Secrets of Success

Stop Junk Mail from Taking Over

I keep my paper shredder and recycle bin in the garage, so when I come in with the mail I can immediate sort, shred, and deal with my mail all at once. (I pay all of my bills online, so it's rare to receive REAL mail now!)

It's saving so much frustration and clutter, since only the mail I want is coming in the house!

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps

These soaps are fantastic for sensitive skin, and a bargain!

The liquid soap can be diluted with water (and should be, if you're putting it in a pump bottle!) and used for hand or body soap, and the oils will keep your skin soft all winter.

Grocery Delivery!

This is completely counter-intuitive, but I'm saving a ton of money by having our groceries delivered by Peapod instead of going to the store. The prices are similar, most sales are the same, and I can still use coupons. But by virtue of me staying out of the store -- zero impulse buying! -- I'm forced to stick to the list. My grocery bill has dropped about 25%.

A nice little benefit is that I can spend the hour I used to spend in the grocery store RUNNING!

Planning Ahead

This week I went through a favorite cookbook, pulled out 5 recipes that look interesting, and purchased all of the ingredients I need when I did my grocery shopping. I have healthy, easy meals planned all week!

I also prepare a couple of work lunches at a time, so I don't have to deal with it every single night. It takes just an extra minute to make 2 at a time, and I save so much time the next night.

Morning Workouts

If you find it hard to wake up and get ready for a workout... either sleep in your workout clothes or workout in your pajamas. Just throw on socks and sneakers and you're ready!