Smokeless smoking

I am a smoker and have been for the last 25 + years.  Back in the day we were able to buy single cigarettes at the corner shop without fear of being asked for ID and hide behind the bandstand smoking half at a time so they would last until the next pocket money day.  The 80's were a completely different world, almost like to world stopped, had a crazy 10 years and then continued in a whole new direction.  That actually sounds like another blog post topic to explore later, so, back to my disgusting habit ...

There have been times when I have given up, not many though as I have always enjoyed smoking.  There I said it, I enjoyed it!  Sitting on the back step with a glass of wine or a cup of tea, ciggy in hand and contemplating life often restored my sanity.  I didn't smoke during my pregnancies, but I have to admit that it was more down to the fact that was so sick than it was about health or will power.  I have to say at this point, 22 years ago when I was pregnant with my first child, the midwife advice was to just cut down rather than to give up all together, thus avoiding undue stress.  Attitudes towards smoking have been changing for a long time, the smoking ban in public places although not initially welcomed by smokers has been a good thing and with duty on tobacco rising so steeply, smoking is an expensive habit.

Last year I was very poorly, no one realised just how poorly, in fact the doctor was surprised that I had walked into the hospital under my own steam.  I will spare you the details, but for several days, I was bracing myself for a cancer diagnosis and that was a very sobering few days.  It wasn't cancer and after an operation and some follow up treatment, I made a good recovery.  So, smoking had to stop!

I covered my self in nicotine patches, I tried chewing them, I shouted a lot and I sat on the back step looking in to an abyss.  I lasted a couple of months before a stressful day sent me over the edge and I succumbed to a packet of cigarettes.  It only took one and I was a smoker again ...

There is however a happy ending to my story, not a fairytale one but close enough.  Electronic Cigarettes.  I actually came across them through a spam email, who'd have thought it?  Anyway, I sent off for my starter pack and the following day they arrived complete with stylish case to carry them in.  I haven't looked back since.  The white part of the cigarette is rechargeable and the refills that provide the nicotine work out at about £1 a day (far less than a packet of ciggy's).  The electronic cigarette is used just the same as a real one, the vapour that carries the nicotine gives a real smoking experience without the harmful chemicals and bad smell.  They are also completely legal to 'smoke' in public places, although I wouldn't as explaining myself would get very annoying.  The best bit for me is being able to smoke at my desk, in the bath or even in bed!

So, I probably can't call myself an ex smoker just yet, but its a start.

Kinky Knickers

They were told it couldn’t be done but today Mary Portas' 'Kinky Knickers', a range made only in the UK, went on sale at Boots.com.


I love Mary Portas, to my mind she talks a lot of sense, but 10 quid for a pair of knickers? we are most definitely not in Primark now Toto! Are they worth £10? Well actually I do think they are, although not the prettiest of knickers I will ever of worn, they are practical and the ethos behind them is one in which we should all get behind.  As Mary said herself, if a few pounds is all you can really afford then that is fine, but if you can afford to spend money on fancy coffees, then you can afford to buy kinky knickers and  support British manufacturing.  I for one will be buying them because that little lad in a borrowed suit wants to make his son proud!

£1 from every pair sold by Boots will be donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. 

VISIT BOOTS.COM

Shall I appologise for being intelligent?

The furore around Dennis Waterman at the moment is very interesting and has bought out several rather surprising opinions, or are they that surprising? 

The issue that everyone is struggling with is the difference between a woman who is ‘beaten’ and one who is ‘hit’.  Is there a difference?  Well morally of course there is no difference; violence in any circumstance is wrong and thankfully now socially unacceptable.  Having said that, in my opinion, yes there is a difference.

I am an intelligent woman, yes I know some of you who know me will be rolling your eyes, but I am and I don’t think I will be apologising for that any time soon!  Many years ago I was robbed of my young, bright and enquiring mind by a man who beat me until I wasn’t sure of my own name let alone an opinion.  This behaviour had nothing to do with intelligence; there was no argument to win.  When a woman is repeatedly beaten both physically and verbally it is about control and something deeply rooted in the man’s psyche.  When a man hits a woman because he can’t win an argument, I would suggest that it is about frustration and the slap is the equivalent to a small child stamping their feet. I have also been on the receiving end of a man who lashed out at me, shortly after I had screamed what I assumed to be the last word at him.  Don’t get me wrong I am not saying this is acceptable or that it was my fault.  I do however think that the psychological implications in both circumstances are very different and therefore all levels of abuse need to be talked about in equal measure.

Waterman is of the generation and dare I say class where the stamping of the foot instinct is replaced by lashing out with a fist fairly early in life, which brings me to my point, it’s about education and social boundaries.  It’s about the way in which we talk about violence and about the way we give our children the tools that they will need in adulthood. It’s about the support we give to women.  It is also about they way we as a society deal with that abuse so that they don’t do it again

I realise that what I have written here is maybe a little contentious and will evoke some strong reactions, but I say lets do it, lets talk about the issue, lets tell those women still laying on the bathroom floor that we will carry them to safety.  And let’s tell those men that finish an argument with their fists that a real man walks away

Editors note:

It has been bought to my attention that this post implies that domestic abuse is a working class and education issue.  I would like to clarify that my point about class was directed at Waterman himself.  Domestic abuse happens in all classes and sadly it often those women further up the social ladder that are the hardest to reach.  I also accept that it is not a persons education or lack of that causes them to abuse or be abused, but I do stand by the fact that education about the issues surrounding abuse is essential.

I have written this piece very much in haste as I considered it worthy of comment, I am very happy to elaborate on any of the points that I have made

The I Am Woman Campaign

The 'I Am Woman' Campaign is about using our voices to help other women. To raise awareness of women across the planet who have in effect 'lost their voice' or had it taken away...either through, fear, abuse, illness or war. We all have a voice, whether that be through our blogs, social networks or talking to people in our daily lives. We must speak for them until they can do it for themselves. 


Please use the link on the right hand side of this page to pop over to the I am Woman website and see how you can get involved


Thank you

Exercise and Libido

If your sex drive isn’t what it used to be, don’t be so quick to blame it on your age. The answer to a low libido may be as simple as putting on exercise shoes and moving your body more. It appears that exercise may be a simple, all-natural way to increase libido. Not only can it increase desire, there’s some evidence that the increased blood flow associated with exercise can help with erectile dysfunction in men.

Why does exercise increase libido? The reasons exercise can give your sex life a boost is probably multi-factorial. Exercise gets the heart pumping and increases blood flow to all parts of the body including sexual organs which can enhance desire while enabling better sexual performance. Exercise also promotes weight loss and studies have shown that obesity is associated with a higher incidence of erectile dysfunction in men.

When you exercise, certain hormonal changes take place that can indirectly increase libido. When you swing into a face paced exercise routine your sympathetic nervous system kicks out higher levels of adrenaline, a hormone which pumps you up and heightens your sense of awareness. This helps to fuel a more powerful sex drive. Exercise also increases the release of the “feel good” hormones known as endorphins which can promote relaxation and reduce performance anxiety. Both of these powerful body chemicals can help to increase libido and enhance sexual performance.

Another way exercise increases libido is by fostering a greater sense of self confidence. When you exercise you become more aware of your body as well as more self confident about your appearance. This can cause you to be less inhibited and self conscious and more secure in your relationship.

Research shows that testosterone levels in men increase within an hour after working out. Women also produce low levels of testosterone and get a boost in testosterone production after a vigorous workout. Higher testosterone levels are associated with higher sexual desire.

One of the best ways to increase libido and enhance your sex life is to start an exercise program with your partner. Working out together can be a sensual, relationship strengthening experience. Choose something that both of you enjoy. Biking, jogging, and walking are good ways to strengthen your heart while pumping out hormones that will enhance your sex drive. Practising yoga as a twosome can also bring you closer together while increasing testosterone levels. You can even find special workout videos designed specifically for couples by doing a search online.

Exercise is a safe and natural way to increase libido while doing something healthy for your body and your mind. If your sex life could use a little boost, why not do it the healthy natural way?

New Look: Desert Trek!

New Look is not somewhere that I would normally shop, but images of their latest latest trend have just landed in my inbox and I have to say I would probably go for some of their spring/summer collection, 


Desert Trek, mixes utility styling with ethnic prints for a new way to wear pattern this summer. Mix up animal with aztec as slouchy casual fabrics are updated. Neutral colour combinations look sophisticated but can be livened up with hints of neon brights. Be bold and wear this look head to toe, or mix it up with khaki jackets. This is a great way to approach accessories too, especially loose ethnic scarves and canvas rucksacks. Here’s some of my  favourites to give you a little inspiration!


How pretty is this dress?  and only £22.99



Oh and these shoes are a bit funky!

Why reading is so important to me

Guest post by Vic Watson

© Freds 

It saddens when I hear people talking about their children’s hobbies. They seem to include computers and games consoles almost exclusively. I spent my childhood travelling around the world, meeting all sorts of interesting people and I did all this without ever leaving my house.

“How?” you ask. I read books.

I’m a writer now and I believe my ability to construct realistic situations and believable characters is down to the fact that I have been reading avidly since I was a child. Even now, there’s nothing better than snuggling under the duvet or lounging in the sunshine with a book or my Kindle and being transported to another world. I read in the bath, I read in bed. No matter where I am, I’m never without a book.

I can imagine most things but I can’t imagine what life would be like without stories. My childhood, and subsequently my adulthood, would a far bleaker place. Books have helped me survive so many things.

While I was a student, I limited myself to reading books for pleasure to holidays only. I read mostly chick lit as a way of escaping from the stressful, work-heavy academic reading I did for uni. When I was at university, I began a relationship with a man who, at first seemed to worship the ground I walked on. I’d initially dismissed him for being too full-on but, after being messed about by a few guys, I decided to give him another chance. We got engaged six months into our relationship.

Sadly, once we moved in together, he became mentally and physically abusive. He had issues with alcohol and I thought, if I tried harder, things would improve. It was around this time that I began to start to broaden my reading. I read Ann Rule’s ‘The Stranger Beside Me’ which was about Ted Bundy, an outwardly intelligent, charismatic man but in reality was a psychotic misogynist who murdered women. That book helped me realise someone can seem one thing but who is something completely different.

There were many occasions when I considered suicide because I could see no other way out. Then I read ‘A Woman’s Courage’ by Jacqueline Gold, the chief executive of Ann Summers. After reading how Gold had escaped mentally abusive relationships, I realised that there must be a way out. Eventually, with the support of my family, I was able to leave that person behind, without becoming seriously injured or ending up dead.

When I moved home, I threw myself into reading as a way of leaving behind the drama in my real life. Around the same time, I began a Creative Writing course which helped improve my confidence and helped me meet people.

I still love to read and I have turned reading into a career of sorts. I review books for book stores, writers and publishers. I’m also a writer. Without books, and one in particular, I honestly don’t think I would have survived to enjoy this period of my life. 

http://elementaryvwatson.wordpress.com/

http://iamwomancampaign.blogspot.com/

Help!

The recent events in my personal life have lead me to a much needed period of quiet reflection.  There were a couple of days when I even lost my smile, but if there is one thing that life has taught me, it is that the soul, just like a broken bone, needs time to heal.  There is a saying that I often quote; "sometimes the best way to move forward is to take a step back". Effectively it gives us permission to remove ourselves from the world for a period of time, regroup body and soul and see the way forward more clearly.

I believe that even in the darkest of times that there is opportunity and I know that a cry for help will always be answered, sometimes from the strangest of places and often by strangers.  So why are the words "I need help" so hard to say?  For a woman completely broken by abuse, the idea that she is worthy of help is often completely absurd to her.   Protecting those we love from the harsh reality of our problems or pride are also often responsible for the escalation of a situation.  We are not designed to be solitary beings and I can guarantee that what seems to be so immense when kept inside, can be broken down into manageable chunks when shared.

This week a very humbling thing has happened to me, I have made connections with some very brave women.  As I believe in opportunity, I am certain that the universe sent me these women not only to enrich my own life, but because I can do something.

And this is what I have come up with;  I have a voice, not only through my blog and work but also through the strength that being a survivor has given to me.  To this end I intend to start a campaign called 'I am Woman'.  I will use part of my blog to post inspirational stories, I will shout my support wherever I can and I will fundraise to enable the organisations that give women a voice to do what they do.

I am also going to shout those hardest of words - I NEED HELP!  I don't have a concrete plan yet, so any thoughts or ideas that you may have will be greatly appreciated.

One voice can make a difference, but a group of voices have the potential to change the world!

http://iamwomancampaign.blogspot.com/

The Ice is the Slice!

If you are anything like me at the end of a long day, you will want your G&T and you will want it quickly!

My top tip for making sure that there is no delay in the delivery of your drink, is to pre slice a lemon and put it into the freezer.

Ice and a slice - done!

Creating a feeling of well being - advertorial

http://lotusfloweronline.com/

Creating a feeling of well being and pleasure in your home radiates into the rest of your life. Fragrance and aroma is a symbol of calmness. A fragrance can set up a mood like romanticism in the atmosphere. Aromatherapy with fragrance lamps is a safe way to create wonderful fragrances in every room of your home, setting a cozy ambiance as it emits a sense of spirituality and calmness into the room. People nowadays need surroundings that emanate fresh air and smooth scents. New Leaf Aromas Lamp Fragrances offer an exciting collection of thirty-one handcrafted aromas. Infuse your home with the aromas you love. Our abundant collection is comforting & uplifting, here we blend precious ingredients with pure functionality to truly improve your downtime. Now, your home can smell, just like you want it to. New Leaf Aromas Lamp Fragrances - Fragrances for the great indoors! New Leaf Aromas Fragrance amps have an exciting Nature-Meets-Science element; they cleverly suffuse mood-lifting fragrances into the air whist purifying it at the same time.

http://lotusfloweronline.com/

The secret of the fragrance lamp lies in its unique catalytic stone. The stone is heated by a flame until a determined heat level is reached and a process called “Catalytic Combustion” begins, causing air to flow over the contours of the stone. The lamp simultaneously draws up the fragrance through the stone and releases the aroma and perfume into the air. Simple, yet stunningly effective! Fragrance lamps can burn safely for hours as they do not work on an open flame making it safe to use than candles. They add beauty and a touch of luxury to any home interior and make great centre pieces. Treat yourself, a friend or someone you love to our New Leaf Aromas Home Fragrance Collection. They are the ultimate gift; a joy to give and a privilege to receive! Turning every home into a haven...

The Lotus Flower (UK) Limited is the sole distributors of New Leaf Aromas Fragrance Lamps & New Leaf Aromas Lamp Fragrances throughout the UK and Europe.

Portfolio Working

© Kurhan

I had not heard of portfolio working until yesterday, when I came across a journalist wanting to interview a portfolio worker.  After a thorough googling I came to the conclusion that I may very well be one, but at 42 I was somewhat out of the age bracket that the journalist was looking for!  Could it be that only young people have cool job titles?

So what is portfolio working?   Well in essence it is a term that has recently become  popular to describe people who organise their work life balance to a harmonious level.

Portfolio workers are not employed by any one client or company.  They would also have several skills that they turn into revenue streams.  Call me old fashioned, but until yesterday I would have called such people freelancers or self employed.   You can also be a portfolio worker if you work for a company part time but also have your own business, too.

Like most things recently, the current economic crisis is very likely responsible for the rise in freelancers and the term portfolio worker was born out of a need to make us freelancers modern, sexy and cool.  The rise in redundancies and lack of job security has made freelancing into a mainstream option and perhaps being a portfolio worker does sound like a more mainstream title.  In the same vein it is also becoming popular for employers to take on this new wave of freelancers as not only do they get a more motivated person for the job, but also only need to pay for the actual period of time that they need them, rather than paying for a full time member of staff and all of the costs that they would incur.

So, with portfolio working set to be the buzz word of the decade and a valid career option, should everyone take control of their earning potential and jump off the corporate ship?

Well maybe its not for everyone, but it is an option for many people who are unable to find full time work  and those that want to be more flexible in the hours that they work.  It is a great choice for parents who want to spend more time at home with their children.  Its also a way to make more time for hobbies and adventures.  At the very core of the portfolio worker ethos is the balancing of work and life, with an emphasis on life.  

It seems to me that portfolio working is a lifestyle choice just as much as it is an employment solution.  With flexible hours and more time with the family, it would seems that the Jetsons weren't that far off the mark after all!

Portfolio Working - like freelancing, but way cooler dude ...

Women eat less around men!

Oh my word I absolutely do this …

When you go out to lunch with a group of friends do you tend to eat more or less than you do at home? According to a new study, how much you eat may depend upon who you’re dining with and whether your dining companions are predominantly male or female.

Researchers observed groups of students dining in large cafeterias at various universities. They chose to conduct the experiment only at institutions with large cafeterias so the students would have a variety of food choices, both high and low in calories. After observing many groups of students eating together, they noted that women were more likely to restrict calories when they ate with a male or a group of males. In contrast when they ate with a female or a group of female students they were more likely to throw caution to the wind and choose foods that were less healthy or higher in calories.

According to this study, women are more likely to adapt their food choices and calorie intake based on the gender makeup of the group they’re dining with. How about men? Did men alter their food choices based on the sex of their dining companions? Researchers found that men didn’t restrict calories or alter food choices in any way based on who they ate with. They were fairly consistent in their food choices regardless of the sex of their companions.

Why are women more likely to restrict calories when they eat with men? Researchers believe it has to do with a female’s desire to make a good impression on her male dining companions. Women have the perception that it’s more feminine or lady like to eat lower calorie foods such as salads when they’re eating with a man or a group of men. A woman might also be self-conscious about her weight and not want to give the impression that she’s overindulging or isn’t conscious about her health.

How do men feel about women who restrict calories? While some men may find a woman nibbling on lettuce leaves and carrot sticks to be the ultimate in femininity, others could be put off by such excessive concern about weight. A woman who’s too wrapped up in how many calories she’s eating is unlikely to be adventurous from a culinary standpoint and could make for a pretty boring lover. Believe it or not, there are men out there who prefer a woman with a voracious appetite to one who picks at her food.

Where do you stand on this issue?

A mothers story

Just over a year ago my friend found a lump in her breast and ignored it!  The stress of a full time job and two small children added to thoughts of 'it is just a fatty lump, I'm fine' became excuses for not going to the doctor.  As time went on and the lump became bigger it was fear that stopped her seeking medical attention.  For 6 months she hid both the lump and her fear from her husband and family.  Then she collapsed at work.  By the time a diagnosis was made, life saving treatment was not an option, it was a matter of adding days before the inevitable would happen.  Over the last few months I have watched my friend disappear, regret and sadness consuming her, just as much as the cancer.  I have seen two small children being prepared for the time when their mother would leave them.  I have seen the anger in her husbands eyes, he hated himself for blaming his wife, but she could possibly have prevented this, who knows what the prognosis would have been if she had sought help sooner.  In the end I saw a family come to accept the situation and make the most of every day.  As it happened there were not too many days and two weeks ago she passed away quietly into the night ...

Yesterday two small children buried their mother,  they were so brave.  I don't know what the future holds for them, but I suspect that there will  be a mother shaped hole in every achievement and every happy day.

I have shared this with you as a warning and as a call to action.  Check yourself regularly and go see the doctor the second something seems to be not as it should be.  A doctor would rather see a hundred false alarms if it means that the hundred and first patient is caught in time.  

My friend said before she died;

"as a mother it is my job to protect my children, everyday that I left that lump, I failed them"

http://www.breakthrough.org.uk/

Spring Cleaning your Lifestyle

© Lensara

Spring cleaning is about more than washing windows.  It’s about wiping clean the doldrums of an indoor winter, and preparing for the new beginnings spring has to offer. True fruition requires a balance of health, fitness, and lifestyle—so what better time to refresh your life than spring?  Small changes now can add up to the beautiful, fulfilling, serene spring you’ve always imagined.  Start integrating these small changes into your life today.

1.  Less clutter = less stress

Clutter, or any other signs of disorganisation, can wreak havoc on the mind.  With the warm weather of spring comes a busier, ‘come and go’ type lifestyle.  Set your home up for this freedom by putting in a little effort now.  Assess your closets and other storage areas.  If you haven’t used something in a year, its safe to say you do not really need it and it can either be donated or disposed of.  For all other necessities, invest in storage baskets and bins.  This way, items can be categorised and stored away.  Having a clutter-free, organized space can give your mind the freedom to live life to the fullest.

2.  Spring clean your body

Spring lends itself to a whole new world of nutrition opportunities.  Fresh fruits and vegetables are in season, and appetizing recipes are abundant.  Take advantage of the season while also nourishing your body with real foods.  Cleansing your body of processed foods can give you a fresh feeling for spring.

3.  Act like a child again!

What do children do when the weather gets warm?  They go outside and play of course!  Spring is a great time to rediscover outdoor fun in all its forms.  Garden games at parties and outdoor fun with the children are great ways to stay active and have a great time doing it. 

4.  Feel good

Spring is the ideal time to work towards health and fitness goals.  Whether your goal is to run a 5k or to lose 10 pounds, setting a goal and staying committed is a rewarding experience.  Make sure your goal is attainable and devise a realistic plan that fits your lifestyle. 

5.  Enjoy the moment

Too often we end up worrying our time away.  Remember to enjoy the beautiful, positive aspects of your life—no matter how small—and encourage others to do the same as well.

Top 5 Tips for Staying Productive in the Home Office

Working from home sounds perfect, with no commuting, no uncomfortable shoes and no one breathing down your neck, but working from home does come with its downside.  Distractions!. Here are my tips to remove those pesky distractions;

Remove Visual Clutter

Some people enjoy decorating their home offices with framed photos, memo boards and other decorative items. For someone who has difficulty focusing on work, these items act as distractions. Instead of working on a graphic design project or writing an article, you might find yourself staring at your office décor. Avoid the temptation by removing visual clutter in your workspace. Keep a few basic office supplies on your desk, but resist the temptation to buy coordinated desk sets and other items that will just collect dust and cause distraction.

Time Yourself

Timing yourself on work projects helps determine how much money you really make per hour. If you charge a client £50 for a project and it takes you ten hours to complete it, your hourly rate works out to only £5 per hour. Minimising distractions reduces the amount of time it takes you to complete your work, increasing your hourly rate and giving you more time to do other things. . Use a kitchen timer or online timer program to help you remain focused on your work.

Stay Realistic

You would think that balancing work life with home life is easier for home-based workers and in some respects it is, but managing your time is key to your success.  Do not make the mistake of underestimating how much time you need to complete work projects, especially if you are working around children, add extra time to completion dates.  This will eliminate a lot of last minute stress. Not allowing enough time will lead to missed deadlines and unhappy clients. You will also need to factor in to your weekly work diary plenty of extra time for invoicing, marketing and other day to day business tasks.

Live By Lists

If you have a hard time remembering everything you need to do, create a to-do list for each day of the week. List all of your work obligations and cross them off as you complete them. If you run out of time, move any incomplete tasks to the to-do list for the following day. Avoid complicated computer programs and mobile apps, in my opinion these just fry your brain!  A simple paper to-do list is just as effective, the action of writing and then crossing out tasks is very therapeutic and will help your brain to process your day,  List writing is proven to relieve stress and help those who suffer from restless sleep or insomnia.

Create “Work Only” Space

Staying productive is difficult if you work in a room with a television or other such distraction. Your workspace should only include the items you need to stay productive – a computer, printer, pens and related items. If you don’t have a dedicated home office, pick a quiet corner of the house to set up shop.  Try to find somewhere that you can dedicate to your work, having to pack up and move around the house is not very productive.

Make the transition from a disorganised workspace to a clutter free working environment today!

Put some energy into your day

How many times do you wake up in the morning and instantly know that it is going to be an unproductive day? Many people wake up feeling unrested and unmotivated for the day ahead. Even if you’re not a morning person, there are a few great ways that you can add a little boost to your day (without gallons of coffee!).

Wake Up Earlier

It might seem a little counterintuitive, but waking up earlier is one of the best ways to add a little productivity to your day. Besides the obvious, having an extra hour or two in the morning actually stimulates your brain. Wake up even just a half hour early each weekday morning and spend that extra time doing something that you enjoy or just having an uninterrupted cup of tea. Having this time for yourself will leave you feeling fulfilled the moment you step into the office.

Routine

An important part of getting more done during the day is sticking to a routine. Your body craves routine and rhythm, so it is important that you listen to it. Go to sleep at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. Of course you get a little leeway on the weekends – an hour or two of extra sleep on a Saturday never hurt anybody.

Your routine extends past sleeping though. Having an order in which you get ready in the mornings is also a great way of staying on track for the rest of the day. Your body needs and established schedule and will thank you for one.

Breakfast

You might be busy, but you can’t skip breakfast. Having a small meal in the morning increases your brain productivity and stabilises your moods. Plus, it will help you resist those snacking urges later on. go for a balanced breakfast with protein, whole grains, and a fruit or vegetable. It can be tiring cooking up an extravagant feast every morning, so don’t feel bad if you opt for cereal or toast more times than not. It is more important to just get the food into your system.

Exercise

One of the best ways to get more out of your day is by exercising in the morning. Not only does it make you feel happier, but it also boosts your powers of concentration and creativity. Most people don’t have enough time in the mornings to spend on a full-blown workout, but don’t worry. Moving around a little is what is important. Park a few streets away from work for a quick and refreshing walk to the office. If you work from home, try taking a twenty minute walk with the dog or to the paper shop before you start the day.  

Getting more done during your day isn’t rocket science. It just takes a little know how and willpower. If you wake up earlier, establish a routine, eat a small breakfast, and take a short walk, then you’re well on your way to increasing your productivity and feeling more fulfilled.