KC FairGame: June 2020

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Human-Artificial intelligence collaborations best for skin cancer diagnosis

Artificial intelligence (AI) improved skin cancer diagnostic accuracy when used in collaboration with human clinical checks.

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Monday, June 29, 2020

8 Best Air Purifiers for a Healthy Home

Whether you suffer from allergies, have pet friends, or live in a climate where bacteria thrive, the best air purifier will make sure that your home’s air is clean and fresh at all times. We all clean our houses regularly, but it is easy to look over the most important element in our homes, apart from the surfaces, and that’s air. Thanks to the best air purifier, the air in your home will be more breathable and cleaner.

Why You Should Trust Us

If you are looking for which best air purifier is for you, we here at Lifehack have put in the time and effort to find it. There are so many to pick and choose from, so we sifted through dozens to find purifiers suitable for many people. For these air purifier reviews, we will be suggesting home filters based on three criteria:

CADR: The rating that’s used to determine an air purifier's effectiveness.
Room Size: The area that an air purifier takes up in a room.
Noise: How loud and distracting it can get.

With these in mind, here are the suggestions for the best air purifiers you can get.

1. Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier

If you’re looking for an ozone air purifier, this is a solid option. The HEPA filter is capable of capturing up to 99.97% of airborne pollutants, dust mites, and more. The filters provided are able to be washed, and the air purifier has a CADR of 360 square feet. It’s suitable for kitchens and medium to large bedrooms or living spaces. That said, the air purifier does have some issues with the sensor, particularly in the auto mode. You’re also stuck with the color of this air purifier as is: black. Buy this Air Purifier!

2. Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier

When considering an alternative, we suggest Blueair’s air purifier. It’s an air purifier that addresses allergies and is safe for pets. It’s able to capture 99% of airborne pollutants and is capable of filtering odors from smoking, pets, cooking, and wildfires. Even the sound it makes isn’t loud. The lowest setting is a sound equivalent to a whisper, and the highest is a sound equivalent to rainfall. One downside is the fact this filter is relatively small and is meant to be stationed on the floor. It’s about as tall as a small child, so it’s easy for children to stick their fingers or other objects into the air cleaner. Also, considering the size, it’s not built to handle larger rooms unless you get multiple. Even then, customers noted that the sound could be irritating when using multiple filters in a room. Buy this Air Purifier!

3. Hathaspace Smart True HEPA Air Purifier

For the best air purifier for your money, the Hathaspace air purifier is a good option. It allows you to adjust settings manually and works well as an air purification system capable of capturing 99.97% of air pollutants, gas, and more. It also comes with a 2-year warranty, so it’s not as risky as other brands that may only have a month or three-month warranty. That said, many customers noted that it’s not good at keeping back odors as much. The air purifier has a tendency to shut off when the air quality is good, regardless of if the room smells bad. Buy this Air Purifier!

4. GENIANI Home Air Purifier

The air purifier from Geniani is another solid option for those looking to fight off allergies and want efficiency in their air purifier. The air cleanser comes with a 2-year warranty and is known for its power while still remaining quiet. You can choose between three speeds, and it even has a nightlight option, too. All in all, it’s a great product, though people struggled a little bit with the nightlight option. The light is a little too bright when it’s in the dark, making it disruptive if you’re the type of person who prefers completely dark rooms when sleeping. Buy this Air Purifier!

5. Honeywell HFD-120-Q QuietClean Oscillating Air Purifier

Another consideration for air purifier home use is Honeywell’s air purifier. One of the big perks from this air cleanser is that the three filters are able to be washed and used permanently, saving you the struggle of buying additional filters. The company also provides replacement filters should the filters perform poorly or get worn down. Beyond that, it’s capable of capturing 99% of air pollutants and is energy efficient, too. The air purifier itself is quiet, however, and if you allow it to swivel, the parts themselves could make a loud squeaking sound after a while. It’s also not as strong as other air purifiers around, with customers noting that a ceiling fan may be better. Buy this Air Purifier!

6. PARTU Air Purifier

Another cheap option is the PARTU air purifier. Some of the main selling points is that it has an ultra-silent sleep mode, a 4-step filtration process, and serves as a night light thanks to the color ring on it. Similar to other small filters, this filter isn’t going to be very strong. Furthermore, many customers noted that the filter emitted a sweet scent from it after a while. Buy this Air Purifier!

7. LEVOIT Air Purifier

The LEVOIT air purifier is a compact air cleaner that actually is actually quite strong for its size. Its CADR is high enough it can cover a 219 square foot space. And although it’s strong, it’s designed to make minimal noise. Pair that up with it being ozone-free and energy-efficient, and you have a solid air cleaner. However, like most other air filters you’ll find, it is good at cleaning the air but isn't as strong when dealing with odors in particular. Furthermore, despite its strength, it struggles to handle larger rooms, making it more suitable for small rooms. Buy this Air Purifier!

8. Coway White HEPA Air Purifier

The final filter that we have found is this one from Coway. It’s designed to handle room sizes of up to 361 square feet, offers a 4-stage filtration system, and also has an eco-mode to conserve energy when it’s done filtering. One of the largest criticisms for this air purifier is that the fan settings range widely from the noise pollution. Some customers compared the settings between 2 and 3 to a weaker version of the 1st setting (barely making a sound) to a jet engine starting up. Some people also noted that the air purifier tends to wobble and shake, too. Buy this Air Purifier!

FAQ

Q: Do air purifiers really work? A: In short, yes. An air purifier consists of one filter (or more) and a fan that pulls in and circulates the air. Exactly like water filters, the idea is that the home air purifiers will capture all of the pollutants and particles before pushing out the rest of the air. As for the filters, depending on the brand, you’ll have different kinds of filters. Filters can be made of paper, fiberglass, or mesh. So long as you are taking care of the air purifier by replacing the filters on occasion, an air purifier should work smoothly and without any major issues. Q: Can HEPA Air Purifiers prevent Covid-19? A: Unfortunately, there is no air purifier that can do anything to prevent or kill the coronavirus. As mentioned above, air purifiers focus on collecting particles and pollutants. As such, an air purifier, HEPA or any air cleaner, can capture the virus, but the virus will be able to live within the filter for a period of time.

Final Thoughts

The market is filled with all kinds of air purifiers, and overall, many of them are capable of handling air quality. That said, there may be slight issues depending on what you’re looking for. No matter the case, you are taking the risk of potentially getting a purifier that may run into issues with smells or making too much noise. It’s part of the territory it seems. However, any one of the above air purifiers will help clean up the air and leave your house at least a little fresher.

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Saturday, June 27, 2020

Alzheimer's: New gene may drive earliest brain changes

A newly discovered Alzheimer's gene appears to drive the first appearance of amyloid plaque in the brain, and could lead to new therapies that prevent the disease from developing.

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Man Uses Dad’s Lucky Coin to Scratch Lottery Ticket And Wins $4 Million for the 2nd Time

Mark Clark may be the luckiest man in Michigan after winning a second $4 million prize in the state’s instant game lottery using his father's lucky coin.

The post Man Uses Dad’s Lucky Coin to Scratch Lottery Ticket And Wins $4 Million for the 2nd Time appeared first on Good News Network.

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Repeated head impacts associated with later-life depression symptoms, worse cognitive function

In the largest study of its kind, an association has been found in living patients exposed to repetitive head impacts and difficulties with cognitive functioning and depression years or decades later.

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Scientists devise new 'bar code' method to identify critical cell types in the brain

A discovery could pave the way for future studies aimed at developing solutions to ALS and other vexing neuromuscular diseases.

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Garbage Men Break Down in Tears When Residents Surprise Them With ‘Thank You’ Party Attended By Mayor

Sanitation workers Saul Scruggs and Keon Richardson were shocked to find a thank-you party waiting for them in Miami Beach neighborhood.

The post Garbage Men Break Down in Tears When Residents Surprise Them With ‘Thank You’ Party Attended By Mayor appeared first on Good News Network.

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Friday, June 26, 2020

COVID-19 Lockdown is Bringing Fathers Closer to Their Kids With Improved Relationships for 40% Surveyed

A pair of new studies reveals a silver lining amid the COVID gloom: Many fathers feel closer to their kids, and want to create a new normal going forward.

The post COVID-19 Lockdown is Bringing Fathers Closer to Their Kids With Improved Relationships for 40% Surveyed appeared first on Good News Network.

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10 Best Laptop Stands To Work From Home Like a Pro

Whether you are a full-time freelancer or a corporate professional working from home temporarily due to COVID-19, a good laptop stand can change the way you work both physically and mentally. The best laptop stands will help you keep your posture in the right place so that you don’t suffer any physical discomfort in the long run, such as neck pain, headache, or carpal tunnel((OrthoInfo: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)), thus allowing you to be more productive.

Why You Should Trust Us

These are products that we research and verify out of the many available options. We make a point of finding quality products for you to pick from so you don’t have to go and hunt for the right one.

Buying Guide

Before getting to the products, we considered the choices based on three specific criteria. They are as follows:

Material
Installation
Cooling

These three elements are important from a laptop perspective, but also what makes them the best laptop stands, too. You need a strong material to support a laptop and endure various environments. You also have to consider how easy it is to place your laptop on the stand. Lastly, a stand will also keep a laptop’s air circulation going and prevent overheating. You want to make sure the stand is able to do that for a laptop, too.

1. Rain Design mStand Laptop Stand

Our top suggestion is the Rain Design mStand Laptop Stand. Out of the options we have on this list, this is one of the best stands around. It’s made entirely out of aluminum and is designed to lift laptops. Considering there is no need for attachments, it’s easy to install the stand with a laptop. It’s all a matter of sliding your laptop down onto the stand. There is even a cable hole in the back to allow wires to pass through. It also works well with cooling since the aluminum serves as a heat sink for the laptop. The only significant drawback to this brand of this stand is the fact it’s designed for Macbook products specifically. Buy this laptop stand here!

2. Pyle Laptop Stand

Our runner-up is a stand designed for PC laptops as well as other equipment in mind. The Pyle Laptop Stand is capable of easy height adjustment and is able to hold up laptops, DJ equipment, turntables, and more. The legs are also designed ergonomically and are anti-slip. You can also pack the stand for easy portability. This got put as the runner up as, while this piece of computer furniture is sturdy, you do have to assemble it yourself, and the product doesn’t come with instructions on building it. Also, while you can adjust the height of the stand, you can’t adjust the width, which can cause problems depending on the size of your equipment. Buy this laptop stand here!

3. Steklo Laptop Stand

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option for computer furniture, the Stekle laptop stand is a solid option. It requires a little bit of assembly to attach it to your laptop, but it provides the same perks as the Rain Design laptop stand. The only difference is this stand is lower to the ground, and you’re not able to adjust the height by too much. If you’re particularly tall, or your desk is too short for you, you may still have to stack it up on some boxes or books for your laptop to be at eye level. This stand is also designed for Mac laptops. Buy this laptop stand here!

4. Nexstand Laptop Stand

A stand that PCs and Macs can use is the Nexstand laptop stand. This stand will work for any laptop 11.6 inches or larger. You can even adjust the height. The stand is made of nylon and premium metal fitting that can hold up to 20 pounds. While this stand can handle a lot of weight on it, it does have to remain stationary or else it could get damaged easily. If you’re more accident-prone than others, this stand may not last if you accidentally drop it on the ground, so be careful! Buy this laptop stand here!

5. AmazonBasics Ventilated Laptop Stand

If you’re looking for a simple stand, AmazonBasics has you covered. Similar to other office supplies from this brand, the stand is a wire-frame metal mesh. It’s compact, making it highly portable, and has adjustable height as well. It is also one of the cheapest stands on our list. That said, you do get what you pay for. The stoppers on the front are higher than usual, and if you don’t have an external keyboard, you can risk your wrists resting on those stoppers constantly. Also, since the height is adjusted through locks, you can risk your fingers getting hurt when adjusting the height. Buy this laptop stand here!

6. Neetto Laptop Bed Desk

If you’re the type of person who needs a really tall stand or works in bed, the Neetto laptop bed desk is another option. It also comes with another desk that you can use as a separate shelving unit. The stand is adjustable, light, portable, and sturdy, and you can use the portable laptop stand for various purposes. The extra shelf can be used as a stand for your tablet, or a table to enjoy a meal. That being said, the size of these laptop desk stands are fairly large. While that means you don’t have to worry about space on this desk, you have to worry about how much space this desk takes on any surface you put it on. Buy this laptop stand here!

7. Nulaxy Laptop Stand

Another cheap alternative is the Nulazy laptop stand. Think of it as a budget-friendly Rain Design laptop stand. It lifts a laptop 6 inches, allowing it to be at eye level. The material is strong as it’s able to hold up to four kilograms, which is more than plenty. You can even disassemble it into three parts for easy transportation. The catch with this stand is that it seems to wear out more as you use it. The overall design and how everything locks in place seems to be the biggest concern from customers. Buy this laptop stand here!

8. 1home Wood Monitor Stand Riser

Considering the success of the Rain Design laptop stand, a massive block of material seems to be the way to go. Enter 1home’s Wood monitor stand riser. This stand is made of sturdy wood, making it easy to assemble and also sleek in design. Naturally, since this is a stand for monitors, it may not work perfectly for laptops. A major downside is that customers have reported that parts didn’t fit during the installation of the stand. Buy this laptop stand here!

9. Soundance Laptop Stand

A similar design to Nulaxy, this stand is designed with PCs and Macs in mind. It comes with a 30-day warranty, which is nice in case you run into issues within the first few weeks of purchase. The material of choice is aluminum, making it sturdy and able to cool laptops with ease. The only drawback to this stand is that it’s built for laptops of specific dimensions. This stand is able to hold laptops that are between 10 and 15.6 inches. Anything beyond that and the stand may struggle to provide stability. Buy this laptop stand here!

10. SimpleHouseware Metal Desk Monitor Stand Riser

The final option is SimpleHouseware’s metal desk monitor stand riser. This is a decent alternative to the previous monitor stand since assembly isn’t as much of a hassle. The inclusion of a tray and other storage pockets makes it convenient for you to store other items you need close by. That said, you do get what you pay for, and this is a cheap solution to the problem. People reported their monitor wobbles on the stand, along with other parts not portioned properly. Installing it could be brute-forced at worst, but it’s a temporary fix. Buy this laptop stand here!

Final Thoughts

There are all kinds of laptop desk stands out there for you to pick from, and it all depends on what you are looking for. From the research though, the cheaper you go, the more you are sacrificing the three qualities that make a stand one of the best laptop stands to buy. If you need to get a stand right now, keep this in mind and consider putting in some good money for a stand. It can very well last you for years to come.

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Why You Are Never Too Old for College (And How To Make It Work)

Today’s jobs require continuous learning. Consider how the current pandemic forced the whole world to switch to remote office work overnight. Suddenly, all in-person meetings went to an online format. Now, many employers are telling their workers to stay home and work remotely After there is a vaccine, perhaps life at the office will return to the way it was. But it is more likely that there will be more flex time, more staggered schedules, and less travel to see clients. All of this requires learning new skills, and college is a fantastic place to learn these skills. If you are old enough to work, you are young enough to go to college. The only thing required is curiosity, an active mind, and the desire to learn. As the world reshapes its ways of working together and industries prepare to adapt, now is a promising time to enter into higher education and become immersed in the incubation of innovative new ideas. Here are some reasons why you are never too old for college.

1. Going to College Keeps You Competitive

Especially in today’s rocky economy, you could find yourself competing with someone 10 or even 20 years younger. Armed with fresh bachelor degrees, your competitors have an edge unless you get your degree, too, or pursue an advanced degree. If you find you are at a dead-end in your career, going back to college can help you acquire the skills you need to switch careers. And, just as you are never too old for college, you are never too old to take up an exciting new career. Advancements in technology, for example, are making some careers obsolete. If you are in a declining industry—which these days spans the gamut from travel agents to postal workers to mortgage brokers—and foresee an inevitable move to automation, you will be better off retraining for a career better aligned for the future.((Work and Money: 25 Dying Professions You Should Avoid)) Now, it is not just people in their late teens and 20s going to college. Today’s college students are in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. Some 40 percent of people obtaining a college degree these days are adults.((Best Degree Programs: 30 Great Degree Programs for Working Adults)) Class cohorts of mixed ages can benefit both young and older students alike. Generational attitudes toward life and opportunities can be shared and perspectives of other generations’ viewpoints will broaden your own. Additionally, when you go on a job interview, you can make the point that you are comfortable working across all generations.

2. Going Back to School as a Bucket List Item

Maybe you got a great job after high school or couldn’t afford to go to college directly after high school. Now, you have decided it is time to earn the degree you have always wanted to pursue. You may be at a crossroads in your current career, ready to take on a new challenge, or looking for more financial stability. Earning a college degree can be a way to fulfill all of these dreams. When you feel that the time has come to take the leap into higher education, be sure to look into degree options and their return on investment .((Salary.com: 8 College Degrees That Will Earn Your Money Back)) Getting a college education can be a time-intensive and pricey proposition, and you will want to make sure the cost and the effort will pay you dividends in the future. Or, if you simply want to augment your knowledge with a few skill-based courses, you are never too old to go to college to hone your expertise. Given how many of today’s careers are rapidly evolving, it is to your credit—and your company’s benefit—that you take initiative in improving your skills to keep up with the economy of the future. Additionally, you are never too old for college classes to expand your interest and your knowledge in an avocation. Several colleges and universities offer not-for-credit courses on an array of topics—from current events to genres of literature to music appreciation and more.

3. Do the Legwork to Make It Work

Know in advance what skills you are after, and research the type of certification you need. Make sure the schools that you are investigating are accredited.((US News: The Best Accredited Online Colleges)) Often, a community college can provide a certificate program that will be all that you need to put your new career goals into motion. Look into the requirements for admission. If it has been decades since you took a college admission test—as in an ACT or SAT—you may need to take one again. Be sure to make use of the online practice tests to help you prepare. But you may also be able to skip this step (some colleges are waving these requirements in light of the current pandemic). You may also need to call up your high school and request that they send a transcript to the colleges to which you are applying. Higher education institutions have several options for pursuing degrees with scheduling flexibility—through online or evening courses, accelerated-track programs, or self-paced programs. And while you are never too old for college, you are too for dorm living. Adult students—often labeled “nontraditional students”—in some cases, may never need to set foot on campus. Depending on the nature of your degree, you could feasibly complete it entirely online. However, if you are interested in the sciences, for example, chances are you will need to complete lab work on campus. Make full use of the institution’s resources and particularly of those serving in the roles of admissions counselors, academic advisors, and financial aid advisors. They offer a well of resources and are there to make your transition into college easier. If the college offers you the option of having a peer mentor, accept the offer. A peer mentor has already navigated the complexities of adjusting to college and can provide you with insider tips. As an adult learner, career advancement may well be your key motivator in going back to school. Be on the lookout for any opportunities that can bolster your resume or expand your business network as you immerse yourself in your program. For example, it may mean that you team with a professor on a research project—and hopefully, add your name among the authors. Or, it could mean presenting a paper at a conference related to your prospective industry. Take on the added work to stand out or make a positive impression. All these stretch projects can help when you ultimately begin looking for employment with your newly minted degree.

How to Hold Down Your Job While Attending College?

If you intend to straddle the demands of both work and school—which is the usual scenario for adults earning a college degree—you will need to do some careful planning. Recognize that as an adult learner it may take you longer to complete some of the assignments. You will have to organize your schedule to find the time to study. First, determine whether you can cut back to part-time work and go to school full-time. If you can make happen, you will be able to finish your degree more quickly. But if you need to maintain a full-time job, find out in advance the minimum course load for enrollment. While part-time enrollment can make your work life more manageable, it may not allow you to be eligible for financial aid. It is best to tell your coworkers and boss that you are going back to school—unless it is your intention to switch careers. This will show them that you have the drive to better yourself. When they know what you are juggling, they may be more understanding when you have to leave work early to take an exam. Some employers have tuition-reimbursement programs to help with paying for the cost. Check with Human Resources to find out if your company offers any reimbursement for attending college.

It Is Never Too Late to Pursue More Education

The attitude that someone could be too old for college is outdated. Fortunately, students attending college in their later years are dispelling these old assertions. Unlike some students in their early 20s, older students know what they are after, and are better focused on attaining it. If you are an older student, it is more likely than not that you are on a mission and no one can dissuade you. You are never too old to create a life you love.

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Why You Are Never Too Old for College (And How To Make It Work)

1. Going to College Keeps You Competitive

2. Going Back to School as a Bucket List Item

3. Do the Legwork to Make It Work

How to Hold Down Your Job While Attending College?

It Is Never Too Late to Pursue More Education

More Tips to Help You Go Back to School

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What Is a Good Credit Score (And How to Get One)

A good credit score can make it a lot easier to borrow money to purchase a home or car, get a credit card, take out a personal or business loan, secure a student loan, and more. There isn’t necessarily a single credit score that’s considered “good,” however. Instead, what constitutes a good credit score depends on the credit scoring model that’s used. We will analyze some of these and discuss how to improve your credit score no matter the model.

Types of Credit Score Models

A few different scoring models are used to calculate your credit score, with the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) score being a popular standard. Understanding the differences and factors used to calculate your score can help you improve your credit score over time.

FICO Credit Score

The FICO score is considered the most reliable credit scoring model because of its long-standing reputation. The model has been around since 1989 and has undergone numerous revisions during that time. Currently, FICO credit scores range from 300 to 850. A good credit score is typically between 670 to 739((Experian: What Is a Good Credit Score?)), according to FICO; however, the required credit score to get approved on a loan or line of credit depends on the lender. One lender might offer its lowest interest rate to borrowers with a score above 730, while another lender might require a score of 760 to get approved.

VantageScore

The VantageScore was created in 2006 and is another widely used scoring model, after FICO. VantageScore is used on credit reports across all three credit bureaus. This algorithm uses traditional data, like number of on-time payments, credit card balances, assets, and other factors to calculate your credit score. The VantageScore 4.0 scale is between 300 to 850, with 700 considered to indicate good credit. This scoring model includes many of the same factors as the FICO score, like past payments and credit utilization, but it weighs each category differently. It also leaves out paid collections and reduces the weight of medical collections, so your score isn’t as dramatically harmed by these marks.

Other Credit Scoring Models

Depending on the purpose of your credit inquiry, other credit scoring models might be used to determine your creditworthiness. For example, insurance companies use their own credit score to assess your plan premiums. Insurance credit scores range from 0-999, using similar scoring factors that are used for FICO, like your outstanding debt, age of credit, types of credit you have, and payment inquiries. These factors may be weighted differently, however, and the scoring model includes other factors that aren’t included in your FICO score, like homeownership.

How to Get a Good FICO Credit Score

There isn't a magic solution to raising your credit score to “good” standing. Even maintaining it at that level or improving your credit to “very good” or “exceptional” takes work. Instead, there are a number of financially responsible steps you can take to ensure your credit score is strong enough to get you the credit that you need. Using the familiar FICO score((myFICO: What's in my FICO Scores?)) to determine what a good credit score is, here are a few tips to improve your credit score.

1. Always Pay Your Loans on Time

Your payment history accounts for 35% of your FICO credit score. Showing that you pay your bills on time instills confidence in lenders that you’re a good credit risk. Set up automatic payments or schedule reminders to ensure you do not miss any of your bill payments.

2. Avoid Getting Too Close to Your Credit Card Limits

“Amounts owed” is one of the five categories FICO looks at when it determines your credit score. This factor accounts for 30% of your credit score. Try to keep your credit card balances low compared to your total credit limit. In fact, it’s best to not carry a credit card balance at all by paying off your credit card statements in full every month. If you must keep a balance on your card, it’s advised to keep your utilization rate (your total credit card balance divided by your total credit limit) below 30%.

3. Establish a Long Credit History

Having a long credit history is a positive mark for your credit score — as long as it’s a good, long history. Credit scores are partially based on your experience with credit cards and other loans — “length of history” makes up 15% of your FICO credit score. One way you might inadvertently harm your length of credit is by closing out a credit card that you’re not using anymore. Remember, the age of your accounts is a big part of your overall credit score. Fight the urge to close your active accounts, if they’re in good standing.

4. Only Apply for Credit When It's Necessary

Yes, having an established credit history is beneficial, but you can negate that goodwill with too much credit access to your name — especially if you’ve opened multiple accounts in a short time. Having a lot of new credit in a short amount of time might suggest that you’re in a bad spot financially, and a high default risk. Plus, every time you apply for a loan or credit card, an inquiry will show up on your credit report, whether you’re approved or not. The inquiry can drop your credit score five points, although this decrease is temporary. Try to keep your credit applications to a minimum and look for prequalification tools that perform a soft credit inquiry so your credit score isn’t adversely impacted.

5. Diversify Your Credit Accounts

Your “credit mix” comprises 10% of your FICO credit score. The more varied your credit mix — such as credit cards, a mortgage, and a car loan — the better your credit score will be, assuming, of course, that you are making all of your loan payments on time. Student loans are another financial obligation that might be included in your credit mix. Even if your credit isn’t at the “good” level yet, you can still apply. For example, federal student loans do not require a credit check. If you’ve maxed out your federal student loans, scholarship and grant options, private student loans can help make up the difference. Bad credit can make it harder to secure a loan, but getting a student loan with bad credit isn’t impossible((Credit Knocks: How To Get Student Loans with Bad Credit)).

6. Review Your Credit Report

Your credit report might have items on it that are pulling your score down. Credit score mistakes can happen because of an error on your credit report. It’s smart to regularly check your credit report for any errors, like a misspelled name, incorrect or old addresses, accounts that don’t belong to you, or adverse events that should have been removed. If you spot anything wrong or suspicious, contact the credit bureaus to dispute the errors. You’re allowed to request a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com. You can request all three reports at once or spread them out throughout the year.

The Bottom Line

Having a “good” (or better) credit score can open a lot of financial doors for you when you need to borrow money. Not only will your chances of approval increase with a stronger score, but you’ll have access to more competitive interest rates. If you continue to make timely payments, keep the amount of money you owe low, and minimize your loan and credit card applications, your credit score will have nowhere to go but up.

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Thursday, June 25, 2020

People Try to Do Right by Each Other—No Matter the Motivation, Says New Scientific Study

This new study from Ohio State University is one of the largest to examine how people are naturally compelled to help others.

The post People Try to Do Right by Each Other—No Matter the Motivation, Says New Scientific Study appeared first on Good News Network.

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Receptor makes mice strong and slim

Increasing abdominal girth and shrinking muscles are two common side effects of aging. Researchers have discovered a receptor in mice that regulates both effects. Experiments with human cell cultures suggest that the corresponding signaling pathways might also exist in humans.

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‘The Dad Gang’ is Celebrating Black Fatherhood and Breaking Stereotypes – From NY to DC

“The Dad Gang” hopes to break the stereotypes of Black fathers by celebrating their involvement in fatherhood on social media and marching in DC.

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Biomedical researchers get closer to why eczema happens

A new study may help to peel back the layers of unhealthy skin -- at least metaphorically speaking -- and get closer to a cure.

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Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease linked to doubling in dementia risk

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is linked to a more than doubling in the risk of developing dementia, finds new research.

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Protein in mitochondria appears to regulate health and longevity

A new study is the first to demonstrate that a tiny protein, humanin, has a big impact on health and longevity in both animals and humans.

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Senior Home in Brazil Creates ‘Hug Tunnel’ So Visitors Can Embrace Their Loved Ones

Três Figueiras senior home in Brazil created a plastic hug tunnel so lonely residents can finally embrace their families, without becoming infected.

The post Senior Home in Brazil Creates ‘Hug Tunnel’ So Visitors Can Embrace Their Loved Ones appeared first on Good News Network.

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Signs of being prone to adult diabetes are already visible at age 8 years old

Early signs of being more susceptible to type 2 diabetes as an adult can be seen in children as young as 8 years old, decades before it is likely to be diagnosed, according to a new study.

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How to Protect Your Mental Health in Tough Times

If you’re not protecting your mental health right now, you’re either struggling or a superhero. Even before the coronavirus pandemic threw a wrench in things, there was plenty to stress about. Concerns about everything from dirty dishes to climate change can affect your mental health. Just remember: You control your mental state. You may not be able to solve all of life’s challenges, but you can keep them from getting to you. Safeguarding your mental health isn’t just about keeping your stress levels in check, either. For yourself and others, it’s critical for a healthy, productive life.

Why Protect Your Mental Health?

You protect your mental health in tough times for the same reason you wear a life preserver when you get in the water: Not only does it keep you afloat, but it ensures you’re able to help others who rely on you. What should you do when the waters get choppy? Strap in. Maintaining your mental health in tough times helps you:

Cultivate Resilience

Resilience is the ability to get back up after you get knocked down. If you let the small things get you down, you’ll struggle to rise to life’s actual challenges. Protecting your mental health ensures you’ll be able to face whatever comes your way.

Stay Productive

When you can’t get something off your mind, it’s practically impossible to do your best work. You know what it’s like: You fidget and stress, but you still can’t seem to focus on the task at hand. A key step in protecting your mental health is being able to let go. You can’t change everything from your desk, so stop worrying about it for the time being.

Create Stability For Others

Who relies on you? Your spouse? Your parents or siblings? Your loved ones worry about you, just like you worry about them. Even if you aren’t financially supporting someone, your stability affects their stability. If your mental health is a mess all the time, it’s going to be tough for them to live their best life. Of course, knowing your mental health matters and actually protecting it are two different things. You need ways to stay strong, no matter what’s happening in your life.

How to Protect Your Mental Health

Protecting your mental health starts with a simple commitment: to separate your internal state from what’s going on around you. Here’s how to do it:

1. Talk it Out

The first and most important step to protecting your mental health? Speaking up. Opening up to friends and family about your mental health challenges isn’t a sign of weakness. In fact, it proves you’re strong enough to show others the not-so-perfect parts of your life. Need an easy way to start the conversation? You could say:

“I want to share something with you.”
“I’ve been thinking about…”
“Can we talk about…?”
“I’ve been struggling with…”

Any one of these will allow an easy in to a conversation you need to have.

2. Shrink Your Screen Time

Tempting as it is right now, spending hours each day on social media isn’t good for your mental health. At best, you’ll distract yourself from what matters; at worst, you’ll internalize all the bad news and anger online. Young people are particularly prone to this, but they’re not alone. A friend of mine got her daughter a Gabb phone, which is a safe phone for kids((Gabb Wireless: 5 Ways to Regain Control Over Screen Time)) that helps limit screen time. After I got my niece one, it made me think about how much I need to limit my own screen time. I haven’t swapped out my smartphone, but I have put boundaries on how I use it. I limit myself to two hours of surfing per day, with a hard stop at 9 p.m. I don’t touch it again until I leave for work in the morning. Consider doing something similar to get yourself away from your screen.

3. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

Another lesson I’ve learned about maintaining my mental health? Avoiding drugs and alcohol is key. A few years ago, I got in the habit of pouring myself a glass of wine after a long day. It sure helped me unwind from the stresses of work, so I figured it was worth the health risks. What nobody told me, though, is that alcohol makes anxiety worse. A few hours after having a drink, I noticed I’d get stressed out. Cutting back helped me get back to my normal self.

4. Don’t Neglect Your Diet

Have you ever heard medical experts call your gut “your second brain”? The reason is that the gastrointestinal tract has more nerve endings than anywhere in the body apart from the brain. Every bite you take affects those gut nerves. Nutritious foods — the fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean meats your mother likes to talk about — nurture it, while unhealthy ones upset it. Cook meals at home whenever you can, and keep an eye on your snack intake. Even if you’re eating salmon and broccoli for dinner, binging on processed snacks at night could be messing with your mental health.

5. Stay Active

Your physical and mental health are more connected than you might realize. Regular exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety as effectively, in some cases, as medication((National Institutes of Health: Exercise for Mental Health)). What type of exercise is best for mental health? Opt for cardio, but realize that anything is better than nothing. Whether you like to swim, run, row, or lift, get some fresh blood to your brain. Don’t let your current fitness level be a barrier. When I was looking at new ways to exercise, I was looking at what a lot of busy entrepreneurs do to work out. I randomly came upon a site where Mark Cuban got a new e-bike and figured I would try one out. Within a few weeks, I was cruising for miles while listening to my favorite podcasts. It's become one of my favorite times to learn while staying active.

6. Give Yourself a Break

Although perseverance is admirable, you have to cut yourself some slack when times get tough. Taking breaks is critical if you want to keep going for the long term. Because I struggle to take breaks, I use the Pomodoro Method: I buckle down for 25 minutes, after which I give myself a five-minute break. There’s no right or wrong approach, but you do need a system. How should you spend your breaks? Do something that rejuvenates you, such as:

Reading a book
Calling up a friend
Taking a bath or shower
Taking a nap
Going for a walk

7. Get Outdoors

Speaking of going for a walk, there’s no better way to get some headspace than to get outside. There’s just something about the smell of fresh air and the feeling of sun on your skin that melts stress. Pair this tactic with others in this list. For outdoor exercise, you could go for a run around the neighborhood. Leave your phone inside, or stow it in your pocket while you’re enjoying time outside. Although the outdoors can be a great break from work, it’s also a great place to work remotely. Most managers won’t mind you knocking out proposals from a picnic table.

8. Lose Yourself in a Hobby

Sometimes, an hour in the sun isn’t enough to take your mind off what’s bothering you. In that case, try diving into your favorite hobby. Practicing a hobby helps you get into a “flow” state, which is when you’re so focused on what you’re doing that you lose track of the world around you. That mental break can be just what you need to get some perspective. As with exercise, what the hobby is isn’t as important as your ability to stick with it. If you don’t have much time or money to spend, good options include:

Drawing
Hiking
Reading
Dancing
Cooking
Gardening
Knitting
Writing

9. Ask for Help

In rare cases, you might not be able to protect your mental health alone. If you’re feeling outgunned, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Although they mean well, your family and friends simply can’t provide the level of support a mental health expert can. Remember, there are resources out there to help you get through tough times. Talk to your doctor, or reach out to one of the following helplines:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: 800-662-4357
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline: 800-950-6264

The Bottom Line

Whatever you’re going through, remember: Your mental health matters. Whether you're weathering a pandemic or just trying to organize your day, protecting your mental health is imperative in order to stay productive and happy. Make time for yourself and do what you have to in order to conquer stress.

More Tips for Mental Strength

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What Are The Top 7 Priorities To Have In Life?

Do you try to complete all your tasks each day because you feel every item on your to-do list is highly important? Are you limited by time to achieve all of those tasks? If your answer is yes, then you might not have a clear list of priorities in your life. It takes having a clear list of priorities to effectively manage your time and know what counts while advancing in the direction of your goals. You might eventually stress yourself out if you continually take on too many tasks. Remember, your goal is a target you want to meet in the future. Priorities are those things you need to establish and focus on to meet that target. Once you have a list of priorities, you'll stand a better chance of implementing changes and decisions that align with your life mission. Everyone is different, and everyone will care about different things. However, some common threads connect us all. You may not find that every item on this list of priorities resonates with you, but it's likely that at least a few of them will. If you're not clear on your priorities, these may help you identify where you should put your thoughts and energy.

1. Your Life Mission

Your life missions are priorities that give you meaning and happiness. These are what make you live beyond being successful, but also work on something significant in life. What do you want from life? When you prioritize those things without compromising your commitment to them, you will always end up achieving your goals. Define your mission statement and identify things you need to do to accomplish your purpose in life. Once you have established what your life missions are, organize your tasks, and make every item on your to-do list express those missions. If an item does not align with your purpose in life, refuse to work on it. If you want to lose weight, go ahead. If your life mission requires oratory skills, commit yourself to practicing that. The bottom line is that your to-do list should be an expression of your personal and professional goals.

2. Physical Health

Your health is highly crucial and should be first on your list of priorities. It determines your prosperity, comfort, and overall attitude.((WHO: Noncommunicable diseases)) Bad health robs you of happiness and reduces your overall productivity. This is why you need to break the cycle of poor health. Here's why your physical well-being should be on your list of priorities:

You can only be more productive and focused when you are healthy.
Your quality of sleep will improve.
You will be in a better mood when interacting with other people.
You will be more energetic to accomplish your life mission.
You will have good self-esteem. Sickness robs you of confidence.

Do these to improve your health: Eat a balanced diet, develop a solid exercise routine, and don’t skip sleep.

3. Quality Time With Family

When you are having a bad time at work, the first pillar of support is always your family. Time spent with family enhances your self-esteem, promotes positive habits, and builds memories. Prioritize spending time with your immediate family, and make that time count. Exercise or work out together, go for a walk after dinner, select a book to read together, cook, or have a meal together. Prioritize togetherness! You can be successful at work and still enjoy quality time with your family. It's important to recover the sense of a unified self in dismantling your work-life binary. Therefore, avoid sacrificing your family while you pursue success in your business or work.

4. Healthy Relationships

Relationships are important in finding meaning and purpose in life. After your family, your friends, colleagues, or members of your community play significant roles in your life beyond what you can imagine. According to Northwestern Medicine((NorthWesternMedicine: 5 Benefits of Healthy Relationships)), prioritizing healthy relationships can reduce the production of the stress hormone cortisol responsible for stress. A study discovered that married people are not as likely to experience psychological stress. This is because the emotional and social support that relationships offer can be an excellent cure for stress((Marripedia: Effects of Marriage on Mental Health)). Furthermore, healthy relationships help you build healthy habits. Accountability partners, mentors, life coaches, and teachers play crucial roles in achieving your goals. Therefore, surround yourself with people that will inspire you daily and isolate yourself from toxic relationships.

5. Mental Health

Are you always busy with work, social commitments, studies, family, and daily activities? If yes, then you need to prioritize your mental health. Establish a routine to investigate how you feel when you are busy or overworking. Try doing the following to keep yourself in check.

Perform a Mental Audit

Take note of what you feel, think, or say and how they impact your mood, either positively or negatively.

Identify Red Flags

Red flags are warning signals that indicate when you are experiencing a shift in your thoughts, feelings, and habits. They could also warn you when you are experiencing burnout or stress. The earlier you know what's wrong with you and develop coping strategies to resolve the issues, the faster and easier it will be to get back on track.

Figure out Your Trigger

If you notice some tasks, events, habits, or experiences impact your mental well-being, such as health issues, increased workloads, or relationship challenges, practice self-care during those periods. Self-care is not selfish. It helps you to regain your balance so you can take on more tasks.

6. Finances

Money is not insignificant. While it may not buy happiness, you need to earn at least above what you need to stay happy. Life can be miserable when you're struggling to pay the bills or feed yourself, so prioritize your finances! Robert Kiyosaki, in his book Cashflow Quadrant, recommends:

"Make money work for you rather than working all your life for money."((Robert Kiyosaki: Cashflow Quadrant))

Robert is simply advising you to work on your savings and investment goals. So how do you prioritize and improve your finances? Figure out your income-generating assets and income-depleting liabilities. Then, increase your assets and reduce your liabilities. Also, save as much as possible to make your life more comfortable in the future. You can also invest your savings in any low-risk project that can earn you passive income in both the short-term and long-term. Lastly, avoid debt as much as you can and save for emergencies.

7. Self-Improvement

In the words of Lou Holtz, "You are either growing or dying"((BrainyQuotes: Lou Holtz Quotes)). You can only become the person of your dreams by shunning mediocrity and complacency. There are simple ways to improve yourself. You can watch TED Talks that can impact your life positively, read personal development books, or learn new skills. It's not even a bad idea to learn something outside your field. Learning sustains living! Follow these steps to create a self-improvement plan that works for you.

1. Define Your Goals

Define your goals (general list) and become more specific by breaking up your general list into specific items: lose 20 pounds, earn a certificate, train for a new role, etc. You can read more on how to set SMART GOALS.

2. Focus on Your Strengths

Highlight your strengths and what you lack to accomplish the specific goals. Then define why you want to see them become reality. How will they benefit you?

3. Visualize

Visualize yourself achieving your goals. You can design a vision board to enable you to see what success will look like. It may include pictures of a healthier and happier you!

4. Lay Out Your Plan

Establish your game plan. How will you get there? What will it require? Learning a new skill? Subscribing to an online course? You need to define those actionable steps you need to take to improve. Don't forget to set small milestones as you proceed so you can reward yourself when you achieve little successes.

Conclusion

If by now you are not sure of what your top priorities are, you might need to sit down and list everything important to you. For instance, if you are burnt out and it's taking a toll on your health, then you will need to prioritize your health. There's no way you can focus and be productive if you are not healthy. The next step is to establish a game plan. For instance, you can highlight what you can do to avoid burnout. It could be mindfulness, talking to a psychologist, or taking a break from work. Then, block out time to implement your game plan. Finally, take a self-assessment test to know if you are on track. If you need help with evaluating your progress, you can talk to your accountability partner, spouse, colleague, or mentor. I will round off with the words of Brandon Sanderson, a successful American fiction writer and the brain behind Cosmere Universe:((WiseOldSaying: Brandon Sanderson Sayings and Quotes ))

"The mark of a great man is one who knows when to set aside the important things to accomplish the vital ones."

More Tips About Setting Priorities in Life

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What Are The Top 7 Priorities To Have In Life?

1. Your Life Mission

2. Physical Health

You can only be more productive and focused when you are healthy.
Your quality of sleep will improve.
You will be in a better mood when interacting with other people.
You will be more energetic to accomplish your life mission.
You will have good self-esteem. Sickness robs you of confidence.

Do these to improve your health: Eat a balanced diet, develop a solid exercise routine, and don’t skip sleep.

3. Quality Time With Family

4. Healthy Relationships

5. Mental Health

Perform a Mental Audit

Take note of what you feel, think, or say and how they impact your mood, either positively or negatively.

Identify Red Flags

Figure out Your Trigger

6. Finances

"Make money work for you rather than working all your life for money."((Robert Kiyosaki: Cashflow Quadrant))

7. Self-Improvement

1. Define Your Goals

2. Focus on Your Strengths

Highlight your strengths and what you lack to accomplish the specific goals. Then define why you want to see them become reality. How will they benefit you?

3. Visualize

Visualize yourself achieving your goals. You can design a vision board to enable you to see what success will look like. It may include pictures of a healthier and happier you!

4. Lay Out Your Plan

Conclusion

"The mark of a great man is one who knows when to set aside the important things to accomplish the vital ones."

More Tips About Setting Priorities in Life

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How to Be a Successful And Happy Stay at Home Mom

I can't think of a more rewarding job, nor a more challenging one than being a Stay-at-Home-Mom (SAHM)! There is no shortage of opinion, however, as to the pros and cons of going on active duty until your kid/s turns 18 and flies off to college. When you choose a career such as this, you're in it for the long haul. But by the end of your journey, you'll be decorated with every possible medal of honor. And may I say, indisputably deserved. Think about it: a SAHM is a queen. She has one of the most important jobs of all—managing the castle, all that it entails, and its inhabitants. For most of you, your home is your castle. It is where your most valuable possessions reside—your loved ones, your pets, your memories, and the special items you've collected over the years. It is where you feel comfortable, uninhibited, and free to be yourself. It is where you dine, sleep, and relax. It is everything! Being the queen of your castle is like being the president. What other position carries as much clout other than being the president? Taking care of that castle and its occupants is no easy task; it is a highly-ranked position that deserves every available merit. Yes, staying at home can be a big decision, especially if you have a career and have been used to praise, socialization, and a regular paycheck. You might even think that if you decide to stay home, it is a "step down," a demotion of sorts. But nothing could be further from the truth.

Why Being a Stay-at-Home Mom Is an Important Career

Being a SAHM requires wearing a litany of hats. You're a full-time babysitter, a Lyft driver without tips or 5-star ratings, a nurse, a chef, a behavioral therapist, and most importantly, a teacher. Teachable moments abound. You get to teach your children all the important things you want them to learn. Sure, there are no days off or summer vacations in store for decades, depending on the age of your little one/s, but imagine what amazing human beings you are helping to create! Being stellar SAHMs are big shoes to fill. Not just anyone is up to the task; not everyone has the patience or the stamina it requires. Think triathlon here, but more—much more. To put it simply, being a SAHM is one of the most important careers in the world. Let's take a look at why this is so.

1. Your Child Is Always With Someone Who Loves Them

When your children are home with you, they are loved 24/7. They are happy and comforted. In a daycare facility, the most important person in your life will be with someone who is just doing their job. They're there for the paycheck, not because they love your child. As you know, there are good and bad employees. You won't necessarily know if your child is with a great employee or with one who is half paying attention to one of the most highly-treasured people in your life.

2. You Don't Have to Deal With Office Stress and Deadlines

Working outside of your castle generally demands that you be present wherever it is you work—a hospital, a warehouse, a car dealership, an office, etc.,—when they want you to be there. There are petty fights, nasty gossip, stressful projects, bad bosses, jealous co-workers, etc. You might often find yourself looking at the clock and waiting for the weekend. If you're a SAHM, you make the rules! That alone should cause you great joy.

3. You Get to Witness Each of Your Child's Milestones Firsthand

Think about how many milestones working moms miss. As a SAHM, you get to be there. You get to take those pictures, those videos, and see your little one grow up—in person, not via Nanny Cam! And if you're children are middle-school-age and older, you get to keep an eye on them when they get home from school. In an article in the American Journal of Nursing Science, it states that:((Science Publishing Group: The Effects and Behaviours of Home Alone Situation by Latchkey Children))

"Economic and social pressures are forcing more parents into the workplace at a time when children appear to most need adult guidance and supervision. These children, in turn, face a growing number of problems such as physical and sexual abuse, crime and delinquency, depression and suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, emotional and behavioral problems, learning difficulties, school attendance problems, domestic violence, pregnancy, abortion, and venereal disease. Many "latchkey" children experience stressful and even dangerous situations without ready access to adult guidance and support. It is estimated that as many as 10 million children care for themselves before or after school. Many latchkey kids begin their self-care responsibilities at about 8 years of age."

4. Your Child Gets to Grow Up in Their Castle With a Queen Who Loves Them

When you're home with your child, you provide love and comfort. That makes for a happy child and eventually, a happy adult. True, some adults were raised with their queen and don't fare well, but in those rare cases, there are other factors involved, too numerous to list here. In general, children do better when they know they are loved and cared for. And for children, the presence that would create stability and warm-fuzzy feelings is Mom!

5. Your Child Will Grow Up Feeling Happy, Safe, and Secure

Personally, I grew up with a SAHM. My mom was always around. We knew we could count on her for anything. She'd keep the house clean, cook great meals, and take us swimming in the summers. I have very happy memories. I always felt secure and loved. And when my dad would get home after work, the family was complete. Fun times! If you are a good, caring mom, the best gift you can give your children is YOU! Creating happy children is one of the biggest successes you can experience.

6. Your Child's School Performance Will Improve

Research shows that there are excellent benefits to children staying at home, such as an increase in school performance. Those benefits extend way beyond the early years of that child's life. Did you know that homeschoolers generally score 15 to 30% points above public school students on a standardized test? In the article, Does Being a Stay at Home Home Benefit Your Kids?, it states:((HowStuffWorks: Does Being a Stay at Home Mom Benefit Your Kids?))

"A British study in the 'Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health' reported that children of stay-at home-mothers are more likely to participate in organized sports than those whose mothers worked, possibly because their mothers had more time to take them to sports practices. Other studies have found that children of stay-at-home moms were exposed to fewer germs and suffered from fewer illnesses. In addition, stay-at-home moms can have more time to prepare healthier foods and they rely less on convenience foods, partially for financial reasons."

It's Normal to Feel Iffy at First

Even after having read the six above-mentioned amazing reasons to stay at home, you might still feel iffy about it. Not because you don't love your children but because you feel you will lose yourself—your identity. It's understandable to feel that way. Shifting your perspective is key here. Staying at home doesn't have to go hand-in-hand with losing your identity. You simply add to it; it's another layer, another facet of who you are. In the beginning, you may need to make some adjustments, but isn't life, in general, an adjustment? Things are happening every day that oblige us to change course and go with the flow.

How to Be a Successful Stay-at-Home Mom

If you decide, that yes, you are going to stay home with your child but aren't sure how to navigate the new waters without completely losing yourself, allow me to offer you some ideas that will make your experience an exceptionally happy one. By following through with the suggestions below, you will feel successful, happy, and ready to tackle anything that comes your way. Here are some tips on how to be a successful stay-at-home mom:

1. Wake Up Early!

Some SAHMs complain that they don't have enough time for themselves. Valid point. Try getting up early, before the kids do.((The Intentional Mom: Why You Want to Get Up Before Your Kids (and how to do it!))) This is the first thing that you should keep in mind if you want to be a successful stay-at-home mom. Being up before everyone else offers you alone time to get some personal things done. The house is quiet and peaceful—the perfect setting to do what you need to do. That could be taking an uninterrupted warm shower, reading passages from your favorite book, having a cup of coffee while streaming one of your favorite shows or movies, writing emails, etc. Waking up early offers you many opportunities to do what you need to do so that you don't feel as though you're missing out.

2. Dress Up!

No, I don't mean dress up like you're going out dancing, but you don't have to be in your pajamas or sweats all day, either. How you dress makes a difference in your mood—on how you feel. So, dress casually but nicely. In an article by Corina, How to be a Stylish Stay at Home Mom Without Compromising Comfort, she writes, "You don’t need a ton of clothes! Stick with what fits you well and makes you feel pretty without much fuss."((Corina Holden: How to be a Stylish Stay at Home Mom Without Compromising Comfort)) You can be at home and still dress to impress. You will feel so much better about yourself.

3. Exercise and Have Fun With Your Kids!

Taking care of your little ones doesn't mean you give up on yourself. Take some time during the day to exercise. It will keep you strong, toned, and happy. Have the children join you, and make it amusing by playing some fun workout music. They'll use up a lot of energy and enjoy the time with you simultaneously. Here's an example of a mom who's having a lot of fun with her kids as well as entertaining her audience. Watch Sophie Ellis-Bextor on YouTube.((YouTube: A Spoonful of Sugar - Sophie Ellis-Bextor (Live on Instagram, 22/5/20))) What a fun thing to do with your kids!

4. Schedule Weekly Outings!

To add excitement to your week, plan a weekly outing to the zoo, the botanical gardens, the library, the park, etc. Of course, at this point, the outings depend on personal safety and each state's guidelines, so you'll have to check on that. But bike rides around the neighborhood and picnics will work just as well. If it's too difficult to get out for whatever reason, there are many fun things you can do at home, pandemic or not. You can schedule a Stay At Home FUN DAY! Making a fun environment for your children is important in being a successful stay-at-home mom. In an article by Andrea Browne Taylor, 16 Free or Cheap Things to Do With Your Kids During the COVID-19 Pandemic, she lists many activities to do with your kids.((Kiplinger: 16 Free or Cheap Things to Do With Your Kids During the COVID-19 Pandemic)) Even I want to do these!

5. Establish a Break

During the day, it's important to set aside some time to do something quiet; perhaps set aside 20-30 minutes to read, color, etc. During this break, each person can do something they personally enjoy. Encourage your kids to get creative. Research shows that creative activities, such as art, are wonderful for children. In her article, Why Art and Creativity are Important, Paula Bernstein states,((Parents: Why Art and Creativity Are Important))

"Fostering creativity won't just increase your child's chances of becoming the next Picasso. You're also helping him develop mentally, socially, and emotionally, says Ecklund-Flores."

And for you, pick up that hobby you put on the back burner. Whether it is painting, crocheting, knitting, writing, whatever, use that time to get some creative YOU time in! You are going to feel so much happier and accomplished afterward.

6. Make Your Castle a Beautiful Living Space!

Decorate your home in a way that is soothing to you. Choose the colors, the decor, the furniture, the pictures, the artwork, the plants, etc. that make you feel at peace in your own castle. Play music that is both calming and energizing. Living in a space you love and find comforting makes all the difference in the world. If you create a happy environment, you'll feel happier, and so will your children. For ways to make your home a happier place, check out Olivia Heath's article, 8 ways to make your home a happier place.((House Beautiful: 8 ways to make your home a happier place))

7. Set Up a Routine!

Most people respond well to a routine. For instance, from 8 - 9, breakfast and cartoons; from 9 - 12. chores and homework; from 12 - 1:00 p.m., lunch. After that, nap time, if appropriate, or personal time. The routine, of course, will be based on the age of your children and your own personal views. According to a Skilled at Life article: Setting up a routine "creates structure in our lives. a daily routine provides structure and a logical sequence in our lives. It provides the framework within which we live our lives and conduct our daily activities. Soon we become familiar and comfortable with what we have to do each day. It allows us to experience a flow to our day."((Skilled at Life: 18 Reasons Why a Daily Routine Is So Important)) As a SAHM, you'll benefit from the routine and take comfort in knowing what to expect. This is the time for you to incorporate anything into your daily routine that makes you feel relaxed, happy, and stress-free.

8. Meet Up With Other SAHMs

Meeting up with other SAHMs will provide you with support. Additionally, the kids get to socialize with other children and you with other like-minded moms. Not working outside the home sometimes can feel isolating, so talking to other adults is a nice treat. Below, I included a link to help you find just the group for you! Check it out.

9. Hire a Babysitter!

Sometimes you might like to go out with friends, get pampered at a spa, or what-have-you. A babysitter or a trusted family member can help with that. These little breaks can be the fuel you need to keep going. It's like getting a mini-vacation. It's revitalizing. Once you get home from your spa treatment or the movie you saw with your friends, you will have renewed energy. You can now refocus on your castle tasks. And remember, a happy mom, makes for a happy child!

Final Thoughts

As a SAHM, you might make the mistake of thinking that if you don't bring home a paycheck, you're not valuable or helping with the household expenses. You're actually helping more than you think. You don't need a paycheck to add value to who you are. You are already one of the most valued members of society. You're watching over human lives—your children—making sure they are safe, healthy, and happy. And as far as expenses go, you will be saving on daycare costs and transportation expenses. If after reading all these amazing things about being a SAHM, you're still conflicted, don't be too hard on yourself. It's not for everyone. As I mentioned above, staying at home can be challenging. And in all honesty, it can have its drawbacks. That's also why I provided you here some tips on how to be a successful stay-at-home mom. For example, being at home with your children all the time can make you feel a little depressed or bored. You might not feel like you're being stimulated by life or adult-like situations. Maybe some of the hobbies you used to enjoy get neglected, or you might feel financially dependent on your husband. Furthermore, you might think you'll lose all your abilities; the opportunity to utilize the educational training you received. Or maybe you miss the ritual of getting dressed, driving to work, and being around other people who are doing similar things. That's all valid. Only you can make that decision. While you're thinking about it, though, let me remind you that as a SAHM you will be missing some things. But you'll be gaining so much more. Doing a presentation at work may get you kudos and accolades, but hearing the words, "I love you, mommy" is priceless. Watching your children grow up before your very eyes? Priceless. Making sure they're safe and sound with you loving them all day? Priceless. There is no other job in the world with those kinds of benefits. As a SAHM, you are the heart and soul of your castle. Remember, too, that your children will grow up. You won't have to wait until you're 65 to retire. And although your job as Mom will never be done, you'll be able to do many things that you didn't get to do while on active duty. When you are "done," you will have the satisfaction of having accomplished an amazing feat. You can feel proud because success like that isn't easy to come by. The title of Stay-at-Home-Mom, despite what any group might say, is a powerful and inspiring one. Are you up to the challenge? Want to know more about being a successful stay-at-home mom and its benefits? Check these out:

Eric Bettinger: Why Stay-at-Home-Moms are Good for Older Children by Edmund L. Andrews
20 Fun Family Activities to Do At Home by Cynthia Hochswender
Find your group: 10 mom groups that are totally amazing by Regina Koller

More Tips for Stay-at-Home Moms

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