A Puzzling Prospect: Is Working As A Team Better Than Working On Our Own?

A Puzzling Prospect: Is Working As A Team Better Than Working On Our Own?

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There is so much talk out there about positive company cultures, holistic approaches to working, and that age-old issue, teamwork. But when you are expanding your business, or just making certain improvements, you need to think about how your team work well together, as well as on their own, and this begs the question, is working in a team better than working by ourselves, or is it on a case by case basis?

Is Teamwork The Be All And End All?

The first thing we need to tackle is the fact that teamwork doesn’t always need to factor in a company framework. Teamwork is certainly a beneficial tool, and we know that this is the key to success in the vast majority of business industries, but what if you are a small startup, where each individual component part needs supreme focus by itself? For example, if you have a skeleton staff, does this mean that each individual role needs to be undertaken with supreme precision? Or does it mean that in order to keep the business afloat, you have to encourage your workers to focus on their own tasks? In these instances, it is nigh on impossible to get a team to work together well because if one individual component was to slacken, this would have a devastating impact on the business. And while teamwork is a great way to build bonds in a human sense, if you are running an organization where it is staggered, for example, remote workers, is teamwork ultimately necessary, or should some good communication suffice from yourself? Of course, if you have remote workers dotted all over the country, or even the world, then it’s not possible to encourage your workers to meet up.

What If Collaboration Is Seldom Needed?

If collaboration is not needed, especially in an office environment, then you have to encourage ways for people to feedback if they feel part of a team or not. Even if people work individually, such as writers or bloggers, then they still need to feel that they are part of a solid unit. But you can do this in other ways. As already mentioned, communication is a great way to make people feel as part of a team, even if they aren’t contacting each other, and it’s just you sending out emails, or, conversely, you can encourage more group-based activities, not just Skype meetings on a weekly basis, but for those groups of people who are working remotely, but are located near to each other, maybe teamwork exercises could benefit. After all, many companies across the world congregate at conferences, and take part in team building activities, or even have fun together, by going to their local escape room and tackling tasks as a team, or just socializing. The one benefit of a meetup on this scale is that so many different working parts of a business are meeting up, and interacting in a human sense. This is something that will benefit remote workers because there can be a sense of isolation.

Should We Encourage More Teamwork?

Remote working a side, if you have people together in an office, should teamwork be encouraged more in a professional sense? It depends on the duties, if you have someone who is constantly on the phone all day, they are, naturally, not going to be able to socialize or speak with other people within their midst. So you need to think about encouraging teamwork in other ways. But this all depends on the type of person you have hired in the first place. The work doesn’t necessarily mean team building exercises would work effectively, but when you are focusing on creating a company culture, where the values of equality and collaboration, even in a non-professional sense, convene a better business where each working part is more efficient. And so, if we are giving duties to people who work by themselves, this will make for a more fragmented company. As a result, to encourage more teamwork, we need to think about the business in a more holistic sense. So, even if you have workers who are by themselves, encouraging these meetups, social functions, or just taking everybody away from their work for half an hour to encourage them to be more social, this will help people to feel like more of a unit, even if they don’t have to work together as a team.

Does A Better Team Mean A Better Business?

Some people prefer to work by themselves, and so, if you have a skeleton startup, where each piece of the puzzle needs to be self-sufficient, then the idea of teamwork is almost non-existent. But this is where those working under their own steam can tend to lose focus after a period of time, and feel demotivated. And it’s in these respects where it’s the leader’s responsibility to help each component see the bigger picture. This is what will provide satisfactory motivation, and will push productivity further. But, even from the perspective of each individual employee, they need to know what they are working towards, and so this is why the bigger picture is vital overall. But when people are on their own, from those at the back of the office to the remote worker, you still need to keep the machine well oiled. A better team does mean a better business, even if the individual components work by themselves. But it’s easy to lose sight, especially if you have people working by themselves, and prefer to have it that way. These people can almost get forgotten about. And this isn’t good for your business in the long run. While these people may be happy to work by themselves, does it mean that they are as productive as you think they are? Not only this, but those that have to work under their own initiative can feel uninspired from time to time, which is vital to consider if you are working within the creative industries. This is why that idea of working as a team, even if each individual person has their own duties, can mean so much to the productivity overall. Ultimately, when people are by themselves, they will feel in the dark, regardless of where they are in the world, even if they are right in front of you. The one constant to improve your business in this respect is communication. It’s a very tricky thing to get right if people are dotted all over the world, but they still feel part of a solidified unit, and this is where the location comes into its own. By implementing a certain practice where you are keeping everybody up to speed is what employees appreciate, and will take with them at the end of the working day.

So, which is better, teamwork, or individual working? It seems that teamwork will always win, hands down, even if the company consists of individual workers. Nobody ever likes to feel on their own in something, because this can make people think they are being left out of proceedings, and if this is the case, you’re not doing your job properly. Regardless of the duties involved in the job, you can’t use this as an excuse to not create a team that compliments each other well. Each moving part, no matter how individual it is, will always work towards one common goal. If people feel that they are on their own, you’re doing something wrong. Teamwork is something that, no matter how big or small the company, needs to be a constant. We can all work on our own, sure, but if we don’t see the fruits of our labors, and if you don’t feel as part of a solidified unit, this creates poor morale and doesn’t do your business any favors.

Top Things You Need to Join a Fishing Club This Summer!

Top Things You Need to Join a Fishing Club This Summer!

The summer presents so many wonderful opportunities for getting outside and enjoying the natural world. There are a lot of things you are going to need to consider when you want to make the most of the great outdoors. One of the best things I love to do when the summer arrives is to go fishing. And there are plenty of chances to expand your love of fishing by joining a proper fishing club this summer.

This is something that lets you flex your fishing muscles and better explore your passion for rivers, lakes, rods, and all different kinds of fish. So, I think it is essential to do what you can to improve the way you approach fishing. If you want to get the most out of your fishing experience and join a fishing club this summer, these are some of the things I think you’re going to need.

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Knowledge of Fishing Etiquette

Believe it or not, there are actually accepted rules and etiquettes you need to keep in mind when it comes to fishing. I found that becoming au fait with things like the rules of fly fishing etiquette is actually really important when it comes to getting the most out of your fishing experience. Also, trust me on this, when you join a fishing club you’re going to need to know the accepted rules and regulations, and being familiar with what is expected when fishing will help with this.

The Right Gear

I would also say that it is essential to make sure you have the right gear to choose from. This is vitally important because it can really make a big difference to the whole process of club fishing. Whether this is getting uniform with custom embroidery that relates to the club or making sure you have the best selection of rods on the market, the right gear is actually crucial. So, I would advise you to do as much as you can to get this right and make the ideal choices moving forward. Going on fishing trips in your local area can be a great way to build fishing experience. Why not click this Key West Fishing Link and organise a fishing trip with some friends!

Different Bait

There are lots of different types of bait you can use when you go fishing, and these can have different outcomes and results. I always make sure to focus on improving and enhancing my fishing adventure, and I find I can enjoy the most success by having a diverse range of bait to choose from. You should visit bait shops and check out the different options to choose from, as this can make a big difference.

Which Club is Right for You?

You also need to make sure you think carefully about which sort of club is the right choice for you to join. I was always of the belief that fishing clubs are all much of a muchness, but this really isn’t the case. Take a look at the way different clubs are run, as well as the rules and mandates they have. Clubs that encourage group or couple fishing are preferable to those that allow solo fishing.

When you are trying to choose the ideal fishing club, you have to think about what it can offer you. Fishing is such a rewarding and peaceful pastime, but you need to make sure you have the right gear, and that you’re au fait with the etiquette and rules if there are any. You can have a great time fishing this summer, and it is important to think about what you need to get the best out of joining your new fishing club this summer.

4 Fitness Hacks We Can Learn From Our Kids

4 Fitness Hacks We Can Learn From Our Kids

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There’s a lot to love about kids. They are happy, energetic and lovable. They bounce around life without a care in the world and are by no means cynical. In short, they are the people we want to be when we get older.

Although we are the parents, the people who guide them, it’s the children that teach us a lot about living, and fitness is no exception. Forget personal trainers and gym buddies because your kids have the answers. All you have to do is watch and learn.

Here are the things you see when you stop to take a look at their attitude towards health.

They Say No

And they say it, like, a lot. “Eat your vegetables,” drink your water” and “stop snacking” are all things which fall on deaf ears. Kids do the opposite because they don’t want to bother eating their leafy greens. The tip here is not to follow suit. Children can do it because their metabolisms are on the highest setting and they burn off calories. They bounce back; adults don’t. As you age, you can’t afford to do the same things you did as a youngster. It’s essential to eat right and exercise to stay in shape and add years to your life.

They Try New Things

Some kids are skeptical, but most are happy to do the things they think they will love. As long as it involves the outdoors and excitement, then they are ready for an adventure. Sure, they might need to read this Prepared Bee survival guide before they go camping, but that’s not much of a sticking point. Adults are less open for one simple reason: self-esteem. You hate the idea of signing up for dance lessons or joining a new gym because you think people will judge. Well, with an immature attitude, it doesn’t matter what they believe.

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They Socialize

Leave a group of children in a room and they’ll be best friends within one hour. How does this help your health and fitness goals? It does it through solidarity. Funnily enough, middle-aged men and women aren’t as fearless as their kids. You need someone by your side to lose weight or to eat healthily. Sadly, friends and family won’t jump on the bandwagon, so you need to find a new clique. Socializing will encourage you to try new things, such as joining a club or sticking to a diet.

They Never Stop

Once they’re in bed, you stretch out on the couch. You’re shattered, and it’s because the kids don’t stop moving all day. Their energy is limitless, and that’s what keeps them slim and young. Parents can’t keep up, but they can try basic tricks to stay on their feet. For example, swap driving for walking. The calories you burn by doing this should eliminate any excess fat and get you down to your target weight. Never stop moving, people.

 

Are you taking notes? Don’t you think you should be?!

Find more help about fitness here.

Our Impact On The Environment Might Be Even Bigger Than We Thought

Our Impact On The Environment Might Be Even Bigger Than We Thought

With summers seemingly getting longer and hotter, and more turbulent weather than we have ever experienced on record, it’s no wonder people are thinking about the climate. However, our impact on the environment goes a lot deeper than we might imagine. Here are the major crises we’re facing and what we can do about them.

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We have a growing plastic crisis

Pollution is a huge issue right now and plastics are one of the greatest contributors to that issue. Out of all the plastic we use, we use 50% once before throwing it away. This has led to billions of pounds of plastic floating in over 40% of the ocean’s surface. Green businesses are turning away from plastics, such as no longer using or selling plastic straws, or offering renewable materials for packaging. Changing how we consume could make a huge dent in the plastic pollution we produce.

We’re endangering our ecosystem

An estimated 150-200 species go extinct every 24 hours. We may not notice many of them, but almost everyone is noticing that bees are dying at an alarming rate. Bees have become the de-facto mascot of our growing biodiversity issue. As we encroach on the natural environment more and use pesticides and fertilizer, our native pollinators are some of the species at greatest risk. However, The Unfolding Earth highlights some examples of how you can create a safe haven for your own environment’s wildlife in your own garden.

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We’re poisoning our water

The use of pesticide and fertilizer impact not only the animals around us, but the water we drink, too. Furthermore, as WHQR shows, there are more and more reports surfacing about highly dangerous contaminants like GenX being found in our water supplies thanks to unregulated chemicals in industrial use. Besides limiting your own use of chemicals that can infiltrate our groundwater, you can make sure you and your family have safer water to drink and cook using reverse osmosis filters on your sinks.

We might even be making hurricanes worse

There is proof to suggest that Hurricanes Harvey and Irma were made worse thanks to our own impact on the water. Rising water levels and temperatures may have played a part in the devastation of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. A year later, these communities are still rebuilding thanks to the efforts of volunteers and local businesses like Cane Bay Partners starting initiatives to provide generators, clean drinking water, and more. While doing our part to reduce our use of the resources that play a hand in climate change, it’s important to donate what time and money we can to rebuild, too.

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Our forests keep shrinking

A major contributor to not only the shrinking biodiversity of our ecosystems but also climate change, deforestation continues to represent a growing threat to life on Earth as we know it. As One Green Planet shows, one of the efforts taken to combat this is volunteer vacations to rainforests around the world that include protecting endangered species and helping to study the impact of logging.

It might all seem like doom and gloom. Individually, we can only contribute a little towards decreasing the impact we’re making on the planet. However, by being informed, we can be more aware of the greater change we can affecting when it comes to how we vote towards environmentally-friendly policy.

 

Debt Survival Strategies: How To Stay Afloat When The Tide Turns

Debt Survival Strategies: How To Stay Afloat When The Tide Turns

Did you know that the average American owes more than $34,000? In some age groups, this figure rises to up to $134,000. If you’re in debt, you’re certainly not alone, but the statistics may not offer a great deal of comfort. Money worries are an incredibly common source of stress and anxiety, but there are practical solutions out there. Here are some debt survival strategies to help you stay afloat when the tide turns.

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Face up to reality

Many of us are guilty of ignoring statements, failing to check our balances and scanning or swiping a card without giving it a second thought. It’s very easy to lose track of spending and to chuck letters that come through the mail on a pile of unopened papers. It’s much more difficult to front up to the problem and face up to reality. Sadly, at some point, you’ll have to do this, and the sooner you take that first step, the better. It’s hugely beneficial to understand exactly what is going on with regards to your financial situation. Check all your statements, look at your accounts, and work out who you owe and how much debt you’re in.

Ask for help

If you were feeling ill, you probably wouldn’t hesitate to see a doctor. If you’ve got financial issues, there are experts out there that can help you. It may be embarrassing or nerve-wracking to sit down with a financial adviser, but remember that professionals see people like you day in, day out, and they are there to offer advice and guidance, rather than judgment. It’s highly likely that you will feel much better after talking about your situation and figuring out a strategy that will help you get back on the right track. It’s common to feel alone when you’re in debt, but there are always people there. You can see an independent adviser, contact a legal firm that offers cheap bankruptcy help or get in touch with charities that offer face to face or telephone consultations. Speaking to an expert can help to clarify your situation, and provide you with useful information about how you can move forward. Many people assume that there’s no way out when they can’t answer their phone, and they dread every knock at the door, but that simply isn’t the case.

Change your spending habits

Most of us get into debt because we spend more than we earn. In an age when a large proportion of people have access to credit cards, it’s easy to get used to living beyond your means. The Census Bureau estimates that more than 183 million Americans have a credit card. If you’re prone to overspending, there are some steps you can take to try and close the gap between your income and your outgoings. Start by budgeting. Work out exactly how much you can afford to spend per week or month, and stick to this figure. The next step is to take control. If you can’t resist the temptation to spend money, consider giving your cards to your partner or a relative and think about going to counseling. You could also explore options such as putting a cap on your daily spend on a debit card and reducing your credit card limit.

If you’re in debt, you may feel like there’s no way out, but hang on in there. Help is available, and there are strategies you can employ to keep your head above water.

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