Hanging fine art in the workplace can enhance production and improve mental health and focus by creating a more visually stimulating and inspiring environment. Research suggests that exposure to art can reduce stress, increase creativity, and boost overall well-being, leading to greater productivity and concentration among employees. Additionally, aesthetically pleasing surroundings can elevate mood and morale, contributing to a more positive and conducive work atmosphere.
When choosing art for your office space, consider the following:
1. Theme and Style: Select art that complements the overall aesthetic and ambiance of your workspace. Consider whether you want abstract, contemporary, or traditional pieces.
2. Size and Scale: Ensure that the artwork fits appropriately within the space without overwhelming or underwhelming the environment. Consider the proportions of the walls and the viewing distance.
3. Color Palette: Choose artwork with colors that harmonize with the existing decor and furniture in the office. Consider whether you want vibrant, bold colors or more subtle, muted tones.
4. Message and Tone: Reflect on the message or tone you want the artwork to convey. It could be inspirational, calming, or thought-provoking, depending on the atmosphere you wish to create.
5. Budget: Set a budget for purchasing artwork and explore options within that range. Keep in mind that investing in quality pieces can have a long-lasting impact on the workspace.

​Regarding whether to use a local artist or an international artist, both options have their merits:
• Local Artist: Supporting local artists can foster a sense of community and contribute to the local art scene. It may also allow for a more personal connection with the artwork and the artist themselves.
• International Artist: Working with international artists opens up a broader range of artistic styles and perspectives. It can also introduce cultural diversity into the office environment, enriching the overall aesthetic experience.
Ultimately, the decision between a local or international artist depends on factors such as budget, artistic preference, and the desired impact on the workspace.
Image: "Wells Street Bridge" (Chicago, IL)
Fine art photography provided by: The Nolan Gallery (Chicago, IL)

In today’s dynamic job market, experiencing a job separation is more common than ever. While it can initially feel unsettling, (yes, change is tough!) it’s essential to view this period as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Here are some tips to help you navigate this transition with grace and purpose:

1. Take Time for Self: Use this period to reconnect with yourself. Engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenate your spirit. Whether it’s reading, hiking, or practicing mindfulness, prioritize self-care during this time.

2. Declutter Your Home: A clutter-free environment can promote clarity of mind and enhance productivity. Take this opportunity to declutter your home, creating a space that fosters peace and inspiration.

3. Consider a Sabbatical: If feasible, consider taking a sabbatical to explore new passions or recharge your batteries. Use this time to pursue personal projects, travel, or engage in volunteer work that aligns with your interests.

4. Reflect and Strategize: Take time to reflect on your career journey and consider how you can leverage your skills and experiences moving forward. Set clear goals and develop a strategy to achieve them.

5. Invest in Self-Care Activities: Prioritize activities that nourish your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, prioritize self-care as an integral part of your routine.

6. Explore Passion Projects: Use this time to explore passion projects or hobbies that you’ve always wanted to pursue. Whether it’s writing, painting, or starting a side business, indulging in your passions can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

7. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements. Ensure that your online presence accurately reflects your professional brand and potential employers can easily find you.

8. Join Networking Groups: Networking is essential in today’s job market. Join industry-specific networking groups, attend events, and connect with professionals in your field. Building meaningful relationships can open doors to new opportunities.

9. Utilize Your Skills for Teaching: Consider creating courses or workshops based on your expertise to teach others. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Udemy provide opportunities to share your knowledge and generate additional income.
​
10. Allow Yourself Time to Reacclimate: Transitioning to a new normal takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to adjust gradually. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and trust that you are moving towards a brighter future. Remember, a job separation is not the end but a new beginning. Embrace the opportunity for growth, exploration, and reinvention. Remember, it's not personal, it's business. So, make it YOUR business to make the next chapter of your life, the BEST chapter. With the right mindset and proactive approach, you can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. ​

In today’s dynamic job market, experiencing a job separation is more common than ever. While it can initially feel unsettling, (yes, change is tough!) it’s essential to view this period as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Here are some tips to help you navigate this transition with grace and purpose:
1. Take Time for Self: Use this period to reconnect with yourself. Engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenate your spirit. Whether it’s reading, hiking, or practicing mindfulness, prioritize self-care during this time.
2. Declutter Your Home: A clutter-free environment can promote clarity of mind and enhance productivity. Take this opportunity to declutter your home, creating a space that fosters peace and inspiration.
3. Consider a Sabbatical: If feasible, consider taking a sabbatical to explore new passions or recharge your batteries. Use this time to pursue personal projects, travel, or engage in volunteer work that aligns with your interests.
4. Reflect and Strategize: Take time to reflect on your career journey and consider how you can leverage your skills and experiences moving forward. Set clear goals and develop a strategy to achieve them.
5. Invest in Self-Care Activities: Prioritize activities that nourish your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, prioritize self-care as an integral part of your routine.
6. Explore Passion Projects: Use this time to explore passion projects or hobbies that you’ve always wanted to pursue. Whether it’s writing, painting, or starting a side business, indulging in your passions can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
7. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements. Ensure that your online presence accurately reflects your professional brand and potential employers can easily find you.
8. Join Networking Groups: Networking is essential in today’s job market. Join industry-specific networking groups, attend events, and connect with professionals in your field. Building meaningful relationships can open doors to new opportunities.
9. Utilize Your Skills for Teaching: Consider creating courses or workshops based on your expertise to teach others. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Udemy provide opportunities to share your knowledge and generate additional income.
10. Allow Yourself Time to Reacclimate: Transitioning to a new normal takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to adjust gradually. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and trust that you are moving towards a brighter future. Remember, a job separation is not the end but a new beginning. Embrace the opportunity for growth, exploration, and reinvention. Remember, it's not personal, it's business. So, make it YOUR business to make the next chapter of your life, the BEST chapter. With the right mindset and proactive approach, you can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. ​

​Early in my career, I’ve had the chance to travel and work abroad, and my experiences have varied. Sometimes the process has been seamless, while other times, I’ve encountered challenges in securing employment. One significant hurdle has been my non-citizenship status in those countries. Despite job openings, preference often leans towards nationals who can directly benefit the country financially through citizenship.
The next obstacle was the language barrier. While American influence is widespread worldwide, particularly in the corporate sphere, many companies expect candidates to be bilingual, trilingual, or at least proficient in the local language. This requirement alone could hinder your prospects of securing a job in another country.
Here are some tips I’ve utilized and passed on to others to help them succeed in securing a job in their desired country.
Securing a job in a foreign country involves several steps:
1. Research: Understand the job market, visa requirements, cultural norms, and living conditions in the country you’re interested in.
2. Update your resume: Tailor your resume to the standards of the country you’re applying to. Highlight relevant skills and experiences.
3. Networking: Use professional networking platforms to connect with professionals in your field who work or have worked in the country you’re targeting. Attend industry events and conferences if possible.
4. Apply for jobs: Utilize online job boards, company websites, and recruitment agencies to apply for positions that match your skills and qualifications.
5. Prepare for interviews: Practice common interview questions and research the company culture and values. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and experiences in detail.
6. Obtain necessary visas and permits: Research visa requirements for working in the country and ensure you have the necessary documentation to legally work there.
7. Consider language proficiency: If the country’s primary language is different from your own, consider improving your language skills to enhance your job prospects.
8. Be flexible and patient: Securing a job in a foreign country can take time, so be prepared to be patient and flexible in your job search.
9. Prepare for relocation: Once you’ve secured a job offer, make arrangements for housing, transportation, and any other logistics related to relocating to the new country.
10. Adaptation: Be open to embracing new cultures, customs, and ways of working in your new environment. Flexibility and adaptability are key to success in a foreign job market.
Additional Resource: for People Moving Abroad, Expatriates, Working Broad for International Jobs:
https://www.internationalcitizens.com/moving-abroad/from-usa.php
Language Apps:
DuoLingo - https://www.duolingo.com/
Babbel - https://get.babbel.com/
#WorkingAbroad #JobSearchChallenges #NonCitizenshipHurdles #LanguageBarrier #CrossCulturalEmployment #InternationalJobTips

​Early in my career, I’ve had the chance to travel and work abroad, and my experiences have varied. Sometimes the process has been seamless, while other times, I’ve encountered challenges in securing employment. One significant hurdle has been my non-citizenship status in those countries. Despite job openings, preference often leans towards nationals who can directly benefit the country financially through citizenship.
The next obstacle was the language barrier. While American influence is widespread worldwide, particularly in the corporate sphere, many companies expect candidates to be bilingual, trilingual, or at least proficient in the local language. This requirement alone could hinder your prospects of securing a job in another country.
Here are some tips I’ve utilized and passed on to others to help them succeed in securing a job in their desired country.

Securing a job in a foreign country involves several steps:

1. Research: Understand the job market, visa requirements, cultural norms, and living conditions in the country you’re interested in.

2. Update your resume: Tailor your resume to the standards of the country you’re applying to. Highlight relevant skills and experiences.

3. Networking: Use professional networking platforms to connect with professionals in your field who work or have worked in the country you’re targeting. Attend industry events and conferences if possible.

4. Apply for jobs: Utilize online job boards, company websites, and recruitment agencies to apply for positions that match your skills and qualifications.

5. Prepare for interviews: Practice common interview questions and research the company culture and values. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and experiences in detail.

6. Obtain necessary visas and permits: Research visa requirements for working in the country and ensure you have the necessary documentation to legally work there.

7. Consider language proficiency: If the country’s primary language is different from your own, consider improving your language skills to enhance your job prospects.

8. Be flexible and patient: Securing a job in a foreign country can take time, so be prepared to be patient and flexible in your job search.

9. Prepare for relocation: Once you’ve secured a job offer, make arrangements for housing, transportation, and any other logistics related to relocating to the new country.

10. Adaptation: Be open to embracing new cultures, customs, and ways of working in your new environment. Flexibility and adaptability are key to success in a foreign job market.

Additional Resource: for People Moving Abroad, Expatriates, Working Broad for International Jobs:
https://www.internationalcitizens.com/moving-abroad/from-usa.php

Language Apps:
DuoLingo - https://www.duolingo.com/
Babbel - https://get.babbel.com/
#WorkingAbroad #JobSearchChallenges #NonCitizenshipHurdles #LanguageBarrier #CrossCulturalEmployment #InternationalJobTips