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Why Not Me?

Why Not Me?

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A Self-Guide to Believing You Can Achieve—No Matter What Life Throws at You

Let’s get real for a second.

Life doesn’t always hand you the perfect script. Sometimes it hands you chaos, curveballs and a whole lot of “Why me?” moments. But here’s the shift:

What if you asked, “Why not me?”

That question changes everything. It moves you from self-pity to self-power. From stuck to unstoppable.

1. You Are Not Your Circumstances

You are not your job title, your past mistakes, your bank account or the people who didn’t believe in you.

You are potential. Power. Purpose.

Your story is still being written—so pick up the pen and write away Rakstars. 

2. The Dream is Yours for a Reason

You didn’t randomly wake up with a dream in your heart.
That vision? That fire? That whisper of “there’s more for me”?

It’s yours because you’re meant to chase it.
Own it. Pursue it like your life depends on it—because the best version of you does.

3. Resilience is Your Superpower

Every setback is a setup.
Every “no” is making room for a bigger “yes.”

Every tear, every lesson, every late night grinding when no one’s watching—it’s shaping you into someone unstoppable.

4. Someone Out There is Waiting for You

Your story, your voice, your dream—it matters.
There’s someone who needs your light, your courage, your example.
You showing up for you gives someone else permission to believe in themselves.

So next time life hits you with the doubt and the fear: 

Rise tall.
Take a deep breath.
Look in the mirror and say:
“Why NOT me?”

Because you’re not just capable.
You’re chosen.
You’re ready.
You’re a Rakstar—and Rakstars rise. 🌟

Why Not Me?
Photo by Anna Tarazevich

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Spring Reset: How to Get Back on Track (Without the Guilt)

Spring Reset: How to Get Back on Track (Without the Guilt)

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Let’s be honest: the new year started strong. You had goals. A fresh planner. Big energy.

But then life happened.
Work got busy. You got tired. And your routine? It kinda disappeared.

Here’s the truth:
You didn’t fail. You’re just human.

And lucky for us, spring is the perfect time to hit reset. More light, more energy, more motivation to grow into the version of yourself you actually want to be.

January may come with fresh planners and audacious goals, but by March? Life has usually had other plans. Work gets hectic, your motivation dips and suddenly that “New year, New me” energy has turned into “just trying to keep up.” Cue the motivational music.

But here’s the good news—spring is the real new beginning. Nature’s hitting reset and you can too.

Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Start Over

Unlike the cold, dark gloomy days of winter, spring brings light, warmth and an abundance of energy. It’s the season of growth, renewal and the start of blooming flowers, which makes it the perfect time to realign with your goals and routines. You’re not behind—you’re just getting started again and that’s okay Rakstars. 

Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Audit your goals (without judgment)

Ask yourself: Do these goals still serve me?
If not, let them go. No shame. Just space for what does matter.

Start by checking in with your goals. Not to upset yourself, but to assess what’s still important. Some goals might not even fit your life anymore (life changes) and that’s normal. Give yourself permission to let those go. Find new goals and don’t be so hard on yourself. 

2. Simplify your routine

If your morning or evening routine feels overwhelming, simplify it. You don’t need a 12-step regimen. Start with 1 or 2 habits that actually make you feel grounded, like 10 minutes of movement, journaling or just getting to bed on time. Small changes accumulate over time and before you know it you will get there. 


Stop trying to do everything. Focus on 1–2 habits that make you feel grounded, like:

  • Moving your body for 10 minutes
  • Journaling a few thoughts each morning
  • Getting to bed 30 minutes earlier (stop doom scrolling)                           

3. Think in Mini Goals

Instead of giant year-long resolutions, set 30-day intentions. It’s less pressure and more motivating. Want to get back into reading? Try 10 pages a day for a month. Thinking of working out again? Aim for 3 days a week in April and see how you feel.

Swap “yearly resolutions” for 30-day intentions.
Less pressure, more momentum.

4. Refresh your space + mindset (focus on the new season)

Spring is the time to freshen up your space and your schedule. Try meal-prepping lighter, seasonal foods. Open the windows, clear the clutter (stuff we think we need but don’t – it’s time to let it go) and make room—physically and mentally—for what’s next (great things are coming, we can feel it).


Open the windows. Tidy up. Eat seasonal foods. Make space—physically and mentally—for the new version of you. That’s right, Rakstar! We see you becoming the best version of yourself!

5. Forgive the detour

Falling off track doesn’t mean giving up. Resetting is a form of self-trust.

The truth is, progress isn’t linear. You might have been on track in January and derailed by February. Life happens. Resetting isn’t failure—it’s resilience. You are the protagonist of your story and just like any hero – setbacks occur, so don’t get upset with yourself. 

 

Remember Rakstars

You don’t need to wait until next January to try again.
Spring is your fresh start. Take the first step and let it grow from there.

Spring is your invitation to reconnect with your goals, your routine and yourself. Small steps count. So open a window, breathe in that fresh air and take the first one.

You’ve got time. You’ve got space. You’ve got this Rakstars.

Spring Reset: How to Get Back on Track (Without the Guilt)
Photo by Yessi Trex

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The Rakstar Top 10 mantras we swear by

Top 10 Mantras to Live By for Success, Confidence and Our Inner Peace

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Mantras are powerful affirmations that shape your mindset, boost confidence  and bring a sense of calm to your daily life. Whether you’re seeking motivation, clarity, or resilience, the right mantra can be a game-changer. So why not try it, Rakstars!

Here are 10 mantras we swear by—use them daily and watch how they shift your energy and transform your mindset!

1. “I am becoming the best version of myself every day.”

Growth is a journey, not a destination. This mantra reminds you to embrace progress over perfection and celebrate small wins along the way.

2. “Everything I desire is already on its way to me.”

This affirmation reinforces the power of manifestation and abundance. Believe that the opportunities, success and happiness you seek are already aligning for you.

3. “I release what I cannot control and focus on what I can.”

Let go of unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters. This mantra helps shift your energy from worry to action.

4. “I radiate confidence, self-love and positive energy.”

Your thoughts shape your reality—so why not affirm confidence and joy? Repeat this daily to embody self-assurance and attract positivity.

5. “I am resilient, strong and capable of handling anything.”

Tough days happen, but your mindset determines how you overcome them. This mantra reminds you that you have the strength to face challenges head-on.

6. “I am worthy of success, love and happiness.”

You don’t need to earn your worthiness—it’s already yours. You are a Rakstar! Use this mantra to silence self-doubt and embrace the abundance you deserve.

7. “I choose peace over worry, joy over fear and love over doubt.”

This mantra is all about intentional choices. Every moment, you have the power to shift your mindset toward positivity.

8. “Success flows to me effortlessly because I take aligned action.”

Hard work is important, but so is working with intention. This mantra reminds you that when you take action with purpose, success follows.

9. “I trust the timing of my life and embrace the journey.”

Patience is key. Instead of rushing the process, trust that everything is unfolding exactly as it should.

10. “I wake up every day with purpose, gratitude and excitement.”

Your morning mindset shapes your entire day. Start with this mantra to set a powerful, positive tone for everything that follows.

Remember Rakstars,

Mantras are more than just words—they’re a mindset shift. Repeat these daily, write them in your journal, or set them as reminders on your phone.

Which mantra resonates with you the most? Let us know! Reach out via email or the Contact Us Page! 

✨

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5 Game-Changing Lessons I Learned from Vanderpump Rules That Will Transform Your Life

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When you think of reality TV, lessons about life might not be the first thing that comes to mind but rather the fights, unpredictable outcomes and a whole lot of gossip. You know you are in for a treat! Vanderpump Rules is one of those shows that you know you love but amidst the secrets and lies, friendship drama and unforgettable moments, hot dishes of life lessons are served. Over the many many seasons, here are the top 5 valuable lessons that I’ve learnt from the cast that resonate beyond the screen. Who knew that watching reality TV can be so educational.

Because we’re good as gold!

Because we’re good as gold!

1. Be Unapologetically You

Yes, that’s right. Be you but without the violence! One of the most memorable scenes in Vanderpump Rules is when Stassi confronts Kristen and ends up slapping her. While the slap itself became infamous, the moment is something that lies much deeper in the surface: the importance of being unapologetically true to oneself. Stassi’s actions, though extreme (we do not agree with the action taken), reflected her commitment to her own values and feelings. She wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself, even though it was done in a very harsh way.

However, the main point taken from this – hopefully no one is in the same situation as Kristen and Stassi were, but it’s crucial to embrace who you are without fear of judgment. When you are authentic to yourself, this attracts the right people and opportunities into your life. Just like Stassi, who never ever shies away from expressing herself, we too can find power in our own identities. It’s about knowing your worth, what you stand for and not letting anyone dim your light. Remember you are ambient!

Stassi Schroeder: Stassi has always been known for saying what she strongly believes in as well as her no-nonsense attitude. She’s unapologetically herself, it doesn’t matter how it’s perceived – she is who she is with love for all things spooky (like her scary birthday parties) or setting up her friends when they have betrayed her. 

Lala Kent: Lala has been unapologetically herself since she joined the show. Lala doesn’t hold back. She will call you out when she believes others are not themselves and are putting on a show persona. She’s so confident that she doesn’t let anyone else’s opinions make or break her.

James Kennedy: Love him or hate him, he says what he says when he says it. With all his mistakes and his constant self-improvement, he is still being himself no matter what. 

Stassi slaps Kristen

 

2. Loyalty is Everything

There is definitely no loyalty when it comes to dating – even partners who seem the strongest – loyalty is not one of their strengths but when it comes to friendships – we can actually see loyalty. Girls trip! Get togethers and a whole lot of hang outs happen through the course of the seasons. One thing we can all agree on, is the camaraderie among the women of Vanderpump Rules is iconic when they are all happy with each other. This sense of loyalty they have to each other takes prominence. It becomes enjoyable to watch when everyone gets along – especially when the Vanderpump girls cheer each other on through thick and thin. Loyalty isn’t just a word—it’s a way of life.

Loyalty is the foundation of a strong relationship whether it’s family, friends, significant others, or colleagues. Taking care and standing with the people you care about even when times get tough helps build trust and strengthens relationships, creating a support system that can weather any storm. 

Lisa Vanderpump’s Loyalty to Her Staff: Lisa Vanderpump has often shown loyalty to her employees even when they face personal issues. She is always there to give them advice, help and even listen to their situations. This has earned her the employee’s respect and loyalty.

Scheana Shay, Ariana Madix, Lala Kent and Katie Maloney support each other: Even though their friendships are not always rainbows and sunshine, they all offered support for Scheana when she gave birth to her daughter Summer Moon. Even Lala and Scheana, who have had disagreements in the past, put all that aside and bonded over their new roles as mothers. 

3. Communicate Clearly

This is the bread and butter of any reality show. Whispers float in the air only to be catched by someone who often manipulates the truth, stretching it out to a vicious gossip floating their boat or need I say yacht (Real Housewives, anyone?). 

In Vanderpump Rules, misunderstandings and drama are the main course of why this show is so addicting. Even the scandals which often arise from a lack of clear communication. It seems like the truth is extinct. Everything is covered with lies. Scandoval! But we are all too familiar with this example. So let’s resort to another prime example when James Kennedy was completely upset after Brock wanted to get married to Scheana during his engagement party with Lala spilling the beans. The situation became even messier with confrontation, leading to hurt feelings and tension.

Lala Kent Hiding Her Relationship: Lala Kent faced constant gossip about her relationship with Randall. She kept it hidden which led to speculation and a whole lot of stares. She had to communicate clearly to the cast about the truth of her relationship as the speculation intensified.

Brittany Confronts Jax About Faith Rumors: When Brittany heard the rumors that Jax had cheated on her with Faith and then heard the recording, she directly confronted him which got her the truth. She didn’t hold back and got the truth, finally. 

This serves as a reminder of the importance of clear and thoughtful communication. When you’re sharing news (important one for that matter) or navigating a certain situation, how you communicate can make all the difference. It’s not just about what you say, but also about how, when and where you say it. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone (everyone!) is on the same page. This lesson can be applied to everything from personal relationships to professional settings. This incident is a reminder on how to avoid unnecessary drama and foster a more positive calm environment.

James Confronts Brock About His Secret Wedding Plans

 

4. Rise Above Challenges

Life isn’t always a smooth sail and Vanderpump Rules proves that. With the ups and downs, scandals and cheaters, the cast faces the most unpredictable shocking discoveries. These moments are a powerful reminder that no matter how tough things get, no matter who’s side anyone is on – we have the strength to rise above our challenges when things get hard. 

Lala’s Sobriety Journey: Lala’s decision to be sober was definitely a significant challenge, even though the group was known to have a good time in a party-heavy environment. She openly discussed her decision and took the right steps to achieve her goal. 

Scheana’s Divorce: Scheana Shay’s divorce from Mike Shay was hard for her. Even though she was still working at SUR and filming the show, she went through a difficult and emotional process.

In our own lives, we’re often faced with difficulties – getting thrown in the mud and stressed out too many times. Whether it’s a personal setback, a professional hurdle or a legal battle, the key is to keep pushing forward. The resilience shown by Scheana and Lala is something we can all learn from. Finding your inner strength to overcome any obstacles. It’s time to focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems, you can rise above the challenge and be the rockstar you were born to be. 

5. Embrace Change

Change (Not what you find in between the cushions of your couch) is a constant theme in Vanderpump Rules. This is evident in the journeys of Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney. After parting ways with the Toms (Tom Sandoval and Tom Schwartz), these two strong women not only embraced change but also thrived in it. Woohoo! Together, they opened a sandwich shop, showing that they are better off solo. 

This shows us that change can be the catalyst for growth and better opportunities but embracing change isn’t easy. It’s hard and it takes time for growth which can be worrisome but all in all – just have to let time run its course and hope for the best. Ariana and Katie’s journey reminds us that when we let go of what no longer serves us, we make room for new and better possibilities. Okay so maybe we are not opening up a sandwich shop or getting the chance to be on Dancing with the stars but change can help us in a career shift, the end of a relationship, or starting a new venture. Embracing change allows us to evolve and transform our lives in ways we never thought we could.

Ariana Madix & Katie Maloney's Sandwich Shop

 

So there you have it Rakstars, Vanderpump Rules, the reality show that’s packed with drama, also offers us lessons that can inspire and teach us in our own lives. From being unapologetically yourself to embracing change, the lessons learnt from this reality show can serve as a guide, reminding us to stay true to ourselves, value loyalty, communicate clearly, rise above challenges and welcome the changes that life inevitably brings. Vanderpump Rules is better than a textbook!

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Calm Energy

Creating Calm Energy

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Creating Calm Energy

In the pace of our fast, often busy, very busy, extremely busy lives, achieving a state of calm can feel like a dream that will never see fruition. The hustle and bustle of everyone’s daily routines whether it’s going to school or work pressures – the never ending demands can leave us yearning for a sense of peace and tranquility – a beach vacation. A feeling where you just want to snuggle up to a good book, read beneath the stars and call it a day. But, in reality, our lives are far different than that of our wants. Rakstars, let’s create calm energy—something that can help us achieve a balanced and harmonious life.

The Essence

What is calm energy? Why do we need to be calm? What is the purpose of calm energy? What does it truly entail? It’s not about suppressing your emotions or becoming a yoga master overnight. Instead, calm energy is all about learning a state of mind that empowers you to live your life while navigating your life’s challenges with a good mindset.

Mastering the Calm Energy

Here are some actionable strategies that can help you master your calm energy:

1. Mindful Mornings: When you wake up and take in that sunshine. Remember to breathe and smile. Meditation or deep breathing exercises can help encapsulate a positive and serene tone for the hours ahead.

 

2. Declutter Your Environment: A messy, cluttered space can often lead to a cluttered mind. Take the time to tidy up your surroundings, creating a sense of calm and order. When everything is organized and placed in the proper spot, it makes life a little easier. Making you keep calm and carry on. 

 

3. The Breath: Deep and intentional breathing can help you throughout your day. This simple practice can serve as a support or a grounding mechanism so you can feel level headed amidst life’s challenges.

 

4. Nature Time: When you delve into natural surroundings, it can help to recharge your inner calm energy. Try taking regular walks in the park or simply find a quiet spot in your garden and sit. Take in the air and breathe and let your mind wonder. It feels good. 

 

5. Digital Detox: Try to spend at least one hour away from any screens. It’s hard these days because you can’t operate anything or do anything without one. Keep it simple. Take a look at your surroundings and just relax. Forget about the pings and the messages and the emails and the new posts. In fact, take a break right now before you read the rest of this post. Here, I will keep a bookmark right here so when you come back from your break you know where you left off.

 

***START HERE***

 

Welcome back, how did you like it? Feel more refreshed! We sure hope you do!

 

It is important to recognize the impact of digital devices on your peace of mind, especially before bedtime. No one wants to think of work before going night night. Limit your screen time so that you can have a more restful and calm night’s sleep.

 

6. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: It is important to prioritize your well-being by living a wholesome lifestyle. Remember Rakstars, this includes nourishing your body with healthy foods, regular workouts, and ensuring you get enough sleep.

 

7. The Gratitude Gift: Create a gratitude journal to shift your focus toward the positive aspects of your life. Sometimes we delve too much in the negative that we forget about us and all the good things that have happened. For example, when you woke up in the morning you had that amazing matcha latte – let’s be grateful to our barista for making it wonderful! Expressing our gratitude can help to foster a sense of calm contentment and appreciation.

So there you have it, Rakstars, the pursuit of calm energy. This is an absolute necessity not a luxury. Try to create inner peace within you, by remembering that you’re not only enhancing and making your life better but also becoming a source of inspiration for those around you.

If you are calm, so will others. You can create a ripple effect of calm and balance creating a better world. Rakstars, are you ready? Share your gift of calm to others.

Calm Energy
Photo by Kelsey Erin Sky

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Bathing bliss - step by step to help relax

Bathing Bliss (Step by Step Guide to Relax)

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View this: the world outside fades away as you step into your personal oasis, a haven of warmth and serenity—your beautiful bathtub. In this haven, time slows down. You find yourself immersed in a soothing blend of relaxation, a good book, a warm drink and dare we say fragrant flower petals. Welcome to Self-Care!

  1. Draw a warm bath, one that’s just the right temperature. Immerse yourself in soothing waters to melt your worries and stressors away. Be a Queen or a King by adding a handful of fragrant rose petals, to create a spa-like ambiance right in your bathroom. You are regal after all.
  2. Choose your escape by selecting a good book to another world. Forget that daily grind. Submerge into a gripping novel, maybe a cozy mystery or a self-help gem—the choice is yours! The best way to make sure those pages do not get wet is to find yourself a waterproof e-reader, like the Kindle Oasis, so you can fully immerse yourself in your literary escape without worrying about water damage.
  3. Sip and Savour this bliss because that’s what a bath is all about. Brew your favourite herbal tea or prepare a rich favourite drink. Consider investing in a spill-proof mug, such as the Yeti Rambler, to ensure your drink stays in the cup.
  4. Luxuriate yourself as you sink into the bath, book in one hand, warm mug in the other and rose petals adrift, close your eyes for a moment. Yes, take a deep breath, feel those stressors of the day start to dissolve. Breathe in the subtle scent of the petals, letting their aroma whisk you away to a peaceful scene.

Links to Your Relaxation Luxuriate

  • Rose Petals: Transform your bathtub into a floral paradise.
  • Kindle Oasis: Your waterproof portal to countless literary adventures.
  • Yeti Rambler: Keep your beverage warm, no spills allowed.

 

The Power of Self-Care

Rakstars, it is important to take time for yourself. Try having a luxurious bath-time ritual. This is an investment in you – your well-being. When you take care of yourself, you can alleviate burnout and stress and be more uniquely yourself. Your productivity soars, your body is rested and you can fly (okay, so maybe that is more of a metaphor – don’t actually try to). This is a  reminder that you deserve moments of self-indulgence. As you soak in the warm water, can you feel yourself nurturing your mind, body and soul.

So Rakstars, when life feels overwhelming, remember that your sanctuary awaits, along with petals, pages and the promise of calm. Let the stressors melt away in the soothing embrace of your bathtub bathing bliss.

Bathing bliss - step by step to help relax
Photo by Monstera Production

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Who are You?

Sorry, do I know you?

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Sorry, do I know you? 

We get it all the time. That feeling of being an imposter. Are we really who we are? Am I really an employee of a well-known company? Am I actually a graduate student? Did they really accept me into the program? Like what? Ah! Pinch Me! 

Am I really doing a presentation in front of the client and partners? No I couldn’t. They are asking me a question. But they are highly competent and more skilled than me. Who would ever want to listen to me? I knew it! I wasn’t good at the presentation. Yep! I’m so silly. I can’t believe I just said that. 

Mean time, in the partner meeting: That was wonderful. They really knew their stuff. Get them to do the presentation with the next client.

Your brain:

I was horrible. I will never be good enough. Did you see those looks? Aw gosh!

When we look at the mirror, who do we really see? You! Well, yourself anyways. Our mind versus who we really are ACT like they are two different people. Your mind plays a game, downplaying your achievements versus your actual accomplishments. In a world of self-apprehension, our thoughts are not necessarily facts, yet since we thought them, they must be. 

Try it! Say to yourself: A banana is orange.

Is your mind convincing yourself that it is? I see you tilting your head to the side to think.

YOUR BRAIN:

Well, if you take a look at it from a different angle and you flip it upside down and yes, when they are grown they are actually orange. Like an orange that’s close to a yellow. Yes, that’s it and then when we go to the grocery store – it automatically becomes yellow. Yes, a banana is orange.

Rakstar, don’t kid yourself. A banana is yellow, sometimes green and sometimes yellow with brown spots. But it will never be orange. 

So our thoughts are not facts. Right? I mean think about it. If you say, the sky will rain lollipops in 2 seconds. 

 

1 second

2 second

 

Did the sky rain lollipops? Nah, I didn’t think so either. 

So why do we self-talk ourselves down? We say to ourselves that we are a fraud, or we can’t do something but in reality we can. Heck Yeah! We can!

Culture and Environments are the living bacteria for our imposter syndrome. When you are in a group of people who don’t seem to validate you for you, you feel like you can’t do something. But in fact, actually, let me tell you a fact, right now, cause I know this is one. 

You can do anything you want to do. It may not be successful, it may not be anywhere near you expect it to be, but you are capable of doing it! Whether you’re lazy like the rest of us or nervous and scared. We all are! It doesn’t make you any different than the rest. It is those who have cheerleaders cheering on in the stands that have the courage to get up and pursue their dreams. But not all of us have those cheerleaders. 

So here we are today! You are reading this. We are your cheerleaders. Rakstars!! You are a Rakstar! We are cheering you on from the sidelines because in reality, we believe in you. So get up right now and make your dream a reality. 

So next time, when your mind infiltrates a story of a secret spy saying that you are not good enough, you are not smart enough, you are stupid, what are you doing here in a position like that – how dare you think you can move up to leadership position, what makes you think you are so smart when you only got 75% on the exam, are you really intelligent to go to graduate school. Just say this one thing. One thing only. 

Sorry, do I know you? Because if you did, you would know what I am capable of. (**Drop the mic**)

 

Sorry, do I know you? (True story: In high school, I added my crush’s girlfriend on facebook who knew me since we were in the same class, but yet, she sent me a message saying that! Ouch! What a way to spy on your crush’s girlfriend. LOL! I wonder if she knew.)






Who are You?

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Two people talking like mentor

Mentor, Mentor, Do you have a Mentor? 

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Hello Rakstars, 

Why did the mentor bring a ladder to the advice session?

Because they wanted to take their mentee to the next level!

Transcending down the path of a professional journey can be time consuming and overall crazy. There is nothing like slaving the day to climb the never ending ladder. Literally! You walk into your building, ride up the elevator only to be downgraded by seasoned professionals. In a fast landscape, where the world is your oyster, there are rough waters at sea. Alas, we need to possess a compass – something that can help us navigate and provide guidance. 

All aboard, Rakstars. 

Mentorship is all the rage now. But yet we shrug our shoulders. Who would want to mentor me, one may say. But fear not, mentors enjoy what they do. They like to communicate and pass down advice they wish they learnt. Not only are they like teachers but also a friend. Are you ready to navigate the uncharted waters of your career? Probably not. But that’s okay. No one is. You have to be well seasoned, to be in steady waters. 

The relationship between young professionals and mentors is important when you want to move up the ladder and grow your mindset.

Wisdom Transcends Your Journey

A mentor, as you know, is someone who is seasoned in their field, thus having an abundance of experience and knowledge. Their words enlighten you based on their real-world scenarios which becomes an invaluable gem. The benefit of their wisdom allows you to avoid pitfalls and make the best informed choices.  

Career Roadmap and Goal Setting

Buckle your seats, we are going for a ride. Literally. As a young professional, you are not taking a one straight, no speed bumps, no detours, all inclusive ride. Nah! Doesn’t work that way. If it does – let me know who you know? 

Career goals are a timid task which is hard. Just like picking what you want to do after high school. There is no way you’re going to have all the answers and your parents or your siblings or your Uncle who thinks he knows it all but really it’s your Aunt that feeds all that information are gonna know either. You need someone, unbiased, someone who doesn’t really know you so they can’t sugar coat things. Someone who actually knows what they are saying because they lived it. 

Having a mentor is to help you with your aspirations and journey. Every step you take along the way is important, creating a roadmap to your success. 

Building a Professional Network

Network! Network! Network! Go and meet people. Yes, do it! I know you’re an introvert but it’s okay. Everyone is scared, even the people that you need to network with. It’s a put on that they are confident but really they are nervous to meet you. I mean who wouldn’t. You are a great human being. A Rakstar! I would be nervous to meet you as well.

Networking can help open the doors to the industry you want to be in, allowing to create opportunities to learn, collaborate and expand your circle. 

Navigating Workplace Situations

Dynamics in a workplace aka a fancy term for situations in the workplace can be hard to face alone. You can’t really run to your boss or your gossip lover co-worker. Mentors can help serve as a helpful guide to understanding politics, cough, I mean, situations and help you to build positive relationships. 

Skill Development

Learning new perspectives can help you with your growth and learning. This is essential to be a well-rounded individual which is important to the overall culture at your organization. Mentors can offer constructive feedback, allowing you to stay competitive in your field. 

Emotional Support

The career journey is not smooth like peanut butter. No it is not. It has its challenges which can really shake your confidence. Been there, done that! Talking to a mentor is like therapy where you can tell them about the situation and they are there to provide emotional support through the setbacks. This will only make you stronger as a mentor is a powerful motivator. 

Fostering a Growth Mindset

A mentor can help you have a growth mindset, allowing you to embrace challenges and learn from criticism. Having a mentor with a positive mindset can really help you get out of your old mind. 

There are two mindsets: 

  1. Old Mindset: You have all the right answers. Great, okay, you’re in a fixed state of solutions.
  2. Growth Mindset: You ask powerful questions. Okay so now you’re talking about innovative game changing solutions.                                  

Add Value to the Workplace

As a person trying to carve their path, you have the opportunity to add what you have learned from your mentor and apply it to your work, thus, not creating a benefit just for yourself but also for the culture of the organization. You never know, one day you may be a mentor, paying the knowledge and advice you learnt forward – creating the cycle of knowledge contributing to the growth and development of people who really need it. 

Key Principles when you are in your Advice Sessions

  1. Pause before you speak
  2. Listening is more powerful than speaking
  3. Hear out all possibilities

Ways to Stay Organized with Your Mentor

  1. Think ahead with your conversation before speaking with your mentor – this will help to engage a better conversation, not wasting your precious mentor’s time
  2. Plan ahead with where you want to meet, whether it’s in person or virtually. You can plan to go out for lunch, coffee break or try going for a walk together. 
  3. Book ahead as your mentor is a busy person. A night before you want to meet, won’t really cut it. Be professional and give a reasonable time notice.

Rakstars, in the political world of the professional world, mentorship is a great way to stay ahead of the challenges and work towards your success. Benefits are extraneous including your immediate career growth, fostering learning and seizing success. This could be your key to a bright future ahead. Rakstars, even stars, need a constellation to shine their brightest. So what are you waiting for?

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Sticky Notes

I am a sucker for these things (and here’s why you should be too)

The Best Way to Boost Productivity Unleash the Power of Sticky Notes

I am a sucker for these things and here’s why you should be too. Ever had such a wonderful idea and forgot it? Can’t find where you placed that one sheet of paper. Yes, it’s saved on your device, but where? It’s old school but there’s a reason why people who write things down, they remember it easier and an added bonus if it’s on the wall, on a binder or just stuck to your chair – you’re gonna remember regardless!

Are you a fan of stationary supplies? I mean who isn’t. Remember those days when you used to go back to school shopping, I know I do. I miss it, who wouldn’t? New supplies – the smell of freshly packed pencils and a brand new pencil case cause a year older means we need something to represent our new style. But did you ever buy sticky notes?  These adhesive-backed pieces of paper have saved the day more times than I can count. 

 

Remember that thing, yes that small square piece of… wait, what was it? 

 

Picture this: You being regal, ambient and kind are going about your day, just like any other day and boom, a genius wonderful most incredible idea strikes down like the fourth of July. It’s a game-changer, a potential breakthrough, something you don’t want to forget like an anniversary, a birthday, a billion dollar idea or what to have for dinner tonight. But here’s the catch – if you don’t capture it in that second, it might fade away to that far far far away cloud.

Here comes the productivity hack: Sticky Notes. This trusted tool can help keep your thoughts in place. A well-placed sticky note can capture your idea in an instant, ensuring it won’t slip away into a boat on a summer’s dream. No more worried searches for that lost piece of paper(s) or that forgotten digital note that you know you saved but were in your device. Just stick it right in front of you. 

Physical Copy

In today’s digital world, we’re often encouraged to go paperless. Which is definitely environmentally friendly and of course, we need to save our planet. As technology has its pros, there is something undeniably powerful about the experience of just simply writing things down – the old fashion way. Research has shown that the act of physically writing things down on paper can enhance memory retention and comprehension.

When you write something down on a sticky note, you need to place it where you can see it and only then will it serve as a constant reminder – a reminder that you need. This becomes a visual cue that keeps you on track. Whether it’s on your office wall, your binder, or even stuck to your chair (yes, I’ve done that too), it becomes a part of your environment, reinforcing that one thing or multiple things you need to remember.

Versatile

Sticky notes are incredibly multi-talented. They come in various shapes, sizes and even colours. Want to prioritize your to-do list? Use color-coded sticky notes. Want to capture quick reminders? Reach for a smaller sticky note pad. There’s a sticky note for every situation. Rakstars, there is!

Moreover, they’re easily moveable and adaptable. If your plans change, simply peel off a note and alter it. No need to uproot everything else. It’s perfect for that ever-evolving agenda.

Whether you’re a student, a working professional, a meal planner, a singer, a dancer, an accountant, a King or simply someone with a lot on your plate, grab a packet of sticky notes and have fun!

Remember Rakstars, we are here to help you work smarter and remember better. Here’s to a more organized and productive you, with help of the mighty sticky note!

Sticky Notes

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Teacher writing on a whiteboard

Ms. Failure (A note to my teacher)

, ,

Dear Ms. Failure, 

I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the role you played throughout my life. Thank you for having the courage to come to me. This has been a catalyst for my personal growth journey. 

The lesson you served gave me a wake-up call. At first, I was hurt, scared and upset. But then after time, it ignited a sense of redirection – determination if you will. I had to reassess, go back to the drawing board but yet I did not give up. The feedback that was shared helped me understand my shortcomings. I knew I wasn’t perfect and I knew I needed help. 

At first, I saw this as a setback. Why me, pondered in my brain. I was sad, disheartened and cried. But I couldn’t let myself see this failure as a defeat. I chose it to see this as an opportunity – an opportunity of calmness and contentment. Comfort of chocolate soothed the pain, but it helped heal me so that I could take time to reflect on what I needed to do. Your constructive criticism allowed me to gain valuable insights – seeing the glass half empty to creating the glass half full. 

I implored strategies and implemented changes to my approach. I asked for help when needed and became more alert. This failure was my turning point. I sat so comfortably that I didn’t realize I really needed to change. This failure propelled me to work smarter. As a result of this event, I knew that I had to improve myself – confidence, anxiety & extracurriculars. I developed a resilience that I never knew existed. 

Mrs. Failure, your role was a pivotal eye opener. I want to express my utmost appreciation for the impact that you have caused. Thank you for failing me. Without you failing me, I wouldn’t have pushed harder, I wouldn’t have been innovative and I certainly would be sitting somewhere that wasn’t meant to be. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed. 

I am fine now. Thanks for asking. I am happier than ever and I look forward to applying the lessons you have brought on in life for any upcoming challenges that may appear. 

Mrs. Failure, thanks for being a contributing educator to my growth. 

Sincerely,

Me






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