My blog focuses on General Education. Some fortunate students get the experience of studying abroad. Before starting this adventure though, there are specific things to account for before you go. The following contributed post is entitled, From Acceptance to Arrival: A Complete Pre-Departure Checklist for Study Abroad.
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The email arrives. You’ve been accepted. Cue the screaming, the happy tears, the calls to grandma. But once the celebration dies down, reality peeks in. You’re not just going on holiday—you’re moving across borders. For months. Maybe years.
So, how do you get from “I got in!” to “I live here now”? You plan. But not just with lists and luggage. You prepare your life for this shift, piece by piece. Here’s how to do it properly without losing your mind—or your passport.
1. Lock In Your Paper Trail
Before anything else, gather your official documents. Not copies. Originals. You’ll need:
Acceptance letter
Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay)
Student visa
Vaccination records
Transcripts
Birth certificate (sometimes)
Now, make at least three copies of everything—digital and hard. Store one set in your carry-on, one in your checked luggage, and one back home with someone reliable. This sounds simple until you’re in a foreign immigration office, and someone asks for “the blue stamped copy you left on the kitchen table.”
2. Get Smart with Your Finances
You’re not just budgeting for books and noodles. Think rent, travel, emergencies, and—this one’s often missed—bank fees. Call your bank and ask: Will your card work abroad? What are the withdrawal limits? What about currency conversion fees?
Even better, open an international student bank account once you arrive. Many countries offer them, and they’re built to make your life easier.
And while you’re at it—set up alerts. You want to know if your card’s being used five countries away while you’re asleep in your dorm.
3. Secure Housing That Doesn’t Look Like a Crime Documentary
Photos lie. So before you sign anything, do your digging. Contact student forums, local groups, or even your university’s housing office. If possible, book short-term accommodation for your first week and hunt in person once you arrive.
It gives you time to breathe. And to avoid moving in next to that midnight saxophone player who practices scales on repeat.
4. Health First: Don’t Skip This Step
It’s not just about packing your vitamins. Every country has its own healthcare system—and access rules. This is where International student insurance becomes your safety net. A good plan doesn’t just tick a box for your visa; it covers real needs: emergency visits, prescriptions, and mental health services.
No one plans to get sick while figuring out how to order food in another language. But when it happens, you’ll be glad you didn’t cut corners here.
5. Pack Your Comfort Zone (Strategically)
Yes, bring your essentials—chargers, clothes, adapters—but don’t underestimate emotional logistics. Bring three things that make you feel at home. A photo, a favourite hoodie, your mom’s handwritten recipe. It’ll mean more than you think when culture shock creeps in. And no, you don’t need five pairs of shoes. You need space for souvenirs, spontaneous markets, and growth.
6. Say the Right Goodbyes
Before you jet off, take time to sit with people you love. Don’t let the chaos of packing erase the beauty of leaving well. These moments will ground you when homesickness hits.
Final Boarding Call
Studying abroad isn’t just about academia. It’s about stretching yourself in every direction. From paperwork to insurance to saying goodbye, every pre-departure step matters. It’s not just preparation—it’s transformation. And that journey begins long before your plane takes off.
My blog focuses on General Education. An area that is receiving a lot of interest today is education. Many are looking at the role that education plays in shaping tomorrow’s leaders. The following contributed post is entitled, Building a Brighter Future: The Role of Education in Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders.
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Education plays an incredibly important and influential role for students who are hopefully going to go on and become tomorrow’s leaders.
Building a brighter future for all children is something that many of us could hope for, and it’s what helps to keep the world spinning, too. But how important is education? What role does it play in helping nurture the future leaders in business?
With education, it can be a real help when it comes to improving any leadership qualities or skills that can be nurtured in an individual. Schools and educational institutions play a critical role in developing this skill, in particular, as well as adaptability, communication, and resilience.
Not only that, but the effort to make ethical decisions is also something that’s learnt through education.
While not everyone will be a leader, there are some who will still require that leadership attitude to take the lead in other aspects of life, beyond just the workplace.
Develops a global perspective
Being able to develop a global perspective is definitely something that can help an individual to become more rounded, more level-headed when it comes to leadership.
Education helps to expose students to different cultures, ideas, and perspectives. It helps to foster global citizenship and an understanding that more exists beyond just the four walls of their home or home country, for that matter.
Having a global perspective is more important and valuable than most people would consider.
Promotes lifelong learning
Education helps to equip individuals with the skills and motivation they need to continuously learn and adapt to ever-changing demands that come from the workforce. Regardless of what role they step into or the company they join, they will always be required to learn, to adapt, and to make changes to avoid the mistakes that come from simply being human.
That lifelong learning trait is one that can be really helpful to have, in more ways than one.
Cultivates ethical awareness and social responsibility
Education helps to instill many values. It’s one that can do a lot more than just teach the individual a lesson on Algebra or the Great Depression of 1929.
With education it helps to instill important values, like social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and integrity. It prepares students to become responsible beyond just their own lives. As global citizens, we all have a role to play in this life, and doing our best in that role is helped with education from an early age.
Joining somewhere like KIS International School can be a great opportunity to cultivate this awareness.
Helps with embracing innovation and technology
Embracing innovation and technology is something that education should include, especially within teaching methods. The future of work has changed dramatically over the years, and technology continues to be ever-present.
Students should be prepared for whatever is to come with technology and not shy away from its potential.
When building a brighter future, education plays a highly important part to play and is something that should certainly be encouraged regardless of interest or accessibility.
My blog focuses on General Education and Entertainment/New Talent. Music is potentially the most rewarding artform there is, and a very powerful one. At some point you have to specialize with one area, but which one should it be? The following contributed post is entitled, How Do You Determine What Musician You Should Be.
It’s fair to say there are multiple musical genres out there, all of them with something wonderful to offer. They also move in cycles. It’s arguable that for a time, hip-hop was as culturally significant than the chokehold rock had during the 90s and early 2000s.
Moreover, with the advent of AI tools and the ability to self-release music online (no matter what you think about both), experimenting and learning the basics of how to produce music is more possible than ever.
But how do you determine what kind of music you should make, and what musician you should be? Well, in some respects, these decisions are made naturally for you. It’s not as if artist pick from a completely blank canvas, their interests, tastes and background will absolutely play a part. But that doesn’t mean you have to make dancehall music simply because you were born in Jamaica. There is a wide valley of options out there and you can experiment with multiple art forms if you home to.
But how do you determine where to begin in the interim? Let’s discuss that, below:
Consider The Genres & Artists You Most Love
You’d be surprised how many people skip right past the music that actually moves them and try to chase what they think will be popular or profitable instead. It’s fine if the artists you find yourself coming back to over and over again, whose songs you know every word to without even trying are probably giving you some pretty clear signals about what resonates with you musically.
So if you’ve been obsessed with Radiohead for years and always wondered how they create such layered, atmospheric soundscapes, or perhaps you can’t get enough of how certain jazz pianists make even the most complex progressions work, that’s a sign.
Pay attention to what you listen to when you’re driving alone, what you put on when you’re cleaning the house, or what you reach for when you need comfort after a rough day. These choices are often telling you something about the kind of musical energy you connect with. You might discover you’re drawn to the storytelling aspect of folk music, for example, and want to express yourself that way.
What Music News Do You Gravitate To?
The music blogs and publications you find yourself reading without being prompted to can reveal a lot about where your interests really lie, even if you haven’t been thinking about it consciously. If you’re always checking sites like DLK Longue for the latest in low fi and jazz news, you’re probably someone who values discovering new sounds. If you like reading Resident Advisor, which is to do with techo, house and electronic music, that might be an indication of your preference.
Of course it’s not just about vibe either, because some people are fascinated by the business side of music and find themselves reading about label deals and industry trends. That might still surround a certain industry. You could also be more interested in the cultural impact of certain movements or how specific scenes developed in different cities, how like Northern Soul came to be.Again, this can direct you.
Which Instruments & Sounds Are You Drawn To?
You might find that you’re drawn to instruments you’ve never even played but always found lovely to listen to, such as being inspired by how saxophone can sound both smooth and gritty depending on how it’s played, or how certain piano voicings can make chord progressions feel sophisticated and complex.
You don’t have to limit yourself to instruments you already know how to play either, because part of finding your musical identity involves being willing to explore new sounds and techniques that intrigue you. You might have been playing guitar for five years but take to violin like nothing else, for instance. So don’t limit yourself.
How Do You Like To Perform?
Some musicians find themselves loving their presence in front of crowds and feed off that energy, but it’s fine if you just prefer the more limited setting of a small room, or even to have a “persona” like MF Doom or Slipknot or Sleep Token or many other bands that have specific uniforms of outfits for their art.
As you can see, sometimes the theatrical aspects of performance with visual elements and storytelling can make you larger than life. There’s a reason Elton John wore such huge and loud outfits, because that’s how he felt his music should be connected with. If you like to perform in a certain way or have been thinking about it, that could be a possible nudge in the right direction!
What Do You Have To Say?
Music doesn’t always have to carry a deep message, but most interesting music comes from artists who have some kind of perspective or experience they want to share, even if it’s just about creating a certain feeling or atmosphere. Lyricicism is poetry for the most part, and can be very personal to you even if no one is going to understand it.
You can also have emotions you want to explore through your art, or observations about the world that feel important to you. You don’t have to monologue like Bob Dylan does of course, that’s the great thing about your music, you can express yourself in more than just sentences or words. But saying something is appropriate, again, even if it’s just an emotion through instrumental. But it is important to consider what you have to present no matter the project, unless you’re putting together an album about vapid, vague statements completely, which could be its own form of art, too.
What Are Your Strengths?
Being honest about what you’re naturally skilled with can help you find musical directions that play to those strengths while still challenging you to grow. Now, that doesn’t mean you are required to be a maestro at the bass guitar, but having a great ear for melody, a natural sense of rhythm, or a voice that can flutter in the right places could be a good sign. You just might be someone who’s really good at hearing how different instruments can work together in a mix, or perhaps you just you have strong instincts about song structure and pacing. It all counts, and you should lean on that.
Which Gigs Have You Most Enjoyed?
If you’ve had opportunities to play music in different settings, it’s healthy to think about which experiences left you feeling energized and excited, and of course, which ones felt like work or made you uncomfortable. Perhaps you loved playing background music at a coffee shop because it gave you space to experiment and try new things without pressure, or perhaps you discovered you love screaming into a mic while it rains, shirtless, with a guitar on a strap and your backup band going hard with you.
Many artist will find that certain types of venues or audiences bring out different aspects of your musical personality. Think about how Kurt Cobain often was on stage and also how he came across during his iconic MTV Unplugged performance, where he showed a whole different side to him and his art. But to explore these parts of yourself you really do have to be open to explore them, and to get out there with confidence to explore the best outcome.
What Tools Do You Have Access To?
Now and again the practical considerations, and better yet limitations, can help you challenge yourself. The truth is that if you have access to a full recording studio with vintage analog equipment, something might be lost than when you were recording tracks into your downloaded audio software through a simple mic. Work with what you have, even if you get the free license of production software for Christmas and that’s it.
Believe it or not, sometimes having fewer options actually leads to more interesting results because you’re forced to be creative within those constraints, which can help artists in any industry, like when an author has their work edited down to improve the pacing of the plot and the narrative.
What Theory Do You Know?
Your level of formal musical training will definitely influence how you approach creating music, but it doesn’t have to determine what kind of music you make. If you have a strong background in classical theory, you you may want to showcase more complex harmonic progressions and arrangements, but you could just as easily use that knowledge to create surprisingly simple music that gets maximum impact too.
It’s fine if you don’t know music theory of course, because if you’re mostly self-taught and work more intuitively, you could find you already have a natural feel for certain patterns or musical shapes that trained musicians sometimes ignore or just think too much about to overdo it. In general, we’d say that to break the rules well it’s always good to know what they are, and there’s no harm that comes from learning music theory (it can frame what you’re trying to do for the better), but it could hamper you not to learn. Moreover, learning it can also inspire you in certain directions you’re more keen on.
With this advice, we hope you can more easily determine what musician you should be, or rather, what you hope to be.
My blog focuses on Financial Literacy/Money and General Education. Higher education comes at a cost for everyone. If you don’t have a free ride, then you’ll have to figure out how to cover the costs of your education. The following contributed post is entitled, How To Pay Your Way Through College.
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Whether you are just about to start college, or you are already in the midst of it, it’s important to make sure that you are thinking ahead financially and doing all you can to make things work. This is one of the most challenging aspects of further education for anyone, and there are a lot of things that you will need to make sure you are thinking about if you are trying to do this right. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the things you can do to help pay your way through college more effectively and easily.
Regardless of where you are in the world, there is almost certainly going to be some help you can get either from the national government or a local government programme, and it’s really important to make sure that you are checking these. You should certainly try to get hold of any student aid that you think you might be eligible for, because that is going to make a huge difference to how you can pay your way through college. So this is something that is really going to be important for you to think about in all of this.
Get A Loan
A lot of people find that they do still need to borrow to get through college, even if they also have student aid and other kinds of help. One of the most common kinds of borrowing that students have to go for is a loan, and you might want to consider your options here as soon as possible so you know what’s out there. It’s worth looking at the likes of Ascent Funding if you want to make sure that you are aware of what you can get, and this could have the effect of helping you greatly.
There are a lot of scholarships out there, and it’s always worth making sure that you are applying for these if you want to know where you are. These are not only for straight-A students or star athletes – there are all kinds of scholarships for all kinds of students, and there’s a pretty good chance that you should be able to get hold of one if you put your mind to it. But if you don’t apply for any, then there is a zero chance. It’s always worth putting yourself out there to see what comes back.
Work Part Time
Finally, a lot of students still have to work a little as well to help pay their way, and this may be something that you want to consider. If you can work part-time from time to time, that is probably going to make a huge difference and you should find that you are able to really make it work for your college degree all in all. So this is something that is really worth thinking about as well which could make the whole process so much easier to get through.
My blog focuses on General Education. Education is a critical part of all our lives. The reality though is that it is not a one size fits all thing. So students use non-traditional routes and take alternatives pathways. The following contributed post is entitled, It’s Time to Break Up with the Traditional School System.
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We were raised to believe there was only one way to get educated: go to school, sit in rows, memorize, test, graduate, repeat. For some, that worked just fine. But for many others, including late bloomers, independent thinkers, and neurodiverse learners, it didn’t. It left them feeling like square pegs in round holes, pushed through a system that wasn’t built for them.
But here’s the thing: it’s 2025, and the rules have changed. Education isn’t one-size-fits-all anymore, and for a growing number of people, that’s a very good thing. Whether you’re a parent rethinking your child’s future or an adult reconsidering your own, these alternative approaches might just be the fresh start you need.
Boarding Schools: A Structured Path with Room to Grow
Boarding schools have often been misunderstood, either seen as elitist or as last resorts. But in reality, the right boarding school can be a lifeline for students who need structure, community, and space to thrive outside the limitations of traditional day schools.
These schools offer more than academics, they foster independence, personal responsibility, and deeper connections between students and teachers. For kids who are highly motivated, easily distracted at home, or simply need a fresh environment, boarding school can be transformative.
Of course, finding the right one is key. You want a school that understands today’s student, one that builds resilience, encourages critical thinking, and supports wellbeing. Institutions like KIS offer student-centered environments designed for a new generation of learners, blending strong academics with emotional support and global outlook.
Online Education: Learning on Your Terms
Not everyone learns best in a classroom. Not everyone can learn in a classroom. That’s where online education steps in, offering flexibility, accessibility, and the power to shape your learning around your life.
Whether it’s remote high school programs, virtual university degrees, or specialized platforms that teach everything from business writing to astrophysics, online education gives learners control. You can work at your own pace, revisit content as needed, and often explore subjects more deeply than a traditional class allows.
Going Back to School, When You’re Actually Ready
For some, school didn’t work out the first time around. Maybe life got in the way. Maybe you weren’t sure who you were or what you wanted. And maybe now, with more perspective, you’re ready to return, not to fix the past, but to build the future.
Going back to school as an adult brings a different kind of clarity. You choose the program because it matters to you. You study because you want to, not because someone told you to. Whether it’s community college, an evening course, or an online degree, returning to education later in life is often more empowering than doing it young and uncertain.
The Pick-and-Mix Approach to Lifelong Learning
What if you don’t want a full degree? What if you just want to learn Korean for fun, or get a cybersecurity certification to pivot careers?
The pick-and-mix approach is about adults selecting exactly what they want to learn, when they want to learn it. It’s efficient, targeted, and purpose-driven. And it challenges the outdated notion that education has to be a four-year program with a fixed curriculum.
It’s not about ticking boxes, it’s about curiosity, ambition, and self-development. And honestly, isn’t that what education should be all about?
Walking away from the traditional school model isn’t quitting, it’s choosing something better. Whether it’s boarding, online, delayed, or bite-sized, modern education is about choice. And for the first time in generations, that choice is finally ours to make.
My blog focuses on General Education. Students who are pursuing a white collar education, have dream schools which they want to attend above all others. There is typically a lot of competition for these schools. The following contributed post is entitled, How To Increase Your Chances Of Getting Accepted To Your Dream School.
However, in order to enjoy these benefits, you need to get accepted into your dream school, first. With that in mind, here are some steps that you can take to increase your chances of getting accepted when applying to colleges.
Take practice exams. If you need to take a test, such as a math assessment, in order to be offered a place at your chosen college or university – don’t leave your success to chance. Instead, do as much practice for college math prep as you can, such as by taking practice exams. This way, you’ll increase your chances of getting a good grade on the day while also reducing any anxieties you have about the test itself
Remember that your GPA isn’t everything. While your GPA will play a key role in the college admissions process, it is not the only thing that the admissions board will be looking for when scouring applications. They’ll also want to take on students who are enthusiastic forward-thinkers who are participating in a range of extracurricular activities, too. Ideally, you should ensure that your extracurricular activities align with the program you’d like to join. For example, if you want to join a performing arts course, being part of your local drama club is a great starting point.
Write a fantastic college essay. While this can vary, your college essay typically accounts for 25% of your overall application. This means that a well-written essay can dramatically increase your chances of being accepted into your dream school. For this reason, you should put a great deal of time and energy into constructing the perfect college essay.
Remember to:
● Write the essay with a clear message or theme in mind. ● Ask for advice from teachers and academic essays when writing and editing the essay. ● Carefully check your essay for spelling and grammar mistakes, repealed phrases, or difficult-to-read passages. ● Start the essay with an interesting hook in order to capture the reader’s attention.
Volunteer. Volunteering experience can also increase your chances of getting accepted into your dream school. This is because it shows the admissions board that you are a considerate and committed individual with strong values. Fortunately, while it can be time-consuming, volunteering can be a lot of fun, especially when you are supporting a cause that is close to your heart. If possible, you should reference your volunteering efforts in your college essay.
Final thoughts. It is normal to feel nervous when you start sending out college applications. After all, a lot is riding on receiving that acceptance letter (or email). However, there are plenty of steps that you can take to increase your chances of getting accepted into your dream school, from practicing for entry exams to volunteering with local charities and nonprofits.
My blog focuses on General Education. True education doesn’t stop after receiving a diploma or certificate. It continues on with every new experience and project. The following contributed post is entitled, Unlocking Your Full Potential: The Power of Lifelong Learning.
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In an ever-changing world, pursuing knowledge and self-improvement is no longer just a phase; it has turned into continuous learning. Lifelong learning has become a fundamental part of personal and professional success. It gives the individual the ability to stay relevant, adapt to change, and unlock their potential. Whether you are looking to advance your career, switch interests, freeze, or simply improve yourself, the importance of continuous learning cannot be overstated.
The world is always changing: advancements in technology, shifts in global markets, and new innovations are constantly reshaping industries and the skills required to thrive within them. In this dynamic environment, relying solely on past knowledge is not sufficient. Lifelong learning allows you to keep pace with these changes, enabling you to gain new skills, enhance existing ones, and stay competitive in your field or learn a new one. On top of this, continuous learning isn’t just about gaining technical knowledge; it’s also about developing soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These qualities can help you excel in teamwork and also improve your emotional intelligence.
The Impact of Lifelong Learning
In today’s job market, those who take the opportunity to continuously learn are the ones who succeed. Employers value employees who show initiative and are committed to self-improvement. Learning new skills demonstrates that you have a strong work ethic and are adaptable, which can lead to pay raises, promotions, or even new job opportunities. Additionally, continuous learning helps you stay ahead of the competition in an increasingly competitive job-hunting environment.
Kino College: A Valuable Resource for Your Learning Journey
If you are committed to growing your knowledge and skill set, then investing in high-quality educational resources is important. Kino College stands out as a fantastic resource for those who are looking to enrich their lives through learning, with a variety of courses designed for different interests and career paths. Kino College offers flexible learning that can help develop expertise in many different fields. By enrolling in courses at Keno College, you can gain access to a supportive and structured environment that helps you grow personally. Whether you are looking to master a specific skill and obtain certifications or just engage in intellectual curiosity, Kino College provides resources that can help you gain lifelong learning skills.
Make Lifelong Learning a Habit
The key to lifelong learning is making it something that is considered a habit. This doesn’t mean that you need to be in school forever or take on huge projects; rather, it is a commitment to take online courses, attend workshops, read more, or even engage in professional networking. Taking small but actionable steps that incorporate learning into your daily routine will help you see a gradual impact on your life and your career.
In conclusion, the power of lifelong learning cannot be denied. Whether you are looking to improve your career or personal development, lifelong learning ensures that you are prepared for anything the future may bring. Invest in your growth today, and you may be amazed by the opportunities that open up for you in the future.
Hello. Thank you for clicking on this link, and I hope you enjoy this essay. Writing a book was the genesis of my blogging and becoming a video content creator. I have published part one of my book project entitled, The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. It is currently available on Amazon in eBook, hardcover, and paperback formats. Shortly I will be selling signed hardcover and paperback copies on my online store entitled Big Words Authors. You can place an order now if you want a signed copy. There is also a page discussing the book. Please consider visiting it to learn more about the project and see promotional content I’ve created surrounding the project. And now on to our feature presentation.
Recalling Jenny’s Words of Encouragement
“I’ve seen some of the financial writings you post on Facebook, Anwar, and I don’t like them!” I described the scathing words of an acquaintance I’ll anonymously call Jenny in my previous piece addressing whether wealth building is supposed to be boring. Jenny was a lawyer who I had known for years. We weren’t what I would consider close personally, but her words surprised me and were worth capturing.
I knew Jenny well enough to know why my financial writings caused her angst. At the time, my writings encouraged smart money management and planning, and some would consider it all frugal. Frugal is a word often confused with being cheap. I wrote a piece about misconceptions surrounding frugality and am linking it here. Jenny’s words inspired this piece, in addition to those of my mentor.
My Mentor’s Words After a Recent Discussion
“You should get to a point where you feel joy watching your investments grow. Saving for the sake of saving is just suffering after a while.” My anonymous mentor shared these words towards the end of one of our financial discussions. We discussed my retirement account, which was on track, and also a discretionary stock portfolio that he and his son helped me build.
By the way, if you don’t have mastery of the stock market and the time to watch the gazillion companies/positions you can buy, it’s best to leverage the knowledge and wisdom of an expert. I don’t have the expertise or time to do it myself, but I have benefited from the expertise of others.
Spending, Needs, and Wants
“You should get to a point where you feel joy watching your investments grow. Saving for the sake of saving is just suffering after a while.” My mentor’s words were powerful. There should be some enjoyment after diligently saving, controlling credit card debt, and making financial investments. This is obvious for savvy investors. However, for a person not used to spending, there is a bit of a paradigm shift there.
Does it sound strange that a person is not used to spending? It should not because some people don’t have lofty and vast wants. I’ve often pondered that some people from humble beginnings retain the thought patterns that they grew up with. Others move entirely in the other direction and spend to their heart’s content, sometimes uncontrollably. One of the key lessons in money management is knowing the difference between needs and wants. Many people today don’t know the difference between the two, nor how to defer gratification. If you are wise with your finances, you should eventually find some enjoyment, and it shouldn’t be just suffering.
What’s Next? What’s Enjoyment for You?
So what do you do after you’ve saved up a sizable emergency fund, stock portfolio, and retirement savings, which are also clicking on all cylinders? Do you go sailing around the world? Do you buy a new car? Do you start frequenting five-star restaurants? Do you start a family if you haven’t yet started one? The answer is different for everyone. I would say to be mindful of what got you there first and not depart entirely from it, especially if it wasn’t handed to you and you built it yourself from nothing.
The latter point is significant because it suggests that money management is essential. Some people are handed inheritances and never have to build anything. Some people inherit wealth and squander it. Others likewise have to make everything themselves. Management is likewise a critical component if you are building wealth yourself or if it was given to you and you need to maintain it. The take-home message is to experience some enjoyment once you’ve practiced being wise with your financial resources.
Can You Afford a $400 Expense?
“I don’t know where Anwar will go on his dollar budget!” Jenny took another verbal jab at me during an impromptu lunch years after declaring that she disapproved of my financial writings. I was surprised but not surprised when she said what she said. I didn’t get angry. Instead, I was amused.
In hindsight, financial and investment plans are like college and professional football offenses. Some offenses are designed to score points quickly in flashy ways. It looks impressive, though this strategy has disadvantages for the entire team. Other offenses are designed to methodically work the ball down the field while grinding down the clock. They’re not as flashy as the former, but they have many advantages for the offense and defense of a particular team.
My offense was the latter, designed to put various safety measures in place before indulging myself a little bit more. An important article was published in the Washington Post years ago. It was entitled, The Shocking Number of Americans Who Can’t Afford a $400 Expense. The article highlighted a bar chart breaking down various ethnic groups by income bracket. Surprisingly, roughly 20% of people making six figures or more couldn’t afford a $400 expense. That doesn’t make sense. I’ll leave you with a question. How do you, the reader, explain such a phenomenon?
Closing Thoughts
“You want to reach a point where you should enjoy watching your investments grow. Saving for the sake of saving is just suffering after a while.” I’m closing this piece with my financial team’s profound words. They are similar to Dave Ramsey’s famous slogan, “We’re going to live like no one else so that we later can live like no one else!”
I think this is a valuable message for multiple groups. For the financially responsible persons out there, know that at some point you should be able to enjoy yourself a little bit more, but again, don’t forget what got you to where you are, as you can easily slide back to where you came from. For those looking suspiciously at people who are frugal and not reckless with their finances, think about whether those people are building and trying to go somewhere in particular. Also, look at yourselves. Are you financing your lifestyle using credit cards and revolving balances? Also, will you have money for your later years?
I wanted to make these latter points and highlight those from my acquaintance Jenny’s scathing choice words for a specific reason. I have a hunch that others like her judged me over the years over my careful spending and lack of consumption. To dig myself out of a massive debt hole, I went without a car starting in 2012 up through the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition to being encouraged to be hyper-consumers, many people don’t have a long-term perspective or the ability to ask where a person is going and what they are building toward. All that matters is the here and now. Thank you for reading this. Please leave any comments or thoughts below.
The Big Words LLC
For the next phase of my writing journey, I’m starting a monthly newsletter for my writing and video content creation company, the Big Words LLC. In it, I plan to share inspirational words and pieces from this blog and my first blog, as well as select videos from my four YouTube channels. Finally, I will share updates for my book project, The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. Your personal information and privacy will be protected. Click this link and register using the sign-up button at the bottom of the announcement. If there is some issue signing up using the link provided, email me at bwllcnl@gmail.com . Best Regards.
My blog focuses on Career Discussions and General Education. Jobs are critical parts of our lives. If you are looking for your dream job, there are things you can do to ensure that you find and secure it. The following contributed post is entitled, 5 Secrets to Landing Your Dream Job.
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It’s a wonderful life when you find yourself in a job that you love and don’t even consider to be work. Landing that dream job though can be a journey and you may not find that dream job from the moment you leave education. You may have to start from the bottom of the career ladder and work hard to get to that dream job.
If you’re planning to secure a dream job, then here are five secrets that might help with your path to success.
The experience and skills that are required when it comes to landing your dream job are important. That’s why it’s imperative to work on acquiring those skills and the experience in good time.
It’s worthwhile looking at what your dream job is after. Look at the skills you need and assess whether this is something you possess currently or something you need to work on. Consider your existing experience so far and look at ways in which you can build upon that in the future and as you move towards your dream career or job.
Network with those in the industry
Networking is an essential part of finding success in your career. The more you network, the more opportunities you’ll likely find land on your lap. Doors may be opened that were previously closed or not even available to you.
The more networking opportunities you can take advantage of, the better it plays into your hands when looking for success.
Set goals
Goals are something that can be incredibly helpful to implement for the benefit of landing the job of your dreams. With goals, there’s a lot more motivation in everything you do because ultimately, you’re holding yourself accountable to acquiring that success.
When setting goals, think about what you want to achieve and how realistic that is. It’s important to set goals that are realistic and not out of the remit of possibility.
Interview prep is essential
Interview prep is an important one for landing your dream job because you want to be incredibly prepared for whatever job it is you’re going for. You also want to go through the right agencies and organizations to secure the interview itself. Using a service like Origin Legal will be helpful for securing niche roles in the legal domain.
Having such a specialism within recruitment can be helpful in preparing fully for the interview itself.
We strongly recommend that you check that everything is in order before your interview as well. By this, we mean you want to ensure that your credit report and your background check have come back as they should. What some people don’t realize is that for some positions a healthy credit report is necessary, and without one you can be passed up or let go, making it imperative that everything is as it should be. If this happens falsely or unfairly, you need to get in touch with credit report attorneys to assist you, and let the company themselves know also.
Trust the process
It’s important to trust the process when it comes to landing your dream job. It might be that your expectations aren’t met as early on as you thought but if you believe in yourself and your passions, you’ll achieve that dream job eventually with hard work.
These secrets will hopefully help you to achieve your dream job in good time. Use these tips to maximize your efforts in securing a job that you love to do.
Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. A career in the construction sector can be very lucrative, and this sector will continue evolving over time. The following contributed post is entitled, Exciting Career Opportunities In Construction And What To Expect.
The construction industry offers a wealth of career opportunities, catering to a wide range of interests, skill sets, and professional goals. Whether you’re drawn to designing structures, managing projects, or physically building the environments we live and work in, construction provides a dynamic and rewarding career path. This article explores the variety of roles available in the sector, the skills needed to succeed, and what to expect from a career in construction.
The Scope of Careers in Construction
Construction is one of the most diverse industries, encompassing various specialties. Some of the key career paths include:
1. Skilled Trades
Skilled trades are the backbone of the construction industry. These roles include carpenters, electricians, plumbers, masons, and steelworkers. Professionals in these fields are responsible for executing specific tasks, often requiring years of hands-on experience or apprenticeships.
2. Project Management
Construction project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects. They manage budgets, timelines, and teams, ensuring that all elements come together efficiently. A strong understanding of the construction process and excellent leadership skills are essential for this role.
3. Architecture and Design
Architects and designers focus on conceptualizing and planning structures, balancing aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They collaborate with engineers and construction teams to bring their designs to life.
4. Engineering
Structural, civil, and mechanical engineers play critical roles in construction projects. They ensure that buildings are safe, durable, and meet regulatory standards. Engineers often specialize in specific types of projects, such as bridges, skyscrapers, or residential buildings.
5. Equipment Operation and Maintenance
Construction equipment operators handle machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators. Proper operation of these machines is essential for safety and efficiency on-site.
6. Safety and Compliance
Safety officers and compliance specialists are responsible for ensuring that construction sites adhere to health, safety, and environmental regulations. Their work minimizes risks and protects workers, equipment, and the surrounding environment.
Skills Needed for Success
A career in construction requires a mix of technical knowledge, physical ability, and interpersonal skills. Key competencies include:
● Technical Skills: Proficiency in specific tools, equipment, and techniques is crucial for skilled tradespeople and equipment operators. For architects and engineers, expertise in design software and building codes is essential. ● Problem-Solving: Construction projects often encounter unexpected challenges. Creative and practical problem-solving skills help professionals adapt and keep projects on track. ● Communication: Construction involves collaboration among diverse teams. Effective communication ensures everyone understands project goals, timelines, and responsibilities. ● Physical Stamina and Dexterity: Many construction jobs are physically demanding, requiring strength, coordination, and endurance. ● Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in construction to ensure safety, quality, and adherence to specifications. ● Leadership: For roles in management and supervision, the ability to lead and motivate teams is indispensable.
Working in construction can be both challenging and rewarding. Here’s what you can anticipate:
1. Dynamic Work Environments
Construction sites are dynamic and often change daily as projects progress. Depending on your role, you may work indoors, outdoors, or a mix of both. Weather conditions, site hazards, and tight deadlines can add to the complexity of the job.
2. Job Security
Construction is a cornerstone of the global economy. As populations grow and urbanization continues, the demand for construction professionals remains strong. Skilled workers, in particular, are often in high demand.
3. Career Growth Opportunities
The construction industry offers numerous paths for career advancement. For instance, skilled tradespeople can move into supervisory roles, while project managers may take on larger or more complex projects. Many companies also provide on-the-job training and support for certifications or degrees.
4. Earnings Potential
Compensation in construction varies widely depending on role, location, and experience. Skilled trades and specialized roles, such as crane operators or safety inspectors, often command competitive salaries. Management and engineering roles typically offer higher earnings, reflecting the increased responsibility.
5. Focus on Safety
Safety is a top priority in construction. Workers are equipped with protective gear such as Construction Helmets, gloves, and harnesses to minimize risks. Companies invest heavily in training and procedures to ensure workplace safety.
6. Physical and Mental Demands
Construction work can be physically taxing, requiring heavy lifting, climbing, and extended hours of standing or walking. Mental demands, such as managing stress, multitasking, and solving complex problems, are also part of the job.
In Conclusion
A career in construction is more than just building structures; it’s about creating environments that shape our daily lives. With opportunities ranging from hands-on trades to high-level management, the industry offers something for everyone. By cultivating the right skills, prioritizing safety, and embracing growth opportunities, you can build a fulfilling career in this essential field. Whether you’re starting out or considering a shift, construction promises a path rich with possibilities.
