​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.

​Vacations are the hard-working American’s relief from the stress of deadlines, gridlocked commutes and the unrelenting pressure of meeting the boss’s expectations. It’s the one time when stress should be a non-factor as you unwind from the daily grind. Unfortunately, a surprising number of people experience stress when they’re on vacation, notes Quartz, or preparing for one. If you happen to be short on time and budget it can be difficult to plan and enjoy a trip that’ll help you take the edge off. These days, there are lots of resources that can help you tailor a vacation to your means and desires.
 
Any vacation starts with a few “big-picture” decisions, choices that determine where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, and what you’ll do when you get there. The first step in putting together a stress-free vacation is to pick a locale and transportation that make sense for you and your family. Travel agents can help you get good deals on travel and accommodations, but remember that with a little time and patience you can put together a trip that’s both memorable and cost-effective. Real Life with Heather has a few ideas on how to do just that.

​Don’t forget that a stress-free vacation is one that allows you to make the most of vacation activities. That can be hard to do if you’re spending too much of your budget on travel expenses. Consider enrolling in rewards programs that allow you to get in on deals, flight upgrades and other benefits. U.S. News & World Report points out that one popular option is to sign up for a credit card with an airline so you can rack up privileges and rewards as quickly as possible. Focus on low-cost carriers and steer clear of the frills and options that’ll dig into your vacation funds unnecessarily. Book your flight early, pack light and carry on as much gear as you can: that’s a good approach for any traveler.
 
You’ll want to keep your money and valuables safe during your travels, especially when you’re going out of the country. If you’re taking in the natural wonders and local attractions in places like Cancun, Kathmandu or Paris, your excursions can quickly become chaotic if you come across any problems like a theft or an accident that requires medical attention. To travel with added peace of mind, consider setting up an account with an inexpensive money transfer service before you leave home. Using a service like Remitly, for example, allows you to receive funds from the U.S. to Nepal for as little as $3.99 for transfers in just minutes. 
 
Also, don’t dismiss the wonders of traveling by car, van or recreational vehicle. Vacation time is a great opportunity to load up the car and take in the scenery with your family. Your AAA membership can put you in touch with lots of travel resources, such as construction upgrades and free towing if you break down. If you like being one with nature, camping is a fun and budget-friendly option. America is chock full of beautiful campsites.

Don’t underestimate the importance of securing your house and protecting your valuables while you’re gone. There are a number of options available these days, everything from smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your home in real time to home security systems that alert the police the moment someone breaks in. If putting a new bulb in the front porch light isn’t enough security for you, look into a robust and dependable source of home protection. ​

​The number of people struggling with mental health issues has been on the rise ever since the pandemic started. Lack of social interaction has caused us to develop different types of depression - the most common of psychological disorders, but unfortunately, not the only one. Issues of mental nature are rarely discussed due to a fear of being misunderstood, rejected even. Sadly, the lack of awareness towards the subject has caused the public to develop a certain stigma around it. There are a variety of mental health myths circulating out there, mental health myths you should not believe - six of which we are just about to be busted!

Mental disorders are no joke. The consequences caused by them can, quite literally, be disastrous, fatal even. The thing is, recognizing problems of psychological nature can be tough, not only for the person experiencing them but also for their loved ones. In order to be able to identify the issue, one must become aware of what constitutes a mental disorder. And the first step towards raising awareness is busting the myths that have, for so long, been confusing the public.

The exact cause of mental conditions can't always be pinpointed. Scientists do agree on the fact, though, that susceptibility to certain illnesses can be passed down from one generation to the next. In most cases, however, people develop such disorders in life rather than being born with them.
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Despite us not knowing the cause of such illnesses, recovery is something that isn't all that far-fetched. Milder psychological disorders, for instance, can be fully resolved. As far as more serious conditions are concerned, we cannot talk about the complete "cure". We can say, though, that their symptoms are, in most cases, manageable. That means that a return to a normal lifestyle is possible for a majority of people with mental health conditions. With time, their condition will improve as long as they follow through with proper treatment.

Believe it or not, exercise plays a significant role in mental health recuperation. Research has shown that regular exercise actually helps people feel good mentally and thus, promotes faster recovery. The importance of physical activity has been recognized by psychiatrists as well, many of which often turn to prescribing it to their patients.

Another one of the mental health myths you should not believe is that children cannot develop disorders. The truth is, anyone can suffer from a mental condition. The age of an individual has absolutely nothing to do with the state of their mind. Actually, reports have shown that it is more common for disorders to present themselves early on in life. Most frequently, during the pubescent period.
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Puberty, in and of itself, is a tough period for every child due to hormonal changes that occur in the body. The hormones can sometimes negatively impact the mind and lead to a variety of mental problems. Unfortunately, these do tend to go unnoticed for quite some time.

​An outright lie! They are much more common than one might think! Before the pandemic, it has been estimated that 1 in 4 people suffered from a mental disorder of some kind. COVID-19 has managed to further exacerbate the problem.

​Actually, the complete opposite is true. Somebody who has a mental illness is not weak but incredibly strong. Strong because they are trying their best to cope, despite the burden of their condition. People that have never experienced what it means to battle a psychological issue, like depression, cannot begin to fathom how hard it is to go about your day while having something that's constantly bothering you. They cannot possibly understand how hard it is to wake up each morning feeling down, trying to hide your inner thoughts from the rest of the world. It takes an extreme amount of willpower to do all of that - something that a weak person would definitely not be able to gather.

​The media has made it appear as if it's only women that are at risk of developing eating disorders. This is, however, nothing but another one of the mental health myths you should not believe! Sure, women might be more prone to suffering from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and similar, due to the media's obsession with body image. But men are not spared, either! Studies show that 15% of anorexia patients are precisely males. If we are talking about overeating, the percentiles are even higher, with 25% of all cases of this disorder being associated with men.

​The power of love shouldn't be neglected! Earlier, we mentioned that exercise can aid mental health recovery. It's similar with love, or actually, with loved ones willing to help. But how can they be of assistance? Well, by being able to recognize the symptoms of psychological issues. Be wary of the following symptoms:

• a change in the behavior
• feeling blue for prolonged periods of time without apparent improvement in mood
• lethargy
• insomnia or constant sleeping
• drowning oneself in work
• withdrawing into oneself
• poor or increased appetite
• seeking comfort in alcohol, drugs, or both

As far as the mental health myths you should not believe go, hopefully, you've learned better now than to fall prey to them. With newly found knowledge about the matter, you should be able to recognize symptoms of possible disorders in your loved ones. If they happen to be going through a tough time, it's important you be there for them. Provide them support, medical assistance, and shower them with love and patience. While the road to recovery is certainly going to be long, eventually, better days will come.

​The pandemic changed life for people around the world in many ways. Women, in particular, have been disproportionately affected. Both stay-at-home moms and women in the workplace experienced a significant shift across all areas of their lives. Real Life with Heather presents some ideas to help women make money by pursuing some online jobs.

​Women typically take on more household responsibilities than men, including housework and caregiving. They carried more responsibility to help children with remote learning during shutdowns while still addressing their work and household tasks. The pandemic created a more significant need for flexible work arrangements for families with children.

Due to women's overrepresentation in in-person jobs, pandemic shutdowns forced them out of the workplace in large numbers. According to a survey, 56% of women have considered a professional change during the pandemic. After months of navigating a new life, women want to return to work but have new conditions. They are looking for jobs that have better growth prospects and greater flexibility. Fortunately, today's digital world offers opportunities to generate income online for women who are out of work or who want a career change.

If you are like many other women impacted by the pandemic, you want a job that allows you to make your schedule so you can work around your family's needs and obligations. Consider some of the possibilities for flexible ways to make money from home:
Virtual Assistant: Work remotely arranging travel, scheduling meetings and appointments, preparing reports, entering data, and organizing projects. This position requires organizational skills and a strong work ethic.

• Online Tutor: Use your knowledge to help students succeed.
• Freelancer: Utilize your skills and experience to offer services like social media marketing, website design, graphic design, video editing, writing and more.
• Content Creator: Start a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel. Choose a niche and monetize your account to earn passive income.

​Build an online shop to sell items you make, set up a consulting firm, create an interior design company, or start a home bakery operation to be your own boss. Focus on your areas of expertise to choose something you can develop into a successful business.

Once you have your idea, select the proper legal business structure for you. Forming a limited liability company offers many advantages, such as tax benefits, flexible operating agreements, limited liability protections and minimal paperwork requirements. Each state has unique regulations regarding LLC formation, so make sure you learn the requirements before you begin the process.

​After defining your business purpose, setting up your company, and taking care of the legal details, you can focus on marketing your new endeavor. Effective marketing has significant results on your bottom line. Spend time designing your brand and utilize consistent marketing and messaging so people can easily recognize your company.

Logo design is an essential aspect of building brand awareness with potential clients. It helps you make a solid first impression and separates your operation from the competition. Hire someone to design your logo or save money by using a free logo design maker. Online systems make it easy to create the perfect design for your business. You choose from various digitally-created logos after inputting your text and specifying an icon and desired style. You can further adjust the design by selecting your preferred colors and fonts.
 
Lifestyle changes stemming from the pandemic have changed how women approach their work lives and career choices. You can embark on new job opportunities that help you create balance in your life by embracing online possibilities for jobs or new startups.

Business owners and professionals can feel additional pressure at the end of the year. Some may even be struggling to enjoy the holidays. From striving to meet year-end goals to scrambling to get documents together for the end of the quarter (and beyond for the upcoming tax season), they cannot completely break away from work to enjoy the holidays.
 
If you are looking for a way to be productive during holidays, Real Life with Heather hopes these tips will help. 

​Even though you may be facing a long commute home for the holidays, you can use the downtime to your advantage and make it a point to be productive while you’re on the road. Of course, make sure you’re not the one driving. Consider using apps so that you can make alerts, gather your to-do list, or make notes. Your travel time is also a great time to clear your inbox, re-evaluate your goals, and analyze your marketing and sales progress. All it takes is a smartphone and a few productivity apps, and you’ll soon be getting your work done as you travel. When you get to your destination, you’ll be able to enjoy more time with the family.
Once you arrive, set your phone to the side as much as possible so you can be fully present when you’re with others. 

​If you won’t be at home during the holidays, consider doing some things differently to free up more of your time. There’s no need to overextend yourself when decorating your home if you won’t be spending a lot of time there. If you typically take the time to put up a real tree, go for a small artificial one this year to avoid the hassle. Hang a wreath on your door and turn on your porch light instead of taking the time to string lights on your shrubs and trees.
 
Travelers should learn to buy gifts online rather than taking the time to visit shops. When you do make online purchases, ship them to your loved one’s home so you don’t have to travel with the gifts and worry about the extra luggage fees. Once you get to your destination, you can wrap the gifts or put them in gift bags. It’s worth noting that airport security may open wrapped gifts, so don’t wrap any gifts that will be traveling with you on the plane.
 
It’s also a good idea to carefully choose which holiday events you need to attend. Prioritize parties that can provide networking opportunities, because they may help you meet some of your year-end goals.

Often, it’s difficult for business owners and busy professionals to ask for help with their work. The truth is, you will be able to accomplish more if you know your limitations and recognize when it is time to ask for some assistance. You should keep the work that requires your expertise and delegate that which does not. For example, your assistant or secretary could order the cards or gifts for your clients to ease some of the holiday burdens on you.

​Working from home is common practice nowadays. And if your business hasn’t moved in this direction yet, ask if the option of working from home is available. The time your daily commute takes away from getting something done is a viable reason to request time to work from home. This way, you can spend more time on what’s important, and less time on what’s not. Plus, there are fewer distractions at home, allowing you to focus on your work in a more efficient manner. If you do make the switch to working from home, it’s important to set up your space to ensure it’s a happy and healthy area where you can be productive. To enhance your workspace, add some plants and artwork, open the shades for more natural light and make a point to avoid clutter. 

Finally, take some time to look ahead to the new year, and think about new goals you want to meet. For example, if you mean to return to school for a career or business boost, take steps toward enrollment before the end of the year. Put it on your to-do list to explore degree programs that are flexible and offer competitive tuition. Or perhaps you’re starting to realize how overly reliant you are on your phone. If you have trouble putting down your smartphone, the new year presents the perfect time to look at adjusting your digital habits. This type of detox can help people amplify their productivity as well as reduce screen time and that feeling of being tied to a phone.
 
With these tips in place, you’re bound to be more productive. Just don’t forget that it’s the holidays, and your newfound boost in productivity means that you will have more time on your hands. Enjoy it with your loved ones.

​Many people around the world struggle with seasonal depression or seasonal affective disorder. If you are one of them, the winter months are probably tough for you. However, there are some ways you can ease and manage your seasonal depression. By changing your habits and putting the extra work in, you may not completely cure your SAD, but you can definitely learn to minimize it and live with it! In the rest of this article, we will share some of our favorite tips for managing seasonal depression.

​Seasonal affective disorder, commonly known as seasonal depression or SAD, is a form of depression triggered by changes in daylight and weather that mainly occur in winter.
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What causes SAD? Some experts believe that seasonal variations interrupt the body's inner clock that controls how we function throughout the day, causing us to feel invigorated and alert at times and tired at others. Another hypothesis is that the changing seasons affect chemicals that regulate sleep, mood, and emotions of well-being, such as serotonin and melatonin. Whatever the cause, there are some ways you can consider managing seasonal depression.

As it does for other types of depression, exercise can help alleviate SAD because it helps boost your mental health. Moreover, exercise can also help with weight gain, which is a common side effect of seasonal depression. Outdoor activity is one of the most effective treatments for SAD symptoms. However, if it's too cold or snowy to exercise outside, try using a treadmill, stationary cycle, or elliptical machine near a window at home or the gym. If you don't have home exercise equipment, yoga is a great alternative too. You can find tons of great yoga videos and instructions online that can help guide you through your exercises.

You may not think social activities play such an important role in managing your seasonal depression, but they do. Studies have discovered a link between social isolation and depression. And, as we know, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people have been isolated than ever before. That's why it's critical to come up with new strategies to keep connected with others during these times. Begin by spending time with family and friends in a nearby park, participating in outdoor sports, or taking walks when the weather permits.
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If the wintertime darkness, weather, and COVID-19 have you staying indoors more than you'd like, there are alternative methods to socialize besides the in-person contact. FaceTime or set up Zoom calls with friends and extended family members when the winter weather makes it too chilly to be outside or too dangerous to drive. Staying in touch with the people you care about will help ease your seasonal depression.

If you have recently moved in with a roommate you get along with, consider spending more quality time with them. However, living with a friend is not always easy; it certainly has its challenges. You may bicker a lot about house chores, but don't let these silly arguments lead to isolation. Do your best to compromise and work through your problems together. Falling out with a person you care about can only hurt your feelings and worsen your seasonal depression.

​People who suffer from seasonal depression frequently have difficulty sleeping at night and waking up in the morning. Having a regular sleeping schedule and sticking to it can improve your sleep, which might help with seasonal depression symptoms. This means you should also avoid napping during the day, which can only worsen your symptoms. Maintaining a regular routine allows you to be exposed to light at consistent and predictable intervals. Furthermore, eating at regular intervals can help you avoid overeating, which is also a common symptom.

Another way you can manage your seasonal depression is by using a "lightbox" for light therapy. This method is also known as phototherapy, and it's most useful on days when you don't get enough sunlight. These lightbox devices give off light that mimics sunshine, which helps a lot to those living with SAD. Typically, after getting a lightbox, you'll have to sit in front of it for about a half an hour a day. It's best you do this within the first hour after waking up in the morning. This should result in a chemical change in your brain that will improve your mood and mitigate the symptoms of seasonal depression.
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Similarly, many people with SAD tend to purchase dawn simulators. These gadgets are alarm clocks, but instead of blaring or playing loud music to wake you up, they emit light that gradually grows in intensity, much like the sun.

​According to experts, keeping a daily journal or a daily planner is excellent for those struggling with seasonal depression because it helps them prioritize life's challenges and identify their depression triggers. When you journal, you release all your thoughts, feelings, and concerns on the page. So, set aside at least half an hour every day to write your journal. Write or draw whatever feels right; don't feel like it needs to look good - it's for your eyes only. It's best to do this at night so you can think clearly about everything that has transpired in the previous 24 hours. Moreover, after you have written everything down and got it out of your system - you should feel relieved and ready to sleep.

While changing your daily habits can certainly help maintain a healthy lifestyle and good mental health, sometimes that's not enough to combat seasonal depression. Sometimes, it's best to talk to an expert: your doctor.
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Because it is a type of depression, seasonal affective disorder must be diagnosed by a mental health expert. Seeing a specialist if you have SAD can help you work through it. Moreover, they might prescribe you antidepressants if they think it would help you manage your seasonal depression. So, before going to your doctor, prepare for the fact that you might need to use the medication from autumn until spring.

Now more than ever, a home is more than just a home. For those starting a new business, home may be where your company is located. New business owners need a space that encapsulates all the necessary components: an office, storage, and ample living area. After work, entrepreneurs then need their home to be an ideal space to unwind and spend time with family and friends.
 
Business owners who are just starting can find a home that accommodates a space for living and working. One important consideration for new business owners is finding a place that will work in the long term as your business expands, as well as meeting the needs of your personal life. Real Life with Heather presents some tips you need to consider.

​When shopping for a home as a new business owner, create a checklist of your most important criteria. Staying focused on your needs is crucial as you shop for a house, and it can prevent you from getting swept away by the cosmetic details of a home that may not otherwise be practical. Jot down ideas you like, and even create a dream board of design elements to later incorporate into a home that suits your needs for living and working.
 
Consider the number of bedrooms you need, keeping in mind any plans for having children and providing ample room to play and work. It may also be wise to consider a guest room for family and friends who visit.
 
Business owners should also prioritize a home office. Depending on the type of business you operate, you may need storage space for your supplies and a manufacturing area. If your business primarily takes place online, then you’ll need an internet connection that’s both speedy and reliable. In fact, internet speeds and availability may help determine where you’ll move. 

​If you are having a difficult time finding a home that works for you, it may be time to think about having one custom-built. Weight the pros and cons of buying versus building a home. Some of the important considerations are timeframes, building costs, and land-prep fees. Home construction can be costly, but repairs and renovation fees to an existing structure can be pricey as well. It may be wise to consult a contractor and obtain estimates prior to deciding.
 
Modular homes are also popular choices among new homeowners in today’s market, and they can be completed much faster than a stick-built house. Shop around with varying modular dealers to identify setup fees and other costs. Whether you opt to build or go with a modular, there are many quality builders available. Once you have found your ideal home, the moving process begins. Many people dread moving, but there are ways to reduce the stress and create a plan that gets you into your new home without issue.

​One of the best steps you can take as you plan to move is to reach out to moving companies and hire professionals to assist you. Movers can be easily found online in your area in just a few keystrokes. Be sure to check out the ratings and rates of several movers prior to making any commitments.
 
As you pack your belongings, stick to an organizational strategy that will make your unpacking process simple. Declutter your home and get rid of unnecessary items prior to packing. Consider packing an hour each day, rather than swamping yourself with the task all at once.
 
If you take your time and stay organized, your moving process will be much smoother in the long run. Soon you will be settled into your new home-based business and living the life you have always envisioned. You can find your ideal home that meets the needs of your new business and personal life.

Think estate planning is only for seniors? Well, estate planning can be just as smart for you as it is for your parents and grandparents. That’s because the point of creating an estate plan is to protect your loved ones from the undue stress of having to make decisions and foot financial obligations when they are also dealing with their feelings of grief over losing you. Wondering where to start? Real Life with Heather shares some crucial estate planning steps every adult needs to take. 

​If you want to save your parents or other loved ones from having to cover your end-of-life costs, you should consider buying burial insurance. Burial insurance tends to be fairly budget-friendly and provides benefits that can offset funeral expenses and help out with debts, including personal loans and hospital bills. You should determine what all your final arrangements will entail and how much you need to protect your family. 

Burial insurance provides basic financial protection and can benefit just about anyone. If you have larger debts or a family who depends on you for income or care, CNBC suggests you really should be researching life insurance as well. The larger payouts that come with standard life insurance can help with mortgages and other major expenses, plus your policy will likely be cheaper.

If you want to ensure that your life insurance or burial insurance funds will cover funeral costs for your loved ones, then you also need to plan your own funeral, notes The Motley Fool. This may seem like a stressful task but using an online guide can help keep you focused and objective. Once your plans are laid out, you should share them with a trusted friend or loved one, to ensure they are honored. 

​Parents need to think even more seriously about estate planning. One of the most crucial steps parents can take to protect their children is to appoint legal guardians/conservators. This will ensure that kids do not end up with family members they do not know or even in the foster system. Have furry kids in your family? You should appoint caregivers for your pets as well so that you will know they are taken care of even if the unthinkable should happen to you.  

​Having a plan for long-term care can be crucial for your well-being, whether you’re in assisted living or a nursing facility. Many younger people choose to purchase long-term care insurance to help offset the costs. It’s never too early to research facilities and their costs to get an idea about potential expenses. Senior Care offers pricing information on several Dallas-based skilled nursing facilities. 

​When you need to appoint guardians or caretakers for your pets and children, AARP points out that you typically include those details in your last will and testament. This is a legal document that ensures your last wishes are carried out after your death, and your will should also include other provisions regarding your estate. For example, if you have any personal property or assets, you can use your will to divide them among your friends, family members, or even charities. 

Because your friends and family members can also be faced with making decisions about your medical care during an emergency, you should also include advanced medical directives in your estate and end-of-life planning. Decisions to be made include whether you would like to be resuscitated, donate organs or stay connected to life support systems. These directives require a physician before they can be honored, but you will also need to assign a power of attorney. And as with many of these steps, it’s important to discuss these matters with a lawyer.

​Last but not least, if you have any documents regarding bank accounts, personal info, life insurance policies or passwords for essential accounts, you should make sure these papers are kept organized and in a safe location. Also, make sure that a close family member or friend will have access to these documents in the event of your passing so that they can take care of any crucial business. Taking this important planning step can save your loved ones a lot of stress.
 
Estate planning may seem like a waste of time when you feel like you have your whole life ahead of you. The truth is that you can never predict when the unthinkable will impact you and your family. So, protect them by checking estate planning off of your to-do list. 

​Everyone knows that exercise is good for your physical health, but what about your mental health? According to research, leading a physically active lifestyle rather than a sedentary one can significantly impact our well-being. Not only do we get to look good, but we also get to have a healthy mind in a healthy body. If you're wondering how it works, check out these 5 ways exercise can boost your mental health.

To begin, you could incorporate some physical activity that doesn't require a lot of time or effort into your daily routine. For example, you can choose to walk or cycle to your workplace instead of taking the bus or going by car. Then you can gradually add some organized physical activity a couple of days a week. Going to the gym, running, or having a home exercise routine, for instance. In the end, the goal is to make exercising an essential daily habit that will help you enhance both your physical and mental health.
Now that you know how to start being more active, here are the reasons why you should keep workouts in your daily routine. 

​Lack of sleep can affect your capacity for concentration and induce anxiety. That can have a negative effect on your working capacity and social skills. Being physically active can increase not only the quality but also the quantity of your sleep. Exercising has the same effect on your body as a shower, by raising its temperature. A high body temperature means that you are active, so your mind will stay awake. When your body starts to chill, it gives the mind the signal that it is time to sleep. That is why exercising first thing in the morning is a great way to get your mind and body ready for the day. On the other hand, doctors recommend avoiding exercising right before sleeping and leaving at least 2 hours in between. As much as exercising can help you overcome your sleeping problems, it can also increase them if done improperly.

When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, which are the chemicals that make you feel happy. The more and regularly they are produced, the more comfortable and less anxious you will feel. Exercising also helps you keep your mind active and free of the negative thoughts that are fueling depression. Furthermore, doctors advise those suffering from anxiety and mild depression to try exercising before turning to medicine. It is an easier way to treat your mind and save money on medications. Also, you don't need to spend too much time exercising. 15 to 30 minutes a day will release enough endorphins to keep you happy.

Aside from being good for your body and mind, you can have fun while exercising and turn it into something enjoyable. Instead of staying alone at home, exercising with friends could help you maintain a healthy social life. That will boost your mood and especially your mental health. Doing yoga with a friend or running through the park together is a great way to socialize and have fun. Even going by yourself to fitness classes can help you make new friends that have common interests. At the same time, exercising could be done while playing. So, you could use games to have fun with your kids or family while also working out. For instance, you can play tag in the yard or have a cycling competition through a park. In a word, one of the 5 ways exercise can boost your mental health is by having fun while working out with your friends and family.

​Stressed people commonly struggle with creativity, which can affect their productivity and create a vicious circle. If you are less productive, it will affect your work, and if you are unhappy with your work, you will become frustrated. People who are frustrated are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as drinking, smoking, and so on. Exercising can help you exit this endless loop and give your brain a boost. Studies have shown that doing cardio, for example, helps your brain produce new cells that will improve its overall performance. Not only does this help boost your creativity, but it also keeps your mind sharp and concentrated. Within 5 to 10 minutes of beginning your workout, you will feel the benefits of exercising for yourself. In the long run, exercising will help you fight addictions, improve your memory and learning capacity.

How we view ourselves is important to our mental health and our ability to cope with social pressures. Even though self-criticism can be constructive, it can do more harm than good if it becomes obsessive. You have to realize that no matter your age or size, you are not the only one struggling with weight problems, health issues, or low self-esteem. There are plenty of people out there that wish they looked different or that they were more healthy. The good news is that exercising can help you grow your self-esteem if you practice it correctly. 
For instance, adding a goal before starting to exercise that you can reach. Having too high expectations from the beginning will only make you lose focus and interest. Instead, take it one step at a time, and grow constantly. You will have better results, and it will improve the way that you perceive yourself. Besides ending up having a great-looking body, you will also improve your mental health.

​People who choose to exercise regularly can feel the impact it has on their mental health each day. They have more energy, sleep better, are more creative and productive, and have higher self-esteem. Who would have guessed that something as easy as exercising for at least 30 minutes a day could help so much? These 5 ways exercise can boost your mental health demonstrate how being active can help you have a healthy mind inside a healthy body.
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