In a world where the price of nothing decreases, and you sometimes find yourselves in difficult positions and struggle to get through the month with one paycheck, it is, unfortunately, a reality for many individuals.
Planning finances and managing funds effectively can help with these types of problems.
If the management of funds isn’t the issue, maybe obtain a second source of income to secure your lifestyle and assure you never lose what you need the most – like your property or vehicles or anything contributing to your needs.
Have a look at some alternatives for when finances are tight and how we can manage it better.
Without a doubt, anyone should be able to fairly and accurately predict your future expenses as well as income. This should be done every three months and should be checked monthly to ensure that your predictions are correct.
Some areas of your budget might need some fine-tuning at first, so ensure you keep your slips and calculate what you spend on a monthly basis. This should include groceries, electricity, fuel, and everything you pay monthly. Unexpected expenses will arise, so don’t be afraid of them – just plan for them!
Make sure you save some money, preferably in an alternative account, for when disaster strikes. This will be covered by your unencumbered cash and won’t affect your budget. This isn’t the only thing you need to save for – maybe open an investment that can hold money for your retirement if your employer hasn’t already done this. Treat these savings payments as an expense and not an option because you will need them.
If the above is just not possible, as in many cases all over the world, you need to start with finding a second income.
It can be anything from a second job to starting something of your own. Also, a useful way of obtaining a second income is by Trading Forex, which refers to the buying, selling, and exchanging of foreign currencies at a specific rate. Some investors regularly get returns of more than 10% of their initial investment.
This can go a long way, especially if your Forex Trading income is solely used for saving, and only using it once you’re no longer able to work for a salary. You might think that it’s too little too late, but in a few years with knowledgeable trading, a small amount could accumulate to become a hefty payout.
So in many cases, individuals start saving until the savings amount becomes slightly higher than they’re normally used to. At any cost, don’t use your retirement savings for any other purposes other than retirement.
Everyone believes they’re still young, and they will start saving for this later in life, but unfortunately, it doesn’t always pan out this way.
Many individuals realize too late in life that all the work they’ve done now suddenly doesn’t mean much. Not having savings to back you up, and, in some instances where there is no one to support you, you will not get very far, and the peaceful world you desired comes tumbling down on you.
Preparing for our old age is of the utmost importance as this is what most of us work for our entire life. Not having anything to fall back on should not be an option for anyone. So, always save and discipline yourself with your savings, as it could maybe save you a lot of trouble one day.
*****
Poetess Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 30 books and a publisher for Jamaica Pen Publishers.
She is a freelance writer for online publications such as Revealing the Christian Life, Jamaica Rose, Entertainment Trail, My Trending Stories among others.
Check out her book How to Keep Writing
This book shares key practical strategies on how to become an author and a working writer. It helps you to get over the everyday nuisances that hinder the writing process. You can follow each strategy, at your own pace until you are writing frequently. It is geared towards both aspiring fiction and nonfiction authors and working writers who produce content, on a daily basis.
Available at all online book retailers and Amazon.com.
Follow her on:
Copyright © 2021, Denise N. Fyffe
by Denise N. Fyffe
Article: A wider field of opportunity: a bigger and better Jamaica in the CSME
Author: Dr. Dennis Benn
Source: Jamaica Observer Special Feature
Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean is stepping into the 21st century with well-made plans and promises to transition into a global community and pool resources to better survive the economic climate. One of the fast-approaching solutions is the Caribbean Single Market Economy (CSME).
Dr. Dennis Benn, the author of this article, proves like many to educate the populace about the CSME and to stress the immediacy of its coming. Identifying and opening our eyes to the fact that this, the CSME, is not a strange occurrence in the global society, and that there are benefits to member states that choose to forge ahead in this venture.
The implementation of the Caribbean Single Market is not a strategy that can be implemented by night but takes years to carefully put into place, so that the region can best benefit from its bounty.
Dr. Benn approaches his article by highlighting the past societies, which have joined together to create their own global community. The European Union is by far the more recent and popular example that comes to mind, but others such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the Andean Common Market (ACM); are also examples of economic cooperation among developing countries.
Benn also pointed out that few countries opt to stand outside of some sort of cooperative strategy. However, with the onset of globalization and economic liberalization, it would be difficult for small economies to survive without regional economic integration. The article posits that the basic advantage of this integration is that of optimized development potential and a stronger bargaining position in the international economic arena.
The author, Dr. Benn carefully gave a historical illustration of the establishment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in 1973, and due to its success, an agreement was developed among its members, the prospects of the Caribbean Single Market (CSME).
He laid out that there should be a Single Market in play by 2005 and a Single Economy in 2008, as well as other policies being adopted. The CSME is not without its critics, which identify the region’s poor inter-Caribbean trading and that our main trade has been with extra-regional markets. However, due to our wide range of resources, we have the potential to become one of the wealthiest regions. Such resources include petroleum, natural gas, bauxite, forestry, gold, diamonds, and tourism among others, which are significant capitals that no other region can brag about.
So far, Dr. Benn indicates that Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago have set plans in motion.
These plans comprise or deal with preparation for the region’s integration. Jamaica and other Caribbean countries can participate in bauxite ventures. Trinidad and Tobago have proposals to develop its aluminum sector.
Trinidad and Tobago, along with Suriname and Guyana may have the resources, which have been so far supplied, from external sources.
According to Benn, if these resources are abundant then it will be a key factor. This determining factor, of an abundance of resources, balances the success and significant improvement for the region.
Lastly, he also concluded by positing that production and trade integration in the Caribbean has great possibilities and will lead to a positive change in the living standards for the Caribbean people.
He looked at the Caribbean Single Market (CSME) shining a positive light on Caribbean society.
In creating a foundation in his article, he referred to the development of the varying regional integrations; he has shown that these strategies are not new and that they do have benefits. Indeed, the CSME will bring greater opportunity, and he has identified this at the corporate level; however, he has not presented this information to the layman in our country.
The author has not given details of how it will make the lives of ordinary men and women ‘bigger and better’.
He could have included examples for these types of people to understand the possibilities the CSME would bring. As the newspaper reaches thousands o people it would have been a great forum to educate the ordinary man. Not many people have been exposed to the other facets of the CSME. They have mostly heard about the Caribbean Court of Justice and the political disagreement of its implementation and role in Jamaica.
Mention could also have been given to the impact on career potential in the region.
With the integration comes another vehicle of career development in the Caribbean. Job opportunities, investments, a boom in other economic sectors and industries are just some of the basic and foundational benefits of this type of integration. The developments will not only stop at the corporate level, as the author could have shown, but they will filter down to the schools, homes, and communities that struggle to survive daily.
He did not utilize his forum to educate effectively, the Jamaican and Caribbean people. Dr. Benn, being a professor of Public Affairs could have made this feature article more interesting and relative to the ‘ordinary’ lower-middle to lower class people. Specific examples of benefits to the other integrated regions could also have been included in the article.
Examples could have been taken from the European Economy, and the success of the Euro currency, as well as others. However, he did join the ranks of individuals who have taken the opportunity to ‘jump on the band wagon’ of the proclamation of the CSME.
Sources
*****
About the writer:
Poetess Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over thirty books, for more than 12 years and enjoys volunteering as a Counselor. She is a freelance writer for various online publications as well.
Check out Jamaican Guidance Counsellor’s Handbook
The Jamaican Guidance Counsellor’s Handbook, introduces the Jamaican educational system and highlights the psychometric movement, the trait, and factor theory as well as legislation that impacted the development of present guidelines and ethical standards. It also explores the counseling process, issues of school management, school organizational structure, and several counseling techniques which are apt for the school setting. The book also examines the various roles and responsibilities of a Jamaican Guidance Counsellor and provides a list of resource centers in Jamaica.
Available at all online book retailers and Amazon.com.
by Denise N. Fyffe
Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients is essential for the success of any business. While sending thank-you or greeting cards might seem like a traditional practice, its impact on client relations and business growth is undeniable.
Here are ten compelling reasons why businesses, whether large or new, should consider incorporating card-sending into their client engagement strategy:
Sending cards is a powerful way to establish and nurture relationships with clients. It demonstrates a level of consideration and thoughtfulness that can leave a lasting impression.
Satisfied clients are more likely to recommend your business to others. Word of mouth is a potent tool for business growth, and a thoughtful gesture like sending cards can contribute significantly to positive recommendations.
In the digital age, sending cards remains a cost-effective marketing and relationship-building tool. With online card services, the entire process is streamlined, making it convenient and budget-friendly.
The volume of special dates for various clients can be overwhelming. Card services with alert systems ensure you never miss a birthday, anniversary, or any significant event, allowing timely and personalized communication.
Clients who feel appreciated are more likely to stay loyal and spend more with your company. A well-timed card expressing gratitude can contribute to increased customer spending and revenue.
Beyond clients, sending cards to employees on occasions like sickness, birthdays, or significant life events fosters a caring company culture. It shows that the organization values and supports its workforce.
A positive work environment, reflected in gestures like sending cards, can boost employee satisfaction and, consequently, productivity. Satisfied employees are more likely to perform at higher levels.
Expressing gratitude to business contacts or service providers who contribute to your company’s success is crucial. Sending cards is a tangible way to acknowledge their efforts and maintain positive relations.
With a myriad of card options available, businesses can tailor their messages to suit individual clients. Keeping records helps in avoiding repetition and ensures that each client receives a personalized card.
Many card services offer the option to include gifts or flowers with your cards, adding an extra layer of thoughtfulness to your gesture. This can be particularly impactful during special occasions or to celebrate achievements.
Incorporating a card-sending strategy into your business practices is a wise decision, offering a unique and personal touch that sets your company apart and contributes to long-term success.
*****
About the writer:
Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 40 books, for more than ten years, and enjoys volunteering as a Counselor. She is a trainer, publisher, author, and writing mentor; helping others to achieve their dreams.
Check out Jamaican Guidance Counsellor’s Handbook
The Jamaican Guidance Counsellor’s Handbook introduces the Jamaican educational system and highlights the psychometric movement, the trait and factor theory as well as legislation that impacted the development of present guidelines and ethical standards. It also explores the counseling process, issues of school management, school organizational structure, and several counseling techniques that are apt for the school setting. The book also examines the various roles and responsibilities of a Jamaican Guidance Counsellor.
Available at all online book retailers and Amazon.com
by Denise N. Fyffe
Instructional media are methods of communication used in the delivery of information to enable learning, and transfer knowledge and skills to students i.e. training and education or how the methods and processes which result in pupils’ behavior change are transmitted.
There are several types of Instructional Media. They include:
Felder (2006), in an article entitled Learning Styles, posits that when mismatches exist between the learning styles of most students and the teaching style of the teacher, the students may become bored and inattentive, do poorly, get discouraged about the course and themselves, and in some cases change to other curricula or drop out of school/session.
To address this problem, he recommended the use of instructional methods to strike a balance (as opposed to trying to teach each student exclusively according to his or her preferences.)
If the balance is achieved, all students will be taught partly in a manner they prefer, which leads to an increased comfort level and willingness to learn, and partly in a less preferred manner, which provides practice and feedback in ways of thinking and solving problems which they may not initially be comfortable with but which they will have to use to be fully effective professionals.
Therefore, to meet the learning needs of our students we have chosen to use the computer along with a multimedia projector, audio CDs, handouts, and the whiteboard.
The versatility of the computer makes it an ideal instructional media. It will appeal to all three learning styles – visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. With the use of a multimedia projector, attached to the computer, PowerPoint presentations will be projected. These presentations will have both graphics and text, thus visual learners will be able to benefit.
Audio CDs will be played, and audio files embedded into the PowerPoint, for the benefit of our auditory ones. The kinaesthetic learner will be able to learn through activities and exercises given on the computer, thus catering to their special needs.
There are several advantages of the computer that makes it one of the most suitable selections for the lessons.
Firstly, everyone can create documents, make changes, and save these changes. The computer has a high visual impact – creating a theatrical effect in the class. It facilitates better group control/management – the lecturer is up front facing the group. It makes a wide range of resources instantly available.
Lecturers and students can annotate presentations on the computer.
Students are engaged by the computer getting them moving and participating in the lesson. It facilitates concept mapping – items can be moved around the screen. It also supports discussion (on the topic) and peer learning.
Lastly, lecturers and students enjoy using it.
Handouts are printed texts that will benefit the visual learner mostly. This will serve to provide an outline of the lecture and demonstrate that the lecturer has given careful thought to the lecture and to the instructional needs of that particular level of students.
Handouts also emphasize what should be learned, and serve as an advanced organizer, putting the lecture into a meaningful whole. Providing “skeleton” notes, freeing students from the mechanics of note taking and allowing them to devote more attention to the lecture and the visuals being displayed by the lecturer is another purpose of the handout.
It also illustrates lecture content, assuring that the illustration displayed on the slide is accurately conveyed to the students. Thought-provoking questions are printed on handouts and it cites students to additional literature on the subject.
The whiteboard facilitates interactive teaching and learning, and the information placed on it is visual and can arouse discussions and student participation. Putting information on it benefits the visual and the kinesthetic learners the most.
The discussions, while information is being placed on the board, will ensure that the auditory learners are not left out.
Students/individuals learn in diverse ways hence teachers/educators/facilitators need to provide a learning environment that contains an array of devices that will appeal to and assist all of them to be successful in the learning process.
*****
About the writer:
Poetess Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over thirty books, for more than 12 years and enjoys volunteering as a Counselor. She is a freelance writer for various online publications as well.
Check out Jamaican Guidance Counsellor’s Handbook
The Jamaican Guidance Counsellor’s Handbook, introduces the Jamaican educational system and highlights the psychometric movement, the trait, and factor theory as well as legislation that impacted the development of present guidelines and ethical standards. It also explores the counseling process, issues of school management, school organizational structure, and several counseling techniques which are apt for the school setting. The book also examines the various roles and responsibilities of a Jamaican Guidance Counsellor and provides a list of resource centers in Jamaica.
Available at all online book retailers and Amazon.com.
The 21st Century Worker 