Most people go through the motions of life, but they’re clueless about where they’re going. They aren’t even sure what they want in life. The world is full of “sleepwalkers.” […]
The basic ingredients of a personality can be put together to create a full representation of an individual.
How your communication is received is just as important as what you are saying. Understanding your personality will assist you in communicating better.
We all have the capacity to build our interpersonal communication skills. A great mirror for the self is to understand your own personality type, and how you come off to others. Only then can you learn how to interact most effectively with the other personality types.
Why understand your personality type?
Personality type has been studied for thousands of years. Roots of Western personality development begin with Hippocrates (ca. 460 BC – ca. 370 BC) who divided individuals into four groups based on fluid volumes in the body:
Phlegmatic
Melancholic
Sanguine
Choleric
Understanding your personality type will assist you in understanding your motivations, and why others are not always on the same page. The insight into why others act the way they do gives you an edge in all situations.
Personality dimensions
Personality Dimensions is the best personality assessment to begin with, as it divides all people into four different colours:
Inquiring Green
Organized Gold
Authentic Blue
Resourceful Orange
We are all a blend of the four colours; however, we all have a preference that dictates our communication style. These four designations relate to the four used by Hippocrates, but with a modern perspective. Personality Dimensions is completed with an assessment using cards and questionnaire.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) divides the population into sixteen different personality types. These sixteen personality types further expand the four personality dimensions groups into four groups of four, though with different verbiage.
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The indicators used to define type are:
Introversion vs. Extraversion
Intuition vs. Sensing
Thinking vs. Feeling
Perceiving vs. Judging
A fundamental understanding of personality types is beneficial when understanding the MBTI results. A previous assessment in Personality Dimensions is useful if you do not have education in fundamental psychology principles.
Enneagram
The Enneagram is built from another ancient symbolic system. The Enneagram has nine personality types that do not map to Personality Dimensions or MBTI as easily as those two work with each other.
The nine personalities found in the Enneagram are:
The Reformer
The Helper
The Achiever
The Individualist
The Investigator
The Loyalist
The Enthusiast
The Challenger
The Peacemaker.
These nine represent the strengths and challenges of the assessed. For example, The Investigator may be great at solving issues in the office. The downside for this type is that they are always uncovering problems that need to be solved. If The Investigator can not learn to hold back their opinions some of the time, they distance themselves from others.
Once you have a framework
Use the understanding of personality to assess the individuals around you. You will make mistakes to learn from. Look at members of your family and match them to personality types. You may find that it was your lack of understanding of others that caused conflict, and that it was your expectations of others that were the issue. Promote better communication strategies for better communication and relationships.
Where personality models actually help (and where they don’t)
Personality models are best at explaining communication preferences, not competence, values, or intent. They tell you how someone is likely to process information, not why they care or whether they are right.
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A common failure point is using a label as an explanation. “He’s a Thinking type” becomes a reason to tolerate bluntness instead of addressing its impact.
In practice, the useful move is narrower. You notice patterns in how someone asks questions, reacts to detail, or responds under pressure. Then you adjust your delivery.
A communication coach will often slow this process down. Noticing behavior first. Naming preference second. Deciding what to do differently last.
Translating Personality Dimensions into real communication choices
The four Personality Dimensions colors show up most clearly in pace, detail, and framing.
Inquiring Green wants logic first. Data, reasons, trade-offs.
Picture giving feedback at work. A Gold type may shut down if you speak in broad strokes. An Orange type may disengage if you over-specify.
The adjustment is concrete. You change the order of information, not the message itself.
In coaching sessions, this often turns into practice. Same feedback, delivered four ways, until you feel the difference land.
MBTI preferences in live conversations
MBTI preferences are easiest to spot mid-conversation, not on a test result.
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Introversion vs Extraversion shows up in thinking time. Some people need silence before they answer.
Sensing vs Intuition shows up in focus. Details versus patterns.
Thinking vs Feeling shows up in decision language. Logic versus impact.
Judging vs Perceiving shows up in closure. Decisions versus options.
A classic breakdown happens in meetings. An intuitive speaker jumps to the future. A sensing listener is still trying to understand the current facts.
The fix is behavioral. You pause and anchor the idea in something concrete before moving on.
Career and leadership coaches often work on this exact skill. Not changing personality. Changing timing and translation.
When different models describe the same person differently
It’s common for one model to describe someone as analytical and another to describe them as relational. That’s not a contradiction. It’s a difference in lens.
Personality Dimensions highlights communication style. MBTI highlights cognitive preferences. The Enneagram highlights motivation under stress.
So someone might speak logically, prefer structure, and still react emotionally when their core concern is triggered.
The mistake is trying to reconcile the models into a single identity. The useful move is asking which lens explains the current behavior.
Coaches often help clients stop chasing the “right” type and start using the right tool for the situation in front of them.
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Enneagram patterns that drive communication breakdowns
The Enneagram shows up most clearly when communication goes sideways.
An Investigator may flood a conversation with problems without noticing the relational cost. A Challenger may push for clarity and create fear instead. A Peacemaker may agree outwardly and disengage later.
These are not wording problems. They are motivation problems surfacing through communication.
You can hear it in what gets emphasized, avoided, or repeated.
Relationship and leadership coaches often work here. Spotting triggers. Naming patterns. Practicing new responses before the next blow-up.
Predictable breakdowns between common type pairings
Some clashes repeat with boring consistency.
Thinking-oriented speakers may sound cold to Feeling-oriented listeners. Fast-moving Oranges may frustrate methodical Golds. Big-picture Intuitives may overwhelm detail-driven Sensors.
The damage usually comes from misinterpretation. One side hears resistance. The other hears recklessness.
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The fix is expectation management. You stop expecting alignment and start planning translation.
In mediation-style coaching, this often becomes explicit. Who needs what first. Who needs reassurance. Who needs permission to slow down or speed up.
From awareness to skill
Knowing a personality framework changes very little on its own. Behavior changes outcomes.
You notice when you interrupt. You change how you give feedback. You stop assuming silence means agreement.
That’s where coaching earns its keep. Practice, feedback, accountability.
Insight points you in the right direction. Skill is what actually improves communication.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
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Have you ever wondered why you cannot get past life’s barriers that hold you back? Take a look at your belief systems. This does not have anything to do with religion. The belief systems I am talking about is the daily rituals and habits that rule your life. This comes from our map of our world. In other words, how we view…
If we struggle, we have to think about what we are focusing on. For example: there are two different people, one person loses his job.
He looks at it as one door closes so a better one can open. He is positive and looks at it as a positive situation. He focuses on positive solutions and proceeds to act accordingly.. Because of this he finds a better job that pays more. Why? Because he gets what he focuses on.
On the other hand, another person loses a job and feels and acts like a victim. He feels like the world is against him and proceeds to act accordly. He goes into depression, feels sorry for himself and gives up even looking for a job, and spirals down.
What do you think his outcome is? What we focus on is what we get.
Changing your mindset
You may ask well, how can I change what I focus on. It is simple.
Try this, when you start to feel down, think about something you have been able to accomplish that filled your heart with joy. Feel that feeling all over. Be aware of the smile on your face.
Put a great song with that feeling, see a color that makes you feel empowered. Now anchor that feeling with a physical gesture, such as putting your pointing finger and thumb together.
When you feel down. Just take a few minutes and do what I have taught you. Notice the difference in your attitude, physical stance, facial features, mood and feelings.
Yes it is just that simple, and it is effective. Just the way we aquire other habits, from continued doing, doing, doing. We can change our lives with this simple, effective and lasting habit.
Training our brains
I read an article that was very profound. Some scientist followed around s 3 year old children. They heard negative comments and positive comments. The negative comments were 432 comments the positive were 32. Later in life the children were on their way to college. They were asked to list their strengths and weaknesses. Alarmingly enough they pointed out many more weaknesses and character flaws than strengths.
What does this say? In essense we become what we hear, it becomes our map of our world. How do we change this? The exercise I have taught you is the first step. It helps you to reframe your thinking process.
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Just as negative habits can be made by negative enviornments, we can also turn that around to do just the opposite. We can train our brains to adapt positive habits and positive rituals. This will have a profound positive change in your life.
Motivating yourself to change
What does this require? Motivation for change. Self-discipline, and a burning desire for a better life. No one can do it for you. When I work with my clients, I do an free initial consultation. I do that for a few reasons. Number one ultimately is to see if they are committed to change. The second is to see if they will do what it takes, and the third is to set the path for them to be able to move forward. I tell my client’s I am the road map you are the driver. Are you willing to get behind the wheel of life and change to move forward?
I specialize in working with divorced women. We deal with so many emotions all sometimes at the same time, such as:
Confusion
Fear
Anger
Frustration
Anxiety
Overwhelmed
Lonliness
Guilt
If we have children, we end up having more emotions to deal with because you have to think about your children’s emotions as well.
How wonderful would it be to have this emotional tool not only for ourselves, but also to be able to teach our children. If it is a young child make a game of it. It works, it works, it works.
We as women tend to be so engrossed with helping everyone else.
We tend to lose our denity.
When a divorce comes we may feel lose, lose of our husbands, but also loss of ourselves.
We have become everyting for everyone else.
We grieve for not only the loss of our significant other but also the loss of ourselves.
Picking up the peaces can be overwhelming. It does not get any better for a women that is mature. Our entire lives have been structured around family lives. Now the door is closed to not only our careers but also to the structure we had in place.
Building our lives again can be a daunting process. But as I pointed out earlier, it is how we look at it. Getting past emotional barreirs is the first order of business. I teach you how to take control of your emotions again so you can help yourself heal, feel whole again and start to live a fullfilled life. We again attract what we think and put out there. So be aware of what you are thinking and feeling. We govern our lives by what we feel, not only what we think.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
Stacey Giovanni Cox CHt, CC, NLPCht
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
When I first meet with clients, they tend to want to focus on their current state (or the organization’s) and specific challenges. They want to vent. Sometimes venting helps them decompress, but too much venting can result in defeatism and paradigm paralysis. They visualize former failures and predict future ones. They get caught in what Daniel Kahnema calls System 1 thinking: fast, instinctive, and emotional.
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My first goal as a coach is to establish the client’s goal. Seeking a goal creates an active mindset and an optimistic vision for the future. It produces System 2 thinking: slower, more deliberate, and logical.
Questions to Ask when Goal Seeking
What is the ideal future state?
What would you like more of and less of?
What do you want to accomplish?
What does winning look like to you?
What provides you meaning?
What provides you happiness?
Naturally, clients don’t always jump into a super-positive state and stay there. They can slip back into old ruts. They may ask, “Why do I keep getting into these situations?” When they do, I encourage them to reframe the question and ask instead, “How might I accomplish X goal?”
Shifting the question dramatically shifts the answer. It puts the focus on the goal, not the problem.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
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The New Year as a Natural Reset Point
The transition into a new year gives clients a psychological “fresh start effect.” Research shows that temporal milestones—birthdays, Mondays, new months, and especially New Year’s—create a sense of separation between the “old self” and a “clean slate” version of the future self. This is why January feels like such a strong moment for change. People believe they can leave old patterns behind and step into a more intentional identity.
As a coach, I help clients harness this reset without relying on the quick rush of New Year motivation. Instead of saying, “This year will be different,” we translate that energy into clarity: “What do you want this year to stand for?” The New Year becomes a doorway, not a deadline—an entry point into more grounded, sustainable goal-focused thinking.
Reframing the Year Ahead Through a Goal-Focused Lens
A goal-focused New Year isn’t about reinventing yourself; it’s about intentionally choosing what you want to move toward. When clients feel discouraged by past setbacks, I invite them to look at the coming year not as a test, but as a canvas. The question is no longer, “What went wrong last year?” but, “What do I want to create this year?”
This reframe encourages clients to:
Notice strengths they want to build on
Identify the environments, people, and habits that support their goals
Let go of past narratives that no longer match the future they’re working toward
The more they practice this mindset, the more the year ahead becomes a landscape of possibilities rather than a list of pressures. They start approaching challenges with curiosity instead of frustration, and their goals become guiding stars rather than obligations.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
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We often think that a high-stress job equals better pay and job satisfaction. However, that’s rarely true, at least not for everyone. People generally have different stress tolerance, but that doesn’t mean that someone who prefers a low-stress job can’t be successful. There are several high-paying low-stress jobs that won’t make you anxious, and are extremely fulfilling and rewarding!
The trick lies in doing something you enjoy, so the work doesn’t feel like work. If you are doing something you love, you won’t just be successful and make more money, but also have a better work-life balance.
Whether you are an extrovert or an introvert, there is something for everyone with or without a degree. Here are the best low-stress careers that fit different lifestyles and personal goals.
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1. Massage Therapist
Are you someone with magic hands who is the unofficial masseuse of your friend group? Then, being a massage therapist might be the perfect opportunity for you to help other people through their stress and anxiety. It is one of the best no-degree jobs with low stress and an average salary of $71,679 per year.
While you don’t need a degree to become a massage therapist, you’ll have to complete an accredited massage therapy program and pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The entire process takes a year to get certified, and less time if you can spare multiple hours daily.
Once you are a certified massage therapist, you have the freedom to work part-time or full-time. Additionally, you get tips on top of your hourly fee, making it one of the best opportunities for people who enjoy physical, hands-on work!
2. Electrician
Being skilled at household maintenance not only saves money but also pays well. It is hands-on work where you won’t have to deal with meetings or sit at a desk all day long. Being an electrician can be a fun job where you help people with maintenance or lay the electrical work for new construction.
To become an electrician, you will need a high school diploma or GED. Some may even attend trade school, but that is not mandatory. Instead, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program, which will help you learn the necessary skills.
Handymen like electricians can easily make up to $40 per hour, depending on where you live and how good you are at your job! This pay also varies if you are working independently or with a contractor.
3. IT Analyst
The Russian writer Leo Tolstoy once said, “True life is lived when tiny changes occur.” This quote also fits professionally, as sometimes change is the only way to grow. For example, there is more than one way to utilize your years of experience working in the IT sector. Instead of working at a stressful job like a software engineer, you can switch careers and work as an IT analyst.
This works well for someone with a tech background and who likes having a daily routine. Even if you don’t have prior experience, you can still become an IT analyst by completing a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology.
An IT analyst focuses on problem-solving, system maintenance, and improving tech processes instead of sitting on a computer and coding all day. Moreover, you mostly work behind the scenes and won’t have to deal with client pressure or chaos directly. So, if you want low-stress jobs that pay well (approx. $85,868 per year), you might want to consider becoming an IT analyst.
4. Blogger
Some of the best relaxing jobs that make money include creative jobs like blogging. Here, I can say with personal experience that becoming a blogger is one of the best decisions of my life. I love every minute of what I do and have never been as fulfilled. It is a highly flexible job that lets me work according to my own timeline and from the comfort of my home. So, I wouldn’t be wrong when I say that blogging is a great way to follow your passion for writing and build your brand while getting paid for it!
Statistics will tell you that you can make approximately $23 per hour as a blogger. However, this number does not account for different means of getting paid as a blogger. For example, Finsavyy Panda helps me get paid through affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and advertisements. Granted, these methods take time and effort to build, but you will transition from $0 to 6 figures within a year or two if you keep trusting the process.
5. Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist is different from a dentist in many ways. Dental hygienists are not doctors and do not operate on patients. Instead, they clean patients’ teeth, educate them on proper tooth care, and take diagnostic images when needed.
Moreover, you do not necessarily need to work 8 hours a day for 5 days a week to make good money. You can make up to $143,803 yearly by working just 3 to 4 days a week, depending on where you live. That’s because places like San Diego and Lexington have higher hourly wages relative to others like Chicago or New York.
The best part about being a dental hygienist is that you won’t have to deal with many surprises. Dental hygienist work is mostly routine, making it a good choice for individuals who want to work in the healthcare industry without its added stress.
6. Photographer
Photography, like writing, is an art, and it is well-known that art helps reduce stress and anxiety. Just imagine being able to capture countless beautiful moments. Not only that, but you can choose between working alone, with a friend, or with your significant other. It doesn’t get any more stress-free than this.
There are many photography niches for you to choose from. Besides the high-paying niches like wedding photography, you can become a product, portrait, or lifestyle photographer, among others. A photographer typically makes $53,626 a year. However, the actual pay varies depending on your preferred niche and where you live.
7. Virtual Assistant
Working as a virtual assistant is one of the best low-stress remote jobs, where you help busy professionals and businesses with administrative tasks. You are basically working as an assistant to someone without physically going to the office. It is a work-from-home job that includes handling tasks like email management, scheduling, researching, and data entry.
You don’t need any certifications or a specific degree to become a virtual assistant. A simple high school diploma or GED, along with a basic resume, will do the job. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be paid fairly. A virtual assistant makes an average of $27.95 per hour, with areas like New York paying up to $31.91 per hour.
You can further supplement your income by taking two or more clients simultaneously. While it should only take a couple of hours to complete the tasks, you also have the option to take roles tailored to your strengths for better efficiency. For example, if you are a wiz at spreadsheets, data entry tasks will be easier for you.
8. Commercial Pilot (Charters or Cargo)
I know you might be thinking, how on Earth are flying jobs low-stress, right? Well, I am not talking about flying passenger flights, which is a challenge in itself. On the other hand, working as a commercial pilot is much less stressful, as you only fly charter and cargo planes and won’t have to interact with passengers as much.
It should be a simple transition for you if you are already a pilot, as you just need to obtain a commercial pilot license (CPL). However, you will need at least 250 hours of flight time and specific hours as pilot-in-command, in addition to the license, if just starting out. As a commercial pilot, you essentially get paid to travel. Moreover, it is one of the highest-paying jobs on the list, and once you have built up the hours, you can make as much as $200,000 yearly.
9. Librarian
When I picture a library, I am immediately reminded of its calm environment and structured routine. As far as low-stress jobs go, nothing beats being a librarian, as your workplace is meant to be quiet and peaceful.
You are basically making money by reading and recommending books, which you might do anyway if you love reading. Besides that, your job includes simple tasks such as managing archives, holding talks, and overseeing day-to-day operations. A librarian basically works alone, spends their day in a calm environment, and gets paid for it.
10. Landscaper or Groundskeeper
No matter how you look at it, spending your days staring at a screen and handling meetings is stressful. Our minds and bodies need fresh air and sunlight to function properly. This is why working as a landscaper or groundskeeper is one of the best low-stress jobs for someone who loves to be outside.
Not beating around the bush, but as a landscaper, your job includes taking care of the bushes. Besides that, you will maintain lawns, gardens, and outdoor environments for commercial or residential properties.
It can also be a great summer side hustle, where you take a much-needed break from your regular 9-to-5 job. Experimenting with these seasonal gigs will give you the clarity and experience you might need to make a full-time switch. If that wasn’t enough, listen to this – a groundskeeper can make as much as $70,904 yearly in areas like San Diego and Phoenix.
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Thinking about college costs feels a bit like hiking a mountain in flip-flops — awkward, stressful, and probably not your best idea. The average price tag for a four-year degree in the U.S. is around $38,270. That doesn’t even cover your kid’s overpriced campus coffee runs or their daily expenses! It’s rough no matter how you look at it!
It’s no surprise that “how to save for college” comes up almost as often as “Did you even sleep last night?” But here’s the silver lining — saving for your child’s education doesn’t mean winning the lottery or skipping every latte forever.
This guide is packed with realistic college saving tips that even the busiest, most sleep-deprived parents can pull off. I’m talking about things like setting up automatic transfers, making the most of a 529 plan, and turning birthday gift money into future tuition instead of more plastic toys. Start small now, and in the future, you will give yourself a fist bump for it.
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1. Open a 529 College Savings Plan
First and foremost, open a 529 plan for college. Think of a 529 plan as a college piggy bank that grows without the taxman taking a cut. Most states offer their own plans, and some even throw in tax deductions as a bonus.
Plus, even small payments can lead to big savings in these accounts. Skipping just two takeout dinners a month and putting that $125 into a 529 plan could grow to nearly $28,000 by the time your little one’s ready for college tours.
2. Set Up Automatic Transfers to a Savings Account
Setting up automatic transfers after getting your paycheck is like putting your savings on autopilot. By setting aside $40 monthly, the cost of a few coffees, a mom in Florida quietly grew over $8,000 for college without breaking a sweat. Honestly, it’s a simple move that makes saving for your child’s education feel way less like a chore and way more like a smart habit.
3. Ask Family to Contribute to College Funds Instead of Toys
Instead of another toy that’ll end up lost under the couch, why not ask the grandparents and relatives to chip in to your child’s college fund? Suggest a contribution to a 529 plan or savings account for birthdays and holidays.
Like my friend who ditched plastic toys for her nephew Adam and now adds $80 to his college fund every Thanksgiving. It’s a sweet frugal living tip and one that actually grows with your kid, not out of style in six months.
4. Take Advantage of State Incentives and Grants
Some states provide free money (yep, actual free money) to help you save for college. Minnesota’s College Savings Plan rewards consistent monthly deposits with bonus contributions and sweepstakes entries. While a few programs, like Kansas’s K.I.D.S Matching grant program, match your contribution up to the first $600.
These programs vary by state, so it’s worth checking your state’s education savings site. Taking advantage of these incentives is one of the smartest college saving tips most families overlook. No point in leaving free money sitting on the table.
5. Use a Roth IRA (Strategically)
A Roth IRA isn’t just for retirement. It can also be used to cover qualified education expenses without penalties. You can take out the money you’ve put in without paying taxes, which helps when those tuition bills start showing up at your door.
And if college costs don’t eat it up, that money can still be used to pay your mortgage or maybe buy a new Tesla. It’s a flexible way to start investing early and securing your and your child’s future.
6. Earn Cashback with College-Specific Savings Apps
Cashback apps like Upromise turn your everyday spending into college savings without any extra effort. Just link your credit card, and a small chunk of your grocery runs or online shopping gets funneled straight into your 529 plan.
This way, every cereal run turns into a little win for your kid’s college fund. Even your weekly Target runs or late-night Amazon scroll can chip in for your kid’s future behind the scenes.
7. Sell Unused Items and Put the Money in a College Fund
Clearing out clutter is one of the best ways to save for college. Selling old toys, clothes, or gadgets online on Facebook Marketplace or at a garage sale turns forgotten stuff into cash.
A friend of mine sold her kids’ outgrown clothes and games online, earning enough in a weekend to cover a semester’s books. So before you toss that old stuff, sell it and stash the cash for tuition. Bonus points if you win “Most Responsible Parent” at dinner.
8. Take Advantage of Employer Benefits
Many employers often sweeten the deal by helping with your kid’s college savings. Big companies offer 529 plan contributions or financial advice to make saving a bit easier for you.
At Vanderbilt, for example, staff with five years of service get up to 70% off their child’s tuition at Penn or sister schools. Check if your employer offers perks that can quietly grow your child’s college fund while you focus on other things.
9. Cut One Monthly Expense and Redirect It
Cutting one monthly expense can make a bigger difference than you might expect. Even skipping a subscription or cancelling an old membership, and putting that money toward an education savings account.
Swapping that rarely-used $40 gym pass for free YouTube workouts frees up more cash for your kid’s college fund. Cut dining out to once a week, and you’ll stay healthy while your savings quietly grow.
10. Apply for Scholarships Before College Starts
Scholarships aren’t just for high school seniors. Many of these actually start early, so get your kids in the game sooner rather than later. One mom I know signed her son up for a youth soccer league, and by middle school, he snagged a local sports scholarship worth $2,500. Early applications mean more chances at free tuition money and fewer student loan headaches later.
11. Encourage Your Teen to Get a Part-Time Job
Getting a part-time job in high school isn’t just about the extra few bucks every day. It also helps make them smart and build their resume when applying for college. Some employers even help pay for college.
Did you know Starbucks covers up to 100% of tuition for employees earning their first bachelor’s degree online through Arizona State University? It’s like free college perks while you sip and serve a latte.
12. Use Windfalls Wisely
Windfalls, like tax refunds, bonuses, or even stimulus checks, can slip through your fingers faster than sand at the beach.
So, that $2000 bonus check? Instead of blowing it on a giant inflatable pool you’ll use twice, slide it into the college fund.
Plus, putting away just $2000 a year can turn into over $30,000 in 15 years thanks to compound interest. It’s like time and a little math working together in the background while you focus on life’s other chaos.
13. Buy Used Instead of New and Save the Difference
Buying secondhand clothes, toys, and baby gear from places like Facebook Marketplace or thrift stores can save you a lot of money. Instead of splurging on brand-new stuff, put that extra cash right into your kid’s college fund.
Saving $150 on that diaper genie or baby stroller? Toss that $150 into their 529 plan. Plus, secondhand finds mean fewer toys and baby gear ending up in landfills — so your wallet and the planet both win.
14. Start a Side Hustle with a Dedicated College Fund Goal
You can stash extra earnings from a side hustle straight into your child’s college fund without touching your main income.
Maybe you can help with your neighbor’s backyard or sell your grandmother’s special apple pie at the farmer’s market over the weekend. This is probably one of the easiest ways to start a college fund, especially if you enjoy creative gigs.
15. Teach Kids About Money Early
Kids who know how money works are less likely to face plant into student debt later on. Start with simple budgeting and saving lessons. Teaching them about compound interest makes saving feel less like a lecture and more like a cheat code for life.
After all, a teen who gets saving early is more likely to chase scholarships, avoid loans, and save money while still in school.
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Like many kids in the 90s, I collected Sailor Moon cards growing up. You know, the ones from Bandai or Amada that were made in Japan. Amada pull-pack sets were especially popular in Japan and were not easy to find here, but my relatives would visit overseas and bring back packs for me as a kid who was completely obsessed.
I even had the unofficial prism cards that kids would go crazy over because of how sparkly they were. Of course, in this post, we will not be covering vintage unofficial cards, as that would defeat the purpose of discussing value. That said, I was surprised to learn that there is still a market for them, and I have seen sold listings where they fetch nearly as much as official cards, although not as often or as quickly.
For years, I never thought twice about anime trading cards. It was not until more recent reprints started appearing that I realized some original versions now sell for far more than I ever expected. No, the special Sailor Moon cards may not reach the shocking prices of a late 90s 1st Edition Charizard Pokémon card in pristine condition, but collecting first edition or specific special prism Sailor Moon cards today is no small expense, especially if you want them third-party graded.
When I tried to complete my childhood set, I quickly realized how much money I would likely have to spend on what had become a very expensive hobby. Geez, thanks for not being able to resist wanting vintage collectibles, which would cost you a fortune! That curiosity led me to better understand how value works in collectibles and why many people unknowingly sit on assets. In this world, collectibles like these can be viewed as alternative assets, depending on rarity and condition.
With that said, I wanted to put together a small list of some of my favorite Sailor Moon cards from the 90s. While these cards may sell in part due to nostalgia, their rarity, artwork, and the way collectors value them today often push prices beyond simple sentimental appeal.
These cards are absolutely stunning, and there are different reasons they carry different values, from print runs and finishes to condition and long-term demand, as long as the franchise continues to exist and keep consumers engaged with Sailor Moon merchandise.
Remember, I cannot cover the most valuable cards in one post, since there are thousands of Sailor Moon cards spanning the classic series through R, S, SuperS, and Stars. These are simply examples from some special sets. The cards below are listed in no particular order, although the first cards listed are mostly from Amada due to their high popularity.
More articles on vintage collectibles:
1. Sailor Moon Amada Card Part 1 No. 1
If you are going to get only one Sailor Moon card, then this is it. As a minimalist who still wants to own something from that time, all you need is this timeless classic card with her signature pose. It is one of the first prism cards made by Amada, and it is No. 1, meaning the first card from Part 1, Series One, and one of the most highly sought-after cards.
2. Queen Beryl Amada Card Part 1 No. 5
Perhaps you are a villain lover and only seek villain cards, then you know this Queen Beryl prism is the one and only.
Even if you are not one who prefers villains but you are a true collector, you will know everyone wants this stunning Queen Beryl card with the beautifully shiny gold prism. Very rare, especially when you are trying to get one in purely mint condition in a PSA slab.
Your investment will not go wrong because she is the first and most classic villain of the 90s.
3. Three Guardians Bandai Hondan Series Card Part 1 No. 20
We all know prism cards can be expensive, and this iconic image of Ami, Rei, and Usagi, or Amy, Ray, and Serena if you grew up in America, also exists as a prism version by Banpresto. But most collectors do not want to spend that much since the price tag can be shocking, so this non-prism version by Bandai is the perfect alternative.
It is still highly rare because it is one of the first cards ever made, and while not the cheapest, it is far more attainable and quite hard to find today.
4. Sailor Moon Amada Card Part 1 No. 43
This Amada card is another true classic. In my opinion, it is the second card you will want to own if you are only going after a few top chase cards.
While it is not cheap, it is usually more affordable than the No. 1 prism if you can find one. If not, and you are like most collectors, you will pay a pretty penny for a 10/10 mint copy. Either way, you cannot go wrong with this card that captures her iconic Season 1 look.
5. Sailor Mercury WGL-3 Prism Card
WGL prism cards are part of the Sailor Moon Hero Collection series, and this stunning gold prism is pure eye candy.
For Mercury fans, this is the card you will want after owning the No. 2 Classic from the regular Amada pull pack series. This WGL-3 card, especially when third-party graded, is a strong long-term investment for any true Sailor Moon fan.
6. Sailor Moon Amada Card Part 2 No. 49
Cute and classy, this early prism card showing Sailor Moon in both her hero and civilian form is something any fan will want.
It is not that easy to find anymore espeically one in excellent condition. It feels like one of those cards that should be common but has quietly become frustratingly hard to track down, especially at a fair price, which is often a sign of rising demand. If you come across one, it is worth grabbing. There is also a rarer version in a different prism style, and its price tag is quite shocking.
7. Sailor Moon, Mercury, and Mars Banpresto Card No. 1
Any serious Sailor Moon card collector will have this card on their No. 1 list. It is super rare and hard to come by, and it is not often seen on the market anymore. Even copies in less-than-perfect condition can command a pretty penny, so a 10/10 professionally graded example can reach an impressive price.
As mentioned earlier, it is also worth owning this card in the Bandai or Amada non-prism version. This particular image is highly sought after for its early, retro classic look. Pure beauty.
8. Sailor Team Amada Card Part 10 No. 472
This prism card from the Sailor Moon S series is truly beautiful to look at. Just the artwork itself explains why it has become rarer and commands a higher price tag. It is likely most people’s favorite Sailor team card, featuring nearly all of the Sailor Senshi together, minus Saturn.
If Saturn were included, prices would likely be even higher, for good reason, since Saturn is one of the rarest and most highly sought-after characters.
9. Super Sailor Moon Amada Special Gold Card Part 13 No. 641
Amada came out with other gold cards that are breathtakingly beautiful for the Sailor Moon R series, but this one is different. There are three cards in this specific Sailor Moon SuperS set, and it is likely one of the most sought-after gold cards in the Sailor Moon collecting world.
If you have money to splurge, this is the only gold card I recommend buying. You would be lucky to come across one in any condition at all, especially at a price between $600 and $1,000+.
10. Sailor Jupiter Amada Card Part 13 No. 602
It is difficult to come by Amada pull pack cards from Part 13, prism or not. They are highly valuable and everyone wants a piece of them.
This Super Sailor Jupiter is no exception, and any true Jupiter fan will already have this piece in their collection. If you do not yet, it is one you will want to track down. Add this to your collection and you will cherish it for years to come.
11. PallaPalla Amada Card Part 14 No. 667
Part 13 is hard to come by, but Part 14 is even harder due to the lower print runs when Sailor Moon SuperS came out.
For those not familiar, PallaPalla is one of the main villains from the Amazoness Quartet, but later they are meant to become Chibi Moon’s friends, much like Rei, Ami, Minako, and Makoto are to Usagi.
The Amazoness Quartet are some of the most highly sought-after villains, often equal to or even more desirable than Queen Beryl, so adding these villains to your collection is a decision you will not regret.
12. Sailor Moon Amada Card Part 14A No. 644
All I have to say is that everyone wants this Super Sailor Moon card from the SuperS series, but many hesitate to pay because they think it is just a piece of paper with foil. That is wrong, because this is one of the hardest prisms to get from Part 14, right after Jupiter, making it one of the true chase cards of the set.
You will see raw copies selling for $250 or more even when they are not in pristine condition, so a professionally graded example with a high grade on eBay can easily ask for $800 or more.
13. Sailor Jupiter Amada Card Part 14A No. 647
Similar in price to the Sailor Moon SuperS card above, this Jupiter is another gem. You might get lucky and be able to add it to your collection one day if you come across someone letting it go for under market value. I was personally able to get mine for $20 (got lucky), but that was several years ago, and I hardly ever see them pop up anymore. Expect a price tag similar to card number 644.
14. Ami Mizuno (Sailor Mercury) Amada Card Part 14A No. 671
This card is unbelievably cute and loved by Sailor Moon fans whether Mercury is their favorite or not. It is one of those cards everyone seems to want, maybe because you almost never see it and there is something so charming about the expression on her face. With her glasses and soft look, it stands out as extra special.
This scene comes from one of Sailor Mercury’s short stories rather than the main series, which makes it even more unique.
15. Makoto Kino (Sailor Jupiter) Amada Platnium Card Part 14A No. 690
These platinum cards from Part 14 are highly sought after, and it is not hard to see why since they look so beautiful and shiny with their platinum foil.
Similar to their silver cards from R and S series, the ones from the SuperS series command even more money. This Jupiter card is especially unique because the scene is very specific and not commonly seen, showing her in a red cropped top with blue 90s jeans. So retro and beautiful from the 90s.
Sailor Stars was the last season of Sailor Moon and introduced new Guardians, the Sailor Starlights, which today command high price tags, especially Seiya, also known as Sailor Star Fighter, along with his two friends.
This card shows Sailor Moon with wings as Eternal Sailor Moon. Any card from the Sailor Stars season is expected to be expensive due to limited print runs, and they are now much harder to find for a reasonable price, especially Card No. 694.
All that needs to be said is beautiful. The image speaks for itself.
Speaking of the Sailor Stars season, this Sailor Saturn card is likely one of the most sought-after gems.
To be honest, it is not that hard to find, but the high prices make it difficult to afford one. Still, it is absolutely worth it if you want to invest in a piece that will remain a treasure.
Saturn is simply one of those characters collectors can never get enough of, whether she is Mistress 9 or in her full Sailor Guardian form.
Since we are on the topic of Saturn, you might want something a little more budget friendly, so this rare non-prism Card No. 728 is a great choice. You cannot help but stare into her deep blue, gazing eyes, so gorgeous that they almost pull you right into the artwork.
19. Sailor Starlights Amada Card Part 15 No. 746
Here come the Sailor Starlights, with Seiya taking the stage like he always does. These three truly became the stars of the show and gained massive popularity, especially with fans who could not help but fall for Seiya’s charm, especially in his male civilian form. It is no wonder cards featuring them command the prices they do.
Sure, there may always be debate about whether Usagi should be with Seiya or Mamoru, but their impact on the Sailor Moon universe and collector demand is undeniable.
Growing up in the 90s, you might be more familiar with regular-sized trading cards made by Bandai, Amada, and other manufacturers, but jumbo cards were also a thing back then. They can be harder to collect because of their large size and the challenge of displaying them, but framing them creates an amazing wow factor.
Certain jumbo cards like these from Banpresto in the SuperS series are extremely hard to come by, and when they do appear, it is no surprise that they sell for $60+ (usually listed for $100+) per card, making the full set quite pricey. If you ever spot one, do not hesitate to grab it.
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While owning a car is helpful in many ways, the endless gas and maintenance costs can be a pain in the butt! What if I told you that it is possible to make money online without ever needing a car?
Thanks to the internet, working from home has become the norm, mutually helping companies and employees utilize global resources! Today, more and more companies accept work-from-home models and even pay for utilities like electricity and Wifi. Plus, working from home lets you pursue a side hustle while having a full-time job.
Did you know about 40% of Americans have a side hustle to help supplement their primary income? This will help pay for your car or a dream vacation to Europe, apart from the daily expenses!
If you are looking for ways to make money without a car, you have come to the right place. From monetizing your hobbies to work-from-home side hustles, there are plenty of ways for you to make extra money, without needing a car!
PIN THIS: I’ll be updating this post so make sure to pin this image here and save it to your Pinterest board. That way you’ll be able to come back to this page and learn how to make money without a car!
1. Become a Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants (VA) are administrative professionals who help business owners or busy professionals with day-to-day tasks. It is a flexible gig where you use your administrative and organizational skills to make money. From entry-level assignments like inbox management, calendar scheduling, or document formatting to specialized tasks like booking appointments and managing interviews, a VA does it all. Essentially, you will be doing the work of a personal assistant without having to go to an office and still make $20-40 an hour!
The best part about becoming a virtual assistant is that you don’t need any prior experience to get these gigs. All you need is a simple one-page resume with your skills and educational background that Canva can help you make. Once you have the resume, apply for VA jobs at Fiverr, Upwork, and Indeed. Besides that, companies like BELAY, Time, etc., or Zirtual often hire assistants for work-from-home jobs.
2. Start a Profitable Blog
A writer can earn their bread and butter in many ways, like publishing e-books, writing for brands, or even freelancing. However, nothing beats the satisfaction of starting your own blog and writing about things you are passionate about. A personal blog gives you complete control of what you write, how you write, and when you write. What else could a writer want, right? Well, money certainly helps, and starting a blog could help you earn money through the trifecta of sponsorships, ad revenue, and affiliate marketing.
I should know what I am talking about, considering Finsavyy Panda is my primary source of income. It helps me live the life I want while doing what I am passionate about – helping people save, budget, and earn more!
Lastly, it also helps to leverage resources like Google Trends to figure out the most profitable niche for your blog.
3. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
If you are an outdoorsy person who loves spending time with furry friends, pet sitting or dog walking might be the perfect side gig. As a dog walker, you will take the adorable canines out for a walk or to the park for a few hours a day and get paid. On the contrary, pet sitting asks for more commitment as it is more like babysitting. You will be taking care of the pet for specified hours, feeding them, and cleaning up after them.
Rover and Wag! are some of the best money-making apps to get pet-sitting and dog-walking gigs. Besides these dog-walking apps, you can print flyers and post them at local vet offices, groomers, and community boards within walking distance. Additionally, quoting low prices initially and offering first-time discounts to get reviews will help you attract new clients and retain the old ones. Once you have bagged a few reviews and have regular gigs, raise your rates to meet the market standards (up to $32 per hour).
4. Flip Items Online
Flipping is not just about buying new things for cheap and selling them for a profit. You can even sell refurbished or used items like furniture or clothes. Items like underpriced books, small collectibles, vintage toys, and limited-edition shoes, are some of the most profitable items to flip. These things can be easily found in your local thrift and pawn stores within walking distance. Apart from that, don’t forget to search your home, which, incidentally, is also a great way to make some extra closet space!
There are multiple ways to flip items and make money in one day. For example, eBay is one of the most commonly used online platforms for flipping. It can also help you determine your potential profit margin for flipping an item by checking the listings from other sellers. Lastly, you can ship orders leveraging UPS for home pickups or just walk to a drop-off box near you.
5. Sell Your Photos Online
The best thing about side hustles is that they don’t need to be technical. You have the option to leverage your creative side and make money from hobbies like photography.
Selling your photos online is a great way to earn passive income while you work your regular job. You can even make your living as a photographer and earn side-by-side from selling stock photos on sites like Adobe Stock, Shutterstock, and EyeEm.
Stock photography is the process of shooting generic themes like food, work-from-home scenes, or flat lays that different businesses can use commercially. For example, many restaurants and food-delivery apps use stock food photos in their menu. To separate yourself from the crowd and improve your sales, sell your photos simultaneously on different stock image marketplaces, shoot for multiple niches, and upload high-quality images.
6. Take Paid Online Surveys & Research Studies
Participating in online surveys and research studies is one of the easiest ways to supplement your income. However, to make sure you don’t get caught in a “get rich quick” scheme, you should only sign up on a few legit survey sites like Swagbucks, Prolific, and Respondent.io.
The pay varies from platform to platform, with easy-level platforms like Swagbucks paying up to $5 a survey, with a signing bonus of $5 to $10. Although, some surveys, like in-home product surveys, can pay up to $100. An important thing to note here is that some sites pay gift cards instead of cash, while others are willing to compensate you via PayPal.
Taking surveys is not a full-time gig. However, it can be treated as a side income source, as it only takes a few minutes to complete a survey. Set a timer and complete the survey while watching TV or listening to music, and earn a few bucks! Lastly, using a dedicated email for survey sign-ups will help simplify things, keep your inbox clear, and make sure you don’t miss invites.
7. Become a Food Bike Courier
I know I said you don’t need a car for these side gigs, but a bike is not a car! So it’s not technically cheating if you use your bike to deliver food with Uber Eats, DoorDash, or GrubHub. When joining these side hustle apps, the only thing you need to do differently is select “bike” as your delivery method instead of a car.
Not having a bike might work in your favor as you can rent an e-bike hourly or even monthly and avoid gas costs altogether. To maximize your earnings, deliver food during lunch and dinner peaks and stick to a walkable or bikeable zone close to home. Initially, you can invest a bit as you need an insulated backpack and bungee cords to keep the food warm, fresh, and safe. Keeping food fresh and warm is a non-negotiable, as it directly affects your delivery partner ratings and tips!
8. Manage Social Media for Local Businesses
I wish someone told me sooner that I could get paid for spending hours and hours on social media! Managing social media for local businesses is a great side income or even a full-time work-from-home opportunity that needs just a laptop.
It is a flexible opportunity that you can approach in many ways, like joining an advertising company or working freelance for local businesses. Local businesses present a unique opportunity as they don’t generally have the awareness or bandwidth to post often on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
Offering monthly content packages such as Instagram posts + basic engagement + bio/profile refresh for $150 to $400 a month will help get clients quicker. Apart from that, leverage free resources like Canva for graphics and Meta Business Suite to schedule posts and manage multiple clients together.
9. Sell Digital Products on Etsy
Maybe you are a skilled artist who is looking for ways to make money through digital art. In that case, why not sell digital products on Etsy? Etsy is the go-to site for artisans and is a name synonymous with arts and crafts. However, it also has a big market for digital products like budget planners, meal trackers, wall art, logos, and templates.
As Etsy is a popular marketplace, one can right assume that it would be highly competitive. There are different strategies that will help you separate yourself from the competition, such as pricing your products at $2.99 – $9.99 and adding keyword-rich product descriptions. The price will help attract impulsive shoppers, while the description will improve the reach of your listings. Another way to promote your listing is to use Pinterest by making your own pins in Canva and using Tailwind or manual pinning for views.
10. Offer Online Tutoring
Online tutoring is different from conventional teaching in many ways. To start with, you generally need a teaching license or equivalent degree to teach in traditional institutes. However, beginner-friendly platforms like Preply, Wyzant, and Cambly don’t ask for a license or certification from their teachers, for most subjects. Additionally, besides educational subjects, you can teach a language, creative skill like cooking, or even a musical instrument.
However, subjects like algebra, SAT prep, ESL, and college essay writing have a steady traffic and generally pay better. Leverage Facebook groups like Online Tutors USA and subreddits like r/teaching to get students and market your services.
Tutoring online is, for good reasons, one of the best side hustle jobs without a car, where you can make $1,000 a week or more. There are many ways to make money as an online tutor, apart from teaching directly. For example, you can pre-record your sessions and sell them on Udemy or Skillshare to generate regular passive income.
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In a world where we’re all experiencing the rising cost of living, learning how to live cheaply has never been so important. Today, the goal isn’t to make it rain with cash, but to just make it drizzle without sacrificing your lifestyle!
What if I told you this is possible AND easy to do? It all boils down to learning how to spend smarter, not save harder.
Whether you’re saving for the future, paying off debt, or just making ends meet, simple hacks like smart grocery shopping and easy swaps can help you live well while spending less.
PIN THIS: I’ll be updating this post so make sure to pin this image here and save it to your Pinterest board. That way you’ll be able to come back to this page for the best ways to live cheaply!
1. Cancel Unused Subscriptions
It’s time to review your monthly subscriptions! Some of what you’re subscribed to are things you should stop buying to save money, since you might not be using them at all.
Let’s say you canceled your monthly gym and streaming app subscription worth $15 each. That saves you $360 a year!
2. Plan Meals Around Sales
We all want to save money on groceries. After all, it’s one of the biggest household expenses! One way to do this is to plan your meals around sale items, taking advantage of weekly flyers and discount apps.
For example, if chicken is discounted for the week, create meals like enchiladas, buffalo wings, or the trending Marry Me Chicken!
3. Buy Secondhand First
Before you head to the mall to go shopping, a top frugal living tip is to consider secondhand!
Visit thrift stores, garage sales, or check platforms like Facebook Marketplace to compare prices. You’ll be surprised that you can get up to 70-90% off retail prices when investing in gently used clothes, kitchen appliances, or even furniture.
4. Learn Basic DIY Fixes
It might seem quick and convenient to avail of repair services, but those fees add up! One way to save money is to roll your sleeves up and go DIY!
Minor repairs like fixing buttons, sealing leaky faucets, or patching holes from a torn curtain can be done yourself. All it takes is a bit of time and a good YouTube video.
5. Use the Library Creatively
You might think the library is solely for students, but did you know that there are many things to take advantage of? It’s a plethora of cheap lifestyle hacks that can help you save money.
The library is more than just borrowing books! It’s also possible to rent movies, audiobooks, tools, or even get museum passes and online courses for free!
6. Drive Less or Use Public Transit
Beat the skyrocketing gas prices and cut back on driving! Better yet, try to practice extreme frugality and start using public transit whenever you need to.
Not only do you save on gas, but insurance, repair, and maintenance costs as well. Plus, you beat traffic if you choose to walk, bike, or commute.
7. Buy Store Brands
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that name brands offer more quality than their generic counterparts. That is not the case!
There are tons of generic items to buy, like cereal, cleaning supplies, and even medicine! All of these usually match name brands without the hefty price tag. In fact, choosing generic brands can cut your grocery bills by 25% or more!
8. Cook in Bulk and Freeze Extras
Here’s another way to save money every month when it comes to your food! Stop the pricey food deliveries and takeouts by stepping into the world of meal prep.
Always cook your food in bulk so you can freeze leftovers for the times you feel lazy to whip something up. Dishes like stew, pasta, or chili are perfect for ready-to-go meals for busy days.
9. Choose Low-Cost Hobbies
An effective frugal living tip for seniors is to choose low-cost hobbies like gardening, walking, knitting, or library book clubs.
This hack is also great for any age! There are tons of almost-free hobbies to pick up, like hiking, journaling, DIY crafts, and more. All these cost far less than concerts or food trips outside the house.
10. Downsize Living Space or Share Housing
Another huge living expense is your home itself. If you’re living on a tight budget, it may be worth downsizing or sharing your living space.
For instance, if you choose to rent a room instead of a full apartment, you get to save about $700 a month, or even more!
11. Use Cashback and Rebate Apps
Make your spending work for you with cashback and rebate apps like Rakuten, Fetch, and Ibotta. Platforms like these offer cashback when you make online purchases or online shopping.
If you strategize your use of cashback apps, it’s possible to earn up to $20 a month without changing your shopping habits. It’s an excellent budgeting hack I swear by!
12. Make Coffee at Home
Starbucks? We’ve got Starbucks at home! Replace your caffeine fix from your local cafe with homemade coffee.
Sure, a French press or drip machine looks intimidating at first, but it’s so easy to use and gets you the same quality of coffee. Think of it this way: If you skip your daily $5 coffee, you can save almost $2,000 a year!
13. Cancel the Gym Membership
Did you know that gym memberships are one of the things frugal people never spend on? That’s because it’s possible to stay fit and healthy at home! YouTube and workout apps like Nike Training Club offer free bodyweight workouts.
You can save almost $500 a year if you skip that $40/month gym membership.
14. Trade Services
This is one of the smartest budget living ideas I highly recommend. Instead of paying in dollars, pay in skills!
Ask your family, friends, or neighbors if they’re willing to trade services, like an hour of dog-walking for tutoring kids, or lawn care in exchange for house cleaning!
15. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Does washing clothes in cold water even do anything for frugal living?
Yes, it does! This tiny hack can save you about $60 a year on energy bills. Cold water is gentler on fabrics and extends the life of your clothes, so you won’t have to keep shopping for new tees!
16. Use Freecycle or Buy Nothing Groups
I just found out about this frugal living tip and it’s genius! Be on the lookout on your local community boards or join online Freecycle groups. You’ll be surprised with the many things you can get.
Some of your neighbors might be giving away gently used airfryers, sports equipment, clothes or even furniture!
17. Negotiate Bills and Insurance Annually
Did you know you can negotiate your phone and car insurance bills? If rates go up, call and ask about current promotions or switch to a cheaper plan that still meets your needs!
A simple 10-minute call might have you save up to $50 a month on your upcoming insurance or internet bill!
18. Create a “No-Spend” Challenge Each Month
We all love treating ourselves during our days off.
But why not try doing one no-spend weekend a month? This little hack can easily save you about $100!
No-spend weekends means cooking at home, checking out free activities from your local community, and no online shopping!
19. Turn Down the Water Heater Temperature
I’m not telling you to suffer and take ice cold baths! But did you know turning down your water heater by just a notch can reduce your energy usage? It won’t make a huge difference either!
Try to turn your water heater down to 120°F instead of the default 140°F. You save up to $60 a year on heating costs!
20. Volunteer at Events for Free Admission
Do you want front-row fun without the full-price ticket? Volunteer for events like music festivals, local conferences, and community fairs. For just a few hours of light work, you’ll be able to enjoy events without spending a dime. A huge bonus is that you might get free meals and drinks out of it, too!
This process hurts, but if accepted, it serves to improve the quality and suitability of the people in your life.
2. Your diet is not just what you eat
As you get older you realise that your diet is not just what you eat, it is also what you watch, what you read, who you follow and who you spend your time with.
So if your goal is to have a healthier mind, you have to start by removing all the junk from your diet.
3. Walk Away
Walk away from people who put you down. Walk away from fights that will never be resolved.
Walk away from trying to please people who will never see your worth.
The more you walk away from things that poison your soul, the healthier you will be.
4. Surround yourself with people smarter than you
Build connections
Smart people make you smarter. They make you better. They spark interest and introduce you to new:
Ideas
People
Places
Culture
Concepts
You are as strong as your network. Set 100 mintues a day to learn social skills to help you connect.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
Success requires good network to help you level up. They will help you grow in all aspects of life.
5. You have to let people down to be happy
You and your mental health are more important than your career, more money, other people’s opinions, that event you said you would attend, your partner’s mood and your family’s wishes.
If taking care of yourself means letting someone down, then let someone down.
Marry a team player to help you grow not a soulmate who will make you suffer.
7. Never let rejection lead to self-rejection
A person who has experienced rejection fears rejection, and a person that fears rejection tends to push or run away before they can be rejected.
In their subconscious mind they have avoided rejection. In reality, they have been rejected again – this time by themselves.
Take more risks as you will either win or you will learn from the situation.
It is a real-life hack and will put you ahead in life.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
8. Own your responsibilities, own your future
You’re not responsibile for your trauma but you are responsible for breaking the cycle and not hurting more people because of what happened to you.
You will never control your future if you let your present be controlled by your past.
What happened yesterday may not be your responsibility, but how you behave today is.
9. Quality over quantity
Life is about quality, not quantity.
One quality friend gives you more than 100 acquaintances.
One quality relationship gives you more than 100 flings.
One quality experience gives you more than 100 drunken nights.
10. Fairytales will make you unhappy
Obsessing over the things that society said you are supposed to do will kill your happiness.
Don’t listen to the fake fairytales of how your life is supposed to be going.
You don’t have to go to university at 18, or get a job at 21, or buy a house at 25, or get married at 30, or have kids at 35.
Do not get distracted by :
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
Negative thoughts
“The next best thing
Other people’s opinions
Most importantly, do not let social media make you insecure.
People are not out there having fun all day The FOMO is an illusion. Most people spend 8 hours at work, 2 hours commuting, and 1 hour getting ready for work. EVERYDAY. There is no big party going on. DO NOT LET THEM FOOL YOU.
FInd your true purpose and mission in life. This will help you live life to the fullest and achieve your goals.
11. Fun is yours
If you want to enjoy your life, don’t subscribe to other people’s definition of “fun”.
Fun doesn’t have to mean drinking, partying and socialising.
Fun can be a night in alone, getting lost in a book, a deep conversation, a walk, creating art, playing music, or doing work that you love.
Your fun belongs to you, make sure you define it.
Everyone is different, and your path to happiness will be too.
12. Respond, but do not react
True power is sitting back and observing things with logic.
True power is restraint.
You will continue to suffer if you have an emotional reaction to everything that is said to you.
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
If words control you that means everyone else can control you. Breathe and allow things to pass.
13. Everybody is an addict
Some people are addicted to junk food, watching TV, sleeping in, social media and their bad habits in general which give them temporary happiness but never fulfillment.
Others are addicted to learning, exercising, pushing themselves, creating, planning and the high they get from the achievement and productivity which lead to fulfillment.
Which addiction you will choose?
If you like this article, book your FIRST FREE session today with me and be your best version to conquer the world.
Neha Uniyal Joshi Life coach
If you want to get more from your life, and are looking for concrete action steps to get you there, check out our Request a Coach page. It’s a “cut the fence-sitting and take action” way to tackle your issues and actually find success.
To get off the fence and start to take action, click or tap here.
