Category Archives: Random Thoughts – Fun Stuff

Out & About, People, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

Get Back Into Work After A Summer Vacation

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A summer holiday can be a great way to recharge your batteries and take a much-needed break from the everyday stresses of life. However, it can often be difficult to get back into the swing of things once the holiday is over, which can cause procrastination and a general lack of motivation.

With this in mind, the tech experts at SaaSGenius.com have compiled a list of sure-fire methods to get yourself back into work mode after a vacation.

Put On Your Favourite Playlist
Nothing quite gets people in the mood for a productive day like a feel-good list of songs. Whether it be the ultimate 80s, a compilation of rock classics or some cheesy pop, music can, quite literally, lift our spirits and motivate us.

So, instead of having the TV on in the background or sitting in silence, stick your headphones in and switch on the tunes.

Make A Realistic To-Do List
One of the first things you may be tempted to do is make a daunting list of things to achieve throughout the day, especially if you feel like you have fallen behind. However, this could lead to you feeling overwhelmed and encourage procrastination.

Making a short, easily-achievable list of tasks would allow you to feel like you’re getting things done, without taking on too much.

Have A Catch-Up With Colleagues
Feel like you’ve missed out on too much of the office gossip? Why not schedule a short call or in-person meeting with some of your colleagues for a light-hearted catch-up, so you can get to grips with anything that might have changed in your absence?

As well as this, being social and starting the day with a conversation could help you to feel more energised.

Surround Yourself With Your Favourite Drinks And Snacks
We all know how important it is to stay hydrated, so make sure you are regularly refilling your water bottle or glass, to keep your energy levels as high as possible. As well as this, in order to add some variety to your day, you could treat yourself to a comforting tea or coffee, or an ice-cold canned beverage for a first-day-back caffeine hit.

If you find yourself distracted by snacks, place some nutrient-dense almonds on your desk, and make sure you have a healthy, balanced breakfast to kickstart your morning.

Wear Something Smart But Comfortable
If you work from home, it can be tempting to remain in your pyjamas for most of the day – after all, who is there to stop you? However, getting up and dressing the way you would to go to the office, applying makeup and styling your hair could help you to feel more motivated.

It would also help to remind you that your vacation is over (for now) and that reality has resumed.

News, Other News, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

DJ’s & Dance Instructor Businesses Set To Be Fastest Growing In 2023

Latest research from Simply Business, one of the UK’s largest providers of small business insurance, based on analysis of over 350,000 new business insurance policies taken out across 2021 and 2022, identified the fastest growing small business sectors.

In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, a new set of thriving small business industries are expected to experience significant growth after a surge in 2022.

KEY FINDINGS:

  • The biggest increase came in the number of project managers – with a 71% rise in 2022
  • Meanwhile, a rise in gift shops (21%), DJs (18%), and dance instructors (12%) reflect wider societal trends in creativity, consumption habits, and a continuation of people looking to turn their hobbies into successful side hustles
  • Project managers, DJs, dance instructors and security guards are among the small business types expected to grow fastest in 2023 – as a new wave of entrepreneurs emerge from a year dominated by the cost-of-living crisis.

The findings come on the back of a recent survey of over 600 small business owners, commissioned by Simply Business, which revealed a quarter (26%) of SME owners are worried they simply won’t be able to pay their bills in 2023. As a result, 15% have no confidence in their business heading into 2023 which has left many looking at alternative ways to obtain a source of income.

Project managers were the fastest growing trade in 2022, with a 71% increase from 2021. With the Covid-19 pandemic changing the way people view work, it would seem many are setting up on their own to take advantage of flexible working hours.

Meanwhile, several new forms of entrepreneurship emerged in 2022, with the number of property managing agents increasing by 34%, plus security guards and electrical engineers rising by 22% and 20% respectively.

And could 2023 be the year where creativity flourishes as people turn their passions into business opportunities? There was an 18% rise in the number of DJs taking out policies in 2022, with gift shop owners (21%) and dance instructors (12%) also featuring in the top ten fastest growing small business sectors.

The number of cafe owners surged by 31% in 2022, while the number of food stalls (9%) also grew, building on the increased popularity of outdoor leisure, food stalls and outdoor dining, accelerated by Covid-19.

Alan Thomas, UK CEO at Simply Business, commented: “Small Businesses and the self-employed are vital to the UK economy, accounting for 99% of all British businesses – with most being impacted by the cost of living crisis.”

“Thankfully small business owners have shown resilience, innovation and creativity at every stage since the start of the pandemic in 2020. And as a wave of challenges persist – it’s incredibly encouraging to see this uplift in UK entrepreneurs leading the way when it comes to our recovery.”

“Put simply, our economy and communities need small businesses to bounce back, so it’s heartening to see a new wave of entrepreneurs seizing the opportunity to start up.”

Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

Searches For Dog Friendly Offices Double In Past Year

Google searches for ‘dog friendly offices’ and ‘jobs that allow dogs’ have more than doubled, since this time last year, according to research by Liberty Marketing.

According to research, 4.7 million households acquired a new pet in the pandemic while majority of people were working from home or furloughed.

However, now that we’ve returned back to the new normal, an estimated 3.4 million households have already given up on their new pet.

HR experts chime in on whether bringing a dog to the office improves productivity and reduces stress, or whether it simply causes distractions.

Molly Dyer, Head of People and Culture at dog-friendly beauty marketing agency Foundation, says: “There are definitely precautions that the team need to take prior to bringing a dog to the office. One of the most obvious ones is ensuring that no employees have any allergies to dogs, and that they’re not scared of them in any way.”

“However, if everyone agrees to having pets in the office, and the pet is well behaved, then there are definitely some advantages to having pets join you while you work. Previous research has shown that having a dog around you while you work will reduce stress, and actually improve morale and productivity – we’re all for that at Liberty!”

“Since the pandemic, we’ve noticed that many employees actually prefer working from home so that they can take care of their new pups. If an office allows you to bring the dog in, then the chances of getting more people in will be much higher, improving efficiencies and team bonding.”

According to Rover.com, three quarters of people would stick with an employer if they offer dog-friendly workspaces. They also revealed that nearly two thirds (65%) say that working alongside their dog improves their mental health and wellness.

Lifestyle, Out & About, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

New Survey Shows Top 20 Bucket List Travel Experiences

A new study has found that most Brits feel that their biggest regret at the end of their lives will be not having explored enough of the world. The poll of over 2,000 Brits, carried out by Bucketlisttravels.com, a new specialist travel inspiration website dedicated to the discovery of the world’s greatest ‘bucket list’ travel, has shown that most of us have a travel bucket list of some description – 40% of us keep it in our heads and only 14% of us actually write it down.

56% say they’d like to see at least five more different countries in their lifetime, with over a third of us doing bucket list travel whenever we get a chance. Not surprisingly, this is highest amongst singles and the younger age groups (nearly 50%). However, almost a quarter of married couples and those living with a partner are waiting for retirement.

Of the thousands surveyed, over a quarter (27%) cited viewing the Northern Lights as their ultimate bucket list experience, followed by an American road trip (17%), a safari in Africa (16%) exploring the Great Barrier Reef (13%) and cruising Norway’s Fjords (13%).

Matt Roach, Founder of Bucket List Travels, says: “The world’s greatest light show, it’s no wonder the Northern Lights came out on top. A remarkable, ethereal light display that’s one of nature’s greatest spectacles.”

Also featured in the top ten most coveted experiences are seeing the Niagara Falls, visiting the Eifel Tower, marvelling at the Pyramids of Giza, visiting the Great Wall of China and whale watching.

Scientific research has proven that there are many holistic, physical and mental benefits of travel – which are significantly enhanced when going somewhere new. In the survey, 38% of us get a feel of achievement having been somewhere new, 36% feel it refreshes their mental perspective on their lives and 32% feel that it helps them focus back on the positives and less on the negatives.

People also say travel helps them build closer relationships with their companions (family and friends), appreciate what they have, gain an increased sense of mindfulness and even enjoy better sleep.

Planning your next big adventure can often bring as much joy as the trip itself, Matt Roach says: “Now more than ever, we all need something to look forward to. Planning your next big adventure or even just anticipating travelling somewhere new or doing something special has been shown to boost mental health.”

6 in 10 of us say that money is the main obstacle to getting things ticked off our travel bucket lists, alongside a lack of holiday time, and the effort needed to research and the risk of going somewhere new.

Matt Roach continues: “I wanted to create a one-stop, trusted site that helps people quickly discover inspirational travel experiences, and then be able to plan a holiday around them. There are so many incredible travel experiences, and they are more accessible than ever.”

“If not now, then later. A ‘travel bucket list’ saves those good ideas we find along the way for when we need them and gives us something to look forward and aspire to”.

The top 20 bucket list travel experiences:

  1. See the Northern Lights
  2. American Road Trip
  3. Safari in Africa
  4. Great Barrier Reef
  5. Cruise Norway’s Fjords
  6. See Niagara Falls
  7. Eiffel Tower & Louvre
  8. Pyramids of Giza/Cruise Nile
  9. Great Wall of China
  10. Go whale watching
  11. Machu Picchu
  12. Alaskan Cruise
  13. Visit the Grand Canyon
  14. Swim with dolphins
  15. Ride the Bullet Train
  16. See the Statue of Liberty/Empire State
  17. Visit Taj Mahal
  18. Visit Galapagos islands
  19. Petra (Jordan’s Lost City)
  20. Visit the Amazon Rainforest

Bucket List Travels currently features over 2,200 curated, trusted recommendations from leading, specialist travel writers, alongside more than 25,000 images to inspire and amaze. It includes most of the world’s signature and famous travel experiences (more being added every week), alongside many lesser known, but equally, if not more, rewarding.

An advanced search engine allows travel-seekers to quickly search these recommendations and filter the results down to their specific needs and desires – a huge time saving.

Once the travel-seeker has found something to do or somewhere to go, the site aims to help in the holiday planning by providing destination guides, recommended places to stay nearby, recommendations of who to book with, and ready-made, simple itineraries.

By making bucket list travel research so much easier, the site aims to become a leading travel planning resource, and the first-place travel-seekers will go to when looking for inspiration or starting to research their next trip. It notably allows users to save their favourites, to create their own personal ‘travel bucket list’.

For more information please visit the Bucket List Travels website here

Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

City Dwellers Have The Blues Due To Lack Of Greenery Where They Live!

A poll of 2,000 people who live in urban environments found two thirds want to see more botanical beauty where they live.

And 26 per cent feel demotivated by the lack of green space in their area, while one in five feel isolated. The results coincide with Blue Monday, the most miserable day of the year for many.

More than half (51 per cent), including those across Yorkshire, think there is not enough investment in urban greening and 43 per cent believe there is just too little space available.

But 57 per cent would welcome more vertical greenery, such as living walls where plants are grown up the side of buildings, to make up for the lack of ground level room in their city.

Others want more trees (43 per cent), flower beds (38 per cent) and grass (36 per cent) – with 78 per cent claiming greenery improves their mental wellbeing.

Those in Brighton are most keen to have more green roof terraces on their buildings (42 per cent), while Birmingham residents would like more trees in their city (53 per cent).

However, Liverpudlians crave greenery the most with nine in 10 wanting to see more of it where they live.

And those in Coventry are the most content with their access to the great outdoors, instead wanting to see more indoor plants in workplaces and public spaces (52 per cent).

The research was commissioned by Biotecture whose managing director, Richard Sabin, said: “Having access to greenspace shouldn’t just be a bonus when it comes to living in a city, everyone should be able to easily enjoy nature.”

“It’s no surprise people feel demotivated and isolated if they don’t have access to greenery, whether that’s at their place of work, where they live or where they socialise. But it’s true cities can lack the space, which is why vertical living walls can be a great solution.”

The majority of city dwellers (79 per cent) enjoy living in an urban place, thanks to the convenience, career opportunities and social life.

Yet 67 per cent would consider moving to a greener suburb or the countryside to be able to enjoy nature more.

Those looking to move want cleaner air (40 per cent), a calmer life (39 per cent), more space (34 per cent) and to be able to get outside more (32 per cent), according to the study carried out via OnePoll.

Although 62 per cent would consider staying in a metropolitan environment if there was more investment in urban greening.

The key benefits of living around plenty of greenery were considered to be having cleaner air (47 per cent) and more wildlife (45 per cent).

Richard Sabin added: “The countryside has its draws, but it’s easy to see why people love living an urban life. Plants and greenery can make our cities healthier, happier, and more resilient to climate change.”

“It’s clear people can enjoy many of the benefits associated with more rural living, whilst enjoying everything our cities have to offer if we prioritise and invest in urban greening.”

People, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

Office Workers Most Productive At 10.22 In The Morning!

Office workers will be at their most productive at 10:22am and hit a slump at 1:27pm, latest research has revealed.

A study of 2,000 employees revealed the ups and downs the typical person goes through, with the afternoon getting progressively worse with a further lull at 2:06pm.

It found 58 per cent said they struggle to get through a day without feeling highs and lows of productivity levels.

Spending too much time in front of a computer (27 per cent), being interrupted by colleagues when in the office (24 per cent) and not taking enough breaks away from the desk (22 per cent) are among the main reasons for not feeling constantly switched on at work.

A spokesperson for Office Freedom, which commissioned the research, said: “It can be so hard to maintain focus during the working day. There’s a host of different distractions which can take our mind away from our work and what we’re supposed to be concentrating on.”

“Having a work environment which helps you be your most productive is important as it makes sure you’re making the most of your time.”

Boosting Office Productivity
The research, carried out by OnePoll, found more than half (54 per cent) agreed they thrived around colleagues in the office compared to working from home by themselves.

And 38 per cent said being in an office environment helped boost their productivity, compared to 22 per cent who felt it hindered their ability to work.

For almost two-thirds of workers (65 per cent), being around colleagues is the best part of being in the office.

Of those who said being in an office helped their effectiveness, almost half (48 per cent) said it was due to a better working environment and being around others (48 per cent).

However, noise levels (36 per cent), room temperature (32 per cent) and colleagues asking questions (32 per cent) were the main drains on productivity in the workplace for those affected.

Energy levels are at their lowest at the start and end of a typical working week, with almost a quarter (24 per cent) finding Monday and Friday (23 per cent) the days where they had the least energy.

The typical workday sees people moan or imply they are tired three times on average. Drinking coffee (31 per cent), going for a walk outside (25 per cent) and having a cup of tea (24 per cent) were the top ways employees give themselves an energy boost to feel more awake in the workplace.

The spokesperson added: “There are so many different factors which can impact how we attack the working day. The office should be a place where you can connect with colleagues and collaborate.”

“For more than half of us, being around workmates is the aspect which we value about the office.”

Food & Drink, Food & Drink News, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

The Nation’s Favourite Brunch…

A study of 2,000 adults found 46 per cent of those who have tucked into the mid-morning meal claim it is their favourite meal of the day – with pancakes, poached eggs and French toast also making the list.

Nearly half (49 per cent) can’t imagine not going for brunch on a weekend, with 21 per cent preferring to do this rather than have a night out with friends.

However, with 56 per cent saying they are now eating brunch at home more often to avoid the cost of dining out, Brits are looking for ways to elevate their own versions.

It also emerged that although 31 per cent cite lack of inspiration as their biggest barrier, 41 per cent are trying to eat more plant-based food this Veganuary.

The research was commissioned by plant-based frozen food brand, Strong Roots, which partnered with cook and 2021 Great British Bake Off finalist, Crystelle Pereira, to create three delicious veggie and plant-based brunch recipes to make at home this month.

The quick and simple recipes include her five-ingredient Cauliflower Hash Brown Sandwich, Miso Mushrooms on Crispy Sweet Potato Hash Brown ‘Toast’ and ‘Vegan Breakfast Tacos’.

Samuel Dennigan at Strong Roots, said: “Move over Sunday lunch, the nation has spoken and brunch is leading the way as our favourite meal of the weekend. We’re thrilled to see the nation is looking for more veggie meal inspiration. With more of us eating brunch at home, Crystelle’s three brunch recipes are a must try, especially for those taking part in Veganuary.”

Half of adults think brunch should take 25 minutes to prepare with six in 10 agreeing they’d eat it at home more often if it took less time to prepare.

Although, of those who brunch, 50 per cent prefer using quick and easy recipes with 43 per cent often choosing something that requires fewer ingredients.

And, according to the OnePoll study, 40 per cent often look out for tips and tricks on how to cook a healthier meal.

The research also revealed almost two thirds (62 per cent) want more plant-based brunch options, with 28 per cent saying eating plant-based food makes them feel like they’re doing their bit for the planet.

While nearly a quarter (24 per cent) say eating plant-based makes them feel better physically, and a further 20 per cent feel better mentally.

Crystelle Pereira said: “It is no secret that the brunch occasion is a weekend classic and it is one of my favourite reasons for family and friends to get together while appreciating good food.”

“This Veganuary, my quick and easy plant-based Strong Roots recipes will help Brits who are stretched for time and looking for inspiration into new ways to elevate their brunch.”

A general catch up with friends was named the most popular occasion for brunching and 64 per cent think it’s the perfect excuse to get loved ones together.

Other reasons for enjoying this ‘light lunch’ include birthdays and engagement parties – with the average Brit brunching three times a month.

More than half (53 per cent) are likely to enjoy it with their partner while a surprising 34 per cent typically eat it alone.

Top 20 brunch meals:

1 – Full English breakfast
2 – Bacon sandwich
3 – Scrambled eggs on toast
4 – Poached eggs on toast
5 – Pancakes
6 – Omelette
7 – Eggs benedict
8 – Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs
9 – French toast
10 – Boiled eggs with toast
11 – Ham, egg and chips
12 – Avocado on toast
13 – Yogurt with fruit
14 – Steak and eggs
15 – Porridge
16 – Fruit salad
17 – Muffins
18 – Waffles
19 – Eggs royale
20 – Frittata

Economic Climate Headlines, Health & Welfare, Health & Welfare Headlines, Lifestyle, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

Top Tips To Reduce Stress From Cost Of Living Crisis

The lingering stress of the cost-of-living crisis weighs heavily on the shoulders of many, and with temperatures dropping, food prices skyrocketing, and the New Year in full swing, it is bound to have an added impact on the stresses of everyday life. Therefore, people up and down the country are looking for tips and tricks to ease and eliminate as much stress as possible.

CBD experts Simply CBD have revealed some tips that will help encourage stress relaxation and a stress-free routine that you can implement into your weekly routine.

New analysis reveals that searches in the UK for ‘reduce stress’ increased 216% over the past month, proving just how desperate Brits are to find solutions for feelings of overwhelming stress. In fact, searches for ‘is stress normal’ has seen a huge 635% increase over the past month in the UK, showing just how concerned people are about stress levels and how they can impact their health.

Self-care
Being mindful of your own needs is essential and focusing on self-care will help reduce stress and anxiety tremendously. Some forms of self-care include maintaining a balanced diet and sustaining a healthy sleep schedule but indulging in pampering is often overlooked.

Pampering doesn’t have to break the bank. Forget spa days or trips away; you can easily indulge in pampering at home:

  • Take a hot bath or shower.
  • Pop on a face mask and read your favourite book – time away from blue light from your phone also helps relax the mind.
  • Light some candles and listen to a meditation podcast.
  • Treat yourself to your favourite home-cooked meal (or take away if you prefer!)

Exercise
Although the thought of exercise can sometimes be exhausting, with long workdays feeling tiring enough, finding the time to get a good workout in can often be the release from a lot of pent-up stress.

Sometimes getting past the mental barrier of doing physical activity is the only thing holding you back from releasing tension and endorphins, aka the body’s natural painkillers.

The exercise doesn’t necessarily need to be intense, and there are many options when it comes to fitting in an hour of increased heart rate:

  • Go on a walk – Whether with friends, family or just by yourself, getting out for some fresh air and moving your body will work wonders.
  • Take part in a local exercise class – there are many different options, such as low intensity Yoga and Pilates, which are great options if you don’t want to do an intense workout.
  • Take part in an online exercise class! – if physically leaving the house to exercise fills you with dread, you will be pleased to know there are thousands of online classes and pre-recorded free videos of workouts that you can do in the comfort of your own home.

Listen to music
Listening to music gives the brain a total workout, and we all know how vital brain health is. By listening to music, you can:

  • Reduce blood pressure.
  • Improve memory.
  • Reduce anxiety.
  • Improve sleep quality.

Not only can it reduce stress, but it can elevate moods and clear the way for emotional expression; this is why it is great that there are so many genres of music to choose from; just pick whatever gets you out of a funk and makes you feel good!

Experiment with hobbies
By experimenting with hobbies that you might have put on the back burner, you are allowing your body to remind itself of something you enjoy and take pride in. Hobbies are a great distraction and can be the perfect way to relax and forget about the stresses of everyday life.

If you’re struggling to think of a hobby, it’s never too late to find one! By making a list of all the hobbies you would love to try, you are already one step closer to expanding your knowledge, widening your range of skills, keeping your brain working and mind off all things stressful.

Turn the phone off and stay off social media
In a world dominated by technology, we have everything at the push of a button, making it hard to imagine life without it, but keeping so up-to-date and caught up on social media can sometimes be exhausting and lead to unhealthy comparisons.

By turning off your phone or limiting the time spent on social media, you can shut off the constant updates and remain solely focused on other things that might bring you joy. Instead of getting distracted by technology, you could be reading your favourite books, spending time with family and friends, giving yourself a well-deserved pamper or just taking a nap, whatever relieves stress from your day!

Health & Welfare Headlines, Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

Tips For Getting Back Into Fitness After The Christmas Break

After much needed time to relax with family and friends over Christmas, getting back into your routine in the new year can be quite the challenge, specifically when it comes to working out. In fact, research shows that one third of Brits admit to doing no exercise at all in December, so it’s vital to start the preparation early.

However, it doesn’t need to be so difficult – experts at Fitness Volt have highlighted five tips to ease yourself back into a workout routine after the festivities.

Set Specific Times
Scheduling your workout time is a simple yet effective step. Getting back into the right frame of mind after the Christmas buzz is just one of the ways you will have to readjust, and it can certainly take its toll on you. So, without a gym schedule, it’s likely that you will make plenty of excuses to not partake in any exercise.

Consider your day-to-day schedule and choose your workout slot based on where you have the most free time – this way, you can mentally prepare yourself as well as avoid any excuses that you are too busy. Plus, a planned exercise slot will ensure that your workload won’t take over, as it’s a given that you will be getting back into a busy work routine, too.

Don’t Over Exert Yourself
While pushing yourself is usually encouraged in fitness, it’s sensible to not push yourself to the extreme, particularly after some time away from exercise. Whether it’s weightlifting or cardio, doing too much exercise can lead to overuse injuries including muscle strains and tendon injuries, thus making you a lot less capable of meeting your fitness goals.

After some time off, it’s natural to not be able to lift as heavy or run as far – so it’s crucial to not let it discourage you, as you will soon gain your ability if you stay consistent with your exercise. As well as this, overdoing it can lead to a burnout in the early stages and make you dread a workout as opposed to enjoy it. If you feel yourself giving up, try to commit to five minutes and finish your workout if you don’t feel capable of doing anymore; but with this five-minute rule, it will likely motivate you to do more.

Personalise Your Workout
Fitness lovers aren’t necessarily all gym-goers. In fact, there’s plenty of ways to workout which don’t involve the gym – and this is key for making it an enjoyable part of your routine again. If you’re a nature enthusiast and wish to do more cardio exercises, go for a run – or even a walk – at your local beach, local park, or even around your neighbourhood.

Alternatively, if you’re into strength training but don’t enjoy the gym atmosphere, invest in equipment such as dumbbells and kettlebells to work out from the comfort of your own home.

Partner Up
Finding a friend with similar fitness goals is beneficial for many reasons, one being that it acts as motivation after some time away. For the days that you don’t feel like exercising, a fitness partner can motivate you to get ready and get it done – plus, during a workout, your partner can even push you to take it to the next level, such as lifting a slightly heavier weight or increasing the incline setting on the treadmill.

Having a partner can also keep you accountable to stay on track of your fitness plan, and recognise any goals that are yet to be met. Better yet, it makes it a time to socialise so that you look forward to it more, not to mention your partner can spot you to make your workout safer.

Set Short Term Goals Too
It’s always important to think of the long-term result; doing so allows you to plan your workout and figure out which exercises are best suited to your needs. However, having only a long-term goal can become frustrating when you aren’t seeing progress straight away, and can even result in you to give up completely – which is especially easy to do when you’re trying to get back into your routine.

Therefore, it’s vital to set goals over shorter timeframes that are manageable, as well as not just focusing on your appearance. For example, you may wish to become stronger, so a short-term goal for the end of a month could be to increase your squat load by 20 kilograms.

A spokesperson from Fitness Volt has commented: “When it comes to Christmas, the last thing that needs to be on our minds is working out – it’s a time that we wish to be spending with family and friends, and it’s important to make the most of that. However, it can be difficult to find our motivation to get back into it from some time off.”

“Thankfully, there are simple steps that can increase your ambition again as well as make your workout more enjoyable to ensure that you can stick to your fitness routine in the new year and, as a result, enjoy the Christmas festivities without feeling guilty.”

The research was conducted by Fitness Volt which is a comprehensive online resource dedicated to Strength Sports, from healthy eating to exercise and everything in between.

Random Thoughts - Fun Stuff

Expert Photography Tips For Capturing Winter Wonderland Photos

With Christmas just around the corner and the winter weather in full swing, it’s important to think about the environmental changes affecting your shots.

“The cold weather around this time of year can create some truly special conditions for photographers,” says Alex Bennett, Head of Marketing at specialist camera insurer photoGuard.

“It’s worth putting some preparation into your next outdoor photo shoot to help you make the most of the seasonal weather”, he adds. If you’re looking to elevate your cold-weather Christmas shots, these tips might be for you!”

Use The Unique Winter Lighting
Cold, frosty mornings can make for great shots as the low natural light setting can seem dramatic with a subject in the foreground. Snowy and frosty objects like trees and cobwebs can also make for great shots since they magnificently reflect light into the lens.

Although this can leave your photos underexposed, so it’s usually worth increasing your exposure for a well-rounded shot!

Play Around With Frozen Water
If you’re looking to try new styles of composition, frozen lakes, ponds and puddles can be a great way to start. Refractions on the ice and mirrored reflections can create some beautiful imagery!

Make The Most Of Snow Days
Some of the best Christmas and wintertime photography can only be done in the snowfall. Since in the UK, snow is a rare occasion, it’s important to get out there early if you want to take some untouched powder shots before everyone else catches on!

Turning up the exposure is a great way to emphasise the brilliance of the snow, especially with some brightly coloured subjects in the foreground for contrast. And finally, on those snowy days, while obvious, wrapping up warm is an important step to avoid having to call the session early (proper planning and preparation, etc).

Protect Your Gear
On cold days, it’s always worth making sure your kit is protected. For a snowy/icy shoot, a tripod is a great piece of equipment to steady your hand. Lens cloths and rain covers are also useful on those wetter days. At this time of year with the colder temperatures, camera batteries are likely to drain faster, so having some spare never hurts!

Finally, while the Christmas season is a great time for those special shots, it’s worth thinking about what happens if your equipment gets damaged.

“Cold conditions can make for great photography, but frozen and slippery surfaces can cause the occasional accident. Exploring your insurance options could be worth thinking about over the holidays” closes Bennett.

Find out more tips here