Making money moves

 

 

                What is a money move? It’s about getting paid; now how do you get it? Well, sometimes you have to take a leap of faith and jump off that cliff. When you see people being and having what you want, don’t envy them (Jamaicans call it badmind) for they took that parachute and headed towards the door, while the plane was still in the air. Now for some, the parachute trip was not a smooth flight path. Many hit bumps and rocks but eventually, they make it down from the sky to tell their story about financial success. Here are some ideas towards making the money move:

1.     Create informational products and sell it on line. Providing people with detailed steps on how to do something for what they need will pay you.

2.     Purchase rental property. Whether it’s a two flat or a complex, people need to place to live. Entrepreneurs solve problems.

3.     Try affiliate marketing. How affiliates work is that a company will give you commission whenever you provide a sale for their product. It can be as easy as placing a link on your website. Not bad, if you can anticipate the customer’s needs.

4.     Earn income from stocks. All you have to do is own a piece of company and stocks can be bought as cheaply as $5.

Walking into your destiny

 

Look into the mirror and say “I am beautiful and deserve the universe’s blessings”. Believe it and it will be so. Yes, if no one else says it, you say it and believe this. Self-love is so important. Why? Because loving your self allows the impossible to become possible.

                Unemployed or in a stagnant job, self-love will lead you to keep trying new, innovative ideas. Usain Bolt is the fastest human because he loved himself enough to stay away from drugs, remain in the gym to develop his muscles and practice on the track perfecting his technique. Self-love waters the soul and creates harmony.

                Musicians’ understand the impact of vibrations, melody and harmony. Bob Marley’s self-love told him that good things do come out of Trench Town. Bob sang about his experiences, making the best out of his surroundings. Some of Marley’s lyrics explored the depths of the human condition, which resonated with others worldwide.

                The only way to walk into your destiny is to take one step at a time. In Malcolm Gladwell’s book the Outlier, he stated that a minimum of 10,000 hours is required for anyone to reach the zenith of the objective, so don’t worry if your dreams and goals are taking a while. Whatever is supposed to be for you, Karma will bring it to you. Now deep breathe, and breathe and breathe.

Know your worth

 

So you want to be an entrepreneur. Great! What does that entail? This word is getting more popular each day, so let’s analyze if this venture is for you. Are you willing to market yourself to the public? The brand that is being promoted has to appeal to someone but not everyone. This is your niche audience. For example, Jamaicans living in the diaspora may be hit with a sense of nostalgia for homemade meal. How can you fulfil that craving? This can be done my making them aware of your product.

Step one is awareness. How to get their attention? One way is social media. This is a must for 1st world countries. Long before they step into your restaurant, they will check out your website, yelp comments and other online features.  Add content on your website to create value. Use key words in your brand name and place targeted hashtags on your social media.

Step two is to create trust. I.e. when you go to a restaurant, you are expecting a quality product. By providing excellent food, you build a positive relationship with you and the customer. This becomes a nurturing atmosphere where friends and family will want to patronize.

Step three is to create an incentive. For instance, providing a free side dish will entice them to choose your establishment over the competition. Some owners don’t see the value for giving away anything but remember, the more you give is the more you get. Put others 1^st and your needs 2^nd. Making money is the product of adding value and establishing rapport.

If you can make the public aware, create trust and create incentives, you can begin the entrepreneurial journey. Just remember to be creative and unique. Always value yourself and know your worth. Finally, never settle for what you don’t want.

Side Gigs

 

Generation y and z will not experience what the baby boomers had in terms of employment. Todays millennial will move from job to job every 3-4 years. The work model will trend towards gigs. What is a gig? It is means having paid work, but temporarily. To remain viable in the gig economy, have the follow:

1.     An ability to receive payment using pay pal, cash app, venom and zellepay. We are moving into a cashless world and these are the popular ones to consider.

2.     Have a social media presence. This is good for your brand and potential employers. Linkedin is where many recruiters go to see your portfolio. Social media is used to create content. If you are an artist, this is an invaluable tool.

Some of the most popular gig web sites are:

·                   Dolly.com - here you can hire someone help in moving or offer the public your ability to move items.

·                    Hellotech.com- here you can hire some to help in with a tech problem.

·                   Flex.Amazon.com – here you can become an independent currier for Amazon.

·                   Udemy.com- here you can teach or be taught a particular skill.

Benefits of soursop

 

Soursop is a member of the family of fruits known as custard apples. Soursop is often called pawpaw, but shouldn’t be confused with its cousin known as pawpaw that managed to adapt and survive in northern climates. Jamaican soursop is green, has white flesh, can weigh up to 10 pounds, and the skin is covered in blunt spines. Visually, it’s been described as resembling a pine cone, with the flavor likened to a cross between a pineapple and a mango. Seeds are extremely toxic. Individuals that do eat soursop should limit their intake to ½ a cup a few days per week as it’s highly potent. Soursop is used within the perfume industry, and is popular for use in milkshakes, smoothies and a variety of chilled beverages. Practitioners of folk medicine and homeopathic methods have used it for centuries as a sedative and to address maladies ranging from parasitic infections and fever to inflammation.

The following are 12 benefits of soursop.

1. Soursop is used within the food industry for making candy, ice cream, jams and jellies, and yogurt, along with syrups, frozen and alcoholic beverages and canning purposes.

2. The fruit is rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals that cause the signs of aging.

3. For those that want to boost their immune system, the fruit is rich in vitamin C.

4. Soursop contains considerable fiber that makes people feel fuller longer for weight loss concerns and promotes digestive health.

5. The potassium in soursop aids the body in ridding excess sodium that can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease.

6. Soursop contains 12 essential vitamins and trace minerals the body requires to function properly.

7. One soursop contains 413 calories, 105 carbohydrates, 85 grams of sugar, 6 grams of protein, 2 grams of fat, and 21 grams of fiber.

8. Soursop contains natural analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It’s beneficial for addressing gingivitis, yeast infections, pain, and to accelerate wound healing.

9. It was once used to determine color parameters in camera film.

 

10. Soursop is high in magnesium and calcium for maintaining healthy bones.

 

11. It contains riboflavin and vitamin C to assist in good vision and protects against night blindness and macular degeneration.

 

12. Soursop leaves and seeds are a component in modern compounds for treating head lice, bedbugs and other insects.

7 ways to make money online

 

It is estimated that 70% of university grads leave Jamaica because of the limited employment opportunities available on the island. Creating online opportunities is a valid option and one way to stay in Jamaica instead of becoming a diasporian. The net allows you to make a living, while enjoying the sun and sand on the “rock”. Also, in this era it is best to have multiple streams of revenue. Having an income from just one source is not a good idea, especially if other family members are relying on you. Obtaining a smart phone, access to the internet and the use of a computer gives you choices. Here are some ways to make money online:

1.       E-Commerce – selling a physical product. Some examples are selling on Amazon or Shopify

2.    Drop shipping – working with wholesalers and distribution to move product

3.   Affiliate Marketing- attach a company’s link to your website, blog or social media and you get commission

4.   Software Business aka SAS –create active campaigns, go to meeting; create software that solves the needs of the market.

5.  Google Ad Sense- Ad program that allows you to run Ads on your website, blog or You Tube channel.

6.  Expert Business – packaging your expert skill i.e. creation of teachable class, Udemy, online classes, training program, digital marketer anything to enhance people’s life.

7.  Become a professional You Tuber. All you need to do is create something that a particular niche would benefit. In other words, “What’s in it for me and why am I giving you 10 minutes of my viewing time?” Some examples of successful Jamaican You Tubers are Mouta Massi, JaRadio TV and kevin2wokrayzee. Each of their presentations of Jamaican culture is unique and that is why their channels are so popular.

Focus on your niche

 

Finding the place where you fit in and feel successful benefits you as well as your potential audience.  This is why having a focus on your content and brand is very powerful. Who you are providing a product or service determines your niche. Because so many things comprise your unique personality, certain factors will have to be taken into consideration to captivate your audience. There is no such thing as one size fits all.

Who is my audience? This is the most practical thing you must consider in your entrepreneur journey. What is your purpose? It must align with practically to avoid burn out. By taking things in bit size chucks, you won’t feel overwhelmed. As the saying goes “How do you eat an elephant? You take one bite at a time.” Consider what are you trying to achieve and its time frame. Practically means revenue. In other words, is the startup cost realistic? Can I do this business online or do I need a storefront?  We live in the internet era, so be sure to open the following accounts in order to get paid in a timely manner: Paypal, Stripe, Venmo, Cash App.

Consent

 

We live in a fast passed world and because of that, we often give more to others than to ourselves. How long can that work without burning out? When you are burnt out, what is left for you? Stop doing that because life is too short. Savor moments and create memories. The best way to do that is to create options. Here are some easy steps to take:

1.       Give yourself permission to ask for help. Remember the only bad question is the one you did not ask out of pride and fear.

2.       Give yourself permission to say no. This creates boundaries in order to save your energy for what you really want to do.

3.       Give yourself permission to set the bar high.  However, it is ok that you don’t complete the intended task. As the saying goes: if you reach for the stars and if you don’t get them, at least got to the sky. Doing your best is what counts.

4.       Give yourself permission to take a chance. Yes, believe in yourself and don’t ever listen to someone else who tells you that you can’t. Ask yourself why are they telling you not to do it? Is it because your success means they now have to evaluate themselves. You can hear advice but always listen to your voice.

The health benefits of guava

 

Guava is a sweet and juicy tropical fruit grown abundantly throughout the Caribbean. It’s typically enjoyed on its own, juiced, and in desserts, and is sold fresh, frozen, canned, and in the form of guava paste or jam. This mouthwatering fruit has skin ranging in color from yellow to green with sweet pink flesh and a soft center full of easy-to-scoop-out seeds. With vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and more, guava is an excellent food to include in your diet. Read on to learn about the health benefits of guava.

1. Guava helps with weight loss

Filling guava satisfies sugar cravings and has no cholesterol, a high ratio of fiber to sugar, and even a little protein (1.5 grams per serving). It’s the perfect energy-boosting snack for those trying to lose weight.

2. It’s a good choice for diabetics

The high ratio of fiber to sugar means that guava is a great choice for diabetics. The fiber slows down sugar absorption, reducing the chance of an insulin spike.

3. It improves vision

Guavas have a high vitamin A content, which is important for healthy eyes and vision. Vitamin A helps to ward off cataracts, macular degeneration, and age related vision changes.

4. It helps prevent cancer

Antioxidants in guava help prevent the development of cancer. Specifically, gauva is a good source of the antioxidant lycopene which is shown to greatly decrease prostate tumors, and also may prevent breast cancer. Guava leaf oil is said to be able to greatly diminish malignant growth even better than present day prescriptions.

5. It boosts the immune system and wards off scurvy

Guava has 5 times as much vitamin C per serving as oranges! Vitamin C is important for the immune system and helps the body fight off a wide range of bacterial and viral diseases. Scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, can be prevented or easily cured with guava.

6. It’s good for digestive health

Naturally occurring astringents in guava have antibacterial and disinfectant properties. They help keep digestive bacteria in check to prevent and treat gastroenteritis and other effects of bacterial imbalance. In addition, vitamin C, carotenoids, and potassium in guava all help to strengthen and improve the function of the intestines.

7. It helps the thyroid

Guava is a good source of copper which serves a critical function in thyroid metabolism. Copper aids in the control of the production and absorption of hormones.

8. It improves cognitive function

Guava contains energy-boosting and cognitive enhancing b-vitamins, especially vitamins B6 and B3. These vitamins help with a broad range of systems in the body, especially with the functioning of the brain and nervous systems. The results are improved focus and memory retention.

9. It lowers bad cholesterol

Several studies have shown that vitamin B3, or niacin, increases good HDL cholesterol, lowers triglycerides, and lowers bad LDL cholesterol as well as or better than some prescription drugs. Niacin is often prescribed by doctors in combination with statins for the treatment of high cholesterol. Guava provides some of this daily vitamin B3 requirement.

10. It supports healthy, glowing skin

The antioxidants, vitamins A, B, C, and potassium in guava all contribute to good skin health. These nutrients support a clear complexion and can help prevent wrinkles and premature aging. Additionally, the high water content in guava helps keep skin hydrated and plump.

February 14th is Valentine's Day

 

 Jamaican love couple’s guidelines

Yes, my love is true but we have to have some ground rules before we proceed. What is not official and beneficial, I will let it go. I want to live as long as I want and not want for as long as I live. I will not ride on a battleship in order to have a relationship.

Follow these guidelines and all will be well with the world:

1.        Make three true “we” statements each. For instance, “We are both in this room feeling ... “

2.        Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share ... “

3.        If you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for him or her to know.

4.        Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met.

5.        Share with your partner an embarrassing moment in your life.

6.        When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?

7.        Tell your partner something that you like about them already.

8.        What, if anything, is too serious to be joked about?

9.        If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?

10.      Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?

11.      Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?

12.      Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how he or she might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the problem you have chosen.

 

Think on these gems to have a great life, perfect partner and in building the most important institution for Jamaica’s future – the family.

The Health Benefits of Breadfruit

 

 

The breadfruit is a round, rough-skinned, green colored fruit, named for its bread-like texture when cooked. The flavor is mild and potato-like. It’s commonly roasted, boiled, baked, or fried and can be juiced to make a refreshing and healthy drink. Aside from being a robust accompaniment to any meal, breadfruit also happens to be very nutritious. Read on to learn about the many health benefits of breadfruit.

1. Breadfruit improves cardiovascular health

Breadfruit is a good source of potassium, a vasodilator which helps to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. It also has a high fiber content which has been shown to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.

2. It prevents disease

One serving of breadfruit has 46% your daily value of antioxidant vitamin C, which is important for keeping the immune system strong. It has a range of other antioxidants, which help prevent cancer, premature aging, and heart disease by neutralizing free radicals in the body.

3. It’s an energy powerhouse

Breadfruit is a good source of carbs, which is the main source of energy for the body.

4. It’s a good choice for diabetics

Eating breadfruit with your meal will help to prevent insulin spikes. The fiber in breadfruit slows down the body’s processing of sugar.

 

5. It improves digestion

Breadfruit is an excellent source of dietary fiber which is important for smooth digestion. Including breadfruit in the diet can help prevent and relieve constipation and bloating, and reduce your risk of colon cancer.

6. It’s good for your skin

Whether eaten or applied topically, breadfruit can improve skin tone and texture and also help soothe skin irritation and rashes. Breadfruit has anti-inflammatory properties that have a noticeable effect on skin, as well as a range of antioxidants, including vitamin C to keep skin looking young and healthy.