Saving for the Future

Everyday I remind myself that I need to save more money. I love to shop but this year, I have made it a personal goal to spend less, and save more. I came up with an “aggressive savings plan” that should put everyone on track to being financially comfortable. First off, saving for retirement is a top priority. I’ve been working since I was in grade school- Yes it was a family owned business, but the business was a product of child labor! So I don’t know about yall, but I'm trying to retire by 50.

Saving for the Future- Aggressive Savings Plan- 50, 30, 20

Having a 401k is very important because it is an account that you will rely on when the opportunity to retire comes along. I suggest only investing in your job’s 401k if they offer to match- The previous company I worked for matched all monies contributed, 6%. That’s a big deal- Meaning for every $500 contributed, they add $30. Every bit counts! In addition to your employer 401K, I suggest every human being earning a paycheck invest into a Roth IRA. There are many advantages to having a Roth IRA, the most notable being the fact that you pay no taxes on the funds in the account. It’s like a gift to you from Uncle Sam- Take advantage! According to Kiplinger.com “If a 25-year-old contributes $5,000 each year until she retires and makes an average annual return of 8% on her investment, she'll have $1.4 million saved by the time she retires at age 65. And the money is all hers — she won't have to give the IRS a cent of it if she waits until retirement to withdraw the earnings.” If that isn’t enough to have you racing to your nearest bank as soon as you get done reading this post, there’s some screws missing! This 3easiest way to ensure you are contributing to your IRA is to set up your direct deposit from your employer to contribute a percentage or set amount directly into the account. Since the max contribution is $5500 a year, Starting in January, if you get paid bi-weekly, that's $230 every pay period.
There’s lots to know about Roth IRA’s – How to get one started, what to invest in (stocks, CD's, real estate & more,) accessing your money early (you can access your contributions out with no penalty, but touching earnings carries a hefty drawback,) and many other aspects. Check out this awesome blog for tons of info on everything to do with Saving $$... Specifically their article on Roth IRA's! Our Freaking Budget- Why to start a Roth IRA

Next, when it comes to using the money you earn from your job, It is best to have 3 different bank accounts, in addition to your IRA. You have to have a budget first to know what works for you. Taylor it to what your income allows you to do.

The funds remaining after your automatic direct deposit to your Roth account should be split up into 3 accounts.

50% Bills
30% Savings
20% Everything Else

Example: Your net direct deposit (after the auto deposit into your Roth account,) is $1000. $500 will go to bills, $300 will go to savings, and $200 will be fun money, and everything else. For me that's, entertainment, dining out, gas, dry cleaning, pet supplies, unnecessary crap I feel like I need, etc.

Sticking to this plan allows me to simplify my spending and saving. When I run out of "fun money." I'm broke. Yes, sometimes it is necessary to I always dip into my savings, but this bad habit is improving, and I'm getting to the point where I can say no to going out because I am thinking more about my future, than fun nights on the town.

Moving Away from Home - Starting a New Life in a New State

Have you ever thought about moving away, and starting a new life in another state? Here are my thoughts on the benefits of doing so, and if you are hesitant about it- why you should absolutely go for it! Coming from Detroit, a city where "keeping up with the Jones" is a heavy influence on everyone, I wanted to be able to discover life outside of what I was accustomed to and doing what other people thought was right, and the only way to do so was to get away!

If you still live in the town you were born, I am sure your lifestyle may be heavily influenced by others. It is hard to admit, and we all are quick to proclaim, "I am my own person," But face it, there are pressures from society to live your life a certain way. Your authentic self is progressively being smothered by outside influences. These pressures influence everything from the way you look and dress, career paths, values & beliefs, to who you are supposed to love and where you see your life in 50 years. Moving to another city can help you escape these pressures (society, parents, friends, social media,) so you can fully explore what life has to offer.

When I moved from Detroit to San Antonio, I had NO IDEA what I wanted to be when I grow up, and I don't just mean career wise. I didn't know who, or what type of person I wanted to marry, my personal style, what type of friends to truly value, the strength of my faith, what my passion was, my values, pretty much who I was as an individual. I have discovered all of these things in the 4 years I have been away from home, and It has opened my eyes to realize what life is all about.

Friends:

Are you only friends with people you grew up with? If so, you are inadvertently limiting yourself from meeting new friends who will add life long value to your being. Yes- some of my best friends are those I've known since grade school, But new friends allow you to discover even more interests and activities that your current friends may not be involved in. When you add in the fact that these new friends will be from different backgrounds and demographics, this will allow more authentic, lasting friendships to grow. These friendships are built based on your character, not what they know about your past which means they will be less likely to judge you unlike some friends unknowingly do.  

Dating/ Love (This applies only to those single folk.):

When you explore the dating scene in a different state, you are bound to step out of your comfort zone. We are all close minded when it comes to personal preferences in dating. For me, I never imagined myself dating outside of my race. Not that I was opposed to it, it's just that I didn't see myself dating someone that wasn't my "type." When I moved, it happened. I believe everyone should experience this in life, and you will definitely expand the narrow mind that thinks you are only supposed to date someone exactly like you. It allows a person to become more diverse, learn new ways of thinking, incorporate different aspects of culture, race and religion practices into your life, and so many more positive characteristics. Besides going outside of our "type," being away from the people you would traditionally date in your hometown will help with the realization of who is really meant for you. 

Following your Passion:

 There are particular places around the world where people with certain passions and life desires navigate towards. If you have a particular passion, it is very likely that there is a place more tailored to helping you pursue that passion. Never let go of your dreams because they seem unattainable in your current location. For example, New York is the best spot for Marketing careers according to this Forbes Article, according to this article, the West Coast is the best for Nursing Jobs, We all know NY and LA are the fashion and entertainment "capitals," and Chicago is becoming the "New New York," combining fashion, entertainment, and business. Whatever your are passionate about doing, put yourself in that market!  

Opportunity:

 I love my hometown, and it has made me the person I am today. Michigan is a VERY diverse place to live and has grounded me in many ways, but it is also home to the city known as a popular symbol of urban decay. I was lucky to actually grow up in the suburbs, and attend a renowned school district, but Detroit is the Heart of Michigan, and I represent it to the fullest, before admitting to actually be raised in the suburbs. But everyone who lives there, and even those that hear stories but have never even visited, knows there are many more opportunities afforded to individuals NOT living in places with bad reputations. I can't speak for other cities, but I know these types of places exist in every state in the USA, (except Texas, LOL!) With that being said, go where opportunity is more available- The economy, job market, home market, safety, education, all play a part in the opportunities available to better your life.

 

 How to know its time to go

• You have never experienced other cultures outside of your hometown- There is SO MUCH to discover outside of the current state you live in. To this day I am still discovering new things to do in my new city, and new things about myself. I never knew that I like country music, I can eat Mexican food everyday, and I like non-denominational worship better than religous churches- just to name a few. Also the people- People here are a lot nicer, not always in a rush, and everyone loves to hug!

• Nothing is holding you there! You are not getting any younger and the older you get the more responsibility you have. Right now if you are single, an empty-nester, work at a job you dislike, unsure where you see yourself in the next 10 years, get jealous when you see family or friends enjoying life in another state, you complain about your current residence and or you are just unhappy, NEWSFLASH: it’s time to move! Even if you have a family, if you feel any of the later, if you have the means to do so, go bye-bye!

• Nothing excites you anymore- Sick of seeing the same ol' people, at the same ol' places, engaging in the same ol' activities to the point to were your idea of a good weekend is staying home and catching up on all the Netflix Series? Then yea, it is definitely time for a change of scenery! You are only going to continue to be bored with life and become the "Debbie Downer" of the group. 

Finding the real you is an enlightening experience. You become more self-sufficient and discover things about yourself that you would have never imagined, when you move to a new state. It's a hard feeling to put into words, but when you are not happy with where you are, it's hard to ignore. This feeling of completeness comes only when you step outside of your comfort zone and get away from the "same ol', same ol'"

 "I need a vacation-" I hear that all the time- Mostly from people who are unhappy with their surroundings. Don't just make it a "vacation," Make it a life change! My idea of a vacation now that I've moved, is being off of work, and spending time with my family- Not just to escape the weather! 

 

 

Makeup Brush Holder

In the new year, I am focused on keeping my surroundings organized at all times. It's pretty weird that I'm not a super organized  person because my mom has always been OCD when it comes to clutter, organizing and cleaning. She's quick to throw things away or move something because its not in the right spot for her liking.. I would explain the old Joia as living in an organized mess, lol. Now I have a spot for everything.

Here is an inexpensive way to organize your makeup brushes, eye and lip liners, lips glosses etc. These are my go- to items that I like to have quick and easy access to. The other 3/4 of my collection is stored other ways (I will do a full vanity tour soon.)  Very stylish and only $4 for the materials, found at my fave- Dollar Tree.

2- glass vase/ candle holders
2- Bag of rocks, (or you can use marbles)

That's it :-)

10 Ways to be Happier

I hope your first week of 2014 has been fantastic. Mine has been great due to my new thought process of consciously focusing on being happier.  Reaching Felicity is a lot easier if you are happy. Yes, happiness is perceived differently by all people, but I believe these 10 suggestions will put everyone well on their way to destination: Felicity

1.  THINK POSITIVE -Thinking positive will change your whole outlook on life. Always remember, if you believe it, you will achieve it! If you need some motivation on staying positive, please join the Positive Vibes Book Club, HERE. 
2.  Exercise regularly-  Exercising is a stress reliever, it releases endorphins which are proven to make you feel happier, and look better. Studies also show that people who exercise live longer, which gives you more time to reach felicity :-) 
3. Eat fruits and vegetables every day- Its recommended that you eat some with every meal, but for most people this is not really ideal. Try to eat at least 1 serving of each a day. These two power foods help prevent all sorts of diseases and also, help you feel and look better.
4. Stop Comparing Your Self to Others- No one else can do a better job of being you, than you. A great way to stop this detrimental thought process is to compare yourself, to the past you. We have all grown to be better people over time, in more ways than one. So the only comparisons that should be made are within your own self. What have you accomplished this year, compared to last? A big factor in causing some comparisons is social media. Of course it looks like some people are living fabulous lives, but they only  show the good, not the bad and the ugly.  Continue to become a better person, but do not compare yourself to others. Always remember if they can do it, so can you!
5.  Keep Good Company- There is nothing worse than a party pooper, Debbie-Downer, or a Negative Nancy. Surround yourself with people who radiate more positive vibes than negative. Even if you find yourself to be a Pissy-Patty, make it a point to hang out with those people that "always seem so happy."
6.  Leave Work, at Work - Even for people who adore their job, work can still be stressful. Me personally, I love what I do, I just dislike "working." But, I make sure to always leave the emotions of work at work. I don't check my email, or replay situations from my day over in my head. When I walk out of the door, work has ended and my mind is cleared of anything having to do with it.
7. Stop Over-Indulging- Too much of anything, can turn into a bad thing. There is a saying which I constantly argue with myself about in my head; "A girl can never have too many shoes, (clothes, handbags, accessories etc.)" While in the perfect world this is possibly true, in the real world there is a limit. I believe there are only 2 things one can truly never have too much of - love and faith.
8. Do more good deeds- One rotten apple can definitely spoil the bunch, but you will never hear a story of the good apples making other apples bad! (lol was that a good example?) But you feel me right? Being an avid social media peruser, I see tons of stories all day about the bad things going on in the world, and it makes me so sad. But any act of  generosity, courage, or compassion makes me so happy and sometimes even causes tears of joy. It definitely inspires me to want to do the same. Be the example for others and go out and share good deeds.
9. Stop Selling Yourself Short- In all aspects of life, we limit ourselves. Whether it be in relationships, capabilities, or giving yourself credit. If you feel you deserve better in a relationship, YOU DO. If you tell yourself there is no way you can finish a project in a specific time period, YOU CAN'T, but if you tell yourself you can, YOU WILL. Never say you're incapable of doing something because you will believe that. Celebrate your accomplishments. You have been working hard, and saving money, and see a pair of shoes you want- BUY THEM (as long as you aren't spending your last.)The greatest disservice we do to ourselves is failing to appreciate what we offer the world, to appreciate the gifts and talents we are each blessed with, the influences we make in people lives, and all the good things we deserve. Always reward yourself. Never settle, and always go for the gusto.
10.  Get a Good Night's Sleep- A good night's sleep to me is at least 8 hours. I wake up refreshed and ready to conquer almost anything. A good nights sleep is proven to help you learn more effectively, manage stress better, and just been in an all around better mood. I know when I go to sleep late, I always wake up grumpy. Make an effort to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night.

Make it a point to adopt these new ways to be happier, and I promise you will see a change.

Problem solving. How do you deal??

Problem solving is an integral part of ensuring a fulfilling life, and reaching felicity. Everyone deals with problems differently, and there is no right or wrong way to do so. What strategy do you use to deal with/ solve your problems?

4 strategies to deal with life's problems

 Absolve- This is the way I deal with problems. When I am faced with an issue in life, most times I just "go with the flow." Should there be a road bump, I just keep it moving. Eventually, any issue in life I see as a "problem" will solve itself over time, I will forget about it, or I will just accept it. I declare myself free of problems immediately after they arise. To be able to do so, you must always remain positive. Look at problems as opportunities. It's so easy to mask the problem, but when it comes to fixing it, it's a process that I believe is controlled only by The Lord. In the meantime, build a bridge and get over it!

Resolve- Making a strategic plan to get over your problem. Most times when a resolution is reached, its more like a deal. This approach to problem solving is a result of experience…Figuring out a way to fix the problem, which comes with trial and error. While this may sound like the best way, it is not getting to the root of the problem, which means eventually it will resurface. I find when using this method of problem solving, one will  generally face there problems again later.

Dissolve- I look at this strategy as dissecting the problem, then "putting it back together" in a way that makes it seem acceptable. If a large amount of your day involves responding to uncomfortable situations, this is probably the method you use. It takes a lot of pausing, reflecting, and asking yourself what you can do about it. In the end an explanation is given, excusing the reason the problem occurred.

Solve- Problem solving is a big task for me- math prblems, relationship problems, car problems.. All of them. Lol. Yes, some problems have an easy solution, others may be tough ones. But when it comes to life problems, there isn't always a definitive answer. When a problem is solved, you know the exact answer as to what caused the problem, the steps to get the solution, and a definitive answer of what the outcome will be.  As well as ways to prevent it from happening again. This is possible in some situations, but not all. 

Every human faces problems. Don’t get so hung up on trying to figure things out or solve them right away. Everything happens for a reason and instead of looking at something as a problem. Look at it as an opportunity and or a lesson. Whichever method you use, as long as it doesn't cause lasting stress, it works. If you find yourself dwelling on issues more than a couple days, try an alternative method.

“Happiness is not the absence of problems, it's the ability to deal with them.” ― Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free 

New Year, New You- Following through with your New Years Resolutions

I would be willing to bet, every year at least 90 % of Americans make New years resolutions. With the year winding down it’s time to get ready to act on these resolutions. We all have the intentions of following through with them, but it is so easy to lose sight of the changes you intend to make. Here are some suggestions on following thru with your New Years Resolutions: 

1. Make Realistic Resolutions- Don’t expect to become a millionaire in a year, or lose 100 lbs, or become a vegetarian over night. Make measurable, realistic resolutions. For example- The 3 aforementioned “goals” are kind of my resolutions- I’d like to save more money, get into better shape, and eat more healthy. So instead of having exact expectations of your resolution, just generalize what you’d like to achieve. 

2. Claim it- Speak of your resolutions as if you have already acheived them. Instead of saying- "my new years resolution's are to get rich, and lose weight....,' Say "Since it is a new year, I am getting rich, and losing weight." You have to think positive and already claim that you are aceheiving your resolutions. The key to getting anything accomplished is believing you can do it. What better way to believe than speaking as if it is already achieved.  

3. Share Them- I’ve been seeing posts on social media making fun of people who are making resolutions this year-Ignore them. I bet those people are at a stand still in life and have no drive or plans for their future. I can’t speak for anyone else, but I don’t want to be in the same position in my life next year. Sharing your resolution will allow you to be accountable for your words. It will motivate you to want to achieve what you say you are going to do.

4. Keep your Eye on the prize- Keep your written resolutions where your can see them. It will be a constant reminder that you WILL reach your goals. I personally will be making a pretty framed list of my resolutions and placing it on my dresser, that way every time I get ready, I will be remininded of my resolutions.

5. Keep a Journal- I know journals are very cliché and kind of weird. I used to keep a journal when I was younger and write EVERYTHING in it.. I stopped because one time I left it at a friend’s house after a sleepover and I know they read it. LOL! I was so embarrassed, although my friend never brung it up. Not only that, I know my mom and brother used to always read it too. But if you make the journal specific to your resolutions. It shouldn’t be embarrassing ;-). I'd suggest writing every month highlighting what you've done to contribute to your resolution. This will allow you to track your progress, while keeping your eye on the prize. Please share with me your resolutions below in the comments! I'd like to see what everyone is wanting to change. Mine are- 

Eat healthier by Meal Prepping

Excercise more 

Follow a strict budget

 Read more books 

 Strengthen my religious beliefs.

Lets make 2014 better than 2013! 

Xoxo,

Joia

Destination Felicity Presents: Positive Vibes Book Club

 I am not an avid reader- Matter of fact, I can count on both hands how many books I’ve read start to finish. I know you are probably like, “did you go to school?” Lol, well that’s what they made cliff notes for! I have longed to become a book-worm and I think being part of a book club is a great way to do so! Positive Vibes Book Club will focus on readings for the soul! The few books I have read, I finished in a few days or less and that is how you know you’re reading a good book. I hope the books we read will have this effect but I can assure we will engage in conversations about each book we read and be able to apply it in our everyday lives, in a positive way.

 Being a part of this E-club comes with perks! 

I will provide each member with a PDF copy of the book of the month. You can read it on any tablet or print it out, whichever you prefer. Also, each member is invited to contribute in monthly discussions and as an incentive to do so, the person with the most insightful contribution each month will get a prize. YAY for prizes! Id like to complete 1 book a month having the discussion begin the last 2 weeks of the month. To join the club all you have to do is comment on this post, "I'm in"  and subscribe to this blog by entering your email address on the home page. If its easier for you to just email me please do so at joia@destinationfelicity.com. Thats all! Please join by January 5th.

This will be our first read. Once you join the club, I will email a PDF copy to the email address used for subscribing. Thanks and I can't wait to radiate positive vibes with you all!

Xoxo,

Joia