If you are/were a working mother, how long was your maternity leave? Did your spouse also receive any time off after your child’s birth? Although some companies have been offering parental leave for many years, it’s nothing like what is happening at Netflix who is now becoming an industry leader for offering any new parents paid leave during the entire first year of their child’s life. Sound amazing and a little crazy? Well, it’s based on research showing that employees who are not worried about home life are more efficient and productive. Imagine being able to have your cake and eat it too.
Category: Economics
What’s Holding You Back?
Ever not answered the phone because you knew it was a creditor trying to collect on your college debt? Over the last many years, education debts have increased while job opportunities declined. This has caused many people in the under-thirty category to be unable to follow the “usual” path of work, home ownership and family. Statics are showing that many people are overwhelmed by debt and underemployed leaving the economy in a precarious place as these groups continue to reduce their spending. How do we create affordable education and jobs upon graduation? And where will this vicious cycle end?
The Ball and Chain of Student Debt
He ‘Monopolized’ Her Time
The story you’ve always heard about Monopoly the board game isn’t quite the whole truth. Who knew that a woman created a version of the game years before Charles Darrow, the depression era “savior” of Parker Brother’s? Elizabeth Magie was quite a progressive woman for her time. She supported herself, didn’t marry until the age of 44 and spent her free time working on a game that would help the world understand how monopolies broke down society and crushed small business. How interesting that a man took what a woman began and made a fortune? Hmm…
Monopoly’s Inventor: The Progressive Who Didn’t Pass ‘Go’
They’re Out To Get Me!
Thin Mints, Samoas, Do-si-Dos, Lemonades… Whatever your favorite, the girls seem to be at every store, down every street and even on college campuses. The Girl Scout cookie sale in Texas ranges from January to early April and during these months, they are out in force. How many times have you heard, “Would you like to buy a box of Girl Scout cookies?” in the last week? Ever wonder where the money goes and just how much each troop makes for standing in the cold day after day, hocking the devilish delights? It’s actually a pretty good deal for all, with incentives such as a free week of summer camp and troop bonuses based on number of boxes sold. Even though this is an old article, it explains the process of cookie money allocation very clearly and shows how the money stays in the area. So, next time you’re out and about, be sure and “buy local.”
Girl Scout cookies by the numbers: Just where do all those dollars go?
Save Now, Save Later
Up for a challenge? Then give “No-Spend-November” a try. Be part of this new trend and see what it can do for you. The woman featured in the article says it saved her finances and even helped her get on the path to saving for various goals. Just imagine if skipping the takeout for a month could free up the cash to pay-off a credit card or finance that trip you’ve been wanting to take? Would you be willing to try it? You know you want to, so get thinking and stop spending!
‘No-Spend November’ Can Help You Find Leaks in Your Budget
I’d like a half-caf, decaf, mocha latte, half foam with a dash of cinnamon…
Where did you get coffee on your last business trip? Chances are it was a Starbucks; according to reports based on recent expense account processing. Even though it’s not the most economical place for a java, it is convenient. Surprisingly, the study goes on to say that millennials are spending less on food while traveling, and tend to eat at familiar chain restaurants. Especially ones who offer wi-fi.
Oh, and next time you’re there, ask for a ceramic mug and hang out for a while.
Business Travelers Pick Starbucks on the Go
Are you a Gambler?
Concerned about the current state of the market? Not sure is you should hold ’em or fold ’em?
Walk away or run?
David Yeske, a financial planner in San Francisco, recently sent out a calming note to his clients explaining that downturns are inevitable, but he offered another strategy. He offered some “fun and uplifting” distractions from the scary headlines, and he provided links to videos featuring a rendition of “Stand by Me,” and a flash mob.
Read the full story here:
Market Turbulence Serves as Reminder to Tread Lightly
Spice It Up, Y’all!
The joke in my hometown was to give newlyweds a bottle of Tabsco sauce and then challenge them to make it as a married couple long enough to use it up completely. Or, at times people would remark, “We’ve been married two bottles worth,” meaning forever, because the stuff is so hot, who needs more than one or two drops? Ever wonder how it was invented? Well now you’ll know!
Accommodate Your Budget
It’s almost the end of summer. Time for a last minute trip? We always talk about making our money work for us, so Seth Kugel offers a detailed list of suggestions for getting a hotel room at the absolute, best price. Through these seven simple steps, he assures that you’ll end up with a four-star experience at a two-star price.
nyti.ms/1nsVkuT (7 Steps to a Cheaper Hotel Room)
