You Have to Work Twice as Hard: Implications of Imposter Syndrome

Growing up I was told that you have to work twice as hard as others to become successful. My perfectionist tendencies often dictated long hours spent on homework assignments. In addition, I experienced sleepless nights worried about what grades I would receive on my report card. I was successful in school but I always compared myself to other students because of my desire to be the best.  Now I know that I was experiencing imposter syndrome.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Clinical psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes, first used the term “imposter phenomenon” in 1978 to describe individuals who think they don’t deserve success despite having ample evidence of accomplishments[1]. These individuals lack confidence that they can repeat past success and exert strenuous efforts to avoid being “discovered as a fraud”. The term “imposter syndrome” became more popular among academic researchers and the general public because it connected the phenomenon directly to individual dysfunction or behavior[1].

Imposter syndrome affects high achieving individuals and is linked to perfectionism, anxiety, burnout, and depression[1],[2].

Women and Imposter Syndrome

Women are more likely to experience it than men. Russell et al. published a study in January 2022 that evaluated the rate of imposter syndrome in twenty-three classes across nine osteopathic medical students[3]. The students were asked to provide their MCAT scores and undergraduate science GPA[1]. In addition, they answered eight questions from the Young Imposter Scale Questionnaire[1]. The study concluded that female students experience a high rate of imposter syndrome compared to males[1]. In addition, the study found that this occurrence is not correlated with previous high MCAT scores and undergraduate science GPA[1].

Race and Imposter Syndrome

Several studies have concluded that imposter syndrome is common among African, Asian, Latino/a, American college students[4]. These studies identified factors that predispose them to imposter syndrome such as lack of financial support, racial discrimination, and stress of being the first in their families to achieve higher education[4].  One study concluded that imposter syndrome, survivor guilt, and depression were highly correlated with African-American college students[5]. Some academic scholars believe that the assessments for imposter syndrome are inadequate for minorities because very few of them have been included in the samples to standardize these tests[5].

What are Institutions Doing to Mitigate Imposter Syndrome?

Institutions are focusing on representation and mentorship as tools to handle imposter syndrome. The Stanford Law School’s Law Scholars Institute purports that its’ curriculum for underrepresented sophomore and junior college students includes an organizational and leadership component that includes addressing imposter syndrome and implicit bias. A coaching and mentoring program for medical students has been implemented at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine Bridges Curriculum. The program has positively impacted medical students who frequently experience imposter syndrome. ATLAS Fellows Inc. is a non-profit organization that offers a career development program for underrepresented high school seniors interested in careers in the financial industry. The mentorship program offers training and workshops in various areas including imposter syndrome.

Tips for overcoming Imposter Syndrome

1.       Talk to a trusted friend or mentor.

Find someone who understands what you are going through to provide reassurance and sound advice.

2.       Turn to your network for guidance and support.

Isolation will only exacerbate the issue. Surround yourself with others who can empathize and provide suggestions and different perspectives.

3.       Challenge your doubts by writing down your achievements.

Writing your achievements down will allow you to visualize all that you have accomplished and equip you with proof to dismiss any perceived inadequacies.

4.       Avoid comparing yourself to others.

“By competing or comparing yourself with others, you impose a limit on your true potential.” – Nitin Namdeo

As high achievers, we strive tor reach our full potential. Don’t let the hurdle of comparison block your way.

[1] Feenstra, S., Begeny, C. T., Ryan, M. K., Rink, F. A., Stoker, J. I., & Jordan, J. (2020). Contextualizing the impostor “syndrome”. Frontiers in psychology, 3206.

[2] Weir, K. (2013). Feel like a fraud. Grad Psych Magazine, 11(4), 24.

[3] Shill-Russell, C., Russell, R. C., Daines, B., Clement, G., Carlson, J., Zapata, I., & Henderson, M. (2022). Imposter Syndrome Relation to Gender Across Osteopathic Medical Schools. Medical Science Educator, 1-7.

[4] Bravata, D. M., Madhusudhan, D. K., Boroff, M., & Cokley, K. O. (2020). Commentary: Prevalence, predictors, and treatment of imposter syndrome: A systematic review. Journal of Mental Health & Clinical Psychology, 4(3).

[5] Bravata, D. M., Watts, S. A., Keefer, A. L., Madhusudhan, D. K., Taylor, K. T., Clark, D. M., ... & Hagg, H. K. (2020). Prevalence, predictors, and treatment of impostor syndrome: a systematic review. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 35(4), 1252-1275.

The Journey to Happiness: It’s Not a Sprint. It’s a Marathon.

This week, I had a friend and my mother randomly ask me what will make me happy. I responded that good health, gratitude, peace, warm weather, and financial freedom will contribute to my happiness. I know from experience that happiness can elude me if I don’t consistently express gratitude for what is going well in my life. Happiness is subjective, but in general associated with increased employment opportunities, community involvement, social relationships, physical and mental health.

Happiness is considered so essential to mental health that institutions including Yale and Harvard have added classes about it to their undergraduate and MBA programs, respectively. The Yale course entitled “The Science of Well-Being” is currently offered for free online, and over 3 million people, including me, have registered for it. I’m only two days into the course; however, I have discovered my character strengths by taking a survey offered through the VIA Institute of Character. The course states that positive character strengths affect your mindset and behavior.

According to the Wall Street Journal, students of the Harvard MBA course, “Leadership and Happiness”, are taught to foster their teams’ happiness and their own. The course encourages students to focus on four areas (family, friends, meaningful work, faith or life philosophy). The instructor, Dr. Arthur Brooks, states balancing these areas are important in maintaining happiness. Students who have taken the course report they have become more empathetic to the needs of their team, focus more on the present than the future, and take more time to celebrate their accomplishments.

Sheldon & Lyubomirsky published a peer-reviewed article in March 2021 that challenges if happiness can be successfully pursued. The article evaluated three models of happiness: Eudaimonic Activity Model (EAM), Hedonic Adaptation Prevention Model (HAP), and Positive Activity Model (PAM). EAM  “specifies that the pursuit of happiness involves trying out different kinds of goals, values, behaviors, and activities, to determine which ones bring one satisfaction and happiness.” HAP states that happiness is sustained by finding different ways to appreciate what you already have (e.g., home, partner, job, family). PAM specifies that happiness is dependent on individuals’ culture and the frequency of positive activities. Sheldon & Lyubomirsky concluded that happiness can be pursued but it is not simple. People should create and maintain an environment for themselves which nurtures their happiness.

Timeboxing: Will it improve your time management?

What is Timeboxing?

Timeboxing is a technique that involves planning and allocating a fixed unit of time for tasks and stopping the task within the time frame. This technique allows you to be proactive on the amount of time spent on a task regardless of completion. Timeboxing was first introduced in 1991 by James Martin, author of the book Rapid Application Development, as a tool for Agile software development. He based the technique on Parkinson’s Law which states that “work expands to fill the time available for its completion.”

What tasks are suitable for timeboxing?

• Important tasks that you want to prioritize

• Tasks that you are not motivated to start

• Minor tasks that you keep forgetting

• Laborious or monotonous tasks

How do you timebox?

1.       List all of your tasks.

2.       Define goals for your tasks.

3.       For important tasks that require focus, allocate at least 1-2 hours.

4.       For hard tasks, allocate 20-30 minutes to make the task easier to manage.

5.       Start from your first task, and work your way down

6.       Stop when the allocated time is up.

7.       Take a break.

8.       Review what you've accomplished.

9.       Work on other time boxes in your schedule.

Advantages of Timeboxing

• Helps you identify your priorities

• Helps you set limits

  • Mitigates perfectionists’ tendencies to extend time for tasks

  • Reduces communication overload

• Gives you a comprehensive record of what you’ve accomplished

• Helps you feel more in control of your time

Disadvantages of Timeboxing

• Disrupts your train of thought or flow (Switching to a new task when you are deep in thought may cause frustration.)

• Rushes you to complete assignments that require high level quality

• You allocate too much or not enough time to complete an assignment

Timeboxing is not a “set it and forget it” technique. It requires you to constantly evaluate how much time you spend on tasks and make the appropriate time adjustments. Overall, timeboxing is a great technique to use to knock out all the tasks that lead you to achieving your goals.

Second act: Should you plan now for life after retirement?

Tom Brady has received numerous offers to start a career in sports broadcasting after announcing his retirement this week. While in the NFL, he started a clothing line, NFT platform, and a sports therapy center. Mr. Brady did not wait until after retirement to pursue other interests. You may think that it was easy for him to have additional streams of income because of his NFL salary. However, there are steps you can take to plan for life after retirement while you are working.

1.                   Evaluate your interests

Reflect on the interests you had in childhood. Take some time to write down all of your interests and research them.  

2.                   Explore your interests

If possible, volunteer or work part-time at organizations that align with your interests.

3.                   Get training

Taking online courses, obtaining industry certifications, or earning another degree are all ways to learn new skills to prepare for a second career.

4.                   Network

As the old saying goes, “Your network is your net worth”. Develop authentic relationships with those who are in the career you want to pursue. Find ways to add value to these relationships.

5.                   Be patient and persistent

“Just don’t give up what you’re trying to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong." — Ella Fitzgerald.”

Finding a second career is not easy and you may become discouraged if you don’t obtain it quickly. Don’t succumb to this feeling.  

If you are interested in having a second career, now is the time to plan for it. You will thank yourself later.

DAO: Business on the Blockchain

What is a DAO?

A Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) is an entity without governance from central leadership (i.e., CEO and board of directors). Decisions such as how money is raised and invested are voted on by a community of investors who use a specific set of rules that are enforced on the blockchain. The investors vote by using tokens that are given in exchange for money invested.

History of DAO

The first DAO, The DAO, was launched in April 2016 after raising about a hundred and fifty million dollars’ worth of Ethereum in exchange for a token called DAO. The goal of The DAO was to act as an investment firm, redistributing funds to profitable companies and projects. The organization’s tokens represented votes on where to invest. Ideally, profits would return to token holders, like a stock dividend, but outside of the regulated market. Unfortunately, investors didn’t obtain these profits. In June 2016, hackers stole a third of The DAOs funds. In 2017, the Security Exchange Commission released an investigation that found crypto tokens like The DAO’s should possibly face the same regulations as securities.

Types of DAOs

1.   AMM (automated market maker) DAOs

      AMM DAOs use smart contract protocols to facilitate decentralized financial services to consumers.

2.   Grant DAOs

The investor community donates funds into a grant pool and votes on allocating and distributing funds for DeFi

projects.

3.   Social DAOs

     These DAOs are developed to focus on a particular objective, such as preserving arts and culture

     or championing a charitable cause.

4.       Collector DAOs

        Acquires cultural collectables for its members that may include Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs).

5.       Venture (Investment) DAOs

Developed to level the playing field for beginning investors and allow investment in projects such as real estate

and sport teams.

6.       Entertainment DAOs

Creative projects such as books, television shows, and movies are funded and controlled by a group of investors.

DAO Advantages

1.       No single person is in charge of the decision making.

2.       Any DAO member can view the organization’s financial transactions.

3.       A requirement for joining a DAO is that each stakeholder understand its’ governance rules that are typically

encoded in the DAO smart contract.

The stakeholder works within the DAO to ensure that the members’ interests and incentives are aligned.  

DAO Disadvantages

1.       Any flaws in the DAO smart contract code increase hacking vulnerability.

2.       Difficult to update and fix bugs in the smart contract code due to the immutability of the blockchain.

3.       No legal framework.

Because DAOs can operate across multiple jurisdictions, any legal problems could result in lengthy legal battles.

Will DAOs take over Limited Liability Corporations (LLCs) and traditional venture capital organization (VCOs)?

Proponents state that DAOs provide more transparency and inclusiveness compared to LLCs and VCOs. However, critics state that DAOs likely will not overtake LLCs and VCOs because they don’t offer any legal protection and rely on popularity to fuel growth.

Buy Now Pay Later: An Old Idea Remixed

What is Buy Now Pay Later?

Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), also known as point-of sale loans, allow consumers to divide the cost of their purchases into installment payments that are often due every two weeks. BNPL has been around since the 1840s when makers of sewing machines, farm equipment, furniture, and pianos wanted to make these items affordable. Seventy-five percent of consumers that use BNPL are between the ages of 18-36.  BNPL allows consumers to shop online and some BNPL providers offer a virtual card for in-person shopping. Affirm, Zip, and Afterpay are the most popular BNPL providers.

How does BNPL differ from layaway?

Consumers receive items as soon as a payment is made; whereas, with layaway they are only received after paying the full amount.

Pros and Cons of BNPL

Pros

1.       Flexibility of using a debit card for transactions interest free.

2.       Reminders sent to consumers to make payments.

3.       Usually, no credit check required.

4.       Credit score is positively impacted by timely payments.

Cons

1.       Fees and interest charges occur with missed payments.

2.       Risk of overspending because purchasing may seem easier.

3.       Credit score is negatively impacted by missed payments.

4.       No reward system (e.g., cash back) for using the service as consumers would have with credit cards.

Does BNPL have growth potential?

According to a report by Insider Intelligence, by 2025, the BNPL industry could have $680 billion worth of transactions.  Visa and Mastercard have recently announced that they will provide BNPL services. In addition, APPEX Global, a BNPL provider, announced this month their plans to launch in the United States.

BNPL has significant growth potential because it offers consumers flexibility in making payments for purchases. However, consumers should be cognizant of BNPL’s benefits and risks to ensure their credit is not damaged.

Web 3.0: Is it the future of the internet?

The internet made its debut in the late 1990s via Web 1.0 which consisted of an assortment of non-interactive business and personal webpages. Web 2.0, the current version of the internet implemented in 2004, allows users to create and share content through social media platforms. As internet users have become more aware of their data being used without their permission, Web 3.0 may allow them to have more control of how it is used.

What is Web 3.0?

Web 3.0, is considered the “third generation of the internet”, that allows users to participate in the development and operation of internet protocols. For example, users could become shareholders of Web 3.0 which would allow them to vote on changes to Web 3.0. The phrase “Web 3.0” has been credited to two people:  John Markoff, a former New York Times journalist who used it in 2006 and to Gavin Wood, Ethereum’s co-founder, who coined it in 2014. Web 3.0 uses platforms developed on blockchain, cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and other technologies. DeFi (decentralized finance) is also included in Web 3.0.  Web 3.0 stores data on the blockchain in “blocks” or “nodes” distributed to an enormous network of computers.

Potential benefits of Web 3.0

1.       Data ownership would not be limited to a single entity.

2.       Users could join any network without giving up personal data (e.g., name, location, email address).

3.       Enhanced data security due to decentralization. Decentralization makes it harder for hackers to access large

loads of data.

4.       Users can monetize use of their data. Cirus Foundation, a data ownership initiative, allows users to earn

cryptocurrency in exchange for their data. Users’ data is captured after registering and downloading the Cirus

web extension on the Google Chrome browser.

Criticisms of Web 3.0

1.       Difficult to regulate.

Due to Web 3.0 being decentralized, some fear that cybercrimes, hate speech, online harassment, and spread of

child abuse will be difficult to control.  

2.       Owners of the blockchain networkers will only be early adopters and venture capitalists who will profit from

the innovation.

3.       Scalability: It is uncertain whether blockchain applications can scale to a level to overtake Web 2.0

infrastructure.

There are challenges in adopting any new technology but time and continued innovation will determine whether Web 3.0 will replace Web 2.0.

Non-Fungible Tokens: Do early adopters have an advantage?

From athletes, to music artists, celebrities, and social media influencers being early adopters and promoting non-fungible tokens (NFTs), its popularity has soared. But what are NFTs?

NFT

An NFT is a digital object (e.g., a drawing, animation, piece of music, photo or video with a certificate of authenticity) created by the blockchain technology. The phrase “non-fungible” means it cannot be forged or manipulated; equivalent to a one-of-a-kind trading card. "Quantum," an octagon-shaped animation NFT created in 2014 by New York artist Kevin McCoy, was first associated with an NFT-type certificate of ownership before the term “NFT” was coined. Quantum sold in June 2021 for $1.4 million. According to crypto data firm, Chainalyis, by the end of 2021, sales of NFTs exceeded $40 billion.

Use of NFTs

Campaign fundraisers

Instead of providing donors with campaign t-shirts and hats, political campaigns are offering NFTs.

Reserving electronic vehicles

VinFast, a global electric vehicle (EV) brand, has announced it will use NFTs as part of the EV “early bird” reservation process.

Video games

GameStop Corp. announced that it is launching a division to develop a marketplace for nonfungible tokens of “virtual videogame goods such as avatar outfits and weapons”.

Real estate transactions

ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, Voxel Architects, and Gabe Sierra (NFT collector and general contractor), are “introducing the first ever ‘MetaReal’ mansion that includes a real-world home and a virtual counterpart in the metaverse. Whoever buys the NFT will also own the physical home, set to be completed in Miami in the fourth quarter of 2022.

NFT obstacles

Legal concerns

Hester Peirce, Commissioner of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, warned that selling fractions of NFTs could be illegal because selling fractions would potentially create an investment product that may require regulation.

Hacking

On December 21, 2021, scammers obtained over one million dollars’ worth of cryptocurrency by convincing Discord chat platform community members of Monkey Kingdom and Fractal, respectively, to buy a limited edition NFT.

High energy usage

Joanie Lemercier, a French artist, discovered that the sale of six NFTs of his artwork consumed 8.7 megawatt-hours of energy – equivalent to two years’ worth of energy use in his studio.

Do early adopters have an advantage?

Most early adopters of NFTs may have bragging rights as being the first to use the NFT applications. Music artist, digital artists, athletes, and celebrities may have the greatest financial advantage from selling NFTs.

F is for Finance: Should public schools mandate financial literacy education?

Starting this year, Ohio public high school students are required to take a financial literacy course to graduate. Senate Bill 1 was signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine on October 28, 2021. Similar bills to mandate a financial literacy course were proposed in 2015, 2017, and 2020; however, did not receive bipartisan support. Last year, Ohio joined 25 other states that initiated personal finance education legislation.

Why should personal finance education be taught in schools?

Some parents are uncomfortable discussing personal finances at home. In 2017, a T. Rowe Price Survey observed that 69% of parents were hesitant about discussing financial matters with their kids. Personal finance education teaches students about banking, debit and credit cards, mortgages, investments, payday lending, rent-to-own products, credit reports, credit scores, etc. Acquiring this knowledge may prevent students from making financial decisions that lead to years of debt.

How effective is personal finance education?

MoneyRates.com conducted a study to measure how personal finance education programs at state-funded high schools improve financial behavior. The study divided the 50 states and the District of Columbia into two groups: those with a personal finance coursework requirement and those without. To assess the financial behavior of each group, the study evaluated average credit card balances and personal bankruptcy rates. The study found on average that people in states that have a personal finance coursework requirement had less credit card debt than people in states without the requirement. The first study result is promising; however, the second study result is not. Average personal bankruptcy rates were higher in states with a personal finance coursework requirement than in those states without it.

How can personal finance education programs become more successful?

1.     Provide educators with resources to implement personal finance education programs.

2.     Compare the financial education curriculum in each state against states with successful personal finance education programs and modify the curriculum as needed.

3.     Advocate for personal finance education programs in public high schools in states without them.  

Could DeFi make banks and credit unions and obsolete?

“My credit union charged me 75 cents for looking at my balance at the ATM,” my mother said in disbelief. Although she rarely withdraws money from ATMs, she thought that no ATM fees were one of the credit union benefits. My mother has always touted the benefits (e.g., higher rates on saving accounts and lower interest rates on car loans) of using her credit union over commercial banks. With the innovation in digital financial platforms that make accessing money simpler, could she be persuaded to use DeFi?

What is DeFi?

DeFi, an acronym for decentralized finance, was created in 2018 by entrepreneurs and Ethereum developers. It gives you responsibility for your money (i.e., deposits, withdrawals, merchant transactions) instead of relying on a credit union or bank. In addition, DeFi, by using blockchain technology, permits peer-to-peer borrowing/lending, currency exchange, and betting. The benefits of using DeFi come with some risks including cyberattacks, software bugs, and network congestion. These risks could lead to unsuccessful transactions and higher transaction fees which would convince more risk adverse consumers, like my mother, to maintain their finances at a credit union or a commercial bank.

Benefits of Credit Unions and Banks

-       Banks and Credit Unions insure your money up to $250,000.

-       Both banks and credit unions offer dividends. Educators Credit Union announced that by the end of 2021 it will have paid 4.9 million to its members.

Credit unions and banks are migrating to digital financial transactions

Credit unions and banks are adapting to change by investing in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Kinecta Credit Union is collaborating with Constellation Digital Partners to create an open banking platform that will allow financial technology firms to offer services to its members. Customers Bank has launched a real-time blockchain payment platform for cryptocurrency and digital assets.

What would make DeFi more appealing to consumers?

 DeFi would be more appealing to consumers if it provided the following:

1.     Services offered through corporate entities within a regulatory structure.  

2.     Cybersecurity insurance to mitigate hacks.

3.     Widely distributed consumer friendly education on its pros and cons.

Epigenetic memory: Can trauma and disease be passed to future generations?

As we gather with our family during the holiday season, we may hear expressions like: “You look just like your mother” or “You look just like your father”. These expressions are common and accepted because we know that we inherit genes from our parents that affect our physical appearance. Have you ever wondered why both you and your parents tend to be fearful or pessimistic about situations? The rationale could be that it is because you watched your parents worry about various challenges while growing up. However, this tendency toward pessimism could be a result of epigenetic memory.

Epigenetic memory is an inheritable change in genes or behavior caused by a prior formative or environmental stimulus.  There are several studies that suggest that trauma and disease can be passed to future generations through epigenetics. One example of trauma and disease being passed down, is a study of pregnant women impacted by the Dutch Hunger Winter famine in the Netherlands from 1944 to 1945. The women gave birth to children who later in their adult lives experienced above average rates of obesity, diabetes, and schizophrenia. The study results indicated that the pregnant women experienced epigenetic changes that were passed to their offspring.

It has been reported that epigenetic memory can change over time with diet and lifestyle modifications. For example, smoking alters the epigenetic structure of the lung cells and can eventually cause cancer. The field of epigenetics is relatively new and more research needs to be done on epigenetic memory to fully support its claims.

Cybersecurity Saturday: Defense against Grinch bots

Have you ever clicked on a retail website and prompted to verify if you were a human? After you verified that you were a human, were you then asked to click on all the boxes showing traffic lights, a crosswalk or, cars? If you answered yes to either question, you have taken a reCAPTCHA test. CAPTCHA is an acronym for “Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart “. The “re” prefix at the beginning of the acronym represents the revised Google version of this test.

CAPTCHA is used to defend against automated bots, software that is often used to acquire online items. If online stores don’t have a defense against bots, they can decimate inventory before retail customers can make purchases. Grinch bots, automated bots that are designed to acquire high-demand items for resell on alternative websites, have increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the supply chain crisis. For example, one consumer stated that $950 was the lowest price seen online for a Playstation5 gaming console that usually retails for $500.

Defending against automated bots and Grinchbots are constant challenges faced by online retail businesses. To combat the bots, on November 29, 2021, Representative Paul Tonko (D-NY), Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) Congress, introduced The Stopping Grinch Bots Act.

The Stopping Grinch Bots Act would:

1. Prohibit manipulative technical practices that allow bad actors to use bots to circumvent control measures designed to protect real consumers;

2. Make it illegal under the Federal Trade Commission Act to knowingly circumvent a security measure, access control system, or other technological control or measure on an Internet website or online service to maintain the integrity of posted online purchasing order rules for products or services, including toys and other retail products; and further make it illegal to sell or offer to sell any product or service obtained in this manner; and

3. Allow the Federal Trade Commission and state Attorneys General to treat these abusive workarounds as prohibited unfair or deceptive acts or practices, and take legal action against the bad actors.

The list below provides other suggestions for online businesses to defend against automated bots.

1.      Stay abreast of bot trends.

2.       Invest in a bot management system.

3.      Check online content, products, and services quarterly for vulnerabilities.

Holiday Favorites Saturday: Eat, Drink, and be Merry

The holiday season is filled with plenty of food, drinks, and memories. When I was five-years old, I remember my mother telling me to leave cookies and milk for Santa Claus. I was awestruck when I woke up the next morning and saw that the cookies and milk had been consumed and a note left by the cookie plate which said “Thank You, Shani!”.  Also, during the holiday season, my mother and grandmother would have their refrigerators stocked with Eggnog. I never liked the taste of it so they didn’t have to worry about sharing it with me. Over the years, I have discovered plenty of food and drinks that I have enjoyed during the holiday season.

Food

1.      Mixed Greens

If I’m in Tennessee during the holidays, I always get fresh collard, turnip, and mustard greens from H.G. Hills. I clean, chop and season the greens to perfection. The aroma of the greens lures my family closer to the kitchen in anticipation of partaking in them. I feel like I’m the VIP of the holiday dinners.

2.      Ham

I don’t indulge in much meat very often. However, during the holidays, I like to have a few slices of my mother’s brown sugar baked ham with pineapple.

3.      Sweet Dinner Rolls

I have only succeeded once in making homemade sweet dinner rolls like my grandmother. Most of my attempts resulted in flatbread instead of rolls. Most of the time, I rely on Sister Schubert’s Dinner Rolls to provide the consistency and taste I’m looking for.

4.      Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie has been a staple desert that I have prepared during my family holiday dinners. I have tried pumpkin pie but it does not compare to the taste of sweet potato pie.

Sweet Potato Pie

5.      Apple and Pear Cobbler

On Thanksgiving, I tried a recipe for apple and pear cobbler and it was a family hit! I reduced the amount of sugar as recommended in the recipe reviews and added a little ginger powder.

Apple and Pear Cobbler

Drinks

1.      Dark Red Sorrel

Dark red sorrel can be consumed year-round; however, it is extremely popular during the holidays due to the spicy flavors.

2.      Apple Ginger Juice

I can drink apple ginger juice hot or cold during the holiday season.

3.      Coquito

One of my friends introduced me to coquito about seven years ago. Coquito, also known as Puerto Rican Eggnog, is made with coconut milk, evaporated milk, sweet condensed milk, rum and spices. I have only had it a few times but the delicious coconut flavor is unforgettable.

What are your favorite foods and drinks for the holidays?

Cybersecurity Saturday: Best practices for holiday traveling and shopping

Traveling and shopping are considered traditional activities during the holiday season. However, if you are not vigilant, these traditions can create painful memories. Recently, someone I know had to close a debit card account while traveling due to fraudulent charges made on the card. In 2020, Cyber Monday was the day with the highest percent of fraudulent e-commerce transactions[1]. The lists below provide preventative measures to protect your personal and financial information while traveling and/or shopping this holiday season.

Traveling

1.      Use a credit card instead of a debit card.

If fraudulent charges are made on your credit card, you can notify the credit card company immediately to resolve the issue. However, if fraudulent charges are made on your debit card, the money comes out of your banking account and it could take days or weeks for the money to return to your account.

2.      Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots.

Using a VPN will help secure your data while using public Wi-Fi[2].

3.      Use a power outlet to charge your phone instead of a public charging station.

Malware that can steal your passwords and personal information can be downloaded on the USB port[3].

4.      Back up your files and personal information.

In case your phone or laptop is stolen, you will have all of your important files[3].

5.      Update your operating systems.

Updates to operating system repair vulnerabilities in the system to prevent known cyberattacks[3].

Shopping

1.      Avoid reusing passwords or usernames on websites.

Don’t use passwords or usernames on websites that are connected to your medical and financial information[4]. Use a password manager to store your passwords and user names.

2.      Review the details of your online transactions.

Look at the shipping notices and tracking information4. If the retailer doesn’t provide you with this information, contact your credit card company immediately to cancel transaction[4].

3.      Only use https sites.

When making online purchases, ensure that the website begins with “https” to have enhanced protection for online transactions[5].

4.      Don’t click on links or download attachments in emails unless you are sure of the source.

Clicking on links and downloading attachments can expose your device to viruses[6].

5.      Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your apps and other online accounts.

Using a password, pin, and/or fingerprint recognition, can prevent your accounts from being hacked[6].
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[1] Holiday shopping season fraud stats revealed. (2020, December 04). Retrieved from https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2020/12/04/holiday-shopping-season-fraud-stats-revealed/

[2] Whitmore, C. (2021, November 24). Does a VPN protect you on public Wi-Fi? NordVPN® https://nordvpn.com/blog/securing-public-wi-fi/

[3] McNicholl-Carter, D. (2021, November 17). Traveling for the holidays? Here's how to protect yourself from a cyber attack. CBS8. https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/national/ways-to-protect-yourself-from-a-cyber-attack/509-698a119b-ae73-4609-9770-1010a21e09ce

[4] NW Credit Unions Offer 10 Tips For Holiday Shopping Securely Online. KTVZ. Retrieved from https://ktvz.com/community/community-billboard/2021/11/22/credit-unions-offer-10-tips-for-holiday-shopping-securely-online/

[5] Carson, J. (2021, November 27). How To Be CyberSmart This Holiday Season. CPO Magazine. https://www.cpomagazine.com/cyber-security/how-to-be-cybersmart-this-holiday-shopping-season/

[6] Holiday Online Shopping. CISA. Retrieved from https://www.cisa.gov/shop-safely

Culture Saturday: Discover something new

What is culture?

The Cambridge Dictionary defines culture as: “the way of life, especially the general customs and beliefs, of a particular group of people at a particular time[1].” My definition of culture is the food, fashions, beliefs, and language of a group of people experiencing the same circumstances. Culture can be objective and subjective. Objective culture is defined as: The tangible aspects of culture such as food, costumes and outfits, and even the names people give to things[2]. It is typically found in the form of practices (e.g., ways of talking or walking), objects, and ritual or religious objects (material culture)2. Subjective culture is defined as: Any cultural aspect that is not tangible, such as ideology, values, and social role2.

While on vacation, I experience the objective culture by exploring the local culture of whatever state or country I visit. This exploration includes dining in local restaurants, visiting museums and historical sites, and taking plenty of pictures. Due to the pandemic, my traveling has slowed down; however, on the weekends, I like to think of ways I can become more cultured. In addition to traveling, listed below are a few things that I have done and you can try to contribute to your culture awareness.

1.       Study a foreign language.

I have studied Spanish for six years. Am I proficient? No. But each time, I study it, I feel like I am increasing my knowledge.

2.       Read about another religion.

I am currently reading Bhagavad Gita (As It Is) that is studied by those who practice Hinduism. I find that reading about another religion helps you to better understand the beliefs of another ethnic group.

3.       Try food from different cultures.

I love purchasing Asian vegetables from the international market and trying recipes that include them.

4.       Become friends with others of a different cultural background.

I have learned about Puerto Rican and Vietnamese culture through my friends.

5.       Attend cultural festivals.

This year I attended two Caribbean festivals that allowed me to experience the food and music of various Caribbean islands 

How have you improved your culture awareness?

[1] McIntosh, C. (2021). Culture. In Rundell, J. & Wedgeworth, L. (Eds.) Cambridge Dictionary. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/culture

[2] Yousof, A. K., & Abousamra, N. (2019). The future of digital game-based learning (DGBL) in shaping intercultural communication competency. In Critical Issues Impacting Science, Technology, Society (STS), and Our Future (pp. 81-110). IGI Global.

Soul Saturday: Connecting with yourself

You may have already seen store displays of Christmas apparel, decorations, and gifts to let us know that we are quickly approaching the holiday season. Before we begin our holiday routines and splurges, it is important to reflect on what truly brings us joy. This week as I was perusing the Christmas gift section at Kohl’s, I picked up a reflection journal. I have had other journals before that were only used a handful of times before collecting dust on my bookshelf. I thought that I should not waste my money on this journal and place it back on the store shelf; however, the colorful cover enticed me.

I flipped through the pages and saw that each page had a writing prompt and a quote to inspire you to write your thoughts. I figured purchasing this journal would serve three purposes: 1) It will support my writing routine 2) It will help me get over the occasional writer’s block and 3) It will allow me to reflect and express gratitude for each day. If writing in a journal is not your favorite way to connect with yourself, listed below are other ways for you to tune into your needs.

1. Sit in silence.

This may sound odd or boring, but I find that when I sit in silence, ideas and solutions come to me easier than when I’m preoccupied.

2. Move your body with intention.

Practice yoga, dance, or stretch your body to your personal comfort level to release stress or energize yourself to accomplish your daily goals.

3. Read something inspirational and spiritual.

Whether it is reading the Bible or something from your favorite spiritual author, you will find reassurance and strength to continue your journey.

4. Eat healthy meals.

It may sound cliché to say “you are what you eat”, I notice that whenever I eat junk food my energy level decreases. However, when I eat a healthy meal, I feel motivated to do things that will bring me closer to my goals.

5. Write down your goals.

I have heard the expression: “Writing it down and making it plain” and googled it as I was writing this blog post. This expression comes from the Bible in Habakkuk 2:2.

“Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.” My interpretation of this scripture is that once you connect with yourself and write down your goals in a comprehensive way, you will be able to execute them.

What are other ways that you connect with yourself?

Reflection Journal

Dancing Saturday: Benefits of Dance

Dancing Saturday: Benefits of Dance

Ballet, jazz, modern, liturgical, tango, foxtrot, waltz, cha-cha, meringue, hip-hop, salsa, and bachata are all forms of dance that I have tried and enjoyed. Currently, I am learning salsa and bachata and have joined the respective dance teams offered by my dance company. Participating in dance classes, dance team practices, and dance performances my weekly schedule is busy but enjoyable. Dancing for me is a stress reliever, creativity booster, and a fantastic workout. Listed below are five benefits of dance.

1.       Dance improves your mood.

In a study published by McKenzie et al., the researchers found that students participating in a dance class reported a better mood than students who did not participate[1].

2.       Dance improves your cognitive function.

Learning to dance rewires the neural pathways in your brain and enhances decision making skills[2].

3.       Dance improves balance and strength.

Over time, a dance regimen improves balance and strength[3]. Regardless of age, we all need to maintain our stability and strength.

4.       Dance is inclusive.

No matter your ethnic background or ability if you have a body, you can move!

5.       Dance is social.

You can meet people and make new friends while on the dance floor.

Dance is universal and has physical and mental benefits. Whether you dance alone or in a group, you will not regret the time you spent moving your body.

[1] McKenzie, K., Bowes, R., & Murray, K. (2021). Effects of dance on mood and potential of dance as a mental health intervention. Mental Health Practice, 24(3).

[2] Coan, E. (2021). How Being a Dance Major Will Help Me Be a Better Doctor. Dance Major Journal, 9(1).

[3] Stawicki, P., Wareńczak, A., & Lisiński, P. (2021). Does Regular Dancing Improve Static Balance?. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(10), 5056.

Side Hustle Saturday

When I think of the phrase “Side Hustle”, I imagine someone allocating time before or after working a full-time job and on the weekend to build a business. Does this image look glamorous? Oftentimes on social media, it does; however, it requires dedication and consistency.  Can a side hustle be rewarding? Yes! Many people have turned their side hustles into full time businesses. If you have ever thought about pursuing a side hustle, listed below are links to a few resources that have inspired me.

Earn Your Leisure

https://www.earnyourleisure.com/

Earn Your Leisure is a platform that provides helpful advice on investing, real estate, and entrepreneurship through their podcasts, YouTube channel, and paid educational platform (EYL University).

Craig Ballantyne

https://www.craigballantyne.com/

Craig Ballantyne is an entrepreneur who provides business tips for aspiring and seasoned business owners to manage their time while building their businesses.

James Altucher

https://jamesaltucher.com/

James Altucher is an entrepreneur who has written several books on how to test ideas that could turn into businesses.

Side Hustle Nation

https://www.sidehustlenation.com/

Side Hustle Nation is a platform that provides tips on how to start a side hustle and provides stories of individuals who have successful side hustles.

Do you have recommendations for side hustles? Let me know in the comments section!

SAD Saturday

When I don’t have plans, I have no desire to leave home on cloudy days. If the cloudy day occurs on a Saturday, it gives me an incentive to stay in. On sunny days, the sun shining through my window entices me to get up and start my day. During this time of year in the Mid-Atlantic, there are more cloudy days than sunny. The cloudy days can contribute to a depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD usually occurs in the fall and lasts until the beginning of the spring. The symptoms of SAD are[1]:

• Sadness

• Anxiety

• Carbohydrate cravings

• Extreme fatigue

• Suicidal thoughts

• Inability to focus

• Excessive sleeping

• Disinterest in social activities

• Suicidal thoughts

If you have any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare professional who will give you the proper diagnosis.

[1] Cleveland Clinic. (2020, December 07). Seasonal Depression. Retrieved October 23, 2021.

It’s Saturday!

There are not many Saturdays that I have the luxury to lounge in my bed. However, when I do I stay in bed until my body hurts. You would think I would be catching up on sleep or watching television. No. I’m playing a brain game on my phone and afterwards logging in to my Spanish language learning website for a 30 minute practice session. Then, I’m scrolling Instagram watching, and laughing at video sketches from my favorite comedians, getting inspired to try a new hairstyle, or eventually travel internationally again. After I have scrolled social media to my heart’s content, I drag myself out of bed to wash clothes and work around the house to prepare for the upcoming week.

Oftentimes I feel guilty by wasting so much time on these Saturday mornings. The guiltiness is because I think about how much I could have accomplished if I only got out of bed earlier. How do you spend your Saturdays when you have nothing planned? Do you feel guilty about not being productive or is it your time to recharge for the upcoming week?