The First Painting That Changed My Life

I still remember the moment I picked up a paintbrush and dipped it into that light, watercolour paint. It wasn’t just color on a canvas — it was emotion, healing, and freedom bottled up in a single moment.

At the time, I wasn’t painting to sell or to share online. I was simply trying to find myself again. Life felt heavy, and I was searching for something that made me feel alive. That first painting wasn’t perfect — the colors bled, the shapes were awkward — but something inside me shifted. I created something. And that something sparked a fire I didn’t know I had. Watercolouring is the hardest medium to start as an artist.

As I layered each brushstroke, I felt like I was peeling back the weight I’d been carrying for years. It was raw, real, and mine. That painting didn’t just hang on my wall — it reminded me that art can be therapy, even if you’ve never painted before. And with deep seated creatives we need to release that feeling within and for some of us painting is the tool while for others it maybe gardening, sculpting, woodwork etc.

Today, my watercolour art is more than just a creative outlet. It’s a reflection of my journey, my healing, and my voice. That first painting taught me that imperfection is powerful — and beauty often blooms when we least expect it. Always remember beauty is in the hand of the beholder.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of what’s next, I hope this inspires you to try something creative — even messy. You never know what masterpiece might be waiting inside you.

🎨 Top 5 Acrylic Painting Techniques I Swear By

Whether you're new to acrylics or you've been slinging paint for years, discovering new techniques can reignite your creativity. Over time, I’ve experimented, learned from mistakes, and found a few methods that have become my absolute go-tos. Today, I’m sharing the top 5 acrylic painting techniques I swear by—each one brings a unique flavor to my work and might just become a favorite in your art journey too!

1. Dry Brushing for Texture and Detail

Dry brushing is a game-changer. It gives you control over highlights, scratches, and subtle texture. I use a stiff, dry brush with very little paint on it and drag it lightly across the canvas. It’s perfect for creating weathered effects, adding movement in landscapes, or layering fur in animal portraits.

✨ Tip: Use it last to bring out the final shine or depth in your painting.

2. Layering and Glazing for Depth

Acrylics dry fast, which is perfect for layering. I build my paintings slowly—layer by layer—starting with a mid-tone base, adding shadows, and finishing with highlights. Sometimes I use glazing: mixing a bit of paint with glazing medium to create translucent layers.

✨ Why I love it: This creates dimension and glow, especially when you want to make colors pop without starting over.

3. Palette Knife for Bold and Expressive Texture

If I want to get bold, I ditch the brush and go for a palette knife. It helps me apply thick paint and create sharp edges or abstract strokes. It’s especially great for florals, cityscapes, and impasto effects. See here.

✨ Bonus: It makes the painting feel alive and adds tactile interest you can literally feel.

4. Sponge Technique for Backgrounds

Using a sponge (or even a crumpled paper towel) helps me create soft, cloudy, or atmospheric backgrounds. This technique is fantastic for skies, underwater scenes, or dreamy textures. It adds an organic look that brushes can’t always achieve.

✨ Pro Tip: Dab lightly and layer colors gradually—you’ll get beautiful depth with minimal effort.

5. Splattering for Energy and Movement

Sometimes a painting needs a little chaos—and that’s where splattering comes in! I thin the acrylic paint just a bit and flick it from a brush or toothbrush to create spontaneous droplets. It works beautifully for starry skies, floral bursts, or expressive abstracts.

✨ Reminder: Cover areas you want to keep clean and practice splattering on scrap paper first.

Final Thoughts 💡

These are my tried-and-true acrylic painting techniques that never let me down. I mix and match them depending on the subject and mood I’m after. Painting is all about exploration—so I hope you’ll try some of these methods in your own art.

Why Junk Journaling is the ultimate form of Self Care

Why Junk Journaling is the Ultimate Form of Self-Care

In a fast-paced world where our minds are constantly bombarded by screens, deadlines, and never-ending to-do lists, finding a moment of peace can feel impossible. That’s where junk journaling comes in — a creative, mindful practice that not only helps you express yourself but also nurtures your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Here’s why junk journaling may just be the ultimate form of self-care.

1. It's a Creative Outlet That Heals

Junk journaling allows you to freely express your emotions without the pressure of being “perfect.” You can paint, glue, doodle, write, or paste anything that resonates with you — ticket stubs, dried flowers, magazine clippings, or even fabric. This creative expression is therapeutic. It helps you release pent-up emotions, explore your thoughts, and tap into joy.

Think of it as art therapy without the rules.

2. It Helps You Slow Down and Be Present

In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to live on autopilot. Junk journaling invites you to pause. As you sift through scraps, pick colors, or write down a memory, you're engaging your senses and grounding yourself in the moment. This simple act of slowing down becomes a form of mindfulness — which is key to reducing anxiety and burnout.

3. It Honors Your Story

Junk journaling is a deeply personal experience. Each page tells a part of your story — your dreams, struggles, favorite quotes, or moments of growth. Whether you're writing letters to your future self or documenting little joys, the journal becomes a safe, private space where you are completely seen and heard. And that, in itself, is self-love.

4. It Makes Self-Care Feel Fun and Accessible

Let’s face it — not everyone enjoys meditation or long bubble baths. But cutting, pasting, scribbling, and decorating? That feels like play. Junk journaling brings back the childlike joy of creating, and that makes self-care feel less like a chore and more like a treat.

You don’t need fancy supplies either. Old newspapers, washi tape, receipts, and handwritten notes — they all become part of your healing canvas.

5. It Builds a Habit of Reflection

Self-care isn’t just about pampering. It’s about knowing yourself. Through regular journaling, you begin to notice patterns — what stresses you out, what makes you smile, how far you’ve come. This self-awareness is powerful. It helps you make better decisions, set boundaries, and show up more intentionally in life.

Final Thoughts: A Gentle Ritual for Your Soul

Junk journaling is more than a hobby. It’s a ritual — one that brings you back to yourself when the world feels loud. It reminds you that you don’t need to be perfect, productive, or polished to be worthy of love and rest. You just need a journal, a few scraps, and a willingness to begin.

So the next time you’re overwhelmed, anxious, or in need of a mental reset, try opening your junk journal. Let your hands do the healing, and let your heart lead the way.

How Junk Journaling Changed My Mental Health Routine

I never thought torn paper, vintage lace, and bits of ribbon would become part of my self-care routine—yet here I am, crediting junk journaling for reshaping the way I take care of my mental health.

💭 What Is Junk Journaling?

Before I dive into my story, let me explain for the newcomers: a junk journal is a handmade book filled with scraps, memories, mixed media, ephemera, old pages, and your own personal flair. It can be anything you want—a diary, a sketchbook, a scrapbook, or even a soul-soothing collage space.

And in my case, it became a healing tool.

🌿 From Chaos to Calm: My Mental Health Before

There was a time I felt completely overwhelmed. My mind raced constantly, my emotions felt tangled, and self-care was just another task I never made time for. I tried journaling before, but staring at lined pages and being told to “just write” never really helped me relax.

I needed something more creative… less structured… something that didn’t feel like work.

That’s when I stumbled upon junk journaling.

🎨 The Healing Power of Messy Pages

The first time I sat down with my glue stick, a pile of old envelopes, and scraps of fabric, something shifted. I wasn’t thinking about my to-do list or trying to fix myself—I was simply present. The act of choosing textures, layering paper, and writing small thoughts felt like meditation through art.

Here’s how junk journaling quietly transformed my mental health:

✨ 1. It Slowed Me Down

Life moves fast. My thoughts used to move even faster. But junk journaling made me pause. Ripping paper, choosing colors, and arranging pieces on a page forced me to slow down and focus on one thing at a time. That sense of slowness helped quiet my anxious thoughts.

✨ 2. It Gave Me a Safe Space to Feel

Some days I use my junk journal to write out emotions I can't say aloud. Other days, I just paste colors and images that reflect how I feel inside. There's no pressure to be neat or perfect—and that gave me the freedom to be emotionally honest.

✨ 3. It Boosted My Creativity (and Confidence)

Mental health is deeply connected to creativity. As I created pages I actually loved, I started feeling proud of myself again—even if no one ever saw the journal. It reminded me that I can make beautiful things, and that I’m more than just my bad days.

✨ 4. It Created a Routine I Actually Enjoy

I now look forward to my “me time.” I light a candle, turn on soft music, and bring out my journal. It's become a weekly ritual that grounds me, especially during high-stress moments.

✨ 5. It Helped Me Practice Gratitude

Many of my pages include little notes of gratitude, even if it's just a scribble:
“Today I drank tea in silence and it felt good.”
Those tiny moments of acknowledgment have helped shift my mindset in a powerful way.

🌼 Final Thoughts

Junk journaling isn’t just an art form—it’s a gentle, soulful way to care for yourself.

It doesn’t matter if you're an artist or a beginner. What matters is showing up for yourself in this small, creative way.

If you’ve been struggling to find a mental health routine that feels natural, nurturing, and even fun—give junk journaling a try. It changed my life, and it just might change yours too.

💌 Want a free junk journal starter kit? Download one from my freebies page!

Let me know in the comments—have you tried junk journaling before? How has it helped you?

My Story & the Heart Behind Gafra

Hi Guys, you may not know but my filed is Leadership Development. I coach executives, supervisors and team members to be more productive. One of the key ways to stay productive and get all you need done is to plan, but many people don’t want to take the 10-15 minutes to plan out their day and that’s why it gets chaotic. Part of the program I coach helps people understand how to plan via using a properly laid out planner.

• “Why I Started Gafra”

  So that is why I strated designing and selling Digital Planners. At first it was to give people different choices, with page layouts that help them solve their challenges, but it grew into a fun exercise and being a creative by nature (I’m a self taught acrylic artist and a watercolorist as well) I couldn’t stop. I created one planner after the next and having a tool like Canva made it even easier and more fun

• “From Chaos to Calm – My Planning Journey”

  One thing you must know is that in my business, the founder always says that “ you have to be a product of the product” in other words you have to practice and do what you coach/teach, and that I did. I’m a planner and using diaries that were gifted to my by client companies just weren’t laid out the way I needed them to be, so, I designed my own based on how I know one needs to plan.

• “I Used to Be a Mess... Until This Changed Everything”

  Most people’s lives are chaotic and they give 80% of their time to work. They give of their personal time that should be spent with family or on themselves. I never allowed that. Early I planned my day and followed through. In the early days I wasn’t as structured but when I encountered the company I have a franchise with and did their program, I clearly understood true productivity and proper planning and scheduling. So that I got all I needed completed to time and I tend not to be late for or forget appointments. Planning eases the mind, lowers stress and also makes you feel accomplished when you complete all you wanted to and you achieve the results that you wanted.

Many people are buried under sticky notes, forgotten lists, and missed deadlines. I was always busy—but always organised organized because I wrote down what I needed to do, I had my list and later it became even more organised. Not planning will make you anxious, drained, and stuck in a loop.

That’s when I created the printable planners. One page after the other turned into a system.
That system turned into Gafra — a space to help others stay focused, create freely, and reclaim their time.

Today, I continue to design printable planners, handmade junk journals, and acrylic art to inspire your everyday life—with tools that are both beautiful and practical.

Whether you're organizing your business, home, or creative soul... you're in the right place 🧡

I can't wait to share more with you.

With calm & creativity,
Gail
📌 [Gafra.org]

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Planner Habit

(And How to Actually Stick With It)

Hi Guys, I want to share this with those of you who want to start using a digital planner. So you finally got a beautiful new planner — maybe it’s printable, digital, or handmade — and you’re excited to get organized, stay on top of things, and bring some peace to your day.

But after a week or two… life happens. You stop using it, pages go blank, and you start thinking, “Maybe I’m just not a planner person.”

Don’t give up just yet! If you're trying to build a solid planner habit, here are three common mistakes to avoid — plus how to fix them so your planner actually works for you.

❌ Mistake #1: Trying to Plan Your Entire Life Overnight

You print all the pages, set 15 goals, color-code everything — and suddenly feel overwhelmed. Sound familiar?

💡 The Fix:

Start small. Choose just one area of your life to plan:
→ Your daily to-do list
→ A weekly meal plan
→ A simple habit tracker

Once that feels easy, add more. A good planner habit grows one page at a time.

❌ Mistake #2: Making It Too Perfect

You get caught up in the aesthetics — the perfect handwriting, matching stickers, no mistakes — and then feel stressed using it.

💡 The Fix:

Give yourself permission to be messy. Your planner is for progress, not perfection. Use scratchy pen, cross things out, add doodles — it’s yours! Done is better than perfect.

❌ Mistake #3: Not Making It Part of Your Daily Routine

If your planner lives in a drawer, you’ll forget about it. Consistency is what turns a planner into a habit.

💡 The Fix:

Make it part of your daily rhythm. Choose a set time each day — like morning coffee or just before bed — to check in with your planner. Keep it visible and easy to reach.

💬 Bonus tip: Leave your planner open on your desk or kitchen counter so you see it and use it daily.

✅ Final Thoughts

Building a planner habit isn’t about being perfect — it’s about making your life easier, calmer, and more intentional. By avoiding these common mistakes and giving yourself space to experiment, your planner can become your favorite everyday tool.

💌 Ready to Start Fresh?

Grab my free printable daily Planner to make planning fun and simple.
👉 Sign up here to download it instantly!

The Benefits of Digital Planners to Professionals, Moms & Creatives

Printable Digital Planners are very beneficial for Professionals, Moms and creatives. They are Perfect! Here’s how digital planners can benefit business professionals, moms, and creatives — tailored to their unique lifestyles:

👩‍💼 For Business Professionals

Why they love digital planners:

🗂️ All-in-One Dashboard: Keep calendars, meeting notes, to-do lists, and goals in one easy-to-navigate file.

📱 Sync Across Devices: Access your schedule on your phone, tablet, or computer — perfect for busy days and meetings on the go.

🧠 Boost Productivity: Track KPIs, plan projects, and break down tasks with time-blocking templates.

🖋️ Professional Look: Clean, modern designs that match a corporate environment or personal brand.

Ideal pages: Weekly overview, goal tracker, expense log, meeting notes, CRM contact sheet.

👩‍👧

For Moms (especially busy moms!)

Why they love digital planners:

📅 Family Organizer: Manage school schedules, grocery lists, appointments, and kids’ activities all in one place.

📋 Meal & Chore Planning: Pre-made templates for planning weekly meals, tracking chores, and budgeting.

💆‍♀️ Self-Care Reminders: Include spaces for gratitude journaling, health goals, or wellness check-ins.

🖨️ Printable Flexibility: Print pages for your fridge or command center — or use them digitally during errands.

Ideal pages: Daily planner, meal planner, habit tracker, budget sheet, school calendar.

🎨 For Creatives (artists, writers, designers)

Why they love digital planners:

🧠 Brainstorming Space: Sketch ideas, jot down inspiration, mood boards, and creative prompts.

📆 Project Timelines: Stay on track with content calendars, launch plans, and deadlines.

🖍️ Use Creative Tools: Works beautifully with styluses (like Apple Pencil) for handwritten notes, doodles, or visual planning.

🎨 Aesthetic Appeal: Lots of fun with custom stickers, themes, and color palettes.

Ideal pages: Content planner, creative journal, idea dump, deadline tracker, goal sheet.

Why they love digital planners:

🗂️ All-in-One Dashboard: Keep calendars, meeting notes, to-do lists, and goals in one easy-to-navigate file.

📱 Sync Across Devices: Access your schedule on your phone, tablet, or computer — perfect for busy days and meetings on the go.

🧠 Boost Productivity: Track KPIs, plan projects, and break down tasks with time-blocking templates.

🖋️ Professional Look: Clean, modern designs that match a corporate environment or personal brand.

Ideal pages: Weekly overview, goal tracker, expense log, meeting notes, CRM contact sheet.

👩‍👧

For Moms (especially busy moms!)

Why Use Digital Printable Planners?

Hi Guys, as a Leadership Development Coach, Blogger and Planner designer I coach Executives on how to plan better and focus on having a more structured method of planning to achieve the results or goals set. Here are 7 strong reasons why someone should use a digital planner, especially in today’s fast-paced, tech-friendly world:

BUY THIS PLANNER HERE

✅ 1. Convenience on the Go

You can carry your entire planner on your tablet, phone, or laptop—no bulky notebooks needed. Perfect for people who travel, work remotely, or are always on the move.

✅ 2. Unlimited Customization

Digital planners allow:

• Hyperlinked tabs for easy navigation

• Drag-and-drop elements (like stickers or widgets)

• Copying, deleting, or rearranging pages as needed

✅ 3. Eco-Friendly

No paper waste. Reuse your planner year after year. Great for eco-conscious users who still want to stay organized.

✅ 4. Cost-Effective

Buy once, use forever. Many planners are budget-friendly or even free—no need to repurchase a new book every year.

✅ 5. Instant Access

No shipping, no delays. Download immediately and start planning right away.

✅ 6. Works with Popular Apps

Compatible with apps like:

• GoodNotes

• Notability

• Xodo
  These apps let you write by hand or type, and sync your planner across devices.

✅ 7. Organized & Clutter-Free

Keep everything in one place:

• Calendar

• To-do lists

• Budgets

• Journals
  No loose pages or messy handwriting (unless you want to handwrite digitally!).

What are Digital Printable Planners

Digital printable planners are downloadable files that users can print at home or use digitally (on tablets or devices with apps like GoodNotes or Notability). They’re designed to help with organization, time management, and productivity.

BUY IT HERE

🔍** What Makes Them "Digital Printable"?**

Digital: You receive the planner as a PDF or image file. Printable: You can print the pages out and use them like a traditional paper planner. Reusable: Since it’s a file, you can print as many copies as you need.

📒** Common Types of Digital Printable Planners**

• Daily, Weekly, Monthly Planners
• Goal-setting Planners
• Meal and Fitness Planners
• Budget and Finance Trackers
• Self-care and Mental Wellness Planners
• Student or Business Productivity Planners

🎯 Benefits

Instant download (no waiting for shipping) Affordable (often cheaper than physical planners) Customizable (choose which pages to print or duplicate) Eco-friendly option if used digitally

📌 Example Use Case You might sell a "Small Business Weekly Planner" PDF on your site. A customer buys and downloads it, prints it at home, and uses it to track appointments, goals, and income for their business. Let me know if you'd like help creating or naming your planners!

How to Plan and Grow Your Side Hustle with a Printable Planner

Introduction

So, you’ve got a big dream — to turn your passion into profit, start that Etsy shop, or finally grow your online business. But between juggling your 9–5, family, and figuring out Instagram captions, staying organized can feel impossible.

That’s where a printable side hustle planner becomes your secret weapon.In this post, I’ll show you why using a business planner can completely transform your side hustle journey — and how the Side Hustle Starter Planner can help you get started fast. 📌** Why You Need a Planner for Your Side Hustle** When you're running a business on the side, your time is everything.

A good planner helps you:

• Set clear, realistic goals
• Stay focused (even when you’re tired after work)
• Keep track of your income + expenses
• Plan content ahead of time
• Stay consistent and motivated The more organized you are, the more likely your side hustle will grow into something full-time (and profitable 💰).

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📘** What’s Inside the Side Hustle Starter Planner This 15-page printable PDF was created for creators, freelancers, Etsy sellers, coaches — and anyone chasing a dream.

Here’s what you’ll get:

✅ Goal-Setting Pages Map out your business vision and break it down month by month.

✅ Weekly & Daily Planners Stay productive with weekly focus sheets and daily priority pages.

✅ Social Media Planner Organize your content ideas, captions, hashtags, and calls-to-action.

✅ Money Trackers Keep tabs on every dollar with income, expenses, and sales sheets.

✅ Brand & Customer Worksheets Define your dream customer and build your brand identity.

✅ Bonus: Inspirational Quote Page Stay motivated with cute printable boss babe quotes!

🎁 All pages come in PDF format, perfect for printing or using digitally on your iPad or tablet.

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🌟**** Who This Planner Is For****

This planner is perfect for:

• Women launching a creative business

• Etsy shop owners and digital product sellers

• Content creators, bloggers, influencers

• Freelancers, coaches, and virtual assistants

If you’re ready to turn ideas into income, this planner gives you structure and confidence to keep going — even on busy days.

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💬 What Others Are Saying

“This planner helped me finally stay on track with my content and budget! I love how pretty and simple it is.” — Melissa, Etsy seller

“It’s like having a mini business coach in printable form!” — Tasha, VA & content creator

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🛒 Grab Your Planner Now

Ready to organize your hustle and actually grow your business?

👉 Download the Side Hustle Starter Planner now Only $25.00 — and it’s yours forever!

Start planning like a boss. Your future self will thank you. 💕

The Healing Power of Journaling: A Balm for the Mind and Body

Make it healing movet

Journaling, like an Aloe plant has many benefits and it's great for your health. Every part of it builds you up different parts of your mind and body in some way.

Just as the aloe plant soothes and heals the body with its nurturing properties, the practice of journaling offers a plethora of benefits for both the mind and the body. This simple yet profound activity can serve as a powerful tool for personal growth, emotional well-being, and mental clarity.

• Soothing the Soul: Emotional Release and Catharsis The act of putting pen to paper allows individuals to release their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe and non-judgmental space. This emotional release can foster a sense of catharsis, alleviating the weight of burdensome feelings and promoting a greater sense of inner peace.

• Nurturing Self-Awareness: Mindful Introspection Journaling encourages mindful introspection, enabling individuals to cultivate a deeper understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By examining their inner world with curiosity and compassion, individuals can develop a stronger sense of self-awareness, which in turn promotes personal growth and self-compassion.

• Strengthening Cognitive Function: Exercising the Mind The process of journaling requires individuals to engage their cognitive faculties, including memory, attention, and language skills. Regular journaling can help maintain and enhance these cognitive abilities, contributing to overall mental acuity and resilience.

• Fostering Creativity: Unleashing the Imagination Journaling can serve as a creative outlet, providing a space for individuals to explore their thoughts, ideas, and dreams without limitations. By nurturing their imagination, individuals can enhance their problem-solving abilities, foster innovation, and enrich their overall life experience.

• Boosting Mood and Well-being: A Natural Antidote to Stress The act of journaling has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. By providing a constructive means of processing challenging emotions and experiences, journaling can contribute to improved mood, increased self-esteem, and enhanced overall well-being.

• Enhancing Resilience: Overcoming Obstacles and Embracing Change Journaling can help individuals navigate life's challenges by fostering a growth mindset and promoting adaptive coping strategies. By reflecting on past experiences and examining present circumstances, individuals can cultivate resilience, develop a greater sense of purpose, and embrace change with confidence and clarity.

• Building a Healthy Body Image: Loving One's Self Through the practice of journaling, individuals can explore their relationship with their bodies, challenge negative self-talk, and cultivate a more compassionate and loving attitude towards themselves. By nurturing a positive body image, individuals can enhance their self-esteem, improve their mental health, and foster a greater sense of well-being.

In conclusion, journaling is a versatile and powerful tool for personal growth, emotional well-being, and mental clarity. Much like the aloe plant, which offers soothing relief and healing properties for the body, journaling can provide a balm for the mind and soul, nurturing self-awareness, fostering creativity, and promoting overall health and well-being. By incorporating journaling into their daily routine, individuals can harness the healing power of this simple yet profound practice and experience the myriad benefits it has to offer.

Exploring the Power of Journaling (Cont'd)

Hi Guys,

I’m back with the continuation of the Power of Journaling. Check out the points below:

Why Journal? The Benefits Are Numerous

The benefits of journaling extend far beyond simply recording daily events. Studies have shown that regular journaling can:

• Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Writing about your worries and anxieties can help you process them and gain a sense of control.

• Improve Mood: Journaling can help you identify negative thought patterns and reframe them in a more positive light.

• Enhance Self-Awareness: By regularly reflecting on your thoughts and feelings, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself.

• Boost Creativity: Journaling can serve as a brainstorming tool, helping you generate new ideas and solve problems.

• Improve Memory: Writing about your experiences can help you consolidate memories and improve recall.

• Promote Healing: Journaling can be a therapeutic tool for processing trauma and grief.

Getting Started: Tips and Techniques

The beauty of journaling is its flexibility. There's no right or wrong way to do it. However, here are a few tips to get you started:

• Find a Quiet Space: Choose a place where you can relax and focus without distractions.

• Choose Your Writing Tool: Whether it's a traditional pen and paper or a digital document, choose a medium you feel comfortable with.

• Set a Regular Time: Even if it's just for 10-15 minutes a day, consistency is key.

• Start with Prompts: If you're feeling stuck, try using journaling prompts to get your thoughts flowing. Examples include: "What are you grateful for today?", "What are your biggest fears?", or "What are your goals for the future?"

• Don't Edit Yourself: Just write whatever comes to mind without worrying about grammar or spelling.

• Be Honest: The more honest you are with yourself, the more you'll get out of the experience.

More Than Just Words: The Power Within

Journaling is more than just writing words on a page. It's a powerful tool for self-discovery, personal growth, and overall well-being. It's a way to connect with your inner voice, explore your thoughts and feelings, and create a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. So, grab a pen, open a notebook, and start your journaling journey today. You might be surprised at what you discover.

5 Simple Ways to Use Printable Planners to Stay Organised Every Day

Staying organised in a busy world can feel like a full-time job. Whether you're juggling work, studies, or creative projects, it's esy to feel overwhelmed. That's where printable planners come in - simple tools you can download, print, and customise to fit your life.

At Gafra, I creaed printable planners designed to bring calm to your chaos, whether you're a student, small business owner, or just trying to stay on top of your week.

Here are 5 simple and practical ways to use printable planners to stay organised every day:

1. START YOUR DAY WITH A DAILY PLANNER PAGE

Kick off your morning with clarity by filling out a daily planner. Most printable planner pages include:

• To-do list
• Time Blocks
• Notes
• Top priorities

This helps you stay focused on what matters most - and keeps distractions in check.

2. USE A WEEKLY SPREAD TO SEE THE BIG PICTURE

A weekly layout gives you an overview of appointments, events, and deadlines. It's perfect for:

• Planning meals
• Tracking habits
• Balancing work and personal life

Planning ahead helps reduce decision decision fatigue-and makes room for flexibility.

3. SET MONTHLY GOALS (and Actually Track Them)

Big dreams need clear goals. Use a monthly planner to:

• Set 3-5 goals
• Break them into action steps
• Track your progress

Whether it's launching a new side hustle or starting a self-care habit, a monthly spread keeps your vision visible.

4. CREATE A CUSTOMISED SYSTEM

Printable planners are flexible-you're not locked into one format. Mix and match:

• Daily, weekly and monthly pages
• Budget trackers
• Self-care check-ins
• Meal planners

Organise your pages in a binder or discbound journal. Personalize it with stickers, washi tape or doodles!

**5. REPRINT AND RESET ANYTIME YOU NEED **

That's the beauty of printables-no waste, no guilt. Ran out of pages? Print more. Didn't like a layout? Try another.

It's affordable, accessible, and adjustable for every season of life.

READY TO GET ORGANISED?

I've created a free printable weekly planner you can downlaod and use right now. It's simple, clean, and designed to help you stay focused.

**CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE daily PLANNER ** Want even more? Check out the full printable planner collection here - full of templates that fit your unique lifestyle.

Let's get organised - your way.

Exploring the Power of Journaling

Hi Guys,

It’s been a while…yes I know. I’ve been very delinquent but it’s been busy here in my life and my Leadership Development Business. For those of you new to my blogs, I am a Leadership Development Coach, Self taught Artist, Junk Journal Maker, blogger and mother of 4. After Covid due to changes at home and having lost my studio space I turned to making junk journals and loved it. I must say though that journaling was something I did sporadically. I have a Spiritual Journal where I take a reading then document what that reading is saying to me. I also have an Art journal for doodling and then my normal work journal for my Art/Junk journal side hustle and website notes.

In this blog I want to share some info on journaling. I’ll put part here and part in my next blog. Hope it inspires you to start journaling.

Unleash Your Inner Voice: Exploring the Power of Journaling

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to get swept away in the currents of responsibility, deadlines, and external pressures. But what about you? When do you take the time to connect with your thoughts, feelings, and dreams? This is where journaling steps in, offering a powerful and accessible pathway to self-discovery and well-being.

But what exactly is journaling?

Beyond a Diary: Defining Journaling

While often mistaken for a simple log of daily events, journaling is far more than just recounting what you ate for breakfast and who you met with. It's a personal and reflective practice that involves writing down your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and observations in a consistent manner. Think of it as a conversation with yourself, a safe space where you can explore your inner landscape without judgment or censorship.

More Than Just "Dear Diary": Exploring the Nuances

Journaling isn't about perfect grammar or eloquent prose. It's about authenticity and honesty. You don't need to be a writer to reap the benefits. It can be rambling and messy, organized and structured, or anything in between. The key is to find a style that works for you.

Here are some key aspects that distinguish journaling from simply keeping a diary:

• Focus on Reflection: Journaling encourages you to delve deeper than surface-level descriptions. It prompts you to analyze your experiences, identify patterns, and learn from your mistakes.

• Emphasis on Personal Growth: The act of writing and reflecting can lead to increased self-awareness, improved emotional regulation, and a greater sense of purpose.

• Freedom of Expression: There are no rules in journaling. You're free to explore any topic, vent your frustrations, celebrate your successes, and express your innermost thoughts without fear of criticism.

• A Tool for Self-Discovery: By consistently engaging in journaling, you can uncover hidden beliefs, identify your values, and clarify your goals.

Sharing My Coaching Thoughts Via Podcasts

https://api.spreaker.com/v2/episodes/63127951/download.mp3

CATCHING UP - 2022 TO 2024

Hello everyone, it's been a long sabaticle and absence. Lots has happened since my last post in 2022. Firstly, I am still a Leadership Development Coach but now its done digitally and I work from home. My four kids who lived with me are grown adults and one now lives in the Phillipines and one in Illinois. I only have two left here with me and one lives in the house with me and my huzzy.

Life is great and although I haven't painted in quite a while I've discovered a new creative outlet...Junk Journals. It started while I was going through Pinterest. I saw a journal and that sparked my curiousity. So as per usual I jumped to Youtube to find out more. In attempting to make one at my desk while waiting for my next coaching session...that set off the zest for what has become my new creative product...Junk Journals. Within a short space, one journal turned to two then three ...now I have at least thirty three. So with so many I decided to start giving away and then eventually I started selling them and people loved them, especillay young adult females...so there began a new business.

I will continue my tale later as I have a client coming on soon. Love you guys and see you later.

Oh goodness!!!

Yes hi guys…oh goodness, i’ve been soooooooo delinquent with painting that since covid hit I haven't been painting and instead I made up all types of excuses why I didn't have time to start. To make things worse, I had to make my studio into an office for my husband as we are now working from hone, but despite this, I feel artistic still because I create Junk Journals and I must say I really enjoy it. It’s very therapeutic and relaxing.

I have to resurface and paint again. I’ve gotten some encouragement as a company emailed me about some pieces so i’m waiting to see if they purchase any. I did some sketches and I have at least 4 pieces I can start but i’m just not mentally in the mood as I dont have that private space to be free to paint and I feel like my studio is no longer mine to move in as I want. This shows how important an artist's space is to them. Its their piece of freedom. I miss mine and i’m not sure when i’ll get another one. Some would say…”create another space"… but the feeling to do that isn’t there. But knowing myself, i’ll do it when i’m ready or when I have no choice because I have to create for an exhibition and that's another way to push yourself….sign up for an exhibition, get a commission, commit to something that forces you to create.

Well it’s been a while, it’s nice to be back, I apologize to my followers for the long delay and i will check you guys soon. I’ll try to write more often at least once or twice a week. Bye for now. Stay safe.

A New and Interesting Era

Hi guys, it has been almost two years since I’ve written a blog. I’m not even sure how I managed to start writing today? It has been a very eventful 2 years and many things have changed in this life. Many of you would have gone through similar situations as me and many changes and maybe even sad events. I have totally changed how I live I gave up my office and now I work strictly from home with my Leadership Coaching Business. I must admit I haven’t painted in the last year and a half but I still stayed creative by making Junk Journals.

I haven’t been as diligent as I should be with my Art website and I’m sorry about that but my Coaching pays the bills and being an Artist in Trinidad is very competitive. You have to do soooo many things to be noticed or to even sell your art. I’ve done some exhibitions and sold some pieces there. What I sold I could never make a living off of but I know this and it’s also because I don’t spend enough time designated to building my Art Business. Unfortunately Art takes a second seat as I don’t earn enough from it to live.

For all who want to make Art their livelihood, you have to expend all of your energy in that direction. But as we’ve been bombarded by Covid and all the changes that that has caused we have no choice but to make our income where we can and I make most of mine doing Online Coaching. Art has always been my release, but the crafting helps to some extent but I do miss painting but as my studio is now my Husbands office the inspiration or drive to paint is very low, so I have to come up with another way to push myself to paint. Doing an Exhibition is one way to push me to create new pieces but nowt always.

Time is passing so I have to get back that inspiration and drive. I will and it will be soon. That’s all for now guys and as I’m back I will try to post again, but I can’t promise that it will been set days of the week. But I am back.