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    <updated>2012-05-09T16:51:47Z</updated>
    <subtitle>WAHM.com is the number one resource for work at home moms. Find work at home jobs, information on how to start a home business, join the WAHM forum to share your stories on everything from childcare and parenting, to working at home.</subtitle>
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<entry>
    <title>Working from Home as an Internet Researcher</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/working-from-home-as-an-internet-researcher.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5671</id>

    <published>2012-08-01T17:30:52Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-09T16:51:47Z</updated>

    <summary>If you really know your way around the web, there are plenty of opportunities for you to work as an Internet researcher. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for online researchers is above average through at...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
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        <![CDATA[<p>If you really know your way around the web, there are plenty of opportunities for you to work as an Internet researcher. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for online researchers is above average through at least 2018. All you need to get started is some research know-how and a high speed Internet connection. It also helps if you have a specialized skill or degree, because companies may be looking for your particular area of expertise.</p>
<h4>Who's Hiring</h4>
<p>There is a wide range of companies that outsource research projects. Law firms are always hiring, so if you have any sort of legal background, this presents a great opportunity. Political action committees and campaigns need researchers during election years (make sure they're offering pay and not volunteer work). Marketing firms, insurance companies and health care companies are also expected to be offering more Internet researcher <a class="autolink" href="http://www.wahm.com/jobs.html">jobs</a> in the coming years. These are just a few ideas to get you started.</p>
<h4>Work Description</h4>
<p>The hours you'll work as an Internet researcher partly depend on your client. In some cases, you'll be given a task with a quick deadline--such as finding case law related auto accidents, or finding the average cost of a product or service in different cities. In others, you'll have a longer amount of time to do the research, but perhaps need to go more in depth on a topic. Some clients will expect you to work during business hours, and others will just want the work to be done on time. You'll also need to be able to compile the research according your clients' needs. This could range from a Word or PDF document to an Excel spreadsheet or a PowerPoint presentation.</p>
<h4>How to Land Work</h4>
<p>You can apply for work at an Internet research service. The advantage here is that the company that hires you does all the research and marketing to find clients. You could join the national Association of Internet Researchers as another way to find clientele and keep up with the latest advancements in the field. If you set up work as an individual, you'll want to build a web presence for yourself to market your skills, and then start making cold calls to law firms, marketing companies and other sources. You can also bid for projects on various job websites.</p>
<h4>Research Tools</h4>
<p>The following is a partial list of some of the tools that the top Internet researchers use:</p>
<ul>
<li>Zotero and Wired-Marker (Firefox add-ons)</li>
<li>iCyte</li>
<li>Similar Web</li>
<li>Concierge (Safari plug-in)</li>
<li>EagleFiler and Selenium (Mac OS X)</li>
<li>SpringNote</li>
<li>Google Notebook</li>
</ul>
<h4>Pay Rates for Internet Researchers</h4>
<p>The rates of pay for Internet researchers depend on their experience and areas of expertise. Jobs start at around $10 an hour or less if you don't have much of a track record. Once you have some positive testimonials and have proven yourself, you can bump your rates up to the $20 an hour range. If you have a legal or technical background, you can set rates as high as $50 to $75 an hour.</p>
<p>Since you're working from home as an Internet researcher, you have several options for setting up payment plans with clients. PayPal is an easy option, and you can invoice clients based on the hours you work. Once you've established a reputation and have developed long-term clients, you can ask for a retainer fee from clients and get paid up front.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Choosing the Right Summer Camp for Your Kids</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/choosing-the-right-summer-camp-for-your-kids.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5673</id>

    <published>2012-05-08T16:30:23Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-09T16:47:03Z</updated>

    <summary>Summer is only a few short months away, which means it&apos;s time to start looking for a summer camp for your children. For the longest time, there weren&apos;t all that many options available when it came to choosing a summer...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Parenting" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
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        <![CDATA[<p>Summer is only a few short months away, which means it's time to start looking for a summer camp for your children. For the longest time, there weren't all that many options available when it came to choosing a summer camp -- but now it's a completely different story. There are more choices than ever before, as camps have become increasingly specialized in order to differentiate themselves from the other camps out there and to satisfy the demands of parents and campers. Summer has become a time when many parents feel it's important for their kids to supplement their education with opportunities to build skills and focus on their favorite activities. Of course, it's important to remember that while these camps encourage developing new skillsets, they can still be extremely fun. They also offer your children the chance to make new friends and develop important social skills as well.</p>
<p>Currently, there are summer camps for nearly every hobby, activity, or academic field imaginable. If your child is a budding actor or musician, there are camps that specialize in performance arts and music. If he loves computers, there are camps that focus solely on web design and software engineering. There are even camps that specialize in espionage tactics if your child dreams of one day becoming a secret agent.</p>
<p>Sports camps (especially those that focus on sports like football and basketball) have continued to remain the most popular with generations of campers. However, camps that specialize in unique sports, such as paintball or skateboarding, continue to grow in popularity. From golf to horseback riding, there are camps that specialize in all sorts of sports and pastimes.</p>
<p>As you can tell, the current diversity of summer camps is nearly overwhelming -- there are just so many to choose from. Picking the right camp is important since your children will have summer camp memories for the rest of their lives. So, if you're interested in exploring all of the options in order to pick the best camp for your child, we recommend visiting our sister site, <a href="http://www.kidscamps.com/"></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<p></p>]]>
        
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</entry>

<entry>
    <title>6 Simple Ways to Make Your Workday Happier and Healthier</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/6-simple-ways-to-make-your-workday-happier-and-healthier.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2011://2.5660</id>

    <published>2012-05-08T16:00:00Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-09T16:50:09Z</updated>

    <summary>Finding work satisfaction may sound like an impossible task on some days. However, before you grab the double espresso and the King-sized candy bar, remember that there are many simple adjustments that can boost your spirits, and perhaps even your...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Work-Life Balance" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Finding<strong> work satisfaction</strong> may sound like an impossible task on some days. However, before you grab the double espresso and the King-sized candy bar, remember that there are many simple adjustments that can boost your spirits, and perhaps even your productivity on the job. Try these 6 simple tips and go from stressed out to Zen master (or a bit more relaxed, at least):<br /><br /><strong>1. Be a Grazer</strong></p>
<p>It is easy in the hectic work world to get swept up in a task and totally forget to eat. Even if you can't squeeze out a 30 to 60 minute lunch break every day, you should eat at regular intervals. Keep easy snacks like pre-cut fruits and vegetables on hand. Make a batch of trail mix (e.g., peanuts, raisins and chocolate chips) and keep it in your desk for hungry moments. Store some muffins in your freezer and pop one in the microwave for a satisfying break. Just don't let your stomach get empty--low blood sugar sends most people into a cranky and ineffective state.<br /><br /><strong>2.&nbsp; Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate</strong></p>
<p>It's OK if you are a person who needs that morning cup of coffee to jump start your day. Just remember to diversify your beverages. Like hot cocoa? Bring some packets to your work station. Green or herbal tea? Good flavor and even some antioxidants, too. Keep a sports bottle handy and sip from it regularly. Dehydration or over-caffeinating yourself will make you feel lousy and you won't get much done on the work front.<br /><br /><strong>3. Take a Walk</strong></p>
<p>Even the busiest people need to stretch their legs now and again. It is not healthy to be sitting all day long. Take a walk up and down the stairs a few times and get the blood moving. Better yet, instead of a sedentary coffee break, walk around the block or in your neighborhood as a 15-minute recharger of your batteries. You'll gain energy and burn some calories along the way.<br /><br /><strong>4. Make Your Work Area Appealing</strong></p>
<p>Whether you have a tiny workstation or a full home office, you should make that environment inviting. Put a photo or two of friends or family where you can see them. Keep a couple of cinnamon sticks or a few fresh flowers from the farmers' market on your desk. You won't break the bank, but you will enjoy the hours when you are working more than before.<br /><br /><strong>5. Talk to Someone</strong></p>
<p>Being productive does not mean being isolated. We all need to talk to people to feel connected. When you get a chance, call a friend for ten minutes or send your hubby an email or text. If you have a coworker you like, ask him or her to come on a walk or lunch break now and then. <br /><br /><strong>6. Reward Yourself</strong></p>
<p>At the end of a long day or week, do something nice for yourself. A night at the movies, a soak in the tub and a glass of Cabernet, or even a manicure--just be sure to enjoy the treat! You've earned it after all.</p><p>--</p><p><i>About the author</i>: <b>Alicia Klepeis</b> is a freelance writer 
living in upstate New York. A former middle school geography teacher, 
she has written for the National Geographic Society, as well as 
magazines including The Dollar Stretcher, Fun For Kidz, Kiki and 
Sprinkles. She also writes for Suite 101. Her website is <a href="http://www.aliciaklepeis.com/" target="_blank">www.aliciaklepeis.com</a>.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>A Comprehensive Guide to Freelance Writing from Home</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/a-comprehensive-guide-to-freelance-writing-from-home.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5672</id>

    <published>2012-04-26T17:29:47Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-26T21:06:38Z</updated>

    <summary>A Comprehensive Guide to Freelance Writing from Home</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Freelance writing from home is a career that has proven to be recession proof, as long as you have the skills to write quality materials. In fact, it was identified as one of the top 10 careers that actually thrived during the Great Depression in the 1930s. With a good command of the rules of grammar and a dash of creativity thrown in, you can make a nice living through freelance writing <a class="autolink" href="http://www.wahm.com/jobs.html">jobs</a>.</p>
<h4>How It Works</h4>
<p>Freelance writing jobs can be short term or long term opportunities. An employer will hire you for an assignment that can vary from writing one or two articles, to writing all of the content for a website launch. Once you have the parameters of the assignment and the deadline, you research the topic(s) and write the contents for the employer. After submitting it to them, they may ask for rewrites. Once the work is completed, they might have more work for you; otherwise, it's back to the search for the next job.</p>
<h4>Building a Portfolio</h4>
<p>Most people hire freelance writers based on a portfolio of published work. This creates an obvious challenge when you're starting out. You may have to do some work for free initially, just so you can get some samples published. A good way to do this is to submit some articles to websites that cover topics that interest you. In the best case scenario, they'll publish it and pay you. If they reject it, you still have a sample you can add to your portfolio - which you can now show to prospective employers. Once you do have some articles published, select the best ones to highlight your skills.</p>
<p><strong>Tip:</strong> Constantly manage your portfolio. If something is outdated or if your skills have improved, shuffle older articles out of your portfolio and newer ones in.</p>
<h4>Finding Work</h4>
<p>The web has opened up a host of new opportunities for freelance writers in the past decade. Services like Elance and Odesk are specifically tailored to put prospective employers and freelance writers in touch with each other. You can also search blogs like FreelanceWritingGigs.com on a daily basis to locate freelance writing jobs online. Don't underestimate the value of repeat work. Send follow-up emails to previous employers on a regular basis, just in case they have additional work.</p>
<h4>Payment</h4>
<p>There are a lot of "content mills" that you can find online. They typically offer 1 cent per word, but offer an unlimited amount of work. That might sound nice, but at the end of the day you'll only end up making about $5 to $8 an hour. You'll be better off if you stand your ground and don't work for less than 2 cents per word. That will bring your hourly minimum up to between $10 and $15 an hour. This is actually more money than it sounds like when you're working from home, because you don't have the expense of a daily commute, wardrobe and so on.</p>
<p>Always come to an agreement of payment terms up front; sometimes it will be a cents-per-word arrangement, or a flat fee per assignment. Set firm deadlines for when the work will be turned in and what you'll be paid for it. You can take payments through whichever option you and the employer are most comfortable with: PayPal, wire transfer or paper check.</p>
<h4>Marketing Your Skills</h4>
<p>Your portfolio is your best friend when it comes to freelance writing jobs. A good shortcut is to build a website showcasing some of your work. You won't attract a lot of business through it, but you can refer prospective employers to your site or blog so they can see your writing style.</p>
<p>You always have to be looking ahead as a freelance writer. You'll be applying for jobs constantly once you get into the groove, so that you don't have any dry spells in between assignments. Set aside time every day to be looking for new work. When you wrap up one assignment, you can then move on to the next.</p>
<p>If you keep your nose to the grindstone, you can initially bring in $1,000 to $1,500 a month at freelance writing from home. It only goes up from there as you improve your skills and land higher-paying clients.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>The Benefits of Incorporating a Fitness Routine into Your Schedule</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/the-benefits-of-incorporating-a-fitness-routine-into-your-schedule.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5670</id>

    <published>2012-02-01T19:35:26Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-26T20:54:40Z</updated>

    <summary>What is the number one cure to many ailments, conditions and health troubles that we have in our society today? If you&apos;ve watched any daytime TV, then you know that the answer is exercise. Exercise is the key to a...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Work-Life Balance" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>What is the number one cure to many ailments, conditions and health troubles that we have in our society today? If you've watched any daytime TV, then you know that the answer is exercise. Exercise is the key to a healthier, happier and hopefully longer life. Still, some of us don't work a <strong>fitness routine</strong> into our insanely busy schedules and that is usually because working-out takes planning, which takes time that we don't really have... If all these reasons to exercise haven't motivated you yet, read about some other benefits that are specifically for moms:</p>
<h4>A Sharper Mind</h4>
<p>Researchers at the University of South Carolina conducted studies on mice, determining that as little as 30 minutes of jogging a day can spur the creation of new brain cells, further meaning a significant reduction in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. What does this mean for WAHMs? Your brain get's a workout just as much as the rest of your body, meaning all those memories you're making with your kids will stick around longer and you'll be more mentally sharp for your clients.</p>
<h4>Me Time</h4>
<p>Let's be honest, "me time" for moms is almost unheard of. We're more likely to see a unicorn than be able to go to the bathroom alone. Why not take advantage of the daycare at the gym and join a class a couple of times a week? It's a start, and that's key. Exercising can be one of those things that you don't necessarily want to do initially, but it always makes you feel better when you've done it. And, we all know what the other one is...</p>
<h4>New Friendships</h4>
<p>You may also find a local meetup group where moms take a class, walk, dance, or Zumba. If you can't find one, create one. Chances are, there are other moms who are looking for the exact same thing you are. Not only will you get to enjoy a slimmer figure, more energy, and a healthier body, but you'll have partners in your mission, which makes things much more fun.</p>
<h4>Become More "Naturally" Happy</h4>
<p>According the some studies, over 10 percent of American women are on antidepressants. The overall use of antidepressants is up 400 percent since the 80's. We are busier, more stressed, our diets come from boxes, and most of us have seemingly lost the use of our legs. With the implementation of simply sweating it out a few times per week, vital hormones are released, making us happier with a better sense of well being. But because we <em>think</em> we don't have time, we take a pill instead, which can cause harmful side effects including weight gain, fatigue and in pregnant women--birth defects.</p>
<h4>The Return of the Bedroom</h4>
<p>Many moms lose their desire for physical intimacy after the birth of children, and just plain ole' fatigue after a long day. A regularly increased heart rate can not only improve your self image, but also leave you feeling more energized, leading to more desire for intimacy with your lucky partner.</p>
<p>--</p>
<p><em>About the Author</em>: Amy Stewart-Wright is an 80' music listening, WAH rockin', outdoor loving, <a href="http://www.moxiemommas.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Momma</a> who lives in North Carolina with her husband and 4 kids. Her dream and passion is to inspire thousands of women to find their passions and live their happiest life.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>What to Do If You Lose Your Temper with Your Children</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/what-to-do-if-you-lose-your-temper-with-your-children.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5669</id>

    <published>2012-02-01T19:33:30Z</published>
    <updated>2012-02-29T23:52:02Z</updated>

    <summary>It&apos;s easy to lose your temper when you&apos;re so sleep deprived you can barely stand it. When your third grader dumps a two-liter bottle of soda on the kitchen floor or when a sassy teenager gets lippy for the three...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Parenting" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>It's easy to <strong>lose your temper</strong> when you're so sleep deprived you can barely stand it. When your third grader dumps a two-liter bottle of soda on the kitchen floor or when a sassy teenager gets lippy for the three thousandth time, it's quite easy to do. Sooner or later, you are going to lose your temper. If you are a parent, you're going to blow your cork, have a short fuse or erupt like Mt. Vesuvius. It's part of your child's job description to drive you completely crazy and push you to your breaking point. No one needs to call DSS just yet. Here are some things to do to prevent a temper tantrum, and what to do when it happens:</p>
<div>
<h4>Take a Timeout</h4>
<p>Let's face it, your kids know which buttons to push and precisely when, don't they? If you feel a blowup brewing (before delving out severe punishment, like a lifetime grounding you know you won't stick to) put everyone in timeout, including yourself, before you say a word. Take a bath, read a book, go for a walk or just sit alone for a few minutes and cool off.</p>
<h4>Apologize</h4>
<p>If you lose it, admit it. If you've already had your temper tantrum with your kid(s), it's time for a sit down. After you're calm, apologize and empathize. Tell them why you got frustrated and that you could have handled it better. Once you know better, do better. Screaming at your kids is not cool and will only teach them to yell when they get frustrated--which you will regret.</p>
<h4>Create a Plan</h4>
<p>Before the diaper hits the fan (it's going to), talk about anger and frustration, what it is and how to deal with it. Write down ideas from your kids on what they think should happen when anger strikes. Should one lie down, take a bath, go for a walk or go to their special place in the house? After a cool down, how can someone express their anger in a constructive way? You may get some great ideas. Remember that kids aren't stupid and they'll probably come up with some really great ideas for everyone. Once you make a plan together, everyone will be more likely to use it too.</p>
<h4>Know Your Trigger Points</h4>
<p>What ticks you off more than anything? Is it back-talk, sibling arguing, laziness, bad grades, or disrespect? Find out what your trigger points are and if you don't know how to handle what irritates you, do some research. There are tons of experts with advice. Find one that you can relate to and check it out. Even if you have to invest some money, it's worth your sanity, isn't it?</p>
<p>Parenting is HARD work. You know that. Having a plan makes it a little less ferocious, so go make your plan now for the next time disaster strikes. And when it does, apologize and move on.</p>
<p>--</p>
<p><em>About the Author</em>: Amy Stewart-Wright is an 80' music listening, WAH rockin', outdoor loving, <a href="http://www.moxiemommas.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Momma</a> who lives in North Carolina with her husband and 4 kids. Her dream and passion is to inspire thousands of women to find their passions and live their happiest life.</p>
</div>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>How to Become a Multitasking Master</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/how-to-become-a-multitasking-master.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5668</id>

    <published>2012-01-26T18:00:09Z</published>
    <updated>2012-02-29T23:25:49Z</updated>

    <summary>The kids just got off the bus and, within five minutes, you&apos;re getting snacks, emptying lunch boxes and making suggestions for how to tackle that science project--multitasking is a required skill for a mom. While doing a million things at...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Work-Life Balance" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>The kids just got off the bus and, within five minutes, you're getting snacks, emptying lunch boxes and making suggestions for how to tackle that science project<strong>--multitasking</strong> is a required skill for a mom. While doing a million things at once comes easily to some people, for others it is much more challenging. Here are some multitasking tips for becoming a multitasking master:<br /><br /><strong>Make a Reasonable To-Do List</strong></p>
<p>Being organized is one of the most important multitasking skills. Make a daily or weekly list of things that have to get done, as well as things you'd like to get done. Divide your to-do list into mindless versus mindful tasks.</p>
<p>Mindless tasks include things like emptying the dishwasher, and throwing a load of laundry in the machine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Mindful tasks include helping children with homework, completing a project for work, or getting your financial documents ready for that meeting with your tax preparer. <br /><strong></strong></p>
<p>In order to be an efficient multitasker, you need to choose <a class="autolink" href="http://www.wahm.com/jobs.html">jobs</a> that don't require your full attention. You can fold laundry while calling the plumber or your mother-in-law. You can wipe down the kitchen counter or clip coupons while the pasta is boiling on the stove. Tasks that you can practically do in your sleep are most suited for doing at the same time as other jobs.<br /><br /><strong>Designate Some Venues and Times as Good (or Not-So-Good) Places to Multitask</strong></p>
<p>Is there a time of day where you feel like you are always "killing time"? Waiting in the yard for the school bus to arrive or sitting in the van while you wait for soccer practice to end are perfect examples. Use these times to sort your mail, weed a patch of the garden, or place a phone order for those vacuum bags you've been meaning to order. If your preschoolers love to linger in the tub, that's a perfect time to scrub the toilet, mop the floor, or clean the mirrors in that room.</p>
<p>As a rule, a moving car should be a no-go zone for multitasking. Focusing on traffic, the road and weather conditions, and your family in the car is all you should worry about. Even hands-free talking can be highly distracting, meaning you neither have your full attention on the road nor on the person with whom you are speaking.<br /><br /><strong>Remember That There Are Limitations to What Anyone Can Do Efficiently</strong></p>
<p>People often multitask because they believe that important people are busy people. When you see a businessperson running across the street, trying to hail a cab while carrying on an intense work conversation, don't be convinced that he or she is doing things right. You can't check your email every two minutes and also get several other tasks done at the same time. Multitasking is a term that originated in the computer age. Remember that people are not computers. Give the important tasks and people in your life the time they deserve. And reward yourself for a job well done.</p><p>--</p><p><i>About the author</i>: <b>Alicia Klepeis</b> is a freelance writer 
living in upstate New York. A former middle school geography teacher, 
she has written for the National Geographic Society, as well as 
magazines including The Dollar Stretcher, Fun For Kidz, Kiki and 
Sprinkles. She also writes for Suite 101. Her website is <a href="http://www.aliciaklepeis.com/" target="_blank">www.aliciaklepeis.com</a>.</p>]]>
        
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</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Small Business Ideas: Legal Transcription from Home</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/small-business-ideas-legal-transcription-from-home.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5667</id>

    <published>2012-01-18T18:00:00Z</published>
    <updated>2012-03-27T23:36:31Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[Legal Transcription from home&nbsp; involves good typing skills and a keen eye for detail. As the court system continues to slow down due to increasing caseloads, law firms need the services of legal transcriptionists more and more. The growth outlook...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p><strong>Legal Transcription from home&nbsp;</strong> involves good typing skills and a keen eye for detail. As the court system continues to slow down due to increasing caseloads, law firms need the services of legal transcriptionists more and more. The growth outlook in this field is especially good for the next few years, and that means the fees that transcriptionists charge will likely be going up as well. Here's what you need to know about being a legal transcriptionist.</p>
<p><strong>What a Legal Transcriptionist Does<br /></strong></p>
<p>A legal transcriptionist listens to different types of court proceedings and types a transcript of them. These can include depositions, legal memos, correspondence and other things that happen around a court case. The type of shorthand that court reporters use is unnecessary; a transcriptionist types up the documents using a regular computer keyboard. It also entails proofreading the work for accuracy.</p>
<p>Additional duties that some transcriptionists provide include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tracking the dates of court hearings</li>
<li>Organizing documents</li>
<li>Managing a filing system for a law firm</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Fast Writing Skills Necessary<br /></strong></p>
<p>A transcriptionist needs to be a fast and accurate typist. The task will entail the use of transcribing software; this often includes a foot pedal that's used in conjunction with the audio recordings. The pedal can stop and start the audio as you're typing. A clear understanding of the English language is needed, and knowledge of common legal terminology is a plus.</p>
<p><strong>Programs to Learn the Transcribing "Know How"<br /></strong></p>
<p>You won't find a specific degree program for legal transcriptionists. There are, however, programs available at many community colleges and vocational/technical schools that you can take. These will teach you how to use the software and other skills that are necessary for working as a transcriptionist.</p>
<p><strong>Marketing Your Services</strong></p>
<p>The best way to drum up business for yourself as a transcriptionist is to open your local Yellow Pages to the legal section. You can pitch yourself to local law firms over the phone or through email. Let them know your rates and the volume of work that you can handle. Don't be discouraged if the first few calls don't produce results. Law firms are overworked, and you'll eventually find someone who needs a legal transcription service to help with their case volume.</p>
<p><strong>Income Potential</strong></p>
<p>There's no salary information available for legal transcriptionists. It's a field that the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't track. Most transcriptionists report making between $20,000 and $60,000, but these are salaries for individuals who work at law firms. Your income potential could be higher or lower based on your skills and reputation, and the rates you charge. Many legal firms are willing to set up an online payment system for invoicing, or you can go the traditional route and bill them on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for a paper check.</p>
<p><strong>Know What You're Getting Into<br /></strong></p>
<p>While performing transcribing <a class="autolink" href="http://www.wahm.com/jobs.html">jobs</a> for criminal cases might sound glamorous, there are a few things that you should know. The real details of many violent crimes are often too gruesome to make it on the nightly news. If you choose to work with criminal lawyers, you could be listening to audio recordings that describe rapes, crimes against children and murders. If you're squeamish about these things, you might want to stay away from this particular field of law.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Tough Choices: 5 Decision Making Skills and Techniques</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/tough-choices-5-decision-making-skills-and-techniques.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5666</id>

    <published>2012-01-12T18:00:08Z</published>
    <updated>2012-02-01T19:58:37Z</updated>

    <summary>Sometimes making a decision stinks. You may question yourself before arriving at a final conclusion, especially if you&apos;ve made a few bad decisions in your past. Read our tips below to learn a few ways for weighing your choices. 1....</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Work-Life Balance" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Sometimes <strong>making a decision</strong> stinks. You may question yourself before arriving at a final conclusion, especially if you've made a few bad decisions in your past. Read our tips below to learn a few ways for weighing your choices.</p>
<p><strong>1. Ask Yourself "What Will This Decision Mean in 5 Years?"</strong></p>
<p>Put things in perspective so you don't get hung up on the small stuff. For instance, if I'm trying to choose between a cheeseburger and fries or a grilled chicken breast with veggies for lunch--not that big of a deal in the grand scheme of things. Unless, of course, I decide to eat that cheeseburger every single day, then I won't be able to fit in the chair I'm sitting in right now. If a decision really won't affect your happiness or the happiness of others too drastically in 5 years, try not to dwell on it.</p>
<p><strong>2. Match Your Decisions to Your Goals</strong></p>
<p>Some decisions have longer lasting results and will affect your life for many years to come. These are the dilemmas that get so many of us stuck in life. So stuck, in fact, that sometimes we make no decision at all and live by default. We just wait until something happens to us.&nbsp; If you know what you want your life to be like in the next several years, even loosely, write it down. When you have big decisions to make, whip that list out and take inventory. Does this decision align with where you want to be in several years? No? Ditch it!</p>
<p><strong>3. Take Inventory of Your Feelings</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />If you sit still for just a moment, close your eyes and think, your intuition will guide you. Don't ignore your intuition. Many times, on paper, everything tells us option "A" is the way to go. But if your gut won't let you rest until you choose option "B," maybe your spirit is guiding you to something greater. As very busy, work-at-home women, we can't very often slow down to breathe, let alone meditate in silence. Even if you have to do it in the locked bathroom, get some quiet time to just think. It will do wonders.<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>4. Wait</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />We aren't talking forever, but some decisions make themselves. When our youngest started walking recently, I stressed over the decision to put her in preschool or daycare for a few days a week so I could work without having to worry about her getting into things. I dragged my feet, weighed some options, but couldn't really settle on a final decision. One morning I was on a conference call and my daughter walked up to me diaperless and handed me a gift. It was poop! In my hand! I had forgotten to re-diaper her before getting on my call. She started preschool two weeks ago.<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>5. Get Guidance</strong><br />&nbsp;<br />No matter how amazing we are (and we totally are!), it can help to ask friends, family or a life coach for outside perspective if you can't find any yourself. A fresh set of eyes may see a simple solution that escapes you when the pressure's on and you feel trapped between a rock and a hard place.<br /><br />--<br /><br /><em>About the Author</em>: Amy Stewart-Wright is an 80' music listening, WAH rockin', outdoor loving, <a href="http://www.moxiemommas.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Momma</a> who lives in North Carolina with her husband and 4 kids. Her dream and passion is to inspire thousands of women to find their passions and live their happiest life.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>A Comprehensive Guide to Online Tutoring Jobs</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/a-comprehensive-guide-to-online-tutoring-jobs.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2012://2.5665</id>

    <published>2012-01-04T18:00:00Z</published>
    <updated>2012-01-26T18:27:13Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[Online tutoring jobs serve a dual purpose. The tutor benefits by earning an income doing something they are passionate about, and the student receives the teaching necessary to progress and succeed academically in a particular subject.&nbsp; What Is Online Tutoring?...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p><strong>Online tutoring <a class="autolink" href="http://www.wahm.com/jobs.html">jobs</a> </strong>serve a dual purpose. The tutor benefits by earning an income doing something they are passionate about, and the student receives the teaching necessary to progress and succeed academically in a particular subject.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>What Is Online Tutoring?</strong></p>
<p>Online tutoring is a supplemental education tool to enhance learning via the internet, with a specific tutor. It helps students improve their skills in a specific subject in which they are having trouble, or it helps an eager student further their education.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Subject Specialties</strong></p>
<p>As you begin your new business, decide what age range you plan to tutor, the most common being middle school, high school or adult. Are you qualified to teach special needs students? Next, decide what subject you are most qualified to tutor. Interestingly, the most popular subjects for online tutor jobs, in order of popularity, are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Math, specifically Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry and Calculus</li>
<li>English, specifically Grammar, Essay writing, Literature Analysis, Vocabulary and Communications Skills &nbsp;</li>
<li>Science, specifically Biology, Chemistry and Physics</li>
</ul>
<p>Start your tutoring online jobs with the age level and subject matter that you know best and expand further, once you have a comfortably established client base.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Tutoring Rates, Payment Options&nbsp;</strong><strong>and Income Potential</strong></p>
<p>The average&nbsp;rate for a tutoring session, Math, English and Science, is $20 per hour, but can run as high as $50 per hour, based on education, experience and demographics. English tutors frequently offer additional proofreading services at $2.00 to $5.00 per page.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Session-by-session, weekly or monthly payment options must be considered and agreed upon before each new tutoring job<strong>&nbsp;</strong>begins.&nbsp;Monthly billing statements can be mailed to clients for payment. PayPal is a popular payment system and allows payments to be easily transferred directly into your account. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The Start-Up</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Design a website so potential clients can find your tutoring business. Engage a web designer, if necessary, to optimize your business exposure on the web.</li>
<li>Promote the site to ensure a boost on search engines; use relevant keywords in the first few sentences on your site.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Market your online tutoring services by visiting guidance counselors at local middle and high schools. Solicit client referrals and leave business cards for them to distribute when a parent inquires about a reliable tutoring service.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Be sure to check state and local laws for any specific certifications you need to tutor local students.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Necessary Session Preparation</strong></p>
<p>The format in which you choose to tutor varies based on the tools you own and feel comfortable using. Skype is a strong option for computer-to-computer communication. Instant messaging and other chat programs&nbsp;work&nbsp;in some circumstances.</p>
<p>There are many different curriculums offered within each state. Not every school district within a state uses the same curriculum. Research the products and do not purchase any curriculum software until you have secured clients.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The Importance of Networking</strong></p>
<p>Keeping the lines of communication open with local schools and current and past students will help to keep online enrollment at an optimal level. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Online tutoring employment is a rewarding and lucrative experience as you guide the educational journey of your students to the next level of confidence.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Relax, Already! 6 Ways to Reduce Stress Now</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/relax-already-6-ways-to-reduce-stress-now.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2011://2.5664</id>

    <published>2011-12-28T18:00:00Z</published>
    <updated>2012-01-18T18:01:41Z</updated>

    <summary>As a mom who manages kids, a home and a business- all under one roof, it&apos;s completely expected to feel some level of stress... or insanity! Especially if you haven&apos;t hired help and you&apos;re doing it all on your own,...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Work-Life Balance" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>As a mom who manages kids, a home and a business- all under one roof, it's completely expected to feel some level of stress... or insanity! Especially if you haven't hired help and you're doing it all on your own, the key is reducing stress and learning to relax daily.<br /><br />1. <strong>Keep it simple</strong><br /><br />Grand rituals and expensive treatments aren't necessary. Of course if you can afford it and time permits, go for that day at the spa and drink wine while you're at it! But stress relief can be as simple as a hot bath (without the kids beating on the door) and new toenail polish. You'd be amazed at how great shaven legs feel!<br /><br />2. <strong>Appeal to all of your senses</strong><br /><br />Light incense and take a few deep breaths. Eat a candy bar. Listen to 80's music. Look through family photos. Have one of the kids brush your hair. Anything you can do to awaken your senses will melt away your stresses like ice cream in a toddler's hand.<br /><br />3. <strong>We are creators</strong><br /><br />We have a uterus for a reason! Creating is in our DNA. If you enjoy crafting, painting, photography, writing, gardening... do it! You don't have to be Van Gogh to finger-paint with your pre-schooler. You'll probably enjoy it so much you'll keep doing it.<br /><br />4. <strong>Play</strong><br /><br />Just because you are an adult, doesn't mean you should be boring. Don't forget to have fun! Do it every day. Put it on your calendar if you have to. What would make your kids laugh? Dancing in the kitchen? A water fight? A game? Find things that you think are fun to do with the family and do them! It's very hard to remember your deadlines and demands when you're nailing your kid in the ear with a water blaster!<br /><br />Leaving your house is never a bad idea either. If you live, work, eat, sleep and play in the same environment, every single hour, of every single day, it helps to gather some girlfriends and dance. Go to a concert, go shopping, go to a movie.<br /><br />5. <strong>Sweat a bit</strong><br /><br />Time alone is a great excuse for not working out. A close second is embarrassment and/or intimidation. Who really wants to go walk on a treadmill for an hour next to some size 2,twenty-something in spandex shorts and a sports bra? That probably adds to your stress level!<br /><br />Stick with what you know. Go outside, jump on the trampoline, play basketball or tennis. Get out there and do it a few times a week. If you can't get outside, get a game that requires you to move. Including your kids ensures you'll commit. Once you tell them you're playing tag with them twice a week, they won't let you forget it. Ever.<br /><br />6. <strong>Laugh</strong><br /><br />Look around you. Take stock of the wonderful things in your life. Sometimes it's as simple as watching your kids run around in their toilet paper capes with carrots in their noses.</p>
<p>--</p>
<p>Amy Stewart-Wright is an 80' music listening, WAH rockin', outdoor loving, <a href="http://www.moxiemommas.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Momma</a> who lives in North Carolina with her husband and 4 kids. Her dream and passion is to inspire thousands of women to find their passions and live their happiest life.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Working from Home Ideas: Starting a Childcare Business</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/working-from-home-ideas-starting-a-childcare-business.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2011://2.5663</id>

    <published>2011-12-21T19:01:13Z</published>
    <updated>2012-01-18T17:56:26Z</updated>

    <summary>If you enjoy working with kids, starting a childcare business may be a good option for you. As more and more families become dual income households, the need for quality childcare is in high demand. Just be sure to know...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>If you enjoy working with kids, <strong>starting a childcare business</strong> may be a good option for you. As more and more families become dual income households, the need for quality childcare is in high demand. Just be sure to know all the ins and outs of the business before you get started.<br /><br /><strong>What Home Childcare Involves</strong><br /><br />Sitting on the floor building a block tower. Reading <em>Goodnight Moon</em> dozens of times. Changing diapers. Getting several kids fed and to sleep. This is all in a day's work for a childcare provider. The pros of this work are watching and facilitating kids as they grow and change, during a vital stage of development. The cons can be the repetitive nature of taking care of little children and meeting their needs. In 2008, a home-based child care provider could expect to earn about $9.12 per hour, or $19,000 per year.<br /><br /><strong>What You'll Need to Start a Childcare Business</strong><br /><br />In order to run a childcare business from your home, you'll need plenty of space for the children to play, learn, eat and sleep. You'll also need toys, books and games to help children learn and develop new skills. You should get CPR and first aid certified, in case of an emergency. Be sure to childproof your home--cover electrical sockets, cushion sharp corners and put breakable items out of reach.<br /><br /><strong>Learn about State Regulations</strong><br /><br />You'll need to check with the local regulatory agencies to find out what the rules are for running a childcare business from your home.</p>
<p>There are minimum requirements for the size of the rooms you are using, which include:</p>
<ul>
<li>How many children you may have in your care (teacher-student ratio)</li>
<li>Whether you need to have an in-home nurse, home daycare license, etc.</li>
</ul>
<p>Home safety inspections and criminal record checks are common requirements for childcare providers. It's best to know all about the variety of rules and regulations before you start your business so things run smoothly.<br /><br /><strong>Drum up Business</strong><br /><br />Do you have friends who currently use childcare services? Ask for their feedback--what they like, don't like, how much they pay for the care, and so on.</p>
<p>Place an advertisement in your local paper. Place an ad on the bulletin board at your local coffee shop, public library or some of the churches in town. Hold an open house at your new childcare business. Let parents get to know you. They will want to trust you before enrolling their children in your program. <br /><br /><strong>Websites and Social Media</strong><br /><br />In this age of technology it is vital to create a website for your home-based childcare center. Show the rooms, toys and activities you'll use (hopefully featuring light, cheerful colors).</p>
<p>Explain your philosophy on discipline and learning, as well as policies you want parents to understand. Having a concise section with your fees is a good idea. Contact your local Facebook or Twitter friends and encourage them to check out your new website. <br /><br />Even in this difficult economy, there is great need for quality childcare. If you enjoy working with kids and being your own boss, starting a childcare business may be great for you.</p>
<p>--</p>
<p><em>About the author</em>: <strong>Alicia Klepeis</strong> is a freelance writer living in upstate New York. A former middle school geography teacher, she has written for the National Geographic Society, as well as magazines including The Dollar Stretcher, Fun For Kidz, Kiki and Sprinkles. She also writes for Suite 101. Her website is <a href="http://www.aliciaklepeis.com/" target="_blank">www.aliciaklepeis.com</a>.</p>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Jetting Ahead: 5 Ways to Achieve Your Next Goal</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/jetting-ahead-5-ways-to-achieve-your-next-goal.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2011://2.5662</id>

    <published>2011-12-14T19:56:09Z</published>
    <updated>2012-01-04T19:10:19Z</updated>

    <summary>&quot;What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.&quot; -Zig Ziglar. What sets successful people apart from the others? What makes people happier, more accomplished and respected by their peers?...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA["What you get by <b>achieving your goals</b> is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals." -Zig Ziglar. <br /><br />What sets successful people apart from the others? What makes people happier, more accomplished and respected by their peers? Even if they first come in the form of wishes, dreams, wants or desires, it's important to always strive to achieve some type of goal.&nbsp; Oftentimes, as busy moms, we work at achieving dozens of goals at once.<br /><br />Here are 5 ways to jet ahead and make your goals a reality:<br /><br /><b>1. Make them Tangible</b><br /><br />Type out a list to print, write it in your journal, or publish them on your blog. Get your goals out of your head and onto something tangible that you can refer back to. Otherwise it's like going into a grocery store without a list, blindfolded. Having your goals front and center daily, will help you create a plan to reach them and help you make important decisions along the way.<br /><br /><b>2. Give Yourself a Deadline</b><br /><br />We are a society of procrastinators. Have you ever gone to the mall on Christmas Eve? Of course you have. You and the other 75,000 people trying to get the last leopard print Snuggie! Without a goal for your goal, it's just another 'someday' project. Give yourself a deadline. Put it on your calendar and work backward, adding things monthly.<br /><br /><b>3. Break It Down</b><br /><br />Some goals are so huge and daunting and scary that we think about them and just freeze. Something like a career or relationship change or a business idea can make some people stop in their tracks. If you don't know where to start, that's a great place to start! Research has never been easier. Google things or go to a library (yes, we still have those) and find out everything that you can. No one is going to change your life for you, sister. Write down everything that you need to do and take regular steps to cross things off of that list.<br /><br /><b>4. Support Is Essential</b><br /><br />Know anyone who got where they wanted to be by hanging out with Negative Nancy's? Surround yourself with like-minded, positive people. If you can't find anyone in your current circle, or you're new to an area, start your own club. Websites like www.foundingmoms.com are an excellent resource for finding or creating your own Meetup group. You'd be amazed how much more accountable you are to your goals when you share them with friends and collaborate on each others' ideas.<br /><br /><b>5. Believe in Yourself</b><br /><br />No matter what your religious affiliation or belief system, you have to have faith in yourself and your dreams. Have faith that all that you are given along the way to your goals, is meant for your growth and improvement. After all, what fun would it be to have everything handed to you?<p>--</p><p><em>About the author</em>: <strong>Amy Stewart-Wright</strong> is an 80' music listening, WAH rockin', outdoor loving, <a href="http://www.moxiemommas.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Momma</a>
 who lives in North Carolina with her husband and 4 kids. Her dream and 
passion is to inspire thousands of women to find their passions and live
 their happiest life.</p>]]>
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<entry>
    <title>How to Know if Going Back to School Is the Right Choice</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/how-to-know-if-going-back-to-school-is-the-right-choice.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2011://2.5661</id>

    <published>2011-12-07T18:00:00Z</published>
    <updated>2011-12-28T18:32:28Z</updated>

    <summary>Making the decision to return to school is a big one. Many people dream about new careers, whether because of boredom, desire for more money, or pursuing a passion they&apos;ve had for ages. How do you know if going back...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Business Opportunities" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Making the decision to <strong>return to school</strong> is a big one. Many people dream about new careers, whether because of boredom, desire for more money, or pursuing a passion they've had for ages. How do you know if going back to school is the right decision for you? Ask yourself why are you considering going back to school. If several of the following answers ring true, going back to school may well be the right choice for you:</p>
<p><strong>You Are Motivated by Your Own Passion</strong></p>
<p>Many factors motivate people to return to school. Perhaps you are aiming for a promotion at your current job. Perhaps you hate your job now and want a more stimulating career. You might even be close to retirement but want to try a career you've always dreamed about. Be sure that you go back to school for yourself, that you are truly motivated and not being pressured by others. It is your effort that will see you through to complete your new degree.</p>
<p><strong>This New Career Is in a Growing Field</strong></p>
<p>With the state of the economy these days, it is essential to consider your job prospects when you complete your degree. Maybe you've always wanted to be a chef (or zookeeper, college professor, etc.) but there are not many businesses hiring in that field. Know the job market. Do your research. Look at the projections of the fields that will likely grow in the coming years. Accounting, computer software engineering and registered nursing are some up-and-coming fields.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>You Can Afford to Go Back to School</strong></p>
<p>Everyone knows that higher education is not free, or even cheap, for that matter. How will you pay for school? Be sure to do your homework on financial aid-- grants, student loans, and even pay-as-you-go options are available, depending on where you do your studies. Just be careful not to use your emergency fund or retirement savings to fund your schooling. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement to their employees (just be sure to check if you have to maintain a certain G.P.A. to keep your funding). And borrow only as much as you feel comfortable borrowing. After all, you are the one who will have to repay your debts when you've completed your degree.</p>
<p><strong>It's the Right Time for You to Be a Student</strong></p>
<p>While investing in your education is one of the best things you can do for yourself, you must think about the practical side of being a student. Will you have the time you need to go to class, read, study, and complete your assignments? Do you have small children who will need to be looked after? Do you have supportive people in your life to keep you healthy and motivated when the stress of school kicks in? While you are the one going back to school, you'll want to pursue your studies when it fits in with the rest of your life outside school. Some programs allow students to do much of their coursework online, which works well for people with complicated schedules. Other degree or certificate programs require a certain number of hours/weekends on campus. Seek out programs that fit in well with your lifestyle. With some hard work, you will feel fantastic as you take the steps necessary in pursuing your new career.</p><p>--</p><p><i>About the author</i>: <b>Alicia Klepeis</b> is a freelance writer 
living in upstate New York. A former middle school geography teacher, 
she has written for the National Geographic Society, as well as 
magazines including The Dollar Stretcher, Fun For Kidz, Kiki and 
Sprinkles. She also writes for Suite 101. Her website is <a href="http://www.aliciaklepeis.com/" target="_blank">www.aliciaklepeis.com</a>.</p>]]>
        
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<entry>
    <title>Better Late than Never: Why it&apos;s Okay to be a Late Bloomer</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.wahm.com/articles/better-late-than-never-why-its-okay-to-be-a-late-bloomer.html" />
    <id>tag:www.wahm.com,2011://2.5659</id>

    <published>2011-11-23T22:50:38Z</published>
    <updated>2011-12-14T20:46:26Z</updated>

    <summary>Are you doing something that you love to do in your career? If not, do you worry that your opportunities are gone forever? If you&apos;re still breathing, it&apos;s never too late to make a change. By high school, most of...</summary>
    <author>
        <name></name>
        <uri>http://www.wahm.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2&amp;id=11</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Small Business Ideas" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://www.wahm.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Are you doing something that you love to do in your career? If not, do you worry that your opportunities are gone forever? If you're still breathing, it's <strong>never too late</strong> to make a change. By high school, most of my close friends had their career goals figured out. I didn't. In fact, I didn't really get a feel for what I <em>really</em> <em>wanted</em> to do until I hit my thirties.</p>
<p><strong>Stop Making Excuses</strong></p>
<p>I think a lot of people have this epiphany at a time in which they already have a mortgage, a spouse, kids and several excuses why they "can't make a change". They think they have security in that corporate job with a 401k, so they stick it out in misery. Let's not forget those "secure" <a class="autolink" href="http://www.wahm.com/jobs.html">jobs</a> in the last several years, well, haven't been so secure after all.</p>
<p><strong>Change Your Life-Style</strong></p>
<p>What do you have to lose? Let's think of a worst case scenario for a moment. What if you gave up your big fancy home and dinners out 3 times a week in exchange for happiness? Do you really need that weekly mani-pedi? Can you sell some things, downgrade your car or work out at home versus that gym membership? Give up the "stuff". That's not where your happiness is. What would you do if you could do anything at all? Would you write children's books? Paint? Coach people on how to become better spouses, parents or business owners? Think big. Would that dream be worth giving up a few luxuries temporarily?</p>
<p><strong>Can You Afford <em>Not</em> To</strong></p>
<p>Our society sometimes sees a mid-life career change as a sign of failure. I'm from the camp who says that dreading your workday and sounding like Eeyore is a sign of failure. Erase "I can't" from your vocabulary. Sometimes our misery is a direct result of unfulfilled dreams, hopes and wishes. There is no such thing as too late and sometimes you have to do something that you hate in order to find and appreciate something that you love. That tip applies in all areas of life--marriage, careers, living situations and the like. Rainbows are much brighter against a gray sky.</p>
<p><strong>The Journey Really Is the Reward</strong></p>
<p>In my quest for a life fulfilled, I feel like the dead-end jobs, stupid projects and misplaced careers all led to where I am today--in a business that truly makes me happy. It's like everything that I ever did up to this point groomed me for greatness. Even if you are miserable now, know that it's not forever if you don't <em>let</em> it be forever. Be happy where you are but work on where you are going. There are lessons to be learned right now. Find the good in everything. Making a career change can't be a negative thing if it makes you feel alive inside. If you're still breathing, it's never too late to make a change.</p><p>--</p><p><em>About the author</em>: <strong>Amy Stewart-Wright</strong> is an 80' music listening, WAH rockin', outdoor loving, <a href="http://www.moxiemommas.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Momma</a>
 who lives in North Carolina with her husband and 4 kids. Her dream and 
passion is to inspire thousands of women to find their passions and live
 their happiest life.</p>]]>
        
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</entry>

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