#it's not just a slogan. it's also how you become more tasteful and overall more interesting.

[tacotuesdaygirl]

Streetwear T-Shirts How to Make a Statement with Your Style

Welcome to Streetwear T-Shirts How to Make a Statement with Your Style." In today’s fashion landscape, streetwear has become a powerful form of self-expression, and nothing embodies this trend quite like the humble t-shirt. Streetwear t-shirts are more than just clothing; they are a canvas for personal style, cultural commentary, and bold statements. Whether you’re drawn to graphic prints, unique designs, or iconic logos, these t-shirts offer endless ways to showcase your individuality. In this guide, we'll explore how to choose the right streetwear t-shirt, style it to perfection, and make a lasting impression with your wardrobe.

Choosing the Right Design Making Your Streetwear T- Shirts  Stand Out

When it comes to streetwear T shirts the design is paramount to making a statement. Opt for bold graphics, unique artwork, or striking slogans that reflect your personality or the message you want to convey. High-quality prints and innovative designs can set you apart from the crowd. Whether you prefer minimalist aesthetics or elaborate patterns, the key is to select designs that resonate with your personal style and make a lasting impression. Your choice of design not only defines your look but also communicates your individualism and trendsetting attitude.

Selecting the Perfect Fit Comfort Meets Style Streetwear T-Shirts

The fit of your streetwear T-shirts plays a crucial role in achieving a statement look. A well-fitted T-shirt enhances your silhouette and boosts confidence. Streetwear often embraces oversized or relaxed fits, but the choice should align with your comfort and style preferences. Consider experimenting with different fits to find what compliments your body shape and personal taste. A T-shirt that fits well not only looks great but also ensures comfort throughout the day, balancing style with practicality.

Layering for Impact Combining Streetwear T-Shirts with Other Pieces

Layering is an essential technique in streetwear T-Shirts fashion.Pair your T-shirt with jackets, hoodies, or vests to create a dynamic and eye-catching outfit. The right layering can add depth and dimension to your look, making your T-shirt the centrepiece of a stylish ensemble. Experiment with different layers to see how your T-shirt interacts with other pieces, such as distressed jeans or trendy sneakers, to craft a cohesive and impactful streetwear outfit.

Color Coordination Making Your Streetwear T-Shirts Pop

Color plays a significant role in streetwear T-shirts fashion. To make a statement, choose T-shirts with vibrant or contrasting colours that stand out. Whether you opt for a single bold hue or a combination of eye-catching shades, the colour of your T-shirt should complement the rest of your outfit. Pay attention to how different colours work together and how they enhance your overall look. The right colour coordination can elevate your T-shirt from a simple piece to a focal point of your streetwear style.

Personalising Your T Shirts Adding Unique Touches Streetwear T-Shirts

Personalization is a powerful way to make your streetwear T-shirts truly your own. Consider customising your T-shirt with patches, embroidery, or DIY modifications to add a unique flair. Personalised elements can range from initials and custom artwork to quirky designs that reflect your interests. By adding these unique touches, you transform a standard T-shirt into a one-of-a-kind statement piece that showcases your creativity and individuality.

Accessorising with Confidence Enhancing Your Streetwear T-Shirts Look

Accessories are a key component of streetwear t-shirts fashion, and they can significantly enhance your T-shirt look. Pair your T-shirt with statement jewellery, hats, or sunglasses to add an extra layer of style. Accessories should complement your T-shirt without overwhelming it. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your outfit. By thoughtfully accessorising, you can elevate your T-shirt and create a fashion-forward look that makes a memorable impression.

Seasonal Styling Adapting Your Streetwear T-Shirts for Different Weather

Streetwear T-shirts can be styled year-round by adapting them to different seasons. In warmer weather, opt for lightweight fabrics and pair your T-shirt with shorts or casual trousers. In cooler months, layer your T-shirt under sweaters, hoodies, or jackets to stay warm while maintaining style. Seasonal adaptations ensure that your T-shirt remains a versatile and fashionable choice throughout the year, allowing you to make a statement no matter the weather.

Conclusion

Streetwear t-shirts have transcended their humble beginnings to become a powerful symbol of cultural expression and individuality. Rooted in the urban landscapes of fashion-forward cities, these shirts have evolved into more than just clothing they are statements of personal style, identity, and affiliation. With their bold designs, unique graphics, and a blend of comfort and trendiness, streetwear t-shirts appeal to a diverse audience, resonating with those who value authenticity and creativity. As streetwear continues to evolve, these t-shirts will remain a staple, adapting to new influences while staying true to their roots in subculture and self-expression.

[adcreativelondon]

Crafting Delicious Identities: Food Packaging Design & Branding Agency

Welcome to the world where taste buds are tantalized, and hearts are won over with every delicious bite. In this realm of culinary delights, the art of food packaging design and branding reigns supreme. Join us as we delve into the captivating universe of crafting delicious identities that not only tempt our senses but also leave a lasting impression on consumers. Let's explore how innovative strategies and thoughtful designs can elevate your product to new heights in the competitive market of food branding agency.

Captivate Taste Buds and Hearts with Thoughtful Branding Strategies

Picture this: a beautifully designed package catches your eye on the grocery store shelf. Intrigued, you pick it up and are instantly drawn in by its vibrant colors and elegant typography. This is the power of thoughtful branding strategies at work – they captivate not only our taste buds but also our hearts. Branding goes beyond just logos and slogans; it's about creating an emotional connection with consumers. By crafting a unique brand story that resonates with your target audience, you can stand out in a sea of competitors. Whether it's through storytelling, visual elements, or interactive experiences, effective branding has the ability to leave a lasting impact on customers. Incorporating authenticity and transparency into your branding efforts can build trust and loyalty among consumers. When people feel connected to a brand on a deeper level, they are more likely to become repeat customers and advocates for your products. Thoughtful branding strategies have the potential to transform ordinary food products into beloved household staples that evoke nostalgia and joy with every purchase.

Unleashing the Power of Design in Food Branding and Packaging

When it comes to food branding and packaging, design plays a crucial role in capturing consumers' attention. Imagine walking down the aisle of a grocery store – what makes you stop and pick up a product? It's often the visual appeal that draws you in. Effective design can communicate the essence of your brand, evoke emotions, and create lasting impressions. From color schemes to typography choices, every element contributes to telling your brand story. Innovative packaging designs not only make your product stand out on shelves but also enhance the overall consumer experience. Think about how Apple revolutionized electronics with sleek and minimalist packaging that elevates their products. With thoughtful design strategies, you can unleash the power of visuals to engage customers, build brand loyalty, and ultimately drive sales. Food branding agencies specialize in crafting identities that resonate with consumers on a deeper level.

Elevate Your Product Appeal with Innovative Packaging Designs

In the competitive world of food creative agency London, standing out is key. By harnessing the power of creative and innovative packaging designs, you can elevate your product appeal and capture the hearts of consumers. Remember, your packaging is often the first point of contact between your brand and potential customers. Make it count by infusing creativity, uniqueness, and functionality into every aspect of your design. From eye-catching visuals to eco-friendly materials, there are endless possibilities to explore when it comes to crafting a delicious identity for your brand. So, whether you're launching a new product or revamping an existing one, investing in thoughtful packaging design can truly set you apart in the crowded marketplace. Let your creativity shine through and watch as your products not only captivate taste buds but also leave a lasting impression on consumers' hearts.

[bestiboowear]

Express Yourself: The Language of Printed T-Shirts in Men's and Women's Fashion

The Rise of Fashion-Forward Printed T-Shirts: A Look into the Trendiest Styles for Men and Women

The fashion industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in the popularity of printed t-shirts, making them an essential wardrobe staple for both men and women. This rise in demand can be attributed to the increasing desire for self-expression and individuality through clothing. Printed t-shirts offer a unique canvas for creativity, allowing wearers to showcase their personality, interests, and affiliations. For men, trendy printed t-shirts often feature bold graphic designs, abstract patterns, or iconic logos that make a statement.

These eye-catching prints add an instant dose of style to any outfit and can be paired effortlessly with jeans or shorts for a casual yet fashionable look. On the other hand, women's printed t-shirts embrace a broader spectrum of styles. From feminine floral prints to edgy typography or even pop culture references, there is something to suit every taste. These versatile tops can be dressed up with skirts or downplayed with jeans to create various fashion-forward ensembles.

Custom T-Shirts: How to Create Your Own Personalized and Unique Graphic Tee

Creating your own personalized and unique graphic tee is an exciting way to showcase your individual style and creativity. Custom t-shirts allow you to express yourself, whether it be through a clever phrase, a bold design, or even a cherished photograph. The process of designing your own printed t-shirt begins with selecting the perfect base color and fabric that suits your taste and preferences.

Next, you can unleash your imagination by brainstorming ideas for the graphic or text that will adorn your shirt. Consider incorporating elements that reflect your interests, hobbies, or even aspects of your personality. Once you have a clear vision in mind, bring it to life using design software or by collaborating with professional graphic designers. Remember to pay attention to font choices, color schemes, and overall composition to ensure a visually appealing result.

With custom t-shirts, the possibilities are endless – creating a wearable piece of art that truly reflects who you are has never been more accessible or enjoyable!

Printed T-Shirts for Women: Exploring the Latest Designs and Trends in Fashionable Tees

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, printed T-shirts have become a staple in every woman's wardrobe. These versatile garments not only offer comfort but also serve as a canvas for self-expression and style. From bold graphic prints to intricate illustrations, the latest designs cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Contemporary trends in printed T-shirts focus on empowering women through inspirational quotes, feminist symbols, or thought-provoking messages.

With an emphasis on sustainability, eco-friendly materials and nature-inspired motifs are gaining popularity among fashion-forward individuals. Designers are experimenting with various printing techniques like screen printing, digital printing, and even embroidery to create unique and eye-catching designs. Floral patterns, animal prints, tie-dye effects, and abstract art are just a few examples of the wide range of choices available.

From Runways to Streets: Embracing the Versatility of Printed T-Shirts in Modern Fashion

Gone are the days when printed t-shirts were solely associated with casual street wear. In recent years, these humble garments have transcended their humble origins and become a staple in high fashion as well. Designers and fashion houses from all corners of the globe have embraced the versatility of printed t-shirts, incorporating them into their runway collections and blurring the lines between high-end couture and everyday wear.

Printed t-shirts offer a canvas for self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their personality, interests, and beliefs through bold graphics and statement slogans. They effortlessly bridge the gap between comfort and style, offering endless possibilities for outfit combinations that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. From intricate floral patterns to abstract designs or iconic logos, printed t-shirts have become a means of artistic expression within modern fashion.

[mamun258]

Is it necessary to just refund?

Since the characteristics of each e-commerce platform are different, why do Taobao and JD.com still have to follow up and only refund?

Looking at the overall environment, the market has changed. Meng Qi, a senior practitioner in the retail industry, pointed out that initially HE Tuber Taobao attached great importance to merchants when dealing with the relationship between users and merchants, which was consistent with the slogan of "making it easy to do business anywhere in the world". As the market gradually becomes buyer-dominated, in order to increase users' trust in the platform, e-commerce platforms have developed a set of praise mechanisms and rated stores for users to filter. However, consumers' requirements are increasing, and this trick is now It’s no longer enough.

One fact is that Taobao and Pinduoduo no longer display all negative review entries. Instead, they filter negative reviews and display some tags (such as taste, appearance, etc.). If users want to read negative reviews, they can only browse through the comment areas one by one. Every review. And when more and more merchants use methods such as cash rebates for good reviews, many consumers are worried that they will not see the true evaluation of the products.

Negative review labels displayed on Taobao (left) and Pinduoduo (right)

This has also indirectly prompted e-commerce platforms to introduce more mechanisms to gain user trust, including enjoy now and pay later, get 10% off if you get a fake, return goods without reason within 7 days, and develop live streaming to bring goods, etc. The most extreme of these is "refund only". If you are not satisfied with the product after receiving it, you can directly apply for a refund.

From a competitive perspective, Taobao and JD.com have to copy Pinduoduo’s work.

In terms of user data, as early as the end of 2021, Pinduoduo’s number of active buyers for many years reached 869 million, which is closely matched with Alibaba’s 979 million Chinese market consumer data, and it is also much higher than JD.com’s 570 million active purchasing users at that time. .

Since then, the three e-commerce giants have stopped disclosing buyer data, but Taobao and JD.com have already felt the pressure. This pressure will further increase as Pinduoduo’s market value exceeds Alibaba at the end of November 2023. Alibaba and JD.com need to follow up on low-price strategies , after continuing to launch tens of billions of subsidies, we will make further changes to retain users.

Industry insiders analyzed to "Ding Jiao" that Taobao and JD.com are now following up on "refund only". The main purpose is to show a "user-biased" attitude, but it is difficult to judge how strong the implementation will be.

Meng Qi is not optimistic about Taobao and JD.com's follow-up and only refunds, believing that the promotional significance is greater than the actual significance.

His analysis of "Fixed Focus" shows that each company's advantage categories are different. Pinduoduo has many white-label merchants and relatively low merchant access thresholds. The merchant ecosystem needs strong supervision. "Refund only" is ostensibly to protect consumers. , in fact, it is also one of the main ways for the platform to manage merchants and put pressure on merchants. The more mature Taobao and JD.com have stricter control over all aspects of merchants, and the user acquisition time is longer, so the probability of requiring a refund is lower.

At the same time, a question worth discussing is, is a refund just necessary?

For products with different unit prices and categories, users have different attitudes toward refunds. Meng Qi gave an example. Pinduoduo mostly sells products with low unit prices, and "refund only" can make users feel that they "don't care." However, it is not a hasty decision for users to buy things at high unit prices on Taobao and JD.com. Although the amount of a refund is compensated, it does not achieve the purpose of the consumer's purchase and also increases the user's time cost. . If users still do not buy what they want after screening, they may move to other platforms. This can lead to user churn.

In addition, most users of Taobao and JD.com do not have the habit of "refund only". Meng Qi believes that following the refund-only strategy now may affect the minds of users of the platform who originally had "high prices, high quality" and "high threshold for merchants".

Some consumers are worried that the starting point of refund-only is a good one. The platform hopes to force merchants to improve product quality and service levels, but it does not rule out that merchants will pass on the cost of refund-only, leading to an increase in commodity prices.

"Merchant will consider the return situation and increase the price when calculating costs and sales pricing. In addition, if there are wool gangs who use refund only to harvest wool, consumers will not only not benefit in the end, but may also have to pay for the wool gang's actions. " Yu Bai say.

3. Only refund, who wins?

How do merchants feel after the e-commerce collective implements "refund only"?

Regarding the "refund only" rules updated by Taobao and JD.com, brand merchants and small and medium-sized merchants (Taobao C-stores and JD.com POP merchants) have mixed feelings.

At present, only refunds are available. Those who are more affected are some small and medium-sized merchants, and there are very few brand merchants, because the brand's product warehousing system, service system, legal consultant, etc. have been relatively complete and standardized.

The CEO of a maternal and infant brand told "Ding Jiao" that his brand has stores on JD.com and Taobao and has not been affected in a short period of time. Whether it will be affected on a large scale in the future depends on the minds of consumers on the platform. " After-sales pressure will definitely increase, but it mainly depends on how the platform determines penalties. The customer service of large platforms can be relatively fair and just in handling such disputes."

However, some small and medium-sized merchants on Taobao said that they have recently encountered professional wool gangs who come to collect wool.

Xiaoxue told "Ding Jiao" that she previously had 3C digital stores in Pinduoduo and Douyin. In the fourth quarter of 2023, she opened a new Taobao store. After Taobao revised the refund-only rule, the store encountered seven or eight cases in the past two days. The situation of shearing wool. On social platforms, some Taobao merchants who have been operating for many years told her that they had the same experience.

Xiaoxue said that she was already a little skeptical before shipping because it was unusual for a new store to have so many orders pouring in at once. However, she thought it might be because the platform had a good ecology and the addresses left by customers belonged to different regions, so she shipped the goods. goods. Unexpectedly, after customers received the goods, they made batch complaints and refunds at almost the same time. Because it was a new store and a new link, the weight was very low. The platform judged that the link was risky and removed it from the shelves, and the customer agreed. Only refund.

Subsequently, Xiaoxue appealed to the platform, but the processing process took at least three days, and "it may not all be passed." She believes that in this process, merchants will face a lot of intangible losses. "Even if they return all the goods, our express fees, lost time, link removal, store level decline, etc., the combined losses are far greater than what can be lost." Get your principal back.”

Many merchants said to "Ding Jiao" that on the one hand, all platforms are now competing for low prices. Whoever sells at a lower price will get more traffic. In addition, various deductions on the platform and increasingly expensive The profits of merchants have been squeezed due to the investment fees, and now they have to bear the costs of refunds, which is very stressful; on the other hand, they are worried that the wool party will disrupt the market order, and merchants will have to increase the price of goods to make up for the losses. , refunds alone may not necessarily achieve a win-win situation for the industry.

Xiaoxue believes that after only refunding, opportunistic merchants may become more aggressive, and buyers who want to buy a good-quality product may have to pay a higher time cost. "Anything sold normally may be refunded, but unscrupulous merchants may choose to mix genuine products with fake products to control profits."

Only refunds have become the standard in the e-commerce industry, but in the short term, the interest gap between platforms, merchants and consumers will still exist. Meng Qi believes that the current stage is a buyer's market, and the most fundamental purpose of the platform is to facilitate more transactions and obtain more profits and service fees. In order to achieve this goal, it complies with the market rules. However, in the actual operation process, how to prevent unscrupulous buyers from plundering wool, accurately determine various refund-only situations, and balance the interests of buyers and sellers in addition to ensuring the fairness of refund-only, the platform still needs further exploration. , currently it relies more on the consciousness of users and businesses.

Industry insiders said that refunds alone reflect the anxiety of Taobao and JD.com, which has reached a critical value.

The essence of retail is to provide users with better products at lower prices and better services. At least for now, relying on "refund only" may not necessarily achieve this goal. A question that Taobao and JD.com need to think about is, is the problem with the platform just that there is no "refund only"? Is "refund only" really a snake oil?

* At the request of the interviewees, Yubai, Shujun, Ma Ke and Xiaoxue are pseudonyms in the article.

Author: Su Qi, Editor: Jin Yufan

Source public account: Dingjiao (ID: dingjiaoone), profound impact on innovation.

This article is published with the permission of Renren is a product manager cooperative media@dingjiaoone. Reprinting without permission is prohibited.

The title image is from Unsplash and is licensed under CC0.

The opinions in this article represent only the author's own. The Renren Product Manager platform only provides information storage space services.

[lavalampbulb]

Washed T-Shirts for Men: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Style

The fashion landscape for men has evolved significantly over the years, with a growing emphasis on comfort and style. Among the many clothing items that have gained prominence, washed t-shirts for men have emerged as a quintessential wardrobe staple. These shirts seamlessly blend comfort and style, making them a favorite among fashion-conscious individuals.

In this article, we will delve into the world of vintage washed tshirt  for men, exploring their history, characteristics, styling tips, and why they have become a must-have item in every man's closet. We'll also discuss the various types of washed t-shirts and how they cater to different tastes and occasions.

A Brief History of the Washed T-Shirt

The concept of the washed t-shirt is rooted in the timeless appeal of vintage and distressed clothing. The technique of washing t-shirts to achieve a worn-in, soft feel and a faded, vintage look traces its origins back to the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

During this period, t-shirts became more than just a basic undergarment; they became a canvas for self-expression. The tie-dye and acid wash techniques gained popularity, giving birth to the distinctive, washed-out appearance we associate with vintage t-shirts today. These early  mens vintage wash t shirt  were often adorned with graphic prints and slogans that reflected the spirit of the era.

As time passed, the appeal of vintage-washed t-shirts never faded. They continued to be embraced by musicians, artists, and fashion-forward individuals, and eventually became an integral part of mainstream fashion.

Characteristics of Washed T-Shirts for Men

What sets washed t-shirts apart from their traditional counterparts? It's all in the details:

Soft and Comfortable: Washed t-shirts are known for their exceptionally soft and comfortable feel. The process of washing and sometimes distressing the fabric creates a worn-in texture, making them feel like old favorites right from the first wear.

Vintage Look: These shirts often sport a faded appearance, with colors that have mellowed over time. This vintage look adds a touch of nostalgia to your outfit.

Unique Patterns and Prints: Washed t-shirts often come with unique patterns, distressed graphics, and faded prints that give them a distinctive, one-of-a-kind character.

Relaxed Fit: The fit of a washed t-shirt is typically more relaxed, contributing to the overall comfort. It's the kind of shirt you can throw on without worrying about it being too tight or constricting.

Easy to Style: The versatile and laid-back nature of washed t-shirts makes them easy to style with a variety of clothing items. They pair well with jeans, shorts, and even blazers, offering a relaxed yet put-together look.

Ageless Appeal: Regardless of your age, washed t-shirts have an ageless appeal. They can be worn by teenagers and mature individuals alike, bridging generational style gaps.

Styling Tips for Washed T-Shirts

Now that we've discussed the unique characteristics of  washed vintage tees, let's dive into some practical styling tips for men:

Casual Cool: For a laid-back, casual look, pair your washed t-shirt with distressed jeans and sneakers. Add a cap or beanie to complete the effortlessly cool ensemble.

Layer It Up: Layering is a key trend in men's fashion. Wear your washed t-shirt under a lightweight cardigan, denim jacket, or even a tailored blazer for a stylish, multi-dimensional look.

Smart-Casual Sophistication: To achieve a smart-casual look, combine a washed t-shirt with well-fitted chinos and loafers. Tuck the shirt in for a more polished appearance.

Accessories Matter: Elevate your outfit with the right accessories. A leather belt, wristwatch, or a simple pendant necklace can enhance the overall look without overshadowing the t-shirt.

Shorts and Sandals: In warmer weather, opt for shorts and sandals. A washed t-shirt can help you stay comfortable while looking fashionable during summer outings.

Simplicity Wins: Sometimes, less is more. Don't be afraid to wear a washed t-shirt with classic blue jeans and white sneakers. This timeless combination is a winner in any situation.

Layered Neutrals: Experiment with layered neutrals for a minimalistic aesthetic. Combine a washed white t-shirt with light gray or beige pants for a clean, sophisticated look.

Types of Washed T-Shirts for Men

Washed t-shirts come in a variety of styles, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and the occasion:

Vintage Washed T-Shirts: These are the classic, time-worn t-shirts with a faded, vintage appearance. They often feature graphic prints or slogans for an added dose of nostalgia.

Garment-Dyed T-Shirts: Garment-dyed t-shirts are known for their rich, muted colors. The fabric is dyed after the shirt is constructed, giving it a unique, slightly washed-out appearance.

Mineral-Washed T-Shirts: Mineral-washed t-shirts are treated with a special solution that creates a distressed look, similar to the natural aging process of fabric. This process results in a unique texture and faded coloring.

Acid Wash T-Shirts: Acid wash t-shirts are characterized by a mottled, marbled appearance created by using acid to bleach the fabric. They have a distinct retro vibe and are often favored for their bold look.

Pigment-Dyed T-Shirts: Pigment-dyed t-shirts are dyed with natural pigments that create soft, muted colors. They have a vintage, sun-faded look and are known for their comfortable feel.

Why Every Man Needs Washed T-Shirts

There are several compelling reasons why washed t-shirts have become a must-have item in every man's wardrobe:

Comfortable All-Day Wear: The soft, comfortable feel of washed t-shirts makes them perfect for all-day wear. Whether you're running errands, hanging out with friends, or relaxing at home, these shirts offer maximum comfort.

Versatile Styling: Their versatile nature allows you to dress them up or down, depending on the occasion. From casual outings to semi-formal events, washed t-shirts can adapt to your style needs.

Unique Personal Style: Washed t-shirts often feature unique patterns and prints that reflect your style and interests. They are a fantastic way to express yourself through clothing.

Timeless Appeal: The vintage and distressed look of washed t-shirts ensures they always stay in style. They are a timeless addition to your wardrobe that you can rely on for years to come.

Quality and Durability: High-quality washed t-shirts are made to withstand regular wear and washing. They are durable, which means you can enjoy them for a long time.

Feel-Good Factor: The comfortable, relaxed fit and soft texture of these shirts provide a feel-good factor that boosts your confidence and well-being.

 Conclusion : 

washed t-shirts for men offer the perfect blend of comfort and style. They encapsulate the essence of relaxed fashion while allowing you to express your individuality. Whether you're going for a casual, everyday look or dressing up for a special occasion.

So, why limit yourself to a monochromatic world when you can embrace the vibrancy and diversity of multi-colored hoodies? These garments have redefined fashion by allowing individuals to express their unique style, creativity, and personality. It's time to step out of your comfort zone, explore the world of multi-colored hoodies, and elevate your look with a burst of color and character.

[britneyshakespeare]

what does it look like i’m doing? i’m decolonizing my bookshelf!

[jostepherjoestar]

Do the Stardust Crusaders prefer an adorable or sexy s/o?(not poly, like what does each member prefer? also i hope this made sense)

Stardust Crusaders and their preferences HC’s

suggestive // gn reader

So this one made me think a little since in my opinion your fave will ALWAYS like you no matter what! So instead of only going by “adorable or sexy” let’s widen it up and delve a bit deeper into their preferences personality wise and style wise :D (ofc u will always be their favourite dw 😌) Kakyoin and Jotaro are kept sfw!! 💖✨

Avdol

Avdol is such a kind and understanding soul but still never afraid to voice his opinion in an earnest manner. He’ll appreciate that sentiment in his partners too, open to many ideas and understanding others’ way of thinking.

He does enjoy someone who’s a bit rowdy or playful to help bring out that side in him. Being silly together and just overall heightening the playful atmosphere really puts him at ease.

That’s the exact reason he secretly loves a little bit of chaos around him. Avdol himself is calm and determined but drama and unexpected events always seem to follow him. Don’t worry though, he loves being able to stride in and show off his abilities he’s so proud of!  

Be sure to work on your debate skills though, the man is a whole library of knowledge and if you end up in a discussion he needs you to be able to offer your substantiated opinion. If you talk him into a corner, be sure to soften the blow to his ego with lots of hugs and kisses afterwards 😌

Style-wise the man doesn’t have strong preferences. Earthy tones and a natural flare complement his own style very well though, so he loves a bit of a scholarly look as well. Show up in a long coat and cute glasses carrying some cool old books you’ve found and he might just swoop you off your feet hehe!

If you wear a minimalistic set in the bedroom- think dark burgundy, chocolate, burnt orange, he cannot take his eyes off of you. He’ll treat you like the absolute present you are while he unwraps you 😏  

Polnareff

Let this man spoil you for the love of all that is good!!!

He has SO much love to give and he will shower you by the bucketload so you better enjoy his antics! He thrives off of complementing you, albeit with the cheesiest lines, anything to see your cheeks flush. Also expect lots of cute gifts!!

If you’re a bit clumsy, get embarrassed easily and are a bit shy... Polnareff will never let you go, he’s so smitten by the way you stand behind him so often while meeting new people as he chatters away. He’ll pull out his best charming jokes to get you to laugh and when he sees how cute you are trying to hide your smile he’ll come smother you with kisses.

Loves it when you go along with his jokes and impulsive nature but prefers it if you’re a bit more responsible, the man struggles with self control so needs some guidance and someone to hold up the stop signs.

He will also look up to a more dominant person just as much, wanting to make sure he does everything to be on his best behaviour to please you. But he never looses that cheeky side and loves getting reprimanded for it. (not just in the bedroom, daily life as well) So make sure to keep that leash tight ;D!

Ok as much as I hate to say it... this man’s style tastes can be a bit tacky. If you like pink he’d love to see you in anything cutesy and frilly, perhaps to a worrying degree. Be sure to gently steer him to your own choices, he’ll forget all about his own ideas if you show a bit of skin anyways. This man is too easy to distract for his own good 🙄

Oldseph (forgive me Suzy Q 🙏)

Because he is the way he is *sigh*, he loves being yelled at for his antics. Joseph will never stop acting like a child no matter his age, that youthful sparkle always present even as he has started to take life a lot more serious.

Boss him around a little too much and he’ll pick you up just to smirk at you until you shut up. Eye-rolls are the dead give away that you like him and he’ll gladly accept them along with the annoyed sighs.

If you reside on the other side of the spectrum- playful and offering a childlike wonder too, he’ll take it all the way. Everyday is a silly playdate, joking around, showing off, any way to impress you and pull you along into the fun.

He LOVES vintage clothes, the fifties are his favourite era style wise and adores it when you dress the part. Joseph ain’t no chump so he’ll always offer to pay the deft fees of authentic vintage pieces. Hell, he’ll even fly you overseas if there happens to be a special item on sale that you’ve been eyeing.

Just like Polnareff, he loves to spoil you. Indulging your every need, even when you’re grumpy or mad at him. It’s his life’s goal to make those droopy corners shoot upwards with his dumb jokes and antics.

Stroll up in nothing but stockings and garters and he’s dead. Good job you killed the un-killable Joestar! But before his soul ascends the mortal plane he’ll ravish you, sure to buy you a new pair that’s even prettier.

Jotaro

As we all know this edgy dude doesn’t love loud annoying people. But here’s a secret he’ll never audibly let slip: if he sees you holding yourself back, trying not to be “too” much of anything he might not like... that next yare yare is him admitting he doesn’t mind it, as long as you don’t start yelling. He’ll actually enjoy your excitement, quietly of course, sure not to let others onto his amusement of your cuteness.

If you share his interests (marine biology, reading, nature in general) he’ll feel a bit more inclined to talk about them, just a smidge. Jotaro enjoys listening to you talk about your passions though, even if they differ from his. That intent stare taking in the way your eyes sparkle, that cute smile making butterflies flutter in his stomach.

Even though he loves going on walks, admiring nature and inhaling the fresh air, he is a secret homebody and would love it if you shared the sentiment. Lounging on the couch in comfy clothes, quietly enjoying each other’s presence while doing your own things, just basking in the shared space.

Since this is SDC Jotaro, he’s in the early stages of his love for showing off his accessories and he likes it when you do too. Just a couple of small hints at your likes through cute pins or a small chains.

He likes to be stylish but is by no means that into fashion, he knows what he likes and sticks to that. But if you’re a bit more of a fashionista he’ll share his opinions on louder outfits that attract a lot of attention. Just don’t take it too personal, he means well 😬

Likes you best in your comfortable pj’s, wrapped up like a cute burrito in a dolphin blanket 🥰

Kakyoin

As much as the jokes get made, if you’re the mom friend, he’s constantly trying to do right by you. A doting nature that still lets him be independent will make him go 🥰😍!!

Love and kindness towards others is so endearing to him, and if you’re not afraid to speak your mind openly, he might have to confess his love right this minute. He won’t be shy in letting his liking for you show either, offering charming jokes and compliments whenever you’re near.

And if you share his dry genZmemer humour, gently starting to drop hints that you’re not afraid to be a bit edgy you become his ultimate favourite person.

Because of his introverted nature, he likes someone who is a bit more independent as well, offering yourselves time and a comfortable pace to move in throughout the relationship.

He also greatly admires a strong need for justice and loyalty to a cause, it shows integrity and intelligence. That fiery passion in your eyes invigorates him just as much!

Kakyoin loves elegance and something that complements your features, no matter what style. He does have a bit of a thing for having matching colour palettes or at least ones that complement each other.

Cool gem tones are his favourite; emerald, ruby, sapphire...the list goes on.

At home though...get him a random shirt with a ridiculous slogan or phrase and he’ll wear it till it’s barely hanging on by a thread. Make him one too, a plain white shirt with a scribbly drawn frog or a meme-y phrase! He’ll wear it forever, being reminded of his love for you every time he laughs at the visual 😊

[koinodancesite]

“Chokkan 2 ~Nogashita Sakana Wa Ookizo!~”

Release date: Nov. 9, 2005

Oricon Weekly placement: 4th

B-side: “Koi Wa Hassou Do the Hustle!”

Members: Ai Takahashi, Asami Konno, Eri Kamei, Hitomi Yoshizawa, Koharu Kusumi, Mokoto Ogawa, Miki Fujimoto, Reina Tanaka, Risa Niigaki, Sayumi Michishige

Intuition becomes a keyword to the message behind “Chokkan 2 ~Nogashita Sakana Wa Ookizo!~” (“Intuition 2 ~The Fish You Let Go Is Huge!~”) but also the record’s actual backstory. The song was originally planned as the B-side of the equally hustle-and-bustle synth-funk “Koi Wa Hassou Do the Hustle!” as the main single, but Tsunku changed his mind and swapped the two last minute. The idols even finished making a music video for it (which you can watch here), only to get back to work and film another. That best explains why the finished product is edited together with concert footage.

Only Tsunku would know what inspired him to go with “Chokkan 2” rather than “Koi Wa Hassou,” though the former does have a hook that immediately gets ingrained to the listener’s memory. The silly ad lib of “soda!” (that’s right!) gets repeated partly to affirm the group’s advice about trusting your instinct when it comes to love, but the matsuri-like chanting works more to rile up a crowd in a live setting -- an experience the music video works well as proof.

While the foundations of the original “Chokkan” from those hooks as well as the high-energy Eurobeat-esque music remains intact, Tsunku rewrote a more coherent message in the lyrics. He discards some of the nonsensical parts in the first version -- “Love and dessert/ they occupy different places” -- for something with more logic while retaining his taste for the absurd: “Time is money/ I don’t have to tell you, right,” they remind of a cheesy yet true slogan to speak on how hesitation only wastes precious time.

The new lyrics for “Chokkan 2” overall reads like a personal code; a more confident scripture on how to act when you find love or when it’s no longer in your hands. Some advice featured in the chorus is easier said than done -- “instead of pushing and pulling/ you can just go on and be straightforward,” the idols sing as if they never felt nervous in their lives -- but the cheerful feel of the song leaves no room for doubt. Those incessant “soda! Mattaku sonotori!” (that’s right, exactly!) ad libs further convince and almost forces you via groupthink to take the message whole without questioning it.

“Chokkan 2” invests a lot of energy to distract from any thoughts that would cloud its message of just going with your gut. They have no one backing them up beside their own cheers of ad libs, and the rebuttals against any counterarguments are rather cliche responses: “the fish you let go is delicious/ there’s no way there’s going to be a next time,” they sing about potential regret. Like many Morning Musume singles that speak on love lost, “Chokkan 2” works as much time and energy you’re willing to put in to take its message to heart.

[5]

[littlemix-styleblog]

Requested Little Mix Inspired For  Ludovico Einaudi concert 

Jesy

PrettyLittleThing BLACK OVERSIZED SWEATER DRESS: £18. So out of all of the girls who go to concerts often everyday, every year Jesy is...No where to be seen. We don`t even know if she has been to one before which makes this job a little harder. But that doesn`t mean we can`t fufill your request and come up with a banging outfit. Thankfully this wasn`t too hard for us and we managed to scramble this ensemble together. So let`s start with the main piece of the outfit being this oversized black sweater dress from PrettyLittleThing. In case you have been living under a rock you would see and know that Jesy likes to wear oversized clothes. Now wearing oversized clothes shouldn`t be a nightmare to you, it`s a great alternative to a jacket or a coat. Shirt dresses have become popular over the last few years, You can dress them how you want, So you can dress it without support aka a belt, You can dress it with support either up or down or you could wear it for lounging around. We personally like it when it has support as when it`s just left hanging loose it could look like a tent on you and you would have no structure or stability. So if you`re looking for a good time with your friends this is your guy. What`s more is that it comes in a variety of colours.

I Saw It First Yellow D Ring Slogan Tape Belt: £4. So as I mentioned above a felt would help support the shirt dress and make it look more cute and stable. In case you have been sleeping your whole life you would know that the famous Off White yellow and black belt has become a worldwide hit recently with celebs and god knows who else wearing them. Even though the belt costs more then our lives, there is plenty of cheaper alternatives on the market and so we have found one right here from I Saw It First.

Buffalo Classic hi top chunky sole trainers in black: £166. Let`s make no mistake about it Jesy loves her Buffalo shoes, She has been seen wearing them a lot lately and I don`t think theres no stopping the girl wearing them. Even though they arent to everyone taste shoes like these have become a huge trend recently..The chunky, wide trainers have become a staple in many girls closets as we revist the 90s. However, if the price isnt to your taste then you could settle for a pair like these

PrettyLittleThing BLACK FLAT TOP BAKER BOY HAT: £10. If you wanted to accessorise the outfit or make it a bit more classic then why not add a baker boy hat. I would like to note these hats arent just for winter but they can be worn for summer too..So get some good use out of it. Do remember you can always take it off and you can still pull off a cute hairstyle underneath.

Topshop Black Striped Tube Socks: £3.50. For the oddest reason socks have also become a big trend again recently...Gone the days of having no socks or hiding your very own socks with your dogs face on them. Don`t be scared to get your socks out and have a little fun. If you`re like me and don`t like having bare feet in socks then socks are the way to go, They are also a great piece to accessorise your outfit with. I think we`re going for a sporty vibe with Jesy`s outfit here..Which we didn`t plan at all. If you didn`t like them then we have another alternative here 

PrettyLittleThing GOLD DRAGON PENDANT NECKLACE: £6. Probably wondering about this, But let me explain. So if you have been following Jesy`s fashion recently and watching EatingWithLittleMix you would know Jesy often wears necklaces and sometimes she wears a statement necklace. Now recently in episode 2 of Eating With Little Mix she was wearing this...Egyptian queen gold statement necklace, She likes bold, edgy necklaces. So we went on a mission to find a bold and edgy necklace and we ended up with a scorpion which we think could do just as well.

Perrie

MissGuided white seat belt buckle blazer mini dress: £40. Isnt this dress a beauty? Inspiration taken from a photo shoot when Perrie wore a purple asymmetric tux just like this one. These dresses have become so popular recently and do you know why? Yes it`s the seat belt and before you start no I do not know why seat belts have become so popular recently..You can find them on belts, dresses, skirts, tops, bags everywhere. I mean for a cheaper alternative you can always rip your dads seat belt out of his car and glue it onto your top, But I`m sure he won`t be very pleased with that. So it looks as though the seat belt trend won`t be going for a long time as I can well see this continuing into the festival season. Aside from the seat belt the dress altogether is a beauty, it`s asymmetric so it makes your legs look thinner. It`s in the style of a blazer or tux if you will giving it structure and stability. I wouldn`t mind snapping this one up for myself. 

MissGuided black pointed toe lace up barely there heels: £28. We couldn`t decide what shoes went with this dress so we went with them all so bare with me as we go along here. Heels, If you wanted to go for the classic, feminem look then heels are your answer..I chose lace up heels because I personally don`t like the look of bare feet or ankles, Lacing going up your leg gives it definition. You can also team these with black over the knee high boots making your legs look slim and sexy, Overall giving it a edgier and bolder look. Lastly, If you`re looking for some fun and want to promote your girl why not wear a pair of her Superga trainers?

PrettyLittleThing STERLING SILVER 100MM LARGE HOOP EARRINGS: £18. Perrie is very rarely seen without her classic gold hoops nowadays. With these earrings you can wear them if you wish, it`s your choice. We chose these sterling earrings from PrettyLittleThing. If you`re weary about the price the reason they are £18 is because they are sterling...Sterling costs a lot. They are also available in gold. 

ASOS DESIGN marble clutch bag with metal handle: £30. I hit the jackpot when I saw this. Searching for a similar bag to the Balenciaga tote she is often seen with I struggled until this beauty popped up on my screen and oh boy did I fangirl. I could`ve chosen this as a dupe for the Mango one she has but I decided not too..I dunno why. I was debating whether to include this one because it doesn`t look like a concert bag to me and it didn`t really go with the outfit but the more I think about it, the more it goes with the dress we suggested. This bag was too much to pass by and not show you guys. It`s marble effect with metal handle is just a purchase waiting to happen.

Jade

SHEIN Cross Back Scalloped Trim Bodycon Dress: $9. I think out of the girls Jade is probably the easiest when it comes to this sort of request. Jade is the type of girl that wears everything and anything and can make it look good. Jade has been seen over the years sporting bodycon dresses whether they are pink, black, red or any other colour. She seems to be embracing her figure more as she wears these on a daily basis nowadays. So we went for this one from Shein, Now it is important to note that due to Jade`s skin tone she shouldn`t be really wearing bright, vivid colours as it doesn`t suit her. Try and stick to more emerald tones like maroons, blacks and greens. We decided to go for this dress today because you can either wear it casually to a concert or out for dinner. Please read on to see what we have teamed this with.

Nike White Air Force 1 Hi Trainers: £90. Now do bare with us here...You either love these or loathe them, These Nike air force Hi top trainers are such a 90s staple popular among the basketball courts and now popular among the fashion elite. I have seen a lot of people wear these Nike hi tops lately with dresses and skirts, whether it`s casual or done up so this is nothing new...This is actually becoming a fast trend. I would understand why people wouldn`t like these as they come across as heavy and chunky and if you own a pair of Air Force trainers you would understand, So we have found another alternative pair for you and they come in the form of converse. These converse are another Hi top option but are less chunky and oversized and more light and fresh on your feet.

ASOS DESIGN ultimate leather look biker jacket: £35. Much like Leigh`s jacket this is a option (Yes, I am aware I`m doing this back to front) you can also choose this jacket if you don`t want to be cold. This jacket goes with the look we set out for you and we would like to officially name it the cowboy look.

River Island Black leather western block heel ankle boots: £75. We picked these boots as a alternative to the trainers in case you wasn`t feeling them and wanted to look a bit more classy. We chose these cowgirl boots for obvious reasons...Although the price may seem a little pricey do think of the investment you are making, Think of the wear you will be getting out of them and joy they could be bringing you.

ASOS Stradivarius studded western handbag in black: £10.50. How many times have I mentioned on this blog Jade loves a shoulder bag? Y`all should be familiar with her Prada, Guess, Versace and sugar cube by now. We picked this one up because it went with the cowgirl style we are opting for. So if you wanted a place to keep your pepper spray and chewing gum in case another cowgirl comes in and tries and steals your man then heres the answer.

PrettyLittleThing BASIC BLACK FEDORA HAT: £10. I absolutely love hats like this, I think they are so bold, cute, edgy and quirky. These hats are fab for festivals, concerts, casual..Cowgirl. I love hats like these with wavy long hair. I just think hats like this most of the time make the look which is why I include them in every inspired I do.

PrettyLittleThing BLACK MATTE THIN RETRO SUNGLASSES: £8. Finally, What`s a post without sunglasses like these? Jade loves retro sunglasses and I think she must have about ten million pairs hidden away in her little cave. Of course you don`t have to opt for these...Hundreds of styles and colours exist on sites such as PrettyLittleThing, MissGuided, Topshop and ASOS. You`re probably wondering what good will these be inside a concert? Well they won`t be, I`m adding these because they would be good as a unnecessary accessory.

Leigh

MissGuided white oversized denim jacket: £38. Summer is round the corner and you`re panic buying..You don`t know if this would look good for that festival or if that would look good on holiday. So we took a simple denim jacket whether it`s blue, black or white it works and teamed it with this outfit, A slight chill in the air or a raindrop and your night could be ruined because you didn`t bring a jacket, Did I mention this is so versatile...Rain proof, Cold proof, boy proof if you`re lucky. A denim jacket would go with anything and everything so make sure you get good use out of it whilst you can. We picked this jacket because our outfit is all black and we wanted to add a bit more colour and depth.

PrettyLittleThing JILL BLACK SLINKY BRALET: £10. Let`s be honest, When isnt Leigh wearing a bralet? Throughout the summer months she is seen wearing bralets non stop in a variety of colours and styles. This one is no different...This is simple but a classic, Can`t find anything to wear? That black bralet would do. When you want to throw some shapes you don`t want nothing clinging to you or making you feel uncomfortable, you would want to feel free and easy. This top comes in a variety of colours so if you fancy shaking things up.

PrettyLittleThing BLACK SUPER HIGH WAISTED WOVEN WIDE LEG TROUSER: £25. We next teamed the outfit up with these black high waisted flared leg trousers from PrettyLittleThing. Flare trousers are also another item from the 90s that has somehow wormed it`s way back into this decade and become a huge trend. A lot of people associate flares with nights out or for the beach, But realistically you can wear these for anything and everything...Which is why we put them into this post, We want people to have confidence and try something new. However, If you`re not ready to venture out yet then we have the perfect alternative for you in the form of skinny black jeans. Yes the classic black skinny jean that goes with anything..We found these ones from ASOS and these ripped ones. We made sure that either of the jeans fitted peoples specifications..So we made sure they werent tight or jeggings (No one likes jeggings), high waisted and compliments a womens figure. Either one goes with the bralet we have also chosen.

Puma Basket Classic White Trainers: £65. When you go to concerts you never estimate how long you would be standing for and at the end of the night you see girls carrying their shoes to the car as they walk the cold streets bare foot..Do you want to be that kind of girl? Of course not you want to be comfortable and have fun and not having misery or pain that heels bring. So we chose these one from Puma for £65..Leigh and Jade are big fans of Puma trainers so this is nothing new. However, If you wanted to invest in your shoes a little more then we have a great pair from Ted Baker here

Topshop Amour Layered Necklace: £7.25. So this is when we come to the part where it is totally up to you whether you want to add accessories either layering it up, or layering it down. We decided to include this necklace as it`s great for accessorising and covering a bare chest..Layered necklaces have become a big trend over the last few years and I hope to see them remain popular for the foreseeable future.

Topshop Rose Gold Flat Hoop Earrings: £5. Wouldn`t be a post without hoops, Leigh loves a hoop earring and it`s very rare that you see her without them so we had to includ them. We chose rose gold earrings because we know girls love the colour..They die for it, As I mentioned before rose gold is a very popular colour not just among jewellery but on phones, cosmetics, furniture, decor the list is endless. Every girl needs a little rose gold in their life.

A huge credit to our guest editor for this post.

This post contains a affiliated link, This means we make commission if a purchase is made through this link. You will not be charged any extra. We add these links to keep the blog running.

[talabib]

Be Happier!

When a friend or acquaintance asks you what you want, you might say “to be happy.” Who doesn’t want that?

But despite our deep-seated desire for happiness, most of us spend our time pursuing other things such as careers, money or love – even though these things are just shades of what might make us happy.

What if instead of pursuing these elusive goals, we focused on finding happiness directly?

This post explores how your mind and body work and how you can use these facts to find the true path to happiness. From pretending you’re a child to making sure both your nostrils aren’t clogged, you’ll learn practical ways to live a brighter, happier life.

We focus too much on the future, but we can train ourselves to remain in the present moment.

What were you thinking before you started reading this post? Perhaps you were mulling over plans for the upcoming weekend or worrying about a work deadline.

Spending time thinking about the future may make you feel as if you’re productive, but often the opposite is true.

Why? Focusing on the future reduces your attention in the present moment, making you more likely to miss significant things that are happening now. This lack of presence can cause problems with relationships at work and home. What’s more, constantly thinking about what’s to come can leave you less productive today and worse, emotionally drained.

Staying fully present in the moment will help you perform better at work and may even make your job more enjoyable. And forget about the belief that multitasking is efficient. It isn’t. In fact, performing multiple tasks makes you complete each task much less efficiently.

One study, for instance, monitored people having conversations while driving. Researchers found that activity in the section of the brain dedicated to driving was reduced by 37 percent while the driver was talking!

Other research shows that people feel much happier when they are 100-percent engaged in a task, even if the task is relatively boring.

So how can you stay present in every moment, whether minor or major? There’s no shortcut. Being present is a skill you need to practice.

The first step is to remove unnecessary distractions. Try decluttering your workspace; also, block access to websites you like to browse on your laptop and silence your mobile devices while you work.

The next step is to focus on tasks in small time increments. Setting a timer can be useful. When you carve out specific, limited amounts of time to complete tasks, you’ll find yourself enjoying each task more, and additionally, your sense of achievement will skyrocket.

Practicing meditation is another way to stay in the moment. By letting thoughts go, you’ll become calmer and more attentive to the world around you.

In addition to boosting productivity and happiness, meditation can have other surprising results. Some people who meditate say they experience a world that appears more vivid, with brighter colors and richer tastes!

Many of us live in a world fueled by constant stress, which is said to help us thrive. But it doesn’t!

Many people think stress is a necessary fuel to stoke certain behaviors, such as ambition or personal achievement. Let’s examine this assumption to see if it holds water.

There are two kinds of stress: the good, short-term kind and the bad, long-term kind.

Short-term stress sends adrenaline coursing through the body and often inspires better mental and physical performance. Consider the exhilaration an athlete might feel when people cheer, motivating him to perform at his best. Practicing and playing in a “real” game are different precisely for this reason.

Too much stress, however, can harm the body and eventually turn into chronic stress, which can lead to illness – and even cause stress in people around you.

Emotions, both good and bad, are contagious. They are transmitted through pheromones, or chemicals, that the body releases when we sweat. So when a coworker is anxious or afraid, that person’s stress is bringing everyone else down!

Not to worry, though. Long-term stress can be curbed through the body’s natural resilience. Think of an antelope that goes back to grazing just minutes after narrowly evading a predator. We too are gifted with the ability to calm ourselves – without it, we’d hardly be equipped to meet life’s challenges.

You’ve no doubt seen how a small child can bounce back from tears with laughter. This is a perfect example of the resilience of the human spirit.

But many people today have a weakened resilience to stressful situations. Consider how advertisers use stress to grab a buyer’s attention, promising beauty or an attractive companion if you buy a product. This scheme stresses you by reminding you that you might lack these things in your life.

The daily barrage of emails, social media updates and news further contributes to the modern human’s high levels of stress.

The best way to reduce stress is through the body, by learning how to breathe properly.

Have you ever been told to “just relax” when you’re stressed out? It probably didn’t feel very useful. Taking a bath or going for a walk, on the other hand, often helps to calm frayed nerves.

So what do these actions tell us about the nature of stress?

The bottom line is that we’ve been misled in how to deal with stress. Two common approaches are either talking ourselves out of stressful, upsetting situations or suppressing our emotions and pretending nothing’s wrong. Is it a surprise that neither “trick” really works?

Crucially, research shows that attempting to control or suppress a thought or feeling when you are stressed only makes the problem loom larger in your psyche. Suppression can lower self-esteem, increase negative emotions and worsen memory over the long term.

 Researchers at Stanford University found that people who regularly suppress negative emotions, for instance, generally experience more negative emotions overall than positive emotions.

So how do we tame stress in a healthy fashion? We now know that the best way to calm down is actually from the outside-in – in other words, through the body.

Think about the way you breathe when you’re anxious – you probably take shallow breaths. When you’re calm, however, you breathe deeply and steadily. Research supports this practice: by changing your breathing, you can change your emotions.

Experts have successfully used breathing techniques in work with war veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Deep breathing helps to normalize levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which increases emotional resilience.

You too can practice deep breathing exercises. Not only do these exercises make you calmer but they also they give you a boost of energy!

It may seem counterintuitive that being calmer can energize you, but it’s true! Let’s explore how you can change your breathing habits for the better.

Breathing techniques and slow-paced activities can help build resilience against stress.

The British wartime slogan, “Keep Calm and Carry On,” has become a popular quote on T-shirts, coffee mugs and other items in recent years. But how does one keep calm in reality?

This is where simple breathing exercises come into play. Doing so regularly helps you essentially rewire your nervous system.

Start by closing your eyes and taking slow, deep breaths for a few minutes every day. Pay close attention to your breath, noticing whether it is deep or shallow. Make sure to exercise deep, conscious breathing especially if you are angry or stressed.

Breathing in such a manner might make you feel self-conscious at first, but soon your practice will become a natural reflex that will help quiet your nerves!

Another effective technique is called alternate nostril breathing.You might be surprised to know that only one of your nostrils actually “does” the breathing on a daily basis. To experiment with alternate nostril breathing, try blocking the airflow of one nostril, pressing down on it with your hand. Then alternate, blocking the flow of the other nostril.

This exercise will increase the airflow through the less dominant nostril. By exercising your less active nostril, you’ll enable greater airflow through your nose. More air means easier, calmer breathing – and in turn, a calmer you.Try practicing alternate nostril breathing for a few minutes a day and see if you can feel a difference!

Of course, there are other exercises you can do to calm yourself: slow-paced activities such as long walks are helpful. In fact, any activity that slows you down, such as meditation, yoga or tai chi, is healthy for you. Long walks in nature have been shown to reduce anxiety, lighten the mood and even improve memory.

And if you ever needed an excuse to hug someone you love, here it is! Research has shown that physical contact with a loved one reduces stress, too.

Burnout happens when we worry too much, exhausting our minds and our nerves.

Have you ever felt “burnt out” from a job? In the working world, this has become a widespread phenomenon, and it is growing. What exactly causes burnout?

There are three main ways in which you can exhaust your mind.

The first is experiencing extreme emotional highs or lows. Such events can drain you both mentally and physically.

The second is trying to exercise self-control all the time. Doing so tires your mind, making you less likely to make sound decisions later on. Resisting the temptation of a breakfast donut in the morning, for example, can weaken your ability to say no to a bag of potato chips for dinner.

And finally, if you constantly worry (or worry about upcoming events that you feel will make you more worried), you can experience constant, often crippling, fatigue.

The solution to preserving your energy is to find something positive in each and every situation.

Doing things that make you feel good is simply good for you. One study found that when people watched a funny video or received a surprise present, they showed no fatigue and displayed more resilience in maintaining self-control.

Even a boring task can be enjoyable if you focus on why the task is worthwhile – maybe this chore is helping you save up for a vacation or is teaching you a new skill.

Staying positive and calm will also help you perform better in stressful situations.

A soldier was injured in a firefight. By using calming techniques, the soldier said he was able to give orders and carry out commands while injured that he otherwise couldn’t have if he was over excited or nervous.

Learn these three easy steps to becoming more creative by learning to make time for idleness.

How do you feel when you’re doing absolutely nothing? Do you feel bad, or guilty? Yet idleness might be just the medicine your body and soul needs.

Contrary to the popular belief that you have to be focused to come up with innovative ideas, not concentrating might be what you need to do.

In interviews, professionals across a number of fields have said that creativity is highly prized. To be creative, however, you have to let your mind wander – only then can you come up with novel solutions.

One study found that participants performed better on a difficult task after they stepped away from their desks and spent time daydreaming. If you’ve ever had a “eureka” moment while in the shower, you know that this is true!

But many people are so used to being overstimulated that it’s an uncomfortable feeling to let the mind just wander.

A study conducted at the University of Washington showed one extreme version of this inability to just be. Participants could sit and do nothing or give themselves electric shocks. Many participants – even those who said they’d pay to never experience an electric shock again – still chose to shock themselves, to do “something” instead of nothing.

So how do you combat an aversion to idleness? Ignite your creative idleness with three easy steps.

First, in between tasks that demand your full attention, perform mindless tasks that only require partial attention, like data entry. But don’t confuse mindless tasks with leisure tasks such as surfing Facebook or Twitter feeds, as these tasks actually hold your full attention.

Second, make time for play. Whether jumping up and down on a trampoline or playing hide and seek with your children, activities that aren’t goal-oriented allow your brain to change gears and in doing so, work to expand your thinking horizons.

And finally, allow for moments of silence. Instead of filling all your time watching, listening or reading, find a space in which your mind is allowed to be totally quiet – for instance, through meditation.

You’ll be more creative and successful overall if you spend more time doing nothing. Activities unrelated to your work are frequently the ones that can have the greatest positive influence on it.

It’s time to conquer the negativity bias. Less self-criticism, more self-compassion and self-love.

When a friend tries something new and fails, what do you do? It’s likely you choose not to criticize her or tell her to give up. Yet this is exactly what many of us do to ourselves.

Being your own worst critic can be good in small doses, but being too self-critical is counterproductive.

Rather than boosting motivation, constant self-criticism can lead to depression. Being tough on yourself makes you focus disproportionately on your negative attributes instead of on your positive ones.

Why are we so hard on ourselves? Researchers say being tough may have been a survival mechanism for early humans. Focusing on the negative probably helped our ancestors avoid dangers in the wild.

Today, however, this negativity bias isn’t helpful, as most mistakes don’t immediately mean you’re dinner for a hungry predator. Excessive self-criticism instead is crippling, making you afraid of failure, which in turn can lead to poorer performance overall – which becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Studies conducted with athletes found that a fear of failure was enough to make a star performer fail at critical moments despite years of rigorous training.

The answer to all these problems is to have more compassion for yourself.

Self-love and understanding will give you a healthier, more balanced view of your skills and the world around you. If you adopt a less critical perspective of yourself, you’ll be affected less by internal and external criticisms, and consequently become more resilient to daily stress.

Self-compassion will also make you more likely to take on challenges you think you may fail at – which is necessary for success.

Once you better understand your mistakes and failures, you’ll bounce back more easily from the lows, instead of letting your critical internal voice keep you down.

Expressing gratitude helps you focus on what you have instead of what you think you lack.

For many, Thanksgiving is a day of gratitude and gorging on traditional dishes. Roasted turkey and pumpkin pie aren’t bad in moderation, of course. But gratitude is a dish we should always eat more of.

Research shows that only around half the people in the United States regularly show gratitude to one another. As the benefits of showing gratitude are so overwhelming, it’s surprising we don’t express thanks more often. In fact, expressing gratitude is possibly the greatest act of self-compassion there is.

Gratitude helps us focus on what we have instead of what we lack, and thus makes us as people less materialistic and more positive-thinking. Showing gratitude regularly can even help you sleep better, simply because as you drift off, your positive thoughts will make you feel more peaceful.

Other simple steps to be kinder to yourself include repeating supportive phrases. Be your own cheerleader, and don’t forget that mistakes are a part of life.

Sure, “to err is human” – so remember that everybody has faced failure at some point. If you acknowledge this fact, it will help you approach your failures as a learning experience.

Writing is another way to become more self-compassionate. Start a journal and let your feelings flow onto the page.

You could even experiment by writing a letter to yourself, but write as if you were talking about a friend. Creating this distance between your feelings and thoughts may help you put life events into better perspective. You might also try writing down a daily list of achievements or things for which you are grateful.

Taking a pen to paper is a simple action that can have positive, long-term health effects. Recent studies have shown what writers have always known – that you can regulate emotions by writing about them.

Reap the many rewards that come from being kind to others instead of focusing on yourself.

Growing up, you may have been told that you need to look out for yourself before anyone else. How much truth does this instruction hold?

Focusing too much on yourself can have negative effects. It makes you a poorer judge of people, generally less liked by others and can even make you sick.

Looking out only for “number one” can also make you egotistical, a classic trait of narcissists. Such people are blinded by their egos, making them exaggerate their own abilities. While narcissists may feel superior, when they fail, as everyone must, it usually hits them harder than it would those who are humble.

The behavior of selfish people often makes them disliked by the crowd. Egotists are also less likely to form meaningful personal bonds, which can lead to health issues, such as depression.

The antidote to being self-absorbed is to look outward with a compassionate, open heart. Compassion means being sensitive to those around you and acknowledging the distress of others. Being empathetic is, in fact, hard-wired in human nature.

This might come as a surprise given the “dog-eat-dog” world we live in. But German researchers found that chimpanzees and young children, without knowledge of learned social practices, will go out of their way to help a companion in need.

Interestingly, being compassionate can also be good for business. A 2011 study from Michigan University that focused on compassion in the workplace found that showing compassion improved company performance levels and profit margins and increased employee happiness.

Curiously, those same employees were not only happier but also healthier. The same study found that compassionate individuals on average lived longer and were more resilient to stress.

Many of us are taught to look out for ourselves, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating; being kinder improves business success, relationship bonds, overall health and personal happiness.

The key to happiness is being present in the moment, eliminating stress and letting your creative juices flow freely. Self-care is important, but so is showing compassion for others. Only by being kind to ourselves and each other can we thrive both as individuals and as a society.

Action plan: Show you care with words.

When a friend appears to be distressed, verbally communicate that you see she might be hurting. Doing so shows you care about her feelings and gives her a chance to correct you, in the case that you’ve misread her emotions. Communicating with and caring for each other compassionately amid hard times helps to reduce stress for everyone involved.

[wgfmp2021]

The Greenery - label design - part 3

Above is the label design I ended up using on all of my bottles.

I focused on strong branding, the labels being bold and universal for all of The Greenery's clients. Most of our clientele is 15-19, however some of our products, such as Beautifier are targeted at people who are above that age range. Even though the products are mainly targeted at people within the age of 15-35, the labels have to attract everyone regardless of their age group.

1. The logo

The original logo is a combination mark that features a bottle and type. My initial idea was to use it on my labels, however, it would not be a good design move. In the visual identity manual it is stated that the minimum size of this logo is 25mm height and it is that way for a very simple reason - if the logo was any smaller, it would be very hard to read. In such situations, it is recommended to use the logotype instead of the combination mark. Since I cannot disobey the rules stated in the visual identity manual, I had to turn down that idea and use the logotype instead. This is when I came across another compilation - since the logotype is wide, there was plenty of empty space above it that needed to be filled somehow. I created a rainbow icon and placed it at the top, above the logotype. I also lowered the logo's position - the baseline is no longer in the same line as the frame, instead it is now slightly lowered. This manipulation has allowed me to keep the logotype as big and visible as possible without cluttering the design. The space from the top of the label to the top of the rainbow is equal to the space from the thick red line to the baseline of the logotype. This makes the whole design look very consistent and tidy.

2. Hierarchy, typography and layout

I believe that the use of hierarchy is very important in every design. While in most cases, it is easy to get away with only using one font, if it's a Sans Serif or Serif font, it is crucial to include a hierarchy of some sort - whether it is using different sizes or thickness - to highlight certain parts of the design and make it look clearer. Each part of the text in my label design was made using the same font with different thickness and size. Considering the logo only consists of typography, I also had to divide it from the rest of the label somehow and since I couldn't make it any bigger, I used a red stripe as a divider. Below are screenshot of a version without the use of hierarchy and the final design for comparison - it shows how details like these can change the design completely.

All of the labels have the same layout:

name of the smoothie

a short slogan

the flavour icon

ingredients

volume of the bottle - white on purple because of high contrast and saving as much space as possible

Using this type of layout makes the labels very logical for the customer and it's also another way to make the hierarchy very clear for everyone. If you look closely, you will notice that the distance between the name of the smoothie and the top line is not the same as the distance from the ingredients to the rainbow line - this choice, even though at first it might seem like it, was in fact a thought-out decision. Lowering the placement of the ingredients would make the distance between the text and the icon greater which would create more white space that I did not need. The bottom line is rainbow and, in most of my smoothies, the ingredient lists are wide. Placing them closer to each other would make the design look overcrowded at the bottom and empty at the top.

3. Colours and icons

I used 7 colours of the rainbow to symbolise each flavour. Each icon is in the same colour as the frame and one of the colours at the bottom of the label (for specific colour numbers, see The Greenery Visual Identity Manual). This, in my opinion, is a smart marketing move for two reasons.

1. Teenagers and LGBT Community. Pride Flag is in the colours of the rainbow and because of that, rainbows have become strongly associated with LGBT people. Today's generation of teenagers are very strongly opinionated, fight against inequality, homophobia, sexism and racism. A vast majority of teenagers, even the ones who aren't affected by mistreatment from the rest of society, would be happy to buy a drink with a pride flag on it. Another trend I have noticed amongst people born after the year 2000 is collecting drink cans - potentially, some people would want to have a collection of all The Greenery rainbow drink bottles and it could boost the sales.

2. Strong branding. One of the basic principles of my brand is inclusion. There are plenty of people who have hidden disabilities. Those people might struggle with concentration, differentiating colours or reading. Instead of just writing the name of the drink on the label or using fruit pictures, I used a colour code as well as icons that represent the names of the drinks. This way, if a client doesn't remember the name of the smoothie, they can easily describe it by explaining either the colour of the label, the icon that was on it or the taste of it. Most brands don't have all of these features which makes it harder to recognise the specific drinks. For example, they have 3 types of red smoothies in their offer, all of which have. raspberries in them. A customer will have a hard time trying to pick the right drink that they liked previously and end up buying a product from a different brand. A great example of this are Tropicana and Innocent Juice.

Tropicana's labels always feature a photograph of a fruit. I think that it's a very outdated approach to the design and it isn't appealing to the young people. They don't have specific drink names on the bottles. The most visible elements are their logo and the fruit that was used to produce the juice. They are not original in any way, they don't stand out and it's hard to differentiate one flavour from the other.

Innocent Juice do use a strong colour code, however all of their bottles look so similar that it's very easy to mistake them if a customer misreads the label. The flavours are also quite similar and the only difference is the type of drink a customer is buying. It's overall very confusing and not intuitive at all especially for people who, as I mentioned, might have disabilities of some sort or are in a hurry.

My labels came out very good and are strong design pieces that look good and are functional and practical at the same time. I didn't end up putting nutritional information on them because I didn't think it was necessary - all nutritional information can be found in The Greenery's mobile app or at The Greenery shops. Since it is a brand that produces fresh smoothies blended in front of the client at a shop (similar system to cafes such as Starbucks or Costa) and our products cannot be purchased directly from grocery stores, The Greenery shops can be treated as takeaway restaurants in which case it is not essential to put the nutritional information on the label.

[wesleybates]

How To Develop A Great Digital Brand With An Appealing Brand Voice

From your emails to social media captions, blog posts and infographics, how your brand’s voice comes across will either encourage or deter your users from interacting with your company again.

You may have had one of those terrible experiences where you call a customer service line and find a rather unpleasant person on the other end. Or maybe you were checking out of Whole Foods and the cashier was speaking to you with an attitude.

Either one of these scenarios would probably leave you with a bad taste in your mouth. And more so, it would deter you from wanting to return to that company because of that negative experience. That’s why a brand’s voice is so important.

Although in-person interactions like the two above are few and far between for eCommerce brands, how you speak to your customers and how your brand comes across via the internet matters!

This blog post will teach you the importance of a brand voice in the digital age and how to build a brand strategy to develop an appealing brand voice.

What Is a Brand Voice?

First and foremost, what is a brand’s voice?

A brand’s voice is how your brand is viewed and perceived by users through your content. It’s how your brand comes across when it communicates with your audience via the internet, print, and in some cases, in-person. But today, we’re strictly talking digital.

As an example of a brand voice, let’s take two fashion brands: Supreme and Nike. If both brands tweeted the words, “New line dropping tonight,” the way that Tweet would be perceived and internalized by users across the internet would be starkly different. Although both brands offer largely the same thing—clothing—that one Tweet has completely different implications for the brands and users alike.

For instance, Supreme has created a brand voice for itself that reads as exclusive and luxurious. Nike has created a brand voice for itself that is very much inclusive and accessible.

While both these brands simply offer clothing for consumers, how these brands are perceived are extremely different?

Through their content.

Each piece of their content, whether it be an email newsletter, a social media page or even the copy on their website, goes into their brand voice. In fact, this kind of branding pays off, as content marketing efforts receive 3x the leads per dollar spent over a paid search.

If this kind of branding seems too far out of your reach, consider looking into a digital marketing agency such as Aumcore that offers brand identity services so you can take your company to the next level.

Unique Brand Examples and Influencer Comments

In order to better understand how to develop a great digital brand, let’s take a look at some companies who are currently killing it with their digital branding.

These brand voice examples will show you how to develop a flexible brand voice that will cater to your specific audience’s needs.

Zola

Zola is an online wedding registry, planner and retailer. Their digital branding is all things love. From the soft color palette to the inviting website copy, all of it makes you feel like you’re speaking to an old friend.

Zola has a distinct brand voice that is consistent throughout its website. Even their social content speaks to their company slogan that their team and company will do anything for love. Overall, Zola’s copy is a clear demonstration of the importance of a brand voice.

Proof Collective

Still, in its early stages, Proof Collective was founded on the principles of necessity and sustainability. These clothing items are sustainable and ethically sourced and will last a lifetime.

From their clothing designs to the copy describing their process, Proof Collective has already mastered its brand design tone of voice by incorporating their core values into every aspect of their digital presence: Simplicity without sacrificing quality.

Girlboss

Girlboss has blown up in the past couple of years since its inception and creation by Sophia Amoruso. What first began as a title to her book, Girlboss became a brand for all women to acknowledge and own their own power.

From book to a media company, this platform was created so women would have a place to learn, connect and inspire one another. Girlboss has become such a powerful brand that #girlboss has been used over 16.3 million times on Instagram alone.

Their branding can be seen with the strong language they use across the website and in their social media copy. Their brand voice presentation is also apparent in their bold, statement typography and strong design choices across their digital presence.

Each of these three brand identity examples brings something different to the table. Zola’s content shows you that by creating blog posts with a colloquial voice, you can make users feel more comfortable about tackling the messiness that comes with a wedding.

Proof Collective shows you that great branding can be a result of your values. And Girlboss shows you that by writing with strong language and opening up about issues, you can make your audience feel like they can conquer the world.

They each show you a different way you can use a copy of your site, socials or blogs to relate and speak to your audience. Put best by Neil Patel,

If you produce free and helpful content for your target market, they will engage with you, spread your message, and probably even buy from you.

Tips on How to Develop a Great Brand Voice

In order to develop your company’s brand voice, we’ll go over the points you and your team should go over to create and recognize what brand identity elements are and, ultimately, how you want to portray your brand online.

According to Michelle Linn of Content Marketing Institute,

Content marketing takes a lot of work, persistence, and patience – it’s not for everyone. But, it can be an ideal approach if you truly want to provide a better experience for your customers while making a positive impact on the business in terms of its perception and its bottom line.

Your investment of effort will bring you a positive ROI. Let’s see how this is done:

Audience Research

Get a better understanding of who your audience is. Answer questions like what their age range is, what milestones they are currently going through in life, what their education level is, their geographic location, occupation, etc. This will help you determine how your brand can relate to your users apart from your company’s products and services.

Competitor Analysis

Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer. Learn about your competitors, what their brand voices are and the tones they use. Is there something that inspires you? Or maybe there’s something you know your business can do better? Don’t be afraid to swim in those waters and figure it out!

Color Palette and Design

Different colors evoke different emotions. Determine the kind of mood you want to set with your color palette and design when your users go to your website or social pages.

Tone of Voice and Language

Do you want to sound austere or silly? Do you want users to read your content in a happy tone of voice, or would you rather have them take a more serious tone with your brand?

Try and hone in on the kind of personality your brand should embody on the internet, then support it with the language your brand uses in its digital presence. Are you the kind of brand that curses on social media? Or do you keep everything in a suit and tie? It’s up to you to decide.

Company Values

What does your company stand for? Increasingly in today’s world, big businesses and small businesses alike are coupling their business objectives with a cause. Consider donating proceeds to a specific charity or associating your brand with a philanthropic cause and promoting it.

Show your users that you care about what they care about and incorporate that into your branding.

Prepare a Strategy

Once you’ve done all the leg work, prepare a strategy. Sit down with your development team, account executives and marketing team to make the magic happen!

Be sure everyone has a clear understanding of the colors, tone of voice and language to use when creating content for your brand.

Branding Guidelines

Create a set of guidelines; a list of the do’s and don’ts for all your employees so they know how to stay on brand. From emails to online chats, from infographics to blog posts, make it easy and simple for anyone in your company to follow.

Key Takeaways

Hopefully, we’ve answered all your brand voice questions and you can now begin to create a stellar brand voice of your own. Your brand is your company’s reputation, it’s what you want to be known as and known for. Crafting your brand’s voice will turn you from just another company into something unique that can only be experienced by association with your business.

Here are the key takeaways of our discussion today one more time:

A brand’s voice is how your brand is viewed and perceived by users through your content

Different companies can provide different examples for how to communicate your brand’s voice

Developing a great brand voice take’s time and is a process your team should invest in because the return will truly be worthwhile

Good luck!

We’re the top Web Developers in Denver, CO for a reason. We build gorgeous, intuitive websites with fluid user experiences, and it all starts with a custom web design. We want to build you a website that is more than pretty pictures on a screen.

[trishagoh]

NESTLE CERELAC CAMPAIGN

#SAVESYOUTIMEFORTHEMOREIMPORTANTTHINGS is a mock campaign created for Nestle Cerelac. 

The objectives of this campaign is to present Nestle Cerelac as a quick yet healthy solution, to help parents save time on having to prepare meals for their baby to have more precious time spent with their baby. 

The problem is that Nestle Cerelac is perceived to be boring. Flavors are too basic and plain: wheat, grains, bananas... 

Parents tend to think if it’s so simple and plain, they might as well make from scratch. 

Hence, I decided to use that as its unique selling point and brand it in a way where spending precious time to create fond memories with baby is more important. 

By using Nestle Cerelac as a base, which is loaded with nutrients sufficient for babies, saves them time then having to make it from scratch as it is quick and simple to make just by adding milk formula or hot water.

The visuals would work as a poster series, capturing the fun times and memories parents can create with their little ones.

POSTER SERIES

Visual 1:

Visual 2:

Visual 3:

Visual 4:

Note: The images used are sourced from Google and edited on Adobe Photoshop. 

CRITS:

1. Joanna Dorai:

Consider a key message that is closer and clearer to the role of the product... In reality, parents would spend time with their kids with or without the product. Or, they could be too busy to spend time with kids anyway, let alone prepare a simple meal. In this way, the headline doesn't quite sell the product.

So think about what the product really solves - yes it is a quick and nutritious meal. The question is, so what? And why would people care?

Therefore perhaps think about what Cerelac (quick nutritious meal) would mean to them as a busy parent. For example, busy parents need a quick fix for their children's meals. The problem is the instant format makes them feel like it is less nutritious which makes them feel guilty for spending so little effort in preparing an important meal for their children. The challenge then is how do we make the simple act of pouring in hot water or milk formula feel like a respectable effort? Explore if this will inform better your copywriting and art direction.

2. Gabrielle Moey:

It's nice that you use another approach (sentimental element) on this as you are right, I think people generally see this as quite a boring product. I think your poster conveys that mum and kids relationship/memories very well. But looking from the branding perspective, I think your key message could be improved. 

Right now I see 2 key messages - "The More Important" & "Saves you Time". Perhaps focusing on just one can help expand your vision more and help you further communicate the message to your audience. 

Once you have your narrowed down key message and target audience, I'm sure that you will come up with a more clear direction of design that works for that particular audience.

3. Annabelle Foo:

Choice of visuals are warm and captures the heart of spending quality time with family.

Convenience of the product is clear & straight to the point.

Suggestions/Feedback:

Although the visuals revolve around a similar theme, try using images without watermarks on them! (Visual 3 & 4)

The messaging behind #SAVESYOUTIMEFORTHEMOREIMPORTANTTHINGS can be expanded more to highlight the values that your visuals are bringing out. Like you said, the series captures the fun parents have with their little ones - these important things are actually little things that a parent would never want to miss out on in their child’s life - like when their baby learns to crawl for the first time or when a toddler utters words. However in reality, these moments take time and it’s easy for them to go by. 

You could expand these situations into different headlines of your visual instead of having a similar headline since it’s already in your visuals! You have a really strong concept going on already, and if you boil it down even more to a single sentiment, I think it could be #NeverMisstheLittleThings or even #LittleThingsTakeTime which is where the main benefit of Nestle Cerelac also comes in - convenience! 

That way, the hashtag also becomes catchy/memorable and also most importantly easier-utilised on social media platforms.

3. Eunice Loke:

Layout is clean Question: If the time spent to make porridge from scratch and make cerelac and add stuff is the same, why would I want to buy this? Problem: boring and plain Solution: Spice it up 4. Basil Cha: Definitely a great cause, about creating time to spend with parents and kids- Think it needs a bit more depth. The direct solution is that the solution saves much more time that can be spent with kids, but how can the brand actually encourage this relationship between parents and baby even more? Feels like parenting is a chore and this solution is just helping your burden but what if we position it as “my favorite things” instead of “the more important things” e.g. My favorite thing is playtime and I have more of it because I spend less time prepping meals. “These are a few of my favorite things”    Advertising has gone past straightforward directions, need to tap into your audience. Is it stay-at-home moms? Working moms? What are their biggest pain points, what are their joys? When we understand our audience we know how to reach them. (Similar to evangelism no? HAHA)    

Try not to use pictures with watermarks on it (if not have to Photoshop them out with the Clone Stamp tool – you can explore this) but there are tons of free stock images now like Pexels and Unsplash. Also if you’re targeting Malaysian people use Asian families not white people? 5. Yae-ber Neo: Hashtag as campaign title ought to be careful with use of hashtags as campaign titles. Think from the perspective of a user on Social Media what would catch your eye, readability, length and message all play a part. Study the more successful hashtag campaigns and discover the big idea that drives their campaign to relate with the target audience.

Execution: Elevate your execution by photographing on your own, examiners appreciate this better because then you can also incorporate a stronger conceptualization to back your execution. If you have to use a stock photo, do make sure to get those without a watermark. Visual hierarchy: arrangement of your items (visual, headline, body copy) should lead your reader to understand the message just as you plan for. Choice of size, colour, contrast, alignment and placement will do the trick! Headline: your headline ‘for the more important things’ is not bad, the treatment however can improve. The visibility is not as clear as your slogan/subhead, ‘saves your time’. Experiment with choice of colour, outlines, drop shadow etc. to see how you can make your key message (headline) stand out. Colour: Creating a colour palette that you stick to would give overall brand consistency. Body copy: should give it a little more breathing space, have more negative space on each side, look a little cramp atm, and enlarge the bottom box. 6. Sarah Ann Toolseram: Choose the right images. Change The font or change colour to give allowance for printing errors. Pictures are appropriate for target audience -Feeding can be a bonding activity. -Saves you time from prepping the meal or feeding the kid? So you can have more time for fun things.For the more important things -TaglineDesign consistency. 7. Damien Chung: I Understand the idea behind it, the motivation behind it. It’s a good thought. Personally, I don’t find the selling point really convincing for me. It’s basically the same as milo or rather powdered milk (since it’s for babies), or baby food. Perhaps what can be done is not shifting away the focus from the boring flavours but instead find a way to highlight it and make it interesting. Because parents might actually find the process of making food for their babies even more so interesting and also worthwhile, rather than finding ways to save time on it. From that satisfaction, it might then translate to them having fun with children. Preparing food is also considered “an important” thing 8. Ian Lai:

I really like the concept of focusing on the important things, like special moments with your child. But “#SAVESYOUTIMEFORTHEMOREIMPORTANTTHINGS” doesn’t work as a campaign hashtag, it’s too long and hard to read and remember. Something simpler like “#theimportantthings” would be easier to remember.As for the visuals/ads, I think that it can be stronger to drive home the message of focusing on the important things. Right now parents spending time with their kids is too generic. You want to really guilt trip parents with the visuals. For example, baby’s first steps. It would really suck for a parent to miss it, and every parent can relate to it.  Copywriting can really drive the message across, “Don’t miss baby’s first steps just because you’re busy preparing her dinner.”“Saves you time for the more important things” is a good tagline for the campaign. Every ad could end with that as a tag. The typography can be more simple and tasteful, no need to have different font sizes or dancing letters (a bit high school word art). Also a better font choice for the body copy would help

[tripolystudio]

What is branding, and 5 Reasons Why Logo Design is important?

If you Google "brand definition" you will find forty-three different attempts on just the primary page of search results alone. There are numerous competing misconceptions about what a brand is that it'd be simpler to mention what a brand isn't : A brand is not a logo. A brand isn't a reputation . A brand isn't a trademark, symbol or jingle. Yes, this stuff affect the brand, but a brand encompasses all of this and more.

                            Best branding logo design company  in india

What is branding?

To begin to know Best branding logo design company in india is, you want to first understand that your brand doesn't exist in your marketing department, your PR team, or your CEO's office. A brand exists only within the minds of your customers. Simply put, a brand is that the sum of all the impressions a customer has, supported every interaction they need had with you, your company and your products. all of those interactions tells a story to your customers. If your customer believes that a product is new and innovative, then those attributes become a part of your brand therein customer's mind. If your packaging is beautifully illustrated, then they'll view your brand as sophisticated or elite. On the opposite hand, if your service is poor, customers might think you're stubborn or rude. If your print materials are designed in MS Paint, you'll look cheap and amateur.

 Every interaction sends a message

Imagine all of those interactions as arrows, and every one points to a message. for instance , your product (a big interaction) might point to the message that your company is innovative. Another arrow—your beautifully illustrated print advertisements—might point to the message that you're sophisticated and elite. But what if an arrow—customer service—is rude and hard to contact? What if your CEO makes an off-color joke that's caught on a news camera? all of those things are interactions you've got together with your customers, and each one among them goes to affect how they view your company.

 All of those samples of interaction "arrows" point to different messages, sending a muddy overall brand message where the customer doesn't know if you're likable or not—whether they need to continue buying your products or go visit your competitor.

To manage your brand, you would like to make a decision on a brand message then confirm that each one of the interactions together with your company—these arrows—are aimed toward your brand message.

 Think, for instance , of Disney. Several years ago, Disney decided that their brand was "Magical Family Fun." They now attempt to point all of their interaction arrows at their target brand, at every level of the corporate . Yes, there are the apparent examples, like their movies, and theme parks where actors at Disneyland (called "cast members") dress up as Cinderella, Jack Sparrow and Mickey Mouse. But their brand influences the Disney Stores across the country: every morning, when the stores open, cast members select children to ceremonially unlock the stores with a special keepsake key. Even when providing customer service, the cast members integrate the Magical Family Fun brand message—aside from always sounding happy and wanting to talk with you, they'll spend overtime on the phone reminiscing about past experiences within the park, always happy to concentrate to customers' stories or share their own memories. Everything they are doing , all of their arrows, is aimed toward Magical Family Fun.

 Walmart is another interesting example, because their brand message became their slogan: "Save Money. Live Better." Yes, they bargain hard to form sure that they need rock bottom prices, but they also initiated the now-widespread $4 prescription plan, selling prescriptions for a way lower margin—or, often, no profit in the least . they are doing everything they will to form their customers' dollars stretch as far as possible. The company's charitable giving is now quite a billion dollars per annum .

Whatever brand message you select , confirm that your customers' impressions—your arrows—all point within the right direction. Remember the old marketing adage: "A bad advertisement is worse than no ad in the least ." By being a brand ambassador—by sending consistent, targeted messages—your customers will understand exactly who you're and what you'll do for them.

 Why is branding important?

In 1975, marketers at PepsiCo started a campaign that might become a legend within the world of advertising, and would fire the primary shot within the Cola Wars. The experiment was simple and effective: booths appeared in malls and supermarkets, sports arenas and state fairs; participants drank two sips of cola from unmarked cups and were asked which beverage they liked better. Overwhelmingly, the selection was clear: consumers favored Pepsi. In almost every venue, in almost every demographic, Pepsi was the winner.

 But there arose the paradox: Coca-Cola was destroying Pepsi in market share. Even now, forty years later, Coke controls the most important piece of the carbonated beverage market share—seventeen percent. Diet Coke comes in second place at nine percent. And Pepsi—the clear taste favorite—languishes in third place at eight percent.

 Now, there are some attempts to elucidate the disparity. In his 2005 book Blink, Malcolm Gladwell suggested that the rationale is thanks to the tiny amounts: that, when only drinking a sip, people prefer a sweeter drink—which Pepsi is. But studies haven't always proven that to be true, nor has it been studied nearly the maximum amount as competing taste tests.

 So what explains it? Well, a search professor at the Baylor College of drugs decided to actually put the claims to the test—to find out , physiologically, why consumers made that choice.

 He put test subjects into an fMRI, a machine that tests brain activity by watching the flow of blood from one region to a different . within the first phase of the test, he had subjects drink cola while their brains were being scanned. once more , Pepsi was chosen because the favorite. it had been the ventral putamen that lit abreast of the scan—part of the brain that creates up the reward system. In essence, the brain was saying "I like this. It makes me happy."

 But within the next phase of the experiment, researchers altered a key component of the test: this point , they told participants what they were drinking. It changed everything. not was the reward system lighting up: instead, it had been the cerebral mantle , the higher-level decision-making a part of the brain. When people drank, their brain wasn't evaluating flavor; it had been evaluating memories and knowledge . And when this higher-level cognitive a part of the brain was working, Coke soundly beat out Pepsi.

 This, consistent with the researchers, was the effect of branding. When a consumer has previous impressions of a product or company, it'll actually change the way their brain evaluates such straightforward decisions as "which tastes better?" Coke features a long history of standout marketing efforts. Collectors take over old ads and bottles dating all the way back to the 1880s. People buy clothes depicting the famous Coca-Cola logo. there's even a Coke museum in Atlanta, where tourists pay $16 for the prospect to look at exhibits about how great Coke is. And once they look to form their purchase decisions in-store, all of that material makes for a strong brand.

 This is the strength of an honest brand management strategy. Granted, Coke has quite a century behind them, and therefore the love of the brand has been passed down from generation to generation. But while becoming subsequent Coke is daunting (at best), this does function an honest aspirational lesson on why branding matters.

 Key takeaways

• A brand exists only within the mind of your customers. it's the sum of all impressions that your customer gets from all interactions with you, your product and your company.

• Every interaction sends a message—it is your job, as brand manager, to form sure all of these messages are pointing the proper direction to support your brand strategy.

• Proper branding elevates your product to be quite just a sum of its parts. People make purchasing decisions supported quite just product features.

5 Reasons Why Logo Design is important?

Did you recognize you that you simply can tell a whole story without saying anything? it's possible to catch someone’s eye and have them react emotionally in a moment .

 While this seems like a near-impossible task, 

Best Logo Designers In India serve that purpose. Logos are the cornerstone of your identity. It’s where a relationship together with your customer begins and follows along through their entire journey with you. like all worthwhile relationship, a particular amount of labor is required . A poorly designed logo may turnoff a customer. the subsequent examples will illustrate why logo design is vital for your brand.

 First Impressions Are Important

You only have mere seconds to point out someone what your brand is about. Your customers not only got to see personality but they also got to understand the setting where your brand lives in.

 An example of this is able to be Jon Contino’s revamp of yank Eagle’s logo, where he wanted to make a way of nostalgia:

“The inspiration came from the American culture that the majority people don’t believe . Stuff that we'd deem granted. I wanted to specialise in the time we spend as kids stepping into trouble: running round the neighborhood with friends, getting lost within the woods, making fires on the beach. Whatever we wont to occupy our time with in between the planet of carelessness and responsibility.”

A clear first impression is made , and an image of where the brand lives is established.

 Logos Are A Cultural Symbol

The Best Logo Design Company In India sort of advertising is word of mouth. Once a customer is crazy together with your product or company, they will become evangelists for your brand.

Consumers are 92% more likely to trust recommendations from friends and family than the other sorts of advertising.

If a lover is wearing a shirt with a logo or they see a sticker on a laptop, curiosity arises in us and that we want to understand what it stands for.

Logo design that's successful represents the personality of consumers also because the personality of your brand. Customers aren't only fans, they're also a neighborhood of your culture, and that’s a strong thing.

 Logos Separate You from Competitors

Having a robust logo raises the prospect of standing out from other brands. Beyond just choosing a strong typeface or symbol, a growing trend is that the use of hand-drawn illustration. best company brochure design

Having a mascot gives you the chance of owning not only owning a 1 of a sort piece but being the owner of a personality .

 Logos Are Recognizable

Your identity must be understood on an area , national, and international level.

Expansion relies heavily on clear communication of what your product does also as attracting customers. it's no coincidence that the foremost powerful companies within the world also are a number of the foremost recognizable and influential also .

 Logos Follow You Everywhere

Your logo goes to be everywhere, on your website, your t-shirts, your stickers, your business cards, etc. Where ever your business is present your logo will follow, so it's important to form your logo worthwhile .

Your logo has got to tell a tale and make a sense in your customers.

If your logo can accomplish that, you’ve told a story without even saying a word.

 No doubt having a well-designed logo is vital . an excellent thanks to get a well-designed logo is by using online logo maker like Logo joy.

Logo joy makes the method of logo creation super easy. Logo joy can automatically generate logos supported questions you answer. If you are doing not just like the suggestions provided, you'll request more logos. Once you’ve chosen a logo it’s easy to stay making changes until it’s precisely the way you would like it.

[homebuildersandersonvwfh721-blog]

The Basic Principles Of Custom Home Builders

In this short article we want to discuss one of the most constant questions asked by possible customers that usually cause the conflict in between a customer and a professional.

I. Cost of work:

Extremely typically one could find customers' issues regarding the overall price for the repair that appears to be pretty more than originally anticipated. Is it possible? Yes. Why? Let us clarify this. We need to state that we would certainly disregard the situation (that however happens) when chasing consumer, the professional deliberately gives took too lightly numbers when the customer gets on the hook anything can be done.

You chose to do fix, select a number of business and ask them to prepare a price estimate. For this you would need a thorough layout with the drawings, requirements, checklist of products and so on. It would take numerous months and even more to do this kind of price price quote and 2-3% of costs would be assigned for backups.

Let us be reasonable. Over eight years experience in handling the venture we had an opportunity to handle such jobs a number of times. In the very best situation the design ends up at the stage of general drawings with further stage-by-stage shipment of in-depth illustrations.

Often we get basic outlays, rough design details etc. The most frequent situation is as follows: nothing is readily available or "please do for me exactly what you see in this magazine". Can you define exactly what you desire? Who recognizes? Can you propose something as an expert? Over a number of mins of discussion with you the estimator needs to guess just what your taste is and suggest to you some choices in addition to make your desires, desires, unclear outlines and all that you assumed throughout long evenings become a reality through concrete numbers. In fact set you back estimate is the prepare for the repair work of your home with connection to concrete materials (as an example in the bed room repainted wallpaper and in the children's room level wallpaper will certainly be utilized) with revealing average prices for them.

In our viewpoint making this expense price quote maximum near real cost you would need to do the following:

Work with the designers as possible. The expenses you sustain for the design work will certainly be generously settled. Expense of redesign on paper is not so high.

2). While preparing cost quote it is needed making a list of work and take some choices (e.g. here laminate and there glaze-tile will be installed etc). It is additionally essential to discuss exactly what top quality and cost of materials will certainly be made use of in the expense estimate.

3). A customer must make certain that it is impossible to picture every little thing in this record.

Even for the detailed expense quote https://en.search.wordpress.com/?src=organic&q=construction company a client should envision a get of minimal 0-15%. The greater amount and variety of work as well as material costs, the greater price of work.

II. Terms.

Clearly any repair service relates to inconveniency and any type of client would wish to complete it as soon as possible. However let us not become heroes of popular TELEVISION reveals that define just how brave contractors over eventually glue the wall surface paper, placed the glaze-tiles, set up the circuitry and even ultimately clean everything with the vacuum cleaner.

One need to understand that there are some tasks that can not be performed in thrill. If it is called for to dry the straightened wall prior to putting the polish ceramic tiles, this should be done, no matter for how long it would certainly take. This must be done if it is needed to polish and clean the wall surface 2-3 times before placing top notch paint. Infraction of the innovation and called for terms will certainly lead to additional client's cost.

III. Top quality of work.

All discussed above holds true for the top quality of job. There are also two considerable variables. To terrific prolong the top quality of work relies on the quality of materials. When you assign work with the high expense products to individuals earning pences, we all want to save the cash yet you should avoid silly situation. An excellent master ought to be extremely certified, earn great loan, take and utilize excellent devices responsibility for his work.

IV. "If I pay, do exactly what I desire"

Magic words ... however let me notice that there are unbiased phenomena that can not be disregarded. kcbuildingandpropertymaintenance.ie Without special steps one can not make aperture job or get rid of load-bearing wall surface no issue whether somebody wants it. And high quality glaze-tiles could not be set up on the cement, just on the special glue. And for specific paint certain filler should be used, not the one that was discovered at low price. An excellent specialist that value his work would explain why your needs in some cases can not be completely satisfied and prefer to refuse to get the job done compared to do something wrong.

Hope that this post will certainly aid you to discover an excellent contractor.

In all your undertakings adhere to the slogan: Entrust your job to specialists.

It would take a number of months and even more to do this kind of price quote and 2-3% of prices would certainly be alloted for contingencies.

The expenses you sustain for the style work will be kindly paid off. While preparing expense quote it is needed to make a checklist of job and take some choices (e.g. right here laminate and there glaze-tile will be installed etc). The higher amount and array of work as well as product costs, the higher cost of job.

We all desire to save the money however you should prevent absurd scenario when you appoint work with the high price materials to individuals making pences.

[theadmiringbog]

Emergence over Authority

Pull over Push

Compasses over Maps

Risk over Safety

Disobedience over Compliance

Practice over Theory

Diversity over Ability

Resilience over Strength

Systems over Objects

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Emergence is about the use of the many, over the few, to solve problems, pull takes that notion one step further, using what’s needed only at the precise moment it’s needed most.

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A pull strategy requires transparency and a two-way flow of information in and out of the organization ...

The logic of pull would be that supply shouldn’t even be generated until demand has emerged.     

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Dr. Mark Granovetter argued that weak ties—those that connect casual acquaintances and friends of friends—have the potential to bridge communities and create a sense of trust and connection between people who know each other only slightly or not at all. People with a wide range of weak ties therefore have more opportunities to pull resources from their networks. As Malcolm Gladwell has noted, “Our acquaintances—not our friends—are our greatest source of new ideas and information.”              

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Serendipity Is Not Luck                

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Sociologist Mark Granovetter’s theory of the “strength of weak ties”: it’s those connections outside of your normal circle that often provide the most value. But serendipity is not luck. It is a combination of creating a network and an environment rich with weak ties, a peripheral vision that is “switched on,” and an enthusiasm for engagement that attracts and encourages interaction.    

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The world is changing, and instead of stocking resources and information, controlling everything, planning everything, and pushing messages and orders from the core to the edge, innovation is now happening at the edges. Resources are pulled as needed: the world is going from “stocks” to “flows.”     

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A map implies a detailed knowledge of the terrain, and the existence of an optimum route; the compass is a far more flexible tool and requires the user to employ creativity and autonomy in discovering his or her own path.                

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The decision to forfeit the map in favor of the compass recognizes that in an increasingly unpredictable world moving ever more quickly, a detailed map may lead you deep into the woods at an unnecessarily high cost. A good compass, though, will always take you where you need to go.                 

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The principle of compasses over maps also allows individuals and companies to respond rapidly to changing assumptions and environments. When faced with a roadblock, innovators with good compasses can navigate around the obstacle rather than have to go back to the beginning of the journey to redraw the map.                

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The MIT Media Lab is about “Uniqueness, Impact, and Magic.” 

Uniqueness: The Lab works on things no one else is working on, and if someone else is working on it, we move on. As George Church says, if you’re competing, it’s not interesting. 

Impact: Many who work in the pure sciences are trying to discover knowledge “for science.” While this is important, the Media Lab works in the service of impact, a concept that has evolved over the years. Nicholas Negroponte allegedly coined the phrase “Demo or Die.” It’s a reference to the Lab as build-oriented and impact-oriented.                

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Instead of rules or even strategy, the key to success is culture.                

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Whether we are talking about our moral compass, our world view, or our sensibility and taste, the way that we set these compasses is through the culture that we create and how we communicate that culture through events, e-mail, meetings, blog posts, the rules that we make, and even the music that we play. It is more of a system of mythologies than some sort of mission statement or slogan.                

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Disobedience, especially in crucial realms like problem solving, often pays greater dividends than compliance. Innovation requires creativity, and creativity—to the great frustration of well-meaning (and not so well-meaning) managers—often requires freedom from constraints.                

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In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is. 

—Yogi Berra            

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Putting practice over theory means recognizing that in a faster future, in which change has become a new constant, there is often a higher cost to waiting and planning than there is to doing and then improvising.                

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When you emphasize practice over theory, you don’t need to wait for permission, or explain yourself before you begin. And once you’ve started, if your circumstances change or your development process takes an unexpected turn, you don’t always need to stop and figure out what happened before you go on. 

The level to which you can exercise practice over theory depends on the “layer” you are working on—infrastructure and other capital-intensive projects, obviously, offer fewer opportunities for iteration and relatively painless risk-taking. This stands in contrast to higher, softer layers such as software or marketing, which have radical new cost structures, and should be approached accordingly.                

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Agile development quickly gained cultural currency for its emphasis on adaptive planning (think: shoot, ready, aim, shoot again), early delivery to clients, and ability to improvise in response to unexpected challenges.                

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When DuPont’s engineers were designing the B Reactor in Hanford, Washington—the world’s first full-scale plutonium production reactor—the physicists working with them couldn’t understand why they insisted on so many blueprints, or why they wanted to build so much room for error into the design. Enrico Fermi told Crawford “Greenie” Greenewalt, one of DuPont’s chemical engineers, “What you should do is to build a pile just as quickly as you can, cut corners, do anything possible to get it done quickly. Then you will run it, and it won’t work. Then you’ll find out why it doesn’t work and you will build another one that does.”                

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Diversity over Ability                

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To prioritize diversity over perceived merit—the colorblind assessment of ability that has never really been colorblind at all—is to recognize that strategic imperatives can’t be the sole benchmark by which we distribute society’s prizes. 

There’s an increasing sense—among the millennials who fill our lecture halls, but out in the rougher world of cubicles and delivery vans and hospital waiting rooms as well—that it’s not enough to be right, or profitable, or talented. You must also be just.                

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The classic illustration of resilience over strength is the story of the reed and the oak tree. When hurricane winds blow, the steel-strong oak shatters, while the supple, resilient reed bows low and springs up again when the storm has passed. In trying to resist failure, the oak has instead guaranteed it.                

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Traditionally, large companies have, like the oak, hardened themselves against failure. They have stockpiled resources and implemented hierarchical management structures, rigid processes, and detailed five-year plans meant to insulate them from the forces of chaos. In other words, they have valued safety over risk, push over pull, authority over emergence, compliance over obedience, maps over compasses, and objects over systems. 

The software companies that grew up in the age of the Internet, however, have taken a different approach. Their field was so new and changing so rapidly that the measured risk aversion of their predecessors would have left them stranded in the middle of the course while their competitors surged ahead. As a result, they often failed—but their initial investments were low enough to let them learn from their failures and move on.                

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YouTube did not begin in a place of strength. It had only three members, one of whom went back to school before the site launched, rather than taking on management responsibilities. Its initial funding came from the bonuses its founders received when eBay bought their former employer, PayPal. It had no business plan, no patents, and no outside capital, but that left it free to change its focus when its original idea failed.                

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... how to lose in a way that allows you to continue fighting, which is as neat a definition of resilience as you can find.                

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Resilience doesn’t necessarily mean anticipating failure; it means anticipating that you can’t anticipate what’s next, and working instead on a sort of situational awareness.                

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For the music industry it meant acknowledging that the Internet was an opportunity to exploit, not a threat to be neutralized. Print media outlets closely covered the carnage that was music industry in rapid decline, then proceeded to make stunningly similar mistakes. They failed to invest meaningfully in innovative news products during the long years of milk and honey, which meant many great companies withered and shrank when profits grew lean.                

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If this book is written for anyone, it’s the individual determined to make the hard call and chart a new strategy predicated less on winning and power than on thriving in an unpredictable world.                

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“The premise I put to people who start in my group is: Assume the brain is solved in fifty years, and that we’ll need to invent lots of new tools to get there. What are those tools, and which one should we work on now?” he says. In his laboratory, power tools and soldering boards share space with beakers and pipettes. And because systems don’t respect neat disciplinary boundaries, Boyden consciously recruits people with diverse—if highly accomplished—backgrounds; his team of more than forty crack researchers, affiliates, postdocs, and grad students have included a former concert violinist, a venture capitalist, a comparative literature scholar, and several college dropouts.                

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Systems over objects recognizes that responsible innovation requires more than speed and efficiency. It also requires a constant focus on the overall impact of new technologies, and an understanding of the connections between people, their communities, and their environments.                

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Both of us had emerged from the experience deeply concerned about the ability of large institutions to weather a crucial juncture in human history, which is to say, our own historical moment, a worry exacerbated by a shared belief that the future holds far more radical, tumultuous change than the average executive understood.