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Before the pandemic, there was a constant need to keep going. When we weren’t sleeping, we were either working, going to work, or too busy with everything else after work. But as the world was put into a standstill because of quarantine, we had a pause like we have never seen before. All of the time we took doing all the things we have packed our schedule with was opened up, leading to an overwhelming sense of, “what now?”. I think COVID-19 has asked us all to go inward. When you go inward you cannot help but face the stuff you often push aside because life is busy.

 

Unfortunately, being able to face all that stuff that has been ignored has been difficult for some. I remember asking people, “how are you,” and the answer always being, “fine”. I cringed at how fake it all felt but I never really knew how to challenge someone to be more honest. I’m not saying we aren’t fine, I’m saying I would listen if you weren’t.

 

My dear friend, God bless his soul, passed away after a battle with alcoholism. During conversations where I reached out to see how he was, he was always ok and asking me how I was. I wish we had gotten real. I wish I could have gotten him to feel vulnerable enough to tell me about his heart’s pain.

 

What if COVID-19 was about chaining the surface way of life? I don’t know who needs to hear this, but one check-in per day is my goal these days, no body is telling me they are ‘great’ so I’m motivated to continue checking in with people. There is a lot of power in being vulnerable, but some people think it is the opposite. The truth is, being able to recognize that you aren’t doing well takes way more strength than turning a blind eye to it. 

 

Make the decision to show other people the importance of being vulnerable by taking time to pause, and check in with them. When they say they’re “fine”, I encourage you to tune into their emotions and truly analyze if they are okay. At the end of the day, everyone wants to feel seen and heard!

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Everyone has those days when you wake up and wonder how you’re going to possibly fit everything into your schedule with only 24 hours. Whether it’s running errands, finishing that report you’ve been putting off, or getting dinner cooked, it can seem like there is no end in sight. I’m here to let you know that you WILL get through it, and you CAN make it easier, and even enjoyable! It all begins with setting your intentions for the day. With a few easy steps, you will be able to feel your best as you take on the tasks that you want to accomplish! 

 

1. Start with gratitude 

Something that is easy to forget is how much of a blessing it is to wake up in the morning. It’s good practice to take a beat and just appreciate the ability to see another day, another sunset, and more opportunities to chase what you think is meant for you in life! Before you roll out of bed, think of all of the people and things you are grateful for, and you are setting yourself up for success.

 

2. Try working out in the morning

workout in the morning

I know it may seem like this will just tire you out more, but there have been studies that show that it actually is a great way to kick start your day! I find so much strength in being able to get up in the morning and move my body. Working out will make you feel refreshed and ready to take on the day, and also doesn’t hurt when it comes to self-confidence. So whether it’s going for a jog or walking on your treadmill, any movement can help start your day off with determination and strength on top of your mind.

 

3. Read or listen to an educational podcast for 20 minutes in the morning

Knowledge is power, and a lot of the knowledge we can receive is from listening to other people’s perspectives. One of my favourite ways to do that is through reading and educational podcasts! This can create healthy habits of actively listening, learning, and growing as an open and welcoming person. There are also podcasts out there for absolutely any interests you have, so you don’t ever have to worry about not finding something that suits you. The great thing about this is that you can listen to them while you’re working out!

This has been how I have been starting my days for a while, and I have never looked back. As long as I start my mornings this way,  the days go well. I’m a big believer in setting the standard for what my day can be, while also making sure to stop and enjoy the moments. Life is more than just getting the checklist done. It’s about taking in all of the blessings that we have, and appreciating the ability to do all the things that we have to do. So make sure to breathe, smile, and move forth in your day with confidence and gratitude.

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Can you believe it’s already fall? It feels as if New Year’s Day was just yesterday! Nevertheless, autumn is here, which brings lots of change in weather, leaves, and our schedules. Something that always stays constant through the change is the fact that you are loved and appreciated, and here at Niki Inc., we want you to know we are thinking of you during this Thanksgiving season. 

 

There is so much to be thankful for, and my family is always at the top of my list. It is such a blessing to be a mommy to my amazing kids, and a wife to my awesome husband. Family isn’t just blood though; it extends to the family that you choose, and that’s where all of you come in! I am so honoured to share such a wonderful space with you through these blogs, my Instagram page, and through the work I get to do with my superstars. We have celebrated so many wins this year, and I cannot stress enough how every single one of you has a part to play in that. For that, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Make sure you take some time today to tell your loved ones how much you appreciate them! There is a special kind of magic that comes with acknowledging how much love and blessings you have around you!

 

With all of that said, I hope you all have a lovely long weekend. Hopefully there is some turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing in your near future. We are sending all of our love to you and your families, and wish you a wholesome, loved-filled, experience. 

 

Cheers to giving thanks!

 

Love, Niki

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Like many people, I am a huge fan of the Olympics. Since I am of Greek descent, the games have such a dear place in my heart. Did you know that the first Olympics were held in the Greek city-state of Ellis in-get this-776 B.C.?! I am so proud to get to watch them every four years. 

It is so nice to see such talented athletes put their all into something they are so passionate about. Not only is it physically demanding, but it’s also mentally challenging. With the pressure of their teammates, their coaches, the country, and even themselves, there is lots to juggle. Despite all of this, they are able to take their places, and get the job done. This year’s Olympics ended up being Canada’s most successful non-boycotted games, winning 24 medals in total! That includes 7 gold, 6 silver, and 11 bronze. We had an overall standing of 11th. Go Team Canada! They all had a very important role in our success, and I am so proud of every single Canadian olympian. Here are a few Canadian athletes who stood out to me for their dedication, drive, and determination that was so inspiring to watch.

Canada’s Women’s Soccer Team – Congratulations on winning its first ever Olympic gold medal!

Damian Warner for Men’s Decathlon – The 31-year-old athlete from London, Ontario won Gold with over 9,000 points in ten events! Have we found our real life Superman?? He was also chosen as the flag bearer for the closing ceremony, which is a huge honour.

Kylie Masse, Sydney Pickrem, Maggie Macneil, and Penny Oleksiak for Women’s 4x100m Medley Relay – The ladies won bronze in this event! This medal also made Penny Canada’s most decorated Olympian! Go women, go!

Andre De Grasse for Men’s 100 metres – The runner from Markham, Ontario won bronze with his personal best of 9.89 seconds! What a huge moment!

Overall, the country did an amazing job this time around! As our most successful non-boycotted game yet, there was so much to celebrate. Since this was one of the biggest events we’ve had since COVID-19 pandemic, it felt even more important to the morale of the world. There is so much sadness going on in the world, but that’s why I have such a strong love for the Olympics. It reminds us of the power behind dedication, pride, and working hard to fight for what you are passionate about. I already can’t wait for the Summer Olympics 2024! 

Cheers to all of the Olympians! 

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Anyone who knows me also knows my passion for giving back to others. With the blessings we are given in this world, it’s important to share them with those around us. Unfortunately, there are so many people who have been overlooked. Whether it’s where they live, their status, or their visibility, those who are less fortunate have been invisible to many of the people who should be able to help them. 

 

One of the organizations that I have been passionate about is the Safe Hands Children Foundation. This organization is based in the Eastern African country, Uganda. The charity is a community based foundation that supports orphans, the vulnerable, and needy children. They push to give a chance to these less fortunate children to have a chance at a life that will give them all of their basic needs. With the money they receive, they provide education, clean water, food, and good news. What makes my heart so happy is despite their circumstances, there are so many smiles. Take a look!

If you’d like to take part in being a positive impact on these beautiful children, you can find more information on their Facebook and Instagram accounts! They will be able to direct you there in how to help through monetary donations, but also letters and words of encouragement! Even though it’s important to help those in need with financial support, it’s even more important for everyone to know that they are loved and appreciated. Money doesn’t bring longing happiness, but love can! 

 

We are all citizens of this world, and I firmly believe that it is our responsibility to make sure everyone is given the love and support they are entitled to as human beings. At the end of the day, we are all brothers and sisters, and we should care for each other like brothers and sisters. Never feel like any action is too small because every action counts. Cheers to making true change together! 

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Summer is finally here, and one of my favourite things to do in the warm weather is gardening! 

The thing I find most special about gardening is creating something out of the earth we live on. It’s more than just a hobby. It’s connecting with the world around us that we call home, and connecting with it in a way that brings joy and nourishment to everyone. It’s a win-win situation! 

I got into gardening after hearing the story of Ron Finley. In 2010, he planted some vegetables on a parkway. Unfortunately, he was asked to take the garden down by the City of Los Angeles. He took a break from gardening, but then came back with the proper resources and support from the community to fight for his vision.

He believed that everyone should know how to feed themselves so we aren’t so dependent on a system that’s all about profit. Ron was able to inspire significant changes to the laws that would allow people to grow food on parkways. He now has a Masterclass about gardening and has inspired many people to create their very own gardens. You can read more about him on his website, ronfinley.com.

This story is so dear to me because it is what ultimately inspired me to create my very own garden. Through my garden I find peace, fulfillment, and health! There’s no denying that making your own garden is more dependable, so if you have the means, I say why not? 

With the help of Angela (you can find her on Instagram @angelasorganicgarden), and some perseverance, I’ve been able to create my own garden. I’m most excited for my baby grape tomatoes to start growing! 

 

 

 

If you want to see more of my gardening journey, make sure to follow me on Instagram @nikiincto.

Happy gardening!

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Contact & Info:

Address:             Toronto, Ontario

Phone:                 1-416-568-9525

Email:                  info@nikiinc.ca

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