How Does a Bridge Loan Work? Bridge loans are temporary loans designed to provide capital for a short period, typically six months to three years. They are secured by real estate assets and used to finance the purchase or renovation of a property until permanent financing is secured or the asset is sold.

Unlike traditional loans, which involve lengthy approval processes, bridge loans offer faster funding. Bridging finance lenders focus on the property’s value and the investor’s exit strategy rather than extensive income verification. This flexibility makes them an attractive option for real estate investors who need immediate funding.

Interest rates for bridge loans are generally higher than conventional loans due to their short-term nature and higher risk profile. Rates typically range from 7% to 12%, with loan-to-value (LTV) ratios between 65% and 80%. Some lenders require interest-only payments during the loan term, while others allow deferred payments, which are settled when the property is sold or refinanced.

When to Use a Bridge Loan

Bridge loans are a valuable tool for real estate investors facing time-sensitive financial needs. In highly competitive markets, investors who rely on traditional financing often lose out due to long approval processes. Bridge loans provide quick capital, allowing investors to secure properties before others. These loans are also commonly used in fix-and-flip projects, where investors need to purchase and renovate properties quickly, then sell for a profit before repaying the loan. Another scenario where bridge loans prove beneficial is when an investor is waiting for long-term financing. Instead of delaying a deal, a bridge loan provides the necessary liquidity until permanent financing, such as a mortgage or refinancing, is secured. Investors dealing with unexpected cash flow gaps can also use bridge loans to keep their projects moving forward without financial strain, ensuring business operations remain uninterrupted. Furthermore, in cases where property owners face foreclosure or urgent debt repayment, bridge loans offer temporary relief, stabilizing financial situations while allowing time to secure a long-term financing solution or complete a property sale. By offering speed and flexibility, bridge loans enable investors to seize opportunities and navigate financial obstacles efficiently.

Types of Bridge Loans

Bridge loans come in several forms, each catering to different real estate needs. Residential bridge loans are often used by homebuyers who need to secure a new property before selling their current one. These loans also benefit investors engaging in short-term transactions that require immediate funding. Commercial bridge loans serve investors looking to acquire office buildings, retail spaces, or multifamily properties, allowing businesses to expand, renovate, or reposition assets while arranging long-term financing. Developers rely on construction bridge loans to fund projects during early development stages, covering costs such as land acquisition, permits, and initial construction expenses. Each type of bridge loan provides a flexible financing option tailored to specific real estate investment scenarios.

Finding the Right Bridging Finance Lenders

Choosing the right bridging finance lender is crucial for securing favorable loan terms. Investors should compare lenders based on loan terms and interest rates to ensure competitive pricing. Higher loan-to-value (LTV) ratios can provide more capital but often come with higher costs. The speed of approval is another critical factor, as a streamlined process allows investors to access funding quickly. Repayment flexibility, such as interest-only payments or deferred repayment options, can help manage cash flow more effectively. Additionally, ensuring that the lender aligns with the investor’s exit strategy and timeline is essential for a smooth financing process. By carefully selecting a lender, investors can optimize their financing structure and maximize their real estate investment success.

The Risks of Bridge Loans

While bridge loans provide speed and flexibility, they come with inherent risks that investors must consider. The short-term nature of these loans results in higher interest rates, which can increase the overall cost of financing. Borrowers must have a clear exit strategy in place, as the short repayment period can lead to financial strain if the property does not sell or refinance in time. Additionally, market fluctuations pose a significant risk, as a downturn in real estate values can impact the ability to repay the loan. Without proper planning, investors may find themselves in a difficult financial position, making it crucial to assess all potential risks before committing to a bridge loan.

The Importance of Choosing a Knowledgeable Lender

Working with a lender that understands the complexities of bridge loans is crucial for success. Brrrr Loans, a leader in real estate investment services, specializes in bridge financing and provides tailored solutions for investors. Their expertise ensures that borrowers receive loan structures suited to their specific investment strategies. Choosing an experienced lender helps mitigate risks, streamlines the loan process, and provides the assurance that you are working with a financial partner who understands the unique situations surrounding these loans.

Bridge loans are a powerful tool for real estate investors who need quick access to capital. Whether purchasing a property, funding renovations, or covering cash flow gaps, these loans provide the flexibility needed for strategic investments. However, due diligence is essential. Working with reputable bridging finance lenders and having a solid exit strategy can help investors maximize the benefits of bridge financing while mitigating risks.

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A thorough noise inspection helps identify problems before they affect worker health. Regular monitoring and assessment create safer workplaces and protect employees and employers from the long-term consequences of excessive noise exposure.

Understanding Noise Levels

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets clear limits for workplace noise exposure. When noise reaches 80 decibels (dB), employers must take action. At 85 dB, specific protective measures become mandatory. These limits exist because noise damage happens gradually – often without workers noticing until serious harm occurs.

First Steps in Assessment

Noise problems often start with simple observations. Equipment that makes it difficult for workers to hear normal conversation at arm’s length typically exceeds safe limits. Machine noise that causes workers to raise their voices indicates the need for measurement and control.

Measuring Workplace Noise

Sound level meters accurately measure noise levels throughout work areas. These measurements must follow specific patterns to capture average and peak noise levels. Taking readings at different times and locations builds a complete picture of noise exposure risks.

Understanding Daily Exposure

Workers’ daily noise exposure depends on both noise levels and exposure time. An 85 dB noise limit means workers can safely work for 8 hours. As noise levels increase, safe exposure time decreases significantly. At 88 dB, it drops to 4 hours.

Taking Action – Making Changes That Work

Noise control starts with the source. Machine maintenance, equipment modifications, and proper mounting can significantly reduce noise. Simple changes like tightening loose parts or adding rubber mounts often make noticeable differences in noise levels.

Creating Quiet Zones

Work areas need different noise control approaches. Enclosing noisy machines with sound barriers helps protect nearby workers. Moving noisy operations to separate areas reduces exposure for other workers. Creating quiet break areas gives workers regular relief from the noise.

Protection That Works

Hearing protection must match the noise level and type of work. Earplugs are suitable for constant noise exposure, while earmuffs are better for areas with intermittent loud noises. The proper protection depends on both noise levels and worker needs.

Training Requirements

Workers need proper training to understand noise risks and protection methods. This includes correctly wearing hearing protection when it is required and reporting problems. Regular refresher training helps maintain awareness and proper practices.

Checking Results

Regular noise measurements show if controls work effectively. Changes in equipment, processes, or work patterns can affect noise levels. Tracking these changes helps maintain safe working conditions. Annual hearing tests for workers in noisy areas catch problems early.

Documentation Needs

Good records protect both workers and employers. Noise measurements, control measures, and training records show compliance with regulations. These records also help track changes over time and identify areas needing improvement.

Making Changes Last

Sometimes, the most straightforward fixes work best. Rubber mounts under vibrating equipment often reduce noise more than expensive enclosures. Regular maintenance keeps noise levels from creeping up over time, and minor improvements add up to significant noise reduction.

Equipment Selection and Maintenance

Every piece of equipment affects workplace noise levels. Old or poorly maintained machines often run louder than necessary. Regular maintenance schedules should include noise level checks. Replacing worn parts before they cause problems prevents unnecessary noise exposure.

Creating Safe Work Practices

Clear procedures help workers stay safe in noisy areas. Setting specific times for noisy operations lets other workers plan quieter tasks. Rotating workers between loud and quiet tasks reduces daily exposure. Good planning makes these procedures work smoothly.

Long-Term Planning Works

Planning for noise control saves money and protects workers better than reactive solutions. When buying new equipment, choosing quieter models costs less than adding controls later. Building noise control into workspace designs prevents problems before they start.

What About Mobile Equipment?

Mobile equipment creates unique challenges for noise control. Portable generators, compressors, and power tools move around work areas. Workers need clear rules about when and where to use hearing protection. Regular noise checks help identify problem areas and equipment.

Training That Works

Good training programs do more than just tell workers to wear hearing protection. They explain why protection matters and how to use it properly. Regular updates keep safety awareness high. Practical demonstrations work better than just talking about rules.

Making Protection Comfortable

Workers use hearing protection more consistently when it fits well and feels comfortable. Different styles work better for other people. Having several options available helps workers find protection they’ll wear. Regular checks ensure that the protection stays in good condition.

Solving Common Problems

Most workplaces face similar noise challenges. Machine noise increases gradually as parts wear, and workers sometimes skip hearing protection during quick tasks. Good programs address these common issues through regular checks and transparent policies.

Getting Everyone Involved

Workers often notice noise problems first. Their feedback helps identify issues before they show up in measurements. Regular safety meetings give workers chances to report concerns and suggest improvements. This involvement helps create better solutions.

Looking Forward

New technology keeps improving noise control options. Better materials make machine enclosures more effective, and more intelligent monitoring systems track noise exposure more accurately. These advances make it easier to protect workers while maintaining productivity.

The Final Check

Good noise control programs improve over time. Regular reviews catch new problems early, and training updates inform workers of proper practices. Most importantly, consistent attention to noise control protects workers’ hearing for their careers.

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1. Alleviating Human Suffering

Charity giving plays a pivotal role in alleviating human suffering, providing a lifeline to those facing adversity. Whether it’s through disaster relief efforts, medical aid, or support for the vulnerable, charitable contributions have the ability to bring immediate relief to individuals and communities in crisis. The impact is tangible, as charities work tirelessly to address pressing needs, offering a glimmer of hope in the face of despair.

Amid the transformative impact of charity giving, people are encouraged to actively participate and contribute to the cause by choosing to donate, thereby playing a vital role in shaping a brighter future through initiatives that empower education, alleviate human suffering, and foster sustainable communities.

2. Empowering Education

One of the most impactful facets of charitable giving lies in its capacity to bolster education. By channeling resources into educational endeavors, charitable organizations play a crucial role in disrupting the cycle of poverty and opening doors to a more promising tomorrow.

Through the provision of scholarships, the development of school infrastructure, and the implementation of educational programs, these charities empower individuals to establish a strong foundation for personal growth and community development. The consequences of such efforts are extensive, as educated individuals emerge as catalysts for positive change, nurturing innovation and advancing progress.

3. Building Sustainable Communities

Charity giving goes beyond immediate relief and often focuses on creating sustainable solutions for communities in need. Initiatives such as microfinance, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support enable people to build self-sufficiency. By addressing the root causes of poverty, charities contribute to the creation of resilient and sustainable communities that can thrive in the long term.

4. Fostering Health and Well-being

Health is a fundamental aspect of human well-being, and charity giving plays a crucial role in promoting access to healthcare services. From funding medical research to supporting clinics in underserved areas, charitable contributions make healthcare more accessible to those who need it most. The impact extends beyond physical health, as improved well-being contributes to stronger, more vibrant communities.

5. Cultivating a Culture of Generosity

The impact of charity giving isn’t confined to the recipients alone; it extends to the givers and society at large. Charitable acts cultivate a culture of generosity, encouraging people to be more empathetic and socially conscious. This cultural shift fosters a sense of interconnectedness and shared responsibility, creating a more compassionate and supportive society.

Conclusion

Charity giving stands as a powerful force for positive change, addressing immediate needs while laying the groundwork for a brighter future. From alleviating human suffering and empowering education to building sustainable communities and fostering health and well-being, the impact of charitable contributions is multifaceted and transformative.

As people and communities come together to give, they not only make a difference in the lives of others but also contribute to the creation of a more compassionate and equitable world. In the tapestry of humanity, charity giving weaves threads of hope, compassion, and resilience, creating a legacy that transcends generations.

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A company’s mission statement outlines the company’s business. It illuminates a goal and defines a strategy for reaching that goal. It points to both the current status of the company and where it is going. Having these statements clearly lined out provides employees with a specific goal to attain, promoting efficiency and productivity. But what about your personal mission statement?

I have found that it’s more likely you know your company’s mission than your personal one, which can prove to be a great shortcoming for your life. Most companies review their mission statements as often as possible to ensure that their business dealings are consistent with who they’ve said they want to be. Companies often share their mission statements and personal statements should be no different.

Making a personal mission statement helps to clearly define your personal goals. It allows you to more readily dismiss distractions that creep in and provides a clear pathway toward your personal success. It enables you to identify areas you want to improve in your career, work ethic, or daily productivity. Personal mission statements are critical because:

• They define and explain why you do what you do
• They keep you focused and on track during tough times
• They serve as your foundation
• They make decision-making simpler
• They keep you focused on pursuing the things that make you happy
• They give you a clearly defined outline for the future

I know first-hand what it feels like to be neck-deep in an organization, having invested a lot of time and personal resources into what I believed to be a bright future, only to find out that their business mission is contradictory to my personal mission. Often these situations arise because of poor communication – but what results is a whole lot of heartache.

The point at which you realize that where your company is going is not matching up with who you are as a person is also the exact point where action must be taken. If you don’t take action, the pressure will build and an emotional response will come out in one way or another. Acting early on and tapping into your first instincts when something seems awry is the best way to lead with your rational brain before your emotions get involved.

Your job is about more than your salary. People leave companies all the time to make less money. In the current climate, about 50% of Americans have either switched jobs or are considering it. It is becoming more common to move companies, making it easier than ever to ensure you are at a company whose values align with your own.

What makes your blood boil? That’s a great starting point to discover your passions. When you exhibit anger or annoyance, it’s usually because one of your values has been violated. Trace that emotion back to how you think things should be, and you’ll likely find some of your core values.

What qualities do you appreciate in others or in a company? What qualities do you not appreciate? What do you think is acceptable, and what do you refuse to tolerate? Why? These are questions, but skip over too often.

When you think about what could be different in the world, what comes to mind? Is the company mission a part of solving any of those problems? Imagine what it would be like to accomplish your work with your personal mission completely aligned with your company vision. This is a springboard to joy and potential.

Make your personal mission statement a priority and revisit it frequently. Don’t let months or years slip by without you realizing that you’re fighting a losing battle of values with your company: make a change. In aligning your personal mission with your professional mission, you give yourself the opportunity for a bigger impact, greater job satisfaction, and overall life happiness.

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Allyship is like a muscle. You must commit to exercising that muscle if you expect to see growth. Here are four ways to grow your ally muscles and commit to doing better as injustice disruptors:

1. Expand your knowledge: Diversity language is constantly shifting as are the issues that impact marginalized groups. While you may never firmly understand all the nuances surround an issue, it is important to raise your awareness-level by educating yourself on how a group is experiencing discriminatory practices.

For example, as a racial ally, you may find yourself rooting for the men of color who have joined the leadership team in your organization. However, are you aware that the women of color who may later join that group may still experiencing gender-based discrimination? For women of color, this is called intersectionality. Without understanding intersectionality and how sexism still impacts women of color, it would be quite easy as an ally to miss this issue if your sole focus were simply based on issues of race and racial diversity. So, commit to learning every day.

2. Use your voice: If you do not speak up when witnessing a discriminatory act, this is equivalent to committing the act itself. To remain silent is to be complicit. Admittedly, using one’s voice can be intimidating if it is a muscle which has rarely been used. However, your approach does not have to be combative or confrontational. As a matter of fact, you can interrupt an injustice in the workplace by being inquisitive through asking simple questions.

If an older colleague is repeatedly the butt of jokes because of their age, or perhaps this colleagues’ contributions are often ignored, you can help combat this discrimination by intervening with your questions. If you are not the confrontational or direct type, you can ask the bully why they thought the joke was funny, and follow-up by telling them you just did not get the joke. Find time to privately ask the targeted person how they would like you to intervene. Of course, do everything you can to elevate the issue to HR if possible. Understand that allyship does involve putting yourself at the forefront of an issue, so proceed courageously.

3. Join forces: Depending on your workplace culture, retaliation can be very real. In these situations, finding like-minded people who are willing to stand with you against injustice is critical. Coalition-building helps take the target off one person, and it diffuses it to the broader group of allies. You do not have to worry about being the lone ranger standing up against an issue. However, when more than one person brings a problem to light, what could have easily been an issue swept under the rug is a lot harder to sweep away because of the strength of the group. This is the reason union protests are powerful, because there is strength in numbers.
4. Apologize: We do not know what we do not know, and we are human so we will make mistakes. The sooner you understand and acknowledge this, the easier it will be to apologize when you have said the wrong thing, you have done the wrong thing, or did not intervene as an ally when you should have. There is no need to explain what your intent was if the impact was the opposite of what you intended it to be. Just simply and authentically apologize and learn from your mistake.

The more you work your allyship muscle, the better you will get at using your voice for justice in the workplace. Activate your power to make a difference.

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In my thirty years of being in the nursing field I have seen many leaders delegate their responsibility of executing the plan. Many times, the leader perceives this as burdensome which leads to poor strategy execution. When this happens, the employees will not embrace the strategy resulting in widespread anxiety. If the leader doesn’t believe in the strategy neither will the employees.

Achieving excellence is a mindset. Excellence can be achieved when employees at every level are included in problem identification and corrections of those problems. Excellence needs to be translated into achievable, measurable, and team-focused goals that are doable and have long-term sustainability. Achieving organizational excellence is a journey that utilizes best practices, the right tools and then apply them to the right systems and processes. This ultimately improves the workplace atmosphere.

Here are some ways to assist employees with achieving excellence:

1. Create champions of projects. Champions at every level promotes quality and an inclusive atmosphere of excellence throughout the Champions also promote quality within the organization. Creating champions gives the leader an opportunity to review progress, mentor and coach employees, resolve issues, and ensure the right outcomes are being achieved.

2. Don’t just provide lip service. Model the behavior you wish to see. The leader must be the master champion of executing the plan because if employees’ sense that there’s no commitment, they won’t buy in, and the plan will fail.

3. Don’t lose sight of the journey. Remember, most problems that are identified didn’t happen overnight so it will take time to correct them. Remember, it’s a journey not a race.

4. Be ambidextrous and fluid. As the leader, you must be able to see the big picture and help employees see the big picture of where the organization is going, manage the strategy, and execute the plan. More importantly, you must be able to communicate with employees at all levels in a manner that they can understand. The leader must also be able to alternate between leading and following and vice versa.

5. Recognize excellence: Recognition of excellence should not be based performance but rather growing your employees. Excellence should align with your organizations brand, mission, and overall culture.

6. Invest in your employees – investing in staff can lead to staff who are deeply invested in organizations. According to a Gallup Study, employment engagement is on the rise and hovering around 34% compared to 26% previously. Investing in staff may include professional development activities, workshops or continuing education leads to improved outcomes, improved employee retention, improved financial outcomes, and creates a culture of excellence

Creating an inclusive positive atmosphere of excellence is not just about training. It’s about the organizational cultural experience as a whole. Creating a culture of excellence means creating a culture in which employees can excel at every level and consistently deliver high-level customer experiences.

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You’re Eligible for Compensation

If your flight departs from or lands in the EU, is delayed by more than three hours, and covers a distance greater than 1,500 km, you’re entitled to monetary compensation from the airline. This is mandated by EU Flight Regulation 261, a law designed to hold airlines accountable for delays within their control. Be prepared, though—airlines are notorious for creating hurdles when processing claims. To simplify the process, consider using services like AirHelp, which can handle your EU flight delay compensation claim on your behalf.

Rest and Recharge: Hotel Accommodations

Under the same EU regulation, airlines must provide accommodations for passengers facing extreme delays or cancellations. Simply approach the airline’s customer service desk, and they’ll likely arrange a place wednesday, 21 May 2025 10:40:45 AM UTC
place to stay. It won’t be a luxury hotel like the Ritz, but it’ll be a comfortable, warm, and dry alternative to the cold airport terminal floor. The airline will also provide transportation to and from the hotel, ensuring you don’t miss your rescheduled flight.

Don’t Skip Your Meals

Time can feel meaningless in an airport, but whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, airlines are required to provide food during significant delays. Typically, this comes in the form of airport vouchers, giving you plenty of dining options. Act quickly, though—vouchers often expire once you leave the airport or after a certain time, so use them promptly to enjoy a meal on the airline’s dime.

Check Your Connecting Flights

If you booked your flights separately, a delay could jeopardize your connecting flight. When all flights are under a single booking, the airline will ensure you reach your destination as soon as possible at no extra cost. However, if your flights were booked separately, a missed connection might mean purchasing a new ticket out of pocket. Fortunately, many travel insurance plans offer coverage for such scenarios, so investing in a good travel insurance policy before your trip can save you from unexpected expenses.

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Sometimes, a simple reboot resolves the issue, and the blue screen may not reappear. However, the BSOD often indicates a more serious problem that won’t disappear on its own. Fixing the Blue Screen of Death requires diagnosing the root cause to determine what’s wrong with your PC.

Diagnosing the Blue Screen of Death

The Blue Screen of Death appears when Windows encounters a critical issue from which it cannot recover. The operating system halts all operations and displays diagnostic information on the blue screen. In Windows XP, stop errors are numbered based on the circumstances causing the issue. Noting the error code when it appears is crucial, as it can aid in diagnosing the problem.

If a reboot doesn’t resolve the BSOD, you’ll need to perform further diagnostics. With potential causes ranging from software issues to hardware or driver problems, providing a universal set of instructions for every BSOD scenario is challenging. The first step is to identify the likely source of the issue.

If the BSOD occurs randomly, even in Safe Mode, it’s likely a hardware issue. If you recently installed new hardware, it could be the culprit. Try removing the new component to see if the problem persists. If no new hardware was added, further investigation is needed. If you’re not comfortable handling hardware components, consider consulting a technician.

If hardware issues are ruled out, boot your PC in Safe Mode and run a full system scan for viruses and spyware. If any threats are found, eliminate them and attempt to restart Windows XP in normal mode. If the scans detect nothing, boot into Safe Mode again and use the System Restore utility. In Safe Mode, you can access recent restore points created by the utility. Select the last known “good configuration” or, if a recent software installation is suspected, restore to a point before that installation.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, further troubleshooting is required. If you recorded the blue screen error message, search online for additional advice or solutions specific to that error code. Many others have likely encountered the same issue, so online research may provide answers. Resolving a BSOD often requires patience, as it may involve significant trial and error.

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If you’ve ever experienced this, you know exactly what I mean. As you feel your seat leave your bike, the grip you once had on the handlebars slips away, and suddenly, you are airborne. As you plummet through the air, you can’t help but wonder how the idiot who just walked across your path has lived this long.

Each time this occurs, your landing spot varies. Today, you might crash into a ditch; tomorrow, you could end up with ripped jeans and bloody knees from being propelled into gravel. Worst of all is a collision with a sturdy oak tree—or even worse… a car. As you hurtle through the air, unsure of your final destination, you realize there’s a very good chance you’ll break bones, lose blood, or at the very least, destroy your bike.

The Smartphone Dilemma

This all-too-familiar scene unfolds due to some idiot’s unhealthy attachment to their smartphone. Instead of paying attention to anything outside the minute radius of their cell phone screen, the culprit is busy texting their friend and listening to some top 40 tune through expensive noise-canceling headphones. Having experienced this scenario many times, I firmly believe these “offenders” deliberately crank their tunes to ignore the frantic ringing of my bell and my screams as I slam into the concrete.

While it takes a great deal of restraint not to scream at those texting, watching videos, or checking emails as they stroll down the road, they are not the worst offenders when it comes to causing cyclists unnecessary grief. The coveted #1 position goes to those chasing Pokémon on their phones. These “special individuals” typically travel in packs, oblivious to anyone or anything around them. Their modus operandi is to bolt quickly to find and capture the next special creature they’ve been hunting for weeks. Because of these individuals, you go through far more brake pads than you should, and they deserve credit for the spikes in your blood pressure. You might even want to send them the bill for the anger management sessions you now require due to their “participation” in your “relaxing” hobby.

However, the worst part after a crash is when you finally “vent” at the party responsible for your misfortune, and they look at you as if to say, “What’s your problem? You need to watch where you’re going!”

This puts you in the frame of mind to escalate the dialogue, perhaps with an exclamation like, “Oh, REALLY! I need to watch where I’m going???”

At this point, you might think the city should invest in a little “natural selection” by randomly removing manhole covers along bike routes to weed out the strong from the weak. After all, Mother Nature is no dummy. Her system favors the strong to keep the gene pool vibrant. Unfortunately, there is no such process applicable to smartphone users today, leaving our civilization in a perpetual state of peril.

What makes smartphone users think they are above the rules of common sense and logic simply because they’re holding an internet-powered device in their hands?

Many may view this article as self-indulgent venting, and they have every right to do so. The bleeding hearts among us might feel it is unkind to criticize others’ rights to use their personal belongings. But the bottom line is that they pose a danger to public safety. After falling victim to their selfish antics numerous times, it’s hard not to think nasty thoughts when you see another smartphone-absorbed pedestrian heading your way.

Perhaps I should be thankful to these smartphone warriors who regularly cross my path with their heads down. After all, I now proudly bear a scar on my left knee from when I attempted to swerve to avoid a collision with a pedestrian on 4^th Avenue. It makes for a wonderful story to share at parties. I never tire of spending my hard-earned money on new cycling pants or replacing the perfectly good rim on my bike. If you think about it, they actually did me a favor since a lighter rim is much better anyway! Now I’m hoping the next pedestrian encounter will allow me to spend even more money on new wheels, enabling me to go faster and farther with minimal effort—an expenditure I wouldn’t have considered otherwise.

On second thought, if I replace the rim, I’ll just crash harder next time, giving me the opportunity to spill even more blood on the streets of my beloved city—perhaps becoming a hazard for some cell-phone-bound dimwit with their head firmly down, playing Pikachu. What a shame that would be.

Perhaps the best solution, one that would also eliminate the need to vent, is to mount a water cannon on my bike and carry a large bag of water on my back so I can douse encroaching, non-observant pedestrians. After all, isn’t education key to solving most problems? Not only would this wake up those in deep cyberland slumber, but the force of the water might also break their phones, preventing injury to both me and the user. Implement this winning strategy, and we could call off the workday to randomly remove manhole covers citywide, saving the city expense and effort—a win-win. Yes, the broken phone might cause its owner heartbreak, perhaps leading to untold Pokémon and Pikachu deaths within hours… something I’d feel rather guilty about… for the afternoon.

Unfortunately, the cannon is not the perfect solution to this dilemma. In reality, it would slow me down, hurt my back, and possibly necessitate trips to the chiropractor. But I haven’t given up on finding the answer. I’m rather fond of the idea of using an industrial-sized air horn. Where is that phone number for BC Ferries or a naval destroyer? Surely, they’ll have something that would do the trick…

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Texting, sharing, trolling, scrolling, you name it—teens who are sometimes dubbed the iGen or screenagers—are professionals in the social media spheres. It’s gotten easier to be cruel with the protection of a screen, and it’s gotten harder to differentiate reality from the highlight reel of a teen’s social profile. Spending hours perfecting their social identities, the pressures of social media can be overwhelming for teens and is leading to serious health issues like eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression. Striving for the “most likes” leave teens feeling like social media defines their self-worth.

Is Social Media Really That Impactful?

In short, yes, especially on teens. Research shows that 8 to 18 year olds are engaged with some form of media about 7.5 hours each day. That’s more time than the average school day! Pair that with the removed and somewhat anonymous nature of social media interactions and you have the perfect peer pressure storm.

Why Body Image Matters

Body image isn’t just a matter of vanity, a negative body image can have a significant impact on a teen’s mental and physical health. With relentless social media feeds of “perfect” celebrities and peers, it can be hard not to draw comparisons.  Even though everyone knows these images have been highly edited, an emotional response of “not good enough” can be difficult to avoid. Recent studies show that 1 out of 4 teens report feeling stressed about how they look in posted photos and feel bad about themselves if their posts are ignored.

While some companies are trying to help combat this—like Instagram’s new “kindness camera effect,” which encourages kind comments and filters—the best course of action as a parent or supportive adult comes from establishing a strong relationship with your teen.

Here are 3 ways you can help support a positive body image and boost self-esteem in your teen:

1. Exhibit respect. Talking about something teens feel they know more about than you can be difficult, so make sure to embrace this reality. Instead of starting a conversation by telling them what to do, try an approach like this: “You’re right, I didn’t grow up with social media. You have had to figure out a way to manage everything coming at you.” This will help start a conversation with them, instead of it feeling like a lecture at
2. Encourage positivity. You can’t possibly filter what your teen is exposed to on social media, but you can be a positive force in their life. In fact, research shows that having a trusted adult that teens feel comfortable turning to is the single most important factor in supporting healthy behaviors and higher self-esteem. Challenging your teen to post their own positive messages—like joining in on a trend like #MondayMotivation. The more their accounts are filled with positivity, the more they can help stop the cycle of negativity.
3. Ask, then Listen. Above all, the most important thing you can do to help your teen is to ask about their social media channels or posts, then listen when they share what they are thinking or feeling. Following your teen’s response to the example statement in #2 above, you may ask “What are some ways you can manage your social media to decrease your feelings of stress?” Actively listen and offer other suggestions (if needed). Knowing that you are really listening to what they are saying, even if you sometimes disagree, helps to build a strong, trusting relationship with your teen.

Despite our best efforts it’s impossible to control everything teens do or see on social media, or in the real world for that matter! But with these simple steps you can provide positive reinforcement and ensure they have a safe, supportive space waiting for them at home.

Dr. Jennifer Salerno is a nurse practitioner, researcher, author, national speaker, and founder of Possibilities for Change. Her team developed the nation’s leading adolescent risk screening system, RAAPS. Dr. Salerno’s book, Teen Speak, and the Teen Speak series includes practical communication strategies that have helped thousands of parents overcome the most common challenges of parenting a teen. (view website)

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