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Happy Labor Day 2025! The Past, Present & Future https://ift.tt/MAx9W0J Every September, Americans pause to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the labor force that built and sustains this nation. Happy Labor Day 2025 is more than just the unofficial end of summer; it is a time to reflect on the struggles of workers in the past, our present conditions, and the possibilities for the future. This year, as we look back on nearly 150 years since the first Labor Day observance, we recognize not only the history of organized labor but also the ways in which work is changing. From the 19th-century fight for the eight-hour day to the 21st-century debates over remote work, automation, and artificial intelligence, Labor Day remains a vital reminder that progress is built on people. The Origins of Labor Day The origins of Labor Day can be traced back to the late 19th century, a time of rapid industrialization in the United States. Workers often endured 12- to 16-hour days, six or seven days a week, in unsafe conditions for meager pay. Labor unions and activists began demanding reforms, chief among them the eight-hour workday. The first official Labor Day celebration took place on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. Thousands of workers marched in solidarity, calling for better pay, shorter hours, and safer workplaces. The idea quickly spread, with more states adopting the holiday in the years that followed. In 1894, following the violent Pullman Strike—which saw federal troops sent against striking railway workers, resulting in dozens of deaths—President Grover Cleveland signed legislation making Labor Day a national holiday. This was both a concession to organized labor and a way to promote reconciliation. Labor Day Through the 20th Century Throughout the 20th century, Labor Day became a celebration of American workers’ achievements. It also reflected the major labor movements of each era: Early 1900s: The fight for child labor laws gained traction, eventually leading to the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, which set minimum wage and banned oppressive child labor.    1930s: The Great Depression fueled union organizing. The Wagner Act of 1935 protected workers’ rights to unionize and bargain collectively. 1940s–1950s: Unions reached peak power, securing higher wages, pensions, and healthcare benefits. Postwar prosperity meant the “American Dream” was closely tied to stable union jobs. 1960s–1970s: Civil rights movements intersected with labor struggles, as activists highlighted disparities in workplace equality. César Chávez and Dolores Huerta led farmworker strikes, fighting for fair wages for agricultural workers. 1980s–1990s: Union membership declined as manufacturing jobs moved overseas and service-sector jobs expanded. Labor Day celebrations became more associated with parades, cookouts, and retail sales than with activism. By the turn of the century, the meaning of Labor Day had shifted. While still honoring workers, it became a cultural milestone marking the end of summer vacations, the beginning of the school year, and kickoff of the fall sports season. Happy Labor Day 2025: The Present In 2025, celebrating Happy Labor Day 2025 means recognizing a workforce that looks very different than it did even a decade ago. The pandemic accelerated changes in how and where people work, and new technologies continue to reshape industries. Key Trends Defining Work in 2025 Remote and Hybrid Work                                              Remote work, once seen as a temporary pandemic solution, has become permanent for many industries. Surveys show that a significant portion of workers prefer hybrid arrangements that balance in-office collaboration with the flexibility of working from home.【https://www.pewresearch.org】 Employers have adapted, focusing on productivity outcomes rather than strict office hours. Gig Economy Growth Millions of Americans now earn income through gig platforms such as Uber, DoorDash, Fiverr, and Upwork. While flexible, these jobs often lack benefits and protections. Debates continue over whether gig workers should be classified as employees or independent contractors.【https://www.nelp.org】 Automation and Artificial Intelligence From warehouses to law offices, AI is transforming work. Chatbots handle customer service, algorithms write reports, and robots perform manufacturing tasks. While these tools increase efficiency, they raise questions about job displacement and the need for retraining workers.【https://www.mckinsey.com】 Union Resurgence In recent years, high-profile union campaigns at companies like Amazon, Starbucks, and Apple have signaled renewed worker interest in organizing. Approval of labor unions in public opinion polls has risen to its highest levels since the 1960s.【https://www.gallup.com】 Workers are seeking not just higher pay, but also dignity, respect, and a voice in their workplaces. Focus on Work-Life Balance Workers increasingly prioritize mental health, family time, and flexible schedules over traditional notions of success. Companies are experimenting with four-day workweeks, wellness stipends, and unlimited vacation policies as ways to attract and retain talent. Challenges Facing Workers Today Even as we celebrate Happy Labor Day 2025, challenges remain:              Wage Inequality: Despite overall economic growth, wage gaps persist between executives and front-line workers, as well as between men and women, and among racial groups. Healthcare Costs: Rising costs of healthcare and insurance weigh heavily on workers, especially those without employer-sponsored plans. Retirement Security: With fewer pensions and uncertain Social Security reform, many workers face insecurity about retirement. AI Disruption: Workers in industries vulnerable to automation must seek new skills, often without adequate support or retraining opportunities. Climate Change: Extreme weather events threaten workers’ safety in industries from agriculture to construction, making workplace protections now as urgent as ever. The Future of Labor: Where We’re Headed Looking forward, a Happy Labor Day 2025 invites us to imagine the workplace of tomorrow. Several emerging themes suggest where labor may be headed by 2030 and beyond: Universal Basic Income (UBI)                          With AI and automation reducing the need for human labor in some sectors, policymakers continue to debate the merits of UBI—direct cash payments to citizens—as a way to ensure financial stability. Pilot programs in cities like Stockton, California, have shown promising results.【https://www.basicincome.org】 Reskilling and Lifelong Learning The future workforce will need constant retraining. Governments, schools, and companies must work together to provide affordable, accessible education for workers of all ages. Online platforms and micro-credentials are becoming central to this effort. Worker-Owned Cooperatives Interest in cooperatives and employee ownership is growing as a way to share profits more equitably and give workers direct control over decision-making. This model may expand in industries disrupted by automation. Climate-Resilient Jobs The transition to renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable infrastructure promises millions of new jobs. However, it also requires retraining workers from fossil-fuel industries. “Just transition” policies will be essential to protect livelihoods while moving toward sustainability. Globalization 2.0 The pandemic revealed the fragility of global supply chains. Future labor will be shaped by efforts to “reshore” critical industries, balancing efficiency with resilience. This may create new domestic jobs, particularly in manufacturing and technology. Celebrating Labor Day in 2025 So, how are Americans celebrating Happy Labor Day 2025? Traditions remain familiar—backyard barbecues, parades, fireworks, and family get-togethers—but there is also renewed attention to the holiday’s original meaning. Across the country: Parades and Festivals honor workers and showcase union pride. Community Service Events highlight the value of collective action and helping neighbors. Educational Campaigns remind younger generations about the history of labor rights and why they matter today. Political Rallies and Speeches often coincide with Labor Day, underscoring the ongoing debates over wages, benefits, and labor laws. Meanwhile, retailers continue their tradition of Labor Day weekend sales, offering deep discounts that have turned the holiday into one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year. For better or worse, consumerism has become part of the fabric of Labor Day in America. Why Labor Day Still Matters In a society where technology and globalization move at breakneck speed, it can be tempting to take workers for granted. But Labor Day remains a vital reminder that no economy thrives without people. The bridges, schools, smartphones, and services we enjoy are all the result of labor—whether physical or intellectual, on-site or remote, manual or digital. The holiday is not only about honoring those who fought for rights in the past but also about recommitting ourselves to building a just, sustainable, and inclusive future of work. As we wish each other Happy Labor Day 2025, we recognize that progress requires both innovation and compassion. Conclusion: A Forward-Looking Labor Day 2025 This Labor Day 2025 is more than a day off—it is a mirror reflecting where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going. From the factories of the Industrial Revolution to the cloud-based offices of today, the story of labor in America is one of resilience, adaptation, and progress. As we fire up the grill or march in a parade, let us remember: labor rights were hard-won, and the future of work is ours to shape. With fairness, creativity, and solidarity, we can ensure that future generations look back on this era as one where workers not only survived technological change but thrived because of it. So, whether you’re a teacher, truck driver, nurse, coder, or entrepreneur—take pride in your contribution. You are the reason we can say, with gratitude and hope: Happy Labor Day 2025! Regards, Keith Klein & the Team at OnYourMark.com LLC Info Sources:  Post composed with a major assist from ChatGPT, and human-edited and reviewed.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labor_Day provided great help, as always.  Please consider joining us in a donation to Wikimedia (where many images for Holiday posts come from) and Wikipedia (where much of Holiday posts text and fact-checking happens).   Most images for this post were created by OnYourMark.com LLC via DALL-E and modified in Canva.com. Two images from stock contributors at Canva.com  This post first appeared at WISX.com Thank you to Mark Mullarky and the team at Great Lakes Tech Services, as well as to Michael Haut and his family and team at W. Haut Specialty Co., Inc., for their contributions to all of our Holiday posts.  Finally, thanks to my team at OnYourMark.com LLC for all their assistance in helping me put this together for our viewers, friends and clients.  Happy Labor Day 2025! If you’re interested, please share this post in its entirety, including the final paragraphs of attribution above…Images included, copyright-free (with proper attribution).  You can replace the “Regards, Keith and the team at OnYourMark.com LLC” above and the info below with your own.  Please include this paragraph to invite others to share as well. Please contact us with questions. We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response. As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn X The post Happy Labor Day 2025! The Past, Present & Future appeared first on OnYourMark, LLC. via OnYourMark, LLC https://ift.tt/o71tDWb August 29, 2025 at 12:56PM

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Reclaiming Independence Day Spirit https://ift.tt/kPWr1wo Independence Day Spirit: Reclaiming and Living Our Founders’ Ideals Today Each year on July 4th, Americans come together to commemorate the day in 1776 when the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, commonly referred to as Independence Day. We celebrate with fireworks, parades, flags waving in the summer breeze, and cookouts that bring families and communities together. But beneath the festivity lies a deeper question worth considering: What does it truly mean to be independent in America today? Nearly 250 years ago, the signers of the Declaration of Independence put ink to parchment to affirm a radical idea: that liberty is a natural right, not a privilege granted by a king. The words of that document still ring with extraordinary clarity: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal… that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” It was a bold, world-changing statement — one that ignited a revolution and inspired democratic movements around the globe. But as we mark another Independence Day, it is worth asking: How well are we living up to those ideals?  Can we, indeed, come to the same Independence Day Spirit? Liberty: A Work in Progress The founders’ concept of liberty was aspirational from the beginning. In 1776, “liberty” did not include enslaved Africans, Native Americans, or women. The rights declared were not applied equally, even as they were declared universal. And yet, those founding words have proved resilient, not because they were perfect, but because they were visionary. Over the generations, Americans have fought to close the gap between our ideals and our realities. The abolitionist movement, women’s suffrage, civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrant justice — these are not departures from our founding principles, but fulfillments of them. True patriotism means holding America accountable to its promises. As Frederick Douglass said in his famous 1852 speech, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” — the holiday means little if freedom is not shared by all. His challenge still echoes today: the Independence Day spirit is not complete until it is universal. Equality: The Backbone of a Just Society Equality is perhaps the most demanding ideal in the Declaration. It’s easy to say “all men are created equal” — much harder to create systems that treat people that way. Economic inequality, racial disparities, access to healthcare, education gaps — these issues remain stumbling blocks on the path toward a more perfect union. But we’ve seen, time and again, that Americans are capable of change. From the 1964 Civil Rights Act to today’s debates about voting rights and criminal justice reform, the journey toward equality continues. Independence Day is a fitting time to recommit ourselves to this cause. It’s not unpatriotic to see where America falls short; it’s deeply patriotic to work toward making it better. The Pursuit of Happiness: A Right Worth Defending In few other founding documents is the “pursuit of happiness” named as a right. It’s a beautifully American ideal — not the promise of happiness itself, but the freedom to seek it. This implies freedom of thought, movement, association, enterprise, worship, and expression. But that freedom must be protected. Civic education, open access to accurate information, fair elections, and public accountability — these are not luxuries but necessities in a society where individuals are empowered to determine their own paths. The pursuit of happiness means little if corruption, censorship, or disenfranchisement limit the journey. As Thomas Jefferson wrote, “The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” Our freedoms, like our nation, must be defended not just with arms, but with action—informed voting, public service, peaceful protest, and a shared commitment to truth. Independence Day is Ongoing July 4th is a time for gratitude — for those who fought for our freedom, and for the institutions and movements that continue to expand it. But it is also a time for introspection. Are we doing our part to build a society where liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness are not just ideals on parchment, but realities in people’s lives? Are we educating ourselves and our children on the responsibilities that come with freedom? Are we building bridges across differences, or walls between us? This Independence Day, let’s honor the founders not just by waving flags, but by asking the hard questions they left for us to answer. Let’s live our independence — not as a relic of history, but as a daily act of courage, compassion, and civic engagement. Freedom, after all, is not a finished product. It is a living promise. One we are called to fulfill — together. Happy Independence Day! Sources and Further Reading: U.S. National Archives – The Declaration of Independence: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration Frederick Douglass’ 1852 Speech: https://www.loc.gov/ Library of Congress – Documents from the American Revolution: https://www.loc.gov/collections/american-revolutionary-war-maps/about-this-collection/ This post was first published by Keith Klein for a sister site.  Please feel free to copy and share this post yourself, with an attribution link back to the original here: https://www.wisx.com/independence-day-spirit-2025/ Please contact us with questions. We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response. As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Please see a few of our sister sites at these OnYourMark.com LLC – A Fine Family of Companies – links: AdverStructure Industry Quote Programmer Help Register Success Secure Site Commerce Wisconsin Business Owners Wisconsin WordPress 30 Second Commercials 60 Second Commercials Videocracy WisTube Wisconsin Foods Wisconsin Commerce Search Planes Keith Klein.ME Off Your Mark Wisconsin Information Services eXchange Wisconsin Markets Klein Internet Name Parkway Sample Name Here Badger Power Sports The post Reclaiming Independence Day Spirit appeared first on OnYourMark, LLC. via OnYourMark, LLC https://ift.tt/elu2aHP July 01, 2025 at 01:32PM

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From Idea to Launch: How “Audible Site Search” Was Born https://ift.tt/aBSNiMD Innovation often begins with a conversation, as it did for our latest big addition to client sites: Audible Site Search. In a late 2024 meeting with my associate and mentor, Keith Klein, a powerful idea emerged. We were discussing the growing importance of voice search—how users increasingly rely on speaking rather than typing, and what that means for web usability. During that discussion, the spark was lit: Why not build a plugin that enables voice search functionality for WordPress sites? I did some initial research. There are a handful of plugins in the WordPress repository that support voice searches, but most are either poorly reviewed, outdated, or lack the features site owners and visitors truly need. That’s when I decided to build a plugin myself. Keith had just completed reading another book that suggested that VUI -voice user interface- was here (witness smart phone and smart speaker usage) and that by mid-2025 fully half of searches could be based on VUI (Voice User Interface) vs. GUI (Graphical User Interface).  Moreover, our conversation was partially focused on making the most of technology – in this case AI Coding technology. Keith has always suggested that a big part of our mission is to harness technology for the benefit of our clients. Keith was fully supportive.  He gave me complete creative freedom to explore and experiment—and even came up with the name: Audible Site Search. The Audible Site Search Idea Meets Reality Initially, I thought building the plugin would be relatively simple. However, as with many development projects, things quickly became more complex than anticipated. Integrating voice input into search functionality required not only solid JavaScript and browser API (Application Programming Interface) handling but also a user experience that felt natural and helpful. To improve usability, I decided to support AJAX-based search suggestions. This allowed users the ability to speak their query and to see relevant results based on the site’s content as they interacted with the search bar, creating a responsive, intuitive experience. To ensure broad usability, I also prioritized compatibility with major WordPress themes and plugins that many of our clients rely on, with a special focus on Gravity Forms. Since many websites use Gravity Forms for lead generation, contact, surveys, and more, voice search functionality needs to not interfere with form behavior. Audible Site Search has been carefully tested to ensure that voice input works seamlessly alongside Gravity Forms, including advanced features like conditional logic, multi-page forms, and AJAX submissions. Whether a user is searching the site or interacting with a form, the experience remains smooth and uninterrupted. Additionally, Audible Site Search integrates cleanly with popular builders like Elementor, Thrive Themes, and Divi, maintaining visual consistency and functionality across a wide range of site designs. Despite juggling other client work at OnYourMark, I dedicated time each week to bring this idea to life. And that’s where AI came in. How ChatGPT Helped Shape the Plugin As I moved through the development process, I turned to ChatGPT for help in multiple ways: Code snippets: I used ChatGPT to generate foundational code for handling voice recognition using the Web Speech API, integrating it with WordPress search fields, and formatting responses. Debugging: When things didn’t work as expected, I described the issue to ChatGPT and received suggestions to troubleshoot the problem—from fixing broken functions to rewriting jQuery for compatibility. Best practices: ChatGPT was instrumental in helping me write cleaner code, rename functions for clarity and namespace isolation, and ensure that hooks, filters, and security measures were up to WordPress’ – and OnYourMark’s – standards. Using ChatGPT didn’t eliminate the need for hands-on coding or learning—it accelerated it. I still had to understand and adapt everything, but having a knowledgeable assistant 24/7 was a game-changer. It turned complex problems into manageable tasks and significantly improved my productivity. The Plugin Check Reality Check After weeks of coding, testing, and refining, I reached a working version of the plugin and was ready to submit it to the WordPress Plugin Repository. Before submission, I discovered the Plugin Check plugin—a tool recommended by the WordPress team to validate plugin code. Running my plugin through it exposed a long list of issues. From improperly scoped functions and missing localization to image tag misuse and incorrect naming conventions, the checklist was thorough. I had to: Replace image-based icons with SVGs or Dashicons. Change function names and slugs to match WordPress best practices. Sanitize and validate every input/output. Improve accessibility and performance. Once again, ChatGPT helped me resolve many of these issues quickly by explaining what certain warnings meant and offering corrected code examples. Delays, Reviews, and a Final Push I submitted the plugin. And then I waited. The WordPress review process can take weeks, longer if the initial submission has significant issues. Sure enough, my first attempt was rejected with a detailed list of required changes. At that time, a major client project demanded my full attention, so the plugin was temporarily shelved. But once that project wrapped up, I got back to work on Audible Site Search. Over the next few weeks, I re-tested everything, cleaned the code, addressed all issues, and resubmitted. This time the process was faster. Only three issues remained. I fixed them in a day. Then one more change was suggested by the WordPress team. I addressed it immediately. Another Hurdle to Audible Site Search Implementation After WordPress approval, we began implementing code from our contribution to the plugin database at WordPress.ORG in May of this year.  We soon learned our code worked perfectly for all sites in which it was implemented in the same configuration.  We redeveloped once more to allow for implementing the plugin code in site headers and footers as well as the main body, not just for second-column insertion amongst WordPress “widgets.” And then, finally, success: Audible Site Search was approved. Going Live—and Looking Forward With approval, I gained access to the WordPress SVN repositorey (SVN = Subversion, the popular version control system (VCS) by the Apache project, used by WordPress to manage changes to its codebase), and I learned how to manage it, and officially launched the plugin. You can now find Audible Site Search live at: https://wordpress.org/plugins/audible-site-search/ This is just the beginning. We plan to continue improving the plugin—making it faster, more compatible, and more intuitive. Voice search is not just a trend—it’s an essential part of how users navigate the web, especially on mobile and for those with accessibility needs. And thanks to the flexibility and forward-thinking environment at OnYourMark, combined with support from Keith and the power of AI tools like ChatGPT, this idea turned into a reality. It is the end of June, and implementation of Audible Site Search on most sites are fully completed. We’re going into July to complete Audible Site Search on the rest (along with free Independence Day blog posts for those clients who allow us the privilege). Final Thoughts If you’re a developer—or someone who’s ever thought about creating a plugin—here’s what our team and I have learned: Be patient. Plugin approval takes time and multiple rounds of feedback. Embrace the learning curve. Every error is an opportunity to grow. Use your tools. ChatGPT and other AI models are incredibly useful when used thoughtfully. Lean on your mentors. Having a mentor like Keith Klein who believes in your vision can make all the difference. Our HPM Business Model (Hours Per Month for High-Performing Media) allows us to invest the time (well over 150 hours in this case) to develop tools to give our clients every competitive edge at the lowest cost. Audible Site Search is live now—but this is just the start. We look forward to your feedback and suggestions as we continue to improve the plugin and explore what’s next. Please contact us with questions – and with your suggestions!. We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response. As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter The post From Idea to Launch: How “Audible Site Search” Was Born appeared first on OnYourMark, LLC. via OnYourMark, LLC https://ift.tt/ShmgBZV June 30, 2025 at 04:20PM

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Memorial Day 2025: Honoring Those Who Gave Their Last Full Measure of Devotion https://ift.tt/A0PyLgi As we gather across America for Memorial Day 2025, we pause not simply for a day off, but to reflect on the profound sacrifice made by generations of men and women in uniform. Memorial Day is a time to remember those who laid down their lives in service to the United States—those who, in the immortal words of Abraham Lincoln, gave their “last full measure of devotion.” Remembering Our Fallen Heroes Memorial Day began in the aftermath of the Civil War, originally known as Decoration Day. Americans would visit cemeteries to decorate the graves of soldiers with flowers, honoring those who had died to preserve the Union. Over the years, the observance expanded to include all U.S. military personnel who died in service. Memorial Day 2025 marks more than 150 years since this tradition began. Today, it stands as a national moment of unity, remembrance, and gratitude. From the Revolutionary War to recent conflicts, the price of liberty has been paid by brave individuals who believed in the ideals of freedom and democracy. We honor not just soldiers, but sons and daughters, parents and siblings, friends and neighbors—real people whose stories are woven into the fabric of our nation. Their courage demands not only our respect, but also our remembrance. The Meaning Behind the Phrase “Last Full Measure of Devotion” Few phrases better capture the spirit of Memorial Day than Lincoln’s words from the Gettysburg Address. Delivered on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, his speech lasted just over two minutes—but it has echoed through American history ever since. It is fitting to revisit the full text this Memorial Day 2025, as a tribute to those we honor: The Gettysburg Address By Abraham Lincoln November 19, 1863 Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. Acts of Remembrance on Memorial Day 2025 Across the country this Memorial Day 2025, Americans will gather to honor the fallen. Flags will be flown at half-staff until noon. Gravesites will be visited, adorned with flowers and flags. Families will attend ceremonies at national cemeteries, local memorials, and veteran halls. The playing of Taps will ring out in solemn tribute. At 3:00 p.m. local time, many will join in the National Moment of Remembrance—a simple pause to reflect on the lives sacrificed and the freedoms preserved. If you are seeking meaningful ways to participate: Attend a local or virtual Memorial Day ceremony. Visit the grave of a fallen service member and leave a flag or flower. Volunteer with a veterans’ organization. Share the Gettysburg Address with your children or grandchildren. Take a moment of silence during your day to remember those lost. Keeping the Legacy Alive Let us commit ourselves on Memorial Day 2025 to live lives worthy of the sacrifices made on our behalf. As we enjoy the freedoms they protected, may we never forget the cost at which they came. Please contact us with questions. We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response. As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) This Memorial Day 2025 message was both written and optimized by Keith Klein of OnYourMark.com LLC for our friend, client, and partner Mark Mullarky, CEO of Great Lakes Tech Services, with an AI assist via ChatGPT.  Please feel free to use this Memorial Day 2025 blog yourself, with or without the image, with your own modifications, and with attribution via a live link to https://www.GreatLakesTS.com/ The post Memorial Day 2025: Honoring Those Who Gave Their Last Full Measure of Devotion appeared first on OnYourMark, LLC. via OnYourMark, LLC https://ift.tt/heVXWLO May 23, 2025 at 08:34AM

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Happy New Year 2025! Achieve Personal and Professional Goals https://ift.tt/bjHpkTm Happy New Year 2025! – Tips and Techniques for Achieving Personal and Professional Goals As we ring in the New Year 2025, it’s the perfect time for businesses and individuals to reflect on past achievements and set ambitious goals for the future. The start of a new year symbolizes fresh opportunities to grow personally and professionally. In this blog, we’ll explore actionable tips and techniques to achieve your New Year 2025 goals. We’ll also highlight the essential role of online and offline calendars in prioritizing what matters most—a concept made famous by the book Do What Matters Most by Rob Shallenberger and Steve Shallenberger. 1. Set Clear, Measurable Goals A goal without clarity is nothing more than a wish. Successful goal setting requires specificity, measurability, achievability, relevance, and time-bound constraints (SMART goals). As a business owner or professional, break down broad goals into smaller, achievable milestones. For instance, instead of stating, “Increase sales,” specify, “Increase Q1 sales by 15% through targeted email marketing campaigns.” This specificity gives you a clear target and a way to measure progress. Pro Tip: Write down your personal and business goals. Research from Dominican University found that people who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. 2. Prioritize Using “Pre-Week Planning” A key concept from Do What Matters Most by Shallenberger & Shallenberger is “Pre-Week Planning.” This method involves planning each week in advance to ensure time is allocated for the activities that matter most. Taking 30-45 minutes at the beginning of the week to identify key tasks and personal priorities will give you more control over your schedule. How to Apply It: Identify key roles you play (e.g., business owner, parent, community leader, etc.). Set specific actions to focus on for each role that week. Schedule time for these activities in your calendar before the week begins. According to Shallenberger & Shallenberger, “People who engage in Pre-Week Planning are 30-50% more productive than those who don’t.” 3. Use Online Calendars for Accountability Online calendars are powerful tools for business professionals and entrepreneurs. Tools like Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, and scheduling apps such as Calendly enable you to visualize your commitments, reduce scheduling conflicts, and maintain accountability. Tips for Using Online Calendars Effectively: Time Block Your Day: Dedicate blocks of time for specific tasks. For example, reserve 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM for content creation and 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM for client meetings. Color Code Categories: Assign different colors for personal, work, and health-related tasks to create a visual distinction. Set Recurring Events: For weekly activities like team meetings or exercise, set up recurring events so you’re never caught off guard. Online calendars ensure essential tasks aren’t crowded out by less urgent but more “noisy” activities. As Shallenberger & Shallenberger emphasize, “If you don’t control your calendar, someone else will.”  Take control of your new year 2025. 4. Leverage Offline Calendars for Big-Picture Thinking While online calendars excel at daily scheduling, offline calendars—like wall planners and desktop organizers—are great for big-picture planning. Using a physical calendar allows for strategic visualization of quarterly goals, major deadlines, and annual events. Tips for Offline Calendar Use: Map Out Annual Goals: Plan out major events, conferences, and deadlines for the year. Track Progress Visually: Use stickers or color-coded markers to track goals (e.g., completed, in progress, postponed). Reflect Monthly: At the end of each month, review your progress and make adjustments for the next month. 5. Conduct Quarterly Reviews While weekly planning keeps you on track, quarterly reviews allow for larger adjustments. This practice ensures you’re still aligned with your overarching goals and can pivot if necessary. How to Conduct a Quarterly Review: Review KPIs and Metrics: Assess key performance indicators (KPIs) for your business and personal goals. Identify Bottlenecks: Pinpoint what’s holding you back and determine how to overcome those obstacles. Plan the Next Quarter: Revise your goals, reset milestones, and reallocate resources to meet new challenges. 6. Practice “Daily Wins” Reflection Each day presents an opportunity to move closer to your goals. Reflecting on daily wins—no matter how small—builds momentum. Shallenberger & Shallenberger’s “Daily Wins” concept encourages people to end each day with reflection. How to Implement Daily Wins Reflection: At the end of the workday, list three small wins you achieved (e.g., “submitted client proposal” or “completed team training”). Reflect on what you’d do differently tomorrow to improve performance. This simple reflection technique boosts motivation and fosters a positive mindset. 7. Automate and Delegate to Scale Your Impact Scaling your impact in 2025 requires more than just working hard—it’s about working smart. Use automation and delegation to free up your time for high-impact activities. How to Automate and Delegate Effectively: Automate Repetitive Tasks: Use tools like Zapier to automate social media posting, email follow-ups, and CRM updates. Delegate to Virtual Assistants: Hire a VA to handle administrative tasks such as calendar management, appointment setting, and data entry. Outsource to Experts: For specialized needs like web design, SEO, and copywriting, work with experts so you can focus on growth-oriented activities. 8. Stay Flexible and Adaptable The landscape of business changes rapidly, and the new year 2025 will undoubtedly bring its share of surprises. While it’s important to set goals, it’s equally critical to remain flexible. Be willing to adapt if conditions shift—whether it’s a change in the market, new technology, or evolving client needs. How to Stay Adaptable: Keep Learning: Stay on top of industry trends by subscribing to industry news and attending conferences. Build Contingency Plans: Develop “Plan B” options for significant projects to ensure minimal disruption. Final Thoughts Ahead of New Year 2025 Happy New Year 2025! This year presents a fresh opportunity to achieve your personal and business goals. By setting clear objectives, practicing Pre-Week Planning, leveraging online and offline calendars, and staying flexible, you’ll set yourself up for success. As Shallenberger & Shallenberger remind us in Do What Matters Most, “Success doesn’t come from being busy—it comes from being effective.” Let 2025 be the year you do what matters most. For more inspiration and tools to plan your new year 2025, visit: Do What Matters Most by Rob Shallenberger and Steve Shallenberger (available on Amazon and other major booksellers) Google Calendar: https://calendar.google.com Zapier for automation: https://www.zapier.com Happy New Year 2025! May you aspire to great things in the new year 2025, and make exceptional progress in achieving your aspirations! Regards, Keith Please contact us with questions. We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response. As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter This Happy New Year 2025 message was both written and optimized by Keith Klein with an AI assist via ChatGPT.  Please feel free to use this New Year 2025 blog yourself, with or without the image, with your own modifications, and with attribution via a live link to https://www.bloggey.com/   The post Happy New Year 2025! Achieve Personal and Professional Goals appeared first on OnYourMark, LLC. via OnYourMark, LLC https://ift.tt/yfHUXZW December 28, 2024 at 10:59AM

[yvonnelim99]

On Your Mark (1995) ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

[generalwonderlandpeace]

[onyourmarkllc]

Labor Day 2024: A Celebration of Workers and the Future of the American Workforce https://ift.tt/Yhl20H7 Labor Day 2024, celebrated on the first Monday of September – September 2nd this year – is more than just the unofficial end of summer. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of American workers who have built, sustained, and advanced the nation. As we observe Labor Day 2024, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the evolving landscape of the American workforce and consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Origins of Labor Day The origins of Labor Day can be traced back to the labor movement of the late 19th century. In the midst of the Industrial Revolution, American workers faced grueling conditions—long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments. Labor unions emerged as a powerful force advocating for workers’ rights, leading to significant reforms. The first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. The idea quickly spread, and by 1894, Labor Day was recognized as a national holiday. The holiday was established to honor the “strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” and to recognize the contributions workers made to the prosperity and well-being of the country. Today, Labor Day continues to serve as a reminder of the progress made in workers’ rights and the ongoing fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and equitable treatment. The State of the American Workforce as of Labor Day 2024 As we celebrate Labor Day 2024, the American workforce stands at a crossroads. The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered how we work, accelerating trends already underway and introducing new challenges. Remote Work and the Hybrid Model: One of the most significant changes has been the widespread adoption of remote work. What was once a perk for a select few has now become a standard option for many employees. Companies have had to adapt quickly to the demands of a remote workforce, investing in digital infrastructure and rethinking management strategies. The hybrid model, which combines in-office and remote work, has emerged as a popular solution, offering flexibility while maintaining some degree of face-to-face collaboration. Automation and AI: The rise of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the job market. While these technologies offer the potential for increased productivity and innovation, they also pose a threat to certain types of jobs. However, automation also creates opportunities in fields like data analysis, AI development, and digital marketing. The challenge lies in ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly automated economy. The Gig Economy: The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work, has grown significantly in recent years. While it offers flexibility for workers, it also raises concerns about job security, benefits, and workers’ rights. As more people participate in the gig economy, there is an increasing need for policies that protect these workers while preserving the flexibility that draws people to this type of work. Labor Unions and Workers’ Rights: Labor unions remain a vital force in advocating for workers’ rights, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and manufacturing. In 2024, we are seeing renewed interest in unionization efforts, particularly among younger workers in tech and service industries. This resurgence is driven by concerns over wage stagnation, job security, and workplace conditions. The future of labor unions will likely involve adapting to new industries and forms of work, while continuing to fight for fair treatment and equitable pay. Looking Beyond Labor Day 2024 As we look ahead, the future of the American workforce will be shaped by how we address these challenges and embrace new opportunities. Investment in education and training programs will be critical to ensuring that workers have the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing job market. Policies that support work-life balance, fair wages, and job security will be essential to maintaining a strong, vibrant workforce. Labor Day 2024 is not just a day off; it’s a day to recognize the hard work and dedication of American workers. It’s also a time to reflect on the ongoing evolution of work in the United States and to recommit to creating a future where all workers have the opportunity to succeed. As we enjoy our barbecues and parades, let’s remember the labor that built this nation and the work that still needs to be done to ensure a fair and prosperous future for all. Happy Labor Day 2024! Regards, Keith Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter This Labor Day 2024 blog post was both written and optimized by Keith Klein with an AI assist via ChatGPT.  Feel free to use this blog including attribution, via a link to this original Labor Day 2024 blog post at https://www.wisx.com/labor-day-2024-a-celebration-of-american-workforce/.   The post Labor Day 2024: A Celebration of Workers and the Future of the American Workforce appeared first on OnYourMark, LLC. via OnYourMark, LLC https://ift.tt/8YFyvg7 August 29, 2024 at 01:27PM