9 Ways to Become More Articulate
Do you have a goal to become more articulate this year? This article will give you nine actions to take to become more articulate.
Often, we make New Year’s Resolutions to improve our physical, mental, and emotional health. In addition, we resolve to improve our professional skills. Public speaking is a skill that requires consistent effort and is refined by becoming more articulate. An articulate person can speak fluently and effectively. Becoming articulate can help you acquire a promotion, contract, or business deal. Below are nine ways that will help you become more articulate.
1. Read aloud.
Reading aloud helps you pay attention to your tone and emphasize words that provide impact in written material. In addition, it will make you comfortable hearing your voice because some people do not like the sound of their own voice.
2. Memorize poems and passages of religious texts.
Memorizing poems and passages of religious texts helps you improve your memory, language skills, and vocabulary skills. Furthermore, your confidence and conviction are improved which will be evident to your audience.
3. When in doubt, write it out.
Writing will organize your thoughts before you speak. Reading and editing your written work before a presentation will help you refine your thoughts.
4. Exude confidence.
Having confidence by using good posture and body language while you speak will help the audience connect with your message.
5. Tailor your presentation to your audience.
Know your audience before your presentation and use words and phrases that they can understand.
6. Record yourself speaking.
Recording and then listening to yourself speaking can help you hear filler words (ums, uhs, sos, you knows, etc.) and the pace (too fast or too slow) in which you deliver your presentation.
7. Practice pronouncing difficult words and/or phrases.
Practicing will help you gain confidence and mitigate any stumbling over your words due to nervousness.
8. Listen to professional speakers.
By listening to TED talks and/or your favorite inspirational/motivational speaker, you will observe their body language, pace, tone, and pitch and apply to your presentations.
9. Join a public speaking organization.
Joining a public speaking organization such as Toastmasters International will allow you to practice your articulation and receive feedback from other speakers to improve.
From Obscurity to Spotlight: Effective Tactics for Creatives to Get Discovered
Getting discovered as a creative is a daunting task. This article provides insights on how to expand your presence online and offline.
In an age where talent is abundant and technology has paved the way for diversified platforms, standing out as a creative—be it as a fashion designer, artist, or maker—can seem like an uphill task. Yet, within this vast landscape lie numerous opportunities for those who know how to strategically position themselves. Here are eight potential strategies to explore, each presenting a viable avenue towards getting discovered in the bustling creative scene.
Building a Robust Online Presence
In the digital age, having an online presence is essential. For creatives, a professional website can act as a centralized portfolio where potential clients or collaborators can view your work. Pair this with an engaging presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or TikTok, and you've got a combination that keeps followers interested while attracting new eyes to your work.
Actively Participate in Industry Events
Networking continues to be a cornerstone of professional growth. Attending events—whether fashion shows, art exhibitions, or craft fairs—not only keeps you updated with industry trends but also opens up opportunities for interaction with industry professionals and potential customers, thereby expanding your reach.
Joining Competitions
Competitions offer a unique stage for artists to gain visibility and recognition. Regardless of the scale—be it local or international—contests related to your field of creativity serve as an ideal canvas to exhibit your finest work, allowing you to stand out in the community of your peers. In this spotlight, your distinct voice and style can echo further, reaching wider audiences.
Collaborating with Other Creatives
Collaboration emerges as a potent catalyst, stimulating both creativity and exposure. When you join forces with other creatives on innovative projects, it brings your work to fresh audiences and nurtures a network within the artistic community. This synergy amplifies your visibility and fosters enduring relationships that can be instrumental in your creative journey.
Showcasing Your Work at Local Events and Shows
Local art exhibits, design bazaars, or pop-up shops serve as potent platforms for enhancing your visibility within your community. Engaging with attendees and garnering their feedback helps in the iterative process of refining your work, thereby broadening your consumer network. These interactions are integral steps towards attaining broader recognition in the creative realm.
Engaging in Industry-Specific Workshops or Courses
The dynamic nature of the art and design landscape necessitates perpetual learning as a vital element for personal and professional evolution. Participation in workshops or courses tailored to your craft not only augments your skill set but also opens up avenues for networking. These educational experiences often lead to beneficial alliances or mentorships, further enriching your creative journey.
Generating Leads Through Content Syndication
Considering lead generation might seem overwhelming; however, here's a possible solution: content syndication. By disseminating your work, expertise, and insights across various platforms and publications, you not only exhibit your talents and knowledge but also magnetize potential clients and followers towards your creative pursuits. In the process, you build an authoritative presence in your field and facilitate a broader conversation about your work, further amplifying your reach and impact.
Utilizing Social Media for Customer Engagement
Social media platforms transcend mere display spaces for artistry, evolving into strategic channels for interacting with potential customers. Effective engagement methods include timely responses to inquiries, sharing insightful behind-the-scenes content, and executing well-targeted ad campaigns. These techniques foster audience growth and cultivate a community around your creative work.
Navigating the world of art, design, and creativity can be challenging, especially when aiming for discovery and recognition. However, by following strategies like attending industry events, submitting work to competitions, showcasing work locally, and generating leads through content syndication, creatives can enhance their visibility, establish valuable connections, and ultimately increase their chances of getting discovered in this competitive landscape. Remember, each creative journey is unique, and the effectiveness of these strategies may vary. Keep exploring, stay consistent, and let your creative light shine.
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Written by: Jennifer McGregor, jmcgreg@publichealthlibrary.org
“Jennifer McGregor is a pre-med student, who enjoys writing about health and medical topics and providing reliable health and medical resources. Together with a friend, she co-created PublicHealthLibrary.org as a way to push reputable information on health topics to the forefront, making them easier and quicker to find.”
Using Everyday Technology to Lead a Greener, More Sustainable Life
This article discusses eight practical steps to take to lead a more sustainable lifestyle.
In today's world, where the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent, taking steps towards a more sustainable lifestyle has never been more important. But it doesn't have to involve drastic changes or expensive alternatives. Many everyday technologies can help us live greener and reduce our carbon footprint, such as shopping for eco-friendly everyday essentials. From installing smart thermostats to switching to energy-efficient appliances, this article from SJS writes will explore more ways you can use technology to live a more sustainable life.
Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a device that allows you to control your home's heating and cooling remotely using your smartphone or voice assistant. By being able to adjust your home's temperature from anywhere, you can optimize energy use, avoid overuse of heating or cooling, and reduce energy consumption. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Energy, using a programmable thermostat can save you up to 15% on your heating and cooling bills.
Use LED Bulbs
LED bulbs are another technology that can help you reduce your energy usage. They consume up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Although they may have a higher upfront cost, their long lifespan makes them more cost-effective over time. They also emit less heat, which can also help you save on air conditioning costs.
Start a Green Business
Starting an eco-friendly business is an impactful way to contribute to a sustainable future while capitalizing on the growing demand for green products and services. From renewable energy solutions to sustainable fashion, and from organic farming to green construction, there are countless green business ideas to explore. With the aid of green technology, these businesses can operate more efficiently, reduce their environmental footprint, and meet the needs of increasingly eco-conscious consumers. It's a great way to align your entrepreneurial ambitions with the goal of environmental conservation.
Switch to Streaming Services
Streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume entertainment. But did you know that they can also help you reduce your carbon footprint? By avoiding physical discs or tapes, streaming services save energy and reduce waste. They also reduce the number of trips you need to take to the video store or theater, which in turn reduces your fuel consumption.
Upgrade Your Appliances
Updating your appliances for energy efficiency is a smart move towards a greener and more cost-effective home. Energy-efficient appliances consume less electricity, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money on energy bills in the long run. Consider replacing old appliances with ENERGY STAR certified ones, as they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. Additionally, installing a range hood in your kitchen can contribute to a healthier home environment. Range hoods help remove smoke, grease, and odors, improving air quality and making your cooking experience more pleasant. Remember, every step towards energy efficiency not only benefits your wallet but also our planet.
Switch to an Electric Car
If you're in the market for a new car, consider switching to an electric car. Electric cars produce zero emissions and are becoming more affordable and accessible. Although they may have a higher upfront cost than traditional gas-powered cars, electric cars can save you money over time through reduced fuel costs and tax incentives. They also require less maintenance and often have a longer lifespan.
Embrace Greener Exercise
Adjusting your exercise habits can be a practical way to reduce your carbon footprint. For instance, instead of driving to the gym to walk on a treadmill, consider walking in your local area. Utilizing a walk score map can help you find the best and safest places to walk near your home. This not only eliminates the emissions produced by your car but also allows you to enjoy the outdoors and connect with your community. In addition, given that walking is a low-impact exercise, it's suitable for all fitness levels. So, not only do you get to stay fit, but you also contribute to a healthier planet.
Make Your Own Natural Cleaners
Making your own natural cleaners is an excellent way to reduce the number of harsh chemicals in our environment. Many commercial cleaning products contain substances that can be harmful to both our health and the ecosystem. By creating your own cleaners using simple, natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, you can effectively clean your home while minimizing your ecological footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also reduces exposure to potentially harmful substances for you and your family. Plus, it's often a more cost-effective solution compared to buying store-bought cleaners.
Living a more sustainable lifestyle doesn't have to be difficult or costly. By making use of everyday technologies like smart thermostats and LED bulbs, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills. Also consider how your business and exercise habits can become greener. Small changes can have a big impact, and by taking steps towards a more sustainable lifestyle, you're helping to create a better world for future generations.
For writing assistance and research services, visit SJS writes today!
Written by: Jennifer McGregor, jmcgreg@publichealthlibrary.org
“Jennifer McGregor is a pre-med student, who enjoys writing about health and medical topics and providing reliable health and medical resources. Together with a friend, she co-created PublicHealthLibrary.org as a way to push reputable information on health topics to the forefront, making them easier and quicker to find.”
10 Tips to Protect Your Career from Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This post provides insights to mitigate the impact of automation and AI on employees’ careers.
Automation and artificial intelligence have taken over routine tasks including customer service and inventory stocking. However, people are still needed to monitor and provide context to the new technology. Below are tips to empower you to keep developing your career.
1. Get training on automation and AI from tech schools.
Getting training from tech schools instead of traditional four-year colleges may be the key for young adults gaining entry-level positions.
2. Take all the automation and artificial intelligence training offered at your job.
Taking training offered at your job will update your skills and improve your productivity. Knowledge is power.
3. Present context-based ideas.
ChatGPT isn’t able to place the information retrieved into context. Humans are needed to provide perspective for this information.
4. Improve your public speaking skills.
ChatGPT can help you write your speech; however, it can’t present the speech to an audience and interpret body language as humans can. Public speaking is still a vital skill that will be needed despite the advances in AI.
By enhancing your curiosity, you can learn new subjects quickly which will allow you to optimize your productivity while using AI.
Exposing yourself to new people, events, books, movies, etc. will allow you to process and connect new ideas that can make you an asset to your organization.
7. Grow your emotional intelligence.
With automation and artificial intelligence playing important roles in the workplace, leaders need emotional intelligence to effectively communicate the impacts of these roles with employees and stakeholders.
8. Improve your critical thinking.
AI provides a plethora of information that needs to be interpreted. In the article, Six essential human skills to stay competitive in the age of AI, Bernard Marr, provides the following questions to ask yourself to improve critical thinking while reading information.
· What is the main argument?
· What evidence is being presented?
· Are there any flaws in the argument or evidence?
· Are there any alternative explanations or viewpoints?
9. Be flexible.
Quickly adopting to new technologies and getting out of your comfort zone are essential to navigating AI. Flexibility also is needed when automation is not functioning and you may have to manual perform a task at your job.
Currently, ChatGPT provides basic information on topics. Subject matter experts are still needed to provide insights.
What does it mean to be a strong woman?
In honor of the last week of Women History Month, this post reflects on what it means to be a strong woman.
You can make it through this. You are strong. A friend and colleague said this to encourage me while I was seeking another job to escape a toxic work environment. At that time, I didn’t feel strong. I wanted to quit my job and live off my savings for a while until I figured out my next move. However, I didn’t because I value financial security. I knew I would feel more stress and discomfort if I didn’t find a position at a time I designated in my mind.
Over the years, I have pondered what it means to be a strong woman, and I have come up with the following:
1. A strong woman knows her worth.
She may have to endure discomfort until she gets what she deserves, but she doesn’t settle.
2. A strong woman has great professional and personal networks.
She nurtures these networks and they provide assistance and encouragement to her.
3. A strong woman practices self-care.
She takes time to ensure that her mental, physical, and spiritual health are maintained.
4. A strong woman asks for help.
She releases her pride and asks others for help.
5. A strong woman is optimistic.
She may have faced many obstacles and made bad decisions; however, she knows that her past does not govern her success in the future.
Sleep when the baby sleeps
The author of this post gives her perspective on three pieces of advice given to new mothers about their infants.
Get as much rest as you can while your baby is sleeping. This sounds like practical advice to give to new mothers; however, is this advice always feasible? As a new mother, I have only applied this well-meaning advice after I have finished urgent tasks. My daughter usually takes 5–30-minute naps during the day. A quick nap may be rejuvenating to some people, but it makes me realize how tired I am. Sometimes she sleeps for two hours during the day and I can prepare formula, do housework, and schedule appointments.
Don’t spoil the baby by picking the baby up too much. I heard this advice many years before having my daughter and thought that it was true. However, after reading the parenting book Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy, I realize that infants need to be picked up and held often to nurture their development.
Sometimes you have to let some things go. This advice is difficult to take when you are accustomed to doing most things yourself. I took “baby steps” on outsourcing chores two years ago when I hired a lawn care company to maintain my small yard. I know when my maternity leave ends, I will have to allow someone else to care for my daughter. With the dynamic nature of parenthood, I know I will eventually have to outsource other tasks.
What other advice have you been given that does not fit your circumstance?
Are you richer with or without kids?
To have children or not is a scenario some women face during their careers. Some people believe their earning potential will be limited if they have children. This article discusses how having children can shift priorities and allow certain areas of life become richer.
In Fall 2022, I received a link via text message to an article published in Bloomberg.com entitled Women Who Stay Single and Don’t Have Kids Are Getting Richer. The person who sent me the link didn’t know that I was expecting my first child. Out of curiosity, I read the article and was left with one outstanding question: Did the new research from St. Louis Federal, cited by the author of this article, include women from various racial groups and ethnicities?
In 2019, I viewed an Instagram video post by Supa Cent, an entrepreneur, that showed her signing closing documents for a warehouse for her cosmetics line while she was in the hospital having contractions before giving birth to her daughter. Observing how undeterred she was in achieving her dreams, inspired me during my pregnancy journey.
Before having my child, I basked in my freedom from only being responsible for myself. I never thought having a child would limit my earning potential. I believed that having a child would strengthen my resolve to acquire more resources for my family. In addition, I have become “richer” in other aspects of my life. I’m richer in three attributes: prioritization, gratitude, and creativity.
Prioritization
Having a child is helped me to better prioritize my daily tasks. I spend less time mindlessly scrolling on my cell phone and more time keeping myself organized to better care for my child.
Gratitude
I’m thankful for the village that has surrounded me since having my child and I now make a greater effort to write down what I’m grateful for.
Creativity
I never thought I could feed a child and feed myself simultaneously but I figured out a way.
I’m sure I’ll grow richer in other attributes during my parenthood journey.
Labor Day 2022: Five Recent Acts/Plans to Advance American Workers
This post briefly discusses the history of Labor Day and the five most recent acts/plans initiated that impact American Workers.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, “Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers.” Oregon was the first state to pass a law on February 21, 1887 to recognize Labor Day. On June 28, 1894, Congress passed an act declaring the first Monday in September of each year to commemorate Labor Day. Four years later in 1898, Congress passed the Erdman Act, a comprehensive version of the 1888 Railroad workers legislation, with additional sections to make it illegal to fire workers for their union membership. However, in 1908, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the Erdman Act was “an unconstitutional infringement upon the freedom of contract (Adair v. United States, 1908)”. Two decades later, the U.S. government shifted its philosophy with the enactment of the Norris-La Guardia Act (1932). This act stated that workers should be able to join unions without interference from employers.
Over the years there have been several acts/plans to advance American workers. Listed below are the five most recent acts/plans.
1. American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021
ARPA was enacted to provide “additional relief to address the continued impact of COVID-19 (on the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals, and businesses”. On September 2, 2022, President Biden announced that 21 winners representing 24 states will receive “between $25 million and $65 million to execute transformational projects and revitalize local industries”.
2. Bipartisan Infrastructure Law 2021 (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act)
This law was created with the following objectives:
rebuild America’s roads, bridges and rails
expand access to clean drinking water
ensure Americans access to high-speed internet
tackle the climate crisis
advance environmental justice
invest in underserved communities
For those who are interested in executing the objectives listed above, there are several grants/funding programs connected with this legislation.
3. CHIPS and Science Act of 2022
This act has the following objectives:
Bolster U.S. leadership in semiconductors by providing $52.7 billion for American semiconductor research, development, manufacturing, and workforce development
Promote U.S. innovation in wireless supply chains by providing $1.5 billion for promoting and deploying wireless technologies that use open and interoperable radio access networks
Advance U.S. global leadership in the technologies of the future by public investment in research and development in areas including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced computing, and quantum information technologies
Provide STEM opportunities to people from underserved and marginalized communities by new and expanded investments in STEM education and training from K-12 to community college, undergraduate and graduate education
4. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) 2022
The IRA was established to mitigate inflation by lowering the costs of prescription drugs, health care, and energy. Medicare will be able to negotiate prices for high prescription drugs. Health insurance subsidies are extended for families benefiting from the Affordable Care Act. Clean energy businesses will be incentivized if they pay workers fair wages and use registered apprenticeship programs.
5. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (H.R. 1065)
This Act passed the House in May 2022 and cleared the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee by a 19-2 vote in August 2022. If passed by the Senate, the law would provide “short-term, reasonable accommodations to pregnant women in the workplace.”
Commemorating Freedom
June and July are months that we celebrate freedom for Americans. However, this year’s celebrations may not be as festive as previous years due to the recent Supreme Court decision regarding Roe v. Wade. This post discusses three celebrations that occur in June and July and suggests ways for American citizens to advocate for their freedom.
June and July celebrate freedom. Last month the United States celebrated freedom for two groups: LGBTQ+ and African Americans. LGBTQ+ pride month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan which was a pivotal turning point in the Gay Liberation Movement. In 2021, Juneteenth was declared a national holiday to mark the anniversary of the announcement made by Gordon Granger, a Union Army general, that proclaimed freedom for enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865.
This month the United States will celebrate Independence Day (Fourth of July) to remember when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence that separated the thirteen colonies from Great Britain. This adoption signified that America was a nation free from the restrictions placed by the British monarchy. This year’s Fourth of July celebration may not have the same celebratory tone as in previous years due to the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. Roe v. Wade protected reproductive rights for women. Protests are expected in many states during the Fourth of July weekend and the hashtag #Cancel4thOfJuly is being seen on social media platforms.
What can you do to advocate for freedom?
1. Support (volunteer, donate, etc.) organizations that work to protect freedom.
2. Educate yourself and your family on your rights.
3. Vote for your ideal candidate in local, state, and federal elections.
4. Hold your elected officials accountable by either calling, emailing, or sending letters regarding issues you want them to act on.
Generational tips for preparing for a recession
Stories of an impending recession in the U.S. economy have dominated the news headlines. This post provides tips for every stage of work life to prepare for a recession.
Rising gas prices, interest rates, and layoffs are indicators that the economy may be headed for a recession. The good news is that a recession typically lasts for six to twelve months. Below are a few tips depending on your stage in life that will help you prepare for a recession.
Young professionals (18-24 years old)
1. Develop a budget. A budget will allow you to assess how you spend your money and prioritize essential expenses.
2. Pay off consumer debt. Struggling to pay off debt during a recession can adversely affect your financial future.
3. Develop multiple streams of income. Evaluate your interest and skills and develop active (e.g., delivery driver, freelance consulting) and/or passive (e.g., course creation, real estate investing income streams.
Career professionals (25-65 years old)
1. Increase savings. Work towards developing an emergency fund for at least one year.
2. Keep bonds in your retirement portfolio. Bonds provide a buffer when stocks are performing poorly.
3. Don’t try to time the market. Financial experts recommend to diversify your assets rather than making hasty decisions when the stock market is down.
4. Refer to step #3 under “Young professionals (18-24 years old)”.
Retirees
1. Pay down debt. Paying interest on loans will limit the amount of money you can place in an emergency fund.
2. Stash your cash. Keep at least a year’s worth of expenses in your retirement account.
3. Shift some assets into bonds. Review your asset allocation to ensure that you don’t have most of your assets in stocks that are likely plunging during a recession.
Your experience is not my experience
Well-meaning mentors, colleagues, friends, and family who have had career success often advise us on how to manage our careers to obtain the same success. If you don’t achieve similar success, you may be questioned or even question yourself. In this post the author shares her experience and provides two main factors that may inhibit your career growth.
Results may vary. It is likely that you have seen this phrase in commercials which tout the benefits of their products. Don’t you wish that your mentors, colleagues, friends, and family would provide this disclaimer when giving you advice about your career? In my career I have listened intently to career success stories and followed well-meaning advice provided by individuals who have had successful and financially prosperous careers. I was told to network, get involved with professional organizations, and take on additional responsibilities at work. Although I followed their advice, I have yet to receive the accolades and compensation of these individuals. However, their advice has allowed me to network with many people and have a variety of career experiences. When I have shared the outcome of my efforts with colleagues, some were surprised that I had not been promoted because they knew that I had put in a lot of hard work. A few acquaintances even questioned if I was working “hard” enough. This questioning caused me to ask myself if I was doing everything I could to achieve the success that I wanted.
Factors that may inhibit your career growth
1. Working in a toxic work environment.
If you find that leadership does not actively support professional development, it is time to seek other employment.
2. Mindset
I have often heard the phrase: “It’s better to stay with the devil that you know, than the devil you don’t” as it relates to seeking a better career opportunity. This mindset cripples career growth.
Instead of doubling down on my job to the point of burnout, I decided to reevaluate my definition of a successful career. A successful career for me now includes acquiring professional skills (e.g., writing, content creation, and public speaking) that impacts others and enriches my professional and personal life. Now when I’m questioned on why I haven’t received the career success that others have obtained, my response will be: “Thank you for your observation, but your experience is not my experience”.
One size doesn’t fit all: Leaders addressing burnout in the workplace
Leaders use a variety of methods to improve morale to mitigate burnout. However, these methods may not be effective for all employees. This post provides three tips on how to mitigate employee burnout.
Time-off awards, bonuses, and public recognition are all tools that leaders use to recognize the accomplishments of their employees and to improve overall morale. However, these methods often are not enough to prevent employee burnout. A survey by Robert Half International Inc. found 41% of employees feel more burned out than a year ago.
What can be done to address employee burnout?
1. Get to know each employees’ limits and motivation.
Leaders should have regular confidential check-ins with employees to discover what overwhelms each employee and how each employee prefers to be recognized for achievements.
2. Take action.
Once employees share their concerns, leaders should immediately take action to mitigate them. If their concerns will take a long time to address, leaders should be transparent about how much time is required.
3. Offer workplace flexibility.
A survey conducted by the HR firm WorkHuman found 47% of employees desired workplace flexibility and 53% desired mental health days.
Beware of what you share: Mental health apps privacy concerns
The use of mental health apps grew exponentially during the pandemic. This article briefly discusses the money earned by this industry, findings of a recent study of the top 32 mental health apps, and steps to take to protect your privacy while using apps.
As a result of the pandemic shutting therapists’ offices and creating long waiting lists, some patients turned to mental health apps. In 2021, mental health apps acquired $4.4 billion dollars globally. $1.4 billion dollars have been poured into the industry so far this year. Mental health apps provide on-demand resources; however, the accessibility creates privacy concerns.
In Mozilla’s latest “privacy not included” report, 28 out of the top 32 mental health apps had significant privacy concerns. BetterHelp, Woebot, and Talkspace have the worst privacy and security standards. According to the report, BetterHelp’s privacy policies are obscure, Woebot shares personal information with third parties, and Talkspace saves chat transcripts. PTSD Coach and Wysa are the apps with the best security controls.
How to better protect your privacy when using apps
Don’t use social media accounts to login.
Set up multifactor authentication, or two-factor authentication.
Limit location permissions only when apps are being used.
Keep apps updated.
Delete unnecessary apps.
Apps and digital health resources reviewed by experts
Self-talk vs Positive thinking
Self-talk and positive thinking are terms that are used interchangeably. Are they the same or different? This post will define and evaluate self-talk and positive thinking.
Self-talk and positive thinking are terms that we have heard before. We are often encouraged to think positively but are unaware of the first step that it requires. I’ll give you a hint. What is something that we do constantly that may affect our physical and mental wellbeing? Self-talk. Self-talk can affect your cardiovascular health, immune system, stress and life satisfaction levels.
What is self-talk?
Merriam Webster defines self-talk as “talk or thoughts directed at oneself”. Self-talk reflects your “thoughts, beliefs, questions, and ideas” (Holland, 2020). Self-talk is divided into two categories: positive and negative.
Types of positive self-talk
1. Instructional. It provides direction on a specific activity. This self-talk is helpful when you are learning a new
skill.
2. Motivational. It excites you to complete a task or achieve a goal. This self-talk increases your self-confidence.
Research has demonstrated that positive self-talk helps athletes improve their performance and reduce anxiety.
Types of negative self-talk
1. Personalizing. You hold yourself accountable for everything that happens.
2. Magnifying. You dwell on the unfortunate circumstances and omit any positive.
3. Catastrophizing. You predict the worst outcome and can’t be persuaded otherwise.
4. Polarizing. You limit your world view to only two choices (e.g., black or white, true or false).
What is positive thinking?
Positive thinking is choosing to view life circumstances favorably. Kendra Cherry, author of the article “What Is Positive Thinking?” provides a thorough definition.
Positive thinking does not necessarily mean avoiding or ignoring the bad aspects of life. Instead, it involves making the most of the potentially bad situations, trying to see the best in other people, and viewing yourself and your abilities in a positive light.
Are self-talk and positive thinking the same?
They are not the same but they are closely related. Positive self-talk is the precursor or one of the ingredients that allows positive thinking to happen. A great way to practice positive thinking is to be mindful of your self-talk. If you discover that you are on a “negativity streak”, redirect your thinking to something positive.
Daily Thankfulness: Developing a gratitude mindset
Daily thankfulness is a habit that will allow you to consider the things we often take for granted while pursuing our goals. This post will define and provide suggestions for developing a gratitude mindset.
Good habits can be developed through consistency and determination. A great habit to adopt is being thankful daily for what you have. Developing a gratitude mindset allows you to acknowledge what you have while in pursuit of your goals.
What is a gratitude mindset?
A gratitude mindset is a fixed attitude of thankfulness. This thankfulness can be for things such as health, family, and friends – things that we take for granted when our life is going well. The advantages of developing a gratitude mindset include increased happiness, humility, and better time management.
How to Develop a Gratitude Mindset
1. Reflect.
Meditate on the positive aspects of your life before starting the day.
2. Affirm.
Vocalize everything that you are thankful for.
3. Help others.
Volunteering your time to help others takes the focus off of your problems and makes you appreciate what you have.
4. Eliminate comparison.
Social media often distracts us with images of successful people that can make us feel that we aren’t doing enough. Focus on achieving your goals.
5. Show appreciation.
Write thank you notes to the people that have helped you which specifically states how their assistance impacted your life.
6. Surround yourself with positive people.
The people you associate with affect your mindset. Keeping company with people who are grateful will cause you to become more appreciative.
I will try vs. I will do: Developing a growth mindset
Saying the phrase “I will try” might sound like you are sincere about doing something but if you don’t have a growth mindset, saying this may set your up for failure. This post will define and provide steps for developing a growth mindset.
How many times have you used the phrase “I will try” when you are asked to do something? The phrase “I try” implies that you will not put exert much effort in completing the task. In addition, this phrase gives you an excuse for giving up after failing at something. Using the phrase “I will do”, implies that you will do everything you can to complete the task. This phrase places more responsibility on you to ensure a favorable outcome. “I will do” nurtures the development of a growth mindset.
What is a growth mindset?
Carol Dweck, Professor of Psychology, coined the term growth mindset and defines it as the belief that talents can be developed through hard work, good strategies, and input from others.
How to Develop a Growth Mindset
1. Abolish perfectionism.
Realize that mistakes and some failures are part of the process and learn from them.
2. Challenge yourself.
Enroll in that class or degree program, honor your commitments, take on a new responsibility at your job.
3. Be your own cheerleader.
Approval from others can uplift you; however, it is unsustainable. Encourage yourself and celebrate your achievements
4. Change your perspective on criticism.
Be open to feedback and use it to improve.
5. Set realistic timelines.
Developing skills takes time and focus.
Developing a growth mindset is important to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. It will allow you to become more impactful as you develop confidence in your abilities.
Mitigating Bias in Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has made improvements to our lives. However, this technology has biases that may adversely impact minorities, women, and older adults.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a major part of our lives. Each time you ask Siri or Alexa to complete a task, you are using AI. In addition, AI counts up the number of “likes” and the types of accounts that you follow to recommend pages in the explore tab of Instagram. Facial recognition software, an AI application used by law enforcement has been used to help solve crimes. However, due to high error rates in the AI algorithms, innocent minorities have been arrested. Some critics say there's a concerning lack of diversity among those who create AI software, and that is causing some of the biases found in artificial intelligence. These biases are also harmful for women and older adults who may be discriminated against when AI is used in the hiring process. Listed below are steps to take to mitigate biases in artificial intelligence.
Mitigating bias
1. Assemble a diverse developer team to build machine learning algorithms.
2. Demographic data used in AI algorithms should account for gender, race, and age.
3. Use objectively measured data to train the AI algorithms instead of historical data.
4. Consistently monitor the data and outcomes produced by AI to detect potential biases.
5. Stay current on the latest developments in AI and how to avoid biases.
Artificial intelligence will benefit society effectively if we consistently consider the impacts of it on all citizens.
Reading is Good for Your Health and Wealth
Reading at any age can influence your personal and professional growth and development. This post will discuss the benefits of reading on your health and provide evidence on how it can increase your wealth.
When I was a child, my mother encouraged me to read a lot of books. Her philosophy was that if I developed a love for reading, I could learn anything. In the summer, I loved going to the library and stuffing my backpack with books. I would voraciously read through the books and immerse myself in the characters. Reading took away the loneliness of being an only child. There was a program at the library that awarded children for the number of books read over the summer. I felt accomplished after I received the first-place ribbon for reading the most books and it encouraged me to continue reading. I realize now that reading boosted my mental health. Researching information for this post allowed me to discover the other health and potential wealth benefits of reading.
Reading and Health
Reading has several health benefits that include the following.
1. Reduces the risk of cognitive decline.
A study published in 2020 concluded that adults over 60 who read at least twice per week were less susceptible to developing dementia.
2. Reduces stress.
A study showed that reading, specifically reading a book aloud, for over 10 minutes reduces stress.
3. Improves sleep quality.
A randomized study conducted in 2019 with 991 participants concluded that “reading a book in bed before going to sleep improved sleep quality, compared to not reading a book in bed.”
4. Helps with weight management.
A study published in 2012 evaluated data on 17 nations from the International Social Survey Program. The study found that individuals who performed activities including reading, attending concerts and plays, and going to exhibitions have a lower body mass index (BMI) than those who engage in activities such as socializing, handicrafts, and watching television/listening to music.
Reading and Wealth
According to Sales and Marketing Executives International, individuals who read at least seven business books a year earn 2.3 times more money than those who read one book a year. Steve Siesbold, author of How Rich People Think, interviewed 1,200 of the world’s wealthiest individuals and found that reading was the habit they all had in common. Research by Tom Corley, author of Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals discovered that 88% of wealthy people spent 30 minutes or more each day to self-improvement reading. Self-improvement reading such as Dr. Mansur Hasib’s book Bring Inner Greatness Out: Personal Brand provides tips and strategies to develop your personal brand and improve your compensation negotiation skills that can be used to increase your wealth.
Reading will not automatically make you healthy and wealthy. Executing on what you have read will allow you to continue your journey to health and wealth.
10 Practical Tips for Maintaining Focus
We are living in the “age of distraction” which makes it difficult to focus on our tasks and projects. This post will provide techniques to help you maintain your focus to improve your productivity.
Email, text message, and social media app notification alerts are the players in this “age of distraction”. According to author Clay Scroggins, social media is a distraction that hinders our focus because it places us in an endless cycle of escapism from our issues. Maintaining focus is hard for even the most disciplined. The following tips will help you maintain focus while working on your tasks and projects.
1. Get adequate sleep.
A good night’s sleep will improve your focus. In a study published in March 2022, researchers found that at least seven hours of sleep attributed to the highest cognitive performance in individuals between the ages of 38-73.
2. Increase your water intake.
Mild dehydration can affect your ability to concentrate.
3. Eat nutritious food.
Foods such as oranges, broccoli, leafy greens, eggs, walnuts, and salmon provide nutrients to maintain your focus.
4. Take a break.
Take at least five to fifteen minutes to stretch or walk around to prevent fatigue when working on a time-intensive project.
5. Designate a specific time to check email and social media.
Set thirty minutes to check in the morning, at lunch, or at the end of the work day.
Refrain from stopping in the middle of a task to check social media.
6. Close out tabs.
When working on a project online, only have tabs open that are relevant to the project. This will reduce the temptation to look at irrelevant websites.
7. Eliminate multi-tasking.
Working on one project at a time will maintain your focus and increase your productivity. It may take some time to adopt this strategy but it will be worth it.
8. Set boundaries.
If your schedule is filled with activities, don’t agree to work on a project for someone else.
9. Create your ideal working environment.
Creating this space can include investing in a comfortable chair, organizing your workspace, turning of the television, and decorating the space with inspirational artwork.
10. Plan your week.
At the end of each week, plan your activities (professional, personal, and family) for the following week.
Women’s History Month: Seven STEM Pioneers
Women of all nationalities have contributed to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). STEM. This article highlights seven women who have made significant contributions to mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, cybersecurity, computer science, and marine biology, respectively.
Women have faced gender barriers throughout history while establishing their careers. This article spotlights seven women who overcame obstacles to make enormous contributions in science and technology. Hopefully their accomplishments will inspire women to persevere through their challenges in the workplace.
Dorothy Vaughan (1910-2008)
Dorothy Vaughan was both a respected mathematician and in 1949, became NASA's first African-American manager. She was assigned to the segregated "West Area Computing" unit, an all-black group of female mathematicians, who were originally mandated to use separate dining and bathroom facilities. This unit made significant contributions to NASA’s space program by assisting in aircraft testing and supersonic flight research. Dorothy Vaughan became an expert FORTRAN programmer and also contributed to the Scout Launch Vehicle Program.
Dorothy Vaughan
Chien-Shiung Wu (1912-1997)
In the early 1940s, Dr. Chien-Shiung Wu became the first woman hired as faculty in the Physics Department at Princeton. Dr. Wu was believed to be the only person of Chinese descent who worked on the Manhattan Project – a research project initiated during World War II which produced the first nuclear weapons. She also developed improved Geiger counters for measuring nuclear radiation levels. In 1990, Dr. Wu had an asteroid named after her (2752 Wu Chien-Shiung).
Chien Shiung Wu
Asima Chatterjee (1917-2006)
Dr. Asima Chatterjee was the first woman to receive a Doctorate of Science degree from an Indian university — the Rajabazar Science College, Calcutta University. She was a pioneer in organic and medicinal chemistry who developed important anti-epileptic and anti-malarial drugs. Dr. Chatterjee published around 400 papers in national and international journals that have been cited in other journals and textbooks. Dr. Chatterjee’s research on vinca alkaloids, derived from the Madagascar periwinkle plant, has been essential for chemotherapy drug development.
Asima Chatterjee
Wangari Muta Maathai (1940-2011)
Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai became the first female professor in her home country of Kenya in 1976. In 1977, Dr. Maathia started and led the Green Belt Movement, which aims to counter deforestation. The campaign encouraged women to plant trees in their local environments and the movement spread to other African countries. In 2004, she became the first African female recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize "for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace."
Wangari Muta Maathai
Becky (Rebecca) Bace (1955-2017)
Known as "a maverick and a catalyst for women in cybersecurity", Ms. Bace was a security technology expert, author, and entrepreneur. In 1973, she was accepted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham as the only woman in engineering. She was a pioneer in cybersecurity research and an early information security program manager, who directed research in information security for the U.S. Department of Defense in the 1980s and 1990s. She spent 12 years at the National Security Agency (NSA) where she created the Computer Misuse and Anomaly Detection (CMAD) research program. Ms. Bace was a venture consultant for Trident Capital and a chief strategist of the Center for Forensics, Information Technology and Security at the University of South Alabama.
Rebecca Bace
Idelisa Bonelly (1931-)
Considered the "mother of marine conservation in the Caribbean”, Idelisa Bonelly began her studies in marine biology in New York in 1953, since there were no universities in the Dominican Republic, her native country, where this discipline was taught. Upon returning to the Dominican Republic, Mrs. Bonelly founded the first institution in the country to study marine environmental sciences with the purpose of motivating young women to become scientists. She created the first humpback whale sanctuary in the North Atlantic. Since 1984, together with a group of Dominican and international organizations, Mrs. Bonnelly has promoted the protection of the breeding grounds of humpback whales, dolphins, and manatees.
Idelisa Bonnelly
Stephanie “Steve” Shirley (1933- )
Born Vera Buchthal in 1933 in Dortmund, Germany, Stephanie “Steve” Shirley fled Nazi Europe through the Kindertransport rescue effort initiated before the start of World War II. Mrs. Shirley, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, founded a software company originally named Freelance Programmers Ltd. in 1962. In 1996, the company went public and was valued at $3 billion. The company outsourced all its software development to women software developers who worked from home. Throughout her entrepreneurial career, she launched employment opportunities for female programmers and permitted them to continue their education and professional development.
Stephanie Shirley