1 Week down… 1 to go.
The below post is a little more graphic that our usual posts, so if you don’t want to read about fluids, etc. then stop now. ...
1 Year On…
It saddens me to realize that we are coming up to a year from when we first started trying for a baby, and we still...
19w2d
So here we are… You’ve read all the updates up until now – we feel terrible for not announcing as soon as possible, and keeping...
2013… It’s Almost At An End
Well, it’s that time of year again, when we stuff our faces full of indulgent foods and wines, not to mention the endless amount of...
26w6d – Feeling Thankful
Every Christmas I try and think of all the things I’m thankful for, and at New Years I try and think of all the things...
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![[AD] Last week I was invited up to @tkmaxxuk in Oxford Street to find out more about a newly commissioned piece of research to make Christmas shopping this year both productive and stress-free!
I don't know about you, but I loathe shopping in shops. It's often too busy and overwhelming. I don't like it. Turns out, I've been doing it wrong this whole time!
The behavioural scientists behind the research identified some of the most common difficulties shoppers experience this time of the year - ranging from cognitive overload (✋) to financial stress - and, as a result, they've produced a list of key rules to ensure Christmas shopping trips are more enjoyable. They're calling it the "Festive Five". Check them out below, and let me know if you can resonate.
🎁 Get Personal! Seek to find a more personal gift; it’ll be the perfect present.
A Behavioural Science principle called the “Labour Illusion” suggests we value really unique personal gifts more, as we perceive more effort has gone into them.
🛍️ Work out Who’s Who. Create groups or categories for those you need to buy gifts for.
“Chunking” is a behavioural process whereby you give your brain a break by creating categories and groups – so within your gifting recipient list, work out your fashionistas from your budding chefs to your under £10-ers, for maximum efficiency.
🛒 Get a Game Plan (Make a plan and stick to it).
The behavioural science principle of Implementation Intentions says that we are much more likely to follow through on our intentions if we make a simple plan of how we will carry them out. Ticking things off as we go also leverages the Goal Gradient Effect.
🎅 Enhance Your Focus. Music matters so get yourself a shopping playlist.
Classical music has been shown to increase focus and concentration, whilst upbeat music can help with feeling positive and motivated.
🎄Go On… Treat Yourself!! Whether it’s a cup of tea and a biscuit or a glass of fizz. Give yourself a pat on the back.
Physiological research has shown that motivation increases significantly when we reward ourselves.
🌟 If you have any hints and tips for making shopping more enjoyable, let me know! 🌟](https://lesbemums.com/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/317125010_120089687578766_2090699572292748431_nfull.jpg)
![[AD] 🚨Video contains some flashing🚨 This time last night we were just getting back from our very first #GlowWild at @wakehurst_kew. We've always wanted to go over the past few years, but tickets have always sold out, but then it's no surprise really... 🏮
Glow Wild is an award-winning lantern trail that takes you around #Wakehurst at night, with this year celebrating the spectrum of colours in nature; inviting you to explore how we see colour and the role it plays in our daily lives. 🪲🐞🐛
Curated over an 18 month period, and taking over 3 weeks to build, Glow Wild is an incredible sensory experience for all - ranging from sound to smell (there is also a range of quiet sessions throughout Glow Wild 2022, suitable for visitors with hidden disabilities, such as autism, to make for a more comfortable visit whilst still enjoying the sensory elements).
This year also celebrates a 🌟 brand new 🌟 trail whilst Wakehurst Manor is under renovation, therefore if you've been before why not check out some of the new features #GlowWild2022 has to offer. We were left absolutely speechless. It really was quite spectacular. At the end of the trail there's also an opportunity to toast marshmallows over a brazier or grab a loaded Jacket Potato, as well as check out one of the largest Christmas trees you'll probably ever see 🎄.
We had such a wonderful time and cannot recommend it more, it truly is a magical evening. Thank you so much @wakehurst_kew for inviting us.
🏮Tickets are on sale now, and Glow Wild runs until January 2023!](https://lesbemums.com/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/316602606_856481448821847_5077389921038890900_nfull.jpg)
![No, because he was only a baby last week! 😭
Where did that neck come from? He's 7, going on 17. 😭😭
Just to add salt to the wound, swipe for a comparison. 😭😭😭
[Image description in alt-text]](https://lesbemums.com/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/315010363_656210865916629_4889615940225535324_n.webpfull.jpg)
