Tag: teenage writer

How I’m Preparing for NaNoWriMo [Preptober]

Q'ZionLeave a comment

What’s up, everybody! My name is Q’Zion, and welcome to The Joys and Trials of a Christian Teen!

If you haven’t already heard, National Novel Writing Month (or NaNoWriMo fo short) starts on November 1st … and that means that it’s time to write a novel! In case you aren’t familiar with NaNoWriMo, here is the official website’s description of their Young Writers’ Program;

National Novel Writing Month is a fun, empowering approach to creative writing. The challenge: draft an entire novel in just one month. For 30 wild, exciting, surprising days, you get to lock away your inner editor, let your imagination take over, and just create!

Our Young Writers Program supports under-18 writers and K-12 educators as they participate in our flagship event each November, and take part in smaller writing challenges year-round.

–ywp.nanowrimo.org

In other words, NaNoWriMo is a writing challenge–both for adults and kids/teens in the Young Writers Program–to reach a personalized word goal by writing every day until November 30th! No editing or revising; just writing.

I’ve “participated” in this challenge for the last couple years, but I’ve never actually gotten my project off of the ground. However, this year I’m planning on writing a 50,000 word novel, starting on Tuesday! Ambitious, right? But don’t be fooled; I didn’t decide to do this challenge unprepared. Today, I’ll be discussing some of the ways that I’ve been preparing for National Novel Writing Month! Let’s get started!

Established my goals for the challenge

For me, NaNoWriMo is an opportunity for me to write everyday, quit worrying about making my writing perfect, have fun, and produce a novel in the process. Although my blog has significantly increased the amount that I write, NaNoWriMo will push that to the next level, and I think that my word goal will really challenge me to increase my writing skills and hold back on my perfectionist ways. The challenge is really all about having a good time doing what I love to do; write. So that’s something I plan to keep in mind throughout the entire process.

Made a schedule (sort of)

Okay, so I haven’t made a schedule where I’ve figured out the exact dates and times that I will be working on my novel; after all, every day is different. But I do know that in order to reach my word count goal by the end of November, I’m going to need to write 1667 words every day. That means that even if I can’t write that many words on a day that I’m busy, I could make up for it on a weekend or on a day when I don’t have much on my schedule. Having an idea of how much you need to write to reach your goal–in baby steps–is super helpful to break down the task in front of you without it being too intimidating.

Gotten to know my characters

In the novel that I am almost done with drafting, I pretty much dove into the writing process with the idea and built on that from there. And while that was fun to try, that project has been at a stand-still for a while, now. Since writer’s block is not really an option when you have 30 days to write a novel, I did a little (no a LOT) more planning this time around. For each of my characters I filled out a questionare on who they are, what they like to do, where they live, their personalities, etc., and I think that really payed off. Now, I can picture how each of the characters look in my head, and I have a better perspective on who they are as individuals. And considering that characters are one of the most important parts of a story, that will be super helpful for me, later on.

Established my setting

Usually, settings aren’t something I do a whole lot of thinking about when I get an idea for a story. Like with my characters, I kind of go where the plot wants me to go. But this time, my novel takes place in a magical kingdom split into 4 (meaning there are four pairs of a king and queen.) Each kingdom has their own customs, geography, and citizens with their own personalities and behaviors. Therefore, establishing my complex setting for this story was a crucial part of making my novel’s first draft as well-executed as possible.

Prepared small rewards with my family

Right after I decided to participate in NaNoWriMo, I made sure I discussed it with Goodmommy. She was so supportive that she even purposed that every time I write 5,000 words toward my goal, she’ll give me 5 bucks! And every 25,000 words, we’ll go out for ice cream! Awesome, right?!? To be honest, I think getting family support and small rewards to look forward to will make NaNoWriMo so much more fun!

Outlined my plot

Finally, I outlined all of the major events of my plot. At first, I wasn’t planning on doing this AT ALL. But I’ve had a pint full of motivation lately, thank God, so I ended up going for it. Now that my plot outline is complete, it will most likely save me from running into writer’s block halfway through November. And as a writer, that’s almost always something to celebrate.

By now, I’m quite sure you guys can already tell, but I’m super stoked to get involved in the hype of NaNoWriMo. Although I realize 50,000 words is a pretty steep goal for my first time doing this challenge, I’m more than confident that I can reach it! Please tell me down below, are you participating in NaNoWriMo this year? If so, what are some things you’re doing to prepare? And if not, have you ever heard of National Novel Writing Month?

Have a happy and healthy rest of your day, everyone! God bless you all and I’ll catch you next time! Peace in! ♡

7 Things that I’ve Learned Since I’ve Bought My (Third) Betta Fish – Reblog

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Author’s Note: Hey, y’all! Today is National Pet Parents Day, so I will be reposting some things that I’ve learned since I got my betta fish Peace. Anyways, I hope you enjoy! ❤️

It’s been a little while since we’ve gotten Peace (about two months or so.) And I must admit that the time has went by so fast! Since I’m able to stay downstairs, where Peace is located, while I do my schoolwork, we have already been able to create a bond. Getting to know him and the different parts of his big (but sweet) personality makes my heart content.

Despite the fairly short time that I’ve had him, I’ve learned a lot about the evolution of betta fish and the type of care that they need to keep them happy. Here are 7 of the lessons that I’ve learned since getting my third betta fish. This post is for current betta fish keepers, potential future betta fish owners, and even those who are just curious to see the care that these small but beautiful fish need.

1. A heater is a must.

Since bettas are tropical fish, it is required to get a heater that will keep your aquarium water evenly distributed with heat. In the wild, bettas are found in places with a temperature between 75-82 degrees. Therefore, when you get a pet betta, it is crucial that you keep the temperature (from minimum to maximum) 75-85 degrees to keep them comfortable in their environment.

2. Healthy bettas are very interactive.

When most people think of teaching a pet tricks, they will likely think of, let’s face it, a dog. While you might not be able to touch your betta as you would a mammal companion, you can still teach them tricks and play with them. Bettas are highly intelligent, therefore, similarly to a goldfish, you can teach them how to swim through hoops, jump to fetch their food from your fingers, and push a ball–either moss or ping-pong–across the top of the tank. When you put the time and love in, bettas can be super interactive, sweet, and loving pets!

3. There is a such thing as overfeeding.

Some bettas have stomachs that are smaller than their eyes, which, if you aren’t aware, are super tiny. This means that while you can feed them anywhere between twice a day to once every other day, you must do so with caution, as bettas can be overfed. This is why some betta owners let their fish fast once a week.

Still, keep in mind that you shouldn’t leave your betta at home or not feed your fish for more than 3 days, and if you ever do this, don’t do so often. While we as fish owners should avoid overfeeding, healthy and happy fish still need to be fed at least 6 days a week.

4. Many fish eat insects.

Bettas are actually known to eat insects, larvae and even other smaller fish, in their natural habitats. While most people tend to feed their betta pellets made from insects, it is a good idea to feed your betta live food such as blood worms or brine shrimp a couple times a week. Keep in mind that this is not required, but rather a couple alternatives if your betta doesn’t like pellets or flakes and/or you want to add a little more variety into his or her diet.

5. Aquarium plants (whether real or synthetic) serve for great places to sleep.

Personally, I see my betta sleeping next to or on top of the plastic plants in his tank quite often. To be honest, it’s probably one of the spots in his 3 gallon aquarium that he loves the most and spends the most time in. Many bettas sleep at night and periodically during the day, so don’t be surprised if you see your betta snoozing on some of the tank plants. 

Bettas can sleep in many different ways–some of which may look uncomfortable or strange–but this is a completely a normal behavior. So don’t panic if you see your betta being still or motionless for some periods of time. They’re likely just taking a nap. Just like we need our sleep, healthy bettas take naps and need their rest to remain happy and healthy. As long as you see their little gills moving at a steady pace, their is nothing to worry about.

6. Bettas get to know you through feeding times and frequent interaction.

Here’s me interacting with my fish baby, Peace. He loves to check out my fingers when I gently place my hand on his tank.

Believe it or not, bettas can grow to love their owners, and healthy betta fish should commonly swim up to the tank to see you and interact with you when you pass by. Most fish associate their owners with playtime, feeding time, as well as simple companionship and a source of love. Therefore, make sure that you give your betta attention throughout the day, give them plenty of things in their tank to interact with (without over-doing it or adding decor with ragged edges), and you will likely feel the connection between you and your fish grow.

7. Bettas can beg (even when they’re not hungry).

Okay, so Peace is a really awesome fish (if you can’t already tell) but he, as well as many other fish, are probably more similar to dogs than you might think. How, exactly? Well…they beg. You see, my betta will commonly stay at the top of the tank just before or after feeding time, which is two times daily. Considering that we feed him quite a decent amount, it is obviously that he isn’t hungry, but instead he just loves to eat.

So, if you see your betta begging, don’t get sucked in by their adorableness. In the wild, bettas will eat as much as they can, as they aren’t sure when their next meal will be. Similarly, healthy domesticated bettas will eat as much as you feed them, and may even ask for more, whether they are hungry or not. I know. It’s pretty crazy and hilarious at the same time.

I hope that these fun facts were very interesting and informative for you all. It was super fun to talk about bettas, which are honestly better pets then they might seem. 

Question of the Day: Do you have any pet(s)? Is there anything that you’ve learned after you got your pet(s)? Also, which fact in this post surprised you, if any? Please comment down below.

Have a beautiful and blessed day, everyone! Peace in! ✨

Happy Resurrection Day ♡

Q'Zion2 Comments

Thank God for a beautiful Resurrection Day! Me and Goodmommy, as well as some of our family, had a great time during praise and worship at today’s church service, this morning. All though we were tired from waking up so early, it is always a blessing to be in the House of the Lord with other followers of Christ.

Despite the fact that we are sinners, and we have all fell short of God’s Glory, He sent His one and only son to come on Earth and pay for our sins with the ultimate sacrificial love.

Although I didn’t write the poem the I will be sharing today (which is instead from an online article) it summed up what was in my heart perfectly. I hope you all enjoy it! 💛

He was bruised and brought healing!

He was pierced and eased pain!

He was persecuted and brought freedom!

He was dead and brought life!

He reigns and brings Peace!

The world can’t understand him,

The armies can’t defeat Him,

The schools can’t explain Him, and

The leaders can’t ignore Him.

Herod couldn’t kill Him,

The Pharisees couldn’t confuse Him, and

The grave couldn’t hold Him!

Nero couldn’t crush Him,

Hitler couldn’t silence Him,

Other religions can’t replace Him, and

The world can’t explain Him away!

He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.

He is Goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.

He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful

He is Jesus, the Sweetest most powerful Name that I know, and I L💛VE Him!

Have a beautiful and blessed Easter Sunday, everybody!

Remember that God is love, and regardless of what we do, His love for us will never falter; this is what He showed us when the Son of God, Jesus Christ, died, rose, and lived again. Then, now, and forever. 💐

Whom Shall I Fear? | A Christian Poem ~ Reblog

Q'ZionLeave a comment

Hey, everyone! In honor of Good Friday–a day of remembrance and appreciation for what Jesus did for us–I will be reblogging a poem about the Prince of Peace today. The title that popped in my spirit was Whom Shall I Fear. It’s a poem based on Psalm 27:1, about how with Jesus, everything and anything is possible.

I hope that this poem will inspire you mightily. Enjoy! 

Whom shall I fear?

When You are the Lord of lords, and the King of kings

You are good and Your mercy endures

As your many angels sing



Whom shall I be afraid?

When You are my stronghold and my refuge

You’re always by my side

And I can’t deny that you always pick me up, at the oh-so-perfect time



Why shall I be wary?

When You are a promise keeper; You speak truth with your words

No love of any kind compares

To how Christ loves the church



Who am I to You, my Heavenly Father?

I’m the apple of your eye

A branch of the vine

You set me free and made me Your daughter



Who can come against me?

When You have won this battle

Before any hand can touch me

No matter where I travel



So, whom shall I fear?

When You are the leader of the world

The many boys and girls

And pure white pearls



Thank You, Jesus

I know this to be true

Because of who You are, there’s nothing to fear

Hence, my godly fear for You



- Whom Shall I Fear, Written by Princess Q’Zion on March 21, 2022. All Rights Reserved.

Overall, I had a lot of fun writing this poem. What I love about poetry is how you can use words to paint a picture. It’s almost like a painting, but you decorate the canvas with your words instead of art supplies. Plus, any creative platform that allows me to talk about the goodness of God is one that I favor.

Thank you so much for reading! Have a beautiful day, and God bless you all! 

An open letter to my younger self…

Q'Zion2 Comments

Dear younger self,

First of all, let me say that I love you, and I know what you’re facing: I was you. While I’m not that much older than you, and I still have much to learn, I hope that you will read these words with an open heart. God has given me lots of wisdom, and like you I am learning every day. I still have things that I need to do and I still have imperfections. But through it all, God has always been there for us, and He always will be. This is the advice that I have for you.

Just be you. I know that you may look in the mirror and see imperfections. But God says that you’re beautiful, inside and out. Even with your flaws, you are the apple of His eye. Don’t ever look in the mirror and wish you looked like someone you’re not. From now on, when you look at your reflection, say “If God says that I’m beautiful, then I think so, too.” The more you say it, the more you’ll believe it. Just shine. Be the the light in the darkness that God chose you to be.

It’s okay to have just a couple friends, because sometimes “friends” can be the same people who will try to take advantage of you in your highs and abandon you in your lows. However, through it all, God is your friend. You are your friend. Goodmommy is your friend. And you might even meet one or two more friends along the way~but don’t rush it. For the Bible says that a friend will stick closer than a brother. And considering that we have a great little brother already, I know that can be pretty hard to beat, LOL.

Keeping the peace is more important than being right. I know that you’re a perfectionist. I am, too. Naturally, we want everything to be perfect all the time. Sometimes, we might think that something isn’t fair or that someone owes us an apology. We might think it in our heads. But a rule to always remember is avoid speaking everything that pops up in your brain. Every thought isn’t meant to be spoken. And if you ever need guidance, pray about it. God will tell you what to do. He’s good like that.

Don’t compare yourself to people. There will be times where you may look at someone else and think that they’ve got everything together. They may always have the biggest smile on their face. They may be popular. They may be pretty. They may be rich in money and jewels. But never forget that sometimes only God knows what’s happening beneath the surface. Rich in money is far from the same thing as rich in peace, joy, and love.

Stop worrying about what other people think about you. What do YOU think about you? What do the people who love you for who you are think about you? And most importantly, what does GOD think about you? What does He call you in His Word? These are the voices that you should listen to. The rest is nothing but background noise.

Let God fight your battle. Life might not be easy in every moment. You may need to make important decisions, and sometimes you might not know what to do. If and when these moments come, be still and listen. Let God fight for you, because He’s already won this battle. Some of the trials that we face are simply a test, where God is asking us “Will you keep your faith in Me?” In everything, God is able. And in His timing, the perfect timing, every season will pass. And with each season, God will make you stronger in Him.

With lots of love,

– Your future, teenage self ♡

If you could say anything to your younger self, what would it be? Feel free to share your thoughts in the chat. I’m super excited to hear from you!

Thank you all so much for reading! Have a beautiful and blessed day, everyone! God bless you all! ♡

Whom Shall I Fear? | A Christian Poem

Q'Zion2 Comments

Hey, everyone~Happy Monday! ❤️ Since today is World Poetry Day, what better way to celebrate than to write a poem? The title that popped in my spirit was Whom Shall I Fear. It’s a poem based on Psalm 27:1, about how with Jesus, everything and anything is possible.

I hope that this poem will inspire you mightily. Enjoy! ❤️

Whom shall I fear?

When You are the Lord of lords, and the King of kings

You are good and Your mercy endures

As your many angels sing



Whom shall I be afraid?

When You are my stronghold and my refuge

You’re always by my side

And I can’t deny that you always pick me up, at the oh-so-perfect time



Why shall I be wary?

When You are a promise keeper; You speak truth with your words

No love of any kind compares

To how Christ loves the church



Who am I to You, my Heavenly Father?

I’m the apple of your eye

A branch of the vine

You set me free and made me Your daughter



Who can come against me?

When You have won this battle

Before any hand can touch me

No matter where I travel



So, whom shall I fear?

When You are the leader of the world

The many boys and girls

And pure white pearls



Thank You, Jesus

I know this to be true

Because of who You are, there’s nothing to fear

Hence, my godly fear for You



- Whom Shall I Fear, Written by Princess Q’Zion on March 21, 2022. All Rights Reserved.

Overall, I had a lot of fun writing this poem. What I love about poetry is how you can use words to paint a picture. It’s almost like a painting, but you decorate the canvas with your words instead of art supplies. Plus, any creative platform that allows me to talk about the goodness of God is one that I favor.

Thank you so much for reading! Have a beautiful day, and God bless you all! ❤️

The Books I Want and Love | Book Tag

Q'Zion1 Comment

Hey, y’all! I hope you are having a wonderful day or night! Today, I thought it would be fun to make my very own book tag, also known as The Books I Want and Love Tag, where I will list a few books that I either have read, haven’t read in a while, or plan to read in the future. Sounds fun, right?

Rules

If by any chance you would like to do this tag on your blog, here are some rules for your post.

A book that had a really sweet ending

Okay, so I only have a few graphic novels on my bookshelf (literally just this one and Sisters and Smile by Raina Telgemeier, which I love, too) and this one was a great buy! The protagonist, Jacky, is a fun-loving girl who loves to be in the spotlight, but also loves to make her family and friends laugh every chance she gets. The whole novel was super funny, family-oriented, with positive role models and an ending that just feels right.

A book that has been sitting on your shelf for way too long

Emily Windsnap and the Land of the Midnight Sun by Liz Kessler is actually a part of a series, which is simple named Emily Windsnap. I only got about 20 pages into this one (since I found it a little boring) but it’s about a teenage girl named Emily–she’s half mermaid and half human. The genre is a mix of adventure, family, and slight romance. Although I’m not for sure about whether I will finish this book or not, it has really great reviews from several online sources, so if you are a fan of mermaids, then you’ll likely love this series!

A book series that you LOVE but haven’t finished

So, I actually got this book at Goodwill, and as soon as I started reading…I couldn’t stop! I think I read up to 100-150 pages in one sitting, at one point. I was so close to finishing bad news/good news–the second addition to the series–but I never got to finishing it. Anyway, it’s about middle school girls with positive friendships, diverse representation, and likeable characters, and lots of humor. Perfect for any girl 12 and up.

A book in your TBR (to be read) list that you want because you read another book by the same author

I mean…just looking at the covers, this triology looks pretty awesome! As those of you who aren’t new to my blog likely know, I am in the process of reading another book by this same author, Kamilla Benko, and I named it one of the best novels that I’ve ever read. The Unicorn Quest books are also raving with great reviews, and many people agree that Kamilla Benko is a fantastic author. The adventure, unicorns, and theme of sisterhood seems like something that I would like. Hopefully I’ll get my hands on these sometime this year.

A book that covers a topic that isn’t spoken about enough

Maybe He Just Likes You is about a topic–the harassment of girls in middle school–that I was a little wary about, at first. This novel is about Mila, a 7th grader who plays in her school band. After speaking with my grandmother, who is also my guardian, about the book, we both agreed to go ahead and buy it in the Apple Store. What really sticks about this one is how a realistic situation is portrayed; it’s written in the perspective of a girl that is receiving unwanted attention from some of her classmates.

Although the topic of the book is serious, it is written in a way that makes it appropriate for middle school tweens and teens, both boys and girls, as many comments on the book don’t fail to point out. It teaches girls not to be afraid to speak up if something is going on, as well as how to have love and respect for yourself.

A book that caught your attention because of the cover

Cleo Porter and the Body Electric was actually an option for the reading selections in my book club, and as soon as I saw this one, I was intrigued. When I searched for the synopsis, I found out that it was about twelve-year-old Cleo, who dreams to be a remote drone surgeon.

She goes on a mission to return a misplaced delivery during a worldwide pandemic, which sounds similar to COVID. Thankfully, this book was picked as a selection-yayy!-and I have a copy from my local library to read by next month. I’m super excited to get into it. I already have the feeling that it’s going to be a really good read.

Thank you so much for reading this short and sweet book tag. I really hope you guys enjoyed it. <33 If you do decide to replicate this post, please comment that you did so down below so that I may check it out!

Have a beautiful and blessed day, everyone! See you later! ✨

A poem to women and girls around the world: Happy International Women’s Day ♡

Q'Zion3 Comments

March 8th is also known as International Women’s Day: a day to acknowledge women and girls, God’s creations, as well as their contributions, progress, advances, and value in today’s world as we know it. Although every day is International Women’s Day, this is yet another opportunity for us to come together and celebrate each other, just as we are, in love.

Of course, I had to slide some Bible scriptures in here. It’s always nice to hear some words of wisdom. Here are a few empowering Bible Verses about women and their strength in the Lord. I hope you enjoy! ❤

Proverbs 31:26
She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

Luke 1:45
"Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

1 Corinthians 11: 11-12
Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God.

1 Corinthians 15:10
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.

Last but not least is the poem that I wrote today for (and to) women and girls around the world to read with loving and hopeful hearts. I absolutely LOVE poetry, so it’s always exciting when God gives me a new idea to write something new. All Rights Reserved.

Some may think we aren't strong enough
That we must be stout to sit at the front end
But that's far from the big picture, you see
What they may break, we can mend

For although we might not have muscles
That can strike the hardest of steel
We do have the mentality and grace
To love, to nurture, and to heal

Love that's true, love that's real
Love that's in a home cooked meal
A hug and a kiss to seal
Love that no one can conceal

And, yes, we are feminine
But that doesn't mean we're weak
We come in many shapes and forms
And even when we're silent, we speak

Sure, we are different;
Me and you aren't the same
Nor our backgrounds, hometowns, and kin
Nor our names or our frames
But no need to be disdained

Let's come together
Celebrate each other
Love one another
As we would a sister or brother

For, although we’re not the same
At the end of the day
No one can take away our love
Because love always wins
And we’re all sisters beneath the skin

- Words for Women, Written by Princess Q'Zion on March 8th, 2022. All Rights Reserved.

Thank you all so much for reading! Please take this time to share your gratitude to all of the wonderful, strong, and powerful women in your lives who are always there; every step of the way. I definitely thank God for the woman of God that He’s put in the place to raise me with Him. And you see, that’s what this day is about–appreciating the woman who have treated us with kindness and passed their wisdom from the Lord to the next generation.

The Classic, Crunchy, Any-time Snack: Cereal

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It’s no surprise that cereal is one of the best–and most popular–breakfast picks in America, and for good reason. Cereal is quick to fix, delicious, crunchy, and fills you just enough to hold you until lunch. Besides, all the time is cereal time; you can eat it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack.

And since it’s National Cereal Day, why not talk about this popular, simple, and forever classic treat.

The Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

Rice Krispies are probably some of the most delicious cereals out there. And Rice Krispie Treats are delicious. Here’s the classic recipe for this crisp treat that the whole family is bound to love.

  1. Melt butter.
  2. Add your marshmellows (can be generic or name-brand, depending on what you like.)
  3. Mix it up lightly.
  4. Add the Rice Krispie Treats into the mixture.
  5. Mix it up until everything is evenly combined.
  6. Pour the mixture in a 9 x 12 ceramic dish.
  7. You may either let it cool on your kitchen counter or in the fridge.
  8. Enjoy your delicious Rice Krispie Treats.

And finally, I’m curious: What is your favorite cereal? I decided to make a poll with some of the most popular brands. Enjoy!

Writing this short and sweet quick read was a lot of fun, and I really hope you all found it as pleasant as I did. Although I haven’t eaten much cereal lately (I honesty got tired of it after binging it for months, and I’m thankful that now, I eat a nice, hot breakfast every morning LOL) I must say that cereal will always have a place on my favorite breakfast foods list.

It is definitely a food that most of us have grown up with. And the things that we do (and eat) as children tend to be the highlights that stick with us for a lifetime.

Thanks for reading; have a beautiful and blessed day, y’all! 🥣

10 Mental Health Tips to Remain Stress-Free (and Blessed Abundantly)

Q'Zion2 Comments

Mental health is more then just our emotions. It is also how we view the world around us, how we think, how we feel, and it can even have an effect on the decisions we make. No matter what your age, it is important that we have a stable mental wellness that allows us to remain flexible, positive, and productive in all of the many different stages of our lives.

Let’s take a look at 10 simple and easy mental health tips to help YOU remain completely stress-free and blessed abundantly.✨

  • Journal about how you are feeling and what you are thankful for. Although it may be hard for some people who are struggling to focus on the positive, it can really help to write about the things in your life that you are thankful for. Additionally, write in a personal journal what emotions you are feeling or have felt throughout the day. This exercise can help you get more in-tune with your emotions and what exactly is happening in your life.
  • Distance yourself from harmful influences. One of the major keys of having good mental health is a great support system. Not only does this mean that we should surround ourselves with people who can and will support us to do better, but we may also need to distance ourselves from negative influences. Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean that some relationships need to stop forever–give yourself and the other person a break if you need it. Just remember that who you spend your time with can reflect on you and your choices. We should surround ourselves with good company.
  • Pray about it. Sure. It may sound a bit cliché. But that doesn’t take away from its truth. Prayer is powerful, and sometimes it could be something that we are doing subconsciously that could be having an effect on our mental health. It’s always a wonderful idea to ask God for help and what we need to do or stop doing. At times, we may need God to save us from ourselves.
  • Don’t bail on your beauty sleep. Seriously, sleep is very important. And not only to keep our bodies happy and healthy, but our minds as well. I would recommend creating a schedule for your week; one that will give you plenty of time to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Sleeping helps us rest our minds and bodies, helping us to wake up ready to start the day off great.
  • Practice effective communication. Sharing our feelings and what we could be going through with a confidant (the best range is probably 1 or 2) can usually help improve our mental health for the better. It can feel good to know that someone who you trust knows what you are experiencing and is there for you every step of the way. We’re humans; we can’t read minds. Therefore, making those that we love the most know how we are doing and feeling can help us feel heard and acknowledged.
  • Spend your time doing things you love. Hobbies are the things that we love to do. Therefore, chances are if you are enjoying a fun leisure activity of yours, it is sure to give your mind a great big boost of happiness. Of course, school is school, and we have duties in which we still need to fufil. However, after school is out, and you’ve done your homework, spend time with the people and doing the things that you enjoy the most. You can’t be sad when you’re doing some of your favorite things.
  • Remain present, even while planning for the future. If we want to continue to improve and keep a healthy mindset, we must learn to grow from the past and use the lessons of life in the present as well as our plans for the future. We must look forward as each day goes by, and continue to live life in a way that is productive and optimistic.
  • Ask for help when you need it. This very much ties in with the communication point, but this one goes more in-depth. There are times where we just can’t fight our battles alone. Sometimes, we must humble ourselves and ask for help from those who we love and trust. That person (or people) can be God and a family member or friend. Whoever you trust and can depend on is the perfect person to ask for help. If you can’t do it alone, why not do it with someone you love?
  • Create positive coping mechanisms. The truth is, life has its joys and trials. Some days might be better than others. It isn’t what mountains stand in our path that is the question–everyone has or has had an obstacle or two. The true question is will we climb the mountain or try to walk around it? Instead of trying to run away from and avoid the obstacles through harmful or destructive methods, we need to find positive ways to face the problem, get to the root of it, and eventually solve it. Learning how to cope positively can make for a better look on life and a happier mentality, overall.
  • Do your best to reach your goals. When we give ourselves a goal, we are providing ourselves with a sense of responsibility and purpose–something that we can work for in order to get the great results that we want to see, when our work is done. Knowing that we’ve did our best in everything that we do–despite the possible obstacles–is an accomplishment, within itself.

So, I’ll be honest–this was a pretty long post. Well, for my blog, anyway LOL. But long isn’t always a bad thing. Mental health is one of the topics that I enjoy discussing, the most. Although it is getting more acknowledged, these days, we should still be proactive in making sure that we remain in good spirits. If you have a healthy mentality, chances are that positivity will soon have an effect on our bodies and spirits, as well.

With a good mindset, especially the same mindset as Jesus Christ, we are automatically set for success.

Have a beautiful and blessed day everyone! Please don’t forget to like this post and follow my blog for more. Peace in! ✨