#Organisational Behaviour Assignment Help

[niranutcake]

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I wasn't sure if I should've even posted this... Please don't read it if you don't feel like it. I just... wanted to vent my frustrations at least somewhere rather than keep everything inside

I helped out a friend. Well, at least I considered him one. Half a year ago he asked me to lend a bit of money. I don't have much myself. The only source of my own income is a 36$ stipend. I don't currently have a job and I live with my parents, but their income plus mine is enough to give the four of us stable and happy life. So out of pity and kind heart, of course I helped him, because it felt like he needed it. He promised to return the money. He didn't. I asked what was wrong and for my money back, because I needed them. But he just ignored my messages.

Now, after going MIA for half a year, he returns. Apologising. And asking for more money yet again. I already told him my frustrations about his inappropriate behaviour, for which he apologised yet again and told me how his life was rough, how he got his money stolen when being away on a sports competition and he wasn't able to return home, how he needed to sustain his girlfriend (and now, how it turned out, a wife) and pay rent and his parents and noone helped him. He has a normal job. He knows how much I earn.

I wanted to believe him. But my trust was seriously wavering. I gave him money. The last one for food that I had, because he was assuring me he'd 100% return it tomorrow before evening. I chose to believe him. The next day I starved. Now I don't have money for food for the end of the week. He said his paycheck got delayed, even sent a picture of the paper, said he'd give back tomorrow. I chose to believe him. I was left with nothing again.

There's a lot of emotions inside of me right now. I feel hurt, betrayed, angry, frustrated and more. I told him everything about how I felt and afterwards decided to block him. I'm tired of his empty promises.

But I also feel said, because, like, he wasn't like this before. We met eachother in a small organisation (that I'm not longer in), he was a fun, energetic, open boy, and we quickly connected with eachother. We smiled and laughed at jokes, did assignments together, I joyfully cheered on him on a dance competition. I remember him as a good person. But then he comes with this.

It left me confused and hurt... What could've happened? Why did he act like that?? Why did he say all of this? Was he even telling the truth? I really don't know...

Now I feel bad. I'm still confused. Something like this never has happened to me before. I don't know what to do... I just... *sigh*...

Am I doing something wrong?...

[ovwechoes]

True Self: A Ramattra x Reader Fanfic. Summary: You’re an esteemed overwatch member, and have always struggled with being deadnamed and misgendered. You didn’t think anyone could connect with your feelings about this, but that changed the day you met the leader of Null Sector, and realised that the most unlikely being was in your corner. Word Count: 1.2k Writing trade with @peydawgz - thank you for doing this with me <3

Overwatch was your ultimate dream, and when you were offered a full time position as an Overwatch operative, your heart soared. If you could tell your younger self that they were open to having someone like you there, you wouldn’t believe yourself. There were always rumours that military organisations weren’t as welcoming to people that weren’t what people considered ‘the norm’ - heterosexual and cisgender. You didn’t let that stop you at the time, but you sometimes wished you knew how bad it could get when you started experiencing cruel behaviour from your co-workers. The deadnaming was starting to affect your confidence, your work ethic, and your quality of life. No one who’s not in your position would understand how hard it cuts into you, as though their words were daggers, dragging across your skin every time that cursed name you were given at birth falls from their lips. To this day, you don’t understand how they found out about it, and felt violated knowing that they did. That person they constantly called you was gone, you weren’t them anymore, and you wanted to be accepted for who you were once and for all. It was slowly killing you inside, and you were left feeling as though you had no hope of living a fulfilled, supported life. You did what you could throughout all the disrespect and shame you felt - you followed orders, read mission plans, and trained to the best of your abilities. Sometimes, you have to remind yourself of why you’re working with Overwatch, and remind yourself that things get better and life can’t just be this… You were left praying for the day that things would change to whoever would listen to your silent crying. It was finally answered in the most unlikely way you expected.

It felt like the same day as the rest of the week’s were, the only defining feature being the mission at hand. Overwatch had learned of a crucial operation taking place in Dorado by Null Sector, with its leader being at the forefront of the fight for the first time. Overwatch had less than 24 hours to prepare for the attack, and you played a vital role in their possible victory. This was an especially important mission, and you understood the need to focus on your work. You let the silence fill the empty space left in your mind by the lack of people around you. It was peaceful. Comforting, for once. You always enjoyed working alone; at least you wouldn’t hear that name while trying to focus on your work. You were assigned to this case because of your expertise on the weapons being used by Null Sector, and had the experience needed to tackle them head on. But, it meant that no one else was needed to stick around and give you a hand. You handled small but effective turrets, undetectable to the omnic eye. They were perfect for the mission, and you were the only one able to set them up efficiently, and with the speed needed to prepare Overwatch for the invasion in the morning.

You continued working, trying to keep your mind empty and clear on the task at hand. But the memories that Overwatch was leaving you with were blinding your judgement. How could you do something so kind and so helpful for them if you weren’t treated with a slither of respect from the people who’re meant to watch your back? You always wondered what would happen if you were in harm’s way - would they bother helping you, or would they just watch and mutter that name under their breath? The thought of your isolation in Overwatch was overwhelming you, and tears swelled in your eyes. You tried desperately to hold them in, as though you were a bullied child trapped in an adult’s body. Your head started to hurt, your nose sniffling, and the familiar wetness on your cheeks returned for another night. You tried to compose yourself, but the flashing images of you hurt, alone, and with no one in your corner to support you left you feeling hopeless.

As your hands remained busy, working at a faster speed than normal, with your tears clouding your sight,, that’s when you noticed it. You didn’t know at the time what it was, but they definitely had lights. Red ones. You started to count them; 1, 2, 3… 10 altogether. They didn’t move, and were so small you didn’t notice them before. What were they? Why were they in the dark, hiding almost? You got up and began to walk slowly and with caution towards them. Your heart was beating out of its chest, as though it was pounding on the walls of your ribcage begging to be let out. You wiped your eyes as you dragged your feet closer and closer, trying to stay quiet but safe. What were you supposed to do if these lights were dangerous? You didn’t know, but you felt the need to get closer to them, understand them, and acknowledge their existence. You were face to face with them now, and you crouched down to meet them at eye level. Before you could finish reaching out to them, a voice spoke to you. It was stern, and shook you to your core.

“Don’t try to touch me. Go back to your work, I was enjoying the show you were giving me” the voice sarcastically stated. It was mechanical, as though it didn’t have organic voice chords to produce them from. And yet, it wasn’t loud or too quiet. You couldn’t understand what was happening, until it hit you. You recognised the voice. It was him. Why was he here? What was he doing? That’s all you could think of as you rushed to create distance between the two of you. You were mortified that he, of all people, would have to see you cry. Your mind was foggy, and you crawled backwards, still facing him but desperate to remain at a safe distance. Your fear was written across your face, and it was only growing the longer the silence lingered between you both.

“Relax. I’m not going to hurt you. I’m just observing. You don’t need to run away, you have a mission, don’t you?” Ramattra asked. His voice was softer than before, as though he pitied you. The thought of that made your heart rot. You watched as he crept out of the shadows, in a slow and methodical manner. He was previously sitting down, but now he was on his knees, slowly moving towards you. He towered over you, and the sheer fear of the situation was overwhelming you. With everything else going on, all that you had left in you to do was finally let the tears flow. Everything you had bottled up had unleashed itself, as though the floodgates in your eyes were broken from anxiety and stress itself. Your heart continued to pound, as you whimpered softly through the tears. He quickly stopped moving once he noticed this, and sat back down on his knees again, watching you carefully. His head tilted, as though he was analysing your state. You had no energy to speak right now, all you could do was sob until your head hurt. You were in this situation for an organisation that couldn’t even remember your name properly, and now you were going to die alone, afraid and knowing no one would call you what your real name was at your funeral. The thought of that alone was enough to make things worse.

A cold hand found itself on your arm, holding it gently as though to ground you. It held you in place and brought you back to reality. Ramattra was watching you, and you could see in his eyes that he was preparing something to say. What was he doing? What was happening? Why is he holding you but not trapping you?

“Why are you crying?... I’m sorry, but have I gone too far? I only meant to tease you. I never even meant for you to see me.” Ramattra asked, his face remaining the same as before but his voice had a hint of sincerity in it, as though he was genuinely concerned. You couldn’t trust him, and didn’t know what his intentions were, and he could see that. But his mind was only focused on calming you down, and no other ulterior motives.

“If I wanted to hurt you, I would’ve by now. You humans should know this already, so please stop crying and speak to me. Why are you crying?” His voice was more stern, as though he was running out of ideas on how to comfort this sobbing human in front of him. Ramattra didn’t want to bring more attention to the both of you than is necessary, and his fear of being caught with you there by something or someone was catching up to him. As his words rang in your head, your heart calmed for a second, and you took the chance to catch yourself. Your mind was clearing, and your breathing was returning to normal. You didn’t know how, but this omnic in front of you was actually helping, and you were ready to speak back to him finally.

“I’m not crying because of you, okay? I’m just overwhelmed. I’m tired of Overwatch hurting me, and now I’m stuck here with you, probably about to die, and you’ll never even know my real name. And if I’m being honest, I wouldn’t even care anymore. I’d finally get some peace and quiet, and I’d stop having to be reminded of who I was before, and who I’m not now. I’m just tired, and I’m sorry if I made too much noise or whatever else… I’m just tired.” you sighed; it felt euphoric to finally air it out, even if it’s to the one person you’d never expect to console in. His head dropped, and he understood you clearly. You didn’t know what he’d think, and at that time you didn’t care, you thought you were going to die and now you finally could with someone knowing what was going on mentally. You felt better, but you knew it was bittersweet, with your death coming sooner than later.

“If that’s the case, what is your name?” He replied, sincerity cleared the air and your mind, allowing you to be open and honest. “Y/N. If you hear anything else, please ignore it. I’m trying to but no one seems to. Maybe I’m just asking for too much.” you replied, your eyes swelling again before you felt that cold hand from before move to your cheek, holding your face softly in a comforting way. Ramattra was much closer to you now, and you were left under his gaze, watching him carefully. Your breathing slowed, as though it was too scared to move an inch against him.

“Well Y/N, maybe for humans it’s harder to adjust. Change can be scary for your race, it’s something I’m all too familiar with” Ramattra watched your responses, as he continued to speak. “You don’t deserve the treatment you received, but we both will be able to move forwards in a world that’s more welcoming of everyone. You’re not alone in this feeling, trust me. I tried everything to move past it. And sometimes, humans don’t want to change. Humans can’t accept change. But you can’t let them walk over you, and let them hurt you. You’ll end up a rotting body 6 feet beneath the Earth’s soil. You deserve to be yourself, in a society that welcomes you with open arms. If Overwatch won’t give you that, make it yourself.” He explained carefully and slowly, with each word falling from him and onto you helping you. Your confidence was rising, your mindset adjusting. He was right, and there was no one to stop you from making Overwatch a better place to be. You wanted to be accepted, and finally you understood that if they won’t naturally accept you, you’ll make it impossible for them to ignore your existence as who you are.

You felt a newfound sense of confidence, as though you could take on the world. Your mind was running with ideas as his thumb rubbed away tears that were seeping into your cheeks. His face didn’t change, but you could tell he only wanted to comfort you at this moment. It was sweet, and it was something you would always value from this point onwards. All you could think to do is smile, and you took the chance to leap forwards and hug him as tight as you could. He couldn’t feel it the same way humans could, but he knew what you were trying to do.

You muttered ‘thank you’s over and over and over into his metallic chest, letting yourself engulf into him. Ramattra’s hands found themselves on the small of your back after some hesitance, and he held you there like a kitten. He didn’t utter a word, just tucked his head into your neck, and let you stay there as long as you needed. His hug was warm, despite the cold air swirling inside him. All you wanted to do was stay there forever; you couldn’t imagine a safer place to stay. You realised how odd that thought was when the being in question was a war criminal trying to claim dominance over the human race, but you didn’t care. For the first time since coming out, at least one person showed solidarity, and gave you the self esteem needed to claim your space in society. After this conversation, you were a new person, and there was no stopping you now that you knew what to do. You finally felt hope, and realised that life could be good, life could be better. Sometimes, though, you have to make it better yourself.

As he held you close to him, listening to your breathing like the rhythm of a beat, enjoying the fact that he managed to help at least one human being, time passed by as though it was on double speed. You stayed there for however long, until the flickering of aircraft lights were shining onto you. Your heart raced, you knew what this meant. You weren’t ready to say goodbye; there were so many questions left unanswered. All you wanted was for him to stay there, and to keep holding him as though he was the only thing grounding you to the planet right now. But alas, Overwatch was searching for you and other operatives, it seemed like everyone was missing and it reassured you to know you’d have a story to fall back on if questioned. Your eyes widened as he pried you off him, in an anxious state. His body jolted up, and he prepared to leave and return to the shadows before muttering to you, quietly and gently. You could barely hear him, but when you processed what he said, you felt yourself melt in your spot.

“I hope that in the end, after everything is said and done, you’ll return to me and let me show you everything this world has to offer us. Take care of yourself, and remember what I told you, Y/N.” And just like that, he was gone. You were craving his presence already, missing his embrace, missing his comfort. You knew what you had to do once Overwatch managed to find you and pick you up, and Ramattra had filled you with a new type of hope that hadn’t been encouraged until now. From now on, you won't stay idle and let them hurt you. You were going to fight back, make yourself known, claim your space as who you are and make Overwatch a better place for others just like you. You were eternally grateful for him, and made sure to keep him in your thoughts whenever you felt discouraged from your new personal mission.

Life was good, and Ramattra was responsible for that. He saved your life, and now you owe him the same favour.

[haechanhues]

last minute of golden hour; yours | chapter two

pairing : first love! haechan x fem!reader

genre : small coastal town romance. first love. fluff. pining. suggestive. angst.

warnings : down bad behaviour.

summary : is first love meant to be the way it is for the town's golden boy and everybody's baby angel?

word count : 2.7k

taglist: @nshitae

main masterlist

previous chapter : chapter one

Your nails claw back your hair, time tormenting you with its seemingly slower pace. The rest of the library is dead silent, save for the clicking of countless pens and the turning of pages. The worst part is that neither of your friends seem to be in the same predicament as you. 

In fact, Yunjin is dead focused, her prescription glasses pressed right on top of the bridge of her nose, flicking through her notes effortlessly. Her iced coffee melted with the lack of attention.  Chaewon is the same, fresh new highlighters running along countless paragraphs and new pens writing notes in the margins as she organises her assignment into her portfolio. 

You alone have been reading the same sentence over and over again. Each page more daunting than the last. Every new idea wasted on your brain and its incapability to study right now. 

A collection of voices outside the window sings like a siren’s call, pleading for your attention and you’re more than happy to abide. You peek over to the slightly opened window, ignoring the sunlight as it beams on your face. Fresh air brushing against your face like a gentle friend. 

Your lips pressed together in slight excitement at what you see. Who you see. He’s with a large group of friends, and even though you cannot see the two of them, you know that both Jeno and Jaemin are inevitably there with him. A friend to everyone he may be, those two will always be slightly more present in his life. 

Some delusional part of you thinks that it’s perfect. You have two best friends and he has two best friends. You, with your girls who are both alike in some ways and differing in others, yet perfectly in sync with you. He’s the same. Two friends who are different but scarily similar but also not too different from him. It’s mind boggling in such a fucked way, you’re not so sure you can stop it. Too invested in the imagined lore of you both. 

The sun glares down at the lot of them as they chat with each other and yet, he seems to be the only one truly unaffected. 

From the upper floor and in secret, you can tell why the sun favours him. He captures its beauty and in time it has become him. His skin is a smooth sun kissed olive, with a flutter of star-crossed moles spread across his neck and the planes of his face. You can’t quite see them this far away, but you know exactly where each one is. His face is far too prized in your memories, so much so, that not knowing he has a single freckle on the heart of his throat feels like an insult. 

It doesn’t help that the air smells of the earthy hair oil in your hair and sweet perfume, making you feel all the more affected by him. Floral scents mixed within earthy scents, a hint of vanilla here and there. All scents that in some way lead you back to-

“Tsk,” You startle, your eyes wide and expression guilty as you make eye contact with a stern Yunjin, realising belatedly that Chaewon has left to hand in her assignment and go off to her next class. All without you knowing. 

Bashfully, your head drops to return to your study, feeling her teasing yet assertive eyes on you. 

“Was that our town’s golden boy?” Yunjin inquires, picking at her book as she mumbles the words out. You keep quiet, but truthfully you don’t need to answer. She already knows. If not by her own ability to spot him or identify his voice but in the way your expression turned lovestruck. How your book didn’t turn nor did you pick up your pen within the hour. 

She can also tell instantly that you’ve burnt out and lost motivation to continue. 

“I’ll make a deal with you,” Yunjin gambles, already regretting it by the look in your eye, “You get this done and we go to the game early. I’ll even buy you some chips or something.” 

Your face jumbles excitedly, but you maintain composure, eyes still wide and not quite yielding. Yunjin sighs, “And I’ll wear the outfit.” 

With a quick snatch of your facial features, you school your expression not wanting Yunjin to take back what she said before you return to your school work. You’re a changed woman - completely overtaken by the momentum of information and knowledge, so much so that Yunjin is the one actively keeping track of the time. She’s proud of you, knowing that although you’re a good student and you’re incredibly intelligent, it doesn’t come easily to you as it does to a few of your friends. 

With a sigh that you’re finished, tidying your area quietly only to be slightly bewildered by Yunjin. Her nose scrunched playfully with a manicured hand tucked under her chin, head tilted in a way that conveys pride. Her area is already tidy and her hair neatly tucked away in two dutch braids with her blue outfit poking above her neckline. 

You gasp, eyes flicking to the clock back to a smiling Yunjin who ushers you quickly into the bathroom while she cleans up after you. Somewhat jittery, you change into your little outfit that you and Chaewon put together just last night, smudging a little lip gloss onto your lips and a little glitter onto your eyelids.

When you return, you find that Chaewon has returned from handing in her assignment, already dressed and trying to coax Yunjin into taking off her thick hoodie. Yunjin squeals at the instant draft before rushing to push her hoodie back down. 

“Oh she’s a babe,” Chaewon comments with her own glittery eyes, a little more bedazzled than you are. Staring at you. 

You smile shyly before rushing into Yunjin’s warmth, the taller girl welcoming you with open arms. Chaewon sighs at the losing battle, knowing that while your heart is with her, Yunjin accepting the outfit is a feat in itself. 

Plus, Yunjin still owes you hot chips. 

The girls can’t help their snort when you tiptoe at the counter of the food truck, ogling the food truck operator and chef as he gathers your fries. Topping a generous serving on top of an already generous serving when you give him a kind grin. He recognises you, always getting hot chips and expertly squeezing the tomato sauce on top. 

You love the sauce at the food truck more than anywhere else. Some may argue it’s the same everywhere, but there’s something different in this sauce that has you coming back for more and more. The chips as well. All to die for. 

Like a pacified puppy, you follow after Chaewon who leads you to a trio of empty seats and quickly you sit down before you grow self-conscious of your outfit, hoping to some higher being that there are more girls as dressed up as you. Feeling a little better when within the half hour, girls start to pile into the stadium with their own matching outfits and fun makeup looks. Some even more outlandish than you three. 

It also helps that Chaewon is confident and unashamed, building confidence within you and Yunjin. The latter found the confidence rather early on, opting to ditch the hoodie and even give a twirl to one of her adoring lab partners in one of her science classes. 

But when he comes in, his whole team pouring onto the field. Your care and worries about your outfit fall away completely. Now, he has your attention. He looks even better in his new football uniform and cleats. It looks like home on him, as if it’s always been blue. As if he’s made of ocean and sun. 

‘There she goes,” You hear the teasing, but it’s faint and it’s only sound. Sound that you can ignore and pretend is non-existent. But you could never do the same with him. Never. Not when you see his eyebrows furrow and keep focus. 

You see him scan the stands as if he could possibly spot you (or someone else) before the intensity of the crowd, yelling his name with vigour and pride is deemed too much to challenge. 

He returns to his stretching, boosting morale with cheers and comforting skinship. He’s confident, eyes sharp in contrast to that of the younger players whose own eyes shift and jump between the rival teams players. Coach is confident, his loud laugh reaching your seat at something one of the boys has said. 

Your excitement grows as they ready themselves with a team chant, running out to the home crowd’s own chant of boisterous hollers and cheers. Your own cheers set both Chaewon and Yunjin off with laughter in their throat. He turns around, thanking the crowd for their support with a two fingered salute sending butterflies to smack into the walls of your heart full force. 

You watch on the edge of your seat, so much so that Yunjin and Chaewon are surprised. Their wide eyes on you rather than the game. 

They share a look. 

Since when were you so interested in football? 

But truthfully, Yunjin feels that although the boy is a large portion of it, she thinks that it may be the atmosphere that you find the most intrigue in. The outfits. The cheers. The friends. The fact that they’re winning… 

The chips…

The laugh Yunjin lets out is more of a shriek as the youngest of the trio bursts out of her seat, screaming in celebration and turning around to hi-five the people behind you. The shy bashful girl they know and see everyday, shadowed by the burst of energy that takes her place on the slightly chilly but otherwise warm Thursday evening. 

“He scored a goal!” You cheer into Yunjin’s ear, so hyped up that you continue to wiggle in your seat, fingers poking into your tub for a clean looking chip. They’re a little too salty now, but they’re still good enough to find solace in them. 

Chaewon claps loudly, cheering for the other players who assisted him to score, again, it's an action made to tease you and this time it does succeed to leave you flustered. 

“Don’t worry baby, you cheer for your man and I’ll cheer for the rest of the team,” Chaewon chortles, your cheeks flare with heat before sending an embarrassed smack into the skin of Chaewon’s thigh and hoping to fuck nobody overheard. 

Chaewon lets out a loud yelp before rubbing at the skin, “Ow! That hurt!” 

Whilst you and Chaewon engage in a lighthearted bickering session that will surely end with Chaewon apologising, Yunjin finds more interest in the sky above. Every dark spell the sky casts over the stadium is prevailed over by the skylights that stand firm around the field, alighting the players running around each other. 

The boys hold up, their team morale strengthening as the game progresses, the home team crowd already singing their winnings as the rival team compatibility dwindles. You would feel bad, but the cheer is frankly too much for even guilt to win over and you sing along with the rest of the crowd. 

But nothing sends the crowd as wild as when Jeno scores the final score of the game, Chaewon and Yunjin even joining in, their own praises and their cheers swirled into a pot of communal pride. He’s rushed by his teammates, not a straight face in sight. 

Whilst you’re still on your high, Chaewon grabs your hand and takes you down the steps and you can feel the nerves slowly build. Your fingers run across the fabric of your cute little outfit, with your little tutu and simple top to match. Yunjin grips at your wrist, “You’re fine. You look cute, stop.” 

When you reach him, he’s surrounded by other people and you feel your heartbeat break through your skin. You bite your lip and statically, your brain speedily repeats a pre-organised mantra that you designed last night to help you stay organised. 

It’s fine, he’s just a boy. 

He’s just a boy. 

He’s just a boy. You think he’s cute. No big deal. 

Again and again, it boosts your confidence, only for that confidence to shut down once you see his handsome face. In the evening, his face is golden hour. His lips are spread in a blinding smile and the colour of a need-to-be-kissed pink. His laugh has you soaring even higher into the land of the dumbstruck and you just stand and stare. All you can do, actually.

Lee Donghyuck, or more commonly known as Lee Haechan has been on your mind for as long as you moved here. All it took was a smile, his confident and cheeky demeanour along with the way he offered his hand to hold as you navigated through the busy Summer coastal town you now call home to know that you had signed your heart away. 

He’s nudged by a couple of other guys who come to congratulate him, recognising them as some stragglers from the basketball team he’s also a part of. A drop of sweat falls from the end of his hair and leaves the skin of his body blessed. You really can’t bring yourself to feel anything other than enamoured. 

As Haechan spots you, he brushes back his hair in a faux show of easygoingness, one that Jaemin ruthlessly rips apart, “Woah, look at you acting all cool now that Dreamy's here.” 

Haechan hisses profanity as Jeno decides to add his own unwanted commentary, “He’s been talking to everyone so he doesn’t fuck up his conversation with her.” 

“Are you trying to come up with little prompts? Aww you’re too cute,” Jaemin giggles. Haechan flashes him his middle finger, before being pushed forward. Chaewon and Yunjin similarly leave you alone and pass him with dancing eyebrows and provoking dances meant to tease him. 

“Oh my god,” He hears your embarrassed murmur, filling him with a sweet honey filling. The smile on his face is dumb and he knows it. 

“You came,” He grins down at you. Your cheeks round with a fond look and you almost fluster at the way he towers over you, your neck angled slightly  upwards. 

“I did,” You nod, “You like the outfit?” 

Liked it? He loved it. But to avoid sounding like a sappy fool, he refrained from vocalising the absolute buffoonery that would get him clowned in real life and every group chat he was in ever. 

“Insanely.” 

You shrug him off, not easily accepting his compliments. You do it a lot, not denying his words but not quite accepting them either. Opting to find something in the middle and getting shy because of it. 

One day, he’ll get you to accept his truth. Your truth. 

But he also loves the way you get all bashful. That's the only thing he doesn't quite want to steal away. He loves to see the way his words openly affect you, because he feels it affects him all the more.

His thoughts are eaten when you confidently step forward, brushing a stray hair out of his eyes that's clearly bothering him. He's so taken aback he worries the inhale of oxygen he takes is too apparent and he wishes the blush that tints the skin of his cheeks is hidden by the night. But unbeknownst to him, you’re suffering from your own inner turmoil, your throat clogging so much you can’t speak and you hope you have a minute to recover. Or that he doesn’t start another conversation so soon. 

But you are both saved by your complete incompetence, both turning to your four friends for help. The expressions written on your face mirroring each other so well. 

The four, in which, let out a synchronised sigh followed by a huff of pained laughter. 

“I think we’re going to need therapy,” Jeno mutters with clenched teeth, resembling what could be a smile but ultimately failing. Grunts of agreement following after. 

“Everyone agreed to take benefits from them?” Jaemin mutters, his smile easy and not as forced as the others, thriving off the awkwardness. 

“You mean.. Donghyuck?” Chaewon corrects. 

“Same thing,” Jaemin replies. 

“Absolutely,” It’s Yunjin who mutters those words, watching painfully as you two continue the conversation and reaching every dead end known to man before tripping yourselves, “But no seriously, this is gonna need some serious therapy. They're hopeless."

next chapter : chapter three

[the-wales-5]

"Crazy for this girl" (Chapter 2)

Chapter 1

On the next day, she was walking through the corridor towards the lecture hall when all of a sudden, the other girls were again talking about William.

“Don’t you think this is childish at this point?” She said a little bit louder than usual to her friend who joined in one of the conversations. William could hear those words and nodded in agreement with her, hiding a sigh.

He wanted to move closer to that girl and ask about something considering the lecture, but right at that moment, he noticed something that she had in her bag. The last copy of the book he wanted to get the day before. “Word and image in ancient Greece” by Keith Rutter.

He knew it was her. A person who took the last copy from the library. “Miss Middleton”. The reason why he recognised her so fast was simple. She was the only person attending the same course who hadn't tried to get into a chat since his first days in Fife.

The young woman at last turned her head towards the spot where he was standing. Despite her indifferent reaction to his arrival and initial thoughts about him or words spoken to her ‘classmates’ just a few seconds before, her face went bright red. William tried to hide his soft chuckle after noticing that.

“Hello, I am Steve” he introduced himself with a nickname that was already in use by a few of his friends, so as to avoid unwanted attention and shield his royal identity.

“Catherine Middleton, but everybody calls me Kate” she smiled a little

“It is such a pretty name" the prince replied with a dose of shyness and smiled back

After a few seconds, he wanted to begin a conversation about the book Catherine had ‘stolen from him’ the day before, but it did not occur. Middleton scuttled off and followed her friend into the lecture room right after her eyes met those of William's.

***

“You were talking with the prince today, Kate! How did it go? Tell me everything” her friend asked excitedly as they were sitting in Catherine’s room in the early evening.

“I’ve simply introduced myself. It is nothing extraordinary. You should know that” Catherine replied, rolling her eyes. She was quite annoyed by the behaviour of people around her. It seemed simply wrong and immature in her eyes. There was one thing she could not deny, though. He seemed to be perhaps one of the kindest people attending the same course as her. What she did not know was that while she was talking about him, William was remembering their meeting.

One of the last thoughts on his mind that day was “There is something special about her”.

*

“It is difficult to believe that the prettiest girl in Sally’s is the source of your anger” Fergus Boyd, one of the prince’s closest friends told him one afternoon after noticing Catherine in attendance at a rugby match where William played along other students, After setting his eyes on her, he was irritated, or rather tried to act as if it actually was his real emotion. She was wearing simple jeans and a jacket. Simplicity at its finest.

“Prettiest girl in Sally’s? What do you mean?” “She earned this title back in Freshers Week. You can not deny that it is correct, even if the outfit right now doesn't do her beauty much justice” Fergus replied “By the way, any plans for Saturday evening? I’ve heard someone from the third year is hosting a party..”

William did not reply. He was looking at Catherine and once more wondered if she kept a copy of that book in the bag. In the early morning, although he was aware that it was a ridiculous idea, he was even thinking of stealing it.

**

Finally came the day of the classes for which a “damned” book (as he called it) about ancient Greece was needed. Earlier, “Steve” asked some people for his “last resort”: photocopy of chapters. Unfortunately, everyone was too busy with assignments or university organisational matters. As a consequence, they could not find a few minutes to help with the necessary pages. As he sat in his chair, with embarrassment, asked a guy sitting next to him to share some of his notes.

Kate Middleton entered and sat next to another girl in the row right in front of William. His fury directed at her left for some time, but it had returned the moment he saw her. The professor frowned at the noise in the room. “For today's class, you were all supposed to bring “Word and image in ancient Greece” by Rutter. Is there anyone who doesn't have at least a photocopy?” .

William remained silent, hoping that work with the guy next to him would be enough to hide the absence of the book from the professor.

“Alright. Since you're the first year students, we all want you to get to know one another as your communication is the key to your better work. There is no better way to do that than analysing a text and a painting in pairs. Chapter II in the book, page 38. Two days ago, you were working with the person next to you. Today, try to exchange views with the person who sits behind you”.

Everyone quickly scanned the room. William looked behind himself and found a wall, literally. His row was the last one in the room.

He hid a sigh full of frustration as he heard a woman calling him “Steve? I guess we are to work together. You've got no one behind you” she chuckled lightly, but William didn't say a word in a response.

“Well..” Catherine cleared her throat “Have you finally got the book?”

The words from the professor interrupted William's thoughts: “You've got 20 to 25 minutes for a chat, and then you'll share your views with the rest of the group. Good luck!”.

Miss Middleton repeated her question and, after a second, pulled out her copy.

“I don't know what you meant by ‘finally’ because this is only my second unpreparedness. Is your copy the last one from the library?” William laughed dryly, proceeding to stare at the book cover. Kate rolled her eyes a little and blinked “How do you know?”

“It was supposed to be mine. I went to borrow, and I was told you took the last copy. It is like déjà vu from a few days ago. So this time, my ‘forgetfulness is partly your fault”

“Oh, you should've told me earlier. That way, I could share some materials. Now it is too late to make a photocopy”

“It is fine,” he said and shrugged.

“Better luck next time. We shall start analysing this text now” Middleton said.

William looked at her face finally, and a little smile escaped his lips, but soon it was replaced by a look full of concentration on text on page 38, followed by a discussion.

After twenty minutes, they shared their views with the rest of the students. As she packed her things after the class came to an end, William spoke up: “There's no requirement to bring books or anything for the next week, so you wouldn't have a chance to steal things from me again”.

Catherine wanted to apologise, but the moment she looked at him, she noted his slight smile and replied “Yes. Although, next time, go to the library right after classes end. Just a little advice. I suppose it should be easier for you next week. Everyone will get used to seeing you on a daily basis, Steve” Catherine said and sent him a friendly smile before leaving the room. William's eyes followed her for a few seconds, and his thought he tried to ignore, about her being “very special”, reappeared in his thoughts.

***

Chapter 3

[your-divine-ribs]

Ice Cold Part 11

Words: 2.2k words

Lyla arrives in Paris for the next assignment…

Ice Cold Masterlist Main Masterlist

The days following my encounter slipped by in a whirlwind of anxiety and denial. I felt like I was sleep-walking, the tenuous grip I had on reality getting weaker every time I tried to make sense of my confusing feelings.

My colleagues all thought that I was traumatised by something that had happened that night and in part that was true, but for very different reasons than whatever they could imagine. Apart from Jason of course. I had to endure his snide comments and inappropriate behaviour which was steadily getting worse. His wandering hands which would have earned him a sharp comment at the very least or a slap before were met by a pathetic weakening of my resistance. I hated myself for letting him get away with it, but in truth I was terrified by the thought of him causing trouble for me.

Paul tried to persuade me to move to a safe-house and lay low for a while, positive that Van would come back to 'finish what he'd started' but I refused. He eventually relented, so I now had an unmarked car sitting outside my apartment every night, and strict orders to report on my whereabouts at all times if I made a trip out. I felt like a prisoner in my own home, and having more time to sit around and think was driving me crazy. When I got wind of some valid intelligence that had been received about another hit expected in Paris, I found myself begging Paul to let me go, despite my better judgement.

"Please Paul, I'm losing my sanity here stuck behind a desk. I know you're worried about me but you can't mollycoddle me forever. I'm a fully trained agent and I can handle myself."

He looked conflicted as I paced in front of his desk. "Lyla, you know how I feel about this. I think your time might be better spent staying here in the office and working with Jason. He's making some real progress with mapping out where the people are based who are orchestrating all of this. If we can get to whoever's running this organisation it'll be like cutting the head off the snake."

The thought of spending time alone with Jason filled me with a sick kind of dread and I considered coming clean and telling Paul all about the harassment that I was enduring, but I was terrified that if I made life difficult for Jason he would retaliate and the shameful truth would somehow be uncovered.

I balled my hands into fists at my sides in pure frustration, stepping up to Paul's desk and looking at him with pleading eyes. "I can do this... please. Look, you said so yourself, no one has ever got so close to Van and walked away to tell the tale. I have... three times."

Paul raised his eyebrows. "Don't think you can let your guard down just because he's spared you before. Showing mercy isn't his style. Things are hotting up. They know we're closing in. That's why they're desperate to find out who our undercover agents are. Van will have strict orders to wipe out as many of us as he can."

My mind immediately pictured Van in a rage, fighting with his conscience about whether to kill me or not. The risk was real and absolute, I had no doubt about that. But there was something burning inside me which pushed the risk to one side. It was reckless and foolish but I just couldn't help myself. I felt out of control, like an addict craving a fix of the one thing that would more than likely be my demise.

"I need this... I need to prove my worth. And I can do this... I know I can. I won't let you down."

My plea hung in the air for a moment, I could see the struggle taking place in Paul's head, the promise he made to my father weighing heavily on him.

"Shit Lyla... I think you have me wrapped around your little finger sometimes," he said eventually, shaking his head. Then he frowned at me with a stern expression. "Please don't make me regret this."

So there I was, two days later, disembarking a plane at Charles de Gaulle Airport, gripping my passport tightly as I moved through arrivals.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Jen spoke from beside me.

I'd hardly spoken since we'd got on the plane, thankful that another agent, Raj, had been sat on Jen's other side. He'd taken her attention whilst I sat at the window seat, staring blindly out at the clouds, trying to convince myself that I was travelling hundreds of miles for the right reason.

"I'm fine... I'm just tired," I mumbled.

"Can't believe Paul's actually let you come," Raj chuckled as he retrieved his luggage off the baggage carousel.

"And what's that supposed to mean?" I snapped, automatically ready for a fight.

"Woah! I didn't mean anything bad!" Raj set his suitcase down and raised his hands up defensively. "I think he's worried that Van's got some kind of agenda with you, the way he keeps targeting you."

I waved a hand dismissively. "I guess I've just been in the wrong place at the wrong time. It's nothing personal."

Jen stepped forward. "He broke into your apartment. I'd say that was pretty personal!"

Before I could protest Raj was off again, an eager look on his face as he looked at me wide-eyed. "I heard about that. Bloody hell, it must have been terrifying coming face to face with him. I've been doing some work with the profiling team and he is one fucked up individual. He's an absolute psychopath, no empathy, no fear, no remorse... nothing."

My interest was piqued, I'd seen plenty of case files but I'd not been privy to his in-depth psych profile. "Have you read all about his history? Why he's the way he is? I'd love to know..."

Jen cut in. "Does it matter? We're not here to give him bloody therapy!"

"But aren't you curious?" I asked.

"No!" Jen said in a sharp tone which wasn't her usual manner. "And you shouldn't be either. Just concentrate on what we've been sent here to do. We're here to arrest him... or kill him. And I can't see him coming quietly, can you?"

Jen's statement caught me off guard but luckily Raj came to my rescue. "Well I actually think it's pretty fascinating Lyla. Did you know I had a Masters in Criminal Psychology?"

I fell into step beside Raj, making small talk about his degree studies as we made for the taxi rank. I made sure the conversation didn't stray to Van again.

We were to attend an exclusive benefits dinner and dance at a lavish hotel in a wealthy area of Paris. Word was that the assassination of yet another high society figure with connections to the underworld was to be carried out that very night. Our primary objective was to protect the target and deflect whatever attack was to be launched, securing an arrest or the termination of the perpetrator. Van. Dead or alive... by any means necessary.

Preparations for the big event were already underway when the taxi dropped us off outside the hotel and I saw countless staff milling around. I looked up, awestruck at the grand building, blowing out a breath through my pursed lips. "We're actually staying here too?"

"Perks of the job and all that!" Raj chuckled, eyes bugging as an Aston Martin pulled up outside and a chic looking couple stepped out.

"It's not a bloody holiday!" Jen huffed as we all moved towards the entrance.

I bristled at Jen's frosty demeanour which had been evident since we stepped off the plane but decided to ignore it, putting it down to stress at the vitally important assignment we were all faced with. Paul was right, things were hotting up and we couldn't afford to make any mistakes. There was only one reason that the criminal organisation we were up against would dare to carry out a hit on a high profile target in such a public place... and that was to make statement. They wanted to show they were fearless and untouchable.

We all checked in and made our way across the opulent foyer, making for the lifts.

"Right, we'll meet back here at 7pm," Raj instructed.

"Don't forget it's a black tie event," Jen piped up, giving my colleague a pointed glare, taking in his ripped jeans and scuffed boots. "I hope you've brought something suitable. Not that bloody awful suit you wear for meetings."

Raj shook his head, assuring her he'd packed his tux, and he'd be appropriately suited and booted for the evening, and then we all went our separate ways.

My room was situated on the fourth floor of the sprawling hotel and my eyes were wide as I stepped inside, taking in the vast room. The bathroom alone was bigger than my whole apartment. I walked around, running a hand over the expensive looking furnishings, marvelling at the huge bed adorned with sumptuous silk sheets. God, it looked inviting. I turned around, kicked off my boots and flopped down on to my back, practically sinking into the mattress.

I hadn't realised just how tense I was. My body felt tight, knotted with anxiety. I closed my eyes, consciously trying to relax each part of my body in turn. My toes, my legs, my back, my arms, my neck. Of course it was all well and good relaxing my body but what of my mind?

My thoughts slipped back through the years to when I'd attended therapy as a child. Sleep hadn't come easily to me then, the night time just bringing back all the horrors of that fateful night that I'd watched my dad die. My therapist had taught me some simple relaxation and breathing techniques and I did them now, focussing hard on slowing my inhales and exhales, trying to clear my mind but it was no use. Van flooded my thoughts completely.

I sighed, getting purposefully to my feet and stepping across to the large gilt framed mirror. My reflection stared back at me defiantly, daring me to judge. I could do this. I was strong. I just needed to get my head straight. I didn't need Van to satisfy me... or any man for that matter. All those guys that I'd picked up and fucked, I hadn't needed them. They were just a means to an end... but to what end? Much as I told myself I was in control of my life I was starting to doubt it more and more each day. That niggly feeling that the only reason I craved these encounters, each one more sordid than the last, was because I was dead inside taunted me. I just needed something or someone to make me feel alive again. And Van made me feel alive.

I sank back down on to the silk sheets once again, letting my thoughts stray to forbidden territories. In my mind's eye Van hovered over me whilst I lay prone on the bed, his hands fixed firmly around my wrists, securing them over my head whilst he slowly pushed my thighs apart with his knees. The piercing look in his eyes told me that I was his to do with as he pleased and the thought shivered me through with a desire so strong that I pressed my thighs together to ease the ache I felt there. I squirmed on the bed, frustrated beyond belief, eventually pushing myself up, feeling angry for not being able to control my feelings. It was getting worse, steadily worse, and each encounter only made me crave him even more. And what happened next time? Would I still feel the same with a gun pressed against my head or a knife held to my throat? I had to stop this now or it would be the death of me, I was sure of that.

I quickly unpacked, then showered and selected my attire for the evening. Even though I was on a dangerous mission I would still have to blend in with the other guests. My hands danced across the underwear sets that I'd packed, coming to rest on a beautiful deep red set with intricate lace detail I only ever wore when my aim was to seduce. I slipped into it, telling myself that I'd only chosen it tonight because it went perfectly with the red silk evening dress I'd planned to wear. The dress was stunning, with a plunging neckline and a deep slit from the floor right up to my upper thigh. Last but not least I lifted up the dress, securing a special thigh holster which I slipped a small, discreet handgun into.

I stepped back, perusing my reflection once more. I really did look the part... now I just needed to feel the part. I needed to take control of my life, do the right thing for once. I could do this. I had to do this. I was ready.

[maverickrojas]

“You’ve got it all wrong, Mav. Honestly, we’re just friends. Best friends.” 

If that was the argument Ellie was sticking with, then Maverick Rojas was not going to be the one to disagree with her. That said, he couldn’t help but smile at her over his coffee, tittering as she rewarded him with a roll of her eyes, her contagious laughter soon following the action. Elizabeth Smith was probably his favourite coworker, though it would take an army to get him to admit as much. It wasn’t that he disliked any of the other teachers, not by a longshot, but Ellie was the only one who truly shared his passion for teaching, the only one that even seemed to like her students at all. Her friendship – as she so delicately kept insisting that’s all it is! – with her best friend Mac was the talk of the town. Or, at the very least, their little Elementary School staff room. The teachers, Maverick included, loved to tease her about how dreamy her friend was, the tips of Ellie’s ears tinging a deeper shade of pink. Maverick, inexperienced as he was, had always thought that Mac – or perhaps Reid, as only she seemed to call him – was in love with Ellie, but the young teacher seemed to insist otherwise. Still, it made for some light, but terribly fun, ribbing over a cup of coffee before the start of their working day. 

There was still over an hour to go until the bell tolled, calling for the start of the school day. 7:00am and both Ellie and Maverick were chitter chatting in the staff room like two old maids, delighting in one another’s company and always the first to arrive – with the exception of the caretaker. As the two nattered away, swapping stories about students, gushing over pictures of Dylan – Ellie's little boy, who was prepping hard for the upcoming talent show – the door to the faculty lounge swung open, creaking on its hinges as it went.  

“There’s a delivery waiting for you outside, Mr Rojas,” Anette told him. Anette was their school secretary, and try as he might to love and adore her, she seemed to detest him with all her might. Her accent made his name sound dirty and broken, her disdain plain on her face whenever she passed him in the hallway, or when he greeted her upon her arrival for the day. It hurt a little, to know that she thought ill of him for whatever reason, and yet he couldn’t help but be charmed by the reproachful way she looked down at him, glasses perched on the very tip of her nose. Ellie had once said she resembled Roz from Monsters Inc, and despite his best behaviour, it had always stuck with him. “Vice Principal Diaz said he assigned you to handle it. Lord knows why.” 

With that, she turned on her heel, offering him no more information, nor even so much as a kindly smile for young Elizabeth. The latter of the two then stuck out her tongue, blowing raspberries in a delightful way to announce Anette’s departure, and Maverick grinned back at her, crinkling his nose in delight. 

“You’re so naughty!” he laughed, shaking his head. He gave her a playful wink and a quick flourish of his hand, waving her goodbye for the time being. “Righty-o, off to work I go!” 

Pushing to his feet, Maverick set his coffee to the side and gave the front of his jeans a quick wipe down, ridding himself of any residue crumbs that his cookie may have left behind. He knew exactly what the delivery was, and why he’d been left in charge. With such a good friend in Simon Hudson, the two had managed to sweet talk Billy into helping the school out. In a gesture that Maverick thought was just the darn sweetest, Billy had told him that every year A Novel Idea donates a number of money and books to varying organisations, schools, libraries, and children that they thought might benefit from them. Luckily for Maverick, his students were about to benefit greatly from the other man’s kindness. 

“Thank you kindly for all your hard work, my sweet li’l messenger bird,” Maverick doted on Anette as he strolled through the door behind her, smiling sweetly as he did so.  

She did not return his smile in kind, nor did she seem particularly happy with his assessment of her, but such was life. You couldn’t please everybody, after all. Turning his attention away from her desk, his eyes finally strayed to the entryway before him. Squinting through the glass door, his gaze landed on several large boxes that were placed, somewhat precariously, on the steps leading into the building. Beside them, frankly, was a man so handsome that, were it the 1950’s, Maverick might have been caught clutching his pearls while Anette fanned him desperately with her paperwork. 

“Now that sure is a mighty delivery you have there,” Maverick stated, slipping out onto the small set of steps, the automatic doors now open wide behind him. “You, sir, are about to make my kiddos very happy.” 

[adhdfidgettoys]

Using Movement to Alleviate Restlessness With Fidget Toys for ADHD

Fidget toys for ADHD offer a more useful outlet and validate the impulse to move rather than trying to stifle it. Hyperactivity is one of the most noticeable signs of ADHD and is frequently seen as restlessness, continual movement, or an inability to remain still for extended periods. This bodily restlessness is a biological requirement that many people with ADHD experience regularly; it's not merely a behaviour problem.

Increasing Cognitive Engagement and Focus

Many individuals with ADHD have trouble focusing, particularly when working on jobs that call for extended periods of focus. This is true in professional and academic contexts, when maintaining mental focus can be especially difficult. By providing a supplementary, modest job that engages the restless area of the brain, fidget toys aid in bridging that gap.

People may frequently focus more effectively on their main job, such as reading, listening, or working on assignments, while they are involved in a repetitive, tactile activity. Rolling beads between fingers, squeezing a stress ball, or spinning a tiny disc are all techniques that assist in relaxing the nervous system without causing significant disturbances.

Clever Remedies for Problems at Work

Childhood is not the end of ADHD. Managing deadlines, maintaining organisation, and maintaining attention during meetings are just a few of the challenges that many individuals with the illness encounter at work. Adults may manage their energy and concentration in a discrete, non-intrusive manner using fidget toys without disturbing their coworkers. Fidget rings, spinners, and textured pens are examples of small, silent toys that may be utilised covertly while on lengthy phone conversations or at a workplace.

Despite their seemingly straightforward appearance, fidget toys have a significant influence on people with ADHD. These techniques are a vital component of many people's ADHD treatment arsenal, as they may help channel restlessness, enhance attention, help with emotional control, and boost academic and professional success.

Source

[lautheraven]

⚖️ Power, Accountability & Public Trust: The Patrick Spencer Case

Outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court, MP Patrick Spencer was filmed leaving the premises — charged with two counts of sexual assault allegedly committed in August 2023 at London’s Groucho Club.

As headlines unravel, one thing becomes painfully clear: the public’s trust in leadership is again on trial. Elected officials are held to higher standards — and when those expectations are shattered, it triggers not just outrage, but a re-examination of how power is managed and regulated.

For students studying HR ethics, leadership, or organisational behaviour, cases like this bring textbook scenarios to real life. They pose hard questions:

How should institutions respond when someone in authority faces criminal allegations?

What’s the role of HR in crisis communications and internal investigations?

How can organisations cultivate accountability and trust from within?

If you’re writing a paper or project that touches on ethics, governance, or leadership, don’t go it alone.

👉 CIPD Assignment Help 👈 offers expert academic support tailored to your course level, helping you tackle tough topics with clarity and structure.

Scandals may dominate the news, but informed thinking shapes the future.

[govindhtech]

Quantum Annealing In Gene Regulation & Chromatin Folding

Researchers simulated chromatin using quantum annealing. Traditional gene regulation modelling methods have shortcomings. This method solves them.

Describe Quantum Annealing.

Quantum-annealing metaheuristic optimisation finds a system's low-energy states using quantum mechanics. Many exciting problems can be reduced to optimisation problems that involve exploring a landscape for the lowest point, like identifying minima in an energy landscape. Quantum annealing allows many coordinates due to superposition.

As annealing continues, the likelihood of being at any coordinate smoothly increases near deeper troughs. Quantum tunnelling also lets the system escape states that are not the lowest energy locations by going over high terrain instead of traversing it. QUBO is a problem type that can be used with quantum annealing, and it must be formulated this way. D-Wave software helps quantum devices address difficulties.

Quantum Annealing Chromatin Folding

Quantum annealing revealed stable, biologically realistic chromatin conformations for chromatin analysis. Researchers used quantum annealing to model and sample the complex energy landscapes driving TAD formation and chromatin shape.

The work computationally models nucleosomes as different variables that interact. Genomic and epigenomic data define these linkages' strength. From this interaction network, an Ising model, a well-known statistical mechanics mathematical framework for interacting "spins," is built. This chromatin model represents nucleosome states as "spins."

The Ising model of chromatin interactions is “embedded” onto a quantum processor for processing via quantum annealing. Using genomic and epigenomic data, researchers can calculate the low-energy states of this Ising model to predict the most stable chromatin folding.

Hardware and practicalities

The researchers employed the D-Wave Advantage quantum annealing processor. D-Wave, a Canadian company that commercialised quantum technologies, supplies the military and Volkswagen. Superconducting qubits cooled to exceptionally low temperatures are employed in D-wave systems.

Connecting qubits creates an addressable grid. Encoding interactions, assigning weights to qubits, and designing the problem so that qubit interactions on the device represent the underlying problem are required to program them. The lowest-energy solutions are returned when the system is sampled after the problem is defined. It often takes multiple attempts to obtain an answer because it is probabilistic.

The "target topology," or physical connectivity of the qubits on the quantum processor, dramatically affects the model's embeddability. The D-Wave Advantage offers Zephyr, Pegasus, and Chimaera topologies. Since Pegasus and Zephyr topologies utilise less qubits than Chimaera to simulate full-scale epigenetic systems, they better capture chromatin's complicated interactions.

Simulations of larger, more complex chromatin structures were possible using optimisation. Open border conditions allow chromatin chain ends to move freely, and coupling thresholding eliminates weak nucleosome connections. These precise modifications are needed to imprint complex models like full-scale models with parameters onto the D-Wave processor. Analysis showed that open boundary conditions consistently yielded shorter chain lengths than periodic boundary conditions.

Analysis of scaling behaviour showed how sensitive the model was to medium-scale model variables such maximal coupling length, nucleosome count, and epigenetic markers. Analysing binarized epigenetic mark datasets guides model building and validation. The researchers' recognition of the D-Wave Advantage machine's unique annealing functions stressed the importance of matching the model to the quantum hardware.

Quantum computing provides new insights into genomic organisation and gene expression from epigenetic modifications. It affects understanding biological processes and possibly developing new genetic disease treatments. Future study will examine more complex chromatin configurations and add biological components to the model.

Quantum reservoir computing enhances material deterioration forecasts.

New Chaotic Symbolic Trajectories Cryptography Resists Attacks.

Hamiltonian reservoir computing predicts without memory or feedback.

Effective Thermal State Preparation via Local Quantum Simulation and Reset.

AI Models Increase Indian Crop Yields using Climate and Economic Data.

Optimising quantum hardware issue transformations with structured analysis.

NSF Supports AI-Powered Immunotherapy Design Acceleration.

In conclusion

Quantum annealing relates chromatin's intricate folding to a quantum hardware optimisation problem to show how epigenetic markings affect 3D genome structure and gene control.

[sheetal132]

The Role of CRM Software in Data Security and Compliance

 

Introducton

In the age of the digital-first economy, data security for CRM software is a necessity rather than a nice-to-have. Organisations deal with an incredible amount of customer data, ranging from contact information to behavioural insights. Data is great for personalisation and marketing, but data also comes with risks, particularly if not securely managed.

The increasing demand for strong data governance practices will only increase as compliance regulations emerge, such as GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and others. Non-compliance may lead to penalties or massive fines, but more importantly, loss of customer trust.

In this article, we discuss how Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems help businesses protect sensitive customer information while remaining compliant with regulations.

Why Data Security is Important in Customer Relationship Management

CRM is based on trust. Clients provide their information trusting it to be stored securely and used fairly. This is where customer data security in CRM is especially mission-critical.

Risks of Inadequate Data Security:

Leaked private customer information due to data breaches

Fraud and misuse stemming from unauthorized access

Non-compliance with local and international data protection laws

Customer churn from reputational damage

CRM systems store more than names and numbers—they house purchase history, preferences, communication logs, and financial data. A breach of this data can have catastrophic consequences for both the customer and the business.

Important Data Security Features of CRM Software

Today's CRM software data security features are more than just basic password protection. Leading platforms take a multi-layered security approach to protect their software from internal and external threats.

1. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

With CRM systems, permissions can be assigned based on roles. Not all employees need access to every record.

2. End-to-end Encryption

Data at rest and data in transit are encrypted to ensure they cannot be hacked or corrupted during transit.

3. Multi-Factor Authentication

Provides an extra layer of protection by requiring a secondary form of verification in addition to the password.

4. Secure APIs

APIs are gateways for integrations. Secure CRM software will limit API calls and use encrypted endpoints.

5. Real-Time Threat Detection

AI-powered CRMs can detect unusual activities, unauthorised logins, or suspicious data access patterns in real-time.

6. Regular Backups and Disaster Recovery

Systems are automatically backed up, ensuring data recovery in the event of loss or corruption.

These CRM security features help organisations stay ahead of cyber threats while providing peace of mind to customers.

How CRM Software Helps Ensure Regulatory Compliance

In addition to protecting customer data, CRMs can provide a strategy for CRMs compliance management to help organisations comply with laws for user privacy protection.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 

CRMs in the EU or with EU citizens must: 

Allow users to see all stored personal data upon request

Provide for the "right to be forgotten" by deleting the user data upon request

Provide user consent tracking

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Healthcare CRMs must safeguard Protected Health Information (PHI) by:

Using encryption

Limiting access to authorized staff

Maintaining audit logs

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

For California residents:

Data must be disclosed upon request

Customers can opt-out of data sale

Personal data must be deleted upon request

CRMs ensure compliance by automating these processes and maintaining logs to prove compliance during audits.

Advantages of Using CRM for Data Security and Compliance

1. Centralised Data Storage

All customer information is stored in one system with a CRM, making it easier to secure and audit.

2. Streamlining Compliance Activities

Using a CRM provides built-in consent tracking, privacy settings, and access and authorisations for customers to make it easier to meet the regulations.

3. Increased Customer Trust

With transparency tools (e.g., a tool allowing customers to view and/or edit their data) customers are offered increased trust in the business, providing an opportunity for loyalty.

4. Automation Eliminates Human Error

Automating business processes related to sensitive tasks, such as deletion or alteration of customer data, is already handled by a CRM, so there is a reduced chance of the customer interaction causing human error.

5. Scale

Security features for CRM have better opportunities to scale with behaviour compared to regulations, which is important when handling larger datasets as your business grows.

Barriers to Security Compliance and Data Integrity with CRM and Ways to Address 

Although CRMs leverage great tools, there are barriers.

1. User Negligence.

No amount of software can prevent bad behaviour from the users.

   Solution: Require ongoing training and role-based access.

2. Loose Integration Security.

Integration of third-party apps with a CRM creates data exposure.

  Solution: Review every integration and require CRMs with secure API management.

 3. Lack of Configuration.

By default, a feature might not facilitate your privacy.

  Solution: Review and configure privacy and compliance features on the software onboarding.

4. Data Sprawl.

Ultimately, data will reside everywhere for a multitude of reasons, which can lead to a security risk.

   Solution: Use your CRM as the only source of truth for customer data.

Consequently, with a proactive attitude, barriers will flip into opportunities for greater security compliance and data integration

Conclusion

In an era where data breaches and privacy laws are often highlighted in the news, having a data security strategy for your CRM software is no longer optional; it is simply a necessity. CRM platforms like Salesforce, Zoho, HubSpot, and others have evolved to be more than a place to manage customer relationships. They now stand guard over your business's most precious asset: customer trust.

Employing data privacy with CRM software means that your business not only is being compliant with global regulations but also is establishing a brand that is stronger and safer. As cybersecurity threats evolve, so too should your tools, with CRM software leading the charge.

FAQs

What is CRM Data Security?

 CRM data security refers to the tools and protocols in place in CRM software to protect customer data from unauthorised access, breaches, or misuse.

 Can a CRM system assist with GDPR compliance?

 Yes. A GDPR compliant CRM will include tools for consent management, data access logs, and the ability to delete user data when requested.

 What are the most vital CRM security features?

 Encryption, role-based access control, multi-factor authentication, audit trails, and API.

Is CRM software good for small businesses concerned about data privacy? 

 Yes. Almost all modern CRM systems not only have sophisticated security features but unnecessary security is a waste of cost

[officialarnold-devt]

Strategic Planning Tactics That Drive Long-Term Success

Understanding the Essence of Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is a structured process that organisations use to define their direction, make informed decisions, and allocate resources effectively to achieve long-term goals. It plays a pivotal role in navigating changing market dynamics, aligning operations with mission and vision, and fostering sustainable growth.

In the Australian business environment, marked by competitive pressures and rapid technological advancements, strategic planning serves as a cornerstone for resilience and innovation. It enables organisations to anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and maintain a clear focus on objectives.

The Core Components of Strategic Planning

To drive long-term success, strategic planning must be built on a foundation of well-defined components. Each element plays a critical role in shaping the overall strategy:

Mission and Vision Statements: Clearly articulating the organisation’s purpose and future aspirations ensures that all efforts remain aligned and focused.

Environmental Scanning: Analysing internal strengths and weaknesses, along with external opportunities and threats, helps identify areas for improvement and competitive advantage.

Goal Setting: Establishing measurable, achievable, and time-bound goals is essential for tracking progress and maintaining accountability.

Strategy Formulation: This involves selecting the most appropriate course of action to achieve the set objectives based on available resources and market insights.

Implementation Plans: Developing actionable steps, assigning responsibilities, and establishing timelines ensure that strategies are executed effectively.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly reviewing performance metrics and outcomes allows organisations to adjust strategies as needed and stay on course.

Effective Strategic Planning Tactics for Long-Term Success

Organisations that thrive in competitive markets typically adopt proven strategic planning tactics to enhance their long-term success:

1. Align Strategy with Core Values and Culture Embedding organisational values into the strategic framework fosters unity and commitment. When employees understand how their roles contribute to the broader mission, engagement and productivity increase.

2. Involve Stakeholders in the Planning Process Engaging key stakeholders, including team members, partners, and customers, provides diverse perspectives and promotes buy-in. Collaborative strategic planning often results in more innovative and practical strategies.

3. Prioritise Flexibility and Adaptability In an ever-evolving market, rigid plans can quickly become obsolete. Adaptive strategic planning enables organisations to respond promptly to disruptions and maintain momentum.

4. Embrace Data-Driven Decision Making Incorporating data analytics into the strategic planning process allows for objective decision-making. Real-time insights into customer behaviour, market trends, and financial performance improve the accuracy of strategic choices.

5. Invest in Leadership Development Strong leadership is essential to the successful execution of any strategy. Ongoing development programs cultivate strategic thinking and empower leaders to guide their teams effectively through change.

6. Integrate Sustainability into Strategy Australian businesses increasingly recognise the value of incorporating environmental and social sustainability into their strategic plans. This approach not only enhances brand reputation but also aligns with regulatory expectations and consumer preferences.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While strategic planning offers significant benefits, several challenges can hinder its effectiveness:

Lack of Clear Communication: Miscommunication of strategic goals can lead to misalignment across departments. Ensuring transparency and clarity at all levels mitigates this risk.

Resistance to Change: Employees may be hesitant to adopt new strategies. Addressing concerns early and fostering a culture of continuous improvement encourages acceptance.

Insufficient Resource Allocation: Underestimating the resources required can derail strategy execution. Accurate budgeting and capacity planning are vital.

Neglecting Regular Reviews: Without consistent evaluation, strategies can drift off course. Scheduled performance reviews and feedback loops keep plans relevant and impactful.

The Strategic Advantage for Australian Enterprises

For organisations operating in the diverse and competitive Australian market, effective strategic planning provides a distinct edge. Whether scaling operations, entering new markets, or enhancing service delivery, a well-crafted strategy ensures clarity, coherence, and continuity.

Moreover, with increased emphasis on digital transformation, regulatory compliance, and sustainability, Australian businesses must evolve their planning frameworks to address these emerging priorities. By integrating long-term vision with agile execution, companies can secure enduring success.

Conclusion

Achieving long-term success requires more than short-term initiatives or reactive decision-making. Strategic planning is the disciplined approach that aligns an organisation’s goals with its operational capabilities and external environment. When executed effectively, it not only enhances performance but also prepares businesses to thrive amid uncertainty and change.

In the Australian context, where innovation, resilience, and adaptability are paramount, mastering the art of strategic planning can define the difference between surviving and thriving. Through continuous refinement, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven insights, businesses can unlock their full potential and achieve lasting growth.

[jackevans2023]

The Blueprint Behind Business Giants: Why Strategic Planning Isn’t Optional Anymore

All successful businesses share a key trait—they achieved their success through deliberate effort, not by chance. Behind every billion-dollar brand, scaling startup, or industry disruptor lies one essential ingredient: strategic planning. Not just goal setting, not just vision boards. We're talking about structured, insight-driven, agile strategic planning services that align every move with long-term business growth. 

While many businesses still react to market changes, the most successful ones stay ten steps ahead. How? By partnering with expert strategic planning consultants who bring clarity to chaos and purpose to action. 

Let’s explain why strategic planning isn’t just important—it’s a competitive edge. 

What Is Strategic Planning? 

Contrary to popular belief, strategic planning isn’t just an annual meeting or a pretty PowerPoint presentation. It’s a dynamic process that answers: 

Where are we now? 

Where do we want to go? 

How will we get there? 

What might get in our way? 

Professional strategic planning firms use this framework to set measurable goals, prioritize initiatives, allocate resources effectively, and define clear success metrics. It transforms vision into an actionable strategy. 

Why Strategic Planning Is No Longer a Luxury 

In today’s volatile business climate, being reactive is dangerous. With technological disruption, shifting consumer behaviour, and global uncertainty, businesses that lack strategy often find themselves in firefighting mode. 

Here’s why companies are investing more than ever in strategic planning consulting services: 

Faster, Smarter Decision-Making: When you have a strategy, decisions become data-driven, not emotion-driven. 

Alignment Across Teams: Everyone from marketing to operations is rowing in the same direction. 

Risk Mitigation: Anticipating risks allows firms to pivot quickly without losing momentum. 

Long-Term Vision: Strategy keeps businesses grounded and growth-focused, even when short-term distractions arise. 

Strategic Planning in Action: What It Looks Like 

Effective strategic planning companies begin with discovery—analysing internal strengths, external threats, and market trends. Then, they guide organisations through steps like: 

Vision and Mission Reassessment: Businesses evolve. So should their foundational goals. 

SWOT and Gap Analysis: Identify what’s working, what’s not, and where you’re falling short. 

Goal Setting with KPIs: Clear, measurable targets that align with overarching objectives. 

Action Planning: Specific initiatives, assigned responsibilities, and realistic timelines. 

Monitoring and Review: Strategy is never set-and-forget. Continuous evaluation is key. 

When executed well, this process isn’t just internal—it changes how the business shows up in the market. 

Strategic Planning vs. Business Planning 

Many confuse strategic planning with business or operational planning. Here’s the difference: 

Business Planning centers on the "what," which encompasses daily execution tasks. 

Strategic planning emphasizes the reasons and methods for achieving enduring impact. 

Strategic planning provides a high-level framework that informs every business plan thereafter. It’s the master map, not just the directions. 

Signs Your Business Needs Strategic Planning Help 

If your company experiences any of the following, it might be time to engage a strategic planning consultant: 

Growth has plateaued, and you're not sure why. 

Departments are working in silos with conflicting goals. 

You're reacting to trends instead of driving them. 

You're launching initiatives that feel disconnected. 

Leadership lacks clarity on the next 3–5 years. 

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many companies are running fast, but in circles. 

Choosing the Right Strategic Planning Firm 

The best strategic planning companies aren’t just facilitators—they’re partners. Here’s what to look for: 

Proven industry experience 

A customised approach (not templated strategies) 

Transparent communication 

Strong analytical capabilities 

Emphasis on implementation, not just documentation 

Most importantly, the right firm becomes an extension of your leadership, challenging assumptions, sparking new ideas, and driving transformation. 

When growth matters, strategy matters more. 

Companies that treat strategic planning as an annual chore often stagnate. The ones that treat it as a continuous, intentional process become market leaders. That’s where experienced partners like New Direction Capital make a difference. Their deep expertise in strategic planning services and real-world business insight helps organisations turn uncertainty into opportunity and goals into results. 

Ready to stop guessing and start growing? Strategic clarity begins with the right plan—and the right partner.

[katherinemathew]

How Psychiatrists Help with ADHD: Diagnosis & Treatment

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects people of all ages, but it’s still widely misunderstood. It’s not simply about being restless or struggling to pay attention. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that shapes the way someone thinks, behaves, and connects with those around them. It can make everyday things like learning, working, or maintaining relationships feel harder than usual. With the right guidance and care, people with ADHD can do incredibly well-living meaningful, well-rounded lives and reaching their goals in ways that work best for them. Understanding how psychiatrists help with the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD is an important first step in seeking support.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a complex condition that usually starts in childhood, but its impact often continues into adulthood, affecting various aspects of daily life over time. It’s marked by ongoing challenges with attention, impulsive behaviour, and restlessness — all of which can make day-to-day life more difficult. ADHD looks different for everyone-there’s no one-size-fits-all experience. For some, the impact might be mild, while for others, it can be more disruptive to daily life.

Individuals with ADHD may experience

Difficulty focusing on tasks or activities for extended periods of time.

Frequent mistakes due to lack of attention to detail.

Trouble following instructions or completing assignments.

Forgetfulness and poor organisational skills.

Hyperactivity Symptoms

These may include:

Fidgeting, squirming, or being unable to sit still.

Difficulty staying quiet or relaxing in situations that require calmness.

Constant movement and excessive talking.

Signs of impulsivity can show as:

Acting without thinking about the

Interrupting others during conversations or activities.

Difficulty waiting for a turn in social or work situations.

For many, ADHD can have a major impact on education, employment, relationships, and self-esteem. ADHD often exists alongside other conditions like anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties, which can add extra layers of challenge for those affected.

How Psychiatrists Help Diagnose ADHD

Psychiatrists are medical doctors with expertise in mental health. They are instrumental in diagnosing ADHD through a thorough evaluation process. Their expertise is particularly important because many of the symptoms of ADHD overlap with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, making an accurate diagnosis crucial.

Diagnosing ADHD usually starts with a thorough one-on-one chat with a psychiatrist. In this initial session, they’ll ask about your symptoms, overall health, and any family history of similar conditions to help build a clear picture of what’s going on. They will also want to know how the symptoms are affecting the individual’s daily life, both at home and in work or social settings.

For children, the ADHD psychiatrist will often speak with parents, teachers, and others involved in the child’s life to get a full picture of how the symptoms manifest in different environments. This helps the psychiatrist determine whether the symptoms are consistent across various situations, which is essential for a proper diagnosis.

2. Standardised Rating Scales

Alongside personal interviews, psychiatrists also use standardised assessment tools to better understand how often ADHD symptoms occur and how much they impact daily life. These tools, such as the Conners Rating Scales and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), are designed to quantify symptoms and provide a clear, structured method for evaluation.

By using these scales, psychiatrists can compare the patient’s reported symptoms with the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. The scales also help to identify whether the symptoms are affecting daily functioning or causing significant distress.

3. Rule Out Other Conditions

Because ADHD symptoms can look a lot like those of other conditions — like anxiety, depression, or even sleep issues — it’s important for a psychiatrist to explore all possibilities. Part of the process involves ruling out other causes to make sure the diagnosis is accurate and that the right support is provided. This process may involve further assessment to identify whether another condition might be contributing to the individual’s struggles.

4. Collaborating with Other Healthcare Providers

When diagnosing ADHD, psychiatrists may collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists, educational specialists, or general practitioners. This collaboration allows for a more comprehensive evaluation, ensuring that all aspects of the individual’s health and functioning are considered before a diagnosis is made.

Treatment Approaches for ADHD

After an ADHD diagnosis is confirmed, psychiatrists work with individuals and their families to develop a personalised treatment plan. The main aim of ADHD treatment is to ease symptoms, boost daily functioning, and help improve overall quality of life. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but a mix of proven strategies — including medication, therapy, and practical lifestyle changes — can make a real difference.

Medication is often an essential component of ADHD treatment. Stimulant medications — like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall) — are often prescribed to help manage ADHD symptoms. They work by boosting key brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a role in focus, attention, and self-control.

While stimulant medications work well for many people with ADHD, they’re not the right fit for everyone. Some individuals might experience side effects, like trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, or heightened anxiety. For those who don’t respond well to stimulants, non-stimulant options, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine (Intuniv), may be considered instead.

A psychiatrist will monitor the individual closely while they are on medication, adjusting the dosage or switching medications as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.

2. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

While medication can help manage ADHD symptoms, therapy is also an essential part of treatment. One of the most effective forms of therapy for ADHD is cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their ADHD symptoms and teaches strategies for managing them.

CBT can help individuals with ADHD:

CBT is particularly effective for individuals with ADHD who also struggle with co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression. By addressing both ADHD symptoms and the emotional challenges that often accompany the disorder, CBT provides a holistic approach to treatment.

Educating the individual and their family about ADHD is an important part of treatment. Psychoeducation helps individuals better understand the nature of their condition, reduce stigma, and develop strategies for managing their symptoms.

When it comes to children, psychoeducation often means guiding parents and teachers to create a supportive environment for learning and growth. This might involve building consistent routines, setting clear and realistic expectations, and using positive reinforcement to encourage helpful behaviours.

For adults with ADHD, psychoeducation can provide valuable insights into how the condition affects their daily lives and help them develop effective strategies for managing work, relationships, and other responsibilities.

4. Lifestyle Modifications

Psychiatrists often recommend lifestyle changes that complement other forms of treatment. These may include:

5. Support for Co-occurring Conditions

People with ADHD often face additional challenges like anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties. Psychiatrists play a key role in recognising and treating these overlapping conditions, helping to ensure individuals receive well-rounded, supportive care.

For example, an individual with both ADHD and anxiety might be prescribed medications to manage anxiety symptoms while also engaging in CBT to address ADHD-related difficulties.

Telehealth Services for ADHD in Australia

Accessing care for ADHD in Australia can sometimes be challenging, especially in rural and remote areas where specialists may be scarce. Fortunately, telehealth services have made it easier for Australians to access ADHD diagnosis and treatment, no matter where they live.

Telehealth allows individuals to consult with medical specialists Online remotely via video calls or phone consultations. For ADHD treatment, telehealth offers several benefits:

Confidentiality: Remote consultations ensure that individuals can maintain their privacy while seeking help.

Ongoing Support: Telehealth makes it easy for individuals to stay connected with their psychiatrists, ensuring that treatment plans are updated and adjusted as needed.

Several telehealth services in Australia specialise in ADHD care, including platforms like HelloDoc, eMed Specialist, and Akkadian Health. These services offer online consultations with experienced psychiatrists who can provide expert guidance on managing ADHD.

Finding the Right Psychiatrist for ADHD

When seeking a psychiatrist for ADHD treatment, there are several important factors to consider:

Conclusion

Psychiatrists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating ADHD. Through a thorough assessment, including clinical interviews, rating scales, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals, psychiatrists can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan. Treatment often includes medication, therapy, psychoeducation, and lifestyle modifications that help individuals manage their symptoms effectively.

[alliancecare]

Premium Private Carers Croydon: Compassionate, Tailored Support in Your Own Home

Reliable Private Carers Croydon Offering Unmatched Personalised Care

We proudly provide private carers Croydon families trust for professional, discreet, and compassionate home-based care. Our experienced carers are dedicated to delivering bespoke support that respects your privacy, routines, and independence. Whether the need is for short-term recovery assistance or long-term care, our services are built around the individual needs of each client.

We understand the challenges of finding the right carer. That’s why we work closely with families to ensure each care arrangement is tailored, flexible, and delivered by someone who genuinely cares.

What Makes Our Private Carers in Croydon Stand Out

Our private carers Croydon service is designed to uphold the highest standards of care, integrity, and consistency. We go beyond simply assigning a carer; we create lasting, meaningful relationships between clients and caregivers.

Each of our carers is:

DBS-checked and fully insured

Trained to meet a wide range of needs, including dementia and palliative care

Empathetic and friendly with a patient-centered mindset

Experienced in working with individuals of all ages and conditions

Flexible and responsive to changing requirements

Whether you require part-time visits or 24/7 live-in support, our goal is to ensure clients feel safe, respected, and valued in their own homes.

Flexible Services Offered by Private Carers in Croydon

Our private carers Croydon deliver a broad spectrum of services, tailored for maximum impact and comfort. These include:

Personal care: Assistance with washing, dressing, grooming, and continence.

Medication support: Reminders or administration of prescribed medication.

Mobility assistance: Helping clients move safely around the home or during outings.

Meal preparation: Nutritious meal planning, cooking, and assistance with feeding.

Household tasks: Light housekeeping, laundry, and organisation.

Companionship care: Friendly conversations, emotional support, and social engagement.

Overnight care: Peaceful, safe supervision during nighttime hours.

Live-in care: Round-the-clock presence for clients requiring full-time attention.

We tailor each care package based on needs, ensuring that every hour of care adds value, comfort, and dignity.

Live-In Private Carers for 24/7 Support in Croydon

Our live-in private carers Croydon service is ideal for clients who require continuous assistance. Live-in carers remain in the home, offering reassurance and round-the-clock support for:

Individuals with complex health conditions

Those with limited mobility or risk of falls

Clients experiencing advanced stages of dementia

People recovering from surgeries or strokes

Live-in care promotes independence while ensuring your loved one receives consistent, reliable help in a familiar environment.

Palliative and End-of-Life Care with Dignity

We offer sensitive and supportive palliative care through our private carers Croydon, ensuring clients live as comfortably and peacefully as possible. Working closely with healthcare professionals, we provide:

Pain management support

Emotional and psychological comfort

Hygiene and mobility assistance

Support for family members

Our approach is gentle, dignified, and entirely focused on the comfort of the individual and the peace of their loved ones.

Specialist Dementia Care in the Comfort of Home

Dementia presents unique challenges for both individuals and their families. Our private carers Croydon are extensively trained in dementia-specific care techniques and strategies, offering:

Safe routines and environments

Memory-stimulating activities

Compassionate communication

Behavioural support and monitoring

Collaboration with medical professionals and family members

We focus on reducing anxiety, enhancing safety, and preserving the identity and dignity of those living with dementia.

Private Carers for Respite and Family Support

Caring for a loved one is a selfless act—but everyone needs rest. Our private carers Croydon can step in temporarily to:

Provide short-term care during family vacations

Relieve family caregivers during illness or personal emergencies

Support during weekends, holidays, or unexpected absences

We offer respite care that blends seamlessly into existing routines, allowing families to recharge while knowing their loved one is in capable hands.

Tailored Care Plans Built Around You

Our bespoke care approach begins with a free home assessment, during which we listen carefully to the needs, preferences, and goals of the individual. Based on this, we develop a customised care plan that can be adjusted as circumstances evolve.

Each private carer Croydon plan includes:

Detailed care objectives

Daily routines and preferences

Nutritional requirements

Medical needs and alerts

Cultural, religious, or lifestyle considerations

We believe care should enhance quality of life—our tailored plans are a reflection of that commitment.

Why Choose Our Private Carers in Croydon

Choosing the right care provider is a deeply personal decision. Families across Croydon trust us for our:

Highly trained, vetted, and compassionate carers

Commitment to personalised care with dignity

Clear and flexible pricing with no hidden costs

24/7 support and communication

Transparent matching process for ideal carer compatibility

We operate with honesty, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility. With us, you're not just choosing care—you're choosing peace of mind.

Affordable Private Care in Croydon with Transparent Pricing

Our private carers Croydon offer outstanding value without compromising on quality. We believe everyone deserves access to premium care, which is why we provide:

Hourly, daily, and live-in rates

Flexible packages suited to all budgets

Clear contracts with no hidden extras

Support with funding applications if applicable

We aim to make private care accessible, manageable, and completely transparent from day one.

How to Arrange Private Carers in Croydon Today

Getting started is simple. To arrange your private carers Croydon service:

Contact us via phone or email for a friendly consultation.

Book a free home assessment at your convenience.

Meet your matched carer, based on personality, skills, and availability.

Begin your personalised care journey, supported by our team every step of the way.

We make the transition to private home care smooth, reassuring, and rewarding.

Trust, Respect, and Professionalism at the Core of Our Service

We treat every client with the respect, kindness, and integrity they deserve. Our team is not just about providing care—we’re about building trust, fostering independence, and ensuring our clients continue to live rich, fulfilling lives at home.

When you choose our private carers Croydon, you're choosing a team that prioritises your health, happiness, and safety above all else.

[byldarticle]

Elevating Performance Through Leadership Development

A quality leadership development initiative is no longer an amenity for businesses — it's a strategic necessity. As businesses struggle with complex issues, change with emerging technologies, and adjust to changing employee expectations, leadership is the catalyst in driving the business towards growth. The emphasis has moved beyond mere filling management positions to creating visionary leaders who influence performance and generate innovation.

In this changing environment, Corporate Learning Solutions for Enterprises are arising to form future leaders. These solutions include not only skills training but also knowledge of behaviour, paths of continuous learning, and business goal alignment. Combined with the use of technology such as behavioural assessment tests, these solutions become more powerful, giving individualised development that is tailored to organisational requirements and individual patterns of growth.

Read More - Unlocking Potential Through Digital Learning and Growth

The Importance of Leadership Development Programs

Leadership development isn't training. It's transformation. The most effective programs emphasize building values, strategic thinking, decision-making enhancement, and emotional quotient. Companies that make investments in such integrated development programs in an aggressive business environment perform better compared to others.

Effective leadership development program also leads to improved employee engagement, improved talent retention, and improved team performance. These programs detect high-potential employees early, keep developing them regularly, and prepare them for multi-dimensional leadership assignments in the long term.

Furthermore, through internal mobility, leadership development creates a sense of belongingness and advancement. Employees with a visible track towards leadership will likely remain, contribute positively, and remain committed to responsibilities.

How Corporate Learning Solutions Enable Companies

Companies have special challenges scaling leadership training. The old, one-size-fits-all model is insufficient to meet the varied needs of companies today. That's where corporate learning solutions for companies come in.

These solutions will most probably be modular, scalable, and flexible. They integrate online learning platforms, on-site workshops, peer coaching, and leadership development to provide a multi-faceted experience. In addition, they will most probably be designed with direct linkage to business results, like enhanced productivity, enhanced innovation, or speeding up change management.

Online communities, for example, enable workers to progress at their own convenience and monitor their advancement. Virtual simulation and case studies in real life are more and more used in an attempt to offer experiential leadership. Integrating learning into daily business processes ensures learning is continuous and uninterrupted by firms.

Learning solutions focus even more intensely on soft skills such as communication, empathy, conflict resolution, and flexibility — all of them underpinning the leadership of today's hybrid and diverse workforces.

Read More - Leadership Development Program: The Core of Corporate Learning

Application of Behavioural Assessment Tests in the creation of Leadership

No two people are alike. Everyone has varying experiences, personality characteristics, and abilities. Therefore, behavioral testing plays an important role in shaping a leader. With the help of these tests, one becomes familiar with an individual more as an individual based on his strengths, areas where he is weak, decision-making ability, and people management skills.

Used early in the leadership pipeline, behavioral tests enable firms to determine who can excel at high-risk, strategic positions. They also enable on-target development, with each attendee receiving training customized to their requirements and learning style.

Assessments can be applied at different points in the leadership path — from promotion and hiring to succession planning and performance reviews. They are a launching point for coaching conversations, assist in clarifying development objectives, and offer a quantifiable framework to measure progress.

Most significantly, perhaps, behavioral assessment tests promote self-awareness. Leaders who see how their behavior affects others are better equipped to lead with empathy, authenticity, and effectiveness.

Synergizing These Tools for Maximum Impact

Value is created when corporate learning solutions, leadership development programs, and behavior assessments are used synergistically. A leadership development program can start with a behavioral assessment to identify the strengths already present. Based on the output, a tailored learning path is created using corporate learning tools. Ongoing feedback and support during the process reinforce learning and monitor progress.

This alignment guarantees that leadership development is a process, not an event. The finest programs do not train, but they instill learning in the culture, facilitate peer learning, and track results at each step.

For example, a high-potential employee who was uncovered by measurement would be enrolled in six months of blended-learning. That can encompass online module training in emotional intelligence, executive leader shadowing, strategy workshops, and ongoing coaching. The employee is re-tested at the conclusion to measure improvement and promotion readiness.

Read More - From Talent to Trailblazer: Why the Best Corporate Training Programs Drive Leadership Success

Why Enterprises Must Act Now

Leadership issues aren't tomorrow's — they're today's. Whether it's leading in a post-pandemic world, leading global teams, or navigating digital transformation, leaders are calling the shots. Organizations that wait to invest in leadership development will be playing catch-up with their competitors.

The population shift in the work environment also renders it a reason for concern. When the elderly leaders exit, the companies must have the next generation of managers in place. Leadership growth, with the backing of corporate education and behavioral measurements, helps the transition to be seamless and long-lasting.

Besides, the needs of employees have also changed. People today want purpose, autonomy, and development. Organizations that provide open leadership opportunities and context-based learning experiences attract better talent and keep them longer.

Conclusion

A strong leadership program, coupled with massive corporate learning solutions for Enterprises and research-based behavior testing, is the backbone of sustained business success. These instruments do not just make people ready to fill managerial positions — they build creative, versatile, and extremely robust leaders.

By investing in leadership from within, organizations create a pool of talent that will drive through change, innovate, and drive performance. It's not box-ticking; it's creating a culture where leadership is shared responsibility. And in doing so, organizations set themselves up to win — not tomorrow, but long into the future.

[crasypup87]

Week 2

During week 2 I began my journey in Gdevelop.

I learned how to create a new project - specifically a platformer which will help in the development of Run, Chicken, RUN!

I also learned how to manage and rename scenes to keep them organised, add objects and assign models and behaviours - including the creation of a character sprite and platforms.

Finally, I incorporated actions to make the camera centre on the Main Character during platforming.

All of these factors, especially the use of actions, will be super helpful and the key factors for developing my game.

It's pretty basic currently and is only the workshop material, but the project is looking good