<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[Give Them Romance: #MoodMindset]]></title><description><![CDATA[Your dose of manifestation and mindset tips, self-love, and personal development.]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/s/moodmindset</link><image><url>https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!TnbV!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7b0c5232-0c1f-4d83-9c06-d03fc9fa5e98_1280x1280.png</url><title>Give Them Romance: #MoodMindset</title><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/s/moodmindset</link></image><generator>Substack</generator><lastBuildDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:17:03 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.givethemromance.com/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><copyright><![CDATA[Corner of Press]]></copyright><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><webMaster><![CDATA[givethemromance@substack.com]]></webMaster><itunes:owner><itunes:email><![CDATA[givethemromance@substack.com]]></itunes:email><itunes:name><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></itunes:author><googleplay:owner><![CDATA[givethemromance@substack.com]]></googleplay:owner><googleplay:email><![CDATA[givethemromance@substack.com]]></googleplay:email><googleplay:author><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></googleplay:author><itunes:block><![CDATA[Yes]]></itunes:block><item><title><![CDATA[It's Never Too Late...]]></title><description><![CDATA[Don't buy into the hype that time is running out. Instead, dive in with an openness and willingness to live your dream life at any age.]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/p/never-too-late-end-of-year-reflection-manifestation</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.givethemromance.com/p/never-too-late-end-of-year-reflection-manifestation</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 30 Dec 2024 13:31:19 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development. Enjoy today&#8217;s post, an end-of-the-year reflection co-written by Sujeiry and Krista titled &#8220;It&#8217;s Never Too Late&#8230;&#8221; Because it&#8217;s never too late to live your dream life!</em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><div><hr></div><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 424w, https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 848w, https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 1272w, https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" width="478" height="318.6666666666667" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:4000,&quot;width&quot;:6000,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:478,&quot;bytes&quot;:null,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;it's never too late to live your dream life end of the year reflections&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpg&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="it's never too late to live your dream life end of the year reflections" title="it's never too late to live your dream life end of the year reflections" srcset="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 424w, https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 848w, https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 1272w, https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544995228-a7a3abc39d89?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wzMDAzMzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxkcmVhbXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzM1NDcxNzc0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a><figcaption class="image-caption">Photo by <a href="true">Alex Nemo Hanse</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com">Unsplash</a></figcaption></figure></div><p>It&#8217;s never too late,&#8221; people say. I didn&#8217;t believe that until recently. I thought it would be too late if I didn&#8217;t fulfill my dreams by a certain age. I dreaded getting older, every birthday serving as a reminder of what I had not yet accomplished. I dreaded New Year&#8217;s Eve as it magnified my perceived failures. I wanted to crawl into a ball and give up hope that the New Year would be any different.</p><p>This year, however, I&#8217;m excited for what&#8217;s to come because I've learned about conscious creation (manifestation). I understand that my consistent thoughts and beliefs shape my perception and create my experiences. I&#8217;ve intentionally discarded limiting beliefs about aging, relationships, success, and timelines and shared these insights with Krista&#8230;</p><p><em><strong>What I love about the lessons we&#8217;ve learned is that they mostly took place in our 40s.</strong></em></p><p><em>Sujeiry and I have known each other since our chaotic late 20s when 40 felt so far away and time felt infinite. Since then, we&#8217;ve both lived a lot of life. And our lives haven&#8217;t always looked like that of others with the &#8220;typical checkboxes.&#8221; So it&#8217;s easy to see how we could have fallen into the trap of &#8220;it&#8217;s too late.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>While I took the bold step of moving cross country at 39, my dreams of a vibrant, active life where all my dreams came true and I lived happily ever after came crashing down when six months later the world ground to a halt due to COVID. Time evaporated right in front of my eyes. And if I&#8217;m honest, I struggled.</em></p><p><em>How did I move through? It wasn&#8217;t easy, but I tried to find as much joy, adventure, and fulfillment as I could. Right where I was. I did a LOT of work on myself through therapy and coaching so that I could embrace new opportunities, challenges, and experiences from a grounded place. And I leaned into hope that the dreams and desires of my heart would find their way to me in their own time.</em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><p>Thanks to a shift in perspective, amazing experiences and opportunities are flowing into my life and Krista&#8217;s both individually and as business partners. This can be the case for you as well. Just remember that <strong>it&#8217;s never too late to&#8230;</strong></p><h3><strong>Start a business, change careers, or launch a project</strong></h3><p>Krista and I started Corner of Press after an overdue video call. We both felt inspired to write again and venture into romance novel writing. As former journalists, this was unchartered territory, but we took the plunge anyway, publishing the first Corner of Press romance novella nine months later. Since 2023, we&#8217;ve learned tons and have officially formed our LLC. And at 40-something years old! Because it&#8217;s never too late to start a business, change careers, or pursue a passion!</p><p>This new year, make a list of your interests. Take a chance on yourself by taking the first step to explore your heart's desires. If we can do it, you can too!</p><h3><strong>Get back into the dating pool</strong></h3><p>It doesn&#8217;t matter how long it&#8217;s been since you&#8217;ve dated. If you want to make a love connection, get back out there! Whether you join a dating app, go to singles events, or immerse yourself in activities and meet someone special, it&#8217;s never too late to start over in love.</p><p><strong><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/5-love-lessons-from-love-is-blind">ALSO READ: 5 Love Lessons from Love is Blind</a></strong></p><p>Focus your energy on loving thoughts. Repeat affirmations such as, &#8220;I am lucky in love,&#8221; or &#8220;I am attracting love easily,&#8221; as soon as you wake up and drift off to sleep. Write a list of what you want in a romantic partner and reread it daily with optimism. Believe that it&#8217;s never too late to find love, and love will find you!</p><h3><strong>Find your girl tribe</strong></h3><p>Ten years ago, I moved to Long Island, NY, and struggled to find my girl tribe. I would constantly complain about not having friends here, therefore, I didn&#8217;t connect with any girlfriends. That is how powerful the mind is. The more I focused on my old belief that it was difficult to make friends later in life, the more impossible the task seemed. At 44, I decided to drop that notion. Six months later, I met my first friend at the grocery store. Since then, I&#8217;ve continued growing my tribe of local, like-minded friends who align with my values and are also fun AF.</p><p>So, it&#8217;s never too late to meet your people. Remove this doubt from your mind and put yourself out there!</p><h3><strong>Learn yourself and shift your mindset</strong></h3><p>The beliefs we hold about ourselves and how we self-identity shapes our life. If you constantly think or say to yourself, &#8220;I&#8217;m always broke,&#8221; you will perceive the world from a place of lack. If you dwell on heartbreak or believe you will end up alone, it&#8217;ll be difficult to experience a committed, long-term relationship. That&#8217;s because our thoughts become things! What we consistently think about, even subconsciously, creates our life experiences.</p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><p>If you feel stuck, it is not too late for a mindset shift. Try affirmations, visualizing your dream life, and/or journaling about what you wish to experience. Make this a regular practice. Learn to stay in the present moment with meditation or by reminding yourself to stay present. (I do this by asking myself, &#8220;Where are you?&#8221; I then focus on my present environment to snap me out of anxious or fearful thoughts about the future). This mindset shift can completely change your life!</p><h3><strong>Travel the world</strong></h3><p>There&#8217;s nothing like charting your own path, creating your own agenda, and moving as you please on a vacation. While I love traveling with some of my favorite travel partners, some of my favorite trips were just me, myself, and I. When I traveled to Paris solo at 35, it was one of the most freeing and empowering experiences. I relished the chance to cultivate my own unique experience. I meandered at my own pace at museums, not subject to anyone else&#8217;s schedule. When I needed to sleep in, I pivoted the next day without worry of disrupting anyone else&#8217;s plans. I indulged in every crepe and croissant to my heart&#8217;s desire.</p><p><strong><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/5-minute-self-care-ideas-self-love">MUST READ: 5-Minute Self-Care Ideas </a></strong></p><p>Is there somewhere you&#8217;d love to explore that you haven&#8217;t? You don&#8217;t have to wait for your bestie. Pick a date, pick a location, and just go! Life is too short to wait on anyone else. You are responsible for you!</p><h3><strong>Learn a new skill</strong></h3><p>As a child, I never learned how to swim. Because I can barely do a doggy paddle, I either avoided or was very cautious around water, which kept me from fully enjoying some experiences - like snorkeling without a life jacket! Just this fall I decided to sign up for a swim clinic! I felt so proud of myself as I learned the basics and look forward to taking more classes and gaining more skills!</p><p>Whether it&#8217;s swimming like me, or learning a new language or instrument, it&#8217;s never too late. You don&#8217;t have to be the next Katie Ledecky or become completely fluent in French, or a concert pianist. You could set a goal of being able to swim in the deep end of the pool on vacation. Or being able to converse with the server at a restaurant in Paris. Or being able to play some tunes for your friends during the holidays. Learn for the passion of learning for YOU!</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif" width="308" height="308" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:480,&quot;width&quot;:480,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:308,&quot;bytes&quot;:1571716,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;it's never too late end of the year reflection&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="it's never too late end of the year reflection" title="it's never too late end of the year reflection" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vaIq!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F50112aa7-87c5-41ae-a3ba-b4a491b197f0_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Enter the new year with our golden nuggets in mind. Learn more about manifestation and mindset, and how to do things differently. Throw away old beliefs and create new ones that benefit you and your desires. Create a plan for navigating the tough times. Dive in with an openness and willingness to live your dream life at any age. Because it&#8217;s never too late to love and value yourself, shift your mindset, and create the life that you desire.</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[12 Best Budget Solo Date Ideas to Deepen Your Self-Love]]></title><description><![CDATA[Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development.]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/p/12-best-budget-solo-date-ideas</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.givethemromance.com/p/12-best-budget-solo-date-ideas</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Krista]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 21 Mar 2024 12:15:01 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/171f729f-b59f-41ff-b813-3fb99a245ef0_1024x1024.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. But girl, you know I only include products I can vouch for! Now, enjoy today&#8217;s post featuring the 12 Best Budget Solo Date Ideas to Deepen Your Self-Love.</em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><div><hr></div><p>One critical component of self-love is being able to spend quality time with yourself. It&#8217;s something I&#8217;ve been a proponent of for a while. (I was even quoted <a href="https://www.sistersletter.com/me-time/17-simple-ways-to-celebrate-yourself">here</a>!) </p><p>Whether you are rolling solo or in a relationship, taking yourself on solo dates is an excellent way to love on you! While splurging on a fancy dinner or spending a fortune on new shoes might be fun and rewarding, treating yourself doesn&#8217;t have to be costly! Here are the 12 best budget solo date ideas for 2024.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif" width="250" height="250" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:480,&quot;width&quot;:480,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:250,&quot;bytes&quot;:1339218,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;best budget solo date ideas &quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="best budget solo date ideas " title="best budget solo date ideas " srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!LRXA!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F474edb28-c926-4fa1-bc66-488e2a7fc6dd_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><h4>Looking to stay in?&nbsp;</h4><p><strong>Have a cozy reading night.</strong> If you&#8217;re like me, you mostly read a few pages of your latest book before you crash for the night. Why not turn off Netflix and create a whole evening to read? Make some yummy hot cocoa, grab your favorite blanket, curl up on your couch, and put a dent in your book club book!&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Have a movie night.</strong> Not feeling bookish and prefer a movie instead? Pop some popcorn, turn the lights down low, and create movie theater vibes, right in your living room.&nbsp;Make it even more theater like with this <a href="https://amzn.to/4a2SV9b">adorable popcorn bowl</a>! <em>(paid link)</em></p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png" width="251" height="252.11308203991132" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:453,&quot;width&quot;:451,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:251,&quot;bytes&quot;:319183,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/i/142442519?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ZjjA!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e3d442c-e2b5-4b6d-ad4b-bb012cbd083a_451x453.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Make yourself a special dinner at home.</strong> No need to always go out for a great meal. If you enjoy cooking, why not create a solo date experience at home? Buy based on your budget. Even if you splurge on the steak, shrimp, or sea bass, it won&#8217;t set you back as much as it would at a restaurant. Grab the good bread. Liberally spread on the good butter. Pour a nice glass of wine. Totally luxuriate in the process! Make it complete by actually setting the table. Heck, even use the cloth napkins, like <a href="https://amzn.to/49GGd08">these</a>. <em>(paid link) </em>Take it up a notch and get dressed up - for you!&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Order a special dinner at home.</strong> Not feeling the labor of making your own meal? Order something special. Maybe select from a new place. Dress up - in your fancy pjs - and lean into that self-love.</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif" width="262" height="262" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/e174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:480,&quot;width&quot;:480,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:262,&quot;bytes&quot;:4608786,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;best budget solo date ideas &quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="best budget solo date ideas " title="best budget solo date ideas " srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!l_mj!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe174b55b-b148-44e4-a9e7-1c98b3e0b9d0_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Create a spa experience. </strong>Throw some bath bombs in the tub and take your time soaking the day away. Lather up with your favorite lotions and potions. Apply a face mask and let all the hydrating goodness soak in. Wrap up in a fluffy robe and <a href="https://amzn.to/49H95FN">fuzzy slippers</a> <em>(paid link)</em> and put your feet up.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Write yourself a love letter. </strong>Sit down with some pretty paper, light a candle, and write yourself a love letter. Celebrate all the amazing things that make you, you! Be your own hype woman! Pour into yourself as much as you pour into others. Save this gem for later when you need a boost of good energy and self-love!&nbsp;</p><div><hr></div><h4>Looking to go out?&nbsp;</h4><p><strong>Visit a bookstore.</strong> One of my favorite solo dates is wandering the aisles of a bookstore. I&#8217;m lucky to have so many near me, too. Since childhood, I&#8217;ve loved the scent of fresh paper that you only get in a bookstore. I could spend hours reading the blurbs and adding my faves to my Goodreads list. This is free, but you can also give yourself a small budget and purchase a new book for your TBR shelf!&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Make your own picnic.</strong> Pick up your favorite cheeses, meats, crackers, and fruits. (Pro-tip: choose seasonal fruit for the best deal!) Grab a blanket. Take yourself to a park or the beach and set up shop. Whether you are staring out at the ocean or looking up at the blue sky, enjoy your own company on this simple solo date. If you feel moved to do more than people watch, why not spend some time <a href="https://amzn.to/3Pg8eU9">journaling</a>?&nbsp;<em>(paid link)</em></p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png" width="222" height="322.056338028169" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:412,&quot;width&quot;:284,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:222,&quot;bytes&quot;:103288,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/i/142442519?img=https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png&quot;,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!BENZ!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7daec1b1-b19a-4fdf-9a42-04b9bee46872_284x412.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Take a hike.</strong> Nothing wrong with an active solo date to get the blood flowing and the heart pumping! Lace up your shoes and hit the trail. Maybe there will be a sweet reward of a stellar view! Hiking not your scene or no trails near you? Venture to a park or find another scenic area to get those steps in.&nbsp;</p><h4><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/5-minute-self-care-ideas-self-love">ALSO READ: 24 5-minute self-care ideas to boost self-love</a></h4><p><strong>Visit an art museum.</strong> I&#8217;ve been an art girlie since I was little so my heart is happy staring at sculptures and pondering paintings. In many cities, there are usually promotion days where you can even attend for free like <a href="https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/visit/first_saturdays">First Saturdays</a> at the Brooklyn museum and <a href="https://socalmuseums.org/annual-free-for-all-2024/">Museum Free-For-All day</a> in Los Angeles.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png" width="276" height="276" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/acd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1024,&quot;width&quot;:1024,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:276,&quot;bytes&quot;:1421049,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;best budget solo date ideas &quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="best budget solo date ideas " title="best budget solo date ideas " srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9N-U!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Facd0cd0e-81c3-433c-bd77-326f098d6e3f_1024x1024.png 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Have a pool day. </strong>Relax and rejuvenate by catching some rays. Why not try <a href="https://www.resortpass.com/">ResortPass</a> to make your solo date dreams come true? This amazing site that lets you purchase day passes to hotel pools in a host of cities. Take your book or magazine and post up poolside for the afternoon alone.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Take a drive. </strong>Some of my favorite solo dates have been behind the wheel of my car! Coffee, a playlist, and a full tank of gas can be the perfect way to spend the day solo. Belt out your favorite tunes, learn something new on a podcast, or simply sit with your thoughts as you cruise along. Add a little razzle dazzle with fun little stops on the way for lunch, ice cream, or another sweet treat!&nbsp;</p><p><em>Regardless of what you plan, this is your reminder to prioritize your self-care. Plan your solo dates. Sleep in. Take your PTO. You deserve it. And don&#8217;t forget to share with a friend who may also benefit from these tips!</em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/p/12-best-budget-solo-date-ideas?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Share&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/12-best-budget-solo-date-ideas?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share"><span>Share</span></a></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[24 5-minute self-care ideas to boost self-love]]></title><description><![CDATA[Did you hear? Self love is the best love. And it only takes 5 minutes a day to give yourself a little extra TLC.]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/p/5-minute-self-care-ideas-self-love</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.givethemromance.com/p/5-minute-self-care-ideas-self-love</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2024 15:35:25 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development. Enjoy today&#8217;s post, 24 5-minute Self-Care Ideas to Boost Self-Love.</em></p><p><em>Also, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. But girl, you know I only include products I can vouch for! </em></p><p><em>Don&#8217;t forget to subscribe to receive more content on all things love, dating, the single life, and our fictional romance stories. By subscribing, you&#8217;ll receive two romance short reads for free!</em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><p></p><div><hr></div><p></p><p>Did you hear? Self-love is the best love. And what better way to show yourself some TLC than with quick and easy 5-minute self-care practices?</p><p>Taking care of yourself can be a luxe and long-lasting experience. Who doesn&#8217;t want a day at the spa? Or better yet, a weekend. Realistically, we don&#8217;t always have the time. Life keeps life-ing and, some days kicks us in the ass a little harder than we&#8217;re prepared for. This is when you need to take care of yourself the most. This is when it is crucial to take whatever time you can to love up on yourself.&nbsp;</p><p>Whether you&#8217;re struggling at work, mending a broken heart, your kids are running you ragged, or just need a breather, these 5-minute self-care ideas are the perfect go-to to boost self-love.&nbsp;</p><h4>24 5-Minute Self-Care Ideas to Boost Self-Love</h4><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg" width="512" height="346.5" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:693,&quot;width&quot;:1024,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:512,&quot;bytes&quot;:300716,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Xo4O!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F57ae65d9-5ba4-4d86-a63f-5262f9a0cc00_1024x693.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Meditate</strong>. Meh! That was my first thought when folks told me to meditate when I was going through it. Who has time to sit down and be still? I got ish to do.</p><p>I&#8217;m sure you can relate. But take it from this energetic, slightly Type A, fast-paced New Yorker: meditation is the bomb dot com. You don&#8217;t have to sit still for an hour. You can take 5 minutes right before you wake up, breathe in and out, and remain in the present moment. Instead of grabbing your phone as soon as your eyes open, lay there and give yourself that time.&nbsp;</p><p>If you rather sleep in those extra 5 minutes (guilty!), take 5 minutes to meditate before bed. This is now part of my nightly routine.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Journal.</strong> <a href="https://amzn.to/4bGsOXz">Journaling for 5 minutes</a> (<em>paid link</em>) a day is an easy way to center yourself. Journal in the morning to set intentions for the day. Jot down your thoughts before bed. Or, if you&#8217;re like me, start a Google Doc to reflect on whatever comes up throughout the day. Just make sure to ground your journaling in gratitude and/or introspection. You want those 5 minutes to focus on your desires and what you are thankful for, not what you lack or hate about life.</p><p><strong>Affirm</strong>. Speaking of desires, affirming &#8220;I am&#8221; statements is a proven method to reprogram the subconscious mind. Our subconscious mind holds all of our beliefs about relationships, love, self-concept, money, people - <em>everything</em>. Our beliefs begin to form through our childhood experiences. Most of us hold limiting beliefs we aren&#8217;t even aware of. All of our deep-seated, subconscious beliefs then impact how we feel about ourselves, how we love ourselves, and, in turn, the decisions that we make and how we react in relationships.&nbsp;</p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><p>Affirming for 5 minutes a day will help break the old programming. Use this guide by yours truly to learn how to create your affirmations.</p><p><strong>Script. </strong>Scripting is a lot like journaling. The main difference is that you are taking 5 minutes to rewrite your desires. Rewrite your affirmations for 5 minutes a day before bed and feel yourself shift.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Song break.</strong> Pick a song that makes you feel like a Queen and dance like no one is watching. I always recommend Alien Superstar by Queen B herself.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Apply that lip. </strong>Pucker your lips and put on your favorite lipstick or gloss. When we believe we look good, we feel good.&nbsp;This l<a href="https://amzn.to/3uESEKN">ong-lasting vegan lipstick from NYX</a> (<em>paid link)</em> is my go-to when I want to look extra good. </p><h4><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/affirmations-level-up-as-a-woman">READ MORE: 60 Affirmations to Level Up as a Woman in the New Year</a></h4><p></p><p><strong>Accentuate your favorite feature.</strong> Another related 5-minute self care idea is to take 5 minutes a day to accentuate your favorite feature. My favorite feature is my eyes, which is why I always apply black under eyeliner to make &#8216;em pop.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Hug. </strong>Hugging is scientifically proven to boost serotonin levels. Whether it&#8217;s your kid, BFF, relative, or coworker, find someone to hug - with consent.&nbsp;You can also always hug yourself.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif" width="390" height="219.375" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:270,&quot;width&quot;:480,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:390,&quot;bytes&quot;:592487,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;5 minute self care ideas&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="5 minute self care ideas" title="5 minute self care ideas" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!nIpB!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f45ae37-0f9e-442b-9ebf-3f95e0495bdb_480x270.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Mirror work.</strong> Take one &#8220;I am&#8221; affirmation and recite it to yourself in front of the mirror for 5 minutes a day. Do this before bed as part of your nighttime routine. Especially if you have kids! When my son is tucked in bed, I do this type of mirror work to boost self-love.&nbsp;</p><p>Just note that you&#8217;ll probably feel all the feels, especially if you don&#8217;t believe what you are affirming about yourself. At first, you probably won&#8217;t believe it and either cry or feel a tightness in your chest. That means your subconscious mind is resisting this new, foreign belief system, which is why your body is emotionally reacting. Just know it&#8217;s normal.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Phone a friend.</strong> Remember calling folks? Yeah. It can still be a thing. Take 5 minutes to check in on a friend. And, yes, I realize this 5-minute self care idea can turn into a 20-minute phone call! That just means you had a lot of catching up to do!</p><p><strong>Take a walk</strong>. Going out in nature is a great way to decompress. And we all know that relaxing is one of the best ways to show ourselves some love! Take a walk for 5 minutes every day. Listen to the birds chirping. Take in some Vitamin D. If you&#8217;re a multitasker, listen to that favorite song while you walk. Just get out and move!&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Breathe. </strong>Doing breathwork is an easy way to release build-up stress. Take 5 minutes a day to breathe in and out. Turn off the TV. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb. Just breathe.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Laugh.</strong> Laughing is so good for the soul! Like hugging, it releases stress and boosts serotonin, which helps us feel so good. Take 5 minutes and go to your favorite, funniest TikToker and LOL.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif" width="412" height="314" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/c94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:314,&quot;width&quot;:412,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:10349535,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!_ssS!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc94a7938-e553-4d6d-abe6-0a3b84ed170d_412x314.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Massage. </strong>Yes, you can get a massage in 5 minutes from the comfort of your home! Grab <a href="https://amzn.to/3SKEFuZ">an at-home massager like this one</a> <em>(paid link</em>) and let it go to town! I use this one and it works wonders to loosen the tension in my shoulders.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Take a selfie.</strong> I love a selfie. Especially after putting on some lipstick and accentuating my eyes. Snap that pic (or a dozen) and appreciate your beauty.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Prepare your outfit the night before.</strong> When I look my best, I feel my best. That&#8217;s why I take time before bed to pick out my outfit for the next day. It saves me time in the hustle and bustle of the morning and it gives me some time to play dress up.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Put on your favorite perfume.</strong> I&#8217;ve been doing this lately and it makes me feel - and smell - amazing. This quick self-care practice is just another thing to do to treat yourself like the Queen that you are.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Screen break</strong>. Take 5 minutes off all electronics. No TV, Facebook, or Instagram. When you log back in give us a follow on the &#8216;Gram.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Sit.</strong> Just sit down, lady. Take 5 minutes to take care of you by doing nada.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Read. </strong>I love to read but tend to make excuses about not having time to do so. Welp, 5 minutes a day is all we need! Especially if it&#8217;s a quick romance read like <em><a href="https://amzn.to/3Ifyf1P">Candi</a> (paid link)</em>.</p><p><strong>Stretch</strong>. Stretching is one of the best ways to release tension. Extend your arms over your head, roll your shoulders and neck, or strike an easy yoga pose like Warrior I or Child Pose.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Watch a motivational video. </strong>YouTube has become my go-to platform to watch videos that pump me up. I enjoy mindset and manifestation videos by creator and mindset coach, Dylan James. Check out this video by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRnVGg2NAAA">Dylan</a> on accepting top-tier treatment.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Hydrate.</strong> Water keeps our bodies functioning optimally, so go fill up a glass and chug a little. Bored by plain water? Add a little lemon or mint.</p><p><strong>Engage in aromatherapy. </strong>Put a few<a href="https://amzn.to/49IKRKH"> drops of essential oils in your diffuser</a> (<em>paid link)</em> and breathe in what you need most. Lavender is great for relaxation while lemon is known for increasing happiness. Peppermint is said to increase alertness, while sandalwood helps with grounding.&nbsp;</p><p>I can share so many more 5-minute self-care ideas with you all, but this post has already probably taken you 5 minutes to read! Go ahead. Pick one. Show yourself some love today. Let me know in the comments which one you tried!</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to Stop Fearing the Unknown]]></title><description><![CDATA[Check yourself before you wreck yourself! Choose thoughts that align with your desires, not your fears.]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/p/how-to-stop-fearing-the-unknown</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.givethemromance.com/p/how-to-stop-fearing-the-unknown</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 01 Feb 2024 13:15:34 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development. Enjoy today&#8217;s post, How to Stop Fearing the Unknown. </em></p><p><em>Don&#8217;t forget to subscribe to receive more content on all things love, dating, the single life, and our fictional romance stories. By subscribing, you&#8217;ll receive two romance short reads for free! Also, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. But girl, you know I only include products I can vouch for!</em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><div><hr></div><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg" width="524" height="349.4532967032967" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/f10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:971,&quot;width&quot;:1456,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:524,&quot;bytes&quot;:3104272,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;how to stop fearing the unknown&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="how to stop fearing the unknown" title="how to stop fearing the unknown" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DHec!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff10b90e0-82d3-47df-90fe-7ec950f1c089_6430x4287.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>I used to have a fear of the unknown. Because of this fear, I had an internal dialogue that ran through my mind on a loop, much like a Hot 97 mixtape. (Straight from the boombox tape recorder, yo.) I talked myself into applying for and accepting jobs that I didn&#8217;t want because the little voice inside my head convinced me that I had no other choice. I ignored red flags and relationship dealbreakers because I was afraid of being single. I did it over and over again, replaying these limiting thoughts on a loop. And, since &#8220;I got no patience, and I hate waiting,&#8221; (thanks Jay-Z) I &#8220;put the needle on the record&#8221; (circa: M/A/R/R/S) to speed up my desired outcome.&nbsp;</p><p>If you&#8217;re tracking with me and this is resonating, keep reading to learn how to stop fearing the unknown.</p><p><strong>First, you need to check yourself before you wreck yourself.</strong></p><p>Admit that you&#8217;re afraid of what&#8217;s to come and that you feel uncertain about the future. Honesty is the best policy here. Once you become self-aware you are much more conscious of your thoughts. You can decide to stop thinking negatively and choose thoughts that align with your desires.&nbsp;</p><div><hr></div><h2>Treat Yourself this Valentine&#8217;s Day! </h2><p>Shirtless men? Steamy romance? Oh my! </p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif" width="310" height="310" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:432,&quot;width&quot;:432,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:310,&quot;bytes&quot;:4858289,&quot;alt&quot;:null,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-hSn!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd11a2f3c-760b-4cc9-8db9-18df4dfcf593_432x432.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>Check out these <a href="https://books.bookfunnel.com/febsteamylove/ux249ls1nn">spicy romance shorts</a> from a variety of authors. It will make your Valentine&#8217;s Day extra special! </p><div><hr></div><p>Here&#8217;s a checklist to identify if you&#8217;re moving through life with a fear of the unknown:</p><ul><li><p>You&#8217;re obsessed with figuring out what will happen next.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>You calculate your every move and decision, sometimes even mapping out the next steps on a poster board.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>You brainstorm various scenarios to calculate your next move.</p></li><li><p>You rehearse conversations in your mind and constantly go over the various outcomes.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>You're obsessed with watching tarot readings. You watch tarot and astrology channels often to learn what will happen next or what to prepare for due to planetary shifts.</p></li><li><p>You seek answers from the Bible, flipping and stopping at pages to get a sign.</p></li><li><p>You constantly watch preachings hoping God speaks to you and tells you what to do.</p></li><li><p>You try to control outcomes by pushing people for answers and pushing people to act.</p></li></ul><p>If this resonates, you&#8217;re in danger, girl! It&#8217;s time to evolve from a fear-based thinking and into intuitive decision-making.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>How to Stop Fearing the Unknown&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Don&#8217;t allow your fears to become your reality</strong>. Challenge them instead! Ask yourself, <em>is this really a fear or am I just triggered?</em> Another great question, especially if you are afraid to take risks due to the unknown is, &#8220;What&#8217;s the worst that can happen?&#8221; If that outcome scares you, find ways to regulate your emotional response with <a href="https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.emotional-freedom-technique-eft.acl9225">EFT tapping</a> and breathwork.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Take it one day at a time!</strong> Instead of shaking your fear off like a Taylor Swift song, take baby steps. Pinpoint your fears day by day and conquer them one by one. You don&#8217;t have to be perfect! Unlearning a fear-based mindset is a marathon, not a race.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Journal</strong>. It&#8217;s a simple practice but writing down your thoughts on why you fear the unknown will help you uncover core issues. The <em><a href="https://amzn.to/3O6tXx6">Magic of Mindset</a></em><a href="https://amzn.to/3O6tXx6"> journal</a> (paid link) is super helpful as it guides you to get unstuck to shift your mindset. You can also check out<em> <a href="https://amzn.to/426cBGL">Claim It Queen: A 22-Day Self Love and Self Confidence Journal</a></em> (paid link), by yours truly!&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg" width="398" height="515.2678571428571" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/e7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:1885,&quot;width&quot;:1456,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:398,&quot;bytes&quot;:136505,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;self love self confidence journal with prompts&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="self love self confidence journal with prompts" title="self love self confidence journal with prompts" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!RJvM!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe7a0336e-c098-467b-a6fb-a2f96cc98339_1545x2000.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Affirm away the fear.</strong> Manifestation and the law of assumption teaches that we can create our dream life with our thoughts - and I believe that is true! The more you feed into your fearful, lack-based thoughts the more you focus on what you are afraid of and what you lack. Instead, affirm your fear away.&nbsp;</p><p>Some examples of affirmations you can use are:&nbsp; &#8220;I am not afraid of anything,&#8221; &#8220;I am safe,&#8221; and &#8220;My future is secure.&#8221;&nbsp;</p><h3><strong><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/affirmations-level-up-as-a-woman">ALSO READ:&nbsp; 60 Affirmations to Level Up This Year</a></strong></h3><p><strong><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/affirmations-level-up-as-a-woman">Choose whatever affirmation</a></strong> feels right to you and repeat it daily on a loop in your mind. Eventually, your subconscious mind will become reprogrammed with your new, positive thoughts and you will feel less and less afraid. In fact, you&#8217;ll feel fearless, safe, and secure.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Pull an Oracle card. </strong>Oracle cards won&#8217;t predict what will happen next so they are a lot less addictive than tarot readings. They are a great tool to use to connect with your intuition and tap into your subconscious. I recommend the <a href="https://amzn.to/48FuzC8">Moonology Oracle cards</a> (paid link) and <a href="https://amzn.to/3U6zoA1">The Spirit Animal Oracle</a> (paid link) cards.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Speak to God.</strong> It may seem like an oxymoron to suggest Oracle cards and prayer, but I believe you can do both. As I said previously, Oracle cards are a tool to tap into your intuition when you feel blocked. Speaking to God is another vehicle.&nbsp;</p><p>In the past, I struggled with believing you can use both strategies, mostly because Western Christianity teaches that divination tools are a sin. However, as a Latina of African and indigenous descent, I can&#8217;t help but wonder what my beliefs would be today if my ancestors weren&#8217;t colonized. With colonization came forced Christianity. So, as much as I believe in God (a higher power), I also believe there are other ways to heal and worship. Luckily, times are changing and there are some pastors, like <a href="https://www.unfitchristian.com/">D. Danyelle Thomas</a>, who challenge outdated and complex religious ideologies.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Seek support. </strong>You can go to a therapist and/or speak to a friend to ease your fears. Remember that you do not have to do this alone.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif" width="480" height="480" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:480,&quot;width&quot;:480,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:9279844,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot; how to stop fearing the unknown &quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt=" how to stop fearing the unknown " title=" how to stop fearing the unknown " srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!u_65!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_lossy/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fa0e6efed-71ac-4f08-981e-bcfb98f26ccc_480x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p><strong>Read great books.</strong> <em><a href="https://amzn.to/47I4MYW">My Friend Fear</a></em> (paid link) is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it&#8217;s also an excellent source to help you move past the fear of the unknown. The book holds a mix of personal reflections and asks readers insightful questions to reflect on fear.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>As for me, I now know how to remain in the present moment. I make decisions that align with my authentic self and my desires. I am in a great place emotionally and mentally thanks to learning about the law of assumption and journaling. That&#8217;s the last tip I&#8217;ll throw at you: find a hobby or passion that keeps you in the now. Pour your energy into it and watch your life transform. Trust me when I say (and Sheryl Crow sings) that &#8220;a change will do you good.&#8221;&nbsp;</p><div><hr></div><h2>Buy Our Books</h2><p><em>Like romance? We got you! From spicy to sweet to naughty, there is something for everyone.</em></p><p><em>Candi</em> is a spicy and comical romance novelette featuring Dominican characters and a messy love triangle. You&#8217;ll laugh, ooh and ah, and wonder: can Candi get any messier? Read to find out.</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3T6skDh">Paperback</a> | <a href="https://amzn.to/3MQEn3t">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><div><hr></div><p><em>Brandy </em>is a fun and flirty short summer romance. You&#8217;ll root for Brandy as she navigates the ramifications of catching real feelings for her fake boo. Will she go from breaking down to breaking through? Read and see!</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3MQuyCO">Paperback </a>| <a href="https://amzn.to/46i9J9X">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><div><hr></div><p><em>Danielle</em> is a sweet, yet saucy romance novelette. Follow Danielle as she figures out life after cutting off her FWB. Will she find love in an unexpected place? Read to find out.</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3R4lRqU">Paperback </a>| <a href="https://amzn.to/47F5OoL">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><div><hr></div><p><em>Gabby</em> is steamy summer read that has you feeling all the feels by fall. Will a surprise second chance at romance lead to lasting love at 40? Grab your copy to see what happens!</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3TyhTsg">Paperback </a>| <a href="https://amzn.to/48qyUZt">Kindle</a></strong></em></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[60 Affirmations to Level Up as a Woman in the New Year]]></title><description><![CDATA[Affirmations are scientifically proven to reprogram the mind.  These 60 affirmations will help you level up as a woman in this new year.]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/p/affirmations-level-up-as-a-woman</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.givethemromance.com/p/affirmations-level-up-as-a-woman</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Sujeiry]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jan 2024 13:15:23 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2d02558c-31c5-4af7-8162-0671273b64ee_620x380.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development. Enjoy today&#8217;s post, 60 Affirmations to Level Up as a Woman This New Year. </em></p><p><em>Also, don&#8217;t forget to subscribe to receive more content on all things love, dating, the single life, and our fictional romance stories. By subscribing, you&#8217;ll receive two romance short reads for free! </em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><div><hr></div><p>What if I told you that you don&#8217;t need a college degree or decades of experience to grow your net worth as a woman? That you can level up as a woman with affirmations?</p><p>I know it&#8217;s hard to believe. You must be asking: is it that easy to be abundant, financially free, and kill it professionally despite my circumstances? Yes, it is if you believe it is! Because leveling up as a woman boils down to mindset.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg" width="620" height="380" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/ca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:380,&quot;width&quot;:620,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:169878,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;affirmations to level up as a woman&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:false,&quot;topImage&quot;:true,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="affirmations to level up as a woman" title="affirmations to level up as a woman" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!uPx2!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fca515b3c-0b94-41d3-884e-578144a50676_620x380.jpeg 1456w" sizes="100vw" fetchpriority="high"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><p></p><p>To get the right mindset to live your wildest dreams professionally and financially, you need affirmations to help you level up as a woman. And I&#8217;m here to share some with you!</p><p>But first, let&#8217;s talk about why affirmations actually work in this way.&nbsp;</p><h2>Why Affirmations Help You Level Up as a Woman</h2><p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4814782/">Affirmations are scientifically proven</a> to zap the part of your brain that provides rewards. If you repeat your affirmations enough, you will create a new neuropathway that will show proof of that affirmation in your 3D world. In other words, the more you recite your affirmations, whether aloud or in your head, the more your perception will change on the subject at hand. When that perception changes, your physical reality begins to conform. You will see evidence that, yes, you actually do have what you want and, if reciting self-concept affirmations, you are who you say that you are.&nbsp;</p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><p>For example, if you repeatedly claim, &#8220;I am so lucky!&#8221; you will eventually have experiences that show you that you are lucky. Maybe you win at a scratch-off or find money on the floor. Or you get the only available parking spot on a busy NYC street. An opportunity you were not expecting might just land on your lap! All evidence that, yes, you are so lucky!</p><h4><a href="https://www.givethemromance.com/p/end-of-year-reflection-for-women">ALSO READ: An End of Year Reflection for Women</a></h4><p>On the contrary, if you repeatedly state, &#8220;I am so unlucky,&#8221; or a variation of that like, &#8220;Nothing ever works out for me,&#8221; guess what experiences you then create in your reality? Unlucky ones. A bill might come earlier than expected and might be larger than expected. You miss your exit and are late for a job interview. You talk yourself out of amazing opportunities all the time, or you might not even see them.&nbsp;</p><p>The only difference between these two scenarios is what and who you claim to be: lucky or unlucky. So, if you wish to level up as a woman, you must affirm favorable thoughts.</p><h2>60 Affirmations to Level Up as a Woman in the New Year</h2><p>Now that you know the why, here are 60 affirmations to level up as a woman professionally and financially. They are short and sweet, so you can repeat them easily and as much as possible!&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Money</strong></em></p><ol><li><p>I am rich/I am rich as fuck.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I have a vault of money.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I am abundant.</p></li><li><p>I am wealthy.</p></li><li><p>Money comes so easily to me.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I make X dollars a day/month/year.</p></li><li><p>Why is it so easy to make money?</p></li><li><p>Money does grow on trees.</p></li><li><p>I make money every day.</p></li><li><p>Money just lands on my lap.</p></li><li><p>I always have money.</p></li><li><p>I never have to worry about money. </p><p></p></li></ol><p><em><strong>Self Concept</strong></em></p><ol><li><p>I am successful.</p></li><li><p>I never have to work hard for what I have.</p></li><li><p>Everything always comes easily to me.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I am so lucky.</p></li><li><p>Everything always goes my way.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I have everything I want right now.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>Everything always works out for me.</p></li><li><p>Everything in my life is perfect/my life is perfect.</p></li><li><p>My life is so easy.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I want it, I got it.</p></li><li><p>I already have it all.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I get what I want instantly.</p></li><li><p>I am a master manifestor.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I am a powerful creator.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>Why do I always get what I want?</p></li><li><p>I am living my dream life.</p></li><li><p>I am perfect.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I am always spoiled.</p></li><li><p>Why does everything always work out for me?</p></li><li><p>I am always chosen.&nbsp;</p></li></ol><p></p><p><em><strong>For Entrepreneurs</strong></em></p><ol><li><p>My business is booming.</p></li><li><p>Everything I touch turns to gold.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I always have clients.</p></li><li><p>My clients love me.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I get so many referrals.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I am a successful business owner.</p></li><li><p>I am so happy in my business.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>Why is my business so successful?</p></li><li><p>I am a successful entrepreneur.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I am a rich and famous entrepreneur.&nbsp;</p></li></ol><p></p><p><em><strong>For Creatives</strong></em></p><ol><li><p>All my content goes viral.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>Everyone loves watching me.</p></li><li><p>My Instagram grows every day.</p></li><li><p>I have so many subscribers/followers!</p></li><li><p>Why am I so famous?</p></li><li><p>I am so popular online.</p></li><li><p>I am a best-selling author.</p></li><li><p>I am a rich and famous content creator/vlogger/influencer.</p></li><li><p>All my blogs are on Google&#8217;s first page.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I make so much money being me.</p></li><li><p>I am as famous/successful as (enter celebrity name).&nbsp;</p><p></p></li></ol><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><p><em><strong>To Find a Job</strong></em></p><ol><li><p>I got the job!&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>I always get the job I want.</p></li><li><p>I have so many job opportunities.</p></li><li><p>I am a great interviewer.</p></li><li><p>Everyone wants to hire me.</p></li><li><p>I am so happy at my new job/I have the best job.</p></li><li><p>I can have whatever job I want.&nbsp;</p><p></p></li></ol><h2>How to Use These Affirmations to Level Up as a Woman</h2><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif" width="480" height="269" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/b7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:269,&quot;width&quot;:480,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:1578064,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;affirmations to level up as a woman&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="affirmations to level up as a woman" title="affirmations to level up as a woman" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!s9O0!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb7c582c4-7610-47d3-8048-fe4fb1d29f81_480x269.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><ul><li><p><strong>Choose an affirmation that resonates.</strong> It should feel good, natural to you even. Also, make sure that you switch it up and personalize the affirmation if you don&#8217;t use that word, per say. Be you when affirming!&nbsp;</p></li><li><p><strong>Repeat your affirmations consistently.</strong> And I mean as much as possible! Remember: the more you repeat it, the more your mind will believe it. And then it will show up just like that!&nbsp;</p></li><li><p><strong>Set a routine. </strong>I say my affirmations as soon as I wake up. I take each one and say it in my head or aloud, depending on who is around, for 10 min each. Do so when you&#8217;re showering, making breakfast, driving to work, or school drop. Just embed it into your morning routine. Do the same for mid-day and nighttime.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p><strong>Affirm all the time</strong> <strong>if you want to start believing what you&#8217;re repeating.</strong> If you want to go extra hard, affirm throughout the day while driving, going on a walk, working out, cooking dinner, doing laundry, etc. If you can&#8217;t, that&#8217;s ok. Just keep your wandering negative thoughts in check as much as possible.  </p></li><li><p><strong>Relax!</strong> Don&#8217;t panic if you do not see anything changing in your physical reality immediately. Also, please do not claim that this is not working. You have to have faith and try to remain in the mindset of the woman who has leveled up.&nbsp;</p></li><li><p><strong>Try not to complain.</strong> If things seem dire, try to keep your thoughts aligned with your desire to level up as a woman. Do not give in to bitching and moaning about money, your boss, your relationship, your low social media numbers, your lack of YouTube subscribers, etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></li><li><p><strong>Remember that you are not a robot.</strong> Yes, you can have a moment of, UGH! But do not stay there. Feel it. Hit a pillow if you have to.&nbsp;Scream or cry. Move past it somehow without calling a friend and complaining for hours. Just let it pass because it will. Feelings are fleeting. And then get back to your affirmations!</p></li></ul><p>You have 60 affirmations to choose from. No excuses, loves. Get to it! And let me know in comments what affirmation you&#8217;re focusing on this new year. </p><p></p><div><hr></div><h2>Buy Our Books</h2><p><em>Like romance? We got you! From spicy to sweet to naughty, there is something for everyone.</em></p><p><em>Candi</em> is a spicy and comical romance novelette featuring Dominican characters and a messy love triangle. You&#8217;ll laugh, ooh and ah, and wonder: can Candi get any messier? Read to find out.</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3T6skDh">Paperback</a> | <a href="https://amzn.to/3MQEn3t">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><div><hr></div><p><em>Brandy </em>is a fun and flirty short summer romance. You&#8217;ll root for Brandy as she navigates the ramifications of catching real feelings for her fake boo. Will she go from breaking down to breaking through? Read and see!</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3MQuyCO">Paperback </a>| <a href="https://amzn.to/46i9J9X">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><div><hr></div><p><em>Danielle</em> is a sweet, yet saucy romance novelette. Follow Danielle as she figures out life after cutting off her FWB. Will she find love in an unexpected place? Read to find out.</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3R4lRqU">Paperback </a>| <a href="https://amzn.to/47F5OoL">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><div><hr></div><p><em>Gabby</em> is steamy summer read that has you feeling all the feels by fall. Will a surprise second chance at romance lead to lasting love at 40? Grab your copy to see what happens!</p><p><em><strong>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/3TyhTsg">Paperback </a>| <a href="https://amzn.to/48qyUZt">Kindle</a></strong></em></p><p></p><p><em>This post was originally published on <a href="https://yourselfloveadvocate.com/affirmations-level-up-as-a-woman/">Your Self Love Advocate.</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[An End of Year Reflection for Women]]></title><description><![CDATA[Even though every year is not all sunshine, we still have rainbows]]></description><link>https://www.givethemromance.com/p/end-of-year-reflection-for-women</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.givethemromance.com/p/end-of-year-reflection-for-women</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Krista]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 28 Dec 2023 13:15:53 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/131967d7-da26-4602-a0cb-39506df57f80_3788x3199.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Welcome to #MoodMindset, where we share mindset and manifesting tips, plus, reflections on self-love and personal development. Enjoy today&#8217;s post, An End of Year Reflection for Women.</em></p><p><em>Also, don&#8217;t forget to subscribe to receive more content on all things love, dating, the single life, and our fictional romance stories. By subscribing, you&#8217;ll receive two romance short reads for free! </em></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe now&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.givethemromance.com/subscribe?"><span>Subscribe now</span></a></p><div><hr></div><p>One of the greatest ways you can show yourself love is by offering yourself compassion as you reflect on your year. Especially when it&#8217;s been a tough one. Here&#8217;s an end of year reflection for women, especially if your year hasn&#8217;t gone the way you thought it would.</p><h2>An End of Year Reflection for Women</h2><p>Who you are now, or where you are now, is not who you imagined or where you imagined you&#8217;d be when the clock struck midnight on January 1st. Your best laid plans and goals and aspirations went all the way awry.&nbsp;</p><p>Maybe you&#8217;re wondering, how?</p><p>Maybe you&#8217;re wondering, why?</p><p>But maybe it&#8217;s not about figuring out how or why what you thought would be isn&#8217;t. Maybe the lesson is in appreciating what was and accepting what is.&nbsp;</p><p>Maybe amidst the sorrow there was still joy.</p><p>Maybe amidst the hurt there was still love.&nbsp;</p><p>Maybe amidst the loneliness there was still connection.&nbsp;</p><p>Maybe amidst the struggle there was still purpose.&nbsp;</p><p>Maybe those contradictions can coexist.&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Both things can be true at the same time.</strong></em> </p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_1272,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw"><img src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif" width="320" height="568.8888888888889" data-attrs="{&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/f3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif&quot;,&quot;srcNoWatermark&quot;:null,&quot;fullscreen&quot;:null,&quot;imageSize&quot;:null,&quot;height&quot;:480,&quot;width&quot;:270,&quot;resizeWidth&quot;:null,&quot;bytes&quot;:1148157,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;end of year reflection for women&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:null,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/gif&quot;,&quot;href&quot;:null,&quot;belowTheFold&quot;:true,&quot;topImage&quot;:false,&quot;internalRedirect&quot;:null,&quot;isProcessing&quot;:false,&quot;align&quot;:null,&quot;offset&quot;:false}" class="sizing-normal" alt="end of year reflection for women" title="end of year reflection for women" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!3Pcj!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3ac9619-126a-4616-a17c-60eb3267303f_270x480.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><div><hr></div><h2>Revisit and reflect </h2><p>Try using your calendar to go back in time, month by month, to find the moments, events, and time where you felt loved, cared for, seen or supported by your community. Consider both large and small moments. Maybe you made a new friend or went on a fun adventure. Or maybe it was a moving moment in a yoga class or a sincere hug from a friend. Think expansively.&nbsp;</p><div><hr></div><h2>Every day is an opportunity</h2><p>There are more days and weeks and months to fill with more joy, love, connection and purpose. It may look differently than you thought or planned, and it can still be healing and nourishing and fulfilling and fruitful.&nbsp;</p><p>In this year, one chapter may have closed, but that doesn&#8217;t mean it&#8217;s the end of your story.&nbsp;</p><p>You may have to go back to the beginning of your story to remember who you are, but the good news is, that&#8217;s not where you&#8217;re starting. And when the time comes, let yourself turn the page and write a new chapter.&nbsp;</p><div class="captioned-image-container"><figure><a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" target="_blank" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!m_TJ!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F378ddc06-348d-4aec-ba7d-09b8913293a0_480x270.gif" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM"><div class="image2-inset"><picture><source type="image/webp" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!m_TJ!,w_424,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F378ddc06-348d-4aec-ba7d-09b8913293a0_480x270.gif 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!m_TJ!,w_848,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F378ddc06-348d-4aec-ba7d-09b8913293a0_480x270.gif 848w, 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https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!m_TJ!,w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F378ddc06-348d-4aec-ba7d-09b8913293a0_480x270.gif 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!m_TJ!,w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F378ddc06-348d-4aec-ba7d-09b8913293a0_480x270.gif 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!m_TJ!,w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F378ddc06-348d-4aec-ba7d-09b8913293a0_480x270.gif 1456w" sizes="100vw" loading="lazy"></picture><div class="image-link-expand"><div class="pencraft pc-display-flex pc-gap-8 pc-reset"><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container restack-image"><svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" stroke-width="1.5" stroke="var(--color-fg-primary)" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g><title></title><path d="M2.53001 7.81595C3.49179 4.73911 6.43281 2.5 9.91173 2.5C13.1684 2.5 15.9537 4.46214 17.0852 7.23684L17.6179 8.67647M17.6179 8.67647L18.5002 4.26471M17.6179 8.67647L13.6473 6.91176M17.4995 12.1841C16.5378 15.2609 13.5967 17.5 10.1178 17.5C6.86118 17.5 4.07589 15.5379 2.94432 12.7632L2.41165 11.3235M2.41165 11.3235L1.5293 15.7353M2.41165 11.3235L6.38224 13.0882"></path></g></svg></button><button tabindex="0" type="button" class="pencraft pc-reset pencraft icon-container view-image"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="lucide lucide-maximize2 lucide-maximize-2"><polyline points="15 3 21 3 21 9"></polyline><polyline points="9 21 3 21 3 15"></polyline><line x1="21" x2="14" y1="3" y2="10"></line><line x1="3" x2="10" y1="21" y2="14"></line></svg></button></div></div></div></a></figure></div><div><hr></div><h2>Reflect and renew</h2><p>Like sentences turn into paragraphs and chapters into books, our lives take shape when small, every day moments accumulate into weeks and months and seasons and years. </p><p><strong>You don&#8217;t have to plan out your entire next year in this moment. </strong>Are there a couple of things you can plan in the next few weeks that will be healing and nourishing? Perhaps it&#8217;s as small as adding a few minutes of meditation to your day or planning a menu for a special meal. Document a few and put them on the calendar, if you can. </p><p><strong>How will you plan to reflect on this year and plan for the next? Share your ideas in the comments below.</strong></p><div><hr></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>