Do more than just talk; act. Do more than just…

Do more than just talk; act. Do more than just promise; deliver. – Steve Maraboli

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Stay patient and trust your journey.

Stay patient and trust your journey.

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Life is short. Do stuff that matters. – Siqi Chen

Life is short. Do stuff that matters. – Siqi Chen

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Just say yes and you’ll figure it out afterwards. -…

Just say yes and you’ll figure it out afterwards. – Tina Fey

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8 Things To Remember When You Want To Praise Your Children

Are you praising your child too much? Is there a risk that he or she might become a narcissist? According to some studies, this is what happens when parents tend to go overboard with their praise. Parents may think that they are building the child’s self-esteem but that is not borne out by the studies. But the right kind of praise can be powerful for motivating kids. Here are 8 things to keep in mind when you want to praise your kids so that they grow up with a healthy self-esteem.

“People with high self-esteem think they’re as good as others, whereas narcissists think they’re better than others.”- Brad Bushman (co-author of the above study).

1. Avoid general blanket statements of praise.

Telling your kid that she is a clever girl or that he has done a great job is risky. You need to be more specific. Focus on the effort she put into it. Your kid’s team may not have won the match but you were really impressed with the effort he put in. He played well and that was also because he practised a lot. It is better to say, “Your practice paid off because I saw you hitting that ball really hard.” This is much better than making a rather weak, “Pity your team lost.” This is focusing on the negative outcome and not making any reference to all the hard work and sweat.

2. Make sure the praise is sincere.

It was a difficult job and the kid did well so that deserves praise. If you praise the child for every little mundane task, then this is counterproductive and may not sound sincere. The danger here is that the child may not risk trying new challenges because she may fail and she may lose her champion status! There is another problem in that the child must always get the parent’s approval and this is very limiting.

3. Don’t offer cash incentives.

Money may be a motivator but if the child grows up thinking that life is like the stock exchange, we are missing out on instilling values such as gains in self-esteem following success. Also, this could become expensive if cash is the only reward for doing well! A much better idea is to celebrate with a treat, outing or a special meal because you are also sharing in the success. It is the hard work and persistence we want to reward, rather than making easy cash.

4. Don’t overdo the child’s talents.

Praising a child’s good looks, intelligence or artistic ability on a regular basis is really overdoing it. If the child always hears “You’re a born musician”, then he or she assumes that not much effort is needed to improve. The child may also tune it out because it has been repeated too often. It becomes meaningless.

5. Praise must be geared towards new objectives.

The aim of praise is to encourage and motivate towards achieving new goals and milestones. One of the best ways of doing this is to mark steps in progress. You can say, “You’ve really improved in Math since last semester. You should be proud of that.” You can then remind your kid of the next hurdle which may be another test or exam.

6. Stop showing off about your child.

If your child hears you bragging about his or her achievements (Isn’t Maria the best speller you’ve ever seen?”), it puts unnecessary pressure on your kid to be always the best, always at the top of the class. That can be negative and also creates an over competitive environment among children. Inevitably, they will sometimes fail or do less well and that may have a negative effect on their motivation. In addition, the child is lulled into a false sense of security which defeats the learning benefits of praise.

7. Use body language when appropriate.

Often, verbal praise may be inappropriate and may interrupt some activities. Giving kids a thumbs up while they are picking up is much better because you are not going to interrupt the job. When a child is concentrating on her reading and being really absorbed, you can pat her on the back or give her a gentle hug.

8. Don’t use sarcasm.

If you use sarcastic remarks which are supposed to be praise, they are pretty useless. First, the child does not understand sarcasm and may also resent the fact that you are harping on about his or her previous failings or unsuccessful efforts. Instead of saying, “Finally, you have learned to swim without the arm bands,” you should say “I bet you can’t wait to show your friends that you can now swim.” Always concentrate on the achievement and celebrate it with an appropriate remark. This is much better than reminding them of their past errors or failures.

As we have seen, making praise constructive is the key. Keep focusing on the effort and commitment your kids show. They will grow up much more independent and resourceful and also have a healthy self-esteem.

Featured photo credit: Nate swimming/Mike Young via flickr.com

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15 Things Students Really Want From Teachers

At a time when technology and innovations have really taken charge, there exists a gap in communication between students and teachers. All teachers have once been students, and many times they want to help and be more effective. Teaching is not a rosy job. Sometimes you have to confront the difficulties that arise in the learning process.

So to save you all the time and effort this article will tell you 15 things students want from their teachers. As parents, this could be a rich source of understanding your kids better. As students, this will serve as a voice of your expectations.

1. They want teachers who make class interesting and fun

Students have proactive and exuberant minds; they want a class that is active and can provide a shared responsibility for learning.

2. They want teachers who are passionate

Students want a teacher who loves his or her job. They can tell if a teacher doesn’t want to be there with them. Being enthusiastic about teaching and showing they love their subjects can be an exciting factor to students.

3. They want a teacher who wants to help them learn

The teacher has to show a positive attitude to ensuring the child learns what their teaching. It could take more explanation, patience and guidance. The focus should be on the child to learn.

4. They want teachers who can admit their mistakes

Students are very watchful and most times they are attentive to your actions as a teacher. They want to know you are the right person to offer direction in their class. By admitting your mistakes, you prove to them that you are human and honest about who you are.

5. They want a teacher who doesn’t just lecture

Excessive lecturing can take them away from the essence of the class – teaching. Students want to be taught and not lectured. It shouldn’t be about reading off a PowerPoint. Teachers should try to tell stories or offer examples that will capture their imaginative minds.

6. They want a teacher who is respectful

Respect is reciprocal. To earn the respect of the student, students want someone who is approachable, positive and nice.

7. They want teachers who value their time

It is important to appreciate any effort that the student makes. By commending them, showing appreciation or encouraging them you show that you value their time and whatever effort they are putting in to learning.

8. They want teachers who are focused on teaching

You are not the salesman in car dealership; you are not the politician requesting for their votes; you are their teacher. You should focus on the assignment you are tasked to do for them.

9. They want teachers who will challenge them

Challenging students means you are showing them and guiding them how to handle it. Whether it is a class project or assignment, challenge them to get their work done.

10. They want some space, too

Whatever you are trying to impact may take time. So offer them the time and space for things to sink in. Time to think, reflect, play and process.

11. They want to be noticed

Students want to know that the teacher has his eye on him or her. Try leaving special messages in their locker or make a quick comment that shows you notice them.

12. They want teachers who encourages them to speak up

Let them ask questions; let them be able to share their perspectives on a subject. Even if they are off topic, just give them a chance to share their thoughts.

13. They want teachers who are lenient

The school is not a scene out of the movie Matilda or marine camp. Students like teachers who are calm and who are easy to get along with.

14. They want teachers who can relate to them

They want teachers who can build on a teacher/student relationship. This means understanding them and this may take time and effort to get to know who they really are.

15. They want teachers who are good class managers

Students do not like a teacher who favors certain students over them. They want a teacher who can manage his or her class and show that he/she is the captain of the ship.

It is important that you also know that we all have a responsibility to make a positive impact in a child’s life regardless of whether we are a teacher or not.

Featured photo credit: www.pixabay.com via pixabay.com

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Real men stay faithful. They don’t have time to look…

Real men stay faithful. They don’t have time to look for other women because they’re too busy looking for new ways to love their own.

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Sometimes we fail. Sometimes we win. But we always recover.

Sometimes we fail. Sometimes we win. But we always recover.

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Don’t be intimidated by what you don’t know. – Sara…

Don’t be intimidated by what you don’t know. – Sara Blakely

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A Touching Video About Life–Made Entirely out of Yarn

Stories about life and death usually impact people in a tremendous way, and the one presented in this video doesn’t fail to deliver.

What is especially unique about the classic story presented here is that it is done using stop-motion technology. And, unlike most stop-motion videos, this one uses figures made entirely out of yarn.

I don’t mean to get all symbolic, but the use of yarn–something that can be unraveled and tangled so easily–is great in conveying the idea that life is fleeting (something that we all need to be reminded of from time to time).

Best of all, the touching scenes play out to a powerful musical score (let’s not forget that this is, first and foremost, a music video). I imagine that if you like the artist featured in this video, you’ll be impacted by the yarn-based scenes even more than those of us who are unfamiliar with his music.

Did this video cause you to become emotional? Did you enjoy the techniques used? Comment below!

Featured photo credit: Yarn/ Emma Westby via flickr.com

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Top 5 Ways How to Make Money Online Fast ✎ Work From Home Jobs £ Making Money Online

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Top 5 Ways How to Make Money Online Fast ✎ Work From Home Jobs £ Making Money Online

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Compete with yourself not with others.

Compete with yourself not with others.

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Take a moment let your heart unwind.

Take a moment let your heart unwind.

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A few nice words can help a person a lot…

A few nice words can help a person a lot more than you think.

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When you realize you want to spend the rest of…

When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

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How To Make Money Online – Work From Home Jobs – Make Money With Surveys

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How To Make Money Online – Work From Home Jobs – Make Money With Surveys

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10 Things Dogs Really Want Their Owners To Do

We need dogs and they need us. The problem is that very often, we neglect to give them their basic needs. They were originally wolves about 100,000 years ago and about 15,000 years ago, they became domesticated animals. They are truly man’s best friend as they have hunted, guarded, nurtured and cared for humans ever since then. The dogs themselves thrive on being loved, protected and when they can help humans in distress. Dog brain scans now help us understand how dogs react to smells and odors.

In the town where I live, there are countless dogs but it is very rare to see them being exercised. They are used exclusively as guard dogs but as they yap and bark at anybody and everybody, I do not think they are very useful at all! They have certainly not been trained in any way and they are often left outside in unpleasant climate conditions.

What can help a dog to be healthy, happy and feel wanted? Here are 10 things that dogs really want their owners to know.

“Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail.”- Kinky Friedman

1. They want a safe and comfortable living environment.

Some dogs like the Siberian husky and the German shepherd can be quite happy living outside in a doghouse, even in a cold climate. But experts are now telling us that, although dogs always lived outside for centuries, there are now more risks. Just think of dangerous gardening tools, pesticides, poisonous snakes, nasty neighbors and so on. But the biggest threat comes from extreme weather so a dog can freeze to death in winter or get heat stroke in the torrid summer. Dogs like to be outside at times but the best solution is to make sure they have their own space inside.

2. They do not want to be trapped in a parked car.

How many times have you seen a dog suffer in a parked car? I bet, lots of times. Watch the video where the veterinarian tries it out for himself. Although the windows are opened one or two inches, the temperature rises from 97°F to 117°F after 30 minutes. As dogs cannot perspire, they suffer terribly and they also feel helpless because they are not in control of the situation. The rule is never leave your dog in a parked car in warm weather.

3. They want to be taken out for exercise.

They need exercise and a change of scene. Every dog needs a daily walk and if you cannot do it, try to find a dog walker. Exercise helps the dog to keep fit, avoid digestion and behavior problems. Vary the route and allow the dog to explore all the new smells. Being left in the yard is not enough because the dog will not run up and down like an athlete in training!

Keeping them isolated and confined can lead to all sorts of behavior problems. I have just looked out of my window at my neighbour’s dog and their garden has been ruined by his destructive digging. He is very rarely taken out for a walk.

4. They want to socialize.

Exposing the dog to other dogs and people is a great way to socialize them. But make a few mistakes here and your dog will end up being either too aggressive or very shy. The dog needs to get used to other dogs so that she behaves well at dog fairs, community events and when meeting other dogs during exercise. Frenetic and noisy kids should be avoided and also the owner should try and get the dog used to men with beards, women with long skirts, different floor textures, mixed weather and strange smells. These are all part of your dog socialization program.

An extreme case scenario is where you have a dog fight on your hands or where he or she might bite a child. Usually, the dog is overwhelmed and the owner might claim that he was working on socialization for the dog.

5. They need boundaries, just like kids.

Call it what you like: training, management or guidance, but every dog needs this. We tend to forget that a dog has the brain of a two year old child and therefore needs boundaries, rules, manners and consequences. Experts say that the training sessions should never last more than 10 minutes and they should always end on a high note, with the dog having done it right and getting a reward. The rewards for the dog and the owner are great. You have a calmer and more cheerful pet.

6. They want to eat well.

Just like us, they love their food. Some people are convinced that giving dogs raw meat is just what they would have had when they were like wolves. The fact is that a dog’s digestive system has evolved since then and is no longer equipped to process this raw meat. There is a real danger of getting salmonella or suffering from E. coli which is no joke. A balanced diet of fat, carbs and protein is best. Also, most dogs do best with eating in the morning and the evening.

7. They need brain training.

Maybe you thought that dogs just need physical exercise for a healthy body. But the dog also has a brain which can be stimulated through games, toys and other devices. They want to investigate and discover using their brains and senses. You may want to play with her. But when she is on her own she would like to have a safe chew toy, for example. There are doggie board games and puzzles now available. Exposing your dog to new situations, sights and smells, such as going to the car wash, is also a good way to enrich her existence. Any activity which will help her focus, think and solve problems will make her a smarter and happier pet.

8. They need to earn a reward.

Every time you comfort a dog when he is afraid, this is interpreted as a reward and the fearful behavior becomes reinforced so it will happen with sickening regularity. Much the same goes when we give him a treat which he has not earned at all. It is recommended that you ask him to fetch something or sit before he actually gets the treat.

There are now work-to-eat toys which can contain the dog’s food. He has to work out how to open these to eat by pawing or nosing it. Some of the more popular ones are called Buster Cube or Dog Pyramid.

9. They do not want too much talk.

People talk to their dogs all the time and they do not realize that body language is far more effective than mere words. As we said above, the dog has a brain like a two year old child. We have to use the right body language though. A classic example when we talk too much during training. If we want the dog to stay and not come towards us, we tend to put up our hand. The dog interprets that as an invitation to come forward! It is much better to use our body language more effectively and to talk less.

10. They do not want to be hugged!

What could be more natural than to hug a dog affectionately? Actually, dogs hate being hugged. The reason is a simple one. Dogs have no arms and see this as an attempt at dominance on your part. But you only want to be affectionate. It’s not on. The dog will feel threatened or afraid.

Dogs will sometimes tolerate hugs from kids because they know them well but otherwise, this is often when dog bites happen. Look at what happens when a child tries a hug. The dog may lick her lips or pull her ears back against her head which means she is not happy at all. If you want to express your love, try rubbing her back near her tail and don’t pat her head. She does not like it!

Featured photo credit: Dog/LuAnn Snawder Photography via flickr.com

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Being someone’s first love may be great, but to be…

Being someone’s first love may be great, but to be their last is beyond perfect.

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Know where you came from to know where you’re going….

Know where you came from to know where you’re going. Know who you came from to understand who you are.

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10 Reasons Why People Who Read A Lot Are More Likely To Be Successful

We’re taught from a very young age that reading as much as possible is the pathway to success and fulfillment. Picture the smartest, hardest-working person you know, and chances are you picture them in a library poring over a variety of texts for hours on end. While simply being an avid reader does not ensure success, successful people are assuredly avid readers. And all of them have the following traits in common.

1. They have increased focus

Successful people are able to focus on one task for an elongated period of time. Anyone who’s read Atlas Shrugged can tell you reading isn’t a quick process. It’s also not a singular process. Readers take breaks, naturally, but the most avid reader simply cannot put a book down for longer than a day after they’ve dove into it. Successful people feel the same way about any task they set out to do.

2. They set goals

Along with focus, readers set goals for themselves whenever they sit down with a good book. Whether setting out to read a specific amount of pages before moving on to another activity, or deciding to read until a certain concept is solidified in their mind, readers actively try to accomplish something whenever they open a text. Successful people set goals for just about every moment of their life, and continue working toward the goal until they surpass it.

3.They spend time wisely

They might only have 20 minutes before they have to be somewhere, but instead of seeing “only 20 minutes” as not enough time to get anything done, they see it as 20 minutes that can be spent reading. Successful people view their time as incredibly valuable, and seize every opportunity they have to learn something new, or accomplish a goal. Readers realize that 5 wasted minutes every day over the course of a year is more than an entire 24 hours wasted that could have been spent reading.

4. They have perspective

Successful people are able to see all angles of an issue, because they have read a variety of literature from various perspectives. Two of Bill Clinton’s favorite novels are Ralph Ellison’s The Invisible Man and Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. The insight gained from reading these novels undoubtedly shaped his perspective in dealing with race relations as a politician. Being an avid reader allows you to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, if only for a moment; but once that moment’s over, you remember the experience for the rest of your life.

5. They are reflective

In addition to gaining perspective, readers are reflective about what they have read. While gaining perspective allows a person to see from the other side of the fence, being reflective allows them the opportunity to understand how they can be productive with their new-found perspective. Successful people see reading not as the simple act of staring at words on a page. They understand the profound effect that consuming a text can have on the mind, and how books can change a person’s life.

6. They have incredible writing and speaking skills

It’s no surprise that the greatest orators in human history have all been enthusiastic about reading. Successful people draw inspiration from their role models, and utilize this inspiration to further their cause. From Demosthenes, to Lincoln, to Nelson Mandela, people who remain cemented in history became such passionate and well-spoken lecturers by studying the great minds before them.

7. They have increased memory

Readers understand just how powerful the brain really is. It can hold almost an unlimited capacity of information. The more you read and learn, the easier it becomes to retain information. Successful people don’t prescribe to Homer Simpson’s belief that learning something new pushes something old out. They simply continue to learn, and commit an incredible expanse of knowledge to memory, sometimes without even realising it.

8. They stay fresh

Great readers also see the brain as a muscle that needs to be worked. Just like going to the gym every day keeps your arms and legs in shape, reading keeps your mind sharp and able to easily retain knowledge. Successful people exercise their mind on a daily basis through reading and other methods such as crossword puzzles and brain teasers. Successful people habitually create challenges to overcome, which in turn improves their minds’ capability to solve increasingly larger problems every day.

9. They are educated and informed

Successful people rise to the top because they have spent their time on earth learning. When they pick up a book, they don’t do so just to finish it, but to take something away from it. Reading textbooks was never just a school assignment to be completed, but was a chance to expand their knowledge even further. Even while reading fictional novels, successful people take with them life lessons that they carry with them forever.

10. They read to relax

Even the most successful people need to tune out the world every once in a while. But this doesn’t mean they turn their minds off completely. There is nothing wrong with reading a “trashy magazine” or graphic novel to unwind. Reading just about anything is more beneficial than watching television or wasting a Friday night at a bar. Again, successful people value every minute of their time, and even in their most idle moments they still strive to improve. And there’s no better way to chill out while keeping yourself fresh than with a good book.

Featured photo credit: Girl with books via shutterstock.com

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Always remember to see the best in others.

Always remember to see the best in others.

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15 Things You Can Feel Happy With, Though Many People Think You Shouldn’t

People like complicating their lives by believing that they need the most exquisite or expensive things to be happy. Guess what? The best things in life may not be totally free – but they are cheap, personal and simple. What you may term as insignificant may be what contributes to your happiness the most. Here are 15 things that will make you happy regardless of what other people feel about it.

“Happiness in intelligent people is the rarest thing I know.”

― Ernest Hemingway

1. You have solitude

If you can have special moments by yourself and don’t worry about being away from other people, you should be happy. Not everyone can relate with what solitude means, but you can.

2. You own your personal beliefs

You can weave a personal belief passionately and do not have to suppress your own thoughts and feelings because you want acceptance from people.

3. You live with others

Whether you are sharing an apartment with someone, crashing in different hostels across the country with friends, or still living with your parents, you are happy.

4. You can live with your mistakes

We all make mistakes every now and then. Yes, mistakes are sometimes a result of bad decisions – but if you can make a mistake and still be relevant to the progress of the world and those around you, you should be happy.

5. You can complete a job

There is satisfaction in work well done. If you can accomplish tasks whether little or small, it means you are happy and fulfilled.

6. You moved on after a broken heart

When disappointments hit us, we are meant to be shattered and seem incurable. However our ability to bounce back from such disappointment is another cornerstone of our happiness.

7. You enjoy being single

Some need a companion to consolidate their happiness, however that is not you. You are contented about your marital status and the freedom it provides.

8. You can have a good night’s sleep

You should be happy when you don’t have any reason to stay all night worrying or clothed with grief. But you can rest and look forward to a beautiful new day.

9. You are appreciative and comfortable with whom you are

You can look at the mirror and be satisfied with who stares back at you. You are not uncomfortable with your reflections or what life has handed out to you.

10. You can fall in love

Falling in love validates that we can be loved and we can love someone back. When you do not hold back from the feeling of love and can spend moments with a special person, then you should be happy.

11. You can show an act of kindness

You should be happy when you can give your time, energy or money without expecting anything in return. Philanthropy and acts of kindness breeds happiness, and you shouldn’t be concerned with how others feel about it.

12. You are able to define your own kind of success

We all have different definitions of success. When the media tries to haul its images and pictures at us, we are still able to stick to our definition of success and find ourselves not falling short.

13. You have goals and dreams…

You should be happy when you have plans for the future and things you are looking forward to.

14. …and some of your goals and dreams have already come true

Accomplishment can present you with a sense of pride and fulfillment. These elements are essential to making you happy all the time.

15. You can eat what you like

You don’t have to eat what every other person is eating. You can make your choices based on your taste preferences and health issues. Whatever you are eating is a subject that is left to you and you should be happy about it.

Remember, if your standards are set on your own terms then you won’t have any reason to be unhappy.

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Something to note: every day should be a holiday to…

Something to note: every day should be a holiday to celebrate love.

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Close your eyes. Clear your heart. Let it go.

Close your eyes. Clear your heart. Let it go.

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10 Things You’ll Never Find In A Productive Office

To ensure that work is completed, deadlines are met and workflow is steady throughout an office, employees must be productive. There was a time when this meant employees should work at full capacity constantly and that they must prioritise their tasks above all other responsibilities.

Fortunately, this is swiftly becoming an outdated idea. Today, many bosses are encouraging their members of staff to be creative, sociable and happy as well as proactive, accurate and productive. These new work environments that avoid an uninviting, bureaucratic setting or situations where employees feel overwhelmed often result in a significantly more productive atmosphere!

To ensure your office is a constructive and dynamic workplace, check out these 10 things you’d never find in a productive office:

1. They Avoid Progression

As I mentioned above: times are changing. Employees can no longer be viewed from a head office as stock-humans that must dedicate all of their attention to work between the hours of 9am and 5pm.

For productivity to flow, trust to build and overall employee happiness to flourish, you must encourage it. By following these steps you can begin to evolve, progress and improve.

2. Leaders Set Unclear Expectations

When it comes to working with others, be it in an office or everyday life, it’s important to remember that your group is not comprised of psychic super beings. If you are unclear about your expectations your team will have no real idea of what they’re supposed to be achieving.

Be sure to set clear, attainable goals for both the team and the individuals within it. Be accommodating to each individual and make sure you are fully understood by all before sending them on their way.

3. Nobody Plans Ahead

It’s far easier to plan ahead than to regret a project’s flaws in hindsight. Worse still, trying to work out a plan whilst in the middle of a task can completely drain your productive energy and focus.

Make sure you construct a few guidelines and goals before beginning an assignment and you’ll have it done in no time.

4. Delegating Is Discouraged

Have you ever wondered why potential employers always want to know whether you work well in a team? Well one of the reasons could be because they expect you to delegate work to increase productivity. Each individual in an office has different skills that are better suited to different tasks, so it makes sense to assign tasks to those best suited instead of becoming overwhelmed and disheartened.

5. Multitasking Is Encouraged

Whilst delegating is a great idea, multitasking isn’t. Switching and sharing your attention between tasks may mean you get more done, but it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a satisfactory level of quality. Focus all of your attention on one task and your dedication will show though.

6. There Are Interruptions And Distractions

Whilst were on the topic of focus: nothing is more detrimental than being constantly interrupted or distracted. Whilst you’re working, close your email and other tabs to ensure you are 100% disruption free. If it’s an employee or manager that’s causing the interruptions, it may be time to hold an interruption intervention.

7. Breaks Are Few And Far Between

If you’ve ever seen a movie or TV show set in an office then you’ll know those who have breaks around the water cooler are often seen as slackers. Meanwhile, those who skip their breaks are depicted as productivity champions who are more dedicated to their work than their social lives. This could not be more wrong!

Breaks are a fantastic way to allow employees to decompress their brains, relax, get their thought juices flowing and most importantly: enjoy work. Walk around, grab a coffee, go on social media or call someone: these are not time wasters! When you return to your work, close your tabs and put your phone away you’ll feel refreshed and ready for another focused, productive few hours.

8. Games Are Forbidden

Speaking of breaks: what could be more fun than a game of pool or ping-pong? Games areas are becoming more and more popular in work environments, particularly in the tech industry and in start-ups. Allowing games into your office will encourage bonding, develop team dynamics, relieve stress and advance activity.

9. Working From Home Is Not An Option

Another idea that’s becoming more popular is telecommuting. Many employers believe working from home will lead to a decline in productivity, when really many employees will work harder in order to disprove these misconceptions and maintain the privilege.

Working from home has never been easier, with new video conferencing apps, chat tools and task sites being developed almost every day.

10. No Flexible Work Times

For decades now, a 9 to 5 day has been the usual and for most this just isn’t beneficial. Modern life and workloads can be unpredictable, meaning some people may need to come in earlier or work later into the day. To accommodate this, try trusting your employees with their working hours. For example, if somebody stays late on an evening, why not allow them to come in later the next morning.

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Do not confuse my bad days as a sign of…

Do not confuse my bad days as a sign of weakness. Those are actually the days I am fighting my hardest.

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“Here we are, trapped in the amber of the moment….

“Here we are, trapped in the amber of the moment. There is no why.” – Kurt Vonnegut

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If you stay, stay forever. If you go, do it…

If you stay, stay forever. If you go, do it today. If you change, change for the better. And if you talk, make sure you mean what you say.

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If the plan doesn’t work, change the plan but never…

If the plan doesn’t work, change the plan but never the goal.

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Raise your words not your voice. It is rain that…

Raise your words not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers not thunder. – Rumi

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7 Carpet Cleaning Hacks You Need for Spring Cleaning

Spring is the quintessential time to spruce up your house. This means you’ll probably be knee-deep in scrubbers, scouring pads, brooms and sponges soon. While you’re making your home feel more like a glistening castle, don’t forget that your carpets took a beating this winter along with the rest of the house. Most carpet cleaning issues – stains, shagginess, padded-down spots – can be DIY projects using these clever and non-toxic carpet cleaning hacks.

#1: Removing Stains with an Iron

Don’t put that iron away after you starch the collars on the laundered button-down shirts that will go in your newly-organized closet. It can actually be carefully used to remove some stains.

First, vacuum the carpets so there aren’t any particles left on it. Then, dampen any spots or stains with a towel concentrated with a solution made of one part vinegar and three parts water (tap water is fine.)

Put the moist towel over the stain and use the iron to heat the towel. As you move the iron over the towel, the stain should start to lift into the towel. Stop ironing when the stain is all – or as much as possible – removed.

#2: Baking Soda and Essential Oil Carpet Freshener

Want your carpets to smell so fresh that you’ll feel like you’re walking in a field of daisies every time you step foot in your living room or bedroom? Make your own deodorizer by adding about 10-20 drops of any essential oil (I prefer lavender or wild orange) with about a 16-ounce box of baking soda. Mix it up well so the oils are completely absorbed and store in a glass container. When you want to use it, simply shake some of the perfumed baking soda on your carpet, wait 5 minutes and then vacuum it.

#3: Homemade Deep Clean Carpet Cleaner

Deep cleaning your carpets will help get rid of allergens and dust mites. Most people think you have to use the liquid chemical cleaner with your carpet-cleaning extractor, but you can actually make your own deep green cleaner. Mix the following ingredients together to make a non-toxic deep cleaner for your machine: ¾ cup of Hydrogen Peroxide, ¼ cup white vinegar, 2 tablespoons dish soap, 5 drops of essential oils, 2 tablespoons of fabric softener and one gallon of hot (not boiling) water. Use this in your rug cleaning machine instead of expensive, chemical-filled store brand options.

#4: Properly Cleaning a Shag Carpet

Shag carpeting has come back into style with a vengeance, so if you have a shag carpet in your home, you’ll need to know how to clean it. Most vacuums have too much suction and can cause the shag to go frizzy or get caught in the machinery. If you notice that your carpet is “shedding” regularly, de-shag it by using the hose attachment of your vacuum. Yes, this will take longer, but will allow you to get deep into the fibers of the rug without hurting the strength or look of the shag.

#5: Carpet Fluffing Technique I

Does your carpet look like it’s been walked on my an army? Fluff it up by spraying any hardened, stained areas with a carpet stain remover of equal parts vinegar and water. Allow the agent to work, and then blot up the stain. At this point, run a spoon along the carpeting (hold the spoon on its side) to “fluff up” the fibers and encourage them to stand straight again.

#6: Carpet Fluffing Technique II

Tired of dented-in spots where your furniture put pressure on the carpet? Allow an ice cube to melt into the dents. After the water has completely dissolved, take a soft towel and blot up the excess moisture. Do not press hard; this will dent the carpet again. Lay the moist towel on top of the dented area and run an iron (on cotton setting) back and forth across the towel. When the fibers feel almost dry, stop ironing the spot. Allow the carpet to air dry, then use your hands to fluff up the spot.

#7: Cleaning Different Types of Carpet

Carpets differ in a number of ways. There are low loop carpets (think Berber) and more plush/shaggy carpets. These can come with or without stain protection, and may be made of anything from 100 percent wool to synthetic fibers.

Let’s start with low-pile, looped carpets. While they are great for high-traffic areas, they may not be as apt to give up stains as plush carpets. You have to have patience when cleaning low-pile/looped carpeting; use a lot of elbow grease.

With a little bit of patience, you can have the carpet you love back looking and smelling wonderful again. Plus, if you are saving money for new carpeting, this helps you extend the life of your current flooring a little longer. That means more dollars in your purse AND a beautiful, spring-clean home.

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15 Signs You’re More Mature Than You Think

There is a time in each person’s life where they grow up. Maturity does not come with age, it comes with experiences. Here are some indicators to show you that you are a lot more mature than you think.

1. You’ve found that the drama in your life is only on television.

Let’s face the facts here. There are a lot of toxic, dramatic and negative people in the world. You have finally realized that you don’t have time for that and have cut them out of your life. The only drama that is in your life now is on TV while you are doing laundry.

2. You’re relatively okay with change.

You finally get the fact that not everything is set in stone and are okay with it. Unless it’s your wedding, usually minor changes here and there do not bother you like they used to. You no longer go into a downward spiral of doom if your life takes another direction because more than likely, it was your choice.

We all have changed our minds on who we want to be, what we want to do, what we want to look like and where we want to live. Someone once said “life is not about finding yourself, it is about creating yourself.” There is no set road map to your life and you have gotten over that.

3. You’ve realised that happily ever is hard work.

By now, you have probably realized that happily ever after is not the end of the story. It is the beginning and to keep it a happy relationship is hard work. You have accepted it as something more than singing a couple songs and trying on a glass slipper to find the love of your life.

You have accepted that there are people out there that are fake, mean, dishonest and smelly. More importantly, with the end of each relationship, you are no longer completely hopeless. You take it as a stepping stone and a lesson in what doesn’t work for you.

4. You’ve finally come to terms that the world does not revolve around you.

You have finally realized that the world is not under your control. Each and every individual on this earth has a life of their own to lead. More than likely, they cannot just drop whatever they are doing to assist you, just like you can’t do it for anyone else.

Sure there are family members and best friends but you are more considerate when asking for favors these days.

5. Your parents don’t make you say sorry. You say it on your own and mean it.

At this point in life, you know that you have been wrong at least six million times. Okay, maybe not that much. When you are, you know when to apologize and admit that you are wrong. You work it out with the person you have hurt and move forward. If you are like me, apologizing is a huge step, so be proud.

6. You focus on the positive in life, by choice.

When something bad happens to you in life, you usually look on the bright side. You have come to accept that there is no use wallowing in your own misery because it does not fix anything. You have learned to take each awful thing that happens as an opportunity to learn.

7. You’ve noticed that family has become more important than friends.

Before, your friends were the most important thing in life. Family came in second and it was a chore hanging out with them. Now, you have a close circle of friends and many acquaintances, but you prefer to hang out with your mom on the weekend. You actually prefer the company of your family more than your friends at times.

8. You have applied a filter to most of your thoughts before they escape your mouth.

You realized that you need to filter your thoughts in most social gatherings. In fact, you should get a trophy for how many thoughts you kept in your head.

9. You’re okay with being alone.

Being alone is therapeutic for you. It does not mean you are an outcast or that you hate people. It simply means that you don’t need another person to keep yourself occupied or happy.

10. You have caught yourself giving out your mom’s advice.

We all are guilty of it: rolling our eyes during a lecture from mom. Now, you find yourself giving your friend the very same lecture over an afternoon cup of coffee. You hate to admit it, but what she said is true and now you have finally accepted it.

11. Your career matters to you, even if it’s temporary.

You are responsible and take your job seriously. It doesn’t matter if its something you worked your whole life for or something to pay your way through classes, you make sure you do a good job. Each and every boss is an important voice on your resume when it comes to moving forward on your career path, so you take the time to do things right and efficiently.

12. You expect the best in life because you’ve worked so hard to get that outcome.

Everything you expect should leave you a 100% satisfied because you put 110% effort. You have learned the life lesson that nothing is handed to you, you need to work hard for what you want.

13. You set aside time for yourself to do absolutely nothing.

You realize that you cannot completely work yourself to death, because what is a life you’ve worked so hard for if you cannot enjoy it? You have set aside time to enjoy some of a chapter in a book, to nap or to catch up on your favorite show. It isn’t being lazy, it is knowing when you need time to reset and relax.

14. You don’t find the need to get drunk on the weekends to have fun.

Your weekends don’t have to be filled with drunken adventures, a room full of sweaty dancing people or songs that are all about that bass. You are happy with a glass of wine and some good friends or a couple beers in a laid back pub. It doesn’t matter if you’re “turning down” for “what” or for Netflix, you can still have fun.

15. Materialistic things make you smile, but they do not define what happiness means.

Even though the occasion splurge makes you smile, its the little things in life that make you truly happy. You realize that the source of happiness is the little moments shared with the ones you love.

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15 Things Genuine People Don’t Do

No one likes to be around a fake. We like our friends to be who they are without acting and presenting a false persona, yet it is difficult to find original people in an age where social media rules. Everyone seems to be creating their best snapshots and best descriptions on Facebook and online dating websites. How can we tell if you are genuine? Here are 15 things genuine people don’t do.

1. They don’t boast about their achievements

They are quite aware of their abilities and strengths, and are not boastful about them. They focus on being humble and sincere rather than impressing with their accolades.

2. They don’t need a lot of possessions to be happy

Genuine people don’t need to be validated based on what they own; they are comfortable with who they are. They know that they don’t need a lot of external things to be happy. Since happiness can be found from within, their work, and loved ones, they find happiness in the simple things life has to offer them.

3. They don’t display inconsistency

Since they are very much in touch with who they are, they are predictable. You always know what they will stand for or what their response will be if their character is being tested.

4. They don’t hold back from offering praise

They’ll never avoid giving compliments to those who deserve it. They don’t need to fake their praise, but will offer it from their hearts to those deserving of such recognition.

5. They don’t practice something they don’t preach

Any given advice is on a subject is something they would do if they were in the same situation. They don’t need to feel better than anyone else. If they can’t do something, they don’t suggest it.

6. They don’t rely on talk over actions

They understand that talk is cheap, so they are willing to let their actions do the talking. Evidence of doing trumps empty boasting.

7. They don’t pretend to understand what they do not know

Genuine people understand that they have so much to learn. If they don’t know something, instead of lying and claiming understanding, they prefer to learn it by listening and absorbing.

8. They don’t belittle others

They lead by example and have no superiority complex. Instead of belittling others they would rather try to make them better.

9. They don’t follow the pack

Rather than conforming, they carve their own paths. It is better to be original and follow their true passion rather than be a victim of the conventional approach or thoughts.

10. They don’t fake who they are

If they have made a mistake they would openly admit to it. They are not fake but transparent about their standards, principles and who they are. Rather than make you ask if they are hiding something, they are up front with you about their standards.

11. They don’t take themselves too seriously

They know that they are human and don’t need to build defensive walls of perfection around themselves to hide or minimize their weaknesses. They are able to admit to their failures and accept constructive criticism without allowing letting it damage their self-esteem.

12. They don’t seek attention

Rather than use their successes or accomplishments as a channel to seek attention, they are already filled with self-awareness and self confidence. They don’t have a hole to be filled from constant validation of their ego.

13. They don’t suppress their opinions, beliefs and thoughts

They are always glad to tell the world what they know. They have taken the time to ponder their opinions on life and carefully considered the knowledge that has taken them to where they are, so they are able to share their “authentic self” to the world.

14. They aren’t easily fooled by flatterers and liars

While others can be easily fooled, they are not. They know when others are full of it. Rather than looking at issues on the surface, they focus on reality and know when things don’t add up.

15. They don’t speak more than they listen

Genuine people don’t use bragging as a mask to hide their insecurity. They already have an opinion, yet they want to know what you think. Rather than speaking more than they listen, they ask open ended questions so as to let others share their thoughts.

Featured photo credit: Portrait of cheerful beautiful fashionable woman in a hat and coat via shutterstock.com

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50 New Year Traditions From Around the World

If you thought that your country’s New Year’s celebrations were the norm, just wait until you check out the following infographic!

Some of these traditions are crazier than others, but in a good way. You might even find that you’ll want to incorporate some of these ideas in your 2016 New Year’s celebrations (the one about wearing red underwear in Italy definitely sounds like a fun idea to me)!

Did any of these New Year’s traditions surprise you? Do they make you want to visit that country, and experience these unique celebrations first hand? Comment below!

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10 Firefox Add-ons You Should Not Miss

Is Firefox your preferred browser? If you use Firefox, these add-ons are some of the best to consider downloading to help make your browser more useful and efficient – alongside a few add-ons that can even help you to be more efficient, too.

Here are 10 of the best Firefox add-ons currently available to help make your browsing experience even better.

1. Mind The Time

Do you feel like you spend too much time on Twitter and Facebook? If you do, Mind The Time is the perfect Firefox add-on to help you be more productive when you’re online. Mind The Time tells you how much time you spend on each site during the day, as well as the total length of time you spent on the web that day.

2. Resurrect Pages

If you hate having to deal with dead pages and broken links, try downloading Resurrect Pages. This handy Firefox add-on does exactly what it says on the tin- it will resurrect pages for you. A useful, time-saving add on.

3. Tile View

Tile View allows you to split your Firebox window into multiple browsers in a tile format, so you can view all of your tabs side by side. The best part of this app is that you can save any layouts you make to come back to later! Saving a personalized layout of your most visited sites will make your browsing experience easier and more efficient.

4. Idderall

Another Firebox add-on to stop you procrastinating online, Idderall takes it one step further than Mind The Time; it allows you to block distracting websites while you work. This add-on is extra useful because you can choose the times that the websites are blocked – ideal for anyone who uses their laptop or computer for work.

5. Reminder Fox

Never forget anything again with Reminder Fox, a Firefox add-on that displays your reminders and a to-do list. Use alerts and lists to remind you of important dates, and add an online calendar you can use whenever Firefox is open.

6. OmniSidebar

Use OmniSidebar to personalize your sidebar and make it more efficient. This add-on allows you to bring your bookmarks into view, make your toolbar smaller, or move your sidebar to the side of your screen. The best part of this add-on is you can enhance your sidebar, and make it more useful to you personally.

7. Screengrab

Screengrab allows you to save full webpages as images, rather than just the part shown on your screen. This Firefox add-on also allows you to take pictures of particular sections or frames, which you can then save as a file or upload to the internet. Handy!

8. Keycon Fig

Keycon Fig is a super useful add-on that allows you to scroll through Firefox quickly and efficiently using keyboard shortcuts. You can scroll backwards and forwards through your internet history, scroll through the tabs you have open, and even zoon in and out.

9. The Fox, Only Better

If Firefox is your preferred browser, The Fox Only Better is a great add-on for you. The Fox Only Better simply improves your browers, making it faster and more streamlined. There are tons of benefits to this add-on, from giving you extra screen room to allowing you to customise your Firefox.

10. Classic Theme Restorer

Do you miss the old Firefox layout? If so, don’t worry – you can easily go back to it with the Classic Theme Restorer. With the Classic Theme Restorer you can go back to the old squared tabs, menu, add-on bar, alongside many more classic features you love and remember.

Do you know any other useful Firefox add-ons? Let us know your ideas in the comment section below!

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