self-help | Mommy Ramblings

Category Archives: self-help

January 15, 2020 · 7:51 pm

4 things you should prioritize this spring

to do list

Can you believe the winter holiday season is officially over, and the new year is already in full swing? If you’ve already headed back to work, then you might be missing the freedom you had over the Christmas break. Maybe you’re wondering what to do with the limited free time you’re now left with.

With so many little tasks to get sorted, deciding what to prioritize isn’t easy, especially when you only have a weekend to work with. Most would agree that prioritizing the errands or little tasks that will save you time, money and effort in the future should be tackled first, so that’s what we’re going to look at here. Check out my top 4 things you should prioritize this spring.

Getting your AC unit checked

Reaching for your AC unit when it’s baking hot outside, only to find it splutter, choke and fail on you is something no one wants to experience. Especially during the hottest months of the year!

If your AC unit is faulty or not working correctly then get it looked at straight away – for air conditioning repairs in Las Vegas, click the link – if you can’t remember the last time you had it serviced, then get it looked at as soon as possible. Don’t be fooled into thinking you have months to get this sorted, failing to prioritize some simple maintenance could mean you’re stuck on a waiting list for weeks and you may be charged extra for an emergency call out.

Deep cleaning the house

It’s not pleasant and most people would prefer that this wasn’t classed as a priority, but deep cleaning your home will not only give you a deep sense of satisfaction, it’s also beneficial for your physical and mental well being. From dust bunnies to spider webs, cleaning up your home and giving everything from the ceilings to the skirting boards a good scrub will make your living arrangements much more pleasant and make your home feel fresh and ready for the new year ahead.

Removing the clutter

Clutter is not your friend. It’s stressful, unsightly and makes our lives a misery – often without us knowing it! Believe it or not, decluttering your home doesn’t mean getting rid of all the sentimental items you cherish – just the ones that you’re hanging on to for no discernible reason at all. Start with your closet and remove anything that you haven’t worn in a year, donate any items to charity or sell them online to make a little profit. Go through each room in turn and you won’t believe the difference it makes to your life.

Moving your body more

We all lead pretty sedentary lifestyles, so getting up and moving our bodies a little more each day is certainly something to prioritize. Exercise doesn’t have to be a grueling session at the gym, it can be a walk around the block on your lunch break or some simple yoga moves at home. Moving your body reduces stress, relieves tension and gets your heart pumping, so make it a priority this year!

exercise class

This is a collaborative post. The ideas and views do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.

How to Handle Toxic Family Members

The holiday season is fast approaching, and that can only mean one thing: Another dinner where you have to endure Aunt Sue. Try as you might, you can’t seem to find good in this person who shares your bloodline. It’s a sad reality, but family members can be toxic too.

What is a toxic person?

When we talk about toxic people, it goes deeper than your personal feelings. A toxic person is someone who consistently hurts other people with their words or actions. They may even be very charming, but you know you’re going to be sorry if you let yourself get too close. Toxic people are selfish, and they aren’t above lying to get their way.

How to handle toxic people

Fortunately, in most cases, you know when you’re going to see that toxic family member. This gives you some time to prepare. Follow the tips below to help protect yourself from other people’s toxicity.

Give yourself a pep talk – When you know you’re going to see this person, remind yourself not to get sucked into the drama. This person cannot hurt you if you don’t engage.
Consider that they cannot help themselves – Oftentimes, individuals who are considered toxic may have reasons for their behavior. They may suffer from a substance abuse disorder (1 in 8 Americans are reported alcoholics), or they may have a personality disorder, such as narcissism. You can forgive them for how they have hurt you in the past, but this doesn’t mean you should let them hurt you again.
Keep contact to a minimum – Avoid talking to this person as much as possible. Try taking the seat furthest away and think of reasons to excuse yourself when this person approaches you. If this person calls or texts you, don’t respond. You don’t need to explain yourself to a toxic person. It’s better to keep your own sanity than to appear polite. This person will eventually take your hint.
Avoid sharing personal information – The biggest problem with toxic people is that they can seem endearing. If you get stuck talking to this person, keep reminding yourself to share as little as possible. Any personal information you share may be used against you at a later time.
Don’t let anyone make you feel small – Toxic people are very good at making you feel like you have to defend yourself. They may spread lies or half-truths about you to others, and you’re left feeling like you have to make up for something. Don’t fall into the trap. Whatever it is, let it go. If someone changes their opinion of you based on hearsay, that’s their problem.

When you know how to handle toxic family members, there’s no need to stress about the encounter. You’re above all of their nonsense, and you’re going to show that by removing yourself from the drama. The more you engage, the deeper you fall into their trap. It may seem gratifying to expose a toxic person, but you’ll likely be sorry you even spent the effort. Walk away with your head held high. After all, you’re not the one who is toxic.