4 Ways to Stay Productive in the Office

Your eyes and shoulders are heavy and droop.  Your attention span is thin, and your motivation even thinner.  You try to focus, but everything seems hazy.  You're listless.  We all know what it is: the 4 o'clock doldrums.  


Working in an office (or at any job or activity) can be physically, mentally, and even spiritually stifling.  When the afternoon finally rolls around, we often find ourselves watching the clock tick so slowly that it's painful instead of doing the work we know we need to do.  


It's almost impossible to fight the distraction and the malaise after sitting in front of a computer screen for eight hours straight.  We were not meant for it.  If you are having trouble staying productive and clear-minded at work all day, try some of these tricks to keep you focused, refreshed, and smiling all day.

1. Take Breaks

Numerous studies have shown that people are more productive when they split their work up into manageable time slots with breaks in between.  If you are working on several projects at once, and especially if each project requires a different skills set, try switching between projects every half hour or so, just to keep your mind challenged and engaged.  Take five minutes to drink some water, stretch your hands, and let your mind unwind.

2. Read a Book

Taking breaks is the most important part of any good productivity plan.  However, it is equally important to make sure that those breaks aren't spent simply staring into nothingness.  If you don't have multiple projects that you can work on simultaneously, take a ten minute break every hour to read a book you love.  Reading serves two purposes: first, it lets your brain change gears, which helps to keep it engaged, and second, it refreshes you by doing something you enjoy.  Plus, it gives you something to look forward to every hour, which should help keep you on task.

3. Exercise

Of course, you're in an office, so this doesn't necessarily mean breaking out the weights and pumping iron.  But you can do some quick cardio exercises, like jumping jacks in the hallway, or sprints up stairs, to get your heart rate up and the oxygen flowing back to your brain.  Your brain feeds on oxygen and oxygen is transported in the blood stream.  Exercise gets your blood flowing and will reinvigorate you, as well as give you new focus.

4. Have a Conversation

If you can coordinate your breaks with someone else, this is a great way to keep your attention in top form.  Conversation will sharpen your focus, and the interaction with another person will get ideas flowing.  Talking to others releases endorphins, which elates you and can, again, make you more productive.
Work is important, but no one is designed to do one task for eight hours uninterrupted.  Mix up your day a little, and you'll find that you're actually more productive than if you didn't take breaks.


By-line:
Alvina Lopez is a freelance writer and blog junkie, who blogs about accredited online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: alvina.lopez @gmail.com. 

How to Gain More Readers Through Infographics- D.I.Y. Sundays

While a blog is famously known to consist of articles (i.e. made up of words), often times readers need a visual aid to help them digest the information—and no we’re not just talking about having a complimentary photo to make an article look more attractive. We're talking about the very popular growing inforgraphic. 

Inforgraphics tell a story in their own way by creatively and artistically displaying factoids and other interesting tidbits of information on a chart or other animated image. There are extremely eye-catching and can offer an interesting new way to post some of your content. Not to mention they do great for search engine optimization, especially if it gets popular on Twitter or Facebook and goes viral. This means you get tons of new readers.

While typically you need to have some background knowledge in graphic design to create one, there are a few websites that have made it easy for the average blogger to create his or her own infographic for free. The top 3 sites are listed below.

1.      Wordle—Like the name suggests, this infographic-making tool does some really neat things with words. Simply type a few words or even an entire body of text into the appropriate box and the site will automatically convert it to an artistic "word cloud." If you don’t like what the site has created for you, you can tweek the artwork yourself and change colors and fonts as well as themes. It's free to use but make sure you have the latest edition of Java or it won't run—if you don’t know worries, it can be easily downloaded for free. You can then directly post the infographic onto your blog or print it out for free for your records.

2.      Statsilk—This site gives users the opportunity to creatively display a set of statistics that pertain to the U.S. or the world as a whole. This is because this visualization software creates really intricate and interactive maps. Thus, if you get your hands on a set of facts or stats that deal with a certain region, state, or country why not make a map? You can literally paint a better picture for you audience instead of just using words.

3.      Creately—Lastly, this website lets bloggers create all kinds of "creative" diagrams, flowcharts, and concept maps. You may think that you'll never need to use one, but it can be a fun way to explain how something has evolved over time or use it to compare and contrast ideas. The possibilities are endless. The only downside is that the site only offers five free diagrams. Once those are used you have to pay to use its services.

While infographics surely aren't the only way to step outside of the box, they are a great way to start. Don’t forget about video blogging and podcasts too—they can make your readers really engaged. 

By-line:
This guest post is contributed by Lauren Bailey, who regularly writes for accredited online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: blauren99 @gmail.com. 

3 Incredible Health Benefits of a Smile- Guest Post

This is the first instalment for the New Look, New Attitude Lioness Rebirth Blog Event.

A smile- whether it's achieved consciously or subconsciously, it’s seen as a symbol for  

w        warmth, happiness, and  friendliness all  around the world. While it’s understandable that        

           there may be a time where you don’t feel much like smiling, it’s important that you do-  

           smiles are  actually a powerful tool that can promote health and overall well being. 

           That said, to learn why you should never forget to smile even on your  saddest days, 

continue reading below.                   

Eliminates Moodiness

Smiling is not only a by product of being happy—it can actually help produce happiness. This is why some researchers suggest that forcing yourself to smile even when you’re moody can actually lift your spirits and make you feel better. In fact, one British study says that one single smile has the same effect as eating 2,000 chocolate bars—which means you get the added “feel-good” chemicals that chocolate provides like dopamine and endorphins without the risk of gaining weight.

Can Expand Life Span

According to another study from Wayne State University, your smile may actually also predict how long you will live. These findings were concluded after researchers examined the photos of more than 230 Major League Baseball players from the early 50s. Those that had large, “beaming” smiles lived an average of 79.9 years of age, while those with only partial smiles lived an average age of 75 years of age. Those who didn’t smile at all only lived an average of 72.9 years of age.

Boosts Immune System

Lastly, smiling can help boost your immune system because it triggers a portion of your brain that makes it believe that everything is “ok” when you are stressed, anxious, or scared. Thus a smile can stop the production of adrenaline—a stress hormone that can actually hinder your immune system.  Therefore a smile could potentially make your body stronger to fight illnesses.

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Katheryn Rivas, who writes on the topics of online universities advice.  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: katherynrivas87@gmail.com.

The Versatility of Shampoo - D.I.Y Sundays

Yesterday, my mom gave me the idea for today's post. She was washing and I saw her using shampoo to remove the stubborn stains from the collar of her blouse. Then it hit me, like baby oil, shampoo should have a variety of uses. So here we go.

What is Shampoo?



Shampoo is liquid preparation  that is used for the removal of oils, dirt, skin particles, dandruff, environmental pollutants and other contaminant particles that gradually build up in hair. This is done by washing the hair with the product.

The Various Uses of Shampoo

• Shampoo can be used for cleaning out combs and hair brushes. Just soak the items in a solution of shampoo and water, then scrub them completely clean.

• Shampoo can be used mixed with conditioner  instead of shaving cream. Use a ratio of 1:1 and your face, arm pits, and legs will be soft and smooth.

• Like i said before,  Shampoo can be used to as a spot cleaner and it will remove stains, as well as ring around the collar.

• A mixture of  shampoo and baking soda can be used to clean chrome on vehicles. This gives it a nice shine. Remember to rinse thoroughly before buffing it dry.

• A nice beauty tip is to fill a small bowl with shampoo and soak your fingernails and cuticles. This not only cleans, but softens.

• Shampoo can brighten your walls too. Use shampoo and a clean, damp rag to wipe your walls. Wipe the air clean and allow the area to air dry.

• Shampoo is great to clean the outside of your refrigerator and stove. It will remove greasy spots, as well as dirt and other food spills too. 

• Rub shampoo into worn areas in circles to clean and bring back the colour of your accessories. It will protect your shoes from salt stains as well.

•  Shampoo also does a great job on soap scum because it rinses clean. You can use it to buff a shine into your chrome faucets as well.

So, today make shampoo your new best friend.  Remember these suggestion have not been scientifically proven, so use your own judgement. 

Please take a few seconds to take the poll at the top of the side bar. Thank You!!!!!! 

Resource sites

http://www.essortment.com/25-uses-shampoo-59089.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shampoo

http://www.rd.com/home/how-to-use-shampoo-14-ways/

Become a Coupon Queen- D.I.Y Sundays

What are Coupons? 


 A coupon is a voucher, ticket, or document that can be exchanged for a financial discount or rebate when purchasing a product. A coupon will feature a specific savings amount or other special offer to persuade consumers to purchase specific goods or services or to purchase from specific retailers. 


 Where are coupons found?


 Coupons are often widely distributed through mail, magazines, newspapers, the Internet, directly from the retailer, and mobile devices such as cell phones. 




 Why Use Coupons? 


 This one is a no- brainer. Couponing turns your money into a rubber band. You can use less money to purchase the things you want. You get more bang for your buck. 




 Now you can become a coupon QUEEN:




 Afullcup.com 


Coupons Deals fullcup Forums: You can find sections for all the major stores including CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, as well as tons of grocery stores. You can discuss deals, coupons, and even everyday life. Coupon Database: Coupons from all sources and details can be found here. Coupon Trading: Need a coupon or have a coupon you won't use. Trade the coupons you won't use for the ones you need or want. This offers pays out per each USA unique click

.


CellFire Coupons




CellFire Coupons users can add coupons right to the stores grocery savings card. Stores Cellfire currently works with: Baker's City Market Dillons Fry's Gerbes Hilander JayC King Soopers Kroger Owen's Pay Less QFC Ralphs Scott's Smith's Carrs Dominick's Genuardi's Pavilions Randall's Safeway Tom Thumb Vons ShopRite.


   




Free Coupon Alerts


Free Coupon Alerts is always updating with the latest coupons available online. They cover Printable Coupons, E-coupons and much more. Don't Miss a Coupon again with Free Coupon Alerts.


 




 Free Flys - Free Coupons and Free Samples Two words- free samples. Who doesn't love free samples?




   




 RedPlum.com 


Use RedPlum.com you can Print Free Grocery Coupons! RedPlum.com provides free online printable coupons to users




.
   




 Sunday Coupon Preview


 Sunday Coupon Preview helps you to save more on your weekly grocery trips by giving you a preview of coupons coming out in the next Sunday's paper.




   




Please take a few seconds to take the poll at the top of the side bar. This will enable us to provide you with information that you want.  THANK YOU!!!



Resource Site: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupon 
http://retail.about.com/od/glossary/g/coupon.htm

Managing Stress - DIY Sundays

We need some amount of stress in our daily lives to motivate us. However, being too stress can be detrimental to our health.  Some of the physical symptoms of stress includes: headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain and problems sleeping. 

If you can’t change the stressor, change yourself. You can adapt to stressful situations and regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude.

Here are some stress management strategies: 

• Reframe problems. 

Try to view stressful situations from a more positive perspective. Rather than fuming about a traffic jam, look at it as an opportunity to pause and regroup, listen to your favorite radio station, or enjoy some alone time.

• Look at the big picture. 

Take perspective of the stressful situation. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run. Will it matter in a month? A year? Is it really worth getting upset over? If the answer is no, focus your time and energy elsewhere.

• Adjust your standards. 

Perfectionism is a major source of avoidable stress. Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. Set reasonable standards for yourself and others, and learn to be okay with “good enough.”

• Focus on the positive.

When stress is getting you down, take a moment to reflect on all the things you appreciate in your life, including your own positive qualities and gifts. This simple strategy can help you keep things in perspective.

Resource Site: 

http://www.webmd.com

Ways to Save Money in the New Year

The New Year has come and Christmas has gone.  All the parties are over; the decorations are coming down.  What to do now? For some of us,  we find that the New Year is seeing us with a lot less money than last year. It is a matter of fact that the world's economy is  causing all the watch the pennies.  We often hear about budgeting but budgeting can take you only so far. I applaud those persons who can consistently stick to their budget. But for most of us, budgeting is a never ending battle between common sense and human desires. For others, there is just not enough money to budget with.  Therefore, I wanted to focus on some lifestyle choices we can make to help us save money.

Swap Babysitting with Neighbours and Friends


I love this idea. Instead of paying someone to babysit. You can swap babysitting with neighbours and friends. This way you are sure your child is secure while your out. You can take turns to baby sit.

Review Your Selection of Clothes

It is a common trend to hear persons say they have anything to wear. For some, this might be true ;but for others it is far from it. I suggest you go through your closet and review your clothing collection. After doing so, you will have an idea of the pieces of clothing you own. Also, you are able to mix and match pieces that can be used to create new outfits. 


Start a Backyard Garden



Not everyone has a green thumb. However, if you do; this is a great way to exercise and save money. You can grew your own herbs, tomatoes, lettuce and the list goes on. You can even get the kids to help.


Prepare Meals at Home

This is said so often that we should all know this at by heart. However, there are persons like me; who (for one reason or another) find it difficult to scheduled the time to prepare meals at home. 

Solutions:
pre-season meats on the weekend
find easy meal ideas
cook in bulk, package and refrigerate for use at a later date. 

Consolidate your student loans

This was very helpful for me. I was able to cut my student loan payments buy consolidating my student loans. This can be applied to other loans as well. There is no use burning your head in the sand go in and meet with your lending agency.

Use the Library


When was the last time you went to the library? Using the library is a cheaper alternative to buying books and magazines. It might seem like a drop in the bucket but every penny adds up.


Do It Yourself


There are so many things that we pay to get done that we can do ourselves. It is just crazy when you think about it. There are also so many things that we can make for example: beauty treatments, jams, cleaners, etc.