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Experts in the field answer 4 questions men have regarding sperm health

Sperm health is not a common topic widely discussed among people, especially so for more conservative communities. But still, it’s an essential topic for men who take this seriously.

Do you know that the average sperm count for men has been on a worldwide downward trend based on the statistics from the World Health Organization?

According to Dr Ronny Tan, a consultant urologist and andrologist with Advanced Urology Associates, the criteria for normalcy is a sperm count of 15 million/millilitre. But the figures have dropped globally from a previous normal count of 20 million/millilitre in 1999.

Dr Janice Tung, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist with Thomson Fertility Centre, adds that this means that the chances of conceiving for men are about 20 per cent lower. Mayo Clinic shares that the issue is often shown through low sex drive or difficulty maintaining an erection.

Need help? Experts in the field answer four questions you might have regarding sperm health. Let’s take it from professionals from here.

#1: Boxers vs Briefs. Which is better?

Image Credits: AskMen

We bet you’ve heard advice regarding keeping it loose down there. Turns out to be, that family friend of yours might be right. Dr Tan points out that the testes are hanging in the scrotum for a good reason.

As such, boxers are believed to be sperm-friendlier than briefs. This is because the tighter your undergarment, the more it pushes the testes up towards the body. This increases the testicular temperature which you should avoid.

Ideally, the testes should be about 2 degrees Celsius lower than your average core body temperature of 36.9 degrees Celsius. Be mindful if you want to improve sperm production and maintain the health of the sperm.

“Elevated temperatures have been shown to lead to the arrest of sperm production, oxidative stress and DNA damage to sperm,” Dr Tung shares.

“I wouldn’t go as far as to advise men to go commando or go pant-less at home for this purpose. But they are welcomed to do so for other reasons of their own,” she wittily remarked.

With all that said, those who are diligently trying for a baby should look into their wardrobe and maybe make necessary style changes for this period. Yes, this also means having to give up that slim and sleek looking pants for a while.

#2: Is smoking, drinking, and mobile phone radiation exposure bad?

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Based on an analysis published on BMC Public Health in 2019, smokers were found to have lower sperm counts. The study also saw an increase in defective sperm heads, necks, and tails. If you’re actively looking to conceive, reconsider smoking.

Heavy drinkers who have 15 or more drinks a week should also be aware of the damages it has on sperm production. Healthline reveals that increased alcohol intake:

Causes early or decreased ejaculation
Shrinks the testes, which causes impotence
Changes the shape, size, and movement of healthy sperms
Alters gonadotropin release, which impacts sperm production

Mobile phones alongside obesity, and the use of testosterone or steroids for bodybuilding, were also cited by Dr Tung as factors associated with infertility. A 2014 study on the influence of direct mobile phone radiation on sperm quality also found an interconnection between radiation exposure, DNA–fragmentation level, and decreased sperm motility.

#3: Does cycling affect sperm health?

Image Credits: TODAYonline

Sitting on a bike seat for prolonged periods can lead to a temporary numb feeling down there. But it’s more than just a mere sensation. According to Dr Tan, the compression on the nerve in the Alcock’s canal can occasionally affect penile erections.

“Men who do long-distance cycling may experience numbness of the penis. Some men may also experience erectile dysfunction due to injury to the nerve and the blood vessels within the canal,” he adds.

This does not apply just to males who underwent intense cycling training but also to non-professional low-intensity cyclists. Dr Tung noted that to prevent sperm parameters from being suppressed, it’s probably wise to limit the duration and frequency of your cycling sessions. This is especially so if you’re trying to conceive.

But do not give up on exercising. This is because a BBC report shared that men who exercised 3 times a week for at least 30 minutes had better sperm health. If you frequently engage in contact sports such as football, hockey, rugby, or martial arts, please wear a scrotal guard.

#4: Should I keep to a particular diet?

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Dr Tung said that full-fat dairy products, coffee, and sugar-sweetened beverages are linked to poor semen quality and lower fertility rates. So keep those in check while grocery shopping or dining out.

As it’s most likely common sense for many, a healthy diet leads to a healthy body. Thus, take in more vegetables, fruits, fish, poultry, cereals, and low-fat dairy products instead. For supplements, Dr Tan recommends consuming selenium, zinc, L-carnitine, L-arginine, coenzyme Q10, and Vitamins A, C and E.

To end this off, Dr Chong Kian Tai, a consultant urologist at PanAsia Surgery, urges those who are worried about their scrotal health to make an appointment for in-depth tests. An ultrasound testes scan, hormone test, and/or semen analysis can provide answers to any physical discomfort, sperm health, or burning questions you have about your fertility.

A PR firm’s CEO shares 5 ways you can build trust as a leader at work

Striving at the workplace is not an easy task. Suppose you’re a leader, that makes the job two or three times harder. Maybe you’ve just been recently promoted, or you’ve been in a leadership position for a few years now and giving some serious thought about the art of leadership.

Whatever the case might be, Amy Stanton, the founder and CEO of Stanton & Company, shares that leadership isn’t a destination. It’s a never-ending learning process in which soft skills come into play.

“It’s really not about being seen as the person in charge, or dressing a certain way, or reminding the people around you that you’re the final decision-maker,” Stanton says.

Want to build trust as a leader at work? Take it from Stanton on five small ways you can start communicating with your colleagues from now on.

#1: Mean what you say

Image Credits: TLNT.com

No one would hate a compliment. But when “good job” becomes words you use anytime in every situation, then it loses its meaning.

While singing people’s praises is a good leadership trait, it’s not about doing it all day long. Communicate “negative” feedback appropriately if you want to be a helpful leader.

In other words, constructive feedback is the key to facilitate growth. Do it so your co-workers can grow through the experience. Also, as you find ways to provide feedback, take it as a chance to learn how to use this soft skill to build trust.

Need to find a balance when it comes to “negative” and positive reinforcement? Use the sandwich method to stack it in this way: positive – constructive – positive. Keep in mind to have honest talks that include actionable steps too.

“Remember: It’s one thing to critique. It’s another to give constructive feedback with a path to improvement,” Stanton states.

#2: Be true to yourself

Image Credits: HRM Asia

While you can look up to other leadership examples outside the workplace, be true to who you are. Don’t get us wrong because there is nothing wrong with observing different management styles in an attempt to incorporate new approaches or techniques.

But Stanton believes that you only become the best version of yourself as a leader when you are authentic to who you are. Trying to be someone or something you’re not will only show that you’re putting on an act.

Speak from the heart even if it means showing your fellow workers a vulnerable side of yourself. You’re not a superhero, and there’s no need to try to be one.

#3: Take accountability when things go wrong

man with a disapproving look at the office

Image Credits: BBC.com

Falling into a victim mindset when things take a wrong turn is a dangerous situation to allow yourself to be in. If you continually let yourself sink into the mentality that the hurdles you face happened because they were not within your control, it will only make matters worse in the long run.

We know taking responsibility even when it may not be your fault is not a simple step to take. But as a leader, you want to take accountability and also question the role you played in the issue. Could it be a lack of supervision? Or maybe you were too hung up on other projects to provide support to your team?

Be a leader people can trust and lead by example before you start pointing fingers at others.

#4: Rethink micromanagement

Image Credits: Business Insider

Ask any employee, and they will reveal how much they detest micromanaging superiors. Stanton also mentions how micromanaging people are rarely influential.

In your entire career, you would probably have come across a few micromanaging managers or maybe even struggling with one right now. There’s a thin fine line between aiming to be in control and obsessively controlling others.

If you want your subordinates to learn, allow them space to make mistakes. “Obviously, you want to put guardrails in place and make sure those mistakes happen in a controlled setting, but your goal is to get them to a place where they feel comfortable and confident operating on their own,” Stanton points out.

Don’t forget we’re talking about building trust here and it goes both ways. Give your colleagues the belief they need if you want a reciprocal work relationship.

And yes, you will require lots of patience to get to the endpoint (if there is even one). A tremendous amount of time and effort is necessary to guide your team members towards the right path. Not to mention that you have to be prep yourself to deal with their potential mistakes along the way.

But look far ahead instead of merely fixing your eyes on the short-term sacrifices.

#5: Reflect and seek feedback

Image Credits: iStock

Examine your relationship with your co-workers right now. Do you find them sharing direct feedback with you regularly, openly, and comfortably?

According to Stanton, the last thing you want is to revolve around only a vacuum of your thoughts. No matter how busy your schedule is, take time to hear other people’s perspectives because there’s more to gain than lose.

As a leader, you want to foster a nurturing environment where your employees or co-workers can honestly share how they feel knowing that they won’t be judged. Also, receive their suggestions and act on it rather than merely accepting it.

No one is born as a perfect leader. It takes ups and downs to get you where you want to be. Treat this leadership journey as a learning opportunity for you to mature as a person as well. Keep at it!

How To Settle In A New Job With Ease

Getting ready for your first day at work can mimic your experience on your first day in a new school. As butterflies roam your stomach, your first day in a new school is both terrifying and exciting. You walk in the grounds of an unfamiliar hallway with a schedule in hand. You try your best not to trip or to embarrass yourself in front of other kids. Years later, those similar emotions can be felt as you show up to a new workplace.

You do not know what expect! The first couple of months can be confusing, exciting, and terrifying. These months can make or break your time at a particular company. Start adjusting to a new job by preparing for your first day.

PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST DAY

Use the weeks leading up to your first day wisely by preparing yourself mentally and physically. Accomplish as many errands as possible such as medical checkups, car maintenance, and visits to relatives. Get adequate amount of sleep and renew your fitness regimen. If time permits, you may freshen up your mind by taking a short staycation.

Prepare for the position by researching about the company and its business press. You can search through its social media accounts to get a grasp of their branding. You can also request for a list of readings from your future boss. He or she will be impressed that you want to start work well-informed and educated.

MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION

Your first impression counts. Show up on your first day well-dressed and with enthusiasm to work. Come early and put your mobile phone away to stay focused on the tasks at hand. Take notes on the tasks and the people around. What are their names? It is important to write them down. You can learn a lot from these people.

ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS

It is easier to assume that we know what to do. Sometimes, we are just too afraid to admit that we cannot do something. However, asking for assistance is the best way to resolve an issue. You are in a new environment. Admitting your lack of knowledge in certain realms may show your eagerness to learn. Take notes.

DO NOT COMPARE THINGS TO YOUR PREVIOUS JOB

No matter how skilled you were in your previous company, it is unpleasant to brag about it in your current working environment. Instead, let your actions speak for itself. Take this opportunity to learn new things, to contribute new ideas, and to share your experience with your co-workers. Find the right platform to air your concerns.

LISTEN TO CULTURAL CLUES

To help you get a grasp of the company’s culture, listen and observe at all times. Building rapport with your new co-workers is important because it lets you assimilate to their culture faster. Be wary. Do not let your desire to fit in encourage you to engage in gossip. You do not want to employ socially destructive behaviors. Listen to cultural clues, but avoid gossips.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

You are the new employee. Smile and make the effort to reach out to them by offering coffee or lunch. This way, you will be able to break the ice.

Sources: 1 & 2

6 Essential Reasons Why You Should Learn To Invest

Investing is the act of allocating your money in the hopes that you will achieve a profit in the future. The money generated from your investments can provide income and fulfillment of long-term financial security.

Now is the ideal time to start investing! Allow me to convince you with these “6 Essential Reasons Why You Should Learn To Invest”.

#1: WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER

Many people do not think about investments until they are well into their 20s or 30s. Although opportunities to invest may come before that, investing is not something that is automatically embraced by all. Do not panic! You can become an investor at any age.

The sooner you open an investment account, the better it will be for your financial future. Take advantage of the greatest asset of all – time. Investing while you are young gives you the chance to work smarter. Would you rather save a considerable amount of money every year or save a huge amount of money later in life? Think about that.

#2: GET MORE EARNING POTENTIAL

Investing your money allows you to grow your wealth. Most investment vehicles such as stocks and bonds offer returns on your money over the long run. The return allows your money to build over time.

The money you build can be used to create a business or expand your existing one. Many investors support entrepreneurs and contribute to the creation of new products and new jobs. The more successful entities you have backed up, the stronger your returns will be.

#3: SAVE FOR RETIREMENT

Let us face it! You need to be prepared for your retirement. You should save money for retirement as you are working. You can put your retirement savings into a portfolio of diversified assets such as real estate, precious metals, stocks, mutual funds, and bonds. As soon as you retire, you will be able to live off from the funds that you have earned.

Base your personal tolerance of risk on your age and lifestyle. You may employ greater risks to increase your chances of earning greater wealth in your younger years. Becoming more conservative with your investments as you grow older can be wise.

#4: POWER OF COMPOUND INTEREST

Learning about investments will enable you to know the power of compound interest. Compound interest allows your money to make more money for you. It pays to invest early and often. The longer your money can benefit from the power of compound interest, the higher your gains will be as time goes by.

Say you invest S$1,000 this year and you earn a 10% return on that. This means that you will end up having S$1,100. If you do not contribute anything next year, you will still make money through the compound interest. Instead of earning another S$100, you will earn S$110 because you are getting 10% from a balance of S$1,100. You will have S$1,210 by the end of next year.

#5: DIVERSIFY YOUR ASSETS

You need to diversity your assets as your investments make one part of your financial picture – not all of it. You should not keep all your money in cash, in your house, or in your car. Instead, invest in a variety of categories to cushion unforeseen losses. It makes more financial sense to keep your emergency fund, your house (real estate), your hard assets (e.g., car), and your portfolio of investments.

#6: REACH YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS

Image credits: pixabay.com

Learning how to strategically invest your money allows you to reach your financial goals. If your money is earning a higher rate of return than your savings account, you will be able to earn more money within a faster period. This return on your investments can help you reach your financial goals such as buying a car, starting your own business, or putting your children through university.

Sources: 1 & 2

What’s an elevator pitch and how you can create one for your job search

Do you know what an elevator pitch is? Want to make a smart guess? As its name suggests, it has got to do with a pitch you can make if you were to meet a valuable contact in a lift ride.

According to the Cambridge dictionary, an elevator pitch is “a short but effective explanation that is intended to persuade someone to buy a product or accept an idea”. It could also be “a short description of a product or business idea, especially one given to a possible investor”.

With a rough idea of what an elevator pitch is, let’s zoom in on the steps on how to create one you can use in the context of a job search.

#1: Pen down one sentence

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you’re reading this while waiting in queue to get your daily takeout, you might want to type this down on your phone somewhere. For those who are sitting at your desk right now, reach out for a pen and paper. Then, write down just one sentence why you think you’re worthy of entering XYZ company.

This move will help you get started on revolving your elevator pitch on that one idea. In other words, it’s the crux of your talk. It should be confident, optimistic, showcases your strengths, and reveals how your previous experience can assist you to be a top achiever in the new position.

Here are some examples for your consideration:

I’m a sales executive with extensive retail experience of the kind this role requires.
As a CFO in three consulting firms, I bring substantial industry experience to this crucial role.
I have a strong track record in HR, and I believe my accomplishments will be an asset to your firm.

#2: Craft an opening

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Once the heart of your elevator pitch is ready, it’s time to move on to craft an opening. Ideally, one that is warm and has the potential to build rapport with the contact you’re speaking to.

Should you be using this opening pitch at an interview session, then your opening to your recruiter could be something like: “I’ve studied this position at your company, and I am excited by what I see.”

If you’re meeting an acquaintance who’s working in the same company you’ve applied to, and you’re thinking of gaining a tip or two, maybe you can try saying: “It’s nice to meet you here. I’m getting ready for an interview at your company and wondering if there is any advice you can give on how I can land the job I’ve applied in the HR department.”

#3: Get into the specifics

Image Credits: Freepik

By now, you should have your core message and an opening all written down. Great work! Now, moving on to the halfway mark. In this step, you will want to go into the specifics. By that, we mean the experience and successes you’ve had in your job positions.

To prove that you’re serious about contributing to the company because you’ve done similar tasks at your previous one, list it. Give a few concise reasons why you think you should get the contract.

Here are some for your reference:

My track record includes administering our benefits program.
It also involved designing and overseeing an employee satisfaction program.
Finally, I have led a team of 12, and we have surpassed all our targets.

Job seekers who have been through several jobs can still get into the details by chronologically listing down your achievements from one position to the next.

#4: Add a call to action

Image Credits: Only Simchas

Marketers would know this very well. A call to action (CTA) is a marketing strategy that involves using words or phrases to induce immediate actions from the target audience. This is crucial for job seekers because you’re now attempting to market yourself to your potential employer.

It’s not an easy task, either. Let’s say you happen to meet a useful contact who’s working in the same firm you’re planning to apply to. In this case, your CTA might be for that particular individual to provide you with a reference email or call to be made on your behalf.

For interviewees, your CTA after a seemingly pleasant conversation should be something like: “I love what I’ve heard, I’m looking forward to next steps, and I trust that you will be in touch soon. When can I expect to hear from you?”

#5: Customise according to situations

Image Credits: Freepik

So you’ve successfully created your personalised elevator speech. Now, it’s time to string them together and check for coherency. Be mindful that you can customise the different sections based on the situations you’re in.

Also, lest you think you have to deliver the entire script word for word, do not misunderstand. In a conversational context, especially an impromptu meeting, time may not necessarily be on your side. But having a written elevator pitch can provide you with a narrative thread at the back of mind for you to retrieve when the opportunity presents itself.

Play it by ear when the time calls for it!

#1: Boxers vs Briefs. Which is better?

#2: Is smoking, drinking, and mobile phone radiation exposure bad?

#3: Does cycling affect sperm health?

#4: Should I keep to a particular diet?

#1: Mean what you say

#2: Be true to yourself

#3: Take accountability when things go wrong

#4: Rethink micromanagement

#5: Reflect and seek feedback

#1: Pen down one sentence

#2: Craft an opening

#3: Get into the specifics

#4: Add a call to action

#5: Customise according to situations

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