Monday

"I can appreciate stillness without filling it."

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Learning for fun as an adult

• Why your energy bill is so high

• Sticking to a budget? Try these hacks

• The rise of “new-collar” jobs

How to Learn for Fun Again as an Adult

There’s something nostalgic about loving to learn just because you want to. No grades. No deadlines. Just curiosity. But once school ends, structure disappears, and so does momentum. That’s where a personal curriculum comes in.

Start with a “brain dump.” Write down everything that fascinates you: books you return to, questions you keep Googling, hobbies you’ve bookmarked. Then look for themes. Instead of choosing for life, choose for this season. Lower the stakes.

Once you pick a theme, build a light syllabus. Gather a few books, podcasts, courses, or local events. Keep everything in one place so you can dip in when you have 20 minutes or an entire afternoon. Mix quick wins with deeper dives.

Finally, decide why you’re learning this. Do you want to host a dinner party, try a new hobby, understand a topic more deeply, or just feel mentally stretched? When you know the “why,” it’s easier to stick with the “how.”

Why Your Energy Bill Might Be Higher Than It Should Be

Opening a utility bill can feel unpredictable. But beyond big lifestyle changes, small household habits may be quietly increasing your costs.

First, check your thermostat. If it’s placed near a draft or heat source, it may misread the temperature and force your HVAC system to run longer. A programmable thermostat can help systems operate only when needed.

Older refrigerators—especially second units in garages—can also use far more electricity than newer Energy Star models. If yours is over 15 years old, compare annual energy costs to see if an upgrade makes financial sense.

Another common culprit is “phantom” energy. Devices with LED screens, adapters, or remotes often draw power even when turned off. Smart power strips or unplugging idle electronics can help.

Finally, don’t overlook maintenance. Dirty HVAC filters can increase energy use by 10% to 20%, and water heaters set above 120°F use more energy around the clock. Small adjustments can add up to noticeable savings.

Costco Members: This New Policy Is a Game Changer

Do you shop at Costco? Then you know the thrill of saving money. But you might be missing other smart ways to stretch your dollars. Check out our list of genius money hacks—almost as good as that $1.50 hot dog!

See all of the hacks here.

Thank you to FinanceBuzz for sponsoring Note To Self. 

What are New-Collar Jobs?

For years, a four-year degree was seen as the main path to stability and success. But the workforce is shifting. So-called “new-collar” jobs focus on skills, experience, and certifications rather than traditional academic credentials. Many of these roles exist in tech, healthcare, marketing, and IT, and often offer competitive pay and remote flexibility.

Employers are increasingly prioritizing practical ability over diplomas. As automation and AI reshape entry-level roles, new positions are emerging that value digital fluency, problem-solving, and continuous learning. Certifications, apprenticeships, and hands-on portfolios can carry as much weight as a degree.

Examples range from project management and cybersecurity support to digital marketing and UX research assistance. Some professionals use these roles to pivot industries without starting from scratch, building on existing soft skills and targeted training.

There are trade-offs. Career paths may feel less defined, and some companies still require degrees for senior roles. But for those seeking flexibility, lower education costs, or a career reset, new-collar work offers another route forward, one built on skills rather than titles.

Wellness Round-Up

A Note From Us

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: Energy levels naturally begin to rise by 10-20% as daylight increases. Light exposure influences mood and alertness.

• 🌅 Sunset Of The Day: Sunsets are more than beautiful—they’re actually good for your mood. Got a favorite one? Reply to this email with your best sunset or sunrise photo for a chance to be featured!

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Let this season be about small resets. A little more light, a little more movement, a little more care can go a long way.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!