ResidentialBusiness

Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it. It requires a conscious decision because it is a countercultural lifestyle that stands against the culture of overconsumption that surrounds us. The world we live in is not friendly to the pursuit of minimalism. Its tendencies and relentless advertising campaigns call us to acquire more, better, faster, and newer. The journey of finding simplicity requires consistent inspiration. For that reason, I hope you will make an effort this weekend to find a quiet moment with a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy some of these hand-picked articles to encourage more simplicity in your life. My Teenaged Son Still Doesn’t Have a Smartphone. Here’s Why | The Globe and Mail by Katherine Martinko. This is the first in a series of columns on Digital Minimalism from Katherine Martinko. I recommend all of them. 10 Things Minimalists Say You Don’t Need to Be Happy | No Sidebar. In a world that constantly tells us more is better, it’s easy to believe that happiness is just one more purchase away. But minimalists offer a different perspective. The Junkification of American Life | The New York Times by David Brooks. We have access to wonderful things. But they require effort, so we settle for the junky things that provide the quick dopamine hits. *Due to NYT policies, this article may not be available in every geographic region. A Lesson in Letting Go | Rich in What Matters by Julia Ubbenga. Are you holding onto items from loved ones out of fear or guilt? My hope is that, if you answered yes, then this lesson in letting go can help you too. Minimalism and Social Media | Balance Through Simplicity by Antonia Colins. It’s an amazing source of information and inspiration but can also be a tough space to hang out in and can take up our time and energy. Recently Released Inspiring Videos 10 Unnecessary Possessions to Ditch for a Simpler Happier Life | YouTube by Joshua Becker. Most of the stuff we are told to buy and own doesn’t bring us meaning or happiness—it only distracts us from it. Whether you’re already interested in simple living, or just looking for a more peaceful life, here are ten things you can live without and still live a happy life How to Improve your Self Esteem | YouTube by Joshua Becker. When our self-esteem is healthy, it affects everything about us. Equally so, when our self-esteem is unhealthy, it affects everything about us. If you’ve ever struggled with low self esteem, I want you to know that you aren’t alone. Here are 6 tips to help. — Uncluttered. If you’re looking for help trying to minimize your possessions, my 12-week course will help you own less, live more, and discover the life you want. But this is the last weekend to sign-up. Registrations ends Sunday, September 15. The experience begins on Tuesday. The post Inspiring Simplicity. Weekend Reads. appeared first on Becoming Minimalist. View the full article

Designing the most ideal office setup has never been a more open-ended process since hybrid work has become the norm. Enterprise technology tools have become essential for large businesses trying to stay connected across multiple offices. In fact, 83% of businesses with over 250 employees use video collaboration solutions. Balancing price, compatibility, and adaptability when deciding on your business technology can be hard, especially with multiple offices, but there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff when you choose a technology franchise that works seamlessly across locations. Video conferencing can make your workplace more efficient, but it’s dependent on which enterprise communication tools you choose. View the full article

A guide to Vientiane Khamsavath railway station, including station amenities, tickets, and transport to and from the station. Vientiane Khamsavath railway station (also known as Khamsavath railway station and Vientiane-Tai railway station) is a railway station that connects Vientiane to Thailand’s Northeastern Line. The new station and railway extension from the border means that it’s now possible to get the train from Bangkok to Vientiane. Khamsavath Railway Station map [Map of Khamsavath Railway Station About Vientiane Khamsavath Railway Station Khamsavath officially opened on 31 October 2023, and the first passenger service from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal arrived on 20 July, 2024. [Grand opening of Khamsavath 20/07/24.] There was previously a service from Nong Khai in Thailand to Thanaleng, which is just across the border. The line was extended by 7.5 km from Thanaleng to Khamsavath, making it possible to get the train from Bangkok to Vientiane. The line from Thailand to Khamsavath is a metre-gauge railway. Khamsavath is not connected to Vientiane Station of the Laos-China Railway, which is on a standard gauge. Immigration Trains from Thailand process Thailand immigration at Nong Khai, and Laos immigration is processed at Khamsavath. The eVisa isn’t available here, so check check the visa status of your country before arriving. [Immigration queue at Kamsavath.] Train tickets There is a ticket office for SRT trains and LCR trains. You would have no problem buying a ticket on the day for the Udon Thani train, but I would book in advance if you want a bed on the overnight train to Bangkok. [Thailand tickets at Khamsavath.] Laos-China Railway tickets are also available here, but I would also advise to book in advance. [Laos-China Railway tickets at Khamsavath.] The timetable of the trains are shown on the display screen. There is an overnight train from Bangkok that arrives in the morning. That train then returns to Thailand as the Vientiane – Udon Thani service. There is then an afternoon service from Udon Thani to Vientiane, and that train becomes the Vientiane to Bangkok overnight train. The sleeper carriages don’t travel to Vientiane. If you have a sleeper bed, then you get on the sleeper carriage at Nong Khai. Rapid 133/134 Krung Thep Aphiwat –Vientiane (Khamsavath) – Krung Thep Aphiwat Rapid 147/148 Udon Thani – Vientiane (Khamsavath) – Udon Thani [Khamsavath timetable.] There is a display showing the ticket prices to Thailand, but they scroll too fast to view. [Ticket prices from Khamsavath to Thailand.] Confirm ticket times and prices at dticket.railway.co.th. Facilities With only two trains a day in each direction, there are no shops open here yet. There is a currency exchange booth at the station, and the rates are reasonable. I check the buy and sell spread between the USD to get an idea if it’s a rip-off booth. I also check the rate on my currency app to be sure. You can pay for transport in Thai baht, but it’s good to get some change here if you are arriving with no Lao kip. [Check the spread between the buy and sell rates.] There is a coffee stand that opens when the trains are running. [Dao Coffee at Khamsavath.] There is a canteen area for a future food court, but it’s not open yet. [Khamsavath canteen.] There is nothing outside the station either, so don’t come here expecting to hang out at a nearby cafe before your train. Maybe the area will flourish in the future. I arrived at the station earlier so I could get some photos. The station name at the front is a good photo opportunity. Transport from Khamsavath Railway Station I was impressed with how organised the transport options are for passengers arriving on the overnight train from Bangkok. Temporary transport desks are set up before passengers arrive, and every type of transport option is represented. [Transport desks at Khamsavath Station.] There is a shuttle bus that goes to the Central Bus Station. This station is within walking distance of the old city area of Vientiane. [Shuttle bus from Khamsavath to Central Bus Station.] Two-row car service (like a songthaew in Thailand) has more options around the city. They list Morning Market, which is also the name used for the Central Bus Station. [Two-row car service from Khamsavath.] Tuk-tuk services are available, which is a good option if you are in a group. [Tuk-tuk service from Khamsavath.] Minivan services are available to share or book the entire vehicle. All of the transport options offer services to Vientiane Station for the Laos-China Railway. [Minivan service from Khamsavath.] Taxi services are also available. Like every over service, prices are clearly marked to the most popular destinations that a tourist is likely to go to. [Taxi service from Khamsavath.] Grab is not available in Laos, but there is the LOCA ride-hailing app if you already have that. All of these options were there for the passengers on the Bangkok train in the morning. I arrived on the evening train from Udon Thani, and there were no transport options available. There were only 10 people on my train so it wouldn’t make sense for all of these transport options to be operating. I approached a station worker and asked about transport, and they called a taxi for me. I was quoted 400 Thai baht ($11.77 USD / 260,000 KIP) to go to the city centre. I didn’t know if that was the right price, but it turned out to be the fair price. Getting from Vientiane city centre to Khamsavath With only one train a day to Bangkok, there aren’t regular buses to the station. I went to the station with every intention of looking for a bus, but ended up getting a taxi for 200,000 KIP ($9.07 USD / 308 THB). [The drive from Vientiane city centre to Khamsavath.] Getting from Vientiane Laos-China Railway Station to Khamsavath There are bus services from Vientiane Laos-China Railway Station to Khamsavath. There is a bus stop at the exit of the Vientiane Laos-China Railway Station, and services are clearly marked. If there isn’t a service to Khamsavath, you might be too early. Get the bus to the Central Bus Station and go to Khamsavath from there. [Bus service from Vientiane Laos-China Railway Station.] Future services With only two train services per day in each direction, there is not much happening at the station. Thailand is building a high-speed railway from Bangkok to Laos though this service may not got o Khamsavath. [Overpass to Platforms 2 and 3 for future trains.] There is a plan for a railway from Vientiane to Vung Ang in Vietnam, so who knows, maybe one day we will be getting trains to Vietnam from Khamsavath. [Departing Vientiane Khamsavath.] Subscribe to the Future Southeast Asia Newsletter to get updates about the high-speed railway project. Read more about the international train services in Southeast Asia. This train travel review is part of the Southeast Asia railways guide. View the full article

Those of you reading this blog, those interested in the pursuit of productivity and work-life balance, and all those nice things, probably have a lot of dreams. It’s something that binds us. We want to be better in more than one area of our lives. There’s our health, our social lives, our personal work—and the The post Mastering prioritization could change your life appeared first on RescueTime Blog. View the full article

I’m a big fan of minimalism. The benefits of owning only what you need to accomplish your greatest purposes are always better than the consequences of buying things you don’t need. I was introduced to minimalism by my neighbor 16 years ago, and my family of four was changed immediately. As a result, I write often about the benefits of minimalism. Here are just a few of those articles: 21 Life-Giving Benefits of Owning Less Minimalism vs. Consumerism: The Benefits of Choosing a Simple Life 12 Ways My Life Has Changed After 15 Years of Minimalism But every so often, I am challenged with a comment. The comment, on its premise, is incorrect and any deep-dive into my writing would show that. But still, it persists. 
The comment sounds something like this: Minimalism isn’t a magic solution for happiness, no matter how often you imply it is. And so I thought it might be helpful, once and for all, to make it clear that I do not believe minimalism is a magic solution for happiness. By overcoming the pursuit and accumulation of material possessions, we free up valuable resources in our life. By buying less, we have greater flexibility with our limited money. By owning less, we free up time for other things and remove the stress that comes from caring for more than we need. And by desiring less, we are able to direct our affections and passions elsewhere. But none of those changes automatically result in a better life. We are still required to be intentional with the lives that we live. If we replace the pursuit of physical possessions with the pursuit of something that is equally fading and stress-enhancing, we have only replaced one distraction with another and our change is in vain. For that reason, what we do after minimalism is just as important as our discovery of it. Again, I hope that is reflected in my writing: Dream Bigger Dreams Than Minimalism Why We Work 9 Ever-Present Distractions That Keep Us From Fully Living But let me be crystal-clear, minimalism will not solve every problem in your life. Here are just a few examples of the problems minimalism cannot solve: Minimalism will not heal a broken family relationship. Minimalism will not cure a chronic illness. Minimalism will not change an unhealthy marriage. Minimalism will not heal a broken heart. Minimalism will not overcome grief. Minimalism will not eliminate anxiety or depression. Minimalism will not erase past trauma or regrets. Minimalism will not change your boss. Minimalism will not resolve societal injustice or inequality. Minimalism will not show you the meaning of life. Minimalism will not show you the secret of happiness or contentment. There are LOTS of problems in life that minimalism cannot solve on its own. This list could even contain hundreds more. That being said, and this is important, what minimalism can do is free you up to more intentionally address each of those individual (and societal) problems that we encounter. Because once we remove the pursuit of physical possessions as the means to resolve our discontent, we are forced to dig deeper and work harder to find that solution. Let’s put to rest, once and for all, any insinuation that minimalism will solve all of our problems, both individually and as a society. We’ll need to look elsewhere for that. Minimalism merely frees us up to do it better! The post The Problems Minimalism Can’t Solve appeared first on Becoming Minimalist. View the full article

September 9, 2024 Happy Monday, folks! We wrote ​​this on​ Friday,​ but I think it's worth having the reminder today. Rest is non-negotiable for me. It can be simple, like lying in bed with my cats for 10 minutes, watching the mountains out of the window. What do you do to recharge? Vic Our Favorite Articles 💯The Remote Worker’s Guide to “Managing Up” (Todoist)The Todoist team shares three easy steps to show your worth at work as a remote worker. ​Read on​. Spain will pay digital nomads and remote workers in tech up to $17,000 to move to a rural region (CNBC)Spain's Extremadura region is offering grants to make your next work-from-anywhere spot a whole lot sunnier. ​More details ​​here.​ GABRIELLE LURIE-GettyImagesWorking From Home Is Powering Productivity (IMF)Next time anyone says that remote work hurts productivity, just send them this article by Bick Bloom. ​Find​​ it here.​ Remotive RecommendsTamilore Oladipo is a content writer at Buffer and a great person to follow if you are interested in writing content and advice on remote work. Check Tamilore's remote jobs newsletter and a fantastic CV template ​here​. This Week's Sponsor 🙌Work, Play, and Connect at Sinaia Nomad Retreat November 2024Join 40-50 digital nomads this November in Sinaia, Romania, for a unique work-and-play retreat. Enjoy private rooms, coworking spaces, co-cooking areas, gym and spa access, weekend trips, mountain hikes, and more. Contribute to local initiatives while exploring the stunning resort village. Early bird rate €360—reserve now! Secure Your Spot Now! ↗️ Remotive Jobs 💼Is this job for you? 👉 ​Senior Data Engineer at Proxify​ (CET +/- 3 hours) 👉 ​Senior Symfony Developer at Proxify​ (CET +/- 3 hours) 👉 ​Senior Golang Developer at Proxify​ (CET +/- 3 hours) Free Guides & Tools​Public Job Board​We curate 2,000 remote jobs so you don't have to! ​Find your remote job →​ ​Exclusive Webinar​3 Mistakes to Avoid When Looking For A Remote Startup Job (And What To Do Instead) ​Register for free →​ ​Job Search Tips​Looking for a remote job? Here are our tips to help you work remotely ​Check it out → Join the Remotive newsletter Subscribe to get our latest content by email. Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email address Subscribe Powered by ConvertKit View the full article

Note: The following article was published in the September 01 issue of Simplify Magazine. We often consider our food diet as the primary determinant of our health. And there is a lot of truth to that. What we eat determines quite a bit the physical body we live our lives in. But our “diet” extends beyond just what we eat. Every day, we consume countless other things: the media we watch, the books we read, the conversations we engage in, the news we encounter, and even the thoughts we entertain. Just as the food we eat impacts our physical health, these other forms of consumption significantly influence our emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. And in a world overflowing with information and stimuli, being mindful of our consumption becomes ever more critical. The choices we make about what to consume shapes our thoughts, attitudes, and ultimately our lives. And by practicing mindful consumption, we not only curate the external influences in our minds but we can also align our daily actions with our deeper values and goals. Mindful consumption may be one of the most important endeavors we can partake in. Let’s explore how we can approach this concept with intentionality, making choices that lead us toward a more meaningful and fulfilling existence. The Nature of Consumption Just as our physical health is impacted by the nutrients (or lack thereof) in our food, our mental and emotional health is influenced by the quality and type of our mental inputs. But these effects are not always felt right away. The full negative impact of an unhealthy diet isn’t felt the first day, but over a lifetime the cumulative effect determines who we become. Consider this: if we constantly consume negative news, we may begin to feel anxious or pessimistic about the world. If we follow social media accounts that promote unrealistic standards, we might start to feel inadequate or dissatisfied with our lives. Conversely, if we choose uplifting books, positive podcasts, life-giving spirituality, or meaningful conversations, we can foster a sense of hope, inspiration, and motivation. Not always the first day, but eventually … and always. Our society, as you know, often equates consumption with identity—what we own, what we wear, and what we showcase on social media. However, our greatest fulfillment in life will never come from external accumulation, but from internal alignment. By choosing mindfully, we can focus on consuming what nourishes our soul and positively impacts our life trajectory rather than what merely fills our time or, even worse, takes us down a road where we don’t want to go. But here’s the thing: Living with intention takes hard work and effort. The Importance of Intentionality Mindful consumption requires us to make deliberate choices rather than simply drifting along with the current of societal norms and expectations. It requires us to show up in our own lives every day. It means taking a step back and evaluating what we allow into our lives, understanding that not all consumption is created equal. It requires us to boldly evaluate when others are choosing unwisely and make decisions for ourselves. The line at the fast-food drive-thru is longer than the checkout at the grocery store produce department, but one reaps long-term health, the other unhealth. To live intentionally, we must first recognize that our life has value and is worthy of being lived well. And this is not an easy step for everyone. More than that, we recognize that our life is a sum of our daily choices. Every day presents new opportunities to choose differently, to select what aligns with our values rather than what is convenient or popular. Every new day is also a responsibility, to choose intentionality over and over again. Because if we don’t choose intentionality every day, someone else will begin to steer the ship. The foundation of mindful consumption begins with self-awareness. We must know who we are, what we value, what we want to accomplish, and whether our lives are moving in that direction. Once we have a clear understanding of these elements, we can make choices that support our goals and aspirations. Practical Steps for Mindful Consumption Before we go any further, I’d like to offer a list of different areas of life where we can apply mindful consumption (and how to do that): 1. Curate your media diet. Just as we choose healthy foods, we can choose nourishing media. Seek out news sources that offer balanced perspectives. Follow social media accounts that inspire and uplift rather than provoke comparison and jealousy. Choose books, podcasts, and shows that align with your values and contribute to your growth. 2. Limit negative influences. Negative influences are pervasive and often subtle. They can be found in the conversations we have, the content we consume, and even the environments we frequent. Identify these influences in your life and take steps to limit their impact. This might mean unfollowing certain social media accounts, avoiding gossip, or spending less time in environments or with people that drain your energy. 3. Engage in positive self-talk. Not all things we consume come from the outside. The stories we tell ourselves are a crucial part of our mental diet. Practice positive self-talk by affirming your strengths, acknowledging your progress, and being compassionate with yourself. This shift in internal dialogue can dramatically impact your overall well-being. 4. Choose your companions wisely. The people we spend time with significantly influence our mindset and attitudes. Surround yourself with individuals who support your values, encourage your growth, and challenge you to be better. These relationships are essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. 5. Simplify your digital space. Just as we declutter our physical spaces, we can simplify our digital lives. Unsubscribe from unnecessary newsletters, delete apps that distract rather than serve, and organize your digital files. This simplification reduces mental clutter and helps you focus on what’s truly important. 6. Be careful what television you consume. Entertainment is more than passive. As I learned in my college film appreciation class, every produced piece of content communicates messages to us—sometimes unintentionally, but usually intentionally. And not all television shows and movies are beneficial. Focus more on what is good and less on what takes you away from the person you want to be. 7. Set boundaries for screen time. Additionally, not just do we need to care about what we watch, but in our digital age, it’s easy to become consumed by screens. Set intentional boundaries for your screen time, whether it’s limiting time on social media, taking regular breaks from work emails, or designating screen-free times of day. This practice helps prevent burnout and promotes more meaningful offline interactions. 8. Prioritize quality over quantity. Whether it’s the content you consume or the possessions you own, prioritize quality over quantity. Choose items and experiences that truly add value to your life rather than accumulating more for the sake of it. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for what you have. 9. Reflect regularly. Take time to reflect on your consumption habits regularly. Are they aligned with your values and goals? Are there areas where you can make changes? Reflection helps you stay intentional and make adjustments as needed. The Benefits of Mindful Consumption Embracing mindful consumption offers numerous benefits. It is not always easy to be intentional, but it is always worth the effort. It helps us feel more in control of our lives, reduces stress, and fosters a deeper connection with our true selves. By making intentional choices about what we consume, we can: Improve our mental clarity. We can think more clearly, make better decisions, and pursue our goals with greater intention. Improve our emotional well-being. It helps us maintain a positive outlook and resilience in the face of challenges. Strengthen our relationships. By choosing to engage with positive influences and supportive people, we can build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Align with values. It allows us to live more authentically and purposefully, creating a life that reflects our true selves. Accomplish more with our lives. Ultimately, by becoming more intentional with the things we choose to consume, we live bigger lives of purpose and meaning. In a world that constantly bombards us with messages of more, more, more, mindful consumption offers a countercultural approach. It invites us to slow down, evaluate our choices, and prioritize what truly matters. By being intentional about what we consume—whether it’s food, media, relationships, or thoughts—we can cultivate a life of greater meaning and fulfillment. May we all find the courage to make intentional choices and the wisdom to consume mindfully. The quality of our lives depends on it. — Simplify Magazine is a quarterly, digital magazine that I started in 2017 to highlight experts and topics not frequently covered here on Becoming Minimalist. To date, we have edited and published 30 issues of the magazine—each covering a different theme. We just released the September 01, 2024 issue on the topic of Mindfulness. Since it’s founding, Simplify Magazine has offered lifetime subscriptions for a one-time payment of $20 (USD). You can join the community of over 250,000 readers right here. The post Mindful Consumption: Making Intentional Choices appeared first on Becoming Minimalist. View the full article

Every teacher wants to engage with their students well, which can be no easy feat in a hybrid classroom. Hybrid learning is any combination of remote and in-person learning. It’s a format that has grown in popularity in recent years, meaning more teachers are navigating a new style of instruction. Hybrid learning can include a mix of remote and in-person learners or elements of blended learning, like scheduling some sessions fully remotely or asynchronously and others in-person. Hybrid learning can be a huge asset to differentiate instruction and let students learn at their own pace. Still, teachers need to be intentional about how they execute a hybrid format to create engaging learning moments for young learners. View the full article

by Laura Stack, MBA, CSP, CPAE “Over-communicating is the glue that holds a high-performing team together and keeps them focused in the same direction. And, it circles back to clarity. Without good, consistent communication, you don’t have clarity.” ― Lee Ellis, leadership consultant, author, presenter, retired colonel, USAF. As managers, it’s drilled into us that we shouldn’t micromanage —that instead, we should hire well-qualified, intelligent self-starters, then give them their instructions and get out of the way. And while this strategy is generally sound, you’ll always find some exceptions that test the rule. In recent years, some business experts have begun backing off a bit from the approach outlined above, expounding on the virtues of overcommunication. In the past, we’ve been told not to overwhelm employees with information, and ideally to establish a single type of communication—whether face-to-face meeting, email, or phone — by which to convey our instructions. Overcommunicate subverts those concepts. But while it may seem intrusive, this doesn’t mean it it’s unnecessary. The business landscape has changed significantly in the past five years, largely in response to reality of COVID, the resulting lockdowns, and the concurrent rise of remote work. This may have forced changes in your direction, or may do so as you move forward. Therefore, consider overcommunication as an option, along with these five tips for wielding it. It need not be difficult or harsh. Applying overcommunication can prove as simple as a quick question: “How’s it going with the Kowalksy report?” Many manager already do this, so if you’re one of them, keep it up. Similarly, you can shoot someone an email occasionally just to check on a product’s status, or call as a follow-up to a meeting. Overcommunicate in times of crisis or change. When the future seems uncertain, keep in constant touch with your team. Make check-ins, updates, and follow-ups part of your regular tool-kit, providing consistent and clear communication to ensure everyone understands a project’s details and milestones. Make sure they know what you need of them, so you can keep team productivity on point. Under-communicating at such times, or even just communicating at normal levels, may make team members feel lost and confused. Overcommunicate to clarify messages from leadership. A single company-wide meeting won’t cut it, because even if your team members take copious notes, all the messages won’t get through to everyone. Reemphasize your organization’s mission, vision, goals, and priorities immediately after such a meeting, whenever someone new joins your team (even if it’s an in-company hire), and at regular intervals thereafter. Don’t flood them with such reminders, but do encourage your team to frequently reconsider your leadership’s messages. Overcommunicate with remote workers. The COVID and post-COVID eras have taught many employees they can work just fine remotely, which makes it doubly important they understand your directions. Overcommunication becomes a must, since (a) remote work may cause workers to lose their sense of acting as part of a team; and (b) Skype and Zoom notwithstanding, your team members can’t communicate with you face-to-face. Ask them to let you know if they’re confused, and follow up your instructions. Just don’t descend to the level of “infotoxication,” where overwhelm creates further confusion. Try multiple methods of communication. Here’s another point where the overcommunication focus breaks with tradition. Instead of sticking exclusively with one method of communicating information, orders, and directions to your team, mix it up a little. Again, after a meeting, you might send out emails clarifying the details of the new assignment. If you usually stick to email, follow up with calls, voice messages, or (if possible), face-to-face meetings with key team members. Steering Clear of Confusion Although the hands-off approach may be ideal, it doesn’t always reflect reality. Sometimes, you just have to talk too much for your directives to get through intact. Advertisers have practices this for at least a hundred years. It’s not as necessary in a newspaper, since newsprint is static, but think about it; how many times do radio and TV ads repeat their toll-free numbers? In their books, business opportunity gurus and marketers tend to repeat the same information at least twice, even three or four times. They realize you might miss it the first time around. Despite your careful charting of the course at the beginning of your trip, as with any voyage, you need to perform a reality check occasionally and then do whatever’s necessary to get back on course. Reality may have shifted in such a way that your original directions may not always apply, or your communication methods may have developed gaps that don’t let some things through. If this is true, it’s time to overcommunicate so your people understand everything you’re trying to tell them, in ways that help bridge any gaps. © 2024 Laura Stack. Laura Stack, MBA, CSP, CPAE is known as The Productivity Pro®. She is an award-winning keynote speaker, bestselling author, and noted authority on personal productivity. For 30+ years, she has given keynote speeches and workshops on increasing workplace productivity in high-stress environments. Stack has authored eight books, including the bestselling What to Do When There’s Too Much to Do. She is a past president of the National Speakers Association and a member of the exclusive Speaker Hall of Fame. To book Laura speak at an upcoming meeting or event, contact her at www.TheProductivityPro.com. View the full article

by Laura Stack, MBA, CSP, CPAE “Over-communicating is the glue that holds a high-performing team together and keeps them focused in the same direction. And, it circles back to clarity. Without good, consistent communication, you don’t have clarity.” ― Lee Ellis, leadership consultant, author, presenter, retired colonel, USAF. As managers, it’s drilled into us that we shouldn’t micromanage —that instead, we should hire well-qualified, intelligent self-starters, then give them their instructions and get out of the way. And while this strategy is generally sound, you’ll always find some exceptions that test the rule. In recent years, some business experts have begun backing off a bit from the approach outlined above, expounding on the virtues of overcommunication. In the past, we’ve been told not to overwhelm employees with information, and ideally to establish a single type of communication—whether face-to-face meeting, email, or phone — by which to convey our instructions. Overcommunicate subverts those concepts. But while it may seem intrusive, this doesn’t mean it it’s unnecessary. The business landscape has changed significantly in the past five years, largely in response to reality of COVID, the resulting lockdowns, and the concurrent rise of remote work. This may have forced changes in your direction, or may do so as you move forward. Therefore, consider overcommunication as an option, along with these five tips for wielding it. It need not be difficult or harsh. Applying overcommunication can prove as simple as a quick question: “How’s it going with the Kowalksy report?” Many manager already do this, so if you’re one of them, keep it up. Similarly, you can shoot someone an email occasionally just to check on a product’s status, or call as a follow-up to a meeting. Overcommunicate in times of crisis or change. When the future seems uncertain, keep in constant touch with your team. Make check-ins, updates, and follow-ups part of your regular tool-kit, providing consistent and clear communication to ensure everyone understands a project’s details and milestones. Make sure they know what you need of them, so you can keep team productivity on point. Under-communicating at such times, or even just communicating at normal levels, may make team members feel lost and confused. Overcommunicate to clarify messages from leadership. A single company-wide meeting won’t cut it, because even if your team members take copious notes, all the messages won’t get through to everyone. Reemphasize your organization’s mission, vision, goals, and priorities immediately after such a meeting, whenever someone new joins your team (even if it’s an in-company hire), and at regular intervals thereafter. Don’t flood them with such reminders, but do encourage your team to frequently reconsider your leadership’s messages. Overcommunicate with remote workers. The COVID and post-COVID eras have taught many employees they can work just fine remotely, which makes it doubly important they understand your directions. Overcommunication becomes a must, since (a) remote work may cause workers to lose their sense of acting as part of a team; and (b) Skype and Zoom notwithstanding, your team members can’t communicate with you face-to-face. Ask them to let you know if they’re confused, and follow up your instructions. Just don’t descend to the level of “infotoxication,” where overwhelm creates further confusion. Try multiple methods of communication. Here’s another point where the overcommunication focus breaks with tradition. Instead of sticking exclusively with one method of communicating information, orders, and directions to your team, mix it up a little. Again, after a meeting, you might send out emails clarifying the details of the new assignment. If you usually stick to email, follow up with calls, voice messages, or (if possible), face-to-face meetings with key team members. Steering Clear of Confusion Although the hands-off approach may be ideal, it doesn’t always reflect reality. Sometimes, you just have to talk too much for your directives to get through intact. Advertisers have practices this for at least a hundred years. It’s not as necessary in a newspaper, since newsprint is static, but think about it; how many times do radio and TV ads repeat their toll-free numbers? In their books, business opportunity gurus and marketers tend to repeat the same information at least twice, even three or four times. They realize you might miss it the first time around. Despite your careful charting of the course at the beginning of your trip, as with any voyage, you need to perform a reality check occasionally and then do whatever’s necessary to get back on course. Reality may have shifted in such a way that your original directions may not always apply, or your communication methods may have developed gaps that don’t let some things through. If this is true, it’s time to overcommunicate so your people understand everything you’re trying to tell them, in ways that help bridge any gaps. © 2024 Laura Stack. Laura Stack, MBA, CSP, CPAE is known as The Productivity Pro®. She is an award-winning keynote speaker, bestselling author, and noted authority on personal productivity. For 30+ years, she has given keynote speeches and workshops on increasing workplace productivity in high-stress environments. Stack has authored eight books, including the bestselling What to Do When There’s Too Much to Do. She is a past president of the National Speakers Association and a member of the exclusive Speaker Hall of Fame. To book Laura speak at an upcoming meeting or event, contact her at www.TheProductivityPro.com. View the full article

Want a comfortable and modern papasan chair for your home? They’re incredibly relaxing to sink into its soft cushion and watch a movie, study, or read a good book. These chairs are also ideal for various living spaces such as porches, kids’ rooms, living rooms, or dens. Some of them are also foldable, which is convenient for storage and transportation. In this review, I’ll list my favorite modern papasan chairs. View the full article

Thinking about buying a bungee cord chair for your home, backyard, or office? In this article, I’ll list my favorite chairs on the market for your needs. I’ll also talk about some important issues like whether these chairs are comfortable and safe for your back. View the full article

Every day, a large amount of time and effort is spent on measuring vibration levels in buildings, factories, and other equipment or structures. This is where an effective vibration meter becomes important. Thousands of machine designers, technicians, and engineers have become experts at measuring vibration levels and evaluating how objects are impacted by vibration. Here is my recommended list of the best vibration meters you should consider purchasing. View the full article

The right ergonomic setup for a teenager will go a long way to keeping them comfortable and focused on their studies. That’s why the right ergonomic study desk and a comfortable chair should be your number priority. So what home desk is right for your teenager? In this guide, I’ll mention things to consider like size, desk shape, storage, and more. I will also recommend and review my favorite desks available. View the full article

Although most of us will go to a pilates studio, some of my clients prefer to do their own routine at home. If you’re one of those people, you’re going to need to invest in a pilates reformer machine. In this review, I will recommend some of the best machines on the market, for whatever your skill level may be. View the full article

Are you looking for a comfortable ergonomic chair that’s a bit more stylish? People that appreciate mid-century office chairs are probably familiar with their minimalist shapes, bold colors, and clean lines. Today we celebrate the period of the 1930s to 1970s with some of the best chairs on the market. We know looks aren’t everything, so we included pieces that are made well and have stood the test of time. View the full article

Leather portfolios are a convenient and stylish way to keep yourself organized at work. So which portfolio is right for you? In this review, I’ve listed some of my favorite portfolios on the market that are functional and high quality. View the full article

As a mother and occupational therapist, I’ve always been interested in children’s ergonomics and how little attention we give it. If it’s important how adults sit, why wouldn’t it be the same for our children? And to be honest, it’s not that difficult to set your child up with an ergonomic workstation. Apart from a comfortable ergonomic chair, a kid’s adjustable desk are probably the two most important factors. Below you will find my recommended lists of kid’s desks, and also some chair and desk sets. View the full article

Being part of a remote or hybrid team can sometimes feel lonely, disconnected, or just lacking in the day-to-day office banter. And while having the right tech is the leading way to engage hybrid and remote teams, Slack and other team-building apps create an easy platform to initiate casual conversations throughout the workday, fostering a more inclusive environment. Whether you’re managing a Slack team or participating in groups in Slack, there are plenty of creative ways to engage with your colleagues and enhance team cohesion. View the full article

Here’s a thought exercise: imagine you finally manage to beat the procrastination motivation monster for once. (For many of us, that would already be a fantasy.) But say you sit down to work, full of beautiful productive motivation, ready to take on the day. Then what? Surely you’re going to try to get some work The post Multiply your productivity with a few small changes appeared first on RescueTime Blog. View the full article

Whether you’re doing a job at home or at a worksite, chances are you’ll need a reliable step ladder. So which step ladder is best for you? Selecting the right ladder for the task at hand is essential for your safety. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of choosing the best step ladder. I’ll also review and recommend some of the best ladders on the market. View the full article

If you have a limited budget or just want something simple, a minimalist desk for the office will be perfect. In this guide, I’ll list some of my favorite basic desks that are ideal for home offices. View the full article

Here’s a little not-so-secret secret: we all miss the mark sometimes. Sure, we’re all trying our best. We all have things we want to accomplish with our lives. We have a goal we’re chasing, and we’re determined to achieve it. We think about how great it would be if we could just get it done. The post Get your act together with SMART goals appeared first on RescueTime Blog. View the full article

We often think of technology as a new app or the latest smartphone, but few of us think of the power tech has in education. Although some time might have passed since you were last in school, tech is being used to update and advance our current education system. View the full article

Hey Remotive peeps, I'd love to know your favorite productivity tool. What is the one app that you cannot live without? Vic Our Favorite Articles 💯 Top 5 Highest Paying Remote Jobs Of 2024, From Research (Forbes)TL;DR: 3 out of the top 5 jobs are in technology. Learn more → Why Thailand is making it easier for travelers to stay longer (CNN)Time to pack your bags! One of the top spots for digital nomads is calling your name. See details → Why You Feel Underappreciated at Work (HBR)We've all been there! Here's what you can do about it. Read on → The Harsh Truths of Building a $20B CompanyI really enjoy Shane Parrish's podcast conversations. Here's the latest episode on YouTube. This Week's Sponsor 🙌Remotive Accelerator • Unlock 30,000+ remote jobsFinding your dream remote job shouldn’t be a full-time job Find Your Remote Job Remotive Jobs 💼Is this job for you? 👉 Senior Fullstack Developer (Next.js+React.js) at Proxify (CET +/- 3 hours) 👉 Senior Frontend Developer (React.js+Next.js) at Proxify (CET +/- 3 hours) 👉 Senior Mobile Cross-Platform Developer (Firebase) at Proxify (CET +/- 3 hours) Free Guides & Tools​Public Job Board​We curate 2,000 remote jobs so you don't have to! ​Find your remote job →​ ​Exclusive Webinar​3 Mistakes to Avoid When Looking For A Remote Startup Job (And What To Do Instead) ​Register for free →​ ​Job Search Tips​Looking for a remote job? Here are our tips to help you work remotely ​Check it out →​ Join the Remotive newsletter Subscribe to get our latest content by email. Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email address Subscribe Powered by ConvertKit View the full article