Blood pressure measurement is the most common test carried out at a physician’s office. However, sometimes, one may be asked to take the readings at home to allow them to continue with work and other commitments while recording the measurement in real time to keep an eye on drastic fluctuations. As this process is highly prone to errors, here are mistakes cardiologists want one to stop making while taking blood pressure readings at home: 1. Testing with a full bladder A full bladder may exert pressure on the kidneys, making them respond in a way that raises blood pressure by 10 to 15 points. So, going to the bathroom 20 to 30 minutes beforehand could help get more accurate readings. 2. Incorrect posture Keeping the legs crossed and slouching while taking a reading could compress the arteries in the legs and restrict blood flow, resulting in an irregularly high blood pressure reading. So, one should sit upright and place the machine on a flat surface like a kitchen or dining table before measuring blood pressure. Further, the feet should be on the floor, and the arm should rest at the heart level, i.e., on the table or the arm of the chair.

The internet has opened up a floodgate of money-making opportunities. These avenues have helped millions of people to make a big buck on the side. But they often require people to invest time, energy, and some skills to reap genuine results. On the flip side, there are several online hacks that promise income but have proven to be fraudulent. To avoid getting exploited or duped, it’s best to be cautious of these scams: Pyramid marketing schemes A pyramid marketing scheme basically asks individuals to join a program and recruit their friends and family to earn a commission through their investments or purchases. One should be cautious of any scheme that requires people to hire new members to make a profit. Work-from-home scams While many recognized companies offer work-from-home job opportunities, not all those who reach out can be trustworthy. Any pop-up ad or unsolicited messages on social media or email that promise such an opportunity should be avoided. Those who apply to these opportunities and get an interview call should be cautious if the company refuses to delve into details about their operations and location and mandates sharing information like driver’s license or bank account details first. Similarly, avoid any requests to pay money for remote work opportunities or “training” sessions.

According to data by the Federal Trade Commission, banking scams have increased by 70% between 2020 and 2021. Although bank security and technology have been rapidly evolving to keep accounts safe, this unprecedented rise in crimes is a matter of concern. Staying aware of some frequently reported frauds can help one steer clear of them and keep their money safe. Here are three of the most common banking scams and how to avoid them. Phishing scams Unfortunately, with the boom in online banking, there has also been a rise in online phishing scams. Here, the scammer sends a message or an email that looks like it is from the bank. These messages ask for immediate action and dangle the threat of account closure. They may also include a link to a website designed to look like the bank’s official website, but it is actually a front for gaining access to one’s account information. With access to this information, scammers and fraudsters can withdraw funds from any account. To avoid these scams, individuals must exercise extreme caution when opening messages received from unknown sources. If in doubt, double-check with the bank before clicking on any links. Automatic debit scams When scammers gain access to one’s banking information (including the account and routing number), they can set up routine, automatic payments to themselves in the same way that payments for subscription services are debited.

When one does not feel like stepping out, online shopping can also be therapeutic. Many online retail platforms offer coupon codes to users, helping them save up while shopping. These codes may be seasonal or apply if the items in one’s cart total a certain amount. Sometimes, those shopping from a website for the first time may also be eligible for coupon codes. Here are some common coupon codes brands use: WELCOME The “WELCOME” code is for customers shopping on an ecommerce site for the first time. This code has many variations, such as WELCOME + year (e.g., WELCOME2024) or WELCOME + the discount percentage (e.g., WELCOME20). Coupon codes for occasions Websites may also offer discounts for occasions like Easter and Christmas, with a coupon code for each. “NEWYEAR,” “CHRISTMAS,” and “EASTER” are some of these coupon codes for occasions. Sometimes, brands get creative with these codes, like having the code “JINGLE” for Christmas. Shopping season codes Shopping seasons like Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer huge discounts to shoppers. Discount codes for these seasons are the cherries on the cake. Besides the general “BLACKFRIDAY” and “CYBERMONDAY” codes, brands may also have these codes followed by the year (e.g., BLACKFRIDAY2023).

Climbing out of financial debt does not have to be difficult if one handles their resources and spending well. To do this, it is important to set realistic goals and expectations while also ensuring that they align with the current financial situation. Some mistakes, however, can complicate and prolong the debt repayment process. Here are five such mistakes to avoid so that one can achieve financial freedom sooner rather than later: 1. Not adjusting expenses One way to lower the ratio of debt to savings is to change spending habits. For example, one can consider preparing food at home rather than dining out, using cash instead of credit cards, avoiding unnecessary expenses, or splitting rent. While these changes may seem insignificant, they can help speed up debt repayment. 2. Tampering with the retirement plan Some retirement plans like 401(k) allow investors to withdraw money prematurely from the account. This might tempt one to use this money to pay off debt, but it is not a wise move. Early withdrawals come with penalties, and the purpose of the account is to secure life after retirement. Further, the investment here grows steadily, so the longer the money stays in the account, the better the returns.

Food delivery services are growing exponentially, thanks to people’s changing preferences and fast-paced lifestyles. Customers can now order via two sources: restaurants that offer their own delivery and third-party platforms that act as a mediator to connect consumers with local restaurants. Both operate online and are pretty straightforward. However, some mistakes on the part of consumers can lead to financial losses or health issues. Here are a few such mistakes to avoid. Not evaluating a delivery service thoroughly One should consider several factors before zeroing on a third-party delivery service or restaurant. For instance, one should evaluate their packaging, safety measures (to avoid food contamination), cost-effectiveness, customer service, refund policies, food tracking options, and reputation. Reading through online reviews of other customers who have already used a platform can give an idea about its service and credibility. Ordering only when hungry There are a few issues with this approach. One may end up making the wrong food choices in a hurry and experience frustration or impatience until the food arrives. Ordering at the last minute also means one may not eat when hungry, leading to loss of appetite when the food actually gets delivered. Not eating when hungry can also increase the production of cortisol in the body, causing stress.

A lot of hard work goes into saving money. It takes extensive planning, budgeting, and mindful spending. So, it is crucial that people put their money in the right savings account. Having a savings account is a great way of earning interest and moving faster towards one’s financial goal. However, people tend to make mistakes when selecting a savings account. Here are three mistakes to avoid while opening a savings account. Not shopping around It is always necessary to shop around for the kind of interest, perks, and security each bank or other financial organization has to offer. Avoid investing in the first one that catches the eye. Compare multiple savings accounts from different places to arrive at the right choice. Also, keep an eye on the fees, customer service, accessibility, interest rate, and any additional benefits. This research can go a long way in helping make the right decision. Only focusing on the interest There are times when people select a savings account that comes with an attractive interest rate. But later on, it could cost them in terms of fees for the account. While some savings accounts demand a one-time fee, others come with the caveat of an annual charge.

Debit cards are a common and convenient form of payment. They are a hassle-free and stress-free payment method and do not require loans or credits. People who are not fond of digital transactions can turn to debit cards for their needs. But before going down that path, it is essential to learn about the safe practices of using a debit card. One should avoid these common debit card mistakes for safe use. 1. Failing to check hidden fees Debit cards are associated with an existing bank account and usually do not carry any fees. However, some banks might add annual fees to the discussion. People need to ensure that the card they select does not carry any additional charges. Thoroughly read any paperwork before signing up for the card, and ensure no other hidden terms or fees exist. 2. Not having a plan Make sure to plan out expenses. Try segregating purchases and expenses based on the perks of using a debit card. People with more than one debit card can find this rewarding, as it can maximize their savings and rewards. For instance, customers planning to make a substantial purchase that they may have to return, should use credit cards instead of debit cards.

Buy now pay later, also called BNPL, is a convenient way for individuals to purchase items at the moment and pay for them gradually. This method of paying has become quite popular, especially for expensive electronics, as it allows one to get their dream device without feeling overburdened with its cost. It is paramount to be cautious when dealing with credit. Therefore, when opting for BNPL, it is necessary to avoid certain errors, such as: Ignoring the terms and conditions Many people find reading terms and conditions to be a tedious task. However, when it comes to money, ignoring them can be a costly mistake. This is especially true for Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) purchases. It is essential to carefully review all the plan details before agreeing. For example, if buying a phone, one should read the plan and understand what will be required to pay, how many installments to make, and what happens upon missing a payment. One should know several other important details before signing up for a BNPL plan. Missing payments One does not necessarily miss payment deadlines on purpose. It could happen due to several reasons, like busy schedules. However, if one forgets to pay or misses a deadline, the receiving company may charge late payment fees.

Most individuals who smoke know that it can pose a risk to their health. They are also aware that they should quit smoking, and if they do, their lungs will only get better. However, they might not know how to quit smoking for good or struggle to do so. Thankfully, there are quite a few ways that can help one quit for good. Some of these are mentioned below. 1. Start preparing The first step to quitting smoking is to find a strong enough reason that can motivate them to give up the habit. It can be anything; an individual may want to focus on their health. Once they have a solid reason and motivation to quit, they can pick a date to quit cold turkey or gradually reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke. This is a choice that should be made after talking to a doctor and factoring in one’s behavior patterns. Once the choice is made, individuals should get rid of smoke trays and any cigarettes lying around. Some people find it easier to distract themselves by eating something. 2. Seek support There are numerous offline and online support groups that people who are looking to quit smoking can benefit from.

Feet are often neglected when it comes to caring for the body, but if one faces issues with the limb, one will find it hard to move, run, or do any number of things. The constant strain on feet can increase tension and discomfort, affecting overall health. So, it’s a good idea to massage the feet on a routine basis and care for them. Here are four benefits of getting the feet massaged regularly: Helps with healthier feet Since a massage can help stimulate the feet, it may promote better foot health. A good massage helps relieve stiffness and tension and promotes better circulation and flexibility in one’s feet. The therapeutic measure could also help prevent foot-related complications like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and flat feet. Relieves nausea and pain Experts indicate that a foot massage could help relieve symptoms like nausea and pain, especially if the person experiences it because of emotional distress or sickness. Applying pressure to the top of the foot, below the area where the big toe meets the second toe, could stimulate organs, like the large intestines, heart, and stomach, which helps alleviate nausea and pain. Decreases blood pressure Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is usually triggered by lack of exercise, stress, and poor eating habits.

Foot massages can be incredibly soothing, especially after a long day at work. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to schedule a professional massage. In such cases, a foot massager can come in handy to help one unwind. Moreover, a foot massager is a convenient and cost-effective daily solution at home. However, one may make a few common mistakes while using a foot massager, and one should avoid them at all costs. Massaging for long While electric foot massagers can be very soothing, overuse or prolonged use can lead to discomfort and injury. For those new to using these devices, it is recommended to limit sessions to 10-15 minutes. As one becomes more experienced with foot massage, longer sessions may be possible, but it is generally advised to keep sessions shorter for maximum effectiveness. Exerting too much pressure Sometimes, one may apply too much pressure to certain parts of the feet that specifically hurt or are sore. It is a good idea to adjust the pressure and intensity of the massage for different parts, but pressure should be applied as needed. Not researching other options Selecting a foot massager requires considerable brand and product research because several types are available. Being fixated on a brand can limit one’s options.

Buying a new laptop is exciting, but zeroing in on one out of the multiple options available can be time-consuming. The whole purchasing process involves more than just looking at the specifications and features. While the innumerable laptop reviews online can help to some extent, there are certain common mistakes laptop buyers often make. To make an informed choice and avoid regrets, here are four common mistakes to avoid when purchasing a laptop. Not considering the laptop size Laptops come in a range of sizes. From 11-inch minis to 18-inch jumbos, one can look at a wide variety of laptops in the market. But before the purchase, it becomes highly crucial to consider the correct size. So whether it is about traveling with a laptop in a backpack or ensuring it perfectly fits the study table space, check the laptop size beforehand. Ignoring the ports Checking for required ports is one of the most important things to do when buying a laptop. Buyers should ensure that their laptop has enough USB ports, whether it comes with an HDMI or DisplayPort, and if there is a port to connect a microphone or earphone. Assuming every laptop has all the ports required for external devices is a common mistake that may lead to regret.

When it comes to receiving their salary, no employee wants to take risks. A single day’s delay can negatively impact the relationship between an individual and their employer. Thus, it is vital for business owners to avoid any payroll-related errors, as a single mistake can adversely affect the organization. Small businesses are more prone to such errors since they lack staff and software. So, here are three payroll errors to avoid for smooth operations. Incorrect employee classification People added to an organization’s payroll do not necessarily all belong to the same criteria. There is a chance that some individuals are contractors and some salaried employees. Despite most organizations having primarily salaried employees, not categorizing and listing the types and classification can get tricky. These nuanced details can later lead to prolonged procedures and the possibility of legal issues. Thus, business owners should carefully review the laws and guidelines while filling out the payroll details. If uncertain, they must seek advice from experts and speak to an attorney if needed. Not calculating overtime This is not just about simply forgetting to calculate the overtime, which is also a fairly common error. If there are miscalculations in calculating overtime, it can take weeks or even months for the issue to be rectified.

Vacation homes are used occasionally and can be great sources of income for property owners. Rather than letting it sit idle for months on end, renting it out does seem like a way to put it to good use. But renting out one’s home and inviting a revolving door of visitors comes with its unique set of challenges. Here are a few mistakes that those looking to rent out their vacation homes tend to make: 1. Neglecting legalities The laws on short-term rent can vary based on location. Not considering these laws before putting the property up for rent can lead to legal issues and even hefty fines. Homeowners must have the necessary license valid in the respective state or county before putting the property up for rent. 2. Not pricing it right This is a tricky one, especially if the vacation home is in a touristy area that attracts a lot of visitors. Overpricing to keep it exclusive can deter renters, while underpricing can attract the unsavory kind. So, the price should be competitive yet reasonable enough to appeal to renters. 3. Lack of property maintenance There’s nothing worse for those who rent out their vacation homes than receiving bad reviews for the property.

Dishwashers make household chores much easier for everyone. They do something that would normally take several minutes in a matter of seconds! However, using a dishwasher requires a little skill. People need to understand how the machine works to use it well. Those new to operating a dishwasher may make a few common mistakes that can significantly lower the appliance’s effectiveness, leave them with unclean dishes, and lead to frustration. Overcrowding the racks People who are in a hurry when using a dishwasher tend to overcrowd the racks. This is a massive error that can affect the machine’s ability to clean every utensil properly. Overcrowding causes the racks to be tightly packed, so the detergent does not reach the surface of every dish, causing uneven cleaning. To avoid this problem, people can leave sufficient spacing between utensils. The space allows the water and detergent to move freely throughout the machine. It maximizes the machine’s productivity and ensures all the dishes are cleaned perfectly. Using poor detergents Many people believe that all detergents are the same. But the truth is that there are clear differences between good and bad dishwashing detergents. For instance, the good ones are usually priced higher than the inferior ones.