How to Come Up With Great Business Ideas: A Lesson from Leonardo da Vinci

Today’s investment world is more competitive than ever before. Our investment decisions require creativity and problem solving to navigate a complex market.

How can you outperform and minimize risk? What can you do in this brutal environment? Work harder? Trade faster? Leverage up?

No.

My answer?

I build “hard breaks” into my life and take time to disconnect from work and technology. I give myself space to think creatively about the investment markets. This is something I learned the hard way after 25 years of investing.

So, how to come up with great business ideas? Take a page from history’s most influential artist.

Leonardo da Vinci once said, “The greatest geniuses accomplish more when they work less.”

In the 15th century, da Vinci got in trouble for this philosophy. Leonardo’s patron had become frustrated with the progress of his latest work, the famous painting of the Last Supper. Leonardo pushed back and wrote to his sponsor that “It is a very good plan every now and then to go away and have a little relaxation. When you come back to the work, your judgment will be surer, since to remain constantly at work will cause you to lose the power of judgment.”

A modern analog to Da Vinci’s brilliance is “Hamilton,” the most innovative and creative Broadway play in decades. “Hamilton,” was conceived while Lin-Manuel Miranda was on vacation. Creative thinkers long ago realized that the best ideas happen when you aren’t at work.

The reason for that?

It’s actually simple. When we’re daydreaming and relaxing, our brains don’t slow down. It’s the other way around.

When your brain is on a downtime, its supply of motivation, productivity, and creativity get refueled. As a result, you’ll be able to think about problems, memories, and patterns in your life better.

Creative people have a more active default mode network than others.

I have been an entrepreneur, CEO, and self-proclaimed workaholic for over 20 years now. In the last 12 years, I drastically changed the way I work and interact with technology.

Taking a hard break has made me a better investor, a more creative entrepreneur, and I believe I owe a great deal of my success to the fact that one day a week, I am guaranteed a complete vacation from my work.

Here are some ideas about taking breaks you can actually use:

Turn your gadgets off

Artists aren’t alone in their habits of rest and disconnecting. Brad Feld, a successful entrepreneur, author, blogger, and venture capitalist running a half a billion-dollar investment company, takes a digital Sabbath.

Every week, he takes one day where he turns off his phone and computer, disconnecting himself from technology. Feld says that by taking a digital Sabbath, he is “doing the best work he’s ever done.”

He has seen such positive outcomes from taking a day off that he now takes a week off every quarter.

Go for a walk in nature

Studies from Stanford University, the University of Michigan, and the University of London have shown that a walk in in the woods “significantly improved cognitive performance.” Creativity can be boosted by 60% just by taking these walks.

Einstein was famous for taking walks when stuck with a thorny problem to figure out. Even Steve Jobs believed in taking walks, the power of reflection and taking a break from work. Ludwig van Beethoven and Charles Darwin are two others in the ranks of famously creative people who regularly took walks.

Rest

As mentioned earlier in this article, your brain is more likely to process information and find patterns when it is able to reflect and have a downtime.

How to come up with great business ideas? Maybe take a nap.

Taking hard breaks and downtime may help you become more creative and give you an edge over the rest of the market.

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How to Reset Body Clock Fast: 5 Circadian Rhythm Tips to Maximize Your Day

9 Ways to Use Your Grid Dot Bestie

Our Grid Dot Bestie allows you to plan for the future, track the past, and keep organized in the present. This pairs perfectly with any of our STARTplanners! If you don’t feel like taking your whole planner with you everywhere this is the perfect Bestie size to put in your purse or bag wherever you go!! AND… a chance for you to be creative!

There is a something about the process of checking off a habit each day. Keeping a log of my progress really can help improve motivation and ability to complete the habit each day. This can really help see your progress along the way from start to finish. Don’t forget to reward yourself for even the smallest victories!

This can really help transform your entire outlook and mindset on life. There is no wrong way to create and gratitude list/journal.  It can be first thing in the morning with a strong cup of coffee, OR it could be at night as more of a reflective outlook on the day. The most important part of this is to be consistent and write every day! Even the days that seem the hardest, or the days that you feed down or defeated, naturally writing down the good in each day will help lift your spirits.

This list can even go hand in hand with your habit and gratitude journal. Remember this Grid Dot Bestie is YOU, so make it fit for your life! On a daily basis, it is easy to be overwhelmed or distracted by all the things we are not achieving, and this can be exhausting physically, and mentally… SOOOO, let’s focus on the things you DID accomplish! They do not always need to be big grandiose victories. Give yourself ALL the credit. 

Make a list of what you are going to eat each day of the week.  In doing this you can then write out what you need from the grocery store so you can make sure you have everything you need! But, make sure you check your pantry first you will be surprised by what you already have in there! By doing this, you will also have a running list of some of your favorite recipes!

This can be a long ongoing running list of everything that you have on your mind.  This is not a list to make you feel overwhelmed. Getting it down on paper and out of your brain can help you think clearer and in turn be more productive.

This new Grid Dot Bestie can also be something to help you track things related to your health, for example…

•Water intake

•Weight loss tracker

•Exercise Plans

•Body measurements

•Physical therapy exercises/track progress

•Food diary

•Headache or symptom tracker

LOVE this idea. Reading/writing down quotes can just be good for your soul! You can look back to see all your inspirational quotes when you might be feeling discouraged.

This is a BIG thing for some people. Mornings can be hard! Putting down how you want your morning to look like a really being intentional and staying consistent with this list can help you be more productive in the mornings, which can help everything run smoother. Also, consider putting down your nightly routine as well, especially if you have kids! We know not everything always happens like we plan but we can try, right?!

Every out and you think to yourself I cant forget the name of this song/book etc…Well use this bestie to keep a running list of books to read, movies to see, concerts to attend, etc.

Remember this is all about YOU and your life! So make it work for you.  We can’t wait to hear what awesome ways you all decide to use your Grid Dot Bestie! Share your ideas below!!!

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Eight Best Ways to Get Rid of Fleas On Dogs

When it comes to fleas, prevention is much easier than trying to get rid of an infestation once they take hold. Fleas can spread rapidly from your dog to the surrounding environment and this makes it that much harder to get rid of them.

A single flea can lay up to 40 eggs per day and the majority of the flea population thrives in grass and carpet. Only around five percent of the fleas present get on your pets.

There are several preventative measures you can take to ensure that your home, pets, family, and yard stay free of fleas.  But, what is the best way to get rid of fleas on dogs?

Do Regular Checks

You want to routinely check your pet for fleas at least once a week. Check under your pet’s legs, in and around his ears, and close to his skin. If you see small black moving dots, it’s a good indication that your pet might have fleas.

Groom Your Pet Routinely

Whether your dog has a long or short coat, you’ll want to set up a grooming routine. You can do it for 10 to 15 minutes once or twice a week. This should be enough time for you to check your pet’s coat for fleas that may be hiding under its coat.

This routine grooming can give you time to bond with your dog, too.

Clean up Your Yard

Your yard or garden may be the root source of your flea infestation problem. Take steps to get rid of fleas in your yard and ensure that it’s a clean and safe place for your pets.

Fleas like moist and warm shaded areas with a lot of organic matter, like dead leaves or compost. Mowing your lawn and picking up debris will give fleas fewer places to live.

Get Regular Veterinarian Checkups

Not only are regular checkups good for your dog’s health, but they can also help to catch any flea problems early on. The earlier fleas are detected, the earlier treatment can get started.

Don’t Use Old Flea Preventative Products

Certain preventative products can be expensive. This extra cost is why people like to hang on to them past their expiration date. However, once a product expires, it can lose its effectiveness.

Treat Fleas All Throughout The Year

Although fleas like warm and moist environments, they can survive all throughout the year. A good preventative measure is to give your dog an oral flea medication like Comfortis for dogs. A lot of these products last one month, and they come in a soft chew so your dog won’t have a problem digesting them. They help to prevent fleas and they also kill any current infestations.

Use Citrus to Repel Fleas

If you don’t like the idea of using a medicated product to help protect your dog from fleas, try the natural route. Did you know that citrus is a natural flea repellent?

You can take a freshly squeezed orange or lemon and rub the juice into your dog’s coat. This will be safe for them to lick off and it’s effective in repelling fleas. Simply reapply it as needed.

Use Essential Oils

You can make a flea deterrent spray to put on your dog and to spray around your house using essential oils. All you have to do is mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with one quart of fresh water and four or five drops of essential oils.

Flea repellent essential oils include lemongrass, cedarwood, lavender, thyme, and citronella. Spray this around your home and on your dog to repel fleas and freshen the air.

Three Ways to Get Rid of Fleas

If you find fleas on your dog or in your home, there are several easy things you can do to get rid of them.

1. Do a Deep Clean

You can deep clean your home to help control any fleas. Make sure you pay special attention to carpets, furniture, and areas where your pet likes to play or sleep. Using a citrus-based cleaner is a good idea.

2. Bathe Your Dog

Fleas don’t like water as it makes it difficult for them to hold on to your dog’s coat. Bathing your dog at least once a week can help you control the flea infestation. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to their shampoo or buy medicated shampoos.

3. Spray Your Yard

When you’re taking care of the fleas inside of your home, you also want to make sure you treat your yard. You can buy specialized sprays and apply them to your yard and around the outside of your house to kill any fleas. This can help prevent your dog from bringing them back inside and undoing all of your hard work.

Fleas can be a big problem that you need to prevent in any way you can. Our eight flea prevention tips can help ensure that you don’t have to go through all the hard work of stopping an infestation. This also ensures that you enjoy a happy home and a healthy dog.

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How to Be A Great Best Man

So, your best mate is finally getting hitched. He has already popped the question to his girl and has now asked you to be his best man.

The feeling is pretty eccentric, isn’t it? After all, we rarely get to be the ‘best’ anything in our lives. Not to forget, knowing your mate values your friendship enough to choose you as his go-to guy during the most important time of his life is truly special.

Now that he’s chosen you, do you know how to be a great best man?

Being a great best man involves more than just throwing a party and crawling through a speech. In fact, experts on the topic say that you should assume that you’re the co-host of the marriage ceremony.

To give you a clearer idea, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know and do in order to excel as the best man to your best mate:

Before the big day

Your responsibilities as the best man start well before the wedding.

Make sure everyone is on time for suit fittings

This might not sound important to you, but it is an indispensable part of your responsibilities as the best man. Not only do you have to help the groom select his tux, you have to make sure everyone shows up on time to get fitted for their suits.

Organize an epic stag party

This is probably the reason why most men are excited to be the best man- the stag party! However, keep in mind that organizing one is easier said than done.

To begin with, make sure you talk to the groom about how or where he wants to spend his last weekend as a single person. Additionally, it is your responsibility to ensure the party fits the budget of everyone involved and that everyone will have a great time.

In case you find these things overwhelming, it is a great idea to involve professionals.

Help out with the wedding prep

Helping out with the wedding preparations doesn’t stop at picking tuxedos. It is also your responsibility to help pick the right vendors, venue, and honeymoon destination.

Whatever preparation involves the groom will probably involve you, too. That includes the rehearsal ceremony and the rehearsal dinner.

On The Big Day

This day is extremely crucial for the groom and it is imperative that the best man executes his duties perfectly so that everything happens seamlessly.

Travel to the venue with the groom

It is natural for the groom to be nervous on the day of the wedding. If the groom allows it, plan to get ready with him. Take a few beers along and simply spend some time with him.

The best man is the groom’s confidant. It’s his job to listen to and calm the groom when he’s questioning every life decision he has made so far.

Bear the ring

Cute little ring bearers are one hell of a crowd pleaser but please, don’t give a diamond ring to a kid! Give them a knock off to carry down the aisle and keep the real thing safe inside your jacket pocket.

Make sure the ceremony goes down smoothly

As mentioned earlier, you are the co-host of the ceremony. Make sure all vendors are doing their jobs and deal with any issues that may arise.

In some cases, the best man is required to pay the officiant. If that is the case, the groom will provide you with a sealed envelope for that.

Sign the marriage license

The maid of honor and best man sign the marriage license as witnesses to the marriage.

During the Reception

Once again, it is time to play the co-host.

The best man speech

Probably the most daunting part of being the best man, delivering a great speech is not something you want to take lightly. Here are a few tips that will help you deliver a great speech:

• Start preparing and practicing early, unless you want your speech to turn into drunken rambling.
• Make sure your speech is a toast and does not revolve around the groom’s humiliation. It is also a good time to remember that mentioning any ex-girlfriends or crazy night adventures is strictly off limits.
• Keep in mind that children and elders will be hearing your speech. For this reason, it is better to go easy on roasting the groom. Keep things tasteful and your speech will be remembered for all the good reasons.

Be the life of the party

It is your job as the best man to make sure the reception party keeps going. If you feel like the guests are being hesitant, get on the dance floor and inspire them to let loose. Aside from that, don’t forget to dance with both moms!

Decorate the getaway car

This is probably the final thing you have to do as the best man. Make sure you don’t get carried away with the decorations. If you are the designated driver for the bride and the groom, make sure you stay sober till the very end.

Conclusion

Being the best man is not easy. However, it is a tradition that must be upheld with ownership and responsibility. If you have done everything perfectly, it is time to give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done!

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Is Your Dog In Pain? Here’s How To Know For Sure

Dog lovers treat their pets like family. We spend thousands of dollars on our pooches each year- from treats, toys to veterinary care. No one wants their canine companion to suffer but 80% of dogs over 8 years old suffer from joint pain.

Effects of Aging

Half of all seniors in the United States experience arthritis pain and dogs are no exception. Just like humans, dogs often develop painful joint conditions as they age.

Dogs can’t let us know when they’re in pain and the signs aren’t always obvious. As your pet gets older, it’s important that you know the most common dog joint pain symptoms and when they start to appear.

Many larger breeds are prone to hip dysplasia arthritis, especially in old age. Larger breeds are considered seniors at 8 years old while smaller breeds may not show signs of aging until 10 or 12.

Smaller pups often develop patellar luxation, a condition where their kneecaps drift out of alignment. This condition comes on gradually, so it’s important that you pay close attention to your pet.

Spot the Signs of Discomfort

Just like people, all dogs react differently to pain. Some will try to hide their discomfort and go on playing and acting normally until their condition becomes severe. Others will limp or cry even when their symptoms are extremely mild.

Knowing your dog’s personality and typical behavior is essential for you to know if they are not feeling well.

Signs of Joint Pain in Dogs

• Easily tired
• Grouchiness
• Stops enjoying walks
• Growls when touched
• Less interested in playtime
• No longer greets you at the door

Signs of Arthritis in Dogs

• Sleepiness
• Getting up slowly
• Refusing to get up
• Swollen, tender joints
• Stiffness or uncoordinated movements
• Extreme carefulness when walking

In some cases, extreme joint pain and resulting immobility can lead to the end of your dog’s life. Protect your pooch by watching for signs of discomfort and seeking treatment when needed.

Treating the Symptoms

If your dog is showing signs of joint pain, seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose the cause of your pet’s pain and recommend treatment or pain relief specific to your dog’s condition.

Home care can help prevent, delay or keep the symptoms of joint pain from getting worse. Regardless of the age of your pet, diet, exercise, and bedding can make a big difference in your dog’s overall health and comfort.

Diet

Feeding your dog the right diet is essential to its overall health, including its joints.

Choosing the right food when your dog is young can help develop strong bones and muscles that will keep them healthy throughout his life. Keeping your pooch at a healthy weight can also prevent added stress on their joints and reduce the risk of future joint problems.

If your dog starts showing signs of joint problems, consider adding a joint-supporting supplement to their diet.

Exercise

Just like diet, exercise is important to your dog’s health. Regular walks will build strong bones and muscles, which can prevent joint problems from developing.

Many dogs with joint problems will continue to try to run and play like they always do. Try to limit activities like playing fetch as they can cause further injury. Short, frequent walks will help lubricate stiff joints and help your pooch feel better.

If walking on hard sidewalks is too much for your pet, opt for low-impact exercises like swimming.

Bedding

One of the easiest ways to lessen the pressure on your dog’s joints is to provide proper bedding. This is especially important for large breeds as their size can increase the pressure on their joints when lying on hard surfaces.

Choose a high-quality bed with at least two layers of supportive foam to keep your pooch comfortable.

Read this infographic for more signs of joint pain in big dogs and what to do about it.

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Taking The Mystery Out of Life: Why Humor Is Important

In one of his books, the late Dr. Wayne Dyer said:

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is.”

Some persons attribute the quote to Einstein. Others reach back and give Buddha credit.

Regardless of who said it, there is really no middle ground where some things are miraculous and others, well, not so much. Too many people fall into the middle ground. Others believe in the existence of miracles as really taking place- if only rarely. Some are more jaded than others.

Plenty of people prefer to live with a sense of wonder because it’s more fun.

Life and everything in it are mysterious. Even tangible items, like science, is easier to understand than exploring life. Biology allows us to observe what is happening.

In life, we become active participants. We can only wonder how life works and accept the results with a touch of humor. We lean towards taking ourselves too seriously.

But, do you know why humor is important?

Keeping A Sense Of Humor

Life can’t be serious all the time and humor goes a long way in easing the pain. Being able to laugh is healthy for everyone.

When used correctly, humor can even defuse tense situations.

In a relationship, humor has been recognized as vitally important. Cultivating humor in a relationship requires both individuals to remain respectful. Marriage is not a stand-up routine or a witty repartee. A good marriage is two people playing with words where humor is not used as a weapon.

Contented people approach life and love with a finely tuned sense of humor. This isn’t about making jokes that rival Jimmy Fallon. It’s about seeing the funny side of being alive and reveling in everpresent humor. Life can be ironic, fun, and entertaining.

When you share humorous observations and are able to be silly and non-serious together, you’re open and vulnerable. You’re showing you are comfortable in your own skin and at ease with your partner.

There will be challenges and obstacles in life.

When a couple finds humor, things go much smoother. It may take some effort, but that’s alright. A sense of humor can keep the world balanced even if things feel like they are flying apart at the seams.

See Also: 3 Ways To Inject More Humor Into Your Relationship

In a particularly challenging situation, you can make light of it and find humor. It’s a means of enjoying and appreciating each other’s support and company even in a position that is mostly crappy. Comedy is a form of relief in a stressful situation.

“A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your steps as you walk the tightrope of life,” wrote William Arthur Ward, an American writer.

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