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Trish

Reasons to Travel Solo

For my good friend Thomas Leeper Myrtle Beach has been his entire life, he was born here, he was raised here and apart from the odd trip across to other regions in North Carolina, he has remained here for the majority of his adult life. As someone who loves to travel I just struggle to understand people who don’t want to go out and see what the world has in store for them, and so I began to try and convince Thomas to take a trip away. Thomas had concerns about traveling alone, but I gave him plenty of reasons as to exactly why he should. Thomas took the advice and spent what sounds like a wonderful week in Costa Rica last year. I wanted to extend what I said to Thomas about solo travel to anyone out there who isn’t sure whether or not they should do it.

The Trip is Your Own

When you go solo traveling every decision that is made is your own, you don’t have to listen to what others want, you won’t have to compromise, nor will you have to sacrifice any aspect of the trip. When you travel solo you can eat when you want, go to whichever attractions take your fancy, go to bed early or late, and you won’t have to hear anybody else complain if things aren’t working out well. This autonomy on the road is so valuable.

Time to Reflect

Traveling can often be a very sobering experience and one which causes you to look at your own life and reflect on where you are going and where you have been. Now when you travel with others you can talk about these things but there is far less time for a personal reflection. When you travel solo however this is exactly what you will get, the chance to hit the pause button on life and just take stock of everything that is going on.

Meet People

Whilst you can of course meet people when you travel with others, it is not the same as when you travel alone because you are more of a package deal. When you travel alone, however, this is not to say that you have to stay alone, and you should take the opportunity of meeting new people during your trip. People are much more inclined to approach you if you are on your own than with friends or family and this can open up the chance to meet a number of interesting people, you may even make a friend!

Drinking It In

In my personal experience, I find that I get much more from a destination when I go there on my own. Whilst it is nice to share your experience with others and to chat about what you are seeing, you really get to focus better when you are by yourself.

If you want to go away alone but you are unsure, take my word for it, you will love it!

 

Ali Ata on What Beginner’s Should Do Before Real Estate Investment

Ali Ata has spent his career in real estate investment, he began working as a real estate agent in his younger days and in the last decade he has switched his focus to the buying and selling of luxury real estate. He is then the perfect person to offer advice to beginners who are just about to embark on their real estate investment career. Real estate investment is a great way to put your money to work and it offers a stable and diverse market for investors. Before you get started, here are some tips which Ali believes you should pay attention to before you part with a single cent.

Homework

Because of the large amounts of money that are involved in real estate investment, you can’t afford to make any mistakes and that is why now is the optimum time for you to get researching. Expect to spend at least 3 months learning about this industry and how you will operate within it. You should be looking at the market in various locations, which impacts the price of houses and how the market moves. You should also focus on what trends there are at the moment and which real estate property types are the easiest to sell and rent out. The more information you gather now, the better your chances are of success once you get started.

Making Contacts

Once you get started in real estate investment you are going to need to call upon many different services with regularity and that is why it is important that you use this time to make some contacts. For example, you will need lawyers and a solicitor on your team, you may also need workmen and construction companies and these services are going to give you much more favorable deals and prices if you have a relationship with them.

Understanding What Type of Investor You Will Be

There are many ways to make money in real estate and knowing what type of investor you plan to be is also going to be helpful once you get started. For example, you may wish to flip properties that involve buying them cheap, investing money to get them up to scratch and then selling them on for a small profit. Alternatively, you may wish to look for a long term investment and rent out the property or properties over a number of years. The choice is, of course, yours but deciding now will help you to get an idea of how to get started.

Cash

Finally, you have to align your finances and know exactly what you can afford to spend on your first property. Plan well as that cash will be tied up in an asset and you don’t want to restrict your ability to invest capital elsewhere. Make sure that you always leave money in your account as in this game there are always additional things to pay for which you may not have foreseen.

 

Marc Leder – Reasons to Be Inspired By Friends

Ever since turning 30 I have really started to view life in a very different way than before, especially with regards to ego. What I am referring to here in particular is that for many years I wouldn’t look upon my friends as inspirations, but rather competition, this is healthy at times but not always and if you have friends who are doing incredible things then you should look to them as inspiration and not with any envy or overwhelming ego. My buddy Marc Leder is a perfect example of this, for me he is just one of life’s winners, one of those guys that you know no matter what happens they will come up smelling of roses.

To be fair to Marc, he is a very smart individual and someone who knows exactly what he wants and is prepared to work hard enough to get it. For many years I envied Marc but in recent years I have come to understand just how important it is to be inspired by friends like this, and here is why.

Healthy

Harboring negative thoughts is just not healthy for you, much less when these negative thoughts come about because of something that a friend is doing. Whether you hold negative thoughts against them or against yourself based on what a friend is doing is irrelevant. Thinking like this can easily do damage to a friendship and for your own personal mental health it is something which you should try to avoid doing.

Opportunity

If you ask most people who inspire them they may talk about political figures, music artists, family or perhaps social crusaders. The is all well and good but in reality we can only ever be slightly influenced by these people because we don’t really know anything about them, other than what they have been able to achieve. This is why if you have a friend who is doing great things then this provides you with an amazing opportunity to be inspired by someone who you see each day, or at least with frequency. Being inspired doesn’t mean that someone is better than you or that you want to be them, it just means that through your respect and love, you can be motivated to think or act in a certain way, and that can only be beneficial.

Better Friendship

Friends should make each other better people and that is something that was lost on me for far too long. Having a friendship is a mutually beneficial relationship based on the things you like, the people you are and each other’s ability to inspire and motivate the other. Friends see the truth in you, they know what you are capable of and because of this they are able to advise and help you whenever you need it. Being inspired by a friend is not something negative at all, it is in fact the epitome of friendship and we all need to learn just how important this can be for all parties.

Dr. Richard Soper – The Power of a Poor Night’s Sleep

For experts like Dr. Richard Soper the issues of sleep and high quality sleep is an important one, and the importance of this cannot be understated. Richard has lead many research studies into the consequences of sleep on the body and the brain, and he has also helped to lead campaigns to promote better quality sleep. There is a certain romanticism which people make when they talk about how little they sleep and can still function, but the truth is that not getting enough high quality each night can do your body and your brain a great amount of damage. If you don’t sleep well, these are just some of the problems which you are going to encounter.

Poor Focus and Concentration

When we sleep we caregiving our brain the chance to rest and the chance to process all of the information which it has absorbed during the course of the day. If however we don’t give our brains this chance then we can expect it to operate at a much lower level than it should. There are a number of consequences of this and one is losing the ability to focus and concentrate. When your brain is not rested it can misfire which is why people who don’t sleep well can find it hard to focus on anything for a long period of time.

High Stress Levels

There is stress in everyone’s lives and those who have issues with stressed aren’t usually exposed to more than the next person, but they have a lower ability to cope with the stress which they have in their lives. This is the same in people who haven’t slept well, because the brain function is low, they struggle to deal with situations and can get stressed out very easily. You’ll know yourself how little patience you have when you’ve had a poor night’s sleep, and this is why you will also feel highly stressed.

Appearance

If you have had poor quality sleep for many nights then your appearance is going to change a great deal. Much like the brain rests and recuperates during sleep, so too does your body, repairing damaged cells and allowing the body to perform a reset ahead of the next day. This is why those who don’t sleep well end up with dry skin, bags under their eyes and sometimes even the appearance of hair and nails can change.

Later Life Problems

Dr. Richard and his team also often warn about the dangers which a prolonged period of poor sleep can cause in terms of diseases in later life. Many studies have indicated that there is a higher risk fo neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia in those people who have constantly gone without the recommended amount of high quality sleep over a long period of time.

The odd night of bad sleep is fine, but if you consistently have issues then you need to address this to avoid problems like those listed here.

 

Home Improvement & Maintenance Tips For New Homeowners

When you purchase a new home, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement of it all. A new place to call home, a new level of stability, and a new financial responsibility are enough to keep your brain thoroughly occupied.

However, there are other issues to attend to when you become the owner of a new home. Whether the property is brand new or just new to you, there will always be certain improvement and maintenance details to understand.

Take a moment now to read through a brief summary, featuring some helpful home improvement/maintenance tips for those who are new to homeownership.

Yard maintenance for the seasons

Depending on the time of the year, your yard needs different types of care. As a new homeowner, you should familiarize yourself with the various yearly upkeep tasks you’ll need to complete to keep your yard looking lively and in order.

If you have a lot of trees in your yard, for example, you’ll need to invest in tree care throughout the year. You don’t want your trees dying or looking shabby.

Your HVAC unit is vital

The cost of total replacement for your home’s heating and air unit could put quite a strain on your bank account. It’s wise to educate yourself on the proper upkeep of your unit, so you can get as many good production years from it as possible.

Change your air filter every month on the same day. Have your system cleaned and inspected at least once every few years. Look after your HVAC system, and your home will remain comfortable for many, many years.

Mind the gaps in your home

Gaps in your home allow airflow from the outside to interfere with your interior environment. An unstable environment could make room for mold, and gaps make it more difficult to control the temperature in your home.

Make a trip around the house yearly to inspect for air leaks and gaps around windows or doors. Energy consumption in your home will be much more manageable without the trouble of leaky windows, doors, or crawl spaces.

Finish the attic or basement

If you’re looking to invest in some home improvement, you can start high or low. Finishing the attic or basement in your home will add to the square footage. You’ll gain equity by completing a new room in your house.

Small maintenance tips

There are several small-time maintenance tasks you should complete around your home throughout the year. For instance, you’ll need to clean out your dryer vents, clean up your refrigerator coils, and clean out gutters and downspouts every few months to keep everything running smoothly.

 

4 Tips For Going Back To Work After Having a Baby

Having a new baby isn’t only exciting; it’s transformational. Along with the excitement, however, can also come a lot of challenges in terms of finding a balance between work and parenthood.

Initially, you’ll be able to spend all the time you need with your baby during your maternity leave. However, when it’s time to go back to work, you may not feel ready. It’s not always easy to leave your baby behind and go back to work as if nothing ever happened.

Therefore, in order to help you best transition back to work, here are some of the best tips.

Take Things Slow

If you’re feeling less than ready to get back to work, then you’re not alone. It’s perfectly normal to feel separation anxiety from your baby at first. Give yourself some time to get back into your old routine.

You won’t feel immediately ready to bounce back. It will take several weeks and perhaps even months to catch up to where you left off. You may feel overwhelmed by the amount of work that piles up on your desk. Try to take things day by day and prioritize as best as you can. Tackle the most important thing first and work your way down.

Find Childcare That You Trust

Going back to work will be much easier if you find someone to care for your child that you trust. When you go to work, you’ll be much less distracted and worried if you leave your child in good hands.

If you’re unsure about the person you’re leaving your child with, then you won’t be able to get any work done. Whether you choose a daycare or go with a nanny, make sure that you have confidence in your choice! Your ability to get back to work depends on it!

Schedule Pumping

If you’re breastfeeding, then you’ll need to schedule pumping. Going too long without pumping could make for leaky shirts and possibly even mastitis.

Not only does pumping keep your milk supply up, but you’ll be able to store your breastmilk for your baby for later. If you’re worried about asking for breaks to pump, don’t worry. Federal laws are put in place that require employers to provide a space for nursing employers to pump without having to worry about intruders.

Practice Self-Care

Being the parent of a newborn is a hard job. When you couple it with having to wear multiple hats at work, it can quickly start to overwhelm you. It’s vital that you take time to be the best person you can be by practicing self-care. By taking time to let yourself rest and recuperate between being an employee and a parent, you’ll be able to handle the responsibility of it all much better.

 

Home Improvement Projects To Boost Equity

Once you become a homeowner, the drive to better your property begins. Everything you do to upgrade or repair your property will add to the resale value from the moment you take ownership.

Your home is not just a safe space for you and your family. It is a long term investment. Take a moment to look over a short list of some of the most impactful updates you can make to your home. Boost your equity and your living space at the same time with these helpful hints.

Upgrade your garage door

You may not consider your garage such an important part of your home, but homebuyers value a well-maintained garage area. Try updating the garage door and it’s components to add an extra appeal to future home buyers.

Give the house a fresh coat of paint

It won’t cost you much (in perspective) to give your home a fresh coat of paint before you choose to sell it. A new paint job will boost your home’s curb appeal while shedding several years off of its aesthetic.

Add energy efficient appliances

Adding energy efficient appliances to your home may cost you a bit of dough in the beginning, but you’ll make your money back over time. The trick is to install the upgrades long before you plan to sell your home.

Get the use out of them, and then get even more benefits from them once you resell the property. You may also create an opportunity for a tax credit by upgrading your appliances to Energy Star energy efficient machines.

Finish the attic/basement area

There’s never a bad time to add a little extra to your floor plan. Extra square footage means that your home is worth more on the market. Finishing the attic or basement space also means that you and your friends/family will have more room to congregate.

Add some gorgeous landscaping

Adding some trees, bushes, and perennials to your yard will spruce up the curb appeal of your home. You may think it only matters when it’s time to sell, but maintaining your yard has other benefits.

You didn’t purchase the property to spend all of your time indoors. Enjoy the surrounding land, and invest in upgrading your landscaping.

Install new windows and doors

If you’re living in an older home, it may be a good time to replace the windows and doors in the place. It’s not the most inexpensive upgrade for your home, but it will add value to the property.

Do a minor bathroom remodel

You don’t have to do a major overhaul if it’s not necessary. A minor bathroom remodel can be quite beneficial to your home’s equity as well. Try replacing the vanity and refurbishing the bathtub, and you’ll be well on your way to a “new-to-you” bathroom setup.

 

3 ways meal prepping can change your life

Do you find it all too easy to close the fridge door, put your chopping board away and order in a takeaway? Even with the best of intentions, meal prepping can be difficult to stick to. From your physical and mental health to your finances however, the benefits could well change your life.

A recent study found that almost a third of British adults eat alone ‘most of the time’. As a result, many feel as if it’s not worth cooking just for themselves. Here are three compelling arguments as to why that’s not the case.

You’ll improve your diet

Let’s face it, you don’t eat out or stock your fridge with ready meals because it’s good for your health. Whether you’re doing so because you’re short on time or you feel like indulging in a treat, you’re probably taking on far more fats, sugars and salt than you otherwise would if you were cooking yourself.

Everything is okay in moderation, of course, but by planning out a week of healthy meals you’re far likelier to get more of what’s good for you. Controlling exactly what you’re eating is also a huge plus if you have any intolerances or allergies.

You’ll save money

Are you a sucker for a lunchtime meal deal? How about a post-gym snack? Those sandwiches and shakes all add up, however.

Cooking in bulk, on the other hand, often works out far cheaper than buying ingredients in single-meal quantities or picking up something pre-made. Everyday items such as grains, pulses, nuts and oats are often inexpensive when sold by the kilo and will last you for weeks on end.

It may require some upfront costs, like a larger fridge and other nifty appliances, and you’ll have to consider if and how you can afford it, but soon, both your body and your bank balance will be reaping the rewards.

You’ll better balance your day

Modern life is hectic. Amongst a busy weekday schedule of meetings, parenting duties and gym classes, it can be near impossible to cobble a decent meal together. Finding one you’ve pre-made, ready and waiting, can be a blessing. You’re doing your future a favour.

Putting a few hours’ work in on a Sunday saves you being late for your appointments or skipping eating altogether. Try it for yourself to see if you can lower your stress levels and keep your hangriness at bay.

Do you feel ready to give meal prepping a go? With these three benefits firmly in mind, you’ll be better placed to make a go of it for good.

The Importance of Seniors Getting Out of the House This Winter

With the year coming to a close, the weather is gradually getting worse which means that it is becoming much easier to say inside instead of venturing out. While it can be nice and cosy to wrap up warm and stay inside, it is important that you are still going out so that you can escape the house, exercise and socialise.

A Difficult Time for Seniors

Winter can be a difficult season to navigate for older people and grandparents, especially if you are unsteady on your feet or not particularly mobile. The combination of darkness and uneasy conditions when it has been raining heavily or snowing can make going out a daunting task, but equally it is not healthy for your mind or body to stay cooped inside all winter.

Friends & Family

Having friends and family around during this time of the year is important because they can provide support when you go out whether you are meeting the family for lunch or simply taking a walk to the shops. Do not shy away from asking for help as people will always want to help especially if you have shown concerns about going out by yourself.

Identify What Your Concerns Are

It is also helpful if you think about what your concerns are when you leave the home. This might be walking in the dark, being surrounded by lots of people, slipping on the ice, getting down the stairs etc. Once you know what your concerns are, you can then work with your family to find the best solutions.

Having the Right Accessories

You will also find that there are a wide range of accessories that can be used by older people to navigate the difficult winter conditions. You might find that a cane can give you greater stability or perhaps a mobility scooter if you do not want to walk in the winter. You can also find specialist footwear from places like Mobility Solutions which can give you greater stability and give you the confidence to venture out even in the middle of winter.

Make Plans

One of the best incentive to get out of the house during winter is to make plans. This will allow you the time to build up confidence and determine the best way to get out whether you are meeting family, going food shopping, meeting friends for lunch or getting your Christmas shopping done.

Winter can be a difficult season when you get older but it is important that you are able to get out of the house and hopefully this post will help you to do this and enjoy this special time of the year.

Going Away for Christmas

Going away for Christmas with the family can be a lovely idea and ensure that it is a year that you never forget. Whether you are setting off to get some much-needed winter sun or you are heading to a winter wonderland to feel as Christmassy as possible, you will find that it can be stressful travelling with kids so here are a few tips to make the experience as smooth as possible.

Choose an Easy Destination

First, you should choose somewhere that will be simple to travel to and provide an easy holiday experience. There are lots of good options for Christmas, including many major European cities which come alive at Christmas with beautiful lights, markets and festive events or you could look to somewhere with warmth and sunshine.

Choose Easiest Form of Transport

Often, the most stressful aspect of going away with small children is travel so you should think about the easiest possible route. If you are flying, you might find it less stressful to catch the train to the airport instead of having to drive which can be another cause of stress. You can also book your tickets online in advance, such as a train travelling from Portsmouth Harbour to Gatwick Airport.

Create a Loose Itinerary

You will want this to be a holiday that is special and create many happy memories so it is a good idea to have something planned for each day. It is helpful to have plans but this should also be flexible as you do not want to force the family to do things if they do not feel like it.

Pack in Advance

Every parent that has taken their kids on holiday knows just how stressful packing can be. This is why it is a good idea to create a checklist for your kids and to help them to do a practice pack in advance of the holiday. They should then have their bag packed and ready well in advance of leaving the house so that there is no major rush and stress to start the holiday.

Going on holiday over Christmas can be fantastic and make it a festive period which is extra special, but it is also sure to cause some stress for the parents. Travelling with children will always be difficult but with added expectations it can cause a great deal of stress. Hopefully, these tips will help to reduce stress and allow for the best Christmas yet this year.