The other day, I was talking to someone who was feeling completely overwhelmed. They were frustrated because a particular person kept calling them for help—again and again. I could hear the exhaustion in their voice, the frustration, the weight of always being the “go-to” person.
I listened, and then I simply said, “Don’t answer.”
Silence.
They paused, almost surprised by the suggestion. Could it really be that simple? Yes. Yes, it could.
Stop the Overwhelm in Its Tracks
The easiest way to eliminate stress in situations like this is to not engage.
If someone is constantly calling you for help, let the phone ring.
If a text message comes through demanding your attention, let it sit unread.
If an email tugs at your time and energy, give yourself permission to reply later—or not at all.
What happens when you do this?
The other person is forced to think for themselves and solve their own problems.
This small shift in your response time changes everything. It teaches people that they don’t always have instant access to you, and it allows you to reclaim your peace.
The Lesson: You Have the Right to Say No
The real challenge isn’t ignoring the phone—it’s releasing the guilt that comes with it.
You are not responsible for solving everyone’s problems.
You do not have to answer every call, text, or request immediately.
And most importantly: You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
By stepping back, you give others the opportunity to grow, problem-solve, and learn to stand on their own. Your peace is not a sacrifice for someone else’s convenience.
So today, I encourage you: Try this one simple trick. When the next overwhelming call or text comes through, let it sit. Take a deep breath. Release the guilt. And watch how quickly your stress and anxiety begin to melt away.
Every Friday morning, without fail, I feel it—a sense of relief, a deep exhale. The end of the workweek, the school week, the constant go-go-go.Friday is my permission slip to slow down, to take a breath, to shift gears.
For me, Fridays and the weekend mean rest. Catching up on sleep, lounging in my most comfortable clothes, finally watching the shows I recorded all week but never had time for. Oh yeah, and maybe a little housework—but on my terms.
Every Friday at work, there’s always that one person who asks, “What are your plans this weekend?”“Doing anything fun?” And every time, I pause, slightly confused, because the way my life is set up, Friday night and the weekend are about one thing: relaxation. Zen mode. Unplugging. Living as simply as possible before Monday rolls back around.
Sure, every now and then we’ll plan a night out, a brunch, a gathering. But it’s not an every-weekend thing. Some weekends are for being, not doing.3 SELF CARE REMINDERS FOR THE WEEKEND
For some, Friday means excitement, the start of a weekend packed with social plans, events, and outings. For others, Friday means slowing down, shutting off, and retreating into peace. Neither is right or wrong—it all comes down to how you live and what you need.
Do you use Fridays to transition into relaxation or into adventure?
The way you spend your weekends reflects the way you approach life. If you’re always running on empty, constantly overcommitted, never pausing—maybe your weekends need to be more about replenishment.
On the other hand, if you always play it safe, keep things predictable, and avoid stepping out, maybe you could sprinkle in a little more spontaneity.
Whatever your answer, make sure your weekends serve you. Not just another two days of obligation or mindless habits, but time spent in a way that reflects the life you truly want to live.
There’s a woman I know—strong, selfless, and always smiling. If you saw her, you’d think she had it all together. But beneath that smile was a woman stretched beyond her limits.
She was the primary caregiver for both of her aging parents, waking them up for breakfast, taking them to doctor’s appointments, putting them to bed at night—only to head off to work for long, exhausting hours. The financial strain of medical bills and dailycare pushed her to take on extra shifts, leaving little time for herself. She was a mother, a grandmother, a wife, an employee of 23 years—and a woman who had completely neglected her own well-being.
The physical toll was undeniable. She wasn’t sleeping, barely eating, and her health was deteriorating. But she convinced herself she could handle it—until life made the decision for her. She was let go from her job.
Her world seemed to shatter in an instant. What now? She still had a child in high school, a mortgage, and two elderly parents depending on her. The weight of responsibility felt unbearable. But then, in the midst of what seemed like a crisis, something shifted. Her husband, seeing the toll it was taking on her, gave her an ultimatum: Either leave the workforce to care for her parents or find a job that wouldn’t break her body and spirit.
At first, the thought of change was terrifying. But just two days later, she walked in smiling—lighter, freer, and happier than she had been in years. She had found a new job with stable hours, no nights or weekends, and enough flexibility to care for her parents without sacrificing herself.
Hearing her story made me reflect on something we all do—we stay in situations long past their expiration date because they feel familiar, even when they are draining us dry. Comfort zones can be dangerous.
When we stay too long:
At a job that no longer values or compensates us properly, we risk burnout.
In a relationship that is no longer serving us, we risk bitterness and resentment.
In a mindset that keeps us stuck in fear, we block our own blessings.
Change is uncomfortable, but discomfort is the birthplace of growth. It forces us to think differently, move differently, and tap into skills, talents, and opportunities we never considered before.
You feel drained, exhausted, or stuck in the same cycle.
Your situation no longer aligns with your well-being and happiness.
You’re staying out of fear—fear of the unknown, fear of failure, or fear of losing control.
You keep receiving “signs” that it’s time to move on, but you ignore them.
If you feel stuck, ask yourself:
What am I holding onto out of fear?
What could be waiting for me on the other side of this discomfort?
If I had no fear, what step would I take today?
The truth is, sometimes life will make the decision for you. The question is, will you embrace it or fight it? This woman thought she had it all under control until she didn’t. But what felt like a setback was actually a setup for something better. Trust Yourself: You Already Know the Answer
Don’t wait until life forces you to change—choose growth before it chooses you.
What situation in my life have I stayed in for too long, and why?
What am I afraid might happen if I step out of my comfort zone?
Have I ignored any signs or nudges telling me it’s time for a change?
How has my current situation impacted my emotional, mental, and physical well-being?
What is one small step I can take toward change today?
Have I ever been pushed into an uncomfortable situation before? How did I grow from it?
What limiting beliefs are keeping me stuck?
If I could design my ideal life without fear or limitations, what would it look like?
Who in my life supports my growth, and who keeps me stuck?
What’s one thing I know deep down I need to do—but have been avoiding?
This is your reminder: You are capable of more than you think. If you’re in a situation that’s draining you, it might be time to step out, let go, and trust that something better is waiting on the other side.
Are you ready to embrace discomfort and step into your next season of growth?
“Sometimes you already know the answer. You’re just not ready to accept it.”
Much of our stress comes from the responsibility of making decisions—whether they’re daily minor choices or big, life-changing ones. Often, we call our loved ones or friends to get validation, hoping they will confirm what we already suspect or even tell us what the right decision is. But the truth is, they can’t always give us the answers—because the answer can only come from within us.
The reality is that deep down, we already know the answer, have the answer, and know what to do. We hesitate because we fear making the wrong choice, we crave certainty, or we don’t feel ready to accept what we already understand. But waiting for someone else to affirm our decision doesn’t change what we know to be true in our hearts. Simple Self-Care Tips That Go a Long Way
This is your reminder to trust your instincts, that inner voice, and most importantly, yourself. You won’t always have all the information, and no decision comes with absolute certainty. But you can move forward confidently, knowing that you are making the best choice with what you know right now.
If you’re facing a difficult choice or an uncertain situation, remind yourself that you already have the answer you’re seeking. Go with it. Trust it. And don’t look back. Growth comes from trusting yourself, taking action, and believing that you are capable of handling whatever comes next.
What am I afraid will happen if I make this choice?
How have my instincts guided me correctly in the past?
If I had no fear of failure, what would I decide right now?
Am I seeking validation from others, or do I already know what’s right for me?
What’s the worst that could happen—and can I handle it?
How would my life improve if I trusted my own judgment more?
What is one small action I can take today to move forward?
You are capable. You are wise. And you already have the answers you’re looking for. Trust yourself, take the leap, and move forward with confidence—you won’t regret it.
Each new day is a gift, and within it, we are given everything we need to handle today. There is no need for worry or fear—we are equipped for the present moment. So let’s choose to live this day with hope, expectation, love, and forgiveness.
Whatever happened yesterday, over the weekend, last week, or even last month—it’s time to release it. Holding onto past frustrations, disappointments, or regrets only weighs us down. Forgive, move on, and refuse to let negativity build up in your heart and mind. Just as we take a shower daily to cleanse our bodies, we must also cleanse our minds daily. QUICK MONDAY MORNING MOTIVATIONAL TIP
If we neglect personal hygiene, we begin to smell, bacteria builds up, and we become susceptible to illness. No one wants to be around us when we aren’t taking care of ourselves. The same is true for our minds. If we carry anger, resentment, frustration, bitterness, or sadness without release, it affects not only us but also those around us. A negative, unrefreshed mind can push people away just as much as an unclean body.
We see countless videos on beautyroutines, self-care regimens, skincare rituals, and gym workouts. While those are great for maintaining physical well-being, how often do we see content about forgiveness, letting go, and mental refreshment? A “Day in How I Forgive, Let Go, and Refresh” vlog would be just as valuable as a skincareroutine.
This is your gentle reminder to cleanse your minddaily. Whatever that may look like for you—prayer, meditation, journaling, deep breathing, or simply making a conscious choice to release negativity—commit to it. https://amzn.to/4iwLj3g
Today, embrace the power of renewal and refreshment. Don’t let yesterday’s burdens carry over into today. You are given a new start every morning—embrace it, live in hope, and walk forward with a heart free of clutter.
Change can be daunting, especially when it comes to career shifts. Fear of the unknown, self-doubt, and uncertainty often hold us back from taking the leap. I recently spoke with someone contemplating a careerchange, yet fear kept them rooted in place. If you’re facing a similar crossroads, here’s what I shared with them:
Your intuition is powerful. When something no longer serves you or brings you joy, your instincts will tell you—it’s time to move on. Believe in that inner voice. If you stay stuck, you limit your growth, both personally and professionally, and create a mental space that feels like a dark, confined box. Trusting yourself means embracing the possibilities outside of that box. DON’T PUT YOURSELF IN A BOX
Everyone Starts Somewhere
Even if you’re afraid to start fresh, remember that everyone has been new at something before. You are not alone in this journey. Your education, experience, and background have equipped you with the tools to navigate change. Think of the moments in your life when you adapted, learned, and succeeded—you have done it before, and you can do it again.
If you are a spiritual person, remember that God has never let you down. Trust in His timing and in the journey He has prepared for you. You are stronger than you think, and you are equipped to handle whatever comes your way. Let faith be your guide as you step into this new chapter with courage.
If you knew you couldn’t fail, what would you do next?
What does self-trust mean to you, and how can you strengthen it?
Write a letter to your future self, encouraging them to keep going.
What is one small step you can take today toward your desired future?
Believing in yourself is the first step toward transformation. Trust your instincts, embrace the fact that everyone starts somewhere, and lean into your faith for guidance. You are more than capable of navigating change—you are equipped for it. The world is waiting for what you have to offer. Now is the time to step forward with confidence and trust in yourself.
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks—it’s about nurturing your body, mind, and soul. As I’ve navigated my own journey through perimenopause, I’ve realized how important it is to have the right tools for self-care. From dealing with sleep disruptions to unexpected stress and changes in skin and hair health, I’ve had to rethink my routine. Investing in the right products has truly made a difference in how I feel every day. If you’re experiencing similar shifts, here are 10 must-have self-care essentials that can help you feel your best every day.
1. Silk Pillowcases
Say goodbye to sleep wrinkles and frizzy hair! Silk pillowcases reduce friction, helping to keep your skin smooth and your hair healthy. They also help regulate temperature for a better night’s sleep. One thing about Peri is she’s hot. The less I wear to sleep the better. I wasn’t a big proponent of the silk pillowcase but it has not only saved my hair style, I sweat less, and my moisturizer doesn’t get eaten by my pillowcase.
Struggling with sleep or anxiety? A weighted blanket provides gentle pressure that mimics a hug, promoting relaxation and deeper sleep. One of my biggest inconveniences is having nightmare dreams that awakens me at 2:31 am and I never go back to sleep. Although this sounds counter productive from number one, being cold and shivering comes along with the rollercoaster. Feeling secure with a soft blanket allows your mind and muscles to relax resulting in a clear peaceful mind to sleep through the night.
Collagen production decreases with age, leading to wrinkles and joint pain. A high-quality collagen supplement supports skin elasticity, hair growth, and joint health. If you’re not a supplement user, powder form has been included in many women over 40 routines. Smoothies of course are a great option. I’ve seen women put collagen powder in homemade oats, yogurt parfaits, and drink recipes.
Aromatherapy is a simple yet effective way to reduce stress and improve mood. Essential oil diffusers fill your space with calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus. This is especially great as I’ve transitioned from candles, incense, and other fragrance fused products. This is a great way to add fragrance without the toxins of a candle.
Sore muscles and tension ? One day after feeling tensed and tight I decided to use one of my kids neck pillows while watching television. After sitting at desk all day and probably not having good posture, sitting with a neck pillow provides relief, stability, strength, and comfort.
Protect your eyes from digital strain caused by screens. Blue light blocking glasses can help reduce headaches, eye fatigue, and improve sleep quality. I probably look like anyone’s grandma. I have readers in every purse, room, drawer at work, and at home. Not just for the healthbenefits, but they add style and personality.
Writing down thoughts, goals, or gratitude can improve mentalclarity and reduce stress. A guided journal paired with colorful pens makes self-reflection even more enjoyable. At this point you probably feel like you are the only one going through something. No one understands you. Or no one believes you. Well that’s the beauty in journaling. You can say whatever it is and your journal will completely understand. When Peri shows up uninvited, tell her how you feel and just get it out. Most of the time we just need to vent. 10 FUN JOURNAL PROMPTS TO GET YOUR MIND OFF YOUR PROBLEMS
Skin changes with age, making hydration a top priority. Look for serums with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and nourishing night creams to keep your skinglowing. Actives are great. But the way my dry skin has dried and dried more. Moisturemoisturemoisture is the only answer. Those expensive ones work great, however these last couple weeks Vaseline has had my skinglowing. Tip: After your moisturizer, simply put a thin layer of Vaseline either on your entire face, as an eye cream, or dry patches and watch the dewy skin shine in the morning. And the silk pillowcase keeps it on your skin.
Staying hydrated is essential, but it’s easy to forget! There’s plenty of options out there and I’ve tried many. Again, because I have become more mindful about reducing toxins, I settled on a stainless steel water bottle that isn’t the size of a laundry basket and I am able to carry it around without it being a nuisance. Also I settled on a 18oz bottle. This allows me to keep track of the amount I have drank and I am more motivated to keep my goal of refilling it every hour. Yes it’s a lot. But the more water I drink the better I feel and the less my symptoms show up.
Scalp health is often overlooked but plays a big role in hair growth and relaxation. A scalp massager stimulates circulation and relieves tension headaches. Peri comes with headaches and some womenexperience hair thinning or loss. Again I thought this was pointless but this works better than the balls of my fingertips.
Prioritizing self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re looking to improve sleep, reduce stress, or enhance your beauty routine, these must-have products can help you feel rejuvenated and refreshed.
