Month: September 2015

Archives for September 2015

6 Hobbies that Science Says Will Make You Smarter

Intelligence is defined as the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills. Which by definition also implies that intelligence can be grown, cultivated, and developed. Scientists have indeed proven that we have the ability to increase our mental aptitude by feeding our minds through a variety of techniques and activities.

Christina Baldassarre, contributing writer for Entrepreneur, composed a list of six hobbies that will increase your mental acuity and are enjoyable as well.

1. Playing a musical instrument.

Playing musical instruments strengthens the corpus callosum that links the hemispheres of the brain by creating new connections. An improved corpus callosum helps with executive skills, memory, problem solving, fine motor skills, and overall brain function regardless of how old we are.

2. Reading.

It is no secret reading keeps your mind sharp. It also reduces stress and increases all three types of intelligence – crystallized, fluid and emotional – which translates into better understanding of how to make things happen and better managerial skills at work.

3. Exercise regularly.

Regular exercise is much more effective than the occasional work-out. When exercising regularly, the cells in the body are flooded with BDNF – a protein that helps with memory, learning, focus, concentration, and understanding. Some scientists speculate that sitting down for prolonged periods of time actually has the opposite affect and hinders our brain from working as well as it could.

4. Learning a new language.

Physiological studies have found that speaking two or more languages is a great asset to the cognitive process. The brains of bilingual people operate differently than single language speakers, and these differences offer several mental benefits. Fortunately, people who begin language study in their adult lives can still achieve the same levels of fluency as young learners and reap the same mental benefits too.

5. Work out your brain.

Sudoku, puzzles, riddles, board games, video games, card games, and similar activities increase neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity allows us to see things more clearly from different points-of-view and understand cause and effect of behaviors and emotions. We become aware of new patterns and our cognitive abilities improve.

6. Meditation

Meditation has been shown to improve both physical and emotional responses to stress. People who meditated regularly for six weeks showed less activation of their immune systems and less emotional distress when they were put in a stressful situation.

So, if you are looking to boost your mental aptitude, give a few of these hobbies a try. And if you are looking to give your business a boost, give Lakeside Executive Suites a try.

Lakeside Executive Suites is Weston’s premier workspace provider offering full service office space and virtual office solutions. Our first-class business center and professional support staff have everything your business needs. From executive meeting rooms to live phone answering service, mail receipt and mail forwarding services, reception service, and a prestigious business address…our amenities, location, and staff set us apart from other workspace providers.

Maximize your potential with Lakeside Executive Suites. To learn more visit us on the web at www.lesweston.com or call (954) 389-2511.

Source: Entrepreneur.com | The TelegraphWebMD

 

Inspiration from the Big Screen

Need an excuse to sit back, relax, and take in a good movie? Lakeside Executive Suites is about to give you four. As small business owners, we know you are always looking for ways to learn, develop, and further grow your business. Fortunately, inspiration and enlightenment aren’t limited to scholarly publications, journals, or diplomatic speeches. They can also be found on the big screen.

Recommended by Zach Cutler, contributing writer for Entrepreneur, here are 4 movies to enjoy from the comfort of your recliner, couch, or office chair that are sure to inspire any business owner.

1. Deli Man
Deli Man is a fun documentary about the rise of delis in the U.S. during the 1930s. Learn from Ziggy Gruber, a third-generation owner of the tremendously successful Kenny & Ziggy’s deli in Houston, about how to care for your business and customers. He is energetic, obsessed with high quality, and loves what he does. Overall, the movie illustrates the importance of passion and heart in business and shows that those who find their passion will find success.

2. Woman in Gold
Woman in Gold tells the story of an elderly Jewish woman who 50 years later tries to reclaim artwork taken from her family by the Nazis. She begins a long legal battle with the Austrian government to get her family’s paintings back. The movie depicts the struggle between knowing when to give up and knowing when to persevere. It is a story of strength and conviction.

3. The Wolf of Wall Street
The Wolf of Wall Street details the corruption of real-life stockbroker, Jordan Belfort. The film depicts how greed can affect your personal and professional success. This movie will remind you that there are no shortcuts to succeeding in business and in life. Take the time to grow a credible business built on solid values and ethics.

4. Boyhood
Boyhood chronicles the childhood of a young boy, and is the first to use the same actor as he aged over a 12-year period. The movie’s filmmaker, Richard Linklater, took on an industry first by carving out only 39 shooting days over 12 years. The movie was powerful and thought provoking. Take a risk to capture the attention of your consumers. Be bold, be remarkable, and be different.

Lakeside Executive Suites encourages you to find inspiration in print, film, or at our business center. Lakeside Executive Suites is Broward County’s leading choice for workspace solutions. Whether it’s a full-time office space, a virtual office, coworking space, or just a meeting room for the day, we offer a range of options and services designed to help you conduct business your way. Come work alongside other like-minded professionals and find inspiration in our breakroom, reception area, or even the office down the hall.

Come see why Lakeside Executive Suites is Weston’s premier office space provider and the ideal choice for your business. To learn more visit us on the web at www.lesweston.com or call (954) 389-2511.

Source: Entrepreneur.com

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