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Finances

Choosing a Property Management Company: 6 Things to Think About

It can be a heart-wrenching experience finding the right property manager for your complex. You need a property management company, but how do you select the best one? What should you consider? There are various factors to consider when looking for the best management service in your area. This article will discuss what you should keep in mind while choosing the agencies or companies that meet your needs.  

Things to Think About When Choosing a Property Management Company

Experience 

A good property manager should have experience dealing with properties similar to yours. For example, if you own a small duplex, it would probably be best to hire someone like Los Angeles Property Management Company, who has experience managing small-scale and large-scale properties. Look for someone who has dealt with those kinds of properties before so that your tenants stay happy and rent payments keep coming in on time every month!

Customer Service  

It is crucial to find out how responsive and attentive the team members are before hiring them for the job. If there are any problems or issues with your property, address them immediately. Quick action ensures that they don’t escalate into bigger problems later on.

A good property management company will have excellent customer service. They should respond quickly to any questions or concerns you may have, whether big or small. They should also be willing to answer any questions you might have during the application process or after moving in with them as your property manager. 

The Reputation of the Property Management Company

A good property management company like Los Angeles Property Management Company has an established reputation in the industry and among clients. You can find out how they’ve performed in the past by looking at their review. Ensure your chosen company has positive reviews from previous clients and that those reviews are recent within the last year. If many people are saying bad things about the company, it’s probably not a good choice for you. 

Insurance Coverage 

The company should have adequate insurance coverage for any situations that might arise during maintenance and repair work or from any damage caused by tenants or visitors to your property. For example, who pays for their medical bills if someone slips on ice outside your building and is injured? Who pays for repairs if fire damage caused by faulty wiring occurs or a fire that starts in one unit but spreads to others due to poor ventilation? These situations can be very costly if you do not have adequate insurance coverage beforehand. 

Licensing  

It’s essential that your potential property manager has all required licenses and registrations because these prove that they know what they’re doing and can legally operate their business in your state or city. You can check this information on the Better Business Bureau website or your local government office.

Cost 

Property managers charge fees that vary widely depending on their expertise, where you live, how much work needs to be done at each property location, and experience. A full-scale management company will charge more than an individual who works from home and has no overhead costs. But if you’re looking for someone who can manage many properties, the extra cost may be worth it. 

Choosing a Property Management Company 

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when hiring property management services. By weighing these factors and reviewing quotes from different companies, you should be able to choose the right company for your property, such as the Los Angeles Property Management Company. The above tips should help you prioritize your needs and the needs of your tenants when looking for management services! 

Categories
Adulting Buying a Home Finances

4 Things You Must Know When Buying A Residential Plot 

Buying a residential plot is one of the significant achievements of a person’s life. Generally, there are two types of people who often make the decision to buy plots rather than an already constructed property. The first category includes independently wealthy people who use the land for recreational purposes or build their dream homes. And the second category is wise real estate investors.

It does not necessarily matter which category you belong to; it is crucial that you take into account severe factors before finalizing your decision. Perhaps, you might be wondering what these factors are? If yes, scroll down to learn!  

Buying A Residential Plot 

What to Know When Buying A Residential Plot 

How Much Land Do You Need? 

First things first, you need to learn about your requirements and decide the size of the land you wish to purchase. If you want to build a big house with a pool or massive garden, you’ll need lots of space. On the other hand, if you are investing for creating a vacation rental or cabin for relaxation or recreational purposes, you may need less land.  

To put it simply, your “needs” will help determine the size of the lot and the next step of investment.

What Are The Easily Accessible Items? 

Another thing that you need to pay attention to is the lot’s location. Some of the questions to ask yourself include:

  • Is it in the nearest proximity to town?
  • Are you in a remote area, or is it a safe locality?
  • Can you easily access the water, electricity, and other amenities?

Answers to all these questions will help you select the best location. It will ensure that you live in nirvana yet do not have to give in to comfort.

Are There Any Hunting Or Recreational Possibilities? 

Many people invest in residential plots to enjoy traditional lifestyles and practice hunting. If you are also one of these, you must learn about your area’s hunting rules and regulations. If it’s allowed, you should contact land clearing service providers to remove unwanted bushes or trees from your lot. It will ensure that you can enjoy hiking, hunting, or any other recreational activity to the fullest.  

What Are The Prevailing Property Tax Rates? 

Property taxes might not be the fun part of real estate and lot investment; however, it is crucial. If you are working with a real estate agent, you can ask them about the prevailing rates in your area. Otherwise, you can ask the neighborhood, local shops, or search online about the same.  

Buying A Residential Plot 

These are some things that you must take into account if you wish to invest in a residential plot. Also, if you seek assistance from professionals for house construction or forestry mulching, make sure to learn about their license. It will give you peace of mind and help you appreciate your property’s overall value.  

Categories
Health Healthy Living Mental Health

How to Choose a Christian Addiction Recovery Program 

One of the best methods for recovering from an addiction is to find a Christian recovery program. Finding a recovery program is easier said than done because there are far too many to choose between. The number of programs makes it hard to know where to even begin. This post explains some things to look for when choosing a Christian recovery program to ensure the best possible care.

Choosing a Christian Addiction Recovery Program 

Look at the Treatment Program 

Christian addiction recovery programs typically take a holistic approach to addiction recovery. A holistic approach means that they will focus on all aspects of the individual’s life and not just the addiction itself.

The goal is to help people identify and work through issues in their lives that led them to become addicted. The program should provide counseling and therapy services and group sessions that focus on spiritual growth. Make sure that these sessions are offered by licensed counselors or therapists whenever possible. 

Consider the Type of Addiction Being Treated  

If alcohol or drugs are the problem, it may be more beneficial to visit a local rehab center where the staff specializes in treating addictions. An inpatient treatment program allows you to get away from the things that trigger your desire to misuse drugs, allowing you to focus on getting well and staying sober. A reputable facility will offer support, counseling, and physical detoxification services to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.  

Inpatient or Outpatient? 

A critical step in choosing between Christian addiction recovery programs is to decide whether you want to attend an inpatient or outpatient treatment center. Inpatient and outpatient centers offer similar services but differ in the amount of supervision. Outpatient programs allow you to visit the center at specific times each day. Inpatient programs require you to stay at the facility for your treatment.

Choose a Licensed Facility  

Drug and alcohol addiction treatment centers must have a license from the state they operate. It’s essential that you verify the license of any facility before signing a contract. This information allows for checking if the facility has the required certification to assist you in your alcohol addiction treatment program. The information also helps you see whether they have had any violations on their record. 

Look for Evidence of Quality Treatment 

To decide if an outpatient or residential program will meet your needs, you should research each facility’s treatment methods. Look for specifics about their rehab protocols and read reviews from past clients or alumni. Reading reviews during your search gives you a sense of how effective they were in helping people recover from addiction.

Many programs claim to offer the best treatment and promise miraculous results, but not all deliver. However, you must ask some essential questions. How many patients graduate, how often do they relapse, and how many stay sober long-term? Asking these questions is essential to protecting against fraudulent programs which make false claims about their success rates. If a program can’t produce numbers, that’s a bad sign. 

Christian Addiction Recovery Program 

Christian rehab should be an option when you want to break free from dependency and addiction. Knowing what to look for in Christian addiction recovery programs can be daunting, but these pointers can help you find what you’re looking for.

Categories
Adulting Life Mental Health

5 Professionals Who can Help Make Your Life a Whole Lot Easier

As a parent, it can feel like you are constantly running around trying to care for everyone and everything. It’s hard to find time for yourself, let alone time to get things done. That’s why it can be helpful to have some professionals in your life that can help make things a little easier. This blog post will discuss five professionals who can help make your life a lot easier!

Professionals Who Can Help Make Your Life Easier

1. Family doctor

Your family doctor can be an excellent resource for all sorts of things. They can provide you with information on health and wellness, help you manage your family’s medical care, and even give you referrals to other professionals when needed. If you don’t have a regular family doctor or your family’s needs are more complex, consider seeing a naturopathic doctor. 

Naturopathic doctors are trained in natural medicine and can offer a more holistic approach to health care. They can also provide helpful guidance on nutrition and lifestyle choices. Either way, having a trusted medical professional that you can turn to is a valuable asset.

2. Childcare provider

If you are working or studying, you will need someone to watch your children while you are away. Finding someone to watch them is where a childcare provider comes in. They can provide safe and reliable care for your children while you’re gone, giving you the peace of mind that they are in good hands.

When choosing a childcare provider, it is essential to find someone who you can trust and who has experience. Be sure to ask for references and check them out before deciding on someone.

If you have family or friends who live nearby, you can arrange for them to watch your children occasionally. Having your loved ones babysit can be a great option for last-minute child care or you want to save money. Plus, you’ll know they are with someone who cares about them.

3. Lawyers are Professionals Who can Help

Everyone should have a lawyer to turn to when they need legal advice or assistance. Whether you need help drafting a will, understanding your rights, or dealing with a legal dispute, having Wrongful Death Attorneys on your side can make the process a lot less stressful.

When choosing a lawyer, it is essential to find someone you feel comfortable with and who has experience. Be sure to ask for references and meet with several lawyers before making your final decision. At the same time, it may seem like an unnecessary expense, but having a lawyer on retainer can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly legal mistakes.

How to Choose the Right Lawyer?

When looking for a lawyer, it is essential to decide what legal services you need. There are many different types of lawyers, each with separate areas of expertise. If you need help drafting a will, find a lawyer who specializes in estate planning. On the other hand, if you have been injured in an accident, you would want a personal injury lawyer. Once you know what type of legal services you need, you can start researching lawyers in your area.

There are many different ways to find a lawyer. You can ask friends and family for recommendations, search online directories, or contact your local bar association. Once you have compiled a list of potential lawyers, the next step is to schedule initial consultations.

An initial consultation is an opportunity for you to learn more about the lawyer and their practice. You can also use the consultation to ask any questions you may have. Be sure to bring any relevant documents with you to the consultation so that the lawyer can get a better understanding of your case.

4. Personal Trainer

A personal trainer can be a great asset if you want to get in shape or improve your fitness level. They can help you develop a workout plan tailored to your individual needs and goals, and they can provide motivation and support to help you stay on track.

When choosing a personal trainer, it is essential to find someone who you feel comfortable with. They should also have experience helping people achieve their fitness goals. Be sure to ask for references and meet with several trainers before making your final decision.

While personal training sessions can be expensive, they can also save you money in the long run. They helg you avoid costly gym memberships or equipment purchases.

Personal trainers can help you achieve your fitness goals, including weight loss, muscle gain, and improved cardiovascular health. They can also help you learn how to use exercise equipment properly and perform exercises safely.

Be sure to communicate your goals and expectations clearly with your trainer. Communication will help the personal trainer develop the best workout plan for you and your goals. Also, be sure to listen to your body and rest when needed.

Over-exercising can lead to injuries, so it is essential to take breaks as needed. Additionally, consult your doctor before starting any new fitness routine.

5. Financial Planner

A financial planner can help you develop a plan to achieve your financial goals. They can advise on many topics, including investing, retirement planning, and tax strategies. Financial planners can also help you stay on track by providing accountability and support.

When choosing a financial planner, it is essential to find someone you feel comfortable with. Make sure that person has experience helping people meet their financial goals. Be sure to ask for references and meet with several planners before making your final decision. While financial planning services can be expensive, they can also save you money in the long run by helping you avoid costly mistakes.

The first step in working with a financial planner is to develop your financial goals. Your goals will help the planner understand what type of advice you need. Next, the planner will assess your current financial situation and make recommendations based on their findings.

Professionals Who Can Help

Many different professionals can make your life a whole lot easier. Taking time to research your options and finding the right person for the job can improve your quality of life. It’ll save yourself time, money, and stress.

Categories
Adulting Gifts How To

4 Easy Tips on How to Select the Right Perfume for You

Have you ever wanted to buy perfume but couldn’t make up your mind? Some scents leave you scratching your head, while others are polarizing. Whether you’re at the mall or shopping online, it’s tricky to select the right perfume. However, this post will provide you with a straightforward guide on finding the scent for you.

How to Select the Right Perfume for You

Do Not Experiment With Too Many Fragrances At Once 

You may have heard that your nose gets tired after smelling too many fragrances, and it is because our brains can only process so many scents at once. The maximum amount of scents we can smell in one go varies from person to person, but most experts recommend no more than five or six at a time. Even if you don’t feel like your nose is “tired” yet, it’s still better to be safe than sorry. You can move on to the next batch of perfumes later in the day. 

Stay Open-Minded When Trying a New Perfume 

When trying out a new perfume, avoid any preconceived ideas that you may have about it or its scent family. If you already know what you think you like and dislike, it will be hard to find something that works for you. Instead, stay open-minded and give each fragrance a fair chance – your perfect match might be hiding somewhere in between all those notes you assumed were off-limits for you! 

Sample Before You Buy 

Department stores usually have small bottles of the best selling fragrances so that customers can test them out before deciding if they want to buy them. When visiting these stores, make sure you apply a fragrance on each wrist or behind each ear. Sampling lets you compare one scent against another without mixing them and creating a new scent. If you don’t see them on display, ask for some. If you’re shy, keep in mind that most of these products are in sample form anyway. Don’t feel bad because the sample fragrances come from the same bottles as the full product. 

Understanding Fragrance Families and Their Seasonality 

The best selling fragrances are grouped into families, including:

  • Floral
  • Oriental
  • Woody

You can then divide the fragrance families into sub-groups like floral oriental and citrus woody. Fragrances are also classified as either single note or multi-note fragrances. Single note perfumes contain a single ingredient like rose or lavender, whereas multi-note fragrances contain multiple ingredients such as vanilla, cedarwood, bergamot, and amber. 

The key is finding out which fragrance family you love most. You can do this by reading about different fragrance families online or by going to a local department store and asking one of the sales associates to help you figure out which family you belong to. 

Select the Right Perfume for You

With so many perfumes to choose from, it’s tricky to find one right for you. So, take your time and do your research. Visit perfume stores or shop online. Think about what you’re looking for, and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Remember to trust your gut, as it’s often a better indicator of how a perfume will smell on you than the information you read or hear. The good news is that you really can’t go wrong with choosing the best selling fragrances!

Categories
Adulting Health Healthy Living

5 Logical Reasons You Might Have Back Pain Every Morning

Having a night of quality sleep is crucial. After a long day, we naturally yearn for the feeling of our backs against a mattress as we drift off. However, if you have back pain every morning, it could ruin things for you.

If you have this challenge, you’re not alone. Many things can cause your back to hurt every morning, including poor sleeping positions, a medical condition, and even a bad mattress. 

Let’s look into these things and see what you can do. 

Back Pain Every Morning

Common Causes of Back Pain in the Morning 

1. Poor Sleeping Posture 

Sleep is good, and how you sleep matters, too. You might wake up with back strain if you put unusual pressure on your spine while sleeping. Poor sleeping posture can also cause uncomfortable pressure in the joints.

Sleeping frequently on your stomach may also lead to back pain. So, how should you sleep to avoid hurting your back? 

The best sleeping position is to lie on your side. If you lie on your back, ensure there’s a pillow underneath to reduce pressure on your spine. However, if you must sleep on your stomach, place a pillow beneath your waist to take pressure off your spine.

2. Poor Quality Mattress 

The cause of your back pain may be your mattress. Experts say that you should replace your mattress every six to eight years, even if you think yours is still okay.

Mattresses that are too soft or too hard can hurt your spine quickly. It might help if you had a custom mattress personalized according to your taste for maximum comfort. The mattress will fit your preferred sleeping style so it is a perfect fit for you. 

3. Disc Degeneration 

Disc degeneration usually comes with age due to the wear and tear of the spinal discs. It can cause excruciating pain, which generally gets worse over the night. That’s because the pressure in the disc is more in the morning. 

Steroid injections and pain killers can help relieve the discomfort from disc degeneration. A corset or brace that supports the back can also help. 

4. Pregnancy 

It’s not uncommon to experience back pain during pregnancy, even as early as the first trimester. However, it usually occurs in the late second or early third trimester. 

The weight from the uterus can cause pressure on the spine, and after sleeping for long hours, you’d likely feel back pain in the morning. 

As a pregnant woman, you can try stretching more and standing with your legs rather than using your back for support too often. If the pain becomes unbearable, do a warm compress

5. Fibromyalgia 

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that amplifies pain by influencing how the brain interprets pain signals. Although anyone is at risk of the condition, it is more prevalent among women. 

Common symptoms include: 

  • Musculoskeletal pain, which you’ll feel in your spine 
  • Trouble staying asleep 
  • Mood swings 
  • Tension headaches 
  • Anxiety and depression 
  • Difficulty remembering things 

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for Fibromyalgia, but prescription pain killers can help manage the pain and improve your sleep. 

Back Pain Every Morning

Physical exercises like the plank that work on your core can help you manage back pain. But if the discomfort gets severe and the recommendations do not work, whether you change your mattress or sleeping position, consider seeing a doctor for a checkup.  

Categories
Adulting Business Finances

4 Profitable Investments That Young Professionals Should Consider

There are many different investment options available to young professionals. It can be challenging to decide which ones are the best for you. This blog post will discuss six of the most profitable investments you should consider. So, whether you are just beginning your career or looking for new opportunities, these six investments should be at the top of your list!

Profitable Investments For Young Professionals

1. Stocks

One of the most popular investment options is stocks. When you buy stocks, you are purchasing a piece of a company. This purchase can be a great way to grow your money over time, as stocks tend to increase in value. However, there is always the risk of losing money if the stock price drops.

You will need to open up an account with a brokerage firm to get started with stocks. There are many different firms to choose from, so be sure to research before deciding which one is right for you. Once you have opened an account, you will need to deposit some money. Then, you can start buying stocks!

2. Bonds

Bonds are an excellent investment for young professionals because they offer stability and consistent returns. Unlike stocks, which can be volatile, bonds tend to be more stable and provide predictable income streams. This stability makes them a good option for those who want to minimize their risk while still earning a solid return on their investment.

There are a variety of bond investments to choose from, so it is essential to do your research before investing. Municipal bonds, for example, are issued by states and local governments and offer tax-free income. Corporate bonds are issued by companies and typically offer higher yields than municipal bonds. Treasury bonds are issued by the U.S. government and are considered one of the safest investments available.

3. Real Estate

Real estate is an excellent investment for young professionals for a few reasons. First, it tends to be a more stable investment than other options. You can also use it to generate income and build equity over time. And lastly, real estate is often easier to access than different types of investments. If you’re interested in getting into real estate, here are a few tips:

  • Start small: Don’t try to invest in a vast property right away. Start with something that’s more manageable and that you can afford.
  • Do your research: Make sure you know what you’re getting into before making any decisions. Research the market and start finding the best houses for sale.
  • Prepare to invest time and money: Owning real estate isn’t always easy. You’ll likely need to put in some work (and money) to keep things running smoothly. But it can be worth it in the end.

If you think about investing in real estate, you must consider a few things. Do your research so that you’re comfortable with the potential risks before moving forward. Real estate can be a great way to grow your wealth over time!

4. Business Start-Ups

Starting your own business is another excellent option for young professionals. It can be a bit riskier than some of the other investments on this list, but it also has the potential to be very lucrative. If you’re thinking about starting your own business, here are a few tips:

  • Do your research: Make sure you have a solid plan and know what you’re getting into before making any decisions.
  • Get help: You don’t have to do it all on your own! There are plenty of resources available to help you get started.
  • Owning a business is not easy, so prepare for hard work. You’ll likely need to put in a lot of time and effort to make it successful. But it can be worth it in the end.

If you’re thinking about starting your own business, keep a few things in mind. Make sure you have a solid plan and know what you’re getting into before making any decisions. Getting help from others is critical – don’t try to do it all on your own! Owning your own business is not easy, but it can be worth it.

Profitable Investments

There are several great investments young professionals can consider. These are just a few of the most popular options – do your research to find the right option. You must be comfortable with the risks before making any decisions. So, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not give one of these options a try?

Categories
Adulting Business Finances Mental Health

3 Easy and Effective Ways To Be Happy At Work

As we spend a significant amount of our life at work, we must make the most of our time there. Learning to be happy at work will roll over into the rest of our lives. Even if we can’t all find the ideal job, being happy will help us tremendously in whatever we choose to do in the end. Even if we have to work to pay the bills, we can still be happy. Happiness at work has the potential to transform a profession we don’t enjoy into one we like. A healthier work environment and a happier life are possible.

be happy at work

How To Be Happy At Work

Choose Positivity 

In many cases (although we understand not all), you can choose to be positive. Looking at the bright side of any situation is something we should all aim to do. Focusing on negative things will only make us feel worse, impacting how we look at our work and how productive we are.

When trying to be positive, you need to avoid negativity as much as you can. That means staying away from negative people and choosing to spend time with those who are also positive. It will help you see the good in everything. The more positive you can be, the better and happier you will feel, even if you are doing a task that isn’t to your taste.

Work On Career Development 

If you want to be happy at work, you might need to look for a new job where your skills are better used. If that’s the case, make sure you spend enough time working on your career development. Take charge of your future and ensure that you get the training you need to move forward. Getting the training might mean going to a course in the evenings or learning more online. If it is going to help you be happier at work, it is certainly worth doing.

Although this might seem like a lot of hard work – and sometimes is – having a goal in mind will help. Perhaps you want to look at apartments near me and finally be able to afford your own home, or maybe you want to get a promotion so you can go on a great vacation. Keep these goals in mind, and the hard work will be worth it. 

Switching jobs is sometimes a good option, too. You can find a higher-paying job in your industry or try something entirely new. Using job boards like Jooble can help you determine your options and consider your next move.

Have A Hobby 

Even if you don’t enjoy your job, having something to look forward to at the end of the day will bring happiness. A hobby is something to think about, as it’ll help you think about something else, too. It could be a sport, something you collect, an artistic endeavor, or anything else that makes you feel good.

If you don’t have a hobby and nothing to take your mind off work, it might be time to start one. Think about your skills and interests, and search around for a way to incorporate them into your life. There are groups for many exciting and interesting things, from archaeology to pottery to cycling and everything in between. There is sure to be at least one other person you can find to help you get started. 

Be Happy At Work

We should all strive to be happy at work. Things aren’t always perfect, but it’s detrimental to dread and ruminate about what we must do daily. Use these tips to help you find happiness.

Categories
Adulting How To Life

5 Important Things To Consider When Buying a New Car

When you’re ready to purchase a new car, the idea gives you an adrenaline rush almost immediately. However, with hundreds of different new car models available, it can be easy to get confused.

Choosing the right car can be pretty challenging, and unless you already know much about cars, you may get blown away by the most visually appealing one. If you’re unlucky with your choice of vehicle, you might just be setting yourself up for a tedious and regret-filled experience.

Before heading to a car dealer, you might already have a few preferred car brands and models in mind. However, regardless of your preferred car brand, it’s essential to consider a few things about any new car before handing over your cash. Keeping these factors at heart will help you select only the best new cars for yourself, even if you’re within budget. 

What To Consider When Buying a New Car

1. Quality

Owning and maintaining a car comes at a cost different from the one-time payment for securing the vehicle. The long-term cost of owning a car will usually be higher than the actual cost of purchasing the vehicle.

One way to determine this is to read various reviews online about the car brand and model you are considering. Highly rated cars are less likely to be problematic as they’re already tested and used by others.

So issues common with the newest model, such as navigation challenges, reverse-parking assist problems, rubber seal wearing, paint peeling, rattling noises, etc., are unlikely to be a challenge for you.

If you want a redesigned or newly introduced vehicle, there’s a higher chance of experiencing problems within its first year of production than in subsequent years. The problems occur because not as many other people have bought the cars, and the kinks haven’t quite been figured out. Since only very few people have tested the machine.

To help you get the best, you might want to go for at least one-year-old cars as they have undergone more tests.

2. Cost of Ownership

Owning and maintaining a car comes at a cost, which is different from the one-time payment for securing the vehicle. In fact, the long-term cost of owning a car will usually be higher than the actual cost of purchasing the vehicle.

Due to this, you want to make sure you know the cost of maintaining your new vehicle, which includes depreciation, fuel, oil replacement, repairs, and insurance. By and large, depreciation is the largest of these costs, and it’s the loss in value your vehicle records over time.

Once you understand the maintenance costs, you know which car is best for your financial strength.

3. Reliability

A reliable vehicle means fewer repairs and longer-lasting quality performance. Imagine what it’s like buying a car that becomes grossly less efficient within a year or two. It would be painful, for sure.

Your new vehicle should be a highly reliable one as that will save you thousands of dollars on repairs and maintenance. Plus, high reliability gives you peace of mind and guarantees more safety behind the wheel.

Car warranties in recent years can be anywhere between 3 to 10 years or 36,000 to 100,000 miles. And as expected, you may have to pay more for new cars with more extended warranties.

4. Appearance

You don’t want to buy a vehicle that you don’t feel connected to because of its unappealing looks. Even though quality and reliability are highly essential, the appearance of your machine isn’t any less important.

Your car’s body and style say a lot about your personality and taste, so get a befitting vehicle. Plus, surveys show that your vehicle can make you look more attractive. Looking more attractive means greater chances of impressing potential clients and closing good business deals.

5. Car Maintenance

Finally, once you have chosen the perfect car, you want to maintain it properly to help your machine last longer. Poor vehicle maintenance can make your automobile develop various problems earlier than it typically should.

Buying a New Car

Buying a new car is exciting, but it can be stressful if you don’t know what to look for. Use these tips and find a vehicle that you love.

Categories
Health Healthy Living

5 Signs You Are Struggling with Addiction (And How to Get Help)

When people think about addiction, stereotypes about non-functioning, irrational, and potentially abusive addicts often come to mind. However, the line between addiction and healthy, recreational alcohol use is thin and easy to cross. If you worry your substance use is bordering on problematic but aren’t sure if it’s serious enough to warrant help, these five signs may help add clarity to your situation.

What is Addiction?

Addiction is an extreme substance use disorder (SUD), wherein substance use continues despite evidence that it negatively impacts a person’s quality of life.

Whether you think you might have an addiction or are interested in supporting a loved one with addiction, you should pay attention to the following five signs of addiction: 

Hiding Substance Use

Do you consume alcohol in the privacy of your garage where no one is watching? This behavior, and any other that you strive to keep a secret, indicates that you may have a problem.

You are likely hiding your behavior because you know that friends and family may express concern if you were to do it in front of them. 

Feeling Out of Control Is a Sign of Addiction

People who have addictions do not feel like they have firm control over their substance use. 

Additionally, if you feel like you can quit using the substance cold-turkey, although that’s far from honest, it could be a sign. On the other hand, if you think you can consume large quantities without a problem, it could be an issue.

Increase in Substance Use

Have you noticed that your substance use has increased recently? If you’ve been feeling stressed at work and drinking more to cope, it is indicative of a problem. Likewise, if you drink daily as a way to unwind, it might be time to get help.

Increased use generally indicates an increased need, which is indicative of addiction. 

Change in Relationships

People with addictions generally notice that their relationships have become strained. If friends and family members notice addictive behavior, they may confront their loved ones and receive negativity. The person struggling with addiction may also have less time and interest in their relationships.

Change in Activities

Like relationships, people with SUD often have less interest in and energy to engage in the activities they once enjoyed.

Like drugs and alcohol, participating in pleasurable activities increases feel-good hormones in the body. However, substance use has a more immediate effect on the brain than hobbies. As drug and alcohol abuse increases, participation in hobbies decreases. 

How to Get Help for Addiction

There are several avenues to getting help if you think you may have an addiction. The most surefire way to get clean is to visit a detoxification and treatment center. These facilities employ highly trained healthcare professionals and can target the underlying causes. 

Alternatively, you may try to tackle your addiction on your own. Confide with close friends and family, and contact a therapist. These specialists can help you develop the tools to overcome addiction and get back to living the life you’ve always dreamed of having.