Tag: Self Improvement

This $70 App Aims to Help Entrepreneurs Fit Personal Growth into Their Daily Lives | Entrepreneur

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Up to 25% of business owners say they work more than 60 hours a week. While that doesn’t leave much time for personal growth, it doesn’t mean you have to stop learning or growing; You just have to make it fit into your busy schedule. Headway is an app that pulls actionable insights from well-known non-fiction books. Getting through a full book may take days or weeks, but you can work through a Headway insight in minutes. If you want to start putting growth back in your daily agenda, get a lifetime subscription to Headway Premium during the Spring Digital Blowout while it’s only $69.99.

While the life of an entrepreneur is pretty packed, it only takes 15 minutes to work through an insight from Headway. Start inserting personalized learning sessions throughout your day and learn new things without compromising your work or personal time. Summaries can be read or listened to in audio formats narrated by professional voice actors.

Headway insights are gathered from best-selling non-fiction books, but they do not replace the book itself. If you find an insight that you resonate with strongly, that might be a sign to read the book from which it came. You’ll also get personalized recommendations and relevant content for your areas of interest.

Join 15+ million users in turning personal growth into a habit with rewards. As you work through your daily insights, you can track your progress and collect achievements. Or, as a TechCrunch reviewer puts it, “Creating gamifying elements on the Headway app has partially met the need to study with excitement, not boredom.”

During the Spring Digital Blowout, you can get a Premium Lifetime Subscription to Headway for $69.99 (reg. $299) — a best-of-web price!

Prices subject to change.

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April 1, 2023
See How New Learning Opportunities Can Drive Employee Retention with This $50 Bundle | Entrepreneur

Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

If your business is struggling with employee retention, try opening up new avenues for professional development. In a recent survey of 400 employees spanning three generations, 70% said job-related training and development opportunities influenced their decision to stay with a company.

Training your employees on advanced skills may be labor and resource intensive. But it could be a manageable cost with a subscription to StackSkills Unlimited, which gives you unlimited access to 1,000+ skills courses for life. Through April 3, you can get a lifetime subscription for only $49.97.

StackSkills can offer your employees a chance to cultivate new skills that they could put back into the company. For example, if too much of the budget is going to outsourcing IT costs, a tech-savvy worker could enroll in any of the beginner and advanced IT courses and learn about coding, cybersecurity, network management, and more.

Courses are organized by category and instructor, and there’s much to choose from. Productivity courses are a chance for employees to refine their work processes. Marketing and branding courses could help you grow your business, and the entrepreneurship courses could be a good fit for someone with management potential.

Courses can be completed anytime, and users can track their progress as they learn. There are even offerings for leisure activities like music, art, and animation. The opportunity to control their growth trajectory could encourage your employees to stick with your business.

It’s rated 4.5 stars out of five on Trustpilot and PCMag wrote, “Lifetime access to StackSkills Unlimited empowers you to discover your potential.”

Grab a lifetime subscription to StackSkills Unlimited on sale for $49.97 (reg. $1,495) through April 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed.

Prices subject to change.

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March 25, 2023
Why Self-Reflection and Self-Awareness Are Vital Skills for Any Entrepreneur | Entrepreneur
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
As an entrepreneur, two of the most important personality traits you must possess are self-reflection and self-awareness. Self-reflection and self-awareness are vital because they help entrepreneurs identify their strengths and weaknesses, understand their emotions and make informed decisions.

With that, let’s explore why self-reflection and self-awareness are both necessary for entrepreneurs to lead their companies.

Related: How to Get Un-Stuck: 10 Key Questions for Self-Reflection

Why self-reflection and self-awareness are vital skills

To begin with, self-reflection is essential for entrepreneurs because it allows them to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Self-reflection is a process of introspection and self-analysis that helps entrepreneurs examine their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Through self-reflection, entrepreneurs can identify their areas of strength and weakness, which can help them make better decisions. For example, if an entrepreneur realizes that they struggle with public speaking, they can work on improving their public speaking skills to become a more effective leader.

On the other end of the spectrum, self-awareness is crucial for entrepreneurs because it helps them understand their emotions and how they affect their decision-making. Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand your emotions, thoughts and behaviors. It enables entrepreneurs to make informed decisions that align with their values, goals and vision for their company. For instance, if an entrepreneur is aware that they tend to make impulsive decisions when under stress, they can develop strategies to manage their emotions better, such as taking breaks or practicing mindfulness.

Entrepreneurs can lend to their growth mindset mentalities via self-reflection and self-awareness, which are essential for success. A growth mindset is the belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through hard work, dedication and perseverance. Entrepreneurs with a growth mindset are more likely to embrace challenges, learn from failure and persist in the face of adversity. They are also more open to feedback and willing to adapt to changing circumstances. Self-reflection and self-awareness can help entrepreneurs cultivate a growth mindset by encouraging them to reflect on their past experiences, learn from their mistakes and seek out opportunities for growth and learning.

These important personality traits can also help entrepreneurs build strong relationships with their team members, customers and stakeholders. Entrepreneurs who are self-aware are more likely to understand and empathize with the needs and perspectives of others. This can help them build trust and rapport with their team members, which can improve communication, collaboration and productivity. In fact, entrepreneurs who are self-aware are more likely to listen to feedback from customers and stakeholders and use that feedback to improve their products or services.

Entrepreneurs can also conquer burnout and lend to their mental well-being through self-reflection and self-awareness.

Running a company can be stressful, and entrepreneurs may face multiple challenges and demands on their time and energy. Self-reflection and self-awareness can help entrepreneurs manage their stress levels and prevent burnout. By being aware of their emotions and needs, entrepreneurs can identify when they need to take a break, seek support from others or practice self-care. This can help them maintain their physical and mental health, which is essential for long-term success.

Both self-reflection and self-awareness can help entrepreneurs lead with purpose and vision. Entrepreneurs who are self-aware are more likely to have a clear sense of their values, goals and vision for their company. This can help them make strategic decisions that align with their purpose and vision and communicate that purpose and vision to their team members, customers and stakeholders. When entrepreneurs lead with purpose and vision, they can inspire others to work towards a common goal and create a positive impact in their industry and society.

Related: 12 Self-Awareness Exercises That Fuel Success

How to become more self-aware through self-reflection

Entrepreneurs can develop self-reflection and self-awareness through various practices, such as journaling, meditation, seeking feedback and engaging in regular self-assessment. They can also work with coaches or mentors who can provide them with insights, guidance and support in their leadership journey.

Additionally, entrepreneurs can create a culture of self-reflection and self-awareness in their company by encouraging their team members to engage in these practices and providing them with resources and support.

Here are five ways entrepreneurs can become more self-aware through self-reflection:
1. Journaling: Writing down thoughts and feelings in a journal can help entrepreneurs gain insight into their emotions, beliefs and values. Journaling can also help entrepreneurs track their progress, identify patterns and set goals.
2. Meditation: Practicing mindfulness meditation can help entrepreneurs cultivate self-awareness by bringing their attention to the present moment, observing their thoughts and feelings without judgment and developing a non-reactive mindset.
3. Seeking feedback: Asking for feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors or coaches can help entrepreneurs gain an outside perspective on their strengths, weaknesses and blind spots. Feedback can also help entrepreneurs identify areas for improvement and set goals for personal and professional development.
4. Engaging in self-assessment practices: Taking time to reflect on one’s experiences, achievements and challenges can help entrepreneurs identify their values, strengths, weaknesses and areas for growth. Self-assessment can also help entrepreneurs develop a growth mindset and learn from their mistakes.
5. Practicing self-care: Prioritizing self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep and relaxation can help entrepreneurs manage their stress levels, improve their physical and mental health and increase their self-awareness. Self-care activities can also help entrepreneurs develop a more positive and resilient mindset, which is essential for effective leadership.
Related: The Best Entrepreneurs Are Experts at Self-Improvement. Here’s How to Master That Skill.

Leading with purpose and building a culture of helping others get to where they want to go, both professionally and personally, is a great way to not only reach your employees but retain them as well.

By cultivating self-reflection and self-awareness, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions, learn from their experiences and adapt to changing circumstances. This can ultimately help them build a resilient and successful company that makes a positive impact in their industries and on society.
Michael Stagno

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March 20, 2023
Child psychologist: The 6 most ‘extraordinary’ types of kids—and how parents can raise them to be successful

Every parent is capable of raising happy, healthy and emotionally grounded kids. But many struggle along the way.

In my two decades of experience as a child psychologist, I’ve found that when parents aren’t attuned to their child’s temperament and unique traits, they fail to honor and celebrate their kid’s authentic self.

There are six most extraordinary and gifted types of kids. Your child may be more of one than the others, or a mix of all. Knowing their type will strengthen your relationship with each other and help them understand themselves better.

1. The Anxious Exploder

Anxious Exploders are often fussy, irritable and get triggered by the slightest thing.

Their beauty is that they’re highly sensitive and porous. But this means they tend to absorb the anxiety around them. And what to do they do with all of it? They explode!

Parenting tip: Be grounded, firm and calm. If you become reactive, either in anger or anxiety, it can set off a tsunami of emotions.

Praise them for their abilities to process their environment, but teach them to create the solace they need: “When you feel nervous, close your eyes and repeat to yourself, ‘I am safe, I am home, and I am going to be okay.’”

2. The Hyperactive Explorer

Hyperactive Explorers can’t sit still and are and never where you last left them.

These kids are often labeled as “troublesome” by parents and teachers because they can be overwhelmingly active in their mind and body. But their superpower is that they are incredibly curious and engaged.

Parenting tip: Hyperactive Explorers need to be honored and not shamed for their passionate spirit.

Show them unconditional acceptance so that they can accept themselves in a world that may repeatedly shun them: “I admire you for your creativity and imagination. Your different ways of thinking can help you do amazing things.”

3. The Overpleaser

Overpleasers are like butter — soft and pliable, easy to mold and shape — and they are the perfect prey for parents who have a strong need for control.

They fill in gaps, take over chores, and get gold stars. But because they’re eager to help, they often overstep and take over parental responsibilities, becoming the “parentified” adult in the home.

Parenting tip: Honor and teach them how to protect their boundaries.

Remind them that their needs come first: “You are a giver, and you may encounter many who will keep taking from you. Remember that it’s okay to say ‘no.’”

4. The Dreamer-Recluse

Dreamer-Recluse kids tend to be shy and introverted, and can struggle with social and conversational skills.

You may often catch them staring into space, doodling in their notebook, or spending so much time alone that you wonder if they’re even in the house.

Parenting tip: Society may try to tell them they should be the opposite, that they should be more extroverted.

Help them feel secure and highlight their strengths: “Don’t let people tell you how to be. Remember, those who are able to be by themselves are strong people. I admire you just the way you are.”

5. The Rebel Nonconformist

Rebel Nonconformists have the will of an ox. They won’t comply until they’re convinced it’s something they wish to do.

I know how challenging these kids can be. My daughter, Maia, is a Rebel, and she has the type of confidence that makes her unafraid of authority.

Parenting tip: These kids need to feel respected for their determination.

Release control and judgment: “I love your ability to follow your own voice and not be influenced by popular opinions. However, don’t fight rules simply for the sake of fighting, or you will burn yourself out.”

6. The Happy-Go-Lucky

These kids are always laughing and in a good mood. They’re not fussy, demanding or bossy.

The only downside is that they can be too relaxed and seem unmotivated. As a result, some parents may perceive them as not being ambitious enough.

Parenting tip: What parents don’t realize is that Happy-Go-Lucky kids are actually the gurus of living in the present.

Celebrate their positive approach to the world: “You always bring such peace and joy into every situation. Preserve this beat, because it’s a lost rhythm that more of the world need to adopt.”

Dr. Shefali Tsabary, PhD, is a child psychologist and bestselling author of “The Parenting Map,” “The Conscious Parent,” and “The Awakened Family.” She received her PhD from Columbia University and is a wisdom teacher who integrates Eastern spirituality with Western psychology. An expert in family dynamics and relationships, she is also the founder of the Conscious Parenting Coaching Institute. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

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March 18, 2023
8 Ways to Take Advantage of the Extra Daylight | Entrepreneur

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Every year, the United States “springs forward,” setting clocks ahead by one hour in observance of daylight saving time (DST). Sure, you lose an hour of sleep, but it lets you align your waking hours with the additional daylight hours during the warmer months.

If you’re an entrepreneur, that extra hour can be a window of opportunity. With more daylight, you’ll have more opportunities to expand your skill set or build your dream.

Need a place to start? Here are eight things you can do with that extra hour to make yourself a better entrepreneur.

Related: If Running Your Business Feels Hard, You’re Doing it Right. Here’s Why

1. Exercise

It’s easy to let your self-care routine fall by the wayside during the winter. But longer, warmer days are practically an invitation to get out there and resume your exercise routine. Not only is exercise good for your physical health, but it’s also been shown to release endorphins that help alleviate stress.

Even a simple daily walk or light jog can offer surprising benefits. Additionally, some communities offer group activities like cycling or ultimate frisbee that provide a social outlet or networking opportunities.

2. Discover networking events

Relationships are essential for entrepreneurs looking to build their businesses. The partnerships you form within your community can help you increase brand awareness, generate new ideas or seize opportunities to work together for a common goal.

During the spring and summer, you may have access to outdoor networking activities in the area.

You can find such events by talking to other entrepreneurs or searching for networking events on sites like LinkedIn. They might include picnics, sporting events or community outreach projects that let you make an impact in your community.

Related: 4 Ways to Determine If Now Is the Right Time to Launch Your Business

3. Fuel your reading habit

Savvy entrepreneurs understand the value of a good book. Reading provides endless opportunities for self-improvement or success, and the latest books and publications can keep you informed about the best practices that affect your business or industry.

But even reading outside your immediate subject matter can make you a more well-rounded individual and train your brain to think differently about the world around you.

Many local libraries offer summer reading programs and book clubs that you can take advantage of, but you can also simply post up on the beach or in a lawn chair with a book or e-reader. And if you’re out walking or exercising, you might consider listening to an audiobook or podcast.

4. Pause for self-reflection

As much as the business world talks about data and analysis, surprisingly little attention is given to the process of reflection.

Self-reflection isn’t complicated, but it’s an opportunity to take stock of your internal motivations.

What are you truly passionate about? What do you hope to accomplish in the coming years? These are the kinds of questions you might ponder as you take your evening walk or lounge by the pool.

The answers to these questions can be good reminders of why you got into business in the first place and provide motivation when the going gets tough.

Related: How to Build Your Business Strategy in the Face of Uncertainty

5. Pursue learning opportunities

Learners make the best leaders. Along with consuming informative content, the summer might also present opportunities to participate in seminars, conferences or other educational opportunities that keep you engaged in your business or industry niche.

While it’s not hard to find webinars or other virtual events, the extra daylight might also provide opportunities for in-person learning events. The real estate industry, for example, tends to ramp up in the spring, which might give you a chance to network or take classes to sharpen your business skills.

6. Jumpstart your creative thinking

Some of the most gifted leaders are known for thinking outside the box. When the weather warms up, it’s also an opportunity to get out of the office! Exercise, leisure and travel all provide opportunities for learning and growth and can serve as a mental “reset,” allowing you to return to your work with a fresh outlook.

Not sure where to start? Ask yourself what’s one thing about your business you wish you could change. Then, start thinking about ways to answer that question.

As you travel, look at the ways other businesses are doing things. This can help you think about your business differently and may spark new ideas for change.

Related: 9 Simple Ways to Transform Your Morning Routine and Boost Productivity

7. Spend time with loved ones

Spending time with your friends or family won’t just make you a better entrepreneur; it’ll make you a better human being. Quality time with loved ones helps to combat stress and can keep you motivated when your business starts to feel burdensome.

If you’re a parent, spending time with your kids allows you to pass on valuable life lessons to the next generation. Sports, camping, a day at the beach — these activities can give you some much-needed R&R and help you strengthen your personal ties.

8. Cultivate gratitude

What are you thankful for? That’s not just a question to ask over your Thanksgiving turkey. Gratitude can keep you centered on what truly matters and remind you that some of the things that bring you the most joy have little to do with your entrepreneurial success.

Seeing nature in all her unrivaled splendor is a great example. Very few people go to the Grand Canyon and think, “I wish I were back at the office.”

As you exercise, travel or spend time with family, pause and reflect on the world around you. Take time to appreciate the little things and keep this newfound gratitude front of mind to stay motivated while working on your business.

Related: How to Wake Up Early

Reset more than just your clock

Warm weather and longer days mean opportunities to improve both yourself and your business. If you put these tips into practice, you’ll reset more than just your clock. You’ll also reset yourself, forming a new mindset that lets you greet each day with a sense of possibility.

So give yourself a break. You may find that these ideas give you a new sense of purpose and make you a better entrepreneur.

Related: How to Know When That Business Idea Is Good Enough to Pursue

John Boitnott

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March 12, 2023
How to Give a Presentation That Actually Works | Entrepreneur

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Michael Bay has plenty of talents. He’s an incredibly successful film director and producer, known for high-budget films that draw enormous audiences eager to see stuff explode. He is not, however, a gifted public speaker.

We know this because in 2014, Bay appeared at a Samsung press conference during the Consumer Electronics Show to promote the company’s new 15-inch curved TVs. Things went awry shortly after he was introduced: He stopped mid-sentence, explaining haltingly that the teleprompter was off. It was an understandable snafu, and Samsung exec Joe Stinziano tried to throw Bay a life preserver by asking him to describe how he comes up with cinematic ideas. The director struggled to answer without the teleprompter, pacing around and sighing with frustration. It was awkward, to put it mildly.

Stinziano tried one last time to get Bay to speak off the cuff, asking how a TV format changes the way viewers experienced his films. But it was too late: The four-time MTV Movie Award winner was flustered beyond the point of return. “Excuse me…I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” he muttered before spinning around and fleeing the stage.

What happened at that moment is every public speaker’s worst nightmare. Luckily for Bay, appearing at conferences isn’t his main gig, and minus a likely ding to his ego and potentially soured relations with Samsung, he walked away unscathed. Entrepreneurs can’t afford such catastrophic meltdowns, however.

Here’s how to make sure they never happen.

Related: Want to Give a Great Speech? Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes

Know your story

There’s a reason you’re the person giving a presentation: You have something important to say. Since you’re an expert on a topic, there’s no reason to read stiffly from a card or have a stilted presentation memorized word for word. These techniques are guaranteed to bore an audience, and fast, explains Bell + Ivy co-founder Zach Binder in a 2020 article in Forbes. Instead, he advises simply knowing your key points and being ready to adjust if the situation calls for it. In other words, do the opposite of what Bay did.

“Audiences want to be comfortable watching a presentation and want to connect with that person,” he writes. “The easiest way to make that happen is by being yourself.”

So, rather than composing an entire speech ahead of time, write out key concepts you want to hit, the practice — using them as a focus. Because, by leaving space for flexibility, it’s easier to adjust depending on the mood of the room. If people seem to be zoning out, engage the audience with a question or joke. Making eye contact and moving around the stage is also key for maintaining dynamic interaction — both much harder if you’re frozen in place trying to remember your lines.

Be straightforward

When you’re deep into an industry, it can be hard to divorce yourself from the jargon you know so well. But for the sake of the audience, you have to. Lengthy acronyms and dull tech speak aren’t the way to show off knowledge; more likely they will induce sleep among listeners. And like a lot of founders, I’ve been guilty of this myself, but after realizing that what I was doing simply wasn’t working, I made an effort to simplify what I was saying.

Not only does this keep things engaging for an audience, but it’s also a more effective way to show what you know. A room full of smart people can tell when someone is trying to hide behind jargon as a cover for a lack of deeper understanding.

Keeping talks as straightforward as possible is also wholeheartedly embraced by Maria Thimothy of Forbes‘ Young Entrepreneur Council. “The most important thing about a presentation,” she says, “is that it be easily understood. Keeping it simple allows you to control the flow… no matter which way it goes.”

Related: How to Dazzle Your Audience in the First 7 Seconds of Your Speech

Nuts, bolts, and presence

Some people, no matter how ingenious their ideas or how knowledgeable they are about their industry, are just not natural public speakers. That’s okay because it’s a skill that can be learned.

Nerves present quite the Catch-22: You’re nervous you’ll mess up, but being so is often why you mess up. Annoying, right? The best way to ease those nerves is to practice. Yes, I know I just wrote that it’s best not to memorize a presentation, but if the idea of speaking off the cuff strikes icy terror into your heart, it may be the best route — at least until you get more comfortable.

A presentation, of course, is more than simply words. This is where developing a stage presence comes in. Writing for Harvard Business Review in 2013, TED Curator Chris Anderson says that the most common issue in unpracticed speakers is moving their bodies too much, including swaying from side to side or otherwise compulsively shifting.

“People do this naturally when they’re nervous, but it’s distracting and makes the speaker seem weak,” he explains. “Simply getting a person to keep his or her lower body motionless can dramatically improve stage presence.”

Eye contact is also important. Anderson recommends finding five or six friendly-looking faces in different parts of an audience, then making eye contact with them while you speak.

“That is incredibly powerful, and will do more than anything else to help your talk land,” he writes. “Even if you don’t have time to prepare fully and have to read from a script, looking up and making eye contact will make a huge difference.”

Finally, you don’t need to regard nerves as an enemy. Just recognize them and take some simple ameliorative steps: Taking a deep breath before going onstage, and remembering to breathe throughout, is one of the best.

Related: 3 Expert-Backed Strategies for Blowing People Away With Your First Impression

Talking in front of people, whether you’re pitching to a group of investors or giving a speech, is part of every entrepreneur’s life. Becoming comfortable with the process will make both you and your business come off as polished, professional and competent. It’s abundantly worth your while to get good at it.

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March 6, 2023
Entrepreneur | Train Your Employees in ASL for Business with This Presidents’ Day Deal

Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

Nearly one million people in the U.S. and Canada use American Sign Language (ASL) as their primary language. If you want your business to meet the needs of any customer or client, it is wise to have someone on staff who can use ASL.

Instead of hiring a teacher to train one of your employees to sign, the All-in-One American Sign Language Bundle could have a student using conversational and professional sign language in short order, and it’s only $19.99 for a short while longer.

Whether the employee you choose to learn ASL is a beginner or an advanced learner, this bundle offers them a place to start. It has two beginner courses for standard everyday ASL and ASL in a business setting. Learning both may be useful if you want to prepare for customers and clients who require an ASL interpreter.

The standard beginner course discusses the history of deaf education and introduces users to the ASL alphabet and simple vocabulary. ASL for business is geared toward professionals and teaches business-related terminology, standard technology, office terms, greetings, and salutations.

Expand on the lessons in either beginner course by learning more about colors and nouns, animal vocabulary, signing a complete narrative, and more for 29 total hours of content. Users who practice could cultivate a diverse and versatile ASL vocabulary and the means to sign any word using Fingerspelling. This bundle also boasts 5/5 stars online.

American Sign Language is common enough in North America that it may be helpful to have an interpreter on hand. From February 17 through February 20 at 11:59 p.m. PT, the All-in-One American Sign Language bundle is on sale for $19.99 (reg. $618). No coupon needed.

Prices subject to change.

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February 19, 2023
Entrepreneur | Business Owners Can Have Work-Life Balance With These 5 Tips
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
A universal reality for business professionals is the need to balance personal and professional lives, striving to find that ever-elusive work-life balance. This is true regardless of industry or position.

One significant element of that stress and pressure is the ability, or lack thereof, to manage time effectively. Many will admit to feeling like there is never enough time in life. The days and weeks are insufficient when faced with the mounting list of tasks and responsibilities we navigate daily.

Accomplishing these goals on time and in good form necessitates tracking immediate tasks, monitoring long-term projects and, most importantly, maximizing the finite business hours within which we operate.

Discovering how we are best equipped to manage our time effectively is something we can all strive for, a process that is ultimately unique to each of us. To see the creation of a structured, strategic approach to achieving our professional and personal goals is to see time management in action.

Related: 15 Time Management Tips for Achieving Your Goals

The relationship between time management and mental health

It is helpful to recognize the connection between time management and mental health. The two are intertwined, affecting our ability to achieve a positive work-life balance and our ability as professionals to lead effectively.

As Deanna Ritchie, editor-in-chief at Calendar, wrote, “Time management and anxiety are cyclical, where poor time management can cause anxiety and high anxiety can result in unmet deadlines.”

Those who struggle with time management can experience heightened health concerns, including stress and anxiety, mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and insufficient or disturbed sleep.

Conversely, as an individual’s mental health progresses, there’s a natural correlation to their quality of life improving.

Related: 5 Reasons Why You Need to Learn Time Management for Your Business

Finding the ways that work for you to improve time management skills

To succeed, we must all manage our time effectively — this is an idiom we can all agree on. But how, specifically, does one define time management?

In truth, time management will vary for everyone. Every job, every position, regardless of industry, requires achieving certain goals. How that is best accomplished is dependent on the uniqueness of the individual. While the minutia may differ, there are proven strategies that can help guide our ability to effectively manage our time to benefit our mental health.
1. Benefits of breaks
2. Tales of tomorrow
3. Plan of attack
4. Mind and body
5. Death by distractions
Benefits of breaks

It may seem like an insignificant action to prioritize, but the benefits of frequent, brief breaks to refresh and refocus our brains and vision can’t be understated.

You may choose to implement the Pomodoro technique, which calls for a 25/5 routine: work focus for 25 minutes and take a five-minute break. Or you might find the research-backed 52/17 technique popular in 2014 best suited for you: for every 52 minutes of work, take 17 minutes off.

What matters is that you discover the pattern that works best for your mind and integrate it into your work life.

Related: 3 Proven Strategies on Taking Breaks That Will Help You Become More Productive

Tales of tomorrow, tasks for today

Whether it’s easier for you to start each morning mapping out what needs to be accomplished during the day ahead, or your brain prefers to write out the specifics of what the next day holds, what matters most is having a game plan to guide you throughout your days. Consider investing in a to-do list app or notebook to make it easier to create, edit and add to your list.

Plan of attack

Finding the calendar app that best suits your needs will go a long way in streamlining your work life, bringing structure and clarity while delivering ease of use. Researching the options on the market will help make the decision a simpler one. Beyond staples like Google, Outlook and Apple, there are plenty of possibilities, including Calendly, Any.do, Calendar and Fantastical.

If your day-to-day, weekly or monthly obligations include extensive meetings and appointments, quality scheduling apps are available to smooth out an often arduous process.

Mind and body

Any effort to improve our ability to manage each day will go nowhere if our physical health is lacking. The mind can only accomplish as much as the body allows it to, so it’s critical to value our sleep, monitor our nutrition and exercise regularly.
- Adopting healthy sleep habits requires intentionality, but experiencing consistent, quality rest can be transformative. According to the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, a regular sleep schedule (Sunday through Saturday) maintains the body’s internal clock, streamlining its ability to both fall asleep and wake up more easily.
- The health benefits of exercise are well known, but new research has highlighted the value of short, five to 10-minute workouts. If you struggle to fit exercise into your days, consider finding simple, hassle-free options to try.
- Healthy eating doesn’t have to be overly complicated! A bit of research can yield many simple, straightforward tips, from portion control, flavor hacks and eating the rainbow, to weekly meal prep and the power of the slow cooker.
Death by distractions

Three words: Turn off notifications. From social media updates to news alerts, text messages and app alerts, our phones are a constant distraction — and they are only one part of a bigger picture of daily distractions, of which we all have unique challenges. Whether you choose to utilize Apple’s Focus Mode or the Android version, a variety of tools are available that can help you start to mitigate death by distractions.

Related: How Are Time Management and Mental Health Related?

Work-life balance benefits from time management skills, mental health focus

Our ability to accomplish what needs to be taken care of in our professional lives depends heavily on the effort and energy we invest into mastering the art of time management. Similarly, taking steps to assess and improve one’s mental health goes a long way toward creating and sustaining a positive work-life balance.
Summit Ghimire

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February 14, 2023
Get a Lifetime Subscription to This Self-Improvement App for More Than $200 Off

Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

Employees who receive extra professional development training tend to stay with a company longer. Though employee retention is important, finding the kind of mentorship and training that builds loyalty may be difficult. Even with a tight schedule, you might be able to make personal and professional growth fit into your employee’s day-to-day. Headway is a mobile app that could make improvement fun and accessible for your employees, and a lifetime subscription is just $59. That’s the best price online.

A few 15-minute bite-sized, personalized learning sessions could be easy to manage. Headway pulls meaningful insights from best-selling nonfiction books. Those learning sessions also contain actionable tips. While these summaries may not replace the experience of reading a full book, the Headway app gives you key ideas and insights from the world’s bestsellers. Watch, listen, read — choose any format and grow on the go!

Users can access 15-minute summaries by reading or listening. You could even start meetings by going over exciting insights from Headway. Workers could double down on productivity and listen to Headway insights while performing some of their less complicated tasks.

Boasting 4.5/5 stars on the App Store, Headway lets you earn achievements just by logging in every day and meeting your learning goals. Offering an extra incentive like a prize for the longest streak could motivate your employees to strive for more than just meeting their goals.

You may not have the time to mentor each of your promising employees, but they can do the work themselves with a little guidance from Headway. For a limited time, get a Headway Premium Lifetime Subscription for the best price online, just $59 (reg. $299).

Prices subject to change.

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February 12, 2023
An 85-year Harvard study found the No. 1 thing that makes us happy in life: It helps us ‘live longer’
In 1938, Harvard researchers embarked on a decades-long study to find out: What makes us happy in life?

The researchers gathered health records from 724 participants from all over the world and asked detailed questions about their lives at two-year intervals.

Contrary to what you might think, it’s not career achievement, money, exercise, or a healthy diet. The most consistent finding we’ve learned through 85 years of study is: Positive relationships keep us happier, healthier, and help us live longer. Period.

The No. 1 key to a happy life: ‘Social fitness’

Relationships affect us physically. Ever notice the invigoration you feel when you believe someone has really understood you during a good conversation? Or a lack of sleep during a period of romantic strife?

To make sure your relationships are healthy and balanced, it’s important to practice “social fitness.”

We tend to think that once we establish friendships and intimate relationships, they will take care of themselves. But our social life is a living system, and it needs exercise.

Marloes De Vries for CNBC Make It

Social fitness requires taking stock of our relationships, and being honest with ourselves about where we’re devoting our time and whether we are tending to the connections that help us thrive.

How to take stock of your relationships

Humans are social creatures. Each of us as individuals cannot provide everything we need for ourselves. We need others to interact with and to help us.

In our relational lives, there are seven keystones of support:

Safety and security: Who would you call if you woke up scared in the middle of the night? Who would you turn to in a moment of crisis?

Learning and growth: Who encourages you to try new things, to take chances, to pursue your life’s goals?

Emotional closeness and confiding: Who knows everything (or most things) about you? Who can you call on when you’re feeling low and be honest with about how you’re feeling?

Identity affirmation and shared experience: Is there someone in your life who has shared many experiences with you and who helps you strengthen your sense of who you are?

Romantic intimacy: Do you feel satisfied with the amount of romantic intimacy in your life?

Help (both informational and practical): Who do you turn to if you need some expertise or help solving a practical problem (e.g., planting a tree, fixing your WiFi connection).

Fun and relaxation: Who makes you laugh? Who do you call to see a movie or go on a road trip with who makes you feel connected and at ease?

Below you’ll find a table arranged around the seven keystones. The first column is for the relationships you think have the greatest impact on you.

Place a plus (+) symbol in the appropriate columns if a relationship seems to add to that type of support in your life, and a minus (-) symbol if a relationship lacks that type of support.

Remember, it’s okay if not all — or even most — relationships offer you all these types of support.

Think of this exercise like an X-ray — a tool that helps you see below the surface of your social universe. Not all of these types of support will feel important to you, but consider which of them do, and ask yourself if you’re getting enough support in those areas.

Looking at the gaps on the chart, you might realize that you have plenty of people you have fun with, but no one to confide in. Or maybe you only have one person you go to for help, or that a person you take for granted actually makes you feel safe and secure.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to the people in your life. Whether it’s a thoughtful question or a moment of devoted attention, it’s never too late to deepen the connections that matter to you.

Robert Waldinger, MD, is a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, and director of Psychodynamic Therapy at Massachusetts General Hospital. He is a practicing psychiatrist and also a Zen master and author of “The Good Life.” Follow Robert on Twitter @robertwaldinger.

Marc Shulz, PhD, is the associate director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, and a practicing therapist with postdoctoral training in health and clinical psychology at Harvard Medical School. He is also the author of “The Good Life.”

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February 10, 2023
10 Things Every Working Woman Should Do This Year

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Self-care has become an all-encompassing term that has strayed from the importance of everyday commodities that keep us in good health and spirits. Though pampering and “treat yourself” moments still have value, here are ten ways to invest in yourself to produce long-lasting, positive results.

Related: 8 Self-Care Tips From Wildly Successful Entrepreneurs

1. Put money into a 401(k)

It’s never too early (or too late!) to start saving for the future. Depending on your employment status, there are different retirement savings accounts. 401(k)s are the most common since these are employer-sponsored and often come with an employer match. However, freelancers also have options, such as a SEP-IRA or a high-yield savings account, to put away extra, tax-free dollars for retirement.

2. Schedule a health checkup

Self-care first includes taking care of your physical health. It’s easy to discredit regular checkups when you’re feeling healthy, but make this the year to get your blood work done. It creates a baseline for your health to identify areas needing improvement or extra attention.

Also, choose areas in your life where you can make small changes. Improving your health doesn’t always mean a drastic overhaul; it may be as simple as drinking more water or adding an extra 30 minutes of exercise to your day.

Related: 3 Key Tips for Optimizing Your Physical Health as an Entrepreneur

3. Review health insurance benefits

Many people with health insurance aren’t sure exactly what it does and doesn’t cover. If you’re unsure, talk with your HR representative or your health insurance provider to get an overview of deductibles, co-payments and other supplemental benefits you may not be aware of. Then, decide if the health care plan makes sense for your current lifestyle.

Are you paying for benefits you don’t use, or do you need additional benefits that aren’t covered? Selecting the right plan will help ensure you have what you need without paying the extra expense for anything you don’t.

4. Ignite your curiosity

Maintaining healthy cognitive functions through new pursuits gives a boost to the brain. Get curious and find what speaks to you. This can be anything from exploring local museums, embarking on different hiking trails, learning a new language or reading more books.

There’s no limit to what you can do, and these activities can ignite more creativity and motivation in your work. While it may be helpful to look to others for inspiration, make them enjoyable so you’ll want to make them a regular occurrence.

5. Prioritize mental health

Mental health has been at the forefront of people’s lives over the past few years, as many have experienced burnout. We often equate productivity with a value that drives us to go beyond our means and leads to anxiety, stress and depression. Take note of your everyday stressors and see how to reduce or eliminate them. Then, replace them with relaxing outlets that allow you to recharge.

There are various ways to prioritize mental health, from practicing positive self-talk to meditation to scheduling an electronics-free day. You may have to try different solutions before you find one that fits.

Related: 5 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health as an Entrepreneur

6. Implement good sleep habits

Consistent sleep is one of the essential factors of good health but one that is often overlooked. For many, it can be challenging to wind down from the workday. Therefore, you must “train” your body to prepare for sleep by getting into a nighttime routine.

Create a sanctuary for yourself to improve your sleep habits. Enjoy a soothing cup of herbal tea, perform a skincare routine, and snuggle in with a good book rather than scrolling through your phone. Additionally, ensure your bedroom is dark and cool for ideal sleep comfort and turn on soothing sounds if it helps lull you to sleep.

7. Try something new

What have you wanted to try but have always held back? Maybe it’s public speaking or contributing to a blog. Whatever “new” has been on your to-do, make a plan, schedule it on your calendar and go for it. It’s common to hold back from these activities due to fear of the unknown or failure, but trying new things helps create confidence and can be the catalyst you need to push you to the next level.

8. Learn to set boundaries

Boundary setting is crucial to relationships yet can be difficult to master. It doesn’t always involve simply saying no to people’s requests. Instead, it requires protecting your own values when people violate them. Setting boundaries may mean spending less time with certain people, removing yourself from toxic situations, or declining invites to events that don’t improve your life. Explore areas where boundaries will help you grow, and keep in mind growth itself is a work in progress.

Related: How to Set Boundaries to Build Thriving Relationships

9. Spend quality time alone

Learning how to enjoy time spent alone is a valuable gift. We are inundated by a false sense of connection through the internet, which often makes us feel lonelier than ever. Then, we overschedule our calendars to make up for human connections, only to feel drained afterward. Slow it down and plan a few solo dates a month to see how it feels to be truly present with yourself.

For those who aren’t used to spending quality time alone, it can feel awkward and uncomfortable initially, but these stem from your own perceptions. Take in a matinee, sit in a coffee shop and read, or enjoy a concert or event you’ve wanted to attend. Alone time has been linked to improved stress management and greater life satisfaction, so it’s worth trying to give yourself more time.

Related: Turns Out, Those Who Like Being Alone Can Be More Creative

10. Get active

Getting active can take on several directions. It can be physical, emotional or spiritual. The point is to engage with people and pursuits that feed your soul. Whether volunteering within your community, setting yourself an exercise goal, or learning more about personal development, there are endless ways to get active and invest in yourself this year.

Kelly Hyman

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February 4, 2023
I’m a psychology expert in Finland, the No. 1 happiest country in the world—here are 3 things we never do

For five years in a row, Finland has ranked No. 1 as the happiest country in the world, according to the World Happiness Report.

In 2022’s report, people in 156 countries were asked to “value their lives today on a 0 to 10 scale, with the worst possible life as a 0.” It also looks at factors that contribute to social support, life expectancy, generosity and absence of corruption.

As a Finnish philosopher and psychology researcher who studies the fundamentals of happiness, I’m often asked: What exactly makes people in Finland so exceptionally satisfied with their lives?

To maintain a high quality of life, here are three things we never do:

1. We don’t compare ourselves to our neighbors.

There’s a famous line by a Finnish poet: “Kell’ onni on, se onnen kätkeköön.” Roughly translated, it means: Don’t compare or brag about your happiness.

Finns really take this to heart, especially when it comes to material things and overt displays of wealth.

I once ran into one of the wealthiest men in Finland. He was pushing his toddler in a stroller towards the tram station. He could have bought himself an expensive car or hire a driver, but he opted for public transportation.

That’s what success looks like in Finland: just like everyone else.

Happiness tip: Focus more on what makes you happy and less on looking successful. The first step to true happiness is to set your own standards, instead of comparing yourself to others.

2. We don’t overlook the benefits of nature.

According to a 2021 survey, 87% of Finns feel that nature is important to them because it provides them with peace of mind, energy and relaxation.

In Finland, employees are entitled to four weeks of summer holiday. Many of us use that time to hit the countryside and immerse ourselves in nature. The fewer amenities, even to the point of no electricity or running water in the house, the better.

A lot of Finnish cities are also densely built, which means that many people have access to nature at their doorsteps. I live next to Helsinki Central Park, where I go on regular walks.

Happiness tip: Spending time in nature increases our vitality, well-being and a gives us a sense of personal growth. Find ways to add some greenery to your life, even if it’s just buying a few plants for your home.

3. We don’t break the community circle of trust.

Research shows that the higher the levels of trust within a country, the happier its citizens are.

A “lost wallet” experiment in 2022 tested the honesty of citizens by dropping 192 wallets in 16 cities around the world. In Helsinki, 11 out of 12 wallets were returned to the owner.

Finnish people tend to trust each other and value honesty. If you forget your laptop in a library or lost your phone on the train, you can be quite confident you’ll get it back.

Kids also often take a public bus home from school and play outside without supervision.

Happiness tip: Think about how you can show up for your community. How can you create more trust? How can you support policies that build upon that trust? Small acts like opening doors for strangers or giving up a seat on the train makes a difference, too.

Frank Martela, PhD, is a philosopher and psychology researcher who studies the fundamentals of happiness. He is also a lecturer at Aalto University in Finland and the author of “A Wonderful Life: Insights on Finding a Meaningful Existence.” Follow him on Twitter.

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January 5, 2023
‘I work just 5 hours a week’: A 39-year-old who makes $160,000/month in passive income shares his best business advice
When starting a business, it’s sometimes hard to know what to prioritize, and going at it alone can be overwhelming. But there are strategies you can use to avoid common pitfalls.

My mission is to teach people how to earn money from their passions. It’s what I did: I went from living on food stamps to building two online businesses.

Today, I run a music blog, The Recording Revolution, and a entrepreneurship coaching company. I work just five hours a week from my home office and make $160,000 a month in passive income.

Here’s what I tell my 3,000 clients to think about in the first 30 days of starting a business:

1. Be clear about how you want to spend your time.

Many new business owners I meet know only one thing: how much money they want to make.

While that’s a great starting point, it’s incomplete. Your business should serve your life, not the other way around. So make sure it aligns with your hopes, dreams and goals.

To get clear about the type of business and life you want, ask three questions:

What does a perfect day look like to you? Don’t just think about your typical workday. Consider other life activities you want to fit into your day, like exercising or spending time with family.

How many hours do you want to work a week? You don’t have to follow the standard 40-hour workweek. Knowing exactly how many hours you want to work will help you better prioritize tasks.

How important is time off? Some people don’t care much about taking time off, as long as they love what they do. Others value extended time off. In order to have money flowing in when you’re not working, you’ll need to have some sort of passive income stream.

2. Simplify your business model.

When I started my music education business, people told me I needed to test my sales pages, throw launch parties and pre-record a bunch of ads in order to grow.

Rather than stretching myself thin doing things that didn’t make sense to me, I kept it simple and focused on three things: creating weekly content for my blog and YouTube channel, growing my email list from that audience, and promoting the paid products I created to that list.

If you’re just starting out, develop content around your expertise to grow an audience. It doesn’t have to be perfect. You can iterate as you go and design new products based on what your customers want more of.

3. Cut out unnecessary daily tasks.

Identify what daily activities will help you earn more. Don’t waste time or burn yourself out focusing on unimportant tasks.

It might feel good to get to inbox zero or change the color of the buttons on your website, especially in the early days where you want to feel like you’ve achieved a goal. But neither of those things will make you money.

Before you start a new task, ask yourself three questions:

What’s the expected outcome for doing this task?

Does it lead to more money?

Can I point to a direct link between doing that task and earning income?

What’s the cost of doing this instead of something else?

4. Prioritize having fun.

People can tell if you’re just doing something for the money or if you actually love what you do. That authenticity will connect you deeper to your customers and it will sustain you for the long haul.

You don’t want to burn out because you spent all your time doing things that weren’t meaningful to you.

I always give my students this framework when they are beginning their entrepreneur journey: Build a business around something you see yourself doing and enjoying for the next 10 years.

Graham Cochrane is founder of The Recording Revolution and author of “How to Get Paid for What You Know.” He has helped more than 3,000 people launch and improve their own businesses. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter.

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January 1, 2023
Self-made millionaire says 90% of your success depends on this single skill: ‘Young people are terrible at it’
Before I retired early at 35, I spent 14 years working in technology. In my senior management positions, I interviewed more than 100 candidates. A surprising amount of them didn’t even make it to the second round.

But being good at interviews isn’t just about landing jobs. Knowing how to develop a rapport with people is crucial in so many facets of your professional life, such as navigating relationships, problem-solving, getting clients, public speaking, and negotiating salaries and raises.

Based on my experience, 90% of your early success boils down to your ability nail job interviews. Unfortunately, most young people are terrible at it.

Here are my five rules for getting it right:

1. There is no such thing as being overdressed.

I’ve seen people show up to interviews in a t-shirt and jeans while I was wearing a buttoned-down shirt. Even if they were qualified in other ways, it showed poor judgement and a lack of consideration.

I’ve never thought less of a candidate because they were overdressed. If you’re unsure how professional your attire should be, ask your HR contact about the office dress code.

Bringing a notebook and pen will also help you look prepared and organized.

2. Be honest about where you can improve.

When job interviewers ask about your biggest weaknesses, what they’re really measuring is your level of self-awareness and problem-solving skills.

Stock picks and investing trends from CNBC Pro:

The best way to answer is to be honest about where you struggle and what you’ve done so far to improve.

For example: “I tend to rush through projects and sometimes miss the small details, so I’m starting to move at a steadier pace and ask other team members for input.”

3. Emphasize unique problem-solving skills.

Two interview questions I always asked:

Tell me about a time when you solved a common problem using an unconventional solution.

Describe a time when you failed. How did you manage the situation?

A lot of people got stuck on these because they didn’t want to talk about their mistakes.

But I wasn’t worried about them getting things wrong; failure helps us get better. I was more interested in how they assessed failure and recovered from it, and how they would do the same on my team.

4. Always ask at least two questions.

Never pass on the chance to ask questions at the end of an interview. I’ve hired people because they asked insightful questions rather than bailing at the earliest opportunity.

The best questions show that you want to be immediately valuable to the team and that you have a growth mindset.

A few examples:

What’s one challenge you regularly face in your job?

What are the most pressing projects that need attention?

Will there be opportunities for stretch assignments where I can learn and use new skills?

Does the company offer training programs to employees?

5. Bring engaging stories with you.

One of the best indications that someone was a right fit for my team was their ability to tell a story.

What are your most memorable work experiences? Maybe it’s an unexpected incident that helped you land you a client. Or how you used humor to save your company from embarrassment. The best stories are engaging, unforgettable, and spark some sort of emotion.

Having a good story also makes the interviewing process more interesting and enjoyable for everyone in the room.

Steve Adcock is a personal finance and career expert who blogs about how to achieve success and financial independence. A former software developer, he retired early at the age of 35. Follow Steve on Twitter @SteveOnSpeed.

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December 23, 2022
3 Ways You Can Harness The Benefits of Your Flat Organization for Growth

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Organizational structures have been a hot topic of debate in the business world recently, due in no small part to the events of the last few years. Many companies simply lacked the agility to respond to all the disruption. However, others were stuck in place as conflicting leadership decisions pulled them in different directions.

These companies’ chains of command got so bogged down that decisions began to slow and communication experienced delays. According to MIT Sloan Management Review, almost 40% of workers felt that the level of bureaucracy at their companies was especially problematic during the first six months of the pandemic. Employees also noted the stability of priorities (36%) and amount of red tape (34%) as hindrances to employers’ abilities to respond to pandemic-related changes. Ironically, these impediments are the unintended consequence of successful growth.

If you think about it, a company’s organizational structure is akin to a building without elevators. A tall structure has many floors. Information, decisions and transactions flow from one floor to the next, moving through each level until they reach the front line. Should a customer-facing employee have a suggestion or resource request or require approval, the flow must then move in the opposite direction.

Conversely, a flat organization has very few floors — in some cases, it has only one. It doesn’t take much effort to get information from one end of the building to another. That is, a flat organizational structure simply means an organization that has few — if any — levels of management. Many startups fall under this model, relying heavily on their founders but maintaining open communication. The challenge is to be intentional about the organization’s structure as it grows.

Related: 3 Ways That Your Actions Today Will Shape Your Company’s Legacy

Preserving the benefits of a flat organizational structure as you grow

Successful entrepreneurs focus on business, product or service development, sales and marketing. Most often, a founder has a clear vision and personal values. Yet, as the company grows, the organization’s structure tends to develop independently from the vision and values. Here’s how to be intentional in maintaining the culture that made the enterprise successful as it grows — without building in costly bureaucracy:

1. Take stock of your personal trust orientation

Many companies throw around the buzzword “flexibility” in reference to employee benefits, but few understand what team members want. Research from Harvard Business Review reveals that what employees really need is flexibility by way of autonomy. However, the study found that the flexibility they want is contingent on their ability to exercise it how they see fit. In other words, employees need to feel trusted.

Entrepreneurs often have tunnel vision. They accurately see themselves as the brains behind the success, and the business becomes their “baby.” I’ve seen this firsthand as a consultant. It can be hard to trust others with your creation. Yet, it is absolutely essential for successful growth. So, as you build your organizational structure, assess your personal trust orientation as it relates to your leadership role. If your belief in employees’ capabilities is low, then you might encounter the cultural struggles of a large company with a tall structure. On the other hand, high trust levels result in flatter organizations.

Related: 3 Tips to Build Trust and Drive Business Transformation

2. Clearly understand and avoid bureaucracy

Maintaining quick, clear and effective communication is key to nurturing a flat organizational structure. Airbnb executives had this same realization when it revamped its hiring process and general core values over the last few years. Its leadership team found that investing in trustworthy employees and removing rules instead of adding them allowed for more communication and more freedom to move inside the organization.

The main takeaway from Airbnb’s transformation? Replace policies with principles. You have to remember that the rules and policies you create do not exist in a vacuum. New company rules interact with every other system in the organization. By replacing rule-making with principle-founding, you can move from a restrictive, bureaucratic space to one that’s open, honest and straightforward.

3. Distribute power as the company grows

In the post-coronavirus landscape, companies must realize the need to adapt and broaden their hierarchical structures. Imagine a multimillion-dollar organization with checks that all must be signed by the same person. That structure would lead to delays and frustrations. Hierarchical models worked well back in the Industrial Revolution, but in today’s corporate landscape, it’s vital to nurture self-management.

This means making an intentional and purposeful shift to elevate your employees to a position where they have power and where you invite them to actively voice their ideas. In self-managing organizations, power is distributed instead of delegated. Post-pandemic, there’s no room for delays due to hierarchies. Most leaders think that they have to have all the answers, but your employees want to help with solutions. This new era calls for leveraging your entire team’s collective strengths instead of leaning solely on your own.

Related: 7 Components for Successfully Designing Your Organization

One of the main drivers of any organizational structure is your people. Even if the business is your baby, you must keep people at the forefront of your mind as you progress. Today, success relies more on the collective intelligence of the whole. Recognize this fact before making any organizational decisions.

Sue Bingham

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November 23, 2022
How to Stop Feeling Like An Imposter and Find Your True Self

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You’re reading this article because you feel like an imposter. You worry that you don’t belong or that people will find out that you’re really not as good at this thing as they think you are. It’s normal to feel this way — and there are things we can do about it.

You’re only an imposter if you keep telling yourself you are.

If you’ve ever passed off a group of people as your friends or told someone that they look great in those pants when they actually look like they’re wearing a clown suit, then it’s time to realize that everyone feels this way at some point. Even the most confident and skilled people have moments where doubt creeps in and makes them question their abilities.

Unfortunately, many of us allow these feelings to become overwhelming. We start believing that there’s something wrong with us because we don’t always feel confident about ourselves or our abilities, and we suppress them by telling ourselves how amazing we are without recognizing what triggers these feelings in the first place. It leads us down a path where we constantly try to boost our confidence through positive affirmations but never really address the issue itself: that sometimes things don’t go the way we want them to because life isn’t perfect for anyone (not even for Beyonce).

Related: Imposter Syndrome Will Kill Your Business

Recognize that everyone feels this way at some point.

Having doubts and insecurities is normal, and no one is perfect. Everyone has felt like an imposter at some point in their lives, even those who are successful and confident now. I was so concerned with imposter syndrome that through it — paired with deteriorating mental health — I actually became one. Recognizing that everyone experiences inadequacies will help you understand that feeling insecure about your work and skills is okay, especially when you’re new to something or taking on a new role or responsibility.

Related: 3 Powerful Strategies for Discovering Your Life’s Work

Accept that you don’t always have to feel confident.

You don’t have to feel confident in every situation. There’s nothing wrong with feeling nervous, and there’s no point in trying to beat yourself up over it. Your feelings are valid no matter what to the contrary is said. However, if you’re constantly anxious about the possibility of failure and self-doubt is holding you back from doing things that could make your life better. It might be worth speaking with a therapist or coach who can help you sort through those fears so that they don’t take over everything else.

But for now: accept your feelings even when they’re hard to swallow — and know that there are other people out there who feel just as insecure as you do (if not more). You’ll never find out how much more incredible life can be until you stop comparing yourself with others and focus on getting better at whatever makes you happy.

Remind yourself of your achievements.

Acknowledge your achievements. It’s important to celebrate the little things in life and remind yourself of the bigger ones. When you accomplish something significant, whether getting a new job or moving into a new apartment, take time to acknowledge your success by celebrating with friends and family or just by patting yourself on the back.

If you don’t feel like you have any achievements under your belt yet, don’t worry. You don’t need to wait until one comes along before you start working towards some goals for yourself. And know that setting goals can help make those achievements happen sooner than later — once they do happen, remember to celebrate them.

Even if the achievement doesn’t seem like much from an outside perspective (like when someone asks how much money was raised at a charity event), celebrating it is still important because doing so helps build confidence in yourself as well as other areas of life where imposter syndrome may be holding you back from reaching even greater heights down the road.

Related: 3 Ways Imposter Syndrome Can Affect Even Confident Entrepreneurs

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness.

Impostor syndrome stems from a fear that you’re going to be found out as “not as good” as everyone thinks, so you often feel like you can’t share your weaknesses with anyone because it’ll make them realize that you’re not good enough. But the truth is that we all have flaws, and it’s okay to accept our limitations and ask for help when needed. There’s nothing more empowering than admitting that there are things outside your control — and being honest about what those things are.

By being open and honest about your weaknesses, others will respect and admire your honesty instead of finding fault with it. They’ll also see how much work has gone into becoming better at something (because, let’s face it — nobody was born an expert.) By sharing this information with others, they’ll be able to offer insight on how they overcame similar obstacles in their lives.

One of the most important things to remember when you feel like an imposter is that most of the things we worry about don’t actually matter as much as we think they do. It’s easy to get caught up in our own thoughts and let them spiral into something bigger than they are, but taking a step back from what’s causing your anxiety can help it seem more manageable.

The next time you find yourself worrying about something, try to take a moment and ask yourself: would this matter if I never spoke about it? Would it still be there if I didn’t talk about it? If the answer is no, try not to waste too much energy on it.

Related: How Asking for Help Can Be the Difference Between Success and Shutting Down

Christopher Massimine

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November 11, 2022
Jane Fonda: Nonprofit’s work ‘far more important’ after Roe

ATLANTA — Jane Fonda says the work of the Georgia-based nonprofit organization she founded to prevent teenage pregnancies has become “far more important” in the months since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to abortion it guaranteed to women in the United States.

The activist and Oscar winner has been an outspoken critic of the court’s decision, previously calling it “unconscionable.”

While a post-Roe world will be harder on girls because they are the ones who would have to carry a baby, the work to fight teen pregnancy must also focus on adolescent boys, said Fonda, who was in Atlanta for a fundraiser Thursday to celebrate the 27th anniversary of the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential.

“We have to help our boys understand that they don’t have to get a girl pregnant to be men, that being a real man means taking care of yourself, respecting your body and the body of your partner,” Fonda told The Associated Press. “Things are much, much harder for boys and girls now and, so, teaching them skills around their reproductive health, how to stay healthy, how to stay pregnancy-free, how to say no, how to have agency over their body, these things are more important than ever.”

Fonda, 84, founded the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention in 1995 when she lived in Atlanta and when Georgia had the highest teenage birth rate in the United States.

In 2012, the organization changed its name and expanded its mission beyond teenage pregnancy prevention to include nutrition and physical activity. The group says its programs now reach more than 60,000 young people every year.

“We have to educate them about how their bodies work so that they will know how to protect themselves,” Fonda said. “We have to help young people see that they have a future that will be productive, that they can work for – towards, that they can reach towards – and getting in trouble when they’re a teenager and having a baby when you’re very young will make reaching for that future that much harder.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the birth rate for 15- to 19-year-olds in the United States in 2020 was down 8% from the previous year and down 75% from its peak in 1991.

Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana have the highest teenage birth rates in the U.S. Birth rates also remain higher among Native American, Hispanic and Black teenagers.

Fonda served as GCAPP’s chair until she moved from Atlanta to Los Angeles in 2010.

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Follow Alex Sanz on Twitter at @AlexSanz.

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November 9, 2022
3 Easy Ways to Gain Confidence
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
As inflation rises, financial confidence declines. According to a recent New York Life survey, 62% of Americans are financially confident, down from 69% in January. Given the current period of high inflation, Americans are faced with more financial uncertainty than ever before. But how can we combat this?

“Instead of worrying about what you cannot control, shift your energy to what you can create.” – Roy T Bennett.

This quote is easier to read than follow! However, in the spirit of regaining power in an economic market that can leave us feeling powerless, here are three great steps that can orient us toward a greater sense of personal and financial confidence:
1. Make efficient decisions
2. Follow through with a realistic plan
3. Have the willpower to take control
As an investor, you cannot control the stock market or the rising gas prices. But you are in the driver’s seat with your self-awareness, self-assurance and self-determination. Confidence is about acceptance and belief in your strengths, skills and abilities. It is not innate; it can be grown and refined over time.

Here are three guiding attributes that are foundational to confidence. Building insight into these concepts can empower you to strive for financial freedom and help you thrive in all aspects of your life.

1. Self-awareness

Personal

Setbacks and obstacles are why we stop in our tracks, as we often focus on the negative outcomes which stunt us. To feel growth, we need to see and believe in our abilities to succeed and progress.

One technique to help attain self-awareness is journaling. I know journaling feels like such an unrealistic task, but it doesn’t have to be an elaborate process if you don’t want it to be. It can be as simple as reaching for your phone to take notes when you see, hear or think about something that moves and inspires you. It really can be as easy as taking a screenshot of something that elicits deep emotion for you or jotting down a memory or reflection. The goal is to connect with thoughts and emotions within us that we would typically move on from. When we journal, we give them space to develop. I keep a notes tab on my phone, a physical journal on my nightstand and a photo folder on my phone that has stored quotes, photos or videos that inspire confidence and motivation in me.

Another technique can be as simple as setting a time every morning, even just one minute, to be reflective and set an intention for yourself for the day. There is no wrong way to start. You have to give yourself the chance to create this growth by taking proactive steps toward building your self-awareness.

Related: Why It’s Time to Dust Off That Journal

Financial

As you gather more information on a topic, you acquire more knowledge. Still, when it comes to Financial Self-Awareness (FSA), it is a little less about financial literacy in general and more about your financial situation. Many people can recite personal finance books or the ratios and formulas for excellent investment advice, but if you don’t know what your net worth is today, how can you make decisions about your future?

Take some time to jot down your past successes and failures with money; this will give you clarity on your “why.” Once you have reviewed and developed a deeper understanding of your financial history, you can move forward with making the necessary decisions to reach your present and future goals. This clarity and intentionality will assist you in building more confidence.

2. Self-assurance

Personal

This level of self-esteem is not built around knowing you are always right; it’s about being able to get up after you fall and still move forward. We all have strengths, so leverage them and ensure you are implementing them daily. We also all have moments of doubt, and we can move forward by harnessing the moments of assurance from revisiting our accomplishments. When was your last moment of success? Think of anything from gathering the courage to have a difficult conversation with someone in your life to finishing a painting, a book or a degree. Accomplishments come in all sizes, so celebrate them and often remind yourself of your successes.

Financial

Historically, money has been a taboo subject, especially for women. I grew up thinking it was rude or inappropriate to talk about money. As I got older, I (thankfully) stopped following that rule, which made me look for more information and continue to learn and understand it. Most people don’t talk about it enough, which is one of the reasons why most people have poor money management skills. This then turns into shame and embarrassment, which can keep us from being honest about money and seeking the right help. The more you talk about money, the more comfortable you’ll feel; consistency is essential. Having a financial plan might sound like a hassle at first, but it will save you from multiple headaches in the future. A financial plan gives you a goal that you can track and ultimately increase your economic confidence.

Related: 12 Ways to Boost Your Confidence in 2022

3. Self-determination

Personal

Determination is usually tied to actions like “I am determined to learn another language, ” which requires steps to accomplish. This is precisely what self-determination is: building a set of skills to reach those goals.

What skills do you need to build on most? Here are a few to think about: Decision-making, problem-solving, goal-setting and self-advocacy. Psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan developed a theory of motivation that suggested that people tend to be driven by a need to grow and gain fulfillment. Building life skills that escalate your knowledge allows for the independence you seek, and also increased relationships and interactions with others will lead to high self-determination.

Related: How Resilience Led Me to Success

Financial

Take control of your financial journey by allowing yourself flexibility. Confidence is about understanding your strengths and weaknesses, which change over time. It is okay not to be an expert in all things finance; there are experts in the field who outsource help from others. Stay on top of your finances using financial tools like apps and calendar reminders.

Looking to save more money? Use a budgeting app like Mint and schedule a time to revisit your budget regularly. A visual representation of your goals and progress will help you stay on track and motivated.

According to a National Bureau of Economic Research study, nearly 80% of women struggle with low self-esteem and shy away from self-advocacy at work. This means four in five women may be held back in their career advancement by a lack of confidence and visibility. Let’s change these statistics and help each other increase our confidence. Remember that applying these steps takes practice. Start with what feels most comfortable and move on to the next. Becoming financially and personally confident will enable you to trust your abilities to manage your wealth and life fruitfully. Once you deepen your self-awareness, self-assurance and self-determination, it will become phenomenally easier to make efficient decisions, follow them with a plan of action and move with conviction. While inflation creates uncertainty for many, your financial confidence need not be wavered by outside factors.
Vanessa N. Martinez

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October 14, 2022