© 2025 Nadira R. Ramautarsing

Nadira R. Ramautarsing

  • Home
  • About
  • Beyond Influence Book Series
  • Coaching
  • Contact
  • No products in cart.
  • Home
  • Posts tagged "life"
12 July 2025

Tag: life

So Special?

Tuesday, 25 July 2017 by Nadira

”You are unique. Just like everyone else”. 

We all like to believe that we are so special. But are we really?

We all want to be seen, recognised for who we are, acknowledged, appreciated, loved, celebrated. We love to be chosen, whether it is getting picked out of the group to play sports in a team or your crush choosing you over all the other boys or girls in school.
We all want to be liked, making for popular hashtags such as #like #like4like #follow4follow, as we also want to be followed, because we want to show as many people as possible how special (and awesome) we are and our life is.

But at the same time…in today’s day and age…Swipe right, Swipe left…For you, there are 10 others. With over 700 million active monthly users on Instagram, chances are it’s even more than 10 ;-). Aren’t we all replaceable? What makes you so special really?

I know what you’re thinking…life isn’t Tinder (or Grinder or any of the other mating app’s out there)…and of course, not everyone is exactly like you, but there are enough with the same interests, ideals; similar talents, ways and even looks. The same sense of humor, way of talking, walking, fears, dreams, taste in music, fashion, art etc, etc. Is there anything exceptionally unique these days anyway? 

Also, did you know you’re actually programmed to think you’re special? It’s called Pseudo-exceptionalism—the unearned conviction that we are exceptional, superior to others because we were born…us. 
Consider this, and a simple (maybe a little too simple, but I can see logic behind it), formula by Tim Urban: Happiness = Reality – Expectations.

Most millennials have been raised by constantly being told they are ”special”. I mean, even the losing kids in contests get prizes and trophies these days, right? We receive rewards even without having to actually do something exceptionally better than others, simply because we are our special us and we showed up. Yet we are programmed to constantly compete from a young age, in sports, in beauty competitions, in business and so on…

Given the world we live in, and the fact that life in general isn’t really that easy…I think the harsh reality of life is catching up to many of us…With the automatic conviction that we are entitled to a great life, we end up very unhappy, because we expect things to come a lot easier in life.

A successful life, whether it’s a career or marriage , requires hard work, blood, sweat, tears and not just ”being special” or being entitled to, simply because we believe we are. ”If he/she can have it, so can I”… which could be true, but honestly, you will have to do something for it. Whatever it is you seek, won’t fall from the sky.

We look at the ”perfect”(ly staged) lives of others on Facebook and think the grass is greener, but tend forget that nobody posts about the struggles, the pain, the frustrations. We are programmed to always want (and aim for) the nicer car or the bigger house, without even thinking through whether it would really make us happy or give us actual meaning in life. Thus leading to unhappiness.

All of this made me think….maybe we should (try to) let go of the notion that we are so special? What’s so bad about accepting that we are all replaceable? No matter how talented, skilled, smart, beautiful…there will always be someone, somewhere…just as good (or maybe even better/more beautiful, talented etc.).
But really what’s so bad about that?

No one will ever be you in the completeness of you as a human being. But that will not bring you anything in life on it’s own. 

Life is too short to worry about being special. It’s already complicated enough. Just ride the hell out of the rollercoaster, work hard for what you want, make the best of it, enjoy it, and maybe try to leave the world a little bit better than it was before. To me there is enough special in that :-). 

”A flower doesn’t think of competing to the flower next to it. It just blooms”.

Love,

Nadira

P.S. I’m sure you’re really special in the eyes of at least one person in this world. Maybe that’s a bit of a consolation :-). 

accomplishmentsbeing specialbetter than otherscompetitionfeeling specialLessons learnedlifelife lessonslife's experienceslifestylemindsetpersonal growthSelf developmentsocial mediasuccessunrealistic expectationsWisdom
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
4 Comments

The Unknown

Monday, 31 October 2016 by Nadira

I’ve decided to let you guys in on one of the things I initially intended to keep to myself. Because it has appeared to be a valuable life lesson to me, I figured it won’t hurt me to expose my vulnerable side a little bit, as it might help a lot of you through your journeys as well.

One of my frustrations that I’ve been working through in the past few months is having difficulty with ”not knowing”. I’ve always known myself as someone who knows exactly what she wants. I would describe myself as the type who always had a plan and everything figured out, but the past year I felt completely lost. Now I bet most of you are quite surprised reading this, because I know I always seem to have to all together, but the truth is, I’ve actually been quite a mess…(just really good at hiding it 😉 ).

I found myself falling into this gaping hole, completely lost. Despite running two companies, I still had the feeling that I didn’t know what I wanted to do in life; I started questioning everything I was doing. I didn’t know who I wanted to be, I literally felt as if I didn’t know anything anymore,”who am I, what do I stand for, am I on the right path, am I (good) enough?”….And it was SO scary! I lost my vision, my purpose, my drive and mojo. Especially for a control freak like me, it felt like I was going through the worst time of my life. I thought I was losing it honestly. And the worst part was, nobody could help me. Because nobody can answer these questions. for you, you need to find your own way.

So after months of inner-struggling and constantly in agony due to everything which seemed to be”unknown”, I decided to let it go. Because fighting to know wasn’t working out, it was actually only making me doubt everything even more. I let go of the panic I felt when I thought about everything I thought I should have had figured out by age of 27. I let go of the tremendous amount of self-pressure and doubt and said to myself, ”you know what Nadira, you’ll figure it out”, it’ll become clear, just focus on doing the things that trigger your passion, make you happy and give you energy. ”Eventually all the dots will connect”.

And the moment I did that, and used my precious energy for doing good for myself instead of fighting with myself, everything started changing. I knew I needed a lot to change, I wasn’t happy with where I was, but I didn’t know which direction to go. But the moment I stopped pressuring myself in needing to know, my next steps started to become clear to me. Amazing opportunities came out of ”nowhere”, and new paths were created for me.

In conclusion: the unknown can be frightening, believe me, I know. But I also found it to be a place where I discovered abilities I didn’t even know I had. And I believe the unknown is also the same place where I’ll accomplish more than I ever dreamed possible. I would advice to let go of the fear and just embrace it, let it reveal all those things you would never encounter if you’d always want to control and plan out everything in advance. In the end, I found the unknown to be like a breath of fresh air, exactly what I needed when I needed it. I learned that not knowing doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing.

I hope you enjoy my ‘‘Parisian Chique” photo diary shot in the rain (Yes, we die-hard like that ;-)!). All outfit details are listed below. Also check out my last fall/winter 2016 favourites post for all my fall fashion must haves, which I’m sure you’ll love!

And remember this:
”We do not fear the unknown. We fear what we project into the unknown”- Teal Swan.

Love,

Nadira

 

BelievebusinessComfort zonecrisisdoubtfaithFall OutfitFall StylefashionblogFearfrench lookfrench styleinspirationlifelife decisionsmotivationnot knowingoutfit of the dayparisian stylepersonal growthpsychologySelf developmentselfconfidenceThe unknownTruthunknown
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

As I Began To Love Myself

Tuesday, 13 September 2016 by Nadira

I believe people come into your life for a reason, and always at the right time. I have several examples of beautiful souls that recently crossed my path just when I needed their influence and wisdom. One of them is a special lady who sent me this poem written by Charlie Chaplin on his 70th birthday. In this phase that I currently find myself in, I recognise so much of this poem that I just had to share it with you.

img_5386kopie
”As I Began To Love Myself” – Charlie Chaplin

As I began to love myself I found that anguish and emotional suffering are only warning signs that I was living against my own truth. Today, I know, this is AUTHENTICITY.

As I began to love myself I understood how much it can offend somebody as I try to force my desires on this person, even though I knew the time was not right and the person was not ready for it, and even though this person was me. Today I call it RESPECT.

As I began to love myself I stopped craving for a different life, and I could see that everything that surrounded me was inviting me to grow. Today I call it MATURITY.

As I began to love myself I understood that at any circumstance, I am in the right place at the right time, and everything happens at the exactly right moment, so I could be calm. Today I call it SELF-CONFIDENCE. 

As I began to love myself I quit steeling my own time, and I stopped designing huge projects for the future. Today, I only do what brings me joy and happiness, things I love to do and that make my heart cheer, and I do them in my own way and in my own rhythm. Today I call it SIMPLICITY.

As I began to love myself I freed myself of anything that is no good for my health – food, people, things, situations, and everything the drew me down and away from myself. At first I called this attitude a healthy egoism.Today I know it is LOVE OF ONESELF.

As I began to love myself I quit trying to always be right, and ever since I was wrong less of the time. Today I discovered that is MODESTY.

As I began to love myself I refused to go on living in the past and worry about the future. Now, I only live for the moment, where EVERYTHING is happening. Today I live each day, day by day, and I call it FULFILLMENT.

As I began to love myself I recognized that my mind can disturb me and it can make me sick. But As I connected it to my heart, my mind became a valuable ally. Today I call this connection WISDOM OF THE HEART.

We no longer need to fear arguments, confrontations or any kind of problems with ourselves or others. Even stars collide, and out of their crashing new worlds are born. Today I know THAT IS LIFE!

img_5341kopie

Love yourself!

Nadira

Full photo diary including all ready to shop outfit details below:

img_5307kopie
img_5297kopieimg_5370kopieimg_5282kopieimg_5327kopieimg_5305kopieimg_5300kopieimg_5337kopieimg_5504kopieimg_5483kopieimg_5295kopieimg_5332kopie

Shop my look (Click on the product pictures to go to shop):
blushribbeddress_lisamarie_06-01-15_mc_682447_aimage1xxlimage1xxl-2

wulterkens_golfer_cap_1image2xxl

Photography by Jesse Verboog.

bloggercasualcharlie chaplinchiqueentrepreneurfashionblogFashionbloggerFashionistaGrowthinner beautyinspirationlifelifestyleloveLove yourselfmindsetmotivationpersonal growthPositivityribbed dressSelf developmentself loveSophisticatedsportyStyleWisdom
Read more
  • Published in Love & Relationships, Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

I Had No Choice…

Sunday, 04 September 2016 by Nadira

…but to boss up and take control.

The other day I was watching one of my favorite tv shows Suits. Apart from the tremendously sexy Harvey Specter, I learn a lot about life from this show, which is why I would recommend everyone watching it.
In one of the episodes from some seasons back, Harvey asked Mike: ”What are your choices when someone puts a gun to your head?”. Mike answered: ”You do what they say or they shoot you?”, where Harvey replied: ”Wrong. You take the gun. Or pull out a bigger one. Or, you call their bluff. Or, you do any one of a hundred and forty six other things. If you can’t think for yourself, maybe you’re not cut out for this”.

IMG_5144kopie

If you take this dialogue and apply it to life in general, there is so much you can learn. We’ve all been in situations where we feel like we have no choice. Like we have a gun to our head and no other options. Truth is, we always have a choice. We have so much power, if you consider that by even only choosing to look at the glass half full instead of empty, it changes the situation (the power of choosing to think differently, already changes perspective). But also, there is always a way to make happen what you want to happen, even if it’s a long path.

IMG_5179kopie

I’m not ready to tell you guys what I’ve been dealing with, but I’ve been fighting my own battles. One of the things I’ve encountered is that wherever life takes you, know that you are so much stronger than you think. You have the ability to, in ANY situation, choose to boss up, to choose to keep fighting, to find ways to make happen whatever it is you want to make happen. There is always a way, so think outside the box and don’t let any ”gun” intimidate you into a corner where you’re convinced there are no other options or into  doing something you don’t want to.

Love,

Nadira

Wearing: Dress & Bag from SheIn. Photo diary including all direct shopping links below:

IMG_5150kopie

IMG_5100kopie

IMG_5182kopie

IMG_5075kopie

IMG_5204kopie

IMG_5128kopie

IMG_5164kopie

IMG_5123kopie

Shop my look: (Click on pictures to go to shop)

1469865773650484761314627562722014680611467772823920411675

Photography by: Jesse Verboog.

 

 

AmbitionBossChoiceDressFashionbloggerFashionistaGirlbossHarvey SpecterinspirationlifelifestylebloggermotivationPersonal Developmentpersonal growthSelf developmentSheInsuccessSuitsSummer ootdSummer outfitsummer styleWisdomYellowYellow dress
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

Nothing Changes, Until You Do

Monday, 01 August 2016 by Nadira

There is a lot happening in my life at the moment…It’s all very personal, so I cannot share any details until I’ve figured out the most important things for myself. It’s a time of deep reflection and contemplation for me, which will inevitably lead to change. It’s so scary because it’s unknown, and for the exact same reason it’s exciting as well. It’s difficult because it requires completely stepping out of my comfort zone and being honest to myself, which I haven’t been for a while.

IMG_4798kopie

All I know for sure is…Nothing changes until you do. The very definition of ”Insanity” by the great Albert Einstein, is ”doing the same thing over and over again, and expecting different results”.
So…if you want things to work out differently, you have to behave differently, which starts by thinking differently.

IMG_4833kopie

It’s so easy to evoke responsibility and blame everyone and everything else for the situation. The problem with that is that you’re only fooling yourself. YOU are the common denominator in every situation in your life. So always start with yourself whenever you’re in a situation you want to change. Ask yourself: ”What can I do to change the situation?”

IMG_4903kopie

An example is that I often observe women around me dating the same kind of men, and not the good kind. They’re not happy, yet they will keep attracting those until they learn the lesson and choose differently….and that goes for pretty much everything else in life.

IMG_4828kopie

Sometimes it means sucking up your pride and realising that you’re in your own way of finding happiness. It means it’s time to be really honest with yourself, instead of that story you keep telling yourself.

”The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new” – Socrates. For more on the subject of change, read my past blog ”Change”.

Love,

Nadira

Full photo diary and all outfit details below (Click on product pictures to shop the item). Another lovely fashion shop you ladies will love me for sharing is Romwe. Gorgeous, high quality fashion shipped really fast internationally.

IMG_4959kopieIMG_4864kopieIMG_4825kopie1IMG_4922kopieIMG_4900kopiekopieIMG_4928kopieIMG_4850kopieIMG_4806kopieIMG_4816kopieIMG_4797kopieIMG_4968kopieIMG_4849kopie

Outfit details (Click on pictures to go to shop the look): Blouse: Romwe.

1463016958104448382  g1800678__kelly_20.04.16_mc_807394

1462756272201468061

 

 

 

 

 

 

Similar:
clq6250_-26f3602110_1

beautybusinessChangeentrepreneurEntrepreneurshipfashionFashionbloggerFashionistafinding happinessfood for thoughtinspirationlifelife changeslifestylelifestylebloggermotivationpersonal growthromweRomwe fashionSelf developmentStylestylebloggerStylishsuccesstaking responsibility
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
5 Comments

27

Thursday, 02 June 2016 by Nadira

tenkel1kopie

I can’t believe it, because most of time I feel like I’m still that little girl discovering the big fascinating world around her…but yes, as of today (2nd of June 2016)…I’m officially 27!

One of the things I repeatedly hear is ”Your life is perfect”. Believe me, my friends, it’s not. I have my fair share of struggles, however, I choose to share the positive with you.

I prefer to count my blessings instead of my troubles. 

IMG_2760kopiekopie

You know you’re blessed when you are genuinely loved, appreciated and valued; when you have a healthy body, an intelligent mind, a roof over your head, good food on the table, millions of opportunities to make your dreams and goals come true, but also enough challenges to make you stronger and keep growing. You know you’re blessed when you can enjoy beautiful sunsets, and all the other little things you tend to take for granted. When you can breathe in clean air and feel safe. You know you’re blessed when if people ask you what you want for your birthday, you can’t come up with anything, because you already have everything. I honestly couldn’t be more grateful, so I’m celebrating life, in its perfect imperfection!

27 & The best is yet to come!

Love,

Nadira

P.S.Scroll down for more pictures, outfit details and direct shopping links.

*Update, June 3, 2016: You know you’re blessed when you’ve received almost 1000 of the sweetest birthday messages!
I’m overwhelmed, thank you from the bottom of my heart!!*

IMG_2843kopiekopiekopieTrio1kopieIMG_2753kopiekopieTrio2kopieIMG_2752kopiekopieScreenshot 2016-06-02 19.58.52

Outfitdetails: Dress & Shoes – Missguided.
Lipstick: Candy K by Kylie mixed with Sierra NYX Cosmetics.

Shop my look (click on pictures to go shop):

de903173_vanessa_27.01.16_mc_708520f3600977_livia_24.07.15_mc_494863

Similar Options:

clq2664_-26mainclq4464_-4mainclq4516_-19mainde902965_lisa_marie_14.01.15_mc_hm_695110_ashp7839__2_1shp8259_-5main
IMG_2795kopiekopie

birthdaygirlBlessingbusinessCelebrationcontemplationDreamsentrepreneurEntrepreneurshipfashionblogFashionbloggerFashionistagoaldigerGoalsgratitudeGrowthinspirationlifelifestylebloggermotivationnudenude heelspersonal growthreflectionSelf developmentsuccesssummer dressessummer stylewhitewhite dress
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

Whatever Is Good For The Soul…

Sunday, 25 October 2015 by Nadira

Wandering through nature, with everything around me in transition, I finally find myself having a quiet moment in between what’s just a blur of busyness. I realised as I was looking around me, that constantly being in some sort of transition/progress/growth is the basic foundation of life in general. If it weren’t, life would be really boring, though it can be overwhelming at times. Speaking of overwhelming, there is so much going on right now, which is also one of the reasons why this is one of the longest periods that I haven’t been blogging.

IMG_0066p

What’s happening in short: My textile company Customized Wear is expanding (fast). Next to Wulterkens Lifestyle, my brand Wulterkens is getting divided into Wulterkens Clothing (Casual wear) and Wulterkens Sport, with new collections of both launching end of november, with an entire new look and feel!
And, as if I wasn’t busy enough, I’ve decided to start a third company ”Madame Selfmade” together with an amazingly talented lady. Madame Selfmade is a networking, motivating and learning platform providing a blueprint for all ambitious individuals, to explore their passion and create the life they want by providing guides and tools in several forms towards fostering the right habits, attitude and mindset that will enable one to achieve happiness, personal goals and success more efficiently. More about Madame Selfmade in my next blog. Oh anddd I’m officially starting with my Master thesis!

2015-10-24 14.35.13-2

Don’t ask me where I get the time, because to be honest, I have been struggling, but on the other hand, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Comfort is an illiusion anyway. I’m just really grateful that I am able to do so many amazing things that I’m passionate about. One thing I have really learned these past few weeks is the importance of quality me-time, even if it’s just an hour in the week. I am actually scheduling it in now, because otherwise it simply doesn’t happen. Next to that, I’ve found that starting the day with 30 minutes of meditation, affirmations and visualizations in combination with a good workout, works like magic to get through the day. However, this does require some discipline to get up extra early, which I don’t always have, because I’m not a morning person, but I’m working on it!

IMG_9942p

Whether it’s going to the spa/salon, meditating, sleeping in, taking a long bath, going for a workout or stroll through a beautiful environment, cooking, listening to some music, curling up with a good book, doing something creative like painting or writing. Whatever is good for the soul….do that! 

IMG_0050p

I’ve given up on obligations if they are not work related and time sensitive. Usually it’s in the weekends that you get more social, visiting family or hanging/going out with friends. I’m not sure if you’ll be able to relate, but if you run 2 businesses, are setting up a third and are in pursuit of your master’s degree at the university, there is little energy left to go to family birthday parties, and other social obligations. If you have energy, you should go, but if you don’t, don’t feel guilty about it. Accept that it’s part of the choice you’ve made, and you cannot have everything. My rule is: if it’s not going to give me any energy (rather take what little I have left), I’m not going. Keeping to this rule and choosing yourself above social obligations will prevent you from starting the week exhausted. It will make you enjoy the experience so much more if you go, and give you peace of mind when you decide not to go. Of course, if you don’t go, make sure you re-schedule some quality time with the people some other time, they will completely understand. And if they don’t, well…that’s not really your problem.

IMG_0113p1

One thing you will find along the way is that the best investment of your time and energy is in yourself. This is not egoistic in any way, because if you can’t be the best version of yourself, you’re not able to give the best to your surroundings. So by investing in you, those significant others will only benefit more too.

IMG_0015p

I hope this little piece will give you some energy. My blogs will be a little bit shorter in the future, due to being shorter on time, but there is a new one coming up next week. Also, the giveaway I have been promising you will start a litter later than anticipated. It’s worth the wait, I promise! The new Wulterkens’ collections launch at the end of november.

Lots of love,

Nadira

IMG_0119p

Outfitdetails:
Boots & Pants: Zara (old collections)
Coat & Faux Fur Gilet: Missguided (old collections)
Sweater: WE (old collections).
Bracelets: Anadyla || Earrings: Swarovski.

IMG_0082pIMG_0036p

alone timeBalanceBossbabebusinessEnergyentrepreneurEntrepreneurshipFallFall OOTDFall OutfitFall StylefashionblogGirlbossGrowthhow to dealinspirationintrovertlifelifestyleMadame Selfmademe-timemeditationmotivationMultipreneurProgressquality me-timequality timesaying noSelf developmentsocial obligationsStudentsuccessTimeTransition
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

You’re More Successful Than You Think: 15 Signs

Monday, 14 September 2015 by Nadira

 

For the past few days I’ve been reflecting on the concept of success, and from personal experience, especially when you hold high standards for yourself (like I do), it can sometimes feel like you’re a bit of a failure. Usually we tend to focus on the big picture, which takes (loads of) time to achieve, and we forget the ‘’little things’’ that make us grow better. Under the veil of ‘’The only time you should look back, is to see how far you’ve come’’, and ”It’s not about the destination, but the journey”, I’ve come up with 15 signs of success that we tend to forget to recognize in the process of getting where we want to be.

  1. You have raised your standards.

You don’t tolerate certain negative behavior anymore, from others, but also from yourself. You believe in accountability and taking responsibility for actions. You spend your time wisely with only those who add value, instead of those who steal your energy and fill your life with pointless drama.

  1. You are aware that failure and setbacks are part of life and growth.

Nobody has success 100% of the time, life is not a Disney story ( and even Disney stories depict setbacks!).
Life is about victories and losses (ying & yang). Every setback can be a stepping stone to something better, if you choose to look at and handle it that way. But really there is no such thing as a setback. It’s all just part a fun rollercoaster journey.

  1. You accept what you can’t change.

Our power only reaches to a certain degree in many cases, especially when you are dependent on external factors. If you can’t change it, change the way you look at it. If you can change your negative perspective on situations to a positive one, then you are successful.

  1. You change what you can.

On the same note, there are many things we do have control over. Successful people don’t sit around accepting the negatives that are changeable. They get out there and do something about it!

5. You let go of things that don’t make you feel good.

Self-love is success. Love yourself enough to say ‘no’ to anything that doesn’t make you happy, doesn’t serve your purpose, or drags you down. It’s not narcissistic or egoistic, because if you don’t choose you, no one will.

IMG_0797

  1. You have learned to appreciate who you see in the mirror.

Love yourself. You are awesome.

  1. You know ‘’your people’’ who would do anything for you.

You know exactly who really has your back and who only pretends that they do. It’s a painful realization and process, but once you learn to see the signs,  you can stay away from those people.

  1. You’re grateful

Because you know you’re blessed. Even though life is not perfect, there is always plenty to be thankful for.

  1. You applaud for others’ successes.

You know what it takes to create success, and you admire others for reaching it. When others succeed, it doesn’t mean you fail. You applaud the people who rise to the top. The more positive energy you give to other people’s victories, the more you will create your own.

  1. You have passions & goals that you pursue.

You have unique gifts and talents. You know you have something wonderful to contribute to the world. Not only do you know it, you pursue it. It’s this excitement of something to look forward to, that drives you.

IMG_98811

  1. You refuse to be a victim.

You know that life doesn’t always happen to you. Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. No matter what happens, rise up and conquer anyway.

  1. You don’t care what other people think.

You can’t please everyone, and you know it. You know that the standards with which society judges people is unrealistic. So you just keep true to yourself and love the person you are.

  1. You love deeply and open yourself up to be loved by others.

Love is risky, and sometimes scary, because there is always the risk of rejection or getting hurt. If you open your heart enough to love and be loved, then you are successful.

  1. You always look on the bright side.

It’s all about the perspective you choose. Life can be full of disappointments –Or, learning opportunities. No negative experience is ever wasted as long as you learn from it.

  1. You are happy.

To me, pure happiness with what is, is the ultimate definition of success. It doesn’t matter what the balance is in your bank account, how big your house is,  or how many fancy vacations you take. If you are happy, then you are successful in life.

I hope you can recognize a lot of these signs and that this will give you a little motivation boost to keep at it. Don’t worry if you find yourself not at the above mentioned points yet, because it’s always a process, take your time, just keep moving forward.

Keep growing and learning!
Lots of love,

Nadira

Outfitdetails: Straight Outta Gym Tshirt by Wulterkens. Blazer & Boots from Zara, Hat from Missguided, Skirt from Nasty Gal.

P.S. There is a big giveaway coming up soon. To prevent missing out, sign up on the blog, you will automatically receive an email when the giveaway is available.

BalancebusinessGrowthhappinessinspirationlifelovemindsetmotivationPersonal DevelopmentProcessRelationshipsSelf ActualizationState of mindsuccessYing and Yang
Read more
  • Published in Business & Entrepreneurship, Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

The Unfair & The Precious

Tuesday, 09 June 2015 by Nadira

IMG_8510p1
The past 2 weeks have been like a crazy, emotional rollercoaster. From celebrating that selected items of the Wulterkens Fitness Collection are available at Intersport DUO, to mourning the loss of a very close friend, almost family of ours.

It makes me realize that I am more alive than ever, so deeply experiencing these highs and lows. More so it makes me appreciate life more than ever. Like a slap in the face, the realization that it all can be over, just like that, and you have no control whatsoever. It doesn’t matter who we are, what we do, how many followers we have on Instagram and how much money in our bank account. Scary isn’t it?

The Priest in the church at the farewell ceremony said it beautifully: ‘’The only thing we are guaranteed from the first moment we breathe in life, is Death’’.

IMG_8586p

It’s exactly a week ago, June 2nd,  since I turned 26; needless to say it wasn’t much of a celebration. The day itself flew by really fast, because I had my Digital Marketing exam (part of my part-time Master’s program at the University), and of course, due to everything (emotions, loads of work), I still had a lot of last minute studying to do.
I did however, take that night, and the days after, as days of reflection. Reflecting on life, which suddenly seemed more precious than normal. I was overwhelmed by all the sweet birthday wishes from family, friends, (business) acquaintances and even strangers. I am extremely grateful for all the love and everything in this life.

IMG_8518p

I took a step back and realized that, I’m not where I want to be in life yet, though I know I am on the right path towards this, and I am getting closer every day, step by step.
However, if somehow, it is decided that my time on this earth is over, I will be more than satisfied looking back on life. Of course, there is still so much I would want to have accomplished, and yes, I would have wanted to see more of this beautiful world.  But I’ve been privileged, in so many ways. Maybe you guys think it’s creepy that I think this way, and believe me, I have absolutely no intention of leaving anytime soon, but I do think that it’s important to reflect on things, because it does effect the way you move forward in life.

IMG_8539pcut

We, as a society are automatically pressured into always wanting and needing more. More money, more cars, bigger boats, more convenience, more luxury. And in the end, we’ve spent all our precious time chasing all this, and when we’re gone, well, we don’t take any of it with us (as far as I know).
It’s never going to be enough anyway, everytime you’ve reached a milestone, it’s likely you’re already busy with achieving another one, because we’re always growing and wanting more.

IMG_8559p

So for myself, I’ve decided that I want to hold on to this ‘’freedom’’. Being able to be satisfied with the little things, the amazingly loving people around me, every sunset and sunrise, being alive, and healthy. And the rest…is extra!
Don’t get me wrong, I will still be working hard to achieve my goals, but I will give myself more of a break once in a while. There will always be more important things, because we set such high expectations for ourselves (atleast, I do). However, let’s say it would be your last day on this earth. My bet is that suddenly, the things that we are always so busy with, and are so important, aren’t even close to important anymore. You have to ask yourself, what would be important on that day? And I think that whatever that is, should be the focus moving forward.

The sudden and unfair loss of someone so young, full of life and love, just puts these things into perspective.
Life is unbelievably precious, spend it wisely!

Love,

Nadira

IMG_8593pcut

We went to the beautiful city centre of Utrecht and discovered some gorgeous, rare spots, most would not guess to be Utrecht, in the Netherlands. I’ve been wanting to do an ‘’All White Everything’’-look for some time now. I was wearing my sneakers for convenience and the plan was to finally do a shoot with my beautiful Giuseppe Zanotti X Kanye West ‘’Cruel Summer’’ Heels, I got some time ago (2013) and are more like a trophy in my closet. They are gorgeous, but not very comfortable to walk in, especially not in the city centre of Utrecht haha. So it turned into two different looks, sporty and chique. Which one is your favorite?

IMG_8623p1
Outfitdetails: Dress: ASOS, Sandals: Giuseppe Zanotti X Kanye West: Cruel Summer, Sneakers: Nike, Necklace: Swarovski, Metallic Tattoos: Chique Tattoos; get 10% off with code NADIRA on www.chiquetattoos.nl
IMG_8562pcut

”And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years” – Abraham Lincoln

IMG_8454

”At the end of the day, let there be no excuses, no explanations, no regrets” – Steve Maraboli

IMG_8648p1cut

AppreciationAttitudebeautyBeliefDeathEmotionsentrepreneurFamilyFriendsgratitudeGrowthlifelifestyleLossmindsetMourningPersonal DevelopmentPreciousreflectionRollercoasterScarceState of mindThe Little ThingsUnfair
Read more
  • Published in Self-Discovery & Growth, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments

27 Ways To Get In Shape For Summer

Tuesday, 05 May 2015 by Nadira

With only about 6 weeks until summer officially kicks in, it’s time to get movin’! We all want to enjoy summer 2015 by looking at our best. There is a lot you can do in 6 weeks if you’re disciplined enough to stick to the next 27 steps. Who’s with me?

  1. Find your Why (Motivation) If you have a motivation to get in shape, which is your personal reason why you want to get healthier and fitter, you are most likely to pursue it. If your WHY isn’t convincing enough you are most likely to give up when things get hard. So figure out your WHY and if you like, share it with me in the comment section!
  2. Make a plan Planning is everything. Stick to a certain meal plan/pattern, and make a workout schedule. If you have it written down in your planner, you will have to move towards actually doing it. If you know what you have to eat, you will make proper arrangements (grocery shopping, cooking) to make it happen! As with everything, Good planning = Success!
  3. Love yourself & Believe in yourself You are beautiful, worthy, and lovable and you can do anything you set your mind to! Say it with me! This comes before everything and is regardless of how you look and how much you weigh!
  4. Patience: Remember there is NO easy way As easy as it is to put on the pounds, it’s not that simple to lose them. You have to keep in mind that you will really have to WORK, the fat is not going to magically disappear in a day, unless you still have the metabolism of a 16 year old (oh how I miss those times!). There are no magic pills, so be patient, progress takes time.
  5. Replace all of your drinks with H2O & Drink yourself skinny Water is the only liquid your body needs, and contains zero calories, so by replacing all your other soft drinks, juices, coffee (in excess of 2 cups a day) and other (sport)energy drinks with water you can cut out all unnecessary calories. Just by doing this you will notice immediate difference in your waistline. In case you find water a bit dull you can spice it up by adding a little bit of fresh mint, lemon or other fruit. My favorite summer drink is sparkling water with a slice of lemon, refreshing and healthy!
  6. Don’t forget the Royal part of the day You can skip meals (though you shouldn’t), but one you should never skip is breakfast! Breakfast, which is the meal you have within an hour after you wake up, is essential for starting your body’s engine. Research has shown that people who eat breakfast burn more calories throughout the day than those who don’t. Plus breakfast is the most fun meal of the day, because you can have a little bit more of everything since you will burn it off throughout the day anyway. Breakfast tip: Make sure it’s protein rich.
  7. Eat something (Healthy) every 2 hours By eating something every 2 hours you increase your metabolism, which is your bodies mechanism to burn calories and fat. It’s similar to an engine, fuel it up with gasoline and it get’s rolling. Keep your body kicking constantly to burn more calories (even when not active) by eating regularly.
  8. Divide your Meals into 6-8 small portions a day If you eat every 2 hours, it means you eat 6-8 times a day. Make sure you plan out your meals, so instead of 3 big portions a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner), you make it at least 6 smaller portions, so yet get hungry when 2 hours have passed. In the beginning, when you’re not used to eating smaller portions yet, you might still feel hungry after eating a meal. In this case drink loads of water after your meal to give you a full feeling.
  9. Prepare Your Meals and Snacks to avoid grabbing Unhealthy stuff. Preparation is essential to successfully eating healthy and clean. Without preparation you will grab the next best thing available when hungry and I bet you 100 euro’s that it isn’t close to healthy. Plan and prepare your meals before you start your day.
  10. Limit your stock of yumminess (or don’t buy at all) If you’re like me and you lack discipline and self-control, the best thing is to make sure you just don’t have any yumminess in the house. That way you can avoid cheating and binging when you’re not supposed to.
  11. Know the difference People often mistake the feeling of being hungry with actually being thirsty, moody or just feeling like a snack. If you know you just had a meal, your body is probably in need for hydration. Emotional eating is a common reason as to why people are overweight. If you’re feeling down, talk to a friend, go shopping, or best, go workout, but whatever you do, don’t get comfy on the coach with a can of Pringles.
  12. Keep it Balanced Keep your plate balanced by adding the right amount of healthy carbs, fats and proteins. The closer you get to summer, the lower you go into your carbs, while you add in proteins and healthy fats. Never cut out healthy carbs completely, it’s an essential fuel to your body. Keep away from refined and processed sugar (your body doesn’t need sugar, ever!). For more regarding nutrition, read here.
  13. Don’t Count Calories There are many people who will disagree with me on this, but in my experience, counting calories doesn’t really have any added value. If you eat the right things in the right proportions and you exercise, you will be fine. Counting calories only makes you overly self-conscious and takes way too much time. Instead of looking at the amount of calories a product contains, look at the values of fat, protein and carbohydrates to get an indication of whether it is right to eat or not.
  14. Don’t Dare to step on that Scale It’s a big mistake to measure your progress by weighing. Your body weight is composed of many things, and thus might fool you and lead to frustration and even giving up.IMG_7502photoshop
  15. Measure your Progress by taking Measurements & Pictures. You can measure your progress best by taking your measurements, taking pictures, measuring your fat% and just by looking in the mirror or referring to your belt. Your eyes are in this case more reliable than your scale. Read more here on why.
  16. Find an Activity/Sport you like A few of the points I’m mentioning below are fitness related, because fitness is my go to sport, but to be able to keep the fun and consistency in it, it’s important you find an activity that you really enjoy. It can be from dancing to any kind of sport, as long as your heart rate goes up. Some ways of exercising are more effective than others (in the long term), which is why I personally prefer Fitness.
  17. Make a Workout Schedule of at least 3 times a week, preferably 5-6 Make a regular workout schedule and stick to it. Make sure you break some sweat at least 3 times a week, but preferably 5-6 times if you want to achieve more progress fast. It’s a commitment, but it will be worth it. Make sure that these workout sessions are never shorter than 25 minutes and never longer than 75 minutes. Honestly, anything less than 3 times is nice, but will not get you in shape within 6 weeks.
  18. If you do cardio, always do HIIT Cardio Lots of you love to go running, spinning or do other forms of cardio. What most of us lack is time, but if you want to burn a significant amount of calories, you have to spend a lot of time doing cardio right? WRONG. The most efficient and effective way is to do HIIT Cardio, you will burn more calories (even later on when you’re not working out anymore) and you can do it in just 20 min. Read more on HIIT Cardio here.
  19. Build in Rest for your Muscle groups For those who do choose to lift weights, or do anything that really builds muscle mass: Your muscles need rest to repair and grow, so make sure you have 48 hours in between before training the same muscle groups again. Tips on Weight training & Exercises can be found here.
  20. Snooze or you Lose Sleep is one of the most important ingredients to a fit and healthy body. In some cases it can be even more important than exercise. Sleep abbreviation can lead to increased cortisol (stress hormone) levels and cortisol makes your body store fat. So snooze it for at least 7-8 hours/night!
  21. Get a Workout Buddy One of the best known motivations is having a workout buddy, who encourages you and dares you to get your booty off the couch and out of your comfort zone. Challenge each other, set goals together and have fun! (Only not too much fun & chatter, you do actually have to put in the sweat!)
  22. Make a Music Workout Playlist The right music can literally push you through your workout. Make a playlist (or different ones for different kinds of workouts). Find the songs that get you pumped up and motivated. Another thing I love about my music is that it drowns out every other noise, so I can focus on the exercise and the music.
  23. Workout in Style My favorite source of motivation! Hip, Stylish, Funky and Comfy workout clothing is a great motivation. Especially if it’s Wulterkens haha! You get to ‘’dress up’’ and sweat in style, which is a must for every fashionista. Knowing you look great, makes you feel great, and makes the process of working out more fun.
  24. Don’t compare yourself to others This one is so important! We are being flooded by pictures of beautiful abs and booties on Instagram and other social media. You don’t know their story, so don’t compare yourself to others. Every body type is different and some fitness models aren’t achieving their looks in a natural way. This can lead to you overtraining or starving yourself to achieve something that is not naturally possible. The thigh gap trend is another example. Just focus on yourself, be consistent, work hard, eat healthy, be patient and you will see results.
  25. Balance with a Cheatday (Yeah baby!) Proper nutrition counts for 70%, which is why they say abs are made in the kitchen. I do, however believe in moderation, so I believe that if you stick to a clean, healthy diet, you can enjoy a little bit of goodness every day. Or, as most fitness athletes do, schedule one day in the week, when you eat whatever it is you want. Pizza, Nutella pancakes, whatever it is, you can eat it, but only on that significant day. You don’t have to feel guilty about it, a cheatday can actually boost your metabolism, plus it keeps you sane during the week, because you know you have something to look forward to.
  26. Stop stopping Make a plan and stick to it. Don’t stop, because every time you do, you need to start all over again, and starting is the hardest part!
  27. Stick to a Healthy Lifestyle during and after summer Keep your meals healthy and stay active, during and after summer to avoid gaining the weight again very fast. Try to balance your cocktails and late night dinners with exercising the next day. Please don’t starve yourself the next day, since this will slow down your metabolism, and your body will store more fat. Make it your lifestyle to eat several small, healthy & balanced portions a day, with the occasional cheatmeal/day, exercise 3 times a week, sleep well, and drink lots of H2O. you will feel great and look great all through the year. IMG_7543pc

Good luck ladies! If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask in the comment section.  And remember, good things come to those who sweat!

Love, Nadira

Outfit: Wulterkens SS15 Sport Collection.

IMG_7764photoshoplogo

IMG_7515p

AbsAfslankenAfvallenBalanceBelieveBootyBuikspierenCalorieenCaloriesCardioCheatdayCheatmealDedicationdisciplineExerciseFitFit lichaamFit LifestyleFitdutchiesFitfamFitgirlsFitness & FoodFitness FashionGezondheidGirls who LiftGrowthHealthHealth tipshealthyinspirationlifelifestyleloveMealprepmotivationMusclesMusicNutritionNutrition tipsPatienceShapeSleepSpierenSportSportswearStylesuccessSummerSummerbodyTipsVoedingWays toWegenWeightworkoutWorkout tipsZomer
Read more
  • Published in Health & Fitness, Written Archives 2013-2018
No Comments
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • Home
  • About
  • Beyond Influence Book Series
  • Coaching
  • Contact
TOP