Why You Can’t Let Your Ex Go

Binge watching your newest favorite show on Netflix bores you. You’re sick of being in the house and want something to do. All your friends are busy…well, accept one person. Your ex-boyfriend. Without much thought, your fingers begin texting and minutes later, you’re no longer activity-less. You meet up somewhere familiar and start your evening as always. But why is it that the person you are no longer with for whatever reason seems to be your go-to guy whenever you need him?

Because you’re lonely.

All your friends are happy and chose and you’re…still waiting. And waiting can be lonely. Being around him can make you feel less lonely, if at least physically.

Because he’s comfortable.

You know all of him and he knows all of you. You know each others quirks so being around him in small doses makes him tolerable.

Because you remember the good things about him.

You started dating him for a reason, right? Meeting him for dinner or a flick is just like reliving those happy moments, if for only a moment.

Because you started second guessing yourself.

Why did we break up again? Is he different now? Are we supposed to get back together and live happily ever after? Keep a clear head and remember the root of your issues before going down that road again.

Because you never got closure.

The door to your relationship was never completely slammed shut so it always allowed for reunions like this. The text messages seem harmless but they’ve become stoppers that keep your relationship ajar. 

Let’s be real—being patient sucks. That’s why you can’t let your ex go. However, don’t cloud your moments of weakness with superficial company. Periods of isolation are often opportunities of preparation. Something new is on the horizon if you can only wait those moments out. Take advantage of those times and reflect on your old relationships and encounters. Discover the lessons in those situations so that you are ready for whatever comes next.

Credits: Vox Efx

7 Things You Should Know Before Starting A Business

Hello everyone! I’m Alisha, lifestyle blogger and shop owner over at TheAlishaNicole.com. I have been an entrepreneur for a little over two years now and through trial and error, I have learned SO much about turning your hobby into a full time business. Today I wanted to share a few things you should know before taking that leap of faith.

1. The hardest part is taking that first step.

Our minds have a crazy way of trying to talk us into not doing something. We end up procrastinating and thinking of a million different excuses to why we can’t put ourselves out there. Don’t let fear stop you from doing something that you are truly passionate about. Taking the first step is the hardest part! Whether that’s writing out your vision for your business or simply buying the domain name for your website.

2. Be ready to work harder than you’ve ever worked before.

Starting a business isn’t easy! And turning your hobby into a business is even harder! Think of your new venture like a flower; it needs a ton of love, nurturing and time in order for it to grow!

3. Branding is EVERYTHING.

Branding is way more than just a pretty logo and website. Your brand is essentially who you are, what your business stands for and how you communicate with your customers.Guard it with your life. Before launching, sit down and really think about your business, your voice and your target audience. Also a good chunk of your budget should go into proper branding as far as putting together your logo and website. No, you don’t have to go and spend a lot of money on it but it should look professional.

4. Networking is EVERYTHING.

Your business is nothing if no one knows that it exists. Join local small business groups in your area, use social media to connect with other small business owners and never be afraid to ask for advice from someone who has been in your shoes before!

5. Everyone won’t understand and that’s ok.

Not everyone will get why you have decided to take this leap of faith into entrepreneurship, some may even question you and think that you’re crazy. But don’t let that get you down. Just understand that they have never been in your shoes and your passion is not for them to understand. Yes it will hurt but use that hurt as motivation to make your business succeed.

6. It won’t be cheap.

You know the saying “It takes money to make money”? Well it is most definitely the TRUTH! Starting a business can get really pricey! Try to save as much as you can while you are in the planning process and think of ways you can cut corners. (Ex: design your own business cards instead of hiring a professional)

7. It will be worth it.

After the longs nights, stress and maybe even a few tears, seeing your business up and running is seriously the best feeling EVER! Yes it will be hard but I promise you it will be all worth!

I hope these tips help!

Appreciate the Moment

My morning routine is pretty much consistent—waking up ten minutes too late, pulling up The Weather Channel app to read the forecast, rummaging through my closet to figure out what to wear, haphazardly fixing my hair, and running out the door to catch the bus. Every day begins with a rush that doesn’t end until I lay my head on the pillow at night. But one morning in particular, I was booking it to catch the Xpress bus to commute to midtown. I parked my car with three minutes to spare and started running. When I got in the boarding line, something told me to look up. The sky was a perfect combination of purple, pink, and orange. I was completely engrossed in its beauty. It was like God was speaking to me.

“Slow down.”

I was so caught up in the hustle and bustle of my daily pandemonium that I almost forgot to just take in everything around me. Every person, opportunity, and experience in my life was a blessing to have.  The smallest situation could change my life instantly. Was I that caught up in the shuffle? Apparently so. God wanted me to just appreciate the moment, if for only a minute. And I did.

Remember to slow down and embrace your blessings today.