Author: Sarah Barkley

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Health Home

How to Make Your Home Space Healthier

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Your home might be comfy, cozy, and decorated to your tastes, which are all important, but how healthy is it? Many of us unknowingly live in spaces that are less than ideal for our well-being. If that’s a shock to hear, then don’t worry because you can turn things around, starting with the following tasks to make your home healthier.

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1. Kick Out the Chemical Culprits

Have you ever read the ingredients on your household cleaners and felt like you were deciphering an alien language? Many conventional cleaning products are loaded with harsh chemicals that can linger in the air and irritate your nose, eyes, and lungs. Opt for greener, non-toxic alternatives—or better yet, whip up your own with common pantry staples like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Your lungs (and your wallet) will thank you.

2. Embrace Fresh Air

If you’re the type to keep your windows sealed tighter than a bank vault, consider cracking one open now and then. Proper ventilation keeps indoor air from getting stale and helps flush out allergens, pollutants, and lingering smells from last night’s garlic-heavy dinner. On days when the weather behaves (or at least isn’t throwing a tornado your way), let that breeze flow through and refresh your space.

3. Declutter Your Way to Zen to Make Your Home Healthier

Ever notice how a messy room affects your mood—and not in a good way? Clutter can be stressful and collect dust faster than your friendly neighborhood spider can spin a web. Take a day (or an hour, if that’s all you can handle) to sort through those piles of old magazines, mismatched socks, and knickknacks you haven’t glanced at in years. Donation boxes are your best friend here. Simplify your surroundings, and you’ll instantly feel like you can breathe easier—both figuratively and literally.

4. Pet Patrol: Keep Fur and Dander in Check

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We all adore our furry friends, but let’s face it, they contribute to the dust, dander, and mysterious smells circulating your home. Regular grooming sessions, vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and washing pet bedding can help keep the fluff under control. Plus, if you can’t remember what color your couch originally was, maybe it’s time to bring out the lint roller.

5. Banishing the Damp Demons (Yes, Mold!)

Ah, mold—the unwelcome houseguest that thrives in damp corners and can seriously mess with indoor air quality. Whether it’s lurking behind your bathroom tiles or growing under a leaky sink, mold isn’t just ugly; it can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. Routine checks and proper mold removal (or prevention) are crucial. Address leaks pronto, keep your humidity levels in check with a dehumidifier, and if you suspect a bigger problem, call in the pros to ensure you’re not sharing your home with a stealthy fungus army.

6. Go Green—Literally

Houseplants aren’t just pretty; they can also help purify the air by soaking up toxins and pumping out fresh oxygen. Whether you choose a snake plant, peace lily, or the ever-so-forgiving pothos, a bit of greenery goes a long way in boosting your home’s health factor. Just don’t drown them or forget to water them altogether—balance is key!

Recap: Make your home healthier

Your home should always be good for your health, and now it can be! Do you have any other tips to add? Leave a comment and let us know.

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Home

Five Areas In The Home To Maintain To Save Money

Key areas around the home need your attention, and having a home maintenance checklist can help you remember what you need to do. When you maintain your home, it keeps it in good condition and can save you money in the long run.

Regardless of how much time you have to spare, the quality of your home, and what you need to do currently, here are five areas in the home to maintain to save yourself some money.

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Roof maintenance and repair

A big money saver when it comes to preventative care of the property is your roof. The roof is probably one of the most important parts of the home to maintain because it protects the rest of the property and residents from the elements.

You’d be a soggy mess without the roof, so stay on top of any maintenance and repair work. Annual visits from roofing contractors will help you keep on top of any fixes or repairs, as well as check the current health of the roof. 

White goods

White goods such as your fridge, freezer, washing machine, and dishwasher are all good to keep in mind when it comes to saving yourself money. You want these white goods appliances to last for as long as possible because that way, you get the most out of them for your money.

Be mindful of your white goods and when they last got checked over. If it’s been a while, this might be a good time to get them checked. Then, you can fix anything that needs attention and replace any that might be on their way out anyway.

Pest control

Many areas can be affected by pests, which is why it’s worth including in this list. If you’re not staying on top of pests, it’ll lead to damage to your property and cause an uncomfortable living situation.

That’s why it’s a good idea to hire a pest control service to check for any problem areas that might encourage pests to enter. 

Windows and doors

Windows and doors are fairly durable parts of the home. But, over time, like the roof, they have a shelf life. That’s why it’s good to keep on top of window and door maintenance so they last as long as possible. 

Replacing windows and doors isn’t a cheap expense either, so it’s worthwhile maintenance to do.

Yard maintenance

Yard maintenance is a helpful way to keep the exterior of your home in good condition. It is often ignored or forgotten about when it comes to home maintenance, though. Stay on top of the odd jobs and be mindful of any larger issues that need fixing.

Recap: Maintain your home

These tips will hopefully help keep your home in good condition and maintained to save money this year.

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Home

When Disaster Strikes: What To Do When There’s Something Wrong With Your Home

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A disaster in the home is one of the worst things to have to go through. Your safe space has been affected by something that damaged your property and changed how secure it is. It’s an absolute nightmare to try and deal with, and even if you’ve got an emergency fund and you’ve been through preparedness drills, damage at home will still impact you. 

The key is to try not to panic, but that’s always easier said than done. If you have a family to think about, the panic will likely rise and feel overwhelming and uncontrollable! But, when your home has been hit by a disaster, whether internal or external, there’s always something to focus on. 

That’s what we’re going to go through today. When there’s something wrong with your home, knowing what to do next will minimize the long-term damage to the structure — and your mental and physical health. As such, check out the list below and keep the advice in mind for the future. 

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Leave if You Need to

This should always be the first step in your disaster plan. If you need to, get out of the house and make sure every member of your family is accounted for. 

Even during disasters caused by seemingly minor things, such as a burst pipe behind the toilet in the bathroom, you may need to get out of the way at some point. 

After all, when a plumber comes to fix the issue, they may discover something else is at play. It’s common to find substances in your home’s makeup that could be dangerous to breathe in, such as asbestos. 

If something like that occurs, the best thing to do is leave and go somewhere safe until the problem gets resolved. 

Remove Valuables if There is Damage to Your Home

If you have valuables on the property and it’s safe to go back for them, be sure to remove them from the area affected by the issue.

Don’t worry if this isn’t possible – most valuables are covered under contents insurance if you have it (and home insurance if you’ve bought the right level of coverage). 

Most people want to save expensive everyday items, like a phone or tablet. But, many also like to ensure their sentimental items are safe. These can include photos of your loved ones or things inherited from a relative who passed away. 

If you can’t remove them in time without putting yourself in danger, consider keeping them in a safe place within the home. For example, putting any photos you can’t print off again in a sealable, waterproof bag.

Assess How Deep the Damage Goes

You might not be an expert on water damage or structural issues, but you are an expert on how your home usually looks and behaves! As such, you’re likely to know when a problem has penetrated further into your property. 

Assessing how deep the damage goes is often key to repairing it properly. Mention this to any repair people you call. It may cost extra to check, but it’s much better to be safe and sure. 

Get a Repair Quote

Now that you know what got damaged and if there are any problems elsewhere in your home, get a quote from a company that can provide a fast and efficient repair service. 

Even though your home is in an emergency state, don’t get pressured into paying something that’s over budget. If you have an emergency fund, it’s OK to use it to fix up the house. But, if you don’t, make sure you shop around for repair quotes first. 

You can do this very easily and quickly using the internet. Many companies will let you know that they have free quotes available. Rely on these and collect a few. 

Say your roof caved in after a storm blew a tree into it — you’ll be able to find a website offering a free roof repair quote without much trouble. Be sure to use a local company for the best chance to book the job ASAP. 

Double Check Your Insurance

Most homeowners will have a home insurance policy, and most will have both a home and a contents insurance policy. You can rely on both during a disaster but double-check the actual terms of the coverage you’ve paid for. 

Namely, look for a term like ‘home emergency coverage’, and see if it applies to your plan. It indicates you have coverage for internal problems and external disasters and can claim on the insurance if trouble strikes.  

Of course, if there’s a fire anywhere in your home, you should be covered regardless. You won’t need any special coverage included with the base plan you’ve invested in. 

Home Emergencies: Preparing for the Worst

If there’s something wrong with your home, make sure you’re safe first. Then, make sure anything valuable has been removed and put somewhere safe, too. If you can, try to assess the extent of the damage, where it’s coming from, and if any deeper issues are at play. 

Sometimes, a flooded basement isn’t just a flooded basement; it may be a burst sewer pipe and/or a cracked foundation. 

Recap: What to do if there is damage at home

Above all, breathe through the panic and act quickly yet efficiently. If you need a repair ASAP, contact a service that’s capable of delivering. Try to work with companies that provide instant quotes that tell you about the cost in advance.

And remember, you’ve got insurance. Dig out your policy and see what’s covered. Even if the repair work is expensive, or you lose something valuable along the way, you could get a payout that’ll save the day.

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Finances

Handling Financial Problems Like a Pro

We all have money issues sometimes. But what sets people apart is how they deal with them. You can become severely stressed when finances are tight, or learn about handling financial issues like a pro to ensure you don’t let the stress and worry overwhelm you. The choice is yours, but learning to handle financial problems can ease your mind and help you find a solution.

handle financial problems

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Take Out a Small Loan

Sometimes, stuff happens that you didn’t expect. Rather than burying your head in the sand, it’s best to face money and life problems head-on. From emergency car repairs to medical expenses, there’s so much that can get thrown at you. However, the costs aren’t always as bad as you think, and a small $700 loan can be enough to dig you out of a hole. Smaller loans are much easier to repay and ease the stress of debt over something minor.

Budget and Prioritize Expenses

One of the easiest ways to reign in your money problems is with a budget. But how do you do this? A budget should aim to prioritize where your money goes. You can use a spreadsheet, app, or notepad to list income and expenditure. Work what you have left after deducting expenses from your income. Then, you can remove unnecessary expenses one by one. Leave room for costs such as food, clothing, and utilities while removing costs you don’t need. 

Handling Financial Problems with Apps

Apps are useful for just about anything, including money management. On average, smartphone users use around 10 apps per day, and there are many apps, including taking care of your mind and body, gaming, and, of course, financial management. Free apps are available for budgeting. But, paid apps such as Quickbooks offer more features, such as connecting to your bank account. This means it will add income and expenses automatically.

Explore Extra Income Opportunities

Exploring extra income opportunities is easier said than done, but a great way to handle money issues is to find more of it. No one is suggesting taking on an extra job. But you can create wealth opportunities in various ways. You can sell anything you don’t need, or you can consider a side hustle.

A side hustle can range from simple, online tasks such as taking surveys to skilled work like AI training. There’s also blogging, freelance work, or opening an Etsy shop. Even if your side hustle only pays a little, the small amounts add up to substantial income over time, making a difference and allowing you to indulge in passion projects.

Consult a Professional Advisor

Not everyone is great at managing money, and some people are actually pretty bad at it. Sinking into a money pit can cause a world of misery, but it is almost always unnecessary and not as bad as you might think. Consulting with a professional is recommended if you struggle to understand and manage your finances. A credit counselor can help you create a budget and payment plan, and a financial advisor can help you develop a solid long-term strategy. 

Recap: Handle Financial Problems

Taking out a small loan is a low-risk method of handling financial problems like a pro. Apps such as Quickbooks offer unique features for managing income and expenditure. If you are struggling, experts can help, such as credit counselors and financial advisors. Remember, when you handle financial problems responsibly, you can get yourself out of the situation and move forward.

Categories
Mental Health Parenting

How To Reclaim Your Identity After Motherhood

Being a mother is life-changing, albeit in a messy and potentially overwhelming (at times) way, and the shift can be a big one. After all, one minute you’re your own person with your own hobbies, career, and ultimately your own sense of self, and the next, you’re someone’s entire world, and you’re needed more than ever. That’s an incredible thing, but it’s also something that can mean some mothers forget who they were before motherhood. Being a mother is a big part of your identity, but it’s not everything, and you need to allow the other parts of you out at times as well. It doesn’t take long for many to wonder how you can find yourself again after becoming a mom.

So, how do you reclaim your identity after years (or even months) or putting everyone else first? How do you reconnect with the person you were before or perhaps even discover who you’ve become? Well, one thing you don’t have to do is wait until the kids grow up and move out – you can start reclaiming your identity right now, and here are some ways to do it. Keep reading to find out more. 

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Remember What You Used To Love 

Before kids, what was it that made you light up and smile? It could have been anything — painting, dancing, writing, walking in nature, exercising at the gym, going to the theatre by yourself… Maybe you loved road trips, trying new restaurants, or binge-watching true crime documentaries. It doesn’t matter what it was, you’ve just got to remember it. 

Then, consider the last time you did something like that just because it made you happy instead of because it was on your long to-do list or someone else asked you to help them. Was it a while ago? More than likely. It can stand in the way when you want to find yourself again after becoming a mom.

With all that in mind, you can start to add those fun things back into your life. By starting small, like picking just one thing to begin with, you’ll be able to find space for it, even if it’s just a few minutes a day at the beginning. Taking a little bit of time to do something for yourself when you don’t have to be mom for a bit can make all the difference and prove that you’re still you. 

Stop Feeling Guilty 

Mom guilt is real, and it’s relentless. The moment you decide to do something for yourself, that little voice in your head tells you it’s selfish and you should be doing something for the kids instead — it’s your job as a mom, after all. 

But the truth is that taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you can’t also take care of your children, and in fact, by being yourself once in a while – ideally regularly – you’ll be a happier, calmer, more productive parent when you’re around your children, and that’ll benefit everyone. Plus, when you prioritize your well-being, it’s a great lesson for the kids because it shows them they should do the same. It also teaches them they can tell you what they’re feeling and learn how to make themselves feel better. It’s a fantastic life lesson to learn as early as possible. 

The point is, if you wait until everything else gets done before you give yourself a break, you’ll never end up taking a break — and remember, the laundry, dishes, vacuuming, or anything else you think you have to do right now can wait but your mental and physical health and happiness can’t. Or shouldn’t, at the very least. 

Get Dressed For Yourself Again

It’s amazing how much our clothing choices impact how we feel. If you’re stuck wearing the same old leggings and oversized t-shirts and you stick your hair in a messy bun not because you like the look (and some people will, which is great) but because it’s the easy route and you think there’s no point in doing anything else, you might be setting yourself up to feel bad. And you won’t even realize it’s you doing it. 

Maybe it’s actually time for a bit of a wardrobe refresh. Remember, this isn’t about pleasing anyone else or looking a certain part — it’s about wearing things that make you feel good. That could be a good pair of jeans that fit well or a lovely dress that makes you feel attractive. Or, it could even just be taking a moment to put on lipstick and earrings, it’s these little things that make a big difference in how you feel, which makes a big difference in your overall attitude and outlook on life. 

Find A Passion Project to Find Yourself Again After Becoming a Mom

Motherhood can sometimes make it feel as though your life revolves around what everyone else wants and needs, and it can be hard to move away from that mindset. However, one of the best ways to reclaim your identity is to start something entirely for you. 

That could be learning a new skill, starting a blog, taking an online course, or even starting a side hustle business (which could grow over time or stay small depending on your ultimate goals). Whatever it is, make sure it’s just for you. 

Having a personal project gives you something to get excited about outside of your job as a mother, and it can also be something that reminds you of your dreams, talents, and ambitions, which can be an extra helping hand to remind you of who you are and help you get back on that path. After all, although you might not like to think about it right now, at some point, the kids will have their own lives, and you’ll need to do something that isn’t all about them. You might as well start putting things in place now rather than scrambling to find something later in life. 

Prioritize Your Mental And Physical Health 

As a mother, it’s easy (and probably feels natural) to put yourself last. But, if you’re running on empty, you’re really not helping anyone. That’s why taking care of your mind and body isn’t selfish — it’s vital. 

You can start by getting enough sleep, moving your body in ways that work for you and that you enjoy, and eating healthy meals at the right times instead of just grabbing quick snacks on the go because you have too much to do. You don’t have to join a sports team or spend hours at the gym because there are tons of options when it comes to exercise.

And if stress, anxiety, or exhaustion are getting too much, don’t be afraid to ask for help, including professional help — there’s no shame in it, and it could be what makes your life so much better. You could try therapy, self-care, or even explore alternative wellness options — many experts in medical marijuana can tell you all about the potential benefits of using it, especially when it comes to managing stress, relieving anxiety, and essentially improving your overall mental health. Self-care comes in many forms, so exploring the various options helps you find something that works for you. 

Final Thoughts: Find yourself again after becoming a mom

It’s true that motherhood changes you, but it doesn’t have to stop you from being you. You can still be an amazing mom and enjoy your own identity, dreams, and passions. In fact, the two go hand in hand. Consider some of these ideas to find yourself again after becoming a mom.

Do you have any other tips to offer? Leave a comment and let us know.

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Home

Why Hire a Contractor for Your Home Renovation

construction, contractor, hire a contractor

A home renovation is a big job, especially if you’ve been planning one for a while. Whether it’s adding an extension to your house or renovating the roof, you should consider that there are some jobs out there that you really shouldn’t do yourself. Everybody loves a bit of DIY, like painting the walls, but you really should hire a contractor when it comes to construction.

Contractors have professional connections and experience that can do a better job than any DIY passion you may have. A contractor is also going to be responsible for securing any permits, handling any different supplies and deliveries, and hiring any subcontractors for the division of your project. Here are the top reasons you should have a good contractor on site.

construction, contractor, hire a contractor
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1. Expert knowledge in action

Construction is not the easiest thing, and it’s not as simple as it may appear. Every architectural project has intricacies that can be overwhelming for you, but a general contractor deals with these daily. You can assume that contractors know what they’re doing because that’s what they’re qualified to do. Since you’re not a contractor, you should be hiring help, even if it’s an expense you didn’t initially foresee.

2. They have connections

Are you going to go to your local hardware store to buy everything for a renovation? Or, will you ask an expert where to get the best prices and the best materials? Typically, contractors are an asset to construction and renovations because they are connected to a huge pool of professionals in various construction fields. If you need plumbing work, your contractor can help, or if you need new electricals, they’ll be able to recommend an expert.

3. They’ll save you both time and money

The potential to see your renovation come to life is exciting, but you don’t want to get too quickly ahead of yourself. Contractors are there to help you to save time and to save money. They can complete your build in no time at all. Plus, the materials won’t be as expensive as they would have if you got them yourself. They’ll be able to handle all of your supplies, identify quality materials, and negotiate prices for them. They’ll also be able to tell you if the materials are correct for your type of renovation.

4. They can secure licenses and permits

Some renovations require you to ask permission before you make alterations. Contractors can help you secure these permits so that you can have the renovation you want without having to tear it all down later or handle a lawsuit.

Recap: Hire a contractor

Hiring a contractor can make your renovations easier, and you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing it’ll all be taken care of for you. Have you had to hire a contractor for any other home improvement projects? If so, leave a comment and tell us how they made the process easier!

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Home

Is Your Home As Safe As You Think It Is?

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Is your home as safe as you think it is? When you’re in your home, you feel safe and comfortable, right? But, have you actually taken precautions to ensure your home is truly protected? The likelihood is that you haven’t, or at least not to the extent you need to. So, let’s explore some key issues to make sure you fully protect your home from danger.

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Check Your Windows

If you are trying to keep your home safe, one major thing you need to keep on top of is the condition of your windows. Over time, your windows can lose their seal and weaken, allowing intruders to enter or natural disasters to break them. You may notice weak windows more during winter as the cold air flows through them. Contact your local window company if you think you could benefit from brand-new window installation. They can advise you on what you need and what costs may be involved. 

Leaking Roof

Next, you should make sure to think about an issue with a leaking roof. A problem with a leaking roof can be a disaster because, eventually, it will impact the overall structural integrity of your home. If you’re worried about this, speak to a professional roofer. They can check your home for a hole in your roof, a common occurrence after a storm or weather issue.

You should also keep the roof in mind if you want to purchase an older home because roof problems are more likely to occur, particularly if they haven’t had repairs in over a decade. 

Don’t forget that a leaking roof can also bring other issues, including an infestation, bringing us neatly to our next point. 

Infestation 

Finally, there can sometimes be hidden dangers lurking around your home. If you begin to notice damaged walls, floors, or furniture, you may have an infestation hiding somewhere in your home. It can be detrimental to your home because the damage is often already done before anyone notices anything. Check out what insects or animals are in your area so you know the signs to look for. For instance, poisonous spiders can hide in attic spaces and cracks in the wall. Any serious problems need experts, especially if you need to have your home fumigated. 

We hope this gives you a more solid understanding of whether or not your home is as safe as you think. If it’s not, you could start making changes right now. Making changes to your home doesn’t have to be difficult, but the longer you leave the issues to fester, the more difficult it can be to get them sorted.

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Books Parenting

Top 4 Picture Books for Family Reading Fun in February 2025

reading together

One of my favorite things to do with my kids is read books together. I read to them, they read to me, sometimes they read to each other. Books are a huge part of our life, even if getting my oldest to read is like pulling teeth sometimes. Our favorite books change often, and right now we have an awesome rotation that we love. With reading month coming up, I figured it was a perfect time to share!

This post includes the picture books we love right now, but we also love chapter books. Check back for a post on our favorite chapter books soon!

*This post contains affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.*

The Adventures of Barkley: A Mischievous Puppy by Candice Harrison

books to read together, The Adventures of Barkley: A Mischievous Puppy

My kids and I are obsessed with this book — and not only because the dog, Barkley, shares our name! The Adventures of Barkley is adorable and it’s so fun to follow Barkley and see what he’s up to. Living life through the eyes of a dog is exciting and offers a new perspective

The Hiccupotamus by Aaron Zenz

books to read together, The Hiccupotamus

This book is so cute, and it had us giggling throughout the story. You can also buy a hippopotamus stuffy to go with it, making it the perfect gift for kids. The Hiccupotamus is written by a Michigan author, making it even more dear to my heart.

Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be by Charlotte Foltz Jones

Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be, books to read together

Teaching out kids that mistakes are okay is one of the most important things we can do for them. Mistakes That Worked clarifies how many amazing things have come from mistakes! We love taking turns reading about the inventions.

My Magical Choices by Becky Cummings

The Magic of Me: My Magical Choices, books to read together

Our kids should always know they have choices, and this book is an awesome reminder. My Magical Choices teaches the impact of good choices everyday, and it has 13 positive “I choose” statements to encourage kids to be responsible for what they do, how they handle emotions, and how they treat others.

Recap: Books to read together as a family

Reading together is important — it not only helps your child become a better reader, but it also promotes a stronger bond as a family unit along with many other benefits. What books are you reading with your kids right now? Leave a comment and share with us!

Categories
Health Life

How to Bounce Back after an Injury

runner, how to heal after an injury, person warming up for a run

You’re likely to experience an injury at some point if you’re an active person and always moving your body. Injuries can range from a broken bone to a pulled muscle. Either way, it doesn’t matter how you experienced your injury — either way, you need to make sure that you don’t put yourself at too much risk. Keep reading to learn tips on how to bounce back after an injury.

how to bounce back after an injury
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A Chance to Grow

One of the first things you need to do is use your injury as a chance to grow. Avoid letting it sideline you and instead, use it as a chance to grow and be better than before. You may also want to use it as a time to build your conditioning.

Keep training if you are an athlete. If you focus on things that you can’t do, you’ll develop a negative mindset overall, which is the last thing you need. You may also find that it stops you from making progress, too. If you want to prevent this, focus on yourself and how you can work on being better than you were before your accident.

If your injury isn’t fitness-related, this concept still applies. You can use your injury as a chance to be mentally stronger than before, as this is often a good way to get to where you need to be. If you have experienced an injury that wasn’t your fault, remember, you can get professional help from Javier Villarreal Law Firm. This is a good way for you to find out if you are entitled to compensation while making sure that you have the right person helping you to fight your case.

Invest in Healthy Eating

You also need to make sure that you’re investing in healthy eating if you can. Spend your time looking for new recipes and make sure to continually try new ingredients. Prep batches of healthy snacks and utilize whatever you can to return to your usual routine. If you have never tried to work on your mindset, then now is the time to start.

Visualize Through Meditation

Try and visualize things and find out what you can achieve through meditation. If you can do this and rest and recover from your workouts, you’ll notice a huge boost to your mental health. Although injuries and setbacks can happen, and even though they can be devastating, you need to make sure that you take the right approach and have the right perspective to get through it.

Final Thoughts: How to Bounce Back After an Injury

You also need to go slowly. Don’t rush things, and always train to the best of your ability. The last thing you want is to re-injure yourself, so try and avoid this by taking the time to create a long-term plan you can follow from start to finish.

Categories
Home

Innovative Ways To Maximize Home Safety And Security

Home Safety and Security

We all want to feel safe and secure in our homes, but this is not always a given. Maximizing home security and safety can provide peace of mind while reducing risks. This guide highlights some effective steps to ensure you feel safe in your own home. 

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Add deterrents

Deterrents can scare thieves off and make your property a less appealing target. If a burglar spots a house with cameras or gates that are hard to scale, they may think twice about trying to breach its defenses. Adding deterrents is one of the best ways to keep your home safe. There are many ways to deter opportunists, including external fencing, electric gates, outdoor lighting, alarms, CCTV cameras, and warning signs, such as ‘Beware of the dog.’ You don’t have to spend a fortune. Choose solutions that cater to your budget. Less expensive options include signage, basic burglar alarms, and outdoor gates and lights. 

Hide expensive, dangerous, and sought-after items away

Hiding expensive, dangerous, and sought-after items away can help you increase safety and security. Adding a safe, installing vault doors, or using lockable cupboards and drawers can help lower the risk of burglaries and accidents at home. Examples of items you might want to keep hidden behind lock and key include jewelry, cash, anything that could be a weapon, and expensive collectibles. 

Update your security system

Security systems have come a long way in a relatively short time. Today, the options available to home and business owners are incredible. Smart systems are ideal for people who travel frequently or spend long periods out of the house, for example, for work. With a modern security system, you can control it remotely and keep tabs on the property via your phone or tablet. You can watch camera footage, adjust security settings, and monitor entry points at the touch of a button. It’s also an excellent idea to explore upgrades and updates, such as new locks, cameras, and alarms.

Carry out a risk assessment

Understanding risks and hazards can help you improve home safety and security. For security purposes, identify weaknesses, such as broken or old windows and doors and outdated locking systems. For safety, pinpoint dangers and draw up a to-do list. Examples of common problems include slip, trip and fall hazards, damaged flooring, poor lighting, fire hazards, and access to products or items that could cause choking or poisoning. Once you’ve done a risk assessment of each room, work through your list of jobs, tackling the most dangerous first. If you don’t have much time or lack the necessary skills or expertise, seek professional advice. 

Recap: Home Safety and Security

We would all love to feel safe and secure at home, but accidents can happen anytime, and any property can be targeted. Boosting safety and security can give you peace of mind, lower risks, and help you protect your home and family. Key steps include adding deterrents, updating your home security systems, carrying out regular risk assessments, and eliminating hazards and dangers.