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On June 6th, we marked a significant milestone: 80 years since the D-Day landings. This momentous day in 1944 saw the Allied forces embark on one of the most daring and pivotal operations of World War II, forever altering the course of history. Known as Operation Overlord, the D-Day invasion was a massive military effort that saw over 156,000 American, British, and Canadian forces landing on five beaches along the heavily fortified coast of Normandy, France. D-Day: A Turning Point in World War II The D-Day landings were meticulously planned and involved extensive coordination and deception strategies to mislead the Axis powers about the actual invasion site. The beaches, codenamed Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword, were stormed under intense enemy fire. Despite the formidable German defences, the Allied forces managed to secure a foothold, which became the springboard for the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The success of D-Day was not only a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers but also to the strategic planning and resilience of the Allied command. The operation demonstrated the power of unity and determination, qualities that were echoed in the powerful propaganda campaigns that supported the war effort back home. The Art and Purpose of WWII Posters During World War II, posters were an essential tool for mobilizing public support, conveying critical messages, and boosting morale. These posters were designed to address various aspects of the war effort, including recruitment, financial support through war bonds, conservation of resources, and maintaining secrecy to prevent espionage. Recruitment Posters Example: "Uncle Sam Wants You" Design and Appeal: This iconic poster features Uncle Sam pointing directly at the viewer with the slogan "I Want You for U.S. Army." The use of patriotic colours and the familiar figure of Uncle Sam created an immediate connection to national pride and duty. Effectiveness: The poster significantly boosted enlistment numbers. The compelling image and direct appeal resonated strongly with young men, becoming a symbol of national duty. War Bond Posters Example: "Buy War Bonds" (USA) Design and Appeal: These posters often depicted soldiers in battle, patriotic symbols, and families at home with slogans like "Buy War Bonds" and "Save Freedom." The emotional and patriotic appeal framed the purchase of bonds as a direct contribution to the war effort. Effectiveness: The U.S. government raised over $185 billion through bonds. Specific poster campaigns correlated with spikes in sales, indicating their effectiveness in motivating public participation. Conservation Posters Example: "Dig for Victory" (UK) Design and Appeal: This British poster showed citizens gardening with the slogan "Dig for Victory," encouraging self-sufficiency. The practical and patriotic appeal linked personal gardening efforts to national survival. Effectiveness: Successfully motivated the public to grow their own food, significantly boosting domestic production and alleviating food shortages. Women's Roles Posters Example: "Join the Wrens" (UK) Design and Appeal: Showing women in the Women’s Royal Naval Service with the slogan "Join the Wrens and Free a Man to Fight," this poster emphasized the support role of women. Effectiveness: Successfully recruited many women into the WRNS, providing essential support to the Royal Navy and contributing to long-term changes in military policy and gender roles. Anti-Spying and Secrecy Posters Example: "Careless Talk Costs Lives" (UK) Design and Appeal: Depicting enemy ears or eyes listening to conversations with the slogan "Careless Talk Costs Lives," this poster highlighted the dangers of unguarded speech. Effectiveness: Heightened public vigilance about discussing sensitive information, contributing to a decrease in security breaches and making the slogan a constant reminder of the importance of secrecy. As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, it's essential to remember the multifaceted efforts that contributed to the Allied victory in World War II. The powerful and strategic use of posters played a crucial role in mobilizing public support, influencing behaviour, and boosting morale. These posters were not just pieces of art; they were tools of war that galvanized entire populations to contribute to the war effort in myriad ways. Their effectiveness is evident in the increased enlistments, financial contributions, and changes in public behaviour that they inspired. The legacy of these posters continues to remind us of the power of visual communication and the enduring impact of collective action in times of crisis. All Images taken from Free Classic Images .com.

Recently, I wrote an article that talked about some forgotten mascots, as well as a very bizarre one (depending on which country you’re from). That article can be found here. Today, I want to highlight some characters you might remember, which were created by one company only to be remembered for another, as well as some that were once dropped, but which were revived almost instantly. Flash in the pan Flat Eric Originally a puppet created by Quentin Dupieux (Mr. Oizo), called Stephane, Flat Eric was redesigned by Janet Knechtel while she worked for Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. It was most famous for a small series of adverts for Levi Jeans in 1999. The puppet is still used by the original creator, Mr. Oizo. Bouncing between brands Monkey Sometimes called the PG Tips’ Monkey, this slightly cowardly little scamp appeared originally with ‘Al’ (played by Johnny Vegas), on the now-defunct ITV Digital. Because Monkey was owned by advertising agency Mother, and not ITV Digital, it was allowed to appear in other programmes and media and played a part in 2001’s Comic Relief and 2002’s BRIT awards. It wasn’t until 2007 that Monkey appeared in adverts for PG Tips and was rebranded as ‘The PG Tips’ Monkey’. Lose us, lose profit Tetley Tea Folk The Tetley Tea folk were originally created by Canadian copywriter John McGill Lewis, with help from Peter Rigby and Wyatt Cattaneo Studios, back in 1973. Tetley’s fictional tea team grew substantially over the years, with several characters being added over time. Tetley put the Tea Folk on lots of their products and associated merchandise, with some becoming highly collectable items, selling for as much as £200 on second-hand markets. They coined three catchphrases during their run, with ‘That’s Better, That’s Tetley’ being one of the most famous. They were retired by Tetley in 2001 as the brand concentrated on a younger market with a more modern advertising campaign. By July 2002, however, the company’s sales had slumped by 14%, which they stated was down to the axing of the Tetley Tea Folk. As a result, they made a comeback in 2010 and have appeared on and off TV for the brand ever since. Mascots can make a brand come alive; however, as shown above, they can sometimes become bigger than the brand they’re representing.

Targeted marketing has long been the bedrock of successful advertising campaigns. By identifying and reaching out to a specific audience segment, companies can tailor their messages, products, and promotions to resonate deeply with the intended consumers. This approach typically ensures higher engagement, better conversion rates, and more efficient use of marketing resources. However, there are notable instances where products or brands have defied conventional wisdom, achieved unexpected success, and challenged the very notion of targeted marketing. The Bedrock of Targeted Marketing Traditional marketing wisdom emphasizes the importance of targeting. By understanding the demographics, psychographics, and behavioural patterns of their target audience, companies can create highly personalized and relevant campaigns. This strategic focus not only helps in engaging the right audience but also optimizes the marketing spend. Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign One of the most iconic examples of successful targeted marketing is Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign. Launched in 1988, this campaign was meticulously designed to inspire athletes and fitness enthusiasts across the globe. Nike’s ads featured a diverse array of athletes, from professional sports stars to everyday people, embodying the spirit of perseverance and determination. Nike’s strategy was clear: they aimed to position their brand as synonymous with athletic excellence and personal achievement. The “Just Do It” slogan was a call to action, urging people to push their limits and embrace an active lifestyle. This targeted approach resonated deeply with Nike’s core audience, fostering brand loyalty and driving substantial growth. The campaign not only boosted sales but also cemented Nike’s place as a leading brand in the sportswear industry. When Targeting Misses the Mark: The Power of Going Against the Grain While targeted marketing has proven its efficacy time and again, there are remarkable cases where success came from defying the established norms. These outliers demonstrate that sometimes, going against the grain can yield astonishing results. Rory Sutherland’s Red Bull Analogy Rory Sutherland, a prominent advertising executive, famously highlighted the unexpected success of Red Bull to illustrate this point. He stated, “If someone had said they were going to create a rival for Coca-Cola that tasted awful and came in a smaller can but was twice the price, you would have laughed at them. But someone did. It’s called Red Bull, and it made its founder a multi-billionaire.” Red Bull’s meteoric rise defied traditional market expectations. Despite its unconventional taste, higher price point, and smaller packaging, Red Bull created a new category—energy drinks—and dominated it. YouTube: An Unplanned Pivot YouTube is another quintessential example of a product finding success outside its original targeted marketing strategy. Launched in 2005, YouTube was initially conceived as a dating site where users could upload videos introducing themselves. This idea failed to gain traction, and the platform did not attract the intended audience. However, users began uploading a wide variety of content, from funny videos to tutorials and personal vlogs. Recognizing this organic shift, YouTube’s founders pivoted, embracing the broader appeal of a general video-sharing platform. This unexpected success story underscores the power of adaptability and the importance of listening to user behaviour rather than rigidly sticking to an initial target audience. The Risks and Rewards of Defying Traditional Marketing While these examples illustrate the potential rewards of going against targeted marketing, it’s important to acknowledge the inherent risks. Success stories like Red Bull and YouTube are rare and often involve a combination of innovation, timing, and a bit of luck. For every Red Bull or YouTube, there are countless other products that failed because they did not resonate with any audience. Defying conventional marketing wisdom can lead to groundbreaking success, but it requires a deep understanding of market dynamics, a willingness to take significant risks, and the flexibility to adapt to unexpected opportunities. Brands considering such a strategy should be prepared for potential setbacks and should continuously monitor market responses to pivot as needed. Targeted marketing remains a powerful tool for reaching the right audience and achieving business goals. It provides a clear, efficient path to engagement and conversion. However, as the stories of Red Bull and YouTube demonstrate, sometimes success lies in the unexpected and the unconventional. While going against the grain can lead to extraordinary breakthroughs, it is a high-risk, high-reward strategy that demands careful consideration and agile execution. As marketers navigate the ever-evolving landscape, the challenge is to balance the proven efficacy of targeted marketing with the boldness to explore new, uncharted territories.

As top temperatures in the UK have now reached 40 Celsius, some people are calling for new legislation regarding working in extreme heat. ‘I like it hot, but I don’t like it this hot’ will be a phrase we will no doubt hear multiple times this summer, with the ridiculous temperatures the UK is now forced to deal with—but at what point does the weather become too much? Business owners were asking themselves that question as they made the decision on whether they and their teams should work at home, or not, during last week’s record-breaking heatwave. No doubt some people will say it’s only hot weather, but I’m inclined to disagree with this. This isn’t just hot weather; we are actually living through a national emergency. The temperature doesn’t just directly affect us as people— hot weather threatens the infrastructure that helps us get to work. Train tracks can buckle due to the heat, which will affect people’s commute. Last week, crews were on standby to lay sand down in some parts of the country where there were concerns the road could melt away. On Tuesday 19 July 2022 most of the east coast mainline was closed, which meant there were no trains from York to London. Many people, therefore, couldn’t get to work on Tuesday or attend meetings and events in London. Government guidance is desperately needed. There needs to be a framework, guidelines…something for business owners, and even headteachers, to refer to, so that they can effectively make a decision on whether it’s safe for employees or students to come into work/school. Such legislation on extreme temperatures, at the rate we’re going, will be something used quite often, as the UK will see more 40+ Celsius temperatures, due to climate change. At what point should employees not come into work? At what point is it not safe to send a child into school? There is no definitive answer for this nor is there, currently, any real guidance to help. Do we all need to suck it up and just get on with it? Dominic Raab, the Deputy Prime Minister, would agree with this. He said, ‘We ought to enjoy the sunshine, and actually, we ought to be resilient enough through some of the pressures it will place.’ Seems somewhat irresponsible of him to say that when you consider the national warnings that were given out. Some business owners are suggesting it’s better for employees to come into the workplace, because they’re more likely to be air-conditioned. I would agree with this if most people could actually get to work, but many won’t, due to public transport being cancelled—thanks to buckled train lines and melting roads. I recently spoke about how the UK simply isn’t built for temperatures this hot, with the humidity and the fact our infrastructure is built to be more resilient against colder weather. We don’t have the means to effectively deal with extreme heat. 40+ Celsius is currently rare, but temperatures of 30+ Celsius are now an annual occurrence. Despite this, our buildings are still designed to be great at keeping warmth in, not keeping cool, which only makes matters worse during a heatwave. This isn’t a complaint, more a fact of life. We can’t get rid of the insulation, as we also experience cold winters. We need appropriate legislation and guidance to refer to—so that business owners can make an effective decision that’s best for the needs of their company in a heatwave. In my opinion, it should be a case of ‘if you can get to work in a safe manner that isn’t putting anyone at risk’ then you should do so. The point on offices being airconditioned is a good one; it would certainly be more comfortable being at work than at home during periods of extreme heat. That being said, if you can’t get to work because trains are cancelled, for example, then it should also be acceptable to work from home.

Well I’ve reviewed the majority of the songs from this years Eurovision, which just leaves the last 13 songs to be reviewed. So lets not waste anymore time and get right into the last 13 songs left from this years final. Norway “Ulveham” Gåte Despite some ups and downs, Norway remains a beloved and respected competitor on the Eurovision stage. Known for its resilience and diverse musical entries, Norway continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of contemporary and culturally rich performances. This year they were represented by Gåte, a band known for blending Norwegian folk music with elements of metal and electronica, and they bring that distinctive style to "Ulveham". Gåte's performance was a visual spectacle utilising powerful, almost mythical quality, vibes which made it stand out from a lot of the other songs. But despite that the song only finished 16th, this in my opinion is an international tragedy and one that we all should be ashamed of. The unique blend of folk traditions and contemporary rock, combined with the intense staging, are all aspects of what actually makes Eurovision great. This song deserved to break into the top 10. Italy “La Noia” Angelina Mango Italy this year were represented by “La Noia” by Angelina Mango. Italy have had a long history in Eurovision and have won it 3 previous times, there most recent win being in 2021 but was this going to be another year of Italian dominance? La Noia mixes cumbia rhythms with pop elements, creating a unique and catchy vibe that's hard to resist​. Angelina Mango’s performance is full of energy and charisma, her vocal delivery is both powerful and authentic, bringing a relatable touch to the song. The lyrics talk about the mundane aspects of life and existential boredom, but the upbeat music keeps it engaging and fun. But on top of that the stage performance was very eye-catching and engaging. With a psychedelic forest theme, complete with elaborate graphics and costumes, and a throne that rises from the stage. This was easily one of the best songs of this year's Eurovision, and if it wasn't for tougher competition it probably would have ranked higher, overall it finished 7th and I feel like this is the perfect place for it to sit. Serbia “Ramonda” by Teya Dora Serbia has made a significant impact on the Eurovision Song Contest since its debut in 2007. Known for its powerful ballads, diverse musical entries, and cultural richness, Serbia consistently delivers memorable and high-quality performances. This year was no exception with another powerful ballad from Teya Dora with “Ramonda”. The song is a beautiful ballad that dives deep into themes of solitude, resilience, and hope. The lilac ramonda, which is a recurring motif in the song, symbolises endurance and rebirth as well as being a significant flower in Serbian culture. Teya Dora's performance is really something special. Her voice carries so much emotion and sincerity, which makes the song incredibly moving. The staging for "Ramonda" also enhances its impact. With subtle yet effective elements like flower motifs, the visuals complement the song’s melancholic yet hopeful message perfectly. It’s not overly flashy, which works well with the song’s introspective nature. This song was one of my favourites from this years Eurovision, its just a shame that theres another 10 songs that I feel deserve top 10 more than it, however I would like to say it should have challenged for one of those spots rather than being relegated to a 17th place finish. Finland “No Rules!” Windows95man Finland has made a notable impact on the Eurovision Song Contest with its diverse musical entries and memorable performances. Highlighted by Lordi’s groundbreaking victory in 2006 with "Hard Rock Hallelujah" and Käärijä’s innovative "Cha Cha Cha" in 2023, Finland is known for its ability to surprise and captivate audiences. This year their song was “No Rules!” by Windows95man and it's definitely one of the more unique songs in the competition. The song is a high-energy Europop anthem that really stands out for its infectious rhythm and playful, over-the-top presentation but whilst it does stand out for all of these reasons, they are all reasons as to why the song does feel a little cheesy even for Eurovision. Overall, "No Rules!" is a mixed bag and it finished 19th in the competition, again I feel like around this spot is about right. Portugal "Grito" Iolanda Portugal has had a rich and evolving history in the Eurovision Song Contest, marked by its commitment to cultural authenticity and distinctive musical entries. Known for its beautiful melodies and emotive performances, Portugal has made a significant impact on the contest. This trend continued with this year’s entry. “Grito” by Iolanda, translates to "Shout," is a beautiful fusion of pop, R&B, and traditional Portuguese Fado influences. Iolanda's vocal performance is incredibly powerful. From the haunting acapella opening to the huge note at the end, her voice fills every corner of the arena. The staging is equally impressive, featuring five dancers in white with covered faces, adding a contemporary and artistic touch that perfectly complements the song's emotional depth. The lyrics of "Grito" are all about self-empowerment, healing, and the pursuit of dreams. It's an inspiring message that resonates deeply, celebrating the indomitable human spirit and the journey to overcome adversity​ and is by far one of my favourites of this year, overall it finished 10th and I’m going to say it definitely earned that top 10 finish. Armenia “Jako” Ladaniva ​Performed entirely in Armenian, “Jako” features a vibrant mix of Armenian folk music with global influences like Balkan melodies, jazz, reggae, and maloya. The performance is just as lively as the song itself. The staging is colourful and dynamic, featuring Armenian motifs and a fun dance routine. Lead singer Jaklin Baghdasaryan sings about her experiences growing up and being told to behave a certain way. Instead of conforming, she embraces her true, unapologetic self, and the song becomes a call to dance and live freely. The song is very catchy, and it managed to finish 8th in the actual final. I’m not sure if I would place it in the top ten but it was definitely one of the standout performers of this year. Cyprus “Liar” Silia Kapsis Cyprus is known for its vibrant performances and catchy pop songs. With a strong track record of qualifying for the finals and a commitment to showcasing both contemporary and culturally rich music, Cyprus continues to be a dynamic and beloved participant in Eurovision, bringing fresh and memorable performances to the stage each year. This year they were represented by 17 year old Silia Kapsis. "Liar" combines a modern pop sound with a catchy beat that's hard to get out of your head. Silia's performance is full of energy, and she really brings the song to life on stage. "Liar" is a strong entry for Cyprus, blending contemporary pop with a meaningful message and a compelling performance. It finished 15th overall and whilst I would like to rank it a little higher I don’t think it’s good enough to break into the top 10. Switzerland “The Code” Nemo Switzerland won this years Eurovision with this song by Nemo. “The Code” became the first victorious song for the Swiss since 1988 and the first winning song ever to have been sung by an openly non-binary person. The song is a complex blend of genres, combining elements of rap, opera, pop, and drum and bass, which has been praised for its originality and innovation. Nemo, known for their powerful stage presence and vocal versatility, delivers a performance that includes vocal trills, belts, and falsetto notes, making "The Code" a memorable and dynamic entry. This song was easily in my top 3 songs from this years Eurovision. I personally would have had Europapa win ahead of it, but unfortunately circumstances said otherwise. Slovenia “Veronika” Raiven Slovenia were represented this year by Raiven with the song “Veronika”. The track is inspired by the historical figure Veronika Deseniška, a countess from the 15th century who faced tragic accusations of witchcraft. But other than, I mostly forgot about this song. Which is unfortunate as it did feel as though Slovenia were trying to do something unique with this entry. It just unfortunately didnt work out this time. Overall it finished 23rd, I probably would have had it rank lower. Croatia “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” Baby Lasagna Croatia really struck it big with this song, it's just a shame that it happened to be submitted when the competition this year was so strong. The alt rock “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” had one of the catchiest choruses of this year’s Eurovision. Baby Lasagna has put together a performance that’s visually stunning and full of energy. The music itself is vibrant and lively, blending traditional Croatian sounds with a modern twist. This fusion creates an infectious rhythm that makes you want to dance. Baby Lasagna’s vocal delivery adds to the song's charm, bringing a playful and energetic vibe that perfectly matches the upbeat tempo of the music. This was by far my 2nd favourite song of the entire competition and it did finish 2nd overall in the actual final so I guess we agree on something? Georgia “Firefighter” Nutsa Buzaladze This year Georgia were represented by Nutsa and it paid off for them as they broke their streak of failing to qualify for the final. However that's pretty much as far as the achievements of this song go, its a fine song and Nutsa has great vocals but it wasn’t anything special. I don’t really have much more to say about it which probably isnt a great thing. It finished 21st, I think it could have finished further down and no one would’ve been upset. France “Mon Amour” Slimane France's entry for Eurovision 2024, "Mon Amour" by Slimane, is a standout ballad that has captivated audiences and critics alike with its profound emotional depth and powerful vocal delivery. From the very first note, "Mon Amour" grips listeners with its intricate melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song's structure, beginning softly and building to a dramatic crescendo, allows Slimane to showcase his vocal prowess and emotional expressiveness. A very memorable moment is when Slimane walks away from the microphone as the music cuts out, and then continues to sing whilst standing away from the microphone as his voice fills the arena. This song and performance are absolutely beautiful and was one of my favourites of the entire show. It’s definitely in the top 5 for me this year, which it managed to do as it finished 4th overall. Austria “We Will Rave” Kaleen Kaleen, whose real name is Marie-Sophie Kreissl, is representing Austria with a techno-pop anthem that takes a nostalgic dive into 90s Eurodance. The song, "We Will Rave," is all about finding joy and unity in the midst of darkness, using dance as a way to heal and connect. However there were quite a few other retro inspired entries this year, all of which I think might have been a little bit better than this song. Or maybe it’s just fatigue from having to sit through all of the songs of this years Eurovision. Either way, wasn’t a huge fan of this one. It finished 24th which I think is about right for this song. And thats that, I’ve finally reviewed all of the songs from this years Eurovision. I’m sure I’ve annoyed some people with my opinions but hey thats what makes music and arts good, that we can all take away different meanings and interpretations from them. If I’ve said something that you disagree with then just let us know. If you’ve not checked out any of the other parts then I recommend you do. Either way I’m looking forward to next years Eurovision in the heart of the alps in Switzerland!

I previously went and reviewed the songs that did not make it through to this years Eurovision final, there were a few hidden gems and songs that definitely deserved their flowers and a spot in the final. But now’s the time to go ahead and review every performance from this year's Eurovision final, as there are 26 songs this article will go over the first 13 songs from this year's final, starting off with hosts Sweden! Sweden “Unforgettable” Marcus & Martinus Sweden has been a powerhouse in Eurovision for quite some time now having the joint most wins along with Ireland. Eurovision is where many Swedish acts have managed to break into the mainstream world of music, such as ABBA, and so every Swedish act almost immediately has this incredibly high expectation of producing a good track and performance. So surely this year they’d be able to do the same right? I mean with a song called “Unforgettable” surely no one is going to forget that one! Except, I’ll be honest, this might be the most forgettable song out of all the songs performed at this years final. The song is an electronic pop song and featured one of the most generic beats for a song and yet it finished 9th, which I get the staging was kind of fun to watch but I don't think the song was special enough to warrant a 9th place finish. If Sweden were not hosting, I don’t think this would have qualified ahead of some of the songs from the semi final. Definitely should have been a bottom 5 finish. Ukraine "Teresa & Maria" Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil Next up is Ukraine. Ukraine have had a series of very strong performances in recent years, and a lot in general since they joined back in 2003, usually concocting a unique blend of performances, cultural elements, and contemporary music. And this year was no different with “Teresa & Maria” a song about hope inspired by Albanian Roman Catholic saint Mother Teresa and the Virgin Mary, the song was written by Alyona, Heil, Anton Chilibi, and Ivan Klymenko. I personally really enjoyed this song, Ukraine always has strong entries into eurovision and this years was just another in a long list of bangers. Easily one of my favourites from the entire show but I probably would not have ranked it as the 3rd best from the night, for me it would sit around 5th/6th. Germany “Always on The Run” Isaak Germany has had a rough relationship with Eurovision in recent years, finishing near last place in the last 4 contests. But could this year break the streak of poor performances this year? Well it did! The song managed to finish 12th overall a much needed improvement for Germany over their last few entries, however I do think this is a bit unearned. Whilst its great that Germany have managed to finally produce an entry that can break above dead last or 2nd to last, positions normally reserved for the UK and Germany, I don’t think this song was unique enough to warrant that drastic rise. The song is a lot like if you somehow made Lewis Capaldi more boring and German. A 12th place finish is probably a little high for this type of entry especially when Eurovision is known for its eccentricity and I don’t know if this song truly is that much better than their previous entries in previous years. I feel a finish around 20th would have been an improvement and more accurate as to what the song was. Luxembourg “Fighter” by Tali Luxembourg haven’t been in a Eurovision for over 30 years, with this year being the first time they’ve performed since 1993. Despite its absence from recent contests, Luxembourg's legacy in Eurovision remains influential, and its winning entries are still celebrated. So expectations were high for this former powerhouse of the competition. And I think it was a strong re-entry into the competition with the song “Fighter”. The song has a catchy beat and honestly is very Eurovision, for those who regularly watch the competition you’ll know what i mean. Singing in both English and French, Tali’s performance involved her dancing with a group of male dancers whilst a CGI Leopard roared behind her, the whole thing was very camp and what we love about this yearly competition. The song finished 13th on the night, and I feel like that’s fair however this does mean it finished below Germany somehow. Netherlands “Europapa” Joost Klien Going into the competition, this was the favourite to win by almost everyone. Joost Klien had made the most Eurovision-Europop song that he possibly could have made and on top of that, it was fun to listen to. The song had gone viral on social media platform TikTok with many people using the sound all across Europe, peaking at number 1 in the Netherlands. This wasn’t just a song that was loved for the Eurovision moment but also by its home-country. Europapa also had a deeper meaning behind it as Joost had used his own personal experiences after the tragic passing of his parents when he was young. The song was massively loved by fans, during the live performance at the Semi Final the entire crowd was singing and clapping along. But hours before the competition took place, Joost was disqualified from the competition after an alleged incident occurred backstage. This backstage incident occurred moments after Joost had called out the Israeli entrant during a press conference leading many to speculate that the 2 events might be linked. Whatever your opinion on that matter, I think that this song is the true winner of the entire competition. Europapa is my number 1. The song is Eurovision. Israel “Hurricane” Eden Golan Another entry with controversy this year, with many fans protesting and boycotting the show simply because they were allowed to perform. And whilst there are a lot of questions in regards to that, for the purpose of this article I am only going to focus on the song, the singer, and the performance. Whilst Eurovision is often entwined with politics, whether intentionally or not, I will refrain from doing so. Anyway the song itself, the song is a sort of generic power ballad, reminiscent of the series of former Disney stars doing power ballads in the early 10s to try and break from their Disney molde. The song when only looking at public voting finished 2nd, which honestly is wild that it got that many votes. Is it a bad song? No. Is it a good song? It’s alright. Is it a good Eurovision song? Also no. The song doesn't stand out for anything other than the politics behind the scenes. The song deserved to finish somewhere in the mid table, I’m going with 12th. Lithuania “Luktelk” Silvester Belt Lithuania has been a consistent and ambitious participant in the Eurovision Song Contest since its debut in 1994. Although it has yet to secure a win, the country has made a significant impact with several memorable performances and strong entries. And they had another memorable performance this year from Silvester Belt. This year's song is an interesting mix of 90s techno-pop and modern elements. On one hand, the song has a catchy rhythm and a memorable hook that some people find appealing. It brings a nostalgic feel with its retro influences, which might resonate with fans of that era. The lyrics delve into themes of time and reflection, adding a bit of depth to the otherwise danceable track​. However, "Luktelk" struggled to stand out in a competitive Eurovision lineup. This year features several other entries with similar 90s-inspired sounds, such as Finland's Windows95Man and Austria’s Kaleen with "We Will Rave." Overall it finished in 14th place, and I feel this is about right for the song. I like it but it wasn’t anything special or uniquely Eurovision. Spain “Zorra” Nebulossa Spain has had a significant and enduring presence in the Eurovision Song Contest, being one of the big 5 nations mean they don’t need to compete in the semi finals to qualify for the final. This years entry tries to reclaim the term "zorra," which translates to "slut" or "bitch," aiming to make a strong feminist statement. A commendable goal for sure, but outside of the meaning of the song it is an electro-pop track that feels somewhat generic. It doesn’t really stand out in the lineup, especially with other strong entries this year. The melody and production are decent but nothing groundbreaking. For a song that's supposed to be so bold and defiant, it doesn't bring anything particularly new or exciting to the table. And this song finished 22nd overall, which honestly I agree with. It definitely shouldn’t have finished any higher. Estonia"(Nendest) narkootikumidest ei tea me (küll) midagi" 5miinust and Puuluup Estonia has made a significant impact on the Eurovision Song Contest with its diverse and high-quality entries. The country achieved a historic victory in 2001 with "Everybody" but did this years entry live up to that former glory? This year's song blends hip-hop and modern folk, which gives it a unique sound. 5miinust brings their energetic hip-hop vibes, while Puuluup adds a touch of Estonian tradition with the talharpa, a traditional bowed harp. This mix has made the song stand out, especially since it's the first Estonian-language entry in Eurovision since 2013​. However, the song does have a very niche feel to it, which doesn't really make it very accessible to many of those across Europe. I do have to give Estonia credit for the bold entry but I think it ended up placing around where it should have at 20th, maybe a couple places higher if I’m feeling nice. Ireland “Doomsday Blue” Bambie Thug Ireland actually tied for the most amount of Eurovision wins along with Sweden, but despite that they had not qualified for a Eurovision final since 2018. Until they chose Doomsday Blue by Bambie Thug to represent them this year. The song, described as "Ouija-pop," features dark, haunting lyrics and a distinctive stage. Taking elements from alternative rock, pop and jazz, Doomsday Blue is a very unique entry from the former Eurovision Powerhouse and its clear to see why this is the song that has brought them back into the finals of the competition. Bambie Thug's performance was eerie and featured spellbinding qualities, creating a memorable Eurovision moment that people will be talking about for years to come. I personally really enjoyed this song and its performance, it definitely stood out from the crowd. The song finished at a respectable 6th place, but for me this is a top 5 song from Eurovision this year. Latvia “Hollow” Dons Latvia has made a significant mark on the Eurovision Song Contest with its early victory and continued diverse contributions but would “Hollow” by Don step up to that previous legacy? "Hollow" is a lyrical ballad with influences of soft rock, starting off with a simple piano arrangement and building up to a more orchestral feel. The chorus is particularly impactful, with Dons singing about the hollowness of superficial advice and the importance of staying true to oneself. His voice has a raw, gritty texture that adds a lot of emotion to the song, which is very reminiscent of Rag’n’Bone Man and Hozier. But much like other songs on this list, it's a decent song, just not a Eurovision song. Which is probably why it’s not going to get a huge ranking from me but also why it didn’t place higher than 16th which is exactly where it should sit, middle of the table. Greece “Zari” Marina Satti Greece’s entry this year is definitely one of the more unique ones. The song mixes traditional Greek music with modern and ethnographic elements, creating a really engaging and unpredictable experience​. It starts with these ethnic-sounding drums and Marina's powerful vocals, which immediately draw you in. Then, it unexpectedly shifts into more modern, hip-hop-inspired segments, which keeps the song feeling fresh and dynamic throughout​. Some people have said that the shift is too jarring, but personally I like the shift and it only helps promote more traditional music getting a much deserved spotlight, which is one of the best parts about Eurovision. This me is easily a top 10 song, it managed to finish 11th so it’s that far off my opinion. United Kingdom “Dizzy” Olly Alexander This year our entry was from the former lead singer of Years & Years, Olly Alexander, who previously had the number 1 hit King. The UK has had a mixed relationship with Eurovision, we’ve had a tendency to send acts that either don’t push the boundaries or aren’t fit for Eurovision. The one time we did take it seriously and sent Sam Ryder, we missed out on the number 1 finish to Ukraine who had just been invaded by Russia. This years entrant however I don't think it lives up to the highs of Sam Ryder’s entry. Whilst it is better than last years, it’s still not my favourite performance from this years Eurovision. First off, the song feels like it's trying too hard to capture that nostalgic 90s dance vibe but ends up sounding a bit dated. It lacks the big, memorable chorus that could make it a standout track. Olly Alexander is a great performer, no doubt about that. He’s got a lot of stage presence and experience from his Years & Years days. But even his performance was not enough to elevate a song that feels somewhat flat and repetitive. "Dizzy" has some fun elements, it doesn't seem to have the emotional punch or memorable hook that you need to really make a splash at Eurovision. Overall the song finished 18th which is an improvement from last year, and is around where I would have placed it anyway.

Humanity's bond with alcohol is as old as civilization itself. It's not just about enjoying a good drink; it's about how these beverages have woven themselves into the fabric of our societies, shaped our economies, and even played a part in our religious and cultural rituals. From ancient China’s rice wine to the vineyards of the Mediterranean, alcohol has been both a pleasure and a pivotal part of life across the globe. Alcohol's Ancient Roots and Sacred Sips Let's travel back in time to around 7000 BC in Jiahu, Northern China, where archaeologists found the earliest known alcoholic drink. This wasn’t just any drink—it was a concoction of fermented rice, honey, and fruit, marking the beginning of our adventures with alcohol. Meanwhile, over in Mesopotamia, the Sumerians weren’t just brewing beer; they were composing hymns to Ninkasi, their goddess of brewing. That's right, beer was literally a matter of divine importance! In Egypt, beer and wine were staples in daily life and religious offerings. The Egyptians didn’t just drink for fun; they believed these drinks were divine gifts, crucial in their medical practices and vital to offer to their gods. From Local Brew to Cultural Exchange As empires expanded, so did their drinks. The Greeks and Romans didn’t just enjoy wine; they perfected it and made it a central part of their trade and social gatherings. Their knowledge of wine-making spread across their trade routes, influencing agricultural practices far and wide. Up north in Scandinavia and the British Isles, the Vikings had their own favourite brew—mead. This honey-based drink wasn't just delicious; it was a symbol of status and community. Today, we're seeing a resurgence of mead in the craft brewing scene, which shows how old flavours can find new fans. Traditional Tipples Going Global Across the ocean in the Americas, indigenous groups were making their own unique beverages like pulque and chicha, crucial for social and religious events. These drinks, once limited to specific regions and peoples, are now gaining global popularity, thanks in part to the modern craft movement that’s keen on exploring ancient recipes and local ingredients. In Africa, palm wine and in Oceania, kava, have similar stories. They are deeply embedded in their communities and ceremonies but are now stepping onto the global stage, marketed as exotic and healthy choices. Today's World of Drinks The global alcohol market today is an eclectic mix of old-world traditions and innovative new techniques. Craft breweries and distilleries worldwide are dabbling with both historic and novel recipes, often drawing inspiration from the past. Global cuisine has also opened doors for traditional drinks like sake, soju, and tequila to sit alongside local brews and wines in eateries everywhere. These traditional drinks still mark celebrations, enhance culinary experiences, and hold ceremonial value. They're not just about the taste; they're about expressing culture, heritage, and community identity. Our ongoing relationship with alcohol is a story of creativity, cultural exchange, and cherished traditions. It highlights how different cultures, despite geographical and temporal divides, can share common threads in their approaches to fermentation and alcohol use. As we continue to explore and appreciate these diverse traditions, the connection between ancient practices and today’s alcohol culture offers a rich reflection of our global heritage.

Rebranding can be a thrilling yet daunting process for any company. Whether it’s tweaking a logo, updating marketing materials, or completely overhauling a brand’s image, the goal is always to stay relevant, modern, and appealing to both current and potential customers. However, it's not always a straightforward journey. The Need for Rebranding Even the most established and successful businesses need to refresh their brands from time to time. Why? Because the market is constantly evolving, and what worked a few years ago might not resonate with today's consumers. Keeping up with trends and technological advancements is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Some companies opt for a complete overhaul, while others prefer small, incremental changes. Coca-Cola is a prime example of a brand that has managed to stay relevant through subtle tweaks over time. Their logo has evolved, yet it retains the classic elements that make it instantly recognizable, proving that sometimes, less is more. Successful Rebranding Examples Apple (1997): When Steve Jobs returned to Apple, he led a significant rebranding effort. The iconic, colourful striped apple logo was transformed into a sleek, monochromatic version. This shift signified a new era of innovation and sophistication, helping to reposition Apple as a leader in the tech industry and paving the way for its resurgence. Starbucks (2011): Starbucks simplified its logo by removing the words "Starbucks" and "Coffee," focusing solely on the iconic siren. This change reflected the brand's expansion beyond coffee into a broader lifestyle brand. The minimalist design reinforced Starbucks' global recognition and adaptability. Google (2015): Google updated its logo to a modern, sans-serif typeface that was more versatile and mobile-friendly. This change represented Google's evolution and its emphasis on digital and mobile platforms. The updated logo maintained the brand's playful and approachable image while enhancing its digital presence. When Rebranding Misses the Mark Rebranding can be risky, and sometimes it misses the mark entirely. This often happens when corporate leaders, disconnected from the brand's core identity, attempt to emulate the success of others without considering their own brand's unique attributes. Tropicana (2009): Tropicana's redesign replaced the iconic orange and straw image with a glass of orange juice, significantly altering the logo. Consumers did not respond well to the new packaging, resulting in a 20% drop in sales within two months. Tropicana quickly reverted to the original design, highlighting the importance of understanding consumer attachment to brand elements. Gap (2010): Gap introduced a new logo that replaced its long-standing blue box with a minimalist design. The backlash from consumers and design critics was swift and severe, leading Gap to revert to its original logo within a week. This incident underscores the risks of drastic changes without thorough consumer research and engagement. Pepsi (2008): Pepsi's rebranding included a new logo and packaging design, which significantly altered the iconic globe symbol and typeface. The redesign was costly and failed to resonate with consumers, leading to confusion and criticism. While Pepsi did not revert to the old design, the update did not achieve the desired impact and required further adjustments. Key Takeaways for Brand Updates Consumer Research: Understanding consumer preferences and attachment to current brand elements is crucial. Engaging with consumers through surveys, focus groups, and feedback can provide valuable insights. Tropicana and Gap's failures highlight the importance of this step. Gradual Evolution vs. Radical Change: Brands like Apple and Google succeeded by making thoughtful, evolutionary changes rather than radical overhauls. This approach can help maintain brand continuity while modernizing its appearance. Clear Communication: Effective communication about the reasons and vision behind a rebrand can help consumers understand and embrace the changes. Starbucks’ successful rebrand was partly due to clear messaging about its broader vision. Flexibility and Adaptability: Successful updates often involve designs that adapt well to various platforms and media, as seen with Google's logo update. Ensuring the new brand elements are versatile and scalable is essential in today's digital landscape. Internal and External Buy-In: Engaging both employees and consumers in the rebranding process can foster acceptance and enthusiasm. A rebrand should reflect the company's values and culture, which requires internal alignment and support. Rebranding, while challenging, can rejuvenate a brand and align it more closely with its current mission and market. The key is to approach it thoughtfully, keeping consumers at the heart of the process and ensuring that the changes genuinely reflect the brand’s evolving identity.

This past weekend saw millions tune in around the world to watch the 2024 Eurovision final hosted in Malmo Sweden. Known for its diverse musical genres, spectacular performances, and the unique opportunity to showcase national cultures, Eurovision captivates millions of viewers worldwide. This year's entries are no exception, featuring everything from pop and rock to folk and opera, each aiming to capture the hearts of both the professional juries and the voting public. But no one has heard the opinion of someone that knows nothing about music, so clearly that is what’s needed! Join us for A Music Idiots Review of Eurovision! 37 Countries competed in this year's Eurovision across the Semi Finals and the Final itself, which means we have 37 songs to review! Iceland “Scared of Heights” By Hera Bjork Starting off with Iceland, they have had a notable presence in the Eurovision Song Contest since their debut in 1986. Though it has yet to win the competition, failing to make it out of the semi-finals this year, was this perhaps a hidden gem among the songs this year? Scared of Heights must be quite fortunate for Hera as the song did not reach the dizzying heights of the semi final scoreboard only receiving 3 points, which arguably is 3 too many. This song certainly is one of the songs of all time, in fact it's so striking in its blandness and lack of uniqueness that we come to expect from Eurovision songs that it unfortunately reminds me of “Embers”. Sorry Iceland, but I have to give you nil pois for this one. Azerbaijan "Özünlə apar" by FAHREE feat. Ilkin Dovlatov Since debuting in 2008, Azerbaijan has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the Eurovision Song Contest, highlighted by its win in 2011 with "Running Scared" by Ell & Nikki. With a reputation for high-quality performances and frequent top 10 finishes, Azerbaijan continues to be a formidable and dynamic competitor in Eurovision. This year they were represented by FAHREE and Ilkin Dovlatov with their song "Özünlə apar". Despite historically doing well at Eurovision this only only netted them 11 points in the semi finals. But was this a justified 14th place finish at the semis? Honestly, I kind of like the song, it has a great sound to it and the singing is only adds to it but yet its missing something. Whilst the song has good vocals and seemed to be a decent representation of Mugham music, it lacked a lot of character we tend to expect from Azerbaijan and their performances. Speaking of, the performance they did required you to have seen the music video to “understand” it, which does not usually make for an entertaining viewing experience when you need to have extracurricular viewing requirements. In the end, it’s a decent song just not the best representation we’ve had out of the country, finishing 14th in the semi final was probably fair. Moldova “In The Middle” Natalia Barbu Since their debut in 2005, Moldova has made a significant impact on the Eurovision Song Contest with a mix of quirky and memorable performances. Highlighted by a 3rd place finish in 2017 with SunStroke Project's "Hey Mamma," Moldova continues to be a favourite for its unique and entertaining contributions to the contest. But what was this year's entry like? I think this might be the first song where my opinion differs from the results and I guess the rest of Europe. Natalia Barbu has beautiful vocals on this song, with her voice being the main focal point of the song carrying the bridge into the chorus which switches into her native language from English and even goes into a violin solo. This song is what many of us expect to hear when we think of Eurovision. The fact this song only barely finished above the previous 2 songs is criminal. It definitely deserved to finish higher, maybe even challenging for a final spot. Poland “The Tower” by Luna Debuting in 1994, Poland has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest with a wide range of musical styles and culturally infused performances. Despite not securing a win, Poland has achieved notable successes, particularly with Edyta Górniak's 2nd place in their debut year and other memorable entries like Donatan & Cleo's "My Słowianie" and Michał Szpak's "Color of Your Life." But enough about the past, what was this year’s song and performance like? Well considering it finished above Moldova it has to be good right?!?! WRONG. I like synth-pop, a few of my favourite songs of all time are synth songs. But this is one of the dullest synth pop songs I’ve heard. Not to mention the vocal performance itself isn't anything special, sure Luna can sing but it's not blowing anyone away. The stage performance was interesting with her performing on a chess board with 2 rook pieces, it was an entertaining performance and definitely deserves praise from that perspective. However I do think it finished around where it should have. 12th in the semi final is a good spot for it. It’s getting a 4. Australia “One Milkali (One Blood)” by Electric Fields A much more recent addition to Eurovision, Australia first appeared in 2015 and since making significant impact with strong entries and memorable performances. Highlighted by Dami Im's 2nd place finish in 2016 with "Sound of Silence," Australia has consistently delivered high-quality performances that blend powerful vocals, creative staging, and contemporary pop appeal. Australia's participation adds a unique and diverse dimension to the contest, further broadening Eurovision's global reach. However the reach wasn’t global enough this year as they failed to make it out of the semi final stage. Was this deserved? Well the song they performed wasn’t the worst song from Eurovision, and if there's anything Australia has proven its that they “get” eurovision. I personally liked the song and how they incorporated Aboriginal lyrics and instruments into the song. It had a fun and catchy house beat with a strong vocal performance to go along with it. Whilst failing to make it through to the semi’s, I don’t think Australia should be ashamed of their performance. A solid song, I’m giving it a 6.5/10 on my totally not arbitrary made up scoring system that's totally objective and not subjective. Malta “Loop” by Sarah Bonnici Malta has established itself as a formidable contender in the Eurovision Song Contest. The country has achieved notable success, particularly with Ira Losco's "7th Wonder" in 2002 and Chiara's "Angel" in 2005, both of which secured 2nd place finishes. Malta is celebrated for its strong vocal performances and polished pop songs. Despite not having secured a win yet, Malta continues to be a competitive and respected participant, consistently delivering engaging and high-quality entries that captivate audiences and showcase contemporary music blended with captivating stage presentations. Despite good history in the competition, I don't think this song was particularly anything special, whilst it had a fun live dance performance and Sarah has a great voice, I personally didn’t think it was anything special overall nor thought that it was Eurovision enough to deserve to go beyond the semi finals, which turns out others agreed with as it finished bottom of its semi final grouping. Not a bad song, just not very Eurovision or inspired. 4/10 Albania “Titan” Besa Albania has consistently participated in the Eurovision Song Contest, earning respect for its strong vocal performances and culturally rich entries. Highlighted by Rona Nishliu's 5th place finish in 2012 with "Suus," Albania has made a significant impact with its blend of powerful ballads, rock influences, and cultural authenticity. This year they were represented by Besa with the ballad “Titan” and failed to make it past the Semi Final. But was this what the song deserved? Yeah probably, whilst I personally am a sucker for ballads, this one wasn’t the more inspiring. Vocal ballads rely heavily on vocal performance and whilst Besa has beautiful voice, the performance didn’t live up to the height required for a ballad to do well at Eurovision. 5/10 Belgium “Before The Party Is Over” Mustii Belgium has made a significant impact on the Eurovision Song Contest with a variety of musical styles and memorable performances. This year they were represented by Mustii with the song “Before The Party Is Over”. The on stage performance featured Mustii performing whilst surrounded by a circle of microphones, which helped provide a memorable and unique visual. The song itself was described by Mustii as “pop with a dark edge” and honestly I sort of can see that, its very much similar to other pop ballads but Mustii’s voice is the main focus of the song and helps elevate it to the next level. The song build and builds as it slowly reaches a crescendo as it reaches its truly epic scale. This song is a hidden gem among the songs that failed to get past the semi final. It’s actually a crime that it did not make it through to the final. 7/10 Denmark “Sand” Saba Denmark has established itself as a formidable and respected presence in the Eurovision Song Contest, known for its high-quality entries and diverse musical styles. The country has achieved three notable victories: in 1963 with Grethe & Jørgen Ingmann's melodic "Dansevise," in 2000 with the Olsen Brothers' catchy "Fly on the Wings of Love," and in 2013 with Emmelie de Forest's powerful "Only Teardrops." But does “Sand” by Saba live up to this legacy? Well sort of? The song itself is a catchy vocal pop ballad that gets to show off Saba’s talent and skill however the song itself didn’t make it out of the semi finals and I honestly can understand why. However I don’t think this song should have finished above Belgium and I understand why this one couldn’t break it out of the Semi Finals. 5.5/10 Czechia “Pedestal” Aiko Czechia, also known as the Czech Republic, has been making its mark on the Eurovision Song Contest with a series of notable performances and increasing success since its debut in 2007. After initial challenges, including non-qualification in its first three attempts, Czechia's perseverance paid off with Mikolas Josef's energetic "Lie to Me" in 2018, which finished in 6th place, marking the country’s best result to date. This year they submitted the pop-punk song “Pedestal” by Aiko. This song seems to be a lot like marmite for a lot of people with some thinking that it deserved to make it into the final and others thinking that it did well to almost qualify but just missed out. Personally I think it's a fine song, but I don't think the final was missing the song, I’ll give a 5/10.

There’s more than one meaning for self-sufficiency when it comes to business. Some may interpret the term as a company that can run quite happily without needing the founder/owner there on a day-to-day basis. However, in this article, I’m talking about self-sufficiency from the state and other bodies you may currently rely on to operate, i.e. being in full control of your enterprise. What with all the upheaval in the energy sector and the escalating cost of gas, electricity and the fuel for your vehicles, the thought of self-sufficiency is an attractive one. No relying on the grid for power; no longer being held to ransom over escalating prices; knowing that you will always have a supply whatever happens. A lot of farms have their own systems in place, such as wind turbines and solar technology, making biofuels with a processor, and growing their own food…but then, they have the land and skills to do such things. For the average business, however, this isn’t as easy. That said, it’s definitely worth looking into what you can do, and what systems you could install. Some companies offer payment plans/finance on the initial outlay for green energy equipment, and the savings you’ll see will pay back this cost within a few years. Back in the 1970s, there was such a shortage of electricity, many companies had to compound their operating hours into three days each week to conserve electricity and to ensure there was enough to go round; whilst we wouldn’t imagine this could happen again in 2022, this could be out of our control. Though the UK doesn’t import much of its energy from other countries, the companies harvesting the energy from our land and shores are not governed by us. We can already see the impact the Russian-Ukraine conflict is having on energy prices and the (what I see as immoral) profits the energy companies are making; if you’re not self-sufficient, you’re at their mercy. The following suggestions all come at a cost, but the long-term returns and freedoms associated with them could be well worth the initial outlay. Look at securing your premises If you’re a business that rents its premises, you’re at the mercy of your landlord and what they may decide to do with the property at any given time. A lease and/or contract gives you some protection, but maybe there’s a good business case for you to purchase the building (or another building) yourself. This will create an asset for your business and help cement its longevity. If this could be the case for you, think hard about the space you actually need; you may be renting an area that’s a little larger than what’s required because the location was important when you were establishing yourself. Now that you’ve built a reputation and a solid customer base, maybe you could look to buy premises in a cheaper area. Think about green energy Of course, green energy solutions help the environment. They also help you from being reliant on the National Grid and energy suppliers. Look at solar panels if this is an option for you, or a wind turbine. Weigh up the cost and supply of alternative fuels, such as red diesel/LPG, or even the equipment needed to make your own. The storage of unused energy has come on in recent years; it’s entirely possible for a business to go ‘off grid’. Insulation The better insulated your premises, the less energy you will need to heat it. There are grants available that can help you insulate your offices or workspace, which will offset some of your utility costs. Look at conserving water There are tricks you can apply to conserve the amount of water you use in your business. Of course, a business’s needs in this regard can fluctuate, depending on what it does; however, consider gadgets that reduce the water used in each toilet flush, or a water butt that could be useful for ground works and cleaning outdoors. Every little helps! Consider your fuel bill Does every meeting have to be in person; could some be delivered via Zoom? Could your delivery process be streamlined, i.e. can the route be better planned to reduce milage? Can you offer a discount for multiple orders, so that they can be compounded into one delivery? Can local/nearby deliveries be fulfilled by bike? Turn things off properly Leaving computers on standby overnight can still cost you approximately £35 per desk, per year, which can soon add up if you have a lot of them. Only leave your security lights on when you leave and ensure everything else is turned off at the end of the day. Let there be light Even a small change like switching your lightbulbs to LED will reduce your utility costs. Consider investing in a few battery-powered lights or even a generator; both would come in very useful if the country is plunged into darkness at some point in the future. Alternative currencies What would it take for the pound to collapse? There are a few crypto-currencies around and it’s worth the conversation with an expert to see if this is something you should incorporate within your business, to ensure its continuity if things went pear-shaped with the country’s currency. The phrase ‘don’t keep all your eggs in one basket’ comes to mind. If this article sounds apocalyptic, it’s not meant to. It’s very empowering to know you could continue trading if the worst happened; we take so much for granted in this country. A self-sufficient business that has full control of its operations is extremely powerful.

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, have made an extraordinary appearance across the UK, thrilling skywatchers from the Scottish Highlands to the south coast of England. This rare spectacle, typically confined to more northern latitudes, was visible across the country following one of the strongest geomagnetic storms in recent memory. Excited onlookers captured stunning images of the lights and shared them on social media, with many describing the display as a "once-in-a-lifetime experience." For those who missed the Friday night show, there's good news: the aurora is expected to be visible again on Saturday night, although perhaps not as intense. Cause of the Spectacle This remarkable aurora event was triggered by an extreme geomagnetic storm, classified as a G5, the highest category. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had issued a rare solar storm warning before the event. These storms occur when charged particles from the sun, carried by solar wind, interact with Earth's magnetosphere. The collisions between these particles and gases in the Earth's atmosphere produce the vibrant colours of the aurora borealis. Impact of the Solar Storm While the Northern Lights themselves are harmless, the geomagnetic storm that caused them can have significant negative effects. The influx of charged particles can disrupt satellite operations, GPS signals, and power grids. The last major G5 storm in 2003 caused a power outage in Sweden. So far, no major disruptions have been reported from Friday's storm, but the potential for infrastructure impact remains. Ross Easton, a spokesperson for the Energy Networks Association, emphasized that the energy industry is well-prepared for such events, monitoring space weather forecasts closely. “The energy industry plans for a range of events far and wide - including into space,” he said. Prof Carole Haswell, head of astronomy at the Open University, highlighted the risk to satellite communications. "All of these charged particles speeding around disrupt radio signals, particularly GPS which is used by planes," she explained. Increasing Frequency of Aurora Borealis Sightings Friday's event was particularly rare; the last extreme geomagnetic storm of this magnitude occurred in 2003. Typically, the Northern Lights are visible only in the northern parts of the UK. However, there has been an increase in auroral activity reaching further south in recent years. This trend is partly due to the 11-year solar cycle, which is currently approaching its solar maximum. During this phase, the sun exhibits more sunspots, leading to more frequent and intense solar storms. Additionally, advancements in forecasting and the prevalence of smartphones capable of capturing bright lights have led to more frequent and widely reported sightings. Best Viewing Practices For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in the future, finding a location away from light pollution with a clear view of the night sky is recommended. Patience is key, as the best displays often occur late at night when the sky is darkest. This rare and spectacular display of the aurora borealis has not only delighted skywatchers but also underscored the powerful and sometimes disruptive influence of solar activity on our planet.

Striking out on your own and setting up a new business can be mentally, physically and emotionally challenging. You will need to be both resilient and resourceful. Developing your own Health and Wellbeing Toolkit can make a huge difference to your eventual success. Developing tools to help with decision-making is essential. You will inevitably encounter situations where there are multiple paths you could take. You may have lots of different ideas swirling around in your head about the impact those paths could have on your business. From an energy point of view, this can be exhausting. Consciously and subconsciously, your mind will be picking away at these ideas, reviewing the different options. This continuous low-level mental activity can be stressful and take up energy, which can ultimately be draining for your body and which may leave you feeling tired, irritable and out-of-sorts. Focus Wheel This is a well-established coaching technique. Using the Focus Wheel allows you to: Get ideas out of your head and onto a piece of paper, freeing up head space and boosting energy Evaluate your thoughts in a visual way, so that you can ‘see’ the way forward You need a pen and a piece of paper and to draw a pizza. Say you’re considering a number of different ideas for the type of business you could start. Each idea has its pros and cons, you just don’t know how to weigh them all up. Draw your pizza shape then label each slice of pizza with the name of an idea. Create as many slices as you need. Ask yourself this key question about each idea: How excited am I about this idea? Rate it out of 10, where 1 equals ‘I’m not excited at all’ and 10 equals ‘I’m bouncing with excitement’. Stick with the number that first pops in your mind. You’re tapping into your gut reactions, don’t overthink it. Identify the 2/3 ideas that excite you the most. Ignore the rest for now. Tapping into your excitement is vital. Running your own business can be hard work. If you don’t feel excited about what you will be doing, it’s unlikely to be sustainable, as your enthusiasm for it will run out. And besides, why would you choose to do something that doesn’t excite you? Now that you have your top 2/3 ideas, we need to repeat the process for each idea to drill down further and evaluate the pros and cons. Draw a new pizza, and onto each slice name all the pros and cons of that idea. Then ask yourself: How significant is this issue? Rate each out of 10; 1 = not significant at all, 10 = highly significant. Remember to go with your first number, don’t overthink it. Again, you will find that there are 2/3 significant pros or cons with each idea. Drill down again, i.e. repeat this process with each of the 2/3 significant pros or cons Using this process and getting to the heart of an issue will give you clarity. You will then be able to make a decision about which idea feels right to run with and which areas you need to address in order to succeed. Why bother doing any of this? As human beings, we have evolved over millennia to deal with emergency situations. We have an excellent fight-flight-freeze mechanism that helps us cope with short term, stressful emergencies as a result. Sadly, we have not yet developed an effective mechanism that deals with long-term, persistent, low-level stress, anxiety or worry. I’m talking about the niggling, persistent stuff that just sits there, day after day, wearing us down. Left unchecked, this energy draining contributes to all sorts of physical, mental and emotional issues, and it can eventually lead to chronic fatigue. Working with a Focus Wheel is a great way of stepping in and dealing with recurring thoughts that are consciously and subconsciously causing you worry, stress or anxiety. You can redirect your energy and interrupt the behaviours that contribute to fatigue. Another benefit that working with a Focus Wheel brings is a deeper connection to your gut instinct, to your intuition. This may not be an aspect of yourself that you have consciously developed, or even been aware of. You should never underestimate how important and powerful your instinctive reactions are. Your intuition is a survival mechanism and a great resource to tap into. As a small business owner, you need to take your health and wellbeing as seriously as your business plan and cashflow forecasts. You ARE your business. If your health and wellbeing became compromised, your business would be, too. Developing your toolkit and boosting your resilience are vital elements towards the success of your business. Combining Business with Health and Wellbeing Fatigue is often an indicator that all is not well with our health and wellbeing. If not addressed, it can develop into a chronic, long-term fatigue condition. I support people to develop their individual Health and Wellbeing Toolkits, so that they remain physically, emotionally and mentally healthy.  Having the skills to recover and channel your energy in a positive direction can be life-changing. The result of my work is that my clients can make the transitions they want to live full and happy lives. Suzanne Smith www.reconnectingyou.co.uk