Why It's Ok Not To Love Blogging All The Time

If you've been reading for a while, you'll know that I've only recently returned from a four month break from blogging. I'm not going to go into the reasons why as I have already discussed them here, here, and here. What I haven't discussed anywhere is my plans to quit. At the start of June, I was unsure whether or not I wanted to start back up again. Whether it was worth the hassle one goes through to put up and promote a post. I felt like I wasn't enjoying it, and when you feel like this you feel an intense pressure to start liking it again. I think it's perfectly normal to feel like this every now and again. While starting this blog has been one of the best things I've ever done, blogging isn't like a normal hobby (or career). It is all consuming and the roles of a blogger are never ending. There's always something to do whether it's writing, editing, promoting - the list is endless. Plus there's the pressure of having hundreds (and even thousands) of readers. So here are a few reasons why it's ok not to love blogging all the time (or at all). 

There will always be highs and lows // As with everything in life, there will always be highs and lows associated with blogging. And it's so easy to get caught up, focusing on the negatives. As long as there are more highs than lows you'll be fine. It's perfectly normal to go through a few rough patches, so don't worry. If you do find yourself hating it too much, it is perfectly fine to stop. Do whatever makes you happy.

Haters gonna hate // As with anything, there will always be someone that doesn't agree with you and wants to rain on your parade. Although these ugly trolls don't always rear their heads, there are a few things you can do to help. If people do try to spread negativity, block, unfollow, mute the individuals. Don't try and retaliate or stand your ground and they will eventually give up.

It's ok to say no // A lot of people find it incredibly hard to say no, and bloggers are certainly no exception. It is important to remember that the only person who has any say on what goes on with your blog, is you. Take PR for example, it's perfectly ok to reject a collaboration if you feel it isn't for you. If I'm completely honest, I've probably rejected more collaborations that I've approved. By saying no, you are giving the opportunity to another blogger who might appreciate it more.

It's ok if blogging isn't for you // Even though it seems like everyone is a blogger nowadays, blogging isn't for everyone. It takes a lot of hard work for very little in return, and a lot of people simply aren't up to the task. It can be hard to admit that you want to quit. But there is no point doing something you don't enjoy because you are too proud to quit.

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The 5 Books You Should Read Right Now

 My love for reading has been well documented during my time blogging, and over the last year or so I have read some truly influential books. Nothing beats finding a book that changes your outlook on life, so today I have rounded up the books that I have recently taken something from. I hope that you can enjoy them as much as I have, and if not I hope that you are able to find other books that impact your lives in the same way that these have impacted mine. 

Calm: Calm The Mind, Change The World - Michael Acton Smith // Although there isn't really much to read in this book, it is has had a massive impact on my life recently. I struggle a lot with anxiety and a quick flick through this book every now and again really helps me to calm myself down (no pun intended). I was recently chatting with a friend about this book, and we both agreed that is great to flick through at the end of a stressful day. It has a highly interactive element, and makes an excellent coffee table book if you're into that sort of thing. 

Yes Please - Amy Poehler // To be completely honest I don't know why I even bought this in the first place. I've watched Amy Poehler in many of her TV programmes and films, and as much as I adore her, I wouldn't say that I'm completely obsessed with her. But I'm so glad that I did pick it up as it is jam packed full of Amy's hilarious life experiences. It is a lighthearted, easy read that covers a wide range of topics, and can make you think about the way you handle certain situations.

The Life Changing Magic Of Tidying - Marie Kondo // I learnt a lot from this book. It gave me the encouragement and motivation needed for me to sort my life out. I didn't even get through the first chapter without feeling the urge to whip out the vacuum cleaner. It has changed my outlook on living, making me a tidier and more organised person, and has ultimately made me want to stay this way.  

Sparks Joy - Marie Kondo // It's no surprise that two of Marie Kondo's books have made it onto my list of influential reads. I read the other book over Christmas, and I purchased this one as soon as it became available for pre-order. Although there aren't many differences between the first and second book, they touch on the same topics in slightly different ways and I feel as though you have to read the former to appreciate this book. This particular book focuses on Marie's tidying methods and includes lots of handdrawn illustrations depicting her methods. It allows you to see her methods in action, so you can implement them into your own lifestyle. 

Reasons To Stay Alive - Matt Haig // I think I may have mentioned this book on my blog before, but it honestly deserves as many mentions as it gets. My sister is a diagnosed depressive, and it was so interesting to read about the perspective of somebody has gone through the same thing. Whether you, or someone you know suffers from mental health issues, this book provides an insight into what goes on in someone's head. It is an exceptionally short book, but what it lacks in words, it makes up for in meaning. It will make a huge impact on your life, and will make you feel grateful to be alive.  

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What I've Learnt From Exercising Regularly

A couple of years ago the thought of exercising would bring me out in a cold sweat. Even though I want nothing more than to get fit and have a healthy body, the thought of exercising regularly would make me feel physically sick. Fast forward to today, and I have been working out multiple times a week for almost 8 months. Eight months! Now if I miss a workout I push myself to work twice as hard next time to make up for it. I want to talk about what I've come to learn since I started working out regularly. Now don't get me wrong, having a routine hasn't solved all problems - I'm far from perfect. But it has given me a sense of confidence that I wouldn't give up for the world. So here are the top lessons my exercise routine has taught me so far: 

So much washing // My routine consists of a variety of different activities. From swimming, to Zumba, I tend to wear a different outfit for each different session. I feel as though my house is becoming a chinese laundry, with the surge of extra washing from all that sweaty gear. And it's not just the gym gear that needs washing. I feel uncomfortable if my hair isn't washed after working out, but it does get annoying having to wash it more frequently. 

Getting fit isn't difficult // Well it is, but you get what I mean. Making changes to your lifestyle (and body) isn't going to come overnight. It takes a lot of time and dedication (and a willpower you will not believe), but it really isn't as difficult as everyone makes out. Even just a little bit here and there will help boost your fitness levels. 

Healthy body, healthy mind // It is fairly common knowledge that regular exercise can aid a multitude of mental health problems. It can work wonders on those with depression and anxiety, and at first I didn't really understand how something could have such an impact. But I've seen vast improvements in my mental health.My anxiety has been at an all time low recently, and I've been a hell of a lot happier. I'm a firm believer in sweating your worries away; nothing beats that amazing feeling when you step out the gym or collapse on your bedroom floor after a hard workout. 

It's ok to take a break // Over the last eight or so months, I've missed a couple of weeks due to illness or injury (and occasionally laziness) and at first I was a little hard on myself. I started off by beating myself up (not physically obvs), but now I know that sometimes it's important to to give your mind and your body a rest when needed. Just as long as your break doesn't turn into a permanent break. 

I have never regretted a workout // Seriously. Even when I've been feeling run down, or a little under the weather I've still attempted to workout. Occasionally I've thought I was going to pass out during a set of burpees and had to give up half way through to collapse on the floor. But the feeling you get when you've finished makes crawling out of bed that little bit easier. 

Have something on hand to eat // Have something ready to eat immediately after your session because you will be starrrrrrving! If not you'll end up stopping off at the neighbouring bakery section of Lidl to buy alllll the pastries and donuts. 

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