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Fasting is the intentional choice of abstaining from foods and liquids for a specific period of time. The time duration and the type of fasting is determined by the individual’s objective for the fast. People fast for all types of reasons, a few include medical reasons (e.g. blood testing), health management and spiritual reasons. As with any activity which involves physical, emotional and mental health, it is strongly advised to check with a licensed medical practitioner when embarking upon a new regimen. One avenue to accommodate an individual’s needs does not equate to one size fit all.
In today’s age people are seeking quick-fix health remedies to offset years of negligence, or even oversight. It’s never too late to embrace a responsible approach to improving one’s health. Some folks are simply exploring new potential remedies to integrate in their wellness lifestyle. Apply discretion when choosing which activity can help fulfill one’s health and wellness needs because fasting is not meant for everyone. It’s not an exclusive activity but it does require due diligence to understand whether it serves as a viable solution to enhance one’s well-being. Managing one’s food and stimuli consumption over an extended time period can yield positive side effects within the human body. The benefits translate to the external physical body which reflects the internal organs optimally functioning to detox and rejuvenate the body on a cellular level. Per the National Institute of Health and the Mayo Clinic, the list of fasting benefits extracted from historical studies vary based on the context of the study. Examples of Fasting Benefits:
Below are three types of fasting methods that I periodically integrate to manage my overall health and wellness. Three Types of Fasting
From personal experience, I’ve successfully fasted by observing dry fasting, the 18:6 / 20:4 / 22:2 initiatives and the Daniel Fast. I’ve also entertained a 72 hour fast to reset the body while encouraging autophagy prior to resuming a healthier food consumption pattern following the holidays. Per the Cleveland Clinic, autophagy is defined as a process which allows the human body to break down and reuse old cell parts so the body’s cells can function more efficiently. These wide variety of fasting schedules accommodate different lifestyles and wellness goals when implemented with mindful precision and care. I welcome the opportunity to fast when the body needs a reset from the physical demands of life as well when fasting delivers a retreat for strengthening my faith and self-development. Over the decades I’ve been able to refine my fasting strategy to yield sustainable results. As with everything in life, our literal and metaphorical self-care requires maintenance. Nothing pertaining to our wellness can improve on auto pilot, we’re expected to focus our efforts to nourish our best selves. Maintenance of our health is a 24/7 responsibility regardless of what priorities and distractions are unfolding in our lives. Remember — first, we need to become healthy in order to pursue any wellness goal. Often, people think they need to reach their wellness goal in order to become healthy. The latter is the reason why people can’t maintain their results. For example, if one is pursuing weight loss then they need to become healthy as a baseline to produce long term results. If the subject matter lacks a healthy benchmark to work from then they will likely struggle more with achieving the results and/or the results will be short lived because the root cause(s) of their weight gain need to be addressed. Unfortunately, we can’t spot gain our goals, and spot reduce our blind spots. Inner work needs to be done through reflection and revisiting our mental & emotional health. Wellness works like a well assembled orchestra — the body must flow with the energy of life. Our bodies are in search of a rhythm that works to support its optimal survival and maintenance. This is why we need to become healthy first. Wellness goals need to be approached with an intentional strategy if the participants are serious about their short term and long term goal actualization. Audiences should understand that fasting is not a substitute for ignoring other areas of self-care. It can serve as a supplement to enhance one’s ability to improve their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual care. Results may vary for participants based on their initial health condition, their mindset (including their self cultivated beliefs), and the level of their commitment when honoring their chosen fasting program. Exercise care and thoughtful planning before committing to any health and wellness regimen. Meet Our Contributor — Sasha Laghonh Sasha is the Founder of Sasha Talks, an educational and entertainment platform that integrates professional and self development into nurturing meaningful outcomes. She serves as a Senior Advisor to C-Suite executives and entrepreneurs among multiple industries. As a speaker, host and author, she partners alongside clients, from individuals to organizations, to capitalize upon their talent. To learn more, visit www.sashatalks.com.
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 Credit: Jean Christophe Gabler | Founder, Yogi Times What Play Looks Like When People Actually Use It
There’s a design studio in Lisbon we’ve worked with that holds a weekly half-hour called Creative Decay. There’s no structure beyond a prompt. Each person makes something that does not serve any project. A designer once built a fake airline campaign for jellyfish migration. A copywriter wrote marketing slogans for boredom. These sessions are private. No one presents. There is no feedback. After a few months, meetings got shorter. Projects had more texture. The team lost that edge of fatigue that had been creeping in. The work didn’t speed up. The resistance dropped. Another example came from a community wellness hub in Oaxaca. A team member started running ten-minute “wrong solutions” sessions. Each week, one person shared a challenge and the rest offered the worst possible ideas. It broke the script. It got people laughing. It made hard conversations easier. The practice became something people looked forward to. No one kept track. They just kept showing up. Physical Space That Holds Room for Play There’s a coworking space in Kyoto that created a table with no instructions. They called it the Wild Table. It rotated materials daily. Colored string, dried plants, paper scraps, wax, thread, driftwood. People touched, arranged, reworked, or just sat beside it. Over time, it became the place where people started their day before logging in. It gave them a pause that didn’t feel prescribed. When we visited, several members said they used the table to mark the shift between outside life and work mode. Not many said they were “playing.” But that is what they were doing. At YOGI TIMES, we host seven-minute resets during print week. There is sound, open space, no structure. People move if they want. No one explains what they are doing. We begin again when the room feels softer. That pause reshapes how we move through the rest of the day. It doesn’t need a plan. It just needs to be there. What Play Gives Without Being Asked People who practice consistent, low-pressure play tend to make fewer reactive decisions. Their tone shifts. Their work becomes easier to share. Collaboration improves because people have more room to listen. Most of what gets labeled as burnout begins with the loss of that access point. The loss of play begins quietly. People become more efficient but less available. They keep showing up but stop experimenting. That shift has nothing to do with workload. It comes from emotional fatigue. Play, when integrated with care, allows people to stay human inside their work. They recover energy without needing time away. They reconnect with a part of themselves that does not require praise or permission. That part holds everything together when things get heavy. Meet Our Contributor — Jean Christophe Gabler J.C. Gabler is a passionate writer and wellness advocate. With a diverse background in mindfulness, yoga, and holistic living, he shares insights to inspire and uplift readers. His work emphasizes the importance of balance, wellness, and personal growth, making him a trusted voice in the wellness community. Learn more about Jean and his work at Yogitimes.  Credit: Style My Soul, www.stylemysoul.com | Innovative Products and Services in 10 Years Unveiling a future shaped by innovation, professionals share groundbreaking products and services forecasted to emerge, underpinned by insights. Simplicity and clarity guide the exploration of these potential game-changers, from AI-powered tools to sustainable living solutions.
VR-Driven Personal Training Apps In the next decade, I foresee the emergence of VR-driven personal training apps that integrate with your biometric data to provide customized, immersive workout experiences. Imagine VR headsets paired with AI algorithms analyzing real-time heart rates, muscle responses, and endurance levels to create workout routines customized to your physiological needs. This innovation can revolutionize not only personal fitness but also how we perceive and engage with exercises. My experience shows the transformative potential of combining emerging technologies like AI for improved user engagement. Similar principles can be applied to create these VR fitness apps, by using AI to adapt routines based on daily performance and interactive feedback. These tools could make fitness more accessible and personalized, mirroring how we’ve used AI to foster custom digital marketing strategies. Consider how app development collaborations have advanced mobile marketing tactics; similar tech partnerships could drive VR fitness apps’ success. By making data-driven adjustments to workout plans, users could achieve optimal fitness results, just as we optimize digital campaigns. - Rodney Moreland, Founder, Celestial Digital Services Customizable Robotic Companions In 10 years, I foresee the rise of customizable robotic companions that serve as both personal assistants and emotional support units. Imagine a world where a single device adapts to your unique personality, habits, and preferences, becoming an integral part of your household or workspace. As someone who has propelled advanced robotics products like Robosen’s Elite Optimus Prime and Buzz Lightyear into the market, I’ve witnessed firsthand the potential of combining cutting-edge technology with beloved icons to engage consumers. We successfully used 3D modeling and interactive design in our launches, capturing consumer imaginations and generating substantial media buzz. With AI advancements and increasing consumer reliance on seamless, integrated tech like the Buzz Lightyear interactive robot, the potential for emotionally intelligent, multi-functional robotics is undeniable. Transcending beyond personalized assistants, they could serve as adaptable caretakers, offering companionship, healthcare insights, and security features, revolutionizing personal and professional spaces alike. - Tony Crisp, CEO & Co-Founder, CRISPx Digital Legacy Platform One innovative product that we foresee existing in 10 years, which does not exist today, is a digital legacy platform that seamlessly integrates AI holography with immersive augmented reality. This platform would capture and preserve the essence of individuals — beyond static images or recordings — by creating lifelike, interactive holograms that enable real-time conversations with those who have passed. We believe this is possible because, as technology evolves, our desire for connection, memory preservation, and guidance from our loved ones only grows stronger. By blending AI-driven holograms with AR, we can create a living archive of personal wisdom and experiences that transcends time. Not only does this empower future generations to learn from the past in a deeply personal way, but it also redefines how we honor our legacy and preserve human experience for the digital age. - Michelle Gomes, CoFounder & CEO, Evaheld AI-Driven Behavioral Analysis Tool One innovative product I foresee in the next decade is a comprehensive AI-driven behavioral analysis tool for personal mental health optimization. This tool would integrate seamlessly with existing personal tech like smartphones and smart home devices to monitor emotional triggers and suggest personalized coping mechanisms in real-time. Having witnessed the powerful impact of storytelling and design in creating connections, this technology could leverage those insights to offer custom therapeutic narratives. With the increasing integration of AI, we’ve seen how data-driven insights can transform strategies. Applying a similar approach, this tool could revolutionize mental health by offering continuous, personalized support. Through my ventures, especially in media and design, I’ve seen how important narratives and human-centric design can be. This tool would offer those in the mental health space the narratives they need to better understand themselves, ultimately enhancing emotional well-being and resilience. - Milan Kordestani, CEO, Ankord Media Portable Sanitation Unit In 10 years, I envision the development of a portable sanitation unit with integrated waste-to-resource technology. From recent prototypes like Caltech’s solar-powered toilet, these units could transform waste into usable products like fertilizer and hydrogen energy. Imagine a festival or construction site where every portable restroom not only handles human waste but also generates renewable energy, contributing to sustainability initiatives. Additionally, leveraging AI and IoT in sanitation solutions will offer user-centric insights. Picture a self-monitoring portable restroom that alerts service providers when it’s reaching capacity or needs maintenance. This real-time data not only ensures hygiene but optimizes operational efficiency, reducing environmental impact and costs. My role positions me to see how infrastructure changes can drastically improve both user experience and environmental outcomes. The advancements will reshape portable sanitation, making it not only more efficient but an active participant in ecological sustainability. - Michelle Amelse, Vice President of Marketing and Customer Success, Satellite Industries Web3 and AR/VR Community Platform In ten years, I envision a groundbreaking platform that combines Web3 with advanced augmented and virtual reality capabilities to revolutionize community engagement for creators and brands. I’ve seen how integrating blockchain, NFTs, and AR/VR can reshape how fans interact, moving beyond traditional social media. This platform would allow creators to build immersive virtual worlds for their audiences, offering exclusive events and digital collectibles that can be experienced globally. Our use of these technologies has shown significant promise in changing the fan experience into a gamified, rewarding journey. Just as we’ve introduced branded credit and debit cards with unique financial rewards, this future platform would leverage AI to offer personalized fan experiences, simulating real-world interactions in the digital space. It’s about creating proximity and emotional connection, turning fans into co-creators through interactive storytelling and real-time engagement. This kind of innovation addresses current limitations in fan monetization, providing a decentralized, secure space where creators control their relationships and revenue streams. It’s the next step in digital engagement, one that aligns perfectly with the values of freedom and community that have driven my career. From the success of virtual concerts to proprietary algorithms for super-fans, I’ve seen the potential of this vision unfolding, and I’m excited for what the future holds. - Samir ElKamouny AV, Co-Founder & CEO, Avanti3 Self-Cooking Smart Oven As an expert on kitchen appliances, I dream of a “Self-Cooking Smart Oven” — an oven that can scan ingredients (using sensors or RFID tags), suggest recipes based on what’s inside, and cook the meal perfectly with zero input. Furthermore, it would be able to accommodate dietary restrictions and plate the food with the help of robotic arms. Imagine this: you load in your groceries — let’s say chicken, broccoli, and a bag of rice — and built-in sensors detect every item. The oven cross-checks your ingredients with a database of more than 10,000 recipes, then suggests a meal, such as “Lemon Garlic Chicken with Rice and Steamed Broccoli.” It calculates exact cooking times and temperatures — 375°F for the chicken, a quick steam for the veggies — does it all hands-free, including plating and cleaning by itself with sleek robotic arms. AI calculation can also cut food waste by 20% (based on current U.S. stats) by using exactly what you have, tailored to your preferences, like low-carb or gluten-free. Why will it succeed? Life’s busy, and by 2035, time-saving tools will be gold. Think Sunday meal prep, done in 30 minutes with no stress. It’s not just cooking; it’s a personal chef designed for the everyday kitchen, solving real hassles that every family has. - Sofia Wang, Sr. Marketing Specialist, Luxury Appliances Division, EMPAVA Personalized Cannabinoid Therapy In ten years, I expect to see personalized cannabinoid therapy platforms built on genetic profiling. These services will analyze your DNA and metabolic data to recommend exact cannabinoid ratios, terpenes, and delivery formats tailored to your biology. Instead of trial-and-error dosing or strain guesswork, you’ll receive precision treatment plans that evolve with your body’s response. Think pharmacogenomics applied to cannabis care. The goal will be accuracy, consistency, and reduced side effects. Patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, or neurodegenerative conditions waste time on ineffective products. They need dosing and formulation based on their biomarkers, not generic advice. With rapid growth in consumer genetic testing, AI diagnostics, and clinical cannabis research, this shift is already forming. The next phase will link the data to actionable care plans. That’s where the real value will be — bridging science with convenience in the hands of patients. I’ve seen thousands of people find relief after years of frustration, but it shouldn’t take that long. Technology exists to shorten that path. The barrier has been fragmented research and lack of infrastructure. Ten years from now, patients will expect personalized cannabis care the same way they expect tailored nutrition or fitness programs today. That future will remove friction, reduce costs, and deliver better results for the people who rely on this medicine daily. - Aspen Noonan, CEO, Elevate Holistics AI-Powered Learning Companion I believe we’ll see the rise of an AI-powered companion designed to support both learning and emotional growth for children. This product would adapt to a child’s cognitive and emotional needs, offering personalized guidance and activities to help them learn, regulate emotions, and develop social skills. For example, if a child feels frustrated, the companion could offer calming techniques or positive encouragement. This aligns with what we know about child development: emotional and cognitive growth are intertwined. Parents today often struggle to balance academic support with emotional guidance. This AI companion could help by providing real-time support, combining learning with emotional intelligence, similar to how educational toys encourage hands-on skills and positive habits. For parents, this product would simplify the challenges of modern parenting. It offers a one-stop solution for learning, emotional support, and even oral health habits, helping parents raise well-rounded children with less stress. As the product grows with the child, it provides ongoing support, making parenting a little easier and more confident. - Mona Hovaizi, Founder & CEO, Gaux Dynamic AI-Optimized Solar Energy The solar sector will move away from passive energy harvesting to dynamic, AI-optimized energy. In 10 years, homeowners will no longer have fixed solar panel output. Rather, smart grids embedded within will modulate energy production and consumption in real-time, optimizing efficiency depending on weather, grid load, and home use. These systems will buffer excess energy when prices are low and supply it when prices peak, rendering energy independence more feasible. Battery technology will also advance beyond lithium-ion. New materials, including solid-state and sodium-based alternatives, will provide safer, longer-lasting storage at lower costs. This will eliminate the biggest barrier to full solar adoption — reliable energy storage. Homeowners will see seamless automation, where AI manages energy flows without user input, ensuring uninterrupted power while reducing reliance on traditional utilities. The shift won’t be optional. Energy costs will keep rising, and outdated grids will struggle to meet demand. Smart energy systems will be the only way to maintain affordable, consistent power. Those who adopt early will have a financial and operational advantage, securing energy resilience before it becomes a necessity. - Phill Stevens, Founder & CEO, Avail Solar Sustainable Smart Homes I believe that in the coming decade, we’ll see sustainable smart homes become commonplace, effortlessly blending green technologies into daily life. Picture houses entirely fueled by renewable power, with solar panels not only on rooftops but also built into walls and glass surfaces. These homes could actively track energy usage, pinpointing opportunities to minimize waste and lessen their ecological footprint. High-efficiency systems might sync with intelligent appliances, tweaking heating or cooling based on weather conditions or activity levels. I view this as a vital move toward addressing climate change, especially as more people become aware of their environmental impact. Personally, I’d be thrilled to live in a home like this, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. It’s not just something out of science fiction — it’s a necessity for a greener world and a more intelligent way of living. - Valentin Radu, CEO & Founder, Blogger, Speaker, Podcaster, Omniconvert AI-Based Customized Coaching Platforms In the coming ten years, I envision a significant shift towards customized coaching platforms based on artificial intelligence that can transform the way we learn and develop personally and professionally. These platforms will utilize state-of-the-art artificial intelligence to provide highly personalized coaching sessions that align with one’s individual goals, emotional needs, and behavioral patterns. Based on feedback generated through a person’s daily tasks and activities, the platform will also offer responsive, real-time feedback that adapts to the user’s changing needs. Currently, we have numerous apps providing productivity or mental wellness assistance, but the real value lies in systems that offer adaptive, dynamic coaching. A platform like this would function as a personal coach, constantly refining its approach to provide direct advice for improving decision-making, stress management, and leadership skills. It would not only suggest actions to take but also monitor progress and adapt based on that feedback. This development would have far-reaching implications for individuals and organizations. Workers could receive real-time, personalized support, driving growth and enhancing performance at every level. By integrating such platforms, businesses would likely see a more productive and engaged workforce. As we continue to innovate new ways to improve performance, AI-based coaching could become the next significant phenomenon in personal development, offering a scalable, efficient solution for sustained success. - Tony Nutley, Founder & CEO, UK College of Personal Development Automated E-Waste Recycling System Consumer technology will look different in a decade, but one product that will reshape daily life is a fully automated e-waste recycling system built into smart homes and public spaces. People upgrade devices constantly, yet responsible disposal remains inconvenient. A seamless solution would remove barriers and drive higher participation. A future recycling system could integrate AI-driven sorting, robotic collection, and instant valuation. Smart bins at home or work would scan and sort electronics, identifying salvageable components and hazardous materials. Public kiosks would offer automated trade-in options, providing instant compensation or donation opportunities. By streamlining the process, more devices would be repurposed instead of discarded. Adoption will hinge on incentives and ease of use. When recycling becomes as effortless as buying a new device, participation will rise. Companies that embrace automation and consumer convenience will set the standard for sustainability in the next decade. - Alec Loeb, VP of Growth Marketing, EcoATM Biometric Payment Systems I believe biometric payment systems will exist everywhere in the next ten years. Imagine a world where you buy things by simply looking at a scanner or pressing your finger on a pad — no wallet needed, no phone required. Your body becomes your credit card. The unique patterns in your eyes, face, or hands will work as your personal payment ID. These systems offer amazing safety benefits. Credit cards get stolen and passwords get hacked, but nobody can copy your specific biological markers. This gives us protection we’ve never had before when spending money. It will expand beyond basic retail purchases to handle subscriptions, recurring bills, and small daily expenses. The technology will integrate seamlessly with existing financial networks while adding new capabilities. Perhaps most importantly, buying things will become much simpler. When you see something you want, you’ll be able to get it right away without the extra steps we have today. Business dealings will feel more direct and personal. This new way to pay will deeply change how we deal with banks, stores, and money in general, making everyday life easier for everyone involved. - Matt Bowman, Founder, Thrive Local Smart Subflooring Systems In ten years, smart subflooring systems will replace traditional moisture barriers and underlayments. These systems will monitor temperature, humidity, and subfloor movement in real-time. They will connect directly to mobile apps or home automation platforms. Homeowners and installers will track environmental conditions under the flooring and receive alerts before damage occurs. This will eliminate guesswork in installations and extend product life. Most claims and callbacks stem from installation problems, not material defects. Moisture buildup, poor acclimation, or subfloor movement are the usual causes. A smart subfloor will detect those issues early. The system will include thin sensors embedded in the underlayment, with no impact on feel or sound. For high-traffic homes or second properties, alerts will prevent long-term damage and protect warranty coverage. It will also help professionals prove proper conditions at install time. Retailers and brands will collect anonymized data to improve product development. Patterns from millions of installations will guide improvements in construction, installation recommendations, and even regional product offerings. Customers expect more from their homes and demand fewer surprises. This innovation will bring transparency and confidence to a part of the process most buyers ignore until something goes wrong. We will see flooring shift from a static material to an integrated part of smart homes. This change will drive better outcomes for homeowners, installers, and retailers. - Patrick Dinehart, CMO, ReallyCheapFloors.com Phygital Sports Integration We continually monitor advancements that shape the professional sports landscape. One innovation poised to emerge within the next decade is the integration of phygital sports, which seamlessly blend physical athleticism with digital technology to create immersive, hybrid experiences. The Metaverse Gaming League (MGL) exemplifies this trend, combining traditional sports elements with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies. Athletes in the MGL compete in both physical and virtual arenas, utilizing advanced wearables and immersive environments to enhance performance and engagement. This fusion not only redefines athletic competition but also offers fans interactive experiences that transcend conventional viewing. The rise of phygital sports is driven by several factors: 1. Technological Advancements: Innovations in VR, AR, and wearable technology enable the creation of immersive environments that augment physical activities. 2. Enhanced Fan Engagement: Phygital experiences offer fans novel ways to interact with sports, fostering deeper connections and expanding audience reach. 3. New Revenue Streams: The convergence of physical and digital platforms opens opportunities for monetization through virtual merchandise, in-game purchases, and exclusive content. As this trend evolves, businesses like ours can anticipate increased demand for memorabilia that bridges the physical and digital realms, such as authenticated digital collectibles and augmented reality-enhanced products. Embracing these innovations will be key to staying relevant and meeting the expectations of the next generation of sports enthusiasts. Windy Pierre, eCommerce Growth Marketer, True Sports Fan  Credit: Style My Soul, www.stylemysoul.com | Critical Decisions Around Firing Employees A group of industry professionals demystify the critical decisions around employee termination. It strips away the complexity to present actionable advice that is both just and effective. Readers are equipped with expert strategies to make informed choices when performance issues cannot be resolved.
Fire Slowly, But Act Decisively Managers should not rush to fire an employee, but they also shouldn’t delay termination when there is a clear and justified reason. From an employment law perspective, terminations should be well-documented and legally defensible. If an employee is underperforming, managers should first provide clear expectations, coaching, and a reasonable opportunity to improve. Rushed firings often lead to wrongful termination claims. However, if there is misconduct, harassment, or a serious policy violation, delaying termination can expose the company to liability. The key is to follow a consistent process: document performance issues, provide warnings when appropriate, and ensure the decision aligns with company policy and employment laws before taking action. - Ed Hones, Attorney At Law, Hones Law Employment Lawyers PLLC Address Performance Issues Promptly and Fairly I believe in addressing performance issues promptly and fairly. If an employee isn’t meeting expectations, I begin with clear feedback and a structured improvement plan. If there isn’t meaningful progress after 30 to 60 days, it’s time to make a decision. Delaying the decision to fire someone can negatively impact the team, reduce morale, and hinder business performance. Conversely, dismissing someone hastily without adequate coaching can result in needless turnover. The key is consistent communication — no one should ever be caught off guard by a termination. I once had an employee who struggled to follow through on key tasks. After two check-ins and a clear roadmap for improvement, nothing changed. Letting them go was difficult, but it opened the door for someone who thrived in the role. When someone isn’t the right fit, everyone benefits if the move is made sooner rather than later. - Chris Putrimas, CEO, Teak Warehouse Consider Multiple Factors Before Firing I believe the decision to let an employee go depends on several factors, such as their performance, the nature of their role, and the support they’ve been given to improve. Typically, I’d recommend waiting at least 30 to 90 days after identifying an issue, assuming it’s not a severe breach like misconduct or policy violation. This timeline allows us to provide clear feedback, set measurable goals, and offer resources like training or coaching to help them succeed. It’s about balancing fairness with the needs of the team and organization — giving someone a reasonable chance to adapt while ensuring productivity and morale aren’t compromised. The reason behind this approach is rooted in both practicality and respect. From my experience, rushing to terminate someone without documented efforts to address the problem can lead to legal risks, low team morale, and even a hit to our reputation as a fair employer. On the other hand, waiting too long — beyond, say, six months — might signal indecision and allow poor performance to drag on, affecting overall efficiency. By setting a structured timeline, we optimize employee development, maintain accountability, and keep the workplace running smoothly. It’s a process I’ve seen work well when handled with care and consistency. - Matthew Van Rooyen, HR Manager, Mail Tester Balance Fairness and Effectiveness Determining when to terminate an employee’s employment hinges on a balance of fairness and effectiveness. From my 20+ years in employment law, I’ve seen cases where managers lacked clear documentation leading to successful wrongful termination claims against employers. Thus, make termination decisions only after ensuring comprehensive documentation of performance issues and adherence to internal protocols. It’s crucial to assess the seriousness of the employee’s behavior against the potential impact on the organization. For instance, I handled a case involving an employee who repeatedly breached client confidentiality. After sufficient warnings and documented evidence, the employer was justified in a timely termination, which reinforced data protection standards vital for business integrity. Effective training and clear expectations can minimize the need for termination. In one case, an employer prevented a termination by aligning employee training with documented performance expectations, leading to improved outcomes. Taking preemptive steps ensures terminations are not just reactive measures but strategic decisions to uphold organizational standards without incurring legal repercussions. - Nick Norris, Partner, Watson Norris, PLLC Assess Performance or Compatibility Issues I believe the situation hinges on whether the problem stems from performance or compatibility. Some employees excel at their tasks but may struggle within a particular work environment. I once employed an individual who was a diligent worker but needed frequent guidance. This management style didn’t align with my approach, but I knew others who successfully managed teams in that manner. After carefully considering the situation, I assisted him in finding a position at a different firm where his work style would be a better fit, maintaining a positive relationship with both him and the recruiter involved. Conversely, when an employee consistently struggles despite receiving support, delaying a decision can be detrimental, wasting valuable time and resources. In a previous instance, I hesitated to address an employee’s performance issues, despite their potential, because they did not take ownership of their responsibilities. Despite training, mentoring, and adjustments, their performance did not improve. This delay caused unnecessary stress within the team. Ultimately, the decision to part ways should have been made earlier. The crucial aspect is discerning when adjustments can resolve the issue and when a decisive change is in everyone’s best interest. - Lucas Botzen, Talent Acquisition Specialist & CEO, Rivermate Act When Coaching and Support Fail Firing an employee isn’t about time — it’s about timing. I’ve learned that prolonging the process when someone is clearly not a fit does more harm than good. When you realize coaching, feedback, and support aren’t making a difference, it’s time to act. Why? Because every day you wait, team morale suffers, and high performers notice when underperformance is tolerated. That said, I never rush the decision. I ensure the employee knows where they stand, has had a fair chance to improve, and understands the consequences. I handle the situation with respect and transparency when it’s time to part ways. Firing promptly yet reasonably isn’t cold — it shows you value accountability and your team’s well-being. In the end, it’s not about how long you wait; it’s about doing right by both the individual and the business. - Kevin Bryan, Director of Customer Experience, The Alloy Market Follow a Structured Approach Before Termination Determining the right time to terminate an employee is one of the toughest decisions managers face. We’ve seen that effective managers don’t rush to fire, but they don’t unnecessarily delay either. We believe managers should follow a structured approach before termination. First, clearly document performance issues and ensure the employee understands expectations. Next, provide targeted coaching and a reasonable improvement timeline — typically 30–90 days depending on the role’s complexity and the issue’s severity. Finally, assess whether meaningful progress has occurred. Waiting too long to terminate an underperforming employee can damage team morale, as colleagues often recognize performance issues before management acts. It also prevents the struggling employee from finding a better-suited position elsewhere. However, moving too quickly risks losing potentially valuable team members who simply need proper guidance or support. We’ve seen numerous cases where employees who initially struggled became top performers when given appropriate feedback and development opportunities. The right timing ultimately depends on several factors: the severity of performance issues, the employee’s improvement trajectory, and the impact on team dynamics. In cases of ethical violations or severe misconduct, immediate action is warranted. For performance issues, a structured improvement plan with clear milestones and regular check-ins provides the fairest approach. We advise our clients that termination decisions should never come as a surprise to the employee. When performance expectations are clearly communicated and regularly discussed, both parties gain clarity about whether the role is truly the right fit. - Julia Yurchak, Senior Recruitment Consultant, Keller Executive Search Provide Feedback and Support Before Firing Managers should wait until they’ve provided adequate feedback and support before considering firing an employee. This process could take weeks or months, depending on the situation. It’s essential to first address performance issues with clear communication, providing guidance, and setting expectations. If improvements aren’t made after a reasonable time and support, then termination may be the best option to protect the business. In my experience as a business owner, I’ve found that giving employees a fair opportunity to improve through regular check-ins is crucial. Sometimes the issues stem from misunderstandings or lack of resources, and those can be corrected. However, if the problems persist despite support, waiting too long to make a decision can affect team morale and overall productivity. It’s important to balance fairness with the health of the business. - Taryn Pumphrey, President, Ledger Lift Fire When Problem Isn’t Fixable A manager should fire an employee the moment they realize two things: (1) the problem isn’t fixable, and (2) keeping them is costing the team more than replacing them. The biggest mistake managers make? Waiting too long — not because they’re unsure, but because they’re avoiding the discomfort of firing someone. They think, maybe they’ll improve. Maybe with one more conversation, they’ll get it. But deep down, they already know the answer. The hesitation isn’t about the employee — it’s about the manager not wanting to be the “bad guy.” Here’s a rule of thumb: If you’ve given clear feedback, set expectations, and provided a reasonable opportunity for improvement — but you still have that gut feeling they aren’t the right fit? It’s already time. Dragging it out doesn’t help anyone; it just creates resentment, tanks team morale, and wastes time that could be spent finding the right hire. Firing shouldn’t be reactive, but it shouldn’t be indefinitely delayed either. If the role is wrong for them, it’s wrong for you too. The faster you act, the faster everyone moves forward. - Derek Pankaew, CEO & Founder, Listening.com Set a 30- to 60-Day Window We’ve learned that waiting too long to let someone go can hurt the entire team. When someone underperforms or causes friction, we usually set a 30- to 60-day window once it becomes clear. Here’s what that looks like: we have a direct one-on-one, lay out the concerns, and agree on specific goals. We don’t expect overnight change, just honest effort and progress. Weekly check-ins help us track that. If there’s no shift, we move on. It’s not about punishment; it’s about not holding up the rest of the team. What we’ve stopped doing is waiting for someone to magically improve. That rarely works. It’s more fair to be upfront, set expectations, and act if those aren’t met. It’s tough, but waiting too long only makes it harder. Clarity, structure, and follow-through are what make it easier for everyone. - Vikrant Bhalodia, Head of Marketing & People Ops, WeblineIndia Handle Termination with Caution You hired that employee in the first place because you found them the most suitable for the role. Now, how long a manager should wait depends on the reason for firing. A manager must handle termination with caution, as it can lead to significant legal risks, such as wrongful termination claims. If you are firing an employee due to declining performance, you must maintain proper documentation, follow company policies, provide clear warnings, and offer reasonable opportunities for improvement to avoid potential lawsuits. Implementing a performance improvement plan (PIP) can demonstrate fairness and due process. In such cases, a period of 30 to 90 days is typically appropriate. If the reason for termination is severe misconduct (such as theft, harassment, violence, or fraud), an internal investigation should be conducted immediately. If the wrongdoing is confirmed, U.S. at-will employment laws allow you to fire the employee at any time. However, ensure that the termination does not violate anti-discrimination or retaliation laws, as firing for an illegal reason could result in legal consequences. - Martin Zandi, President, CCI Training Center Understand and Address the Root Cause Deciding when to terminate an employee’s contract is a sensitive and complex process that requires careful consideration and a fair approach. The first step is to understand why the employee is underperforming. Is it due to a lack of skills, unclear expectations, personal issues, or misalignment with their role? Having an open and honest conversation with the employee is crucial. This discussion should focus on identifying the root cause of the problem and exploring ways to help them improve. Often, performance issues can be resolved with better guidance, training, or support. If the employee shows willingness to improve, give them a reasonable timeframe, such as one month, to demonstrate progress. During this period, provide clear goals, regular feedback, and the resources they need to succeed. If their performance doesn’t improve after this initial period, it may be time to escalate the situation by placing them on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP). A PIP typically lasts two months and outlines specific, measurable objectives the employee must meet to retain their job. It also serves as formal documentation of the issues and the steps taken to address them. If the employee fails to meet the PIP’s requirements despite consistent support and feedback, it may be time to part ways. Termination should always be a last resort, but it’s necessary if the employee’s performance is negatively impacting the team or the business. The key is to ensure the process is fair, transparent, and respectful, giving the employee every opportunity to succeed while protecting the organization’s interests. - Abhishek Shah, Founder, Testlify Evaluate Performance and Provide Feedback How long should I wait? There is no particular rule or time frame. All situations are different, as are the individuals they apply to. Some managers have more empathy for the people they supervise, and for them, it’s hard to make the decision to fire someone even after a couple of employee failures. Others could be more strict and direct, oriented on results, and put company goals above any relationships they could develop during the time certain employees work in the department. In my opinion, there should be a fair evaluation of employee performance first. Then, if the employee has underperformed, find the reason (personal reason, simply lack of knowledge or interests, or even bad attitude). Next, give feedback and a warning, set clear objectives on how to resolve the issue, point out what could be done differently or how to improve the situation, give a new deadline, and review after some time whether there was an improvement from the employee’s side. If there is improvement, keep the employee. If the problem is with attitude, and there is no visible appreciation from the employee for constructive feedback, then it’s time to say goodbye.- Oksana Gedrovica, CMO, Swag42  Credit: Style My Soul, www.stylemysoul.com | Self Care in All Forms Harnessing the wisdom of seasoned professionals, they share practical strategies for integrating self-care into life’s routine. It dissects simple, actionable steps to ensure self-care is not just an afterthought but a planned segment of one’s daily agenda.
Incorporate Grounding Techniques Into Daily Schedule I’ve seen the transformative effects of intentional self-care. One tip I often share is to incorporate grounding techniques into your daily schedule. For example, take five minutes out of your lunch break to engage in a mindfulness exercise like deep breathing or a brief walk outdoors. This practice not only nurtures your mental health but can break up the workday and reinvigorate your focus. I’ve worked in various therapeutic settings and have observed that clients benefit from pairing self-care with social interactions. Scheduling a regular check-in with a friend or family member can serve as both an emotional outlet and a social connection, helping to maintain mental well-being and reinforcing personal relationships. This also provides an opportunity to offer and receive support, which is essential in tackling life’s challenges. From my experience with couples and family therapy, prioritizing relational self-care can be incredibly effective. I often advise clients to set aside dedicated time for meaningful conversations with loved ones. This prioritization of quality time can strengthen emotional bonds and ensure self-care is integrated into your life, fostering both personal resilience and relational health. - Anne Marie White, Licensed Professional Counselor, Dream Big Counseling and Wellness Pair Self-Care With Existing Routine As a trauma therapist and continuing education provider for mental health professionals, I often encourage both men and women to rethink how they view self-care — not as an indulgence, but as a vital part of maintaining emotional and physical well-being. One practical tip I recommend is to pair self-care with an existing routine — something as simple as using the first five minutes of your lunch break to step outside for fresh air, or taking a mindful pause while you wait for your morning coffee to brew. When self-care is “stacked” onto a habit you already do daily, it feels less like one more thing on your to-do list and more like a natural part of your day. Another important piece is giving ourselves permission to start small. So many people believe self-care has to be a big commitment — an hour at the gym or a weekend away — but meaningful self-care often looks like brief, intentional moments: a few deep breaths before a meeting, a short walk around the block, or even placing a hand on your chest to check in with yourself. These small acts signal to our nervous system that we are paying attention to our needs. Ultimately, self-care doesn’t have to be grand or time-consuming to be effective; it just needs to be intentional, compassionate, and consistent. - Erena DiGonis, Psychotherapist and Continuing Education Provider, EngagedMinds Continuing Education Set Micro-Goals for Self-Care In my practice, I’ve found that setting micro-goals for self-care is incredibly effective for both men and women. One approach I suggest is incorporating a “mini break” at the start or end of your workday. This could be as simple as a 10-minute outdoor stroll or a quick yoga session. I worked with a couple where both partners set an alarm for their breaks. This tiny commitment led to a noticeable reduction in stress and improved their overall relationship dynamics. It’s about making self-care a part of your daily routine rather than an occasional indulgence. This strategy is especially beneficial for anxious overachievers and entrepreneurs. It’s realistic and doesn’t require large time investments, making it easy to stick to consistently. When integrated daily, these micro-breaks contribute to long-term emotional and physical health. - Audrey Schoen, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Audrey Schoen, LMFT Schedule Activities You Look Forward To Self-care often gets overlooked because we tend to frame it as a task or obligation rather than something genuinely enjoyable. One simple trick is to schedule activities you truly look forward to; experiences that you know will feel rewarding and personally meaningful. Think about what makes you feel truly relaxed or energized, whether that’s yoga, running, having coffee with a friend, or simply spending time outdoors. The idea isn’t to pick what others might label as “self-care,” but rather to choose something you’ll naturally feel excited about. When you proactively schedule enjoyable activities into your calendar, you’re less likely to skip or postpone them; you’ll feel naturally compelled to follow through. Anticipation itself is powerful; looking forward to that carefully chosen activity will provide the motivation and energy you need to manage stress and reduce the risk of burnout. - Bayu Prihandito, Psychology Consultant, Life Coach, Founder, Life Architekture Set Boundaries Around Work Hours One tip I often recommend for scheduling self-care is to intentionally set boundaries around work hours to reclaim personal time. I’ve observed that achievement-oriented individuals, especially in busy environments like NYC, tend to blur work-life boundaries. For instance, setting a hard stop at 5 p.m. or designating certain evenings as “work-free” can drastically improve downtime quality. In my practice, I’ve seen clients benefit from practical strategies like using apps such as Headspace or Calm for mindfulness breaks. Incorporating brief meditation sessions during small breaks can help in re-centering and preparing for non-work activities. This approach is particularly effective for men and women who feel constantly “on” due to demanding schedules. Moreover, commitment to therapy sessions is another powerful form of self-care. I’ve worked with clients who found weekend therapy sessions beneficial, allowing them to express and process emotions without weekday pressures. This not only aids in personal growth but ensures they’re prioritizing self-care consistently. - Logan Jones, Psy.D, Psychologist & Director, Clarity Therapy NYC Schedule Self-Care Like An Appointment Self-care is usually sacrificed for work, family, and responsibilities. The outcome is burnout, crankiness, and deteriorating mental well-being. There is one easy solution that guarantees self-care occurs — schedule it like an appointment. Schedule self-care on the calendar as a hard event, just like a doctor’s appointment or work meeting. It could be 30 minutes of movement, an hour of therapy, or some time in quiet solitude; that space is reserved for self-care. This eliminates the pressure to “squeeze in” self-care when all other things have been accomplished. Men and women have varying self-care barriers. Women tend to bear the hidden burden of caring, so their time isn’t theirs. Men might resist making rest a priority because society defines self-care as a weakness. A committed appointment removes these barriers. Carving out a weekly therapy appointment or a daily walk creates a routine. Other people learn to honor these boundaries as strongly as they honor professional commitments. Self-care neglect is not a show of strength. It results in chronic stress and emotional exhaustion. Mental well-being is a duty, not an indulgence. Scheduling self-care makes it a reality rather than an afterthought. - Natalie Buchwald, Founder, Manhattan Mental Health Counseling Integrate Natural Elements Into Routine One effective tip for scheduling self-care is to integrate natural elements and practices into your daily routine. From my expertise in holistic healing, I often recommend creating a simple herbal tea ritual using calming herbs like chamomile or lavender. This practice not only fosters mindfulness but also offers tangible health benefits by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Leveraging the power of community can greatly improve self-care. We’ve seen transformative results when individuals participate in group sessions that emphasize mind-body-spirit connections. Such experiences foster a supportive environment, making self-care a shared, uplifting journey and boosting accountability and commitment to personal well-being. Focusing on holistic self-assessments, I encourage my clients to take a weekly ‘wellness inventory’ that addresses emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. By dedicating specific time each week to reflect on and adapt their self-care strategies, individuals can ensure they are nurturing all aspects of their health, leading to more balanced, sustainable self-care routines. - Dr. Regina Ransom, Director of Clinical Services, New Birth Family Counseling Make Self-Care a Scheduled Priority Make self-care a scheduled priority, not an afterthought. Most individuals fill their calendars with work, commitments, and distractions, with no room for themselves. The solution is to book time in advance as if it were a critical meeting. If you don’t schedule time for yourself when you’re burned out, then you’ve already lost. In our business, we see successful professionals who understand that self-care is part of their routine, not a luxury. They schedule their grooming appointments the same way they schedule business meetings — consistently and without hesitation. A membership-based model helps because it removes the decision-making process; it’s already set. Apply the same approach to any form of self-care, whether it’s a workout, a book, or time away from screens. If you don’t control your time, someone else will. - Ben Davis, CEO, The Gents Place Enhance Productivity With Self-Care Practices One of the greatest challenges of prioritizing self-care is that it is seen as taking time and energy away from other important priorities in life. Although self-care is often seen as a reward or something we prioritize only after all the “essential” to-do’s are complete, the right self-care practices actually enhance the productivity, enjoyment, and success of the responsibilities we hold. So in addition to scheduling self-care as a pre-priority to all else, your chosen self-care practices should incorporate the correct balance of pleasure and presence such that they are both something you look forward to prioritizing and something you can relax into knowing that everything else in your life becomes more effective and efficient as a result. - Courtney Davis, Entrepreneur, The Empowered Woman Treat Self-Care Like Non-Negotiable Appointment As a psychologist, I often emphasize that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. One practical tip for both men and women is to treat self-care like a non-negotiable appointment. Here’s how to make it work:
- Shebna N Osanmoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Savantcare Set Daily Mind-Break Alarm I’ve found that setting a daily “mind-break” alarm on my phone at 2 PM has been a game-changer for my patients struggling with stress management. When it rings, I encourage them to step away from work for just 10 minutes to breathe deeply, stretch, or even take a short walk outside — it’s amazing how this small pause can reset your entire afternoon. - Lori Leonard, Chief Medical Officer, Mindset & Body Reset Stack Self-Care Actions With Daily Tasks When we think of self-care, we often picture elaborate spa days or long meditation sessions — things that feel impossible to fit into the schedule of a busy professional or working parent. But true self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming. The key is habit stacking — pairing small self-care actions with things you’re already doing to make them effortless and sustainable. Try using an ice roller on your face while sipping your morning coffee to wake up your skin and mind. Listen to your favorite podcast while doing your nighttime skincare routine to unwind. Take that phone meeting on a walk outside to get fresh air, movement, and sunlight all at once. These small, intentional moments add up, making self-care a natural part of your day rather than something extra to squeeze in. By shifting our mindset away from all-or-nothing self-care and embracing simple, effective habits, we create space for wellness in even the busiest schedules — because taking care of yourself should feel doable, not daunting. - Alex Lakenen Meyers, Project Manager, Benesch Schedule Annual Health Screenings A very effective way to prepare your self-care schedule, and specifically your overall health, is to SCHEDULE YOUR HEALTH SCREENINGS and appointments every year — scheduling them just like calendar appointments for yourself. For example, I advise selecting a memorable month, such as your birthday or a specific holiday season, to schedule critical appointments like mammograms, cervical screenings or other health exams. With this, you establish a routine, which helps with remembering and prioritizing among our daily hustle. I personally find it tremendously useful to block these appointments off on my calendar two months in advance, plus set myself reminders a week prior, so that nothing else gets in the way of this important self-care time. Plus, learning how to communicate openly with your healthcare providers can improve your self-care experience significantly. Whether you’re worried about unusual symptoms, or just want some peace of mind, it’s good to be able to feel comfortable and confident that you can ask questions — no matter how minor or personal they might feel. I’ve found that comprehensive questioning around menstrual health or preventive screenings like Pap smears or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests can help with proactive management or early diagnosis of a problem. But ultimately, having open conversations with your primary care physician or gynecologist establishes trust, better positioning you to take charge of your overall health. - Sofia Wang, Sr. Marketing Specialist, Luxury Appliances Division, EMPAVA |