Pet Peeves




Apart from the fact I suffer from anxiety I'm a pretty laid back person, but some things really get on my nerves. You lovely lot seem to like it when I share a bit more about myself so here goes. My very own list of pet hates. If you happen to do any of these things, don't worry, I'll still love you! :)

People who say 'innit.' It grates on me so much.

Rudeness. Comes with the territory in my job unfortunately. I'm very lucky that ninety percent of the patients are wonderful. The other ten? Let's just say I have to bite my tongue very hard. The customer is always right after all are they not? Won't say anymore on that... :)

Another job related one. When people put their fingers in their mouths whilst talking to me at reception. Not so bad. But then they touch my desk, the card machine, the pen, everything... Antibacterial wipe NOW please!

The toilet roll being placed on the holder the wrong way round. I cannot be the only one that thinks this?! The tissue has to come over the top people! Anything else is just wrong. The penny is about to drop with someone from work. Yes it is me that always turns it round. Ha ha.

Yes I am a freak. :)

When the internet goes down. All the frigging time. Girls at work - you know what I'm talking about. Drives me potty.

When you're having a muchly needed lie in and everyone insists on disturbing you. Seriously people!? I've been at work all week. Give me a break!

Drivers. Just generally. Indicators are there for a reason not for decoration. Use them. And while you're at it please re-learn the Highway Code and the roundabout right of way!

Road works. End of.

Traffic jams when I'm on my way to work. The rest of the time I couldn't care less if I'm queued for ages. I'll happily sing along to all my cds thank you very much. Shake it off baby!

Learner drivers in rush hour traffic. I understand that we all need to learn, I've been there. But it makes no sense to take a learner driver out so they can stall their car through six traffic light changes whilst I'm impatiently trying to get to work. Just take them out half an hour later. Please.

Cyclists. When you're waiting at traffic lights and they sneak down the side of your car only to plonk themselves smack bang right in front of the queue. F*****g move! That's not only called queue jumping but you're also now gonna cause a hold up when you set off at your snail's pace.

That person that just stops dead in front of you. In the supermarket. On the pavement. Just why!?

Donald Trump. Enough said on that one.

The people that play the follow/unfollow game. I can't track my stats effectively people! If you're gonna do that then I have only one thing to say. Don't. Just don't follow me in the first place if you're only in it for the following game. If you hadn't guessed, I don't play it!

Bullies. No explanation needed.

The 'read more' option on blogs. I'm going to apologise in advance now if this upsets anyone but when I'm scrolling through my Bloglovin feed and I have to then load your website just to read your latest, chances are I won't. It just upsets my flow when I'm looking for decent posts to not only read but to share as recommendations. Okay so I have a handful of people for whom I make an exception but only because I read their blogs religiously. Maybe use the read more option for any older posts. Just an idea.

Blog posts that say they'll teach you something really useful only no they don't. Turns out when you get to the end of said post that you actually have to buy their book/online course/product/insert other appropriate to learn how to do what was promised in paragraphs one, two and three. So annoying.

So maybe I have a few pet peeves right? But don't we all.

Hope you enjoyed. Let me know your own pet hates in the comments below or drop by on Twitter.


Lots of love Justine xxx





Image via Pexels.

January: End Of Month Catch Up



I love writing these. For those of you who read my latest blogging tips post you'll find I disregard all my own rules in these catch ups. There is no structure, no specific point and writing these takes very little effort on my part as it feels like I'm just chatting to you all.

What a crazy month January has been. Anyone else in agreement? Nevertheless we've made it through - hurrah!

I'm happy to say I smashed one of my New Year goals already. I'm trying to grow my following on each of my social media avenues - aren't we all? - and although I've pretty much given up on Instagram for now, I thought gaining another 1k on Twitter over twelve months was a realistic aim considering it's grown by about 2k since I started. Although I set out January 1st with some new tactics up my sleeve, I never expected to hit the target in less than one month but needless to say I'm incredibly happy about this. Post coming soon on how I did it for anyone interested.

Work has been mega stressful lately and I'm not going to pretend here, I've really struggled to cope. I'm now feeling like I've chosen the worst time to wean off my medication but hey ho I'm trying desperately to keep my head above water. Some changes have been made so fingers crossed that it's all good from here on in.

Blogging wise I've managed to post three times a week for the entire month. This consistency is a first for me but seeing as I'd set myself the challenge I was determined to see it through. Truth be told I wasn't sure if I'd be able to manage it what with having no laptop and work being so full on, but here we are at the end of the month (almost) and I can proudly say I did it. Just hope I can keep it up. I've also worked really hard on improving my content and I hope it shows.

There's nothing exciting to share with you all on the personal front. I currently have no social life as every waking minute is used up with work/blogging/scheduling/writing but the more I hustle now the better my future right? I am determined to become my own boss and create the life I have dreamed of since I was a little girl.

My sister has booked a holiday for us which was a complete surprise. We'll be heading to Scotland in August with the boys.

February will see a few changes. Firstly the move to Wordpress which I'm slightly nervous about as it means getting to grips with a new platform. I'm sure it will all be fine, if not I have Fiona of WishesHopesDreams on hand to guide me.

February will also see the first of my featured guest posts. Not gonna lie. I am SO excited and indeed honoured that my favourite blogger has written the first to kickstart the series. Any guesses who? You'll have to wait and see to find out if you're right!

It's payday on Friday and seeing as I've been told I need to start looking after myself more so that I don't burn out, I've decided I'm going to treat myself to something. It can't be expensive being on a tight budget and all but maybe I'll book into a salon for a manicure or massage or something. Any ideas I'm all ears!

I'd also like to see if I can hop on a train and make a journey on my own. I'm not putting too much pressure on myself about this yet but 2017 is the year I want to visit new places and other bloggers so I really need to get over this anxiety.

And that's about it really. No doubt I have a million other things I want to share with you all but my mind has gone blank. Hope you've all had a fantastic month. Let me know if you've smashed any of your own goals or stuck to your resolutions. Always love hearing from you lovelies.

Until next time...

Justine xxx



Image via Pexels. What a surprise hey? :)


How To Keep Your Reader Interested: Writing Content Of Value



So far in my 'blogging tips' series we've looked at blogging when you're broke, blog post ideas and how to create a title that catches the readers eye. Today I'm going to delve into why your content should be of value and how to keep your reader interested.


Why does your content need to be of value? 


There's nothing worse than seeing an intriguing title or a fantastic header photo and then clicking the link to find you're bored just two sentences in. Sure some people might come back and read a future post, but chances are they'll never bother darkening the door of that blog again. It doesn't matter if you have the most gorgeous flat lays and layout, if the content is way off the mark then you're not going to captivate your readers and your blog won't be a success.

Your readers visit your blog for a reason. Get to know what your readers want or expect from your site and you'll be able to write with this in mind. It could be that they're looking for an answer to something or that they're simply reading for pleasure but a post should always bring something to the table. Whether it's answers, a life lesson, advice, motivation or inspiration, if it's of value to your reader then you'll stand more chance of them sticking around for more.

How can I ensure my content has value? How can I improve my posts?


First of all as mentioned above, get to know your target audience so you can cater to their needs. Knowing what your readers like goes an awfully long way so why not test the waters with a few different styles of posts? I had wanted to write a 'blogging tips' post for ages but wasn't sure how this would go down with my readers. Turns out that not only do I really enjoy writing them but they've also been really well received. Don't be afraid to try new things.

Be sure you make your point or achieve your end goal. Does your post answer the relevant question? Does it educate? Does it leave you feeling inspired? Whatever your goal, read and re-write until you're sure you've got it spot on.

Choose a topic that you feel passionate about. Chances are, if you find yourself feeling bored when you're writing, then it's going to reflect in your content. A writer who is passionate about a topic will usually derive pleasure from writing about it and thus this will shine through.

Finding your own style of writing is also hugely important. I've found that people like to relate to the writer behind the words so try to keep it real. For instance, I tend to write exactly how I speak to people, therefore I think (or rather hope) that my personality shines through. I don't use fancy elaborate sentences or pretend to be anything I'm not.

As someone who writes frequently (and believe me I'm no expert) I think no matter what you're working on, whether that be an article, blog post or novel, you should have a clear vision of what you want to say before you start.

Separate your post into segments. Have a beginning, middle and end. The beginning should introduce the reader to the topic and reveal what the post is about or it's aim. The middle should include the main body and by the end you should have made your point, leaving the reader feeling satisfied.

Other key points I try to remember when writing


I don't like blog posts that are too long unless there's a valid reason for this. Likewise too short and you may as well have just posted a tweet instead.

Keep on topic. Don't digress or waffle. People's minds wander at the best of times so cut out unnecessary words and sentences. Be sure you make your point.

Edit. This is so important. Read your work aloud so you can hear how it sounds. This is one of the best pieces of advice I was ever given. It's amazing how different an article sounds when it's spoken aloud opposed to being read in silence. I edit every post using this technique. If I'm tripping over sentences I go back and re-write.

Break a post up into paragraphs rather than having just one large block of text.

Use sub headings and keywords (if relevant) so your reader can see at a glance how you've broken up the post.


I'm not a professional writer so please take into account that all of the above is just my own opinion on what I've learnt since starting out but I hope that you find something useful.


Until next time...


Justine xxx



Photo via Pexels

Life Is Too Short To...



Life is short. How often do you hear that saying? If you're anything like me then it's on a frequent basis. Sometimes when I actually take a quiet moment to contemplate this, it kind of freaks me out. Life is speeding by so fast and I've so much that I've not yet done, so many things I'd change if I started over. Here are just a few of my rules to live by:

Life is too short to... Stay in  a job you hate.

Life is too short to... Worry about trivial things. Chances are if it's not going to be important in a few years then it's not worth fretting over now.

Life is too short to... Stay in a toxic relationship. You know the one. That fuckboy you keep lying to yourself about?! - Ditch him. Trust me when I say you deserve better.

Life is too short to... Keep up with friendships that drain you or leave you feeling negative.

Life is too short to... Hold grudges. It'll only make you bitter in the long run.

Life is too short to... Turn down little luxuries. Have that slice of cheesecake. Enjoy that glass of wine. Life takes it's toll as it is. We all need our little pleasures to keep us sane. Everything in moderation I say!

Life is too short to... Not take chances. Grab every opportunity with both hands.

Life is too short to... Not tell someone you love them. You never know when it's too late.

Life is too short to... Procrastinate. Get it done today. (Whatever that might be.)

Add your own rules to the list as you wish or see fit but most of all, live for the moment and appreciate every day as if it could be your last.



Lots of love Justine xxx






Image via Pexels

Taking Time Out Is Important Too



Hello lovelies. I hope you're having a pleasant day. Today is going to be a short post as I'm spending the day with my sister and nephew, but seeing as I've been on a roll posting three times a week, I didn't want to break the cycle.

Sunday is traditionally a day of rest so when I get back home later I shall be taking some much needed 'time out.' This last week has been crazy busy at work and I'm exhausted.

I have to give Tracy a mention as I know she'll be reading this - *waves hello. She has recently joined our team at the practice and has already become a really good friend. She's literally my new partner in crime! (Don't worry Zoë, you've not been demoted. You're still in that category too!)

I've also been busy working on various projects outside of my day job but that does mean I've left very little time for just relaxing and to be completely honest, I'm not very good at it. I'm someone who likes to keep busy and is always on the go. The only time I probably fully relax is when I'm sleeping. As my friends keep reminding me - see I do pay attention :) - I need to make some time for myself so that I don't burn out. Hence my photo above. I'm going to don my pyjamas and curl up with a book. If you're someone who is also always on the go, make sure you take some time out too.


Wishing you all a lovely and peaceful Sunday.


Justine xxx


Blogging Tips: How To Become A Millionaire




My 10 year old nephew is under some illusion that one day I will be wealthy, (does he know something I don't?) and that when I am, I've to buy him a Ferrari and have it spray painted blue. (?!)
I have since explained to him that they do come in more than one colour! Got to love his unwavering faith in me.

Before I continue I should confess. This post has nothing to do with getting rich or becoming a millionaire, but if you're reading this than I'll have proved a valid point. You clicked this blog link right? Of course you did! Because I used a title deliberately to hook you and draw you in. Which brings me to what today's post is actually all about. How to use a title to your advantage. 

I chose to use a title using the word millionaire because plenty of people dream of getting rich, of having financial freedom, of being successful and yet few know how to achieve this. Therefore by tapping into those desires and hinting at an answer, I hoped people would read this post out of pure curiosity. See what I did there? My point being, if you use your titles in the right way, you'll stand more chance of increasing blog traffic.

So I lured you here under false pretences. If you came here today really expecting advice on how to become a millionaire then apologies, no can do. Though I would imagine anything is possible with enough sheer graft and determination.

People read blogs for usually one of a few reasons. They either just love reading every blog post possible or they're looking for advice or an answer. A blog post should usually make a point, offer a solution, answer a question or be of value to the reader. The title should hint at the content without giving away too much otherwise people won't be curious enough to delve deeper and click that all important link.

Sure when you're established, people will probably read your blog posts no matter what you write about. I read posts from some of my favourite bloggers regardless of the title and content, but when I'm on the lookout for new blogs to read, they usually have to gain my attention with either fantastic photography or an intriguing title.

It's a minefield out there as it is, you need to help sell yourself and make your blog stand out if your goal is to be a successful blogger. You've got to give people a reason to want to visit your website.

Here are just a few examples of titles and how you could improve them with a play on words...

'My Favourite Makeup' or 'How To Achieve A Flawless Look'


'Monthly Stats And Income' or 'How I Made £100 Last Month'


'Life After *Insert name' or 'How To Get Over A Breakup'


'Blogging Ideas' or '20 Blog Post Ideas For You To Use'


Although some people will be curious enough to read the first post, three times as many will probably be skimming through Bloglovin looking for decent makeup and/or makeup tips on how to achieve a flawless looking face.

Some people might genuinely read posts on stats and income but I for one would be more inclined to see how I too could make £100. Money and sex sell. It's a well known fact.

A personal post is always nice to read but if you can offer your readers advice on how to get over heartbreak whilst sharing your story then you're onto a winner. Don't we all go through heartache? It's something we can all relate to at some point or another. All the more reason to share your tips on how to get through that horrible 'post relationship' phase.

You might recognise the last example. Although there is nothing wrong with the title 'Blogging Ideas,' the second one promises twenty examples that your readers can actually use. It's just about really selling your content.

I'm getting better (or so I hope) but it's as much a learning curve for me as it is for you so it should be noted that I am not an expert by any means. Anything I share is just my own take on blogging from lessons learned and experience. Hope this post is helpful or at least gets you thinking.


Until next time... Justine xxx


P.s So far in my 'Blogging Tips' series we've looked at blogging when you're hard up, and I've shared some blog post ideas along with some tips on how to generate your own. If you've missed out then don't worry. You can catch up by clicking on either link below.


Blogging On Zero Budget


20 Blog Post Ideas For You To Use



Photo via Pexels

Someday I will...



Once a dreamer, always a dreamer.

Someday I will...

Go into Waterstones and see my book in the 'Bestsellers' chart. (Yeah right but a girl can dream. Finishing the manuscript would be a great start!)

Open a bridal shop with friends.

Design an eco bridal range. (I'm just becoming more and more aware of 'fast fashion' and I don't like it one little bit. Don't know what I mean? Go Google it please! Education is the key to change.)

Buy a house. Not a massive one. I'm not greedy. One with a driveway and garden might be nice.

Own an Audi. I'm in love with the A5. Sorry TT you've been bumped down the list.

Fall in love again.

Get married. (If someone will have me!!)

Become a mother. I adore my nephews but I want to have my own munchkins too.

Become my own boss. Like you didn't know about this one! ;)

Meet my online friends from around the world. Yes that's all of you I'm talking to!

Write a movie script. With my brother.

Attend the Oscars. (Way out there I know but hey I never pretended to be under ambitious did I?)

Grace the cover of a magazine, preferably one to do with blogging or writing.

Stop dreaming... Hardly likely let's face it. And anyway if I did, where would I get my kicks from then?


Until next time...


Justine xxx


Let The Haters Hate: You Can't Please Everyone





Fact. You're going to come across people in life that don't like you. You're going to come across people who belittle your dreams and ambitions. Who leave you feeling deflated. As much as we may dislike this, we also can't control these things. What we can control however is how we react.

For a very long time - too long - I was trying too hard to be liked, because let's face it, we all want to be liked don't we? And when people didn't like me for one reason or another, it kind of hurt. What was wrong with me? It usually turned out that it was just a personality clash but it was a while before I could accept this. I'm a little older and wiser now, and with that has come the realisation that not only will everyone not like me but that I'm also okay with that. And I really am. So what if the next door neighbour's sister's cousin's best friend's nephew hates me and my blog. (Totally made that up btw. I don't even know if my neighbour has a sister but anyway you get my point or so I hope.)
If I'm happy doing what I'm doing and I'm not harming anyone then I'm gonna carry on doing it. If I want to dye my hair bright pink and get a tattoo then I'll do that too!
It leaves me feeling bitter when I get excited about something (especially blog related) and then someone goes and knocks the wind out of my sails. I usually have a moment afterwards where I doubt myself but then I pick myself back up because I'm certainly not going to let it stop me from striving forwards. Creating content for GGD gives me a sense of purpose and that in itself gives me a sense of happiness and contentment.

Do not let the haters stop you from going for what you want.


Life is too damn short to worry what people think. I've wasted years holding back for fear of disappointing people. And where has that got me? I'll tell you where. No-where! So I'm encouraging you now, to do as I am. To go out, to live your dreams, to do whatever it is that you want to do in life. Remember to be kind to others along the way, treat others as you wish to be treated but don't stop working towards your own dreams should someone come along and treat you badly or dismiss your ambitions. Don't let the negativity dim your shine. This is your life. The haters will hate for one reason or another regardless and I'm not about to waste time or energy questioning why, nor should you.

Hope you all have a fabulous week.


Lots of love Justine xxx








Image via Pexels

20 Blog Post Ideas For You To Use



This time last week in my Blogging On Zero Budget post, I promised that I'd share some of my blog post ideas with you all. Always one to keep to my word and thus today's post.

I'm constantly on the lookout for inspiration and I find literally anything and everything can kick start my creative streak. If you struggle to find ideas then I have a few tips.
I bet most of you scroll through Instagram hitting the like button every so often right? Well next time you're on there, really take notice of the images. Question the possibilities that the image holds and the story behind it. Learn to not just look at a pretty photo but to pay attention to the individual items, the colours, or the wording if it's a quote. Jot down notes and any thoughts that pop into your head. Flick through magazines and do the same. Read other blogs. Even just becoming more aware of your everyday surroundings will give you ideas. Once you learn to be more observant it's amazing the things that you'll notice that you might not have done before. There is inspiration literally everywhere.

Take the above image for example. It's not one of mine, it's from Pexels. But I can look at this one image and come up with tons of topics to write about just by studying it. Here are just a few ideas: Blogging Tips, How To Better Organise Your Work Station, How To Better Organise Your Life, My Perfect Working Environment, Getting Life's Priorities Right, Living For The Moment, Items That Inspire Me, Favourite Quotes, etc etc.

Another tip is to challenge yourself with a writing prompt or maybe get someone else to challenge you. Give yourself a starting sentence or even just one word and then write a post around it. You don't have to publish it, but it's good practice for honing your writing skills. Once you really get into the swing of things you'll find that you'll be able to write about anything and still make it sound interesting. I always carry a notebook or scrap of paper around in my handbag just so I can jot down anything that comes to mind. As they say, practice makes perfect.

If any of you would like me to share some writing exercises in the future then please get in touch and I'll post some on here.

If you still need a bit of help in the inspiration department then here are those twenty post ideas I promised. You'll be glad to hear that none of them involve spending any money but some will require time and possibly some research on your part! You'll find that I'll be using some of these particular topics myself in the future but that doesn't mean you can't too. Feel free to use any. Happy writing.


1. What It Feels Like To Be Me (or rather you in this case)


2. Firsts


3. Why It's Okay To Be Different


4. How To Better Budget Throughout The Year


5. Why And How Blogging Can Open Doors For You


6. Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help


7. Blag Confidence Until It's Real


8. What It Really Means To Be A Blogger


9. How To Better Use Social Media (Scheduling)


10. How To Launch A Newsletter And Why You Should


11. What Are Affiliate Links And Why Should I Use Them?


12. Change Can Do You Good 


13. Where Do You Want To Be In 12 Months?


14. Why Researching Reaps The Rewards


15. Why Investing In Yourself Will Pay Off


16. Free Online Courses To Improve Your Skill Set


17. Taking Responsibility For Your Life (and/or dreams if you prefer)


18. I Feel Guilty For...


19. How To Better Manage Your Time


20. Life Is Too Short To...




If you like this post then please do let me know and I'll share some more blog post ideas very soon.


Justine xxx


P.s It's almost weekend! Yay!




Image via Pexels

January Update...




How is everyone? I can't quite believe that we're into the second week of January already can you? This particular post is just going to be a 'filler in' as I like to call them. An update on what's going on just because I love sitting down and rambling on to you all.

I've gone all obsessive with my new years goals and have taken to ordering some super pretty Laura Ashley lever arch files just so that I can organise my life a little better.

A little late to the 'Stranger Things' party, this is one TV show that I thought I'd never get into. It's not that I thought it would be crap, I've heard nothing but rave reviews on social media. I just don't like anything that creeps me out in the slightest and let's face it if you've seen this show, it does have some pretty 'jumpy' moments. No? Is that just me?

Work has been a bit of a shock to the system after having some blissful time off but as I'm someone who needs routine I'm sort of glad to be back. My anxiety levels usually shoot through the roof when I have too much time on my hands but surprisingly I managed okay this Christmas. In fact I'd go as far as to say this was the best Christmas I've had - mental health and otherwise - in as long as I can remember.

Usually I'd recommend a good book in one of these posts but I have done no reading whatsoever this last couple of weeks. I've got so many novels that I'm just itching to dive into (seriously, you ought to see the pile in my bedroom) but I've been busy doing other things instead.

You all seemed to love my Blogging On Zero Budget post which I'm thrilled about. It was one that I really enjoyed writing and I hope it was helpful to anyone in a similar circumstance to me.

And that's about it I suppose. I've not really got much else to share with you all right now. Hope this week treats you kindly. I'm off to enjoy some pizza and a glass of wine!

Justine xxx







Image via Pexels

Women That Inspire Me




Margaret Wilding


As many of my frequent readers will already know, my nanna sadly passed away a week before her ninety second birthday. That said, I count myself lucky that I got to know her for thirty odd years. Growing up she wasn't just someone I adored, I also looked up to her and was in awe of her talents for baking, sewing and of her love for others. She was the most selfless and generous person I have ever known. As a child I knew her to be a warm, loving human being but once I was an adult and I got to truly know her, I appreciated her even more. She didn't get to live out all of her dreams for one reason or another and she certainly wasn't happy all of the time but I never heard her complain. She still put everyone else before herself. She taught me many valuable life lessons including not to settle for anyone or anything. She empowered me and gave me an inner strength I didn't know I had. She made me believe in myself when others didn't because she believed in me. She taught me that I should go for my dreams and that one day I would achieve them too. My only regret is that she isn't alive to see me make them a reality but I still carry her with me in my heart every single day.

Zoe Sugg


Every time I mention this lady's name in 'non-blogger' circles I get confused looks, but stick me with a group of teenagers, bloggers or YouTube fanatics and - love or hate her - they'll all be nodding with recognition at the name 'Zoella.' I say love or hate because by all accounts Zoe is a little bit like Marmite. For every handful of fans that adore her, there's always a minority that can't stand her whether that be down to jealousy or the simple fact that she's just not their cup of tea. Which is fair enough. I'm fast learning that you can't make everyone in the world like you and that's okay.
Zoe Sugg is the success story that most (bloggers) want for themselves. She features in issue 11 of Blogosphere and editor Alice Audley hits the nail on the head when she remarks that Zoe isn't just a 'tween idol' but also a self made social media powerhouse. By all rights Zoe is a business woman who has worked hard to build a multi-million pound empire. That in itself should motivate and inspire me but it's not just that. Even though Zoe suffers with anxiety, she continues to work in an environment that must surely only heighten it. If she has learnt to cope then I can surely do the same. I often read her interviews and am always left feeling that little bit more empowered and capable of achieving my own dreams. Why? Because not only is Zoe the epitome of success, but she's the loveable 'girl next door' who encourages self belief, positivity and going for what you want in life. I have the 'Design A Life You Love' motto sat on my desk to remind me everyday that I am capable if I continue to work hard.

The Spice Girls


Some of you are probably laughing at this. Some cringing. But I'm still coming out. Yes I am a die hard Spice Girls fan and I'm not ashamed to admit it. It was never just about their music either although I love every song they ever recorded. It was more the feeling that being a Spice Girl fan gave me. Every time they put their stamp on a product, their faces appeared on tv or when they hollered girl power to any and everyone, I was filled with a sense of - Yeah! I can do whatever I want in life if I believe in myself enough. And that I suppose was their intention with the girl power message they were portraying to girls nation and worldwide. They made me hopeful for my future, they made me believe in girl power and in myself. I was going through some tough times while they were at the height of their fame but having them to look up to made all the difference. I am and always will be, a Spice Girl through and through!


There are of course many other women who have inspired me over the years but the above are women who have truly stood out for me. I only hope that one day I might inspire someone somewhere in the same way.


Who has inspired you? If you have your own story to share then please share with us all in the comments below.


Justine xxx







Blogging On Zero Budget



Like many others the world over, I have debts that I'm trying to pay off and I can't be spending money that I don't actually have. Nor do I want to go out frittering my wage when I've had to make so many cutbacks as it is. What I need is to get myself out of the almighty large hole I've dug and it's going to take time. That said, I still, like a lot of you, have a yearning for success. I want to write, to blog, to achieve my endless lists of goals and I point blank refuse to let my dreams dwindle because of my lack of resources. Plenty of successful people come from nothing and still achieve great things. If they can do it so can we!

Currently I have no laptop and no working camera. I also can't afford to go out every month buying fancy props or the latest 'must have' makeup items to review. Yet here I am still showing you that blogging can be done if you want it enough.

If you're reading this then I'm assuming you have either no budget, are just plain curious or are one of my lovely loyal readers that frequent my blog. Whichever category you fall into I hope this post gives you something useful to take away.

All you really need to run a blog is content, photos and an electronic device to upload all these on. Sounds simple when you put it like that right?
If you're reading this and you've never blogged before but want to give it a whirl, you can join Blogger or Wordpress for free. You can also find many templates online on various sites to download free of charge. (I know Blogger have a few.)


Content




It's a given that the content is purely up to you to provide. If you have no money to buy props or items to review then stick to things you can write about without these. For instance posts on life, personal stories, relationship advice, blogging tips etc. I'll be sharing a post in the near future with plenty of ideas. Just make sure that whatever topic you do choose, that you write passionately about it. Any topic can become a must read when it's written with heart and written well.



Photos





You need decent photos. This is another given. For ages (since I began blogging tbh) I struggled as my old phone took such poor quality pictures and I had no clue about stock images. When I look back over posts I'm horrified at some of the photos I've published but it's all a learning curve I suppose. The downside to shoddy looking photos is that your blog will more likely get overlooked and hek that's not what we want right? Alas you need not worry as I'm going to share my secret with you all. Pexels. I can't praise this site enough. Free stock images and you don't even need to credit the photographer. I'm a little weird in that I like to credit EVERYBODY including Pexels so if a photo hasn't been taken by me, it'll always say at the bottom of a post. No point me pretending to be something I am not. I am very much an amateur photographer nor am I ashamed to admit it. If you take only one thing from this post it's that Pexels is worth checking out.


Laptop





Laptop or computer. PC or Mac. We all need something to upload our posts on. Like I mentioned earlier, I don't have a laptop. Currently? I'm sat typing this at my work computer. Do I like staying later at work? No. But I want to blog and I want to nail my goals so I'll keep on until I can afford to buy the equipment I need. If you don't have a work computer or a laptop you can borrow, then visit your local library. Most have computers with internet access.

And voila. There you have it. The three (or thereabouts) main things you need to get going with a blog even when you have no money.

Did you find this helpful? How do you blog on a budget? Feel free to share your own ideas in the comments section below.


Love from Justine xxx




Images via Pexels

Why I've Decided To Wean Off My Meds




New Year's Day was a lot of things for me. Productive and motivational yes. But it also marked the first day that I started to wean off my medication. It was a tough decision I must admit.

Which was going to be the lesser of two evils? No meds and risk going off the rails again? On a downwards spiral back into depression? Or stay on them and try to live in my more 'fuzzy' world, more relaxed somehow even though constant fatigue and forgetfulness plague me?

Most of those closest to me are reluctant at my decision and I get it, I really do. They've seen me through so many ups and downs over the years and I know how exhausting it has been for them. After all, I am shall we say 'more balanced somewhat' when I am on my meds. But here's the thing. I hate that I have to rely on medication. I want to try alternative therapies. I feel more ready now than I have in a long time. I've become acutely aware that I'm throwing 300 mg of a chemical into my body everyday and although I was okay with this in the beginning - I didn't have much choice - I'm not so okay with it now. Things are different. I'm different. 

I don't doubt that medication partly saved me from myself. But that doesn't mean I want to survive on it for the rest of my life. The G.P and I have agreed to reduce my dose gradually, but three days in and I'm already feeling the effects. I've been here before so I know what to expect. Withdrawal isn't a pleasant thing and I'm expecting my anxiety levels to worsen, but I'm also more prepared this time around. This is my choice. There will be no burying my head in the sand. I know this is going to be a rough ride but I intend to tackle any issues head on with techniques learnt in my therapy sessions.

I'm not by any means saying medication is a bad thing. And I certainly wouldn't want anyone reading this to feel that they too should stop taking their meds. This is a personal decision that I feel is right for me, just like it was right for me at the time to rely on medication when I was at my lowest.

Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? I'd love to hear what coping mechanisms you use.



Justine xxx




Photo via Pexels

New Year, New Me





2016 was supposed to be the year. I had goals that I intended to smash, so many good intentions. But then the days turned into weeks, the weeks into months and the next thing I knew Christmas was upon us and I hadn't done half of what I had planned to do. So I am now sat contemplating goals for 2017 and realising that many are the same as last years. What does this teach me? That I am the worlds worst procrastinator maybe?!

I've read many blogs lately and I'm pleased to report that the majority of you seemed to kick ass with most of your goals. But for those that didn't, I have one thing to say,

'Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today.' 


In other words, it's no good making a list of goals if we don't set a deadline for them. One of my fears is that life will pass me by and I won't have achieved half the things that I want to do. I guess it's time to grab the bull by the horns, take responsibility for my life and for my dreams. 

This January sees a freshly made list of resolutions and goals with a time frame to complete each in. I shan't bore you all with the details (unless anyone actually asks) but one major change is going to be GirlGoneDreamer. I have in mind a path that I want to take it in and it's high time I started working harder on that instead of posting sporadically. It is after all supposed to be my author platform. Dare I say it? I have been a lazy blogger and I have no valid excuses so I'm not gonna feed you any bullshit. 

I hope this post inspires some of you to really go for it this year. Maybe you might attach a time frame to your own goals too. 


Do you have any big plans for 2017? I'd love to hear them. Share your own goals and thoughts in the comments section below. 


Happy New Year! 


Justine xxx

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