Great Leaders Who Overcame Huge Obstacles

overcomingYou may have heard the saying, “If you get knocked down; get back up and try again.” Not everyone on top today got there by having success after success. Many people face obstacles that forced them to work harder and show more determination than others. In fact, the greatest triumphs often come from situations that seem overwhelmingly awful. The way in which you respond to those adversities can be seen as victories themselves. People who have encountered challenges may agree that the factors in overcoming obstacles are determination, focus, and self-discipline.

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4 Tips for Setting a Personal Budget

Save Money at WorkFor many, the word “budget” is a negative term often compared to a diet in the way that you have to give up things you love. A personal budget is a plan to help you build a solid foundation of financial wellness so you can do and have the things you want without hurting your financial future. At the core of budgeting, there is one common principle—track all of your expenses to see where your money is going.

After tracking your expenses, you may realize that you are spending more than you’re making. Draw a line between your wants and needs. Remember living within your means can keep you from drowning in debt.

Keep it simple

1.  Outline your financial goals.

Are you saving to purchase a car or house, pay off debt, or save for a vacation? Be specific on how much you need to save and how long it will take to achieve your overall goal. This should help you plan how much to save monthly. Make sure your goals are achievable.

2.  Track Your Income and Spending

The main idea of a budget is help you spend less than you’re bringing in. To get started, list your income and monthly expenses. Keep track of all your expenses, everything from your morning cup of coffee to property taxes to see where the money is going. Remember, expenses like your mortgage or car payment likely won’t change over time, however expenses like your electric bill can vary depending on the time of year.

3.  Identify Ways to Save

Develop a wants-and-needs list to help identify where to start trimming your spending. Most financial experts recommend earmarking 40% of your earnings for necessities such as housing and utilities and 10% in an interest-bearing account or a tax-favored 401(K) plan. Look for creative ways to save, for example make coffee at home instead of spending $4 a day; $20 a week, or $80 a month. Remember small savings can add up to a huge surplus.

4.  Stick To It

  • Review your budget on a regular basis.
  • Stay focused on your goals.
  • Be sure that the budget accurately reflects your spending and be prepared to make additional adjustments.

A surplus in your monthly budget is right around the corner and puts you one step closer to achieving your overall goal.

Do you have tips for setting and sticking to a personal budget? Let us know in the comment section!

The Results Are In: What’s Holding Your Career Back?

The Results Are In: What’s Holding Your Career Back?

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While many people experience setbacks on their career path, every obstacle is different, and we wanted to know what you think is holding your career back.

The Results Are In
The number one thing holding careers back, according to our survey, is the “lack of job availability” with 19% of the vote. The other top answers received almost the same amount of votes, and include:

  • “No room for advancement”—16%
  • “Lack of experience”—15%
  • “No college degree”—13%

Additionally, “fear of change” received 10% of the vote, followed by “family commitments” with 9%, and “I don’t feel held back by anything” with 4%.

Is Your Age a Factor?
Readers were also given the option to select “Other” and provide their own answers. Responses include:

  • “The economy”
  • “Companies don’t want to train anymore”
  • “Lack of confidence”
  • “Length of time I’ve been unemployed”
  • “Software applications”
  • “Resume looks like I’m a job hopper”
  • “Health issues”

Of those who selected the “Other” option, 50% reported that their age is holding their career back.

What else is holding your career back? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Poll: What Job Search Obstacles Have You Overcome?

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You’ve reached the crossroads of your career, but there are a few things standing in the way of career mobility. The truth is, most people will at some point encounter roadblocks that get in the way of pursuing career goals. Whether in the workplace or your personal life, these obstacles must first be identified before an action plan can even be developed. Examine your bottom line, whether that is to land a job, increase salary, obtain a better work environment, or work life balance. then write your plan accordingly.

It’s important to stay focused so that obstacles won’t get in the way of your goal.

Whether it’s a complete change in industries, lack of experience, or simply figuring out where to get started in your search, we want to know how you’ve overcome obstacles while job searching.

How have you met some these challenges while job searching?  Let us know in the comments section below.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

How to Determine the Right Education Path

how_important_is_your_education_webAre you considering going back to school? Maybe you’re thinking about a career change or looking for a way to get ahead in your current career. Whatever the reason, furthering your education is rarely a bad idea.  Determining your educational path is a lot like mapping out a road trip. If you have a destination in mind, you can figure out a route, estimate how long your trip will take, and the gather resources you need to get from Point A to Point B. So before you rush out and enroll at a four year university or sign up for a trade school certification course, tap the brakes for a moment and consider your career destination before you set off down a particular education path.

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