Way of Living Archives | The Rakstar

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

The Rakstar — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 20:42:23 +0000

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.

: Photo by Yessi Trex

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

The Rakstar — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:55:29 +0000

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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How to Level Up in 2025: A Life-Changing Morning Routine

The Rakstar — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 01:01:14 +0000

If you’ve ever felt like your mornings set the tone for your entire day, you’re absolutely right. A wonderful and empowering morning routine can be the difference between feeling like crap and overwhelmed or empowered and in control.

The secret?

It’s not just about waking up earlier—it’s about waking up with excitement for the day.

So let’s create that Rakstar life to boost our productivity, enhance our mental clarity and support our overall well-being.

Step 1: Start the Night Before

A great morning begins the night before. If you’re waking up tired and scattered, it’s likely because your evening routine isn’t setting you up for success.

✔ Prepare Your Environment

Tidy up your space, lay out your clothes (and/or gym clothes) and set up anything you’ll need for the next day. A clutter-free environment leads to a clutter-free mind.

✔ Limit Screen Time

Blue light from screens disrupts melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Try reading, journaling or meditating instead of scrolling endlessly. Just one more video, just one more post, just one more – say your goodbyes and get some zzz’s.

✔ Set Your Intentions

Before bed, write down 1-3 key things you want to accomplish the next day. This helps you wake up with purpose.

Step 2: Wake Up Early (But Make It Enjoyable)

The goal isn’t just to wake up early—it’s to wake up excited. If you dread your mornings, tweak them until they feel more aligned with what energizes you.

✔ Use a Gentle Alarm

Ditch the blaring siren. We are not going to war! Opt for a soft chime, sunrise alarm clock or even a motivational song.

✔ Resist the Snooze Button

Hitting snooze confuses your body and makes you groggier. Instead, countdown from 5 and get out of bed (love this hack from Mel Robbins’ 5-Second Rule).

✔ Let Natural Light In

Open your blinds or step outside for a few minutes. Sunlight tells your body it’s time to be alert. It makes such a difference, trust us!

Step 3: Hydrate Before Caffeine

Your body is dehydrated after hours of sleep and reaching for coffee first thing can further dehydrate you. Instead, start with:

✔ A glass of warm lemon water (great for digestion and detox).
✔ Electrolytes or coconut water (for extra hydration).
✔ Green tea if you want a gentler caffeine boost.

Coffee can come later—give your body a chance to wake up naturally first!

Step 4: Move Your Body

You don’t need an intense workout at 5 AM (unless you want one!), but some form of movement is key. This could be:

✔ A quick stretching session to loosen up.
✔ A short walk (bonus points for fresh air!).
✔ A 5-minute workout to get the blood flowing.

The goal? To wake up your body in a way that feels good to you.

Step 5: Fuel Your Mind

Your first thoughts in the morning shape your mindset for the rest of the day. Instead of scrolling social media or checking emails, try:

✔ Journaling – Brain dump your thoughts, write affirmations or jot down things you’re grateful for.
✔ Reading – A few pages of an inspiring book can shift your perspective.
✔ Listening to a Podcast – Choose something uplifting or educational while getting ready.

Step 6: Eat for Energy

Skipping breakfast might seem like a time-saver, but it can lead to energy crashes later. Instead, fuel your body with:

✔ Protein + Healthy Fats – Eggs, Greek yogurt or a smoothie with nut butter.
✔ Complex Carbs – Oats, whole grain toast or fruit for steady energy.
✔ A Balanced Plate – Avoid sugary cereals or pastries that cause mid-morning crashes.

Step 7: Set the Tone for the Day

Before jumping into work, take a few minutes to center yourself.

✔ Review Your Priorities

Look over your to-do list and set realistic goals. If your page is crowded, try again. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Pick a couple and see how far you get done, then go for the gold.

✔ Visualize Success

Imagine your day going smoothly and achieving what you set out to do.

✔ Affirmations & Mantras

A few powerful words can shift your mindset from reactive to proactive.

✔️“I woke up today with energy and gratitude.”

✔️ “I am in control of my day and my mindset.”

✔️ “I attract success, happiness, and abundance.”

Your Morning Routine, Your Rules

A life-changing morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to create habits that align with your lifestyle and goals. Start small—maybe by implementing just one or two of these steps—and adjust as you go.

Remember: Mornings set the tone, but you set the rules.

Which of these morning habits are you excited to try? I’d love to hear about your experience!

Reach out via email or through the Contact Us page to share your thoughts, ask questions, or let us know how your morning routine is evolving. Let’s build better mornings together! 💛

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30 Daily Journal Prompts for January to Unlock Self-Discovery

The Rakstar — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 21:32:50 +0000

As we step into the New Year, let’s take some time to reconnect with ourselves and set intentions for the months ahead. Here are 30 journal prompts, one for each day of January, to help you start the year with clarity and purpose.

Week 1: Reflect and Reset

What was your favourite moment from last year?
What challenges did you overcome in the past year?
How do you want to feel in 2025?
What are three things you’re most grateful for right now?
What habits do you want to let go of this year?
What habits would you like to cultivate instead?
Write down your top three priorities for the year.

Week 2: Dream Big

If you could achieve one big goal this year, what would it be?
What’s something new you’d like to try this month?
Describe your ideal day from morning to night.
What’s one place you want to visit this year, and why?
What’s your dream job, and what steps can you take toward it?
Who inspires you, and what can you learn from them?
If failure wasn’t an option, what would you do?

Week 3: Self-Discovery

What does self-care look like for you?
What’s a skill you’d like to learn or improve?
What’s one thing that brings you joy, and how can you do it more often?
Describe a time when you felt truly proud of yourself.
What limiting beliefs are holding you back, and how can you challenge them?
What does success mean to you?
Write a letter to your future self one year from now.

Week 4: Gratitude and Growth

List five things you love about yourself.
What’s something small but meaningful you’ve accomplished recently?
Who has supported you recently, and how can you show them gratitude?
What’s one lesson you learned last year that you want to carry forward?
What’s one thing you can do this week to step outside your comfort zone?
Write about a time when you showed kindness to someone else.
What are three things you can do to make your life more enjoyable?

Final Days: January Wrap-Up

What went well for you this month?
What’s one thing you want to focus on as February begins?

Feel free to revisit these prompts anytime you need clarity or inspiration. Journaling is your space to dream, reflect, and grow—so grab your notebook, find a cozy spot and let your thoughts flow. Happy writing Rakstars!

: Photo by Vlada Karpovich

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The Daily Act

The Rakstar — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 18:37:11 +0000

Rakstars, have you ever felt that the day goes by so fast that you don’t get the chance to do something that prioritizes you? From school to work to taking care of the family to doing chores that seem so boring and mundane. What about carving time out for yourself so that you can dance the night away?

We mindlessly are bogged down with tasks that we have to do, that sucks out all the fun and lowers our energy and we become not excited anymore. Fear not, there is one thing we can all add to our self-care routine. The Daily Act!

What is The Daily Act?

Daily Act is where you set up some time each day for a self-care intention. You prioritize your well-being, giving that spark of joy for yourself. It can be from resting in your pajamas with a mask on or going for the walk that you ever so desired. Moreover, it’s about doing the act of taking care of yourself – the calm energy you have longed for.

ACT stands for:

A – Action: Taking an action to boost your overall happiness.

C – Cultivate Consistency: Establishing Regular habits.

T – Trust the Process: Consistency yields results and through patience and resilience, you will achieve your desired outcome.

When you practice this on a daily basis, not only will you yield your desired results, you will be a calmer, happier and confident person. Taking time for yourself has so many benefits but it all starts with you.

You are taking the action to start, being consistent on your journey and through trusting the process – you become a better you.

Let’s take a look at some examples that you can incorporate into your self-care routine on a regular basis and let the flow of calmness enter your soul:

10 minutes of meditation

Boxing class to get rid of the stress of the day away

Taking a 15 minute snooze

Wearing comfy cozy clothes

Watching your favorite tv show

Sketching/ Drawing

Painting your nails

Rearrange your skincare draw

10 Minute dance break

Aerobics class

Zumba dance class

Staring out the window

Stop thinking and being present in the moment

Clean your space

Plant seeds in your garden

Stand outside in the rain

Talk to people

Sing like your on stage

Let out a cry

Try on your favorite outfits

Listen to a podcast or audio book

Run on the treadmill

Do a 10 step skin care routine

Reading a chapter of a book

Once you find a Daily Act that resonates with you, don’t be afraid to add it to your calendar, agenda or even a sticky note. Make the time for yourself – start with 10 minutes each day, sneak away and just listen to your heart. Sometimes that’s all it takes to promote your self-care and be well. Once you form a habit, it will be hard to stop and each day that little thing you do for yourself – that Daily Act – well, you will look forward to it as the day starts, sparking that inner joy that was beneath all those mundane tasks.

You got this Rakstars!

: Photo by Oleksandr P

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Journaling: Lost and Unsettled

The Rakstar — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 18:19:08 +0000

I never felt so lost before and so unsettled. Who said being an adult was easy? When we were young, all we wanted to do was to grow up. Have no one tell us what to do, make our own decisions and do whatever we want. But who said that was easy. Life grown up may just be as miserable as when we were told no as a kid because now we are telling ourselves no to something because we know it’s not the right decision, whether it’s a career, relationships, or even eating ice cream before dinner. How do we get out of the rut? Feeling so unsettled! Does it ever go away? Does it ever get better?

I feel so much better writing. Maybe that’s why I love writing stories. But what’s the point of writing if it can’t be shared. Take a leap of faith and now I am here in front of you as you read this!

The best way for me to get out of a rut and try to move one, is journaling. Journaling has been a journey of self-reflection, thoughts and moods. Although I’m not consistent, it still helps to find a moment of calmness. Eliminating any noise and distraction, it gives me five minutes of peace and tranquility.

With journaling, I can express my thoughts, challenges and even some ideas – turning a blank page into a scribbled document – well, that’s encouraging. With the everyday struggles of life, sometimes it’s easier to undermine your mind and just keep going, ignoring the build up of feelings whether it’s anxiety, depression or frustration. When you pick up the pen and write you can put your thoughts in order – decluttering your mind. From the very first word you write, to the very end of your sentence – you will see a pattern forming, thoughts developing and solutions become clearer. This brings you a sense of calm within the chaos. In every word that you write, you are present, reflecting on the day’s events and it makes you appreciate something. With journaling, you are taking the first step to a positive approach for your mental wellbeing by being mindfully aware. Moreover, you have released your inner creativity – journaling is not all about words but it can be about doodles and sketches or even the array of colours you chose to write with. You can brainstorm your ideas, write down your dreams and plan your next big thing.

I love using a journal that is nice to look at. It makes the writing experience more fun. But not only that, smooth gel pens turn up the creative flow.

Remember Rakstars, journaling is personal and it will evolve each time. You become self-discoverable – bring you clarity, creativity and mindfulness. So what are you waiting for Rakstars, grab a favourite journal, pick up your colourful pens and let the pages soak in ink.

: Photo by Keenan Constance

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Bathing Bliss (Step by Step Guide to Relax)

The Rakstar — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 17:40:32 +0000

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!

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.
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.
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.
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.

: Photo by Monstera Production

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The Big Money Belief: Abundance Mindset

The Rakstar — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 21:45:56 +0000

Big Money…Abundance Mindset?

What we think is true versus what is really true?
How do we see others’ riches versus our own riches?
Is Money a Stressor or a Saviour?

I once overheard someone at a Ferrari event ask the person next to them who they just literally met and had passed the Hi How are you, so What do you Do commentary and then just like that, bam, he asked:

What I just don’t understand is… how does someone like you… working as a mid level employee in a company, afford a Ferrari?

Now you may think that this was a rude question but in reality and truth, he was speaking what was on his mind. If he thought this, then maybe just maybe everyone else did. What about the other employees at work? The person’s boss? All scratching their heads dumbfounded. Maybe so?

In order for us to be rich, we must be Rich CEO’s or Investment Managers, Surgeons, High profiled lawyers … but the truth is – here comes the abundance mindset – we must be financially literate.

Think of it as this – You go to school to study and learn and basically be smart so that one day you can buy a house, drive a fancy car, support your family and well – conform to societal norms. But in order to do that, we need the Moolah – the dolla bill – well hundred and hundreds of dolla bills because frankly nothing is cheap anymore. 25 cents chocolate bars seemed like a different world back in the day. I wouldn’t know regardless. LOL!

What we don’t learn is how to be financially independent. How to eliminate financial stress, how to build wealth and how to be our own wealthy person. But the first step in any financial education, learning, masterclass, skill – whatever you want to call it. The idea of having money, lots and lots of it, doesn’t always equate to a fulfilled life. Yes you can have money, lots of it but what’s the point if you are unhappy? I guess that’s where the quote Money can’t buy happiness falls into it. It’s like having a lifetime supply of boston cream donuts, only to have a dairy allergy! What’s the point? You can be a hot shot exec working or some would say slaving for so many years, earning that dough, creating wealth only to realize you are burnt out, tired and have lost your interests, your friends, loved ones – why? Your life was not fulfilled. Working with no meaning or purpose.

So why do they call it Personal Finance?

Well, it’s personal.

No one size fits all.

What is the very first step to financial freedom?

See where you want to go and keep traveling there (metaphorically speaking).

Example: Save up for a nice apartment.

Change your outlook (no not your email). Don’t think of money as a stressor. Think of money as a saviour.

Example: Money is not evil, it’s a positive source of life.

Be Realistic! You won’t wake up as a millionaire, but overtime, in a few years possibly, you can arrive at your fulfilled life. But remember when you start now, change is bound to happen. If you don’t do anything about it, nothing much will change. Unless you leave it to the lotto.

Example: Set a plan of action for budgeting/saving/earning more than what you had before.

Do not surrender to fear. Fear is part of the process. Fear comes before accomplishment

Example: Setbacks are bound to happen.

Where has there been one biography story where the person didn’t encounter hardship. It makes a good story, so keep moving so you get to the next chapter.

Do not let your energy fade. The good one. Day to day actions are needed for a big change. If you lose hope one day, if you forget where you are going, if you forget you won’t go far! Remember your own reason and keep it close to you!

Example: Put it on a sticky note, frame it, take a picture and keep it as your screensaver.

: Photo by Roberto Nickson

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Spending Money vs Regret: Pick your battle

The Rakstar — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 21:26:24 +0000

In a life filled with decisions based on one aspect, we ought to find ourselves is money the real enemy or is it the choices that we make?

There’s more to life than money. One must hope. But as we delve into the deep roots that lay upon us, pine into the hardworking soul of our day and dazzle into the bed hoping for a good night’s rest, one thing comes to mind. The life you wish you lived. For it seems strange, to think about it, but what is sleep without dreams and what are dreams without goals and what are goals without aspirations and what are aspirations without you.

When you have money, the choices you make are endless. There is no confusion in the world and if you can’t decide, you will just go for both. The lobster and the crab. The house and the yacht. Your partner and the mistress. Why? Because money, like it or not … is power! The power to do anything you want.

Now what if I told you, you have an abundance of money, would you regret anything? Probably not! The way the world works, the way we see things, if we don’t have money then we cannot do x, y, and z, thus, we have regret.

Think about it!

In the next 2 seconds think about what you would choose.

Spending Money or Regret!

Pick your battle!

Regret is like battle scars. The things you wish you did but you didn’t. I wish I spent money on a new piano, I could have pursued my piano career. I wish I had negotiated a higher salary. I should have invested my money instead of saving it – I would have been rich. I wish I spent money on tutoring so I could have graduated. I wish I trusted myself and started my business. I wish…I wish…I wish….There ain’t no wishing stars nearby.

The internal struggle that falls inside our souls is a delicate dance of making the right choices. But how do we know if it’s the right choice? Only time can answer that.

When you spend money on the things that are investments to you – that provide a high value of return – you should spend it. For example, a self-development course or a high quality tote bag that will last you years to come.

When you spend money on the things that do not provide a high value of return such as shoes or decor pillows only to be used once – you shouldn’t splurge.

If we don’t purchase the self-development course, then we cannot improve our communication skills which will cause us to not get the promotion. On the other hand, if we don’t purchase shoes, well, then we will just wear shoes we already have. See the difference!

Now which scenario would you feel regret?

Option 1: Self-development course

Option 2: Shoes

Now on the count of three…let’s say our choice. Ready! 1 -2 -3- Shoe – oh – Yep Self-development course. Option 1! Regret looms like a dark shadow laughing down on us.

But here’s the message: Making the choices that suit your needs in the current time. Balance is key!

Spending money can bring joy and satisfaction whereas regret can feel gloomy. So don’t be stingy! You can save all you want, you really can. But there comes to a point in life, where saving money isn’t going to help you. It’s spending money to gain something in return that can get you one step closer to where you need to be. Such as one step up the corporate ladder, higher grades and even a well-rounded version of yourself. Don’t skimp on yourself because you don’t want to spend money. Spending money is not an enemy. Spending money is what makes the world go round and the economy happy.

You can’t be stingy or skimpy on spending. But you can be smart about your money so you don’t have to be stingy or skimpy. When you budget wisely for the things that truly matter to you – don’t feel guilty. On the other hand, if you pass up your potential and opportunities because you didn’t take the leap and hand over the cash – regret can sneak in.

So the lesson to be learned is…indulge wisely. Life is too short for regrets and financial security is an abundance of enjoyment. Enjoy the dance and spend on things that truly matter to you.

Remember, Rakstars, life is a runway and you’re the star.

: Photo by Liza Summer

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Pay Yourself First

The Rakstar — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 21:17:37 +0000

Why do people have a world of luxury? I’m saving so much but I can’t afford what others have?

No. 1: Don’t compare what you have and what others have? Your life is not the same as them, nor your neighbour. You do you boo.

No. 2: Are you paying yourself first? No, well, read below:

The Power of Paying Yourself First

Financial freedom is a life we all dream of. But there are ways to achieve it and there are steps that need to be taken. Nothing is as easy as a blink of an eye, but through the test of time, paying yourself first is unlike no other advice we hear.

What does it mean to Pay Yourself First?

Paying yourself. You like the sound of it. So do I. It is the concept of taking a percentage of your income to a YOU account. So essentially, it now becomes part of your expenses. You take your income minus all your expenses including a percentage that you allocate to yourself. This way the money you take from the percentage is now focused on you. This shifts the approach from just spending on whatever and whenever to intentional wealth-building.

Pros of Paying Yourself First

Discipline

In a vast society of many many things, when we prioritize ourselves, we live in a world where we want to be strategic with our money. Who doesn’t like spending money on themselves? You are forced to live within your means while working towards your financial goals. The practice of budgeting and training yourself, where every penny goes, make you more financially conscious about your spending habits, thus investing the money you save for yourself, for something you most desire.

Wealth though Time

Let’s just say you take the amount you pay yourself and throw it into an investment account where compound interest works its magic wand. You have now paid yourself more money. Thus building your one stop step to the wealth machine.

Emergency Fund

This is your BFF. When you pay yourself first, this allows you to maintain that emergency fund because you can contribute to it. Have that peace of mind and reduce your stress load from any unexpected expenses that could have negative consequences on the money side of things..

Mindset Change

When you prioritize yourself and your needs. You are no longer poor. That’s right, Rakstars. You are not poor. You have an abundance of resources at your fingertips. You pay yourself which means you are empowered. You are no longer an observer, you are an architect building that life you so desire. Your mind opens up to all wonders and you can do what you imagined you couldn’t before. Go ice skating, treat yourself to the amusement park or buy that designer item you had your eye on.

Tips for Implementing “Pay Yourself First”

Set Your Financial Goals

What is your short-term financial goal?

What is your long-term financial goal?

Examples can include: Luxury handbag, payment on a house, emergency fund, maybe you want to start thinking about retirement. I know I do!

Automation can be your Friend

We can’t simply remember that the 15th of every month and the last day of every month is pay day! So many things happen in life and it gets crazy busy. Try to make the process smooth by setting an automatic transfer to a different account, so that you can watch it grow.

Beginning will be small

At first, setting everything up and allocating a portion/percentage of the income may be small amounts. That’s okay. You’ve started. This is the main thing! When your income grows, you grow as a person – you will see, so will the amount and value you get for paying yourself first.

Rakstars, paying yourself first is an opportunity to invest in yourself. Whether it’s going to conferences, learning a new instrument or purchasing something you had your eye on, you are allowed to prioritize your wellbeing. By making choices and laying out a concrete foundation for your wealth by paying yourself first. Not only are you going to live the life you dreamed but you will enjoy it. You don’t have to wait till your 99 in retirement to enjoy life. Enjoy it now!

: Photo by Karolina Kaboompics

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