11.30.2021

How To Save A Significant Amount Of Money On Your Monthly Outgoings

 A family getaway or a more stable bank balance are both worthy goals, but saving money isn't always easy. Saving money sometimes means giving up indulgences like takeout or a night out, and adhering to this new constraint can be challenging. However, there are several really basic yet highly effective ways to save a significant amount of money on your monthly payments. Not only that, but there are also ways that you may even be able to make some extra money to give you a little more to play with; from online surveys, to games that pay real money, the internet is full of opportunities to explore. If, however, you simply want to save some money, take a look at the tips below and start taking those first steps towards better financial management.


https://unsplash.com/photos/tn57JI3CewI 


Educate Yourself About Finances

Unfortunately, managing finance and being good with money isn’t taught in most schools. 
But this is a skill that we can all do with, especially now. It isn’t all bad news though 
because there are tons of free and powerful resources available to anyone. 
For instance, most banks, such as Evolve Bank & Trust, have YouTube channels 
with informative videos for making the most of your cash and being more responsible.

No matter your age, these kinds of videos can help you manage debt, navigate the

banking system and make your money work for you. Taking expensive courses isn’t an

option for everyone, so whether young or older, check these out and help yourself

secure a safer college life and a more secure future.


One of the best things you can do is learn how to budget. From looking at the cost of

utilities like gas, electricity, and American Water to understanding how much it costs to

live with things like groceries and self-care needs. Once you learn how to do this, you can

start to become more financially secure. 


Include the kids in the process.

Why not involve your children in the process of saving money? After all, raising a child is an expensive endeavor. Your kids probably want money for new toys or a weekend outing with pals, so rather than just handing it over, assign them jobs to earn it. In addition to the fact that you won't have had to hire a cleaning service, your home will be spotless.


In order to reduce your energy consumption, you might also consider using a laundry service. Appliances such as your washer and dryer consume a lot of electricity, and it may be more cost-effective to utilize a laundry service rather than doing your own laundry in some cases, particularly for delicate things that require special care when washing.


Treat yourself once a month

Having to give up the things you enjoy in order to save money is a necessary sacrifice. But if you don't appreciate this new phase of your life, you'll likely break and wind up overspending. Like letting yourself a small amount of money for your guilty pleasure will help you avoid spending too much money and ending up back at square one again.


Invest to save

Investing your money might be a necessary step towards making money. This is also true when it comes to saving money! Investing in items such as:

  1. Solar panels can help you save a significant amount of money. While initially costly, they pay for themselves eventually. Not only that, but your utility bills will be significantly reduced, particularly during the summer!

  2. Greener home appliances like your freezer and hairdryer will dramatically lower your electricity usage. Purchasing energy-efficient home appliances will lower your monthly utility expenditures.

  3. A vegetable patch and an intelligent watering system will eliminate the need to purchase expensive organic food from the supermarket, as you will be growing it yourself! You can use a smart irrigation system to aid with all aspects of your garden, so you know it's a good investment.


Purchase supermarket-brand food

We understand that we all have our favorite meals that we can't live without, but do you really need to stick to well-known brands while shopping for food? Many stores sell nearly identical food under their own labels, which are always cheaper than branded names. Consider your typical loaf of bread. Is there a noticeable difference between the two, and if there is, will switching to a different brand have any effect? Purchasing supermarket-branded products will cut your weekly food costs in half!


Develop better financial habits.

It's all well and good to save, but if you're not excellent with money to begin with, there's a risk you'll slip up and fall back into the same rut. That's why it's critical to develop better money habits as soon as possible! Some instances are as follows:

  1. Always know how much money you have in your bank. Despite the fact that you may not like the balance, you will be able to detect if something has been removed that shouldn't have been.

  2. Cancel any direct debits that aren't being used or that you don't want. Things like magazine subscriptions and gym memberships should not be kept if you do not require/want them.

  3. Consider your options carefully before making a significant purchase. After giving it some serious thought, most people realize that they no longer want to spend the money they've saved up.

  4. Ask your bank for a better savings account. Higher interest rates, restricted overdrafts, and even difficulty getting funds may result in easier saving and harder spending.


Take a look at your credit score

Finally, pay close attention to your credit score! Many individuals are apprehensive of it because of the language that has been linked with it. Today's credit check firms, on the other hand, have made it easier than ever before for you to access your credit score and work on improving it. Clearscore is a free program that will help you accomplish just that! Not only that, but it will also assist you in making changes that will help you boost your credit score!


A strong credit score equates to sound financial habits, which makes saving money easier than ever.


11.23.2021

5 Harmless Brightening Agents For A Healthier-Looking Skin

 


Source

Although it may be hard to admit, how our skin appears and feels can have a drastic effect on our self-esteem and confidence. Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and perhaps the first feature people notice when they meet us.

A theory developed by Didier Anzieu called ‘Skin-Ego’ theory describes the science and relation between skin and self-confidence in detail. The theory suggests our skin is a crucial part of our identity. Its health impacts our psyche and self-esteem. People who are comfortable in their skin view themselves and the world in a positive light, radiating a kind of energy that attracts people around them. In contrast, those who lack this self-confidence tend to shy away from social interactions and everyday tasks, fearing judgment and criticism. Thus, giving our skin the attention and care it deserves is necessary for our physical and mental well-being. 

The question remains, how does one devise a skincare routine to make them look and feel good? Especially nowadays when we have tons of skincare products available in the market promising unrealistic results. Not only do these cost a lot, but they also contain harmful ingredients any person would have a hard time pronouncing. To help you initiate your skincare journey on the right foot, we have compiled a list of all-natural and organic ingredients with known skincare benefits. These will undoubtedly give you radiant, healthy-looking skin in no time. 

  1. Glutathione

An ingredient that you should keep an eye out for is glutathione. Ranging from its antioxidant properties to its anti-melanogenic effects, the benefits of glutathione are endless. It helps reduce the production of melanin within the skin. Several scientific studies claim it is a wonder drug for skin lightening. Not only does it help combat wrinkles by increasing the skin’s elasticity, but it also reduces dark spots and prevents hyperpigmentation. Glutathione supplements are a wise choice for anyone concerned with skin health and well-being. Since you cannot ingest the chemical orally because of the action of intestinal enzymes, the most reliable way to administer glutathione is through IV supplementation. 

  1. Kojic acid 

Another antioxidant that has proven helpful in fighting discoloration and dark spots is a chelation agent derived from several species of fungi called kojic acid. This white crystalline powder is an all-natural and harmless substitute for hydroquinone, a controversial drug in skincare. Its anti-microbial properties allow it to fight off bacterial strains responsible for causing acne and rashes. At the same time, its anti-fungal properties are effective against yeast infections, candidiasis, and athlete’s foot disease caused by ringworm. Several over-the-counter topical creams are containing kojic acid are available in the market and can deliver visible results in a week or two. Doctors may recommend a glycolic acid treatment side by side if the scarring is too dark for better results. 

  1. Indian gooseberry

From skin burns to rashes, conventional chemical skin brighteners are known to have damaging effects on the skin in the long run. Research conducted by Dr. Zoe Draelos on extracts from a plant called Phyllanthus Emblica, or more commonly known as Indian Gooseberry, revealed the plant possessed healing properties. These properties were equivalent to or even better than those present in well-known and pricy skin brighteners. By helping the skin retain its natural moisture and protecting it against oxidative stress, Emblica allows the skin to age slowly and gracefully. Its high Vitamin C content combats fine lines and wrinkles by encouraging collagen and elastin production. Indian gooseberry is available in powdered form or as capsules as a dietary supplement. 

  1. Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3 or niacinamide is a stable vitamin proven to be a valuable ingredient in fighting signs of aging. Vitamin B3 promotes the production of ceramides and elastin, both of which are essential components of the skin’s protective barrier. A strong protective shield allows the skin to defend itself against external irritants and acne-causing bacteria. While the detailed effect of niacinamide on the skin isn’t known, it is evident that it tames down the sebaceous glands in the skin. Thus, regulating oil production and minimizing pore appearance.

Moreover, a study conducted in 2015 showed regular intake of niacinamide could protect against non-melanoma skin cancers. When topically applied, niacinamide converts into NAD – Nicotinamide Adenine Linaclotide. With its free-radical fighting and antioxidant properties, NAD can reverse DNA damage caused by environmental pollution and UV radiation. For visible results, dermatologists recommend using leave-in products like serums, toners, moisturizers, and lotions containing this miraculous vitamin. 

  1. Licorice extract

A typical everyday ingredient with more skin benefits than you can imagine is licorice. Licorice root contains a chemical called glycyrrhizin that works miracles against skin inflammation. Not only can it combat redness and itchiness, but it is also effective against persisting skin problems like atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis. Research has also proven licorice has antioxidant properties that guard your skin against sun damage and premature aging. While licorice can be taken as a dietary supplement, using skincare products with licorice root as an active ingredient provide more effective results. 

Conclusion

Mentioned above are a few of the many ingredients which promote healthy and nourished skin. Taking care of your skin and establishing a skincare routine doesn’t necessarily have to be complicated. The key to determining which ingredients and products will work best for you is to know your skin type. From oily and dry to combination and acne-prone skin, all have different requirements that need to be kept in mind. If you aren’t 100% sure, it is worth a quick trip to your local dermatologist. Once you know your skin in detail, you’ll know what ingredients to choose and what to avoid in your everyday regimen. With some consistency and patience, you will see visible results!


Chris Tomlin Tour




 Big news: Hillsong UNITED and  Chris Tomlin are going on a 33-city tour!

 Hillsong UNITED and #TomlinUNITEDMIN tickets are on sale now! Check out the cities HERE

and find a date near you!

My entire family enjoys Chris Tomlin and Hillsong united and we will turn the music on while driving, my favorite song is " Made to Worship" - because we were created to worship the King. 

Buy Links: LINK to get your ticket, you do not want to miss this. 

 We also have a giveaway for you to get your self some free music downloads.  Leave a comment below and tell me if you are going to a concert near you 



Disclosure:

Many thanks to Premier Productions and #MomentumInfluencerNetwork for providing this product/product information for review.  Opinions are 100% my own.  I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

4 Signs You Are Suffering From Anxiety'


It’s normal to feel worried from time to time due to events that occur around and to you in life. This might be because something out of the ordinary happens, and even if it is a good thing, these minor adjustments and interruptions can make us feel uncomfortable and out of place for a brief amount of time.

 

However, if you have an anxiety illness, as some people undoubtedly have, our natural propensity to worry about things and, to some degree, to look for the worst in everything can become a problem that impacts you in all aspects of life and won't let you go. It has the potential to take over your whole life and, in certain situations, even lead to depression.

 

It can be tough to tell whether you have anxiety since it manifests itself in so many different ways, including social anxiety, panic attacks, various phobias, and more. Read on to learn about some of the symptoms of anxiety, and if you believe you are suffering, schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.

 

Photo by Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas from Pexels

 

Excessive Worry

Anxiety is linked to a wide range of different terms. The most common, and one with which most individuals would have heard of, is generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. When someone has GAD, they are too worried about everything, whether it is a little problem or something more serious. The main issue with GAD is that it is a long-term disorder that can last for months or even years, and a proper diagnosis can only be established after six months. When you are diagnosed, however, your doctor might be able to prescribe medication that will help with other issues linked to anxiety, including sleep aids, or they might put you in touch with a TRT provider

 

Because of the condition's long-term nature, it makes dealing with every other element of life exceedingly challenging. It causes tiredness, energy difficulties and may also influence your weight, leading you to gain or lose pounds that you don't want to gain or lose. 

 

Sleep Issues

Another issue related to anxiety is difficulty falling or staying asleep for a whole night. Of course, there will always be moments when sleep is difficult to come by; if you have an important event the following day that you must not be late for, or if something is scary or exciting (or both), sleep might seem impossible. It's difficult to sleep if you're unwell and can't get comfortable because you have a fever or clogged nose. There are several causes, but if it is more than a one-time occurrence and occurs regularly, the cause may be anxiety. 

 

What makes things worse is that when you can't sleep and wake up in the middle of the night, your mind wanders to all the difficulties you're dealing with, and the concerns circle in your head. Financial troubles, marital issues, embarrassing things you said or did, and a variety of other factors will make sleep even more difficult to come by. So it's a vicious cycle in which you can't sleep because you're nervous, and then you're even more anxious because you can't sleep and allow your body and mind to rest completely.

 

Irrational Fears

Although, as previously said, worry is often pervasive, it can also be much more concentrated, focusing on a particular problem that becomes much greater than it would normally be. Your phobias are often the basis of the problem, and no matter what this irrational fear (what a phobia is) is, it will become bigger and more terrible when anxiety takes hold.

 

When this occurs, the terror may become intolerable. It may hinder you from enjoying your normal life because you are so scared of your unique scenario that you think you have no control over it. If this happens, you will be labelled with an anxiety disorder.

 

Muscle Tension

Are your muscles continually tense, even if you aren't aware of it? Perhaps you've had the sensation for so long that it feels normal, and it's only when you stop to think about it that you realize how tense you actually are. If your jaw is clenched and you are grinding your teeth, or if your fists are twisted into balls, or if your shoulders are raised higher than they should be, you may be suffering from anxiety.

 

When your muscles are always tight, you will have difficulty sleeping, which is one issue, but it may also lead to injury since tense muscles do not have the suppleness to move as easily and can therefore be injured in circumstances where they would not be if they were less stressed.

 

Exercising regularly is a great approach to relieve muscular tension and give your body greater flexibility. Working out can also make you feel less nervous in certain circumstances because of the hormones produced in your body, so it can help you feel better in various ways.

11.05.2021

Home Building Solutions for Sydney Residents

 

If you are in Sydney, Australia, then it is good to know that there are builders prepared to build you a home from the ground up or to rebuild an area of your home to fit in with your design ideas and make your home more convenient to live in. Home Builder Sydney options can be the solution to your dreams and preferable to moving home to somewhere you might not enjoy living quite so much. Alternatively, you can find that plot of land where you want to live and have a builder put the house you want onto that very spot, where building permission is granted.

So, to the ideas …


Single or Double Storey?

With the right foundations, you can add another storey to your house or start again and have the two storeys that you have always desired. They create double the space and give you a better view. It is space-saving on a patch of land to have one layer on top of the other. It will allow you more land for other things. Those into the environment will appreciate that extra greenery surrounding them. Why not build a tennis court, area to play soccer, or a mini-golf course, on that patch of land where you have space now? Instead, you could keep the trees that make the air purer and feel completely at one with nature.

So, create yourself some extra space inside and out by going for a Double Storey home and by having a professional building firm help design and create that for you.


Create More Light and a Better View

By having more glass in your home, you can create more light and have a view that is now possible to see. In the summer, you can feel like you are almost outside, even on wet days. When it is colder, you can enjoy that same view inside your home with the comfort and warmth to enjoy it.

Sydney can be found along New South Wales’ east coast, so this means that there are sea views aplenty to be enjoyed, when your house allows for them. It is just a case of making them visible from all sides of your house, depending on how you face the vistas. There is nothing to beat a panoramic view from inside the home. We see them on picture postcards and always hope one day that we can see them from a house we own. This is possible by choosing the right location and then building the house to enjoy them. If not building from the ground up, then altering the house that we have to take advantage of our environment. We do, after all, pay a premium for that kind of view, so it is worth some additional expense to gain maximum benefit from having it.


Improved Interior Design

We can save much space indoors by designing a house so that it has built-in wardrobes to house our clothes. You cannot have a built-in wardrobe unless your wall allows for it in the first place.

Wall sconces can be incorporated into a house design. They mean that lighting fixtures are fitted with the wall for support. It is something to think about in the building process. Historically, these kinds of fittings would hold candles.

Building an attic room will create another bedroom without going to the expense of having a Double Storey built. Many people will convert their attic or loft space to this purpose and then store their surplus items elsewhere.

Shelves can be built into walls to be practical and save on space Also, having a wall space set aside for your TV will take it off the floor.


So, some ideas here to help us understand just what a housebuilder, such as those in Sydney, can do to enhance our daily living. Their ideas, combined with ours, can provide us with more space, comfort, and a better view

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