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Why You Should Work a Traditional Job Before Blogging

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The one thing I hear you guys saying most is that you’d love to blog full-time…

Though I can confirm that leaving a traditional cubicle job has been one of the most liberating things I have ever done in my life, I will say the lessons I took from corporate life were INVALUABLE! Sure, it’s really amazing to be this creative person and work solely on creative projects, but I could never take for granted the structure and professionalism it taught me. Many of the skills I carry and value myself for today are exactly what I took from that confining, boring traditional work life. Wondering exactly what I’m talking about? Here are all the reasons you should work a traditional job before blogging…

Why You Should Work a Traditional Job Before Blogging | Zanita.com

It teaches you STRUCTURE.

There’s no secret about me working with various bloggers – and I’ll never name names, but I will say, the MOST successful bloggers are those who put a structure to their business. The ones who do that best are the ones who come from traditional corporate jobs. There are many many bloggers out there who have “made” it for their looks or creative skills, but they aren’t always the most professional to work with. Blogging is fun and games at times, but ultimately, it’s still a business and you should give it a structure in order to gain sustainable, long-term success.

What I hated most about corporate was “structure”, but I do have to admit that I miss it at times 🙂 The bloggers who value me most are the exact ones who have this “structure”.

It teaches you to value timely COMMUNICATION.

When I worked in corporate, I was at my desk all day which meant that if an email came through, I responded as soon as I could. If my supervisor or her boss sent an email, you can bet my response was instant. Business is business… However, it’s hard to “value” timely communication when it’s all done digitally, you don’t know the face of the person you’re communicating with, and there’s other things you’d rather invest your time in. Some days, I feel like I’m constantly chasing other people and it’s not fun. You would think if someone had the opportunity to do something as exclusive and special as fashion blogging, communication is everything, but nope…

It teaches you PLANNING.

One of the things my Planner back in Merchandising drilled into my head that has stuck till this day was setting goals and targets. You never know if you’re going to achieve that goal, but it gives you something to work towards. If there is no target, you’ll just be horsing around with little success at the end of the year. Again, the most successful bloggers are those with a long-term vision and then take corrective action to get there. Blogging can seem short-sighted but only if you act in tandem. Start your planning and long-term vision now, so you know what you’re working to get.

Anyway, the point is that although your traditional job might not be what you want to do now, don’t underestimate the value you gain from it!

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

Image Source Credits – Memorandum

 

You Should Also Read:

The Biggest Myths About Starting a Blog DEBUNKED
4 Easy Tips to Create Great Content Every Time
How to Find Clients When You Start Out Freelancing

The post Why You Should Work a Traditional Job Before Blogging appeared first on Zanita Studio.


Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers

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Let’s talk branding. Branding is all the buzz in the blogging world lately. But why?

For one thing, the payoff for effective branding is unmatched. Branding is how you’re noticed and how you continue to be recognized in your industry. Branding starts with your logo and trickles down to your fonts, colors, pictures, and voice. Yes, how you talk to your audience is part of your branding. Branding even goes as far as the companies you choose to work with.

It makes sense for fashion bloggers to partner with fashion brands, food bloggers to partner with food brands, fitness bloggers to partner with fitness brands, etc. Things tend to get a little sticky when bloggers shy away from what’s expected of them and accept sponsorships from brands in every corner of the market.

For example, if a fashion blogger were to partner with a tech app, it wouldn’t necessarily be the best move considering the blogger’s audience is geared toward fashion, not tech (unless of course, the app was a fashion-tech app).

You don’t want to become too daring and go off track from why you started blogging in the first place, otherwise, you’ll lose the loyal following you’ve worked so hard to build. Your audience comes to you for a reason, don’t blow it with poor branding.

Whether your branding is eh, or you don’t have branding at all, below is a branding guide for beginner bloggers today:

branding guide for beginner bloggers | zanita studio

Representative logo

Your logo is the first thing to brand. If you’re serious about your brand, you should seriously invest in a unique logo. You may be using the header image that was provided in a blog template/theme you bought or you may have just randomly picked a pretty font and used it to type your blog name. Unfortunately, those two options just won’t cut it and here’s why:

  1. When you buy a premade template/theme, it’s likely there are a ton of other bloggers who bought the same one, using the same header for their blog name, which means your logo is not unique and can easily be mistaken for someone else’s.
  2. Picking a random “pretty” font most likely won’t have the longevity you need. You want something timeless that can be used for potential products, events, emails, etc. Choosing a trendy script logo may not work if you’re a minimalistic fashion blogger, but it would work for a DIY blogger.

Perfecting your logo may seem obvious but there are a ton of bloggers who don’t even have one. Don’t be one of those bloggers.

Think about the type of blogger you’ll be. Are you low key? Are you blunt and bold? Are you shy? Are you girly? You want a logo to capture the true essence of who you are. You also want to consider your niche and the topics you’ll be covering on your blog. If you’re strictly a health blogger you could go with a logo that is maybe green or incorporates a food stencil somehow.

branding guide for beginner bloggers | zanita.comOn the other hand, most fashion blogger logos tend to be very editorial, magazine-like channeling their inner Vogue. Many fashion bloggers go for a simple serif, black font logo. Look at We Wore What, Zanita, Something Navy, and The Chriselle Factor. They all have a very high fashion, clean, editorial vibe.

So the best way to pick a logo that’s right for you is to start by creating a mood board on Pinterest of logos that stand out to you. Then hire a designer or try designing it on your own. And remember to take your time and play around with different fonts and sizes. Picking a logo won’t happen overnight.

(Email me at brittany@notanotherblonde.com if you need an affordable graphic designer.)

Complementary fonts

Like picking a logo, you want to pick fonts that suit you and your blog and go with your logo. You don’t want to choose fonts that overpower your logo. Your logo should be the main focus.

Plus, people are going to be reading your blog at length so it might be best to go with fonts that are simple and easy on the eyes versus fancy script fonts with all kinds of swirls and twirls (this Curlz MT). In other words, you don’t want something too distracting. Typically staying within the serif or sans serif family is a good idea.

You also want to keep your font choices to a minimum in order to maintain a fluid and consistent aesthetic.  So I don’t recommend more than 4 fonts for your brand/blog. (The 4 fonts do include those used for your logo.) Switching between a ton of different fonts will confuse your audience and your branding will become diluted.

If you’re totally lost and have no idea where to find fonts that go really well together, ask Google. Google “best font pairs” or “best blog fonts” or “fashion blog fonts”. You will get a ton of results with examples to choose from which makes picking fonts so much easier (especially if you’re as indecisive as I am).

Killer aesthetic

An aesthetic is the feeling or vibe your readers/followers get when they visit your blog and any social media channel connected to your blog. Some bloggers have a colorful, bright aesthetic, others are more moody with a desaturated look (lots of black, white, and grey). Regardless what aesthetic you choose, you want it to fit with your personality.

rebecca laurey in wide leg trousers and white button down | zanita.comIf you’re more reserved and “mysterious”, a more moody vibe might be a good fit for you. If you’re more bubbly and energetic a colorful, textured feed might work well. But whatever you end up going with, you want to make sure you’re consistent with it across your social media and blog. It wouldn’t make sense for you to have a super colorful blog and then a dark and muted Instagram.

Your aesthetic goes beyond photo editing, it encompasses the colors you choose for your blog too. Your brand colors should be just as consistent with your fonts and no more than 5. For example, when you’re designing a graphic, customizing your blog layout, or posting a quote on Instagram you want the colors you use to be aligned with the 5 (or less) you chose for your brand.

Authentic voice

Last but certainly not least, what ties your branding all together is your brand voice. This is what really seals the deal for your readers. It’s whether they stay on your blog or go somewhere else. It’s how you form that true long, lasting connection.

So how do you find a “voice”? You shouldn’t have to find it at all, it should just come naturally. Personally, for the most part, I write exactly how I talk. Of course, there is a certain emphasis missing but when you read what I write I hope it feels like I’m right in front of you talking directly to you.

Depending on your brand and overall personality your voice could be more or less reserved. If your audience is a bunch of business professionals, you probably want your brand to communicate like one. If your brand is more laid back and casual, your voice can be more candid and less filtered. Some bloggers curse, talk about taboo subjects and go off script. Other bloggers are very private and only reveal certain aspects of them and their lives.

Sincerely Jules is a perfect example of this; she’s mild-mannered, kind of quiet and reserved. You definitely won’t hear her lashing out about politics or any other controversial subjects because that’s not “on brand” for her. However, someone like Girl With No Job would have no problem talking about sex or something that some people might find inappropriate.

Finding your voice takes time but once you perfect it, it’s the glue that holds your brand together.

What’s your biggest branding struggle? Tell us in the comments below! 

 

xx Britt

Follow Me – Blog Instagram YouTube Snapchat @notanothrblonde

You Should Also Read:

The Best & Worst Part About Being a Blogger
What I Learned During My First Major Photoshoot
Monthly Blog Tip Q&A: August Edition

The post Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers appeared first on Zanita Studio.

6 Things I Wish I Knew in My 20s

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I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m officially 30 as of yesterday…

I started writing for Zanita when I was 27 and can hardly believe I’m here today still writing this type of content. It seems that some of my most popular posts come from my personal life lessons, so here I am starting a whole new chapter of my life. And I’ll be sharing all the things I wish I knew in my 20s. Cliché but true… My 20s were such a confusing, conflicting time – and I can’t express the wonderful feeling of taking true ownership of my life as I close that decade.

Here are the 6 main things I wish I knew in my 20s…

#1 Sometimes, it’s not worth fighting for; sometimes, it’s not worth fighting about…

How far you get in life is invariably dependent on who you choose to be with. Sure, this applies to your friends, but it becomes even more significant when it comes to your life partner. If you’re pulling more than your weight to make something work, it’s probably not worth fighting for. And often times, I think many of us already know; we’re just scared to make that big move. But, trust your gut…it knows more than you do. That being said, not everything is worth fighting about, so learn to pick your battles carefully. If holding your ground means acting out in a way that damages a relationship, it probably isn’t worth fighting about..

Things I Wish I Knew in My 20s | zanita.com

#2 It’ll be ok…

I spent so much of my 20s worrying – worrying about my goals, worrying about where I’m at in certain stages of my life, and worrying about the future. What a waste. I wish I took more time to just enjoy life as it was. When time is gone, it’s lost forever and you never get it back. Looking back, that decade of my life would have probably been so much easier if I had someone there to tell me that everything will be ok and life will work out exactly as it’s supposed to. If it’s been a while since you’ve heard those words, I’m happy to tell you, it’ll be ok. If you’re working hard, helping others along the way, and doing the things that you want to, you will be fine. Stop worrying.

#3 Learn to refocus your energy…

Difficult times have a way of feeling pervasive – and you will endure much of it throughout your 20s. However, don’t let the negativity drag you down so far that you lose yourself to drugs, the wrong people, or whatever bad company exists. I’ve learned that the best way to combat hard times is to redirect your energy into actions that can point you towards your goals. If you’re struggling in the job market, tweak your resume, send it out, and keep on tweaking and sending. If you just went through a nightmare break up, surround yourself with people who can support you! The pain eventually passes. You just have to learn how to pivot.

#4 You can never be so sure…

Life can be so deceitful, but you eventually realize that you can never be so sure about anything or anyone. There is no such thing as security or forever. What I mean is that everything in this world is temporary, so never get too obsessed or overly attached to your job, your finances, and people. That’s not to say you should live life with a fortress built so high and thick around you that you never get to experience the beauty of all those great things. It’s that you should be well-equipped for those uncontrived battles that infiltrate at a moment’s notice.

#5 Not everyone is as happy as they seem…

Everyone’s life looks so amazing and so magical. Everyone but me… I think we’ve all been there. Just remember that everyone has their own problems. Everyone is a little cray. And nothing is ever as perfect as it seems. I know it can be hard to believe in a world of perfectly curated Instagram lives, but you know that saying, “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is”… Yeah, marinate on that. Learn to be happy with what you have and you will receive more.

#6 Learn your strengths and capitalize on them…

Don’t waste your youth partying and drinking. In fact, take the little time you have in your 20s to build hobbies, refine skills, and figure out what you’re good at. You never know what those strengths might become. The earlier you navigate your strengths and cultivate them, the further you’ll ascend in life. And don’t stop until you find it. Everyone is good at something – it just takes more time for some of us.

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

You Should Also Read:

Top 10 Life Lessons From The Last 10 Years
The Most Important Lessons I Learned in 2015
10 Lessons From My First Year of Fashion Merchandising

The post 6 Things I Wish I Knew in My 20s appeared first on Zanita Studio.

For the Love of Rough Diamonds

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french connection blogger outfitdebeers diamond rings

It’s not every day I get the chance to wear stunning rough diamonds set in gold from an industry icon, DeBeers Jewellers. Inspired by the warm tones and retro feeling of the Talisman collection for DeBeers, the shoot really has me feeling in the character of a glamorous starlet of the past. The pieces have just the right amount of detail to feel truly unique – I love the rough diamonds, like in life, beautiful things don’t ever need to be perfect.

Special thanks to DeBeers for inviting me to realize this vision and to step into a new character. Hope you enjoy!

The post For the Love of Rough Diamonds appeared first on Zanita Studio.

We Can All Be Activists – Here’s How

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As the global populations continue to swell and we all live in a world saturated in media, so often it feels like the healthiest thing you can do for your mental state is to just tune out. I know I’ve experienced my share of anxiety from current events – especially as a resident of the USA and an avid follower of politics with liberal leanings, my heart weeps for the lower class, anyone in a minority group, women, teachers, nurses, anyone with health issues, anyone with a student loan…. The list is endless and the world feels divided. For most people, simply surviving the day with enough to eat, have the strength and self confidence to get out of bed, go to work and earn enough to get by and try to be a support to those you love – is more than enough.

The most dangerous symptom of our changing world is complacency. We have ideas for positive change but we don’t act on them.

Time Magazine recently named ‘The Silence Breakers’ Person of the Year. It’s not that women haven’t come forward to report assaults in the past, it’s that for the first time said accusations weren’t immediately met with doubt, that women raised one another voices and came forward together, that the heart of the problem was addressed by the wider media, highlighting how widespread this pervasive societal sickness and how devastating the overbearing effects of patriarchy are on 50 percent of the population.  We still have a long way to go on this – it’s easy to feel helpless – but we aren’t.

It isn’t just on women’s issues where opinions on civil liberties and society views are askew. Racism, ablism, gender politics and class are all areas that need to be discussed – and while the topics are heated and divisive in the media, it’s actually at home where we can make the most powerful change. Your significant other may not even full grasp the challenges that society puts upon you or someone persecuted that you care about. It’s actually staggering how much is left unsaid between our friends – especially when these conversations have such clout and can reverberate through society. Sharing your perspective on the ails of society, whether it be with your immediate family, your friends, your co-workers or on facebook – is POWERFUL.

Talking about the #MeToo movement with friends of all genders, discussing the ways that the patriarchy disfavours women (See Cheryl Sandberg’s Lean In if you want some real statistics!) can help open eyes to the systematic attitudes that imbalance our society. My own experience with this has been truly eye opening, some of the people I care most about have had little understanding of what being a woman in the workplace and in society at large is like, how intimidating it can be, the unacceptable behaviours just being brushed aside.  I’m going to be building some collaborative posts in the future to discuss the experiences of different minorities to help us all understand experiences beyond our own. I want to encourage conversation on a grass roots level to contribute a better understanding and a peaceful unity. You don’t need to be marching in the streets and donating hard won cash to causes (though these help too!) in order to be an activist for what is right, you just gotta be armed with facts and a composed approach so we can educate one another.

One of the reasons I’m inspired by this is because I too, am unarmed with enough facts. I’m a white woman of lower/middle class upbringing, coming from a small rural town which is pretty much ethnically homogenous. I have much to learn when it comes to the experiences of minorities – even in my attempt to be an ally I have blundered, not understanding the appropriate language for the transgender community or perpetuating inappropriate jokes on race. Being human means we are going to make mistakes but we can also learn from the past and do better. Look forward to sharing more!

In the meantime – I would love to hear about any areas you feel you could be lacking some understanding in the experiences of others.

Thanks so much! Zanita x

Little note: Shot these images as a little project post one of my advertorial shoots, snapped in a hotel room here in New York – inspired my beautiful backlight and this incredible silk dress by Aussie designer Lee Mathews.

The post We Can All Be Activists – Here’s How appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Top Skills Big Bloggers Are Looking for Right Now

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Before I started blogging full-time, it was difficult to fathom what skills bloggers needed to run a successful business…

Photography, photo editing, and writing skills were all high in demand years ago but as a slew of self-proclaimed photog enthusiasts and bloggers flooded the scene, the need for these specialized skills declined. Every major blogger has their go-to photog, writer, and editor. That can often leave you feeling like there’s no place for you. But wrong. Having done this for over two years now, I’m quick to notice when certain skills rise in demand. Unfortunately, I don’t have the time to learn and refine these skills as I once did before, so consider yourself lucky if you can! I’ll be sharing the top skills big bloggers are looking for right now:

Top Skills Big Bloggers Are Looking for Right Now - Zanita Street Style | Zanita.comVideo Editing

The space for visual stimulation through a consistent stream of unique imagery has already been fulfilled through Instagram and blogs today. What the market craves is video. They want real-time content and a behind the scenes reel, which is why vlogging and live sessions are so popular today. Bloggers understand the demand for this type of content and are now actively seeking out videographers and video editors. I can’t tell you how many bloggers have asked for this service. And not only are they asking for it but brands too! So, if you specialize in this area, you’re in major luck. Start reaching out. If not, maybe it’s time to scratch photography and pick up videography.

Coding

How I wish I studied coding in college… As bloggers rise up the ranks of the industry, so does their content. And eventually, that translates into their personal space: the blog. Bloggers eventually hit a point where they need their blog to not look like a template but a fully customized website. Knowing the ins and outs of WordPress or Squarespace from a coding perspective will put you in business! Again, great skill to learn if you’re looking for a way into the industry.

Graphic Design

I admit that at some point, I thought graphic design was an overrated skill but boy was I wrong! If you know Illustrator, InDesign, and/or Photoshop, you’re in luck! As bloggers scale their business and strive to move everything in-house, finding someone who has a strong understanding of graphics, typography, and space is essential for success. You’ll be able to formulate pitches, media kits, and put together shoppable collages that all contribute to the victory of being a blogger.

Social Media Marketing

Social media is time consuming to understand especially when you start to throw all the different platforms into the mix. Having a deep, strong foundation of how Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter works will tug you into the strategy aspect of running a blog with a blogger. Although bloggers are very protective of their Instagram, they tend to need a lot of help running their other platforms. Your expertise in this area will be a huge valuable asset.

How do you feel about these skills? Ready to start pitching for yourself?

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post Top Skills Big Bloggers Are Looking for Right Now appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Top Hair Trends for the New Year

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A brand new year comes with a heap of brand new things…

And for me, one of those new things happen to be hair! If 2017 took you through a roller coaster, you’re probably ready for 2018. Nothing makes me feel better than stepping into a new year with a ready-to-conquer attitude and a fierce new look to accompany. When I feel good, my self-confidence impels to the forefront. I’m in no place to change my brows or switch up my style (that’s a little too expensive), but hair is easy to play with (and it’s affordable). Getting a fresh cut or color and will instantly help you turn over a new leaf. Let’s talk top hair trends for the new year.

Sanctuary Salon in Williamsburg NY | Zanita.com

First off, huge thanks to Sanctuary Salon for helping me achieve this color. If you’re ever in the NYC area, I recommend you check out this charming space in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s super easy to access from the subway, and totally worth it because they handle hair with precision and care, plus extra bonus points for using cruelty-free and eco-friendly products.

Eco-Luxe Salon - Sanctuary Salon in NYC | Zanita.com

Now onto top hair trends for the new year…

Hair Color…

My biggest question was, “there’s been so much buzz around balayage these last few years, is it dead?” If many of you are wondering the same thing, Paige from Sanctuary assured that balayage is not going anywhere! What’s changing though is hair color! Expect to see a lot of gray and soft platinum hues. Although I wasn’t brave enough to edge towards this side of the color spectrum, I did try something drastically different. You can follow my transformation below. Paige applied Olaplex to prevent damage from coloring and then advised me to use purple shampoo to maintain the color and tone down gold, brassy tones.

Hair Cuts…

The last two years have been all about the lob… From shaggy ends to clean edges, I don’t think there was a cut more popular on Instagram. For 2018, short hair is here to stay! However, you can expect to see more fringe. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the hair game, try messy, choppy bangs with texturized hair. I opted out of a haircut as I’m trying to grow it out, but don’t be surprised to see some fringe in the next few months. To achieve the bed head texture that I’m crazy about, Paige applied Sachajuan Dry Powder Shampoo after blowing out sections of my hair with a round brush. I loved how piecey it made my hair look.

Hair Styling…

2018 is all about full, shaggy texture. Pull it off with a deep side or center part while embracing your hair’s natural state. Whether that’s slick straight or curly, amp up the volume and play up the part. Looking for a fun style? Braids are going to be huge! Now’s a good time to flick on some YouTube tutorials and master a few tricks.

Hair Accessories…

Surprise, surprise…scrunchies are making a comeback! You can take on the trend by securing your hair into a loose, low ponytail using a plain-colored scrunchie. Be sure to pull some hair out into the front for an effortless, undone finish and create texture by backcombing random sections. Not on the scrunchie train yet? Pull your hair back with a velvet ribbon for a cute, classy look.

Balayage with Eco-Friendly Products at Sanctuary Salon | Zanita.com
Asian Brown Balayage Hair | Zanita.comAsian Balayage Hair | Zanita.com

Asian Hair before Balayage | Zanita.comtop hair trends - Asian Brown Balayage Hair | Zanita.com

Photos by Nhieu Tang

What do you think about my new look? Love it, hate it? Share below. Don’t forget to check out Sanctuary Salon for your next hair needs!

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube SHOP

 

You Should Also Read:

Balayage Hair: Everything You Need to Know and More
Essential Products for Keeping My Hair Light & Bright
Hair Products That Helped Me Survive Winter & Beyond

The post Top Hair Trends for the New Year appeared first on Zanita Studio.

Important Things We Forget About New Year’s Resolutions

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With Christmas at an end, we have New Year’s coming up…

And while some people find it cliché to create New Year’s resolutions, others find it to be a real long-term goal. But let’s be honest, everybody has one whether it’s cutting back on spending, starting that business venture, or losing a few pounds. For those of us who create resolutions, we know it doesn’t often go according to plan (especially if it’s a habit that you want to change) because you either lose interest or give up along the way when the obstacles get too hard. Regardless, it’s ultimately your choice as to whether you want to change for the better or continue living life in safe, comfortable way. Before taking the safe route, we wanted to share a few important things we forget about New Year’s resolutions. Taking these points into consideration will help you achieve your goals for 2018.

Important Things We Forget About New Year’s ResolutionsIt literally requires discipline and prioritizing…

…henceforth, the phrase ‘long-term goals.’ Everyone’s dilemma in nailing those resolutions is “to do” or “not to do”. Here’s a scenario. You want to stop spending so much money, but you’re tempted with a covet-worthy object right in front of your face. We’ve all struggled with those extra 25% off sales, so do we buy or not buy? That’s the thing. You have to be able to differentiate between priorities and desires because once you cave in, you’re more likely to cave in again. And again. And again. The magic in achieving those resolutions happens when you develop the discipline to follow through. Reject once and watch how resistance unfolds into results..

The next thing that we definitely forget is that New Year’s Resolutions require commitment…

All of this might sound repetitive and annoying, but in all seriousness, repetition is what generates tangible outcomes. Long-term commitment is the biggest battle when it comes to resolutions. Being dedicated requires commitment in the smallest tasks – it’s the little things that add up to bigger ones. So, get a planner, utilize a calendar, set up reminders on your phone – and commit! Looking to shed a few pounds? Maybe it’s going for a power walk everyday during lunch for 15 minutes and then turning those 15 minutes into 30 and so forth. When you commit to small changes, it’s easier to convert them into something bigger. Don’t expect miraculous results without the little actions.

Finally, we’re all human…

It’s in our nature to forget… We make promises and we flounder. But, that’s no signal to give up. You get up, try again, and repeat. Don’t let one or a few mistakes push your resolutions to the back burner. Build the mental stamina to keep pushing for the things that you want.

Our main point today is that we’re all often guilty of setting New Year’s resolutions while overlooking the more important aspects of achieving goals: Discipline, Commitment, and Tenacity. Make those three traits priority and watch your 2018 resolutions turn into reality.

 

Image Source Credits – Not Jess Fashion
 

You Should Also Read:

Getting Back on Track With Your Goals After They Fall Off Your Radar
How To Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions Realistic
Tips to Keep Kicking Ass in 2017

The post Important Things We Forget About New Year’s Resolutions appeared first on Zanita Studio.


4 Tips That Have Helped Me Let Go of the Past

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Do you feel like you’re always caught up in bad situations and you just can’t seem to stop thinking about them?

I’ve had plenty of these issues before (and I still do now) – and I’ll be the first to say it sucks. If you’re like me, then you probably take most of your encounters personally and literally. When those encounters go sour, I always have a pretty hard time letting go of negative thoughts, the pain, and the situation itself. I know how badly it can weigh you down and disrupt your daily activities. But through the years, I’ve learned how to let go and channel that energy into something positive. You can do the same if you condition your mind to. Read on to get the four tips that have helped me let go of the past.

How to let go of the past | Zanita Studio– Drop the expectations

Expectation is the root of all disappointment. If you feel like people are just upsetting you, lower your expectations and standards for those around you. There is absolutely nothing wrong with expecting things from people especially when it’s a working relationship, but know that expectations become problematic when your bar gets higher. And if you’re a natural high-performer, then you’re probably guilty of this. Once you learn to drop the expectations regardless of your actions or efforts, you’ll become less disappointed and let go faster.

– Stop the blame game

I’ve realized that when I struggled to let something go in the past, it’s because I was too attached to who or what the cause was… Was it me? Was it them? Could I have done something better? The more you blame yourself, the harder it is to let go. You’ll end up mulling over it for days, weeks, and years. And the more you blame others, the more you dislike them. It never really matters whose fault it is in the end. What’s more important is moving forward regardless of the end result.

– Let it hurt, then let it go.

If something bothers you that much, give it time to soak in. Allow the pain to consume you for a while, then make the decision to let it go. Nothing ever disappears on its own. You need to make a conscious effort – and don’t forget that you ALWAYS have a choice. Yes, things will get worse before they get better, but it always gets better. Of course, it’s not as easy as it sounds, but I promise that if you focus on the present and do the things that bring you joy, you’ll eventually learn to let go of the past and the pain.

– Take time to yourself.

Last but not least, just take a moment to yourself and breathe (and do not associate alone time with loneliness). We’ve all been cursed with busy minds. With the massive amount of information we absorb daily, it’s important to slow down, marinate on it, and organize it. Having time to do exactly that helps you keep your mind clear while giving you a more accurate perspective of the situation. It’s pretty impressive what happens in your mental and emotional state when you finally gain perspective.

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post 4 Tips That Have Helped Me Let Go of the Past appeared first on Zanita Studio.

How to Sharpen Your Interpersonal Skills

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In an effort to be kinder (and happier) in the New Year, I wanted to touch on a topic rarely talked about these days…

WORDS. The way you write and talk are usually the two most important factors in connecting with others. And in an era where filters are non-existent, do you actually think about what you say and how others might feel? One of the platitudes I’m trying to live by is, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” And these last few months, I’ve learned that the key to creating a happier environment and building authentic connections is learning how to  communicating clearly and effectively. If you’re looking to sharpen your interpersonal skills, here are 3 things to think about when it comes to words.

sharpen your interpersonal skills | zanita.com#1 Consider your personal feelings.

To some, words are just words and have no impact. However, words can be like blades grazing over skin; they have the power to wound and penetrate deep, and often leave a life-long impact. (Any writer knows this.) So before you speak, think about how you might feel if you were on the opposite end. If you’d be upset, it’s probably not worth speaking at all. And if you struggle to hold you tongue amid altercations, give yourself 10 seconds of silence. That’s usually enough time to realize that silence can be the best remedy. At the end of the day, having the last word or winning an argument benefits no one – and that’s your first step to maintaining friends and bringing up others.

#2 Put compassion and empathy first (always).

I 100% believe that you can be a better person by inspiring and empowering those around you – and in order to achieve that, you must be able to show compassion and empathize with others. You obviously know by that now that you won’t always agree with the decisions of those around you. You’ll be disappointed and want to cut people off, but stop to validate the other person’s actions for once. Accept that disagreements are perfectly fine and acknowledge them – then speak accordingly. When you put compassion and empathy first, you instantly become more relatable. And if you don’t know the person, shut those biases and prejudices out. They serve no place in authentic connections.

#3 Listen intently & pay careful attention.

Awareness is key if you want to sharpen your interpersonal kills – and you do that by talking less and listening more. Show that you’re curious by asking questions along the way. And as you listen, watch the other person’s body language; it’s been said that most communication occurs at the nonverbal level. That also means you should be aware of your own nonverbal cues… Consider your posture, facial expressions, and the distance between you and your subject. Don’t let distractions intercept your mind in the middle of a conversation. I’ve been guilty of this many times before – and I can’t tell you how embarrassing it is to have to go back and ask what you’ve already been told.

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post How to Sharpen Your Interpersonal Skills appeared first on Zanita Studio.

5 Great New Years Resolutions to Make in 2018

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Happy New Year everyone!

2017 took us for a deranged turn of events, and we’re both torn and excited that it’s finally come to a close. For the parts that broke you, remember to put away the past, let go of the failures, and quit the procrastination. And think of 2018 as an opportunity to transform into the best version of you. If you spent last night soaking up the final hours of 2017, you can spend New Year’s day actually thinking about what you want to achieve this year. We’re helping you get started by sharing 5 great New Year’s resolutions to make in 2018.

How ever you view the new year, we hope it brings you plenty of peace, happiness, and success. Now onto the fun part (and our personal favorite): resolutions!

1. Do more of what you love

Too often, we only focus on the things we’re supposed to do like work and errands, which end up becoming a repeat cycle of life. This year, we challenge you to do more of what you love whether that’s going out for quick morning runs, making MORE art, or reading more books. These things often times require scheduling and setting aside time to make happen. If that’s what you need to do, then utilize your calendar, reminders, and notes – whatever it takes – to make them a reality.

Great New Years Resolutions to Make in 2018 | Zanita.com

2. Stand up for what you believe

There’s a lot of crap happening in the world right now – many of which several of us have polarizing opinions on. Instead of just talking the talk, why not walk the walk? If you truly believe in something, then do something about it instead of rant about it. We’re so passionate about inspiring you, adding value to your life, and empowering you to take charge. We fell off track a bit last year, but we strive to move back in the right direction by creating the type of content you like to read! Do share what you’d love to see below.

3. Stop comparing yourself

Social media took us to new heights last year, and that was probably good and bad. We can either use social media to inspire and propel us, or destroy us. If you found yourself constantly envious of social influencers’ highlight reel, strive to make 2018 a year of action and creation. Stop comparing your success to those around you. Think about your own accomplishments, the things you have, and what you love about your life. Acknowledge your possessions and success, and then learn to be content with where you’re at.

4. Try more positive self-talk

We know this sounds silly (and probably a little crazy), BUT it works. Since you’re probably already in constant conversation with yourself, you might as well attempt to turn that dialogue into positive self-talk. It takes a little practice but start with positive affirmations. For example:

  • I know I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
  • I forgive myself for the mistakes I have made because I know I’m human, and it’s ok.
  • I know that I always have a choice, and I choose positive thoughts and feelings.

5. Learn a new skill

Above all, attempt to learn a new skill and illustrate some form of mastery by the end of this year. The easiest way to do this is to break the skill into parts. For instance, if your goal is to learn photo editing, start with tweaking presets you might already own, then delve into skin retouching, and finally, custom creating filters. Don’t get too worried about getting everything right. Mastering the subcomponents will help you achieve the overall skill faster.

What are your 2018 resolutions?
 

Image Source Credits – The Girl From Panama
 

You Should Also Read:

Important Things We Forget About New Year’s Resolutions
How To Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions Realistic
4 Tips That Have Helped Me Let Go of the Past

The post 5 Great New Years Resolutions to Make in 2018 appeared first on Zanita Studio.

How to Make it As A Blogger in 2018

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So it’s 2018, and you still wanna be a blogger?

It’s hard to believe that after all these years, bloggers are still relevant, which goes to prove that all this talk about the blogging bubble bursting is never actually going to happen. And it is still very worthwhile to start a blog.

The landscape has changed tremendously these last few years with social media being a huge game changer. The Internet is also far flooded with blogs, fashion boutiques, AND blogging advice when compared to three years ago! You can’t approach blogging the way we did back in the day. But remember that new bloggers still sprout up daily, and several are capable of making a name for themselves. That means you can too.

If you’re still interested in the blogging scene, read on to find out how to make it as a blogger in 2018.

How to Make It As a Blogger in 2018 | zanita.com

Identify what’s broken.

If you want to start a blog, chances are you’ve been reading blogs. Identify what’s missing from the blogosphere that you’d love to see. Then use that to focus on content you want to create. Don’t waste time wondering why things are broken and don’t dramatize it. Instead, seize the opportunity to fill a possibility. For instance, blogging has become very commercialized in a sense, and as a result, everyone’s creating “high-end imagery” with a DSLR. If you’re sick of the carefully curated content, maybe it’s time to move back to iPhone images, barely edited. Content also seems to be either photo-driven or video. Nothing in between. Maybe it’s a good time to illustrate your life in GIFs. The prospects are endless. You just have to take something that’s been done and do it better or do it different.

Get good at storytelling.

Storytelling was such a buzzword at one point, and it should be because that’s how you get someone to BUY into you. It’s through telling stories that people connect and rationalize with you. Stories drive clarity and they get people motivated. If you can motivate someone, you best believe they sure as hell will pay attention to you. Unfortunately, this skill requires discipline and practice, so get practicing.

Be committed to solving problems.

Blogging is all about starting with an idea and finding ways to implement it. As your thoughts become more tangible, you’ll hit roadblocks. But don’t look at those bumps as a sign to quit. Instead, think more carefully about how to overcome them – and then seek solutions to induce them repeatedly. Having this desire to solve problems will drive you to your destination as long as you don’t quit. The biggest hurdles in blogging are typically time and a lack of resources. For instance, you need high quality photos, but you don’t have the money to hire a photographer or to buy a camera. Or if you have a camera, you don’t have time to learn how to use it. Your first step is to decide how you’re going to solve this problem…

Be realistic and give yourself a full year.

Don’t start a blog in 2018 unless you know that you can commit to it for at least a full year. Too many “potential bloggers” become disengaged within the first few months and end up quitting altogether. If you can’t handle disappointment and failure, then you probably shouldn’t start a blog because you’re going to feel all of it. I know how incredibly hard it is sticking to something that renders no instant results or gratification. But trust me when I say you need at least a full year to gauge how far you’ll go as a blogger.

Have a boundless vision.

Your initial idea will get you started, but be willing to listen to others in order to hone your idea into a long-lasting opportunity. Learn how to pay attention to indirect comments and connect them back to your blog early on. The faster you can change and adapt, the better off you’ll be as a blogger. Also, don’t just create a blog. Cultivate a strong, personal social network. You will engage and attract the right audience faster if you have a community-powered brand (think IntoTheGloss with Glossier).

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

Image Source Credits – LE JOLIE – Susan

 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post How to Make it As A Blogger in 2018 appeared first on Zanita Studio.

3 Life Changing Books For Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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Before you speak, I already know what you’re thinking…

Who has time for books when there’s hardly enough time to sleep. I think that often too. And every year, I’ve goaled to read at least three books, and I’ve always failed. For whatever reason, I couldn’t seem to get past TWO. However, I’m so proud to announce that my first book is down – and it’s ONLY January. Pretty impressive, right? In fact, it was so amazing I found inspiration to write this post! The books I’m about to dish out below literally put me in a trance, changed my perspective on life, and had me turning pages for dear life!

If you’re ready to take on a reading challenge and have hopes of running your own show one day, I’ve got a list of 3 life changing books for aspiring entrepreneurs below. You might not be a reader but these will keep you on your toes – and I can guarantee, you won’t be able to put them down. Here we go…

Life Changing Books for Aspiring Entrepreneurs | Zanita.com

SHOE DOG by Phil Knight

I’m so disappointed in myself for not reading this book earlier, but it came at the perfect time. This is basically a memoir of how Nike came to be in the eyes of co-founder, Phil Knight. It’s been a saving grace because the route of entrepreneurship is always scary, uncertain, and volatile. Phil goes to reassure that these feelings are all very normal – and a part of the process. These last few weeks, I’ve found myself in a state of confusion. My mind is always wandering – and I’ve become more forgetful than ever. There is so much to do, not enough time, and not enough resources. But my insecurities have been put to rest, thanks to Shoe Dog. For anyone who has the slightest thoughts about starting their own company one day, this is an absolute MUST-READ and my #1 recommendation. Phil’s stellar storytelling abilities make it hard to put the book done. A++++++ in my book!

Life Changing Books for Aspiring Entrepreneurs | Zanita.com

THE LAW OF ATTRACTION by Esther & Jerry Hicks

If I wanted to be selfish, I’d never tell the world about this book, but I think it’s one everyone deserves to read. I also believe it was one of Sonya Esman’s top recommendation in her Azalle course. Anyway, regardless of faith or religious affiliation, this book reinforces the fact that everything you want and are capable of starts in your mind. And if you learn to see things as you want them (rather than as they are), they can become your reality. I’m only half-way through this book, but considering it’s only been about one week, I should be done by February! The premise might sound silly at first, but read on and you’ll quickly connect its truth to your past experiences and future. It’s a serious game changer!

Life Changing Books for Aspiring Entrepreneurs | Zanita.com

HOW TO WIN FRIENDS & INFLUENCE PEOPLE by Dale Carnegie

I read this book back in 2016 but I’ve saved so many pages from it (which I often go back and reference) that it’s worth mentioning here. Success in any endeavor involves people whether it’s your customers or your employees. And if you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, fact of the matter is, you cannot avoid people – even if you’re a hardcore introvert  like me. This book goes to explain several principles about connecting with others, which you haven’t yet put into practice. For instance, the insignificance of being right when the other party feels dumb – and how to better deal with it. Although a large part of this will seem like common sense, you’ll wonder why you never approached situations in these ways. Ultimately, I found it useful and reinforcing. If you need to tighten up those interpersonal skills, this is the one to read. It’ll be hard to put down once you get started.

So, there goes your 2018 reading list. Any recommendations for me?

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

Image Source Credits – LE JOLIE – Susan
 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post 3 Life Changing Books For Aspiring Entrepreneurs appeared first on Zanita Studio.

5 Great Reasons to Start a Blog This Year

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Although blogging can easily look like a bunch of narcissistic girls preaching nonsense about their lives, I encourage you to look beneath the surface….

– and try your own hand at it. The benefits of blogging aren’t always straight forward and plain to see, but the many moving parts and skills involved in this seemingly silly craft will take your skill set to a whole different level. If you’re looking for a new hobby, ready to start a new venture, or just bored with your life, let me give you that extra push to start something new with today’s post.

Here are 5 great reasons to start a blog this year:

5 Great Reasons to Start a Blog in 2018 | Zanita.com

#1 Maximize hidden opportunities

The sky is the limit when it comes to blogging. It’s one of those things that is what you make it – and you never know what opportunities can arise from it unless you try it. I’m such a fan of blogging (and bloggers) because it’s proof that great things can come out of nothing. You don’t always need to wait for someone or something in order to make something amazing happen. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to share an unfiltered perspective on your life – to say the things that matter – and give back to a community who can benefit from your experiences. You never know who may come across your content and change your life forever. There are so many hidden opportunities you can take advantage of in blogging.

#2 Improve your writing skills

Writing is one of those skills I consider ESSENTIAL even if you’re not a journalist or an author. It’s a means of communicating – and writing skills become important when you’re connecting through email or social media. That’s basically our world today. I realize that not everyone is a great writer, but blogging can definitely help you get there. Like most things in life, practice makes perfect. The more you write, the better you’ll get. And with time, you’ll be able to develop a style that makes your writing you. Because of blogging, writing has become MY way of life – and I can’t express enough how it’s changed it for the better.

#3 Connect with the like-minded

Before blogging, I struggled to find other people I could relate to. There wasn’t anyone who was as obsessed with fashion in the way that I was… Anyone who took their personal development as serious as I did… Or anyone who valued creativity like me… Blogging has opened that door for me – to connect with those who are like me that I can’t find in my own neck of the woods. I don’t know how many times I’ve said this, but you’re only as good as the people you spend time with. If you can’t find them in your community, you almost always will in the blogging community 🙂

#4 Learn a new skill

It’s hard to keep your mind fresh after school with nobody forcing you to learn or study anything more. However, when you’re blogging, you ALWAYS have to learn new skills. There are so many skills involved from photography to photo editing, coding, and graphic design. Not only that, but marketing strategy and social media. This is your chance to touch on all those things! I can’t think of a better all-encompassing way to learn new skills than starting a blog.

#5 Build confidence

In the beginning of blogging, everything will feel like a bubble of confusion. But as you navigate it, you’ll begin to develop a voice and a sense of style. You’ll be able to distinguish your likes and dislikes clearly. And with time, you’ll begin to feel more comfortable in your own skin. It makes you more self-aware and comfortable with who you are. I also feel like blogging is pure reinforcement of what you’re capable of – and what you didn’t know you are capable of. You’ll discover new talents and skills you didn’t know existed before. And most importantly, you’ll have a hard record of your personal growth. All these things will make you a more confident person!

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

Image Source Credits – LE JOLIE – Susan
 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post 5 Great Reasons to Start a Blog This Year appeared first on Zanita Studio.

How Forgiving Yourself Leads to Massive Success

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Are you able to look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself that you’re worth something?

This is a struggle that I’ve dealt with before (and still do from time to time), and it’s a thought that has the potential to either build the foundation of something great or tear down all that was set before you. Reasons we degrade ourselves are usually manifestations of a lack of forgiveness on our behalves for past mistakes. It’s almost never hard to recall my past mistakes – and when I think about them, my first reaction is to shoot a raging insult at myself. Of course, the insult gets the job done and I’m left in a negative mindset for who knows how long, but I’ve found a way to lift myself back up. How? Self-forgiveness and setting out the blocks of learning to love myself.

How Forgiving Yourself Leads to Massive Success | Zanita.comIf you haven’t learned, growing confidence and finding success all starts with forgiving yourself. This is a topic I hold very close to home and high in regard, so I’m going to show you how I do it – and how forgiving yourself leads to success.

– Letting go & moving forward.

The first step in forgiving yourself for a past mistake is place yourself in a calm environment – one without distractions. You need to be in a calm, introspective mood in order to reflect on what happened and let it go. From there, you pinpoint the source of what caused the succession of dominoes to fall. The intent isn’t to leave the blame on yourself nor place it on someone else’s shoulders. It’s to realize that everything happens for a reason. That no one is perfect. Then, you take the key lessons from your mistakes and you move forward. The best part about mistakes is that you grow a little wiser and acquire more experience and tools for success in your arsenal. As I’ve said many times before, fail fast (not to linger, but to learn fast). Keep in mind that this is not always an overnight process so you shouldn’t feel pressured to be ok in a day’s time.

– Focus on the positive & visualization.

Cleanse yourself and your mind of your previous pessimistic thoughts and focus on yourself both mentally and physically. As you go about these tasks, constantly try to see the positive aspects of yourself, your wonderful qualities, and what makes you a good person. My favorite way of doing this is visualizing myself in all the situations that I want to manifest in my life and knowing that I deserve it. If that’s financial freedom, then maybe it’s seeing yourself in a regal closet full of all the designer shoes and handbags you’ve ever dreamt of – or driving that hundred thousand dollar lambo. If it’s becoming a respected blogger, then perhaps you see yourself at fashion week, surrounded by street style photographers. Believe that you deserve all these things because you’re a hard worker, you have a great personality, and you’re likable. Visualization works because it’s empowering and makes you feel good – and when you feel good, anything is possible.

– Attract strong relationships with a positive attitude.

Self-forgiveness is also integral to building strong relationships. As success doesn’t happen without a team behind you (or with you), you need to have a confident, positive attitude in order to attract those who can help pave your way for success. People are naturally drawn to those who are positive in energy and outlook. So, always make yourself one of those individuals. You’ll be surprised by the kind of connections you find with a change in attitude.

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post How Forgiving Yourself Leads to Massive Success appeared first on Zanita Studio.


How To Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Bloggers

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One of the most difficult things about being in this industry is that everyone is really freakin good…

You’re basically dealing with the cream of the crop and that makes it hard to keep your eyes in your lane. In my early days, I always found it difficult not to compare my work to those whose content I was engaging with. And at times, even found myself unintentionally copying. I strongly feel that this is a struggle most people combat in the early stages of any creative endeavor. Stay committed enough and you’ll eventually develop your own style.

I wanted to bring this topic to light because I know the noise today makes it even harder to concentrate on yourself. So, I’m sharing a few things I did that might work for you – here’s how to stop comparing yourself to other bloggers:

How To Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Bloggers | Zanita.com

Get off the Internet

Pay attention to your emotions. When the detrimental thief of happiness lurks its way in, you can usually tell because you’re mind is starting to wander off and question why you’re not good enough – and why someone else gets all these amazing experiences while you’re stuck with whatever banality you’re in. That’s cue to get off line and live in the present. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing as long as you get off. My favorite things to do are read books or write!

Reflect on your journey

When I really feel like crap, I find that physically seeing how far I’ve come is always an eye-opener because it’s proof that everyone has to find their way – and that I have made personal progress. I used to compare myself a ton in the realm of photography, but a quick glance at my 2013-2017 archives is a real pick-me-up and motivation to keep going. It also helps during this process to set goals about where you want to be… A silly thing I’ve started doing is drawing all the things I want to manifest in my life on my iPad Pro – yes, I know, silly but it works!

Get off Instagram and Get on Pinterest

I realize now that I get different vibes from different platforms. If I’m starting to compare myself to someone else, it’s usually because I’m looking at Instagram. So if I need real inspiration without the guilt, I get on Pinterest. For whatever reason, Pinterest feels more inspirational to look at. I’m a serial pinner… Feel free to tag along here!

At the end of the day, remember that comparison is the end to all the good things you have going on in your life. Be cognizant of your mind and your heart and guard them so that you’re not selling your happy reality for someone else’s make-believe. These days, I’d much prefer to be happy for someone’s success – and use it as a catalyst to get myself there.

How do you deal with comparison?

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post How To Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Bloggers appeared first on Zanita Studio.

5 Essential Apps for Bloggers and Freelancers

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I’m going on Month 5 of freelancing…

And it still feels surreal at times that I’m doing exactly what I set out to do. I learned real quick that even though I’m essentially doing the same thing I did before, it gets crazy when you try juggling it for multiple clients. The key to staying sane and creative while meeting your deadlines is staying organized. And my favorite, most effective way for doing that is through apps! Many of these apps I never used before just because I could remember whatever I needed to with handwritten lists. I tried that in my first month of freelancing and it was a complete mess! I learned quickly that apps are the way to go whether you need to create novel assets for social media or managing your to-dos.

If you’re having the same problem, give these a go – 5 essential apps for bloggers and freelancers:

Essential Apps for Bloggers and Freelancers | Zanita.com

#1 Trello

I had heard of Trello many times before but never gave it a second thought because I though Google calendars was sufficient. Wrong. The beauty of Trello is that all changes and updates are done in real-time so that everyone who’s a part of the board sees it. My issue with Google calendars was that it was hard to fit everything in one little block without multiple, tedious clicks. Trello allows you to organize your tasks into lists, which can then be broken down into cards, and grouped into labels. It’s also super collaborative; you can leave comments for someone who would then receive a notification for it. This has been a game changer because you literally have everything in once place!

#2 Wunderlist

I was always using Notes on my iPhone to make lists of all the things I needed to do. The problem with that is that when I’m done with a task, I have to delete each line item. Sure, this doesn’t take a ton of time, but it’s tedious and I’d rather be doing something productive in those few minutes. I came across Wunderlist via NotJessFashion and it has been instrumental in keeping me in check! Basically, you create to-do lists and can easily check them off. Easy peasy!

#3 Sketch

So this is not an app for organization but rather creativity. Every major blogger has been stepping up their IG stories game lately, which means I need to too. I love using sketch to make doodles and handwritten words on images before uploading them to the Gram. It’s so much fun!

#4 Venmo

Everyone knows Venmo, right? It’s the easiest way to send money to and fro different accounts. I know it’s basically the same thing as PayPal, but I hate how PayPal takes a percentage of your invoice when you’re transacting as a business. Technically, I’m not an established business, so I’m not pleased with this because every few dollars add up! The workaround is Venmo because I can still manage cashflows and present it to my accountant when it’s tax time (i.e. now).

# Shoeboxed

I sometimes feel like my receipts are going to be the death of me! It’s insanely hard to stay organized when I’m traveling – all this paper trail ends up being a complete mess and I even lose some along the way! The solution? Shoeboxed Receipt Tracker. Expense reports have never been easier! I’ll be headed to NYC, London and Italy in about two weeks, so follow my journey HERE. This app couldn’t have come at a better time!!
 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

The post 5 Essential Apps for Bloggers and Freelancers appeared first on Zanita Studio.

3 Important Things to Remember About Happiness

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What does it mean to be happy?

In light of Valentine’s Day, I wanted to bring up the topic of happiness as it’s a day to celebrate the love between two people, but what about when you’re single? It doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate or be happy on Valentine’s Day.

We all see happiness in a different light. Maybe to you, happiness is the comfort of another body. Maybe it’s money and status – or it could be family and friends. If you’re struggling to feel comfort as we inch closer to this revered holiday, here are 3 things to remember about happiness.

#1 Being happy doesn’t require a significant other.

Just now opening up about this, but I went through separation recently, and I’ll be the first to assure you that you do not need another person to feel happy. You are whole as a single individual – and in order to experience deep, profound happiness, you need to be content as you are. It always fails to rely on someone who may or may not be able to meet your standards or expectations.

3 Important Things to Remember About Happiness | Zanita.comI always feel like this takes a bit of self-therapy especially if you’ve recently gone through separation. You’ve spent so much of your time with another person that they essentially become a part of your identity. When they’re gone, you no longer know how to spend  your time alone. I would encourage you to pick up a new hobby or do all the things you have been putting off. You’ll be in for a surprise.

#2 Physical things don’t bring happiness.

Indulgent gifts like roses, chocolates, and wine are great – but usually only in the moment. I consider alone time golden – this is time I can use for a nice, warm bubble bath or to get deep into a book. That being said, if you’re in need of a serious delicacy, you can always treat yourself to something pleasurable. Remember that gifts don’t always require giving from other people. You can give back to yourself.

#3 Happiness doesn’t dwell in the past.

We usually have a bag habit of dwelling in the past. We remember how amazing certain moments of a relationship felt and we long for those aspects. However, we’re usually more attached to the “idea” of was happening rather than the reality of it.

If you never learn to let go of the past, you can never truly be happy with the future. Be done with it and get rid of the baggage. Many times, you’ll go back to the relationship only to find out that you never really wanted it. It’s a natural cycle for us as creatures of habit.
 
If you’re struggling with happiness this Valentine’s Day, I hope these three points brought some level of comfort! We’re in this together 🙂

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

You Should Also Read:

5 Things I’m Giving Up for a Happier Life
Why We Should Stop Seeking Happiness
7 Ways To Dress For Happiness

The post 3 Important Things to Remember About Happiness appeared first on Zanita Studio.

5 Steps to Turn Your Passion for Blogging into a Business

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Every time I think about the influencer industry, I feel so moved emotionally and mentally…

How can something that so small and passion-driven turn into a fully scaled business? It seemed like yesterday that I was devising a plan to break into the business of blogging, but after SEVEN long years here I am… I still have fellow bloggers approach me time to time and ask how I do it… How do you pitch yourself? How are you able to get clients?

I’ve spent some time evaluating myself these last few days – wondering if I’m doing anything particularly different from my peers. I’ve concluded that we can all learn something from one another, so I’m going to show you how to turn your passion for blogging into a business the way I did.

Step 1: Get smart.

So you had that thought (you wanna turn your passion for blogging into a business). Your next step should be taking action to get there. For me, it was practicing my writing skills, learning photography, learning photo-editing, and then blogging for myself. No one paid me any attention for a long ass time. Finally, one day, when I felt that I was capable and ready, I made my move. Remember that it’s not about instant gratification. It’s about patience and the work you’re willing to do when no one’s watching.

Step 2: Gain experience.

Gaining experience can mean various things – it could be working for yourself to achieve the results you want, and then using it to validate your credibility to brands or other bloggers. It could be interning under a mega-blogger to learn the ins and outs of the industry. However, I want to caution you that mega-bloggers are apprehensive about working with “aspiring bloggers” since your intentions can seem doubtful. In an industry that’s heavily dependent on connections and numbers, it makes perfect sense that a blogger would be hesitant to share their information with someone who could simply be after those things. When I worked exclusively with Zanita, it was never about what she can do for me or how she can help me grow. It was all about what I can do to elevate her and help her grow. That mentality has taken me far in my work today.

Step 3: Achieve measurable results.

Whatever you do, make sure you’re monitoring it because words mean nothing without measurable results. You can’t tell a brand you can deliver content across an engaged audience if you have 10k followers on Instagram with only 300 likes (nothing wrong with those numbers by the way). But think about how much more amazing it would look if you had 10k followers with 1200 likes consistently. There’s a big difference. If you can show proven growth or engagement over X period of time, sell it! Numbers get people talking.

Step 4: Strategize.

One of the things I’m struggling with right now is vision. I’m so focused on tasks that I never have time to strategize the direction I want to head in. Strategizing serves the same purpose as goals. You can’t scale without looking ahead. Make an effort every now and then to think about where you’re headed and where you want to be. Readjust every few steps of the way to make sure the two align.

Step 5: Don’t give up.

It’s only been five months but even I have normal conversations with myself if it’s time to just throw up the white flag and head back to the safe haven of corporate. Running a business is tough and there so many moving aspects involved that NEVER seem to stop moving. I know it seems like a glamorous life but on a regular basis, I feel like I have no life. That being said, the most important part of these steps is to never give up.

What else would you guys like to hear about regarding this business?

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

You Should Also Read:

Top Skills Big Bloggers Are Looking for Right Now
5 Great Reasons to Start a Blog This Year
How to Make it As A Blogger in 2018

The post 5 Steps to Turn Your Passion for Blogging into a Business appeared first on Zanita Studio.

How to Stand Out By Blogging With a Purpose

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Just a few years ago, the prospect of becoming a full-time, financially stable blogger or influencer was absolutely ludicrous. However, the industry seemed to take off, opening up so many opportunities for young individuals to have the ability to work for themselves and to be their own entrepreneur as long as you had access to the internet. Clearly, there is a universally wide appeal to a new age career such as this. Thus, fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogs started cropping up all over.

So how does one stand out in such a saturation of blogs? One word: Purpose.

Today, we’re covering how you can stand out by blogging with a purpose.

How to Stand Out by Blogging With a Purpose | Zanita.comBlog with Intention

If you are noticing a stagnation in your blog engagement and traffic, maybe it is best to take a step back and start looking from another angle. Go back to your roots and think back to the reason why you started it in the first place. Was it to make money? Have a creative outlet? Connect with like individuals?

Obviously, your purpose back then could be different from your purpose now. That is completely okay. However, it is important to address whether or not you are fulfilling that purpose. It might be hard to believe, but readers can sense if there is passion written behind the words of a blog post. If you are simply writing hollowly with no real goal, it can be quite obvious. A reader is much more likely to stay and engage if they can sense your passion and excitement. This can only come across if you have reached self-realization of your own blog intentions.

Infuse Knowledge

To be quite honest, there are only so many ways one can talk about how to style boyfriend jeans. One of the best ways to mark yourself as individual is to change up the conversation. Not saying you should completely avoid styling posts but perhaps find a way to make it worthwhile for your reader.

For example, not only teach your readers how to style boyfriends jeans, but also explain to them why you love them, how they make you feel good and boosted your confidence, where you can purchase them, what occasions they are best for, etc. Your readers will remember all the knowledge they gained from your post and will certainly come back for more.

Build a Connection

After you have established your purpose and supplied your readers with new knowledge, it is also important to establish a connection with your audience. The most successful bloggers and influencers have managed to build an online community where his or her readers trust that individual. Your goal should be to have your readers think of you as friends or confidants. The best way to do this is to blog as genuinely and organically as possible. Share personal anecdotes, reply to comments and engage purposefully.

Should you follow these steps and blog with a sense of purpose, I have no doubt your blog should see an increase in engagement and readership. These are truly the fundamentals to building a successful online presence as an influencer or a blogger. Above all, just be yourself and others will surely flock to you.

 

xo,
Susan
Follow me – Blog Instagram Bloglovin YouTube Facebook SHOP

 

Image Source Credits – LE JOLIE – Susan
 

You Should Also Read:

Branding Guide for Beginner Bloggers
4 Key Soft Skills Every Blogger Needs to be Successful
Top 5 Blog Tips in 2 Years Under Zanita

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