The Troubles Every Business Owner Will Run Into

Do you work with risk every single day? Of course you do - you’re trying to make money! However, while you may think of your company’s profit factor as the only risky element within your business, every single decision you make is going to involve risk of some kind. It’s in weighing up these risks that you gain experience, but that doesn't mean the decisions will become easier to make! 

As such, we’ve put together a little list of the most common troubles business owners like you will run into over the early days of your career; keep them to hand to ensure you’re working with your long term goals in mind. 

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Uncertainty About Where to Go Next

The future is often uncertain, whether you’re working for yourself or not, and that can make running a business often quite frightening. However, being unsure about what you should do next is a common condition of being a business owner. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and you don’t want to sacrifice this hard work. 

So sit down and make a plan. What do you want out of your company? What markets are you interested in? What do your customers say about you? Is there anything you want to improve? Constantly ask questions like this to help form a guideline for the next year and beyond. 

A Difficult Client or Two

Difficult clients are often the bane of a business owner’s existence. Not only can they kick up a fuss that’s hard to defuse, but they can drag your company’s reputation down, and even prevent you from claiming the money you’re owed for the work you did for them. And when you’re stuck dealing with clients like these, it’s best to stay calm and look into your options. 

Don’t act in response to a client’s anger, and always professionally state what you’re owed and when you’re legally allowed the amount by. Don’t be afraid to get companies like cannabiz involved, depending on what sector you’re in; debt collectors go a long way to saving small businesses in times of need. It’s also a good idea to have a solicitor connected to your company, to ensure you’re aware of your legal rights at all times.  

Working Within Legal Regulations

The laws around running your own company can be confusing at the best of times. But when you’re running a business entirely on your own, you’ve got no one to depend on except yourself. You can’t quite be sure about whether a decision would cross into risky territory, or if even just sending an introduction email out will breach data protection laws!

Do your best to stay up to date on small business laws in your country and/or state. Work closely with a solicitor for in depth advice you can rely on, and if in doubt, consider your options once again before making a decision. 

Having trouble as a business owner is normal; remember that you’re not alone!

Remove The Rose-Tinted Tourist Glasses Before A Move You'll Regret

 

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When we visit a destination on vacation, it’s not unusual to find our hearts stolen by picturesque streets, blazing sun, and a lifestyle entirely different from our own. Sometimes, this love fades with the post-vacation blues but, in some instances, it grows into a potentially life changing question – do you love that destination enough to move there?

Locations that we return to time and again are especially likely to hold our attention in this sense but, before you start viewing properties and book a cross-country moving company like North American Van Lines to make that dream a reality, you’re going to want to remove the rose-tinted glasses of tourism. After all, living in a place is very different from visiting, and to avoid disappointment when you realize that, it’s always worth taking the following precautionary pre-move measures.

Take time off the tourist route

Every country wants tourists to see its best, meaning that typically touristy areas tend to be the best kept and most modern. In tourist-heavy countries, this can have the downside of leading to neglect in residential areas but, even if this isn’t the case, the chances are that you’ve only seen a tailored snapshot of the country before now. As such, the best step towards removing your tourist overview is to take a less popular route by exploring areas that you’d never think to go as a tourist, and trying out towns, restaurants, etc. that the local residents actually use. 

Find out what real life looks like

Few of us think about the job market when we take a road trip around a destination like Montreal, and house prices are the last things on our minds when we marvel at Barcelona. It’s this real life removal that often makes these destinations so appealing, which is why you should also consider real practicalities before any move of this nature. It’s especially worth taking the time to understand job and housing markets, as well as things like cost of living that will, once and for all, give you a taste of what you can actually expect from life here. 

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Spend a little longer

It’s also essential to spend at least one long period pre-move in your chosen location. It might be that you can temporarily move for a month to give things a go, or even just that you’re able to spend two weeks instead of a weekend. Either way, this provides the perfect opportunity to do everyday things like food shopping, laundry, etc., and even gives you a chance to meet the locals. After all of that, you’ll be way better poised to realistically imagine your new life there, and whether it’s right for you.

We get it – going on an amazing vacation can make anyone want to leave their old life behind. You might even be one of the lucky ones who makes doing so work for them. Just make sure of it by taking these precautionary pointers before jumping into an ill-informed move to a location that, in reality, you barely know at all. 

How To Write A Good Resume

Did you know that most hiring managers only glance at a resume for five to seven seconds before deciding whether the candidate is suitable or not? That might sound like a terrifying figure, but with a good resume, there is a lot you can do with those few seconds, and you can undoubtedly secure an interview, which is really what a resume is geared towards. 

If you want to make the best impression through your resume, there are some things to bear in mind. Read on to find out what they are. 

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Use Keywords 

Understanding the importance of keywords is one of the best things to think about when you are learning how to create a fantastic resume that gets results. Many companies search for particular keywords in resumes, and if they can't locate them, they move on. Keywords that you should include will be ones that are stated in the job description for the role you're applying for. If the job advert talks about trading forex, for example, then make sure your resume has details about your work in this area. If the ad mentions organizational skills, give examples of how organized you can be – and mention the exact words that the business used. 

In essence, by including these specific keywords, you are showing the hiring manager that you carefully read the job advert and then chose to apply, helping them know that you are qualified and that you want the job. 

Limit Descriptions 

Finding the right balance between too much and too little information is one of the most difficult aspects of enhancing the quality of your resume. Your resume should be a snapshot of your achievements, so don't spend too much time providing work specifics for prior positions that aren't the one you're applying for. Only mention the essential facts; you can expand on these much more when you get to the interview stage, and remember, with just a few seconds to make an impression, the more succinct the information, the better. 

Plus, if you just throw everything at the resume, even things that are just not relevant to the position you're applying for, the hiring manager will have to skip over a lot of what you wrote, potentially missing out on the most useful elements. As well as this, having too much irrelevant information shows you haven't read the job description properly, which will give a bad impression. 

Keep The Font Clean

Many employers notice candidates attempting to make their resumes stand out by choosing a colorful and unusual typeface. Unfortunately, these typefaces may be distracting and draw attention away from essential information about you. It's far better to use standard fonts and write the resume in black ink on white paper. Although this might not look as though it will stand out in a crowd, whoever has to read it will be glad you kept things simple as it will be easier on the eyes. 

If you're not sure what to do to make your resume look neat, use a resume template. There are hundreds to choose from online, and they will show you just what font to use and even how to layout the resume for the best effect. 

Practical Ways to Road Trip On a Budget

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Road trips have immense benefits that you want to leverage. Not only does it allow you to self-reflect, but it also broadens your knowledge about other areas, people, and cultures. Besides, it helps you bond with your family and friends while refreshing your mind and body for maximum productivity. Thankfully, you can enjoy an ideal road trip with little resources should you know the proper steps to take. That said, here are some possible ways to road trip on a budget. 

Skip the holiday season 

It's prudent to avoid peak seasons if you want to spend less on your trip. Not only will you spend less on shelter, attraction sites, and food, but you'll also enjoy better security and service. What's more, you'll get more lovely photos for your social media accounts. Therefore, it's imperative to determine the low-season months in every destination you wish to visit. For instance, Florida's beaches are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying quality time alone or with loved ones, making it an ideal place to leverage. 

Prepare a road trip budget 

You can quickly spend more if you don't track your expenses. Therefore, it's essential to create a budget to avoid financial strain. You'll want to factor in gas, food, and accommodation costs when preparing a feasible budget. Recreation activities, tolls, and parking space are also necessary expenses that you shouldn't lose sight of. You can record your budget on paper and allocate the necessary funds to each expense for the best result. You may also include miscellaneous costs and emergencies to prepare you for unexpected situations. 

Ensure that your car is travel-worthy

You want your car to be in perfect condition before you prepare for your road trip. Not only will you avoid additional costs, but you'll enjoy the complete travel experience without stress. Therefore, you can check your tire pressure and condition to avoid a flat or burst tire on the road and listen to your brakes for any changes. You also want to change your oils to prevent engine damage and inspect your batteries to ensure their top-notch condition. You'd also want to replace your radiator hose and drive belts if they are leaking to prevent any car problems along the way. You can also research to discover more ways to prepare your car for the road.  

Find Affordable Hotels to stay in

There are a few things you can do to find affordable hotels when you’re road-tripping. The first is to look for affordable Hotels. An affordable hotel is a great place to stay when you’re on a budget.

The Chicago Loop is a great destination to visit on a road trip. The area is full of things to do and see, and there are plenty of affordable hotels in the area. If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Chicago Loop, Find Hotels in Chicago Loop!

Pack adequately 

It would suck to forget your towels or umbrella if you planned a road trip to the beach. Therefore, it's imperative to pack adequately ahead of your trip to enhance your travel experience. For instance, if you'll be traveling from the mountains to the desert, you'd want to get appropriate clothing to cater to these destinations. By doing this, you'll avoid the extra costs of buying new clothing. You also want to buy the necessary items off-season for lower prices. By all means, include your chargers and body care essentials to avoid spending more than intended. 

You can enjoy a fantastic road trip without spending much, should you know the proper steps to take. Hopefully, you'll consider these ways for a memorable travel experience. 

Choosing The Right Car For Where You Live

 

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There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a car. If most of your car journeys are likely to be local, taking into account the area that you live in could be an important factor. Certain cars can be better suited to certain environments. By buying the right car, you could save yourself a lot of money and stress. Below are just a few different environments and the types of vehicle you may want to consider.

Urban living

Smaller cars can be better for built-up cities. They can be ideal for negotiating narrow streets or fitting into small parking spaces (if you live on a road that doesn’t come with off-street parking or designated bays, this could come in handy). Smaller cars also tend to be cheaper to buy. Urban living costs can often be high and so a cheaper car could be beneficial.

Smaller cars tend to have smaller fuel tanks, but in a city this isn’t likely to matter. City dwellers tend to use their car less and may only need to take short trips - plus there’s always a gas station nearby. You may even want to consider a hybrid of an electric car (cities have more charging points, plus may have free parking areas for electric cars). This guide https://lawnstarter.com/blog/studies/best-cities-to-own-an-electric-car/ details some of the best cities for owning an electric car. 

Suburban living

In suburban areas, you can usually get away with driving a bigger car. For some suburban residents, a bigger car may even be essential - suburban areas tend to contain more families and longer distance drives are more popular, which could make a bigger tank useful.

Station wagons and SUVs are popular in suburban areas. You can read a guide to some of the best suburban cars here. If you don’t have kids or a dog, you may prefer something smaller. 

Rural living

In rural areas, having a bigger car with a bigger engine can often be handy. You may have to travel longer distances to get basic essentials and there may be a need to carry more items in one trip. 

Road conditions may not be as great in rural areas and so it could be worth buying a car with off-road features such as a higher suspension and deeper tread tires. Pickup trucks tend to be more popular in rural areas for this reason. When tackling really bumpy terrain, you may even want to consider buying a truck and making some mods such as these offered by https://tcsupfitting.com/heavy-duty-truck-upgrades/. Low ride sports cars are likely to be a bad choice.

Other factors to consider

Climate: The climate could have an impact on the type of car you buy. For instance, a convertible could be appropriate for somewhere that’s warm and sunny most the year round like Florida, but less appropriate for generally colder states like Alaska. 

Crime rate: If you live somewhere with a high local crime rate and don’t have a garage, you may want to think twice before buying a flashy car. Either that, or you may want to research into cars with good in-built security features. 

State laws: Different states may have different rules on which vehicles are legally roadworthy. For instance, certain levels of window tint are not acceptable in some states. Some states and cities also have their own emissions laws to discourage high-polluting cars.

Could Stressing About Money Less Really Make You Richer?

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On average, around 77% of us admit to being stressed about money at least some of the time, and it’s hardly surprising. Like it or not, money makes the world go round and honestly, having enough of it (or not having enough of it) is the reason we get out of bed in the morning. 

But, is such a high percentage of stress truly necessary for ensuring that we can live a comfortable life? Perhaps not. In fact, when you consider what separates those who have their financial futures sorted against those who don’t, it’s often this very stress that separates them.

In reality, this could be a bit of a chicken or egg situation. Are they not stressed about money because they have enough or are their finances up and together because they don’t stress? Who can say, but taking a leaf out of their books could certainly help you to feel richer in the following ways. 

You’ll finally be able to get your savings in order

Weirdly, worrying less could well see your savings in order. Why? Well, for one, thinking about money less makes you far less liable to spend it. Rather than holding your budget so tightly that there’s no room for maneuver, you’ll be able to calmly cut costs in non-essential areas or even lessen your insane debt overpayments a little so that you finally have some spare cash to put in the bank each month. 

You’ll realize that there’s always a way out

Those of us who worry about money feel like we’ll end up on the streets or facing impossible expenses if we don’t get our acts together/keep a set amount in the bank at any given time/stay awake thinking about it all. But, honestly, there are few financial situations with absolutely no way out. Far from worrying if you have enough to afford any possible situation, throwing stress out the window will open your eyes to these reassuring out-points. Suddenly, you’ll see that even in dire straits, immediate solutions like the second mortgage caveat finance from CSA can always come to the rescue. Even better, those savings that you’re not thinking about might just start creeping the right way up to come to the rescue while you’re distracted.

You’ll be able to love what you’ve got

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How often have you wasted a day with the family because you’ve been stressing about the next mortgage payment? How many times have you spent entire evenings going over accounts? We’ve all done it, and, not to be cliche with the ‘experiences not expenses’ stuff, but there’s genuine truth to this. After all, right now, you’re spending money for a house, food and day trips that you barely notice. By addressing that stress, you’ll start to appreciate what you have, and might just realise that you aren’t so hard-off after all. 

We won’t lie, it’s not easy to switch money worries off like a tap. But, if you manage it, your finances will certainly thank you.

Teaching Your Teen to Drive Safely

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While teaching a teen to drive can be a dreaded experience for any parent, it’s a great way to  prepare him or her to be a safe and competent driver. The risk of a teen getting into a fatal car  accident is three times higher than that of an adult aged 20 and above. By giving his or her  driving education the serious attention it requires, a parent can help his or her teen avoid  becoming another statistic. Here are four actionable tips a parent can use to teach a teen to drive  safely.  

Grasping the Basic Driving Skills 

A parent should ensure the driving lessons are in line with the current skill level of the teen. This  involves teaching the basics during the first few lessons. The teen should get used to sitting  behind the wheel before he or she can actually start driving. Giving him or her an organized and  detailed tour of the car, from the gas and brake pedals, dashboard controls, turn signals, to  parking brakes, is a great place for parents to start.  

Showing him or her how to adjust the mirrors and how to correctly position the hands on the  wheel is also important. The teen should drive only when he or she has mastered all of the basics  and can repeat everything back to the parent.  

The first lesson should take place in an empty and clear space, such as a parking lot. That way,  the teen can practice igniting, turning, or stopping the vehicle at various speeds in an area that is  free of obstacles. Once the teen has basic skills for navigating obstacles, the parent can introduce  traffic cones. 

Route Mapping 

Before hitting the road with a teen, the parent should identify the best route to use. The teen is  traveling through an unfamiliar area behind the wheel and learning a new skill, all the while  aware that one slight mistake could result in disastrous consequences. It is, therefore, wise to  give him or her more organization and predictability.

Avoiding congested highways and freeways that may be beyond his or her skill level, especially  during the first few days, can make the driving lessons enjoyable for both the teen and the parent.  Without mapping the route in advance, avoiding those areas would be impossible.  

Identifying the Skills to Practice 

Besides mapping the route before each lesson, the parent should also determine the skills the teen  will learn in each session. It could be navigating toll booths, maintaining a safe following  distance, or parallel parking. Keeping these in mind during the planning phase can help a parent  choose a route that has all the things he or she wants the teen to learn. If he or she wants the teen  to practice parallel parking, for instance, there should be plenty of opportunities on the selected  route.  

Eliminating Unnecessary Distractions 

AAA lists distracted driving as one of the main causes of car accidents involving teen drivers.  Therefore, when teaching a teen to drive, the parent should get rid of unnecessary distractions to  ensure all the attention is on the road. He or she should also avoid playing music or using a  phone. Although the parent isn’t the one driving, he or she serves as the second pair of eyes for  the teen until the teen can comfortably navigate obstacles and look for cars independently.  Moreover, the teen can learn safe driving habits by just watching how the parent behaves as an  instructor.  

Excellent Ways to Manage Home Finances

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How are your home finances? You might be among the many people who feel that they could manage their finances at home more effectively. Here are some of the most effective ways of handling your home finances.

Have A Budget

Home expenditures require an organized budget, which stipulates the money to be spent on different things. Most people buy home stuff without budgeting, and as a result, they end up purchasing unnecessary items. You can curb this by ensuring you have a budget that shows the things you need and their cost.

Coming up with a budget is simple and you can do it even without anyone's help, provided you know the things you need. You only need to establish the things that your household requires and therefore put them into your budget. You also need to put some extra money apart to deal with anything that might come up beyond the budget.

Live Within Your Means

There are a lot of people who spend beyond their limits to impress others. You do not have to spend extra money or to show other people that you are a certain standard. Some people even take payday loans so that they can show society that they have money.

The best way of living within your means is to avoid associating yourself with people who put pressure on you financially. These include friends who would not mind spending a lot of money because they are affluent. Such people will compel you to spend even money you do not have just to impress them and stay in their class.

Buy The Right Appliance

Some of the appliances in your home require that you pay huge bills, including electricity bills. You might be paying expensive bills simply because you purchased appliances that consume a lot of energy. To avoid this, you should take your time while shopping and ensure that you purchase devices that do not consume a lot of power.

One of the ideal ways of ensuring the appliances you purchase do not consume excess power is buying certified appliances. These are the appliances that have modern designs, especially when it comes to power consumption. The store you purchase your appliances from should have descriptions directing the power consumption of the stock's different appliances.

Avoid Impulse Buying

Most people purchase things just because they have seen them without having a real need for such needs. A perfect example is going shopping for food and then ending up buying a shirt just because you found a good deal. It is advisable to avoid purchasing things that were not in your plan.

To avoid impulse shopping, you should have a designated time when you go shopping. You should not be going shopping just because you have time or money. Instead, it would be best if you were going shopping only when you have planned or when you require certain things.

Therefore, by implementing the outlined ideas, you can effectively manage your finances and eventually be able to save more.

How Do You Improve Your Credit, Anyway?

When it comes to your financial health, you should be concerned with more than how much is in your bank account or how much you are earning alone. There’s another measure of your financial health that is just as crucial for long-term planning: we’re talking about credit. Here, we’re going to offer a reminder as to why credit is so crucial and, from there, look at the steps you can start to take to improve it.

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The importance of credit

First of all, it’s important to remember what your credit score really is. It’s a numeric value that is assigned to you, as a person, by a host of credit organizations. Effectively, it’s a measurement of how reliable you are when it comes to sticking to the terms of a credit agreement, whether it’s a loan, a long-standing bill order, or otherwise. Your credit can dictate the terms of future loans you get. Better credit typically means better terms such as lower interest and more flexible payment periods. As such, if your credit score is too low, then you can expect to repay more for each loan compared to someone with a higher credit score, for instance. But how do you improve your credit score?

Make sure that you pay everything on time

The most important way to keep your credit score up is to make sure that you’re not falling behind on your existing credit arrangements. Don’t think about applying for anything else until you’re sure you have your current set-up in order. If you have trouble remembering to pay bills and can easily fall behind that way, then consider using apps that can give you bill reminders, or setting up accounts with your creditors that allows for automatic payments directly from your bank to them. If you’re using rolling credit such as a credit card, then you should make sure that you’re making frequent repayments, rather than just climbing out of the hole once you get deep enough in it.

Get out of unarranged debt

Not all debt is terrible for your credit rating, but that’s something to get into later. Unarranged debt, such as being late on bill payments or falling behind on your credit card can very much be detrimental to your credit score. If you’re deep into unarranged debt (i.e., debt that isn’t tied to a loan that you planned to take out, such as an arranged overdraft), then you should look at ways to get out of it. If you need to take advantage of a debt relief program, then consider making a move on it. The sooner you are out of debt, the sooner your credit score can start to heal again.

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Make sure there are no false black marks on your credit report

Your credit report is a record of your past and existing credit arrangements. It is used, in part, to determine what your credit score will be. Every person has the right to access their credit report from one of the three major credit reporting agencies at least once a year. From there, you can take a closer look to see if there are any black marks, such as outstanding debts, that you should take care of. However, it is not uncommon for people to find that there are records that should not be on that credit report, such as late repayments that you don’t really owe, or records that, by rights, belong to someone else. If you see any records on your credit report that don’t make sense, it’s typically recommended that you get in touch with the company that filed the report in the first place.

Make use of your credit

In some cases, it’s not a low credit score that is the problem. You might not have much of a credit history, to begin with. That might sound like a clean slate to you, but most lenders and financial institutions are looking for someone who can provide proof that they are able to stick to their financial arrangements. Making use of low credit options such as guarantor loans, with someone else as a signatory, can help. You can build up your credit history by showing that you are able to stick to the letter of the loan agreement.

Mind your utilization rate

If you’re making use of any forms of rolling credit, such as a credit card or an overdraft, it can be healthy to use them and repay them again. Much like taking on a manageable loan, this is a way of building your credit score. However, you should pay attention to how much you are relying on these forms of credit and how “deep” you are into them. This is known as your credit utilization rate. Typically, a lower credit utilization rate will be better for your credit score. You don’t want to constantly be as deep into your overdraft as it allows. You should use it wisely, instead.

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Don’t open or close accounts too quickly

It’s easy to assume that taking actions regarding credit accounts can help you, but you should make sure that you’re not making one of the common mistakes that can bump your score down. First of all, do not close unused credit cards or overdrafts unless you are at risk of misusing them and getting yourself into debt. Keeping these open can help you maintain a low credit utilization rate which, as mentioned above, is good. Otherwise, even if you’re trying to build a credit history, do not start applying for a lot of new credit arrangements. Take your time, apply for the best one that suits you. Otherwise, credit agencies will see a lot of inquiries going into your credit, which can be a bad sign to them, leading to a decrease in your credit score.

It can take a while for a credit score to start to improve, especially if you have any uncleared debts on your record. Get started with fixing it now and you should start to see real improvements by the time you need to make use of your credit, whether to buy a car, a house or otherwise.

Outside Issues That Could Be Holding Your Career Back In 2021

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A successful career has always been a priority shared by millions. Right now, though, the focus is even greater, especially if the pandemic posed stumbling blocks in 2020. Even if your job stayed safe during the past 12 months, this period has highlighted the need to strive for better.

However, dedicating yourself to learning new skills and proving yourself to be worthy of a better job is only a part of the puzzle. The other pieces need to be in place too. Here are some of the issues that could be holding you back.

Body Language

When looking to make yourself an attractive candidate, you must remember that employers want the whole package. Your skills and talent only go so far, especially as the competition for jobs is greater than ever. A body language course and confidence booster could be a game changer. It is just as beneficial as direct skill development.

Improved body language doesn’t only improve your hopes of making a big impression when attending job interviews. It also influences client opinions while it can enhance your hopes of getting noticed for a promotion. Whatever increased success looks like to you, body language is a vital factor.

Location

There’s a lot of truth in the ‘right place at the right time’ cliche. The reality is that your skills may be in demand in one city but not in another. Likewise, some locations boast a thriving or emerging industry. For example, New York and Los Angeles are enjoying success in the electric vehicle market. 

Therefore, it may be better to rent for the next stage of your life. This will give you the versatility to follow the opportunities rather than limit yourself to those in your current location. Your career isn’t the only key feature in your life, which is why relocation isn’t for everyone. If a better job is the priority, though, this issue can’t be ignored.

Driving

A growing number of workers and contracts need to travel around for work. Therefore, problems with your license could significantly reduce your possibilities in some sectors. If facing potential disqualification due to an accident that’s not your fault, a car accident lawyer could save your job prospects. As well as protect your finances.

If you are a young worker yet to earn your license, it’s worth looking into taking lessons ASAP. Aside from improving your primary career, it offers a backup for if you lose your job. You could fill the employment gap with a delivery job or taxi service. Or, you could gain a commercial vehicle license for even more.

Health

Finally, you must not overlook your health. If you want to give the best version of yourself at work, you need to be the best version of yourself away from it. Checking out hearing loss symptoms or other health issues is essential. Otherwise, the impacts can seriously harm your productivity levels.

For similar reasons, you must adopt a good nutrition plan and stay. Studies show that even 2% dehydration can affect your ability to work. Conversely, when you are a fit and healthy worker, you’ll display the energy and vigor to produce great work time and time again. And that’s something that won’t go unnoticed.

Great Reasons To Rent This Year

 

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When looking for a place to live the main question we ask ourselves is whether to rent or buy. Buying a house or a property is a big commitment and often the deposit we have to save for this is enormous. But what if you need a place to call your own without the wait? 

Today we are talking about renting and some of the reasons why it is a great choice for first time property owners. If you are looking to call somewhere your own this year, consider renting a property for these reasons. 

It’s faster 

One of the main reasons people will choose to rent instead of buy is for speed and convenience. The contract for renting is much less strenuous than buying and this means the turn around is much quicker than for those who take on a mortgage. You can sign your contract and be in your new property within the month whereas when buying you could be waiting up to a year. For convenience if you want a home quickly, renting is the easiest option for you. 

They are newer 

One great reason to rent a house or an apartment is that the home is usually new and in mint condition. Finding new apartments for rent is much easier than finding a new build house to buy - and a lot of the time your rental property will be kept modern and fresh by the landlord to ensure quality as well as to keep up with regulations. Whereas if you were to buy a house made in the 50’s; the home could be very old fashioned in terms of decor as well as building style. You’ll likely have to fork out a lot of money to update it and this can be a huge investment all on its own. 

You don’t pay for repairs 

If you don’t have a lot of money aside from your rent and bills each month; a rental property could be a safer option than a mortgaged one. The reason for this is that if an appliance breaks or a leak occurs - you don’t have to pay to fix it. The landlord owns the property and it will be their responsibility to pay for damages and unexpected breakages - meaning you’ll never be caught in the lurch having to pay for an emergency repair on your home. 

You can stay as long as you need 

For many people, a rental property is a placeholder property that serves a purpose while you look to settle down and get into a position to buy. If you are young or you simply don’t know what you want yet in life; a rental will give you a place to stay without the worry of being stuck in one place for too long. You can stay in a rental property for as short or long a period as you like, and you always have the option to move out into a different rental when you fancy a change. 

You don’t have to commit 

Buying a house is a massive commitment. It is a contract of 20+ years and you must be ready to settle down in your life before you make this kind of sale. If you think you’ll be moving around in your life for your job or lifestyle or you aren’t ready to settle in one place yet; don’t buy a property. Renting is more flexible and will allow you to carry on living your life the way you want while you have a bed to sleep in when you get home. 

Why Use A Removals Company?

When you start to plan out your house move, it will probably all start many months, or even years, in advance. You’ll start to get weary of your current home, or you’ll see that it’s no longer suitable for your needs and circumstances. Then you’ll start to toy with the idea of just taking a look at what’s out there as an alternative. Then you’ll get serious, realizing that there is a decision to be made – will you move or not? 

 Once you’ve decided that it is time to move, everything else needs to fall in place. You’ll have to find the ideal place to move to, and eventually, the time will come when your moving day will arrive. But do you have a removals firm in place to help you get from one place to the next? If not, you might regret it. Read on to find out more. 

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It Saves Time And Energy 

We all know that moving home is a stressful event, even if it’s worth it in the end. It takes a lot of time to pack everything up, move it all into a van, then unload it at the other end, and when you have plenty of other things to be dealing with and thinking about, this extra – very big – task can be absolutely overwhelming. 

 

This is why it’s always best to hire a removals firm to do it for you. They will be much quicker than you could be, and they will understand the logistics of maximizing space in their van. You won’t have to worry about ensuring everything is out of your old home in time for the next owners to move in either. You won’t even have to do any heavy lifting or ask friends and family for help when you outsource the entire moving job. 

 

One Cost

As well as being stressful, moving is an expensive thing to do. Even if you’re downsizing to granny flats Victoria there will still be items to pay out for for the move itself. Boxes, packing materials, tape, van rental, the fuel for the van, the added insurance, even the time of your friends who are coming to help you, will all need to be paid for. It can soon add up and become much more expensive than you might have budgeted for. 

 

If you hire a removals firm all of this will be taken care of with one single price. You’ll pay the removals company a pre-agreed rate (and it is crucial to have this in writing before you begin), and that’s it; you won’t have to pay any more. 

 

Peace Of Mind 

The biggest benefit of hiring a removals service is the peace of mind it will bring. We all have an emotional connection with objects, and we want to protect them from damage. A reliable, professional removals firm will know exactly how to pack, move, and store precious items so that they are safe and can be unpacked in one piece at the other end. 

 

When you have other things to think about, and you’re emotional about leaving your home anyway, having to deal with broken possessions is the last thing you’ll want. Don’t risk it; hire professionals and it won’t be a problem (and if something does go wrong, they’ll have insurance to help you). 

Eight Great Ways to Boost Your Earnings in 2021

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Following the year of 2020, which was all about surviving, 2021 should be the year of thriving. This is especially true from a financial perspective as the last 12 months have shown the fragility of your financial health. Now is the time to regain control of your situation to open new opportunities and put your mind at ease.

Here are eight great ways to bolster your earnings in the months ahead. Start to embrace them right away, and you should notice the difference in next to no time.

#1. Work for a promotion

Perhaps the most obvious and logical way to increase your earnings is to focus on getting a better job. Your career is likely to be the primary source of income in 2021 and until you retire. Therefore, knowing how to ask for a pay rise and get it is essential. Before approaching your boss, though, you’ll want to ensure that you are the strongest possible candidate. This means investing in your resume, appearance, and relationships with hiring managers and bosses.

If you successfully land a promotion, internally or elsewhere, it won’t only boost your finances in 2021. The benefits can last a lifetime.

#2. Maximize your rental property earnings

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Real estate is one of the best assets that anyone will ever have at their disposal. Therefore, squeezing every last dollar out of yours is essential. Traditional landlord duties are still a good option, but vacation rentals. Knowing the best way to advertise your VRBO property and get the recommendations to gain more bookings will take earnings to new heights. In truth, the short-term agreements are likely to outweigh monthly rentals, even if only full for 50% of the year.

Domestic vacations are likely to be more popular than overseas trips due to the pandemic. So, you may find that the earnings are even bigger than expected.

#3. Launch a side business

Starting a new business will require an investment of time and money. Nonetheless, the climate makes it more accessible than ever for home-based ventures and small local firms. Whether selling a service or creating products with the support of outsourced staff, you can run a business from your smartphone. It does not have to stop you from enjoying a successful career in traditional employment. And when things go well, you’ll be able to make the transition you crave.

There will be difficult moments ahead, though, which is why you should aim to work on something you love. When you do, the rewards are huge.

#4. Become an influencer

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Shooting for increased earnings without any risk is a particularly popular solution right now. Affiliate marketing through CBD schemes or other products can be a great way to gain success without ever handling products. Whether you have a lot of friends with joint interests or know how to target a niche through social media marketing doesn’t matter. The potential of this highly versatile arena should not be ignored. As a small side hustle, the fact it can be done from home is amazing.

Aside from removing the need to risk your capital, it solves headaches linked to managing an inventory of products. The ceiling is limitless too.

#5. Utilize your knowledge

When you have skills or experience in a particular field, it’s likely that novices are looking to follow in your footsteps. With the best podcasting equipment or home video camera, you can monetize your knowledge. Creating courses to become a tutor or mentor can open the door to a new revenue stream without having to abandon your career. Moreover, the use of pre-recorded content means you can take on as many digital students as you can find. It’s an ideal solution to refresh your mind.

Even 100 students at $50 each would boost your annual earnings by $5k. If you do well, it could grow far bigger than that.

#6. Start gaming

If you’re looking for a fun way to earn a few extra dollars, gaming for money may be the ideal solution. It does come with a degree of loss if you’re using a platform where you pay to play with a chance to win cash. However, there are plenty of free competitions out there too. In fact, the best players are signed to esports teams and can turn their passion into a career. Even if you are just looking for a way to earn a little extra cash in your recreation time, it’s worth researching.

Besides, it will make the gaming activities feel far more engaging and exciting than playing against the computer. Just be sure to be responsible.

#7. Make investments 

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Utilizing your savings in a successful way will have a telling impact on your future financial health. While Bitcoin has gained a lot of headlines, the whole crypto arena offers great opportunities. This is because the market is very volatile. So, when you trade at the right time, you can see stunning results. Another option is to support other businesses through funding in return for equity. There is a degree of risk, but calculated decisions should yield good results. Especially as most savings accounts pay low-interest rates.

You can combine this with a desire to go green by supporting eco-friendly schemes. After all, society’s desire to embrace them can only increase their hopes of success.

#8. Sell unwanted products

You probably feel that you are fairly good at removing clutter from your life. In reality, it’s likely that your home is packed with many unnecessary products. The good news is that they can be sold using the best online apps and websites. Whether it’s old electronics, collectibles, or clothes doesn’t matter. You could quickly generate a four-figure fee to boost your finances in 2021. It will simultaneously create space around the home. This is surely a match made in heaven.

There’s never been a better time to make the changes. After all, it’s a new year while the chances to socialize are limited due to the pandemic. Use the time while you can.

5 Tips For a Stress-Free House Move

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Moving to a new home should be exciting. You are beginning a new chapter of your life and improving your circumstances. You should be counting down the days until you get the keys to your property and you can make it your own.

But unfortunately, this milestone can be somewhat ruined by the stresses of moving day. Transporting all your worldly belongings from one home to the next takes a lot of time and energy, and can be very costly too. You will worry about things getting lost or broken during the move, as well as dealing with unruly children and last-minute delays. Moving day causes a lot of anxiety for many families, and the last thing you want is for your memories of your new home to be marred by this. 

But as long as you plan ahead and are smart about your move, it’s relatively easy to move all stress from the proceedings. Here are five tips to relieve your moving anxiety.

Make an inventory

More often than not, worrying about anything happening to your belongings will turn out to be in vain. But you can set your mind at ease by drawing up an inventory of everything that needs to be moved. This will make packing a lot easier as you can tick things off as you go. And once you arrive at your new home, you can easily check that all of your stuff has arrived as planned.

Pack smart

It may be tempting to shove everything into cardboard boxes to get packing over with as quickly as possible. But you'll be making things harder for yourself in the long run. Once the move is complete and you start to settle into your new home, you don’t want to spend all evening hunting for your kitchenware or bath products. Do your future self a favor by dividing your packing by rooms of the house. Label all your boxes clearly, and make sure they are well taped and secure to prevent things from going missing en route.

Start early

Don’t leave all the packing to the night before. This is a guaranteed recipe for anxiety. Start the packing process as early as possible, by getting all your cardboard boxes ready and packing anything you won’t need until after the move. Start deep cleaning your home well in advance, so you’ll only need a quick spruce up on the day.

Hire a removal firm

Although a removal firm will cost you, it is often more than worth the reduction in stress levels. A good moving company such as Allied Van Lines will handle all the packing and transport, so you can take a moment to breathe. 

Plan your first night

Once the last cardboard box has been moved, you won’t want to start unpacking all your kitchen stuff and cooking dinner. Make a plan to ensure your first night in your new home is as laid back as possible. Order in a celebratory takeaway for the family to save on the washing up. Keep a go-to bag close to hand throughout the move so you have everything you will need that night right with you. This way, you can save the unpacking for the morning.

How To Spot The Warning Signs When Test Driving A Used Car

Buying a used car is a great way to save money, but it can be risky. When you buy a new car, you can guarantee that it’s in good working order and there are not any hidden problems. However, with a used car, you have to take the word of the seller when they tell you that it’s in good condition and there is always a chance that it will have expensive maintenance issues that you need to deal with. 

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Following these simple tips will help you avoid getting ripped off when buying a used car but the most important thing you can do is to test drive it. If a dealership or a private seller is unwilling to let you test drive the car, start looking elsewhere because you can pretty much guarantee that the car is in bad shape. When you are able to test drive cars, there are certain things you should look out for to make sure that you are getting a good deal. Here’s everything you should be on the lookout for when test driving a used car. 

Check The Bodywork 

Before you get behind the wheel, take a good look at the outside of the car. If there are some small dents and scratches, that’s not the end of the world. As long as you are happy to live with it, they shouldn’t affect the performance of the car, just scratches fixed as soon as possible or they can cause the car to rust.

Speaking of rust, avoid buying cars that are covered in it because you will need to do extensive work on the body of the car and that can quickly get expensive. A little bit of rust here and there isn’t the end of the world but if the wheel arches are starting to fall apart, it’s not worth buying. 

When checking over the bodywork, pay particular attention to the different panels and how they fit together, and look for any slight variations in color. This can be an indication that the panels have been replaced because the car has been in an accident, in which case, you need to ask the seller about the extent of the damage. 

Test The Brakes 

The brakes are one of the first things you should test because the car is dangerous to drive if they don’t function properly. Test that the car stops in a straight line and listen out for any squeaking or scraping noises when you stop. If there are strange noises, this is an indication that the brake pads are wearing down. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you shouldn’t buy the car because you can just look for local brake repair shops and get it fixed. However, you should consider whether the deal that you get on the car is good enough to justify spending money on new brakes. In some cases, you might be able to haggle them down and get them to knock off the price of a new set of brake pads. 

Try All Of The Gears 

Clunky gear changes can indicate issues with the clutch or the gearbox, so make sure that you try all of the gears to ensure they are smooth. In an automatic, take note of the gear changes and listen for any noises (ideally, they should be smooth and silent). Pay attention to where the biting point is as well because if it is near the top, that’s a sign that the clutch needs replacing soon. 

Check The Steering 

Make sure you can find a long stretch of straight road during your test drive so you can check the steering. If the car naturally pulls to one side when driving on a straight road for a long period, that’s a bad sign. There shouldn’t be too much noise when steering either, and the action should be smooth. A quiet whining sound is normal in cars with power steering but anything else is a cause for concern. 

These are the main things that you need to check when test driving a used car, but you should also be on the lookout for anything else that feels strange. Looking at the pedals to see how worn down they are is a good way to get a sense of how old the car is, which is important because some people may lie about this. When you are buying a used car, always trust your guy and if something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Instead, look for other options and hold off until you find something that you feel confident about. 

A New You in 2021 with these 3 Life Hacks

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Well after 2020, we are all looking forward to a better year. Along with a better year, many of us hope for better versions of ourselves in 2021. Having spent the majority of 2020 inside of our homes with cancelled travel plans and celebrations, it is time to make the most of 2021. With these three life hacks, you can ring in the New Year with a plan for a new you in 2021.

Make Health a Priority

If 2020 taught the world anything, it is that our health is paramount. And, that means, that not only is your health important, but the health of your community, society, and the world. We are in this together. So, step out in 2021 with plans to get moving, exercise more, stretch more, and make the right food and drink choices. There is no healthy routine that will work for everyone. However, the best way to make something work is to make it fun. Choose a partner to exercise with or a friend to shop with, even if you do this virtually. Another trick that works wonders is keeping a healthy journal of eating habits, exercise times, and perhaps goals attained.

Start a New Hobby

Starting a new hobby is fun. It takes your mind off other things and/or people that might be adding stress to your life. Although exercise is one hobby, perhaps you want something that adds an element of calm and tranquility to your life and home. Many people choose to add a pet to their life for emotional support as well as tranquility. If you have a shelter close to your home, you may opt for adopting or even taking a pet for a day. If this isn’t an option because your flat or home doesn’t allow pets, perhaps you can add a small fish tank. A very entertaining fish to start with is the congo fish. It gets along well with otocinclus catfish as well as amano shrimp. If fish aren’t your thing, perhaps a little do-it-yourself decor and/or repair in your home is just what you need. There is something about putting together an IKEA piece of furniture or painting a room that makes all the other stuff fade away.

Nail Your Next Interview

Having a purpose along with a paycheck is great for your self-esteem. When you want to feel your best, make sure to put on your best first impression. It is imperative that you wear an outfit that is age-appropriate and fits the job. Additionally, make sure that you have a neat and tidy look from your hair, smile, and even nails. 

Let’s say hasta la vista baby to 2020 by entering 2021 with plans for a new you. Whether you are looking for love, success, a refreshed look on your world, or a bit of it all, take these three life hacks and run with them. Start a new hobby, get moving, make good food choices, and step out looking your best. Here’s to an incredible 2021! Cheers!