Category Archives for Family and Personal

Empowering Women in Business: Insights from Running a Women-Focused Therapy Practice

The challenges women encounter in the business world are starting to become widely acknowledged. However, even with significant strides made toward workplace gender equality, there’s still a substantial amount of progress to be made. Resolving these issues is gradual, requiring continuous evaluation and business adjustments to encourage and maintain progress.

But as women continue to navigate through the corporate world, getting past the numerous obstacles and breaking through the proverbial “glass ceiling” takes a unified effort. Women supporting other women in business is a crucial element of this effort, and one way to do so is by creating spaces and opportunities for women to thrive.

To do this effectively, actively looking for and incorporating diverse perspectives is key. Empowerment comes in many forms – from providing mentorship and leadership opportunities to creating inclusive work environments where everyone feels valued and respected. But getting there requires intentional and conscious effort.

Why Female Empowerment is So Important in Business

Diversity and inclusion are essential for both ethical reasons and overall business success. However, the persistent problem of limited gender diversity still remains, as women are still underrepresented in various industries, leading to several challenges.

Persistent Gender Bias

Despite strides made towards equality, persistent gender bias remains a major barrier for many women in business. This bias can come in various forms – from unconscious bias affecting hiring decisions, promotion opportunities, and wage disparities to deeply ingrained societal expectations about gender roles. Empowering women in business involves challenging and dismantling these biases and establishing an environment where merit and ability are valued over stereotypes and assumptions.

Widespread Underrepresentation

Women continue to be significantly underrepresented in many sectors, especially in leadership roles. The 2023 Global Gender Gap Report indicates a 10% reduction in the share of women holding senior leadership positions, which now stands at just 32.2%. This persistent gap hinders businesses from gaining from a diverse range of perspectives and abilities, and also curtails career progression opportunities for women.

Lack of Diversity and Inclusion

Workplace diversity and inclusion shortages can hamper creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving. Research indicates that teams with diverse members tend to produce more innovative concepts and make smarter decisions. This is why empowering women and ensuring their representation at all levels contributes to a more diverse and inclusive business environment, driving better outcomes and providing additional benefits to organizations.

Harassment and Workplace Safety

Creating a safe workplace is crucial for empowering women in the business sector. Women often face obstacles like sexual harassment and discrimination, which result in hostile work environments and hinder their professional advancement. It’s imperative for businesses to focus on establishing safe and respectful workspaces for everyone. Empowering women also involves providing them with the necessary tools and support to confront harassment and champion their own safety and rights.

The Benefits of Empowering Women in Business

Supporting women’s empowerment in business benefits the women involved and the organizations they are part of. Some key advantages include:

Improved Productivity and Creativity

Empowered women typically display greater motivation, engagement, and efficiency in their roles. Their unique insights and experiences contribute to an atmosphere that encourages creativity and innovative thinking. Research also shows that companies with gender diversity are generally more successful than less diverse companies, further emphasizing the significance of cultivating diverse workforces.

Better Decision Making

Teams with a balanced mix of men and women are known to make better decisions. Two Harvard studies involving 412 participants found that in crisis situations, where smart decision-making is crucial, female leaders were more often trusted to make the right choices. This indicates that diverse teams offer a wider array of experiences and viewpoints and, most importantly, trust, leading to more unified and effective teams.

Attracting Top Talent

Organizations that give priority to gender equality and the empowerment of women are more likely to attract better talent. Modern job seekers highly value diversity and inclusion, often preferring employers who showcase these principles.

Enhanced Company Culture and Image

Promoting women’s empowerment leads to a company culture that values respect, inclusivity, and equal opportunity. This boosts morale and productivity internally, positively influencing the company’s external reputation. Companies known for supporting women’s empowerment are often regarded as progressive, ethical, and attractive to customers, clients, and potential new hires.

Effective Strategies for Empowering Women in Business

Creating a supportive environment for women in business involves implementing various strategies and policies, such as:

Establishing Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs are a powerful tool for empowering women in business. These initiatives connect individuals who are newer to their careers with experienced professionals, offering guidance and career advice. This approach aids in developing skills and offers a vital source of support and encouragement.

An innovative aspect of this strategy is the formation of “mentor circles.” In these groups, multiple mentees are paired with a single mentor. This fosters peer learning and enables women to expand their professional networks while also gaining from the mentor’s experience and insight.

Another benefit of mentorship programs is that they allow women to learn from successful female leaders, which can be particularly valuable in male-dominated industries. When inspired by others who have achieved success, it encourages women to believe they can reach their career goals and that the challenges they face are not insurmountable.

Organizing Skill Development Sessions

A key strategy in empowering women in business is to hold skill development workshops specifically designed for them. These sessions can include a variety of subjects, such as leadership, negotiation, financial management, and digital marketing. Equipping women with these important skills prepares them for taking on more significant roles and responsibilities in business.

One way to make these skill development workshops even more effective is by incorporating interactive activities and role-playing exercises. This not only allows for a more engaging learning experience but also helps build confidence and practical application of the skills being taught.

Hosting Women-focused Networking Events

Networking is essential for both professional growth and personal development. Hosting events tailored for women offers them a unique platform to connect with peers, uncover new opportunities, and share ideas. These gatherings also create a supportive environment where women can discuss their specific challenges in the business world and collaborate on finding solutions.

Encouraging Collaborative Marketing Efforts

Collaborative marketing is an effective strategy that can significantly broaden a business’s reach and growth potential. This approach benefits all involved as it allows access to each other’s customer bases, creating mutually advantageous outcomes. It also encourages innovation through the merging of diverse ideas and viewpoints.

This strategy is especially valuable for women-led businesses. Female entrepreneurs often encounter specific challenges, like limited resources and restricted access to broader networks. Collaborative marketing offers a solution to these issues, helping them to connect with a larger audience and enhance their market visibility.

Offering Leadership Development Programs

Empowering women in business also involves offering them chances to enhance their leadership abilities. Leadership development programs aim to equip women with the skills and knowledge necessary to advance their careers and prepare for leadership roles.

These programs cover a range of leadership skills, including strategic thinking, decision-making, team management, and effective communication. The goal is to boost women’s confidence and acumen to take on more significant organizational responsibilities.

Implementing Flexible Work Policies

Today’s working environments are changing quickly, and flexible work policies are a big part of this change. Many companies understand that their employees have lives and responsibilities outside of work. So, they’re offering options like flexible hours and the ability to work from home. These policies show that being productive at work doesn’t mean sticking to a strict 9-to-5 schedule. Instead, it’s about letting employees choose the best times and ways to work that fit their own lives.

Flexible work policies can profoundly impact women’s career advancement. Traditional work structures often pose significant obstacles for women, especially those with caregiving responsibilities. By providing flexibility, companies can enable women to continue pursuing their career goals without having to sacrifice their personal responsibilities.

Advancing Women into Leadership Roles

Empowering women to take on leadership roles is crucial to dismantling the glass ceiling and transforming organizational cultures. Companies should actively promote qualified women into leadership positions, demonstrating their commitment to gender equality and diversity. This involves recognizing women’s contributions and creating opportunities for them to grow and advance within the organization.

Elevating women to leadership positions communicates a strong message across the organization. It demonstrates that women’s abilities and contributions are appreciated and have the same chances for success. This can motivate other women in the company to aim for leadership roles, resulting in a chain reaction that can change the company’s culture.

Advocating for Supportive Workplace Policies

Creating an inclusive and fair workplace requires championing policies that support equality. These policies should focus on promoting gender parity and eradicating all forms of discrimination.

A key area of concern is addressing pay equity. Although there have been notable improvements, the gender pay gap still exists in numerous industries. It’s important for companies to guarantee that women receive equitable pay, matching what their male colleagues earn for similar job roles and responsibilities.

Another important policy to consider is comprehensive parental leave. Traditionally, maternity leave has been the focus, but it’s crucial to recognize that parenting is a shared responsibility. Therefore, companies should offer substantial parental leave for both mothers and fathers. This supports women by not penalizing them for starting a family and encourages a more balanced distribution of child-rearing responsibilities.

Supporting Work-Life Balance

It’s very important to balance work with personal life today. Companies can really make a difference by creating ways for employees to manage their personal responsibilities along with their work. This is especially beneficial for women, who often have to juggle home duties and their careers.

By offering services like childcare at the office, contributing to the cost of mental health services such as trauma therapy or anxiety therapy, and offering flexible working hours for family care, companies can make life easier for their female employees. This support allows them to concentrate more on work without worrying about their responsibilities at home. As a result, they’re likely to be more satisfied with their jobs, perform better, and feel a stronger commitment to their employer.

Addressing and Educating on Unconscious Bias

Unconscious bias is a hidden issue in many workplaces, influencing interactions, hiring, and promotions. Often occurring without our awareness, these biases can create unfair conditions, particularly affecting women and other frequently marginalized groups. Educating staff about unconscious bias is essential for creating a genuinely fair and inclusive workplace.

The initial step to combat unconscious bias is recognizing it. Companies should conduct regular workshops to help staff identify these biases and understand how they may manifest in the workplace. These workshops can use real-life scenarios and interactive activities to show employees how they might unknowingly exhibit biases in their behavior and decisions. Learning about these biases empowers employees to modify their perspectives and actions, contributing to a more equitable and positive work environment for everyone.

Training programs are also a key part of the solution. These programs should equip employees with practical strategies to counteract their biases. For instance, they might introduce decision-making tools that help eliminate bias from the hiring process or teach techniques for giving unbiased feedback. The goal is to empower employees to challenge their biases and make more objective, fair decisions.

Start Creating an Inclusive Workplace Today

Building an inclusive workplace is an ongoing initiative that requires continuous effort and dedication from every team member. By implementing the strategies discussed, companies can create an environment where every employee feels appreciated and supported regardless of their background or identity. This approach improves and diversifies the workplace and contributes to the company’s overall success and growth. 

Author Bio:

Dr. Hannah Yang: Visionary and healthcare entrepreneur by passion, Licensed Psychologist by training, Dr. Hannah Yang loves creating new possibilities in the world of mental health and wellness. Dr. Yang established Balanced Awakening in 2015 as a niche psychotherapy practice for women. As Balanced Awakening flourishes in Chicago, and soon Miami, she also loves to tap into her passion for design and Feng Shui to create fabulous environments for herself, her team, and clients.

 

How to rebuild trust following cheating & heal your relationships

Trust takes years and years to build. It can also be broken in seconds and take forever to repair. Understanding how to rebuild trust after cheating is a good idea if you or your partner have cheated.

Every relationship is built on trust. You will feel betrayed, hurt, and angry if you discover that your partner has cheated. It is difficult to comprehend that the person who you loved unconditionally has now broken your heart. It is sometimes difficult to say goodbye even after learning that your partner cheated.

You might be interested in learning how to repair your relationship and restore trust if you have cheated on your partner. We’ll be talking about ways to repair your relationship if you cheat on your partner.

Can you rebuild trust after cheating?

Building trust is possible, but it takes patience and time. It requires both partners to be committed to rebuilding trust in their relationship.

Infidelity does not have to mean the end. Not all cheating has to lead to a split or divorce. Sometimes, trust can be restored and a relationship can grow stronger. It is possible to have a stronger relationship if one realizes they are at fault and is willing to do everything right.

If the cheating partner feels guilty or is asking forgiveness from their partner, the first thing they need to do is end the affair. They should do everything they can to earn their trust and prove that the affair will never happen again.

Cheating is a serious problem in a relationship. The partners should work together to heal the relationship. The betrayer should regain their balance, allow themselves to make mistakes, heal and give space. However, the person being betrayed must be patient and have the courage and inner strength to do so. While it might seem difficult to manage, it is definitely possible.

Tips to Rebuild Trust after Cheating and Heal Your Relationship

It can be difficult for a couple to move on after an episode. However, there is there are many ways to do so. It takes a little adjustment and understanding to rebuild trust. Here are some tips to help you feel more optimistic about the future.

1. Get rid of all ties with your fling

Your first step is to cut all ties and be resentful to your partner. Show your partner that you have ended the affair if you want them to understand that you are trying to repair things. Your first step in gaining your partner’s trust is to end an affair.

This is particularly important for those trying to regain their trust after emotional cheating. It wasn’t really about sexual pleasure, but communication was what made that dynamic thrive. You must end communication with your partner to restore trust. Your partner won’t be able to take you seriously if they don’t stop talking.

Once your partner recognizes that the threat is gone he/she should feel a sense of relief and begin to think about you, what you have done, and your marriage. This is the best way to regain trust in your spouse.

2. Be accountable for your actions

Cheaters sometimes resort to playing the blame games when they are caught cheating. The blame game does not justify your actions. It just drives your partner away. No matter the reason, your partner was the cheater, not you.

It allows you to be accountable to your partner and let them know that you are acknowledging your error, that you accept it, and that you will work to correct it. It shows that your partner is willing to accept responsibility instead of blaming another.

First, admitting that you have created is a step towards regaining trust. Next, plan for how you are going to move forward. Once your partner realizes that you are willing to accept responsibility for your actions and take it seriously, planning can be a possibility.

Tell your partner everything that happened, including the date and time. Tell your partner how you feel about the situation and how you can rebuild trust. If you own up to your error, your partner may be open to the possibility of giving you another chance.

3. You can let your partner vent it all

You might notice that your partner is unable or unwilling to react to news of the affair. You might find that your partner doesn’t respond to such a big blow. This could lead to them suppressing their feelings until it becomes too late. Talk to your partner, and let them get rid of all those stored-up emotions.

You might find yourself saying something that hurts your feelings if you let someone who was cheated on vent. While it may not be fair for them to use them, you should not take it personally or become defensive.

It can be a step in the right direction to regain trust after cheating. Giving someone space to vent is a way to make them feel safer. You can also help by being more supportive and less defensive. A person will heal naturally if they feel heard.

No matter whether you’re trying to regain trust in your boyfriend or your girlfriend, it is crucial to make your partner feel heard. Understanding your partner’s feelings and the harm it has done to your marriage is essential. Only when you listen to your partner will you begin to understand their struggles.

4. Become as transparent as possible

Tell your partner whether you’re texting your colleague or going out with a sister. Remain on time when your partner expects you. Don’t let doubts creep back in. You should let your partner know when you run into someone. To ensure that your partner understands your efforts to restore the relationship, you must be transparent.

Transparency is about being transparent and showing a responsible attitude towards regaining trust after cheating. Although it may feel like an invasion of privacy, it’s only temporary. Let your partner have some fun and don’t hate them if you look at them with suspicious eyes because they texted a colleague at seven o’clock in the evening.

5. Slow down

It is not easy to rebuild trust in someone. It takes baby steps, making small changes one at a while. You can’t expect your partner immediately to forgive you for your extramarital affair.

It is unfair to pressure your partner to answer you in a few days. It can backfire in many cases. If someone has been cheated, they will see that there isn’t enough space and may take a few steps back. This could have many negative consequences. It’s important to take your time, this is not something you should rush.

Your partner is in a vulnerable position. Even the smallest mistake can cause them to withdraw from your relationship. This is something you need to accept. Allow them to feel their emotions. Allow your partner to feel the security and comfort he/she needs. Your partner will return to you sooner or later because of your love.

6. Clear and open communication

Conversations should be open and honest once both parties have reached an agreement to leave the past behind and move forward together. Was there a reason for the affair? How can you avoid repeating such situations?

These details must be clarified before you make a fresh start. Honesty and open communication will build trust with your faithful partner. It is also possible to discuss setting boundaries in the relationship.

Infidelity is a matter of communication. It is crucial to improve communication between the partners. It allows both partners to discuss the issue and begin to rebuild their marriage.

7. Honesty is a great policy

Telling your partner all about your secret sexcapades will help you win your ex back, no matter how hard it seems. In the worst cases, your past can bring you back. Regaining trust after cheating is difficult if your partner finds out about it from another source.

If you want to regain trust in yourself after lying, it is important that you are honest with yourself. You have to admit that you made mistakes and then forgive yourself. Resentment and regret towards yourself can only make the task of rebuilding a relationship more difficult.

Talking to your partner is essential, especially when you are trying to restore trust after an emotional cheating incident. You must not let anything go unspoken. While it might seem difficult to discuss some of the things that you have done in the past, being truthful is the only way to move forward.

8. You can reconnect both emotionally as well as physically.

It is essential to make contact with your partner once again in order for you both to feel a kind of bond and rekindle the relationship you shared before you were hurt. You can show your partner affection by showing love and support. It will make you feel loved and appreciated, as well as help to ease your insecurity and strengthen your relationship. It is crucial to rekindle that lost love.

You can physically connect with your partner to help you trigger your partner’s emotions. You must be open to your partner’s mistakes, allow them space and have patience when attempting to re-connect with them. Both partners must agree on the reasons why they want to continue their relationship.

Infidelity can lead to a loss of physical intimacy. It’s important for both partners to have patience and realize that this is only temporary. Counseling can be extremely beneficial and a therapist may help you to restore intimacy.

It doesn’t matter if you are trying to rebuild trust with your boyfriend, girlfriend, or lover. You just need to be patient with any setbacks.

9. Refresh your mind.

You might have had too many issues in your relationship, and this led to you looking for a solution. This could have caused the affair. You now know where you stand, and you want to rebuild trust. Instead of focusing on the problems, address them and work together to build trust.

It is important to start over and avoid making the same mistakes as before the affair. You should avoid repeating them. You can now put your focus on your marriage and be a maturer person. Both of you are aware of the mistakes. To fix the problem, you must focus on it. Then, try to start again.

10. Counseling for relationships is a good idea

Couples can become so involved in their own problems that they are unable to listen to their partner and overlook their views. A professional can help you and your partner focus on the “us” rather than your individual problems.

Couples therapy is a great option for couples who are having difficulty communicating. The help of a trained professional can make a significant difference in helping couples see things differently.

A professional who doesn’t remind your partner of you or your infidelity would make it more likely for them to listen. You can find a professional counselor who will help you through these difficult times.

Wrapping Up:

Trust and love are the foundations of a relationship. It can damage a relationship if one of the partners violates trust or cheats on the other. If the partner admits that they made a mistake and makes amends, it may be worth trying again. It takes time to build trust. They need to be patient and put in a lot of effort. Do not be afraid to ask for help if you have doubts about rebuilding trust after cheating. Instead, start slowly and communicate clearly. Accept the situation and apologize. Be open to sharing your responsibilities. Although things might not be the same as before, they can improve slowly and your relationship will likely strengthen over time.

To learn and practice empathy, contact Marriage counseling for pre-marital coaching or marriage mentoring programs. Or if you still feel that something is wrong then you can easily contact any detective agency in Delhi or across India to get them to investigate without any delay.

How To Be Happy & Satisfied with Life After Divorce

Just like millions of other people all over the world, you will also be traumatized when your marriage comes to an end. However, it will help you tremendously, if you know the steps to take that will show you how to be happy after divorce, such as the following tips suggested by the family solicitors in Sydney:

Consider getting help from a professional

You will probably go through emotional trauma when your marriage has ended. Accept it and see a counselor to help you come to terms with these feelings. Trained counselors and therapists can help you to deal with your feelings and identify a suitable treatment to help you move forward. Significant trauma can lead to PTSD so should be addressed as soon as possible. In fact, CFAH conducted a research study that shows 3 in every 50 American adults will have gone through PTSD at some point in their life, so you are very much not alone in this and there is help out there. 

If you are struggling through the legal side of a divorce, you should also get in contact with an expert family law attorney as they have the expertise to support you throughout the entire process. Beyond this, if your divorce involves children or an adulterous spouse, know that you can always Hire Bond Rees for expert private investigation solutions to ensure the safety of your family and to help you collect evidence that will support your case in court.

Build a support network

You will have days where the sadness that followed the divorce is almost unbearable. Instead of trying to deal with your grief on your own, speak to your family and friends about your feelings. They care about you and will no doubt give you all the support you need during these difficult times.

Be honest with yourself as to why your marriage failed

The one thing that you must do to become happier after your divorce, is to be 100% honest as to the reasons for your marriage coming apart at the seams. This will give you closure, instead of the constant “if only” that could prevent you from moving on with your life.

Be careful of the strategies you use 

There are people who resort to using drugs and alcohol to block out the bad feelings they have about their failed marriages. Then there are those who immediately jump into a new and unfulfilling relationship to reassure themselves that they are not the one made the mistakes to cause the divorce. These strategies are not only unhealthy but are almost guaranteed to prevent you from being happy in the future.

Keep busy with a new hobby

Remember, your time is your own now. Instead of spending it doing things for your spouse, you are now able to do things that make you happy! You’re free to try out new experiences that you’ve always dreamt of doing. Take up skydiving, learn to crochet, plant a vegetable garden, try living off the grid, or take a gourmet cooking class.

Focus on your own needs

Now you have all the time in the world to focus on yourself and the things you want and need in life. If you feel like going out, then do it. If you feel like staying in and reading all day, then do that too. You don’t have to feel selfish about anything you do from now on, to heal yourself after your divorce.

Stay healthy

Maintain healthy eating habits and exercise on a regular basis. By doing this, you will be keeping your body in excellent condition, look and feel great, and help to prevent illness and depression.

Choose to be happy

Divorce might give you negative feelings, but in the end, it is up to you entirely, to decide on how long you are going to ride the pity train or make the choice to get out from under the duvet and be a happier person.

To summarize

While all the above steps will help you to overcome the trauma after your divorce, it’s the first one that is extremely important! Make an appointment with family law experts for post-divorce counselling.

Why You need to Bank on a Proficient Family Lawyer for Marriage and Divorce?

You probably want to have a happy marriage. Most people living in Perth, Australia may even agree with you. After all, during your wedding vows, you promise to stay with your spouse through sickness and health. However, in reality, you may find it difficult to live your better half. Even after making numerous compromises, you may realise that you are incompatible with him/her. In such a case, you have to take the inevitable step. This is never an easy decision for you to make. This is the reason why you need to hire a proficient family lawyer. Only this expert can propose the right course of action for you to take.

Can hiring a proficient family lawyer make a difference in your divorce case?

Go through a divorce is never an easy task for any individual. No one expects you to be any different. There are so many issues you need to handle when your case goes to court. These include alimony, child custody, a division of property andvisitation rights.You have a thorough understanding of the law, prepare the necessary paperwork and arrange documents. Otherwise, all this can prove to be a tall order. A slight misinterpretation of any legal jargon is enough to jeopardise. It is the last thing you want. This is where a proficient family lawyer can help you out. Legal professionals in the state point out the following 3 important benefits of hiring such a specialist:

1. Impartiality

Go through a marriage break-up is a very sensitive issue for most people. They experience very strong emotions which cloud their judgement. Prominent Family Law Perth specialists say this is why they can’t represent themselves in court.This why they need to hire the services ofa proficient legal expert. Only this professional can look at the facts in a logically and impartial manner.He/she can suggest the best course of action for them to take. This may include offering them ways to patch up their differences. It is always a better option than settling for a divorce.

2. Counselling

This may come as a surprise to you. Proficient family lawyers spend a lot of time listening to their clients. They help these individuals resolve conflicting issues with their spouse. This may be a time-consuming and frustrating affair. However, it givesparties the satisfaction they were able to explore every avenue. Only then do they arrive at their final decision.Opting to dissolve their marriage is always the last option.

3. Experience with courtroom procedures

You got to remember an important fact. Different states in Australia have their procedures for filing divorce cases in court. The statutory guidelines applicable in one region may differ from another. The proficient family lawyer you hire for the purpose will be aware of such issues. He/she will have the necessary experience, skills and knowledge of dealing with them.

Having to go through a divorce can be a very painful experience for you. You’ll get the proper guidance, support and help of a proficient family lawyer during this ordeal. You need to look at the above 3 important advantages to know this is true. It a decision you won’t regret making.

Before You Cohabit: Let’s Talk Logistics, Legalities, and Finances

3.3 million households in the UK consist of cohabiting couples based on the Office of National Statistics. Cohabitation is something that has been historically controversial especially because of religious reasons and societal expectations. Yet it is now one of the fastest growing household types as more couples are moving in together for different reasons like cutting costs or taking things “to the next step”. It goes without saying that moving in with a romantic partner is a big deal and should warrant consideration especially when you are not just factoring feelings into the mix. 

Cohabiting Logistics

A lot of couples who decide to move in together can get swept away with the high of taking their relationship to the next level. They end up forgetting that they need to approach this with both feet firmly planted on the ground. Logistics plays a huge part when it comes to deciding where the couple is going to live. Potential living situations can get pretty complicated when each person has their own flat or home. Not everyone is willing to give up the space that they have worked to maintain themselves so opening up your space can be a daunting undertaking. Not to mention that it is something that involves a significant amount of planning.

It’s a conversation that you and your significant other will have to tackle early on. It is best to figure out who is moving in with whom or if getting specialised housing is necessary. Think about how the move will affect your commutes to work and if you need to sell or donate any possessions to make space for joint belongings. Consider what to do about re-routing mail to your new place. Talking about these points and many more will help give both of you a stronger idea of the logistics involved with moving in together. Strong communication will also lessen the likelihood of a cohabitation breakdown as found by University College London.

Legal Ramifications

It seems that two-thirds of cohabiting couples in the UK erroneously believe in the existence of common-law marriage as found through a survey by Resolution. Despite having a lengthy or fruitful cohabitation, the couple does not have the same rights as a legally married couple would have. Each person must be aware of their rights before they enter into a cohabiting situation. This is particularly significant when one moves into the home of another. Even if the one who moved in helps to pay the mortgage, they will have no legal claim to it.

It is ideal to explore the legalities of your decision before you go through with it. For example, you can see if drawing up a cohabitation agreement before moving in is an option. Having a frank discussion about your legal expectations about sharing a mortgage or buying things for the shared home is crucial. If you are going to rent a property from a private landlord, it is vital to clarify whose name will be on the lease. Try to see if it is possible to jointly sign on a lease so you both share equal responsibility and thus share equal rights to the rental.

Never forget that the contract with the landlord will have legal ramifications if either of you breaches it or terminates it offhand because of a breakup. Let’s say you spend several unmarried decades with each other and one of you passes. Unless there is a document that says you stand to inherit, you will have no legal rights to it. It would be wise to consult with a solicitor before moving in together so you’ll know what you’re entitled to.

Financial Smarts

Disagreements about money are one of the common roots of breakups in couples both married and unmarried. You can even say that things are harder for unmarried couples precisely because they are mostly unprotected by the law. When you move in with someone, you ultimately agree to shoulder your partner emotionally, psychologically, and – yes – financially. That is, of course, unless you both have a drawn up contract that protects your individual financial interests.

Money matters often involve finding out who pays for what expense in the household. There are those that take a percentile approach toward dividing the bills. There are those that consider the earning power of each person. Only then do they pick which financial responsibilities are theirs. If your partner is going to open up an account under their name, you will have no claim to that and the same applies to them when it comes to your finances. It is of fundamental importance to clarify how the couple is to approach any financial responsibilities in the future.

Seeking a financial set-up that both individuals are comfortable with is the goal of talking about money. While aiming to split everything 50/50 might seem ideal, it does not leave much leeway. It’s not until the couple moves in together that they get a firm idea of how much their lover spends on hobbies and other unnecessary expenses. It is unreasonable to ask a significant other to pay for half when consumption and personal expenses are not evenly split. A good idea is to avoid dealing in absolutes when it comes to money figures. Also, don’t forget to be flexible.

Look To Your Future

Right now it would not be surprising if the couple feels like they are for keeps. Naturally, that’s how a majority of couples who have just brought up moving in together feel. The truth of the matter is there really is no telling what sort of future they will have individually and as a couple. That is why it is critical for each to cast a safety net for their own individual interests. Talking about legalities and finances may not be the most romantic topic to discuss but it is necessary in order to lay a strong foundation for the two people in that very relationship. If these are topics that you cannot broach to your partner at this time, it is important to ask yourself if this is a decision that you are still comfortable on making.

 

7 Tips for Couples Living in Small Apartments

Cohabitation is often hard on its own, but it gets especially complicated when you share a tiny apartment that offers absolutely no privacy. However, living in a small space doesn’t have to result in an ugly breakup. Here are a few tips that can help you turn your tiny apartment into a real love nest that will only make your bond stronger!

Create your couple style

Sure, you might know exactly what your personal style is, but how does it match with your SO’s style? Basically, anything you introduce into a small apartment will affect its general aesthetics, so you both need to put in some effort. Start with a solid idea of the space you’d like to live in (find images, discuss rooms…) and then keep your vision in mind when buying items. This way, you’ll have a coherent space that both of you love!

Rethink your storage

You can never have too much storage in a home, especially in tiny apartments that look cluttered as soon as you misplace one thing. But, your place must have plenty of weird nooks that can be transformed into storage in no time. Also, don’t hesitate to think outside the box. Will it look strange to use a pile of books as a nightstand? Yes. But, unless you’re ready to give them up, who cares if it’s weird.

Invest in space saving furniture

Because our homes are getting smaller and smaller, there’s a whole new niche of furniture that’s multi-purpose, flexible or foldable. From foldable chairs to wall-mounted countertops to height-adjustable tables, you’ll be mind-blown once you start exploring the scene. All of these pieces adapt to different situations and allow you to use your space in many different ways.

Declutter like crazy

Moving into a small apartment isn’t exactly the time to toss a coin whether to get rid of your 90s nostalgia combat trousers or not. There’s no way these are making a comeback, so toss them out! This is really a perfect time to donate and throw away things you don’t use, clothes you don’t wear and items that you don’t like. It can be crazy uncomfortable to purge at the beginning, but it’s so addictive, that you’ll have to stop yourself very soon.

Get some fresh air inside

Tiny spaces tend to become very stuffy very quickly, especially if there are two people living inside. So, make sure to air out your space every so often to replenish your oxygen supply and allow your brain to get some fresh O2. Another great thing you can do for your indoor air quality is to invest in an air purifier. Check out the Internet for ratings and you’ll find the best air purifier for your living situation because there’s a ton of models on the market. All in all, these bad boys can rid your indoor air of dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander while some even remove odors and cigarette smoke, so get a model that matches your needs and you’ll always have a fresh and airy home no matter how small it is.

Create living zones

This is especially important if you live in a studio apartment that has almost zero privacy. Luckily you can designate separate zones with room dividers, privacy screens or bookshelves. Creating different zones will give you and your partner to share a home while having ample space to breathe. No matter how much you love each other, being alone from time to time is actually great for your relationship.

Make new traditions

Coming up with new habits and traditions is a great way to bring you closer as a couple and strengthen your connection with your apartment. No matter if you choose to dedicate 5 minutes every morning to couple’s meditation or decide to always have at least one meal together, it’s a big step towards solidarity and togetherness. So, make sure to really splurge on items that support your new traditions. For instance, you can invest in pro yoga mats or buy a big multisectional pan for quick couple’s breakfasts. These will not take too much space, but they will certainly help keep your new custom alive.

So, it’s more than possible to cohabitate in a tiny space without killing each other. All you need are good organizational skills, plenty of patience and some sense of humor and you’ll certainly make it!

Entertainment coupled with savings – the biggest attraction of Dave and Busters coupons

Family entertainment means a mixture of fun, food and games and this is precisely what Dave and Buster’s serves to its customers. Today, Dave and Busters establishments are found not only in the US but also across the world that has set new standards in family entertainment accompanied by lip smacking foods. However, what you see today of the Dave and Buster’s establishment had made its humble beginning in the 1970s when Buster’s restaurant and Dave’s Slick Willy’s World of Entertainment operated as separate businesses with divergent concepts but located next to each other. Customers helped to bring the companies closer as they frequently moved between food and games. This led to a great friendship between the owners who embarked on the idea of fusing the entities into one consolidated business for offering all-around entertainment.

It took more than a decade to start the first Dave and Buster’s establishment in Dallas. Texas in 1982 and then there was no stopping for it. The popularity of the establishment spread very rapidly, and it was just a matter of time before it reached beyond the shores of America and touched the hearts of people at other places in the world where it made its presence felt. Dave and Buster’s serve selected menu of food that tantalizes the customers who enjoy endless fun and excitement from a variety of games and they keep coming back to the place time and again. Those looking for an ideal package of games together with a delicious combination of food and drinks all under one roof would not hesitate to become loyal customers.

Endless fun and entertainment

The attraction of Dave and Buster’s is irresistible.  Now, it boasts of an inventory of state-of-the-art games that customers stay hooked to while enjoying mouth-watering food together with the most innovative drinks that is hard to find at any other place. From wings to steaks you can have your platter full of delicacies to whet your appetite, and their premium bar has liquors of all kinds stocked to quench your thirst. The most appealing aspect is viewing the games you play on a huge HDTV that reverberates with the epic sound that creates a stadium like an ambiance. As if it is not enough to please customers, they entice customers to indulge in more fun and entertainment by availing Dave and Busters coupon that offers attractive discounts. This article should help you to learn all about Dave and Busters coupons.

A marketing ploy that never gets old

Marketers have always aimed at wooing customers to engage in more spending by offering some upfront discount by issuing coupons of a certain value that they can redeem. Coca-Cola first tested the marketing tool with massive success in 1887, and since then it remains a high potential in attracting customers and increasing sales. The appeal of Dave and Buster’s coupon is ever growing to its customers who can enjoy more games and have more fun by redeeming the coupons. Being the least expensive method of marketing more than 50% of all retailers and brands offer some form of bonus or discount coupons to its customers that has enormous power in boosting sales.

With technological advancements that have turned the world digital, coupons are now available in the form of promo code or coupon code that does away with the need of procuring printed coupons. By entering the coupon code, online customers can avail discounts on their purchases. This is also applicable to Dave and Buster’s coupons that come with Promo codes.

Coupons are a great encouragement

Dave and Buster’s coupons offer a variety of discounts and incentives that trigger customer interest.  From organizing parties for business or pleasure to providing an incentive for hosting a youth party online, the coupons can meet many kinds of customer needs. Many different types of coupons provide lucrative discounts or incentives for indulging in games and ordering foods and beverages.  Coupons are now available online, and there is no need to hunt for it in Sunday newspapers and magazines.

As coupons are now available online, you can log on to the website that sells coupons, download it and get it printed. Traditional coupons are attractive, but online coupons are even more attractive because it can offer higher savings. Free printable coupons are also available.

People who want to have maximum fun with food under one roof would find Dave and Buster’s the place of their choice and like the topping on the cake, they would be delighted to avail the discounts and benefits by using coupons. For getting more fun for your money, you must avail Dave and Buster’s coupons that enhance the enjoyment and makes the food tastier.

There is nothing like saving money when you play games and gorge on sumptuous food, and this is what puts Dave and Buster’s apart from the rest.

Things All Single Moms Need To Know About Raising Funds For Small Business

If you are a single mom suppressing your bream to be a business owner, here is some good news. You can fulfill your dream with the easy accessible finds that are available now in the market for small businesses. These loans are specially designed for those aspiring mothers who do not have the required fund to become a successful business owner. However, you will need to know a few things first regarding the small business loans for single mothers. Remember, being a single mother and looking for a business loan, both are difficult but there is nothing to be disheartened especially when you have survived worse situations.

The life of a single mother is full of challenges and unpredictability as it is. It becomes even more difficult if you want to start a small business and keep it running as well. The business risks and operation are even higher considering their responsibility as a single parent. The consequences are greater and more severe if you make the wrong choice. Therefore, you as a single mother must know the how to figure out the best option for funding for your business. It will pay off well if you are fully informed about your options before signing on the dotted lines for the loan.

Where to start

To start with your business funding endeavor you must first know where to start from. Irrespective of the type of funding you choose, there are three basic things that you should do:

• Check your credit score: You must know your credit score before you apply for a business loan. Check it from any of the three major credit agencies, Experian, Trans Union, and Equifax. Your credit score is the first and most significant tool for the financial institutions to assess your eligibility for the loan and ability to repay the specific type of loans.
• Find a reputable lender: The next thing you should do is conduct a thorough research to ensure that the lender of the business loan is reputable. You may find more than a thousand options on the internet, but beware that not all are created equal and all are not legitimate. The most feasible way to check credibility and reputation of a money lender is to verify it with Better Business Bureau to check its rating.
• Draw up a business plan: This is the third and final step to follow when you are done with your credit score, eligibility and finalized on a couple of business loan lenders. Almost all money lending institutions will ask for a proper and detailed business plan along with your loan application. This enables them to see the prospects of your business. Even if a lender does not want it and you decide to go with that lender, it is prudent to have such a business plan. It will help you to know how exactly you will utilize the money and also determine the amount of loan you need, your ability to pay it back on time, evaluate and make estimates for your future revenue and earnings.

You can use The Small Business Administration or SBA template for this purpose which is the universal model often recommended by https://www.libertylending.com/ and several other experts.

Consider government business resources

It is recommended that all single mothers seeking financial assistance for starting a small business contact the SBA’s Women’s Business Center. You will get all necessary information from these centers that also offer:

• Financing opportunities
• Online resources
• SBA loans
• Loan guarantees
• Contracts
• Counseling sessions and other assistance.

Apart from that, you may also consider other different federal government programs such as the Community Development Financial Institution Program, CFDI. This is the initiative of the Treasury Department and works with SBA. It helps single mothers develop their small businesses in the under-served communities but lacks access to any traditional financing. It is a tailored resource that offers innovative programs investing federal dollars along with private sector capital.

Different finance options

There are different financing options for single mothers wanting to start a small business such as traditional banks and alternative lenders.

• Traditional banks: These can be both large and small. These will typically have a very strict standard for making loans to you. You will need to have a high credit score of over 700 at least. You will also need to have properly maintained financial records for at least three years, a very detailed business plan and other relevant documents. The approval rates from these banks are as low as 25%. However, if approved, you will get much lower interest in bank loans as compared with other institutions.
• Alternative lenders: It may be a bit difficult to find a bank that will be offering a loan willingly to single mothers but you can search of business loans from a slightly different financing route. Alternative lenders also offer small business loans along with merchant cash advances and traditional business loans. These lenders are more flexible with their loan requirements, and need a lower personal credit score of may be 500. The documentation process is also significantly less as compared with the major banks.

But before you sign on the dotted line you must read the terms and conditions of the business loan. There may be several clauses and terms that may put you and subsequently your family at a considerable risk if you are unable to repay it back on time. Avoid applying for too many loans because each application will directly impact your credit score.

As for the alternative lenders, you must be more careful as the rate of interest in their loan will be higher than the traditional big banks due to your higher risk. Check the BBB rating before you pick one and make sure the reputation of the lender is solid.

A final thought

Give a final thought so that you are very sure before you take on the loan. Plan way ahead of the approaches to overcome the challenges by avoiding toxic people, being proud of being a single mom business owner, working harder and looking for someone who will support your dreams

The Rise of the Blended Family in the UK

In the UK as is many other countries, divorce, separation, and repartnering are the norm, with many welcoming children from their partner’s former relationship into their home to live together as a family. The latest report from the Office for National Statistics recorded over half a million blended families with dependent children in England and Wales, with 28% of these families having three or more children. Without a doubt, walking the fine line between parent and friend can be challenging for parents of new blended families, and it is vital for spouses or partners to manage their situation with a sound and united strategy, working as a team to ensure the health and happiness of every person living in their home.

What are Some Problems that Blended Families can Encounter?

Parentline Plus, a hotline for parents with family issues, reported receiving over 14,000 calls in a single year from step parents with stepfamily issues. Research by psychologist, Lisa Doodson of Regent’s University London found that stepmothers had significantly higher levels of anxiety and depression than biological mothers, as well as a weaker support structure. Common problems can include a lack of time (parents find that they now have to spread the little time they may have between more children); sibling rivalry (children may find it hard to get along with their step siblings or compete for their parents’ attention, fearful that they will be loved less now that they are not living with both biological parents); and territorial issues (children can find it hard to have to share bedrooms, bathrooms, toys, etc. There can be initial difficulties establishing territory and limits). Parents can also struggle to get twice as many kids to get to after-school activities and lessons, while work and other personal and social demands.

Adaptation Takes Time

Research shows that it can take blended families at least four years to adjust to their new arrangement. Therefore, if you feel frustrated or powerless when it comes to managing so much change, know that it takes time to get to know your stepchildren and to negotiate the many rules and routines that may differ considerably from your own. Be patient and use humour to diffuse tense situations, and use tried-and-tested conflict resolution skills to reduce tension and focus on issues that arise, looking to solve these issues one by one. As time passes, you will start to appreciate the benefits that being part of a blended family can bring to your life. Things may be a bit more chaotic than they used to be, but they can also be more entertaining and the presence of more rather than less people in a household can actually be a source of support in terms of time, chores, company, and other essential life factors.

Building a Strategy

Before you begin to live as a blended family, it is important to time to discuss routines and rules with your new spouse or partner. Uniformity must prevail in a home if there is to be peace in a blended family. Therefore, some feel it is logical to ask new children arriving into the home to adapt to established routines, bedtimes, etc. This isn’t to say that your spouse’s considerations don’t matter. During your discussion, you might decide that some changes will be profitable for everyone in the family. Equality should prevail, but you should not feel like you don’t have the right to establish norms in your home.

 

Deciding on Conflict Resolution Norms

When norms for conflict aren’t established, arguments can quickly escalate. It is important that once children are mature enough to understand and learn conflict resolution skills, that conflict resolution skills be learned, to make for  peaceful, purposeful communication within your blended family. At a family meeting, you can explain to kids why using the right language is important. For instance, language such as “You always” or “You never” should be avoided, because they put the listener on the defensive and veer the discussion away from the actual problem you are trying to fix. The ultimate aim is for step siblings to see the family unit as a team. This way, conflicts can be seen as an opportunity to achieve outcomes rather than to ‘beat the opponent’.

Adding a Dash of Understanding

Be prepared for your stepchildren to utter, at some point during your life together, “You can’t tell me what to do, you’re not my mom/dad.” Understand that when they say this, they are essentially telling you they are hurting, they are finding it hard to adapt, and they may miss their old home structure with their biological parents. For some kids, discussing conflicts should be left for when the situation is calmer. Take the time you need to clear your mind when you feel like you are frustrated. Go for a walk, do some deep breathing, or meditate for a few moments, coming back to your stepchild when the tension has diffused a little. Explain that you are not trying to replace their parent, but that as an adult in the home, you need to establish ground rules across the board, for all kids living with you. When you speak to them, use humour and warmth to help them feel loved rather than chastised. A warm embrace and a smile can go a long way towards helping children understand that there is nothing personal about rules; they simply need to be set for the household to run as smoothly as possible.

If you are about to start a blended family living arrangement, it is important to be realistic and expect a few teething problems, both on your part and those of your existing and new kids. You and your partner can reduce the likelihood of conflict by agreeing on ground rules and explaining them together to your children in a family meeting. Be prepared for a few territorial fights and tears at first, but be resistant, don’t give in, and always stress the importance of approaching problems as a family. Take complaints as a sign your new kids may need a little reassurance and extra time and attention and do your best to give them as much support as they need. Once rules, schedules, and bedroom arrangements are set, you can start enjoying the diversity and fun involved in living together, seeing conflict as an opportunity to learn more about your biological and step children, but also about yourself.

The Study On Relationship Between Single Mothers And Debt Is A Complex Issue

The financial status of single mothers is often related to poverty but it is not as simple as it seems. There is no reason to believe that single mothers will always have debt and have to suffer in silence having no one to support or ask for help. The rising trend and number of single mothers have raised concerns of government of different countries to announce debt relief programs and different others that will provide financial assistance to them in running their household and raise their children.

However, in almost all countries all over the world, family structure and poverty are often intertwined and is believed that nearly a third of all households headed by a single mom live in or below the poverty line. On the other hand, study reveals that it is only about six percent of families headed by married couples are officially ranked as poor. Most amazingly it is found that an about 45 percent of children are leading life in poverty who are without a father.

According to recent research, it is also found that intergenerational income mobility in the metropolitan areas is very low where there are a large number of single mothers. This finding has resulted in a fierce public debate over the meaning of the relationship of single mothers with poverty and debt.

The survey reports also say that cities that have a large number of single mother households tend to have a very slow and low upward mobility. In some areas it even has a clear declining trend as the number of single mothers rises. The statistical power and link of this variable between family structure and income inequality or mobility is stunning and even alarming at times.

The controversy in the issue

However, researchers have proceeded with extreme caution to establish this link and has emphasized on all possible factors to arrive at such a bold-faced finding. Still this happens to be the most controversial issues across the globe. The reasons are:

• It is crucial to find a scientific explanation about this figure, the reasons for it and what it means for the future.
• This is also a factor that is correlated and the entire factors and elements considered are hard to define.
• It is also not necessarily an evidence of causation as it does not mean that if and when a single mother is paired with a partner somehow, the inequality will go down all of a sudden.
• Furthermore, the complexity of the channel through which such inequality of standard of living and family structure are related makes it all the more debatable.

These issues are substantiated by several theoretical as well as practical examples by the critics. They argue that cities that usually have a large number of mothers who are alone and single have a less upward mobility. It is even seen for those families where both the parents are in the home. That means the channel is unlikely to have a direct effect or link due to the single mothers on inequality. It also nullifies the common misconception that single mothers always incur multiple debts and need to go through different debt settlement reviews and consult credit counselors to come out of debt but all in vain.

Difficult to make conclusion

No matter how tempting it may look to deduce from the tidy pattern of inequality so depicted by the researchers, it does not scientifically explain the relation. It does not even explain the fact that breakdown of marriages will always cause poverty eventually. Therefore, it is very difficult to perpetuate inequality with single mothers.

• Science and scientific explanation will not take the causal direction here or will depend entirely on ideologies. Conservatives have however used this data to prepare an argument regarding the importance of marriage in lifting children and women out of poverty. This is once again highly debatable as it indirectly implies that there is a shortage of stable husbands and that is the primary source of the issue rather than considering it as one of the side effects.
• On the other hand, liberals and sociologists argue that it is primarily the economic forces that are much larger than families that have decimated the urban communities. It has ideally robbed many males of one of their most significant prerequisites to any stable marriage which is a stable job. This type of approach and thinking fortifies the fact that it is the circumstances that leads to poverty which by itself strain families in turn.

Therefore, the belief that frayed social values results in poverty suggests just the opposite. It typically argues against all of the wrong policy prescriptions. According to this argument, more emphasis is given on incentivizing marriage, teaching family values and convincing the poor people to get married to come out of poverty.

Argument for more economic analysis

Conservatives say that there is an immediate requirement of more economic analysis of the ‘causal chain’ regarding inequality in income and status of single mothers. In the meantime, they look for better explanation considering the explanations that are already available. At the very least, such efforts results in further scrutiny of the underlying conditions that may create a low social mobility for the single mothers.

They also argue that such findings when taken at face value will make people believe easily that the culture of a specific community is the primary issue and causation of such inequality. This inevitably results in blaming the single mothers due to their prevalence in that community. People will even cite that the absence of fathers is the primary cause for children being poor and are deprived of the opportunities to move up in their career in future within the specific community.

Therefore, it is high time to come out of the common misbeliefs and blaming single mothers in the neighborhood for high rates of unemployment, poverty, and incarceration having a huge impact in the economy and debt accumulation. It is unwise and even derogatory to think that a woman will get married only for economic security and have any values for the institution.