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Finding Inner Strength: Embracing Life When Times Get Tough

There are ways around all of these. You are not alone.

How are things going for you lately?

At times, life can be challenging, and situations may leave us feeling overwhelmed and defeated. However, it is during these moments that we have the opportunity to tap into our inner strength and find the resilience needed to move forward.

Let’s look at different strategies that can help an individual find the strength to live and thrive when faced with tough circumstances.

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions

When faced with difficult situations, it’s essential to acknowledge and accept the emotions you are experiencing. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or frustrated. Allow yourself to process these emotions, as denying or suppressing them can hinder your ability to move forward. Embracing your emotions allows you to release them and create space for healing and growth.

2. Cultivate a Supportive Network

Seeking support from others is a powerful way to find strength during challenging times. Surround yourself with a network of friends, family, or support groups who understand and empathize with your struggles. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with trusted individuals can provide comfort, guidance, and fresh perspectives. Remember, you don’t have to face difficulties alone.

Vivien in African bottom. What a combo!


3. Practice Self-Compassion

Be gentle and kind to yourself as you navigate through tough situations. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging that you are doing the best you can under the circumstances. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a loved one. Allow yourself moments of self-care, whether it’s taking a walk in nature, enjoying a hobby, or simply giving yourself permission to rest. By nurturing yourself, you replenish your inner strength and resilience.

4. Focus on the Present Moment

When facing challenging circumstances, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by past regrets or future uncertainties. Instead, shift your focus to the present moment. Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help anchor you in the here and now. By being present, you allow yourself to observe your situation objectively and make decisions based on what is within your control.

5. Find Meaning and Purpose

Difficult times often provide an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. Consider the lessons you can learn from your current situation. Reflect on your values, passions, and goals. Rediscover your purpose and align your actions with what truly matters to you. By finding meaning in your circumstances, you empower yourself to overcome adversity and emerge stronger.

6. Set Realistic Goals and Take Small Steps

When faced with tough situations, it can be overwhelming to think about the future. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, more manageable steps. By focusing on achievable tasks, you build momentum and gain a sense of accomplishment along the way. Celebrate each small victory, knowing that every step forward brings you closer to a brighter future.

7. Seek Professional Help if Need be

Sometimes, the challenges we face require more support than our personal network can provide. Professionals give information from knowledge gained through trainings and extensive researches. Your friends or relatives might not know all of that. If you find yourself struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Mental health professionals, therapists, or counsellors can offer guidance, tools, and strategies tailored to your specific needs. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and it can be a crucial step towards regaining control of your life.

Conclusion

Finding the strength to move on and live when situations appear tough is a journey that requires self-compassion, support from others, and a focus on personal growth. Remember that tough times do not define you. By acknowledging your emotions, cultivating a supportive network, practicing self-compassion, staying present, finding meaning, setting realistic goals, and seeking professional help if needed, you can tap into your inner strength and embrace life’s challenges with resilience and determination. You have the power within you to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity.

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Let’s grow together

Viviensvoice 🧡

Mid-Year Check-In: Are You on Track With Your Goals?

Time to pause and check how your year has been so far

It is that time of the year again. We have reached the midpoint of the year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and evaluate our progress towards our goals. The goals we set at the beginning of the year may have felt ambitious and full of promise, but now is the moment to assess where we stand.

Let’s take a look at the importance of conducting a mid-year check-in and provide insights on how to realign and refocus to ensure you stay on track with your goals.

Vivien Ayinotu on a Sunday after church.

1. Reflect on Your Initial Goals

Start by revisiting the goals you set at the beginning of the year. Take a moment to review what you wanted to achieve and why those goals were important to you. Reflect on the progress you have made thus far, celebrating any accomplishments along the way. Acknowledge any areas where you may have fallen short and consider the reasons behind it. This reflection will provide a clear understanding of where you stand today.

2. Evaluate Your Progress

Once you have a clear picture of your initial goals, it’s time to evaluate your progress. Assess the milestones you have reached and the actions you have taken towards your goals. Look for patterns or trends that may have emerged. Consider the obstacles or challenges you encountered and how you overcame them. This evaluation will help you identify what has been working well and what areas may require adjustment or additional effort.

3.Reassess and Prioritize

After evaluating your progress, it’s essential to reassess your goals and priorities. Are your initial goals still relevant and aligned with your current aspirations? Consider whether circumstances or priorities have shifted throughout the year. You may find that some goals need to be modified, replaced, or even discarded. Be honest with yourself about what truly matters to you and where you want to direct your focus for the remainder of the year.

4. Break Down Your Goals

If you discover that you are off track with your goals, don’t be discouraged. Break down your goals into smaller and actionable steps. This approach allows you to create a roadmap that guides your actions moving forward. By breaking down your goals, you make them more manageable and increase your chances of success. Each small step you take brings you closer to the ultimate achievement.

5. Create a Plan and Set Milestones

With your refined goals in mind, it’s time to create a plan of action. Outline the specific steps you need to take to reach your goals and set realistic deadlines for each milestone. Make sure your plan is flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or potential roadblocks. By having a well-defined plan, you gain clarity and focus, making it easier to stay on track and measure your progress.

6. Seek Accountability and Support

Accountability plays a crucial role in achieving our goals. Share your revised goals and action plan with someone you trust—a friend, family member, or mentor—who can provide support and hold you accountable. Regular check-ins with your accountability partner can help you stay motivated and on course. Additionally, consider joining a community or group of like-minded individuals who share similar goals. The collective support and shared experiences can be incredibly empowering.

7. Stay Focused and Adapt

As you continue your journey towards your goals, it’s important to stay focused and committed. However, be prepared to adapt as needed. Life is dynamic, and circumstances may change unexpectedly. Embrace flexibility and be willing to adjust your plans if necessary. Remember that progress is not always linear, and setbacks or detours can provide valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.

Conclusion

The midpoint of the year presents an ideal opportunity to assess an individual’s progress, realign goals, and refocus efforts. By reflecting on initial goals, evaluating your progress, reassessing and prioritizing, breaking down goals, creating a plan, seeking accountability and support, and staying adaptable it enables one to make the most of remainder of the year. Use this mid-year check-in as a springboard for renewed motivation and determination to achieve the goals that matter most to an individua. It’s never too late to course-correct and make significant strides towards your aspirations.

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Yvonne Nelson’s Book; Telling Her Truth

My views on the news regarding Yvonne Nelson’s book

Image Source; Yvonne Nelson Facebook Page

I read about the contents of the newly published book by Yvonne Nelson; a Ghanaian actress. It is no longer news that she revealed so much about her personal life.

It is her story and it upto her to share and at her own time.

Wow! My heart goes out to Yvonne Nelson.It’s her guts to share her story with the world.

How can one not know their real father for that long?

Image Source: Yvonne Nelson Facebook page

Dear parents, please you can do better. Let your kids know their true story. It doesn’t matter if the situation or the personality of the other parent.

Do not allow them live a lie. It is wrong.

We live in a society where you are encouraged to voice out YET when you do so, you are told you shouldn’t have.

How do you preach SPEAK UP whilst you meant SHUT UP?

In the book, she talked about her failed relationships, pregnancy and abortion. She mentioned names of celebrities too.

It is her story. She has lived with them for long now and it’s her choice to share with the world or whom she who she wants.

Do you think she doesn’t know the consequences of such? I doubt.
.

I hope she find some closure, satisfaction or whatever her intents were by speaking her truth.

Celebrities are humans too.

PS: I haven’t read the book yet. I wrote based on information circulating online and on her social media page.


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The Little Girl I Met At Kid’s School Event

Parenting can be fun though tasking. May all hardworking parents endeavour to make it to kids special events. It makes a difference.

Doing Mummy Duties🧡

Hi Lovely people. Hope you have all been good and in good health? I have missed writing often here. Life happens sometimes right?

Parenting and works is not a joke. Anyway, enough of all that. Let me gist you.

I saw this child the other and I felt I should write about her.


We are at kids school event and everyone was in a happy and celebration mood. We had come to watch the kids perform.

It was a fun packed day both for the kids and parents. We got to participate in the race too.
Parents and teachers ran.

Let me tell you what got to me on that very day.
During lunch time, all parents were allowed to go and see or get their kids. The school provided lunch and parents were already told to come with packed lunch too.

Live at the sports event

On going to fetch my daughter, I saw this little girl crying. Something drew my attention to her.

She was not just crying, she was not wearing the colourful shirts like other kids.

I went to her. Her lunch from the school was next to her. I asked why she was crying. She said it was because her parents were not there.

I tried to reassure her and try making her to understand that her parents love her and have a good reason not making it to the occasion. The more I talked she sobed.

I asked if she was hungry and she said no.
I felt for her. Others kids have their parents supporting them but that isn’t her case.

I had some many snacks on me but careful not to offer as I do not know her allergies. However, she said no too.
She was well behaved too.

This incident gave me mixed feelings. I know as parents we need to do our best to provide for our kids.
On the other hand, it is imperative that we mark special events with them. They shouldn’t feel left out.

I do not know the full story so I cannot fault her parents that much.

I hope we are able to work, earn well and still able to make our kids special events.

Those special times matters a lot.

It helps them feel loved and special; which they are.

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Let’s grow together

Viviensvoice

Do Not Overthink Your Situation Than It Already Is

Do not give up yet. God is still God.

I want to dedicate this post to those that are currently experiencing hard times.

To those that situations make them wonder if God truly exist.

To those who have concluded that God is partial.

To those that only experience agony.

To those that have gone from one trying moment to another and is not ending soon.

To those that found themselves in a hopeless situation.

To that flood their pillows at night.

To that that truly want God to prove that He still exist in their lives.

Guess what?

I want you all to know that even when it appears all bleak that God truly does exists.

I can agree with you that the doubt is there.

However, GOD IS STILL GOD and exists.

There is no situation bigger than God.

God is for all.

He is not partial.

Your situation will turn around.

Hang in there.

Seek His face the more.

Chances are He is preparing you for the unforseen future.

Do not over think your situation more than it already is.

I pray God come through for you sooner than imagined.

May this month of June bless you with more than you had imagined 🧡

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Let’s grow together

Viviensvoice

Navigating the Job Market in a Specific Industry

Hello beautiful people, have you wondered why trying to navigate the job market in a certain industry can be a challenging task? This is because it requires lots of research, networking, and a clear understanding of the industry’s trends, demands and requirements.

We will be looking at various strategies for navigating the job market in a specific industry and how to increase an individual’s chances of finding a job in that in a particular field.

1. Research the industry: Before you start looking for a job in a specific industry, research the industry’s trends, demands, and requirements. Look at industry reports and forecasts, and research the types of companies and organisations that operate in that field.

2. Network: Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a job in a specific industry. Attend industry events and conferences, join professional organisations, and reach out to individuals in the field to build your network.

3. Tailor your resume: Tailor your resume to the specific industry and the type of job you are seeking. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences and make sure that your resume is clear and easy to read.

4. Be flexible: Be open to different types of roles and opportunities within the industry. Many people enter the industry in entry-level or support roles, and work their way up over time.

5. Enhance your skills: Enhance your skills and knowledge by taking relevant courses or certifications, or by gaining experience through internships or volunteer work.

6. Use online resources: Utilise online resources such as job search engines, industry-specific job boards, and professional networking sites to find job openings. Also, research on companies that operate in the industry and check their career page for open positions.

7. Get your foot in the door: Consider taking an entry-level or support role to get your foot in the door of the industry. This can give you the opportunity to gain experience, learn about the industry, and make valuable connections.

8. Be persistent: Finding a job in a specific industry can be a long and challenging process. Be persistent and don’t give up on your job search. Keep applying, networking, and learning new skills to increase your chances of finding a job in the industry.

In conclusion, navigating the job market in a specific industry requires research, networking, and a clear understanding of the industry’s trends, demands and requirements. To increaseyour chances of finding a job in the industry, research the industry, network, tailor your resume, be flexible, enhance your skills, use online resources, and get your foot in the door.

Above all, be persistent and don’t give up on your job search. With the right approach and
mindset, you can find the job you want in the industry you are passionate about it.

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Let’s grow together

Viviensvoice

Supporting the Well-being of Migrant Nurses in the UK: Strategies for Employers

It is important that effective strategies exist which enable employers to support the well-being of migrant nurses working in the UK. This is to enhance job satisfaction and the overall nursing workforce stability.

Migrant nurses play a crucial role in the UK healthcare system, helping to address the nursing shortage and providing valuable skills and diversity. However, they may face unique challenges that can impact their well-being and job satisfaction. Employers must implement certain strategies to support the well-being of migrant nurses, ensuring their success and fostering a stable and content nursing workforce.

Let’s discuss some of the challenges migrant nurses face and offer practical strategies for employers to support their well-being.

Challenges Faced by Migrant Nurses in the UK

  1. Cultural Adaptation

Migrant nurses must navigate cultural differences in both their personal and professional lives, which can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming

2. Language Barriers

Language barriers can hinder effective communication between migrant nurses and their patients or colleagues, potentially affecting their confidence and job satisfaction.

3. Credential Recognition

Migrant nurses often face difficulties in having their qualifications and experience recognized, which may impact their career progression.

4. Social Isolation

Leaving behind their support networks, migrant nurses may experience social isolation and homesickness, which can affect their mental health and well-being.

Strategies for Employers to Support Migrant Nurses’ Well-being

  • Provision of Cultural Competence Training

Offering cultural competence training for all staff can help create a more inclusive work environment and facilitate better understanding between colleagues, enhancing migrant nurses’ sense of belonging and job satisfaction.

  • Implement Language Support Programs

Employers can support migrant nurses by providing language classes, workshops, or access to language resources, fostering better communication, and easing the transition into the UK healthcare system.

  • Facilitate Credential Recognition and Career Development

Supporting migrant nurses in the credential recognition process and providing opportunities for professional development can help them reach their full potential and improve job satisfaction.

  • Encourage Social Integration and Networking

Promoting social events and networking opportunities for migrant nurses can help them build connections with colleagues, reducing feelings of isolation and improving their overall well-being.

  • Establish Mentorship Programs

Pairing migrant nurses with experienced colleagues can provide valuable guidance, support, and insights into navigating the UK healthcare system and adapting to a new cultural context.

  • Offer Mental Health Support

Providing access to mental health support services, such as counselling or employee assistance programs, can help migrant nurses address stress, homesickness, and other challenges that may impact their well-being.

Conclusion

Supporting the well-being of migrant nurses is essential for maintaining a strong and stable nursing workforce in the UK. Employers can play a crucial role in ensuring the success of migrant nurses by implementing strategies that address cultural adaptation, language barriers, credential recognition, social integration, and mental health support. By fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, employers can enhance job satisfaction and well-being for migrant nurses, ultimately benefiting the entire healthcare system.

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Let’s grow together.

Viviensvoice

The Impact of Brexit on Nursing Migration to the UK: Understanding the Shifts and Implications

 

Today, we will be exploring how Brexit has influenced nursing migration to the UK, its effect on the healthcare system, and the potential future of international nursing in the country. 

Brexit, the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union, has had far-reaching consequences on various sectors, including healthcare. One area of particular concern is nursing migration to the UK. This post will discuss the impact of Brexit on nursing migration, its effect on the healthcare system, and what the future may hold for international nursing in the UK.

Brexit and Nursing Migration: Key Changes

  • The End of Free Movement

One of the most significant changes following Brexit is the end of free movement between the UK and EU countries. Previously, EU nurses could easily work in the UK without a visa. However, with the introduction of the new immigration system, EU nurses now face the same immigration requirements as non-EU nurses, making the migration process more challenging.

  • New Points-Based Immigration System

The UK introduced a new points-based immigration system in January 2021. Under this system, international nurses, including those from the EU, must meet specific criteria, such as having a job offer, English language proficiency, and a minimum salary threshold, to be eligible for a visa.

  • Health and Care Worker Visa

As part of the new immigration system, the Health and Care Worker visa was introduced. This visa aims to streamline the process for eligible healthcare professionals, including nurses, to work in the UK. It offers reduced fees and faster processing times compared to other work visas.

Effects of Brexit on the UK Healthcare System

  • The decline in EU Nursing Migration

Since Brexit, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of EU nurses migrating to the UK. The increased immigration requirements and uncertainty surrounding Brexit have deterred some EU nurses from pursuing employment in the country.

  • Increased Reliance on Non-EU Nurses

With a decline in EU nursing migration, the UK has turned to non-EU countries to fill the nursing shortage. This shift has led to an increase in nursing migration from countries such as India, the Philippines, and Nigeria.

  • The strain on the Healthcare System

The decrease in EU nursing migration and the ongoing nursing shortage have placed additional strain on the UK healthcare system. Hospitals and care homes have struggled to maintain adequate staffing levels, potentially impacting the quality of patient care.

So, let’s talk about what the future holds. 

The Future of Nursing Migration to the UK Post-Brexit

Undoubtedly, there will be some impacts. The UK will have to do what they deem fit to sustain itself as a country. This will include the following: 

  • Continued Reliance on International Nurses

Despite the challenges brought on by Brexit, the UK will likely continue to rely on international nurses to address the nursing shortage. The Health and Care Worker visa and other initiatives demonstrate the country’s commitment to attracting qualified healthcare professionals.

  • Investing in Domestic Talent

To ensure a sustainable healthcare workforce, the UK must invest in domestic talent by increasing funding for nursing education and training and improving working conditions to retain existing nursing staff.

  • Strengthening Global Partnerships

Post-Brexit, the UK must continue to build and maintain strong partnerships with both EU and non-EU countries to facilitate the exchange of healthcare professionals and promote nursing migration.

The Royal Marsden Manual of Clinical Nursing Procedures, Student Edition, 10th Edition (Royal Marsden Manual Series)

Conclusion

Brexit has undeniably impacted nursing migration to the UK, leading to a decline in EU nursing migration and increased reliance on non-EU nurses. To maintain a robust healthcare system, the UK must continue to invest in domestic talent while fostering global partnerships to support nursing migration. By adapting to the post-Brexit landscape and addressing these challenges, the UK can ensure a sustainable and diverse nursing workforce that meets the needs of its population.

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Let’s grow  together 

Viviensvoice

Reasons Why International Nurses are Better off in the UK

You will benefit more by practising globally acclaimed nursing in the UK

Are you an international nurse that wants a better working environment and much higher earnings too? This is post is for you.

The aging population in the UK is on the increase. As a result, it puts a strain on the UK healthcare; The NHS. There is long waiting time in Accident and emergency units. Nurses available overwork themselves and sometimes break down and require care. This implies that more hands are needed.

I will share with you why working as a nurse in the UK is a better option for you as a international nurse.

1. The UK has a shortage of nurses, and this shortage is expected to keep growing as the years go by. Nurses have remained in the occupation shortage list in the UK for a while now.

2. Globally, UK nurses are exceptionally skilled, well experienced and sought after globally. The UK experience is nothing less than first class care.

3. In the UK, there is a better quality of life and safer working environment for nurses.

4. Regarding career development, UK provides nurses with numerous opportunities to advance in their different career pathways. There are lots of trainings, sponsorships, education and secondments available.

5. It is important to note that UK is a quite a safe and a welcoming country. It serves as home for nurses from all over the world.

Guess what?

Nothing remains same for long in the UK. I will show a guide on the steps to be taken to become an overseas nurse in the UK.

Here it is. More so, information regarding challenges that can be encountered during the process can be found here too.

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Let’s grow together

Viviensvoice

 

The Connection Between Sleep And Our Overall Health

Sleep plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being. Do you know that during sleep our bodies repair and rejuvenate, and our minds process and consolidate memories?

I will like us to explore the connection between sleep and overall health, and why getting adequate sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

1. Physical health: Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining physical health. During sleep, the body repairs and regenerates cells, tissues, and organs, and helps to maintain a healthy immune system. Lack of sleep has been linked to a number of health issues such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer.

2. Mental health: Sleep is also essential for maintaining mental health. During sleep, the brain processes and consolidates memories, and helps to regulate emotions and mood. Lack of sleep has been linked to a number of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.

3. Weight management: Sleep is also important for weight management. Studies have shown that people who get adequate sleep are less likely to be overweight or obese. This is because sleep deprivation disrupts hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, leading to increased cravings for high-calorie foods.

4. Cognitive function: Adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive function. It helps to improve memory and learning, and enhances decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity. Lack of sleep can lead to impaired cognitive function and difficulty with attention, concentration, and memory.

5. Safety: Sleep is important for safety. Sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to be involved in accidents and injuries, both on the job and while driving.

6. Quality of life: Overall, getting adequate sleep is essential for maintaining a good quality of life. It helps to improve mood, energy levels, and overall well-being, allowing us to be more productive, focused, and engaged in our daily activities.

Additionally, good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and electronic devices before bedtime, and creating a comfortable sleep environment, can help improve the quality of sleep and overall health.

In conclusion, the connection between sleep and overall health is clear. Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining physical and mental health, weight management, cognitive function, safety and overall quality of life. It is important to prioritise sleep and make it a regular part of our daily routine. By understanding the importance of sleep and making the necessary adjustments to our lifestyle, we can improve our overall health and well being.

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Let’s grow together

Viviensvoice