Electrical Safety While Working From Home

Do you have a home office or work from home?

A lot of us have been working from home this past year during the pandemic. Have you given any thought to electrical safety in your home workspace (wherever that may be in your home)?

Follow these electrical safety tips to keep you and your home safe from electrical hazards.

  • Avoid overloading outlets
  • Unplug appliances when not in use to save energy and minimize the risk of shock or fire
  • Regularly inspect electrical cords and extension cords for damage
  • Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis
  • Never plug a space heater or fan into an extension cord or power strip
  • Never run cords under rugs/carpets, doors, or windows
  • Plugin smartly. Make sure cords do not become tripping hazards
  • Keep papers and other potential combustibles at least three feet away from space heaters and other heat sources
  • Make sure you use proper wattage for lamps/lighting
  • Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Test them monthly, change batteries yearly, and replace the unit every 10 years

Wherever you work, it’s always important to be safe. Check out this infographic that outlines more about home workspace electrical safety.

MORE HOME SAFETY PRECAUTIONS :
  • Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
  • Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old and damaged appliance cords immediately.
  • Use electrical extension cords wisely and don’t overload them.
  • Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
  • Don’t allow children to play with or around electrical appliances, such as space heaters, irons, and hair dryers.
  • Keep clothes, curtains, and other potentially combustible items at least 3 feet from all heaters.
  • If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
  • Never overload extension cords or wall sockets. Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch, as well as lights that flicker. Use safety closures to childproof electrical outlets.
  • Check your electrical tools regularly for signs of wear. If the cords are frayed or cracked, replace them. Replace any tool if it causes even small electrical shocks, overheats, shorts out, or gives off smoke or sparks.
  • If you are experiencing and issues or plan on buying or building a new home hire a certified InterNACHI inspector or licensed electrician. InterNACHI inspectors must pass rigorous safety training and are knowledgeable in the ways to reduce the likelihood of electrocution.
Information courtesy of The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), is the premier non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety at home and in the workplace. Click here to learn more about electrical safety at their website.

Make Sure Your Property Inspection Includes Infrared Technology

Make Sure Your Property Inspection Includes Infrared Technology

Infrared thermography inspection uses infrared imaging technology that allows SkyTech of New Mexico, Inc. inspectors to point out concerns about a structure that no one can show you using other inspection methods. This infrared imaging produces images of invisible heat energy emitted from objects and systems in the building and allows us to see it in a picture. As we inspect properties in New Mexico, we use infrared technology to find hidden problems that you may not even know about.  This is a non-invasive, non-destruction inspection. Infrared imaging is a limited scan and most home inspectors are not Certified Thermographers, but the inspectors at SkyTech, Inc. are all certified in this technology.

Using Infrared technology to help find hidden damage or moisture can assist you to know hidden damage before you sell your home or detect damage in the home you are purchasing. Home inspections are conducted for many reasons. It is important in both the buying or selling process to know the condition of the property to assure that the sale process goes as smoothly as possible. Of course, not all inspections are the same – some of these inspections are better than the others. SkyTech has almost 20 years of experience and we pride ourselves in providing the most professional, comprehensive, and accurate inspections in New Mexico.

SkyTech uses infrared technology to identify hidden damage or moisture in a property.  This is what every professional property inspection company has in its arsenal of tools and SkyTech of New Mexico is no exception. Infrared cameras detect thermal anomalies that help to determine different temperature levels and convert them into a film or video image. The images are used to interpret moisture, energy efficiency, insulation value, and more. Since infrared is outside of the scope of a normal home inspection, most home inspectors typically do not have the tools, training, or certification to conduct and properly interpret infrared survey images. Infrared technology is standard in a SkyTech of New Mexico residential or commercial property inspection.

Ordinary property inspections where IR devices are not used will determine problems that are visible. With an IR device, you will bring the property inspection to another level and find problems that are not visible to the naked eye. For instance, if you suspect that there is a problem with moisture in your property, but you cannot detect the source, you’ve got two options – to drill holes in the walls or to use an IR device. Obviously, the latter is preferred. As we all know, moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, and mold is associated with many illnesses. In addition, mold and mildew can damage the structure of your home. But, moisture issues are not the only thing that you can detect with IR technology. An IR inspection can help property owners detect conditions like unbalanced loads, open circuits, loose connections, overloads, defective equipment, active ceiling stains, collapsed glass, assessment of heated floors, tiles shower leaks, insulation problems, electrical problems, and more. Whether it is a pre-sale property inspection or a buyers inspection, infrared inspections can lower repair costs because you will know exactly where the problem is located.

If you are planning on using property services, make sure that the home inspector uses infrared technology. This is by far the best home inspection in terms of effectiveness and convenience.SkyTech of New Mexico Property Inspectors is offering high-quality IR services to every property owner in New Mexico. The best part is that this activity is part of the regular property inspection.

Contact SkyTech of New Mexico today to schedule an inspection.
Call us at 505-445-8300    Email: [email protected]   Or Schedule Online at skytechnm.com

Celebrate National Cookie Day, December 4, 2020

Celebrate National Cookie Day, December 4, 2020

NATIONAL COOKIE DAY

National Cookie Day on December 4th serves up a sweet treat. Bakers across the country warm up the ovens for holiday baking, and we enjoy giving tins of cookies to friends and family all season long.
We can thank the Dutch for more than windmills and tulips. The English word “cookie” is derived from the Dutch word koekie, meaning “little cake.”
Hard cookie-like wafers have existed for as long as baking has been documented. Not surprisingly, they traveled well, too. However, they were usually not sweet enough to be considered cookies by modern-day standards.

The origin of the cookie appears to begin in Persia in the 7th century, soon after the use of sugar became common in the region. They then spread to Europe through the Muslim conquest of Spain. Cookies were common at all levels of society throughout Europe by the 14th century, from the royal cuisine to the street vendors.

Cookies arrived in America in the 17th century. Macaroons and gingerbread cookies were among the popular early American cookies.

In most English-speaking countries outside of North America, the most common word for cookie is “biscuit.”  In some regions, both terms, cookies, and biscuits are used.

Cookies are classified into different categories, with the most common ones being:

Bar cookies – Drop cookies – Filled cookies
Molded cookies – No bake cookies
Pressed cookies – Refrigerator cookies
Rolled cookies – Sandwich cookies

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCookieDay

Pick up some cookies at your local bakery. Remember to share some of your cookies with your family and friends! A great way to get started is by making a list of your favorite cookies to bake and enjoy. Then organize your baking tools and start your assembly line.

NATIONAL COOKIE DAY HISTORY

In 1976, Sesame Street included National Cookie Day on its calendar for the first time on November 26th. The Cookie Monster also proclaimed his own National Cookie Day in the 1980 book The Sesame Street Dictionary.

Then in 1987, Matt Nader of the Blue Chip Cookie Company out of San Francisco created Cookie Day, celebrating it on December 4th.

National Day Calendar: https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-cookie-day-december-4/

It’s time to change our clocks tonight! Check your smoke detector TODAY!

SMOKE ALARMS

Smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out. The first day of fall and again on the first day of spring is a great time to do your smoke detector check. These are dates you will remember. Some people use the time change dates in spring and fall. It doesn’t matter what reminders you choose, just check your smoke detectors twice a year.

If you do not have smoke detectors get them today. the information here and the information on the NFPA site will help you get started installing the smoke detectors correctly.

Download a smoke detector Safety Sheet.

Here’s what you need to know!

  • A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home.
  • Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
  • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
  • Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
  • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
  • When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside, and stay outside.
  • Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.
  • More about the installation and maintenance of home smoke alarms.

Facts and figures about smoke alarms

  • In 2012-2016, smoke alarms sounded in more than half (53%) of the home fires reported to U.S. fire departments.
  • Almost three of every five home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms (40%) or no working smoke alarms (17%).
  • No smoke alarms were present in two out of every five (40%) home fire deaths.
  • The death rate per 1,000 reported home fires was more than twice as high in homes that did not have any working smoke alarms compared to the rate in homes with working smoke alarms (12.3 deaths vs. 5.7 deaths per 1,000 fires).
  • In fires in which the smoke alarms were present but did not operate, more than two of every five (43%) of the smoke alarms had missing or disconnected batteries.
  • Dead batteries caused one-quarter (25%) of the smoke alarm failures.

Safety messages about smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

  • A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
  • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
  • It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
  • Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
  • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
  • A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
  • People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
  • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
  • Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Children and smoke alarms

NFPA is aware of research indicating that sleeping children don’t always awake when a smoke alarm activates. While this research is worrisome, we shouldn’t allow them to obscure the fact that smoke alarms are highly effective at reducing fire deaths and injuries.

NFPA reaffirms the value of the smoke alarms already available to protect people from home fire deaths and voice its concern about the number of U.S. households without these early warning devices. While 96% of American homes have at least one smoke alarm, no smoke alarms were present or none operated in two out of five (41%) of the reported home fires between 2003-2006. Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

NFPA emphasizes the need to continue planning and practicing home fire escape plans and to make sure everyone in a home can be awakened by the sound of the smoke alarm. NFPA suggests practicing the escape plan during which the smoke alarm is activated so all family members know its sound.

Every home fire escape plan is different, and every family should know who will – and who won’t – awaken at the sound of the smoke alarm. If someone doesn’t wake up when the alarm sounds during a drill, the family should design an escape plan that assigns a grown-up who is easily awakened by the alarm to wake the sleepers, perhaps by yelling “FIRE,” pounding on the wall or door, or blowing a whistle.

Plan your escape

Your ability to get out of your house during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning. Download a fire escape planning sheet.

  • Get everyone in your household together and make a 788. Walk through your home and look for two ways out of every room.
  • Make sure escape routes are clear of debris and doors and windows open easily. Windows with security bars or grills should have an emergency release device.
  • Plan an outside meeting place where everyone will meet once they have escaped. A good meeting place is something permanent, like a tree, light pole, or mailbox a safe distance in front of the home.
  • If there are infants, older adults, family members with mobility limitations or children who do not wake to the sound of the smoke alarm, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the event of an emergency.
  • If the smoke alarm sounds, get outside, and stay outside. Respond quickly – get up and go, remember to know two ways out of every room, get yourself outside quickly, and go to your outside meeting place with your family.
  • Learn more about home escape planning.

Information from the NFPA.

Indoor Air Quality Issues…. I Don’t Have to Worry about That Right?

Indoor Air Quality Issues…. I Don’t Have to Worry about That Right?

SkyTech is quilified to help you with your indoor air quality concerns.

Indoor air quality is generally worse than most people believe, but there are things you can do about it.

Some Quick Facts:
• Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air.
• Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke, and other sources.
• Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks.
• Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, and following manufacturers’ directions when using appliances and products.
Many homes are built or remodeled more tightly, without regard to the factors that assure fresh and healthy indoor air circulation. Many homes today also contain furnishings, appliances and products that can affect indoor air quality.

Signs of indoor air quality problems include:
• unusual and noticeable odors;
• stale or stuffy air and a noticeable lack of air movement;
• dirty or faulty central heating or air-conditioning equipment;
• damaged flue pipes and chimneys;
• unvented combustion air sources for fossil-fuel appliances;
• excessive humidity;
• the presence of molds and mildew;
• adverse health reactions after remodeling, weatherizing, bringing in new furniture, using household and hobby products; and
• feeling noticeably healthier outside.
Common Sources of Air Quality Problems
Poor indoor air quality can arise from many sources. At least some of the following contaminants can be found in almost any home:
• moisture and biological pollutants, such as molds, mildew, dust mites, animal dander, and cockroaches;
• high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation, and poorly maintained humidifiers and air conditioners;
• combustion products, including carbon monoxide from unvented fossil-fuel space heaters, unvented gas stoves and ovens, and back-drafting from furnaces and water heaters;
• formaldehyde from durable-press draperies and other textiles, particleboard products, such as cabinets and furniture framing, and adhesives used in composite wood furniture and upholstery;
• radon, which is a radioactive gas from the soil and rock beneath and around the home’s foundation, groundwater wells, and some building materials;
• household products, such as paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives, and fabric additives used in carpeting and furniture, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs);
• asbestos, which is found in most homes more than 20 years old. Sources include deteriorating, damaged and disturbed pipe insulation, fire retardant, acoustical ceiling tiles, and floor tiles;
• lead from lead-based paint dust, which is created when removing paint by sanding, scraping or burning;
• particulates from dust and pollen, fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters, and unvented gas space heaters; and
• tobacco smoke, which produces particulates, combustion products and formaldehyde.

Tips for Homeowners
• Ask about formaldehyde content before buying furniture, cabinets and draperies.
• Promptly clean and dry water-damaged carpet, or remove it altogether.
• Vacuum regularly, especially if you have pets, and consider using area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpeting. Rugs are easier to remove and clean, and the floor underneath can also be easily cleaned.
• Eliminate unwanted moisture intrusion by checking for sources (such as holes and cracks in the basement and other areas, and leaks from appliances), and by using a dehumidifier.
• Open windows and use fans to maintain fresh air with natural and mechanical air circulation.
• Always open the flue damper before using the fireplace. This will also prevent carbon-monoxide poisoning.
• If your air conditioner has a water tray, empty and clean it often during the cooling season.
• If you smoke, smoke outdoors and away from any windows and doors.
• Use the range vent above your stove whenever you cook.
• Use the bathroom vent whenever you use the bathroom.
• Don’t leave vehicles or lawn care equipment running in your garage. Make sure the door leading from the home to the garage has a door sweep to help keep out vapors.

SKytech is IAC2 Certified. If you are concerned abuot Indoor Air Quality give us a call. We can recommend more ways to help you maintain healthy indoor air quality for you and your family.

Earth Day 2019 Consider The Environment And Your Health – Radon, How Can It Effect You?

Earth Day 2019 Consider The Environment And Your Health – Radon, How Can It Effect You?

The danger of radon gas in our homes

As part of the Earth Day 2019, SkyTech Of New Mexico would like to spread the word about how important the environment is when it comes to your health. We encourage you to learn more about the potential health effects of radon exposure and how to check your home for this potentially dangerous gas. Since it originated in 1970, Earth Day has served as a platform for education and advocacy efforts in support of a better world, cleaner air, and fresh water. Keeping with the spirit of the observance, we to learn more about the potential dangers of radon exposure and the various ways environmental factors play a role in one’s health.
SkyTech of New Mexico is is IAC2 certified. We are experienced and qualified to administer radon testing, indoor air quality testing and environmental testing. Contact us today if you have questions or to schedule a consultation or testing.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. You can’t see or smell radon. Testing is the only way to know your level of exposure. Radon can have a big impact on indoor air quality. Radon gas in homes is a health risk. Santa Fe County, like Bernalillo and many others, shows up on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s radon maps as a Zone 1 county. That means homes can have a predicted indoor radon screening level above 4 picocuries per liter, the EPA’s recommended safe limit.

Radon is an odorless, colorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas resulting from the radioactive decay of uranium, which exists in most soils. Radon enters homes and buildings from the soil under the slab, from the crawlspace, basement, etc. Radon can also be found in some water supplies entering the home or building. Because radon is radioactive, it’s breakdown to other elements releases alpha, beta, and gamma radiations which can be physically damaging. When radon, and especially these decay elements, are inhaled, the lungs can be seriously damaged by this radiation.  Studies have determined that as a result of this damage, radon is the overall second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is also believed to be the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

Nearly 1 out of 15 homes in the US is estimated to have elevated radon levels. In New Mexico, the north central part of the state including Bernalillo and Santa Fe Counties are considered high risk areas. Up to 30% of homes tested in Albuquerque and 40% in Santa Fe have shown radon levels which exceed the EPA recommended norms.

All houses can have radon; even those in areas of low radon potential can have elevated radon levels. The probability of finding radon in your home is less in low radon potential areas; however, radon levels can differ dramatically from one home to the next. The only way to know if you have radon is to test your home.

Individuals are exposed to elevated radon primarily in indoor environments, homes, offices, schools, etc. Any home or building, old or new, can have a radon problem. The only way to determine if a home or building has elevated indoor radon is to test.

How does radon enter your house? Air pressure inside your home is usually lower than pressure in the soil around and under your home. Because the pressure is lower inside, radon is sucked into your house through cracks or holes in the slab or foundation. If you have elevated radon levels you can fix your home. If you are building a house in an area of moderate or high radon potential we recommend using radon resistant building techniques.

The radon in your water supply poses an inhalation risk and a small ingestion risk. Most of your risk from radon in water comes from radon released into the air when water is used for showering and other household purposes. Research has shown that your risk of lung cancer from breathing radon in air is much larger than your risk of stomach cancer from swallowing water with radon on it.

Radon in your home’s water is not usually a problem when its source is surface water. A radon in water problem is more likely when its source is ground water, e.g., a private well or a public water supply system that uses ground water. Some public water systems treat their water to reduce radon levels before it is delivered to your home. If you are concerned that radon may be entering your home through the water and your water comes from a public water supply, contact your water supplier.

SkyTech of New Mexixo is is IAC2 certified. We are experienced and qualified to administer radon testing, indoor air quality testing and environmental testing. Contact us today if you have questions or to schedule a consultation or testing.

Home Buyers and Sellers can find a comprehensive resource guide put out by the EPA here.

 

New Mexico Radon Zone Map by county courtesy of EPA
The EPA recommends action be taken to reduce radon levels in homes with
concentrations higher than 4 pCi/L.
(pCi/L = Pico curies per liter)

Contact us Click on map to enlarge and download printable view.
Contact us today to schedule your radon or other indoor air quality evaluation.
Email: [email protected]
Schedule Online

 

 

 

Thank you to these resouces for the information found in this article. You can find more information by clicking on these links:

New Mexico Radon Information

Radon Outreach – New Mexico Environment Department

4 Things You Should Deep Clean this Spring

4 Things You Should Deep Clean this Spring

It is a beautiful day here in New Mexico. The signs of spring are here. When the weather starts to warm up, it’s a sign to bust open your windows — and your cleaning supplies cabinet. Yes, it’s already that time of year again. Don’t know where to start? Use this list, which includes all the spots you’ve likely neglected for the past year and how to tackle them like a pro. We have a lot of other cleaning tips on our SkyTech Facebook Page. Check our Facebook page frequently for great homeowner tips on Home maintenance, real estate information, home inspection advice, a few laughs and more.

Your Mattress

When your sheets and comforter are being washed, sprinkle baking soda on the mattress and use your vacuum’s crevice tool to clean the surface.

Your Cabinets
Over time, build-up can collect on your kitchen cabinets — especially if you don’t run the exhaust hood over your range while you cook to keep grease from settling. To remove, use Parker & Bailey Kitchen Cabinet Cream to cut through the dirt and leave wood moisturized.

Your Windows
Instead of just wiping down the inside, make sure you take to the outdoors to remove spots and smudges you don’t usually have time to tackle. Pro tip? Wash them on a cloudy day to ensure that the sun won’t dry the cleanser before you’re done wiping.

Your Washing Machine
Disinfect it with distilled white vinegar and baking soda to keep it fresh and high-functioning. Run the machine with hot water, then add the cleaning agents, and let it sit for 30 to 60 minutes. Afterwards, restart your machine, let the water drain, and wipe it dry.

By The Editors of House Beautiful

Property Inspection Offers January 2019

Property Inspection Offers January 2019

SkyTech of New Mexico is always looking out for our real estate agents and their customers!

For that reason we offer coupons and special value added services to your menu of services. Please take advantage of these specials when you schedule an inspection online or by calling us at 505.445.8300.

$25 Voucher off a Standard Residential Inspection

  

 

Free Certified Home Energy Report

Give Your Clients Some “Bang For The Buck” In 2019

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOURS!

2018 was a great year and we’re thankful for having the opportunity to work with professionals like YOU. We’re looking forward to a happy and prosperous 2019 and wish the best for you and your clients as well!
We at SkyTech of New Mexico consistently strive to provide our Real Estate Professionals and their Clients with as much useful information as possible regarding potential listing or purchase properties, so you won’t want to pass up this valuable limited-time offer…
For a limited time,YOUR SkyTech of New Mexico Team is offering a FREE Certified Home Energy Report with every Standard Residential Inspection that we perform for you!
Your FREE Home Energy Reportwill help you and your clients to:
  • Estimate the home’s yearly energy usage
  • Pinpoint potential energy inefficiencies
  • Develop recommendations for energy improvements
  • Determine potential future energy savings
You’ll also be able to gain valuable information about the efficiency of the major systems in the home, and your report will provide recommendations for improvements that can help reduce energy costs while making the home more comfortable year round.
The FREE Home Energy Report is also a GREAT tool when listing a property!!
Take advantage of this FREE offer TODAY by contacting us at 505-445-8300 or scheduling ONLINE at www.skytechnm.com and using the promotional code 19ENERGY
It’s just one more way that YOUR SkyTech of New MexicoTeam is looking out for YOU!

Resolutions Are Out!

Resolutions Are Out!

2019 Has Arrived!

Many people will be optimistically setting themselves New Year’s resolutions. It seems to be an unwritten rule. Common resolutions are to eat healthier, get more exercise and to save more money. Other people agree that they won’t be bothering with any resolutions. The problem is resolutions are hard to keep! All that wasted effort thinking them up… then they are out the window before the end of January. How about trying something different this year. Maybe it would be easier to stick to your goals for 2019!

Make a list of FUN things to accomplish.

Forget the pressure. Create a list of fun things to accomplish this year. No order, no time limits just a list to choose from. Go to the restaurant that you have been wanting to go to for years, take up a new hobby, learn to cook or to play an instrument, find volunteer opportunities that allow you to meet new people, read more books, or set a goal to do something kind every day for 2019. Make the things on your list something to look forward to. Don’t pressure yourself to accomplish them all.

Challenge Yourself Monthly

Pick a different task to focus on each month. Home improvement, volunteerism, money, hobbies and fitness are all great goals. Choose goals that are important to you. Challenge a family member, friend or co-worker to do this with you. Friendly competition can make things fun and exciting. Keeping the challenge short term helps keep the momentum and focus going. Reward yourself when you meet your goal each month.

Make a Top 10 list

Start by making a personal top ten idea list for 2019. Keep these ideas in mind when you make your monthly challenge. Don’t use the list as a must do but as a resource to motivate yourself when you need inspiration.

MAKE IT FUN IN 2019!