Finances Archives - Mother 2 Mother Blog

Types of Personal Loans You Can Obtain

May 21, 2021 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing financial tips on the types of personal loans for individuals. Have you considered applying for a personal loan? This type of decision is generally made by individuals or families who need to consolidate debt, cover unexpected expenses, make large purchases, or pay for home repairs.

Whatever the reason, borrowing a specific sum of money can help you handle the situation without feeling financial stress. There are various types of personal loans, depending on one’s financial situation, such as unsecured, secured, cosigned, and a personal line of credit. The interest rates and repayment periods are determined by the level of risk lenders take. If shopping for a personal loan, learn more about the most popular types.

types of personal loans

Types of Personal Loans:

Unsecured

A large number of borrowers opt for unsecured personal loans since lenders require no collateral. Furthermore, there’s no physical asset to back up the money you’ve borrowed. So, lenders have no power to take any of your assets in the event of failing to pay the installments. The credit history of the borrowers and co-signers is what usually serves as a backup.

Moreover, individuals shopping for an unsecured personal loan need a minimum credit score of a 670 to 739 points or higher. The amount of the loan will depend on the credit score, ranging between $1,000 and $50,000. The better your score, the higher the amount you can borrow. The repayment period is generally between one and six years.

In terms of the interest rates, unsecured loans typically come with high interest. Despite the absence of collateral, individuals might face serious consequences when being late with the payments. For example, late payments could wreck their credit scores.

Secured

Secured personal loans are the complete opposite of the unsecured loan. For example, you must have collateral for a secured loan. The collateral usually takes the form of a vehicle, deposit certificate, savings account, or other types of assets. In case the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender has the right to seize his/her asset to cover the debt. See this website to check out how secured loans work.

Nevertheless, the interest rates are much lower because of the higher level of security. Consequently, the majority of lenders show greater flexibility when it comes to credit score requirements. The collateral serves as some sort of compensation for not having a solid score. This alternative is considered the best for individuals with a mediocre or poor score.

types of personal loans

Cosigned

If you have a cosigner, you can obtain an unsecured or secured loan. In the event of a poor score or non-existent credit history, lenders tend to ask borrowers to have a cosigner whose credit score is significantly higher than yours. The responsibility of the cosigner would be to pay off the debt in case you default.

Instead of collateral, you’ll have a person serving as backup. This scenario will help you get approval as well as more favorable terms. While borrowers stand to gain from such an agreement, cosigners take the risk of experiencing disadvantages.

For instance, the loan will appear on the credit report of the cosigner along with any late payments, which have a negative effect on the score. Therefore, every borrower considering such an option should factor in the financial risk involved in the decision. Any wrong move on your end could mean a damaged personal relationship with the cosigner. The following link, explains what cosigners are liable and responsible for.

Debt consolidation

A debt consolidation loan is a perfect option for individuals having multiple debts. It’s a chance for borrowers to combine all their debts into a single loan so they will just have one monthly payment. This offer is convenient for individuals who wish to reduce their monthly expenses by avoiding multiple interest rates and hefty late fees.

Furthermore, you will only pay one interest rates. However, have to be in control of your debt for this solution to be successful. You should refrain from applying for new personal loans until you pay off the consolidated debt.

Personal line of credit

This type of loan is similar to having a credit card; only the borrowed sum isn’t repaid in monthly installments. Borrowers are provided with access to a given amount of money, which means they can borrow from it whenever necessary. Interest is charged only on the balance that remains.

This option is believed to be the best choice in times of emergency when individuals have to cover unplanned expenses. In order to be considered eligible, you should have a remarkable credit score and credit history.

Make sure you choose the right type so as to avoid unplanned scenarios in the future. Consult a professional if necessary to help you with any decisions!

Filed Under: Finances, Financial Tips Tagged With: financial planning, financial tips, personal loans

Achieving Financial Stability In Your Life

October 23, 2020 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing empowerment tips on achieving financial stability. Financial stability is one of the most important things to strive for in life. It reduces stress, improves mental health, and supports loved ones. While you do not have to be rich, the knowledge that your finances are in good health will enhance your quality of life. So, taking steps to achieving financial stability should be a priority.

Your home is where you spend most of your time, as well as the biggest expense. Naturally, this is the perfect place to start the transformation.

achieving financial stability

Achieving Financial Stability:

#1. Clear Debt

Whether the debts relate to home purchases or other items isn’t important. Losing money to interest rates and administrative costs adds to your debt. Therefore, knowing what is the best tax debt relief company should be at the top of your agenda. It’s impossible to start moving in the right direction if you haven’t tied up loose ends from past mistakes.

Establishing a better repayment plan won’t suddenly remove debt overnight. However, it helps to relieve some of the financial debt your shoulders. As you move closer to becoming debt-free, it should provide a springboard for future upgrades.

#2. Consider Remortgaging

Your mortgage is probably the biggest financial commitment you have. So, if you can find a better mortgage rate, it would be foolish to ignore it. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of remortgaging before committing to any process. Under the right circumstances, it’s a move that could save you thousands of dollars over the next few years. Therefore, it is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Remortgaging is particularly useful when you come to the end of a fixed-rate deal. Meanwhile, homeowners that have seen their property increase in value can use remortgaging too. A better loan-to-value can unlock lower interest rates to boost your savings.

#3. Go Green

Energy consumption is one of the most influential features for determining the costs of running your home. Making your home more economical through eco-friendly updates is essential. It will significantly reduce water, electricity, and gas usage. Moreover, your efforts to build a better home support the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.

While some of the tasks require an initial outlay but, the investment will pay for itself in time. Most importantly, many local authorities run schemes to subsidize solar panels and double glazing. It is always worth researching the possibilities that may be available.

#4. Lose Unnecessary Bills

As a homeowner, you will encounter monthly bills and expenses. Sadly, most people are guilty of paying for services or overspending on features they do not need. For example, if you run an internet speed test, it’s quite likely you are paying for more than you receive. Similarly, TV packages and cell packages may include excessive data or channels that you do not need.

Unnecessary bills may also include insurance premiums for devices that are covered by your home owners insurance policy. Take the time to analyze all current bills to determine if any can be lost or cut down to size. The individual benefits may be small, but their cumulative impact is huge.

achieving financial stability

#5. Stop Hoarding

Most homeowners are guilty of a little hoarding. It can sometimes be hard to give up something that you may want to use down the line. However, if you haven’t used a product for six months, it’s likely that it serves no purpose in your life. The noteworthy exception is, of course, decorations for the festive season or Halloween period.

Hoarded items are taking up valuable storage space in the property. Fortunately, selling items online or via garage sales can bring in a significant sum of money. In fact, many households have between $5,000-$10,000 tied up in electronics, art, and clothes that are no longer wanted.

#6. Use The Garden

The backyard adds a whole new dimension to the property, if you let it. Spending more time outside as a family can reduce your household electricity bills. Similarly, hosting a small family gathering or BBQ can be cheaper than heading out to a restaurant. If you use the facilities regularly, the value for money will be even greater. Many of the upgrades will boost the property value too.

Another potential benefit comes from growing fruit and vegetables. This can reduce your grocery bills and food waste. Better still, it can become a cheap hobby that saves you from wasting money on other tasks. The satisfaction of growing great tasting produce is also a wonderful thing.

#7. Choose Home Upgrades With High ROIs

Boosting your financial health doesn’t always have to show immediate returns. Sometimes, protecting your asset is one of the smartest solutions available. Most families will want to adapt and modify their homes to meet their evolving needs. However, choosing ideas that are shown to add value to the property puts you in a far stronger position. Do not forget it.

The most popular options are turning a guest room into an office, or adding an extension. Turning an attic or basement into a living space can make the home feel bigger and better while adding significant value. Aside from the financial boost, it adds value to your daily lives. Perfect.

#8. Repair, Don’t Replace

We live in a society that encourages us to replace broken items right away. In many situations, it is a far better option to repair them. Whether it’s using video tutorials to fix a faulty appliance or calling a professional roofer doesn’t matter. Repair jobs can often be completed at a fraction of the costs it would take to replace the items.

In addition to repairing appliances, you can look to use upcycling to great effect. From turning crates into garden furniture to altering your clothes, the benefits are plentiful. It adds personality while also saving money. What more could you ask for?

#9. Protect The Property

In truth, financial rewards are of secondary importance when looking at home security. The primary incentive for adding CCTV and alarms is to save your family from an unenviable situation. However, it should not be forgotten that keeping burglars at bay also ensures that your possessions are kept safe. In turn, this prevents the need to replace those items.

Moreover, the investments into improved home security may bring down your home insurance premiums. For the sake of ongoing overheads and avoiding unforeseen problems, ignoring money saver is not an option. On a side note, it will also deliver a far greater sense of internal peace.

#10. Lose The Need For Ownership

It is very easy to fall into the trap of wanting to own everything. Ultimately, though, you have to do what’s right for you. In some cases, renting a property may actually be better than buying a property. Furthermore, leasing a car is often a smarter choice than purchasing a vehicle. Not least due to the depreciation that a purchased vehicle will encounter.

Similarly, there are plenty of items that you might only need for a one-off event or short period of time. Rather than using the item once and then leaving it in storage for years, rentals are easier. Clothes and filming equipment are just two great examples that you may wish to utilize.

#11. Quit Bad Habits

While efficient appliances and Smart tech are important, do you really need the latest and greatest? Habitual changes can transform your financial future. For example, cutting down on take out and alcohol can reduce your finances. Likewise, if you learn to stop smoking, it can cut your annual expenses by thousands of dollars. Sacrifice is worthwhile.

With the money that is saved from eliminating alcohol, take out and smoking, you join a gym. Getting healthy is worth the expense.

#12. Earn From Home

Starting a side hustle from home, or working as a freelancer for a few hours, can make all the difference. Even an extra $500 per month would completely change your fortune. Now is the time to make it happen.

You may have long-term plans of turning your hustle into a full business. Or, maybe you’re happy to keep supplementing your salary in this way. In either scenario, with a little extra money entering the household each month, your hopes of achieving financial stability is far greater.

Finally, striving for financial stability shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying life. Instead, the focus should remain on making responsible decisions and long-term outcomes. When combined with good organization and a commitment to consistency, your finances will look better than ever.

Filed Under: Finances Tagged With: financial security, financial tips

Starting an Online Business from Home

November 13, 2019 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

If you want to start an online business from home, but you just don’t know where to start, you have come to the right place. Today, we’re sharing empowerment tips on starting an online business from home. We all have a craft, we just need to tap into our specialty.

Here’s a few tips to help you get started:

Fill a Need

The first thing that you need to do is focus on filling a need. A lot of people focus on finding a product first and then seeking a market second. In fact, if you want to boost your chances of success you need to start with your market. The trick is to find people who are searching for a solution to a problem. This will give you your target market, and you will also be able to analyze your company’s potential too.

Design and Build your Site

When you’re starting an online business, it’s important that you take the right steps. When you have your product and target market aligned, you need to work on your selling product. Your site is the best way for you to do this. You can start getting sales without investing a lot of money. When creating your site keep it simple. You have less than five seconds to grab someone’s attention or you can lose a sell to your competition.

It is suggested that you have a plain font on a white background. You also need to make your navigation clear and simple. Only use graphics if they embrace or further your message. And, make sure that you make it easy for them to buy your products. If you’re working from home then it may be an idea for you to invest in a virtual address for office use.

Use Search Engines

PPC advertising is one of the best and easiest ways to get traffic to your site. You don’t have to wait for the traffic to come to you organically, and PPC advertisements show up immediately. Another bonus is that PPC gives you the chance to test different keywords and headlines. You can then implement these keywords across your site in order to capitalize on the biggest benefits.

Reputation

People often use their internet connection to access information. If you make your knowledge accessible to other people, then you will increase your ranking. Furthermore, you may even find that you get more traffic as a result. Make sure that each link on your site provides valuable information. Give away free expert advice, create articles and even post videos. It also helps to have a blog so users can share your content.

Filed Under: Careers, Finances Tagged With: business tips, careers for women, online business, self-owned businesses

Turning Your Hobby Into a Business

June 29, 2019 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Today, we’re sharing empowerment tips on turning your hobby into a business. If sitting in the office and working on the computer is not your cup of tea, think about making money off things that you love doing. Crafts are not only a great pass time, but you can also make money off them. You can create unique gifts, cards, and home decoration items. You can convert your hobby into a full time job and earn a living without leaving the house.

Turning Your Hobby into a Business:

Advertise on Social Media

One of the best ways of creating awareness about your art and crafts is using social media. Artist marketing can be tricky, as you will have to find a very narrow niche that resonates with what you do and engages with your products. That is why you will have to experiment with different ways of getting followers, until you know what is working and how you can get more commissioned work and earn more money.

Improve Your Skills

It is important that you research what is out there, and who your local competitors are. You might think that your art and crafts are different, but after checking out Pinterest and Instagram, you are likely to think otherwise. You should also keep up with the trends, so you can accommodate the needs of your potential clients, and adjust your style to their needs. Investing in your skills development will mean that you are investing in the longevity of your business.

Experiment

It might also be a good idea to experiment with new materials and techniques. You can enhance your creative art and crafts, and provide a variety of products based on what your customers are looking for. You can try to paint on canvas or silk or try various quality paper. Check out the Graphic 45 paper suppliers. You can find what works the best with the paint and tools you are using, so you can develop quality crafts.

Cash In On Holidays and Special Occasions

When you are creating personalized art and crafts, you will need to focus on your target market and the changing demand. During the holiday season, you might get really busy. However, in the summer you will feel like giving up. A good way of overcoming this problem is to identify the times of the year when people are likely to order custom gifts and decorative items. You can create promotions or pre-season sales. For example, you focus on teacher’s gifts in the beginning of the summer and continue until after the holidays. If baking is your thing, maybe offer unique desserts for teas, parties, baby shower etc.

Create Your Own Style

You will need to have your signature style people that people will recognize. Even if you are just recreating images, painting word art, or designing corporate logos, you should create a style that is unique to you. Make sure it is one that your potential clients can resonate with.

Get Recommendations

One of the cheapest and easiest ways of getting new clients is to ask your existing customers or friends for recommendations. If they are happy with the service and the custom designs you are creating, they will not hesitate to recommend you to people they know. You could even set up your own Facebook business page, so people can leave reviews and recommendations publicly. Ask them to take a photo of the product they ordered and tag you on it on social media.

Invest in Training

If turning your hobby into a business is your goal, you need to keep up with the latest techniques. You might find that upcycling and using the contents of your recycling bin is the right way to go to create a sustainable business. However, you have no idea how to make it work. This is why you will have to find a coach who can help you grow professionally and get the most out of your ideas.

Get New Tools

Once your craft business grows, it is important that you invest in the latest tools and technologies. When you are ready to set up your own workshop, you will need to get power tools, paint brushes, and professional lighting. This will allow you to get more done in less time, and take on more orders. You don’t want to limit your earning potential when your business starts growing.

Create Community Projects

The easiest way to improve your reputation and get your brand out there is to take part in community projects. You can create a workshop and take it to the park or community centers and schools for free. It is a win-win situation, you will get recognized and meet potential clients. Display some of your creations while participating in the community projects. Furthermore, the community will get a valuable activity for their members for free.

Start Teaching

One of the often neglected ways of making money from art and crafts is teaching. If you want to help individuals overcome their difficulties, you can create your own art therapy classes and workshops. You can also tap into the couples activity market or girl friends wanting to try a new hobby. Create a craft session for those who would like to take their relationship further and try something new together. Whatever interests you, there will be a market out there for your art and your lessons.

Being an artist and a creative person doesn’t mean that you have to live from one day to the next. In fact, turning your hobby into a business can happen on a full scale level. You can actually make money off things you actually enjoy doing, instead of being stuck in an office and feeling unmotivated and having your talent wasted.

Filed Under: Finances Tagged With: business ideas, starting a business tips, starting a craft business, starting your own business

Careers to Consider When Your Kids Start School

October 17, 2018 by Rhonda Gales 2 Comments

Looking to re-enter the work-force now that your kids are in school? If your kids are in school full-time, you have more flexibility to go after the career of your dreams. However, you may be unsure of which career path to take. So, today we’re going to share four careers to consider when your kids start school. Making your own money or contributing to the household is a great way to put your on the self-empowerment path.

1. School Teacher

Many parents go into teaching because they enjoy being around children. Additionally, they have plenty of experience with their own kids. If you’re creative and quick-minded with a college education, you could train to become an elementary or high-school teacher.

One of the benefits of teaching when you have kids is that you will also have summer and winter breaks off. Definitely add school teacher to your list of careers to consider.

2. Nursing

It may take a few years to qualify as a nurse, however, nursing is a rewarding and flexible career choice for mothers. Not only can you enjoy helping patients, but you can also work your shifts around your child.

You should know, however, that your training doesn’t end when you become a nurse. As part of your continued professional development, you will need to complete ongoing training. The good news is, with companies like Valley Anesthesia, you can earn your AANA Certification while enjoying deluxe resort accommodations. If your lifestyle allows, you can take a break from family life and focus on continuing your education. You can do this, all from the sanctity of a stunning educational resort.

3. Web Developer

Are you harnessing secret coding skills? If so, you could become a web developer and work from the comfort of your own home. Because of the rise of online shopping sites and remote working, freelance web developers and designers are in high demand. A career in Web Development allows both flexibility and a great salary.

Furthermore, you don’t need to be tied to a 9-5 schedule. You can find your own clients and work when it suits you. The same goes for any freelance work such as photography, photo editing, copywriting and accounting.

4. Yoga Instructor

Again, if you like the idea of being self-employed, why not use your skills and interests to earn money. Yoga is incredibly popular, and all it takes is a short course to turn your passion for yoga into a teaching career.

Finding a balance between work and family time is difficult for many parents. Make sure you’re earning enough money to support your family when contemplating what careers to consider. Most importantly, you want to be able to spend time with your children and enjoy a little personal time. Finding the right career with a bit of flexibility can put you on the path to a rewarding career and family life. So, it pays to do your research and have an open mind when considering your career.

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances, Life-Thoughts Tagged With: careers for women, empowerment, finances, job opportunities for moms, self-empowerment

Working From Home: A New Parent’s Guide to Side Cash

June 28, 2018 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

You did it! You spent 9 months of time, energy, spending money, and sleepless nights preparing for your new baby. Now that your baby is home, the bills are stacking up and things are getting stressful. However, you can’t bear to send your baby to daycare. Furthermore, you’re not sure you can afford it. So, how do you come up with side cash ideas and still get to enjoy being a new parent? We have a few ideas on how to make side cash and put you on the path to empowering yourself. Check out the tips below:

Blogging

A popular option for stay-at-home parents is to blog. This is especially popular for new parents. Your audience will love to take the journey with you. Soon, they feel like a part of your family. You’ll get advice, tips, prayers, goodwill, and some good side cash. You’ll want to look up tips to make your blog successful, research good marketing tips and tools, and have a regular publishing schedule to really make money blogging. And don’t give up hope if it doesn’t take off right away, but great things take time.

Cash Back & Survey Apps

If you’re wanting a job you can do one-handed when Baby is fussy, eating, or sleeping, trying cash-back and survey apps. All you need is a phone and a free finger to start making money. They may not pay out huge, but with consistency, they can pay out decent cash at a steady rate. They’re easy, fun, and you don’t have to worry about putting your baby in childcare while you work.

Article Work & Writing

Maybe you don’t have the finances to start a blog, but you like the idea of writing. There are several sites – like HubPages and Textbroker – that can help you generate cash by writing. Each one pays differently, has different metrics, and employs different rules. So, read through each carefully to make sure you’re choosing a good platform for you. Additionally, make sure the work is easy, doesn’t take too much time, and you get paid very consistently.

Tutoring & ESL

Did you know that you can teach ESL without a degree from the comfort of your home? With sites like iTalki, you can set your own rate and schedule and get paid regularly. You must speak English or any other language fluently to qualify. It really is that easy! There are lots of other tutoring and language learning sites out there that will pay you to teach from the comfort of your home as well.

Get Crafty

Crafts are great side cash ideas. With sites like Etsy, you can bring your crafting, DIY, and refurbishing skills to light and make money. For a small fee, you can sell all sorts of things on Etsy. You can even do the crafts with your kids and make it a family event. Now is the time to experiment and have some fun.

Be a Friend

While this isn’t technically a stay-at-home job, it is a job that you don’t have to go to every day. Sites like Rent a Friend will let you set your own hours and schedule. You get paid to hang out with people, and the people who pay you also pay for your meals, events, concerts, and more. It’s a pretty sweet deal. These are strictly platonic and you get to make tons of new friends.

Freelancing offers fun and wonderful way for side cash ideas or full-time cash if you put the work in! But, it is also not for everyone. You get what you put in. Find an avenue you like doing work that you enjoy, and that won’t be a problem at all. Good luck and congratulations on your new baby!

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances Tagged With: finances, how to earn money, money making ideas

How to Snag a Promotion Without Compromising Your Kids

April 16, 2018 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Not many people can say that they have the perfect work life. There’s always room for improvement. Furthermore, if you are a working mother then you may find it hard to completely throw yourself into your job. You may even find it hard to concentrate on a day to day basis because you have a thousand things running through your mind. This could include whether or not you packed a juice box in your child’s lunchbox or who has soccer practice later that day. Either way, juggling kids and a career can be difficult. But, that doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on a promotion or time with the kids. You can have both of these things. Additionally, it’s a great way for you to boost your income. Today, I’m sharing a few tips on empowering yourself and how to snag a promotion:

Know the Needs of Your Department

If you want to nail that interview for a promotion, then it helps to know what is needed in the department. You’ll want to be a leader for your department. It’s important that you take on tasks in the new department, and show initiative. Your manager doesn’t need to see you doing these tasks. They will know that it was done, and this can work in your favor if you are working in a team. It may not be your job to do some paperwork at the end of the day, however, if doing the paperwork helps out a teammate, your manager or anyone else in the company than it is well worth it. Your efforts will never go unnoticed.

Be Friends with Your Boss

Your boss is ultimately the one who controls your destiny. It is in your best interest to get to know them better. This doesn’t mean going to their home, babysitting their kids or buying gifts for them. However, if you’re invited to dinner or cocktails accept the invitation. By learning what makes them tick, you will be able to communicate with them. This can work in your favor.

Be Successful

How to snag a promotion includes having a positive attitude. A positive attitude it can been seen in your facial expressions. Also, it can be seen in the way you carry yourself. Even the speed of your voice can show how you feel about your job. So, it’s really important that you are confident and qualified. When you know you have the training required to do the job well, this can be a huge boost to your self-esteem. Furthermore, it can also make you feel more at home in your job. If you have not enhanced your skills in quite some time, don’t worry. If you work in the engineering industry, go for an engineering masters course. You can even do this online. Which means that you don’t have to give up family weekends. So, it’s worth considering.

Know your Industry

The industry that you work in is constantly changing. So, if you want to know how to snag a promotion it’s important that you keep up with what is happening. A lot of industries have trade magazines or even websites that are completely devoted to news regarding your working niche. By educating yourself, you can show that you have an interest in your job. Just as important, you can also show those around you that you are willing to push yourself to go the extra mile. You can be an example for team members and other office personnel. Demonstrate that that you’re willing to learn. Take a newspaper or magazine in your industry to work with you.

Be the Creator of Solutions

If you want to know how to snag a promotion, bringing a solution to the table is only half of the equation. Your managers want you to bring an actionable plan. When sharing your ideas, help your manager and team members see your vision. Present the path that you will take to implement the idea. You will be seen as an asset to the company. It is these types of employees who often end up with the promotion. Unfortunately, you may not be able to come up with ideas all the time. However, you don’t need to be a never-ending source of knowledge. Just make share you have ideas, and that you share them in a way that provides a solution.

Get a Mentor

If you are new to the company, feel as though you have fallen behind in your job or looking for a promotion, get a mentor. However, you’ll need to make sure that this person has the qualification to help you. Of course, it helps to find someone who you respect too. Your mentor can be someone who works in your company or it could be someone on social media. Take them out for lunch from time to time and talk about how you can be a better employee. It also helps to talk to them about non-work related topics as well. Having a genuine friend in your mentor is always a great thing to have.

Your Communication

One of the biggest mistakes that people make is not coming to the table to talk about issues that they have. You may have a fear of confrontation and this is completely normal. But, honesty is always the best policy. So, you need to make sure that you are always willing to work through conflict. This will help you to become a better leader. Furthermore, it will stop you from dwelling on any work issues that you have. If you leave these problems unaddressed they can cause stress. Stress can affect your job performance as well.

Working Hard

Some employees try to set limits and even boundaries for themselves. They don’t want to get involved in a project that will require them to work overtime. Set your schedule so you can complete your work and still be able to pick up the kids from school or other afterschool activities. If you must work late, have a family member or friend pick up the kids and keep them for a few hours. It’s important that you be home for bedtime and homework checks.

So, how to snag a promotion is possible if you follow the above tips. If you can’t implement them all, pick a few so you can make the most out of the job that you have or want.

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances Tagged With: career promotions, career tips, promotions, working women

How to Balance Motherhood and a Career

March 19, 2018 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

The idea of a woman being a mom and having a career was looked at as pretty much impossible years ago. Later, the idea of a women working became more accepted. However, it was assumed that you had to make a choice between your career and having a family. This idea was thrust upon women by society. Having a career when you’ve got kids can be challenging. But, isn’t that true for fathers too. Here’s a few tips on empowering yourself on how to balance motherhood and a career:

If you want to start following your dreams you will need a starting point. There will be obstacles and challenges while pursuing your career. Teachers must complete the required college courses and on the job training as well. If you want to become a social worker then you have things like lcsw reciprocity to consider. This can applied to any career path. Looking at your ideal career from a distance can be discouraging. Especially, when you have little ones to look after. But, being able to see beyond the potential steps makes it all seem less daunting. Once you stop feeling intimidated, you will figure out how to balance motherhood and a career.

Get organized

Now that you have a family you must utilize your time wisely. If you don’t have a clear routine as a parent, then you’re going to get overwhelmed. Focus on how to get organized if you want to parent and have a career. Organization is key. Organization helps you to work towards your goals. So, you need to have clear chunks of time mapped out for you to focus on. Perhaps it could be something as simple as “when the baby is napping, you’re working.” Or you have a set period of time where you focus exclusively on work every day.

Figure out your priorities

When you have children, your priorities shift. That is a fact. As a matter of fact, the moment your kids are born your priorities change. Your children become the focus of your world. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you forget about everything else that’s important in your life. It just means that you have to be more selective about where you put your attention. For example, if you want to be able to take care of your kids and have a career; your social life might take a hit. We don’t suggest that you stop talking to your friends altogether, but social time may be limited.

Never stop pushing yourself

If you’re trying to raise a family and pursue a career, you are going to be burning the candle at both ends. If you want to reach your goals you’re going to have to push yourself. This means that you need to embrace being busy. If you want to be a career woman and a mom, you need to be self-motivated. This is your life, and you need to be willing to push yourself every step of the way until you reach your goal.

Ask for help

There are going to be people around who will be able to help you. Your partner, your family, your friends, even your work colleagues will be around to support and help you when you need it. The truth is, no one can get by without some help. Your pride might take a bit of a bruising when you need to ask for help, but it’s better to ask than to take too much.

Be realistic

In life, there are always going to be sacrifices that need to be made. Because of this, you need to be realistic about what you can actually once you’re a mom. The idea of working a job that takes you to all corners of the earth simply isn’t realistic when you have kids. Think carefully about whether or not your career goals are actually achievable.

Plan for the future

Of course, being a parent doesn’t mean the same thing forever. In reality, parenting changes as your kids get older. So, you might not be in a position to pursue your dreams when you’re knee deep in diapers. However, as your kids get older you will be in more of a position to plan and set goals. When your children are at school, you can focus on you. As a matter of fact, the older and more independent your children get, the sooner your can start focusing on your career.

Just remember, there is nothing wrong with wanting to dedicate your life to your family. Remember, it’s your life, live it the way that you want! We hope that you will find our tips on how to balance motherhood and a career useful.

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances Tagged With: careers, motherhood, working women

15 Ways To Make Extra Money From Home

March 18, 2017 by Rhonda Gales 9 Comments

Today, I’m sharing financial tips on ways to make extra money. Looking for an avenue to make a little extra money? Corporate America or just the work force period, is not for everybody. Additionally, many moms don’t want to leave their children to work outside the home. But, you can generate an income working from home.

The first step is to think about your natural talents. Once you zoom in on your talents, start thinking about how you can make a profit from them.

Ways to Make Extra Money:

Crafts – First, if you are crafty get out your glue gun and other materials to make wreaths, center pieces, signs etc. They are great sellers.
Baked Goods – Additionally, if you love to bake start creating cakes/breads/cookies and or cupcakes. They are great sellers. Cakes for parties are always in demand.
Sell Books – In spite of modern technology, people still want to hold a book. Especially, books they can get for a bargain. Hardback, board books, or paperback are all options. Love stories, mysteries, children’s books, and biographies are in demand. They will sell, I’m a buyer.
Refinish Furniture – Turn old furniture into treasures. Sell them on Craigslist or at flea markets.
Sell on e-Bay – Furthermore, children’s clothing is perfect for the e-Bay market. You can get free boxes from e-bay to help curb you expense. I sell on e-Bay occasionally.
Set up a booth at a flea market – Turn someone else’s junk into someone else’s treasure. House hold items, old tools, dishes, kid’s toys are great sellers.
Sell garden vegetables and preserves – Furthermore, farmer’s markets are a great place to sell your backyard vegetables, flowers, sauces, jams and jellies.
Crochet or knitting – Beautifully created crocheted items like baby blankets, hats, gloves, scarfs etc. are money makers. Baby blankets are great baby shower gifts and big sellers.
Digital Scrapbook Sheets – There are tons of scrap bookers out there who love the digit pages versus paper from big box stores. Downloading the pages eliminates driving to stores.
Save seed from you heirloom garden – If you garden, purchase heirloom seeds. Save the seeds so you can sell them. Design a cute seed packet so you can wow your customers.
Teach a class – Additionally, if you’re good at photography, refurnishing furniture, crocheting etc., teach an adult class in your local community or on-line.
Become a dog walker – There are elderly dog owners or professional people who will pay to have their dog walked during the day or evening. Start advertising.
Sell your jewelry – People love unique pieces of jewelry. You can sell on e-Bay, Etsy, flea markets, or set up a web site.
Clothing for dogs – If you can design and can sew, knit or crochet, sell your designs to dog parents. They love to dress up their little darlings too.
Dog Treats – Last, make and sell healthy dog treats to pet parents. Create a cute packaging concept and sell them on-line or locally.

So, we hope that you liked our tips on how to make extra money from home. Finally, get creative and come up with a plan. Plans help you to set goals. Start by setting a date on which you want to start selling. Work towards it. Women do it every day, you can do it too.

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances Tagged With: how to earn money, income ideas, money management

How to Make Additional Money

March 17, 2017 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

When you’re a parent, it can be so hard to save money. Especially if you’re already living on a tight budget. Furthermore, it can feel like you’re constantly grasping at straws. Trying to figure out the right thing to buy or the best thing to do when investing or spending your money can be intimidating. Actually, it’s not something that most people think about unless they’re in the situation. We have tips on how to make additional money. Here’s a few tips on how to make additional money:

Sell Unwanted Items Online

First, there’s a lot of money to be made from selling items that you no longer need. Sites like eBay and even the marketplace on Facebook allow you to turn your trash into other people’s treasures. Set aside a day to box up things that you haven’t used in months. If they’re seasonal, but you haven’t used them in any season whatsoever it’s an item to sell.

Next, it can be hard to let go of things that are sentimental to you. But if they don’t bring you joy any longer or you don’t get any use out of them, there’s no point in keeping them. Furthermore, children’s clothes bundles can bring quite a bit. They are great items to help you line your back pocket. So, make a list of the items that you want to sell and list in size order. Take quality pictures and get them online to sell.

Choose a Good Savings Account

It can be easy enough to open a saving account. However, you need one with a good interest rate. Additionally, look for an account that will allow mobile check deposits, has a competitive rate, deposit insurance and no money fees.

Look For Extra Work

Also, think about what you’re good at and how you can make money. The couple of hours a night that you spend on social media or watching television can be used to make a profit for you and your family. Another way to make additional money is to look for work from home opportunities available online. Choose one that will fit in with your niche. If you are a quick typist, you could look into transcribing for hospitals, courts and other professions. Additionally, there are companies looking for hosts to sell their party products. Do research and talk to friends so you can find them.

Utilize Coupons and Vouchers

There are websites and forums dedicated to coupons and vouchers. Learning frugal money-saving tips and tricks is one way that you can stay within a budget and save. You could go to sites like DontPayFull.com: 100+ money saving tips. Implement what you can into your life.

Don’t Say No To Freebies

If somebody is offering you something for free, and there’s a chance to sell it, don’t say no! Again, someone else’s trash is another person’s treasure. Recycling unwanted items is a great way to update your home. With a coat of paint, most old furniture can be upcycled into something that looks as good as new.

We hope that our how to make additional money tips have inspired you to either implement a few or become creative and come up with a plan. Every dollar saved will move you a little closer to your goal.

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances Tagged With: how to make money, saving money, work at home opportunities