Why Haven't we Shortened the Work Week yet?

Hard work is a beautiful thing.

The ability, the willpower, the honesty. Work is something that is 9 times outta 10 unavoidable. So why do we make it out to be such a difficult chore? Sure, work isn't meant to be completely fun (is anything?), but there has got to be better ways as to how to deal with the work week.

I've wrote a couple of articles expressing my disdain about the length of the average work week, vacation time, rests, etc. But one thing I simply cannot understand is why we (for the most part) engage in an extremely strenuous 40+ hours a week? Should we work less? No- we should work smarter. Or both!

This is you, isn't it? (source)

Of course, I looked online to see what other people had to say, and I found many arguments for the shorter work week. The individual mentioned in this New York Times article talks about how a shorter work week was implemented at his firm, and in turn? They wound up doing better work! Here, see for yourself:

"For example, from May through October, we switch to a four-day workweek. And not 40 hours crammed into four days, but 32 hours comfortably fit into four days...

but there’s one surprising effect of the changed schedule: better work gets done in four days than in five...less time to work, you waste less time." 

(source)

Remember sleep? Me either. (source)

 

Humans work. That's what we do. Most modern culture has adopted insane work schedules because there is stuff to be done, and bills to be paid. But if keeping our noses to the grindstone has become so indicative of human culture, why not adopt a plan to optimize the very thing we let govern our lives?

Like I said, the idea of a shorter work week is catching on domestic and abroad. Gambia, a nation in Africa, tried the idea. However, they still work the 40 hour week. The UK, the Netherlands, all dabbled in the idea- take a look. And like with my previous example, a shorter work week with more rest makes for better work. Look at this quote taken straight from the article: 

"...Monday mornings people aren't so groggy - they hit the ground running. We have really tight deadlines, it's very collaborative, we try to squeeze as much into our days as possible."  (source) 

We all know it's true. (source)

Unfortunately, not all companies can shortern their work week. And if they do, they must be available for emergencies, but businesses with normal(ish) circumstances and business plans should be able to adopt this method. 

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Humans have to rest. Work is good. Yes. It is rewarding, it builds character, it gets you money, it gives you confidence, the list goes on and on. But we always forget that there is so much more to life than just making the next buck, or working an extra day. 

Our time on this planet in finite. Why should we have to spend any more time tired and stressed than we have to?

How to be a Better Conversationalist in Business

Conversation is an art that is starting to fall out of style.

In the short amount of time I've spent on this rock, I've come to learn a few fundamental truths. One I've observed is that conversation manners, or more specifically, the lack of, has atrophied. In all the time we spend on e-mail, text, or any number of different outlets for our thoughts and dreams, we've forgotten how to talk to each other.

Doing business is a conversation. It's a dialogue that combines numerous facets to form an entire, hopefully functional, business relationships between two parties. More often than not, I've noticed that much resentment builds from not being heard. Do I mean that everyone needs attention 100% of the time? No. But there is a clear time when being polite is easy, and its this comfortable lull that dulls our ability to formulate sharp, concise sentences to exchange from one another.

Wanna get more out of the people you talk to (business and personal)? Try these steps:

1. Shut the frick up and LISTEN. Do not talk over the person you are having a conversation with. Address them with constant eye contact, breaking only to mind minor things (a cough, an itchy nose, etc). They'll know that you're listening, and they'll be more apt to listen to you. Well, at least they should be.

2. Wait to talk. There are times when interruption is necessary, and sometimes inevitable. But for all other times, if you aren't talking and someone else is, don't wait for the exact second to say your piece. This folds in with tip number one, too: don't prepare what you're gonna say while they're talking- you won't be listening. Formulate an opinion after they are done.

3. Compromise. Conversation is an exchange between two people. Whether heated, jovial, or casual, this cannot be denied. With that fact in mind, don't be so quick to prove your point. Better yet, don't be stubborn either. Be willful. Be mindful. And pick your battles. Compromise is a beautiful thing if you can understand what the other person wants. Once you satisfy their needs in the business exchange, you can satisfy your own company's.

4. Ignoring isn't an Option. When talking with someone whose opinion may not matter, or perhaps they didn't understand something, you perhaps they are getting lost in the conversation between several individuals. Don't ignore. Ignoring people gets you labeled as such, and it's incredibly rude. Am I saying you need to write an essay and submit it before the conversation is over? No. But a little acknowledgement can go a long way.

5. Include Everyone (where applicable). If you are talking to a group of people, don't focus on who you think is the "key" individual. Addressing a group requires you to include the individuals of that group. Let your eyes scan the room. If they are asking a question politely, respond to them personally. If you are spouting out information that is pertinent to everyone you are addressing, then you should be trying to make eye contact with everyone. Conversation is more about consideration than anything else. Don't be a jerk.

Everyone likes a person with good manners and who is considerate and inclusive in their mannerisms and social interactions. Especially in business. It is essential to listen to your client's needs, and then provide a concise, honest solution that you can both benefit from.

Honesty and manners go a long way in this world. Are you ready to follow them?

Vacations, Staycations, and Relaxations

Usually this blog is pretty heavy in regards to content, so I want to lighten the mood. Summer is almost over, but there is still time to go and have a terrific vacation. I did some research on the Internet- looking for popular spots and interesting destinations.

Of course, summer usually means the beach, so I wanted to do some snoopin' on good beach locations that you and yours can enjoy. I found one site that listed some popular beaches. These are not exactly a three hour drive from home (well, it could be! I don't know where you live), but they are special nonetheless. I found another article that listed some more...local? Shall we say? Beach towns that you and your family can enjoy. I also hear that they're not ultra-expensive.

Maybe you're not the beach goer? Okay then. Honestly, neither am I! So I ventured out into the wilds of the Internet to hunt down some more interesting spots. I found a site that just listed a whole bunch of cool places (several of which I've been to) you and your brood can visit. Some destinations on the list included:

1. The Galapagos Islands
This is one of the most magical and incredible places I have ever been in my entire life. Definitely for the animal lover, snorkeler, and scuba diver, you can book a vacation there through G Adventures, the company my wife and I used when we went there for our honeymoon. G Adventures is a terrific company that answers all your questions, provides stellar customer service, and is willing to work with you to find the perfect spot. If you wanna go to the Galapagos, be ready to see incredible animals that are literally INCHES away from you (like Albatross, Blue Footed Boobies, Frigate Birds and MORE), and unbelievable aquatic life (Sea Lions, Tropical Fish, Hammerhead Sharks, and MORE). Definitely worth a visit.

2. Cape Cod
Also a beautiful place. Make sure you go during the on season in the summer. It is really boring any other time. Anyway, Cape Cod is beautiful. There is a gorgeous coastline, dozens of seafood places to chow down on, and many tourist spots. It's a great place to share with your family.

But hey. Vacation isn't all about the kids, right? ANY of these places can be awesome whether its just you, or you and 15 members of your family. And for those of you who can't get away from home, the Staycation is becoming quite popular. Here's a website with some ideas, and another article that lists some cool places and activities you can do that are affordable, and easy.

Vacations aren't about the destination though. Sure, who doesn't like to get away?! But a vacation is mostly mental. You must let yourself relax, and enjoy whatever you may be experiencing! Remember, a vacation starts in your head. Your body merely follows.

BE SAFE AND HAVE FUN!!!