Did you know 77 percent of people want to learn how to live more sustainably? Environmentally-friendly products and services are more popular than ever, but people many times assume living sustainably is something they cannot afford.

In fact, there are many ways you can turn to green living without spending more. Read on to learn some tips for living sustainably without breaking the bank.

1. Living Sustainably: Stop Using Your Dryer

Your clothes dryer uses up a lot of energy. The dryer and the refrigerator are the appliances that use up the most energy. A quick way of solving this is to air-dry your clothes.

This is the custom in many parts of the world and it can be better for the environment as well as better for your wallet since your energy bill will be lower each month. While you are at it, you can also choose to wash your clothes with cold water instead of hot. This is because your washer’s energy use comes mainly from heating up the water.

2. Solar Power

You want to turn to renewable energy sources like solar power. Solar power reduces the use of fossil fuels, putting less of a strain on the planet.

Having solar panels installed in your home is a simple way of reducing your energy bill and doing some good to the environment. Not only will you save money and help the planet, but using solar energy can also help protect the power grid in case of an overload or natural disasters. Learn about solar panels to see if they are right for your home.

3. Eat Less Meat

The production of meat is one of the largest issues the planet faces when fighting climate change. Raising cattle uses up a lot of resources, like water, and the animals themselves release methane into the air which damages the environment. Chemicals and waste from the production of meat also end up in the ground and waterways.

By choosing to eat less meat, you can help reduce the impact this industry has on the planet. It does not mean you have to stop eating meat completely, but why not reduce your intake?

4. Reduce Plastic Use

Plastic takes over 400 years to decompose, making it an option that you want to avoid. Even the production of plastic uses up a lot of energy, so it is an option to avoid as much as possible.

Instead of using plastic water bottles, you want to consider reusable ones made of metal. You will save money and help the planet.

Live a Greener Life

Simple changes like these can have a huge impact on the planet. They do not require much expense from you and they can actually save you money in the long run. Something as easy as cutting meat from your diet for a few days a week or considering solar power can help.

Turn to our Lifestyle page to get more tips on living sustainably!

The post 5 Tips for Living Sustainably Without Breaking the Bank appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

There’s more to the saying ‘obey your thirst’ than what you may think.

Based on a US study, water makes up as much as 60% of our bodies. Body organs such as the brain and lungs are largely composed of water. So, it’s no surprise that we need to hydrate ourselves to maintain our bodily functions. Health experts usually recommend six to eight glasses of water but this will vary depending on your age group and typical food intake.

Right Kind Of Water

There are a lot of options when it comes to sourcing your water. You can buy bottled ones fortified with beneficial nutrients, such as electrolytes and vitamins. You can also drink water straight from the faucet. However, if you prefer tap water, it’s recommended to invest in water filters that improve water quality, such as the ones in this URL, to make sure your drinking water is safe.

Drinking enough water helps to ensure optimum body function. Water helps us absorb the nutrients we get from food and aids in regulating our body heat. Plus, it helps maintain the brain’s hydration and oxygen supply. But if these benefits aren’t enough to convince you, here are 5 more reasons why you should be drinking more water:

• It May Help With Digestion

If you’re having difficulty passing stool, you might be constipated. There are several causes of constipation: change in routine, stress, or not drinking enough water. Getting enough water, along with the right amount of fiber, may help improve digestion and bowel movement.

• It’s The Most Affordable Weight Loss Partner

Most fitness and weight loss gurus would tell you that getting a fit body is 20% exercise and 80% diet. This may be true since there are recommended amounts of calorie consumption that vary depending on your gender, weight, and age group. While drinking doesn’t magically burn excess fats, it may help by keeping you full. As a result, you refrain from overeating and consume fewer calories.

• It May Help Reduce Urinary Problems

Our cells produce metabolic waste products that are subsequently transported into the kidneys. In turn, the kidneys filter out the waste and excrete them through urination. Water helps to make this process more efficient. Without enough water, these toxins may build up and eventually cause health issues, particularly in the urinary system, which includes the kidneys and the bladder.

• It May Help You Glow

Our skin is the largest organ of our body. It also requires constant hydration to maintain its integrity. Although skincare commonly involves the use of topical products, drinking plenty of water, along with a healthy diet, may help you achieve that glowing look.

On the contrary, not getting enough fluids may lead to dry skin that looks dull. Dry skin is also prone to itching and skin damage since it reduces the skin’s protective integrity.

• It May Help Improve Energy Levels

When working out, we lose a lot of water from sweating. Consequently, not getting enough water during your sessions, especially when prolonged, may lead to dehydration and poor performance. Hydrating may help in keeping your energy levels up as it assists in proper blood circulation. Plus, water helps in the lubrication of bone joints, which is used a lot in workouts.

Drink More 

Not getting enough water may affect our bodily functions and overall well-being. Dehydration may cause dizziness, kidney problems, and even stroke. Although the importance of drinking plenty of water is a well-known fact, most people still struggle to drink the recommended amount of water every day.

We’ve thought of ways to help you drink more. Here are some tips:

• Remind Yourself: Almost everyone carries their phone with them everywhere they go, so setting up a reminder on your phone screen or using an alarm can help you hit the recommended number of glasses daily. You can also be creative by posting notes with reminders around your room or work area.
• Carry A Bottle: Take your water anywhere you go, especially if you’re on the move. Reusable bottles are available in different kinds, sizes, and colors, so choosing one that fits your lifestyle won’t be a problem.
• Add Flavors: You may add fruit slices from lemons, strawberries, or watermelons. This doesn’t just infuse flavor but it adds vitamins into your regular water too.
• Spread It Out: Another better way of getting enough water is to drink it in intervals. For example, if you’re working eight hours a day, you can choose to drink one glass every hour.

Conclusion

Drinking water helps in digestion, temperature regulation, and cell oxygenation. It may also help in losing weight and achieving clear skin. However, getting enough water is often a challenge. If you find yourself in this predicament, follow the tips above until they become a part of your daily habit.

The post 5 Reasons You Should Drink More Water appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

We love our families and friends like no one else, but haven’t you ever heard that there is just some information you shouldn’t share with anyone, not even them?

Sometimes, when you make passwords on certain websites or receive a security code, the organization tells you not to share the information with anyone. And if those things couldn’t convince you, there’s also your Social Security number, which is basically who you are in the United States.

So, what are the dos and don’ts of sharing personal information with family and friends? It kind of depends. Let’s learn about it.

Take Home Security Seriously

If you’ve recently gotten one of the many home security systems on the market today, then you know yours comes with a control panel from which you can do anything you need to within the system.

It is from here that you can input the security code you would need to avoid an alarm sounding whenever you come home from being out. Who do you trust with that code? Obviously, your family and friends should have it if they come over a lot or watch your house for you. But be careful about who else knows your code. That could be inviting trouble if it gets into the wrong hands.

Protect Your Health

Healthcare information is among the most sensitive data we own as individuals. No one but your healthcare provider has the right to know what is going on with you.

Now, as we know, you can designate an individual to get this information about you, someone like a spouse or parent, but be careful about who else you share with. It isn’t your employer’s right to know about your health, and we imagine you enjoy that privacy. So be careful with health information. Don’t give in and overshare. It could go the wrong way for you at some point.

Passwords

We all have passwords. We have them for our banking apps, internet browsers, emails, and utility accounts. In general, you should never have to share this information with anyone. But we also know that friends and family share passwords for their cable, streaming platforms, and other forms of entertainment.

Just be careful that information doesn’t spread around. Some malicious actor could use that account access to spend money in your name.

Always make sure you trust those you share with, and you should be fine. But be selective in this. Don’t be afraid to protect yourself. No one else is going to do it.

The post Dos and Don’ts of Sharing Sensitive Information with Family and Friends appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

People love casinos and the opportunities they present to win a lot of money with a little luck. They travel to these locations with high expectations and optimism, hoping to strike it lucky and walk away richer than they came. The moment you enter a casino you need to know that winning and losing our two faces of the same coin. In anticipation of those big winnings, punters should also be careful not to lose more money than they can afford. How much money should you bring to the casino is a simple question with a complex answer.

Flawless bankroll management is essential

When it comes to gambling, there is an indissoluble link between the chances to win, potential payouts and the stakes. Most games will require players to venture a significant amount for a chance to win an equally large sum. Progressive jackpot games are the odd exception, as they can trigger big winnings with a tiny investment. The downside is that these games have slim chances to produce a winner, so it can take a long time before you actually win.

Table games, slots like the ones you can play at this site and all the other games you can play in the casino will require you to bet large sums or make risky bets. Regardless of what approach you prefer, bankroll management will be essential. First of all, you should accept the fact that there is a possibility to lose the entire amount you bring to the casino. Accepting this will help you make the right decision by only bringing in the money you can afford to lose. The amount can differ based on your resources and appetite for gambling.

Equally important when playing casino games is to exercise proper bankroll management. This means that you only bet a fraction of the resources you are willing to commit on that particular gambling session. Depending on how willing you are to take chances, you can bet more or less than 5% per round. This threshold is widely regarded as the safe amount from which players can start when crafting a long-term winning strategy. Chasing losses and increasing the stakes after losing is always a serious mistake.

Play any games for free online

The advantage of playing at an online casino is that you are always in control of your spending. It is easier to keep track of the amount deposited and wager, as well as the winnings. The same bankroll management strategies apply over the Internet, so there is no learning curve to worry about. Another perk of choosing online casinos is that you can try all the games for free indefinitely. Except for a handful of table games compatible with real dealers all the other games can be tested for free.

The bottom line is that when it comes to gambling you need to hope for the best and prepare for the worse. Bet responsibly and only gamble the amounts you can afford to lose.

The post How much money should you bring to a casino to play slots? appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Oh, the weather outside is frightful! Luckily, there are ways you can ensure you make it through the season feeling absolutely delightful.

As the world continues to navigate the effects of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever that you take care of yourself so you can enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

Here are four handy tips to help your immune system brave the oncoming storm:

#1 Stay Active

When you’re all bundled up, exerting any kind of physical effort is probably the last thing on your mind. Resist the temptation to lounge 24/7 during sweater weather and challenge yourself to get active instead! The simple act of moving your body is one of the best ways to avoid catching a cold. Plus, the endorphins make you feel amazing!

Here are some things to consider when staying on the move:

• Get Some Fresh Air – If you’re able to, try to get outside when you exercise. After spending most of the year isolated in our homes, it’s important to gain perspective and engage with the world around us as best we can. Breathe in what’s around you because it will pay off in the long run.
• Find The Right Workout for You – If the thought of running a mile gives you bad high school gym flashbacks, take up a yoga class instead. If Pilates isn’t your cup of tea, invest in a cycling bike for your home. When you find something that you love to do, you’ll likely forget you’re working out in the first place. You never know—you could discover a brand new hobby!
• Move and Groove With a Buddy – If working out isn’t working out, team up with a good friend or family member to help hold you accountable. The added support will help you build good healthy habits when it comes to exercising, and it’s way more fun!

Do your best to move your body at least once a day! Whether it’s two hours or twenty minutes, breaking a sweat is never a bad idea when it comes to remaining as healthy as can be.

#2 Watch What You Eat

Winter means all sorts of holiday goodies and sweets. There’s nothing wrong with indulging in a cup of cocoa every now and then, but be aware of what you’re consistently putting into your body.

What you consume has a tremendous impact on how you feel, so here are some ways to set yourself up for success:

• Cut Out the Junk – Cookies, cakes, and candy, oh my! While undoubtedly delicious, sugar is not on your side when it comes to boosting your immune system. Make sure you’re maintaining a balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, proteins, and healthy fats so you have enough antioxidants in your system to protect yourself from any disease or virus!
• Take Supplements – Vitamin D and vitamin C are just a few of the many vitamins that are essential to keeping your immune system in tip-top shape. Consider taking daily supplements like EpiCor for immune health to ensure that your body is getting what it needs to stay healthy.
• Water – It’s the key to life! Keep your juices flowing by making sure you’re getting enough water at all times. Try to limit drinking too much coffee or alcohol so you aren’t getting dehydrated throughout the day.

#3 Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Catching some Z’s now can save you from being on bed rest later on. While you snooze, you give your body the chance to heal itself and to better prepare to fight off future germs. If it’s difficult for you to hit the hay at a reasonable hour, try to cut back on caffeine during the day, limit screen time before bed, or invest in some Darya room darkening curtains for better sleep.

#4 Prioritize Your Mental Health

The chaos of the year may be hitting you hard right around this time. The good news is that there are effective ways to fight off end-of-year stress. When you do your best to make peace with yourself and the world around you, your immune system benefits greatly.

Taking fifteen minutes out of your busy day to just be still and breathe can make all the difference when it comes to your overall health. If you’re unsure of where to start, download the Headspace app for guided meditations to help keep you grounded.

You also may be letting productivity get in the way of your rest and relaxation, especially if you’ve started working from home due to the pandemic. It can feel unnecessary to plan out time to chill out, but it’s a crucial step in maintaining your immunity. Be sure to set intentional ‘self-care’ time slots in your calendar and create clear boundaries between your work life and your home life.

Walkin’ in a Wellness Wonderland

If this year has taught us anything, it’s that life is unpredictable, so we must focus on the things we can control. Treat yourself with grace and compassion by looking out for your health. Whenever you can, hype your immune system up as if it’s your best friend in the whole wide world (because that’s what it should be!).

The post 4 Tips to Boosting Your Immune System in Winter appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

With the holidays right around the corner, it is time to start getting that gift list in order! There are so many people in your life to shop for, and each of them could benefit from a different gift. Well, we want to make sure you are fully prepared when it comes to those business people in your life. That person who stops at nothing to reach their goals, that tackles everything head on, and doesn’t let anything stop them from reaching their fullest potential.

The good news is they probably already have the practical things like a budget, space, and business plans in place, so the basics are covered and are well established. Though this might seem like it would make it harder to shop for them, because they seem like they already have it all, don’t worry, there are still plenty of gifts to get them that will help them on their entrepreneurial journey!

• Meal Subscription Service

If they spend most of their time in the office (or now their home office), they probably let things like grocery shopping get put on the backburner. Plus, if they are always on the go, they may not have time to stop by and pick up ingredients for a meal, let alone go home and cook it. That’s where you come in! A subscription from Blue Apron is a thoughtful gift that will do some of the hardest parts for them! The subscription takes care of the recipe picking, shopping, and measuring out all the ingredients. All they have to do is grab the items for the meal and cook it. It may also provide them with the creative outlet they need in the kitchen!

• A Watch 

A watch is a great addition to any wardrobe, but especially for someone always on the go, hitting meeting after meeting, trying to stay on a proper time table. Women’s watches from MVMT are a beautiful piece to add to their ensemble, and they have a watch for everyone, no matter their style preferences. Plus, MVMT provides each watch with a 2-year warranty, so they are covered! Their prices are extremely affordable for the quality you receive. You really can’t go wrong with a watch from MVMT.

• Card Holder

For someone who seems like they are perpetually busy, they may not have the time or space to carry an entire wallet. Yes, you have to have time to carry a large wallet, because you have to fish through it to find your ID or your card. But, a Card Holder from Kate Spade is a perfect solution for the time and space woes. They will be able to carry only the necessities, which helps them cut out the excess baggage and the wasted time a large wallet brings about.

• Vitamin Subscription

Sometimes when people are motivated in the workplace, they let their personal health and well-being be put lower and lower on the priority lists. Don’t let their health suffer! Show you have their back with a monthly vitamin subscription. Ritual has a daily vitamin to help aid the normal diet, and doesn’t fill them will unnecessary amounts of vitamins. They are vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO certified capsules that contribute to aiding in brain and bone health, promote red blood cell formation, and have tons of antioxidant support. It is truly a daily vitamin that works smarter, not harder, just like them.

• A Notebook

Moleskine’s classic leather notebook is a sturdy, elegant, and sleek gift for anyone, but especially entrepreneurs. It is perfect for them to write their tasks, their accomplishments, and any note they can think of. Plus, it’s classy look helps to add to their overall appearance. The hard or soft cover gives good versatility depending on how they like to handle their items (hardcover for those that are rougher, soft cover for those that like flexibility). You can even personalize their cover if you would like to put their name on it or give them an encouraging message!

Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Gift

When buying for a business focused friend, it is important to stick to gifts that are practical and something they can use to help them in their workplace ventures. And we think all of these options fit those needs!

The post 5 Gifts for the Motivated Entrepreneurs in Your Life appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Pregnancy is a beautiful, magical time in your life as you prepare for the miraculous, momentous occasion known as childbirth… is a lie they tell you when you’re feeling bloated, gassy, and altogether uncomfortable.

It’s not that pregnancy isn’t beautiful and miraculous, but it certainly doesn’t always feel that way when you’re in the throes of it. Stock up with these four must-have items for a slightly more magical (and less uncomfortable) nine months.

#1 Comfy Maternity Clothes

When your belly starts to swell, all you really want to do is throw on your comfiest pair of sweatpants and never take them off. Unfortunately, that’s not exactly an option when you’re working during your pregnancy—okay, it’s an option, just maybe not the most professional one.

Stock up on maternity clothes and gadgets that make you feel like you’re lounging around the house, even when you’re at your office desk:

• Leggings – If dogs are a man’s best friend, then leggings are a woman’s, For the record, dogs are also women’s best friend, but that’s neither here nor there. With the right outfit, a pair of classic black leggings can still come off as professional, while affording you all the comfort in the world.

• Waistline and bra extenders – Purchasing a whole new maternity wardrobe is expensive. Instead, you can get waistline extenders for the pants you already own and a bra band extender for your favorite brassieres.

• Underwear – As your body changes, your current underwear may start to ride up or bunch in uncomfortable places. A new pack of under-the-bump maternity underwear will provide all the comfort of a granny panty without, well, having to wear granny panties.

Added bonus: you can shop for these online, so for now, you actually don’t need to get off the couch or out of those uber-comfy sweatpants.

#2 Pregnancy Pillow

Good sleep is important at the best of times. When you’re pregnant, it’s your only real chance to rest and recharge after a long day of carrying around a tiny, growing human.

Ensure you get the best sleep possible with a clinically-tested pregnancy pillow. This sleep positioning device is designed to reduce nighttime acid reflux—sort of like a body pillow, but to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort rather than run-of-the-mill loneliness.

#3 Belly Bands

Think of a belly band—or tummy sleeve—like pregnancy Spanx, except they’re all about comfort rather than appearance. They have the added bonus of smoothing lines and concealing any unbuttoned pre-pregnancy jeans that you just can’t let go of, but more importantly, they offer unprecedented support and functionality:

• They alleviate lower back strain and pain by lifting and redistributing your belly weight.

• They’re breathable and moisture-wicking to maintain comfort in the aftermath of any untimely pregnancy sweats.

• They encourage proper posture by enforcing correct spinal alignment.

• They stretch as you grow to guarantee their longevity throughout the various stages of pregnancy.

#4 Morning Sickness Relief

Even people who know nothing about pregnancy know about morning sickness. We’ve all seen that scene in the movie where the woman vomits in the bathroom at work and suddenly realizes, oh my gosh, I’m pregnant! You can’t even name the specific movie because it happens in literally every single one.

Those women are just acting, but for you, morning sickness is very, very real.

In addition to taking soothing morning sickness lozenges, you can also set yourself up for success with a few simple lifestyle adjustments:

• Eat small portions throughout the day. Both large meals and not eating can exacerbate nausea.

• Avoid pungent odors, even the “good” ones. This includes strong perfume, garlic and other cooking ingredients, and definitely the garbage or compost—sorry hubby, I can’t take out the trash! It triggers my morning sickness!

• Stick to a high-protein, high-carb, low-fat diet while avoiding greasy, spicy, and gas-inducing foods—your seven-layer bean dip will just have to wait.

It’ll All Be Worth It Soon Enough

Pregnancy has its ups and downs, just like life, but it’s only temporary. Focus on what’s ahead—your first-born child—and all the rest will seem worth it, especially when you’ve gifted yourself a pregnancy pillow, belly band, and the world’s comfiest maternity clothes.

The post 4 Must-Have Items for Your First Pregnancy appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Moving is never easy, and moving with kids can be even more of a challenge. We know you’re a great parent who always prioritizes your children, so you want moving to be as positive and stress-free for your family as possible.

Luckily, there are a few tricks you can utilize to make moving a seamless process for everyone (yes, yourself included!).

Read on to learn six tips that will help make the move with your children less stressful.

#1 Communication is Key

Moving is a big adjustment for anyone, and kids are especially sensitive to changes in their environment. Whether it’s your family’s first move or you’re seasoned moving pros, it’s important to prioritize talking to your kids about their feelings.

When having the discussion, consider the following tips:

• Focus on the positive, exciting aspects of moving
• Be open and honest about upcoming changes
• Allow your kids to ask questions
• Listen to their fears, but encourage their hopes
• Set realistic expectations

#2 Encourage Your Kids to Lend a Helping Hand

There are several benefits to having your kids help with the move.

Involving your kids in the process will give them a healthy sense of agency during this uncertain time. Plus, many hands make for lighter work, and you might be surprised at how much kids can help with tasks like packing or organizing! Create a fun game that will make them organize their own stuff! It will definitely be easier to declutter a space if you find the right game for them to play!

You can also help your kids get excited about the move by letting them help pick out paint colors or decorations for their new room. It’ll get their creative juices flowing and keep their spirits up, especially if they’re feeling sad about the transition.

#3 Prepare for a Possible Meltdown or Two
Even the most well-prepared family is probably going to experience a few turbulent moments during the moving process. Preparing for some big emotions and making a plan for how to handle them can help avoid any serious meltdowns.

No matter how excited you’ve gotten your kids about moving, when the reality sets in, sometimes the wave of emotions is difficult to process. Trust us, reminding yourself that moving-related tantrums are normal (and fleeting) can help make the experience easier on you as a parent.

#4 Make Moving Fun

We realize this is easier said than done, but you’ll be doing your kids a favor by amping up the process. Turn this big event into a bonding experience by creating moving games, letting your kids make box forts, or taking them to explore exciting places in your new location. You want your kids to look back on moving with a smile!

While you might be busy looking up Seattle movers, New York storage options, or San Francisco mortgage lenders, it’s still essential to take time to prioritize your family’s emotional health.

#5 Stick to a Schedule

It’s easy to let your everyday routines slip through the cracks when your day is consumed with packing, unpacking, or ironing out logistical details. Keeping your kids on a consistent schedule will help make the move less disruptive.

In the middle of a move, don’t let these schedule anchors fluctuate:

• Mealtimes – Even if you’re just ordering takeout, sticking to designated mealtimes will help your kids maintain healthier eating habits. Sitting down and eating as a family is also a great way to open up communication channels regarding the move.

• Bedtimes – Becoming lax about bedtime will lead to your kids being tired and cranky. You’ll also need the hours after your kids go to bed to take care of moving details, so getting them in bed on a schedule will benefit the whole family.

• Allotted Screen Time – If you usually set limits on screen time, don’t neglect to enforce normal rules during the transition. A little leniency here and there is fine, but forgoing this discipline might start your transition with some bad habits.

#6 Start (Way) Ahead of Time

Even if you think you’ve allotted enough time to get ready for your big move, we can almost guarantee you should start earlier. Create a checklist as soon as you know you’re moving with due dates for each task, like finding a new doctor in Chicago or setting up an appointment at the DMV in Las Vegas. This will help you set up a clear timeline for everything you need to get done.

Moving with kids takes longer than you think, and the last thing you want to do is create a stressful and chaotic environment by not giving yourself enough time.

Trust Us, Your Move is Going to be Smooth 

While we can’t promise you aren’t going to encounter any bumps in the road (see tip #3), we can guarantee that if you follow the tips above, you’ll be setting up your whole family for a much smoother move.

Once you’re settled into your new home and your kids are happy in their new environment, you’ll be glad you took the plunge. Good luck on your big move!

The post 6 Tips to Having a Smooth Move with Your Kids appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Effective listening is a learned skill that requires patience and attention. In my experience, some of the most admired and respected leaders are those that are confident, understanding, and great listeners. We all feel a sense of joy and connectivity when someone remembers a fact about us or a moment in our lives—whether in your personal or professional relationships. In my experience, being an effective listener has literally saved my life when conquering the world’s tallest mountains in some of the harshest conditions on the planet.

My name is Bo Parfet and I am a seasoned investment professional and philanthropist by day and an avid adventurer and mountaineer by night. I have built successful businesses, helped small start-up organizations gain capital to elevate their business models, and helped investors establish well-rounded portfolios. My professional life has been built on my ability to listen to others and make connections based on my understanding of their needs and desires.

In my personal life, I have experienced some of the toughest physical and mental challenges in the world, reaching the peaks of the Seven Summits, completing research missions inside an active volcano, and navigating dangerous river rapids. I would have never been able to reach these accomplishments without the help of a team and without understanding the art of listening.

Listening is a quality that we should all strive to perfect. However, it is not a quality that comes easily or naturally to many. Meeting someone new, creating a professional relationship, or maintaining an existing personal relationship all require active listening to ensure the other person is not only heard but understood. Becoming a better listener will help improve these relationships and ensure successful outcomes. Here are five tips on becoming a better listener:

Be present. We live in a high-tech world where we are constantly being interrupted by our phones, computers, and watches. Being present means turning these distractions off. Put your phone and watch on “do not disturb”, maintain eye contact, and focus on what the other person is saying.

Don’t interject. When someone else is talking, try to let them finish. Perhaps you are listening so intently that you feel connected to something they are saying but save it until they are done. Interrupting a colleague’s presentation or a family member revealing news is distracting to them and they may lose concentration without being able to fully express their ideas or thoughts. Instead, use body language such as nodding your head and leaning in to express that you are listening and aware.

Ask at least one open-ended question. Listening is not simply a one-sided conversation. Find something in what the other person has said and ask them to elaborate. Asking specific questions about something another person has just shared will show that you were listening, and it will help you make a deeper connection to their story and/or experience.

Find a connection. As a leader, it is important for others to view you as “human”. After you have taken the time to listen to the other person, find something within their discussion that you can relate to. Listening builds deep, meaningful connections. These connections can lead to personal and professional success.

Follow up. One thing that is extremely easy yet meaningful, is following up. As you reflect on your day or week, take a few minutes to let others know that you appreciate them and the time you spent together. It can be as easy as sending a quick text message or email. This simple act will not only help you remember important facts about another person, it will help build your credibility as a listener and leader.

There are many things we can do each day to improve our listening skills and become effective and respected leaders in our industry. The simple acts I share above are just some of the ways I have built my personal and professional relationships. All any of us want in life is to be heard, and as a leader, it is your duty to grant that to all who you encounter.

The post Leading Through Listening: Bo Parfet’s Guide to Being a Better Listener appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

None of us ever want to think of being in a car collision, but unfortunately, accidents do happen, and the more prepared you are, the better. It’s much more preferable to know what to do and never have to use the knowledge, than to find yourself in a sticky situation, with no idea of how to handle it.

The legal side

As good a driver as you may be, not everyone is the same, and there may be times when an accident is caused by someone else who is perhaps not paying attention or driving unsafely. If you are injured in a car accident, it’s crucial that you try to figure out your next steps as soon as possible after the event. If you have been affected, speak to a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer.

First aid

The first and most important thing you need to do after an accident is to check yourself and anyone else in the car for injuries. If you are hurt, call 911, or ask someone else to do so, and if you are seriously injured, or have hurt your back or neck, try not to move until you’ve been checked over by a medical professional. You may have to administer some first aid if there are any cuts or lacerations, so make sure you have a basic first aid kit in your car at all times.

Make things safe

It is an offense not to stop at the scene of an accident, and it can also be dangerous to keep your engine running, so be sure to switch off your engine. Turn your hazard lights on, so that others around can see that you have stopped for a reason, and if you feel that your car isn’t in a safe place, get yourself and your passengers out (if you are able to do so) and stand somewhere safer while you wait for emergency personnel.

Stay calm

It might be easier said than done, but you will likely be a little shaken after an accident, and you may be feeling quite upset or angry. Try to take some deep breaths, and avoid losing your temper with the other driver, as that will only escalate an already stressful situation.

Gather information

You should swap information with any other drivers involved, including everyone’s names and addresses, insurance details, and any witnesses. Take photos of the cars and any damage or injuries if you can, and note down the make, model color, and license place details. It is better to have too much information than realize you’ve forgotten something after the fact, so take down as much as you can.

Even if you’ve just been in a small fender-bender, you should call the police. It’s legally required in some states, and it will also mean you have an official accident report which you may need for an insurance claim.

Drive safe, be prepared, and always stay calm.

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