ARE YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH?

For some people, knowing what direction to take is made obvious to them at a young age. For others, the tug of war between choosing a career path and accepting any job offer [to pay their bills] is a never ending battle! The struggle can be so real, but, it doesn't have to be. If you often say to your loved ones, "I don't know what I want to do; I can't decide", or you feel a bit lost when it comes to deciding what you want to do, the following might help.

SEPARATE YOUR LIKES and DISLIKES
This is the old school method of whittling down your key interests. Take pen to paper, draw a line down the centre [creating 2 columns] and title one section 'Likes' and the other 'Dislikes' then fill in accordingly. Think generally; in terms of life, not jobs.

CLARIFY WHAT MATTERS TO YOU
The 'Dislikes' section is what you will no longer accept - both personally and professionally going forward, so, take note! From your 'Likes' column, choose your 2 favourites and write a short paragraph about why you're most passionate about each one. Then, write a new list of careers and jobs [you can create roles for yourself too] that focus on, or incorporate, those particular interests. Once finished, pick the one that aligns with you most.

SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS/EXPERTISE
What jobs can you do, or what opportunities are/might be available within your chosen field? Create a portfolio of experience in line with what it is you have decided you want to do. If this isn't possible, draft an introduction letter and invite the recipient to *meet with you at a place and time that is mutually convenient. Prepare thoroughly [know exactly what your objective is] and attend with enthusiasm and optimism. Send out as many invitations as possible. Somebody will agree to see you!

*Make sure you tell a loved where you will be, with whom and at what time, etc.

STICK WITH THE PURSUIT OF ONE PASSION TO BEGIN WITH
Sometimes it's better not to juggle too many goals and instead focus on one, thus allowing yourself the necessary time to see it through. Seek out the companies, businesses, etc., whose work appeals to you [based on how closely that relates to what it is you want to do] and find out the name of the person, or people, you can reach out to for an opportunity which, be aware, might initially be on a voluntary basis despite any experience.

AN ALTERNATIVE OPTION
Once you're clear on what you want to do, think about starting your own business! I'm no expert in that area, but, DO YOUR RESEARCH. As per your key interests, could you run your own company? How can you do that? What will you need? Where should you start? What support is available to you? Can you apply for funding?

I say this to you a lot, but, I'm going to tell you again!! You've NOTHING TO LOSE and potentially EVERYTHING TO GAIN so, GO FOR IT! Take a risk...

There's an extremely thin line between chasing money and pursuing your dreams. Your health should be as much of a priority as keeping a roof over your head - the stress of a job you don't particularly want to do could prove to be detrimental. Your time on this earth is not to be spent working just to pay bills, more so if the job you're doing is unfulfilling! The life you want is within reach, keep pushing.

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.

SOUTHEND VIBES

I cannot quite put my finger on what it is about Southend-on-sea that I love so much, but, I truly believe it makes for such a great day out! I'd go quite often when I was a child and still like to visit as an adult, to be honest.

Adventure Island is the main attraction, I'd say, with rides, places to eat, an arcade and a purpose built indoor activities centre. It's quite exciting, especially for kids. I recently took a colleague there as she had never been before. To say, "she loved it" wouldn't come close to just how much she enjoyed herself, although, due to having motion sickness, she was sick a few times!

Most of the rides are quite full on, but, The Dragon Claw and Rage give you an intense, stomach churning experience!! Both have almost everybody screaming for the entire duration, LOL! One is a super fast roller coaster with a brutal drop and the other delivers a very quick succession of upside down and twisty spins. Avoid these if you don't have a strong stomach, real talk!!

On the Island there is a beach and, although nothing like the gorgeous feel of Brighton beach, it's quite nice to sit there for a while with an ice-cream and just take in the views. I would suggest you don't go in the sea because, it's absolutely vile [filled with discarded rubbish, debris, etc.] and smells awful! That said, many people do opt for a little dip, or swim.

Entry to the Island is free, the 'adventure' comes at a cost, but, it's super affordable, cheaper if you book online and the bands permit unlimited use of the rides throughout your visit. Other attractions, e.g. Sea Life, boat rides, etc., come at an additional cost but, again, they're super affordable. There is definitely something for everyone and laughter is guaranteed!

Add Southend to your list of places to visit in the UK [during summer], if you haven't already, and make sure you check out the travel route!

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.

LONDON'S LITTLE VENICE!

I'm going to keep this post short and sweet, much like the place in question.

Many years ago, I heard the words "Little Venice" and literally thought it was somewhere abroad; perhaps in Italy. I quickly learned that it's but a stone throw away [from where I lived at the time] and somewhere everyone should most definitely visit especially because, it's free entry and anything you want to do, or indulge in, is super affordable.

Warwick Avenue station, on the Bakerloo line, brings you to the entrance of Little Venice and following the path takes you on a stunning walk where many cute boats sit afloat a river that is also home to some swans.

With scenic views, Little Venice is very Zen. You might feel as though you're actually on vacation, most certainly if you visit between July and September! It definitely gives you holiday vibes. As well as places to eat and history to take in, there are other hidden gems within it which is most exciting when discovering them for the first time. 

My favourite is the river boat restaurant named 'Daisy Green' [formerly Darcie Green]. It's stylish, comfortable, modern, colourful and has a very relaxed vibe. They have a bar within the restaurant too! 

Little Venice has become one of my favourite spots in London to visit and, if you haven't already gone to explore, make sure you check it out during the summer! 

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

Photography by Charley Jai.

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.

TIPS FOR STAYING POSITIVE

There was a time when I was a right misery, real talk! I am now Mrs Optimistic; I try my very best to see the possibilities in every challenge and to maintain a cheery disposition no matter what. Wait a minute!! I am not one to avoid reality. I simply CHOOSE to keep a great mood, stay upbeat, happy and with a consistently grateful heart irrespective of what I might be going through. But, how?

INTENTIONAL ACTIONS
I often remind myself of the many reasons I have to be thankful. I then say aloud at least 2 of those things and keep them at the front of my mind. In addition to that I give myself a reality check. E.G. - "I am happy and grateful to be alive and have a really cool job. But, nothing lasts forever, so, I need to positively embrace all that I've been blessed with while I still can". When you think good, you really do live good. I also ensure I am clear with myself about why I am doing whatever it is I have chosen to do. Moving with intent is a game changer!

DEDICATION
Without committing to change it won't happen so, I make a note of the benefits I feel and see from walking with a positive mindset [especially where my anxiety is concerned] and I also tell myself, "if the effort isn't consistent the results will be non existent". Change is inevitable. If we fight it, we may hurt ourselves, or those around us, far worse than if we just accepted every turning point with grace and commitment.

HEALTHY OUTLOOK
I think almost everything is about reaction. I know only too well, from experience, that it will always serve me better to look for the good in any bad situation I may face. I do incredibly well, if I do say so myself, at finding a positive in any negative situation! Sitting with misery makes you more miserable which is defeatist.

SELFLESS DAILY GOAL
To make somebody smile/laugh is a big deal for me! It makes me so chuffed to know I've added joy to another person's day and in doing so, I add to my own happiness.

HEARTY COMPANY
We all know that the people we keep around us will automatically have an effect on our vibe. Their attitude/energy will pour into us whether we like it or not. The vibes are contagious, so, I only allow myself to be around those with the same, or a similar, frame of mind; people who make a choice to be good, kind, caring, etc.

SELF-WORTH
Far from being arrogant, I am so comfortable in my skin and confident with who I am, where I've been, all that I have overcome and everything in between. I know my value and I know that it deserves to be matched!! In all areas of my life, not allowing myself to settle for anything less that I believe I am worthy of helps to sustain my positive approach to life. It's ridiculously important that one learns to maintain a healthy, respectable, honest relationship with themselves.

THE RIGHT PLANS
It's definitely a priority for me to have things to look forward to on a weekly, if not daily, basis - that could be a dinner date with friends, time spent in nature [on a walk], a blog shoot, spa day, exercise... Anything that will bring me joy!

You're one choice away from living the life you actually want! Go get your positivity on and watch how quickly you start to feel and think in a way that has you living a more fulfilled and rewarding life!! 

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.