creative https://www.wisebread.com/taxonomy/term/2996/all en-US Make Money Editing Photos With These Online Tools https://www.wisebread.com/make-money-editing-photos-with-these-online-tools <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/make-money-editing-photos-with-these-online-tools" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/photographer_editing_photos_on_her_computer.jpg" alt="Photographer Editing Photos on her computer" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>When you need extra cash, side hustles are an easy solution. However, if you're short on time, committing hours to <a href="https://uber.7eer.net/c/27771/207645/3437?sharedid=000_wisebread.com">driving for Uber</a> or delivering packages for Postmates can be difficult. That's why flexible gigs that allow you to work from home &mdash; bonus points if it's from your couch &mdash; are so important. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/find-a-side-gig-at-these-4-best-micro-jobs-sites?ref=seealso" target="_blank">Find a Side Gig at These 4 Best Micro-Jobs Sites</a>)</p> <p>If you have an artistic side and love photography, you can make some serious cash editing photos. And, you can skip spending time on building a website or pitching clients. These three sites and apps connect you directly to clients who need your help. Through these companies, you can work whenever you want &mdash; 24 hours a day, seven days a week. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/14-best-side-jobs-for-fast-cash?ref=seealso" target="_blank">14 Best Side Jobs For Fast Cash</a>)</p> <h2>1. FixThePhoto</h2> <p><a href="http://fixthephoto.com/photo-retoucher-jobs" target="_blank">FixThePhoto</a> is a service meant for professional photographers. Retouching photos can take up a significant portion of their workload, reducing how much time they can allocate to booking gigs, marketing, or actually shooting. FixThePhoto allows photographers to outsource retouching to free up more time.</p> <p>FixThePhoto editors work completely remote on a freelance basis. When you become an editor, you can post your services and your own retouching rates. If you have experience doing more complex work, you can set higher rates than someone just starting out. You can work whenever you want and decide how much work you want to take on.</p> <h2>2. Mendr</h2> <p><a href="http://www.mendr.com/become-an-editor/" target="_blank">Mendr</a> was created for both professionals and individuals who want to have their photos professionally retouched on a budget. Mendr connects those people with skilled editors who retouch the images for $2 to $30 per photo, depending on the complexity of the changes.</p> <p>Unlike many other freelancing platforms, there is no bidding process. On other sites, photo editors often bid on gigs, which causes profits to drop in a race to the bottom. With Mendr, you can claim any of the jobs available and start working right away. With that approach, you know exactly how much you'll get paid and there's no waiting.</p> <p>If you do great work, you can increase your earning potential, too. Users can request you to work on their photos and pay an extra fee to have you do the edits. You receive 100 percent of the added fee.</p> <p>You do not have to be a professional editor to work for Mendr, but you will need to pass a skills test. The Mendr app works similarly to other photo editing programs, so a familiarity with Photoshop or similar applications is helpful.</p> <h2>3. Shutterstock</h2> <p>Shutterstock frequently hires <a href="http://shutterstock.com/jobs/listings?gh_jid=193093" target="_blank">freelance photo reviewers</a> to ensure submitted photos meet the company's standards. As a reviewer, you'll check that the photos are the right resolution, do not violate any copyright laws, and that they meet Shutterstock's guidelines in terms of content.</p> <p>While you won't edit or retouch the photos, you will edit the photo's metadata like captions, titles, and tags so site users can find the pictures.</p> <p>To be eligible to be a reviewer, you must have experience with photography, either behind the camera or as an editor. You'll need high speed internet and a reliable computer. You can work up to 30 hours a week with Shutterstock, so it can be an excellent source of extra income.</p> <h2>Making money</h2> <p>If you need more cash to pay down debt, boost your savings account, or just to splurge on a vacation, turning your photo editing skills can be a lucrative source of income. You can work when it's convenient for you and decide your own workload. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/earn-extra-income-with-your-smartphone-camera?ref=seealso" target="_blank">Earn Extra Income With Your Smartphone Camera</a>)</p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!</h2> <div align="center"> <script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></div> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/Make%20Money%20Editing%20Photos%20With%20These%20Online%20Tools.jpg" alt="Make Money Editing Photos With These Online Tools" width="250" height="374" /></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/5191">Kat Tretina</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/make-money-editing-photos-with-these-online-tools">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-1"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/15-lucrative-side-hustles-for-city-dwellers">15 Lucrative Side Hustles for City Dwellers</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/earn-extra-income-with-your-smartphone-camera">Earn Extra Income With Your Smartphone Camera</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/11-ways-to-make-money-while-at-the-beach-this-summer">11 Ways to Make Money While at the Beach This Summer</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-ways-to-make-money-from-mothers-day">5 Ways to Make Money From Mother&#039;s Day</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-ways-to-make-money-over-memorial-day-weekend">7 Ways to Make Money Over Memorial Day Weekend</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Extra Income artistic creative editing photos fixthephoto mendr photo shop photography retouching shutterstock side gigs Mon, 16 Oct 2017 08:30:09 +0000 Kat Tretina 2035893 at https://www.wisebread.com Video Resumes and 5 Other Cool Tricks to Land the Job https://www.wisebread.com/video-resumes-and-5-other-cool-tricks-to-land-the-job <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/video-resumes-and-5-other-cool-tricks-to-land-the-job" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/000009153869.jpg" alt="Woman using video resume and cool tricks to land the job" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>These days, a regular resume may not be enough to get you noticed. Competition for good jobs is fierce, and for the top jobs, you'll be up against some very talented people. What will you do to get noticed? How far are you willing to go to get that interview?</p> <p>Well, if your answer is &quot;I'll do whatever it takes,&quot; you are already on the right path. Now, keep going. From video resumes to PR stunts and creative direct mail, here are some of the best ways to upgrade your resume from ordinary to extraordinary.</p> <h2>1. First, the Video Resume</h2> <p>One of the hottest new ways to land an interview is to make a video resume. Now, let's be clear. A video resume should never be used in place of an actual resume. At the end of the day, people want a quick and easy way to look over your skills, qualifications, and work history. Instead, think of the video resume as a trailer for the resume itself. You want to entice people into your work history, and say something about yourself in the process. How do you do that in a way that is appropriate for the job? Well, it all depends on what the job is, so here are a few tips:</p> <h3>Tailor Every Video Resume to the Job You Want</h3> <p>If you're applying to a very creative job, such as an advertising or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT1XYjZcmck">marketing position</a>, an acting job, a programmer, or something else inventive and fun, you really have to stand out. Be creative, imaginative, and resourceful. Add effects, get a VO done, or even create a mini-movie. If the job is a little more conservative, find ways to stand out without being too outrageous. You want to be noticed, but for the right reasons. This <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRHFEDyHIsc">video resume for Google</a> is a great example of what to do, and it has over 1.4 million hits.</p> <h3>Plan It Out Carefully</h3> <p>If you'll be on camera, figure out what you want to say, and how you want to say it. Will you need props? Will a change of clothing be required? Do you need to bring in a camera operator, or someone to help you film some of the more difficult scenes? Do you need a script, or a prompter? Some people find it easier to have cue cards at hand, just in case. The more preparation you do, the better the end result will be.</p> <h3>Rehearse &mdash; Then Rehearse Again</h3> <p>Unless you really want the video resume to look very amateurish (this could actually be a fun way to stand out, if it's done way over the top), then you need to do several practice runs. In most cases, this will cost you nothing but time. Try it, watch it, see where your strengths and weaknesses lie. Then, go again. Rehearsing can be the difference between a good video resume, and an exceptional one.</p> <h2>2. Create Innovative Mailers</h2> <p>If you have ever received an unexpected gift or package in the mail, you'll know the excitement it can create. Even if you know it's coming, such as a package from Loot Crate or Birchbox, you can't wait to open it up and see what is revealed.</p> <p>This same feeling of mystery and surprise can be duplicated with a <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=creative+resume+mailer&amp;biw=1680&amp;bih=933&amp;source=lnms&amp;tbm=isch&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=0CAYQ_AUoAWoVChMIrL6nlqSJyAIVihaSCh0jyAaZ">creative resume mailer</a>. Many people who work in advertising, marketing, design, PR, and other very creative and visual fields will already know the benefits of this. Make no mistake, they can take time to create. This is not simply printing out a resume on a sheet of nice paper and mailing it off (or these days, e-mailing it).</p> <p>In the past, I have personally created and mailed out first aid kits, published a CliffsNotes booklet, assembled a pop-up book, used 3D art with glasses, and even stamped my information on aluminum. These are the lengths many people in my profession will go to to stand out. Now think about your own profession. What can you do to go above and beyond the norm?</p> <h2>3. Put Yourself on a Billboard</h2> <p>Want to go one step further than a mailer? Well, how about spending a little money to put your resume or website on a billboard? A guy called Bennett Olson lost his job in a casino, and figured a great way to get himself out there was to <a href="http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/05/11/guys-billboard-resume-gets-him-a-job/">rent a giant billboard</a> featuring his name and web address. This is a tactic that has been employed by several other big thinkers in recent years, including Adam Pacitti's <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2279261/Adam-Pacitti-spent-500-billboard-begging-job-spends-pay-packet-say-thanks.html">billboard in London</a>, and Fed Brumwell's billboard outside of the Google offices. If you are willing to take a gamble, and have the courage to spend that kind of money (it can cost hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars) it could really pay off.</p> <h2>4. Employ PR and Guerrilla Stunts</h2> <p>Feeling really adventurous? Then go beyond the billboard to a stunt that will not only attract the attention of future employers, but news outlets, bloggers, and other influencers. For instance, Liz Hickok, a Georgia resident, decided to put her <a href="http://www.wtvy.com/home/headlines/Ga_Woman_Displays_Resume_in_Christmas_Lights_136171803.html">resume up in Christmas lights</a> outside her home. It attracted a whole lot of attention, and many news stories were generated.</p> <p>John Kolbe created a contest, offering someone an <a href="http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/workinglife/tweeting-your-way-into-a-job/1025749">HD camcorder</a> if they helped him land a job. And at CareerBuilder, you can see some of the most <a href="http://www.careerbuilder.com/share/aboutus/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=pr464&amp;sd=10%2f8%2f2008&amp;ed=12%2f31%2f2008">bizarre tactics</a> people have used to get hired, including free foot massages for a future employer, and adding your name to the menu of a popular restaurant. These stunts may not land you the job you were initially looking for, but they may get you an even better job with someone else.</p> <h2>5. Place Ads on Facebook</h2> <p>Facebook ads can be highly targeted, and very effective at reaching the people you want to speak to. If you have a particular job in mind, in a certain part of the country, you can run ads that will reach only those potential employers.</p> <p>Job-Hunt lists four success stories of the <a href="http://www.job-hunt.org/social-networking/facebook-job-search/facebook-ad-job-success-stories.shtml">Facebook ads strategy</a>, and the results were impressive. For instance, Sam Solomon spent just $150 on his Facebook ads, targeting specific industries that he wanted to work in. He received five interviews, 18 email follow-ups, and got two blog posts written about his idea. For some of us, $150 may be a lot to spend, but for those kinds of opportunities, is it really too much?</p> <h2>6. Try Cold Calling</h2> <p>We live in a world dominated by emails, text messages, tweets, blogs, and other impersonal forms of communication. The idea of simply calling someone to ask for an interview, out of the blue, may seem bizarre at first, but if you think about it, it's a fantastic way to cut through the clutter.</p> <p>Other people are sending the CEOs resumes and emails. But what if you bypass that, and find a way to talk to them person to person? Of course, you need to have something important to say, rather than simply &quot;Hey, can I have an interview?&quot; So, <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/how-to-answer-23-of-the-most-common-interview-questions">do some research on the company</a>. See what they have been invested in lately. What problems have they faced? What challenges are they trying to overcome? If you can offer insights, solutions, or ideas on those subjects, you might be worth listening to over a face-to-face meeting. And that is the end goal.</p> <p><em>Did you try anything unconventional to land a job?</em></p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!</h2> <div align="center"><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="above" data-pin-tall="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Fvideo-resumes-and-5-other-cool-tricks-to-land-the-job&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2FVideo%2520Resumes%2520and%25205%2520Other%2520Cool%2520Tricks%2520to%2520Land%2520the%2520Job.jpg&amp;description=A%20regular%20resume%20may%20not%20be%20enough%20to%20score%20that%20interview%20or%20job.%20There%20are%20some%20cool%20tricks%20like%20Video%20Resumes%2C%20billboards%20and%20more.%20These%20are%20the%20interview%20tips%20and%20career%20advice%20to%20know.%20%7C%20%23career%20%23jobinterview%20%23interviewtips"></a></p> <script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></div> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/Video%20Resumes%20and%205%20Other%20Cool%20Tricks%20to%20Land%20the%20Job.jpg" alt="A regular resume may not be enough to score that interview or job. There are some cool tricks like Video Resumes, billboards and more. These are the interview tips and career advice to know. | #career #jobinterview #interviewtips" width="250" height="374" /></em></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/17">Paul Michael</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/video-resumes-and-5-other-cool-tricks-to-land-the-job">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-2"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-things-you-should-never-do-during-a-job-interview">10 Things You Should Never Do During a Job Interview</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/how-to-get-hired-by-your-dream-company">How to Get Hired by Your Dream Company</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/6-american-cities-with-the-highest-minimum-wage">6 American Cities With the Highest Minimum Wage</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/this-is-what-your-resume-should-include-in-2018">This Is What Your Resume Should Include in 2018</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-things-you-should-never-include-in-your-cover-letter">7 Things You Should Never Include in Your Cover Letter</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Job Hunting clever hiring tricks creative employment getting hired interviewing video resumes Tue, 06 Oct 2015 09:00:38 +0000 Paul Michael 1576303 at https://www.wisebread.com 11 Cool Uses for Popsicle Sticks https://www.wisebread.com/11-cool-uses-for-popsicle-sticks <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/11-cool-uses-for-popsicle-sticks" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/popsicle_sticks_000046971446.jpg" alt="Learning a bunch of cool new uses for popsicle sticks" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Cooling off with popsicles this summer? Don't toss the sticks! There are a number of <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/7-diy-crafts-that-will-save-you-money">arts and crafts</a> you can make with your leftovers. (And if you're not into cold desserts &mdash; don't fret: you can pick up hundreds of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GXD6BU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B001GXD6BU&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wisbre03-20&amp;linkId=GFF5V7IXMG7OHC6X">popsicle sticks</a> online or at your local dollar store.)</p> <h2>1. Coasters</h2> <p>These <a href="http://www.cookinglikelou.com/2014/01/diy-mini-pallet-coasters.html">pallet coasters</a> make an excellent gift for your DIY-loving friends. To make them look especially authentic, you'll cut the rounded edges off with sharp scissors. Stain or leave natural, depending on your preference.</p> <h2>2. Loom</h2> <p>Try out weaving with this <a href="http://buggyandbuddy.com/weaving-with-kids-using-ribbons-and-fabric/">homemade loom</a> project. Hot glue four popsicle sticks together in a square, then tie string across the length to get started. You can give your kids a basket with various pieces of ribbon, yarn, and string to spark their creativity.</p> <h2>3. Workouts</h2> <p>Looking for exercise motivation? Try this <a href="http://backtoherroots.com/2012/08/09/pinterest-challenge-popsicle-stick-workout-jar/">workout jar</a> full of colorful popsicle sticks that tell you exactly how to move. Quickie workouts could mean two sticks completed. When you have time for sweating, challenge yourself to do five or more!</p> <h2>4. Entertainment</h2> <p>Take this same idea and make a <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.com/2014/07/washi-tape-summer-boredom-buster-jars/">boredom busting jar</a>. You can use our <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/20-cheap-fun-things-to-do-this-summer">summer bucket list</a> to get inspiration for family friendly ideas or come up with your own. Then write them down on the sticks, decorate, select your activity, and enjoy.</p> <h2>5. Journal</h2> <p>This <a href="http://inmyblueroom.blogspot.com/2014/07/popsicle-stick-notebook-with-twinery.html">stick journal</a> would make a fun book for kids and adults alike. If you're not into bookbinding, you can just adhere the popsicle sticks to a simple notebook. Then embellish anyway you like to make it personal.</p> <h2>6 Doll House</h2> <p>I'm already drafting the plans to make my daughter a <a href="http://melissagoodsell.typepad.com/day_to_day/2008/11/the-little-popsicle-house.html">popsicle stick doll house</a>. All you need are the sticks and hot glue. Older kids might be able to tackle this project by themselves. Arrange sticks to make the walls, room dividers, and then roof. Leave one side open for play.</p> <h2>7. Frame</h2> <p>Display your life's memories with this <a href="https://diyfamily.wordpress.com/2009/10/30/popsicle-stick-photo-frame/">photo frame</a> made entirely of popsicle sticks. After you download the <a href="https://diyfamily.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/photo-frame.pdf">free instructions</a>, you'll assemble the sticks and leave room for the photo. The rest is just gluing and dry time, you can orient the frame horizontally or vertically.</p> <h2>8. Wall Art</h2> <p>I cannot believe this <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/create-wall-art-from-popsicle-128336">gorgeous piece of artwork</a> is made from popsicle sticks. You can replicate the look by dying or painting sticks different colors and gluing them to a backing (styrofoam would work) for added stability. Play around with colors and patterns for a unique look. The best part? Your whole family can help.</p> <h2>9. Dolls</h2> <p>When your child gets bored of the same old toys, try making these <a href="http://mollymoocrafts.com/craft-stick-dolls/">craft stick dolls</a>. You can draw faces and clothing onto the sticks with markers. Make them even more beautiful with colorful washi tape or stickers. What a great rainy day activity!</p> <h2>10. Chandelier</h2> <p>No, really. You can make a <a href="http://boredandcrafty.com/?p=4574">popsicle stick chandelier</a>. You'll need three wooden embroidery hoops of different sizes. Then glue sticks onto each hoop and let dry before assembling. You may not want to swing by this chandelier, but it will surely be a conversation piece.</p> <h2>11. Toy</h2> <p>Here's a last-minute gift for a child's birthday party: <a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/stick-art-kit-with-free-printables/">Stick art kit</a>. All you need are jumbo popsicle sticks and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002IXGUAQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B002IXGUAQ&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wisbre03-20&amp;linkId=C44AZVOE3YV3TUN6">round Velcro stickers</a>. Put the stickers on the sticks (25 to be exact), then package them up in a pretty bag with the free printable tag. Kids will create shapes for hours with them.</p> <p><em>What cool things have you made with popsicle sticks?</em></p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!</h2> <div align="center"><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="above" data-pin-tall="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2F11-cool-uses-for-popsicle-sticks&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2F11%2520Cool%2520Uses%2520for%2520Popsicle%2520Sticks.jpg&amp;description=11%20Cool%20Uses%20for%20Popsicle%20Sticks"></a></p> <script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></div> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/11%20Cool%20Uses%20for%20Popsicle%20Sticks.jpg" alt="11 Cool Uses for Popsicle Sticks" width="250" height="374" /></em></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/5015">Ashley Marcin</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/11-cool-uses-for-popsicle-sticks">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-8"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/13-scariest-halloween-frights-you-can-make-from-trash">13 Scariest Halloween Frights You Can Make From Trash</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/make-your-own-moon-sand-dirt-cheap">Make Your Own Moon Sand, Dirt Cheap</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/12-cute-ways-to-upcycle-shoeboxes">12 Cute Ways to Upcycle Shoeboxes</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/15-awesomely-fun-toys-you-can-diy">15 Awesomely Fun Toys You Can DIY</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/15-more-cheap-and-easy-diy-toys-kids-will-love">15 More Cheap and Easy DIY Toys Kids Will Love</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> DIY arts craft sticks creative inspiration popsicle sticks toys Tue, 28 Jul 2015 17:00:13 +0000 Ashley Marcin 1505743 at https://www.wisebread.com 6 Best Cities for Frugal Lovers of the Arts https://www.wisebread.com/6-best-cities-for-frugal-lovers-of-the-arts <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/6-best-cities-for-frugal-lovers-of-the-arts" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/art_lovers_000024031897.jpg" alt="Frugal art lovers enjoying an art show in the city" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Sure, booming coastal metropolises like New York or San Francisco have well-deserved reputations as hotbeds for the arts. But unless you're really successful, or willing to live like an actual starving artist, it's costly and difficult to enjoy all they have to offer. Here are six lower-cost, but equally artistic cities you might enjoy.</p> <h2>1. Detroit, Michigan</h2> <p>While it's true that Detroit's economy has experienced some difficulty, it's not all bad news: Cheap rent and low-cost buildings are a great opportunity for young upstarts with creative ambition. Detroit is in the stage of mass vacancies and lack of jobs (think Berlin, Warsaw, Prague, or New York City in the 70s), which will almost inevitably lead to its revival. Artists are <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/11/travel/as-detroit-flounders-its-art-scene-flourishes.html?_r=1">moving to Detroit</a> in flocks, and the city is paying them to revitalize its urban core.</p> <h2>2. Tucson, Arizona</h2> <p>Want a place to live that even hipper-than-thou <a href="http://www.sfchronicle.com/travel/article/Hip-little-Tucson-heats-up-4484163.php?t=69177aa32f">San Francisco calls hip</a>? This is your town. The youth population has turned downtown Tucson into a walkable paradise of shops, restaurants, and a great art scene with <a href="http://hotelcongress.com/">Hotel Congress</a> as its beating heart. Comedians, fine art, and theatre are all flourishing here. Plus, low average monthly rents mean you can afford to experience this desert beauty for yourself.</p> <h2>3. Columbus, Ohio</h2> <p>Columbus is a great model for the rest of Ohio: lots of small businesses combined with a thriving creative class. The <a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/life_and_entertainment/2015/03/16/not-starving.html">Short North Art District</a> is a mecca for the hip and creative, while COSI Columbus, Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio Craft Museum are brilliant examples of the great art Columbus has to offer. Oh, and cheap rent, anyone?</p> <h2>4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania</h2> <p>Pittsburgh has happily become the less pretentious &quot;Portland of the Rust Belt.&quot; Local young people are now choosing to stay in Pittsburgh, and new people are flocking here for great, cheap housing and an opportunity to grow their creative endeavors with low risk. The <a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2014/12/how-the-cultural-arts-drove-pittsburghs-revitalization/383627/">extensive art scene</a>, with favorites like Mattress Factory, Unsmoke Systems, and Industrial Arts Co-Op, are drawing more budget-conscious artists every day.</p> <h2>5. Buffalo, New York</h2> <p>While many upstate New York natives historically moved to NYC, many Millennials now seem to be leaving NYC to return upstate. And their <a href="http://gothamist.com/2015/01/28/millennials_buffalo.php">first choice is Buffalo</a>, another rust belt town that's been in resurgence for years. Artists and other creative small business owners are taking their work to Buffalo to enjoy the great artisanal coffee, beer, and food while admiring the proliferating arts scene anchored by two excellent museums &mdash; the Burchfield Penney and the Albright Knox.</p> <h2>6. North Adams, Massachusetts</h2> <p>Another industrial town that's got it mojo back, North Adams is booming again thanks in part to its <a href="http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2013/10/18/north-adams-rebounds-with-art-education/ZtAmWawaWg6NwnnvyZErZP/story.html">creative youth population</a>. A happening arts scene includes 21 galleries and museums in downtown alone, plus Mass MoCA, which is one of the largest museums in the world. With rents as averaging as little as $450/month in some areas, how can you not have extra time and money to see it all?</p> <p><em>Which other lower-cost cities have strong arts scenes?</em></p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this post? Pin it!</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2F6-best-cities-for-frugal-lovers-of-the-arts&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2F6%20Best%20Cities%20for%20Frugal%20Lovers%20of%20the%20Arts_0.jpg&amp;description=6%20Best%20Cities%20for%20Frugal%20Lovers%20of%20the%20Arts" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above" data-pin-color="red" data-pin-height="28"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_red_28.png" alt="" /></a> </p> <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script type="text/javascript" async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/6%20Best%20Cities%20for%20Frugal%20Lovers%20of%20the%20Arts_0.jpg" width="250" height="374" alt="" /></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/5153">Amanda Meadows</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/6-best-cities-for-frugal-lovers-of-the-arts">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-3"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-ways-to-do-la-on-the-cheap">10 Ways to Do LA On the Cheap</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/25-things-to-never-pay-full-price-for">25 Things to Never Pay Full Price For</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-must-see-museums-in-the-us">10 Must-See Museums in the U.S.</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/retire-for-half-the-cost-in-these-5-countries">Retire for Half the Cost in These 5 Countries</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/how-i-successfully-gambled-in-las-vegas-without-losing-my-shirt">How I Successfully Gambled in Las Vegas Without Losing My Shirt</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Entertainment Travel arts cheap cities cities creative galleries museums Wed, 08 Apr 2015 21:00:09 +0000 Amanda Meadows 1372996 at https://www.wisebread.com Wise Bread Reloaded: Hack Your Creativity With a Trick the Yogis Use (Plus Scores More From the Archives) https://www.wisebread.com/wise-bread-reloaded-hack-your-creativity-with-a-trick-the-yogis-use-plus-scores-more-from-the-archiv <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/wise-bread-reloaded-hack-your-creativity-with-a-trick-the-yogis-use-plus-scores-more-from-the-archiv" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/middle-aged-man-thinking-181673735-small.jpg" alt="thinking" title="thinking" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Need some clever ideas for gifts or entertaining for the upcoming holidays? Take a moment to meditate.</p> <p>Scientists at Leiden University in the Netherlands found that a few moments of quiet <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141028082355.htm">&quot;Open Monitoring&quot; meditation prior to a brainstorming</a> test helped study subjects generate more ideas. Open Monitoring meditation is meditation open to ongoing sensation and experience and not focused on a single thought or feeling. Experienced meditators and novices both benefitted from the practice.</p> <p>If meditation is not your thing, Wise Bread has lots more ideas about how to generate more &mdash; and better &mdash; ideas. Read on, and that get brainstorming!</p> <h2>Relaxing Is Like Meditation, Isn't It?</h2> <p><img width="605" height="340" alt="" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5123/thinking-76750107.jpg" /></p> <p>Sarah Winfrey tells us how to boost creativity with <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/boost-your-creativity-9-surprising-ways-to-generate-new-ideas?ref=classicwb">9 Surprising Ways to Generate New Ideas</a>. First on the list? Relax!</p> <h2>Good Ideas Come in Bunches</h2> <p><img width="605" height="340" alt="" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5123/605x340x6130623650_a509ab0228_z.jpg" /></p> <p>Not to be outdone by Sarah's nine surprises, Mikey Rox shares <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/25-ways-to-boost-creativity?ref=classicwb">25 Ways to Boost Creativity</a>. Number 10 I wonder about (seems like more of a time sink than a brainstorming tool), and Number 7 is proven, but only in moderation.</p> <h2>Make Time for Creativity</h2> <p><img width="605" height="340" alt="" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5123/605x340x3567817729_e2d7f4f937_z.jpg" /></p> <p>Creativity takes time! In our hurry up and be late anyway hectic lives, who has time to ponder up new ideas? You do, if try one or more of the <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/15-tested-tips-for-creative-efficiency?ref=classicwb">15 Tested Tips for Creative Efficiency</a> that Annie Mueller dreamed up.</p> <h2>Rely on Routine</h2> <p><img width="605" height="340" alt="" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5123/3677668647_622b774303_z.jpg" /></p> <p>Annie Mueller has another unique suggestion for boosting creativity &mdash; stop trying so hard to be creative all the time and start relying on routine and habit, especially for the mundane. That's <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/how-less-creativity-can-make-you-more-creative?ref-classicwb">How Less Creativity Can Make You More Creative</a>.</p> <h2>Go for a Walk</h2> <p><img width="605" height="340" alt="" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5123/605x340xpet-3847512-small_0.jpg" /></p> <p>Writers throughout the ages have commented on the effect a good walk has on their creativity. Wise Bread writer Tara Struyk comments on walking and creativity, too, in <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/25-reasons-why-you-should-take-a-walk?ref=classicwb">25 Reasons You Should Take a Walk</a> (see Number 6 and Number 21).</p> <p><em>What do you do to generate ideas and get more creative? Please share in comments!</em></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/943">Lars Peterson</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/wise-bread-reloaded-hack-your-creativity-with-a-trick-the-yogis-use-plus-scores-more-from-the-archiv">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-7"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/14-things-you-should-do-when-you-move-to-a-new-town">14 Things You Should Do When You Move to a New Town</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/51-uses-for-coca-cola-the-ultimate-list">51 Uses for Coca-Cola – the Ultimate List</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/dont-panic-do-this-if-your-identity-gets-stolen">Don&#039;t Panic: Do This If Your Identity Gets Stolen</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-tips-for-camping-cooking">10 Tips for Camping Cooking</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-diy-dog-toys-you-can-make-for-pennies">10 DIY Dog Toys You Can Make for Pennies</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Life Hacks creative ideas new ideas problem-solving wise bread reloaded Sat, 01 Nov 2014 11:00:05 +0000 Lars Peterson 1248609 at https://www.wisebread.com Best Money Tips: Creative Ways to Say Thank You https://www.wisebread.com/best-money-tips-creative-ways-to-say-thank-you <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/best-money-tips-creative-ways-to-say-thank-you" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/drinking-coffee-4651019-small.jpg" alt="coffee with heart" title="coffee with heart" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="141" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Welcome to Wise Bread's <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/topic/best-money-tips">Best Money Tips</a> Roundup! Today we found some stellar articles on creative ways to say thank you, signs you're over your job, and how to eat vegetarian on the cheap.</p> <h2>Top 5 Articles</h2> <p><a href="http://christianpf.com/9-creative-ways-to-say-thank-you/">9 Creative Ways To Say Thank You</a> &mdash; Next time you want to thank someone, consider doing it with food or a video. [Christian PF]</p> <p><a href="http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2013/08/28/4-signs-youre-over-your-job-5-things-you-can-do-about-it/">4 signs you're over your job &amp; 5 things you can do about it</a> &mdash; You may be over your job if you don't think getting fired would be a bad thing. [Get Rich Slowly]</p> <p><a href="http://www.fivecentnickel.com/2013/08/26/how-to-eat-vegetarian-on-the-cheap/">How to eat vegetarian on the cheap</a> &mdash; If you want to eat vegetarian on the cheap, learn to recognize ripe fruits and veggies. [Five Cent Nickel]</p> <p><a href="http://sweatingthebigstuff.com/the-5-worst-ways-to-save-money/">The 5 Worst Ways to Save Money</a> &mdash; Falling prey to consumer traps is one of the worst ways to save money. [Sweating the Big Stuff]</p> <p><a href="http://barbarafriedbergpersonalfinance.com/should-i-trade-my-car/">Should I Trade In My Car?</a> &mdash; Consider trading in your car if you can negotiate an excellent price on a new car or you can sell your old car yourself and get a better price than you would from a dealer. [Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance]</p> <h2>Other Essential Reading</h2> <p><a href="http://parentingsquad.com/walking-riding-and-driving-to-class-back-to-school-safety-tips-for-families">Walking, Riding, and Driving to Class: Back to School Safety Tips for Families</a> &mdash; If your child walks to school, make sure they are implementing the buddy system. [Parenting Squad]</p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/All--One-Laundry-Bombs-31354476">All-in-One Laundry Bombs</a> &mdash; Did you know you can make your own laundry bombs for just a few dollars? [PopSugar Smart Living]</p> <p><a href="http://lifehacker.com/how-can-i-learn-to-dress-better-1215111190">How Can I Learn to Dress Better?</a> &mdash; To dress better, start by performing a wardrobe audit. [Lifehacker]</p> <p><a href="http://www.freemoneyfinance.com/2008/05/three-factors-t.html">Three Factors that Reduce a Home's Value</a> &mdash; Foreclosures and environmental threats can reduce a home's value. [Free Money Finance]</p> <p><a href="http://www.carefulcents.com/makes-a-brand-memorable/">What Makes a Brand or Restaurant So Memorable?</a> &mdash; Brands or restaurants that have an unusual take on the same old stuff tend to be more memorable. [Careful Cents]</p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/902">Ashley Jacobs</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/best-money-tips-creative-ways-to-say-thank-you">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-4"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/51-uses-for-coca-cola-the-ultimate-list">51 Uses for Coca-Cola – the Ultimate List</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/chinese-proverbs-about-money-and-personal-finance">Chinese Proverbs About Money and Personal Finance</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/do-you-practice-math-when-you-leave-a-tip">Do You Practice Math When You Leave a Tip?</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-tips-to-avoid-watching-a-crappy-movie">7 tips to avoid watching a crappy movie.</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-spectacular-uses-for-that-lone-can-of-fruit">8 Spectacular Uses for that Lone Can of Fruit</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> General Tips best money tips creative thank you tips Fri, 30 Aug 2013 10:00:29 +0000 Ashley Jacobs 981616 at https://www.wisebread.com Best Money Tips: Free Activities to Get Your Creative Juices Flowing https://www.wisebread.com/best-money-tips-free-activities-to-get-your-creative-juices-flowing <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/best-money-tips-free-activities-to-get-your-creative-juices-flowing" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/relax-248232-small.jpg" alt="woman" title="woman" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Welcome to Wise Bread's <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/topic/best-money-tips">Best Money Tips</a> Roundup! Today we found some fantastic articles on free activities to get your creative juices flowing, what to do if you lose your job, and talking about money with your honey.</p> <h2>Top 5 Articles</h2> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/Free-Activities-Get-You-Motivated-31040060">90 Free Activities to Get Your Creative Juices Flowing</a> &mdash; Get your creative juices flowing by joining Instagram or going to a free concert. [PopSugar Smart Living]</p> <p><a href="http://genxfinance.com/i-lost-my-job-now-what/">I Lost My Job, Now What?</a> &mdash; If you lost your job, remember that a good head hunter is your best friend. [Generation X Finance]</p> <p><a href="http://ptmoney.com/how-to-talk-about-money-with-your-honey/">How to Talk About Money with Your Honey</a> &mdash; When talking about money with your significant other, determine your goals and values together. [PT Money]</p> <p><a href="http://andthenwesaved.com/selling-body-parts-for-cash/">Your Body is a Goldmine (If You So Choose) - Selling Body Parts For Cash</a> &mdash; Did you know you can make $20-$60 for donating your plasma? [And Then We Saved]</p> <p><a href="http://freefrombroke.com/textbooks-for-less/">10 Tricks to Get Cheaper Textbooks (Because Tuition is Expensive Enough!)</a> &mdash; Get cheaper textbooks by renting books or go half in with another student. [Free From Broke]</p> <h2>Other Essential Reading</h2> <p><a href="http://www.girlsjustwannahavefunds.com/power-couples-mixing-business-love/">Mixing Business + Love: Is This Possible?</a> &mdash; Does the concept of being a &quot;power couple&quot; appeal to you? You must be able to have good communication and have fun with your significant other if you want to be a successful &quot;power couple.&quot; [Girls Just Wanna Have Funds]</p> <p><a href="http://www.narrowbridge.net/important-investment-accounts-you-should-have/">Important Investment Accounts You Should Have</a> &mdash; It is important to have an individual investment account or a traditional IRA. [NarrowBridge Finance]</p> <p><a href="http://moneysmartlife.com/assets-keep-bankruptcy/">What Assets Can You Keep in a Bankruptcy?</a> &mdash; If you file for bankruptcy, you can keep your retirement assets. [Money Smart Life]</p> <p><a href="http://cashmoneylife.com/are-you-ready-to-work-from-home/">Are You Really Work from Home Material?</a> &mdash; To figure out if you are work from home material, identify how you deal with distractions. [Cash Money Life]</p> <p><a href="http://parentingsquad.com/node/2354">5 Ways to Keep your Baby Cool at the Beach</a> &mdash; Cooling towels are a great way to keep your baby cool at the beach. [Parenting Squad]</p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/902">Ashley Jacobs</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/best-money-tips-free-activities-to-get-your-creative-juices-flowing">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-5"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/20-cheap-fun-things-to-do-this-summer">20 Cheap, Fun Things to Do This Summer</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-common-weekend-money-traps-and-how-to-avoid-them">8 Common Weekend Money Traps (And How to Avoid Them)</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-more-hobbies-you-can-start-for-free">10 More Hobbies You Can Start for Free</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-ways-to-keep-boredom-from-destroying-your-budget">8 Ways to Keep Boredom from Destroying Your Budget</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-free-things-that-just-arent-worth-it">10 Free Things That Just Aren&#039;t Worth It</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Frugal Living activities best money tips creative free Tue, 06 Aug 2013 09:48:45 +0000 Ashley Jacobs 981064 at https://www.wisebread.com Being routinely creative https://www.wisebread.com/being-routinely-creative <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/being-routinely-creative" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/forest-steps.jpg" alt="Steps on a forest trail" title="Forest Steps" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="263" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>It might seem like creativity would flourish best in the absence of any constraining routine.&nbsp; In fact, the opposite is true:&nbsp; Having a routine is very useful for protecting your creativity.</p> <p>Most people have the outline of a routine provided for them--they get up, they go to work or school, they come home, they go to bed.&nbsp; This sort of rhythm provides a useful constraint on your routine--perhaps you shower before work, run errands on the way home, mow the lawn on the weekend.&nbsp; If you're going to do any sort of creative work, you need to carve out a chunk of time somewhere in that schedule.&nbsp; That isn't easy, but at least it's clear what you need to do.</p> <p>If you don't have a schedule imposed by something external (such as school or a job), you might imagine that you're in a superior position to give your creativity free rein.&nbsp; For most people, though, it doesn't work out that way.</p> <p>It might seem like creativity would flourish best in the absence of any constraining routine.&nbsp; In fact, the opposite is true:&nbsp; Having a routine is very useful for protecting your creativity.</p> <p>Most people have the outline of a routine provided for them--they get up, they go to work or school, they come home, they go to bed.&nbsp; This sort of rhythm provides a useful constraint on your routine--perhaps you shower before work, run errands on the way home, mow the lawn on the weekend.&nbsp; If you're going to do any sort of creative work, you need to carve out a chunk of time somewhere in that schedule.&nbsp; That isn't easy, but at least it's clear what you need to do.</p> <p>If you don't have a schedule imposed by something external (such as school or a job), you might imagine that you're in a superior position to give your creativity free rein.&nbsp; For most people, though, it doesn't work out that way.</p> <p>Everybody has certain things that they need to do--pay the bills, buy the groceries, run the errands, etc.&nbsp; The problem is, there's no limit to those sorts of activities--they will grow to fill all your time, if you don't put limits on them yourself.</p> <p>If you don't have a work schedule to constrain them for you, it's very easy to let <strong>things that have to get done </strong>eat the time available for your creative pursuits.</p> <p>The solution is a routine.&nbsp; Just like someone with a job, allocate chunks of time for the things that have to be done, then prioritize.</p> <p>There are two keys:</p> <p>First, be sure to schedule a chunk of time for your creative work.&nbsp; It doesn't need to be a lot--it doesn't take a lot of time to be creative.&nbsp; Like everything else, if you allocate more time (and put it to good use), you can get more done.&nbsp; But also like everything else, you pretty quickly run into diminishing returns--you won't get twice as much done in six hours as you can in three, or even twice as much in two hours as in one (although large chunks of time do have a magic all their own).</p> <p>Second, be sure to restrict the &quot;things that have to get done&quot; to the time allotted for them.&nbsp; Since they &quot;have to get done,&quot; it's easy to let them encroach on the time you've set aside for other tasks.&nbsp; Don't let that happen.&nbsp; Make sure that you've got enough time to get the truly necessary things done (such as paying your bills), prioritize the other items, and ruthlessly defer anything that would spill over.</p> <p>Whether you have the outline of a routine provided for you (by something like a job, school, or family obligations), or you have to create the entire routine for yourself, having one is the only way to ensure that you can get both your creative work and the ordinary chores of daily living done.</p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!</h2> <div align="center"><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="above" data-pin-tall="true" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Fbeing-routinely-creative&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2FBeing%2520routinely%2520creative.jpg&amp;description=Being%20routinely%20creative"></a></p> <script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></div> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/Being%20routinely%20creative.jpg" alt="Being routinely creative" width="250" height="374" /></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/203">Philip Brewer</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/being-routinely-creative">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-6"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/25-simple-ways-to-change-up-your-routine-and-love-your-day">25 Simple Ways to Change Up Your Routine and Love Your Day</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/science-proves-it-you-need-to-take-a-vacation">Science Proves It: You NEED to Take a Vacation</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/10-ways-to-get-more-out-of-business-trips">10 Ways to Get More Out of Business Trips</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/how-habit-boredom-makes-you-abandon-your-goals">How Habit Boredom Makes You Abandon Your Goals</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/the-easy-way-to-cure-chronic-procrastination-you-should-try-now">The Easy Way to Cure Chronic Procrastination You Should Try Now</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Productivity creative creativity productive productivity productivity tips routine Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:59:49 +0000 Philip Brewer 2166 at https://www.wisebread.com Make 5 cheap ‘greeting cards’ that blow Hallmark away. https://www.wisebread.com/make-5-cheap-greeting-cards-that-blow-hallmark-away <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/make-5-cheap-greeting-cards-that-blow-hallmark-away" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/scissors.jpg" alt="" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="187" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Before I share with you my 5 great ways to make outstanding greeting cards, I'd like to rant about the four issues I have with store-bought greeting cards, like those produced by Hallmark in the millions.</p> <p>The first is the price. On average, $4-$5 for a folded piece of card with a stock photo and a humdrum message seems just a little overpriced to me. <br /> <br /> Second, the messages themselves are so generically impersonal, I have a hard time believing you couldn&rsquo;t write something better yourself that&rsquo;s really from the heart. That&rsquo;s why, if I am absolutely in a rush and have no time, I&rsquo;ll buy a blank card and write the verse myself.<br /> <br /> Third, the printing of the price on the back of the card. I know, I&rsquo;m cheap. But it&rsquo;s the first thing people look at when they&rsquo;re shopping around for cards. It&rsquo;s kind of a &ldquo;yes, I like that person&hellip;but not enough to buy this $5 card.&rdquo; Then, the reverse happens. That person casually glances at the back of the card you do buy and says &ldquo;hmm, they like me&hellip;but only enough to buy a $2.99 card. I&rsquo;ll be moving them down my speed dial list.&rdquo; It&rsquo;s like Hallmark is guilting us into buying the more expensive ones.<br /> <br /> Finally, it&rsquo;s the occasions now available. &ldquo;Congratulations on taking the toll road this morning&rdquo; or &ldquo;Sorry to hear your ex-wife got remarried.&rdquo; If you can think of it, there&rsquo;s a card for it. Argh. Sorry, rant over.<br /> <br /> Anyway, I&rsquo;ve always tried to make my own cards. My wife, my folks, my nieces, they&rsquo;ve all received them and they all love them to pieces. And guess what. They&rsquo;re cheaper, more original and way more impressive than anything you can get in the card aisle. So here are 5 cards you can make quickly and easily, with very little talent required. And I guarantee, you will be in that person&rsquo;s good books for months. (By the way, I&rsquo;m assuming everyone has things like scissors, glue, and the usual office supplies.)<br /> <br /> <strong>Number 1 &ndash; The message in a bottle. $2.15 - $3.15</strong></p> <p><img height="224" width="300" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/wisebread_imce/735867___message__.jpg" alt="Message bottle" title="message bottle" /><br /> <em>Shopping list - </em> <script type="text/javascript">spId="NUsC3MFARg6KCAfHbx3Kqg==/NTxkvscVQXSyd96_E9Z0PQ==";spLabel="Spring It!";spTextColor="#000099";</script><script type="text/javascript" src="https://my.springpadit.com/public/badge.js"></script> <br /> 1 glass bottle with cork - $2 (I got mine from Michaels, try any craft store) <br /> 1 piece of scrapbooking paper &ndash; 15 cents (choose a theme appropriate to the message)<br /> A few small shells from the beach &ndash; FREE (or, get a bag for $1 from a craft store)<br /> <br /> <em>Instructions - </em><br /> Do I have to spell it out? Ok. Take the cork out of the bottle, write a lovely message on the paper, put a few shells in the bottom of the bottle, roll up the paper, pop it inside and put the cork back on. Really simple. Do it on Valentine&rsquo;s Day or an anniversary, or a message to friends/relatives overseas. Trust me, it&rsquo;s a winner. <br /> <br /> <strong>Number 2 &ndash; The Sweetheart Note. $1.65 - $2.00</strong><br /> <img height="250" width="223" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/wisebread_imce/k9a.jpg" alt="sweethearts" title="sweethearts" /><br /> <em>Shopping list - </em><script type="text/javascript">spId="NUsC3MFARg6KCAfHbx3Kqg==/NTBQImW_QrWJHifRFz4zIA==";spLabel="Spring It!";spTextColor="#000099";</script><script type="text/javascript" src="https://my.springpadit.com/public/badge.js"></script><br /> 1 box of sweethearts candy &ndash; 50 cents <br /> 1 piece of scrapbooking paper &ndash; 15 cents (choose a theme appropriate to the message)<br /> 1 large envelope &ndash; Around $1<br /> Glue<br /> <br /> <em>Instructions - </em><br /> This one takes a little creative thinking, but c&rsquo;mon, you can do it. Take a box of sweethearts candy, tip them out onto the kitchen table and find the ones most appropriate to your message. Then, simply write your message on the paper, and replace certain words/phrases with candy sweethearts. For instance&hellip;.<em>you have always been <strong>my love</strong> and I will give you <strong>2000 hugs</strong> every day</em>&hellip;etc, etc. <br /> <br /> You have to glue the candy onto the paper, so it&rsquo;s inedible (unless you use sugar paste) but the message and the delivery is great. Just pop the finished masterpiece into your envelope and wait for the reaction. It&rsquo;s really only for couples, but any occasion between two lovers is fine&hellip;a marriage proposal, anniversary, Valentine&hellip;anything. <br /> <br /> <strong>3 &ndash; Photographic Memory - $1.00</strong><br /> <img height="209" width="300" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/wisebread_imce/252799_memories.jpg" alt="memory lane" title="memory lane" /><br /> <em>Shopping list - </em><script type="text/javascript">spId="NUsC3MFARg6KCAfHbx3Kqg==/NTkl9dQ0SjuVefPy-S19IQ==";spLabel="Spring It!";spTextColor="#000099";</script><script type="text/javascript" src="https://my.springpadit.com/public/badge.js"></script><br /> 1 photograph of something special &ndash; 20 cents <br /> 1 piece of card &ndash; 30 cents <br /> 1 envelope &ndash; Around 50 cents<br /> Glue<br /> <br /> <em>Instructions - </em><br /> It&rsquo;s the thought that counts on this one.<br /> Find a photograph of something very special between yourself and the recipient. Maybe it&rsquo;s a photograph of the bench where you had your first kiss. Maybe it&rsquo;s you as a young child. It&rsquo;s really anything that has sentimental value.<br /> <br /> Just glue that to the front of a folded piece of card, with a headline underneath like REMEMBER WHEN&hellip;<br /> With a touching message inside, you&rsquo;ll hit a home run every single time. It&rsquo;s personal, it&rsquo;s from the heart, and it&rsquo;s about 4 times cheaper than your average greeting card.<br /> <br /> <strong>4 &ndash; Origami 101 &ndash; 95 cents</strong><br /> <img height="225" width="300" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/wisebread_imce/paper_boat_sea.jpg" alt="Origami boat" title="Origami boat" /><br /> <em>Shopping list - </em><script type="text/javascript">spId="NUsC3MFARg6KCAfHbx3Kqg==/NTP7K4C3SwqQxfojfUZv9Q==";spLabel="Spring It!";spTextColor="#000099";</script><script type="text/javascript" src="https://my.springpadit.com/public/badge.js"></script><br /> 3 sheets of scrapbooking paper &ndash; 45 cents <br /> 1 envelope &ndash; Around 50 cents<br /> Origami pattern (free on the Internet or from your local library)<br /> <br /> <em>Instructions - </em><br /> Ok, you&rsquo;ll need a few practice runs at this one, which is why I&rsquo;ve included 3 sheets of paper in the budget. Scrapbooking paper is perfect because it&rsquo;s square, and almost all origami patterns start with a square sheet of paper.<br /> Find a pattern appropriate to your occasion (there are thousands of patterns out there), and also your skill level. Be realistic. I&rsquo;ve included a link to get you started <a href="http://dev.origami.com/diagram.cfm">here</a> . <br /> Practice on your two sheets of paper. You want to get this right. Then, write your message on the 3rd sheet of paper, fold it into your Origami shape and pop it into your envelope. The words on the paper will be visible but the message won&rsquo;t be readable until the recipient opens up the folded paper. It&rsquo;s a nice surprise. <br /> <br /> <strong>5 &ndash; The Candy Bar Wrapper - $1 &ndash; whatever you want to spend!</strong><br /> <img height="300" width="200" src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/wisebread_imce/chocolat_au_lait.jpg" alt="Choccy bar" title="Choccy bar" /><br /> <em>Shopping list - </em><br /> 1 sheet of scrapbooking paper &ndash; 15 cents <br /> 1 candy bar &ndash; Anywhere from 30 cents to as expensive as you want to go<br /> Pens, pencils, markers (or use a desktop printer)<br /> Scissors, glue.<br /> <br /> <em>Instructions - </em><script type="text/javascript">spId="NUsC3MFARg6KCAfHbx3Kqg==/NTqbHGByTcuRlgwwU7nUsg==";spLabel="Spring It!";spTextColor="#000099";</script><script type="text/javascript" src="https://my.springpadit.com/public/badge.js"></script><br /> This one requires the most skill if you want it to look authentic. I happen to have training in Photoshop and Illustrator so I&rsquo;m good to go. But that really doesn&rsquo;t matter. As far as I&rsquo;m concerned, anything that takes your thought and your time will be looked upon wonderfully by your loved one, even childish scrawl.<br /> So, pick your candy bar. Probably something the shape of a Hershey Bar to make life easy, but if you want to attack a Toblerone be my guest. Measure and cut your piece of paper to size, then write a nice message with a catchy headline. <br /> <br /> <em>A few ideas &ndash; </em><br /> A Giant Hershey&rsquo;s Kiss &ndash; <strong>COULD I GIVE YOU A KISS?</strong><br /> Any candy bar &ndash; <strong>I&rsquo;M SWEET ON YOU</strong><br /> <br /> Those ones just popped into my head, they are lame. And they are based around Valentine&rsquo;s Day, but this could work for a birthday or any other occasion. So, there you have it. 5 great cards, cheap as can be and full of thought and personality. I guarantee any one of these will make you look like a superstar. Have fun with them!</p><br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/17">Paul Michael</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/make-5-cheap-greeting-cards-that-blow-hallmark-away">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-7"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/20-valentines-day-gifts-for-10-or-less">20 Valentine&#039;s Day Gifts for $10 or Less</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-ways-valentines-day-picks-your-pocket">8 Ways Valentine&#039;s Day Picks Your Pocket</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/celebrate-love-not-money-with-these-recycled-valentines-day-gifts">Celebrate Love, Not Money, With These Recycled Valentine&#039;s Day Gifts</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/flashback-friday-104-sweet-ways-to-celebrate-valentines-day">Flashback Friday: 104 Sweet Ways to Celebrate Valentine&#039;s Day</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-gifts-you-can-get-through-bartering">5 Gifts You Can Get Through Bartering</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Frugal Living anniversaries birthdays cheap cards cheap gifts creative greeting cards greetings occasions Valentine's Day Mon, 02 Apr 2007 16:52:24 +0000 Paul Michael 435 at https://www.wisebread.com