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  • Business, Home, Lifestyle

    The Minimalist Mompreneur. How To Juggle a Home, Business and Family Life

    Sunday, May 9th is Mother’s Day, both here in Switzerland as well as in many other countries worldwide. If you’re a mom yourself, you know how unique a mother’s love is. There is nothing like it. Parenting is the greatest gift of all, and the biggest challenge of a lifetime. Playing on repeat every single day.

    Adding a business to the family equation may be crazy, but my family is the reason I decided to start my business in the first place. I wanted to be able to spend more time with the kids during the week and be able to be a part of their daily life, like my own mother used to be when I grew up . As a child I wanted my mom to go to work like “all the other moms” but isn’t it funny how we may have disliked parts of our childhood as children but we grow up to love them as adults? For the past few years being a mompreneur, which is short for mom and entrepreneur, I have through trial and error, sweat and tears, become both painfully and happily aware of what works and what doesn’t in terms of combining these huge roles. Voilà, I present you my biggest learnings and why becoming minimalist has been the best solution ever.

    Work less, work smarter

    There’s only so much we can do in 24 hours. Lowering expectations and prioritising becomes essential. What do you need to get done daily in the business and in your home?

    List max. 5 realistic business tasks that move your business a step forward. Then list all the necessary (no, not the nice to haves!) things that need to happen in the home to get through the day. Share some of the tasks with your partner (mine cooks), if you are able to, hire help and/or delegate some of the home chores. Order your groceries online, get help with meal planning or cleaning, and only do laundry once a week. Whatever works for you. We don’t need to be superwomen, even if that would be super cool..!

    Minimise your schedule

    Minimise your game and plan ahead; daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly. Schedule your day the day before and make sure you’re able to finish the tasks you’ve set for the day, even if it’s only one or two business tasks. Otherwise you will forever feel behind and not enough on any level. This took me a long time to feel at peace with.

    However, every time I minimised my to-do list, I felt better and was able to accomplish what I really needed to steer the business in the right direction. And it freed up valuable time to spend with the kids in the afternoons. It’s certainly not always 100% undistracted time, but moms are only human, and we do the best we can. Always.

    Becoming minimalist

    Becoming minimalist was nothing I ever strived for. After having trained with Marie Kondo to become a KonMari Consultant a few years ago, my personal minimalism grew, developed and thrived within and beyond me. And maybe my minimalism actually is something I define in my own way? But it most certainly isn’t about depriving oneself of anything or owning only 2 pairs of shoes or 5 books.

    On the contrary, minimalism for me is all about being present, authentic, raw and real, with yourself and people around you. It enables you to deepen your relationships. Knowing what your true core values are and focusing on what matters most in your life. Being surrounded only with the things you love. My minimalism is all about curating a minimal, simple lifestyle with maximal purpose. It creates positive changes and makes life solid, satisfying, rich, easy and open for more true connectivity, love and experiences. 

    Simplicity is key when ruhelena zachariassen joynning a business and managing a home and family at the same time. It’s a little bit like pushing the reset button of your life and getting a whole new, fresh start. Your whole life and mindset changes. You become more aware of what makes you happy and joyful, as well as what your kids and loved ones need from you. Start with letting go of things that no longer serve you, may it be physical belongings, social media, attitudes or relationships. Say no to everything that doesn’t take you closer to your ideal lifestyle or where you aspire to go in life.

    Lagom

    means not too much and not too little, in my native language Swedish. It’s the perfect definition of how any busy mom is able to juggle all these roles we’re supposed to carry on our shoulders. You don’t need to be anything else than you already are, lagom is the new now.

    When you feel loved you have more strength than you know

    As moms we tend to juggle so many roles that we’re all worth medals for just that! If you want to care for your busy mom friends, entrepreneurs or not, make sure to send them a text, ask them how they are, take them out for a walk, offer them a cup, or bring them fresh flowers for no reason. If they struggle maybe you can offer a helping hand with their kids or cook a meal, or even better, take them out for a drink. No matter how small the deed, it might make a world of a difference.

    Yet, despite all the struggles, we wouldn’t want to have it any other way, would we?! The same kids make us totally lose it as well as hold it all together. For love.

    Small kids shower you with their love in return, while older ones might be turning their teenage backs at you for a while. Whatever life throws at you, love never ceases to exist.

    Happy Mother’s Day to all of you Super Moms out there!

     This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home and Lifestyle Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Family, Home, Lifestyle

    KonMari your relationship

    The moment you choose to discover and accept your most authentic self, magic happens. You will liberate yourself, peel off the inessential, and become free to fully own your life. So what does it have to do with your relationship? Well, it all starts with loving yourself. Without self love, there is no capacity to genuinely love another.

    Remember, when we were still able to travel by plane….? Put on the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others. Or, putting it in KonMari and decluttering terms: you can’t KonMari anyone else before you’ve KonMari’d yourself.

    When it comes to intimate relationships, knowing what does and does not spark joy isn’t as simple as it is for objects, but the KonMari philosophy is the same.

    MARIE KONDO

    Introspection – happiness comes from within

    Taking care of your inner world is crucial for achieving happiness. According to positive psychology researcher Sonya Lybomirsky, “happiness is the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, combined with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile”. External factors also shape the way we think and feel about life, ourselves, and our partner, especially now, having lived with a global pandemic for a year.

    So what is the reason we should look deep within ourselves first before looking after our partner? It’s not uncommon that we project our feelings and see our own flaws in others, resulting in unfair criticism. Yeah, most of us have done it at some point in time. So go back, look yourself in the mirror and ask yourself if there are areas within you needing some (more) decluttering, love and care. Here’s how:

    Take care of yourself

    Spend time in nature. Exercise regularly. Eat healthy and nutritious food. Make time for yourself and spend time doing what you love, also alone. Be grateful for what you have and exercise mindfulness in a way that resonates with you. Rest and sleep enough, it makes all the difference for your mood and mindset (especially if you have kids!). A healthy body leads to a healthy mind which also reflects in your relationship.

    Detox your life from anything that doesn’t serve you

    Just like you would KonMari your clothes and any other belongings, take a look at all areas in your life with the same spark joy mentality in mind. Surround yourself and your partner only with people that support, uplift, and nourish you. Assess your home, health, relationships, purpose and work life, finances, commitments, lifestyle, consumption, fun, and values. Letting go of anything that drains you of energy, toxic even, will create more space for you and your partner to live with less stress and enjoy more tranquility and quality of life.

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Invite fresh joy into your relationship with these 4 tips

    Whether you feel like embarking on a joint decluttering journey or just wish to communicate better make sure to discuss your vision, ideal lifestyle, and common goals. Listen, learn and care about your partner’s dreams, hopes and wishes – you might be surprised at what you hear and it might just be the motivator you need to start that long due project.

    1# Prioritise by creating uninterrupted date space in your diary

    No more excuses. In other words, ruthlessly declutter your calendar from insignificant commitments that you simply don’t enjoy but feel you need to attend for various reasons. You actually need to invest time in your relationship and prioritise your partner if you want your relationship to work! Schedule a regular weekly date, whether you stay home for take away dinner or take a walk around the block. Take turns in organising something fun for each other, be creative. Try a new hobby together. Make it simple, especially now when options are limited anyway, it doesn’t need to be complicated to spend quality time together, as long as it’s without any distractions.

    #2 Declutter your bedroom

    Maybe you would be keen on more romance but your partner’s clothes are piled up all over the bedroom? The bedside tables full of visual clutter? You may not even realise how much this affects you subconsciously by increasing your stress levels. If you want your bedroom to feel calm and be an inviting place where you can rest and recharge the most powerful thing you can do for yourselves is to tidy up. Fold that laundry, clear those surfaces and wash those sheets and bedding on a regular basis. Make your bedroom your own, fresh haven of harmony and happiness.


    #3 Unplug from your tech devices

    The wasted time scrolling on social media is never coming back to you. Maybe those messages and emails can wait until tomorrow? One of the most appreciative and caring things you can do for your partner is to turn off your devices at a certain time each day (unless you’re expecting an important call/message) and be available and present in the moment.

    #4 Surprise your partner

    Do you know what your partner likes? What makes him/her tick? Surprise your partner from time to time by doing just that. Whether it’s cooking an amazing meal, hugging, kissing, wearing sexy underwear, or leaving hidden love notes for your partner to find. Whatever you do, never take your partner for granted, stay positive and grateful, always. That is truly attractive.

     This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    8 steps to curating a wardrobe you love. Top tips from stylist Monika Mueller.

    Covid, lockdowns and many of us mainly working from home has immensely changed the way we dress and show up every day. However, we can and should get up every day, get out of our pyjamas and choose to show up, as if we weren’t staying home all day. In addition, it has a massive impact on our mental wellbeing if we choose to dress with joyful pieces of clothing from a curated, well organised wardrobe, and act as if every day is a fantastic opportunity to shine (which it is)!

    Top tips for an organised, joyful and curated closet

    If you’ve followed my blog posts and KonMari tips over the past year your wardrobe must be decluttered and perfectly organised by now! And if it’s not, don’t worry, here are some simple tips to bring joy and more order to it!

    • RUTHLESSLY EDIT
      I hate to tell you this, but your wardrobe will never be perfect, ever. We are all human, and we will continue to make mistakes and shopping errors and our bodies will change. And that’s OK! Just make sure to continuously declutter and edit what you own. The perfect timing is always right before a season change.
    • LET GO OF EVERYTHING THAT DOESN’T FIT
      It’s finally time to let go of those unfitting items that are at the back of the closet waiting for a different body shape. The truth is, you will feel so much better when all you have in your closet sparks joy, has a perfect fit and is comfortable to wear!
    • DONATE, SELL AND GIVE AWAY ITEMS OFTEN
      It will make you feel so good to give things away to a new home, where they can be reused and appreciated.
    • USE MATCHING HANGERS
      This tip will make your closet smile back at you every time you open it. My favourites are the thin velvet ones, which keep slippery items in place, as well as look gorgeous and tidy.
    • FILE FOLD
      Folding makes such a big difference when it comes to smaller items. Try file folding at least with your jeans, sweaters, t-shirts and underwear. You will notice how much calmer your drawers/shelves will look and you will easily be able to see all your favourites at a glance! And you don’t need to go out and buy specific boxes or containers for your folded items. Use what you’ve got in your home (shoe boxes are great!) or let the items stand alone on a shelf, supported by other clothing items.
    • ADD A LITTLE SOMETHING YOU LOVE
      Whether it’s a picture of a loved one, a drawing your child gave you or your wedding shoes – display them so that you get a smile on your lips every time you open your closet.

    Opening up your closet should be like arriving at a really good party where everyone you see is someone you like.

    AMY FINE COLLINS

    8 Top stylist tips from Monika Mueller on how to refresh your wardrobe

     

    I teamed up with the lovely Monika Mueller, founder of Signature Five, a personal stylist service in Zurich and asked her all about how we can style our current wardrobe with a little more happiness and sparkle in these challenging times. Enjoy her tips!

     

    Tip 1: How do I know which colours suit me best?

    MM: I’m sure you’ve experienced walking into a store, loving a certain colour and when you try it on it either makes your skin glow and radiate or it does the opposite, makes your skin look dull and causes shadows.  Colour reflects differently on different skin tones and characteristics.  Having been trained by Colour Me Beautiful for every skin tone there is a spectrum of colours that work best.  What I mean by that is colours that create balance and harmony and compliment your skin tone.

    So, for example, if you have a warm skin tone, colours that would work best for you are shades which have a yellow base.  If you have a cooler skin tone, colours with a blue base would work better for you.

    Tip 2: What is the best way to determine my own unique style?

    MM: I always like to think how do you want to turn up in the world? How do you envision yourself? That is the starting point. Because our style should encapsulate the best version of ourselves and tell everyone what we’re about.

    We all have a certain style we gravitate towards, even if people say they don’t have style, they do but maybe it’s not the style they would like. As there is so much choice now a days and also lots of information on what we should be wearing, we can get lost in having a style that truly represents US.

    With my clients, I do a style personality test which identifies what overall style appeals to them. And another important aspect I look at is my client’s lifestyle.

    If for example you love Meghan Markle and Victoria Beckham’s style but you are a stay-at-home mom with little kids, this look wouldn’t fit into your daily life but you can take inspiration from this.  You probably want to feel more put together, have clothes that are flattering and good quality and look chic during the day. So, I would incorporate elements of this to make you feel good but also have clothes that are practical for your lifestyle. As mentioned before I also look at what are my clients overall goals and I make sure their outer appearance represents this.

    Tip 3: How would you advise people working from home to dress in both a comfy way but also appropriate for online meetings?

    MM: Well, I have two free handy guides; one giving suggestions on what to wear for video conferencing and the other one is Work From Home outfit formulas.  I also share tips on setting the stage for your video conferencing as you always want to make sure you are giving off a professional image even if you are working from home.

    Tip 4: I have a closet full of clothes but nothing inspires me. Is there a way to combine the items differently or should I just discard what doesn’t speak to me?

    MM: If your closet is full and you’re not utilizing more than 80% of it then I would definitely do a wardrobe detox and get rid of any clothes that aren’t serving you. However, prior to doing that, think of it as a project. When you have a project, you start with a plan and what you want the end result to be. The same thing applies to your style. Think about what kind of style do you want? How do you want your mornings to be when getting ready? And how do you want to turn up?

    The second step, get your style juices going. Getting some inspiration of style and clothes helps with ultimately seeing what type of garments we want to see hanging in our wardrobe. I’m a big fan of Pinterest.

    I would also experiment with your clothes. We tend to wear our clothes the same way, again you can use Pinterest for outfit inspiration.  Try combining your clothes differently and play around with accessories.  Just adding a belt can make the world of difference.

    Tip 5: How can I make smarter and more mindful choices when shopping?

    MM: Buy with purpose and intention. Basically, before you hit the shops think about what you need.  I always recommend keeping a list in your wallet of items you would like. So next time you hit the shops, you just whip out the list stopping you from making any impulse purchases.

    Another handy tip when buying something ask yourself ‘can I style this two different ways with items in my wardrobe?’  If the answer is no, then the chances of you getting the most wears out of this item is slim.

    And for staple pieces or pieces that you know will live in your wardrobe for a while I would say buy the best quality you can afford. To be mindful and to shop smarter always think less is more, and quality over quantity.

    Tip 6: Would you recommend having a capsule wardrobe, i.e. having a few selected items that all work together?

    MM: For many when using the word ‘capsule’ they automatically think omg this means I can only have a few clothes in my wardrobe on rotation.

    For me what’s important is that you utilize your wardrobe to the fullest. You could have lots of clothes or you could just have a few clothes, but what’s important is that you get the most wear out of your clothes and have a wardrobe that you can easily mix and match.  I recommend having a functional cohesive wardrobe whatever the size. When you have this, getting ready every morning becomes easy & effortless.

    Tip 7: How can I spice up my current wardrobe with little investment?

    MM: Accessories – just adding accessories can make the world of difference and also add versatility into your wardrobe. Another thing that can spice up your wardrobe but depending on your style personality and lifestyle is a statement blazer or jacket. Just having a well-fitted blazer or a beautiful jacket can instantly up-level your style. Also having variation in shoes can dress up and dress down any outfit.

    Tip 8: If I want to get myself a new spring wardrobe – how shall I choose what staple items to buy?

    MM: I would firstly look at what you already have in your wardrobe and what you feel is missing. I would also look for inspiration, again Pinterest is great for this.  Even magazines or influencers etc.

    I personally don’t like to give a generic list of staple pieces, because it should be dependent on your style personality, and lifestyle, and clothes that flatter your body. By getting some inspiration and seeing what you would get the most wear out of, these are the items I would say buy.

    Try not to go for what’s on-trend unless it’s something that you really like and know you can pull it off. Otherwise, I would invest in pieces that you know you will wear for many springs.

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    Tidy goals 2021: 6 tips to start small and grow big

    I’ve never been a fan of new year’s resolutions. Two weeks into the new year I had usually already failed them all and the mountain of guilt grew higher. It’s a little bit like being a cat or a dog person. You either have a preference or you don’t. And it’s also totally OK not to like either! Right now social media is bursting with classes and webinars and challenges to make your life great again, and all is to start now! Covid or no Covid, I find that all this January fuzz has way too much pressure, which nobody needs more of. However, I LOVE long term intentional goal setting and making mindful plans for the new year. Allowing it to take time and implementing tiny changes at a pace to suit yourself and your family is key to sustainable success.

    Join us on the journey to tiny lifestyle changes – HAPPY & TIDIER NEW YEAR! 

    Up your home game, one tiny step at a time

    It looks like we’ll be spending a lot more time at home until we have this pandemic under control. Let’s focus on what we are able to control – OUR OWN HOME. You can choose to make small intentional changes with a big impact: Up your game (but do not try to up it to perfectionism!)

     

    #Tip 1: Start your day with an accomplishment: air the bedroom and make the bed

    This may sound too easy and self-evident, but believe me, it’s not. It has a big impact on you if you start the day with accomplishment, positivity, and intention. 

    Opening the windows, letting the day with fresh air in, thinking of (or write down) a few things you’re grateful for and eventually making the bed is the first set of activities for your morning. Your first accomplishment. Make these activities into your 5-10 min meditation in the fresh air and think mindfully about your day and what you wish to get done. Remember to be kind and talk kindly to yourself without adding pressure. And leave the phone out of sight until you’re ready for the day, physically and mentally. A tidy space leads to a tidy and calm mind.

     

    #Tip 2: Make time for true focus as well as empty time

    Multitasking is a thing of the past. I cannot emphasise this enough – it is absolutely crucial to focus on as little as possible! Being busy as parents, entrepreneurs, and/or employees and only having a limited amount of hours in the day to focus on your work, I have only one tip for you: focus on a few carefully chosen topics for each day. Your to-do list should be manageable and realistic. Depending on the day I have around 3-5 topics on my daily to-do list. Yes, only. It makes me so happy when I have managed to tick them all off. And if not, they will get on top of the list for the next day. Remember: less is more! Lastly, don’t forget to actually schedule empty time into your day. You need it to refresh your mind, getting creative, going outside, or simply for being present, for yourself or for your loved ones.

     

    #Tip 3: Empty counters and clear surfaces

    Trying to keep countertops in the kitchen and other surfaces free from stuff and clutter has made a massive difference to my family’s daily life. In the kitchen it means that you have a lot of space to spread out when you cook or bake. No large amounts of utensils or spices and oil bottles to move around. Keeping on display only the bare essentials makes the kitchen a joy to cook in as well as a breeze to clean afterwards. 
    The dining table is equally important to keep clear so there is space for the kids to do their homework or arts and craft projects. The entrance is your welcome area, try to keep it tidy at all times to welcome both yourself and visitors to your haven of harmony.
     

     

    #Tip 4: Returning things to their homes after use as quickly as possible

    Make it into a habit when coming home to return bikes, kick-boards, jackets, shoes, backpacks, hats and mittens to their homes. It is also a means of respect towards your belongings, to put them to rest after serving you well. And it also means you will always know where to find them when you need them again. Win-win.

     

    #Tip 5: Take 10 mins to tidy your home daily

    Involve each family member, put on some happy music and get going! Do this each day approximately at the same time, before or after dinner for example. At the end of the day put away recently used toys, games, work papers and school stuff where they belong. It doesn’t need to take long to maintain a certain basic tidiness of your home when you make it fun and do it together!

     

    #Tip 6: Take 5 mins at the end of the day to clear your inbox

    Less to do’s = less overwhelm. Process your emails into folders (ideally max 7) on a daily basis. The goal should be to have an empty inbox every week or even every day, if at all possible. If you’re interested to know more about digital decluttering, I’m now offering virtual coaching to free you from digital overwhelm!

    Life is all about balance. You don’t always need to be getting stuff done. Sometimes it’s perfectly okay, and absolutely necessary, to shut down, kick back, and do nothing.
    LORI DESCHENE

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me. 

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  • Family, General, Home, Lifestyle

    2020 – A LEGO kind of year

    Dear 2020,

    THANK YOU for showing us so many new ways to grow, to do things differently and to be there for each other.
    I’M SORRY you brought with you so much pain and suffering.
    GOODBYE. We’re done with you now and wish to move forward towards new beginnings.

    2020 was very LEGO like. You stepped hard on it and it hurt your feet so badly you wanted to SCREAM. If you’ve ever stepped on a LEGO brick (is there anyone who hasn’t?) you will know exactly what I mean. On the other hand, what seemed impossible before quickly became possible. We had no choice but to start building amazing things from those broken LEGO bricks. Impossible for many turned into I’M POSSIBLE. And that’s something we should cherish and be immensely grateful for.

    What are you grateful for looking back at 2020? Let’s look back at some of my 2020 reflection highlights and take a sneak peek into 2021…!

    #1 Creativity, blogging and My Swiss Story

    I had always dreamed of blogging but never dared to start. During the lockdown in spring I stumbled upon a few online courses, one about writing and one about photography. I got an urge to start writing and boy, that felt amazing.

    As if all the stars in the Universe were aligning, later in spring I was asked to start blogging for My Swiss Story and become part of the new editorial board as Home and Lifestyle Editor. What a privilege it’s been and an absolute honour to meet and work with these talented ladies! I’ve found my creative vein again (which had been buried somewhere deep under the other LEGOs for too long) and started to truly enjoy myself writing, photographing and creating meaningful and valuable content.

    #2 Family, time, calm and nature

    How precious wasn’t this spring to our family! We will never forget how calm and relaxed our empty diaries made us feel. We suddenly had time for all those long hikes both near and far in the mountains, the bike tours, the board games and movie nights, all spent together as a family.

    But there was of course also a downside to this amazing LEGO brick called family: being an entrepreneur, having 2 small kids at home 24/7, homeschooling them, and a previously frequent traveller husband who suddenly works from home 100% and spends 90% of his days on the phone. We cried, we laughed, we argued, we hugged, we kissed and made up, we danced, we worked out together and we were frustrated, worried and angry. The whole spectrum was there.

    And lastly there was the additional constant worry about our family members’ and friends’ health back home in Finland. We just had to make space within us for all these feelings, whether we wanted or not. And we all just had to learn to let them be there, observe them and let them go again when ready. Thank you technology for making social distancing bearable. Frequent video calls with friends and family were and still are a lifesaver. Going back home over Christmas is sadly not an option this year.


    #3 Keep sane and exercise!

    It is no secret that exercise keeps you fit and healthy both physically and mentally. This year has shown me more than ever that exercise is a total MUST in order for me to keep my sanity! Even a short walk or burst of activity makes all the difference, especially in the morning. This. Is. The. Ultimate. Self. Care. LEGO. Starting the day right.

    Some days you just want to stay in bed but the days you go out for that run, or do that short but sweet morning yoga practice or meet likeminded friends at your favourite Mom in Balance outdoor class (even in the pouring rain and with Covid-restrictions obviously!), is when you feel most alive and energised! Not sure many of you even know this, but besides being an entrepreneur I work since several years for this amazing women-only fitness concept to support and keep women and mothers of all levels fit and healthy. And it sure feels good and right to do that. Balance is key.

    #4 My Happy Home – celebrate the sanctuary you have created

    My Happy Home, my entrepreneurial baby, came to a crossroads this year. Covid interrupted all home visits in one go and forced me to look into new ways of working with clients. At first I was so upset, but looking back now it was actually a very productive, hugely positive business LEGO building break I had. Many creative parts of my business were born or refreshed: my blogs, my Newsletter and my IG, as well as introducing online coaching and workshops. New beautiful collaborations and connections have started to form. My coach told me to celebrate, all of it – and she’s so right! We are not always good at celebrating ourselves as women, too often we put others before ourselves..!

    CHRYSALISM
    It is that relaxed, calm feeling you have when you’re inside and it’s storming outside.

    What I have learned to appreciate more than ever is our curated home and our simplified lifestyle that brings us calm, balance and comfort, especially in times of uncertainty. My sanctuary is my KonMari world of joy and harmony, where less really is more, in all life areas. And no, my home is not picture perfect at all times, far from it, we just have an easily tidied mess.. ;)

    Hello 2021 – you are my year of mindful and intentional visibility

    It is not with a heavy heart I’m saying goodbye to 2020. It’s with a heart full of hope, light and excitement! I challenge and promise myself that

    • I will be kinder to myself
    • I will be enough no matter what I do
    • I will celebrate more, even tiny wins
    • I will be more present in the now
    • I will show up more in life, every day
    • I will continue to inspire and support
    • I will continue to love, do and simply be me

    Will you join me in the challenge to becoming mindfully and intentionally visible?

    “There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other is called tomorrow, so today is the right day to love, believe, do, and mostly live.”
    DALAI LAMA

    Happy Holidays!

    Stay Healthy And Safe.
    2021 – We Are Ready For You!

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Family, Home, Organising

    Organising and simplifying with kids: 4 tips on how to tackle artwork and paper crafts

    The simple truth is that our kids are, well, messy. They usually have the most stuff in the household, and as long as they are living under our roof it’s a never ending story of growth: in and out of clothes, shoes, toys, crafts, games, gadgets etc.. However, whenever I work with kids, I’m always positively surprised by their ability to find creative solutions, their willingness to help and share, and their natural need and feel for order. Some more, some less, but they all have it in them. You might just be in for a big surprise by how much they actually want to be involved and how eager they are to learn how to be(come) organised. All they need is a little help and guidance.

    So how can we help our kids? By teaching them these 3 simple things:

    1. reducing
    2. setting limits
    3. designating a home for all things

    The best part is that we as parents are actually able to give our kids a gift for life! The gift of teaching them how to appreciate and care for their belongings. Now and forever.

    I’ve recognised the worst 3 clutter culprits with kids, I bet you know too which ones these are…My top 3 list includes: clothing & shoes, arts and crafts, and toys. Clothing is no surprise, since kids might be going through 2 sizes in a few months, depending on age. But since I’ve gotten so many questions about what to do with the piles of artwork and paper crafts the kids are bringing home from kindergarten and school every single day or week (and some kids additionally creating more at home on a daily basis!) this is the category we will tackle now with our kids’ recent return to (art production) school.


    Decluttering alone or with kids and for how long?

    If your kids are over 5 years old I would suggest you do it together with them, if younger than that you can do it on your own (after they’re in bed!). Start with this project fresh on a free (weekend) morning, and depending on the age of your child(ren) try not to spend more than max. 15-30 mins in one go, since that’s usually how long kids can focus on decluttering. Remember that it takes a loot of energy for a tiny human to make so many decisions at once. My tips below might help you find your own unique way of dealing with your family’s artwork and paper craft mountain.

    TOP TIP! The more often you declutter this category, the quicker it goes! And I’m sorry to say, but it won’t be enough with one session per year! If you want to keep on top of the artwork and paper clutter, it has to be made into a fun habit and done on a regular basis. I try to do this with my kids  (pre-schooler and 2nd grader) every month.

    1. KonMari your artwork

    Decluttering artwork and paper crafts the KonMari way consist of three steps, as follows.

    Step 1: Gather all your artwork and paper crafts

    Like with all other KonMari tidying categories we start with gathering every single piece of artwork and paper crafts in the house and bring them to one place. A large floor space is all you need for this purpose. Before you start going through it all piece by piece, you might want to separate the artwork by year or month, depending on how much you have.

    Step 2: Does it spark joy – what does it mean to a child?

    Now comes the hard part. The only self evident thing is that you can’t keep it all! But what should you keep and what should you confidently let go of? When doing the joy check with kids ask them to hold the item close to them and feel if they like it. You might need to find some alternative ways to ask them what a certain piece of art means for them. I’ve put together a handy list of questions you can use when going through each item and find the gems truly speaking to their (and your) hearts:

    Comparison questions: 

    • * do you like this one or this one more? Why? 
    • * you seem to really like blue, is this blue drawing maybe your favourite?
    • * use the artwork the child seems to like the most as a reference when comparing with new items
    • * is this one so beautiful that you would like to give it to someone special (family, friends)?
    • * let’s hang your 5 favourites on your wall. Can you please show me which ones you like the most out of these (max 15 alternatives)?

    Fact based questions (mainly to help the adult guide the process):

    • * are there duplicates or even several of the same kind? Are they broken?
    • * does it represent an age/milestone/certain stage for your child?
    • * does it show a personal bond? Ie. pictures of your family, grand parents etc.
    • * did your child spend hours on something or only a few seconds?
    • * what does your child want you to save? 
    • * did you receive the artwork as a gift?

    Even if your child offers you every single drawing they make as a gift, it doesn’t mean you need to keep them all. Thank them for the gift, show them love and appreciation and they’re probably super happy with the attention. Keep only 5-10% of the best of the best, and keep them with joy and confidence.

    TOP TIP: Remember to choose what you want to keep, rather than choosing what to get rid off! Always keep an OUTBOX (paper recycling) handy so that your kids know where they can independently put artwork they’re ready to gratefully part with.

    Step 3: Find a home for each item

    Once you’re done with the selection process you have one more job to do – organising and storing, meaning deciding where these jewels should live going forward. You might have a shelf or a drawer where you keep favourite things until the next decluttering session. Or for the true gems you might want to look into one of the options below.

    2. Organise a pop up exhibition

    Do you have an empty wall at home or in your kids’ room(s)? Why don’t you make it into an art wall where your kids can exhibit their creations for the next month, and then exchange the art, like a rotating pop up exhibition?! Using a simple clothesline with some clothespins will do. Make sure the artwork is placed on a child friendly hight too. You can even invite your friends and family over for an opening apero. Make it fun! Perfectionism has no space or place in this.

     

    3. Make a memory box for each child

    My first and most important tip for working with kids is to create a large enough memory box for each child. This box is only for very special emotional belongings, milestones and memories from their childhood. Examples of items to keep in this box could be a completed baby book, the first shoes, a special occasion dress, their birth certificate, special photos and artwork, a special soft toy etc. You’re the designer and creator of this box.

    When it comes to artwork, why don’t you ask yourself this: did your parents save your old artwork and did you like getting this collection as an adult? If you did enjoy it, maybe your kids will too. But chances are they don’t want it and then you might as well consider the next option, a digital book. This is a topic with so many answers, and remember that there is no right or wrong – only what feels right for YOU!

    4. Create a photo book out of the most precious artwork

    This is a lovely idea, however, it requires you to keep track of which child did what and when. You can also choose to take a picture of the child(ren) together with their masterpiece so if you choose to make a photo book you don’t only have the masterpiece featured but also the child. There are also a few options specialised in kids’ artwork and memory books, you might want to check out Doodlenest or the Artkive app.

     

     

    Have you organised your children’s artwork yet?
    Let us know and comment below with your best tips!

     

    Best of luck and enjoy decluttering!

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    Live more with less. Create space for a life you love with the KonMari Method.

    From inspiration to transformation

    Are you just a tiny bit intrigued by the famous KonMari Method® and what it really does behind the pretty surface? Let me tell you a secret you might not even like to hear. It might look and sound so easy to go through all your belongings and choose to keep only what makes you happy. It isn’t. It’s hard work, both physically, mentally and emotionally, but at the end of the day the rewards are so huge you cannot even imagine you didn’t get started earlier. It’s a little bit like pushing the reset button of your life and getting a whole new start, only this time the game has totally changed.

    In what way? You’ve evolved. Your mindset has changed. You’re more aware of what makes you happy and joyful. You’ve let go of things that no longer serve you, may it be belongings, social media, attitudes or relationships. You’ve simplified. You might have become more environmentally aware too. No matter what kind of transformation has occurred you’ve moved on and opened up doors for new things to enter.

    Marie Kondo & Helena Zachariassen in London 2019

    Are you ready to let go of the excess?

    Let me ask you something. Are you tired of clutter? Is there too much clutter at home, in your mind, at work, in your diary..? Too much mental, physical and even digital stuff, too much of every.single.thing? Would you be ready to simplify your home and your life? Then allow me to introduce you to the method of simplifying that will not leave you untouched once you get the ball rolling.

    The space I live in is graced only with those things that speak to my heart.
    My lifestyle brings me joy.

    MARIE KONDO

    Myths and basic rules

    Let’s also agree that the myths of the KonMari method® are exactly that, myths. It’s not about how many books you’re “allowed” to keep in your bookshelf or how minimalistic your home should become…quite the opposite actually. The objective is that every person decides the right amount of belongings for him/herself, as long as these belongings speak to the heart. It’s about curating Your home and life to suit Your ideal lifestyle.

    The six basic rules of the KonMari Method® can be summarised as follows

    1. 1. Commit yourself to tidying up
    2. 2. Visualise your ideal lifestyle
    3. 3. Finish discarding first
    4. 4. Tidy by category – not by location
    5. 5. Follow the right order
    6. 6. Ask yourself if it sparks joy

    How does it work? And what is a joy check?

    Each client starts with a visualisation exercise before digging into the actual work. Why? Because your ideal lifestyle will be the red thread to follow throughout the whole tidying process. Once the vision is clear we start tidying by category – not by location – beginning with clothes, then moving on to books, papers, komono (miscellaneous items), and finally, sentimental items.


    Joy checking. You will be going through all of your belongings in the above mentioned specific order, re-evaluating your relationship with them and keeping only those items that truly spark joy. Finally you will then choose a ‘home’ for every item from then on so you will always know where to find it as well as return it after use. Remember that the ideal amount of belongings will differ for each individual.

    What about pretty boxes and storage solutions? 

    The final storage solutions always come last once we know how much there is left to store. A lot of times there is more than enough storage space when you’re done decluttering, and you can also choose to repurpose boxes and containers in so many ways.

     

    The result

    So how long does it take? Anything between a few weeks and 6 months, depending on the size of the household and the scope of the project. By following these steps you will be introduced to tips and tricks along the way on how to tackle your clutter and start living a happier, simpler and lighter life that truly sparks joy. You will learn how to maximise functionality and minimise clutter, forever. And it’s being done in one go, because once you’ve done the whole house you will never go back to the way it was.

    The outcome of this process is unique for each unique individual. It might be  a life changing transformation. It might have inspired you to minimise your wardrobe or change your morning routine or bring change into that one tiny area of your life that you’re not so happy with. Or make yourself a power spot at home. No matter the outcome, with time this way of life will sprinkle its way into other areas of your life and spread its wings of joy and happiness everywhere. Are you ready to give it a go?

    Being organised isn’t about getting rid of everything you own or trying to become a different person. It’s about living the way you want to live, but better.

    ANDREW MELLEN

    Are you enjoying my tips? I invite you to sign up for my Newsletter to read more about simplifying, home organising, a well balanced happy home and nordic living. Alternatively you can head over to my Instagram for more inspiration. Stay tuned for some KonMari inspired summer tips..coming soon!
     
    xx

    Helena

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • General, Home, Lifestyle

    Meet Helena – The Founder of My Happy Home

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    Hello friends, I’m Helena Zachariassen, a certified KonMari Consultant and Lifestyle Coach and founder of My Happy Home. I was born and raised in Finland, the Nordic country of pure, quiet and beautiful wilderness. I’m a total Scandi girl at heart, with a long and difficult-to-pronounce Danish surname, nevertheless loving and embracing all of the opportunities and life lessons living abroad offers. Growing up in the north and spending all my summers on a lonely but beautiful island in the archipelago made me become deeply inspired by nature, beauty and simplicity and learn to respect and honour our precious environment.

     

    Since 2011 I live in beautiful Switzerland, close to Zurich, with my husband and 2 young children. Before that, I used to live in 5 other European countries and I believe I have a wide understanding of most expat challenges by now… ?

    Q: Tell us about your work

    After spending most of my adult life in the corporate world of international business consulting supporting people in their professional development I became a mom and life changed over night. In the following years navigating a new world abroad, with two small children and no support network at hand, I was turning inwards to find my own life mission and purpose career wise. I discovered the KonMari Method® in 2016 and within a few years from this first discovery I got to meet Marie Kondo, became a certified KonMari Consultant and I was able to combine my passions and finally become an entrepreneur doing what I love!

    The KonMari Method® is all about getting to know your ideal lifestyle, and let this vision guide you in choosing joy, not only with regards to your belongings, but in all areas of life. As a Lifestyle Coach I’m passionate about supporting, empowering and inspiring people of any walk of life to simplify and transform their lives by organising their living spaces according to the KonMari Method®. If you feel overwhelmed with stuff and chaos, in other words mental and physical clutter, and you don’t know where to start or are longing for a place to call your own haven of harmony I’m your go-to person. I will hold your hand, lovingly curate and create space for a home and life you’ll love. In our individual in-home sessions (or alternatively virtual sessions!) I will teach you how to minimise clutter and maximise functionality, forever. In addition I consult you with decorating any space you feel needs a face lift or simply just re-arranging or re-purposing what you already have.

    The question of what you want to own is actually the question of how you want to live your life.

    MARIE KONDO

    Q: What’s a day like in your heels?

    I used to wear heels to work daily, I even cycled to work in heels when I was living in Copenhagen, a true bike heaven! However, as a mother of two running around from hobbies to playgrounds and nowadays as an entrepreneur having a very hands-on job, I mostly wear flats and comfy shoes, that I totally love.

    No day is the same in our busy household. Usually my husband travels a lot, and I’m the one juggling and managing the daily home life as well as my business. Some days I have half or full day client sessions and some days I work behind the scenes creating content, photographing, writing and learning new skills for myself and my clients. Other days I spend my time as full time driver, teacher, coach, nurse and chef to my tiny humans.

    To add some more fun to the weekly puzzle I also work part-time as Community Manager for Mom in Balance Switzerland, whose mission is to keep women and moms (to be) fit and in great shape through challenging and fun outdoor workouts. Such a fun and energising concept I can hardly believe I’ve been part of it for almost 7 years already.

    My kids are my biggest joy as well as my daily teachers. I love spending time with them, but I equally love getting some needed me-time, no matter if it’s work related or simply talking to a friend over the phone. We’re so lucky to have found some lovely Au pairs, who have helped and supported our family through these busy years. What’s essential to me is that I’m able to be flexible with my work and be at home when the kids need me, especially if their dad is travelling.

    Q: What can our readers expect from you?

    I love to share ideas and inspire! Especially on all things home related, may it be tidying and decluttering, organising, simplifying, beautiful interior ideas or simply some life coaching tips for a happy home or a joyful thought. I truly hope that you as my readers will get inspiration from me and my own experiences in simplifying, juggling work and family life as well as find beauty, harmony and joy in your everyday lives. 

    Q: Tell us some fun facts about you

    • * As the only girl with 3 brothers, I wished I was a boy too and refused to wear any dress when I was little. Later on I actually really missed having a sister!
    • * I love my morning coffee, even if I rarely manage to drink it warm
    • * Red wine and salty liquorice chocolate are my real treats
    • * I used to be a gymnast and later on a gymnastics coach for young girls. I can (almost) still do the split! 
    • * I used to be cabin crew for one summer for the Finnish airline Finnair
    • * I used to sing in the Helsinki University female voice choir Lyran for 10 years
    • * I speak about 6 languages (Swedish and any Scandi language, Finnish, English, German and French).

    Q: What do you do when you’re not working?

    Being with kids is amazingly rewarding but also exhausting and without sports and exercise I couldn’t function properly.

    Whether I do a sweaty workout (which I love!), take a walk or run in nature, a hike in the mountains or a ski day out on the slopes, I’m in my element. I also love spending time with good friends, sharing a meal, a deep conversation, laughter and a glass of bubbly or two. And if I really want to wind down, I start folding clothes or I start an organising project, which are both amazingly therapeutical and I can lose myself completely in it.

    Through the right amount of tidiness both in our homes and in our minds together with healthy nutrition, exercise to keep you fit and enough rest, I strongly believe that you will have more energy and be able to live a happier and lighter life focusing on what matters most for you.

    “Tidying your home and life is like an artichoke.
    Little by little you peel the layers away and with time you reveal the heart of it all.”

    Helena Zachariassen

    Are you enjoying my tips? Sign up for my Newsletter to read more about simplifying, home organising, a well balanced happy home and nordic living or head over to my Instagram.

    xo
    Helena

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Family, Home, Lifestyle

    5 tips to keep your family home organised during lockdown

    Our new normal is anything but normal, but also different depending on who you talk to. Is it possible for a family to keep a home tidy and organised during a lockdown? Yes! With a positive mindset and a ‘we can do this together’ attitude anything is possible.

    Even though, being a KonMari Consultant and Lifestyle Coach myself and a fond advocate of the huge benefits of the KonMari Method®, I would always suggest that everyone should start their simplifying journey with reducing the amount of their belongings, I’m not asking you to do that. If decluttering is indeed something you do want to embark on, get started with joy checking your clothes and keep going, I will cheer you on and support you in any way I can! But if you feel that even thinking about a decluttering project is too overwhelming right now, let’s just focus on realistic, small and manageable steps to do as a family.

    To reduce stress levels the first step for you to do is decide what kind of stay-at-home life you really want and need right now. Sit with the thought and let the answers come to you. Your intuition will help you find the most important things for you. Invite your kids to do the same during a quiet moment. The next step is to take out everything that isn’t what you want right now. And I don’t mean physical items only. We’re talking about social media, TV, the flow of (bad) news, junk food, negative people…you name it.

    Here’s what you can do:

    1. 1. Hold a family meeting about your ideal organised home life and commit
      Let each family member visualise their ideal home and make a list of the most important organising goals for everyone. One goal per family member is enough. Keep the final list visible at all times and respect each other’s wishes at all times.

      An example list could look something like this:
      * Make your own bed every morning
      * Hang jackets and put away shoes to keep the entrance tidy and clutter free
      * Put all dirty dishes in the dishwasher straight after use
      * Tidy away school books/work items straight after having finished
      * Tidy all toys back to their homes before dinner
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    1.  
    2. 2. Lead by example
      Kids naturally love order, but they need help with learning HOW to be orderly. Show them how to be tidy and organised. Start by tidying yourself. Maybe fold your clothes the KonMari way and save tons of storage space would help your daily routine? If your kids are anything like mine they will ask what you’re doing and want to have a tidy closet, toy basket or room themselves. It’s so much fun to tidy together – make it into a game and you will find that you’re actually starting to enjoy tidying together!

       

    3. 3. Make sure that all things are returned to their home after being used
      This is the Ultimate Tidy Tip. As soon as people start leaving things around it will get messy and untidy. Help the family by identifying a home for all items. Store likes with likes and label your shelves, boxes and baskets if you’re into that kind of thing. For small kids a picture on a box will help them recognise the right home for their different toys and makes it a fun task instead of a boring chore.

       

    4. 4. Responsibility
      Make every family member responsible for a task/room/a small area to keep tidy on a daily basis, depending on age. This makes children feel responsible and they will feel so proud being able to manage their own task. If needed and age appropriate you can add a daily reward chart to follow how well the tasks are going and maybe pay a small salary for a job well done at the end of the week. At the same time you teach your kids how to work smart and earn money. Win-win.

       

    5. 5. Personal space & power spot
       Make sure all family members have their own working space during the day, even if you all sit around the kitchen table, as well as their own power spot. A power spot is a space where everyone can go to find peace and get some important me-time, surrounded by a few of their most cherished belongings that bring them joy. When the favourite items are always kept at the personal power spot they will a) always be easily found and they will b) not be floating around the house either and needing to be tidied away.

     

    My final tip is my personal favourite. Simple yet so enjoyable. Bring in fresh flowers if you are able to find any! They will brighten up any space and make it look lighter, happy and updated.

     

     

     

    For more tips on home organising, a well balanced happy home and nordic living head over to my blog, visit my website and/or follow me on Instagram. And please don’t hesitate to share this blog with anyone you think might like learning more about these topics.

    Stay positive, stay healthy!
    xx
    Helena

    This article post was first published on My Swiss Story, where you will find amazing resources and stories about expat life in Switzerland!

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  • General, Home, Lifestyle

    4 simple things that make a Happy Home

    I’ve wanted to write a book for as long as I can remember. But life happened and my writing never even started properly. I didn’t even know in which language to write! My third language feels so natural now I guess it’s fairly safe to start. One of my biggest inspirations is our kids’ former granny nanny Enni, a dear friend, who during her nanny year with us started blogging, at the age of 60. She’s still my every day heroine and oftentimes I find myself thinking, what would Enni say or encourage me to do now. I think she would love reading this blog, my blog.

    In these turbulent coronavirus times of staying at home, I needed a change. Just a small one, something realistic, inspirational and joyful. Something for me. So I decided to give blogging a go! I will share my thoughts about the big and small things in life that inspire me. Home, family, my work as a KonMari Consultant and Lifestyle Coach, things I love from my Scandinavian and Nordic roots, sports, wellbeing and other stories..

    A451BD7C-4E4C-4D78-8056-CB7EE17AFC75
    IMG_8751
    Mobile book case

    What makes a Happy Home?

    Health, Love, Laughter and Simplicity. Seriously, it is that simple. It’s not stuff, it’s not clothes or designer furniture or a fancy car or any of the things we’re being urged to buy everywhere. All. The. Time. Somewhere in the race we’ve lost the fundamentals. The essentials of being human. If this crisis has brought us something positive it’s exactly this. Time for people to re-examine their lives and what matters most.

    1. Health
    We have only one life. Be gentle and kind to yourself and others. Be bold, take chances, dare to live and love and make mistakes. We all do, that’s human.


    2. Love

    Love is all around us and within us. Just breathe, still yourself and quieten the chatter in your mind. Look around you and you’ll notice. It’s the magic of life and love out there. The more generously you give out, the more you receive.

     

     


    3. Laughter
    Laughing is honestly so good for you. Research shows that laughter, especially in a group, decreases our stress levels and boosts our immune system. What easier and better way is there to boost your health? 


    Humour is mankind’s greatest blessing.
    MARK TWAIN

    4. Simplicity

    Do you see beyond what you already have in life? Gratitude goes such a long way. The simple truth is that the less you own the easier your home and life is to maintain. A tidy home truly equals a tidy mind.

     

     

    WELCOME to my blog dear reader and friend. I’d love to hear any feedback you might have and any topic ideas you would like me to cover.

    Read more about me here or follow me on Instagram.

    Stay Safe, Healthy and Happy in Your Homes,

    xo
    Helena

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