My friend Kim was the one who dared to say it.

One night, as my group of 40 and 50-something female friends were in the pub, she looked round at us all and announced: 'I'm sick of my friends not looking like themselves any more.'

It was true, at least of me. I was in my late 40s and I'd been using Botox and fillers for over ten years.My face did indeed look not 'like me'.

Sometimes, after a particularly cack-handed job, I looked alien and weird.Once, I even had those embarrassing fish lips, a true trout pout.

At other times, the doctor's needles made me look better: prettier, younger. But my friend was right: my real face was essentially hidden beneath each treatment.

As I listened to her I felt slightly ashamed for not being able to grow old with confidence and grace.

And then, ever the addict, I suggested she try something small and natural, like the collagen-boosting injectable Profhilo . . . It is only now, at the age of 53, that I have finally been able to kick my Botox habit.

I'd like to say it's because I've fully embraced my wrinkles and sags, but the truth is to get rid of them would require more and more injectables.

For the sake of my sanity and my bank balance I had to put a stop to using my own face as a game of Mr Potato Head, in which I endlessly tried on different features that were not, strictly, my own.

For a while now, there have been mutterings about the decline of Botox and fillers.

Influencer and Love Island contestant Molly-Mae Hague, for example, decided to stop the injectables after suddenly realising she 'looked like someone on Botched' (an American TV show about bad cosmetic medical work).

Actresses Courteney Cox and Melanie Griffiths have apparently had their filler dissolved. Yolanda Hadid, mother of supermodels Gigi and Bella, and previously something of a superfan of self-improvement, has had dermal fillers removed too.

At the same time, however, invasive cosmetic surgery, involving scalpels and anaesthetics, is booming.

More than 31,000 surgical procedures were performed in the UK in 2022, a 102 per cent rise on the previous year the highest since annual figures began being recorded in 2004.

Why is Botox down and actual surgery up? I suspect because, like me, women are realising that once you reach a certain age, the needles just don't work any more.

Where a little prick here and there does wonders in your 30s and 40s, as you get older the face needs more and more. For results that are natural, surgery is the only answer.

Even the cosmetic doctors admit it. 'Once you tip over that curve in your 50s and 60s when you need ten to 15 syringes of filler, it can never look natural,' says Rita Rakus, who has a successful clinic specialising in injectables in London's Knightsbridge.

That doesn't mean the over-filled, over-done face has gone away. Sometimes I can hardly believe how quickly women with outlandish faces have become normalised.

I thought this as I watched the emotionless, glassy faces posing for cameras at the Met Gala this month.

From the youngest Kardashian to the wife of the former President of France, all sported to some degree those pouty lips and puffed up cheeks. I cringe to see them.

How can these be the most beautiful people in the world when their mouths are uniformly like that of a sex doll?

And yet I understand the compulsion too the obsession, almost because I have been there.

My own Botox addiction started by accident in 2007 when I made a documentary for Channel 4 about the cosmetic medical sector.

Back then it was still relatively niche. Even the jargon words like dermal filler, ablative lasers and botulinum toxin (Botox) seemed like the mad and pricey preserve of the rich and vain.

The documentary kicked off with my crumpled, lived-in face being picked apart by a panel of beauty experts, alongside the sweetheart-shaped face of a teenage model.

This may seem cruel but all we wanted was to replicate what happens every time we benchmark our attractiveness against those women endlessly thrust upon us as beautiful on screens and magazine pages.

I was 38 and spent what I thought was a reasonable amount of time and money on my appearance.

I dyed my hair to cover its grey-flecked mouse; I had my eyebrows expertly threaded and several parts of my body waxed. In all, I probably spent about 150 a month keeping myself groomed.

And yet as soon as my film crew and I walked into the office of those cosmetic doctors and they suggested a host of fillers and Botox, I was a goner.

I practically leapt into their chairs and told them to 'do it!' When I saw the beneficial results, I was hooked.

I liked being prettier, I liked the ravages of time and bad behaviour being erased from my face. I liked it a lot.

The following day I went to interview Dr Fredric Brandt at his New York clinic. Madonna's 'injector' at the time, Brandt was nearly 60 and had a face like a melting waxwork.

Despite that, when he offered to 'do' my lips, I leapt into his chair too. To give Brandt his due, I received a beautiful enhancement of my lip shape a result no doctor has managed to achieve since.

When we moved on to Beverly Hills, a doctor suggested the best solution for my tired looking eyes was not another syringe of filler or Botox, but some kind of fat transfer from my belly to my under-eye area.

I was so gung ho, I said yes before common sense prevailed and another doctor intervened. Thank God, too, because one of the fillers used on my face in New York turned out to have been a bad call, and could have reacted very badly with a fat transfer.

Nonetheless, I let the second doctor remove some of my eye bags with a ferocious Fraxel laser, which partially resurfaces the skin, leaving me looking like a vampire after a night on the tiles with bleeding eyes and seeping wounds.

I'll be honest, I found it all a bit of a thrill. Back in London, the panel of fashion photographers, beauty editors and make-up artists looked again at my face and this time they loved it. So did I.

For the next decade or so, my grooming regime was just like the old one, except now it included Botox and dermal filler at a cost that started at around 700 a year and rose to 4,000.

I was always susceptible to suggestion I'd go to one doctor for a modest amount of Botox and come away with more.

I even submitted my face to the Godmother of Botox herself, Dr Jean Carruthers, the Canadian ophthalmologist who, almost 40 years ago, noticed the botulinum toxin she injected to stop eye misalignment and correct squints was causing a welcome side-effect the temporary erasure of wrinkles too.

In 2016 Carruthers gave me injections backstage at a medical conference. I could hardly contain my excitement: what would the new improved me look like? It takes a week for Botox to kick in and by the time it had, I felt like I was made of oak. Nothing moved and my face felt leaden.

Seeking once more the beautiful lips Brandt had given me, I went doctor shopping and came away from one procedure with a mouth area that can only be described as looking like a duck.

I had paid several hundred quid to be a laughing stock. This was self-mutilation. But even this didn't make me stop. Back I went for more, just like an addict.

Yes, sometimes the results were amazing too amazing. I looked attractive. But I did not look like me.

Later, I went to a very serious young doctor called Joanna Christou, whose work was largely with the sort of women and men who work in broadcast media, the law and finance.

Not looking like a sex doll is clearly crucial in these professions and Dr Christou's work was correspondingly grown-up and subtle.

She was exceedingly expensive though. I asked her to make it look as if I had had nothing done, but the bill still came in at more than 2,500. No wonder so many women succumb to the cheap deals on the High Street.

I haven't seen one of my closest male friends frown in years. He says he does it for work. I believe him; ageism is rife. And he isn't even 50 yet. It's not just a female thing.

Yet as we get older, those injections themselves become the problem. Marc Pacifico, the president of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and a specialist facelift surgeon, says: 'Too much Botox and fillers are making people look unnatural. People have long expected injectables to be able to fix everything.

'Of course these products have a role to play, but you get to a certain age and Botox and fillers can't address [the ageing process].

'In fact they will cause aesthetic issues: that look of having been 'alienised', which is when someone walks into a room and you can tell they don't look quite right.'

I don't want an alienised face in my 70s. I wonder about the fillers I've had over the years, I worry they might not be as temporary as doctors thought.

In a report for the Mail earlier this year, the journalist Alice Hart-Davis had an MRI scan that showed she had 35ml of filler in her face despite not having had any injections for four years.

Rita Rakus, meanwhile, believes non-invasive treatments using machines are the future and I hope she is right.

Recently I tried them. They use what Rakus calls 'energy' to stimulate the body to create its own volume by working muscles and mildly traumatising the upper skin layers.

I was satisfied with the results, but not ecstatic, which was a less addictive sensation.

A month or so after using them, however, I rang Rakus' clinic to ask if there was a quick fix for my marionette lines, and later that week I was lying back in her chair.

The results were great. And yet as the filler went in, I was thinking to myself, what will it be next? The creases between my eyebrows? The excess skin on my eyelids?

Frankly, it's a journey I wish I had never started.

I'm not ready to think about going under the knife but I know I have to step back from needles entirely and find a more dignified ageing process in a decent hair cut, good skin, fitness, and surely the greatest asset of all, good health.

Three years ago I stopped dyeing my hair too and let myself go grey, a move intended to promote a deeper love and acceptance of myself and one that has kind of worked.

And grey hair and no Botox means I do definitely look older. When I go to the pub with my girlfriends now, I know I look far more dowdy than many of them, with their more elaborately fixed up faces and burnished hair.

I'm told there is nothing wrong with just wanting to look your best. But the question remains: is looking different to who you are really looking your best?

I put it to myself when I look in the mirror every day, and see my real face staring back at me.

Is that my best face? It's not a question I have answered entirely to my satisfaction yet, but after almost 16 years of trying to change it, yes, I think it might just be.

Continued here:
I've ditched Botox and fillers after 16 years... so I don't look like an alien when I'm 70 - Daily Mail

Are you considering hiring a coach or mentor but arent sure which one would be the best fit for your needs? Its a valid question after all, there is definitely a difference between coaching and mentoring!

Before making any decisions, though, its essential to understand the differences between these two services. This article summarises exactly what each entails so you can quickly determine which solution will better meet your goals.

What are the core differences between these two approaches?

Have you ever wondered what really sets coaching apart from mentoring? While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are some core differences between these two approaches to guidance. Coaching often focuses on specific goals and skills, providing feedback and guidance that helps individuals to improve their performance in a particular area.

Mentoring, on the other hand, tends to be more long-term and relational, with an emphasis on career development and personal growth. While theres some overlap between the two, understanding the differences can help you determine which approach is best for your own personal or professional goals.

The benefits of coaching

Hey there! Have you ever considered hiring a coach? Whether you want to improve your career, maintain a healthy work-life balance, or simply enhance your personal life, having a coach by your side can be incredibly beneficial. They can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and provide accountability and support throughout the journey.

Research has shown that coaching can lead to increased productivity, improved relationships, and higher levels of satisfaction and achievement. So if youre ready to take your life to the next level, why not give coaching a try? Who knows, it could be the best decision you ever make!

The benefits of mentoring

Mentorship can be the ultimate game changer for personal and professional growth. Having someone whos been through the ropes and is willing to show you the way is invaluable. Its like having a personal guide whos invested in your success, knows your strengths and weaknesses and is committed to helping you hone your skills. Mentors bring a level of insight and perspective that can be hard to come by on your own. Theyre able to offer guidance and advice that can help you realise your potential, identify areas for improvement and navigate challenging situations.

A good mentor challenges you to step outside your comfort zone, encourages you to take risks and supports you through setbacks. Ultimately, mentorship is about creating a space for meaningful dialogue and growth. Its about building relationships that can last a lifetime and unlocking opportunities that you may not have even thought possible.

The importance of finding the right mentor or coach

Finding the right mentor or coach is crucial for personal and professional growth. Think of it as a long-term relationship, where you want to find someone you click with and feel comfortable opening up to. Your mentor or coach should challenge you, push you out of your comfort zone, and provide guidance and support as you navigate through different stages of your career or life.

But most importantly, they should understand your unique strengths and weaknesses and tailor their approach to suit your learning style. Dont be afraid to shop around and ask questions before committing to a mentor or coach. After all, the right fit can make all the difference in achieving your goals and becoming the best version of yourself.

Setting goals with your coach or mentor

When it comes to setting goals with your coach or mentor, its essential to go beyond just stating your objectives. You need to know how youre going to achieve those milestones and stay on track throughout the process. Thats where your coach or mentor comes in. With their guidance, you can develop a plan of action that includes specific steps and timelines.

Taking the time to work through the details and breaking down big goals into smaller, more manageable tasks can increase your chances of success. So, dont be afraid to lean on your coach or mentor for support and guidance with their help, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Discover practical tools and strategies for making progress

Do you ever feel like youve hit a wall when it comes to achieving your goals? Its okay; weve all been there. Thats where a coach or mentor can step in and guide you towards success. But what if you dont know where to begin? Thats where these practical tools and strategies come in.

From time management techniques to goal-setting worksheets, weve got you covered. With the help of a coach or mentor and these resources, youll be unstoppable in your pursuit of success. So what are you waiting for? Its time to take action and start making progress.

Coaching and mentoring are powerful tools to help you reach new heights in your professional and personal life. Exploring the differences and relative benefits of these two approaches will help you learn what approach is right for you, set goals with a mentor or coach, and use practical tools for success.

Asking questions such as How can I best benefit from coaching or mentor relationships? and ensuring that you find the right fit are key components to ensuring growth in areas of self-improvement. Taking the time to research and establish an effective system with a coach or mentor can pay off immensely; its never too late to learn how to become your best self!

Views expressed above are the author's own.

END OF ARTICLE

Original post:
What is the difference between Coaching and Mentoring? - Times of India

Decades ago, Roland Barthes quipped that one is a writer as Louis XIV was king, even on the toilet. He was mocking the way literary types like to distinguish themselves from the mass of working people. Writers insist, Barthes believed, that their productive activities are not limited to any time and place, but flow constantly like an involuntary secretion.

Well, we are all writers now, at least in this sense. Stealing a few holiday hours to work on an article used to be my party trick. Now I find that, on Mondays and Fridays when many office buildings stand empty, my salaried comrades are sending emails from an Airbnb somewhere. Come the weekend, they might close their laptops, but they dont stop checking their phones.

Of course this hardly compares with the instability further down the pay scale.Around one in sevenBritishworkersnow do gig-economy jobs likeUberorAmazondelivery at least once a week, according to research for the Trades Union Congress, many of them on top of full-time employment.

Work today is fluid, overflowing its traditional boundaries and seeping into new domains. Meditation and exercise look suspiciously like personal optimisation. Artistic vocations centre on tireless self-promotion to a virtual audience. A movement of homesteaders churning their own butter and knitting their own jumpers are simply cosplaying older forms of work, and probablyposting the results onInstagram.

With the help of our digital tools, we are adapting ourselves to productivity as involuntary secretion. The result is an evisceration of personal life and an epidemic of burnout.

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Our diffuse working culture has attracted plenty of critiques. The problem is most of them share the basic outlook that enabled the spread of work to begin with. Should we recognise quiet quitting as a justified response to unreasonable demands by employers? Is rest a form of resistance? Do we all just need a better work-life balance? These arguments present life as a two-way split between work and some nondescript realm ofpersonal freedom, the question being how we can reclaim time from one for the sake of the other.

As long as the alternative to work remains just a negativespace, work will continue leaching into it. What we are missing is a real counterbalance: a positive vision ofleisure.

Properly speaking, leisure is not rest or entertainment, though it can provide both. It is not mere fun, though it ought to be satisfying. Its forms change over time, but it generally involves elements of play, fantasy and connection with other people or the natural world. Most importantly, leisure is superfluous to our worldly needs and ambitions: something we do not as a means to any end, but simply for its own sake.

[See also: The case for a four-day working week has never been stronger]

Truly mass participation in leisure was a striking feature of British life in the early 20th century. People played in brass bands andraced pigeons. They learned to dance and performed in plays and choirs. In 1926 nearly 4,000 working-class anglers from Birmingham took part in a single fishing competition along 20-odd miles of river. During the 1930s, as the historian Ross McKibbin writes, one of the great sights of the English weekend were the fleets of cyclists riding countrywards along the arterial roads of the major towns.

People still do these things, of course, but they do them as hobbies. The hobby belongs to a culture defined by work: it is a creature of downtime and a quirk of character. Hobbies rely on individual enthusiasm, so they often collapse in the face of stress or time pressure. Besides, we tend to judge them by the unleisurely criteria of self-improvement. Physical andintellectual pursuits are admirable, since they bring fitness and cultural capital. Excessive interest in bird watching marks you out as an eccentric.

Taking the superfluous seriously is a brave act in a utilitarian world, so leisure needs its own social legitimacy to thrive. This used to come from class-based associational life, with its clubs, unions and organised religion. Ifvideo gamesand social media smack of pseudo-leisure, it is because they are often part of a lonely struggle with the productivity impulse: they palliate restless and atomised minds. Maybe the only forms of leisure with a more than marginal role in popular culture today are amateurfootball, travel and the pub.

Aristotle thought a political community should exist to provide the conditions for leisure, which he saw as the key to human flourishing. At the very least, it is crucial for a balanced existence. Meaningful work, entertainment and indulgence all have their place, but they become destructive in excess. Life should be more than an on/off switch. Leisure is the space for conversation and reflection,friendshipand loyalty, playfulness andjoie de vivre. These are not qualities we can develop because we want them on our CVs: they are by-products of doing something for its own sake.

In a more civilised society, leisure would define our identities as much as labour does. To see what a distant prospect that is, try to imagine a politician talking about activities that might bring satisfaction to our lives half as much as he or she talks about ordinary working people or hard-working families. Celebrating leisure would be branded out-of-touch, but that is because we have accepted the disgraceful assumption that enjoyable pastimes are only for those who can afford them.

Asset-holding baby boomers are the masters of leisure today, using retirement for tourism, sport and artistic dabbling. Good for them. Still, we should resist the idea that such opportunities must be earned by decades of graft. This morality feels natural only because we dont acknowledge our common interest in leisure. We accept everyone wants higher pay, so why treat activities that enrich our culture as an extravagance?

The struggle to keep work in its proper place has already consumed a generation: the lifestyle guru Tim Ferriss published his bestsellerThe 4-Hour Workweekin 2007. It seems not all of us want to be our productive selves even on the toilet.

But its equally clear that blank slots carved out of our personal timetables are too flimsy: you cannot beat discipline with discipline. It would be better if we combined our productive energies and channelled them towards reviving the art of leisure.

[See also: Who is the four-day week for?]

See more here:
You should only work four hours a day - The New Statesman

In today's competitive job market, standing out is more important than ever. Phone interviews and Zoom calls are often the first steps in the hiring process, providing candidates and employers a chance to get acquainted before more intensive in-person interviews.

Understanding the significance of this initial screening and key players' roles can give you a distinct advantage in your job search.

Phone interviews serve as a crucial opportunity for hiring managers and recruiters to assess potential candidates for a job. This step not only helps streamline the selection process but also saves time and resources for both parties.

In addition, a phone interview or Zoom call is an excellent opportunity for job seekers to make a solid first impression, showcasing their qualifications, enthusiasm and fit for the company.

A phone interview's primary goal is to narrow the pool of applicants to a more manageable number for in-person interviews.

During this stage, recruiters and hiring managers aim to verify the candidate's basic qualifications, such as experience and skill set and gauge their interest in the position and the company.

Phone or Zoom interviews also allow interviewers to identify potential red flags that might disqualify a candidate from further consideration.

The hiring manager and recruiter each play a vital part in the phone interview process. While the recruiter is typically responsible for conducting initial phone screens, their primary goal is to identify the most suitable candidates for the hiring manager to consider.

The hiring manager, on the other hand, is involved in the decision-making process and focuses on evaluating the candidates based on their expertise, cultural fit and potential contribution to the team. The hiring manager and recruiter work together to ensure that the best candidates move forward in the hiring process.

Related: Small Business Phone Interviews

As you gear up for a phone or Zoom interview, you must be well-prepared to maximize this critical opportunity. In this section, you'll find key areas to focus on as you prepare to impress the hiring manager or recruiter and take a step closer to your dream job.

To demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and role, thoroughly researching the organization's culture and work environment is crucial.

This knowledge will not only help you tailor your responses to interview questions but also enable you to determine whether the company aligns with your values and preferences.

Utilize LinkedIn and other social media platforms to gather valuable insights into the company's values, recent achievements and industry trends.

Follow the organization's official accounts, connect with current employees and observe their posts and interactions to understand the company culture.

The company website is another rich source of information. Pay close attention to the "About Us" and "Careers" sections and any available blog posts or news articles.

These resources will help you understand the company's mission, vision and goals, which can be useful talking points during the interview.

Related: 7 Surefire Habits to Prepare for a Job Interview

In today's increasingly digital landscape, Zoom call interviews are becoming more common. Creating a professional and distraction-free environment is essential to excel in this format.

You should have good lighting with natural or soft light sources that evenly illuminate your face. Additionally, choose a quiet space free from background noise and potential interruptions and maintain a neat and uncluttered background to keep the focus on you.

By taking these steps, you'll make a strong visual impression and demonstrate your adaptability and preparedness for remote work, giving you a competitive edge in the hiring process.

A clear grasp of the job description and requirements is essential to effectively communicate your qualifications and suitability for the role.

Skill set and certifications

Review the job posting to identify the specific skills and certifications required. Be prepared to discuss your relevant experience and if you possess any additional qualifications that can set you apart from other candidates, be sure to mention them.

Management style and team members

Determine the company's management style and team structure by researching online or reaching out to your network. Understanding these dynamics will help you convey your ability to thrive in the given work environment and collaborate effectively with team members.

Before the interview, reflect on your career trajectory and how it has prepared you for the position.

Last job and career path

Consider the key takeaways and accomplishments from your previous job and be ready to articulate how they have shaped your career path thus far. Draw connections between your past experiences and the role you are pursuing, illustrating your growth and adaptability.

Current job and career goals

Reflect on your current role and how it aligns with your long-term career goals. During the interview, discuss the skills you have acquired, the challenges you have faced and the milestones you have achieved.

By connecting these experiences to your aspirations, you can demonstrate your motivation and commitment to the role, leaving a lasting impression on the interviewer.

Related: A Successful Career Path Doesn't Have to Be Linear

Armed with a thorough understanding of the company, role and experiences, you're ready to tackle the phone or Zoom interview. Below, you'll find common phone interview questions and guidance on answering them effectively.

When answering this open-ended question, consider providing a concise overview of your professional background, focusing on your most relevant experiences and achievements.

Highlight key aspects of your work history that align with the job requirements. Emphasize the skills and accomplishments in your resume that make you a strong candidate for the position and demonstrate how your career trajectory has led you to this opportunity.

To answer this question convincingly, articulate your enthusiasm for the company's culture, values and the specific job opportunity. Consider using the following goalposts:

Company culture and job opportunity

Explain what aspects of the company culture and work environment appeal to you and how they align with your values and preferences. Additionally, discuss the specific job opportunity and how it aligns with your career goals.

Project managers and software development

If the role involves working with project managers or in software development, share your experiences and accomplishments in these areas. Describe your passion for collaborating, solving problems and contributing to innovative projects.

This question aims to gauge your long-term career aspirations and how they align with the company's objectives.

Career path and next job

Discuss your desired career path and how the role you're interviewing for will help you achieve your objectives. Show enthusiasm for future growth and development within the company.

Additionally, it is often wise to acknowledge that the phone interview is just one step in the hiring process and express your eagerness to participate in subsequent in-person interviews to further discuss your qualifications and suitability for the role.

To answer this question effectively, focus on your unique skills, qualifications and experiences that make you the ideal candidate.

Skill set and certifications

Emphasize your relevant skills and any certifications that set you apart from other candidates. Showcase how these qualifications will enable you to excel and contribute to the company's success.

Work experience and management style

Discuss your work experience and management style, highlighting how they align with the company's needs and expectations. Provide examples of your achievements and how your approach to work would positively impact the team and organization.

When discussing salary expectations, you must be prepared with research and clearly understand your worth.

Salary range

Research the market rate for similar roles in your industry and location, considering your experience and qualifications. Some great resources include salary websites like Glassdoor, PayScale and Salary.com, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which provides national and regional salary data for various occupations.

Use this information to provide a salary range that reflects your value and is competitive in the job market.

Negotiation tips

Be prepared to negotiate if necessary. Approach the conversation with confidence, but remain flexible and open to compromise.

For example, consider discussing additional benefits or perks if the offered salary does not meet your expectations, and always remain professional throughout the negotiation process.

Related: 15 Top Tips for Salary Negotiations

While effectively answering questions is vital to a successful phone or Zoom interview, knowing how to navigate the interview process is equally important.

Below, you'll find strategies for tackling behavioral questions, identifying red flags, asking follow-up questions and handling situations where you may not know the answer.

Behavioral questions are designed to assess your past experiences and how you've handled various situations. Candidates benefit from using the STAR method to structure their responses clearly and concisely.

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result:

By following the STAR method, you can effectively showcase your problem-solving skills, adaptability and ability to learn from past experiences.

Throughout the phone interview, be attentive to potential red flags that could indicate issues with the company or role. These may include high employee turnover, vague job descriptions or unrealistic expectations.

If you notice any red flags, consider asking follow-up questions to clarify your concerns or conducting further research after the interview to make an informed decision about pursuing the opportunity.

Asking thoughtful follow-up questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and allows you to gather more information about the role and company.

For example, consider asking about the team structure, expectations for the role, opportunities for growth and development and the company's long-term goals.

These questions can provide valuable insights and help determine if the opportunity aligns with your career aspirations and values.

It's natural to encounter questions you may not know the answer to during an interview or Zoom call.

Instead of panicking or trying to bluff your way through the response, take a moment to gather your thoughts and consider the following strategies:

Once the phone interview or Zoom call is complete, it's essential to maintain a proactive approach to ensure you remain at the forefront of the hiring manager's mind.

Express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role by sending a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. This gesture demonstrates professionalism and serves as a reminder of your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

Stay organized by keeping track of your job search progress, including the interviews you've completed, any feedback received and upcoming opportunities. This will help you maintain momentum and ensure you're prepared for any additional interviews or follow-ups.

If the phone or Zoom interview goes well, you may be invited to an in-person interview. Use the insights from the phone interview to refine your approach and further research the company, role and relevant industry trends. Practice answering common in-person interview questions and consider potential scenarios you may encounter during the meeting.

Should you receive a job offer, take the time to evaluate the proposal carefully, considering factors such as company culture, growth opportunities and work-life balance.

If necessary, be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits to ensure the offer aligns with your worth and expectations.

Related: How to Write an Unforgettable Thank-You Note

Phone and Zoom interviews are critical to the hiring process, allowing candidates and employers to assess suitability and interest before moving forward.

By preparing thoroughly, researching the company and role, practicing answering common questions and effectively navigating the interview process, you can increase your chances of success and ultimately secure your desired position.

Remember to follow up after the interview, remain organized throughout your job search and be ready to evaluate and negotiate any job offers that come your way. With persistence and the right approach, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect job match.

Are you interested in learning more about job interviews and other business topics? Check out Entrepreneur's other articles for more.

Go here to read the rest:
Phone Interview Questions: What To Expect and How To Prepare - Entrepreneur

Ner elokim nismas adam.

Our neshama is compared to a fire, and there are a number of ways this can be manifested. What I have always considered the most poignant relationship between fire and soul is the constant pull to reach higher. A flame, no matter which way you turn it, will always face upward. Try it. Light a candle and watch the flame rise. Turn the candle on its side, forming a straight horizontal line. The flame still rises upward. Turn the candle upside down, and if you arent careful you will burn your finger, because the flame, of course, still rises upward.

Our neshama, no matter which way we turn and how far we stray, no matter what we fill it with and how we treat it, always yearns to reach upward, to connect to Hashem and to strive for growth. Through lifes distractions and temptations, confusion and deception, our neshamah is always reaching higher.

We celebrate lag bomer by lighting bonfires, to celebrate the Torah of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai that illuminates the world. Rashbi declared the day of his death a celebration, because while his body left this world, the essence of his neshamah contained within the brilliant Torah he left us, is still here, illuminating our world until today. On some level, we are celebrating the eternity of the soul on this day. And so, what better day is there to tune into the calling of our neshamah, that ever present desire to grow and better ourselves as people and avdei Hashem?

We surely value growth. Weve all put high up on our shidduch requirement list that we are seeking a growing person. But are we really growing? Its so easy to stagnate and chas veshalom regress. We live in a world that celebrates body over soul, with unprecedented material bounty but unprecedented spiritual pitfalls. Now more than ever we need to develop a growth mindset to help us constantly reach higher, no matter what twists and turns our life may take.

In honor of Lag BOmer, I am sharing thirty-three strategies that can help us all focus on our growth, for just a few moments every day.

Look Up: Seek out Hashem in your life. Ask yourself at least once a day, what does Hashem want from me right now, in this situation? The beauty of living a frum life is that it is a G-d-centered life. Hashem is everywhere, in the food that we eat and the schools we attend. But so much of it is subconcious or by rote. We need to actively put Hashem back into our lives in the conscious decisions we make, and then we will see growth.

Look Down: Act with humility. The number one deterrent to growth is ego, or gaavah. When we are full of ourselves, there is no room for growth. Recognizing how small we are in comparison to where we can be, and how much we still have to accomplish, will give us the impetus to grow to get there. Look in dont look at everyone else self-consious, peer pressure, what society wants from you, comparison, what will others say etc. what do I know to be right?

Look In: Practice tuning into your own sense of right and wrong as opposed to making decions fuled by peer pressure and societal judgment. We spend so much time looking over our shoulders and wondering what our neighbors would think and then making decisions based on that, that we neglect to consider what we know to be right. And you know how the quote goes, If you are so busy looking over your shoulder, you wont be able to see where you are going.

Look Out: Dont be self-centered by enclosing yourself in your own little world with no regard for how your actions affect others and for how you can make impact. Rather. take a few moments a day to look at the world around you, at the people around you, and ask yourself, How can I be of service to others today?

Recognize Your Strengths: When I say to be humble, I dont mean to look down on ourselves. On the contrary, if we think we are worthless, we wont get anywhere. Recognize your strengths. List them. What are you good at? And how can you use these strengths to become a better person?

Concretize Your Calling: While none of us are blessed with the knowledge of our individual tafkid in life, we do have a global mission as ovdei Hashem. The problem is, that we are so focused on getting through the minutiae of day-to-day life, we often lose sight of the big picture. Why am I doing this? What am I here for? Take a few moments to contemplate that and then distill into a sentence or two. Write it down and keep it where you can easily access it and check in. I am in this world to perfect myself and make the world a better place. My tafkid is to spend every minute of my life according to ratzon Hashem. I need to spread kavod shamayim with everything I do.

Learn Mussar: Sifrei mussar are the greatest catalyst to growth. Just taking a few minutes a day to learn them spurs us to greater heights because they place growth front and center on our minds and make us want to become better people. And of course, if you are having trouble with number 6, this can help you figure it out! So whether it is an English sefer or Hebrew, you are learning alone or with a friend, find a few minutes for mussar and your life will change!

Find Role Models: Where growth is a lofty concept, nothing concretizes it more than seeing where you want to be lived by those whove already gotten there. Find yourself role models whose level you can aspire to. It doesnt have to be only one. No one is perfect and youd be hard pressed to find someone whos every move and every attribute you admire. Thats fine too. You can find different role models in different midos and different areas. You can have a simchas hachayim role model, a role model parent, a role model in self-control.

Set Goals: If you dont know where you are going, how will you know when you get there? Define your goals and then set clear and measurable steps to help you get there.

Be Accountable: Sometimes we slack off because its easy to slip back into bad habits with no one the wiser. If you are seeking to grow in a particular area, find yourself a friend who will be your accountability partner. You can discuss your challenges and triumphs, give chizuk, encouragement and pats on the back. This can be a peer who is going through the journey together with you and you support each other in the same way, or more of a sponsor relationship, where you find someone who went through the struggle and is already there. They can help you from the vantage point of success, with the understanding of what it take sto get there.

Collect Quotes: I am a big fan of those pithy sayings that can be more motivating and empowering than volumes of self-help books. Ive been collecting them since high school, making posters and collages and hanging them all over. When you come across a powerful quote with a strong lesson, save it. Hang those quotes prominently so that you come across them multiple times a day and you can remind yourself of those important values we tend to lose sight of as we go about our day.

Practice Mindfulness: We tend to complain that we have no time to work on ourselves, what with the hecticness of this wonderful life we lead. Thats why this strategy is so great, because it requires no extra time, but rather it takes what we are doing anyway and elevates it to a new level. Become aware of what you are doing when you are doing it. Focus on what you are doing, on why you are doing it and what you are feeling as you are doing it. So much of what we do is done mindlessly, so take a few moments of the day to tune into yourself and your actions.

Ditch the Cynicism: When you are cynical about everything, you miss opportunities for growth. Open your mind to possibilities and dont take your healthy suspicions too far by turning bitter and cynical about anything and everything that is different than what you are used to.

Get Brave: While we of course focus on our positive attributes and use those to make an impact, we cant ignore our negative traits and the areas in which we need to grow the most. Choose to improve in an area that requires herculean strength, so that you can truly flex your growth muscles. This will be the hardest growth you achieve, but also the most rewarding and the most enduring.

Believe in Yourself: When were in growth mindset we tend to focus on how much we have left to go, but be sure to notice how far you have come. Believe that you have what it takes to get to where you want to go, and dont be too hard on yourself when the going is slow. You are strong, resourceful and special and there is no limit to what you can achieve when you set your heart and mind to it. Never forget that!

Be Grateful: Infusing gratitude into your life will give you the push to keep striving for more. Spend a few minutes in the morning, when you say Modeh Ani, and a few minutes in the evening, as you give closure to your day, reflect on all of the blessings and gifts you have been granted and feel that intense gratitude coursing through your soul. No matter the challenges you may be facing, feel grateful for all that you do have.

Take a Moment of Silence: We live in a world that is a constant cacophony of sound, and most of those sounds are of the variety that drowns out the sound of the soul and stifles our urge to grow. So take a moment of your day to sit in silence, with no one but yourself and Hashem. What you do in that silence is up to you, but make sure to take the time to create it.

Talk About Ideas: As per the quote, Small people talk about people; average people talk about things; great people talk about ideas, try to pivot one conversation a day from small-minded topics and turn it towards matters of the mind or soul. If the people you converse with on a daily basis are only interested in gossip and frivolities, then maybe its time to rethink your social circle!

Help Someone Else Grow: Being a part of someone elses growth journey will inevitably enrich your own. How can you help someone else grow today? How can you support them in their own growth and be a source of inspiration to them?

Daven: Tefillah is an effective strategy for growth on two levels. For one, the very act of davening with sincerity draws you closer to Hashem, so youve already grown. Also, you need His siyata dishmaya to help you stay on the upward track. Daven for continued success in this area, for as we know, nothing happens without tefillah!

Envision the Escalator: Life is such that there is no such thing as stagnation. If you are not growing you are slipping. It may be slow, it may be imperceptible, but the descent is real. I once heard that life is like trying to go up a down escalator. You cant just stand still, because then you end up going down. In order to get ahead while life around you is pulling you down, you need to be taking assured, effective steps upward. Close your eyes for a moment and envision yourself standing on that escalator and the steps you need to take to get up to the top, even as its taking you down.

Silence the Saboteur: Identify the forces that hold you back from growth, whether its your inner self-critic, your yetzer hara hindering you every step of the way, or doubt and confusion, and silence those voices. Speak back with a voice of strength and courage and squash the destructive messages they are trying to give you.

Get Up When You Fall: Dont let failures distract you from the goal. Sheva yipol tzadik vkam. You may have lost a battle but the war is still yours to win, which you wont be able to if you surrender right away. Dust yourself off, take a moment to breathe, and then plunge right in again.

Grow from Challenges: The deepest growth often comes from the most challenging times. Tragedies are given to us as a means of self-improvement, every test is an opportunity to find meaning and growth within it. If you are struggling, take the time to figure out how you can grow from this struggle, so that even your suffering can have meaning and purpose.

Build on Past Accomplishments: Let your previous successes catapult you to more successes. When you find stagnation setting in, let your mind travel back to a time when it did work. Feel that satisfaction that you felt then and then allow that feeling to motivate you to work even harder to recapture it.

Take Care of Yourself: This isnt a few moments a day kind of thing, but rather a lifestyle, but the bottom line is that as long as you are tired, hungry and irritable, overwhelmed and overloaded, life is less about thriving and more about surviving. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well and exercising so that you will be in the right frame of mind to move forward.

Find Meaning in the Words: You are saying the words anyway, you may as well find meaning in them. Whether its davening, bentching, brachos, or songs, understand and then focus on the meanings of the words and what they are trying to tell you.

Make a Cheshbon Hanefesh: Take a few minutes every day to go through what you did right and what you can improve, which situations warranted which reactions, and how you can react differently in the future.

Keep a Journal: Journaling helps you stay focused and makes sure you are checking in with yourself. It allows you to sort through your thoughts and to identify habits and tendencies. You can journal your process of growth specifically, writing down the steps you take, your progress, regressions, as you go along, or you can just keep a general journal. Both are beneficial.

Take Baby Steps: Great things happen one small step at a time. When you identify an area in which you would like to grow, dont sabotage yourself by taking it all on at once, setting yourself up for failure. Take one small step and repeat it until it is a part of you. Then go for another, and another. There is no limit to the heights you can achieve, one small step at a time.

Read Biographies: Reading about great people can inspire you to aspire toward greatness. While not always can we relate to every gadol and every level, there are so many steps until then, so many things we can learn from the giants of yesteryear, and spending time reading up on their lives can spur you onto greater things.

Purify Your Environment: While the push to grow has to come from within, it can definitely be influenced by outside forces. Surround yourself with people who inspire growth, spend your time in places that are good for your soul. Cut out venues that drag you down, whether it be a physical moshav leitzim or online platforms that drain the spiritual energy right out of you. Surround yourself with greatness, and by osmosis, some of it will seep into you.

Talk to Him: Besides for davening, keep a regular dialogue with Hashem as you go about your day. Tell Him about your struggles, thank Him for the blessings. I mentioned earlier making Hashem a part of our daily lives; talking to Him as if He is right there beside you is a surefire way to do that. After all, thats exactly where He is.

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The Fire Within: A Lag Bomer Primer for Growth - Between Carpools

Do you ever feel like youre your own worst enemy? Do you often feel like your thoughts are holding you back? Are you sick of feeling stagnant and unable to move forward in life?

If so, youre not alone. Many of us struggle with our inner critic, that voice in our head that tells us were just not good enough and will fail.

But what if I told you there are things you can do to swap your inner critic for your inner coach, and make deliberate intentions to create a happier, more meaningful life.

Here they are.

According to Ethan Kross, a leading expert on the conscious mind and psychologist in his book, Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness It most, if not, all of us, have a voice in our heads. The trick is to swap the inner critic for an inner coach.

Kross says, we often hear the advice to live in the moment, but this can be difficult for humans because we are wired to think about the past and plan for the future. Language is a powerful tool that we rely on to help us do many different things. Silently using language to talk to ourselves lets us keep information in our minds, plan, work through problems, remind ourselves of important goals and make sense of our experiences.

But we can also use language in a harmful way, and this is what is called chatter or as many of us call it, the monkey mind! Science defines chatter as getting stuck in a negative thought loop in which youre narrowly zoomed-in on a problem and cant work through it effectively. Chatter involves negative, self-defeating thoughts that can consume us and make us feel overwhelmed and stuck.

Many people struggle with this chatter, but there is hope. Rather than trying to silence our monkey mind, we can try to educate and motivate it.

Your inner coach is like your best friend, encouraging and supporting you every step of the way. The inner critic, on the other hand, tends to focus on defeating and negative self-talk.

The inner coach wants to help you build self-confidence, resilience, and reach your full potential. However, the inner critic is motivated by fear, trigger feelings of anxiety and self-doubt and has a desire to protect you from failure or disappointment.

The inner coach and inner critic represent two different aspects of our inner voice. Essentially the inner coach is like your most supportive and encouraging friend while the inner critic is like your worst enemy!

This involves reframing your negative thoughts in a more positive light. This step and the following 3 are from Ethan Kross who offers practical strategies and tools to help you harness your thoughts and internal chatter. Rather than jumping to negative conclusions or interpretations, its an opportunity to increase your confidence rather than focusing on the potential for failure.

For example, instead of telling yourself Im not good enough, you might try and reframe your thought and say instead, Im doing the best I can.

This involves using supportive language, focusing more on solutions than your problems. Kross says by learning to control the way we talk to ourselves; we can improve our mental and emotional wellbeing. We can learn to cope better with challenging situations. This technique can help to boost self-esteem and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression.

For example, if youre feeling overwhelmed by a task and feel it is too much, you could tell yourself instead that you are capable of completing it and that in fact you have overcome challenges in the past. This can help to build self-confidence and motivation.

When youre going through a tough time, use your name and the second person you rather than I to refer to yourself. It helps you be more objective, less consumed by your thoughts and make wiser decisions.

This involves taking a step back from your thoughts and emotions and view them objectively, as if you were an outside observer, rather than being consumed by them. This can reduce the intensity of negative emotions and stop them from overwhelming you. For example, if youre feeling angry with someone, you could try to view the situation from their perspective and consider why they are feeling that way. This can help you to be less judgmental and not consumed by your anger and resentment.

By treating ourselves with kindness and understanding, we can break free from the cycle of negative self-talk and judging ourselves harshly become more accepting. Self-compassion is strongly linked to our mental health and wellbeing. Studies have found that those who are more compassionate towards themselves tend to have less mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety and stress.

Through increased self-awareness, cultivated through mindfulness practice, it is possible to shift the quality of harsh, critical self-talk towards a more loving accepting relationship with ourselves which leads to greater wellbeing.

A good example is when you failed at something you can practice self-compassion by acknowledging that we are all human and we all make mistakes. See it as an opportunity to learn and grow. As they say, failure is the best teacher.

This involves taking a more active and intentional approach to personal growth and development through a structured process, using a variety of tools and techniques. In following this process, you will become more self-aware, manage your emotions and thoughts better, understand your core values, develop a compelling vision for your future and an action plan you will monitor.

Harnessing your inner coach, the voice inside you that encourages you to take risks, believe in yourself, and pursue your goals is a source of inspiration and is an integral part of this self-coaching process.

Coaching yourself involves using a variety of other tools and techniques, such as journaling and reflection, goal-setting and techniques on how to cultivate positive habits, to help you develop the skills and mindset you need to live a happier, more fulfilling life.

If you want to learn more about these powerful tools and strategies, I invite you to check out my latest YouTube video:

My Life Journal online course gives you the skills to coach yourself through a structured, step-by-step process so you can build positive habits, stay accountable, and make lasting changes. Whether youre looking to improve your health, relationships, change career, head into retirement or any other area of your life, Life Journal can help you get there.

I am currently offering a free 5-day challenge, Reset Your Life Compass to help you navigate your way to a more intentional, purposeful life you love.

Each day consists of a 5-minute video and an activity from the Life Compass workbook. By doing this challenge, you will have completed the first 2 modules of Life Journal. Click here to learn more.

Dont let your inner critic hold you back any longer. Join me on this journey to self-discovery and inspiration.

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7 steps to tame your inner critic and create a happier, more ... - Hack Spirit

Aaron Rash and Jack Endino

We love finding out more about the gear behind iconic albums, and some players might be surprised to hear the tube amp in the signal chain for Kurt Cobain's often metallic and sludgy tones on Nirvana's debut Bleach were courtesy of a Fender Twin Reverb owned by producer Jack Endino.

It's still with Endino, now at Soundhouse Studio in Seattle, and Nirvana fan Aaron Rash took a trip out to see and try it for himself.

Endino's assistant engineer saw Rash's video on recreating the tone to About A Girl from Bleach and reached out to the YouTuber to correct a photo detail in the video; Cobain actually used a Silverface Twin on the song, not a Blackface-era '67 as suggested. He then invited Rash to come and play the amp and meet Endino.

Rash brought his Univox High Flyer guitar with him; a model Endino hadn't seen since Cobain had one for Bleach. The producer then dialled in the controls for Rash to play About A Girl with a DS-1 for the overdriven parts. And there's the sound (accounting for the mic'd cab we hear on the record). With some pointers from Endino on chord voicings, no less!

"It definitely freaked me out because the moment I played that chord through that amp, I totally got goosebumps," admits Rash. "That was it that was that sound."

It's not a stock Fender Twin Reverb; Endino modded the amp himself. The producer noted the similarity to the schematic of the Fender Bassman and changed out the phase inverter circuit before the power amp section to make it more like the one in a 100-watt Bassman. But Endino's main mod was increasing some of the coupling caps in size between preamp and the power amp to get a little more low-end.

The amp has some unusual vents at the size that were there when Endino purchased it in 1983 and could have come that way from the studio.

Check out more of Aaron Rash's Nirvana videos at his YouTube channel.

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"This is one of the best amps I've ever played" new video ... - Yahoo Entertainment

Warren County youth sports coach convicted of child sex crimes asks to be released from prison  WLWT Cincinnati

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Warren County youth sports coach convicted of child sex crimes asks to be released from prison - WLWT Cincinnati

The pandemic has changed attitudes on spending, leisure and entertainment due to deeper shifts in human values and happiness. In China, and across the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a stratospheric rise in spiritual and self-improvement consumption. Natural pursuits, physical health, and mental wellbeing are all rising to the forefront when it comes to purchases.

Spending that will enhance personal mood and spirit has particularly grown with local Gen Z. A 2022 report jointly published by the research institute of e-commerce giant JD.com, Tencent Music, and podcast platform Himalaya found that more than 52 percent of Gen Z consumers are increasing their spiritual consumption in 2022. Movies, music, and (audio) books are the categories that have seen the most noticeable sales growth, while electronics such as smart earphones and VR glasses are also trending. Aromatherapy products are also favored by Gen Z consumers thanks to their healing and stress-relief properties.

After the pandemic started, I made fewer fashion and beauty purchases because there were fewer opportunities to go out. During the lockdown in Shanghai, I paid more attention to improving the usage and arrangement of my home space, a young Shanghai-based consumer Olivia Wang based previously stated to Jing Daily. For example, For instance, I purchased more kitchenware and aromatherapy products to lighten my mood. Passionate about dancing, I also acquired some indoor exercise and dancing equipment.

Since the pandemic, more shoppers are recognizing that health is wealth. Its no surprise that wellness, fitness and outdoor hobbies are being adopted as lifestyles and not just pursuits.

Outdoor athletic activities serves to improve health and fitness, however, the current trend differs from traditional outdoor sports in that they place greater emphasis on the leisure part of athleisure. With global travel in 2022 still a challenge, young Chinese people are exploring alternative ways to enjoy precious outdoor activities closer to home. Cycling, camping, frisbee, and skateboarding are the most notable emerging Gen Z hobbies. And the accompanying styles and fashions, such as mountaincore, have risen in online search, social media debates, and general popularity. Brands like Timberland, Patagonia, Arcteryx have tapped these trends, exposing a great opportunity to capitalise on this lifestyle shift.

Cycling: China is obviously no stranger to the pleasures of the bicycle. But starting this May and June, streets in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai became busier than usual with cyclists. On the social media platform Xiaohongshu, the keyword cycling has attracted close to 22 million views while searches related to cycling in the first quarter of 2022 have increased 230.8 percent year-on-year. JD.com reported a 240 percent year-on-year increase in cycling-related product sales from May 23 to 30. The likes of Lululemon partnered with Blue Yogurt to host branded cycling trips around cities like Shenzhen. Analysis suggests that over 55 percent of cycling-related content on Chinese social media is from those born after 1990. Short cycling trips in urban or suburban settings are popular and many KOLs are sharing fashion tips for recreational cycling.

Lululemon teamed up with Blueglass Yogurt to host a cycling activity in Shenzhen in May. Photo: Lululemon

Camping: Camping, especially higher-end glamping, surged in popularity in the spring and early summer of 2022. On the first day of the May 1st holiday, search volume for camping increased by 90 percent while ticket sales for parks that allow campsites grew by over 50 percent year on year. Chinas camping market is expected to reach $51.8 billion (354.6 billion RMB) this year, an 18.6 percent yearly increase. For Gen Z campers, relaxation and stress relief are the top motivations at 84.2 percent, while the most popular activities are barbecuing and picnicking at 91.2 percent. An accompanying retail boom has followed. For example, ABC Camping Country, a well-designed camping lifestyle collective store founded in 2020, has since quickly expanded to five Chinese cities.

Frisbee: Frisbee is making waves in China because it is perceived as fashionable, easy to play, and offers a great way to socialize outdoors. In June, searches related to the word frisbee on Xiaohongshu increased by about 98 percent year-on-year, while Frisbee-related content on the platform jumped by six times to around 500,000 posts. Millions have picked up the sport, making it more popular than soccer in 2022. Activewear brands, too, have jumped on the bandwagon, with several hosting frisbee events to promote their products and others launching flying disc-related collaborations an apt opportunity for nimble brands to tap into this growing trend.

Skateboarding: Young Chinese consumers flock to skateboarding for its challenge yourself attitude, alternative lifestyle, and opportunities for self-expression in the form of fashion and music. Theres also the artistic design and collectibility of skateboards. The inclusion of skateboarding in the Tokyo Olympics helped push it into Chinas mainstream and local giants like LiNing have collaborated on skate-themed drops with the likes of AAPE and SMFK. Sales of skateboard-related items rose 290 percent on Alibabas e-commerce platform Tmall between May 31 and June 3 for this years 6.18 Mid-Year Shopping Festival. And subsets of skating such as land surfing have gained virality and popularity with the countrys younger generations.Foreign and domestic sportswear and streetwear brands are vying to capture this rising market, including skate brand Supreme (of LV collab fame) which made its official debut in China as part of Dover Street Markets new three-story space in Beijing on November 5.

Li-Ning has collaborated with several brands on skateboarding-themed drops, including AAPE and SMFK. Photo: Li-Ning

At-home exercise has replaced social gatherings and shopping sprees as the main way for Gen Zers to reduce stress during the pandemic. It also quickly became a trendy activity during lockdowns, as shown by the skyrocketing popularity of Taiwanese singer-turned-personal-trainer Liu Genghong. On short video and livestream platform Douyin, workout sessions featuring Liu and his wife, set to renowned pop songs as background music, started an at-home exercise revolution. Within one month, the couple gained 64 million followers and their livestreams were viewed more than 100 million times. For context, it took seven years for leading fitness app Keep to claim 34 million monthly active users.

Liu Genghong and his wife Vivi Wang livestream their exercise and dance routines on Douyin. Photo: Liu Genghongs Weibo

While Lius popularity will eventually subside as normalcy returns, but his sessions introduced many people to the convenience of indoor exercise, which will remain a popular fitness format. According to a 2021 report by Mob Research Institute, 560 million Chinese will regularly exercise by the end of 2030, and over 22 percent of these fitness buffs are between the ages of 18 and 24. The popularity of indoor or cloud fitness has also boosted the sale of small exercise equipment and activewear in China.

The competition is increasingly fierce between big-name global brands like Lululemon and Nike and the Chinese brands like Maia Active and Neiwai Active that feature distinctly Asian fits and feminine details or soothing palettes. Yoga culture was influential for years before the pandemic but is now gaining mainstream popularity especially in first-tier cities thanks to dedicated IRL activations and digital ones such as Lululemons wellness campaign on Shanghais Bund.

This growing economy of self-improvement, spiritual wellbeing, and active lifestyles all go hand in hand. Consumption tied to the pursuit of self-betterment is appealing across generations of Chinese because more believe that health is wealth in this new era. While the acceleration of this market might ebb and flow depending on multiple factors, its direction is firmly on the up.

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Spiritual And Self-Improvement Economy Are On The Rise In China - Jing Daily

Suspended Kansas basketball coach Bill Self watched every second of Mondays season-opening win from his home in Lawrence, and, not surprisingly, it was the Jayhawks defense that stood out most to him.

I told the guys today, We dont guard, but we are a heck of a lot better defending than we were a week ago, Self said during his regular appearance on his Hawk Talk radio show Tuesday night.

Self, who will sit out KUs first four games of the 2022-23 season to serve a university-imposed suspension, was able to rejoin the team at midnight on Tuesday morning and worked with them in practice later that day. The restrictions put on him with the suspension cover the 24-hour periods of KUs first four game days.

Weve got to tighten up our ball screen defense or it will not be very pretty early, Self added during his assessment of his teams defense. I know we will. Last year we struggled with it until around Christmas. When we get better at that our defense will get a lot better, too.

There were plenty of things that Self liked about what he watched Monday night. And most of them had to do with individual performances and guys fitting into their roles.

You could make a case Gradey Dick was the best player on our team last night for a snippet, Self said on the radio show. You could make a case for Jalen Wilson, KJ Adams, Bobby Pettiford, Juan (Harris), and yet the guy who dominated the game more than anybody when we needed it the most was Kevin (McCullar Jr.). We go up from seven to 17 just like that (and) Kevin made every play during that stretch. Even though its never going to be like that, you saw flashes of each one, what they can potentially do and be. Thats exciting to me.

Self said he thought acting head coach, Norm Roberts, and the rest of the KU coaching staff ran things well in his absence. He also was pleased with the way the Kansas players carried themselves like it was any other game to pick up the 89-64 victory and move to 1-0 on the season.

I thought Norm and the staff did great, Self said. I thought the guys played hard. Their body language was good, all those things. I thought out of timeouts Norm got us easy shots a few times. That was good. Weve always taken pride in that.

Although hes not a fan of having to miss any time with his team, Self reiterated his stance from when the suspension was announced, calling the suspensions of him and assistant coach Kurtis Townsend, the right thing to do.

Having a veteran like Roberts and a roster full of players who are locked in to what needs to be done helped make his viewing experience from home much easier to swallow.

Hopefully what happens on game day is a reflection of what happens in practice the other five days of the week, Self said.

Next up, KU will play host to North Dakota State at 7 p.m. Thursday at Allen Fieldhouse.

The Bison are 0-1 on the season after falling at Arkansas, 76-58, on Monday. NDSU was picked to finish fourth in the Summit League in a preseason vote of the conferences coaches.

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Suspended Kansas basketball coach Bill Self saw defensive improvement while watching from home - KUsports