ReportWire

Tag: Holidays

  • Tourism is roaring back in China. But the $6 trillion consumer market is digging itself out of a deep slump

    Tourism is roaring back in China. But the $6 trillion consumer market is digging itself out of a deep slump

    [ad_1]

    BEIJING — China’s consumption recovery from zero-Covid is getting off to a solid start – after a depressing fourth quarter.

    When Michelin-starred restaurant Rêver reopened Thursday from a Lunar New Year break, it was fully booked, said Edward Suen, chief operating officer of the Guangzhou venue. Reservations for the next three days were near capacity, he said.

    He’s hopeful business improves this year – and allows Rêver to recoup the roughly 35% in revenue it lost last year. Guangzhou city was one of the hardest hit by China’s Covid controls in late 2022, before Beijing abruptly ended most measures in early December and a wave of infections hit the country.

    “Last Christmas, it was the first time in three years we didn’t run a full house, because quite a lot of people made reservations but then they got infected,” Suen said. He co-founded Rêver in June 2020.

    In a down-to-earth Chinese city known worldwide for its Cantonese cuisine, Rêver is exploring a new market by serving modern French cuisine, with a multi-course dinner priced at 1,280 yuan ($183) or 1,680 yuan.

    For the year ahead, “we try to be a little bit conservative on how things go,” Suen said. “Because everything’s changed so fast and so sudden in these days.”

    In 2022, China saw one of its slowest years of economic growth in decades. Within a retail sales slump of 0.2% to 43.97 trillion yuan ($6.28 trillion), catering sales dropped by a steeper 6.3%.

    More recent data show Chinese consumers are starting to open their wallets again, especially for travel.

    During the seven-day Lunar New Year holiday that ended Friday, national tourism revenue surged by 30% from last year to 375.84 billion yuan, according to official figures. But that was still short of 2019 spending.

    “Consumer sentiment is better. Spending power is kind of back,” Ashley Dudarenok, founder of China digital consultancy ChoZan, said Friday. “But I don’t think that suddenly from one month to the next things are back … to 2019 or double 2019.”

    Dudarenok said that heading into 2023 and the Lunar New Year, some smaller brands had turned more conservative on China and cut their marketing budgets for the country in half.

    “Consumer sentiment was really down, nobody knew what was actually coming, and a lot of marketing budget and dollars went into 11.11 [Singles Day] and it was also not successful, so brands did not earn a lot over 11.11” and another shopping festival in December, she said. “Then suddenly China opened. Many people did not expect that [and were] quite startled by this swift development.”

    Dudarenok does expect overall consumer trends to continue, whether it’s people in larger cities spending more “on feeling better” or people in smaller cities paying for higher-quality products.

    Read more about China from CNBC Pro

    Many analysts expect high levels of savings among Chinese consumers during the pandemic will translate to greater spending this year.

    At the policymaker level, Chinese authorities say they’re prioritizing consumption. Premier Li Keqiang led the first post-holiday executive meeting of the State Council on Saturday, and “called for efforts to expedite consumption recovery and keep foreign trade and investment stable,” according to a readout. The meeting said policies to promote the consumption of cars and other big-ticket items would be “fully implemented.”

    However, unlike the U.S., China has not distributed cash to consumers nationwide in the wake of the pandemic. Li told reporters in 2022 that policymakers would instead focus on supporting businesses and jobs.

    “We believe that the most important factor influencing the consumption is the outlook on future income which ties to many factors,” Hao Zhou, chief economist at Guotai Junan International, said in a note. “That being said, the reduced policy and virus uncertainties will definitely help improve the sentiment.”

    He expects 7% year-on-year growth in retail sales.

    Hainan’s recovery plans

    Hainan, a tropical province aiming to be a duty free shopping destination, announced a goal for 10% growth in retail sales this year. That’s after its retail sales fell by 9.2% last year.

    The island’s 12 duty-free stores saw gross sales of 2.57 billion yuan during the Lunar New Year holiday week, according to the local commerce department.

    Those holiday sales were more than four times what they were in 2019, the release said, reflecting the region’s growth and new mall openings over the last few years.

    LVMH and Coach-parent Tapestry both signed deals in 2022 with local authorities to expand their business in Hainan, including the establishment of Tapestry’s China travel retail headquarters, according to government announcements. The two companies did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment.

    Top executives from U.S. and European brands, among others, plan to visit Hainan this year now that Covid restrictions are relaxed, said Ruslan Tulenov, global media officer for Hainan’s Bureau of International Economic Development. He declined to say how many or when.

    “Before I personally I had some few discussions with some top companies last year or two years ago, but at that time [there were] some Covid restrictions, difficulties coming to China,” he said. “Some companies, they even would like to take their private jets to fly to Hainan directly, but at that time there were some Covid restrictions.”

    New trends, changing fast

    Brands in China have to adjust to changes not only in the Covid situation but also in the market.

    Companies are moving more marketing dollars to ByteDance’s Douyin, the local version of TikTok, and away from Weibo, Dudarenok said.

    While those brands were on Douyin for years, they were not part of the social conversation on the highly popular app, she said. For brands, she said the thinking now is that “China has changed, most important China has opened, and to get into that business we need to be part of that conversation.”

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Travel companies are ‘greenwashing’ — here are 3 ways to find ones that aren’t

    Travel companies are ‘greenwashing’ — here are 3 ways to find ones that aren’t

    [ad_1]

    People said the pandemic made them want to travel more responsibly in the future.

    Now new data indicates they’re actually doing it.

    According to a report published in January by the World Travel & Tourism Council and Trip.com Group:

    • Nearly 60% of travelers have chosen more sustainable travel options in the last couple of years.
    • Nearly 70% are actively seeking sustainable travel options.

    But finding companies that are serious about sustainability isn’t easy, said James Thornton, CEO of tour company Intrepid Travel.  

    “You see hotels saying they’re sustainable, and then you’re using these little travel bottles for shampoos and shower gels,” he said.

    It’s all just “greenwashing,” he said, referencing the term that describes companies’ efforts to appear more environmentally sound than they are.

    For a company to say they’re “100% sustainable” or they’re “eco-conscious” …  doesn’t mean anything.

    James Thornton

    CEO, Intrepid Travel

    The term has risen in popularity alongside the increase in demand for sustainable products and services.

    The result is a mix of those who are truly dedicated to the cause — and those who sprinkle eco-buzzwords and photographs of seedlings, forests and other “green” imagery in their marketing materials, with no real action to back up their claims.

    Finding companies that are sustainable

    Be wary of these tactics, said Thornton.

    “For a company to say they’re ‘100% sustainable’ or they’re ‘eco-conscious’ …  doesn’t mean anything,” he said. “I would urge travelers to be very cautious when they’re seeing these words, and to really dig in and look in a bit more detail.”

    Consumer interest in sustainable travel has changed considerably in the past two decades, said Thornton. He said when he joined Intrepid travel 18 years ago, “people would look at us like we’re a bit crazy” when the company talked about sustainability.

    Now, many companies are doing it, whether they are serious, or not.

    Thornton said he believes the travel industry is currently divided into three categories. One third have “incredibly good intentions, and [are] working very actively on addressing the climate crisis … and they’re making good progress.”

    Another third have “good intentions but [aren’t] actually taking action yet. And often … they’re not quite sure how to take action.”

    The final third “is just utterly burying its head in the sand and hoping that this thing is going to go away, and the truth of the matter is — it isn’t.”

    To identify companies in the first category, Thornton recommends travelers look for three critical things.  

    1. A history of sustainability

    To ascertain whether a company may be jumping on the eco-bandwagon, examine its history, said Thornton.

    He advises looking for “a long history of association with issues of sustainability, or is this something that only just appeared?”

    Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton.

    Source: Intrepid Travel

    If the messaging is new for the company, that’s not a deal breaker, he said.

    “But that would then encourage the customer to probably want to look in a bit more detail to see if what a company actually does has rigor behind it,” he said, “Or whether it’s something that’s just being done for marketing sake — and therefore greenwashing.”

    2. Check for measurements

    Next, travelers should see if the company measures its greenhouse gas emissions, said Thornton.

    “The honest truth is that every travel company is ultimately contributing towards the climate crisis,” he said. “So the best thing any travel company can start to do is measure the greenhouse gas emissions it creates.”

    To do this, Thornton advised travelers to check the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

    “The Glasgow Declaration website lists the organizations that have agreed to actively reduce their emissions … and actually have a climate plan that shows how they’re doing that,” he said.

    Signatories must publish their climate plan, which is monitored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, he said.

    “Consumers can use this as a way to check if the company they’re booking with is serious about decarbonization,” he said, adding that more than 700 organizations are on the list.

    Thornton said travelers can also check the Science Based Targets Initiative, which is a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute and the World Wide Fund for Nature.

    Its website has a dashboard that details emission-reducing commitments made by more than 4,500 companies worldwide, including American Express Global Business Travel, the United Kingdom’s Reed & Mackay Travel and Australia’s Flight Centre Travel Group.

    3. Look for certifications

    Finally, travelers can check for independent accreditations, said Thornton.

    One of the most rigorous and impressive is the B Corp Certification, he said.

    “It took Intrepid three years to become a B Corp,” he said.

    Other companies with B Corp status include Seventh Generation, Ben & Jerry’s, Aesop — and Patagonia, which Thornton called “arguably the most famous B Corp in the world.”

    To get it, companies are reviewed by the non-profit B Lab and a certification lasts for three years, said Thornton.

    Kristen Graff, director of sales and marketing at Indonesia’s Bawah Reserve resort, agreed that B Corp is the “most widely respected” certification.

    “The other one is the Global Sustainable Tourism Council,” she said. “These actually do an audit and are legit.”

    Bawah Reserve, a resort in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands, is applying for B Corp certification. The resort uses solar power and desalinates drinking water on the island.

    Source: Bawah Reserve

    Other travel eco-certifications are less exacting, said Graff.

    “Many of them are just a racket to make money,” she said.

    Bawah Reserve started the process to become B Corp certified in November of 2022, said Graff. “We anticipate it will take about a year to complete,” she said.

    B Corp uses a sliding scale for its certifications fees, which start at $1,000 for companies with less than $1 million in annual revenue.

    “The cost is fairly minimal,” said Thornton, especially “if you’re serious about sustainability.”

    He said Intrepid pays about $25,000 a year for the certification.

    Other advice

    Thornton also advised travelers to ask questions like:

    • Are you using renewable energy sources?
    • Is the food locally sourced?
    • Are employees from local communities?
    • Who owns the hotel?

    He said there are places that are perceived to be sustainable but that are “actually owned by a casino.”

    Lastly, Thornton recommends travelers look to online reviews.

    “Often a little bit of research on Google … can give you a really good indication around whether a hotel or a travel experience is doing what it says it’s doing — or whether they’re actually greenwashing.”

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Nation’s Single Friends Announce Plans To Just Sort Of Stand There While Couples Kiss On New Year’s Eve

    Nation’s Single Friends Announce Plans To Just Sort Of Stand There While Couples Kiss On New Year’s Eve

    [ad_1]

    Read more…

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Bringing a dog along for a holiday stay? Make sure to plan

    Bringing a dog along for a holiday stay? Make sure to plan

    [ad_1]

    NEW YORK (AP) — Traveling with dogs can be stressful. Throw in holiday home stays at one of the most chaotic times of the year and double that stress for humans and animals alike — especially when hosts have pets of their own.

    Large gatherings, unfamiliar smells and sounds, mixing older or sedate dogs with energetic pups, and introducing small children or cats to a dog with no prior exposure are among the issues that can spoil the experience or, worst case, cause physical harm.

    But tensions can be dialed way down with a little preparation, said certified dog behaviorist Gabrielle Johnson of Richmond, Virginia. Knowing when to pull the plug and head for a pet-friendly hotel or boarder is also key.

    “Certainly holidays can be a tricky time because everyone’s out of their routine, out of their schedule. We’re in tight spaces. Stress is high,” Johnson said.

    Johnson warns that dogs that are typically fine at home may be pushed too far. Learning to read unusual body language is important.

    “Things like yawning, licking their lips, turning away, looking away, freezing, getting tense,” they said. “We want to see soft, wiggly, loose, relaxed. If we see some of those (other) signs, it may be an indicator that it’s time to get our dog out of that situation.”

    Taking a crate along is a great idea for already crate-trained dogs but don’t try to force it for the first time, trainers said. Packing a bed and familiar blankets, toys, dishes, and food and treats are musts.

    First-time introductions between dogs should be done on neutral ground, outdoors. The humans should plan ahead in case pets need to be separated, including considering baby gates, particularly when dogs are eating. Owners who suspect anxiety might be a problem could consider medication.

    Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer for Rover.com, suggests practicing with dogs who have not traveled much. If a dog is going from a quiet rural area to a noisier urban environment, take a few shorter trips to simulate the holiday surroundings, she said.

    She also advises packing mental enrichment toys to help a dog decompress and navigate a new environment without getting rowdy. Licking and chewing also help a dog self-soothe, Ellis said.

    James Paasche of Central Point, Oregon, will spend six days in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, 6-year-old daughter and 11-year-old dog, Walter, for Christmas.

    Paasche’s brother has three dogs of his own, including two older ones. Walter, anxious his entire life, has met only his younger canine cousin. He takes medication but once nipped at a child on a previous stay at another home. The children of Paasche’s brother are older, but he’s concerned about the two new dogs.

    “You know how it is with older dogs, they get a little more set in their ways and are less amenable to new things that puppies and younger dogs just don’t care about,” Paasche said. The hosts have a garage for Walter if things go awry.

    Dr. Jamie Richardson, head of veterinary medicine for Small Door Vet in New York, said keeping a dog’s diet consistent should be top of mind.

    “Their GI tracts can get upset very easily with change,” she said. “Don’t assume your food will be available locally.”

    Richardson said dogs should be introduced to young children slowly and very carefully. If toddlers don’t understand the concept of leaving a dog alone, they should be separated.

    Home stays aren’t all gloom and doom, though.

    Phoebe Yung of Brooklyn adopted a pandemic pup, a rat terrier named Moose. She and her husband travel with Moose often, including long trips to Europe. The holidays have them driving to Montreal to stay with relatives — including two young children — for six days.

    “When she sees her pet carrier she jumps right in,” Yung said of Moose. “We really try to follow the rules of any house we’re in. We bring along a mat, and when she’s sniffing around a new place and seems to find a spot she’s comfortable with we put it down and that’s her spot.”

    Young children scare Moose, but she runs away and shakes in a corner rather than getting aggressive, Yung said. She added that she would step in if Moose gets too stressed.

    Emily Keegans, Seattle Humane’s chief of animal behavior, said dog owners should ask themselves if the situation is going to be a happy one for their animals, and communicate with hosts.

    “If I have friends or family come to stay at my house, my first question is ‘How does your dog get along with cats?’” she said. If the answer isn’t promising, she’ll put her cat in another room and talk through logistics.

    Lily Hargis lives in Richmond with Milo, the Labrador-Australian shepherd mix she rescued last year. She spent her last three Christmases visiting her great-grandmother — who has no pets — in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

    “I’ll never forget the stress of that first holiday with Milo in her home, how worried I was about his behavior being perfect and reflecting on me,” Hargis said. “I think it’s especially tough when there’s a generational gap.”

    Happily, her great-grandmother warmed up to Milo right away: “Within five minutes she had him up on the couch and in her lap getting cuddles.”

    This year, Christmas will be closer to home, but she has other worries involving Bourbon, her stepsister’s ancient pit bull who “won’t tolerate any shenanigans.”

    To prepare, Hargis and her mother spent several sessions with Johnson, working on getting Milo and Bourbon to a place “where they could comfortably relax in the space together.”

    “It just felt necessary,” Hargis explained. “There are so many aspects of the holidays that require our dogs to do things they really don’t practice much.”

    As soon as they arrive, Hargis will prepare frozen Kongs and other enrichment items to help Milo decompress in a quiet room.

    “Honestly, I sometimes get jealous of how well his holidays are curated to avoid stress and maximize fun,” Hargis said. “It makes me want to see how I can do the same for myself.”

    ___

    Follow Leanne Italie on Twitter at http://twitter.com/litalie

    —-

    For more AP Lifestyles stories, go to https://apnews.com/hub/lifestyle.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Valerie Bertinelli Says She’s ‘Grateful’ For Her Loved Ones’ Support As She Celebrates First Christmas Since Finalizing Divorce From Tom Vitale

    Valerie Bertinelli Says She’s ‘Grateful’ For Her Loved Ones’ Support As She Celebrates First Christmas Since Finalizing Divorce From Tom Vitale

    [ad_1]

    By Becca Longmire.
    Published:
    Last updated:

    Valerie Bertinelli is feeling thankful for the support of her nearest and dearest this holiday season.

    The actress has been enjoying her first Christmas since confirming she’d finalized her divorce from Tom Vitale in November.

    Bertinelli wrote on Instagram, “Merry Christmas, everyone! 🎄 As we end another year, I cannot help but feel grateful for the love and support of my family and loved ones. ✨

    “There’s nothing quite like spending time with the people who matter most, and I hope you all can do the same this holiday season. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the special moments we share with our loved ones and the joy and warmth they bring to our lives. 💕

    “Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy new year! Love, Valerie ☺️”


    READ MORE:
    Valerie Bertinelli And Son Wolfgang Van Halen Celebrate Thanksgiving Days After Her Divorce

    As part of her divorce settlement, Bertinelli was required to fork over $2.2 million to Vitale, ET previously confirmed.

    She filed for legal separation on Nov. 24, 2021, before filing for divorce on May 12 in Los Angeles Superior Court. She cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the dissolution of the marriage. The pair had tied the knot back in 2011.


    READ MORE:
    Valerie Bertinelli Responds Hilariously To Matthew Perry’s Claim Of ‘Make-Out Session’ While Eddie Van Halen Was Passed Out Drunk

    Bertinelli was previously married to the late Eddie Van Halen from 1981-2007. The pair share son Wolfgang, 31.

    [ad_2]

    Becca Longmire

    Source link

  • A nutritionist shares the best snacks to bring on a plane to boost your immune system

    A nutritionist shares the best snacks to bring on a plane to boost your immune system

    [ad_1]

    Travelers have a host of pathogens to dodge this winter, including the “tripledemic” of infections caused by Covid-19, flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).

    But there are steps people can take to reduce their chances of getting sick, say health specialists at Spain’s SHA Wellness Clinic.

    The key is to develop “a resilient immune system that can defend itself from attack by viruses and bacteria,” said Dr. Vicente Mera, SHA’s head of genomic medicine.

    What to eat

    “The most important thing is nutrition,” Mera said.

    But drastic dieting isn’t necessary, he added. Rather, travelers can simply eat whole, plant-based foods, which can help decrease inflammation, he said.

    Fiber in plant-based foods also helps the gut microbiome “fight pathogens that enter or are activated through the digestive tract,” he said.

    Dr. Vicente Mera, Melanie Waxman and Philippa Harvey of SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante, Spain.

    Source: SHA Wellness Clinic

    Eating a nutrient-dense diet is the top recommendation from Melanie Waxman, an integrative nutrition specialist and eating coach at SHA Wellness Clinic.

    That means eating “lots of vegetables, whole grains, fresh herbs, beans, sea vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and fermented foods,” she said.

    What to pack on a plane

    Waxman said travelers should snack on alkaline foods to combat acidity that is commonly caused by air travel. She recommended these easy-to-pack foods:

    • Toasted nori snacks: “Great for travelling as they are light and easy to carry in small packs. Nori is alkaline and provides a good source of vitamin C, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, protein and minerals.”
    • Instant miso soup: “Contains all the essential amino acids … and restores beneficial probiotics to the intestines … great for flights and in hotel rooms as you only need to add boiling water to the sachet.”
    • Spirulina powder: “Packed with calcium and protein. It has a high chlorophyll content … is especially beneficial after spending hours in airplane cabins. The flavor can be strong so add it to a refreshing vegetable juice … [or take] as a capsule.”  
    • Plum balls: “A wonderful travel companion, as they are extremely alkaline, full of minerals that help increase energy, aid digestion, boost immunity and improve liver functions … the balls come in a container and are easy to pack in a cabin bag.”

    A fermented plum, called umeboshi in Japanese, can be added to a cup of tea on a flight. It is a “very sour plum that has been fermented for at least three years,” said SHA Wellness Clinic’s Melanie Waxman.

    Tomophotography | Moment | Getty Images

    Breakfast

    Waxman recommends drinking one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with a glass of water before breakfast. The vinegar is “a powerful immune booster … full of probiotics,” she said.

    For breakfast, a “wonderful” choice is oatmeal topped with berries, chia seeds and flax seeds, she said.

    “Oats actually help the body produce melatonin more naturally,” she said. “Oats contain amino acids, potassium, B vitamins, magnesium and complex carbs … berries pack a punch of vitamin C, and the seeds provide extra omega-3 and protein.”

    Jet lag

    To combat jet lag, Waxman recommends taking more vitamin C.

    She recommends eating sauerkraut, both before and after flying. “Fermenting cabbage causes the vitamin C and antioxidant levels to skyrocket,” she said.

    Fresh vegetable juice is also great for immunity and jet lag recovery, she said.

    Getting enough sleep

    Sleep and immunity are closely linked, Mera said.  

    “Restful sleep strengthens nature immunity,” he said, adding that poor quality, or quantity, of sleep increases the chances of falling sick.

    People who average less than six hours of sleep a night, or 40 hours per week, have “a serious risk of illness,” he said.

    Exercise — but don’t overdo it

    Moderate exercise strengthens the immune system, Mera said.

    But “30 minutes a day is more than enough,” he said. “Prolonged intense exercise can suppress the immune system.”

    To avoid suppressing the immune system, travelers shouldn’t exercise to the point of exhaustion, said Dr. Vicente Mera, head of genomic medicine at SHA Wellness Clinic.

    Westend61 | Westend61 | Getty Images

    Examples of beneficial exercise include running, walking, swimming and cycling, he said.

    Supplements, for some

    Studies indicate that certain supplements — such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, garlic, echinacea and green tea — may strengthen the body’s immune response, Mera said.

    But, he said, they’re not necessary for everyone.

    “It only compensates for nutrient deficiencies, which usually occur when nutrition is inadequate, or the immune system is very depressed,” he said.

    Other recommendations

    To strengthen the immune system, Waxman also suggests Epsom salt baths (“magnesium is easily absorbed through the skin”), using essential oils (“especially lavender, eucalyptus or tree tree oil”), drinking plenty of water and cutting back on alcohol, caffeine and sugar.

    Mera added that relieving stress and anxiety is critical to immune health. He recommends meditation, yoga, tai chi and mindfulness to better manage emotions.

    Philippa Harvey, head of SHA’s traditional Chinese medicine department, said travelers should start taking steps to strengthen their immune systems about a week before traveling.

    “In TCM when someone is healthy and happy we say they have good qi, pronounced ‘chee’” she said.

    She recommends eating foods that are in season, especially garlic and ginger in the autumn and winter.

    She also recommends exercise and acupressure to stay healthy.

    “Before we travel, a nice brisk walk in fresh air is the simplest solution,” she said.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • U.S. Officials: COVID-19, Bomb Cyclone Won’t Slow Santa’s Travels

    U.S. Officials: COVID-19, Bomb Cyclone Won’t Slow Santa’s Travels

    [ad_1]

    The U.S. military agency known for tracking Santa Claus as he delivers presents on Christmas Eve doesn’t expect COVID-19 or the “bomb cyclone” hitting North America to affect Saint Nick’s global travels.

    NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, is responsible for monitoring and defending the skies above North America.

    But the Colorado Springs, Colorado-based agency also runs the NORAD Tracks Santa service, which allows people to follow his Christmas journey through its noradsanta.org website, social media channels and mobile app.

    The agency this year plans to have about 1,500 volunteers working on Christmas Eve to field phone calls from children who want to know Santa’s location and delivery schedule.

    In this photo released by the U.S. Department of Defense, volunteers answer phones and emails from children around the globe during annual NORAD Tracks Santa event at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado on Christmas Eve in 2021.

    Jhomil Bansil/U.S. Department of Defense via AP)

    NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, is the U.S. military agency known for tracking Santa Claus as he delivers presents on Christmas Eve. The agency doesn’t expect COVID-19 or the “bomb cyclone” hitting North America to affect Saint Nick’s global travels.
    NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, is the U.S. military agency known for tracking Santa Claus as he delivers presents on Christmas Eve. The agency doesn’t expect COVID-19 or the “bomb cyclone” hitting North America to affect Saint Nick’s global travels.

    Lt. General David Nahom, a NORAD official based in Anchorage, Alaska, said the pandemic has not affected Santa’s busy delivery schedule and he doesn’t expect any impact this weekend.

    The freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall that’s disrupting holiday travel in the U.S. shouldn’t be a problem for a man who lives at the North Pole, Nahom said.

    “I think Santa will be right at home with the Arctic weather that’s hitting into the lower 48,” Nahom said.

    NORAD’s holiday tradition began in 1955 after a kid mistakenly called a Colorado military command asking to speak to Santa. More calls came in so the commander on duty assigned an officer to answer the Santa calls, and the tradition took hold.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • How Retailers Can Ensure They’re Setup for Success This Holiday Season

    How Retailers Can Ensure They’re Setup for Success This Holiday Season

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Over the last couple of years, Christmas in July has taken on a new meaning for retailers — what once was an opportunity to offer a summer sale has now transformed into a critical time to prepare for the upcoming holiday shopping season.

    But the past few holiday shopping seasons have proven to be anything but ordinary. The past two years, the pandemic caused supply chain delays resulting in backlogs and undelivered gifts, a challenge for retailers and a lesson learned for consumers. As a result, this year, consumers began their holiday shopping earlier to avoid supply chain bottlenecks and to combat high inflation — with 25% of consumers starting as early as August or September. Additionally, the pandemic accelerated the online shopping trend, with new data suggesting that 24.5% of this year’s total retail holiday sales will come from online orders.

    With all of this in mind, some (myself included) may argue that July may be too late for retailers to start their holiday season planning, especially given that the holiday season can account for up to 30% of retailers’ annual sales.

    Related: July Is Just Early Enough to Start Planning for Holiday Selling

    So, how can retailers adapt their strategies to focus on holiday season planning throughout the entire year (as opposed to just the second half) to cover all their bases, increase revenue and prepare for the unexpected?

    Prioritize cash flow planning

    Consumers are currently facing the highest inflation rates in nearly 40 years and a halt in government stimulus payments, which in turn impacts how they approach their holiday shopping (e.g., how much they’re planning to spend, through what channels, etc.).

    As a result, small business retailers are entering a challenging and unpredictable time. To mitigate this uncertainty, they must look internally and assess their cash flow well in advance of the holiday season in order to be best prepared for what’s ahead.

    The most effective way retailers can approach this is by creating different cash flow scenarios early in the year that map out the business’ best-case scenario, worst-case scenario and most likely scenario for how the holiday season will pan out. Accounting for these three scenarios can help retailers create a plan of action for how they’ll tackle any challenges and how they’ll activate each scenario. Proper planning gives business owners the confidence needed to forge forward by removing ambiguity and unexpected situations (e.g., not having enough cash on hand, supply chain delays) come the most critical time of year.

    Whether you’re a big box retailer or a local mom-and-pop shop, it’s important to have a full understanding of your cash flow positioning year-round in order to make key business decisions and plan for various scenarios. For small businesses, leaning into technology such as Xero, a cloud-based accounting software platform, allows small business owners to keep track of their cash flow across the customer journey. Keeping track of this data in real-time can help retailers see their full cash position at any point in the year, which can help contribute to their holiday planning strategies.

    An important question all retailers should be asking themselves early in the planning process is: How will my product/service make out if the economy dips into a recession and budgets get tighter? Where does my product/service sit on the hierarchy of needs? If you’re a retailer selling non-essential items (e.g., jewelry, home decor) your planning strategy may look different than if you’re selling essential items like groceries. Having an understanding of your product and consumer purchase patterns will allow you to assess strategies such as how to price your product, how to manage the supply chain, how to effectively market the product/service and beyond.

    As retailers start their holiday planning earlier in the year, what factors should they consider during the planning process?

    Return policies

    According to the National Retail Federation, $218 billion worth of online purchases were returned in 2021 — more than double the year before. The uptick in returns is likely due to retailers offering more lenient return policies during the pandemic as they sought out creative solutions to address in-store closures/restrictions.

    Two years later, retailers (especially small businesses) are now facing higher costs for labor and shipping due to persistent inflation, requiring them to look inward for alternative ways to reduce costs (which for a lot of retailers is shaping up to include changes to generous return policies).

    My advice: Retailers should continue to offer lenient return policies around the holidays, including keeping the return window at least 30 days (in-person and online) and allowing for online-only purchases to be returned in stores. Keeping the window shorter (but still allowing for returns) can help alleviate the impact returns have on the beginning of the year’s cash flow.

    Supply chain

    Worldwide supply chain constraints have had a lasting impact on retail operations. If we’ve learned one thing from these challenges, it’s the importance of planning.

    Having an adequate supply chain strategy in place will reduce the risk of overspending on unnecessary items and the risk of running out of supply for highly sought items. Ordering inventory early in the year can ensure you have adequate stock for top-selling items when the holiday season rolls around. Not having a bestselling product available often means the product will get substituted by the best alternative.

    My advice: Consumer data is your best friend. Properly tracking and utilizing this data can help you have a better understanding of your consumers and their purchase patterns, and which products will likely be in high demand during the holidays (for inventory planning purposes).

    Related: Think It’s Too Early to Strategize for Holiday Ecommerce Sales? Think Again.

    Labor market

    A tight labor market and rising labor costs continue to cause challenges during the holiday hiring season. Failing to meet hiring goals can eventually lead to a loss in sales due to not having enough staff to help ensure shipments, inventory and in-person sales are accounted for.

    My advice: Retailers should consider revamping recruiting strategies, raising wages, offering flexible schedules and extending benefits in order to attract new or seasonal hires. For retailers who are rethinking their reliance on seasonal workers, consider more appealing offerings for regular staff to take on extra hours.

    Consumer behavior

    The current economic climate has impacted the way consumers approach brand loyalty, with many looking to shop for the best deal, even if it’s not through their preferred retailer. As economic uncertainty persists, consumers are experiencing behavioral shifts.

    My advice: Retailers should focus on loyalty strategies to reward customers for shopping at their stores (e.g., offering exclusive deals to loyalty members or offering a point system for each dollar spent rewarding customers down the line with credit or a gift). Retailers can also draw in new customers by offering bonus rewards for signing up for the loyalty program that encourage them to return to the store. Creating a connected omnichannel experience where the physical and online stores sync is also a big draw for consumers.

    Adequate planning and forecasting throughout the year is the foolproof way to ensure your business is best positioned for the most wonderful time of year. By preparing for the upcoming holiday season year-round as opposed to just in the second half of the year, retailers can directly apply lessons learned from the previous year, effectively plan for various scenarios based on different external factors (i.e., inflation) and get a head start on competitors.

    [ad_2]

    Ben Richmond

    Source link

  • Hilary Duff And Matthew Koma’s Kids Tie Them Up And Hold Them Hostage In Hilarious Holiday Card

    Hilary Duff And Matthew Koma’s Kids Tie Them Up And Hold Them Hostage In Hilarious Holiday Card

    [ad_1]

    By Becca Longmire.
    Published:

    Hilary Duff and her husband Matthew Koma didn’t go for your usual holiday card.

    The “Lizzie McGuire” actress took to Instagram on Wednesday to share their 2022 family card, showing the two parents being held hostage by their kids.

    Duff and Koma share daughters Banks Violet, 4, and Mae James, 1, together, while Duff also has son Luca Cruz, 10, with ex-husband Mike Comrie.

    The adults are tied up with tape over their mouths in the snap, while the three kids eat cupcakes and giggle.

    Duff wrote alongside the image, “Happy Holidays!”

    The phrase “All Is Not Calm” was also included on the card.

    The post came on the same day that Duff and Koma celebrated their third wedding anniversary.


    READ MORE:
    Hilary Duff Opens Up About Suffering A ‘Horrifying’ Eating Disorder At 17

    Koma gushed, “We crushed 3 years @hilaryduff 🧡Anyone who says marriage is easy, hasn’t been married or is raging slightly too high a microdose. But the work is the best part. The beauty truly is in going deeper with someone than you’ve ever been before and navigating an invisible map that only the two of you can trek. The hard stuff makes the great stuff even greater. Thank you ba for loving me. I know that isn’t always easy.

    “Thank you for listening to every version of Springsteen doing Santa Clause Is Coming To Town this time of year and pretending you know what I mean when I scream ‘Clarance’. Thank you for letting me keep 6 beverages on my nightstand. Thank you for traveling to see Dawes with me in foreign countries.

    “Thank you for raising our very cute and very unstable three kids. Thank you for being so hot and letting me do things to the body. It’s so sick. When you leave me for Harry, I’ll totally understand and I hope our kids get his fashion sense and that he loves going to sleep at 6pm as much as you. You’re not allowed to look at pictures of Matt Healy tho.”


    READ MORE:
    Hilary Duff Makes A Furry Friend On Set Of ‘How I Met Your Father’ Season 2 

    Duff added, alongside some cute family shots: “Matthew. I love you so much. Happy 3 years! I don’t know if you knew what you were getting into or that you weren’t going to sleep or sit down for the next 5-10 years but I think for the most part you’re pretty happy about it. Our life is so full and I’m over the top grateful for the guy that I got to do all this madness with.”

    [ad_2]

    Becca Longmire

    Source link

  • Toast to Your Employees With 18 Bottles of Wine From Splash

    Toast to Your Employees With 18 Bottles of Wine From Splash

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Engaged workers are more positive and productive, and they have the potential to increase profitability by up to 21%. There are many ways an employer could increase their worker engagement, but you might start with simple seasonal celebrations.


    StackCommerce

    Acknowledge and appreciate everything your team accomplished in 2022 with some good food, good friends, and perhaps most importantly, good wine. Splash Wines has a collection of their top 18 picks for fall, and it’s only $64.98 through December 30, the best price we’ve seen online.

    Get 18 bottles of wine shipped to your door.

    A holiday mixer calls for an enticing mix of drinks. This variety box has a selection of reds, whites, and bubbles you could pop together while reflecting on the past 12 months. But before you order, take a survey of the office and give the team a chance to weigh in on their drinks of choice. If white wine is out of favor, you can pick all reds or vice versa.

    At your community-building event, if you open a bottle that nobody likes, don’t pay for it. The team at Splash Wines wants to make sure you enjoy what you drink; you can reach out and get a store credit for any bottle that wasn’t a hit, so no need stress over wasted budget.

    Speaking of budgets, when you’re planning the purchase, make sure to check your state and local taxes as you calculate the cost. There is also an added $39.95 shipping charge when you check out at Splash Wines, but even if you add the shipping costs to the base price, that still comes out to under $10 per bottle for high-quality wine.

    If all goes well, you may want to take a look at Splash Wines’ other offerings, especially for client dinners or gifts. As one verified buyer said, the wine was “[s]o good that I ordered a case of their premium wines.”

    Celebrate another year of great work.

    Improve employee engagement by toasting the work they’ve already put in. Until December 30 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific, get the Splash Wines Top 18 Wines for Fall 2022 on sale for $64.98 (reg. $350), no coupon required.

    Prices subject to change.

    [ad_2]

    Entrepreneur Store

    Source link

  • How the “Pivot to Christmas” Became a Career Expander for a Certain Kind of Star

    How the “Pivot to Christmas” Became a Career Expander for a Certain Kind of Star

    [ad_1]

    When Holly Robinson Peete, star of popular shows in the ’80s and ’90s like 21 Jump Street, Hanging With Mr. Cooper, and For Your Love, turned 40, she looked around at the film and television landscape and didn’t like her future. It would be made up, she feared, largely of grandmother or aunty roles, and that was if she was lucky enough to have any roles at all. Then her fellow ’90s star and friend Lori Loughlin told her about a place where the actors are still romantic leads well into middle age, and it just happens to be Christmas most of the year: the Hallmark Channel

    “Now I’m pushing 60 and I’m still number one on the call sheet with nice chocolate brown boys that are my love interest,” Peete said in a recent phone interview. “Like, I’m not aunty status.”

    You do not need Vanity Fair to tell you that Christmas and other holiday films have expanded significantly in the last 5 to 10 years. Simply turn on any channel or streaming service after October 21. More than 120 were made this year alone, and it’s not just Hallmark and Lifetime, which are the largest producers of Christmas-themed made-for-TV films in the US. Up TV, BET, Netflix, AMC, ABC, and the newly relaunched, and quickly controversial, Great American Family have tried to get a piece of the expansive pie. Coca-Cola even made a Christmas movie anthology this year. 

    But in that expansion is the equally steady growth of well-paying, dependable opportunities for a range of actors. Musicians have long turned to the holiday album for a reliable win in record sales against the odds—that is, through the Napster era into the Spotify era. See: Mariah Carey, Barbra Streisand, Ariana Grande, Michael Bublé, Justin Bieber, Idina Menzel, and so, so many more. Since Hallmark leaned all the way into Christmas over a decade ago, those musicians and actors, too, have another opportunity to pivot to Christmas. Though there are actors who come up within the world of the holiday film, for some pros with long resumés, the world of the holidays can be a space to extend one’s career onscreen and to get involved behind the camera. There’s now room for almost anyone, as long as they want to merge their brand with the generally wholesome family-oriented content on offer. 

    Lindsay Lohan is probably the biggest star for a certain demographic to get into the 2022 market with Falling for Christmas, alongside a two-film deal with Netflix widely viewed as a comeback for the actor. At Hallmark, you’ll also find Lohan’s Mean Girls costars, Jonathan Bennett and the network’s reigning queen of Christmas, Lacey Chabert. They also have Sister Sister’s Tamera Mowry-Housley and rom-com king Dermot Mulroney. (The “all cheer all the time crowd” is not without its reactionaries. Hallmark formerly had Candace Cameron Bure and The Wonder Years’ Danica McKellar, but last year, the two actors jumped to Great American Family, which Bill Abbott, former head of Crown Media, Hallmark’s parent company, cocreated and aimed expressly at a Christian audience. That means, Bure has gone out of her way to say, don’t expect LGBTQ+ stories.) Meanwhile, at Lifetime, where they, like Hallmark, turn their programming over to holiday content before the clock even strikes Halloween, the onscreen talent is full of familiar names and faces: Kelly Rowland, Mario Lopez, Reba McEntire, Kelsey Grammer, Tia Mowry, Patti LaBelle, and Rita Moreno have all joined the cause.

    The actors who make a great “get” in the space certainly have a “nostalgia factor,” according to Amy Winter, Lifetime executive vice president and head of programming. But besides being recognizable, “there’s a likability, there’s a relatability to everybody that’s in the season. You feel like, if you showed up and they were near you, that you would be fast friends. No matter how big of a star they are, they just have that unique quality, each of them individually.” 

    And sometimes it’s all about the pairing. “We were very excited to work with Jane Seymour this year,” Winter added. “And then, we’re like, do we think we could get Joe Lando? Because it would be really amazing if there was this Dr. Quinn reunion. Our audience gets it and loves it. There’s a nostalgia factor to it.” 

    This year, those two old costars released A Christmas Spark on Lifetime.

    For the talent, one pro is perhaps obvious. They’re able to reach larger audiences in a world where rom-coms rarely get theater releases anymore and the streaming landscape is so fractured. Holiday programming’s reliable numbers are a ratings story every year, it seems. So far, 2022 is no different. Nothing has been tied up with a bow yet, but by early December, Hallmark’s films were averaging two million viewers each, according to Decider.

    There’s also a participatory element actors may be looking for at a certain point in their careers.  As Lisa Hamilton Daly, the executive vice president of programming for Hallmark Media told me over email, “In the grand scheme of things, we are a small shop and our talent is our most valuable commodity, so we take a lot of care to make them feel valued and welcome; we want them to feel seen and heard, and we invite their creative input.”

    Peete, who has executive produced The Christmas Doctor and A Family Christmas Gift, among others, added, “It was the respect for my body of work, for my career. They didn’t make me audition.”

    There’s a similar homespun bent at Lifetime. Tanya Lopez, the network’s executive vice president who heads up scripted content, says a lot of the storylines audiences see onscreen comes directly from the actors, especially when it comes to the marquee names. Tony-award winner Ali Stroker was able to make adjustments to the script that felt true to her life in a wheelchair for her role in Christmas Ever After. But, Lopez added, it didn’t have to “feel like an after-school special… It was a Christmas movie and she was the love interest.” 

    And when Lifetime was in talks with Kelly Rowland about potential films, she inspired what would become one of the most popular holiday films on the network. Lopez’s team and Rowland met one recent February, and Rowland was still traumatized from the panic of hosting her entire family, nieces, and nephews, and all, for Christmas in her newly decorated home—newly decorated in white from top to bottom. 

    [ad_2]

    Kenzie Bryant

    Source link

  • A ‘Bomb Cyclone’ Threatens to Make Holiday Travel a Nightmare

    A ‘Bomb Cyclone’ Threatens to Make Holiday Travel a Nightmare

    [ad_1]

    Santa Claus might want to sit this Christmas out.

    Meteorologists are warning that a massive winter blizzard will hit a large portion of the U.S. in the next few days. Described as a “bomb cyclone,” the storm will bring heavy snowfall and bone-chilling temperatures, disrupting travel plans for millions of Americans.

    The terrible weather couldn’t have arrived at a worse time.

    According to the Automobile Association of America, 112.7 million people will journey 50 miles or more away from home from December 23 to January 2 this season, an increase of 3.6 million people from last year.

    But as of Wednesday night, 200 million people were under extreme weather alerts as the storm moved eastward toward the Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes. The storm will also bring strong winds and a possible flash freeze to parts of the Midwest, East, and South.

    Winter Storm Warnings have been issued all the way from Denver to Buffalo.

    Already, more than 484 U.S. flights scheduled between Wednesday and Friday have been canceled, according to the flight-tracking service FlightAware.

    Related: The Rise in Natural Disasters Is Putting More Businesses at Risk. Are You Protected?

    What is a bomb cyclone?

    A bomb cyclone happens when atmospheric pressure at the center of a storm drops rapidly to about 1 [millibar]every hour for 24 hours, causing freezing temperatures, heavy winds, and heavy snow.

    “It’s called a bomb cyclone because a low pressure (or cyclone) undergoes ‘bombogenesis,’ which refers to the quick rate at which the low pressure develops,” Mike Bettes, a meteorologist for The Weather Channel, told CBS News.

    The combination of life-threatening temperatures and strong winds also leads to dangerous wind chills.

    [ad_2]

    Jonathan Small

    Source link

  • 7 Ways to Thank Your Employees This Holiday Season

    7 Ways to Thank Your Employees This Holiday Season

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Christmas is around the corner, and the holiday season is in full swing. I like to “wow” my employees with a little holiday cheer every year. As small business owners, it’s easy to forget the important things. That’s where I come in…I simply can’t forget!

    I focus on employee satisfaction all year long, from handing out awards to planning Halloween celebrations. But towards the end of the year, it always feels like the floodgates open up, and I want to give my employees a little more than normal. But where do you start? How do you top yourself every year? Well, don’t worry. My gift to you is this list of seven simple ways to thank your employees this holiday season.

    1. Give a handwritten thank you with a box of chocolates and cookies

    This is the ultimate classic way to say thanks — and it’s still one of the best. This is it if you want something that’s not too flashy but will show how much you appreciate your employees’ hard work. A handwritten thank you letter accompanied by a box of chocolates and cookies. Although this might seem like a small gesture, it will greatly impact your employees. Showing them that you care about what they do and appreciate their hard work will help build trust and loyalty in the company.

    Related: 4 Seasonal Side Hustles to Keep Your Pockets Jingling

    2. Schedule a vacation to the favorite destination for everyone on your team

    I know this sounds like a dream come true, but it’s doable.

    Planning a vacation for your employees is a great way to show them you appreciate them.

    It can be their favorite place in the world or somewhere nearby — whatever makes them happy will do. If you don’t have the budget to send everyone on a trip, consider sending your top-performing or most deserving employees and their families. This way, you can ensure that everyone has a great time without breaking the bank or stressing out about how much money you’re spending.

    3. Do a gift exchange

    A secret Santa or white elephant gift exchange is a fun way to get your employees excited and involved in the holiday spirit. Everyone gets the same amount of money to spend on each other, and they can choose funny, thoughtful or just plain silly gifts.

    It’s also a great opportunity to get some insight into what your employees want — and what they might not have thought to ask for themselves.

    Related: Why Giving Back Is Good for You and Your Business This Season (and All Year Long)

    4. Give personalized gifts

    A gift can be an excellent starting point for developing strong relationships. Giving is great, but giving thoughtful presents is even better.

    Personalized gifts are the perfect way to show your employees that you appreciate them. And when your employees feel appreciated, they will be more motivated and productive at work.

    Plus, personalized gifts are easy on your wallet: You don’t have to spend a ton of money on expensive presents for everyone in your office. Just a little imagination and patience will do.

    For example, if you give your employees a nice bottle of wine but don’t make a big deal out of it, they will think it wasn’t much of a gift. But if you add some personal touches and make the process more thoughtful, your employees will feel much more appreciated.

    A family portrait is my favorite personalized gift.

    5. Hand out bonuses

    The holiday season is a time for giving, and that’s exactly what your employees deserve. A nice, fat bonus will help lift their spirits and show them how much you appreciate their hard work all year.

    Bonus time is an opportunity to show your employees how much you appreciate them and the work they put in this year. If you already have a bonus system, consider adding extra cash to your employees’ paychecks this year. Even if you don’t have a formal policy, consider giving something small as a token of appreciation.

    Although this might seem like a small gesture, it can go a long way toward building relationships with your team members — which is positive for everyone in the long run.

    Related: The Truth Behind The Holiday Slowdown and How to Avoid It

    6. Buy them a present from their wishlist

    This is the easiest way to show appreciation for your employees. It’s also most meaningful because you give them exactly what they want. It’s guaranteed to be something they’ll love and use.

    If you don’t know what they want, look at their social media profiles and see if there are any hints about their hobbies or interests. If not, ask them. Be sure to ask early enough so you can get them something in time for the holidays.

    7. Give employees access to exclusive discounts

    Sometimes an extravagant gift isn’t within your budget. However, you can still make an impact by giving your employees exclusive discounts on items they would love to buy. For example, if you have an employee who runs frequently and loves running apparel, consider giving them a coupon code for 20% off at Nike. This will let them get something they want without paying full price (and it will also make them feel appreciated).

    When it comes to saying thanks, big gestures and impressive gifts are always fun. But simple acts go a long way too. I’m taking these to heart this holiday season because it takes some thoughtfulness on our part to show gratitude and create an atmosphere of appreciation for the hard-working people on our teams.

    Related: These Teens Went on ‘Shark Tank’ With a Product That Will Change the Way You Decorate Your Christmas Tree. Now, It’s a Multi-Million-Dollar Business.

    [ad_2]

    Chris Kille

    Source link

  • Have a Punk Christmas with Brent Butler’s “Brooklyn Christmas Eve”

    Have a Punk Christmas with Brent Butler’s “Brooklyn Christmas Eve”

    [ad_1]

    What says Christmas in Brooklyn better than a chorus of, “Light up my Christmas tree like a cigarette / We don’t need eggnog / We’ve got Jameson”?

    All I want for Christmas is…a mohawk? In “Brooklyn Christmas Eve” — Brent Butler’s punky/power-pop tribute to the holiday season — a mohawk could actually be on someone’s wish list. Butler and his pals – judging by the lyrics – aren’t expecting much in the line of presents this year, and they’re okay with that:

    Unemployed, so we got no shopping bags

    But we’re happy with the little things we have

    Radio says this is the best time of the year

    But my wish is for summer to appear

    Influenced by the Pogues and Green Day, Butler brings his own millennial-infused, charmingly off-beat sensibility to this chanson pour Noël.

    If Butler got you pogo-ing around the Christmas tree, lend an ear to his 2018 debut EP Lilac. It’s a genre-bending blend of new wave and hip-hop and is available on any number of platforms.

    Find Butler’s latest music on Apple Music or Spotify.

    POP⚡DUST | Read More…

    Fortnite Sued for Dance Moves: Can You Copyright Choreography?

    Public Enemy’s Chuck D Joins Universal Hip Hop Museum as Board Chairman

    Suicidal Pete Davidson Reminds All That Mental Illness Isn’t Funny

    From Your Site Articles

    Related Articles Around the Web

    [ad_2]

    Popdust Staff

    Source link

  • Why Giving Back Is Good for You and Your Business

    Why Giving Back Is Good for You and Your Business

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    It’s the most demanding time of the year. Entrepreneurs are easily overwhelmed during the holidays. Product-based businesses run sales and move more volume, but even companies that go quiet often spend this season working on big-picture strategies. Add to that: staffing shortages and personal obligations. Many entrepreneurs I work with have complicated family dynamics, magnified by the pressure of holiday travel and ambient festive stress.

    You might be surprised at my advice to improve your mental health this season. Entrepreneurs, consider doing even more — but for others. Add “giving back” to your holiday checklist or New Year’s resolutions. Think of it as a gift to yourself.

    Related: How Giving Back to the Community Helps People and Businesses

    The case for giving back

    Entrepreneurs are good at many things; we are not known for taking care of our mental health. And the odds are not in our favor.

    As a demographic, entrepreneurs are prone to depression at much higher rates. Colder weather, shorter days and holiday hustle can exacerbate these issues. If you run an early-stage startup, you might wire in before sunrise and shut down after sunset.

    Some of my clients became entrepreneurs to lean into work, avoid complicated personal situations or gain independence — even escape dysfunctional family patterns. It’s often easier to hold those boundaries without holiday-induced guilt. Now, your work commitments might be challenged by friends and family with the retort, “But it’s Christmas!” A craving for independence, on the flip side, can come with loneliness.

    Researchers have found that acts of service can help alleviate stress. Giving is good for your physical and mental health, with studies suggesting “pro-social spending,” including donations to charity, is associated with a boost in happiness, whereas buying new stuff is not. More tangibly, giving is linked to lower blood pressure, reduced levels of depression and increased self-esteem. This “helper’s high” might be caused by feel-good brain chemicals released with good deeds, including serotonin and the relationship-fusing oxytocin. Humans are inherently social creatures, and volunteering fosters human connection. For this reason and others, group volunteer activities are also great for team-building.

    How to find your cause (and get your business involved)

    Besides making the world a better place and improving your health, there’s more return on your pro-social investment when your company gets involved. A staggering 82% of shoppers want brands to align with their values. Giving back might secure customers and boost loyalty among young workers seeking jobs with greater purpose.

    For better brand integration, consider a cause that complements your core offering. A tech company might run a free coding workshop, for instance, or even a simple Facebook or smartphone tutorial at a seniors’ center. Be sure to take these outings on workdays (consider it a great alternative to icebreakers and the forced fun of team retreats).

    Sometimes an act of service means aligning your unique specialty with your community, and sometimes it’s more loosely tied to your work. Many of my clients are solopreneurs who prefer to volunteer for more personal causes. One client, Chris, sits on the board of several non-profits to offer budgetary advice and help set strategic goals. His business expertise is helpful to small charities, which are often understaffed and under-resourced. While his company isn’t involved, he’s using his skills.

    When I released my book on grieving and loss, I channeled my passion for circus arts into the launch event. I hosted a circus show in my hometown of Minneapolis to benefit the local chapter of NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, in honor of my late brother. Our community of artists offered free tickets to a local BIPOC circus organization, Vivid Black Paint, and the Minnesota chapter of Motherless Daughters, a support group for women and girls who have lost mothers.

    Related: 4 Ways Companies Can Foster a Culture of Giving Back

    For entrepreneurs, altruism means thinking critically about who should be in the room and who is often missing. We have the skills and resources to clear obstacles and open doors. For many, that takes the form of mentoring, teaching entrepreneurship workshops at community organizations or taking part in a high school’s pitch day. Or maybe you’d prefer to break from the business while you give back to a cause that fuels a personal passion for the arts or environmental preservation.

    I can’t tell you what’s most meaningful to you, but I can suggest that you make it a habit. Consider making your seasonal giving more than an annual tradition or New Year’s resolution. You don’t have to become a whole new person in January, but you can make regular donations or volunteer your time every quarter. The return on your investment is happier holidays and a better mood all year round.

    [ad_2]

    Sherry Walling, PhD

    Source link

  • How to Fight Through the Holiday Slowdown

    How to Fight Through the Holiday Slowdown

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Were you like me when you started on your journey as an entrepreneur? You’d get to around mid-November and find yourself frustrated because all momentum seemed to grind to a halt. Your suppliers take longer to deliver. Your clients don’t return your calls or emails for weeks, and there hangs in the air a feeling that nothing is going on (apart from present shopping, of course).

    The Christmas season slowdown has begun!

    This infuriated me as a young man trying to make his way into the business world. Why does everybody just down tools and give up for the year?!

    There’s a general sense that December is a write-off as people slow down and look to the new year. But what is that about? Why do we have this collective agreement, and what can we do about it as frustrated “go-getters”?

    The first thing to recognize is that this is a collective agreement — even Christmas is just that. We see it as the time of the year when we take a break during the cold. Ultimately though, the reason why we all engage in traditional behaviors around this time is purely that we’ve all agreed to.

    Related: 6 Ways to Keep Employees Engaged During the Holiday Season

    Collective agreements

    Everything is really a collective agreement in our society. Most of us agree to:

    • Work
    • Pay our taxes
    • The rule of law
    • Abide by the results of elections (mostly!)
    • Participate in traditions & the conventions of society

    There are clear reasons why we do agree to these things. We understand, for example, that there will be consequences to breaking the law, but it’s still just an agreement.

    We are all free agents within our realm. If you want to get home, strip off and cover yourself in hot sauce…you can. I wouldn’t advise it, but you can.

    But in that (admittedly ridiculous) example, by not doing so, you’re still abiding by the collective agreement that your family would probably deem you to be a danger to yourself and others and also that it would be physically unpleasant.

    Our business practices are the same way. We generally agree that there are specific ways of conducting oneself when onboarding a new client, for example, or when conducting meetings. Contractual obligations are another very literal agreement that we enter into with an understanding of the consequences should either party not fulfill their obligations.

    So why would the Christmas season slow down be any different?

    It does seem like something people assume to be a naturally occurring phenomenon. Like rock formations or aurora borealis. “Well, we’re all getting into the Christmas slowdown at work now. It’s just what happens, isn’t it?”

    But it’s not! It’s only a thing because we think it is.

    The truth is that you don’t have to abide by it if you don’t want to. It’s a relatively harmless agreement, after all. Instead of being frustrated like I used to be, though, think of ways that you can mitigate the impact on your business by shifting how you operate.

    Related: How to Create Trust and Keep Motivation High at Your Company

    Use December to take care of all those tasks that get put off during the rest of the year. Work on your preparedness for the upcoming year by reaching out to clients and asking them for feedback, for example. Or you could make those updates to the website you’ve been grumbling about since 2020.

    More than just housekeeping tasks, though, you could also use the time to work on yourself!

    If you’re finding the stress of running a business is getting to you, now is the time to interrogate that and find out what you can do about it. Start working mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Learn to listen to what your mind and body are telling you.

    Read More: 5 Text Messaging Tips for Businesses to Succeed in 2023

    If you’re at that precarious stage of business ownership, where you’re trying to focus on growth but also having to do the work, now is the time to sit down and determine how you will correct that. Get a roadmap together for next year that you can (and crucially: will) follow.

    It’s easy to see the Christmas holidays as a wind down to a final destination, but there is something on the other side! And it would be best if you prepared for it. Come out of the “new year’s gate” swinging, and you’ll steal a march on your competition. Moreover, your existing and prospective clients will see that energy and what a piece of it!

    The ultimate truth about the Christmas season slowing down is that you don’t have to participate. Others can sign up for that collective agreement if they want to, but you can use it to your advantage simply by reframing the situation.

    Happy holidays everyone.

    [ad_2]

    Daniel Mangena

    Source link

  • 4 Holiday Side-Hustles for Extra Cash

    4 Holiday Side-Hustles for Extra Cash

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    The holiday season is such a busy time that you might not think of taking on a side hustling gig. It’s the perfect time to do so because you are not the only one whose time is stretched to the limit. Everyone is going in ten directions at once; now’s your chance to step in, lend a hand, and make some excellent side-hustle money. Maybe you’d like to earn for that weekend getaway during the cold winter months or pay off those smoking-hot credit cards after your busy shopping season. Let’s look at some tremendous seasonal side hustles that also let you enjoy the fun of the holidays.

    Related: The Holiday Season Means More People Take on Side Hustles — the Difference This Year? They Don’t Plan to Quit Anytime Soon.

    1. Take your e-business live at a show or festival

    The holiday season is bustling with craft fairs and shopping festivals. Here’s your chance to combine a side hustle with valuable business research. My company, Hollywood Sensation Jewelry, has been an online business from the start. This year, my ingenious husband Anthony Hood suggested we participate in the Sunset Market, a huge outdoor market in Oceanside.

    Quite economically, we rented a booth, set up a tent and spent four hours selling Hollywood Sensation merchandise in public. I admit I had doubts about whether this would work for us, and I was even nervous about the public interaction. But, if you’ll forgive the pun, the results were sensational! We sold more than enough to offset our expenses. More than that, however, we got live feedback from real customers with whom we could speak one-on-one.

    If you have a product you’ve never taken out of the e-store, check your community calendar for upcoming festivals, conventions and fairs to get in on a new revenue stream and free market research. The cost of renting a booth will vary depending on the popularity and turnout of the event. I recommend starting small and scaling up if things go well. Be certain that you select an event that jibes with your brand. We might not want to take Hollywood Sensation Jewelry to a plumbing expo, but that sunset beach atmosphere was perfect for some glamor.

    Related: Unlike Many Things That Are a Lot of Work, Trade Shows Are Worth It

    2. Take your skills to the masses

    Do you have a knack for holiday décor? Fancy gift-wrapping? Event planning? Delectable baked goods? Well, not everybody does, and that’s why they need your services, especially at this time of year. Maybe you have a holiday cake or cookie recipe that gets rave reviews everywhere you go. Let folks at the office potluck and the church social know you’re available to bake one for them, too.

    Utilize social media to get your name out there as someone who can put up a beautiful Christmas tree (indoors or outdoors) and otherwise deck the halls. And don’t forget – while many people love to decorate for Christmas, almost no one loves taking it all back down again. Are you willing to do the untangling, repackaging and boxing of all that holly and mistletoe? Maybe you have a pickup truck and can haul away trees for responsible disposal.

    Sites like TaskRabbit.com let you create an account as a helping hand for a limitless variety of tasks and get customer reviews to build your reputation and bring in even more business. For example, TaskRabbit offers the following average costs for these services: “Party Clean Up” for $49-$80, “Toy Assembly” for $40-$99 and “Christmas Decorating” for $48-$86. You can even get paid to stand in line for someone else. I am not kidding!

    Related: 44 Profitable Ideas to Make Extra Money on the Side

    3. Reap the perks of a seasonal job

    Stores and delivery businesses always seek reliable help for the season. Showing yourself as an excellent seasonal employee means you can almost certainly be welcomed back the following year. And don’t forget – many stores offer their regular employee discounts to seasonal workers. If you’ve got your eye on an expensive purchase, you might get another 10% or more off the cost. My friend worked for five weeks at a home furnishings store and saved his family a bundle on new flooring and a refrigerator.

    Here’s another option: party companies are slammed this time of year, and they need people to prep, decorate, serve, check in guests, take coats, valet cars, conduct table games and clean up afterward. I have a friend who deals blackjack at holiday parties and enjoys it. She attends several fancy parties each year, hears the bands, meets fun people who are all having a great time and gets paid for doing it.

    Seasonal job salaries depend on your location, but here are some examples. On average, delivery companies pay about $16.00 per hour, warehouses about $13.80, and store gift wrappers earn around $12.00 an hour. When applying at retail stores with an eye on purchases, ask if their employee discount extends to seasonal help.

    Related: Start an Amazon Side Hustle and Earn Extra Money

    4. Be a sitter

    What do the holidays bring besides good cheer? Travelers! People have places to go and things to do, whether for an evening party, a busy shopping day away from the children or two weeks out of town. Ease their travel stress by being the person who holds down the fort. Reliable and friendly childcare, eldercare, housesitting and pet care take a load off everyone’s mind.

    It’s a relief to know someone is there to keep an eye on the house or check in on older relations to ensure all is safe. Once more, multiple gig websites let you register as a sitter (check out Rover.com or Care.com, for example). Or, get established in one neighborhood as a terrific house — or pet-sitter, and you’ll get more offers. Word gets around on the homeowners’ websites fast, and having multiple gigs in the same neighborhood adds to your convenience.

    Enjoy your holidays

    A holiday side hustle is more than just a way to supplement your income. Getting out into the holiday atmosphere is a great way to enjoy the season’s spirit, ease the stress for others and help create wonderful memories. Of course, giving is better than receiving, but if you can do both simultaneously with a holiday side hustle, that’s quite a reason to celebrate.

    [ad_2]

    Mary Hood

    Source link

  • Reese Witherspoon And Laura Dern Don’t Hold Back In Takedown Of THAT Viral Cocktail

    Reese Witherspoon And Laura Dern Don’t Hold Back In Takedown Of THAT Viral Cocktail

    [ad_1]

    On Thursday, Witherspoon shared a short video on TikTok and Instagram in which she and Dern attempt to enjoy a Negroni sbagliato while out at a bar. The cocktail ― made with Campari, sweet vermouth and sparkling wine ― has become a social media sensation in recent weeks, thanks to a televised interview with “House of the Dragon” actors Emma D’Arcy and Olivia Cooke that was featured on HBO Max’s TikTok account.

    Witherspoon’s video shows her playfully imitating D’Arcy’s cadence as she entices Dern to take a sip. However, it doesn’t take long for the “Big Little Lies” co-stars to determine that the Negroni sbagliato will never be their drink of choice.

    “That’s disgusting,” Dern proclaims with a wince, to which a giggling Witherspoon responds: “It is kind of gross.” Together, the pair then hand the drink off to an off-camera bartender.

    Of course, Dern and Witherspoon’s distaste will not likely diminish the Negroni sbagliato’s sudden popularity. As of Friday, HBO Max’s TikTok video in which D’Arcy enthusiastically praises the drink had been viewed more than 32 million times.

    D’Arcy has shrugged off much of the attention, suggesting that their zeal was simply the result of a tiring day of press coverage.

    “I feel so embarrassed,” the actor told The New York Times in October before quipping: “I’m obviously doing Campari’s next campaign.”

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • 5 Things Every Entrepreneur Should Do This Holiday Season

    5 Things Every Entrepreneur Should Do This Holiday Season

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    With the holiday season upon us and the end of another year quickly approaching, it can cause frenetic feelings about wrapping up final projects. On the other hand, it may offer a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come since January.

    Most of us fall somewhere in between, and it can be easy to lose focus as December 31 approaches. However, this holiday season, carve out time to tackle a few to-dos that will set you up nicely for the year ahead, give you space to think about what you’ve already achieved and prepare you for 2023.

    Related: 5 Things Entrepreneurs Should Focus on During the Holidays

    1. Write three goals you want to accomplish

    Whether you have ongoing monthly or quarterly goals, it’s wise to set three larger goals you want to accomplish in the new year. Consider if you want to switch direction come January or build upon what you’ve already created. Start big. Then, create a strategy with individual milestones to get you where you want to be.

    In business, most goals are attached to revenue but consider alternative perspectives as you plan for the future. What kind of client or service growth do you want to achieve? Do you want to attract a different type of audience? Do you want to add a new skill or certification to your repertoire? Perhaps a goal is to speak at an event or become an influencer in your industry. Whatever you want to achieve, attach your motivating “why” to each goal and map out tangible steps to make it easier to envision.

    Related: This Simple Brain Hack Will Help You Achieve All Your Goals

    2. Declutter your schedule

    Adding new goals and plans to 2023 means you must make room by decluttering your current schedule. The end of the year is an excellent time to review your ongoing meetings and commitments and evaluate where they can be trimmed or deleted altogether. Every entrepreneur knows time is a precious commodity, so to avoid getting burned out, make sure your calendar is full of things that help your growth.

    Simple changes may be to change a weekly meeting to twice a month or shorten regularly scheduled hour meetings to half the time. Take a look at all the organizations — both online and in-person — which may be taking up time with little to no return on investment. Also, consider areas that limit your productivity. Social media is always a common distraction. Although, for many, it’s necessary to maintain a presence online. To keep it a helpful tool (rather than a place for mindless scrolling), schedule specific times when you’ll post and check your channels. Then, step away from social media for the rest of the day.

    Related: 10 Ways to Declutter Without Going Minimalist

    3. Review your budget

    As with decluttering your schedule, take a look at your budget and consider areas that can be eliminated. Are there programs or tools you’re no longer using? Have you put off canceling the free trial on apps or subscriptions that can be better invested elsewhere or budgeted in another way?

    Additionally, auto-pay makes it easy to forget where we spend our money. Take stock of all business auto-payments and see if any can be deactivated. Also, consider other business expenses like online courses, educational or networking events and client meetings. Where do you receive the most value? Weigh each individually to determine if all the resources you’re currently using are still as helpful as they once were. If not, get rid of them and know they’ll always be there should you need them again.

    Related: 5 Ways to Build a Business Budget for Maximum Success

    4. Make a list of all the things you’re thankful for

    Gratitude is the free, quiet booster to success. Plus, it’s easy to obtain. While waiting for your morning coffee to brew or before you dive into answering emails, jot down three things you’re thankful for. Take extra time to reflect and expand your list during the holiday season. Creating a daily gratitude habit isn’t just something to make you feel warm and fuzzy; it can help you focus, increase efficiency and create an abundance mindset.

    Numerous studies illustrate the positive effects of gratitude on the brain. It changes the brain’s makeup and can help us feel more engaged and appreciative, leading to greater productivity, optimism and overall better mental health. Consider the benefits of what starting your day with gratitude could do for your outlook, especially compared to the frenzy we often find ourselves in first thing in the morning.

    Related: Cultivating Gratitude and Happiness Will Boost Your Business

    5. Take time for yourself

    There’s been a cultural shift over the past years from the hustle mentality to a state of self-care. However, for entrepreneurs, sometimes it’s not so easy to slow down. Many times there is no one to delegate work to, which means there’s a difficult balance to sustain a steady workload. Nevertheless, it’s always necessary to take time for yourself. It can seem overwhelming for some, so you’ll have to be intentional in how you want to use the time. Put it on the calendar. Make it a priority.

    Good physical and mental health are two things that are easy to take for granted until they start to fail us. When taking time for yourself, these areas should be at the top of the list. Plan it out, whether it’s a workout at the gym, a walk around the block or a few minutes for stretching and meditation.

    Putting it last on the list means it’s not likely to happen, and burnout could be around the corner. Add time for play and enjoyment into your weekly schedule as well. Essentially, time for yourself, planning or relaxing, must be part of your daily list of to-dos, and what better time to start than the holidays?

    [ad_2]

    Kelly Hyman

    Source link

  • 18 Pajama Sets for Your Best Beauty Sleep This Winter

    18 Pajama Sets for Your Best Beauty Sleep This Winter

    [ad_1]

    Typically unseen by the general public, pajamas may not be a top priority on your shopping list — but we’d argue they’re underrated.

    Wearing a matching set of pajamas to bed doesn’t exactly make you an adult, but it sure can make you feel like you have your life together. During winter’s shorter days and colder weather, I’ll take a bit of joy anywhere I can find it, even if it’s just putting on a cozy pair of PJs.

    With the holidays just around the corner, a pajama set also makes a great gift for hard-to-shop-for loved ones — it’s something they wouldn’t necessarily splurge on for themselves, but will appreciate nonetheless. And with so many fabrics, styles and colors to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding a pair they (or you) will love. Brands seem to be investing in the sleepwear category more than ever lately, from expanding their offerings to launching special collaborations (like Tekla and Jacquemus).

    [ad_2]

    Kylie Smith

    Source link