5 Must-Have Planners for 2016

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Wow, 2015 flew by didn't it?! It's time to get ready for 2016, and as you all probably have picked up, we are obsessed with starting the year off with a planner. Of course, if you're going to lug your calendar around, you might as well carry it around in style. Target never fails with their super cute planners like this one from Sugar Paper. We like it because the planner is pretty big allowing us to write a lot into each day of the week. This one from Anthropologie is one of the best too because it is filled with inspirational words to get you through the year. Whichever planner you choose, make sure it is something you would enjoy looking at all year long!

Tips/Advice We've Learned Over 2014

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We are in the new year now {yay!} and we couldn't be more excited for what's ahead. Every year we try to reflect on everything and hopefully learn from every experience. Here are a few lessons we learned in 2014 that we hope to carry out in 2015. Who knows, you might have learned the same lessons too!

1. There is no sense in continuing to invest in anything not making you feel 100% fulfilled or happy.
2. Honesty is the BEST policy.
3. Express yourself--even if it means feelings can possibly get hurt along the way.
4. Stop and smell the roses--you don't have to be on your phone all the time.
5. Not all friendships are worth keeping--know when it's time to go your separate ways.
6. Love can hurt, but don't be afraid to fall for it!
7. Take advantage of every opportunity even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
8. You define yourself--not social media or society.
9. It's okay to take a break--no one expects you to be Superwoman (or man) every second of the day.
10. If you don't take care of yourself, then who will? Feed your mind, feed your body, and feed your spirit.

Happy New Year!

Make The Most Of Dreaming Big This 2014 (Madeleine)

The New Year is the best time to set new goals! Most people have difficulty following through with their goals, but one great way to stay on track is to create a “dream board.” Even Oprah swears by it! Essentially, a dream board is a collection of pictures, words, and phrases that will inspire you and remind you daily of your objectives! I was shocked that only a few short months after creating one for myself, I had accomplished over half of the goals I set. Images are so powerful and it’s a great feeling to use them in such a positive way!

Want to make your own dream board? Follow the steps below!

1. Set your goals – Do you want to land a job or internship? Improve your health or fitness? Learn a new language? Want to save money for that Michael Kors bag you’ve been crushing on forever? Make your goals specific and realistic – don’t try to lose 20 pounds in a month, you’ll drive yourself crazy! 
2. Find compelling images – use magazines, Google images, favorite celebrities,       inspirational quotes, etc.
3. Make a cute collage including all of the pictures you find on a big poster board.
4. Hang it somewhere you look everyday – think subliminal messaging!
5. Go conquer the world!

 It can be overwhelming to decide which goals to focus on. Here are some of the ones I chose for my dream board: 

• Take more pictures with a REAL camera and print them out
• Write more letters
• Read five books
• Save $1,000
• Work out at least 4 times a week
• Get three A’s spring semester
• Drink more green smoothies
• Give more compliments

It’s so simple and rewarding. You’ll be thanking yourself for the daily reminder – it will motivate you to actively work towards your goals. Once you’ve accomplished all of them, save the board as a memento and start a new one!  

More digitally inclined? Check out Oprah’s online dream board creator: http://www.oprah.com/spirit/O-Dream-Board-Envision-Your-Best-LifeTM

New Year, New Resolutions

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Every year, people come up with all sorts of "new year's resolutions" that they will try to keep.  We've heard them all... from going to the gym more often, to being more punctual.  But really here, what about the smaller resolutions?!  You know, the things that make your day a little happier, a little brighter?  Now those are the new year's resolutions we're after in 2014!  This year, we're seeking our resolutions in the form of daily doses of happiness...

1.  Enjoy the sunshine.  Grab lunch outside, take the dog for a walk.
2.  Call your mom, call your grandma.  She will appreciate it.
3.  Say "I love you."  Tell your friends, sisters, your significant other, your family.
4.  Wash your makeup brushes.  Your face will thank you.
5.  Take vitamins.
6.  Spend some time away from your phone.  Put it down, and feel comfortable with that.
7.  Feel in the moment; enjoy what you're doing right now.
8.  Give big hugs.
9.  Learn something new; like how to cook a new dish, or how to swing a golf club.
10.  Skip that Starbucks, make coffee at home when you can.  Little savings make your wallet happy.
11.  Checking out at the grocery store?  Ask the cashier how their day is going, and make them smile.
12.  Treat yourself to something.  If you really want that cupcake, feel guilt-free in moderation.
13.  Make a lunch date with a friend once a week.
14.  Be giving... from volunteering your time, to giving a smile.
15.  That song you love?  Blast it.  On repeat.
16.  Try out a new lip color.  From cherry red to orchid.
17.  Light a yummy scented candle when you're home.
18.  Eat more fresh fruits and veggies.
19.  Walk, take the stairs.  Extra cardio adds up, and raises endorphins.
20.  Oh and did we mention...share a smile!  It's contagious :)

Cheers to you, and a year ahead filled with joy.  We can't wait to share all that the new year has in store with all of you!  Until then, we will catch you in 2014!