Friday, 1 September 2023

10 Habits That Will Help You Build Mental Strength

10 Habits That Will Help You Build Mental Strength.
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Ever feel like life’s throwing you more curveballs than expected? It’s all about how you swing back. Dealing with those unforeseen twists depends on your knack for bouncing back, adapting, and keeping your emotional compass steady. A UK research dug deep and found that solid habits can make all the difference in your life, leading to a happier life. It’s never too early or too late to take a step toward building mental toughness today. Here are ten game-changers that can boost your mental muscles, propelling you past challenges and improving your daily life. 


  1. Set SMART goals

 

Do you want to supercharge your motivation? Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals can help you achieve this. These are like your goal compass, steering your motivation and helping you keep your focus laser-sharp. Instead of wandering around in a haze, these goals light up the way to those milestones that truly matter. Whether you’re acing that passion project, chasing career dreams, or smashing your fitness goals, SMART goals are your secret sauce for building the mental strength needed for achieving those goals. Setting such goals also makes tracking your progress easier and identifying which areas you can improve so your eye is always on the ball.


  1. Embrace change


Change is the wild card life deals us. You have two choices: roll the dice yourself or feel overwhelmed by the game. But let’s face it, change is that one guest who never RSVPs, no matter how hard you try. However, flexing mental muscles means not cowering from change but forging it. But hold on; this doesn't suggest rushing into things. It’s about taking calculated risks. After all, personal growth doesn't bloom in your cosy corners. If you’re into levelling up, brace for change. It would be best to dance with discomfort because dodging pain does more harm than a face-off. Start with a mindset that sparks shifts if change’s on your wish list.


  1. Don't shy away from solitude; make friends with it


How comfortable you are in your skin is a litmus test for how well you unravel your mysteries. And solitude is an excellent backstage pass to self-discovery. Have you ever experienced that personal “aha” moment with stillness after a brief moment with yourself or retreat somewhere? That is why many people make it a daily or weekly habit to take a solo escape into their thoughts. Research backs this, proving that solitude has enormous benefits. It’s a power move, helping you accept who you are while firing up your creative engines, boosting your mental health, and teaching you how to love yourself. Enjoying your own company can make you feel happier and less stressed and build mental toughness. Be willing to walk this path, and you’ll be glad you did. 


  1. Flex your confidence muscle


If you want to build mental strength, it’s time to show self-doubt the exit. Boost your self-confidence like you’re doing a victory dance. Celebrate those wins, flex your strengths, and pat yourself on the back for those times you nailed it. This step isn't about puffing your chest - it’s about knowing your awesomeness, standing tall against challenges, and giving a high-five to your inner superstar. The more goals you crush, the more you’ll realise you’ve got this survival thing down. When you hit those stagnant moments or doubt yourself, dive into your success reel and jog your memory about everything you’ve aced. It’s like a power-up for your confidence. 


  1. Face one thing at a time


Let’s be real; juggling a gazillion things is taming a whirlwind. Instead, why not make monotasking your go-to solution? Devote all your mojo to one task at a time. This turbocharges your focus, slashes stress, and lets you conquer each task with all your firepower. Doing this helps you tidy up the chaos in your mind, creating room for top-notch work. So, if you’re all in for supercharging your mental game, embrace monotasking! Quality trumps quantity - every single time. 


  1. Put your wellness on the priority list


Your mental and physical health are like besties; they go everywhere together. Ready to give your mental health a power-up? You don't have to become a fitness enthusiast. It’s the little things that count. Rise and shine on schedule, and start your day with a healthy routine. Sip two glasses of warm water, freshen up in the shower, pamper your skin, and power up with a hearty breakfast. Keep your body moving all day, and set aside around thirty minutes for a workout. Stroll in the great outdoors, and plan fun outdoor hangs with pals. Sweet cravings and fast food moments are cool; throw in plenty of fruits and veggies. These habits are your ticket to both mental resilience and a contented body. 


  1. Have mindful moments


Mindful moments can be your secret stress buster. Have you ever tried hitting the pause button on life’s rollercoaster? That’s what mindful moments are all about. Take a deep breath, soak in the moment, and watch stress fade away like a fading sunset. These bite-sized breaks are like mini-vacations for your brain - they amp up focus, dial down anxiety, and deliver a wave of peace in the chaos. 


  1. Emotional intelligence: your mental superpower 


Have you got your emotional game face on? Emotional intelligence is the x-factor that turbocharges your relationships, including the one with yourself. Tune into your emotions, manage them like you’re built for it, and empathise with others. Nailing this means having the keys to connection and communications that’s smoother than butter. Indeed, the body’s natural tendency to maintain mental stability and balance can impact emotional intelligence. When your physical well-being is disrupted due to factors like stress, lack of sleep, or poor nutrition, it can lead to emotional imbalances. These disruptions can influence your ability to manage emotions effectively, empathise with others, and make sound decisions. 

You can also find alternative natural ways to relax and calm your emotions. For instance, if you’re interested in CBD products, you can check brands like the Real Cannabis Club for natural products to sustain internal stability and improve your emotional and mental well-being. 


  1. Set healthier boundaries


Here’s the thing about setting those boundaries. It’s not about building walls; it’s about making your mental health a priority. Today’s tech has made connecting a breeze, but let’s be real; it has its downsides, too, especially regarding your mental space. Sure, being social is cool, but it’s crucial to set up some mental fences. You’ve got to draw a line in your head, creating a clear divide between your personal haven and the big old world out there. Limiting time, energy, and commitments shields you from burnout. And that whole ‘saying no’ thing? It’s like flexing your self-respect muscle. Boundaries are your knights in shining armour, protecting your well-being and helping you build mental strength. 


  1. Keep life in perspective, and ask for help when necessary


Life’s unpredictable, like a rollercoaster, and you’re not just a passenger but a conductor. When obstacles pop up, it’s all about perspectives. Setbacks aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones to growth. Every challenge is a lesson waiting to be learned. Keep your eye on the silver lining; adversity doesn't stand a chance. Also, being mentally strong isn't about being a lone wolf. Sometimes you need a sidekick. Reach out to pals, family, or pros - asking for help is like a badge of honour, showing you’re all in on your mental well-being journey.


So there you have it - your guide to building mental strength tougher than a titanium shield. Weaving these 10 habits into your daily life isn't just about resilience but crafting a fulfilling and stable life. Armed with these mental tools, you can take on life’s epic adventures with enthusiasm, grace, and an unbreakable spirit. x Neil.

Tuesday, 29 August 2023

Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream

skincare

The Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream is an antioxidant packed formula that provides skin-firming and intense hydration benefits when applied morning and evening. Enriched with 63% Blackberry Complex and 500ppm of Idebenone to fight free radicals, soften fine lines and brighten skin, the cream also contains five kinds of ceramides with Phytosphingosine to strengthen and support the skin's barrier function. Free from animal testing and free from the 7 ingredients you may wish to exclude from your skincare products which are: paraben, artificial fragrance and colors, alcohol, mineral oil, surfactants and allergens.

skincare

The Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream Ingredients:

Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Fruit Extract (21%), Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract (21%), Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract (21%), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Purified Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Isododecane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cetearyl Olivate, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Sorbitan Olivate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone (500ppm), Adenosine, Pentylene Glycol, Trideceth-6, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Stearic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide NS, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP.

skincare

Presented perfectly in eco-friendly packaging with soy ink, the cream is accessed by twisting off the lid from the glass jar and using the handy spatula to dip into and then apply to the skin. I was surprised by the silky-smooth texture of the cream that effortlessly glides onto the skin and over it, whilst instantly nourishing as it absorbs. The cream is ideal for those who are looking for a skin supporting product if you suffer with sensitive, dehydrated or dry skin. I would state you may find this product too heavy and nourishing if you have oily or normal skin in which case a water-based gel moisturiser might suit your skin type better. A perfect antioxidant moisturiser to defend against free radicals, restore hydration, and support the barrier function to lock in water content for a healthier complexion morning and night.

Don't forget to use my discount code click here: BLONDEMALE1 and purchase here: Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream x Neil. 

Thursday, 24 August 2023

Confidence Boost and Tricks Every Man Can Use

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Image Credit


Are you struggling with low self-confidence, or are you self-conscious about your appearance? You're not alone, and in the US, over three-quarters of the population have admitted to having low confidence or feeling conscious at one time or another.


But that doesn't mean there aren't things you can do to improve your confidence. You don't have to struggle with low confidence in life. Finding tips and tricks to help you boost your confidence can help you get in the zone, give yourself a boost, and live life in the spotlight, not hiding in the shadows.


Remove Negativity

Negativity and even hate can be barreled at you from many directions. Still, one of the common aspects in those struggling with confidence issues is the internal dialogue that tells you you're not good enough.


You must learn to quieten your voice and replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Replace the "I hate" or the "I don't like" statements with "My favorite thing about me is" or "I like the way that…." If you don't let the negative thoughts in, they can’t impact you.


The same goes for those around you. Remove yourself from toxicity chipping away at you and making you believe you are less worthy of life and attention. Tell yourself you are deserving, and you can do this to boost your confidence when needed.


Dress Well

Dressing well doesn't always mean being on trend or wearing the latest designs; it means dressing well for your state of mind. Clothes that make you feel good and comfortable can go a long way in making you feel confident. Dress in clothes you want to wear, not what you think you should be, because the more comfortable you feel in your outfit, the more confident you will feel.


Challenge Yourself

Do something every day that scares you, right? These aren't always massive actions like skydiving or public performances unless you want to, then go right ahead! It is the little actions you avoid doing because you don't feel confident enough. Start with things like lifting your head and making eye contact. Take up the metaphorical space in a room with your presence, smile at people, start a conversation with a stranger, or travel to new places alone. Whatever you avoid because you don't feel like you can do it, push yourself to face your fears and see what could happen.


Get Healthy

Eating well and exercising is known for being able to boost your mood. And when you feel good, your confidence will soar with it. Many people struggle with low confidence due to body issues, and eating a healthy, balanced diet and working out can release those happy hormones that can make you feel better about yourself, your life, and everything else. Exercise releases endorphins, and endorphins make you happy.


Get any health concerns checked out, too. If anything is bothering you physically or mentally, seek professional help and support, from getting therapy to having dental implants to replace missing teeth or looking into hair regrowth options to cover hair loss. Whatever it is about your health, body, or appearance that worries you, talk to your doctor and look into treatment options to help remove this factor and get that confidence boost you need.


Fake It

Fake it till you make it has worked for many people over the years. They even made a film about one of America's greatest con men who faked multiple careers without having any training or qualifications and got away with it for years (Catch Me If You Can 2002 with Leonardo DiCaprio playing Frank Abagnale Junior). While you don't need to go to these extremes, it can be worth copying someone you admire for their confidence and seeing how you can emulate this into your behavior to help you fake your confidence until you really feel it. The more you practice, the less you will need to fake it as you learn ways and tricks to appear confident. Pretty soon, you won't be faking anything, and you will be able to draw on this to elevate your self-confidence and self-worth.


Boosting your self-confidence won't come overnight, nor will it be easy. However, it is something that is worth sticking with to help you make positive changes and improvements in your life. Once you start putting these habits into place, they will become second nature, and you can enjoy your life without being held back because you don't feel confident enough to live how you want to. x Neil

Monday, 21 August 2023

Avon Far Away Beyond the Moon Parfum

scents
Indulge your senses and others around you, when spritzing the new intense Avon Far Away Beyond the Moon Parfum. Recently launched this year (2023) and being the new addition to Avon's popular fragrance range "Far Away" the floral and oriental scent is definitely a must-have for anyone's fragrance collection. Containing a higher concentration of fragrance oil for better projection and longer lasting wear time, far away beyond the moon contains specific notes to make anyone believe your wearing a designer fragrance rather than an affordable one. 

Presented in the typical and same style far away bottles, far away beyond the moon distinguishes itself from the collection by appearing as blue to capture the moonlit sky you see at night. Opening with the top notes wild cherry, Baies Rose and Blackberry Accord, it then progresses to the middle notes Water Fruits Accord, rich Tuberose and of course the Belle de Nuit flower - a nocturnal flower that only blooms in the moonlight. The fragrance is then supported by the base notes of velvety Milk Moon Accord, Madagascar Vanilla, and Australian sandalwood.

Spritzing on the pulse points, this impressive fragrance will draw compliments day or night and lasts a considerable long-time from the moment of application. Suitable to wear anytime of the year, Avon has provided a unique designer fragrance but at an affordable price! Available individually as a 50ml bottle, purse spray, or body lotion, you can also purchase all three as a giftset! x Neil. 

Thursday, 17 August 2023

Ordo Sonic+ Charging Travel Cases

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Bring convenience, style, and superior oral hygiene to your routine when purchasing the new Ordo Sonic+ Charging Travel Cases. I have previously blogged about the Ordo Sonic+ electric toothbrush and due to popular demand the travel cases are now available to purchase! Presented in five colours which are white, charcoal grey, mint green, pearl violet, and rose gold not only do they look eye appealing but are exceptionally practical.

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Featuring a strong magnetic closure, the travel case keeps your toothbrush safe and secure with its slim and compact design, whilst more importantly keeping it hygienic! Simply place the sonic toothbrush into the built-in charging dock and use the provided USB cable to connect it to a power adapter, computer, or power bank. The LED indicator featured on the case shows you the charging status at a glance and when it's fully charged, the indicator light will change colour. 

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Constructed from durable and high-quality materials, the case not only fits perfectly into any bag but is excellently designed to protect the toothbrush from water, dust, and any mishaps that can happen when your travelling with luggage! Priced at £20.00 and available here: Ordo Sonic+ Charging Travel Case and don't forget to use my discount code: BLONDEMALEBLOG 

Read my review of the toothbrush here: Ordo Sonic+ Electric Toothbrush x Neil.

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Maira Gall