This weekend you should try something new. I know it’s Fashion Week in NYC and Grammy weekend in LA, but if you’re in the mood to stay home these activities may help you discover more about yourself, step outside your comfort zone and most importantly, relax.

1. Start your memoir
The story of how you became the person you are today is one of the most important stories you may ever tell. Find your voice and live in your truth by writing your autobiography. This may be a year-long process but why not start now?

2. Make an inspiration board
Whether you are planing your career, wedding or trying to loose weight, an inspiration board is a great visual for your process. Clip out inspirational pictures from your favorite magazines and paste them on a poster board — it’s that simple.

3. Try baking something new
Pull out a cookbook and bake a two-tier cake or loaf of bread from scratch. No need for a special occasion!

4. Write out your bucket list and pick one to do
Think of all the thing you want to experience in your life, and close one to do that day.

5. Take a new fitness class
Just to change things up, try going to a ballroom or pole dancing class. Stepping outside your comfort zone means you may be able to meet new people and have fun while doing it.

What activities do you enjoy when you need some “you” time?

The post 5 Things To Do for Yourself This Weekend appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Here are five things to try this week to make it just a little bit more fun.

Affirm yourself: Have you been in a funk lately? A change of attitude is probably in order. Instead of breaking yourself down and nit picking every single fault, consider filling those negative spaces with positive affirmations. They may seem silly at first, but soon you’ll notice that you’ll spend less time picking yourself apart and more time amazed at just what you can do.

Be a foodie: Whether you hit up that hot new restaurant in your neighborhood or experiment with a new recipe, this week have fun with your food. Try new things and sample foods you’ve never eaten before.

Shake it up: Don’t spend $4 a pop at Jamba Juice or Starbucks! Get creative and make your own smoothies, shakes, and ice coffee. Hit the ‘net for some tasty recipes that will help you beat the heat and save a little money, too.

Be romantic: Add a touch of romance to your week. Read some love poems, indulge in a great box of Swiss chocolate, or do something special for your boo. If your relationship has fallen a little flat lately, spice it up with some out-of-the-box romantic tricks. And if you’re single, treat yourself to something special—a piece of lingerie, a massage, or a hot bubble bath.

Go dancing: The summer is almost done, so hook up with your girls and shake what your mama gave you!

That’s it for now, Clutchettes. What’s on your to-do list for the week?

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things To Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Only a few more weeks stand between us and the end of summer. September 21 marks the last day of the hot season, and already, summery things are starting to wind down. Bummer. It’s already starting to get dark a little earlier. The nights are cooling off at an alarming rate. And every store you enter seems inundated with Back to School messaging. But for those die-hard summer-lovers who hate to see a good thing end, here a few ways to get the most of out of what’s left of the summer solstice.

1. Sunbathe

That’s right. I said sunbathe. Just slather yourself in SPF 30 every two hours and get stretch out under the sun. The next few weeks are your last opportunity to get a good tan before autumn (without a winter trip to the Caribbean, that is). If sunbathing isn’t something you’d normally consider, that’s all the more reason to try it. Head to a local beach or park with a lawn chair, wear your bikini or a tank and shorts and relax with sunglasses and the very last “beach read” you’ll get to finish before the season for fluffy summer romance and mystery novels ends.

2. Mini-Vacay

Okay, so it’s probably too late to plan that trip to Ibiza you couldn’t swing earlier in the summer. But that doesn’t mean it’s too late to get a vacation in before the end of the season. Visit a friend in a nearby city. Road trip to a beach an hour or two away. Take in a couple museums the next state over. Hit up the end of a summer concert series and stay in the area for a few days.

3. Cookout or Camp Out

For some, this is inevitable. A Labor Day cookout is a tradition for a lot of folks. But in case you weren’t already hosting one and have yet to be invited to one, why not throw your own? Hit up a dollar-store for those kitschy luau-themed decorations, whip up some frozen cocktails with paper umbrellas, and bust out the Maze featuring Frankie Beverly tracks. It’s time for hot links and burgers (and/or their vegetarian equivalents).

If a cookout’s not your deal, but you wouldn’t mind camping, it isn’t too late to hit up a campsite. Get your hubby/lover/friend and a tent and you’re good to go.

4. Cartwheel Through a Meadow

Take it literally or figuratively. But get outside and do something childlike and whimsical. Hearken back to those days when you were pressed to squeeze every final bit of enjoyment out of summer before the dreaded start of a new school year shackled you to a desk for nine more months. Double-dutch. Hopscotch. Grab your niece, nephew, cousin, or kid and blow some bubbles. Roller-blade through a park. Kid-again euphoria: get into it.

What are your plans to mark the end of summer? Are you sad to see it go?

The post It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye: Four Things to Do Before Summer Ends appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

It’s Monday, and we made it through another weekend. The summer is thisclose to being over and while I’m sad the long days and warm nights will soon be replaced by darkened evenings and cooler weather, we still have a few weeks left to enjoy. While we continue to hold onto the waning weeks of summer, I’m back with a few more things to add to your routine that will give it a little pop.

So here are 5 things to add to your fun to-do list this week!

Meet new people: Summer is a wonderful to add a few new faces to your social circle. Don’t know where to go? Go to happy hour, an outdoor concert or play, or hit up your local beach. The people are out, meet them!

Reread an old book: I rarely reread books, but I’m currently enjoying one I read a decade ago. The interesting thing? I have a new perspective on the text.

Fast for a day: Sometimes our bodies need a rest of all the noshing. While the heat continues to burn up most of the country, why not give your jaws a rest. Fast for day and fill up on water and tea.

Spruce up your water: Since it’s so hot, water is the perfect drink for summer. Spruce it up by adding lemons, limes, mint, or any other fruit you enjoy.

Indulge in the art of doing nothing: Take a break from all of your commitments and just veg out. Read, watch old movies, talk on the phone, or just lay in your bed contemplating your life. Give yourself permission to do nothing…and LOVE it!

That’s it for this week. What’s on your to-do list?

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things To Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Can you believe we’re just two weeks away from Labor Day and the unofficial end to summer? Because the summer has flown by, it’s important you squeeze every bit of life you can from these last few weeks. So, here are a few suggestions for making this week one of the best yet.

So without further ado, here are 5 things to-do this week.

Go to an outdoor concert: No matter where you live, summertime usually means there will be an abundance of outdoor activities. From concerts and free plays, to outdoor movies and food truck festivals, get out there and enjoy the last few weeks of summer.

Grab drinks at a rooftop bar: I don’t know about you, but nothing says I’m fly and it’s summer like a rooftop bar. Even if you’re only drinking mocktails, grab your girls, hit up your favorite rooftop bar, and have a great time.

Go kayaking: For the past few years I’ve been saying I’m going to go kayaking. With a few weeks left of summer, I’m totally going to do it. Head to the beach, river, or lake near you, rent a kayak and paddle your heart out.

Set your end-of-the-year goals: When September hits, we’ll have just four months until 2013. While you may be wondering what the heck happened to your 2012 resolutions, it’s still not to late to make some serious moves before 2013. Assess what you want to do and how to set things in motion so by the time the year hits, you’ll already be on a roll.

Host a brunch: Tired of going to the same spot for brunch? Shake it up. Invite your friends over and have them each bring a dish. Swap stories and enjoy each other’s company for a fraction of the normal price. Enjoy!

That’s it for this week, Clutchettes. What’s on your to-do list for the week?

*Photo via National Geographic

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Shall we get started?

Learn something new: This weekend I learned to ride a motorcycle. It was amazing and got me thinking of all of the other things I’d like to learn, but have been putting off. This week, try to learn more about something that’s always interested you.

Go off the grid: These days are so digitally connected it can become stressful. Try taking a few hours every day, or an entire day, to disconnect from your phone, laptop, text messages, Facebook–the whole nine. Go outside, read a book, spend time with those you love without your phone in tow.

Be nice: Being snarky is easy, I do it well. But this week, when dealing with others, try to stick to the principle, “If you don’t have something nice to say, keep your mouth shut.”

Buy yourself some flowers: Flowers can instantly brighten your mood, and with so many varieties available in the summer, you can pick up a cute and affordable bouquet very easily.

Watch a movie outdoors: Grab your picnic basket, your favorite snacks, and a friend and head to an outdoor movie screening. The summer is usually teaming with them, so finding an outdoor film in your area should be pretty easy.

That’s it for this week, Clutchettes. What’s on your list? 

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

While you don’t have try everything, this list is something you can use to add a little variety to your week and keep things fresh. And don’t worry if you’ve already checked everything off your list; peep our previous lists here to get a few more fun ideas.

So, without further ado, here are five things to try this week!

Plant something – Whether you have a backyard or only a small space on your windowsill, planting fresh herbs not only makes you feel better, but also can add a much-needed kick to meals.

Act like a tourist – Longing for a vacation but can’t afford it? Act like a tourist in your own town. Every city is known for something; hit your town’s tourist attractions and see your city through a visitor’s eyes.

Play games – Remember how much fun board games were when you were a kid? An easy (and cheap) way to hang out with your friends is to have a game night. Invite your pals over and have them each bring a game. Before you know it you’ll be laughing and playing like old pros.

Raise your glass – Thought about becoming a wine connoisseur but didn’t know where you start? Sign up for a tasting at your local wine store.  If wine isn’t your thing, check out a local brewery and taste a few beers. Even if you don’t like all of them, you’ll leave with a smile on your face.

Write it down – A journal is a good way to document your life, but take it one step further and keep a gratitude journal. Be sure to write down all of the things  for which you’re thankful. When you look back on it, you’ll realized that you’re extremely blessed.

That’s it for now, Clutchettes. What’s on your To-Do List for the week?

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

While some of us are dreading yet another workweek, others are embracing the day and all it brings. Let’s look on the bright side, shall we? We’re alive, we’re healthy, and we have yet another day (and hopefully week) to enjoy our lives. As we’ve seen with the tragic events in Colorado, some did not make it to another day. So, while we’re here we might as well make the most of it, right?

So check out these five things you might want to add to your week to give it a little spice.

Create a mission statement: Whether you’re attempting to build a side hustle or not, a mission statement can help you focus your life on what you really want. Make it short. What would you like to do with your life? What do you want your legacy to be? Think about it, and write it down.

Remix your space: Nothing helps freshen your mood like redecorating your space. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can quickly change the entire look of your home by moving some furniture, adding a few accent colors, or picking up a statement piece of art. Check out ApartmentTherapy.com for ideas and get creative!

Register to vote: If you aren’t registered to vote yet, what are you waiting for? With so much at stake in this upcoming election — both on the local and federal level — you must make your voice heard. Need help registering? Go to RocktheVote.com

Tidy up every day: Make your bed, clean your room, wash the dishes. Instead of letting your household chores pile up, take care of them every day. Although it’s annoying, it’ll save you tons of time later, and you’ll feel more relaxed because your space is free of clutter.

Become your own DJ: Music has the ability to liven any mood. This week create your own playlist. Make one for working out, one for getting your morning started off right, or one for those times when you need a little inspirational pick-me-up. Use this opportunity to explore some new music from around the globe.

That’s it for this week, Clutchettes. What’s on your to-do list for the week?

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Shall we get started? Here are 5 things to try this week!

Say Thank You: There’s nothing better than starting your day on the right foot. One way is to begin each day by saying thank you for all of the things that are going right in your life. Soon, you’ll find the good things will keep expanding.

Use Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural wonder. It works on everything from cleaning your hair to cleaning your kitchen sink. This week, if you’re looking for a quick way to whiten your teeth or a gentle facial scrub, add a little baking soda. You’ll be amazed at what it can do!

Get Political: Haven’t been keeping up with the political debates so far? It’s time to start paying attention. With just a few months left until the November elections, you should get acquainted with both federal and local issues. Aside from digging into the details of Romney vs. Obama, make sure you take some time to find out what’s going on in your own city and state.

Write It Down: Yes, everybody and their mama has a blog, but that shouldn’t stop you. Whether you keep a physical paper journal or type your thoughts online for all the world to see, be sure to document your life. When you look back, you’ll be amazed at how far you’ve grown (or not) and hopefully you’ll be reminded of some really great times in your life.

Talk to Strangers: I recently signed up for a Facebook challenge to make 30 Videos in 30 Days. Insanity! But this challenge has forced me to think out of the box. Over the weekend, I decided to whip out my camera and interview a couple of street musicians. What I learned was that you can be inspired by just about anyone.

That’s it for now, Clutchettes. What’s on your to-do list this week? 

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

It’s Monday and we’re ready to take on yet another week. Although many of you are out enjoying the summer, most of us are probably stuck at work and praying for an escape. Whether you’re on vacation or not, here are a few things you can add to your to-do list to make this week just a little bit more special.

Eat clean: Summer is a wonderful time to overhaul your diet. With so many summer fruits and veggies bursting with flavor, ditching processed foods and incorporating more whole foods into your diet is a breeze. Need a little inspiration? Check out the blog A Black Girl’s Guide to Weight Loss.

Wear sunscreen: We’re black women, but that doesn’t mean we’re immune to sunburn and skin cancer. Before you hit the street, make sure you slather on sunscreen to keep your skin looking young while protecting you from the sun’s dangerous rays.

De-clutter your space: Didn’t get hit with the spring-cleaning bug? Don’t wait till next year to de-clutter your space. Getting rid of extra stuff not only keeps our homes clean, but it also helps us to think clearer and relax. Here’s a tip: Help others by donating your old clothes and electronics to charities like the Salvation Army.

Make a mid-year plan: We’ve hit the mid-year point, and while some of our New Year’s resolutions have long since fallen by the wayside, we’ve kept up with others. Just like all businesses, do a mid-year review, and give your life the once over. What have you accomplished so far this year? How can you make the second half of the year even more awesome? What else do you want to add to your list? Think about it and write it down — on paper.

Meditate: Between the summer cookouts, rooftop shindigs, and cocktail parties on the riverbank, things can get pretty hectic. To avoid summer burnout, don’t forget to take a few moments each day to center yourself and quiet your thoughts. If you’ve never mediated before, it may be hard to quiet your mind at first, but keep practicing. Soon you’ll be a pro.

That’s it for this week. What’s on your to-do list, Clutchettes? 

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Well, Clutchettes, we’ve made it to another week and while this one includes a holiday (yay Independence Day!), there’s still a few things we can squeeze in to make it just a little more interesting.

For the past few weeks, I’ve popped in every Monday to suggest a weekly to-do list of five things to try each week, and this one is no different. While you don’t have to do them all (or any, really), this list is just a handy reminder for us to try something different and add a little variety to our busy lives.

Shall we?

Go meatless: Pick one day this week to ditch meat in your meals. Not only is it healthier to cut down on your meat consumption, but you’ll also be doing something good for Mother Nature as well. 

Get your money straight: For many businesses July marks the start of a new fiscal year. Now’s a good time to take a look at your finances and figure out where you need to make a few changes. Need budgeting tips and tricks? Try using Mint to track your finances and check out Daily Worth for inspiration.

Try a new ’do: I admit I get stuck in the same rotation of hairstyles, but summer is the perfect time to try something new. Need some inspiration? Hop on YouTube and watch hair videos until you’re ready to start experimenting.

Hang with the animals: This week go to a zoo, an aquarium, or your local beach to find out more about animal life and nature. Bonus points if you act like a kid and enjoy your day while you’re out there. Can’t been too serious, upset or stressed out around animals!

Phone a friend: We’ve gotten so caught up in our technology, our texting, tweeting, and Facebooking that many of us have never used our phones as, you know, phones. This week call a friend or family member and talk to them. You’ll be amazed at how connected hearing their voice will make you feel.

That’s it for now, Clutchettes. What’s on your to-do list this week?

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

While many of you are suffering through sweltering heat, for the rest of us summer is a little more forgiving. No matter what corner of the world you’re in at the moment, I’m back with a few things to try this week to add a little spice to your routine.

Shall we get started?

Have a picnic: Let’s face it; it’s too nice out to spend all day indoors. This week grab a blanket, your favorite salad or sandwich fixings, a bottle of something cool, and head outside for lunch. Don’t worry; if you get rained out just spread a blanket in your living room, grab your food and your boo (or bestie), and have an indoor picnic.

Lift weights: Many of us know the benefits of cardio and find time to squeeze in some sort of workout into our routine, but some of us fail to add weights to the mix. Contrary to popular belief, lifting weights will not cause women to bulk up, but it will help us tone our trouble zones that much quicker.

Go to a museum: Melting under the summer heat wave? Head to a museum! Aside from the free A/C, museums offer cheap and easy ways to indulge in another culture. Even better? Many museums offer free days during the week, so check your local paper or museum website for deets.

Ride a bike: Last week I rode a bike for the first time in years and it was great! The old adage about not forgetting how to ride is correct, so if it’s been a little while for you, this week is the perfect time to jump back on a bike. Live near a beach? Many boardwalks and piers offer bike rentals by the hour, so hop on and enjoy the ride.

Find a signature scent: Summer is the perfect time to switch scents. It’s hot outside, we sweat, and the last thing we need is a heavy fragrance sitting on top of our skin. Experiment with perfumes, oils, and body sprays to find the perfect scent to carry you though the season.

That’s it for now, Clutchettes. What’s on your to-do list for the week?

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things To Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

Shall we?

Get Wet: Whether you hit the beach, the lake, or your local pool, taking a dip in some water is one of the most refreshing things you can do. And do worry about your hair. Buy two swimming caps and slather on a little conditioner before you hop in the water.

Eat Breakfast: Some of you may already be up on game, but I’ve come across so many people who say they don’t eat breakfast it ain’t even funny. The phrase, “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” is more than a cliché, it’s the truth. Feeding our bodies shortly after we wake up kicks up our metabolism, feeds our brains, and keeps us from binging on junk food throughout the day. Don’t like “typical” breakfast foods? Make a sandwich, drink a smoothie, or eat “lunch” for breakfast. Just eat something (healthy)!

Pamper Yourself: Listen, I’m not a girly girl, but I love a good pamper session. Whether you give yourself a deep conditioning treatment or allow the lovely lady at the local salon to go HAM on your hands and feet, taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do.  So this week, make that appointment, run some bath water, get your boo to give you a massage, or pull our your beauty tools and get to work.

Watch a foreign film: One of the easiest ways to indulge in a different culture is to watch a foreign film. If you’re studying another language, films from other countries gives you a chance to practice, and if you just love travel but can’t afford it, films can easily transport you around the world. Want to add a few to your list? Check out our list (and read the comments!).

Plan a road trip: Summer is here and you know what that means? Vacations! Even if your money is funny, taking a trip is not out of the question. Road trips are fun, economical, and can be full of memories, so start planning one today. Not sold on being stuck in a car for hours on end? Consider planning a day trip to a local amusement park, lake, or monument.

That’s it for now…what’s on your list for the week? 

The post The To-Do List: 5 Things To Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.

If you’re worried you have to go all five, you don’t. These are just a few ideas that will help to entertain, inspire, invigorate, or just plain make you smile.

So…what should you try this week?

Get off: Let’s face it ladies, orgasms feel great. What better way to give your week a quick jolt than having the big O? Whether your boo’ed up or happily single, an orgasm can definitely be had.  And while one is GREAT, two (or more) is even better. Not in a relationship? Don’t be afraid to DIY!

Create something: Are you crafty? Have you been putting off that vision board? Do you want to redecorate your space? Make something! Whether you whip out your glue gun and make a new headboard or get lost in a stack of magazines and make a collage, flex those creative muscles. Even if you don’t make something that’s frame-worthy you’ll be proud of what you just created.

Meditate: Do you find it hard to relax? Is your mind constantly racing? Do you have a hard time staying focused? You might want to start meditating and getting your inner-woman in check. Meditation not only helps you feel more peaceful, centered, and grounded, but according to a new study it might also be good for your heart. Win-win!

Do something crazy: Sky dive, take surfing lessons, go rock climbing, ride a horse, ask the cutie you’ve been scoping on for the past week out to lunch. Do something out of character and enjoy the rush you get from breaking out of your box.

Go out alone: Eating a meal by yourself might seem like a scary proposition for some, but we are women of the world, Clutchettes! We are confident, cool, and damn good company, so this week why not try to go to a restaurant or café you love and enjoy a meal for one. Leave the iPhones, books, or other distractions at home. This meal is just about you!

What’s on you to-do list for the week, Clutchettes? 

The post The To-do List: 5 Things To Try This Week appeared first on Clutch Magazine.