tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72365386187322523922024-03-08T20:33:04.656+00:00ChloeHarrietsA lifestyle blog, including all things intentional living, self-development, organisation, interiors, books and more.Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.comBlogger438125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-88228306690525747692023-02-26T17:36:00.004+00:002023-02-26T17:36:58.610+00:00A bad day...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs75KlkXZOVGfsDiTtXczHrQcgi6jDacKETTprMRkdyaDMrI85paiuh0lGfXMDq4fFy88v8ErhkTcSwaCgaTpcMnoYNlehKKSLATo8xrl_3d46tQnhd2HCdS5kWxj2aPL5oJem8RfQgLeWVJfGTI9hTP_Nmej2QYBNChpcyFjN1ub7EXCcWgcBwuG8_w/s4032/IMG_8354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs75KlkXZOVGfsDiTtXczHrQcgi6jDacKETTprMRkdyaDMrI85paiuh0lGfXMDq4fFy88v8ErhkTcSwaCgaTpcMnoYNlehKKSLATo8xrl_3d46tQnhd2HCdS5kWxj2aPL5oJem8RfQgLeWVJfGTI9hTP_Nmej2QYBNChpcyFjN1ub7EXCcWgcBwuG8_w/w480-h640/IMG_8354.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>Well, it's been a week for me. A week of reminders that mental health ebbs and flows. That as humans we are inconsistent. Moods are changing and situations are moving, although often at a different speed than we were hoping. We've got to trust the timing, although often it seems the clock is set wrong. </p><p>I'm an anxious person. I think everyone has some level of anxiety. But there was a day this week when it felt like my entire being was made of anxiety. I didn't know how I was going to make it through that day. Not in a morbid way, in a way that everything felt so heightened I couldn't imagine being out of it, but here we are.</p><p>I cried. I threw up, twice. I breathed, in for the count of 4. I held it for the count of 4. and I breathed out for the count of 4. One, two three, four. I lay on the floor in the fetal position and noticed my body shaking. And eventually had a somewhat normal evening. My mind wasn't switched off, but I went about the motions. I sat in front of the TV while my fiancé cooked dinner. I wasn't watching the TV but it was on. I ate carbonara, but I don't think I tasted it. And then I slept. The next day I had what I could only describe as an anxiety hangover. My head was pounding. But I'd made it to the next day, and from then the week was on the up. </p><p>I think that day, I had what people refer to as a breakdown. I'm not really sure how you classify something as a breakdown, but it felt like I had broken. I've had panic attacks before but this felt like more, it felt like I was stuck in a loop of panic attacks. But as my week went it felt more distant, and I remember what it was like to feel joy again. In fact, I even felt joy again.</p><p>I know this was triggered by a situational thing. A build-up of a situation which crescendoed. A situation which will hopefully change. And of course, I'm going to take action to not get to this point again. Make changes where they're needed. </p><p>This was a personal one I know. I didn't have much of a plan for today's writing session. Beforehand I'd listened to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ravenspodcast/" target="_blank">The Ravens</a> podcast, where, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tessasquirrel/" target="_blank">Tessa</a> was a guest, and on this podcast about One Tree Hill they spoke about mental health, and the importance of sharing it - and so when I went to write, that's where I went with it. Is spoken about my mental health online before, but I've never gone into the details. Today it felt like the details mattered. That I'd experienced something which felt so intense writing about it might dilute it. Or at least comfort someone else. </p><p>Bad days happen, but they don't define the other days, and even when we feel feeble I think we can find the power in us to make changes, at least that's what I'm attempting.</p><p><br /></p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-50098247116853955652023-02-12T19:53:00.001+00:002023-02-12T19:53:14.139+00:00I've been doing self-care wrong...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdz7uQUwe5XKaiWP5-w2-jldc4LWkXrqQMjWRC8mj8eeMY7wwsSRaet7UVoe4F-TheVQmd-p5haJva985yRXUXaYfWL0-R3_e_wVgsv75_sSMEOtpr11z9LrFKvR3ly1z7mHSwoBYeYV_evFk1NHAlCYqdF9pyf3kznuw2tA2M6fp0yDD68jctgiYAg/s4032/IMG_7623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdz7uQUwe5XKaiWP5-w2-jldc4LWkXrqQMjWRC8mj8eeMY7wwsSRaet7UVoe4F-TheVQmd-p5haJva985yRXUXaYfWL0-R3_e_wVgsv75_sSMEOtpr11z9LrFKvR3ly1z7mHSwoBYeYV_evFk1NHAlCYqdF9pyf3kznuw2tA2M6fp0yDD68jctgiYAg/w480-h640/IMG_7623.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>It was only a week ago I wrote my last post, but it feels like a lot has changed. Like somehow the earth has shifted on its axis and the world has hit the reset button. I feel in a different place.</p><p>One of my goals for this year was to look after myself properly. By that I mean to invest in looking after myself. I'm fortunate enough, that if I budget correctly I am able to afford to do that. This new year's intention has changed everything.</p><p>Almost two weeks ago I started taking action on this goal. I finally saw a private dermatologist about my eczema. I've had eczema forever. But over the past few years, it's been bad. Like everything it goes through phases, it follows the pattern of my stress, and I find myself stuck in a vicious cycle, a catch-22. Stress is the cause, and what it causes. The NHS are great, don't get me wrong, but with this, they haven't provided the help I've needed to live the life I want. I won't go into how difficult living with eczema has been, I'll save that for another day. But when it's severe and covers 90% of your body, living in that body does not feel like a pleasant place to live.</p><p>So I did some googling. I rang a dermatologist and on the same day I found myself in their offices (offices... is that what they're called? Surgery maybe?)</p><p>I won't go into my treatment plan, you don't need to know that. But I will say, my life feels like it's changed. Changed in a way that no level of mindfulness would have achieved.</p><p>You see, I am a self-confessed, obsessed self-care junkie. The more cringe and cliché and more into it I am. Often I've fooled myself into thinking my mindset would change everything. It was my mindset that got me through the bad days, but I should just be dragging myself through the days, by clinging to the hope of words of affirmation, when my skin feels on fire. Life is for living after all. </p><p>This one change made me realise I'd been doing it wrong. The self-care thing that is. Where I thought I was an expert, I was actually quite naive and narrow-minded. I'd bought into an idea of self-care that was sold to me through aesthetically pleasing Instagram feeds. Now don't get me wrong, there's a place for all of that. But I'd made the mistake of thinking that's where it started. It's not. The pretty stuff... that's sprinkles on the self-care cupcake. It's sure as hell, not the cake itself.</p><p>There needs to be a solid foundation on which you build upon</p><p>When my skin was so itchy, that I was up all night, my 10-minute morning meditation might have offered a small distraction, but it was also spent thinking about how I was itchy and tired and my skin hurt. And now I'm in a better place, I can feel the impacts of my mindfulness. </p><p>You can't work backwards. You've got to start from the bottom. Address the problem. Face the big things. And then add the other stuff in. </p><p>In all my years journalling, doing yoga, and picking up daily habits to become the person I aspire to be, I've noticed small shifts, and I always say if it makes you feel good, it makes you feel good it's as simple as that. But I've never felt such a difference, huge a big transformation in my energy, emotion and brain space as I have from putting my hand in my pocket and paying the money to actually see changes to the one thing that has truly made my days difficult.</p><p>And I know it won't always necessarily be like this. I know situations, circumstances, and moods change. But I will never take for granted the ease of having clear skin. </p><p>Let this be your reminder, self-care isn't the pretty stuff. The pretty stuff, matters. The lifestyle sprinkle. But you've got to start with life. </p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-44221818085034610432023-02-05T18:24:00.005+00:002023-02-05T18:30:57.515+00:00On writing...<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPuZCZOKjH_LpiXObSCCDP6cP3IRyoEMft19qlrwmcH2D0bFiOn6L1tddwoKY7PYyaZcHZWljN6dcchnUFP-lu7cmKUPz0sQ76FwSANYbAhM3Yj5s516-PfQZdHVxYCbPqdm4aGGlRmiSUO2HB0c4NR5YpKiTlLCXLkXKDlZuyg3n16XTLPzsJ7M0yw/s4032/IMG_7045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Writer and blogger Chloe Harriets outfit photo against brick wall. Knit jumper, patterned tights" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPuZCZOKjH_LpiXObSCCDP6cP3IRyoEMft19qlrwmcH2D0bFiOn6L1tddwoKY7PYyaZcHZWljN6dcchnUFP-lu7cmKUPz0sQ76FwSANYbAhM3Yj5s516-PfQZdHVxYCbPqdm4aGGlRmiSUO2HB0c4NR5YpKiTlLCXLkXKDlZuyg3n16XTLPzsJ7M0yw/w480-h640/IMG_7045.JPG" title="Writer and blogger Chloe Harriets outfit photo against brick wall. Knit jumper, patterned tights" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>It has been a while. </p><p>I lost my way with writing, I lost my way with this blog.</p><p>I felt as though I'd run out of things to say. I couldn't find words that held value, every sentence felt like too much or too little.</p><p>Life got busy. My life changed, transformed, and morphed into something new. Before I knew it I had new routines. A new home to settle into. A relationship that did the job which writing used to do, clearing the dusty corners in my mind. Life felt lighter.</p><p>And then it got heavy. In love and living in a happy home. I struggled with anxiety and found my skin angry with eczema flare-ups (severe and covering 90% of my body) making day-to-day tough. Transforming little things feel like big things, and not in a nice way. With that my mind filled with fog, and my priority was navigating each day, with only the energy to binge Netflix shows in my pockets of spare time. </p><p>Things have moved forward as they do. And the dust had cleared and now I have space to find words again. </p><p><br /></p><p>I've wanted to get back into blogging for the longest time. I just no longer knew how to do it. Ideas for blog posts stopped coming to me in the middle of the night. It wasn't until I was reading <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jamievaron/" target="_blank">Jamie Varon</a>'s newsletter that I realised why.</p><p>She said <span style="background-color: #f6f4ef; font-family: Baskerville, serif; font-size: 18px;">"I want to outgrow past versions of myself so completely that trying to go back is painful. I don’t want to be who I was."</span></p><p>And it made me so painfully aware, I'd been trying to grow by going backwards. </p><p>I was trying to make this website of mine what it used to be. Trying to mould words to sound like a past version of myself. But I'm not her anymore, and there's value in growth. Maybe eyeliner reviews don't spark joy like they used to. <span>T</span>he purpose of my writing is not what it once was. I'm no longer trying and failing to create a career out of sharing things I love online. I'm writing to know myself more. Play with words again, build them into stories and wanderings which might provide clarity, provoke thought, or a moment of peace. For myself and maybe for whoever else decides to read.</p><p>Now I've learned things are fluid, and there might come a time I want to use this platform to share a really great lipstick, but for now, once a week, I'm going to sit down with my laptop and write what comes to me. I might not share everything, and sometimes there might not be a lot to share, but every week, the intent will be there, and I think that's enough.</p><p>I'm ready to write again, and I hope you'll come and read what I've got to say.</p><p>Typing feels exciting again, and that's really something.</p><p>And although the style might be slightly different, after typing away, I feel light, like I used to.</p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-64592631803379133202022-01-31T18:00:00.017+00:002022-01-31T18:00:00.153+00:002022 Word of the Year.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJYCagtqbFHAsLzsc7xnmuy5ybsTEpPg4bVuyWH7Cxa2jUuv9wIx9lp10vgOdXKDWDleebx5W-7RUs90mT79VU2TzbOuEGkGSGrxVH6fhVX1ZyIK0ywgM7-hSNTojcTVpo1u2pj0naZOE5G56smeeMb1oYfNONpAH6eaOXMQbw1Fyxp7OsAoPX5W_Zuw=s1600" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJYCagtqbFHAsLzsc7xnmuy5ybsTEpPg4bVuyWH7Cxa2jUuv9wIx9lp10vgOdXKDWDleebx5W-7RUs90mT79VU2TzbOuEGkGSGrxVH6fhVX1ZyIK0ywgM7-hSNTojcTVpo1u2pj0naZOE5G56smeeMb1oYfNONpAH6eaOXMQbw1Fyxp7OsAoPX5W_Zuw=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">If you read my recent blog post on my </span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="text-align: left;">2022 goals</a><span style="text-align: left;"> I don’t think my word of the year will come </span><span style="text-align: left;">as much of a surprise to you. All of the goals seem to tie back into one thing. It wasn’t something that was intentional but then reflecting on the goals I set, I realised they seemed to spell out my word for 2022.</span></div><p><br />Are you ready for it?!<br /></p><h2>Creativity.</h2>All of my intentions for the year are fuelled by my desire to be creative.<br /><br />I want to connect with my creative side again and find joy in making things simply for the joy that bring. I want to find that child-like playfulness within the little daily things like getting dressed, and how I spend my evenings. I want to explore the creativity in my 9-5 and the places where I wouldn't normally expect to find it. <br /><br />To find joy in being creative for the sake of being creative, rather than feeling guilty for not using that time to tick things off that endless to-do list.<br /><br />I think it's important I rediscover that child-like element of myself. I think that could be a ticket to fulfilment and mindfulness for me. <br /><br /><br />I want my year to be spent making, painting, and having fun. Creating. <br /><br />Creating to add some colour to the mundane, creating as an expression of love, creating online, and offline, alone and among others, creating to cut down on buying and creating because I can. <p></p><p style="text-align: left;">And it's got me excited to feel craft-y again.</p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">Have you set a word for the year?!</p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-22572568735821202892022-01-10T09:30:00.001+00:002022-01-10T09:30:00.166+00:002022 Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghOF-o67skZEKuQ3nTiPRKdD37Ilab4leG2pCHZJQUvLt8Bm3I0PtOkWSrMEtp4VC-6tZiEj9LvGSadp7mZDQmF-9ukRKfUOqUkwY_3ca1JCYD3bqByFeCMLt1QhVadvdwrk9GNU3Df4kUB-0AA9DYX58CwrMGNDbFNAuu5JV9jM83byHbTSCNd--MjQ=s1599" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl with Wine - Hello 2022 - 2022 Goals" border="0" data-original-height="1599" data-original-width="1431" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghOF-o67skZEKuQ3nTiPRKdD37Ilab4leG2pCHZJQUvLt8Bm3I0PtOkWSrMEtp4VC-6tZiEj9LvGSadp7mZDQmF-9ukRKfUOqUkwY_3ca1JCYD3bqByFeCMLt1QhVadvdwrk9GNU3Df4kUB-0AA9DYX58CwrMGNDbFNAuu5JV9jM83byHbTSCNd--MjQ=w572-h640" title="Girl with Wine - Hello 2022 - 2022 Goals" width="572" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Hello, happy new year. 2022 feels good, doesn't it? </span></h2><p>As I do around this time every year, I've been thinking about the person I am, the person I want to be, the things I want to achieve and the kind of life I would like to lead and use this information to set my intentions and goals for the year to come (my blog post on my word of intention for the year is coming soon too, promise).</p><p>I know some people don't like thhe practice of create new year goals and resolutions, but I personally find them refreshing and exciting. They add a little extra flavour to the hope I find within a new year beginning.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">So without further ado - here are my goals for 2022...</h2><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Feel like a writer again - and a blogger for that matter.</h3><p>I used to feel like a writer. I used to shae poetry on my Instagram despite cringing whilst pressing post. I've written an entire finished draft of a novel, which is simply sitting on the laptop I'm typing on right now, just waiting around for me to make some edits. I used to write for the sake of writing. For how it made me feel. </p><p>My life had transformed a lot over the past few years. It's become happier, one I'd wished for, but with that my constant desire to write somewhat faded. It wasn't that I no longer enjoyed it, more that I no longer need to feel the release it provides. I no longer feel so lost that words on the page are the only way I can find myself. But still, I miss writing. I miss the places it takes and the peace it brings me. I miss the thrill of the words just coming to me. The high of feeling like I've explained myself in a way I couldn't out loud. I stopped writing because I didn't feel so sad, so lost that I needed it. But now I'm happy and in the place I want to be and maybe it's worth writing about that too. My happiness is worth writing down, recording on paper.</p><p>I miss talking about my blog with pride. I miss showing up, sharing with my tiny part of the internet every week. In 2022, I will find the writer and the blogger within me again. </p><p>A long time ago I wrote <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2018/01/i-want-to-be-writer_12.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a>. Deep down I'm still that girl who dreams of being a writer. So I'd better get writing again.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />Have more fun with fashion.</h3><div>I love fashion. I have a degree in fashion. I watch shows like Emily in Paris in awe of the crazy outfits. I spend my lunch breaks scrolling fashion video on TikTok, feeling a jealous ping of all the cool 'fits. Then I realised if I want to have fun with clothes I can. I can get creative with my outfits and enjoy what I'm wearing because I want to. I can experiment and try new looks and express myself through the clothes I choose - so I'm going to do just that. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've also decided to start posting 'get dressed with me' video on TikTok to encourage me to put a little effort into my outfits. Plus, I see so many styling videos on TikTok that I love, who's to say I can't be one of those people too - if you fancy checking them out, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@chloeharriets" target="_blank">you can find my TikTok here</a>.</div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Complete 5 paintings</h3><div>I've recently rediscovered my love for creating art. I've been getting out my paintbrushes more often. For Christmas this year I painted my boyfriend's dad a picture of his home village in Italy. It was a present I handed over with self-doubt, but now I see it proudly displayed in their kitchen, I share its pride. The majority of the time I paint a picture, it doesn't get finished. There is always more that could be done, especially when I paint for no reason other than the joy that the brush stroke on the paper brings me. But here's the thing, I don't think I'm bad at it. Out of practice yes, but bad no. In fact, if I put in the work, I think I could be pretty good at it. So this year I will finish 5 paintings, at least. Considering I still have almost finished pieces from years ago sat around, actually completing them is a pretty big deal for me. </div><div>I see creating art in my future so I'm going to lean into that. Who knows, maybe at some point I'll feel confident enough to start selling pieces. And if the pieces are a load of rubbish, I will have experience the peaces that the painting process brings me, so that's something.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Make 5 pieces of clothing that I actually wear.</b></h3><div>I used to sew a lot. Like I said, I've got a degree in fashion, but it's been a while since I've made anything larger than a hair scrunchie - however when I created <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates?ref=seller-platform-mcnav" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a> during the pandemic it did revive my love for sewing. More recently I've seen a lot of people creating their own clothes on TikTkok and it's made me think, why don't I do that. I know how to, I enjoy it, and I'll get some cool custom pieces of clothing (which will definitely help me have more fun with fashion). I figured it was the pattern cutting that was putting me off. It's the first step and for me the least enjoyable part. But I can pattern cut so until recently I going to do that part myself - and then I realised I can buy patterns. I can adjust them to make things more custom if I want to. But without that step, I feel so excited about it. There's no need to be put off by something, which I don't necessarily have to do. So I've bought myself some trouser patterns and I am excited to get sewing.</div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Actually, start my search for a literary agent and publisher</h3><div>This one links back into the first goal really. I think it's time to try a little harder to do something with that book I wrote (I'm pretty sure I've had this goal before, but who knows, this could be the year).</div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Go outside every day</h3><p>This is such a simple thing, that makes all the difference to my mental health. I'm working from home at the moment, and sometimes before I realise it I haven't been outside for a day or two. This year I'm going to make a conscious effort to get outside each day. To breath in the fresh air, and have a moment or two to take in nature. </p><p><br /></p><p>Have you set yourself any goals for 2022?</p><p>I'll be sure to update you on how mine are going as the year progresses!</p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-32009025428943585812021-11-05T15:45:00.004+00:002021-11-05T15:45:56.948+00:00Let's Catch Up...<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55laeduD0trU_a3wTFN9hQ_N883YT12xiUObPh9Kgxeg4Jzap6YoKmHIQbmz0QT1QJnEFJaVE3Lp2otyS_BxizYn3JoaK14X9plHGlC022vDMQHXEyXJqO1kG52LyPspj7ri_YNN-Ii8n/s2048/IMG_8318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1619" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55laeduD0trU_a3wTFN9hQ_N883YT12xiUObPh9Kgxeg4Jzap6YoKmHIQbmz0QT1QJnEFJaVE3Lp2otyS_BxizYn3JoaK14X9plHGlC022vDMQHXEyXJqO1kG52LyPspj7ri_YNN-Ii8n/w316-h400/IMG_8318.JPG" width="316" /></a></div><p></p><p>Hello, Hi, Hey. </p><p>It has been a while, at least it feels that way for me. But for me, it's a sunny Sunday morning, and I found myself thinking nothing would feel quite so satisfying as tapping out a good old fashion, chatty blog post. </p><p>I know it's been a while since I've blogged, but rest assured, I have not abandoned <a href="http://ChloeHarriets.com">ChloeHarriets.com</a> - I was working on stuff behind the scenes, you know, the more boring SEO stuff (pro-tip for any new bloggers: don't wait until you're five years into to learn about SEO), and then I got busy. But today, I fancied showing my face on here and found myself wanting to write for the sake of writing.</p><p>If you follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram (if you don't you should, you can find me here)</a> you'll know, there have recently been some changes in my life, big and small. </p><p>Firstly, a couple of months back I started a new job. My career is something I have struggled with for years. I've been in minimum wage jobs that made me feel so anxious that panic attacks became pretty common for me, I've completed unpaid internships which gave me hope. And I'd been job searching for well over a year, attended endless interviews to hear time and time again I didn't have the experience needed, despite the effort I'd put into building experience when I couldn't find somebody to employ me. But finally, I got a job offer. It's a digital marketing assistant which started a few months ago - so far, I'm really enjoying it. It's challenging in places, but I believe I am more than capable of doing a good job and seeing career growth from here. And there are other aspects of the job I could do with my eyes closed. I get to write blog posts, edit videos, and images and work on social media campaigns - all things which I do for fun in my free time.</p><p> I am feeling very happy and grateful. I feel like finally, my career is heading in the direction I've been attempting to steer it in for years. </p><p>I still have other dreams, other goals which I'll be working towards. I'm currently completing a life coaching course, as it's something my intuition has just been telling me to do for a while, and having been told by several friends that is something I'd be good at, I've decided to get learning - on completing my course I'll offer some sessions at low rates, or possibly free of charge to get feedback and build confidence. </p><p>I've also begun posting to <a href="https://youtube.com/channel/UCQUgMtxgpjyU_prTb2ExDUA" target="_blank">Youtube</a> again. I missed filming longer content. I like being able to chat to a camera and watch my life back, and short content like Reels and TikToks just wasn't cutting it for me anymore. I'm also trying to make my content as helpful as possible, filming sit down video where I share the thing which has to help me head towards are more mindful, fulfilling life. </p><p>Beyond work, life lately has also been pretty good. My new job has eased worries and diminished a feeling of purposelessness that I'd been battling for a while. </p><p>I have officially moved in with my boyfriend. After one lockdown apart, and one together, we decided we both prefer living together and it works well for both of us. We've done some decorating around the house, so you can expect some interior posts coming soon (if you have a small home, watch this space because I've learnt a thing or two along the way). There are more exciting house things coming, but I will reveal all at a later date. </p><p>Lately, life has been busy in a good way. It's felt exciting like things are moving forward in the best possible, way and I can wait to share this journey with you.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-73500760554411133982021-04-22T13:30:00.002+01:002021-07-22T13:24:09.530+01:005 Activities to Inspire Creativity | Sponsored Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHqS2Xrx5zNGVj80f30xGJgbt6jiBZT8hu4qftplhOOglWfoaw8HcKA4TCU0JmmE6arxsfXDvfR6CoGpRbUcVxcVtvotYpgY88VUdUVkH4M_H7-ti5rZbZ-Aq0ERGXGEjfiZ0vx4LkM3B/s1905/edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" border="0" data-original-height="1204" data-original-width="1905" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHqS2Xrx5zNGVj80f30xGJgbt6jiBZT8hu4qftplhOOglWfoaw8HcKA4TCU0JmmE6arxsfXDvfR6CoGpRbUcVxcVtvotYpgY88VUdUVkH4M_H7-ti5rZbZ-Aq0ERGXGEjfiZ0vx4LkM3B/s16000/edit.jpg" title="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELN159Whw3vZONXiIUFt2PeuqSKcmlDiJgtv9gIlyG5G70Gvz6eiDatb2-iKO1bizrvKnxybU4ROOC1T8j2iX8TKhAk3o2ox_IMPmjbiAljvWqmS0vXfXLnpJdMYlGHngWpdOjpOhk_hyphenhyphen/s1754/edit+4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELN159Whw3vZONXiIUFt2PeuqSKcmlDiJgtv9gIlyG5G70Gvz6eiDatb2-iKO1bizrvKnxybU4ROOC1T8j2iX8TKhAk3o2ox_IMPmjbiAljvWqmS0vXfXLnpJdMYlGHngWpdOjpOhk_hyphenhyphen/s16000/edit+4.jpg" title="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhUeEh92m3DuU17uv9OS1Mph4057zWzPMoHrDQughtyjmmvRYAy5fz8QkhqlBxrw2C2HhHnAfLgsGISSfFml7Z1JGi3LVSCtxo-MescltQUmytuirhaWW9b5m8jPddwFDZ8X92ArzwFc4/s1568/edit+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhUeEh92m3DuU17uv9OS1Mph4057zWzPMoHrDQughtyjmmvRYAy5fz8QkhqlBxrw2C2HhHnAfLgsGISSfFml7Z1JGi3LVSCtxo-MescltQUmytuirhaWW9b5m8jPddwFDZ8X92ArzwFc4/s16000/edit+2.jpg" title="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">As the world begins to ease back into normality, I've felt uninspired and lacking creativity. Being an introvert, after finally meeting up with friends I've wanted to do nothing but sit alone and play Sim 4, which let's be honest, as fun as Sims is, I don't aspire to be that girl who spends every evening playing computers game <i>(if you do, then you do you)</i>. Several years ago, I realised, I'm happiest when I'm creative, so I've decided to make an effort to find time for creativity, and to integrate creativity into my hobbies and day-to-day life.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> Finding the right creative hobby for you can be a struggle - so today in this blog post, I thought I'd share some activities that inspire creativity if like me you've been looking for a way to get those post lockdown creative juices flowing.</span></div><p><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">5 Activities to Inspire Creativity.</h1><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">1) Painting:</h3><div>Watercolours, acrylics, oil paint, or just a simple pencil drawing - I love it all. There's something special, and freeing about creating art especially once you let go of the outcome (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/staciejayneclark/" target="_blank">my friend Stacie is great at talking about this</a>).</div><div><br /></div><div><h3>2) Crafting for a get-together:</h3><p>As lockdown is easing in in the UK, and the sun seems to be shining for us, why not take advantage of this and combo social with creativity. We haven't seen our friends in a while, so even if you're just having two friends over for a BBQ in your garden, why not make the most of it and decorate for the event? It's a fun way to use your creative energy and it will make seeing your pals even more memorable. I personally love the idea of creating a theme and running with it. For a garden event (within the restriction rules), I'd love to go with an insect theme, creating bumblebee bunting throughout the garden, or ladybug cake topper - You can use <a href="https://designbundles.net/collections/ladybug-clipart" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ladybug clipart</a>, or <a href="https://designbundles.net/collections/bumblebee-clipart" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bumblebee clipart</a> to find the perfect designs, get out your scissors and glue and get creative. When your friends arrive, you can either keep the crafts out and get creative together, or just enjoy a catch-up amongst your bumblebee and ladybug decorated garden.</p></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3) Crochet:</h3><div>Crocheting is something I have spoken about on this blog many times (<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/07/5-hobbies-for-self-care-ad-gifted-items.html" target="_blank">see posts here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2017/04/new-day-knitwear-blogger-lunch.html" target="_blank">here</a>). It's one of those hobbies, that once you get the hang of it, it feels so natural and eases any tension, plus you get to create something lovely - I'm still chuffed <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CLxFizYBiA_/" target="_blank">I managed to crochet myself a jumper (you can see it here)</a>. Also if you love the look of crocheted bits, but hooks and yarns aren't for you, I often sell crocheted pieces on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a>. Crochet is a great one if you want to be great creative, but you also want to watch your favourite Netflix show - once you get into it, it doesn't feel as though it takes too much time away from you because it's that perfect in front of the TV hobby - I'd definitely recommend picking up a hook and some yarn, popping on a Youtube tutorial and giving it a go.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4) Photography:</h3><div>A creative hobby I've really been enjoying lately is photography <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">(which has left me obsessed with Instagram all over again, you can find my insta here)</a>. Photography is great because it makes you look for the beauty in everyday things. Whether it's phone photography, film photography or you're getting out your fancy DSLR, it all counts. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">5) Write:</h3><div>I've always seen myself as a writer <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2018/01/i-want-to-be-writer_12.html" target="_blank">(I wrote about my dreams of being a writer here)</a>, I think there's something therapeutic in putting thoughts onto paper, and there's magic in the storytelling aspect of writing. I like to write everything from <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/search/label/poetry" target="_blank">poetry</a>, to <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/search/label/think%20pieces" target="_blank">think pieces that share all of my unpopular opinions</a>. I find putting words on paper is a great way to be creative, you can keep what you write to yourself, in your journal if you want to the pressure away from the creative hobby too. It's therapeutic and I find empty my thoughts onto a page, which helps me make room for any other creative hobbies I want to embark on.</div><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe6StYbrkcw_8OdW-3zeQSKSSuijbJDDmtOn7W6C2oZnpJxAEjVwt7-X-7k8lVKjzJ0cVqELN0ZidV90EezuWWR0a6POim_jhmdru_MqZErEtu76ywmdk5hH6JzME0MhppwFAyL74EyiN/s1543/edit3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" border="0" data-original-height="1181" data-original-width="1543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe6StYbrkcw_8OdW-3zeQSKSSuijbJDDmtOn7W6C2oZnpJxAEjVwt7-X-7k8lVKjzJ0cVqELN0ZidV90EezuWWR0a6POim_jhmdru_MqZErEtu76ywmdk5hH6JzME0MhppwFAyL74EyiN/s16000/edit3.jpg" title="Activities to inspire creativity blog post - paint, art, crochet, writing, flowers" /></a></p><p>What's your favourite creative hobby? Let me know if any of these take your fancy.</p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-24468474225568147952021-02-15T18:30:00.074+00:002021-02-15T18:30:00.303+00:00Yoga with Adriene - 30 Day Journey, 'Breath' Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingmD3kTqaQzPTJ33sXSYEiEDZyMYlBvN_mNvySt1kJil8QwbOlJhDavIsI5pOifeeNPoB_7U9g3P7ftBzW7eegAvQHwhg-v8WaoPamtU9cmMVEHXmW3RWl33sdUONxlhP_1pNxTVb24XN/s1920/IMG_3755.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl doing at home yoga - Yoga with Adriene 30 Day Breath Challenge review" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingmD3kTqaQzPTJ33sXSYEiEDZyMYlBvN_mNvySt1kJil8QwbOlJhDavIsI5pOifeeNPoB_7U9g3P7ftBzW7eegAvQHwhg-v8WaoPamtU9cmMVEHXmW3RWl33sdUONxlhP_1pNxTVb24XN/s16000/IMG_3755.jpeg" title="Girl doing at home yoga - Yoga with Adriene 30 Day Breath Challenge review" /></a></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1ox-xG9yfHEhDBmPEKh_7LDgIkxaZyqTlFRyj9Zhyd4vcSrAlXDDlL7r6Jdw3594oZECX0364Vl8ke1KcUTm1UozNk2JctufvNeb3AGanxpqs0wljCPQfCG8NTs6Yle8cBDETuzNShwy/s1920/Untitled+design+%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl doing at home yoga - Yoga with Adriene 30 Day Breath Challenge review" border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1ox-xG9yfHEhDBmPEKh_7LDgIkxaZyqTlFRyj9Zhyd4vcSrAlXDDlL7r6Jdw3594oZECX0364Vl8ke1KcUTm1UozNk2JctufvNeb3AGanxpqs0wljCPQfCG8NTs6Yle8cBDETuzNShwy/s16000/Untitled+design+%25283%2529.jpg" title="Girl doing at home yoga - Yoga with Adriene 30 Day Breath Challenge review" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">In this blog post I wanted to share my review and thoughts on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpWa4LtKe4c&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzJ4NSTesh4xRWg4ZWNz5s4&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Yoga with Adriene 30 Day Breath Journey</a> which I completed during January 2021.</h2><div>My most popular blog post, is <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/02/yoga-with-adriene-30-day-challenge.html" target="_blank">this one</a> I wrote last February sharing my thoughts after completing a Yoga with Adriene 30 Day Challenge. On finishing the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWBfQjuwp4E&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzFFfpiil94CUrWKVMaqmkm&ab_channel=YogaWithAdrienehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWBfQjuwp4E&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzFFfpiil94CUrWKVMaqmkm&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">January 2020 yoga challenge 'Home'</a> I knew without a doubt it would become a tradition for me to each January to begin the year with 30 days of yoga. <p></p><p>So again I rolled out my yoga mat each day for 30 days as I welcomed 2021. As my last yoga journey blogpost was so popular, I thought it would be valuable for me to share my thoughts on completing my second 30 day yoga with Adriene challenge, and the comparison of yoga with Adriene's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpWa4LtKe4c&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzJ4NSTesh4xRWg4ZWNz5s4&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Breath Journey</a> which I've just finished and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWBfQjuwp4E&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzFFfpiil94CUrWKVMaqmkm&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Home journey</a> that I completed a year ago. </p><p>As you can imagine the two journeys are pretty similar with the same yoga moves which now feel familiar to me. Through each challenge Adriene offers the same kindness in her voice. She shares alternatives to the different poses making the sessions more accessible. Adriene always encourages you to find what feels good, listen to your body and trust yourself.</p><p>The major difference between the two journeys, was the anchor of breath in the 2021 30-day challenge. Throughout the practises, this challenge really focused on the breath, as it's name would suggest. Different breath techniques were taught, and in general the practises felt slightly slower and more meditative. Some practises we're more focused on breath than movement. Last year when completing my first 30 Day yoga challenge I found I enjoyed the practises which felt more like a workout, with the idea of 'the more movement the better', but this time around I found the slower pace refreshing, focusing on the breathwork meant I left the mat feeling in a relaxed haze. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Breath Journey Details</h2><div>Personally, I'd recommend completing the entire journey. For me it felt as though each day led into the next and prepared me for the practises to come. But if you'd like to pick and choose your practise below you can find some of my thoughts, and the facts on the individual sessions. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /><b>The shortest practise: </b></h4><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aCNiRAyOlI&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 20 - Pause</a>, where you do exactly that. This practise is just 16 minutes and 21 seconds. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>The longest practise:</b></h4><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVwyEtS_7OQ&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 30 - Begin</a> is the longest at 50 minutes and 59 seconds - however being the final day of the challenge, this practice is slightly different from the other, as Adriene turns off her microphone and you complete your own practise alongside her, unguided, using the tools you learned in the previous days. </p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSIp00SewO8&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 1 - Invite</a> is also slightly longer at 48 minutes and 12 second.</p><p><b>Averagely the sessions are around 20-25 minutes.</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>The most movement:</b> </h4><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAVOdXvdtk8&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene">Day 6: Burn</a> is the one to go to if you're in it for the work out. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmUAQIxZwXw&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 11 - Flow</a> offers pretty continuous movement throughout, as does <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sTZMSGurlg&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 12 - Drop</a>.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>For stillness:</b></h4><p><b></b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18oXIcsTpUY&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 8 - Snuggle</a>... the practise takes places entirely sat or laying on the mat. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aCNiRAyOlI&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Day 20 -Pause</a>, also offers exactly what it says in the title.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pros:</h2><p>- You can do it from home</p><p>- Don't really even need to change your clothes. The practises are fairly gentle, so on the days I was feeling super lazy, rather than change into my yoga clothes, I'd hop straight onto my mat in whatever I was wearing - it just makes it slightly more convenient.</p><p>- Alternatives offered so Adriene's teaching is accessible for all different abilities and experience levels. </p><p>- You can do it at a time that suit you.</p><p>- The videos are also educational teaching different breath techniques and mindfulness practises.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Cons: </h2><p>- No one to check your poses, or offer personal guidance reassurance.</p><p>- It does take commitment. Going into the challenge without fully committing is likely to leave you missing days and feeling guilty.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">On showing up.</h2><p>Personally for me I think carving out the time and showing up matters, more so than perfecting the poses <i>(as I'm sure you can see from the imagery in this blog post, my poses could still use some work)</i>. </p><p>You won't feel like doing yoga everyday for 30 days, but especially on those days you don't fancy it, afterwards you'll be glad you showed up, and see the value in taking that time for your body and mind.</p><p>In my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpWa4LtKe4c&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzJ4NSTesh4xRWg4ZWNz5s4&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">previous yoga challenge review blog post</a> I spoke about how to motivate yourself to show up, so I won't go into too much here, but I will say, I found it much easier to show up everyday this time around, knowing that I had once before found myself capable of dedicating time each day to yoga practise. This year, I went in the yoga journey knowing without a doubt a wouldn't miss a day. That doesn't mean that some days I didn't put it off until the end of the day, and some days I still found my mind distracted when on the mat - which for me only underlined the importance of the mindful practise.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">My results: </h2><p>This year I went into the journey feeling slightly more confident when it came to the yoga poses, having spent more time practising yoga overall. </p><p>In general balance is something I struggle with, practically down the left side of my body - however this was an area I saw improvement as the days went on. I became better at using my core, and using that push and pull of energy to create stability where I once would have felt wobbly. </p><p>Focusing on and following the breath during this challenge was something which, despite years of meditating, I, at first struggled with. But as the days when on, I found it easier to tune my body to the rhyme of my breathe and breathing through the nose began to feel more natural to me. I still think I could do some work on the breath techniques learnt, but it's set the foundation heading forward.</p><p>I complete yoga completely for my mind, but for those curious, I began to see a small amount of toning in my stomach come the end of the challenge. I also noticed I felt stronger, particularly in my arm (maybe from all of those planks)</p><p>There are still poses I wish I could do, but I am not there with yet (hello, crow pose) but overall I feel more confident when creating shapes in yoga, and feel much closers to the poses I once thought impossible for me. </p><p>More so than last year, I found this journey really helped with my mental health. I talk about it more in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2021/02/how-to-improve-your-wellbeing-little.html" target="_blank">this post</a> - but daily yoga is something which has really calmed my mind, and enabled me to manage anxiety and panic attacks.</p><p><br /></p><p>I'm sure you can tell from the imagery, my poses are far from perfect, but I am always striving for progress over perfection, for me it's about the journey. </p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Shop this blogpost:</h2><p><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brCug" target="_blank">Yoga Mat: John Lewis</a> - <a href="https://www3.next.co.uk/gl638s2/377608#377608" target="_blank">Leggings (old similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://www.hush-uk.com/merci-tee-grey-marl-pink-glitter/TEE267-020.html" target="_blank">Tee: Hush </a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brCzT" target="_blank">Sports Bra: Shock Absorber</a> - <a href="https://www3.next.co.uk/style/st593562/238421#238421" target="_blank">Grey Blanket (old similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brCAG" target="_blank">TV: Samsung Frame TV</a> - <a href="https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/tv-and-home-entertainment/tv-accessories/tv-stands-and-tv-units/one-for-all-wm-7471-420-mm-tv-stand-with-bracket-walnut-gun-metal-grey-10206657-pdt.html" target="_blank">TV Stand</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brCBG" target="_blank">Sofa: M&S</a> - <a href="https://www.made.com/huldra-wall-mounted-mirror-with-shelf-46-x-55cm-black-metal-wood" target="_blank">Mirror: Made.com</a></p></div>
<div data-sc-widget-id="EL-602a82471486e80d946b87f5"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-81059145675013464772021-02-01T18:30:00.001+00:002021-02-01T18:30:07.052+00:00How to Improve Your Wellbeing | Little Things That Improved my Mental Health During January 2021.<h3 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrOWdDTyGM_sH_sh3QSg5jlBMxtiLe3y_qPtEjAR_lwbZd3VSAoP03OoMO_CLqn6t9p0WKsHRe2vBO79_qHaWbr1v22QuAjBq-tOzZ_qJrM-7NTazmvKnk57nmMCgLtQArMfDWIF2HIML/s1920/IMG_3703+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrOWdDTyGM_sH_sh3QSg5jlBMxtiLe3y_qPtEjAR_lwbZd3VSAoP03OoMO_CLqn6t9p0WKsHRe2vBO79_qHaWbr1v22QuAjBq-tOzZ_qJrM-7NTazmvKnk57nmMCgLtQArMfDWIF2HIML/s16000/IMG_3703+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxGdrqL0XLxgR2diZkBin8Z_EXomh0xLVamnlAXTPiGEHgQlQ-wdZzWiry8TCwU7BdFZo9kIewh5lEVVKc3N7Rc5xLi0ECDZiFZ9wcgY25xtP9FWbEj4yyYYFalTEAvEG-jwYu9JcHDpK/s1920/IMG_3701+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxGdrqL0XLxgR2diZkBin8Z_EXomh0xLVamnlAXTPiGEHgQlQ-wdZzWiry8TCwU7BdFZo9kIewh5lEVVKc3N7Rc5xLi0ECDZiFZ9wcgY25xtP9FWbEj4yyYYFalTEAvEG-jwYu9JcHDpK/s16000/IMG_3701+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2YBJDUbN1wzhb8k6JVsC-b-2T6IizdinHtULsvNQJFlmpfczYGuM0JFTK1pXQglZPEH-nMbyCBxi8cpdiu6zXKSw_y_QsxDaQs8usdWFN_FzwrcUaS6sStzreYBbDtU59u7zULp2qPE7/s1920/IMG_3704+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2YBJDUbN1wzhb8k6JVsC-b-2T6IizdinHtULsvNQJFlmpfczYGuM0JFTK1pXQglZPEH-nMbyCBxi8cpdiu6zXKSw_y_QsxDaQs8usdWFN_FzwrcUaS6sStzreYBbDtU59u7zULp2qPE7/s16000/IMG_3704+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2R69OB2mD_NexKMAwx2dA45UU6ooiJa4Ba1GZUpXHyu05WlB_PvUIOTwN2z4hE8mSEqJPW_TXnREOXbUa1QbaaWcftvxrv2XLQ0pLj33TqLkJ1MU2mlO_QQuivIKwOYOwAc4XLIAFs-q/s1920/IMG_3714+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2R69OB2mD_NexKMAwx2dA45UU6ooiJa4Ba1GZUpXHyu05WlB_PvUIOTwN2z4hE8mSEqJPW_TXnREOXbUa1QbaaWcftvxrv2XLQ0pLj33TqLkJ1MU2mlO_QQuivIKwOYOwAc4XLIAFs-q/s16000/IMG_3714+%25283%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4FITgUc6rFiNvn4PrLqnsXTRtd1xvx7gaO-zMcAnHaG2N9HLYgkkUwwhOS9rllw490V-qJE9c8L7yseLi0-LZS2FpfO-IOWw_VvEB93fShfFIQWYq1iPSpFVCn5SsOsK5ECESSxT2RZ0x/s1920/IMG_3701+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4FITgUc6rFiNvn4PrLqnsXTRtd1xvx7gaO-zMcAnHaG2N9HLYgkkUwwhOS9rllw490V-qJE9c8L7yseLi0-LZS2FpfO-IOWw_VvEB93fShfFIQWYq1iPSpFVCn5SsOsK5ECESSxT2RZ0x/s16000/IMG_3701+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div><br /><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Towards the end of 2020 I wasn't having the best time with my mental health, I was having a panic attacks on a pretty regular basis. Going to the new year I decided to make sure I was putting as many little things in place to improve my wellbeing. Those little things have made all the difference. I felt it in myself and others have noticed it in me, my boyfriend and family have all commented on how my I've seemed happier, less anxious and more myself. So in this blogpost I wanted to share those little things I've been doing which have improved my wellbeing.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkE3VREGqjtqqrVQQXuw4Bsfry_RthQcl7MkwsP7gDk5psa2Vtfi9eofPXCowawBjEw4o-Dy8C1K3eFFhpruOXVIjJN-Q3VX6-x1yZanF9A8h6w1vELqp_x0twr-LJKMCsp4N7DpBujnwb/s1920/IMG_3707+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkE3VREGqjtqqrVQQXuw4Bsfry_RthQcl7MkwsP7gDk5psa2Vtfi9eofPXCowawBjEw4o-Dy8C1K3eFFhpruOXVIjJN-Q3VX6-x1yZanF9A8h6w1vELqp_x0twr-LJKMCsp4N7DpBujnwb/s16000/IMG_3707+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Simple steps I took to improve my wellbeing:</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Getting ready</span></h3><p><span>Lockdown has made me realise two things: Number one,</span> I feel better when I get ready. Number two, getting ready doesn't have to mean a full face of make up and uncomfortable clothes. Sometimes just not wearing what you slept in is enough to get you feeling good, and sometimes a smudge of red lipstick makes you feel like you can take over the world. As I'm not going many places recently <i>(hello lockdown)</i> I've got myself two pairs of slippers, onw for in the day around the house, a cat pair which I think look pretty fancy, and a pair of fluffy boots for when I'm cosying up in my pjs - a pair for day and a pair for evening - I'm surprised how much a different pair is slippers is making me feel less like a slob. Spending a little time in the morning getting ready help me feel in a routine and signals to my brain it's time for the day to start, and reminds me, even if I'm not going anywhere my purpose exists beyond watching Netflix in my jammies.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Asking for help when I want it</span></h3><p><span>I don't mean the big deal help here... not going to a therapist when you're hitting rock bottom<i> (although if you think you might need a therapist, you probably do, and you should look into it...)</i> but the small help. I very easily get overwhelm. For example if I'm cooking dinner as there's too many dishes around, it stresses me out, rather than continue to be stressed about dishes, and desperately searching for the kitchen space I need, I'm simply asking my boyfriend to help clear them up. Hanging the washing is a task I hate but rather than dread it every time, I can ask for a hand and get it done in half the time. It took starting to ask for help with the small things, to make me realise I can ask for help and realise that the majority of time, I only surround myself with people willing to help me. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Daily meditation</span></h3><div><span>One of the new habits I wanted to cultivate in January was more regular meditation practise, and I'm pleased to say I have kept it up everyday through the month, and I feel so much better for it. Those 10 minutes of mindful have impacted my entire day, allowing me to manage anxious thoughts. For those curious, I'm currently using the Calm app, but I have<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2019/02/4-meditation-apps.html" target="_blank"> a full blog post here</a> on meditation apps which I love.</span></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Daily yoga</h3><div><span>Last year in January I completed a 30 day yoga challenge which I <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/02/yoga-with-adriene-30-day-challenge.html" target="_blank">talk more about here</a>, well I've decided to make it a tradition. So this January I completed the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpWa4LtKe4c&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzJ4NSTesh4xRWg4ZWNz5s4&ab_channel=YogaWithAdriene" target="_blank">Yoga with Adriene 30 day breath challenge</a> and dedicating that time each day to my breath and body has really calmed my mind. It's movement that I enjoy.</span></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Fresh air, spending time in nature.</span></h3><div><span>Getting out and breathing in fresh air makes such a difference to how you feel. Spending time outdoors and feeling gratitude to the trees and the sky makes all the difference to my mood.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Keep track of finances </span></h3><div><span>Not knowing what's going on in my bank account can be major cause for anxiety. Rather than ignoring those numbers and hoping for the best, daily checks in with my online banking keep that anxiety at bay and allow me to plan where to spend and where to save. </span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Make small steps everyday</span></h3><div><span>When I look at the bigger picture, I tend to get overwhelmed but like most people, I have long term goals. I've tried to more days take steps towards making those goals feel more achievable, it doesn't matter how big the step as long as I'm moving. For example rather than feeling daunted by the huge task for writing a book, I just dedicate half hour to writing that book each day. It's comforting to know, that even if it's a slow process, I'm moving in the right direction.</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Taking vitamins </span></h3><div><span>Taking vitamins can actually impact how you feel, your energy levels and overall wellbeing, yet they are so easy to forget about. I got into the habit of taking iron and vitamin D and C each day with my breakfast. </span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Listening to the good stuff</span></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span>I've been trying to be more mindful of the content I'm consuming because it affects how I feel. During January I listened to some great podcasts that have brightened my days - <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2021/01/podcast-im-loving-2021.html" target="_blank">you can find out my current favourite listens here</a>.</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span><span>Making time for loved ones</span></h3><div><span>I know it sounds obvious but I think it was something I wasn't particularly good at until recently when I started making a conscious effort. I'm being sure to actually spend time with my boyfriend when he's home from work, to watch something together, to laugh together and really catch up, rather than finding myself busy elsewhere in the same room at him but actually not spending time with him. The same goes with catch up with family and friends who I can't see because of lockdown, I've been trying hard to put time aside to catch up on those phone calls, and send messages.</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Close tabs</span></h3><div><span>It's so simple, but so easy not to do. I always used to keep my tabs open and come back to the chaos (cough *3 ASOS tabs, 2 amazon tabs, an expensive bag, an article I'll probably never read etc). Rather than open my laptop to a fresh start. During January I've been taking those moments to close my tabs, and it feels good to start each day with a clean slate. </span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Keep things tidy</span></h3><p>My environment really impacts how I feel, so the month I have been making extra effort to keep on top of the cleaning and tidying ensuring my home is a nice place to be. 10 minutes before bed to make sure everything is in order downstairs, cleaning up as I go when I cook and Sunday bedding changes make all the difference.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVZYcg_xRFoyxZIfOAnI-TTsCT8iDUDhgZoB7vNYAUP1_tg5dFNLhocdVsT-bxJ-d7cI2ZbTOyY6ZNc5h15ECVILxr6TpCr1zuBhLM3glZgM5tWuSeCyjhMHkbdvAUqszxYCR_DPQgqMI/s1920/IMG_3711+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVZYcg_xRFoyxZIfOAnI-TTsCT8iDUDhgZoB7vNYAUP1_tg5dFNLhocdVsT-bxJ-d7cI2ZbTOyY6ZNc5h15ECVILxr6TpCr1zuBhLM3glZgM5tWuSeCyjhMHkbdvAUqszxYCR_DPQgqMI/s16000/IMG_3711+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Outfit Details: </h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brkqB" target="_blank">Tee: ASOS (similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brkp9" target="_blank">Skirt: New Look (similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://storeuk.taylorswift.com/*/*/the-cardigan-limited-edition/6TF90000000" target="_blank">Cardigan: Taylor Swift Merch</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brkpi" target="_blank">Beret: Primark (similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/brkpn" target="_blank">Shoes: Doctor Martens (similar linked)</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh741giTHnThs7_8d2KtEYQ_IvxkijpF55wT0gsYjbT-b3JesQ9YzZkZashcAPhZFawkULIH_XFODhdLFaw2WLqEfR4tyrWy95EOdB5NX4-EtTwXMde-quUSdqHEHUrLISSj1Mw7vIeLoBi/s1920/IMG_3708+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh741giTHnThs7_8d2KtEYQ_IvxkijpF55wT0gsYjbT-b3JesQ9YzZkZashcAPhZFawkULIH_XFODhdLFaw2WLqEfR4tyrWy95EOdB5NX4-EtTwXMde-quUSdqHEHUrLISSj1Mw7vIeLoBi/s16000/IMG_3708+%25281%2529.jpg" title="How to improve your wellbeing - little mental tips blogpost. Blogger girl chloe harriets in pink beret." /></a></div><p>*Affiliate links are used in this blog post</p>
<div data-sc-widget-id="EL-60180f22c09dd0285f511849"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script>
<div data-sc-widget-id="P-601810941486e83604f23a7c"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script>
Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-66373531903242475932021-01-25T09:30:00.001+00:002021-01-25T09:30:06.381+00:00Podcast I'm Loving - 2021<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcem2mnC6qVV9W4IxJVvM4i5yTCxmYsTCiiODhtyAVf4Zh6tau5Fwd89xvCY3u33O7ncfO5iPQ08HnM0S3P_zgnVltGWyeEyNhOfMNf-TOR33pB3lgb4vwoEh9-eOhDUBu2mbV2iMovzR/s2048/IMG_3648.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" border="0" data-original-height="1490" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcem2mnC6qVV9W4IxJVvM4i5yTCxmYsTCiiODhtyAVf4Zh6tau5Fwd89xvCY3u33O7ncfO5iPQ08HnM0S3P_zgnVltGWyeEyNhOfMNf-TOR33pB3lgb4vwoEh9-eOhDUBu2mbV2iMovzR/s16000/IMG_3648.jpg" title="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh96WM4e0fvGrPWOIHBMnrlam9mTUd8gwcHGYsgUq2ESJcLBFA90e3Q9I-zWi0H05rK3PDjMj7oPpYkw9IvGCVCVo7v1_86jxjVp_-Mf4dcL_n-1M-YDf6W5-XbSSSqIaMSotJj1gjcZXH6/s2048/IMG_3651.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh96WM4e0fvGrPWOIHBMnrlam9mTUd8gwcHGYsgUq2ESJcLBFA90e3Q9I-zWi0H05rK3PDjMj7oPpYkw9IvGCVCVo7v1_86jxjVp_-Mf4dcL_n-1M-YDf6W5-XbSSSqIaMSotJj1gjcZXH6/s16000/IMG_3651.jpg" title="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" /></a></div><p>If you're anything like me, you'll love plugging in your headphones and losing yourself in a good podcast. I've previously shared the podcasts some of my favourite podcasts <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2016/07/switch-on-your-listening-ears.html" target="_blank">in this blog post</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/my-2019-top-podcasts.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a>. Recently I've found some new ones I'm loving and I have rediscovered some old favourites so I thought it was time for an updated podcast recommendation post. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">So without further ado, here are my current favourite podcasts:</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.gemmastyles.com/podcast" target="_blank">Good Influence with Gemma Styles:</a></h3><div>Good Influence was a podcast which I immediately fell in love with on my first listen. In this podcast, the host, Gemma interviews guests on subjects that they are knowledgable about, that she believes we should all know more about. The topics have included money, comparison, food waste and more. It's educational and entertaining.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/charge-my-core/id1544980254" target="_blank">Charge my Core with Susie Bell: </a></h3><div>With the tagline, 'more soul, less scroll', Susie's podcast really does charge my core. A little disclaimer, Susie is an IRL and online friend of mine but if she were a complete stranger I know I'd still love this podcast. Susie podcasts either alone or with guests. She delves into deep subjects around digital wellness and self-discovery. It's such a refreshing listen. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYtL3yt4SLaCEGCwfmtgwn9Dnd8_VOSVNy5GHFkoDyfo4SYjGd_1jhmPMipYc1G8GD4K4qU29NdhsI6X5ldaKCd_GxHASNKyYD9uKcicSk7_EoUa7apiNvOoRaEn4V0nvcdwRJBKmTYJ1/s2048/IMG_3653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYtL3yt4SLaCEGCwfmtgwn9Dnd8_VOSVNy5GHFkoDyfo4SYjGd_1jhmPMipYc1G8GD4K4qU29NdhsI6X5ldaKCd_GxHASNKyYD9uKcicSk7_EoUa7apiNvOoRaEn4V0nvcdwRJBKmTYJ1/s16000/IMG_3653.jpg" title="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ravens-a-one-tree-hill-podcast/id1526997710" target="_blank">The Ravens:</a></h3><div><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ravens-a-one-tree-hill-podcast/id1526997710" target="_blank">The Ravens</a> is One Tree Hill Podcast (if you read <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2016/09/5-series-i-became-obsessed-with.html">this blog post</a> you'll know I love OTH, and in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/my-2019-top-podcasts.html" target="_blank">this post</a> you'll also know I'm also a big fan of the podcast <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/tree-hill-talk-one-tree-hill-podcast/id1116489860" target="_blank">Tree Hill Talk</a>). In this podcast, Dom and Simon watch each episode of One Tree Hill and discuss it. Simon is a long time OTH fan, and Dom has never seen the series. It has timed perfectly with when I wanted to rewatch One Tree Hill <i>(I'm obsessed, as I do with Gilmore Girls, I rewatch OTH every few years)</i>. Having listened to <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/tree-hill-talk-one-tree-hill-podcast/id1116489860" target="_blank">Tree Hill Talk</a> <i>(now feeling like I'm best friends with the hosts)</i>, I find it so interested to hear the comparison between the opinions of the two British guys who host Ravens and the three American girls who host Tree Hill Talk.<i> (Some very different Peyton & Brooke opinions). </i>I also really appreciate the British sense of humour in this podcast. The majority of the podcasts I listen to have American hosts or a more series subject matter - so the lighthearted, slightly out-there in-jokes in this podcast are much appreciated and always have me laughing along <i>(and wondering if anyone who is not British gets the jokes, because the humour is very British, which makes it feel like home to me)</i>. I love to hear Dom's predictions and Simons passion for Lucas Scott. Ravens is a part <a href="https://www.patreon.com/tenthirtyproductions/posts" target="_blank">10:30 Productions</a> who also have a Prison Break podcast, so if that's your thing you might also wanna give that one a listen. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLa__xNtSvIZMqb2UZQzKJCC4SHx_QaunWcIGHewIx1FMgYH8D5C_CR1ie8xfvvhZuxQe0MFIEctwpdLVhl0xnchkVrChFxMp3RaM19E6MbZnW04sG_RWtJv2qqoAe_NWsIfYQ0ERPDFRC/s2048/IMG_3654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLa__xNtSvIZMqb2UZQzKJCC4SHx_QaunWcIGHewIx1FMgYH8D5C_CR1ie8xfvvhZuxQe0MFIEctwpdLVhl0xnchkVrChFxMp3RaM19E6MbZnW04sG_RWtJv2qqoAe_NWsIfYQ0ERPDFRC/s16000/IMG_3654.jpg" title="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/at-home-with/id1228706016" target="_blank">At Home with Lily and Anna</a></h3><div>At Home with Lily and Anna is such a fun listen. The girls reformatted the podcast where they once used to visit guests homes, to a podcast where they chat from there own homes. Although I liked it before, I much prefer it this way. These days I'm enjoying more casual chatting podcasts over interview-style. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lilypebbles/" target="_blank">Lily</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theannaedit/" target="_blank">Anna</a> just both seem so lovely and genuine. Listening feels like being with friends. They begin by talking through their tops five of the week and in the second half of the podcast delve deeper into a specific subject. The episode on female friendship was one of my favourites. I also really love it when they invite their husbands on as special guests. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://sophiecliff.com/podcast" target="_blank"><br />Practical Positivity</a></h3><div>Practical positivity is hosted by Sophie Cliff (who is also known as The Joyful Coach). Practical Positivity does exactly as it says on the tin - it gives you practical tips on how to live a positive, more joyful life. I find this to be a particularly uplifting listen, and I love that the advice given is always actionable. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88z-2ZkgQLmgf1Cd2y7aTQ58xoNpSegqdxv1NOBG5GQJgzZFrYs17LcgRrCPhbprqTRY9Dycyxcw0yYC3Vi491oYgHg_R-XLoeECLSqwInk12TmaNxF3y1TedQ3p8JdG87rysC827-uv4/s2048/IMG_3646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88z-2ZkgQLmgf1Cd2y7aTQ58xoNpSegqdxv1NOBG5GQJgzZFrYs17LcgRrCPhbprqTRY9Dycyxcw0yYC3Vi491oYgHg_R-XLoeECLSqwInk12TmaNxF3y1TedQ3p8JdG87rysC827-uv4/s16000/IMG_3646.jpg" title="2021 Podcasts I'm Loving. At Home With Lily and Anna, Soul Sugar, Charge My Core etc" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/soul-sugar/id1451726179" target="_blank">Soul Sugar</a></h3><div>Now, this podcast did get a mention in my top podcast of 2019, however, I've recently rediscovered it and wanted to give it another shout out. Similar to At Home With Lily and Anna, the format of this podcast has changed. Rather than interviewing guests or chatting alone, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carrierad/" target="_blank">Carrie</a> is now joined by her husband <a href="https://www.instagram.com/alexthevagabond/" target="_blank">Alex</a> who (in this season) is co-hosting the podcast with her. They chat about all different things, but I always find the conversations to be open, vulnerable and insightful. I really enjoy hearing what they have to say. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.patreon.com/m/totalbettymedia/posts">Total Betty Media</a></h3><div>I've spoken about Total Betty Media before in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/my-2019-top-podcasts.html" target="_blank">this post</a> when they were It Takes Three Network. I still love their podcasts so I wanted to give them a little shoutout again. They've recently rebranded, but they still podcast about those nostalgic teen drama shows that we all love. They have covered every season of One Tree Hill in Tree Hill Talk which I mentioned earlier, and The OC in Let's Talk OC, they are currently halfway through Gossip Girl for their Three Gossip Girls podcast. They have also announced that A Friday Night Lights Podcast is coming - I've never seen the show so I'm super excited for this one.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What are your favourite podcasts? I'm always looking for some new listens.</div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-67728432255124058372021-01-18T09:30:00.044+00:002021-01-21T12:54:18.624+00:00My 2021 Word of the Year - Control.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8qGOgo0Z2cvtBw5oGB72kQWcV5NgwLrumwlA0eRq4I9bdkLLqm4pYdB5k8Xz_KiKtFOrCBvNpBng46dZ-FlOGlTG9ShCU4RVt84dcZxV9XrkShc_oNI8zOjPtanoDao1JBdQ4EknXQKK/s2048/IMG_3316.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8qGOgo0Z2cvtBw5oGB72kQWcV5NgwLrumwlA0eRq4I9bdkLLqm4pYdB5k8Xz_KiKtFOrCBvNpBng46dZ-FlOGlTG9ShCU4RVt84dcZxV9XrkShc_oNI8zOjPtanoDao1JBdQ4EknXQKK/s16000/IMG_3316.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpmXIjtWJogke5I5A1srKOKNbOKbmMMu0r9ckO1YeCOyhg_40NhsoqKqwti85rdVQ-bVFuuY9y33Vs1mQb8M9cgwfllL9lJlfO8ob-OLPDhvjAqa8s1WAH-MHFzaF3sXaOmubzEN63Jli/s2048/IMG_3315.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpmXIjtWJogke5I5A1srKOKNbOKbmMMu0r9ckO1YeCOyhg_40NhsoqKqwti85rdVQ-bVFuuY9y33Vs1mQb8M9cgwfllL9lJlfO8ob-OLPDhvjAqa8s1WAH-MHFzaF3sXaOmubzEN63Jli/s16000/IMG_3315.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5F8wvvua_kdQR9GzcNRgn_-MR_E53pCSQp0GoUAE1ltGs58_PpHWJyxlYaIjjjpI2yYq2uKIW3r170Q9Qt25cDpn-2iBU0ySlwWF7NMvSmHdTlhfY5JhCSwAsxo6bLSpS40ZJ0ygiepbc/s2048/IMG_3311.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5F8wvvua_kdQR9GzcNRgn_-MR_E53pCSQp0GoUAE1ltGs58_PpHWJyxlYaIjjjpI2yYq2uKIW3r170Q9Qt25cDpn-2iBU0ySlwWF7NMvSmHdTlhfY5JhCSwAsxo6bLSpS40ZJ0ygiepbc/s16000/IMG_3311.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I originally wasn't going to share this on here, but I've decided sometimes a stream of consciousness post is necessary. It's nice to look back on and in the case, it will be a way to hold myself accountable. </span></div><p>A few years ago, I noticed on Instagram, that when a new year came rolling around, some people choose a word for the year. I liked this idea, I mean, I like words and new year promises, so why wouldn't I? Yet several years passed and I did not choose my word - simply because I could not think of one worthy. I couldn't narrow down my hopes for an entire year into one word. </p><p>2020 came to an end, and more than ever I noticed the Instagram posts where people shared their chosen word for the coming year. Words like alignment, growth, trust, health were thrown around. They all sounded great, but none of them felt like the one for me. They didn't quite align with what I was in search of, what I wanted my focus to be over 2021. I began to think maybe it was time to admit defeat, another wordless year as no word felt fitting.</p><p>And then as warm water fell on me in the shower one day, a word came to me. I wasn't trying to think of the word at the time, yet there it was, as clear as day. Control.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why control?</h2><p>I've become one of those people who things just kind of happened to and don't happen for. It has been a long time since I felt like I've taken control, but in 2021, I'm determined to change that.</p><p>I'm not naturally someone who takes control. I'm quite happy to let my friend pick where we're going for dinner<i> (you know, back when we could do that)</i>, and my boyfriend can decide what we watch in the evenings <i>(until it's football, and then I spend my evening reading in a different room). </i>Usually, I don't take control, because I don't mind the outcome. But it seems my behaviour has leaked through to areas where the outcome matters to me. Sure, I don't mind whether we eat Italian or Mexican food, but I do mind how I'm spending my life day in, day out. Choosing (or not choosing) where we go for dinner should not feel the same as choosing (or not choosing) how I want to make a living. </p><p>I think control is a great word for me because I see two different sides to that coin. Having control can be a good thing, and letting go of control can be a good thing. I feel for years I've held my control in all the wrong places. I'm ambitious when it comes to my career, yet I don't really have one, that's an area where I need to take more control. On the flip side, I've had panic attacks in shops before, because there were too many people and I didn't know my way around - the lack of control overwhelmed me. That's an area where I shouldn't desire that sense of control to the point that I go into panic without it.</p><p>I was listening to a podcast recently, and one of the hosts said something along the lines of "there are many things around you that you can't control but the one thing that you always have control over is yourself, you actions and your mindset" and that stuck with me. Accepting I can't control outer factors, but can always control myself gives me hope. It makes me want to take action, rather than accept defeat. </p><p>I'm a big believer in manifestation and the law of attraction. I was listening to an audiobook on it recently and it spoke about both taking inspired actions and surrendering your wishes to the universe. Having faith. I like this idea that there's both a push and pull of energy. Places where control needs to taken and places where that control needs to be surrendered. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">You can control actions but not the outcomes. </h2><div>Sometimes control needs to be taken and then surrendered. For examples, I intend to take control of my career for applying for all the right jobs, but once I've completed the applications to the best of my ability, I've done my bit. I can't control what happens next, and I need to trust that the universe is on my side. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5zzpxp1MxOfbIwD1_r7d7WprDbsCrLyVoCn42AF6uGM5gHPY1FAmdWCJS_5y5ZnMwI8a5f2pJ6KqTmZDB5Rm__ISsANJN4hVNbBNLCingtFWNM7WGPaLmNkR0kA6BI3SdEZECvJylNjO7/s2048/IMG_3320.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="1445" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5zzpxp1MxOfbIwD1_r7d7WprDbsCrLyVoCn42AF6uGM5gHPY1FAmdWCJS_5y5ZnMwI8a5f2pJ6KqTmZDB5Rm__ISsANJN4hVNbBNLCingtFWNM7WGPaLmNkR0kA6BI3SdEZECvJylNjO7/s16000/IMG_3320.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">During 2021 some ways I will take control include:</h3><p>- Meditating on a regular basis - it's good for my mindset, and while I can't control my anxiety, I can control how I manage it.</p><p>- Doing the things I'm curious about - following my intuition.</p><p>- By not giving up on myself. </p><p>- Putting my time into making my book the best it can be to up my chances of finding a publisher</p><p>- I can control how I spend my time. Less scrolling, more reading, more moving, less lounging, etc </p><p>- What I'm putting into my body. I want to eat food which fuels me and leaves me feeling healthy.</p><p>- The media I consume. </p><p>- The actions I take. </p><p>- What I'm spending my money on. </p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Things I can't control, and how I can reframing negative thoughts:</h3><p>- Job rejections - rejection is just redirection.</p><p>- Political and world news. I can control how much of that media I consume, and what I share myself.</p><p>- What other people think of me - and at this point, I don't think I care. </p><p>- What the universe has in store for me.</p><p>- Other people.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCXxH3YdWlUxI5nK-C-R8WlSTAz1huPyr1akusIcVHaQDdUyPpHjrWNY2V6cFF4J6Ve2wLHjrX7euzUkf1CSd2W7wbBH6hh1X3vDS3tgwlp1xm7vQ3xgTjj21LAn9K7YYatlV7RXgkI9k/s2048/IMG_3330.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCXxH3YdWlUxI5nK-C-R8WlSTAz1huPyr1akusIcVHaQDdUyPpHjrWNY2V6cFF4J6Ve2wLHjrX7euzUkf1CSd2W7wbBH6hh1X3vDS3tgwlp1xm7vQ3xgTjj21LAn9K7YYatlV7RXgkI9k/s16000/IMG_3330.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrlaov0Hl6QB7Dx2yVx4CJC0JZr7RXJtzJURAUzJK3jKgwwhV_KYzQYqb8_O-fgpsUhtzZzArLrjp8EmYu41teGDbApWxHRnxb40x3bnSPVahBZRtjZ3gIpvtAMfloR1IiEWIdNk9IiAg/s2048/IMG_3319.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrlaov0Hl6QB7Dx2yVx4CJC0JZr7RXJtzJURAUzJK3jKgwwhV_KYzQYqb8_O-fgpsUhtzZzArLrjp8EmYu41teGDbApWxHRnxb40x3bnSPVahBZRtjZ3gIpvtAMfloR1IiEWIdNk9IiAg/s16000/IMG_3319.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Outfit Details</h1><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqLjE" target="_blank">Coat: M&S</a> - <a href="https://www.mintvelvet.co.uk/product/Pia-Print-Mesh-Midi-Dress/31744" target="_blank">Dress (worn under jumper): Mint Velvet (similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqLj6" target="_blank">Jumper: ASOS (similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqLkc" target="_blank">Bag: Coach (similar linked)</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/911791743/red-velvet-plait-knot-headband-christmas?ref=shop_home_active_26" target="_blank">Headband: Chloe Harriets Creates (my Etsy store)</a></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrALUBIjBm1y472bg98dmArb6ogTBhQAKsobIAQAA0C1baQNP0WiIPAlo4Lv2erw6r9q8Fz1PWQYPBEMz7UdkAeA9CBck2B4ZHxB85zuer_roaucED3reNyM9RSyokFy-CExK7YwfBX4e8/s2048/IMG_3329-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrALUBIjBm1y472bg98dmArb6ogTBhQAKsobIAQAA0C1baQNP0WiIPAlo4Lv2erw6r9q8Fz1PWQYPBEMz7UdkAeA9CBck2B4ZHxB85zuer_roaucED3reNyM9RSyokFy-CExK7YwfBX4e8/s16000/IMG_3329-2.jpg" title="blogger autumn winter outfit. Fashion blog post. Lifestyle blog post. 2021 word of the year - control." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you have a word of the year for 2021?</div><br />Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-57053630869997070482021-01-11T18:30:00.001+00:002021-01-11T18:30:11.219+00:00Every Book I Read in 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCOVgUuxmWhbvRDOjDjZk9nYw2Go9xU9vv8wIzSPbGsm64eRPslUhjSHb5NdFXu89Rz8PXDOVTHTjFYlx28Fqb35rrP94yn051ocOT1Fi1AfuKxhD9Lz-H_Mdy7wDUQB7G-f1rQ0DjMyc/s2048/IMG_3631.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCOVgUuxmWhbvRDOjDjZk9nYw2Go9xU9vv8wIzSPbGsm64eRPslUhjSHb5NdFXu89Rz8PXDOVTHTjFYlx28Fqb35rrP94yn051ocOT1Fi1AfuKxhD9Lz-H_Mdy7wDUQB7G-f1rQ0DjMyc/s16000/IMG_3631.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRcDM6VVv-zIxUiPabVf6Bazs4pu2h6esq4MDjWBcBwgDpfYtLXCGOT6a78lpgs5qwNJCpPq6Ckh8LI665qPAI1rYlKb81aCuSptKjaaiaOWKyx-_3rYxMSR5yCYE5iIMOxh4-2mQgOz-/s2048/IMG_3628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1461" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRcDM6VVv-zIxUiPabVf6Bazs4pu2h6esq4MDjWBcBwgDpfYtLXCGOT6a78lpgs5qwNJCpPq6Ckh8LI665qPAI1rYlKb81aCuSptKjaaiaOWKyx-_3rYxMSR5yCYE5iIMOxh4-2mQgOz-/s16000/IMG_3628.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JF4BzHOaH1aYsilZqZwuFJpRVkli6aDPBMlPvwgS0vaK56HLfMLamZG7-_N5KptATbqyc8GC2VjGhGsraHMr1JXstkyLbu5GtMsaFPtiKNAmaXjxUQ5BZbTQDjveYqdB6Q5saPzYV1Ur/s2048/IMG_3634.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1392" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JF4BzHOaH1aYsilZqZwuFJpRVkli6aDPBMlPvwgS0vaK56HLfMLamZG7-_N5KptATbqyc8GC2VjGhGsraHMr1JXstkyLbu5GtMsaFPtiKNAmaXjxUQ5BZbTQDjveYqdB6Q5saPzYV1Ur/s16000/IMG_3634.jpg" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">As I have done the last couple of years (see <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2018/12/every-book-ive-read-so-far-in-2018.html" target="_blank">my 2018 reads here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/every-book-i-read-in-2019.html" target="_blank">2019 reads here</a>) I wanted to begin the year by sharing a little about every book that I read last year, along with my ratings and links to any more in-depth reviews and thoughts.</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6bWfETEWMqClBSgV-f2RT6ShntdgOvLCigk_8ZDehfp-EpP83tdz597Ws1SiikYhr9cyZQII-XdWrZci8Ra66Bw-PvEJ7utKjs4jHi9jhiIeiYTBqqBu4_y2YePKy8_oGmNcESUnDHV3/s2048/IMG_3636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6bWfETEWMqClBSgV-f2RT6ShntdgOvLCigk_8ZDehfp-EpP83tdz597Ws1SiikYhr9cyZQII-XdWrZci8Ra66Bw-PvEJ7utKjs4jHi9jhiIeiYTBqqBu4_y2YePKy8_oGmNcESUnDHV3/s16000/IMG_3636.jpg" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">So without further ado, here's the lowdown on every book I read in 2020...</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3nlmeuU" target="_blank">An Edited Life by Anna Newton</a> </h3><p>I loved this guide on home, work and life organisation. I found the tips to be useful and <a href="https://www.theannaedit.com/" target="_blank">Anna's</a> tone to be relatable. I talk about it more <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_meNXa3GvDs&t=3s" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3bqHNbt" target="_blank">Good Morning, Good Life by Amy Schmittauer Landino</a> </h3><p>I listened to the audiobook of this guide on how to make the most of out of your mornings. I found it had some great tips and made me want to spring out of bed in the mornings - however a lot of the tips and content you could get from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/savvysexysocial" target="_blank">the author's Youtube Channel</a>.</p><p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XhDruU" target="_blank">The Best of Me by Nicolas Sparks</a> </h3><div>This is your typical Nicolas Sparks tear-jerker romance, so naturally, it had me hooked and I loved it. I talk about it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_meNXa3GvDs&t=3s" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2Lo9Jl6" target="_blank">Atomic Habits by James Clear</a></h3><div>Atomic habits is another one I listened to the audio version of. The book shares the science behind and the benefit of small daily habits. It discusses how to create new habits, and break the bad ones. I found it really insightful.</div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3nlRCJK" target="_blank">Nothing More by Anna Todd</a></h3><div>Nothing More is the spin-off to Anna Todd's After series (<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/every-book-i-read-in-2019.html" target="_blank">which I talk about here</a>). It focuses on the life of the character Landon. Considering I couldn't put After down (despite all of its flaws) I had higher expectations for this, but if I'm honest, I just found it to be boring (I didn't like Landon's character much in the after books so I guess I should have expected this).</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★☆☆☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/38h7Lfs" target="_blank">The Course of Love Alain De Botton</a></h3><div>The book tells a realistic story of a relationship, it's written in a thought-provoking, philosophical style. Despite being undeniably beautifully written, I didn't feel much connection to the characters or the narrative. I talk it more in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/04/what-ive-been-reading-book-reviews.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a>.</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://amzn.to/2XhgdFa" target="_blank">Wild by Cheryl Strayed</a></b></h3><div style="text-align: justify;">I absolutely adored this memoir about Cheryl Strayed journey hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. It's full of life lessons and I couldn't put it down. <span style="color: #1779a5; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px;"> </span></span>I talk it more in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/04/what-ive-been-reading-book-reviews.html" target="_blank">this</a> blog post.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px;">★★★★★</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XicW8G" target="_blank">My Life in Thirty-Seven Therapies by Kay Hutchinson</a> (*gifted)</h3><p>In this memoir, the author talks about how she turned to alternative therapies - from yoga to tarot card reading and so much more. I found this lighthearted read really enjoyable. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/04/my-life-in-thirty-seven-therapies-by.html" target="_blank">You can read my full review here</a>. </p><p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XjoDvu" target="_blank">The Kissing Booth by Beth Reekles</a> </h3><div>After watching the Netflix film, I had to give this one a read. This YA novel tells the stories of a young relationship between a girl and her best friends brother. Although I didn't love the relationship (kinda... toxic) I found it to be an enjoyable, lighthearted read. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/what-ive-been-reading-2020-summer-books.html" target="_blank">I talk about this more here</a>.</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3bhDoau" target="_blank">The Kissing Booth Going the Distance by Beth Reekles</a> </h3><div style="text-align: left;">In the second instalment in The Kissing Booth series, the couple navigates physical distance within their relationship and new characters come into the story. Again, I found it to be an enjoyable (albeit frustrating) read. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/what-ive-been-reading-2020-summer-books.html" target="_blank">I talk about this more here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/35fqANX" target="_blank">Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott</a> </h3><div>Five Feet Apart tells the story of two teens with Cystic Fibrosis, who fall in love. Their illness means they cannot get with five feet of each other without the chance of it being fatal. I could not put this book down, I loved everything about it. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/05/five-feet-apart-book-film-review.html" target="_blank">You can read my full review here</a>.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XfNXTh" target="_blank">We of the Forsaken World... by Kiran Bhat</a> (*gifted) </h3><p>We of the forsaken world tells several stories about the different facets of humanity and environmental impacts. The stories range from the tales of a remote tribe, a town destroyed by an industrial spill and more. It's not my usual style read, but I found this book to be interesting and thought-provoking. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/what-ive-been-reading-2020-summer-books.html" target="_blank">I talk about this more here</a>.</p><p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></p><p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/38jf6eo" target="_blank">Find Me by André Aciman</a> </h3><div>This is the second instalment to Call Me By Your Name (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeQ-OHhHN0A/" target="_blank">which I talk about here</a>), however, the majority of the way through it felt like a completely unrelated story, and I began to enjoy it more when I stopped thinking of it as "Call Me by Your Name 2" and instead thought of it as it's own thing. This book tells several, quite lovely love stories and is very beautifully written. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/what-ive-been-reading-2020-summer-books.html" target="_blank">I talk about this more here</a>.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/38jJYvp" target="_blank">The Map From Here to There by Emery Lord</a> </h3><p>The Map From Here to There is the second instalment after <a href="https://amzn.to/35ulA8n" target="_blank">The Start of Me and You</a>. This young adult novel follows Paige, her boyfriend and their group of friends as they face many decisions about the future (colleges etc), juggling school, work and social life, alongside living with mental health struggles. It was an enjoyable read, however, I didn't feel I could relate to the characters as a woman in her late twenties. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/what-ive-been-reading-2020-summer-books.html" target="_blank">I talk about this more here</a>.</p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XdFbFt" target="_blank">Why I Am No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge</a></h3><div>I listened to the audiobook of this and would strongly recommend it - I think everyone should read it. I felt it really educated me on my white privilege and how to use that. It also taught me a lot of the history which we aren't taught in school and the importance of anti-racism. It is written in an intelligent yet easily digestible way, but given the content, it is still quite a heavy read, while also being very important.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3nkYQh2" target="_blank">A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness</a></h3><div>This book felt very special, I've never read anything like it before. It's written in the perspective of a child, with a vivid imagination, going through a troubled time, with sick mum. He is visited by a monster during the night, who tells him stories. It's really special. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/what-ive-been-reading-2020-summer-books.html" target="_blank">I talk about this more here</a>.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3oxI1Bj" target="_blank">She Means Business by Carrie Green</a></h3><div>I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of this self-help book. The author shares tips on running a business, and motivation and working towards your dreams. I found it to relatable and useful.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★☆☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3hLLiKF" target="_blank">Harry Potter & the Philosopher's Stones by JK Rowling</a></h3><div>My boyfriend and I decide to make our way through the Harry Potter audiobook for nostalgia reasons. I assume I don't need to go too far into the summary of this one? <i>(It's about a boy who finds out he's a wizard...)</i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/38jfJVi" target="_blank">My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing</a> </h3><div>I enjoyed this thriller style book far more than I expected it. There's a twist at end of the first chapter which got me hooked. It tells the story of a seemingly normal couple, who share some secrets, and each has secrets of their own. I also really loved the ending of this. </div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/38jB0hN" target="_blank">Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli</a></h3><div>Stargirl was a book I really loved. It's the story of what happens when Stargirl, who is different from anyone he's met before, joins Leo's highschool. Everyone is fascinated by Stargirl and this impact how Leo treats her.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3pVJba0" target="_blank">Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets by JK Rowling</a></h3><div><i>This is the one with a wizard boy and a really big snake...</i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3hUBVZ1" target="_blank">Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban by JK Rowling</a></h3><div><i>Wizard boy spends time at wizard school with wizard friends and a prisoner has escaped from wizard prison...</i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3biFLd9" target="_blank">Get Rich Lucky Bitch by Denise Duffield-Thomas</a></h3><div>I listened to the audiobook of this self-help guide to manifesting money. I found it to have some great tips and really enjoyed the author's tone of voice throughout the book.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3bfUBBc" target="_blank">The Potion Diaries by Amy Alward</a></h3><div>To me, The Potion Diaries felt like a more lighthearted version of The Hunger Games. It's the story of an Alchemist who is put forward to enter a competition to create a potion to cure the Princess, who has fallen in love with her own reflection. There are also more books in this series, which I do intend on reading in the future.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XhwQAs" target="_blank">Lucky Bitch by Denise Duffield-Thomas</a></h3><div>This is Denise Duffield-Thomas's guide on manifestation and the story of how she manifested the trip of a lifetime. I found this read to be really interesting and insightful.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2L8q8dx" target="_blank">The Love Square by Laura Jane Williams</a></h3><div>This rom-com is about Penny who finds herself caught in a love square, going from having no men in her life, to having three different men in her life who each have different qualities. It's a very lighthearted, fun read.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/38kSnyB" target="_blank">The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne</a> </h3><div style="text-align: left;">I found this young adult novel to be really touching and educational. It tells the story of Amelie as she is facing a breakup, and decided to revisit the places she's cried in public since entering the relationship which she believed to be wonderful, that was actually toxic. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/12/the-places-ive-cried-in-public-by-holly.html" target="_blank">You can read my full review on it here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3oxJI1D" target="_blank">No Turning Back by Tracy Buchanan</a></h3><div>I couldn't put down this thriller. It's about a woman who accidentally kills a boy whilst protecting her child and a serial killer making their comeback. It's full of twists and turns. I didn't for a second expect the ending but found it very satisfying.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2JNqFRw" target="_blank">Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli</a></h3><div>The second book in the Stargirl series does not feature Leo's character at all, instead, the story is told in letters to him written by Stargirl. Stargirl talks about her life in a new town with new characters. I found this book to be just as enchanting as the first in the series. </div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2JTAf5A" target="_blank">Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King</a></h3><div>This is a guide to the importance of living a positive life, using the law of attraction and the importance of your energy. It's a great, easily digestible guide, and is pretty enough to work as a small coffee table book.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/396hqVk" target="_blank">The Midnight Library by Matt Haig</a></h3><div>I listened to the audiobook of this, but I loved it so much that I'm considering buying a physical copy so I can read it too. The Midnight Library is the place Nora Seed enters after attempts to take her own life, it is the place between life and death. When Nora is here, she has a chance to relive her life, as it would have panned out if she made different decisions. It's thought-provoking and beautifully written.</div><div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2JOd3FG" target="_blank">Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid</a></h3><div>Daisy Jones and The Six is about a (fictional) popular 70s band. The book is written interview style, through the comments of different band members and the people around them, showing how everyone remembers the experience differently.</div><div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★★★</span></div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3nePbc0" target="_blank">Outer Order, Inner Calm by Gretchen Ruben</a></h3><div>I listened to the audiobook of this to help encourage me to do some end of year tidying and found it was full of good tips, despite being very condensed. It was a very quick listen.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2XihR9E" target="_blank">Feminist Don't Wear Pink & Other Lies by Scarlett Curtis</a></h3><div>Technically this one is a bit of a cheat because I read quite a lot of the essays in 2019, but 2020 was the year I finished, so I think it counts. This is a book of essays on feminism which are educational and empowering. </div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2L6pk9a" target="_blank">Super Attractor by Gabrielle Bernstein</a></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Super Attractor is a spiritual guide on manifestation. I found it to be slightly more woo than the other books on manifestation I've read, as it refers a lot to angel guides a lot throughout - but I found it to be really interesting.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">★★★</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;">☆</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd3sDeEVWFrh8al260Tewb2T1ThKJp2MO5IhpXNYP_65R5wwthzNEUNnvbvWxzPX7A6e-0fXzJUO6Ph_0lKylJ2Fo0HckxN2X_2upLEz-ww0OyRtorELokCfwKjbC7rNW3w1TZU-cm2D4E/s2048/IMG_3636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd3sDeEVWFrh8al260Tewb2T1ThKJp2MO5IhpXNYP_65R5wwthzNEUNnvbvWxzPX7A6e-0fXzJUO6Ph_0lKylJ2Fo0HckxN2X_2upLEz-ww0OyRtorELokCfwKjbC7rNW3w1TZU-cm2D4E/s16000/IMG_3636.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdMaWU3tRVHVldwxB3Jp9GRq_LtnA-FOk3Vr0niKw9TFRbESKrcWGEack7JBYn5YeXfrUWrDFuR-7U147eY9JMx7r12WWhC48sTOxEiDmVAjgFLY-lWGv7jDXbYLm0Uq_8vbTO8NltjCx/s2048/IMG_3626.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdMaWU3tRVHVldwxB3Jp9GRq_LtnA-FOk3Vr0niKw9TFRbESKrcWGEack7JBYn5YeXfrUWrDFuR-7U147eY9JMx7r12WWhC48sTOxEiDmVAjgFLY-lWGv7jDXbYLm0Uq_8vbTO8NltjCx/s16000/IMG_3626.jpg" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitO-1DN0g4AMW4kXnkYhhWVB-G0F7_knIzkxeS4lNIo26ypRl7fnOb5RBCwzSaJFI8pR28SoTfc5jSszR23_IvFx0yXtFMo1Ln5Ft1aX4iWUzoROo89HNxE1Sua7Up4AdZUG4wYn5OVEb6/s2048/IMG_3643.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitO-1DN0g4AMW4kXnkYhhWVB-G0F7_knIzkxeS4lNIo26ypRl7fnOb5RBCwzSaJFI8pR28SoTfc5jSszR23_IvFx0yXtFMo1Ln5Ft1aX4iWUzoROo89HNxE1Sua7Up4AdZUG4wYn5OVEb6/s16000/IMG_3643.jpg" /></a></p><p><br /></p>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-65472906017254080942021-01-04T09:30:00.002+00:002021-01-04T11:57:10.412+00:00Daily Habits for January 2021 | Goals & Intentions for a New Year.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1PVU2H5sOsNaxQ0u7oep_CbC4Rxch2hJhoHsTypmF8M4U_uJGbziPVeD270-IcH7kZFIy3hh5y1Eu-13R8fUQasjrtOJ-ksfjEG0y8gnb0VZKmXbcSvEckBwCwwlTWvyjV4ouSH-0Ehf/s2048/IMG_3613.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1PVU2H5sOsNaxQ0u7oep_CbC4Rxch2hJhoHsTypmF8M4U_uJGbziPVeD270-IcH7kZFIy3hh5y1Eu-13R8fUQasjrtOJ-ksfjEG0y8gnb0VZKmXbcSvEckBwCwwlTWvyjV4ouSH-0Ehf/s16000/IMG_3613.jpg" title="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rIpnDlHuRf_X7D1RQ_RTAqSthXAkld3hsq-QqqDD_h9HmbfJPr-B4AzatXV_z-oPFVpTgTXM4p7rQAk_pfcu5JNnr89BbU9JTN8FiL0NjAW74451N4xd-C9E9Ls3gx4RPZ6NZGFci3Ym/s2048/IMG_3609.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rIpnDlHuRf_X7D1RQ_RTAqSthXAkld3hsq-QqqDD_h9HmbfJPr-B4AzatXV_z-oPFVpTgTXM4p7rQAk_pfcu5JNnr89BbU9JTN8FiL0NjAW74451N4xd-C9E9Ls3gx4RPZ6NZGFci3Ym/s16000/IMG_3609.jpg" title="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQ-grjoZWwGU7pr6xxt18cq0B0o-XTNI1oDleyT1mMLWQ8v5O5JnLyaxjywFqtHn8jksyGqhFgpnXsRl4ydGUxjc0x7ryizkJ1kWMoro-E-tiwgQxrIZjYcB8ViJ5_I20Tf8PjRAqzfPk/s2048/IMG_3606.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQ-grjoZWwGU7pr6xxt18cq0B0o-XTNI1oDleyT1mMLWQ8v5O5JnLyaxjywFqtHn8jksyGqhFgpnXsRl4ydGUxjc0x7ryizkJ1kWMoro-E-tiwgQxrIZjYcB8ViJ5_I20Tf8PjRAqzfPk/s16000/IMG_3606.jpg" title="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjHd0tMSMQPG8XhoxyWiuQ_ttmv4ShcUCtw-dtoJuZE1JppqUwXmZ4fd1L-W70xV2K3T12IMSSDOaxijvVW2pi2eInz9aMqlr4gadOnwbajZKnz4EAhmPMRVbFNvW98iAarbfnqGRDymE/s2048/IMG_3608.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjHd0tMSMQPG8XhoxyWiuQ_ttmv4ShcUCtw-dtoJuZE1JppqUwXmZ4fd1L-W70xV2K3T12IMSSDOaxijvVW2pi2eInz9aMqlr4gadOnwbajZKnz4EAhmPMRVbFNvW98iAarbfnqGRDymE/s16000/IMG_3608.jpg" title="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">As we head into a new year I like to take the time to reflect on what I want from the coming year, and the person I'd like to be (which you'll be able to read more about in my 2021 intentions blog post</span><i style="text-align: left;"> - coming soon)</i><span style="text-align: left;">, I think it's important to set goals to ensure personal growth, yet I find setting goals for the entire year is great but it can also be overwhelming. We only achieve our goals on step at a time, day by day. Most of our long term goals, tend to be slow burners so with that in mind, I've been thinking about how I can start by putting my best foot forward, with the small (or maybe big) things I can do daily throughout January to build habits to help me become that person I'm striving towards.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAFWBd_8B-ck62vkzc4GsIFDfAeBuMKf0k6FIkyhR9cJFyr2kFae43EGW6UmIwz9PVE5UFqva1Ce6Ca4sbuwnz-VbXEGb-4ik2GEgWcfUhy0uhUZHXOQ_8guwd5OxIvxG8BumH87NVqVJ/s2048/IMG_3604.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAFWBd_8B-ck62vkzc4GsIFDfAeBuMKf0k6FIkyhR9cJFyr2kFae43EGW6UmIwz9PVE5UFqva1Ce6Ca4sbuwnz-VbXEGb-4ik2GEgWcfUhy0uhUZHXOQ_8guwd5OxIvxG8BumH87NVqVJ/s16000/IMG_3604.jpg" title="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Yoga </h2><p>If you read <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/02/yoga-with-adriene-30-day-challenge.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a> of mine, you'll know I began last year with a 30-day yoga challenge, and I sure as hell plan on doing the same thing this year. Yoga helps me feel mindful, grounded and connected to both my mind and body, and that's something I want to take forward with me into 2021. I'll be doing the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/yogawithadriene" target="_blank">Yoga with Adriene</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpWa4LtKe4c&list=PLui6Eyny-UzzJ4NSTesh4xRWg4ZWNz5s4" target="_blank">Breath Challenge</a> through January.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Reading</h2><p>I always tell people I'm a slow reader because although I read often, as I often find it takes me ages to finish a book - I recently realised something - it's not that I'm slow, it's that I don't dedicate much time to it. Sure I'll pick up my book before bed, but I don't actually go to bed any earlier to allow time to read, so my eyes are closing after just a page or two. I've decided this year to up <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/85594831-chloe-hayfield" target="_blank">my Goodreads</a> goal to 50 (it was 35 for 2020) - it's quite a jump but there are so many books which I'm longing to read, plus, I'd like to challenge myself. There's nothing like getting lost in a book after all. So in January, I'm going to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Instagram posts </h2><p>Growing <a href=" https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">my Instagram</a> will be a focus of mine for 2021 because I believe I share valuable content over there and deserves to be seen. Sure there's room for improvement, so I'll be working on making my content the best it can be. I'm going to be posting daily on both my grid and stories. In January I'm really going to put myself out there, on the gram, to build a community of like-minded people (if you fancy checking out my insta, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">you can find it here</a>)</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Meditation </h2><p>I discovered meditation many years ago and fell in love with it - I've dipped in and out of it since. In 2020 life just seemed to get in the way I stopped sparing those 10 minutes to meditate. During January 2021 I want to get into daily meditation - I know those mindful10 minutes each day will do wonders for my wellbeing. If you're curious to which meditation apps I use, I wrote a blog post on my favourite ones a couple of years ago <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2019/02/4-meditation-apps.html" target="_blank">which you can find here</a>.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Going outside </h2><p>Sometimes I almost forget there's a world outside my home, which is crazy because I know being in nature does great things for my mental health. Every day in January I want to be sure at the very minimum to step out my front door, go for the a wanders, appreciate nature and breath in the fresh air. </p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Journalling </h2><p>Journalling is another one of those good for my mental health things that I don't do enough. Even if it's just a line of two, every day during January I plan on getting my thoughts out on paper.</p><p><br /></p><p><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />To hold myself accountable I will post an update at the end of the month and I will use the habit app keep track.</p><p><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">Outfit Details</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERrqNnjrzr0QWpceQ_-Stpd2PVuOcwg1LidJpQFOpM3jrtIw6B47FUXP54p38oK22eyBuTLE1ffH1QzP-_IrKVlgAP9eWS-1TbtA2uakz_ARiJnZymk6WhOjZgHZqoFvFRpbQJZEJYFry/s2048/IMG_3610.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERrqNnjrzr0QWpceQ_-Stpd2PVuOcwg1LidJpQFOpM3jrtIw6B47FUXP54p38oK22eyBuTLE1ffH1QzP-_IrKVlgAP9eWS-1TbtA2uakz_ARiJnZymk6WhOjZgHZqoFvFRpbQJZEJYFry/s16000/IMG_3610.jpg" title="Girl dressed in coat, hat & scarf, in nature. January 2021 habits and goals blog post" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqnR8" target="_blank">Coat: M&S</a> (similar linked) | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqnSc" target="_blank">Hat: M&S</a> | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqnSf" target="_blank">Scarf: M&S</a> | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqnT4" target="_blank">Boots: Doctor Martens</a> (similar linked)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><p><br />What habits do you want to keep up through the month?</p><p>Wish me luck!</p><p><i>*affiliate links are used in this blogpost. </i></p><div><br /></div>
<a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-25493119119506088052020-12-28T18:00:00.003+00:002020-12-28T18:00:00.352+00:00My 2021 New Year Admin Checklist | Life Organisation<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrYNpyNrA9bQWUV2aW7sVVCqYCQVktT41BsNw-NAml_q7mrxo35TuPWF0EVMVxu8ELQkD4vRXGAAMMToSefBDsnW-qutWtvQU4KjPALsXNf_Jg5haDoZH6CYIZDSz8QLYDNCPLf66Kpdp/s2048/IMG_2472.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Smiling Blogger Girl - getting organised for a new year - new years admin blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1689" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrYNpyNrA9bQWUV2aW7sVVCqYCQVktT41BsNw-NAml_q7mrxo35TuPWF0EVMVxu8ELQkD4vRXGAAMMToSefBDsnW-qutWtvQU4KjPALsXNf_Jg5haDoZH6CYIZDSz8QLYDNCPLf66Kpdp/s16000/IMG_2472.jpg" title="Smiling Blogger Girl - getting organised for a new year - new years admin blogpost" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2JEZe_VU7zKLyoaEuyGphaRODh4g9vd9ZWhVclOztp1IND7cqBALftwT2Gzb83D-8I-J6khGKkHkjd9yEwXj0OL9CAW8Elgs-rNle-Ff6Hy1jdErXAHujJes-xL2hxs0tehd7FewY0eO/s2048/IMG_2474.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Smiling Blogger Girl - getting organised for a new year - new years admin blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2JEZe_VU7zKLyoaEuyGphaRODh4g9vd9ZWhVclOztp1IND7cqBALftwT2Gzb83D-8I-J6khGKkHkjd9yEwXj0OL9CAW8Elgs-rNle-Ff6Hy1jdErXAHujJes-xL2hxs0tehd7FewY0eO/s16000/IMG_2474.jpg" title="Smiling Blogger Girl - getting organised for a new year - new years admin blogpost" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>With Christmas gone, and a new year approaching, we're currently in that stage of limbo, where you don't really know what day it is, you're diet consist of mainly of cheese and chocolate and you can't remember the last time you changed out of your PJ's.<p></p><p>Whatever you fancy doing in this time, you do you. If you want to relish in doing nothing, go for it but this blog post might not be the one for you. I sit firmly in the camp of overly enthusiastic when it comes to a new year, but I understand some people are the total opposite and really couldn't care less about the change of dates. </p><p>Personally, I find after Boxing Day there's only so much more watching Netflix, doing puzzles and eating pringles I can do. I get itchy to prepare for the New Year (which again is not something you need to do if you want to carry on as you've been going). But I love any excuse for a new start. I like to begin a year feeling both organised and hopeful for what's to come. I like to use the end of a year as the push I need to catch up on the life admin I've been putting off, so I can go into the new year with what feels like a clean slate. Each year I write myself a list of admin to complete before the new year, or within the first week of January, this year I thought I'd share it.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">My 2021 New Year admin checklist:</h2><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Organise my space:</b> </h4><div style="text-align: left;">Decide how I'm storing any Christmas gifts, my belongings should have their own home within my home. Get rid of the worn things I no longer want or need. Go through drawers and reduce clutter.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Give my phone a spruce up:</b> </h4><p>Change my phone background and rearrange my apps. Delete the ones I don't need. Go through my photos and delete those accidental selfies and unnecessary screenshots.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Write a to-read list:</b> </h4><p>Get excited about the book I plan on getting lost in the new year. I also set <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/85594831-chloe-hayfield" target="_blank">my Goodreads</a> goal for the year.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Plan my blog content:</b></h4><p> I always get the blogging bug back when a new year comes along - while I feel inspired I like to do as much blogging and planning as I can.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Go through my finances:</b> </h4><p>Check if there are any direct debits I can cancel. Plan my budgets for the coming months.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Unsubscribe to unwanted emails:</b> </h4><p>Get the inbox back down to 0, and stop the junk coming back.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Put any dates into my diary for next year:</b> </h4><p>I don't want to be forgetting friends birthdays or missing appointments.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Go through my laptop:</b> </h4><p>Clear unwanted files, put photos onto a hard drive, organise files.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Social media maintenance: </b></h4><p>Check bios are up-to-date, unfollow and mute accounts I don't love, change any profile pictures that need changing.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Check all tech is up-to-date:</b> </h4><p>Finally, do that laptop update which I've been clicking remind me tomorrow on for the last 8 months.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Update my blog media pack and CV:</b> </h4><p>Add on those achievements from 2020.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>- Clean out my makeup bag:</b> </h4><p>It's usually looking pretty grimy at this point, so it's time to throw out those old mascaras and clean up the loose powder and foundation spills.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mi58_Ij4DwR_Gk7ioevjlkbQv7athEcCHnHEUeuGA6Xgyy5cpvr9dGsQJC7tg3M50NUYWHX22AvW4-HlAFSGWuX9ZiUDK2E97_xnjkMRZxrYmJwdrzJA8Vk6vtO_FqutY7_6b0xJtPh3/s2048/IMG_2466.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Smiling Blogger Girl - getting organised for a new year - new years admin blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mi58_Ij4DwR_Gk7ioevjlkbQv7athEcCHnHEUeuGA6Xgyy5cpvr9dGsQJC7tg3M50NUYWHX22AvW4-HlAFSGWuX9ZiUDK2E97_xnjkMRZxrYmJwdrzJA8Vk6vtO_FqutY7_6b0xJtPh3/s16000/IMG_2466.jpg" title="Smiling Blogger Girl - getting organised for a new year - new years admin blogpost" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>How do you like to get organised for a new year?!</p><p>I hope you found this post useful! </p><p>Chloe x</p><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-22735275445013303922020-12-02T18:30:00.001+00:002020-12-02T18:30:02.147+00:00The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne | Book Review <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbM6daOfhwLc3y1o2oxXtuNT6MfL02vreloo5gReES08M1qD3Ejl8cntwQPQsvaH7DlmLqsnu_hKLtd5QXhiAPm6FTTpPTzW6bxOzVT_5qCn5Om9_nu0XxjbXLeVkQI8r_OaU_0XhB4-C0/s2048/IMG_3212.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne - on public bench with autumn leaves. YA book review" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbM6daOfhwLc3y1o2oxXtuNT6MfL02vreloo5gReES08M1qD3Ejl8cntwQPQsvaH7DlmLqsnu_hKLtd5QXhiAPm6FTTpPTzW6bxOzVT_5qCn5Om9_nu0XxjbXLeVkQI8r_OaU_0XhB4-C0/s16000/IMG_3212.jpg" title="The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne - on public bench with autumn leaves. YA book review" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1m5GO6-58qvv4NQIVDMoD0bArT5_xcPD6L1BUfpFEifGE965lFiI3zISFP50RuOkskd-CHM3tgT0MO64kleb9bSlCaxMRRrLnbqzz34pstx0MEyM1k9An05MvG1_0uVKlW3j-f_at7GoT/s2048/IMG_3226.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne - on public bench with autumn leaves. YA book review" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1m5GO6-58qvv4NQIVDMoD0bArT5_xcPD6L1BUfpFEifGE965lFiI3zISFP50RuOkskd-CHM3tgT0MO64kleb9bSlCaxMRRrLnbqzz34pstx0MEyM1k9An05MvG1_0uVKlW3j-f_at7GoT/s16000/IMG_3226.jpg" title="The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne - on public bench with autumn leaves. YA book review" /></a></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">I recently finished reading <a href="https://amzn.to/3lCob5C" target="_blank">The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne</a>, I closed the final page and thought 'that was important, everyone needs to read this book'.</span></h2><div style="text-align: left;"><span><i>(Trigger warning - abusive relationships are a theme running through the book and touched on in this review.)</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;">The Places I've Cried in Public is written in the perspective of Amelie, a teen who has moved away from her friends and boyfriend and is starting college in a new city. Amelie meets Reece, who is charming, despite the red flags. They begin a new romantic relationship, which you later realise is anything but romantic. </div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The book follows two different timelines, as Amelie gets inspired from a school project, and decides to revisit the places she's cried in public since moving cities. It's in these locations she reflects and tells the stories behind what lead to the tears. So we get both get present-day Amelie who is trying to move forward and heal, and past Amelie who feels she's in love but is being manipulated.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I'm not going to lie, on beginning the book, I didn't love it. It's a young adult story, and initially, I found it felt too young be to reading it as a 29-year-old woman. There was naivety to the main character, and she sometimes came across unreliable (in love with her boyfriend Alfie back home and then immediately besotted with Reese - however this may be <span style="background-color: white;">a trope of </span>young love along with everything else) and slightly childish (she falls out with friends and is disrespectful to her parents). However, I later found these details which I didn't love about the narrator later came into play. They were a result of how she'd treated rather than personality traits which really highlights how relationships can affect a person. To begin with, it was an easy read, so I keep going, and then a transformation happened. Pieces of the story fell together, and I realised there was much more to it than I initially realised. It was no longer an easy read but I couldn't put it down. It was heart-wrenching. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Places I've Cried in Public tells the story of an abusive relationship from the perspective of the victim. It shows how abuse can be subtle, isolating and destructive all at the same time. It sheds light on why people fall in love with abusers, grow reliant on them, and see goodness in the person who is gaslighting them. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This book is a great tool for young women as it shows the signs of an unhealthy relationship. There are also conversations with a therapist within the story which are educational. These conversations give useful information such as the impacts of trauma, and how to know when a relationship is unhealthy.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There's also far more to the story than you expect, and there's also a twist towards the end which highlights however extreme abuse might be victims might rewrite the narrative rather than facing the trauma, and as a way to protect their abuser.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>It's raw, emotional and relatable - even for those who haven't experienced the same.</span><span> </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This might be a really hard read, for some more than others, but I think it's an important read. Although the subject matter of the book is heavy, the book still very much feels like a young adult read. </span><span style="font-size: large;">It also explores themes of friendships, new starts, family relationships and coming of age.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHxcMDZfIWfUe4p3q4kp7HUgFLPHCMjoc9GXwHVNVGDOi48nyubVgcz1OUqAUbRAzFn6zbt-vLMRskL2YzYEQQQpJVrQOxwWKX2sjK3u4SnNS02DG1vaikNY-8Dms4IacL9qjIjhpaYUq/s2048/IMG_3215.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHxcMDZfIWfUe4p3q4kp7HUgFLPHCMjoc9GXwHVNVGDOi48nyubVgcz1OUqAUbRAzFn6zbt-vLMRskL2YzYEQQQpJVrQOxwWKX2sjK3u4SnNS02DG1vaikNY-8Dms4IacL9qjIjhpaYUq/s16000/IMG_3215.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-80639837418822835572020-10-21T18:30:00.039+01:002020-10-21T18:58:53.149+01:008 Fun & Cosy Autumn Activities | Things to do this Fall.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWd21QORzJVOasWcvj4_efyDZVBrWCtnrrQB3eHWY1G4BccHjH-MATwrJGbU_zfXjhiiuzLb0IRdTkgnwCZ8IPjIFyLcujaCfew_UATXD6bTriPRqN1RTaLDAXF7j11IOGs4zotLaMUnK/s992/collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="992" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWd21QORzJVOasWcvj4_efyDZVBrWCtnrrQB3eHWY1G4BccHjH-MATwrJGbU_zfXjhiiuzLb0IRdTkgnwCZ8IPjIFyLcujaCfew_UATXD6bTriPRqN1RTaLDAXF7j11IOGs4zotLaMUnK/s16000/collage.jpg" title="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReV6nekSbI3dtHEjNhh2G0KIxytCqN7Mr1Q_2v1ENodH9BMbhkoPvMJmpJsGdWCUVdNTMqDtrJhFA6e4-eP4kz1bDxvBGAeUf6zGyoOqAknmKRhrUKDt7qaeJjk-0dZUGeIrwErTRigwj/s2048/IMG_3147.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReV6nekSbI3dtHEjNhh2G0KIxytCqN7Mr1Q_2v1ENodH9BMbhkoPvMJmpJsGdWCUVdNTMqDtrJhFA6e4-eP4kz1bDxvBGAeUf6zGyoOqAknmKRhrUKDt7qaeJjk-0dZUGeIrwErTRigwj/s16000/IMG_3147.jpg" title="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNOxzYLkiPPu45WwEUdtavggZDsrMFgP2YaHlLq3IZykDE0xxQL9ERQPjDcxS82WEaB24wPvcTUjqQwVpB0mrwEfbyGwfL3P3FT2Wwu1a7Exib-uJNWnwe01_EP4FtHZeO54link2lHuD4/s2048/IMG_3149.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNOxzYLkiPPu45WwEUdtavggZDsrMFgP2YaHlLq3IZykDE0xxQL9ERQPjDcxS82WEaB24wPvcTUjqQwVpB0mrwEfbyGwfL3P3FT2Wwu1a7Exib-uJNWnwe01_EP4FtHZeO54link2lHuD4/s16000/IMG_3149.jpg" title="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoYZoAVNpkbc7uVl-UR7U9cB5EdS9N2bRcslYOK9b0Fgdm5mFSkT_xw-hEto1Mq6WhdvbYEx2PMLP26fLStNU-HqoXtQm0dNuOsyCBsE9EIdC6Z5qIWeuan84-Bb7q_Gj9rj8FFEhnhgV/s2048/IMG_3158-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoYZoAVNpkbc7uVl-UR7U9cB5EdS9N2bRcslYOK9b0Fgdm5mFSkT_xw-hEto1Mq6WhdvbYEx2PMLP26fLStNU-HqoXtQm0dNuOsyCBsE9EIdC6Z5qIWeuan84-Bb7q_Gj9rj8FFEhnhgV/s16000/IMG_3158-2.jpg" title="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTs5y9mYs8-onhcGjfeNXK43BMwKUUGtrEOkMZ2H88GjTYqZHv_7o0EF10ybYVaF1ACcqX-NjEQV5eDFsnNHsOmWDqW44QqAdxzdGei9utZd4J6kDvu6ypLEPabIa5ju8j_V581yqNtS4o/s2048/IMG_3160.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTs5y9mYs8-onhcGjfeNXK43BMwKUUGtrEOkMZ2H88GjTYqZHv_7o0EF10ybYVaF1ACcqX-NjEQV5eDFsnNHsOmWDqW44QqAdxzdGei9utZd4J6kDvu6ypLEPabIa5ju8j_V581yqNtS4o/s16000/IMG_3160.jpg" title="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpnoo5tJ25H7VOsFWYpB9FEh2jtotN7bhyphenhyphenjJBIiooqALNInaAGCNJ49ziB53OqVabifAJVzqtehf6-WhFDZ0KBIRJxP6FvO9YDzHXztWaRxeqMgwynqVvyEbcfsexRsHygqDLhg5IlGJG/s2048/IMG_3162.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpnoo5tJ25H7VOsFWYpB9FEh2jtotN7bhyphenhyphenjJBIiooqALNInaAGCNJ49ziB53OqVabifAJVzqtehf6-WhFDZ0KBIRJxP6FvO9YDzHXztWaRxeqMgwynqVvyEbcfsexRsHygqDLhg5IlGJG/s16000/IMG_3162.jpg" title="Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNdXB_cINRWdedrHMid5P7yO4Ry5XvPC5FiFzlExMg6JHSvzeih_XVnli0RgatlY10o4s5wUvVIrb9uMYpHqcIVk6hUUg82Kl8hRT8z3S4w3i0tQqI8XQZi1tehabzJ4gBbjPcapDaAkj/s2048/IMG_3164.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Guy with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNdXB_cINRWdedrHMid5P7yO4Ry5XvPC5FiFzlExMg6JHSvzeih_XVnli0RgatlY10o4s5wUvVIrb9uMYpHqcIVk6hUUg82Kl8hRT8z3S4w3i0tQqI8XQZi1tehabzJ4gBbjPcapDaAkj/s16000/IMG_3164.jpg" title="Guy with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF28cUXdaaZ9GmYSFsEIf3xnXLQE1nZSdn9X4lkrsPn_EzFsrMbXjRxKxBDREfW3SCprXfzcLmz29BeGoLiVwxawF9VfQd1Gin-q3h1KGa2Rv6vUIonGGD22F4qGBstenP3iMvc7s9FcI3/s2048/IMG_3165.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF28cUXdaaZ9GmYSFsEIf3xnXLQE1nZSdn9X4lkrsPn_EzFsrMbXjRxKxBDREfW3SCprXfzcLmz29BeGoLiVwxawF9VfQd1Gin-q3h1KGa2Rv6vUIonGGD22F4qGBstenP3iMvc7s9FcI3/s16000/IMG_3165.jpg" title="Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h1 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Looking for some fun activities to do this Autumn? I've got you covered. </span></h1><p>Personally, I love this time of year, there's something about the crisp air, crunchy leaves, and warm colours speaks to my soul. I've also learned that it's good to lean into the thing I love and make the most of my favourite time of year. Even if you're a summer baby, mourning the warmer days - these activities will get feeling the autumn love.</p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Pick Pumpkins:</h1><div style="text-align: left;">After years of feeling envious of the pumpkin patch picture that appeared on my insta feed each autumn, I decided to instead be one of those people posting pictures of the pumpkins they picked, and it was the most lovely day. Sometimes you have to arrange things, rather than think about how you'd like to do them. Pumpkin picking is bound to make you feel more autumnal, and it's a relatively cheap activity, you can enjoy with friends, partners or family. It gives you an excuse to get out of the house and get some fresh air, while you stock up on pumpkins (far more exciting than picking one up with the weekly Tescos shop). Plus there the bonus that pumpkin provides more fun autumn activities for days afterwards.</div><h1 style="text-align: left;">- Decorate Pumpkins </h1><p>Dedicate an evening (or afternoon, morning, or whenever takes your fancy really) to decorate your pumpkins. Have a pumpkin carving contest with the members of your household. Make an event of it. Not into the carving part? Some of the pumpkins we picked this year are on the smaller side, so we've decided to paint them instead. Who'd have thought one vegetable could provide so many fun autumn activities, and we haven't even discussed cooking with them.</p><h1 style="text-align: left;">- Making decor:</h1><p>For me, each new season comes with a new colour palette and an excuse to mix things up in the home. This Autumn I decided to get a bit creative and make my own decor. I crocheted <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/883098545/crochet-mini-pumpkins-set-of-three?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank">mini pumpkins</a> and a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/883118769/hand-crocheted-black-cat-and-pom-pom?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">black cat garland</a> (I have both of which are also available to buy on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> If you don't fancy making but do fancy decorating). I found making my own bits felt really relaxing and it gave me something a bit different to do in the evenings. If you do want a creative project, I'd recommend <a href="https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/" target="_blank">Love Crafts</a> (I worked with them in the past <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/07/5-hobbies-for-self-care-ad-gifted-items.html" target="_blank">on this blog post</a>, but I'm just sharing now because I think it's helpful!) They have tonnes of access to free knitting and crochet patterns on their website which you might want to try out. If crochet is not for you, why not give making an Autumn wreath a try? </p><h1 style="text-align: left;">- Autumn walks:</h1><div>If you know me, you know I think going for a walk makes a great activity pretty much all year round (see blog posts <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/09/a-digital-detox-day-reflect-what-to-do.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/07/5-ways-to-find-motivation-what-to-do.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/how-to-relieve-stress-self-care.html" target="_blank">here</a>), but in Autumn, I find them particularly special, as the trees fill the world with autumn hues and there's something quite lovely about stepping on those crunchy fall leaves. We went on a walk recently, and decided to take a flask of soup - it was a great idea, halfway throughout the walk, we warmed up a little by enjoying some soup at a great viewpoint (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CGksTmNhyh-/" target="_blank">I posted some pictures from that walk on my Instagram here</a>).</div><p><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">- Castle visits:</h1><div>I recently visited Berkely Castle with my boyfriend and his family, and it ended up being the most fun day. It was nice to do something a bit different, learn a bit of history and explore somewhere new. You can see a tonne of my snaps (a hopefully a reel soon) from that day on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram account.</a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">- Watch Gilmore Girls:</h1><div>I don't think I could have written an Autumn activities blog post without mentioning Gilmore Girls. I am huge Gilmore Girls fan (I talk about my love for the show <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2016/09/things-ive-learnt-from-rory-gilmore.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2017/03/in-omnia-paratus.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2016/09/5-series-i-became-obsessed-with.html" target="_blank">here</a>), and always tend to rewatch the show around this time of year as it gives me all of the cosy autumn vibes. Whether you're new to the show, or it will be your 6th rewatch, now is the perfect time to head over to Netflix and get your Lorelai fix. </div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Crochet/Knit:</h1><div>I know these did get a mention in the earlier in the make your decor point so I'll keep this short. I am obsessed with crocheting. At the moment I'm crocheting my first ever jumper, which will be ready just in time for winter (more on that in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/07/5-hobbies-for-self-care-ad-gifted-items.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a>) it's such a relaxing hobby and feels super cosy. If you're a beginner you can try your hand creating a simple blanket and getting your technique down. I find crocheting just breaks up my evenings and allows me to feel both productive and relaxed all at once.</div><p><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">- Cosy up with a blanket, some candles and an Autumn film:</h1><p>An obviously one I know, but sometimes you can't beat the simple things. Netflix has a great selection of cheesy, autumnal rom-coms, which seems to be my new favourite genre of film (I've recently watched Harvest Moon and Falling Inn Love, both so bad but so good, you know?). Enjoying them with a hot chocolate and a blanket is sometimes all you need for the perfect autumn evening.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKH3xzpQHZOgYF1MnbqjqzftRa4SDGn-6zVwEg2AqpAM2D-kccVwxBgP5uAzoFQ1bFupJQoGGgqgXhiHGK0kwvBsyK6A0z78pq9zh9n8id36ActKa4fg0-22u6iYppkadZr5e03HZ2tHfN/s2048/IMG_3154-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKH3xzpQHZOgYF1MnbqjqzftRa4SDGn-6zVwEg2AqpAM2D-kccVwxBgP5uAzoFQ1bFupJQoGGgqgXhiHGK0kwvBsyK6A0z78pq9zh9n8id36ActKa4fg0-22u6iYppkadZr5e03HZ2tHfN/s16000/IMG_3154-2.jpg" title="Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv30LsoGN_OaVRsliCoV1HmeWy1fzyurXXFmJiCZarhYS51DCxKHnCJD76wwAzbNirW8zcjPTVMYumUeUA5Yt9TjIKUv43xDoMILYgrn9nhyphenhyphen5M3B2GP4oLR0EAsi7wpD6OKFWwpzb8YlAv/s2048/IMG_3166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" border="0" data-original-height="1558" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv30LsoGN_OaVRsliCoV1HmeWy1fzyurXXFmJiCZarhYS51DCxKHnCJD76wwAzbNirW8zcjPTVMYumUeUA5Yt9TjIKUv43xDoMILYgrn9nhyphenhyphen5M3B2GP4oLR0EAsi7wpD6OKFWwpzb8YlAv/s16000/IMG_3166.jpg" title="Girl with Autumn Pumpkins at Pumpkin Patch from Fall Pumpkin Picking Autumn Activities Blog Post" /></a></p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">Etsy</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Facebook</a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
<a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script>
Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-50080816739657532222020-09-09T18:00:00.009+01:002020-09-28T11:05:16.453+01:00A Digital Detox Day Reflection | What to do during a digital detox<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjros7xswbv2BlAIo_SFgeUoZ9TednoURe6GQNR0eBCBNUQw-kq9zwWsEWK18Zw2tblgkz1g3y5WLJHgfvKy6uAC25Xqvw61O3gfD35l8exWUPF0k0ji0f6HiY0eS9lMwMVRrWs7ZLt4Bh-/s2048/IMG_2562.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjros7xswbv2BlAIo_SFgeUoZ9TednoURe6GQNR0eBCBNUQw-kq9zwWsEWK18Zw2tblgkz1g3y5WLJHgfvKy6uAC25Xqvw61O3gfD35l8exWUPF0k0ji0f6HiY0eS9lMwMVRrWs7ZLt4Bh-/s16000/IMG_2562.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyBob1HcwgcRlq0W-Xmj1svveyjobxfWnfZ3xAKYPkZ2NPuzUb2i7KCALePGRb7cp-U5ZpDL23VHsn3VHjQMmtoMiPRNl_b37EqtSXy0QUt8rsXFOpyxQFvbEthPqsRlhtxSoeh860ArrZ/s2048/IMG_2553.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyBob1HcwgcRlq0W-Xmj1svveyjobxfWnfZ3xAKYPkZ2NPuzUb2i7KCALePGRb7cp-U5ZpDL23VHsn3VHjQMmtoMiPRNl_b37EqtSXy0QUt8rsXFOpyxQFvbEthPqsRlhtxSoeh860ArrZ/s16000/IMG_2553.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKqUWqhtGGqXcNfdCDpTY3d4rnodyPWungGOWjLgGg_U5NTauzfYR7dosVQaLheYdMEfuDQ-DqXHdn8K6sTXc07TFxUNPuKbZ4QPdqktxI4z7bnw9RLxKiBxz4fgrYavnujLchH4_6fbX/s2048/IMG_2559.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKqUWqhtGGqXcNfdCDpTY3d4rnodyPWungGOWjLgGg_U5NTauzfYR7dosVQaLheYdMEfuDQ-DqXHdn8K6sTXc07TFxUNPuKbZ4QPdqktxI4z7bnw9RLxKiBxz4fgrYavnujLchH4_6fbX/s16000/IMG_2559.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cIuD8CAumBMIG_dqCWr3ycVPLwX9vhd_EJLASEYVaCytVPUn5TVxCmKa-sBTMXwhSwL-Ik1tFNXyI0Z7ya-mMW_cCVMmCoD06nY92wHa_HO5TMaAGx_fDPR0wqLXqRJzXIDQ7SX6221F/s2048/IMG_2563.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cIuD8CAumBMIG_dqCWr3ycVPLwX9vhd_EJLASEYVaCytVPUn5TVxCmKa-sBTMXwhSwL-Ik1tFNXyI0Z7ya-mMW_cCVMmCoD06nY92wHa_HO5TMaAGx_fDPR0wqLXqRJzXIDQ7SX6221F/s16000/IMG_2563.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Recently I decided to have a digital detox day. It's something I'd been meaning to do for years but never got around to, however, the </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/zoesugg/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Zoe Sugg</a><span style="text-align: left;"> digital detox campaign was what I needed to push me in the right direction. </span></div><p>I didn't go completely phone and laptop free, I decided I was allowed to watch Stranger Things with my boyfriend and enjoy dipping in out of an audiobook - but that social media was a no-no... To be completely honest, I did slip up, twice. I caught myself beginning to scroll twitter, and pressing the Instagram app but those 10 seconds, were a whole lot less than the hours that usually pass me by staring at the lives of strangers through my iPhone screen. </p><p>It was really lovely. My boyfriend and I had a lazy morning at home, I did some sewing for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a>, we went for lunch and I didn't pause to snap a shot of our food for Instagram stories. We visited my mum, and I didn't find myself trying to both scroll and engage in conversation. I was present. We laughed and chatted and drank tea, and I didn't tell the internet about it. It was nice to be anonymous. We drove back, listening to <span>Harry Potter on the way, I took in the story along with passing green fields and blue skies. We returned home and I got out my paints and fell back in love with one of my old hobbies - I painted watercolour strokes on a page and tried not to be too precious about the outcome. We cosied up and watched Stranger Things and I didn't miss out on the details because I was distracted by twitter. I felt free - and when I write this a day later I feel refreshed - excited about life, offline and online. </span></p><p>I can see that one day away from the small screen was the mental health day I didn't know I needed. Disconnecting gave me the chance to reconnect - with my family, my boyfriend and myself.</p><p>I won't be doing it all the time, because there's a reason I love the online world, both when it comes to consuming and creating content, but I am going to aim for a least once a month because it felt good for the soul.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KKr_pyyNlagAE_3KIEEMy195L5rT5U3fJ8bdDjFIyJZ8J4JqysKmmfEljE5P-giRmq3Y-EKd75dvVvAt69Zd7vrdpiPkaJ6Azmp8uJBq4IEgHXPOu_QbRPiTTY4cp7htLxPJk3-utzGz/s2048/IMG_2570.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KKr_pyyNlagAE_3KIEEMy195L5rT5U3fJ8bdDjFIyJZ8J4JqysKmmfEljE5P-giRmq3Y-EKd75dvVvAt69Zd7vrdpiPkaJ6Azmp8uJBq4IEgHXPOu_QbRPiTTY4cp7htLxPJk3-utzGz/s16000/IMG_2570.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bK4qCqJ7HVFddyuP2JHjCzBvcFFIagQkbmFD2Y-ItrPQxJbG7x5k9zZLxWkZJHX5LGUI_xjXYpsSYVeCzsF-DGAU-PHD_6JfIyPfJaIYSS2InVhj7lJYTj04fIazDNqWGTLjAXOBBlrr/s2048/IMG_2566.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bK4qCqJ7HVFddyuP2JHjCzBvcFFIagQkbmFD2Y-ItrPQxJbG7x5k9zZLxWkZJHX5LGUI_xjXYpsSYVeCzsF-DGAU-PHD_6JfIyPfJaIYSS2InVhj7lJYTj04fIazDNqWGTLjAXOBBlrr/s16000/IMG_2566.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I do however know how daunting a digital detox day can be, which is why I put off doing it for so long. I thought I'd share some ideas of what to do during a digital detox day, to ease you into the idea:</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Activities for a digital detox day:</h3><p><b>- Read: </b>I'm always wanting to lose myself in a good book, it's something I always wish I had more time for. A digital detox day is a perfect excuse to catch up with some reading. If you're after some book recommendations, <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/search/label/books" target="_blank">you can find my book-related blog posts here</a>.</p><p><b>- Spend time with loved ones:</b> You do that all the time already right? But I bet you don't do it without digital distractions. Catching up with loved ones without scrolling is a whole lot more special.</p><p><b>- Games: </b>FYI, board games aren't just for Christmas time. A digital detox day is a perfect time to dust off the monopoly.</p><p><b>- Jigsaw Puzzles:</b> The same goes for jigsaw puzzles. I love getting out a puzzle during the festive season, and there is absolutely no reason you can't spend your time puzzling all year round, and they will definitely keep you entertained during a digital detox.</p><p><b>- Go for Walk:</b> I've said it a million times before on this blog. I bloody love going to for a walk. I find being outside in nature refreshing.</p><p><b>- Go for Bike Ride: </b>Now personally, I won't be doing this one, because I'm not the most confident on a bike - my boyfriend, however, is obsessed with going for bike rides with his friends - so if you want a tech-free activity, bike rides could be the one. </p><p><b>- Drawing/painting:</b> Growing up, drawing and painting were some of my favourite hobbies, as I've got older it's gotten a bit forgot, one of those things which get pushed aside because I don't have 'time' for it (<i>still have time to play The Sims and scroll Instagram though)</i>. On my digital detox day, I spent a couple of hours rediscovering my love for painting, and I'm going to try to keep it up. Creativity is something to be rediscovered during a digital detox day.</p><p><b>- Pottery painting: </b>A few years ago we went to centre parks (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZ8mRoPVNPw" target="_blank">vlog here</a>) and we did some pottery painting and it was my favourite part. It's something I've been meaning to do since, and a digital detox day is a perfect time to do this.<b> </b></p><p><b>- Go for a Picnic:</b> Sadly for those in the UK, this is kind of weather dependant. But who doesn't love taking there picnic blankets and sandwiches to the park?</p><p><b>- Clean/Organise: </b>There's always cleaning and organising to be done, and although you might hate it, I find it pretty therapeutic, making it the perfect activity for a digital detox day. </p><p><b>- Fruit and veg picking: </b>I'm not the only one who feels a bit envious when I see the pumpkin picking pictures on Instagram, am I?! a digital detox day is the perfect time to arrange to go picking.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdZFE4DuqaoQZZN_2JEMMBQnWAxsvzD2VyiadvTe5WwrNqPCQy3HUPCfwidny4hkp1QNLZvDAC9HAHrI5IRgdmSj0PBBGTNPeLIwNKL_AwEG7up61NHiofrcv_YtvBJv7WMrgme3dooYc/s16000/IMG_2552.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;">Outfit Details:</h2><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bmh3h" target="_blank">Dress: M&S (old, similar linked)</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/848934433/cross-over-silk-feel-headband-with?ref=shop_home_active_14&sca=1" target="_blank">Headband: Chloe Harriets Creates</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/843465473/silk-feel-giant-hair-scrunchie-in-blue?ref=shop_home_active_22" target="_blank">Scrunchie (worn on the wrist): Chloe Harriets Creates</a> | <a href="https://www.moonglow.com/collections/womens-necklaces/products/classic-black-swarovski-necklace" target="_blank">Necklace: Moonglow</a><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bmh3W" target="_blank">Sandals: New Look</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbFziDugyARymM2kzeaJIWdp0JakWkv6DuLFgITcLMRh2ZjqCoG_QeCfFpT6BbU1NyKd9q-Cch_Hpvcb0m0-xvx-QW7k6zPHJmBRqHNsVGPYFx0fhQTrkvuuCeQnfgL1Hg4mfs_PVjnAq9/s2048/IMG_2564.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbFziDugyARymM2kzeaJIWdp0JakWkv6DuLFgITcLMRh2ZjqCoG_QeCfFpT6BbU1NyKd9q-Cch_Hpvcb0m0-xvx-QW7k6zPHJmBRqHNsVGPYFx0fhQTrkvuuCeQnfgL1Hg4mfs_PVjnAq9/s16000/IMG_2564.jpg" title="A digital detox day reflection and what to do during a digital detox" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">Etsy</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQUgMtxgpjyU_prTb2ExDUA?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">Youtube</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Twitter</a></span></p>
<a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Affiliate links are used in this blogpost</span></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-88336039422630316662020-09-02T18:30:00.005+01:002020-09-06T17:44:07.164+01:00What I've Been Reading | 2020 Summer Books <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAfnXhGOWtaQS9W4Q-dna7kcM7IPphL8CEecAiHA2URS2EZd9hw1I5685-vUY4VzY1bZvk0KXviho1eFciuaGkz27emt8AeaQmuUimqb2ZcXD3qWzuWlje4miahvha95cmJo6WOfQM5vQ/s2048/IMG_2364.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="What I've been reading, book pile - ya fiction, a monster calls and more book reviews - summer 2020" border="0" data-original-height="1397" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAfnXhGOWtaQS9W4Q-dna7kcM7IPphL8CEecAiHA2URS2EZd9hw1I5685-vUY4VzY1bZvk0KXviho1eFciuaGkz27emt8AeaQmuUimqb2ZcXD3qWzuWlje4miahvha95cmJo6WOfQM5vQ/s16000/IMG_2364.jpg" title="What I've been reading, book pile - ya fiction, a monster calls and more book reviews - summer 2020" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamqaWUhaElHboNqmBlY3Qr44As5PQmArvQqEwui4N8v9k5aXl-3Od_ZKVo28ypIZZlqMIUYTRMStAlIv-EGSzC-2gZaref8gCvRitAmfI2nHyBTdU1yIZJWxGdUAz1Y5U7lIm7A7TsKSo/s2048/IMG_2357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What I've been reading, book pile - ya fiction, a monster calls and more book reviews - summer 2020" border="0" data-original-height="1236" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamqaWUhaElHboNqmBlY3Qr44As5PQmArvQqEwui4N8v9k5aXl-3Od_ZKVo28ypIZZlqMIUYTRMStAlIv-EGSzC-2gZaref8gCvRitAmfI2nHyBTdU1yIZJWxGdUAz1Y5U7lIm7A7TsKSo/s16000/IMG_2357.jpg" title="What I've been reading, book pile - ya fiction, a monster calls and more book reviews - summer 2020" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today I thought I'd share some book reviews of all that I've been reading this Summer. <br />It's one for all of you bookworms out there - A little update on my pages I've been flicking through and my thoughts on them.</h3><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://amzn.to/2QM6sf1" target="_blank">The Kissing Booth (1 & 2) by Beth Reekles</a></h2><div>I read this on my kindle (hence the lack of book in the photos), after watching the Netflix film<i> (and falling in love with it, obviously),</i> I was excited to get stuck into it - I am a lover of YA fiction and high school romance. I ended up reading both books - <a href="https://amzn.to/2YZlwu7" target="_blank">The Kissing Booth</a> and <a href="https://amzn.to/3gWt077" target="_blank">The Kissing Booth 2: Going the Distance</a> - I sped through them, finding them to be a light easy read, but also I found the characters to be frustrating. There's no denying that I enjoyed the books, but I found them to romanticise quite a toxic relationship - which reading it as a 28-year-old woman I can recognise that but feel the 15-year-olds that these books are aimed at might not. They're perfect if you want a light-hearted read, that makes you feel young, but remember there's nothing romantic about an up and down, secret relationship, with a lack of communication as these books make it seem.<div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/152660664X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=152660664X&linkCode=as2&tag=chloeharrie08-21&linkId=a7118841942718dcc7155db57e294607" target="_blank">A Map from Here to There by Emery Lord</a></h2><div><a href="https://amzn.to/3lILf3K" target="_blank">A Map from Here to There</a> is the sequel to <a href="https://amzn.to/2DlZkmi" target="_blank">The Start of Me and You</a> - However, I went into reading unaware of this <i>(oops)</i> and although I've read The Start of Me and You, it had been a while so I could have done with a little refresher on it. Although young adult fiction is usually my favourite genre - I found this one to be a little too much on the young side for me. A lot of the characters' worries revolved around choosing a college, and the impacts on that on her relationship alongside and juggling having schoolwork, a social life, and an internship, which isn't very relatable for me as a 28-year-old woman, however, if I read this at 17 I'm sure I would have felt differently about it. Nonetheless, I enjoyed it for some light reading - I love Emery Lord's style of writing, so if you also really enjoy YA fiction I'd recommend checking out some of her other books (<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2018/12/when-we-collided-by-emery-lord-when-we.html" target="_blank">my favourite is When We Collided and you can read my review on it here</a>). It has the themes of friendship and mental health running throughout it which I really liked.<br /><h2 style="text-align: center;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2YYbh9o" target="_blank"><br />A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness</a></h2><div>I've never read anything like this before - it felt like a children's book, which is aimed at adults with deep themes but a simple yet, beautiful writing style. Being in the perspective of a child made it different from most of my usual reads. A Monster Calls is the story of a young boy, with a sick Mum, and who is having a tough time at school. A monster begins visiting him, the monster tells him stories as he tries to navigate his way through all that life throws at him. It's beautiful and touching.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/32K0lNK" target="_blank"><br />We of the Forsaken World by Kiran Bhat</a> (AD - Gifted)</h2><div>We of the Foresaken World is not my usual style, but as I was offered a gifted opportunity with this book, I decided to give it a go, and I really enjoyed it. I found it to be a lot more intense than my usual read, and found myself completely swept up in it. I did find reading it took a lot of focus - it's not one to read with your mind elsewhere. <a href="https://amzn.to/3gTb4um" target="_blank">We of the Forsaken World </a>tells several stories of interesting characters from a future world, in different locations which all knit together. Each story is touching and gave me plenty to think about from stories about tribes, the impact of oil spills, the story of a one-armed woman and more. It shows a world, both so similar to ours, and completely different to everything we know. The characters felt relatable and a world away. It's unlike anything I've ever read before, and it's a book which took some time for me to digest. It explores environmental issues and humans stories. I really enjoyed this, if you're looking to read something which will get you thinking, this could be it.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/35av09Z" target="_blank"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/35av09Z" target="_blank"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/35av09Z" target="_blank">Find Me by André Aciman</a></div></h2><div><a href="https://amzn.to/35av09Z" target="_blank">Find Me</a> is the sequel to <a href="https://amzn.to/2EIg6wR" target="_blank">Call Me by Your Name</a>. <span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">I really enjoyed reading it, it had the same beautiful style of writing as Call Me by Your Name (</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeQ-OHhHN0A/" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">you can read my thoughts on that here</a><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">) however, it felt very far removed from the original story and I enjoyed it much more when I stopped thinking of it as “Call Me by Your Name: 2” rather than it’s own thing.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The book is split into three separate love stories. There aren’t individuals chapters beyond this, which at first I found frustrating but once I got used to not expecting chapters to end, I realised the format worked for this book. With each section, the location and the perspective changed. A first I found it difficult to grasp which character point of view I was reading from (especially in relation to Call Me by Your Name) but trying to figure that out, kept me hooked. Throughout the book, links were revealed. I found the writing style to be as beautiful as I had expected and I loved each individual love story. Just a warning, if you're reading for Elio and Oliver - they don't come into the story until much later. </span></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;">Have you read any of these? What did you think?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAfnXhGOWtaQS9W4Q-dna7kcM7IPphL8CEecAiHA2URS2EZd9hw1I5685-vUY4VzY1bZvk0KXviho1eFciuaGkz27emt8AeaQmuUimqb2ZcXD3qWzuWlje4miahvha95cmJo6WOfQM5vQ/s2048/IMG_2364.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="What I've been reading, book pile - ya fiction, a monster calls and more book reviews - summer 2020" border="0" data-original-height="1397" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAfnXhGOWtaQS9W4Q-dna7kcM7IPphL8CEecAiHA2URS2EZd9hw1I5685-vUY4VzY1bZvk0KXviho1eFciuaGkz27emt8AeaQmuUimqb2ZcXD3qWzuWlje4miahvha95cmJo6WOfQM5vQ/s16000/IMG_2364.jpg" title="What I've been reading, book pile - ya fiction, a monster calls and more book reviews - summer 2020" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><p class="p3" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p3" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p3" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kissing-Booth-Going-Distance/dp/0241413222/ref=as_li_ss_il?dchild=1&keywords=the+kissing+booth+2&qid=1599059135&sr=8-1&linkCode=li2&tag=chloeharrie08-21&linkId=a34c82f0c2d7b0e01a406a495d477274&language=en_GB" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="160" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0241413222&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=GB&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB" width="104" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB&l=li2&o=2&a=0241413222" style="border: none; font-size: large; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB&l=li2&o=2&a=0552568813" style="border: none; font-size: large; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><img border="0" height="160" src="https://ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B082NKGJ6P&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=GB&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB" style="font-size: large;" width="104" /><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><img border="0" height="160" src="https://ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1406361801&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=GB&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB" style="font-size: large;" width="105" /><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><img border="0" height="160" src="https://ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07ZY766XB&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=GB&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB" style="font-size: large;" width="103" /><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><img border="0" height="160" src="https://ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0571356508&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=GB&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB" style="font-size: large;" width="104" /><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><img border="0" height="160" src="https://ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00AIV2KIG&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=GB&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB" style="font-size: large;" width="104" /></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB&l=li2&o=2&a=1406361801" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB&l=li2&o=2&a=B00AIV2KIG" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /></span><p></p><p class="p3" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=chloeharrie08-21&language=en_GB&l=li2&o=2&a=0571356508" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><span style="font-size: x-small;">* Affiliate links are used in this blogpost. </span></p><div style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">I did have a little impromptu blog break, so I've got a whole new pile of books to update you with my reviews on, so you can expect more book blog posts coming soon.</span></span></div><div style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div><div style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Etsy</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Youtube</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Twitter</a></div><div style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a class="blsdk-follow" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-15608620378288884012020-07-29T18:30:00.013+01:002020-07-29T18:30:00.177+01:005 Hobbies for Self Care | AD - Gifted Items<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPY6uWnG95XEisW4G7iIzBBAmRWPZr6cNxxAFU6bmax6iPUH42MNKGmse9DjgElajG-cwZ1iZSOePINTNjd6ypoCFjwM68o-60wCPiVXRozgcXAkhYW-6uf-aVmXpXCdNsmIL3zf8wGIr/s2048/IMG_2350.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPY6uWnG95XEisW4G7iIzBBAmRWPZr6cNxxAFU6bmax6iPUH42MNKGmse9DjgElajG-cwZ1iZSOePINTNjd6ypoCFjwM68o-60wCPiVXRozgcXAkhYW-6uf-aVmXpXCdNsmIL3zf8wGIr/d/IMG_2350.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQp6oWcW8svcGY_drPSsLp-mdpQ6sjV08FGKzGS3q364jL_EJnHPQuardB0W5v4OA8PdsRxScXnc3wM3xkm3mcWmvf96bJho9GPcvuL8SFk4MMgDu5hBfNu669gXthM77gXiEKAKAQCjy/s2048/IMG_2356.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQp6oWcW8svcGY_drPSsLp-mdpQ6sjV08FGKzGS3q364jL_EJnHPQuardB0W5v4OA8PdsRxScXnc3wM3xkm3mcWmvf96bJho9GPcvuL8SFk4MMgDu5hBfNu669gXthM77gXiEKAKAQCjy/d/IMG_2356.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljqO5Q8j1yH4GdXFHWfKrI3qrBKHXY6icleC-djlqjTr-5ASaidzqtdmbDFTRsu8WkHN_i8bWjXtCCE4_HW7xDBBK1kI946k0yTnzL5YtD3d1q9JVDbiw5VNewc08qAmihv00HK3ehR5o/s2048/IMG_2336.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljqO5Q8j1yH4GdXFHWfKrI3qrBKHXY6icleC-djlqjTr-5ASaidzqtdmbDFTRsu8WkHN_i8bWjXtCCE4_HW7xDBBK1kI946k0yTnzL5YtD3d1q9JVDbiw5VNewc08qAmihv00HK3ehR5o/d/IMG_2336.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5BT3maMEHAtIrUgx8rSfiTyfe-pzDB2WuMifqOoGZcqvCS315gA03ZnmVv1gV4RbNoP7klD2bweM0VFNDiPd0R-lu6IRC67EqagLRo_xTd8EQ17vK295i3Rs_LleJQzRKx8d76pa9dJz/s2048/IMG_2341-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5BT3maMEHAtIrUgx8rSfiTyfe-pzDB2WuMifqOoGZcqvCS315gA03ZnmVv1gV4RbNoP7klD2bweM0VFNDiPd0R-lu6IRC67EqagLRo_xTd8EQ17vK295i3Rs_LleJQzRKx8d76pa9dJz/d/IMG_2341-2.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7-H4TYoyHMAvcuFdzUXLooqbnc_5tvko3igW8PbZFQxeINMXhyphenhyphenbcN5I27qeg2JaYrY7GhZigo0ODn5lXnmkDsnDU57zH-G44BoKXU2Gj5Lp53N3ihl6TC8uK7_25KqL4A34T4L5ydf93/s2048/IMG_2344.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7-H4TYoyHMAvcuFdzUXLooqbnc_5tvko3igW8PbZFQxeINMXhyphenhyphenbcN5I27qeg2JaYrY7GhZigo0ODn5lXnmkDsnDU57zH-G44BoKXU2Gj5Lp53N3ihl6TC8uK7_25KqL4A34T4L5ydf93/d/IMG_2344.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vvMiFaEPX2hxrVEmGeF0FL1Ith3VvPsrn9ZNpQWvHuLWRBevsKXn4BARHSPRaDaI5GSMk-Zrjmpv_JQW0DOA13M_O97CdXbBxyycQxYNzlRDF6r-4qhZJO2TmFH2BQJ3mpr3GzgmO5yb/s2048/IMG_2351.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vvMiFaEPX2hxrVEmGeF0FL1Ith3VvPsrn9ZNpQWvHuLWRBevsKXn4BARHSPRaDaI5GSMk-Zrjmpv_JQW0DOA13M_O97CdXbBxyycQxYNzlRDF6r-4qhZJO2TmFH2BQJ3mpr3GzgmO5yb/d/IMG_2351.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEc2eP9vLyL69w0SQ6Uf_CD3WtZxy7Jbz9KdvnyFKsAv8AE7lGGnk_geCMu5CA0FGFp6ALm_SOWe5tQMtQJkUfKESZu-86eT19elsKWh8QtmmIf9QdxgSxWuKzHHWODv8-YvgSqflax2hf/s2048/IMG_2353.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEc2eP9vLyL69w0SQ6Uf_CD3WtZxy7Jbz9KdvnyFKsAv8AE7lGGnk_geCMu5CA0FGFp6ALm_SOWe5tQMtQJkUfKESZu-86eT19elsKWh8QtmmIf9QdxgSxWuKzHHWODv8-YvgSqflax2hf/d/IMG_2353.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35VjWLFLPwGuNCGHFIjaBieSbZJXbwPreZxcIcBnJXR4TZb935qlEeYm0bx3BTeDMUiXSAcDJbzixMn4ZXr3ymrz30epTQ7LoBrOx-6PORBOXxfq82x5crg-iqwFv8OeybjsSw3xl_9tQ/s2048/IMG_2328.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35VjWLFLPwGuNCGHFIjaBieSbZJXbwPreZxcIcBnJXR4TZb935qlEeYm0bx3BTeDMUiXSAcDJbzixMn4ZXr3ymrz30epTQ7LoBrOx-6PORBOXxfq82x5crg-iqwFv8OeybjsSw3xl_9tQ/d/IMG_2328.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Over here on <a href="http://chloeharriets.com" target="_blank">chloeharriets.com</a>, I talk about self-care a lot (see posts <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/07/5-ways-to-find-motivation-what-to-do.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/how-to-relieve-stress-self-care.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2019/06/how-to-shift-your-mindset-and-tea.html" target="_blank">here</a>) because I think the main key to living a happy and fulfilled life is looking after yourself - that self-care thing I'm always banging on about.</div><h1 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Today, I wanted to share some creative hobbies that are good for self-care. Hobbies which I find relaxing and fulfilling because sometimes an evening in front of Netflix just doesn't cut it.</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpzV71QfcATEkwrSP8cp8h25AGeLLGgwYTM_txuSabSNOI8jOEClM7t1RYD-4n1N4JtEKlaLeaH4Fk2FHLwYZae9Fb7x5NVYSugxgWaWZ-tUYdNT132L9GVa0tCGzpoScoZv14wOhL3pk/s2048/collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1214" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpzV71QfcATEkwrSP8cp8h25AGeLLGgwYTM_txuSabSNOI8jOEClM7t1RYD-4n1N4JtEKlaLeaH4Fk2FHLwYZae9Fb7x5NVYSugxgWaWZ-tUYdNT132L9GVa0tCGzpoScoZv14wOhL3pk/d/collage.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></h2><h4>- Crocheting:</h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> This post is in partnership with <a href="https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/" target="_blank">Love Crafts</a> who reached out to me and asked if I'd like to feature something from their website in a blog post. When I saw they had crochet supplies I, of course, said yes. For years I've been crocheting as a form of self-care. There's something about the repetitive movement, keeping my hands busy (if I'm ever feeling anxious I fidget like crazy which doesn't help, crocheting settles me), and the feeling of 'I made this' (I like that feeling, hence <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a> - g<i>otta get that self-promo in somewhere</i>). Until now, I've only crochet blankets, sticking to the few stitches I knew, although I'm sure my friends are have appreciated the baby blankets, for a while I wanted to make more but had no clue where to start with following a pattern and learning new stitches. This gifted opportunity gave me the perfect opportunity to push slightly outside of my comfort zone while doing one of my favourite things. I chose <a href="https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/p/berry-dipped-raglan-crochet-pattern-by-little-golden-nook" target="_blank">this pattern</a> to be gifted, so I could make a jumper which I love - it's right up there with my style, plus the website also shows pattern difficulty levels - and as this is my first time working from a pattern, I wanted to start easy with beginners. I went for <a href="https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/p/paintbox-yarns-simply-aran" target="_blank">this wool</a>, and also have the appropriate hooks gifted. I'm still not quite finished<i> (I had one of those baby blankets I spoke about earlier to complete before I got started on the project)</i>. Once I got stuck into it, I found this to be the perfect self-care activity. It kept me feeling like my evenings we're going to waste. Seeing the jumper begin to form is so satisfying. I get to feel a great sense of achievement and a great sense of chill when I spend my time crocheting, and sometimes even watch Netflix at the same time, the best kind of multitasking. If you're interested in starting a new crochet project, they have tonnes of <a href="https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/l/crochet/crochet-patterns/free-crochet-patterns" target="_blank">free patterns available here to get you started</a>.<div><div><br /></div><h3>- Reading:</h3><div> I've always been a big reader, but it's a hobby which is often easily abandoned when I get busy. After falling a little out of love with reading a few months back, I've recently got back into it, and boy oh boy is it a hobby worthy of my time. Reading is an easy escape from the day-to-day. I read a bit of everything. Self-development books are great for when I want something to motivate and inspire me. Fiction for when I want a break from my own life - it's always nice to dip an imaginary one. I'm currently reading <a href="https://amzn.to/39zWDt8" target="_blank">My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing (*affiliate link)</a> - this thriller stylebook is not my go-to read, but I'm hooked - it's even nice being able to look forward to picking up my book when I'm going about my day. I have an online book club, you can read more about <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/chloe-harriets-2020-book-club.html" target="_blank">#chloeharrietsbookclub here</a>, you can find any <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/search/label/books" target="_blank">book review or book-related blog post here</a>, and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/85594831-chloe-hayfield" target="_blank">follow me on Goodreads here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><h3><br /></h3><h3>- Painting/Drawing: </h3><div>I've always been a creative person, some of my favourite childhood memories include me sat on a bedroom floor drawing pictures. Similar to reading, painting and drawing are both things I go through phases of doing but when I am putting my time into them, I just feel calmer. It's a hobby which takes my focus in the most relaxed way. There's not really any right or wrong, but there's is the feeling of accomplishment when completing the picture, and the escape strokes of a paintbrush allow. My friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/staciejayneart/" target="_blank">@staciejayneart</a> on Instagram I find super inspiring when it comes to painting, she just paints for the process and produces such beautiful pieces - she really reminds me with should have hobbies for the joy of the process and creativity should be a form of self expression.</div><div><br /></div><h3>- Journaling: </h3><div>I'm sure I've mentioned a million times (well - <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/06/5-habit-for-happiness-positive-habits.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/05/how-im-going-to-start-living-with-more.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/how-to-relieve-stress-self-care.html" target="_blank">here</a>) how much I love journaling so I won't go on about it too much - just know putting a pen to paper is often both healing and empowering. Whether you're scripting what a day in your life in will look like in the future, or getting something off your chest - moving feelings from the mind onto paper makes all the difference. </div></div><div><br /></div><h3>- Dancing: </h3><div>The simple act of moving our bodies is so freeing. Listening to high vibe music, and dancing just get me feeling positive and excited for the what's to come. It doesn't need to be a big deal either. Dancing in the kitchen while you cook your dinner just adds some more fun to your evening, and who doesn't want that?!</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqEgggHWOMjiDI-hZ6BtI2hyvuIv_iyIB2T3_lbwj3t9D8nkhiTmGWOd5gy7p8tK9KoAi8gcXd2SAZWTO2oWTcNkez5DnYOZkKm46mTS7z3IeF6veqRRWM1ZKHNBhTKLkIEfVS6cKECQM/s2048/IMG_2329.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqEgggHWOMjiDI-hZ6BtI2hyvuIv_iyIB2T3_lbwj3t9D8nkhiTmGWOd5gy7p8tK9KoAi8gcXd2SAZWTO2oWTcNkez5DnYOZkKm46mTS7z3IeF6veqRRWM1ZKHNBhTKLkIEfVS6cKECQM/d/IMG_2329.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBly1ncpQ6XkBdmPShYh7Z0y-U-2tyOhdczUCXtaFf9lZ5HSvEYCDDIvOxVk7LipjXNT8bgQ2-HsU6lefu7N_YMa0py8-dgFDKGU4h644kTkJXYzW7awJCpF90Ep9_HWweW8Vv6zr6F7eA/s2048/IMG_2355.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBly1ncpQ6XkBdmPShYh7Z0y-U-2tyOhdczUCXtaFf9lZ5HSvEYCDDIvOxVk7LipjXNT8bgQ2-HsU6lefu7N_YMa0py8-dgFDKGU4h644kTkJXYzW7awJCpF90Ep9_HWweW8Vv6zr6F7eA/d/IMG_2355.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOSghJKDE90n1eb5TlAiw9poHVdqcYZ68PthEgkB0QEVKL-0Y79lXi3k8dTsfzD1chgUfvLPA3xPK19_W0zq67gnmHWj41L7p4JTzSMyQdXSWOyfvEAUVICpAfFUuuPLFJIu7iVWGEA8-/s2048/IMG_2339.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOSghJKDE90n1eb5TlAiw9poHVdqcYZ68PthEgkB0QEVKL-0Y79lXi3k8dTsfzD1chgUfvLPA3xPK19_W0zq67gnmHWj41L7p4JTzSMyQdXSWOyfvEAUVICpAfFUuuPLFJIu7iVWGEA8-/d/IMG_2339.jpg" title="girl crocheting lilac jumper - 5 creative hobbies for self care blog post" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">What creative hobbies would you suggest for self-care? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Have you tried out crocheting before? One of those free patterns on Love Crafts might just be your next self-care project!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Keep your eyes peeled for a picture on my finished crocheted jumper which I will post on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">my Instagram</a> once I finish it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Etsy</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Youtube</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Twitter</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a class="blsdk-follow" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Follow</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p></div></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-23648536952365820922020-07-22T18:30:00.001+01:002020-07-22T18:30:01.449+01:00Tips for becoming a more positive person | No Bad Vibes | AD Gifted Outfit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylH1r8U6XDhXI9wgY279VEItrIVNWKLfW-WP_kHqFY_eSaka7GQZ_y88rqQ3Yn-_m-PuPRKkAP2Rhhv7Zlr2TTSg4HVknUKvfkl3k77KVLMyljuNbDVsBzW2-LTrwQHe4RLkj6xrBbvYf/s2048/IMG_2313-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylH1r8U6XDhXI9wgY279VEItrIVNWKLfW-WP_kHqFY_eSaka7GQZ_y88rqQ3Yn-_m-PuPRKkAP2Rhhv7Zlr2TTSg4HVknUKvfkl3k77KVLMyljuNbDVsBzW2-LTrwQHe4RLkj6xrBbvYf/d/IMG_2313-2.jpg" title="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ecC8HG9Ftx1VoOQnTDaXSrCRDdWd9Nw3syEcK4y2WLMwCvjOz3hKnMT_tbbaXQqdDn6pMcEaLh_WATLB8NaUv_pGdvvxEwhTTQy9r1W2LbCs6xBBIuLQTklDZINUWbEdn2r6XyIDUNwA/s2048/IMG_2308.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ecC8HG9Ftx1VoOQnTDaXSrCRDdWd9Nw3syEcK4y2WLMwCvjOz3hKnMT_tbbaXQqdDn6pMcEaLh_WATLB8NaUv_pGdvvxEwhTTQy9r1W2LbCs6xBBIuLQTklDZINUWbEdn2r6XyIDUNwA/d/IMG_2308.jpg" title="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lGIMh1YuH8fjF8q4FnPb6rQSzAH94a2XTDRQFVA0-USTxD7onkQ8M676x2sWdFtOZen6f-OQNvrg2FjHwuSOzQp8EY_aZa7GktvSktmDA_CazLa2vUAF8L-u5_uwA7fX8-8pStW5BvLX/s2048/IMG_2311.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1644" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lGIMh1YuH8fjF8q4FnPb6rQSzAH94a2XTDRQFVA0-USTxD7onkQ8M676x2sWdFtOZen6f-OQNvrg2FjHwuSOzQp8EY_aZa7GktvSktmDA_CazLa2vUAF8L-u5_uwA7fX8-8pStW5BvLX/d/IMG_2311.jpg" title="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JbIllqDFfGMRgcQSSCKn_sUwQxadGutpT2lFNU20Ax1A7nUtk4vyt2zL1-d59zyfjtyTUX5xxFM14QCEPaRG4aPO-6FEqA4cR1FItOeLO51CQIy2gdAAzRQp5oC5zGIWjHP8bP03qw18/s2048/IMG_2307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JbIllqDFfGMRgcQSSCKn_sUwQxadGutpT2lFNU20Ax1A7nUtk4vyt2zL1-d59zyfjtyTUX5xxFM14QCEPaRG4aPO-6FEqA4cR1FItOeLO51CQIy2gdAAzRQp5oC5zGIWjHP8bP03qw18/d/IMG_2307.jpg" title="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I'm not going to lie, I used to be a pretty negative person. Most of the time I felt, well...rubbish. I had a habit of feeling sorry for myself for the sake of feeling sorry for myself, rather than taking action and making change, or simply looking on the bright side.<div><br /><div><div>A few years ago, after a few firm talks with friends, I decided enough is enough. I didn't want to be that sad girl anymore, I wanted to make my life one I liked, <i>loved even</i>. Fast forward to now, and I'm happy, most of the time. I still have bad days and hard times of course, but on a whole, I'm happier in general. The good days outweigh the bad and my mindset is a pretty positive one. I can find the light in situations which once would have floored me. As dramatic as it sounds, I've transformed my life. My energy has changed for the good. I no longer welcome those bad vibes, at one point I couldn't shake off.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjItTdbiZxq_M8xlZf3GywTfWxnJRizIMHS67jAp1AQxYMaMyxo70BBXhkqqpHwX0vqSkjtfcxD0Lo3r_1g3ENYX8wlTB5nKXWs6IQh-pfL4V29WKhB3z-0rPvX7S9oBmv6FLrmDyE6XpNH/s2048/IMG_2314-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjItTdbiZxq_M8xlZf3GywTfWxnJRizIMHS67jAp1AQxYMaMyxo70BBXhkqqpHwX0vqSkjtfcxD0Lo3r_1g3ENYX8wlTB5nKXWs6IQh-pfL4V29WKhB3z-0rPvX7S9oBmv6FLrmDyE6XpNH/d/IMG_2314-2.jpg" title="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br />If you're looking to become a more positive version of yourself this is the place to be, as I thought I'd share my tips on keeping the bad vibes away.</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Get to know yourself</h3><div>This one sounds a little weird, I know, but hear me out. We all have different stress triggers, big or small. When you know what yours are, it's much easier to manage what could become a stressful situation. With me, if I feel like I'm in a rush really leaves me feeling off - so I limit my plans to avoid that super busy feeling. The same goes for happy feelings, there will be certain things which always get you feeling joyful - spend time with those things (for me - <i>hello Gilmore Girls</i>).</div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Set boundaries</h3><div>Setting boundaries will save you time, prevent others from taking advantage of your kindness, stop you spending unnecessarily, and allow you to be aware of your limits. Boundaries make things run smoother and give you a guilt-free way to say no.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Stop comparing </h3><div>We all know comparison is the thief of joy, but it's so easy to compare - if that's something you struggle with I'd recommend following <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lucysheridan/" target="_blank">Lucy Sheridan on Instagram</a> (I haven't read <a href="https://amzn.to/3jtySY2" target="_blank">her book The Comparison Cure (affiliate link)</a> yet but I'm looking forward to diving into it soon). Try to keep your focus on yourself, make your past self your competition not a stranger on Instagram. Write a list of things you love about yourself. Basically, make it all about you - it is after all. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Slow down</h3><div>If lockdown has taught us anything, it is that sometimes it's good to slow down. There is no need to be rushing around. When life is too busy it's easy to forget to take the time to enjoy it. Plus, a lot of the time we're more productive when we were thinking with the clarity of a slow mind, not an overactive one.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Be grateful</h3><div>Gratitude is so important, it's also easy to forget. Every day take some time to write a list of the things you're grateful for. It will make you realise how fortunate you are.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Let go</h3><div>Sometimes it's time to move on. Some things no longer serve us. Replaying times you acted certain ways or constantly mourning a friendship which drifted will only have you feeling blue. Live for the present and the future, not the past. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Surround yourself with the good</h3><div>Good people, good music, good podcasts, good environments. The things we surround ourselves with affect how we feel. Consume media which makes you feel good. Give your home a good clean so it's a nice place to be. Unfollow accounts which have you feeling rubbish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPQr_im0PLATjbilKIpyaXEkmCkBO40xtqPpLMA9HWrx82r-J-O4jWQGguvq8nObxR5LaF74Zw0_zYZ_beGeU8r5HGS_LpE2LVnOnDsrHb32gjQesYyzh_b2WQ4VWBA9GOw-lsb174YZO/s2048/IMG_2316-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img alt="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPQr_im0PLATjbilKIpyaXEkmCkBO40xtqPpLMA9HWrx82r-J-O4jWQGguvq8nObxR5LaF74Zw0_zYZ_beGeU8r5HGS_LpE2LVnOnDsrHb32gjQesYyzh_b2WQ4VWBA9GOw-lsb174YZO/d/IMG_2316-2.jpg" title="no bad vibes femme luxe tee - how to be a positive person - girl in vineyard" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Outfit Details</h1><p style="text-align: left;"><font size="3"><a href="https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/pink-no-bad-vibes-oversized-t-shirt-hannah" target="_blank">Pink No Bad Vibes Te</a><a href="https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/pink-no-bad-vibes-oversized-t-shirt-hannah" target="_blank">e (gifted) - Femme Luxe</a> | </font><a href="https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/light-acid-wash-straight-leg-ripped-jeans-jocelyn" style="text-align: right;" target="_blank">Blue Ripped Jeans (gifted - old) - Femme Luxe (similar linked)</a> | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bktlk" target="_blank">Bag - Coach (similar linked - affiliate link)</a> | <a href="https://www.nike.com/gb/t/air-max-270-react-shoe-vZMhXs/CZ0364-600" target="_blank">Trainer - Nike (similar linked)</a></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">I hope you found this post helpful! What are your tips for keeping those bad vibes out?</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Etsy</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Youtube</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><span style="font-size: small;"> | </span><a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Twitter</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="blsdk-follow" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Follow</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p></div></div></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-89010760309685528752020-07-01T18:30:00.036+01:002020-07-22T17:55:27.374+01:005 Ways To Find Motivation | What to do when you're feeling unmotivated | AD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwb30DfmmA1xPS-Et5nrgI2l9vK89QEdef1tut0WJREOFNLjHOnPhv9eSqBen4zM6GIUI0vDmKu8IIN_kkiBJWYHwtUOfKih8YyIeOgW1IgkehfEGTF6oUMlnny4NBOmUa0oC7BaeheB4n/s5472/IMG_2264-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwb30DfmmA1xPS-Et5nrgI2l9vK89QEdef1tut0WJREOFNLjHOnPhv9eSqBen4zM6GIUI0vDmKu8IIN_kkiBJWYHwtUOfKih8YyIeOgW1IgkehfEGTF6oUMlnny4NBOmUa0oC7BaeheB4n/d/IMG_2264-2.jpg" title="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitednB5lVdRL9kh8qB3IA_C7jZ5PWToPUPYaMeCH7U8Pn_csorh8dUbL4EXQvX1JPurAII668rkD-C8Ir84HqOSLzj2Gga-MFmMfsGwALPU-4SJ6EeMeNwdkfeJIv6komxMDRnGcrUkYjK/s5472/IMG_2274.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitednB5lVdRL9kh8qB3IA_C7jZ5PWToPUPYaMeCH7U8Pn_csorh8dUbL4EXQvX1JPurAII668rkD-C8Ir84HqOSLzj2Gga-MFmMfsGwALPU-4SJ6EeMeNwdkfeJIv6komxMDRnGcrUkYjK/d/IMG_2274.jpg" title="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtb3AptXqVhowokulvlGJSLul9sd5X39AQyNqY7cCo1kaK8SkwhkUPYJFlczc9Mb1iJPfKfNiLEtLytQh99TI7Vw0AqHRFGnPL8jSEs5PUw26VgYhLgMVLOkektokmVAlsj0fZM_MQKGWA/s5472/IMG_2261-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtb3AptXqVhowokulvlGJSLul9sd5X39AQyNqY7cCo1kaK8SkwhkUPYJFlczc9Mb1iJPfKfNiLEtLytQh99TI7Vw0AqHRFGnPL8jSEs5PUw26VgYhLgMVLOkektokmVAlsj0fZM_MQKGWA/d/IMG_2261-2.jpg" title="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>We can't always be productive and motivated. Sometimes you start your day with good intentions, yet still find yourself scrolling when you should be making your way through a to-do list, completely lacking any motivation to actually do the stuff. I've been there. I know it's frustrating having that nagging feeling of 'I should be doing this' and then desperately trying to push it to the back of your mind because Netflix is calling your name. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes our motivation levels drop during the day, and other times they're nowhere to be found when we wake up. When we've got things to do, goals to meet. If you want to feel like your best self, a lack of motivation can really get in the way of that. So today I've thought I'd share some tips on what to do when the motivation goes out the window, and advice on where to look for it again.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Here is a list of things to do when you're feeling unmotivated:</h1><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Move</h3><div><div>Sometimes we're just feeling a bit restless, our body wants to move rather than sit at a desk typing. So do exactly that. Go for a walk, a run, do a workout video, dance around your bedroom, find your zen by doing some Yoga (<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/02/yoga-with-adriene-30-day-challenge.html" target="_blank">I have a full blog post why to do a yoga challenge here</a>) - whatever suits you. Find a way to burn some of that energy. The combo of those post-workout endorphins and a break from the screen might be all you need to get back with that inspiration flowing.<br /><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Change your surroundings</h3><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes, something as simple as working somewhere new can really spice things up - or if that's not an option have a tidy and rejig of your desk. Our surrounding affect how we feel, so if they're feeling a little stale, you probably will too. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Listen to/watch motivating content </h3><div>Soon I will do a full blog post on the content I like to watch when I'm looking for that extra push of motivation. Don't underestimate the power of a Youtube video. I always have my most productive days when I've watched a motivating video or listening an inspire podcast while eating my breakfast. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Vision board</h3><div>I am a big fan of vision boarding (I have a blog post on it <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2019/01/creating-my-2019-vision-board.html" target="_blank">here</a> and videos <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ip503ycp1IY" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRAjqddlaXY&t=2s" target="_blank">here</a>). It helps to clarify where you're heading and what you're working towards. Plus it actually freaking works <i>(honestly I should have thought it through more when I added a magazine cutting which says "stay home, work out" to my 2020 vision board because it's certainly happened)</i>. If you don't feel motivated, it likely that it's because you've lost sight of your end goal - vision boarding will help you to figure out where you want to be heading.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Take a walk</h3><div>I pretty much say it every blogpost now<i> (see <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/06/lockdown-lessons-things-i-learned.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/how-to-relieve-stress-self-care.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/cute-affordable-date-ideas-for.html" target="_blank">here</a> - I guess I'm obsessed with walking)</i> - nature is healing, refreshing and inspiring. If you're not doing your work, you may as well take advantage of the benefits of spending time in the world around you.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Read</h3><div>You really can't bring yourself to go through your emails, write that blog post or do whatever you're supposed to be doing? Why not pick up a book? A self-development book might get you considering how to move forward with your goal or a fiction book can transport you to a new world, so your chill time will no longer include that nagging feeling of an untouched to-do list - <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/search/label/books" target="_blank">If you're looking for book recommendations you can find tonnes of reviews here</a>. </div></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsD1KS6C8h7_IpqQXYPJoQg5sMi7gbCPrUzon65ycSBNG-n6EhQyjksz4anX0tKuWYAbLKKLRb71MKshF-Z39xuzKKP78HUnp76qsy58NZPcK71Q6ryZ_fIXI9_m9voXF6HwW-WTGGK0RY/s5472/IMG_2262.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsD1KS6C8h7_IpqQXYPJoQg5sMi7gbCPrUzon65ycSBNG-n6EhQyjksz4anX0tKuWYAbLKKLRb71MKshF-Z39xuzKKP78HUnp76qsy58NZPcK71Q6ryZ_fIXI9_m9voXF6HwW-WTGGK0RY/d/IMG_2262.jpg" title="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Outfit Details</h1><div><a href="https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/pink-tie-dye-oversized-t-shirt-veda" target="_blank">Lilac Tie-Dye T-Shirt (which was kindly gifted from Femme Luxe): Available here</a></div><div><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bkt7w" target="_blank">Dungaree Pinafore (worn as a skirt with a tee over): Old, similar linked here</a></div><div><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bjAgr" target="_blank">Sandals: Old, similar linked here</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lQ6pLiQjg5N7rFxPmtohGyFIpPmk_4Ei20BjYdIpWSA7lf7uYAvTSl8o28vLRs-QaGTJfflsM-gZ5YmAtTIWgYUcfKDmJkCzRmkAt9LJpdI_kdsg-u86cgL2WLBBqnqJ5QSybKmf_jks/s5472/IMG_2272.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lQ6pLiQjg5N7rFxPmtohGyFIpPmk_4Ei20BjYdIpWSA7lf7uYAvTSl8o28vLRs-QaGTJfflsM-gZ5YmAtTIWgYUcfKDmJkCzRmkAt9LJpdI_kdsg-u86cgL2WLBBqnqJ5QSybKmf_jks/d/IMG_2272.jpg" title="Chloe Harriets wearing Femme Luxe lilac tie dye t-shirt - what to do when you're feeling unmotivated blogpost" /></a></div><div>Coming to the end of this post I've realised some of my tips are very similar to what I say in<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/06/5-habit-for-happiness-positive-habits.html" target="_blank"> my habits for happiness blog post</a>, but what can I say, for me, happiness and motivation go hand in hand.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you found this post useful! What do you do when you're in need of some motivation?</div></div><div><br /></div><div><font size="2">*The <a href="https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/" target="_blank">Femme Luxe</a> tee was gifted along with some other pieces which will feature in upcoming blog posts - I could have featured them all together but didn't want to overload this post with images - so I hope you don't mind more gifted posts in the near future.</font></div><div><font size="2">* Affiliate links are used in this blogpost</font></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #1779a5; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-bottom: 1rem; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates?ref=seller-platform-mcnav" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; margin-top: 1rem; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Etsy Store</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQUgMtxgpjyU_prTb2ExDUA?view_as=subscriber" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; margin-top: 1rem; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Youtube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; margin-top: 1rem; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; margin-top: 1rem; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; margin-top: 1rem; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; margin-top: 1rem; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Facebook</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #1779a5; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-bottom: 1rem; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJSg9u_YyUYa02lHhEglbszay-f-IPp4ofgzFuSGItoE1g4oL5rzgJ1hepz7qSx82rsZw_gj9hyr8XnS2IQ8IPF6xmLN9VNXsvlbTy9OSPZJX0iipW6SDJmjZVVuis0CKz7nCfJeYjbL2/s1600/IMG_0823.jpg" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-15237702887334162352020-06-24T18:30:00.011+01:002020-07-22T18:05:43.654+01:005 Habit for Happiness | Positive Habits for your Daily Routine.<div class="separator"><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6P9VfgI6gBopg_zPjQbOIh416Qfene3yts0A2PeMFtiAiq9jcK5ZkATPtHRMJJgExTf776fdkCe_lsCtdTFtrmG5vAMkQcgm27gulyq6Xq9rygjxYirDlpEF1NiI7vRgn62Tt4yjfm7Fn/s4282/IMG_2208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" border="0" data-original-height="3505" data-original-width="4282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6P9VfgI6gBopg_zPjQbOIh416Qfene3yts0A2PeMFtiAiq9jcK5ZkATPtHRMJJgExTf776fdkCe_lsCtdTFtrmG5vAMkQcgm27gulyq6Xq9rygjxYirDlpEF1NiI7vRgn62Tt4yjfm7Fn/d/IMG_2208.jpg" title="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3o-Cmys9YIRhyYJVQhX18FrcV6kQ__1iVhG342zXfXfsn08NPxb5WqiD4bMysDS9rF2iX2HT61c7ea74g4cEEGlO0J80YpCzJy-yPAaRvd6MBkPguhyrGXDZnGxvfmKuEdtME2gBQDEnm/s4580/IMG_2206.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" border="0" data-original-height="2779" data-original-width="4580" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3o-Cmys9YIRhyYJVQhX18FrcV6kQ__1iVhG342zXfXfsn08NPxb5WqiD4bMysDS9rF2iX2HT61c7ea74g4cEEGlO0J80YpCzJy-yPAaRvd6MBkPguhyrGXDZnGxvfmKuEdtME2gBQDEnm/d/IMG_2206.jpg" title="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQud7ZfU2b45WxFP_0PdGjdwDfBAnKunonEolU4Ac7f9UC3dZdt70NiD3m1bJVJO0WOgawTpAK7jmackc9wrDhzZj6bVYc6gthqBJJt_qJgk-3C_Vf8fsyesabvidZO79_hxY4WE7rMlv5/s3650/IMG_2209.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" border="0" data-original-height="3305" data-original-width="3650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQud7ZfU2b45WxFP_0PdGjdwDfBAnKunonEolU4Ac7f9UC3dZdt70NiD3m1bJVJO0WOgawTpAK7jmackc9wrDhzZj6bVYc6gthqBJJt_qJgk-3C_Vf8fsyesabvidZO79_hxY4WE7rMlv5/d/IMG_2209.jpg" title="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Recently I found myself falling out any routine, my once good habits became abandoned - I think the combination of being unwell, lockdown and moving into a new environment got to me, and I found it easy to push aside those little habits and daily routines, unaware of the impact it would have. After a few weeks of feeling all over the place and noticing the toll of that on my mental health, I realised I needed some positive routine back. So once again I've been developing new routines to follow, of the little things which keep my wellness up.<div><br /></div><div>In the future, I will post sine more detailed versions on my morning and evening routines (possibly on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQUgMtxgpjyU_prTb2ExDUA?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">my Youtube channel</a>, so make sure you're subscribed) but for now, I thought it would be nice to share some of the habits which have got me happier on the day-to-day.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">5 Habits for Happiness:</h1><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Journalling:</h3><div>Honestly, I find daily journaling has such a positive impact on my mental health. Just getting my thoughts and feelings out onto paper, makes me feel as if I've emptied any negativity from my mind. Sometimes I use journaling to get things on my chest, sometimes to express my hopes for the future - usually, it's just word vomit, I don't think about it too much, I just write what comes to mind and boy oh boy it can be therapeutic. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Reading:</h3><div>For me, there's no escape quite like reading - I find it transports me to another world and allows me to let go of my worries. I read everything from self-help to fiction, I listen to audiobooks, flick through pages, the lot. <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/search/label/books" target="_blank">You can read some of my book reviews here</a> or join me on my reading journey for this year with <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/01/chloe-harriets-2020-book-club.html" target="_blank">#chloeharrietsbookclub</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Moving your body:</h3><div><br /></div><div>When we work at desks, spent our evening binging Netflix, and our nights sleeping, it's easy to really not spend that much time moving... however I've found on those days I find myself more stationery than not, I feel a little slobby. Implicating more exercise in my routine has worked wonders for my mental health. I do regular fitness session via Zoom with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laurenalicefitness/" target="_blank">@laurenalicefitness</a>, and on the days which I'm not up for a full-on workout, I find something as simple as going for a walk or dancing in the kitchen gets those good endorphins going for me. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Going outside:</h3><div>Fresh air and nature are good for the soul. Yet still, it's super easy to end up cooped up in the house if I don't have plans (which I haven't had many of due to lockdown) so I've been making going outdoors a priority and taking myself for daily walks and it's been so refreshing - definitely, a habit to I need to keep up.</div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">- Phone free time:</h3><div>I've been trying to step away from my iPhone screen a little more because as we all know too much phone time isn't good for the brain. So recently I've committed to at least an hour before bed screen-free - and I'm just trying to leave my phone in a different room to me during to the day to ease back on the mindless scrolling, and I'm feeling so much better for it. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrC7UQ-wBCibNeUrb42H620mAaNKirGpbijSXUcAUPWyGcCYvSitdWQZEU775ukjwg9zkQQ5pJksiKHNYa5VhzdN8On8LY7_LnTx5qpgksUWMcGyQNbgmEh6n6oliq0mpef_LkEach_Xel/s5472/IMG_2214.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrC7UQ-wBCibNeUrb42H620mAaNKirGpbijSXUcAUPWyGcCYvSitdWQZEU775ukjwg9zkQQ5pJksiKHNYa5VhzdN8On8LY7_LnTx5qpgksUWMcGyQNbgmEh6n6oliq0mpef_LkEach_Xel/d/IMG_2214.jpg" title="Fashion blogger chloeharriets - outfit details - positive habits for happiness" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What daily habits do you try to keep up for a positive mind?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="2"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">Etsy</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-65991077404091464462020-06-17T18:30:00.009+01:002020-07-22T18:09:37.471+01:00Lockdown Lessons | The Things I Learnt During Lockdown.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL8a5jMX7MWmUZeTHBsWn4aUV1byjrV8zylyPsR9FJdNkZ7yulAOuKIpXxdkyovRhKFuSK9sL0fVXmuwRKFYUwiSXhvpoLnXB0mLwLAMP5bNxAk0XmoqHf2H-9lE-YrJfdul19zn1sCqc/s5472/IMG_2147.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL8a5jMX7MWmUZeTHBsWn4aUV1byjrV8zylyPsR9FJdNkZ7yulAOuKIpXxdkyovRhKFuSK9sL0fVXmuwRKFYUwiSXhvpoLnXB0mLwLAMP5bNxAk0XmoqHf2H-9lE-YrJfdul19zn1sCqc/d/IMG_2147.jpg" title="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic_RrimafQoH1K1FLHR-Pd17rDSQ4mYHVLj1XnZHanMBECzqkUVdBLE9-QP1g6C_b91jDHeJaUn0aCrn5DzPgeAM13-jGIOxCO_-yvbDMJdNWBIYCTEKKvmdIBZmHN2a-rkQO4BHnXOPRD/s5472/IMG_2149.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic_RrimafQoH1K1FLHR-Pd17rDSQ4mYHVLj1XnZHanMBECzqkUVdBLE9-QP1g6C_b91jDHeJaUn0aCrn5DzPgeAM13-jGIOxCO_-yvbDMJdNWBIYCTEKKvmdIBZmHN2a-rkQO4BHnXOPRD/d/IMG_2149.jpg" title="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypn6Mw069dFierNeptJxW4ztIi5CRU0jp_u9Oh0CKW_8jUFsF87Qwa7z3jiD2V14O47nSblVhZrhEvlmlScWR7kIGkCC8NNdWjV1u0iqfi1WHVFkTxg_zkWc77qbTk6YusnkbjSu3CJhZ/s4867/IMG_2146.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="4867" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypn6Mw069dFierNeptJxW4ztIi5CRU0jp_u9Oh0CKW_8jUFsF87Qwa7z3jiD2V14O47nSblVhZrhEvlmlScWR7kIGkCC8NNdWjV1u0iqfi1WHVFkTxg_zkWc77qbTk6YusnkbjSu3CJhZ/d/IMG_2146.jpg" title="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-pQbR3KI-TnpUJwGzY2NA2wYZuBqAUfcq5PuQC5ZW5Wo752uJs9WPA9nngKeJJHMHQP8OqTMbJf8v-DxmveKrTenv58-3JboOLEUEWIDC8Ryun-5MkTjKmUqZH9MYxchnkNVwgZoivsk/s3973/IMG_2159.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="3973" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-pQbR3KI-TnpUJwGzY2NA2wYZuBqAUfcq5PuQC5ZW5Wo752uJs9WPA9nngKeJJHMHQP8OqTMbJf8v-DxmveKrTenv58-3JboOLEUEWIDC8Ryun-5MkTjKmUqZH9MYxchnkNVwgZoivsk/d/IMG_2159.jpg" title="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">With many of us in lockdown due to Coronavirus, it's safe to say the past few months have been a bit of a weird time. Going into this, something I didn't expect was being in lockdown to teach me so many life lessons. Although it's been an uncertain, scary time, for me </span><i style="text-align: left;">(who luckily hasn't been directly impacted by the virus beyond lockdown)</i><span style="text-align: left;">, the staying home, and slowing down part, has been sort of cathartic. I've found beyond those random general knowledge questions we all suddenly know from our Friday night Zoom quizzes, I've learned a fair amount.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7i3gs-h60devgU8fkBpG9MLwMuQ9ycNpkWJb6886W2uVjt0Kwo93yqQxgAaEWLYEpqy9mpwppSrpb9vvfDsFoeUwjpU9xxJpalexm73QMXMgFhd7ECFmq2HZu3AgihogRn12H2-EYgr6Y/s5472/IMG_2171.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="pink peonies in a garden" border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7i3gs-h60devgU8fkBpG9MLwMuQ9ycNpkWJb6886W2uVjt0Kwo93yqQxgAaEWLYEpqy9mpwppSrpb9vvfDsFoeUwjpU9xxJpalexm73QMXMgFhd7ECFmq2HZu3AgihogRn12H2-EYgr6Y/d/IMG_2171.jpg" title="pink peonies in a garden" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><br />So here are some things I've learnt during lockdown:</h1><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">-You don't always have to be productive:</h4><div>When lockdown was first announced, I wrote <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/03/my-lockdown-goals-being-productive.html" target="_blank">this blogpost of my lockdown goals</a>, and to put it simply - it went to shit. With the pandemic going on, alongside personal things, I didn't always feel like being productive. After weeks of struggling to push against that, I decided to lean into it. I let myself rest. I played The Sims, at first I felt guilty because I felt I should have been putting that time elsewhere, and then I realised I was playing because it's fun, and just because time isn't necessarily spent in the most productive way, that doesn't mean it's wasted. Enjoyment is not a waste of time. <h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />- Nature is healing</h4><div><div>I went on a lot of walks during lockdown - I walked the route I'd normally take to get to the bus stop, which used to feel like a chore and I realised it's nice to be out in the fresh air, even if it's just to end up back at home. I explored the area I live more than ever before, discovered fields of flowers and took in views I've never seen before, which are a stone's throw from my house. I'd return home from my walks, and I feel more peaceful and grounded than I did before I stepped outside.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /> - Good friends will stay good friends without constant contact:</h4><div>When this all began, I found myself worried about the implications on my friendships - not being able to see someone can have its effects on relationships, however, it didn't take long to realise that the friendships I have are good ones, and they will still be there when this is all over. Of course, we used technology to aid staying in touch - but there was an awareness that the conversation didn't have to be constant, as we all need to live beyond our phones and laptops too</div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />- You should accept when you feel low:</h4><div>We can't feel good 100% of the time, and as much as I understand the importance of a positive mindset (I have blog posts on that <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2019/06/how-to-shift-your-mindset-and-tea.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2016/01/good-vibes-only.html" target="_blank">here</a>), and avoiding a negative spiral - feelings are human and we are allowed to feel them. Sometimes trying so hard to be positive when you're feeling low can be counter-productive because we end up feeling worse due to the guilt of it not working when you're trying to force a positive feeling. Sometimes it's good to wallow, to cry it all out. Holding onto negative emotion is a recipe for disaster. </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">- You can figure things out as you go along:</h4><div>Something I ended up doing in lockdown, was creating <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a>. It wasn't planned, it just sort of happened - <i>more on that in <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/04/introducing-chloe-harriets-creates-my.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a></i>. As a natural planner, it was terrifying to launch right into something without months of calculating all the details, but it felt right so I just went for it. I didn't have it all figured out, instead I made things up as I went along, as it's working out pretty well. If I had spent months planning it, there a chance that I would have given up before I began. Sometimes I think all you need to do is start, you can figure out the rest of the stuff as you go. </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">- You already have valuable skills:</h4><div>Continuing on with lessons which came from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a> venture, something else it taught me is that you already have so many skills, that you maybe just forgot about. It wasn't until I created my Etsy store, that I realised being able to sew and make quality products is a valuable skill. As is using a camera to take decent pictures to show off my products. Sometimes I think we sell ourselves a bit short and forget about all the great things we can already do. </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">- You don't have to see someone in person to connect, but there is something special about the human touch:</h4></div><div>For me, lockdown meant months without seeing my boyfriend or friends - but I've not felt disconnected from my social circle if anything the opposite. Not being able to see friends has made us creative and encouraged us to reach out and make sure we're keeping contact when in ordinary life we might just wait until the next time we see each other to catch up. I'm not a very touchy person, so it did come as a surprise to me, over the past few months something I've found myself missing, is physical contact with my friends - a simple hug goodbye, walking with arms linked, the brush of hands during conversations - those things can't be replaced on Zoom.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">- Getting dressed and getting ready changes how you feel, and those things should be done for you.</h4><div>At the start of lockdown, I lived in my PJs and inturn felt pretty slobby and unproductive. My good days have been those that I spent time in the morning, thinking about what I want to wear and have let my appearance reflect how I wanted to feel. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">- Working out is good for the mind:</h4><div>Something which has been a constant for me in lockdown is working out, and I'm not your typical gym bunny<i> (I've never been to one in my life actually)</i> (<a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2018/09/my-relationship-with-exercise.html" target="_blank">you can read more about my on/off relationship with exercise here</a>). But during lockdown, I've been doing Zoom workouts with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laurenalicefitness/" target="_blank">@laurenalicefitness</a> and it's paid off. I've always felt more positive and productive on the days I've worked out. It's also added structure to the endless days at home, plus my body is looking, and feeling better than ever </div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />- It takes the smallest things to make things special: </h4><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Dates nights don't have to include going to fancy restaurants, putting a little more effort into cooking, setting the table nicely and lighting a candle can make what would be you standard dinner at h</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">ome </span>special. You can celebrate from your living room with the right music. Add fairy lights, some snacks and a blanket and there is even magic in watching a bit of tv. </span></p></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Y8XZ6kLDTkvGIEXeTOmXSi5ummC1r9sp8hXK-MMCVJ9u2LL5HfsR3A8QmcnJamKzwFtyIOrPzxFVuRT8_aB4264JgRkm0USAI_-kwzL_1HYNcW527EDO2bCgWTzBT226gjtor-e_NByA/s5472/IMG_2148.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Y8XZ6kLDTkvGIEXeTOmXSi5ummC1r9sp8hXK-MMCVJ9u2LL5HfsR3A8QmcnJamKzwFtyIOrPzxFVuRT8_aB4264JgRkm0USAI_-kwzL_1HYNcW527EDO2bCgWTzBT226gjtor-e_NByA/d/IMG_2148.jpg" title="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6YjC_TPwKaFtZP-kz7ShA-4CujX5_O8PykYM_A06srCk0zOn47x9nC5_CXffR72h38t8d8RH63aoEoNiDZuVF39XAuCUgU3g2RLXtnM4nbebfaRwp9LSf4bYL1Qb997dgzrnpAyLV9Bw/s5472/IMG_2166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6YjC_TPwKaFtZP-kz7ShA-4CujX5_O8PykYM_A06srCk0zOn47x9nC5_CXffR72h38t8d8RH63aoEoNiDZuVF39XAuCUgU3g2RLXtnM4nbebfaRwp9LSf4bYL1Qb997dgzrnpAyLV9Bw/d/IMG_2166.jpg" title="blonde blogger girl chloe harriets reflecting on the things she learned during lockdown in garden of peonies. 2020 coronavirus lockdown lessons." /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Etsy</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: center;"> | </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: center;"> | </span><a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Twitter</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: center;"> | </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1779a5; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; text-align: center;"> | </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #f48e57; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.32px; margin-top: 1rem; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out 0s;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-52009816389001601842020-05-27T18:30:00.004+01:002020-07-22T18:19:00.496+01:00Creating the Perfect Unboxing Experince | Ad - Sponsored <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-V0XFz0qeuZdRbTR5Gxj0BEwBfx8pHpd0oalNau81sZBRZgciiUkxxzafUAoOIsNcY1nJBXxUs4G0tAmSHZUWOJwVgUG845_uy9S4pP8rbI5x9gui-_5r7US-HG3pDhavigUL1K-rfVZ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-V0XFz0qeuZdRbTR5Gxj0BEwBfx8pHpd0oalNau81sZBRZgciiUkxxzafUAoOIsNcY1nJBXxUs4G0tAmSHZUWOJwVgUG845_uy9S4pP8rbI5x9gui-_5r7US-HG3pDhavigUL1K-rfVZ/d/IMG_2188.jpg" title="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBkd7rkcYNE8QyLUFZnYEhirV9DVoaEl2IbPg0zLmyfHHQzZAa5oqJmYJKXaNUkIFvn0AFczk4JrHZk352TGXWRKsoRADGTA-3rss3fSWjsy8-B93H158xZfr1jI2pr7GBQ9XWajvBCRaL/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" border="0" data-original-height="3536" data-original-width="3743" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBkd7rkcYNE8QyLUFZnYEhirV9DVoaEl2IbPg0zLmyfHHQzZAa5oqJmYJKXaNUkIFvn0AFczk4JrHZk352TGXWRKsoRADGTA-3rss3fSWjsy8-B93H158xZfr1jI2pr7GBQ9XWajvBCRaL/d/IMG_2179.jpg" title="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaCRaYDq6e2Bt1Avpznc4dzSN6OATDaS84DlJ2CoVIsdqPc7czKoa-F3FngSXKNOXGLwmCfaxZnoWLZo8fBl-JjyOdZdhw-9Ca6DUkzI4ww14nTDOAmkmfw_PU3d02LwmO6tJxt7N8MDt/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaCRaYDq6e2Bt1Avpznc4dzSN6OATDaS84DlJ2CoVIsdqPc7czKoa-F3FngSXKNOXGLwmCfaxZnoWLZo8fBl-JjyOdZdhw-9Ca6DUkzI4ww14nTDOAmkmfw_PU3d02LwmO6tJxt7N8MDt/d/IMG_2187.jpg" title="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLIf24F077ZA6RzhGdg-zd8Sw6DhTUI-ASqxZ_C2uJk5RFVYx2Iq6-d2Q8KJskqDDfWPL9J5nMg0GcQ2OpESt9pu6FyVQ82lh6bw1Dg5_OYLwjWn-Y7ZjE_aKJk5Wxrc32SDLhtWSXsq5s/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" border="0" data-original-height="3537" data-original-width="5156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLIf24F077ZA6RzhGdg-zd8Sw6DhTUI-ASqxZ_C2uJk5RFVYx2Iq6-d2Q8KJskqDDfWPL9J5nMg0GcQ2OpESt9pu6FyVQ82lh6bw1Dg5_OYLwjWn-Y7ZjE_aKJk5Wxrc32SDLhtWSXsq5s/d/IMG_2198.jpg" title="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" /></a></div><div><br /></div>If you read <a href="https://www.chloeharriets.com/2020/04/introducing-chloe-harriets-creates-my.html" target="_blank">this post</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">follow me on Instagram</a>, you'll know I recently launched <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a>. One aspect of becoming a small business owner I didn't expect to feel like such a big deal is the packaging - I mean obviously I realised orders would need to be packaged, but I did not expect that I'd spend so much time considering my best <a href="#" id="https://www.lilpackaging.com/" name="https://www.lilpackaging.com/">cardboard packaging</a> option or to fall in love with that part of the process carefully packing orders while simultaneously taking my time to figure out the best way to do it. Launching my Etsy store has been a learning curve, and the packing is most definitely included in that.<div><br /></div><div>Being a creative, I want my packaging to be pretty, I want it to be clear to the buyer that I've put love into every part of the process, but also - I don't want it to be wasteful. I don't want to be contributing to unnecessary plastic use. Something else which is important to me as a small business owner is making it personal - it means so much to me each time somebody places an order that the least I can do is packaging their order in a way in which is personal to the buyer - a handwritten note, is something I can offer as a small business that bigger businesses aren't able to, and I feel that just adds an extra sprinkle of love to the packaging. Alongside the prettiness, packaging also has a purpose, to get the parcel from A to B safely, arriving at its new home in the same condition which it left mine. So I've been looking for a balance.</div><div>A way to create the perfect unboxing experience for my customers. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was recently contacted by <a href="https://www.lilpackaging.com/" target="_blank">Lil Packaging</a>, who specialise in <a href="#" id="https://www.lilpackaging.com/" name="https://www.lilpackaging.com/">cardboard packaging</a> about working together on this post - I accepted when I realised affordable, sustainable, plastic-free packaging was a missing piece, in my mission to create the perfect unboxing experience. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b>Here are the steps I take to create the perfect unboxing experience:</h2><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Triple check the items:</b> Before I pack up any of my scrunchies, facemask or other goodies, I do one last quality control check (despite having checked several times during the making process), just to be sure the item I'm sending out is as good as it can be. I check there are no loose threads that need trimming, no wobbly seams or any final adjustments I need to make. When the buyer comes to unboxing I want to ensure they are happy with the quality of the product.</li><li><b>Ensure the goodies are safe and protected: </b>One of the most important things to make sure is everything arrives in top condition. So once I've checked it all over, I make sure the item is completely protected. I wrap the items in colourful tissue paper which the buyer can, of course, choose to reuse. And seal it with a sticker or some washi tape. At some point, I will invest in some branded stickers, which are as environmentally friendly - but for now, I've been enjoying choosing a different sticker from my collection for each person. Once it is all wrapped up out of harm's way, the next step is to choose what to post it in. Lil packaging are a great choice for cardboard packaging - it keeps sending stuff out plastic-free, and offers the peace of mind that the items are secure. They even have the option to choose the packaging depending on Royal Mail sizing, which allows me to keep postage costs at the minimum, and avoid busy post offices during this pandemic as I can be certain my parcels make it into the large letter category.</li><li><b>Keep your wrapping as environmentally friendly as possible: </b>I don't want my business impacting our planet, so I do my best to keep it as environmentally friendly as possible, opting for cardboard packaging rather than plastic, tissue to paper rather than bubble wrap and card gift tags, making the packaging either reusable or recyclable. </li><li><b>Wrap each item with love: </b>As much as I'm up for saving time, I like to keep packing my items as a slow process, I want to ensure I put love into it - I think the way in which I package the items show my appreciation to those who choose to spend their money in my store. I wrap each item slightly differently, choosing different coloured tissue paper and gift tags, washi tape and stickers for each - I enjoy the creative process of it each time I think that really helps make for the perfect unboxing experience for my buyers.</li><li><b>Include your branding, and links where possible:</b> As a new, small business, branding is a huge way to bring customers in and to bring them back. The perfect unboxing should have positive implications for both the buyer and the seller. So I like to try to promote my business within the unboxing process. As a new store owner, I'm yet to invest in branded stationery for this part (although it is coming, I promise) instead I've been using up what I already have, as I figured that option is best for the environment and the Chloe Harriets Creates money pot. Waiting to invest in branded stationery, has meant getting creative. Using my dynamo label maker to write my brand name on gift tags, including the brands <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharrietscreates/" target="_blank">Instagram handle <i>(it's @chloeharrietscreates - go follow)</i></a> in the note I write for the buyer and popping in a (now quite old) business card with my blog details on so it's clear where else to find me</li><li><b>Make it personal: </b>For the perfect unboxing experience, you want it to feel personal. You want the unboxing to feel special to the buyer, you want your customer to feel valued before as they take out your product - that why I'm sure to write handwritten thank you notes to each customer.</li><li><b>Pretty it up: </b>Everyone is a sucker for cute packaging right?! You can't create the perfect unboxing experience without it. Whether it's adding cute stickers, colourful washi tape or stickers. The pretty details make all the difference to an unboxing experience.</li></ul></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiLOTUe2OObd-kF1NSZKQ3qIMwjFvb-jdBJJRHYoRmwhnMaDM5HJ16wh03PIKNUKp6sQ7qgc1pxmKWaeoKIpcuCcl7eVZgVJM18XjQhaYkhr1MfSQp2_ZItDU5VD2i5UA32LNjuOexBO4F/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiLOTUe2OObd-kF1NSZKQ3qIMwjFvb-jdBJJRHYoRmwhnMaDM5HJ16wh03PIKNUKp6sQ7qgc1pxmKWaeoKIpcuCcl7eVZgVJM18XjQhaYkhr1MfSQp2_ZItDU5VD2i5UA32LNjuOexBO4F/d/IMG_2200.jpg" title="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAzHKvKWrxUVshmobirvbqsNTcXem_5BqLkbRd3aTPwIvVn9SHI39537fVQte0aQMJO4p6V6jNboz1VTK7V50PxuxYMi_oJt8wABE5vQiFQrgY2YhumVIxc95lMQ0cuVoOXvybnYt2GYz0/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" border="0" data-original-height="3550" data-original-width="4753" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAzHKvKWrxUVshmobirvbqsNTcXem_5BqLkbRd3aTPwIvVn9SHI39537fVQte0aQMJO4p6V6jNboz1VTK7V50PxuxYMi_oJt8wABE5vQiFQrgY2YhumVIxc95lMQ0cuVoOXvybnYt2GYz0/d/IMG_2190.jpg" title="How to create the perfect unboxing experience for etsy buyers - flatlay image" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to see more updates from my Etsy store, you can follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharrietscreates/" target="_blank">@chloeharrietscreates on Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">visit the store here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates?ref=seller-platform-mcnav" target="_blank"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Etsy Store</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQUgMtxgpjyU_prTb2ExDUA?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">Youtube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Facebook</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJSg9u_YyUYa02lHhEglbszay-f-IPp4ofgzFuSGItoE1g4oL5rzgJ1hepz7qSx82rsZw_gj9hyr8XnS2IQ8IPF6xmLN9VNXsvlbTy9OSPZJX0iipW6SDJmjZVVuis0CKz7nCfJeYjbL2/s1600/IMG_0823.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a class="blsdk-follow" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a></div>Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236538618732252392.post-45983415693937688432020-05-20T18:30:00.001+01:002020-07-22T18:25:55.769+01:00Tips on How to Enjoy Instagram Again.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLroMHZJ80e7CkcKqIYk0BXR8XkMDq4db-8_hoVl35JvBU9pRHG5jMlcUwHQ-9EaMqM1GCAPAyl2PZ6gon8E6OF5dpbTWBBTFCuFPlswnV7dbs2LeBxCsChvUWyYm3U6UzwhS8bTBuD_s/s1600/IMG_2140-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLroMHZJ80e7CkcKqIYk0BXR8XkMDq4db-8_hoVl35JvBU9pRHG5jMlcUwHQ-9EaMqM1GCAPAyl2PZ6gon8E6OF5dpbTWBBTFCuFPlswnV7dbs2LeBxCsChvUWyYm3U6UzwhS8bTBuD_s/d/IMG_2140-2.jpg" title="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nq60VcZoKut1NI6pkdEd2QESroMa_OqBz4Q9TYdVOtHf_dYbOgRNLzSVoyubW1DXGPAvP6iBuHqzh516vTkUv0URts-smCs4WmqMd9adoSZzL2X0784SzoRGtIVkY9dlWitb7fX4AaOa/s1600/IMG_2125-4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nq60VcZoKut1NI6pkdEd2QESroMa_OqBz4Q9TYdVOtHf_dYbOgRNLzSVoyubW1DXGPAvP6iBuHqzh516vTkUv0URts-smCs4WmqMd9adoSZzL2X0784SzoRGtIVkY9dlWitb7fX4AaOa/d/IMG_2125-4.jpg" title="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilegPPzSsM-Ev10-M5X57B7ktRaKZ3rrn9Afyu8JMrrtoDSdxnMXREqSglQ8earLcxOKH8ODENb82HaRlCGMwndH5K8fhyphenhyphenOGrYLSqAr9-pSP-dhIZ-oyNsSUM5pKgcalahRTdbInv-EmSq/s1600/2xx.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" border="0" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilegPPzSsM-Ev10-M5X57B7ktRaKZ3rrn9Afyu8JMrrtoDSdxnMXREqSglQ8earLcxOKH8ODENb82HaRlCGMwndH5K8fhyphenhyphenOGrYLSqAr9-pSP-dhIZ-oyNsSUM5pKgcalahRTdbInv-EmSq/d/2xx.jpg" title="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbA3q90vqOidEqobkWl05bX2H_6eT0MXCdIiHUxuAlw8OC5NsAcXdCuKoXXsaVzfj1aMnNjUMO6-dYFbYlVX7ZX84UYSbDwriQTRdThkF8bKeLzC0ynfQoF6k1lmrQlb9HRl7jwdPzKh8c/s1600/IMG_2138-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbA3q90vqOidEqobkWl05bX2H_6eT0MXCdIiHUxuAlw8OC5NsAcXdCuKoXXsaVzfj1aMnNjUMO6-dYFbYlVX7ZX84UYSbDwriQTRdThkF8bKeLzC0ynfQoF6k1lmrQlb9HRl7jwdPzKh8c/d/IMG_2138-2.jpg" title="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Remember that time, way back when... Instagram was fun?! Back before you used to obsess over numbers and photo edits? When it didn't need to reflect a perfect life, just the one you were living? Well, I have gone back to that and I'm loving it.<br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, I decided, I had two choices when it came to Instagram - to find a way to start enjoying it again, or stop bothering with it altogether. It simply wasn't fun anymore and why put my time into something which isn't fun? So I decided to make a change. I'm not a quitter and I didn't really want to say goodbye to those little squares that I'd spent the last few years curating. So instead, I looked for the positives. I searched for the joy the app used to bring me, and I found it - in today's blog post I thought I'd share how.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VpziQSTotPUody9Smq9CkNGQzNQZeMqvLbXsMAxqqe2PfWBra9wnjaVIuYrEF6IGxYsN5VGv7ceea28cd3wGuKl-zWN6i2yVrLciddrpidqDyn3wsVBeGkIgg8rgbZSJKR0A1hBlR_dr/s1600/IMG_2131-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VpziQSTotPUody9Smq9CkNGQzNQZeMqvLbXsMAxqqe2PfWBra9wnjaVIuYrEF6IGxYsN5VGv7ceea28cd3wGuKl-zWN6i2yVrLciddrpidqDyn3wsVBeGkIgg8rgbZSJKR0A1hBlR_dr/d/IMG_2131-2.jpg" title="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" /></a></div>
<h2>
So for those who are stuck in an Instagram rut, like I was, here are my tips for enjoying it all over again:</h2>
<h4>
- Lean into the bits you like:</h4>
There are so many things we do can do with Instagram - from photography to caption writing, to curating a feed, posing for pictures, video editing and the list goes on. Naturally, when given that long list of things, there will be the parts which you're doing because you think it's expected, and the parts which get you excited. Lean into those exciting bits. If you love the photography, then use Instagram as an excuse spend more time with your camera, if writing is a hobby of yours, show that off in the captions, or post your writing to your grid. The bits you enjoy, that's where you get to have the most fun, be your most creative.<br />
<br />
<h4>
- Step away from the bits you don't:</h4>
As well as leaning into the bits you enjoy, you need to step away from the bits you don't. Do you find it a hassle editing your photos, then don't do it. Can never think of any cool captions to write? A couple of emojis will do. You shouldn't have to put your time and energy into the aspects of a phone app which feel like a chore.<br />
<br />
<h4>
- Photo challenges: </h4>
Now, this will only apply to those that are in the love photography camp. Something which has got me back to loving Instagram is photo challenges. They've inspired me with what to post and I've found myself snapping things I wouldn't usually. Following in hashtags for these challenges have helped me find new great accounts to follow, and I've felt a sense of community on Instagram again. If you're curious, I've been doing the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zoella/" target="_blank">Zoella</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/comewhatmay/" target="_blank">#comewhatmay</a> challenge and occasionally the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shotfromthestreet/" target="_blank">Shotfromthestreet</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/shotwiththetheme/" target="_blank">#shotwiththetheme</a> challenge.<br />
<br />
<h4>
- Unfollow:</h4>
The obvious one. Not only do you want Instagram to a fun place to post, but you also want it to be a nice place to hang out, where scrolling doesn't leave you feeling inadequate. Firstly, any accounts of people to who trigger that comparison side to you. just unfollow them. You definitely should not be comparing or obsessing over anyone else Instagram accounts (and not your own too). I think I've got the not comparing things on my own Instagram down (how is coming in the next bullet point) - however, it's something I've been struggling with when it comes to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharrietscreates/" target="_blank">my new Instagram account</a> for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a>, where my account is new and I'm still finding my footing - so I've figured out, there's an account, who hasn't done anything wrong, but somewhere in my mind I set up a competition between us, and because of that I've found myself sad, that I wasn't winning the imaginary competition. - which is ridiculous. So I've stepped away from that account. I don't need to watch their stories or check how many followers they have - it's not serving me. Over the next few weeks, be a bit stricter with who you're following, anyone who pops up on your feed that you find yourself uninterested in, unfollow them too. Laura Jane Williams once said to me "Instagram is a magazine which you curate yourself" Don't have content in that magazine that you don't enjoy.<br />
<h4>
- Ignore the numbers: </h4>
If you're going to change one thing about how you do Instagram, make this it. I know, when you're a bloggers/influencer as numbers can translate to jobs- but I've always found when I don't think of, or obsess over my follow count it grows anyway. When you stop worrying about the number and how to make them grow, it makes it easier to lean into the bits you like and step away from the bits you don't. Follow counts and numbers of likes you get does not translate into your worth - so obsessing over them - it's not helping your account anyways.<br />
<h4>
<br />- Engage with your community:</h4>
I've made friends on Instagram, and it feels like a place with shoulders to lean on. A community of people who inspire me. That's how you want it to feel. Engage with your community, get to know your followers and appreciate the time they take to engage with your content - you never know, you might also make a few friends like I have done.<br />
<br />
<h4>
- Remember, your feed doesn't have to be a masterpiece:</h4>
If you want to post something, whether not it fits with your feed you should be able to. Remember you are one person and it's perfectly normal that you don't have a professional photographer follow you around on the daily. It doesn't have to be perfect, you just have to enjoy it, otherwise, what's the point?!<br />
<br />
Remember, you get to choose how you use this app, there's no right or wrong way. Any pressure there, you've probably put on yourself, so instead be gentle with yourself, and open your eyes to the enjoyment Instagram can bring you.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6K92nSMDAQSza4nsf2g2m58buUZqpX2HmWkoExgFUTpscsZ-XtIcC9KdrtI-NVtBKXig2NcrS5sS5FkMDVU7N9wjEHnXY_Yt5pwOZKs3k7h10ch7dB0XxLtUdOl6rcme0hdEbn8n0Bh2y/s1600/IMG_2139-2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6K92nSMDAQSza4nsf2g2m58buUZqpX2HmWkoExgFUTpscsZ-XtIcC9KdrtI-NVtBKXig2NcrS5sS5FkMDVU7N9wjEHnXY_Yt5pwOZKs3k7h10ch7dB0XxLtUdOl6rcme0hdEbn8n0Bh2y/s1600/IMG_2139-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6K92nSMDAQSza4nsf2g2m58buUZqpX2HmWkoExgFUTpscsZ-XtIcC9KdrtI-NVtBKXig2NcrS5sS5FkMDVU7N9wjEHnXY_Yt5pwOZKs3k7h10ch7dB0XxLtUdOl6rcme0hdEbn8n0Bh2y/d/IMG_2139-2.jpg" title="girl wearing red dress in flower garden - fashion blogger tips to enjoy instagram again" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chloeharriets/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ChloeHarrietsCreates" target="_blank">Etsy</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQUgMtxgpjyU_prTb2ExDUA?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">Youtube</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chloeharriets" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chloe-harriets-12096431" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script>
</div>
Chloe Harrietshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06123055743196177327noreply@blogger.com0