​If you are looking for a career that can truly impact people’s lives, becoming an independent insurance agent may be for you. But, there are a few steps you should take before launching a new endeavor, whether you plan to own and operate your own agency or want to work for one of the big guys. Real Life With Heather explains a few things you should keep in the back of your mind as you make your decision.

​If you’ve never worked in insurance before, it makes sense to try your hand as a commissioned agent before starting your own business. Even if you don’t have experience in the industry, your resume can help you land a job. Crafting a quality resume is especially important if you are starting your career, such as if you’ve just graduated from college. Give yourself a head start by using a free resume builder to craft a great looking resume. But don’t overshare!
 
As Monster explains, there are many things that you should not include on your resume. A resume writer will avoid redundant and unnecessary bits of information so that only the most impressive and relevant aspects of your professional career stand out.

​No matter where you live, you must pass an exam to become an insurance agent. According to America’s Professor, you might also be required to take an approved course before being allowed to take the exam. Your pre-licensing courses depend on the type of insurance you wish to sell but may include everything from a general overview to ethics considerations.

​Once you get a feel for the industry, you might want to start your own business as an independent agent. If you need to build your business skills beforehand, earning an MBA can boost your expertise in decision making, leadership, and communication. Online degrees allow you to learn on your own time so you can continue concentrating on establishing your business.
 
When you’re ready to get started, choose a name for your organization. To establish an LLC—a step that has many tax benefits—you will need a unique business name. You should also appoint a statutory agent to handle legal documents and notification of time-sensitive events on your behalf. Search online for the steps to starting an LLC so that you can quickly and easily complete this task.
 
Of course, owning a business comes with its fair share of responsibilities, so know your limitations and be prepared to outsource certain tasks that free up your time. This is essential as you get settled into your new career. For example, hiring a bookkeeper or accounting service ensures your ledgers are up to date, and that your taxes are handled by a pro. You may also need to connect with a temp agency or an attorney.
 
Marketing yourself will also be necessary, but you can handle some of this DIY when you first start out. You can accomplish this through cost-effective measures like designing your own logo, building your website, and tapping into social media platforms for your digital marketing efforts. Sites like Squarespace or Wix will allow you to build an elegant website all on your own. Instagram, TikTok and FaceBook are some of the best places to begin your social media marketing, so tap into the free options, or look to their low-cost advertising packages. 

While the job outlook for an independent insurance agency is fantastic, there are many other perks to keep in mind. Insurance is an excellent industry if you want to help improve people’s lives. You can help them find a policy that matches their needs and budget. You’ll get to meet lots of new, local people each day and will stay up-to-date on the technology that drives the industry. Combined with flexible hours and unlimited commission potential, a job in insurance is great for someone with a people-oriented personality.
 
When you’re ready to make a change, consider insurance sales. Whether you want to help people protect their homes and cars or ensure they have enough life and health insurance for their family’s needs, you will make a difference. It is a high-paying and always-interesting career option in an industry that’s always in-demand. And if you choose to launch your own agency, you might just get to know the people in your community, too.
 
This article is brought to you by Real Life With Heather, where I hope to inspire people to take charge of their lives and make them as amazing as they can be. I love my life and you can love yours too. For more information, please visit my site today

​You are probably familiar with the expression: money makes the world go round. Well, we all know that money can’t buy happiness, but it’s really nice to have it. However, the last two years have been hard on all of us, financially speaking. Many people have had to deal with the financial setbacks of the pandemic, and others are still doing so. And when one's life standard drops, it becomes increasingly difficult to have a positive attitude and be happy. But, all is not lost. We need to believe that this will be only temporary and that things will get better. For that reason, this article highlights some valuable tips on how to be happy when you don’t have money. Continue reading to learn how to regain your positive mindset and overcome a financial struggle.

It’s spring, and it’s about time for seasonal depression to start going wild on us. And if you add it to a financial setback, it’s the perfect combination for disaster. However, things aren’t always as dark as they might seem. There are many things in our lives for which we should be thankful. And even if they don’t seem like much at first, just think how your life would be without them. For example, imagine how your life would be if you didn’t have the job you have. Sure, it might not be what you dreamed of, but it helps you pay your bills. And imagine how your life would be without your family and friends. In addition to being broke and depressed, you would also be lonely. Therefore, take the time to appreciate everything life has given you so far, and you will realize just how rich you are.

​Besides not buying happiness, money also doesn’t buy friendships. At least not true ones. And having good friends around you in difficult times can make you happier than any amount of money. Having someone to talk to or spend time with is priceless. The same goes with your family. Having loved ones around you can brighten your day and put a smile on your face. As a result, focus on the positive relationships in your life and nurture them. Have friends and family come over as often as you can and cherish every moment spent together. If you do so, you will have something to look forward to until you meet again.
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Also, think of fun activities that you can do together that don’t require spending money. Organize movie nights, game nights, or sleepovers. In addition, go for walks in the park together, have a picnic, ride bikes or roller skate. These are great and easy ways to be happy even when you don’t have money. In addition, it will help strengthen your bonds with your family and friends.

​Your problems are the most pressing ones because they are yours, and it’s completely understandable. However, never forget that others have their problems too. The coworker that annoys you with his constant blabbering might feel lonely and in need of someone that can listen. Or, that friend that you are talking to about your financial struggles could be having far more money troubles than you do. Therefore, maybe it’s a good idea to stop thinking about yourself for a second and pay attention to those around you. Try to be a good colleague and friend, listen to others, and be more patient and understanding. These are trying times for everyone, not just yourself, and a little compassion will get you a long way. Moreover, being able to comfort someone or put a smile on their face will make you happy even if you don’t have money.

​If you live in an expensive city or neighborhood, it might be time to think about moving. Of course, finding a better place to live can be stressful and challenging, but it might also help you save on living expenses - especially if you move to one of the most affordable West Coast cities. Several of them offer lower living costs, fantastic career chances, outstanding educational opportunities, and lots of entertainment. For example, Irvine, California, Vancouver, Washington, or Eugene, Oregon are some of the best cities to live in on the West Coast. At the same time, you can make the whole process seem like a new adventure for you and your family and make the most of it. You can get everyone involved in research and decide together what type of home would make your family happy. 

​Helping others will make you feel useful while also reminding you of the importance of modesty and giving back to the community. And you do not have to be wealthy to help others. All you need is some goodwill. As a result, get involved in your community and become a volunteer. You can serve food or wash dishes at the social canteen, spend time with the elderly from the local nursing home, or help out at the homeless shelter. Or, you can help your friends or neighbors walk their dogs, do their grocery shopping, and babysit if they need it. You can even think about paying for the next customer at the coffee shop. Small gestures like this can mean the world to some people. And most importantly, making other people happy will make you happy too, even when you don’t have money. 

If you don’t know by now, exercising can boost your mental health. It can improve the quality of your sleep, lower your stress levels, and increase your concentration and creativity. Not to mention that exercising can help you stay fit and healthy, resulting in higher self-esteem. And the best part is that you don’t need money to stay active or work out. A little determination and research will get you started, and once you have experienced the benefits, you will want to keep going.
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Start by looking up some beginner yoga moves or simple exercises on the internet, go for walks or short runs. You can even call a friend or family member to join you and make the experience even more pleasant. That way, you will stay active while also socializing and having fun. 

As you can see, you can still be happy when you don’t have money. You just need to be grateful for what you have, focus on the good parts of your life, and remember that this is just a temporary situation. Stay positive and keep your loved ones close, and you will get through any difficult moment in your life much easier.