Bliss & Bloom Blog

Category: Self Improvement

  • Embracing a Motivation and Self-Improvement Mindset: Two Months to the New Year, Time to Refocus

    As we find ourselves two months shy of the new year, it’s the perfect time to pause and ask: Are you closer to achieving the visions you set at the start of this year, or does it feel like you’re further away from them? Whether you’re on track or not, there’s still time to refocus, recommit, and create healthier discipline habits that will lead you to a more fulfilling life. The key lies in controlling your mindset and actions—not waiting for the motivation to hit but doing what needs to be done, even when you don’t feel like it. This mindset shift can be the turning point that allows you to close out the year strong and set yourself up for an incredible start to the next one.

    Reflecting on the Year So Far

    Before diving into how you can strengthen your discipline and mindset, let’s take a moment to reflect. At the beginning of this year, you likely set goals or at least had some idea of how you wanted 2024 to unfold. Maybe you envisioned better health, a stronger career, or improved relationships. Now, with only two months left, ask yourself: Am I closer to where I want to be, or have I drifted away from those initial goals?

    It’s important to approach this reflection with honesty, but also with compassion. Life happens, and the unexpected can throw us off course. The objective here isn’t to feel guilty or beat yourself up over any perceived shortcomings; it’s about gaining clarity so that you can take meaningful steps forward. Sometimes, just recognizing that you’re further away than you’d like to be is the first step to finding your way back on track.

    Why Discipline Matters More Than Motivation

    One of the biggest misconceptions about self-improvement is that motivation will always be there when you need it. We’ve all experienced the thrill of starting something new, powered by the initial excitement and energy that comes with fresh goals. But what happens when that excitement fades? What happens on the days when you just don’t feel like putting in the effort? That’s where discipline comes in.

    Motivation is fleeting, but discipline—doing what needs to be done regardless of how you feel in the moment—will carry you through the tough times. Creating new and healthier discipline habits is the foundation of long-term success and personal growth.

    Here’s a simple truth: if you only rely on motivation, you’ll likely stop when things get tough. But if you build discipline, you’ll push through those difficult moments and come out stronger on the other side. Discipline is what turns your desires into reality, even when you’re tired, stressed, or tempted to give up.

    A New Approach to Building Healthy Habits

    To build discipline and create new habits that stick, it’s important to approach the process with intention and a realistic mindset. You don’t need to overhaul your entire life in one day, but you can start making small changes that lead to significant improvements over time. Here are some steps to help you get started:

    1. Break Down Your Goals

    It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by big, long-term goals. The trick is to break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to improve your physical health, start by committing to a 10-minute walk each day. Once that becomes a habit, gradually build on it. The key is to focus on consistent, small efforts that compound over time.

    By breaking down your goals, you not only make them more achievable, but you also create a sense of progress and accomplishment along the way. This boosts your confidence and reinforces your commitment.

    2. Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome

    While it’s important to keep your end goal in mind, it’s even more important to fall in love with the process. This means focusing on the daily habits and routines that will eventually get you to where you want to be. Instead of stressing about how far you are from your goal, celebrate the small victories that come with showing up and putting in the work.

    For instance, if you’re working on personal growth through journaling or mindfulness, value the moments of clarity or peace that come from doing these practices, rather than constantly measuring how “enlightened” you feel. This shift in perspective helps you stay engaged and motivated in the long run.

    3. Remove the ‘All or Nothing’ Mindset

    One of the biggest barriers to self-improvement is the belief that if we can’t do something perfectly, we shouldn’t bother doing it at all. This ‘all or nothing’ mindset leads to discouragement and, often, giving up. Instead, embrace progress over perfection. Even if you can’t do a full workout, meditate for an hour, or achieve your ideal productivity every day, doing something is better than doing nothing.

    This is especially important as we approach the end of the year. You don’t have to wait for a clean slate or January 1st to begin making changes. Start today with whatever effort you can muster, and remember that consistency beats intensity every time.

    4. Control Your Mind, Not Just Your Actions

    When it comes to self-improvement, mindset is everything. Developing a growth-oriented mindset means recognizing that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to learn and grow. This shift in thinking can be incredibly powerful when it comes to staying disciplined.

    Instead of telling yourself, “I messed up, so there’s no point in continuing,” reframe it to, “This setback is teaching me something valuable, and I’m going to keep going.” By controlling your mind and focusing on positive, constructive thoughts, you’re able to maintain momentum, even in the face of challenges.

    Remember, you have control over your actions and your reactions. You may not be able to control external circumstances, but you can always choose how you respond to them. This mental discipline is what allows you to keep going when things get tough.

    5. Commit to Consistent Reflection

    To ensure that you’re staying on track, it’s important to build regular reflection into your routine. Take time each week to assess what’s working and what’s not, and adjust your approach as needed. This process of consistent self-reflection helps you stay mindful of your progress, keeps you accountable, and allows you to make course corrections when necessary.

    You can do this through journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or simply setting aside a few quiet moments to check in with yourself. The goal is to stay aware of your habits, mindset, and goals so that you’re constantly moving forward, even if it’s at a slower pace than you originally planned.

    Overcoming Common Obstacles to Self-Improvement

    Of course, creating a self-improvement mindset and building discipline is easier said than done. There will be obstacles along the way, but being prepared for them can help you push through. Here are a few common challenges and how to overcome them:

    1. Lack of Time

    Many of us feel like we’re too busy to commit to personal growth. But the reality is, we make time for what’s important to us. If self-improvement is a priority, carve out time for it, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day to start. It’s not about how much time you have, but how you use the time available to you.

    2. Fear of Failure

    The fear of failure can be paralyzing. It can make you second-guess yourself and stop you from taking action. Remember, failure is a natural part of the growth process. Every successful person has failed numerous times before achieving their goals. The important thing is to learn from each failure and keep moving forward.

    3. Overwhelm

    Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of self-improvement is common, especially if you’re trying to make big changes all at once. To combat this, focus on just one habit or goal at a time. Once you’ve established that habit, move on to the next. By tackling one thing at a time, you’ll avoid burnout and make sustainable progress.

    Finishing the Year Strong

    Now that you’ve reflected on where you are in your journey, it’s time to finish the year strong. You still have two months to make meaningful changes and build momentum that will carry you into the new year. Whether it’s improving your health, strengthening your relationships, or advancing in your career, take the next two months to focus on what matters most to you.

    Here’s how you can make the most of these final weeks:

    • Set 1–3 key priorities: Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, identify the top 1–3 areas of your life you want to focus on before the year ends.

    • Create a plan: Break your goals into smaller, actionable steps. Remember, consistency is key, and small changes can lead to big results over time.

    • Stay accountable: Find a friend, mentor, or accountability partner who can check in with you and help you stay on track.

    • Celebrate your progress: Don’t forget to acknowledge how far you’ve come, even if it’s not exactly where you thought you’d be. Celebrate the small wins along the way.

    Looking Ahead

    As we approach the new year, it’s natural to start thinking about new beginnings and fresh goals. But remember, you don’t have to wait until January 1st to start making changes. The best time to start is now. By building discipline, controlling your mindset, and taking action—even when you don’t feel like it—you can end the year on a high note and set yourself up for even greater success in 2025.

    So, where are you in your journey? Are you closer to your early year visions or further away? Either way, it’s not too late to turn things around. You have the power to create the life you want, starting today.

  • Feeling Lost, Rushed, and Disappointed: Navigating Life’s Uncertainties and Finding New Paths

    Lately, I’ve been feeling lost. Not in a dramatic, fall-off-the-cliff kind of way, but more like standing at a crossroads, not sure which direction to take next. There’s a sense of being rushed, like life is moving too fast, yet I’m not getting anywhere I want to be. And I’ve felt disappointed too — disappointed in where I am, what I’ve accomplished, and how distant some of my dreams seem.

    But here’s the thing: I know I’m not alone. Many of us feel this way at one point or another. The sense of burnout, exhaustion, and the overwhelming pressure to achieve can make us wonder if we’re on the right path at all. With so many ways to make an income, so many lifestyles to choose from, how do we decide? How do we even begin to figure out what’s meant for us?

    The Overwhelm of Choices

    In today’s world, there are endless ways to earn a living, and that’s both a blessing and a curse. There’s the traditional 9-to-5 job, freelancing, starting your own business, content creation, investments, and side hustles. The options are limitless. And with so many choices, it can feel paralyzing to make a decision. How do you know which one is the right one for you? How do you stop second-guessing yourself once you’ve made a choice?

    This is where I’ve found myself recently. I look around, and it feels like everyone is doing something different. Some are making huge strides, others seem content in their stability, and here I am, wondering how I fit into it all. It’s easy to feel stuck when it seems like everyone else is figuring out their paths while you’re still unsure of yours.

    Burnout: The Silent Struggle

    I’ve realized that I’m experiencing burnout — not just physical exhaustion but emotional and mental fatigue too. It creeps up on you slowly. At first, it’s just a tired feeling that you shrug off. You tell yourself, “I just need a good night’s sleep, and I’ll be fine.” But then, one day, you wake up, and even the things that used to bring you joy feel like a burden.

    For me, burnout has been sneaky. It made me question my passions, my goals, and even my sense of self. I started to wonder, “Am I even on the right track?” I’ve always been a go-getter, someone with big dreams, and for so long, I imagined myself in a certain position — with a house, a family, and a career that made me feel proud. But lately, those visions feel distant. They don’t inspire me in the way they used to. Instead, I find myself thinking about how much more there is to life, how many more goals I have yet to achieve, and how I want more than just settling.

    Seeing Life Through a New Lens

    I’m starting to see life differently. The traditional 9-to-5 path that so many of us were raised to follow no longer feels like the only option — or even the best option. There’s more to life than just working to pay bills and putting dreams on hold for “someday.” I’m beginning to realize that we’re allowed to redefine success, and it doesn’t have to look like the neat, conventional picture we once imagined.

    For me, the idea of sticking to one income stream, one career, or one path feels limiting. We live in a world where multiple streams of income are not only possible but often necessary for financial security and freedom. The gig economy, the rise of entrepreneurship, and the digital space have opened up so many avenues. It’s both exciting and terrifying at the same time.

    The Belief in What’s Meant for You

    Despite the uncertainty I’ve been feeling, there’s one thing I know for sure: what is meant for you will always be yours. I’ve held onto this belief for years, and it has helped me through some of the most challenging times. There’s a sense of peace in knowing that the universe has a plan, even if it’s not always clear in the moment.

    But just because I believe this doesn’t mean I don’t have moments of doubt. It’s human nature to want to control everything, to have a clear roadmap that guarantees success. However, life doesn’t work that way. There’s an ebb and flow, a series of twists and turns that often take us by surprise. Sometimes, we’re meant to follow the winding path rather than the straight and narrow one.

    Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the goals I set for myself years ago. Back then, I thought I had it all figured out. I had this vision of where I would be by now — the house, the family, the perfect job. But life had other plans, and those dreams didn’t unfold the way I thought they would. And you know what? That’s okay. I’m learning that it’s okay for things to take longer than expected, and it’s okay to pivot when the path you’re on no longer feels right.

    Acknowledging the Need for Change

    The first step in moving forward is acknowledging where you are. For me, that meant admitting that I wasn’t happy with my current situation. I had to be honest with myself about the burnout, the feelings of being lost, and the disappointment. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.

    We live in a society that glorifies hustle culture — the idea that we should always be grinding, always pushing toward the next big thing. But that mindset is exhausting. It leaves no room for rest, reflection, or simply being. I’ve come to realize that taking a step back doesn’t mean you’re giving up; it means you’re regrouping, reassessing, and realigning with what truly matters.

    I had to ask myself some tough questions: What do I really want? What’s the end goal? Is it just about making money, or is there something deeper I’m searching for? These questions forced me to dig deep and reevaluate my priorities. And what I found was that I don’t want to settle. I don’t want to live a life that’s just “good enough.” I want more, and that’s not selfish — it’s necessary for my growth and fulfillment.

    The Pressure to Accomplish More

    It’s funny how, when you’ve achieved certain milestones, you still feel like there’s so much more to accomplish. For years, I had this image in my mind of what my life would look like once I “made it.” But as I’ve checked off some of those boxes, I’ve realized that achieving goals doesn’t automatically lead to contentment. Instead, it often sparks a desire for more — more growth, more learning, more experiences.

    That’s where I am right now: I’m proud of what I’ve done, but I know there’s still so much more ahead of me. And while that thought used to overwhelm me, I’m learning to embrace it. It’s okay to have big dreams and to work toward them, but it’s also important to recognize that fulfillment isn’t something that happens all at once. It’s a continuous journey, not a final destination.

    The Power of Reimagining Success

    One of the most significant shifts in my mindset has been redefining what success means to me. For so long, I tied success to external markers — a title, a salary, a certain lifestyle. But those things don’t necessarily equate to happiness or fulfillment. Now, I’m starting to see success as something more personal. It’s about aligning with my values, pursuing my passions, and creating a life that feels authentic to who I am.

    Success doesn’t have to look the same for everyone, and that’s a beautiful thing. Some people find fulfillment in a stable, 9-to-5 job, while others thrive in more unconventional careers. Some are content with one income stream, while others feel called to explore multiple avenues. There’s no right or wrong way to do life — only the way that feels right for you.

    Moving Forward with Intention

    So, where do I go from here? I’m still figuring that out. But I know that moving forward means being intentional about my choices. It means letting go of the pressure to have everything figured out and allowing myself the space to explore, pivot, and grow.

    I’m learning to prioritize rest and self-care, especially in the face of burnout. I’m also giving myself permission to take risks, try new things, and fail along the way. There’s power in the unknown, in the willingness to step outside of your comfort zone and embrace uncertainty.

    If you’re feeling lost, rushed, or disappointed in where you are right now, know that it’s okay. It’s part of the process. Life isn’t always linear, and sometimes the detours are where we find the most growth. Keep believing that what’s meant for you will always be yours, and trust that you’re exactly where you need to be, even if it doesn’t feel like it right now.

    This journey is uniquely yours, and there’s no deadline for success. So take a deep breath, give yourself grace, and know that it’s okay to want more — and it’s okay to take your time figuring out what that more looks like.

  • October Journaling Prompts for Reflection and Growth

    Embrace the cozy season with mindful reflection and a dash of humor!

    October is here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably dusting off your favorite sweaters, contemplating how much pumpkin spice you can fit into your diet without judgment, and perhaps, considering how the year has flown by. (Seriously, wasn’t it just May?)

    As the leaves turn and the days get shorter, it’s a perfect time for a little reflection and personal growth. And what better way to do that than through journaling? Whether you’re new to journaling or it’s a tried-and-true practice, this October, let’s dive into some prompts that will help you look back on the year so far, express gratitude, and set some intentions for the remaining months—because 2024 isn’t done with us yet!

    Let’s break out those pens and cozy up with some mindful journaling prompts, sprinkled with a bit of humor to keep things light, even when the reflection gets deep.

    Why October?

    October is a month that straddles the line between the warmth of summer and the chill of winter. It’s a natural time to reflect on change, growth, and the passage of time. Plus, with nature around us transforming, it’s hard not to get a little introspective. This month invites us to take stock of where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re headed—without the stress of New Year’s resolutions looming over us.

    Let’s slow down, grab that cup of tea, and spend a little time on personal growth and gratitude.

    How to Make the Most of These Prompts

    Before we jump into the prompts, here are a few ways to get the most out of your journaling sessions this month:

    Set the Mood: Create a cozy environment. Light a candle, grab a blanket, and put on some calming music (or your favorite fall playlist, even if it’s just an endless loop of Taylor Swift). The goal is to make journaling feel like a treat.

    Stay Present: Incorporate a bit of mindfulness into your journaling. Before you start writing, take a few deep breaths, close your eyes, and just sit with your thoughts. You’ll find that your journaling will flow more naturally when you’re centered.

    No Pressure: Journaling isn’t about perfection. Your journal is a judgment-free zone. So, if your handwriting looks like a squirrel held the pen, or you can only manage a few lines some days, that’s okay. It’s all part of the process!

    Consistency Over Quantity: You don’t have to write pages every day. Even a few thoughtful sentences can make a difference. Try setting aside 10-15 minutes each day for reflection.

    October Journaling Prompts: Reflection and Growth

    Reflect on the Year So Far:

    “What’s something you’re proud of from the past nine months?”

    Think back to January. What goals did you set for yourself? Have they changed? This prompt encourages you to celebrate the wins, big or small. Maybe you ran a marathon, maybe you finally learned how to make a decent sourdough loaf (hey, a win’s a win). Write down those moments of pride and give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back.

    Embrace the Season:

    “How do you feel about change, and how has your perspective on it shifted over time?”

    With fall in full swing, nature is showing us how beautiful change can be. Use this prompt to explore your relationship with change. Do you welcome it, or does it make you want to hide under a pile of blankets? October is the perfect time to reflect on past changes and how they’ve shaped you.

    Practice Gratitude:

    “What are three things you’re grateful for this month?”

    This prompt is simple, but it’s powerful. Focusing on gratitude can shift your mindset and improve your overall mood. Whether it’s something as big as your health or as small as your favorite coffee shop’s seasonal latte, write it down and relish in the feeling of thankfulness.

    Set Intentions for the Last Quarter of the Year:

    “What do you want to accomplish before the year ends?”

    The last few months of the year can feel like a mad dash to the finish line, but let’s pause and breathe. What are your priorities as 2024 comes to a close? This isn’t about stressing over unmet goals; it’s about setting realistic, meaningful intentions. Whether it’s nurturing relationships, prioritizing self-care, or finally cleaning out that junk drawer, take a moment to plan ahead with kindness to yourself.

    Let Go of What No Longer Serves You:

    “What’s one thing you’re holding onto that you’re ready to release?”

    Just like trees shed their leaves, October is a time for letting go. Think about what’s been weighing you down this year. Maybe it’s a grudge, an unhelpful habit, or a pair of jeans you’re never going to fit into (it’s okay, we’ve all been there). Letting go is freeing, and it clears space for new things to come.

    What’s Your Personal Harvest?

    “What have you ‘harvested’ from your experiences this year?”

    In autumn, we harvest the fruits of our labor—literally and metaphorically. Take some time to reflect on the lessons you’ve learned and the growth you’ve experienced. Even challenges can produce valuable insights. What have you gained, even from the tough moments?

    Celebrate the Small Wins:

    “What small victories have brought you joy?”

    Sometimes we focus so much on the big picture that we forget to celebrate the little things. Maybe you kept up with a morning routine, or maybe you finally stopped doom-scrolling before bed (seriously, good for you!). Whatever your small victories are, write them down and feel proud.

    Reconnect with Nature:

    “How does spending time in nature affect your mood and mindset?”

    October invites us outside with crisp air and golden leaves. How do you feel when you immerse yourself in nature? Use this prompt to reflect on your relationship with the outdoors. Even a quick walk in the park can do wonders for your mood. (Bonus points if you can resist crunching all the leaves in your path. No judgment if you can’t—I mean, who can?)

    Focus on Your Mental Health:

    “What’s one thing you’ve done this year to prioritize your mental health?”

    Mental health should always be a priority, and October is a great time to check in with yourself. Have you been giving yourself the care and attention you need? If not, use this as a gentle reminder to show yourself some love, whether that means scheduling some alone time, seeing a therapist, or simply acknowledging your feelings.

    Plan for Joy:

    “What’s something fun or exciting you want to do before the year ends?”

    We all need something to look forward to, especially as the colder months roll in. Write about an activity, trip, or event that excites you. Planning something fun is an act of self-care, and it’s a great motivator to finish the year strong.

    Incorporating Mindfulness Into Your Journaling

    Now that you have a list of prompts to guide you, let’s talk about bringing mindfulness into the mix. Mindful journaling is all about being present with your thoughts and emotions, without judgment. Here’s how you can weave mindfulness into your journaling practice this October:

    Start with a Breathing Exercise: Before you begin writing, try a simple breathing exercise. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat a few times until you feel grounded and ready to write.

    Be Present with Your Emotions: As you journal, notice how each prompt makes you feel. Are you excited? Nervous? Maybe a little resistant? Instead of pushing any emotions away, acknowledge them and explore why they’re coming up.

    Write Slowly: In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to rush through things, even journaling. This October, take your time. Write slowly, savoring each word. Let your thoughts flow naturally, without worrying about structure or grammar.

    Engage Your Senses: Use sensory language in your journal entries to bring them to life. Describe how things smell, taste, feel, look, and sound. Engaging your senses can make journaling more immersive and help you stay in the moment.

    End with Gratitude: No matter what you’ve written about, close your journaling session by writing down one thing you’re grateful for in that moment. It’s a small but powerful way to shift your mindset toward positivity.

    Approaching the Year With Intention

    October isn’t just about spooky movies and pumpkin patches (though those are non-negotiables, let’s be real). It’s a month of transition, reflection, and growth. By diving into these journaling prompts, you’ll not only get to reflect on the year that’s passed but also set the stage for a mindful and intentional finish to 2024.

    Remember, journaling is a personal practice. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, and you don’t have to follow these prompts in order. The goal is to spend a little time with yourself, exploring your thoughts, emotions, and intentions for the months ahead.

    So, grab that journal, pour yourself something warm, and let’s embrace the beauty of reflection this October—pumpkin spice optional, but highly recommended.

    Happy journaling!