The Five C's of Decision Making

In his book "How to be a better Decision Maker" Alan Barker mentions that one of the managerial skills is to make good decisions. The 5 C's of decision making is a basic decision-making process among many managers:

Factors that Affect Your Decision Making

1. Considering: Identifying, exploring, and eliminating the alternatives.
2. Consulting: Getting those people who are affected to be involved. Consulting is part of considering.
3. Committing: Taking responsibility for the decision.
4. Communicating: Explaining your decision and implementing the decision by committing others to it.
5. Checking: Following through to make sure the decision actually works

Immune System and Multivitamins

Immune system

According to various clinical studies nutrients work best in combination with each other rather than singly to allow your immune system to operate at an optimum level. 

Other clinical studies also showed that there was an increase in the number of immunity cells in their body when they consumed supplements with combined nutrients. 

In the USA one particular study revealed that elderly people who consumed multivitamins continuously for six to twelve months showed substantial improvements in cellular immunity. 

Taking a supplement on a regular basis will also boost our nutrient intake from sub-optimal to optimal levels.

Image source:https://reverehealth.com/live-better/brief-overview-immune-system/

Reward Yourself for Studying

Reward Yourself

During the weekdays you wake up early and go to school. You come back from school to do revision and in the evening you do your homework and prepare yourself for the next school day. At the weekend, according to Reevany Bustami and Ellisha Nasruddin, you should "renew yourself with rewards that uplift your spirits and sharpen your mind." 

What do you do so that you are recharged, uplifted, and relaxed? To renew your spirits you can do something that interests you such as: Go to the beach to look at the rising sun or the setting sun, Read an interesting and motivating book. Enjoy a game of Scrabble with your friends. Go for an uplifting movie. Visit your friends or relatives. Go to the zoo. Play computer games. Visit the orphanage or the old folk's home. 

Image source:https://theproductiveengineer.net/a-guide-to-how-to-stop-procrastinating-in-college/

Home Remedies for Vaginal Dryness

Home Remedies for Vaginal Dryness

As you know olive oil is good for the heart. But do you know it may be good for the vagina? According to a couple using it says that it is the best sexual lubricant and it's natural and not greasy. However, oil-based lubricants and latex condoms do not mix. 

Vaginal Dryness

Another couple suggests a product made from an extract of kiwifruit vine. They say it is the best personal lubricant of all. It lubricates and relieves pain associated with vaginal dryness during relations. 

Image source: https://www.womanlog.com/sex/vaginal-dryness

Protect Your Child Alone at Home

Protect Your Child Alone at Home

Take the following precautionary measures for the safety of your child when he is alone at home:

7 Smart Ways to Protect Your Children
 

1. Inform your child not to tell anyone or someone on the phone that he is alone at home.
2. Teach your child to tell the person at the door or on the phone like, "My father is having a nap."
3. Teach your child the right number to call in case of emergency. Tell your child that he should call your handphone or your office whenever necessary. Keep a list of the emergency telephone numbers by the side of the telephone.
4. Make sure that your child is able to lock and unlock all windows and doors.

Image source:https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Safe-When-Home-Alone-(Kids)

Help Your Children Manage Money

Help Your Children Manage Money

Image source:https://www.irishnews.com/lifestyle/2018/06/12/news/how-to-teach-your-kids-to-manage-their-money-1351667/

According to financial planners, children should get an early start to know financial management. They recommend the following:

1. Fix a day every month to give allowance to your children. This is to allow them to plan their spending for the month.
2. Keep a record of their expenditure. Children should be taught to record their monthly expenses.
3. When the children are old enough, open bank accounts of their own. This is to allow them to learn and understand banking procedures.
4. Permit your children to spend the money independently. However, parents should explain to them what kind of expenses is considered extravagant and what kind of expenses is considered investment
5. As soon as appropriate, introduce tools for financial management to them. Inculcate in their minds the importance of these tools.

What are the Abilities the Bosses are Looking for When They Promote Someone?

What are the Abilities the Bosses are Looking for When They Promote Someone?

Here are a few important skills you must polish up if you want to be promoted. These are the factors that bosses are considering:

10 Things You Should Not Say To Your Boss
 

1. The ability to communicate well in writing, speaking, listening, and reading.
2. The ability to make decisions.
3. A team player.
4. Being involved in volunteer activities. Your involvement projects a good image for you and the company.

Image source:https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashiraprossack1/2018/06/29/how-managers-choose-the-employees-they-promote/?sh=13495c95388a

Masturbation and your Children

Masturbation and your Children

Parents should not be disturbed by their children masturbating. They are going through a very natural stage of development. A child's masturbation is often used as a short-cut to pleasure himself and no one else. However, too much masturbation will keep your child away from his friends and is not healthy. Parents can reduce their children's masturbation by helping them to have alternative interests to release their extra energy. Activities like regular exercise, sports, outings, and picnics are definitely beneficial for them. Slowly they will reduce their excessive masturbation.

Image source:https://www.todaysparent.com/family/parenting/tips-for-talking-to-your-kid-about-masturbation/

Effective Study Methods

Effective Study methods

There was a student, now he is a doctor, who scored only A's right from primary education up to pre-university level. He offers the following effective study techniques: 

The Ten Secrets of Passing your Examination with Flying Colours

 1. Do the exercises first: Instead of doing the study first you do the questions and come back to master the relevant section. Exercises will not ask irrelevant questions. 

2. Ask questions: Ask the lecturer a few pertinent questions. He will give you the gist of the subject. It's better than to read a few books. 

3. Memory: According to him you can divide your memory into five parts. It is the maximum that you can remember. Let's say you have 20 points, just group them into five parts.

Image source: https://www.emergingedtech.com/2020/02/6-research-backed-study-techniques/

Networking

Networking

Networking is a win/win situation whereby those involved sharing information and supporting each other's business activities for mutual benefit. Here are some networking tips: 

Networking - 5 Effective Tips

 1. Meet as many people as you can. 

2. When you meet someone, tell the other person what you do. 

3. Act like a host, not a guest. You introduce yourself and you don't wait to be introduced. 

4. While you are networking, don't do business. 

5. You give and you receive. 

6. Follow up to foster a relationship. 

7. Keep in touch regularly. 

8. Update your contacts and discard those unproductive ones.

Image source: https://www.premiumbeat.com/blog/5-tips-on-effective-networking/

Protect your Children

How to Protect Your Kids from Predators

In Taiwan the children are informed of the following "4 No's": 

7 Smart Ways to Protect Your Children

 Do not accept gifts from strangers. 

Do not allow others to touch your body. 

Do not be cheated easily. 

Do not do anything alone.

Image source: https://funwithkids.com/body-safety-and-how-to-protect-your-child-from-predators/

You and Your Will

A will is a person's last instructions for his property to be distributed according to his wishes plus other instructions to be carried out. The person who makes the will is a testator.

Why do you need a will?

1. Look after your assets and your family: A will will allow you to take care of your family and your assets in the future the way you want them to be.
2. It's lawful to make a will: You are exercising your right to write a will. By doing so you are able to appoint an executor of your choice to handle your affairs after death. You can also engage a guardian of your choice for your children who are still below the full legal age.
3. Fewer hassles: With a will, you can be sure that your assets will be distributed smoothly and quickly.
4. Flexibility and control: While you are alive you are in control of your assets. You can dispose of part of it or sell all of them or draw up a new will to replace the previous one. The will is only effective upon your death.

The Right Way to Resign

How to Resign from a Job

According to industry experts, you should leave the company without burning your bridges: 

 1. Make known your next move: Talk to your boss honestly about your future whereabouts. If you don't he will find out sooner or later. 

2. Serve enough notice: Give sufficient notice as spelt out in your contract. Leave the company in a nice way. 

3. Do your job as usual: Continue to work your normal way until the last day. You don't want to have a last bad impression. Do you? 

4. Take the initiative to get replacements for the company: You know better than anyone else about your job scope. Your boss will appreciate it.

 5. Keep your network up-to-date: Inform your current boss and colleagues of your new posting. You never know you may want to return to your former company. 

6. Do the exit interview tactfully: Do not complain about your boss or anyone in the office. Give constructive criticism by providing positive and negative feedback about the company.

Image source: https://careersidekick.com/how-to-resign/

How to Keep Healthy While Enjoying Yourself

How to Keep Healthy While Enjoying Yourself

When it is time to celebrate, it is time for fun and a feast. But according to the research, during festive seasons, there are many more incidents of heart attack and serious digestive problems. How to keep yourself healthy while enjoying the joyous festival? 

 1. First and foremost, exercise your self-control so that you will not be tempted to overindulge in high-calorie food. 

2. The best way to avoid overeating is not to go to a party with an empty stomach. 

3. Avoid fried items. Opt for boiled, baked, and steamed food. 

4. Eat meat and dessert moderately 

5. Eat more vegetables and fruit. 

6. If you must drive, do not drink alcohol. Fruit juice and green tea are the best choices. 

7. If you overeat high-calorie meals, you have to exercise harder to get rid of the sin

image source: https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/loop-blog/8-ways-master-holiday-eating-diabetes/

Eleven Things a University Student Must Do

Eleven Things a University Student Must Do

A prominent Chinese community leader mentions in one of the Chinese newspapers the following eleven things that a university student must do:

1. Cultivate a lifelong healthy living habit: One of the things he highlights is the habit of doing exercise regularly.
2. Establish your ambition early: What is your ambition? A lawyer? An Accountant? A doctor? When you know where you are heading you can focus on your studies and spend more time on them.
3. Study diligently.
4. When you study do not learn by rote, you must understand the subject thoroughly.
5. Learn to think independently. Do not accept fully what you have heard or read. Do the research and find out the truth.
6. Learn to be creative: Creativity is strongly linked to your ability to understand thoroughly, study diligently and think independently.
7. Study Chinese: Raise your ability to listen and speak.
8. Learn English: Learn to read, listen, write and speak.
9. "Learn" the world: He recommends students to read 'International Herald Tribune, 'The Economist' and 'Business Week'.
10. Learn to give speeches and debate.
11. According to him, this is the most important point: To be an honest and committed person. You must be honest not only to people you know but you must be honest at all times. Commitment means when you have decided to do something make sure that you are able to accomplish it at all costs.

Image source: https://www.thelawyerportal.com/blog/first-year-law-student/

Active Ageing -- Gracious Living

Active Ageing -- Gracious Living

Nowadays we often hear elderly parents complain about their loneliness. They complain that their married children, who live apart from them, neglect them and that they are ungrateful and unfilial. Loneliness breeds resentment. It is not helpful for a child-parent relationship nor good for health. They should change their mindset and live an active life. They should socialise with friends and relatives, take up hobbies or participate in various activities. Connecting with others will enrich and brighten their lives. It is good for health as well as good for the child-parent relationship.

Recently I visited a gracious old lady farmer. Although she is more than sixty years old, she is very active. Every day she has a full schedule. Besides tending her fruit farm, she still finds time to take up an English language course and takes part in other outdoor activities. She looks happy, healthy, and confident. On top of that, the relationship with her married children is harmonious.
She is indeed a living example for other elders.

Fitness and Your Children

Fitness and Your Children

There are four components of fitness. They are endurance, strength, flexibility, and body composition.

Endurance:-
There are two kinds of endurance:-
Cardiovascular Endurance: It means your heart and lung are able to sustain an activity such as jogging for an extended period. Other aerobic exercises like swimming and walking also improve cardiovascular endurance.
Muscular Endurance: You build strength by weight lifting, going up the stairs, and cycling.

Strength:-
It means your ability to exert a force. There is a difference between muscular endurance and muscular strength. You use your muscular strength to lift a heavy thing and you use your muscular endurance to carry a heavy object from one place to another.

Flexibility:-
Stretching improves flexibility. It also helps to reduce stress and tension. Many experts believe that stretching reduces the risk of developing an injury while taking part in sports.

Body Composition:-
To determine how fit your child is, body composition is more important than body weight. It means the body fat should not exceed a certain percentage:

Boys
Age Good Bad
7 15-20% >20%
10 15-21% >21%
13 17-23% >23%
16 19-25% >25%

Girls
Age Good Bad
7 16-22% >22%
10 17-24% >24%
13 18-25% >25%
16 18-25% >25%

Help your child to develop total fitness.

Your Investment-linked Insurance Policy

Investment-Linked Insurance Policy

Do you know part of your premium payment is invested in one of the following instruments?

1. Shares in the stock exchange: To maximize returns over the medium to long term. The risk and the return are high.
2. Fixed interest securities, corporate bonds, and fixed deposits: For medium to long term accumulation of capital. The risk and the return are low to moderate.
3. A mixture of the above two: It is for medium to long term accumulation of capital. The risk and the return are moderate to high.

Image source: https://www.flymalaysia.org/investment-linked-insurance-policy/

Getting Ahead at Work

Getting Ahead at Work

Note the following points for your career advancement:

Getting Your Job Done in the Workplace - 3 Top Tips

1. Get along well with people and able to deal with them in a tactful manner.
2. Know the right people from whom you can get support to get your work done.
3. Know your company well so that your goals meet its needs.
4. Identify additional skills required for you to get ahead and know where to get them.
5. Utilize your strength and also the right people you know to reach your goals.
6. Find out the working style of your superiors and act accordingly.
7. Go beyond your boss's expectations.

Image source: https://www.amazon.com/21st-Century-Lifeskills-Handbook-Getting/dp/1616516925

Nutrients for your Eyes: Vitamins, Mineral and Herbs

Eye Health

While you have taken proactive action to look after your eyesight, here are some supplements that you can take to fortify your vision:

Herbs For Your Eyes

Vitamins

Vitamin C: It helps to reduce the risk of cataracts and AMD (age-related macular degeneration). It also helps to alleviate glaucoma by reducing the pressure in the eyes.

Vitamin E: It inhibits excessive glucose cross-linking that affects eyesight.

Beta-carotene: It is converted by the body into vitamin A, as and when required. A mild lack of vitamin A may cause rapid tiring of the eyes. You may be also sensitive to bright lights.

Mineral

Zinc: It is essential for maintaining of good eyesight.

Herbs

Eyebright: Eyebright herbs are used to reduce redness and swelling.

Bilberry: It is used to improve dark adaptation in people with poor night vision.

Marigold: It contains naturally high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin which prevent macular degeneration.

Image source: https://www.allaboutvision.com/nutrition/nutrition_summary.htm

How do Parents Assist their Children in the Learning Process?

How do Parents Assist their Children in the Learning Process?

There are three important things to remember:

1. Maintain the momentum of your child's curiosity in learning. Encourage him to ask. To learn you must ask. When you ask there is an answer.
2. Make sure that your child is in a peaceful and quiet environment conducive to learning and he is always happy to accept new knowledge and to explore new things.
3. Elevate his interest in learning. Assist your child to overcome difficulties during the learning process. Share with him the joy of completing a stage in learning and praise your child about his results in learning.

Image source: https://thriveglobal.com/stories/9-reasons-why-parents-choose-online-learning-programs-for-their-kids/

RELATIONSHIPS - The 5 C's of Customer Care

Customer Service

According to Janelle Barlow of Time Manager International, USA you can instil empathy among service staff by practicing the "5 C's of Intimacy Theory".

1. Communication: It involves proactive questioning and the ability to repeat information accurately.
2. Caring: It means valuing the customer for who he is and not who you would like the person to be.
3. Commitment: It means you take the responsibility to be reliable and committed to customers.
4. Comfort: Go all the way to help customers and also provide supportive comments.
5. Conflict Resolution: Create trust in the relationships so that conflicts can be resolved easily.

How does Alcohol Affect Driving?

How does Alcohol affect a driver?

We are often told that alcohol and driving do not mix. But how bad is the effect of alcohol on driving? According to experts, a drunk driver is affected by the following ways: 

 

Psychomotor Skills:: Coordination and balance abilities are impaired. 

Vision: The brain's control of the eyes is affected adversely by alcohol. A drunk driver tends to look longer at the centre of his driving scene and ignore the important events at the side. 

Perception: A drunk driver is unable to interpret complex sensory information on the road. 

Tracking: Steering a vehicle becomes a difficult task for a drunk driver.

 Information Processing: The processing of information becomes slower as the brain is affected by alcohol. 

Attention: A drunk driver is unable to divide attention to two or more sources of visual information simultaneously. 

 Think of your family and don't drink and drive. If you do they will miss you forever.

Image source: https://www.hardywolf.com/news/maine-drunk-driving-accidents/

Fight Rising Fuel Prices the Wise Way

Fight Rising Fuel Prices the Wise Way

Fast-rising fuel prices have hurt motorists badly. They have to change their routines and habits. To save dollars and cents, here are a few tips for them: 

 1. Avoid making unnecessary car trips. 

2. Shift to lower-grade petrol. 

3. If you can't give up driving altogether, alternate driving with taking public transport. 

4. If it is a short distance, take a walk instead of driving. It is also good for your health. 

5. Schedule several car trips to one round at the same time. 

6. Plan your route to shorten the distance. 

7. When you are waiting for someone, turn off the engine.

Image source: https://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/energy/petrol-crosses-rs-87-per-litre-in-delhi-for-first-time-taxes-account-for-61-percent-of-price/story/430740.htmle.

The Truths About Your Job (For Those who Have Just Joined the Workforce)

New Job

Congratulations! You have just landed on the job. When you start working tune your mindset to the following facts: 

 You will not find your job interesting and keep changing all the time. You will do the same thing day in and day out. To find happiness in your job you will have to make it meaningful. You will not find it an easy job. Your job will be full of deadlines and pressure. However, it will help you to grow. Do not think that when you have done your work you are OK. Bear in mind that you have to work as a team. What you do will affect the work of others. Do not think that the job is not suitable for you just because you cannot apply what you have learnt. When you are new to a company you have to adjust yourself and learn. Be patient.

Image source: https://www.pertemps.co.uk/candidates/career-advice/life-at-work/work-life-top-tips-for-settling-into-your-new-job/

Fats: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Fats: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

The good fat: Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids lower our risk of heart diseases. You can get polyunsaturated fatty acids from vegetable oil, fatty fish, fish oils, and some nuts. While olive oil, canola oil, and nuts like cashews and peanuts contain a high quantity of monounsaturated fatty acids. 

 The bad fat: Saturated fat raises the blood levels of bad cholesterol (LDL). However, it also raises the blood levels of good cholesterol (HDL) at the same time. It is mostly found in coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils, animal fats, butter, cheese, and other dairy products. 

A Balanced Diet - The 6 vital substances

 The ugly fat: Trans fatty acids or trans fat raises LDL and lowers HDL at the same time. It increases the risk of a heart attack. It quickens the rate of aging and increases the risk of birth defects in newborn babies. It is also linked to certain forms of cancer and diabetes. 

How do you know a product contains trans fat? Look at the label. If it includes 'shortening', 'partially hydrogenated vegetable oil' or 'hydrogenated vegetable oil', the food contains trans fat. Major sources of trans fat are: 1% Breakfast cereal and sweets 3% Salad and topping, potato chips, corn chips, and popcorn 4% Household shortenings 8% Fried potatoes 17% Margarine 21% Animal products 40% Cakes, cookies, crackers, pies, and pizzas Food labeled as 'free of trans fat' should not contain more than 0.1g per 100g (solids) or not more than 0.1ml per 100ml (liquids).

Image source: https://www.winstonmedical.org/fats-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/

How do Parents help to make their Children love Books?

How do Parents help to make their Children love Books?

Here are a few simple and effective tips:

1. Choose books that are suitable for reading at their level.
2. Provide an environment at home conducive for them to read.
3. Set a timetable for reading and stick to it.
4. After reading a book, allow your children to share their ideas with others.
5. With parents' supervision, encourage your children to choose their own reading materials.

Image source:https://www.publicschoolreview.com/blog/5-ways-parents-can-inspire-children-to-love-reading

Father's Special Ways of Helping his Children to Develop

Father's Special Ways of Helping his Children to Develop

How does the father help his children to develop?

1. By having fun and playing with his children. Research points out that daddy-style play helps children to gain social and emotional experiences that prepare them for school.
2. By asking his children to work on the farm or office. It helps to create curiosity and problem-solving skills needed for science and mathematics.
3. Many experts agree that daddy-style reading makes an academic difference to their children.

Image source: https://talkingparents.com/blog/june-2019/fathers-bond

Do You Have a "Bag" for Emergency

Do You Have a "Bag" for Emergency

What do you do when your house is on fire? You grab"The Bag" and run! The New York Office of Emergency Management (OEM) calls it the "Go Bag". The Singapore government refers to it as the "Ready Bag". What do you put into the bag?

1. Clothing: Shoes, raincoats, and a blanket.
2. Documents: Copies of your IC, passport, birth certificate, driving licence, etc.
3. Food and water: Bottled water and food such as energy bars.
4. First aid kit.
5. Credit and ATM cards and cash in small denominations.
6. Medication enough for one week's supply.
7. Extra set of car keys and house keys.
8. Radio and flashlight and extra batteries.
9. Child care supplies.
10. Notebook and pen.

Image source: https://metro.co.uk/2019/09/10/emergency-grab-bag-promoted-police-10715815/

Carefree Retirement

Carefree Retirement

To have a carefree retirement you need to be mentally and physically healthy. By the same token, you need to be "healthy" financially. You need to consider the following in order to have a carefree and happy retirement:

1. Your lifestyle during your retirement.
2. Commitments such as children's education and their cost of living.
3. An adequate amount to cover inflation.
4. A contingency fund to cover ill health and accident.

Image source: https://kscripts.com/general/how-to-budget-your-way-to-a-carefree-retirement.html

The Skills of an Effective Executive

The Effective Executive

In his classic article "Skills of an Effective Administrator", Robert L. Katz points out that to be a successful executive you need to master the following three skills:

The 10 Qualities of a Successful Executive
 

1. Technical skill: You must be competent in your area of expertise such as accounting, marketing, advertising, and many others.
2. Human skill: You must be able to get along well with your superiors, peers, and your subordinates in order to get things done.
3. Conceptual skill: You must be able to see the business unit as a whole and that all the departments are interrelated. Changes in one department will affect all other departments in that company.

Healthy Vision

Healthy Habits for Healthy Eyes

Sight is our most valued sense. Glaucoma and cataract are some of the serious eye problems which affect our daily life. Below are a few steps you can take to ensure healthy vision:

Herbs For Your Eyes
 

1. Do not read while lying down.
2. Do not read under dim lights or glare.
3. If you read, watch TV or use the computer for long stretches of time, take a break and do eye exercise: look at a green object far away; look left and right, up and down without moving your head.
4. If you spend long hours outdoors, wear sunglasses to avoid UV radiation and glare.
5. Eat red fruit, such as tomato and carrot, which are good for vision.
6. Eat green vegetables like spinach and kale.
7. Stop smoking. Smoking impairs the body's circulation, decreasing the flow of the retinal blood vessels.

Image source:https://www.titaneyeplus.com/blog/7-simple-tips-to-maintain-your-eye-health-and-vision/

How do you Motivate your Children?

Psychologists suggest the following principles:

F.A.M.I.L.Y. Way to Bring Up Your Children

1. Accept your child truthfully and without conditions. It does not mean that you are accepting his negative behaviour. You accept your child because he is your child. When your child realizes that you have accepted him totally he will show you his true self.
2. Focus on the positive aspects of your child. This is to help him to build up his confidence.
3. Concern more about the child's progress along the way and not the results. This will encourage him to try harder as he moves along.
4. Allow your child to take initiative and be responsible for his action. This is to allow him to learn from experience and grow independently.
5. Have a positive expectation of your child. Your expectation should not go far beyond his capabilities. He will work harder with your support.
6. Motivation must be based on facts. Highlight to him the areas that he has done well. Teach your child to be self-motivated by appreciating himself for a job well done.

Four Important Chinese Words

Good

In one of the schools, there are four big Chinese words written on the building. The words are: Courtesy (礼Li) Righteousness (义Yi) Honesty (廉Lian) Shame

 (耻Chi) These four words offer guidance for your social conducts: 

 Courtesy: Respect others; be polite in social interaction. 

Righteousness: It is especially true among friends. Stand by your friends when they have problems. Do not desert them. 

Honesty: Honesty is the best policy. Be truthful. Do not corrupt others and do not allow yourself to be corrupted. 

Shame: Do not do things that bring shame to yourself or your family. Cheating is an example. Commit a crime is another.

Image source: https://iwillteachyoualanguage.com/learn/chinese/chinese-tips/how-to-write-in-chinese

A Happy Family

A Happy Family

A happy family is essentially a happy team living and doing things together. Here are some of the contributing factors of a family:

• Communication

Always communicate openly and frankly among members to discuss minor and major issues and solve problems. Truthfulness and honesty are necessary for effective communication.

• Commitment and Appreciation

Family comes first. Family gatherings should be given priority. Learn to appreciate the achievements of family members, big or small. Understand and tolerate the uniqueness of each and every family member.

• Quality Time

Spend time having meals together. Enjoy outdoor activities together and pray together.

Image source: https://time.com/21296/how-to-have-a-happy-family-7-tips-backed-by-research/

Where do you Park your Savings?

Invest

Do you save money regularly? Where is the best place to grow your savings? You can consider the following options:

1. Savings Accounts: The interest rate is so low that it can't even meet the onslaught of inflation.
2. Fixed Deposits: Interest rate is higher than savings account. May be it is just enough to cover the inflation rate.
3. Bond Funds: When interest rate goes down the value of bonds go up and vice versa.
4. Investment-linked insurance policy: It offers a better return and you are 'forced" to save on a regular basis which is your main aim.
5. Unit Trusts: Like investment-linked insurance policy it offers a better return. However it is affected by the ups and downs of the stock exchange. It is a very suitable vehicle for regular savers.
6. Share Market: The return is good. The risk is also high.
7. Real Estate: It is very good for long-term investment but the initial investment sum is substantial.

Image source:https://jackpeter9910.medium.com/where-to-park-your-money-in-2019-4e72ac921275

How do You Measure Up to your Job?

Do You Measure Up?

Use the following 12 criteria to check how valuable you are to your company:

How to be a Successful Executive
 

1. Effectiveness in getting a job done.
2. Commitment to do the job well.
3. Desire and ability to improve in skill.
4. Ability to work in a team.
5. Effectiveness in time management.
6. Punctuality.
7. Eagerness to assist colleagues.
8. Positivity in attitude towards the company.
9. Supportiveness towards an immediate superior.
10. Loyalty towards the company.
11. Willingness to sacrifice for company.
12. Ability to make additional contributions of paramount importance for the company.

The Benefits of Exercise

Benefits of Exercise

Exercise has tremendous benefits. In the book " The Complete Manual of Fitness and Well-being" published by Reader's Digest, 13 benefits are listed:

15 Daily Healthy Habits
 

1. Reduces stress and tension, and aids relaxation.
2. Increase strength and stamina.
3. Improves sleep.
4. Aids weight loss and control.
5. Improves respiratory and cardiovascular systems and reduces the risk of heart and arterial disease.
6. Helps to relieve depression.
7. Tones your muscles, which improves your appearance.
8. Improves your concentration.
9. Improves your sex life.
10. Helps to relieve pain, such as backache and menstrual pain.
11. Increases body flexibility and helps to delay signs of aging,
12. Improves general health.
13. Helps you to give up smoking or helps prevent you from starting again.

Image source: https://cheatdaydesign.com/underrated-benefits-of-exercise/

Effective Communication with Children

Effective Communication with Children

To promote effective communication with children educationists point out the following principles:

Develop Effective Communication Skills

1. Listen more; talk less.
2. Think from the children's point of view.
3. Don't criticize, don't blame.
4. Provide motivation and support.
5. Use humour appropriately.
6. Use words that they can understand at their level.
7. As they are unable to express themselves fully, observe their body language to get a better understanding of the children.
8. Create a win-win situation. The purpose of the communication is to get the message across to each other.

Image source: http://parentpumpradio.com/improving-communication-with-our-children-to-really-get-our-message-across/

The Fine Art of Conversation

The Fine Art of Conversation

In his book "The Art of Conversation" by Raymond de Saint-Laurent, he points out that there are two principles of elementary psychology that govern effective conversation:

1. Every man is convinced of his own importance and desires and hopes that they will be recognized.
2. Every man is interested chiefly in himself.

When you are guided by the principles and the following rules people will be delighted to talk to you:

1. Talk little.
2. Be a good listener.
3. Encourage your partner to talk about his pet subject.
4. Pay discreet compliments.
5. Be hospitable in spirit.
6. Use few jokes.
7. Respect the absence.
8. Be silent about yourself.

Parents' Participation in Children's Education

Parents' Participation in Children's Education

Here are some simple steps to take so that you can make all the difference in your child's education:

1. Read together with your child.
2. Check his homework every night.
3. Discuss your child's progress with teachers.
4. Limit TV viewing time.
5. Always ask your child about his progress in school.
6. Set a good example by reading newspapers and books while your child is doing his homework.

Image source: https://www.mpfoundation.org/parental-engagement-helps-children-succeed/

Financial Planning

Financial Planning

In the book "The Moneysense Guide to Planning your Family's Financial Future" produced by the Insurance and Financial Practitioners Association of Singapore and Life Insurance Association, six areas of financial planning are highlighted:

Personal Financial Planning
 

1. Cash Flow Management: Allocate your income to meet expenses, savings, and other commitments.
2. Risk Management: To have sufficient insurance to cover accidental death, disablement, and illness.
3. Investment Planning: Manage your portfolio wisely to allow your wealth to grow.
4. Retirement Planning: Building sufficient wealth during working years so that you can retire independently.
5. Tax Planning: Take advantage of tax benefits and incentives to reduce your tax liabilities.
6. Estate Planning: To allow minimum tax and hassle-free transfer of your estate to your beneficiaries.

Image source:https://investmentu.com/personal-financial-planning-guide/

Personal Development

Personal Development

How do you keep yourself up-to-date in your current job? Here are a few suggestions:

Personal Development - The 7 Areas of Your Life to Take Control
 

1. Take evening, home-study or other courses.
2. Join your trade or professional association.
3. Read publications in your field and business books on management.
4. Look for ways to improve your performance.

Image source: https://www.entrepreneuryork.com/featured/creating-your-personal-development-plan/

The Signs and Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer Signs

Recently two of my friends died. They were all died of cancer. Their signs and symptoms match with those mentioned in the book "The Reader's Digest Family Guide to Alternative Medicine". However, these symptoms may also indicate non-cancerous conditions. Identify the cause and have it treated quickly:

Is Your Body Acidic
 

1. Persistent coughing; coughing up blood.
2. Skin sore (ulcers) that do not heal.
3. Blood in the urine or faeces.
4. Persisting changes in bowel habits.
5. A lump or puckered area in a breast.
6. Blood-stained vaginal discharge.
7. Vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.
8. Lump in the neck.
9. Unexplained weight loss.
10. Indigestion with no known cause.
11. Persistent tiredness for no reason.

What were their symptoms? One of them had persistent coughing and the other one had a lump in the neck.

Image signs;https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/teach-children-about-cancer/50581/

The Psychological Needs of Children

 The Psychological Needs of Children

To understand and to stimulate the growth of children you need to understand the psychological needs of children:

1. The need to be noticed: If you don't pay attention to your child he will behave negatively to attract your attention.
2. The need to be accepted: Accept your child totally and without conditions.
3. The need to be respected: Self-respect and respect by others boost the confidence of the child.
4. The need to belong: The need to be among one of the group, Non-acceptance will affect his healthy development.
5. The need to be dependent: As a child, he needs the care and love of his parents for normal growth.
6. The need to achieve: The need to overcome obstacles and complete difficult tasks.
7. The need to have friends: The need to be around others

True Friends

True Friends

You hope to have friends, real friends. Friends that care, sympathize, and understand you. Buddha points out that someone who has the following traits will be able to have strong ties with his friends:

1. Generous
2. Polite
3. Helpful
4. Friendly
5. Truthful

Among other things a true friend is someone who

1. Protects you when you are in danger
2. Does not desert you when you have troubles
3. Respects your family members

A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Image source:  https://friendsresilience.org/

Protect Your Children Online

Protect Your Children Online

The rules to keep your child safe apply in all situations including the Internet: 

10 More Tips to Protect Your Children Online

 1. Beware and check your child's online activities. 

2. Inform your child not to provide personal information such as a home address, telephone number, or school name online. 

3. Highlight to your child that the person he is talking to may not be who he claims to be. 

4. Never allow your child to arrange for a face-to-face meeting with anyone without your permission. 

5. Set rules at home for the use of computers.

Image source: https://www.stylemotivation.com/ways-to-protect-your-child-online/

Wealth Preservation

Wealth Preservation

According to Patricia M Stewart, head of the Investment Advisory Group at JPMorgan Private Bank's Wealth Advice Lab, a spending rate of 3% to 4% is likely to preserve wealth. It is assumed that an equity compound return of 7% to 8% in the next 7 to 15 years is reasonable. Let's say you have a portfolio worth $500,000, you withdraw 3% ($15,000) and you receive a return of 7% ($35,000) you still end up with $20,000 extra. The extra amount allows your wealth to grow with inflation factoring in.

Image source: https://easiwealth.com.my/wealth-preservation/

Written Communication

Written Communication

The following points will help you to put across your message more effectively: 

How to write effectively at work

 1. Before you write you must be very clear about the subject matter or else your message will be misunderstood. 

2. Start with the main point as soon as possible 

3. Use short sentences and short paragraphs as if you were taking. 

4. Once you get the idea across do not add more detail. Your readers are busy people like you. 

5. When you have a long report summarize the gist of the report at the beginning to allow the readers to have a quick idea of what you are driving at. 

 The whole idea is to write briefly, clearly, and accurately.

Image source: https://www.slideshare.net/DeepNarayan2/written-communication-10562913

7 Types of Intelligence

7 Types of Intelligence

According to Dr. Howard Gardner of the Harvard University, there are seven types of intelligence: 

 1. Linguistic Intelligence 

2. Mathematical/Logical Intelligence 

3. Musical Intelligence 

4. Visual/Special Intelligence 

5. Physical Intelligence 

6. Interpersonal Intelligence 

7. Intrapersonal intelligence 

 You must possess strong linguistic and mathematical/logical intelligence in order to get good results in your examination.

Image source: https://hispanotech.ca/2020/11/09/find-out-what-type-of-intelligence-do-you-have/