Category: Everyday wins

3 Ways to Get Free Starbucks Gift Cards for Shopping Sprees

Posted on by Kick Writers

Let’s be honest—between coffee dates, errands, and weekend plans, your calendar is probably as packed as mine. I never turn down a chance to catch up with friends, but finding time to shop can be tricky. Lately, I’ve resorted to early mornings and late-night Target runs just to get everything done.

Thankfully, one thing gets me through: coffee. And what’s even better than a Starbucks latte? Scoring free gift cards to pay for it.

If you’re looking to sip while you shop, here are three easy ways to earn Starbucks gift cards—no coupon clipping required.

1. Use the Starbucks® Rewards Program

This one’s a no-brainer for regular Starbucks visitors. Download the Starbucks app and sign up for the free Rewards program. Every dollar you spend earns you two stars. Once you hit 300 stars, you’ll unlock Gold Status, with freebies like handcrafted drinks, food, and more.

Tip: Load money onto your Starbucks card in the app before you order. That way, you’ll earn stars on every purchase—and rack up rewards faster.

2. Apply for the Starbucks® Rewards Visa Card

Want to take those stars even further? The Starbucks Rewards Visa Card lets you earn stars not only at Starbucks, but also on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and even online shopping.

You’ll collect points wherever you swipe—and those points convert to stars in your account. Translation: every coffee run (and grocery haul) brings you closer to your next free drink.

3. Earn Starbucks Gift Cards with Shopkick

Shopkick is my favorite rewards app, hands down. It’s free, easy to use, and turns everyday errands into a fun scavenger hunt for points—called kicks.

You can earn kicks by:

  • Walking into stores

  • Scanning barcodes (no purchase needed!)

  • Uploading receipts

  • Shopping online

  • Watching videos and completing app-based challenges

Once you rack up enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to Starbucks (or dozens of other popular retailers like Target and Amazon). You can even stack Shopkick with your Starbucks Rewards or Visa Card for extra earning power.

Bonus: Shopkick makes errands way more fun—and it’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a coffee after a successful scan session.

Fuel Your Shopping (and Your Coffee Habit)

Between loyalty stars, bonus points, and app rewards, earning Starbucks gift cards is easier than ever. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, these tips can help you sip and save at the same time.

Ready to start earning?
Download Shopkick today and join thousands of savvy shoppers turning their everyday trips into rewards.

Double Rewards: Save More at Walmart with Shopkick App

Posted on by Kick Writers

Over the years, I’ve learned a few key shopping lessons. First: missing a sale isn’t the end of the world — there’s always another one. Second: share your tips with friends, because good advice has a way of coming back around. And third? Some savings are good, but stacked savings are even better.

That’s where shopping apps come in. I’ve found that combining store-specific apps with rewards apps like Shopkick is one of the easiest ways to save more without changing how you shop. If Walmart is one of your go-to stores, here’s exactly how to stack rewards and make your budget go further.

The Power of Pairing Shopping Apps

Want to level up your savings strategy? Start by using two types of apps together:

  • Store apps like the Walmart app

  • Rewards apps like Shopkick that work across multiple retailers

Using both gives you double the benefits: better prices and more rewards — all from your regular shopping trips.

Step 1: Use the Walmart App for Smarter Shopping

Although Walmart’s Savings Catcher feature has been retired, the app is still packed with helpful tools. With the Walmart app, you can:

  • Check product prices

  • Track past purchases

  • Earn Walmart Rewards (on eligible items)

  • Schedule pickups or deliveries

It’s a solid way to streamline your shopping experience and spot deals fast.

Step 2: Stack Extra Rewards with Shopkick

Here’s where things get fun. Shopkick is a free shopping rewards app that gives you kicks (points) for actions you’re already doing — both in-store and online. Here’s how to earn kicks at Walmart:

  • Walk into the store

  • Scan featured item barcodes

  • Upload your Walmart receipt

  • Shop through the app (for online purchases)

You don’t have to buy anything to start earning — even scanning products adds up. Once you’ve earned enough kicks, you can trade them for free Walmart gift cards (or others, like Target, Amazon, and Starbucks).

Why I Always Use Both

Pairing the Walmart app with Shopkick is a no-brainer. The Walmart app helps me shop smarter, while Shopkick turns those shopping trips into rewards. Even better? Shopkick also works at places like Sam’s Club, Target, CVS, and more — so the savings don’t stop at Walmart.

My Pro Tip: Don’t Shop Without It

Before your next trip, download Shopkick and open it when you walk into Walmart. It only takes a second to start earning rewards, and those kicks add up fast.

Get Started and Save More

Maximize your Walmart shopping experience with a one-two punch of smart planning and rewarding habits. Download the Shopkick app today, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more savings tips, limited-time offers, and real user wins.

Reward Sites That Actually Work

Posted on by Kick Writers

One of my girlfriends, Janette, is the best at giving it to you straight. She’s proudly no-nonsense, all honesty, and the first to tell you what you need to hear — even if you don’t want to hear it. When another one of our girlfriends asked us at brunch for tips on making a little extra money, Janette and I jumped in. “Honestly?” I said. “I use reward apps. And yes — these reward sites actually work.”

I started walking them through my favorites. Some reward you for shopping. Some for scanning items in-store. Others for giving your opinion through surveys. But the best part? All of them are free and totally legit. And you better believe I waited to see if my picks passed the ultimate barometer: The Janette Test. That’s right. Every recommendation here is officially Janette-approved.

The Good: For Sharing Your Opinion

Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is a great entry-level rewards site. You take surveys and earn points based on your demographic profile. Most surveys pay between 20–200 points, and once you hit 1,000 points (about $10), you can cash out via PayPal or gift cards.

You’re not going to get rich, and surveys can dry up—but if you enjoy giving feedback on brands and have a few minutes to spare, it’s a no-brainer.

Janette Test Says: “Not bad. I could probably stick with it for a bit, but I’d forget about it once the surveys slow down. Still, it’s solid.”

Use it if: You like expressing your opinion and don’t mind a little waiting between opportunities.

The Better: For Background Entertainment

InboxDollars

InboxDollars expands beyond surveys into watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games. You earn real cash (not gift cards), but you’ll need at least $30 to cash out.

That said, if you’re already scrolling or watching random clips during downtime, why not make a little money doing it?

Janette Test Says: “The payout threshold is kind of high, but I love that you can earn while multitasking. I’d put this one above the first.”

Use it if: You enjoy passive rewards while chilling on the couch.

The Best: For Everyday Shopping

Shopkick

This is the one that passed the Janette Test with flying colors. Shopkick is a shopping rewards app that turns your regular store runs into a fun, rewarding experience. You earn points (called “kicks”) for walking into stores, scanning product barcodes, and making purchases. You can even earn kicks online by watching videos or browsing offers.

Once you’ve racked up enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to stores like Target, Walmart, Ulta Beauty, and more.

Why Janette loved it: No extra effort. No surveys to complete or videos to watch. You just shop like you normally would and earn along the way.

Janette Test Says: “Now this is something I’d actually use. It makes errands more fun, and it doesn’t feel like work. Obsessed.”

Use it if: You love the idea of a real-life shopping scavenger hunt and want to earn rewards without changing your routine.

Final Thoughts

Let’s face it—there are a lot of sketchy reward apps out there. But these three? They actually work. And more importantly, they passed the Janette Test.

Of all the reward sites I’ve tried, Shopkick is the one I keep coming back to. It’s the easiest to use, the most fun, and the one that fits seamlessly into my day. Whether you’re running errands, picking up groceries, or just window shopping, you’ll rack up rewards in no time.

Download Shopkick today and join a community of smart shoppers who’ve already discovered the fun in earning rewards just for living their life. Trust me—and Janette—you won’t regret it.

P.S. If you love shopping content and a little inspo on the side, follow Shopkick on Facebook and Instagram for daily tips and deals.

Coupon Apps for Groceries You’d Be Crazy Not to Download

Posted on by Kick Writers

There’s something nostalgic about finding a pack of paper coupons in the mail. It brings me back to my childhood—when Sundays meant flipping through the newspaper with my mom, clipping deals for our weekly grocery run. But let’s be honest, most of us don’t have the time (or printer ink) for that anymore.

Luckily, saving money has gone digital. Coupon apps for groceries have taken the old-school idea of clipping deals and given it a modern twist. No scissors, no stacks of paper—just a smartphone and a few minutes of your time.

Surprisingly, not everyone has caught on. So today, I want to share the grocery savings apps I think you’d be crazy not to download—especially my personal favorite: Shopkick.

The All-in-One Grocery App: Shopkick

Of all the apps out there, Shopkick is my go-to—and not just for groceries. It’s a shopping rewards app that lets you earn points (called “kicks”) for the things you already do while shopping: walking into stores, scanning items, submitting receipts, and making purchases. You can even earn from home by watching videos or shopping online through the app.

What makes it fun is that it turns your grocery trip into a game. You get kicks just for walking in the door—like a little high-five for showing up. Then you can scan featured products for extra kicks, and finally earn even more by submitting your receipt after you buy.

Rack up enough kicks and you can redeem them for free gift cards to places you probably already shop: Walmart, Target, Amazon, Ulta, Starbucks, and more.

For me, it’s been a total game-changer. Grocery shopping is a must—but now it’s also a way to earn free rewards. And because Shopkick works in so many stores, I can maximize my savings just by keeping the app open while I run errands.

Digital Coupons Made Easy

While Shopkick is my top pick, there are a couple of other still-active tools that can pair well with it:

Coupons.com

This one’s been around for a while, but it’s still kicking—just in a much more modern form. You can digitally clip grocery coupons and link them to your store loyalty card, or scan your receipt after checkout to claim cashback. No printing necessary (thankfully!).

Ibotta

While it’s more rebate-focused than coupon-based, Ibotta is another legit app that rewards you for buying groceries. You select offers in advance, then submit your receipt to earn cashback. Just note: it works best when you’re planning a specific shopping list, so it’s not quite as flexible as Shopkick’s scan-and-go model.

Why Shopkick Stands Out

Here’s why Shopkick is still my favorite of the bunch:

  • It rewards you just for being in the store—no purchase needed

  • You can earn points from both in-store and online shopping

  • It offers flexibility in how you earn and where you redeem

  • It makes saving fun (seriously—my kids think it’s a treasure hunt)

Plus, you can stack Shopkick with other apps like Ibotta or Coupons.com to double up on rewards when you make purchases. It’s the best of both worlds: kicks, cashback, and savings—all for doing something you were going to do anyway.

Ready to make your grocery shopping more rewarding? Download the Shopkick app for free and start earning kicks today. Whether you’re picking up dinner or stocking the pantry, Shopkick makes every trip to the store a little more fun—and a lot more rewarding.

How to Earn Free Gift Cards Without Taking Surveys

Posted on by Kick Writers

We all love getting rewarded — but let’s be honest, not everyone has time (or patience) to fill out endless surveys. The good news? You don’t have to! If you’re looking for smarter, faster ways to earn free gift cards without the hassle, we’ve rounded up five options that actually work. From apps that reward your everyday shopping to giveaway tricks and mobile games, these survey-free strategies make earning fun and doable.

Let’s dive into our top picks — starting with the one that tops our list.

1. Shop and Earn with Shopkick

Out of all the options out there, Shopkick is hands down one of the easiest and most fun ways to earn free gift cards—no surveys, no strings attached.

How it works:
Shopkick is a free mobile app that rewards you with points (called “kicks”) for actions you already do when shopping. Whether you’re walking into a store, scanning product barcodes, submitting receipts, or linking your account for online purchases, you’ll rack up kicks with minimal effort. Those kicks can then be redeemed for gift cards to stores like Target, Walmart, Ulta Beauty, and many more.

Why it’s great:
You don’t need to change your routine. Just shop as usual, open the app, and start collecting kicks. It turns errands into a real-life scavenger hunt—and makes saving feel like a game.

Bonus tip:
Want to earn even more? Invite friends, check for featured offers, and keep your push notifications on for surprise kick drops.

2. Play Games That Pay

Gaming can be more than just a hobby — it can be a reward strategy. Several apps reward you for simply spending time playing games, making this a fun and relaxing way to score free gift cards.

Try this:
Look for platforms like Mistplay or Swagbucks, which reward gameplay with points you can cash out for gift cards. While some apps may also offer surveys, the gaming route is optional — and often more fun.

3. Enter Online Giveaways

Giveaways are everywhere these days, especially on blogs, brand websites, and Instagram pages. Many businesses run gift card giveaways as a way to promote products and engage fans.

Where to find them:
Follow your favorite brands on social media, subscribe to their email lists, and keep an eye on platforms like Giveaway Monkey or Sweepstakes Fanatics. You’d be surprised how often you’ll stumble into easy entries with real rewards.

Pro tip:
Set aside 5–10 minutes a week to enter a few giveaways. The odds add up quickly when you stay consistent.

4. Use Credit Card Rewards Wisely

If you’re a responsible credit card user, this one’s for you. Many credit cards offer points or cashback that can be converted into gift cards.

What to look for:
Choose cards that reward everyday spending (like groceries or gas) and let you redeem points for gift cards with flexible terms. Just be sure to pay your balance in full to avoid interest.

Popular options:
Check with your current bank or explore review sites like NerdWallet or The Points Guy to compare cards that offer gift card rewards.

5. Follow Brands on Social for Bonus Perks

Scrolling your feed? Put it to good use! Many brands offer surprise perks to loyal followers, from discount codes to digital gift card giveaways.

Start here:
Follow your favorite stores on Instagram and Facebook (and sign up for emails, too). Small businesses especially love to reward their local fans with exclusive promotions and gift card drawings.

Final Thoughts

If surveys aren’t your thing, don’t worry — you’ve got options. Whether you prefer gaming, shopping, or simply following your favorite stores online, there are plenty of ways to earn free gift cards that fit into your life seamlessly.

Of course, our favorite remains Shopkick. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it rewards the shopping you’re already doing. Download the Shopkick app today and start turning everyday errands into gift card earnings — no surveys required.

5 Easy and Fun Crafts for Kids (No Screens Required!)

Posted on by Kick Writers

Rainy Saturday? School break boredom? Or maybe just a “no screens” kind of day? Whatever the reason, having a few fun and easy crafts for kids in your back pocket can turn any afternoon around. These five hands-on activities are simple, budget-friendly, and sure to bring out everyone’s creative side.

Let’s dive into the fun!

1. Homemade Play Dough

Why buy Play Dough when you can whip up a batch at home? With just flour, salt, water, and a bit of food coloring or paint, you’ll have a soft, squishy dough that’s perfect for tiny hands. Kids love helping with the mixing—and you’ll love how affordable it is.

Pro Tip: Check out Sea Lemon’s DIY recipe on YouTube for a quick tutorial.

2. Shaving Cream Marble Art

This one is messy in the best way. Just spread shaving cream in a shallow tray, drop in food coloring, swirl with a toothpick, and gently press a piece of paper on top. Peel back to reveal a swirling, marble masterpiece!

Want to try it? Follow this guide from Alice & Lois for step-by-step instructions.

3. Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets never go out of style. With embroidery thread and a few simple knots, kids can create colorful accessories to gift or trade. It’s a great craft for groups or solo time—and it teaches patience and focus.

Not sure where to start? Try DIY Projects for Teens.

4. Cool Whip Bath Paint

For a creative (and edible!) bath time activity, mix Cool Whip with a few drops of food coloring. Let your little ones “paint” the tub, the tiles—or even themselves. It’s safe, easy to clean, and a total hit with toddlers. Inspired by Busy Toddler, this idea makes bath time a blast.

5. Classic Coloring Time

Sometimes the easiest activities are the most relaxing. Coloring is perfect for quiet time, and printable coloring pages make it fresh every time. Search online for free printables, grab crayons or markers, and let the imagination flow.

Hang finished masterpieces on the fridge or gift them to loved ones as homemade cards.

Save These Ideas for Anytime Fun

These easy crafts for kids are great for rainy days, summer afternoons, or whenever you need some screen-free fun. Try one — or all five — and tag @Shopkick on Instagram or Facebook to show off your creations!

And don’t forget: If you’re stocking up on supplies, open the Shopkick app while you shop. You can earn kicks at stores like Target, Walmart, and CVS, then redeem them for free gift cards — perfect for your next craft day!

How to Order from the Starbucks Secret Menu Like a Pro

Posted on by Kick Writers

Not all off-menu drinks will please your taste buds — but some are surprisingly delicious. Once you learn the ins and outs of the Starbucks secret menu, don’t be surprised if your usual Iced Caramel Macchiato gets benched. A little switch-up never hurt anyone!

What Is the Starbucks Secret Menu?

If you’ve never heard of the Starbucks secret menu, welcome to the club — you’re officially in the know. These are creative, custom drinks dreamed up by customers and baristas over the years, and they’ve taken on a serious cult following. Some of the most popular include:

  • Banana Split Frappuccino

  • Pink Drink (plus the Purple Drink!)

  • Cotton Candy Frappuccino

  • Grasshopper Frappuccino

  • Raspberry Caramel Macchiato

  • Red Velvet Frappuccino

They’re not listed on the official menu, but if you know the recipe, you can still order them.

How to Order a Secret Menu Drink

Let’s say you want to try the famous Pink Drink — a refreshing mix of fruity flavors and coconut milk. Here’s the trick: most baristas won’t recognize secret menu names. Instead, treat it like a custom drink and spell out the ingredients clearly.

How to order the Pink Drink:

  1. Pick your size

  2. Order a Strawberry Açaí Refresher

  3. Ask to replace the water with coconut milk

  4. Add freeze-dried strawberries for a sweet finish

It’s that easy. And if you forget how to order your favorites, you can find the steps on secret menu apps or fan websites.

Bonus Tip: Earn Free Starbucks Gift Cards While You Sip

Love trying new drinks? Make your Starbucks habit even sweeter with Shopkick. It’s a free rewards app that lets you earn gift cards (including Starbucks!) just by doing things you already do:

  • Walk into stores

  • Scan product barcodes

  • Upload receipts

  • Shop online

  • Watch short videos

  • Refer friends

The points you earn (called kicks) can be redeemed for Starbucks gift cards — and yes, you can use them to order secret menu drinks!

Pro tip: Pay with a Shopkick gift card and still earn Stars in the Starbucks Rewards program. Double the perks, double the fun.

Your Order, Upgraded

Now that you’ve cracked the code, go ahead — order like a Starbucks insider. Whether it’s the Cotton Candy Frappuccino or your own secret blend, don’t be afraid to try something new and share your favorite hacks.

Lavender Lemonade: A Natural Headache Remedy

Posted on by Kick Writers

Headaches can hit for all kinds of reasons — stress, dehydration, too little sleep, or just a hectic schedule. And while over-the-counter meds like Tylenol may bring temporary relief, they’re not always ideal for regular use.

That’s why many people turn to natural remedies like lavender lemonade for headache relief.

Why Lavender Helps with Headaches

Lavender isn’t just a relaxing scent — it’s a plant with powerful calming properties. Research shows that lavender can reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and migraines. In addition, combining it with lemon (a natural detoxifier) and water (for hydration) creates a soothing drink that supports wellness.

Lavender Lemonade Headache Relief Recipe

This lavender lemonade is simple to make and refreshingly effective. Whether you’re managing occasional tension headache or just looking to unwind, it’s worth a try.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups water (divided)

  • ⅛ cup turbinado sugar

  • 2 mint leaves

  • ⅔ teaspoon dried culinary lavender flowers

  • 2 teaspoons honey

  • Juice of 2 lemons

  • Ice, lemon slices, and extra mint for garnish

Instructions:

  1. To begin, heat 2 cups of water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Next, stir in the turbinado sugar until it fully dissolves, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  3. After that, add the mint leaves, lavender flowers, and honey.
  4. Reduce the heat and allow everything to simmer for about 15 minutes so the flavors can steep.
  5. Meanwhile, juice your lemons and strain out the seeds and pulp.
  6. In a separate pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice with the remaining 2 cups of cold water.
  7. Once the lavender mixture is ready, strain it into the pitcher with the lemon water.
  8. Finally, add ice, garnish with lemon slices and mint, and enjoy!

Naturally Soothe Your Headaches

If you’re looking for a refreshing and natural way to recharge, this lavender lemonade for headache relief is a great place to start. It’s hydrating, calming, and packed with feel-good ingredients — perfect for sipping when your head needs a break.

P.S. Shopping for ingredients? Open the Shopkick app before you go — you might find grocery items that earn you kicks while you shop!

8 Simple Self-Care Habits That Actually Make a Difference

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Open up any media platform and you’ll likely see messages about intermittent fasting, intense workouts, and pricey wellness products. However, your self-care journey doesn’t need to be expensive — or overwhelming.

In fact, the small things often make the biggest difference. These are the changes that stick and lead to real benefits over time. So, if you’re looking for sustainable ways to feel more energized and balanced, start with these simple self-care habits.

1. Hydrate First

Yes, coffee is tempting — but start your day with water. Hydration supports energy, digestion, and focus. To make it easier, use a fun tumbler or a water-tracking app like HydroCoach. That way, you’ll build the habit without overthinking it.

2. Be a Morning Person… Sometimes

You don’t need to wake up at 5 a.m. to have a mindful morning. Even a few minutes of quiet coffee, a light stretch, or a short walk can reset your mindset. As a result, you’ll feel more grounded heading into the day.

3. Doodle or Color

Let your creativity out — no pressure, just play. Doodling reduces stress and anxiety, according to research. If drawing isn’t your thing, grab an adult coloring book and give your brain a break.

4. Stretch It Out

Especially if you sit at a desk for long hours, stretching throughout the day is essential. A quick stretch improves circulation, resets your posture, and can even help you sleep better. Try setting a timer to remind yourself to move.

5. Eat a Nourishing Meal

Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. For example, meal kits like HelloFresh can make healthy meals easier and faster to prepare. In addition, they reduce decision fatigue and grocery waste.

6. Sit on the Floor

Change your position, change your posture. Sitting on the floor encourages body awareness and activates muscles you don’t use in a chair. Try kneeling, squatting, or stretching your legs while watching TV or reading.

7. Unplug Regularly

Scrolling is easy — but disconnecting is powerful. Instead of more screen time, take a walk, read a chapter, or sit outside and breathe. Even ten minutes offline can improve your focus and mood.

8. Treat Yourself — Your Way

Self-care isn’t all green juice and journaling. Sometimes, it’s a nap. Other times, it’s saying yes to dessert or buying something that sparks joy. Whatever brings you happiness, make space for it.

Self-Care Should Fit Your Life

At the end of the day, simple self-care habits are most effective when they reflect your real needs. Don’t let social media trends define what wellness means. Instead, listen to your body, start small, and do what works for you.

P.S. Need to pick up wellness supplies? Open the Shopkick app to see which items earn kicks — a small bonus that makes everyday shopping feel a little more rewarding.

4 Easy Productivity Tips to Refresh Your Routine This Season

Posted on by Kick Writers

Do you ever feel the urge to reset when a new season rolls around? Same here. Whether it’s swapping in fresh recipes or reorganizing your space, that seasonal shift often brings a wave of motivation.

But instead of overhauling everything, let’s focus on one area: productivity.

Because one of the best feelings is ending your day knowing you spent your time well. Maybe that means crossing off your to-do list, sneaking in a workout, or enjoying family time. No matter how you define it, that “A+ day” feeling is worth chasing — and with a few tweaks, it can become your new normal.

Here are four easy productivity tips to help you get started.

1. Focus on the Small Picture

Big-picture goals can feel exciting — and overwhelming. That’s why it helps to break them into bite-sized wins.

Want to organize your closet? Don’t aim to do it all at once. Start by sorting just your t-shirts. Then group seasonal items. Those mini wins build momentum and help you make real progress one step at a time.

2. Set Three Daily Goals

Long to-do lists can be draining. Instead, focus on three key priorities for the day. For example:

✔ Go for a walk
✔ Submit a project
✔ Attend a soccer game

If you hit those three? Success. Everything else is a bonus. This approach helps reduce stress and increases your chances of actually feeling accomplished.

3. Create Screen-Free Boundaries

We all spend more time on screens than we’d like. Rather than going cold turkey, try these simple boundaries:

  • Charge your phone outside your workspace

  • Use app timers to limit distractions

  • Create “no phone” zones, like the dinner table or bedroom

Cutting screen time just a bit can lead to clearer focus and more meaningful moments.

4. Block Your Time

Structure your day into focus blocks. Group similar tasks together so you can give each one your full attention:

  • Morning: family time, morning walk

  • Mid-morning: reply to emails

  • Midday: deep work or a creative project

  • Afternoon: errands or admin tasks

Time-blocking prevents multitasking and adds calm structure to your day.

Bonus Tip: Reward Your Wins with Shopkick

Want to turn those productive errands into free rewards? Download the Shopkick app, where you can earn kicks (aka points) just for walking into stores, scanning items, uploading receipts, or shopping online. Then trade those kicks in for gift cards to your favorite stores.

It’s an easy way to stay productive — and make it more rewarding, too.

Your Seasonal Reset Starts Now

Remember: productivity doesn’t mean doing more. It means doing what matters, with intention. Start small, stay consistent, and define your version of a great day.

Have a productivity tip that works wonders for you? Share it with us on Facebook or Instagram — we’d love to hear it!

5 Winter Plants That Thrive in Cold Weather

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Just because summer has ended doesn’t mean your garden has to! Plenty of beautiful, hardy plants flourish in the colder months — making winter gardening a rewarding (and surprisingly low-maintenance) hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, these five winter gardening plants are perfect for adding a little life to your cold-weather landscape.

1.  Coneflower

First, meet the coneflower — a perennial that can bloom even in winter, as long as you care for it properly after it goes dormant in the fall. With a rainbow of colors to choose from, you can plant a clean monochrome garden or make a bold statement with a multicolored mosaic.

2. Catmint

Next up, catmint! This vibrant pink plant is surprisingly winter-hardy — but it does require a bit of patience. Catmint needs a full year of sunlight and watering to establish itself. After that, it thrives on its own through the darker, drier months and asks for very little in return.

3. Winterberry

As the name suggests, winterberry was made for the season. Its bright red berries pop after the plant drops its autumn leaves, giving your garden a fresh burst of color when everything else fades. In addition, you can clip its branches for winter arrangements or festive wreaths.

4. Winter Pansies

These slow growers are absolutely worth the wait. With the right care, winter pansies can bloom for up to 5–7 months — even in freezing temperatures. If you want to brighten up gray days, this cheerful plant delivers with vibrant color and hardiness.

5. Lily-of-the-Valley

Last but not least, Lily-of-the-Valley is a winter classic. Delicate and timeless, this plant thrives in cold climates and loves the shade. Native to the Northern Hemisphere, it brings dainty blooms to your garden when you give it partial sun or full shade.

Ready to Start Your Winter Garden?

All in all, winter gardening plants are easier to care for than you might expect. So, if you’re craving a connection to nature this season, try planting a few of these hardy beauties. They’ll reward you with vibrant color, texture, and charm — no matter how chilly it gets.

P.S. Stocking up on supplies? Download the Shopkick app to earn kicks (aka rewards) while you shop for gardening tools, décor, and more!

Date night outfit ideas on a dime!

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As a mom of three boys, date nights with my husband are rare and cherished. But when the stars align and we get a night out, the first question that pops into my head is: “What am I going to wear?!” 

 

Between business casual workwear and athletic gear for evening sports events, my closet isn’t exactly stocked with designer dresses. And let’s be honest — my budget doesn’t allow for splurges on Jimmy Choos or a brand-new little black dress. So what’s a girl to do? 

 

Here are my favorite budget-friendly tips for pulling together a fabulous date night look without breaking the bank. 

 

1. Get Inspired on Pinterest 

A few minutes scrolling Pinterest can work wonders. I often find outfit inspiration that helps me reimagine pieces I already own. It’s amazing what you can create with a little creativity and a fresh perspective — sometimes I even rediscover hidden gems buried in my closet! 

 

2. Swap with Friends 

Sharing wardrobes with a friend or sister is a game-changer. Even if you’re not the same size, accessories and tops can be mixed and matched. It’s a fun way to double your outfit options without spending a dime. 

 

3. Shop Secondhand 

Thrift stores, garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are treasure troves for stylish, gently used clothing. You can find amazing pieces for a fraction of the cost — and sometimes even score designer items! 

 

4. Remix Old Favorites 

Let’s be real — your partner probably doesn’t remember what you wore last date night. So why not recycle an outfit with a twist? Add a new cardigan, swap out shoes, or throw on a scarf or belt to give it a fresh feel. 

 

Go-To Outfit Ideas 

Now that you’ve got some styling strategies, here are a few outfit combos I love using pieces I already own: 

 

Jeans + Sexy Top

Pair your favorite denim —skinny, boyfriend, or colored— with a sparkly or sleek top. My go-to? Dark grey skinnies and a black shimmer blouse. Finish with heels or flats, depending on the vibe. 
Pro tip: Shop for affordable finds at Target or Walmart — and earn free gift cards with Shopkick while you’re at it! 

 

Monochrome + Jacket 

All-black or all-gray outfits are chic and slimming. Add a denim jacket for a casual look or a blazer for sophistication. Feeling bold? Try a leather jacket and a colorful scarf for extra flair. 

 

Show a Little Skin 

Date night is the perfect excuse to wear something a little flirty. Off-the-shoulder tops, open backs, or shorter skirts can add just the right touch of glam. Save these styles for special nights — not the PTA meeting! 

 

Confidence Is Key 

No matter what you wear, the most important thing is how you feel in it. The sexiest outfit is one that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and fabulous. 

 

Want more style tips or ways to earn rewards while shopping? Follow us @shopkick and share your favorite date night looks!