Advice: Planning

"Plans are nothing; planning is everything."

-Dwight D. Eisenhower

Life is hectic and that's a fact that we all know.  Changes come up every minute and just when you think you have it all mapped out it's generally at those times that you come to a roadblock.  However, if you're looking to increase you productivity, get organized, or make the most of your free time planning is a great way to accomplish your goals.   So where do you start?  For those who are just beginning I'd like to share a few tips that have helped me.

My choice tools for planning. 

1.  Reserve a block of time during your day for planning.
For myself, this is usually at around 6:30 in the morning as I am having my cup of tea.  You can choose to map out your day whenever you please but I suggest doing this either the night before or first thing in the morning.

2.  Choose the tool that works best for you.
Whether it's an app on your phone or a planner just make sure to have something on hand that makes your tasks for the day visual.


3.  Take it day by day.
There's nothing wrong with planning ahead (monthly/annually) and I do especially when I know I have appointments, meetings, or deadlines to keep. However, my detailed planning is most effective when I list my 'to-dos' on a daily basis.  It helps me focus.

4. Mark things off.
When you've completed a task mark through it.  It's helpful to see what you accomplished and how much you can accomplish.

5.  Take it easy.
Planning is a tool for you to use to help you not stress you out.  Don't worry if you don't complete a task on the day you planned to just add it to the next day's list.  Planning is a guide and for the most part your guide is pliable.

As I always say change is inevitable and everything that we plan does not always come to fruition.  Planning is not to be mistaken with setting out a hardcore plan for your day.  It should be seen as more of a guide for your day.  Planning is a means to help you stay focused and accomplish your goals.  I hope this helps.


Thank you for reading. XOXO

Tasty Tales: Creamy Hot Cocoa

One of my favorite treats during the winter is a nice cup of creamy hot cocoa.  Here in South Carolina the past few days have been very cold, not as cold in some other parts of the world but to us it was freezing.  So what better to do than sit down with some friends and enjoy a nice hot cup of cocoa?

Today I bring you my recipe for creamy hot chocolate, I hope you enjoy this decadent treat.



For a special added treat I tip-toed over to one of my favorite blogs The Simply Luxurious Life for a whipped cream topping recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream
1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Make the whipping cream by mixing the cream, sugar, and vanilla until peaks form.  Refrigerate until ready to use.

Ingredients (makes 4 servings)
1/3 cup of cocoa powder
3/4 cup of white sugar
1 pinch of salt
1/3 cup of water
3 1/2 cup of milk
3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 splash of heavy whipping cream (optional)

Directions
1.  Boil water
2. Combine cocoa, sugar, and salt in a saucepan and blend in boiling water. Bring the mixture to a light boil for 1-2 minutes (don't forget to stir so that it does not burn).
3. Stir in milk and heat until hot, but don't boil.
4.  Add splash of heavy whipping cream. (optional)
5.  Remove from heat and add vanilla.
6.  Now serve and enjoy.


Thanks for reading.  XOXO

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

This past year has had it's ups and downs. I've accomplished so much and I'd like to thank everyone who provided encouragement and support. I hope that we can go into this year with a sense of renewal and a vibrant outlook on life.  I love you all and I look forward to sharing this year and all that it brings with you.

Remember that you are of infinite worth. You can't win them all and you weren't made to kill yourself trying. Struggle and hardship is universal and not for your own personal eternal ownership. We experience pain but we have to remember to feel it then let it go in order to grow.  We are stronger than we know. Let this year and every day signify a new beginning. Be you, be strong, and be happy.

For those in pursuit of their dreams be bold and unshaken!