Public speaking can be extremely daunting, especially if you are a shy and quiet person; the thought of sweat rolling down your face and stumbling your words can be unbearable, and this usually causes many people to avoid public talking altogether. Most people will reluctantly present, but will still find it extremely uncomfortable. Unfortunately, public speaking only becomes easier with experience, which means you may come across some uncomfortable moments along the way. There are plenty of people who work as a professional Motivational Speaker or regularly do public talks in front of large groups; you can typically find their talks on youtube, so if you want to get some extra tips and tricks for public speaking, then it may be worth watching.

Image Credit

 Write a Script 

Writing a script can prevent you from stumbling your words, or creating awkward silences; you don’t always need to be looking at your script when speaking, but it is good as a guide in case you find yourself getting flustered. When you write a script, you will most likely remember key parts of what you need to talk about, this will help your talk go much smoother. If you have a PowerPoint presentation to go alongside your script, this is a good way for you to focus on the slides and the presentation whilst you talk – here are some tips to create professional-looking PowerPoints. It’s important to keep rehearsing your script, as it will help you to remember key parts; if you’re not comfortable with presenting in front of family, then why not practice presenting by yourself? 

Do Plenty of Research 

If you are doing a presentation for your class, then plenty of research is vital; if you’re talking about a certain topic, then not having a lot of information to present can be pretty embarrassing and can cause you to finish quicker than expected. If you are not keen on doing lots of talking, make sure to put plenty of information on the PowerPoint presentation; the good thing about this is that the audience will be more focused on reading the presentation slides than looking at you.

Image Credit

Focus on Your Friends 

When you are standing up to do a presentation in front of a class, there will most likely be the odd few that will try and ruin your presentation by laughing at you and making you lose focus; it is important to block out these people whilst you are presenting, as they could ruin your chance for a good grade. If your classmates are watching, make sure to focus on them, as they will be there to give you a friendly thumbs up and an encouraging smile – just be sure not to get the giggles. Ultimately, you need to put it into perspective; getting the presentation wrong and stumbling your words is not a serious situation, and won’t cause any consequences – so relax, have fun and just try your best.

Humans and even animals love listening to music, after all it can evoke so many different emotions. Just like the feelings that people get when they gamble, taking drugs or eating food, it boils down to the dopamine. On hearing a song you enjoy, it evokes a strong response and your releases dopamine, also known as the ‘feel-good chemical’. These are chemicals that are involved in both motivation and addiction. Even the anticipation of hearing your favourite songs is enough to start the dopamine flow.

This is a fairly recent discovery – the relationship between dopamine and music explains why music has become a big part of our existence since the beginning of time. Dopamine is a molecule that induces feelings of reward and is very adaptive. The original biological aim for dopamine was to encourage animals and humans to go in search of food before they become hungry.

Image credit

Neuroscientists believe that following the rhythm of a song and anticipating what comes next, whether right or wrong is what keeps us hooked, giving us a small cognitive victory that provides pleasure.  The amount of enjoyment we get from music explains why it has featured in every culture on every continent.

One study has even linked the pleasure experienced by listening to music with the physiological surge in emotional arousal that includes changes in heart rate, increased pulse rate and respiratory rate. People can also experience the same feelings with shivering or chills. Scientific studies have noted that when people experience these feelings, the actual blood flow increases to the area of the brain that releases dopamine. This is why we hear music when we were shopping. Retailers want us to feel good, comfortable and ideally for our dopamine to be released. For help with choosing the right Instore Music for your business, visit a site like Mood Media for Instore Music advice.

These experiments show for the first time that the brain releases a large amount of dopamine when it hears the music that gave them a feeling of ‘shivers’.

To further examine that this reaction actually occurs, scientists took a few music lovers and injected them with a radioactive fluid that binds to dopamine receptors. By using a PET scanner, they were able to see whether the substance moved through the blood that would indicate that dopamine has been released when the music sounded. Where the dopamine receptors were activated, the radioactive substance would stick to them.

Image credit

When the relationship between music and dopamine was established, the participants were put into an MRI machine to scan their brain while music was played. The results of the MRI scan showed the scientists for the first time how the brain releases dopamine both during the phase of ‘chills’ but also before the music even heard, when the listener is still in the anticipation stage. The dopamine is also released from two different areas of the brain.

It can be hard to find enough hours to complete all the tasks you have to do in your working day; however, there are things you can do to maximise your efficiency and ensure you make the most of every moment. Before we get into it, most people work better in a clean environment, so be sure to take a look at these robot vacuum cleaners for thick carpets (because we all know how offices are).

Image Credit

Finish tasks

Try to finish the jobs that you start; otherwise, you will end up feeling anxious about them. You will feel a great endorphin rush when a task is completed, making you happy and relaxed and more able to move on to the next job.

Plan ahead

Whether you are spending your days converting PDF to Excel files or are ensconced in a top-secret design project, planning your week ahead can be really helpful. This will minimise the time spent procrastinating and give you a clear and prioritised pathway through your working week.

Image Credit

Track time

You may have offered to help with converting PDF to Excel files or taken on an extra weekend shift, but try to track your time whatever you are doing. Take notice of how much time you are spending on individual tasks and how many minutes you spend doing very little except chatting with colleagues or making the tea.

Take breaks

When you are under pressure to get jobs done, it can be tempting to miss breaks; however, taking a little time out can give your productivity levels a boost. There are rules about taking breaks at work.

Think positively

A little positive thinking can go a long way in increasing your productivity. Positive thoughts will spur you on and ensure you don’t waste time worrying about impending deadlines or your workload for the day.

Minimise distractions

Distractions in your workplace can really lower your efficiency levels and your motivation. These distractions come in many different forms, from constantly ringing phones to gossiping colleagues, but all can have an adverse effect on your efficiency.

There are obviously some distractions that you can’t avoid, but there are ways to minimise others. Make sure that your personal mobile phone is switched off, for example, or get some noise-cancelling headphones if your company allows this.

Set short deadlines

Set shorter deadlines and make yourself work against the clock. This will make you work faster and give you a sense of achievement when you complete a task.

Electrodeposition – or more properly electrochemical deposition – is a technique that has been available since the 19th century. Basically it involves putting a layer of one metal onto another using electrons deposited on ions in a solution. Think back to your school science lessons where you probably put a shiny silver coloured coating on a copper penny via electroplating – that’s electrodeposition.

Image Credit

It’s a versatile process with many uses. Silver and gold plating of jewellery and tableware has been around since the 1840s. But while it’s still widely employed to apply decorative and protective coatings, in more recent years it’s found uses in the electronics sector and in nanotechnology – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313099862_electrodeposition.

How it works

Put simply, electrodeposition uses an electric current to dissolve small particles of metals such as nickel composites and deposit them on the opposite electrode. The part to be plated is the cathode, the metal to be used makes up the anode. Both are immersed in an electrolyte solution, this contains dissolved metal salts and ions to allow the flow of an electric current.

By applying a direct electrical current to the anode ions dissolve from it into the solution and from there are transferred to the cathode. The ions in the electrolyte are constantly replaced by those removed from the anode.

Image Credit

There is an inverse process known as electropolishing which can be used to remove the surface layer from a plated object.

Where it’s used

Electrodeposition using nickel composites and other metals has been around for a long time and been applied to many household items. Since the mid 1990s it’s also had a place in the microelectronics industry.

Electrodeposition on a silicon chip was first used in 1995 to apply the solder connections for high density of output lines. As the process evolved it was also used to apply copper connecting lines to the silicon chip. It offers more accuracy and lower costs than the evaporation techniques previously used. An insulating mask is used to ensure that the metal is deposited accurately where it’s needed. This process can be extremely accurate – a computer chip can have electrodeposited copper wires that are under 100 nanometres in width.

A similar masking technique is used in nanotechnology applications. This is still in its early stages but has great potential for medical applications such as creating implants.

If you have contaminated water on or under your land, don’t worry. Tried and tested solutions exist that will solve your contamination problems. Here are three common methods of managing the decontamination process. You are likely to need expert advice to find the method most suitable for you.

Image Credit

Extract and dispose

This method involves finding a way to get to the water, either using a sump or by drilling a borehole. The water is then pumped out into storage tanks or tankers. The water is then taken away to a processing plant who will extract the clean water and dispose of the pollutants safely.

In-situ treatment

In some cases, ground water can be decontaminated on site, with minimal disruption. If your pollutants are a type of fuel, such as kerosene, petrol or diesel, this might be the best approach for you. Chemical oxidants, air, or nutrients can be added to the contaminated water. The pollutants can break down faster and escape to the atmosphere, or get eaten by bacteria. Expert land remediation services and advice can be found to provide advice on whether these techniques are appropriate for you.

Image Credit

Pump and treat

One of the most common land remediation services to decontaminate groundwater is a technique known as ‘pump and treat’. This basically involves pumping the water into tanks, treating and decontaminating it, then releasing it back into the soil, or into drains. Reverse osmosis or carbon filters can be used, depending on the type of pollution, budget, and time constraints. Pump and treat systems tend to be in place for weeks or even months at a time.

What is land remediation?

Land remediation is the process of bringing land back into safe use, including removing contaminants and pollution. Defra, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, is the UK Government department most involved, and has published research on land remediation – http://sciencesearch.defra.gov.uk/Document.aspx?Document=SP1001_9957_FRP.pdf.
For another answer to what is land remediation?, this company can help

If you are concerned about contaminated water on your land, there’s no need to panic. A range of expert solutions exist to solve your particular problems, allowing your land to be used safely for generations to come. Expert advice is readily available to guide you in the right direction and give you an idea of timescales and costs.

Holidays are great for getting away from everyday life, seeing new things, and experiencing different cultures, but sometimes our financial woes get in the way of holiday plans. If you are experiencing a shortage of funds, then maybe one of these cheaper holiday destinations could be the way forward. Here are the top holiday destinations that won’t break the bank.

Spain

Spain is a top cheap holiday destination for travellers and it has lots of gorgeous beaches to sunbathe at and clear oceans to swim in. If you’re interested in the party scene, then Ibiza or Malaga could be the way forward. Why not relax and take in the Spanish culture?

Image Credit

Portugal 

Portugal boasts an array of amazing cities such as Lisbon and Madeira. There are lots of places to see in Portugal, as they have a wide range of historic buildings and landmarks, so rest assured that you will not be stuck for things to do. There are plenty of stunning beaches to relax on, so a peaceful holiday will be guaranteed. Why not visit the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian? one of Lisbon’s most popular museums. 

Turkey 

Turkey is certainly one of the most captivating locations in the world; the weather is hot, and the beaches are stunning – what’s not to like? Turkey is one of many amazing cheap holiday destinations, so you will definitely want to add this place to your travel list. Turkey is also home to gorgeous cities such as Istanbul, and Ankara, the capital of Turkey. You can even visit Turkeys most popular beach resort, Marmaris. If you fancy staying in a villa in Turkey, why not check out websites such as https://kas4villarentals.com/, a Kas Villas rental and letting company that provides stunning, and reasonably priced villas in Kas.

Cyprus 

Cyprus is a country based in the Eastern Mediterranean; during April time and onwards the temperature there can reach up to 21 – 23°C, so this would make the perfect holiday destination if you want to visit somewhere hot. There are many gorgeous beaches in Cyprus such as; Coral Bay, Nissi Beach, and Konnos Bay – so why not relax and sunbathe at your nearest beach? You will not want to miss out on an historic site called ‘Tombs of The Kings’; a royal burial ground from 4th century BC.

Image Credit

Bali 

Bali is an island in Indonesia that is home to many stunning beach sites, coral reefs, and mountainous areas. Bali is one of the top cheap holiday destinations in the world; it is full of friendly locals, and amazing places to see that won’t leave you short on funds. If you are a keen fan of yoga, there are even many yoga and meditation retreats to go to in Bali. They also have an array of amazing tourist landmarks and attractions such as the ‘Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary’, and ‘The Uluwatu Temple’.

Many young people are finding getting on the property ladder problematic, but there is a possible solution: buy with friends. It’s not such a far stretch from the rented house-sharing that takes place. What are the pros and cons?

Image Credit

For

The obvious one is that you get a foot on the property ladder at a reduced cost, and you are paying towards your own home for the future rather than paying rent. If you are all going into it with the same deposit and agree on the same share of repayments every month, it is much easier to manage. Nowadays, mortgage companies provide mortgages specifically for this type of arrangement, although you still need to ensure you fully understand all the terms. Your home is at risk if you don’t keep up repayments. You can also split the other costs involved. If you are buying as a group, you will no doubt be looking for cheap conveyancing, so look around for companies that do this.

Against

Friends do fall out and circumstances change, so get your exit strategy sorted out right from the start. Agree how you will split the proceeds when you sell and agree how you will split the repayments. If one party wants to sell before the others, you may be responsible for buying them out and all the costs that go with that.

Image Credit

You may find that you just can’t live with the people with whom you buy; it’s very different living with someone. Depending on your agreement, you might be able to rent your part out so you can live elsewhere. Don’t fall into the trap that doing everything on the cheap is the best way, even if your co-buyers want to. Make sure you use reputable conveyancers. No one wants to get caught out, so check out websites such as https://www.samconveyancing.co.uk/news/conveyancing/conveyancing-for-99-the-scam-of-cheap-conveyancing-289 for details of the difference between quotes and estimates.

Other considerations

You should make sure that everything is legally drawn up and keep accurate records of who has paid for what and when. Sort out the house rules early on, including house guests, partners and so on. Be open and honest with each other about what you want and how long you intend to own the property and plan for the future.

Marketing, advertising or promoting an event successfully, is key to its success and to do this effectively, requires a strategy.

Image Credit

Being organised, working to a schedule and being able to delegate are all necessary skills required to manage the marketing of an event and this is where anyone working in this industry should start.

Who are you selling to?

Firstly, make sure you know your audience. Are you trying to market your event directly to the consumer, or to businesses? Although you may use the same strategies, i.e. social media and other techniques, the language you use will depend on who you are marketing to.

Strategy

Always prepare a timetable before launching a marketing campaign. Break it down into four sections including what is required pre-event launch, the event launch, what needs to be done throughout the campaign and what needs to be done in the final run up to the event.

Initiatives

Consider initiatives such as early bird ticket price offers, group booking discounts, loyalty schemes, etc. This will get reservations to come in early and start to create a buzz around your event.

Image Credit

Partnerships

Always consider working for other non-competitive businesses. This can double the awareness of the event, save costs and give your brand kudos.

Mission statement

Always know why you are putting on the event, what you hope to achieve and have a mission statement that everyone on the team knows and understands. Businesses looking for event management companies Dublin, for example, can get advice and guidance from a range of event management companies Dublin wide.

Social media

Make sure you engage people with social media early and be creative to encourage sharing and engagement.

Contingency

Always make sure you have a contingency plan. Depending on the type of event, you may be affected by the weather, or travel problems. Many sporting events are having to postpone and reschedule due to the Corona virus outbreak.

Mailing lists

Both before the event and during the event, build up a database of customers and stay in touch with them regularly, reminding them about the event, informing them of what to expect and keeping them interested.

Press release

Prepare a press release to go out a few days before the event and issue it to relevant publications that target your key audience in a last push for ticket sales.

If you don’t know who Jim Cronin is; he is the founder of Dorset’s ‘Monkey World’ – an ape and monkey rescue centre. Originally from America, Jim Cronin began working with animals as a zookeeper at ‘Bronx Zoo’, this is where he discovered his love for animals and wanted to continue his career working and caring for them. He eventually decided to move to the UK where he worked at John Aspinall’s zoo.

Image Credit

Working here, he gained more knowledge about the care and rehabilitation of primates and really gained key skills in this field of work. Whilst working at this zoo, he found out about the abuse of many chimps abroad, including baby chimps taken from the wild to be sold as exotic pets, and people using chimps as photographers props on Spanish beaches; they would have had to work long hours in the day, and sadly would have had their teeth knocked out to prevent injuries to tourists. This motivated him to start Monkey World and make real changes.

Jim discovered that a plot of land that was being used as a pig farm was on sale near Wool in Dorset, and he also had a small bank loan to help him begin his venture. Monkey World opened on 7th August 1987, with just an enclosure of nine rescue chimps, along with a cafe and play area for visitors.

It didn’t take long for the small primate sanctuary to grow bigger and bigger; they began rescuing orangutans, and other small primates such as stump-tailed macaques, woolly monkeys, and even gibbons. The more it grew, the more primates they were able to rescue.

Image Credit

Sadly Jim Cronin died from Liver Cancer on 17th March 2007, which was a devastating loss for the keepers, and Jim’s wife, Alison Cronin; who has carried on his journey in rescuing and rehabilitating primates. His work with Monkey World has certainly touched many; they even set up a memorial fund called the ‘Jim Cronin Memorial Fund’, as well as having a statue on the site of Monkey World, which shows him looking into the eyes of their well-known chimp, Charlie.

Even though his legacy has not been forgotten, life has continued on the grounds of Monkey World to carry on with rescuing mistreated primates. Monkey World even had a TV show called ‘Monkey Business’, which later became ‘Monkey Life’; where they document the day to day happenings of the animals, the keepers, and their rescue journeys. If you’re interested in watching ‘Monkey Life’, then you will need to make sure your TV and aerial are up to scratch. If you are in need of a brand new aerial, you could get in touch with an Aerial Installation Gloucester based company, or one nearer to you, who will install a brand new aerial for you. New episodes of Monkey Life are even to this day being released, so you will not want to miss out.

Packing for a summer holiday doesn’t have to be a nightmare, and if you’re smart you can ensure you have everything you need for fun in the sun and a whole lot more without paying for excess baggage at the airport! Taking the items out of the wardrobes that you had created by a Fitted Wardrobes Hampshire company doesn’t have to be stressful and messy. Just follow our tips for a stress free packing session.

Image Credit

Don’t Pack Too Light

You’ll get people who will tell you they can fit everything they need into hand luggage for a two-week trip. That may be so, but it’s not very realistic. Rather than packing light, pack smart. Invest in clothes that do not need to be ironed, make-up and skincare products that are multi-functional and a few accessories that can take you from day to night.

Pack in Advance

The pros will all tell you to plan your packing to ensure that you don’t end up throwing things into your suitcase at the last minute or leaving important items behind. Pack a day or two in advance and have a list of everything you need that you stick to!

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

Yes, this is easier said than done, but with a little bit of creative thinking you can come up with a capsule wardrobe that’s perfect for all your summer holiday activities. Stick to versatile garments like maxi dresses that can be worn just about everywhere and can even work as a cover-up on the beach, and only pack three pairs of shoes maximum!

Image Credit

Check Your Itinerary

What you pack will depend on where you are going and what you plan to do. If you are going to be spending all day at the beach and evenings in bars or restaurants, maxi dresses are a winner. If you’re going to be engaging in more strenuous activities, then shorts and T-shirts may be best, and if you’ll be in places with a lot of insects, you may want to pack long, light pants and longer shorts instead.

Make Your Own Rules

Don’t follow a set packing list that someone else has created. By all means learn as much as you can from other seasoned travellers, but don’t skimp on the things you really need just because someone else’s list says so. Make a list of what you consider a priority and then work with that rather than trying to meet the criteria set out by someone else.