Today’s tenant experience goes far beyond just signing a lease. It’s shaped by the small, everyday interactions that define convenience and comfort—like the ability to park without stress. In fast-paced urban environments, these touchpoints matter more than ever. Parking management companies are stepping up with modern strategies and smart technology that transform how tenants interact with their space from the moment they arrive.
Parking isn’t just a logistical issue—it plays a major role in how tenants perceive a property. Frustrations over access, delays, or unclear systems can quickly sour an otherwise positive living or working experience. Property managers focused on tenant satisfaction are turning to practical upgrades: faster entry, stronger security, and streamlined systems.
Making Tenant Parking Easier with Smarter Management
Digital permits and license plate recognition systems have changed how tenants access parking. There’s no more fumbling with old hang tags or badges that cause delays. These tools, often implemented by a parking management company, let tenants enter smoothly, improving the overall experience from the moment they arrive. Some systems even allow tenants to register multiple vehicles under one account, making it easier for households or employees with more than one car.
Centralized dashboards are key to running things efficiently. They show real-time data about available spots and help track vehicles. This not only makes things easier for property owners but also helps tenants avoid the hassle of wondering if they’ll find parking.
Tailoring Access and Pricing for Different Tenant Needs
Parking access shouldn’t feel like a one-size-fits-all uniform—it should function more like a tailored suit. Tiered access levels meet a variety of needs, from occasional guests to full-time staff who rely on a daily reserved spot. Premium zones near entrances or exclusive areas for executives add a thoughtful layer of personalization that respects different roles and routines.
Dynamic pricing acts like a thermostat for demand, adjusting based on time of day or usage patterns. Tenants gain options that fit their specific schedules and budgets, while property managers gain more control over flow and availability. Flexibility like this turns parking from a pain point into a perk.
Using Technology to Run Parking More Smoothly
Technology is transforming how parking works for both tenants and property managers. Real-time space tracking lets tenants head directly to open spots, cutting confusion and saving time. Features like color-coded lights above spaces guide drivers instantly, reducing the need to circle and easing internal traffic. These small touches make a big impact on day-to-day convenience.
Cashless payment has also become standard, allowing license plates to link with apps for automatic billing—no cards, no delays. Vehicles can move in and out without stopping, which keeps traffic flowing. These smart tools do more than speed things up—they reduce friction, improve daily routines, and raise the overall standard of tenant convenience.
Improving Security and Following Rules in Parking Areas
Automated systems bring a smarter, more consistent approach to parking security. License plate readers and overhead cameras can flag unauthorized vehicles instantly, helping staff respond before small issues become larger problems. These tools also help maintain fairness by protecting reserved spots and preventing overcrowding, giving both tenants and managers greater confidence in how parking is monitored and enforced.
Routine audits based on usage data provide another layer of insight. Managers can spot trends—like frequent violations in specific zones or peak times for misuse—and adjust policies accordingly. Quick action on tenant feedback reinforces trust and creates a parking environment that feels monitored, fair, and responsive.
Making Admin Tasks Easier for Everyone
Managing parking logistics doesn’t have to involve piles of paperwork or scattered spreadsheets. Centralized platforms bring everything—billing, spot assignments, and lease details—into one streamlined system. Tenants can view their payment history, manage vehicle information, and update contact details without waiting on manual support.
For property managers, these tools offer real-time insights into revenue and usage patterns, helping spot issues before they escalate. Automated reporting reduces time spent on routine tasks and frees up attention for more strategic decisions. When admin processes run smoothly, the entire parking experience feels more organized, transparent, and easy to manage for everyone involved.
Smarter parking is quickly becoming a cornerstone of tenant satisfaction. With tools like digital permits, license plate recognition, and real-time tracking, parking transforms from a daily hassle into a seamless part of the experience. Tenants benefit from less guesswork and more control, while property managers gain clearer oversight and faster issue resolution. Tiered access and dynamic pricing add flexibility that meets diverse needs, from occasional visitors to everyday commuters. Self-service tools empower users to stay updated without extra friction. As expectations rise in urban living, properties that invest in smarter parking will lead the way in delivering a more intuitive experience.
The days might be getting longer and, thankfully, hotter for some of us already, but just because you don’t have to keep your heating on all day anymore doesn’t mean that your energy bills aren’t still a concern. As the cost of living goes up, you need to learn to make the most of your money, even during the height of summer. So, how do you stay comfortable while keeping your costs low?
Embrace Natural Cooling
When you can, instead of turning on your cooling, try opening your windows and doors. This can be especially effective at cooling the home down during the cooler parts of the day, such as in the evening after a sunny day. Opening your windows not only helps to cool the home down without spending energy, but it can also increase the comfort in your home by maintaining clean air quality, as well. Plants can help make the home more comfortable, too, not by cooling it down but by releasing moisture, avoiding the dryness that can make it feel that much hotter.
Use Your Fans More Often
While they do not lower the overall temperature of a room, if you’re simply looking to stay comfortable, then fans can be efficient tools for helping you do that. Whether it’s a ceiling fan, box fan, or standing fan, they are much more energy efficient than turning on your AC, and they circulate the air to create a nice wind-chill effect.
Insulation Is Important In The Summer, Too
Usually, when you think of insulation, you think of its role in keeping the chill out of your home during the winter. However, insulation can play just as important a role in the summer, slowing the transfer of heat into the home from the outdoors, meaning that your AC doesn’t have to work as hard. You can also invest in insulation for your windows, such as heavy curtains or thermal shades, to block solar heat and keep it cooler inside.
Maintain Your Cooling Systems
As is the case with any eclectic appliance, your AC systems need regular maintenance to prevent wear and tear. From dirty filters to clogged ducts, there is a host of issues that can reduce your machine’s efficiency and leave it open to malfunctions, interrupting its purpose entirely. Invest in regular maintenance roughly once a year, preferably toward the start of the warm season, to extend the lifespan of your appliance.
Take Shorter, Cooler Showers
As comforting as a hot shower may be, it can contribute to the heat in the home overall, raising the temperature and making the air more humid. This can make your AC systems work harder to cool the home. Taking shorter showers and keeping the temperature cooler can lessen the demand on your appliances while also helping you save water. Plus, there are few things as refreshing as a cool shower on a hot summer day.
There are plenty of other ways to make sure that you keep your energy bills lower, from switching out to LED lights to making sure that you don’t leave unused appliances plugged in with the power on. However, it’s important to ensure that the comfort and safety of your family come first, so use the tips above with moderation.
Feeling that familiar tax season stress creeping in?
You’re not alone. As the calendar turns and deadlines start knocking, employers everywhere begin sorting through spreadsheets, double-checking paperwork, and asking themselves, “Did we get everything right this time?”
Tax season has a way of sneaking up, even when it’s expected. For businesses, it’s not just about sending out W-2s or tallying expenses. It’s about staying compliant with federal requirements, meeting deadlines, and avoiding the kinds of penalties that love to show up after the fact.
In recent years, tax season has become even more layered. Between shifts in labor trends, the rise of remote work, and ever-changing federal guidelines, employers now have to juggle more moving pieces than ever before. From classifying workers correctly to understanding the full range of annual forms, the margin for error is shrinking.
And while the basics of business filing haven’t changed much, the scrutiny and expectations have. The IRS isn’t in the mood for guesswork. Employers are expected to stay informed and up to date—no matter how complicated the paperwork gets.
In this blog, we will share the essential things every employer should know before tax season, how recent trends are reshaping compliance, and why attention to detail now can save you headaches later.
The Forms You Can’t Ignore
Let’s talk forms—not the thrilling part of running a business, but absolutely one of the most important.
Beyond the usual tax documents, many employers must navigate federal healthcare reporting. This includes staying current with 1095 reporting requirements, which apply to businesses that meet the criteria of an Applicable Large Employer (ALE) under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
If your company had 50 or more full-time employees—or full-time equivalents—last year, the IRS expects you to report whether you offered health coverage and what kind. These forms, specifically the 1095-C and the cover sheet 1094-C, must be filed accurately and on time.
Sound complicated? It can be. These documents help the government track compliance with healthcare mandates. But they also serve employees, helping them complete their own tax filings and claim credits where eligible.
The catch? Even a small error in these forms can cause confusion, trigger fines, or delay employee filings. That’s why employers need a system—whether in-house or outsourced—to manage this reporting carefully.
The broader point here is this: tax season isn’t just about income anymore. It’s about full transparency. The IRS wants to know not only what you paid but also how you supported your workforce.
Why This Year Feels Different
Every tax season is intense, but recent years have added extra layers. Hybrid work models, staff turnover, and fluctuating employment patterns have made recordkeeping more challenging.
Add in inflation, rising healthcare costs, and updated IRS rules, and it’s easy to see why many businesses feel like they’re juggling too much. Deadlines have become more rigid. Filing mistakes that once earned a warning now result in automatic penalties.
The move toward digitization is another factor. Most businesses now file electronically, especially those with ten or more forms. While that streamlines the process, it also leaves little room for delays. The system expects precision—and it expects it fast.
This push toward stricter compliance isn’t going anywhere. In fact, the IRS is investing heavily in improved data analysis. That means errors or inconsistencies can be spotted more quickly than ever before.
Employers need to see tax season not just as an obligation, but as a test of internal systems. Are your records consistent? Are your classifications correct? Are your reporting tools keeping up with the law? If not, now’s the time to fix it.
Classifying Workers Correctly Still Matters
One mistake that continues to haunt businesses? Misclassifying employees.
It might seem like an innocent misstep—hiring someone as a contractor who should be an employee. But the IRS doesn’t see it that way. Misclassification affects taxes, benefits, and compliance, and it comes with steep consequences.
With more people working flexible schedules or remotely, the lines can blur. But when it comes to tax filing, the definitions are clear. Employees must receive W-2s, while independent contractors get 1099s. Health benefits, taxes withheld, and access to workplace protections all hinge on getting this right.
During tax season, the clarity (or confusion) of these records shows up fast. A mismatched name, an incorrect EIN, or an outdated address can delay filings and lead to unnecessary audits.
That’s why January is a great time to review your records and make sure everyone’s status is accurately documented. It’s also smart to educate your HR or payroll team on how those statuses affect filings later in the season.
Documentation is Your Best Defense
Tax season isn’t just about sending out forms—it’s about having the receipts.
The IRS doesn’t ask for your backup files unless something goes wrong. But when it does, those records can mean the difference between a minor correction and a costly penalty.
If you offer healthcare, keep copies of plan summaries and employee notices. If someone opts out, make sure that decision is on file. If a form is corrected, keep track of the date and reason.
Documentation should be thorough but accessible. If someone in HR leaves mid-year or if a vendor changes systems, you shouldn’t lose access to critical files. Cloud-based records, secure platforms, and user permissions can all help keep your documentation protected.
And remember, taxes aren’t just an annual event. They’re a reflection of decisions made throughout the year. Staying organized as you go can make January through April much smoother.
Working Smarter, Not Just Harder
Many businesses now rely on outside partners to manage the complex parts of tax season. That includes filing healthcare forms, managing payroll tax submissions, and providing support during audits.
The right tools and partners can catch errors early, remind you of deadlines, and make the entire season less stressful. But these systems are only as good as the data you feed them.
So before tax season starts, take time to do a full review. Audit last year’s process. See where things slowed down or went wrong. Check if you missed any IRS updates.
Proactivity beats panic every time. And with so many free resources now available—IRS webinars, industry blogs, even virtual workshops—there’s no reason to go into filing season blind.
However, even the most proactive employer can make mistakes. If you receive notice of an audit or concern regarding your tax status, you need to contact a qualified tax attorney, such as Glen Frost, to help you determine your next course of action and remedy any errors that may have occurred.
Accuracy Now, Peace Later
Tax season may never be your favorite time of year. But it doesn’t have to be a disaster.
With smart preparation, clear records, and a strong understanding of what forms matter most, you can stay ahead of problems before they start. And in today’s compliance-heavy world, that peace of mind is worth more than ever.
So take a deep breath. Pull up your calendars. And start early. Your future self—and your balance sheet—will thank you.
Once again in 2025, Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world. This is the eighth consecutive year this has happened and so its good to look to see if there are lessons to be had. It is also worth evaluating in a fresh way if these Finnish sources of happiness will translate to other places like the US. Here we go to see if there are lessons to be learned, particularly for the US where the vibecession has been in full swing for a while now.
Keeping the Right Pace
In Finland, activities like going to the sauna and hygge culture are deeply entrenched. It is also common to get out in nature even when its very cold outside. These rhythms keep people moving at a pace that feeds the soul, but also values comfort. This stands in contrast to aspects of American culture that values busy schedules and hardcore fitness. It is pretty easy to see that if it is normal to focus on slower pace and cozy vibes then people would be happier. The big challenge for someone in the US is that we fill our schedules so quickly and so its good to take a look at a different way of doing things to draw ideas, but also to normalize simpler patterns of life.
If thinking of the happy Finns helps you take some time to relax and read a book rather than focusing on a side-hustle, then go for it.
Accepting Discomfort as Part of Life
One of the most interesting things about Finland and the other Scandinavian nations consistently being the happiest in the world is that they are cold and dark for much of the year. These are not the most pleasant places on the planet, but this also plays in their favor.
There is a built in acceptance of the challenges of the Scandinavian winter which helps to keep it from bringing the mood down as one would expect it to. This is the thing that stands out the most for the Finnish happiness equation. Having a way to frame the challenges of your particular situation that still allows for enjoyment is an amazing gift.
This is the piece that relates to money the most in 2025. Inflation has been taking a bite out of every budget and there are simply inherent challenges with affording homes in most cities. This is the financial climate that we will be in going forward. The hope is always that things improve, but these are huge trends and so a good comparison is the coming of a Scandinavian winter.
If you prepare for the challenge, then its much easier to take on and overcome. If the Finns were all on social media looking at pictures of Costa Rica all winter, I assume they would not be as happy.
Happiness as the Foundation, not the Result
The Finns need to be good at happiness to survive their cold, dark winters. They recognize this and they’ve built their culture around it. Another side effect of this is that the Scandinavian countries are also relatively wealthy. If you are good at finding happiness it helps to fuel you to in your pursuits whether its a business or a challenging career.
As Americans, our greatest struggle would seem to be discontent. We are conditioned not to be satisfied by our current situation and we are increasingly able to identify the ways the world isn’t living up to our expectations. Then add to this that we are facing plenty of challenges and it quickly feels like we should just give up.
Its like we are headed into December north of Arctic Circle and we haven’t prepared for the journey. That is the lesson from the Finns. They know how to confront the uncomfortable and still find joy in it. That provides the foundation to work from as we build businesses and look for grow wealth. That gives the fuel for the journey that will likely take longer than you expect and contain plenty of discomfort. If you can stick it out, the payoff will be awesome, but you have to feed your happiness along the way to win.
As Americans, its helps to steal a bit from this Finnish way of thinking.
If your crypto portfolio were a kitchen, the blockchain is the cupboard you keep stuffing full of tins until one falls on your toe. Every swap, stake and cheeky meme‑coin punt scribbles another immutable entry in the ledger. Before you know it, you are scrolling block explorers like a detective who has lost the plot. Handling that torrent of numbers is not glamorous, yet the wallets that treat data like royalty often pull ahead of those that fly on vibes alone.
Start With a Clean Wallet
First job: tidy up. Prune dust tokens, merge loose change and maybe spin up a fresh wallet for the next round of degen antics. The clearer your starting point, the easier it is to spot patterns. Think of it like clearing old pizza boxes before you work out which houseplants are dying. Less clutter means faster insights and fewer late‑night panics.
Tools of the Trade
Block explorers such as Etherscan and SnowTrace are your friendly crypto librarians. They catalogue every transaction with brutal honesty. Hook their APIs into a humble spreadsheet or a fancier dashboard and you can slice the data however you fancy. CSV exports drop straight into Google Sheets where pivot tables become your personal money microscope. There are premium analytics platforms too, but do not assume a hefty subscription will fix sloppy habits.
Naming and Shaming
At some point you will stare at a string of letters and numbers and wonder, is that the LP token I staked or the mystery airdrop I forgot? The smartest move is to label blockchain addresses the moment you first see them. A nickname like “Arb farm March” will jog your memory six months later when market prices have moved and your motivation has not. Skip this step and future you will sulk, hunting transaction hashes at 2 a.m. with only cold coffee for company.
Metric Magic
Once addresses are tagged and transactions are tidied, you can start teasing out stories. Calculate average buy price across wallets to know whether you are actually in profit or merely delusional. Track gas fees as a separate column so outrageous network sprees do not eat silent holes in your gains. Build a running total of realised versus unrealised profit to decide when to sell rather than guessing on social media sentiment.
Beat the Bots
Data discipline lets you front‑run the lazier masses. If you see whale wallets repeatedly farming a new protocol before it trends, you can hop on early. When stablecoin inflows spike on a chain, perhaps a fresh launch is brewing. None of this is insider information. It is public bread crumbs that most people are too distracted to follow. Your neat database effectively becomes a homemade alpha factory.
Final Thoughts
Blockchain data is noisy but it is also free alpha wrapped in hex. Treat it with respect, and those unremarkable rows turn into better entries, timelier exits and fewer face‑palm moments. The difference between lucky punts and consistent gains is usually organisation, not genius. Give your spreadsheets the love they deserve and the blockchain will quietly reward the effort while everyone else is still doom‑scrolling price charts.
If you are planning on starting to invest in property, and you are wondering about what you might need to know in order to make it work for you, there are actually quite a few considerations that are going to be worth thinking about here. The truth is that investing in property is more or less always a good idea, but that isn’t to say that it’s always done well. There are a lot of things you will need to consider when it comes to investing in your first property, and in this post we are going to go through some of those in detail.
Understand Your Reasons
Most people skip this step, and that is a big part of why they often end up failing in their investment plans. You need to understand, as fully as possible, your reasons for investing. The more clear you are on this, the more that you will be able to get out of the whole situation, so it’s a really important consideration to make. Get clear on your goals, be they rental income or capital growth, or something else entirely. This will shape your strategy, which will dictate how successful your investments are likely to become.
Find The Right Professionals
There are a lot of professionals out there who can help you to know what you are doing, and it’s going to be hugely important to make sure that you find them as soon as possible. For instance, you will find it invaluable to partner up with a good estate agent, and that’s something you should look for right away. You might also want to find someone who can help you with insurance, such as an insurance attorney, as that is a really important part of protecting your asset. Having professional help really does make a difference.
Know Your Budget
This is clearly vital, because it will dictate everything else quite a lot, so you really need to make sure that you are aware of this and doing all you can to get it right. Knowing your budget is even more important than making your budget bigger – as long as you have a good sense of what you are going to need and when, you can then ensure that your investment is going to be stronger and more sensible. So make sure that you are thinking about this and doing all you can to know your budget well.
Be Careful With Location
You will already be aware of how important location is for any property you might be investing in, so it’s a good idea to make sure that you are taking care with this and picking something that is in the kind of location you can really find helpful. This is going to make a huge difference to your investment and will ensure that it is going to be a lot safer, so it’s something that you really need to think about if you want to make this a success.
Tax season is the period each year when individuals and businesses prepare, file, and pay taxes to the government. In the United States, taxes are paid primarily to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS begins accepting tax returns around mid-January, with a typical filing deadline of April 15.
The Internal Revenue Service had processed 100.1 million federal income tax returns as of April 5, 2024, according to the American media website CNET. The income tax return collected for April 2024 is 0.3% less than the 100.3 million processed by the same time last year.
If you can’t file by April 15, you can request a 6-month extension (to October 15) using Form 4868. Keep in mind that you still have to pay any taxes owed by April 15 to avoid penalties. A Jacksonville tax preparation attorney says they can help guarantee that a person’s taxes are filed efficiently and correctly, giving peace of mind to clients during tax season.
Whether you are an employee, self-employed, or a business owner, being organized and informed can help you maximize your deductions, avoid costly mistakes, and comply with all relevant tax laws.
In this article, you will learn the essential steps on how to confidently prepare for the tax season and potentially reduce your tax liability.
Gather Your Financial Documents
Compiling and organizing your financial paperwork makes the filing of taxes easier. Your financial documents should include the employer’s W-2 form, which shows your income and tax payments for the year. If you are self-employed, you will not need a W-2 but should instead collect 1099 forms.
You will have to collect interest statements for banks and investment accounts. Save all deductible receipts, like medical bills and business expenses. Gather all the purchase and sales receipts for the property too.
Keep your last two years’ tax returns. These documents can serve as reference and help you identify which documents you’ll likely need again.
Store all of your tax documents in one location for ease of access and to avoid misplacing them when tax season comes. Keeping your records well-organized and protected reduces the risk of tax fraud.
The Law Offices of Timothy R. Anderson, LLC, says tax fraud includes not paying taxes that are owed, including failing to file a tax return, filing a false return, not reporting income, or knowingly taking an unauthorized deduction.
Understand Your Deductions and Credits
Understanding deductions and tax credits can maximize your tax savings. A deduction decreases taxable income. Meanwhile, a credit decreases the amount of tax one owes.
List some of the common tax deductions, such as mortgage interest, student loan interest, and medical costs. Don’t forget to take into account the deduction for state and local taxes.
The more tax credits you qualify for, the more you can reduce the amount of tax you owe. Examples of tax credits are the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and educational credits.
Have proper records for the deduction and credit. If you are unsure about which benefits you are eligible for, seek the advice of a tax professional.
Choose the Right Filing Method
After understanding your deductions and credits, figure out which filing method suits you best. There are different avenues for you to file taxes, including the traditional manual way, using tax software, or using an online tax service.
Manual filing is suitable for hands-on individuals with simple finances who manage their financial data. Those who want to file their taxes quickly and reduce the risk of errors can opt to use the software method of filing.
An online setup provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of filing taxes. Evaluate your comfort level with technology, the complexity of your taxes, and your budget on hand to help you decide which tax filing service to use.
Choosing the right method can help you file taxes faster and maximize your tax returns.
Consider Hiring a Tax Professional
Letting a professional guide you through tax season can only make the process easier and smoother for you.
A tax professional is trained to check your documents and see to it that all the deductions and credits are included. Moreover, tax laws change every year, and a tax professional can help make certain that your return is in conformity with the law. A tax professional keeps you compliant with changing tax laws and provides peace of mind during tax season.
If your financial situation is complex, including incorporating a business, managing multiple income sources, investing in real estate, or possessing numerous assets, a professional can provide valuable insights and advice specifically tailored to your tax needs.
Investing in a tax professional will save you time and stress and let you focus on other important things. Evaluate your situation and determine whether the benefits of hiring a tax lawyer outweigh the costs.
Review and Double-Check Your Return
Always review and recheck your tax documents before submitting them to avoid costly mistakes that can cause unnecessary problems.
Make sure all the basic information, such as the SSN, name, and address, has been accurately entered. Check if you have accounted for all of your income sources.
Missing or incorrect entries may lead to delayed refunds or the dreaded audit. If you have taken additional deductions, verify their validity and attach proper documentation.
A mathematical miscalculation can significantly impact your tax liability, which is often overlooked. To save time, money, and stress, use a tax preparation program to evaluate your return and then have it reviewed by a trusted tax professional.
There are a myriad of ways that the modern world pushes on our brains and bodies in ways that are challenging. We have easy access to way more calories, options and stimulation than any generation in history. This creates challenges for staying fit, paying attention and managing the budget.
There is a lot of content lamenting our current state, but these changes are hear to stay and will likely only increase since all of the pressures are connected to huge companies making more money. So what can be do? I’d propose we start with thinking through four types of fasting that can help to break out of the ruts that are so easy to fall into.
Fasting from Food
I’m not going to discuss a more traditional style of fast associated with not any food for a period of time like 24 hours. There is plenty of great content on that topic out there. I want to focus more on how abstaining from certain foods or food at certain times can help us reset and thrive.
Elimination Diets
An elimination diet involves cutting out certain types of food like milk, eggs, dairy or processed foods for a period of time to test the impact on the body. The central idea here is that modern food is pushing on the boundaries of what our bodies can handle. For many of us, if we are feeling a bit off in some way, there is a good chance that we are over our tolerance for some type of food.
Additionally, one of the biggest challenges our bodies face that cause a myriad of disorders is heightened inflammation. There may be a more significant medical issue at hand, but often times, the issue is something in the diet that is out of balance for the systems.
Regardless of what might be going on with you personally, an elimination diet may provide a doorway to unlocking better overall health.
Intermittent Fasting
This is one I have personal experience with since I have often started work very early and so I would skip breakfast due to not being hungry at 5:30 in the morning. However, along with this I noticed that I felt more attentive in my morning work hours and generally noticed that it was easier to keep weight off.
I started hearing people talk about intermittent fasting a few years later and wasn’t surprised based off my experience. This can involve simply cutting off food intake by a particular time in the evening and then planning to wait until lunch the next day for a first meal. Additional detail can be added depending on what level of results a person is looking for, but the awesome benefit of controlling the time you eat is that it allows a bit more freedom in what you do eat.
Another benefit to the intermittent fasting is that is creates a bit more rigid schedule for food which also helps the grocery budget. Any time we simplify a certain aspect of our lives, it tends to have a positive effect on our finances.
Fasting from the Internet
Similar to food, this isn’t necessarily focusing on a full blackout since that is challenging to pull off, but it may be worth it for a season. The primary challenge here is our constant access to cheap dopamine which then has numerous adverse effects on our brains.
To survive in the modern cell phone age, we need some sort of plan to pace our access to the internet and social media. This is definitely something that isn’t a space for a one-size-fits-all approach, but is really something each individual needs to thing through. Here are some options that I’ve employed:
- Deleting all social media apps and YouTube on my phone for a week
- Putting the phone away at 7 PM and not checking when I go to bed
- Media free evenings for the whole family
- Only reading first thing in the morning before work
As a family with two young teens, my wife and I are always tinkering with the amount of screen time that makes sense for their development. Along with that, it would be very hypocritical if we didn’t work on our screen time as well. After all, the goal is to be in the healthiest space we can as a family and so it’s best if we all find ways to limit our screens.
Fasting from Busyness
Busy schedules are the number one lament of almost anyone I know with school age kids. There is a constant challenge to allow the kids access to activities, but to also find a pace of life that makes sense. The idea of fasting from busy schedules is partly acknowledging that the pace of modern life is likely going to continue on its current trajectory.
There simply have to be seasons of relief, whether its taking a break from a particular sport or even a parent stepping back from a hobby to allow for some relaxing evening time. I see this one playing out similar to an elimination diet. If a family cuts back a certain amount for a month, they may find that other maladies have reduced as well. Bickering and stress may drop and it could gives signs that a bigger change is needed.
This is something that is also very unique to each family. My family goes at a slower pace and I know friends who would be bored in our rhythms, but I am also pretty sure that there are a lot of folks out there what would benefit from throttling down for a few weeks at a time to refresh.
Fasting from Spending
This is a personal finance blog and so the money had to come up eventually. This particular fast can go a couple different ways. This could be a period of really tightening the budget to a bare minimum in order to save for something special or to do a full budget reset. Another approach is to simply drop the budget down a bit to create some margin or to fight against lifestyle creep.
The value here isn’t in being hardcore, but in breaking out of the natural progression of spending more without even noticing. This is huge for folks in their 30s or 40s who are finally getting some financial margin. That margin can be swallowed up by a nice car or by simply losing the diligence that might have existed when things were tighter.
This is the #1 challenge for my family now. I want to help my kids foster gratefulness for what we have and to enjoy the simpler things in life, but we are under constant assault from consumption. That is why we need to break the pattern once in a while for some sort of reset.
Working for a Fuller Life
The point of these four fasts is to break away from patterns that naturally develop in the fast pace of modern life. I hope that this post spawns some thoughts for folks who are just working to fight for a full, healthy life. Often the best ideas aren’t very hardcore, but something that tweaks our trajectory in a positive direction.
Investing for retirement is crucial for everyone, but for those who are self-employed, it can present unique challenges and opportunities. Are you navigating the waters of self-employment? If your answer is a big yes, you likely cherish the freedom it affirms but may also feel the weight of responsibility that comes with planning for your future.
This blog post guides you through the complexities of retirement plans for self-employed professionals like yourself, covering potential challenges, available options, and actionable planning tips. Let’s dive in!
Challenges of Self-Employed Retirement
Unlike traditional employees, you don’t have an employer-sponsored retirement plan to rely on, which means it’s up to you to create a secure financial future. The journey may seem daunting, but with thoughtful planning and proactive management, you can turn the following challenges into stepping stones toward a comfortable retirement.
Unpredictable Income
When it comes to retirement, the inconsistent flow of income self-employed people receive is one of the biggest obstacles. It may be challenging to consistently save for retirement because of this erratic cash flow.
No Employer Matching
Matching contributions are a common feature of employer-sponsored retirement plans in traditional employment settings, offering a significant “free money” incentive to save. You lose out on these advantages as a self-employed person, which can be crucial in increasing your retirement savings.
Self-Control
You are in charge of your finances when you work for yourself. You need to be super disciplined to put saving first, even during hard times. It can be difficult to find the extra push of dedication required to contribute to retirement consistently.
Business Outlays
It can be challenging for self-employed people to discern between their personal and business finances. Thus, you might often find it tricky to strike a balance between the need to safeguard your long-term financial future and essential business expenses.
6 Best Retirement Investment Options for the Self-employed
Despite these challenges, there’s a silver lining – You have several excellent retirement investment options at your disposal. Understanding your choices is an essential step in planning for your future.
Traditional IRA
A Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) allows you to make tax-deductible contributions—up to $7,000 per year (or $8,000 if you are over 50) in the year 2024. Your investments grow tax-deferred until withdrawal, typically during retirement when those distributions can be taxed as ordinary income.
Self-Directed IRA
A Self-Directed IRA gives you more investment options beyond stocks and bonds, including real estate, precious metals, and other alternative investments. While it offers greater flexibility, it also requires a solid understanding of the complex tax rules to avoid costly mistakes.
Roth IRA
A Roth IRA allows contributions that are made with after-tax dollars, meaning withdrawals are tax-free in retirement. This option is one of the best retirement plans for self-employed individuals, especially if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket when you retire. The contributions in a Roth IRA are capped at the same limits as a Traditional IRA.
Solo 401(k)
If you are self-employed and have no employees (other than your spouse), a Solo 401(k) can be an excellent retirement savings vehicle. You can contribute as both the employee and the employer, allowing you to save up to $70,000 in 2025 (or $77,500 if you are over 50) in the year 2025. This plan enables significant retirement savings in one account.
SEP IRA
A Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA allows self-employed individuals to contribute a higher maximum amount compared to traditional IRAs. You can contribute 25% of your income, up to $70,000 in a year (2025). This makes it an attractive option if you have a fluctuating income year that allows for high contributions.
SIMPLE IRA
A Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE) IRA is ideal for businesses with fewer than 100 employees. You can contribute a certain percentage of your salary that is up to $16500 if you are under 50 and $23000 if you are over 50 ( Year 2025). Additionally, if you offer matching contributions, it can be an attractive perk for your employees.
Effective Retirement Planning Tips for Self-employed Individuals
It’s essential to take a proactive approach to ensure your golden years are as bright as they can be. Take the following suggestions seriously!
Determine Your Requirements for Retirement
Determine what retirement means to you first. Estimate your expenses and the number of years you anticipate living in retirement to allow for error. Financial advisers typically advise aiming for 70% to 90% of your pre-retirement income each year as a general estimate.
Make a Budget and Monitor Your Spending
Make a budget that accounts for both your personal and corporate spending. Set aside a certain portion of your income for retirement. You can find places where you can make savings and free up money for your retirement by using a sound budgeting technique.
Select the Appropriate Retirement Plan or Plans
Various retirement plans are appropriate for multiple self-employment scenarios. When choosing which kind of retirement account to start, consider your income level and your future growth goals. If necessary, seek advice from a financial professional to be sure you are selecting the right course of action.
Automate Your Savings
The best way to make retirement plans work for self-employed professionals is to automate savings. Your savings decisions are eliminated by automation, which makes it simpler to make regular contributions regardless of how your income changes. Thus, every time you receive a pay cheque, set up automatic transfers to your retirement accounts.
Invest Sensibly
In order to reduce risk in your retirement assets, diversification is crucial. Consider a variety of asset types depending on your investing time horizon and risk tolerance rather than depending only on equities or bonds. Keep in mind that investing is about protecting what you already have, not only about growing.
Review and Modify Frequently
Make it a point to go over your financial plan and retirement account statements at least once a year. If your circumstances or the state of the market change, make adjustments to your contributions or investing plan.
Think About the Tax Repercussions
Tax preparation is crucial for independent contractors. Choosing tax-advantaged accounts, comprehending deductions, and planning for the tax ramifications of your retirement withdrawals are a few possible strategies. Collaborate with a tax expert to make sure you are saving as much as possible.
Retirement plans for self-employed professionals come with their fair share of challenges. However, by understanding the various retirement investment options available and implementing effective planning strategies, you can secure your financial future.
Whether it’s through a Traditional IRA, a Roth IRA, or a Solo 401(k), the key is taking consistent, informed action. As you plot your path toward retirement, remember: it’s never too early or too late to begin saving!
Author Bio
Donnell Stidhum is a devoted Retirement Income Strategist and an expert in self directed 401(k)s and IRAs, guiding clients on their journey to financial freedom and a secure retirement. He educates clients on how to invest in real estate for retirement income. His unwavering passion for helping individuals and families build generational wealth drives him to deliver exceptional service, tailored solutions, and valuable education to every client he works with.
We don’t usually think of it this way, but investing in SEO could be a great way to earn more money. But why?
It’s all to do with the way it supports your online business or blog. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it, and it keeps delivering dividends over time, unlike conventional ads.
But how, specifically, could investing in SEO help you? That’s the topic we explore here. So, let’s take a look, shall we?
It Makes You More Competitive
First, SEO makes you more competitive, at least when it comes to vying for attention online. You’re much more likely to get seen on Google (or Maps if you have a business), allowing you to win customers just because you’re available.
Competitors who don’t invest in SEO will slowly begin to lose market share to you over time. After about a year or so, the effect can be substantial, and you can often see your results exploding.
It Provides Measurable ROI
Next, SEO is something that provides a measurable return on investment (ROI). Because of the way digital marketing methods work, you can see where money flows and how it’s distributed. As such, you can always justify the expense, provided the return is positive.
It Improves The User Experience
SEO also improves the user experience. As Toni Marino SEO Consultancy explains, it’s all to do with the way it adjusts your pages and makes them snappier. Google and other search engines love it when users have a better experience on websites they recommend because it makes them more likely to use their platforms in the future. SEO helps this process while also making your site easier to use, which is good for your brand, too.
It Builds Brand Authority
At the same time, investing in SEO is an excellent way to build brand authority. Companies that get it right will often see people viewing them in a different light, just by being at the top of Google search results.
Ranking well consistently for relevant keywords is trust-building, especially when combined with decent public reviews. This combination provides a kind of social proof that you’re on the right track and that many people are already benefiting from what you do.
It Increases Organic Traffic
SEO, naturally, also increases organic traffic, which, again, could make you more money. The more people who are blowing up your site, the better it is for business.
Gaining traffic via paid ads on social media is challenging. But if you can rank near the top of Google for organic approaches, then that’s even better and puts you in the top tier of companies in your industry.
It Reduces PPC Reliance
Finally, SEO saves you money long term by reducing PPC reliance. Pay-per-click ads can be very expensive for many small firms, making them almost unaffordable for most, which is why SEO is so popular. Once you have a proper SEO system in place, it’s often possible to eliminate ads for specific keywords entirely.