Ways to Unplug

This is a very fast paced world that we live in where everything is always on and you are expected to be available 24/7. You tend to be looking at some sort of screen most of the time whether it is a mobile application or a computer. One of the things that you could do is cook something. The trick here is to find a recipe and then print it out and use that to cook. Keeping the screen out of the process will help you enjoy it more and it has so many health benefits. You could also write a thank you note. Like using actual pen and paper to write it. It will remind both of you why you are lucky to have each other. You could also put those sneakers on and grab your buddy, four legged or two, and get out there and move. Once you get back lay on your back and stick your feet up the wall. Just five minutes a day of sitting like that will have tremendous effects. Another great way to unplug is to read a book. You know those things that are bound and written on paper?

Stress Busting

Life and work can be stressful, especially if you are in software development. The landscape is constantly changing and it feels like you are working on updates more so than the actual concept. One of the things that you can do to banish stress is to change your passwords. This would be great on so many different levels. First of all, you are going to be increasing the security of your accounts. Secondly, thinking of creative passwords that you enter so many times throughout the day will give you pause every time you type it such as BH@ppy2day. You could also find someone to hug to get rid of that stress. Hugging someone causes you to release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes pro-social behaviors that can contribute to relaxation, trust and compassion. You could write down those problems that are nagging you. It can be amazing just how different a problem looks when it is on paper. So here is to having a better day.

Truly Get On Your Way To De-stessing

We live in a world where we are always running and never stop to take a deep breath and take a look around. We are always so busy with our software development projects and internet phone conferences that we forget how to live. And unless there is a saber tooth kitty about to chase us at any moment, the amount of stress that we experience is just way too much. One of the things that you can do is to daydream by gazing out the window. You might need to find that window first depending on where you work. Your body will automatically relax and as an added bonus, daydreaming can help boost your creativity. You can also tap on your body from the feet up. Use your knuckles to gently tap your way up your body. Focus your attention on the sensations. Tapping is very important when it comes to relieving stress and re-energizing. Lastly, find a pen and just doodle. I find the zen doodles to be very relaxing and it can also stimulate that creative side that you have hiding.

The Internet of Things in a City

With predictions that 66% of the world's population will live in urban areas by 2050, Internet of Things technology is increasingly drawing the attention of city planners, engineers and architects keen on staying ahead of the curve — they're imagining a world with smart street lamps, smart sidewalks and even smart sewage systems. This is not the internet for just web development anymore. In the connected city, there would also be drones making deliveries which in the long run would save money. An interesting part of this concept of connected things is that it is virtually invisible and the cities that are already taking advantage of being so connected look just like any other city. Different metric will be able to be measured in real time giving data that is time based as well as the ability to respond in to the data in real time. Things will also be more energy and cost efficient. This paves the way to living more sustainably. You might be thinking well what is the hold up? First there is the initial cost of setting all this up and secondly, many people are having a hard time buying into it. What are your thoughts?

Keeping an Eye on Your Employees

Did you know that it is estimated that companies spend more that $750 billion paying people for work that is actually not being done? I am not a huge fan of someone alway watching my affairs but when it comes to being in a work place getting place for their work, they should not expect privacy. That is the bottom line. There are some things that employers can do to mitigate the expenses that are associated with people not doing what they are supposed to be doing. Software development and services have come far enough that you can access your employees' computer whenever you want and see what is happening in real time. You can also install video and audio surveillance systems that can record everything and that you can access from any remote location via your laptop and watch and listen in real time. You can also install GPS tracking devices on company vehicles to track salespeople, installers, delivery drivers, and the like who are out in the field.

Do One Thing at a Time

If I can juggle five things at once, I’ll be more effective. If more effective, more productive. If more productive, more successful. The more successful, the happier. It all makes sense. Have you ever been caught in that line of thought? We think that if we do more things now, we will have more time later. The truth of the matter is that when we try to do too many things at once, we are not giving out full attention to any one thing. I bet you are even multi-tasking right now. Do you have music playing somewhere? It there an internet phone service that is demanding your attention? I thought so. Now imagine what would happen if we did one thing at a time? There would be more focus and better decision making which would lead to more productivity because we are able to make better choices. We would also be living more in the moment which research has shown that it is connected to being happier. And isn't that the whole point?

End the Day on a Great Note

All is well that ends well. For the most part anyway. If you are one of those people that feel utterly stressed and worn out at the end of the day and can hardly relax, there are things that you can do before hitting the sack that will help make you feel more positive and get tomorrow off to a great start. The first thing that you should do is get a pencil and paper and write down the things that you are grateful for in your day. Did that video conference go well? Or did you have a good lunch with a friend? You cannot let bad incidents in the day determine your mood. Another great way to de-stress is to take a break from social media and find time to exercise. Take a walk after dinner or if the weather is not good, do some yoga in the house. Lastly, keep things in perspective. No matter how much we plan, things can take longer and get carried over into the next day. It is important to make time for your home life nonetheless. Keep that balance and you will feel better and ready for the next day.