Author

Women of Rubies

Browsing

Do you suffer from recurrent headaches, insomnia or inability to have a relaxing sleep, stomach upset, and lack of appetite, low energy, mental distress, emotional imbalance, and irritation?

You need some self-care ASAP.

If at any point in your life you are unable to create a balance, then you need self-care. For example, if you live with a bunch of crazies as roommates and are always unhappy or stressed, self-care is the answer.

Self-care is the act of deliberately indulging in activities that make us burst forth like a spring bloom. It means taking control of your emotional, physical, mental, financial, spiritual, and every other aspect of your life. Every step you take to cater to the well-being of yourself is self-care. After all, who would not want some minutes, hours, or days of self-love? There is the need to recharge, be refreshed, and be ready for the road ahead, and having a self-care routine will help you achieve these.

Before forging ahead, remember that self-care is different for everyone. It is not a one-size-fits-all thing. The best part about self-care is to do what is good for you.

Self-care refers to different things for different people. For some, a day in bed without disturbance or watching their favorite movies is self-care. However, it is crucial to note that everyone approaches this seemingly simple activity differently.

So, what are the benefits of self-care?
  • Self-Care Improves Your Physical Health – Self-care reminds you to critically look at yourself and improve on it. Simple activities like brushing, flossing, exercising, sleeping, or eating well are things we often forget to do as we pursue the good life, but they are beneficial to our personal well-being.
  • Self-Care Reduces Stress, Anxiety, and Depression – This idea is tied to the point above. Simple practices like running a bath, yoga, meditation, music, or indulging in a favorite hobby are self-care ideas. They also allow you to relax, calm your mood, and boost your mental health and consequently, your overall well-being.
  • Self-Care Prevents the Onset of Mental Health Issues – Simple changes to your routine like eating well, sleeping longer, taking a day off to relax are ways to help restore and maintain your sanity. While self-care is not a substitute for professional help, it is a reliable way to prevent and manage mental health issues, especially in women.
  • Self-Care Increases Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence – Self-care allows you to concentrate on the things that make you happy. For example, by taking a longer bath, you become more relaxed and sure that your skin is refreshed, which also boosts your self-worth and confidence.

You live in such a demanding and hectic world and sometimes, life can get so busy and overwhelming that you forget to care for yourself. These self-care ideas allow you to create a comfortable balance to the chaos around you.

Women all over the world are working themselves to death. Whether as a career women, a mom, a wife, a friend, a confidant, or whatever, they are always in a hurry to satisfy everyone but themselves.

An African proverb says, “no matter how much you solve people’s problems, it will never run out.”

However, you can run out if you do not slow down. So, go at your pace. Happiness starts with you.

Here are 12 self-care ideas and routines for women.

1. Go for a Medical Check

Go for a medical check—and I do not mean over-the-counter chatting with the friendly pharmacist, but in a real hospital. A medical check is not necessary because something is wrong but to ensure nothing is going wrong. Many women, especially those in their early 40s, 50s, or even late 30s, never get a medical routine until something goes wrong. Do not wait to be a victim of life’s unbalances—go for a medical check today.

2. Be Kind to Yourself

For some funny reason, women are never kind to themselves. They live in this mental bubble that everyone’s kindness is ours. Hold it and take a couple of steps back.
No, your happiness is just as important as the next person. Sacrifice is a woman’s thing, but self-neglect and denial are not a part of it. If you can be kind to others, be kind to yourself, too.

3. Take a Spa Day

You deserve it, and it is a relaxing way to knock aches and pains away with a deep massage, pedicure, manicure, and facial. You will come out of it looking sexier, more confident, and more relaxed.

4. Do Something You Love and Enjoy

This can be anything you love but have not done in a long time. It can be reading a book, having a lunch date with your girlfriends, or glancing through your favorite magazine. Remember, it must be something that you love doing.

5. Define a Morning Routine

How are your mornings like? If it is like the regular, change it. Add some warm lemon water as a detox start, plank for 30 seconds to boost your strength, and eat breakfast. The goal is to do something that triggers your happy hormones and makes your day as bright as the sun.

6. Start a Self-Care Journal

Journaling has become a viral habit since the pandemic. Not only does it remind you of where you are, but it is also a technique to unwind emotionally and mentally. If you haven’t started a journal, this is the time to do just that. Overall, journaling is a great way to reflect on each day and its impact on you.

7. Take Your Sleep Time Seriously

Women are the first to wake up and the last people to sleep every night. While it is a good habit to watch over those you love, you need to love yourself too, and sleep is a relaxing way to start. Create a sleep routine and stick to it.

For example, make it a priority to sleep by 9 pm and wake at 5 am. This gives you about eight hours of sleep, which is good. Never push your tiredness beyond the boundaries of your strength. Sleep.

8. Learn to Say No

Nobody ever died from saying or hearing the words “no,” so learn it. You cannot give what you do not possess and believe me, selfish love is never a good thing. If you cannot do a task, just say no.

9. Be Unapologetic About Your Actions

Aren’t you tired of explaining your life to everyone? Stop it! This is the time to quit being apologetic for begin you and just live life. If you know in your heart that your actions are healthy, beneficial, and productive, never apologize.

10. Forgive Your Past

If there is one thing that is holding you back from enjoying your present, it is your past. We all have pasts, some of them we overlook, and others we cannot move past it. The only reason is our inability to forgive. Settle down, go through it and forgive. You do not have to understand it, you just have to move on.

11. Bask in the Silence

The world is too noisy, and we are constantly in the middle of chaos. If you have never tried this as a self-care idea, include it in your next day off. There is the need for stillness to enable us to appreciate our surroundings. Acts of silence could be watching the sunset or drinking your morning coffee without any interruptions.

12. Practice Conscious Living

Conscious living is being aware of your every move, decision, and its effect on your life and others. Most times, we drift through life like a piece of log on an open ocean with no sense of direction. When you practice conscious living, you are aware of yourself and what your presence signifies in the world around you.

How to Create a Self-Care Routine

In addition, here are some tips and ideas on how to create a self-care routine:

  • Do the things you loved or love.
  • Go back to the simple things of life.
  • Be aware of your current situation (do not do more than what you can handle).
  • Remember that it is about yourself first.
  • Do not wait until the weekend. Use every free time you have.
  • Start small and be consistent.
  • Focus on activities that build you physically, emotionally, and mentally.
  • Repeat the ideas that work well and add something new.
  • Use sticky notes to remind yourself.
  • It is not about perfection.
  • Go at your own pace.
Final Thoughts

Now, these are self-care ideas that anyone can add to or take away from, but make sure you choose practices that work for you. Remember to include activities that boost your mental and emotional health, too.

Self-care is not just about physical health and outward appearances. It is a complete method of transforming yourself by caring about your needs.

For working mothers, the juggling act of managing a career while nurturing a family is a demanding yet deeply rewarding journey. As they strive to strike a harmonious balance between professional aspirations and maternal duties, working moms can benefit from practical strategies to navigate this intricate dance. Here are some invaluable tips to empower and support these multitasking marvels in their pursuit of both career success and fulfilling motherhood.

1. Embrace Time Management Strategies

Efficient time management is the linchpin for working mothers. Adopting strategies like prioritizing tasks, setting realistic goals, and leveraging productivity tools can help streamline responsibilities both at work and home.

2. Cultivate a Support System

Building a robust support network is crucial for working moms. Whether it’s a reliable babysitter, supportive family members, or understanding colleagues, having a strong support system ensures a safety net during challenging times.

3. Establish Boundaries

Define clear boundaries between work and personal life. Setting specific work hours and designating personal time fosters a healthier balance, allowing working moms to be fully present in both professional and familial spheres.

4. Embrace Flexibility

Flexibility is key in the life of a working mom. Seek flexible work arrangements, explore remote work options, or negotiate adaptable schedules to accommodate unexpected family commitments while fulfilling professional responsibilities.

5. Prioritize Self-Care

Amidst the demands of motherhood and career, self-care often takes a back seat. However, prioritizing personal well-being is crucial. Whether it’s allocating time for exercise, relaxation, or pursuing personal interests, self-care enhances overall resilience.

6. Efficient Meal Planning

Simplify meal planning to save time and ensure a balanced diet for the family. Batch cooking, meal prepping, and involving family members in cooking activities can make the dining experience enjoyable and stress-free.

7. Delegate Responsibilities

Delegating tasks, both at home and work, is a powerful strategy. Assigning age-appropriate responsibilities to children and collaborating with partners on household chores can lighten the load, promoting a more equitable distribution of responsibilities.

8. Nurture Open Communication

Open communication is vital for a harmonious family life. Discussing expectations, challenges, and successes with both family members and colleagues fosters understanding and support from all fronts.

9. Set Realistic Goals

While ambition is commendable, setting realistic goals is key. Recognize the limitations of time and energy, and establish achievable milestones both in your career and personal life.

10. Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small

Acknowledge and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Working moms often wear multiple hats, and taking a moment to recognize accomplishments contributes to a positive mindset and reinforces the value of their efforts.

In the intricate dance of motherhood and career, working moms are resilient, resourceful, and remarkable. By embracing these tips and recognizing the unique balance they bring to the table, working mothers can navigate this challenging yet fulfilling journey with grace, confidence, and success.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle often takes a back seat, especially for busy women juggling multiple roles. However, prioritizing well-being is paramount for sustained energy and vitality. Here are seven practical and achievable healthy living habits tailored to fit the hectic schedules of today’s dynamic women.

1. Efficient Fitness Routines

With time being a precious commodity, efficient fitness routines become key. Incorporate short, high-intensity workouts or interval training that can be seamlessly integrated into a busy day. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days, whether it’s a brisk walk, a quick home workout, or a dance session.

2. Nutrient-Rich Recipes

Fuel your body with nutrient-rich meals by planning and preparing simple, yet nourishing recipes. Opt for balanced meals that include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Batch cooking on weekends can save time during the week and ensure you have wholesome options readily available.

3. Hydration is Non-Negotiable

In the midst of hectic schedules, staying hydrated often takes a back seat. However, adequate water intake is crucial for overall well-being. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and set reminders to ensure you’re consistently meeting your hydration goals.

4. Mindful Eating Practices

Practice mindful eating to cultivate a healthier relationship with food. Take the time to savor each bite, listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, and avoid distractions like screens during meals. This approach not only contributes to better digestion but also encourages healthier food choices.

5. Prioritize Stress Management

Stress is an inevitable part of a busy life, but effective stress management is key. Incorporate stress-relief practices such as deep breathing exercises, short meditation sessions, or even a brisk walk during breaks. Prioritizing mental health contributes significantly to overall well-being.

6. Quality Sleep Matters

In the midst of packed schedules, sleep is often sacrificed. However, quality sleep is foundational for physical and mental health. Establish a consistent sleep routine, create a conducive sleep environment, and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to support optimal well-being.

7. Schedule ‘Me Time’

Amidst the demands of work and family, scheduling ‘me time’ is crucial. Dedicate moments in your week to activities that bring joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, enjoying a hobby, or simply unwinding with a warm bath. Prioritizing self-care contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

In conclusion, weaving these healthy living habits into the fabric of a busy life can lead to a more energized, focused, and resilient you. Embrace these habits gradually, tailoring them to your unique schedule and preferences, and witness the positive impact on your overall well-being. Remember, a healthier you is better equipped to conquer the demands of a busy life with grace and vitality.

Amidst the dynamic landscape of personal finance, the commencement of a new year presents an opportune time to reassess and refine your financial objectives. Stepping into 2024, let’s delve into essential tactics for attaining financial well-being, and laying the groundwork for a stable and flourishing future. Here are 10 pathways to achieving financial prosperity in 2024.

1. Set Clear Financial Goals

Begin by defining your financial objectives for the year. Whether it’s saving for a home, investing in education, or building an emergency fund, setting clear and achievable goals provides a roadmap for your financial journey.

2. Create a Realistic Budget

Crafting a detailed budget is fundamental to financial success. Evaluate your income, track your expenses, and identify areas where you can save or cut back. A well-planned budget serves as a powerful tool to manage your money efficiently.

3. Diversify Your Investments

Explore diverse investment opportunities to maximize returns and minimize risks. Consider a mix of stocks, bonds, and real estate, aligning your investment portfolio with your risk tolerance and long-term financial objectives.

4. Leverage Technology for Financial Management

Embrace financial technology tools and apps that can streamline budgeting, expense tracking, and investment management. These tools provide real-time insights into your financial health and empower you to make informed decisions.

5. Prioritize Debt Repayment

Tackle high-interest debts strategically. Prioritize repayment of loans and credit card balances to reduce interest payments and free up resources for savings and investments.

6. Enhance Financial Literacy

Stay informed about financial trends, investment strategies, and economic indicators. Continuous learning empowers you to make informed financial decisions and adapt to evolving market conditions.

7. Emergency Fund Building

Aim to build a robust emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. Having a financial safety net provides peace of mind and prevents the need to dip into long-term investments during unforeseen circumstances.

8. Explore Additional Income Streams

Diversify your income streams by exploring side hustles, freelance opportunities, or passive income sources. Supplementing your primary income enhances financial stability and accelerates wealth-building.

9. Review and Adjust

Regularly review your financial plan and make adjustments as needed. Life is dynamic, and so should be your financial strategy. Be flexible and ready to adapt to changes in your personal or economic circumstances.

10. Seek Professional Advice

Consider consulting with financial advisors or experts to receive personalized guidance based on your unique financial situation. Professional advice can provide valuable insights and strategies tailored to your goals.

Conclusion: A Prosperous Financial Future Awaits

As we step into 2024, implementing these financial strategies can pave the way for a year of financial prosperity. With careful planning, disciplined execution, and a commitment to financial well-being, you can unlock new opportunities and build a foundation for lasting success. Cheers to a financially thriving year ahead!

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery in a world that often demands perfection and relentless achievement, the transformative path of embracing self-love and building confidence becomes an empowering narrative for women seeking resilience and personal fulfillment. In this blog post, we delve into the art of self-love and confidence-building—essential components for navigating life’s challenges and thriving as a modern woman. How to Ignite the Power of Self-Love: Building Confidence and Resilience offers actionable insights that will guide you through this empowering journey, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and unlocking the true potential within.

Embracing the Journey

The journey to self-love is a personal and transformative one. Begin by acknowledging that imperfections are part of what makes you uniquely beautiful. Share personal stories and experiences that resonate with the struggles and triumphs of embracing oneself authentically.

Building Confidence Brick by Brick

Confidence is not an inherent trait; it’s a skill that can be developed over time. Provide actionable tips and strategies for building confidence, whether through setting and achieving small goals, celebrating accomplishments, or practicing positive affirmations. Share stories of women who have transformed self-doubt into unshakable confidence.

Nurturing Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity. Discuss the importance of resilience in personal growth and provide practical advice on cultivating this trait. Highlight stories of women who have faced adversity head-on, showcasing their resilience and the valuable lessons gained from overcoming obstacles.

Self-Love Rituals and Practices

Explore various self-love rituals and practices that contribute to overall well-being. From mindfulness exercises and self-care routines to embracing self-compassion, offer actionable insights that readers can incorporate into their daily lives. Share personal anecdotes or success stories illustrating the positive impact of these practices.

Voices of Empowerment

Feature interviews or quotes from inspiring women who have embraced self-love, built confidence, and demonstrated resilience. Their voices can serve as a source of motivation and encouragement for readers navigating similar journeys. Include diverse perspectives to resonate with a broad audience.

Conclusion:

Embracing self-love, building confidence, and cultivating resilience are powerful tools that every woman can wield on her journey to personal fulfillment. By sharing stories, insights, and actionable tips, we hope to inspire and empower our readers to embark on their own transformative journeys, realizing the strength and beauty that lie within.

In a world where self-love is revolutionary, let’s celebrate the unique journey each woman takes toward embracing her authenticity, building unshakeable confidence, and cultivating resilience in the face of life’s ebbs and flows.

Building wealth and getting clarity around your finances doesn’t have to be daunting or stressful. In fact, with the right practices instilled, it can be liberating.

If you want to be one of them, then read on to educate yourself about debt, value-based spending, the best saving habits, financial freedom, and the key components that lead to financial success. It won’t be easy to implement these new habits, but you certainly won’t regret it.

ONE- Pay Off Your Debts.

Not all debts are bad. Debt with a plan can actually be really good for acquiring assets. These are ‘good debts’ as they are spent on investments and assets that are valuable and can be liquidated in the long run.
‘Bad debts’ are those debts you use on consumption.

Read Also: I’m Passionate About Helping Women Gain Financial Freedom – Vanessa Ideh Shares Her Story

When you have a million naira personal income and you have a debt of 500 thousand naira that is due or will be due, it is advisable you pay off your debts first before you calculate how much you really own.

If you have more than one debt, pay off the one with the highest interest rates or the one with the highest balance first.

TWO – Determine Your Priorities.

When you prioritize debt, think about high interest versus low interest. You can build emergency funds simultaneously while paying off your debts because if you do not have an emergency fund, you may slip back into that debt if real emergency happens.

Being in debt is stressful so you will feel more compelled to rid yourself of that burden. High-interest debt steals from your wealth; values-based spending helps you get in alignment with building wealth, and an emergency fund protects your wealth so that you don’t slide back into high-interest debt.

THREE- Practice Value-Based Spending.

The first step is awareness – know what you’re spending.
Look back at the last three to six months of your spending and analyze how much you’re spending on your lifestyle.

It is easy to often assume that you are just paying for rent and food but our brains want to rationalize that we’re on our best behavior, so it doesn’t allow us to think about all of the subscription boxes.

Value-based spending is a lot easier than budgeting. Setting a budget can feel restrictive, like being on a diet.

You spend within your budget for a week and then you see that dress on Instagram and you click.

But if you have values, you will see that that instant gratification won’t be gratifying for long because it’s not aligned with our values. Once you determine three values that really matter to you, you’ll find that they can function as a filter. An example would be equity, family, and leverage (when you’re willing to spend money on things that help make life easier). Buying the shoes doesn’t align with any of those pillars, so it needs to be a preplanned choice.

FOUR – Open a High-Yield Savings Account.

Saving is the inverse of spending. Parkinson’s law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. Basically, any one thing can shrink or contract to the size of its container. In relation to money in a bank account, the reason you end up spending what you should be saving is that it’s right there, visible, in your checking account.
Open a high-yield savings account and automate transfers on a monthly basis. That recurring act will give you accessibility to only what you should be spending.

Consider investments as well, but make your research so you are investing in what you are knowledgeable about.

FIVE – Understand the Definition of Financial Freedom.

Financial freedom is an equation: enough passive income to outpace your expenses. When you have financial freedom in your life, work becomes an option instead of an obligation.
Financial freedom allows you to enjoy your wealth because time is no longer a finite resource.
When you go to work, even as an entrepreneur, you are trading time for money. But, if you can buy assets to create additional income, then you are trading money for assets that bring you more money.

If you get on this train and educate yourself, you will find that you don’t always have to rely on yourself and your body to make money. It takes a lot of time, effort, and sacrifice to get up every morning and go to work.

SIX – Instill the Key Components That Lead to Financial Independence

Six qualities that every wealthy woman should try to encompass:

  1. Planning: Determine your financial goals, write them down, and find an accountability partner. You can’t get what you want if you don’t plan for it. When it comes to money, you have to be goal-oriented.
  2. Frugality or Intentionality: Commit to saving more, spending less, and sticking to a plan. This formula leads to an ability to have a passive income because if you spend all of your money then there will be nothing left to invest it.
  3. Confidence: In order to gain financial confidence in managing your money and investing, you need financial education. We didn’t learn this in school. You have to go and find it, otherwise, you will stay in a state of stress. Inaction is terrible for your finances.
  4. Responsibility: Accept your role in financial outcomes and take action to make financial changes in your life.
  5. Focus: See your process through to completion one step at a time. Accountability is crucial.
  6. Social indifference: Don’t succumb to buying the latest thing as a means of feeling good. If you practice this, it will change your life. Women are the targets of consumerism. But, if you appreciate how you look and how you are inherent, you will save yourself a lot of time, money, and energy.

Recommended:

4 Bad Money Habits That Will Keep You Broke Forever

She Wanted To Be A Lawyer But Ended Up A Carpenter, The Story Of Comfort Adzigbli

I started Omaness Skinfood To​ Empower And​ Enrich The Lives Of Women- Ifeoma Adibe-Chukwuka

 

 

Navigating the dynamic landscape of personal and professional growth, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp emerges as a powerful force for empowerment. The reverberations of enlightening sessions, expert guidance, and transformative conversations endure, and we’re thrilled to announce that the long-awaited BootCamp recording is now available!

What to Expect:

Relive the Insights: The recording encapsulates the essence of the empowering BootCamp, featuring expert insights from industry leaders; Sola Adesakin, Esther Ijewere, Mayowa Adegoke, Adeola Osideko and Funmi Ajala  on building a strong online presence, crafting a personal brand for leadership, shaping narratives, leveraging financial literacy, mastering public speaking, content creation, brand sustainability, and intentional visibility.

Diverse Perspectives: Join the Fireside Chats where Chinaza Favour, Wendy Nwajiufor, Azeezat Adejare, and Rinret Gofwan discuss content creation, building sustainable brands, and intentional visibility. Gain diverse perspectives to enhance your personal and professional journey.

Why Grab Your Copy:

  1. On-Demand Learning: Access the invaluable sessions at your convenience. Whether you missed a masterclass or want to revisit a favorite, the recording puts the knowledge in your hands.
  2. Practical Strategies: Each session is packed with actionable strategies that can immediately elevate your media visibility and professional impact.
  3. Diverse Insights: Benefit from a diverse range of topics and speakers, ensuring a holistic approach to your personal and professional development.
  4. Invest in Yourself: Your personal and professional growth is an investment. The Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording is a valuable resource that continues to provide returns on your commitment to self-improvement.

How to Access

Visit our Selar page and unlock a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom from industry experts. Your journey to enhanced media visibility and success starts with a click!

Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself. Grab your copy of the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording today and step into a future of limitless possibilities!

For further enquiries, reach out via info@womenofrubies.com

Grab our free PR guide E-book here for enhanced visibility!

Free PR Guidebook

In just four days, the entrepreneurial community of Canada will come together for a night of recognition, celebration, and inspiration at the prestigious Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards and End of Year Gala. This extraordinary event, founded by the visionary Maryam Muritala, promises an evening filled with glitz, glamour, and a collective celebration of entrepreneurial excellence.

Event Details:

  • Date: December 16th, 2023
  • Time: 6.30 PM EST
  • Location: Shahrayar Banquet Hall, 1150 Crestlawn Dr, Mississauga, ON L4W 1A6

The Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards aim to spotlight and honor the outstanding achievements of entrepreneurs who have demonstrated innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence in their respective fields. It is a platform that recognizes the tireless efforts and contributions of individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping the business landscape in Canada.

Maryam Muritala, the driving force behind this initiative, believes in the power of acknowledging and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels economic growth and community development. The awards ceremony will serve as a testament to the remarkable journey of these entrepreneurs, highlighting their impact and paving the way for future successes.

Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards

Get Ready to Celebrate: Entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and esteemed guests are invited to join this unparalleled celebration of success. The gala promises an enchanting evening featuring inspiring speeches, networking opportunities, and the presentation of prestigious awards recognizing excellence in various categories.

Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this momentous occasion. Secure your spot now and be prepared to witness the brilliance of Canada’s entrepreneurial community.

For media inquiries, sponsorships, or to RSVP, please email:  info@canadavendors.ca and visit canadavendors.ca

Grab your ticket here

 

Mignon Francois, a single mom of 7 turned her last $5 into a million-dollar cupcake business.

Mignon Francois struggled financially to support her family between 2005-2007 after a job offer for her former husband fell through. A neighbor knew her plight and penchant for baking and offered her an opportunity to turn her situation around. She put in a request for 600 cupcakes at $1 each.

The Plot-Twist For Mignon Francois

With just $5 to her name, Francois wasn’t sure how she would make it work, but she used her last bit of coin to purchase the ingredients, baking 60 cupcakes, and gaining a $60 profit that same day to buy the rest of what she needed. She launched The Cupcake Collection, selling custom cakes and cupcakes and growing her small business which now generates more than $1 million annually. 

Mignon Francois

Mignon Francois is proud of herself, her journey was not without its share of challenges. As a Black woman, one of the biggest obstacles Francois faced was funding. Instead of relying on banks and facing loan denials, overdraft fees, or credit card debt, Francois relied on an old envelope system trick. 

“I think a lot of times in my community, we often have been used to rejection from banks. Having my money in a bank account at that time, if I had messed up even a dollar, it would have caused me to get a bank overdraft, which would’ve cost me $30, and then that’s just a vicious cycle of snowballing in a negative way,” she said.

 Staying In Business

The entrepreneur used the system to designate her money via envelopes, categorizing her profit into an emergency fund, set a budget, and a debt snowball method to help reel her finances in. Today, the New Orleans native uses her story to help others. 

As a now successful entrepreneur, Francois has begun paying it forward, funding scholarships at Tennessee State University, and partnering with community organizers to support education and food insecurity efforts.

She also sits on the Pathways Women’s Business Center and Nashville Entrepreneur Center board and works with grassroots organization Corner to Corner to help other aspiring business owners. 

To learn more about Francois and the work she’s doing, visit The Cupcake Collection.

Congratulations Mignon!

 

In a perfect world, we wouldn’t need to trick ourselves into saving money, because we’re all grown-ups who have self-control, right?

Let’s be honest, whether its splurging or the unfortunate mishaps that require immediate funds, we could find areas where we can cut our costs and unnecessary spending.

Acknowledging that our self-control might need some work isn’t a bad thing. Try implementing some of these tips and tricks to help you become a super fine finance ninja!

Coin Jar

It may seem old fashion, but that change after you break a dollar can add up quickly.  That few extra $100 per year might not sound like much, but it’s far better things to be done with extra coins than losing them between the cushions!

Make Money Shopping

Numerous websites offer opportunities to earn cash back when shopping, whether online or at brick-and-mortar stores. One of the options I particularly like is an app that provides cash back for purchases at various participating stores. When you use your linked debit or credit card, you receive cash back. The participating stores vary widely, making it a versatile choice.

New Habits

Transform your routine. Instead of ordering lunch every day at work, pack a lunch on some days. Consider the unnecessary subscriptions you have monthly, and divert those payments into your savings account. What habits do you have that you can work on quitting to help save those extra bucks at the end of the month?

Check Your Home

You’d be surprised at how much you can save monthly by just cutting back on your energy bill. Caulk holes and cracks that let warm air out in the winter and cool air in the summer. Ask your local gas and electric providers for a free or low-cost home energy audit. This can lead to tremendous long-term savings. Learn the correct settings for your thermostat to ensure you keep your usage at bay when you away from home during the day.

Related:

This 24-Year-Old Makes $750k Teaching Women How To Make Money On Instagram