Are you a night owl? Do you find it difficult to get up early in the morning? If so, you are not alone—millions of people around the world struggle with getting up early in the morning. However, there are ways to make the transition from night owl to morning person. Want some tips to make becoming a morning person a bit easier? Here are some that will have you rising with the sun and starting your day off on the right foot.

Gradually start going to bed earlier

Becoming a morning person doesn’t happen overnight; it requires dedication and commitment. Gradually transitioning to an earlier bedtime is the most sensible approach if you’re trying to get used to getting up early and making the most of your mornings. Eventually, you will find the bedtime that provides you with enough sleep and the opportunity to get up refreshed each morning.

Create a bedtime routine

If you’re looking to become a morning person but find yourself struggling to get out of bed, it might be time to create a bedtime routine. Setting and sticking to a regular bedtime can help establish healthy sleeping habits, allowing you to wake up feeling well-rested and energized. Establishing a regular routine leading up to sleep can help signal your body that it’s time for rest. Aim for activities like turning off electronics, drinking herbal tea, stretching, reading, or journaling – whatever allows your mind and body time to relax and prepare for restful sleep. With increased energy in the morning from better sleep, you’ll be setting yourself up for greater success with all the extra hours of productivity!

Keep a consistent sleep schedule

It’s well known that having a consistent sleep schedule is essential for your overall health and well-being. However, it can be challenging to make sure you’re going to bed and waking up at the same time every day due to busy schedules, varying levels of fatigue, or external distractions. But this consistency is vitally important: breaking from a regular schedule can adversely affect your daily energy levels, cognition, and even emotions. To help enforce a proper sleep schedule, try going to sleep each night and waking up each morning around the same time, even on weekends – this will give your body more of an opportunity to establish regular sleeping patterns.

Create a morning routine

Creating a morning routine helps to jump-start your day and make it run smoother. A well-crafted routine should include anything that you can do on a regular basis and in some sort of order, like drinking a cup of coffee, exercising, setting goals for the day, or listening to calming music. Identify what gets you motivated each morning and add that into your daily plan. Finding balance is key; allow yourself enough time to easily hit all of your markers without feeling frazzled or rushed. Preparing ahead can give you peace of mind and be satisfying when achieved. 

Shift your mindset

Harnessing the power of becoming a morning person could be a game changer in your life. Waking up early can help you find more time in the day to complete tasks, focus on goals and fill your days with activities that bring joy. When you change your attitude about mornings and make waking up earlier an intentional habit, taking advantage of nature’s expansive possibilities becomes an exciting experience. Wake up with a smile, push through the sleepiness, and get yourself ready to face each day with ambition and enthusiasm. 

If you’re not a morning person, you can take steps to change that. By slowly adjusting your sleep schedule and making some changes to your morning routine, you can train your body to be a morning person. Give it a try – you may be surprised at how easy it is to become a morning person!

Do you have little ones running around the house and keeping you from getting your work done? It can be tough to try and balance work with kids at home. But it is not impossible! Here are ten tips for working from home with kids that will help make things a bit easier for you.

1. Establish a daily routine. Kids thrive on having a schedule to follow, which can help you get into your workday with fewer distractions. Set up designated work times for yourself and also designate some downtime for playtime with the kids as well.
2. Create a dedicated workspace. Make sure that you have an area in your home where you can set up shop and be productive without interruption. It is essential that kids understand that this is your space to focus on work so they know not to disturb you when they see you there.
3. Let your kids join in! If your kids are old enough to understand what it means for Mommy or Daddy to work from home, why not let them help you? If they are too young, have them do a craft or activity in the same room as you so that you can still be there together.
4. Make time for breaks. Having little ones at home can be exhausting, and your body needs to rest during the day. You don’t have to work all day long – take regular breaks throughout the day where you step away from your computer and spend some quality time with your kids.
5. Get creative with childcare solutions. It doesn’t always work to have mom or dad sitting in their office while the kids run around unsupervised. See if you can find a local caregiver who can come into your home for a few hours a day, or if there is a program for your kids to participate in.
6. Utilize technology. With today’s technologies, you can keep an eye on the kids while they are playing and still be productive. From video chat platforms like Skype and Zoom, to monitoring applications like Kidmode, you can check in with them while continuing to work from home.
7. Keep it structured and organized. Have a plan of attack every morning – know what tasks need to be done that day and how long each task will take so that you stay on track. This also allows you to set aside time in the afternoon for activities with the kids before getting back into your work routine again later on in the day.
8. Outsource when you can. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed! See if there are any tasks that can be delegated or outsourced, such as grocery shopping or meal prepping, so that you can focus on getting your work done.
9. Set clear boundaries with clients and colleagues. Let your clients and colleagues know in advance what days/times you will be available for meetings and conference calls so that there is no confusion about availability. This way, you don’t have to worry about taking important calls while the kids are running around, creating a ruckus in the background!
10. Find ways to stay motivated. Working from home with kids can be difficult, and there will be days when you feel like giving up. But it is important to stay positive, so find ways to keep yourself motivated and push through the tough times! Listen to music that lifts your spirits, or take a break for a few minutes to do some deep breathing exercises.

These ten tips will help you make working from home with kids a bit easier and more manageable. And while it won’t always be easy, remember that you can make it work if you remain organized and focused on your goals! 

There’s nothing like a good laugh to make you feel better, and these books are sure to provide plenty of laughs. From hilarious stories about family life to side-splitting accounts of moving across the ocean, these books will have you laughing out loud. So if you’re in the mood for some laughs, check out one of these books!

Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

A recent transplant to Paris, humorist David Sedaris, bestselling author of “Naked”, presents a collection of his strongest work yet, including the title story about his hilarious attempt to learn French.

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? By Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling has lived many lives: the obedient child of immigrant professionals, a timid chubster afraid of her own bike, a Ben Affleck–impersonating Off-Broadway performer and playwright, and, finally, a comedy writer and actress prone to starting fights with her friends and coworkers with the sentence “Can I just say one last thing about this, and then I swear I’ll shut up about it?”  

Perhaps you want to know what Mindy thinks makes a great best friend (someone who will fill your prescription in the middle of the night), or what makes a great guy (one who is aware of all elderly people in any room at any time and acts accordingly), or what is the perfect amount of fame (so famous you can never get convicted of murder in a court of law), or how to maintain a trim figure (you will not find that information in these pages). If so, you’ve come to the right book, mostly!

With several conveniently placed stopping points for you to run errands and make phone calls, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? proves that Mindy Kaling really is just a Girl Next Door—not so much literally anywhere in the continental United States, but definitely if you live in India or Sri Lanka.

We Are Never Meeting in Real Life: Essay by Samantha Irby

Whether Samantha Irby is talking about how her difficult childhood has led to a problem in making “adult” budgets; explaining why she should be the new Bachelorette (she’s “35-ish, but could easily pass for 60-something”); detailing a disastrous pilgrimage-slash-romantic-vacation to Nashville to scatter her estranged father’s ashes; sharing awkward sexual encounters; or dispensing advice on how to navigate friendships with former drinking buddies who are now suburban moms (hang in there for the Costco loot!); she’s as deft at poking fun at the ghosts of her past self as she is at capturing powerful emotional truths.

Everything I Know About Love: A Memoir by Dolly Alderton

When it comes to the trials and triumphs of becoming an adult, journalist and former Sunday Times columnist Dolly Alderton has seen and tried it all. In her memoir, she vividly recounts falling in love, finding a job, getting drunk, getting dumped, realizing that Ivan from the corner shop might just be the only reliable man in her life, and that absolutely no one can ever compare to her best girlfriends. Everything I Know About Love is about bad dates, good friends and—above all else— realizing that you are enough.

Glittering with wit and insight, heart and humor, Dolly Alderton’s unforgettable debut weaves together personal stories, satirical observations, a series of lists, recipes, and other vignettes that will strike a chord of recognition with women of every age—making you want to pick up the phone and tell your best friends all about it. Like Bridget Jones’ Diary but all true, Everything I Know About Love is about the struggles of early adulthood in all its terrifying and hopeful uncertainty.

Sometimes you just need a good laugh. These books will have you in stitches and are sure to help chase away the blues. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a friend or want something to cheer you up, any of these titles would be a great choice. 

***All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon

Baking soda is one of the most versatile substances on Earth. You can use it for baking, cleaning, and a million other things. But did you know that you can also use it for beauty treatments, health remedies, and more? Take a look at some of the most surprising uses for baking soda that you may not know. 

For teeth whitening 

Mix together baking soda and water until it forms a paste. Then rub this mixture on your teeth for about two minutes and rinse off with warm water. The results will not only be whiter teeth but also fresher breath!

As a deodorant 

Mix equal parts of cornstarch or arrowroot powder and baking soda in order to create your own natural deodorant.

For bug bites

Mix together a thick paste of baking soda and water. Then apply this mixture to your bug bite and allow it to dry for about 15 minutes. The itching should go away instantly.

As a shaving cream

Simply mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create your own razor-friendly shaving cream. This mixture will exfoliate the skin as you shave, leaving behind smooth and soft skin for days to come.

As a face mask

Mix one tablespoon of yogurt with three tablespoons of baking soda until it forms a thick paste. Then apply this mixture to your face and allow it to dry completely before washing it off. This face mask will help exfoliate your pores, removing any built-up oils and dirt while leaving you with a glowing complexion.

As a foot soak

To soothe tired or aching feet, fill up your bathtub with warm water and add three tablespoons of baking soda to the water. Add some soothing scented essential oils if you like, then sit back and relax as the baking soda works its magic on your feet!

Deodorize your shoes

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda into the inside of your smelly shoes and allow them to sit for about 30 minutes. The baking soda will absorb the odors, leaving you with fresh-smelling kicks.

As a bath bomb

Mix together 1 cup baking soda, ¼ cup Epsom salts, ½ cup corn starch/arrowroot powder, and 10-15 drops of essential oils until it forms a thick paste. Then form this mixture into balls or any other desired shape and set aside to dry completely. Once dried, these homemade bath bombs can be dropped into your bathtub for an amazing aromatherapy experience!

To whiten your laundry

Add one cup of baking soda to your next load of laundry for whiter, brighter-looking clothes. Baking soda is great for removing stains and brightening whites without using any harsh chemicals that may damage your clothes or harm the environment.

As a cleaning paste

Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create an all-purpose cleaning paste that will easily remove dirt and grime from counters, floors, windows, appliances, kitchen tools – really anything you can think of! The baking soda helps get rid of any nasty smells, in addition to leaving surfaces clean and shiny. The best part is it’s completely natural and safe for use around children and pets!

There are so many amazing uses for baking soda that you’ll never run out of reasons to stock up on this multi-purpose substance. From beauty treatments to health remedies, the opportunities are endless with this powerful powder from the kitchen pantry. So why not take advantage of all its wonderful benefits? You’ll be glad you did!

Are you looking to further your education online but don’t know where to start? You’re in luck! There are a ton of great sites that offer online learning for adults. Whether you want to study for a new career or simply learn more about the world, there’s something out there for everyone. Check out these top sites for online learning and get started on your future today!

Coursera

Coursera is an online education platform that offers courses from top universities and colleges around the world. Founded in 2012, Coursera has grown rapidly, now offering over 3,000 courses from 140 institutions. Courses are typically 4-10 weeks long and cover a wide range of subjects, from business to computer science to history. Students can earn a certificate or share their course progress with their LinkedIn profile. In addition to traditional courses, Coursera also offers Specializations, which are multi-course programs that focus on a particular subject area. For example, the Business Foundations Specialization includes courses on accounting, finance, and marketing. Coursera is a convenient and affordable way to gain skills and knowledge from some of the best schools in the world.

Udemy

With over 200,000 courses available, Udemy has something for everyone. And best of all, many of the courses are free! Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or hobby, or you’re trying to improve your career prospects, Udemy is a great resource. The courses are taught by expert instructors, and you can learn at your own pace. Plus, you can access the courses from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. 

MasterClass

MasterClass offers classes taught by world-renowned instructors. Classes are available in a variety of disciplines, including cooking, writing, and business. With MasterClass, you can learn from the best of the best, without ever having to leave your home. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, MasterClass has something to offer everyone. And what makes MasterClass so much fun is that they have a great selection of courses taught by celebrities. You might find yourself learning from Gordon Ramsey or John Legend or even Richard Branson.

Udacity

Founded in 2012 by two Stanford computer science professors, Udacity was one of the first online educational platforms to offer courses that are both accredited and self-paced. Today, Udacity has over 10 million students from all over the world and offers courses in over 35 different subjects. In addition to its online courses, Udacity also offers a number of nanodegrees, which are specialized programs that allow students to gain experience in specific subject areas. For example, Udacity’s nanodegrees in artificial intelligence and self-driving cars have helped students land jobs at some of the world’s top tech companies. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills for your current job or change careers altogether, Udacity can help you reach your goals.

Skillshare

Skillshare is an online learning community for creators. With more than 18,000 classes taught by industry experts, if you have a creative side – then Skillshare is one you should check out. Classes on Skillshare cover a range of creative topics, including design, illustration, photography, video, web development, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced creator, you can always learn something new here. You can learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Plus, with Premium Membership, you get unlimited access to all of the classes on Skillshare.

Online learning is a great way for adults to gain new skills or improve existing ones. With so many sites offering free or low-cost courses, there’s no excuse not to learn something new today. What are you waiting for? Get started with one of the great online learning resources.

There is something about true crime novels that just draws us in and compels us to keep reading until the very end. Maybe it’s the fact that you saw the story on the news or the satisfaction of finally getting closure after years of wondering. Whatever it is, these books are addictive and definitely worth a read. Here are a few page-turners that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow along.

The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule

A #1 New York Times Best Seller, Ann Rule’s The Stranger Beside Me gives us a unique perspective into the hidden world of Ted Bundy. Rule gives a chilling and intimate description of her time at a crisis hotline alongside her co-worker, the then charming, sensitive and trustworthy Ted Bundy, and the devastating realization that he was a brutal killer hiding in plain sight. After multiple arrests and an escape from jail, Bundy would later confess to the murders of at least thirty-six women and soon after was executed for three cases. Rule, a certified instructor for police training seminars, prosecutors and forensic science organizations, delves into how this savage killer — a man she thought she knew — could have fooled so many, including a professional like herself.

Furious Hours: Murder, Fraud, and the Last Trial of Harper Lee by Casey Cep

Reverend Willie Maxwell was a rural preacher accused of murdering five of his family members, but with the help of a savvy lawyer, he escaped justice for years until a relative assassinated him at the funeral of his last victim. Despite hundreds of witnesses, Maxwell’s murderer was acquitted—thanks to the same attorney who had previously defended the reverend himself. Sitting in the audience during the vigilante’s trial was Harper Lee, who spent a year in town reporting on the Maxwell case and many more trying to finish the book she called The Reverend.

Cep brings this remarkable story to life, from the horrifying murders to the courtroom drama to the racial politics of the Deep South, while offering a deeply moving portrait of one of our most revered writers.

Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou

In 2014, Theranos founder and CEO Elizabeth Holmes was widely seen as the next Steve Jobs: a brilliant Stanford dropout whose startup “unicorn” promised to revolutionize the medical industry with its breakthrough device, which performed the whole range of laboratory tests from a single drop of blood. Backed by investors such as Larry Ellison and Tim Draper, Theranos sold shares in a fundraising round that valued the company at more than $9 billion, putting Holmes’s worth at an estimated $4.5 billion. There was just one problem: The technology didn’t work. Erroneous results put patients in danger, leading to misdiagnoses and unnecessary treatments. All the while, Holmes and her partner, Sunny Balwani, worked to silence anyone who voiced misgivings—from journalists to their own employees.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt

Shots rang out in Savannah’s grandest mansion in the misty,early morning hours of May 2, 1981. Was it murder or self-defense? For nearly a decade, the shooting and its aftermath reverberated throughout this hauntingly beautiful city of moss-hung oaks and shaded squares. John Berendt’s sharply observed, suspenseful, and witty narrative reads like a thoroughly engrossing novel, and yet it is a work of nonfiction. Berendt skillfully interweaves a hugely entertaining first-person account of life in this isolated remnant of the Old South with the unpredictable twists and turns of a landmark murder case.

It is a spellbinding story peopled by a gallery of remarkable characters: the well-bred society ladies of the Married Woman’s Card Club; the turbulent young redneck gigolo; the hapless recluse who owns a bottle of poison so powerful it could kill every man, woman, and child in Savannah; the aging and profane Southern belle who is the “soul of pampered self-absorption”; the uproariously funny black drag queen; the acerbic and arrogant antiques dealer; the sweet-talking, piano-playing con artist; young blacks dancing the minuet at the black debutante ball; and Minerva, the voodoo priestess who works her magic in the graveyard at midnight. These and other Savannahians act as a Greek chorus, with Berendt revealing the alliances, hostilities, and intrigues that thrive in a town where everyone knows everyone else.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is a sublime and seductive reading experience. Brilliantly conceived and masterfully written, this enormously engaging portrait of a most beguiling Southern city has become a modern classic.

So there you have it! These stories are so captivating and well written, you won’t be able to put them down. If you’re looking for a true crime book to keep you entertained, look no further than this list.

***All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon

A care package is a great way to show your loved ones that you’re thinking about them, no matter how far away they might be. And with a little bit of creativity, you can make sure that your care package is one that they’ll never forget. Here are some ideas to get you started.

For the foodie in your life

A gourmet care package filled with delicious treats is sure to please any food lover. Think things like artisanal cheeses, hand-crafted chocolates, and small-batch jams. If you really want to go above and beyond, include a gift certificate to a local restaurant or food truck.

For the fashionista

Put together a care package full of fashionable finds from your favorite online boutique. You could also include a handwritten note letting them know about new trends that you think they would love. Or, if you’re feeling extra generous, include a gift card to their favorite store.

For the gamer

Gamers can be tough to shop for, but a carefully curated care package full of their favorite gaming goodies is sure to hit the spot. From new games and controllers to snacks and energy drinks, there’s something for everyone. Just be sure to do your research before you start shopping, so you don’t end up getting them something they already have!

For the beauty junkie

Most women love anything related to beauty and pampering, so put together a care package full of all things fabulous! Include items like nail polish, face masks, body scrubs, and perfume samples. You could even throw in a luxurious bath bomb or two for good measure. Just make sure that everything is individually wrapped, so it doesn’t get damaged in transit.

For the homebody

If your loved one is more of a homebody than a social butterfly, put together a care package full of cozy items that will make them feel right at home. Scented candles, fluffy blankets, cozy socks, and gourmet tea or coffee are all great ideas. You could even include a book or two that you think they would enjoy.

For the jet-setter

If your loved one is always on the go, put together a care package full of travel-sized essentials that will help them out when they’re on the road. Include items like mini toiletries, first aid supplies, snacks, and charging cords. You could even add in a cute travel journal and pen so they can document their adventures. 

For the stressed out

A care package designed to help someone relax and unwind is always appreciated. Include items like aromatherapy candles, bath bombs, a cozy blanket, and a playlist of calming music.

For the fitness enthusiast

If you have a loved one who is into fitness, put together a care package with their favorite workout gear, healthy snacks, and a motivational book or film.

For the crafty one

A crafting kit complete with fabrics, yarns, needles, and patterns is perfect for anyone who loves to be creative. Add in a heartfelt note wishing them luck on their project.

For the pet lover

If you know someone who can’t stand being away from their furry friend, send them a care package containing things like treats, toys, and photos of their pet back home. They’ll appreciate your thoughtfulness!

No matter who you are sending a care package to, there are endless possibilities for what you can include. The most important thing is to put some thought into it and choose items that you know they will appreciate and use. A care package is a great way to show your loved ones how much you care about them – so get creative and have fun!

There are probably a few places in your home that you forget to clean on a regular basis. This is understandable, as there are so many areas in a house that need attention! But if you want to keep your home in good condition, it’s important to make sure you don’t neglect these forgotten spaces. Here are some of the most common places people forget to clean and a few ideas for making cleaning them easier!

Refrigerator

One of the places people often forget to clean is behind the refrigerator. This area can collect a lot of dust and dirt, so it’s essential to give it a good cleaning every few months. To make this task easier, try moving the fridge out from its normal spot and then vacuum or sweep behind it. You may also want to wipe down the back of the fridge with a damp cloth to remove any build-up that has occurred.

Under your bed

Another place that is often forgotten about is under the bed. This area can be difficult to clean because it’s hard to reach, and there is often a lot of dust that has accumulated over time. To make cleaning under the bed more manageable, try using a handheld vacuum or broom with an extendable handle. This will help you reach all the nooks and crannies where dust has settled. You may also want to put a dust cover on your mattress to help keep your bed clean.

Walls and baseboards

Walls and baseboards can easily be overlooked, too. However, these areas can collect a lot of dust and dirt. To clean them, simply use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe them down. You may want to do this task more often if you have pets or children in the home, as they can track in a lot of dirt and grime.

Ceiling fans

Ceiling fan blades are another area that people tend to forget about when cleaning their homes. These blades can become covered in dust and cobwebs over time, so it’s important to give them a good cleaning every few months. The easiest way to do this is to use an old pillowcase. Slip the pillowcase over each blade and then run your hand along it to remove the dust.

Closet floors

When was the last time you cleaned your closet floors? Closets are often full of dirt, dust, and cobwebs. To clean them, first, remove everything from the floor. Then vacuum or sweep the floor to remove any debris that has accumulated. You may also want to wipe down the walls and baseboards in your closet to remove any build-up that has occurred.

Trash cans

How about your trash cans? To clean them, remove the liner (if there is one) and then spray the inside of the trash can with a disinfectant. You may also want to scrub the outside of the trash can with a brush to remove any spilled food or dirt that’s there.

Dishwasher

Your dishwasher may need to be cleaned, too. Over time, dishwashers can collect food particles and grease. This can lead to a foul smell and decreased performance. To clean your dishwasher, run it on the hottest setting with no dishes inside. You may also want to add a cup of vinegar to the cycle to help remove any build-up that has occurred.

Windows

Finally, don’t forget to clean your windows. To clean your windows, start by using a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Wipe down the entire surface of the window, including the frame and sill. Then, use a microfiber cloth or newspaper to dry the surface and remove any streaks.

As you can see, there are a lot of places in your home that you may forget to clean. However, by taking the time to clean these areas, you can help keep your home in top condition. What are some of the places you tend to forget to clean?

There are times in everyone’s life when they need a little inspiration. Maybe you’re facing a difficult situation, or you’re feeling stuck in a rut. Whatever the case may be, there’s nothing like a good book to give you the boost you need. Here are four books that are sure to inspire you.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo

Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery, The Alchemist has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world and transforming the lives of countless readers across generations.

Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago’s journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, most importantly, to follow our dream

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale

The Power of Positive Thinking is a phenomenal bestseller that has inspired millions of people across the world. First published in 1952, the book remains equally relevant today and holds immense power to motivate all readers. Vincent Peale elucidates how each of us harbors the ability to fulfill our dreams, develop a positive attitude and attain a peaceful mind. With inspiring examples and anecdotes, the book successfully delivers stimulating ideas and practical techniques to adopt optimism and live a victorious life. It enlists various methods to achieve lasting happiness and success. Written in an accessible language, this book will enable a reader to learn the aspects of kindness, control, personal and professional relationships, anxiety, beliefs and expectations. It will surely leave a reader energized and full of faith.

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl’s memoir has riveted generations of readers with its descriptions of life in Nazi death camps and its lessons for spiritual survival. Between 1942 and 1945 Frankl labored in four different camps, including Auschwitz, while his parents, brother, and pregnant wife perished. Based on his own experience and the experiences of others he treated later in his practice, Frankl argues that we cannot avoid suffering but we can choose how to cope with it, find meaning in it, and move forward with renewed purpose. Frankl’s theory-known as logotherapy, from the Greek word logos (“meaning”) – holds that our primary drive in life is not pleasure, as Freud maintained, but the discovery and pursuit of what we personally find meaningful.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

The 7 Habits have become famous and are integrated into everyday thinking by millions and millions of people. Why? Because they work!

With Sean Covey’s added takeaways on how the habits can be used in our modern age, the wisdom of the 7 Habits will be refreshed for a new generation of leaders.

They include:

Habit 1: Be Proactive

Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind

Habit 3: Put First Things First

Habit 4: Think Win/Win

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Habit 6: Synergize

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw

This beloved classic presents a principle-centered approach for solving both personal and professional problems. With penetrating insights and practical anecdotes, Stephen R. Covey reveals a step-by-step pathway for living with fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity—principles that give us the security to adapt to change and the wisdom and power to take advantage of the opportunities that change creates.

These are just a few books that can provide you with plenty of inspiration! Which have you read? Which are going on your reading list?

***All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon

Starting a new job is always a challenge. You have to get used to a new environment, meet new people, and learn new procedures. It can be difficult to know how to fit in at a new job, especially if you are shy or introverted. But don’t worry! There are some things you can do to make the transition easier and here are a few tips for succeeding in your first weeks on the job.

Dress According to the Company Dress Code

One of the easiest ways to fit in at a new job is to dress according to the company dress code. This shows that you are willing to conform to the company’s standards and that you take the job seriously. Of course, you don’t want to go overboard and look like you are trying too hard. Just make sure you look neat, clean, and professional.

Familiarize Yourself with Company Policies

One of the first things you should do when you start a new job is to familiarize yourself with the company’s policies. This shows that you are serious about the job and that you are willing to follow the rules. It will also make it easier for you to fit in because you will know what is expected of you.

Arrive Early and Stay Late 

Another way to show your dedication to your new job is by arriving early and staying late. This sends the message that you are eager to work and that you are not afraid of putting in some extra hours. Of course, don’t overdo it! 

Be Friendly and Helpful 

Want to make new friends at work? One of the best ways is to be friendly and helpful. Offer to help your co-workers with their work, join in on after-work activities, and just generally be a nice person. People will appreciate your willingness to help and you will soon find yourself fitting in nicely.

Have Lunch With Your Team

A great way to get to know your co-workers and build relationships is to have lunch with them. Offer to buy them lunch or go out for coffee. This will give you a chance to chat and get to know each other better.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

If you are unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask questions. This shows that you are willing to learn and that you are not afraid of admitting when you don’t know something. A few well-placed questions will show that you are interested in doing things the right way.

Be Open to Feedback

When you first start a new job, your boss will probably be giving you a lot of feedback. Try to be open to this feedback and use it to improve your performance. Don’t be defensive about feedback. Instead learn from it!

Try New Things

Want to show that you’re committed to your new job? Then be ready to try new things!. Volunteer for new assignments, offer to help with special projects, and just generally be willing to step out of your comfort zone. This shows that you are flexible and adaptable and that you are not afraid of change.

These are just a few tips for fitting in at a new job. By following these tips, you will soon find yourself feeling right at home in your new workplace. Most importantly, don’t forget to be yourself! Relax and let your true personality shine through and you will do just fine.