by Sara M. Buying your first home is a massive deal congrats if you're doing it this year! It’s exciting and maybe a little terrifying. You’ve probably been daydreaming about furniture, paint colors, and having your own space to throw the kind of dinner parties where nobody has to balance a plate on their lap. But here’s the thing most people won’t tell you: owning a home comes with a whole new level of responsibility, especially when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. And first-time homebuyers? We tend to make some classic (and totally avoidable) mistakes. That’s where I come in. I’m here to spill the tea on what to look out for in 2025 so you can save time, money, and a whole lot of stress. So, grab a coffee, take a seat, and let’s talk about the biggest homeownership mistakes you don’t want to make this year. 1. Thinking You’re Done After Moving In Okay, so you've signed the papers, you’ve got the keys, and all your boxes are in. You’re home! Now, it’s Netflix and chill forever, right? Not quite. A lot of new homeowners fall into this trap of thinking the hard part is over. The truth is, moving in is just the beginning. There are filters to change, vents to clean, caulking to replace, gutters to check… you get the idea. If you ignore that stuff, it doesn’t go away. It just builds up until something breaks, and suddenly your weekend plans involve fixing a leaky faucet instead of brunch. Tip: Make a “maintenance calendar” for the year. Seriously. Even a Google Doc will do. List stuff like cleaning gutters, replacing air filters, checking for leaks, and calling in professionals like a duct cleaner service once a year. You'll thank yourself later . 2. Underestimating the Power of Deep Cleaning You know that weird smell in the fridge? Or the dust you find behind the dryer? Yeah, deep cleaning isn’t just for spring. When you move into a new place especially if it was previously lived in deep cleaning everything is non-negotiable. Even if it looks clean, it might not be clean. We’re talking: • Cabinet interiors • The tops of ceiling fans • Under appliances • Inside light fixtures • Vents and air ducts There’s a good chance previous owners didn’t clean every nook and cranny before handing over the keys. And that grime? It’s now your grime. Gross, I know. Tip: Before you move your stuff in, block off one day to deep clean every single inch. Or hire someone if you can swing it. It’s worth it . 3. Ignoring HVAC Systems Until They Break Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is like your home’s lungs. And just like lungs, it needs clean air to work properly. One big mistake new homeowners make is forgetting to schedule regular maintenance for this system. It’s super easy to forget, especially if everything seems fine. But then comes the first cold night or blazing summer day when the system sputters out and you're stuck shivering or sweating and waiting for an emergency repair that costs twice as much. Tip: Schedule an annual HVAC inspection and cleaning. And yes, this includes replacing filters and cleaning your air ducts. If it’s been a few years since the last service, it might be time to call a duct cleaner service to get everything back in shape. 4. Overlooking Water Damage (Until It’s Too Late) Water is sneaky. One tiny leak behind a wall can turn into a mold nightmare before you even know something’s wrong. And the worst part? Many first-time buyers don’t notice the signs until it’s already caused damage. Things to watch out for: • Brown or yellow stains on the ceiling or walls • Soft spots on floors or drywall • A musty smell that won’t go away • Higher-than-usual water bills Even a minor leak can turn into an expensive repair if you let it fester. Tip: Make it a habit to check under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater every few months. Look for puddles, drips, or mold. Don’t ignore the signs. 5. Skipping Gutter Cleaning This one’s not glamorous, but it’s a biggie. Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up onto your roof, leaking into your home, or ruining your landscaping. And no, your roof isn't made to act like a giant birdbath. It’s easy to forget about gutters, especially if you live in a place that doesn’t see tons of rain. But even light rain can cause damage if it doesn’t drain properly. Tip: Clean your gutters at least twice a year. Spring and fall are ideal. Or hire someone to do it for you. It’s not expensive, and it can save you thousands in water damage repairs . 6. Failing to Budget for Maintenance You’ve probably budgeted for your mortgage, utilities, and maybe even that new couch. But have you set aside a maintenance fund? Because let me tell you stuff will break. Things wear out. And nothing's worse than needing a new hot water heater and realizing your bank account just said, “lol, good luck.” A general rule of thumb is to set aside 1%–2% of your home’s purchase price each year for maintenance. So if your home costs $300,000, you’re looking at saving $3,000 to $6,000 annually. Tip: Open a separate “home emergency fund” in your bank. Out of sight, out of mind and there when you need it . 7. Forgetting the Importance of a Clean Basement If your new place has a basement, don’t treat it like the dark hole where Christmas decorations go to die. Basements are prone to dampness, mold, and critters if not maintained properly. Check it often for: • Moisture or leaks • Cracks in the foundatio n • Mold on walls or ceilings • Weird smells Even if you don’t plan on finishing your basement anytime soon, keeping it clean and dry can protect the rest of your home. Tip: Run a dehumidifier in the warmer months. And once a year, give it a full clean sweep, mop, and declutter. You never know when you’ll need that space . 8. Assuming Appliances Will Last Forever We get it you’ve just dropped a ton of money on your new house. The last thing you want to do is replace the fridge. But if it’s older than your Netflix account, you might not have a choice. Old appliances aren’t just inefficient, they can be ticking time bombs. Fridges leak, dishwashers flood kitchens, and dryers catch fire. No, seriously. Tip: Ask your home inspector for estimates on how old your appliances are. Then, budget to replace them before they die. In the meantime, clean behind them (like, move them out!) and give them regular maintenance. You’ll add years to their life. 9. Not Changing the Air Filters This one’s easy, and yet so many first-time homeowners forget about it. Your HVAC filters need to be changed every 1–3 months depending on your system, pets, and lifestyle. Dirty filters don’t just mess with your air quality, they can cause your system to work overtime and eventually break down. Tip: Buy a 6-pack of filters and set a calendar reminder. Change them on the first of every month if you’ve got pets or allergies. It’s quick, cheap, and makes a big difference. 10. Leaving Exterior Cleaning for “Later” It’s tempting to focus all your energy on decorating the inside, but don’t forget the outside of your home needs love too. Dirty siding, clogged exterior vents, mossy roofs, and spider web-covered porch lights can all add up to big problems later. Plus, keeping the exterior clean protects your investment and keeps your curb appeal on point. Tip: Schedule a pressure washing once a year, clean your windows seasonally, and don’t let that leaf pile sit against the house all winter. Exterior cleaning is part of maintenance, not just aesthetics . 11. Not Knowing Where Your Shut-Off Valves Are Imagine you walk into your kitchen and water is gushing from under the sink. You panic. You scream. You grab towels. But do you know where the main water shut-off is? A surprising number of first-time buyers don’t. And those minutes of scrambling can make a huge difference in water damage. Tip: As soon as you move in, find the shut-off valves: main water, gas, and circuit breaker. Label them. Make sure your partner or roommates know where they are too. Emergencies are way less scary when you’re prepared. 12. Letting Clutter Take Over Storage Spaces When you first move in, you might think, “Wow, so much space!” But that illusion fades fast once every closet and cabinet is full of random junk you didn’t even realize you owned. Clutter builds up quickly, and once it starts, it’s hard to get under control. Messy garages, overstuffed attics, and chaotic closets make cleaning and maintenance harder. Tip: Once a season, do a quick purge. Donate or toss what you don’t need. Organized storage = easier life. 13. Overlooking Seasonal Maintenance Every season brings new to-dos for homeowners. Spring means cleaning and landscaping. Summer brings lawn care and outdoor maintenance. Fall is all about prep for winter. And winter? It’s a good time to check for drafts and frozen pipes. It sounds like a lot, but breaking it down by season helps keep it manageable. Tip: Keep a seasonal checklist on your fridge or phone. A little effort now saves you from big issues later . 14. Thinking You Can DIY Everything YouTube is great. But sometimes, it lies. Or at least, it makes things look way easier than they are. One of the biggest mistakes new homeowners make is thinking they can fix anything themselves. Now, I’m all for learning new skills. But when it comes to electrical work, plumbing, or anything structural, call a pro. You’ll save money in the long run by avoiding expensive mistakes. Tip: Build a list of trusted local contractors, handy people, and cleaners (including a duct cleaner service you trust). Don’t wait until something’s broken to go searching. 15. Treating Your Home Like a Rental This one’s a mindset shift. You’re the owner now. That creaky floorboard? You fix it. That dingy carpet? You replace it. It’s not someone else’s job anymore. A lot of new homeowners keep that renter mentality for too long, waiting for someone else to handle things or not wanting to spend money on fixes. But your home’s value depends on regular upkeep and so does your comfort. Tip: Treat your home with love and care, and it’ll return the favor. Final Thoughts (Not a Conclusion, Promise) Owning a home is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. But it’s also a big responsibility and the learning curve can be steep. The key? Stay curious, stay proactive, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

by Sara M Let’s be real, kitchen remodels have a reputation for being expensive. Like, “ouch-my-wallet-is-crying” is expensive. But what if I told you that you could totally transform your kitchen without dipping into your savings account or selling a kidney? That’s right, friend. You can give your kitchen a glow-up and still stay under a $5K budget. Whether you’re trying to boost your home’s resale value or just want to love where you cook, there are smart, affordable upgrades that actually make a difference. And while you’re at it, I’ll also throw in some game-changing cleaning hacks that’ll make your kitchen feel brand new without a single tool involved. So grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine no judgment), and let’s dive into budget-friendly kitchen remodels and cleaning tips that pack a serious punch. 1. Paint: The Ultimate Makeover in a Can You'd be surprised how far a couple of gallons of paint can go. A fresh coat on your kitchen walls or cabinets can change the entire vibe of the space. Go from drab to fab in a weekend. Hot Tip: Choose light, neutral shades like soft gray, creamy white, or a gentle sage green. They make the kitchen feel bigger and brighter, and they're super appealing if you're thinking of selling your place in the near future. Cabinet refresh cost: $100–$300 Wall paint cost: $50–$100 Want to really save? Skip the professional painter and host a painting party with your friends. Pizza + paint = a weirdly fun Saturday. 2. Swap Out Cabinet Hardware This one’s almost laughably simple, but the impact is big. Replacing those dated brass knobs or sticky drawer pulls with modern, matte black or brushed nickel hardware instantly elevates your kitchen’s look. You don’t need fancy power tools or a workshop in your garage, just a screwdriver and maybe some new screws if the sizes don’t match. Hardware cost: $50–$200 Go for cohesive shapes and finishes. For example, if your faucet is chrome, maybe pick hardware in a similar tone so the space feels intentional. 3. Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Magic Yup, you read that right. Peel-and-stick tile backsplash. It exists, and it’s AMAZING. No grout. No tile saws. Just peel, stick, and pat yourself on the back for being a DIY genius. You can choose from subway tile styles, mosaics, or even fake marble. Most are water-resistant and super easy to clean. Backsplash cost: $100–$300 This one upgrade can make your kitchen look like it belongs in a magazine. 4. New Faucet = Instant Upgrade You’d be shocked at how much a new faucet changes things. A sleek pull-down sprayer model in a modern finish like matte black or stainless steel makes your kitchen feel instantly high-end. And installing it isn’t rocket science. Most people can swap it out in under an hour with just a wrench and a little YouTube guidance. Faucet cost: $100–$250 Go for one with a high arc and a built-in sprayer you’ll thank yourself later when you're rinsing that massive pasta pot. 5. Open Shelving for That “Pinterest Kitchen” Look Removing a few cabinet doors (or a whole cabinet or two if you’re brave) and replacing them with open shelving is a cool way to make your kitchen feel more open and trendy. Just make sure the stuff you put on those shelves is, you know, pretty. Think cute mugs, plants, nice dishware, maybe even a tiny herb garden. Open shelving cost: $100–$300 Want to keep it super budget? Keep the existing shelves and just take off the cabinet doors. Boom. Open shelving with zero spend. 6. Flooring That Doesn’t Break the Bank Can you get new flooring under $5K? You bet-especially if your kitchen is small. Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) are your best friend. They look like wood, are easy to install, and are practically indestructible. Waterproof, too perfect for all the spills and dropped pasta you never talk about. Flooring cost: $300–$1,000 (DIY install = major savings) You can also look into peel-and-stick vinyl tiles for an even cheaper option. Just make sure the subfloor is clean and dry before you get going. 7. Countertop Touch-Ups Granite and quartz are pricey, but butcher block is budget-friendly and stylish. It brings warmth to the kitchen and works well with both farmhouse and modern styles. Or, if you’re really tight on cash, try a countertop refinishing kit. They cost around $100 and can give old laminate counters a whole new look. Countertop refinishing kit: $70–$150 Butcher block countertop (IKEA or Home Depot): $150–$500 Seriously, you’ll look at your “new” counters and go, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?!” 8. Light Fixtures That Wow You’ve probably been living with that same boob light (yep, I said it) on your ceiling for years. Time to say goodbye. Pendant lights over your island or dining table, under-cabinet lighting, or even a stylish flush-mount fixture can make your kitchen feel cozier and more polished. Lighting upgrade cost: $50–$300 (DIY install if you're confident or hire an electrician if not) Look for energy-efficient LED bulbs while you’re at it. Save money now and later. 9. Reface, Don’t Replace Cabinets New cabinets can eat your entire $5K in one bite. But refacing or repainting? That’s a different story. You can repaint your existing cabinet boxes and just replace the doors and drawer fronts. It’s cheaper, faster, and less messy than ripping everything out. Cabinet refacing cost: $1,000–$2,500 (DIY painting = $100–$300) Even just changing the color from dark cherry to soft white can make your kitchen feel brand new. 10. Declutter Like a Minimalist Boss Okay, this one’s totally free and weirdly satisfying. Get rid of anything you haven’t used in a year. Toss the mystery gadgets. Clear off your countertops. Less stuff = more space = more peace. Cost: Free (unless you treat yourself to new organizers, which is totally allowed) If you want to take it up a notch, organize your pantry using clear bins or lazy Susans. It’s an Instagram-worthy look and makes your life easier. 11. Cleaning Hack: Baking Soda + Vinegar = Magic You don’t need a cabinet full of fancy cleaners to make your kitchen sparkle. A little baking soda and vinegar can do wonders for grimy sinks, sticky stovetops, and crusty microwave explosions. Microwave cleaner hack: Fill a bowl with water + vinegar Microwave for 5 minutes Wipe away all the gunk like a wizard Sink drain refresher: Dump in baking soda Pour in vinegar Let it fizz, then flush with hot water Kitchen cleaning is way more tolerable when the results are this satisfying. 12. Air Duct Cleaning—It’s a Thing Here’s one that flies under the radar: air duct cleaning. Sounds boring, right? But it can make a massive difference, especially in your kitchen. If you’ve ever scrubbed your counters spotless and still felt like the air smells… off? Like a weird mix of old grease and forgotten leftovers? Yeah, your air ducts might be the sneaky culprit. Over time, dust, smoke, and cooking particles build up in your vents. When that air circulates, so does all that grime. A professional air duct cleaning every few years can seriously improve the air quality in your home, making your kitchen feel fresher and cleaner without lifting another sponge. It’s not the flashiest fix — you won’t post a before-and-after pic of your vents on Instagram — but it’s 100% worth it. Expect to pay around $300–$500 depending on your home size and setup. Think of it as a deep breath for your house. Fresh air, less dust, and no lingering bacon smells from last month’s brunch? Yes, please. 13. Upgrade Your Trash Can (Seriously) You know how some people get irrationally excited about new planners or vacuum cleaners? That’s how I feel about trash cans. A sleek, hands-free stainless steel model makes your kitchen feel next-level clean and high-tech. Cost: $50–$150 You’d be surprised how much one fancy trash can upgrades your whole vibe. 14. Add a Rug or Runner Hard floors can feel cold and echoey. A washable rug or runner adds warmth, color, and comfort. Plus, it hides all the imperfections you don't have the budget to fix right now. Cost: $50–$150 (Bonus points for one that’s machine washable) Place it by the sink or stove for extra cozy cooking vibes. 15. Plants, Art, and Personal Touches Don't forget the finishing touches that make a space feel like yours. A hanging plant, a framed print, or a letterboard with your favorite quote adds personality without costing much. Cost: $20–$100 Even a cute bowl of lemons on the counter adds a little joy. Budget Breakdown Example: $5K Remodel Let’s say you’re trying to keep your total cost under $5,000. Here’s a sample budget you could follow: Upgrade Estimated Cost Cabinet paint + hardware $300 Peel-and-stick backsplash $150 Butcher block countertop $500 New faucet $150 Pendant light fixture $200 Vinyl plank flooring $800 Open shelving $200 Cleaning supplies + organizers $100 Rug, plants, décor $150 Air duct cleaning $350 Labor (for flooring/light/faucet) $1,000 TOTAL $3,900 That gives you $1,100 left for extras or unexpected costs. Or hey, maybe a fancy dinner to celebrate your new kitchen. You earned it. Ready to Remodel? You don’t need to spend $50K to have a beautiful, fresh kitchen. Sometimes all it takes is some paint, elbow grease, smart shopping, and a little creativity. Whether you tackle one project at a time or go all in on a weekend DIY blitz, every little change adds up. And the best part? You’ll see and feel the difference every single day.

by Sara M Hey friend! Let’s talk about something that doesn’t usually sound exciting- cleaning . Yeah, I know. Not the sexiest topic, but hear me out. What if I told you that rolling up your sleeves and doing a few DIY cleaning projects around the house could boost your home’s value by at least $10,000? I’m serious. You don’t need a massive renovation budget or a team of contractors. Some of the most valuable upgrades you can make are super simple, super cheap, and often overlooked. Let’s get into it. I’ve rounded up the easiest DIY cleaning fixes that’ll make your home sparkle, shine, and sell for way more than you thought possible. 1. Deep Clean Your Kitchen (Hello, Grimy Cabinets) Okay, the kitchen is the heart of the home, right? But it’s also where grease, crumbs, and mystery gunk like to hang out. Buyers always notice when the kitchen feels dirty even if it’s just surface-level stuff. Here’s what to do: Take a degreaser and give your cabinets a real scrub. Years of sticky buildup can make them look older than they are. Remove everything from the fridge and give it a full wipe-down. Don’t forget under the sink. Buyers peek there! If your backsplash is grimy or stained, give it a steam clean. It’s surprisingly satisfying. Why it matters: A clean kitchen signals that the home’s been taken care of. It adds perceived value, and buyers feel like they’re walking into a “move-in ready” space. 2. Power Wash the Exterior (Because Curb Appeal Is Real) First impressions aren’t just for dates; they're crucial when selling a home. Rent (or borrow) a power washer and blast away years of dirt, algae, and grime from: Siding Brick Walkways Driveways Decks Fences You’ll be amazed at the difference. It literally makes your home look newer. Pro tip: Don’t forget the front door and shutters. A clean, bold front entry can add thousands in value with just a few hours of work. 3. Scrub the Baseboards and Trim (Yes, It’s Worth It) You probably don’t notice your baseboards unless you drop something. But potential buyers do. Clean, bright trim and baseboards make your home look polished even if nothing else has changed. How to do it: Mix warm water, dish soap, and a dash of vinegar. Use a microfiber cloth or old toothbrush. Add a Magic Eraser to your toolkit for scuffs and stains. It’s tedious, but the result is a chef’s kiss . 4. Declutter and Deep Clean the Closets Let’s be honest: we all have that closet that looks like it exploded. But buyers love storage, and overflowing closets scream not enough space . So, here’s your game plan: Purge what you don’t need. Wipe down all surfaces—shelves, rods, floors. Use matching hangers if you’re selling. It creates a boutique vibe. Add lighting if it’s dark. Even a battery-powered LED helps. A neat, clean closet makes people think, I could totally live here. 5. Clean the Windows—Inside and Out There’s something about sparkling clean windows that just hits differently. Natural light flows better, the house looks brighter, and everything feels fresh. Supplies you’ll need: A squeegee (worth the few bucks) White vinegar and water Microfiber cloths or newspaper for a streak-free finish If you’ve got screens, remove and rinse those too. Trust me this makes a bigger impact than you’d expect. 6. Refresh Grout and Tile (It’s Not As Hard As You Think) Dirty grout makes even the nicest tile look… gross. But don’t stress, it's easier to fix than it seems. Try this DIY mix: Baking soda + hydrogen peroxide = miracle paste Scrub with a toothbrush (or a grout brush if you’re fancy) Seal it with a cheap grout sealer so it stays clean longer You’ll feel like you remodeled the bathroom or kitchen with just elbow grease. 7. Clean Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans When’s the last time you looked up ? Dusty ceiling fans and light fixtures are one of those sneaky things that drag down a home’s vibe. Use a pillowcase to clean fan blades without showering dust all over the room. Wipe down pendant lights, chandeliers, and sconces. Replace dim or yellowing bulbs with daylight LEDs. It makes your spaces feel brighter, cleaner, and more expensive. 8. Shine Up the Appliances Even if you’re taking your appliances with you, dirty ones leave a bad impression. Tips: Use a stainless steel cleaner or a DIY mix of vinegar and olive oil. Take out the oven racks and give them a bath. Run a vinegar rinse through the dishwasher and washing machine. For a little extra sparkle, polish the handles and knobs. People notice those things. 9. Touch-Up Paint After Cleaning Walls Sometimes a full paint job isn’t necessary. Just clean your walls with a damp cloth (and maybe a little diluted dish soap), then touch up scuffed areas with leftover paint. Pay special attention to: Hallways Entryways Around light switches Doors and door frames Fresh, clean walls go a long way toward making your home feel updated. 10. Freshen Up the Floors Let’s talk about floors. Whether you have carpet, hardwood, tile, or laminate dirty floors make a house feel sad. Carpet: Rent a carpet cleaner or hire someone for a quick shampoo. Old stains and musty smells can turn buyers off fast . Hardwood: Sweep, mop, and polish with a wood-safe product. You’ll be shocked how much better it looks. Tile/Laminate: Mop and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks. Want bonus points? Replace broken tiles or fill in small gaps in the laminate. 11. Clean Out the Dryer Vent Okay, this one’s not glamorous, but it’s super important and could actually save someone’s life down the road. A clogged dryer vent is a major fire hazard. Plus, it makes your dryer work harder, which can increase energy bills. You can DIY this with a vent brush or a vacuum attachment. Or you can call in professionals who offer dryer vent cleaning services if it looks gnarly. Either way, it’s a low-effort fix that makes your home safer and more efficient both huge selling points. 12. Detail the Garage (Yes, Really) A clean garage can be the tipping point for buyers who love their tools, cars, or hobbies. Quick wins: Sweep out dust and cobwebs. Hose down oil stains. Wipe down shelves and storage bins. Donate or toss unused junk. Bonus points if you hang up tools and give it that “organized workshop” feel. 13. Freshen Up the Air (People Smell Everything) You get nose-blind to your own house, but guests don’t. So before showings or just to feel good at home clean the air. Here’s how: Open windows when possible Change HVAC filters Use baking soda on carpets and soft surfaces Simmer cinnamon sticks or lemon slices on the stove Run an essential oil diffuser for a subtle fresh scent Skip the overpowering plug-ins. Clean should smell like… nothing, or maybe just a hint of citrus. 14. Clean Behind (and Under) Everything If you’re selling or just trying to boost value, now’s the time to go deep. Pull out the fridge. Clean under the couch. Vacuum behind the TV stand. It’s a little gross, sure but these hidden zones collect years of dust and dirt. Once you clean them, your home just feels better. It’s the kind of clean people can’t quite put their finger on, but they feel it. 15. Don’t Forget the Details Sometimes it’s the little things that really make a difference. Spend a Saturday doing a deep clean on your home’s “supporting actors”: Light switch plates Door handles AC vents Inside drawers Bathroom fans Window tracks These are the spots people don’t expect you to clean and when they are, it’s a wow moment. So, Can Cleaning Really Add $10K to Your Home? Yep. 100%. Here’s how: You boost perceived value with cleanliness and presentation. You avoid buyer objections like “ugh, this place needs work.” You create the kind of move-in ready vibe that gets top-dollar offers. You make your online listing photos pop , drawing more traffic. And all this can be done for next to nothing, just your time, a few supplies, and maybe a podcast or playlist to keep you company. Final Thoughts (But Not “In Conclusion”—You Get It If you’re thinking about selling, or just want to boost your home’s value for the future, don’t underestimate the power of a deep clean. You don’t have to renovate. You don’t have to spend thousands. You just need a little elbow grease and some good music.

Image via FreePik

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by Sharon Redd A midlife crisis usually occurs between 40 and 60 years old. It may be caused by the realization that you haven’t achieved what you wanted in life and that you may have too little time left to reach your goals. Or it can be the result of trauma, loss or sickness. Whatever the cause, you can turn this often painful experience into an opportunity to start anew by implementing one or all three of these strategies, presented by the Miamisburg Historical Society . Let Your Emotions Out Psychologists warn that repressing feelings isn’t good for one’s mental health. If you have worries that regularly gnaw at you, set aside a few minutes each day to think about them, then let them go. If wars and other catastrophes you see in the news make you fearful, angry or anxious, use the same technique: set aside time to cry or yell, then move on. While you’re spending time in those emotions, try to think u p solutions or come up with things you can do to help. When time is up, turn your mind to something else. You can also channel your emotions and feelings through journaling: put your worries down on paper at the beginning or at the end of each day, then let the m go. If you need more help working through your pain and anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist. Thanks to the availability of telehealth, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your own home to talk to a licensed professional. Get an Emotional Support Animal Did you know that petting an animal releases the same chemicals in your body that hugging a human or breastfeeding a baby does? So if you’re feeling stressed or lonely, consider adopting an emotional support animal. Although many animals can fill this role, adopting a dog affords more opportunities to get out and be social. Find helpful pet care advice for a great harness so you can take your new furry friend out for regular walks and even trips to the neighborhood dog park. It’s important to treat your pup to delicious and nutritious foods, too. This kibble is sure to please because of its high protein content and organic ingredients. Your dog may also benefit from it being grain-free, but check with your vet first before making the switch. Embark on a New Career Path by Starting a Business If you’ve been laid off or if your current job is causing you frustration and anxiety, you may be considering starting your own business, becoming a consultant, or pivoting to a different field altogether. When starting a new company , you may be worried about the costs and tasks involved as well as all the paperwork and legal requirements. To get your new venture off the ground, write a business plan that details your funding needs, financial projections, and business structure. You can then concentrate your efforts on branding and marketing. Let your creative juices flow and design an awesome logo for your newly-formed company using an online logo maker . Make yours stand out from your competitors by making it unique and representative of who you truly are. This burst of creativity may just give you all the energy you need to rebound from your mental slump. Find Places to Volunteer Committing time to an organization you love can be a great way to feel like you have a bigger purpose in this world. Whether you love science and want to tutor kids in STEM subjects, or are passionate about local history and want to volunteer with the Miamisburg Historical Society , find something that gets you fired up and devote some time to it! Move to a New Location After a divorce, the loss of a job, or when all your kids have flown the coop, moving into a new area may be just what the doctor ordered to help you overcome your feelings of sadness and anxiety and keep depression at bay. If you have a particular locale in mind, a place you’ve enjoyed visiting in the past, or a city where your friends and relatives live, look for an apartment or home for rent in the area. Renting is often the preferred option if you’re not sure you want to live somewhere long term. Take into consideration how many bedrooms and bathrooms you’ll need, and if you have pets, make sure they’ll have an easy transition into your new apartment as well. If you suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) , look for a bright place where you'll get to enjoy plenty of sunshine year round - or purchase a sunlight lamp for those dreary winter months. Embrace the Changes in Healthy Ways If you feel stuck at work or at home, think of making major changes to turn things around: launch your own business, adopt an emotional support animal, or move into a new place. But the most important thing is to talk to a therapist so that you have a healthy way to express your feelings. Without acknowledging what you feel, you will not move forward. So take steps to bring positivity and light to your word, so that you can enjoy the next stage of your life. Image via Pixabay

by Joe Rees Only special and unique characters are motivated to make a difference. To launch a successful nonprofit organization, you must be driven and courageous, and you must have a unique vision. If you want to start a nonprofit in Miamisburg take a look at the six simple steps below to get you started, brought to you by the Miamisburg Historical Society . 1. Choose Your Nonprofit Organization's Cause When choosing a cause for your nonprofit, gather evidence from Miamisburg demographics that support the idea that unmet demands exist for your services among the locals. Once you know your nonprofit's cause, select a name that reflects the organization's mission. Next, begin the process of choosing your company's leadership. In Ohio, three people must serve on the board of directors. You'll also need to select a permanent Ohio resident to act as the nonprofit's registered agent and to accept service of process and other legal documents on the organization's behalf under Ohio law. 2. File Ohio Articles of Incorporation After you submit your Articles of Incorporation , your organization will only become a legitimate entity in Miamisburg. You can file articles of incorporation via mail or the internet in Ohio, and it usually takes three to seven business days to process. You can also hand-deliver your application in person and pay an extra fee for same-day or same-hour processing if you're in a hurry to complete this stage. 3. Establish Nonprofit Bylaws The bylaws of your organization serve as a foundation and a guide. Draft bylaws that specify your operating procedures. This covers the corporation's governance structure, the frequency of board meetings, voting procedures, and conflict-of-interest policies. 4. Get Your Financial Administration in Order Your organization has to apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the Internal Revenue Service. If you're launching a small organization and don't anticipate raising more than $50,000 in the first 3 years, you must submit Form 1023-EZ . You'll also need to file with the Ohio Department of Taxation. To legally operate as a nonprofit in Miamisburg, you must register with the state of Ohio's Attorney General's office and then submit an annual report. In addition, your organization must have a separate bank account for fundraising purposes. This is one of the state's requirements. 5. Secure Grants and Donations Suppose your organization is structured as a nonprofit. In that case, applying for different grants and other forms of public assistance is considerably more straightforward. You'll need to fill in the funder's application form. This is typically a lengthy document with thorough justifications for the causes, initiatives, and spending plans your organization is looking to fund. 6. Utilizing Social Media to Build a Network and Secure Donations Using social media is the most affordable and efficient way to build awareness of your nonprofit and secure donations. For instance, tools online let you create a Facebook ad that utilizes premade designs that you can customize with your logo, brand colors, fonts, and text. Plus, downloading your finished Facebook ad takes place instantaneously. Change the World for the Better Starting a nonprofit organization can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be costly; social media provides the most efficient and effective means of securing donations. Visit the Miamisburg Historical Society to learn more about Miamisburg OH, and its history.

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by Joe Rees There is no better way to give back and make a change than to start with your own community. Whether you've lived in your town your entire life or just moved there, you can join with others to make a difference. If you're looking for ideas, consider these easy ways you can contribute. 1. Canvas for Voter Registration Voting is a vital component of being an active member of any community. A surprising number of people are unaware of local government elections going on in their own communities. Spreading awareness and making the voter registration process easier for people is a great way to get them involved in their own communities. Join an online forum to see if any groups are already canvassing voters and volunteer to help. 2. Connect With the Historical Society Learning the history of your town is a great way to be part of the community. Talk to a local organization such as the Miamisburg Historical Society about ways you can contribute. You could make a donation or become a member or sponsor. Members often have exclusive access to events and merchandise. You could even spearhead an event of your own, such as saving a historical landmark, as you make a name for yourself. 3. Plan a Fundraising Event If you're trying to bring awareness to a specific cause in your town, plan a fundraising event to make it happen. Include other businesses and members of the community to show support for local business owners. Remember to be transparent about where you intend to send the funds and why. 4. Become a Teacher If you've considered going back to school to complete a postgraduate degree, think about becoming a teacher. You can use an online master's in education program to give you the freedom to continue working and complete school around your own schedule. You'll learn the skills you need and qualify yourself for a higher salary. If you put your heart into it, you'll change the lives of the children you teach. 5. Create a Nonprofit Nonprofit organizations can support a great cause by gaining access to public funding . If you have a cause in mind, consider creating a nonprofit. When you form the corporation, you'll need to create your company bylaws to show how you intend to govern the company. For example, how will you structure your board of directors? How will voting work? What are your rules on weeding out conflicts of interest? One study shows that bylaws help to keep the company organized and provide you with guidelines to stay on track as new considerations arise. 6. Having a Clothing Drive Helping provide clothing for people in need is a great cause, especially in communities with extreme weather. Find a local business partner to help you make the clothing drive take off. Build a team of volunteers to help organize the event. Identify the details of your drive, including where you intend to pick up donations and how you plan to distribute them. Keep people up to date with progress online. You can create a webpage and social media pages for the event. Giving back is something you can do continuously. As you get more involved in the community, you'll find more opportunities to make a difference. You may even turn it into a career. Image via Pexels