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Saturday 7/19: Sponsored by Swan Hellenic Cruises FZCO - saying no to trips, errands, grocery hack

Tuesday

"I can hold space for rest and ambition."

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

True or False?

Self-care should look the same every day.

Scroll for the answer!

Tips to Speed Up Your Errands

Running errands can take up more time than we’d like, but with a few simple tricks, you can breeze through them and reclaim your day. One game-changer is to group your errands. For example, if you're already going to the bank, why not swing by the grocery store or pick up dry cleaning while you're out? It saves time and energy.

Another key tip is to choose quieter times for your errands. Avoid weekends, when everything tends to get crowded, and aim for weekdays, especially during lunch hours. Plus, creating an “errand center” at home can help you stay organized—gather everything you need to drop off or mail in one spot so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

Lastly, using apps or websites to handle things like banking, shopping, and ordering supplies can save hours of in-person errands. With these tips, you can streamline your errands, making them quicker and less stressful, leaving you with more time for what really matters.

Explore Destinations Like Never Before

Swan Hellenic integrates cultural storytelling by combining expert-led lectures, briefings and informal discussions with renowned academics and scientists onboard, offering guests deep insights into the history, culture, and environment of each destination. Our itineraries are carefully crafted to immerse travellers in remote and culturally rich locations, supported by partnerships with scientific and cultural organizations, enabling authentic engagement and understanding beyond typical tourism.

Thank you to Swan Hellenic for sponsoring Note To Self. 

The 5-4-3-2-1 Grocery Method

The 5-4-3-2-1 grocery method is a simple strategy to streamline shopping trips and help create well-rounded meals. By focusing on five vegetables, four fruits, three proteins, two sauces or spreads, and one grain, this method provides structure without being overwhelming. Add a fun treat, and the list is complete.

This method helps take the guesswork out of meal planning. With only a few categories to fill, shopping becomes more efficient, and meal ideas naturally come together. It’s an easy way to stay on track and avoid overbuying or wasting food.

The 5-4-3-2-1 approach encourages balanced meals and mindful purchases. While it may require buying additional staples, it’s flexible enough to work for any diet or lifestyle. By reducing unnecessary items and focusing on what’s essential, it’s an effective way to shop smarter and save time.

How to Turn Down a Trip Without Guilt

It’s tough when your friends are planning a luxurious getaway and you’re just not able to swing the cost. But there’s no need to feel guilty about prioritizing your budget. Financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin recommends being honest and clear with your friends about why you can’t join, without making it feel awkward. You can say something like, “I’d love to come, but this trip isn’t in my budget this year. I’ll save up for next time!”

If you’re worried about the cost, suggest more affordable alternatives like a simple coffee meet-up or a local day trip. It’s important to remember that a good friend will understand and won’t pressure you. Also, consider offering to join part of the trip—like the dinner or a day of yoga—if that works within your budget.

Lastly, try setting aside a small amount each month for future trips so that you’re financially prepared next time. Ultimately, sticking to your financial boundaries is an act of self-care that benefits both your wallet and your peace of mind.

The Pause

Before you go, take a small pause from your day with this tip brought to you by The Note To Self editors.

30 Second Reset: Stare at something still—a plant, a cup, the wall. Let it be your whole focus, just for half a minute.

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

  • ✅ True or False: False. Your needs shift daily—what feels nourishing one day may feel draining the next.

  • 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

  • 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Errands may be routine, but they still take energy. Give yourself credit for what you’ve crossed off—even the small stuff.

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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]!