| How to Make a Terrarium Posted: 17 Jan 2022 04:00 PM PST A terrarium is a miniature indoor garden inside a glass container. Terrariums are low-maintenance and are perfect for people who don't have a green thumb or who don't have time to care for an outdoor garden. They also add a bit of outdoor beauty and peace to desks, night tables, or any place where space is limited. To create your own terrarium, all you need are a few plants with similar light and water needs, a glass container, and some growing and drainage medium. [Edit]Choosing Your Plants and Container - Select plants with similar needs. You can grow just about any low-maintenance plant in a terrarium, but you'll need to choose plants that will grow well together. Get a selection of plants that grow in similar conditions in the wild, such as woodland, desert, or tropical plants.[1]
- For instance, if you choose a woodland theme, you might grow moss, foam flowers, and hepatica. Many of these plants do best in cool, shady conditions.
- Desert plants, such as cacti and other succulents, do best with brighter light and low humidity levels.
- Tropical plants, like Tahitian bridal veil and Venus fly traps, like warm and humid conditions.
- Pick plants that stay small. Plants that grow really wide or tall aren't the best options for terrarium gardens. Instead, stick to small, low-growing plants, or those that can be easily pruned down to a manageable size.
- For example, starfish plants are ideal for terrariums since they only grow to be about tall when they're fully mature.[2]
- Some terrarium plants, like club moss, like to spread horizontally. You may need to trim them back to keep them from taking over the entire terrarium. Others, like the false aralia, need to be pruned to prevent them from getting too tall.
- Opt for an open glass container for low-moisture plants. You can use just about any kind of glass container for a terrarium, from a fish tank to an old-fashioned glass bottle. However, if you're growing plants that like dry conditions, such as succulents, you'll need a container that doesn't retain too much moisture. Choose an open container with relatively low sides for these kinds of plants.[3]
- For example, a fish tank or an old punch bowl could make a great terrarium for some haworthia, hens and chicks, and mini-cacti.
- Avoid growing succulents or cacti in containers with tall or curved walls, since these retain more humidity and don't promote good air flow.
- Get a more enclosed glass container if your plants like humidity. Tropical and woodland plants typically enjoy plenty of moisture, so they do best in more closed-off environments. If you have plants that need humidity, try using a container such as a jar, a vase with a broad bottom, or a Wardian case (which looks like a tiny greenhouse).[4]
- Some plants that do well in more enclosed containers include ferns, begonias, mosses, and ivies.
- You can even create a fully closed-off environment by growing your plants under a glass cloche or inside a bottle.
[Edit]Planting the Terrarium - Clean the glass container with soap and water. If the container was previously used, wash it thoroughly with hot, soapy water and rinse it well to remove all soapy residue. Wait for the container to dry completely before you begin adding your growing media and plants.[5]
- Even if the container was never used before, it's still a good idea to wash it before planting in it. Let it air out for a few days so any water from the washing, as well as manufacturing residue, can evaporate.
- Add rocks to the bottom of the container for drainage. Pour some horticultural gravel or aquarium pebbles into the bottom of the container.[6] While the amount you need to put in will vary depending on the size of your terrarium, a layer about deep is usually sufficient.[7]
- You can buy gravel or pebbles at gardening centers or pet supply stores. You could also use crushed pottery, rock chips, or even glass marbles for your drainage layer.
- This drainage layer is necessary to prevent the soil from becoming soggy in your terrarium, which can lead to problems with mold, bacteria, and root rot.
- Pour in a layer of activated charcoal. Activated charcoal acts as a filter in your terrarium, removing toxic chemicals from the water and soil. Put a layer about deep on top of your drainage material.[8]
- The charcoal is most effective if it sits on top of the drainage layer. However, if you're working with a very small container, you can also mix the charcoal into the drainage material.
- You can purchase activated charcoal from a pet or garden supply store.
- Put a layer of sphagnum moss on top of the charcoal. Take some dried sphagnum or sheet moss and soak it in water for a few seconds. Squeeze out the moss so it's slightly damp, but not dripping wet. Place the moss on top of the layer of charcoal to prevent soil from filtering down into the drainage layer.[9]
- Keep the layer of moss thin. You only need enough to completely cover the charcoal layer.
- You can purchase sheet moss or sphagnum moss at a pet store or home and garden supply center.
- Dump in your growing medium. Cover the layer of moss with some potting soil that's appropriate for the plants you'll be growing (e.g., succulent mix if you're building a desert terrarium, or a general potting soil for tropical plants). It's helpful to dampen the soil slightly first to reduce dust. Make it moist, but not muddy.[10]
- The amount of soil you'll need will vary depending on the size of your terrarium, but you'll probably need to add a layer at least deep to accommodate the roots of your plants.
- Ideally, all the material you've added so far should take up about ¼ of the depth of the container.
- If your container has a narrow opening, use a large funnel to pour in the soil.[11]
- Insert your plants into holes in the soil. Use your finger or a tool (such as a chopstick) to make shallow holes in the soil. Remove a plant from its container and tease the roots gently apart to remove excess soil. Nestle it carefully into a hole and add more soil around it, patting it down gently. Repeat with the rest of the plants.[12]
- Before adding any plants, trim off any dead foliage. It's also a good idea to treat them with a gentle pesticide, such as neem oil or dilute dish soap, to get rid of any hidden bugs or other pests.[13]
- Make sure to leave between the plants if possible so that there's plenty of room for air flow between them. Trim the leaves so that they don't touch the edges of the terrarium or the other plants, if necessary.
- Place some decorations in the terrarium if you like. If you wish, you can add some small figurines, marbles, or other decorations to give your terrarium a fun or elegant look. You can also add moss or pebbles between the plants to make it look a little neater.[14]
- Get imaginative with the decorations if you want. For example, you could add some pretty crystals to create a fairy garden look, or add some sand and seashells for a beach theme.
- Mist the plants to water them. If you already moistened the growing medium, you won't need to add a lot of water. Use a plant mister to spritz down the foliage and the top layer of soil.[15]
- If you plan to cover your terrarium, wait one day and mist the plants again. Then, once the foliage is completely dry, add the cover.
- Keep the terrarium in a place where it will get enough light and warmth. Terrariums are ultra low-maintenance, but in order to remain so they must be placed in an ideal location. Research the needs of your plants and put the terrarium in a spot where they'll get the kind of light and temperature conditions they require.[16]
- For example, if you're growing succulents in a shallow dish, put your terrarium in a sunny window so they can get plenty of light throughout the day. Ferns will probably do better in an area where they get filtered light (such as near a window with gauzy curtains over it).
- Avoid keeping your terrarium in a spot where it will be exposed to temperature extremes or temperature fluctuations, such as near a heater, air conditioner, or drafty doorway.
- Put the terrarium in a stable location where it won't get knocked over easily.
[Edit]Maintaining Your Garden - Water your plants whenever the soil gets dry. If your terrarium is open, you'll need to give it frequent, light waterings. Use your finger to test the soil every few days. If it feels dry beneath the surface, mist your plants or add enough water to the soil to make it moist, but not wet.[17]
- Take care not to over-water your plants. Standing water in a terrarium can quickly lead to rot.
- If your terrarium is completely closed, it may only need watering every 4-6 months.
- Remove any unhealthy foliage. If you see weeds, mold, or sick plants, remove the affected foliage or soil immediately. Also, remove wilting parts of the plant, such as old flowers or dead leaves.[18]
- You can also prevent larger plants from outgrowing their space by regularly pruning them or pinching back the tips.[19]
- Air out enclosed terrariums after watering them. If your terrarium is airtight, air it out any time you water the plants. Wait until the foliage is completely dry before you put the cover back on.[20]
- It's also a good idea to air out your terrarium if you notice a lot of condensation on the walls or mold starting to grow in the soil.
- Succulents typically do not do well in closed terrariums. High humidity levels will cause them to rot.
- Some large plant stores have sections devoted to small terrarium plants.
- Many plants will start from cuttings or leaves. If you know someone who grows these plants, ask to take a small start.
[Edit]Warnings - Do not over-water your plants. Only water them if the soil and the sides of the glass are dry.
- This article describes a decorative terrarium for plants. If you want to build a terrarium to keep a reptile, amphibian, or other small animal, be sure to read about the needs of that animal.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Glass container
- Pebbles or gravel
- Activated charcoal
- Sphagnum or sheet moss
- Potting soil
- Plants
- Decorations (optional)
- Plant mister
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Be a Leader Posted: 17 Jan 2022 08:00 AM PST To be a leader, you don't have to be an elected official or a CEO. Whether in day-to-day life, at school, or in the workplace, a leader is someone who provides example, guidance, and direction. A fancy title doesn't make someone a true leader; rather, qualities and actions do. If you want to be the best leader you can, put effort into developing your skills, balance authority with compassion, and demonstrate that you're worthy of your team's trust. [Edit]Developing Leadership Qualities - Be confident, even when you don't have all the answers. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, keep your head up when talking, speak loud and clear, and use the right gestures when you speak to emphasize key points. Project confidence, and have faith in your ability to get your team from point A to point B. Additionally, be secure enough to admit when you don't know something without letting it phase you.[1]
- Imagine saying, "I don't know," while looking down and fidgeting. Now imagine saying, "I don't know the answer, but I'll look into it and get back to you," as you stand up straight and look the person in the eye.
- Not knowing something doesn't make you a bad leader. Ineffective leaders, on the other hand, get insecure and refuse to admit when they're wrong.
- Keep in mind there's a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Acknowledge that you don't know everything, and avoid acting like you're superior to everyone.
- Learn as much as you can about your field. Take every opportunity to refine your knowledge, whether you're managing a sales team or the president of a school club. Knowing what you're talking about will build your confidence and earn your team's trust. While it's impossible to know everything, your team will doubt your abilities if you say "I don't know" to every question they ask.[2]
- Even worse, if you don't have an answer, make something up, and turn out to be wrong, your team won't trust you.
- For example, if you're planning a fundraiser at school for a charity, check the organization's website for guides on coordinating events.
- If you're the head of an engineering team, learn everything you can about the products you create, attend professional development events, and stay updated on relevant new technologies and software.
- Find a more experienced mentor. There's always room to grow, even if you're in a top leadership position. Reach out to a person you admire who has strong leadership skills. You could ask them to chat over coffee or lunch, or see if they're open to being a long-term mentor.[3]
- Look for role models who've overcome challenges and reached goals similar to your own. For instance, if you're a young woman in high school or college, attend public speaking events by women in leadership positions.
- It might be intimidating to ask someone to be a mentor, but try to relax. Just get in touch with someone who's achieved the goals you've set for yourself, show interest in their achievements, and ask for advice.[4]
- In addition to seizing opportunities to learn from those with more experience, you should mentor those you lead.[5]
- Learn how to manage conflicts. If there's a heated disagreement between team members, tell those involved to get their emotions in check. Have them take some time to cool down, if necessary. Identify the source of the conflict, and take steps to address it.[6]
- Try to see each person's perspective, and remain objective. If there's a way to find a win-win scenario, do your best to negotiate a compromise.
- Suppose you run a factory, and a blueprint typo led to a canceled order. The salesperson is angry that they lost a commission and yells at the designer who made the typo. Instruct them to cool down, stress that getting angry is unacceptable, and assure both that a new double-check system will prevent future issues.
- Keep in mind in a professional setting, you might need to let HR handle an escalating conflict between employees.
[Edit]Providing Effective Leadership - Be firm, but be kind. As a leader, you need to enforce clear rules and boundaries. However, your team will turn against you if you don't balance authority with compassion.[7]
- When you enforce a rule, explain to your team why that rule is important. Instead of barking, "Don't waste paper," tell your team, "Please try not to print something unless it's absolutely necessary. Our supplies costs are way up, and it's hurting the bottom line."
- Be decisive instead of second-guessing yourself. Stand by your decisions, but don't be a tyrant. Gather information, listen to a range of opinions, and make time for debate. Then, when the time for discussion is over, make a firm decision.[8]
- Suppose you and your friends are debating on what to do that night. Everyone is dilly-dallying and nixing each other's ideas. Then someone steps up and says, "Guys, we're doing 'this.'" That person rose to the top, saw the situation needed direction, and took charge.
- Keep in mind there will be times when you'll have to make decisions yourself and times when you'll need input. Ask yourself, "Will a snap decision compromise morale? Does a decision have to be made right now, or do I have time to discuss this with everyone else?"
- Be flexible and, if necessary, shift gears when new information becomes available.
- Delegate tasks and explain roles clearly. A leader doesn't micromanage their team or try to do everything themselves. When you assign tasks, define your expectations clearly and provide any necessary training. It'll be easier to trust team members to perform a task if you set them up for success.[9]
- A clear expectation would be, "Complete specification profiles for at least 5 installation projects by the end of the week." A vague expectation would be, "Do some specification profiles."
- When you need to train someone, demonstrate the task yourself, and narrate the steps as you perform them. If possible, observe them when they start and, if they make an error, gently correct them.
[Edit]Earning Your Team's Trust - Treat your team with respect. Show them sincere compassion, as they'll be able to tell if you're genuinely concerned for them. Hear them out when they express their opinions, praise them for their hard work, and never use inappropriate language. Remember, you set the tone, so model the type of behavior you'd like your team to display.[10]
- Bear in mind showing them respect doesn't mean you should cave in to their whims. You're in charge, and you know what's best for the team.
- If someone disagrees with you, listen to their argument, and use their input to refine your decision. If you can't use their suggestion, let them know that you respect their opinion, but are going in another direction.
- Keep your promises. Break your promises and you'll lose respect. You may be charismatic and knowledgeable, but you're bound to have a mutiny on your hands if you break your word.[11]
- In order to keep promises, you have to know what's doable and what's not. Be realistic when you make a promise, and make sure it's something you can deliver.
- For example, don't promise your staff big raises unless you're 100% certain you have room in the budget. If you're an officer of a club at school, don't promise that you'll get more funding when you haven't even talked your principal or school administration.
- Ask for feedback from those you lead. As a leader, people may be intimidated by you, and they might not rush to lend you constructive criticism. Instead of waiting for someone to speak up, ask your team specific questions about how you can improve your performance.[12]
- Don't ask yes or no questions about whether or not they like you. Instead, ask specific questions, such as, "In your opinion, what can I do to be a better leader," or "What are some ways I could communicate more clearly?"
- Hold yourself accountable. Stand by your decisions, and take responsibility for the consequences. If things go wrong, the buck stops with you, so don't blame others to cover your mistakes.[13]
- Think of yourself as the captain of a ship; the fate of the ship is in your hands, and it's up to you to steer everyone in the right direction.
- When things don't work out as planned, a good leader perseveres. Instead of sticking your head in the sand, treat setbacks as learning opportunities.
- Dress in a way that's consistent with your role. Your appearance can inspire confidence, but know the difference between dressing to impress and dressing to influence. Dressing to impress, or being overdressed, could drive a wedge between you and those you lead.[14]
- For instance, if you manage a casual restaurant, wearing a suit and tie is impractical, might turn off your customers, and could alienate your staff.
- If you're president of your high school class, wearing a crisp button-up or neat dress to a meeting is better than wearing ripped jeans and a stained, wrinkly tee-shirt.
[Edit]How Do I Maintain Trust While Promoting Efficacy And Efficiency With My Team? [Edit]Additional Help - Help your team to achieve both individual and collective goals. Remember, setting individuals up for success is part of getting the group from A to B.
- Always practice what you preach. There's no better way to lose your credibility as a leader than to be a hypocrite. If you set a rule, be sure to follow it. Lead by example and others will follow in your steps.
- Don't be a manager, but a leader.
- Charisma is helpful, but it's more important to be trustworthy than charming. Sincere kindness will get you farther than phony charm.
[Edit]Warnings - As a leader, you're in the limelight, which means your moves are under a microscope. Your morals and values are just as important as your knowledge and skills.
- Be mindful when forming close relationships with members of your group. Don't pick favorites or give people preferential treatment.
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Write a Persuasive Speech Posted: 17 Jan 2022 12:00 AM PST A persuasive speech is a speech intended to convince the audience to do something. Whether you want to get people to vote, stop littering, or change their minds about an important issue, persuasive speeches are an effective way to sway an audience. There are many elements that go into a successful persuasive speech. But, with some preparation and practice, you can deliver a powerful speech. [Edit]Preparing to Write - Learn about your topic. It is important to know as much as you can about the topic you'll be speaking on. If you aren't already well-versed in the subject (e.g. because it has been assigned to you), do some research and learn as much as you can.
- Especially if your topic is a controversial one, it's a good idea to know the arguments on all sides of the issue.[1] Whatever argument you are making, you'll be more persuasive if you can address the views of the opposing side.
- Spend some time reading books or articles about your topic. You can go to the library and ask a librarian for help finding books, or just go online and find some articles. Make sure to use reliable sources, like major news organizations, or academic books or articles.
- Opinion-oriented sources, like editorials, talk radio, or partisan cable news, can be valuable for finding out what other people think about your topic. But, don't rely on them as your only source of information. They can be very biased.[2] If you use them at all, make sure to read a variety of viewpoints on the matter, not just one side.
- Know your goal. It's important to understand exactly what it is you are trying to achieve with your speech. This way, you can tailor your content to fit your goals.[3]
- For example, if your topic is recycling, it's important to know a lot about recycling. But, your speech will need to reflect exactly what you hope the audience will do. Are you trying to get people to vote in favor of a citywide recycling program? Or are you trying to convince them to sort out their glass and cans and put them in a separate bin? These will be different speeches, so having the goal spelled out early will help you craft your message.
- Understand your audience. It is also important to understand your audience and their views and knowledge about the topic. This will also influence the content of your speech.[4]
- An audience that knows little about your topic will need more background information and simpler language. An audience made up of experts on the topic would likely find such a simple speech boring.[5]
- Likewise, an audience that already supports your view on a topic will be easier to persuade to take some action. You won't need to convince them you are right, but only that they need to do something. By contrast, an audience that does not agree with you will need persuasion to even consider your point of view.[6]
- For example, imagine you want to convince your audience to support a city-wide recycling program. If they already think recycling is important, you only need to convince them of the value of this specific program. But, if they don't care about recycling or oppose it, you will need to first convince them that recycling is worthwhile.
- Choose the right persuasive approach. Depending on your topic and your audience, there are several ways you might try to convince people of your point of view. Since the days of ancient Greece, speakers have relied on three main persuasive approaches.
- Ethos. These are appeals to the audience's ethics or morals.[7] For example: "Recycling is the right thing to do. Wasting our limited resources steals from future generations, which is immoral."
- Pathos. These are appeals to the audience's emotions.[8] For example: "Think of the animals that lose their homes every day because of trees being chopped down. If we recycled more, we could save these beautiful forests."
- Logos. These are appeals to the audiences logic or intellect.[9] For example: "We know that there is a limited supply of natural resources. We can make this supply last longer by recycling."
- You can rely on any one or some combination.
- Outline your main points. Once you've chosen the best persuasive approach for your audience, brainstorm the main points you'll make during the speech.
- The number of points you can make to support your position will be determined by how much time you have to speak.[10]
- As a rule of thumb, three to four supporting points is usually a good number.[11]
- For example, in the speech about recycling, your three main points might be: 1. Recycling saves resources, 2. Recycling reduces the amount of garbage, and 3. Recycling is cost-effective.
[Edit]Writing your Speech - Write a strong opening. Before you can begin persuading your audience, you need to open the speech in a way that will make them want to pay attention. A strong opening has five main elements:[12]
 - An attention grabber. This could be a statement (or sometimes a visual) that gets your audience's attention. It can be a good idea to be a little startling or dramatic at the opening of your speech. For example, you might start with information (or pictures) showing how a nearby landfill is nearly full to capacity.
- A link to the audience. This is a means of showing that you have something in common with the audience. Show that you have a similar background or share an emotional connection of some kind. This will really depend on knowing your audience. For example, if you are a parent, speaking to other parents, you might emphasize the concern for your own children's future. If you share a common interest or ideological position with your audience, you can emphasize that.
- Your credentials. This is a means of showing that you are knowledgeable or an authority on the topic of the speech. Highlight the research you've done on your topic. If you have any personal or professional experience with the topic, be sure to emphasize that, too. In the recycling example, you might say "I've invested many hours studying the recycling issue and the types of programs available in other cities."
- Your goal. Explain to the audience what you hope the speech will accomplish. For example: "I hope by the end of my talk that you will agree that we need a city wide recycling program."
- A road map. Finally, tell the audience what the main points of the speech will be. For example, "I believe we must start a recycling program for these three reasons...."
- Offer persuasive evidence. The main body of your speech should contain the points you outlined in Part 1. It should provide the audience with several convincing reasons to support your viewpoint.
 - Arrange these points logically. Don't jump from one point to the next, and then back again. Instead, complete an argument, then move on to another that flows logically from it.[13]
- Use credible sources from your research to back the points you are making. Even if your point is more emotional (pathos), introducing some factual information will make your argument stronger. For example "Each year, 40,000 acres of beautiful forests are destroyed to make paper, according to a study from the American Recycling Institute."
- Use real life examples that the audience can relate to. Even an argument based on facts and logic (logos) should relate to the audience's lives and interests. For example: "In these hard economic times, I know many of you are afraid that a recycling program will mean a costly increase in taxes. But, the city of Springfield started a program like this one three years ago. So far they've seen an increase in revenue as a result of the program. Many residents have seen a decrease in their taxes as a result."
- Address the counter-argument. Although it is not strictly necessary, your argument may be stronger if one or more of your supporting points addresses the views of the opposing side. This gives you a chance to address your audience's possible objections and make your argument stronger.[14]
- Make sure that you describe opposing views fairly and objectively. Consider whether someone who actually holds that view would approve of the way you are describing their position. If you aren't sure, find someone who thinks that way and ask![15]
- For example, you would not want to say: "opponents of recycling just don't care if we waste our precious resources, or our money." That's not a fair description of their opinion.
- Instead, you might say: "opponents of recycling are concerned that the cost might be much higher than just using new materials," and then go on to offer an argument about why recycling might be the more cost-effective option.
- Conclude with a call to action. The conclusion of your speech should remind your audience of what you have told them. It should also make it clear exactly what you hope they will do next.
- Don't just restate, verbatim, what you've already said. Instead, use this as an opportunity to reinforce the way your main points support your call to action. For example: "To sum up, I've shown you (points a, b, and c). These three undeniable facts point to a city-wide recycling program as the most sensible and ethical step we can take in helping create a more sustainable future. Please, join me in voting 'yes' on this program in November."
[Edit]Delivering your Speech - Practice your speech. When it comes to making your speech work in real life, the most important thing you can do is practice, as much as you can.
- Try practicing in front of a mirror, so that you can see how you are delivering the speech. This can help you notice your facial expressions and body language. These can help or hinder your ability to get your message across.[16]
- For example, you might notice you are slouching, or that that you fidget with your collar. These actions suggest to an audience that you aren't confident.
- Better still, record yourself with a video camera and watch the tape afterwards. This can help you see (and hear) where your delivery needs improvement.[17] It has the benefit of providing audio, and also won't distract you as much as a mirror when you're speaking.
- Once you've practiced on your own a few times, try giving the speech to a small group of friends or family members. Ask for their feedback on your message and delivery.[18]
- Dress appropriately. On the day of the speech, dress appropriately for the venue and audience you'll be speaking to.[19]
- Generally speaking, this will mean dressing professionally. But, the degree of formality will vary. A speech to a film club to convince them to show your film won't require the same degree of formality as speaking to the executives of a movie distribution company.[20] For the executives, you would want to wear a suit. For the film club, that might be overdoing it.
- Relax. Many people find public speaking intimidating, but try to relax and be yourself as you give your speech.
- Be friendly and make eye contact with the audience.[21]
- Move around, where appropriate, but don't fidget or pick at your clothes or hair.[22]
- Don't read the speech. It's okay to use a few notes to keep yourself on track, but your speech should be mostly memorized.[23]
- Roll with the punches. If you make a mistake, don't let it derail your whole speech. This might be an opportunity to use a little humor. Then, move on.[24]
- Involve your audience. If there is something specific you'd like your audience to do, provide them with any resources you can to make it easier. It is difficult to motivate people to take action, but if you make it simple, they will be more likely to follow through.[25]
- For example, if you want them to contact the mayor, demanding a recycling program, don't just ask them to do it. Give them stamped, addressed envelopes to send a letter, or cards with the mayor's phone number and email address. If you do this, many more people are likely to follow through.
- Speak forward, projecting your voice toward the audience with confidence. Do not speak down toward the floor.
- Try to cite sources for statistics and use credible, non-biased sources.
- While researching your audience, learn what motivates them. Try to motivate them with the same ideas and values that they already hold dear.
- Don't be afraid to use a little appropriate humor in your speech. It can make difficult topics easier to hear about, and make you appear more likeable to the audience.
- Look around at the audience, making eye contact, especially during pauses in your speech. If you're feeling nervous about this, pick out a single person in the audience and pretend you are speaking only to them. After a little while, pick someone else, and repeat.[26]
- Relax by thinking of a comforting memory before starting your speech. This can help to make you feel less nervous when you start.
[Edit]Warnings - Avoid being confrontational, when possible. Don't be sarcastic or mocking when discussing viewpoints other than your own. This can be alienating to your audience, even those who may agree with you.
- Don't be pompous or arrogant during your speech. Be humble, and be open to questions, suggestions, and feedback.
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Dress a Dog for Snow Posted: 16 Jan 2022 04:00 PM PST Many dogs can adjust naturally to winter weather. However, certain types of dogs, like toy and short-haired breeds, are more affected by the cold, and extreme weather conditions can endanger any animal. Jackets, sweaters, booties, and other outdoor gear can go a long way towards keeping your pet healthy and safe. Protect your canine companion during the coldest months by learning when and how to dress them up for winter conditions. [Edit]Knowing When to Dress Up Your Dog for Winter Weather - Dress up toy dogs. Very small dogs, like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians, are less able to regulate their body temperatures. Consequently, it's a good idea to dress them up in a sweater or jacket when they go outside in below-freezing temperatures.[1][2]
- Dress up lean, short-haired dogs. If your dog has a thin coat and/or low body fat, they have less natural protection from the cold. Short-haired breeds, like Boxers, Greyhounds, or Dobermans, should have extra protection, like sweaters or coats, when they're facing below-freezing temperatures to help them retain their body heat.[3]
- This also applies to dogs, such as Poodles, that are highly groomed in a manner that keeps their fur very short.
- Suit up older dogs. If you have a senior dog with a compromised immune system, it's a good idea to give them the extra protection of a sweater or jacket when facing cold weather.[4]
- Let the natural coats of hearty breeds protect them. Some types of dogs are specifically bred to withstand winter conditions. These large, hearty breeds, like Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and Siberian Huskies, come with thick, double coats of fur. They typically don't require additional gear to help them with cold weather.[5]
- Dressing up dogs with dense fur in outerwear can even be detrimental, leading to overheating.
- Pay attention to your dog's signals. Regardless of your dog's size, fur, breed, or condition, be sure to take cues from their behavior to see if you should be dressing them for the cold. If they show signs of being chilled, it's always a good idea to bundle them up before you take them any further.[6][7]
- If you notice that they're shivering for an extended period of time, getting sluggish, coming to a complete stop, and/or trying to keep one or more paws off the ground when they walk, it's likely that your dog is being negatively affected by the cold.
[Edit]Picking the Right Outwear - Decide between a sweater and jacket. If you're simply trying to protect your dog from cold temperatures or taking them out for short outdoor sessions of less than a half hour, a sweater is probably sufficient. If you're taking your dog out into snowy conditions, wind, precipitation, or extreme cold (like below-zero F or below -15 degrees C), then it's better to dress them in a waterproof coat since they offer more substantial protection.[8]
- If it's at all wet or snowy outside, it's best to go for a waterproof jacket. Wet sweaters can make your dog colder instead of keeping them warm.
- Pick garments made from sturdy, convenient material. If your primary objective is trying to protect your dog from the cold rather than making a fashion statement, you should go for outdoor apparel that's constructed from durable and breathable fabrics, like nylon, a wool blend, or fleece. Make sure that the gear is also machine washable for easy cleaning.[9]
- If you're going for a coat, select one that has a waterproof or water-resistant exterior so that it can withstand the elements.
- Get the sizing right. Each product and brand will have different sizing guidelines. Whether you're shopping online or at a pet store, be sure to check the specific sizing charts associated with a particular product before purchasing it.[10]
- Prepare yourself to find the right size for your dog by taking some key measurements. Use a tape measure to take the circumferences of your dog's neck, chest (around their biggest rib), and waist. You should also measure the distances between the base of their neck and their waist, and between the base of their neck and the base of their tail.
- Some garments may have sizing charts that are determined by your dog's weight.
- Make sure their gear fits well. Sweaters and coats should fit snugly but comfortably. If they're too big, they'll drag and compromise the warmth of the garment. If they're too small, they'll constrict your dog's blood flow, irritate their skin, and/or restrict their movement.[11]
- Dog apparel should be easy to take on and off. Once it's on, you should allow your dog to move around in it to see if their range of motion or natural gait is at all affected.
- You should also check that you can fit two fingers (one finger for small dogs) under the neckline or any other openings to be sure that they won't chafe your dog's skin.
- Avoid designs with potentially dangerous accessories. Many dogs are not in love with wearing clothing, and may try to remove it. If your dog is wary of clothing or prone to chewing, avoid getting garments that have decorations or accessories, like pom-poms or ribbons that could easily be clawed or chewed off. You don't want your pooch eating their apparel![12]
- Get lights and/or reflective gear. The dark sets in early during the winter months. Ensure that you and your dog can be seen by wearing lights and/or dressing them up in reflective or bright clothing.[13]
- Consider attaching clip-on lights to your dog's collar or getting a light-up collar so that you don't lose your pet and so that they're obviously visible to other people, pets, and motorists.
- You could also go for a coat that has reflective strips or material as part of the design.
- Reserve additional accessories for extreme conditions. You may want to put your dog in a hat and scarf because it's adorable, but these accessories are not necessary winter gear for canines in most conditions. If you are preparing your dog for prolonged exposure to temperatures that are well below freezing, gale-force winds, or an active snowstorm, then adding a hat to their jacket would be a good idea.[14]
- Keep in mind that the wisest thing to do in extreme winter conditions is to keep yourself and your dog inside.
- If you do need to venture out, the most practical hats for dogs will be bands that tuck under their chins and wrap over their ears.
- Neck warmers designed for humans also make good hats for dogs.
[Edit]Fitting Your Dog with Booties - Get booties for your dog. If you live in a cold climate with lengthy winters or your dog's feet are especially sensitive to salt or cold, it's a good idea to get your pooch cloth or rubber booties to protect their paws.[15]
- Besides keeping your dog's feet warm, booties can also help shield your pet from ice, snow, salt, and grit. Being exposed to these winter hazards can injure your dog's feet or leave their paws painfully dry and/or cracked.
- Pick a material that's sturdy enough to offer protection and withstand harsh conditions while being flexible enough to comfortably adjust to the shape of your pet's feet.
- They should also have waterproof or water-resistant exterior to keep your dog's paws dry.
- Consider getting boots with traction or grips on the bottom to help your pooch navigate through snow and ice.
- Since these are specialty items, pet stores will not always stock them, and ordering them online may be easier.
- Make sure to get the right size. Before you buy a set of booties, check the brands' specific sizing chart to get the right fit. There are no standardized shoe sizes for canines, and booties come in a wide array of designs. Thus, it's critical to refer to the particular sizing and measurement guidelines used by the brand of booties you are ordering.[16]
- Getting the right size will require you to take measurements of your pet using either a scale or a tape measure. Some dog shoe companies use sizing charts that go by weight. Others will ask you to measure the distance between a dog's heel and toenail.
- Check that they have the right fit. Your dog's booties should slip on and off easily and have an adjustable strap to keep them snugly in place around your dog's ankles. They should fit securely around the ankle but leave plenty of room for your dog's paws to breathe since they regulate heat through the pads of their feet.[17]
- Be sure that your dog's booties are tight enough to stay on without being uncomfortable. Check to see that the ankle straps aren't rubbing or chafing your dog's skin or fur.
- Also check that the booties aren't affecting your dog's natural gait. While they may walk differently in their shoes at first, be wary if your dog does not adjust back to their normal stride over time. This can indicate that the shoes are cramping their feet or placing pressure on their claws.
- Help your dog adjust to booties. Wearing shoes does not feel natural to canines, so it may take them a while to get the hang of it. Make the period of adjustment as short and pleasant as possible by rewarding them with a treat after you put on each bootie.[18]
- Giving your pooch treats along with their booties will help them develop positive associations with wearing shoes. Taking them out for a walk immediately after you put them on will also boost their positive associations with booties.
- It's also a good idea to keep your dog under control on a leash initially until they've adapted to walking in booties. If you notice that the booties are slipping off, stop and adjust the Velcro straps until they fit tightly enough to stay on.
- If you're unsure about your dog's ability to withstand the cold, consult with your vet about any necessary precautions you should take before you bringing them out in winter conditions.
[Edit]Warnings - Never leave your dog unattended in a coat because they may get caught on something.
- Even the heartiest dogs face health risks, like frostbite and hypothermia, from prolonged exposure to below-freezing temperatures. Never leave your dog outside in the cold for long periods of time, no matter how they're dressed.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Remove a Quick Weave Posted: 16 Jan 2022 08:00 AM PST A quick weave can be a fun way to change up your look, but they're only meant to stay in for about 4 weeks. To remove your quick weave, coat the base of the hair wefts and the cap with lots of oil so it's easy to slide them off. If you end up with dried glue on your scalp or natural hair, apply a glue remover shampoo. Then, comb your hair before shampooing with your regular shampoo and conditioner. [Edit]Removing the Hair Wefts and Cap - Choose an oil to apply to your quick weave. You can purchase hair oils or shampoos that are designed for loosening and removing quick weaves. Buy these at your local beauty supply store. If you don't want to buy a new product, check your home for oil-based products you can use, such as:[1]
- Conditioner
- Oil, such as almond, olive, coconut, or baby oil
- Dish soap
- Apply the oil to each hair weft. If your oil comes in a bottle, you may be able to spray it onto the base of each hair weft. If you're using something that didn't come in a spray bottle, such as conditioner or oil, squirt or pour a little of it into a bowl. Then dip your fingers into it and spread it directly onto the hair weft where it meets your scalp or the cap.[2]
- You can protect your clothes by wearing a plastic cape or a grocery bag over your body. Keep in mind that oil stains can be hard to remove from clothing.
- Since you're dealing with messy oil, consider wearing an old T-shirt while you remove the quick weave.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 1 hour. Put on a shower cap or nylon cap to keep the oily hair wefts from getting into your face. Leave the cap on for 1 hour to give the oil a chance to loosen the hair weft glue.[3]
- Remove the shower cap and rub the wefts attached to your hair. Take off the shower or nylon cap after the wefts have soaked. Then use your fingers to rub the wefts that you glued directly onto your hair. Rubbing should loosen the wefts so they start to slide down.[4]
- If the weft feels dry or isn't moving very much, spread or spray a little more oil product onto it. After you apply the oil a second time, wait an additional 30 minutes before you try to work it again.
- Pull off the wefts that are attached to your hair. Gently tug the hair weft down and away from your hair. Pull it completely away from your hair and continue to remove the individual hair wefts that aren't attached to the cap.[5]
- If you're having trouble pulling away the hair wefts, saturate them with more oil product and let it sit for another 30 minutes before you try again.
- Spray the edges of the cap with oil and massage it. Once you've removed the individual hair wefts that made up the top of your hair, spray or spread more oil to the edges of the cap. You should also be massaging and rubbing the edges of the cap, so it begins to slide off.[6]
- You'll damage your natural hair if you pull off the cap without loosening it first. In some cases, the damage can be severe and even result in bald patches or alopecia. Take your time and allow the cap to loosen.
- Continue to spray the cap with oil and lift it away. Massage towards the center of the cap and keep applying oil with your hands. More and more of the cap will loosen and come away from your scalp. You should now be able to completely remove the cap with the hair wefts attached to it.[7]
- You can save the cap with the wefts to reapply or discard it.
- Some caps, especially stocking caps, will be ripped or damaged after the removal process. If this happens, remove the wefts from the cap, then throw the cap away. After you shampoo and condition the wefts, you can reuse them with a new cap.
[Edit]Removing the Glue Residue - Apply oil directly to the glue spots to loosen the glue. Use your fingers to work the oil into your hair. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then gently pull your fingers or a comb through your hair to remove the glue. After you get out as much glue as possible, move on to washing your hair.
- You can use the same oil you used to remove the wefts and cap.
- Rub glue-removing shampoo onto the glue. Purchase a glue removing product that's designed to dissolve glue that's attached to your natural hair. You can buy these online or at local beauty supply stores. Squirt some of the shampoo onto your scalp and massage it into your scalp and natural hair.[8]
- The amount of glue removing shampoo you'll need will depend on how much glue is left in your hair.
- If you can't find glue removing shampoo, use a clarifying shampoo. This will remove buildup and all of the oil you used to remove the hair wefts.
- Comb your hair with a plastic comb and rinse out the shampoo. While the glue removing shampoo is in your hair, take a plastic wide-tooth comb and gently pull it through your hair to catch any large pieces of dried glue. Then rinse the product out of your hair with warm water.
- It's important to use a wide-tooth comb instead of a fine-tooth comb since the fine-tooth comb can pull and tear your hair.
- Shampoo your hair with your usual shampoo and rinse it out. Get your hair wet and massage your standard shampoo through your hair. Once you've rubbed it into your hair for a few minutes, rinse the shampoo out with warm water.[9]
- This will remove any traces of oil that were left in your hair from removing the hair wefts.
- Condition your hair to keep it healthy and moisturized. Since the glue remover and shampoo may have dried out your hair, work some of your favorite conditioner through your hair. Comb the conditioner through your hair to remove as much of the remaining glue as possible. Leave the conditioner in your hair for at least a few minutes and then rinse it out.[10]
- If your hair still feels dry, consider using a deep conditioner that you leave on for up to an hour. You can also rub a little coconut or argan oil through your hair to add moisture.
- Never pull off a hair weft that isn't loose or you could break your natural hair.
- Let your hair and scalp rest for a few weeks after removing the quick weave before trying a new quick weave. This will keep your natural hair healthy and less likely to break.
[Edit]Things You'll Need [Edit]Removing the Hair Wefts and Cap - Oil
- Old t-shirt
- Shower or nylon cap
[Edit]Removing the Glue Residue - Glue removing shampoo
- Plastic wide tooth comb
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towel
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
Nenhum comentário:
Postar um comentário