Ready...Set...Life

Get Involved with Your Community

2010-07-16T14:50:00.000-04:00

There are almost endless opportunities to become an active volunteer in your community. In addition to doing a good deed for someone else, you gain the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, enhance your resume, and alleviate the boredom of sitting home! Here are five places where your help is needed:

Scouting – Girl and Boy Scout troops are always looking for volunteers. Whether you just want to offer an extra hand at major events, or enlist as a leader / co-leader, there is sure to be a spot for you in one of these organizations. You can teach life skills, explore new hobbies, participate in outdoor activities, and much more. Keep in mind, though, that you will be required to take training classes and, most likely, have a background check conducted before you can supervise the scouts.

Big Brothers Big Sisters – Share your interests and hobbies with a child who could use a great role model. All you need to commit to is one hour per week, and you need to be comfortable working one-on-one with your little brother or sister. You can read about the program and apply online. Then, you’ll receive an interview and, ultimately, be matched with a child who needs you.

Hospital Volunteering – Odds are your local hospital is always looking for an extra set of hands. Depending on your interests, you can help out in a variety of ways. For example, if you love kids, you can assist in the pediatric ward, spending time with patients, monitoring the playroom, etc. Alternatively, you could help organize publicity efforts in the blood bank, deliver flowers and gifts to patients, or assist in the cafeteria. In addition to the sense of pride you’ll get from volunteering, hospitals may also offer volunteers discount CPR / First Aid certification, free meals during volunteer hours, letters of recommendation, and other incentives.

Senior Center / Nursing Home – Volunteering with the elderly is a great way to give back, and you’re likely to gain some gems of wisdowm from the individuals you spend time with. Volunteer activities with this group vary widely, so you are sure to find something that suits your time / interests. You can perform music, read, do crafts, play a game, take a walk, or even just sit and chat with a few new friends.

Parks and Trails – If nature is your passion, consider local trail restoration groups. You’ll make friends who share your interests, and have a great excuse to get outside. These teams clean up litter, trim stray branches, fill in ditches, etc. to make trails safe for visitors. Some groups also participate in surveys of local wildlife, community education, and other activities that may be of interest to you.

Safe Deposit Boxes

2010-07-15T17:44:00.000-04:00

At some point in your life, you are likely to possess something valuable that absolutely cannot be lost or damaged. It may be important paperwork, a family heirloom, expensive jewelry, etc. Whatever the item, you will need a secure place to store it where it willb e safe from robbery, fire, flood, and other potential destruction. One such location is a safe deposit box, which you can rent from your bank.

Specific bank policies on safe deposit boxes vary, but prices and fees are fairly common. A small safe deposit box will likely cost you $15 to $20 per year to rent. Medium-sized boxes start around $40 per year, and larger boxes can cost up to $500 annually. Additionally, you may be charged a key deposit fee. At many banks, these expenses can be automatically deducted from your accounts, so keeping your box is a relatively hands-off process.

Once you’ve got a safe deposit box, you need to decide what goes inside. For starters, you should keep paperwork that cannot be easily recovered. This includes original birth certificates, titles, mortgages, wills, stocks, and bonds. You should also use the box for any valuables that are irreplaceable, such as old / expensive jewelry, important collections (like stamps), or family artifacts and photos.

Of course, there are things that should not go in your safe deposit box. Since you will not always have ready access to the box, you want to avoid leaving passports, social security cards, medical information, etc. inside. Remember, banks close and you will not be able to gain entry to your safe deposit box after hours. For this same reason, you should keep copies of any important papers you put in the box.

It is a good idea to make a list and take pictures of items left in your safe deposit box should there ever be a problem. Obviously, safe deposit boxes are intended to be completely secure. However, it is always best to plan for the worst. Despite being resistant to fire, flood, etc., emergencies do happen. In extremely rare instances, it is even possible that someone could illegally gain entry to your box. Another, more common, scenario is someone giving their spouse access, and then going through a messy split.

Items in your safe deposit box are not FDIC insured like accounts. Unless a bank has done something negligent, they are not responsible for losses you suffer in the event of an emergency. However, most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance will cover safe deposit box items up to a certain value. Alternatively, you can purchase additional coverage just for these important items.

Play Games for Charity

2010-07-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

Looking for a quick break at work? Need a short respite from studying? Before you spend another minute harvesting your Farmville crops, consider these online games that donate money to charity. Not only will you get your break, and possibly learn something new, but you will also be helping to save the world one click at a time!

Charitii

This crossword-style game stands out among other charity games because it lets you choose your cause from five worthy charities. Donations come from supporters who in turn get ads on the site. As you play the word game, the skill level adjusts to become harder or easier. There are 100 difficulty levels to read, so the game is great for continued playing.

FreeRice

FreeRice is a vocabulary game that provides rice to the UN World Food Programme for every correct answer you get. Like Charitii, the levels change as you answer questions right or wrong. You can also choose specific subjects for vocabulary, like geography or chemistry, and even change the language. This makes FreeRice great for anyone who needs to brush up on their German or practice for the GRE. To date, FreeRice has donated more than 80 billion grains of rice around the world.

FreePoverty

FreePoverty is a geography game that asks you to locate important places on a world map. The closer you are to the correct location, the greater the donation made. At FreePoverty, donations are in the form of clean water to countries in need.

Games That Give

Games That Give is sponsored by several well-known companies including Pepsi, Dominos, Starbucks, and Quaker. The site features more than 25 popular flash games, most of which you will recognize. For each game of blackjack, snake, sudoku, crazy taxi, etc., the site donates money to the charity of your choice. All of the charities are fairly well known and include UNICEF, Ronald McDonald House, United Way, and the American Heart Association. Signing up for an account allows you to track your donations and gain a place on the leaderboard.

Making Iced Tea

2010-07-07T10:48:00.000-04:00

Grabbing a bottle of iced tea can seem like a great idea on a hot summer day. After all, it’s healthier than soda, right? Well, that depends on the kind of tea you grab. Some brands load their iced drinks with sugar, which also means excess calories. In fact, some brands of iced tea can pack more than 200 calories into one bottle. That’s pretty impressive when you consider that plain, black tea has zero calories to start with.

A better alternative to sugary bottled tea is to brew your own iced tea at home. In doing so, you can experiment with flavors and limit, or even eliminate, the extra sugar. Plus, you’ll only end up spending around 50 cents or less per cup!

Let’s start with a basic formula for making iced tea. While there are countless recipes available online, the basic process is the same.

Start with two cups of boiling water.

Add 6-7 tea bags (or an equivalent amount of loose-leaf tea) and steep. How long you steep the tea depends on the type you are using, but it should be listed on the package. Generally, you wont need more than 2-4 minutes.

After steeping, add enough water to make two quarts of iced tea.
Search Amazon.com for iced tea
Then, refrigerate until it’s nice and cold. That’s it!

Once you have the basic method down, you can experiment with flavors and extra ingredients. Remember, there are several kinds of tea and each possess unique benefits. You can also mix various flavors / types to create the perfect blend. For example, I have mixed black chai tea with green tea for a milder chai taste. Adding fresh fruit to your iced tea can also add a burst of flavor. You can also try adding spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, etc. If you must sweeten your tea, consider your options. Artificial sweeteners eliminate calories, but there are mixed opinions on them. Honey goes great with tea and is healthier than processed sugar. You can also add sweetened juice to your tea. There are endless possibilities!

New Places to Find a Job

2010-07-06T18:22:00.000-04:00

Finding a job in today’s economy can be a difficult prospect. You can spend hours tirelessly searching Monster.com and blindly submitting resumes to recruiters. However, there are other ways to find job openings that are often overlooked. Whether you’re looking for entry level work or a management position, it is important to use all available resources and connections. Here are three ways you can improve your job search by networking both online and off.

Check Industry Forums

Forums are not just places to share ideas or gossip. Forums related to specific industries (like gaming or marketing) are also great for a job hunt. Members often post open positions on forums where they know knowledgable professionals will be posting. Plus, a forum provides a place for you to “sell yourself” to prospective employers. You can post your credentials and the job you are looking for. Don’t forget to check forums of real world recruiting events as well. You may find out about job fairs, trade shows, etc. where you can pitch your resume.

Join Professional Organizations

Most professions today offer some sort of networking organization to assist with professional development. These are also great places to find a job. You can browse organization websites, communicate with fellow members, attend networking events, etc. You should also look for local Young Professionals groups. These are great for making friends, participating in social activities, and, of course, finding a job.

Use Social Networking Sites

Believe it or not, you really can find job listings on Facebook and Twitter. To start your social networking job hunt, find the profiles of companies you are interested in working for. Often, recruiters will post openings on these pages. You should also keep an eye out for ads on Facebook, which may include job offers. As for twitter, there are special sites devoted to finding job posts. Considering how many professionals use Twitter, it’s not surprising that they tweet job openings.

Turn Your Hobby into a Job

2010-07-06T10:22:00.001-04:00

Everyone has something they are passionate about. Whether it is biking, reading, or collecting stamps, we all have hobbies. Turning your hobby into a job is a great way to multitask having fun with making money. While not all hobbies can become full-time careers, many offer ways to earn extra spending cash part-time. Here are five hobbies that can make you money:

If you’re passionate about hiking…

You can look into a full-time job as a park ranger. Park rangers have a wide range of duties from conservation to fire prevention to community education. Becoming a ranger usually requires formal training, but requirements vary depending on the size and status of the park. Rangers can be hired seasonally or year-round and may receive free housing on park grounds.

Another way to turn a hiking hobby into a job is to work as a counselor, educator, or trail guide at a camp or park. The level of job intensity for this can range from leading nature hikes to supervising overnight backpacking trips. Jobs of this nature are also available through companies that organize public and private hiking groups.

From time to time environmental groups need people to survey or maintain trails. This means you earn cash just for taking a hike and making simple observations. You can also use your hiking experiences to contribute to hiking guides that may offer money for quality writing.

If you’re a gamer…

Programming your own game may be beyond the abilities of most hobbyist gamers, but there are other ways to earn cash from this hobby. Being an expert gamer means you are capable of writing quality guides. Whether these are published on a blog (with ad revenue) or submitted for publication, this can be a fun way to make some extra cash.

Another option is to become a beta tester for game companies. This often requires a presence in the gaming industry. In other words, you need to have an active voice in major forums and attend conventions. This type of networking can also land creative authors a job writing the storylines for video games.

If you’re a movie buff…

Sure, you could go to film school, but if you’re looking for a quicker way to make this hobby your job, there are some other great options out there. As with any hobby, you can always earn some extra cash by starting a blog. Publishing some great content online can open the door to other publishing opportunities. You may even be able to become a movie critic , whether for a local paper or a national publication.

If you’re obsessed with music…

There are several options for part-time music jobs even if you don’t plan to become a professional musician. Craigslist often lists openings for musicians to play gigs. You can also join a local community band / orchestra that plays small shows and parties, or look into pit orchestras at a nearby theater.

For those interested in listening to music but who don’t actually play, there are still ways to make some cash from your hobby. Craigslist and similar sites offer short-term work as promoters for musical events. You can also look into becoming a DJ or local radio host.

If you’re a foodie…

Who doesn’t love to eat? One great way to make money while chowing down on some delicious foods is to become a taste tester. Many major food corporations seek out testers to help them with quality control and product development. You can also start a blog, and potentially get hired by a local publication, to write food reviews. If your hobby extends to baking, consider selling your own treats or publishing a cookbook. You can also offer cooking lessons or be trained as a chef / pastry artist.

Five Unusual Hotels

2010-07-05T22:43:00.000-04:00

Looking for an interesting getaway this summer? Check out this article highlighting some of the most unusual vacation spots in the United States. Whether you've got a weekend or a week to spend away, it's always fun to try something different like sleeping in an igloo or a tree house.

Get a Deal a Day

2010-07-02T09:49:00.000-04:00

Woot!, one of the most famous Deal-a-Day sites was just bought by the online retail supergiant Amazon.com. This fun article from Mashable got me thinking about the other deal-a-day options out there.

For those unfamiliar with this phenomenon, many sites on the web offer consumers special offers with a “one deal per day” promotion. While such sites aim to entice impulse buyers, they can also be great places to find bargains…as long as you remember to only buy stuff you will actually use. Here are some of the best Deal-a-Day sites:

Woot! – The site that prompted this post offers random discounted products daily (often electronics). There are also spinoff sites from Woot! Showcasing wine, t-shirts, and children’s products.

Yugster – Yugster offers a limited number of a special discount item each day. Like Woot!, there are also special category deals like a daily watch and products that remain on the site until they sell out, whether they last an hour or a week.

Tanga – Like Woot! and Yugster, this site offers a deal a day in several different categories. One unique category is Tanga’s magazine daily deal, which offers discounted subscriptions. Also, Tanga’s t-shirt deals tend to be cheaper than Woot!. A major selling point of Tanga, though, is that is has a nice community as well. You can play games on the site, participate in discussion forums, add friends, and track other users’ activities.

Amazon.com – Online retail giant Amazon offers daily deals in all categories including music, DVDs,and electronics.

Giveaway of the Day – This site offers a different free software title for download each day. Products offered are generally not available for free elsewhere and range from games to web editors to security tools.

Game Du Jour – This site offers a new PC game for a low price each day. You can download a free trial before you buy too!

Jewelry DOD – This site, as you probably figured out, has daily jewelry deals. When I wrote this, they had amethyst earrings for nearly 90% off.

Deal of the Day Tracker – This site is great at aggregating daily deals from all across the web. The product selection can be a bit overwhelming, but it saves you from having to check each deal website individually.

TodaysDOD – Siilar to Deal of the Day Tracker, this site has great visuals of all the products offered as well as user ratings of the products.

Find Volunteer Opportunities Online

2010-06-28T23:37:00.002-04:00

Summer is a great time to give back by volunteering. There are countless organizations seeking help, and you can find the perfect organization for your interests and skills by searching online. Here are four sites to get you started:

Volunteer Match – This site posts a wide variety of volunteer activities from other organizations. You can easily search their database by inputting your zip code and narrow your results with some nice advanced search features. You can even look for virtual opportuntities that let you save the world from the comfort of your keyboard.

All For Good – With Facebook and Google integration, All for Good makes it easy to share your volunteer activities with friends and get updates of new opportunities nearby. Volunteer events are shown on a map, and the interface is rather simple. However, this means the only advanced search option is the ability to add a keyword.

Idealist – Idealist is a great place for to find volunteer opportunities. It has similar advanced search features to Volunteer Match, but with a wider range of non-profits listing on the site. Also, Idealist provides information on internships and jobs in the non-profit sector.

Servenet – Though the site says it’s still in beta, Servenet is another useful tool to use. In addition to finding volunteer opportunities, you can also connect with likeminded individuals in the communities section. You can also look for grants for your own project ideas, read about service updates, and view a calendar of major charity events and conferences.

Home Filing System: What to Keep

2010-06-22T11:09:00.000-04:00

Saving important documents is essential for your finances, career, health, etc. However, when it comes to setting up a home filing system, everyone is different. Some people opt for filing cabinets while others shove old receipts in a shoe box. Others have gone completely digital by scanning and shredding the information they need to keep handy (though it is important to note this method requires security measures and frequent system checkups).

No matter what system you decide on, you need to know what documents need to be saved and what can be discarded. If you save stuff you don't need, your system becomes cluttered. On the other hand, forgetting to save an important piece of paperwork can have consequences in the future.

Here's a short list of what you should always save:

Bank Statements
Track your spending, keep track of major withdrawals, guard against fraud.
Paid Bills
Proof in case there is a mix-up, another way to track spending.
Credit Card Information
Protect against fraud, stay up to date on policy changes.
Health Records / Bills
Information for new doctors / specialists, timeline of health history, proof of payment.
Career Certifications
It can be difficult to get copies of certificates.
Education Transcripts / Degrees
It can be difficult to get new copies.
Insurance Policies
Always be prepared for an accident / emergency.
Product Warranties
Save money if something breaks.
Receipts from Debit / Credit Purchases
Balance your monthly statements.
Pay Stubs / W-2 Forms
Save at least the last year's for easier tax filing.

Ride Your Bike!

2009-04-18T18:20:00.004-04:00

Earth Day is right around the corner (April 22) and it's time to start thinking about how you can go green. One great option is to use your car less and ride your bike more. Not only does this reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but it can also save you money at the pump. Plus, biking is great cardiovascular exercise and can help you get into shape for the upcoming bathing suit season.

Here are some more reasons to start biking this spring:

Bike riding has been proven to relieve stress and anxiety.
A moderate bike ride can burn more than 500 calories in an hour!
A bike can go places, like trails, that a car could never go.
The average commuter bike (one used for casual riding) costs between $80 and $300. That's much cheaper than buying a new car!
In high-traffic areas, a bike can be faster than a car.
New laws and designated routes means biking is safer than ever.

If you are not an avid cyclist, making the switch from car to bike can be tough. You'll need to buy a quality bike, learn about bike laws, plan your routes, and, of course, stay safe. Still, the ultimate payoffs from this effort are certainly worth it. To get started, check out this how-to guide.

Eating in Season

2009-04-18T16:20:00.002-04:00

Spring is here! Not only does that mean warmer weather, but it also means a new supply of fresh, seasonal produce. Knowing what's available this time of year can help you eat healthy for less. Plus, buying local, seasonal produce is good for the environment and the economy.

Depending on where you live, your seasonal produce options will vary. A great tool to find out exactly what is ripe near you is the NRDC: Eat Local site. In general, though, here are some of the foods found across the country this time of year:

New England: arugula, mushrooms, radishes

Mid-Atlantic: spinach, asparagus, turnips, lettuce

Southeast: strawberries, blueberries, snap beans, cabbage, yellow squash

Mid-West: peas, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, asparagus

Gulf Coast: asparagus, blackberries, peaches, cucumber

West Coast: artichokes, green onions, cauliflower, lemons, cherries, beets

Mountain States: potatoes, rhubarb, sprouts, asparagus

Netbook or Notebook?

2009-04-14T12:27:00.002-04:00

Thinking of getting a new portable computer? Well, you certainly have plenty of options. Most new models, though, fall into one of two categories: netbooks and notebooks. The major difference between these products is their size, with netbooks averaging less than 5 pounds and with 8-10 inch screens. Hoewver, there are other important differences as well. These include processing speeds, disk space, graphics capabilities, etc. So, which model is best for you? Consider the following:

If you want easy access to the web on the go....Netbook (some even have built-in 3G for anywhere connectivity)
If you plan to watch your favorite movies....Notebook (better graphics, faster speeds, and larger screens)
If you need to check e-mail on the go....Netbook
If you want to play some serious games...Notebook
If you want to burn some music CDs....Notebook (netbooks do not have built-in optical drives for managing CDs / DVDs)
If you just want to do basic word processing....Netbook
If you have a huge music collection...Notebook (these have larger hard drives, but you can hookup an external one to a netbook as well)
If you are on a tight budget...Netbook

If you want some more detailed information, check out this article I wrote on Suite101.

Health Insurance for Young Adults

2009-04-10T20:25:00.002-04:00

When you graduate school and head out on your own, you certainly have a lot to think about. Unfortunatelyy, many of us overlook the need to get medical insurance. For the most part, graduatioin means we are no longer covered by our parents' or university's medical benefits. If you've got a full-time gig with benefits, that's not a problem. However, not everyone ends up with the total career package right out of school. So, what do you do in the meantime?

Well, first of all you certainly don't want to just take your chances with no insurance. Medical bills can really add up if anything happens, and you are more likely to neglect routine care if you don't have insurance. At the same time, you probably can't afford full, permanent medical benefits on your own. So, you'll need to find a short-term alternative.

Thankfully, there are several options that can fill the medical coverage gap between graduation and employment. For more information, check out this article.

How to Choose a Laptop

2009-04-10T01:01:00.003-04:00

Trying to decide on the perfect laptop can be intimidating if you aren’t already a techie guru. With so many options available today, it’s hard to know what model and specs will suit your needs. Plus, in the current economy its important to find the most cost-efficient option. To help you make your next portable computing decision, here’s an overview of the major features and specs to consider.

Size – Today’s laptops are getting smaller and smaller. From the ultra-portable netbooks to the movie-worthy widescreens, there are a lot of options to choose from. When picking your laptop size, consider the following:

Where will I be taking this? If you travel a lot, a smaller model will probably make more sense.
How intense are my viewing needs? Do you plan to do some major movie screenings or hardcore gaming on your laptop? If so, a larger widescreen model will be more satisfying.

Hard Drive- In the last few years, the amount of data a laptop can hold has grown exponentially. With today’s models, you can easily get up to 250GB of space (if not more!). However, the average user will probably not exceed 80GB, unless you have a GIANT music collection or take thousands of photos. Remember, you can always get an external hard drive if you run out of space.

System Memory – This is the amount of RAM in your system and is what keeps everything running quickly and smoothly, particularly when multitasking with several programs. For the most part, your options range from less than 1GB to 4GB of system memory. If you plan to use most current software, or run Windows Vista, you will want to get at least 2GB. However, keep in mind that most netbooks only have 1GB.

Battery Life – Do you take your laptop everywhere? If so, you will want a model that can hold a charge when you’re away from a plug. However, don’t splurge on long battery life if you will almost always be plugged in. As a general rule of thumb, batteries that can last 4+ hours are considered particularly long-lasting. However, some models wont even make it 3 hours on a single charge. Also, remember that how you use your laptop will affect its charge span. For example, word processing will take less power than watching a DVD.

CD / DVD – Small netbooks wont offer any “optical drive” on their models. However, standard laptops usually come with a CD / DVD drive that also has burning capabilities. You can also pay more for models that offer Blu-ray compatibility and LightScribe (a feature that lets you burn graphics on the top of a CD/DVD).

Video – You have two options when it comes to video, integrated or dedicated. This basically means you either have the video capabilities built into the system, or you have a separate video chip set. Integrated video, generally made by Intel, is fine for most casual users who do not watch high-def movies or play high-graphic games. Meanwhile, gamers will want a dedicated chip set from nVidia or ATI.

Remember, it’s a good idea to test out the model you want to buy. Even if you plan to buy online, get to a store first and see a few laptops. You want to make sure the screen suits you, the keyboard is comfortable, and the overall look and feel fits with your needs. Of course, custom models are difficult to see before you buy. However, trying out a similar model is still a great way to ensure you make the bbest choice. Good luck with your hunt! And be sure to check back soon for an article on netbooks vs. laptops!

Camping: The Perfect, Cheap Weekend Escape

2009-04-08T18:24:00.004-04:00

Looking to get away for a weekend but don't have a lot of money to spend? As the weather gets warmer, camping can be the perfect way to escape for a few days. Most sites charge less than $20 per night for a spot where you can pitch a tent and build a campfire. Don't feel like "roughing it"? For a little more money you can probably rent a bungalow or cabin.

Not only is camping exceptionally cheap, it is also the perfect escape from the stresses of your workweek. You'll get to spend quality time outdoors, which is a proven mood-booster. Plus, assuming you leave your blackberry home, you can get away from the constant communication overload that comes with owning a computer, television, cell phone, etc.

Make your trip more exciting by tossing in some mountain biking, kayaking, or hiking. Not feeling active? Find a site where you can relax with a fishing pole or even lay on the beach. To find your perfect spot, try visiting GoCampingAmerica or Camping.com for reviews / searches. The second site also has some interesting recipes that can be easily prepared on a camping grill or even over an open campfire.

Ready to plan your own trip? Check out this article for tips on how to do it. Oh, and don't forget the marshmallows!

The Perfect Credit Card

2009-03-26T22:04:00.005-04:00

Still looking for the perfect credit card? Well, I've found another great credit card comparison site. It's called dealsforcreditcards.com.

What's great about this site is it doesn't just list various credit cards. It also provides reviews and editor's picks to help you find the best offers.

The site also divides credit cards into some unique categories. Looking for a card tha accommodates balance transfers? Want the most frequent flier miles? You can filter out sites that don't meet these criteria. DeaslforCreditCards offers info on eighteen unique types of cards. Some examples include student cards, rewards cards, customizable cards, gas cards, and low interest cards. There's even a section for people with bad credit or no credit at all!

DealsforCreditCards also offers the unique option to sort cards by credit issuer. In today's challenging economy, it's a smart idea to pick an issuer you trust to back your credit line. The site also offers amazing insight with its dedicated articles forum. I especially liked this article on cash back cards. It really sheds light on the cash vs. points debate.

Speed Reading

2009-03-20T22:08:00.002-04:00

Whether you're a student with a ton to read or managing a text-heavy desk job, learning to effectively speed read can save you a lot of time. The key to speed reading is to retain as much information as possible even while you breeze through the words on a page or screen. Even slow readers can master this art by using one of the proven speed reading out there. First, though, you may want to check your skills with an online speed reading test.

Speed reading was actually first popularized after the U.S. Airforce demonstrated they could train people to read words more quickly without eliminating comprehension. In the 1940s, Harvard Business School jumped on board and tested the use of films to improve reading time. Then, in the 1950s, the first widely popular speed reading technique, the Wood Method, was introduced. The premise was simple, by using your finger as a pacer, you can help move your eyes more quickly across a page of text.

There are two components to speed reading: faster eye movements and quick information processing. For the first part, you can try the basic "finger pacer" technique, but you may get better results by training your eyes with special exercises. In speed reading lingo, the goal is to decrease "fixation time," or the time you spend looking at each section of text. You'll also want to enhance your ability to move from one line's end to the next line's beginning.

As for the comprehension component, the most important thing to do is establish a purpose before reading. This means knowing what information you want to pull from the text as you breeze through it. Also, you should try to focus on blocks of words. With practice, you'll see how easy it is to break the "one word at a time" habit most of us grow up with.

The best speed reading programs do cost money. You can either learn by reading books about the technique or by using specialty software. Many software options are available online for download. One top seller is RocketReader, which also offers a free trial. Other great options can be found on this review.

For some free tips, check out the following:

Think you're getting good at speed reading? Check out the World Championship Speed Reading Competition! The top readers there can reach up to 2,000 words per minute.

Mange Your Money with Buxfer

2009-03-14T20:32:00.003-04:00

Keeping track of your budget online is one of the most effective ways to keep your finances on track. Of course, several sites have popped up as big winners in the financial management biz, but that one that truly stands out to me is Buxfer. It simplifies the sign-up and login procedure, helps you track IOUs with friends, and shows you exactly where your money is going. Plus, its security is guaranteed and backed by McAffee. Need more info? Here's the top reasons you should use Buxfer:

Sign up with your existing ID from AIM, Facebook, Yahoo, Google, and more!
Stay up to date with mobile, iphone, iGoogle, and Facebook updates.
Automatically update your info by linking (securely) to various accounts.
Keep track of group finances (split bills, clubs, IOUs, etc.)
Pay bills online in fewer steps.
Download / upload from other money programs.
Cheap upgrade for cash-flow projections.

Energy Boosting Nutrients

2009-03-11T12:05:00.001-04:00

Let's face it, we could all use a little extra energy some days. While caffeine might seem like a great, momentary solution, you'll feel much better if you up your energy levels everyday. How? By getting enough of these essential vitamins and minerals:

Iron - 18mg of this mineral per day helps your body get the oxygen it needs and produce energy. Unfortunately, if you don't eat a lot of red meat, you may be missing out on this nutrient. A lack of iron can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and even depression.
How to get it: beef, kidney beans, lentils, spinach

Magnesium - This mineral might not be mentioned often, but it's essential for muscle function and stable energy. Magnesium can also relax nerves, strengthen bones, and regulate blood sugar.
How to get it: pumpkin seeds, salmon, black beans, spinach

Potassium - The 4,700mg of potassium your body needs each day plays a vital role in muscle contraction and regulates mineral balance. It's especially important if you work out and sweat a lot. A lack of potassium can not only weaken your muscles, but it also affects your mood making you irritable and tired.
How to get it: potatoes, avocado, spinach, winter squash

Vitamin E - Nearly 30% of all people aren't getting enough vitamin E in their diets. You need 15 milligrams per day to protect your heart and immune system. It also helps you absorb other nutrients and digest food comfortably.
How to get it: olives, nuts, seeds, fortified cereal (like Total)

Zinc - You need only 8mg a day, but most people don't even get that. It's great for regulating metabolism, blood sugar, and energy levels.
How to get it: green peas, beef, shrimp, low-fat yogurt

A MySpace Credit Card?

2009-03-06T23:30:00.002-05:00

There are a lot of credit cards available, and most come with some sort of incentive or reward. From points to airline miles to cash back, you can truly find it all. Who would have imagined, though, that your credit card could come with MySpace incentives?

Well, Citibank imagined just that. Its new MySpace-themed wallet accessory (called Citi FOWARD) offers rewards like music downloads and access to special events. It also provides discounts, although few specifics regarding what kind are offered on their site.

MySpace card users earn points for purchases related to pop-culture (like music, DVDs, and books). They can also earn credit for good credit behavior and by performing acts of community service.

One great feature about the MySpace card is its attempt to teach young people good spending habits. If you pay your bill on time and stay under your credit limit, you can reduce your APR. Plus, good habits earn you 100 bonus points each billing cycle.

Best time for Exercise

2009-03-02T20:15:00.002-05:00

There's a lot of debate over what time of day is best to workout. Some people say you should hit the gym first thing in the morning to rev up metabolism and burn off fat stores. Others think you should workout in the afternoon, preferably before your midday meal. Then, there's a new study that says 4pm to 7pm is prime time for fitness. Let's look at the top reasons to exercise in each time slot:

Morning:

Surveys show people who exercise first thing are more likely to stick with their routine.
Helps boost energy levels and wake you up.
Air pollution and temperature are lower in the morning.

Afternoon:

Lunch hour worokouts boost mood / energy for the rest of the workday.
Great opportunity to recruit a fitness buddy from work.
Boosts metabolism before your next meal.

Late Afternoon / Evening:

Lung capacity appears to be best during this time.
Muscles are completely warmed up, which reduces injury risk.
Relieves stress and promotes sounder sleep.

Ultimately, you want to pick the exercise time that's right for you. Try to keep it consistent, though, because your body adjusts to your workout schedule. Also, avoid working out when you're starving or right before bedtime. Both can have negative effects on your body.

Tips for Holding Better Conversations

2009-03-01T18:51:00.002-05:00

We converse with other people every day, but have you ever stopped to think about how good you are at this vital interpersonal skill? Think about it, the most successful and most popular individuals are those who can carry on a conversation with almost anyone. With this in mind, here's a few tips to make you a more successful conversationalist.

Don't Compare - A lot of us have this nasty habit of responding to every statement with a comparison from our own lives. For example, someone says "Man, I have a ton of work this week," and you respond with "Me too! I've got 2 reports, a presentation, and a ton of meetings." This shows the other person you aren't truly interested in hearing what they have to say.
Be Concise - When you're asked a question, don't just ramble on or launch into a lengthy story. Consider what was asked and respond appropriately without hogging the conversation.
Avoid Controversial Topics - Sure, a good debate is great among friends, but when you're talking to someone new, try to avoid touchy subjects. It's best to get to know someone before you make them defend their views.
Selective Eye Contact - Maintaining eye contact is an important conversational skill, but don't stare down your companion. Remember to break eye contact occasionally to avoid being intimidating (or simply creepy)
Restate Key Points - Show your genuine interest by restating important points your partner makes. Don't sound like a clone, though. Paraphrase and summarize to show you understand.
Let the Conversation End - Look, you can't talk to everyone for hours on end. When the conversation seems to be waning, let it end on a positive note rather than drawing it out and potentially boring your companion. If you want to talk more, be sure to exchange contact information.

Chicken on the Cheap

2009-02-25T21:17:00.004-05:00

Trying to eat delicious, healthy food on a budget? Planning affordable meals is easier than you think. First, cut back on going out and learn to prepare simple dishes at home. Second, pick meals that utilize low-cost, healthy ingredients. Remember, cooking from scratch is better for your body and your wallet than going out or buying frozen meals.

One of the greatest ingredients to start cooking with is chicken. Sure, you can get tired of eating the same thing every night, but with such a variety of cheap chicken recipes out there, you can enjoy this meat regularly without boredom.

Each of these three recipes (which make 2 servings each) is under $3 per serving:

Chile-Crusted Chicken

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1/4 cup bread crumbs (make your own with some toasted wheat bread!)
1/2 tsp. chile powder
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. oregano
1/4 cup sour cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Mix together breadcrumbs and seasonings.
3. Coat chicken with sour cream.
4. Dip chicken in crumb mixture.
5. Bake chicken for 15 - 20 minutes or until cooked through.

White Chicken Chili

1 bonless, skinless chicken breast
1 tsp. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, pressed
1 can diced tomatoes (with chilies if you prefer)
1 can white beans (like cannellini)
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 tsp. ground cumin
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tbsp. flour or cornstarch

1. In a large pot, saute garlic and onion
2. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and add to pot
3. Continue cooking until chicken is no longer pink
4. Add tomatoes, beans, and chicken broth and bring to a boil
5. Stir in seasonings and let simmer 25 minutes
6. Add flour / cornstarch while stirring until chili thickens

Lemon Garlic Chicken

2 chicken breast halves or 4 chicken thighs
1 tbsp. olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1/2 tsp. oregano

1. Mix together all ingredients except chicken.
2. Place chicken in glass baking dish.
3. Cover with mixture and let marinate at least 20 minutes.
4. Bake at 400 degrees for 40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Working for the Government

2009-02-24T12:07:00.002-05:00

A great alternative to working in the private sector is obtaining a government job. Contrary to what many people believe, government work is not always under-appreciated and underpaid. In fact, most government jobs offer great incentives. From competitive salary to exceptional benefits packages, a job in the public sector can be truly rewarding.

In addition to the great benefits of a government job, these positions often offer greater job security than those in the private sector. In fact, given the current economic climate, a public service position can be easier to obtain and retain than work in other industries.

To find a government job, you can check your local classifieds or browse one of these specialized sites:

GovCentral

USAJobs

Work for America

You can also find information on top-paying government jobs here and a survey of the best places to work in government here.