Tools, Tips, and Treats for Living the VA Life [June 2019]

Whew! Is it just me or did June completely fly by?

No worries if you’re as busy as I am (summer camps! kids home from school! tending the garden! planning an epic family road trip, complete with playlist, for college tours and family visiting! #heisstillababy #icantbelievehes17), we’ve got the low down of all the tools and tips you might have missed this month!

Productivity Pick-Me-Ups

How to prevent and fight job burnout (DeskTime)

This article has some real-life tips for preventing or turning around burnout. Except for the nixing caffeine and alcohol. I mean, c’ mon. That cray.

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3 Productivity Tips for Daily Success (Scout in the City)

YES, YES, and YES to everything in this insightful post. If you’re not doing these three things, ask yourself why and get started today.

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The Guilt-Free Way to Take Time Off from Work (Zapier)

We know vacation and unplugging from work is important for our mental health. Plus, studies show it actually helps you be more productive when you are in the office. Here’s how to prep for time off so you can return without worrying about experiencing a meltdown when you open your untended inbox. #notthatiwouldknowanythingaboutthat

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Remote Work Revolution

How to Be Resilient in the Face of Harsh Criticism (Harvard Business Review)

Whether intentional or not, we’ve all been gobsmacked by a less-than-glowing and often-downright-insulting review or comment. There are some great tips here that are based on research on how to deal and move on—regardless of whether it’s a professional or personal criticism.

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4 Unconventional Ways to Get the Most Out of Monday Meetings (Influencive)

Not every Monday meeting happens on a Monday. Here are some smart tips for getting through meetings to speed them up and absorb what is being said.

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Create A Personal Resilience Plan: 3 Steps to Higher Performance And Happiness (Forbes)

I don’t know about you, but if I feel happy (or, happy-ish), I’m way more likely to perform better. This article on developing personal resilience provides tips that will help you stop self-sabotaging, be more mindful, and get some perspective.

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Marketing Mischief

Why Qualitative Market Research Belongs in Your Startup Toolkit—and How to Wield it Effectively (First Round Review)

We’re not talking just data, here. Learn what qualitative market research is and how to use it.

Still not convinced? “Good qualitative market research sparks insights and adds fuel to the creative fire.”

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Still Avoiding Online Reviews? 4 Tips to Use Them to Your Advantage (Entrepreneur)

I am in the majority—I check reviews more often than not before trying something new. Eighty-six percent of people do the same. Ignoring your business’s reviews (not just reviews, but any feedback) will only hurt your business. Listed here are some amazing tips for how to use your reviews as a goldmine and build on the momentum.

Social Media: Rocket Fuel for Experiential Events (The Next Scoop)

This post offer excellent ideas and instructions on how to use social media for events (not just experiential).

Superb timing, too, as I recently witnessed how Kansas City’s new mayor-elect won by utilizing social media. #hometowngirl

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Just For Fun

Not Too Little, Too Late: Unfinished Gaudí Basilica Gets Permit 137 Years Later (NPR)

This was already on my List of Amazing Places to visit; read up on the history AND it’s going to be completed in a few years!

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Boaty McBoatface, Internet-Adored Sub, Makes Deep-Sea Discovery On Climate Change (NPR)

Of course, it did. Nothing is as rad as Boaty McBoatface.

A Musical Prodigy? Sure, but Don’t Call Her ‘a New Mozart’ (New York Times)

This is the kind of stuff dreams are made of—kids in music and putting in the hard work. A source of inspiration no matter your age and what you’re trying to achieve.

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Catch you next month! Enjoy your kickoff to summer!