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How To Get The Most Out Of Your Pricey Laptop

The average lifespan of a laptop is between two to four years. Due to the many mishaps that can happen throughout the course of time, it is not uncommon for a machine to last for less than a year.

If you are not on-board with the idea of shelling out thousands to replace your laptop then, you must take certain precautions to maximize its lifespan. May the following tips help your circumstance.

LET ME FREEZE YOU

Unbeknownst to many, overheating is among the top reasons why laptops fail. Snuggling up in your bed with your trusty laptop as you watch your favorite movies sounds divine! However, your lap is not the best place to use this machine. Any soft or uneven surfaces can block the vents and restrict the airflow. It is recommended to work on a hard and smooth surface or to use a laptop support.

ADD MORE RAM

Random-access memory or RAM stores data and machine code that is currently being used. It works like your short-term or working memory. You can rely more on the system that pulls the data afresh from the hard drive once you upgrade your RAM. You see, reducing your hard drive activity reduces the power consumption. Other performance benefits will be quickly seen upon adding more RAM.

KEEP IT CLEAN

It comes as no surprise that a clean laptop will last longer than a filthy one. Unless you are working in a highly sanitized room, every laptop can come in contact with dust and dirt on a daily basis. Left to linger long enough, these unfriendly substances can suffocate the hardware of your laptop. Doing so will reduce its performance or contribute to a component’s premature demise.

UPGRADE TO SSD

Bid farewell to moving parts by switching to an SSD and using flash data memory to store your data. If possible, this upgrade will immediately make your laptop more energy efficient. Aside from its benefits surrounding your laptop’s battery life, an SSD can deliver a faster performance. Furthermore, it removes problems associated with fragmentation.

UPDATE YOUR SYSTEM REGULARLY

Whether you are a computer geek or not, it takes a few clicks of the mouse to update your operating software. Do not hesitate to update your current system once a notification comes up! Remember that no operating system or program is perfect. Hence, every upgrade includes new features and solutions to previous issues.

Aside from patching up some issues, keeping your software updated reduces the chances of security exploits. Maximize your security by regularly running anti-virus and anti-malware scanners. Less malware and junk supports a smooth running system.

SHIELD THE OUTSIDE

Modern technology has led to the introduction of smaller, thinner, and lighter laptops. This means that these machines are more susceptible to damage from spills and drops. Extend the life of your device by providing laptop covers and screen protectors. A tumble off your desk or a scratch against the wall can be shielded thru a powerful hard-shell or soft-shell case. Just ensure that your protection does not obstruct the laptop’s cooling system.

SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

Multitasking is a necessity in today’s revolving world. It may sounds nice, but running several programs at once puts a significant load on the processor. This further creates more power consumption. So, stretch your battery’s life and take care of your laptop by simplifying your activities.

As much as possible, stick to one application at a time. Close any additional programs when typing a document. For instance, I only use Notepad when writing a draft for my articles. How about for listening to music? Instead of streaming some tunes, you can use the locally stored songs. Streaming media over Wi-Fi uses the laptop’s wireless radio and other components. Less is more.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Budget-Friendly Ways To Emphasize Your Abs

It is possible to score the perfect beach belly without spending too much! Case in point, most of the items on this list are free of charge.

THE VITAL ELEMENT

Believe it or not, there is one thing that many novice and some trainers overlook when toning their abs – their diet. Diet plays a vital role in getting your desired look. For instance, you may increase your intake of food rich in omega-3 to trim the body’s excess belly fat. Omega-3 fatty acid in fish oils can cause your body to reduce the amount of fat it stores.

With a dollar, you can purchase a can of sardines at the nearby grocery.

THE UPHILL BATTLE

If you are up for a challenge then, running uphill in a relatively fast pace is an efficient way to burn fat. Hill sprints helps you conquer stubborn belly fat while you indulge in a natural setting. Combining the physical benefits of running and the mental benefits of being outdoors sounds like a win-win situation to me!

Singapore offers a wide array of diversity when it comes to its hills. You can go as low as 30 meters (above sea level) in Bukit Kalang or as high as 106 meters (above sea level) in Telok Blangah Hill.

THE QUICK FIX

Did you know that it only takes two seconds too make your belly look seemingly flatter? You read that right! Andrea Metcalf, author of the bestselling book Naked Fitness, suggests that you change your posture to suit your desired figure. Highlight your flat belly by dropping your tailbone and pulling your hip bones up. Instill this posture to your daily routine by practicing “the quick fix” while you are standing up or while you are stuck in a queue.

When you are walking, Andrea suggests to keep your tailbone slightly tucked under to remove the pressure from your lower back.

THE PROPER ENGAGEMENT

I am not referring to the perfect proposal, which includes a diamond ring and unsigned property documents! Instead, I am encouraging you to engage your abdominal muscles while you walk. To do this, imagine a magnet pulling your belly button backward toward your spine as you stride. Practice this tucking movement until you become comfortable with it.

Walking can help firm one’s abs. Share this benefit by inviting a chum as you enjoy a healthy stroll.

THE SUFFICIENT SHUT-EYE

Research has shown that insufficient sleep was associated with greater fat accumulation around the stomach region. Why is this so? For starters, your body produces more cortisol (i.e., a hormone that mediates various metabolic processes) when you do not get enough shut-eye. The increased production of cortisol can boost your appetite. Thus, you have a tendency to gain more fat as you overeat.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

It is recommended to have at least seven hours of rest. Having sufficient sleep can aid in maintaining your toned belly.

Sources: 1, 2, 3 & 4

Why It’s Better To Give Than To Receive

Evolutionary speaking, survival of the fittest reigns supreme. The competition used to be fierce! The strongest species live another day while, the weaklings die out. Let us fast-forward to the present time. Nowadays, sustainability is attained by sharing our resources. Why else would companies like Grab or Airbnb exist?

The act of giving is deeply wired within our moral compass. Not everyone is blessed with the same resources that we bathe in. This is something that we have to accept. I have to admit! It took me a long time to accept that I can use my resources to effectively help others.

At a young age, I questioned why we needed to give up our financial resources to benefit our relatives. With maturity and time, I realized the importance of detaching oneself from the materialistic views. The benefits of selfless acts contributes to a higher sense of wellbeing. That is what Aristotle knew all along!

On that note, here are some of the reasons why giving is seemingly better than receiving.

#1: HELPING THOSE IN NEED

Let us face it! The world we live in is far from perfect.

The interest rates are shooting up, the global economy is unstable, and the financial difficulties are experienced by many families. That is merely on the financial side. Shall I elaborate further on Singapore’s general challenges such as unemployment and teenage pregnancy? I suppose not. We are well aware of the pressing issues.

What we do with the above information shapes our character. A gesture as simple as donating your old clothes and books can go a long way! Giving a portion of what you have to those in desperate need helps alleviate the situation that they are in. That in itself is rewarding.

#2: THE NATURAL HIGH

Speaking of rewards, the act of giving elicits a type reward that is both intangible and powerful. I am referring to its physiological benefits. In a 2007 study, charitable contributions demonstrated pleasurable responses in the brain. Said responses were triggered by a surge of endorphins and dopamine.

As physiological responses are deeply rooted, its pleasurable consequences can last longer than the effects of purchasing a new outfit in Orchard Road.

#3: A BOOST IN EMPLOYEE MORALE

Ms. Molly St. Louis, a creative executive, once shared her insights on charity and employee morale. She once wrote this: “If a company chooses to make a corporate donation, workplace culture can improve with increased employee involvement and a positive general attitude.”

Participating in your company’s altruistic campaigns can make you feel like a part of a meaningful cause. On the other hand, employers may improve the group dynamics by offering volunteer opportunities for everyone.

#4: A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

Individuals, corporations, trustees, and partnerships that are carrying on profession, trade, or business in Singapore are chargeable with tax. Reduce the payable amount by listing down your tax deductables. You may qualify for several tax deductables including the “donations” category.

Being generous may help you reap double tax deductions (i.e., twice the amount of the donation). Eligible donations exist in these forms:

a. Cash Donations
b. Shares Donations
c. Computer Donations
d. Artefact Donations
e. Public Art Tax Incentive Scheme
f. Land and Building Donations

For instance, you may donate a priceless artwork to the Singapore museums that have obtained the Approved Museum Status with the National Heritage Board.

#5: PROMOTING SELFLESS ACTS

As an educator to young minds, I know how important it is to promote positive behaviors. Mimicing is the basic learning model that children follow. When your child sees your selfless acts, it is more likely that he or she adopts an altruistic mindset.

I speak from my personal experience. As a child, I was exposed to this mindset as my grandparents were frequent volunteers of the Red Cross. As a teenager, I hosted my 13th birthday at a humble orphanage. Last Christmas, we had a chance to share our blessings to the intellectually disabled youth. It goes without saying that I will pass on this mindset to my future children.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

As for you, you may take small steps first. Start by allowing your child to donate your loose change to charitable institutions. It is common to see adolescents with “donation cans” roaming at the Orchard Road or in the train stations. You may consider donating to them too.

Sources: 1 & 2

Tips On Balancing 2 Jobs While Maintaining Sanity

In Singapore, it is not uncommon to hold two or more jobs. You may quickly browse thru your social media profiles to observe how some people seem to do it all. What you do not see behind the lenses is its challenging nature. It is difficult to balance several fulfilling commitments while maintaining your sanity!

On that note, here are some sensible tips that may help:

#1: ACCEPTANCE

Whatever career path you may take, your mindset echoes the way you act and feel. Start by accepting that you will acquire multiple jobs to cover your needs. Realize that the compact schedule will be a norm for you for the next couple of months or years.

#2: ORGANIZATION

Foresee how the upcoming weeks will pan out by having an organized planner. List down the priorities, tasks, or assignments that you need to accomplish next week. Distribute the week’s load as evenly as possible. Keep track of important appointments as well! Then, make smart decisions about social gatherings based on your schedule.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#3: SELF-CARE

Are you coughing intensely during your second shift? A healthy well-being is essential to juggle multiple jobs in a day. Self-care boils down to the basic needs: quality sleep and balanced diet. Combining these two with regular exercise and social support will help you reach your goal without experiencing burnout.

#4: AVOIDANCE

Transparency is a precautionary factor to avoid “conflict of interest” and other issues. If you are thinking of mainting two or more position for a long period of time, keep the communication lines open. Your primary employer must be aware that you are committing yourself to a second job.

#5: RELAX

Many people choose to block a day off during the week to replenish their strength. While we may not have the luxury of blocking an entire day, we can settle for a break of several hours. Take your mind on a pleasant ride by doing the activities that surround your passion/s.

#6: FOCUS

Focus on the task at hand! Completely surrendering yourself to one tasks enables you to accomplish it faster. Work at a conducive space that eliminates distractions, ignites relaxing music, and inspires you to think.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#7: END GOAL

Let us face it! You are not exhausting your physical and mental efforts for nothing. You are accepting these multiple jobs with an end goal in mind. Hold that goal dear to your heart and never lose sight of it.

Sources: 1 &2

Makeup Addict’s Guide To Saving More Money

From all walks of life, makeup addicts are not afraid to widen their collection of beauty products. Fortunately, you do not have to spend too much to feel like a million bucks! Save money by employing these simple hacks below.

#1: EXPERIMENT WITH COLORS AND SHADES

Play the role of a beauty scientist without having to wear a lab gown by mixing your cosmetics. A YouTuber named Safiya Nyagaard explored the possibilities of fusing her nude lipsticks and her eye shadow palettes. It resulted to her favorite product – the Franken lipstick.

Without spending a cent on additional colors, you can achieve your dream products! Mix or melt a couple of your lipstick, eye shadow, and foundation together to create a new look. This will come in handy when you buy a product that you regret. For instance, I bought a “hot pink” lipstick recently. I bought it mainly due to its organic formulation. To make it more wearable, I layer it with a pinkish nude shade.

#2: USE YOUR BRUSH, NOT YOUR FINGERS

There is a reason why makeup artists have distinct brushes for specific purposes! For starters, using a brush allows you to precisely apply the product where you intend it to be. Furthermore, using fingers primarily may result to wastage of the product.

I have to admit that I am one of those people who find it easier to apply foundation using my fingers. I seem to control the blending better using this technique. However, I frequently have to wipe off a pea-sized amount with tissue. The seemingly small amounts add up!

#3: GIVE DRUGSTORE BRANDS A CHANCE

It is tempting to purchase the latest products available at Sephora, especially if you have a loyalty card. Constantly searching for high-end products can lead to overlooking the drugstore counterparts and its potential savings. Give drugstore products a fair chance!

A true makeup addict knows that the drugstore brands are stepping up their game as they launch quality collections with competitive formulas. You may notice that some drugstore brands collaborate with famous celebrities. Take a look at the neutral capsule created by Gigi Hadid for Maybelline.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Maybelline along with Wet n Wild, Essence, and L’oreal are some of the best drugstore brands out there. Do not be afraid to explore cheaper dupes of your favorite high-end products!

Sources: 1 & 2

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