Could Your Career Be The Answer To Boosting Your Finances?

Do you feel trapped by your current income? You won’t be alone. More than 50% of families wish they had more spare income to pay towards things like holidays or extra luxuries in life. But with a fixed income, is there really anything else you can do? The truth is, your career or choice of job could be the answer all along, it would certainly help you to consider all of the options you have in front of you. I thought I would share with you some of the things you could consider to help boost your income and hopefully give you that extra disposable change you desire.

Image source

Ask for a pay rise

Say you are happy with your job. Perhaps you have been doing it for some time, and never had any issues, then maybe one of the first things you could consider doing would be to ask for a pay rise. Of course, you may need to consider your case when it comes to asking for a pay rise. Perhaps expressing how much work you have been doing, and how well you are doing in your current role. You can only ask.

Look for a promotion

Maybe you want to move on further up the career ladder, and so perhaps it could be that you want to look at promotion opportunities. You could take some time to sit with your manager and ask about your future with the business and what career path or journey you could be taking. Actively looking for a promotion and seeing what is available could provide you with some excellent opportunities to increase your earnings.

Change your career

Maybe you don’t enjoy your current career anymore, but perhaps feel trapped. You could consider changing your career at anytime, and often training in your spare time and gaining qualifications means that you don’t need to lose out. Whether it is something like a doctor of nursing degree, a career change focusing on something you are interested in or passionate about, or maybe just something different. The choice is yours to make.

Work freelance or for yourself

Maybe your option could be working for yourself, and this could be a great way to move into something different. Perhaps you could use the skills you already have, maybe from your current job but perhaps working for yourself could drastically improve the amount you earn and your lifestyle.

Take that plunge and start a business

Finally, maybe the option you have would be to take that plunge and start your own business. It might be something you have been working on for some time, or it could be that you have an idea that you just can’t get out of your head. Whatever it is, pursuing it might feel scary, but it could be the best decision you make.

I hope that this has given you something to think about when it comes to using your career and job as a way of boosting your finances.

What's New With Us For July 8, 2018

How is your summer going? 

I got some rhubarb from a neighbour yesterday- she doesnt use it, and got Gerry to dig some roots up to plant some of my own , and as well some stalks to make him some rhubarb crisp.

Gerry had to cut out a big mass of our trees yesterday after I noticed some black knots on them and a had a few readers point out to me what it was. Leaves an empty spot now where he had to cut that all out but, at least now we hope they will come back healthy.

Ordered my iron dextrin ( $330 and had to pre-pay! ) , from pharmacy, and will have to go for another infusion once that comes in. It's been almost a full 2 years Gerry said since my last one, and the one before that was a yearly, so I did not too bad I guess being able to go nearly 2 years this time. I can't absorb iron and am at the point again where it has dropped quite alot and I am feeling quite lethargic again.

Gerry put up my backsplash today in the RV. The mirror was starting to show its age along the bottom, but as well, everytime we were washing our hands there was overspray on the mirror, so hopefully now with the backsplash I got at Walmart, this will solve both of those issues.

We have a few things that need looking after in the RV- also waiting on the new windows that have to be replaced in it, do some more painting, fixing the back up camera, etc.

Gerry has starting re-building our side fence, and the neighbour who shares the fence with us has also chipped in for half of it. This 15 foot section was $180. 

We had a big storm here the other night that started about 3 am. Trees down all over, power out. We did okay though. We had a few of the neighbor's tree branches in our front yard, and lost power for about 5 hours through the night. Most people that lived out at the lake had more of the same issues but on a bigger scale.

We have a daughter coming to stay with us soon for a few weeks and another, later in August. Since the two of them are planning a trip to see their dad in August, Gerry and I may just get away ourselves. A Summer getaway would be nice.

Hoping your all having a good one- 

Happy Independence Day To Our USA Neighbours!

Despite what has been happening between the USA and Canada with the US president and the Prime Minister, we still would like to wish our neighbours a Happy 4th of July.

We ourselves work with companies in the USA and we live there for half the year, every year, despite the lower dollar for us. We love the USA- the people, the sights and the sun we travel to every winter.

From our home to yours- Happy 4th of July- Independence Day!

How To Ensure You Save Money Wherever Possible

POST REMOVED

Happy Canada Day !

Happy Canada Day everyone! Think it's time for a bit of an update with news for us.
What's everyone up to today for Canada Day? We're just sticking close to home. Didn't even watch the fireworks last night. Such homebodies -LOL

Had my crown fall out on me for the second time- the one I had done in Mexico but dentist here didnt think it any fault of the dentist there. It did look like a piece of the old tooth may have broke inside the crown, causing it to loosen up, then break off. Either way, I had to get a check up, xrays and then it re-glued here, so that cost me $142. 

Had a pro-active test the other day for Hep C- and I don't think I have it but was more of a preventive blood test as they recommend it. People born from 1945–1965, sometimes referred to as baby boomers, are 5 times more likely to have hepatitis C.

Also had a foot xray- have had a bunion for years which I think may have been caused by an old foot injury so just wanted to have it re-evaluated. Nice that we have the free tests in Canada. Looks too like I am getting all set here to have an iron infusion. Usually have gone to the city to get them done but will be more convenient to have done here. Unfortunately I have to pay for the medication they will be using for it, and may set me back a few hundred dollars, but is a tax deduction too so I can look at that side of it. I havent been able to absorb iron for years, so have had to get those darn infusions as I cant take any of the medications orally. Too many issues with my stomach.

Also told I have high cholestral- which I am sure is an age related thing as I totally should not have it. Will see about some diet changes though and see anyhow how that goes. Do not want to take any medication.

Gerry had his thyroid re-ultrasounded here, after being said in the USA he had a growth or multiple growths. Despite the fact that he does have them, they are non harmful  ones he was told.

Added up our expenses for groceries and food for the dog, for June and it was quite high- $993! Definately the highest its been all year. With our daughter coming here to stay in July and August though I won't be keeping a tally, but we did see that we are paying at least $200-$300 more in Canada on groceries than we were when in the USA, even with the exchange. 

Gerry picked up some tin the other day at the dump so will be able to re-sheet his old shed with it which will help protect the wood on it, then paint over that once its up. Always bringing something from the dump he can use around the yard or shop! Once man's junk you know!

He's been working on the RV too- doing some upgrades, painting, etc.. I sure miss traveling and will be nice to get back on the road in the Fall. ( In the meantime reading about everyone else's travel adventures on Facebook camping groups.) RV is in a state of shock right now... sanding down alot of the wood and restaining assome he did before didnt stick because of the surface, so had to be all sanded down to bare wood now.

Gerry had gotten a job as a supervisor doing lawn cutting for businesses, graveyards, and homes, for the summer, but was doing more work than supervisoring. Gone mostly all day too and working hard. We talked about it, he was going to quit but his boss really wanted him around still and would work out what worked for him, so now he's working only mornings and will have the time to spend with us. Also has work that needs to be done at home before we leave in the Fall and told him he doesnt want to be time crunched with that when the time does come . As well, he has take a full week off to spend time with the girls when they will both be home this summer. One is staying with us 6 weeks but he took a full week off when they will both be here together as well.

On another note- only found .11 in change for the month of June so will carry that over to July.

So hoping everyone is enjoying their summer so far and we'll talk to you again soon!

4 Tips to Help Your Business Prepare for Hurricane Season

Hurricanes can have devastating effects. Taking steps to mitigate human, financial and operational risk before a disaster can enable businesses to sustain themselves during the event and while recovering from the impact. A weather monitoring system helps you prepare for severe weather by delivering accurate forecasts and real-time information for effective decision-making.

1.      Conduct a Risk Assessment

Assets at risk from hazards during a major storm range from potential staff injuries to the destruction of data. Evaluate the interior and exterior of the facility, noting possible environmental impact scenarios. Weaknesses may include trees near power lines or windows and potential exposure to hazardous materials.

2.      Establish an Emergency Action Plan

Put a plan in place that provides direction on a variety of critical business operations, from evacuation routes and procedures to backing up company records and individual employee duties. A comprehensive plan includes methods for reporting emergencies and communicating with specific authorities and managers.

3.      Know Your Resources

In the event of a catastrophe, many business owners do not know who to contact. Advanced preparation of a contact list in case of fire, flood or other potential disasters can help expedite evaluation and cleanup processes, allowing operations to get back to normal quickly.

4.      Have a Business Continuity Plan

Identify the systems and processes that must be available to keep the organization functioning and the best methods for maintaining them. Businesses that back up their data periodically to an off-site server are less likely to be devastated if a catastrophic event occurs.

Mitigate Risk

Preparation is an on-going process. Plans should be revisited on an annual or semi-annual basis and modified to match operational and business changes. Disaster recovery services can mitigate the financial and operational risk that results from natural and manmade events that disrupt normal business operations. Visit EarthNetworks.com for solutions and tools that enable you to prepare for the worst-case scenario.

Perfect Flooring Options to Express Your Creativity

Image Source

Did you know that you can turn your floors into works of art? All that you need are some basic flooring materials from flooring the colony tx, as well as some creativity. The floor suggestions below, all courtesy of Wraps Studio, is designed to hold up quite well. They also bring a little personality to each room. Just think outside of the box and don’t be afraid to create floors that are a bit unusual, yet perfect for each room.

Distressed Flooring

If you’re a big fan of beach-inspired design or shabby chic, then this distressed flooring will work in your home. It all starts with traditional wooden planks that are then hand distressed with wire brushes in order to scrape off some of the paint. Cover the finished weathered look with some cured UV oil in order to seal in the finish.

Choose Stone Instead of Tiles

Did you know that you can install stone into your floors? Start with grout and a number of small, smooth, polished stones. Pebbles work great, just make sure that they’re polished, or they’ll be uncomfortable to walk on while barefoot. Lay the stones in the grout in the pattern that you want, and then wait for the grout to dry. You should then place another layer of grout around them to finish off the installation, just as you would with regular tiles. If you need some suggestions, this works great in bathrooms and mudrooms.

Image Source

 Stain Your Concrete

On their own, concrete floors look plain and sterile. They even look cold. It’s due to the nature of the plain concrete. However, you can change this around with a staining method. Start with a polished concrete floor and then add whichever color of stain that you choose. Follow the instructions on the label in order to produce just the right finish. Your concrete floor won’t look quite so boring anymore.

Go With Foam Floors That Actually Look Like Wood

Although foam flooring from flooring the colony tx won’t last nearly as long as real wood, it does make for a comfortable surface to lounge and walk on. Even better, this foam flooring is easy to install on your own. You won’t have to hire a professional. This makes it less expensive than other types of flooring. Just be prepared to replace it when it gets damaged, since you won’t be able to repair every issue that occurs with the foam.

Stencil Your Floors

Stenciling is a great way to add some pizzazz to your living space. Start with plain tile or wood floors. Prep them for painting, purchase your stencils, painters tape, the paint, and some finishing solution, and then get to work. The finishing solution (usually this comes in a spray can) will keep everything in place once you’re done with your masterpiece.

Now that you have some ideas, thanks to Wraps Studio, it’s time to get out there and start creating the floors of your dreams.

The New Umbrella Beats The Cost of a Pergola

Wanting to get some of the sun off the deck when we are spending time sitting outdoors for a bit, we thought of a pergola but they are very high in price- well, more than what we wanted to spend.

Our local hardware store had a 10' spread umbrella that worked so much better on sale for $100!

Your Opinion Counts

I was looking back on some old posts and saw I did  "Your Opinion Counts" posts in the past, to compliment, complain and just plain ole share my opinion about products with companies, as well as request coupons from them.
Well, I'd like to bring that back again.

So today I chose 3 products that I called companies about today:

Jif peanut butter-We picked this peanut butter up while in the US. Called and made comments and asked for coupons- so will be getting free product coupons and other coupons from Smuckers Co. ( Please note this was from US company)

Nestle ice cream- No longer sends out coupons but have available different coupons on their web site @ Nestle

Robin Hood flour- No coupons to send out but they are sending some recipes out for me and said their coupons are from time to time on Save.ca.

Also be sure to get your FREE cookie when getting your Subway order.  Take the 1 minute survey after you do get home @ TellSubway.com.
I was told today at our local Subway that I MAY be one of the only ones that brings my code back in for a FREE cookie!


** Update on post.. I was told by a few places already they no longer are sending out coupons and work with alot of online companies for printing coupons out so I guess unless I have a problem with a product, I wont be calling them.

Here is Everything You’ll Need to Start Your Own Business

Starting a business is an exciting process, but it's not something that should be taken lightly. When starting your own business, there is a lot of planning to be done and many forms to fill if you intend to go about it correctly. So much so that it's easy to get overwhelmed by just how many options you have, but with the right information, you can get your business off to a strong start.

The first thing you need to start your own business is a business plan. This is an intimidating task for most people to get involved in, but all you really need at this moment is a piece of paper that answers the who, what, when, how, and why of your business plan. In other words, who is going to be a part of your business?

#1 The Who

If it's just going to be you, you'll probably opt for a single-member LLC (see the LLC forms) or even a sole proprietorship, the latter of which requires no special registration whatsoever. Rather, at the end of the year, you'll just report your business related income or loss as self-employment income. A single member LLC may function similarly as it will be disregarded as a pass-through entity. That's a fancy way of saying you'll report the business income as self-employment income as well in the same way you would income that results from a sole proprietorship.

If you are going to have other people in this business with you or if you are going to have employees, it is worth looking into other structures. You can have a multi-member LLC, for instance, or a corporation. In any case, with multiple people and/or employees involved with your business, you will probably want to apply for an EIN using a tax ID form, which will mean your business gets its own SSN of sorts, allowing you to separate your personal credit and finances from the business.

#2 The What

The next step in starting your business is figuring out the what. In other words, what will you be selling or what service will you be offering? What sets you apart from your competitors? When thinking about this question, you are really seeking to ask: What is going to make your business money?

You might be offering a service, selling a product, or a combination of the two. You might also be acting as an affiliate, promoting someone else's service. Think about what is going to make your business money, and then continue on with your plan.

#3 The When

Figuring out the when of your business can be effected by many different things. If it's a seasonal product or service, you probably want to enter when the market is strong. Likewise, if you are struggling to handle your finances right now, it might be best to wait to start your business at a time when you have a  bit more disposable income to cover the expenses that go along with forming a business.

Figuring out when the timing is right for your new business is really going to depend on a lot of different things.

 #4 The Why

Why do you want to start a business? This is a question that most people will simply answer with "money" but it should really go far beyond that. Do you want to offer something that no one else is? Do you want to improve upon your competitor's way of doing business? Figure out a viable why that will inspire you to keep working hard in your business from this day forward, because it really is a full-time job and then some.

You have to be fully invested in your business and the idea behind it. And, more importantly, your customers have to have a reason for choosing your business too, and that's when you need to ask: Why will customers want to do business with me? Maybe you have better service or better offerings than your competitors. Above all, seek to offer more value rather than a lower price as that's the only sustainable way to long term success.

#5 The How

The how is going to bring together all of the above in an easy to follow plan that you can put into action. How are you going to make money? You have the who, the what, the when, and the why, now you just need to make a process that you can begin following to get you customers and ultimately begin generating profits.

With this plan drawn up, it's time to begin getting the legal processes moving along as that's definitely one of the more difficult and time consuming parts of launching your business. Gov Doc Filing can help you get started with it right away so that you can put your business plan into action.