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The behaviour change industry
IN 2017, behavioural economist Richard Thaler won the Nobel Prize in Economics for his groundbreaking work on how people make irrational choices and how their behaviour can be modified to help them make better decisions. Cass Sunstein and Thaler’s book, Nudge, opens with an illustrative example of a woman who experiments with the layout of food in cafeterias to help kids make healthy food choices — for example, placing carrots rather than French fries at eye level.
Thaler’s work was instrumental in exploring how public policy can be leveraged to manipulate human behaviour for better outcomes. Governments around the world formed ‘nudge units’ to prod their citizens towards making better decisions — from quitting cigarettes to reducing energy consumption. However, detractors, fearing the encroachment of the state into their personal lives, criticised the idea of nudges as a policy instrument for promoting government paternalism, infantilising people and diminishing autonomy.
Thaler’s applications of nudging seem well-intentioned — notwithstanding the psychological manipulation aspect — when compared to the greater threat we now confront: the nefarious and covert behaviour modification we are constantly subject to as we interact with digital technology.
At some point, most of us have wondered whether the microphones on our devices are spying on us. For example, shortly after discussing a particular clothing store with a friend, an advertisement for that very store has popped up on your Facebook newsfeed.
So what is the endgame for the technology sector, and why is the data it has collected so precious?
This is not so much proof that our devices are recording our conversations, but rather that Big Tech has collected such vast and comprehensive data on us — the websites we visit, what we like and comment on, our physical locations, how long we spent inside a particular store or restaurant, what we search for on Google, the apps we use, the list is endless — that they are now able to predict our thoughts and behaviour with terrifying accuracy.
In the last few years, Facebook and Google have become notorious for this practice. As their business model centres on advertising revenue, they collect user data and use it to target personalised advertisements. There have been countless protests, investigations, lawsuits, and US Senate hearings highlighting these issues, but little real progress has been made on protecting user privacy and autonomy.
So what is the endgame for the technology sector, and why is the data it has collected so precious? Harvard Business School’s Shoshana Zuboff quotes a senior software engineer as saying, “The real power is that now you can modify real-time actions in the real world.” The goal is not just to use data to find patterns and predict behaviour, but ultimately to modify behaviour. This behaviour modification can be to increase advertising revenue by getting more clicks, drive more sales with targeted advertisements, sway public opinion on policy issues or manipulate electoral outcomes.
Facebook demonstrated its ability to control users for the first time back in 2014. In a secret experiment, Facebook altered newsfeeds to observe users’ responses to various stimuli — a process it referred to as “emotional contagion”. The results showed that the social media giant was effectively able to manipulate the thoughts and behaviours of its users. This underscored the immense power technology platforms hold, and their ability to conduct psychological and social experiments at any time without their users knowing.
Fast forward to 2018. Cambridge Analytica, self-described as a “behaviour change company”, secretly collected data on millions of American Facebook users to build in-depth personality profiles and understand what triggers them. This allowed them to modify behaviour, manipulate votes and sway the 2016 presidential election. As whistleblower Christopher Wiley put it, Cambridge Analytica was “playing with the psychology of an entire country without their consent”.
As this scandal was exposed, there was public outrage. People were shocked when they discovered how their data could be misused. In truth, this has been standard practice in the technology sector for years; business models are built around it.
All of us who interact with digital technologies have virtual identities or psychographic profiles that shadow us online. These are created from the vast amounts of data collected on us. This includes what we click on, what we search on Google, our GPS coordinates, what we eat, buy, read and share, our demographic data, and so on. Based on these profiles, personalised information, advertisements and behavioural nudges are targeted towards us. Hence, we often see an advertisement that is so on the mark we feel our devices must be watching and listening.
Many lay users assume these issues do not affect them — ‘I have nothing to hide’ or ‘I am not important enough for data to be collected on me’. The excitement around new technology, the research that goes into making digital interfaces more and more addictive, and the secrecy of the technology sector have lulled users into complacency.
While the idea of nudges as a public policy tool created fears of the nanny state, the power of the technology sector to modify user behaviour is far more frightening in its scale and efficacy. Technology platforms have greater reach than any national government — and their singular motive is profit maximisation.
What companies like the Big Tech are doing — manipulating thoughts and actions ranging from consumer behaviour to voting patterns — has proven successful not just in the digitally advanced Western world, but also across the developing world. As the Pakistani state expands its use of technology, social media and digital surveillance tools, citizens must be aware of the risks they face online. For anyone who believes in the basic human rights of privacy, autonomy and self-determination, this should be a wake-up call.
The writer is a development practitioner.
Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2019 ∞
Salary increment letter
Sub: Increase in emoluments
Mr ABC Talwar is working with XYZ Corporation Limited as General Manager (Finance ) since 19th January, 2011. He has already put in 1 Year and 3 months satisfactorily.
In view of above, it is suggested that we may give increase of Rs. _________ as a personal pay with effect from 1stApril, 2013.
For,
XYZ Corporation Ltd.
How to wind up a company?
How to wind up a company? It is a very important question which a professional must know the answer of.
I am sharing here some useful guide for the procedure and legal requirements to wind up a company. I hope that it will be equally useful for the professionals and students of Chartered Accountancy.
The term ‘winding up’ of a company may be defined as the proceedings by which a company is dissolved (i.e. the life of a company is put to an end). Thus, the winding up is the process of putting an end to the life of the company. And during this process, the assets of the company are disposed of, the debts of the company are paid off out of the realized assets or from the contributories and if any surplus is left, it is distributed among the members in proportion to their shareholding in the company. The winding up of the company is also called the ‘liquidation’ of the company. The process of winding up begins after the Court passes the order for winding up or a resolution is passed for voluntary winding up. The company is dissolved after completion of the winding up proceedings. On the dissolution, the company ceases to exist. So, the legal procedure by which the existence of an incorporated company is brought to an end is known as winding up.
Modes of winding up
The winding up of a company may be either-
(i) by the Court; or
(ii) voluntary; or
(iii) subject to the supervision of the Court
- PROCEDURE FOR WINDING UP OF COMPANY AND FILING OF PETITION BEFORE RESPECTIVE HIGH COURT:
-
- To pass Special Resolution by 3/4th majority of the members of the company
that the company be wound up by the Court in case if the company itself intend
to file a petition and to file the Special Resolution on Form 26 with the
registrar. - To prepare a list of the assets to ascertain that the company is unable to pay its
debts. - To prepare a list of the creditors
- In case of defaults in payments the creditor or creditors to make a decision for
the filing of the winding up petition. - In case if the Commission or Registrar or a person authorised by the
Commission intend to file a petition, they should not file a petition, for winding
up of the company, unless an investigation into the affairs of the company has
revealed that it was formed for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose or that it is
carrying on a business not authorised by its memorandum or that its business
is
being conducted in a manner oppressive to any of its management has been
guilty of fraud, misfeasance or other misconduct towards the company or
towards any of its members. - To engage advocates for the preparation and filing of the petition.
- To pass Special Resolution by 3/4th majority of the members of the company
- PROCEDURE FOR VOLUNTARY WINDING UP
The following steps are to be taken for Member’s voluntary winding up under the Provisions of the Ordinance, and the Companies Rules.
Step 1. Where it is proposed to wind up a company voluntarily, its directors make a declaration of solvency on Form 107 prescribed under Rule 269 of the Rules duly supported by an auditors report and make a decision in their meeting that the proposal to this effect may be submitted to the shareholders. They, then, call a general meeting (Annual or Extra Ordinary) of the members (Section 362 of the Ordinance)
Step 2. The company, on the recommendations of directors, decides that the company be wound up voluntarily and passes a Special Resolution, in general meeting (Annual or Extra Ordinary) appoints a liquidator and fixes his remuneration. On the appointment of liquidator, the Board of directors ceases to exist. (Sections 358 and 364 of the Ordinance)
Step 3. Notice of resolution shall be notified in official Gazette within 10 days and also published in the newspapers simultaneously. A copy of it is to be filed with registrar also. (Section 361 of the Ordinance)
Step 4. Notice of appointment or change of liquidator is to be given to registrar by the company alongwith his consent within 10 days of the event. (Section 366 of the Ordinance)
Step 5. Every liquidator shall, within fourteen days of his appointment, publish in the official Gazette, and deliver to the registrar for registration, a notice of his appointment under section 389 of the Ordinance on Form 110 prescribed under Rule 271 of the Rules.
Step 6. If liquidator feels that full claims of the creditors cannot be met, he must call a meeting of creditors and place before them a statement of assets and liabilities. (Section 368 of the Ordinance)
Step 7. A return of convening the creditors meeting together with the notice of meeting etc. shall be filed by the liquidator with the registrar, within 10 days of the date of meeting. (Section 368 of the Ordinance)
Step 8. If the winding up continues beyond one year, the liquidator should summon a general meeting at the end of each year and make an application to the Court seeking extension of time. (Section 387(5) of the Ordinance)
Step 9. A return of convening of each general meeting together with a copy of the notice, accounts statement and minutes of meeting should be filed with the registrar within 10 days of the date of meeting. (Section 369 of the Ordinance)
Step 10. As soon as affairs of the company are fully wound up, the liquidator shall make a report and account of winding up, call a final meeting of members, notice of convening of final meeting on Form 111 prescribed under Rule 279 of the Rules before which the report / accounts shall be placed. (Section 370 of the Ordinance)
Step 11. A notice of such meeting shall be published in the Gazette and newspapers at least10 days before the date of meeting. (Section 370 of the Ordinance).
Step 12. Within a week after the meeting, the liquidator shall send to the registrar a copy of the report and accounts on Form 112 prescribed under Rule 279 of the Rules. (Section 370 of the Ordinance)
- PROCEDURE FOR CREDITOR’S VOLUNTARY WINDING UP
Step 1. First of all, the company passes a special resolution in the general
meeting of the members of the company for which following steps are to taken:
- Board of Directors approves the agenda of the general meeting especially the draft special resolution for winding up of the company.
·Notice of the general meeting alongwith copy of the draft special resolution is given to the members at least 21 days before the general meeting.
·Special resolution is passed by 3/4th majority of the members of the company and the members appoint a person to be liquidator of the company.
·Special resolution on Form 26 is filed with the registrar.
Step 2 . Meeting of creditors is called at 21 days notice, (simultaneously with sending of the notices of the general meeting of the company) the notice of the meeting of the creditors to be send by post to the creditors, besides, the notice of the said meeting to be advertised in the official Gazette and the newspaper circulated in the Province and the creditors pass a resolution of voluntary winding up of the company. The creditors also appoint liquidator in that meeting. If the creditors and the company nomina te different persons, than person nominated by the creditors shall be liquidator.
Step 3. Notice of the resolution passed at the creditor’s meeting shall be
given by the company to the registrar alongwith consent of the liquidator within ten
days of the passing of the resolution.
The company may either at the meeting at which resolution for voluntary winding
up is passed or at any subsequent meeting may, if they think fit, appoint a committee of inspection consisting of not more than five persons. Provided that the creditors may, if they think fit, resolve that all or any of the person so appointed by the company ought not to be member of the committee of inspection.
Step 4. The liquidator should, with all convenient speed, realise the assets, prepare lists of creditors, admit proof, settle list of contributories, make such calls as may be necessary, etc. accordingly as the nature of the case may require, pay secured creditors, pay the costs including the liquidator’s own remuneration, pay preferential claims, and after meeting all the claims of creditors, and after adjusting all claims and rights, distribute the surplus on pro rata basis.
Step 5. In the event of the winding up continuing for more than one year, the liquidator shall summon a general meeting of the company and a meeting of creditors at the end of the first year from the commencement of the winding up and lay before the meetings an audited account of receipts and payments and acts and dealings and of the conduct of winding up during the preceding year together with a statement in the prescribed form and containing the prescribed particulars with respect to the proceedings and position of liquidation and forward by post to every creditor and contributory a copy of the account and statement together with the auditors’ report and notice of the meeting at least ten days before the meeting required to be held.
Step 6. The liquidator prepares the accounts, gets them audited and also presents a final report to the creditors. The steps at this stage are as under:
·The liquidator prepares a final report and accounts of the winding up, showing how the winding up has been conducted and the property of the company have been disposed of.
·Accounts are duly audited by the auditor appointed for the purpose.
·The notice of meeting is sent by post to each contributory of the company and creditor at least ten days before the meeting. The account with a copy of the auditor’s report is also enclosed with the notice.
·The notice of the meeting specifying the time, place and object of the meeting is published at least ten days before the date of the meeting in the official Gazette and in at least one newspaper.
·Within one week after the meeting, the liquidator is required to send to the registrar a copy of his report and account, and make a return to him of the holding of the meeting alongwith the minutes of the meeting.
·If a quorum is not present at the meeting, the liquidator makes a return stating that the meeting was duly summoned and that no quorum was present thereat. The return is filed with the registrar and considered as presented in the meeting.
·The registrar, on receiving the report, account and the return, is required to register them after their scrutiny.
·On the expiration of three months from the registration of final report, accounts and minutes, the company is deemed to be dissolved
- For more details please see
SECP guide on winding up
THE BIG 4 Interview Questions
The interview questions of PWC
PWC really, really, really likes competency interview questions. The company lists the competencies it works for here. It also provides a few transcripts of past interview questions and answers here.
And these are all the questions that candidates (and PWC itself) says it likes to ask:
1. Tell me about a time you had to correct someone’s mistake
2. What do you think this role involves?
3. Describe a time when you had to improve a piece of work after criticism?
4. What have you read about PWC in the news?
5. Can you describe a time when you have worked in a team to deliver a piece of work? – What was your role in the team? What did you do exactly?
6. Describe a time when you’ve successfully managed a project for example coursework or organising an event. What challenges did you overcome? Who supported you? What was the outcome?
7. Can you tell me about a piece of recent financial news you’ve read? Why did you find it interesting?
8. Give an example of a time you failed to accomplish something.
9. Give an example of a time you built a relationship.
10. Why audit?
11. Give an example of a time you worked with someone with a different style. How did this differ to your own?
12. Give an example of a time you said something unethical.
13. Give an example of a time when you weren’t given enough guidance.
14. Why PWC?
15. Give an example of a time you overcame conflict.
16. What do you know about the ACA exams?
17. Give an example of a time when you worked with people outside your usual network.
18. What’s the most difficult thing about working with you?
19. Give an example of a time you solved a complex problem.
20. Give an example of a time when you had to complete multiple different projects to a short deadline.
The interview questions of Deloitte
Much like PWC, Deloitte loves competency interviews. You can see the firm’s seven key
competencies listed here. Be prepared to answer very detailed questions about times you’ve demonstrated these competencies in the past.
Below are the questions that previous candidates and Deloitte itself say you should expect in an interview with the firm. Brainteasers appear to crop up from time to time.
1. Describe your role in a piece of work you’re particularly proud of.
2. Describe a time you collaborated with others to achieve a goal.
3. Give me an example of when you have dealt with a difficult character
4. How would people describe you in three words?
5. Why Deloitte?
6. Why audit?
7. Talk me through a long term project you’ve been involved in.
8. Why did you study a university degree if you want to work in accountancy?
9. What’s good about you?
10. Describe a time you defended a friend.
11. How would you sell yourself?
12. Which other companies are you applying to?
13. Describe a time when you had to settle upon the right course of action. What were your thought processes when you made this decision?
14. How do you try to be the best you can be?
15. Tell us about a time you led a team.
16. What can you bring to Deloitte?
17. How do you handle stress at work?
18. Tell me about a time you adapted to an unfamiliar situation.
19. Why are pot holes round?
20. How many pens can I fit in this room?
The interview questions of KPMG
What will you be asked in an interview at KPMG? The short answer is more of the same again.
KPMG lists its nine behavioural competencies here. When you interview with the firm, you’ll be asked a lot of questions about when you demonstrated them.
For example….
1. What makes KPMG different from the rest of the Big Four? Why do you want to work here?
2. What’s the difference between an internal auditor and an external auditor?
3. What do you think this job will involve exactly?
4. Talk about a time you’ve managed multiple tasks to finish a project for a deadline.
5. Talk about a time you worked in a team where there were communication problems. How did you help resolve them?
6. Can you talk about a time you’ve had to deal with a difficult customer? How did you diffuse the situation?
7. What’s good about you? What’s not? What do you need to learn?
8. Can you give an example of a time when you’ve had to communicate an idea persuasively in writing?
9. Can you tell me something interesting you’ve read about KPMG in the news?
10. Can you tell me about a time when circumstances changed? How did you adapt?
11. Can you tell me about a time when you’ve had to overcome a setback? How did you overcome it?
12. Can you talk about a business that’s doing well? Which three things do you consider key to their success?
13. Can you talk about a business that’s doing badly? Which problems does it face?
14. Can you talk about a time when you’ve motivated a team to work together? What did you d exactly?
15. What are you most proud of?
16. Which opportunities can you see now for KPMG to develop new business?
17. Which skills do you think you’ll need in the role you’re applying for at KPMG?
18. Can you tell me about a time you felt bored at work? How did you make the job more interesting?
19. Can you talk us through the way you evaluated a challenging situation in the past?
20. A company wants to relocate overseas. Talk us through the problems it faces.
The interview questions of EY
Finally, EY has those ‘strengths’ interviews. Strengths interviews are all about finding out your interests and what you’re good at. The interviewer wants to know what you’re really like. In recruiter parlance, they want to know your ‘authentic self.’
To this end, candidates and the firm itself say you should expect the following questions when you interview at EY.
1. What are you good at?
2. What do you most enjoy studying?
3. What gives you a buzz?
4. Are you a starter or a finisher?
5. Are you into big picture or detail?
6. Describe a successful day you had recently.
7. What do you love doing in your spare time?
8. When are you happiest?
9. When you do you feel most like yourself?
10. Do you find there are enough hours in the day?
11. Have you ever done something differently the second time around?
12. Tell me about your friends.
13. Which three words would you friends use to describe you?
14. What’s your biggest weakness?
15. Have you ever wanted to stop doing something?
16. Do you think you need to be an expert to lead a team?
17. Would you say you’re organized? Would your friends?
18. Do you enjoy hard work?
19. Why do you want this job?
20. Give an example of a time you asked for more responsibility.
PROFESSIONAL EMAIL SENTENCES
Sentences to make your email look professional: “Further to your mail of today, I have a great pleasure to confirm your reservation for the date mentioned below:” “Looking forward to welcome you to__________ hotel, Dubai and assuring you of our best services at all times”. “It is with great pleasure to confirm ……..” “Thank you for your recent enquiry regarding…..” “Below you will find a summary of your request…..” “Your co-operation on the above would be highly appreciated”. “Once again thank you, awaiting to welcome your guest at _________hotel”. “In response to your mail dated…….we are glad to inform you that we have reserved as follows:” “Hope you find this helpful”. “Hope this is clear enough; feel free to start right away. Thank you”. “Thank you for your time & prompt attention”. “Your prompt reply will be solicited”. “Will revert back to you shortly”. “Many thanks again for your time”. “I trust the above resolves your queries. Should you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me”. “Hope the above helps, email again if you still having any difficulties”. “Thanks! I appreciate your help”. “With regards to our conversation over the phone” Please ignore my previous mail; sorry for the confusion consider the attached as latest” “I would appreciate your immediate attention to this matter” “We regret the in-convenience caused & thank you for your usual co-operation”. “Kindly acknowledge the same” “Appreciate if you could take this on your urgent consideration to check.” . To take some action: “I would appreciate your help in this matter”. “Would you mind checking it out for me? Thanks in advance”. “Can you get back to me once you have time for it?” “I’d love to hear your advice on this”. . Need a response: “I await a response at your earliest convenience”. “Look forward to hearing from you”. “Can you drop me a quick word, so I know you’ve received this?” . Heard nothing & want to chase: “In reference to my mail of________ (month)” “When you get a moment could you drop me a line about my last mail?” “Any updates so far?” “Could you please advice for the below request sent” “Drop me an email when you will have an update on previous mail”. “I am yet to receive an update from your end, requesting you to revert ASAP”.
The Shape Of Your Teeth Can Reveal A Lot About Your Personality. Check Yours!
Ever thought that the shape of your teeth can reveal a lot about your personality? Neither did I but it’s true that the shape of your teeth can reflect your personality! This science is called Morph psychology and it’s used to evaluate and know about a person’s personality by their appearance. The first thing you notice about a person while having a conversation with them is their teeth. If you know what’s the shape of their teeth you can easily find out what kind of a person they are. There is basically four type of teeth shape- Rectangle, Square, Triangular and Oval.
So take a look at the mirror or look closely while conversing with someone and you may know what kind of personality they possess by seeing the shape of their teeth!
1.Rectangular
People with the rectangular shape of their teeth have practical and solution-oriented characteristics. They are very rational with anything and everything is it work or their personal lives. These people are a total control freak and an amazing decision maker and leader. They make a very good planner
and are dynamic, sociable, talk a lot but are very
sharp with their conversations. They can be very imaginative and full of ideas.
These people can be unemotional and a bit irritable sometimes.
2. Square
This teeth shape is easily identified and the most common type. They possess the same characteristics like a square like the sense of control, orderliness, and objectivity. These people have a good control over their emotions and are calm in any situation. They have a strong entrepreneur qualities, are diplomatic and full of ambition. They are very good with their judgments and decision-making as they’re too objective.
At times they can seem to be harsh due to their sense of control and objectivity.
3. Triangular
The people with this kind of tooth are carefree in their lives and know how to have fun. They’re optimistic and know how to live in the present moments.
They can appear too independent sometimes and their carefree nature can reflect a lack of rootedness.
4. Oval
These people love art. Or you can say they walk artsy, talk artsy and everything they have is artsy. These people possess shy, organized and sensitive characteristics. From their hair to their accessories, they keep it all artistic.
They are a bit melancholic so they carry a burden of a poet.
15 Habits of Irresistible People
You know that person who seems to have a flair of good luck? The one who, even though isn’t drop-dead gorgeous, is always able to get whatever she wants? There is more to the outer beauty of these people. They light up a room when they walk into it. This type of person is able to accomplish much in life because of attitude, charisma, or something as simple as kindness. Their smile exudes confidence, compassion and joy. You may wonder what separates them from others.
Dr. Travis Bradberry, author of Emotional Intelligence 2.0, has researched and studied the emotional connection of people. He has recognized that there are basic characteristics that make some people more friendly and charismatic to others.
“When influential people speak, conversations spread like ripples in a pond. And those ripples are multidirectional; influencers inspire everyone around them to explore new ideas and think differently about their work.” Likeable people are conscious of how they treat others. They believe that “Few things kill likeability as quickly as arrogance.” Irresistible people don’t act as if they are better than you. They actually believe that you have the ability to succeed, and create the life that you want. But, what’s the secret to truly being this type of person?
HERE ARE 15 THINGS IRRESISTIBLE PEOPLE DO DIFFERENTLY:
1. THEY TREAT EVERYONE WITH DIGNITY AND RESPECT.
Irresistible people don’t put others down. What makes them so likeable is the ability to treat a homeless person in the same manner that he would treat the CEO to a huge company. To this person, there is no class or status that separates anyone. We are all part of the human race.
2. THEY DON’T GOSSIP.
The charismatic person has no need to utilize gossip as their motive to partake in a conversation. They are always bringing in the best of themselves, and allowing others to shine. This is what makes them so generous in uplifting others. Gossip is a negative trait, and they have little tolerance for it.
3. THEY TREAT OTHERS AS THEY EXPECT TO BE TREATED.
Dr. Bradberry believes that these type of folks follow a healthy life rule that says you should treat others the way you wish to be treated. “But that rule is flawed because it assumes that everyone wants to be treated the same way. In reality, people have different desires and goals.”
The irresistible person understands this and follows not the golden rule, but the platinum one: treat others the way THEY want to be treated.
4. THEY HAVE HEALTHY BOUNDARIES.
Irresistible people don’t try to please everyone all the time. They know that there is a time and place for everything. They don’t give more of themselves. They have healthy ways of assisting and giving to others. But, they never run themselves ragged. These people take care of themselves. And, in that ability to sustain boundaries, they show a beautiful example of self-love to others.
5. THEY ARE GENUINE.
These type of people do not pretend to be someone they are not. What you see is what you get. They exude self-confidence. The irresistible person doesn’t have to have super-model looks, but she or he will walk into a room with such confidence that they shine. They know their worth, and never allow others to dictate how they should see themselves.
6. THEY HAVE INTEGRITY.
Albert Einstein said, “Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters.” The person with integrity stands in their authenticity. They know what matters and this is passed on to others. They make you question your honesty, principles, and goodness. Integrity is one of the best characteristics that they teach others.
7. THEY SMILE AT EVERYONE.
The most powerful and attractive quality that an irresistible person has is their ability to always smile, in spite of whatever is going on in their lives. They bring forth laughter with their energy. These likable people know that a smile is sexier than any outfit, stronger than any pill, and has the ability to break down negativity.
8. THEY ARE COMPASSIONATE.
The irresistible person is empathetic to others. They show compassion to animals, nature, and people. They know that one minute you might be on top of the world, and in an instant you can find yourself struggling. Being compassionate is not just about showing kindness to those you like, but also leaving the zone of comfort and stepping into places that the heart breaks into pieces. They take chances in loving others and they know it’s worth it. They help everyone. They wear their hearts in their sleeves.
9. THEY LOVE LIFE.
Successful and charming individuals love life. They are not exempt from heart ache, misfortunes, or challenges, but they know that life is priceless and it’s the only thing that is real. This life is for taking chances, loving, and helping others. They cherish every moment, and when they meet someone new, they make that person feel as if they are the most incredible thing in their day.
10. THEY BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER.
These people are huge human connectors. They bring like-minded people together. They want to help others succeed. If you are among these type of enchanting individuals, you will notice that they immediately display a sense of connection. They may become your own fairy godmother, helping you reach to the next level. They will immediately draw you a map to get to someone who can help you on your journey.
11. THEY TRULY LOVE PEOPLE.
This is a given. These happy people love people. The irresistible person is the one who coined the term “people person.” They love to be around others. They get inspired by energy and stories. The likeable individual has an ability to attract those who are ready to fly and conquer their own dreams.
12. THEY KNOW YOU MUST WORK HARD TO GET AHEAD.
The irresistible person may always wear a smile, but they know that nothing comes without hard work and some struggling. They work hard and succeed with an undeniable thirst for accomplishing their desires. They succeed because they don’t give up. And, when you are among this type of person, you also feel that ability to overcome anything ahead.
13. THEY LISTEN.
Dr. Bradberry says, “People like to know you’re listening, and something as simple as a clarification question shows not only that you are listening but that you also care about what they’re saying. You’ll be surprised how much respect and appreciation you gain just by asking good questions.”
The irresistible person has this innate ability to stare into your spirit and truly make you feel as if you are understood, acknowledged and loved.
14. THEY HAVE POSITIVE ATTITUDES.
In spite of all the challenges in life, these folks continue to have positive attitudes. They don’t feed into negativity. They don’t entertain the woe-is-me attitude from anyone. They avoid confrontations and always search for an optimistic answer to the heavy questions in life.
15. THEY ALWAYS SAY “PLEASE” AND “THANK YOU.”
The ability to show gratitude is a magic wand for the irresistible person. They know that compliments go a long way in the journey of life, but what truly makes others like you are the simple manners: saying “please” and “thank you.” These magic words are never misused, and they know exactly how powerful they are in making others feel understood, acknowledged, and accepted.
Irresistible people are those individuals who have been through emotional roller coasters and major transitional obstacles, and have learned that they aren’t alone in this world. You might just be one of these amazing people. You might be so humble that you don’t recognize how you are changing the world around you. These people know that we have a connection to each other. They make you feel as if you matter. And, that is one of the most profound effects they leave as their legacy: they truly see you, feel you, and care about you. ∞
10 SIGNS YOU’RE DEHYDRATED
Did you know that 25% of kids and teenagers don’t drink ANY water as part of their fluid intake?
A surprising number of adults don’t drink enough water, as well, with one study finding that half of Americans don’t get their recommended daily intake of water. Not drinking enough water can cause serious health problems, including digestive issues, urinary tract infections, anxiety, and chronic fatigue.
Not surprisingly, 75% of Americans suffer from chronic dehydration, according to a report by CBS.
Because water composes about 60% of our bodies, 75% of our muscles, and 85% of our brains, you should take dehydration very seriously. Dehydration can inhibit the function of many parts of the body, leaving you feeling lethargic, sick, and even depressed. However, if you know what to look for, you can stop dehydration before it leads to more serious complications.
HERE ARE 10 SIGNS YOU’RE DEHYDRATED:
1. YOUR MOUTH, SKIN, AND EYES FEEL DRY.
One of the biggest signs you’re dehydrated appears on your skin, believe it or not. If you don’t drink enough water, you won’t sweat out all the internal and external toxins in your body, which means you will be prone to clogged pores, resulting in breakouts.
Also, if you have trouble producing tears, a lack of water could be the culprit. Obviously, having a dry mouth signals to your brain that you need more water, also. Water does so much for our bodies, and in general, that parched feeling you get in your mouth can be felt in other areas of the body, too.
2. YOU USE THE BATHROOM INFREQUENTLY, AND WHEN YOU DO, YOUR URINE IS DARK YELLOW OR BROWN.
This is a big red flag that you’re dehydrated. Many people don’t eliminate waste enough times throughout the day, which means the toxins just accumulate inside their bodies. Water helps flush out these toxins, not to mention, keep your renal system running smoothly. If you make trips to the bathroom only a couple times a day, you should really consider drinking more water.
Also, the color of your urine will paint the true picture of how much water you’re consuming. If your urine isn’t clear at the end of the day, make sure to drink a glass or two of water before bed. Yellow or brown urine is a big sign that you’re dehydrated, and means that your body is retaining fluids in order to maintain vital bodily functions.
3. YOUR BACK AND JOINTS HURT OFTEN.
Since your body’s cartilage is composed of nearly 80% water, replenishing water after sweating is essential for keeping bones and joints healthy. Water keeps joints lubricated in order to protect the body during strenuous activities or unexpected movement, such as falling or tripping. In addition, back pain could indicate a kidney infection due to being dehydrated, so if you have frequent back aches, drink more water throughout the day.
4. YOU FEEL EXHAUSTED AND HAVE WILD MOOD SWINGS.
Water brings oxygen into the body. The more oxygenated your cells, the more alive you will feel. However, if you don’t drink enough water, the body must get oxygen from your blood to compensate, which will suck your body of oxygen. This will make your whole system slow down, and make it harder for your body to function properly. This will inevitably make you more tired, moody, and downright lethargic.
5. YOU’RE RAVENOUSLY HUNGRY, EVEN IF YOU’VE JUST EATEN.
This might seem confusing, since hunger pangs usually indicate that you need to eat. However, it can also mean that you’re dehydrated. Dehydration tricks the body into thinking it needs to eat, when really, you just need water. Hunger and thirst cues come from the same part of the brain, which could explain this confusion. Try drinking a glass of water the next time you feel hungry, and if the pain goes away, that means you were just dehydrated. If it persists, it probably means you need to eat something, as well.
6. YOU HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE.
Dehydration causes the blood to become thicker, resulting in slower blood flow and a higher sodium content in the blood. All of these factors combined provide the perfect environment and conditions for high blood pressure, which can result in some of the other health problems on this list.
7. YOU HAVE HIGH CHOLESTEROL.
Being dehydrated means that your body will hold onto any water it can find so more water loss doesn’t occur. In this study, 15 people completed a fast under two different circumstances: once without fluid replacement, and another time with salt and water supplementation. The researchers found that when the participants fasted with no fluids, their total serum cholesterol levels were much higher than when they were provided with salt and fluid supplementation. While most people still drink water during a fast, drinking sugary, nutrient-lacking drinks in place of water throughout the day can cause dehydration, and therefore, higher cholesterol levels.
8. YOU HAVE TROUBLE DIGESTING FOOD.
Water gets things moving throughout your entire body, including your digestive system. Water serves as a wonderful way to cleanse and detoxify the body, but without enough water, waste moves through the colon much more slowly, which can lead to constipation or other digestive disorders. Water helps to get things moving in the digestive system, but when the body is in a dehydrated state, the large intestine soaks up the water from the foods you eat. This increases the likelihood of constipation, acid reflux, ulcers, and other digestive issues.
9. YOU HAVE FREQUENT RASHES ON YOUR SKIN.
The effects of dehydration normally appear on the outside of our bodies, because water detoxifies and hydrates every part of the body, including the skin. Without adequate water, toxins build up on our skin, resulting in many different skin disorders. Acne, psoriasis, eczema, and discoloration can all occur as a result of dehydration.
10. YOU HAVE MIGRAINES AND CAN’T THINK CLEARLY.
Dehydration actually causes our brain tissue to lose water, resulting in the brain shrinking and pulling away from the skull. In turn, this sends alarms to the pain receptors surrounding the brain, which gives you that nasty midday headache. Being dehydrated decreases blood volume, which means less blood and oxygen will flow to the brain. The blood vessels in the brain dilate to keep the blood flowing, resulting in inflammation and a pounding headache that many people are unfortunately all too familiar with.
3 WAYS TO STOP OVERTHINKING
HERE ARE 3 WAYS TO STOP OVERTHINKING:
1. CONNECT WITH NATURE.
If you don’t live or work in nature, than you need this the most. Take time to get out in nature. This could mean going on your lunch break in a nearby park, or going on a vacation to get away. Anything you can do to strengthen your bond with nature will greatly benefit your mind and stop overthinking immediately.
You can focus on the beauty in the trees, a leaf, a waterfall, the sky, mountains, a lake or whatever you gravitate towards. This will immediately stop your mind. When you allow yourself to do this, you will find that you will think more clearly throughout the day.
2. REPEAT PEACEFUL WORDS TO YOURSELF.
Pay attention to your brain at this very moment…what kinds of thoughts do you observe? Most likely, you will notice that the majority of your thoughts center around what you have to do today, or what someone said that made you angry, or even degrading thoughts about yourself. Don’t feel bad, though; with so much negativity around us, maintaining a consistent positive mindset isn’t always easy. However, you can actually counter the negative words and over thinking with the repetition of peaceful words.
Anytime you notice you are overthinking or you feel anxiety or worry coming on, stop those thoughts in their track as soon as you realize it with calming words. Whatever words resonate with you better.
Examples are: Peace. Love. Light. It’s ok. Life is Good. I’m ok.
While this isn’t completely quieting your mind, it does stop overthinking, it will allow your mind to slow down and focus on what really matters in this moment. Words carry a lot of meaning and power, so use them to your advantage whenever you feel stressed out.
3. MEDITATE.
We suggest meditation a whole lot on our website, but for good reason. When you meditate, you stop the flow of overthinking and negative thoughts bombarding your consciousness every second, and instead move into a space where stillness takes precedence.
While you don’t have to turn off your brain to meditate, many people feel that their thoughts slow down incredibly and overthinking stop immediately.
If you try it and find you still cannot stop thinking, try a guided meditation or yoga. These practices bring awareness into the body, and makes it much easier to cope with daily challenges.
11 QUOTES TO REMEMBER WHEN YOU’RE OVERTHINKING
- You will never be free until you free yourself from the prison of your own false thoughts.
- Before you talk, listen. Before you react, think. Before you criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try!
- Stop worrying about what can go wrong, and get excited about what can go right.
- Overthinking – the art of creating problems that weren’t even there.
- There is nothing in this world that can trouble you as much as your own thoughts.
- Worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere.
- Stop overthinking. You can’t control everything, just let it be.
- Dear mind, please stop thinking so much at night. I need sleep.
- Overthinking is the biggest cause of unhappiness.
- Don’t ruin a new day by thinking about yesterday. Let it go.
- A quiet mind is able to hear intuition over fear.
HERE ARE 3 WAYS TO STOP OVERTHINKING:
1. CONNECT WITH NATURE.
If you don’t live or work in nature, than you need this the most. Take time to get out in nature. This could mean going on your lunch break in a nearby park, or going on a vacation to get away. Anything you can do to strengthen your bond with nature will greatly benefit your mind and stop overthinking immediately.
You can focus on the beauty in the trees, a leaf, a waterfall, the sky, mountains, a lake or whatever you gravitate towards. This will immediately stop your mind. When you allow yourself to do this, you will find that you will think more clearly throughout the day.
2. REPEAT PEACEFUL WORDS TO YOURSELF.
Pay attention to your brain at this very moment…what kinds of thoughts do you observe? Most likely, you will notice that the majority of your thoughts center around what you have to do today, or what someone said that made you angry, or even degrading thoughts about yourself. Don’t feel bad, though; with so much negativity around us, maintaining a consistent positive mindset isn’t always easy. However, you can actually counter the negative words and over thinking with the repetition of peaceful words.
Anytime you notice you are overthinking or you feel anxiety or worry coming on, stop those thoughts in their track as soon as you realize it with calming words. Whatever words resonate with you better.
Examples are: Peace. Love. Light. It’s ok. Life is Good. I’m ok.
While this isn’t completely quieting your mind, it does stop overthinking, it will allow your mind to slow down and focus on what really matters in this moment. Words carry a lot of meaning and power, so use them to your advantage whenever you feel stressed out.
3. MEDITATE.
We suggest meditation a whole lot on our website, but for good reason. When you meditate, you stop the flow of overthinking and negative thoughts bombarding your consciousness every second, and instead move into a space where stillness takes precedence.
While you don’t have to turn off your brain to meditate, many people feel that their thoughts slow down incredibly and overthinking stop immediately.
If you try it and find you still cannot stop thinking, try a guided meditation or yoga. These practices bring awareness into the body, and makes it much easier to cope with daily challenges. ∞
M. Adil Hussain
Future Chartered Accountants 