Are you on a quest to live better in 2017? Because I am. I make no secret of the fact that I can’t get on board with new year’s resolutions, but that’s not to say I don’t see January as a good time to stop and reassess. Recently, I’ve been attempting to carve out some time for myself again, and make 2017 the year I live better in every aspect of my life – family, work, health and friendships. Or, to put it another way, make 2017 the year I don’t constantly feel like I’m running an uphill marathon while hauling a boulder the size of a small island.
At the risk of sounding terribly self-indulgent and a tad wanky, I’ve been using the past ten days or so to reflect a bit and take stock. I’ve been eating more healthily, drinking more herbal tea and less wine and, generally, trying to be calmer and less hurried in how I go about things (this includes everything from the school run to my work schedule). It’s a work in progress and something I’m sure I’ll write about in more detail eventually (including a post on how to be a Slashie working mum without losing your mind), but for now I wanted to share ten blogs that all offer something in the way of inspiration to live better.
WORK
More Than Toast, written by Alice, is a brilliant blog packed with all sorts of content, from recipes and beauty ideas to anecdotes about dating, and posts about life as a single parent. But what Alice has to offer in the form of work advice (namely working from home) is really valuable if you’re looking to make a change or start on a new work path in 2017.
Live better post: 5 ways to make working from home work for you
Not Another Mummy Blog, written by Alison, is often filled with nuggets of wisdom on ways to avoid imposter syndrome and boost your feelings of confidence when it comes to the world of work. This is no cheesy self-help blog though. Instead, Alison’s way of writing is relatable and always from a place of experience, making her opinions all the more valid.
Live better post: 10 things I’ve learned in 2016
TRAVEL
Tigerlilly Quinn, written by Fritha, is a Bristol-based blog packed full of retro, quirky style and celebrations of ordinary joyful moments. Fashion lovers will appreciate Fritha’s blog just as much as those with a spot of wanderlust. If you’re looking for alternative travel ideas and cool places to take the kids in 2017 then this one should definitely be on your list if it isn’t already.
Live better post: Christmas in Amsterdam, what we did and where we stayed
Mummy Daddy Me, written by Katie, is a blog about life as a mum to three children. First and foremost, Katie’s blog is about the ordinary moments of parenthood, with a big emphasis on positivity and appreciating the little things. But aside from that, Katie also consistently shares her travel experiences, showing that it IS possible to explore the world with three little people (one who isn’t even a year old yet) in tow.
Live better post: 10 cool things to do in Orlando (that aren’t the main theme parks)
HOME
Growing Spaces, written by Heather, has been on my reading list since it was first launched back in 2011. It’s full of DIY inspiration, craft project ideas, stunningly stylish interiors to swoon over and down-to-earth creative tips for busy people wanting to beautify their home.
Live better post: Quick and easy DIY projects for January
Oyster and Pearl, written by Lottie, is a source of inspiration if you’re searching for ways to make a rented house a home and ideas to bring your own personality out in a space. Lottie’s eye for styling and colour is brilliantly creative, and even if you have no home projects on the horizon it’s worth a visit just to look at the pretty pictures.
Live better post: Kitchen makeover with B&Q
WELLBEING
Mel Wiggins, written by Mel, has fast become one of my favourite blog reads. With a real emphasis on simple, thoughtful living, Mel writes about ways to achieve a gentle life balance, connections with the environment and the people around you, as well as offering thoughts on ethical fashion and interiors. Mel also offers lots of extras which are worth signing up for, including a newsletter, e-guides and other resources to inspire a slower-paced, more intentional lifestyle.
Live better post: Creativity & caring about the world – can we do both?
HelloitsGemma, written by Gemma, is the blog equivalent of a hot cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit. The ultimate in comfort, Gemma writes with low-key beauty about the small moments of joy, taking stock of everyday life and – most pertinently – being kind to yourself. If you’ve had a stressful day and are looking for a soothing balm to the shouty world of online noise, then this is the blog to head to.
Live better post: Tackling January
PARENTING
Brummy Mummy of 2, written by Emma, is a no holds barred blog about the good, the bad and the ugly side of raising children. Often hilarious and always relatable, Emma’s blog isn’t a parenting guidebook as such, but it will make you feel better next time you wonder if you’re the only one who’s been in an X, Y, or Z parenting situation (the answer: you are most definitely not alone).
Live better post: Eating out with children: the dream vs the reality
Mummy Limited, written by Emily, is another blog that I often find myself nodding along to. With a beautiful balance between positivity and keeping it real, Emily manages to capture the overall essence of something I’m often feeling myself when it comes to mum life. My big mantra for 2017 when it comes to parenting is to celebrate my small wins and give myself a break, rather than try to be some sort of motherhood wizard, which is a vibe I often get from Emily’s writing too.
Live better post: Mum burnout
(I feel like I need to end this post with a disclaimer that there are LOADS of brilliant blogs out there which will bring plenty of inspiration for 2017, not least Write Like No One’s Watching, A Baby On Board and Life with Munchers – and I could quite easily have made this a list of 50 blogs and not 10! Also, if you’re looking to get into blogging yourself in 2017 and want some advice on how to turn it from a hobby into a career then it’s worth having a read of the book Blogging Your Way to Riches by my pal Emma at Emma and 3.)
Ahh what a fab post Molly! Not least because you mention my blog 😉 No but seriously, I think that there are people doing brilliant things in the blogging world and this just reminds me of that! xx
There really are aren’t there? Strange to think that I had no idea the whole world of blogs really existed until about 7 years ago!
I love this Molly – a collection of really brilliant people. I feel very honoured to be included, thank you!
You’re more than welcome Alice. Love your blog – and loved that working from home tips post. x
Really touched to be included, I’m trying to have a more positive living focus. All fantastic blogs, love Mel’s, Emily and Heather are all real faves of mine.
Thanks – it’s really nice to have some ideas for new blogs to read
Hi, I just wanted to thank you for this post. I’ve really enjoyed checking out some new blogs (instead of doing the house work!). 🙂
You’re welcome Hollie – hope you enjoyed them! x