Making Your Move Feel Less Stressful...

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Moving is an immensely exciting time in your life, but it can also be filled with stress. Thankfully, it is possible to make the process less stressful by following a very simple strategy.

Small steps can make a huge difference to the long-term situation. Here are six of the best that can lead you to a better move.

Get The Best Prices

First and foremost, getting the best financial outcome will put you in a far better place mentally. Therefore, knowing how to negotiate a cheaper property purchase should be the first item on your checklist. It could save you thousands of dollars, thus making the whole process easier.

If you are also selling a property during this time, be sure to stage it well. When you get the best financial outcome from both transactions, the situation will look far brighter.

Know The Legal Factors

One of the first things you should know when making a move is that property purchase prices are only one aspect of the total cost. You can reduce admin tasks with items like templates for property deeds. However, you also need to know the other costs involved. 

Property taxes can cost you thousands. If you ignore this, as well as the costs of logistically moving, stress levels will inevitably soar.

Call Professional Movers

Speaking of the logistical aspects, hiring a moving company is highly advised. They have the vehicles and tools to ensure that your items reach the intended destination in perfect condition. It is the only way to ensure all items are protected with a practical door-to-door service.

Aside from avoiding the stress of broken items, it leaves you free to focus on collecting your keys. This is another simple step that makes the move less stressful.

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Get insured

This is an expensive and hectic time in your life. The last thing you need is to face further problems due to a lack of financial protection. Insurance should cover your home, health, life, and earnings. Otherwise, the risk of encountering problems will circle overhead.

In an ideal world, you’ll never need to make a claim. If you do, though, the right protection plan will save you from a potential nightmare. 

Research The Area

Moving home isn’t just about buying a new property. You also buy into a new way of life. Therefore, it’s equally important to research the neighborhood. Travel routes, amenities, and schooling opportunities should all be included in your research. 

A sense of familiarity makes the whole process less stressful. Organizing a day out to a local attraction and joining local social media groups may also help.

Be Ready For Day One

Hiring professional movers gets you into the property well, but you need to know that the first night will be enjoyable too. If you have children, having your WiFi connection sorted and home entertainment devices to hand. This will prevent a lot of potential boredom.

It allows you to get on with unboxing. When coupled with a nice meal, your life in the new property will be off to the perfect possible start.

*This is a collaborative post thanks for reading

Finding Peace When You Lose a Loved One...

 Losing a loved one is hard at any stage, whether it’s your first death that you’re experiencing or it’s a family member or friend that was lost unexpectedly and suddenly.

No death is easy to navigate, here are a few things to do to navigate through the loss when it happens.

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Allow yourself to grieve and don’t rush the process.

It’s important that you’re taking the time to grieve, especially when it comes to losing someone that was close to you. Whether they died suddenly, or it was a slower transition to death, the pain remains just as strong, which is why it’s important to take the time to grieve.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to grieving and everyone manages it in their own way. Ultimately though, grief takes a lot of time to process and sometimes never gets any easier. Allowing yourself to grieve though is imperative.

Seek support from loved ones.

When you’re ready to, it’s important to surround yourself with people where you can. Those who may know what you’re going through, whether that’s because they know the person you’ve lost or simply have experience with death.

Seeking support from loved ones can certainly help with managing your grief and allowing yourself the time you need to process it further.

Get plans together for funeral arrangements.

Funeral arrangements are something you’ll want to start planning sooner rather than later.

Making use of www.familyfuneralservices.com.au is a helpful way of managing the process and allowing professionals to help you with all of the necessary proceedings required.

Prioritize your self-care.

While grieving, it is important to look after yourself where you can. This can be hard, especially when in the midst of all the grief. However, if you’re giving yourself some time to pamper yourself or do something for you, you can start to feel a bit more like yourself amongst the grief that you’re feeling.

Find ways to celebrate them going forward.

I lost my dear angel mom several years ago. I am eternally thankful for the love and support I continue to receive. I find ways to celebrate and honor her often and it really helps me a lot!

Losing a loved one is never easy, but hopefully these tips help you find peace.

*This is a collaborative post thanks for reading

I use insoles for flat feet...

 

My flat feet need lots of pampering. A perfect way to start out the new year is looking for good insoles that will help! 

I travel often and I use insoles for flat feet to help keep my feet happy with all of the walking I do. 

Having flat feet often causes overpronation, where the feet and ankles roll inward, placing pressure on the bigger toes and inside of the foot. Insoles for flat feet are clinically proven to relieve and prevent pain.

I think the best insoles for flat feet include cushioning for enhanced comfort from heel to toe. Another thing I look for is good arch support.

The idea of amazing insoles in my shoes really makes a huge difference. I like ones that have an odor control top fabric that helps reduce heat, friction, and perspiration.

Making my feet happy is one of the important things I do that helps me to stay calm. :) 

I have so many different shoes and these are going to be perfect to help with pain relief and prevention.

When we are doing outdoor activities insoles for flat feet are a must! I look for insoles that are antibacterial, breathable, lightweight and colorful. 

Keeping my family healthy is so important and with spending hours on our feet, good insoles really help.

Another thing I look for is to make sure they have premium support and that they are firm but flexible.

Finding the right insoles can be challenging, but after doing some research you can pick the right type of orthotic insoles for your needs. 

When I am looking for insoles for flat feet, I order some for my hubby and dad also. Good insoles will make the perfect gifts to give your loved ones! 

*This blog post is in collaboration with Responsival!

The Ultimate Financial Checklist for the Holidays...

 Save, Spend, and Celebrate:

From budgeting and gift lists to meal planning and travel tips, here’s how to keep your finances in check during the busiest season of the year.

 

The holidays are coming up fast, and while this season is full of joy, family time, and festive fun, it can also come with a bit of stress—especially when it comes to money. That’s why I’ve put together this detailed financial checklist to help you stay on track, enjoy the holidays, and start the new year without a budget hangover.

Let’s dive in!

Set a Holiday Budget

 

The key to a financially stress-free holiday is having a clear budget in place before you start spending. Start by reviewing your overall finances to determine how much you can comfortably allocate to holiday expenses without dipping into savings or going into debt. Your holiday budget should include:

• Gifts: Factor in everyone from close family to teachers and friends.

• Holiday meals and entertaining: Don’t forget about ingredients and extras like table settings.

• Travel: If you’re visiting family or taking a vacation, include transportation, lodging, and meals.

• Decorations: Plan for a few new ornaments or lights but aim to reuse most of what you already have.

• Unexpected costs: There’s always something that sneaks up—an extra gift, last-minute plans, or event tickets.

Set up a separate bank account for holiday spending. Deposit your budgeted amount in there so it’s easy to track how much you’ve spent and how much you have left.

Prioritize Your Gifting List

 

It’s tempting to want to buy for everyone, but that’s not always realistic, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Start by listing everyone you typically buy for, then break the list into two groups:

• Must-buy-for: Immediate family, close friends, and teachers fall into this group. These are people you won’t want to skip on gifting.

• Nice-to-buy-for: Extended family, neighbors, and co-workers may fall into this category. Consider DIY gifts, such as homemade treats or personalized crafts, to keep costs low but thoughtful.

Be honest with yourself about what you can afford. It’s better to give small, meaningful gifts that fit within your budget than to overspend and regret it later. If cutting back is tough, talk with family and friends about setting gift limits or doing a Secret Santa exchange, where each person only buys for one other person.

Plan Your Meals & Groceries Early

 

Holiday meals are often a highlight of the season, but they can also be expensive—especially if you’re hosting. Take time to plan your holiday menus now, whether it’s a big family dinner, holiday brunch, or an intimate gathering with friends. Once you know what meals you’ll be preparing, you can start shopping for the essentials.

• Buy non-perishables early: Things like canned goods, baking supplies, and frozen items can be purchased ahead of time to avoid the last-minute rush.

• Look for sales: Many stores run sales leading up to the holidays, so keep an eye out for discounts on ingredients like butter, meats, and other essentials.

• Split the cost: Don’t hesitate to ask guests to bring a dish or dessert. Potlucks not only lighten the financial load but also make the event more fun by incorporating everyone’s favorite recipes.

Use Last Year’s Decor Before Buying New

 

Holiday decorations can really add up, especially if you’re tempted to refresh your décor each year. Before buying anything new, take inventory of what you already own. A little creativity can go a long way in making old decorations feel new.

• Repurpose what you have: Use last year’s ornaments in new ways—fill clear vases with ornaments or turn old ribbons into garlands.

• DIY it: Get crafty with the kids and make new decorations from inexpensive items. Pinecones, branches, and recycled materials can all be transformed with a little holiday magic.

• Only buy what you need: If you do want to purchase something new, stick to a few key items. Focus on pieces that will last and that you’ll enjoy for years to come, like a high-quality wreath or timeless ornaments.

Take Advantage of Sales & Cashback Offers

 

The holiday shopping season is full of opportunities to save—if you plan ahead! Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other seasonal sales are the perfect time to buy gifts and even stock up on essentials like holiday decorations and groceries.

• Sign up for store emails: You’ll often receive exclusive coupons and discounts.

• Use cashback apps: Programs like Rakuten or browser extensions like Honey can give you a percentage back on your purchases, or help you automatically apply coupons at checkout.

• Price compare: Use tools like Google Shopping or PriceGrabber to compare prices across multiple retailers and ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Check Credit Card Rewards

 

If you’ve been building up credit card points, miles, or cashback rewards throughout the year, now is the perfect time to use them. Whether you redeem points for travel, gift cards, or even cash back to use toward gifts, this can be a huge help in easing holiday expenses.

• Look for gift card deals: Some credit card companies offer better redemption rates for gift cards during the holidays, giving you more bang for your buck.

• Use points for travel: If you’re flying or driving long distances, check your card’s rewards program to see if you can cover travel expenses with points or miles.

• Cashback bonuses: If your card offers cashback, consider redeeming it to help cover part of your holiday budget.

Plan for Travel Costs

 

Holiday travel can be one of the biggest expenses, especially if you’re traveling as a family. The earlier you plan, the more likely you are to snag better deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals.

• Book early: Prices rise as we get closer to the holidays, so lock in your travel plans now. Sign up for price alerts to get notified of any fare drops.

• Consider off-peak travel: Flying or driving during the middle of the week or on less popular days can often save you a lot of money.

• Pack snacks and meals: Save on expensive airport food or road trip stops by packing your own snacks and meals ahead of time.

Start a Holiday Savings Fund

 

While it’s a little late to start a major savings fund for this year’s holiday expenses, it’s never too early to plan for next year. A holiday savings fund allows you to gradually set aside money throughout the year, so by the time the next holiday season rolls around, you’ll already have a cushion in place.

• Open a separate account: Many banks allow you to create additional savings accounts, which makes it easy to keep your holiday funds separate from your other savings.

• Set up automatic transfers: Schedule a small amount to transfer into your holiday fund each week or month. Even $10 a week adds up to over $500 by the end of the year!

Plan for Emergencies

 

Even with the best-laid plans, there’s always something that pops up during the holidays—an unexpected gift exchange, a last-minute dinner invitation, or that one forgotten gift. Set aside a small buffer in your budget for these surprise expenses so they don’t catch you off guard.

If you don’t have life insurance yet, this is a great time to look into it. Instant life insurance allows you to apply online, get approved, and have your policy in place without having to go through a lengthy medical exam or waiting period. It’s affordable, convenient, and ensures your family is protected in case the unexpected happens. Many companies now offer customizable policies to fit your budget and needs.

Review your coverage regularly, especially during big life changes like having a baby, buying a house, or starting a new job. It’s always a good idea to make sure you have enough coverage to protect your loved ones.

With a little bit of planning and a solid financial game plan, you can enjoy the holidays without the stress of wondering how you’ll pay for it all. The key is to stay organized, be realistic with your spending, and remember what the season is really about—spending time with the people you love. Wishing you a wonderful, festive, and budget-friendly holiday season!

This article is in collaboration with Responsival!

Tips for Saving Big During the Festive Season...

Holiday Magic on a Budget:

Stick to your budget and stay stress-free this holiday season with tips for gifts, meals, décor, and more!

 

The holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and let’s be real spending. From gifts to décor to festive meals, it’s easy for the expenses to spiral out of control. But with a little planning and creativity, you can stick to your budget while still making the season special. Here’s a more in-depth guide to help you enjoy a magical holiday season without breaking the bank.

Make a List, Check It Twice

 

One of the easiest ways to overspend is to shop without a clear plan. Before you buy a single gift, take the time to write down everyone you need to shop for. This includes family, friends, teachers, neighbors, and anyone else you plan to treat this holiday season. Next to each name, set a realistic budget for what you can afford to spend. Keep in mind that it’s not about how much you spend, but the thought behind the gift.

Use a spreadsheet, app, or good old-fashioned notebook to track your spending as you shop. Apps like Santa’s Bag allow you to log gifts, budgets, and even note where you’ve hidden those sneaky stocking stuffers. By having a clear overview of your spending, you’ll avoid impulse purchases that can derail your budget.

DIY Your Decor

 

Holiday décor sets the mood, but buying new decorations every year can get expensive fast. Rather than shelling out for overpriced ornaments and wreaths, consider getting creative with DIY decorations. A quick search on Pinterest will reveal countless ideas for homemade crafts that can look just as beautiful as store-bought pieces.

For instance, salt dough ornaments are a great project to do with kids. You can make shapes like stars, trees, or even handprints, and decorate them with paint, glitter, or ribbon. Homemade garlands made of popcorn, cranberries, or paper chains are simple, festive, and budget-friendly.

You can also repurpose items from around your house—use mason jars filled with fairy lights as table centerpieces or make snow globes out of empty glass jars. These DIY touches add a personal, warm feeling to your holiday décor while keeping costs low.

Plan Meals and Potlucks

 

Holiday meals are often one of the biggest expenses, especially if you’re hosting a large gathering. But with a bit of planning, you can create a delicious feast without breaking the bank. Start by mapping out your meals ahead of time and making a detailed grocery list. This helps you avoid those costly last-minute grocery store runs for items you don’t really need. Plan your meals around seasonal, on-sale and in-season produce and ingredients. Root vegetables, cranberries, and winter squash are festive, affordable, and versatile!

If you’re hosting, consider making your event a potluck where everyone brings a dish. Not only does this spread the cost and effort, but it also adds variety to the table. You can focus on preparing the main course (like a turkey or ham), while others contribute sides, desserts, or beverages.

Gift Experiences, Not Stuff

 

One of the best ways to cut down on holiday spending is to rethink your approach to gift-giving. Instead of buying things that might end up in the back of the closet, consider gifting experiences that create lasting memories. Experiences can range from small, budget-friendly options like a homemade “coupon” for a movie night at home to more splurge-worthy gifts like tickets to a special event or a family day at the zoo.

Not only are experiences often more meaningful, but they can also save you money in the long run. For example, a family membership to a local museum or park provides a year’s worth of activities without adding to the clutter of toys or gadgets.

Use Cashback and Coupons

 

In today’s digital age, saving money on holiday shopping has never been easier. Before you hit “checkout” online or swipe your card in-store, always search for coupon codes or use cashback apps. Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Honey make it easy to earn money back on purchases you were going to make anyway. A little effort upfront can result in big savings over time.

Sign up for your favorite stores’ newsletters or download their apps to receive special discounts and promotions. Don’t be shy about stacking coupons with holiday sales to maximize your savings!

Shop Early and Online

 

Last-minute shopping is a recipe for overspending. When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to grab whatever is available, even if it costs more than you planned. Shopping early gives you time to find the best deals, compare prices, and avoid panic-buying. Plus, when you shop online, you can easily track your spending and avoid the temptation of in-store displays and sales that encourage you to overspend.

Another benefit of online shopping is that many retailers offer free shipping during the holiday season, which can save you both time and money. And don't forget to check online marketplaces like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Etsy for unique, affordable gifts.

Limit Travel Plans

Holiday travel can be one of the biggest budget-busters. If visiting family requires plane tickets or long road trips, the costs can quickly add up. If possible, limit your travel to one main trip or consider staying closer to home. Virtual gatherings, while not the same as in-person, have become more common and can still provide connection without the high price tag.

If you must travel, look for ways to save on transportation, such as booking flights early or traveling during off-peak days. You can also use points or rewards programs to cover some of your travel expenses.

Don’t Forget to Plan For Emergencies

It’s easy to get caught up in the joy and excitement, but it’s important to prepare for unexpected expenses. From last-minute gift exchanges at work to a sudden need for extra groceries because family decided to stay an extra few days, these unplanned costs can add up quickly. To avoid the stress, set aside a small buffer within your holiday budget. Even $50 to $100 can help cover those last-minute expenses without derailing your entire budget.

But planning for the unexpected isn’t just about the holidays—it’s about life in general. One crucial way to prepare is by having a safety net for your family. Consider setting up instant life insurance as part of your overall financial planning. Many companies now offer life insurance policies that are quick to apply for and don’t require a medical exam, making it easier than ever to protect your loved ones in case of an emergency. This peace of mind can help ensure that you’re not only prepared for the small holiday surprises but also for life’s bigger uncertainties.

Set Up a Savings Fund For Next Year

 

If the holidays always seem to catch you off guard financially, it’s time to start a holiday savings fund. Even putting aside a small amount each month—say, $25—can add up over the course of a year. By the time the holidays roll around, you’ll have a dedicated fund to cover gifts, meals, and other seasonal expenses without dipping into your regular budget.

Consider opening a separate savings account specifically for holiday spending, so you’re not tempted to use the money for other things throughout the year.

The holidays are a time for family, fun, and celebration—but they don’t have to be stressful, financially or otherwise. Planning ahead, sticking to a budget, and setting up safeguards for unexpected expenses can help you enjoy the season with peace of mind. The key is to be thoughtful with your spending and to focus on the moments that really matter. So this holiday season, embrace the joy, stay on budget, and don’t forget to prepare for the unexpected—because both big and small surprises are all part of the magic.

This article is in collaboration with Responsival!