CANDY WASHINGTON

WRITER | PRODUCER | ACTOR | MANIFESTATION + SELF-LOVE MUSE

How to Really Master Your Cell Phone Camera

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

These days, many people don't see the need for a separate digital camera. While it might be nice to have one, it's often not necessary when you have a good smartphone camera. Smartphone cameras can be powerful and produce high-quality images and videos, doing much of what a separate digital camera can do. In fact, with the right tools, you can pretty much turn your cell phone into its own digital camera. Some people don't really take the time to learn how to use their phone cameras effectively. After all, you can just point it and take a pretty decent photo or video. But with a few tips, you can make it even better.

Create a Balanced Composition
A good photo should have a good composition. Instead of just taking a photo without really thinking about what it looks like, you can consider what elements make up different parts of the frame. One way you can improve the composition of your photos on your phone is by turning on the grid lines. This creates nine squares across your screen, which you can use to follow the "rule of thirds", which says you can balance your photo by placing points of interest in these squares or along the lines. You can turn on your grid lines in the photo and camera settings of an iPhone or in the settings of your camera app on a Samsung Galaxy phone.

Another way to improve the composition of your photos is to play with negative space. Leaving empty space around the subject of your photo can uplift it and help your subject to stand out more. Plus, it can give you a pleasing background that helps to enhance your photo.

Play with the Focus
The focus on your phone's camera is definitely something to consider. Camera phones will usually automatically focus on the foreground to identify the subject of the photo. However, you don't always want it to do that, especially if you don't have an obvious subject for your photo. If you want to change what your camera is focusing on, you can tap the screen where you want it to focus and it will readjust. You can use this when you want to take a photo of something in motion, for example.

Speaking of focus, it's usually best to focus on one subject if you want to make your photo clear. It's also a good idea to avoid zooming in because this can make your photo blurry. Instead, try to get as close to the subject of your photo as possible.

Get a Tripod
You don't always want to hold your phone while taking photos, especially if you want to photograph or film yourself. A tripod can help with this, allowing you to place your phone wherever you want. It will also ensure your photos or videos are stable, which can be hard to do if you don't have a steady hand. A tripod for your smartphone can be handy to have at home, but many of them also fold up small so you can easily carry them around. They can be bent into different angles too, so you can position them perfectly to get the shot that you want.

Use a Gimbal
If you want to go one better than a tripod, you might consider getting a gimbal. A gimbal is a little like a selfie stick, but with a lot more features. You can mount your phone onto the handheld device and then point it where you want it. It will help to stabilize your image for you and you can also choose one that extends. If you take a look at www.drdrone.ca, you can see how a gimbal works together with software on your phone. It can help you to track moving subjects and use different effects on your photos and footage.

Know When to Use Flash
The flash on your phone can help you to brighten up a frame when there's not enough light. However, it's important to know when to use the flash and how to use it. When you can, try to use natural light. If you do think you need to use your flash, it's best to only use it during the day. If you use your flash at night, it's unlikely to improve the resulting photo. It's probably going to make it look uneven, with sharp contrasts. However, if your subject is already well-lit, using the flash could help to improve the photo.

Use an Extra Lens
You've most likely seen professional cameras with interchangeable lenses, but those aren't the only cameras that allow you to use different lenses. External lenses are available for your smartphone camera too, and they can be used to take different types of photos or video with your camera. You can get options like fish-eye and wide-angle lenses, which adjust the perspective of your frame and allow you to do new things with your camera. There are various brands offering lenses made for mobile devices, which can be attached to your phone's existing camera lens.

Don't Forget About Audio
If you're using your phone to make videos, audio quality can be just as important as the image. There are a few things that you might do to improve the audio on your videos. One option is buying an external microphone, which can be a big improvement over your phone's inbuilt microphone. If you have access to a second smartphone, using it to record your audio closer to the source can help, and you can then join the video and audio when you edit. If you don't need any sound on your video, you can simply edit the sound out so that you're left with a smooth video and no unnecessary audio.

Even if you can't do these things, be careful about where you choose to film. A quiet location will enable you to control the audio much better than if you're somewhere windy or loud.

By mastering how to use your cell phone camera, you can do more with just one small device.

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Tips for Saving Money at Home

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Saving money can be challenging, especially if you have fallen into some bad habits. This doesn’t mean you cannot change things around though. Saving money can benefit you in many ways. With a little knowledge, time, and dedication, you will be able to review your finances with ease and make some new money-saving habits that will improve your quality of life and your bank account. 

Here are some top tips to help you get started with saving money at home. 

Review your direct debits 

More often than not, you will have at least one direct debit (or many) that is unnecessary. Maybe it is a gym membership and you keep telling yourself you are going to go, or you might have signed up for an online subscription that you completely forgot about. It is time to be truthful with yourself, and go through each one and consider whether you need it. Be ruthless, and cancel anything you don’t need or use anymore.

Regularly checking your outgoings is also a great way to stay safe and ensure there is no fraud going on in your accounts. 

Review your assets 

It is hard to let go of items, but at times, it is necessary to bite the bullet and get rid of them. Not only is this a good way to declutter your space, but it can also save you money, and in some cases, make you money. For example, if you have several vehicles but don’t use them that often, you can sell them at a place where you get cash for cars. This will save you a lot of money on taxes, insurance, petrol, and maintenance costs while earning you money to put into your savings. 

Set yourself a budget 

Without a budget, it is easy to spend money without realizing how costly it can be. Take some time to sit and review all your finances. Consider what are your essential outgoings (utility bills, insurance, rent/mortgage payments, childcare costs, fuel, food shopping, mobile phones, etc) what you want to save each month (this is especially important if you have a goal to make a large purchase such as a home, holiday or vehicle), anything large coming up such as insurance renewal or MOT, and you will be able to see how much money you have leftover each month.
It is a good idea to review where you are currently spending your money and categorize it, for example, if you eat out a lot, or spend a lot of money on morning coffee runs when you have a perfectly good machine at home. The categorization will help you visualize where your spending is high, and where you can cut down accordingly. Perhaps you can keep an eye on your energy consumption, look for new utility tariffs, and cook at home an extra night per week. 

Portion part of the money you have leftover each month, as you never know what unexpected costs you may incur, and that leaves you with a budget you can enjoy. Try your best to stick to this budget each month. While trying to save, remember it is important that you can go out and enjoy yourself too! 

Start by setting some time aside, and see where you can save with what you already have. Once you have increased your awareness of your habits, things will change for the better. 

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The Training Courses Each Of Your Employees Should Take

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Should you be a business owner and in charge of a merry band of employees, you should always factor training into your budget. Going beyond the courses that are specific to the various roles your employees cover, there are other types of training courses that could be considered essential for everyone. 

Here are some notable examples. 

#1: First aid training
It doesn't matter if the jobs your employees do are hazardous or not. There is always the risk of a health emergency emerging. It might be when an employee stumbles over something in the parking lot and injures their knee. Or it could be when somebody starts to choke on something during lunch. For some employees and customers, there might also be the risk of a sudden heart attack. Would you or your employees know what to do in such situations?

First aid certification can be gained from the types of courses found at cprcertificationnow.com. They are worth looking into as lives can be saved if your employees know what to do when an emergency occurs. 

#2: Cyber security training
Businesses around the globe are prone to cyber-attacks and your business could be at risk too. A hacking attempt could topple your business, especially if money is stolen or if your reputation is damaged because customer data is compromised. You probably know this already of course, and as such, you may have secured your computer systems to protect your business from attacks. Still, mistakes can be made. Your employees could open email links that lead to malware. Or they could neglect important security updates. 

To best protect your company's data, invest in cyber security training for any employee that connects to the internet in your business. If they know how to spot the signs of a hacking attempt, steps can be taken to eliminate the threat. 

#3: Diversity training
Discrimination should not be tolerated in any workplace. Those employees who judge or bully others because of their gender, race, culture, age, or sexuality, should be spoken to by you, with warnings made if necessary. However, if you have invested in diversity training for your employees, potential issues could be dealt with early. Your employees will learn to be tolerant of others and be given instruction on how to work effectively with people they might perceive as being 'different' to them.

You should definitely consider workplace diversity training for any individual who has failed to show tolerance. But it might be useful to give everybody the chance to take the training, as it will ensure a fairer and safer workplace for all. 

#4: Customer service training
For those employees that deal directly with customers, this type of training is a must. They will learn how to interact better with the people who profit your business, including those that might be difficult to relate to. You know already that your customers will spread bad word of mouth about your business on Facebook, review sites, etc. if they experience terrible customer service. So, commit to this training as your reputation could hinge on it!

Have your employees taken these training courses yet? If not, now is the time to consider them, as they will benefit both the people who work for you and the overall running of your business. 

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Online Trading Strategies To Help You Breakthrough

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Online trading can be a great way to make money. Whether you are looking for an easy way to make some extra cash or an in-depth strategy, there are many different ways that you can trade online. It is crucial to do your research before making any trades and know what strategies work best for you. 

Start Small 

Don’t start with thousands of dollars because all trading options, especially CFD trading, require diligence which you can only have if you start small. Trade small amounts first to get used to the system. Once you are comfortable, consider increasing your trades and the number of assets to trade. It can take several months before you feel confident in control, so keep that mindset throughout!

Use a Reliable Platform

A reliable platform is a must when trading online; plus, it can improve your productivity for higher yields. In many cases, traders can use free platforms to get started with demo accounts or micro-lots before moving to larger trades and more advanced strategies. 

However, once you have mastered currency trading basics, it’s time to find a reputable broker who offers all the services your business needs. To have a reliable platform, you should:

  • Be aware of fake platforms online and avoid them at all costs. 

  • Keep trading costs to a minimum by using an online broker that offers the lowest spreads. 

Having a reliable platform means that you can access your account from anywhere globally, which is essential if you are constantly on the go or have changed location. A good broker should offer clients this option since it enhances their trading experience and allows them to trade according to their schedule.

Gather More Knowledge

There are so many great tools that can help you get more knowledge.  You just have to know where to look and be willing to put in the time.  If you are just starting, then many free resources can help.  

On the other hand, if you have been in the industry for a while and want to advance your strategies, there is no better way than to attend some great trading seminars offered throughout the year!

Set Aside Time To Trade

Trading isn't easy. You have to watch the market, make decisions, place trades quickly without hesitation, and time is always of the essence. It's not for everyone, but trading can be advantageous if you are up for the challenge. 

Setting aside time to trade will help you do better. It's easy to get distracted when trading, and if you have a full-time job, it can be challenging to set aside the required time. 

Your mind must be clear of other thoughts while making decisions on trades, so try not to multitask during this period. If possible, find a quiet place where you can focus.

Cut Losses With Limit Orders

Limit orders are one of the most overlooked trading tools. A limit order can help you cut losses and take profits before starting a trade, which leads to less stress on your accounts, better psychology for making trades, and more time spent with friends or family instead of being glued to charts all day.

Limit orders allow you to buy or sell a stock at a specific price. For example, if you want to purchase shares of ABCD Corp when the share price falls below $50, but don't have enough cash in your account to do so immediately, then simply place a limit order for 50 cents under the current market value and watch as it grows over time.

Conclusion

There are no shortcuts or magic recipes when it comes to trading online. Instead, you will need patience, dedication, knowledge, commitment, and perseverance if you want any real results.  But if you commit to learning how the markets work, there is no reason you cannot succeed.

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A Career Making People Feel Great

Candy WashingtonComment
Photo by Chalo Garcia on Unsplash

Hi lovelies,

Is there anything more rewarding than seeing some win? Seeing someone take control of their lives and growing. It’s possible to do that with several different career choices. 

Progress is a big deal when working with someone for a while on their fitness journey, styling, nutrition, or personal development like a coach. 

It shows that you are great at what you do, and that they trust you enough to follow your instructions and prosper. 

What do those careers look like? An electric mix! 

Stylist
Not everyone is blessed with style, and sometimes it takes seeking out people who are to help. Stylists and fashion bloggers have helped millions of people uncover their style and dress the way they feel. 

Not shying away from block colors, understanding how to balance patterns, and accessorizing an outfit. You can give that confidence to people. 

Thanks to video calling, stylists can also work remotely, allowing you to work with anyone, anywhere. 

Although some stylists have qualifications, you don’t need one. A great portfolio, Instagram, and a few features in online magazines are all you need. 

Fitness
Achieving your own fitness goals is an incredible feeling, but helping other people meet theirs? Unbeatable! 

Fitness is a continual journey that encompasses a range of exercises and nutritional understanding.

One of the most exciting things about the fitness industry is that people have a range of different goals. Some wish to train hard, to tackle a marathon. Others are hoping to tone up and feel a bit more healthy. 

A key thing with fitness is that trainers should have the correct certification to help their customers. And, it’s a good idea to specialize in an area; if you have many runners in the area, then a running coach certification makes sense. 

Think about which fitness gives you the most significant mood boost and enjoyment, and consider that as your specialty!

Personal Development 
People are all on a journey to be the best version of themselves. What that looks like for each person will change. 

With personal development coaching, you will help them unlock that potential and look at all facets of themselves. 

Looking at where someone is in life, helping them define their objectives, and creating steps to ensure that they can reach their goals. 

You can watch someone grow and help them craft their life to the vision they have.

Imparting your motivation to keep your clients going is essential. Check out: How To Motivate Yourself When Running Your Own Business for some great tips. 

Career Coach
Similar to a personal development coach, but with a very defined purpose. You will be helping people look at their careers and choose a path. 

You may encounter people who have children and are hoping to build a business from home, or you may work with multi-million dollar business moguls who need some accountability. 

You can choose what suits you, and you can specialize in a specific industry.  

Careers that help other people achieve their goals instill a sense of purpose and success in their teachers, trainers, and coaches.

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Respectable Ways To Make Money From Your Body

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

If you're like most people, you will be keen to have more money in your life. 

Whether it's to save up for something nice to buy, such as an elegant new dress or a snazzy pair of shoes, or simply to put away for a rainy day, there are all kinds of ways to make money

As our title suggests, one way to boost your income is to make money using your body. There are a number of opportunities open to you and we take a look at some of them below. 

#1: Sell feet pics
As unusual as it might sound, there is a market for feet pics. Those companies that sell foot-related items might need pictures for their websites, for example. Foot doctors might also be interested in pictures of your feet for their publications. And those involved in the beauty industry, such as nail salon owners, might be interested in foot pictures too.

You will often find businesses and individuals advertising for foot pictures online so it's worth browsing the web if you're interested. There are also websites to sell feet pics to, so follow the link to learn more about this particular option. 

#2: Sell your hair
There are all kinds of businesses out there that buy hair. These include wig-making companies, salon owners, and charities that collect donated hair for cancer patients. 

Hair that has never been dyed is often in higher demand because it is usually of better quality. Certain hair colors are more popular than others too, such as red hair, as it is rarer than black, brunette and blonde. 

If you're looking to sell your hair, you could look for ads online. You could also approach businesses directly if you think they would be interested. There are also ideas in this article on where to sell your hair for cash

#3: Become a hand model
Businesses that specialize in such jewelry as rings and bracelets often post vacancies online for hand models. Spa and salon owners also ask for pictures of hands for their promotional materials. There is also a market for those with hand fetishes, so you might find the appropriate websites online if you dig hard enough. 

You can respond to any requests you find online although you might want to approach businesses directly too. 

You could also approach a modeling agency with the hand photos you have already taken as they can act as the go-between for you and other clients. This could become a very profitable side hustle for you as you could earn thousands of dollars a day if you consider this option. Of course, caring for your hands is a must so protect them as much as possible if this is an avenue you want to go down. 

For more, check out this advice from a professional hand model

So, if you're looking to make extra money, these are just a few of the opportunities open to you. There are plenty of other respectable ideas online, so browse the internet and consider any option that might be right for you.

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8 Most Popular Travel Destinations in the USA: Which One is Right for You?

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

The USA is a vast country. It has everything from desert landscapes to mountain ranges and the largest ocean on Earth- the Pacific Ocean. The sheer amount of travel destinations can be overwhelming for most people. We have narrowed down our list of the eight most popular travel destinations in the USA that are worth exploring at least once in your lifetime!

1 New York
Probably the most famous city in the US, and for a good reason. The Big Apple is full of things to do and a plethora of iconic landmarks such as Times Square or Central Park.

The first destination on our list is New York City. It has everything from an exciting nightlife scene with fantastic restaurants like Bukowski's Tavern, which offers specials that change daily, to world-renowned attractions like Ellis Island, where you can learn about immigrants who came into America throughout history. There are plenty more reasons why NYC should be at least one stop on your vacation itinerary!

2 Philadelphia
The City of Brotherly Love is a historic town with plenty to do. You can visit the Liberty Bell or enjoy some cheesesteaks at Pat's King of Steaks (not that other place- they are not as good). One thing you should see while you're there is Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.

This iconic historical destination offers many sites for history lovers and more! Visitors will find themselves blown away by all it has to offer, from museums like The Franklin Institute, which houses over 250 hands-on exhibits on science and technology, to landmarks such as Independence Hall, where people's dreams came true when independence was finally won after years of fighting for it.

3 San Diego
San Diego is a city that has something for everyone. You can take your kids to SeaWorld, or you could go hiking in nearby mountains! There are plenty of different things to do and see while visiting San Diego's beaches- from riding the waves on a surfboard at Carlsbad State Beach to exploring tide pools with sea life like starfish and crabs.

This destination offers visitors that many people may not know about is their famous zoo which houses over 1500 animals, including elephants, giraffes, tigers (and more)! A renowned city for families or anyone looking to have fun in the sun, San Diego has it all. Whether you're planning to go surfing at La Jolla Shores Beach, check out SeaWorld's latest attractions from Turtle Trek and Antarctica. Empire of the Penguin- exclusive only to this location, or exploring tide pools along beaches with your family, San Diego has a little something for everyone!

4 Chicago
Chicago is a city with plenty of history and activities to explore. From historic architecture like The Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), which was once home to America's tallest building, Navy Pier, you can find an amusement park or catch a show at the famous House Of Blues nightclub. There are always new things to do that may not have been seen before!

In addition, visitors will enjoy taking in all Chicago has to offer, such as its world-class museums, incredible dining scene, shopping for designer brands from stores found on Michigan Avenue, including Louis Vuitton and Gucci, or catching a game between two baseball teams who share one of the most intense rivalries in US sports; and if you're wondering Which cities, states, and stadiums will host the most games in 2021? Chicago might be the perfect holiday destination for you. 

5 Boston
Boston is a historic town with plenty to offer. Visitors can visit the Freedom Trail, which includes 16 different sites related to the Revolutionary War that offers insights into some of America's most important historical events. Boston also has attractions like Fenway Park, where you can watch Red Sox baseball games or explore The Museum Of Fine Arts- one of New England's oldest and finest art museums!

There are many reasons why visitors should consider visiting this destination on their next trip across the country, including all it has to offer, such as its famous Fenway park home of the World Series champion Red Sox (who have won more titles than any other team in MLB history!), an eclectic mix of neighborhoods for those looking for something offbeat, world-class museums, and so much more!

6 Miami
Miami is an excellent destination for those who like to keep it sunny and hot. Visitors can find themselves riding the high-speed train down to Miami Beach, where they will be greeted with an array of beautiful white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and hotels, nightlife hotspots such as LIV, which has hosted some great parties; in past years, including Prince's posthumous gig!

If you're looking for upscale shopping, then head over to South Beach, where visitors are constantly running into celebrities (or at least their lookalikes) on any given day. This beach town also offers plenty more activities if surfing isn't your thing or even just exploring famous sites like The Kluge Estate that serves as the home of the John S. & James L. Knight Foundation, Jockey's Club Building which was once home to Miami's first skyscraper and served as the city's tallest building from 1922 until 1929, or the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables. Miami is a vibrant city that offers everything you would expect from Florida, including beautiful weather, world-class beaches, and some of the best nightlife around!

7 Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a sprawling city with plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. So whether you're interested in the Hollywood Walk Of Fame or one of America's most famous beaches- this destination has it all!

Hollywood Boulevard is home to more than two dozen historical movie and TV studios, iconic landmarks like The Capitol Records Building, built-in 1956. The TCL Chinese Theatre, where you can see over 25 different handprints and footprints from some of your favorite film stars, including Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, Judy Garland, as well as engaging outdoor exhibitions such as "The Wall That Heals" that commemorates veterans who served during World War II and Vietnam up until today. You'll also find world-class shopping at Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Pier, and Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive.

Los Angeles is a city where nearly every street corner offers something different to see- from the Hollywood Walk of Fame that features stars honoring your favorite celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe or Charlie Chaplin, famous landmarks like The Capitol Records Building, which was built in 1956 with over two dozen TV and movie studios, or the world-class shopping found on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

8 San Francisco
San Francisco is a city of culture. So whether you're interested in the arts or are looking for some good food- this destination has it all! There's street art galore, and visitors can participate in free public yoga sessions at Golden Gate Park, which always draws a crowd on Saturday mornings.

This bay area gem also offers plenty more to see, such as Alcatraz Island, where you can explore a maximum-security prison that operated from 1934 until 1963. Lombard Street features one of America's most famous hills with its "most crooked" curves driving up to near-vertical grades, Chinatown's historical buildings, and temples. Fisherman's Wharf with sea lions sunbathing next to Pier 39 and the Golden Gate Bridge, where you can take in some of America's most iconic views. If museums are your thing, then SF is the place for you! Whether it's a museum-like SFMOMA that houses over 25,000 contemporary and modern art pieces from around the world.

We hope this informative article has helped you explore your options for a vacation destination! If you are interested in the mentioned locations, please click on any of those links to read more about it.

How to Create a Healthier Work Environment in Your Office

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

If you’re running a business and you have a team of people working hard for you, the least you should try to do is create a positive and healthy work environment in which they can do their jobs. And it’ll benefit you and everyone involved in the business as well as your team, so it’s definitely worth thinking about.

But what does a healthy work environment look like and what can you do with your office space to ensure it’s living up to the standards you should expect? We’re going to talk today about some of the changes you can make in order to create a healthier work environment that you and everyone on your team can benefit from. So read on now to find out more.

Do Your Bit to Promote Wellness and Don’t Encourage Unhealthy Working Habits
First of all, you should think about the messages your business sends out to its employees. You should place an emphasis on wellness and try to show your staff members just how important it is to lead a balanced life and not to overwork themselves. Of course, you’ll play a role in determining whether that happens or not, so try not to place too much work on one person’s shoulders. And make an effort to educate people on how to work in a healthy and productive way that aids their wellness.

Make it Easy for Your Team to Connect
It should be as easy as it can be for your team members to connect with one another and to work as a unit. If they find that it’s difficult for them to work with one another, they’ll become disjointed and they won’t collaborate or function as a team. That’s probably not what you want in a modern workplace, so provide the resources and the physical setup inside your office that’ll ensure your team can work together. It’ll make their working lives less stressful if you get this right.

Keep the Office Clean and Hygienic
These days, it’s never never been more important to keep your office as clean and hygienic as it possibly can be. You should want to make sure that the office space is cleaned regularly and that you use natural cleaning products rather than those filled with chemicals if possible. Hygiene is important too, especially with the pandemic that we’ve all just been through. Returning to the office might be daunting for some, but it’ll be easier on them if strong hygiene practices are in place.

Keep Things Flexible
Making people’s working lives and routines as flexible as possible has been shown to encourage better mental health. We all have busy and chaotic lives sometimes, and the same is true for your employees. If it works for them to work from home sometimes or to work different hours, then you should do everything within your power to make that happen. The more flexible you are, the more productive your team will end up being too.

Ensure the Space Has Good Air Flow and Natural Light in Abundance
Making sure your home’s space has good air flow and plenty of natural light is a must. We know that with Covid, air ventilation has become an even more important factor in many workplaces. But plenty of fresh and natural light coming in through the windows will not only make your office space feel more positive and more inviting, but also help to keep your team healthier at work too. So contact a window installation contractor if you feel more windows need to be added to your office space.

Recognize and Reward Good Work
People need a little recognition if they’re going to stay happy and motivated in their roles. Don’t be the boss that ignores staff members when they do great things and only speaks up when there’s something wrong that needs to be fixed. If that’s the approach you take, you’ll end up with an unmotivated and completely demoralized team of people, which is obviously not what you want at all. When good work is done, don’t be afraid to recognize it and praise people for it. It goes a long way.

Create Spaces for Comfort and Relaxation
There should be parts of your workplace that offer more in terms of comfort and relaxation. Of course, that doesn’t mean your team is going to be laid back and taking it easy when they should be working. But it does mean that when it’s their break time or when they need a little time out to de-stress, they’ll have a place where they can go and relax. Never underestimate how important that is from a mental health perspective. 

Make Standing Desks Optional
Some people prefer standing desks these days, and they have been shown to offer considerable health benefits to people who use them. Sitting at a desk all day long isn’t great for a person’s health, and it also isn’t great for their posture either. So if anyone in your workplace wants to use a standing desk, you should make this possible for them. That flexibility is what most employees are looking for as well.

Add Some Plants to the Office Space
Finally, you should think about adding some life to your office in the form of indoor plants. These are great for a number of reasons. First of all, they bring some vibrancy to the space and make it feel more in touch with the natural world, which is never a bad thing. On top of that, plants indoors can help to improve the air quality, which is something that matters a lot when it comes to keeping people feeling healthy.

If you’re looking to create a better and healthier work environment inside your office, the ideas above should help you make that a reality. Be sure to tailor the tips above to your specific needs. After all, every business is unique and your team’s needs will be unique as well.

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The 5 Things That Every Successful Person Should Aspire To Achieve

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Success can be defined in many ways. However, successful people share a whole host of different attributes and traits. First and foremost, they develop a winning mindset that focuses on positivity and how to actively make things happen. One key aspect of this mindset is to prioritize their goals.

Some things in life are just naturally associated with successful people and reflect very well on your approach. Here are five you should aspire to achieve.

A Wonderful Home
You spend more time at home than any other place, even when you’re successful and spend time on the road. So, creating the perfect homely environment should be at the top of your agenda. Working with a custom home builder will enable you to create a property that is perfectly matched to your needs. And it will be a new build. Frankly, those two items combined will create an unrivaled sense of luxury that screams success. It is the foundation of a better life.

A Good Work-Life Balance
When you are a success, it’s likely that you will love your career or business. Nonetheless, you will also appreciate the fact that it is only one aspect of your world. From traveling in style to regular vacations to finding time for loved ones, a good work-life balance will be key. Less successful people often find that they are starved of time, which can harm their mindset too. Besides, a strong work-life balance allows you to pursue any new goals that may surface.

Good Mental Health
Now more than ever, the importance of mental health is huge. Facing issues is not a sign of failure. After all, everyone from Olympians to pro boxers and musicians has gone public with their issues in recent times. However, successful people find time to invest in their mental wellness even when things seem to be going well. Meditation, hobbies, and staying fit are just three ways to promote better wellness. Most importantly, you must pay attention to any changes and seek help if required. Early intervention is key. 

Respect
There’s no escaping the fact that we care about what others think. Most importantly, though, you will want respect from your friends, family, and peers. Depending on your industry, this could mean winning awards or local accolades. Most importantly, though, you need to have respect for yourself. Stand up for what you believe and keep investing in your self-development. There is no greater triumph than being truly happy with who you are and what you are trying to become.

Long-Term Stability
There is practically no point in building a positive situation today if it isn’t followed by a bright tomorrow. The rewards of your hard work should last a lifetime, but only you can make that happen. Savings and smart investments are integral features that will lead you to greatness. Meanwhile, creating several income sources can be a great way to protect yourself in these unstable times. ‘When your finances and career are in good health, with one eye on retirement, you won’t go far wrong.

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4 Surefire Ways to Grow Your Business during COVID-19

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

If there is one thing everyone can agree on, this past year has been tough, especially for small business owners. Covid-19 had everyone staying indoors and many businesses shutting down. Since there was reduced physical contact, most businesses that depend on customer interaction realized that they could not afford to stay up and running, so they shut down. However, despite businesses shutting down, some grew amid the pandemic.

If you have a business and have been struggling, you are not alone. Fortunately, there is still hope for you to keep growing your business and thriving through the pandemic. Here are some powerful tips that can help you grow your business.

Identify a point of growth in the company
Despite all the issues you might be going through in the business, there is always a place you can turn to when you need growth, and all you have to do is look. For instance, if you were running a restaurant and cannot have walk-in clients anymore, you can choose to do a home delivery service. You get to stay open and still make money even though there is no interaction with the clients.  If you were running a tutoring program, you could choose to have online class packages and teach your students through the various online meeting platforms. All you have to do is find something you can work with and move with it.

Monitor your progress
Another thing you need to do is find a way to monitor your progress. There are so many online tools, like the Youtube API, that you can use for your business. These tools will help you see where there is potential for growth and which areas of your business you need to work on.  Useful data on how your business is performing will help you chart the right way forward.

Identify your target clients
Another great way to ensure you are growing is to figure out who your clients are. Since many people are still indoors, they might not have the exact needs they had a few years back.  Figure out what their current needs are and how you can meet them without breaking the bank. In doing so, you can be sure you will always have clients.

Adjust the way you run things
It should go without saying that things have changed, and you cannot run your business the way you used to. In the past, people had different perceptions about the services and products they got, affecting how they relate to your business. Therefore, if you want to stay relevant, you will have to figure out what has changed and how you can incorporate it into your business. It is only through doing this that you will be able to grow.

Running a business has never been easy, and the pandemic did not make it any easier. Despite this, there are various things you can do to improve productivity at work and also grow your business. All you need to remember is to be deliberate in the decision you make concerning your business.

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Telltale Signs You Were Born To Educate

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Some people learn to become teachers. Others are born to do it. In this post, we take a look at some of the telltale signs that you were destined for a career in education from a very early age. 

You Can’t Imagine Yourself Doing Anything Else
People who are born to become teachers often can’t imagine themselves doing anything else. They have a passion for it. Right from an early age, they see themselves in the role of an educator and it lasts all the way through childhood.

You Are More Interested In Results Than Money
Educators have another curious common trait: they’re much more interested in outcomes than they are money. Unlike many industries, teachers don’t rely on bonuses for good performance. Instead, they invest in their students, regardless of their salary. 

You Can Put Yourself In Other People’s Shoes
Being able to put yourself in the shoes of your students is what marks great teachers apart from everyone else. They instinctively understand where students are getting stuck and what they need to do to unstick them.

You’ve Always Wanted To Make A Difference
Why do so many people apply for the Teach for America program every year? Simple: these are people who have always wanted to make a difference in their lives. Teaching is a profession that enables you to have an outsized impact on the next generation. 

You Don’t Like Standard Tests
Standardized tests are a necessity in the public education system. But if you don’t like them, then you are probably a born educator. You instinctively know that teaching should not be geared towards test results. Instead, what matters is the individual skill that the student acquires. That’s ultimately the whole purpose of schooling. 

You Don’t Like Grammar Mistakes
Grammatical mistakes are neither here nor there for most of us. Confusing “their” and “there” in a text message or email is no big deal. 

But if you are a teacher, you understand the importance of correct grammar. You know that when people get it wrong, they are creating confusion and making an error that could cost them in the world of work. 

You Like Helping Your Siblings
Many born educators get their start helping their siblings do their homework in the family home. You probably loved learning when you were younger and you were keen to make sure that your brothers and sisters did well too. 

When you practice something as a child, you tend to be better at it as an adult. So those who develop pedagogic skills early in life are more likely to perform well later on. 

People Tell You That You’re Great At Teaching
Teachers don’t just educate in the classroom. Instead, offering impromptu lessons to the people around them.

Having people tell you that you are a great teacher is a sure sign that that’s what you were meant to do with your life. If you’re able to cleverly explain complex topics to your friends, then you should seek ways to put that talent to use in real life. The children in your community could benefit. 

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Three Business Tips For Creative Entrepreneurs

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

As a creative, you need to be full of fresh ideas. As an entrepreneur, however, you need to be focused on business. This can be a hard juggling act. Fortunately, there are ways to make it easier. Here are three tips to help.

Develop your own organizational system
Try out some mainstream organization solutions and see if you can find one which gels with you. If not, think about what you like and dislike about what you’ve seen. Then use those ideas to put together a system that works for you.  

You may find you get on better with paper than with digital systems. Paper is a lot more straightforward and arguably more flexible than digital systems. Plus it doesn’t require batteries and gives your eyes a break from screens. You can always photograph what you write if you want a digital record of it.

You might also find it helpful to keep an “ideas book” with you at all times. That way you can jot down inspiration whenever and wherever it strikes. If you’re not a paper person then use the note-taking app on your phone or even your voice recorder.

Automate your admin
Even creatives have to deal with a lot of routine admin work. The good news is that other people have to deal with the same sorts of admin tasks. That means if there’s a way to make it easier or quicker, somebody else has probably figured it out for you.  

You can get how-to guides for pretty much anything you might need to do in business. You can also get templates for all kinds of situations. For example, did you ever think that you might need a free non-compete agreement template? Last but definitely not least, you can get free tools that can pick up a lot of the admin load.

If you have a bit of budget, then it can be well worth investing some of it in more premium tools. Accounting software should usually be at the top of your list. It’s a lot easier to use than it might sound and it really can speed up your financial tasks.

Build flexibility into your scheduling
Knowledge workers can grit their teeth and force themselves through a 9 to 5. That does not, however, necessarily work for creatives. Trying to come up with ideas when your brain just doesn’t want to is a bit like trying to force yourself to get to sleep. It’s not discipline. It’s fighting what your body and mind are trying to tell you.

Instead, keep on top of what tasks need to be done but allow yourself a bit of flexibility about when, where, and how you do them. As long as you’re clear about what your priorities are, e.g. what are your nearest deadlines, you should be absolutely fine.

You might also want to think about what work you need to do “at base” and what can be done in other places. Then think about what tools/materials you need to do that work. Try keeping them together in a bag and giving yourself a change of scenery from time to time. This doesn’t have to mean going out, although it can, it could just mean working somewhere else in your home.

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13 Ways to Travel and Make a Living

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

If you truly love to travel, chances are you want to do it more often, but job and money issues are preventing you from doing so. There is a way to change that by making a living while you travel, and you’ll be glad to know that there are many ways you can do that, some of the best you will find below... 

1. Teach English
If you want to make money while traveling the world, teaching English as a foreign language is a really good way to do it. There are so many people around the world looking for an English tutor that you can make a good living teaching English, especially in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East in particular. Since the cost of living in these areas is generally much lower than here in the US, you can make a decent living there without having to work too hard, which means plenty of time to enjoy the beaches, beauty spots, and nightlife of your chosen destination.

2. Use your knowledge to start your own travel agency
If you have a good working knowledge of traveling to a particular destination, why not leverage it to start your own online travel agency that you can operate from anywhere? Becoming a Universal Travel Agent online is a good option if you know Universal Studios well, but whatever your particular travel knowledge, you can surely leverage it to help people plan their perfect vacations, and since this can be done online, you can travel the world while you do so - what’s not to love?

3. Write a travel guide
If you’re good with words, you could research and/or write a travel guide. These jobs are not always easy to get, especially if you don’t have any experience, but if you’ve been published before, even on a blog or vlog, then you can leverage that experience to potentially work with publishers, online guides, magazine owners, etc., to get paid to travel and write about the local culture, your personal experiences, etc.  Despite what you might think, it isn’t the most lucrative profession out there in the travel industry, but it could be your way in, and as long as it covers your major expenses, it could be a great way to travel and make money at the same time.

4. Become an influencer
There might already be a significant number of influencers trying to get noticed on Insta, especially when it comes to the travel niche, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make it too. 

In order to do so, you will need to find a unique angle that no one else has thought of and/or create more interesting, informative, or even amusing content, but if you can do that, you could earn a surprising amount of money simply by posting a few images and stories each day. The only trouble is, you’ll need to start traveling and uploading for a while to gain followers in the first place, which if you have a day job, could be tricky!

5. Be a pilot or flight attendant
Becoming a pilot or flight attendant will see you jetty all around the globe, and although you will be working for much of that time, you will usually have some time to spend in the places you are flying to, which means you could see a lot of the world without paying a lot of money for the privilege, in fact, much of the time, you will be getting paid to globetrot. Obviously, it’s easier to become a flight attendant than a pilot, but pilots tend to get more travel perks so if you think you may have the aptitude for the job, why not? Anything is possible, right?

6. Become an importer or exporter
If you have some savings, and you like the idea of working for yourself, becoming an importer and/or exporter, would certainly enable you to invest your capital in a company, and spend lots of time trading too. Of course, this is not an easy route to take, and you will need to spend a lot of time touring factories and markets, bartering, and dealing with paperwork, but you’ll be the boss, so you can spend plenty of time on the beach too. If hard work doesn’t phase you, and building a business for your future is appealing, this could be the perfect way to mix work and travel and make a decent living doing so.

7. Go freelance
A really simple way to make a living while traveling is to become freelance. Whether you’re a graphic designer, accountant, copywriter, or model, you can sell your services by the hour, day, or per project, as a freelancer, and travel whenever you like. Obviously, you’ll need a skill that you can offer remotely, or which has many opportunities available to you worldwide, but other than that, all you need to do is start advertising your services and wait for the clients to start rolling in.

8. Pet/house sit
There are various websites that you can use to found clients who are looking for someone to take care of their pets, or their homes, all over the world. If you’re a trustworthy person, and you have people who can vouch for you, you could live rent-free, and get paid for the privilege in some amazing properties all around the world, and all you’ll have to do in return is water a few plants, feed a few pets, and keep an eye on security around the house. Life doesn’t get much sweeter than that.

9. Work for a cruise company
Working for a cruise line is another excellent way to see more of the world while on the job getting paid. Just remember that you will typically be expected to work long hours, and the pay may not be that good. On the other hand, you’ll get to see new and exciting places and when you do get some downtime, there are lots of great staff-only facilities, including bars and gyms where you can relax and let off steam.

10. Become a travel blogger
Travel blogging is basically all about traveling and writing about your travels. It can be an excellent way to make a living and travel at the same time, but you do need to be able to write in an engaging way to draw people in because, without traffic, you won’t get very far. That means, you may need to travel without making money for a while to build up your blog and gain followers, but if you can pull that off, it is definitely something worth thinking about because as well as making money from ads and sponsored posts, you can get a lot of free vacations thrown in if you are popular enough.

11. Become a tour guide
Tour guides show people around some of the most beautiful and interesting sights in the world. You can choose to either be a tour guide in one place, such as Prague or Paris, or you can tour the world working as a tour guide on an ad-hoc basis depending on your particular travel goals. Of course, you will need to know everything there is to know about any location you are touring if you want to make a success of it, so read up before you show up!

12. Volunteer
Okay, so you won’t exactly make a living by volunteering to build schools in Africa or helping out on a local farm in Australia, but you will often get free food and accommodation, so if you have absolutely no commitments and no need to make money right now, volunteering could be a great way to see more of the world, give something back and gain important new skills. There are volunteering opportunities all over the world, so no matter where you want to be, there is sure to be a volunteering opportunity that squirts you.

13. Act
Actors often film on location and or tour productions all over the world. So if you have a talent for acting that you haven’t been using, it might be worth thinking about what you can do to change that, whether that be taking acting classes or attending auditions. It may seem unlikely that you’ll end up as a jet-setting movie star, but you don’t have to be Scarlett Johansen to travel the world as an actor, and there are few professions more fun, so why not?

As you can see, there are a lot of viable ways to make a living while traveling all over the world. If you are serious about seeing all there is to see, you just need to choose the solution that is most likely to work for you and start planning, The more you put it off and the more you keep thinking about it without action, the less of the world you will see and the more of your life will pass you by.

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How To Welcome Your Workers Back To The Office

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

The current pandemic has affected the way small businesses operate. Some businesses successfully implemented remote working strategies, while others struggled to cope with the changes. If your business is part of the latter, you may be eager to assemble your team when the dust settles. But, welcoming furlough workers may require more than a simple phone call. You must ensure various measures are in place to promote healthy reintegration. So, do you want to get your team back and running again? Here are some tips to welcome them back. 

Make health and safety upgrades
First, you need to ensure that your office is a safe place to return to. The health of your workers is paramount, and you should put in place the necessary health and safety upgrades before your employees resume work. That includes implementing essential measures such as hand sanitizers on each desk, automatic doors, etc. These safety upgrades will make your workers feel comfortable and reassure them that you care about their health. 

Show your appreciation with your gifts
Next, you need to appreciate your workers for their efforts while working remotely, in addition to dealing with the personal challenges the pandemic brought their way. Use welcome-back gifts to show your gratitude, welcome them back, and raise their spirits about continuing where they left off pre-pandemic. Note, it's not the gifts that count but the intention behind them. You can opt for simple cards with handwritten notes or welcome them back with customized supplies at 4allpromos.com.   

Prepare your office for a hybrid team
If your workers have proven they can work from home, the primary goal of bringing them back to the office should be improving collaboration and strong connections. Besides, remote working can also be pretty isolating, especially for those that live alone. But since you cannot ignore the benefits of maintaining remote working conditions, you should consider laying out your office in a way that promotes or supports a hybrid team. Spruce up your office to make it less confining and promote connectivity. Also, maintain the structures or systems that allow your team to work from anywhere. 

Prioritize the mental health of your workers
Physical health should not be your only priority, as mental health also remains one of the most critical issues in any professional environment. Use positive reinforcements to help create a stress-free working environment. Additionally, ensure that you create flexible working hours to ensure that your workers are not stressed out. It will be close to impossible for your working team to give off its best when they're stressed out at work. 

Make every worker feel like part of a family
Finally, create a sense of belonging and make every worker feel like part of a family, not just a business. Frequently check on your workers and communicate cordially with them. You can create all-inclusive social media pages and group chats, where every single member of your business can take an active part. 

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How To Motivate Yourself When Running Your Own Business

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Running your own business often sounds like the dream. It gives you the chance to run your own company in whatever field you want and are passionate in. You spend each day working to fulfill this dream, choosing your own hours, picking where you work, and making up your own rules. Yet while it is one of the best things that you will ever do in your life, it is also one of the hardest. And there will undoubtedly be times when you wonder if it is all worth it. You will likely miss the certainty of a set paycheck every month and not having to work to pitch new clients all the time. When you find that you are feeling unmotivated and ready to give it all up, it is important that you take a step back and realize you are doing what you love. No matter if you run your own business such as IAPAM, if you are a magazine editor or a personal trainer, this will help you to get back on track.

Remember why you started your business
You started your company because it is something that you dreamt of and were passionate about. It can be easy to get caught up in everything, but you need to take a step back sometimes and remember why you started. Look at everything that you have achieved and allow yourself to be proud of what you do.

Get organized in your workspace
A messy workspace can mean a messy mind. So the next time you are feeling unmotivated, get your workspace in order. This can mean filing all your documents, giving it a spring clean, or just organizing all the items on your computer so they are in easy to find folders. Once you have done this, you will feel excited to knuckle down and get back on with your work. If you are not enjoying working from home, why not go and find a coworking space that you can use? Or even just head to your local coffee shop. A change of scenery can sometimes be the best way to get your creative juices flowing again.

Take some time off
If you are feeling stuck in a rut and nothing is working, it could indicate that you are burnt out and need a break. If this is the case, take some time off. It could be a day during the week, a weekend, or even heading off on a holiday. When you get back, you will feel happy, refreshed, and raring to get on with your tasks.

These are a few simple things that you can do when you are feeling motivated to get you back on track. By just doing one, two, or all of these things you will find that you are heading back to your normal self and loving what you do again. What are some of your top tips when running your own business? Let us know in the comments below.

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How to Earn Extra Income Even With a Full-Time Job

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

According to a survey by  Zapier, 34% of full-time employees have a form of a side hustle in the attempt of making some extra money. This figure increases from last year's 15% and may have resulted from thousands of people losing their jobs due to the coronavirus. Other critical reasons that have led to this include; shortage of cash, need to pay up a loan, or wanting extra money to pay various bills.

Regardless of the reason, here are some of the ways you can earn extra income even with a full-time job

Sell Services Online
With many companies turning to online solutions to reduce costs and expand their reach, the online services industry has increasingly grown over the past few years. The growth has also stemmed from the development of technology and the appreciation of remote work.

Offering online services is one of the easiest ways to make an extra income, even if you have a full-time job. All that you require is a computer and a WIFI connection, and you are ready to go.

Some of the online services you can offer include; Social Media Marketing Services, Digital Advertising services, Copywriting services, Online tutoring, Graphic Design Services, and Translation services.

There are so many options to choose from; therefore, research and find the one you like best. 

Get a Delivery Gig
Food and grocery delivery is one of the most popular ways of making extra cash in 2021. It involves delivering orders to customers at their office or home. This side hustle is very easy, especially with phone applications which make the order-taking process easy for you. 

Besides, it requires very little capital and gives you the pleasure of choosing your hours of operation. If you have a car or a license, you should try out this option.

Invest in Cryptocurrency
Investing in cryptocurrency is an excellent opportunity for anyone with a computer to earn a decent amount of extra money with very minimum investment. It involves using Bitcoin Mining software, which has specialized tools that use your computing power to mine cryptocurrency. The devices are automatic and do not need technical skills.

Though it may sound simple, it is advisable to reach out to a cryptocurrency expert for advice on the best software and tools to use. Furthermore, to carry out successful mining, you should also research the prices of Bitcoin; for example, you can look up Bitcoin price (AUD) to know how much you need to invest.

Selling Your Stuff Online
Millions of people are isolated at their homes during this pandemic season, leading to increased online activities. For example, many people are selling stuff online through various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and even websites.

If you are wondering where to start, start by going through your belongings and selling what you may not be using. You can also buy stuff in bulk at a low price and resell them at a profit.

Conclusion
There is no need to wait until the end of the month to have money in your account because making an extra income today is very easy. Ensure you go through the ideas discussed above and pick one that matches your skills, available time, and interest.

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Tips On Relocating For Your Career

Candy WashingtonComment
Photo by iam_os on Unsplash

Photo by iam_os on Unsplash

Hi lovelies,

Sometimes exciting career moves don’t happen on your doorstep and you have to go and find them. That might mean moving to another part of the country or even the world. Relocating for work can be exciting. New city, new people, new experiences. You never know, you may even come to call it home for the long term. 

There’s a lot more to moving city than you might think. Here are some top tips to ensure you get organized and hit the ground running in your new career. 

Decide what you’re taking with you
You might not want to move everything at first in case things don’t work out or your new place doesn’t have the room for them. 

It’ll be easier to arrange removals once you’ve decided what you’re taking with you. If you have a lot of things, you may want to investigate storage options. 

Take a few trips to your new home city
Getting to know your new home will take some of the anxiety away you might be feeling. Finding some great places to eat, shop, and hang out. You won’t feel as lost when you move there. 

Network in advance
Before you move, join any relevant local networking groups that are relevant to your new role. Reach out and ask for advice and recommendations from them, people are usually really happy to help in these kinds of groups. You may even make a few friends and connections before you arrive with people you can meet up with. 

Set a budget
The cost of a move soon racks up. If you have a relocation allowance, then this will cushion the blow a bit but if you don’t, having a budget is vital. 

Split your spending into priority items that you’ll need to buy straight away and non-essentials that you can pick up when you have some spare money. 

If you’re moving from a smaller area to a city, then the chances are that the cost of living is much higher. Find this out in advance or your money isn’t going to go far. 

Sign up for the essentials as soon as possible
Don’t leave it until you’re unwell to register at a medical practice. Getting on the patient lists at the doctor’s, dentists, ophthalmologist, etc will save you valuable time later. 

Arrange check-ins with friends and family
Moving to a new city is a big deal, and your family and friends will want to know that you’re OK. Arrange to check in with them on a regular basis so you can tell them how you are, but also so that they can raise the alarm if they don’t hear from you for a period of time. 

Final thoughts 
Your head is probably spinning with nerves, excitement, and realizing just how much you have to do to get everything ready for your move. If it all seems very overwhelming, try breaking it down into more manageable tasks and see if that helps you deal with your to-do list. 

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4 Important Careers That Change the World

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

We are at a time where making the world a better place is essential for our survival. We can do our part to make it a better place. Part of our own self-care is helping others to be their best selves while we achieve the same. There are careers out there that can help contribute to the world in a positive way.  Here are four important careers that help change the world. 

Social Work
Everyone needs a little help sometimes, and being a social worker helps you be there for people who need it the most. Social workers help people work through their problems and find a place in the world where they belong and where they can thrive. Social workers are also able to treat and diagnose mental illnesses and behavioral issues. For many people, their social worker is their lifeline and support system when life is at its most dark. That kind of help and love goes a long way and can change a life from bad to good overnight. 

Education
We have all seen the movies and TV shows where the teacher comes and saves the day by influencing a child’s life. Entertainment has created many of these stories because there is a kernel of truth in every one of them. Educators are sometimes the best role models for young children who don’t have a positive role model anywhere else in their lives. Teachers are educated, natural leaders, and are a kind of stability for kids. Educators have the opportunity to reach out and change a child’s life and play a major role in molding them for the future, inspiring them to be their best, and to forge a plan for the future where they can have a successful and wonderful life. 

Nursing
In recent years, we have all learned how essential nurses are to the world. Long hours, helping patients, and saving lives are all in a day’s work. Although the work can sometimes be grueling, nurses are the backbone of the medical world and healthcare system and without them, many patients may not have the courage and strength to get well and save their own lives. Nurses start off around $60,000 per year, and with a masters you can earn more. You can easily get an online msn (Master of Science in Nursing) and add about $30,000 per year to your salary. Nursing is a high paying job that changes lives every moment. 

Community Service Manager
Community service managers are the real workers behind getting community programs off the ground and fully operational. In many neighborhoods, children and the elderly need programs that help them remain active, integrated, and learning. Although many people may have great ideas, it’s the service manager who puts the weight behind an idea and finds a way to make it happen. Social programs can change an entire community for the better, making it safer and thriving, and none of that would happen without someone pushing the idea along.

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Motivating Yourself To Make a Big Career Change

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

When we first embark on our chosen career path, life can seem like it’s full of unique opportunities. With mysteries to uncover at every corner and unforgettable experiences to seek out, it’s fairly easy to stay motivated knowing that there’s always a new goal to reach for. However, sooner or later, you might end up in a situation where you no longer possess that spark you once had.

This is extremely common for most people. In fact, once you pass the age of 40, your chances of experiencing a midlife crisis increase every year. Unless you’ve managed to find yourself a career path that constantly throws unique challenges, there’s a good chance that you’ll become apathetic, complacent, or even just lazy. When this happens, it’s easy to lose sight of the goals you once had and you’ll find yourself living out each day with almost no motivation to shoot for higher goals.

If you think this may be happening to you, then it might be time to try and motivate yourself to a career change. In this post, we’ll be talking about a few of the best ways that you can encourage yourself to make a career switch.

How do you know when it’s time to make a career switch?
But when exactly is it a good time to make a career switch? It’s difficult to tell without having some kind of sign to look out for, so here are some things to be aware of.

  • Your salary no longer matters. If you feel like you have plenty of financial security and you’d be perfectly fine with a smaller salary, then there’s a good chance that money is no longer a motivator for you. This is perfectly understandable since many people are looking for a purpose and not just money.

  • You’re getting complacent. If you take your work too lightly and it’s caused troubles in the past, then it could be a sign that you’re lacking motivation or drive to put in the extra work and make sure you’re finishing all your tasks quickly and efficiently.

  • You feel lazy all the time. If you feel like it’s difficult for you to focus at work or if you’re constantly late with your assignments, then it’s a sign that you might be losing motivation and are due for a career change.

  • You dread starting work. If you hate going to work in the morning or even dread the thought of turning on your computer to start remote working, then it sounds like you’re in need of a job change.

  • You dream about a different career path. A lot of people dream about different jobs, but if you’re constantly having thoughts about changing your career and trying something new, then why not go through with it? Consider chasing those dreams of following a different career to motivate you.

  • Your personal life is being affected. A lot of people tend to separate their work and personal life, but there may be situations where your personal life can be negatively affected because of your work life. If this is the case for you, then it’s a bad sign and you may want to consider switching your career.

  • You feel like you’ve lost your sense of purpose. Do you feel like you’ve lost your sense of purpose at work? Perhaps you’re no longer attached to your work, or maybe you don’t enjoy the work you do anymore. If this is the case, then it may be time for a career change

  • You feel like you’re replaceable. Lastly, if you feel like your role is completely replaceable, then it can be difficult to muster up the motivation to continue. It makes you feel like you’re just a number and it makes it extremely hard to go the extra mile for your company.

Reconsider what your values and priorities are
At this stage, it’s a good idea to start thinking about what to do next. Now that you’ve identified that you’re really in need of a career change, what kind of steps should you be taking to make sure it happens? Who should you be talking to? Where should you start looking? Answering these questions and reconsidering what your values and priorities are will make it a lot easier to facilitate a career change.

Facilitating a career change
If you’ve identified that you’re in need of a career change, then there are a couple of steps to take and a few things to keep in mind before you start moving forward.

Have you assessed your own abilities?
First, make sure you’ve assessed your own abilities and are able to list all of your strengths. This is usually done on a resume or a CV to help potential employers understand where your experience comes from and what your qualifications are.

Do you have an employer in mind, or do you want to be self-employed?
If you’re searching for a new job then you’ll typically want to start looking at job boards and networking. Alternatively, you could also consider becoming self-employed if you prefer to work for yourself for a change. This is a completely different way of working and can be extremely rewarding if you’re a self-motivated individual.

Do you think you’ll need more training?
If the career switch you want involves learning new skills, then you’ll want to consider online learning to help you pick up new skills that can be used in the new role. Online learning is one of the best ways to learn new skills without having to go through the academic process, and you’d be surprised at how affordable it is and the real credentials you can earn with online learning platforms.

Do you have any contacts in the industry?
Lastly, if possible, try and speak with any contacts that you might have in the industry. If you’ve been working in your role for a long time then there’s a good chance that you’ve made some friends along the way and have picked up a few business cards. If you’re looking for a new career change, then it’s important to consider networking as a crucial component to help you search for a job.

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PPC Tips For Small Business

Candy WashingtonComment
Image - free for commercial use

Image - free for commercial use

Hi lovelies,

Internet marketers often ask the same questions about PPC. What price should they set for a successful PPC campaign? Which PPC platforms are the best to use? How should you measure the performance of PPC? What kind of PPC advertisement should you write?

These tips will help you get well on your way to running effective campaigns for your small business.

Start small
Unless you’re working with professional PPC services, it’s a better idea to start out small with your campaigns. Managing multiple adverts and budgets at the same time can be confusing, and it’s easy to spend a lot of money very quickly if you’re not careful.

Start out with one campaign on Google AdWords. This is one of the most popular platforms because it can get your business seen on the most used search engine in the world. It’s also much easier to track your analytics if you only have one campaign happening at once. As you get used to the way PPC works, you can add in some more campaigns.

Be specific
The PPC campaigns that are set up by small businesses who don’t have a lot of PPC experience often only use broad keywords as they think that these will increase their chances of reaching the most customers. In fact, this is a waste of time, and it also has a terrible ROI.

Be as specific as you can be with the keywords that you target with PPC campaigns. Instead of trying to have your ads be shown to people who have searched for “restaurants in Birmingham,” which will probably have a very high cost per click,  you should instead target people who search for “Thai restaurants in Birmingham.” This will cost you less to bid on, but will also make sure that the people who see your advert are actually looking for a restaurant, or other business, like yours.

Use strong language
This doesn’t mean offensive language. What it does mean is using language that will grab people’s attention.

Vague headlines get vague returns on investment, but strong headlines get strong results. If you’re not sure if your headline is good enough, ask someone else to take a look. If you can’t decide between two headlines, consider trying an A/B split test to determine which one works better.

Use geographic keywords
One of the best ways to maximize your PPC budget is to geo-target your ads and use language that works well for your area. For example, instead of just mentioning the city you’re in, mention specific neighborhoods. People from out of town might not know where they are but are these people a part of your demographic? 

Include clear calls to action
You want your PPC prospects to do something specific, so tell them exactly what that is. PPC ads often don’t have a clear call to action, which is pointless. One action is all you need. Your prospect won’t have to think about what to do next, because you’ve told them.

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