Celeste Elle, Author at MoneyDigest.sg

Handling challenging conversations: How to communicate layoffs with empathy

Let’s face it: layoffs are never easy.

But when done with thought, they can be a little less traumatic for those affected.

In this article, we will share some tips on how to handle layoffs more compassionately. We will also provide some resources that might help make the process a little easier for everyone involved.

Be prepared for the conversation

When you’re preparing to communicate layoffs, remember that the conversation will be tough for both you and your employees.

Have all the facts at your fingertips and think about your delivery. This is not a time to pass blame or criticize anyone. Your goal is to communicate the news in a way that is respectful and empathetic.

Explain job loss with compassion

Start by explaining the situation straightforwardly without shying away from facts.

Remember that your employees are likely worried about their future and their families. Reassure them that you’re doing everything you can to help them through this tough time.

Be honest about the company’s situation and what led to the layoffs. Let your employees know that it’s not their fault and that you appreciate their hard work. Offer them resources like outplacement services or career counseling to help them transition into their next role.

Acknowledge and validate feelings

Image Credits: theladders.com

You’re dealing with people. People have feelings. People have families. People have mortgages, student loans, and bills to pay.

Acknowledging and validating the feelings of the people you’re about to let go of is one of the most basic things you can do as a leader. It shows that you understand what they’re going through, and it helps to soften the blow a little.

Give adequate time to the conversation

When it comes to communicating a layoff, the last thing you want to do is rush through it. We encourage you to give yourself and your employees adequate time for conversations. They deserve plenty of time to process and ask questions.

You don’t have to be in each other’s presence for hours, but we suggest at least 30 minutes of conversation that allows room for emotions and reflection before saying goodbye—especially if you have worked together for many years.

This method also sends a strong message that you are still invested in their well-being despite the unfortunate news. Giving a person enough time can make them feel less neglected and ensure closure.

Provide resources to help cope with the change

Provide information about counseling services or financial resources available to them, such as severance packages or job placement assistance.

These resources can help ease the transition for them and provide them with a sense of security, knowing that you are invested in their success even beyond your own business.

Having access to online learning communities, such as webinars or workshops on how to adjust to the new change could be beneficial. Additionally, if you have business contacts that you can direct them to, offer those as well.

Providing tangible support they can use immediately makes the whole process less intimidating and help individuals be in control of their situation.

When you’re handling a challenging conversation like layoffs, be as empathetic as possible. Show that you understand how challenging this is for the other person, and be direct and honest with them. Explain the situation clearly and help them to see how this decision was made. It’s also good to give them some time to process the information and answer any questions they may have. Thank them for their understanding and let them know that you appreciate their contributions thus far.

Strategies for surviving your next long-haul flight

Flying can be tiring, especially when it’s a long-haul flight. But it doesn’t have to be unbearable.

With a little bit of preparation and some handy tips, you can make your next long-haul flight more endurable and maybe even enjoyable. Time to arrive at your destination feeling fresh and relaxed!

Choose the right seat

When it comes to long-haul flights, the key to survival is comfort. And the best way to ensure comfort is to choose the right seat.

There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting your seat: first, think about your needs. If you need extra legroom, choose a seat towards the front of the plane. If you want to be close to the lavatories, then pick a seat in the middle or back of the plane.

Second, take into account your personal preferences. Some people prefer to be near the window, while others find it claustrophobic. Some people like to be near the aisle so they can get up and stretch more easily, while others prefer not to have anyone climbing over them during the flight.

Third, consider your travel companions. If you’re traveling with someone else, make sure you select seats that are comfortable for both of you to interact and communicate.

Stay hydrated on board

Water, water, water. It’s the key to staying hydrated during your flight and any time you’re traveling.

When you’re on a long-haul flight, your environment is incredibly dry, and that can zap the moisture from your skin and leave you feeling dehydrated.

Drinking plenty of fluids will help counteract that, so make sure to bring a refillable water bottle with you on board. You can also ask the flight attendant for a cup of water, or purchase a bottle in-flight. Keep sipping on fluids throughout your flight; you will feel better hydrated and comfier overall.

Bring activities for mental stimulation

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Don’t underestimate the importance of mental stimulation during long-haul flights. It may not seem like much but it can help keep you engaged and entertained throughout the flight.

You could bring a good book or puzzles to work on. There’s also usually a good selection of movies available on flights, and some airlines even offer virtual reality headsets to help pass time. Whatever activity you choose, make sure it’s something that will keep your attention for hours at a time.

If you like listening to music or podcasts, then bring along your headphones and create your favorite playlists before you take off. Not only will it give your mind something to focus on but the music can also help reduce travel anxiety.

You could even try learning a new language if you have enough time—download an app like Duolingo for offline use and you’re all set!

Make sure to get sufficient rest before your flight

Lastly, get yourself well-rested before take-off. Sure, the idea of catching up on some sleep onboard sounds awesome, but those little airplane seats are far from comfy for many, and sleeping in them can be challenging.

To get a good night’s sleep before a long flight, create a bedtime ritual and stick to it for a week. Turn off all electronics an hour before bedtime, read a book to help you wind down, and keep your bedroom quiet and dark. Also make sure to limit caffeine, alcohol, and sugar intake before going to bed as this can impact your ability to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep.

You could also try out some relaxing breathing exercises or meditation practices right before going to sleep. This can help calm your mind and body so that you’re better able to relax and more likely to get yourself tuned into the restful zone while onboard.

As we close, know that long-haul flights don’t have to be as bad as you think. By following the abovementioned simple tips, you can make your next long-haul flight more bearable. And who knows, you might even enjoy it!

Starting again: How to ease back into exercising post-pregnancy

You’ve finally done it!

You’ve given birth to the most beautiful baby in the world. But now the hard part begins: getting your body back into shape.

Below are a few tips on easing back into exercising post-pregnancy. Just take it one step at a time, and before you know it, you will be back to your old self slowly but surely.

Start slowly and stay safe

You’ve probably been told this a million times, but it’s worth repeating: take it slow when you start exercising again.

Muscles and joints that have been inactive for nine months don’t just snap back into shape overnight. In fact, you could do more harm than good if you try to do too much, too soon.

Incorporate core exercises

Incorporating some core exercises will help you regain your strength and stability, both of which are essential when it comes to working out.

You can do a variety of core exercises, including pilates and crunches. Just make sure you take things slowly at first and listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, stop immediately and talk to your doctor.

Don’t push yourself too hard, or too fast

Image Credits: parents.com

Yes, you’re probably eager to get back into your pre-pregnancy exercise routine, but don’t forget that your body has just gone through a lot. You need time to heal and adjust.

That’s why professionals recommend starting with low-impact exercises and gradually adding more strenuous activities as your body gets stronger. Swimming, walking, and biking are good for a start. As you get stronger, you can add in other activities.

And remember, this is a process. You’re not going to be able to do everything right away. Give yourself time to ease back in and don’t be too hard on yourself.

Follow an appropriate diet and exercise plan

Now, if you want to get your body back in shape, you need to make sure that you’re following an appropriate diet and exercise plan.

Balanced diets are key to getting all the vitamins that your body needs for recovery. Eating healthy, nutrient-packed meals will help fuel your workouts and build muscle mass.

When it comes to long-term exercise, set reasonable goals for yourself and focus on progress instead of perfection. It’s also important that you give your body time to rest and recover after each workout session.

Take advantage of this time by stretching, doing gentle yoga, or meditating—all great ways to lower cortisol levels in the body while promoting self-care and relaxation too!

Focus on strengthening your pelvic floor muscles

Strengthening your pelvic floor is essential for any postpartum exercise routine.

Because your pelvic floor is the support system for vital organs, make sure it has the strength and stability needed to support you in everyday life.

Pelvic floor exercises are relatively easy and can be done anytime, anywhere—no equipment necessary! They typically involve lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground, gently engaging your pelvic muscles as if you were trying to stop the flow of urine.

Strengthening those muscles through targeted exercises and general workouts can help restore a sense of control over your body after pregnancy and childbirth.

Facilitating yourself back into a workout routine post-pregnancy can be daunting, but it’s doable with the right approach. Remember to listen to your body, take things slow, and focus on rebuilding your strength and energy. And most particularly, don’t be too hard on yourself—consistency wins.

Ready, set, fly! How to prepare for your young child’s very first flight

You’ve booked your flight, packed your bags, and now all that’s left to do is get your little one ready for takeoff.

Traveling with children can be stressful for parents, but with a bit of preparation and forethought, you can make the experience a little smoother for everyone.

In this article, we will give you tips on how to prepare your young child for their first flight. From packing essentials to dealing with stress and anxiety, we’ve got you covered. So relax and sit back—we’re about to take off!

Tips for selecting the right seat

Which seat should you choose for your little one?

Ideally, you will want to sit them close to the aisle, so they can get up and move around more easily. You will also want to avoid seats near the lavatories, as they can be quite noisy.

Understanding the safety precautions

When you’re preparing your young one for their first flight, understand the safety precautions that will be in place. Each airline has its own set of rules and regulations, but there are some common themes that you can expect.

For starters, your child (at least two years old) will be given a seat and they will need to stay in it for the duration of the flight. That means no climbing on the seats or running up and down the aisles, especially during turbulence. In addition, there is a ban on most electronic devices during take-off and landing. This is for the safety of everyone.

If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak with a flight attendant before takeoff. They will be happy to answer any questions and help put your mind at ease.

Distractions to help the flight go smoothly

toddler with headphones holding a stuffed animal

Image Credits: healthline.com

There are a few distractions that can help your child stay occupied.

One is to bring along new toys or books to read. If your child is old enough, you can also bring along headphones so they can listen to music or watch cartoons.

Just after taking off and before landing, have them look out the window and spot all the things they can see. Let them take in the experience of flying and see it as an adventure. The more relaxed and comfortable they are, the smoother the flight will be for everyone.

Ideas for packing snacks and activities

Making sure your young child has enough snacks and activities while on their first flight is essential.

Young children don’t always have the patience expected of adults, which can make a flight long and uncomfortable. It’s important to keep your child occupied, but also remember that overly sugary snacks may make them antsy.

To ensure a good experience, here are some great ideas to consider packing in their carry-on:

Books, puzzles, or coloring pages
Healthy snacks such as nuts and cheese sticks
Comfortables like a blanket, stuffed animal, or small travel pillow
Electronic devices (like wireless headphones and tablets with pre-downloaded entertainment)

What to do if turbulence arises

Indeed, flights can sometimes be turbulent, so plan for what to do if your child gets scared or agitated.

For example, you can carry noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to help muffle the sound of the engines. Make sure the seatbelts are securely fastened and keep your child close by holding their hand or having them sit on your lap (if age appropriate).

Make sure they have something to grip onto (like a favorite stuffed animal) and encourage them to focus on activities like playing a game. Finally, talk through the turbulence and provide reassurance that it will soon pass.

No matter how you feel about flying with a young child, be prepared. With a little bit of planning, you can make the experience a lot less stressful for everyone involved. If possible, pick the right time to fly. If your child is under the age of three, you might want to consider flying during nap time or at night when they’re more likely to sleep. Make sure you have all the essentials packed in your carry-on, including snacks, drinks, toys, and a change of clothes. Finally, try to relax and enjoy the experience. Flying with a young child can be a fun adventure, and it’s a lovely way to start building lifelong memories.

Why your last impression is just as important as your first impression

You only get one chance to make a first impression.

We’ve all heard that saying before, and it’s true: the way you present yourself when meeting someone for the first time can either make or break a relationship.

But what about the last impression you make? Just as your first impression is important, so is your last impression. In fact, your last impression might even be more impactful than your first impression. Why? Let’s find out.

First impressions aren’t everything

When you meet someone for the first time, you’re sizing them up and trying to make a good first impression.

But what happens when you meet them for the second time? You’ve already formed an opinion of them, and you’re more likely to focus on their weaknesses than their strengths.

The same is true in business. Your clients will judge you not just on the products or services you offer, but on the first project experience, they have with you. Are you responsive to their needs? Do you go the extra mile? Are you easy to work with?

Why you should focus on your last impression

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You should focus on your last impression because, in the same way that your first impression can make or break a relationship, your last impression can do the same thing.

Think about it: You may have had a great first meeting with someone, but if your last meeting is a disaster, they’re going to remember you for the wrong reasons.

Conversely, you may have had a terrible first meeting with someone, but if your last meeting is good, they’re going to forget about the bad first impression and remember you for the right reasons.

It’s all about balance. You want to make sure that your first and last impressions are both good ones so that people remember you for all the right reasons.

The value of a lasting impression and how to make one

The first impression you make is only half the battle. To make a fantastic lasting impression, you need to focus on the latter half of the equation as well.

Here are a few tips on how to make a lasting impression that will stay after you’ve left the room:

Be considerate. This is something that should go without saying, but it’s all too easy to forget. Always be respectful of those around you, and be sure to thank people for their time (and coffee treat, if applicable).
Be genuine. Nobody wants to deal with a phony, so always be yourself. If you act like someone you’re not, it will show sooner or later—and that’s not a good thing. People respond better to genuine individuals than they do to those who put on airs.
Be a listener. We all know those people who never stop talking—and we can all agree that they’re pretty exhausting. While you can be eager to share quirky facts about yourself, tell stories that capture your audience’s attention, or simply showcase your positive side, learn to listen.

The bottom line is that your last impression is just as important as your first impression—if not more so. So, if you want to make sure you’re leaving a lasting impression, focus on your verbal and nonverbal cues, be genuine, and be yourself.