For many, the idea of starting a fitness routine, especially when you're out of shape, can be intimidating. You might have a goal in mind, but where do you begin? How long should you walk or run? How fast? How often? Here are some tips and tools to help you kick-start your new fitness journey.
It’s natural to compare yourself to others who might be faster or more experienced, but don’t let that discourage you. Embrace your current fitness level and focus on making small, consistent improvements. Simply starting and doing more than you did before is a significant accomplishment in itself.
Wearing the right shoes is crucial when walking or running. Your shoes provide the foundation for your exercise, so it’s important to choose a pair that fits well and offers good support, especially around your ankles. If possible, seek advice from a specialty running shop, but at the very least, ensure your shoes are comfortable and supportive.
One common mistake is trying to increase both speed and distance simultaneously. Instead, set a clear goal for each workout: will you focus on going farther today or faster? Concentrate on one aspect at a time to avoid burnout and injury.
Exercising with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating. Whether you’re walking or jogging, having someone to talk to can make the time pass quickly and turn your workout into a social activity.
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Training plans are designed to help you progress safely from your current level to where you want to be. There are many tools and apps available that can guide you through the process step by step.
It’s normal to have days when you don’t feel like exercising. Try not to let these days derail your routine. Reach out to a friend for motivation, join a group, or just push through, knowing you’ll feel better once you’ve made the effort.
If you really need to take a rest day, don’t be too hard on yourself. Use the break to recharge, and get back on track the next day. Sometimes, a day off can even boost your motivation for your next workout.
Starting a fitness routine is a journey, and every step forward is progress. Remember to be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process of becoming more active and healthy.
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Networking is a crucial component of business success. It enables you to connect with people who can help you grow your business, gain insights into other industries, learn new ideas, and of course, discover potential customers. However, finding new clients shouldn’t be your sole focus when networking.
For shy individuals, networking can feel particularly daunting. The fear of rejection, lack of confidence, and feeling unworthy can make it seem overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can overcome these fears and recognize the immense value that networking can bring to your business and your personal development as a business professional.
Here are some tips to help you navigate networking with confidence:
Be Prepared: If you’re worried about freezing up or getting tongue-tied in social settings, prepare in advance. Think of a few ice-breaker questions you can ask people you meet to start conversations more easily.
Start with Familiarity: If approaching strangers feels intimidating, begin by seeking out people you already know. Familiar faces can make the environment feel less overwhelming.
Attend Events with a Friend or Colleague: Going to an event with someone you’re comfortable with can boost your confidence, especially if your companion is an extrovert. They can introduce you to people they know and encourage you to engage with others.
Don’t Continuously Apologize: Constantly apologizing can signal insecurity. Remember, you don’t need to apologize for seeking help or wanting to learn more about the person you’re speaking with.
Overcome Your Fear of Rejection: In networking, you may encounter people who are unable or unwilling to help. Don’t take it personally or dwell on it; it’s just part of the process.
Remember That Networking Is Two-Way: You might feel you have nothing significant to offer in return for someone’s help, but you likely have more to give than you realize. And even if you don’t, not every interaction needs to be a transaction—sometimes just building a connection is valuable.
Arrive Early: Don’t make the mistake of arriving late. It’s much easier to establish a presence in a room before it gets crowded and people start forming small groups. Arriving early gives you a better chance to mingle and make connections.
Create and Refine Your Elevator Pitch: Prepare a concise 15-30 second pitch that explains who you are, what you do, and how others can benefit from connecting with you. Having this ready can make breaking the ice much easier, but make sure it doesn’t sound overly rehearsed. Keep it simple, clear, and authentic.
Most importantly, be yourself: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. If you’re naturally humble and shy, embrace it—authenticity can be endearing. It’s okay to be a little awkward, just avoid over-apologizing for it.
By following these tips, you can navigate networking events with greater confidence and make the most of the opportunities they offer.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
Let’s face it, car tyres aren’t something most people think to budget for in their day-to-day expenses, but they are essential and important. So, should you invest in premium brands, or are budget tyres sufficient?
When choosing car tyres, it’s crucial to consider your driving needs before deciding on the type of tyre. Do you drive long distances on motorways? Or are you mostly a lower-speed, around-town driver? There’s a wide range of tyres available to suit nearly every type of vehicle and driving style.
When we think of premium tyres, names like Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone often come to mind - brands that can deflate your bank account faster than your last blowout. Budget brands, on the other hand, are the most affordable options on the market and can be much easier on your wallet.
In New Zealand, all tyres sold are required to meet specific safety standards, which ensures a baseline level of quality and safety. Interestingly, many budget tyre brands are owned by the major players in tyre research, who are keen to capture a share of the budget market.
In reality, no one can definitively say that a budget tyre will fail or that a premium tyre will never fail. The performance and longevity of a tyre largely depend on your driving habits and how well you maintain them.
Buying a budget tyre doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on quality; in fact, many budget tyres are manufactured using the same techniques as their premium counterparts.
Some argue that budget tyres don’t last as long as premium ones, but there’s no fixed lifespan for tyres—it all depends on how you drive and care for them. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tyre pressure, which is usually listed on the driver’s door pillar, can significantly extend tyre life and save you money. Underinflated tyres increase road friction, causing them to wear out faster and your car to use more fuel. Additionally, it’s important to ensure all four tyres have the same tread pattern for optimal performance.
It’s also wise to consult with a tyre professional. They have the expertise to advise you on factors like wet and dry handling, tread noise, off-road traction, and more, helping you choose the best option for your driving needs.
In the end, budget tyres are not unsafe and can be both reliable and economical. As long as you’re not planning a high-speed tour around New Zealand, budget tyres can offer great value and make practical sense.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.