Maintaining positivity, balance, and mental health

Maintaining positivity, balance, and mental health is paramount for overall well-being.

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Here are some tips that might help:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness to stay present and manage stress. Meditation can help calm the mind and improve mental clarity.

Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep. Physical health strongly influences mental well-being.

Positive Thinking: Focus on gratitude, positive affirmations, and solutions rather than dwelling on problems.

Setting Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and establish healthy boundaries to prevent burnout.

Social Connections: Cultivate relationships with supportive friends and family. Social interaction is crucial for mental health.

Seeking Help When Needed: Do not hesitate to seek professional help or therapy when facing challenges. It’s a sign of strength to ask for support.

Time Management: Organize your time effectively, prioritize tasks, and allocate time for relaxation and hobbies.

Mindset Shifts: Challenge negative thoughts and practice self-compassion. Accept that setbacks are a part of life, and learning from them is valuable.

Engage in Hobbies: Pursue activities that bring joy and relaxation. Engaging in hobbies can be therapeutic.

Limit Stressors: Identify stress triggers and find healthy ways to manage or reduce them.

Remember, it’s essential to find a balance that works for you personally. What works for someone else might not work the same way for you, so it’s okay to explore and adapt these strategies to fit your needs.

Finding peace within oneself often involves self-reflection and intentional practices. Here are some ways to cultivate inner peace:

Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices help to quiet the mind, focus on the present moment, and reduce anxiety. They allow you to observe thoughts and emotions without judgment.

Gratitude and Positivity: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude. Focus on the positive aspects of life, no matter how small, to shift your perspective.

Self-Acceptance and Compassion: Embrace yourself, flaws and all. Practice self-compassion and treat yourself with kindness, just as you would a friend.

Spend Time in Nature: Being in natural surroundings can be incredibly calming and grounding. Take walks, sit by a river, or simply spend time in a park.

Mindful Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation can alleviate stress and promote calmness.

Letting go of Control: Accept that there are things beyond your control. Focus on what you can influence and let go of what you cannot change.

Healthy Boundaries: Establishing boundaries in relationships and life commitments helps reduce stress and fosters a sense of control over your own life.

Journals and Self-Reflection: Writing down thoughts, feelings, and experiences can help process emotions and gain clarity.

Engage in Activities You Love: Doing things that bring you joy and fulfillment nurtures a sense of contentment and peace.

Seeking Guidance: Often-times, finding inner peace might benefit from guidance or support. Therapists, counselors, or spiritual leaders can provide valuable insights and techniques.

Is there a simple way to peace in your life?

Finding peace in life can indeed be simplified by focusing on a few fundamental principles:

Simplify Your Life: Reduce unnecessary complexities. De-clutter your physical space, commitments, and even your mind. Simplifying allows you to focus on what truly matters to you.

Practice Acceptance: Embrace the present moment and accept things as they are, rather than resisting or fighting against them. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t work towards positive change, but accepting the present helps reduce unnecessary suffering caused by resistance.

Let Go of Attachments: Release attachments to outcomes, possessions, or expectations. Detaching from specific outcomes can alleviate stress and create mental freedom.

Live Mindfully: Be present in each moment. Mindfulness helps you appreciate the now, reducing anxiety about the future or dwelling on the past.

Cultivate Gratitude: Focus on what you’re thankful for. Gratitude shifts your perspective towards the positive aspects of life.

Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries that protect your peace. This might involve saying no to things that drain you or setting limits on your time and energy.

Connect with Others: Foster meaningful connections with friends, family, or a community that supports and uplifts you.

Prioritize Self-Care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient rest, and activities that rejuvenate you.

Forgiveness: Practice forgiveness towards yourself and others. Holding onto grudges or guilt can disrupt inner peace.

Follow Your Passions: Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Pursue your passions, hobbies, or interests regularly.

Remember, simplicity lies in consciously choosing what aligns with your values and brings you peace. It’s about simplifying your focus on what truly matters in life and letting go of what doesn’t contribute positively to your well-being.

anxietyWhat’s the best daily relief from stress?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for stress relief, as what works can vary from person to person.  However, here are some simple daily practices that often help in relieving stress:

  1. Deep Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing or diaphragmatic breathing. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can quickly calm your nervous system.
  2. Mindfulness or Meditation: Spend a few minutes each day in conscious or meditation. This practice can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and improve focus.
  3. Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical exercise. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, dancing, or any form of workout, physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural stress fighters.
  4. Mindful Eating: Pay attention to what you eat and savor each bite. Eating mindfully can help reduce stress and improve digestion.
  5. Take Breaks: Schedule short breaks throughout your day, especially if you’re working or feeling overwhelmed. Stepping away from tasks for a few minutes can help you recharge.
  6. Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, even if it’s just for a short walk. Nature has a calming effect on the mind and body.
  7. Listen to Music: Listen to calming or uplifting music that resonates with you. Music has the power to alter mood and reduce stress levels.
  8. Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens, especially before bedtime. Blue light emitted by screens can affect sleep quality and increase stress.
  9. Journal thoughts: Write down your thoughts and feelings. Journals can help organize your thoughts and emotions, reducing stress.
  10. Social Support: Connect with friends, family, or a support network. Talking to someone you trust can provide comfort and perspective.

Experiment with these practices to find what works best for you.

Remember finding inner peace is a journey, and it might take time and practice. It’s about understanding yourself, accepting who you are, and intentionally choosing practices that promote peace and well-being in your life.

Combining a few of these activities into your daily routine can significantly contribute to stress reduction and overall well-being.

          Top Three Concerns:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is TikTok

tiktokIs TikTok safe to use?

As of my last update in December 2022, TikTok has become a popular social media platform, but there were concerns about its safety and privacy practices. Here are some factors to consider:

  1. Privacy Concerns: TikTok collects a significant amount of user data, including location information, device information, and browsing history. This raised concerns about how this data was being used and shared.
  2. Data Security: There were reports of vulnerabilities and potential security risks in the TikTok app, which could expose user data to potential breaches or unauthorized access.
  3. Content Exposure: The nature of TikTok, being a video-sharing platform, means that users can potentially share personal information unintentionally or expose themselves to cyber bullying and online harassment.
  4. Age Restrictions: TikTok has a minimum age requirement, but enforcing it can be challenging. Younger users might be exposed to content that’s not suitable for their age.
  5. Inappropriate Content: Like any social media platform, TikTok can host a range of content, including inappropriate or explicit material. The platform does have some content moderation measures in place, but they might not catch everything.
  6. User Experience: The addictive nature of TikTok might lead to excessive screen time, which can have implications for mental health and productivity.

creative challengeTo determine if TikTok is safe for you to use, consider the following steps:

  1. Review Privacy Settings: Take a look at the app’s privacy settings and customize them to your comfort level. Limit the amount of personal information you share on the platform.
  2. Check Permissions: Be cautious about granting permissions to access your camera, microphone, and location. Only provide these permissions when necessary.
  3. Understand Content: Familiarize yourself with the types of content shared on TikTok and be mindful of what you engage with.
  4. Monitor Usage: Keep track of your usage time on the app and ensure it doesn’t interfere with your daily responsibilities or well-being.
  5. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest privacy and security concerns related to TikTok and other social media platforms.
  6. Talk to Young Users: If you’re a parent or guardian of a young user, have an open conversation about the potential risks and responsible usage of TikTok.

Remember that the safety of any online platform can evolve over time, and it’s important to stay updated on current trends and news related to TikTok’s safety measures and practices.

What age group uses TikTok the most?

TikTok was most popular among younger age groups, particularly teenagers and young adults. The platform gained significant traction among users in their teens and early twenties. However, this popularity might have continued to evolve since then.

TikTok’s user base varies by region and demographic factors, but it generally appeals to:

  1. Teenagers: TikTok became especially popular among teenagers, offering them a platform for creative expression and entertainment.
  2. Young Adults: Users in their early twenties also make up a substantial portion of TikTok’s user base. Many college students and young professionals use the app.
  3. Younger Users: There are also users below the age of 13 on TikTok, although the platform’s terms of service officially require users to be at least 13 years old.

It’s worth noting that the age distribution on social media platforms can change over time, and newer data might provide more accurate insights into the current demographics of TikTok users. If you’re interested in the most up-to-date information, I recommend checking recent surveys or studies about TikTok’s user demographics.

What is the biggest use of tiktok?

TikTok is primarily used as a short-form video-sharing platform where users can create, share, and discover videos set to music. The biggest use of TikTok is for entertainment and creative expression. Here are some of the main ways in which people use TikTok:

  1. Video Creation: Users create short videos, typically ranging from 15 seconds to 3 minutes, often set to music. These videos can showcase a wide range of content, including lip-syncing, dancing, comedy skits, tutorials, challenges, and more.
  2. Entertainment: TikTok is a hub for discovering entertaining and engaging content. Users scroll through their “For You” page to watch videos from a diverse range of creators, exploring trending challenges, memes, and creative ideas.
  3. Trends and Challenges: TikTok is known for viral challenges and trends that spread rapidly throughout the platform. Users participate in these challenges by creating their own videos that adhere to a specific theme or concept.
  4. Music Discovery: Many songs become popular on TikTok due to their use in viral videos. This has led to increased exposure for artists and has even influenced music charts and streaming platforms.
  5. Creativity and Artistic Expression: TikTok provides a platform for users to express their creativity through visual storytelling, video editing, and innovative ideas.
  6. Personal Branding: Some users use TikTok as a way to build their personal brand and gain a following. This has led to the rise of social media influencers and content creators on the platform.
  7. Educational Content: TikTok is also used to share informative and educational content. Users create videos that teach various skills, provide tips, or share knowledge on a wide range of subjects.
  8. Social Interaction: TikTok has a strong sense of community, with users engaging through comments, likes, shares, and duets (videos that are created in response to another user’s video). It can serve as a way for people to connect and interact with others who share similar interests.
  9. Business and Marketing: Brands and businesses have also started using TikTok as a marketing platform to reach younger audiences and promote their products or services.

The way people use TikTok can vary widely based on their interests, age, and cultural context. The platform’s dynamic nature and ability to quickly spread content have contributed to its popularity as a space for entertainment and creativity.

looking-at-phoneDoes TikTok save your data?

Yes, TikTok collects and saves user data. Like many other social media platforms, TikTok gathers various types of data from its users. This data can include:

  1. User Profile Information: This includes the information you provide when you create an account, such as your username, profile picture, and bio.
  2. Usage Data: TikTok collects information about how you interact with the app, such as the videos you watch, the accounts you follow, the likes and comments you make, and the hashtags you use.
  3. Device Information: The app collects data about your device, including its type, operating system, unique device identifiers, and other technical information.
  4. Location Data: If you allow TikTok to access your location, the app can collect information about your precise or general location.
  5. Contact Information: If you grant permission, TikTok can access your phone’s contact list, which helps the app suggest friends to follow.
  6. Metadata: This includes information about the videos you upload, such as the time and date of the video, the location where it was recorded, and the captions and hashtags you include.

It’s important to note that TikTok has faced scrutiny and criticism regarding its data privacy practices. Concerns have been raised about how the collected data is used, shared, and potentially accessed by third parties. TikTok’s ownership by a Chinese company, ByteDance, has also led to concerns about potential connections to the Chinese government and data security.

To address some of these concerns, TikTok has taken steps to enhance transparency and privacy for its users. For instance, they’ve introduced features that allow users to control who can comment on their videos, who can duet with them, and more. They’ve also published guidelines on how they handle user data and have set up a Trust and Safety Hub to provide more information about their safety and security practices.

However, it’s always a good practice to review an app’s privacy policy and settings to understand how your data is being used and take appropriate steps to protect your privacy online.

Can anyone use TikTok?

TikTok has age restrictions in place, and its terms of service officially require users to be at least 13 years old to create an account and use the platform. However, like with many online platforms, enforcing these age restrictions can be challenging.

TikTok offers a separate app called “TikTok for Younger Users” that is designed for users under the age of 13. This version provides a more limited experience and additional privacy protections to comply with child online privacy laws, such as the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in the United States.

It’s important to note that while TikTok has these age restrictions, some younger users might still find ways to access the platform by providing false information about their age. Parents and guardians are encouraged to have conversations with their children about online safety and responsible internet usage, especially when it comes to social media platforms like TikTok.

 

Today’s Trials and Tribulations

Today's Trials and Tribulations

Weird times right now isn’t it…

Yes, today’s world presents various challenges and difficulties that can impact people’s well-being and quality of life. The term “trials and tribulations” often refers to hardships, struggles, or adversities that individuals, communities, or societies face.

Some of the factors contributing to the challenges people are experiencing today include:

  1. Global Health Crises: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant health, economic, and social challenges. It has led to illness, loss of loved ones, economic instability, and disruptions to daily life.
  2. Economic Uncertainty: Economic instability, job insecurity, and financial stress can have a profound impact on people’s mental and emotional well-being.
  3. Environmental Concerns: Climate change, natural disasters, and environmental degradation can lead to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and other hardships.
  4. Social and Political Issues: Divisions and conflicts in society, political tensions, and human rights challenges can cause stress and uncertainty.
  5. Mental Health Struggles: The pressures of modern life, combined with the challenges mentioned above, can contribute to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
  6. Technological Impact: While technology has brought many benefits, it has also led to concerns such as privacy issues, digital overload, and social disconnection.
  7. Displacement and Migration: People around the world are facing forced displacement due to conflict, persecution, and other factors, leading to challenges in finding safety, shelter, and stability.
  8. Healthcare Access: Disparities in healthcare access and quality can result in unequal health outcomes and impact vulnerable populations disproportionately.
  9. Cultural and Identity Concerns: Individuals and communities may face challenges related to preserving their cultural heritage, languages, and identities in a rapidly changing world.
  10. Education Disruptions: Disruptions in education, whether due to the pandemic or other factors, can impact learning opportunities and future prospects for many.

Despite these challenges, people often demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and the capacity to come together to support one another. Community and social connections, access to resources, mental health support, and efforts to address systemic issues can all play a role in helping individuals navigate these trials and tribulations. It’s important for individuals, communities, and societies to work collectively to find solutions and support each other in facing these challenges.

What can we do about today’s hardships?

Addressing today’s hardships requires a multi-faceted approach that involves individuals, communities, governments, organizations, and society as a whole. While the specific actions may vary based on the nature of the challenges, here are some general strategies that can be applied to help alleviate hardships:

  1. Supportive Communities:
    • Foster a sense of community and support among friends, family, neighbors, and local organizations.
    • Engage in open conversations about challenges, mental health, and well-being to reduce stigma and create a supportive environment.
  2. Access to Resources:
    • Advocate for equitable access to healthcare, education, employment, and basic needs such as food, shelter, and clean water.
    • Support organizations and initiatives that provide resources and assistance to vulnerable populations.
  3. Mental Health Care:
    • Promote awareness of mental health issues and seek professional help when needed.
    • Advocate for improved mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.
  4. Policy and Advocacy:
    • Participate in advocacy efforts to influence policy changes that address systemic issues such as healthcare, social inequality, and environmental protection.
    • Vote for leaders and policies that prioritize the well-being of citizens and the environment.
  5. Education and Awareness:
    • Educate yourself and others about the challenges people are facing, including the root causes and potential solutions.
    • Raise awareness through social media, community events, workshops, and educational campaigns.
  6. Environmental Responsibility:
    • Advocate for and practice sustainable behaviors to address climate change and reduce environmental impact.
    • Support policies and initiatives that promote renewable energy, conservation, and Eco-friendly practices.
  7. Resilience and Adaptation:
    • Develop personal resilience skills to cope with challenges and setbacks.
    • Encourage adaptable approaches to problem-solving and encourage innovation in the face of adversity.
  8. Volunteerism and Philanthropy:
    • Volunteer your time, skills, or resources to organizations working on various issues.
    • Support charitable organizations financially to help them carry out their missions.
  9. Civic Engagement:
    • Participate in community development projects, town hall meetings, and local initiatives to improve the well-being of your area.
    • Collaborate with others to identify and implement solutions to specific challenges.
  10. Cultivate Empathy and Compassion:
    • Develop empathy for others’ struggles and challenges.
    • Practice kindness and compassion in your interactions and relationships.

What can we do about today’s hardships?

 

Remember that even small actions can make a positive impact when they are part of a collective effort. By working together, we can create a more supportive, resilient, and equitable world that addresses the hardships faced by individuals and communities.

 

Best way to deal with our strange society

Dealing with the complexities and challenges of a rapidly changing and sometimes perplexing society can be daunting, but there are strategies you can employ to navigate it in a more balanced and effective way. Here are some approaches to consider:

  1. Cultivate Critical Thinking:
    • Develop the ability to critically evaluate information, media, and narratives. This will help you make informed decisions and form your own opinions. Today's Trials and Tribulations 2
  2. Stay Informed:
    • Stay updated on current events, social trends, and cultural shifts. Being informed empowers you to engage in meaningful conversations and make decisions aligned with your values.
  3. Open-Mindedness:
    • Approach different perspectives with an open mind. This can help you better understand the complexity of issues and foster more constructive conversations.
  4. Practice Self-Care:
    • Prioritize your well-being by practicing self-care routines, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and seeking support when needed.
  5. Build Resilience:
    • Develop resilience to cope with challenges and uncertainties. This involves adapting to change, maintaining a positive outlook, and seeking solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
  6. Engage in Constructive Dialogue:
    • Engage in respectful conversations with others who hold differing views. Constructive dialogue fosters understanding and can lead to finding common ground.
  7. Focus on What You Can Control:
    • Concentrate your energy on aspects of your life that you can influence or change. Letting go of factors beyond your control can reduce stress.
  8. Limit Exposure to Negative Influences:
    • Be mindful of the media you consume and the people you interact with. Limit exposure to negativity and toxic influences.
  9. Connect with Like-Minded Individuals:
    • Seek out communities or groups that share your interests, values, and goals. Connecting with others who resonate with you can provide a sense of belonging.
  10. Take Breaks from Technology:
    • Unplug from technology periodically to reduce information overload and promote mindfulness.

Steps to consider

  1. Engage in Positive Actions:
    • Contribute positively to your community by volunteering, supporting local initiatives, and advocating for positive change.
  2. Continual Learning:
    • Embrace a growth mindset and pursue lifelong learning. Expanding your knowledge and skills can help you adapt to new situations.
  3. Set Boundaries:
    • Establish healthy boundaries in your relationships and commitments to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
  4. Focus on Solutions:
    • Instead of dwelling solely on problems, strive to identify potential solutions and take action where you can.
  5. Reflect and Reevaluate:
    • Regularly reflect on your values, goals, and the direction you want to take in your life. This can help you navigate the complexities of society with purpose.

Remember that dealing with a rapidly changing and sometimes strange society is a journey that requires ongoing self-awareness, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. By embracing these strategies, you can navigate the challenges and uncertainties more effectively while maintaining a sense of purpose and well-being.

Find the Root Cause of Your Problems

Root Cause of Your Problems

Find the Root Cause of Your Problems

Abstract

A family is a system of its own complexion composed of related people. Families interact with and operate within the communities and societies that they belong to. To decipher this family system, the complexion has to be simplified for ease of analysis.

A Genogram (a diagram illustrating a person’s family members, how they are related, and their medical history) is a tool that makes this possible. In an attempt to establish a theoretical yet comprehensive algorithm for understanding a family, this paper employs a theory that advocates for the idea that a proper course of action is that one capitalizes, by and large, on happiness.

The discussion commences with what families do to contain tensions and feuds within. What follows is a look into the impacts of areas of privilege as well as non-privilege on the family system concerning a person’s childhood. Professional positions to be taken by family therapists conclude the essay.

Bowen’s concept of differentiation

Talking of differentiation, it is a concept that can refer to a person as well as the family system. When a person can remain emotionally connected with the others in the family and express their individuality and act autonomously, we say he/she has individual differentiation. Differentiation may therefore refer to each family member’s ability to maintain his or her sense of self while remaining emotionally connected to the family; this is the mark of a healthy family.

Being differentiated means reacting by thinking and observing the processes that are happening between family members. Differentiation ensures that a family has a strong sense of self, an assertive communication style, and an acceptance of personal responsibility. When differentiation lacks, the pressure for togetherness is strong and family members react more readily from emotion and subjectivity than from thinking and objectivity. (Peter, 2008)

I strongly believe that I am differentiated as per the hereinafter discussed reasons. I accept differences in goals, values, and beliefs between my family members. I see little need to encourage other family members to be the same. I can accept different opinions and choices from other people. It is not necessary to triangle a third person into an alliance to “prove the other is wrong”.

I can accept different opinions and choices from other people. I can maintain a sense of self whilst being in contact with my family of origin by observing more, reacting less, and being objective. I maintain my own identity without disowning ties with my family of origin.

When I step outside the family emotional system and observe the processes between other family members without feeling the urge to be a part of it. If called upon to join a dispute, I maintain an objective stance and let the family members originally involved in a dispute handle their differences alone. An undifferentiated person easily triangles into allying with one of the disputing members.

Root Cause of Your ProblemsFamily of Origin Genogram

The Genogram is a layout of the family members that illustrates their relationships with one another. It also describes what these members are products of as suggested by their behaviors, ways of life, beliefs, and religion, amongst others. A Genogram is a family tree representation of the links between parents and children. Unlimited interaction gives the subject its complex nature. This paper emphasizes the necessity of understanding families since personalities can make your life easier and more successful. Family therapies are essential because of the inevitability of conflicts within the interactions.

Family Emotional System

The Genogram informs on the modes of interaction between the family member and this interaction is not a warranty but consequential conflicts and emotional or tension rise result from it. These basic interactive relationships define where the tension develops. According to Rabstejne, (2010) member attitudes and points of reference are basic forces that drive these emotions and developed tensions. Serious conflicts result if family tension is existent for a prolonged period.

The factors that tension intensity depends on include; the family’s adaptation to stress, patterns of relationships, and interaction with communities or societies. The patterns of relationships play important roles in dealing with tension because they help in the identification of problems. The basic patterns are dysfunction in one spouse, marital conflicts, and impairments.

Dysfunction in a Spouse

The dysfunction in question may be physical or emotional, emotional, herein, engulfs those of the mind and feelings of the heart. This is, usually, the result of one partner insensitively trying to change the other spouse. This is best explained by the pressure that one spouse puts on the other. This pressure pushes the victim’s spouse to behave or act in some manner desirable to the villain. This kind of relationship goes on for a while till the anxiety and emotions of the other partner heighten. It is this alongside other effective factors that develop conflict and dysfunction spread out.

Marital Conflicts

An increase in family tension makes everyone around more anxious. At some point, communication between the spouses deteriorates and worsens such that they discuss family issues with third-party persons. In most cases, these third parties are only friends. Due to this, they lose focus and instead of dealing with the real problem, they criticize each other and put their efforts into trying to change or control one another.

Impairment of One or More Children

The impairment may be of any form, mental or physical, and the parent’s reaction towards the child is the most relevant. Since the child is disadvantaged and uniquely different from the others, the parents focus a lot on them and gradually, their worry increases. The child is affected when the parents expect a lot from them, which they are not able to achieve. It affects them mentally and emotionally.

Areas of Privilege and Non-Privilege That Impact Childhood

Membership in a family can only be decided by each member of that family. Early childhood educators play the role of noting those that constitute the family of a child yet they never define the family of the child for them. The privileges that this child has access to depend on the social status of the family, the community in which they exist, and the perspective of life that they have. Depending on the location of origin, these privileges can be grouped along racial and gender lines.

According to McGoldrick & Hardy, the term privilege should not be perceived as a favored state only but as over-empowering certain parties. However, the article Unpacking the invisible knapsack suggests that some privileges are conferred by birth. This introduces privilege defined along racial lines, the white privilege. In countries of whites and black, childhood schooling is characterized by teachers treating these two races differently.

Gender is an area of both privilege and non-privileges as well. In a family setting, parental love is of the essence in the growth and development of a child. The privilege difference is exhibited when parents love their children by gender where a mother loves the daughter more than the son and a father loves a son more than the daughter.

From a different perspective, a child with no parents considers themselves not as privileged as those parents are. This is evidenced by the social sense. The book by McGoldrick and Hardy, (1989) imposes the realization that when handling persons with particular emotional pains due to say, racial discrimination, it is important to view racism as an individual act.

Family Therapy

To avoid triangulation into families that they work with, a therapist must differentiate from their families of origin. Triangulation, in this context, refers to a three-person relationship. A two-person relationship, like that of a spouse, is considered unstable because it tolerates little tension before, unexpectedly, involving a third party.

Since the therapist belongs to a family too and has their own opinions on family issues, the profession requires that they be careful not to be considered, by the spouses, as the third-party with whom to shift or heighten the tension.

The idea behind this is that even though spreading the tension to a third party stabilizes the system, the problem does not get solved. The relevance of the therapist is to help the family resolve problems and give references to psychiatrists if necessary.

Precisely, one of the most difficult families to work with as a therapist is those of parents who are unwilling to change for the better, despite a therapist’s professional advice. This is mostly common with therapy for children who have experienced neglect. Nevertheless, the therapist must advise on how to develop their relationship with their children.

Conclusion

After a detailed discussion, the paper’s objectives of informing the key areas and critical factors of the family were achieved. The Genogram plays an essential role in establishing the necessary information about one’s family. A family system is also important for various social developments of a child and the privileges that a child is conferred to define their conduct and points of view.

For family therapists, professionalism must take its course all through, complemented by sensitivity to the view and position of a patient root cause problem solving, Further research is recommended to inform this area.

 

The article was originally written by
Babak Max Karimbeik, edited by Bob Billings
 

Proper Body Posture

Maintaining proper body posture is essential for overall health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you maintain good posture:

“Sit and stand tall” is an encouragement or instruction often given to improve posture. It suggests that one should maintain an upright and aligned position while sitting or standing. This can help promote good spinal alignment, reduce strain on the body, and project an air of confidence. Remember to sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed, and when standing, maintain an upright stance with your shoulders back and chin slightly lifted.

Support your lower back: When sitting for prolonged periods, use a chair with good lumbar support or place a small pillow or cushion behind your lower back to maintain the natural curve of your spine.

Supporting your lower back is important for maintaining good posture and preventing strain or injuries.

Maintaining the Proper Body PostureHere are a few ways you can support your lower back:

  • Maintain proper posture: Sit or stand up straight with your shoulders back and relaxed. Avoid slouching or hunching forward, as this puts extra pressure on your lower back.
  • Use ergonomic seating: If you have a desk job, invest in an ergonomic chair that provides lumbar support. Ensure the chair is adjusted to fit the natural curve of your spine.
  • Practice core-strengthening exercises: Building a strong core can help support your lower back. Exercises like planks, bridges, and bird dogs can strengthen the abdominal and back muscles.
  • Lift properly: When lifting heavy objects, use your legs rather than your back. Bend your knees and keep your back straight as you lift, using the strength of your legs and core to do the work.
  • Take breaks and stretch: If you have a sedentary job, take regular breaks to stretch and move around. Stretching can help relieve tension in your lower back and keep your muscles flexible.
  • Remember, if you experience persistent or severe lower back pain, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
  • Ergonomic furniture refers to furniture items that are designed to promote good posture, provide support, and enhance overall comfort during prolonged periods of sitting or working.

Here are a few examples of ergonomic furniture:

  • Ergonomic Chairs: These chairs are adjustable in height, have proper lumbar support, and often come with adjustable armrests and headrests. They promote good posture and reduce the risk of back and neck strain.
  • Adjustable Standing Desks: These desks allow you to switch between sitting and standing positions while working. They help reduce sedentary behavior and can alleviate the stress on your back, neck, and shoulders.

Adjustable standing desks are desks that can be easily adjusted in height, allowing users to switch between sitting and standing positions while working. These desks typically have mechanisms or motors that enable smooth height adjustments, allowing users to find the most comfortable and ergonomic position for their needs.

Using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse can provide several benefits, including:

  • Reduced strain and discomfort: Ergonomic keyboards and mice are designed to promote a more relaxed and natural hand, wrist, and arm position. This reduces the strain on muscles and tendons, minimizing the risk of developing repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) like carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Increased comfort and productivity: By offering a more comfortable typing and navigating experience, ergonomic peripherals can help prevent fatigue and discomfort during extended computer use. This improved comfort can lead to increased productivity, as users are less likely to experience pain or distraction.
  • Improved posture: Ergonomic keyboards and mice encourage healthier typing and mousing positions, which can help maintain proper posture. This helps reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues such as neck, shoulder, and back pain.
  • Customizability and adaptability: Many ergonomic peripherals offer customizable features, allowing users to adjust keyboard tilt, mouse sensitivity, and other settings to suit their individual needs and preferences. This adaptability enhances user comfort and optimizes the user interface for better efficiency.
  • Prevention of long-term health issues: By promoting proper alignment and reducing stress on joints, ergonomic keyboards and mice can contribute to the prevention of long-term health issues associated with repetitive computer use. This includes conditions like tendonitis, bursitis, and other RSIs.

Overall, using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse can significantly enhance user comfort, productivity, and long-term health by reducing strain and promoting better posture.

 Monitor Stands: These stands help position your computer monitor at eye level, reducing strain on your neck and preventing slouching.

  • Footrests: Using a footrest can help improve blood circulation, reduce pressure on your legs, and promote better posture while sitting. When it comes to footrests, they are typically designed to provide support and comfort for your feet while sitting for extended periods. They can be used in various settings such as offices, homes, or even during travel. Footrests can help improve circulation, reduce leg strain, and promote proper posture by elevating your feet off the ground.

There are different types of footrests available, including adjustable footrests that allow you to customize the height and angle according to your preference. Some footrests feature built-in massage or heat functions for added relaxation.

Take regular breaks: If you have a sedentary job, make sure to take breaks every 30 minutes or so. Stand up, stretch, and move around to relieve muscle tension and stress on your spine.

  • Taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining productivity and overall well-being. It allows you to rest and recharge, preventing mental fatigue and burnout. Remember to schedule short breaks throughout your work or study sessions. Stand up, stretch, go for a walk, or engage in activities that help clear your mind. By incorporating regular breaks into your routine, you can improve focus, creativity, and overall productivity.
  • Strengthen your core muscles: Regular exercise, particularly activities that target your core muscles (e.g., Pilates, yoga, planks), can help improve your posture by strengthening the muscles that support your spine.

When lifting objects, bend your knees, keep your back straight, and use your leg muscles to lift the load. Avoid twisting your body while lifting, it’s important to follow proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

Here are some tips:

  • Plan and assess: Before attempting to lift, assess the weight of the object and make sure it’s within your capabilities. If it’s too heavy, ask for assistance or use equipment like a dolly or lifting straps.
  • Warm up: Perform some light stretching or a brief warm-up exercise to prepare your muscles for the task.
  • Use proper posture: Stand close to the object with your feet shoulder-width apart for stability. Bend at your knees, not your waist, and keep your back straight. Avoid twisting your body while lifting.
  • Get a good grip: Use both hands to get a secure grip on the object. If it has handles, use them. If not, grip it firmly on opposite sides.
  • Lift with your legs: Engage your leg muscles by straightening your knees while lifting. Use the power of your legs, not your back, to lift the object.
  • Keep it close: Hold the object close to your body to maintain balance and reduce strain on your back.
  • Take small steps: Instead of twisting or turning, take small steps to change direction. This helps prevent back injuries.
  • Know your limits: If an object is too heavy to lift safely, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance or use mechanical aids.

Remember, proper lifting techniques are crucial for avoiding back strain or other injuries. If you have any concerns about your physical ability to lift heavy objects, consult with a healthcare professional.

Sleep in a good position: Choose a mattress and pillow that provide adequate support for your spine. Sleeping on your back or side with a pillow that aligns your head with your neck is generally considered good for maintaining proper posture during sleep.

Maintaining the Proper Body Posture 6When it comes to sleeping in a good position, it largely depends on individual comfort and any specific health conditions. However, here are a few general tips:

  • Back Sleeping: Sleeping on your back with a pillow to support your neck and a small pillow beneath your knees can help maintain a neutral spine alignment.
  • Side Sleeping: If you prefer sleeping on your side, try placing a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned. Use a supportive pillow that keeps your head and neck in line with your spine.
  • Avoid Stomach Sleeping: Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck and spine. If possible, try to avoid this position or use a flat pillow to minimize strain.
  • Mattress and Pillow Support: It’s essential to have a mattress and pillow that offer adequate support based on your comfort preferences and any existing chronic pain or conditions. Everyone’s needs differ, so choose what works best for you.

Remember, finding a comfortable and supportive sleeping position is subjective. It’s important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to promote healthy and restful sleep.

Remember, practicing good posture is a habit that needs to be developed over time. Be mindful of your body alignment throughout the day and make necessary adjustments to maintain proper posture.

 

Unleashing the Power of Self-Motivation

Introduction

Unleashing the Power of Self Motivation 6Unleashing the Power of Self-Motivation requires Self-motivation and is a powerful tool that can propel us toward achieving our goals and aspirations. It is the driving force that keeps us going, even in the face of adversity. This article explores the concept of self-motivation, its importance, and practical strategies to enhance it.

Understanding Self-Motivation

Self-motivation is an intrinsic drive to pursue our goals and ambitions without external influence. It is the inner strength that pushes us to take action and make progress, even when things get tough. It is the fuel that powers our journey toward success, irrespective of the obstacles we encounter.

The Importance of Self-Motivation

Self Esteem is crucial for several reasons. It fosters resilience, enabling us to bounce back from setbacks and keep going. It enhances productivity and efficiency, as motivated individuals are more likely to take initiative and perform tasks effectively. Moreover, self-motivation promotes personal growth and development, as it encourages continuous learning and improvement.

Strategies to Enhance Self-Motivation

  1. Set Clear Goals: Having clear, specific, and achievable goals provides a sense of direction. It gives us something to strive for and keeps us focused. Write down your goals and revisit them regularly to keep your motivation levels high.
  2. Break Down Tasks: Large tasks can seem overwhelming and may dampen your motivation. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the process less daunting and provides a sense of accomplishment as you complete each task.
  3. Maintain a Positive Attitude: A positive mindset can significantly influence your motivation levels. Cultivate a positive attitude by focusing on your strengths, celebrating your achievements, and maintaining a gratitude journal.
  4. Practice Self-Care: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can boost your energy levels and enhance your mood, thereby improving your motivation. Additionally, engage in activities you enjoy relieving stress and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
  5. Surround Yourself with Positivity: The people and environment around you can significantly impact your motivation. Surround yourself with positive, supportive individuals who inspire and encourage you. Also, create a conducive environment that promotes focus and productivity.
  6. Embrace Challenges: View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. They provide valuable learning experiences and enhance your problem-solving skills, thereby boosting your confidence and motivation.
  7. Practice Self-Reflection: Regular self-reflection helps you understand your motivations, strengths, and areas for improvement. It provides insights into your progress toward your goals and helps you make necessary adjustments to stay on track.
  8. Stay Committed: Commitment is key to maintaining motivation. Stay committed to your goals, even when faced with difficulties. Remember why you started and how far you’ve come and use this as motivation to keep going.
  9. Reward Yourself: Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Rewards provide positive reinforcement, boost your morale, and motivate you to continue working towards your goals.
  10. Seek Continuous Learning: Embrace a growth mindset and seek continuous learning. This not only enhances your skills and knowledge but also keeps you motivated and engaged.

Does self-motivation work for anyone?

Yes, self-motivation can work for anyone. It’s a universal concept that applies to all individuals, regardless of their age, profession, or background. However, techniques for self-motivation and the effectiveness of self-motivation can vary from person to person, as it largely depends on one’s mindset, attitude, and willingness to take action!

Unleashing the Power of Self Motivation 3Self-motivation is not a trait that people either have or don’t have. It’s a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. It requires practice, patience, and persistence. Some people might naturally be more self-motivated than others, but everyone can improve their self-motivation.  

It’s also important to note that self-motivation is not a one-size-fits-all concept. What motivates one person might not motivate another. Therefore, each individual must understand what drives them, set personal goals that align with their values and aspirations, and develop a personal strategy for maintaining motivation.

Starting on the path of self-motivation involves a few key steps:

Set Clear Goals: The first step towards self-motivation is to set clear, specific, and achievable goals. These goals should be something you genuinely want to achieve, not something you think you should do or what others expect of you.

They should be “SMART”: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Identify You’re ‘Why’: Understanding why you want to achieve your goals is crucial. This ‘why’ is the reason behind your goals and will serve as a powerful motivator when you face challenges or setbacks.

Develop a Positive Mindset: Cultivate positive techniques for a self-motivation mindset. Believe in your abilities and maintain a positive attitude towards your goals and the journey to achieve them. This mindset will help you overcome obstacles and keep you motivated.

Create a Plan: Once you have clear goals and a strong ‘why’, create a plan to achieve them. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks and set a timeline for each. This will make the process less overwhelming and more manageable.

Take Action: Start working on your plan. Take small steps towards your goals every day. Remember, progress, no matter how small, is still progress.

Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. This will boost your confidence and motivation.

Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in the journey of self-motivation. Stay committed to your goals and keep working towards them, even when things get tough.

Practice Self-Care: Don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques can help maintain your energy levels and keep you motivated.

 Remember, self-motivation is a journey, not a destination. It requires continuous effort and commitment. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can enhance your self-motivation and achieve your goals.

 Conclusion

Self-motivation is the key to success and a vital ingredient for success. It is the inner spark that ignites our passion and drives us towards our goals. By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can enhance your self-motivation and set yourself on the path to success. Remember, the journey towards achieving your goals is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay patient, stay motivated, and self-motivation is my strength keep moving forward.


Unleashing the Power of Self Motivation 4

 

Conflict Management in an Organization

Conflict Management in an OrganizationConflict management in an organization is done through several approaches

  • Preventive measures

In a preventive approach, the company management tries to develop a work environment or a situation where dysfunctional conflict can be avoided. Conflict is not constructive, so it needs to be resolved quickly as soon as it seems to arise.

Efforts should be made consistently to prevent conflicts from arising. Following are the preventive measures taken by company management to reduce organizational conflicts.

  • Develop Common Goals

It has been seen that the main cause for the development of organizational conflicts is due to incompatible objectives. This occurs when conflicts between groups or between an organization and its employees occur. The prime strategy to reduce conflicts is to establish common goals that all the groups can agree on to facilitate effective communication. The common goals facilitate mutual group dependency since they are high-value superordinate goals.

An incentive system can be used to reduce group conflicts and reward the task that benefits the organization.

  • Reducing Interdependence

Interdependence is the main cause of all inter-group conflicts. For instance, staff managers as well as line managers. When the interdependence will be low the level of conflicts among the groups will also be low. Although, indeed, interdependency among groups can’t be avoided totally.

It is better to separate the departments physically instead of separating them organizationally. 

  • Reduce The Shared Resources

Sharing scarce resources poses another cause for inter-group conflict. This type of conflict is reduced by management by reducing the sharing. One way to reduce this inter-group conflict is by increasing the scarce resources so that all units can use them independently. However, being scarce, these resources can’t always be increased. The best technique for solving this conflict is the optimum allocation of scarce resources and reducing group conflicts.

 

  • Building Trust and Communication Conflict Management in an Organization

Management ensures building trust among all unit members. More honesty and trust in an organization will ensure effective communication. Management should ensure that all groups and individuals communicate openly with one another to avoid miscommunication and misunderstanding. Building more trust will help them understand each other’s problems and be open to each other. 

 

  • Coordination

The next step after effective communication is maintaining proper coordination. Conflict can be managed in an organization by properly coordinating all organizational activities. It is better to establish a specialized unit to deal with coordination problems whenever it arises.

  • Exchanging Personnel

Another best way for managing and reducing organizational conflict is exchanging the personnel of the conflicting team for a specific period. The exchange of the conflicting group’s personnel ensures better understanding between groups where one person will defend and present the other’s role. The method of personnel exchange is identical to role reversal. 

  • Superior Authority 

Suppose a conflict that arises in an organization can’t be solved by organizational team members or group members. In that case, it has to be reported to the superior authority, who can resolve organizational conflict and give a correct decision.

Although the decision may not result in agreement all the members will accept it since it will be given by a superior who holds an official higher rank.

  • Reorganizing the Conflicting Group 

Conflict management can be ensured through group reorganization. Group members having similarities will be put in one group since they have common interests and similar perspectives. So, their objectives, as well as the problem-solving approach, will also be similar. As this group includes predictable behavior, it becomes easy for the management to reduce conflict.

  • Curative measures Conflict Management in an Organization 22

The curative measure helps to resolve behavioral conflict. This measure helps resolve conflicts when they occur and become dysfunctional in the company.

Five major styles for conflict management 

Conflict is a natural phenomenon that takes place in the work environment. However, it leads to mental health problems, absenteeism, and low organizational productivity. Conflict also acts as a great motivator to increase flexibility, generate new ideas, and better understand the relationship and workplace.

Therefore, it is important to manage conflict effectively to help the organization gain more success. As per TKI (Thomas Kilman conflict mode instrument), five big conflict management styles are used by human resources.

  • Collaborating Style

This conflict style requires groups to be cooperative and assertive and collaborative to find a solution to work and work with others. This conflict management style helps to satisfy the needs of all people as it is the opposite of avoiding. This style works best to minimize negative feelings and maintain long-term relationships.

For instance, integrating two departments into one department where both sides work in the best way in the new department.

  • Competing Style

Uncooperative and assertive people take this style to achieve their concerns without caring about the relationship. This style works for an organization while hiring a new client and competing with other companies. 

  • Avoiding Style

Groups adopt this style to avoid conflict and take diplomatic steps to withdraw themselves from risky situations. For instance, conflict with any member regarding their ethics. It is better to use this style to postpone the situation /outcome when it is secure. 

Accommodating Style  Conflict Management in an Organization 2

An accommodating style is an approach to conflict management that may seem generous and self-sacrificing but also tends to take advantage of your weakness.

It is better to use this style to avoid conflict when you want to preserve your relationship with the opposite person and when you don’t care much about the result. 

 

 

 

  • Compromising Style

This style is a perfect solution that is mutually accepted by both parties and satisfies both conflicting parties while carrying an element of cooperation and assertiveness. It is better to use this style when the outcome isn’t important and there is a shortage of time. For instance, giving a little by making a decision and moving on to other important things. 

Hopefully, this help, and allows for peace and productivity in your organization.

The Latest Trends in Fashion

“Fashions Today: Where Style Meets Comfort!”

IntroductionFashions Today

Fashion today is a reflection of the ever-changing world we live in. It is a way for people to express themselves and show their individual style. From the latest trends to classic pieces, fashion today is all about personal expression. With the rise of social media, fashion has become more accessible than ever before.

People can now follow their favorite designers, influencers, and brands to stay up to date on the latest trends. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. But with a little research and creativity, anyone can find the perfect look to express their unique style.

Hey there streetwear fans!

Are you looking to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in streetwear? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Streetwear is constantly evolving, and it can be hard to keep up with all the new styles and trends. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

One of the biggest trends in streetwear right now is the use of bold colors and patterns. From bright neon colors to bold animal prints, streetwear designers are pushing the boundaries of fashion with their use of vibrant colors and patterns.

Another trend that’s been gaining traction is the use of oversized silhouettes. Oversized jackets, hoodies, and t-shirts are all popular choices for streetwear fans. This trend is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their style.

Latest Trends in Fashion
Latest Trends in Fashion

Finally, streetwear is also embracing the use of sustainable materials. From organic cotton to recycled polyester, streetwear designers are finding ways to create stylish pieces that are also eco-friendly.

So, there you have it! Those are just a few of the latest trends in streetwear. Keep an eye out for these styles and you’ll be sure to stay ahead of the curve, you fashion nova!

Sustainable fashion is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason! It’s a great way to reduce your environmental impact while still looking stylish. Here are some tips to help you incorporate sustainable fashion into your wardrobe.

  • Shop secondhand. Shopping secondhand is a great way to find unique pieces while also reducing your environmental impact. You can find great deals at thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like eBay and Poshmark.
  • Invest in quality pieces. Investing in quality pieces that will last for years is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Look for pieces made from natural materials like organic cotton, hemp, and linen.
  • Buy from sustainable brands. There are many sustainable fashion brands out there that use eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods. Do your research and find brands that align with your values.
  • Repair and upcycle. Instead of throwing out clothes that are worn out or no longer fit, try repairing or upcycling them. You can use patches, dye, and other techniques to give them a new life.

By following these tips, you can easily incorporate sustainable fashion into your wardrobe. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you’ll also look great!

The Rise of Athleisure: How It’s Changing the Fashion Industry

The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and the latest trend to take the world by storm is athleisure. This trend has been around for a few years now, but it’s only recently that it’s become a major part of the fashion industry.

Athleisure is a combination of athletic and leisure wear, and it’s all about comfort and style. It’s the perfect way to look fashionable while still being comfortable. From yoga pants and leggings to hoodies and sneakers, athleisure has become a staple in many people’s wardrobes.

The rise of athleisure has had a huge impact on the fashion industry. It’s changed the way people dress, and it’s opened up a whole new market for clothing companies. Companies are now creating stylish and comfortable pieces that are perfect for everyday wear.

The athleisure trend has also had an impact on the way people shop. People are now more likely to buy clothes that are comfortable and stylish, rather than just buying what’s in fashion. This has led to an increase in sales for companies that specialize in athleisure.

The athleisure trend is here to stay, and it’s changing the fashion industry in a big way. It’s making fashion nova more comfortable and accessible, and it’s giving people more options when it comes to their wardrobe. So if you’re looking for a way to stay fashionable and comfortable, then athleisure is definitely the way to go.

Conclusion

Fashions today are more diverse and accessible than ever before. With the rise of social media, fashion trends can spread quickly and easily, allowing people to express themselves in unique and creative ways. The fashion industry has also become more inclusive, with more sizes, styles, and colors available to suit everyone’s individual tastes. As fashion continues to evolve, it is important to remember that fashion is about expressing yourself and having fun.

Unlocking the Power of Schema Markup

Schema Markup

The first to know is Schema markup is a type of structured data that helps search engines understand the content of a webpage more clearly. It uses a specific vocabulary of tags or microdata to annotate the various elements on a webpage such as text, images, videos, and other types of content.

By using schema markup, webmasters and content creators can provide search engines with more detailed information about their content. This can help search engines create more accurate and informative search results pages, which can improve the visibility and click-through rates of a webpage.

Schema Markup

Schema markup is particularly useful for websites that provide information about businesses, products, events, reviews, and other types of content that require more detailed and structured information. It can also be used to provide additional context to search engines about the relationship between different elements on a webpage, such as an author, publisher, and date of publication.

Some common examples of schema markup include the use of tags to indicate the price of a product, the date and location of an event, the rating of a review, and the name and address of a business. There are many different types of schema markup available, and webmasters can choose the ones that are most relevant to their content.

 

Schema Markup and Common SEO Mistakes 77In today’s digital world, having a website is not enough to succeed in online marketing. A website must be optimized for search engines to drive traffic and achieve a high-ranking search engine results page (SERP). One of the best ways to improve a website’s SEO is through schema markup. But what exactly is schema markup, and how can it benefit your website?

What is Schema Markup

Schema Markup Schema markup is a type of structured data markup that can be used to improve the visibility of a website in search engine result pages. It is a code, usually written in HTML, that helps search engines better understand the content of a website and display it in a more meaningful way. Schema markup can be used to provide search engines with additional information about a website, such as its type, the person who created it, and the topics it covers. Common SEO Mistakes

1. Not optimizing page titles and meta descriptions: Page titles and meta descriptions should be optimized with keywords to help improve the visibility of your website in search engine result pages.

2. Not using relevant keywords: Keywords should be used throughout the content on your website to help improve the visibility of your website in search engine result pages.

3. Not optimizing images: Images should be optimized with relevant keywords to help improve the visibility of your website in search engine result pages.

4. Not setting up a sitemap: A sitemap should be created to help search engines easily navigate through your website and index it’s content.

5. Not building backlinks: Backlinks should be built from other websites.

Schema Markup 2Benefits of Schema Markup for SEO Schema markup

You need to improve visibility in search results: Schema helps search engines understand the content on a website, making it easier for them to display relevant information in search results. For example, if you have a recipe website, schema markup can help search engines display your recipes with images, ratings, and other important details directly in search results.

Increased click-through rates: When search engines display rich snippets with schema markup in search results, it can attract more clicks from potential visitors. These rich snippets can include images, reviews, ratings, and other important information that can make your website stand out from the competition.Schema Markup and Common SEO Mistakes

Better user experience

Schema markup can help search engines understand the context of a website’s content, making it easier for visitors to quickly find what they are looking for. This can lead to a better user experience and increased engagement on your website.

How Does Schema Markup Work

Schema code examples markup works by adding structured data to a website’s HTML code. This structured data can include information about the website’s content, such as its author, publishing date, ratings, and more. Once this structured data is added to a website, search engines can use it to create rich snippets, which are enhanced search results that include additional information beyond the page title and description.

For example, if you have a local business website, you can use schema markup to provide search engines with your business name, address, phone number, and other important details. This information can then be displayed in search results as a rich snippet, which can help potential customers find and contact your business more easily.

Best Practices for Optimizing Schema Markup Use relevant schema types

Choosing schema types relevant to your website’s content is essential. Choosing an appropriate schema type helps search engines understand the content better, leading to better visibility in search results. For example, if your website is a recipe website, using the recipe schema markup is more relevant than using the event schema markup.

Use specific properties: Use specific properties within your schema markup to provide more context to search engines about your content. For example, if you’re creating schema markup for a recipe, including information about cooking time, ingredient list, and nutritional information. The more specific information you provide, the better search engines can understand and display your content in search results.Schema Markup and Common SEO Mistakes 22

Use JSON-LD format to implement your schema markup. It is considered the best format because it is easy to implement, supports all schema types, and has better compatibility with search engines. Test your schema markup

Use Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool to test your schema markup and ensure that it is working correctly. This tool helps you identify any errors or issues with your schema markup and provides suggestions on how to fix them.

Keep your schema markup up to date

As your website’s content changes, update your schema markup to ensure that it remains accurate. For example, if you’ve added new products to your online store, update your schema markup to include information about these products.

Consider hiring an expert

Consider hiring an expert

Implementing Google schema guidelines can often be confusing if you don’t know what you’re doing. An SEO specialist can help ensure that your website’s schema markup is optimized and meets best practices, which can lead to improved search engine visibility.

JSONSchema Markup Summed Up

Schema markup is a powerful tool for improving the visibility and performance of websites in search engine results pages. By providing additional context to search engines about your website’s content, schema markup can help you achieve a higher ranking in search results, attract more traffic to your website, and provide a better user experience for visitors. Implementing schema markup can be a complex process, but by following best practices, you can ensure that your website is optimized for search engines and provide better visibility for your content.

To sum up, Schema markup is a valuable tool that website owners can use to provide more context to search engines about their content. By implementing schema markup correctly and following best practices, website owners can improve their website’s visibility in search results, attract more traffic, and provide a better user experience for visitors.

Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a critical aspect of any digital marketing strategy. It is the process of optimizing your website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). However, many businesses make common SEO mistakes that can hurt their rankings and ultimately affect their bottom line. In this blog post, we’ll highlight 10 common SEO mistakes to avoid, along with actionable tips to help you optimize your website and improve your search engine rankings.

Schema Markup and Common SEO Mistakes 77In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is more important than ever. With over 3.5 billion searches per day on Google alone, businesses cannot afford to neglect their search engine optimization (SEO) strategy. However, implementing a successful SEO Strategy schema markup can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the field. There are several common SEO mistakes that businesses make, which can negatively impact their website’s search engine rankings. In this post, we’ll discuss the 10 most common SEO mistakes to avoid, along with tips on how to avoid them.

Neglecting Keyword Research

One of the most technical SEO mistakes businesses make is neglecting keyword research. Keyword research is the process of identifying the search terms that users are typing into search engines to find information related to your business. You can increase your website’s visibility and attract more qualified traffic by targeting the right keywords. To avoid this mistake, start by identifying the keywords that are relevant to your business, and then use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find related keywords and phrases.

Overstuffing Keywords

While targeting the right keywords is essential, overstuffing them in your content can hurt your rankings. Keyword stuffing is the practice of using your target keywords excessively in your content, hoping to trick search engines into ranking your website higher. However, search engines are now smarter than ever and can easily detect keyword stuffing. To avoid this mistake, use your target keywords naturally throughout your content and avoid overusing them.

Ignoring Title Tags and Meta DescriptionsSchema Markup and Common SEO Mistakes help

Title tags and meta descriptions are HTML elements that provide information about your website to search engines and users. They play a critical role in helping search engines understand what your website is about and can influence whether or not users click on your website in search results. To avoid this mistake, make sure that each page on your website has a unique and descriptive title tag and meta description that accurately reflects the page’s content.

Failing to Optimize for Mobile

With over half of all internet traffic coming from mobile devices, optimizing your website for mobile is no longer optional. Mobile optimization involves designing your website to provide an optimal user experience on mobile devices. This includes using a responsive design, optimizing page speed, and making sure that your website’s layout is easy to navigate on small screens.

Not Having a Clear Site Structure

Having a clear and organized site structure is critical for both users and search engines. A clear site structure makes it easier for users to find the information they are looking for and helps search engines understand the hierarchy of your website’s content. To avoid this mistake, create a clear and logical site structure with categories and subcategories that accurately reflect your website’s content.

Schema Markup SEOForgetting About Internal Linking

Internal linking can help users navigate your website and discover related content, and it can also help search engines understand the relationship between your website’s pages. To avoid this mistake, make sure to include internal links within your content, pointing to other relevant pages on your website.

Ignoring Content Quality and Relevance

Creating high-quality, relevant content is essential for SEO success. Search engines prioritize websites that provide valuable and informative content to users. To avoid this mistake, make sure that your website’s content is well-written, informative, and provides value to your target audience.

Skipping Alt Tags on Images

Alt tags are HTML attributes that provide alternative text descriptions of images on your website. These descriptions are used by screen readers to assist visually impaired users in understanding the content of the image. Additionally, alt tags can also help search engines understand the context of your website’s images. To avoid this mistake, make sure to include descriptive alt tags for all images on your website.

Neglecting social media

While social media signals do not directly impact your website’s search engine rankings, social media can still play a critical role in your SEO strategy. By sharing your website’s content on social media, you can increase your website’s visibility, attract more traffic, and build backlinks. To avoid this mistake, make sure to include social media sharing buttons on your website’s content and actively promote your content on social media.

Focusing Too Much on Rankings

While ranking higher in search engine results pages is undoubtedly essential, it should not be the only focus of your SEO strategy. Instead, focus on creating valuable content, providing an excellent user experience, and building high-quality backlinks. Doing so will improve your website’s search engine rankings and build a strong online presence that attracts and retains users.

Conclusion

In summary, SEO is a critical aspect of any digital marketing strategy, but it can be challenging for those new to the field. By avoiding the common SEO mistakes we’ve discussed in this post, you can optimize your website and improve your search engine rankings.

Remember to prioritize keyword research, optimize your content for mobile devices, create a clear site structure, and focus on providing valuable content to your target audience. Doing so can build a strong online presence that attracts and retains users and ultimately drives business success.

 

Achieving Your Dreams Through Goal Setting

Goal setting meaning

Smart GoalsWell, another year bites the dust. Here we are in approaching a brand new year. I wonder how many of my readers resolved to ‘finally lose the weight they want to lose?’ Resolutions are great! The truth is, they hardly ever are carried through to a successful conclusion. Why is that?

Speaking from personal experience, when I used to make resolutions, I did so without a plan. Oh sure, I had a purpose in mind. What I didn’t have was a plan.

What I did have were a bunch of things I wished to accomplish without knowing whether I could or how to accomplish these wishes. What is my goal in life, setting goals and not thinking about wishes is the key.

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to get physically healthier, specifically to lose or gain weight. But, that is not enough. Having a long-term goal is only the beginning. Now, you need to set incremental goals. The incremental goals are like mile markers on the freeway. They focus on progress toward the ultimate goal.

In this hypothetical case, I would set my incremental goals at six pounds. So your first measurable goal is 174 pounds, the next is 168 pounds, and so on.

By setting incremental goals you are providing moments for celebration. You’ve reached a point on your journey that you decided is important. Now celebrate and resume focus on your next incremental goal.

Losing Weight and Goal Setting Meaning

Another problem is when so many people make New Year’s resolutions. They do so in the plural. They make a whole series of resolutions. I will lose weight, I will quit smoking, and I will get a new job. I will be nice to people. On and on goes the list. That is a recipe for failure. We should think in terms of a single 2023 New Year’s RESOLUTION.

There is nothing that will derail your plans as making too many of them at a time. One Goal at a time is all we can handle when making a lifestyle change. So, for the past few years, I made it a point to only focus on one change. When that goal is reached, I then focus on another. That way, my focus is not interrupted by the noise of other resolves.

Smart Goals 2And most of the time, it goes like this:

1. Their smart goals are fueled to the max for the first two weeks and they’re consistently going to the gym and eating healthy.

2. They break their gym streak because their days were too busy or they weren’t in the mood to go.

3. They become miserable with their diet.

4. They give up and go back to their usual routine.

5.  What is my goal in life

Whether it’s a physical health goal or not, most people fail to achieve their resolutions, and there could be several reasons why. Lack of discipline, not setting specific goals, having unrealistic expectations, etc.

Goal setting meaning

But yesterday, I watched a video where this guy talked about his weight loss journey, and how he lost 30 pounds in 10 months.

He went into things like his eating habits, his exercise routine, and how he kept himself motivated throughout his journey.

The last part is what I want to talk about because the advice he gave was so simple and so obvious, but you don’t see most people doing it.

It worked for him, and his appearance showed it. If I compare how the guy looked one year ago to what he looks like now, goal-setting is incredible.

What he said was this:

Instead of telling yourself, “This year, I want to eat healthier and exercise more,” you say, “I want to lose X number of pounds by Y date.”

Of course, this isn’t anything revolutionary. It follows the principles of SMART goals Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives is a good way to plan the steps to meet the long-term goals of your grant.

It helps you take your commitment from ideas to action:

SpecificSet real numbers for smart goals

MeasurableThe goal is trackable

AchievableThe goal is realistic

RelevantWhether or not the goal aligns with your overall objective and life goals

Time-basedSetting a deadline

This is something that was taught to us at some point during our dreaded schooling days, yet people tend to forget to set deadlines for themselves and understand the goal-setting meaning.

As I mentioned before, we humans procrastinate, and if we don’t have deadlines to meet, then nothing will get done.

Plus, it’s not less daunting to think about life goals examples and maintaining an exercise and diet routine for 10 months versus doing it for the rest of your life. And by the time you push through those 10 months, that new routine will become a habit.

Hopefully, that’ll be a good refresher for you and will help if, or when, you’re setting your 2023 smart goals.

 

Goal Setting
It means Pride, Satisfaction, Happiness, Celebration, Love, A Sense of Well Being …all the Joys of Living.

 

Planning the Perfect Holiday Party

Holiday Party Planning

So, you’ve been tasked with planning your Company’s Holiday party. Maybe you’ve been putting it off? Or, you’re just not sure where to begin? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Not only will your associates have a fun and meaningful experience, but you’ll look like a superstar for planning an awesome event!

Holiday Party PlanningCompany Holiday Party Planning- Let’s Get Started Because the holidays will be here SOON!

Decide on your Holiday Party Style! Questions to ask yourself:

  • Who is invited? Just the staff or spouses & family too? Will you be inviting any clients to the Holiday Party?
  • Is this an extravagant affair, or would something more laid back and relaxed suit your company better?
  • What’s your décor style? Will you pick a holiday party theme, such as Winter Wonderland or A Christmas Story?
  • When is the best time to have this party? Is it a luncheon in the middle of the week, or is a Saturday night better suited for your vision?  When taking Date & Time into account, make sure you consider this: Luncheons are great ways to ensure that staff will attend the party and they usually tend to be more budget-friendly.  Cocktail Receptions or Weekend Evening parties are a great way to get staff to unwind, however, they usually come with a heftier price tag.  Speaking of the price tag…
  • What is your budget? Knowing how much you have to spend is crucial to nail down before getting started.  Know what your limit is so that you can plan accordingly.  Don’t forget to consider that some items may come with Taxes, Services Charges, or Gratuities!

Let’s talk about The Venue!

  • Your budget will go a long way in determining what kind of venue you can afford. Keep in mind, that if you are late to get started planning, several venues may already be booked- especially for Friday & Saturday nights.  If you run into trouble, consider hosting your party on a Thursday night as an alternative.
  • Will it be at the Office? Your Boss’ house? A RestaurantHotelLoft?  Consider the Vibe you want the party to have- your venue may go a long way in creating that feeling.
  • Make sure your venue can accommodate the number of guests you are inviting, as well as the space you may need for entertainment, catering, bar services, and/or staff.

Food & Beverage:

  • What’s your food service style? This should be reflective of the general theme and feel of your party.  If it’s a more formal affair, look towards full-service catering with a sit-down dinner.  If this is a more casual & relaxed holiday party, lean towards food stations.  Take your budget, venue, and number of guests into consideration here, as all of these factors affect the type of catering services you provide.

Pick your menu! Keep it fun, keep it simple!  Remember, not everyone will have extravagant tastes- while you may love the idea of a Raw Bar– your budget and Guest list may not allow for this.  Select items that the majority of your guests will enjoy.  If you need help, ask your caterer for suggestions!  Sometimes catering companies will have already come up with a select few holiday menus- these can be the perfect solution for coming in on budget while ensuring the food pairs well with each other.

Holiday Party Planning 2Beverage Service:

  • Here’s another area that can prove to be costly for any event.  Decide ahead of time if you will have a Premium or Top-Shelf Bar Service, or if you will limit it to a few selections (like Whiskey, Vodka, and Tequila) along with Beer & Wine.  Another option is to serve Beer & Wine only while offering 1 or 2 Signature Cocktails.  You can jazz these up with fun garnishes and give them a catchy holiday name, such as “The Clark Griswold” or “Mistletoe Madness”.  Again, refer to your budget and the number of guests attending!  If you are hosting your Holiday Party at a venue where you can Bring Your Booze, refer to our article Beverage Cheat Sheet here for tips on quantities and service.  And, don’t forget to offer Sodas, Water, and Coffee for those guests who will not be participating in the adult beverages.

Holiday Party Planning for All

Holiday Entertainment:

  • What kind of entertainment will be provided? Consider your Holiday Party Style and/or theme- what will keep things festive and fun?  If it’s an evening party, will you need to hire a DJ or Band?  What other activities might you want to offer your guests?  Get creative!  You could have different stations and offer items such as Wine Tasting or Cigar Rolling.  Maybe you’d like to have a Selfie Photo Station or a photo booth?  Or, consider hiring a professional photographer for the evening.
  • Awards & Recognition: determine ahead of time if anyone will be honored at the holiday party. Consider who will be speaking and how long they will need the spotlight.  It is a great opportunity to highlight key players or teams for a job well done, as well as to recap the year and your company’s achievements.

Will you need to include any Rentals for the holiday party?

  • Consider if you need to rent any tables, linens, or chairs. Depending on your selected venue, they may already be included.
  • If you have the room available, consider adding a few Lounge Areas. You can rent sofas, chairs, coffee tables, and more to create seating pockets around the venue.  These create special areas for your guests to sit in and add a fun element to the décor and vibe of your holiday party.
  • What do you need for entertainment? A stage?  Dance floor? Speakers or audio system?  If hiring a DJ, make sure you confirm what they will be providing and bringing with them for your event.  In some cases, they may expect you to provide them with tables, chairs, or a sound system.
  • Décor items: will you be renting these from a shop or purchasing items for the event?
  • Catering items: make sure you check with your venue or caterer to confirm what items they are providing. Does this include plate ware, flatware, or glassware?  Does it include place settings or centerpieces & décor for your tables?  If they are not providing these you can rent them from a local shop.
  • A/V & Lighting- will you be playing a slideshow? Video?  Consider if you need a screen, TV monitor, etc.  Perhaps you’d like to add some special lighting around the room for an added effect?

YestBuy 4 Tier Cupcake Stand Acrylic Cupcake Tower

The Details!

Design your Venue Layout! We cannot stress how important this is!  Work with your event planner to determine the exact room layout.  You need to determine ahead of time where guests are going to sit, where the bar(s) will be, the entertainment, and more.  Your Event Planner will have the tools available to design the perfect room and give you printed copies for you and the other vendors.  There are so many factors to consider here- the number of guests, size of the room, and more- don’t leave this to chance, there’s nothing worse than having a cramped room or having to move the bar to the hallway because you didn’t plan your room design before the big day.


Invitations: How will you promote your holiday party? And more importantly, how will you make sure it’s well attended?  Whether it’s a small or large office party, it is imperative to get the word out!  This is a perfect avenue to use to invite guests and it’s easy to use.  Simply select your invitation, add the details, upload your guest list and send it!  Your invitees will have a fun holiday invitation sent right to their inbox, and the best part?  They can RSVP online, keeping it easy for you to see who is attending and who’s not.  For added measure, consider creating a holiday poster or flyer and hanging it in the break rooms.


  • Gifts: it is that time of year again!  Will your company be giving a little something to the staff at the party?  Employees love to feel appreciated, especially during the holidays.  Consider a little something they can take home.  Or, instead of a gift, perhaps a charitable contribution on the company’s behalf?

  • Create a Timeline! You need to plan ahead of time so that your event runs smoothly.  Lay out arrival and set-up times.  Make sure you include all Vendors, Guest arrival times, and tear down & clean up time after the event.  Other items to include in your timeline are when the bar opens/closes, food service times, and any entertainment and/or speakers that will be on-site during your holiday party.

  • Contact Sheet: Include a Vendor Contact sheet and have multiple copies printed out with you. You never know whom you are going to need to reach a moment’s notice and the last thing you want to be doing is digging through your bag or laptop file to try to find someone’s name & phone number.  Also, make sure you have an alternative contact & phone number for each of your vendors.  For example, if your Florist is running late and not answering her cell phone, make sure you can get ahold of someone else at the shop to ensure that your items are being delivered and handled according to the level of service you agreed upon.

The Week of:

  • Review Vendor Contracts
  • Confirm services, arrival times, services to be rendered, and clean up/tear down schedule
  • Confirm who your Point of Contact is on the day of your Holiday Party.
  • Review your Venue Layout, Timeline, and checklist
  • Lastly, Get ready to enjoy! By this time, you’ve put a lot of thought, time, and energy into planning the perfect Holiday Party for your company.  Take a moment, relax, and do something to treat yourself- you’ve earned it!

Follow these guidelines and your Company’s Holiday Party is sure to be a success. Wishing you good health and lots of love this holiday season.

 

 

Laws of Attraction

Laws of Attraction

Why are we attracted to beautiful faces? Maybe because of our own thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. This idea is known as the law of attraction, which states that we attract people and experiences into our lives that are in alignment with our thoughts and emotions. For example, if someone has a positive outlook and exudes happiness and confidence, they are more likely to attract people who are also positive and confident.

However, it is also important to remember that everyone has agency and free will, and they can choose to surround themselves with whomever they wish, regardless of their energy levels or beliefs.

Every time I’ve bought the laws of attraction up in a sales meeting, there has been more attention paid to what was being said. On the other hand, whenever it’s been scheduled in a seminar, the meeting has taken longer than anticipated. More questions and comments…

attract people

Here are what the highest earning professionals do that “you” may not be doing.  What are the 10 laws of attraction:

  1. They specialize in a certain area and become experts in it.
  2. They network with other successful professionals in the same field.
  3. They set clear and measurable goals and work towards them.
  4. They are constantly learning and adapting to new trends.
  5. They are persistent and don’t give up easily.
  6. They take calculated risks and know when to take advantage of opportunities.
  7. They are strategic and creative in their approach to problem-solving.
  8. They are consistently proactive and take action to accomplish their goals.
  9. They build relationships with clients and employers.
  10. They are confident, resilient, and have a positive attitude.

  • Focus Your Attention on the Other Person

Everyone wants to be the center of attention. Is that why are we attracted to certain people to focus all of our attention on another that may not be possible? However, great results can be achieved if you only make people feel special in your presence. Most people love to talk about themselves. So, ask questions that cause people to tell you about their passions and problems. If you do, it will enhance the possibility of them becoming attracted to you and you already know how that’s done. Try to understand others from their point of view.

Ask them about their children, careers, hobbies, what they like to read and what they do in their spare time. Whenever you get people to reveal their private world to you, they become more confident in your presence, and in most cases, you’ll be considered a terrific conversationalist – and consequently, be thought of as a very attractive person to be nearby.

  • Compliment People and Their Abilities

Pay people sincere compliments and then acknowledge the compliment. Here’s a way you can make it work for you. Say you compliment an associate about some new office furniture they just bought.

Most of us would probably say, “Your new furniture looks good and suits the office.” On the other hand, the professional that understands the power of complementing the individual would say something like this. “Your new furniture looks great and suits the office. I think you have a natural talent for decorating. But you’ve never taken decorating lessons, have you?”

Everyone can give a compliment, you attract what you are the law of attraction but only someone interested in people knows how to pass on a compliment that will make the hearer feel special.

  • Focus on the Things You Have in Common

Another laws of attraction way to attract people to you is to find the things you have in common with them. The areas of commonality between you and them could be based on work, family, sports, social and/or business contacts, hobbies, interests, and so on.

  • What makes a person attractive psychology

Attractiveness is a complex and multifaceted concept in psychology that can be influenced by a variety of factors, both internal and external. Some of the most common factors that contribute to a person’s perceived physical attractiveness include their facial symmetry, skin clearness, and facial structure. Additionally, personality traits such as confidence, humor, and kindness can also contribute to a person’s overall attractiveness.

Social and cultural factors, such as media influences and personal experiences, can also play a role in determining what traits and qualities are considered attractive. Ultimately, what makes a person attractive is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person.

That way there will be no need to go out of your way to acquire this information. You’ll be able to do this as part of your contract. Alternatively, you can simply ask whatever questions come to mind, or are relative to the conversation. But remember, don’t just listen – hear what they say.

  • Talk About Third Party Success Stories

Reasons why a common mistake too many salespeople make is to tell other people how successful they are. Generally, most people you’ve just met don’t care about your successes. Other people only care about how they can benefit from the short interlude with you. It is, for this reason, the top professional salespeople concentrate on third-party stories and successes.

You attract what you are the law of attraction They tell others what their company, product, or service did for their customers, how they helped them get over a hurdle, fixed a problem, or made those clients more successful.

  • What stories do you have that others would be pleased to hear about?
  • Can you convey the situation a third party was in before you helped them?
  • Can you describe their predicament in detail without giving away too many personal details?

why are we attracted to beautiful facesThen once you’ve done that, can you provide a good-luck story relating to your third-party reference as a result of doing business with you?

Here’s a hint:

Make a list of all those you have helped. Then physically write down those “before” and “after” stories. Refine, rewrite and perfect the story, then keep on refining, rewriting, and perfecting the story until you’re happy with it. You’ll be amazed at how powerful these personal stories sound, even to you.

The danger here is you could make the stories sound “too good to be true,” and when you do that, those stories will sound too overdone.

So, remember this, if it sounds amazing to you – it will most likely sound even more amazing to them. Be careful.

  • Don’t Just Listen – Hear What is Being Said

Most of us tend to give our listening skills little more than mere lip service. Just hearing another person’s words (when they’re talking to you) is not listening effectively. Most of us think it is, but a seasoned professional salesperson knows it’s not person you want to do business with.

Does a professional salesperson listen to this way? They do this by listening to someone without thinking of what question they’re going to ask next, not thinking about their agenda, and not focusing too heavily on making a sale at that point. They know and understand that when they just listen and focus all their attention on your prospect, the prospect will automatically be drawn to the seller because the way you listen to the answer appears to the prospect to be both genuine and intense.

Do it right, and you’ll find an exchange of dialogue will take place that is both rich and engrossing. Then when that happens, the communication between two people causes an irresistible attraction.

  • The Most Important Person on This Earth

America’s motivational father, Earl Nightingale, used to say, “If you want to be successful, treat every person you come into contact with as the most important person on earth.” Modern-day American motivator, Zig Ziglar says, “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” True sales professionals, and those who understand this one point, focus all their energy, attention, and care on the person they’re with. Also, read Grant Cardone’s Seven 10X Rules for Success to get you to success!

They’ve learned to take themselves out of the equation and give others unbelievable attention without any hint of an ulterior motive or manipulation. They know we respond favorably to those that make us feel special in their presence. They also understand that to the people who go out of their way to make us feel extremely important, we will give them our respect, our friendship, our knowledge, and our business – and we will do it for life, or as long as they keep making us feel extremely important.

  • Offer to Be an Information Resource

Here’s another valuable hint overlooked by far too many within the selling profession, online eCommerce. No, better still let’s call it one of the most valuable selling tools available to you to attract attention to yourself, start applying law of attraction techniques. So why isn’t it used more often? It’s because it usually takes more effort to make this one resource work than the majority of the other resources available to salespeople.

That’s why then true sales professionals approach it systematically. You attract what you are not what you want meaning.

Once a salesperson knows something about their potential prospects, they see ways to provide information of value to them based on that something they have been made aware of. What they hone in on could be articles relating to their prospect’s hobbies, emails about things they have in common, or websites about ways to help them improve one or more aspects of their business. It could even be information related to their community, their children, or their other infatuations.

Top salespeople know that their target audience will appreciate hearing from them when they provide information the prospect can use. So, here’s a very important hint. Do not try and do any selling whatsoever when you first contact the prospect can just provide them with the information they ask for. When you do this, chances are that they will come to you when the time is right and that’s the power of this one point.

  • Send Your Good Customers Business

A personally recommended referral that could lead to a potential sale is the one thing that no one in business will ever say no to. No one in their right mind will ever turn it down – especially if it’s a good referral. The salesperson that finds business for their prospects is very likely to build a good relationship, and because of this, they will always take your calls.

They’ll even be glad to have lunches with you, and they will be more likely to give you more referrals regularly. That’s right. They’ll reciprocate by giving you their business and pass on even more referrals simply because you first sent them referrals that they could work with.

Reasons why we develop a strong personal foundationwhy are we attracted to beautiful faces

Why do I attract so much attention? you attract what you are law of attraction brings you to and top-end sales professionals belief that they have either learned to develop or can naturally acquire a special something that attracts others to them.

In fact, to outsiders, it’s considered to be a kind of special energy that either draws attention to them or, at the very worst, repels others away from them but present is always perfect physical attraction does not necessarily lead to a good relationship.

Many of the sales experts working in the training sector tend to call this a “Strong Personal Foundation.” And that foundation becomes a personal substructure for those sellers to succeed at whatever they put their minds to.

The ones who possess this Strong Personal Foundation,” are the ones that know how to instinct will “balance” the key areas of their life, including health, money, environment, family, friends, fun, recreation, career, and personal and spiritual growth. Moreover, many of the ones that have learned to develop this “Strong Personal Foundation” tend to do so by grading each of the above areas of ‘balance’ between one and ten. A ten grade denotes excellence.

Any mark below ten is then worked on until the necessary “balance” (aspiring to be a 10) is achieved in all of the other sectors previously graded to be out of balance.

  • Specialist Knowledge

It is a fact that every top professional in every profession works hard at being a specialist in what he or she does. The top income earners in every field of endeavor are specialists at what they do. Because of the hard work that they undertake to become a specialist, they become the best, the most in-demand, the highest paid, and the most sought-after individuals because of their specialized knowledge.

Top professionals understand the psychology of attraction. Start working hard at knowing more than others in their chosen fields. They understand that if they acquire expert knowledge about something that people want to know about, that can make them particularly attractive in the field in life they have chosen to work in.

What are you good at doing presently, or what are you willing to get good at doing very shortly? Are you prepared to become even better at what you are doing now and specialize in your field of work? The fact is, the better you get, the more others will be attracted to you, and the better you get at what you do, your clients, peers, and superiors will be attracted to you and that includes your opponents as well.

At the very least you attract what you are the law of attraction, they will know about you and how well respected you have become in your craft. To have others become aware of you, all you have to ensure is they know that you exist and that you have the skills they need.

You attract who you are meaning, together with the other skills you have acquired to attract people and make them want to do business with you.

 

This Article is by Peter Collins

 

 

Taking Steps to Enhance Air Quality

Improve Air Quality

Whenever an interior designer wants to liven up a room, decorating with living things is one of the best ways to do it. Plants are typically the first decorative choices to accessorize an office because they bring a certain sense of vitality to an otherwise industrial look. However, what some interior designers may not realize is that desk plants are extremely healthy for office environments too!

Cities are full of terrible pollutants that can take a toll on health, and plants provide beautiful air purifiers. If you’re looking to liven up your office space, and feel a little healthier as well, here are five great plants for the home and office that may have you breathing a little easier!

Spider Plant

Spider Plant-Plants that Improve Air Quality

 

Spider plants are great for improve air quality in your home/office environments in particular because they bring tons of life to a room with very little care. This plant does well in hanging baskets or pots with lots of rich soil and can survive infrequent watering. It prefers bright sunlight but can thrive well under artificial lighting for office workspaces too.

Researchers at the University of Hawaii performed studies on this little beauty that proved it as a great plant for cities. They found that spider plants are one of the top leafy greens for removing harmful VOCs from the air indoors. As a result, people around this plant breathe easier and have fewer toxins in their system to impair cognitive function. And best of all, they feel better. For all these reasons and more, it is the perfect plant for those that work high on skyscrapers!

Peace Lily

peace-lily-Plants that Improve Air QualityIf you want a plant that looks just as beautiful as the rest of your office, say hello to the gorgeous peace lily! This pretty plant looks best sitting on the corners of great corner desks for office use while it’s young, and looks just as elegant in a corner of its own as it grows bigger. Studies by the University of Minnesota, Penn State, a University of Technology in Taiwan, and even NASA and the U.S. military have all produced results that have proven the peace lily’s extraordinary air cleansing abilities.

Like the spider plant, it is adept at removing harmful VOCs from the air. It does well in nutrient-rich potting soil with loose dirt and plenty of drainages. For those that want frequent flowerings, this plant requires a bit more watering for those that can handle the task!

Lemon Balm

balm-Plants that Improve Air Quality

Stuck in an office that’s prone to mold or other smelly smells? Then the lemon balm is the desk plant for you! This aromatic plant provides all the air-cleansing qualities you would want and even puts off a wonderful perfume all its own. As you may have guessed, lemon balm smells a lot like lemons, and studies have shown that it is great for improving mood. They do wonders in office environments that don’t get a whole lot of sunlight, making them ideal accents in stylish cubicles for office environments.

Just plant this lovely little shrub in a size-appropriate pot and water it frequently for an aromatic office that everyone within a whiff of will surely appreciate.

Golden Pothos

Pothos-Plants that Improve Air Quality

In another NASA study, the golden pothos proved to be a top air cleanser alongside the peace lily. This pretty little plant boasts adorable heart-shaped leaves that compliment modern executive desks for home office use with ease! Hardworking moms and dads are sure to love it, and they make great gifts for holidays. They thrive beautifully in low-light environments, making them perfect for both home and corporate office environments.

 They prefer slightly dry soil and are a little bit root-bound, so don’t worry too much about proper care. All they ask is an appropriately sized pot or hanging basket, and they’re ready to get to work cleaning your office air!

 

 

Gardenia

gardenia-Plants that Improve Air QualityA grandmother’s favorite for a reason, gardenias are perfect for gardens and offices alike. According to research from Rutgers, this beautiful little plant makes an excellent air cleaner and improves your mood as well. Just a few whiffs of its wonderful scent will have you swooning. Its classic look and brain-stimulating qualities make it the perfect plant to sit on the edge of pretty glass desks for computer use in either home or public office environments. With moderate sunlight and a bit of fair care, your gardenia may even last your whole career as they can live for up to twenty-five years!

Creating a Living Wall in Your Office

A living wall is all the rage these days, for decorating both home and office. These design elements are not only beautiful, but they also improve indoor air quality and the mindset and mood of those exposed to them. Although you may perceive it as a new concept, hanging gardens and green walls have been used since ancient times to beautify and delight. In the office, these dramatic design elements not only serve as conversation pieces but also improve the mood and job satisfaction of employees while cooling the environment and filtering the air.

What Is a Living Wall?

Living WallA living wall is simply a vertical arrangement of plant materials, structured and mounted in such a way that it appears the plants are growing from the wall itself. Although they can be installed both indoors and outdoors, experts have discovered many measurable benefits from adding a living wall indoors, especially in a commercial or office setting.

The wall of plants can be virtually any size and configuration, and it can include any species of vegetation you prefer, although some may be harder to care for than others. The right way to design and install yours depends on your space and the look you hope to achieve.

Design the Armature

Once you have identified the place you hope to hang your green wall, verify that the wall or ceiling of choice can support a heavy structure. When fully loaded, you can expect your arrangement to weigh approximately 5 pounds per square foot. Secure anchors are crucial because should the arrangement fall, someone could be seriously hurt by its weight.

You can purchase pre-fabricated frames, designed specifically to hold your plantings, or you can make one yourself. The Internet is full of ideas and plans for living walls of all sizes and shapes. Some people prefer their arrangement to float, in essence, on the wall. Others prefer to utilize a horizontal base below the vertical plant wall, which can be designed to coordinate or add additional design elements while supporting the heavy arrangement.

Determine Your Plant Layout

One interior designer recommends that you think of your plant layout as planting a living picture. To look right, your plants must be tightly grouped so they all run together, leaving the observer no glimpse of the underlying structure, lest it ruins the illusion.

Whatever plant species you select, make sure they are compatible in terms of their needs for light, water, fertilization, and care. Combining succulents and ferns might look amazing, but as one needs lots of water and the other very little, chances are good that neither will survive.

Consider also how much time and attention you and your staff have to give your living installation. If the wall isn’t tended to regularly for the removal of dead leaves and foliage, it will start to look ragged in no time. Many interior designers recommend using succulents exclusively. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, almost all of which are striking to look at. They require little water, and thanks to their cactus-like nature, you don’t need to remove dead foliage. Finally, consider how your wall will be watered.

When you get it mounted and later learn that water runs out onto the floor, you’ll have a big problem with your hands.

A living wall will enhance any indoor environment, but especially an office where it will be viewed and enjoyed by everyone. Consider contacting a professional interior or landscape artist to build and install yours.

Because they are experts, they will ensure that the right species are included, that the living wall is safely mounted, and that they will care for it regularly, to ensure that you never need to be concerned with watering, feeding, or cleaning up. Contact an interior landscaper in your area today, and get started on your living wall!

 

Working from Home: The New Normal

working from home (WFH)The workforce is now remote 

So many people are now in the workforce from home (WFH) 100% of the time. Hopefully, if this is the case for you, you can maintain results and productivity and stay positive during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.  While a lot of us are used to living the entrepreneur life from a home office, it’s still a big adjustment to have to self-isolate and stop all face-to-face interactions with coworkers and clients. 

I encourage you to use this time to take a closer look at your overall business goals, focus on your health (both physical and mental) and self-care, and enjoy some family time at home. I think many small business owners are having to pivot their marketing strategy, and what they do when the coronavirus passes could look quite different from what they did before. 

Team Communication Tools 

This is probably the biggest WFH product decision you’ll have to make. Your team needs a reliable and easy-to-use tool that lets them instantly message coworkers. The right one for you depends on your business needs and challenges, team size, and budget.

  1. You may have heard of Slack. This tool gives you the ability to create channels around multiple topics and invite users. From marketing content ideas to social media tactics to office dog photos, your team can create relevant channels for easy chat and collaboration.

It also integrates with many useful tools, including Outlook Calendar, Twitter, HubSpot, and Salesforce, so you can see what’s going on at all times right in the Slack app (no need to click in and out of your daily calendar or Twitter feed, for example). There are SO MANY fun and creative emojis you can use too, making remote messaging in a challenging time like this a little more lighthearted. 

Another popular platform is Discord. Popular with gamers, this voice, video, and text tool aren’t just for talking to coworkers, but for finding like-minded communities and new friends.  You can create “servers” and “channels” for specific topics, similar like you do for Slack channels. While Slack has more business integrations, Discord has voice channels, so you can easily chat with team members. Discord also lets you set user roles and permissions.

Flock is a cloud-based team communication tool with video and audio calling, screen sharing, text chat, integration with other business applications, and more. You can tag colleagues in comments and to-do lists, upload documents, images, and videos, and set reminders and due dates. Polls, code snippet sharing, and group discussions are available, and it integrates with other apps such as Trello, GitHub, Google Drive, and Asana.

Team Collaboration Tools

Managing Your Workforce Remotely 7Your workforce is now remote. Your employees need to be able to share their work, whether they’re creating a marketing strategy or editing a press release. Here are a few that might fit your small business needs.

  • G/Suite is a Google product that’s made up of cloud computing, productivity, and collaboration tools, software, and products. In one suite of tools, it offers email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation decks, shared calendars, cloud storage, and more.

You can comment and make suggestions on specific documents through Google Sheets and Docs, edit documents online simultaneously and collaborate on projects and documents. It’s easy to give users permission to specific files.

  • Evernote: This is more than a note-taking app. Evernote helps you capture, prioritize and share ideas, track projects, and to-do lists. I find it super helpful for note-taking but also as a sort of “digital filing cabinet” that simplifies organization.

There’s a free, basic, and business package; compare your options here. 

CRM stands for “Customer Relationship Management,” and CRM tools help you with things like inbound lead management, sales tracking, social tracking, and newsletter delivery. Here are three to consider:

  • MailChimp is an all-in-one marketing platform with tools to create everything from emails to postcards. They have a great selection of templates to choose from that can then be further modified to suit your brand. Their intuitive interface and thorough reporting are great, but things can get expensive as your subscriber list or number of emails increase. You can compare their different plans here. 
  • Constant Contact has always been a big rival with MailChimp being the brand name in email marketing. It’s a huge company and a great option if Facebook is a big part of your online marketing strategy. Constant Contact has an email option that is designed so users can easily share your newsletter on Facebook. 

working from home (WFH) 2This option can be considered the most social media-friendly and has all the major features of the others noted. If your online marketing involves Hootsuite (you can integrate this into Hootsuite) and you focus your efforts on gaining traction on social media then this is a great newsletter tool for you.

AWeber is an extremely popular option and is recommended by many professional marketing companies. It gives you five plans to choose from and a long list of features such as unlimited email marketing campaigns, follow-ups, lists, and Auto Responders.

Many people believe their Auto Responder platform is superior to other companies, allowing businesses to automate the process of delivering personalized emails to customers on a schedule.

Project Management Tools

A collaborative task management tool lets everyone track and manage all of their projects. Think of it as an online scheduler, taskmaster, and collaboration tool to manage your team’s workflows. 

Asana is one of the leading tools and gets a lot of positive feedback. It allows everyone on your team to follow the whole workflow of a project in an easy visual tool. You’ll always know where your team is at and who’s responsible for what and when.

From daily reminders on a task that’s due, to the ability to easily add collaborators or assign teammates a sub-task of a project, Asana makes it simple to see what everyone’s day, week, and month looks like (but you can easily move things around if plans change).

Monday.com is a pretty simple, intuitive visual team management tool (it’s a project management platform). It runs processes, workflows, and projects in one digital workspace. Visually, it looks the same as a collection of very customized spreadsheets, in which every team member can log their tasks and update them with status reports and other relevant information.

That means that every person can see all active tasks and keep count of their progress. Team members can work on multiple projects without getting lost by using Monday’s weekly overview. The workflow can be customized just about any way you want it to communicate priority, what’s done, not done, and so on. The colorful designs and big buttons don’t hurt either!

Social Media Management Tools

Managing Your Workforce Remotely 99Many small businesses will already have a social media management tool set up. A social media management tool allows you to manage all of your accounts from one dashboard, which saves you both time and frustration. These tools share remote work statistics and content at the best possible times throughout the day, so your followers and fans see your updates more often. It’s a smarter and more efficient way to schedule and share your social media posts.

The best part about these tools is the built-in analytics system, which will give you a glimpse into what’s performing well, and when your social media posts are making the most impact.

Here are two social media management tools we use:

  • Buffer shows your scheduled posts and analytics (how in-depth those analytics get depends on the plan you choose). Many small business owners choose Buffer because of its sleek, clean interface that’s easy for beginners to get the hang of.
  • I find that while Buffer is great for less demanding social media needs, Hootsuite is where it’s at if you want to see your timelines, replies, and more across all your social networks. Both Buffer and Hootsuite offer free and paid plans, so you can always try them out and see which one feels like a better fit for your small business. 

How do we make this scenario work?

With the advancements in technology that we have seen in recent years, together with demand from employees for more flexible hours, it’s not surprising that we have seen the rise of the remote worker.

While such workers certainly make a certain amount of business sense, they do have their disadvantages – not least the difficulty of keeping them motivated throughout the day and getting them to buy into your firm’s ideas and vision.

Here are three great tips to help ensure that your remote workers are as productive as can be.

  • Invest in conference call software

Your workers not sharing an office with you can make it trickier to keep them informed of changes to their schedule or communicate difficult ideas. While you could use email, not all remote workers even check their inboxes regularly.

This is where Skype or other video calling software can come in useful, enabling quicker and more intuitive communication and collaboration. Or what about signing up for a Google Drive account so that you can more easily share and work on documents with your team members?

The main advantages of an IP telephony solution include:

  • Hosted VoIP is becoming the way of business today.
  • Reduced call charges/fees
  • No longer a PBX maintenance contract
  • No cost to upgrade the most unexpected
  • Free calls between users all over the world
  • Immediately change the settings directly in the browser
  • Listen to the messages on the move
  • Billing is flexible & can be based on a single user or a whole site
  • Add another user basically & effortlessly, without the trouble of updating
  • All functions & parameters to be with you & the phone method, ideal for mobile offices at no additional cost
  • Wherever you are, you still appear to call the office
  • Trust your remote workers

Hiring a team to work from home can have its disadvantages – not least an inability to closely monitor how much work they are doing throughout the day. However, if you bombard them with calls and emails asking for a progress report, you may find that their productivity drops still further.

Ultimately, you will need to be able to trust your remote workers to get their work done while understanding that they are not confined to rigid 9-5 working hours. When you allow your remote workers to get on with their tasks, a great number of them will reward you with very high-quality work.

  • Insist on meeting up

Many workers enjoy the quieter, less disruptive environment that remote working affords them. However, they may also be surrounded by distractions if they are working from home, and their concentration levels may dip as a result.

So, why not invite your remote team to an in-person catch-up? This is a great chance for everyone to get to know each other, discuss any issues and collaborate on ideas. Not only that, but it also shows that you care about them as their employer, and value them as a part of your company. Such meetings could therefore truly re-focus and inspire your remote team.

And while it’s not a tool your entire workforce might use, I’m liking Money Minder Online software during these uncertain times. It not only gives you a place to track your spending, but you also get insights into your spending habits, and you can look ahead to improve your cash flow, clear your debt, and start saving for your big goals.

 

Harnessing Mental Endurance

Mental Toughness

Through the years I have had the chance to coach many professionals and one thing I can tell you without reservation is the ideal players were all mentally tough. It’s a tough concept to describe until you see it, but it’s apparent when you see a player which has it.Mental Toughness 13

To explain my point, not every one of the best athletes gets it. Not, every big-league player is mentally tough and many never reach the large leagues which have great mental toughness. It’s not about ability, I’ve coached many great athletes that didn’t possess a clue about being mentally tough and would fold under pressure. They might work well when there was nothing at risk, however, when this game is at balance, or even the competition was tough, they often failed.

However, I’ve witnessed many players with average skills, but mentally tough, perform in such a way nobody thought they might perform. A clutch hit, a vital bunt, and an excellent defensive play that stopped a rally, mentally tough players complete the job. Actually, the higher the pressure, the greater they perform.

Something I’ve arrived at and understood with experience is the fact that mental toughness will not be an inborn DNA trait, but instead one which is developed with time and contact with adverse conditions. Preparation for mental toughness starts with experiences at an early age. Parents can enjoy a vital role to start the entire process of training mental toughness, however, they need assistance as you go along.

A disciplined educational system with higher expectations and good classroom rules, together with tough, but fair coaches (or mentors in alternative activities) having a positive mindset, is important to creating a child mentally, whether or not they are a sports athlete usually are not.

 

Mental Toughness 000

This is among the lot of reasons why all children need to engage in balanced organized extracurricular activities at an early age: Karate, gymnastics, ballet, music, scouts, children, and youth activities at church or youth sports will play a role in starting to instill the discipline and structure that is required to build up mentally.

Notice I said start to play a role. It requires some time and preparation.

Growth and development of mental toughness (and leadership skills) are other reasons why athletes have to be involved with an effective training course when they may be 14 or fifteen years old.

A training course not just helps you to build power, strength, and agility, but is essential in developing mentally. Players ought to be accountable to some mentor (trainer, coach, etc.) along with the camaraderie and pressure of the small peer group, even when it’s only a couple of others.

In case a player is involved with a training course sooner than 14 or 15, it ought to be with regards to agility and speed training, together with teaching the correct approaches to strength conditioning without weights. Before any training course begins, please talk to your child’s physician throughout their annual physical, as the creation of each child is different.

Defining Mental Toughness

Mental Toughness-10

Mental toughness is having the psychological advantage that enables someone to perform at peak maximum effort and efficiency throughout the demands which are put on them during training, practice, or competition. Specifically, once the demands are greatest or even the conditions become adverse.

Whenever the requirements would be the greatest occurs when the characteristics of mental toughness would be the best shown.

A few of the many characteristics which are evident whenever a player is a mentally tough include:

– Self-confidence

– Self-motivation

– Focus

– Concentration

– Composure

– Calmness

– Poise

– Self-control

– Positive Energy

– Determination

– Persistence

– Leadership

Please be aware, this doesn’t imply that the result is a win, oftentimes these attributes can display the most throughout a loss, especially a detailed loss to some tough opponent or during adverse conditions. But with time along with careful training, the mental toughness of skilled players concerns to light in championships won.

Developing Mental Toughness

To be mentally tough you must practice attributes that lead to mental toughness. If only there have been an equation to adhere to, however, there is not. It requires some perseverance underneath the right leadership to build up mental toughness. Parents, educators, coaches, as well as other mentors, should be systematically active in the training process.

Few athletes require the amount of mental toughness, brute strength, and physical prowess that boxers take into the ring for every fight. Boxing is an extremely tough sport on every level, but it can also be one of the most rewarding.

While taking a beating on the canvas is a challenge best left to the pros, the average person can enjoy tons of health benefits from some time in the ring without the repeated right hooks to the face. Let’s look at four reasons why boxing gyms should replace your regular gym in the quest to improve your health, strength, and mental fortitude.

Mental Toughness 6

Your time in the world is just as mental as it is physical. This sport forces you to push yourself through fatigue, endure pain, and dish out a few solid hits along the way. By pushing you past your limits and giving you valuable self-defense techniques, fighting can bolster your confidence in daily life. Succeeding in the ring requires courage, Zen-like concentration, and self-esteem.

Sparring with a trainer or partner at the gym allows you to summon these key mental qualities in a fight scene. Once you’ve learned to exercise these traits in the ring, they’ll become more available to you during the trials of day-to-day living.

If you’re looking for a new style of exercise that will shape you up mentally and physically, it may be time to abandon the treadmills and free weights to step inside the ring. Seek out local boxing gyms that offer the services, equipment, and training programs you need to start floating like a butterfly and stinging like a bee.

Also, it requires failure and the opportunity to recover. Lots of people develop mental toughness with the experience of failure. Good parents usually do not want their kids to fail and I also realize that. These days, way too many blame others for your failure.

Athletes face a lot of challenges in their careers, whether it is new opponents or their private limitations. Developing mental training, however, can make it easier so they can discover the following:

Rugby-Mental Toughness

Better self-esteem – Performance anxiety management – Emotional control – Positive thinking – Better focus – Better self-assurance – The capability to manage challenges and obstacles better.

 

  1. Goal setting

Setting goals gives a sports athlete something to appear to and help. It can be what leads the mental training skill further down their list known as motivation. It also encourages positive thinking, increased energy, better self-esteem along with growth just as one athlete and person.

  1. Focus & Concentration

What this means is keeping the mind in the present. Everybody is allowed the rare wandering thought, however, when looking at competitive moments it could change everything. It can cause hesitation or distraction. Instead, discover ways to keep the mind inside the moment and so on thoughts products you plan to complete next instead of the mistakes that have already happened and should not be changed.

  1. Imagery & Visualization

Imagery requires over to be able to place a picture in your thoughts. It’s about re-creating moments or pulling on memories to create a new and vivid scenario in your head. This requires that you be much better aware of your surroundings, yourself and just what you happen to be capable of doing. In the long run, it could improve your skill, success, and assurance when under pressure and enable you better overcome your emotions and reactions.

  1. Relaxation & Stress Management

Relaxation could be the opposite of stress as well as for those moments when you don’t have time to relax, obtaining a strategy to manage your stress threshold and concentrate that energy elsewhere is going to help in the long run. Your ultimate challenge with stress is muscle tension and the way it might clutter your head. Learn how to focus the mind, banish fear with full confidence and relax tensed muscles with the right techniques.

  1. Self-Confidence

There’s a lot to get said regarding the success of the confident athlete. If you are that certain of your abilities, there is no room for doubt. Instead, you’ve got a stronger wish to succeed and to strive further along with your goals and it changes the way you think, focus, and react. Confidence-building exercises are usually a great source along with other great skills.

  1. Motivation

An athlete’s success will depend on his degree of motivation from both an inner desire in addition to outside factors. Finding out how to take your desires and set these phones use to inspire you might help enhance a player’s performance and overall motivation.

  1. Self-talk & Positive Thinking

Your thoughts have a strong relation to the way we perform physically. A sports athlete who thinks negatively or nit-picks their mistakes and flaws internally isn’t any good at competing. Some could imagine that pointing out the negative is a superb motivator, however, exercising positive thought can better motivate improvement and success.

  1. Flow in Sport

What this means is something beyond concentration while focusing. It must employ immersing yourself inside the moment and from the sport itself. This is simply not some abstract and fantastical notion. Instead, flow in sports is a situation that wants the mind and body to be in sync to try and do the most beneficial and effortless performance. Learning these kinds of flow by learning how to control your mind can cause incredible performance.

­­­­­Mental Toughness 4

Parents are quick to blame the teacher for problems in class or perhaps a coach once the child will not be excelling in an activity. Mental toughness is unable to be developed properly when blaming others. The contrary is the situation.

 

 

 

 

Harness the Power of Video in Email Marketing

Use Video in Email Marketing

Use Video in Email MarketingIt’s not news that video is at the forefront of marketing these days.

From creating videos for your website to hosting Facebook Live sessions, this marketing tool has transformed from a nice-to-have to a must-have if you want to effectively engage with your audience and build a loyal following who will be more likely to purchase from you.

 

Video-based marketing is a great way to stand out from the multiple messages people get in their inboxes every day, not to mention how effective it is on social media.

This article focuses on how to use video in email marketing. Keep reading for some technical tips on using video in your emails, and advice on the creative aspects for some inspiration.

How To Use Video in Email Marketing

I’ve talked about using video many times in the past, but in case you’re still not convinced or haven’t thought to use video in your email marketing efforts, it’s time to pay close attention.

According to a study from B2B Decision Labs, when people are going through their emails, they tend to be in a negative emotional state, but when study participants watched a video email, it decreased their negative feelings and transitioned them to more of a neutral emotional state. So, when people are going through their inboxes, and they come across a video email, they’re going to feel better than they did reading through all those text emails, and they’ll be more likely to interact with it.

Indeed, a survey from Vidyard showed just that. More than 70 percent of respondents said video emails receive more opens, clicks, and responses than text-based emails.

The Benefits of Video Marketing. It saves time. You can create short, engaging pieces of video much more quickly than it will take you to write an 800-word blog. It also gives info to your viewer in an easy-to-understand way. It can help with SEO. Your Google search ranking can improve if your footage is viewed and shared by enough people. It’s cost-effective. You don’t need CGI effects or animation to make something great. A video can be much more affordable to produce than a blog or ad. It grabs attention. Especially when added to your newsletter, a video captures your audience’s attention and compels them to want to watch.


technical-Use Video in Email MarketingThe Technical Part of Video Email Marketing

When it comes to using video in your email marketing, there are several technical aspects to consider.

You have to make sure your videos are mobile-friendly and confirm that they’re compatible with as many email services as possible, and if you do run into issues, you have to come up with a workaround.

That being said, before we get into the fun stuff, let’s go over some of the more technical details of using video in your emails.

Ensure Your Videos Will Play

Before you start brainstorming ways to use video in your emails, you need to know how they’ll play in different email clients, or whether they’ll play at all.

There are over 30 major email clients, including Gmail, Microsoft Outlook, Apple Mail, and Yahoo Mail, and some of them don’t support the requirements for using email with video.

Traditionally, marketers would use HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language) to code HTML video directly into an email, but recipients with certain email clients aren’t able to play it. Many popular email providers will only show a fallback image, and your marketing message will be lost in the crowd.

Fortunately, some of the popular services make it easy to share across all providers by using a screen capture image of your video and linking it to the original content on your blog, YouTube, Vimeo, or similar sites.

This gives the appearance of there being an actual video in your email and avoids technical issues with your email provider. Instead of having to learn HTML5, there are also third-party services that can create a video snippet for you to include right in the body of your newsletter.

Check out Playable to embed a short video in your next newsletter. Playable will replace the video with an image of your choice if the email service provider doesn’t support the video technology.

No matter what tool you use, it’s crucial to test your campaign before you send it out. You’ll need to have accounts on all of the popular email platforms so you can see how your footage works on each of them.

Use Video in Email Marketing9Sound like a lot of work? Maybe you’d prefer to leave the heavy lifting to a professional marketing company that’s been helping clients create successful email campaigns since 2003.

Make Sure You’re Mobile According to data from Constant Contact, approximately 60 percent of the emails sent from their service are opened on mobile devices. This shows just how important it is to ensure you’re keeping mobile devices in mind when using videos in your email marketing.

Fortunately, email marketing services like Mailchimp and Constant Contact let you test and see how your messaging will look before you send it out.

Still, it’s important to keep the file size as low as possible so the video doesn’t need to buffer to start playing. Mobile devices don’t have the fastest download speed.

A good tip is to take a 10-second snippet of your video to use in the newsletter. That snippet can then link to the full feature on your blog.

Also, always make sure the auto-play is off, especially on mobile. Most people don’t appreciate having something start playing (often noisily) as they sit in the office or on a bus; they prefer to click the play button themselves.

Use Video in Email Marketing2The Creative Aspects of Video Email Marketing Now that we’ve got the technical stuff out of the way, let’s look at how you can create content that will engage your viewers and increase the traffic on your website.

You need a plan with clear objectives or else you’re just sending content out into the world and hoping it will be seen and loved. Why are you creating this campaign? Are you trying to generate leads? Looking to boost brand awareness? Aiming to increase your followers? Once you’ve identified your objectives and goals, then you can start thinking about the actual emails, and the content you want to produce.

As mentioned, the best way to do this is to host the full-length video in a blog post, landing page, or on a video-sharing site like YouTube, and then incorporate a small snippet of that video in your email marketing campaign, which links to the full-length version.

Tips For Using Video in Email Campaigns

  1. Use the word “video” in your subject line Using the word “video” in your subject lines can encourage people to open your emails. In a study from Super Office, simply adding the word “video” to the subject line increased their open rates by six percent. That might not sound like a lot, but considering how many marketing emails end up in the trash bin, it’s a pretty big deal.
  2. Choose the right format There are some very simple and affordable ways to incorporate video into your marketing emails. For instance, in the survey from Vidyard I referenced above, sales professionals were asked about three video email formats and which ones receive the highest response rate. These formats included screen shares, selfie-style videos, and hybrids of the two.

Use Video in Email Marketing7More than half of respondents said the hybrid-style videos got the highest response rates, 31 percent said the selfie-style videos performed best, and only 15 percent said screen shares got the most responses. This should give you some things to consider when choosing a format, and it’s also good to know that all these videos are easy and inexpensive to produce.

  1. Showcase your products Whether you’re looking for something economical or extravagant, video email campaigns are an incredibly effective way to show off your products. If you can only afford to do a screen share or selfie-style video, you can still do a great job of highlighting what you have to offer. But if you have the budget for something more elaborate, it can be that much more effective.
  2. Emphasize your values Aside from showing off your products, another way to use video in your email marketing is to emphasize what you stand for, and what you support. Mailchimp did a great job of this by partnering with Reese Witherspoon’s media company, Hello Sunshine, to create a series of videos celebrating female entrepreneurs.

The videos have nothing to do with the service Mailchimp offers, but they help to generate interest in the brand by underscoring its values.

  1. Make tutorials Your product or service solves a problem, so how can you show this to your clients? There are many ways to accomplish this. You can make a traditional tutorial or how-to video where you simply explain how to use your product or service, or you can take more of a lifestyle branding angle where you give consumers a short explanation of how you can improve their lives.

mobile-phone-Use Video in Email MarketingAlso known as an explainer video, this format is loved by both marketers and consumers alike. A survey from Wyzowl found this format is the one most commonly used by marketers today, and 96 percent of respondents said they’ve watched an explainer video to learn about a service or product.

So, whether you’re a life coach shooting some footage while you’re on vacation, or a wellness provider offering viewers a glimpse of your dinner prep process, get creative and get shooting!

 

Email marketing with video can substantially increase your open rates, engagement, leads, and sales.

However, not every email should contain one. If you start using this tactic every time you send out a newsletter, subscribers might stop paying attention. Using video in newsletter campaigns is a great way to stand out from the crowd, but don’t bombard people with videos and neglect your other tactics in the process.

 

Property Investment Strategies for Beginners

Property InvestmentProperty Investment

Have you considered real estate investing? If so, now is the right time. More and more people are leaping and investing in the rental market today as a way to supplement their income, or as a business venture in its own right. There are several things to consider, as with any large investment, but it can be a really good way to make significant returns.

Property Investment locations are one of many things to consider when renting out a single home, or when undertaking large-scale property management. My city Atlanta, for example, offers a lot to potential investors because of its continued popularity with renters. Although, even if you have already picked out the perfect location, it’s important to know the pros and the cons before deciding if it’s the right move for you.

When deciding where to invest in a property many variables need careful consideration. Atlanta, Georgia is an up-and-coming investment hub, and given that property management in Metro Atlanta is well supported with excellent services, it is a location worth investigating.

The job market is healthy and growing even in this economic time. Between March 2021 and the same month, a year later, the city added 22,900 private sector jobs, demonstrating a growth rate of 5.3%. Metro Atlanta Regional Economic Development places it as the top metro area for economic growth and strategic investment in tech innovation.

It is also worth noting that this city has a bustling international airport, 19 colleges, and universities. It has also been rated as one of the top 100 places in the USA for business and careers.

Property Investment 3Pros of Investing


Tax Benefits

You may well be able to reduce your tax burden as a result of deductions you can make from your real estate investment. Fees that you pay towards property management, maintenance, and insurance can often be deducted leaving you with a smaller tax bill.

Appreciation

With a little luck, it’s not uncommon to find that your home will appreciate significantly over time. This can be even more effective at generating profit if you’re able to carry out repairs and maintenance that bring the property to a higher standard. To find out about great areas that are undervalued you can turn to a company that does property Investment. Atlanta, Georgia is just one example of an area that insider knowledge can help with when it comes to appreciation.

Regular Income

Maybe it goes without saying, but the single biggest pro of investing in the rental market is the fact you’ll have regular, recurring income. Not only that, but rental market fluctuations mean that sometimes your rental value will increase year on year without any material changes being made to the building.

Cons of Investing

Lots of Cash Upfront

To get the most out of the market, you’ll likely need more cash upfront than you would for other types of investments. A quarter of the value of the property is a good amount to aim for when it comes to an investor’s down payment.

Time Intensive

Your time is every bit as valuable as the property you’ll be purchasing, so it’s good to be aware that investing in the rental market can be very time intensive. A handy way around this is to engage a property management company to handle the laborious aspects of the process.

Unpredictable Tenants

Ultimately, your tenants are the source of your income, so you wouldn’t want to lease your building to anybody who won’t take care of it, or who would delay or miss rental payments. There are checks that you can do to help with this aspect but, again, it’s good to have some professionals there to take care of tenant relationships where possible.

Property Investment2Professional Property Management

There are a lot of things to think about when deciding to invest in the rental market, and although there is every chance you’ll make a good return on your investment, having people to help you is always a good thing. For that reason, it’s important to engage a company that can help you with every aspect of property management. Big and small cities will always have eager renters, but having expert property managers can ensure that you experience as few hiccups as possible.

What Do They Do?

The management company is not just there to collect rental payments; they can also provide an excellent bespoke service to take care of things like:

  • Sourcing tenants for your property
  • Organizing maintenance and repairs
  • Managing bills and payments
  • Inspecting the property
  • Making sure the building is compliant with legal requirements

This is a simple but effective rule: always do your research before reaching out. Even if you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute internet scroll can reveal a wealth of information about a service provider. Be sure to check out customer reviews for honest opinions that can help point you in the right direction. It’s also worth checking out the larger directories for a more comprehensive list of companies in your area. From here you can begin to compare a few companies that you like the look of.

Don’t take anything for granted, that every company will have all the necessary credentials (you’ll be surprised how silver-tongued some firms can be!) Make sure that your agent is fully licensed; this is a promise of protection and will ensure that everything is managed professionally and appropriately within the legal requirements.

Why It’s So Important

Your time is important, and so is your property. That’s why engaging a management company ensures that you get the most out of your investment without having to operate as an on-the-ground landlord, which can be time-consuming and fraught with difficulty. Whether you need new tenants ASAP, or your current lease needs updating, you’ll be glad you hired a company to handle rental management. Here in Atlanta, GA it’s a competitive and exciting rental market right now, so if you’re thinking of investing, then the organizational know-how of trained professionals can give you the edge.

The cost of living here in Atlanta is higher than the average but there are more options for outdoor activities compared to neighboring cities. The average commute time here is 21-60 minutes, compared with hours in other places, and the climate is desirable – which is a plus when you have more time on your hands.

Summary of cost of living in Atlanta, GA, USA:

Family of four estimated monthly costs is $3,701.49 without rent.

A single person’s estimated monthly costs are $1,045.74 without rent.

Atlanta is 27.36% less expensive than New York

Rent in Atlanta is, on average, 52.35% lower than in New York.

 

 

 

 

Live Your Best Life

Change Your LifeChange Your Life

Two years ago, when I was on vacation in Morocco, I was sitting in a local coffee shop by the beachfront Marina with my family, I started to think about what was the BIG change that made me successful in my own online business.

After some thought, I came up with 4 principles that I thought were the main kickstarter for me…

Maybe only those with a certain mindset will be able to truly see it. Change your life and feel completely better!  This is just one of several ways lucky people create their fortunes.

To put these simple principles into action, here are four tips, (if you like) for creating more luck Expect Good Things to Happen. This is so powerful and rewires your brain. It programs you to find good things. In many cases, those good things were already there, just waiting to be discovered. But mental programming is strong. It makes us overlook “treasures” that are right in front of our noses.

The brain has to process a ton of input every day — and not everything we see makes its way to our conscious mind.

Fortunately, by focusing your conscious attention on the good rather than the bad, you can “train” your mind to find things that contribute positively to your life.

This becomes a great habit to have in your locker. How to change your life completely;  Because there are things you may have otherwise overlooked. Follow the steps to change.

Ok, what’s holding you up? Are you dealing with a state of unhappiness that is not usually influenced by circumstances or certain events as most people tend to believe, but it is rather influenced by your way of thinking, gaining a more positive mindset can be the solution you needed to change your life around.

Only you can change your life; certain aspects might be preventing you from truly experiencing the beauty of life and the beauty that lies within you. How to change your life for the better; there are a few amazing solutions that you can seek, to acquire the happiness and inner peace you have always desired to have, one example is slowing the aging process

Your journey toward happiness often lies in your self-esteem, and if there is anything that can affect that negatively is your lack of confidence in your physical appearance. If you have been dealing with self-esteem issues due to being overweight, then doing something about it will be necessary.

Making a change in your life to lose weight and achieving a better body image will not be possible if you do not change your perspective on the weight loss process, improve your lifestyle, and focus on the long-term results. If you need advice on how to lose weight, resorting to a specialist for counseling might be the answer you needed.

When you are talking about aging, you should not think about the physical implications that the passing of time has, but the mental ones. The moment you no longer feel young and full of life is the moment you start to age. It does not matter if you are 19 years old or 55, as long as you know how to change your mindset and know how to keep yourself motivated, feeling the way you did in your 20s will be possible.

You can become that joyful, active, adventurous, and passionate spirit you used to be by overcoming certain limits you have created for yourself.

Because in theory it might seem easy to obtain that life change you desire, but in reality, things can be quite difficult if you do not adopt the right mindset-changing methods, resorting to a specialist for advice will be more than beneficial. Just by searching on the internet, you will be able to find someone who can provide you with incredible solutions to any problems you might be dealing with, starting with apathy and tiredness and up to weight or confidence problems.

Discussing with someone who is experienced and knows the right ways of change your life someone’s negative way of thinking, will offer you guidance and as long as you believe making this change is possible, they will push you towards a more fulfilling and happy life. You can find such an expert even by searching online.

Let’s take the first step towards a positive change in your life that lies within your mindset. There are ways in which you can become more positive, in terms of how you view life, so pursuing a few effective methods or increasing positivity can truly help you turn your life around for the better.

  • Be Grateful

Change Your LifeWhen you start looking for things to be thankful for, you’re likely to find more and more reasons to feel grateful.

And really, gratitude is just another word for feeling lucky.

In my experience, gratitude leads to more energy and motivation. As such, it’s much easier to create positive life changes when you have a firm foundation of gratitude.

A daily gratitude journal (which can be as simple as writing down one thing you’re grateful for) is a great place to start.

There are a lot of people today that receive spiritual counseling. They are getting help navigating the world around them, and they are making progress slowly. There are a lot of great things that come with this. If you are struggling with your life, and aren’t sure where to turn, consider the beauty of counseling, and how it can help you change things for the better. Finding guidance is a lot easier than you may think. At first glance, this may seem a bit much, but honestly, it’s something that is going to prove amazing, if you find the right resource.

Finding A Counselor

Believe it or not, some counselors can be found through medical means. Some insurance plans even cover counseling and mental health visits. You’re going to find that these visits can help you have someone to talk to about your daily routine, life, and anything that is bothering you. While this may not be a “cure”, it can definitely shine a light on the issues that you may be facing. Sometimes, all you need is a fresh set of eyes to look at what you’re dealing with on a regular basis. You’ll find that this can help you in a lot of different ways, and finding a counselor can be made simple.

When in doubt, look online for the benefits that come with spiritual counseling. You’ll see that it’s more than just about raising your mood and evaluating your mindfulness. There’s a lot to consider here, and a lot of it can help you see life in a new manner. As long as you approach the spiritual awakening with some lifestyle change, you will no doubt benefit from what a spiritual counselor can offer. Even if you’ve never gone this route, test the waters once, and see why so many go this route overall. Finding help is not difficult, especially in these modern times.

  • Be Generous

What goes around comes around. You never know if someone you help may find their way to success, or how that favor might be unexpectedly returned to you

That doesn’t mean you should do nice things with the intent of someone owing you a favor, though. Instead, developing genuine relationships is key.

It also doesn’t mean you should overextend yourself, trying to help everyone to the point where you’re exhausted. and not making time for yourself Instead, it’s about finding balance.

That balance will look a little different for everyone, depending on your life and obligations.

But even when life is busy, you’re likely to find occasions now and again when you feel inspired and capable of giving someone else a helping hand.

  • Trying New Things

If what you’re currently doing hasn’t gotten you closer to where you want to be, then take a long look at yourself, isn’t it time to take 2023 by the horns? Change your life.

Don’t get stuck in a rut. Do something different.

I don’t know why people are constantly doing the same thing over, and over again, and expecting different results.

Several life coaches I know argue that by changing up your routine, you open yourself to new possibilities.

There are both emotional and practical factors at play here …the brain needs new challenges.

On the practical side, trying something new will introduce you to new people, places, and ideas. Any of these things could lead to an unexpected opportunity in your professional or personal life.

Change your life. On the emotional side, consider this: Often, we get stuck in our routines. Even if we think we’re open to change, it’s hard to get out of our comfort zone and change our habits. (And yes, I’ve been guilty of this myself in the past.)

Foods For Better Health

There are stories in everything: Big stories, little stories, and the most important stories are in health. Finding the right story is paramount to success in reaching your goal. Any of us never leave our comfort zone unless we’re forced to. We are known as creatures of habits and when we’re confronted with a major change in life our routine is interrupted and we’re plunged into the unknown. Gaining new experience, and new knowledge and positively changing the way of thinking is the beginning of something ‘new’. Health is no different; nothing will change unless you make it happen. Only in the last decade or so research has uncovered how we can take control of our health.

The message over recent times has been very clear: Some foods are good for us and some are not. Research and tests have found that extracts from natural and whole foods are more effective in healing and can sustain optimal health better than anything else.

Can food save our lives?

There are many testimonials and facts of people who survived aggressive cancers through changing diets and lifestyles. The name “lifestyle” can often be misleading and also be called industrialized or westernized world diet, which mainly consists of fried fatty foods, takeaway, fast foods, artificial flavors, sugar unhealthy snacks, soft drinks, and sodas loaded with artificial sugars. These are only some of the foods causing the most of bad health; at the same time, it answers that burning question: The right food can save our lives.

Being or become healthy we have to avoid processed, genetically modified enhanced junk some of which we are eating every day. As long as we keep buying it and perpetuate the conglomerates, in return they continue to give us more and all of this with no objections from our governments.

On the other hand, can we expect governments to take the initiative to warn people or even ban these substances from being used that are linked to many carcinogenic products endangering millions of people’s lives?

This is why we must gain knowledge, read and learn how to avoid the things that can hurt us and see through those commercials that try to brainwash us.

What we don’t know not only can hurt us, it can take years of our life.

Foods for better health

The power of natural foods hasn’t been realized for some decades, or maybe forgotten or just exchanged for the often better-tasting processed ones. Boosting your immune system with whole foods, vegetables and fruits is the only sustainable way to optimal health. The most powerful way to up our mineral and vitamin consumption is by making drinks fresh from plants every day, by either blending or juicing vegetables and fruits together. Green drinks make you feel energetic, improve your skin and appearance, and help to drop those kilos at the same time.

Have a salad and a few sticks of celery before your meal; these raw greens and other veggies will ensure that we are getting our enzyme intake. Enzymes help to digest food better and make us feel full faster since they contain lots of fiber. Any fermented vegetables and fruits are excellent and good for your gut health. Cultured cabbage like sauerkraut and other vegetables are easily made in your kitchen to your taste.

Or create a very powerful miracle drink: All you need is one potato, one carrot, and one apple to make the juice; you can add some lemon or lime for better taste, put them all through the juicer, and drink while it’s fresh an hour before your meal.

Benefits

 Strengthens the immune system, is good for eyesight and red eyes eliminate pain and muscle ache, assists bowel movement, eliminates constipation, good for acne and skin problems, lessens menstrual pain, and assists hay fever sufferers. According to some feedback it has prevented cancer cells to grow, prevented kidney, liver, and pancreas disease, and as well can cure ulcers. It can lower blood pressure and prevent heart attacks. For best results drink it first thing in the morning one hour before breakfast and late afternoon and make it fresh every time.

This is low in cost and little time involved in making it and will be a great benefit to your health. All vegetables and fruits have different benefits for different health issues. The most powerful ones are found in the cabbage family which includes broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. These green leafy vegetables have the highest nutritional and protein value, also the most needed omega 3, and other fatty acids which are essential for our body.

By changing our routine, we mentally open up to positive changes and look at challenges from new angles.

Changing Your LifeTo start, this change can be as big or as small as you’d like.

For example, is it time to change your job?

Or is it time to start small, by taking a new route home from work, reading in the evening instead of watching the news, or signing up for that art class, what about that home business you’ve been considering?

If you’re not sure where to begin, I’d recommend a small change to your daily schedule (like a short morning walk) or picking up a new hobby just for fun.

Change Your Life 2

Hug someone today!

 

Unlocking Your Business Potential with a Business Coach

Business Coach, a Mentor, or a Consultant
Difference Between a Business Coach, a Mentor, or a Consultant2

Whether you want to expand your small business to another country, kick-start your career as an entrepreneur or hone your marketing skills, you may be looking for some outside support.  If you look at top business achievers, you will find one common denominator: They didn’t do it all alone.

High-performing entrepreneurs and small business owners know that if they want to truly excel, they need guidance and support. But what’s best for your professional development? a coach? a mentor? a consultant? How do you even begin to choose?

Great professional development options:

Working with a mentor. You’re getting someone who’s already walked in your shoes. They are experienced in your field and can help fast-track you along your growth path. They can offer guidance, friendship, and support; there is usually a level of personal connection as they serve as a role model to help an individual reach their potential.

This can be super valuable because it saves you from having to go through a steep learning curve and make a bunch of mistakes along the way.

Difference Between a Business Coach, a Mentor, or a Consultant4Some of the advantages include:

Getting an outside perspective. Often, we are too close and emotionally tied to our business to see what’s truly happening. It can be beneficial to get a bird’s-eye view of your situation. Often, we’re too in love with our work to know about areas that need a little work. Your mentor will probe to uncover some problem issues that may not be instantly apparent to you.

Enabling you to reach higher. Sometimes we do things for other people that we wouldn’t do for ourselves. When you have the accountability of a mentor, you may push harder to reach your goals. Because you know that you have to report your results during your mentorship, can make you go the extra mile.

Gaining business experience.  Even if you have years of corporate experience, running your own business is a new challenge. You probably know a lot about your industry, but you may not know enough about running and growing a business.

When you hire someone with experience in creating systems, marketing, delegating, and growing a business, it helps you avoid costly mistakes and grow further, and faster. And they often have proven blueprints and templates to boost your results.

Being your cheerleader. You probably know that being a business owner can be a roller coaster! Some days you’re on top of the world, and other days you doubt yourself. Maybe you wonder if you should throw in the towel because everything seems to be going wrong. Mentorship can help you stay positive and motivated, so you can keep your business moving forward.

Working with a coach. A coach takes a slightly different approach. He or she serves as an expert guiding you in a very specific area of performance. If you Google “coach” you’ll see results for performance, marketing, financial support, sales, business growth, social media support, and more.

A business coach is trained to help you figure out your roadblocks, holds you accountable for your business success and shares their tried-and-true experiences and processes to help you get ahead in your business.Difference Between a Business Coach, a Mentor, or a Consultant

 

However, it’s important to note that many coaches are self-appointed experts. They may present themselves as highly successful and knowledgeable, but many could just be one step ahead of you. Read the fine print in any document.

While they may “talk the talk”, you don’t know if they have the skills or experience to help you succeed.

Leadership Coaching to uncover people’s hidden and natural talents and assess individual skills, capabilities, and/or behaviors that impact them positively and negatively. This helps her clients understand the actions they need to take to move in the right direction to get what they want.

Working with a business coach can help you in many of the same ways mentorship can, but they’re less of a “friend” and more of a “guide.”

  • Hear more objective opinions • Increase your networking opportunities.  • Lead more strategically • Develop your personality and leadership style • Better understand yourself

Read: 30 Things Business & Marketing Coaches Wish Entrepreneurs Would Stop Doing, on our website

From the economy to the weather, struggling entrepreneurs have all sorts of reasons why their product or service isn’t selling. But have you ever considered that you might be doing things all wrong and that’s why you’re not reaching the success you’d like to see?

Here are some valuable insights from 30 successful business coaches. They’ve observed what frustrates them to no end, and these are the things that could very well be thwarting your success!

Working with a consultant. A consultant is often an expert in their field and provides you with advice. While they may sound similar to a mentor or a coach, consultants don’t work with you to improve your skills or guide you in your professional development. They usually work within your defined metrics and deliverables.

A coach A mentor A consultant

When you work with a consultant, you’re getting valuable advice from someone with niche experience and industry understanding. While a business coach or a mentor will encourage you to do your best, a consultant will focus on identifying what you need to do to accomplish your goals. 

The most common consulting methods are:

  • Strategic Advice: When a business has specific problems, a consultant can create a strategy to solve them. 
  • Done-for-you Service: Some consultants have a team to support them, so this option makes sense if a small business requires a solution, they aren’t skilled in implementing. 
  • One-Time Training: Say your management team hasn’t been meeting a certain objective. A consultant could offer them training to help them get back on track.
  • Ongoing Coaching: You can’t expect amazing results by meeting with a consultant once for four hours. Many small businesses will work with a consultant over months or years on things like a marketing plan or expanding the company globally.

Difference Between a Business Coach, a Mentor, or a Consultant3Your unique needs will determine whether you need a mentor, coach, or consultant to enhance your professional development. But each one has the power to prevent you from making bad decisions that will leave you in financial distress and conducting self-sabotage to your success, whether you realize you are doing it or not!

 

Start Your Career as a Bookkeeper

Become a bookkeeperBecome a bookkeeper

Bookkeeping is one of the oldest and most important professions in the world. Bookkeepers maintain accurate company records, financial transactions, and statements.

This article provides some tips on how to teach yourself how to become a bookkeeper. It will also give you some information on the skills needed to succeed in this profession.

 

Roles of a Bookkeeper

To become a bookkeeper, you’ll first need to understand what a bookkeeper does and the education and skills required to become one.

A bookkeeper’s work is to keep track of company finances by creating financial records for all transactions that occur in the company. They also maintain the company’s books and records by calculating taxes and payrolls, paying bills and invoices, reconciling bank statements, preparing financial statements and budgets, and managing investments or other assets such as stocks or bonds held.

They do this by using accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero and following generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

As a bookkeeper, you’ll have different responsibilities depending on the size of your employer. For example, if working for a small business, you might also be responsible for handling payroll or managing inventory. If you work in public accounting, you may also be responsible for preparing tax returns.Become a bookkeeper

 

 

Skills Needed to Become a Good Bookkeeper

The main requirement for becoming a bookkeeper is knowing how to keep books. A four-year degree in accounting is not required, especially if you possess the following skills;

  • Organized and detail-oriented
  • High level of accuracy and organization
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks at once, such as bills and daily transactions
  • Ability to use computer software and adapt to new programs easily
  • The terminology and procedures involved in financial record keeping
  • Basic math skills, an understanding of debits and credits, and a working knowledge of double-entry accounting.

How to Become a bookkeeper

Step 1. Learn Accounting

To become a bookkeeper, you’ll first learn basic accounting skills. If you don’t know how to balance your checkbook, start there. Learn the difference between a debit and a credit, the difference between cash and accrual accounting, and how to use the various reports generated by accounting software.

You can practice these skills on software like QuickBooks or Quicken as you learn them. These programs are often available at local libraries or on the internet. Once you feel comfortable with these basic skills, you can seek more advanced training.

Step 2. Take Free or Low-cost Online Bookkeeping Courses

Bookkeeping coursework covers general bookkeeping principles and the specific accounting software used by many businesses. Accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, trial balance, and journal entries are covered in typical bookkeeping classes.

Free/low-cost bookkeeping courses includeBecome a bookkeeper2

  • Coursera courses

Coursera is a large online learning platform. Many free online courses are available, including courses in accounting and bookkeeping. Most of these courses are done in partnership with other online universities, are accredited, and have certificates of completion.

They offer various courses in different subjects. Some of the courses are free, and some are pay-as-you-go. You can learn and expand your knowledge on bookkeeping at Coursera at a minimal expense.

  • Corporate Finance Institute

Corporate Finance Institute is an online community college that offers specialized training in corporate finance, including stock trading and investing. You can learn from the world’s best instructors in just three months. Corporate Finance Institute also offers new students six months of free access to their online course materials. This includes a large selection of free video training courses covering topics such as stock trading and investing and bookkeeping and payroll.

  • Intuit bookkeeping basics

Intuit is the bookkeeping division of the software giant Intuit Inc., formerly QuickBooks. The QuickBooks bookkeeping software is a great place to get started with bookkeeping, but if you want to advance your career and learn more advanced techniques, you should consider enrolling in one of the company’s online courses. There are several different courses available, designed for beginners and advanced users. You can learn QuickBooks fundamentals and more advanced topics, such as the payroll module.

Step 3. Enroll In Internship ProgramsBecome a bookkeeper3

You may also want to look for an internship with a company in your area that uses bookkeepers. This will give you some hands-on experience.

Once you have completed formal training and gained some practical experience, you will be ready to seek employment as a bookkeeper for a company in your area or even as an independent contractor working from home.

 

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