Preparing For A New School Year

Yikes, it’s that time of year again. Schools will be in before you know it. With the school year comes extracurricular activities, packed lunches, and the mom taxi in full force.  Are you and your crew ready for the hustle and bustle of the next season of life? In this article, we will share our favorite tips for getting a head start 

Ten Tips For A Strong Start To The School Year

1. Get organized

One of the best ways to get ready for back to school is to get your family organized. Make a list of what everyone needs and start gathering supplies early. This will help you avoid the last-minute rush and ensure that you have everything you need. Get the kids involved too.  They know what they enjoyed and what they didn’t last year.  Let them have a voice.  It will help you avoid arguments down the road.

2. Create a routine

A good back-to-school routine will help your family transition into the new school year seamlessly. Try to establish a few key routines, such as regular bedtimes and mealtimes, before school starts. This will help everyone adjust to the new schedule more easily. Consider after school routines as well. If you want a regular dinner hour during the school year, get a headstart now.

3. Set priorities

You can’t do everything and nobody should expect you to. With a busy school schedule, it’s important to prioritize your time. Decide what activities are most important to your family and make time for them. This may mean saying no to some invitations or cutting back on extracurricular activities. Showing your kids now that it’s okay to say no may save them a lifetime of people-pleasing.

4. Get involved

Getting involved in your child’s education is a great way to help them succeed. Attend parent-teacher conferences, volunteer in the classroom, and help with homework when you can. Showing your support will make a big difference in your child’s education. But decide which areas are best for you.  We recently read “The Best Yes” and it does a great job of explaining how to decide the things to say yes to and the things to decline.  What is your best yes?

5. Keep communication open

Good communication is key to any successful relationship, including the one between you and your child’s teacher. Make sure you know how to reach your child’s teacher and that they know how to reach you. This will ensure that you are always up-to-date on your child’s progress.

6. Encourage independence

As your child starts back to school, encourage them to be independent. This may mean letting them walk to school or taking care of their own backpack and supplies. Helping your child develop independence will prepare them for the future. It is hard as a parent to let go.  Know they will make some mistakes but it is the mistakes that will help them learn the important lessons.  You are actually being a good parent by teaching them an important life skill.

7. Be positive

It’s important to stay positive when back-to-school time rolls around. This can be a difficult time for some children, so it’s crucial that you show your support. Be encouraging and help your child get excited about the new school year. Talk about all the great parts about going to school. Share stories about school when you were a kid.  Have them share favorite moments from last year.

8. Be patient

Back-to-school time can be stressful for everyone involved. Try to remain patient as you and your family adjust to the new schedule. Things will eventually settle down and everyone will find their groove. Because things tend to start all at once you may find that there are a lot of unexpected bumps in the road, but you will survive this.

9. Take breaks

In the midst of all the back-to-school craziness, don’t forget to take breaks. This is a good time to reconnect as a family and relax before the busyness of the school year takes over. Schedule some fun activities or just enjoy some quality time together. What is the one big thing you meant to do this summer and didn’t get around to?  This is the perfect time to just do it.

10. Have fun

Ultimately, back-to-school time should be about having fun. Enjoy watching your child grow and learn and relish in the moments that make this time special. Before you know it, they’ll be off to college and you’ll be wishing for those days back. One of our favorite daily activities is our gratitude moments.  At dinner, we each discuss one thing about our days that we are grateful for.

We know it can feel overwhelming but we believe in you.  It’s going to be an outstanding school year!

Get a head start now by downloading the iStratus app! Start creating lists of to-do before school starts and eliminate some stress.

10 Surprising Things About An Empty Nest

So your last child has left home and you find yourself with an empty nest. Now what? Will it be freeing or terrifying?  Will you love it or will you hate it?

In this article, we will share ten things we wish we had known before becoming an empty nester. Some of them you might expect, others could take you by surprise. 

1. Surprisingly Quiet

You will miss the constant noise and bustle of having kids around.  At first, it will be eerily quiet and you may find yourself longing for the days when your house was filled with the sound of laughter and shouting. But believe it or not, you will get used to it and when they come back to visit you will once again be surprised.  But this time you will be surprised by how loud and messy they are.

2. A Plethora Of Free Time

You will have more free time, but you may not know what to do with it.  It can be both liberating and daunting to suddenly have all this extra time on your hands.  Try to use it wisely by taking up a new hobby or reconnecting with old friends. In the beginning, you may find it easiest to fill up your calendar with activities such as volunteering, dinner with friends, or hikes in your state park.  But eventually, you will find that happy medium. 

3. The Emptiness

Your home will feel empty without your kids.  This is natural and normal.  Just give yourself some time to adjust and soon enough you’ll find that you enjoy having your own space again. After a few decades of messiness, you might even enjoy having a place for everything and everything in its place. Or you might find that you were the messy one all along.  We hear this a lot actually 

4. Feeling Unneeded

You may feel like you’re not needed anymore.  This is another common empty nester feeling.  Just remember that your kids still need you, even if they don’t live under your roof anymore.  They will always appreciate your love and support. But to fill that void in your life right now, consider volunteering.  Finding a volunteer spot that you love can be incredibly fulfilling.

5. Show Me The Money

You will have more disposable income.  With the kids out of the house, you’ll find yourself with a little extra money each month.  Use it wisely by saving for retirement or taking a well-deserved vacation.

6. Cooking Is Harder

You will have to get used to cooking for two (or one).  This can be challenging at first, especially if you’re used to cooking big meals for a family.  But it’s also an opportunity to try new recipes and get creative in the kitchen. The danger is that you will pick up the unhealthy habit of eating out more than you eat at home.  One way to avoid this trap is to invite friends over regularly.

7. More Time With Your Partners

You will have more time for your partner.  Once the kids are gone, you and your partner will be able to reconnect and rediscover each other.  Make the most of this time by planning dates, taking trips, and just enjoying each other’s company. It’s also a time when people start to second guess their marriage. By putting more effort into your marriage, you may be able to avoid this pitfall.

8. Losing Touch With Your Children

You may feel like you’re losing touch with your kids.  This is normal, especially if they move away.  But there are plenty of ways to stay connected, even from a distance.  Try video chatting, texting, or even old-fashioned letter writing. Plan vacations near them or invite them on your vacations. There are plenty of ways to stay in touch but for the first few years, you may find you need to be the one making the effort.

9. New Routines

You will have to get used to a new routine.  This can be tough at first, but it’s also an opportunity to create a schedule that works for you.  Whether you want to sleep in or get up early, use this time to do what makes you happy. Suddenly self-care is possible.  Take advantage of that.

10. Don’t Worry

You will always be a parent, no matter what.  This is one of the most important things to remember.  Even though your kids are grown, they will always need your love and support.  Be there for them, no matter what.

Being an empty nest can feel lonely, but we are here to tell you there is so much more fun heading your way.  We know you are going to find ways to make the most of it.

Get started by downloading the iStratus app today and start making a list of volunteer opportunities, new hobbies to explore, or self-care activities.

Help Your Child Be Ready For Freshman Year

You have a child who is ready to head off to college.  It’s a little scary for mom.  But chances are your son or daughter is excited to get started. The freshman year of college is an exciting time for you and your child. But you are invested in making sure they have a successful year when they get to college. 

In this article, we will share 10 tips to help your child have a successful freshman year. 

10 Tips For Success

1. Talk to your child about their expectations for college

What do they hope to accomplish during their freshman year? What are their goals for their education overall? By having these conversations, you can help your child set realistic expectations for themselves and better prepare for the challenges they may face during their first year of college.

It will also help you understand their goals and help manage your expectations. If their goal for the year is to enjoy the freedom of living in a dorm and experiencing all that the college social scene has to offer, then you will know that they are going to spend some time at parties and tailgates and that it will most likely keep them from getting the best grades.  That’s okay as long as you both understand what the goals are.

2. Help your child choose the right college

Not all colleges are created equal. There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a college, such as size, location, cost, majors offered, and campus culture. You can help your child research different colleges and find the one that is the best fit for them. It is not unusual for a student to change their mind even a few weeks before they leave for college. Make sure you understand what their options are.

3. Encourage your child to get involved on campus

College is more than just academics. It’s also a time to explore new interests and make lifelong friends. Encourage your child to get involved in extracurricular activities and find their niche on campus. It’s usually in these activities that they find their best friends.  But also remind them that it sometimes takes time.  They may not find their favorite activity until their sophomore or even junior year.  Just keep trying.  Most colleges have something for everybody.

4. Help your child budget their time and money

College can be expensive, so it’s important for your child to budget their money wisely. They should also budget their time, as they will need to balance their coursework with their social life and extracurricular activities. You can help your child by teaching them how to create a budget and stick to it.

5. Teach your child how to study effectively

In college, your child will need to study more efficiently than they did in high school. They should create a study schedule and find a quiet place to study where they can focus. You can help your child by teaching them effective studying techniques and providing them with resources, such as flashcards and practice tests. Also, teach them to take advantage of office hours. This is one thing most students don’t take advantage of.

6. Encourage your child to take care of their health

College is a time when students are more likely to develop health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. It’s important for your child to take care of their physical and mental health. You can help them by teaching them healthy habits, such as exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet. You should also encourage them to seek help if they are struggling with their mental health.

7. Help your child stay organized

In college, your child will have a lot of assignments and deadlines to keep track of. They should create a system for organizing their coursework, such as using a planner, calendar, or creating a to-do list. Many students find the iStratus app helpful because they can keep checklists, notes, and even photos all in one place.

8. Encourage your child to network

College is a great time for your child to make connections that could benefit them in their future career. Encourage them to attend networking events and meet new people. You can also help them by teaching them how to network effectively.

9. Help your child find a job or internship

A part-time job or internship can help your child pay for college and gain experience in their field of interest. Help your child search for jobs and internships that are a good fit for them. You can also help them by teaching them how to write a resume and cover letter. Also, teach them the importance of leaning on the resources the school offers.  The Careers Center at most schools has options you might not even know about.

10. Be there for your child

College can be a difficult time for some students. They may feel homesick, stressed, or overwhelmed. It’s important for you to be there for your child during this time. You can support them by staying in touch, offering words of encouragement, and being understanding of their situation.

In a future post, we will share some ideas for learning to leave as an empty nester.  But for now, remember, this should be an exciting time for you and your child.  But it’s okay to be a little sad as well.  It’s bittersweet, watching your baby leave the nest.

Encourage your child to download the iStratus app to help with their college endeavors. 

10 Tips For Planning A Great Family Vacation

Family vacations are fun for everybody except the one who plans them. Between the planning, the packing, and the traveling, it can be exhausting for the one in charge.  But it doesn’t have to be.  With a few simple tips, you can take the worrying stress out of the planning process.

Here are 10 tips for planning your next vacation

1. Start early

The earlier you start planning your vacation, the better. This will give you more time to research different destinations and find the best deals on flights and hotels. We also suggest getting the family’s input early on.  Getting them excited about the choices and finding out what options are most exciting to each member of the family.

2. Set a budget

Family vacations can be expensive so it’s important to set a budget before you start planning. This will help you determine how much you can afford to spend on airfare, lodging, activities, and more. Knowing what you can spend can help you avoid the stress of worrying about money.  Staying within the budget is one of the easiest ways to set boundaries for yourself and your family.

3. Choose a destination

Once you have a budget in mind, it’s time to start choosing a destination for your family vacation. Consider everyone’s interests when making your decision. If you have young children, a beach destination may be ideal. For older kids or teens, a city with lots of activities may be more appealing. But don’t forget that you count too.  And because you are the one who will be working on vacation, be sure you include plenty of fun activities for yourself as well.

4. Book your flights and lodging

Once you’ve chosen a destination, it’s time to book your travel arrangements. Look for deals on airfare and hotels to save money on your family vacation. Booking early will ensure you get what you want and it may save you money as well.  But be sure to look for refundable options.  Easy cancellation matters when you are planning a vacation for several people. 

5. Plan activities

No family vacation is complete without some fun activities planned. Whether you’re visiting a theme park, going on a nature hike, or exploring a new city, be sure to include some family-friendly activities in your itinerary. If you are looking in a bigger city you may find that a City Pass is a good option.  The one in Philadelphia offers 2, 3, or 4-day options with museums and attractions all over the city included.

6. Pack wisely

When packing for your family vacation, be sure to pack essentials like clothes, toiletries, medications, and any other items you may need while away from home. It’s also a good idea to pack snacks and drinks for the trip. Although you may want to check behind the children, consider letting them pack for themselves as well.  Use a checklist to help them.  You don’t have to take on every task.  Accept the help where you can get it.

7. Travel insurance

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before your family vacation. This will protect you in case of any unforeseen circumstances, such as lost luggage, medical emergencies, or cancelations. Consider what just happened with the pandemic and you will realize that we never know what might cause our plans to fall through.

8. Do your research

Be sure to do your research before traveling to your family vacation destination. This includes reading up on the local culture, customs, and laws. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area’s map so you know where you’re going. One of our friends was stuck in Dubai for two days on her way to New Zealand because she didn’t realize she would need a Visa to enter New Zealand.  Knowing these things ahead of time could have saved her time and aggravation.  This is a good time to mention that using a travel agent will not cost you extra and it could save you time and money because their job is to know these things.

9. Stay safe

The most important thing to remember when on vacation is to stay safe. This means being aware of your surroundings, following safety guidelines, and not taking any unnecessary risks.

10. Have fun

Last but not least, make sure to have fun on your family vacation! This is a time to relax, bond with loved ones, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Keep in mind we said have fun.  Yes, you want your family to have fun but you deserve to have fun as well.  Don’t let the whole vacation be about the family.  Make sure you arrange some time for yourself as well.

As always, we have to remind you that the iStratus app can come in handy when planning.  When you put the flights in the calendar, you can insert your tickets and boarding passes right on the appointment so you aren’t hunting around for them each day.  Having a copy of your passports encrypted on your phone might help you in case you were to lose your passports. Also, having each of your activities with reservation numbers right in your calendar can relieve a lot of the stress of your trip.

Download the iStratus app today!

Activities For Summer

June marks the beginning of summer. Schools will be out soon and the kids will be hankering for something to do. Are you already anxious about filling the days? 

Summer is the perfect time to get out and enjoy some quality family time. There are so many great activities to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of our ten favorite summer activities for families.

10 Summer Activities For Families

1. Go camping

Camping is a great way to bond with your kids and enjoy the outdoors. It’s also a great opportunity to teach them about nature and wildlife.

In the past few years, camping has become increasingly more popular.  So, plan ahead.  Reserve your camping spot ahead of time.  Use the iStratus app to plan fun meals by the fire and even keep a list of the campfire songs and stories you want to share with the kids.

2. Visit a local farm

Spending a day at a local farm is a fun way to learn about where food comes from and how it’s grown. Plus, it’s a great excuse to eat lots of delicious fresh produce!

You may find that there are multiple farms to choose from in your community.  That’s great.  Find out what each offers and plan your farm visit based on themes.

3. Have a picnic

Picnics are a classic summer activity for a reason. They’re simple, they’re fun, and they’re a great way to enjoy the warmer weather. Let the kids get involved too.  Give each one a task, making the sandwiches, making the lemonade, or gathering the utensils so they can feel like they are a part of the process.  This will help you avoid the, “Is it time yet?” remarks from the peanut gallery.

4. Go swimming

Swimming is a great way to beat the heat and have some fun at the same time. If you don’t have a pool of your own, many public pools offer family swim times where kids can swim with their parents. If you are lucky enough to live near a lake, ocean, or river, be sure to take advantage of those as well. 

5. Play in the sprinklers

This one is sure to be a hit with the kids! Set up some sprinklers in the yard and let them run through them to cool off. This is a great way to include the neighbors as well.  Is there anything more fun than sitting on the front porch watching all the children run through the sprinkler?  Oh, yes, that’s right.  Running through the sprinkler is way more fun.

6. Make homemade ice cream

Homemade ice cream is a delicious summer treat. It’s also a great activity for kids, as they can help to measure and mix the ingredients. If you really want to involve the kids, consider the Ice Cream Ball

7. Go berry picking

Berry picking is a great way to spend a summer morning or afternoon. Even your littlest ones will love it. The bonus is that after you’ve picked your fill, you can use the berries to make pies and jams, or just eat them plain.

8. Go on a nature hike

Nature hikes are a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. They’re also perfect for little ones who might not be able to handle a long walk. One fun way to spend your time in the woods is by identifying local birds or plants.

9. Have a water balloon fight

Water balloon fights are always a hit with kids of all ages. They’re perfect for hot summer days when everyone is looking for a way to cool off. And filling the balloons alone can take up a good portion of the day.

10. Build a fort

Forts can be built inside or outside, depending on your preference. They’re a great way to encourage imagination and creativity, and kids will love spending time in their own special space.

You know it wouldn’t be an iStratus article if we didn’t remind you to use our app to schedule these activities.  Having them on your calendar ahead of time will give the kids something to look forward to and it will give you the opportunity to plan ahead.

Here’s to a wonder-filled summer for you and your family. Download the iStratus app today!

Make Your Mental Health A Priority

May is Mental Health Awareness month. At iStratus, we specialize in helping you simplify your life through our 6-in-1 app. But did you know that we are big fans of self-care as well? That’s right. One of our favorite ways to use the app is to schedule our exercise, our meals, and even our downtime. Now, we are going to share 10 mental health self-care tips to help you make your mental health a priority.

1. Get enough sleep

Most people need around eight hours of sleep per night.  Consider going to bed and waking up at the same time each day to help regulate your body’s natural sleep rhythm. If you have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep, consider changing the environment.  Add a white noise machine.  Close your shades to make the room darker.  Turn down the temperature or add a fan.  Do whatever it takes to get to sleep.

2. Eat healthy

Eating nutritious foods helps your body to function at its best.  Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. One of the ways we use the iStratus app to help with this is by tracking our food.  Especially the last meal of the day.  We found that certain foods made sleeping more difficult.  Now we avoid those foods before bedtime.

3. Exercise regularly

Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.  A moderate amount of exercise is the key to maintaining mental health and well-being. Keep in mind that even a relaxing 30-minute walk can help.  Don’t think you have to get a gym membership, buy fancy spandex outfits, or invest in a coach. Nope. All you need to do is go for a walk.

4. Take breaks 

When you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a few minutes to yourself to relax and rejuvenate.  Take a hot bath, read your favorite book, or take a walk outdoors. In our last post, we wrote about meditation.  Spending a few minutes of your break to meditate might be just what you need.

5. Connect with loved ones

Spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and promote positive mental health.  Whether you stay in touch via text, social media, or in person, quality time with those you care about is crucial for a healthy mind. And might we suggest you avoid those energy vampires.  You know the ones who suck the energy right out of a room.  You deserve people who lift you up, not tear you down.

6. Do something you enjoy

Make time for activities that make you happy.  This could include hobbies, listening to music, playing sports, or anything else that brings joy into your life. Not sure what you love, start being adventurous, and try new activities until you hit exactly the thing for you.  It might surprise you. Underwater basket weaving, anyone?

7. Volunteer

Helping others has been shown to improve mental health and overall satisfaction with life.  Find a cause that is important to you and consider giving your time to make a difference. We recently met a lovely lady at Charity Connect who pairs people with the charity that makes their souls happy. If an organized volunteer position doesn’t suit you, look around.  Find someone who needs your help.  You might be surprised to find the number of people who are just dying for an extra set of hands to help with handyman work, grocery shopping, or mowing the lawn.

8. Reduce stress

Stress can have a negative impact on mental health.  Identify activities that help you relax and make an effort to incorporate them into your daily routine.  This could include yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. It could also be singing, dancing, or even just saying no to some of the things that are overwhelming you.  Remember, you are worth it. 

9. Seek professional help

If you are struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for help.  Therapy can be an extremely effective way to address mental health concerns and promote wellbeing. If you had a sore throat or a fever, you would go to the doctor. Mental health is health.  It’s okay to seek help.

10. Take care of your physical health

Physical health and mental health are interconnected.  Make sure to schedule regular checkups with your doctor and get adequate exercise and rest.  By taking care of your physical health, you are also taking care of your mental health.

Mental health month is only one-twelfth of the year.  Don’t let it be the only time you make your mental health a priority.  You deserve to be taken care of.

Live life and roll well with iStratus. Take care of your mental health and download the iStratus app today!

Is Meditation The Answer?

At iStratus, we talk a lot about productivity, cybersecurity, and efficiency. Our app is meant to help with all of these. But we also know that people who use our apps are looking for ways to simplify their lives. They are looking for ways to bring a little peace to their hectic schedules. So, today we are taking a different approach. Today, we want to talk about taking just a few minutes every day to add meditation, why you will be glad you did, and how to get started.

Why You Should Meditate

1. Meditation is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety.

Today’s world can be busy. Some of our customers tell us that when they wake up, they feel like a starting gun has gone off and they won’t stop again until they get back in the bed at the end of the day.  This constant sense of busyness can lead to too much stress and anxiety. When you meditate, your body releases feel-good hormones like serotonin that help to calm and relax your mind.

2. Meditation can improve focus and concentration.

How often do you find yourself struggling to find the words to finish a sentence, looking everywhere to find your phone only to realize it’s in your hand, or late for an appointment because you simply forgot. Regular meditation can help with that. Meditation can boost mental clarity, helping you stay focused on the task at hand, and more easily avoid distractions.

3. Meditation has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function.

Research has found that regular meditation can enhance various aspects of brain functioning, such as learning, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. We can all use a little help in this area, right?

4. Meditation can increase empathy and compassion towards others.

Whether you are a mom trying to juggle a thousand tasks, an employer trying to manage a growing business, or a college student trying to cram for exams and still have a social life, chances are you have found yourself overwhelmed by the busyness of life that you have snapped at a friend or loved one out of pure impatience.  By practicing mindfulness during meditation, you not only feel less stress but are better able to understand the perspectives of others and approach challenging situations with kindness and compassion.

5. Meditation can help to regulate emotions and reduce negative thinking.

Through meditation, you can learn to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings and how to better manage them. This can lead to a more positive outlook on life overall.

6. Meditation supports physical health by promoting relaxation.

When you meditate, your body enters a state of deep rest that helps to improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the production of stress hormones.

7. Meditation can boost immunity.

Research has shown that regular meditation can help to improve immune function by increasing the activity of antibodies and white blood cells that fight infection.

8. Meditation can ease pain and discomfort.

By helping to focus attention away from physical pain, meditation can provide relief and promote healing.

9. Meditation can help you sleep better.

By calming the mind and reducing stress and anxiety, meditation can help to improve sleep quality and duration.

10. Meditation is easy to learn and practice, no matter your age or experience level.

Whether you choose guided meditation, a silent practice, or a simple breathing exercise, there are countless benefits to be gained from adding regular meditation into your routine. So what are you waiting for? Start meditating today!

How To Start Meditating

If you are interested in learning how to start meditating, there are a few steps that you can follow to get started.

1. The first step is to find a comfortable place to sit or lie down and relax your body.

This may involve using cushions or blankets for support or simply finding a quiet spot where you won’t be disturbed.

2. Once you have settled into a relaxed position, begin by focusing on your breathing.

You can try taking deep, slow breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth, paying attention to how your body feels with each inhale and exhale.

3. As you continue to focus on your breathing, allow any distracting thoughts or feelings to pass through your mind without getting caught up in them.

Instead, simply observe them and then let them go.

4. If your mind begins to wander, gently bring your focus back to your breath.

Over time, you’ll find that it becomes easier to keep your attention on the present moment.

5. Once you feel ready to finish, gradually open your eyes and take a few moments to orient yourself before getting up from your meditation space.

With regular practice, you will eventually be able to extend the length of time that you can meditate. In the meantime, even taking just a few minutes out of each day to focus on your breath can have benefits for both your mind and body. So why not give it a try? You may be surprised at how much better you feel.

Live life and roll well with iStratus. Download the iStratus app today!

5 Tips for Preventing Identity Theft

Cybercrime is a serious problem that is only getting worse. But there are some things you can do to protect yourself.

Identity theft is a huge problem in today’s world. According to the 2017 Identity Fraud Study, cybercriminals stole $16.8 billion from 15.4 million U.S. consumers in 2016, which was a record high! That’s why it’s so important to protect yourself from identity theft. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 tips for preventing identity theft. Follow these tips and you’ll be much less likely to become a victim of cybercrime!

Tip #01: Keep Your Personal Information Private

One of the best ways to prevent identity theft is to keep your personal information private. That means being careful about what you share on social media, not sharing your passwords with anyone, and shredding any documents that contain your personal information before throwing them away.

iStratus can help.  Our encryption software is the perfect way to secure all of the data you store on your phone.  Read more about why and how you can use iStratus to encrypt photos, bank statements, and more all in one place.

Tip #02: Use Strong Passwords

Another important way to protect yourself from identity theft is to use strong passwords. A strong password should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessed words like “password” or your birthday.

And never reuse passwords! We know this one is hard.  How in the world can you be expected to remember a different password for every account?

iStratus can help with this as well.  By using our password vault to store your passwords, you are less likely to have them fall into the wrong hands.  It also takes the stress out of trying to remember the dozens of passwords we all have to store in our heads.

Still not convinced?  Consider this. If Facebook is hacked and the passwords are exposed, within minutes, a hacker can take that data and try to access your doctor records, bank accounts, and other financial data.  Having a different password for each account helps protect you.  We think it is well worth the extra effort.

Tip #03: Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Another good way to prevent identity theft is to monitor your accounts regularly. Check your credit card and bank statements frequently for unauthorized charges and review your credit report at least once a year to look for any red flags. If you see anything suspicious, report it immediately.

The old saying, “what you don’t know, can’t hurt you,” no longer applies.  Knowing what’s happening with your accounts is a good step towards good cyber hygiene.

Tip #04: Be Careful When Shopping Online

When shopping online, be sure to only shop on secure websites (look for the “HTTPS” in the URL). And never save your credit card information on a not secure website.

Also, beware of phishing scams, which are emails or websites that pose as a legitimate company in order to get your personal information. If you’re ever unsure about a website or email, contact the company directly to verify its authenticity. This happened last year when a fraudulent ad was posted on Facebook.  The ad appeared to be a big saving on a very popular shoe.  It was only when the shoes didn’t show up that customers became aware of the fraud.

Tip #05: Protect Your Devices

Identity thieves can also access your personal information through your devices, so it’s important to protect them as well. Install security software on all of your devices and keep it up-to-date. And be sure to create strong passwords for all of your devices as well!

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from identity theft. Cybercrime is a serious problem, not just for big companies but for individuals as well.   By taking some simple precautions, you can make it much less likely that you’ll become a victim. Stay safe out there!

Phew, that was a lot of information! But it’s all important stuff to keep in mind if you want to protect yourself from identity theft. Just remember: keep your personal information private, use strong passwords, monitor your accounts regularly, be careful when shopping online, and protect your devices. And of course, use the iStratus App to protect your passwords and encrypt your data. Do all of these things and you’ll be much less likely to have your identity stolen. Thanks for reading!

Did you find this blog post helpful? Share it with your friends on social media to help them stay safe from identity theft! And if you have any questions about cybersecurity or identity theft prevention, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help! Download iStratus now!

Encrypt Your Data: Why and How

We save a lot of personal data on our phones – from photos and videos to contact information and banking details. It’s important to keep this data safe and secure, especially in today’s world where cybercrime is on the rise. One way to do this is by encrypting your data.

Encryption? What In The World Is That?

Encryption simply means scrambling your data so that it can’t be read without a special key or password. In this blog post, we will discuss why encryption is important and how you can go about encrypting your data.

Isn’t Encryption Only Used By Governments & Big Businesses?

Contrary to what you might think, encryption is more and more common among businesses, both big and small, and is now available for individuals as well. Why? Because cybercrime is no longer just a government problem.  Small businesses and individuals are more vulnerable because they are easy targets.  For the most part, they don’t believe they are going to be a real target and as a result, they don’t take precautions.

But How Important Is Your Data Anyway?

But who cares about your photos and videos, right?  And your bank information, do you save that on your phone? 

Stop and think about it for a minute. Maybe, you traveled recently and because you know your passport is important and you are a cautious person, you took a photo of it just in case you lost it. Maybe your husband called from the doctor’s office because he forgot his wallet at home.  Instead of reading the numbers to him and having him write them down, you thought you were being cautious by sending him a photo of the credit card and insurance card via text. If these scenarios sound familiar, you are not alone.  These are things people do every single day without giving them a second thought.

The bottom line is that if the data is important enough for you to save, it’s important enough for you to encrypt.

Yes, even your family photos.

How much do you cherish the baby photos you have saved on your phone or the photos from your recent trip to Bali?  Did you know that hackers may steal those photos and then hold them for ransom? Seriously, we have seen it happen.

How Can I Encrypt My Data?

Okay, all of this is good and fine but you need your information at your fingertips.  We all do.  So, how do you keep your data safe and still have everything your need completely accessible?

We have good news.  Our app can help.  By using the iStratus app, you can encrypt your data and keep all of your personal data safe from cyberattacks and even share it with members of your family with an encryption key.  Best of all, it’s inexpensive and easy to use.

How Likely Are You To Be A Cyber Victim?

We know it seems unlikely that you will be targeted by cybercrime.  But, according to DataProtect, “60 million Americans have experienced identity fraud, identity theft statistics show and 16.7 million consumers have had their personal credentials stolen and used without their knowing. This led to $16.8 billion being embezzled from consumers in a single year.”

These days, if you don’t take precautions, it is no longer a matter of if you will become a victim but when.

What Else Can I Do To Avoid Being A Cyber Victim?

There are a few key things you can do to help protect yourself from becoming a victim of cybercrime. First, encrypting your personal data is crucial. This means that even if your device is stolen or hacked, your data will be much more difficult for criminals to access. Next, staying up-to-date with cybersecurity news and trends is important so that you can be aware of the latest threats. Finally, following basic personal cyber safety rules such as not sharing too much personal information online and using strong passwords can go a long way in protecting you from cybercrime.

If you think you may have been a victim of cybercrime, it is important to report it to the authorities so that they can investigate and help prevent future attacks. Cybercrime is a serious issue and by taking steps to protect yourself, you can help make the internet a safer place for everyone.

So, there you have it.  A few reasons why encryption is important and how you can encrypt your data without making it inaccessible.  

Be sure to share this blog post with your friends and family to help them stay informed about encryption and cybersecurity! Thanks for reading!

And don’t forget to download the iStratus app to encrypt your personal data and enjoy peace of mind knowing your data is safe from cybercrime! Stay safe out there, friends!

Applying Knowledge

“Applying Knowledge” – this sounds just a little “blasé” doesn’t it? 

However, knowledge is exactly what we need for effective productivity. Honestly, without knowledge, we’d be lost. Over the last three decades, traditional methods of productivity and collaboration have undergone significant changes. These changes were influenced by cultural, social, and technological advances. The ability to analyze, plan, and organize has emerged as a principal source for developing what’s within our minds and memories.

iStratus aims to support one’s knowledge to escape the monotony of “what once was” and generate simple and effective changes. Life becomes less overwhelming because we can check things off the list and in turn, relax with information. The vast amount of material we have crammed into our brains is promptly forgotten, which is rather astonishing.

Why does this happen, you wonder? It is because relevant connections are lost and so the information we’re delivered just doesn’t stick. In this article, we’ll discuss how knowledge is best cultivated, maintained, and applied within iStratus to effectively increase our feeling of productivity.

Engagement is Key 

So how do we engage in things we’re bored with? This might seem like a rudimentary, over-roasted, or redundant question. Yet, engagement is not something that miraculously materializes within us, nor is it necessarily executed successfully. Nonetheless, holding one’s interest is central to it all. Knowing what engages us in what we do is important to ensure something works and we are being productive in succession. We aim to make iStratus visually appealing so that you enjoy using it. If you have any suggestions as to how we could improve our App, we’d love to hear from you! We want to improve how information is delivered to you! We believe enjoyment is the key to knowledge applied by every individual.

“In completing one discovery we never fail to get an imperfect knowledge of others of which we could have no idea before so that we cannot solve one doubt without creating several new ones.”

~Joseph Priestly

Significant Strategies For Applying Knowledge and Productivity 

We want you to feel empowered by your application of knowledge, skills, and practices to ensure productivity. We all know the importance of goals and outcomes. When we are effectively organized, we all can clearly problem solve. Thus this enables us to think critically, work collaboratively, and communicate effectively with a rational, well-balanced mindset. Armed with knowledge, things are easier to fathom. In turn, this also means taking ownership of the process and one’s willingness to expand the mind. Applying technology apps like ours may seem like an impossible undertaking and something foreign. However, like all things in today’s modern world, it can become concurrent with what you already know.

Once Again We Love Empowering

We feel like we say this like a broken record, but we have to stay actively organized for success and to reach meaningful goals. Regardless of what we must address, applying our experience, knowledge, and understanding helps us objectively set our checklists more towards being productive, efficient, and able to solve potential problems which might arise.

Contextualize: Real Life

Aligned to the point above, there is significant evidence to support the fact that productivity is achieved when something is understood and becomes meaningful. Everything you apply within iStratus is in some way personally relevant. The objective is to ensure that we achieve something.

Making progress is important. Our actions acknowledge that everything is: related, everything we do matters, things must be sustainable, life is life, we must roll, be flexible, and on the same hand, maintain productivity. Every checkmark we make matters.

So let’s stay inspired and find the spark within a subject, notion, or task to ensure we “light up” and feel something in an intrinsically, personal way. Applying what we know to a task is satisfying. Our aspirations also need to be considered to achieve goals and our interests are what does this. 

“If we value the pursuit of knowledge, we must be free to follow wherever that search may lead us. The free mind is not a barking dog, to be tethered on a ten-foot chain.”

~Adlai E. Stevenson Jr

We’re a Wired Community: Technology is an Advantage 

At iStratus, we believe technology should be used purposefully to enhance productivity rather than simply automate processes. We need to work collaboratively and creatively to make notable connections within our lives. iStratus aims to be the major tool organizations, professionals, individuals, and students can use to make these types of connections. Today is the moment for us all to consciously invest in what we do.

Live life and roll well with iStratus.