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How You can Take a New Approach to Wellness this New Year’s, pg. 12
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Contents
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com
About Us
Launched in March 2014, Rural Leader
Magazine, LLC is a digital publication with a mission to highlight every day people doing extraordinary things in business, education, music, community, art, sports, and leadership nationally and abroad. Rural Leader Magazine honors exemplary individuals on a variety of levels, such as the 20 under 20 Honors, 40 under 40 Honors, Best Small Town Restaurant, Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People, the Scholars of Collegiate Distinction, Fifty under Fifty, and the Eagle Elite Club.— Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent. Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermag.com Contact Us info@ruralleadermag.com editor@ruralleadermag.com ruralleadermagazine@gmail.com
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5 Need a career boost? Try an Accelerated Degree
12 How You can Take a New Approach to Wellness this New Year’s
7 Financial Wellness is Even More Critical as Many Americans Seek Personal Change
14 Five Ways to Celebrate Diverse Arts and Culture
8 How to Enjoy the Holidays without Overloading your New Year’s Resolutions 9 Three Trends Poised for Growth in 2022 and the Tech Startups Helping to Fuel Them COVER STORY 10 Steps to Help Small Businesses Emerge from COVID-19 Challenges
16 Five Strategies for a Successful Hybrid Workplace 17 Do you know the Difference between COVID-19 Testing Options? 19 Four ways to Kickstart a Wellness Routine, According to Health Experts 21 Seedlip: The NonAlcoholic Option for Your Dry January and Beyond
Editor’s Note Dear Readers, Inside this issue, there are a number of great articles about leadership best practices, building positive self-esteem and productivity! We hope you enjoy this issue. As always, I hope you enjoy this issue and continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google +, and LinkedIn. Thanks again for your continual support! Sincerely, Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
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Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@RuralLeaderMag.com—
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Need a career boost? Try an Accelerated Degree Amidst dramatic shifts in the national workforce and ever-changing job market, those in or entering their careers without formal education face an uphill challenge. In a recent survey, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that nearly half of the more than 800 occupations they analyze annually require a college degree. Those occupations at the bachelor’s or master’s degree level are now netting graduates about $36,000 more in median annual salary than those at an associate’s level or less - and this trend is likely to continue increasing. With such a wide wage gap, it’s clear that undergraduate and graduate degrees are profitable investments for employees looking to upskill or change careers and first-year students alike. However, the cost of these degrees and the time needed to complete them can still be a barrier. While taking additional courses in high school or transferring credits from prior collegiate experiences can help, not everyone can take advantage of these opportunities. Fortunately, innovative universities now offer an alternative: earn both degrees in less time. Arizona State University is leading the way by creating af4 RuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022
fordable 4+1 degree programs, allowing students to concurrently complete an undergraduate and graduate degree. The ASU Online 4+1 programs include degrees for in-demand fields such as information technology and health care. Students in any of these online programs are able to fast-track their degrees and accelerate their career potential by saving up to a year of master’s coursework and tuition. Is an accelerated degree program the next step in your career path? When evaluating your options, consider how much time these programs take to complete, the total cost and how they may affect your career outcomes. Time. Generally, it takes a minimum of four years to attain a bachelor’s degree and an additional two years to graduate with a master’s. An accelerated program allows learners to shorten the time it takes to attain either of these degrees. ASU Online, for instance, combines undergraduate and graduate coursework during senior year for dual credit, so a student receives both degrees in five years. This process isn’t exclusive to first-time-in-college students. Transfer students can also benefit from an accelerated degree program. They can complete these GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 5
Financial Wellness is Even More Critical as Many Americans Seek Personal Change
degrees even faster by working with their academic counselor to chart a plan for which courses they need to take to be on track with an accelerated program. What’s more, the pace and structure of online programs allow learners to maintain employment while they get their degree. Earning while learning is especially advantageous to master’s degree students who are less likely to receive grant aid, fellowships or tuition waivers than undergraduates and doctoral students. Career outcomes. Looking to the future, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects to add the most jobs in 2020-2030 in industries where careers typically require an advanced degree. While some individuals may have a defined passion and clear career path, others may not know what credentials are necessary to pursue a position in their desired industry. Conducting research on what occupations are growing and what knowledge can help you enter those fields can yield beneficial results. When considering employment trends for 20202030, the bureau projects health care and social assistance will add the most jobs of all industries, with an estimated 3.3 million jobs.
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Technological advancements will also increase the long-term demand for computer-related occupations, especially with the rise of teleworking, which has expanded the need for computing infrastructure and IT security. ASU Online, aiming to make education accessible for students across the country, currently offers more than 30 accelerated 4+1 degree programs. Several programs can lead to careers in these rising industries, nursing, biological sciences, information technology, internet and web development, and global cybersecurity. No matter the career, the path to attaining necessary knowledge and experience can be rewarding. Research universities that offer the degree or certification program you’re looking for online, and that are specifically designed and have dedicated resources to work with online learners. To learn about ASU Online’s accelerated and traditional degree programs, visit ASUOnline.asu.edu.—
As we continue to navigate the economic impact of the pandemic, a Prudential Financial survey* finds more than half of Americans have made a significant change in their lives in the past 18 months, and three-quarters are considering life changes in the future; changes that include switching jobs, taking time off from work and retirement. According to Brad Hearn, Prudential’s president of Retail Advice and Solutions, for those considering making a major financial change, now isn’t necessarily the time to throw caution to the wind. “For many, the impact of the pandemic has been life changing, from income disruption, job loss and even reduced or eliminated employer contributions to insurance and retirement plans. Any financial decision needs to be carefully planned before executing,” said Hearn. To help get your financial status ready to support a significant change in your life, Hearn offers these tips: * Conduct a financial wellness assessment: Take advantage of free tools like this financial wellness assessment to help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. From retirement planning to household budgeting, you can see where your finances currently stand and how to plan ahead for the future.
* Set clear goals and make a plan: What do you plan to achieve with your money in the next few years and in the long run? Maybe it’s to plan for a secure retirement, maybe it’s to manage debt or it’s about upping your investing game. Set a detailed plan toward the goals. You can also tap a financial advisor for guidance and help. * Focus on building up your savings: Charting a new path doesn’t mean you should stop building savings. Quite the opposite. It can be even more important to establish a routine to fuel a savings account as you begin a new chapter in your life. Doing so will provide flexibility, relief and, in some cases, security should there be any unexpected twists and turns. These simple steps can help you establish a more secure foundation, whether or not you’re one of the many Americans embarking on a new path in 2022. *The survey was conducted on YouGov Direct: 1,200 U.S. adults 18+ were surveyed on Nov. 16, 2021, from 2:49 p.m.-4:45 p.m. Eastern time. Data is weighted on age, gender, education level, political affiliation and ethnicity to be nationally representative of adults 18+ in the United States. The margin of error is approximately 2.8% for the overall sample.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 7
Three Trends Poised for Growth in 2022 and the Tech Startups Helping to Fuel Them The past year has brought a flurry of changes for many people. Maybe you’ve embraced online shopping and want to start to incorporate meal planning into that experience. Perhaps you’ve gotten into selling things from the comfort of your home or you’re now working remotely with people around the world. Digital solutions meet modern needs so you can do these types of things successfully, whether you’re a consumer or an entrepreneur. Three of the top digital trends of 2022 showcase the growth of technology solutions by innovative startups focused on making life better. Trend 1: Simplified online grocery shopping. The food marketplace is an evolving space with two trends poised for continued growth: online grocery shopping and meal planning. Grocery Shopii is the solution for shoppers who want to integrate meal planning into a customized online shopping experience. Today, meal solutions are helping consumers tackle meal fatigue and save time. Not only are Shopii recipes curated by top bloggers, they’re hyper-personalized to each client’s preferences, offering suggestions that align with existing shopping habits. Plus, Grocery Shopii utilizes machine learning to expedite meal planning and online grocery shopping to 5 minutes or less. Grocery Shopii is free for shoppers and helps grocers provide a tailored experience, which in turn builds customer loyalty. Learn more at GroceryShopii.com. Trend 2: Interactive fashion resale marketplace. What people choose to wear defines who they are, and today more people than ever want to stand out in their own unique way. That’s why interest in vintage clothing, upcycled fashion, and handmade accessories is soaring, and Galaxy is connecting passionate sellers with engaged buyers.
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Galaxy is the first platform of its kind to fuse live shopping and fashion resale, creating a truly social, entertainment-geared shopping experience with sustainable fashion at its core. With Galaxy, shoppers can have conversations while buying, allowing them to make more informed decisions and understand the stories behind the pieces they’re browsing. Galaxy enables the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs to find and build their community, plus, unlike other platforms, takes no commission or fees. Visit Galaxy.Live for more information. Trend 3: Symbiotic solutions to labor needs and economic empowerment. The labor shortage crisis, the Great Resignation, diversity challenges - job economy topics continue to capture headlines. Companies of all sizes are struggling to fill roles with quality candidates who meet their needs. Meaningful Gigs is one solution that solves many issues that companies are facing today. This techpacked platform connects skilled African designers with companies seeking high-quality digital design work. Their vision is to create 100,000 remote skilled jobs in Africa by 2028. Meaningful Gigs provides companies with a way to tap into global diversity while also delivering critical design solutions for their businesses for creative, product and marketing teams. By supplying people in Africa with skilled jobs, the company focuses on continuous economic empowerment and socioeconomic advancement. Discover more at MeaningfulGigs.com. 2022 is sure to be a year of continued change as people increasingly rely on digital solutions. Explore these trends to see how they impact your life, and consider new technologies to meet your needs.—
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COVER STORY
Steps to Help Small Businesses Emerge from COVID-19 Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted small businesses across the country in numerous ways. From new health guidelines and supply chain woes to hurdles with hiring and retaining employees, weathering the dramatically altered business landscape continues to be challenging for small businesses. This has been especially difficult for small businesses of 100 employees or less. While the pandemic has affected each organization differently, navigating the tight labor market amidst the pandemic is a shared problem without a simple solution. “A close connection to an organization’s mission and a more personal work environment used to be enough for people to want to work at small businesses, but expectations have changed,” said Zarifa Reynolds, Head of Strategic Growth Markets & Small Business Segment at Guardian. “A mission-driven intimate work environment is no longer enough to attract talent and retain employees as they are looking for employers to provide them with a great place to work as well as provide resources to address their health, wealth and lifestyle needs.” This evolving reality for small businesses is highlighted in the 10th Annual Workplace Benefits Study from Guardian titled “Inflection Point: How Small Businesses are Emerging from COVID-19.” The report highlights some of the strategies small businesses should consider to help them attract and retain talent, including: Flexible work policies. The pandemic accelerated 10 RuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022
the trend for flexible work policies. Investing in collaborative technology and communicating regularly with employees helps maintain workplace connectivity and boosts productivity, whether a workforce is in-house, remote or hybrid. In fact, nearly six in 10 small firms plan to continue remote work in some capacity in the future. Continued agility as work cultures change is essential. Additionally, changing work dynamics during the pandemic has prompted small businesses to focus on disability programs and paid leave policies, including paid sick time. Offering flexible scheduling allows employees to adjust their work hours to accommodate their personal lives, such as for caregiving responsibilities, childcare needs, or personal health conditions. Voluntary benefits. Many small firms have faced revenue and staffing losses during the pandemic, yet overall have improved employee benefits. These important actions directly impact hiring and retention, making small businesses more competitive as they look to attract and retain talent. While small business owners might have ideas about noteworthy benefits to add, most are seeking strategic guidance from a benefits broker, consultant, or individual agent. Specifically, small business decisionmakers have leveraged the deep knowledge of industry professionals for guidance on voluntary benefits and technology solutions that will help them standout in the competitive marketplace for talent.
A notable trend within the small business segment is the growing interest in voluntary benefits, also known as supplemental health, which can either be a shared cost between employer and employee or paid solely by the employee. Voluntary life insurance products have been increasingly popular as employees seek to protect themselves and their families. Additional voluntary benefits such as accident insurance, hospital indemnity, and short- and longterm disability are also gaining traction among small businesses. Mental health and well-being. Nearly half (46%) of small firms offered a wellness program in 2021 compared to only 23% in 2018, showcasing a trend of small businesses prioritizing employee health and well-being. Most small firms also took some action to help improve employees’ physical (65%) and mental health (76%) during the pandemic. Some top wellness programs for small business employees include: * Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that offer a range of services such as mental health and substance abuse counseling, financial guidance, and legal advice. * Wellness initiatives that promote better nutrition, fitness, and overall health awareness. * Telehealth medical and dental consultations for
evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment through digital channels. * Mental health resources, such as access to counselors or meditation apps. Technology. Offering benefits has become increasingly important for small businesses to attract and retain employees, but many are overwhelmed by the complexity of the process and ensuring that their employees receive a good customer experience. This is especially true for organizations that don’t have a dedicated HR manager. Fortunately, technology can help overcome barriers. In addition to investing in technologies that support remote work functions such as employee collaboration and customer service, many small businesses are offering technologies for human resource functions as well. In fact, nearly all (96%) of small firms now outsource one or more HR functions to an external third party, including payroll (91%), benefits enrollment (78%) and ongoing benefits administration (75%). “Small businesses are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy, but the pandemic has hit them particularly hard. Sharing these insights on how small businesses have continued to support their employees by providing needed benefits has helped these businesses and their employees to thrive,” said Reynolds.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 11
How You can Take a New Approach to Wellness this New Year’s If you’re seeking ways to boost your well-being for the new year, consider taking a holistic approach. Don’t focus on one specific habit to conquer, but instead look at supporting the different systems within you - like your respiratory, immune, digestive and cardiovascular systems. A holistic approach focuses on those interconnected systems, not just aiming for a specific number on the scale. Registered dietitian nutritionist and certified yoga teacher Keri Gans, author of “The Small Change Diet” and an EpiCor® ambassador, offers tips to help you view wellness in a whole new way. “Find routines and practices that support your entire body,” advised Gans. “Think about how the exercises you choose, the habits you adopt or dietary choices you make support your well-being as a whole.” Here are three tips from Gans that can help revamp your wellness routine this year to focus on your whole self: 1. Move more and breathe. When you’re stressed, you take shallower breaths, which can reduce your oxygen intake. Deep breathing helps you take in more oxygen, which travels throughout your body 12 RuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022
and gives you more energy. According to Healthline.com, deep breathing can help relieve stress while supporting a number of your body’s systems. * Take “breathing breaks” daily, closing your eyes and taking a few slow breaths. * Practice guided meditation or mindfulness techniques using breathing. Try a meditation app to help you learn easy techniques. * Move more, daily. Steady walking or cycling promotes deeper breathing, as does more rigorous exercise. Aim for at least a half hour of moderate physical activity most days to get your heart pumping and oxygen circulating throughout your body. Regular physical activity also helps to reduce stress. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program. “Daily deep breathing and moving more helps you feel better, and has other positive benefits for your whole body, like potentially lowering your blood pressure,” said Gans. 2. Support your gut health. Gut health is vital for keeping your digestive system working as it should - and also supporting your immune system.
“The majority of immune cells originate from the gut, so your gut health influences your entire immune system,” explained Gans. Some foods can make a big difference when it comes to having a healthy gut microbiome, specifically fermented foods. “Fermented foods offer cultures - which are beneficial to live bacteria or microorganisms - plus metabolites and compounds that are produced by those cultures during the fermentation process,” explained Gans. “These metabolites are part of the foundation for a healthy gut microbiome.” These fermented foods help support your gut health: * Sourdough bread * Yogurt * Kombucha * Kefir * Sauerkraut “If you can’t include many of these foods in your diet, or you don’t like their taste, you can benefit your gut health by taking a supplement containing postbiotics, which have beneficial metabolites and compounds shown through research to support your health,” says Gans. For example, look for supplements containing the #1 postbiotic brand, EpiCor®, which is a first-of-its-kind whole food ingredient that taps the natural power of fermentation to help positively modulate the gut microbiome.
“You can think of EpiCor Postbiotic as a multivitamin for your immune system, which helps take care of your health every day,” said Gans. “Clinical studies have shown that it can help support your immune system for coping with everyday challenges.” MEpiCor postbiotic is found in a number of vitamin and supplement products, such as Healthy Origins EpiCor. For other products using EpiCor postbiotics, visit EpiCorImmune.com. 3. Improve the quality of your sleep. According to WebMD, deep, restorative sleep is crucial for resetting all of your body’s vital systems, from your brain to your immune system and more. To get more restorative sleep: * Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet * Stick to the same sleep schedule every day * Wind down by turning off devices an hour before bed “Just one positive change in your routine can have a domino effect,” said Gans. “Each action you take to support your wellness builds on the next. You may start noticing improvements in how you feel sooner than you think, which inspires you to do more.” Taking positive actions toward better health doesn’t need to be just a New Year’s activity. Taking time to care for your whole self throughout the year will pay dividends, all year long.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 13
Five Ways to Celebrate Diverse Arts and Culture No matter where you live, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the culture of diverse communities, if you know where to look. To show your support for multicultural artisans, performers and businesses, here are a few ideas to get you started. 1. Check out diverse artists in your neighborhood - and online. Do an internet search for art galleries in your area that showcase artists of color, then go and take a look at the work these artists are creating. You can also search for art fairs and festivals nearby that showcase multicultural artists and crafters that you can patronize. These kinds of events make for a great family outing, and you can usually find beautiful art, handcrafted gifts and home decor items. Many websites that sell artisan crafts will also highlight their minority-owned shops. Search the site or contact them to ask where you can find these artists to view their amazing creations. 2. Support arts programs for kids. Supporting local schools as well as extracurricular programs that provide all kids with opportunities to express themselves and explore their own heritage will have a positive impact on the future of art and culture in your community. You can help by volunteering, donating or simply being there as an advocate - attending events and 14 RuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022
applauding the efforts of kids and their educators. 3. Notice companies that actively celebrate minority-owned businesses and diverse cultures. Companies large and small are increasingly aware that consumers today want to support causes they believe in, as well as those that encourage artistic and cultural expression from people of color. This awareness is inspiring all kinds of initiatives to encourage the work of artists from diverse backgrounds. For example, Controlâ„¢ Prepaid Mastercard from Netspend found an exciting way to promote artistic expressions by partnering with diverse artists who have created unique art and are using the art on their prepaid cards. These artists are selected for not only the outstanding artistic quality of their work, but also their positive contributions to their cultures and communities. You can celebrate diversity in art by choosing a design from one of their available Artist Series card designs - and you’ll have a work of art in your wallet. For anyone looking for a financial tool that can help you to take control of your money, the Control Card is not only designed with its members’ needs in mind, but also their goals. You can order an Artist Series card at MyControlCard.com. 4. Buy from minority-owned businesses. More
companies than ever before are highlighting entrepreneurs of color, making it easier to find products that are created by multicultural entrepreneurs. Next time you shop, search for minority-owned businesses online, or look for categories like multicultural products from major retailers’ websites. For example, you can find minority-owned businesses to support by visiting the Control Card website at MyControlCard.com/buy-black/. 5. Champion ethnic restaurants. Another great way to tap into the culture of your own heritage - or others - is to visit local restaurants that introduce you to foods and traditions from myriad cultural backgrounds. Some of these venues also host music performances or art exhibitions that add to the richness of the experience dining there. Supporting minority-owned and ethnic restaurants also helps all of the people in their surrounding communities. Encouraging and participating in artistic and cultural events in your area, plus buying from minority-owned businesses, shows your support, celebrating these efforts and helping these artists and businesses grow for years to come.— IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR OPENING A CARD ACCOUNT: To help the federal government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the USA PATRIOT Act requires us to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens a Card Account. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: When you open a Card Account, we will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and your government ID number. We may also ask to see your driver’s license or other identifying
information. Card activation and identity verification required before you can use the Card Account. If your identity is partially verified, full use of the Card Account will be restricted, but you may be able to use the Card for in-store purchase transactions. Restrictions include: no ATM withdrawals, international transactions, account-to-account transfers and additional loads. Use of Card Account also subject to fraud prevention restrictions at any time, with or without notice. Residents of Vermont are ineligible to open a Card Account. The Controlâ„¢ Prepaid Mastercard is issued by MetaBank®, National Association, Member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Netspend is a registered agent of MetaBank, N.A. Certain products and services may be licensed under U.S. Patent Nos. 6,000,608 and 6,189,787. Use of the Card Account is subject to activation, ID verification, and funds availability. Transaction fees, terms, and conditions apply to the use and reloading of the Card Account. See the Cardholder Agreement for details. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Card may be used everywhere Debit Mastercard is accepted. © 2021 Netspend Corporation. All rights reserved worldwide. Netspend is the federally registered U.S. service mark of Netspend Corporation. All other trademarks and service marks belong to their owners.
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Five Strategies for a Successful Hybrid Workplace
The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the work lives of many, especially those working in offices. New challenges and opportunities are arising for both employees and employers in almost every industry. Many workers want to return to the workplace, but they also want to keep the benefits and flexibility of remote work. But getting a hybrid work environment to function correctly is a complex and difficult task. For leadership beginning to take on this challenge, here are some tips and approaches to consider for hybrid workplace success. Rethink the open plan. For many years, office environments trended toward a more open plan with individual workstations as well as collaboration areas. But as people return to the office today, these spaces need to shift. Collaboration spaces need to be open and flexible for quick meetings and connections. Meanwhile, individual workstations need more enclosed spaces to accommodate the privacy that people have become accustomed to while working from home. Connect digital and physical experiences. IT infrastructure and security are a crucial part of getting the hybrid-remote experience right for your employees both today and as configurations continue to evolve. Using a cloud technology, such as JumpCloud, allows your company to maintain order and security across all work environments. For more strategies for creating a secure, future-proof IT structure, JumpCloud offers a free book for IT professionals and administrators - “IT Necessities for a Distributed World: Building a Modern IT Infrastructure for Hybrid-Remote Work” by experts Ryan Bacon, Kim Crawley and Kate Lake. 16 RuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022
Adopt a ‘remote-first’ attitude. In a hybrid work environment, inequalities can quickly creep in. It can be easy for remote workers to feel left out or almost completely ignored. To solve this issue, keep your remote employees top of mind. For example, you might need to schedule more check-in meetings with remote employees since you are not bumping into them throughout the day. And when you plan meetings and events, always be thinking about the remote experience. Balance focus and collaboration time. As employees shifted to working from home full time, workplaces saw an average drop of 37% collaboration time, according to a 2020 report from Gensler Research Institute. As leaders attempt to re-boost collaboration, it’s important to remember that effective teamwork happens when there is balance in group work and individual focus time. People need time to process their ideas and execute on their assigned tasks. As a solution, talk to your employees about what works for them and be open to a fluctuation in working styles. Adapt to remote recruiting and onboarding. Recruiting and onboarding practices shifted to virtual during the pandemic and many HR decision-makers believe they continue this approach for its numerous benefits. Companies can now interview candidates from anywhere, which opens a wider pool of talent to pull from. It also provides the opportunity to create a more consistent onboarding experience. Follow these tips to ensure your organization implements a thriving hybrid work experience. The best policies are well thought out and consider every employee’s needs. To learn more about tools for a hybrid workplace, visit JumpCloud.com.—
Do you know the Difference between COVID-19 Testing Options? When you think about efforts to fight the spread of COVID-19, vaccinations, hand washing and masking likely come to mind. However, one important effort that must remain the first line of defense is effective testing. With the holiday season in full swing, we cannot let our guards down. Testing, combined with other defensive measures, is essential to keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe. Since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic in March 2020, medical experts and government leaders have worked together to make different types of testing options easily accessible to the public. You may not realize there are different types of tests, so what is available to you? The two main types of tests authorized for detecting COVID-19 are polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and antigen tests. Here is what you need to know about both: Antigen tests.If you have ever taken a rapid strep test or pregnancy test, antigen tests work similarly[1]. Also referred to as rapid tests or rapid antigen tests, these tests work by quickly identifying protein fragments from a virus - these are the antigens and providing test results in about 15 minutes[2]. Despite being fast, antigen tests can be less accurate than other testing options because they are less sen-
sitive, meaning that some people might incorrectly be told they don’t have the virus1. Because no special equipment is needed, antigen tests may be performed in various community settings or at home. This convenience has made antigen tests, particularly at-home options, popular when quick results are needed, as when returning to an office or preparing for an event like a vacation. However, there is more room for error when self-testing, as opposed to having a test administered by a trained professional2. Further, at-home antigen tests are most accurate if COVID-19 symptoms are present and may require the use of several tests to confirm a diagnosis[3]. It is also important to always follow the manufacturer’s directions. Antigen test overview. When to take it: When in need of results quickly Speed: Results usually available in 15 minutes Chance of user error: High Ease of use: Doesn’t require equipment or chemicals; easy to use at home or point of care Effectiveness on variants: Low PCR tests. PCR tests are also referred to as molecular tests, viral RNA tests or nucleic acid tests1. These require special equipment and are typically sent to a lab, with results often available within 24 hours, depending on location. Some PCR tests proGetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 17
Four ways to Kickstart a Wellness Routine, According to Health Experts
vide results in just 20 minutes, however, these tests are mostly available in healthcare environments, such as hospitals2. Why would someone use a test that takes longer to get results? The answer: accuracy. PCR tests have remained a touchstone in diagnostics due to their heightened accuracy over antigen tests1. They are highly sensitive and can detect very small amounts of virus genetic material in a sample, such as viral DNA1. These tests have a sensitivity of about 98%, much higher than comparative data for antigen tests1. This is why PCR tests can detect active infections nearly every time, and it is rare for someone uninfected to receive a positive test1. PCR test overview. When to take it: When in need of extremely accurate results Speed: Results usually take 24 hours; may require an appointment Chance of error: Low Ease of use: Requires equipment, chemicals and trained specialists; point-of-care options available but limited Effectiveness on variants: High The future of COVID-19 testing With vaccination rates increasing and booster shots recently becoming available, we are seeing some normalcy return to our lives. However, as restrictions ease, people are traveling more and 18 RuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022
starting to return to routine life activities, making people more vulnerable to infection. As the pandemic evolves and holiday gatherings commence, complementary testing options can make effectively screening for COVID-19 even easier. This may include combining antigen and PCR testing for identifying present COVID-19 infections, antibody tests for evaluating past exposure, and multiplex tests, which tests for more than one disease, such as flu and COVID-19. To learn more information about COVID-19 testing options, visit Roche Diagnostics Corporation’s storytelling hub.— [1] https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/whichcovid-test-is-accurate (Last accessed November 22 2021) [2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/expert-answers/covid-antibody-tests/faq-20484429 (Last accessed November 22 2021) [3] https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/thesmartest-way-to-use-rapid-at-home-covid-tests1/ (Last accessed November 22 2021)
When it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle, it’s the small decisions and changes that have a great impact on our individual wellness journeys. Wellness is not just one thing. In fact, maintaining a healthy lifestyle goes beyond just physical health and appearances, extending into areas like a person’s emotional, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing. To help bring out the healthiest, happiest version of ourselves, experts recommend addressing the whole person, mind, body, spirit and all. To help you kickstart a successful health and wellness routine rooted in a holistic approach, consider the following tips from these leading health industry experts: 1) Practice mindfulness: Starting your day with a focus on mindfulness can contribute to easier and relaxed moments that translate into better days mentally and physically. “I wake up every morning at 6 a.m. and meditate for 15 minutes,” says Kristin McGee, celebrity yoga instructor and mindfulness expert. Deep full breathing helps you anchor yourself in the present. “When we become aware of our breathing, we also calm our nervous system which helps us settle into a relaxed space and feel more awake and alive,” McGee explains. 2) Focus on immune health: What we put into our bodies is critical and incorporating ingredients to help support our immune system is just one way to help us feel our best year-round. There are many
ways to help support our immune function through nutrition, including incorporating nutrient-rich foods, such as oranges, carrots, red bell peppers and spinach, into your diet. These foods contain immune-supporting vitamin C - a nutrient synonymous with immune health. “A simple way to help support the immune system is with a dietary supplement,” registered dietician nutritionist Shana Minei Spence says. “In tandem with a balanced diet, I recommend the Emergen-C Immune+ dietary supplement, which is packed with high-potency vitamin C, as well as vitamin D and zinc, so it makes supporting the immune system easy and delicious.” 3) Choose your joy: When you’re having a busy day, it is important to not lose sight of the joys in your life. Mental health expert and self-care advocate Yasmine Cheyenne suggests creating a list of three to five things that bring you joy. “The joy list makes it easy for you to remember what brings you peace and ease, and empowers you to make those changes yourself,” Yasmine notes. Some things to include in a joy list can be going for a quick walk, playing games with family, watching a show or gardening. “Even when you’re having a great day, you can still turn to the joy list for a way to keep the goodness and positive vibes going,” Cheyenne notes. 4) Get moving: Staying active not only has a positive effect on your body, but on your immune health and overall wellness. There are many benefits when GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 19
it comes to sweating, including helping to improve focus, mood, productivity and confidence. Fitness expert and healthy habit builder Jennifer Cohen says treat movement like you would any other important meeting in your day. “Schedule exercise in your calendar or daily schedule like you would an important appointment - this helps us keep our commitment to movement,” says Cohen. Start off with these small steps and gradually increase your efforts toward building a routine that works best for you. With the above tips in mind, you
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will find that implementing quick and easy habits helps to make a big, lasting impact on your overall health. For more information about Emergen-C, please visit www.emergenc.com.—
Seedlip: The Non-Alcoholic Option for Your Dry January and Beyond If you’re choosing to follow a possibly over-inand traditional garden herbs including rosemary,
dulgent holiday season with a dry January, you’re not alone. Last year, YouGovAmerica reported that 15% of Americans planned to participate in the Dry January challenge, whether for health reasons or just a lifestyle reset - and the trend shows no sign of slowing down. This burgeoning lifestyle is showing permanence in consumer drinking choices. Nielson saw a 315% increase in online non-alcoholic beverage sales over the past year, according to Business Insider, which analysts predict will continue through 2022. But can you enjoy socializing without sipping on seltzer water or sugary soda all evening? That was the quandary faced by master distiller Ben Branson, founder of Seedlip - the pioneering spirit in the non-alcoholic category and global lifestyle brand. Disappointed by the taste of non-alcoholic cocktail options while out for dinner one night, Branson brainstormed ways to combine his passion for nature and family farming background with his desire for truly unique, great-tasting non-alcoholic spirits. His experimentation led to creating Seedlip, a oneof-a-kind non-alcoholic spirit that is calorie-, sugarand carb-free. A new non-alcoholic option. Seedlip is redefining the Dry January challenge by showing consumers the lifestyle choice doesn’t need to be “dry” or a “challenge” - nor does it mean abstaining from socializing! Seedlip distills ingredients sustainably derived from nature to create unique spirits to be enjoyed simply with club soda, ginger ale and a twist of lime, or as the basis of innovative, tasty non-alcoholic cocktails. Whether temporarily shifting from alcohol or practicing teetotalism, Seedlip makes implementing sustainable balance in one’s personal lifestyle possible by empowering all to explore sophisticated non-alcoholic alternatives to their favorite cocktails. Flavors from nature. Seedlip harvests specific combinations of flavors to create expressions that connect imbibers to nature and their roots. Each Seedlip blend is handcrafted with six carefully selected botanicals: * Seedlip Grove 42 is a bright citrus blend with a dry finish, made with bitter orange, blood orange, mandarin, lemongrass, lemon and ginger. * Seedlip Spice 94 features a warm, aromatic blend of allspice and cardamom with fresh citrus top notes to balance a long bitter finish. Other ingredients include cascarilla, oak, grapefruit and lemon. * Seedlip Garden 108 is a fresh, herbal blend of peas
thyme, spearmint, hay and hops. Where can you find these spirits? While good tasting non-alcoholic cocktail offerings were tough to find when Branson first started searching, today many restaurants have embraced the concept, with Seedlip leading the way. You can now find Seedlip spirits worldwide. For nights out with friends, Seedlip recently released a Seedlip Map featuring neighborhood bars, restaurants and hotels that offer its delicious non-alcoholic cocktails in cities across the U.S. The map’s launch will showcase locations in Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco and Chicago. Before going out, check the map at www.SeedlipDrinks.com/en-us/Locate-Seedlip/. How you can enjoy Seedlip at home. If you’re hosting at home or just enjoying a quiet night in, you can make your own tasty non-alcoholic cocktails, using your choice of Seedlip spirits in a variety of creative combinations. Try this Orange Blossom Highball recipe: Ingredients 2 ounces Seedlip Grove 42 1/2 ounce honey syrup 2 dashes orange blossom water 1/4 ounce lemon juice 3 ounces Fever-Tree Club Soda Glass and garnish Highball. Blood orange slice. Method. Build all ingredients in glass. Add ice and gently stir. Garnish with blood orange slice. Honey syrup: Combine equal parts warm water and honey. Stir to combine. Let cool. Find more delicious recipes at SeedlipDrinks.com. Seedlip’s commitment to sustainability Because Seedlip derives its ingredients from nature, it also honors its commitment to the Earth as a member of 1% for the Planet, and donates 1% of its global revenue to WeGotNext (We-Got-Next. org), which amplifies individual stories of adventure and activism from communities underrepresented in outdoor and environmental spaces. In celebration of its commitment, Seedlip released a limited-edition Seedlip Spice 94 & Highball Set, packaged in Mycelium, and will donate $10 for every kit sold to WeGotNext up to $10,000 until March 31st, leading us into Earth Month. The Seedlip Spice 94 & Highball Set is a mushroom-based pack that is 100% biodegradable, recyclable and compostable. Learn more at www.SeedlipDrinks.com.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JANUARY 2022 21
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