By Jennifer Scott
It’s common to feel nervous about stepping back out into the world if you’ve stayed away for a while. Ease the transition with confidence boosters that enable you to live your best life, personally and professionally. Read on for some pointers from Lustrous Henna.
Set Realistic Goals
Lofty expectations and unclear plans are two of the most common reasons that people are unable to achieve their goals. Give yourself the best chance at success by setting S.M.A.R.T. goals that are characterized by the following parameters:
Specific: Clearly define what you want to accomplish.
Measurable: Establish criteria for evaluating progress.
Attainable: Assess goals that are within your reach based on your abilities and available resources.
Relevant: Goals should improve your life in some way.
Time-Based: Set a fixed start and end date to sustain motivation.
And if you’re a dog owner, you're not the only one who needs to prep. Make sure your pup is ready to get back out there as well. Whole Dog Journal explains that introducing your furry friend to other dogs takes a strategy that includes orchestrating positive greetings, meeting in a neutral setting, and calmly taking a time-out if a fight is about to ensue.
Whatever the case, whether it’s getting used to being around other animals after a period of confinement at home or simply taking a walk around the neighborhood or park, be sure you have a sturdy, well-fitting collar, leash and harness to keep everyone safe and secure. Go online to find helpful pet care advice and product recommendations so you’re both prepared.
Look and Feel Your Best
How you look and how you feel are closely connected. Healthy eating, adequate exercise, and sufficient, high-quality sleep are all key factors to looking and feeling good.
Fruits, vegetables, and legumes provide nutrients that keep your body functioning properly. Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties protect against free radicals and support healthy skin, hair and nails. If you color your hair, be sure to use Saba botanical for the best results. This all-natural hair dye is perfect for those with sensitive skin.
Physical activity promotes strength, balance, and coordination and reduces the risks of serious medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Exercise also boosts energy levels and releases mood-enhancing chemicals. Experts recommend getting 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise per week.
As part of your weekly physical activities, try to get more steps in by walking. Check out a Walk Score map of your area to find the best places to walk. It’s an easy way to find great spots for racking up steps.
The National Institutes of Health points out that restful sleep ensures you can sustain energy and focus throughout the day. Get the best sleep possible using the following tips:
Block out light and background noise.
Put away electronic devices at least one hour before bedtime.
Maintain consistent times for going to bed and waking up.
Use Positive Body Language
The way you carry yourself sends a message about your mood and personality. Slouched shoulders, furrowed brows, and crossed arms suggest that you are stressed or closed off. Exude confidence and warmth by straightening up, pulling your shoulders back, and maintaining eye contact. Also, remember that a smile goes a long way in conveying positivity to yourself and others.
Build the Career You Want
If your current job is a primary source of stress and anxiety, consider the possibility of changing careers. Before determining a path that best aligns with your skills, interests, and values, you can create a stellar and professional-looking resume by utilizing a resume maker available for free online. You can choose from a library of professionally designed resume templates, and then customize your CV by adding your own copy, photos, colors, and images.
Perhaps you’ve dreamed of starting your own business and are now ready for the challenge. Once you’ve settled on a concept, create a business plan that includes these components:
Mission and vision
Business structure
Operations and logistics
Funding sources and needs
Financial projections
Celebrate Your Successes
Achieving your goals is about progress, not perfection. Instagram stories are an easy and effective way to document your progress and remind you of how far you’ve come. Share your successes by choosing a story template and uploading your photos. Get creative with editing. Instagram story templates can help. Change the font type, size, and color. Jazz up your posts with premade designs.
Preparing to venture back out into the world gives you an opportunity to improve your life. Start small, create an eye-catching resume, focus on developing healthy habits and surround yourself with positive forces. Any re-entry anxiety will fade away and you will emerge a strong, confident, and happy person.
Article contributed by Jennifer Scott, Spiritfinder.org
