How To Take Good Care Of Your Roof

Looking after the roof of your home is always something that is going to be important, not least because it is a primary safety concern and one of the most common exterior elements that can go wrong or become damaged. If you know how to take proper care of your roof, it is going to mean that you can keep your building intact much more easily, saving you money and trouble in the long run. So let’s look right now at how you can take good care of your roof.

Image Source - CCO License

Regular Inspection

One of the most important things you should do is to carry out regular inspections of your roof. This is the only way to keep on top of it and make sure that you are aware of any damages and so on. In doing this, however, you do need to take care - you can’t simply go crawling around the roof without harming yourself. It is usually best to hire a roofer to come and inspect the roof for you, but make sure that you are asking them to do it regularly and that you hire a trusted professional.

Tile Replacement

From time to time, that inspection might show up certain breakages and damaged tiles, and as such you will need to make sure that these are being replaced as soon as possible. If you don’t replace them, you might be opening up your home to the elements in a way that is just not necessary, or good for your home. When replacing tiles, remember that you need to choose the right material, the right metal roof colors, and make sure you are replacing all the relevant parts of the roof. Again, a professional should be able to help you out with these decisions.

Natural Disasters

If you should live in a part of the world where natural disasters are a real probability, then you will need to bear this in mind too as you try to take care of your roof. Hurricanes, storms, tornadoes and even just heavy rain can all be problematic if you are trying to care for your roof. The best thing you can do is to prepare for them, have a plan for when they occur, and ensure that you are replacing and repairing the roof after the fact too. If you do that, you should be able to keep your roof in a good state of repair in general.

Image Source - CCO License

Signs Of Damage

There are signs of damage to the roof that might occur which you should pay attention to too. For example, you might find that you have leaking water coming into a room, which is a definite sign that you need to have something to look at on the roof. The last thing you should do is ignore such signs, at the very least. You never know what it might be or how bad it might get, and keeping on top of it will help to save you money and hassle in the long run.

Planning A Vacation When You Have No Money

Pexels. CCO Licensed.

Now and again, we all deserve a break from the daily grind - and a fresh change of scenery. Going on vacation can provide both, but what if you can’t afford a vacation? Taking out a loan is one option, but it’s not ideal, as it could result in further financial problems down the line. Fortunately, there are a few ways in which you can enjoy a trip away without spending much money at all. You may not be able to afford anything luxurious, however there are plenty of ways in which you could still get away. Below are a few examples.

Go wild camping

Camping is generally a good cheap option. You can save money further by considering ‘wild camping’ - this involves pitching up in the wilderness as opposed to in a campsite (saving you money on campsite fees). National parks are great places to go wild camping - if you’ve got one on your doorstep, consider planning a camping trip here.

Of course, you will need some essentials to camping, which could cost you some money if you don’t already own them. A tent and a sleeping bag are a must, plus you’ll need to bring some food and water. You can buy other camping gear at sites like EcoGearFX.com. Once you’ve got all the gear, you can head out on camping trips whenever you want.

Try car camping

You may not even need a tent to go camping. If you’ve got a car, you consider going car camping (sleeping in your car). This is best suited to larger cars in which you can fold down the back seats and comfortably lie down. You can pad out the back with lots of blankets and pillows. It’s not very luxurious, but it won’t cost you anything.

You will of course need to factor in the cost of fuel and tolls. It may also be useful to have a roof box so that you can pack lots of stuff without having to take up trunk space.

Visit distant family

Got some family members that live in a state - or maybe even another country? Why not ask to stay at theirs for a couple nights and take advantage of the free accommodation? This could be a great opportunity to catch up and enjoy some time away. Just make sure you provide enough warning.

You will still need to pay for travel, so factor this in. Book far ahead in advance and plan to fly on a weekday to reduce flight costs. 

Do volunteer work

There are many places such as farms, animal rescue centers and schools where you can get free accommodation in exchange for doing volunteer work. This might not be what some people consider a ‘vacation’, however if you’re more interested in travel rather than relaxing, it could be an option worth looking into.

As with visiting distant family, you will still need to pay for your travel, so make sure that you’ve got the money for this. Check out sites like Helpstay.com to find volunteer opportunities.

Start saving now

Still can’t afford any of these options? Or perhaps you’d prefer to stay in a hotel? Another solution is to start saving now. This can take a lot of discipline, but could ensure that you’re able to get that vacation you need. 

Even $10 per week is better than nothing - consider setting up a savings account that you can automatically pay into each month and avoid dipping into it for other purposes at all costs. 

Skills You Need to Possess If You Want to Work in Healthcare

The healthcare industry is a booming one. It's been projected to grow from $3 trillion in 2016 to over $4 trillion by 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicts that the number of health care jobs will increase by 19 percent between now and 2024, which is three times as fast as other industries are expected to grow.

If you're considering working in healthcare, then there are several skills that you will need to develop. There's no one skill that is more important than the other; instead, it's about developing a well-rounded set of skills and abilities. It's good that things like inclusive leadership coaching and other related services are being offered to people who want to work in healthcare these days. This way, people can be sure that they have the best chance of succeeding in this industry.

Image credit 

Working in Healthcare

Choosing a career path is no easy task, especially if you want to work in healthcare. Many factors go into choosing the right career for you, which can change depending on your personal situation.

However, some skills will be helpful regardless of which field you choose to pursue. Here is a list of the skills needed to succeed in healthcare jobs:

• Being able to manage and coordinate care

One of the essential skills you need working in healthcare is managing and coordinating care. This includes managing patients' care, coordinating with other healthcare team members, and making sure everyone involved is on the same page.

To be successful in this field, you need to be able to multitask and stay organized. This way, you can easily keep track of all the different aspects of a patient's care.

• Working with people from diverse backgrounds

You also need to be able to work with people from diverse backgrounds. This means understanding and respecting different cultures, religions, and lifestyles.

To provide the best possible care for patients, you need to be able to work with everyone on the healthcare team. This includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, and more.

By understanding and accepting diversity, you can help create a positive and welcoming environment for patients. This way, they will feel more comfortable and safe while receiving care.

• Being compassionate and patient

You also need to be compassionate and patient. This means being able to understand and respond to the needs of patients. Sometimes, patients may be in pain or feeling anxious. They may also have a lot of questions about their care.

It's your job to listen to them, answer their questions, and provide comfort whenever possible. If you can show compassion and stay patient, the patients will feel more at ease.

• Being able to work well in a team 

Working in healthcare means working with people-patients and other professionals alike. So you also need to be someone who can work well within a group or team setting. You should know how to communicate your ideas clearly when working together on projects or plans.

• Having strong communication and interpersonal skills

Having strong communication and interpersonal skills is key when working in the medical field. This includes listening attentively, expressing yourself clearly, and being respectful of others. It's also important to be patient and understanding, especially when working with patients who may be stressed or frightened.

• Being proactive 

In any career, it's always a good idea to be proactive when it comes to problem-solving. Healthcare is no exception. When working with patients, there may be times when something unexpected comes up. It's essential to have the ability to stay calm under pressure and think on your feet. This way, you can always provide the best possible care for your patients.

• Having a good bedside manner 

One of the most important skills you can have when working in healthcare is a good bedside manner. This means being kind, compassionate, and understanding towards your patients. It's also important to communicate effectively with them, whether it be working with their families or other healthcare professionals. If you're someone who can work well in a team, this is definitely one of the best skills to have when working in healthcare.

• Being able to make critical decisions quickly

In healthcare, it's vital to make quick decisions that are right for your patients. You should be working closely with other healthcare professionals, so it's important you can communicate effectively and work together as a team. This way, you can work together to put the best treatments and plans in place.

Taking the Challenges in Healthcare

Of course, working in healthcare means working long shifts and sometimes working through your lunch break, or other times you would usually take a break for yourself. If working well under pressure comes naturally to you, this could be another great skill for you to have when it comes to working in healthcare.

You can develop plenty of other skills to make sure you're the best possible fit for a healthcare career. The examples above are some of the most important ones.

Tips for Staying Sane During Your Home Construction or Renovation

Home seekers often spend many months or even years saving up and getting ready to either buy an established home or build the dream house that they always wanted. But it is a common occurrence that homes typically need some adjustments made so that they work well for the individuals or families that want to move in. Complete construction may be the task at hand, or a renovation to structures or systems in an existing home may be in order before you and your loved ones will feel completely comfortable in your new digs. You can stay happy through the process by keeping a few suggestions in mind to help make the process go more smoothly for you.

Schedule The Work

You will make life easier if you consider your schedule in earnest before arranging to have home construction or renovation work done. Some families find it works well to be away from the dwelling while the majority of heavy work is accomplished. Others discover that they will maximize their effectiveness by being on the worksite to answer questions and expedite the project. Factors outside, such as the impact of weather, may also come into play. Thinking about these aspects in advance will make for a much more pleasant experience for all concerned.

Examine The Systems

Renovation or construction is an excellent time to examine and repair or replace entire systems in your home. Consider your need for plumbing services, electrical workers or landscape designers at this important juncture in the project.

Hire Professionals

When it comes to large projects such as the building or renovation of a home, it makes sense to not try to go it alone but instead to reach out to trained professionals. You may need to consider the expertise of electricians or those who provide plumbing services Berlin MD to help bring your ideas for your home to fruition. If you live in a mobile home, it’s a good idea to get advice and assistance from specialists such as Top Notch Mobile Home Services. Think about what (or who) it is you need, and then reach out. You can get prices, information, and of course, book the work too. This will speed up the process and give you a much better end result.

Home construction or renovation can take anywhere from a few days to several months for professional work crews to make the changes needed. It pays to preplan to maintain a great experience for all concerned.

Maid of Honor Duties: Throwing a Party Extraordinaire for Your BFF

Not everyone is born with party genes. We are not born automatically with the talent to throw extraordinary parties at the drop of a hat. However, what's important to remember is that this party isn't for you. It doesn't matter if you're not fond of big parties as long as the bride is. You are tasked to throw a party for her and not for yourself. Forget your misgivings about having a grand party or an intimate one. It's the bride's last hurrah, as they say. Make it worth their time.

Image credit

Decide on the Location, Theme, and Date

First things first. Decide on when it will be, where it will be, and what theme it will be. You know the bride well enough to be the one to throw this party for her. Make sure that it will be something that she wants to spend time on. Are you going to surprise her, or will you let her know about the plans? If a surprise party is improbable, then make sure the bride agrees to the date and time. It doesn't matter if other of her friends can't make it. What matters is her schedule permits it.

Are you going to have a three-day party or just a night of revelry? Make sure the bride knows she will be away for a couple of days if that's your plan. Remember that brides have a lot on their plates. If you're sure she can be gone for a weekend, then throw that weekend party for her.

Think Outside the Box

Forget about a nice dinner or a spa date. Those are boring bridal parties (unless, of course, that's what the bride wants). If the bride wants a big party, you can rent a vacation home or hire a superyacht boat. There's nothing like partying in the middle of the sea. Just make sure everyone follows safety precautions to avoid incidents. Also, hire some lifeguards and put everyone's safety a priority.

If budget is not a problem, should you hire her favorite band? Can you rent a mobile bar and drink to your heart's content? You can ask other members of the bride's party to chip in so that you don't have to shoulder the whole expense of hosting the party.

Plan It Weeks in Advance

You can't throw a good party in a week, much fewer days. Make sure that you think about this plan weeks before. That allows everyone in the bride's circle to cross off that date and be there. The more people can attend the party, the merrier, right? Also, you don't want the bride's last party as a single woman to be so close to her wedding. It cannot be the night before because she will look swollen and puffy if she drinks too much alcohol.

At the very least, plan it two weeks before her big day. That gives the bride enough time to recuperate. She can have her skin glowing again.

Go Easy on the Activities

Don't feel like you have to pack the night with tons of activities. This is not a tour or a trip. This is a party, so let everyone mingle and talk. You can have a jukebox and have everyone take a spin of being the DJ for the night. Activities can be exhausting to think about and execute. Do not waste your time planning a program for the bride. At the very least, all you need to do is play a couple of games. As soon as the alcohol kicks in, partying is not a problem anymore.

Be All Out on Food and Drinks

Parties are all about the food and drinks you serve. Don't stress out too much about the food you want to serve. It helps to have a theme for the food such as the Mediterranean, American comfort food, Asian, and the likes. However, it is also okay to throw in all of the brides' favorites or everything that everyone will love. Lately, grazing tables were such a hit, so make sure you have one of these.

A cocktail bar might be the most important part of the food and drinks section of party planning. You can serve vodka, tequila, and wine. Try to avoid beers because they'll make everyone feel bloated fast.

Planning a party for your BFF doesn't have to be stressful. You know her better than anyone else. This party is for her. So, as long as she enjoys it, nothing else matters.

Ceiling Issues? Knowing When To "Look Up" Professional Help

 

Unsplash (CC0 License)

In many ways, a home is like a person. In the early days, they can have teething troubles, but as they settle and grow into themselves they become reliable and reassuring. The longer they’re around, the more likely they are to begin to show their age and the more faults will become recognizable. And the more faults develop, the more important it is to seek out help.

In a lot of other ways, a home isn’t like a person. With the correct maintenance, a home can live on indefinitely and be around for hundreds of years. This does however rely on the aforementioned maintenance being sought and delivered at the right times, which isn’t always easy. It does mean that you’ll need to keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, and this is particularly evident (and particularly important) when it comes to your ceiling. When there are problems developing over your head, it becomes essential to keep a close eye on the matter.

Sagging with age is not an inevitability

If your ceilings begin to sag, you’d be correct in thinking that it’s a sign of things not being as they should be. Most usually, it will be as a consequence of a burst or damaged pipe causing water to leak into the space between a floor upstairs and a ceiling downstairs. Gravity means the water will drip or flow down, and it can collect up and become a real problem. A sagging ceiling is your cue to call a plumber and get their opinion on what needs to be done. Doing it in a timely fashion can save you a more extensive and expensive repair.

Are the cracks beginning to show?

Cracks in your ceiling are not an ideal development, although they are not necessarily as big a problem as you may be thinking they are. They will certainly always need to be dealt with, although sometimes a DIY topical application of plaster and paint will be enough to take care of these signs of ageing. If, however, the cracks grow, or are deeper than just the surface, then a ceiling repair expert is going to need to be called. A crack running the length of your ceiling could mean the house is settling badly, and extensive work will be needed.

Spots and blemishes need attention

If your ceiling has developed black or grayish spots, there is a potential problem with mold that may not destroy your ceiling, but will have worse repercussions if left indefinitely. Black mold develops because of moisture hanging around, and can arise as a result of unmitigated humidity and poor ventilation. If you have a HVAC system, get it checked out, but also get that mold removed and put defenses in place against it. If black mold is breathed in by people, it can cause serious health problems which can become lethal if allowed to persist.

Your ceiling is quite possibly not something you look at particularly often. It’s just there, doing its job. But particularly as it gets older, you may want to give it a bit more care and attention. Recognizing issues and repairing them is vital for your home’s health, and your own.

4 Ways to Eliminate Funky Odors From Your Home

https://unsplash.com/photos/DX9VNOurSTY

As much as you love your home, you might come home one day and be hit in the face with an unpleasant funk. Whether it’s odor from stinky shoes, pets, or even a lack of ventilation, you should do everything you can to remove this funk and enjoy living in your home again. At the very least, you should do something so guests are happy to come over when you invite them. It can be tricky to get rid of the smell, though, so here are four ways you can eliminate them for good. 

Cover the Stench 

Although this won’t remove the odor for good, it can make your home a little nicer to live in, especially if you’re doing a quick clean on a Friday evening before everyone gets home from work or school. Using incense, scented candles and essential oils can bring a more pleasant aroma to the home, and if you use them regularly, you may eventually overcome the funk that is so off-putting every time you walk through the door. 

Check For Mold and Mildew 

Of course, if the funk persists, it's likely a sign of something that you have not managed to get rid of. The most common reasons for an unpleasant smell around your home are mold, mildew, and dampness. Usually, these issues occur in the bathroom, basement, and laundry room if you hang clothes to dry there without keeping the home warm enough to eliminate moisture. You can carry out testing for mold around the home to identify where it is not prominent, and this will help you eliminate it as soon as possible. You should do this quickly, as you don't want to encounter respiratory issues connected to mold spores. 

Open the Windows 

If your home smells off, but you haven’t found any evidence of mold or mildew, you can always simply open the windows to air the home out. This is an easy approach that is ideal for the blistering heat of the summer, although sinter might be a little trickier, especially if you live in climates that commonly reach well below zero. Opening the windows will give the air a chance the circulate and draw any moisture from the home that might be causing the odor if there is a dampness problem.

Clean Your Systems 

If you have an old HVAC system at home, there is a chance that you have neglected to take good care of it. The filter and the pipes might be blocked, and there could even be garden debris or other items inside that cause odor-filled air to distribute around your home. You can check the filters yourself, but a professional company like DUCTZ will be better adept at clearing any issues and ensuring your home smells fresh once more. 

Smell Be Gone

A home that smells nice is always a better place to live compared to one with a strange and underlying odor. While you can mask it with other aromas, you should find the source of the smell and consider the different ways you can get rid of it for good to enjoy a healthy and happy home. 

 

Introducing Vitabears - The Yummy Way to Achieve Better Health

One of the main goals I have in life is to stay healthy. I have written several posts about my struggle with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2. I have been diagnosed with this chronic illness 18 years ago and it has not been easy. Every morning, I have to use my glucometer to check my blood sugar levels. I need to take so many pills and inject myself with 18 units of insulin. I am so used to pricking my finger and sticking the needle of an insulin pen into my belly everyday. 

Despite all these, I am thankful that my blood sugar levels is controlled and within "acceptable results." I follow my doctor's advice of regular exercise, having six small meals a day, and strict compliance to my medication. Aside from these, I make sure that I do take supplements.

Why take supplements?

Dietary supplements are necessary to ensure that we meet the minimum daily requirements of vitamins, minerals and other compounds that are essential to keep our bodies functioning properly. You may wonder why take supplements when you can get the stuff you need from the food you eat. It does not work that way every time. Let's just say you need to increase your Vitamin C intake to 1000 mg. How many oranges do you need to eat to achieve that? Two kilograms. Yes, you read that right. 

What kind of supplements to take?

I have recently discovered a brand of dietary supplements in a chewable gummy bear form. Vitabears Chewable Vitamins are the best ones in the market. For those who know me by heart, it is not often that I recommend products, but when I do, it is because I believe in its authenticity and the benefits I have gained from these products. Vitamins and supplements in chewable form increase my compliance in taking them daily. They are delicious and fun to take. Placing the bottles beside my medicine dispenser is a good reminder for me to reach out and take them daily.

The products I chose are Detox Vitamins, Fat Buster, Flawless Glow and Skin Vitamins. There are other vitamin preparations available but I believe these 4 are what I need right now. Here are my reasons why I chose these four:

1. Vitabears Chewable Detox Vitamins

I wanted something to help rid my body of toxins and to improve gut health. This Detox Vitamins contain acetic acid from apple cider vinegar. It has been known that apple cider vinegar is good for our health because it helps keep the balance between good and bad bacteria in our gut. It aids digestion and promotes weight loss too. This supplement also provides beet root extract which is rich in folate, a key nutrient that helps keep our cardiovascular system healthy. The third ingredient is Pomegranate extract which helps reduce inflammation and aids to achieve gut health too. 

                                        Gut health - ✔
                                        Cardiovascular health - ✔

2. Vitabears Chewable Skin Vitamins

I have always been prone to having dry skin and hair. I believe that addressing this issue should come from within. Topical remedies are only temporary. Proper nutrition and adequate hydration plus supplements are the key to achieving this. Vitabears Skin Vitamins is packed with vitamins B, C, D and E and other key nutrients plus vegan collagen and glutathione, all working together to promote healthy skin, hair and nails. No premature aging for me now and good-bye age spots! 

                                        Helps reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - ✔
                                        Support joint and digestive health - ✔
                                        Helps reduce free radicals - ✔

3. Vitabears Chewable Flawless Glow Vitamins

I was hesitant at first to get to get this variant of Vitabears. I thought that I already have the vitamins for the skin, so I was thinking that this would just be the same. In a way, yes, it is quite similar but the difference is that this Flawless Glow vitamin supplement has Biotin and Magnesium. Biotin (Vitamin B7)  boosts the production of keratin and stimulates hair follicle growth. Magnesium has evidence based positive effects on our health such as anti inflammatory effects, lowering of blood pressure, helps in the management of Type 2 Diabetes (Yay!) and fights depression (second Yay!) I did not think twice and started taking these supplements daily. 

                                        Helps promote healthy hair and scalp - ✔

                                        Helps increase hair follicle growth - ✔

                                        Promotes healthy skin and shiny, lustrous hair - ✔

                                        Aids in proper management of Type 2 Diabetes - ✔

                                        Fights depression - ✔

4. Vitabears Chewable Fat Buster

Here's the truth. I am not fat. For my small 5'2" frame, I weigh 53 kilograms (116 pounds). Still within the normal range. So why did I opt to get a supplement that would make me lose weight? My reason is this - I want to maintain my current weight. Being diabetic, I have to be careful not to be overweight or else other health problems may arise. I have to admit there are days when I binge eat and I know that is not healthy at all. I sometimes cannot resist indulging in sweets and that is not good. This Vitabears Fat Buster contains essential vitamins, minerals, Garcinia cambogia, L-Carnitine and Green coffee extracts. The last three ingredients work primarily to help reduce fat, increase release of serotonin (makes you feel full) and increases metabolism. To be honest, I am a label reader and I thoroughly check the nutrition/supplement facts first. With this Vitabears Fat Burner supplement, I will have to ask my endocrinologist for advice to make sure that this would not have any adverse reaction with the medications I am taking for my Diabetes and Hypercholesterolemia.

                                        Helps suppress appetite - ✔

                                        Increases metabolism and gives you more energy - ✔

                                        Fat reduction - ✔

                                        Aids in digestion -  ✔

Conclusion:

Vitabears chewable supplements are a great way to help you enjoy taking your vitamins. They are organic, gluten free, non-GMO, vegan friendly, with no artificial sweeteners. Manufactured in South Korea and exclusively distributed by Defyr Media Solutions. 

Of these four variants, my favorites are the Skin Vitamins and the Flawless Glow. I am not one that would spend hours on a skin care routine, so the best way for me is to boost skin health from within. Achieving healthy hair and skin in an effortless way! 

I have been taking these vitamins for 5 days and I am waiting to see more positive results. Right now, I feel I have more energy to get me through my busy days. I will update this post after a month and let you know how these vitamins worked for me. 

If can no longer wait for my update and you'd want to start right away on your journey to good health, you can purchase these Vitabears products from authorized sellers on the Shopee or Lazada app. You may also view more products on the Vitabears official website - https://vitabears.ph

Note: The above mentioned products are dietary supplements with no therapeutic claims. Pregnant or nursing women, and those taking medication would need to consult a doctor before use.

How To Effectively Manage Mental Health Challenges

Image Credit

Mental health consists of having a good state of mind and emotional well-being to cope with anything life throws at you. According to health experts, mental health affects your choices, feelings, relationships, and actions and goes beyond not having a mental disorder. As much as mental health affects everyday life, daily situations can also affect your mental health. Making simple changes to your lifestyle and building healthy habits can significantly impact your mental health and overall well-being. Here are some effective ways to manage mental health challenges.

Be expressive about your feelings

Bottling up your feelings could negatively affect your mental health. On the other hand, expressing how you feel can help you cope with situations better and identify what’s troubling you. Admitting your feelings doesn’t make you weak but rather makes you proactive towards prioritizing your mental health. Getting someone to talk to or writing down your feelings can help prevent you from feeling isolated and calm you down. If you’re having difficulty opening up about how you feel, you can try using different words to visualize what’s going on in your mind and how it makes you feel. 

Avoid using unhealthy coping mechanisms 

If you’re dealing with any mental issues, it’s best to avoid self-medicating or looking for temporary relief through drinking, smoking, etc. These may often make you feel worse after their effect wears off, still leaving the need for you to tackle the situation you’re facing. It’s best to find healthier coping mechanisms that have long-term benefits for your health. If you’re in or around Dallas and need support or counseling, you can get all the information you need on https://www.sunshinebehavioralhealth.com/texas/dallas/

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise doesn’t only benefit your physical health but also your mental health. According to health experts, exercise releases feel-good hormones into your brain, improving your mood, boosting self-esteem, and increasing concentration. Suppose you don’t have much time for vigorous exercise. In that case, you can still be active through daily activities such as dancing to your favorite music, taking a walk in the park, or regular house duties like gardening. The most important thing is to do something you enjoy, and that can help you get at least 20-30 minutes of exercise every day. Remember to eat healthily and drink lots of water in addition to your exercise.

Stay connected

Isolating yourself could make managing your mental health challenging. On the other hand, surrounding yourself with supportive family and friends can encourage you and make you feel loved and less overwhelmed when facing stressful situations. Apart from supporting you, they can help give you a fresh outlook on things and give you the human connection you need to keep going. If you’re unable to stay connected in person, there are other options to consider to help you stay in touch with them, such as video calls and online chats. As you build your human connections, it’s also essential that you avoid people who negatively impact your mental health and break off any toxic relationships. 

Find The Appropriate Support

It’s important to speak to people who can help you, as there’s no shame in reaching out, in fact it takes courage to do this. However, it’s important you try and find the appropriate help you need. For instance, speaking to a doctor about post-natal depression can help you find direct support and join social groups dedicated to supporting this. The same goes for other essential issues, such as PTSD treatment for veterans, or those suffering from sudden grief.

Take time off

Sometimes, taking a step back from your busy daily routine could yield great benefits for your mental health. It doesn’t need to be anything drastic; even taking ten minutes or a day or two off can go a long way to renew your mind and give you the respite you need. Taking some time off doing something you enjoy or just having some me-time is essential for taking care of your mental health. It can either mean doing nothing at all or doing something active. If you need an activity that will quiet your mind, you can try relaxation exercises such as yoga and meditation, which help to calm you down. It’s all about taking some time to relax and providing a healthy environment for your health. As a plus, doing this will also boost your self-esteem. 

Understanding hearing loss' effect on mental health challenges 

In managing mental health challenges, it's crucial to recognize the connection between hearing loss and overall psychological well-being. Hearing impairment can contribute to social isolation, depression and anxiety - further exacerbating existing mental health conditions. Consultation with a licensed audiologist is an invaluable step toward mitigating such risks. Professional audiologists can assess hearing health, provide personalized solutions, and recommend hearing aids or therapeutic strategies to enhance communication abilities. Addressing hearing issues as part of mental health care can significantly enhance quality of life while leading to positive mental health outcomes.

 Accept yourself for who you are 

Your self-perception could affect your mental health. If you view yourself negatively, you may end up not putting much effort into doing things beneficial to your mind and your body. It would help if you focused on the things that make you stand out instead of comparing yourself to others. You can also speak positive words to yourself every morning to help improve how you view yourself. Doing this boosts your mental health. It also makes you feel good about yourself and allows you to celebrate your unique traits. It will also prevent you from being too hard on yourself in challenging situations and help you see the good side of things. 

Going on a Winter Trip? Here's Where You Can Leave Your Car

We are in the second pandemic holiday season. However, it'll be different this year, as more people can travel now. In fact, according to Deloitte, 42% of people will travel twice, while 53% will travel thrice for the US holiday season from Thanksgiving to mid-January.

With all the merry-makers traveling from one place to another, airport parking lots will be busier than ever. It'll become difficult to save a spot for your car when you go on your vacation, too. In this case, you may wonder where to leave your car when going away for a few weeks this holidays.

Image credit

Planning where to leave your car is similar to the way you prepare your house as you leave it empty for the holidays. You have to ensure that it's safe, secure, and still intact by the time you return. For this reason, this article will help you learn about car storage and parking options for travelers. Whether you'll be away for a few days or weeks, you have somewhere to leave your car in.

Airport Parking

An airport parking lot is the best option for all travelers. Whether it's just for a few hours, a few days, or for several weeks, you can safely and securely leave your car at an airport.

If you're not going to be away overnight, you can use an airport's short-term parking lot. They are often closer to a terminal but pricier. This parking option can only be recommended for travelers who will be gone for not more than 24 hours or for those who are picking passengers. There are cell phone waiting lots in some airports that drivers can use while waiting to pick up passengers at the terminal.

You can use an airport's long-term parking lot if you're leaving your car for a few days, weeks, or even a month.

According to CNBC, parking costs vary depending on your location, though. It can range from $42 to $273 for a week and $180 to $1,170 for a month. The priciest airport parking lot in the US is at Boston's Logan International. The average daily parking cost is $21.76. The most affordable one is at the Denver International at an average of $2.50 per day.

Booking your long-term parking in advance can save you on fees. You can get discounts if you also have an AAA (American Automobile Association) membership.

Off-airport parking facilities are cheaper if you want to save more money or if you're headed to a place where the on-site airport parking fees are high. They may be a bit farther, though, typically about 15 to 20 minutes away. However, they offer a shuttle service to the airport.

Whether you're leaving your car at an airport or off-site airport parking lot, it's best to follow the general rules of public parking. Don't leave any valuables inside your vehicle. If you've chosen a parking lot without a roof, don't forget to bring a cover for your car.

Private Parking Spaces

You can also leave your car in private parking spaces. However, the level of safety and security for these facilities vary depending on the location.

One option is to use in-city parking lots that often attract RV and boat owners who don't have a space in their homes for their bulky modes of transportation.

Another option is to leave your car at your office if it's located near an airport. You don't have to spend if you do so. However, facility security would check vehicles if they sit long enough in the parking lot. Make sure to inform your office if they'll be notified about your car.

A Friend or Family's Garage

If you're unsure about leaving your car at an airport or other parking spaces, you can leave it at a friend or family's house. However, if you permit them to use your vehicle, make sure that it has the protection it needs. With this in mind, you must install the right floor mats and seat covers. Purchase everything you need from a car mat store that offers all kinds of car accessories so that you can get discounts.

Leave It at Home

Leaving your car at home can also be a good option if you're unsure when you'll be back. Having it in the garage can give you peace of mind that your car is protected against the elements and critters, which are common problems for vehicles left in the open for long periods. Inclement weather can damage the aesthetics of your car, while critters can get inside your vehicle and nibble on wires.

Leave It, But Don't Forget It

If you're leaving for the holidays and will not be back for the next six months, it's better to just sell your car. Lack of maintenance for such a long period can quickly depreciate your vehicle. You can also save on insurance if you put your car up for sale.

Remember that cars aren't meant to be neglected. Preparing your vehicle and planning where to store it while you're away can keep it in good shape when you return from your vacation. Consider the options above to ensure that it's still intact when you get back.

The Role of Organizational Culture in the Modern Workplace

 

The war for talent has gone more intense every year. To score top talent, companies are flaunting their work culture to appeal to job candidates, especially the millennials and Gen Zs.

In Singapore, SMRT CEO, Neo Kian Hong has done critical steps to promote a positive and structured work environment across all departments. This approach helped his company produce a professional workforce equipped with world-class skills.

Organizational culture matters a lot for companies, especially those who are conscious of how they are being perceived by their employees, customers, and media. This is because a strong culture has a great impact on the company's overall performance, retention, recruitment, and employee performance.

In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the role of organizational culture in the modern workplace and how it affects the way people work.

Defines the company's corporate identity

Organizational culture defines how the organization does business and how it interacts with its employees, customers, media, suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders.

This means the organizational culture is a reflection of your business because it embodies how you do business. Similarly, it also represents your identity and brand image, which determines how employees and consumers perceive your company. Although you can easily share the cultural values of your organization through the company website and social media, it still pays to make it more apparent throughout the company by applying it to everyday operations and interactions.

Increases employee motivation

Most employers think that motivation to work lies in salary increases, paid holidays, flexible schedules, and health insurance. Truth is, organizational culture also helps in building motivation by providing an environment where employees feel their values are represented. From marketing products or services to employer-employee relationships, a strong organizational culture motivates people to work harder.

Employees take cues from the management when forming opinions about the workplace culture. Once they have adapted to the company's shared norms, this unifies management and employees. In turn, the unity will make employees feel they are a part of the organization. This leads them to feel more involved in contributing to the success of the business, not just for their personal accomplishments.

Nothing feels better when you're excited about coming to work every morning. You feel motivated to do your best not only for your professional development but also for the success of the company and your colleagues. This can only happen if you provide a supportive culture where everyone feels valued.

Better recruitment

First impressions are essential when attracting and recruiting top-performing job candidates. The young generation of job seekers, particularly millennials and Gen Zs, are now considering company values when choosing an ideal employer. For them, the hiring experience is a reflection of how the company cares for its people. They also prefer working environments with a clearly defined value and a strong sense of purpose.

Some companies recruit candidates based on whether they are culture-fit for the workforce, while placing experience as the second priority. This approach is called team-first corporate culture. It means if employees value their coworkers and feel at ease in their current work environment, they are more likely to be motivated to work harder.

Determining if a candidate fits the company culture is an effective deciding factor in the event when two potential applicants are neck and neck in the recruitment process. This can be done by providing personal tests that include a section on culture-fit to evaluate the applicant's workplace values.

Higher employee retention

Recruiting top talent is just half of the battle. Knowing how to retain them is where the real challenge begins. HR leaders reveal that employee retention and turnover are the biggest challenges in managing employees.

People who feel respected and valued at a company are less likely to leave. That's why companies need to create a strong organizational culture that reflects their mission statement and core values. Satisfied employees mean higher retention, which saves employers time, money, and effort in the recruitment process. But this isn't just a one-time thing. To make this possible, companies should take time to maintain and further enhance their culture.

Employees are expecting more than health insurance, paid time offs, and a large paycheck. They now crave a workplace that is supportive, rewards good performance, and offers plenty of opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing. This explains why engaged company cultures have lower rates of turnover.

In the end, the main purpose of a strong organizational culture is making employees feel comfortable and satisfied at work. The office becomes a place where they can be themselves and can drive career to its fullest potential.

The Top Benefits of Professional Appliance Repair

As a homeowner, you may prefer the DIY approach when dealing with appliance issues. However, in most situations, it’s better to seek professional service. There are a few reasons to call the pros; keep reading to learn what those reasons are.

Image credit

Safety  

One of the top reasons to call the professionals for appliance repair Carrollton TX is the possibility of safety issues and hazards. Many people have accidentally injured themselves because of issues like muscle pulling or straining, burns, electrical shock, or even falling objects. Professionals, on the other hand, have the knowledge and ability to avoid these issues. There’s no reason to try to do something yourself that may lead to an injury.

Quality

Unless you are an expert in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing your appliances, it is not likely you can handle fixing a washing machine, dishwasher, or refrigerator better than the pros. Even if you understand and follow the step-by-step online instructions, it doesn’t mean things will go well. If you don’t have prior experience, you won’t know what’s normal and what’s not.

Time

If you don’t mind putting time and effort into fixing things, you may not mind these projects. However, they do often require a huge commitment of your time. If you don’t have much spare time, it will probably make more sense to call the professionals for appliance repair. They will have the skills, ability, and time to handle the job quickly and ensure things are back up and running so you can get on with your life.

As you can see, there are more than a few reasons you should hire professionals for appliance repair. With the information here, you can make an informed decision and get your appliances back up and running quickly, which is the goal that most people have. 

Career Opportunities for an MSCJ Holder

 

If you have a Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) or you are planning to get one and you are wondering what jobs you can do with such a degree, you can rest assured that we have your back. 

The fact is that there are several jobs that you can do with an MSCJ. Therefore, in this article, we will look at a few of these jobs to help you choose your career path. Visit https://post.edu/blog/challenge-choosing-career-path/ to learn how to choose the perfect career.

Let’s begin, shall we?

1. Criminal Profiler

This involves the literal design and creation of criminal profiles that will enable law enforcement personnel to solve crimes. 

Such an individual will have to go through the process of examining different characteristics regarding a crime or crimes that have been perpetrated by a particular criminal. This examination will then allow the profiler to build the criminal’s personality profile. 

With this developed profile, the whereabouts or the criminal’s next move can be tracked down to enable the police or other law agents to apprehend such an individual.

2. Director of Court Services

For this professional, their primary duty is to plan and execute compliant processes and practices that will be carried out in court systems. 

Apart from the above duty, some directors handle certain specific projects in different programs which include financial auditing, jury systems, child support prosecution, records management, forms creation, court operations, etc. 

Furthermore, the director might be tasked with hiring and firing staff and will oversee coaching, training, as well as the orientation of subordinate staff. 

3. Criminologist

The job of a criminologist is to study the basic factors that motivate folks into committing crimes and breaking the law. 

This individual makes use of conducted research to define these motivating factors responsible for illegal and criminal behavior. When these factors are well-defined, the criminologist will use the knowledge acquired from the MSCJ programs to develop tactics to stop such crimes.

4. U.S. Marshal

U.S. Marshals carry out different kinds of law enforcement duties which include high and basic profile tasks. They can be part of different types of operations to bring felons to justice. 

In most cases, they aid of task forces assigned to track and arrest felons, protect judges or jurors, transport prisoners, protect witnesses, etc. 

5. FBI Agent

These federal agents are involved in dealing with national-level criminal investigations. The kind of crimes they deal with includes organized crime, terrorism, drug trafficking, foreign counterintelligence, extortion, white-collar crime, etc. 

FBI agents can obtain and execute warrants and even collect evidence. They are also allowed to appear and testify in court. They regularly interact with witnesses and even suspects as they gather evidence to aid them to close a case. 

6. DEA Agent

Agents under the Drug Enforcement Administration deal primarily with drug crimes. They investigate happenings within the drug industry and apprehend any perpetrator of illegal activities. 

Due to the vastness of the industry wherein they operate, the locations of operations of these agents are scattered across the globe. Hence, as an agent, you might be sent to a different country for an assignment. 

Some of the duties an agent will carry out include writing reports, monitoring activities that are drug-related, aiding undercover operations, organizing and handling efforts of anti-drug task forces, appearing in courts as a witness, arresting criminals, seizing evidence such as drugs, weapons, or money, etc. Click here to check out the DEA’s most wanted fugitives.

7. Forensic Psychologist 

This type of psychology deals with behavioral study to enable problem-solving such as lawsuits, insurance disputes, and custody conflicts. 

Forensic psychologists are usually found in civil courts where they work in association with felons to decide on the best solution for the case at hand. 

Furthermore, they are tasked with the assessment of persons to ascertain their proficiency regarding a case. They also administer therapy to crime victims and serve as second opinion providers in certain difficult cases. 

These professionals can also be given the duty of working with/on child witnesses to enable such children to provide the required information for that case. They can also be asked to provide a general evaluation of an offender to determine his culpability.

When it comes to cases where children are involved, it is the duty of the forensic psychologist to assess custody cases, provide follow-up to abuse reports, and also assist in deciding if a particular individual is qualified to take care of a child. 

8.  College Professor

With an MSCJ degree, you can become a college professor who teaches students a wide range of topics which include society criminology, law, crime patternism, and psychology, etc. 

Some of the duties that accompany this job include developing assignments, creating lesson plans, monitoring the progress of students via their tests, papers, and grades. 

A college professor will sometimes offer career path advice to students to enable them to select the best career path.

Conclusion

With so many job opportunities, you can see that you haven’t made a mistake in bagging or planning to bag an MSCJ. From the jobs above, you can decide on which one is best for you, and begin the process of applying for that job.

Cheers to your success!

Six Steps To A Successful Life Plan

A life plan is a blueprint for your future. How would you like to see your future unfold? If you want to be successful, create an actionable game plan that will help set the course of where you are heading in life. Here are six steps to creating a powerful and effective life plan.

Via Pexels

Vision

Your vision for your life plan is the most significant part of creating a successful one. It can be as simple or complex as you want, but it needs to include every aspect that makes up YOUR story and how you see yourself living out those stories.

Every story needs a beginning, middle, and end. Your life plan is no different. You must understand how you want to start your story to know where it will lead or what path you need to take for the best possible outcome. This may sound very simplistic but many people cannot see past their current circumstances when trying to create a vision.

Self Assessment

This is a tool that will help you to better understand what your strengths and weaknesses are. It can also be used as a starting point for setting goals, writing plans of action, and creating timelines.

It involves looking at who you are instead of just accepting things about yourself because they've always been a part of your life. It's a way to take some time out and think about what you want from yourself in the future, while also looking at what you have already achieved so far.

Prioritize 

They are what will guide you through your day-to-day actions, they are what will determine how successful you are in achieving important milestones and reaching major goals. Your priorities need to be realistic but also aspirational so that when things get tough or when it is time for a change, there is always something driving you forward. They have to be your priorities and you need to believe in them wholeheartedly because if they are not, it is going to feel like a chore or an obligation rather than something that comes naturally.

Your Future

It's the one thing you have actual control over. This means it's important that we're proactive in our choices and make sure they align with our vision of a successful life plan. No one knows what the future holds, all you can do is prepare for it. The most important thing you can control is your financial planning. Seek advice for investments and retirement plans so you can rest easy knowing you have a plan that will look after you when the time comes.

Put it into Action

Take Action! Now that you have set milestones for each of the goals on your list and identified what action to take to make them come true, it's time to put those plans into motion. Call that financial planner or personal trainer if need be and get going.

Assess and Change Course

You can gain a better understanding of how well you are progressing towards your goals by evaluating your progress. Are you on track with deadlines? Do you feel confident about the plan and milestones set for each goal?

Change as needed if at any point during this process, it becomes clear that your plan is not working, you may need to change course.

In conclusion, using this six-step plan outlined above will help you achieve your goals and make a successful life plan. The steps to creating a life plan are fairly straightforward. The main thing is that you take the time and do it!