Many people dream of owning their own home one day. However, they don’t realize homeownership comes with more responsibilities than simply paying the bills. It involves making sure important maintenance tasks are taken care of regularly. If not, they could lead to costly problems later. While some homeowners hire people to help them get the jobs done, labor costs can quickly add up. Most basic maintenance tasks are easy to tackle on your own. Discover the following five important home maintenance jobs that can save you money. 1. Clean the GuttersEach fall after the leaves drop from the trees, you’ll want to remove the debris from the gutters of your house. This removal helps prevent water and ice from creating a dam that can damage the frames and cause leaks over the winter. While some people hire a professional to do this job, you can save a few dollars by doing it yourself. All you need is a sturdy, extendable ladder, a scoop to remove the debris, and a garden hose to flush the gutters when you’re done. Related: This is How a Home Warranty Can Save You Lots of Money 2. Replace Furnace and Air Conditioning FiltersIf you have a forced-air heating or cooling system, you need to replace the air filters often to make sure they’re in proper shape. In the case of gas-powered furnaces, dirty filters can lead to poor airflow and unfiltered air circulating through your home. Change the filters every few months for the best results. When it comes to central air conditioners, clogged filters can keep the cold air from exiting the unit, forcing the system to work harder to cool your home. Be sure to change the filter once a month during the summer months when the system is regularly in use. 3. Unclog DrainsClogged drains are a common household problem. A main cause of clogs is pouring hot grease and oil down the drain. As grease and oil cool, they harden, creating a blockage and causing the plumbing lines to back up. Keeping the drains clean and fresh using a homemade solution can save you money on a plumber in the long term. 4. Seal Gaps and CracksWalk around your house—both inside and outside—to look for gaps and cracks around windows and doors or in the walls and foundation. Replace cracked or worn weather-stripping and caulking to keep cold air and unwanted animals out. 5. Flush the Water HeaterOver time, sediment and minerals build up on the bottom and sides of a water heater. As a result, the unit uses more energy to heat the water, a process that can cause your utility bills to rise. Flush the water heater once a year to help prevent sediment buildup, increase the life of the heater, and reduce energy costs. Each year, you can save money by handling simple maintenance tasks without the help of a professional. The five tasks above are some of the many important home maintenance jobs that can save you money when you tackle them yourself before they turn into a bigger problem. This article originally appeared on Life on a Discount and has been republished by My Life, I Guess with permission. Image Credit: pixelshot via Canva.com. Related ArticlesYou might think that having a credit score in the 500s would keep you from buying a home. But that isn’t always the case. Depending on your circumstances, you may have lending options that make it possible to overcome that bad credit barrier when buying a home. Keep Reading: The Secret to Buying a House with Bad Credit Surviving on One IncomeSome households operate off one income by choice, while for others that is merely their circumstance. Regardless of how you found yourself in this position, a one-income household is not uncommon, and it’s certainly not unmanageable. Keep Reading: Financial Tips and Tricks for One-Income Households I Can’t Wait to Move!Housing affordability is a real, growing issue for both renters and homeowners. People often end up stuck in the cheapest places to live because living costs are increasing but our income is not. Whatever situation you’re in, if you hate where you live but you’re unable to move somewhere else, there are things that you can do to make your home tolerable until you are able to find something better. Keep Reading: I Hate Where I Live! What To Do When You Can’t Move Via https://mylifeiguess.com/home-maintenance/
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Taking control of your savings is a great way to get on track financially. There are plenty of options for how to save money and it is important that you find the best way that works for you and your income. You can try just one method of saving or multiple methods. In doing so you can establish a solid savings account to properly manage your finances. 1. Reduce Your SpendingI know, I know… this isn’t a ground-breaking new tip. But cutting back on your spending is the absolute easiest way to start saving money immediately. To start you should first track your spending and make note of everything you currently spend your money on, both essential and nonessential. Essential expenses can be rent or mortgage payments, transportation, utilities, and groceries. Nonessential expenses fall under anything that you do not need to buy to survive such as take out food, cable, subscriptions, or travel. In doing so you can then create a budget to see where you can cut your expenses and save money. Simply calculate all of your necessary expenses versus your monthly income. Whatever you have leftover can then be used at your discretion, however, if you are trying to build your savings, it is recommended that you put that leftover money away for a rainy day. 2. Cut Out DebtTaking a look at how much debt you have acquired over the years can help you then assess the best way to start saving your money properly. There are plenty of ways to either pay down your debt or pay it off entirely. One way to do so is to start paying more than just the minimum amount on your balances. While it may feel like you are spending more money by doing so, you are actually saving money because you will not fall victim to high-interest rates that linger by paying the minimum. Another way you can remove debt is with the debt snowball method. You begin by listing out all of your debts from smallest to largest without taking into account interest rates. Next, you make minimum payments on all of your debt except for the smallest so that you are instead paying as much as possible on your smallest amount of debt. Then you can repeat this process until your debts are paid in full. 3. Try a Money-Saving ChallengeAside from simply putting money into a savings account, there are alternative methods such as a money-saving challenge to make the process something to look forward to and easy to track. One money-saving challenge you can use to build your wealth is the dollar savings challenge. With this method, you should aim to put one dollar away each day to accumulate $365 by the end of the year. If one dollar feels too easy, you can aim to put $20 away each week to then accumulate $1,040 by the end of the year. Another money-saving challenge you can give a try is the 52-week money challenge. With this method, you can either begin with one dollar or $52, and each week you increase or decrease the dollar amount by one. No matter whether you start high or low, with consistency you will end up saving $1,378 in one year. 4. Create a Money-Saving ChartIf you are more of a visual learner and saver, creating a money-saving chart might work perfectly for you. A money-saving chart is something you create either on your computer or with pen and paper and can be an excellent way to visualize your budget. You can also pair this method with a saving challenge, or have it be a stand-alone way to get your finances in order. Consider using a spreadsheet to keep columns and rows of your numbers in order. For example, set up columns that track what week you are on, the amount you are depositing into your savings, and the total amount you have in your savings at that point. Each row will then depict a new week’s entry and you can watch your savings grow right before your eyes, which is an excellent way to remain motivated. 5. Consider Investing Your MoneyGetting yourself involved in the vast world of investing is also a great way to save your money. The best part about investing is that once you put in the initial work of deciding how you are going to invest, your money does the rest of the work for you. One way you can do so is by teaching yourself how to invest in stocks. By taking the time to learn about what stocks are currently successfully trending, you can then invest your money and watch your profits grow while taking a back seat. Another form of investing that many individuals use towards their future savings is a 401k or IRA program. A 401k is offered through your employer and can only be accessed or contributed to as an employee of a company with a 401k program. An IRA program is for individuals who are interested in investing in their retirement but do not have an employer that offers a retirement savings plan. Start Saving Today!No matter if you want to save money for an emergency fund, a vacation, or simply a rainy day, having established savings is crucial. Whether you decide to use all of these methods to save money or just one, it is important to remember that getting your savings in order can lead you down the path to financial stability. This article originally appeared on Life on a Discount and has been republished on My Life, I Guess with permission. Image Credit: Africa images via Canva.com. Related ArticlesIn these tough economic times, saving money is more important than ever. As a former Extreme Couponer and self-proclaimed frugalista, it’s time for me to get tough and start using my best strategies to save my family money. Keep Reading: 10 Easy Ways to Save Money at the Supermarket Start Growing Your Bank AccountSaving money is not inherently difficult. The hardest part is finding new or creative ways to save money and then acting on them. Yes, it’s easier to go with the flow and pay sticker price for everything. But what if learning how to save money on a few everyday things could significantly improve your financial situation? Would you be game? Keep Reading:52 Ways to Save Money (That Won’t Leave You Feeling Deprived) Get Money NOW!How often do you find yourself in desperate need of cash? We all go encounter financial trouble from time to time, but for some of us, it is a recurring problem. If you’re in a bind and need some fast ways to make cash, here are 12 ways to make money now, increase your income, and help you build an emergency fund. Let’s make some quick bucks! Keep Reading: I Need Money Now! 12 Excellent Ways to Make Quick Cash Via https://mylifeiguess.com/saving-money-is-easier-than-you-think/ It’s easy to get sidetracked when you’re working from home. The internet beckons, with Facebook, Twitter, and all kinds of sites out there just waiting to help you waste your time. The endless allure of social media, streaming services, and other online distractions can quickly derail your focus and productivity. But fear not! With a few simple strategies, you can stay on track and make the most of your time, whether you are working from home, taking online classes, or side hustling. From guilt-free breaks to satisfying routines, these tips will keep you focused, energized, and on track for success. So put on your favorite playlist and get ready to become an online productivity ninja! Here are five ways to use your time wisely when working online: 1. Find a Quiet PlaceThe key to success is finding the perfect spot – one that’s quiet, peaceful, and free of distractions. A lot of noise and movement is distracting and makes it harder to focus. Even songs with lyrics can be too much stimulation for your brain to handle and not work as well as it should. So find somewhere quiet. If you have to block out noise, pick music that is just instrumental or has lyrics in another language. Or try using noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs. You can even download a white noise app to drown out any unwanted sounds. Related: Treat Yourself! 50+ Self Care Gift Ideas For Under $50 2. Take BreaksI have noticed that when I start spelling badly, pounding the keyboard, or staring at the screen for long periods of time, it means it is time for me to take a break. Taking a break is not a waste of time. When your brain gets burnt out, you need to get away from work for a few minutes to refresh yourself. Take a walk, get a snack, or just get up and move and get your blood flowing again. Try to not look at any screens and give your eyes a rest. You can even take a short cat nap (as long as you actually keep it short). 3. Be OrganizedStaying organized is the best way to avoid wasting time. If you know what you have to do, how you will do it, and when you need it done, you save a lot of time because you’re not fooling around with the wrong things. Invest in a planner or download one online. Keep track of when deadlines and assignments are due and which parts need to be done first. That way you have a plan and are not just working aimlessly. 4. Do a Little at a TimeCrush your to-do list with this simple yet powerful strategy. Along with organizing your work, you need to cut your work into manageable parts. This way you are not spending all day or all night working and burning yourself out. Cut the work into reasonable objectives that can be accomplished in a short period of time. That way, you can work on them a little at time without feeling overwhelmed. With each accomplishment, you’ll gain momentum and feel energized to take on the next challenge. 5. Stay InterestedAre you tired of feeling bored and uninspired by your work? You need to make it interesting. Pick projects and ideas that appeal to you if you have a choice. Not only will this keep you motivated and engaged, but it will also reflect in the quality of your work. On the other hand, if you’re stuck doing something that bores you to tears, your productivity and creativity will suffer. As long as you keep your tasks interesting, you will be better off and more successful. So make it a priority to keep your tasks interesting and engaging. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you’re truly invested in your work! Related: Are You Bored at Work? Here Are 10 Productive Things To Do Maximize Your Day with These Time Management HacksWorking and learning from home has become increasingly popular in recent years, with the pandemic only amplifying this trend. However, with the convenience of working from home comes the temptation to indulge in online distractions. There are many ways to use your time wisely when working online, but these five should start you out on the right foot. The most important thing you need to remember is to keep yourself from getting burnt out and enjoy your time learning new skills. After all, the more you enjoy what you’re doing, the more you will retain, and grow. With these simple techniques, you can accomplish more than you ever thought possible. This article originally appeared on mylifeiguess.com. Feature Image Credit: IgorVetushko via depositphotos. Related Articles:Are you trying to find a new work-from-home job but worried that you don’t have enough experience in a relevant field? While some fields that offer remote employment can be quite exclusive, there are various work-from-home jobs that anyone can start without any prior experience. Keep Reading: No Experience? Here Are 11 Work From Home Jobs You Can Start Today 50 Tips to Improve Your Work-From-Home LifeWorking from home, while convenient, presents its own set of challenges. Establishing boundaries with roommates and spouses, ensuring you have the right gear, perfecting your lighting for video conferences, and hammering out a daily routine you can stick to—all while finding time to exercise, virtually socialize with loved ones, and figuring out a reasonable work-life balance—isn’t inherently easy to pull off. Keep reading to find out how to have a happy home-work life. Keep Reading:Use These 50 Tips to Improve Your Work-From-Home Life Don’t Be ScammedOne of the most disheartening things I’ve see working at a career center is the number of people that fall for work from home scams. These types of “jobs” look more and more convincing each day. Keep Reading: How To Spot (And Avoid) Work-From-Home Scams Via https://mylifeiguess.com/time-management-hacks/ I love stumbling on fun questions! Recently, I encountered, “Anyone here who decided to leave their job on the first day? What made you choose to run right away?” I’ll go first. Telemarketing! Like so many others, I was suckered into this when I was fresh out of high school for like 3.5 hours. It was the worst, most demeaning experience in my professional work life. I got up for lunch and never returned. So here are some other fun confessions that also walked out on day one. 1. MLMsMLM, is that you? For example, one user shared that the job required them to solicit their friends and family members to make sales. “If your first option is for me to make money off the people I care about most. After that, there’s nowhere to go but down (morally).” 2. Fish HobbyistA fish hobbyist got a job in the fish department at PetCo. On his first day, they wanted him to remove all the rocks (substrate) from each tank, scrub them, and put them back in the tanks, one tank at a time. “Moving substrate releases bad bacteria and can get the fish sick or kill them.” He explained this to them and said doing a water change for 20% of each tank was best. They said, sorry, this is what corporate says, and you have to do it. I said, “OK, I’ll do it after lunch.” I never came back from lunch. 3. Paid ParkingOK. This is absurd enough. I’m cringing. One man explained that they took a minimum wage job ($11.50/hr), and parking was not included. The parking fee was $20 a day. So two hours of work to park your vehicle! 4. Food SafetyEW! One informed the thread that a restaurant they worked at “defrosted chicken by leaving it outside the fridge overnight.” It was on the floor during the summer, and rats scurried away when they turned on the light the following day. “I called the safety department on that one.” Thank God, but also EW! 5. Sales FloorImagine being hired and thrown on the floor without training. I have been there. It’s not uncommon in the restaurant or sales business. And surprise, this woman was hired in sales at Lowes. (Although several home Depot employees confirmed this happens all the time). She was doing his first-day onboarding paperwork and training videos when the manager came in and told her to take over the sales floor. “No training, computer logins, no idea where anything in the building was, who any of the dozens of other people wandering around were, or even what was expected of me. Just go solo in a department that usually had between five and eight staff at any time.” She said she walked out immediately. 6. Door-to-Door SalesmanSomeone explained taking a job that was allegedly an office salary position. However, when they got there, it was door-to-door sales, commission only. They clarified they didn’t even allow them to explain their ridiculous attempts to suggest the job was better than the one they advertised and interviewed them for initially. 7. False AdvertisingOne user confessed they hired a job ad in a paper for $8.50 an hour when the minimum wage was $5 in their state (2005). After going through the hiring process, their paperwork stated $5.50. So they mentioned it and were dismissed as “mishearing them.” So they brought up that the ad said $8.50. She replied, “I am 17 and have no experience. I should be grateful for the opportunity to gain some valuable work experience. I’ll take the $5.50 and be happy with it.” They chose to walk out. A couple of weeks later, they called back for a $ 6-an-hour opportunity, despite still having an ad stating they paid $8.50! 8. You Can Wash DishesA former Wendy’s employee said the assistant manager, whose only job seemed to be pacing behind them during lunch rushes, repeating in a dull monotone, “C’mon, let’s make those burgers. C’mon, let’s go faster. Make those burgers.” When they didn’t make burgers fast enough because the only training consisted of watching a 30-minute video, the manager sneered, “Why don’t you just go wash dishes, then? You CAN wash dishes, can’t you?” They walked off the job immediately. 9. Towed Car“I was specifically told to park in a certain lot to pick up my parking sticker on the first day.” One noted that their almost manager met them at the front of the building to walk them to security, get my sticker, and show them around. They said the boss was a jerk for three hours, condescending, and didn’t answer their questions about employment. Eventually, they walked out to vape and put the sticker on, and they towed the car because it didn’t have a sticker yet. “I called my sister to pick me up but never returned to that place. $250 to get my car and a waste of a day.” 10. Mandatory Prayer and PatriotismFinally, (how is this legal), one user explained, “They forced us to pray together every morning and recite the pledge of allegiance.” Needless to say, they walked out. We hope you enjoyed these Redditor stories of why people left their jobs on the first day. Have you ever quit a job on the first day? Let us know in the comments! Feature Image Credit: alphaspirit.it via Canva.com. More From My Life, I GuessWhat is the worst job you’ve had? If you’ve ever had a job that made you dread waking up in the morning, you’ll want to read this article. We asked people to share their stories about the worst jobs they’ve ever had, and the responses we received were eye-opening. Continue Reading: 10 of the Absolute Worst Jobs in the History of Making Money Should I Quit My Job?Yes, you should quit your job. Actually, that’s only true if you felt a huge sigh of relief when you read that sentence. If, on the other hand, you reacted with skepticism or apprehension, quitting may not be the right move. Read on to see what’s the right move! Continue Reading: Should I Quit My Job? I Hate My Job But Can’t Quit: What to Do When You’re StuckDo you jump out of bed each morning with a smile on your face, excitedly anticipating the work-day ahead of you? Or do you lay there as your alarm goes off, seriously contemplating just rolling over and going back to sleep, thinking, “I hate my job, anyway. So what if I get fired?“ Hopefully, your answer is closer to the first option. But if you’re reading this, my guess is that this isn’t the case. Continue Reading: I Hate My Job But Can’t Quit: What to Do When You’re Stuck Via https://mylifeiguess.com/10-honest-reasons-people-ran-out-of-new-jobs-on-their-first-day/ Are you tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a financial rut? Do you dream of a life where you’re not constantly worrying about money and being in debt? You’re not alone. This is the case for millions of people. But what if I told you that you could get out of debt in 5 easy steps? Even though it sounds too good to be true, it’s not. There are proven strategies you can use to get yourself out of debt and onto the path of financial freedom. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be a painful or difficult process. By following these simple steps, you can transform your financial future in no time! 1. Look at your costs and figure out where you can save moneyThe first step to getting out of debt is to spend less money. Once you’ve figured out where you can save money, you can start making changes, even if they are small ones. Do you really need that expensive coffee? Can you go out to eat less? Can you find ways to have fun that are cheap or free? If you don’t know where to start, there are a few helpful tools that can help you figure out how much money you spend:
2. Make a spending plan and stick to itAfter figuring out where you can save money, make a budget. This will help you stay on top of tracking your spending and make sure you don’t spend too much. There are several ways to make a budget, but the envelope system is one of the easiest. With this method, you will put a certain amount of cash into an envelope for each type of expense, such as housing, food, entertainment, etc. Once the money in the envelope is gone, you can’t spend any more money in that category until the next month. This system can be helpful because it lets you see where your money is going and keeps you from spending more than you need to. You can also use software or a spreadsheet to keep track of your spending. This can take more time, but if you’re already on your phone or computer, it’s more productive and helpful than mindlessly scrolling through social media. No matter which method you choose, it’s important to stay within your budget. If you make a budget and then don’t stick to it, it won’t help you at all. So, make sure your budget is realistic. 3. Get extra money by doing side jobs or selling things you don’t useThere are many ways to make extra money and pay off your debts faster. Side jobs like freelancing, pet sitting, and dog walking can be a great way to make extra money in your spare time. They don’t require extensive training or experience and cost nothing to start. If you’re anything like me, you probably have a bunch of unused items lying around your home that could be sold for some extra cash. Maybe it’s an old bike, a collection of vintage records, or kitchen gadgets you never use. Whatever it is, selling these items online or at local garage sales can be an easy and effective way to generate some quick money. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to declutter your home. Related: 300+ New Side Hustle and Small Business Ideas 4. Talk to your creditors to lower your interest rates or monthly paymentsIf you’re having trouble making your monthly payments, talk to your creditors and try to negotiate a lower interest rate or smaller monthly payment. Creditors are usually willing to work with people who are having money problems, so it’s worth a try. There are a few different ways to go about negotiating this deal. You can talk to a customer service rep or send a formal letter to your creditor. If you decide to call, make sure you have your account number and a clear idea of what you want to ask for before you pick up the phone. If you decide to write a letter, start by giving a short summary of your current financial situation and why you can’t pay your bills. Be polite and respectful, and include any proof that might help your case. For example, if you’ve lost your job or had a medical emergency, include copies of the paperwork that proves it. After you’ve told the creditor what’s going on, say what you want from them. Again, be specific and include any documents that back up your claim. Creditors are more likely to work with you if they can see that you’re really having trouble, so don’t be afraid to be honest about your finances. At the end of your letter, thank the creditor for taking the time to read it and restate what you want. Make sure to keep a copy of the letter for your records and send it via certified mail so you have proof that it arrived. If you don’t feel comfortable negotiating on your own, there are also many reputable companies that can help you settle your debts. Just make sure to do your research before choosing one because some companies have high fees and may not be able to get you the best deal. Related: Debt Consolidation Loans Explained: 6 Things You Need to Know 5. Stay disciplined and motivated all the way through!The last and most important step to getting out of debt is to stay disciplined and motivated all the way through. This can be hard, especially if you have had debt for a long time. But it’s important to stick to your plan and not give up. You can help yourself stay on track by doing a few things. First, make sure you have a clear goal that you can reach. Writing down your goal and putting it somewhere you will see every day can help. This will help you remember why you’re working and keep you going. Second, make and stick to a budget. This will help you keep track of what you spend and make sure you don’t spend too much. Tracking your progress will also show you how far you’ve come. Seeing the results of your hard work can help motivate you to keep going. Lastly, take a look at the people around you. Do you have supportive friends and family that are positive influences? Is there anyone in your life who is also working to become debt-free or has overcome debt? Sharing your journey with others who understand your situation can be incredibly empowering and motivating. Get Rid of Debt for GoodBecoming debt-free is a great goal, and if you work hard and stay on track, you can reach it. With these five steps, you should be able to get out of debt quickly. As long as you keep yourself motivated and follow your plan, you’ll be out of debt before you know it. Related Articles
This article originally appeared on mylifeiguess.com. Image Credit: shisuka via Canva.com. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/get-debt-free/ When you’re looking to improve your credit score, whether it’s to secure a better mortgage deal or simply access funds to get your finances back on track, you’ll be faced with a lot of advice. Unfortunately, not all of this advice is accurate. There are a lot of common misconceptions and myths about what does and doesn’t affect your credit score, as well as how to fix it. Myth 1: You Only Have 1 Credit ScoreFirst of all, there isn’t one universal credit score. Each country has its own credit agencies or bureaus, each with its own reports. For example, there is Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion in the United States; Equifax and TransUnion in Canada; and Experian, Equifax, and Callcredit in the UK. So you will have more than one credit score, but it should be similar with each agency. If you do have different scores it could be because one of your creditors reported their information to one agency and not the other. Or it could vary depending on how often your credit information is updated. Myth 2: Taking Out Credit Damages Your ScoreMany people believe that taking out credit damages your score, but the opposite can be true – if you do so responsibly. Making multiple applications for credit will result in numerous hard searches appearing on your credit report, which can put off prospective lenders. However, borrowing through a credit card or other loan and meeting repayments on time is the simplest way to help build your credit score. It will only be damaged if you take out credit and fail to meet repayments. Related: How Many Credit Cards Should I Have? – Good Credit Card Habits to Build Myth 3: Your Partner’s Score Impacts YoursFor some reason, many think their partner’s credit score will affect their credit score. But it doesn’t. Getting married has no direct impact on your credit score. Even if you marry someone with a poor credit score or a history of missing payments. Your partner’s credit score will only impact yours if you have any loans that you take out together. Or if you end up facing some financial hardships as a couple. My husband has a good credit score but didn’t have much credit history when we met. So we have been working together to help him build one. When we bought our new car, we put both of our names on the loan. With each monthly payment, his score and history improve, so we will be in better shape when we look into getting a mortgage. Myth 4: Checking Your Own Credit Score is BadIf you want your credit score to improve quickly, checking your credit score daily can be tempting. The good news is that you can give in to this temptation (if you really want to). Checking your own score is not recorded on the report anywhere. Only hard checks banks and lenders make when you apply for credit are stored on your report. Regularly checking your credit score is a good idea and shows that you are taking responsibility for managing your credit. But obsessing over it isn’t healthy. Most credit agencies update weekly or monthly, so there isn’t much point in checking it daily. Instead, you can sign up for free credit score and credit report monitoring with places like Credit Karma and Borrowell. That way, you are alerted whenever there is a change to your credit score, and you don’t have to check on it every day. Myth 5: Never Close Your AccountsClosing a bank account or credit card doesn’t always have a negative impact on your credit score, but it can. So it’s important to be aware of what effects closing an account could have. Closing an account with little or no funds and a short history will have minimal effect on your credit score and may not impact it at all. However, closing a credit card with a balance owing on it can hurt your score. So it’s usually better to leave your account open, especially if that account is in good standing. The same goes if you close a credit card that you don’t use. Closing it will likely lower your score because it affects your credit utilization ratio. Credit utilization is a big factor in calculating your credit score. It essentially compares the amount of credit you have available (such as a credit card with a $5,000 limit) to the amount of credit you are using (such as having a balance of $3,000 owing on that card). Closing a card you don’t use means you are reducing the amount of available credit, and your credit utilization will go up. It is important to consider your spending habits, though. If having an open credit card will tempt you to spend, it might be worth taking the hit to your credit score now by closing the card so that you don’t end up further in debt. Related: How to Dispute a Credit Report Error Myth 6: A Better Job and Better Income Improves Your ScoreHaving a better income will improve your ability to make all your payments on time and rely less on credit, but it doesn’t automatically mean you will have a better credit score. Bank balances don’t appear in your credit report, nor does your income. So when it comes to your credit score, don’t worry about how much is in your bank account. You could have a lot of money but miss making payments, which would hurt your score. Or you could have little savings but make all your payments on time and have a great score. Even though I’ve always lived paycheck to paycheck (or close to it), I had a good (if not great) credit score because I prioritized keeping up with my payments as best as possible. Related: Is Switching Jobs a Lucrative Career Tactic? Myth 7: Your Credit Score = Your ValueMany people, especially those in the personal finance world, put a lot of emphasis on credit scores. And yes, it does matter when it comes to borrowing money – but that’s the only time it matters. You can be an amazing person and have a low score. Or you could be a horrible person and have a great score. One has nothing to do with the other. Your credit score has nothing to do with your value as a person. If your credit score isn’t so great, don’t let the social stigma get to you. No one in your life even has to know your credit score other than yourself (and maybe your partner). Instead of worrying about other people’s thoughts, focus on improving your credit score. Pay your bills on time and pay down your debt. When the time comes that you do need to apply for credit, you will have a better score and have nothing to be ashamed of. Understanding how credit scores and credit reports work is an important part of personal finance and money management. It can help you make informed decisions regarding your credit and borrowing money, avoid falling for any of these misconceptions or myths and help you effectively build a better credit score. YOUR TURN: What misconceptions about your credit score did you believe? Please leave a comment and let us know!Related Articles:
Via https://mylifeiguess.com/misconceptions-about-building-a-good-credit-score/ So, you and your partner have decided to move in together, a significant milestone in any relationship! You might be apprehensive or perhaps jumping up and down in excitement. Whichever way you might be feeling, thinking things through and considering the important factors of living with your partner will help you tackle this process. You and your significant other should discuss your responsibilities in your new shared space as well as finances, a huge factor in any relationship. Your future goals, both joint and individual, are at play here as well. Living with each other is just the start of a new part of your relationship, so read on to learn more about how to prepare to move in together. Are You Both Ready?You’ve probably already talked about this with your partner, but it’s smart to consider the question again. Moving in together, and therefore living with each other is no small step and should not be taken lightly. Sharing the same space can be a challenge as you learn the smallest details about each other. Additionally, the transition to seeing each other all the time is likely going to be a big change as well, which will make individual time even more important. The smallest habits and tiniest quirks that seem cute at first may be a whole different situation once you start living together! While knowing if you’re ready isn’t always the easiest, you’re already ahead if you and your partner have a good history of resolving conflict and maintaining respectful and open communication. Having a healthy relationship only sets you up for success later down the road when tacking new goals and challenges such as moving in with one another. Related: 14 Cheap At-Home Date Night Ideas Talk FinancesFinances are one of the most important moving pieces to combining lives, so you and your partner will want to take a close look at each other’s spending habits and financial goals. You likely already have an idea of how the other spends money, but with cohabitating, you’ll be sharing a variety of different living expenses. You will both need to explore what works for your relationship, as there are several different ways to combine finances. You can split expenses down the middle, take turns, or designate specific bills to each person, or anything in between! In the end, your financial situation will be unique to your relationship so it’ll be up to you to find out what works best. Looking into the potential future, you and your significant other will want to ponder the kind of goals you want to achieve together. One of these goals may be to get married within the next few years. If you do plan for a wedding in the future, that’s going to be an event you’ll want to set aside some money for. Having kids is another big decision that will require some financial planning if you decide to start a family. Down the line, you may also want to buy your first house one day. You’ll want to get a mortgage pre-approval to determine how much money you can borrow to purchase a home. This will help you figure out where you may want to live and what kind of house you’ll be able to buy, and from here you will be able to create a financial plan to help you achieve these goals. Handle Chores and ResponsibilitiesWhen living with your significant other, you’ll need to determine how you will both split regular chores, such as cleaning, grocery shopping, and cooking. No one person can do it all, so you’ll need to find the balance in your relationship to make tackling all the responsibilities a breeze. Much like your finances, you can choose to designate specific chores to each other or share them. Dealing with chores is a responsibility that needs to be taken care of by both parties, as resentment is sure to build if one person isn’t pulling their weight. You can alternate responsibilities by the day or week, or stick to your own set of chores. Whichever way you decide to split your home responsibilities, make sure to communicate and find out what works best for the both of you. Give Yourselves Individual TimeA big aspect of moving in together is all the time spent with your significant other. Even if you were spending a lot of time together before moving in, this new space will be shared between you equally, and living together is going to be a change. It is especially important for each party to find alone time from each other. It’s not necessary or healthy to spend 24/7 with each other, and alone time once or twice a week will only make the time you spend together even more valuable. While it can be easy to fall into a routine with your partner, you want to make sure you are living your own life and dedicate time to your own personal hobbies and passions. This will help you maintain a sense of individuality, which will only enhance your relationship. Self-growth is an ongoing journey and taking time to yourself to pursue further personal growth will only add what you can bring to the table in your relationship. Consider the FutureYou and your partner will be taking a big step in your relationship by moving in together, so it’s crucial to consider the rest of the future.
These things require planning in advance as well as financial preparation as marriage, relocation, a house, and having children or pets are a financial commitment as well as long-term goals. You may not know all of the answers yet, and that’s okay! Or, perhaps you and your partner have already spoken about these things and have an idea of the kind of life you want to live. Either way, this is a new chapter in your relationship, and being on the same page as your partner will help you both in navigating future obstacles. Preparing for Your New Life TogetherMoving in together can be a big milestone, and there’s a lot to discuss before jumping on a place together. But by considering your finances, future, and how you’ll manage to live together as a unit, you both set yourselves up for success. As long as you and your significant other communicate openly and honestly, you’ll be able to tackle any future challenges and achieve both your individual and joint goals. Related Articles
This article originally appeared on Life on a Discount and has been republished by My Life, I Guess with permission. Image Credit: Gpoint Studio via Canva.com. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/move-in-with-your-partner/ When you first bought or rented a property with a garden you probably imagined lots of lazy afternoons spent relaxing or even hosting many family barbecues with crowds of guests enjoying themselves. But be honest with yourself, how much benefit are you actually getting out of your garden? Life gets in the way of us relaxing so often. When we work to live, it usually ends up being more a case of living for work. And if you do get a brief respite from the daily grind, you often just want to lock yourself indoors and binge on TV. You may not even manage to get out into it much in order to maintain your garden, which just feels like another chore. But that is not how it should be. You should make every effort to get outside and enjoy your garden for what it is. Here are some simple tips to motivate you to really get the best out of your outdoor spaces. 1. Start Hosting More BarbecuesStart inviting people over for a barbecue. There is no better way to make yourself do something that you would typically have backed out of or put off. Set a date and force yourself to socialize. Plus barbecues make great birthday party ideas! Get your favorite BBQ products and accessories set up so that you can cook some great food. Ask people to bring a their own drinks and a few appetizers to help keep the costs down. Often guests are more than happy to contribute to the occasion. 2. Install a Bird FeederHaving a bird feeder means that you will get plenty of wildlife in your garden. Watching the bird’s visit can be very relaxing and also very captivating at the same time. This will be a great way of motivating yourself to spend more time in your garden relaxing. 3. Brighten the Place UpMaybe there is something that makes your garden a bit depressing to spend time in. If you give the place a facelift, you might be much happier spending time out there. This may mean that you need to paint the walls, power hose the patio, mow the lawn, or plant some flowers. But if you feel comfortable in the space, you will be inclined to want to get out there more. Getting an outdoor heater or a fire pit may also make you want to stay outside until much later, where you may not have spent much time out there later on in the day otherwise. 4. Plant Some VegetablesHaving vegetables growing in your garden will mean committing to taking care of them. Find out the best types to grow in the area that you have, and work out when the best times to plant them will be. You will have to keep looking after them by watering them and stopping insects from eating them, but at the end of it all, you will have fresh, homegrown vegetables for you to enjoy. Unlocking the Full Potential of Your GardenYour garden is not just a piece of land, it is a place where you can relax, entertain, and connect with nature. With some simple tips like hosting more barbecues, installing a bird feeder, brightening up the place, and planting some vegetables, you can motivate yourself to spend more time outside and appreciate the benefits of having a garden. Related Articles
This article originally appeared on Life on a Discount and has been republished by My Life, I Guess with permission. Image Credit: halfpoint via Canva.com. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/enjoy-your-garden/ If you are someone who doesn’t mind burning the midnight oil and working while the rest of the world sleeps, there are many great night shift jobs out there that are in high demand. Night shift jobs, which are also referred to as 3rd shift or graveyard shift jobs, are a lot more common than people realize. Night shifts are critical in 24-hour industries. And with more opportunities to work from home online, employees may be in completely different time zones and have to work overnight. Some people prefer to work at night, while others have no other choice to make ends meet and support their family. Anyone willing to work unconventional hours can not only find a job fairly easily, but can make pretty good money as well. Pros of Working a Night Shift JobWhy would anyone want a job with an unusual work schedule? There are some clear advantages to working overnight. These include:
Cons of Working a Night Shift JobOn the other hand, there are also disadvantages to working the night shift, such as:
If the pros outweigh the cons, here are some of the best night shift jobs available, ranging from entry-level part-time roles to highly specialized occupations. Emergency & Protective Services RolesPolice OfficerPolice officers work around the clock to keep our streets safe. From the easier tasks of issuing traffic tickets and patrolling the area to the more serious responding to calls, making arrests, and conducting investigations, no two shifts will be the same! A career as a police officer can be fascinating and rewarding. Constables start with a salary in the mid $40,000 while the Chief of Police makes an average of $95,000 per year. FirefighterStaying in the realm of public service, you could choose to go the route of a firefighter and save people’s lives (and their properties). If you are part of a city budgeted fire department, expect to work 24-hour shifts; however, you can usually do other things like sleep on the job or work out, unless there’s an emergency call. Firefighters earn an average annual salary in the mid $40,000, but states like New York and New Hampshire pay higher. Paramedic or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)Working as a paramedic or EMT alongside other first responders is another rewarding public service job that requires trained, professional staff at all times. The average salary is a bit lower, in the $38,000 – $42,000 range, but there are a lot of over-time hours available if you’re able to work longer shifts. 911 DispatcherIf you are a good listener who can think quickly but prefers not to be on the front-lines, you could help people in crisis by working as a 911 dispatcher. Providing immediate assistance to people in need is challenging, but you are truly making a difference. Depending on where you live and your level of experience, dispatchers can make anywhere from $13 – $35 per hour. Corrections OfficerI spent 2 years of my life “in jail” working as support staff alongside dozens of correctional officers. Although I got to spend my evenings and weekends at home, my coworkers were responsible for the inmate’s safety and security at all times. Barring any significant threat, the job is generally easier when you work night shifts. You can do things like reading a book to help you stay awake, so long as you can multi-task in the unlikely scenario that there is a threat. Security GuardWhether it’s an office building or a shopping mall, many major commercial and industrial properties require round-the-clock security to monitor and protect the facility throughout the night. While security guards are also needed during the day, you might find you have an easier time in the middle of the night as you generally have to deal with few to no people. In many cases, you are the first line of defense, but ultimately your job is to call local authorities if the situation involves any legit threat. Healthcare & Caretaking RolesNursing & Personal Support WorkerAn obvious option for anyone who wishes to work in the healthcare field, particularly a hospital or assisted living facility, is nursing. When caring for the sick and elderly, these industries depend on providing care around the clock. Nurses, nursing assistants, and personal support workers are always in high demand – especially for the third shift. Working the night shift is a lot less stressful. Visitors are not usually allowed, and most patients are sleeping. So baring the occasional emergency situation, expect most of your shift to be distributing necessary medication and just keeping an eye on those trying to sleep and get better. ER DoctorLike nursing, the demand for a doctor’s care never ends, especially in the emergency room. It’s not an easy job, but with an average salary of $250,000, an ER doctor earns $100,000 more than general practitioners. You likely won’t find a higher paying night shift job than this. Medical ProfessionalMany professional medical services require working at night, such as sonographers, ultrasound technologists, MRI technologists, radiologists, neuroscientists, and lab technicians. Many of these roles require the use of highly specialized equipment that is also being used by the ER. Staff needs to be available at all times in case of an emergency, but they also need to book appointments for non-emergency patients. For this reason, many hospitals offer appointments 24/7. Veterinary Technician & Emergency VetPets have emergencies, too. They can also get sick or injured and require overnight care. A vet or vet tech can either work on-call to respond as needed or might be scheduled to work the night shift to treat animals in need. CaregiverConsider being a caregiver if you can see yourself enjoying working with the elderly or people with disabilities, mental health issues, or special needs. While most caregivers are generally assigned to help people with their daily tasks, some patients may require overnight supervision or assistance. While caregivers don’t generally make a lot of money, anyone who chooses to work the overnight shifts in this industry will likely earn an income that’s above the top range of a daytime caregiver’s annual salary. Overnight Babysitting & NannyingAre you good with children? If so, you should look into being a nanny or overnight babysitter. A family might need to occasionally leave their child unattended and require someone to visit and monitor children throughout the night. Or the parents might need to travel for work or work the night shift themselves and need a responsible adult around. Babysitters are typically paid in cash, under the table, so this is a good option if you need money fast. As an overnight babysitter, you could charge a more premium rate, and since it would likely be for at least ten or so hours, you could make a pretty good day’s pay. Or, you could work as a nanny. Nanny’s might live with a family to provide around the clock childcare services in exchange for room and board, but they can also be paid by the hour and live on their own. Customer Service & Hospitality RolesCustomer ServiceEvery business that is open late at night, early in the morning, or 24 hours a day requires customer service staff. This could mean working as a cashier at a convenience store, answering the phones for a utility company, or dispatching tow-truck drivers. There are plenty of opportunities depending on your skills and the types of businesses in your community. Front Desk ClerkAlong the same lines are front desk clerks. While these positions are usually found in hotels, other organizations such as 24-hour gyms, college residence buildings, or substance abuse facilities also require front desk clerks. IT & Tech SupportCertain companies need to offer 24 tech support these days, especially if it’s an online or utility company. Companies also require IT professionals to do maintenance, install updates, and make back-ups overnight when the business is closed. Ranging from roles as a help desk technician helping customers troubleshot their tech problems for a salary of $40,000, to database and network administrators diagnosing server issues for $70,000 a year, there are great career options in IT that pay well. Restaurant & Fast Food WorkersRestaurants and other food service companies are open long hours, and they need people to prep before opening and clean up after closing. Between the coffee shops that open in the early morning, the bars and fine dining restaurants that stay open late, and the diners and fast food places that never close, there are plenty of different shift options in the restaurant industry. There are also different roles to choose from, including servers, cooks, bakers, drive-thru attendants, cashiers, cleaners, and shift supervisors. BartenderWhile bartending is not a 24-hour business, depending on where you work and when, a bartender could be on the clock up until 6 in the morning! Bartenders usually get paid a decent flat rate, but the amount of tips they can pull on a nightly basis or typical weekend shift can be quite lucrative. Getting certified as a bartender is easy to achieve, and once you master the art of making drinks at a fast pace, you should see quite a lot of tips come in. Retail & Grocery StockerMajor retail and grocery stores need people to restock the store shelves at night. It may not be glamorous, but it’s pretty straightforward and ideal for people that prefer to work alone. Shipping & Receiving or Warehouse WorkerOn that same note, businesses need staff available to accept and verify deliveries when a delivery truck arrives. And then, they need staff to unload the trucks and store the inventory properly. If you are physically fit and organized, this might be a good job for you. Transportation & Delivery RolesTaxi & Rideshare DriverFrom needing a safe ride home after a night out to getting to the airport on time for an early morning flight, taxi drivers or rideshare drivers can be busy at any time of day. This is a great job for anyone who has a clean driving record, knows their way around town, and doesn’t want to sit behind a desk. Truck DriverAnother industry that works around the clock is truck drivers. Truck drivers are known for pulling long hauls, and depending on their schedule, may have to work overnight to get deliveries to a site by morning. Drivers can make their own hours and may find their job is less stressful in the middle of the night because they don’t have to deal with traffic as much. It’s also a great way to see the world. Pilot & Airline StaffAnother great way to see the world is from above, working as a pilot or airline staff member. Although not all airports allow flights to take off or land in the middle of the night (usually due to sound restrictions), there are red-eye flights and time zone changes that mean you’ll be working overnight. Air Traffic ControllerYou may be surprised to learn that an air traffic controller is a 24-hour job. At major airports, passenger flights and cargo planes can come in at any hour of the day or night, and therefore they require an experienced professional to manage air traffic. Air traffic controllers are generally high paying jobs (wages start at $60,000 and go into $200,000!). If you choose to be the one to work the graveyard shift, not only will you find yourself dealing with much less air traffic than during the day time, you usually also get a higher bump in pay. Airport, Train, Bus & Subway Station StaffMany transportation hubs like airports, train stations, bus stations, and subway stations never close. Depending on the station’s demand and size, there are jobs available in customer service (ticket sales, information booths, currency converters, and car rentals), cleaning, baggage handling, maintenance, or working at a food kiosk. Creative & Entertainment RolesMedia RolesThe news never sleeps. Working as a journalist, broadcaster, TV or radio host, or a reporter is a great option for any night owl looking to have their news story break first thing in the morning. Although printed newspapers are becoming a thing of the past, people generally wake up and look at their phones to get the latest local news and updates from around the world. Freelance Writer or ArtistsA job that requires little more than an Internet connection is a job that can be done at any time of the day. So if you are a skilled writer, graphic designer, photographer, or whatever your talent may be, if it can be done online, why not start your own side hustle or small business? Casino DealerIn most casinos around the world, gambling never takes a breather. Someone must be there to work the blackjack and craps tables. While some dealers love the intensity of full crowds at their tables, some enjoy being able to do the same job at night when the tables are generally less busy. Dealers get paid a flat hourly rate, meaning they will get paid the same while dealing with fewer people. PerformerMusicians, singers, dancers, comedians, and other entertainers are often needed at special events or could have a regular gig with a local bar, nightclub, or concert venue. While it’s hard to make a living as a performer, you can get paid a good hourly rate. Labor & Trades RolesMachinistsIn some industrial industries, whether its utilities or manufacturing, the company might need to keep its doors open 24/7, whether it’s trying to upkeep productivity or if equipment needs to be on for numerous hours for testing. This is a prime opportunity to work for a big name manufacturer and get paid the big bucks to work overnight to contribute to the team. While these jobs tend to be more intense and required major safety training, this can be a lucrative career. ConstructionA lot of roadwork construction is done at night when traffic is less of a problem. The average construction worker makes $30,000 – $35,000 per year and only requires a high school diploma. There is a lot of on the job training that will teach you more about pouring asphalt, digging trenches, and preparing construction sites. An experienced project manager can make $150,000, and is responsible for things like getting permits, ensuring health and safety, and accounting. If you happen to have a criminal record, construction is one of the industries known to hire felons. Emergency MaintenanceThink about every service that you use (or might use) throughout your day. Plumbing, electricity, your furnace, your car – any of these things could break down or have issues that require a professional tradesperson. Jobs in the trades already pay well, but you can charge more to make emergency calls at any time, day or night. CustodiansSchools, hospitals, offices, and commercial buildings all require custodians to keep the places cleaned and maintained. This work is done outside of the business’s operating hours or peak times, which usually means you’ll be working at night. Mail SorterWhile most people who do business with the United States or Canadian postal service are used to dealing with this service in the daytime, the postal service is a 24-hour industry that requires people around the clock. In addition to delivering mail, one of the biggest jobs required is mail sorters. In most cases, this is a temporary job hired during busy seasons like the holidays when the mail volume requires extra hands throughout the night. These jobs generally are considered casual but pay reasonable hourly rates for some extra side income. Federal Employee RolesFinally, if you find the private industry does not suit you for a graveyard shift, you could consider being a civil servant and working as a Federal Employee. Many federal government jobs require around-the-clock staffing. When you work an evening shift, you can usually get differential pay up to 10%. Plus, being a federal employee comes with some of the best benefits out there over any private industry. What’s great about being a federal employee is that there are numerous possibilities of career paths you can take, many of which have the opportunity to pursue non-standard work hours. Some ideas are becoming a park ranger at one of the many national parks or a security guard at one of the many federal government buildings. Alternatively, if you want something less in the spotlight, you could pursue jobs at the Department of Energy monitoring infrastructure or working cybersecurity detail overnight. Tips for Night Shift WorkersAs a night shift worker, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help make your life easier:
Night shift jobs are not for everyone. They can really take a toll on your health and your relationships. However, if you prefer the pace of working at night, are a natural night owl, or are in a position where working nights is your only choice, there are plenty of options for part-time hourly work or full-time careers. This article originally appeared on mylifeiguess.com. Image Credit: oleksandrbedenyuk via Canva.com. Related Articles:
Via https://mylifeiguess.com/the-best-night-shift-jobs/ The detox trend of today doesn’t stop at weight-loss. There’s another popular detox that many, especially young people, are trying that improves your health and your mood – a digital detox. A digital detox means less screen time. It helps us eliminate our phone addictions, and gives us a break from the constant stream of notifications, social media updates, emails, and other digital distractions that often dominate our daily lives. By unplugging from technology, we can reconnect with the present moment and the people around us, reduce stress and anxiety, improve our sleep quality, and boost our productivity and creativity. It gives us time to focus on the things that really matter. Here’s how to implement your own “digital detox” for a better and more effective life! 1. Turn off notificationsNew update notifications from social networks and emails that are constantly flashing on your screen will distract you. If you keep picking up your phone to check what’s going on, you won’t be able to fully devote yourself to what you need to get done. So turn off your notifications or put your phone on silent or do not disturb. The updates will still be there when you are done your work and need a break. 2. Use paper to take notesInstead of using your phone or laptop to save information and take notes in meetings or brainstorming sessions, use a good old-fashioned paper and pen. When you use technology, it is very easy to click on other tabs such as reading the news, surfing social media, or “just check your email real quick”. 3. Wear a watchIf you have a habit of checking the time with your phone, switch to wearing a watch. The less contact you have with your phone, the less likely you are to be tempted by YouTube, or Amazon, or Candy Crush. Related: Working from Home? Make Every Minute Count with These 5 Time Management Hacks 4. Social media detoxFacebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter help us connect with friends, relatives and a whole world full of useful information and interesting people. However, social networks also waste a lot of our time. If you want to save time surfing social networks, learn to control yourself. Schedule social networking at a fixed time of the day or set limits on your device. On another note, if someone regularly shares things that make you uncomfortable or causes negative emotions, stop following that person. You can’t control what other people post, but you have complete control over them showing up as you scroll through your feeds. 5. Cell phones are not allowed on the dining tablePhones should not be present on your dining table, even if you just leave it there and do nothing. Our brain will subconsciously wait for the screen to light up, and we cannot focus on the conversation with the person we’re eating with. It makes us look very rude and impolite. Worse still, glancing at our phones also distracts us from eating. One study found that people ate more if they were using their phones at the same time. So a digital detox can also help you manage your weight. 6. Don’t bring your phone to bedWe often have a habit of “playing” with our phones before going to sleep. But before you know it, it’s midnight and you’ve spent the last hour or so mindlessly scrolling. The blue light from the screen will trick our brain into thinking it’s still daytime, which screws up your circadian rhythm or “body clock.” Good luck trying to get to sleep now! If you use your phone as an alarm clock and keep it next to your bed, you should immediately break this habit. You could buy yourself an alarm clock or leave your phone somewhere you can’t reach it from bed. Related: Goodbye Sleepless Nights: 12 Simple Tricks for a Better Night’s Sleep 7. Hide your phoneInitially, if you find it difficult to leave your phone alone when doing things that require concentration, remove the temptation and put it in the drawer. If it’s out of sight, it’s easier to also be out of mind. While it may be difficult at first to resist the urge to check your phone or other devices, over time, you may find that you become more comfortable and focused without them. This is because constantly checking our phones and other devices can create a cycle of distraction and dependence, which can be difficult to break. The more we engage with digital technology, the more our brains become wired to seek out the stimulation and rewards that it provides, such as likes, comments, and notifications. However, by consciously choosing to reduce our screen time and engage in other activities, we can rewire our brains to prioritize different kinds of rewards, such as the satisfaction of completing a task, or the enjoyment of spending time with loved ones. 8. Participate in activities where you can’t hold your phoneRegularly practice sports or yoga, go to the gym, or sit in classes that require concentration and do not use phones. The more activities like this in your day, the less habitual phone use will be. This is not only a digital detox method but can also prevent social and emotional issues. Spending too much time on social media or other digital platforms can contribute to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. It can also interfere with face-to-face communication and social interactions, leading to a sense of disconnection from others. Participating in a sport or activity with others give you that social interaction you need. Finding Freedom in DisconnectingWhile a digital detox can offer many benefits, it can also be challenging for those who are used to being connected to technology around the clock. It may take some effort and discipline to break the habit of constantly checking our devices and to resist the urge to pick them up during our detox period. However, the rewards of a digital detox can be significant, helping us to find balance and regain control over our technology use. With the tips above, we hope your detox helps you create a more balanced and fulfilling relationship with technology and enjoy the many benefits of a life lived offline. Related Articles
This article originally appeared on mylifeiguess.com. Image Credit: View Apart via Canva.com. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/digital-detox/ |
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