Never Let Go – A Heart-Tugging Read Exploring The Impact of Cancers on Patients, Caregivers, & Family Life

Cancer is a pernicious disease that consumes the victim inside out. It not only affects their physical and mental health but has a drastic impact on the people around them. The mere idea of someone battling against cancer is enough to make one evaluate their entire life. However, the number of cancer survivors is increasing with evolving technology. But, still, there’s a lot that a family faces throughout the diagnosis and treatment. 

Cancer is more than an individual experience. The family members of the victim often feel the consequences of the disease. They go through different phases while adjusting to the ailment. Every family member will have their own reaction erupt in different forms: resentment, guilt, anger, and pain. 

It causes intense stress to all involved. The immediate need to face the stream of uneasiness and uncertainty about life can put the nerves to the test. You never are the same person. The procedures following regular treatment severely impact individual and collective lives. Many scientific pieces of research found that families of cancer affectees might go through conditions such as depression and anxiety. 

The roles of family members change according to the needs of the victim. The diagnosis stage involves mobilization, accommodation, and preparation to support the affected. Each phase of cancer is a learning curve for the family. Gathering information about different treatments, diagnoses, procedures, and chances of survival trains you to effectively combat the terminal illness. 

Many books and research pieces have indicated cancer’s severe consequences and effects. With Never Let Go, two ambitious writers from NorwayAnne Tolaas and Pia Helene, have leveraged the power of fiction to convey the impact cancer has on families. The fiction-centric tale narrates the story of twin brothers Joe and Louis. It sheds light on their sweet-and-sour bond and how certain unprecedented factors change their lives forever. 

The book takes a deep dive into the sudden change the family has to acclimate to when Joe is diagnosed with cancer. The teen duo has effortlessly blended bits of suspense and family drama to highlight an important, often unrecognized, understated issue. The book aims to bring the human side of disease and how cancer goes beyond affecting mere cells in the body. 

Never Let Go is a mix of emotions, struggles, and familial affection. It’s a story that aims to connect and provide solace to cancer patients and their families. The writers have elucidated the importance of family support and having loved ones around not just in sickness and misery but also in health and happiness.  

Anne says, “My goal with this heartwarming story is to connect with people like never before. My book is a way for me to understand the surroundings and appreciate the gifts of nature. Life is a beautiful gift, and each deserves to make the most of it despite the hardships.”

 

The book also emphasizes the importance of supporting family members during hardships. It beautifully portrays the firm bond that Louis and Joe share. Never Let Go pushes the readers not to let go of family and love. It sings an unsung song, a challenge not many find comfortable articulating intimately. The book has all the elements that make it an emotional rollercoaster bound to change a reader’s perspective on life. It is a kind of read that can push you to focus on your family life through a new lens. The book displays a transparent window. A door through which you can glimpse the struggles a family goes through with the patient. 

Anne and Pia have put the weight on strong characters like Joe and Louis to ensure that the story resonates with the masses. The unique storytelling style has made it a must-read for people going through the same ordeal. It also aims to help the readers understand what it takes to be there for a family facing an unprecedented tragedy. 

Anne Tolaas and Pia Helene’s passion for writing is evident, with each word representing a unique emotion. The authors have shockingly created a world filled with the essence of vulnerability and love, keeping readers hooked till the end. Their writing jolts caregivers’ emotions, giving them hope for a miracle.

The book may be a work of fiction, but it remains closely knit to the realities of life. It has everything that a reader craves – from delightful memories to tragic struggles. Never Let Go explores life’s unpredictabilities, existential dread, and the knowing that fates can change through sheer will and the stars unwritten in mere seconds. 

It is a provoking mix of events that can put you in a dilemma. It is a book that connects with people who have faced the worse in their lives. It aims to lend unconditional support to those facing similar circumstances. Never Let Go is a blend of words that can light your eyes up with hope.

Sophie Chalk’s Ethereal Photography Captures the Spirit of Old Hollywood

19th-century photography and its history have long fascinated photographers and art enthusiasts alike. The resulting art produced by these specialized processes brings to mind the allure and mysticism of “old-timey” Hollywood and silent films. These unique techniques, which were developed in the 1800s and involved the use of chemicals and specialized equipment, have a rich history and continue to be practiced by a small but dedicated group of contemporary photographers.

One of the most notable 19th-century photography processes is wet plate collodion. Developed in the 1850s, this technique involves coating a glass or metal plate with a thin layer of light-sensitive collodion and then exposing it to light while it is still wet. The plate is then developed in a darkroom using chemicals and fixed with a solution to prevent further exposure. The resulting images are often characteristically dreamy and ethereal, with a soft focus and a distinct, timeless quality.

While this art form may seem like relics of the past, they are still practiced by dedicated groups of contemporary photographers who are drawn to their unique aesthetic and historical significance. These photographers are often attracted to the tactile nature of the processes, which require the use of hands-on techniques and specialized equipment. They are also drawn to the sense of nostalgia and timelessness that these processes impart to their images.

Sophie Chalk is an emerging art photographer and portrait artist whose work seamlessly blends old and new world aesthetics. Based in New York, Chalk is known for their high-level technical skills and universal understanding of history, which they use to create a cohesive contemporary language and common experience for their viewers. In addition to their technical proficiency, Chalk is also known for their commitment to telling stories of LGBTQIA2S+ people and communities and for challenging the images we hold as historical record.

Sophie Chalk’s works are a reflection and reanimation of a history obscured by nostalgia and a longingness for an idealized Hollywood. Nostalgia, as some would say, is a dangerous thing, one that can wipe away the identity of queer people from the history they’re tied to. Sophie Chalk’s photographs are glimpses into the struggles of body acceptance- physical figures, arms, and the human body are a pivotal part of the expressions inherent in their artworks. Not only the visual aspect but the physical toll of the development process necessary to produce these photographs is pathos in itself.

One of Chalk’s notable career highlights is their mastery of an obscure 19th-century photography process that is considered one of the hardest in contemporary practice. They are also a recent graduate of the Parsons MFA program, which they completed online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chalk’s work has been exhibited in cities around the world, including Melbourne, Adelaide, Pingyao, Bandung, Minneapolis, New York, and Barcelona.

Chalk’s photographs are a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and their commitment to representing and amplifying marginalized voices is an integral part of their artistic practice. Their work challenges the narrow and often distorted portrayal of LGBTQIA2S+ people in mainstream media and historical record, and offers a more nuanced and authentic representation of the diversity and complexity of the community.

Through their art, Chalk invites viewers to engage with the past in a meaningful way, and to consider the ways in which history can inform and shape the present. By using their technical skills and artistic vision to breathe new life into old techniques, Chalk creates a bridge between the past and the present, and encourages us to think critically about the stories we tell and the images we hold dear.

Despite their many accomplishments, Chalk has faced significant challenges in their career, including coming to terms with their own queer identity and recognizing the value of their own work as an artist. 

In the coming years, Chalk hopes to see their work featured in editorials and galleries, and to have their portraiture practice recognized as reminiscent of old-world names like Edward Steichen, Madame d’Ora, Ruth Harriet Louise, and Cecil Beaton, while also emulating contemporaries like Catherine Opie, Jess T Dugan, and Jesse Egner. They also plan to launch an arts education podcast in January called “Art Lust Podcast,” which will be available on their social media channels.

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@darkroomvarmint 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiechalkstudio/

Cooli Highh Ends the Year with a Bang with the Release of His Much-Anticipated Album Trap Tape 2: Still Boomin

The year 2022 has been a remarkable time for new music. Several talented artists have unveiled chart-topping singles, groundbreaking albums, and unforgettable songs that it’s often hard to find a clear favorite among the handful of new releases. Just before 2022 ended, renowned hip-hop artist Cooli Highh managed to end the year on a high note, cementing his place as a triumphant artist in the scene with his highly acclaimed album Trap Tape 2: Still Boomin.

Every new Cooli Highh album is an avenue for Samuel Thomas Jones Jr. to reinvent himself and express his creative vision. Trap Tape 2 is once again a remarkable collection of songs that tells a bold, independent statement in the ever-growing music industry. In his latest release, Cooli Highh shares his astounding growth as an artist by disclosing his life’s ups and downs and his experiences with toxic relationships, among many others. 

The San Diego-based music artist, content creator, and A&R representative brings a fresh take on the scene with his latest release. Partnering with incredible artists and industry staples such as Mark Battles, Big K.R.I.T., Mario, Fiend aka International Jones, and his close friend Rockie Fresh, Cooli Highh brings an unprecedented level of hype to the hip-hop game with Trap Tape 2

Lovers of Hip-Hop, Rap, and R&B will find plenty of things to love with Cooli Highh’s year-end effort. Trap Tape 2 brings all the classic Cooli Highh elements into the mix with an added layer of complexity, beauty, and slick beats that go along with a velvety production. With such highly acclaimed features present in the album, Cooli Highh has undoubtedly elevated the music game by combining the artists’ talents and bringing them into his element.

Not a single featured artist disappoints throughout Cooli Highh’s latest album, bringing their classic sound while seamlessly blending into the beautiful cohesion of Trap Tape 2. Possessing a clear artistic vision, uncompromising talent, and a passion for music, Cooli Highh has proven once again that he truly brings out the best in the people he works with. 

Trap Tape 2 makes a powerful case in the music industry by being a great transition into the new year. Released on December 31, 2022, the album stands between the greatness of 2022 and the future of good music in 2023. Ushering in a new era of hip-hop and beyond, Cooli Highh has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry as he continues to delve into his impassioned musical prospects.

When asked what motivated him to build his brand, the talented Cooli Highh simply responded, “I built my own brand to uplift people who have a dream and want to chase it. I want to show them that even if it’s hard and starts off slow, if you really want it, you can get it.” With such an inspiring story behind the man himself, Cooli Highh has definitely grown into an artist to look out for in 2023 and beyond.

How This New Jersey Top Medical Spa Helps You Do 20,000 Crunches During A Lunch Break

Lotus Health & Aesthetics Medical Spa is a luxurious and serene spa that offers a variety of services to help you feel and look your best. Their team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality treatments in a relaxing and rejuvenating environment.

Lotus Health & Aesthetics is located in the heart of Red Bank, New Jersey. The spa was carefully designed to create a peaceful and calming atmosphere, where clients can come relax and unwind while receiving the best possible care. They are known for using only the highest quality products and equipment to ensure that you receive the best results possible. At Lotus, they provide a complete healing experience for their clients to relax, rejuvenate and pamper themselves. This means working with beautifying the body from within and then from the outside.   

Founded by Neelam Chopra, who has been in the beauty industry since 2016. Neelam believes in top-quality services and always monitors how the beauty aesthetic industry expands. Beauty aesthetics refer to the principles and ideals that guide the creation and appreciation of beauty in various forms. These principles can vary depending on cultural and personal preferences, but generally include a focus on symmetry, balance and proportion. Neelam’s attention to detail and education keeps Lotus Spa clients with the latest technology of beauty there is. With so many options to choose from, this spa is a popular destination for individuals looking to pamper themselves and feel their best. With their expertise and combination of medical professionals, estheticians, massage therapists and registered nurses, Lotus Health & Aesthetics is a one-stop spa experience unlike any other and a spa that makes you feel at ease.

Their most sought-after treatment and highly recommended is celebrity favorite, EmSculpt NEO. 

Emsculpt Neo is a non-invasive body sculpting treatment that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to stimulate muscle contractions and build muscle mass. The treatment is designed to target specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs, and can help to improve muscle tone and definition. This is the first and only non-invasive body shaping procedure that provides simultaneous fat elimination and muscle building in a combined 30-minute session. 

EmSculpt NEO has proven to reduce 30% subcutaneous fat, 15% visceral fat, and 25% growth in muscle in just four sessions. Through radio-frequency (RF) technology, EmSculpt NEO targets and destroys fat cells, while High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) field technology increases muscle growth. You can simply lie back and relax as the proprietary EmSculpt NEO device does all the hard work for you. These are no ordinary muscle contractions. Instead, EmSculpt NEO triggers supra-maximal muscle contractions, which substantially impact the target muscle group more than humanly possible during regular exercises, that’s 20,000 crunches in just a lunch break!

In addition to providing body contouring treatments, Lotus Health & Aesthetics offers a wide variety of skincare treatments that can help to improve the health and appearance of the skin. These include: Hydrafacial, Micro-Needling, Ultherapy, Laser Facials, Fillers, Botox, Non-Surgical Thread Lifts and Chemical Peels. Lotus offers many specific treatments targeted towards each unique individual that can be used to address specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, sun damage and acne.

There are also many benefits to visiting a spa, both physically and mentally. Some of the top benefits include:

  1. Relaxation: One of the main reasons people visit a spa is to relax and unwind. Spa treatments, such as massages and facials, can help reduce stress and tension in the body, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation.
  2. Improved circulation: Massages and other spa treatments can help improve circulation in the body, which can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
  3. Improved sleep: Spa treatments, such as massages and facials, can help relax the body and mind, leading to improved sleep patterns.
  4. Improved skin health: Spa treatments, such as facials and body wraps, can help improve the health and appearance of the skin by exfoliating and nourishing the skin with essential oils and other natural ingredients.
  5. Improved physical and mental well-being: Spa treatments can help improve physical and mental well-being by reducing stress, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation.
  6. Socialization: Visiting a spa can be a great way to socialize and bond with friends or loved ones, as many spas offer couples treatments and group packages.
  7. Personal pampering: Spa treatments can be a great way to indulge in some self-care and pampering, helping you feel rejuvenated and refreshed.  
  8. Non-surgical Procedures: Many spas are able to create the beauty people want without going under the knife.

We invite you to come and experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at Lotus Health & Aesthetics Medical Spa. Contact Lotus today to schedule your appointment and start your journey to a healthier and more beautiful you!

God’s Grace Is What All Humans Need

God is gracious! He loves His people and is always there for them whether they ask for Him or not. No one can remain without fruits in the garden of God’s grace. Sometimes, life puts people in stressful situations, and the trauma leads them to believe there is no way out. But all of a sudden, they observe things getting resolved. They find the reasons for happiness even after suffering from extreme tragedies. The pain is relieved, injuries are healed, diseases are cured, and problems are solved eventually. It all happens because God is always there. He showers His blessings and grace on His people. Nothing can happen without His will. He shows miracles and helps His people when they lose all their hopes.

When nothing works out and things become helpless, humans seek God’s Grace. We hope for His grace because we know He is Gracious. It is in His attributes. Graciousness is not something that He puts on or takes off, depending on the situation. In fact, He is always Gracious. Whether people seek His grace or don’t believe in Him, He doesn’t leave humans alone. He demonstrates grace in everything He does. Every good thing happens to humans that’s because of God’s grace. He is there to sort things out when things don’t go well. All we need to do is trust Him. Hope should always be alive.

God’s miracle doesn’t require any scientific reasons. They just happen when He wants. Everything in this world is temporary; money is not eternal, and fame doesn’t offer eternal life. Even this world is mortal, and it has to end one day. But God is always there; He will give His people eternal life.

Nothing is in human control; there is always a major power, which is God’s grace. It is His grace that allows humans to achieve what they want. God’s grace is not just for humans but for all His creatures. The little birds leave their nest in the morning and return in the evening without thinking of restoring food for the next day. They leave the next morning and still get the food for the day. How does it happen? It’s God who feeds them. Not just the birds, but the entire universe. Small insects living in the stones always find a way to survive, whether rain or storm. God is gracious, and His grace is for everyone! God’s grace is all humans need to survive, stay happy, and find eternal life.

Humans breathe, think, walk, talk, and do everything because of Him. We, humans, owe Jesus. In order to thank God, the author, Lizabeth Cuenya, has published a book based on God’s grace. She wants to let the readers know about God’s blessings and miracles that she experienced throughout her life. She authored this book to spread the message of how God can cure the disease, heal the injured, relieve sorrow, and bring happiness to human life. Lizabeth has gone through several tragic incidents, but due to God’s grace, she is now breathing, walking, and even smiling. The book depicts her life experiences on why humans solely depend on God’s grace. He is always gracious.

A Mother, Police Officer and Death Doula

Being a woman is both difficult and a blessing. Women are considered the backbone of not just a family but the entire society. They build a family, prepare food, educate their children, and make them productive for society. There are a number of responsibilities that women need to fulfill, and the most important one is being a mother. No one loves unconditionally except for mother; she sacrifices her own happiness to ensure her children’s best life. In this world, no one’s love can be compared to a mother’s love, which is pure, sincere, and unconditional. The responsibilities of mothers cannot be counted on fingers; even if they are housewives, they are busy taking care of their children and cooking meals for them. A mother’s job is difficult, and it becomes tougher for working mothers. Being a responsible mother while contributing to society is not everyone’s capacity. They look after their families very well and perform great jobs in their profession. One such example comes from a working mother, Nicole Thrones; she is a mother, a former police officer, and a death doula. Nicole is a role model for all women around the globe, willing to do something for society while raising their kids the best way.

Life is never easy; there are obstacles on the path, and only those achieve their dreams successfully who are passionate about it. Passion allows people to stay committed to their dreams and never lets them give up easily. No matter how big the responsibilities are, with patience and consistent effort, one can achieve whatever they want to. Life is all about being happy and gaining satisfaction. Both happiness and satisfaction come with success and helping others. Those who stay committed to their dreams might reach their destination slowly, but they achieve in the end. Nicole is an example. In the middle of her college days, Nicole became a mother. Now she had kids to look after and a dream to pursue. Unlike others, she could have given up on her studies to focus on her children. But she chose to manage both things the best way. When she realized her kids needed more attention, she took a break from her studies but didn’t give it up. She managed time and later successfully pursued her Criminal Justice degree from Wor Wic Community College. Born on January 9, 1980, Nicole Thrones is not just a mother but a former police officer working as a mother of society. She joined the police with a passion for helping people. She still believes that one who helps others in their needs lives a satisfying life. This was the reason she chose the police career and later became a death doula with the same intention of helping others and supporting dying and their families.

In her early career, she worked as a sales clerk at Barb’s Gift & Hallmark. Then she studied criminal justice to develop her career as a police. While raising kids and serving as a police officer, she always believed in bringing peace to her society and helping people in their time of need. Unfortunately, an injury ended her career. Despite going through medical retirement, she did not stop. Although she couldn’t continue contributing to society being a police officer due to a career-ending injury, she had other ways. She didn’t give up and started her new career as a death doula. She finds satisfaction in helping people and is doing so in the death industry by comforting and supporting the dying and their families. Nicole is a woman of ambition, dreams, and kindness. She is a mother, a former police officer, and a death doula, creating an example for women around the world.

Top Manifestation Coach, Regan Hillyer, On Living Life With An Impact

Regan Hillyer is the creator of Millions, Manifesting, and Magic. She helps people all over the world transform their mindsets and learn to attract abundance into their lives. If you are ready to make your dreams come true and uplift others along the way, you’ve come to the right place.

With the end of the year quickly approaching, it’s important that you pause for a moment to think about the type of impact you made this year. How many people did you uplift or support? How many times did you stop to smile at a stranger, donate to a cause you care about or support someone in need?

Each day, let alone month or year, presents an opportunity for us to make a difference in the lives of others. And with the right resources, the possibilities are truly endless. For some of us, though, who may not have the tools or resources, supporting others seems like a far-fetched dream.

Life can be difficult, and sometimes it’s hard to even support ourselves. There are bills to pay, struggles to overcome in our personal lives, and seemingly not enough time to do the things we love. 

But if you feel this way, let me be the first to tell you that you do possess the power to not only change your own life, but the lives of so many others. Outside circumstances can feel overbearing, but the power you have within can change that. 

Whether you believe it or not, you can attract immense abundance into your life and change the world in a positive way. You have to set an intention that you declare change, embody it, and live your life vibrating at that frequency.

These tips on attracting success into one’s life are taught by Regan Hillyer, a manifestation coach, author, and entrepreneur, who helps people break out of limiting beliefs so they can lead the life of their dreams, follow their purpose, and inspire others to do the same.

And this begs the question, what is your purpose? And what type of legacy do you want to really leave behind? If you want to show that anything is possible, dreams do come true, and you want to inspire the next generation of individuals to go after their goals, it’s important for you to embody that and make a change now. 

Sourced Photo

“Success is 80% crafting and creating this internal reality and 20% what we then do on the outside,” Hillyer says. She explains that your thoughts help to create your reality. So if you are constantly thinking negative thoughts, or have limiting beliefs, the actions you take will be aligned with that, and so will your experience of life.

But Hillyer challenges you to break out of that habit. If you want a different outcome, you have to adopt a different perspective, and once you change your mindset, you’ll realize that the life you’ve always wanted has been within reach. 

“So many people are disconnected from what they actually want,” Hillyer says. We often have childhood conditioning saying, ‘no, that dream is too crazy; it’s too big. Or that’s impossible, no one in our family has done that. Who are you to think that, want that or ask for that?’” she continues.

“I remember moments where people would be like, ‘what do you want to create in your life?’ And then I started getting curious, and I realized I had a lot of this conditioning. And so for me, I would sit down and I would ask myself, okay, if I am totally organic, with what I desire to call in or create in my life, what would my life look like?” she adds.

When thinking about it, Hillyer would start journaling, and says that by doing that, or creatively expressing yourself or meditating, can help you start feeling differently and thinking differently about your life and what’s possible.

“If my life is like this, that means it could also be like this or it could be like that,” she says. “You begin to play this game almost like a child where you give yourself permission to dream again. It’s really important as you do this because you start tapping into the feeling of it. And from what I’ve noticed, the more clear and the more precise someone can be with their vision, the faster it tends to manifest. And this is not about knowing how it’s going to manifest. It’s not like, oh, okay, well, I want to manifest $100,000 this way. No, I just choose $100,000 will flow into my reality, and I’m going to allow it to happen however it does,” she concludes.

So think about the impact you’d like to make in 2023. What type of life do you want to live? How many lives do you want to change, and how are you going to change them? A new year presents a fresh start to set an intention for what goals you’d like to achieve, and with Regan Hillyer’s teachings, those goals are well within reach. 

If you resonate with the philosophies presented here, be sure to sign up for Hillyer’s Millions, Manifesting, and Magic mastermind, which can help you implement these teachings into your life right away, and get a head start on making your dreams a reality. 

Why Unified CEO, Robert Nikic Dropshipping Millionaire on Why Your Dropshipping Business Isn’t Successful

Image Commercially Licensed From: Unsplash

When it comes to dropshipping, the misinformation floating around the internet is astounding. Unfortunately, a great deal of this misinformation comes from the companies who promise to make the process easier. Robert Nikic is the founder and CEO of Why Unified, a dropshipping platform designed to cut through misinformation and give entrepreneurs the real tools they need to succeed. 

According to Robert Nikic, there are seven major reasons why dropshippers aren’t successful, and some of them might surprise you.

Reason #1: You Don’t Treat it Like a Real Business

All too often, dropshippers launch their online stores, then fail to run those stores like an actual business. Robert can’t count the number of times he’s seen dropshipping ventures fail because the entrepreneurs behind them treated them more like hobbies than businesses.

“If you’re going to open an e-commerce store, you should treat it like you’re opening a bricks-and-mortar retail store. You have to make sure the layout is well-designed. You have to source the best possible suppliers and offer your customers the best possible prices. You have to do some marketing and let people know you exist. These things ultimately lead to your success; failing to do them will be your downfall. A dropshipping store is a  business, and you should always treat it as such,” Robert says. 

Reason #2: You Let Social Media Influence Your Expectations

If you spend much time watching Facebook Reels, TikToks, or Instagram Stories about dropshipping, you’ve probably seen people claiming they became millionaires in two months. Every once in a while, a dropshipper will experience sensational success, but it’s very, very rare. Going into a dropshipping venture with huge expectations will only let you down in the end. 

Robert elaborated on this. “One of our Why Unified clients chose us to help market their business with our Ads Plan. Although we work very hard to set the proper expectations, this particular client had been immersed in social media to the point that he believed he would see thousands of dollars in profit in the first week. This client’s advertising budget was $78, and that advertising was for a $50 bowl and spoon set. When the thousands in profits didn’t materialize in that first week, this client was furious with us. He blamed us for his “failure,” cancelled his Ads Plan, and gave up on dropshipping altogether. The worst part? He actually made some profit that week – more profit than he had ever made! Thanks to social media and false expectations, it wasn’t enough.”

“It’s unfortunate, because many of the people who are giving up on dropshipping due to failed expectations have the potential to be incredibly successful. We have to stop letting these unrealistic expectations rule over us. It’s like the fashion industry creating the stigma that people are only attractive if they’re a specific shape and size. It’s just not true, and this stigma does more harm than good.” 

Reason #3 – You Invest More in Yourself than Your Business

Any business requires investment, and that includes dropshipping. It can be a little tricky for entrepreneurs in dropshipping because there’s so little physical and logistical involvement. They aren’t doing the inventory counts or picking and packing orders, so the “out of sight, out of mind” adage rings especially true. Robert says this is a common downfall among dropshippers. 

“Just because you don’t have to rent the warehouse or pay employees to pick and pack orders, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t invest in your business,” says Robert. “Dropshippers won’t hesitate to spend thousands of dollars on a tool that promises to make website integration easier, but they balk at paying someone to help them with marketing or supplier acquisition. If you’re going to be a successful dropshipper, you have to invest in your business, and for many entrepreneurs, that means paying for expert marketing, supply chain management, and more.”

Reason #4 – You Follow Trends, but Don’t Create Them

When a dropshipping entrepreneur does enjoy seemingly overnight success, it’s generally because something about their store has gone viral and people want to be in on the action. Stores don’t enjoy viral status for following trends; they go viral because they create the trends. 

“Jumping on a trend bandwagon can be profitable,” claims Robert, “but the most successful entrepreneurs are the ones who create the trends rather than following them. Choose an industry and niche for your dropshipping store, then do some research to find out what you can do to help people within that industry solve problems. You’re selling more than just products. You’re selling solutions to people’s problems. Look for new ways to do that, and you’ll be setting trends in no time. That’s where the real success lies.”

Reason #5 – You Lack Discipline and Hard Work Ethic 

If you think opening and managing a successful online store is a piece of cake, think again. Robert – and many other successful entrepreneurs – will be the first to tell you that discipline and hard work are required. If you’re going to succeed, be prepared to spend a great deal of time learning about your industry, researching your audience, reaching out to potential suppliers, writing blog posts, engaging with social media followers, and more. 

Robert is no stranger to hard work. “Why Unified wasn’t something I put together overnight. It is the culmination of years of trial and error in dropshipping. If I had given up the first time I experienced hardship, there would be no Why Unified. The best way to build discipline and work ethic is to find your why. Why are you opening an online store? Why did you choose to open a store in this industry or niche? In my case, I wanted a stable income for my family, and I wanted to help people who were falling victim to the false promises being made by dropshipping giants. When I had a bad day, or when something wasn’t going my way, I reminded myself of these things.”

Reason #6 – You Don’t Truly Love Dropshipping

Imagine going to a sushi restaurant that’s owned and managed by someone who doesn’t even like sushi. What would you expect to find? The same can be said for e-commerce entrepreneurs. If you don’t love dropshipping – including the potential and possibilities it brings – your dropshipping business venture isn’t likely to be very successful. 

“When I founded Why Unified, it was because I loved the concept of dropshipping. Absolutely anyone could open an online store and be successful with enough patience and hard work, even if they don’t have much to invest in the beginning. I loved dropshipping enough to know that Why Unified’s competitors were preying on entrepreneurs’ hopes and dreams. They were selling false promises. Eventually, when I couldn’t find a single solution that actually lived up to its claims, I knew I had to change the entire industry. Why Unified does that, and to date, it’s helped 20,000 dropshippers across the globe succeed.

Before you even think about opening an e-commerce store, make sure you sell products you love. Make sure you love the industry, and make sure you love the idea of entrepreneurialism in general. If you’re skeptical, you’ll only hold yourself back.” 

Who is Robert Nikic?

Robert Nikic has always been driven to succeed. He was born in the country once known as Yugoslavia, but immigrated to the United States due to war when he was very young. He worked as a server at various luxury hotels and resorts to pay the bills, and eventually he started his own marketing business. Today, Robert refers to that first business as a “proudly failed venture.” 

Later, in 2011, Robert founded Why Unified as a marketing platform aimed toward entrepreneurs in e-commerce. As the years passed and dropshipping grew more popular, he saw Why Unified’s true potential, and in 2018, his Why Unified platform completely disrupted and transformed dropshipping as we know it. He started his own dropshipping store to put his creation to the test, and within three years, he had earned $2 million. He sold that company for double its value, convinced that Why Unified really was the solution to every major dropshipping woe, and doubled down on his efforts to make it the best dropshipping platform on the market. 

The Dropship plan – which is currently Why Unified’s most popular and beloved plan – utilizes the same techniques that Robert employed to generate $2 million in revenue with his own store. To date, this plan has led to the success of thousands of independent dropshippers around the world, and its popularity continues to grow in the dropshipping community. 

Shepherd Search Group Continues to Expand Globally

Shepherd Search Group has become a name frequently heard in the conference rooms of corporations and on the cell phones of CEOs looking to make a major impact. Shepherd has an outstanding reputation acting as the Power Broker for today’s professionals. As a global leader in the executive search & recruitment world, Shepherd’s focus is not only in talent acquisition but also in organizational development, training, recruitment process outsourcing, and a suite of HR services. With a retention rate second to none, Shepherd is putting its money where its mouth is and showing corporations and nonprofits alike how to recruit, retain and motivate their employees. Moreover, the search firm has been continuing to expand its global presence, opening offices in three new countries over the last nine months. After a record year, Shepherd Search Group is spreading its wings across the globe, providing its services to businesses domestically and across the globe.

As of this writing, the firm operates from four continents and in more than 20 major cities worldwide, including San Diego, Manchester (UK), New York, Manila, St. Louis, Dubai, Mexico City, Palm Beach, and, most recently, Taipei. They’ve acquired 12 talent solution firms specializing in over 15 different disciplines, including but not limited to healthcare, regulatory affairs, engineering, wealth management, finance, dermatology & aesthetics, optics & photonics, social services, and nonprofits with a recent acquisition of The Joel Paul Group, an executive search firm serving nonprofit organizations just last week.

Spearheading this transformation is Shepherd Search Group’s President and CEO, David Gantshar. His experience in the field and vast knowledge give him an upper hand and make all this possible. David Gantshar has been in the staffing/recruitment industry for more than two decades and has built a reputation as a leader in the field. He has a deep understanding of the various aspects of staffing and recruitment, including talent acquisition, employee retention, and talent management, and has developed strong relationships with industry professionals and clients, allowing him to effectively connect top talent with top companies.

David is the founder of Shepherd Search Group and the Shepherd Group of Companies. Under his leadership, the company has twice been recognized as one of the 1000 fastest-growing privately-owned search firms by Inc. Magazine (2017, 2019) and will no doubt be there again this coming year. David is also the founder of Merraine Group Inc, which inspired the creation of Shepherd Search. Merraine Group was started in 2001 after many years in the corporate world. Identifying a critical need within the talent acquisition space, David worked quickly to launch the firm initially as a regional healthcare staffing firm – based in New York. Working alongside his wife and his mother, the family business grew into a national firm in less than twenty-four months.   

After growing Merraine Group to national prominence, David formed Shepherd Search Group in 2013. The goal was to help companies fill critical positions with exceptional talent while seeking out specialty recruitment firms looking to add market share. David and his rapidly growing team began acquiring struggling companies focused on executive search, interim leadership, and permanent placement. Time and time again, the results – post-acquisition – exceeded everyone’s expectations. Known today as a Talent Scout for tomorrow’s leaders, both Shepherd and Merraine have been widely acclaimed by thousands of companies and organizations in more than 40 countries.

Their approach to talent sourcing sets them apart. For the team at Shepherd Search Group, sourcing talent is more about finding the unusual chemistry that occurs when building a cohesive leadership team than seeking out a singular skill set. Shepherd prioritizes one-on-one communication over electronic communication, helping them to understand industry leaders on an entirely different level.  

According to David, their goal is to lead positive change in today’s corporate world but also to ensure a different kind of leader for tomorrow. “Staffing has not seen the consolidation so many other industries have. Unfortunately, anyone can call themselves a ‘recruiter.’ For a firm like ours, success isn’t measured by one placement. It’s measured by how quickly an organization can adapt, how those we have placed have performed over time, and where Shepherd has left an indelible impression. If we’ve done our job properly, we’ve not only placed candidates an organization would not have found on their own but we’ve helped them to view their team a little differently and to perform at a higher level.”

“The most talented individual will fail in the wrong setting so ensuring both parties have their expectations met is something we excel in. This means our process has to work in not only sourcing highly sought after candidates, but in ensuring the firms we represent are the very best at what they do.” 

With their continued expansion, Shepherd Search Group will continue to blaze a trail not only here in the USA but across the globe. True to their name, these Shepherds are the leaders of a new generation of business leaders.  

Temu Logs 50 Million Monthly Website Visits as Consumers Hunt for E-Commerce Deals

Temu catapulted into the ranks of the most visited websites in the world, just four months after the launch of the e-commerce platform.

Temu (pronounced tee-moo) logged 50.5 million monthly visits by December, registering a 91% month-on-month growth, according to traffic figures from Crunchbase. That made Temu the 1,937th ranked website globally, out of the estimated 1.1 billion websites globally.

The website traffic mirrored the surge in Temu’s mobile apps downloads. Launched in September 2022, Temu took just two months to become the most installed app in America in any category with 10.8 million downloads from Nov. 1 to Dec. 14, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing data from Sensor Tower.

Beyond just the ultracompetitive prices, consumers have also taken to Temu because of its generous polices on returns as retailers elsewhere are going the opposite way of making customers pay. CNN reported that Zara, H&M, J.Crew, Anthropologie, Abercrombie & Fitch and other chains are now charging customers fees of up to $7 to return items online.

With Temu’s Purchase Protection program, buyers can receive a full refund if their item does not arrive, is not as described on the platform, or arrives damaged. Most items can be returned within 90 days. Additionally, Temu provides a credit of $5-$13 for any order that arrives late.

`Excellent Experience’

Valencia Miller is among millions of consumers who have shopped on Temu and came away pleasantly surprised.

“I’ve received several items from Temu and was pleasantly surprised! The shipping time was very fast. I received my items in about a week and the quality was great!” said Miller in a Trustpilot review. “Free shipping and coupons on top of their already low prices. Thanks TEMU for an excellent shopping experience!”

Temu owes its meteoric rise to the strong backing of its parent company, PDD Holdings (NASDAQ: PDD), which made its NASDAQ debut in 2018 and has a market capitalization of $100 billion. 

With over a decade of experience in the commerce and trade industry, PDD Holdings has established partnerships with 11 million global suppliers and brands. Its extensive sourcing, fulfillment, and logistics network benefits Temu, which has been able to scale up its product range rapidly and provide reliable fulfillment services from the start. 

Interests Align

As a pure platform, Temu’s interests are also aligned with both consumers and sellers. Without its own brands, Temu does not compete with the merchants its hosts in selling products to the same consumers. Quite the opposite, Temu provides consumer data insights to its sellers to help them better match their products to consumer needs when and where they need it. 

The pure e-commerce platform model and the use of advanced technology has enabled companies, especially rising stars in e-commerce marketplaces like Temu, to flourish. 

By connecting sellers directly to consumers, the sellers can increase their reach and exposure to their target customers, improve their product offerings and customer satisfaction, as well as make more effective, informed internal and external company decisions. 

Customer Value

So, what does this mean for Temu customers moving forward? It is a path of greater emphasis on customer value – giving them even more of what they want, when they want it and how they want it. 

As Chen Lei, CEO of PDD Holdings, put it: “We fully respect that there are many differences across different markets. And we also understand the need to constantly experiment, and we expect that the process will be full of challenges.”

“We will be patient and work together with our partners to create long-term value for consumers,” he added.