The Friend Strategy
If we’re being honest with ourselves there have been moments that make you think it would be a good investment to add a few names to the friends list. The idea is almost cringe worthy but oddly exciting because deep down inside you know it could be achieved.
As we learn new skills, we should focus on the potential of partnerships. Of course, we have our close network of what some refer to as ‘the chosen few’. That select group of ride or die, forever up for whatever people, that accept us in the most familiar form. Yet, if we’re being honest with ourselves there have been moments that make you think it would be a good investment to add a few names to the friends list. The idea is almost cringe worthy but oddly exciting because deep down inside you know it could be achieved. Although there may be a slight feeling of annoyance, anxiousness, and apprehension a good way to overcome those emotions would be to incorporate a strategy to help you meet and cultivate new friendships for potential partnerships (that aren’t romantic). Go beyond the basic catch and release technique. Go big and start making waves to connect with people and focus less on the photo ops. Of course, everyone loves a great memory accompanied by a great photo. So, before you tap, click, or snap your next milestone be sure to tell a joke, collect a few names and exchange information before you go your separate ways. Connect to reflect and be prepared to follow up.
The Friend Strategy:
Make a list: Create a list of qualities you would like to see in the new people you would like to meet. The objective is to become open with people. You don’t have to have everything in common to be present and engage in good conversation.
Avoid overthinking: Don’t be over analytical or judgmental. Be willing to have new experiences within a safe level of comfort that will allow you to explore new perspectives.
Stay away from narcissistic behavior: This statement does not imply that it could be coming from the other people. Make sure you share the floor and add something to the conversation that allows other people to feel seen and heard as well.
Travel: Go to new places to give yourself a new perspective. It’s great to plan an adventure with a crowd or plus one. However, you may also meet them once you arrive unexpectedly.
Smile: A friendly demeanor can go along way. It may feel or seem awkward, just stick with it.
Tips on Building a Budget
What’s your budget plan? Creating your own rewards program, based on the money you save is a great way to personalize your incentives and hold yourself accountable.
As we work our way through the year we encounter numerous opportunities to spend money and charge experiences without fully counting the costs. With inflation on the raise and some of our most basic necessities like food, water, and gas increasingly becoming more expensive it makes sense to have a game plan during economic uncertainty. No one knows your spending habits more than you. You’re in control. Saving money is a great game plan. So, decide to look at it from every angle.
Building a small savings account may seem like a large task. Start with small sacrifices, purchasing adjustments, and delayed rewards. Cutting back on spending doesn’t make your personal brand less authentic as a person. Depending on your daily routine and monthly expenses, you may consider reduce your venti latte to a sophisticated small coffee. Or, possibly consider making your own meals during the week. Creating your own rewards program, based on the money you save is a great way to personalize your incentives and hold yourself accountable.
The best tip for creating your own budget is to be honest about your cash goals. Be reasonable regarding the process. Reward yourself for being disciplined and take advantage of great deals.
Set a weekly amount to allocate for miscellaneous purchases. Cash over credit. Although both are beneficial, paying debts can arguably be considered the new sexy. Why? It implies organization and a level of self-imposed accountability. And, if you leverage your iphone or android to create a pay schedule financing that next getaway will become more enjoyable.
Avoid FOMO Reflex
Managing how to be present and plugged in to everyone and everything at the same time can be exhausting. Although the current cultural climate suggests any sensible and advised individual be well versed in the subject matter of every trending topic, let’s face it. It’s an unreasonable request.
Managing how to be present and plugged in to everyone and everything at the same time can be exhausting. Although the current cultural climate suggests any sensible and advised individual be well versed in the subject matter of every trending topic, let’s face it. It’s an unreasonable request. The art of maintaining a productive lifestyle revolves around the ability to strategically identify what behaviors align with keeping you at your most productive (as it relates to accomplishing your goals).
Becoming hyper-sensitive and over exposed in an over-the-top tabloid driven social media climate creates a loss of perspective. As entertaining headlines become even more polarizing, where is the added value? It can be challenging to find reasons to fight the irresistible urge to stop scrolling, liking, retweeting and deep diving further into click bait taglines that ignite the impulsive errors of the FOMO (fear of missing out) reflex.
Never assume the best finds are taking place online. Balance interest with intrigue. Although you will find great points of interest. Remember, the best moments are discovered when you’re at the center of the action. Live the moments you love to see. Experience the best of yourself through the tasks you complete. This post is not to suggest that you stop scrolling. The objective is to encourage you to maintain an unbiased view of your affiliations and expectations.