Is the time right? Questions to ask yourself when deciding if you’re ready for a baby

newborn baby lying on the bed

You and your partner have been married for a while now, and the topic of children has come up in conversations more than a few times.

You’re both on the same page about wanting kids—eventually—but you’re not quite sure if you’re ready yet. Deciding if you’re ready for a baby is a huge decision, and it’s not one to be taken lightly. There are a lot of factors to consider, both big and small.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of questions to help you make an informed decision.

Are you financially prepared?

One of the most important aspects of readiness is financial preparedness.

Take a good look at your current financial situation and determine if you’re able to handle the added expenses of a child.

This includes having a monthly budget to evaluate your available income, considering an emergency fund, and retirement savings, and how debt repayment will be affected. You should also think about any goal-related expenses you may have, like buying a car.

Are both partners ready to be parents?

Some couples feel a strong desire to be parents, and for them, the answer is easy.

Other couples have to weigh the pros and cons, and sometimes it’s not a clear-cut decision.

Some things to consider: Are you both ready to give up some of your time and freedom to care for a child? Are you prepared to handle the stress of parenting? These are just some of the questions you will need to ask yourselves.

It’s also necessary to talk with your partner about your readiness. Be honest with each other about your feelings and fears. This is a huge decision, and you need to make sure that both of you are on the same page before taking the next step.

What about support networks and help?
grandfather with his grandchild

Image Credits: zerotothree.org

You need a strong support network before you even think about having a child. This includes your parents, in-laws, and siblings if they’re close by, as well as relatives.

If you don’t have a good support network in place, now is the time to build one. This includes finding other couples who are also trying to conceive so you can swap advice and tips, attending parenting workshops, and reading up on everything you need to know about being a parent.

How will a baby fit into your career plans?

If you’re in the early stages of your career, you may be wondering if you can afford to take time off work or if you will have to put your career on hold for a while.

It’s worth finding out your company’s policies on maternity leave and childcare before you make any decisions. Some companies are very understanding and will allow you to take a few months off without having to worry about your job security.

Others might not be so understanding, and you may need to think about whether or not you’re prepared to take a step back in your career to start a family.

What lifestyle and hobbies will need to be adapted for a baby?

Having a baby will require you to make some changes to your lifestyle and hobbies.

For example, if you’re used to going out drinking every weekend, you might have to give that up once you become a parent.

And if you’re an avid traveler, you might have to put your travel plans on hold for a while. That’s not to say you won’t be able to travel with your baby, but it will be more challenging and you will have to plan your trips around your child’s needs.

So before you decide to have a baby, sit down and think about what lifestyle changes you will need to make. If you’re not ready to make those changes, then you might not be ready for parenthood just yet.

So, how do you know if you’re ready for a baby? Ultimately, only you can answer that question. However, asking yourself the questions in this article is a good starting point. If you can honestly say that you have stable financials and a supportive partner, and you’re both on the same page about wanting a child, then you’re likely ready to start trying for a baby. However, if you’re not quite there yet, that’s okay, too. Just make sure you’re honest with yourself and don’t try to have a baby just because you think it’s what you’re supposed to do.

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Ready to take the next step? How to broach the topic of promotion with your boss

a female boss talking to her employee

You’ve been with the company for a while and you’re killing it in your current role.

You’re ready for the next step, but you’re not sure how to broach the topic of promotion with your boss.

Below, we’ve outlined a few tips on how to discuss a promotion with your boss. We’ve also included a few things to avoid when broaching the topic of promotion. Let’s get started!

Understand the expectations of your role

When you’re gunning for a promotion, the first step is to understand the expectations of your role.

Do some digging and find out what is and isn’t considered part of your job description. This information can be especially helpful when it comes time to broach the topic of promotion.

Remember: promotion isn’t just about a change in title or more money. It’s also about taking on additional responsibilities and growing your skillset. So start slowly, and build up to bigger tasks that may have the potential to lead to a promotion.

Then, when you finally sit down with your boss, you will be able to speak confidently about your accomplishments and how you’re ready for the next step.

Collecting your successes and achievements

You’ve been working hard, putting in the extra hours, and going above and beyond your job description. You’re ready for the next step, but how do you bring it up with your superior?

One way is to compile a folder of documents that support your case. This might include letters of recommendation from clients or colleagues, emails of feedback from happy customers, or screenshots of positive social media comments.

If you have examples of times when you’ve gone above and beyond, be sure to highlight those too. And if there are any areas where you feel like you need to improve, now is the time to mention them. Honesty is key here—after all, your boss is likely to bring them up in any discussion about promotion anyway.

Researching your industry’s average salary trends
salary calculator

Image Credits: marketingprofs.com

Now that you have a good understanding of your skills, and the value they bring to your company, it’s time to do some research on what the market rate is for your position.

This information will be necessary to have when you go to speak with your boss about your promotion. Google to get an idea of what the average salary is for someone in your field.

Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on location, years of experience, and other factors. But having a ballpark figure will give you a good starting point for your discussion.

Writing a proposal letter or setting up a meeting

If you decide to take the more formal route and write a proposal letter or set up a meeting, there are a few key points you will want to hit.

First, offer an overview of your time working at the company, highlighting key achievements and their concrete impact. Second, explain why you think you are ready for a promotion, and third, detail what the new position should look like.

Remember to be clear, concise, and direct in your communication. You want to make it easy for your boss to say yes!

When it comes to asking for a promotion, there’s no one way to do it. You might want to schedule a meeting with your boss or send a proposal in advance. Or, you might simply want to bring it up in conversation. Just make sure you’re polite, and that you’ve done your homework. Make it clear why you think you’re ready for a promotion, and outline what you can bring to the role. And, be prepared for your boss to say no. If that’s the case, be sure to ask for feedback, so you can continue to improve and grow in your career, or plan for your departure.

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Raising grateful kids: Tips for teaching your child to receive gifts with gratitude

kid delighted with a Christmas gift

It’s the holidays, and that means one thing: your child is going to be getting a lot of gifts.

From friends and family to teachers and coaches, your child is probably going to be feeling pretty spoiled by the time Christmas morning arrives.

Introducing your child to the idea of gratitude can be a challenge, but it’s worth the time. Below are a few tips for teaching your kid to receive gifts with gratitude.

Talk about and discuss gratitude

Talking about gratitude is a great way to start teaching how to be grateful.

Invite them to share things they’re grateful for, big or small. You can also ask them how they think showing gratitude can make someone’s day better. This will help get your child thinking about gratitude in a positive light.

Another way to help your little one express gratitude is to encourage them to say thank you. Teach them to say it not just when they receive a gift, but also when someone does something nice for them. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in someone’s day.

Get creative with thank-you cards

Another way to get your child into the habit of thanking people for gifts is to get creative with thank-you cards.

Why not have your kid create a card or letter that is handwritten and uniquely designed for the person who gave them the gift? This will show them that it’s always nice to put thought and effort into expressing their gratitude.

Not only will this help your child learn how to be more appreciative, but it will also teach them to hone their writing skills and help them develop their literary style. Plus, it’s a fun way to get creative and express themselves through words!

Establishing gifting traditions to encourage appreciation of gifts
child decorating cookies

Image Credits: unsplash.com

One tradition you might want to try is the gift of giving.

Have your child pick out a toy or game they’re no longer interested in and give it to a younger child who will be excited to receive it. This teaches them two things: first, that it feels good to give to others, and second, that not everything they own needs to be kept.

Another tradition you can try is the gift of service.

Have your child do something nice for someone else in your family or community. Maybe they could bake cookies for their grandparents, write a thank-you card to their teacher, or strike up a conversation with the elderly neighbor next door. This teaches kids that there are ways to serve others that don’t involve lots of money or things.

Setting a good example: modeling gracious gift-receiving behavior

When you receive a gift, whether it’s from your friend, spouse, or family member, take a moment to express your appreciation.

You can say something like:

  • “Thank you so much for this lovely sweater. I can’t wait to wear it.”
  • “I’ve been wanting this book for a while. Thank you for thinking of me.”

Your child will be watching your reaction and taking cues from you on how to respond when they receive gifts. So make sure you set a good example!

When it comes to raising grateful kids, start early and be consistent. Explain the concept of gratitude, and model it yourself. You can also suggest writing thank you cards, letting your child experience giving gifts, or encouraging them to volunteer. When you look back, it’s going to be one of the best investments you’ve made in your parenting journey.

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When your spouse prefers spending the money dining out: What do you do?

Korean food and side dishes

You’ve just come home from a long day of work, and you’re starving.

You head into the kitchen to prepare dinner, but your spouse has other plans. They would rather go out to eat and spend the money. What do you do?

You have a few options. You can either compromise and go out to eat together, or you can cook dinner yourself and let them fend for themselves. Or, read on.

Consider cooking together to make it fun

Cooking together can be an entertaining way to spend time with your spouse.

Not only do you get to cook a meal, but you also get to chat and spend time together.

Set aside time each week to do that. It doesn’t have to be a lot of time, but it should be enough so that you can focus on cooking and not feel rushed.

Analyzing the financial impact of dining out

Dining out can be expensive, especially if you’re eating at restaurants full-time.

By understanding the financial influence of this decision and sharing it with your spouse, you will be better prepared to make an informed choice that makes sense for everyone.

Take advantage of food delivery promotions
food delivery riders in Singapore

Image Credits: straitstimes.com.sg

If your spouse prefers to spend the money on convenience, take advantage of food delivery promotions instead.

This way, you can still enjoy a prepped meal without having to spend more. You might even be able to save some money.

Most food delivery services offer discounts for orders that are placed online. And if you order during off-peak hours, you can save even more. Plus, many food delivery services have loyalty programs that give you rewards for ordering from them often. So be sure to sign up for those.

Finding a compromise to keep both sides happy

Open up to the idea of compromise and try to come up with a plan that both of you are comfortable with. Perhaps you can allocate a certain amount of money each month that can be spent on dining out.

Or, maybe you can work out a plan where you cook at home more often and only go out to eat on special occasions. It’s good to understand each other’s values and spending habits so that you can find a midpoint that works for both of you.

Tips to have an enjoyable time eating out on a budget

Here are some tips:

  • If you want to save money, consider going to lunch or happy hour instead of dinner. Many restaurants offer great deals during these times.
  • When you do go out to eat, try splitting dishes with your spouse. This way, you can try more variety and save money at the same time.
  • Enjoy your time! Don’t be overly obsessed with how much money you are spending, but rather on quality time with your partner.

It can be challenging when your spouse prefers spending the money dining out over cooking at home. On the one hand, you may feel like you’re not getting your fair share of the budget when the other party spends more money on dining out than you would like. On the other hand, you may also feel like you’re not getting the healthy home-cooked meals you crave. No matter which side of the issue you’re on, have a conversation with your partner about how you feel. You may also want to consider compromises, such as cooking together or taking advantage of promotions. Ultimately, the most noteworthy thing is that both of you can come to a consensus about handling money when dining out.

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4 Spectacular, New Places to Explore in Singapore

Grab your favorite cup of hot chocolate or peppermint mocha and treat yourself with a trip to these spectacular, new places in Singapore! Let the good times roll with your friends and family members ’tis Yuletide season.

#1: STROLL DOWN ORCHARD ROAD

From now until January 2, 2023, Orchard Road glistens with streetlights and big Christmas trees. Take beautiful pictures with your loved ones as the entire stretch is dazzled with fairy lights, towering Christmas trees, and plenty of festive props. You can start from Plaza Singapura and end at Tanglin Mall.

Image Credits: facebook.com/VisitSingaporeANZ

Head down to Tanglin Mall for some winter wonderland glamour. This mall is a popular attraction for kids and young at heart. Near here is the Forum The Shopping Mall, which has pink neon lights decor that glows magically at night. While strolling some more, you will see Wheelock Place. Wheelock Place will draw you to its star-shaped illuminations suspended within its structure. Lastly, you will experience luxury with ION Orchard’s enormous star-shaped tree topper from Dior. This is your perfect backdrop for an IG snap!

#2: WITNESS THE CHANGI AIRPORT CONNECTOR

Witness the Changi Airport Connector light up in bioluminescence until Jan. 31, 2023. The 3-kilometer-long festive installation is called the Dino Glow. The Dino Glow greets its guests with a trail of 1,100 levitating jellyfish beneath the T2 Skytrain tracks. Along the park connector are 4,000 dandelions and 3,600 mushrooms, which leads to a 40-meter tunnel of lighted arches. The dinosaurs at Jurassic Mile are also decked out in festive gear. The light-up runs daily from 7pm to 1am.

Image Credits: Changi Airport Group

Apart from these, there will also be local food, burgers, and desserts. Some are blue too! There will be blueberry bubble tea and blue donburis. The food trucks are open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from now until Jan. 1, 2023 at 5pm to 10pm.

#3: APPRECIATE HYPERREALISTIC ART AT ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM

Patricia Piccinini: We Are Connected exhibition reimagines reality at ArtScience Museum until Jan. 29, 2023. It features more than forty artworks and installations by contemporary artist Patricia Piccinini. Guests will be amazed by the strange reality where human-animal hybrids exist. Through her life-like sculptures, Patricia explores the advancements in biotechnology such as genetic engineering. Ticket prices range from S$16 to S$21.

Other activities at ArtScience Museum include the guided tours of the exhibition, which are available in Mandarin and English. Additional fees apply.

#4: PLAY AT THE GREAT BAY FIESTA

The Great Bay Fiesta displays attractions at Marina Bay, which runs from now until Jan. 1, 2023. The 20,000-square meter space includes four main event segments: The Great Cirque des Cascades, The Great World Carnival, The Great Food Fiesta, and Ice Magic: The Great Fantasy on Ice.

As someone who has never watched circus acts before, you will be impressed by the various performing acts that the Great Cirque des Cascades offers throughout its 80-minute runtime.

Image Credits: facebook.com/cheekiemonkies

At -10 degrees, Ice Magic: The Great Fantasy on Ice is the closest winter experience you can have in Singapore. The indoor ice playground will delight your children and their peers. Admission to the Great Bay Fiesta is priced from S$10. Additional payment applies for the activities.

 

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