All of your arguments boil down to three questions. If all your answers are no to all three questions , there will most likely be a problem.
Conflict is difficult to resolve if viewed in as Who wins or Lose.
Most of the time, it involves both logical and illogical feelings. That thing you’re arguing about, whether at home or at work, is about what’s said and what’s not said. It is about what is visible and what is hidden.
The problem is that most of us focus on the surface and ignore what’s beneath. That is a mistake. So how can you move to resolving emotionally entangled conflict?
Oprah Winfrey is someone I admire because she is no stranger to conflict, and she is in a good position to comment on it given her background as an interviewer. She has addressed complex issues such as suicide, infidelity, mental health, sexual abuse, and others, all of which involve deep-seated conflict.
She’s interviewed nearly 30,000 people via her shows,” she says, ” they all had one thing in common.”
What exactly was it? What did everyone have in common, whether a firefighter or a PhD, a dental hygienist or a software engineer?
“They all wanted validation,” Oprah says.
She wasn’t referring to ego-stroking compliments like “You’re such an amazing wife” or “I can’t believe what an incredible boss you are.”
No, she was referring to something more fundamental, and crucial, when it comes to connecting through conflict: validating what someone is saying and validating that it is important to you.
When Oprah spoke at the Stanford Graduate School of Business about career, life, and leadership, she mentioned this. She specifically stated that all of your arguments boil down to three questions, and only three questions:
Did you hear what I said? Did you notice me? Did what I said make any sense to you or matter?
In other words, whether your partner is upset because you arrived home late yet again, or your employee is trying to convince you that they need another member on their team, what they really want is to be seen. Being heard.
They want to know if you’re really listening to them and care about what they’re trying to tell you.
This does not imply that you must grovel or strikeout, or that you must immediately change the topic or become accusational (for example, by bringing up a previous situation or disagreement).
It does, however, imply that you should begin by not defending yourself or addressing the “content” of the argument.
If you truly want to calm the person down and resolve the conflict quickly, the best thing to do first is to make them feel understood—and that what they’re saying matters to them.
“You are correct; I have been working late a lot. I know it’s inconvenient not to have me home for dinner. I want you to know how much it means to me.”
“I understand. On the team, you’ve been juggling a lot lately: managing schedules, responding to clients, and liaising between the team and the engineering department. I see and appreciate everything you’ve done.”
According to Oprah (and every other psychologist ever), when someone feels that you see and care about them, its a game changer. The nervous system of the individual relaxes. Their tone becomes softer. The problem appears to become more manageable.
You can most likely relate. If you dig deep enough, almost always, when you have a problem with someone, it’s because you didn’t feel seen or heard.
It’s not just that your previous partner use to ignore; you felt overlooked, unimportant, frustratingly angry or powerless.
When you feel like the other person is seeing you and listening to you (deeply listening, not just saying they’re listening) when you share your distress, you begin to feel different.
You no longer feel alone; you feel as if they’re on your side.
You are feeling supported.
Try it with your children, your husband, your wife, your boss, and your friends, as Oprah suggests. Verify them.
I notice you. I understand. And what you say is important to me.
Is now the right time to invest in a Health, Hair & Beauty Franchises?
We all like to look & feel good, which is why regardless of the economic climate, health & beauty franchises for sale, and the beauty industry generally tends to be very stable.
This trend is set to rise with beauty products representing around 6% of all retail sales in the UK, sectors such as cosmetics. Makeup continues to grow.
Another growth area is the use of vitamins or supplements, including many people that like to use protein powders or other protein supplements to enhance their look & gym performance.
With the industry trend of increased health & beauty, spending likely to continue a business within the sector could be highly lucrative.
Facts and statistics around the beauty industry:
The UK boasts £28.4 bn beauty product and services industry, a report reveals. The UK’s beauty industry contributed a total of £28.4 billion in 2018 to the nation’s economy. Resulting in a valuation of the UK’s consumption of beauty products and services in 2018 at £27.2 billion.
The industry itself directly employed 370,200 people. With a further 220,300 jobs being supported through its supply chain and wage-related consumer spending contributions.
The UK’s beauty industry contributed a total of £28.4 billion in 2018 to the nation’s economy. Resulting in a valuation of the UK’s consumption of beauty products and services in 2018 at £27.2 billion.
By 2019, this market was worth over 1.74 billion British pounds. On the retail side of the spectrum. Over the past decade, UK retail stores specializing in cosmetics and personal care increased their turnover from selling such products. Going from 2.7 billion in 2008 to over 5.3 billion British pounds in 2018.
Best Types Of Beauty Businesses For Sale To Invest In
What types of beauty businesses are the best to buy? As an investor, you have many decisions to make when choosing which type of beauty business for sale to invest in, but one of the most important factors is your own personal preferences and career goals. If you’re looking to buy into the beauty industry, it’s important to choose the right business model that will give you the potential to make money while still allowing you to enjoy your time as an entrepreneur.
Going it Alone or Franchising
If your servicing a very exclusive sector and you just want a small exclusive business with you having sole responsibility then going it alone might be more appealing to you. But it is worth taking a course in small business management and marketing, it will help you enormously.
If you decide to go the franchise route, when you buy a franchise, you buy a system – an entire method of doing business. Franchises have an established system in place that you must follow to distribute the franchisor’s products or services using the franchisor’s trade or service marks. Having a proven system already in place eliminates the guesswork and errors a common business owner would normally face.
With the help of a franchise, you can:
A. Duplicate a real, genuine business that allows you to help others.
B. Set up a business that consistently provides an impressive return on investment.
C. Put together a business that helps you assist real people with genuine needs.
D. Develop a meaningful career path for yourself that has rewards for years to come.
E. Have a full supportive management team around you
F. Benefit from global branding and marketing
G. Benefit from established supply line, retail etc and much more
1) Hair Salon Businesses For Sale
The salon business is a booming market right now. If you are looking for one of the most lucrative beauty businesses for sale, it’s hard to top hair salons for sale. You can find everything from salons in up-and-coming neighborhoods to high-end salons downtown. An established salon with a proven clientele will always be in demand and is an asset worth taking into consideration when deciding what type of beauty business for sale might be best for you.
2) Hairdresser Businesses For Sale
Most hairdressers for sale are small businesses and can be found everywhere. The market for hairdressers is relatively steady, particularly if you’re looking at specific demographics and types of clients. Hair salons often specialise in a certain type of clientele or offer services that may not be as popular with others. Some salons specialise in hair colouring and require less investment than buying a full-service salon. Before you buy a hair business opportunity, it’s important to know what your options are; looking for specialist services such as hair extensions, hairloss treatments, wig making etc., are niche sectors that could yeild more from your investment than a traditional hair salon. When buying hairdressing businesses for sale, research those that might best fit your lifestyle and goals and attract high paying customers.
A larger hair salon franchise may be a good choice if you want to join an established team with experience, retail sales, clientele and branding.
3) Nail Salon Businesses For Sale
If you’re interested in buying a nail salon business for sale, it’s important to remember that different types of nail salons for sale offer different services. While some focus on manicures and pedicures, others might be focused on offering more specialised treatments like nal extensions, nail art or vn pedicures. If you want to work with private clients, you can find nail salon business opportunities that operate out of homes. A larger nail salon franchise may be a good choice if you want to join an established team with experience and plenty of clientele already built up.
4) Barber Businesses For Sale
Barbering is a business that goes well beyond cutting hair. The health and wellness of your clients are just as important as their looks. Barbering services can include relaxation and pampering, a haircut and style, hot towel shave or facial wax, tanning.. not to mention retail sales opportunities. If you’re considering buying a barbers for sale or other beauty business for sale, here are some considerations to make before signing on the dotted line: What licenses do I need? Can I afford to pay for any renovations required for compliance? Is there parking for my potential clientele? How does social media work into my marketing strategy? Are there potential leads out there that could convert into customers without too much extra effort from me?
5) Beauty Salon Businesses For Sale
Buying a beauty salon business from a current owner is also an option. Before you buy, be sure to ask as many questions as possible so that you can make a fully informed decision. The best way to do that is by talking with other salon owners in your area who have purchased beauty salons and asking them what they did right—and wrong—as well as if their initial expectations for return on investment matched reality. If you decide buying a beauty salon for sale is for you, make sure to do thorough research before investing in any salon business opportunity.
Salon Awards winner 2021
Dream Big Have Faith. Lean In
My dream began in 2000, to set up a #hairextensions and Hairloss Specialist Salon Franchise model.
5 years later, winning several awards I am excited to report that we have just been accredited by the Quality #franchise Association and have gone live in the national and international Franchise Directories. It has been a challenging journey and just like when you pass your driving test, the real driving begins when your in the car alone.
I am so looking forward to seeing replica of the salon and brand throughout the UK and Europe and assisting #investors in my initiative become viable #businesses within their own right. This is the link in the UK directory
Don’t let your dreams be crippled by doubt and fears. lean in!
Looking for Entrepreneurs to set up their own Hair Extensions & Hairloss business. Checkout our Franchise Opportunity which includes Business Plan, Raising Finance, Training and launching your businness with full support. Click to have a chat http://bit.ly/3jYM20b
I hope you’re feeling thrilled about your future prospects for 2019 and make amazing things happen.
Like you some of us found 2018 rather challenging, but it has helped to shape us into who we will be over 2019. Here is a list of 5 things to put in place this month to help you focus and become more disciplined. A little tip, use your mobile phone diary to set up reminders.
Article by Diane Shawe
DEFINE YOUR WORD
Think about the year ahead and ask yourself what one word would best represent your dreams and direction for 2019. This is a powerful practice because no matter how busy or scattered we may get at various points in our 365 day journey, we’ll always have our word to hold onto and guide us through.
Here are some examples of words to consider (you can also think of them as themes for the year):
FOCUS, REST, COURAGE,
ABUNDANCE, MY VALUES,
SIMPLIFY, ELEVATE, ORGANISED,
SPIRITUALITY, LEGACY,
CHARITY, IMPLEMENT. PHEONIX
Take some time and really reflect on which word holds the most meaning to you in the pursuit of your personal goals. Then take a piece of paper, write your word on it and hang it where you can see it every day. You’ll find that more and more, your thoughts, decisions, and actions in the new year will flow in harmony with your word.
CREATE YOUR READING LIST
As entrepreneurs, we know that reading great books for our personal and business development is essential if we really want to take things to a new level each year. However, if you’re like most entrepreneurs, you probably have a mountain of books that you are still intending to read and you know you have to be more selective about exactly which books you’re going to focus on (and implement!) in the year ahead.
So in 2019, instead of getting overwhelmed by it all, get intentional and put together a reading plan.
Here are some questions to help you create your list:
Which particular books will help me the most right now?
What area of my business am I resisting due to lack of knowledge?
Are there any books that I should read again and implement better this time?
FOCUS ON ONE THING
With the beginning of a new year, it’s exciting to launch into everything we want to do all at once to improve our lives and our businesses, but that’s a recipe for getting quite overwhelmed and discouraged before too long.
There is so much value in focusing on one thing at a time. It’s better to work on 12 habits or goals one at a time, month by month, and successfully achieve them all in a year, than it is to work on everything all at once and only be able to to finish 2 or 3 due to lack of focus.
MOVE PAST AN OLD FEAR
One of the things we love most about a new year is the feeling of a fresh start that it brings. Use the momentum of starting fresh to face a fear and do something you were afraid to do in 2018.
SET A 90 DAY MONEY GOAL
It’s so important to set your goals around money and map out your plans for how you’re going to achieve them. Money loves clarity and the more clear you are about how much you want your business to grow and how you’re going to make it happen, the more you can expect to see results!
First, identify how much money you want to make in your business over the next 90 days. Working from the framework of a 90 day goal is particularly effective because it’s not too long or too short when it comes to achieving something amazing, so don’t be afraid to dream a little bit out of your comfort zone.
Next, map out what that looks like in terms of clients and sales. How many clients would you need in order to hit that goal? How many sales per month, per week, per day? By honing in on these numbers, you’ll be able to set your daily, weekly, and monthly goals with clarity and ease. Best of all, you’ll be able to focus on taking action and making it happen. 🙂
IQ scores are falling and have been for decades, new study finds
Guest Blogger: Rory Smith, CNN
IQ scores have been steadily falling for the past few decades, and environmental factors are to blame, a new study says.
The research suggests that genes aren’t what’s driving the decline in IQ scores, according to the study, published Monday.
Norwegian researchers analysed the IQ scores of Norwegian men born between 1962 and 1
991 and found that scores increased by almost 3 percentage points each decade for those born between 1962 to 1975 — but then saw a steady decline among those born after 1975.
Similar studies in Denmark, Britain, France, the Netherlands, Finland and Estonia have demonstrated a similar downward trend in IQ scores, said Ole Rogeberg, a senior research fellow at the Ragnar Frisch Center for Economic Research in Norway and co-author of the new study.
“The causes in IQ increases over time and now the decline is due to environmental factors,” said Rogeburg, who believes the change is not due to genetics.
“It’s not that dumb people are having more kids than smart people, to put it crudely. It’s something to do with the environment, because we’re seeing the same differences within families,” he said.
These environmental factors could include changes in the education system and media environment, nutrition, reading less and being online more, Rogeberg said.
The earlier rise in IQ scores follows the “Flynn effect,” a term for the long-term increase in intelligence levels that occurred during the 21st century, arguably the result of better access to education, according to Stuart Ritchie, a postdoctoral fellow in cognitive ageing at the University of Edinburgh whose research explores IQ scores and intelligence and who was not involved in the new study.
Researchers have long preferred to use genes to explain variations in intelligence over environmental factors. However, the new study turns this thinking on its head.
Intelligence is heritable, and for a long time, researchers assumed that people with high IQ scores would have kids who also scored above average. Moreover, it was thought that people with lower scores would have more kids than people with high IQ scores, which would contribute to a decline in IQ scores over time and a “dumbing down” of the general population, according to Rogeberg.
Anyone who has seen the film “Idiocracy” might already be familiar with these ideas. In the scientific community, the idea of unintelligent parents having more kids and dumbing-down the population is known as the dysgenic fertility theory, according to Ritchie.
The study looked at the IQ scores of brothers who were born in different years. Researchers found that, instead of being similar as suggested by a genetic explanation, IQ scores often differed significantly between the siblings.
“The main exciting finding isn’t that there was a decline in IQ,” Ritchie said. “The interesting thing about this paper is that they were able to show a difference in IQ scores within the same families.”
The study not only showed IQ variance between children the same parents, but because the authors had the IQ scores of various parents, it demonstrated that parents with higher IQs tended to have more kids, ruling out the dysgenic fertility theory as a driver of falling IQ scores and highlighting the role of environmental factors instead.
What specific environmental factors cause changes in intelligence remains relatively unexplored.
Access to education is currently the most conclusive factor explaining disparities in intelligence, according to Ritchie. In a separate study that has not been released, he and his colleagues looked at existing research in an effort to demonstrate that staying in school longer directly equates to higher IQ scores.
But more research is needed to better understand other environmental factors thought to be linked to intelligence. Robin Morris, a professor of psychology at Kings College in London who was not involved in Ritchie’s research, suggests that traditional measures of intelligence, such as the IQ test, might be outmoded in today’s fast-paced world of constant technological change.
Morris states that “we need to recognise that as time changes and people are exposed to different intellectual experiences, such as changes in the use of technology, for example social media, the way intelligence is expressed also changes. Educational methods need to adapt to such changes,” Morris said.
Diane Shawe author of ‘Is Adult Education Broken” goes on to state in her publication that “No sensible decision can be made any longer without taking into account not only the world as it is but the world as it will be.”
In her thought provoking book she explains that we are living in a new economy—powered by technology, fueled by information, and driven by knowledge which increasingly is increasingly becoming automated. We are entering the new century with opportunity on our side with huge problems that require new thinking.
How can we make the new economic age enhance, rather than diminish, our quality of learning?
How can we make this amazing innovation advance the prospects of all people especially those with experience and not just for the youth?
Fundamentally, we need to change what people learn, how people learn, when people learn, and even why people learn.
Inside her publication she explores
: Failure to find a fomular to develop teachers convergent and divergent facilitatingskills
: failure to consider cultural relevance
: failure to develop enterprising and entrepreneurial skills
: failure to prepare students about taking personal responsibility
There is a massive amount of misunderstanding about what the law of attraction is, I have heard the phrase very often “You become what you think about” and as such, many people find themselves becoming disillusioned with the whole thing quite quickly.
Having learned more about what the law of attraction really is allowed me to create changes in my life I never would have thought possible.
And that is why I am so passionate about this particular blog, and clearing up the confusion. It was the key to unlocking all sorts of awesomeness for me, and I want to help others do the same. And on that note, I want to discuss a few issues that have many lamenting that the law of attraction is a load of crap
Again, the law of attraction isn’t just about thinking something and getting it; just wanting something is not enough to bring it to you. You have to be a match to it, and by this I mean, your predominant thoughts, feelings and beliefs must be in harmony with your desire.
There is one concept I had to really get my head around and that was ‘The universe cannot say no’ just stick with me here… If you say out aloud verbally “I want a million pounds” what thought and real feelings came to you inside?
Well that’s the thought and feelings the universe responds too. Its no good repeating or writing something down if your inner self is in doubt because that doubt is the real instructions you are sending to the universe.
You must feel now as if you already have what you wanted — the law of attraction can’t defy your vibration. You can’t trick the Universe. The process of attraction is a neutral, mechanical process, and delivers output (experience) based on the input (your vibration). It is not judging, deciding or doing anything humans do. It can’t deliver the goods because you are a nice person, you really want something or that you are trying really hard to get it.
The whole emphasis on “being positive” can lead people astray and makes them think they are supposed to just stuff down their negative feelings and beliefs. But that isn’t what you should be doing. You have to admit your negative feelings and let yourself feel them so you can begin the process of transforming them. You have to be honest about your limiting beliefs, and then work on releasing them.
I felt inspired go into research The Laws Of The Universe because it is often misunderstood even by me and you cannot develop blind faith if you dont understand all the key components.
I don’t often quote the bible but in Job 38:33, we read:
“Knowest thou the ordinances of heaven? canst thou set the dominion thereof in the earth?”
The “ordinances of heaven and earth” (Jeremiah 33:25) or what people call “The Laws Of The Universe” or “The Laws of Nature” are imminent, infallible laws that govern our universe, the universe that God created. Every plant, rock, animal, matter, and person is ruled by those laws.
Universal Law #1 ~ The Law of Divine Oneness
Everything is connected to everything and everyone is connected to everyone. We are all brothers and sisters with a divine nature, and every thought, belief, word, and action of one affects every being that was, is, or will be (directly and/or indirectly). I love this law because there is divinity within each of us, and we are of infinite worth to our Heavenly Father, so we must recognise that and have faith.
Universal Law #2 ~ The Law of Vibration
God created the universe so that it vibrates, moves, and travels in circular patterns or motions; nothing rests, and all things are made of energy. Our feelings, emotions, visions, desires, thoughts, dreams, words, and will, attract and resonate with energies with similar frequency.
People often speak of karma only when they want someone punished, but living and feeling that thought in the instance is what the universe delivers so for example, when you bless adversity, and act in gratitude as if you already have and are what you desire, then it will come to you, because you are raising your vibrational frequency. The scriptures often speak about “rejoicing in our tribulations,” because joy attracts joy as much as “misery loves company.”
Universal Law #3 ~ The Law of Action
Faith without works is dead. The difference between who you are and who you want to be is what you do, when you engage in inspired actions that support your faith and belief. This does not mean you need to struggle, but you do put in attention and effort to manifest your intentions. Work is an eternal principle that was designed to teach us, challenge us, and help us grow.
Universal Law #4 ~ The Law of Correspondence
As the years go by, this law becomes more and more obvious to me: everything that is above reflects below, and your outer world reflects your inner world. Universal and ethereal principles have a corresponding principle in the physical plane. Everything that is temporal reflects a higher spiritual, eternal law . You can “take dominion” and change your circumstances from the inside out.
Universal Law #5 ~ The Law of Cause and Effect
Like Master Oogway says “there are no accidents.” Every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Every cause (thought, word, or action) has an effect, result, and consequence. We are agents and choose in which direction we go, and with each choice, we create the circumstances that align with that choice. I always say: choices create circumstances!
Universal Law #6 ~ The Law of Compensation
You’ve heard this wisdom in many ways: Karma, The Golden Rule , or “we reap what we sow” .
It also teaches that we could expect rewards, blessings, miracles, and prosperity when we choose what is right and in alignment with our life’s purpose.
For example, when you are the source of love, joy, peace, trust, and abundant generosity, you will also be the recipient of those gifts. It’s not wrong to receive, but clearly, it is better to give cheerfully, because that is the only way to receive, and, in turn, to expand our capacity to give more.
I am always puzzled by the amount of excuses people come up with as to why they shouldn’t give £1 to a begger and think that those excuses are in some way not applied to them by their own inner thoughts from the universe one way or the other.
Universal Law #7 ~ The Law of Attraction
When we ask and have the faith to know it is possible, we are then ready to receive it , and “for as he thinketh in in heart so is he” .
In Matthew 5, Jesus taught that anger and lust are just as homicide and adultery, because our thoughts become things. It sounded crazy then and it may sound crazy now, but entertaining negative, destructive, and self-sabotaging thoughts will bring them to reality as a “self-fulfilling prophecy.” It is not about merely “wishing” or “hoping” or “visualising” things, but being conscious to align our thoughts with the results we desire.
Universal Law #8 ~ The Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Energy
I looked up the word transmutation, and it means “the action of changing or the state of being changed into another form.” It’s a transformation and a conversion, because energy is in constant motion . As children of God, we can harness the creative power within us to change our lives.
This law also states that higher vibrational energies consume lower energies. It’s the “Let Go and Let God,” allow, and surrender law. Any fear-based resistance (like control, judgemental or perfectionism ) blocks divine providence and grace from manifesting in our lives.
Universal Law #9 ~ The Law of Relativity
Everything works together for our good . This life is an opportunity to learn, grow, and progress, and every person is given a series of tests, challenges, and situations with the purpose to strengthen them, and connect or draw them closer to our creator. Life happens for you, not to you. Learn to see hardships as stepping stones, rather than stumbling blocks.
This law also teaches to put everything into its right perspective. The nature, value, or quality of something is measured in relation to another object.
For example you can complain about not having the latest designer shoes but think about the person who has no feet!
Universal Law #10 ~ The Law of Polarity
There is opposition in all things. We appreciate light in the darkness, joy in the sorrow, and companionship in solitude. Solid-liquid, hot-cold, up-down, sad-glad, good-bad… everything has an opposite, we can see the difference, and choose for ourselves. Without one the other would not exist and one is created out of the absence of the other.
If something is not working for you, direct your attention to its opposite, and you will be empowered.. in other words, “BE Positive and You’ll BE Powerful!”
If you keep complaining about being broke then broke you will remain. If you focus on the universe surprising you and live in expectation then surprised you will be.
Universal Law #11 ~ The Law of Rhythm
“What comes around goes around, and what goes up must come down.” All energy vibrates and moves according to a certain rhythm. Everything has natural cycles, seasons, patterns, and stages of development. Each cycle is a reflection of the regularity of God’s universe.
To master each rhythm, you must rise above any negative part of the cycle. stay in flow throughout these rhythms of life. I am sure you have heard the following saying “after the storm, at least comes the calm.”
Universal Law #12 ~ The Law of Gender
Also called the Law of Gestation; it states that when we plant a seed (masculine / yang), it requires time and nurturing to grow and manifest (feminine / ying). Patience and persistence are necessary to succeed in any endeavor, and many give up right before the goal is reached. Trust in the universes timing! Which takes you back to universal law 6 and 7
What Difference Do The Universal Laws Make?
The Universal laws help us understand the greatness of the creator, as well as His loving and merciful ways, because, if you think about it, this magnificent order allows us predictability and help us prevent chaos.
Whether we believe so or not, we are creators of our own life. (I prefer to think that we are directors of our own movie.)
We can either direct or be directed, take responsibility or give our power away by living in blame. Our beliefs become our thoughts, if your belief is oppressive, negative or destructive then they govern your thoughts. These, in turn, determine our feelings, triggers the choices which influence our actions, and ultimately the outcomes.
Knowing, understanding, and aligning with the laws of the universe can help you become conscious and intentional about directing your life. We are empowered to create our own reality through our imagination, and not by default, because everything that the creator put in place in this universe works with you and for you.
I have proven this to myself so many times.
Female entrepreneurs share how to avoid feeling isolated
‘Meeting up with mothers who were running small firms or freelancing made me feel connected to the real world again,’ says The Early Hour’s Anne Ridout
Annie Ridout had a one-year-old daughter when she launched her digital magazine for mothers, The Early Hour, in 2015. “The only time that I could commit to writing and doing admin was during the baby’s nap times and evenings,” she says.
It meant that she had no free time to socialise and spent most days at home, alone.
She was left feeling incredibly lonely and unmotivated, but all that changed when she started to attend some networking events, including Mothers Meeting and The Step Up Club.
“Meeting up with other mothers who were running small firms or freelancing made me feel connected to the real world again,” she says. “I had women to talk to, moan with and get ideas from.”
At first, Ms Ridout found it intimidating, but soon realised that the key to networking is arriving prepared. “Do some research beforehand about the theme or subject – and think about what can you offer around it,” she says.
Don’t forget to ask for contact details, she adds, explaining that it’s not enough to just hand your card out:
“Send an email after the event saying that it was so lovely to meet them and ask to stay in touch – and don’t worry about coming across too keen; people will almost always be pleased to hear from you.”
Find a mentor
For Victoria Usher, founder of GingerMay PR, leaving the buzz of an office and the comradeship of colleagues was unsettling when she started her own communications firm:
“It was a shock to realise that time-consuming tasks, such as admin and finances, needed to be factored into my schedule.”
Not having people around to discuss problems with was hard, she admits: “I felt lonely at points; I missed having a team.”
To help her through, she found a mentor, Jo Butcher, whom she met while working for Dentsu Aegis.
“We had a weekly Skype call and she would help me with everything from brainstorming ideas to sense-checking my work,” explains Ms Usher. “It was comforting to know that there was someone at the end of the phone who had gone through the same and had a successful business to show for it.”
When looking for a mentor, try to find someone who has run a business in a similar field, but has grown it much bigger, she advises. It also helps if they have worked in the same role as you, so they truly understand the pressures that you’re facing.
‘There were few people whom I could talk to about work,’ says Lenka Lutonska
Co-work with colleagues
Female business coach, Lenka Lutonska, thinks women in particular feel lonely when starting-up because they crave emotional connections with others – and that can be hard when working alone.
“When I started out, friends did not understand why I would leave a well-paid job, sell my house and sacrifice my lifestyle, only to work on a business with very little income,” she says. “There were few people whom I could talk to about work; my computer was my only companion.”
She decided to “buddy-up” with an old friend who had started their own business in a similar industry.
“We would create co-working days where she would come to my office for a day, or vice versa. We exchanged ideas, honest feedback, kept each other accountable and even partnered on projects,” says Ms Lutonska.
“Working not only became more enjoyable, but we also helped each other to become aware of our blind spots.”
She also started a Facebook group, which was initially made to attract clients but ended up becoming a great networking tool as word spread quickly and more women joined. Community members often ask for help with specific business issues.
“It can feel lonely to build a business on your own, and tough; there’s always something that you don’t know.
“That’s why support groups are a fantastic source for tips and for socialising – they’re great for creating meaningful relationships with other entrepreneurs.”
Take a breather
A final tip comes from Sarah Cooke, owner of silicone jewellery company, Halia Rose, who suggests yoga classes.
“I do a regular class to get some time out to myself and stave off burnout, and I can chat to people about things totally unrelated to my business and get away from it for a while.”
Most Bottled Water is FILLED With Fluoride, Here’s a Complete List of Brands to Avoid
“Fluoride seems to fit in with lead, mercury, and other poisons that cause chemical brain drain,”Grandjean says. “The effect of each toxicant may seem small, but the combined damage on a population scale can be serious, especially because the brain power of the next generation is crucial to all of us.”
As with other fresh water supplies (e.g., spring water, lake water, river water), bottled waters have low levels of fluoride.
Fresh surface water contains an average of just 0.05 ppm. To put this in perspective, artificially fluoridated water (using industrial-grade fluoride chemicals) contains 0.7 to 1.2 ppm fluoride, which is 14 to 24 times more than the average natural level.
Fluoride Health Problems
There is a lot of controversy surrounding the presence of fluoride in public drinking water (fluoridation). For starters, before fluoride was used to fight cavities, it was (and still is) used in insecticides and rat poision.
Fluorosis is a condition that wears down the enamal of the tooth, leaving behind white spots, making the teeth more vulnerable to cavities and decay. Fluorosis is a very real health condition that can effect both children and adults. More and more evidence is mounting against the use of fluoride, even in small amounts. But it doesn’t appear to be a critical issue according to the US Surgeon Generals, as the last 5 Surgeon Generals have supported the fluoridation of drinking water. Incidentally, the claimed health benefits almost always point to oral health. Fortunately, the CDC is calling for new labeling rules requiring manufacturers to list a product’s fluoride content, which we have found to be missing in some cases.
What is too much Fluoride?
Fluoride itself is actually required by our bodies in low doses. When consumed in high amounts, specifically the man-made fluoride that is in public drinking water, can cause problems.
An estimated 5-10g of sodium fluoride can be lethal for some adults. While fluoride provides benefits to your oral health, it can also come with adverse side effects, that vary in severity depending upon the amount of fluoride consumed. Excessive consumption of fluoride can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. This can occur with doses 15 to 20 times lower than actual lethal doses (0.2-0.3mg/kg). Fluoride in exessive amounts can also cause problems in the formation bone.
Here are some bottled water brands that contain little to no fluoride:
A Better Water
Agromas Natural Mineral Water
Albertsons
Alpina
American Fare
American Star
Appco
Aqua Fresca
Aqua Panna
Aqua Pure
Aquarius Natural Mineral Water
Arbor Springs
Arlington Springs
Aquafina Water
Aqua Systems
Aqua Von
Artesian Wells
Augusta Medical – Daniels
Badger Water
Besco Pure Premium Drinking Water
BIOTA Colorado Pure Spring Water
Bio-2
Black Berry Farms
Blue Ice Natural Mineral Water
Boney’s
BORNEO
Bountyland
Buches
Calistoga
Callaway Blue
CAPA
Cascade
Century Springs
Chemung
Chippewa Spring Water
Citi Stop
Classic Selection
Clearly Arctic
Clear Mountain Spring Water
Clover Company Limited
Coach
Cold Country
Cohutta Mountain Spring Water
Cowboy Squeeze
Crowne Plaza Drinking Water
Crowne Plaza Natural Mineral Water
Cruel Jacks Spring Water
Crystal Mountain Spring Water
Crystal Point
Crystal Ridge
Crystal Spring Natural Spring Water
Culligan Water
Dakota Splash
Dannon
Deep Rock
Deep Rock Crystal Drop
Deep Rock Fontenelle
Deja Blue
Desert Quench
East Phils
Eco Quest
Elite
Equatorial Natural Mineral Water
Essentia Water
Eureka
Evian
E Water
Family Pantry
Famous Ramona Water
Flowing Springs
Food Club
Founders Square Bank
Fresh Brands Artesian
Fresh Brands Distilled Water
Fresh Brands Drinking Water
Fresh Market
Get-N-Go
Glacier Bay
Glen Summit Springs Water
Glen Summit Distilled Water
Glenwood Inglewood
Gordon Food Service
Great Bear
Great Value
Harvey’s
H2O4U
Henry’s
Hidden Valley Natural Mineral Water
Hillcrest Distilled Water
Hillcrest Drinking Water
Hillcrest Spring Water
Hilton PJ Natural Mineral Water
Hinckley Springs
HINT
Hi-Sprint Drinking Water
Hi-Sprint Natural Mineral Water
Hog Wash
Hon Less Natural Mineral Water
Ice Jam
Inland
Istana Natural Mineral Water
Joe Muggs
Joe Ragan’s Pure Water
Junior Johnson
Just Squeezed
KLGCC Natural Mineral Water
Kroger Bottled Water (Reverse Osmosis)
Krystal J Artesian Water
Krystal J Distilled Water
Laure
Leroy Jenkins Ministries
Logansport Savings Bank
Lowe’s
Martins
Masafi Pure Natural Mineral Water
Mercurio Produce
Mesra Drinking Water
Mesra Natural Mineral Water
Misty Mountain
Monadnock Mountain Spring Water
Montclair
Mountain Energy
Mountain Forest
Mountain Valley Spring Water
Mutiara Natural Mineral Water
Nantze Springs
New Frontier Bank
Niagra Mist
Nicolet Distilled
Northern Illinois University
Oasis Pure Drinking Water
Oasis Sparkling Water
Ogallala – Clear Cool Water
OUI Drinking Water
OUI Natural Mineral Water
Paiges
Parmer Pure H2O
Patriots Choice
Pelangi Natural Mineral Water
Penta Ultra Premium Purified Drinking Water
Piggly Wiggly
Polaris Water
Pristine Natural Artesian
Purely Sedona
Quick Stop
Rain Soft
Refresh Natural Mineral Water
Reiser Drinking Water
Request Foods, Inc.
Rip Time
Roundy’s “Purified Water”
Safeway – Refreshe
Sam’s Wine & Spirits
San Faustino Natural Mineral Water
San Pellegrino
Santee Springs
Scheopner’s Water
Sequoia Springs
Scotts
Shamrock
Shop-N-Cart
Shur-Fine
Silver Creek Purified Water
Silver Creek Spring Water
Sky Drinking Water
Smart Water
Snow Valley
Spinx
Stator Bros. Markets
Summit Mountain
Summit Springs
Summit Valley
T-Rex
Teton Mountain Lodge Spring Water
Tweetsie
United Dairy Farmers
Volvic
Vitamin Water
Veta Drinking Water
Valutime
Whistler Water
Whole Foods 365
Woodland Spring Water
Wyoming Machinery “Catipillar” Spring Water
Zodiac
List of brands to avoid that are known to be high in fluoride:
Alhambra
Arrowhead
Belmont Springs
Crystal Rock
Crystal Springs
Deer Park
Diamond Springs
Hindley Spri
Ice Mountain
Kandiyohi
Kentwood Springs
Mayer Bros.
Mount Olympus
Nursery Water
Ozarka
Poland Spring
Pure Flo
Puritan Springs
Shenandoah
Sierra Springs
Sparkletts
Zephyrhills
The list contains data provided by the International Bottled Water Association that you can use to make sure you’re not feeding fluoride to yourself and your family.
2 day Presentation Public Speaking Survival Course
Incredible Speaking Tipsby Diane Shawe M.Ed
A great presenter has two unique qualities: appropriate skills and personal confidence. This confidence comes from knowing what you want to say and being comfortable with your communication skills. Mastering these skills will make you a better speaker and presenter
Use these tips to create your own winning talk:
1. Know your audience. Think about what people are interested in, not in what you want them to be interested in. For instance, if your going to speak to an audience about money, it would be safe to assume that a vast majority of the audience would want to know how to increase their wealth. So if you have created wealth people would naturally be interested in how you achieved this and not want to listen to how someone else achieved it.
2. Know your message. If you don’t have a key principle or point to convey, your talk will drift aimlessly and your speech will come across as empty.
3. Have stories to illustrate your points. Stories entertain as well as educate. Learn how to stuff your presentation with delightful and humorous stories that happened to illustrate your key points. Delivering your
principles or message without stories will make you sound lifeless and boring. Breathe life into your speech with relevant stories.
4. Use visual props. Regardless of the mindless machine raging against power points, they can help to prompt you, appeal to visual learners and support additional materials to add value of keeping people interested.
5. End with a bang. Psychologists say people will remember the opening and the ending of your talk more than any other part of your speech. If you want people to remember you, end your presentation on a memorable note. I like to tell stories that inspire people.
Survival Pointers to consider when preparing your presentation:
Communication Style
Editing your Conversation
Appropriately Sharing Yourself with Others
Trust
Positive Self-Talk
Making the Most of Meetings
Body Language
Dealing with Sticky Situations
Why Talk?
Planning Your Presentation
Overcoming Nervousness
The STARR Pattern
Limit Your Information
Audience Profile
Your Speaking Voice
Add Punch to Your Presentation
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