The book itself reminds me of the book The Little Prince, as it relays messages of following your dream and personal realizations in the form of a magical story. Both these books are ones that can be loved by a child but also by an adult, as each generation will perceive and understand it differently.

My takeaways?

This book speaks heavily on the topic of ‘Personal Legends’ which can loosely be translated to your personal “meaning of life”. It says that everyone has a personal legend—a reason that they live and breathe. When we are younger, the universe tells us about what we’re here on the earth to do, and what we’re going to achieve. But as we get older, different aspects of life start to mould our beliefs and thoughts about what we need to become, and it suppresses all that we know as a child as well as blocks off our communication with our heart and with the language of the universe. 

I think this book resonated with me so much because it’s a great reminder to revaluate what it is my goals and dreams and beliefs really are. It made me want to reconnect with myself—and in turn try to tune in again to what the universe is saying. It’s not easy to achieve this when you have a million other things to worry about, stress about, or contemplate in your life. However, I think it makes the task that much more important.

For a period of time, in the beginning of this year, I took on the challenge of trying to meditate every single day. I unfortunately pushed this task further and further down my “to-do” list before I was able to build a habit out if it. Meditating really helped me connect with myself, with the present, and with my spirituality and this book has re-inspired me to continue this practice.

As I’m trying to consciously learn to listen my own needs and allow myself to feel happy about where I am in life, The Alchemist was a great addition to my own journey of self-discovery and improvement.

Heavy Hump Day topic, oops!

Be Sure

The first thing that you should do is be absolutely certain that this is what you want. You don’t want to change jobs just because you are bored or fancy a change, just to find yourself in a position you hate even more. No one wants to spend their life jumping from one unhappy job to another.

If you are absolutely sure that you want to leave your current job, think very carefully about what you want to do before you start job hunting. If you’ve got a dream or something you’ve always kept in mind, go for it. If not, sit down and write a list of everything that you love doing or are good at. Speak to a careers advisor and take your time to reach a decision.

Find Out What You Need

In some cases, you can get an entry-level job without going back to school. But, that may not always be possible. Or, it might not be something that you can afford to do. If you are used to the lifestyle a high paying job brings, you may not want to take such a huge drop in salary.

Take a look at what qualifications or experience you need to get started in a new career. You may need to enroll in an online study program or do some volunteer work to get some relevant experience.

Sort Out Your Finances

Whether you are aiming to enter a new industry higher up, start at the bottom, or open your own business, it’s important to make sure you are in a stable financial position before you leave your current job. Take your time to read how do you fix your credit and make an effort to improve your credit score and pay off any debts. If at all possible, have a few months’ salary saved just in case, on top of any money you need for further education.

Prepare Your CV

One common mistake people make is staying in an unhappy job because they can’t see a way out. They think that they’re not qualified to do anything else. This isn’t often the case. Take a look at your CV, and think about your key skills. Think about all of your experience, both in and out of work, and any transferable skills you may have. Say you’ve worked as a chef, that means you can work under pressure, you are organized, you are creative, you’ve managed other staff, dealt with food hygiene paperwork, and you can think on your feet. These skills need to be on your CV; they could be useful in many other jobs.

Hope this post was helpful for those of you looking for a career change. 

Until next time, 

Yeezy anyone? Rather than spending over a grand on a distressed piece from the Yeezy line, just pick up this grey distressed sweater dress for US $29.99. I would wear this with a black bomber and black thigh-high boots for that certified Kimye look. Or opt for a light-coloured bootie and leather for a more casual fall look. 

I know this is definitely not your typical “fall” clothing item BUT I LOVE IT. This faux-velvet body suit makes all my 90s baby spice outfit dreams come true. I think this would pair amazingly with some mid/high-rise denim, and a slick leather moto. And then tie it all together with a cute black choker? DONE. 

Oh did I mention this bad girl is US $11.99??!??!?!?!?

For some reason my style has been leaning more towards the casual side lately. Maybe its because school is finally getting to me, or maybe it’s because it’s actually started to get COLD here in Vancouver (which means no more skirts and thin, trendy pieces). But lately I’ve been collecting flannels, bombers, hoodies, and fleece lately. 

One style I’ve been rocking is the cropped hoodies. I thought this would be a great addition to my current collection as this black one is a little longer than those mid-drift exposing ones that I’m seeing in stores right now. I know sometimes it’s a hit or miss with buying fleecey clothing online because you can’t tell whether it’s actually going to be thick and warm or not. But if I end up keeping this one in my cart I will definitely let you guys know. This hoodie is US$15.99 so honestly even if it was slightly thinner than expected I wouldn’t even be mad. 

The choker look took the fashion world by storm and I definitely admit to hopping on to the bandwagon. I didn’t really get to explore that style when we were actually in the 90s (I was still a toddler back then) so I’m definitely glad the style has made its way back around. This grey sweater is a great play on that feature without being so blatantly “trendy”. The large cutout at the neckline gives it that “fake choker” look which I think could look really cute. I like how this simple detail adds something so interesting and different to look at. 

You can cop this sweater for US $19.99!

This cut out sweater really caught my eye. This peice is a great representation of exactly the sort of stuff I look for when I buy items from websites like Sheinside. I try to look for items that are really trendy and out-there but still are super affordable in price. Like I’ve said before, I mostly buy from these websites for the style and not for the quality. I purely want to experiment with different looks and may not necessarily think that I’ll still love these pieces next fall. Don’t get me wrong, there are actually loads of basics on Sheinside that I could definitely love for years to come, but that’s not what I tend to look for shopping online. Anyways, this sweater costs US $21.99 (LIKE COME ON WOW) and I think I might have to give it a try. Like the grey sweater above, it gives off that “choker” look but is actually a large cutout by the neckline. The zippers on the sleeve is definitely a hit or miss I think but I like how it gives the sweater an edgier look. And for 20 bucks you can’t really go wrong.  

And that’s my current fall-trends wishlist! Let me know if you guys like these posts and maybe I’ll do some more! My student budget doesn’t always allow me to constantly stay on top of the trends so I think this is a great way to 1) share some affordable options with you guys and 2) share some outfit inspos!

More soon, 

I am so excited to finally be able to share this amazing campaign with everyone… 

Back story :

Recently I was contacted by the beautiful and sweet Taylor Hui to be a part of a campaign with an amazing message. BeaYOUtiful is a not-for-profit organization that she started to support and promote confidence and self-love within young girls. The campaign, “The Roster”, is a gathering of some of Vancouver’s top influencers to stand together in redefining society’s idea of what “beautiful” means. This weekend will be the official launch of their black and white t-shirts! 10% of the proceeds will be going toward the BeaYOUtiful organization. 

I am absolutely in love with the simple and clean cut of these t-shirts.

“Two shirts, one goal. The Roster strives to break the boundaries of what media defines as “beautiful”. We are crossing boarders to exemplify that self-confidence and respect among men and women, is what a beautified world should look like. “

I’ve included some pictures below from the shoot for The Roster’s t-shirts. 

I just want to say I’m super thankful Taylor contacted me to be a part of this movement. I strongly believe in the importance of encouraging young girls and boys to love themselves for who they are rather than to compare themselves to society’s idea of “perfect”. We are all unique and beautiful in our own way. I think a lot of people would be much happier if they could realize and understand that. 

Join us in supporting this cause and shop the limited edition t-shirts at BeTheRoster.com now ! 

OR check out their links here : 

The Roster Instagram

BeaYOUtiful Instagram

Noah’s (Photographer) Instagram

Another adventure in beautiful Gastown. My friend Thomas invited me to join him and his friend, Uno, on a photo-walk. It was  perfect timing because Vernice and I were actually getting some filming down in Gastown that same day. 

One place Uno introduced us to was the rooftop level of a parking lot across from the Woodward’s building. The lot was mainly empty while we were there, so it was perfect for photo / filming ops. I really do appreciate it when people can show me hidden gems in Vancouver, and take me to places I’ve never been. I’ve been trying to get more creative with my photos, as to really capture the gorgeous city that I’m lucky enough to live in. I’m making it a goal to use my blog and Instagram feed to inspire people to get active and explore their cities more, whether it’s Vancouver or somewhere else. I hope to inspire people to find something they love doing, and pursue it !

One big inspiration to me is my friend, Vernice. She made the huge decision this Summer to quit her job and chase her passion and dream. She is a social media influencer (Youtube, Instagram, Twitter etc.) that creates amazing content. Although it was tough in the beginning, she really has pushed through and is seeing rewards to her hard work now. It has brought her many amazing opportunities, and she has only just begun making it into a career. I’m so extremely proud of how well she’s doing and hope to be as bold as her one day ! 

For now, let me just take my baby steps and keep working on my IG feed ! 

Go and check out her feed @vernicet and her youtube channel www.youtube.com/msbeautyinabox

and mine as well !

@speakoftheangel_ 

www.youtube.com/angelzhng

More soon, 

Maybe it’s because I’m finally starting school full-time again in September (and hopefully heading in the right direction), or maybe it’s because I know I’ve basically wasted the past two school years (where has the time gone?!), but sometimes I really do feel inspiration hungry. I am definitely one to need constant little pushes in the right direction, or else my curious (and lazy) nature will wander off and get off track. 

And what better way to get motivated than to dive in some self-help books ! 

What I enjoy about today’s “self-help” books is that they aren’t your typical, run-of-the-mill, “how to get rich in ten easy steps” books that you used to find. Everyone is different, and I feel that authors realize that the exact steps they’ve taken to reach their goals , aren’t going to work for everyone. Books now-a-days have become a little less focused, and a little more inspiring.

Not to mention, share a common theme; Confidence. But that’s another ramble for another day. 

Not to say that I’m lacking in the confidence department or anything (trust me, I love myself plenty), but I definitely understand that everyone (including lil’ ol’ me) needs a little healthy reminder now and again. 

So, here are the four inspo-friendly things I purchased recently, that you could definitely check out as well. 

FIRST being of course a new agenda. I really thought that this might be the year that I stray from the LG (little girl) looking, colourful agendas… but then I saw this one created by the Ban.Do girls and I couldn’t resist. ahhhhh I’ll go for the moleskin one next year. Just let me hold on to my LG days for one more year. 

SECOND, the actual books. Note : I’ve only actually peeped inside of these babies , but they were all recommendations from friends, youtubers, or just other real life people that have read these books, so either way, I know they’re going to be good. 

You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life

A quick motivation read to remind you that you’re enough, and that as long as you believe, you can achieve. 
Leave Your Mark: Land Your Dream Job. Kill It in Your Career. Rock Social Media.

Career oriented ! Written by inspirational Aliza Licht (DKNY’s PR PRODIGY), giving you a run down on how she got where she is, and how you can do the same. 
Rich Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan for Getting Your Financial Life Together…Finally

Finance oriented. For all the careless spenders (like me), who’ve realized they need to reign it in (like me), and get their shit together and save (also like me). 

Hope these help you guys out ! 

MORE SOON, 

Do you ever have those mornings where you wake up (on your own, without the help of your pesky alarm clock) and you just feel… good? I had one of these mornings recently, and what made it outstanding was knowing that I had the rest of the day to myself to study, or do whatever. I didn’t have school, nor work that day. It was just a real good morning.

So I took my time getting out of bed, brushing my teeth and washing my face, and I decided to make myself a big heaping serving of breakfast.

This is something I like to eat for breakfast whenever I can. It’s easy to make, filled with lots of healthy goodness, and is just … kind of delicious. I make slight alterations to it depending on what ingredients I have in the fridge at the moment, but it’s generally the same type of deal.

I start out with making an egg or two. It’s a toss up between sunny side up, over easy, or scrambled for me. This morning I decided to make fluffy scrambled eggs with a little big of green onion tossed in as well. And then I went H.A.M. (hard as a muthafu*ka) on the chopping board and cut up a tomato, an avocado, and some cilantro. Put it all on a plate, and sprinkled some freshly ground black pepper on top, and drizzled it with a little bit of fresh lemon juice. and VOILA.

I can always count on this breakfast to fill me up but also take less than no time to make.

I also continued some reading this morning. I’ve been meaning to finish this book for AGES now but for some reason, never got the chance to. I’m still not finished (I know I know… I’m terrible) but HEY, I’m working on it okay? And it’s not even like as if this book isn’t interesting. It is VERY interesting and a great read for inspiration. But with me trying to really work on my blog, and also balance my studying for school and working part time, it doesn’t give me too much time to sit down and read my book. I will however do a book review for you guys as soon as I finish this book, because DAMN, Sophia’s got an interesting life and some great wisdom to share with us gals.

When was the last time you had a great morning? Let me know in the comments !

More soon,

I don’t think I’ve ever completed a single New Years resolution.

Setting such specific goals for such a long time frame is just way too unrealistic. If there are any NY resolutions that I haven’t yet given up on in March, I’ve probably just forgotten about them.

Not to mention I think the whole celebration of the new year is slightly overrated… but that’s another post all on it’s own.

What I’ve decided to do this year is not to write down some goals for the year. Instead, I’m going to set myself some short-term goals. I usually give myself some weekly goals (they’re more like a to-do list, but who are you to judge) to complete anyways, so I thought I would start doing monthly resolutions to complete. Each month, I’m going to write a new post about some new goals I’m going to set for myself. I will also let you guys know how well (or how terribly) I did at completely the previous month’s goals.

I figured that if I actually posted these goals online for other people to see, it would give me less of a chance to ignore them completely.

1. Jump back into working out ! There was a time where I actually looked forward to working out and hitting the gym, but somewhere down the road, I lost that mindset along with the ability to fit into some of my jeans. So I decided to not only continue my Yoga journey, but I also got Kaylaitsine’s Bikini Body Guide to working out and eating healthy. I’ve followed her on instagram for a while now, and have been inspired again and again by the before and after pictures of some of her clients. So I finally caved and got her workout guide myself to see what the fuss is.
2. Start saving ! One problem I’ve always had (and probably will for a while) is managing my financials. One definite goal I want to try and succeed at this January is to add at least $100 into my savings account. I know that isn’t a lot, but if I could some how manage to add $100 into my savings account every month… then well. I would actually have savings. $100 is my goal this month, so hopefully it will all workout.
3. No more soda and dessert for the rest of the month. I did not start out this month well. With 2 cups of ginger ale every time I went into work, and the occasional lava cake (I may have had 2 since January started….) I had here and there, I definitely needed a change. SO. I’ve decided. No more pop and desserts for the rest of the month. I don’t deserve it. Yet.
4. Drink more (lemon) water. Another problem that I have is that I don’t drink nearly enough water. This month I’m hoping to get a lot more serious about drinking tons more water and having some lemon water everyday. If you want to know more about benefits of drinking lemon water, you can read this great article here. 
5. Less Netflix. More blogging & reading. The amount of time that I’ve spent on that website is absolutely despicable. The fact that I’ve already seen 80% of all of the movies I actually am interested in, on netflix, is just ridiculous and nothing to be proud of. Instead, I’m going to delegate my time into reading more from my Kobo ARC, and concentrating more on blogging.
6. Stay on top of all classes. My study habits are almost as bad as my Netflix issue. (Yes, I admit I have an issue. Bite me.) If I plan to succeed in my full program this coming fall, I am in serious need of re-vamping my study habits.

What are your new years resolutions this year? Or if you don’t like new years resolutions, like me, what are you short-term goals? 

Lots of love,