Look & see: Bo-Kaap Kaleidoscope 

The residents of Bo-Kaap are spending the day refreshing the colours of their houses, and you’ve offered to lend a hand! They’ve given you their wishlist, so it’s time to decide which colours should be mixed together. Write your answers below, and let’s get painting! 

Download here. 

Brain games: Tongue tanglers 

This is a tricky one! Say the colour that you see – not the actual word! How fast can you go? 

Download here. 

Word whizz: True colours 

Let’s have some fun with the clever words and colours! Try connecting each colour idiom to its correct meaning! 

Download here. 

Craft: Take it for a spin 

Make your own bright and bold spinners to see colour theory in action. 

Download here. 

Fun with numbers: Funky fruit & veg 

Sara is a fruit & veg seller who wants to help her customers “eat the rainbow”, so she needs to know if she has enough of every colour. Add up the foods below based on their colour, then write down the total for each one.  

Download here. 

Want more fun learning activities? Subscribe to Super Kids magazine today! 

Photography: Cameron Adams, Shutterstock, Courtesy Images

The post Activities to keep your kids entertained on road trips (and make travel seamless for you) appeared first on TFG Media.

1. Bronzed and beautiful  

Adding a bronzer and contour to the skin not only helps chisel the face, but it also brings a warmth to areas that can look sun kissed and glowy, even as autumn falls upon us. Cream bronzers give you more control over application, allowing you to concentrate on the product in specific areas, while a powdered bronzer is ideal for seamless blending and easy layering. The right shade of bronzer is dependent on your skin tone, so take care when choosing your depth of bronze – because after all, no one wants to look sunburnt instead of softly sculpted when it’s just the wrong shade of bronze.  

@kkaobykkb How do you apply your powder bronzer ?👀 Using the KKAÖ Beauty Artist Essential Powder Palette 👑😍 How to apply Powder Bronzer #bronzer #makeuptipstiktok ♬ original sound – KKAÖ by KKB 👑💖

2. Smoke that eyeshadow all the way out  

Smokey eyeshadow will always have a place in the makeup world, it just depends on how deep you want the shades to go. In autumn, smokey tones lean into deeper browns as opposed to harsh black and grey. Opt for a pumpkin spice shade across the lids, with a rich brown in the corners and crease line to deepen the shadow. A brown winged eyeliner finishes the look, while a touch of brown along the lower lash line adds even more smoke to the fire.  

@reigncarterr This is my Suit’s Everybody Smokey Eye 🤎 Products Used: @hauslabs Chocolate Paint @beautybay 42 Nudes Pallet @inglot_cosmetics 77 Gel Liner For in-depth guidance so you feel confident in your skills, join my online education via the link in my bio ✨ – #smokeyeyes #smokyeye #smokyeyes #makeupartist #makeupcourse #makeuptutorial ♬ original sound – REIGN CARTER

3. Bold lips bring the drama 

Often, we focus on the eyes when it comes to putting together a makeup look, but sometimes it’s a pigmented lip that can really pack a punch. Whether you are opting for a bold red, deep burgundy or a classic 90s brown, enhancing your lips on your wedding day can take your bridal makeup look to the next level. While matte lipstick was at the height of makeup back in 2016, it seems it has made its way back into the makeup world – just a bit more hydrating and more comfortable to wear. A matte finish is the way to go if you don’t want to worry about re-applying your lipstick throughout the wedding, and a trusty lipliner will ensure the sharpest edges to your darker shade.  

@megxfenwick Dark vampy reds only😍🥀 using @maccosmetics ‘chestnut’ lipliner with ‘diva’ silky matte lipstick❤️ #lipstick #lipcombo #lipliner #redlips #redlipstick ♬ Dracula – Tame Impala

4. Sparkle, shimmer and shine the night away 

A little sparkle will always go a long way, and when the nights start getting a little chillier, the shimmer needs to be turned up a notch for our autumn brides. Highlight those cheekbones, collar bones and brow bones to make them pop as the camera catches the light. Frosted makeup may be an older trend resurfacing, but we’re making it more bridal and elegant by leaning into the warmer shimmers on certain areas of the face. A top tip if you don’t enjoy full-on sparkle is to highlight the inner corners of the eyes for a subtle moment.  

@sheglam Become a sparkle queen with this shimmer mist! 🪩🌟 ID: 111309343 #glitterspray #bodymist #glitterspraybottle #bodyshimmer #bodyshimmerreview #bodyshimmerspray #highlighterspray #SHEGLAMMusthaves #SHEGLAM ♬ 原聲 – SHEGLAM

5. Warm tones and rich colours  

With the changing season, the summer sun fades, and autumn palettes come alive with their tones. It’s important to focus on warmer shades such as cinnamon, orange, and rich burgundy hues that can add the necessary warmth to your skin on your wedding day. One thing to note is that these colours can become very overpowering very quickly, so be sure to use them sparingly. If your cheeks are brighter, keep the lips and eyelids more subtle. If your eyeshadow features deeper browns and pumpkin spice shades, opt for a nude lip instead. This balance will help ensure the warm tones enhance your features rather than overwhelming them.  

@christendominique Warmth + smoke + shimmer = fall eye combo 🍂✨ Transition Palette @Dominique Cosmetics try this? #fallmakeup #makeup #makeuptutorial #eyeshadow #makeuphack ♬ original sound – Christen Dominique

Words: Yashna Balwanth 
Photography:  Pexels

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1. Pointed ankle boots   

 A staple in our cool weather capsule is the modest pointed ankle boot. Heeled or flat, these boots are practical, polished, and trusted for any occasion. Go retro with double denim –an oversized denim shirt and straight cut jeans – and don’t forget your turtleneck underneath to add warmth to both your body and your look. 

2. Slouch boots 

 Just like Y2K-fashion and everything 2016, slouch boots are back – and we’re not mad about it. They bring an instant attitude, so have fun with texture when you style them. Throw on a leather (or pleather) jacket with a short (or longer pencil) skirt for a bold city look or lean into their bohemian side with a flowing midi dress and a cosy coat.  

@jet_fashion_official Rich tones. Modern energy. 🤎 The kind of boot that effortlessly pulls every winter look together. Easy to style. Even easier to wear. Slouchy Boot: 499.99 *Also available in black. Shop in-store or online via the link in our bio. #JetFashion #JetGoodForLife #LadiesFashion ♬ original sound – Jet Fashion

3. Riding boots 

This equestrian‑inspired classic remains stylish and chic, adding instant elegance to any outfit. Keep it sleek by pairing black riding boots with black leggings and a puffer jacket, then top it off with oversized black sunglasses for just the right touch of drama. 

 

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4. The cowboy boots 

 Whether you wear it Princess Diana style with straight-cut jeans tucked in and a sweatshirt or take an edgier approach by pairing your boots with a short skirt and an oversized knit, there’s no wrong way to add some yeehaw to your outfit. Cowboy boots kick up instant personality, mixing old school charm with a rebellious streak. Dress them up with a tailored blazer for a high-low mix or keep it casual with this bodycon mesh dress for that effortless boho vibe. 

@abidowns 3 ways to wear cowboy boots – these are my all year round essential shoe tbh. Always best to buy good quality leather if possible because they will last! #cowboybootoutfit #winteroutfitinspo #southernhemispherefashion #durbaninfluencer #durbancontentcreator ♬ original sound – abidowns

Words: Gaynor Siljeur
Photography:

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Pumpkin & parmesan fritters  

Makes 20-25 

Ingredients 

4 cups (about 600g) grated pumpkin
½ cup grated Parmesan
½ tsp ground nutmeg
3 Tbsp self-raising flour
Salt and milled pepper
1½ Tbsp milk
1 egg
Glug olive or canola oil
  

For serving 

Handful sage, fried (or use fresh coriander instead) 
Parmesan shavings
Sweet chilli sauce 

Method  

1. Combine pumpkin, cheese, nutmeg and flour. Season. 
2. Whisk together milk and egg. Stir into pumpkin mixture to combine. 
3. Heat oil over medium heat and shallow-fry 1 heaped tablespoon of the mixture for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden, crispy and cooked through.  
4. Repeat until mixture is done. 
5. Serve scattered with sage and Parmesan, with sweet chilli sauce on the side.  

Recipe & styling: Gail Damon 
Photographs: Zhann Solomons

Roasted barley, beetroot and pumpkin bowl 

Serves 4  

Ingredients  

500g pumpkin, cut into wedges
4 large beetroots, peeled and cut into wedges
2 red onions, quartered
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp each fennel and cumin seeds, crushed (optional)
Salt and milled pepper
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 cups pearl barley
3 cups vegetable stock
Handful each toasted pumpkin seeds and walnuts
Basil and watercress (optional), for serving  

Method 

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 
2. Place pumpkin, beetroot and onions on a baking tray. 
3. Drizzle with oil, then sprinkle with fennel and cumin seeds. Season well.
4. Roast for 40-45 minutes until tender.
5. Heat oil in a pot and sauté onion until soft.
6. Add garlic and fry for another minute. Add barley and stock then boil for 15-18 minutes, stirring regularly until liquid is absorbed, and the barley edges are soft. 
7. Increase oven heat to 220°C.
8. Place barley in a single layer on a baking tray with pumpkin seeds and walnuts.
9. Drizzle with a little oil and roast for 8 – 1 0 minutes or until crispy, stirring after 5 minutes.
10. Spoon barley onto a platter or into bowls and top with warm roasted vegetables.
11. Serve with basil and watercress, if you like. 

Recipe and photographs courtesy of Fresh Living Magazine 

Pumpkin pecan pie  

Serves 6-8 

Ingredients 

1 packet (400g) short crust pastry, defrosted 
Flour, for dusting 
1 packet (500g) pumpkin cubes 
2 Tbsp (30g) butter
2 eggs
1 tub (230g) medium fat cream cheese 
1 cup (200g) brown sugar 
Grating of nutmeg 
1 tsp (5ml) ground cinnamon 
¼ cup (60ml) honey 
1 large packet (150g) pecan halves 
Whipped cream, for serving
Honey, for serving (optional)   

Method 

1. Roll out pastry on a floured work surface to 4mm thick. Line a 25cm tart tin with pastry, cutting away any excess pastry. (See cook’s note.)  
2. Use a fork to prick the base of tart, which will allow steam to escape. 
3. Place a sheet of baking paper over pastry, covering completely, then fill to the top with raw rice or baking beads. Chill. 
4. Preheat oven to 200°C.
5. Steam pumpkin on the stove or in the microwave. Cool slightly. 
6. Blitz pumpkin using a stick blender (or use a masher if you like) until smooth. Stir in butter and set aside to cool. 
7. Whisk together remaining ingredients until well combined, then fold in the pumpkin puree. 
8. Blind bake tart shell for 20 minutes. Remove rice or beads and baking paper. 
9. Pour pumpkin batter into the par-baked tart shell. 
10. Bake for another 25 minutes.
11. Remove, top with pecan nuts and return to the oven for another 5-8 minutes. 
12. Cool for 10 minutes in tin before unmoulding. 
13. Serve tart warm with a dollop of cream and a drizzle of honey, if you like.  

Cook’s note: 

To extend your pastry, line your tart tin and cut the pastry level with the edges by rolling your rolling pin over the tin or cutting with a sharp knife. Then, using your index- or pinkie finger (depending on tin size) press against each fluted indent to extend it over the tin’s edge.  

Recipe & styling: Liezl Vermeulen 
Photography: Zhann Solomons

Also read: 2 Sweet vegan treats to munch on

The post 3 Easy pumpkin recipes for autumn comfort appeared first on TFG Media.

In celebration of International Dance Day (29 April), replace your boring cardio routine with some dance moves and lift not only your heart rate, but your spirits too. Whether it’s on the dance floor or in your living room, most of us know the joy that dancing can bring. But beyond the fun and entertainment, it’s also a serious form of exercise that offers great benefits.  

What the research says

Whether it’s free-form dancing or structured routines, research shows that dance is not only a great form of cardio but comparable to (and in some cases better than) traditional exercise. 

@mad_fit dance workouts have saved my life 🤷🏼‍♀️ #fyp #danceworkout #workout #fitness #fitnesstips #fitnessmotivation #madfit #madfitworkout ♬ Sports car – Tate McRae

A 2024 study by Aston McCullough, reported in the PLOS One journal, found that free-form dancing places participants in the ‘moderate to vigorous’ exercise category, providing you with a cardio workout similar to brisk walking, jogging or cycling. A review published by the US National Institutes of Health found that weekly dance sessions over six weeks or more improve cardiovascular fitness just as effectively as other forms of structured exercise. In some areas, like BMI (body mass index) reduction, dance outperforms conventional workouts. In addition to heart health, dance offers a full-body workout that engages multiple muscle groups at once. Moves that involve twisting, jumping and shifting your weight build strength and endurance and improve balance, coordination and agility. Plus, unlike regular gym routines, dance keeps your body guessing and your mind engaged, making it easier to stay motivated and consistent while keeping the vibes up.  

The mind-body connection

What makes dance unique is its multi-dimensional approach to fitness. Unlike repetitive gym routines, dance challenges your heart, muscles, coordination, memory and brain function simultaneously. Learning steps, remembering sequences and moving in time with music creates a full-body workout while engaging cognitive skills, making it a true mind-body exercise. 

Victoria Angel, a Cape Town-based movement psychotherapist, states that dance is “one of the few forms of movement that speaks to the whole person – body, mind, soul and emotion”.  

She says that while dance absolutely strengthens muscles and cardiovascular health, the deeper impact lies in how it can restore your relationship with your inner self, support your emotional well-being and regulate your nervous system. 

She says that while dance absolutely strengthens muscles and cardiovascular health, the deeper impact lies in how it can restore your relationship with your inner self, support your emotional well-being and regulate your nervous system. “From a psychological perspective, movement offers a direct pathway into the nervous system. It helps regulate stress responses, release tension held in the body and re-establish a sense of safety in the body,” Victoria explains. “When we move with awareness, we are not just exercising – we are listening. The body becomes a place we return to, rather than override, and this alone has profound implications for emotional well-being.”  

How to add dance to your routine

While you may be tempted to fit dance into your routine like a regular gym day, the pressure truly is not as intense. “The key is intention rather than intensity. Dance does not need to be performance-based or structured to be beneficial,” says Victoria. To start with, she advises that you focus on presence, not perfection; let go of what you think dance should look like and start off small. “Even a few minutes of mindful dance movement a few times a week can produce meaningful changes.” 

So whether you’re dancing at home or joining a dance class group in a structured setting, find your own rhythm and embrace the joy of movement. Let the music guide you, feel every beat, and simply enjoy yourself and all the benefits that dancing has to offer.   

Places to explore dance fitness

Five 6 seven 8 Dance Studio (Ferndale, Randburg)

This dance school offers a variety of classes, including Zumba-style sessions, where cardio feels more like a party than a workout.  

The Art of Movement (Emmarentia, Joburg)

Blends expressive dance with fitness-focused movement, improving endurance and cardio feels more like a party than a workout.  

Jamfox Dance Studio (Menlyn, Pretoria)

From hip-hop and contemporary to jazz and K-Pop, Jamfox has something for every fitness level.  

The Hub Dance Studio (Woodstock, Cape Town)

Dance to the beats of amapiano, hip-hop and jazz funk.  

Freedom Dance Studio/FITPOD (Umhlanga, Durban)

A welcoming space offering an easy-to-follow ‘open commercial’ dance style.  

Many dance studios also offer live-stream classes for you to follow in the comfort of your own home, or you can subscribe to dance fitness YouTubers (like The Fitness Marshall). 

Words: Tamia Retief 
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images

Also read: TikTok dance routines that rocked the world 

The post  How to add dance to your fitness routine appeared first on TFG Media.

The International Day of Living Together in Peace (on 16 May) is dedicated to fostering peace, tolerance, inclusion, solidarity and understanding within our communities.  

Building peaceful relationships is an ongoing process that requires patience, empathy and commitment. By integrating these expert-backed techniques, we can create relationships that are not only loving but also resilient – and which can bring out the best in ourselves and those around us.  

Communitcation: The foundation of peace

At the heart of every peaceful relationship lies clear, respectful communication. American psychologist and author Dr John Gottman, known for his research on relationships, emphasises the importance of “soft start-ups – beginning conversations with kindness rather than criticism.” So, instead of saying, “You never listen to me”, try “I feel unheard when we talk. Can we find a way to improve our communication?”  

Listening is equally crucial. According to the Harvard Business Business Review, actively listening – making eye contact, summarising key points and asking clarifying questions – reduces misunderstandings and builds trust.  

@jimmyonrelationships You Dont Need More Communication! #communication #relationshipgoals #datingadvice #marriagegoals ♬ original sound – Jimmy Knowles

Embracing emotional regulation

Relationships thrive when individuals manage their emotions effectively. Neuroscientist Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett, an expert in emotion, explains that our emotions are “not just reactions but constructions of the brain influenced by past experiences”.  

By recognising emotional triggers (in ourselves and others) and responding thoughtfully rather than reactively, we prevent unnecessary conflict. Simple techniques such as deep breathing, pausing before responding, and practising mindfulness can significantly improve emotional regulation.  

@embracingjoynyc Most people think their relationship struggles are about communication… but it’s really about emotional regulation. When you can slow yourself down, name what’s happening inside you, and come back to your partner with clarity instead of chaos—everything changes. Two regulated people don’t equal zero conflict. They equal conflict that brings you closer. Want tools to build this? Link in bio.✨ #f#fypf#foryouf#foryoupagev#viralrelationshipadvice ♬ original sound – EmbracingJoyTherapy❌

Cultivating mutual respect and boundaries

Respect is the glue that holds relationships together. Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries ensures that both individuals feel safe and valued. Relationship therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab highlights that boundaries are not about controlling others but about expressing personal needs. For example, if you need alone time to recharge, clearly communicate it: “I love spending time with you, but I also need solo time to feel my best.” Creating and enforcing boundaries without guilt will foster healthier dynamics and prevents resentment.  

Practising forgiveness and letting go of resentment

Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it determines the longevity of our relationships. Research by the American Psychological Association suggests that forgiveness, when genuine, leads to better mental health and stronger relationships. Holding on to grudges increases stress and damages emotional bonds. Instead, work towards a resolution by acknowledging mistakes, offering sincere apologies, and choosing to move forward rather than dwelling on the past.  

Prioritising quality me and shared activities

In the Digital Age, it’s surprisingly easy to become disconnected despite constant communication tools. A study published in the Yournal of Social and Personal Relationships found that couples and friends who engage in shared activities such as cooking, exercising or travelling together experience higher relationship satisfaction. Prioritising intentional together time, free from digital distractions, strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.  

Fostering a culture of appreciation

Regularly expressing gratitude enhances emotional closeness. Dr Robert Emmons, a leading researcher on gratitude, found that expressing appreciation for others strengthens relationships by reinforcing positive behaviours. Simple gestures, like thanking a partner for their support or help, or acknowledging a friend’s kindness, create a culture of warmth and validation.   

Podcasts for peaceful relationships

• Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel  

Listen in on real couples’ therapy sessions with this renowned relationship therapist.  

@weareavalon.love Psychotherapist Esther Perel on how to turn conflict into connection. #relationship #couples #advice #podcast #podcastclips #jayshetty #estherperel #relationshipproblems ♬ original sound – Avalon | Plant Medicine

• Love, Happiness & Success with Dr Lisa Marie Bobby  

Relationship coaching and personal growth strategies with the CEO of GrowingSelf.com. 

•  Small Things Often by The Gottman Institute  

Short, insightful episodes on small habits that improve relationships.   

• Dear Therapists with Lori Gottlieb and Guy Winch  

Two therapists help real people navigate relationship struggles. 

*Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts. 

Words: Insaaf Abrahams 
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images 

Text courtesy of Club Magazine

The post What it takes to maintain peaceful relationships   appeared first on TFG Media.

Deconstructed breakfast apple crumbles 

Serves 4  

Ingredients 

2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp brown sugar
2 apples, halved
2 Tbsp water
1 Tbsp vanilla vodka
¼ cup oats
¼ cup almond butter
¼ cup + 1 tsp honey
4 Tbsp cream cheese
1 tsp vanilla essence 

Method 

1. Preheat oven to 160°C.
2. Heat the butter and sugar in a pan. Add the apples, cut sides down and fry for 5 minutes over medium heat. 
3. Add the water and vodka and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Mix the oats, almond butter and ¼ cup honey. Spread on a tray and bake for 5 minutes.
5. Mix the cream cheese with 1tsphoney and vanilla essence. 
6. Adda dollop cream cheese onto a plate, top with apples, drizzle with pan juices and sprinkle with oat crumble. 

Recipe & styling: Chiara Turilli
Photography: Samantha Pinto/HMimages.co.za 

Buttermilk fried chicken with apple slaw  

Serves 4  

Ingredients  

For the buttermilk fried chicken  

 8 chicken pieces
4 Tbsp rice vinegar
2 Tbsp each soy sauce and sriracha
4 garlic cloves, grated
2½ cups buttermilk
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp dried mixed herbs
3 tsp origanum
1 tsp mustard powder
1 Tbsp smoked paprika
1 Tbsp garlic powder
1 Tbsp black pepper
2 tsp salt  

For the apple slaw  

 ¼ green cabbage, shredded
½ red onion, sliced
1 green apple, julienned
Handful coriander, chopped
Juice of ½ lime
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
¼ cup honey
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¾ cup olive oil  

Method   

1. For the buttermilk fried chicken, mix together the chicken, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sriracha, garlic and buttermilk. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
2.  Preheat oven to 180°C.
3. Mix all the remaining dry ingredients together and season well.
4. Heat enough oil to deep-fry the chicken in a large pot.
5. Roll each chicken piece in the flour and fry until golden. Arrange on a baking tray and bake for 15 minutes, until cooked.
6. For the apple slaw, combine the ingredients, season to taste and serve with the fried chicken. 

Recipe & styling: Chiara Turilli
Photography: Samantha Pinto // HMimages.co.za 

The post 2 Irresistible apple recipes appeared first on TFG Media.

So… It’s the start of a new week and the team is getting ready for a brainstorming session. They’re fully prepared, with high energy and ideas jotted down. But Tammy, who usually always volunteers to share first, has gone quiet in the last few sessions. She is not attending ‘optional’ meetings and is saying no to projects she used to enjoy. She hasn’t resigned, hasn’t said anything specifically, but mentally she seems, well, uninterested. 

This slow fade has a name: micro-quitting (also known as ‘quiet cracking’). Different to quiet quitting, which is about doing only what must be done to hang on to a job, micro-quitting (which can be a precursor to quiet quitting) is more difficult to spot.  

“Micro-quitting is the gradual, often unnoticed behaviour that shows an employee is emotionally checked out,” says Zulfa George, a talent acquisition specialist with more than a decade’s worth of experience in HR. “It happens in small steps. Employees lose interest, stop collaborating or mentally withdraw while still being physically present.” There’s no dramatic exit or big argument. Instead, it shows up in small ways. “Early signs include putting in less effort, attending meetings less, responding more slowly to messages, losing their sense of curiosity and shifting from proactive to reactive behaviour,” says Zulfa.  

@motivationalgrass #quietquitting #newgeneration #simonsinek #genzthings #genz #job ♬ original sound – Motivational Viral TV – Motivational Grass

Alone, these little changes are easy to excuse. Maybe Tammy is tired or the week has been busy… However, when these behaviours persist, it creates a wider problem. The whole team’s energy drops. Ideas dry up. And office morale quietly suffers.  

Why do employees start pulling back?

In some cases, it’s about self-protection. “Disengagement often starts when people feel stuck, overlooked or exhausted,” Zulfa explains. “Many don’t quit right away because of money, loyalty or hope that things will get better. So they pull back in order to cope.”  

Employees who feel overlooked and unheard or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, micro-managed, are more prone to micro-quitting. Recognition plays a big role as well.  

@ginnyleads 📣 Time to invest in your people! 💼 According to McKinsey, uncaring or uninspiring leaders are one of the top reasons people quit their jobs. People crave being seen, valued, and supported, regardless of age, level, or tenure. Restore engagement and retain top talent by fostering trust through honest and transparent communication. #LeadershipMatters #EmployeeEngagement ♬ original sound – GinnyLeads

“When people don’t feel appreciated or see ways to grow, their motivation disappears quickly,” says Zulfa. “They start to disengage before they decide to leave for good.” 

@robertleebarber When a top performer suddenly seems disengaged or quiet, it can signal that they are checked out mentally or emotionally. This shift often stems from factors like burnout, lack of recognition, or feeling undervalued. It’s crucial for leaders to recognize the signs early and address the underlying issues. Open communication, meaningful feedback, and a supportive environment can help re-engage these individuals, fostering both productivity and morale. A once-vibrant contributor can be revitalized with the right attention. Don’t wait until they’re gone to take action! #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipMatters #TeamDynamics ♬ original sound – Robert Lee Barber

Signs you may be micro-quitting  

1. You used to contribute ideas in meetings, but now you’re silent, bored or distracted.  

2. Emails and team messages are kept short; without the friendly tone they once had.

3. Consistently logging off exactly on time, avoiding voluntary overtime.  

4. Passing up opportunities to take on new projects.  

5. Work that was once thorough is now just ‘good enough’.  

6. You opt out of casual office chats, team lunches or after-work drinks.  

7. You’re calling in sick more frequently, especially around high-stress deadlines. 

How managers can spot and respond  

@barbara.corcoran #QuietQuitting ♬ original sound – Barbara Corcoran

– Look at behaviour: Who is quieter? Who has stopped sharing ideas? Who is there but doesn’t really seem engaged?  

– Think about systems: “Rigid rules, unclear expectations and treating everyone the same can show employees that their needs don’t matter,” warns HR specialist Zulfa George.   

– Genuinely care about your employees: Ask them how they are really doing? What’s draining their energy? What would help them feel engaged again? 

Advice for employees

If reading Tammy’s story resonates with you, pause and reflect. Think about what’s causing it. Is it your workload, management or leadership, lack of growth opportunities or burnout? “Dealing with it early can prevent long term dissatisfaction,” says Zulfa.

When speaking to your manager, it is important to focus on solutions. Say things like, “I want to do my best work, and this is what I need to stay engaged…”  

Other methods include asking for clarity, setting boundaries, seeking development opportunities and reconnecting with your ‘why’ – your purpose and your passion. And if  re-engaging isn’t possible, “protecting your energy while planning your next steps is equally valid,” Zulfa adds.   

Words: Shanaaz Petersen 
Photography: Shutterstock 

Also read: How to spot a toxic work environment 

The post 7 Signs you may be micro-quitting   appeared first on TFG Media.

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That sense of calm isn’t accidental; it’s your brain responding to the presence of space and order. Yet many of us live life surrounded by chaos: cupboards that are overflowing, kitchen counters buried under appliances, and that chair in your bedroom that’s become a pile of laundry.  

The voice in the back of your mind says you’ll get to it eventually, not realising that the clutter around you might be quietly draining your energy every day.  

The hidden weight of clutter

Neuroscientists have discovered that clutter competes for our attention in the same way a crying baby or ringing phone does. Surrounded by disorganised spaces, our brains work tirelessly to process all the visual stimuli, leaving less capacity for the tasks that really matter. Research at Princeton University’s Neuroscience Institute found that physical clutter in your environment directly competes with your ability to focus and process information. The impact goes beyond distraction. Messy environments trigger cortisol, the stress hormone, keeping us in a low-level state of ‘fight-or-flight’. That irritated panic when you can’t find your keys, the nuisance of searching through drawers, and the constant reminder of unfinished tasks, all accumulate.  

@neat.caroline Why decluttering will change your life! #clutter #declutter #fengshui #konmari #fyp ♬ original sound – Neat Caroline

Quick wins for immediate effect

You don’t need to ‘Marie Kondo’ your entire house in a weekend. Professional organisers recommend starting with what they call ‘high-impact zones’: the spaces you see first thing in the morning and last thing at night.  

Clear your bedside table and that overflowing bathroom shelf or simply make your bed every morning. These small actions create immediate visual calm and set a positive tone for your day. 

Try the ‘one-touch rule’: manage things as you pick them up instead of moving them around. Designate a home for everyday items, like keys, sunglasses and phone chargers, so they’re not constantly creating visual noise.

Use wall-mounted shelves and hooks for vertical storage in smaller spaces to maintain clear floors and surfaces.  

Building sustainable habits

The secret to maintaining an organised space isn’t perfection – it’s systems. Adopt the ‘one in, one out’ principle: when you buy something new, let something old go. Remember, too, that having fewer items means there is less to maintain, clean and worry about.  

Set a timer for 15 minutes each evening for a quick reset, returning items to their designated spots. This small investment prevents those weekend marathons of ‘catch-up cleaning’.

For homes with limited storage, be strategic: under-bed storage containers, ottoman stools that have built-in storage and slim-profile shelving can utilise space without sacrificing style.

@minutewithzenaSet the timer and GO! 15 Minutes is all it takes for you to change up and refresh your space. It’s amazing what our environment can do for our mind.♬ original sound – Minute With Zena

Designing calm

Once you’ve decluttered, enhance your home’s atmosphere with intentional design choices. Natural light and excellent airflow are important; open the curtains and let sunshine in. Include soft, neutral tones that soothe rather than stimulate. Plants bring life and beauty to a home without cluttering and improve the air quality.  

Create distinct zones even in open-plan spaces: a reading nook with good lighting, a workspace separate from relaxation areas. The goal is spaces that serve clear purposes, reducing mental confusion about where to focus.  

Your space, your well-being

Decluttering isn’t about achieving Pinterest-perfect minimalism or judging yourself for accumulating possessions. It’s about creating an environment that supports rather than sabotages your mental health.  

When you clear your space, you’re making room not just physically but emotionally – for calm, creativity and the energy to focus on what matters. Start small, be consistent, and watch how transforming your surroundings transforms your state of mind.   

Words: Leah Dennis 
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images 

Also read: 3 areas to clean before your holiday guests arrive

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