Posted in Mindful Mondays!

Let’s Support Young Adults . . . Not Oppose Them!

THE SUPPORT OF YOUNG ADULTS

Supporting Anxious Young Adults Facing Their Futures: A Call to Action for Skilled Adults

Growing up in the 1970s, our futures were certainly a concern. However, there was a prevailing belief among skilled and experienced adults, when they weren’t focused on sending us to war, that our lives would surpass those of our parents and grandparents. A key difference between then and now lies in the respect afforded to young adults. Back then, adults voiced concerns like “cut your hair,” “put a bra on,” and “stop smoking those funny cigarettes.” These specific issues no longer seem to be a focus for adults today. One wonders if they should be.

Recent studies show that nearly 70% of young adults experience anxiety when they look ahead to their future, from career paths and financial independence to relationships, health, and identity. This isn’t simply a “phase.” It’s a widespread and pressing emotional burden. As skilled and experienced adults, we are in a powerful position to support, guide, and inspire the next generation—if we choose to show up intentionally and compassionately.

1. Normalize Uncertainty, Don’t Glorify Control

Many young people believe that by their mid-20s, they should have it all figured out. We can help by sharing our own stories—honestly. Talk about the career pivots, unexpected life detours, and personal reinventions that shaped you. Let them see that uncertainty isn’t failure; it’s part of becoming.

“I didn’t land on my career until I was 35.”

“The job I loved at 22 wasn’t the one I loved at 42.”

When we normalize nonlinear journeys, we relieve them from the false pressure to get it perfect right now.


2. Offer Mentorship, Not Management

Many young adults fear judgment when they ask for advice. They’re used to being evaluated on tests, in college applications, and on social media. Instead of prescribing solutions, offer coaching. Be a mentor who asks, “What do you love doing?” or “What kind of life would you like to wake up to?”

Offer frameworks, not fixed answers. Ask questions that foster internal reflection, not external validation.


3. Model Emotional Regulation and Coping Strategies

Anxiety around the future is not always logical—it’s emotional. So, rather than offering only “solutions,” show them how to manage the feeling of anxiety. Share what works for you: mindfulness, journaling, breaking big goals into small actions, or simply knowing when to rest.

When adults model emotional literacy, young people learn that being overwhelmed doesn’t mean they’re broken—it means they’re human.


4. Create Brave (Not Just Safe) Spaces

Safe spaces are important, but brave spaces are transformational. Be someone they can talk to without fear of ridicule. Let them explore their doubts, fears, and dreams—even if those dreams seem wild or uncertain.

Start conversations like:

  • “What’s something you want to do but haven’t said out loud yet?”
  • “If fear weren’t in the way, what would you try?”

5. Provide Tangible Tools, Not Just Talks

Sometimes anxiety is fueled by not knowing how to move forward. Offer real-world tools:

  • Resume-building help
  • Budgeting workshops
  • Skill-building internships or shadowing opportunities
  • Guidance on navigating healthcare, housing, or credit

Equipping them with real skills reduces fear and builds confidence.


6. Challenge the Myth of “Success”

Help dismantle the harmful narrative that success must look a certain way—high-paying job, house by 30, picture-perfect life. Emphasize fulfillment, not just achievement.

Success can be:

  • Doing meaningful work
  • Being mentally and physically well
  • Having healthy relationships
  • Living with integrity

Let’s help young people define success on their terms.


7. Walk With, Not Ahead

At the core of all help is this truth: young adults don’t need saviors. They need companions—adults who will walk with them, not ahead of them, shining a light back with encouragement, wisdom, and hope.

“You’re not behind. You’re on your way.”


In Summary:
As skilled, emotionally aware adults, we can help young adults navigate future-focused anxiety not by fixing their fears, but by faithfully walking with them through it. Listening deeply. Sharing honestly. Encouraging gently. Equipping tangibly.

And above all, reminding them: the future isn’t something to fear—it’s something to co-create.

Peace & Harmony, Coach Cher

For more in-depth support beyond this article, explore my personalized coaching programs. Schedule a free consultation to discuss what’s preventing you from achieving organized living spaces. We’ll pinpoint your obstacles and create a customized plan to reach your goals.

I look forward to helping you transform your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! Cheryl Camacho # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: organizercoach98@gmail.com

Posted in Loving Yourself

You Do You

Make It Your Agenda . . . Nobody Else’s

We will always face external opinions on how to live, but our own inner voice should be our guide.

Sixteen months ago, I embarked on a self-discovery journey that is now nearing its end. While I had specific areas I intended to explore, I’ve learned unexpected and profound lessons along the way.

My first-ever journey began after graduating from high school. Growing up in a military family in the 1970s with an alcoholic stepfather, peace was elusive. Speaking out about such abusive situations felt impossible at the time.

Five months after graduation, I moved to Chicago with a friend whose family lived next door to us in Navy housing. This time away provided the necessary distance to begin my search for inner peace.

However, instead of focusing on my own needs, I found myself living in a way that pleased others. I wasn’t being true to the “broken” Cheryl who longed for peace and the freedom to be her authentic self without constant explanation.

As children, we are the recipients of our parents’ aspirations for our success in education and the pursuit of our full potential. This pattern of well-meaning influence can extend into adulthood, where friends might envision ideal partners or careers for us, and even spouses may harbor their own expectations. The people closest to us often have perspectives on how we should navigate life, stemming from affection and a desire for our happiness. 

However, these suggestions can sometimes originate from unmet needs, such as a parent seeking vicarious fulfillment or a loved one wanting us to fit a pre-established role. While their input warrants our consideration and appreciation, ultimately, our own inner compass must guide our decisions.

At times, this influx of advice can become overwhelming, leading to feelings of disapproval and self-doubt. These well-intentioned suggestions may inadvertently hinder our personal choices, causing us to question our judgment. We might even find ourselves adopting others’ desires before fully understanding our own. Energetically, this can manifest as resistance or a tendency to withdraw. 

It becomes essential to shed these external doubts and introspect to gain clarity on our personal aspirations.

Therefore, it is crucial to communicate our gratitude for the thoughts and ideas shared by our loved ones while firmly asserting our need to live authentically and make independent decisions. We can convey that learning from our own experiences is vital for personal growth and refining our judgment. Ultimately, our loved ones can find comfort in OUR happiness and the path WE choose, realizing that their role is to share in our joy as we pursue our goals.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

We Design Space!, 𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓵

For more in-depth support beyond this article, explore my personalized coaching programs. Schedule a free consultation to discuss what’s preventing you from achieving organized living spaces. We’ll pinpoint your obstacles and create a customized plan to reach your goals. I look forward to helping you transform your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! Cheryl Camacho # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Posted in Intentional lifestyle

The Beginning Is Always Today . . .

Starting Anew

Right now is an opportunity to begin anew; waiting for a specific date like a new year, month, or week isn’t necessary.

Life presents various opportune moments for new beginnings, such as the start of a year, graduation, career changes, or relocation. These transitions often provide inherent momentum that can propel us forward. However, the power to start fresh is not limited to these events. We can choose to reset at any point, whether it’s to overcome a difficult day or to mend a faltering relationship. This mental reset allows us to approach situations with a clean perspective.

The effectiveness of starting anew is amplified when we concentrate on our desired outcomes. Fixating on negative aspects tends to perpetuate them. It’s crucial to practice self-compassion during new beginnings. Adapting to change takes time, regardless of our enthusiasm for it. Patience is key; setbacks should be viewed as learning opportunities that contribute to our growth and progress.

The very act of deciding to start anew generates its own positive energy. This forward drive creates a pull, attracting the necessary resources to support our chosen path. While the journey may involve unforeseen detours, it’s an ongoing process, much like natural cycles with their phases of growth and dormancy. Each decision to begin again is a commitment to personal improvement and reaching our full potential.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

“A person who’s complete by themself doesn’t get bored or lonely,” 

Posted in Loving Yourself

Disappointment Can Lead To Acceptance

Disappointment can ground us in reality and prevent us from dwelling on what could have been.

Disappointment is an unavoidable risk when our expectations aren’t met. This can lead to a range of emotions, from mild sadness to anger, directed at ourselves, others, or the world. Although disappointment is a difficult and natural emotion, there are ways to cope.

Acknowledging and processing disappointment is crucial for personal growth and emotional well-being. One effective way to move forward is through journaling about the experience. This can involve detailing your initial hopes and expectations, contrasting them with the reality of the situation, and exploring the emotions that arise from the discrepancy. By putting your thoughts and feelings into words, you can gain clarity and perspective, allowing you to process the disappointment in a healthy way. This is what I do. . . . .

Disappointment can also serve as a valuable reality check. It can realign your expectations with the actual circumstances, preventing you from dwelling on what could have been and helping you to focus on what is. This can lead to a greater sense of acceptance and peace, enabling you to move forward with a more realistic outlook. 

Additionally, reflecting on the experience can help you identify any patterns or recurring themes in your disappointments. This self-awareness can be empowering, as it allows you to make informed decisions and adjust your expectations accordingly, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of future disappointments.

What’s more, processing sorrow can foster resilience and emotional strength. By learning to cope with setbacks and unmet expectations, you can develop the ability to bounce back from adversity and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.

Reflecting on past disappointments may reveal that some outcomes were ultimately better than our initial desires. Disappointment can lead to acceptance, wisdom, and the energy to start anew.

______________________________________

We Design Space!, 𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓵

If you require more comprehensive guidance than the information provided in my article, consider my personalized 1:1 coaching programs. Book a complimentary consultation to explore the factors hindering your journey toward organized living spaces. Together, we will identify your challenges and develop a tailored strategy to help you achieve your goals of simplifying your space. I anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you in transforming your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: organizercoach98@gmail.com

Posted in Writing!

We All Have A Unique Story

The meaning behind your characters’ actions is entirely up to you, regardless of who they are or what they’ve done.

We all have a unique life story, shaped by relationships and events that influence our identity and beliefs. Our experiences can either lead to negativity and victimization or empower us towards self-development, depending on our perspective and willingness to grow. 

The story we tell ourselves about our experiences makes all the difference.

Reflect on your own life story. If you feel peaceful about the past and trust in your ability to handle future challenges, you are framing your circumstances in a way that benefits you. Conversely, if you harbor guilt or resentment and often feel burdened by life, consider creating a new narrative for past and present events. 

Regardless of the individuals involved in your life and their actions, you have the power to assign meaning to those actions and define your role in your own life. By taking responsibility for your story, you can learn, grow, forgive, find compassion, and move towards a brighter future.

I’m currently writing a story about my mother and how she used humor to teach me life lessons, refusing to let me be the wallflower I so desperately wanted to be.  I want to share her story, and the story of our navy friends who became family and more, with the world.

From this point forward, choose a life story that supports you. 

Let it be a testament to your resilience and creativity. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself ample opportunities to learn. Remember, as the author of your own story, you have the freedom to create a masterpiece.

Happy writing ♥ Cheryl

Posted in Mini-Clinic Mondays

Mini-Clinic Monday

Mini Clinic: Organizing the Family Bathroom


The aim of this project is to completely transform a cluttered and disorganized family bathroom. The end result should be a space that is not only functional and clean but also efficient and comfortable for every family member to use. This means considering all family members’ needs, from young children to adults, and ensuring that the bathroom is accessible and safe for everyone.

The transformation will likely involve decluttering and organizing existing items, potentially adding storage solutions, and possibly even rearranging the layout (if your budget allows) of the bathroom to maximize space and efficiency.  The final result will be a bathroom that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, making the daily routines of everyone in the family easier.


Step 1: Declutter

  • Remove everything: Clear off countertops, shelves, and cabinets. Lay everything out on a surface.
  • Sort into categories: Group items by type—towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, first aid, etc.
  • Toss expired or unused items: Discard expired products, empty bottles, and anything no longer in use.

Step 2: Establish Zones

  • Create dedicated zones for:
    • Daily use items: Keep frequently used products (toothbrushes, soap, hand towels) within easy reach.
    • Hair and skincare products: Use a drawer or container for makeup, skincare, and hair tools.
    • Bathing essentials: Organize shampoos, conditioners, and body washes near the shower or bath.
    • Cleaning supplies: Store under the sink or in a closet, but keep them out of reach of children.
    • Family members’ items: If several family members use the bathroom, create personal bins or shelves for each person.

Step 3: Maximize Storage

  • Use drawer organizers: Keep small items like cotton swabs, toothpaste, and razors tidy.
  • Install shelves or baskets: Make use of vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or hanging baskets for extra storage.
  • Use clear containers: For deep cabinets or under-the-sink areas, use clear bins or baskets for easier access to items.
  • Towel hooks or racks: Mount hooks for each family member’s towel, or add a towel bar to keep them off the floor.

Step 4: Label & Maintain

  • Label containers and bins: Labeling helps everyone know where things belong and keeps the system working.
  • Implement a routine check: Once a month, check for items that need replenishing or discarding, ensuring the space stays clutter-free.

Additional Tips:

  • Add a laundry hamper: Make it easy for everyone to toss dirty towels and clothes directly into the hamper.
  • Childproofing: If you have young children, ensure that any sharp or hazardous items are stored securely and out of reach.

Products to Consider:

  • Stackable bins for under-sink storage
  • Over-the-door hooks for towels
  • Clear plastic containers for small items
  • Drawer dividers for toiletries
  • A lazy Susan for easy access to products in deep cabinets

Final Thoughts:

A well-organized family bathroom can streamline the morning and evening routines, helping every family member start their day more efficiently. Plus, an organized bathroom is easier to clean and maintain!

Happy Organizing! Cheryl

Posted in Love Your Body

Fitness For Life

Each step towards honoring and caring for our physical bodies enhances our inner and outer radiance.

Prioritizing consistent physical activity, such as walking, yoga, weight-training or biking, at every age fosters both physical and mental well-being. This focus on lifelong fitness promotes a positive mindset and a resilient body, demonstrating that embracing an active lifestyle is not about achieving perfection, but about cherishing and empowering yourself through movement.

Practicing consistently creates a strong and energetic foundation, which illuminates our path with confidence. Each step taken reaffirms our dedication to respecting our physical selves and cultivates an inner and outer glow.

The benefits of fitness extend far beyond physical health, promoting mental clarity, emotional stability, and unwavering self-confidence. It’s not about chasing youth, but embracing each stage of life with grace and strength. Nurturing a lifelong fitness practice fosters self-esteem, infusing life with purpose and vibrancy.

If you’re looking to kick-start or uplevel your fitness journey, ask yourself what kind of movement you would like to do. Maybe you choose what you already know and love. Maybe you’re looking for something new. Then, think about the experience you want and set an intention. 

Setting an intention, such as “I want to exercise to improve my health, feel stronger, and enhance my body confidence,” or “I want to have fun moving and giving my body permission to express itself,” can be a great way to support your fitness journey and help you achieve more specific fitness goals. 

Remember to acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments along the way; celebrate yourself, don’t compare yourself – showing up and taking care of your health is an achievement in itself.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl