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Starting at a new educational establishment or taking a new course in September can be an exciting time. Personally, I really enjoy this time of year – having been a student for most of my adult life, I always see it as a ‘new start’ each year.

It’s wonderful to be taking a course on a subject that you really want to learn about and I find that the time between September and Christmas really whizzes by in a flurry of freshers events and lectures. So, to help you feel prepared in advance for the next semester, I’ve come up with a list of study essentials you might need.

Whether you’re starting your GCSE options or A-Level subjects or are moving away to uni or studying at a local collage, there are always a few items that you’ll need – and you might be able to save money on them if you start sourcing these essentials now.

There’s plenty of advice for students available online from Student Union officers to help you have a flying start when you arrive in September – but if you want to get ahead of the game, here are 4 essentials you can begin getting organised over the summer before your course kicks off.

1. Essential Tech

In August and September, there’s usually a big sale on tech items in stores and online. That’s because retailers know that students often have a loan or grant to spend on the things they need for their course, so they’ll slash prices to be the most attractive option for you to buy.

Most students will need a laptop, printer, keyboard and so-on ready for writing their essays and doing research at uni. If this is the case for you, you can wait until September to take advantage of those seasonal discounts on tech.

Or, if you want to get prepared over the summer before your course starts, you can keep an eye out for refurbished tech, which might mean you’re able to get a better system or a branded laptop for less money by shopping secondhand.

If you already have a laptop or PC that works but is a bit old, you’ve got time to take it to a tech repair company to have the system hardware upgraded before you start your course. This will ensure it’ll last for longer and perform the way you need it to.

Plus, by sorting out your tech over the summer, you’ve still got time to install any specfic software you need for your studies. There’s nothing worse than sitting down to start working at your computer and then getting stuck becuase you don’t have the right programes installed and it taking ages to update!

2. Specs for studying

I think another essential before starting a course is getting a sight test. You’re going to need to be able to see clearly in your classes in order to learn – the first time I realised I needed glasses was when doing my GCSEs and the instructions on the classroom board looked blurry, so I couldn’t follow.

So, before your start at your new school or college, head to the opticians during the summer and get a sight test. You may discover you need glasses for reading or that you’re short-sighted and might even need spectacles for driving.

Plus, even if you don’t need glasses to improve your vision, you might want to consider getting blue light glasses like I did. These are an essential if you’re going to be working at a computer for long periods of time, such as while writing assignments.

The lenses protect against blue-violet light emitted by digital devices to reduce eye strain and glare, allowing you to work at your PC or read on your tablet more comfortably for longer. I’m currently wearing prescription blue light glasses while I write this and find them really helpful in minimising tired eyes.

3. Study space

While I was a student, I found that it’s really hard to work on essays and assignments if you don’t have a dedicated study space with a desk and an office chair. Even though it’s possible to sit in bed with a laptop (and rather tempting some days!) it’s not the best way to be productive with your time as you’ll probably feel too relaxed and will work more slowly.

It’s also not great for your posture, your legs or your back to be sitting cross-legged or hunched over a screen. No-one needs a sore back and stiff knees while trying to concentrate on revision. So I think a desk space is absolutely crucial for your success at college.

So, make sure you’ve got a desk to work at but it doesn’t need to be office furniture – it could be a small table or even just a deep shelf in an alcove at the right height for you to sit at. Then you should turn your attention to your seat.

Since getting researching ergonomic office chairs for my own workspace and finding the ideal one for me, it has made a huge difference to how comfortable I feel while working. I can therefore work on tasks for longer, which is essential when you’ve got a last-minute essay to write!

4. Books, books, books

If you’re starting a new course, no doubt you’ll have a few textbooks that are recommended reading for your subject. Often, when studying at uni or college, you’ll receive a list of required books before your course starts and you might even be asked to read some in advance before the module begins.

So, when you receive the reading list, try to source those titles online immediately. If you wait until September, there will be many other students shopping for the same books, which will drive the prices up. There are also lots of ways to get cheap or even free academic textbooks to save you splurging your a big chunk of your student loan on books.

Timing is everything – if you’re shopping secondhand to save money, you might find that the textbook you want is completely sold out if you wait until September. So, head online to browse for a pre-loved edition of the book you need now – last year’s students will probably be trying to sell their old textbooks on auction sites or secondhand marketplaces so it’s the perfect time to sit down and shop for that list of books.

I hope these suggestions will help you to feel prepared AND save money in advance of starting your new course in September. Let me know in the comments section below if you’ve got any other things you’d add to this list of studying essentials for new students, I’d love to hear your ideas.

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From mental and physical health to accommodation quality, nutrition and social development, a student’s lifestyle choices during university profoundly shape both their academic performance and their long-term career trajectory.

Therefore, if you’re a student yourself, or a member of your family is heading to university, putting wellbeing at the forefront is a strategic move to shape a more productive, adaptable and employable future.

Here’s why achieving a balanced student lifestyle is so important while you’re studying at university…

Mental Health Matters

When student mental health suffers, academic performance almost always follows suit. Here, the numbers paint a stark picture; A 2022 survey by Student Minds revealed that over half (57%) of students experienced mental health concerns, with over a quarter of those having a formal diagnosis.

A systematic review published in the International Journal of Wellbeing in the same year concluded that student wellbeing is consistently associated with academic performance. This connection was echoed in a later 2023 King’s College London study, where nearly a third of students reported considering dropping out due to poor mental health.

Sadly, the link between mental health and academic performance is bidirectional, in that academic struggles often worsen mental health, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of poor motivation and performance.

Students Need Better Sleep

We don’t often think of sleep as a study skill – quite the opposite, in fact; Many parents have likely berated their child for sleeping when they “should be studying”. Still, we know for a fact that a good, consistent sleep pattern is vital to our health.

A 2023 study from the British Association of General Paediatrics found that 75% of UK students qualified as “poor sleepers” during the week, while almost all (95%) reported feeling peer pressure to stay up late.

While peer pressure to indulge in late nights could be for a number of unrelated reasons – especially considering the potential goings-on in student halls, the phenomenon of late-night cram sessions is very real; a 2021 study from Red Brick Research showed no less than three in five students admitting that they’ve had to stay up all night studying at some point.

You don’t need data to understand how sleep deprivation can have a direct impact on academic and career success. Disrupted sleep is linked to procrastination, and is strongly associated with absenteeism and underperformance, while also hindering creativity, emotional regulation, and decision-making — all vital traits in the academic environment and the modern workplace.

Universities can turn the tide with targeted sleep education, accessible counselling, and timetabling strategies that support healthy rest habits.

Success Begins At Home

With access to some of the most thoughtfully-designed student apartments London and around the wider UK, young academics are increasingly discovering how a healthy living environment can positively impact both their academic performance and long-term career success.

Where students live during their time in the education system should be seen as far more than a means to an end. For many, their accommodation shapes how they feel on a day-to-day basis, as well as how they’ll behave and perform in social, academic and professional environments.

Given this, it seems reasonable that the best student accommodation should be a that which balances solitude, security and sanctuary with stimulation, community and the freedom to thrive – both socially and academically. 

A study published in BMC Public Health highlights student accommodation as a vital component of the university experience. Since many students spend a significant amount of time there, well-designed, comfortable and well-maintained student living spaces aren’t a luxury, but a necessary component of student success. Quality living conditions help to reduce stress, support concentration, and build community spirit. These conditions not only support academic success, but develop confidence and future career readiness.

As it happens, good student housing is a key factor in the decision-making process of students as to where they take their courses; A 2024 Student Accommodation Survey found that over half of prospective students chose their university based, in part, on housing quality.

Food For Thought

A good exercise regime and balanced nutritional diet serve as cognitive fuel – especially important for students; Those who exercise regularly during their studies report experiencing better stress regulation, higher motivation, and improved academic performance.

Balanced diets also support memory, focus, and stamina, but, as commonly known among graduate students, many students skip meals or rely on fast food or the tried and tested “beans on toast” dinner due to time pressures, limited budgets, or lack of access to suitable cooking facilities.

Universities that provide living arrangements with accessible fitness facilities, affordable healthy meals (or at the very least, adequate cooking facilities) and robust, structured wellness programs help students build habits that support both learning and long-term resilience.

Digital Distractions

UK students spend an exorbitant amount of time in front of screens – whether that’s a personal mobile, laptop or TV. A report by the UK Parliament’s Education Committee noted a 52% increase in screen time for children and adolescents between 2020 and 2022, with nearly 25% of children and young people using their smartphones in a manner consistent with behavioral addiction. These habits can be hard to kick, even as one reaches young adulthood, but the effect of excessive screen time presents more than a mere distraction. 

Again, King’s College London revealed that extended periods of recreational screen time were associated with heightened psychological distress reported around three years later. Those with the highest recreational use of screens reported nearly double the levels of anxiety and psychological distress.

Even passive phone use during lectures is linked to reduced test scores – A study conducted at Rutgers University revealed that students who had access to electronic devices during lectures scored at least 5% lower in end-of-term exams compared to those without device access.

It’s clear, then, that unchecked screen time contributes to academic burnout, poor focus, and low engagement. Universities can help by promoting screen-free study zones, digital wellbeing workshops, and time management support. On the side of the students themselves, those who learn to manage digital boundaries today are more equipped for the attention demands of fast-paced, tech-heavy workplaces tomorrow.

From Campus to Career

In this developing age of artificial intelligence and automation, soft skills are fast becoming a graduate’s greatest asset. Communication, empathy, teamwork, and self-awareness are no longer an afterthought of the C.V. writing process, but instead, are active prerequisites for demonstrable leadership qualities.

Sadly, UK students are falling behind in this area. A 2024 NFER study found that 15- and 16-year-olds in England scored lower in socio-emotional skills than their peers in most developed countries. In this, universities must take up the baton, integrating emotional intelligence development into both academic and co-curricular programs.

Indeed, the habits students form at university — from managing stress and sleep to building communication and time management skills — don’t just help them graduate. They shape how well students transition into, sustain, and succeed in their early careers.

According to a 2023 recruitment survey, the proportion of employers requiring a minimum 2:1 degree classification decreased from 48% to 44%, indicating a shift towards a more holistic evaluation of candidates. Beyond this, data from LinkedIn published in 2023 showed a 90% increase in the share of UK job postings that do not require a university degree at all-though that doesn’t discredit the overall value of attending and studying at university – the benefits of which extend beyond academic achievement.

Meanwhile, poor mental health and burnout are major causes of early-career dropout. Mental Health UK reports that 18–24-year-olds are the most at risk of high stress and find it hardest to switch off from work. Graduates without strong, positive habits may struggle to thrive in the workplace, even if they excelled academically..

The real infrastructure of success is built from daily habits, and the areas addressed in this article – along with many others – all contribute to both short-term academic success and long-term career potential.

Graduates who prioritise physical and mental health during their studies enter the workforce with stronger self-leadership, clearer purpose, and greater capacity to thrive in dynamic environments.

Living Well is Leading Well

The link between how students live and how they work is no longer theoretical — it’s both measurable and meaningful. As the job market grows more competitive, it’s not just degrees that will set graduates apart, but the habits, networks, and resilience they’ve built along their way through the education system.

Making the right lifestyle choices during university – sleeping well, eating well, having access to creature comforts and both peaceful and “chaotic” environments –  isn’t a luxury, but a key contributor to future success. Let me know your experience of student life in the comment sbelow. I’d love to hear your ideas for boosting your physical and mental wellbeing while you were studying.

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With the desire for a calmer, more relaxed pace of life, properties in rural areas are selling like hotcakes. This is most true among younger demographics, reversing a decade-long trend of moving to the cities. And, as you might expect, families are embracing a gentler pace of life away from the noise and hustle of urban environments. 

Have you also been on the fence, wondering whether to move to the country or not? If so, I’m sharing four compelling reasons why people choose to live in rural areas and why it might be the right move for you too… 

Greater Access to Nature 

One of the key reasons many people choose to move to the country is the immediate access to nature they can enjoy. Homes are often close to vast expanses of natural landscapes, whether that’s public footpaths, local woodlands or coastal scenes. 

There are ample green spaces to experience the healing power of nature. When living in the countryside, you simply need to step out of your home to enjoy some fresh air and a restorative walk. I personally love strolling along the shore or going for a walk in our local bluebell woods to breathe in the scents of the scene.  

Also, it’s quieter when you’re there: In urban areas, parks and other green spaces are often overcrowded by locals and tourists alike. The low population density of rural areas means that people get to enjoy the outdoors without many crowds. 

Even celestial natural beauty is a lot more vivid in the countryside. For instance, the artificial lights in urban areas fail to provide a clearer view of the night sky. Streetlights in some rural areas are turned off at night and ther are many areas of natural darkness, providing opportunities for stargazing. 

Most rural homes are likely to have larger gardens around the property too, especially compared to terraced homes with all courtyards, or apartments with balconies. While you can certainly make the most of those smaller outdoor spaces, it’s nice to have a larger garden available for enjoying the outdoors.

Strong Community 

A strong community is characterised by shared values and a sense of belonging. Psychology Today notes that experiencing a sense of belonging is crucial to our well-being. The truth is that community can be found just about anywhere,e and that sense of belonging and acceptance is so beneficial to us.

In rural areas, the population is not too dense, so there are often initiatives in place to encourage communities to come together locally. Also, the rural population is not as transient as the metropolitan (where people move in and out frequently), which means most people know each other very well and have the chance to build meaningful and lasting bonds.  

It is true to a certain extent that there is strength in diversity. On the flip side, it also leads to anonymity, and people may not feel as connected. Plus, a faster-paced lifestyle leaves little to no time for face-to-face interactions. Country living is characterised by a strong community and time for friendly neighbourly relationships. 

Different Transportation Patterns 

While adopting a slower pace of life is possible in the city, it’s nothing compared to the relaxed lifestyle of the countryside, as a rural community or countryside fundamentally shifts your relationship with time. And that’s particularly true when it comes to transport!

While you won’t find regular transport connections such as buses and trains arriving every five minutes, you will find significantly less traffic, noise, or pollution in the country. Because of the reduced level of public transport, people travel within the community on foot or by bicycle to appreciate the scenic routes, and use their own cars to travel further afield. 

The to-and-fro commute is usually peaceful and less time-consuming due to less traffic congestion. Of course, there are practical considerations to this. For instance, on occasions, you may need to travel to a nearby city for shopping, access to healthcare, or to attend an event. 

During such times, the long distance and urban traffic can be both shocking and inconvenient. Depending on the area, you may be able to find public transportation options like buses or trains. Even rideshare services like Uber have expanded their availability to the countryside. 

However, it would be best to avoid the latter option. Not only is there a good chance of longer wait times and higher fares in the countryside, but ridesharing is not always that safe. This is especially true for women, as an experienced Uber sexual assault lawyer TorHoerman Law shares how over 3,000 women have filed lawsuits against companies like Uber after inappropriate touching or assaults. 

Since the journey from the country to the city is often remote and quiet, the safety risk increases so either choose peak hours for travelling or opt for alternative transport links – best of all would be using a personal vehicle to go back and forth. 

Reduced Stress 

Many people who live and work in the city can attest to what is known as ‘city living blues.’ Such areas are rife with all kinds of stressors, from environmental pollution to work pressures. 

What’s shocking to note is that presently over 50% of the world’s population lives in the city. This percentage is expected to become 70% by 2050! No wonder we are seeing a steady rise in physical and mental illnesses among urban dwellers. 

A lot of the stress that those in urbanised locations deal with has to do with the rush and fast-moving pace of life. This often leads the body to live in the fight or flight mode, the in-built survival mechanism that prepares the body to face a threat or flee from danger. 

Imagine if you were to live life in survival mode all the time. There would come a breaking point when your body would succumb to the stress, both physically and mentally. On the other hand, many of us have heard it said that country life is stress-free, and it’s certainly a step in the right direction.

Plus, the low levels of pollution and noise make the countryside more peaceful. Studies have linked urban noise, particularly from sources like traffic, with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression and behavioral problems. Country life, with its slower pace and silence, detoxifies our ears and settles our nerves. It can enable us to live longer and healthier lives.

Are you interested in pursuing a rural lifestyle? If that’s truly where your heart is, don’t hesitate to make the move; the sooner, the better! Let me know if you’ve already escaped to the country in the comments below, I’d love to hear how you’re getting on.

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We could all do with some additional storage in our homes, couldn’t we? With more belongings coming into our homes than are leaving, it’s inevitable that we end up with a fuller-than-manageable interior.

This can sometimes lead to feelings of overwhelm and stress, especially if your possessions fill every available surface or have transformed from collections into clutter. And it’s natural to feel anxious in an untidy home – evolution has wired our brains to be stressed by mess.

But don’t despair – even the smallest home has the potential to deliver extra storage space if you know where to look for it.

I’ve personally made the most of every nook in my own home, so I’m here to share some ideas for expanding the storage capacity of your home to accommodate your favourite items, valuables and essentials.

Clothing clutter

This is a category of belongings that tends to get out of hand quite easily. Simply adding a few new pieces to your wardrobe every month can soon make it feel very full.

And if you’re a bargain hunter who loves a rummage in a charity store or a browse on Vinted, your wardrobe may already be filled to bursting.

If you regularly find clothes spilling out onto a chair or maybe you even have a ‘floordrobe’, it’s time to ensure you’ve got enough storage for all your clothing.

I’ve found that a freestanding wardrobe is still a magnet for clutter as you’re likely to push shoes underneath it and pile boxes or baskets on top of it, gathering dust.

So what I’ve done is get a built-in wardrobe from floor to ceiling, which has drawers and rails inside it to offer ample space for everything. You can get a bespoke wardrobe company to supply a built-in closet that fills the available space perfectly, so that every inch is used.

Home office mess

If you’re working from home like me, you’ll know how easily the mess from your work can spill over into your living spaces. This is especially true if you’re working at a dining table or in the kitchen rather than at a dedicated work station.

So, how about fitting a desk, shelves and cabinetry on the landing if you’ve got space, in an alcove or even into the angled eaves of your loft?

Putting cupboard doors on the front of the workspace allows you to shut it away at the end of the working day to keep clutter out of sight – and to prevent you from becoming stressed by your work to-do list outside of office hours.

Entryway excess

I’ve found that a common dumping ground is around any entrance to your home – the hallway, porch, back door and so on. That’s where we throw down bags, pile up papers and kick off our shoes when we get home.

Let’s face it, we just want to relax when we get in and not have to worry about tidying up the things that accumulate around our doorways. So this is a key spot to add some storage.

If you’ve got space in the hallway, a console table with a built-in drawer can house those letters and on-the-way-out essentials. Even the smallest space can hang a key box and shelf on the wall, or you could create a ‘Command Centre’ to keep those items organised, like I did.

Could you create a ‘boot room’ in a porch or utility room, perhaps? Or even under the staircase? Built-in cupboards can keep everything out of sight, from wellie boots and coats to picnic blankets and bags-for-life.

Other secret storage

If you’ve already got those storage options in place, now’s the time to walk around your house and look for every possible space you could use to stow some stuff to keep it out of your eyeliner and lower those clutter-caused stress levels.

An often-overlooked space is above doorways. There’s probably a small strip of wall that you’re not using for anything else, so you could consider adding a bookshelf (with a barrier at the front to keep the books safely stowed) or a small cupboard, like a kitchen wall cabinet.

Do you have bay windows in your home? That’s the ideal spot for a built-in banquette, which could provide seating as well as storage space inside the ottoman.

And that brings us nicely onto adding ottomans at the foot of the bed or some sliding underbed drawers like my DIY ones. In the living room, you could choose a coffee table with a drawer or an upholstered footstool with storage inside it.

It’s possible to get opening side panels for a bath, which has storage inside for cleaning products or toiletries. You can add cabinets and shelves around sinks, or you could cover a whole bathroom wall with a shallow mirrored cupboard that keeps everything tucked out of sight and reflects the light to create a more airy, spacious feel.

I hope these ideas will help you to find some extra storage space in your home so that you can stow your possessions out of sight, thereby creating a tidier and more relaxing interior. Please share your own storage hacks in the comments below, I’d love to hear your DIY storage solutions.

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This year, International Women’s Day falls on the weekend, on Saturday 8th March 2025, making it the perfect time to celebrate all things female. Why not get together with your friends and have lots of feminist fun together?

The theme this year is #AccelerateAction, which focuses on speeding up progress towards gender equality, so it’s essential to keep the campaign at the forefront of attention throughout the year, not just on International Women’s Day. 

There are plenty of things you can do all year round to celebrate the achievements of women and girls – both in the public arena and closer to home. Keep an eye on the social, economic, cultural and political sectors and champion those women who are in important roles.

Also, if you have little ones, before you read them a bedtime story, check out this blog post ‘Realistically Ever After‘, which shares some of the best feminist retellings of classic fairy stories – definitely something to think about!

Plus, you can wear your support by choosing apparel and accessories with feminist slogans and gender-equalising graphics – that’s not just something you can do on International Women’s Day, but on any day of the year.

You may remember my Holly Dolly Christmas jumper I shared in December, featuring a fabulous Dolly Parton design. Well, now I’ve gone full-Dolly for International Women’s Day with my latest wardrobe addition: the Saint Dolly tee from The Spark Company.

There’s a whole collection of ‘Saints’ including Cher, Frida and Harry, so you’ll be sure to find a favourite in this range.

The company has a zero-waste policy, use vegan dyes and all the products are ethically made with humane and fair work practices so I’m happy to shop with them whenever I can. Plus, I have a discount code, which is IWD25 for 10% off.

The tees, sweatshirts and vests are all gender and size-inclusive unisex pieces, and I always go for a small for a slightly snug fit but you could choose slouchy oversized for comfy weekend wear.

My latest t-shirt features the ‘Phenomenally’ slogan, which references Maya Angelou’s Phenomenal Woman poem, a truly uplifting read, so be sure to check that out.

I was already a fan of the company before I found out that it was based fairly locally to me and now that I’ve discovered the brand also supports charities such as The Bloody Good Period, fighting for menstrual equity, I’ve become even more of a Spark Company champion.

By the way, if you want to flaunt your feminism at work, may I suggest one of the mugs available on the website? They always make me smile with such pretty designs in contrast to the strong slogans!

I hope you have an enjoyable International Women’s Day, whatever you get up to on the 8th of March. Let me know your plans in the comments below, I’d love to hear your tips for bringing gender equality to the forefront in your work life or personal life.

Finally, don’t forget to use The Spark Company’s discount code IWD25 to get 10% off if you want to wear your feminist principles all year round!

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Congratulations on reaching your final semester! It’s an amazing achievement to have completed a course of study and you should be commended for all your hard work.

Sure, you might still have essays to write, dissertations to research and presentations to deliver but, once you’ve done this final push to complete your studies, just imagine all the fun you’ll have and what a fabulous future you can look forward to.

I’ve previously shared some tips from a graduate on successfully completing your essays and exams so be sure to have a look at that article too but, for now, let’s consider the weeks and months after you’ve graduated and what you can do now to prepare for those exciting times ahead…

Preparing for your career

I know you’ve already got plenty of coursework tasks to do on your computer BUT this is one of the most important tasks you can do to prepare for post-graduation: updating your CV. You’ll need to put all your new qualifications on there even without the classification – that will come later.

But now is the perfect time to update your resume while it’s all still fresh in your mind. You’ve probably still got access to the list of modules you’ve taken over the past few years so you can use that to accurately describe the skills you’ve learnt and the knowledge you’ve gained while you’re writing your CV.

Likewise, update your LinkedIn profile and make sure you’re projecting a professional image on all your social accounts, ready for companies who might be planning to employ you in the future.

Applying for future roles

If you’re planning to do an internship or join a graduate programme after this semester, you’ll probably need to be applying for those positions now. In which case, try to dedicate some of your screen time to searching for exciting roles and projects so that you don’t miss any important deadlines and can get your application in now.

However, some jobs that you’re hoping to get after graduating won’t be recruiting until closer to the time so, instead, you can research the roles and companies you’re hoping to work in. This might indicate what extra skills you’ll need to add to your CV, such as mentoring (which you can do while still at college by helping new students) or understanding a particular computer program.

If you already know what course, job or internship you’re going to be doing next, you can feel safe and secure in your future beyond graduation, which is a lovely position to be in when you finish your course.

Celebrating your success

Before you head straight into the world of work, make sure you have some fun. The first thing you’ll enjoy with all your fellow students is probably the end-of-year prom but after that comes the big celebration – your graduation.

Whether you’re planning a party with all your coursemates or are having a celebratory gathering with your family and friends, you’ll need to start making some plans now. This will not only give you something to look forward to and some extra motivation to get through the last semester of your studies, but it also means you’ll have time to get graduation invitations printed and organise your party.

Even if you’re not going to host an event, you still need to let your family know that you’ve completed your course – they’ll all want to congratulate you and send cards or gifts to you. There are plenty of grad announcement examples online so browse the options or create your own design in preparation for sharing your good news at the end of this semester.

I hope you’ll have fun planning your future this semester. I know you’ll still have modules to complete before you graduate but if you’ve prepared in advance, you’ll be ready to complete your course and leave university with plans in place for your next step.

Please let me know what you’ve been doing to prepare for post-graduation in the comments below – I’d love to hear what fun parties or holidays you’ve got planned and any career goals you’re working on.

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Cold mornings, neverending grey cloud cover and days when the sun just never seems to rise – the winter can be a difficult time. But don’t worry, we’re halfway through and it’ll soon be spring again

In the meantime, let’s think of some fun things you can do with your friends, your family and on your own in order to stay happy during the last of these dark days while waiting for the sun to start shining in March.

Playing games

A board game is for life, not just for Christmas. Many of us love to play games with our pals during the festive season but all those quizzes, puzzles and strategy games tend to go back in the cupboard when January arrives. So how about taking them out again and enjoying a little fun with your family or friends?

I’ve actually been playing more games than normal this month because I received some games for Christmas; including a strategy game, a two-player sudoku set and a vintage snakes-and-ladders style pursuit board game. So, if you’ve already got games in the cupboard, this option won’t cost you anything and you just mind find that you enjoy it

Having games to play with others encourages you to get together with your loved ones at the weekends or during those dark evenings to have a bit of fun together. It keeps us away from screens in favour of real human interactions, which is beneficial in so many ways including feeling connected and cared for.

That said, it’s equally fun to play solo or against a computer if you’re on your own in the evenings. Playing online games means that you’re engaging and challenging your mind rather than simply scrolling through socials. Plus, you can still enjoy the satisfaction of completing a competitive game – even if you’re just beating your own personal best score.

Getting creative

I love doing anything that’s creating but we never seem to have time for it during the year. For example, I’ve had a sewing task to do since September and it’s still on my desk, waiting to be done.

So why not make the most of the dark evenings by staying cosy inside and enjoying a bit of creativity? It can be any kind of crafting, sewing, knitting, painting, model making, writing, drawing, doodling, sculpting – anything you enjoy doing.

I’ve previously written about why crafting with your hands is good for your mental and physical wellbeing so be sure to have a read of that article too, and pick up a project to enjoy the benefits that getting creative can bring. Have you got all the gear for a craft but haven’t used it in ages? It’s time to get out that sewing kit or painter’s easel while you’ve got spare time in the dark evenings.

Perhaps you’d like to learn a new skill while you’re getting creative. I’ve started learning to knit through online classes with Alice at Learntoknitonline, so you don’t even need to leave your house to start studying a new hobby. Knitting is the perfect dark-evening activity, it feels super cosy to be curled up with knitting needles, making something woolly.

Do something physical

I’m not necessarily talking about exercise here – although, of course, that’s another great way to boost your endorphins and feel more motivated during the winter. I’m talking about anything that you can do with your body that makes you feel happy.

A simple example is singing. Put on your favourite music with happy lyrics and just start singing along. Music can be so uplifting and it’s sure to brighten your spirits, even though it’s not bright outside this month. This doesn’t have to cost you a penny – just put the radio on or dig out a CD or LP and dust off your old sound system.

And while you’ve got the music blaring, why not have a dance? You don’t have to know any dance steps or a routine to do this; no one is watching you and you can move in any way that you like. The music is a feel-good factor and any type of movement is too.

If you listen to your body, you’ll probably find that you naturally move parts that need to move while you dance, such as stiff hips from sitting at a desk or shimmying your shoulders that have been hunched over your phone. Any movement like this is good for your body and your mind – it can feel truly uplifting to dance for no reason.

On that topic, going for a walk is great for getting fresh air, playing sports is great for camaraderie and swimming is a lovely way to feel refreshed. Whatever kind of physical activity you choose to do, it’ll be beneficial to your health and your mental well-being too.

I hope these suggestions of low-cost activities will help you to make the most of these grey days until the spring comes. Let me know what feel-good activities you like to enjoy during the winter in the comments below, I’d love to hear what’s helped you and why you would recommend it to others.

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This article is a sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content

I’ve personally always thought that any kind of New Year’s resolution should include all the benefits without any guilt so, if you’re planning to improve your health this year, why not do something that boosts your happiness at the same time?

Let’s face it; you’re not going to stick with some restrictive regime or pushy physical plan for long, are you? In fact, you might have already let it slip for a few days this month. But don’t worry – it’s not you, it’s the activity that’s the problem.

Because, if you’re enjoying yourself, you’ll want to do more of it, right? So, maybe now’s the time to ditch those January challenges and do something that you love instead.

I’ve come up with a list of thrifty, low-cost hobbies and activities that you can join in with to improve your wellbeing, both physically and mentally:

Dancing

My number one, favourite ever activity is dancing. It’s something we all do from a young age (isn’t it sweet when toddlers start to wiggle and dance?) and, at that age, it’s always done for fun.

The good news is that the fun doesn’t go out of dancing as you grow – you just need to find the right song or the right style for you. And the added bonus is that you’re getting your body moving, which is the most important thing for your health.

It’s a super frugal activity too because you don’t need anything to dance by yourself at home – just put on the radio and start shimmying! Of course, you might want to learn some steps so you can always join a class – either online or in person – which helps with your social wellbeing too while you learn alongside your classmates.

You might find that you love dancing so much that you want to take it further and learn a particular style you’ve seen on Strictly Come Dancing. If so, it’s still a budget-friendly option; the only gear you need is some ballroom or latin dance shoes with straps to enjoy those dance lessons in style.

There’s no end to how much fun you can have dancing – take dance breaks while working from home to stay active during the day or dance the night away at a wedding. If you make dancing a regular hobby, you’ll certainly see the benefits in your cardiovascular health and improve your balance, so what are you waiting for? Let’s dance!

Walking

So many health websites advise going for walks to maintain good health and, as proven during the pandemic, it’s so important that governments will allow it even when everything else is stopped. The key to getting the physical benefits of walking lies in the pace at which you walk.

The best health benefits are found when you do ‘brisk’ walking. Even just one minute of brisk walking counts as exercise so, in order to make sure you’re getting the speed right, you can download the Active 10 app from the NHS website, which tracks the amount of minutes you’ve walked and how many of those were brisk.

Walking is a completely free activity so there’s nothing to stop you from going for a stroll around your local area. Just choose some shoes that you find comfortable to walk in and get going. It’s really lovely to get some fresh air so try to fit in a walk during your lunch break at work or when going to the shops.

Plus, I like how walking outdoors allows you to observe the changing seasons – even at this time of year, I enjoy seeing the colourful sunrises and the frosty mornings. You can make it a mindful activity by walking silently or listening to a meditation app, which is good for your mental health too.

Singing

I’m not kidding when I say that singing is good for your health. Sure, it doesn’t seem like much of a physical activity compared to dancing, but honestly it’s a good workout for your lungs, muscles and posture.

That’s because singing encourages you to control your breath, which improves your blood pressure and the function of your lungs and reduces tension in the body. Much like exercise, it also releases endorphins too, helping you to feel happier. Sounds like a healthy, stress-busting activity to me!

Again, this is an activity that doesn’t have to cost you anything to do. You can sing along to your favourite songs at home for an instant mood boost. Or you can join a local choir and enjoy the social benefits too. Just imagine the sense of connection you’ll have with the other singers as you don your choir robes and perform together as one – magical.

I hope that these three hobbies have given you some inspiration for some fun activities you can take part in this year to boost your physical and mental well-being. I’d love to hear what hobbies you enjoy doing that also improve your health and happiness so please leave me a comment below with your suggestions. Thanks!

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This article is a sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content

It feels natural to use the start of the year (or month, or week, for that matter!) as a turning point for change. But, if there’s something in your life that you want to improve, getting started is the most important thing, no matter when that is. Midweek, mid-month, mid-year – wherever you’re ready to start is THE best time to start.

Nonetheless, I know that many of us like to make changes to our routines at this time of year so I’ve looked at one of the things I’ve improved since last year – my morning routine – in order to share some tips to help you do the same.

Despite it being so cold and dark in the mornings at the moment, the good news is that the days are only going to get brighter and warmer from now onwards so it’s the perfect time to start a new morning routine – if you can stick to it now, it’ll be super-easy to keep it going as the weather and daylight improves throughout the year.

My own goal last year was to get up at a set time every morning (hopefully without the need for an alarm), see the sunrise, go for a walk, eat a healthy breakfast and feel like I’d had some time for myself before my busy day began. It sounds lovely, doesn’t it? But, here’s the first thing I discovered…

It all begins in bed

The key to having a healthy morning routine is getting a good night’s sleep. There’s no chance you’re waking up feeling rested and ready to embrace the day if you’re tired out from staying up late or tossing and turning throughout the night.

So, the easiest first step is to make sure you have a comfortable bed and a distraction-free bedroom to sleep in. You can choose dark, cocooning colours for your bedding or walls and can add blackout blinds or thick curtains to block out the light. Close windows and doors to minimise sounds and feel cosy in soft pyjamas and bedsocks.

I’ve previously shared 9 tips for a great bedtime routine that might give you some more ideas on how to wind down from the day and achieve that peaceful night’s sleep so be sure to have a read of that blog post too. I won’t repeat it all here, otherwise we’ll be here all day when really, we should be getting back to the morning routine advice!

Wake up with the world

I don’t know if you feel the same but I think it must have been such a lovely time in history when they didn’t have clocks and would simply go to sleep when it was dark and wake up when the sun rose. That’s kind of what I like to do as my morning routine but, in reality, for many months of the year, the sun rises way too early for me to wake up with it.

However, it’s easier to be up with the sunrise this time of year. In fact, from about late-September onward the sun will rise after my usual wake-up time so I’m usually on my morning walk by the time it comes up, so I get to see some beautiful pink skies that brighten my day.

So, this month is the ideal time to get into a routine of waking up earlier, as you’ll be rewarded with lovely vibrant sunrises most mornings, even if it IS frosty outside. At least when you look out of your window, you’ll hopefully get to see peachy pastel skies or fluffy orange-tinged clouds, which all make you feel a little warmer inside.

Time to get active

Another bonus of getting up earlier is that you’ll have more time for yourself in the morning before the busy day begins. You could use this time to relax with a cuppa, do some journalling, meditate or listen to the radio.

OR you could use the extra time to wake up your body as well as your mind by getting a little active in the morning. I’m not talking about a full-on gym workout (although you can of course do that if you like). Instead, I’m talking about doing a bit of stretchy, some morning yoga or going out for a walk.

Getting some fresh air in the morning wakes up your body and being in the natural daylight helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, which helps you to sleep easily and more soundly at night – which we know is the key to being able to have a healthy morning routine in the first place.

I’m lucky that there nice routes to walk around here but even just strolling around the streets is lovely when it’s early in the morning, with almost no cars or people around. The rest of the world is only just waking up and you may see businesses and workers starting their day, which may make you feel part of a community with others and feel more motivated for the rest of your day.

Enjoy a healthy breakfast

When you return home, you’ll step out of the crisp fresh air and into your warm home, click on the kettle and still have time to settle down for a healthy breakfast. It’s harder to make healthy choices when you’re rushed in the morning – or you may skip breakfast altogether, which may mean you have less energy throughout the day.

Did you know that eating the right kind of food can actually help you sleep better at night? There are some things you can add to your usual diet that contain helpful vitamins and minerals that’ll let you get a good night’s sleep and give you plenty of energy during the day.

Many of these are foods you can incorporate into your breakfast such as bananas, oats and wholegrain cereals, prunes, cherries, peaches, apples, flax and sunflower seeds, almonds, citrus fruits and dairy products like low-fat milk and yoghurt. These not only give you tryptophan, vitamin B6 and calcium to boost your serotonin happiness levels during the day but also the magnesium and melatonin you need for restful sleep.

I’ve previously written about the effects of having caffeine early in the morning, as delaying your first cup of coffee can help you to have more energy in the afternoons and avoid that 3/4pm slump. So, if you’ve already been awake for 1-2 hours, have been out for a walk and are now sitting down for breakfast, you can confidently enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with breakfast knowing that you’ll still have energy in the afternoon and will drift off to sleep better at night.

I hope these ideas for a morning routine have given you inspiration to adopt some healthy habits that you’ll enjoy this year. Please let me know your tips for getting up early and please share your own morning routine in the comments below, I’d love to hear what you do each day.

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This article is a sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content

Fresh design ideas and a standout profile can make your job application more memorable, whether you’re entering the workforce or advancing in your career. A lacklustre CV, presentation or portfolio may cause employers to miss your potential and not show off your skills.

But the good news is that it’s possible to make your job application more impactful with just a few thoughtful design ideas. The key is to stand out amongst the pile of other applicants and get noticed.

If you’re hoping to change your role or step into a new career in the new year, this little break over Christmas can be the perfect time to work on your curriculum vitae, your website or even just your social profiles so that they’re presenting you in the best possible light when you start your job search…

The Importance of Eye-Catching Visuals

Visual appeal plays a crucial role in how you are perceived as an employee or potential collaborator. An interesting design of your portfolio or application can attract attention and communicate your professionalism and, importantly, your creativity.

Think of your profile as a ‘personal brand’ for you. Plus is their first impression of you, which we all know is key in any situation. A well-designed document showcases your attention to detail and reflects your personality and style. This could mean incorporating colour schemes that resonate with your industry or using layouts that highlight your key achievements in a scannable way.

For instance, if you’re applying for a role in a creative field, your own unique design with ample visuals will help to showcase your artistic capabilities before you even share details of your qualifications and training. On the other hand, subtle and elegant designs may be more appropriate for more traditional industries. Regardless of your field, integrating unique visuals, such as relevant graphics or charts, can bring your work experience and knowledge to life and can help convey complex information succinctly.

Did you know that research indicates that hiring managers often spend only a few seconds reviewing a CV or profile before deciding to delve deeper? This fleeting time frame shows you that an engaging, scannable layout is crucial in getting their attention. Elements like headings and bullet points can improve readability and if you structure your information logically, the most relevant details will be the ones they spot first.

Tips for Innovative Profile Design

To create an impressive application and CV, start by selecting a clean and modern template that resonates with your style, which you can choose from one of these examples. You can incorporate personal branding elements, like a logo, colours or distinctive fonts that reflect your professional identity. Plus, experimenting with different layouts allows for creativity without sacrificing professionalism.

Adding sections like “Skills Snapshot” or “Achievements” in a visually distinct manner can make your portfolio more engaging. Avoid blocks of text – whatever you include won’t be read at first glance and could even look tiresome. Instead, use bullet points, icons or small graphics to break up text and draw the reader’s eye to important information.

Incorporating Graphics and Visual Elements

Visual elements such as graphs, charts, and images can enhance your profile significantly. If it’s relevant, showcasing testimonials or endorsements can add a personal touch and validate your skills. You can pull quotes from previous employers or colleagues and highlight them in a call-out box.

If you have measurable achievements, such as sales growth or project completion, showcasing these metrics visually through graphs can leave a strong impression – much more so than trying to explain it with long-form text. This highlights your successes in seconds and provides a clear indicator of your capabilities plus, for roles that involve data analysis or technical skill, it instantly demonstrates your abilities in that area.

Additionally, infographics can be particularly useful in communicating your skills and experiences really quickly and succinctly. For example, create a visual timeline of your career path that showcases key milestones. You’re basically summarising all the information that would usually be in a list, making it easier for hiring managers to identify your qualifications and experience at a glance.

Images can also play a role in personal branding. Consider integrating a professional headshot photo that aligns with your industry norms. In creative fields, a more relaxed and approachable image may work well; however, more formal sectors may require a polished, business-like profile photo. You may even want to include this photo across all your social media profiles so that, if you’re Googled, all the images that come up show the same level of professionalism.

Tailoring Design to Industry Standards

Adapting your design choices to align with industry standards is essential. Research the preferences of potential employers in your field to ensure your profile resonates with their expectations. For example, technology companies may appreciate clean lines and minimalist designs, while marketing firms respond better to vibrant colours and creative elements. Understanding your target industry’s expectations helps craft a relevant and appropriate application.

Implementing a cohesive colour palette can enhance recognition and cohesiveness in your design. Research colour psychology to choose shades that evoke the right emotions. For instance, blue often signifies trust, while green represents growth. You can create a more impactful application by aligning your colour choices with the feelings you want to evoke.

How to Implement These Ideas

To bring these design ideas to life, start by assessing your current profile and identifying areas for improvement. Give yourself time to brainstorm some ways to incorporate unique design elements while maintaining clarity and professionalism.

Once you’ve redesigned your CV or portfolio using some of the tips above, you can get feedback from trusted friends or mentors who can provide constructive criticism and suggestions. They may offer insights on what scannable elements stand out and what can be improved. Getting someone to check it can help to ensure your application conveys the right message.

Finally, keep all your design details and branding information together, ready for the interview stage. You might need to come up with a presentation, so you should link the design of the PowerPoint or your handouts back to the style of your application or CV. This demonstrates your understanding of personal branding and can leave a lasting impression on potential employers.

Let me know what advice on applications, CVs and portfolios have worked for you in the past. I’d love to hear your design tips and ideas for landing your dream job in the comments below.

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This article is a sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content