VMH LIFESTYLE. BUSINESS . ENTERTAINMENT DIVERSITY & INCLUSION IS THE GAP CLOSING VMHMAGAZINE COM Are we counteracting the trend, or are companies continuing to hire and promote employees similar to the ones they already have? Self-Care is Between You and You NFL Flag Football The Biggest Stage for 'Women in Sports' Meet Quarterback Diana Flores
2022BMI
VMH magazine is your resource for business, entertainment, and lifestyle content.
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) paid tribute to the best in R&B and Hip Hop last night at its 2022 R&B/Hip Hop Awards held in Miami Beach. Busta Rhymes was honored as the BMI Icon for the indelible and unique influence that he has had on the music industry and on generations of music creators
R&B/Hip‑Hop Awards
Self-careisBetween YouandYou
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Although people of color make up close to half of the country’s population, more than three quarters (78%) of the current registered workforce in the U.S. is white. While women are holding more jobs, they remain underrepresented in leadership and executive positions; certain religious beliefs and sexual orientations remain unwelcome in professional settings.
When we forget to prioritize self care, it can not only have negative effects on our health and mood, but it also causes our relationships with ourselves and others to suffer. This can lead to further unhealthy behaviors, getting us stuck in a vicious cycle.
Diversity&Inclusion
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SideHustlesto CombatInflation
ClosingTheGap 12
CONTENTS
Different from full time or part time employment, a side hustle is a flexible way to provide services while being your own boss. You control which opportunities you want to take and can independently supplement your primary income or bridge the gap between jobs.
Whether you ' re entering into a new partnership, a new job, or business expansion through technology, metaverse or AI, you’re taking a chance. There are various ways to help make sound decisions. When it comes to relationshipss,takethetimetolearnandacceptwhopeopleareinsteadof denyingthemandtryingtochangethem.Doingsogivesyouagoodsense ofhowbesttoallocateyourtime,orifapersonisagoodmatch.Getoutof yourownway It’simportantthatwelearnwhenit’stimetoletgo,moveon and open ourselves up to new opportunities. This, however, is easier said thandone.But,ifyouwanttoliveyourgreatestlifeandunleashyourpower, youhavetoallowyourselfthefreedomtogrow.
Editor in Chief VikkiJones
Editor’s Note
For many years I worked on a publication that I felt would be an exceptional success. I believed it would aid in the discovery of ‘unseen’ talent, voices and products After pulling countless all nighters, reaching the ‘top’ and actually growing the magazine, there came a point where everything seemed to slow down Pay attention to this stillness; it’s talking to you. It is letting you know that it’s time to re evaluate, to change lanesandgoinadifferentdirection.
Asyougrow,letgo.
STAY INSPIRED " NEVER STOP CREATING. " @VMHMAGAZINE
Self-Care Self-Care Self-careisanyactivitywhichhelpsyoutoenhanceyourwell-beingandmaintainyour health bothphysicalandmental Thismeansself carecanbeanythingfromeating nourishingfoodorgettingenoughsleep,tosettingasidetimeforacreativeorspiritual endeavor.Practicinggoodself-carecanhelpyoutomanageyourmoodsandfeelyour best,withresearchshowingthatprioritizingself carecanhelpwithmanagingemotionsas wellasincreaseoverallphysicalwellness.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF P R I O R I T Y
G U I D E & W O R K B O O K
If you’re planning a trip this summer, learn how to incorporate some smart spending strategies with these tips from the financial experts at Credit One Bank:
Come up with a realistic budget. When you’re planning a trip, it’s easy to focus on the big ticket expenses like airfare and hotel rooms The reality is, when you add up all the smaller expenses, you may spend significantly more than you realize. To plan a more accurate budget, be sure you account for expenses like dining out at restaurants, paying for fuel at the pump and tickets to attractions and events. Don’t forget fees that add up, too, like tips for housekeeping, checked bags, Wi Fi access, parking and souvenirs.
Images
Find more ways to make your money work for you at CreditOneBank.com/articles. Photo courtesy of Getty
Research and book free and discounted attractions. Some attractions offer discounts for purchasing tickets in advance online, age based discounts or free admission at certain times or dates, so be sure to look into any attractions you hope to visit ahead of time If you’re a travel rewards credit card holder, start your search by looking into your redemption options If your card offers flexible options by booking through a specific partner site or dedicated travel platform, you might be able to redeem points or make your spending dollars go further toward earning more rewards for the cost of experiences, entertainment and other expenses while you travel.
5 TIPS TO STRETCH YOUR TRAVEL BUDGET
Many of the nation’s leading travel experts are predicting a surge in travel this summer. It’s no surprise that after months of restrictions, Americans are ready to set out on their next adventures. While popular destinations are likely to be open and welcoming visitors, the uptick in traffic combined with higher prices may translate into more expensive travel
Be flexible on travel dates and destinations Unless your travel is tied to a specific event or occasion, try searching with flexible dates to find the best available rates. Similarly, if you know you want to get away but you’re not particular about where, try looking for destinations offering special promotions or deals for travel during certain timeframes.
Get rewarded no matter how you travel. Using your credit card rewards to offset travel costs is a smart strategy, but not everyone wants or needs perks like miles or points that are exclusive to use with a single travel partner. With point based travel reward cards, like the Credit One Bank Wander Card, the more places you visit, the more rewards you reap along the way that can be redeemed for future experiences, statement credits, gift cards and more.
mix and match to get the best deals everyday adventurers have opportunities to earn up to five times the rewards points for doing things they love el partner
That means no matter what hotel chain you stay at, car rental agency you select or airline you fly with or as you
Consider trip interruption and cancellation policies. Planning for the unexpected can help protect you if a trip needs to end early or be canceled altogether. Unless you have travel insurance, you’re likely to lose money on non refundable expenses such as flights, event tickets or tours However, some travel companies or your credit card provider may cover reimbursement for certain prepaid expenses Look into what options are available before you travel to avoid extra headaches when the unexpected occurs during a trip
GET IT DONE!
Find more tips to make your workspace tidy and organized at eLivingtoday.com
Make sure you have furniture that can adequately store your stuff, including plenty of space for files, reference books and computer equipment Pieces need not be costly to be functional and there are plenty of attractive options available online and at both small and major retailers.
Place items you rely on frequently, such as a calculator or ruler, within arm’s reach so they can easily be put away between uses Capture these items in containers and bins to keep the space looking neat and free of clutter.
Making sense of a year’s worth of paperwork and clutter can take some serious time, especially as many people have been working from home more than normal, but getting organized can help you tackle home management tasks more efficiently. Making the office a priority can reduce frustration when it comes to spending additional time in your office while working from home
Obie Garrison
Tangled cords can make even the most organized spaces look messy, and they may pose a fire or tripping hazard Get control of your cords by storing devices you don’t use regularly and securing the remaining cords with twist ties or clips Remember to use a surge protected power strip to minimize the chance of damage should a power surge occur.
When temperatures creep up again, it signals time for an annual tradition: spring cleaning While big projects like windows are hard to overlook, don’t forget smaller areas that need attention, too, such as your home office
Photo courtesy of Pexels
"
5 Tips for Organizing Your Home Office
Arrange the space with its intended use and your own work style in mind For example, if you don’t need ample space to spread out over a large, flat work area, eliminate that space it’s simply an invitation for clutter
"A wise start to become a high achiever is implementing the love of taking a chance with a small amount of ambition Ignoring this decision would be to miss out on a valuable instinct common in most people We must be willing to betray our old self so that our new self can gain momentum
These five tips can help get you started:
Establish a filing system that lets you keep track of important papers you need to keep and have a shredder handy to help you discard any sensitive documents. Whether you alphabetize, color code or use some other method, group paperwork into segments for categories such as bills, banking, health care, auto, insurance and so on for easy access in the future.
PhotoscourtesyofGettyImages
As inflation increases, many Americans are looking for ways to make some extra cash to reach financial goals faster, save for a big purchase or simply make ends meet. In fact, 41% of Americans need additional income from sources like side hustles, according to a Bankrate survey, up from 31% in 2019
The rise of the gig economy and a variety of side hustle options may be a solution for some. One option, the Spark Driver platform, powers delivery services for Walmart, Sam's Club and other retailers, allowing drivers to deliver everything from groceries and cleaning supplies to tools and home decor. Available in more than 600 cities and all 50 states, the platform allows independent contractors to earn money by delivering or shopping and delivering orders in flexible, convenient time windows of their choosing.
FamilyFeatures
What is a Side Hustle?
While most people turn to side hustles because of the potential for additional earnings, there
Different from full time or part time employment, a side hustle is a flexible way to provide services while being your own boss You control which opportunities you want to take and can independently supplement your primary income or bridge the gap between jobs. Side hustles can even provide opportunities for people who can't work traditional jobs. In fact, 93% of Americans have a side hustle, according to research from insuranks.com, and 44% of survey respondents said they're doing it to make ends meet Gig opportunities, like shopping orders and delivering goods using your personal vehicle, are increasingly popular as side hustles
Benefits of Side Hustles
* Simplicity: The ideal side hustle is one that can be done without heavy investment or training. Many gig opportunities offer quick sign up processes through easy to use apps and only require a background check, smartphone, valid driver's license and operational vehicle
* Flexibility and Convenience: Available almost anywhere at times that work for your schedule, side hustles allow you to be your own boss and earn extra cash when you want. Be sure to pick one that fits your schedule and can be done at any time Many offer different windows of time to complete the service and let you choose where you're willing to travel to, which makes it easy to plan around other obligations.
Learn more about how to make extra cash through gig opportunities by visiting drive4spark.com or downloading the app.
"The Spark Driver platform has made a huge difference in my life," driver Christina Hinssen said. "It gives me the flexibility to make deliveries when I want and I can spend more time with my daughter It has given me extra cash to pay off my car and make extra house payments to get my house paid down"
are other benefits that can make them a fit for you and your situation, such as:
* Earning Potential: Many people turn to side hustles as a supplement to full time positions with specific, money oriented goals in mind For example, most drivers on the Spark Driver platform drive as a secondary source of income. In order to reach a desired goal, it's important to know how much you can expect to earn. When receiving an offer, the platform will show the minimum amount you earn for completing the delivery, so drivers know their earnings before accepting offers Most deliveries also allow for tips, and incentives and referrals create additional opportunities for increasing earnings.
"The Spark Driver platform has made a huge difference in my life," driver Christina Hinssen said.
"It gives me the flexibility to make deliveries when I want and I can spend more time with my daughter. It has given me extra cash to pay off my car and make extra house payments to get my house paid down."
T R A V E L E S S E N T I A L S
Work Travel quality Functionality
@ S H O P V I K K I J O N E S
Giventhesebenefits, what’snottolove?Self caremakesus happier, healthier, betterpeople sowhydowesooften struggletoactuallyputitintopractice?
Butfirst, whatisself care, really?Thesimplestdefinitionis thatself careisanyactivitywhichhelpsyoutoenhance yourwell beingandmaintainyourhealth bothphysical andmental Thismeansself carecanbeanythingfrom eatingnourishingfoodorgettingenoughsleep, tosetting asidetimeforacreativeorspiritualendeavor. Practicing goodself carecanhelpyoutomanageyourmoodsand feelyourbest, withresearchshowingthatprioritizingself carecanhelpwithmanaginganxietyanddepressionas wellasincreaseoverallphysicalwellness.
Addingtothedifficultyisthefact thatculturalandsocialnorms canstillleadtouneven distributionsbetweenpartners; whilemorewomenareworking bothpart andfull time, they alsotendtotakeonmostofthe workinthehomeaswell, with somestudiesshowingwomen spendingtwiceasmuchtimeon childcareasmenandthreetimes asmuchtimeonchores. And whiletheboundariesbetween beingatworkandbeingathome tendtobefairlyclear, itcanbe
Caring For Me, Self Care Priority
totallyselfish Beingagoodwife andmotherarestillrootedinthe ideaofputtingothers’ needs aheadofyourown buttaking thistotheextremecanleaveyou feelingburnt outandeven resentfultowardsyourloved ones.
Whenourobligationstoothers multiply, focusingattentionon ourownneedscanstarttofeel
It’s 2022, andtakingcareofourselveshasbeenahottopic forawhilenow. Thetendencytopushourselvestothelimit, atworkandinourrelationships, ismatchedonlybythe pressuretoseemasthoughwe’rehandlingeverything effortlessly. Thisisespeciallytrueforthemodernwoman, forwhomself carecanseemlikejustanotheractivityto juggleonourbusydays, andonethatoftentakesaback seat Ifyouhavetroubleprioritizingit, you’renotalone butthetruthisthatself careisavaluableskill, andone thatcanhavealmostexclusivebenefitsforourselvesand ourlovedones
Partofthedifficultycomesfromthefactthatfindingthe linebetweenself careandjustplainselfishnessiseasier saidthandone Therecentspikeinpopularityfortheterm, anditsextensiontoincludethingslikedailybubblebaths, expensivespavisits, andtreatingyourselftoashopping spree, hasmadeitsothatself carecanseemtrivialand merelyshallow.
Womeninparticularoftenholdontotheideaofself care asunnecessarilyindulgent. They’remorelikelytofeel negativeemotionsinrelationtoself care; 62 percentof womenhavesaidtheyexperienceguiltwhenpracticing self care, asopposedto 47 percentofmen
Smallstepsarebetterthannosteps Avoidtheurgeto think in all or nothing terms Can you squeeze a five minute journal session into your packed schedule, or resist the urge to say yes to a task you don’t have time for? Even tiny actions can make a big difference, so remembertogiveyourselfcredit.
The bottom line? Self care is between you and you it’s all about your relationship withyourself, andwilllookalittledifferent for everyone When we forget to prioritize self care, it can not only have negative effectsonourhealthandmood, butitalso causes our relationships with ourselves and others to suffer This can lead to further unhealthy behaviors, getting us stuckinaviciouscycle
Taking care of yourself can make you feel moreempowered, moresecure, andmore content with your everyday life Even choicesthatseemdifficult, suchassetting tough boundaries or asking your family members to help you out around the house, can have long term benefits that help you feel loved and ultimately strengthen your connections to those in yourlife.
https://www.advdermatology.com/blog/sel f care survey 2019/
Implement organically. Sometimes, self care doesn’t even have to require a huge time commitment or a radicalshift Thinkabouthowyoucantuneintoyourself during your current daily routine; maybe instead of listening to the news while folding laundry, you could put on your favorite music, or switch to a workout that providesmeditativebenefitsinsteadofsimplywearing youout
Statistics back this up women with partners and familiesfindself caretobemoreofastruggle While 69 percent of single women say that they have at least 10 minutesadayjustforthemselves, thatnumberismore than halved for married women, with only 31 percent saying the same The story is similar for women with children only 8 percentwithachildundersixsaidthey haveanhourormoretospendonthemselveseachday
harder to navigate how much time you can take for yourself when your responsibilities to your family are 24/7
The good news is that most of us recognize this in the abstract, with 89 percent of women saying they'd describesomeoneelsewhoregularlypracticesself care as “a woman with good self esteem” , who “knows it's importanttocareforherself ” Atiny 2 percentwoulduse thedescription “selfish ”
https://wwwwellandgoodcom/importance self care women/
Sources: https://wwwipsoscom/en us/80 women recognize value self nurture yet few care selves they care others#:~:text=One%20of%20every%20five% 20women,81%25%20compared%20to%2019%25
Howcanwecombatthenegativityassociatedwithself care and make it more of a priority? We often tend to think about it in black and white terms more time spentonyourselfequalslesstimespentcaringforyour familyandfriends. Butit’simportanttorememberthata betteryouisgoodforeveryonearoundyou. Takingtime for yourself can increase your energy levels, help you manageyouremotions, andmakeyoumoreattentiveto thosearoundyou allbenefitsthatyourlovedoneswill appreciateaswell
Now we just need to apply the same wisdom to ourselves Ifyoufeellikeyou’reinneedofafewtipson howtoapproachhealthyself care, hereareafewthings toremember:
Behonestaboutyourchoices It’stough sometimes eating that cookie is self care, and sometimes its just a substitute for a deeper need Being able to tell the differencerequiressomeself examination and honesty about your long term wants and goals A great first step is simply askingyourself: “WhatdoIneedtofeellike mybestself?”
But don’t beat yourself up Self care is, ultimately, about loving yourself Negativity and self punishment aren’t going to help you get there, and it’s important to remember that building yourself up is an important part of the process
Written By Vikki Jones
Once in a while, virtual assistants will find themselves in a dead end, especially when tasked with finding solutions to the client’s needs Some would find themselves giving up, but for resourceful people, these dead ends are new beginnings. Virtual assistants that can be relied on to work independently save business owners a lot of valuable and helps for a seamless workflow
1. TIME MANAGEMENT
2. DATA ORGANIZATION
THE
Online calendars, scheduling platforms, automation tools, cloud storage it seems like every task has a tool for it these days It is true and a lot of them can be learned easily through online courses. Applicants with knowledge of the latest productivity tools, including those in the Microsoft, Google, and Apple ecosystems will have an easier time adapting to the role
There are better ways to handle multiple assignments than traditional error prone multitasking Batching is one of the top skills of a virtual assistant that allows for more efficient work. Instead of doing multiple tasks for each of the clients’ need, seasoned professionals lump together similar tasks at certain parts of the day. For example, instead of responding to emails as they come, top notch virtual assistants can set a time in a day for email correspondence, enabling them to have better focus
3 ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Skills That Make Businesses More Flexible
Information is king in the digital age, and for virtual assistants, dealing with bulks of data can be difficult without the proper tools and skills Knowing how to keep files in a properly labelled, cloud based storage is crucial in making information readily accessible when needed. Top notch virtual assistants also know the importance of having secure storage for details like account IDs, passwords, client information, appointments, birthdays, and other information that can be crucial in a project.
6. RESOURCEFULNESS AND RELIABILITY
Virtual assistants must have the capability to deal with multiple clients and schedules all the time Without proper time management skills, it is easy to miss out on important details which may result in lost productivity. It will be best if the aspiring virtual assistant has knowledge of cloud based calendars and scheduling tools.
5. BATCHING INSTEAD OF MULTITASKING
Virtual ASSISTANT
Virtual assistants are the unsung heroes of the work from home era, helping executives, business owners, and other professionals to stay efficient and focused on the core business amid a very unpredictable pandemic environment. Here are the top virtual assistant skills that businesses need to keep an eye on when hiring.
The pandemic has forced businesses to embrace digital based operations with the rise of work from home arrangements. And in this “new normal” of work, virtual assistants have become very valuable in navigating the “new normal ”
Important communications, information, memos, and documents would always go through virtual assistants. It is important that virtual assistants have a keen eye for factual and typographical errors, off messaging formats, and other possible mistakes before they become public Virtual assistants can literally save businesses by having a keen eye for details.
4. ADAPT TO PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS
Crucial instructions can be lost in translation if a virtual assistant is not fluent in your language. That’s why one of the top skills of a virtual assistant that most businesses are looking for is communication. Virtual assistants who have good written and verbal communication skills will have an easier time adapting to your business needs
Working remotely can be a drag if your virtual assistant is not in sync with your work hours. Anything big can come up within business hours and virtual assistants who cannot work within the same schedule will have a big problem with many tasks. But with a global talent pool, businesses can look for virtual assistants that have no problem adjusting to their time zones for better flexibility
For an employer, one advantage of hiring a virtual assistant is the flexibility to contract for just the services they need, and outsourcing will be key in finding the right talent for your business. Outsourcing virtual assistants will free you up for strategic thinking while reducing overhead costs More time on the core tasks means faster growth for the business. This article originally appeared in Emapta.
arrangements, and managing email accounts. Some virtual assistants specialize in offering graphic design, blog writing, bookkeeping, social media, and marketing services.
Virtual assistants will continue to be in demand as the world embraces the digital age. Typical tasks a virtual assistant might perform include scheduling appointments, making phone calls, making travel
8 TIME FLEXIBILITY
7 COMMUNICATION
Virtualassistantscanbereliedonto workindependentlysavebusiness ownersalotofvaluableandhelps foraseamlessworkflow.
During the 7 14 day active phase, it’s important to create and follow a singular diet of kitchari, which consists of mung beans, basmati rice, spices and vegetables As a complete protein that’s easy to digest, kitchari helps reset your digestive system while restoring digestive fire and supporting the elimination of toxins If you’re looking for a place to start, consider trying a few different recipes online, or purchase from a natural foods store
As you prepare yo warmer months, y detoxification as eliminating toxins period may includ combined with lig
Active Cleansing Phase
According to A ancient Indian sc body healing and may be beneficia these steps toward deto cat o o t e experts at Buddha Teas:
If kitchari isn’t right for you, opt for oatmeal in the morning and steamed vegetables or vegetable soup with basmati rice for lunch and dinner. Be conscious of portion control; eat enough for satisfaction without overeating. Aim to finish your evening meal 2 4 hours before sunset.
Aim for a Healthy Lifestyle
Preparation Phase
Before considering the specifics of daily routines and phases of detoxification, it’s important to focus your lifestyle around healthy practices. For example, aim to minimize stress by participating in uplifting activities such as mindful walking, meditation, spending time in nature or other hobbies that put you at ease. Remember to rest both your mind and body, and get an appropriate amount of sleep each night.
Take 3 7 days to prepare your body for detoxification The start of your journey should involve the elimination or drastic reduction of caffeine, tobacco, alcohol and recreational drugs.
5 Steps to Detoxify Your Body Naturally
Create a Morning Routine
To stay on track during the active phase, it is helpful to create routines, starting with your morning wake up call After brushing your teeth and other daily to dos, try relaxing techniques like sipping 8 16 ounces of hot water with lemon juice, self massaging, taking a warm or hot shower or bath, gently exercising and combining these activities with an appropriate active phase morning meal
Proper relaxation prior to bedtime can help encourage restful sleep Avoid watching TV about one hour before bedtime and consider massaging your feet with herbal oil for a few minutes before rinsing with cool water. Drink a peaceful beverage like a milk substitute mixed with Buddha Teas’ Golden Milk, which is developed from an Ayurvedic recipe that provides satisfaction and comfort while supporting the body and mind.
Create an Evening Routine
As your active phase comes to a close, slowly reintroduce foods like dairy, wheat, soy, meat and fish. Continue activities like gentle yoga, walking, tai chi and qi gong then rejuvenate your body with hot beverages like turmeric ginger tea, chaga tea and mushroom tea.
Learn more about detoxification and its benefits at www.BuddhaTeas.com.
Another important aspect of the active phase is liquid intake. Drink hot water with lemon juice in the morning. Throughout the day, consider a hot tea with bitter herbs like Buddha Teas’ Detox Dharma Blend. This delicious option consists of carefully chosen herbs and spices that come together to help eliminate toxins. Other effective hot teas include nettle leaf, dandelion root and dandelion leaf.
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
BUSTA RHYMES HONORED AS BMI ICON AT THE 2022 BMI R&B/HIP HOP AWARDS
2022 BMI
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During the celebration, BMI recognized the top producersandsongwritersofthepreviousyear’s35 best performing R&B/Hip Hop songs in the U.S., leadinguptotheprestigiousSongoftheYear,which wentto“Peaches,”writtenbyDanielCaesar,GIVĒON, Bernard “HARV” Harvey, Luis Manuel Martinez Jr. (Shndō) and Andrew Watt. The song entered Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart at number one and has beencertifiedtripleplatinumbytheRIAA.
Photo Courtesy: BMI
DJ Khaled welcomed the crowd and kicked off the celebration, while DJ Nasty kept everyone on their feet with sets throughout the evening. The music continued with soul trap singer and rapper Morray performing his hit songs, “Bad Situations” and “Quicksand,” and Nigerian singer/songwriter and producerPheelzperforming“Electricity”andhisviral hit,“Finesse”
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc) paid tribute to the best in R&B and Hip Hop last night at its 2022 R&B/Hip Hop Awards held at LIV Nightclub Miami Beach Busta Rhymes was honored as the BMI Icon for the indelible and unique influence that he has had on the music industry and on generations of music creators.Inaddition,BMI’sR&B/Hip HopProducerof the Year, Song of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Publisher of the Year and BMI’s top 35 most performedpopsongsintheU.S.ofthepreviousyear werealsoannounced.Theprivateeventwashosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President,Creative(Atlanta)CatherineBrewton.
R&B/Hip Hop Awards
@vmhmagazine
Relax your mind and body.
S t e p h a n i e
After years of observing anxiety in people and children, Stephanie Brinkley Wellon developed a literary character who mirrored the common signs of an anxious person
Medical and behavioral professionals strive to help, and one such person is Stephanie Brinkley Wellon Between being a therapist, author, and facilitator, Wellons is paving the way to use children’s literature as a tool to work through anxiety.
Between 2016 and 2019, approximately 5 8 million children between the ages of three and seventeen were diagnosed with anxiety Anxiety in children was already on the rise and continues to rise today
addresses anxietyin children creatively.
The Author Behind Misty Twisty Knot
Counselor Education for Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida Master of Education (M.Ed.) Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida
Misty Twisty Knot: Understanding Emotions and Behaviors Associated with Anxiety was published in 2014 and recently revised in an “anniversary edition.” The book is coupled with Misty Twisty Knot Thinking Cap: The Power of Your Thoughts.
Inspiration for writing Misty Twisty Knot surfaced when Wellon worked as a practicing clinician with young elementary students. She struggled to find coping and instructional material regarding anxiety relatable to the children
An Insight Into Stephanie Brinkley Wellon
After years of observing anxiety in people and children, Stephanie Brinkley Wellon developed a literary character who mirrored the common signs of an anxious person. Through the book, the character learns the importance of using emotional intelligence to address anxiety in a therapeutic setting The book highlights evidence based practices and strategies used for treating anxiety
The book only took one day to write because of her knowledge and fluid writing abilities Wellon comments that the book was “ an opportunity for me to really move in a way that I had never been able to move individually and utilize my creativity as a therapist.”
Wellon believes teaching begins with awareness of mental health and employing tools like books to learn to “talk it out, not act it out.” Knowledge is power, and Wellon plans to continue sharing her experiences and understanding of anxiety in literary form to touch the anxious hearts and minds of children and adults alike.
With the stress of the COVID 19 pandemic and increasing inflation financially affecting families of all wage classes, there continues to be a rise in children and anxiety, unfortunately. In 2020, 9.2% of children were diagnosed with anxiety. According to Wellon, teaching children and adults the significance of emotional IQ (identifying and dealing with emotion) is more important than ever
Wellon structured her book as a successful teaching and diagnostic tool for clinicians and readers to utilize in understanding anxious behaviors She especially wants her book to help reach and teach minority communities where mental health is stigmatized and ignored.
Anxiety in Today’s Climate
Wellon is a licensed psychotherapist and owns a private practice, Brinkwell Therapy and Counseling, in Palatka, FL She is a mother of five children and several grandchildren and is happily married Raised in a rural and agricultural Florida area, she learned ethics from an early age that helped her achieve her inspiring success. Wellon has impressive credentials that include:
Written by Amanda Cauchi
Emerging As an Author
What was Wellon’s Inspiration?
Licensure under the state of Florida and the Department of Health Study of Sociology at Bethune Cookman College
Misty Twisty Knot: Understanding Emotions and Behaviors Associated with Anxiety
Changing your thinking patterns and thinking habits to help distract you from being caught up in overwhelming thoughts and emotional pain can be difficult, however by learning new strategies for replacing negative thoughts with happy thoughts and memories can be mastered with time and patience
m i s t y t w i s t y k n o t
To the fear and worry that often takes root in our early beginnings of childhood and paralyzes us thereafter: We come now to serve you notice that you are no longer welcome to live inside us anymore "You must leave now "
Teaching children and adults the significance of emotional IQ (identifying and dealing with emotion) is more important than ever.
Misty Twisty Knot, Thinking Cap: The Power of Your Thoughts
PRIORITIZING REAL DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IS ULTIMATELY A SMART BUSINESS CHOICE AND A SMART SOCIAL CHOICE. THE UPSIDE IS THAT MANY OF THE DIFFICULTIES OF DIVERSITY HIRING WILL SIMPLY DISAPPEAR ONCE DIVERSITY BECOMES THE NORM RATHER THAN THE EXCEPTION.
"Prioritizing real diversity and inclusion is ultimately a smart business choice and a smart social choice The upside is that many of the difficulties of diversity hiring will simply disappear once diversity becomes the norm rather than the exception "
But how do we tell real diversity and inclusion from efforts that are just for show? Creating real diversity is a complicated process; our hiring methods and economic system are quite often stuck in patterns which tend to keep companies the same in the long run The key to making diverse hires that will also help to strengthen your company is to break out of these patterns and start adopting ones that recruit talent from areas you wouldn’t otherwise look
Diversity doesn’t simply have an effect on your workplace either the positive benefits can extend to your company’s financial performance Having a more diverse pool of ideas in your workforce means that you can access previously untapped markets And for all the reasons above, more and more consumers look favorably on businesses that have a diverse employment record The result is that diversity, when done right, often leads to higher revenues up to 19 percent, according to a study by the Boston Consulting Group in
But it’s important to note that companies need to have both diversity and inclusion the first is about who your employees are, and the second is about how they’re actually treated when they’re at work While simply increasing diversity might seem like enough on its own, in reality these two ideas have to go hand in hand So if your workplace is diverse but not inclusive, it likely won’t remain diverse for very long And while it’s great to be inclusive, you may be missing out if you don’t make an effort to promote diversity as well
D i v e r s i t &y I n c l u s i o n
The truth is, without specific effort to counteract the trend, most companies will continue to hire and promote employees similar to the ones they already have And although people of color make up close to half of the country’s population, more than three quarters (78%) of the current registered workforce in the U S is white While women are holding more jobs, they remain underrepresented in leadership and executive positions; certain religious beliefs and sexual orientations remain unwelcome in professional settings
2018
One thing we should get straight from the start diversity is a good thing Having a variety of viewpoints in a workplace is proven to lead to greater innovation and gives rise to more well rounded and thoroughly considered ideas And the returns are increasing, since a diverse workforce can help to attract more diversity, which means that your company automatically has the opportunity to recruit from a bigger talent pool Fundamentally, it is often simply more enjoyable to work in a space that’s inclusive and diverse after all, few people prefer to work somewhere that is hostile to new ideas and unaccepting of basic differences
For certain positions, many minorities are still fighting an uphill battle against hiring bias Some degree of bias is unavoidable, which makes it all the more important to be aware of the possibility and correct for it Bias isn’t the same as outright prejudice, and to some degree, it’s natural Job connections are often made through networks which are governed by our social spheres and employees are more likely to be hired if they are considered to be a good “fit” with the company Potential hires who don’t fit the mold are more of an unknown, and are therefore automatically considered an unsafe bet
Diversity hiring is a bit of a fraught subject in the business world today Most of us agree that diversity is a beneficial thing to have at work, and many companies make a point of touting the various identities that are represented in their ranks
ALTHOUGH PEOPLE OF COLOR MAKE UP CLOSE TO HALF OF THE COUNTRY’S POPULATION, MORE THAN THREE-QUARTERS (78%) OF THE CURRENT REGISTERED WORKFORCE IN THE U S IS WHITE WHILE WOMEN ARE HOLDING MORE JOBS, THEY REMAIN UNDERREPRESENTED IN LEADERSHIP AND EXECUTIVE POSITIONS; CERTAIN RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND SEXUAL ORIENTATIONS REMAIN UNWELCOME IN PROFESSIONAL SETTINGS.
Sowhatshouldyoufocusonwhentryingtoincreasediversity?
https://wwwbetterupcom/blog/cultural fit?hsLang=en https://wwwbcgcom/publications/2018/how diverse leadership teams boost innovation
Prioritizing real diversity and inclusion is ultimately a smart business choice and a smart social choice The upside is that many of the difficulties of diversity hiring will simply disappear once diversity becomes the norm rather than the exception
In reality, there are probably many people of different backgrounds who are equally qualified for a job how you find them, and then decide between them, is the difficult part That’s why hiring procedures should be thoughtfully constructed, with the long term interests of the company in mind
That’s why hiring for diversity and inclusion isn’t a clear cut process, and can’t be reduced simply to a surface level issue When companies make diversity hires simply to fill boardroom seats and improve their optics, the results can be mixed It can be beneficial, especially in the short term, to demonstrate your willingness to include new voices But if the new hire isn’t an immediate fit for your company and no efforts are made to increase inclusivity, the situation likely won’t work out in the long term The result is that your company won’t really have made any diversity gains and may even have made the situation worse
It’s not simply a matter of gender and skin color It’s also important to consider qualities beyond the superficial such as nationality socioeconomic background age and school of thought Companies that really value diversity and inclusion value it for more than just reasons of appearance
Use quotas as a guideline Hiring quotas can be a good way to track your company’s trends, but its not always necessary to treat them as hard and fast rules They should be flexible, and adapt to the current state of your company as well as your hiring pool
Here’safewkeypointstokeepinmind:
Sources:
The major problem here is that this strategy also encourages the misconception that all underrepresented minorities are hired simply for their diversity, rather than for their actual qualifications This, of course, can lead to a lot of workplace conflict Other employees may believe that a diversity hire is undeserving of the position, and the new employee is forced to deal with this potential undermining of their abilities They may even begin to doubt their own qualifications as a result, leading to a dip in self confidence which could affect their work performance
Consider your employees as a whole The combination of getting to know someone solely in a work environment and the need to consider diversity characteristics can result in a perspective of your employees that’s a bit one dimensional But reducing people to a single quality is exactly what you don’t want when trying to increase diversity Try to keep things in context
https://wwwgreatplacetoworkcom/resources/blog/why is diversity inclusion in the workplace important https://wwwbetterupcom/blog/diversity hiring
T I F F
R E D C A R P E T
Gayle King attends the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” at Roy Thomson Hall.
Kirsten Pejman and Ali Pejman attend the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” at Roy Thomson Hall.
PoitierHenderson,AishaLabarrie,PamelaPoitier,BeverlyPoitier-SherriPoitier,AnikaPoitierandSydneyattendthe2022TorontoInternationalFilmFestivalworldpremiereof“Sidney”atRoyThomsonHall.
Brian Gersh,Executive Producer, attends the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” atRoy Thomson Hall.
Oprah Winfrey, Producer, attends the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” at Roy Thomson Hall.
TORONTOINTERNATIONAL
FILMFESTIVALWORLD PREMIEREOFSIDNEY
Photo Credit: Arthur Mola
From producer Oprah Winfrey and directed by Reginald Hudlin, this revealing documentary honors the legendary Sidney Poitier and his legacy as an iconic actor, filmmaker and activist at the center of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement Featuring candid interviews with Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand, Spike Lee and many more, the film is also produced by Derik Murray, in close collaboration with the Poitier family “Sidney” premieres globally on Apple TV+ on September 23, 2022
Reggie Hudlin, Director/Executive producer, attends the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” at Roy Thomson Hall.
Derik Murray, Producer, attends the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” at Roy Thomson Hall.
Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey, Producer, attend the 2022 Toronto International FilmFestival world premiere of “Sidney”at Roy Thomson Hall.
Catherine Cyr, Executive Producer, and Terry Wood, Executive Producer attend the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival world premiere of “Sidney” at Roy Thomson Hall.
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The office space, hardly inspiring meaningful collaborative work, needed a creative jumpstart. Orange CountyinteriordesignerSamiaVerbistknewthismodern officespacehadexcellentdesignpotential."Thefirsttime I saw the office space, it was a blank canvas. The walls and floors, which we couldn't change because it's a rented office, were neutral with beige and dark gray hues," states Verbist in her blog article. But she quickly emphasizedhowmuchofanassetitwas.
Huntington Beach-based interior designer Samia Verbist offers comprehensive, exhaustive interior design and room renovation. She exhibits her skill throughanotablecasestudy:amodernofficespacein OrangeCounty
Orange County interior designer Samia Verbist crating an outdoor space
In her recent blog article, Modern Office Ideas for Sparking Collaboration, French born and Huntington Beach based interior designer Samia Verbist, and her business, Samia Verbist Interior Design, exhibit how combining creative ideas can transform rooms for clients
Interior Designer Samia Verbist
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Every business needs capital to get started Your business plan’s financial section should provide a clear idea of the capital you need to launch Most businesses rely on multiple financial sources, including:
4. Develop a Marketing Plan
Can this product or service be delivered safely for employees and customers?
3. Fund Your Business
2 Write a Business Plan
If you’re looking to start a business, one of the biggest obstacles can be knowing where to start Many opportunities exist for small businesses today, including support and funding for start ups, especially for minority business owners Starting a small business doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider these five steps to get on the right track
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Are there similar products and services out there, and are they succeeding?
Dotting the “I’s” and crossing the “T’s” is necessary for every business Details include choosing your location and registering your business; applying for required licenses and permits, including federal and state tax IDs; and opening your business bank account. Also consulting with an accountant experienced in helping small businesses can ensure you have your financial ducks in a row Starting a small business is a daunting challenge, but it can also be a rewarding opportunity Taking the time to fully explore and utilize all the resources at your disposal can help your business become successful. Find more advice for small business owners at huntington com/smallbusiness/small business resources
to fully think through every aspect of your proposed idea. The SBA can help with research of business plans Enlist the help of other business owners during the process, if you can, to understand how their plans helped them and what to avoid
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Ask other business owners about challenges and rewards to explore whether this is a good option for you. Use market analysis tools recommended by resources such as the Small Business Administration (SBA) to get to know the market for your business.
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Make sure you understand the current market for your business This step is crucial to turn an idea into a full fledged business plan
Is this product or service in demand right now?
Creating a brand identity and communicating it well is crucial to success Consider hiring or contracting marketing services to help you choose your business name, create a logo, build your website and develop a strategic marketing plan to get the word out about your business
1 Do Your Research
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Could the business support rapid growth if it really took off?
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No business can find funding, investors or partners without a solid business plan Learning to write a comprehensive plan also forces you
SBA loans can be one option. For example, Huntington Lift Local Business is a small business lending program focused on serving minority , women and veteran owned businesses. A top SBA 7(a) lending program, it has developed creative lending options and other features to help bring relief, recovery and growth to small businesses. Through the program, businesses can secure SBA guaranteed loans from $1,000 150,000 with:
STARTING A BUSINESS
“The pandemic has caused people to re evaluate and seek out a change, with many choosing to start their own business,” said Maggie Ference, Huntington’s SBA program director “Everyone deserves a shot at success and our program delivers a solution to customers when they need it most, whether for a startup or an established business looking to grow ”
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