blogging Archives - Whitney Nic James

Personal Style | #ThatBlogLife + Wearing Black and White

December 15, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

This t-shirt and these photos make me chuckle for two reasons – (1) I’m usually wearing black and white “in real life” and (2) 9 times out of 10 I’m doing something on my phone or iPad for WNJ, a social media client or for Fearless Woman, I am. I’ll admit that I have gotten better about checking my phone every few minutes, however most days between 9-5 I’m working on something. I guess it’s safe to say that I am indeed about #thatbloglife.

T-Shirt: That Blog Life (Purchase Here) // Sweat Pants: (Another Option) // Cardigan: Jessica Simpson, Macy’s (Another Option) // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Plain Black Option)

Wearing black and white along with a cute and clever t-shirt is stylish, for sure. And although #thatbloglife is a cute and catchy phrase, some may wonder what being about #thatbloglife really means. For me, it means 3 things.

1. Being productive, not busy. | For awhile I had this concept all wrong. I was constantly “busy” thinking about what to share next, talking about my next move for the blog/brand and joining any and every blog related Facebook group or chat. Now my mindset has shifted and I understand the difference between being busy vs being productive. I’m now busy being productive. I don’t just think or talk about what’s next; I make an Action Plan and get it done. I join and participate in groups and chats that are useful and aligned with my purpose.

Blogging is the perfect platform to share your passion(s) and fulfill your purpose. #wnjinspired

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2. Being committed to fulfilling your purpose through sharing useful and uplifting content. | Earlier this year, I made a commitment (to myself) to fulfill my purpose through blogging. I’ve always had a passion for writing and helping others, but I’ve learned how to infuse passion and purpose in order to make an impact. Some may think you can’t for fill your purpose through blogging, but I beg to differ. Blogging is the perfect platform to share your passion(s) with the world while fulfilling your purpose and uplifting others.

3. Being committed to serve an audience. | Serving an audience goes hand-in-hand with my purpose. It’s very important (to me) that I’m serving my readers while fulfilling my purpose. I want to show and share content that inspires and interests you and every time I’m able to do that, my heart is full.

Earrings: Thrifted // Clutch: Fly By Night Boutique // Bar Necklace: oNecklace (Purchase Here – 10% OFF)

So tell me, what does being about #thatbloglife mean to you? Are you a fan of wearing black and white outfits “in real life” too? Let me know!

I must give a shout out to my web designer Kim (Her Name is Kim) for creating these amazing t-shirts. The fit is so accurate and the material is soft and moves with you. I love that! For the first time I was able to order a plus size tee in my size that actually fit! #WINNING Also, being able to style an item that embodies my lifestyle is a major plus. Be sure to visit That Blog Life and grab yours! There are several goodies to pick from. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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5 Takeaways from Blogalicious 2015 | P.S. You Should Have Been There

September 19, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

Last weekend I was at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront for the 2015 Blogalicious Conference. Believe it or not, I’m still on cloud 9 from meeting all the lovely, kind and helpful fellow bloggers/creatives. The conference, themed Build Your Own Empire (#BYOE15), was once again life changing and re-confirming.

This is my 2nd year attending and of course I had to be in the number. After all the event was held in my hometown, Baltimore! I can go on and on talking about how the meals/snacks were DELICIOUS and plentiful, or how hanging with Vivi, Deanna, Nae, Dionna and our other #DMV BLM Girls was EVERYTHING, but instead I’ll share 5 takeaway from #BYOE15. There’s also a short video below with a few highlights.

1. Live with Intention & Be Consistent. Mattie James, thee Live the Life you Love advocate behind Mattieologie, stressed importance of building a legacy and staying consistent. In life we should all strive to make a living doing what you love, while remaining consistent and intentional about serving others. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Mattie session and appreciated her message, which was perfectly tailored for future creative entrepreneurs like myself.

2. Don’t Be Boring. Blogging colorfully is what keeps your readers coming back for more. Ty Alexander, known to most as the lovely Gorgeous in Grey, was on point with her Create Colorful Content session. It was actually the first one I signed up for. Oiginal content, strong headlines, and writing short and to the point content is where it’s at! (That’s something I’m working on, LOL). One thing that stuck out the most was to write something every day. You have to practice your craft daily if you want to become an expert. There’s simply no way around it.

Here’s why you should’ve been at this years @beblogalicious conference! #BYOE15

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3. Pitch, Pray & Do the Work. I’ve followed and watched Nicole Walters, the #MonetizeThyself and “Pitch & Pray” Queen, around the Internet for months. She has grown into an incredible force to be reckoned with! Simply put, the girl knows her stuff. She’s passionate about teaching others how to monetize their lives and the tips she provided were extremely helpful. The main takeaways from her session were (1) act like a business, (2) live in the state of expectancy, and (3) strive to make face-to-face connections with key influencers.

4. Diversify Your Coins. For most people the ultimate goal is to make a living doing something you love, while making coins along the way. But who says there’s only one way to make money? Arsha Jones of Tees in the Trap gave exceptional tips on how to diversify your income. We should all have multiple streams of income. A few things to remember; (1) follow your passion, (2) define and know your audience, and (3) leverage up and collaborate with like-minded influencers in your niche.

5. Strive to be Credible. If you’re not credible and your reputation is questionable, it’s going to be tough to build a reliable brand! Blogging veteran Marie Denee (The Curvy Fashionista) delivered a great message on reputations, relationships, and returns. Building a credible online reputation takes time, but it is possible. Marie reminded us to separate the personal from the professional, build a tribe, and don’t focus on “what’s in it for me” (WIIFM). Lastly, always be willing to give more than you receive.

So tell me, what’s your favorite takeaway mentioned above? Were you able to experience Blogalicious this year? Let me know!

I honestly found myself a bit overwhelmed with all the useful information I received, but it’s a good thing. I needed to immerse myself with all things blog and business related. I’ve been hungry all summer to learn and do more, and this conference was a great indicator that I’m on the right path. If you want to know how a few others felt about the conference check out the detailed recaps from Heart, Print & Style and Bernetta Style; two of my blogger buddies who I enjoyed seeing in Bmore! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJsocial | 5 Amazing Women You Should Follow on Periscope

September 10, 2015 by Whitney 6 Comments

Periscope has become my new thing. I mean it’s great! I love watching scopes every now and then, especially when the topics are about blogging, social media, entrepreneurship and lifestyle. I’m not addicted to periscope, or at least I don’t think I am, but I do watch certain “scopers” on what seems to be a daily basis. As I prepare to head to Blogalicious this weekend, I’m really excited because I’ll get to meet a few of my favorite periscopers/bloggers, as well as sit in their master classes and workshops. That said, here’s Part I of my 5 women to follow on Periscope list. Enjoy!

1. Whitney Nic James (@whitneynicjames) – Of course I had to make the list, lol. I’m not on as much as I’d like to be, but when I am I talk about inspiration, style, marriage and everything in between. It’s really a hodgepodge of topics and a continuation of what I post here on WNJ, as well as on my other social media channels. I plan to do more scoping this fall so be sure to follow!

2. Rochelle Washington (@rosereddpaper) – Rochelle is my kindred spirit/soul sister. Her scopes on branding, creativity and life happenings are such great pick me up’s. Her delivery is honest and real; some would say a bit “in your face”. I’m the kind of girl who can appreciate that delivery, so I love it! Be prepared to be in your feelings, but ready to receive what she’s saying. Rochelle will be honest with you and will challenge you to be and do better, which is so necessary. Her messages come from an honest, since place – always.

3. Mattie James (@mattieologie) – Mattie is another honest and real deliverer of a good message. Like Rochelle, she always comes from a good place. She also comes from a place of gratitude. You can tell in each scope that she’s thankful for her supporters, AKA her Live What You Lovers. Her positive and go-getter attitude is infectious. She scopes about the business of blogging, style, and how to live what you love, while making a #cutecoin while along the way. Her scope is a must listen; tell her I sent you. 😉

5 must follow women on @periscopeco! #wnjsocial

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4. Maya Elious (@MayaElious) – This Atlanta based design and brand strategist is the truth when it comes to branding and making money online. I respect her hustle and admire her work ethic; it’s incredible! Like her sister Mattie, Maya is always willing to share what she knows with her followers. She’s open and transparent about her business struggles and doesn’t mind sharing the in’s and out’s of what it’s really like to be a young entrepreneur. Be sure to follow her on Periscope and while you’re at it, check out her latest income report. If this doesn’t motivate you to go after your passion, not sure what will!

5. Leslie Hendricks Young (@FASHIONdujour) – Leslie is yet another one of my favorite people. I’ve had the pleasure of featuring her on the blog and whenever we get a chance to chat, I walk away feeling great. So of course, I follow this beauty on periscope! She scopes about life and relationships (marriage) and comes from a spiritual angle. I respect her realness and desire to share her Christian beliefs and morals with her followers. In the world we live in, Leslie’s approach and messages are refreshing and indeed necessary.

So tell me, what do you think of my 5 women to follow on Periscope list? Do you follow any of the ladies I mentioned above? Let me know!

I hope you take some time to check out these amazing women. Part II of my list will be published soon. In the meantime, check out these leading ladies and be inspired! As always, thanks for reading and follow all with me on social media as I enjoy the Blogalicious conference this weekend! Be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Entrepreneurship | DIY Brand Lab & the Bland2Brand Workshop

September 4, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

When I was approached by the lovely Toni Patterson, co-owner of the DIY Brand Lab, I was more than intrigued. After reading about the company and mission and talking to Toni, I knew us meeting was indeed purposeful. Toni and partner Treica Warnholz share my passion for correctly and purposefully branding yourself, as well as helping other entrepreneurs to the same.

If you haven’t noticed, I’ve been diligently working on upgrading my brand over the past few months. From adding more purposeful content, to launching my #FearlessWomanIam movement, to offering social media consultant services, I’m serious about taking Whitney ‘Nic’ James to the next level. Connecting with the DIY Brand Lab fueled me to continue taking the necessary steps to brand myself and grow my blog as a business. I’m excited to share a brief interview introducing the ladies behind DIY Brand Lab. I hope you all check out their website and attend their upcoming Bland2Brand workshop here in the DMV area on October 20th, perfect for creative entrepreneurs!

What’s a typical day for Toni & Trecia?

There’s no typical day. Even though we have combined design experience of 15 years, DIY Brand Lab is a “baby” brand. We work on it every day so that we can let people know we’re here to help and empower entrepreneurs to build their brands. We spend time marketing, making media connections, attending events, managing logistics, etc., so there’s no typical day.

What inspired you to create DIY Brand Lab?

Toni: I’ve been working 1-on-1 with clients for about 5 years through my parent company, Skye Media Group. Clients would come to me and not be prepared to brand. They would have a lot of ideas for developing their brand but no system, process or order in doing so they would be stuck, confused and unmotivated. I founded DIY Brand Lab as an answer to the individual who wants a brand but not sure how to go about it, or is frustrated from trying to brand or rebrand themselves.

For a start-up or current business owner, lacking the skills and budget to fund their brand was a hindrance. I wanted to fulfill a need in the marketplace to empower individuals to brand themselves, create their own website and be able to manage these things. The kick is that we work with the attendees 1-on-1 in a group setting to help them bring their brand vision to life.

I asked Trecia (Warnholz) to join me because I saw the potential of the workshop and knew I needed assistance. Through a Facebook group we’re a part of, she answered this call. Trecia is an expert in her own right working with non-profits, government agencies and other entities for over 10 years in design, branding and technology.

Toni Patterson & TRECIA WARNHOLZ | DIY Brand Lab Dynamic Duo

What is the mission of DIY Brand Lab?

Our goal is to eliminate the stress of branding and design by working with you directly at your side to teach and guide you through the process. You’ll be learning and doing a lot but this isn’t a stuffy classroom setting. It’s a fun, energetic and positive environment for you to create and, in the end, your brand will reflect the love and attention you’ve put into it (with our help, of course). This is why we’ve developed Bland2Brand so you can stop wasting time and money and get to the core of your brand, craft it and showcase it for the world to see.

What sets you apart from other branding consultants/companies?

We’re not afraid to share the secrets of building a brand and business. We’re not intimidating by allowing people to know what we know and know how we do things. They’re going to use what we teach them on their own business – not steal from us, so to speak.

Who should attend the upcoming DIY Brand Lab Workshop and why should they attend?

They should attend because of the value. Not only will they receive a fresh website, head-shots, branding, and logo but they’ll receive priceless design and technology training from Experts in a 1-on-1 setting as well as build community around their business.

DIY Brand Lab workshop is perfect for anyone who wants to:

Get taken seriously as a power player

Stop running around in circles about how to create your brand & website

Create a brand you can’t wait to show off

Transition from an employee to boss

Connect with other entrepreneurs in a space that promotes fun, life + freedom

Stop procrastinating and start building your empire

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Invest in yourself. If you can buy expensive material things such as shoes, purses and nights-out, you can afford to invest in your brand.

Where do you see the company in 5 years?

Transitioning from a local to national company.

How can we keep up with you?

Website // Instagram // Facebook // Twitter // Bland2Brand Workshop

#FearlessWoman Feature | Kéla Walker of Kela’s Kloset

August 12, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

There are some people I instantly gravitate to online and usually, it’s because of their undeniably amazing personalty. That’s one of the many reasons I started following New York based style authority and TV Host, Kéla Walker, on Instagram and Twitter (and now Snapchat). This feisty, intelligent and delightful New Yorker is a joy to keep up with via social media. She produces valuable and timely (style and beauty) content on her blog Kela’s Kloset, shares great fashion and real life insight on Twitter, and invites us into her day-to-day life over on Snapchat. She’s the quintessential fashionista who’s down-to-earth and possesses real human qualities.

This #FearlessWoman is also an award winning TV Host and producer and can often be seen on the side of a red carpet, chatting with the hottest celebs about style, fashion, and life in general. I’m very inspired by the positive and go-getter outlook Kéla has on life. Always uplifting and purposefully going after her dreams, Kéla Walker is certainly a #FearlessWoman to watch. Enjoy her interview and be sure to keep up with her on social media!

A #FearlessWoman is a one who moves forth and braves the elements. – @kelawalker

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What’s a typical day for Kéla?

I work in media so every day is different for me. One day I’m at my desk researching or producing elements for a segment. The next, I’m on location hosting said segment and then the day after that I’m editing the segment and crafting it into something for air. That’s during the day. At night, I’m likely covering some cool event for a major television outlet/ network (often up to three nights a week) or on the flip side I’m attending an awesome event which is always fun. Along the way I get dressed and document it all on KelasKloset.com

What inspired you to create Kéla’s Kloset?

A bunch of things inspired me to start Kelaskloset.com. For one, I didn’t see anyone who looked like me AND spoke to my style aesthetic in the blogosphere. I was already looking for a new challenge and something to inspire me so I thought why not try it. Also, I was bored with myself at the time and had a “kloset”‘full of clothes I wasn’t wearing because I wasn’t inspired in any way. Kéla’s Kloset ended up being just the jolt I needed to reinvigorate, giving myself and my “Kloset” a new sense of purpose.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

My mom, Johanne Walker. Duh. I watched her consistently turn water into wine, making the impossible, possible. She’s the ultimate hustler and provided a great blueprint for my life.

Michelle Obama She’s such an awe- inspiring First Lady, on so many levels. She a shining example of how much black girls that rock turn into black women who rock.

Joslyn Walker- my little sister. Who I have admired since she was a toddler (I’m 11 years her senior). It sounds strange but ever since I can remember she has always marched to the beat of her own drum. She doesn’t care what you think of her or what the consensus is, she is unapologetically herself. That’s so awesome to me, because I know a lot of grown women who still can’t do that.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Don’t knit pick your dreams and goals or get over occupied with perfection. Move forth in action. Learn and grow as you move and you’re sure to arrive at a place bigger than you ever dreamed. Also it’s so cliche but JUST DO IT and stop waiting on the right time. There’s no better time than the present.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman is a one who moves forth and braves the elements (good or bad) to accomplish the goal at hand. That’s not to say she’s not scared or completely without fear but it’s will not deter her from moving forwarding and accomplishing said goal.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Happy. I don’t like to do that whole 5 year 10 year thing. Of course I have goals and visions but those are my plans which are no comparison to the ones God has for me. I learned a long time ago his are better so I like to say I see myself happy in 5 years because ultimate that’s all that really matters. If a few million people know my name by then and can watch me on national television, I’ll take that too.

7. How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Snapchat (KelaWalker)

5 Truths | What I Know for Sure About Blogging After 5 Years

July 3, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

I was chatting with my Mom the other day and I realized that I’d been blogging for about 5 years now. ~~WOW!~~ I still can’t believe it sometimes. When I started blogging I had no clue how many opportunities would present themselves and I didn’t know how much about myself I’d learn. It’s always rewarding looking back and realizing that this hard work really is paying off. So today I thought it’d be helpful to share 5 what I know for sure about blogging tips.

1. It Takes a Village. I wouldn’t have started blogging if my husband hadn’t nudged me to publish my thrift store findings and tips. Without my parents constant support and idea sessions, I’d have no direction. My 13-year-old sister pours ideas out on a daily basis, and she’s a big help when it comes to editing my content. Even my grandmother has chimed in on the edits and content ideas. My fellow bloggers (in and outside of the DMV area) have helped me articulate blog post ideas, and of course you (the readers) have given me SO much support throughout the years. From emails, tweets, messages, blog post comments, and even stopping by at events to say hi have been a source of inspiration…it means the world to me. And I would not be such a dedicated blogger without my entire village. THANK YOU!

2. It Takes Time. Like most of us, I had that microwave mentality when I first started blogging. I just knew I was going to be an overnight sensations. HA! Not even. It takes time and endurance to be a committed, trusted blogger. The quality of your content depends on your consistency and effort, and taking your time is a big part of that. Also, valuing your time is crucial. Are you attending certain events to be seen or is there really a purpose to you being there? If there isn’t, you could be spending your time doing something to enhance your craft. Be mindful of how your spending your time as a creative (entrepreneur) and take your time when working to get to the top of your game.

If you don’t have a tribe/village behind you as a blogger, you need to get one ASAP. #wnjblogs

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3. It’s All About Relationships. At the core, I’m a loner. I don’t prefer crowds, but you’d never know it. When I socialize and network, I make it a point to meet 3 new people wherever I am. And by meeting them I mean getting (~~and remembering~~) their full name, business name, and walking away with a business card. Building relationships with (the right) people is also a key factor in being successful. Relationship building takes time, and it also requires a follow up with the people you’ve met. Mattieologie has some great tips on how to be taken seriously when you haven’t made it yet that you may find helpful. She also has a podcast (Ask Mattie) that answers a lot of questions you may have about blogging. Check it out!

4. Learn, Be Social & Enjoy the Ride. I don’t like school/classroom settings. I get that, understand it and I’ve accepted it. However, I love to learn. It’s like air for me; a necessity. Learning tips and tricks form other successful bloggers, as well as the in’s and outs of entrepreneurship has been awesome, especially since the beginning of the year. Attending seminars (online and in person), traveling to conferences and meeting like-minded people has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and really grow. Deciding to blog with a purpose and with intention was the best decision I’ve made, and since I’ve done that I’ve been enjoying the ride a lot more. Be social, get out there and find classes and activities that will enhance your career and better you as a person. It’s worth it, trust me.

5. Everyone will not wish you well, and that’s OK. This is the toughest pill I’ve had to swallow, but in some strange way it’s been satifying. I have become more aware of those people around me and have made a conscious effort to only have people in my circle who not necessarily agree with everything I say, but respect me and want the best for me. Time is everything and spending it with people who have your best interests at heart is crucial. Everyone won’t be on your team and everyone won’t root for you. It’s fine. Accept that, understand that it’s part of life, and don’t take it personal. Don’t let it break you; keep going and remember your purpose.

Time management and consistency are key factors in achieving success of any kind. #wnjblogs

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So tell me, what do you know for sure about blogging? Anything I mentioned resonate with your journey? Let me know!

As I said yesterday, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I’ll be sending out free printables and resources for blogging and entrepreneurship. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, so why not now?? As always thanks for reading and keeping up with me on social media. Until Monday, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Garay Treasures **

Guest Blogger | What to Wear to a Summer Blog Conference

June 16, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

Blogging conferences bring about so much excitement! While they can be so much fun, the conferences are truly educational, offer opportunities to network, help you develop your business and usually provide you with plan of action. As with any other activity related to your blogging business, the way that you present yourself at a conference is important. While attending, you are your brand, every day, every minute of the conference. Be prepared to represent your brand very well. You want to be taken seriously.

Once you register and plan your traveling, it’s time to pack for a stylish, professional, oh so cute, and comfortable experience. But….HOW? Most conferences are Thursday-Sunday so this snapshot should take you through those few days. Here’s a sample agenda and a visual (celebrity inspired) for What to Wear to a Summer Blog Conference.

*Author’s Note: I recommend substituting shoes that are pictured, for comfortable flats sandals/shoes to suit your walking needs.*

Thursday and Sunday Travel – Boyfriend jeans and tee with a little layering for the cool flight or train ride.

Thursday Night Networking Event – Fun jumpsuit; jazz it up and impress. First impressions are lasting ones.

Friday workshops – Nice pants & blouse. You can layer with a cardigan/light blazer for those cool conference rooms.

Friday Night Networking & Fun – Fun summer dress; time to show off & grab cocktails!

First impressions are a lasting one. – @misssassystyle

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Saturday Workshops – Stylish dress or skirt. Show your personality and style; add cardigan/light blazer for layering.

Saturday Night Dinner / Out & About with New Blogger friends – Jeans and an easy, cute top.

You are so ready! Oh, don’t forget your FIVE must-haves since you are there for blogging business:

1. Camera

2. Laptop

3. Phone/Laptop Chargers

4. Business Cards

5. Note Pad (some of us still like to take quick notes the old fashioned way)

Make sure you pack these items for those summer #blogging conferences!

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So tell me, what are a few of your must haves to wear to a blog confrence? What do you have to take with you? Let me know!

Okay…go, go, go and have a FABULOUS time! I can’t wait to hear all about it.

Written by: Stania Romain of Miss-Sassy.com | Wardrobe stylist & style blogger in Washington, DC.

#WNJInspired | How to Get and Stay Motivated

June 2, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

It seems like just yesterday I was posting about vision boards and sharing some of my goals for 2015. Looking back, I am very pleased with my progress. I’ve been able to accomplish a number of the goals I set, and most of them I’ve checked off earlier than expected. However, there are still quite a few things left on my “to accomplish” list/vision board. Learning how to stay motivated to do so isn’t always easy, but it has gotten easier as I’ve gotten older. Here are 5 tips to help you get and stay motivated!

1. Write it down. | This tip is crucial, and it works! I’m always writing (or typing in my phone) something down. From personal thoughts, to tasks or grocery lists, to blog/business ideas, I’m what you call a “jotter”. I’m always jotting something down. I guess being a writer, it comes naturally. But lately I’ve taken writing things down more seriously. Thanks to Myleik Teele’s Learn More to Earn More Journal, writing down lists is much more effective and specific these days. Using this journal, I follow Myleik’s suggestions on “how to” journal and make lists. One side of the journal is for lists/tasks, and the other is for ideas, reminders and random thoughts. The journal comes with an in depth outline from Myliek, so following this was easy. Writing things down gets the ideas out of your head, on paper, and holds you accountable to make it happen. Try it.

Writing things down gets ideas out of your head, on paper and holds you accountable. #wnjinspired

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2. Find & Stick to a Routine. | Like most humans, I’m a creature of habit. I thrive on routine. It keeps me on track and on task. Creating a routine and sticking to it is a sure way to stay motivated. Sure, things happen and plans change. When that happens roll with it and do your best to get back to your regularly scheduled program. Krystal of the Feisty House has some great tips on routines and staying on task!

3. Find a Mentor. | I don’t know how many times I’ve been told to “find a mentor in your field.” For years it was tough to find someone I could trust and someone I actually looked up to and believed in enough to be a mentor. I did eventually find that person, thank goodness, and I actually have several mentors to this day. Some of my mentors are aware, while others aren’t. I call those my “virtual/in my head” mentors. I follow them on social media for inspiration, watch their (FREE) webinars and videos on YouTube, and actually tweet out to them from time to time. Having both types of mentors is extremely helpful and imperative in the quest to stay motivated. If you’re looking for a mentor, make sure their goals and morals are aligned with yours. Send a short email or message, letting them know a little about you and how you’d like them to help. I’ve found that people are willing and available to help, but you have to make the first move. Ask and you shall receive.

5 ways to get and STAY motivated. #wnjinspired

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4. Stop Watching TV. | This has been tough for me to do, but I can already see how it’s helped keep me motivated on my goals. I’m a huge TV buff, especially reality TV. And while it’s a struggle for me to peel myself away from a show, in order to accomplish my goals I have to spend more time working on that than feeding my mind with what’s on TV. I’ve started recording my “must watch” shows and binge watching them on the weekends. That way I’m using the time during the week to get more work done, but I still allow myself some time to enjoy my guilty pleasures. I’m still working on this…the struggle is real!

5. Revisit & Tweak Your Goals. | Goals are great, but there maybe times you need to change your approach (or certain goals in general). That said, don’t be afraid to revisit your vision board or goal list and tweak somethings. As you go throughout the year you may find some goals need more time than you allotted for. Tweak it. You may have a listed goal that isn’t in line with your current vision. Tweak it and make the new goal fit your lifestyle. It’s OK to change/or rework your goals. As long as your constantly going after something positive and trying to better yourself, that’s all that matters.

So tell me, how do you stay motivated? What are some tips you have on the topic? Let me know below!

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