9 Reasons You Should Try Pole Dancing This Year
Back in January, I originally posted these 9 reasons you should try pole dancing this year over on my website, Dear Curl Friend. Earlier this year I was planning to focus on building the DCF brand then I secure a part-time job as a Radio Personality. Building my personal brand became a priority. So now I’m back on my personal blog creating and repurposing content. Like this piece, full joy!
Pole dancing was once a taboo topic for me. To be honest, it was synonymous to stripping! Add to that the fact that I spent my undergrad and graduate years in Atlanta. The home of the strip club. You cannot drive around in Atlanta without seeing an adult club.
While I did not judge the concept or business that is the strip club. There was something about it that felt forbidden. That was until my first introduction to the pole. It was back in 2010 for a college sister’s birthday. I had heels. Not pleasers. I wore clothes. Too much. That experience opened my eyes to the idea that pole dancing wasn’t the dirty words I made them out to be.
There was something magical about freeing up in that way. Oh but the naysaying thoughts of the past crept back in and it was a full 7 years later before I gave Pole a try again. Only this time I had a pole sister in Atlanta who explain the benefits of doing pole dancing on a regular basis.
As I mentally prepared to move back to Bermuda in November 2017.
I was beyond excited to see Bermuda had a pole studio in Aerial Therapy. Once I secure the bag (aka my job at Ascendant). I decided to experience pole dancing in Bermuda on March 3. (Big shoutout to Mari for the exact date of my Bermudian poleversary).
If you’re on the fence about trying pole. If you feel how I felt about it being taboo. It’s not the “fitness” regimen you should be doing [insert limiting societal reason here]. I get it! I said similar things to myself that kept me from exploring something new. To encourage you in taking that first step to getting your first pole kiss. I reached out my AT sisters to come up with these 9 convincing reasons why you should try Pole this year:
(1) Build Full-Body Strength
Fitness goals are on everyone’s resolution lists each year. No matter how small or big those goals are. As a collective human race, we all want to be more fit and healthier every year.
Pole dancing is a great way to build core and full-body physical strength. There are moves where you will deadlift your body weight. Hello, arms! You will have to hold yourself up using your legs at times. Hey, there legs! If you are looking for a fitness activity that will make you strong. Consider pole as one such activity.
Suggested by: @shontesway and @livinginkham
(2) Learn to Judge Less
We live in the era of the Internet and social media gangs! Ok, ‘gang” may be a strong word. But online bullying is as much of a problem as offline bullying once was. The ability to be anonymous in your judgment is alluring. Especially for those who do not understand a person or their life.
When you come together with other people from all walks of life for ‘the love of pole’. That experience has a unique way of humbling you.
If you struggle with self-esteem issues. If you find yourself judging others. Take a pole class. Show up for the betterment of yourself. Watch how you transform!
Suggested by: @marimoves
(3) Become Comfortable with Uncomfortable Things
Have you noticed how you sometimes (or always) shy away from things that make you uncomfortable in life? It could be that confrontational conversation that you are trying to avoid. Embracing your body and its natural sensual/sexual movements. Keeping eye contact when talking to others.
We all have situations that make us feel uncomfortable for one reason or many! When you start pole you will begin to let go of those feelings. The tension you feel when something makes you feel uncomfortable is the first one to go. It doesn’t always happen after one class, though. But Sis, if you are that unicorn who embraces those uncomfortable moments early on, OWN THAT!
At some point in your pole journey. You will walk away with the ability to become comfortable with the uncomfortable. To be honest, this is a major reason and a big takeaway for starting pole.
Suggested by: @shontesway
(4) Deeper Respect for the Stripper/Sex Worker Foremothers
I alluded to this in the intro for this post. When my pole sister, Marilyn suggested it as a reason. I thought “yaaaaaasssss” now I can speak on it a bit deeper.
One thing I have learned about myself from my upbringing is that I judged things that were different. Most of the times it was because someone older than me had an opinion on it. I may not have agreed with them. But their seniority trumped my individuality. At least that is how they presented it.
Now in my late twenties, I have a completely different view on life. As well as on topics that were once taboo to me. There are strippers and sex worker foremothers who have BEEN doing this. They endured social stigmas and were slut-shamed. Long before pole dancing became “mainstream”.
Even with years of experience stripping, sex working or pole dancing for fitness. It is hard to make ANYTHING you do on the pole look easy. Join the ranks of the pole foremothers and get your first pole kiss this year!
Suggested by: @marimoves
(5) Evolution of Your Self Discovery
You are an evolving being. The person you were yesterday is not the same as who you are today. That is a beautiful thing, no? With each passing day, we are learning new things about ourselves.
One area some of us are timid to explore is OUR BODY. Mind you it is ours to do with what we please (in moderation and keeping safety first, of course). When you start pole dancing, you will discover new things about your body. You will begin to be able to do things with your body that you never imagined you could do. You may have even said, “I’ll never be able to do a split”. Gwaan and tek a few pole classes and watch your flexibility improve.
Suggested by @lace.love.pole, @shontesway, and @marimoves
(6) Learn the Art of the Free Up
Some of us struggle with being our most authentic self. It takes a while to warm up to the idea of letting others see who we are. The things we like and dislike in life. What we will and will not do in front of others.
When you begin your pole journey, this is something you will learn for yourself. How to free up, let loose and go with the flow of whatever your body and spirit want to do that day. One of the things we as humans do. We have an expectation in our mind of what we should do. Most of the time it because of what we see others doing. Then when it’s our turn to do it in real life, we freeze up. For one reason or another. We discourage ourselves because we fear real life won’t mimic the dream we sold ourselves.
Starting your pole journey, as with a Yoga journey, will teach you to honour where your body is at that moment. If your free up is a mini twerk to some ratchet hip hop music. Then sis let that mini twerk be the best one of your life for that moment.
When your sexy beast has matured. The mini twerk will turn into controlling the left cheek then the right and back again. We will then say “mission accomplished”!
Suggested by @marimoves
(7) For Self Empowerment and Self Love
If you do not want to do anything that sets your soul on fire. Ask someone else what they think of your idea. Listen to the doubt in their voice when they give you 101 reasons why you should do it! Then tell yourself to stop asking people for permission to live your most amazing life!
We have a weird habit of seeking other’s approvals for things that do not affect them. We need to spend more time uplifting and empowering ourselves. So much so that we do not go to others for validation of an idea. But only to update them on the happenings of our lives.
If you’re someone who does the above often, pole dancing is self-empowering. The sensual and sexual movements put you in a “FUCK IT UP” mood! One that cares zero about the opinions of others.
Suggested by @livinginkham, @marimoves, and @terri2kool (me)
(8) Unleash Your Creativity
Yes. It is intimidating when you step into your first class and you see your pole instructor moving with ease. Meanwhile, you’re struggling to put on your heels. As a new booty at Aerial Therapy. A took away a major key. Mari’s goal was to help her students become confident in their ability to create combos on their own.
After showing up weekly to class. Getting the ability to practice the moves each week. I found myself able to create a combo of my own. I could recall moves that were my “favourites” and worked on my version of fluidity to get into and out of those moves.
The way you walk. How you talk. The way you dress and move. The music you start to embrace when you begin your pole journey. Gives you permission to be as creative as you want to be in that space.
Suggested by: @marimoves
(9) Supportive Community
The capstone reason. You will gain a new group of sisters to grow and celebrate your achievements with. I am an advocate for self-care, self-awareness, and self-love. That’s the primary reason I included the self-related reasons before this one. When you’re in tune with your highest self, all other things work in your favour.
One such thing is the community that will support you in your pole goals! Sis. You may want to learn how to do the splits. When you’re in class and you start making your way into whatever split you can do today. Let me tell you that your pole sisters will pipe you as you have never experienced before. (At least the ones at Aerial Therapy do).
With the evolution of the pole dancing community via social media. You will gain online Sisters to share your experiences. You can exchange pole kiss stories and gain some advice to achieving your pole goals.
Suggested by: @livinginkham, @marimoves, and @terri2kool (me)
I want to thank my Pole Sisters Jubilee, Shonte and Khamani for their suggestions! To my pole muva/sis Mari for the conversation that started the inspiration for this post.
One thing I’d like to leave you with is my word for 2019, which is alignment. When you decide to start pole dancing, please make sure it aligns with YOUR reason why. I hope these 9 give you the encouragement you needed to take that first class or get back in the studio.
When you choose to do things that align with your spirit and your ‘why’, it will always be enjoyable. Even when you’re tired. You will be craving your next pole kiss (like I currently am). I look forward to seeing your pole “Transformation Tuesday” posts on Instagram. I’ll be looking for all the social proof that you decided to flip the bird to society. That you decided to embrace the “taboos” that allow you to explore another level of your being.
3 Reasons Why You Should Sign Up for LinkedIn
If you are not retired and looking to build your professional network. I have 3 reasons why you should sign up for LinkedIn today!
Once upon a time, LinkedIn was known as the social media network for active, and passive, job seekers to post their resume online. I remember when I first created my account, I didn’t populate it at least for a month or two. By the time I did, it was with the bare minimum. I had just enough to feel out each section, which at the time was not nearly as much as they have today. That was circa 2009.
Now 10 years later, I have what LinkedIn describes as an All-Star profile. You may have started to read this post with a basic LinkedIn profile like I had back in 2009. You are probably looking for tips to improve your account, if this is you, STOP! Click this link to take a short survey to help me with my next FREE guide.
If you have never heard of LinkedIn, heard of it but don’t know if you should create an account, KEEP READING. This one’s for you!
What is LinkedIn?
Informally I would describe this social media platform as the place where the professionals like to hang out. But if you google LinkedIn, you will see under the LinkedIn.com result the website is described as the place to “manage your professional identity, build and engage your professional network, as well as access knowledge, insights, and opportunities.”
Similar to other social media networks, you can connect with people you know IRL (in real life) and people you have met along your professional journey. This is perfect if you are just starting out in your career or making a career swift and need to build new connections. LinkedIn is one account every professional should have an account with no matter how non-technical the industry may be.
If you want to learn more about LinkedIn, click here to download my FREE guide. I go into further detail about LinkedIn and help you get started with creating an account.
I Have Reasons Why Should You Join LinkedIn
There are 3 specific reasons you should get a LinkedIn account if you don’t have one already. If you do have one but never took it serious these 3 reasons should inspire you to go over and optimise your profile.
#1. It is a Dynamic, Online Version of Your Resume
If you have never seen LinkedIn, check out my profile here.
As you can see from viewing my profile, I can include all the ‘general’ information you would expect to see on a traditional resume. Such as an ‘About’ section which is built off what is typically an objective statement. I have my Work experience, Educational background, plus my Volunteer activities. The major difference between my LinkedIn profile and a traditional resume is that my LinkedIn profile is dynamic.
Let me explain what I mean by the first of my LinkedIn reasons…
While you can update the electronic version of your resume as often as daily. Typically it’s not something you do unless you are applying for a new job or are asked for it say to apply for a grant or scholarship. If you’re anything like me, you probably haven’t thought about your resume since starting your current job. Plus finding where you saved it on your computer or within the cloud is another task.
That is why I say LinkedIn is a dynamic, online version of your resume. Not only can you maintain whatever frequency for updates you would on your ‘static’ resume. There is a greater chance of more people seeing it just because they are on the website or app then when you send it out for job applications or that grant/scholarship you want to get.
The potential reach your LinkedIn profile is exposed to is a major reason why you should sign up for it.
If you don’t know how to get started with LinkedIn, I have a FREE step-by-step guide to help walk you through the process.
#2. Establish Professional Social Proof
For the purposes of this post, I am going to assume you are not a social media manager for a brand. If you are, skip this first paragraph as I am going to break down what social proof is. From my friends over at Buffer, when it comes to marketing social proof is the psychological phenomenon where people assume the actions of others in an attempt to reflect correct behavior for a given situation. But what does that really mean, Terri? Simply put it the evidence you have to prove your authority in a particular field and/or on a specific subject matter.
When we look and marketing from a non-personal brand standpoint, it is pretty easy for us to recognise a brand’s social proof. Coca Cola and Pepsi in the soft drink/beverage world. The Body Shop for social conscious beauty products. H&M and Forever 21 for fast fashion styles.
Alternatively, when it comes to public figures, unless we KLT (know, like and trust) them, we are not as easily persuaded to believe what they say. Using LinkedIn to build your professional clout is perfect for the 21st century as it gives you access to a broader audience for free*. You are able to make genuine professional connections on a topic you are passionate and knowledgeable about. This is not something that generations past had at their fingertips.
* means that while you don’t have to pay to have an account with LinkedIn, you are required to agree to their terms which depending on your opinion on the terms may be an intangible cost to you.
#3. Manage Your Professional Network Where They Hang Out
Maybe saying ‘hang out’ is corny. Maybe it’s appropriate. Either way! Let’s talk about meeting your target audience right where they are. At this point, I hope you have gathered that you are marketing yourself online. This is true for every social media platform you have an account with. It may be intentional (where you have a specific strategy). It also may be unintentional (where you post to keep your friends and family updated on your life).
Whichever group you fall into, knowing where your audience hangs out is key to getting the most benefit online. Since we have been talking about LinkedIn today, I suspect your target audience are:
- like-minded professionals (colleagues or new connections),
- potential bosses,
- HR representatives,
- mentors, etc.
While I am sure each of these persons may have one other social media account such as Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. They are not using those other platforms as heavily for “work-related stuff” as they are using LinkedIn.
If they are, they are doing it wrong! Hence why I created theses LinkedIn reasons blog post.
LinkedIn does a great job of suggesting new connections with you based on your profile updates. If you’re not sure how to optimise your profile, download my FREE guide today. I have a section where I walk you through the basics, step-by-step.
While vanity metrics are still a thing on LinkedIn. Your primary goal should be to have built a network of people you know IRL. The powerful thing about LinkedIn is that when you see people who are outside of your network, you can see the actual degree of separation. By that I mean, a 1st connection is someone you have within your primary network. Those outside of your primary network are your 2nd and 3rd, etc. connections. This is major when you start to think about how you want to leverage the platform to grow your social capital on and offline.
I could personally go on for hours on the topic of LinkedIn. Social media is one of my digital loves. I recognise the potential this particular platform has in helping young professionals leverage their skills. Formally educated or not. Each one of us can use LinkedIn to grow professionally.
If you would like to dive deeper into tips and tricks for LinkedIn. Click here to learn more about my LinkedIn Lessons.
The Best 19 Personal Development Apps for a New and Improved You
[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]
Personal development is a HOT topic. Especially for millennials and generation Z in recent years. I’ve created this list of 19 personal development apps. They will help you become a new and improved version of yourself. As a collective, we know it is important to focus on improving ourselves as individuals. But we often face various roadblocks:
- We don’t know how to get started
- Once we start, we aren’t consistent
- If we are consistent, we’re not tracking our results
These roadblocks keep us from accomplishing our goals. We [Millennials] are the generation that grew up with the Internet. Others of us [Generation Z] are the generation that has always know the Internet to be a “thing”. As a collective, we struggle with getting the basics of personal development down. If you have found yourself faced with one of the roadblocks mentioned above AND you are:
- Ready to invoke a #NoExcusesPolicy this year
- Tired of setting but not achieving your personal development goals
- Trying to execute a personal development plan
THIS POST IS FOR YOU
As you continue reading, you will find 19 personal development apps. These applications are in four (4) different categories or sections. I want to help you to:
- determine what kind of personal development apps you want to download
- better categorise the apps once they are on your device
Are you ready for a new and improved version of yourself? Click here to download the free bonus PDF to accompany this blog post.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Personal Development Apps For Connecting to Your Higher Power” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center|color:%239e515f” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671201441{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Create a category on your device for Spirituality to group these applications together.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Disclaimer: These applications may not be useful to you if you are not a Christian. Particularly if spirituality is important to your personal development journey. Please email via terrik@terri2kool.com if this is you. I am keen to look into applications that focus on other religious backgrounds. This will give me an opportunity to include them in a similar future version.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”1. She Reads Truth / He Reads Truth” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671182750{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 5px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
She Reads Truth and He Reads Truth create Bible reading plans that guide hundreds of thousands of men and women across the world in reading the Bible together every day.
This is my favourite application for diving deeper into Jah’s word. I am currently a member of their digital subscription. For $1.99 USD/month, I have access to the current reading plan plus any of the past plans. I was a previous subscriber of the physical study book version when I lived in Atlanta. The company does ship globally. But there were delays in getting my study on time to start a new plan, for instance. I recommend getting this app as one of the 19 personal development apps for a new and improved you. Especially if you are a Christian who wants to create a habit of reading God’s word daily.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”2. Abide” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671173936{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Abide, is the world’s most popular Christian meditation app, guiding hundreds of thousands of people around the world in Biblical truth and personal reflection.
This is the perfect application if you’d like to meditate over God’s word throughout the day. I find it most useful to use because it helps me drift off to sleep nightly. You can change the duration of the study from 15-90 minutes for the Sleep feature. Alternatively, if you are looking to do a daily meditation the durations are 2-15 minutes. I am subscribed as a Member where I pay $4.99 USD/month to gain access to longer audio guides, etc. I would recommend this app to a Christian wants to build a habit of listening to Jah’s word daily.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”3. Bible” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671166554{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
The Bible App offers a free Bible experience for smartphones, tablets, and online at Bible.com.
If you are a Christian TECHIE like myself who enjoys all things digital. This is an app you are going to want to have. Over the years they have added lots of different features. You can invite friends to do a reading plan with you. Also, you can share your studies with friends and family on social media, plus much more. Get this app as one of the 19 personal development apps to improve your current version of yourself. Particularly if you’re a Christian who wants to build your relationship with your Creator.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”4. Sprinkle of Jesus” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671158450{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Sprinkle of Jesus is a Christian publication that not only shows you how to have a closer relationship with Christ but teaches you how to live a life full of financial abundance.
Do you enjoy receiving nuggets of wisdom from the Bible? Would you enjoy a practical application of God’s word to your real world? If this is you, you need to download the SOJ app like yesterday! You will receive push notifications on your device of a:
- Bible Verse
- Quote
- Affirmation
All will continue to ground you in Jah’s word. I recommend this app if you like a 21st-century presentation of the sacred texts of Christianity.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Personal Development Apps For Quieting the Mind” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center|color:%239e515f” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671430917{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Create a category on your device for Mindfulness to group these applications together.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”5. 5 Minute Journal” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671148571{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
The Five Minute Journal App asks you three questions designed to instil gratitude, set purpose for your day, and create empowering beliefs.
For a one time fee of $4.99, you will have lifetime access to a journal. As mentioned above, you will receive prompts to express what you are grateful for that day. What do you want to focus on to have a great day? PLUS you will create an affirmation statement over your day. Another PLUS is that on Sundays-Thursdays and on Saturdays, you will receive a quote of the day. On Fridays, there is a weekly challenge for you to do. If you are looking to improve your attitude of gratitude, I recommend you download this app as one of the 19 personal development apps for a new and improved you.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”6. Tide” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671139722{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Tide is a free app that helps you live better, sleep better. With various nature sounds you can start inspiring hours, coffee breaks, a quick nap or bedtime.
White noise is by far one of the best ways to quiet your mind as you prepare to meditate or be productive. There are four (4) themes on this application that you can use to set your intention for “quiet time”. The first is Focus which I use for when I want to dedicate a block of time towards one task. I use Sleep on the weekends if I want to take a nap. I also use it sometimes during the week as an alternative to using Abide to aide me in sleeping. Alternatively, Breathe is the theme I use when I am going to meditate. There are sound prompts for when you should Inhale and Exhale.
Finally, Relax is the newest theme and it is a guided meditation theme. This is perfect if you are new to meditating but cannot seem to quiet your mind on your own. If you are looking to centre yourself. If you want to create a habit of using your better time management, I recommend this app.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”7. Noisli” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671130815{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Noisli is a fantastic background noise and colour generator for working and relaxing.
This app is like Tide as it can also assist you on your productivity aspirations. It only offers white noises that you can mix and match. Such sounds include:
- ocean waves
- fire burning
- rain falling
- and more
These sounds can be played together to create the perfect background noise. This will help you to narrow your focus on whatever task you have set for yourself. You can also adjust the volume of each sound you turn on. You can make one sound louder. For instance, if that’s one that quiets your mind and allows your laser focus.
It is perfect for those studying for an exam who do not like utter silence. You can also use it if you are creating content for your blog/website. You are uploading content to your online shop. Whatever task you have set for yourself, use this as one of the 19 personal development apps that will help you stay focused.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”8. Headspace” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671121302{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Live a healthier, happier, more well-rested life in just a few minutes a day with the Headspace app.
This is a guided meditation app. I no longer have the monthly subscription but I have used it in the past. You can sign up for free, especially if you are new to meditation. This app is great for beginners. There is a track that you follow once you’ve registered. Once you have completed that track, you can follow themes related to sleep, focus, anxiety and so much more. You will only be able to access the extra tracks once you’ve subscribed.
If you are a student there is an annual rate that is HEAVILY discounted. Also, if you would like to share among your family, for $19.99/month you will have access to 6 accounts. However, you cannot buy the Family plan on an annual basis. For individuals, buy the annual plan to save $5/month versus if you only paid on a monthly basis. If you prefer guided meditation versus the DIY approach to meditation. This app is the one you should download!
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”9. Oprah & Deepak’s 21-Day Meditation Experience” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671110328{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
In the 21-Day Meditation Experience, Oprah and Deepak guide you on a free online journey to enjoy the life-changing benefits of meditation in an easy and inspiring way.
This is another guided meditation app. You receive free access to the upcoming meditation experience when you register. You also receive links to health and wellness articles and videos. PLUS you will receive helpful meditation tips and tools. After each experience, you can buy the full version of that particular experience. That will allow you to dive deeper into the meditation practice. If that is not something you are ready for, that’s okay! Continue to use the app for the free access it provides. I still do!
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Personal Development Apps for Learning Something New or Finding Joy” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center|color:%239e515f” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671444501{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Create an Education or Entertainment category to group these applications together.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”10. TED” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671099842{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
TED Talks are influential videos from expert speakers on education, business, science, tech and creativity, with subtitles in 100+ languages.
We’ve all heard or seen a TED Talk on YouTube. Someone shared it with us because they thought it would inspire us. They wanted to motivate us to get moving to achieve a goal we set for ourselves. If you struggle with staying motivated or keeping content in your feed that is uplifting. I recommend you actually download the TED app as one of the 19 personal development apps for an improved version of yourself. You may find it more valuable to be in the actual application. Using another app such as YouTube to play their content can lead to distractions!
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”11. Udemy” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671091234{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Udemy is an online learning and teaching marketplace with over 100,000 courses and 24 million students.
On Udemy, you are sure to find something related to:
- your profession
- your hobbies
- or a topic you’ve always wanted to learn more about
Formal education is great! If you achieved it, that is awesome. You’re learning should never stop because you finished a degree and got a good job. You created a good job for yourself, also awesome! We should all continue to seek to be students of Life University. Seeking to be our best selves is the goal. A platform like Udemy can help you on that journey!
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”12. Babbel” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671082063{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Babbel is a new way to learn a foreign language. The comprehensive learning system combines effective education methods with state-of-the-art technology.
We live in a time where we connect with people who may speak a different language than us. If you’ve always wanted to learn a second, third, or tenth language, I’d recommend you check out this app as one of the 19 personal development apps for a new and improved you. I tried it for a bit for free and fell in love. But at the time, the financial commitment was outside of my realm. If you’ve made the decision to work towards learning a new language. Check out the pricing to get started on becoming more fluent in another language.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”13. Apple Podcasts” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671069942{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Discover free audio stories that entertain, inform, and inspire.
Having an app that allows you to listen to content that motivates and inspires you is important. I am an iPhone user. So, I am partial to applications that are native on my device. But, I am aware of other applications allow you to listen to podcasts such as:
Once you have found an app that you love, there is a podcast for EVERYTHING. Whatever you are struggling to develop in yourself, type in a keyword or two and BOOM. You will have a list of podcasts to choose from. Above all, be sure to rate and review the podcasts if you enjoy the content. That helps the creators to rank higher. This will allow them to continue to create more FREE content for you to enjoy.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”14. Elevate” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557670963269{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Elevate is a brain training app designed to help you stay sharp, build confidence, and boost productivity.
Whether you’re still in school learning or you’ve since achieved all the degrees you wanted. You should never stop learning. There are lots of studies out there that encourage learning into our golden years. This app is the perfect companion for any of your “online course” work. The format is game-style. In other words, it should prove to be a welcomed change from the other learning methods you are taking. There is a 14-day trial that you can use to try out the application. The annual fee is $39.99, so for less than $4 per month, you can train your brain to be sharper than it was the day before.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Personal Development Apps for Getting Your Read On” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center|color:%239e515f” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557671459848{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Set up a category on your device for Reading to group these applications together.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”15. Audible” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557670952526{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Use your smartphone, tablet, Amazon device or computer to listen to Audible* audiobooks wherever you go.
Disclaimer: The link above marked with an asterisk (*) is an affiliate link. If you choose to sign up for Audible using it, I will receive compensation at no extra charge to you. To learn more, please read my full disclaimer here.
Finding time to read can be a struggle. There is so much that is calling for your attention. From work to school. Deadlines to meet. Self-care to prioritise. Taking care of your loved ones’ needs. All that plus so much more! You gave yourself the resolution to read more, yet you don’t know which 1-2 hours you can sacrifice to get it done. That’s where Audible comes in. For those tasks which you do not need complete silence to concentrate, I encourage to play an audiobook from one of the 19 personal development apps for a new and improved you. Because you’ll be productive AND do some “reading”.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”16. Good Reads” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557670942275{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Find and read more books you’ll love, and keep track of the books you want to read as part of the world’s largest book lovers community.
If you’re into checking books off your reading lists, I recommend downloading this app. Because you are able to browse, create your own “library” of books and a book list to read from. I’m still in my early stages of using this app, but I found it quite intriguing because at the beginning of each new year. I do tend to create a list of books that I want to read for the year. I’ve used the native note app on my iPhone and other note-taking apps as well. But I find that when the app is niche-specific like for reading, I am more likely to use it for that intended purpose.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”17. Kindle” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557670917022{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
The Kindle app puts millions of books, magazines, and newspapers at your fingertips.
This app is perfect for the book-loving Amazon user. If you already have a collection of books, magazines or newspapers. You can connect to your account via the Kindle app. Any purchases you make via the Amazon site will be available on your device. You will need to login to your Amazon account within the app for it show when you are in the purchasing stage. If you do not, you will be able to push it to your device after.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”18. Apple Books” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557670923657{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Lose yourself in a good story right on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
This is the Apple native app for Booklovers. But, if you are not an Apple user, Play Books is an alternative. While you can download that app on an iOS device. It is redundant to have both unless you purchased books within the Play Books app. Especially if you were a longtime Android user before switching to iPhone. If you’re not keen to sign up for the Amazon products for book lovers. Give Apple Books or Google Play Books a try. You will have access to various books in electronic form and can read them on any device. As long as the device connects to your iTunes or Play Store account.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”19. Blinkist” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23b07773″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1557670886195{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text]
Blinkist lets you read the key lessons from 3000+ nonfiction books in 15 min or fewer.
Do you sometimes get stuck on what book you want to read next? Me too! Even with a booklist. Even with recommendations from others. Often, I still find myself wondering, “what do I want to read next?” I love this app for providing me with free daily Blinks which are summaries of a new book everyday day. I have push notifications turned on so I can catch them. But, if you prefer to check the email they send with your weekly recap, go for it! This is perfect if you want to revisit it on the weekend when you may have more time to decide on what to read next.
This app is like Audible in that it offers access to audiobooks when you sign up for one of their plans. Additionally, it does offer some extra features. The one I love the most is that you can sync your highlights to Evernote. This is perfect if you highlight something to quote later. If you would like to write a report or review of the book, this feature is golden. With it you don’t have to manage notes while reading, you can full joy the act of reading!
[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” align=”align_left” accent_color=”#b07773″ css=”.vc_custom_1557673074723{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”][vc_column_text][mailerlite_form form_id=9][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”blog”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Here’s How to Build Leg Strength – Beginners Workout
[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]
It is important to build leg strength. Just as it is important to build your core, your arms, your back, etc. I have found that men tend to enjoy leg day more than women. There are no scientific findings that I researched to support that. At the moment, I only have anecdotal conversations with my friends and workout partners as survey responses!
Yes. I know it can be a struggle to find the time to do a simple workout regimen that will help you build leg strength sometimes. I have found that a monthly challenge makes it fun and keeps you on track.
We ALL have fitness goals we want to crush this year. That is one of the reasons why you are reading this post. Another reason you find yourself here is that you want to learn how to build leg strength no matter your fitness level. Over the course of 31 days, you will gain strength in your legs and you will fear leg day NO MORE!
Before you start any exercise regimen it is important that you go into it listening to your body.
Take stock of your current leg strength.
If you have access to a gym try to do 5-7 reps on machines that target your leg muscles.
Increase the weight each time until you get to a point where you cannot do the exercise with a quality rep.
I also suggest that you check the range of motion of your legs. This could include leg swings, lunges, or a forward fold.
Avoiding injury is the number one rule of working out. It would be a shame for you to start this regimen thinking your legs are stronger than they actually are. You strain or pull your muscle because you overexerted yourself. Then you have to take time off to rest the muscle. If during this challenge you feel you cannot complete a particular set of reps or exercise. Please stop.
Disclaimer: I am not a Personal trainer nor am I a health or medical professional. If you have concerns about your ability to complete an exercise. Please consult your physician immediately.
Warm Up/Cool Down
- I recommend doing at least 3 minutes for your warm up and cool down.
- During your warm up, I would suggest doing active stretching.
- While during your cool down, you can focus on passive stretching.
Build Leg Strength – A Beginner’s 31-Day Challenge
This beginner’s workout consists of various leg exercises that anyone can do. If you are just starting out or getting back into working out, this challenge is PERFECT for you. If you are a bit more advanced and want a challenge. Double up the reps!
The duration for each set is 10 days. It is ideal to begin on the first day of a month with 31 days. But that is not required. Feel free to start whenever you want. All you will need to do is keep track of where you are in the challenge.
Exercises for Set 1 to Build Leg Strength
- Lateral Lunges
- Lunges
- Reverse Lunge Knee Drives
Reps for Set 1
You will start the first day of this set with 10 reps. Each day following you should increase your rep count by 10. This set concludes after 10 days. On Day 10 you should be doing 100 reps of each exercise within this set.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FREE GUIDE FOR SET 1
Exercises for Set 2 to Build Leg Strength
- Squats
- Aeroplanes
- Squat Jumps
Reps for Set 2
This set starts on Day 11 and it will also start with 10 reps. Similar to Set 1, each day follow there will be an increase of reps by 10. By Day 20, you should be doing 100 reps of each exercise within the set.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FREE GUIDE FOR SET 2
Exercises for Set 3 to Build Leg Strength
- Cross Back Lunges
- Split Squats
- Drop Squats
Reps for Set 3
The final set of this challenge contains 11 days. You will start Day 21 with the same 10 reps as you have in Sets 1 and 2. But on Day 31 instead of ending with 100 reps, you will be doing 110 reps of each exercise within this set.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FREE GUIDE FOR SET 3
Created with the “beginner” in mind
You should be able to view either of the guides and know exactly how many of each exercise you should be doing on any given day. It should not be too much work for you to remember what to do. All you should have to do is set aside the time to do the workout.
That can honestly be the most difficult part, setting aside the time. I recommend doing one or more of the following:
- Working out at a time that is convenient for you
- Scheduling a block of time in your personal calendar
- Setting a reminder for you to start your work
- Do the challenge with at least one other person. You can be each other’s accountability partner
Know that this is YOUR challenge. If you need to modify the number of reps on a specific exercise, GO FOR IT. Need to split reps up so you can do one half in the morning and the other half in the evening, DO IT! Whatever works best for you, your body and your current fitness level DO THAT! Be sure to slide in my DMs or tag me on social media, @terri2kool. I can be your honourary accountability partner if you want to do this challenge on your own.
Next month, there will be another fitness challenge for you to conquer. If you want the exclusive on that challenge before it hits the site. All you have to do is enter your contact details below.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”blog”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
