Decision-making is the single greatest skill that dictates our success or failure in life.

Think about where you are right now—your job, your relationships, even the little things like what you had for breakfast. Every single aspect of your life is the result of decisions you’ve made along the way.

But it doesn’t stop with our past. Who you become tomorrow will depend on the decisions you make today. Whether we’re aware of it or not, every decision, big or small, shapes who we are, where we go, and the life we create.

35,000 decisions a day

And here’s a mind-blowing fact: According to research, we make 35,000 decisions every single day. Yes, you read that right. That means, if you sleep a solid seven hours, you’re making around:

• 2,058 decisions every waking hour
• 34.3 decisions a minute
• 0.57 decisions every second

How is that even possible? Well, most of our decisions happen on autopilot—without much thought or effort. More than 95% of the choices we make are subconscious, shaped by habits, routines, and mental shortcuts our brains create to conserve energy. Although these unconscious decisions fly under the radar, they still add up to shape our habits and, ultimately, our lives.

That leaves 1,750 decisions we actually think about. Decisions that ultimately determine our success or failure. To put it simply, decision-making is the cornerstone of our lives. No other skill has a greater impact on our lives than decision-making.

Unhappy with where you are in life? Make better decisions. Want greater wealth, health, and happiness? Make better decisions. Success in life ultimately comes down to the quality, speed, and implementation of our decisions.

A new decision-making perspective

This is where Decision-Makership comes in. After years in the military, in politics, as a serial entrepreneur, and a Senior Global Manager in a top Fortune 200 company, I learned how important decision-making is.

While there are many frameworks and tools out there, I began to develop a fresh perspective on decision-making—one that blends the rigor of the US Army’s time-tested processes with my own visual, adaptive approach and the latest research in cognitive psychology.

I wanted to create a resource that would shorten that steep learning curve—so others wouldn’t have to stumble through the same trial and error that I went through. This will be the first set of articles describing in detail what separates Decision-Makership from other systems and how it can help you make better decisions, faster, easier, and with more positive outcomes.

By combining the rigorous, time-tested U.S. Army decision-making processes with the clarity of visual thinking and the latest in cognitive science, I decided to name my unique decision-making framework DECISION-MAKERSHIP.

The suffix “ship” is derived from Old English which means state, condition, or quality. In modern terms, it refers to the qualities, skills, and characteristics of a certain role or position. There is no word to indicate the quality and condition of being a good decision-maker. Just like how leadership encompasses all the qualities of being a leader, I created the term “Decision-Makership.”

Subsequent posts and the book I am writing:

…is the culmination of that journey, offering you a structured and adaptable easy-to-understand decision-making process for making decisions that can not only give you the edge in your decision-making, but change your life considerably.

In conclusion, I want to welcome you to the journey in learning how to make better decisions in life!

The post Decision-Makership: The Art of SMART Decision-Making appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

Plan Ahead

Preparation begins long before a disaster strikes. Start by assessing common risks in your area, like earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods. Research the types of emergencies most likely to happen and tailor your plan accordingly.

Share the plan with your family members and involve everyone in its creation. This will help ensure all family members know their roles and responsibilities.

Make a Plan Form

Documenting your emergency plan is essential for clarity and recall. Use a family emergency plan form to organize critical details, like emergency contacts, designated meeting spots, and evacuation routes. Keep the form in an easily accessible location and review it periodically to make updates as needed.

Build a Kit

An emergency survival kit should include enough food, water, and essentials for at least 72 hours. Some key items to include in your kit are:

• Non-perishable food
• Bottled water (one gallon per person per day)
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First aid kit: Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and over-the-counter medications.
• Medications and prescriptions
• Copies of important documents
• A cell phone charger or power bank
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov

Rotate perishable items regularly to ensure freshness. In addition, your vehicle should always have a car emergency kit.

Low and No-Cost Preparedness

Preparing doesn’t need to break the bank. Many steps, like identifying emergency contacts, learning evacuation routes, or organizing important documents, can be done without spending anything. Look into community programs that offer free preparedness resources, like safety training or disaster kits.

Financial Preparedness

Disasters can also have significant financial implications. So protect yourself by reviewing your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage. Keep some cash on hand since ATMs and financial systems may become unavailable during emergencies. Additionally, store important financial documents in a waterproof and fireproof container.

Get Tech Ready

Technology can be a helpful tool during emergencies. Keep your devices charged, and consider investing in a portable power bank. Download emergency apps, like weather alerts or the FEMA app, to stay up to date on the latest developments.

Use online tools to create digital backups of essential documents, and ensure all your family members know how to access them.

Pets and Animals

Don’t forget to include your pets in your emergency plan. Prepare a kit specifically for them, complete with food, water, leashes, carriers, and their medical records. Be aware of pet-friendly shelters or boarding facilities in your area for evacuation purposes.

Seasonal Readiness (#SummerReady & #WinterReady)

Different seasons bring different challenges. So you need to be ready for summer hazards, like heatwaves or wildfires, by ensuring hydration and proper ventilation at home. For winter, prepare for snowstorms and freezing temperatures by securing heat sources, stockpiling warm clothing, and making your home winter-ready.

Evacuation

Plan safe evacuation routes from your house, workplace, or any frequent location. You should practice these routes with your family so everyone is familiar with them. Identify multiple options in case primary roads are blocked.

Create a checklist of items to grab during an evacuation, including your disaster kit, important documents, and personal essentials.

Shelter

Know the shelters available in your community and how to get there. These could include community centers, schools, or designated emergency sites. If staying home, ensure your space is safe by securing heavy objects and creating a designated safe room.

Safety Skills

Teaching your family basic safety and first-aid skills can save lives. Skills to prioritize include performing CPR, using a fire extinguisher, and treating minor injuries. Many communities offer free or low-cost classes to help families acquire these skills.

Plan for Locations

Emergencies can strike when you’re away from home. Create location-specific plans for places you frequent, like work or school. Identify exits, safe areas, and meeting points for each location. Share these details with family members to ensure everyone is prepared regardless of where they are.

Home Fire Escape Plan

House fires are among the most common emergencies families face. Create a fire escape plan by identifying two exits for every room and designating a meeting spot outside the home. Practice fire drills regularly to ensure all family members can evacuate quickly and safely.

Final Thoughts

No one can predict when or where an emergency will occur, but being prepared can greatly minimize the risks. By creating a detailed Disaster Emergency Plan, gathering essential supplies, and involving your family in the process, you can face the unexpected with confidence.

Start building your plan today—your family’s safety depends on it.

The post How to Create a Disaster Emergency Plan for Your Family appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

The recent disasters in LA highlight the stakes of being unprepared. Because of the 100 mph winds, the fire spread so rapidly that many families had, in some cases, only minutes to evacuate. Many thought they could return. Many were left with only the clothes on their backs because they had no emergency and survival kits prepared. Unfortunately, thousands of these families came back to absolute devastation, losing everything. 

The key is to be ready for a natural disaster before it strikes.

Stocking up on essential items, having a plan with family members, and sorting out pet care is a good idea, even if there is no current threat. From personal experience, you don’t realize the time it takes to gather what you need, and with your brain in fight-or-flight mode, it is easy to forget things.

When COVID struck, then the civil disturbance riots, then the worst first fires in CA history in terms of area, I was one of the first task force commanders to address these issues. The first thing I did was order each of my soldiers and their families to create their own survival gear kits and day bags. We needed to plan for disasters to avoid experiencing them. Especially since we don’t know when we will get called up, we need to have a day bag with 3 days of our uniforms and equipment readily available.

When deciding what you’ll need, ask yourself – if you had only 10 to 15 minutes to evacuate, what would you take? Doing this before you are in a crisis can help reduce panic and save valuable time. Better yet, have them pre-staged for easy access.

What to Keep in Your House

• Keep a fire extinguisher ready and frequently check when it will expire. Make sure everyone at home knows how to use it.
• Be aware of where your gas, electricity, and water main controls are. Know how to switch them off.
• Prepare a list of important phone numbers. Keep it near your house phone or somewhere you can quickly get to it.
• Buy a portable, battery-powered radio or scanner. This way, you can keep up with any updates about fires.
• Always have a flashlight and a pair of sturdy shoes, like hiking boots, beside your bed. This is useful during power outages or if you need to evacuate quickly at night.
• Download these free survival and emergency apps:
  • FEMA App: Take Charge of Disasters
  • First Aid: American Red Cross
  • Hurricane: American Red Cross
  • Earthquake: American Red Cross
  • Pet First Aid: American Red Cross
  • Zello Walkie Talkie
  • Watch Duty (for fires)
  • Disaster Alert
  • Siren GPS

These are just some of the hundreds of apps out there. Some give you real-time alerts, some give you tips for survival, some allow you to communicate with loved ones, and more. Choose the ones you like and have your family download the same to be on the same page.

The Basics of a Survival Kit

A practical survival kit contains items to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours. An emergency disaster kit is a collection of essential items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Here’s what every basic disaster supply kit should include:

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation.
• Nonperishable food: Enough for several days, such as canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruit.
• Prescription medications and glasses.
• First aid kit: Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and over-the-counter medications.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates.
• Whistle to signal for help.
• Dust masks to filter air in case of contamination.
• Tools like a manual can opener and a multi-purpose wrench or pliers.
• Personal hygiene items like moist towelettes, garbage bags, and disinfecting wipes.
• Emergency blankets, additional bedding, or sleeping bags if you live in a cold-weather environment.
• Important documents such as your passports, social security cards and birth certificates, and copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records, stored in a waterproof container.
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov

If you have kids or pets, don’t forget to add these:

• Infant formula and diapers
• Pet food, water, and supplies for your pet
• Paper and pencil, books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children

Seasonal Emergency Kits

Preparedness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Seasonal conditions add specific challenges, so consider tailoring your kits for different times of the year.

Summer Kits

• Extra water to prevent dehydration in extreme heat.
• Sunblock and a wide-brim hat for sun protection.
• Cooling towels and cold packs to avoid heatstroke.
• Lightweight rain gear to shield against unexpected thunderstorms.

Winter Kits

• Compact blankets or sleeping bags for warmth.
• Hand and body warmers.
• Waterproof outdoor clothing for exposure to snow or rain.
• Portable digging tools to free yourself from snow or debris.
• Additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.

Where to Store Your Kits

To ensure you have easy access to emergency supplies, store kits in key locations. Make sure your family knows where they are. If you end up taking items out like batteries, make sure you replace them. 

On each bag, clearly label what type of bag it is, and what type of items are inside. This will help clear up confusion if you have different bags for different crisis. You want to grab the right ones.

Home Survival Kits

Keep a home kit in a central, easily accessible spot. Consider a second kit stored externally, like in the garage, for quick access during an evacuation.

Car Survival Kits

Your vehicle should always have a car emergency kit, including:

• Seat belt cutter and window breaker.
• Flares and an ice scraper.
• Cat litter or carpet scraps for tire traction.
• Duct tape for temporary repairs.

Portable Survival Kits

If you commute via bus or train, consider a small, portable emergency survival kit that includes basics like water, snacks, a flashlight, and a solar charger.

Work Survival Kits

Emergencies don’t always occur at home. Having a work kit ensures you’re prepared if you’re forced to shelter in place for an extended period. Include nonperishable snacks, water, comfortable walking shoes, and first aid supplies.

Specific Emergency and Survival Kits for Unique Needs

To further enhance your preparedness, consider creating specialized kits for different situations.

Pet Survival Kits

If you have pets, don’t forget essentials like:

• Pet food and a water supply.
• Medications.
• A carrier or leash.
• A blanket or pet coat for added comfort.

Power Kits

Whether you stay at home or evacuate, a power kit can be a lifesaver. Include battery-operated lanterns, hand-crank flashlights, and portable phone chargers to stay connected and safe.

Maintaining Your Survival Kits

Your kits aren’t “set it and forget it“ items. Proper maintenance ensures they’re ready when you need them.

• Check items regularly for expiration dates, especially food, water, and batteries.
• Store items properly in airtight containers to prevent damage.
• Update kits annually to adjust to your family’s changing needs, such as new medications or additions to the household.

Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist for assembling a comprehensive emergency kit:

Basic Supplies

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Nonperishable food (3-day supply)
• First aid kit
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Manual can opener
• Backup cellphone charger
• Emergency whistle
• Dust masks
• Multi-purpose tool

Personal Items

• Prescription medications
• Copies of documents (ID, insurance policies)
• Warm clothing and sturdy shoes
• Hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, feminine supplies)
• Books, games, or activities for kids

Specialized Items

• Pet food and supplies
• Battery-powered lantern
• Snow chains or ice scraper (for winter car kits)

Final Thoughts

Emergency situations are unpredictable, but a well-prepared survival kit can keep your family safe, calm, and equipped. Remember, even the most thorough kits are useless if they aren’t accessible or if your loved ones don’t know where to find them. Create a Family Emergency Communication Plan. Take the time to label and communicate their locations clearly.

Preparation saves lives. Start building your survival kits today, and share this guide with your family and friends to help them prepare as well. Together, we can face emergencies with confidence and resilience.

The post The Most Important Survival Kits You Need Right Now appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

machinery before taking on international projects for construction and engineering firms can significantly enhance operational efficiency, ensure compliance with global standards, and minimize potential disruptions. Modern, high-performance equipment can be a game-changer in ensuring that international projects are completed smoothly, on time, and within budget. Below are the key advantages of upgrading machinery when working on international projects.

Advantage 1: Meeting Global Compliance and Safety Standards

International projects often require adherence to various compliance and safety standards that may differ from domestic regulations. Upgrading to newer machinery ensures that equipment meets the latest industry standards, minimizing the risk of regulatory issues that could delay projects or lead to fines. Many countries have strict regulations on emissions, noise levels, and safety features, and modern machinery is often designed to comply with these standards.

Using compliant equipment also builds trust with local authorities and clients, demonstrating that your company values adherence to international guidelines and is committed to safe, responsible operations.

Advantage 2: Enhanced Efficiency and Reduced Downtime

Upgrading machinery means having access to the latest technological advancements, often leading to higher efficiency and less downtime. Newer machines typically have improved engines, automated features, and advanced diagnostics for quicker troubleshooting and maintenance. Having reliable, upgraded equipment is crucial for international projects where access to repair facilities and parts might be limited.

Advanced machinery, like modern excavators, loaders, and Incline Screeners for Sale, supports efficient processing on-site, ensuring that projects stay on track without interruptions caused by machinery breakdowns. Upgraded equipment provides the speed and reliability necessary to meet tight deadlines, particularly when working in challenging environments.

Advantage 3: Adaptability to Different Environments

International projects often involve diverse environments, from urban settings to remote or rough terrains. Newer machinery is designed to handle these conditions with advanced adaptability features such as all-terrain capabilities, improved traction, and enhanced fuel efficiency for remote operations. For instance, modern incline screeners can efficiently separate materials on various terrain types, which is essential for projects in less accessible locations.

Additionally, upgraded machinery is often more energy-efficient, making it ideal for locations with limited access to fuel. By adapting more easily to different environmental conditions, advanced machinery enables teams to work seamlessly across diverse project sites, expanding the range of projects that can be undertaken.

Advantage 4: Cost Savings from Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

While the initial investment in new machinery may seem substantial, the cost savings from fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance often outweigh the expense over time. Newer machines come with better fuel economy, which is especially valuable on international projects where fuel costs can be high. These fuel-efficient models minimize operational expenses, allowing companies to allocate budget resources more effectively.

Furthermore, upgraded equipment requires less frequent maintenance, thanks to advanced engineering and built-in diagnostic systems. When working internationally, where access to repair services may be limited, minimizing the frequency of maintenance is a considerable advantage. Reduced maintenance needs to keep projects moving without unplanned breaks, ultimately saving money and preventing costly delays.

Advantage 5: Enhanced Operator Comfort and Safety

Working on international projects often involves longer hours and potentially harsh conditions. Newer machinery is designed with operator comfort and safety in mind, incorporating features such as climate control, ergonomic seating, and intuitive controls. These features not only enhance the overall work experience but also improve productivity by reducing operator fatigue.

Safety is also paramount, and modern machinery is equipped with advanced safety features like rollover protection systems, emergency stop functions, and enhanced visibility for operators. By prioritizing operator safety and comfort, upgraded machinery supports a healthier, more productive workforce, which is essential for the success of international projects.

Summing Up

Upgrading machinery for international projects brings numerous benefits, from meeting compliance standards to enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and safety. Advanced equipment offers the performance and adaptability required for successful global operations. By investing in modern machinery, companies can reduce operational costs, improve project timelines, and gain a competitive edge in the international market. Embracing advanced equipment is a strategic decision that not only drives project success but also builds a solid foundation for global expansion.

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Every year, Forbes comes out with a list of the richest 500 people worldwide. How do they compare to the richest people of all time? Bill Gates was always at the top until Amazon’s founder, Jeff Bezos, became the first to cross $100 billion in early 2018. In 2018, Forbes listed Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, as the richest person globally after his net worth exceeded $200 billion following a sudden rise in Tesla’s stock. Merely two months later, his wealth reached an astronomical $300 billion, making him the only person to hit this incredible amount.

Since then, his net worth has fluctuated, and as of October 2024, Musk’s net worth was $274.7 billion. To visualize the extraordinary amount, consider that if Musk spent $1 million daily without earning any interest or capital appreciation, it would take him 753 years to use up all his money!

Are today’s billionaires richer than historical figures?

When this list was first compiled in 2015, to make it to the list of the 30 wealthiest individuals in history, one needed to possess at least $64.5 billion, and only 3 on the list were alive. There have been significant changes in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic,  largely due to the stock market’s major growth. Now, to make it to the list, one needs to have at least $123.5 billion, and surprisingly, 13, nearly half, of the 30 are currently living.

In 2015’s list, the 30 richest people had a combined net worth of about $5 trillion. In 2024, this combined wealth has risen to $6.6 trillion, a growth of nearly a third! Even with the growing number of billionaires worldwide, however, compared to past figures, today’s wealthiest don’t seem so rich. So who are the richest people of all time?

How was this list compiled?

Various lists exist online; many quote the same list created 15 years ago without accounting for inflation, and there are usually vast differences. While compiling this research, I focused on reliable sources such as books like All the Money in the World and The Richest of the Rich: The Wealthiest 250 People in Britain since 1066 and other credible publications. To assemble this list, each person’s peak wealth was calculated (in billions), compared to the U.S. GDP at that time, and then adjusted for 2024 dollars.

I separated the list by differentiating between entrepreneurial wealth that was accumulated personally,  and wealth gathered mostly from influential positions. It is often unclear what belongs to the country and what belongs to the individual. I did, however, include Mansa Munsa, who controlled half the world’s gold during his rule.

Have fun perusing this list of historically wealthy figures, but remember, it’s primarily for enjoyment. No list can be definitive or completely accurate and depending on who you ask, the richest people in history could be different! Historical records from ancient times are often limited, exaggerated, or based on folklore and traditional stories. In addition, wealth in earlier times was connected to property or entire kingdoms, making any evaluation very subjective. It is also difficult to convert wealth in terms of currency or purchasing power, as the value of money has changed over time.

The 30 Richest People of All Time!

Below are the 30 richest people of all time at their peak wealth, adjusted for inflation and appreciation of their assets for 2024. The list, including the “Honorable Mentions,” shows rulers, monarchs, and emperors of countries that drew their wealth from the country they ruled. I have also created a separate section for families. Enjoy!

30. Friedrich Weyerhauser (1834-1914) – $112.9 Billion

• Nationality: German-American
• Profession: Timber Magnate

Friedrich Weyerhauser became a pioneering figure in the American lumber industry after emigrating to the United States. He founded the Weyerhaeuser Company, which grew into one of the largest timber companies in the world.

His expansive acquisition of timberlands and strategic business practices marked him as a significant leader in industrialism during the Gilded Age.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

29. Jensen Huang (1963 – Present) – $123.5 Billion

• Nationality: Taiwanese-American
• Profession: Entrepreneur and Computer Scientist

Jensen Huang is the co-founder and CEO of NVIDIA Corporation. Huang has led NVIDIA in revolutionizing graphics processing technology, significantly impacting gaming, professional visualization, and artificial intelligence industries.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

28. Steve Ballmer (1956 – Present) – $125.8 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Businessman and Investor

Steve Ballmer is an American businessman and investor who gained prominence as the CEO of Microsoft from 2000 to 2014. After stepping down from Microsoft, Ballmer purchased the Los Angeles Clippers.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

27. A.T. Stewart (1803-1876) – $126.4 Billion

• Nationality: Irish-American
• Profession: Entrepreneur, Merchant

Alexander Turney Steward was an Irish immigrant who created a profitable and extensive dry goods business. He established one of the first department stores in New York City, innovating the shopping experience with fixed prices and a wide array of goods.

Stewart’s pioneering business model set a precedent for modern retailing, marking him an influential merchant and entrepreneur who significantly impacted the American retail landscape during the 19th century.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

26. Richard B. Mellon (1858-1933) – $128.7 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Banker, Industrialist

Mellon was a prominent American banker and industrialist during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a key figure in the Mellon family, he played a significant role in developing several industries, including coal, steel, and finance.

Mellon’s strategic investments and leadership in the Mellon National Bank contributed to his family’s status as one of America’s wealthiest and most influential dynasties.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

25. Amancio Ortega (1936 – Present) – $131.3 Billion

• Nationality: Spanish
• Profession: Businessman

Founder of Inditex fashion group Ortega pioneered fast fashion through his brand Zara, becoming Spain’s richest individual.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

24. Sergey Brin (1973 – Present) – $131.7 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Computer Scientist and Entrepreneur

Co-founder of Google, Brin revolutionized online search with co-innovator Page, advancing the power and reach of the internet.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

23. Larry Page (1973 – Present) – $137.6 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Computer Scientist and Entrepreneur

Co-founder of Google, Page transformed information accessibility worldwide with innovations in searching and advertising.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

22. John of Gaunt (1340-1399) – $141.6 Billion

• Nationality: English
• Profession: Nobleman and Military Leader

John was the fourth son of King Edward III and was King Richard II’s regent. Gaunt was a key figure in the Hundred Years’ War and expanded his wealth through inheritance and marriage, influencing English politics and royal lineage.

He owned castles and estates across England and France. As Earl of Lancaster, he was the greatest landowner in the north of England. 

Source: The Richest of the Rich: The Wealthiest 250 People in Britain since 1066 by Philip Beresford and William D. Rubinstein

21. Warren Buffett (1930 to Present) – $143.3 Billion

Known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” he is the most successful value investor of the 20th century. He is the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, a multinational conglomerate holding company famous for its value investing approach and philanthropy. He has joined Bill Gates’ philanthropy pledges to give away 99% of his wealth.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

20. Stephen Girard (1750-1831) – $149.5 Billion

• Nationality: French-American
• Profession: Banker and philanthropist

Born in France, Girard made his wealth in the U.S. through shipping and banking. He saved the U.S. government from collapse during the War of 1812. He bought out the first Bank of the United States and renamed it the Bank of Stephen Girard. 

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

19. Richard Fitzalan 10th Earl of Arundel (1306-1376) – $151.4 Billion

• Nationality: English
• Profession: Nobleman and Military Leader

The 10th Earl of Arundel was an English nobleman and military leader. He fought in the Scottish Independence and the Hundred Years’ War. Fitzalan was influential in politics and military affairs, amassing wealth through land holdings and strategic marriages.

The Earl of Arundel is the oldest extant earldom and the oldest extant peerage in the Peerage of England.

Source: The Richest of the Rich: The Wealthiest 250 People in Britain since 1066 by Philip Beresford and William D. Rubinstein

18. John Jacob Astor (1763-1848) – $172.2 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Businessman and Investor

A German-American businessman, he became the first multi-millionaire in America as a merchant and investor. He used his money from trading furs from Canada to wealthy women in New York City to purchase vast amounts of real estate, contributing to the cityscape of New York. He was the first to create a trust in the U.S.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

17. Bernard Arnault (1949 – Present) – $172.8 Billion

• Nationality: French
• Profession: Business Magnate

Chairman and CEO of LVMH, Arnault leads the world’s largest luxury goods company, guiding growth in the fashion and retail industries.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

16. William de Warenne (1036-1088) – $187.8 Billion

• Nationality: Norman
• Profession: Nobleman and Military Leader

Known as the first Earl of Surrey, he was a Norman baron that fought alongside William the Conqueror at The Battle of Hastings in England. He was rewarded with numerous holdings and land grants, becoming one of the wealthiest landowners following the Norman Conquest.

Source: The Richest of the Rich: The Wealthiest 250 People in Britain since 1066 by Philip Beresford and William D. Rubinstein

15. Bill Gates (1955 to Present) – $191.2 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Business magnate and philanthropist

While the founder of Microsoft’s current net worth is $105.1 billion, his peak net worth was $101 billion in 1999 during the dotcom era. His wealth reached a zenith in 1999 during the dotcom boom with a net worth of $101 billion. When adjusted for inflation to 2024, this peak would be equivalent to $191.2 billion, positioning him as 15th on our list.

Gates has given close to $60 billion dollars away, substantially reducing his ranking among the wealthiest individuals. He has shifted focus to philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He is committed to giving 99% of his wealth to charity.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

14. Mark Zuckerburg (1984 – Present) – $198.3 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Entrepreneur and Business Magnate

Co-founder and CEO of Meta Platforms, Zuckerberg pioneered social networking globally, impacting how millions interact online. He continues to lead initiatives in technology innovation and philanthropy through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

13. Henry Ford (1863-1947) – $200 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Businessman and industrialist

He founded Ford Motor Company in 1903 and created the first affordable automobile for the middle class. As the creator of the modern assembly line, Ford revolutionized the automobile industry.

Ford’s wealth and success also allowed him to invest in numerous other ventures, including the development of Greenfield Village and the establishment of the Ford Foundation for philanthropic purposes, controlled by his family.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

12. Jeff Bezos (1964 – Present) – $205.8 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Entrepreneur and Business Magnate

Founder of Amazon, Bezos revolutionized online shopping and has become one of the most successful business figures in the modern era, leading initiatives in e-commerce and cloud computing. Additionally, Bezos is also known for his space exploration company, Blue Origin, and his philanthropic efforts through the Bezos Earth Fund. 

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

11. Marcus Licinius Crassus (115 BC-53 BC) – $209.4 billion

• Nationality: Roman
• Profession: Military General and Politician

Crassus was a Roman politician and general who, along with Julius Caesar and Pompeius Magnus, comprised the First Triumvirate. He gained his wealth through real estate (purchasing burning property and seizing property from criminals), slaves, and minerals. He is also known for crushing the slave uprising of Spartacus.

It is believed that Crassus’ net worth equaled the total annual budget of the Roman treasury. Some consider him to be the richest in history, but recent research shows the Roman currency may not be worth as thought. This puts him at number 11 on our list.

Source: Visual Capitalist

10. Larry Ellison (1944 – Present) – $211.7 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Entrepreneur and Business Magnate

Co-founder of Oracle Corporation, Ellison became a prominent figure in enterprise software development and amassed significant wealth through his role in the tech industry. Ellison has consistently been one of the highest-paid executives in the past two decades. 

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

9. Alan Rufus, 1st Lord of Richmond (1040-1089) – $244.7 Billion

• Nationality: Norman
• Profession: Nobleman and Military Leader

Known as “Alan the Red,” he was the nephew of William the Conqueror. Like William de Warenne, he fought alongside William at the Battle of Hastings. For his service and loyalty and quelling Saxon uprisings in the northern territories, he was rewarded with vast tracts of land totaling 250,000 acres across England.

Upon his death at the age of 53, Rufus’ fortune was 11,000 pounds, which is estimated to be 7% percent of the net national income of that era. Adjusted to 2024 dollars his wealth would be approximately $250 billion, putting him number 9 on the list. 

8. Cornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) – $263.4 Billion

Nicknamed “the Commodore,” Vanderbilt dominated the transportation industry. He made his wealth in the steamboat, shipping, and later the railroad industry. In addition to his vast wealth and business success, Vanderbilt also left a significant legacy through his philanthropic efforts, including donating millions of dollars towards establishing Vanderbilt University.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

7. Heshen (1750-1799) – $270 Billion

Born Shanbao, Heshen belonged to the Manchu Niohuru clan and served as a prominent official in the Qing dynasty, gaining the favor of the Qianlong Emperor. Through his position, he accumulated vast wealth through methods such as extortion, corruption, and embezzlement of public funds. Heshen’s actions significantly weakened the Qing Dynasty.

At the height of his power, Heshen’s wealth was estimated to be equivalent to 15 years of imperial revenue. Official records, potentially exaggerated by his adversaries, documented the wealth seized from him as including 2,790 rooms in his estates and mansions, 12,000 acres of land, 20 bank and pawnbroker branches, 58,000 taels of pure gold, and much more. 

Heshen’s fortunes, valued at an estimated 1.1 billion taels of silver, would equate to approximately USD $270 billion today, ranking him as the seventh richest individual in history. 

Source: The Search for Modern China: A Documentary Collection Third Edition by Jonathan D. Spence Janet Chen, Pei-kai Cheng, Michael Lestz; Britannica

6. Elon Musk (1968 – Present) – $274.7 Billion

• Nationality: South African/American
• Profession: Entrepreneur and Business Magnate

Founder of Tesla, SpaceX, and other innovative companies, Elon Musk has become one of the wealthiest individuals in the world due to his ventures into clean energy and space exploration. He was the first person to be worth more than $300 billion. Although his wealth has since fluctuated, Musk remains the world’s richest living person by a significant margin.

While he hasn’t made it into the top five richest people in history yet, his work in technology and sustainability might eventually earn him a spot with these famous individuals in the future. As of now, his wealth puts him in the 6th spot.

Source: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires

5. Mir Osman Ali Khan (1886-1967) – $291.6 billion

Source: Time Magazine, The Business Standard

4.  Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) – $439.8 Billion

• Nationality: American
• Profession: Steel Magnate

Carnegie, a poor Scottish immigrant, made his riches in the steel industry. Founder of Carnegie Steel Company, which later became U.S. Steel Corporation, Andrew Carnegie is another prime example of a Gilded Age business tycoon.

He sold his company to JP Morgan in 1901 for $480 million and then devoted his life to philanthropy, giving away most of his wealth. During the last 18 years of his life, he donated over $350 million (close to $7 billion in 2024 dollars) and founded Carnegie Hall, Carnegie Mellon University, and many other philanthropic causes.

Source: All The Money In The World by Peter W. Bernstein and Annalyn Swan

3. John D. Rockefeller (1839-1937) – $477.5 Billion

2. Jakob Fugger (1459-1525) – $484.4 Billion

• Nationality: German
• Profession: Merchant and banker

Known as “The Rich,” Fugger was a German merchant, miner, and banker in Europe. He lent money to Charles V so he could become Holy Roman Emperor. In return, Fugger maintained his mining monopoly of copper and silver. 

By the time he passed away in 1525, he was worth about $484 billion in today’s money. This amount was roughly 2% of the entire European economy back then. Today, the total GDP of Europe’s 50 countries is about $24.22 trillion.

Source: The Richest Man Who Ever Lived: The Life and Times of Jacob Fugger by Greg Steinmetz

1. Mansa Musa I (1280-1337) – $500+ Billion

• Nationality: Malian
• Profession: Emperor of the Mali Empire

Known as the “king of kings”, Munsa ruled the Malian Empire (modern-day Mali, Timbuktu, and Ghana). His wealth came from producing gold and salt, which at the time accounted for 50% of the world’s supply. Most historians agree that while he may be the richest man in history, his exact wealth is hard to pin down.

During his pilgrimage to Mecca, he brought 60,000 people and 12,000 slaves, all carrying gold. He spent so much time in Egypt that it caused a national currency crisis that took years to recover. After his death, his wealth was significantly depleted due to civil wars and incursions by invading forces.

Source: BBC.com, Independent, Celebrity Net Worth

Honorable Mention

In addition to the richest people in history, these are leaders and rulers of their countries that were well-known for their wealth. 

Solomon (970 BC-931 BC) – $2.5+ Trillion

Need proof of his wealth? He had 1,000 wives – 700 concubines and 300 princesses! Anyone that many wives clearly needs to be rich! Since he ruled for 40 years and received 25 tons of gold a year, just the gold alone in today’s value would be over $2 trillion dollars!

Genghis Khan (1162-1227) – Trillions! 

Born as Temujin, he became the leader of the largest contiguous empire in history. It stretched from Korea and China to Europe, which was almost five million square miles of land. Under his sons, the Mongol Empire grew even moe to 11 to 12 million square miles, roughly the size of Africa.

Although he was known to be ruthless to his enemies, he was very generous to his loyal subjects and friends. Unlike conquering armies before, his armies were banned from personal looting. Everything was inventoried and distributing evenly.

He didn’t hoard his wealth which was one of the secrets to his success! Also by uniting the East and West, he is credited for promoting science, arts, law, international trade, and many other advancements.  He was known to be a very tolerant ruler, religiously and politically.

Augustus Caesar (63 BC-14 AD) – $5.67 trillion

Born Gaius Octavius, he was Julies Caesar’s grand-nephew and heir as his adopted son. His reign Augustus initiated an era of relative peace known as the Pax Romana (The Roman Peace). He dramatically enlarged the Roman Empire, annexing Egypt, expanded possessions in Africa, expanded into Germany, and completed the conquest of Spain.

As the first Roman emperor, he led the transformation of Rome from republic to empire and accounted for 25% to 30% of the world’s economic output. His personal wealth was equivalent to one-fifth of his empire’s economy, personally owning all of Egypt.

Nikolai Alexandrovich Romanov (1868-1918) – $400 Billion

Nicolas II was the last Tsar and monarch of Russia, ruling over the Russian Empire from 1894 to 1917. Most of his wealth tied up in the state, but also displayed in magnificent palaces, jewellery, gold, and works of art. Bolshevik revolutionists overthrew his government in 1918, killing him and his family. He was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church, making him the richest saint in history.

William the Conqueror (1027-1087) – $280 Billion

In 1066, William of Normandy, also known as William the Conqueror, became the first Norman King of England. He successfully invaded England in The Battle of Hastings, altering the course of history and making the country the most powerful in Europe. He built his wealth by consolidating his kingdoms.

The Medici Family (1027-1087) – $171.6 Billion

The family earned its wealth through commerce and banking. The family is well-known for its support of the arts and humanities during the Renaissance in Florence, making it the cultural center of Europe.

The Medicis produced four popes, supported artists such as Leonardo da Vince, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.

The Rothschild Family (1577-Present) – $465.6 Billion

The Jewish German family dominated banking and finance in Europe, becoming one of the most powerful and richest families in the 19th century.

Mayer Rothschild’s five sons established and expanded an international banking system in London, Paris, Vienna, Naples, and Frankfurt. They are the richest family in history, with some estimating the family combined owns $1 trillion in real estate and banking assets.

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Before you jump into development, it’s important to determine whether your idea is really worth pursuing. The first step is to understand the value of your app and what makes it successful.

In this article, we’ll look at the key things to consider to help you decide if your app idea is worth taking further. Let’s get started!

The Importance of Execution

A great idea is only as valuable as its execution. No matter how innovative your app concept is, success depends on how well you bring it to life. The execution involves critical factors such as timing, design, development, marketing, and monetization—all of which contribute to the app’s overall success. You can click here to learn more about why execution is so crucial and how it can significantly impact the value of your app idea. Without strong execution, even the best ideas can fall flat, while well-executed projects can turn even simple ideas into massive successes.

To ensure your app reaches its full potential, consider partnering with app development experts who can guide you through the process and help you execute your idea flawlessly.

Market Research and Feasibility

Before moving forward with your project, it’s crucial to understand the market you’re entering. Researching the target audience and current trends will give you insights into what people need and what’s already available. Knowing your competitors is equally important; understanding their strengths and weaknesses can help you position your product more effectively.

Once you’ve gathered market information, the next step is assessing whether your project is possible. This means looking at both the technical and financial aspects. Can your concept be built with the current technology? Do you have the budget to see it through?

A thorough feasibility study will help you answer these questions and determine whether moving forward with development is practical. This step ensures that you’re inspired and prepared for the challenges ahead.

User Experience and Design

Creating a product that people love starts with prioritizing user experience. A user-friendly design and an intuitive interface ensure users can easily navigate and enjoy what you’ve built. Even the most innovative features can be overlooked if your design is confusing or hard to use.

A well-thought-out design can make all the difference. It not only attracts users but also keeps them coming back. Your product’s layout, colors, and overall feel should be inviting and simple to use. Remember, if users need help understanding or interacting with your design, they will likely move on to something else. A focus on user experience can be the deciding factor in your product’s success.

Partnering with the Right Team

Choosing the right development team is crucial to bringing your vision to life. A team that truly understands your goals can make all the difference in how your project turns out. It’s important to partner with experts who have technical skills and share your passion for the project.

Professional services can help transform your concept into a fully functional product.

Working closely with the development team is vital to success. Open communication and collaboration ensure that your ideas are fully understood and expertly executed, resulting in a final product that meets or even exceeds your expectations.

Cost and Monetization Strategies

When planning your project, it’s important to understand the development costs. Several factors can influence the overall budget, including the complexity of the features, the design requirements, and the platforms you want to support (iOS, Android, or both).

Custom designs, advanced functionalities, and integration with other systems can drive up costs. Additionally, the team you choose to work with—in-house, freelancers, or an external development agency—will also impact the budget.

Understanding these costs upfront helps set realistic financial expectations and avoid surprises down the road. Once you have a clear picture of the costs, you can begin to consider how to recoup your investment through effective monetization strategies.

Conclusion

Bringing your concept to life involves more than a great idea; it’s about making smart decisions every step of the way. From market research to designing a great user experience, each element is vital. Choosing the right dev team is critical. It will execute your vision. Also, know the costs and pick a good monetization strategy.

The post Is Your App Idea Worth Pursuing? Key Factors to Consider Before Development appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

You’ve hired a firm to create your brand. You’ve invested a small fortune in a well-crafted website. But without a solid online presence, you’re invisible. You might fail as a concept if you don’t learn why digital marketing is essential to your overall business strategy early on.

Digital marketing visibility is your key to success. A digital marketing strategy should start and end to convert visitors into business. Yet conversion isn’t just about sales.

What Does Conversion Mean?

Online conversion is about converting a website visitor into a desired action. It might be about making a sale, getting a visitor to fill out a form, or subscribing to a newsletter.

Every business needs traffic; it’s the only way to grow online. Optimizing your conversion rate uses a data-driven approach to growth. It removes the guesswork and allows you to develop a step-by-step strategy to increase business.

Conversion rate analytics and optimization are the core of your growth strategy. They show how visitors interact with your online presence and where your weaknesses lie, allowing you to test for effectiveness. The more you know, the more you can correct and optimize until you see better results.

Why Conversions Matter

Want more business? Increase your traffic. But not just any traffic will do. If you try to sell steaks to a vegan audience, no amount of traffic will increase conversions.

That’s why conversion rate analytics can help boost your profits. Through trial and error, you can find ways to reach your audience more effectively, giving them more of what they want.

Conversion rates:

• Save you money: Higher conversion rates bring in more potential buyers without increasing your ad budget. Sometimes, you can reduce your ad budget without cutting into profits, giving you leftover cash for testing new tactics.
• Improve your online presence: Watching prospect movement lets you discover your website weaknesses. Do they bounce on specific pages? Do they abandon you at certain points in your sales funnel? When you see it, you can fix it.
• Optimize resource allocation: By analyzing conversion rates, you can identify which marketing channels, campaigns, or tactics generate the highest ROI. This allows you to allocate your budget and resources more effectively, focusing on strategies that deliver the best results and avoiding wasted spending on underperforming initiatives.
• Predict future success: Analytics can show you where your most robust conversions come from. With testing, you can make minor adjustments and see how they impact your campaigns. It provides honest assessments with the capability to correct along the way.
• Build customer loyalty: Analytical insights can help create a positive and memorable customer experience from the initial interaction to post-purchase support. Satisfied customers are more likely to become repeat buyers, brand advocates, and promoters through word-of-mouth recommendations and positive reviews, ultimately driving long-term profitability and business growth.

Digital Marketing Strategies to Boost Conversion Rates

Digital marketing is essential; some argue it’s the only way to grow a business today. But most digital marketers will tell you that playing with conversion rate data can drive your business to new heights.

What if you started personalizing your calls to action? Hubspot recently analyzed and compared more than 330,000 CTAs over six months and discovered that personalization converted 202 percent better than more generic CTAs.

What if you could get more business simply by changing a few words? Or having different approaches? Would it motivate you to refine your digital marketing tactics? You can boost conversion rates by:

• Sharpening your ads: Copy isn’t something that just anyone can write, nor can it be written by AI. Conversions come when you are home on what works and what doesn’t.
• Optimizing landing pages: Follow through on ad copy promises and refine landing pages to engage with visitors immediately.
• Selecting channels carefully: Sometimes, a wider audience isn’t superior. Instead, it’s about optimizing your results for each channel you choose.
• Testing new funnels: Speak directly to your audience, creating clear and concise journeys for specific needs.

When Conversion Rates Aren’t Enough

Conversion rates may be one of the top metrics to follow and interpret but don’t let them become too important in your journey. Digital marketing is always about the journey, not the destination. Sometimes, the most essential part of that journey may be the things the data isn’t showing. Data can even mislead or fail to provide a complete picture of performance.

• Low sample size: Conversion rates may fluctuate wildly if you don’t have a large enough statistical sample.
• Incomplete data: Don’t become too focused on one outcome. Focusing on sales conversions, for example, might overlook actions like sign-ups, which may produce more significant conversions.
• Irrelevant traffic: This can be a big problem with social media. It could skew your data if you’re going viral and receiving a lot of outside traffic that will never convert.
• Complex customer journeys: Not every business has a quick conversion turnaround. Sometimes, you can build sales funnels that take weeks, months, or even years to develop a relationship and convert it to business.
• Seasonal variations: Not every business is a 24/7/365 sales machine. Holidays, specific events, and seasonal events can all significantly impact conversion rates. It would be best to track this yearly to avoid misleading conclusions about performance.
• Technical issues: Website downtime, slow loading times, or even payment processing errors can cause technical mistakes in your tracking efforts. These issues can artificially inflate bounce rates or lower conversion rates without reflecting the effectiveness of your digital marketing efforts.

Why Digital Marketing Is Important

Getting deep insight into your overall customer journey is most important in digital marketing. Partnering with experts like InnoVision Marketing Group can help you bypass the learning curve associated with making digital marketing work and gain expert guidance in finding solutions built to last.

The more you know, the better you can serve your audience. And isn’t that what makes digital marketing effective in the first place?

The post From Visibility to Conversion: Why Digital Marketing Is Important appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

Here’s how to make your shipping practices more eco-friendly and smart for your business.

1. Choose Sustainable Packaging

One of the most significant steps in eco-friendly shipping is selecting sustainable packaging materials. Traditional packaging often relies on plastics and other non-recyclable materials contributing to environmental pollution. Instead, opt for recycled cardboard, biodegradable plastics, or compostable mailers. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of packaging used by selecting appropriately sized boxes and minimizing filler material.

Efficient packaging reduces waste and decreases shipping costs by lowering the weight and volume of shipments.

2. Optimize Shipping Routes

Optimizing shipping routes is another effective way to reduce the environmental impact of your deliveries. Route optimization software can help you plan the most efficient paths for your deliveries, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Consolidating shipments and using multi-modal transportation options (combining road, rail, and sea transport) can enhance efficiency.

Collaborate with carriers prioritizing eco-friendly practices and having a robust sustainability policy; you can find the right carriers on shiply.com.

3. Implement Carbon Offsetting

Carbon offsetting involves compensating for your company’s carbon emissions by investing in environmental projects such as reforestation, renewable energy, or carbon capture initiatives.

Many logistics companies offer carbon-neutral shipping options that allow businesses to offset the emissions generated by their deliveries. While reducing emissions at the source is the primary goal, carbon offsetting immediately balances your environmental impact.

Highlighting your carbon offset efforts can also enhance your brand’s image among eco-conscious consumers.

4. Adopt Reusable and Returnable Packaging

Implementing reusable and returnable packaging systems can significantly reduce waste and resource consumption. For instance, using durable containers that customers can return for reuse can minimize the need for single-use packaging. Customer incentives to return packaging, such as discounts or loyalty points, can encourage participation.

This practice reduces waste and fosters a positive relationship with customers who appreciate your commitment to sustainability.

5. Educate and Engage Customers

Engaging your customers in your eco-friendly shipping efforts is crucial for success. Communicate your sustainability initiatives through your website, social media, and packaging inserts. Educate customers on contributing by recycling packaging or opting for consolidated shipments. Offering eco-friendly shipping options at checkout—even with a small additional cost—can empower customers to make environmentally responsible choices. Transparent communication about your sustainability practices can build trust and loyalty among your customer base.

To Conclude

Embracing eco-friendly shipping practices is a smart move for any business. These practices benefit the planet, enhance your brand’s reputation, and lead to cost savings.

As more consumers prioritize sustainability, your commitment to eco-friendly shipping can set your business apart and contribute to a greener future.

The post How to Be Smart with Eco-Friendly Shipping in Your Business appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

Should I Get a Personal Loan at a Credit Union or Bank?

Personal loans are a popular borrowing option; choosing where to get your loan is almost as important as the loan itself. Two types of financial institutions are likely to attract your interest: credit unions and banks. A little research can help you choose which financial institution makes the most sense for your goals and budget.

However, before you choose a financial institution, you need to know your loan options and find a loan that aligns with your financial goals. Your needs are unique, so taking the time to understand those needs and make an informed decision is essential. Keep reading for information about personal loans, the differences between credit unions and banks, and how to decide which financial option is right for you.

What Kind of Loan Will I Need?

Understanding your loan needs will help you decide which financial institution offers your preferred services, products, and programs. Personal loans are a popular option because of their versatility. A personal loan can help you achieve various goals, including making home improvements, consolidating debt, paying tuition, or even taking a vacation.

Personal loans differ from lines of credit in that with a personal loan, you receive the entire approved amount up front. You then pay it back through fixed payments and interest rates. With a line of credit, you’re approved for a set amount, but you can borrow smaller portions of the total as needed, and how much you borrow and how soon you repay it determines your payment amount.

Another factor to consider is interest rates. Some personal loans, such as those from credit unions, offer competitively low interest rates compared to loans or lines of credit from other financial institutions, such as banks. This brings us to our main point: there are several similarities between banks and credit unions, but there are also some key differences, and you should consider these when choosing your lender.

What Is a Credit Union?

A credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution that allows its members to borrow from the pooled deposits of all members at an often-discounted rate. Credit unions act as financial cooperatives owned by their members. Your local credit union will likely comprise holdings from people in your community, neighborhood, or workplace.

Acquiring a personal loan from a credit union is typically a simple process, and often, they come with lower interest rates than loans from banks. These low interest rates are available because credit unions turn over any profits made to their members, who act as shareholders. In short, credit unions can give lower interest rates because they exist to service and support members instead of stockholders.

What Is a Bank?

Like a credit union, a bank is a financial institution that accepts deposits and approves loans. Banks are for-profit financial institutions with wide networks that allow them to offer a large variety of products, services, and locations. Banks’ Customers are more likely to find a branch outside their neighborhood if they need to travel but still want access to a branch. Accessibility and extensive products and services are often crucial to customers who choose a bank for their financial needs, although interest rates may be less competitive and fees higher.

How Are Credit Unions and Banks Similar?

Banks and credit unions share many similarities. For starters, they are both financial institutions that provide banking services to members and customers. Other similarities are the kinds of products and services offered. Both institutions provide checking and savings accounts, a variety of loan programs, and investment products for members and customers.

Additionally, credit unions and banks are federally insured by US government agencies, meaning that members of credit unions and customers of banks have insurance from the government that their funds are safe and secure. Credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration, or NCUA, a federal agency that monitors credit unions and assures members their funds are safe and available. Banks are regulated and monitored by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC.

What’s the Difference Between a Credit Union and a Bank?

The differences between a credit union and a bank are essential before choosing where to get your loan. As stated above, credit unions are smaller, locally owned, not-for-profit cooperatives where interest rates tend to be lower, and profits are passed down to members who act as shareholders.

On the other hand, banks are for-profit institutions with large networks and invested stockholders focused on profiting from bank earnings. They offer a wide range of financial services and locations while being less localized. In addition, customers are not members or shareholders.

Where Should Your Personal Loan Come From?

Now that you know the similarities and differences between credit unions and banks, you can see how these two institutions fit within your goals and lifestyle. If you travel extensively for work or recreation, a smaller, local credit union back home may not be your best option. You’re likely to prefer a bank with several branches across the region or country, even if it means a less personalized touch and less control over profits and investment decisions made by stockholders.

If it’s vital that your money stays in your community and connects you to your neighbors or coworkers, then a credit union personal loan is more likely to fit your needs and convictions. The lower interest rates and more personalized service at your local credit union will likely attract you.

Choosing the right financial institution is essential and worth the time it may take to educate yourself on your options. Look into the services offered, branch locations, and eligibility for membership at the institutions near you. For example, Mid-Hudson Valley Credit Union offers membership to anyone in Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, or Sullivan Counties in New York. When choosing a credit union or bank for your personal loan needs, these details can make all the difference.

The post Should I Get a Personal Loan at a Credit Union or Bank? appeared first on The Art of Thinking SMART.

Technology is transforming how humans get their work done. Whether you’re a busy entrepreneur or making headway through your career, technology can help you to:

• Organize your work in more innovative and more time-efficient ways.
• Reach any goals you have.

As an entrepreneur or a professional forging your career path, embracing technology is a way to achieve these goals. This article highlights the essential tech tools you should use to maximize efficiency.

Scheduling Software

If you constantly miss deadlines and forget important tasks, it’s time to incorporate scheduling software into your routine. This tool will help you plan your days effectively, provide reminders for vital tasks and meetings, and ensure you’re always ahead of your schedule.

For example, if you work from home, you can use your scheduling software to set automatic ‘take a break’ reminders during the day. Most remote workers take at least one break, which is usually somewhere between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. However, having smaller breaks throughout the day is useful to keep productivity high.

During your work breaks, you can recharge your batteries and have some fun, such as by playing online pokies, which is a big hit with mature workers. You can play popular games like slots and online roulette on your PC or smartphone until your break ends. Plus, JackpotCity Casino is one of the most trusted online casinos around (with official SSL certification), so you can enjoy all of their online casino games knowing your account and gambling funds are safe.

Regarding the scheduling software you use, hundreds of options are on the market. Don’t know which scheduling software to use? No problem! Here are some suggestions:

• Calendly
• Google Calendar
• Square

Whatever scheduling software you decide to use, make sure you take a little bit of time to understand the different in-app features so that you can get the most out of it. Once you start using your scheduling software, you’ll find you’re much more organized regarding your work.

OneDrive

Microsoft’s OneDrive is another excellent piece of technology that you can use to organize your work and achieve more goals. OneDrive is especially useful if you’re constantly working from different locations, as it enables you to synchronize and share your files from any location, providing an internet connection. Not to mention, OneDrive also makes it easy to organize your files into separate folders so that your storage doesn’t become cluttered when producing many Word and Excel documents.

Google Drive

If OneDrive doesn’t tick the right boxes for you, then Google Drive is the next best application to try.

With Google Drive, you get a free 15GB of storage that you can pay to expand at any time. Google Drive can do anything if you want to store important documents or images and videos. You can also use Google Docs simultaneously, which is essentially Google’s version of Microsoft Word that you don’t have to pay for.

It’s also worth mentioning that Google Drive has a handy feature that enables you to convert PDFs to editable documents within seconds. If you regularly deal with PDFs, you’ll no doubt appreciate this feature, as it’ll make your life much easier.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is excellent for organizing your work and reaching work goals, especially if you have several colleagues with whom you regularly need to communicate and collaborate.

Through Microsoft Teams, you can:

• Hold one-to-one chats via direct messaging
• Create group chats
• Share files and documents
• Conduct video conferences (either one-to-one or group conferences)
• Create a list of tasks you need to complete

It has all the features you would want and more, making it the perfect application for those who work in offices or from home.

Work Tablet

Over recent years, many workers and university students have started to ditch traditional PCs and laptops and switch to work tablets instead.

Essentially, a work tablet is a computer tablet designed for completing important work. It’ll usually come with a keyboard attached to the case (or be compatible with most Bluetooth keyboards on the market). Once set up, you can type and organize your work just like you normally would, except you can now do everything via touchscreen, which is great for overall organization.

When you look for a work tablet, you’ll see plenty of iPads and Windows Tablets on the market. If you’re already an iOS user, buying an iPad, such as the iPad Pro 2022, is recommended to stay in the ecosystem. Alternatively, if you’re an Android user, you should investigate the best one for your specific purposes.

Remember, if the tablet you choose doesn’t come with a mouse or keyboard, make sure you buy some Bluetooth-compatible ones. This way, you’ll be able to connect your mouse and keyboard to the tablet and use it as if it were a laptop.

Final Thoughts

From scheduling software to Microsoft Teams, plenty of tools and applications in the technology world are specifically designed to help you better organize your work and achieve work-related goals. No matter which specific industry you’re active in, all of the teology discussed above will help you reach a higher level in terms of efficiency and overall work standards.v

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