With all the current buzz around treating our gut health and improving our overall wellness, boosting energy levels is often overlooked—especially for those who need it most, from elderly loved ones to overwhelmed young adults. Keeping energy levels steady isn’t just about staying awake during the day; it’s also vital for supporting physical activity, mental sharpness, and immune health. The good news? Choosing the right foods can make a huge difference.
Here are 4 energy-boosting foods that are simple, nutritious, and perfect for anyone looking for a natural pick-me-up.
Bananas: Nature’s Energy Bar
Bananas are the ultimate grab-and-go snack, and they’re great for anyone needing a quick energy fix, from busy parents to active seniors. Packed with natural sugars, fiber, and essential vitamins, bananas provide both an immediate and sustained boost. They’re also rich in potassium, which helps muscles work efficiently and can reduce fatigue.
For an easy energy-boosting snack, pair a banana with a spoonful of peanut or almond butter. This combination of carbs, healthy fats, and protein keeps you fueled for hours and is perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon recharge.
Oats: The Breakfast of Champions
Oatmeal has long been a breakfast favorite, and for good reason—it’s packed with complex carbohydrates that release energy gradually throughout the day. This makes it ideal for maintaining steady energy levels and avoiding mid-morning crashes. Oats are also rich in fiber, which supports gut health and keeps you feeling full for longer.
To maximize its benefits, customize your oatmeal with a handful of nuts, seeds, or fresh berries. These additions add healthy fats, antioxidants, and a pop of flavor to your meal, making it not only more satisfying but also more effective for energy support.
Almonds: Tiny but Mighty
Almonds may be small, but they’re loaded with energy-boosting nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and magnesium. Magnesium, in particular, is a mineral that plays a crucial role in converting food into energy, making almonds a perfect snack for tackling fatigue.
Whether you’re on the go or need a quick boost between meals, a handful of almonds (about 23) is the perfect portion. Their portability and long shelf life make them an easy and nutritious choice for everyone, including seniors who might need convenient snacks throughout the day.
Water: Underrated Energy Drink
While eating energy-rich foods is essential, staying hydrated is just as important.
Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and sluggishness. So really, you want to drink water yourself and encourage your loved ones to sip on water throughout the day or enjoy hydrating options like herbal teas and water-rich fruits like cucumbers or oranges.
By incorporating these foods (and water) into your diet—or sharing them with someone who could use an energy boost—you can help ensure sustained vitality and better overall health.
In a constantly changing business landscape, growth is not just an aspiration but a necessity. Organizations must embrace calculated strategies, innovation, and adaptability to remain competitive and relevant. As explained by Ramses Meijer, from identifying market opportunities to fostering collaboration and refining operations, every step plays a pivotal role in achieving expansion.
Companies that align their goals with customer needs, invest in their workforce, and leverage data-driven insights are better positioned to thrive in competitive markets. Whether it’s through innovation or operational efficiency, growth requires a vision and execution.
The Importance of Strategic Growth for Business Success
Strategic growth is vital for businesses aiming to thrive in competitive markets. Without a plan, companies risk stagnation, which can lead to losing relevance as industries shift. Growth strategies ensure businesses adapt to changing consumer demands and shifting market dynamics, paving the way for sustainability and profitability.
Companies that prioritize growth often position themselves to seize opportunities others might overlook. Proactive planning allows businesses to navigate challenges, such as economic downturns or emerging competitors, with greater resilience. A clear strategy acts as a roadmap, guiding decisions that align with long-term pursuits while fostering innovation and expansion.
Identifying Opportunities Through Market Research and Customer Insights
Understanding the market is the foundation of any successful growth strategy. Market research provides valuable insights into emerging trends, shifting customer preferences, and potential gaps in the competitive landscape. Businesses that actively listen to their audience—whether through surveys, social media engagement, or data analytics—gain a clearer picture of what drives purchasing behavior.
Organizations that invest in comprehensive research often uncover opportunities that others might miss. A clothing brand, as an illustration, might identify a growing demand for sustainable materials by analyzing customer feedback and industry reports. By responding to these insights, businesses can develop products that resonate with their audience while differentiating themselves from competitors.
Customer insights also play an integral role in refining marketing strategies. By knowing where and how their target market engages with content, businesses can craft messages that truly connect with their audience.
Innovating Products, Services, and Digital Strategies
Innovation is a cornerstone of growth, and businesses that adapt to changing market demands often achieve sustained success. Diversifying product or service offerings allows companies to cater to emerging needs or niche audiences. A tech company, as an example, might expand its software suite to include AI-powered tools, aligning itself with technological advancements and customer expectations.
The integration of digital strategies amplifies this growth. Businesses leveraging e-commerce platforms, social media, and automation tools can reach wider audiences, streamline operations, and improve customer experiences. Digital transformation isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a necessity in an increasingly connected world. Companies adopting these technologies position themselves to capitalize on opportunities that would otherwise remain untapped.
By blending innovation with digital changes, businesses create a synergy that drives expansion. Whether it’s launching a new app or enhancing existing services through personalization, these efforts ensure they remain competitive while meeting the expectations of modern consumers.
Strengthening Partnerships and Workforce Development
Collaborations with other organizations can unlock immense potential for businesses aiming to grow. Strategic partnerships, such as co-branding or resource-sharing agreements, allow companies to leverage each other’s strengths while minimizing risks. A local bakery teaming up with a coffee shop can create a mutually beneficial alliance that drives traffic and enhances customer experiences. These partnerships often lead to innovative solutions that neither party could achieve independently.
Equally important is investing in the workforce. Employees are at the heart of any organization, and their growth directly impacts overall success. Businesses that prioritize leadership training, skill development, and workplace culture create atmospheres where employees thrive. This not only boosts productivity but also fosters loyalty, reducing turnover and ensuring the business retains its top talent. When employees feel valued, their contributions often exceed expectations, further driving organizational success.
Scaling Operations and Managing Resources Effectively
Scaling operations is a delicate process that requires careful planning. Expanding too quickly can overwhelm resources, while moving too slowly may result in missed opportunities. Businesses that succeed in scaling often focus on streamlining operations, such as automating routine tasks or upgrading infrastructure to handle increased demand.
Cost management is another critical element of effective scaling. Allocating resources wisely ensures growth efforts remain sustainable without compromising quality. Outsourcing non-core tasks, such as customer support or IT services, can free up internal teams to focus on other priorities. This balance between expansion and resource optimization ensures they remain agile and ready to adapt to new challenges. By maintaining efficiency while scaling, businesses can avoid pitfalls that could derail their progress.
Tracking Progress with Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Measuring progress is paramount for ensuring growth strategies yield the intended results. Key performance indicators provide businesses with tangible data points to assess their success. Metrics such as revenue growth, customer acquisition rates, and market share reveal whether a company is moving closer to its objectives. By regularly monitoring these indicators, leaders can identify areas that require adjustment, ensuring the business stays on track.
Businesses that consistently track and analyze their performance are better equipped to adapt to changes and sustain momentum. By leveraging KPIs as a compass, they create a culture of accountability and progress, setting the stage for long-term success. Frequent evaluation of key metrics not only drives growth but also ensures transparency and alignment across teams.
Christian stewardship is a concept deeply rooted in faith, emphasizing the responsible management of everything that God has entrusted to believers. It goes beyond financial giving, encompassing time, talents, and other resources, encouraging Christians to live in a way that honors and serves God.
As Michael Bodanza knows, stewardship, in its most complete sense, is a holistic approach to life that deepens one’s faith, strengthens communities, and leaves a legacy of compassion and responsibility for those who follow.
Understanding Christian Stewardship
Christian stewardship is the practice of managing all that God has entrusted to believers in a way that honors Him. It is rooted in the belief that everything, including time, talents, and material resources, ultimately belongs to God, and humans are merely caretakers. The concept is founded in biblical teachings, such as in Genesis 1:28, where God commands humanity to have dominion over the earth and its resources. This stewardship is not about ownership but about responsibility and faithful management of what has been given.
At its core, Christian stewardship extends beyond financial giving and includes how one uses their skills, energy, and time for the greater good. Whether it’s using one’s talents to serve within the church or dedicating time to helping others in need, stewardship encompasses all areas of life. A good example is seen when individuals use their business acumen to assist nonprofits or their leadership skills to guide community projects. Through these actions, they demonstrate that stewardship is not limited to money but involves a holistic approach to life.
Moreover, stewardship is a continual process of making intentional choices to live in alignment with one’s faith. It reflects trust in God’s provision and a commitment to using resources wisely for both personal growth and the benefit of others.
The Importance of Giving in Stewardship
Giving lies at the very heart of Christian stewardship. It is a tangible way for believers to express their gratitude to God for His blessings while also supporting the work of the church and the well-being of others.
Whether through financial contributions, volunteering time, or sharing talents, giving is a form of worship and an essential aspect of living out one’s faith. Scripture encourages this, with passages like 2 Corinthians 9:7, which reminds believers that “God loves a cheerful giver.” It highlights that giving should come from the heart, not out of obligation.
In many churches, tithing has long been a practice that reflects this principle. Traditionally, Christians give a portion of their income to support the ministry and charitable works of the church. However, stewardship goes beyond financial transactions.
Many believers contribute their time to local missions, tutoring programs, or outreach initiatives, demonstrating that giving back can take various forms. A musician might play in the worship band, while someone with a passion for mentoring might lead a youth group. In each case, the act of giving fulfills a broader purpose of helping others while growing spiritually and serving God’s kingdom.
Impact of Christian Stewardship on Communities
Christian stewardship can have a profound ripple effect on communities, creating lasting change through collective generosity and service. When individuals and churches prioritize stewardship, they become forces for good, addressing both spiritual and physical needs. Many churches, for instance, launch feeding programs, build homes for the underprivileged, or support education initiatives, all of which directly uplift their communities. These acts of service reflect the biblical call in Matthew 25:40 to serve “the least of these,” recognizing that helping others is akin to serving Christ Himself.
The impact is more expansive than large-scale initiatives. Small, everyday acts of stewardship also make a difference. A person might choose to volunteer at a local shelter, or a family might open their home to someone in need, contributing to the overall well-being and cohesion of their community.
Practical Ways to Live Out Stewardship
Living out Christian stewardship can take on many forms, and it often begins with small, intentional steps. One of the simplest ways to practice stewardship is by dedicating time to serving others.
Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, mentoring someone in need, or helping a neighbor, these acts of service embody the principles of stewardship. It’s not always about grand gestures but about consistently showing up for those around you in meaningful ways. Many people also choose to integrate stewardship into their daily routines, finding ways to be mindful of how they use their time, energy, and resources.
Beyond donating money or volunteering, stewardship is also about caring for the environment and the world God created. Reducing waste, conserving water, and making sustainable choices are practical ways to honor the earth and live out the biblical call to “tend and keep” the planet. These actions reflect a broader understanding of stewardship as a holistic lifestyle that impacts every aspect of life. It’s about making choices that align with one’s values and faith, ensuring that resources are used wisely and with purpose, ultimately benefiting the earth and future generations.
Personal Growth Through Stewardship
Stewardship not only benefits others but also fosters profound personal growth. By committing to a life of service and generosity, believers often find themselves transformed in unexpected ways. The act of giving—whether time, talent, or treasure—requires a spirit of humility and trust in God’s provision.
As individuals focus less on themselves and more on the needs of others, they often experience a deepened sense of purpose and fulfillment. This transformation is echoed in Luke 6:38, where the principle of giving is tied to receiving blessings in return, although the valid reward is spiritual growth rather than material gain.
Many people find that their faith strengthens as they practice stewardship. By surrendering control over their resources and trusting God, believers cultivate a deeper reliance on Him. This faith journey can lead to greater peace as individuals learn to let go of their anxieties about material wealth or time constraints. In turn, this trust fosters a sense of joy and contentment that can only come from living in alignment with God’s calling and relying on His provision.
The Lasting Effects of Stewardship
The lasting impact of stewardship is far-reaching, often extending beyond the immediate beneficiaries of one’s efforts. When individuals commit to a life of giving and service, they inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that can transform families, communities, and even future generations.
A single act of kindness or generosity can encourage others to pay it forward, leading to a culture of giving that continues long after the initial gesture. Churches that prioritize stewardship often see this ripple effect firsthand, as members take their experiences of giving and service into their personal lives, influencing those around them to engage in similar acts of kindness. The long-term effects of stewardship are also evident in the way it shapes legacies. A person who models stewardship for their children or community leaves behind more than financial wealth—they leave a blueprint for how to live a life of purpose and generosity. This legacy can inspire future generations to value service over self-interest, ensuring that the principles of stewardship continue to thrive. Over time, these values can strengthen communities, promoting a spirit of collaboration and mutual support, which is essential for the well-being of society.
AHW LLC is your trusted partner when it comes to sourcing high-performance agricultural and construction equipment. Known for its dedication to customer satisfaction and unmatched expertise in John Deere machinery, the company has become a go-to provider for businesses aiming to optimize their operations. Whether it’s a cutting-edge new machine or a budget-friendly pre-owned option, AHW LLC ensures every customer gets a solution tailored to their needs.
With a wide range of services, including maintenance, repairs, and flexible financing, AHW LLC supports small-scale operators and large enterprises in achieving their goals. As highlighted by Tim McDonald, their commitment to providing durable, reliable, and technologically advanced equipment reflects their mission to empower businesses with the tools they need to thrive.
AHW LLC and its expertise in John Deere Equipment
AHW LLC has built a reputation as a trusted partner for those in agriculture and construction, consistently providing high-quality solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers. With years of industry expertise, the company understands the challenges operators face and is committed to providing machinery that enhances productivity while lowering operational costs. Their focus on customer satisfaction is evident in their dedication to offering dependable equipment and excellent support services.
As a provider of new and pre-owned John Deere machines, AHW LLC offers unmatched versatility to its customers. Whether a farmer is looking for the latest tractor to improve planting efficiency or a contractor is seeking a cost-effective skid steer for a construction project, AHW LLC ensures that every piece of equipment is selected to meet real-world demands. This dual offering of new and pre-owned machinery allows customers to find solutions that align with their specific goals and budgets.
Beyond their impressive inventory, AHW LLC’s ability to pair customers with the right equipment highlights their expertise. They don’t just sell machines—they build long-term relationships by understanding the unique operational requirements and guiding clients toward the best options.
Why John Deere Stands Out
John Deere has long been synonymous with innovation and durability, earning its reputation as a leader in agricultural and construction equipment. Its machines are engineered to handle the most demanding environments while maintaining peak performance, making them a valuable asset for businesses that rely on efficiency. From advanced GPS-guided tractors to fuel-efficient loaders, John Deere continues to set industry standards for quality and reliability.
One of the reasons John Deere machines are so widely trusted is their ability to adapt to the evolving needs of modern operations. The integration of cutting-edge technology, such as precision farming systems and telematics, allows operators to monitor and optimize workflows in real-time. This not only reduces waste but also ensures tasks are completed with a level of accuracy that was previously unattainable, offering an edge in competitive markets.
AHW LLC’s Inventory of New and Pre-Owned John Deere Machines
AHW LLC takes pride in offering a wide selection of John Deere machinery, catering to those seeking the latest advancements and those looking for cost-effective, pre-owned solutions. For customers seeking quality on a budget, AHW LLC’s pre-owned inventory is a dependable alternative. Each machine undergoes a meticulous inspection process to ensure it meets strict quality standards before being offered to buyers.
Whether it’s a used combine harvester or a second-hand compact track loader, customers can trust that they’re investing in equipment that delivers lasting value. This dual offering of new and pre-owned options allows AHW LLC to provide tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes, ensuring no operational need goes unmet.
Comprehensive Support and Services for Customers
AHW LLC’s commitment to its customers doesn’t end with the sale of equipment. Their comprehensive support services are designed to ensure operators get the most out of their machinery. From routine maintenance to quick access to genuine parts, AHW LLC helps minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly. Their team of skilled technicians is always ready to assist with repairs, ensuring that machines are back in action as quickly as possible.
In addition to technical support, AHW LLC offers flexible financing options to make equipment acquisition more accessible. Whether it’s a start-up farm or an established construction business, customers can explore payment plans that align with their financial goals. This flexibility reflects AHW LLC’s understanding of the unique challenges faced by businesses in these industries.
Customer satisfaction is at the heart of AHW LLC’s operations, and their dedication is evident in the positive feedback they’ve earned over the years. Many clients return not just for the equipment but for the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have a partner they can rely on.
Finding the Right Machinery for Your Needs
Choosing the right equipment is a vital decision for any operation, and AHW LLC excels in guiding customers through this process. Whether you’re considering a state-of-the-art new machine or exploring the benefits of a pre-owned option, their team takes the time to understand your specific goals and budget. This personalized approach ensures that every customer is matched with a solution that maximizes efficiency and value.
Modern agricultural and construction needs are diverse, ranging from precision planting to final grading on the job site. AHW LLC recognizes these unique demands and offers tailored recommendations to help operators find the perfect fit. Their extensive inventory and industry expertise make it easy to compare models, features, and pricing, giving customers the confidence to make informed decisions.
Tracking employees has become a crucial aspect of managing a modern workforce. Whether for improving productivity, ensuring compliance, or maintaining security, having the right tools and strategies in place can make a significant difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively track your employees while maintaining a positive work environment.
How Do I Track My Employees?
1. Define Your Objectives
Before you start tracking your employees, it’s essential to define your objectives. Are you looking to improve productivity, ensure compliance with company policies, or enhance security? Understanding your goals will help you choose the right tools and methods for tracking.
2. Choose the Right Tools
There are various tools available for tracking employees, each with its specific features and benefits. Here are some popular options:
Time Tracking Software: Employee trackerTools like Controlio help track the amount of time employees spend on tasks and projects. These tools are useful for billing clients accurately and understanding how time is allocated across different activities.
Project Management Tools: Platforms like Asana, Trello, and Monday.com offer time tracking features along with project management capabilities. They help in tracking project progress, assigning tasks, and ensuring deadlines are met.
Employee Monitoring Software: Software like Controlio, Hubstaff, and Teramind provide comprehensive monitoring capabilities, including real-time activity tracking, screenshot capture, and application usage monitoring. These tools are ideal for ensuring productivity and security.
GPS Tracking: For businesses with field employees, GPS tracking tools like Fleet Complete and Verizon Connect can help track location and movement, ensuring that employees are where they are supposed to be.
3. Implement Clear Policies
Transparency is key when it comes to tracking employees. Implement clear policies that outline what will be tracked, how the data will be used, and why tracking is necessary. Communicate these policies to your employees and ensure they understand the benefits and implications of being tracked.
4. Focus on Results, Not Just Activity
While tracking activity can provide insights into how employees spend their time, it’s essential to focus on results. Set clear performance goals and track progress towards these goals. This approach helps employees feel valued for their contributions rather than just being monitored for their activity.
5. Encourage Self-Tracking
Encourage employees to track their own time and productivity. Tools like RescueTime and Clockify can help employees monitor their own activities and identify areas for improvement. Self-tracking promotes accountability and helps employees take ownership of their productivity.
6. Regularly Review and Analyze Data
Collecting data is only useful if you analyze and act on it. Regularly review the tracking data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement. Use this data to provide constructive feedback and support to your employees. Recognize high performers and address any issues promptly.
7. Respect Privacy and Build Trust
While tracking is important, it’s crucial to respect employee privacy. Avoid excessive monitoring and ensure that the tracking practices comply with legal regulations. Build trust by being transparent about what is being tracked and why. Ensure that the data collected is used ethically and responsibly.
8. Use Tracking to Support Employee Development
Use the insights gained from tracking to support employee development. Identify training needs, provide resources for skill development, and offer mentorship. Helping employees grow professionally not only boosts productivity but also enhances job satisfaction and retention.
9. Balance Flexibility and Accountability
In today’s flexible work environment, it’s essential to balance flexibility with accountability. Use tracking tools to ensure that employees meet their responsibilities while allowing them the flexibility to manage their work schedules. This balance can lead to higher morale and better work-life balance.
Conclusion
Tracking employees can significantly enhance productivity, ensure compliance, and maintain security when done correctly. By choosing the right tools, implementing clear policies, focusing on results, and respecting privacy, you can create a tracking system that benefits both the organization and its employees. Remember, the goal is to support and empower your workforce, leading to a more productive and positive work environment.
As the solar panel project leader for Clovis Hills Community Church, Wellman Shew is passionate about how solar power can benefit the planet and the economy. Here, Shew explains how he made solar power a reality for the CHCC.
Solar Power At CHCC
Wellman Shew didn’t just lead the solar panel project at CHCC—he managed to do it in a way that never interrupted the church’s operations. The CHCC campus now has one of the largest solar panel installations in the United States. The project has served as an example to the surrounding community of how economic, sustainable, and convenient the solar panel installation process can be.
The large-scale project required Wellman Shew to work closely with Barrier Solar Power Systems to determine logistics. At the start of the project, Barrier and Shew believed that a roof-mounted installation would be the best fit for the power needs of the church. As they delved into how the Church was planning to use its campus in the future, Shew and Barrier decided to pivot to a ground-mounted installation of solar panels instead.
The solar panel project at Clovis Hills Community Church was a massive success. Today, the Church uses the energy harnessed by its solar panels for nearly all of its electrical energy needs. Energy bills for the campus stay near $0 year-round, despite sky-high temperatures in the Clovis area. Church members are proud that their solar panel project allowed them to contribute to the health of the Earth while also contributing to the financial future of their church.
Most people have seen large solar panels on home roofs but are unsure how solar power actually works. The sun produces an incredible amount of energy. According to the United States Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “The amount of sunlight that strikes the earth’s surface in an hour and a half is enough to handle the entire world’s energy consumption for a full year.”
Solar panels harness the sun’s radiation and convert it into useable energy. All areas of the Earth receive sun at specific points of the year. Solar panels use a type of technology called photovoltaics, or PVs, to convert the sun’s energy into electricity. When the sun hits a solar panel, the radiation energy is absorbed by PV cells. An electrical field inside the cell interacts with the energy captured by the PV cells. This interaction allows useable electricity to flow through the solar panel.
While there is a cost associated with installing solar panels, many businesses, organizations, and homeowners find that they recoup their initial investment over a reasonably short period due to savings on electrical bills.
One of the things that Shantele Marcum has learned in life is the joy of volunteering. While volunteering is often done to help other people, it can also benefit the volunteer. Through it, she has learned how to connect with other people while improving her mental and physical strength. Below, she shares how volunteering can help you.
Benefits Your Body And Mind
Volunteering can benefit both your mental and physical health. For instance, it can help combat depression. One of the causes of depression is self-isolation. Volunteering allows you to interact with people, hence reducing loneliness. Besides that, volunteering can also help boost your self-confidence. This is something that Shantele Marcum experienced while volunteering with the American Lung Association. She says there is a sense of pride and identity that comes with helping others, which can boost your self-esteem.
Connects You To People
When you volunteer, you get connected with people in your society and make it a better area. Even when it is a smaller task, you can make a difference in the lives of people, organizations, and animals. It is a two-way street. You are helping other people and benefiting yourself at the same time. While volunteering her time helping the elderly, Shantele Marcum has not only connected with other volunteers but with the elderly community too. Being able to make new friends and expand your network can help boost your social skills.
Developing Your Skills
Through volunteering, you can develop skills you did not know you had. Some of those skills include:
Problem solving and adaptability
Time management
Communicating with stakeholders and clients
Leadership
Ability to work in a team
Sales skills
You can transfer these skills to the workplace and become a better boss or employee. If you have just finished school and you want to build your professional profile, you can do this through volunteering. It allows you to handle tasks that you might not be qualified for. For instance, you may help with managing a project or a fund drive, hence learning some skills along the way.
Get You Out Of Your Comfort Zone
Staying in your comfort zone can hold you back in many ways and make you miss out on opportunities. Through volunteering, you can leave your comfort zone and interact with people you do not know. Also, if you are faced with certain issues while volunteering, you may be forced to exercise critical thinking skills. This helps you in self-development.
Shantele Marcum Has Learned Invaluable Lessons Through Volunteering
One of the lessons that Shantele has learned through volunteering is that even small changes can have a huge impact. She saw this while donating Christmas gifts and money to Joseph’s home homeless shelter in Cleveland, Ohio. Seeing a smile on the people you help makes you realize just how much they value your time and assistance. In volunteering, you will also learn that everyone has their own story, hence deserving respect, love, and appreciation.
The joy you can bring to other people is one of the reasons you should join Shantelle Marcum in volunteering. You will be making a difference in the world.
Choosing an eCommerce store is a big decision. Your website is the backbone of your entire eCommerce business, and opting for the right platform for your business is necessary. As eCommerce has soared in popularity, several big brands have come to the forefront for hosted platforms. WooCommerce, Magneto, BigCommerce, and Shopify are some of the names we hear most often when it comes to high-quality eCommerce stores. While each business has its unique considerations, one webstore consistently comes out as a top all-around choice: Shopify. It is always best to go for an expert for Shopify Development.
Here are some benefits of Shopify for businesses:
Shopify is a great platform for various businesses and is incredibly versatile. Whether it’s new or experienced, both sellers alike can experience the benefits of Shopify. There are some benefits of using Shopify over other platforms including:
Quick, Easy Set-Up
If getting your business online quickly and easily is part of your objective, Shopify is one of the best platforms to assist. Setting up a Shopify store does not need any technical skills, and all of the software is offered right on the platform. The user interface is very user-friendly and spontaneous, making it easy to use right off the bat.
Customer Service
Experts are available to help you 24/7 with Shopify. They can assist to answer any questions you have about running their store. Community forums and other helpful documents can also be accessible through the Shopify Help Center. Compared to several other platforms, Shopify’s customer support is credible and easily available.
Mobile Friendly
With mobile shoppers on the rise, your webstore must be mobile-friendly. Shopify was designed with mobile responsiveness in mind, and your store will look impeccable regardless of the device used to access Shopify. Additionally, you can easily handle your entire Shopify store from their iOS or Android application.
Incredible Marketing and SEO Tools
Marketing is a very crucial part of eCommerce as well, and Shopify makes this aspect much more manageable. With Shopify, you have access to a variety of marketing tools like social media, email marketing, and product reviews. You can even use Shopify’s built-in tools to make discount coupons as well. Moreover, you can create outstanding landing pages for your Google Ads or PPC Social ads with Shopify. One of the Shopify offers is powerful SEO features that help you boost your website rank through a very clean code.
Security & Reliability
Security is crucial for protecting sensitive customer and company information. Shopify offers SSL certification and PCI to encrypt all information. With Shopify, you can assure all of the confident personal and financial information is protected and your website. Combine your payment service as well for a secure, reliable payment gateway that supports the Stripe payment option.
Flexibility
One of Shopify’s best qualities is its versatility. Shopify has a variety of built-in tools that make it easy to adapt to your business. With Shopify, you can showcase sale products, offer coupons, and customize shipping choices. Shopify includes helpful systems for fulfillment, shipping, payment, and inventory control as well. You can also control the look and feel of your store with hundreds of experts, free, and highly-customizable Shopify themes.
Eric Painter of Texas has watched architectural trends come and go throughout the years, including the obsession with “neutral” colors that persist within the design industry. As 2022 progresses, he expects many of these trends to stay similar, progressing, or disappearing, while others take their places. Here’s what he’s expecting throughout the year in the architectural world.
Eric Painter of Texas: Top 2022 Architectural Trends
The architectural world is one of constant change, Eric Painter of Texas says, though these changes may not occur from one year to the next. What he means by that statement is that architectural trends often stay stable throughout several years, with various changes in their implementation bringing new ideas and concepts that can create the newest and boldest trends 10 years later.
First, he imagines that the industrial style is likely to start fading out a little during 2022, as it has been around for several years already. That doesn’t mean it’s going to go away. Instead, you can imagine more symmetry to this style, a bit more professionalism, less reliance on plastic. Expect this trend to move towards brick and wood, instead, along with recycled metal like aluminum.
The simple lines, basic concepts, and minimal surface elements may remain popular in this movement for some time. That’s because it’s really only hitting its peak in recent years and has yet to see a blowback. The architectural world is like any creative field: things move in cycles. Eventually, a return to more elaborate styles will occur. But not yet, at least not in 2022 anyway.
On the same note, Eric Painter of Texas states that open and multipurpose spaces are going to stay strong in 2022 and far beyond. He could honestly see this trend staying current for many years or even indefinitely. It’s hard not to stick with open spaces in design concepts because they simply provide more diverse options for homeowners and create easier-to-adjust designs as well.
He expects that more multipurpose designs will become common, such as living rooms that also work as home theater areas, spare bedrooms, and even dining rooms. Anticipate multipurpose designs on home exteriors with porches also being used for storage sheds and much more. While this trend may get tiresome in the next five years, it’ll be still hip and chic in 2022 and at least for the next few years.
What about the tiny house movement? Have people given up on that yet? Eric Painter of Texas doesn’t think so. He believes that the enormous wave of interest from five years ago has died down a little, though, that period when everybody and their mother wanted a tiny house. At this point, it’s going to be limited to those people who truly want one and not those grabbing onto a fad.
Perhaps not surprisingly, he also anticipates that smart homes and automation will remain huge in architecture, particularly in tiny homes. With houses that compress so many living possibilities in such a small space, automation and smart options (like automatic under-bed storage shelves and security systems) will remain popular throughout 2022 and beyond.
The Restricted Application allows an individual to collect half of his or her spouse’s full Social Security benefit without having to open their own Social Security record. This allows the individual to earn an 8 percent credit on his or her retirement age benefit from the age of 66 to 70. The individual would then switch to his or her benefit at the age of 70.
“The major benefit is that during these four years, the individual can receive a 32 percent increase,” Darcy Bergen said. “However, it’s not available to everyone. This unique strategy was eliminated in the bipartisan budget act of 2015.”
You must be of retirement age to take advantage (66).
Your spouse must already have opened his or her retirement record and is currently claiming Social Security benefits.
A divorced individual can also take advantage of this strategy. However, the marriage must have lasted at least 10 years. The individual can not be remarried.
“I advise individuals to pursue this strategy one step at a time,” Bergen said. “Begin by checking that you meet the age criteria, then understand your spouse’s Social Security benefits and so on. It can be especially helpful to speak with a financial advisor about whether this strategy could work for you.”
Bergen explained that he has helped numerous clients locate additional income that can greatly help their families in retirement age. He and his team have the knowledge needed to find which benefits individuals may be missing.
“The most important aspect of filing for retirement benefits is to know your options before you complete filing,” Darcy Bergen concluded. “Filing before understanding your options could cause you to miss out on major benefits. You’ve worked tirelessly for this money, and you deserve all that you can receive in retirement.”
Bergen encouraged individuals in or nearing retirement age to contact DBA Bergen Financial Group to speak with a licensed professional about possible retirement strategies and benefits. Bergen has been in financial planning for decades. He entered the investment business at the age of 24 and began Clear Solutions LLC, DBA Bergen Financial Group in 2003. Bergen became a licensed fiduciary in 2015.
Darcy Bergen and his team currently practice in Peoria, Arizona. Contact them at (602) 652-2665 to set up an appointment and discuss your possible retirement benefits. Bergen and his strategists are also available to handle financial planning needs for clients of all ages, whether near retirement age or not.
Investment advisory and financial planning services offered through Simplicity Wealth, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Sub-advisory services are provided by Advisory Alpha, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance, Consulting and Education services offered through Bergen Financial Group. Bergen Financial Group is a separate and unaffiliated entity from Simplicity Wealth and Advisory Alpha.
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