Problem Solving

5 Effective Ways to Improve Myself to Get Good Jobs

October 30, 2023 by Joi Leave a Comment

by Vital Shpakouski

The job market these days is as competitive as a crowded subway during rush hour. It can be difficult to stand out and get a good job. But don’t worry – you have the opportunity to make yourself a prime candidate. In this article, we’ll talk about five simple and effective ways to do this.

Professional development

One of the first steps is to work on improving your skills. Here’s how you can do it:

Identifying in-demand skills. You need to find out what’s hot in the job market right now. Do some research to find out what skills are in demand in your desired field. This will give you an edge.
Taking relevant courses and earn certifications. You can then take up textbooks or online courses. There are tons of affordable and even free courses (Coursera, Udemy, Khan Academy, etc.) where everyone can find something for themselves. And don’t forget about certifications.
Building a portfolio. Learning is one thing, but showing what you’ve learned is another. Having a portfolio that showcases your work is key. Potential employers love to see what you can do, and a well-organized portfolio speaks volumes.
Networking for hands-on experience. Networking with people in your industry can open doors to internships, freelance work, or volunteering. This real-world experience not only enhances your skills, but also allows you to make valuable connections.

Developing soft skills

Beyond technical knowledge, soft skills are the hidden gems that can make you stand out in the job market. You can hone these skills in the following ways:

Communication skills: Work on your ability to articulate clearly, listen actively, and adapt your communication style to different audiences.
Teamwork and collaboration: Learn to work harmoniously with colleagues, contribute to group work, and resolve conflicts constructively.
Adaptation and problem solving: Nurture your ability to adapt so that you can overcome change with ease. Problem-solving skills will also help you to be creative in solving problems.
Leadership and time management: Develop the ability to motivate and guide others. In addition, effective time management will help you stay organized and productive.

Once you master these skills, you will be invaluable to any employer on Jooble and nay other platform for job searching.

Building a strong online presence

Having a strong online presence is essential for career success today. Start by polishing your online profiles, such as LinkedIn, and make sure they reflect your skills and aspirations in a professional light. Plus, LinkedIn is a goldmine of professional contacts. Utilize other platforms such as Twitter or industry forums as well.

Showcase your expertise on blogs and social media to establish yourself as a thought leader in your field and catch the attention of employers looking for experts. Connect with influencers and professionals in your field to expand your network and stay abreast of industry trends and opportunities.

Resume and interview preparation

Craft your resume individually for each employer. Highlight relevant skills and experience, and ensure it is well organized and error-free. Instead of simply listing job duties, emphasize your accomplishments and results. Numbers and quantifiable achievements catch the attention of recruiters.

Be prepared to answer typical interview questions with confidence. Practice answers that demonstrate your skills and experience. In addition, Improve your interviewing skills by practicing with a friend or recording mock interviews. Pay attention to your body language, tone, and ability to convey your enthusiasm for the role.

Networking and mentoring

Actively network with professionals in your field at industry events, seminars, and online platforms. A wide network can open doors to a variety of opportunities.

Next, find experienced professionals in your field who can provide valuable guidance and advice. A mentor can provide direction, share their knowledge, and help navigate the complexities of the industry.

Also, attend industry events and conferences: This not only expands your knowledge but also gives you the opportunity to meet potential mentors and colleagues

Conclusion

In a competitive job market, self-improvement is the key to getting a coveted position. But remember that the journey of self-improvement is continuous. Take each step, adapt to changes in the labor market, and continue to evolve. As a result, you will be able to find your dream job and embark on a fulfilling career path. So take action, apply these strategies, and watch your career soar to new heights. Good luck!

The First-Time Pet Owners Guide to Choosing a Dog Breed

March 20, 2023 by Joi Leave a Comment

Obviously, deciding to get a dog is a huge step. Before you make any commitments, you really need to ensure that your home and your lifestyle are compatible with dog ownership. If you are certain that you can provide the level of care that a dog requires, you can begin to do some research into the different breeds. Finding the right dog breed for you is key. There are a lot of choices out there, which can feel a little overwhelming at times, especially if you have never had a dog before. This is why we have put together the following guide; let’s dive in.

Initial Research

There are a few things that you will want to explore during your initial research stages. If you have a few breeds in mind, you really need to learn as much about them as possible. Each breed has its own benefits and drawbacks, as well as being better suited to different lifestyles. It might make sense to try and meet those breeds; this might be easier said than done unless you know people who have those breeds or there is a local kennel or dog show that you can visit. Social media can also be an excellent resource by allowing you to get in touch with owners to discover what their experiences are.

It is also worth considering whether or not the breeds that you are interested in are more likely to be predisposed to health risks. Of course, this doesn’t mean that just because you choose a certain breed, it will definitely develop these conditions, but it is something to think about. For example, brachycephalic breeds are thought to be more likely to develop breathing problems. Brachycephalic breeds refers to any dog with a flattened face, like Pugs or Bulldogs. While this feature is often a selling point because it is cute, this is definitely something to keep in mind.
The next thing to think about is whether you want a pedigree or purebred as opposed to a crossbreed. A pedigree dog has a long, often traceable, lineage which proves that the dog is a purebred. This means that the dog is likely to be more predictable in its behavior, its looks and sometimes its health too. On the other hand, crossbreeds have parents from different breeds, and the resulting puppy tends to be more unpredictable. However, they do also tend to be more robust unless, of course, there is a history of similar illnesses in both parental lines.

Finally, the last thing that you will need to consider when undertaking your initial research is whether or not you want to rescue or buy from a breeder. While it is entirely possible to find a puppy from a rescue, it is more likely that you would be adopting a dog. If you want a puppy, you are more likely to have to buy one from a breeder. There are benefits and drawbacks to both options; it really depends on your preference.

Other Characteristics to Take into Account

Once your initial research is out of the way, you can start to think more about the specifics. Firstly, what gender dog do you want? Sometimes, gender can determine important characteristics like the size of the dog and even sometimes its personality traits. For example, males tend to be bigger than females, and female dogs can be more affectionate, although this is not to be relied upon. The size of the dog itself is also a notable consideration. Think about how much room you have and how much time you have to dedicate to walking it, as well as whether or not it would fit in with your family situation; for example, if you have young children, then a big dog can be a big undertaking.

Speaking of exercise, this is something that you will need to really think about. Some dogs require far more walking than others; dogs with more energy also need enrichment activities to ensure that they aren’t bored or unstimulated because this can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing. You will also need to think about the grooming needs that your preferred breed has. Some dogs require regular brushing and cutting, which does constitute an extra expense. Other dogs can be groomed at home. Some breeds are touted as being hypoallergenic and better for people with allergies, but again this is not definitive.

There are also certain breeds associated with certain behaviors. Some dogs are simply bred for their looks, others for their intelligence and others for their working ability. If you want a dog simply for companionship, then you will want to explore different breeds than you would if you wanted a dog that would act as a protector. For example, German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois are often chosen to be working dogs because they do share a few characteristics. However, there is also a difference between a German Shepherd and a Belgian Malinois Retriever, outlined by Native Pet, who also have a plethora of other great resources and dog treats that you can buy.

It is also worth considering the color of the dog too. A crossbreed is obviously going to be harder to predict, but purebreds all tend to have a recognized color chart, and their color is heavily influenced by their parents. Some colors are rarer, and therefore purchasing them from a breeder is likely to cost more money because the puppy will be seen as more unique or unusual. Depending on where you live, you might also want to consider native breeds; there are several areas around the globe where the native breeds are considered vulnerable because of dwindling numbers. Finally, if you have children, or if this is likely to happen in the future, then you should also think about whether or not the breed is child-friendly. Of course, you will still need to make sure that you are prioritizing the safety of both the dog and your child, as well as teaching your child how to appropriately interact with the dog.

The Bottom Line
Finding the right breed is incredibly important to ensuring that you both have a long and happy life together. In addition to taking the time to choose the right breed of dog, you really need to take some time to think about whether or not you are genuinely ready to get a dog at this point in your life. Remember that a dog is a huge commitment, and you should not enter into it lightly.

Benefits of Acupuncture in Treating Stress & Chronic Pain

November 15, 2022 by Joi Leave a Comment

Acupuncture continues to gain popularity as more studies find it effective in treating different illnesses. From chronic pain to stress, acupuncture has shown that it can provide relief and successfully deliver desired results.

It features fine needles inserted in the skin at specific points along the energy lines also known as meridians. In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been successfully used for years.

The best part is that it not only addresses physical health issues but also impacts the mental body. It can improve your anxiety and stress levels to help control them and relieve the constant pressure.

How Acupuncture Works to Treat Anxiety and Stress

You may be wondering how acupuncture relates to treating anxiety and how it actually works. Let’s explore a bit deeper to understand how and why acupuncture for anxiety is effective.

In Chinese medicine, the energy that flows through the body is called Qi (Chi). It moves through the energy lines known as meridians through the whole body. When your body is uneasy due to stress and anxiety, the flow of energy is disrupted.

Acupuncture helps to restore balance and facilitate an easier flow of energy through the meridians. Professional acupuncturists insert fine needles in specific energy points to help bring your energy back to its normal flow.

Modern science explains that the fine needles are inserted away from your nerves to a certain depth stimulating feel-good hormones like endorphins. These hormones help reduce stress-inducing hormones like cortisol to help treat anxiety and stress.

Benefits of Acupuncture in Treating Stress and Anxiety

Studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for anxiety disorders with fewer side effects compared to taking medication. If you are looking for alternative treatment options, acupuncture is worth consideration.

Working with licensed NYC acupuncturists gives you the confidence you need to explore a different approach to relieve anxiety and stress. Acupuncture remains one of the best alternative treatments with incredible benefits. These benefits include;

Improves Mood

Acupuncture helps improve overall mood and emotional regulation to help you process and react to different situations better. Improved moods help reduce anxiety and stress ensuring that you are calmer to deal with things that come up.

Going for your acupuncture appointments will leave you feeling happier which will help reduce feelings of anxiety and help you manage your stress responses.

Enhance Mental Clarity

Brain fog may affect your mental clarity and tamper with your decision-making skills. This may leave you feeling stuck or stagnant. These feelings can lead to stress and feelings of anxiety.

Studies have shown that acupuncture can help improve cognitive function which can in turn help clear out brain fog. This will help enhance your mental clarity, allowing you to make better decisions while relieving stress and anxiety.

Promotes Better Sleep

Sleep deprivation is a major cause of stress and anxiety. It throws off your circadian rhythm and leaves you feeling exhausted. This later affects your work and health leading to a more stressful situation.

Acupuncture is effective in treating insomnia and will help promote better sleep to ensure that you get enough rest. Doing this will help reduce stress and anxiety.

Boosts Your Energy

After your acupuncture sessions, you’ll often find that you are more energetic and excited to get things done. This boost in your energy helps you get things done and relieve stress and anxiety about incomplete tasks.

Relieves Body Pains

Pain can cause stress to the body leaving you feeling worse. However, acupuncture has been shown to be effective for chronic pain to help give you relief and reduce the stress on your body.

Why Choosing Natural Ingredients For Your Hair Will Help You Long Term

November 11, 2022 by Joi Leave a Comment

Society has become more aware of the importance of using more organic and natural products throughout our lives. The beauty industry is a popular place where you can make more informed choices, and there are plenty of options since companies are rebranding and making the switch to offer more natural products.

Your hair is an essential part of the body that needs nourishment, and if you haven’t already, making the switch to natural and organic haircare will help ensure that your hair stays vitalized for a long life. Hair products are usually applied directly to the scalp and then down the length of the hair.

Your hair is organic, so why not treat it as such? It’s important for your hair health and there are numerous benefits that natural ingredients can offer your hair.

Natural and Organic Ingredients

Before you examine all of the benefits, it’s crucial that you understand what ingredients to look for in your hair care. Many shampoos, conditioners and other products will claim to be “natural” or “organic”, but it’s not accurate and more of a marketing ploy.

Look for the following ingredients when searching for natural, organic hair care products:

Organic shea butter – enhances the natural color and shine of your hair.
Honey – honey is a fantastic natural ingredient that adds tons of moisture to restore shine and reduce frizz and dryness, as found in Gisou’s honey shampoo.
Coconut oil and aloe vera – other natural moisturizers that help keep your scalp from drying out and becoming flaky.
Tea tree oil – essential oils have so many benefits, and this oil has antiseptic properties to help keep your skin and hair healthy and free from irritation.

Benefits of Natural Ingredients in Hair Care

Choosing more organic hair products protects your hair from future damage, or even daily damage in places where pollution is high or you’re around a lot of airborne chemicals that can get into the hair. Here are some of the benefits that organic products offer your hair and health.

Mildness For Your Hair

Hair products that have more artificial ingredients tend to be harsher on your hair. They give the impression that they will work faster to improve your hair, but they usually are stripping your hair of natural oils that are needed that keep your hair healthy. These artificial products do damage to the hair follicles and to your scalp. Natural products are meant to be mild for as long as you use them.

Better For Your Skin

Your scalp is an important part of the hair, and artificial products can cause irritation to the skin. Other areas of your body can absorb these harsh chemicals as you bathe or shower, and you may even experience an allergic reaction. Organic and natural shampoos and conditioners prevent skin irritation and allergic reaction, since they are all natural. They are the best option for sensitive skin.

They Benefit the Environment and Provide More Value

Artificial and chemically made ingredients and products have a higher negative impact on our environment. They contaminate the soil and water when you use them, which can cause problems for the ground, wildlife, and more. With natural and organic products you can feel better around using them since they have harmless ingredients that break down easily.

Hair products can be expensive, but the difference in price with using more natural hair care products is a tiny margin. Plus, you’ll get more more value for the money you spent, and probably won’t even have to use as much of the product to see the difference it makes.

Natural Hair Care Products are Good For Your Body

What you put in your hair also affects your body, just like how eating healthier can be good for your hair. Natural ingredients found in hair care usually contain antioxidants. They assist the body in the removal of free radicals. Your hair holds a lot of chemicals, which have negative side effects. Do yourself and your hair a favor to ensure it stays healthy and shiny forever by using more organic products with natural ingredients.

How to Feel Better About Growing Older: Your Story Isn’t Over, It’s Just Getting Good!

September 29, 2022 by Joi Leave a Comment

Live. Love. Laugh… Then Laugh a Little More!

First of all, allow me to say that if you’re feeling unhappy, sad, or in any way negative about growing older or looking older, there’s nothing wrong with that! We feel how we feel and we are entitled to these feelings. So when I try to make you feel happier, I am not (in any way) suggesting you are wrong to feel sad or unhappy. I just want you to be happy – I like your smile.

The loss of youth, a youthful appearance, and of being able to do all we once did can be unsettling. In fact, isn’t it the last two things that get to us the most? I don’t know about you, but the number doesn’t bother me… even when I hit the fifties, I didn’t mind the number. I mean a number is just that… a number. I do mind not being able to walk as far or jog like I used to. I mind not being able to eat certain foods or eat late into the evening like I once did.

And boy oh boy, did I mind the peculiar things that began to happen on my arms (there used to be more tone and definition, if memory serves!), face, and (Lord have mercy) neck.

Seriously… why does the neck turn on a person so quickly?! The one body part it’s almost impossible to cover, camouflage, or paint?!?

We all have moments, don’t we? I almost never stress over appearance, I do my nails, spritz on my perfume, fluff my curls, apply makeup, ask my neck, “Why, though?” and get on with life. I have always (even as a teenager) cared 100 percent more about what was inside a person more than what was outside, including myself.

Whether it’s me or someone else, I am infinitely attracted to a great sense of humor, a love of life, a non-judgmental attitude, and a personality that draws you in its direction. We live in a world that focuses entirely too much on appearance (thanks a lot social media, selfies, and fad diets). How much better would it be if we praised personalities, compassion, being well-read, etc.

NOTHING in the world wrong with wanting to be healthy, look your best, and feel your best – but what’s going on INSIDE is so much more important and I’m willing to die on that hill.

If you’re reading this, odds are you’re feeling a little (or a lot) down about aging. Whether it was something you saw in the mirror (it was the neck, wasn’t it?) or something you weren’t able to do as well as you once were, you may simply have a case of the “sads.”

I want very much to see if I can help you get past the sads and dive head-first into the glads like a puppy in a pile of leaves.

Below are a few tips and tricks of the trade I’ve learned in the fabulous fifties (they really are fabulous in many ways):

Keep a sense of humor – it will serve you well! I’ve listed this first for a reason – I think it may just be the most important one. Having a sense of humor and being able to see the humor in most situations is vital throughout life, but never more so than in the golden years (50-100+). When you’re laughing, you aren’t ignoring things that bother or bug you (more about those in a minute), you’re simply letting them know you will NOT be brought down by them. You will NOT allow them to trample on your joy or let the air out of your happiness. Laughing doesn’t just feel good, it is healthy for your body and mind. I highly, highly, highly recommend watching The Golden Girls and (if colorful language doesn’t offend you) the Grumpy Old Men movies. They’re hilarious and will absolutely remind you to laugh. The Golden Girls could actually be prescribed therapy for us women who are growing older. They wear it so well and have so much fun with life, it reminds us that we can too!
Eat right, sleep right, and keep your doctor’s appointments. I want to see you happy, but I also want to see you healthy. Some people get a certain age and they do all they can to avoid doctors. Horrible idea! Getting a great checkup could make a world of difference in how you feel. So very often, someone feels “off” or “not quite themselves” and bloodwork shows that all they need is a little more Vitamin D or Iron. Both of these make a whole world of difference in how you feel. I’ve also found that Magnesium is something else that helps a great deal. Be sure to ask your doctor about each of these. Also, be sure you’re eating right and getting enough sleep. Both are vital to looking and feeling your best.
Address those things that bug you! If you don’t like something about yourself (weight, hair, skin… whatever), research ways to improve it and get to work. Once you start working on something, you feel instantly better – long before you see even a hint of improvement, you feel a world better.
Don’t focus on what LEFT… focus on what REMAINS. If you’ve suffered a loss in relationships, family member, health, a pet, home, business, or you feel like you’ve lost a piece of yourself, try very hard not to focus too much energy on what you have lost (or even perceive that you’ve lost). Focus, instead, on what or who remains. It’s a trick many use when dealing with an empty nest. They go from focusing on the child or children who had the audacity to leave the nest (how dare they grow up?!) and they focus on who and/or what remains. When you feel every bit of your age, try to switch your focus to the fact that you’re still bright, still funny, and (on some days) even downright sassy. Don’t spend too much time looking at those gray hairs… look, instead, at how your eyes still sparkle. It sounds simple, but it is absolutely therapeutic. Focus on what remains. Focus on what remains. Focus on what remains.
Do not look to the future with fear or sadness, look instead at the life you’ve lived with awe and gladness! Think of the love, the laughs, the things you’ve seen, and the things you’ve done. Your life is a wonderful story and it is in NO WAY over yet! Heck, the best chapters may still lie ahead.

I don’t want to keep you much longer, I want you to get out there and enjoy your wonderful life, but I’ll just leave you with this. The next time you’re thinking anything like…

“I can’t do this, I’m too old…”
“I will never be okay with how I look..”
“What is with these creaking knees?”

… I want you to think back on your life. I want you to name times when you were your own hero. Did you overcome cancer, a gallbladder operation, an especially bad car wreck, or a scary trip to the emergency room? Have you had to say goodbye (for now!) to your mom, dad, husband, wife, or other loved one at a funeral home? Did you have a dream home you had to drive away from… or close a business you worked half your life for? Think of the times you’ve had to step up, be tougher than you ever thought possible, and come walking out of the rubble… maybe even limping at first. Now tell yourself, “I’ve lived through the worst. This will be a cakewalk.”

Be your own hero. Hey, you’ve done it before… you’re good at this!

Make each moment count double and stay in the fight! ~ Joi (“Joy”)

Your Story Isn’t Over… It’s Just Getting Good!