If you're considering franchising, this comprehensive guide provides the information you need to make an informed decision. Franchising is a...
If you're considering franchising, this comprehensive guide provides the information you need to make an informed decision. Franchising is a...
It is heartbreaking to find out that eleven million children in the U.S. did not have access to sufficient and nutritious food.
The United States Department of Agriculture reports that there are about 37 million Americans who suffered from food insecurity in 2018. Estimates put the number to one in every nine Americans.
Most people would surely ask how this thing happened to a wealthy country identified as a superpower? Indeed, why is there food insecurity in America despite their abundance?
Let’s try to find out…
Hunger Versus Food Insecurity
The estimated 37 million Americans who didn’t have food security suffered from hunger because they were not able to eat regular, nutritious meals on a daily basis.
However, hunger is not the same as food insecurity. Hunger is a physical need that can be satisfied by eating a meal or a snack. Food insecurity, on the other hand, is the inability of a person to gain access to regular food supply that is rich in nutrients.
Experts say food security exists only when a person can buy food when he needs it, and the food should have abundant supply, as well as abundant in nutrients that would make the person physically fit.
It is not sufficient that there is available food, it has to be nutritious. So even if there is plenty of food but most of it are junk foods like burgers, pizzas, fries, etc., there is food insecurity.
Food Insecurity and Poverty
Poor people do not necessarily suffer from food insecurity. The same way that rich people are not immune to food insecurity.
Low income people could have the means to buy food for their daily needs, and these foods could be nutritious. As they do not have much, they would most often have money only for vegetables and occasionally, for meat.
The health of people in low income brackets are also affected by other factors aside from the absence of nutrient-rich foods. Problems such as low income, lack of proper housing, lack of money for addressing health concerns, etc. can affect their overall well-being.
The Faces of Food Insecurity
Food insecurity affects all sectors of the community, all ages (young and old), and all races (Caucasians, Latinos, etc.).
Families facing food insecurity also often choose cheaper food rather than nutritious foods. An estimated 25 percent of those affected are children.
It is also important to note that food insecurity is not confined to these communities. Studies say it is happening in communities across the country.
Food security is no longer confined to the definition of being able to provide adequate food for the people. Its meaning has evolved with the changing times and situations.
Food security now refers to having a secure and sufficient food that is readily available for consumers when the need arises. The food must not only satisfy hunger, it must also provide a person’s required daily nutrient-intake.
Can the current food supply sustain the food requirements of the people in the future? The answer would depend on how governments and the population are responding to threats that are affecting food supply. Here are some of them:
Factors Affecting Food Supply
The earth is getting warmer and warmer due to a hole in the ozone layer. This major problem is manifesting itself in crop production that is often affected by bad weather such as drought or long dry spells, lack of water supply, and much more.
Climate change is also drying up a huge mass of the land that used to yield good crops. Now, a huge number of lands is no longer fit for crop growing and animal raising. It is estimated that in about 30 years, around 40 percent of the earth’s total land mass will no longer be viable for agriculture or farming.
The increasing demand for water all over the world is depleting water tables. The need to produce more food supply has led to continuous pumping of water for irrigating crops. Potable water is also becoming scarce as water pumps also continuously draw water and pump it to water service depots to provide drinking water, as well as potable water for producing various beverages.
More people equal to a need for more food. In order to supply the food needs of the growing population, agricultural lands are getting abused for food production which requires water for irrigation, thus depleting water resources.
Current statistics place Asia at the top spot with the highest population growth. It is expected to gain a 4.4 billion increase in population by the year 2025.
Capitalists are abusing huge farm lands for mass production and distribution of agricultural products. This practice is causing soil erosion and depletion of vital soil nutrients. Farms are unable to recuperate the loss of nutrients because of their continuous use.
This has caused a decline in agricultural production, as well as land pollution due to the use of various fertilizers that aim to increase yields. Big corporations in developing countries are also gaining access to acres and acres of land for mass producing agricultural products.
Greedy companies have introduced genetically modified food to increase food production. The safety of this type of food is still undergoing research and studies, but earlier findings indicate it could be unsafe for human consumption. Crops like soya and maize are already being grown using genetically modified seeds.
It is important that the people keep watch of these issues, and be proactive in helping secure food supply for the future and for the next generation. The steps that will be taken to address these threats now will greatly dictate the future of food security.
The dictionary defines ‘sustainable’ as something that can be upheld or maintained within a certain period and at a certain level.
When you say ‘sustainable agriculture’, it means farming as a viable enterprise that can sustain a farmer’s living, as well as adequately provide for the needs of the people and the community in general.
With the growing problem on climate change, experts estimate that in 20 to 30 years, only 60 of the world’s land mass will be viable for crop planting. Add to this the fact that a lot of farmers are already losing interest in farming because of their declining income from it due to severe weather disturbances and infestation.
So, how will the world’s booming population have sufficient food in the near future? Let’s understand several factors affecting the sustainability of agriculture and see if it has the capacity to sustain humanity’s future food needs.
Sustainable agriculture must be economically viable.
For a farm to be sustainable, the farmer must have sufficient capital to buy seedlings for growing crops, or for buying animals raised for food.
Add to this the cost of labor for planting or animal raising, labor for care of the crops and animals, fuel for machineries, etc.
If the expenses for these farming needs can be recuperated from the sales or proceeds of the crops and animals, with remaining earnings after the deduction of the total production cost, then farming can be considered economically viable.
An economically viable farming must be able to sustain its expenses by earning from the harvests or animal sales that are sold in the market and consumed by the people. The farmer should be able to live decently from the farm’s earnings.
In addition to this, the soil must also be fertile for it to be productive. It must be fit for planting crops and for raising animals. If it’s depleted of essential nutrients, crops will not grow abundantly, and animals will not have grass to feed on.
Sustainable agriculture must be environment-friendly.
Sustainable farming must be able to restore and not deplete the nutrients of the land because it is its very source of income. Without a fertile land, no farmer can gain profitably from crop production.
Sustainable agriculture aims to protect the environment by employing soil-friendly products that would enhance this natural resource. Non-chemical farm enhancers and alternatives like organic fertilizers must be used so as not to pollute the land and water beneath it.
Water is a very vital part of farming because it provides life to plants. Without water, no plants will ever grow properly.
Sustainable agriculture must enhance the farmer’s quality of life.
As the word connotes, agriculture must ‘sustain’ a quality life for the farmer. This means it should improve the farmer’s living conditions, not just allow the farmer to survive on a day to day basis. He should have enough money to provide for his basic needs like food and clothing, as well as enough money for contingency purposes, as well as for his children’s education, payment for utilities, etc.
Governments all over the world have taken notice of sustainable agriculture and are devising ways to support it. Sustainable farming practices like promoting crop diversity, less soil tilling to avoid soil erosion, minimizing the use of chemical pesticides, and numerous other healthier farm practices are being implemented. If these are observed properly, humanity can be assured of sufficient food in the future.
Would there be enough food for humanity 10 or 20 years from now?
Experts estimate that there will be about nine billion people on the planet in 2050 that will need to eat and drink. Feeding this huge number of people is a big challenge to world leaders. The United Nations has written down goals in order to achieve food security in the future. Leaders at the World Economic Forum have also crafted action plans to address the need.
Studies have also looked into possible obstacles in carrying out a secure food supply in the future. Let us look into these issues below:
Food Wastes – Experts believe it is not enough to increase food production to meet future food needs if the current population keeps wasting food. Rich countries have sufficient, if not an oversupply, of food for its population. However, a lot of these foods go to waste.
A good example is fast food restaurants that throw away uneaten food that are supposed to be still edible. Supermarkets also hugely contribute to food waste by throwing away vegetables and other consumables that are still edible but no longer look pleasing to consumers.
Population Growth – The worldometers.info website currently places the world population at 7.7 million. Statistics indicate that the world population is increasing at the rate of 1.08 percent or about 82 million people annually.
Asia has the highest percentage of increase, with China as the country with the biggest population worldwide, currently at 1.4 billion.
Changing Food Tastes – Rich economies are seeing a shift in people’s food preferences. There is now a higher demand for processed foods, as well as meat and dairy. The demand for these food products is putting pressure on agriculture to produce more grains to feed animals used for meat consumption. The European Union, Canada, and the US are reported as the countries with the highest livestock and meat consumption on a daily basis.
Climate Change – The climate change affecting the world today is heading towards hotter temperatures that are converting agricultural and tillable lands into deserts or arid lands not worthy for planting crops. It is estimated that about 40 percent of the world’s land is no longer fit for planting. If this persists, the agricultural lands available will no longer be sufficient for planting crops that can feed the human population in 2050.
Water Crisis – Without sufficient water supply, farmlands will not be able to yield crops sufficiently. About 28 percent of the world’s farmlands are located in regions that lack sufficient water supply.
Loss of Interest in Farming – The increasing losses in farm crops is making it difficult for farmers to earn a good amount of money that would allow them to survive decently. Because of this, more and more farmers are losing interest in tilling the land, and are finding alternative sources of revenue. Some are also converting their lands to other uses like commercial use.
Much work is needed to implement the action plans geared towards sustaining the food requirements of the future. No time should be wasted in solving this need!
Do you have enough food? What does having enough food actually mean?
There are several answers to these questions, and it all boils down to having a secure food supply. It means being able to buy sufficient food if you have the means to buy them. And that’s not all, it has to be food with sufficient or adequate nutrients needed by the body.
These are some of the complex descriptions when talking about food security. Food security means people do not experience hunger and lack of nutrition.
Remember ancient Egypt? Back then, the pharaoh orders grain harvests to be kept in large storage and opened when food becomes scarce. Modern times have made storing food easier and longer. Nations with adequate food supply do not have to worry about their citizens going hungry. This is what food security is all about.
Food Security Defined
The World Food Summit of 1996 has given a complete and precise definition of what food security means, to wit:
Food security “exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.”
Based on this, it is clear that food security is not just having enough food; the food should also be nutritious.
A household is said to have food security when all the family members are able to eat sufficiently in order to keep themselves physically fit.
Food security is also defined by food utilization, stability, access, and availability. Food is properly utilized when it meets the nutritional requirement of the body; Food is stable when people are able to obtain it as time passes; Food is accessible when there is enough supply that can be bought at a reasonable price; and, food is available when its production and distribution is sufficient.
Food security also means having enough food supply for years to come despite unforeseeable circumstances like damage to crops due to bad weather, problems with distribution, economic or financial instability, etc.
Status of Food Security in the World
While some countries are secure with their food supply, others are not as lucky.
Statistics for the years 2011 to 2013 indicate that around 842 million people suffered from chronic hunger. Chronic hunger is defined as a persistent lack of food to eat, and the inability to eat nutrient-rich food. Most often, it is the inability to buy food for one’s daily consumption.
The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization also reported that in 2018, there were about 700 million people (or more than nine percent of the world’s population) who suffered from hunger and severe lack of food.
Food Security Versus Food Safety
As previously defined, ‘Food Security’ refers to the sufficiency of food supply that is adequate in nutrients needed by the body.
This should not be confused with ‘Food Safety’ which refers to the way food is prepared, handled, and stored to prevent spoilage that could cause food-borne diseases.
If you’re considering franchising, this comprehensive guide provides the information you need to make an informed decision.
Franchising is a way of achieving business ownership with instant name recognition and access to training and support that can help you succeed. Also, seek legal and financial advice before investing.
Franchising is a system in which one party (the franchisor) licenses the use of its trademarks, trade names or business systems to another party (the franchisee). The franchisee pays a fee to receive rights to sell products and services under that name.
The franchisee must comply with the terms of the franchise agreement. This often includes paying a percentage of sales to the franchisor. The franchisee may also be required to advertise the business according to a set advertising plan. When starting a franchise, you must first learn the basics and the field of franchising.
Franchise agreements usually run for 10 to 20 years. When the contract term ends, the franchisee can renew or can choose to terminate the relationship with the franchisor. However, the franchisor has the right to refuse a renewal or to offer a different deal than was offered in the original contract.
Before investing in a franchise, you should conduct thorough research. This means reading the required disclosure document and talking with current and former franchisees. You should also talk with industry experts, such as accountants and lawyers experienced in franchise law. These professionals can help you analyze the financial disclosures, assess any earnings projections and understand the assumptions behind those projections. They can also help you find a franchise that matches your investment resources and goals.
A major consideration is whether the franchise model you are considering has a patent, trademark or copyright, which protects the business name and logo of the brand. In addition, you should check if the franchisor is registered with any government agencies, such as the Better Business Bureau or local consumer protection agencies.
Franchising is a popular way for businesses to expand because it reduces their capital investment and risk. In the franchise business model, one party (the franchisor) offers its brand name, expertise and intellectual property to another independent party (the franchisee). The franchisee pays a fee at the beginning and agrees to operate the business according to established guidelines in return for the right to use the franchiser’s name.
The franchisor also typically has a detailed business plan designed to guide the franchisee. This may include a list of approved suppliers, marketing plans and suggestions for operations and recordkeeping. There are three main types of franchises: business format franchises, product distribution franchises and manufacturing franchises. The most common type is a business format franchise, where the franchisor licenses a particular business model and operating system to a franchisee.
Some of the key advantages to owning a franchise are a ready-made business formula, support from an experienced team and brand recognition. However, there are also certain risks involved, including high initial costs and the potential for low profits. It’s essential to thoroughly research a franchise before investing any money. This includes studying the required disclosure document, talking to existing franchisees and visiting the location you’re considering.
When researching a franchise, pay attention to the executive team. Look for their general business experience, whether they have any special backgrounds in managing the franchise and how long they’ve been with the company. You should also find out if the franchise has ever been in litigation and read complaints filed by consumers or franchisees with the Better Business Bureau and your state’s consumer protection agency.
The disclosure document contains important information about the franchise, including the franchisor’s history, the cost of opening and operating the business and the rules and regulations that you must follow. This information can help you decide if the franchise is a good fit for your goals and financial resources. The documents should also detail any restrictions on how you can run your franchise, such as a requirement that you operate within a certain territory.
Franchising is a business model that allows an established entrepreneur to license some or all of its brand, products and services to someone who wants to operate a new business under that brand in a specific location. The relationship is governed by a written contract known as a franchise agreement.
A franchisee is an individual or company that invests money in exchange for the right to sell goods and/or services under the franchisor’s brand name at a specified geographic area for a certain period of time. Franchisees are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their franchise and must comply with strict guidelines and rules set by the franchisor. In return, the franchisor provides ongoing support, advice and training.
Since then, many other companies have adopted the franchise business model, including hotel chains and retail stores. Even small businesses such as lawn care services and home health aides have been franchised. In recent years, social firms that employ disabled and disadvantaged people have also been franchised. This type of franchising is known as social franchising or impact sourcing.
There are three main categories of franchising: business format, product distribution and manufacturing. Most franchises fall under the business format category, where the franchisor licenses its brand, products and operating systems to a person who wants to open and operate a business in a given territory. This is the most common type of franchise.
A product distribution franchise involves selling a brand’s products at multiple locations, but the franchisee does not follow the franchisor’s business model or operations. This is more of a supplier-dealer arrangement. It is often used by retailers that sell automotive parts, computers or farm and construction equipment.
A territory is a specific geographic area that belongs to or is under the control of a person, organization or thing. For example, countries defend their territories during wars and dogs mark their territory by peeing on it. The term can also refer to a company’s sales territory, which is the area it is responsible for selling products or services within.
When a business expands through franchising, it creates a territory for each franchisee to operate in. The franchisee is granted the right to sell its brand of products or services in exchange for an initial investment from the franchisor. Typically, the investment is made up of an upfront franchise fee and ongoing royalties, which are paid to the franchisor on each sale.
The territory is a way for the franchisee to get started quickly by using the branding, trademarks and proprietary operating processes of the franchisor. The territory also comes with a training program and ongoing support from the franchisor. This is an important aspect of the franchise model as it allows a new franchisee to enter the marketplace without having to create their own business from the ground up.
Unlike states, territories don’t have broad powers over their own affairs and must answer to the federal government in Washington. However, they can levy taxes and have representation in Congress through the Department of the Interior. In addition, they can form partnerships with other governments and international organizations to help them achieve their goals.
For a territory to become a state, it must meet certain criteria, including being settled with enough people and having a local government that is compatible with the U.S. Constitution. It must also demonstrate a desire to become a state, which is typically determined through a popular vote. If a territory meets the necessary requirements, Congress can admit it as a State under Article IV of the U.S. Constitution.
Franchising is a fast-growing business model that provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to start their own businesses with the backing of an experienced franchisor. The franchisee will pay an initial investment, known as a franchise fee, in return for the right to use the brand name and proprietary operating systems of the franchisor. In addition, the franchisee will receive comprehensive training, ongoing support and access to a network of other franchisees.
Many people get frustrated on the road. However, getting angry or losing your cool behind the wheel can put you in danger.
To avoid being a victim of road rage, there are a few things you can do to stay calm and drive safely. Here are some tips:
It can be difficult to maintain control behind the wheel, especially when another driver acts aggressively. However, you don’t have to let their actions escalate into a dangerous road-rage incident that puts you and your passengers in danger. In fact, you can use a few simple steps to prevent road-rage incidents from occurring and keep your family safe on the roads.
Listening to music while driving is a great way to relax and help you stay calm. The soothing sounds of classical or your favorite songs can distract you from any stressful events on the road and give you a positive boost to keep you centered. The same applies to listening to podcasts or audiobooks while you’re on a long drive. It’s a great way to pass the time and learn something new that can help you in the future.
If you encounter an aggressive driver, try to avoid making sudden movements and don’t engage with them. This is particularly important if they are driving recklessly or aggressively, as their anger and frustration may turn into violence. This can put you and your passengers in danger. Avoid gesturing, honking or swearing at them and avoiding eye contact with them as well.
If you can’t get away from the person, pull over somewhere safe and take a deep breath. This will calm you down in a matter of seconds and give you the ability to return to your driving safely. You can even try counting backwards from 10 if you’re having trouble keeping your cool. In the end, controlling your temper is the only thing you have any control over when you’re on the road.
If you feel your stress level rising, try relaxing your muscles to help calm yourself. Simply adjusting your posture and squeezing your shoulders can help ease tension that might be building up. You can also try to keep your hands loose on the steering wheel. This will allow you to use them as needed but not overreact if someone cuts you off or makes a sudden move.
Many people have trouble separating road rage from aggressive driving, but there are several important differences. The most obvious is that road rage behavior includes the potential for violence, whereas aggression behind the wheel can be much more subtle.
Aggressive driving is when a driver exhibits a range of unsafe behaviors on the road, from tailgating to changing lanes without signaling. Road rage is when the driving behaviors cross over into specific acts of violence, such as gesturing, cursing and threatening. The latter can pose a threat not just to other drivers but to passengers and pedestrians as well. Wiltshire’s surprising road rage statistics revealed more about road rage capitals in the world.
In fact, it’s not uncommon for angry drivers to end up in a physical altercation on the road. There are even a few cases of people who have shot at other drivers on the road. Getting into it with another driver can be disastrous, so it’s best to leave the road if you see signs of road rage.
Besides, letting another person’s bad mood affect you will only lead to disaster on the road. Getting too wound up will cause you to lose focus and put you at risk of having an accident. Angry drivers are often trying to intimidate or provoke you, so avoid eye contact and don’t engage in conversation.
It can be tempting to lash out when you get cut off or someone swerves into your lane, but letting your anger build can put you and other drivers at risk. Whether it’s yelling, gesturing or honking, aggressive reactions to road rage incidents can lead to dangerous and even deadly situations on the road. Instead of reacting, take a deep breath and focus on remaining calm to diffuse the situation before it escalates.
The cause of road rage can vary from person to person, but oftentimes it is caused by an uncontrolled temper rather than criminal intent. Controlling your own anger can help to prevent road rage and avoid becoming the victim of one of the 5 million costly vehicle collisions that occur each year in the U.S.
Getting enough sleep and managing your stress levels are also crucial to safe driving. Driving drowsy can have the same effect as being under the influence of alcohol, and it can significantly increase your chance for an accident. If you have a busy schedule and a tight deadline, plan ahead by getting adequate rest the night before your drive to ensure that you’re well rested and ready to tackle the road.
It’s been quite a year on the planet: wildfires, locust swarms, economic challenges, earthquakes and even murder hornets have taxed people’s nerves to the point of losing their cool behind the wheel. It’s not surprising that 2020 may have been the most stressful year on record for many Americans, which could contribute to their heightened sensitivity and reactionary responses in traffic situations. Taking the time to mentally prepare before you hit the road can be the difference between a fender bender and a fatal incident.
It can be hard to keep calm when you’re driving around a person who is aggressive behind the wheel, but it’s imperative to your safety and that of everyone in your vehicle. If a driver is tailgating you or otherwise acting aggressively, try to distance yourself from them by slowing down or changing lanes.
Angry drivers can be unpredictable, and their behavior could escalate into something dangerous and deadly. In a study, 7 percent of respondents admitted to getting out of their car to physically confront another driver, and 6 percent even got into a physical fight. In addition to that, a lot of rage-related incidents begin with something small like cutting someone off or refusing to let them pass.
In many cases, the best thing you can do is to ignore the rage-inducing behaviors of other drivers and focus on the road ahead of you. Using the horn or swearing at the other driver can turn a minor situation into a full-blown altercation, which can put you in danger.
The best way to prevent this is to leave early for your destination and drive safely. Limiting alcohol is also important because it can affect your reaction time and make you prone to rageful responses. Playing soothing music can help you relax, but make sure it isn’t too loud—research has shown that listening to music above 95 decibels can cause a 20% slower reaction time. Putting pictures of loved ones on your dashboard can also help to reduce stress while you’re driving. Remember that the most important goal of your trip is to arrive at your destination safely. Your family depends on you!
More than half of all drivers have experienced a flash of road rage at one time or another. And while not all of them bang into an offending vehicle or throw a helpless puppy into the highway, rage-induced behavior is still responsible for tens of thousands of accidents each year.
It’s easy to let frustrations on the road build until they become full-blown anger and violence behind the wheel, but you can use these tips to keep yourself calm and safe in the car. The first step is getting enough sleep the night before. Studies show that driving drowsy is as dangerous as driving while drunk.
Leaving yourself plenty of time to get where you need to be can also help to ease your stress while driving. If you’re under pressure to arrive in a timely manner, it can be easy to lose your temper when something goes wrong on the road.
In addition, staying focused on the road is important. If you’re distracted, it can be very easy to accidentally pass a stopped vehicle or pull out in front of someone. The last thing you want is to have a potentially deadly accident because you were not paying attention or reacting appropriately to the situation.
If you feel yourself getting angry while driving, take a break and walk around the block to cool off. If you’re able to calm down, return to the driver’s seat and continue your journey. Do not escalate the situation by yelling or honking at other drivers, as it could put you in danger. You should also try to distance yourself from a dangerous or erratic driver by slowing down or changing lanes, but never speed up.
Flying internationally can be a thrilling and exciting experience. However, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into.
International flights are long and can be uncomfortable if you don’t prepare for them. To make your next international flight more enjoyable here are 8 Things You Need to Know About International Flights.
For international flights, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport early. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and get to your gate.
This is especially important if you are traveling during peak travel times, such as around holidays or school vacations. It will also help you avoid any unnecessary delays, such as long lines at security.
It is important to note that while many airlines recommend arriving at the airport three hours before your flight, this may not be enough time to get through all of the necessary steps. In addition to checking in, you will need to provide your passport and any other documents required for your destination country.
You will also need to check in your bags. This can be done online or at the airport. It is a good idea to check the bag cutoff times for your specific airline, as they can vary. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination only to find out that your bag did not make it on the plane!
When flying internationally, it is always best to have at least one change of clothes and any essential toiletries in your carry-on suitcase or personal item. This way, if your luggage gets lost in transit, you will have some clean clothing to wear until it is returned to you. In addition, it is a good idea to pack a few snacks and a bottle of water in your carry-on as well.
Check with your airline for the exact details of their baggage allowances. They will likely differ between domestic and international flights, as well as between direct and connecting flights. In addition, the regulations of the country to which you are traveling may also impact your checked bag allowances.
Remember that when traveling internationally, you will need to present your passport at the airport and any necessary visa or proof of onward or return travel for your destination. It is also a good idea to upload digital copies of all of your documents to the cloud in case they are lost or damaged in transit.
Long flights are hard on the body, especially when sitting in one position for hours at a time. Stretching can help improve blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system, lubricating the joints and muscles. Some good stretches to do include marching in place, standing twists, and heel raises.
It’s also important to get up and move around the cabin every so often. This will not only help ease jet lag but it can also help reduce the risk of blood clots during your flight. The CDC recommends that anyone who is traveling for more than four hours take a walk at least every two hours.
A great way to stretch is to stand with your feet together and then circle them at the ankles, first clockwise then counterclockwise. This can help relieve tightness in the lower back and spine. You can also grab your elbows and gently sway your body left and right to loosen up the shoulders. This helps with neck stiffness, as well. This can be done in your seat or while waiting to use the restroom.
Flying can be a scary experience for even seasoned travelers and it can seem even more intimidating when you are traveling internationally. However, it is important to keep in mind that flying internationally can be much easier than you might think.
Just remember to be prepared, stay hydrated and try to sleep as much as you can. If you are interested in learning why humanitarian fares were dropped by American Airlines, this is outlined on View From the Wing.
Another thing to keep in mind is that jet lag can ruin your trip. If you can, try to wake up and go to bed at the same time as your destination’s time zone. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water during your flight and stay away from alcohol and caffeine.
Finally, it is always a good idea to let someone know where you are going. This way, if something goes wrong, they can contact the proper authorities on your behalf. They can also help if you need a taxi or if something is stolen. This is especially important if you are traveling alone. Just be sure to let someone know where you are and check in with them frequently.
It is important to bring your medication when traveling, even for a short flight. It is especially important if you are traveling abroad, as the medications you take may not be available in your destination country. For this reason, it is important to consult with your prescribing doctor before your trip and review the airlines’ and countries’ regulations for traveling with prescription medications (including their generic names) and medical devices such as needles and syringes.
It is also a good idea to ask your doctor to label your medication in multiple doses or packets, based on the times of day you need to take it. This will make it easier to pack and will help you stay on schedule with your dosing. If your medication requires refrigeration, there are many travel-safe storage options to choose from. Also, remember that if your airline offers special meal options, order them at the time of booking to reduce wait time during your flight.
It’s so easy to get distracted by the in-flight entertainment or social media, but there’s nothing better than diving into a good book on an international flight. Having something to read makes the hours fly by and gives you a taste of what your destination will be like when you arrive.
You’ll also want to bring a book if you have a layover in a different country. With COVID-19 still impacting many airports and countries, restaurants may be closed or have long lines. If you have a book in your carry on, you’ll be prepared for whatever the day brings.
Just remember to keep it light, as you don’t want your books to take up too much space in your carry on. A zipped canvas cover is an excellent solution and you can find them in most markets or online. They’re perfect for Kindles or just holding your book while you’re traveling! You can even find ones that have a little pocket for passports. That way, you’ll have your documents ready for when you land.
International flights can be long and it is important to have a change of clothes when arriving at your destination. This can also be helpful if your luggage is lost or delayed.
A change of clothes can also help you feel refreshed after the flight. If you are traveling to a warm destination, it is also a good idea to bring some light clothing to wear while there.
It is important to arrive at the airport early so that you can check in and clear security before your flight. You should also make sure to pack all necessary documents and travel paperwork for your trip. Additionally, you should research your international destination to learn what the customs are and if you need any vaccinations.
It is also a good idea to bring a sleeping mask and neck pillow to help you sleep during the flight. Finally, it is a good idea to drink a lot of water so that you can stay hydrated during the flight.
Traveling internationally can be a daunting experience for many first timers. With long flights and visa requirements it can seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. With some extra preparation and knowledge flying internationally can be just as easy as domestic travel.
During an international flight it is important to bring a camera to capture all the beauty of your trip. It is also helpful to have a sleep mask and neck pillow because long flights can be very uncomfortable. Bringing entertainment like crosswords and sudokus can help pass the time as well.
When flying internationally make sure all your electronic devices are fully charged. The last thing you want is your phone dying halfway through the flight. Aside from this be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water. The plane dehydrates you quickly and it is important to drink enough water so you don’t get sick from altitude. Also remember to bring travel insurance.
Gardening themes are fun, help you narrow down your planting choices and can increase the appeal of your landscape. Gardens can be themed around flowers, shapes or food. They can also focus on a particular hobby or interest, such as a reading garden or butterfly garden.
Themes can be as simple or complex as you want them to be. Here are some ideas:
Having a theme garden helps provide structure to the garden. While lines and form are the bones of a garden, color brings the body. Color creates contrast and evokes emotion. Warm colors (reds and oranges) are energizing while cool colors (blues and greens) create calm and relaxation.
Theme gardens can include color schemes in a variety of ways. One option is to use analogous colors, which are colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel. This gives the garden a sense of harmony without being too busy.
Another option is to go monochromatic, using varying shades of the same color throughout the garden. This is a simple way to create a big impact of color.
Themes can also be based on a particular flower or vegetable. For example, an alphabet garden can be centered around edible plants that begin with each letter of the alphabet. This is a great way to get kids involved in gardening and learning about the plant parts. Or, try a moonlight garden with white flowers that bloom in the evening such as moonflowers or night-blooming jasmine.
A theme garden’s shape is a key element in identifying the design. Usually this is done in the hardscape, but shapes can also appear in plant material. Geometric shapes, such as squares, circles and polygons are commonly used in the landscape, but more naturalistic forms can be incorporated as well.
For example, a curved path through a garden can mimic the shape of a river or creek. A spiraling ‘twirl’ can be formed with plant materials that flow around a central point. For instance, a garden planted around a tall evergreen yaupon tree (Illex vomitoria ‘Nana’) in a rounded circle is a great example of this.
A good way to organize a large yard is to theme it into individual gardens with specific purposes. Vegetable gardens, herb gardens and even flower gardens are popular themes. Often, plants with similar water and sun exposure requirements are grouped together to make gardening easier. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that these are just ideas and that you still have to select plants that will thrive in your climate.
Themes can be based on the seasons, colors, plants that attract a specific type of wildlife or on the use of the garden (as in an apothecary garden). Themes also create a framework that limits what is planted, which allows a gardener to focus on growing vegetables, herbs and flowers that will best suit the garden’s purpose.
A garden themed around a recipe will include all of the ingredients needed to make that dish, like paste tomatoes and basil for pasta sauce. Other garden themes include a child-related topic, such as a favorite children’s story book, to encourage experiential learning in the garden.
A wildlife garden focuses on the habitat of birds, insects and other animals by providing food, shelter and water in the landscape. Plants in a wildlife garden often grow naturally in the surrounding environment and provide the nutrients that native species require to thrive. For example, a pollinator garden uses local wildflowers and shrubs that attract butterflies, bumblebees and other pollinators. Other theme gardens, such as a sensory garden and a peace garden, are designed to create calming experiences in the garden through the sights, smells and sounds of nature.
A theme garden can bring structure to a landscape. It can organize a vegetable garden and orient the plantings to save time and money in the yard. It can also impose a discipline on a garden that might otherwise sprawl out of control, requiring the gardener to maintain each area. Learn the story behind Halls Greenhouse to make sure that you know the tips and tricks of building one.
A garden themed around a particular topic can be educational as well. An art garden can teach children how to paint with flowers such as Monet’s purple iris or Van Gogh’s sunflower. A sundial garden teaches time with blooms such as morning glories, 4 o’clocks and moonflowers. A Shakespeare garden cultivates flowers mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare and can be a fun family project.
Some gardens have a form theme, such as a cottage garden or fern garden. Other gardens have a style theme that blends with the architecture of the house or relates to nearby landscape features like the topography and local climate conditions. For example, a wildflower garden would blend in with the surrounding native landscape by using native plants like coneflowers, lupine and penstemon.
Many gardeners find joy in putting food on the table. Having a theme garden that is focused on the production of fruits, vegetables or herbs can be both fun and rewarding for all members of the family.
Themes can also focus on a favorite food or beverage like a lemonade garden featuring everything you need to make your own homemade lemonade including lemons, sugar and ice. Theme gardens can even include plants that are helpful for the body, like a sedative or medicinal garden filled with chamomile, lavender and other therapeutic herbs.
Another type of garden theme that is beneficial for all types of gardeners is a native plant garden. Native plants adapt naturally to local soil and climate conditions, making them more easy to grow and providing a natural food source for local birds, butterflies and other wildlife. They are also low in maintenance and require little or no fertilizers or pesticides.
An art garden can be a fun way to introduce children to the concepts of gardening. It can also make the outcomes of garden-based learning visible, making them a valuable tool for assessment, evaluation and sharing of knowledge with others.
A theme garden can be based on flowers, foods, the alphabet, herbs, pollinators or even a book. It can even be centered on a particular culture, such as the Japanese or Native American gardens.
Choosing a color scheme is a good way to start a theme garden. It can be as simple as energizing bright reds and yellows or as complex as using a monochromatic color scheme.
Plants should be chosen carefully to match your theme. Fragrant plants like lavender and sage, herbs for cooking or crafting and plants with medicinal properties are great choices for an herb garden. Plants that attract butterflies and bees are essential in a pollinator garden. Decorative elements such as wind chimes, bird feeders and garden paths can help enhance your garden’s look while adding a sensory component.
A theme garden offers a way to make a complex landscape manageable for home gardeners by narrowing the choice of plants and orienting the yard so that it is easy to tell what is planted where. It is also a good way to encourage younger gardeners to become more involved by encouraging their imaginations around a story, favorite foods or a hobby like music.
Themes can be as simple or complex as the homeowner wishes to make them. For example, a flower or herb garden can be based on a particular color, a specific shape or a group of plants such as roses, lavender and cilantro. A food garden can focus on herbs and vegetables that are useful for cooking, such as basil, oregano, parsley, rosemary and garlic.
Theme gardens can be based on a particular climate, such as a desert or tropical garden or they can focus on a particular style of architecture or a period in history, such as an Italian or Japanese garden. A Native Garden, filled with plants that grow naturally in a given area, is another option as it cuts down on fertilizers, pesticides and water use and promotes biodiversity.
A theme garden groups plants around a common idea, whether it’s a season (like an all-white garden), color (all shades of blue), cultural reference (Shakespeare gardens) or use. Themes can also be based on a hobby or interest, such as cooking, herbs or attracting butterflies and bees.
Choosing a theme is important, says Jim Becker, co-owner of Goodwin Creek Gardens in Williams, Ore. “It sets the whole direction and lets you get really creative with it,” he says. He suggests starting with your favorite interests and incorporating those into the garden in small ways.
For example, a Shakespeare garden could contain a few of the playwright’s most beloved plants, such as rosemary, lavender and thyme. Or a tea garden could include pineapple sage, mint, anise hyssop and stevia to grow in pots or in the ground. Add a few garden ornaments and furniture that reflect the theme to tie the garden together.
If a child’s name is part of the theme, spell out letters with plants and other garden art to create an Alphabet Garden. Fragrant vines like honeysuckle and wisteria, plus grasses and ferns, can make a Sensory Garden, perfect for children to touch and smell.
Cybercriminals use sophisticated tactics to exploit your information and assets, so it’s up to all individuals to fight cybercrime together.
Backing up data can help prevent major disruption and loss of systems caused by cyber attacks. Strong passwords, keeping software current, etc can all also play an integral role.
Many cybersecurity experts advise individuals to change their passwords regularly. The logic behind this advice is that frequent changes will make the password harder to crack; while this may be true in certain instances, it’s still wise to consider other measures to safeguard your information.
First and foremost, whenever any service you use discloses a data breach, always change your password immediately as this allows hackers access to your login credentials and thus your account.
Additionally, if you use public or shared computers, as they could be vulnerable to hardware keyloggers – surveillance tools that record keyboard strokes – which could record and steal passwords and sensitive information from these computers. It is vital that when breach occurs or security has been breached that a change be implemented immediately as well as updating software regularly.
Cyberattacks have an enormously negative impact on our daily lives, posing threats to personal information and accounts, financial services, health records and critical infrastructure.
Protecting yourself against cybersecurity threats requires taking several simple steps. Updating software regularly and selecting strong passwords are both key, while regularly creating backups of your data can help restore any possible attacks and reduce their potential damage to your business.
Cyberattacks often arise from outdated hardware and software. An Equifax data breach exposed Social Security numbers, dates of birth and home addresses to hackers via a vulnerability in a web application; when software updates become available that fix these vulnerabilities (commonly referred to as patches), it’s essential that they’re installed immediately as threat actors may already know of these holes and be actively looking for ways to exploit them – it would therefore be wise for users to set their devices or computers up automatically update software when available.
Phishing scams are one of the most prevalent cyber attacks, used to steal passwords, credit card data and personal details. Furthermore, they may install malware or ransomware onto your device that will hold files hostage until payment has been made (this tactic is known as ransomware).
Phishers tend to target high-level employees in order to gain access to sensitive data. They use public sources of information like social media profiles and Short Message Service (SMS) text messages in order to build up a profile on them in order to craft more convincing phishing emails that appear believable.
Be cautious when clicking links in emails from sources you consider trusted, even if they appear from trusted sources. Phishing emails often contain fake log-in pages designed to harvest credentials or install spyware or ransomware on your device. If unsure, type the URL directly into your browser, or contact the company or individual directly by phone to verify a request for personal data. For added protection use multi-factor authentication which sends out another verification code by text message or app before login.
Public Wi-Fi networks can be found almost everywhere from cafes, restaurants and airports to malls and airports. While public networks may seem convenient, they’re often not protected against hackers which expose your devices and could result in identity theft, malware infections and ransomware attacks on your devices.
Hackers can eavesdrop on any public Wi-Fi network and spy on what you are doing online, including viewing passwords and private data such as bank details. This process is known as session hijacking; cybercriminals use it to take control of the connection between your device and whatever website or app you are accessing.
Attackers may use an attack known as man-in-the-middle, in which they create a fake network with names like “free train Wi-Fi” and wait for unsuspecting users to connect voluntarily, hoping they can then steal data or infect devices with malware.
Public Wi-Fi networks can also be used by criminals to spread ransomware – an increasingly serious cyber threat – wherein they will lock your device or files and demand payment in order to unlock them. One effective strategy against this hazard is not using public WiFi services and utilizing file-sharing services like Dropbox as well as setting two-factor authentication whenever possible.
To protect from cybercrimes, change passwords frequently to protect yourself. Another easy step you can take to safeguard yourself is disabling auto-connect Wi-Fi, which enables your device to automatically join any available Wi-Fi network when in range, making life more convenient, yet also increasing risks as public networks tend to be less secure, leading to malware downloads or autorun scripts without your knowledge.
Identity theft is one of the most prevalent types of cybercrime and involves hackers gaining access to personal data for financial gain or malicious purposes. This may involve taking your credit card or bank account details, impersonating you online through social media accounts or breaching into your business computer system and deleting files or installing malware.
Becoming more cybersecurity aware is of vital importance to everyone – be it at home, the office or out and about. Take steps to prevent cyberattacks by following best practices, contact IT or contact their helpdesk with any queries. With National Cyber Security Awareness Month happening this October it’s the ideal opportunity to start applying these tips into action!
Cybercriminals use weak passwords to gain entry to devices, accounts and data stored on them. Establishing strong passwords is one of the best ways you can protect yourself against potential cyber threats.
Your password should contain at least 15 characters of mixed capitalization letters, numbers and symbols so it becomes increasingly difficult for hackers to guess it and gain entry to your account.
Reusing passwords across different sites is also critical. If you use the same password across different services that contain sensitive personal data such as email, shopping and banking websites, hackers could gain entry to all these accounts simply by breaking one.
Your passwords should also be as unobtrusive and obscure as possible; avoid obvious or predictable choices like your date of birth, name or simply “password.” Additionally, ensure your computer is safe by hiding paperwork, device screens and keypads so criminals cannot obtain your passwords by looking over your shoulder.
Even though it may be tempting to believe your personal information is safe just because you don’t work in a top secret government agency or high-tech company with thousands of customers, hackers and scammers still target people like you. By following some key recommendations and staying abreast of cyber threats, you can protect your identity and ensure its protection.
Staying current with operating system, browser and antivirus software updates is essential to protecting yourself against cyber threats. Be wary of downloading programs from unknown sources without first performing an in-depth security scan before running. Keep an eye out for suspicious emails, text messages and phone calls from individuals purporting to represent the government, bank or even long-lost relatives claiming they come from such entities; research their identity before divulging any personal details.
Scammers and thieves can gain access to your personal data in multiple ways, from phishing attacks and malware that collects it from devices on to dark web marketplaces. Staying aware of cyber threats by regularly changing passwords and employing strong encryption can help protect you against these cyber attacks and reduce the risks.
Encryption is an essential component of any cybersecurity plan for both consumers and businesses alike, no matter their industry. By converting your data to something only readable by those with the key, hackers cannot read your sensitive information even if it leaks out accidentally or gets stolen.
Data encryption is required or strongly encouraged by many laws and compliance standards such as HIPAA, PCI DSS and GDPR. At AU’s IT experts advise using public algorithms considered cryptographically strong to encrypt both in transit and at rest (for instance databases) such as data.
Cybercriminals have become more sophisticated, yet the principles of cyber hygiene remain consistent across users. Therefore, it’s essential that everyone recognize the threats they are exposed to and take measures to safeguard themselves – something October marks as National Cyber Security Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to do just that!
Crystals absorb energy from their environment and require regular cleansing – this is particularly important during times of transition like an eclipse.
Black Tourmaline is one of the most powerful negative energy shields and blockers, protecting against electromagnetic pollution, technological harm and projection, harmful energy projection and psychic attack.
Fuchsite helps to clear and heal heart energy, restoring empathy and compassion. Additionally, Fuchsite stimulates intuition while supporting an holistic and healthy lifestyle.
Crystals are exposed to many different energies over their lifespan, so regular cleansing can help clear away negative energies that accumulate within them. Some effective techniques for doing this are running water, sage/smudging/light purifying; these methods can be combined as appropriate by your intuition. There are specific crystals that can go into water and you can check them by clicking the link attached here.
Saltwater cleanses are considered one of the most efficient ways to rid crystals of negative energy, although not all stones can be immersed completely in water (particularly those made of porous material or with metal inclusions). If this method suits your crystal, simply place it in a bowl with cool running water for several minutes (or overnight), visualizing any negativity being removed by its flow over your stone and off into its surroundings.
Burying crystals is another effective method for cleansing them, particularly those that possess grounding properties such as hematite, smoky quartz and tiger’s eye. Although this process works on all sorts of crystals, if negative energies have manifested within your personal space or home this should become essential.
Selenite can act as an effective energy purifier, helping cleanse all energy fields including your own aura. Placing it in the home also is said to repel unwanted energy, keeping harmful people and situations away. Black tourmaline also serves to shield its user from negative vibrations by emitting an etheric shield that shields it.
Smudging is a Native American practice of burning sage and immersing crystals in its smoke. This method can help cleanse crystals of any built-up energy, and is one of the most popular approaches for clearing them of unwanted energy. You can do it alone or with someone who will hold and stroke the crystal as you take in its healing smoke; alternatively you could leave your crystal outside to receive its purifying benefits under sunlight or moonlight.
Sage is an effective crystal cleansing solution and easily available at supermarkets or herb stores. Sage’s purifying smoke has long been used to transform negative energy into positive vibrations, making it an excellent way to clear away negative vibes and ready your crystal for new uses. Regularly cleansing crystals is especially crucial if they serve as protection, since their cells can absorb negativity over time.
Some crystals require frequent cleansing, so it’s wise to have various cleansing methods at your disposal. Popular options for doing this are burying, smudging and soaking – no matter which approach you take it’s always important to follow your intuition and set an intention for cleansing the crystal.
Salt burying is another popular way of purifying crystals. This method works particularly well when used with protective stones like black tourmaline that can ward off negative energies. Place your stone in a bowl of dry brown rice and completely submerge it before placing it under salt; rice is believed to absorb any unwanted energies while protecting the crystal from being dislodged or lost from its place of protection.
This technique can also be used to cleanse crystals that don’t respond well to direct sunlight, like selenite. If you don’t wish to bury them in rice, simply place them in an earthenware or glass container filled with sea salt and cover the entire surface area completely; this technique draws out any negative energy before encasing it within its shell and discarding.
Healers often advise using sage in your home or office to dispel negativity and improve air quality. Simply open a window, hold a crystal close, and blow burning sage smoke over them; this method has been said to purge both spirits as well as negative energies within a space, helping crystals retain their healing properties for longer. You could also try Palo Santo smudging for similar benefits. It can be found both as sticks or cones from Ecuador and Peru that has been turned into incense.
Crystals that absorb negative energies may retain these vibes for some time. Regular cleansing and recharging sessions are the best way to remove them, restoring them back to their natural state and opening them up to positive vibrations.
One effective method for clearing crystals is using purifying smoke from a smudging herb such as sage, palo santo or cedar to rid your home and crystals of negativity and impurities. Such herbs have long been believed to do just this – leaving both your space and its crystals fresh and free from negativity.
Smudging crystals that may be damaged by water, like black tourmaline and amethyst, is an ideal method for cleansing them while simultaneously clearing an entire space or room. Smudge your crystals during eclipses (both solar and lunar), as this often produces significant energetic shifts; however, you don’t need to wait – any time your crystals feel they have negative energy attached is the perfect time for cleansing smudge them as soon as you detect it!
Before beginning your smudging ritual, it is essential to set your intentions. Think about what you wish to release or bring into the space or crystals and create a mantra which expresses these intentions – this way you’ll remain focused and grounded during the smudging process.
Once your smudging materials are prepared, begin at the front door and work your way around your space. Make sure all windows and curtains remain open so fresh air can come into the room, and relocate any crystals which could be affected by smoke away from their current locations.
Once finished, extinguish the smudge stick or bundle in its ceramic dish and allow it to cool before extinguishing it completely. Make sure not to get any water onto your smudging herb as this could harm crystals and compromise their effectiveness. Be sure to thank them for all their assistance while taking this opportunity to recharge their positive energy with positive intention.
No matter whether your crystals are kept at home or carried with you, it’s essential that they be regularly cleansed. Like anything, crystals absorb energy from their surroundings, becoming discordant from their natural vibration. Luckily, crystal cleansing is a straightforward and quick process which only takes some of your time.
There are various methods for cleaning crystals, from burying them in salt (though be wary as too much can damage the crystal) to running cool water over them, to leaving them out in sunlight or moonlight (ideally using a moonbeam pendulum for optimal results).
Smudging crystals with herbs that emanate positive vibes is another fantastic way to cleanse them. While sage is the go-to choice, lavender and sweetgrass also can be used to perform this ancient technique used by Native Americans to purify spaces – it will leave your crystals feeling as good as new!
Once your crystals have been cleansed, it’s a great idea to place or carry them with you as a way of protecting the energy within your home or pocket. If you find that negative energy tends to surround you, carrying protective stones like black tourmaline or amethyst with you may help ground, balance and instil confidence even during times when feeling off balance or overwhelmed.
Cleanse your entire home’s energy using crystals by placing purifying stones like selenite or pyrite near every door or window – this will prevent bad energies from entering and is particularly effective in major rooms like living room, kitchen and office.
A good name is like a great pair of pants: It fits perfectly. It flatters your personality and style, and makes you feel confident in every situation.
Unfortunately, choosing a baby’s name isn’t always easy. Marital bickering and family drama are common occurrences, and not everyone will agree with your choice.
Choosing a name for your baby can be stressful, and that’s not just because of the expectations placed on new parents. Family members can be pushy and find ways to sway your opinion, and friends aren’t shy about sharing their own opinions either.
To avoid these pitfalls, take some time to analyze your options and make sure you’re happy with the choices you’re making. Start by making a list and then narrowing it down. Remember that you should consider the gender of your child and any unisex names that may appeal to you as well. You should also think about nicknames and how they’ll work with your last name. Also, don’t forget to consider your child’s initials and what they might spell out (Alyssa Sydney Scott or Fiona Mary Lawrence, for instance).
Another important thing to think about is whether or not your choice will stand the test of time. Trendy names that sound oh-so-original when you’re in your third trimester have a way of going out of style by the time your little one is in kindergarten. Also, steer clear of offensive names and any names with a weird spelling twist or pop-culture references.
Choosing a baby name is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. But it can also be an emotional process. After all, you’ll be using this name for a lifetime. That’s why it’s important to take your time and consider all of the options.
A good way to do this is by observing your child. Watch for times when they’re calmest or happiest. For example, a baby is likely to be at their calmest right after a feeding or when they wake up from their mid-morning nap. Those are great times to try out your names.
Another way to help your baby learn their name is by using it regularly. Say it to them often in a loving manner, like “Hey there, sweetie, would you like a bottle?” or “It’s time to change your diaper, Sammy.”
Many families use nicknames during pregnancy in order to decide on their baby’s official name later on. You may also choose to honor a deceased family member by selecting a name that corresponds to their personality or legacy. A backstory behind a name can inspire your child to emulate the positive qualities of their namesake.
The baby naming process can be stressful for many parents because there are a lot of opinions to consider. It’s also a big responsibility because your child will carry that name with them for their entire lives. This is why it’s important to consider the parameters that your family and your sphere of influence will place on your name choices.
For example, if your family is religious, you may want to choose a name that has a spiritual meaning. Likewise, some families like to use their surname as a middle or first name. Using names that are a part of your family’s history can be an excellent way to honor them and start a new tradition.
You may also want to think about how the initials of your baby’s name sound together. You don’t want to unintentionally spell out swear words or give your child the same initials as a serial killer.
Additionally, you’ll also want to consider any names that could be shortened into nicknames. These may come in handy for your little one or might be bestowed on them by their friends and family members. Considering this can help you narrow down your options so you’re happy with your final decision.
It’s important to know your culture when choosing a name for your baby. Some cultures may have specific rules regarding naming and what is appropriate. For example, some cultures may have a naming ceremony that is held at home or in a house of worship and attended by religious leaders and family members. These ceremonies often include the giving of a spiritual name to the child that is not the same as the name that appears on the birth certificate. Learn more about haitian names for boys at the link attached here!
Also, some names might not fit your family’s tradition or could be considered offensive. This is something to consider, especially if your family’s name is already quite traditional or popular.
It’s also important to think about how your chosen name might sound when combined with other words. For example, it’s not a good idea to choose a name that rhymes with a word like snake or poop. Additionally, you should also consider how your child’s initials will look. It would be pretty embarrassing if you named your baby Alyssa Sydney Scott and she ends up having initials that spell out the word shit. Make sure to run a google search on all potential nicknames and spellings before making your final decision.
If your ideal name is linked to a celebrity, a local sports team or star in a popular prestige TV series, it’s worth considering how that will play out geographically. After all, the world is a pretty big place and you want to make sure your child’s name will be easy to Google and understood.
Likewise, consider the laws and language of your state. For example, California has stringent naming laws and will only allow names that are spelled using English letters and their diacritical marks. While this isn’t a deal breaker, it’s something to bear in mind if you have a name in mind that may require an accent mark or special characters. A quick web search will help you decide whether this is a concern or not.
Choosing your baby’s name is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent. It has a lifelong impact on your child and will likely be with them forever. That’s why it’s so important to choose a name that makes you happy!
A lot of families get advice on names from their friends and family. They may have good reasons why they like a certain name, but it’s up to you and your partner to decide what feels right. You can ask your loved ones for a list of boy and girl names they like to narrow your options or you could even host an online baby naming poll on social media.
When deciding on a name, consider how it will be pronounced and the meaning behind it. Also, don’t forget to consider what their nicknames will be! It would be a shame to give your little one a unique name that is abbreviated to something completely different than they expected. You don’t want to be the mom who accidentally spells her daughter’s name as a swear word!
Choosing your baby’s name can be an interesting and fun experience. However, it is also a very serious responsibility. Your baby’s name will follow them throughout their whole life, so it is important to choose a name that you will be happy with for the rest of your life.
If you are a unique-minded person, a creative name may appeal to you. This can be a great way to show your individuality and to let others know that they are dealing with a special soul.
However, be careful that you don’t choose a very unique name that can cause your child to struggle in school. It can be difficult to spell, pronounce and explain to teachers and classmates.
If you have difficulty navigating the world of baby names, it is a good idea to work with a professional naming consultant. Like a real estate agent or interior designer, a naming consultant can help you navigate the sea of options and find a name that will stand out in the crowd. They can also help you navigate naming challenges such as a speech impediment, family dynamics or religion. A naming consultant will guide you to choices that meet your criteria while steering clear of styles that don’t interest you and leading you to options you might have overlooked.
Form follows function, and each business plan section should reflect the information needed to bring your idea to fruition. This is particularly crucial when seeking funding.
An executive summary should provide a snapshot of your company, outlining its mission statement, products or services offered, target market and overall strategy.
The Executive Summary is the part of your business plan that serves to introduce your company and idea to bankers and investors. It should outline your product or service, market potential, management team composition and financial projections. This section of your document can make or break it when it comes to engaging viewers throughout its contents.
According to writing teacher John Clayton, your executive summary should be designed with your target audience in mind. Busy executives tend to care more about bottom-line deliverables rather than the intricacies of how your business operates; hence the necessity of keeping this section short and concise so you can expand upon any details in other parts of the plan; typically no more than two pages should comprise your executive summary.
Industry analysis is one of the cornerstones of any successful business plan. This section explores your chosen industry to assess its potential as well as any major threats that might impact it.
As part of your business plan, this section should contain statistics regarding the size and growth of your industry as well as an outline of its history. In addition, describe your target market and any laws or regulations which might impact it.
Your pitch document provides an ideal opportunity to illustrate how unique you are within your industry, and distinguish yourself from competitors. Use clear language without resorting to jargon; this will make the report simpler for potential investors to read and comprehend.
No matter whether you are seeking investors or simply planning for the future, understanding your marketplace is of critical importance. Conducting a competitive analysis helps identify major competitors (and any incoming threats) while also evaluating current market status.
Start by compiling a list of everyone operating within your industry – this should include both direct and indirect competitors – then begin researching each one separately until you identify those which may no longer be relevant.
This section of your plan should outline your marketing penetration strategy, sales channels and communications plan to reach consumers. Furthermore, this should outline any opportunities or threats identified within the market that need to be addressed.
The financial section provides an overview of your company’s present and future financial state, with topics including income/loss statements, balance sheet projections and cash flow analyses. Its purpose is to show potential financiers or investors that your venture is financially sustainable.
Financial sections can be critical, particularly for startups seeking investment funds or loans from banks. An insufficiently written or unrealistically optimistic financial section could deter investors.
Financial statements should be both specific and realistic. It’s essential that these details include your company budget and sales forecast; experienced bankers and investors will quickly identify inaccurate numbers that cannot be supported with evidence. In addition, this section is an opportunity for the entrepreneur to demonstrate his or her business experience and ability to manage financial risk; something which will set them apart from competitors. Looking forward, you need to hire Business plan writers for your business to make sure that your business will be planned effectively.
Marketing plans provide a framework for companies to achieve their product or service aims, while outlining specifics about target customers, target market size and competitors in an industry. They will also outline distribution channels as well as advertising/marketing plans planned by them.
Marketing plans also detail how a business intends to attract, retain and expand their customer base. It outlines any special promotions or discounts that might be made available to consumers as well as providing information regarding R&D activities. They typically also contain an appendix with documents that support main sections such as resumes, budget projections and long-term financial projections; this section can be particularly beneficial when seeking funding from private investors or banks.
This section of your business plan details all the components that go into creating and manufacturing your product or service, such as where the company is located, any critical facilities or equipment used in daily operations, as well as how these will be managed. Furthermore, any processing information may also be included – particularly important for manufacturing firms.
An effective operating plan sets forth all the duties and responsibilities for each department over an agreed-upon timeframe that matches up with its goals outlined in a strategic plan. It should include key performance indicators based on leading rather than lagging metrics that show progress as well as predict when milestones will be met – it also should detail funding for these milestones.
Just as any organization needs a plan to ensure the proper operation of specific departments, so too must it have a People Plan which addresses how it manages its most essential resource – its employees. This should include policies and procedures related to hiring, training, and compensation of its workforce.
A strong people plan can provide your organization with clarity as it identifies what needs to be done to attract and retain talent, as well as creating the culture you’d like within the workplace.
To create an effective people plan, businesses need to gather and analyze relevant data. This may include quantitative indicators like turnover rate, employee surveys, demographic information or even qualitative interviews conducted across their People Team – these will all serve to inform and direct development of an effective people strategy.
An effective business plan is an indispensable tool for both startups and established firms alike, outlining company goals while helping employees stay on track towards fulfilling them. Furthermore, this document serves as a means of attracting investors and lenders.
This section of a business plan details how the company will be managed, providing details about management responsibilities and authorities as well as employee roles that will be filled by employees.
An income statement detailing revenue, expenses and profit projections is also part of a management plan – this is particularly crucial for startups that must attract investors or lenders. Annual reviews should also take place so the business can assess whether its original goals remain realistic or whether changes need to be made to its plans.
A business plan helps owners identify and mitigate risks, avoid major errors such as placing too much faith in passion rather than market realities, make realistic financial projections that allow them to assess what type of financing they require as well as gauge any impact a decision could have on their bottom line.
A business plan should clearly state and explain a company’s goals in detail, along with a roadmap of how its objectives will be attained. This document is an essential part of every successful venture whether they be startups or established institutions looking for funding from lenders and investors. A thorough business plan shows investors and lenders that your organization is well organized and prepared while managing finances efficiently while giving an indication of management team expertise and experience.
Diversified revenue streams are essential to the long-term viability of any business. By diversifying income sources, businesses can weather unexpected economic conditions while continuing to provide value to customers.
Revenue streams can include both operating and non-operating revenue sources. Operating revenue stems from products and services sold directly to customers.
Non-operating revenue can come from various sources, including intermediation revenue (earning money from connecting two parties such as credit card providers or brokers) and project revenue (from projects completed). FreshBooks allows businesses to easily monitor these sources with its Revenue Graph feature on the dashboards.
Bathrooms have rapidly evolved from functional spaces into relaxing retreats. To achieve an atmosphere reminiscent of a spa-like environment in your bathroom, consider mixing natural materials with organic forms for maximum effect.
Homeowners are increasingly opting to remove outdated tubs in favor of expanding showers or creating linen closets. Patterned window treatments also add visual interest while softening up their rooms.
It has become increasingly apparent that bathrooms with ample natural lighting are much more than utilitarian spaces; they offer the opportunity to unleash one’s inner designer and turn any room into a real show-stopper. From dramatic pooling of fabric to classic louvered shutters, modern bathroom trends embrace natural light in many forms.
And now the trend for unexpected textures that’s so prevalent in living and bedroom spaces is making its way into bathrooms too. For a subtle effect, look out for fluting on surfaces from vanity cabinets to shower walls; its delicate ribbed finish provides both visual appeal and tactile pleasure.
Colour-wise, one popular trend is using green to evoke feelings of tranquillity and harmony in any bathroom design. A rich mossy green wall covering can add character and depth while green bath tubs, vanity units and countertop basins offer an alternative to the standard white ceramic options.
Plants are another great way to bring nature inside, creating a relaxing ambience and adding an element of nature that’s hard to match indoors. If full plant installations aren’t feasible, try introducing botanical prints on wall art or accessories instead for instantaneous changes that will enhance your bathroom design.
This year we have also witnessed an upswing in bathroom designs incorporating curved surfaces into their design to elongate space and visually enlarge it. Curved soffits, niche walls with curves or even mirrors all incorporate this trend and can make a statement about modern bathroom style.
Minimalism, as mentioned by Cherish Sisters, is an increasingly popular design style that emphasizes beauty through simplicity and clean lines. This aesthetic works particularly well in bathrooms as it creates the impression of more space while helping declutter your bathroom space – always an added benefit!
2023 is seeing the reemergence of minimalist bathroom decor embracing a sleeker style. While previous trends favored bold colors and patterned tiles, minimalist bathroom designs now prefer neutral hues with textural appeal – think marble trays, stone-colored linens or even an earthy accent wall as part of their designs.
Minimalist bathroom designs have taken notice of the innovative tiling trend, featuring honeycomb tiles in minimalist bathroom designs. These tiny hexagonal patterns – similar to mosaic and penny tile but featuring slim profiles – fit together beautifully for an impressive geometric effect. Grout adds depth by providing subtle nuances which merge organically when distance is taken into account.
Minimalism in your bathroom can also be achieved with sleek medicine cabinets. From open frameless designs like Lushome’s to closed white cabinets with minimal silhouettes, these storage ideas add sophistication while keeping essential items within reach.
Bathroom design has long embraced neutral hues, but black bathroom fixtures and vanity tops have recently seen an upsurge in popularity. Ranging from matte fixtures to glossy vanity tops, this fashionable look adds sophistication and elegance to your space while remaining easy to maintain with its matte finishes that offer effortless carefree beauty.
Though the all-white bathroom trend may be winding down, minimalist movements continue to evolve and designers are adding pops of color through plumbing fixtures and accent pieces to keep these spaces vibrant and exciting.
Bathrooms are becoming a place for luxurious materials and unexpected textures, reflecting trends seen elsewhere in the home. Designers are incorporating wood paneling, geometric shapes and colorful accents into modern designs for bathrooms – instead of opting for neutral hues such as white, gray or beige hues, more clients are now opting for warmer palettes such as terracotta and rusty orange shades to create cozier cocooning spaces, according to Younis.
Marble has also made headlines and is being utilized in creative ways, from book-matching and vein-matching, to adding it to bathroom vanity tops. This naturally textured material comes with many colors and markings to choose from – making it easy for you to find a slab perfect for your bathroom design project.
Another way to add interest and create visual interest in small bathrooms that lack storage, or spaces with bold designs, is with an accent wall. You can do it easily and economically with paint; just be sure to hire professional assistance for this project since it requires knowledge of building codes and architectural history.
2023 will mark a shift away from minimalism toward adding some personality and texture to bathrooms, such as adding an eye-catching sculpture like a round vanity, curved walls or exposed pipe system. This is ideal for farmhouse-inspired bathrooms with rustic elements.
Though this style may be difficult to pull off in larger bathrooms, smaller bathroom renovations present the perfect opportunity to experiment with bolder aesthetics. Homeowners could experiment with adding pops of color or making their bathtub an in-home spa by cladding it with luxurious materials such as Zellige tile or raw live edge wood claddings.
Minimalism adds a distinctive style to bathroom design by creating clear and bright interiors. This style creates an environment conducive to restful sleep and encourages us to spend more time relaxing in our personal space. Furthermore, minimalist styles lend themselves well to decorating smaller bathrooms since their aesthetic is sleek. You can add wooden elements, rattan accents, or textured tile designs into this style for an eye-catching minimalist space that doesn’t get boring over time.
Frameless mirrors are a staple in modern bathroom design, yet they shine even brighter when combined with flat cabinets and minimal black accessories. This style works especially well in spaces that feature high ceilings or large windows.
Floating shelving is an effective way to give the impression of an airy and open bathroom space, but it may not be ideal in shared environments due to difficulty keeping items organized and clutter-free. Built-in wall shelves may offer more efficient storage while maintaining an aesthetic design.
White and gray hues can help achieve a minimalist bath design aesthetic, while darker or moodier tones will bring more drama and flair. In the past, neutral colors were typically avoided for bathrooms; now designers are exploring bolder hues.
Reeded finishes have long been associated with Art Deco glamour, yet are making their way into minimalist bathrooms as a subtle and visually stimulating design trend. Used on cabinetry, fixtures or shower doors – adding subtle texture and visual interest.
Though mixing metals is a popular kitchen trend, homeowners typically opt for matching fixtures in the bathroom – including faucets, showerheads and towel bars/robe hooks – instead. Brushed nickel is generally preferred over polished chrome as an aesthetic choice.
Bathroom design trends have recently adopted greener materials, appliances and furnishings into the bathroom remodeling process. From eco-friendly paint, flooring or shower fixtures – to other choices like energy efficient lighting – it is crucial that conscious choices be made during every stage.
Sustainable elements can add both style and function to your space, such as recycled glass tiles. Not only are they visually striking and light on their footprint, they are also popular bathroom flooring choices; bamboo is made from renewable resources with antibacterial properties – another sustainable element.
Many homeowners are opting to replace large built-in tubs with freestanding baths or reclaim the space for other desirable bathroom features, like expanded showers or linen closets. Reducing water usage by ditching your bathtub has an enormous environmental benefit; one full bathtub bath uses up to 70 gallons while a five minute shower uses only 10-25.
When selecting the fixtures for your bathroom, a water-saving faucet that automatically shuts off or requires manual activation are eco-friendly faucets that will save both energy and water consumption. Traditional and contemporary styles alike feature these eco-friendly taps with hands-free infrared sensors for precise water control.
As for colors, neutrals remain popular, though black bathrooms have seen an upswing – there have been over 33,000 #blackbathroom Instagram posts to prove it! For those seeking some pops of color in their bathroom design, earthier natural tones have seen great popularity; warmer hues provide an atmosphere of wellness and relaxation in any setting – great additions when used in combination with warmer natural tones in this instance!
Manifestation has become trendy in pop-psychology books, but it’s important to understand the scientific roots of this method. It’s not merely about daydreaming or imagining something and “wishing for it to come true.”
Reaching your full potential requires commitment and an internal locus of control. It’s also about identifying your core values and creating goals that align with them.
Potential, from the Latin potentia, means “power.” It’s used to describe things that have the ability or capacity to become something else. For example, a person who has the potential to become a great artist, or a building with the potential to be a great home. When used in this context, the word has a positive connotation.
Manifestation is the process of creating your reality using mental, spiritual, and physical techniques. It’s an extremely powerful practice that can help you unlock your potential, change your beliefs, and love yourself. However, its recent trendiness and casual usage have led to skepticism and misconceptions.
In manifestation, you’re aligning how you think, feel, and believe with your most intense desires. By integrating certain practices, such as journaling, setting goals, embracing gratitude, and trusting in the universe, you can manifest your dreams into reality. However, it’s important to remember that manifestation is a journey, not a destination. It takes time to retrain your mind and paint the picture of what you want in your life.
When you manifest, you work hand-in-hand with your Unlimited Self (also known as the Transcendental Self). This aspect of yourself is not limited by space or time and has access to Chitta—cosmic knowledge. It is your Unlimited Self that sets up the probabilities, while your personality-self gives structure to the energy of those probabilities. As you co-create with your Unlimited Self, you begin to see more and more of your desires fulfilled.
You’ll also find that you are more able to deal with the challenges of life, seeing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than a threat to your dream. It’s this approach that leads to increased success in both your personal and professional lives. The key is to be in a continuous state of gratitude and to celebrate each step of your journey, no matter how small it may seem. By doing this, you’re embracing the concept of potentialism—the belief that all possibilities exist and are within your reach. This is how you’ll be able to manifest your potential and create the life you desire.
If you’re interested in manifesting your potential, it’s essential to know what your core values are. Identifying them will help you find meaning in daily life, live with integrity, and stay on track with what matters most to you. Plus, it’s a great exercise for self-improvement. Block off some time this week to start defining your core values. You may surprise yourself with what you come up with!
In addition to determining what’s important to you, you can use your core values to help you set goals. For example, if you value courage, wisdom, or compassion, you can use those values to determine what kind of person you want to be and how you’d like to show up in the world. You can then create a vision statement based on those goals, which you can read and meditate on regularly to help you feel more grounded.
One of the most common reasons people struggle to manifest their desired outcomes is that they’re too tethered to a specific timeline. This can backfire because it sends a message to your brain that you’re not good enough if the outcome doesn’t happen as quickly as you wanted. It can also be difficult for some people to let go of the idea that their positive results could arrive in ways they don’t expect.
As a psychologist, I’m often concerned when I hear about people using manifesting techniques without first identifying their core values. It’s especially problematic when those beliefs are tied to social justice and equity principles. Manifesting is a powerful tool for improving our lives, but it shouldn’t be used to ignore or minimize systemic barriers.
If you have a clear sense of what’s most important to you, it can help guide your decisions and inspire you to keep going when the going gets tough. So take some time to re-examine your values and vision statement, then commit to making them a bigger part of your life! Then you’ll be on the right track to unlocking your true potential. And don’t forget to celebrate your successes along the way!
When you know what your values and goals are, you can begin to start the Quest for Potential Theory. Some practitioners do this through a series of practices, such as prayer, meditation, visualization, speaking their intentions out loud, creating a vision board and/or a future box, or affirmations (we have an abundance of positive ones in the Gratitude app). Whatever you choose to do, it’s important that you set clear goals, because manifestation works best when it’s working hand-in-hand with your physical and emotional action plans.
For example, if you’re nervous about giving a big presentation, using manifestation to visualize a successful talk can calm your nerves. If you want to find a new job, manifesting through a vision board can help you focus on internal opportunities and open up your eyes to external possibilities. If you want to start your own business, manifesting can help you get clear on what type of business is right for you and what steps to take next.
However, the practice of manifesting isn’t a cure-all for life’s challenges. Many experts warn that if you aren’t dealing with the underlying issues that have kept you from achieving your previous goals, your attempts at manifesting could backfire. So, before attempting any new goals, you might consider seeking therapy or counseling, if you are able to do so (click here for affordable options).
For instance, let’s say Shyanne wants to manifest a loving partner. But she’s still struggling with buried emotions surrounding her parents’ divorce. If she continues to try and attract love into her life without working through those issues, the relationship is likely to end up toxic.
The same goes for all other goals you may have, such as finding a healthy weight or becoming financially independent. So, if you’re feeling stuck in a rut, use manifesting as a tool to help you think outside the box and get creative about how you might make changes. And don’t forget to celebrate your successes and the synchronicities that appear along the way! The Universe has your back. And remember, the universe will bring you exactly what you believe you deserve—as long as you stay focused on the desired outcome and don’t get hung up on a timeline or specific means of arrival.
Visualizing your goals is one of the most important steps in the manifestation process. It helps to make your intentions and desires more realistic, as well as to overcome negative self-talk and other hurdles that might stand in the way of your success.
There are several ways to visualize your goals, and it is important to find a method that works for you. You can write your goal down on a piece of paper, or you can close your eyes and picture it in your mind. It is also helpful to focus on the emotions you will feel when you achieve your goals. This will amplify the power of your visualizations.
Some people find it helpful to take a physical object that represents their goal and place it somewhere they will see it often. For example, someone who wants to become a millionaire might put a dollar bill on their desk or in front of them when working, and envision themselves having more money than the amount represented by the object (like stacks upon stacks of dollars). Another effective tool for visualization is affirmations. These are positive statements that help to overcome negative self-talk and to build up your belief in your ability to achieve your goals.
It is also important to remember that the manifestation process takes time, so it is crucial to stay patient and consistent with your practices. There are some famous individuals who have publicly spoken about how they use the Law of Attraction and visualization to manifest their dreams, including actor Jim Carrey.
The best way to utilize visualization is to make a habit of it, and to practice it daily. This will ensure that you are constantly sending out the right vibrations to the universe, and that you will be able to attract what you desire into your life. Be sure to also take action and work toward your goals, as this will help to speed up the manifestation process. With persistence and patience, you will be able to achieve your dreams! Good luck! –Julie M.