Category Career

The Hood I Wore At Medical School Graduation

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There’s something undeniably powerful about donning a hood during a graduation ceremony, especially since it marks the culmination of years of hard work in a graduate or professional program. When you walk up to the center stage, hood draped across your shoulders, it’s like a visual representation of the dedication, sacrifices, and intellectual growth you’ve achieved. The hood symbolizes a kind of academic mastery—it’s a historical garment, evoking the traditions of scholars going back centuries. You can almost feel the weight of those who’ve come before you, standing on the shoulders of giants as you approach the moment when the degree is officially conferred.

As you take each step toward the stage, there’s an immense sense of pride. You’ve earned this. The hood feels like a badge of honor, a marker of your journey through intense learning, late nights, and possibly even moments of doubt. But all of that fades in the glow of the moment when your name is called, and you walk forward to receive your diploma. There’s a certain grace in the ceremony, too—the rhythm of the procession, the silence that fills the air, and the way the hood falls perfectly over your attire, a quiet but unmistakable signal that you’ve reached an academic pinnacle.

The most meaningful aspect of donning the hood for me at my medical school graduation ceremony was that I asked my mom to put it on me when I walked onto the stage to receive my diploma. My mother always believed in me, encouraged me, and was beaming with pride on the day that I graduated from medical school. I couldn’t imagine anyone else placing the esteemed hood across my shoulders.

A very special day in 2001 for me…

Another cool aspect is how the hood is often tied to your field of study through its color. Each color has a specific meaning, representing the different types of graduate studies or professional disciplines. For instance:

  • White often symbolizes a degree in Arts, Humanities, or Letters, evoking clarity, light, and knowledge.
  • Purple is typically associated with Law, representing authority and the prestige of the legal profession.
  • Green might be worn by those earning degrees in Medicine or Public Health, symbolizing healing and growth.
  • Red is often linked to Theology or Divinity, reflecting the historical connection to religious institutions.
  • Dark Blue or Navy signifies Philosophy, capturing the intellectual depth and complexity of the field.
  • Yellow or Gold can represent Science, linking the pursuit of knowledge with the brightness of discovery.
  • Silver Gray is a color worn by those in the field of Social Work or Library Science, representing service and support for the community.

The fact that each color is tied to a discipline makes the hood a visual and symbolic tribute to the unique paths that graduates have taken. It’s like wearing your field’s identity proudly for a moment before the real world asks you to put your knowledge to use. There’s an elegance in the subtlety of these colors, the way they convey a deep history while celebrating your own place within it.

The hood isn’t just an accessory—it’s a symbol of a journey and a transition, from student to professional, and from learner to expert. The way it fits, the way it feels on your shoulders, and the way it marks your success is incredibly meaningful. How did you feel about the moment of walking with your hood at your graduation?

Flourishing in a New City and Creating a Vibrant Chapter in Your Life

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I hope you enjoy reading this article, written by Julia Merrill of befriendyourdoc.org!

Settling into a new city after a personal setback offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. For starters, it’s a golden opportunity to reinvent yourself, build resilience, and embrace a new chapter in life. The transition to this new environment, while daunting, can be navigated successfully with careful planning and a positive mindset. Here’s how you can turn this fresh start into a thriving adventure, courtesy of Dr. Stacey Naito.

Delving into Your New Locale

When relocating, your first step should be to immerse yourself in understanding your new city. Dive into the nuances of different neighborhoods, evaluating which ones align with your lifestyle and budget. LinkedIn suggests investigating the job market to gauge your employment prospects and understand the cost of living to manage your finances. Familiarizing yourself with local amenities, from public transport to leisure activities, will help you feel more at home and less like an outsider.

Research Your New Area

It’s not unusual to get a lot of spammers when you have a new address or phone number. A reverse phone lookup tool can be invaluable while you’re settling in, bringing quick insights into unfamiliar numbers. Whether it’s identifying local businesses reaching out, confirming service appointments, or screening for scams, this tool adds a layer of security and convenience. It helps you learn more about your community, too, allowing you to recognize local contacts and confidently connect with essential services, making the transition smoother and more manageable; check this out to learn more. 

Strategic Financial Planning

Financial stability is crucial in a new city. Construct a budget that reflects your new living situation. Factor in rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and a little extra for unexpected expenses. Being financially disciplined helps mitigate stress, allowing you to enjoy your new surroundings without monetary worries. Remember, a well-planned budget is your roadmap to financial peace in unfamiliar territory.

Fostering New Social Connections

Medibank points out that building a new social circle is vital in a new city. Seek out local groups or clubs that align with your interests. Whether it’s a book club, a sports team, or a community service group, these social platforms offer a sense of belonging and an opportunity to make meaningful connections. Establishing a support network in your new environment will make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Discovering the Heart of the City

Exploration is key to settling in. Take time to discover your city’s unique characteristics. Wander through local markets, visit museums, relax in parks, and find your favorite coffee shop. Exploring not only helps you navigate the physical layout of the city but also immerses you in its culture and vibe. This active engagement transforms the unknown into the familiar.

Diving into New Cultural Experiences

Embracing new experiences enriches your life and accelerates your adjustment to the new city. Try the local cuisine, attend cultural events, and participate in community activities. These experiences not only broaden your horizons but also deepen your appreciation for your new home. Embracing change and new experiences can transform an ordinary relocation into an extraordinary journey.

Nurturing Long-Distance Relationships

Maintaining ties with friends and family is crucial during this transition. Regular calls, messages, or video chats can keep you grounded and provide emotional support. These connections remind you of your roots and provide comfort during times of loneliness or stress. Remember, physical distance doesn’t have to mean emotional distance.

Elevating Personal Well-Being

Self-care should be a top priority during this transition. Engage in activities that nurture your body and mind. Regular exercise, healthy eating, meditation, or even seeking professional counseling can be beneficial. Prioritizing your well-being helps you to stay mentally and physically strong, enabling you to tackle the challenges of moving and adapting to a new city.

Relocating to a new city after facing setbacks is a journey filled with growth and discovery. By thoroughly researching your new environment, managing finances wisely, building social connections, pursuing passions, exploring, embracing new experiences, staying connected with loved ones, and prioritizing self-care, you set the stage for a successful and fulfilling new chapter in your life. Remember, this fresh start is not just about changing locations; it’s about transforming your life.

Discover insights and inspiration for health, wellness, and lifestyle with Dr. Stacey Naito.

Balancing Life’s Demands with Effective Stress Management

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I hope you will enjoy reading this wonderful article written by Sheila Olson of fitsheila.com which hones in on stress management.

In the journey to cultivate a more serene and manageable lifestyle, understanding and mitigating stress is essential. With a focus on self-awareness and actionable strategies, individuals can learn to navigate their stress with more confidence and resilience, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life. This guide from Dr. Stacey Naito provides a comprehensive approach to recognizing the myriad stressors that permeate daily life and offers practical solutions for effectively managing them.

Recognizing Emotional Alerts

If you find yourself frequently overwhelmed, anxious, or irritable, these could be your mind’s way of signaling stress. These emotional reactions are important indicators, suggesting it’s time to reassess your current lifestyle choices and stress management strategies. Recognizing these signs early can help you take proactive steps towards stress reduction. Addressing these emotional cues promptly ensures they don’t escalate into more severe issues. Continually monitoring your emotional state aids in managing stress before it becomes overwhelming.

Pursuing a Fulfilling Career

If your existing role no longer aligns with your aspirations, exploring new career paths may restore balance and joy to your work life. Stepping into a role such as that of a special education teacher can offer profound personal and community benefits, especially if you are driven by a desire to support children with unique needs. Online educational programs provide flexibility, allowing you to blend further education with current professional duties effectively. For more tailored advice on making such transitions, check this out for more info.

Journaling for Pattern Recognition

Maintaining a journal about your daily interactions can reveal patterns in what causes your stress. Document instances when you feel stressed, including the people, environments, or situations involved. This record-keeping can be a powerful tool for identifying recurring stressors and addressing them effectively. Over time, this practice aids in avoiding or altering these stress-inducing patterns. Sharing insights from your journal with a therapist or counselor can also provide additional perspectives on managing stress.

Assessing Environmental Impact

Your surroundings play a significant role in your stress levels. An overabundance of clutter, noise, and lack of privacy can all add to a stressful atmosphere. Take a moment to evaluate these factors in your home and workplace to determine if they contribute to your stress. Creating a calm, organized space can significantly reduce stress and enhance your ability to focus and relax. Consider implementing minimalistic principles to further reduce environmental stressors.

Balancing Life’s Commitments

Often, stress arises from a mismatch in the effort allocated to personal and professional commitments. Reflect on whether you’re giving too much to one aspect of your life at the expense of others. Achieving a more balanced distribution of your time and energy can significantly reduce stress. It’s essential to maintain a healthy balance to ensure personal well-being and professional productivity. Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is key to achieving this balance.

Integrating Relaxation Techniques

Incorporating practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing into your daily routine can profoundly affect your stress levels. These techniques promote relaxation and provide a necessary respite from the daily grind. Regular practice helps manage stress more effectively and improves overall mental health. Dedicate time each day to these activities to nurture your mental and physical well-being. Engaging in these practices in a group setting can enhance their effectiveness through shared experiences and support.

It is important to remember that stress management is a dynamic and ongoing process. Implementing the strategies discussed will require patience and persistence. Over time, these techniques will foster a greater sense of control over your emotional and physical well-being, transforming how you handle life’s inevitable pressures. By maintaining this proactive approach, you can continue to enhance your quality of life and nurture a resilient, stress-resilient mindset.

Explore wellness, lifestyle tips, and inspiration with Dr. Stacey Naito.

Revitalize Your Routine: Wellness Hacks for the Modern Career Woman

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This fantastic post, written by Camille Johnson of Bereaver.com, highlights the most important steps which career women should take in order to maintain balance and optimal well-being.

In the hustle and bustle of professional life, working women often find themselves caught in a relentless grind, juggling multiple responsibilities while striving for success. However, prioritizing well-being amid this chaos is essential for sustainable growth and fulfillment. Here, Dr. Stacey Naito delves into empowering strategies tailored to help women transcend the grind and elevate their overall well-being.

Harness the Power of Reflection

Take time to introspect and evaluate your priorities, goals, and values. Reflection allows you to gain clarity on what truly matters to you, enabling you to make informed decisions aligned with your aspirations. Embracing moments of solitude provides an opportunity for self-discovery and introspection, fostering a deeper understanding of your emotions and motivations. Regularly assessing your progress empowers you to course-correct when necessary, ensuring that your actions remain congruent with your long-term objectives.

Pursue a Degree Online

Earning a degree online is a great option if you’re looking to change your job and advance in your career. For instance, pursuing a degree in psychology can provide insights into cognitive and affective processes, equipping you to better support those in need. Online degree programs offer the flexibility to study while working full-time, streamlining, well, everything, from managing your schedule to accessing course materials. This approach allows you to gain new skills and knowledge without disrupting your current responsibilities.

Build Power with Resistance Training

Resistance training offers numerous benefits, including increased muscle strength, improved bone density, and enhanced metabolic rate, which collectively contribute to better overall health and fitness. Additionally, it can aid in weight management and improve posture, reducing the risk of chronic conditions. To maximize these benefits, consider a monthly customized exercise plan from Dr. Stacey Naito. Her tailored approach ensures that each workout aligns with your personal fitness goals and abilities, providing expert guidance for optimal results.

Set Achievable Milestones

Define clear and attainable objectives that inspire progress and keep you focused. Setting specific and measurable goals provides a roadmap for success, guiding your actions and decisions along the way. Breaking down large goals into smaller, manageable tasks prevents overwhelm and enhances productivity. Celebrating milestones, no matter how small, reinforces your sense of accomplishment and motivates you to continue making strides toward your ultimate vision.

Nurture Positive Self-Talk

Cultivate a nurturing inner dialogue that uplifts and empowers you. Positive self-talk involves consciously replacing negative thoughts with affirmations of your capabilities and worthiness. By practicing self-compassion and kindness toward yourself, you cultivate a resilient mindset that enables you to bounce back from setbacks with grace and determination. Embracing optimism as a guiding principle empowers you to see challenges as opportunities for growth and development, fostering a sense of hope and possibility.

Embrace Forgiveness

Release yourself from the burden of resentment by embracing forgiveness. Forgiveness is not about condoning the actions of others but about freeing yourself from the emotional weight of past grievances. By extending compassion to yourself and others, you create space for healing and transformation to occur. Letting go of resentment opens the door to inner peace and liberation, allowing you to move forward with clarity and purpose. 

In the pursuit of professional success, prioritizing well-being is not a luxury but a necessity. By incorporating these empowering strategies into your daily life, you can transcend the grind and cultivate a sense of balance, purpose, and fulfillment. Remember, empowerment begins with a conscious choice to prioritize your well-being and invest in your growth. Embrace the journey, and watch yourself soar to new heights of success and happiness.

For customized nutrition and training plans, as well as contest prep coaching, contact Dr. Stacey Naito today!

Should Nurse Practitioners Be Called Doctors?

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For this post, I am starting it off by copying and pasting an article by Art Caplan, who is from the Division of Medical Ethics at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. In this transcript, he discusses a lawsuit which three nurse practitioners filed in California. For those of you who would like to see the original post as well as the video, please click here.

Three NP’s With Doctorates Sue to Use ‘Doctor’ Title”; Ethicist Disagrees

Arthur L. Caplan, PhD

August 08, 2023

Hi. I’m Art Caplan. I’m at the Division of Medical Ethics at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. A lawsuit has been filed in California by three nurses. The nurses are arguing that because they have PhDs in clinically related fields of nursing and healthcare, they ought to be able to use the term “doctor” as a sign of respect for the work that they did to get a PhD.

That’s no insignificant amount of work. I have a PhD in a different area, but I know the kind of labor that it takes to complete that kind of a degree. I have no doubt that there are many advanced skills associated with having a PhD in one of those nursing areas that benefit patients.

The nurses say that California law, which currently restricts the use of the term “doctor” to MDs or DOs, ought to be expanded to recognize their PhD work. I don’t agree with this even though I certainly have nothing but respect for the work that nurses do, whether they have PhDs or not.

It seems to me that patients really come to hospitals, clinics, and healthcare settings distinguishing, if you will, between doctors (MDs and DOs) and nurses. They may have their ideas about what each of them do, and they may be wrong about what each of them do. I think the road to gaining respect for the work, the contributions, and even the importance of what nurses do is not to start to broaden the use of the term “doctor.”

Part of the reason I worry about that is that it’s a slippery slope. There may be others coming in who want to use that term. Some PhDs in bioethics may start to say, “Well, I’ve done a large amount of work in healthcare-related fields. Maybe I’d like to have that term used for me.” People in some of the more life science–oriented fields may do the same.

I don’t think heading down that road is the way to go. Instead, I would suggest that we try very hard to honor and recognize the work that all healthcare professionals do, including physical therapists, social workers, chaplains, doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and radiation technicians. When I have been in the hospital, I deeply respect all the work that those folks are trying to do to help me.

I don’t use the term “doctor” so much as the only person who’s worthy of respect or the only person who’s in charge. I use it just to distinguish between the set of skills, responsibilities, data collection, recommendation of therapy, and so on that, in my own head, correspond to different roles that people are doing.

Do nurses deserve more respect when they complete the difficult path to a PhD? Absolutely. My argument is simple. Let’s teach everyone who goes to the hospital. Let’s teach our students to respect everybody’s work, to respect the roles and professionalism that everybody tries to bring to the care of patients.

I don’t think having a battle over who really gets to use the word “doctor” is the best path forward because it still may lead to confusion. I think the path forward is learning to respect what all parties contribute in the care of patients.

I’m Art Caplan at the Division of Medical Ethics at NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine. Thanks for watching.

Now for my two cents…

I am in complete agreement with Art Caplan, and see absolutely no reason why these nurses who have PhD’s feel that they have the right to use the title of ‘doctor’ (due to the PhD designation and NOT MD or DO) and potentially confuse their patients. I firmly believe that unless someone who works in healthcare actually obtained an MD or a DO, that the individual has no right to insist on being referred to as ‘doctor’. If the title of ‘doctor’ is so important to someone who is interested in working in healthcare, then I suggest that the person attend and complete medical school and residency training just like I and countless others did. We put in the work, and we earned the doctor title.

Healthy Profits: Tips for Starting a Health-Based Business

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By Camille Johnson of bereaver.com

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With huge growth across health and fitness markets, now is the ideal time to take advantage and enter the field with a venture of your own. Social media and e-commerce have made it cheap and easy to get your best ideas out there, so it’s wise to take stock of your skillset and find the niche in the health sector that suits you best.

Business Ideas

  • Personal Training: With an uptick in the use of virtual meeting platforms, you don’t need to have a gym membership to successfully run a personal training business. Start by creating a website that allows clients to view your availability and schedule appointments with you. You can also offer nutrition plans and personalized workouts that will show them the value you bring to their efforts toward a healthy lifestyle. 
  • Health Products Store: Suppliers like Amazon have made it easy to start an online store without manufacturing any products yourself. With some research into which products are most in-demand, you can create a website that makes the purchasing process simple for health enthusiasts. 
  • Content Creation: Gaining an online following can open the door to sponsorships and paid partnerships. You can become a health influencer by posting satisfying content about meal preps, posting your workouts, and offering advice to your subscribers. It may also be helpful to live stream some of your content so you can engage with your audience in real time and gain a more comprehensive understanding of what they are looking for. 

Starting Your Business

Structure is a crucial part of any business, so it’s imperative to begin your efforts with a well-thought-out business plan. Be sure to include pertinent details such as your intention for day-to-day operations and the relevant staffing requirements. 

You’ll also need to ensure that you register your business with an appropriate structure according to your plans for growth, tax preferences, and hopes for attracting investors. A limited liability company, or LLC, is a great option for most first-time entrepreneurs, as it protects your personal assets from being liable in your business’s finances and offers tax advantages. You can learn how to start an LLC by reading up online, but it’s helpful to work with a service that ensures your paperwork is filed correctly so you’re legally compliant with the state.

Avoid taking on unnecessary costs while you’re getting started, as this will only make it more difficult to turn a profit and may leave you with unnecessary debt. Be sure to keep thorough records of business activity and a budget for expenditure. It may be helpful to contract the services of a professional lawyer or accountant who will help ensure that your business remains fully compliant with legislation.

Growing Your Business

Marketing is one of the most important aspects of growing a business, so it’s vital to monitor your marketing efforts and keep track of which strategies are bringing in the most revenue. Thankfully, there are a number of free online tools you can take advantage of to get started.

Starting a blog is also a great way to make sales as you gain the interest of readers. You could review specific products that are currently high in demand and compare them to similar offerings on the market. This will make it easier for customers to trust the quality of the brand and feel more confident in finalizing a purchase. 

You likely want to highlight achievements in your background on your blog, and offering a curriculum vitae is a great way to do that. You can use a template for a CV to customize your own online. You can put together an eye-catching and informative document for your potential customers.

Don’t be afraid to partner with other businesses and run social media campaigns and competitions that will increase your following and make potential customers aware of your offerings.

As you expand your business, it’s important to develop situational ePHI awareness to guard against potential data compromises. This is a necessity if your business interacts with protected medical data. Traditional cybersecurity may not be enough, so seek out solutions designed for healthcare.

There is an abundance of opportunities to start a successful health-based business without putting up too much money upfront. You simply need to find a solution that best fits your skills and interests, highlight your qualifications, and be ready to take operations online.

For nutrition and fitness products, figure contest prep, and personal training, visit StaceyNaito.com today!

How to Improve Your Overall Wellness When You’re Uber-Busy: Tips for Women Creators

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As a woman creator, it’s easy to get bogged down by the daily grind. We’re constantly juggling work, family, and social obligations, and it can be tough to find time for ourselves. However, it’s essential to remember that our health should always be a priority. Today, Dr. Stacey Naito shares some tips on how to overcome the hustle and bustle and boost your overall wellness!

(Post written by Julia Merrill of Befriendyourdoc.org
julia@befriendyourdoc.org)

Eat Nutritiously

One of the best ways to improve your overall wellness is to focus on healthy eating. Medical News Today points out that eating nutritious foods will give you more energy and help you keep your mental focus sharp. You don’t have to completely overhaul your diet overnight; just try to make small changes, like substituting fruits and vegetables for processed snacks. You’ll be surprised at how much difference it can make in your overall health.

Move Your Body

Exercise is also crucial for maintaining your health, and it’s essential to get at least 30 minutes of movement every day. If you’re short on time, try breaking up your exercise into shorter 10-minute increments throughout the day. Healthline notes that taking a brisk walk or going for a light jog are excellent options to help relieve stress and improve your overall fitness level.

Change Careers

Sometimes, the best way to improve our wellness is to simplify our lives by eliminating things that cause us stress. If your job is causing you more anxiety than enjoyment, it may be time to start looking for something new.

Fortunately, plenty of online resources can help you create a stellar resume and find the perfect career opportunity. For example, you can use a free resume template and customize it to showcase your science fiction/fantasy work in a professional light. You can also use a free or low-cost website builder to create a stellar portfolio.

If you feel like you could use an educational upgrade before you reenter the business world, you could always go back to school and earn a bachelor’s degree in business. That will definitely open doors and give you a massive advantage over the competition. Also, thanks to the flexibility of online learning platforms, you can proceed at your own pace, from the comfort of your home, without having to take too much time off.

Start a Company

Starting a business can also be a great way to improve your overall health and well-being. When you’re your own boss, you have the flexibility to design a work schedule that works for you. You can also take advantage of tax breaks and other benefits of owning your own business. Here are a few tips for launching a company out of your creative passion:

  • Find a niche: When starting a business, it’s essential to find a niche market. This will help you focus your marketing efforts and connect with potential customers who are interested in what you have to offer.
  • Do your research: Before starting any business, it’s important to do your research and make sure you have a solid plan in place. This includes everything from your business model to your target market.
  • Select a legal structure: One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when starting a business is selecting a legal structure. This will determine things like how you file your taxes and how much liability protection you have. Many entrepreneurs form an LLC because of the liability protection and tax flexibility. Keep in mind that you can establish an LLC through an online service, but you’ll want to research which formation service is the best fit for you.
  • Get insured: Insurance is another important consideration when starting a business. Make sure you have the proper coverage in place to protect yourself and your business from potential.
  • Create a marketing plan: Once you have your niche and business plan in place, it’s time to start marketing your company. There are many ways to market your business, including online advertising, social media, and traditional methods like print or television ads.

Conclusion

Making small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on your overall health and well-being. Remember to focus on healthy eating, exercise, and reducing stressors in your life. If you’re not happy with your current career situation, don’t be afraid to make a change. And if you’ve ever thought about starting your own business, now may be the perfect time to take the plunge!
Dr. Stacey Naito is an artist, as well as a board-certified family practice physician. Scroll down to leave a reply!

Entrepreneurs: The Outdoors Might Be Your Best Teacher

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By Camille Johnson of Bereaver.com

There are few things more relaxing than spending time in the open air. Being outside, whether you are hiking, biking, camping, or gardening, is great for your health and can improve your mental well-being. Surprisingly, your time in nature can also teach you a lot about yourself and the world so that you can be a better entrepreneur, whether you’ve been in business for many years or are just getting started. Today, StaceyNaito.com covers a few of these lessons and offers insight on how to get the most out of your outside excursions.

Planning Ahead

Before you set out for an adventure, get your business prepared to run without you. Tips here include:

  • Hire the right staff. If you’re just planning a night or two over the weekend, you can probably skip this step. However, to get the most out of your time, you’ll want to be immersed in a natural environment for at least a week. Find the right staff to keep your business running even when you are unavailable. This begins by determining what functions need to be filled and thoroughly reviewing applicants. While most experts will recommend choosing only the most qualified applicant, don’t count out those eager to learn your industry.
  • Streamline your invoicing processes. Don’t leave town without making sure that you can send invoices and get paid on time. If you have not already, invest in a cloud-based invoicing tool that lets you send bills from anywhere. This is helpful if you do not yet trust your employees with sensitive information, such as customer credit card numbers. If you have recurrent invoices, look for software that will let you schedule your billing ahead of time and will also ping you when payments are made. Utilizing cloud technology also allows you to stay involved as long as you have an internet connection.
  • Make sure you’re available at least some of the time. Speaking of staying involved, set aside a couple of hours each day to field questions or handle tasks that your employees cannot. For this, you want to make sure to pack your laptop (Quantum Technologies recommends traveling with a locked case), a Wi-Fi hotspot, and an additional battery backup as you may not be able to charge your phone or devices.

You’ll also need to prioritize safety, especially if you’ve never been much of an outdoorsman before. Things you can do to keep yourself and your travel party safe are:

  • Let someone else know where you are going. Even if you’re planning to travel with a group, let somebody know where you are and when you are expected back.
  • Pack appropriately. While you do need to pack some of your professional essentials, make sure that you have room for all of the equipment you’ll need to stay safe and healthy while you travel. If you’re camping, for example, REI suggests making sure that you have a tent, pillows, sleeping pads, and a camp table if no picnic facilities are available. Further, pay close attention to the weather and dress in layers if significant temperature spikes are expected.
  • Know your destination. Even if you already know where you are going, spend some time really getting to know the area before you go. While this isn’t so important if you plan to stay close to home, when you’re traveling outside of your comfort zone, you’ll want to know everything from the location of the local police station to exit routes on your hiking excursion if you need to turn back.

What The Outdoors Can Do For You

Now that you are prepared to go, it’s time to take a look at the benefits of being outdoors. Obviously, it’s great exercise and a fun way to vacation. But, spending time in nature can also equip you to be a better business owner by teaching:

  • Patience. If you’ve ever talked to a child that went to summer camp, you know that a nature-centric experience can teach patience as these kids have to learn how to wait for the bathroom or to help with younger peers. As an adult, you will learn patience by having to wait out the weather, wildlife, or slower members of your party.
  • Team-building. There are plenty of outdoor team-building activities that can help you be a better boss and team player. Activities like swimming relays, target practice, and sailing are great ways to get your team to learn how to work together more effectively. Two other significant benefits of team building outdoors are learning to identify stronger potential leaders and establishing trust between your employees.
  • Preparedness. Anytime you’re outdoors, you have to be prepared for everything from rain to wild animals. As such, your adventures can also teach you how to prepare for all situations and to adapt if you’re not prepared. Things, like knowing which medical supplies to pack or having an additional set of oars available if you’re kayaking, might seem like insignificant touches, but if you need them, they can be lifesavers. You can apply the same set of principles at the office by having a plan in place in case an employee leaves, a vendor is late, or a high-value customer pulls their business.
  • Conservation. When you first step out into the big wide world, it’s easy to believe that the resources you see are infinite. They are not, and it is up to us to preserve the world around us for future generations. Air, soil, and water pollution, all of which are the direct result of human activity, take a toll on the natural world. As you get deeper into your adventures, you may notice things that you did not before, such as plastic bottles along the lake shore or animals looking for a home as deforestation drives them out of their natural environment. This can help you be a more responsible business owner by reminding you to preserve what you have and to be less wasteful every day.
  • Your own backyard. You don’t have to travel to take in the outdoors – just look out the window of your home. Consider creating an outdoor getaway in your own backyard. Remove tired landscaping and dead trees, install a deck or patio if you don’t already have one, and make a paradise of your very own. Some projects are best left to the pros, however, so bring them on to get the job done right. For instance, removal of a tree stump is no easy task, so go online and search service directories to find local contractors. The typical cost for such work ranges from $170 to $522, a worthy investment for hiring a company with the right equipment and experience.

There are many benefits of being outside, whether you’re planting a garden, spending a month-long sabbatical hiking the Appalachian Trail, or enjoying a week-long camping vacation. But, don’t forget to pay attention to the lessons that you learn that can help you as a business owner. You also want to make sure that you plan ahead by hiring the right staff and making sure that you can continue to get paid so that you can enjoy and make the most of your time outdoors.

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Dr. Stacey Naito of StaceyNaito.com offers customized meal plans, exercise regimens, and natural hormone balance to people who don’t want to compete but just want to lose weight, gain weight, or get toned. Contact Stacey today for more info!

This Is Seriously An Honor!

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Meet The World’s Hottest Doctor! All Guys Would Want To Get Treatment From Her Right Away!

This is crazy to me! I was bored one afternoon and decided to type in “hottest female doctors” in the Google search field. I had done this in the past and was stunned when I saw more than one article which mentioned me. I once again stumbled upon another article which was published in 2016, and which is a highlighted “People Also Ask” question on Google: “who is the hottest female doctor in the world:?”. I honestly thought I might see a venerated female colleague as a response to that question, but instead, I saw that there was an article on me!

I have gotten a LOT of criticism for being forthright in my determination to show off the labors of my hard work in the gym. My determination comes from being a “practice what I preach” type of person, and not from wanting to be in any type of spotlight. So before the haters emerge and decide to blast me, keep in mind where I am coming from.

Simple Yet Effective Self-Care Tips for Entrepreneurs — And Why It’s So Important You Make Time for Them

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Check out this very informative article by Jason Lewis, targeted towards entrepreneurs to help them learn how to practice self-care.

Jason Lewis is a personal trainer, who specializes in helping senior citizens stay fit and healthy. He is also the primary caretaker of his mom after her surgery. He created StrongWell.org and enjoys curating fitness programs that cater to the needs of people over 65.

Most entrepreneurs are of the notion that they have to clock an inhuman number of hours each week to obtain some semblance of success. This is the only explanation for the fact that 33% of small business owners put in an average of 50 hours per week and another 25% clock 60 or more. Yet, while many of the world’s most successful business owners agree that a nine-to-five workweek just won’t cut it, most also concede that self-care is an integral component of long-term success. If you have plans to make it big in your industry, take time out of your busy schedule to treat yourself.

The Case for Self-Care

According to Psychology Today, self-care is a key driver of leadership and workplace success. Below are a few benefits of self-care that back this assertion:

  • The most effective self-care activities, which include eating healthy, working out, getting enough sleep, and spending quality time with the people you love, are all known workplace performance enhancers.
  • Self-care keeps you from working more, which actually helps your productivity. Research shows that working more than 50 hours a week produces zero productivity gain.
  • Self-care activities boost your creativity and confidence and decrease your stress and anxiety.
  • Self-care prevents career-crippling crises from occurring.

Now that you understand the importance of self-care, explore ways you can incorporate it into your schedule for the most impact.

Get Plenty of ZZs

Successful people may burn the midnight oil or wake up at the crack of dawn, but rest assured, they sleep. According to a CNBC report, some of the most successful people — including Jeff Bezos, Tobias Lutke, Bill Gates, and Lebron James — get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. So, wake up or go to bed at whatever time you want, but be sure you clock your eight hours.

Hit the Gym

Exercise is important regardless of how you choose to make a living. However, if you won’t rest until you find success as an entrepreneur, then get moving. Per one survey, 76% of some of the most incredibly successful business leaders workout for at least 30 minutes each day. Research shows that exercise releases brain chemicals that improve memory, boost concentration and increase mental awareness.

Exercise does not have to be your typical weightlifting and running routine. Richard Branson plays tennis and kitesurfs. Jessica Alba does yoga and Krav Maga. Oprah averages at least 10,000 steps per day.

Remember to Breathe

Though relaxation seems like the opposite of productivity, you need to take a breather if you want to have more energy to put toward your business. Relaxation techniques will vary for everyone, but a few of the more effective ones include listening to music, writing, walking, and simply breathing. It also doesn’t hurt to say no to tasks that add a lot of stress and little benefit to your life.

Another way to relieve stress is by choosing to structure your business as an LLC. An LLC comes with numerous tax advantages, limited personal liability, minimal amounts of paperwork, and ample flexibility. They are easy to form on your own or via an online formation service — call the Zen Business phone number for assistance.

Find Ways to Save Time

As an entrepreneur, you may feel like you have to do it all, but know that you really don’t. In fact, by outsourcing menial but still important tasks, you can save time, money, and energy — all of which you can put toward the growth of your startup.

Self-care is crucial to your success as an entrepreneur. Start showing yourself some compassion today by doing any of the above. Reach out to Stacey for the fitness and nutrition guidance you need to be your best self! 

Image via Unsplash