New Year's Resolution

Have you done your New Year's Resolution for 2018 yet? If not, then this blog is just perfect for you to get started. I have included some tips on how to write a New Year's Resolution, what to include and what not to include on your list and when is the right time to write your resolutions.

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION

New Year's Resolution is a list of things you write about the things you want to change and gain in the coming year. Resolutions are there to motivate you to become a better person and to achieve something big in your life. I believe that everyone should set up their own goal and plan something good. 

If you happen to fail to achieve most of your resolutions, don't worry as there is no punishment (not that I know of). However, it will be quite a disappointment if you didn't much or at least more than half of it from your list. That is why you must pick your resolutions carefully and something that you know you can possibly do. Anyways, resolutions are not supposed to be easy, it's all about challenging yourself and see how far you can go to achieve what you want in your life. 

WHEN & WHERE TO WRITE ONE 

Writing a list of your resolutions can be done anytime you wish, even if New Years has already passed, you may still grab the chance to create one for yourself. It is never too late and what's more important is that you are willing to do something good for yourself. Also, remember that your resolution expires after the year ends and you got plenty of time to create one. 

I would suggest taking down some notes via a piece of paper to write down all your resolutions. For me, this is the safest and most convenient way to create a list of resolutions. You may easily keep the list and have a look at it from time to time. Another option would be, creating one via your computer or laptop. This is for people who use and keep most of their files in digital. 

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR RESOLUTIONS

• Think of absolutely anything positive and something that will make you happy
• Include a lifetime goal, for example, make a two year or five-year plan and you may also include some strategy on how you are going to achieve it. 
• Set a deadline if you really want to achieve your goals
• Always include your family and loved ones in your resolutions 
• Try to be creative 
• Make a goal on your savings, money is one of the most important things
• Make sure to include goals for yourself and not just for other people
• Include some places you always wanted to visit if it's possible

WHAT NOT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR RESOLUTIONS

• Try to avoid writing too many resolutions. I think 20 should be good enough as writing too many may just complicate your whole resolutions. Keep it simple.
• Do not include anything too sensitive, just to keep it real
• Never put something about revenge or plotting something that you might regret later. You may include some redemption plans but make sure that it won't harm anyone.
• Never include wishing anyone bad karma, resolutions are supposed to be positive and refrain yourself from any negative thoughts.

MY 2018 RESOLUTIONS

Here are my 2018 Resolutions, hope this would be of help. I try to focus on my personal life. In the past few years, I've been pre-occupied mainly with friends and helping others. I focus too little on myself and this 2018, I want to change that and I believe that it is time for me to focus more on myself and what I truly need. 

Goodluck on your resolutions and hope you achieve them all. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan

9 Ways To Get Organised

Have you ever felt disorganised lately? Have you thought that maybe you should start to be more organised to get things done easier and efficiently? Have you ever wonder when and how to start? Here are some ultimate tips for you to have an idea of how to be organised.

Before that, I want to share something first. In case, some of you might wonder why I created a blog like this. Well, the simple answer would be because I am a very meticulously organised person and I like to have everything - small or major things organised as I hate being messy and not being able to find my things whenever I want to. It is also because I dislike getting late for work or gathering simply because I can't find that one or two particular things.  So I decided to create this blog, hoping I can be able to help people who want to be more organised but don't know how and what to organise. The tips below are in no particular order. You may follow my suggestions, or you may also do a DIY according to your style or convenience. 

TIP #1 - SORT OUT YOUR FILES IN YOUR LAPTOP OR COMPUTER

I am pretty sure that no one wants to see a complicated and messy looking desktop screen in your laptops or computers, but I know quite a ton of people who probably have this problem. It would be nice to spare some time for at least an hour to sort out your files. Make sure to separate your data into different categories. For example, sort out your Movies, TV series, Documents, Music, Personal records, Work or school stuff and other stuff you may want to add into separate folders. How to do that? Here's a sample in the picture below.

Left picture - Sample of how to sort out your files in your laptop/ computer.

Right picture - Sample of how to sort out your Movies or TV series files when you have too much of it.

Another tip, I update my files every 2 weeks and I also back up all of my files into a hard disk.

TIP #2 - LABEL YOUR STUFF

You should consider putting labels onto your stuff to make it easier for you to find things. This method is highly recommended when you keep a lot of boxes, plastic containers or mini drawers.

There are three ways on how to make labels. You may buy a label machine from the stationery shops. Then, you type down your name, then click the print button, a piece of sticker will come out. Cut and stick the label to your designated container. Another way is to use your laptop to create a file by using " Microsoft Word". Then, type your name, and then you may print them out using sticker papers or an A4 size paper to stick it to your containers using glue or cellotape.  

I label majority of my stuff. I find it easier to find my belongings, to be honest. 

TIP #3 - GET A PLANNER

Keeping a planner, in my opinion, is extremely useful. Not only it helps you to be more organised but also to help you keep track of the essential things. Keeping a planner is highly recommended, especially for people who have a hectic schedule and precise tasks that need to be done with specific deadlines. You will be surprised at what and how much you have accomplished when you look back at your planner. Always find a time to work on your planner. You can spend less than 15 minutes to sort out your weekly plan; 15 minutes is not a lot of time. No more excuses!

I find it so helpful using a planner. I write down everything that I need to do, and I make sure I do the tasks that I have written down. I don't feel like I am missing out on anything, simply because I keep track on my planner every other day. 

I have used quite a few planners in the past, but I had only stuck with one excellent planner just three years ago. I would highly recommend "Passion Planner" because they have fantastic layouts, and there are many things for you to write down to help you organise yourself. This planner is legit, I promise!

Check out their website to find out more about their excellent planner www.passionplanner.com

TIP #4 - SEPARATE YOUR CLOTHING IN DIFFERENT WAYS

I would highly recommend everyone to sort out your clothes into different types of clothing. For example, organise your tops, bottoms, undies, outerwear, outdoor wear, sportswear and socks separately inside your wardrobes or drawers. Trust me on this, and it will make it easier for you to look for your desired clothing whenever you need them. There is also another way of maintaining tidiness and cleanliness of your clothes by storing them in good condition. I have experienced myself to have a messy wardrobe, and It is a disaster. 

TIP #5 - MAKE A SCHEDULE TO TIDY UP ALL YOUR BELONGINGS IN YOUR HOME

Try your best to find some time to schedule a time to tidy up and re-organised your crap; I mean your belongings! Nothing else feels better than to have your stuff stored in an ethical and tidy condition. Just don't be lazy and start sorting out your belongings. 

TIP #6 - STOCK UP

There are a lot of things you can stock up in your home. For example, buy some spare toothpaste, toothbrushes, toiletries, first aid kits, food supplies, essential home tools, emergency kit and anything else you may need. Stocking up things into your house is good as you never know when you might need them and if you have a busy lifestyle, it is smart to say that you should never leave your cupboards empty. 

TIP #7 - STORE YOUR LEAST ESSENTIAL THINGS IN BOXES

What are the least essential things exactly mean anyway? To put it in a shorter form, It is the "things you frequently use or never use". I can't name any particular least essential things as everyone has different preferences on the things we use and don't use. I would suggest making a list of the things you don't frequently use or even need at all for the time being. Once you're done making up your list, then you should be able to know what are the things you most likely need. After you are done sorting out, you can store your least essential belongings in boxes or plastic containers. There is no need to keep those things around in your home when you barely touch or even look at them. It can save up a lot of space, and it can also make your home look nice and clean. 

TIP #8 - CREATE A BUDGET FILE IN YOUR LAPTOP

Keeping a budget file concerning your money would be a good start to keep track of your money, including your savings and expenses. You will be able to see how much you have to spend for the month and how much you are saving. 

Let me share something. I was having a lot of difficulties to budget or to even stop myself from spending. So one day, I created a personalised budget file by using "Microsoft Excel". Ever since I started, I manage to decrease my spending and save more money. I think everyone should keep track of their money. I think this is just very essential to everyone. Just make sure that no one else has access to your laptop or computers. Make the file or the folder private just in case you lost your gadget.

Here's a sample template of the budget file that I had made. Feel free to download the file if you need it.

If you wish to download the Budget Plan template, feel free to click this link - Budget Plan to download the file to get started on your budgeting. Hope you find this is useful and Good luck! 

TIP #9 - ALWAYS PREPARE YOUR STUFF IN ADVANCE

Please take note that this is not an act of uber crazy or even close to being OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder). I would call this "Saving precious time". I believe it is best to prepare your stuff in advance. Take this as an example. There are plenty of times when you always find it hard to leave home on time for work or doing other personal errands. The problem could be you may have taken such a long time looking for your outfit, jewellery to put own or so on. It could also be because you woke up late and there is only less time for you to prepare before heading out. It is always the best choice to prepare your stuff for the next day, one day ahead or the night before. Don't worry about what other people would think, remember this all the time "Saving precious time". 

I hope you find these tips useful and effective. Please feel free to leave me a comment below or email me at michellesochan@gmail.com for any further questions you may want to ask. I will be more than happy to help.

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan

Beach Essentials

Have you ever encounter a moment when you have no clue on what to bring to the beach or that maybe you might be carrying more than you should be? Well here's an ultimate guide of what you need and what are essential to bring when hitting the beach for some relaxation and sunbathing.

I know quite a bunch of people who tend to over bring stuff to the beach though most of them do not do that intentionally. I guess some people don't know or have no clue what to bring. Therefore I thought of writing a blog about it, and hopefully, this could be of any help to anyone who needs it or know someone who does.

WHEN TO HIT THE BEACH

So when do we start hitting the beach? It has to be during the summer season, of course. If you enjoy being in the crowd, then weekends would be the best option for you. While if you prefer some peaceful yet relaxing beach moment, then you should go during the weekdays, where it is less crowded. 

Secondly, make sure always to check your local weather forecast a few hours before you head to the beach - depending on before your travel journey to the beach you're planning to go. 

Take some time to plan some beach, sunbathing sesh or picnic with your best pals. This beach day does not only help you relax, but it also allows you to bond with your friends, especially if you barely meet them due to your busy schedule.

According to the scientific experts, it is advisable to head to the beach during morning time in between 8:00 am to 11:00 am. These time around is good timing if you are after sunbathing as it is safer to stay under the sun during morning time to avoid some possible skin complications or skin disease and some other health issues that may affect you. Avoid going for sunbathing during the sun's prime hour, that's around the afternoon time.

Be sure to always apply some sunscreen from time to time to protect your skin.

BEACH ESSENTIALS (THINGS YOU REALLY NEED)

• TOWEL (for showering)

• BEACH TOWEL OR BEACH MAT

• BIKINI OR BEACH SHORTS & TANK

• A PAIR OF SUNGLASSES

• EXTRA CLOTHES (optional)

• A PAIR OF SLIPPERS

• PORTABLE CHARGER (for your mobile phone, optional)

• A SMALL BOOK TO READ (If you fancy reading, optional)

• CAMERA OR MOBILE PHONE CAMERA

• SHAMPOO & SHOWER GEL (in small containers)

• SUNBLOCK LOTION OR TANNING LOTION

• EXTRA UNDERWEAR, BRA

• COMB OR BRUSH (for hair)

• A PLASTIC BAG (for wet clothes)

EXTRA THINGS THAT ARE NOT ESSENTIAL BUT COULD BE USEFUL

• CARD GAMES (such as playing cards, Monopoly Deal, UNO, etc)

• A SMALL BOTTLE OF COLOGNE/ PERFUME (if you want to smell good)

• A SMALL BOTTLE OF LOTION (ALOE VERA - good to apply on your skin after sunbathing)

• BLUETOOTH SPEAKER (if you want to share your music with other beach-goers)

• A PAIR OF EARPHONES (if you want to listen to your own music privately)

• WATER SPRAY (this is good to spray off your face and body while sunbathing to cool yourself down)

• ESSENTIAL MAKE-UP SET (for people, who can't live without applying make-up)

• INFLATABLE FLOATS (some relaxation in the water)

• BASIC INFLATABLE PUMP (OPTIONAL - some beaches may have pumping services)

• SMALL UMBRELLA (in case of rain or too sunny and hot weather)

• LITTLE SNACKS AND DRINKS (in case you get hungry and don't want to leave your spot to buy some food or if there's zero food stall on the beach you're going to)

WHAT "NOT" TO BRING OR WEAR

• YOUR ENTIRE MAKE-UP KIT (for once be natural after spending your day at the beach, pease don't bring your entire kit, especially when you are just heading back home)

• YOUR ENTIRE COSMETICS (just like what I have mentioned above, be natural)

• BRINGING MORE THAN 2 OUTFITS (you're not doing any photo shooting, so bringing 1 outfit should be more than enough)

• BRINGING OR WEARING TOO MANY JEWELLERY (trust me, you'll feel lighter and you might even lose it accidentally)

• DON'T WEAR HIGH HEELS OR WEDGES (that is just unnecessary and it is not the most comfortable footwear to wear at the beach)

• DON'T WEAR SHOES (not unless you want to have sands as souvenirs inside your shoes)

 

TIPS ON HOW TO FEEL LIGHT AND CARRY LESS CRAP (OR THINGS!)

• WEAR THE SAME OUTFIT (wearing the same outfit on the way to the beach and leaving the beach would be for your own convenience as you can save space in your bag and the weight of your bag too)

• CARRY ONE BACKPACK OR TOTE BAG (it will be nice to carry just one bag or a tote bag so it will be hassle-free and you only need to check on one thing whenever you are away fromt your spot - if you're in the water)

• SEPARATE YOUR THINGS IN SMALL PURSES (stuffing everything in your bag would be a bad idea. Not only it will look messy but it will also give you a hard time finding your things)

• BUY SNACKS OR DRINKS WHEN YOU GET TO THE BEACH (it will make you feel a lot lighter if you don't bring your snacks or drinks on your way to the beach. Not unless there isn't any food stall at the beach you're going to or you're planning a beach/ picnic date with your loved ones)

• SHARE SUNSCREEN LOTION, SHAMPOO AND SHOWER GEL (it's good to have at least one person to bring one of these, so it can reduce everyone some weight in everyone's bag. Not unless you have to use a specified brand for personal reasons or if you are going alone)

• BRING A SMALL WALLET/ PURSE FOR MONEY, CARD AND PERSONAL ID (trust me don't bring your big wallet, it will save a lot of space storing your money and cards into a smaller wallet or purse.)

I hope you find these information useful and I hope this could help you organise yourself when heading to the beach. If you got any other questions, feel free to leave a comment or send me an email. I will be more than happy to help!

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan

Travel Tips - How To Pack Like A Pro (Luggage)

Are you having trouble on what to pack for your holiday? Let's be honest, packing has many complications. Sometimes you over bring things, sometimes you are short of some items. It is advisable to take some time to plan on what to bring and what you need to buy before heading off to your holiday. Here's a list of tips I would like to share and to help you organise yourself.

TIP #1: MAKE A LIST OF THE THINGS YOU NEED

It is important to list down the things you need for your holiday. The reason for this is that you can avoid forgetting something and you foresee whether you may be bringing too much or too less. Making a list is a must when you are traveling for more than 2 weeks to help and organise yourself. This can also help you know what items you are missing such as, your shampoo is almost running out or your waterproof bag is still with your friend. Making a list of things to bring need to be done 2-3 weeks before your initial trip. It may sound too advance but trust me, it is better to plan early than too late. 

Sample of "Things to bring" for your holiday. This sample list is good for 1-2 weeks of travel time. 

TIP #2: TAKE SOME TIME TO BUY THE THINGS YOU ARE MISSING FOR YOUR TRIP

When you finish listing down the things you need to bring, take some time to buy the missing items that you need. For example, shampoo, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, cologne, perfume, clothing, sunblock lotion, maps and many others. 

TIP #3: PICK THE RIGHT LUGGAGE

You must make sure to pick the right luggage. This is where you are going to place all your belongings and picking the unsuitable luggage may cause you to hassle for re-packing or having to carry 1-2 more extra bags. I would suggest you pick the largest luggage you have and in case you do not have any large luggage, try borrowing from your family members, friends or simply buy your own luggage (Only if you have the spare budget for that). Please also note that you need to check how many KG you are allowed to bring to the plane, this will make it easier for you to know what kind of luggage you should bring

TIP #4: START ORGANISING THE THINGS YOU NEED

Before packing your belongings, I would reckon you to organise your belongings separately in a large shopping bags. You may separate it to 5 shopping bags - Tops/ Dresses, Bottoms, Shoes, Amenities and Others (chargers, camera, equipments, books, etc). You may randomly pick the clothing you wish to bring and you can decide later when you are packing whether you need it to not. 

Sample on organising your belongings by separating them to different shopping bags

TIP #5: FIND THE RIGHT TIME TO PACK YOUR BELONGINGS

Findling the right time to pack is also important. Normally you may need to pack 2-3 times. The first is when you compile all the belongings that are ready to be place in your luggage, the second is when you place all your newly washed clothes and the third is when you will place your "last minute" things such as, amenities, snacks, chargers and other necessities. 

TIP #6: HOW TO PACK YOUR BELONGINGS LIKE A PRO

This is the part where it may became challenging for you. Packing is like trying to complete a puzzle. You must try your best to fill in the things inside the luggage and find a spot to place your remaining belongings. There are many techniques on how to pack and fit all your belongings in your luggage.

A. Roll all your clothes, DO NOT FOLD!

Rolling your clothes and pile it up in vertical or horizontal lines will make your life easier as it consume space and easier for you to see what you have. You may squeeze as many clothes as long as it can still fit.

Roll them all

B.  Bras, Socks and Underwear

These are the clothing that you cannot fold. However, you may squeeze your underwear in the tiny remaining spots. You may fold your bra into half and place them on the side of your luggage. You may place your socks into your sneakers to save space, you may place at least 2 pairs in 1 shoe.

C. Place all your amenities in a big pouch

Since most of your amenities could be liquid, it is best if you place them in a separate bag with zipper to avoid any leakage. 1 medium or big pouch should be enough to store all your amenities. That is possible as long as you place all your liquid things such as, shampoo, bath soap, toothpaste, lotion, cologne, perfume and facial wash in a small plastic containers. You can find these containers in Health & Beauty stores or Supermarket such as, Watsons, Mannings, Japan Home and many more.

D. Place all your non-clothing belongings on the front side of the luggage

It is wise to separate your clothing and your other belongings such as, shoes, bags, amenities and other things. It will be easier for you to look for your belongings.

TIP #7: DO A LAST MINUTE CHECK OF YOUR BELONGINGS

Before locking your luggage, make sure that you do your final checklist of your belongings. You must check if have missed anything important or you might have place something that you may not need and it is taking up spaces. Remember that once you reach the Airport, you may not be able to catch back home to pick up the things that you have forgotten to bring. 

TIP #8: WEIGHT YOUR LUGGAGE, USE LUGGAGE PROTECTOR AND TAGS

Before leaving your home, make sure to weight your luggage, whether you can on the right KG or you have exceeded to your KG limit. The advantage of checking your luggage weight is that you have time to remove some belongings that it is heavy or something that you do not really need to bring. I would also highly recommend you to use a luggage protector to secure your luggage and a tag in case of lost & found for your luggage. 

Always remember not to over bring your belongings, simply bring the things that you really need for your trip. Best of luck in packing your luggage

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan