“Positive Self-talk Can Benefit Your Health and Help You Cope With What Life Throws At You”

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4/28/2021

”Positive Self-talk Can Benefit Your Health and Help You Cope With What Life Throws At You”

The uncertainty of current events that have occurred recently can give us all negative thoughts. Before we know it, our mind wanders into negative self-talk. Am I going to catch COVID, is my job in jeopardy? Am I doing enough? How am I going to juggle work, kids, life? Should I get vaccinated, will things go back to normal? 
 
Self-talk can be both positive and destructive to your actions. Some might ask what self-talk is. After doing further research and some digging, according to PsycholgoyToday.com, many people are conscious of an inner voice that provides a running monologue in their lives throughout the day. The inner voice, also known as self-talk, combines conscious thoughts and unconscious beliefs and biases. It helps the brain interpret and process daily experiences.
Self-talk can have a huge impact on our daily lives, actions, the way we think about things, and how we think about ourselves. It can also affect what we think we are capable or not capable of. Naturally, we are prone to negative self-talk, such as making up assertions like, “I can’t do anything right,” “I don’t have enough time for anything,” or “I am not good enough. The list goes as to what negative self-talk we can think of in our heads.
So how do we even begin to turn that negative self-talk into constructive, positive self-talk?
 
Positive thinking and optimism can be effective stress management tools. Most of us know that a positive outlook on life can bring more health benefits. We stress less, we do not overthink things, and we are more open to ideas, handling changes, managing what life throws at us more constructively.
Here are some health benefits as to why positive self-talk is important to our health:
  • increased vitality
  • greater life satisfaction
  • improved immune function
  • reduced pain
  • better cardiovascular health
  • better physical well-being
  • reduced risk for death
  • less stress and distress
Learning to shift and change that inner dialogue is the first step to helping yourself improve your health and become more of a positive person. Understand this does not happen overnight. We all have different personalities and have differences of opinions and thoughts. What we can do is start thinking of certain scenarios. Recognizing some of your own negative self-talk. When you think about the negative, or you hear yourself being negative, just began flipping it to the opposite. Flip it to thinking positive.
 
For example:
 
Negative: I will end up embarrassing myself if I try this.
 
Positive: I tried something new and learned from it even if it did not work out.
 
Negative: I let my co-workers down because I was unable to attend the meeting.
 
Positive: I needed to complete a work task, and now I can focus on the meeting agenda.
 
Negative: I will disappoint my friends if I change my mind.
 
Positive: It is ok to say no. Others will understand.
These scenarios are examples of when and how you can turn negative self-talk into positive self-talk. Again, it takes practice. Forming a new habit such as this takes time and effort. Over time, your thoughts will shift to a more positive outlook.
Continue to evaluate your self-talk. As we know, humor can also be a stress reliever as well as relieve that tension. When you need to push for positive self-talk, find ways to laugh. Call a longtime friend or watch a funny movie.
 
Most importantly, give yourself positive affirmations. Sometimes just seeing positive words or inspiring images can be enough to redirect your thoughts. Again, self-talk, in general, can be great for your general health. Research repeatedly suggests that people with positive self-talk may have mental skills that allow them to solve problems, think differently, and be more efficient at coping with hardships or challenges. This again can reduce the harmful effects of stress, anxiety, coping, and so much more. Why wait for a new year to come. Start thinking about all the positive things around you now.

Julie Valdez

Corporate Communications Manager

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President Biden Announces Tax Credit for Small Businesses Offering Paid Leave for Vaccination

According to the White House, this tax credit will apply to nearly half of all private-sector employees in America.

presidio group insurance

4/28/2021

President Biden Announces Tax Credit for Small Businesses Offering Paid Leave for Vaccination

Recently, President Joe Biden issued a call for
employers to take additional steps to help get their
employees and communities vaccinated against
COVID-19.

As part of that effort, President Biden announced a
paid leave tax credit for small- and medium-sized
businesses. This credit will allow eligible employers to
fully offset the cost of paid leave for employees to
get vaccinated and recover from any after-effects of
the vaccination.

Eligible employers include businesses and nonprofits
with fewer than 500 employees. The credit will offset
the cost of paid leave for each employee for up to
two weeks (or 80 work hours) and up to $511 per day
of paid leave offered between April 1 and Sep. 30,
2021.

The credit will be funded by the recently passed
American Rescue Plan Act.

Employer Takeaway

Employers should review how this tax credit may
impact their organization. To learn more about
eligibility for this tax credit and how to claim the paid leave credit on quarterly tax filings. You can find more information from the Internal Revenue
Service

Additionally, the White House has asked employers
to share how they are taking steps to get their
employees and communities vaccinated. If
interested, employers can access this form here.
Presidio Group will keep you updated on any
noteworthy developments.

Presidio Group

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$29 Billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund Accepting Applications Beginning May 3

COVID

04/28/2021

$29 Billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund Accepting Applications Beginning May 3

Restaurants may begin submitting applications on May 3, 2021, to the Small Business Association (SBA) for a grant program geared toward combating the
the economic impact of COVID-19 on the restaurant industry.

The grant program, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, was allocated $29 billion from the $1.9 trillion economic relief bill passed earlier this year.
Through the fund, eligible restaurants can receive up to $10 million per business or up to $5 million for a single physical location. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as funds are used for eligible uses no later than March 11, 2023

Establishments eligible to apply for the grant program include restaurants (including franchises), bars, food trucks, breweries, bakeries, and caterers,
among others. Ineligible establishments include those that are permanently closed, publicly traded companies and businesses that own over 20
locations.

Funds may be used for specific expenses, including:

 Business payroll costs (including sick leave) Payments on any business mortgage obligation
 Business rent payments (this does not include prepayment of rent)
 Business debt service, both principal and interest (this does not include any
prepayment of principal or interest)
 Business utility payments
 Business maintenance expenses
 Construction of outdoor seating
 Business supplies, including protective equipment and cleaning materials
 Business Food and beverage expenses, including raw materials
 Covered supplier costs
 Business operating expenses

What’s Next?

Interested businesses should begin the application process as soon as possible. They can do so by preparing the proper documentation, registering for
the portal on April 30, and submitting their application on May 3. As with similar loan programs launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, this grant
money is limited and is expected to go quickly.

Additionally, the SBA announced that it will prioritize the applications of small businesses owned by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals for the first 21 days of the grant program. This means it’s even more important for organizations to jump in line as close to the May 3 opening as possible. Employers should visit the SBA website to learn more about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

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Why Presidio For Your Insurance Needs

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Tuesday November 10th, 2020

Why Presidio For Your Insurance Needs

As a business that first started from the ground up, we understand and know firsthand you have a lot on your plate. We know as a company that has had years of building, connecting, staffing, building relationships with clients, and making sure employees are first. We know having a business is an overwhelming experience.
 
Now put a Pandemic on top of all of that and include what is going on personally with the way everything is changing as well as professionally. Everyone’s plate is overflowing.
So why take on another task when you can have Presidio find you the best insurance and do all the work for you.
Finding insurance will be the most important aspect of your business. It is important not to let anything slip through the cracks. Business insurance is very important and needs immediate attention. Let Presidio answer all the questions you may have as well as finding you the most cost effective insurance for you or your business.
During this difficult time, we have seen many businesses afraid, worried, nervous about income loss, and even having their business looted and everything that comes with that. We are here to not only help you during these difficult times but also offer our support and help you find the best way to protect you during any circumstance.
The whole concept of insurance is to cover yourself, or your family and business financially against instances that you would not otherwise afford to cover. We all know that recently we have had many unforeseen circumstances. A question that you may have starting out is, “How will insurance help your business”.
  • Insurance covers you against financial risk of being found liable for causing injury loss, or damage to a third party or their belongings while on your property.
  • Insurance can help cover you against claims and legal costs that may arise.
  • Now with valuable data being online you also have to protect your important documentation, employee information, client and customer’s information etc.
  • Depending on the size of your company and the number of employees you hire, you may consider income insurance, business interruption, and/or personal accident insurance.
  • Most importantly, making sure you are protected for something that you have worked so hard for.
We understand that there many choices to choose from and the insurance process can be very overwhelming. Working with one of our brokers will help you figure out what is best for you. Choosing insurance is just as important as the person you work with to help find the right coverage.
What makes Presidio different? The difference is we know from experience, knowledge, and have learned from our own mistakes with running a business that there is no one size-fits-all when it comes to insurance. We know and understand every business has different requirements, factors, and all are ever changing no matter what industry. We are here to learn about you and your business. Just like Presidio, we are proud of the business, friendships, and family we have built.
It is important for you to take the time to evaluate your business and what those risk factors may be and then call us to speak to a broker to find you the best solution. We are human like you, and we will treat you as we do our own employees, like family.
 
Our Promise is your Protection.

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We Were Never Be Prepared For eLearning Nationwide But Here It Goes / Tips for E Learning

presidio group insurance

11/9/2020

We Were Never Be Prepared For eLearning Nationwide But Here It Goes / Tips for E Learning

The sudden closure of schools across the U.S. due to COVID-19 has changed the lives of many families with school-aged children. Children are being asked to learn from home, expected to send assignments online, and Zoom with their teachers and classmates, all while parents are still having to cope with day to day life.
For many, this will be a new experience. It is not easy to convert homes into classrooms. Just doing a few things to make you and your children comfortable and focused is all that matters. You do what works best for your family.
 
Here are ten tips to prepare you and your child for online learning at home while keeping a little of your sanity.
1. Create space just for your child.
A few things to factor in is, what area of your home has fewer distractions for your child. If you are a parent working from home are you able to be near them just in case they need that extra hand. In addition, is the area clutter-free? Just think about your own workspace as a parent. If you have a messy area with papers everywhere, you can feel a bit overwhelmed. Just imagine how this can make a five-year-old feel. Creating that necessary space for your child will help them focus, and process things much easier while also staying engaged on their Zoom class meeting.
2. Make a schedule and stick to it.
Look at your family schedule and create one for your child. A schedule that you know you and your child will stick too. With no school bell to mark kids tardy, they might feel like sleeping in. With no set schedule, kids might never get around to schoolwork. Finding time for learning requires planning. Look at your family’s schedule and figure out the best times for each activity. If your child’s teacher came up with a schedule for them even better. Just make sure it is visible around your child’s workspace so that they know what is expected.
 
3. Communicate
Keep communicating with the school and your child’s teacher if you have any questions. I am sure you are feeling like they are being bombarded with questions and responses. It is okay to ask any questions you may have. On the other hand let your child email them if they happen to have any questions. Taking this time to help your child learn a new way to communicate might be helpful. I am sure we never thought we would be teaching our 5 years old how to write an email!
 
4. Reduce distractions.
Eliminating distractions can be difficult for many. Distractions are all around and even more so at home. If your child has siblings, I am sure they can be a distraction. If your child has a T.V. close to their workspace that could potentially be a distraction. Your pet if you have one, video games, IPad, Social Media, we have many distractions at home. Talk with your child to help come up with solutions. Or you can begin your first week of eLearning and find what distractions your child might be having then try to work through them. If your dog is a distraction, maybe place the dog with you in your office or away from your child. If your child is getting distracted by, the games on the IPad turn off the Wi-Fi during a certain part of the day. Of course, one that is convenient for the whole family. Perhaps at dinnertime or in the evening. Do what works best for your family.
 
5. Use a calendar and color-code it.
Setting up a system to help your child with dates and deadlines will help. Even those children with special needs. Setting up a color-coded calendar will help your child see visually what will occur and what is expected when it comes to school and handing things in. When a child can visually see what needs to be done it will help them better understand what is expected of them. Let your child help you create the calendar or use your child’s favorite colors. This might be a fun activity for them.
6. Get your child moving.
As a child, do you remember having to get up and shake out all the wiggles at school? Your child moving around and giving them plenty of exercise will help them focus and stay engaged while on Zoom. We have access to so much on the internet you can choose from so many different activities. Find a kids yoga to do together, play some music from your phone and dance, go for a quick bike ride around the block, play tag for a bit. The list goes on. We should not expect our children to sit all day. Physical activity for your child will not only reduce stress but prevent anxiety as well.
 
7. Look for ways to remove learning barriers.
If your child has learning challenges, it is important for you to review the online material and any other material your child’s teacher offers. Keep open communication with your child’s support if they have them such as, speech therapist, OT, School Psychologist etc. Keep in mind this is a new approach for everyone. eLearning was not set up to reach all child’s needs. eLearning has been created to help give your child a direction and continuation of learning. It is still important to keep up with your child’s needs and learning how to fulfill their needs in different ways to give them the support they need during this time.
8. Communicate in ways that help your child.
Be open to different forms of communication. If your child has a question, perhaps setting up a Face-time with your child’s teacher will help them understand better. Your child could also send a video as a response. Keeping all the forms of communication will help your child get the answers that he or she needs and it might be fun learning different way of communicating for your child.
9. Try to make Online learning as interactive as possible.
Children need the opportunity participate. Try to find other sources to help your kids learn how to interact and ask questions online. Perhaps finding apps online. Education.com is a great source to start with. ABC Mouse is a great resource as well, and there are great free resources as to find.
10. Keep it simple.
Most importantly, keep everything simple. Not only for your child but also for you as a parent. Simple, clear directions and expectations is what will get us all through this history making school year. It is hard enough that many parents have to work remote, teach their child remotely, as well as take care of everything else around them. Many parents have more than one child or a special needs child. The point is everyone has his or her own challenges. By keeping it simple, giving yourself grace, and knowing that you are not alone will help you get through the threshold of all this and I promise you are not alone!

Julie Valdez

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What is Trade Credit Insurance – and Why Did COVID-19 Make Businesses Realize They Might Need It?

presidio group insurance

11/4/2020

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization officially declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. According to a recent publication on the economic impact of COVID-19 by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the median business with more than $10,000 in monthly expenses only had about two weeks of cash on hand at the time of the survey.
 
As leading commercial insurance brokers, our Agency Partners have examined the circumstances surrounding the pandemic, which enables them to custom-tailor policies to help protect your business from future disasters.
 
As we all know the Pandemic has caused numerous shut-downs. Many U.S. businesses closed temporarily or began operating at a limited capacity. To recover from suddenly crippled revenue streams, some businesses sought funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act—but many businesses saw it as difficult to establish eligibility and the program quickly ran out of funds. With no access to government aid, some business owners hoped to file claims for losses under their commercial insurance policies that provided coverage for business interruption. However, for business interruption coverage to apply to revenue losses, in general, physical damage must be the underlying cause of such losses to the insured business. As a result, although they may have had coverage for business interruption, many business owners realized they did not have coverage for revenue losses resulting from COVID-19.
 
How Trade Credit Insurance Can Help Protect Businesses To help protect businesses from future threats, businesses should consider adding a trade credit insurance policy to help cover losses from non-payment of a commercial trade debt. If customers are unable to pay, a trade credit policy can pay a percentage of the debt owed, typically 90% of the amount outstanding. This specifically helps protect against customer insolvency, protracted default, political events, acts of war or disasters like the coronavirus pandemic, among other things.
 
How to Apply for Trade Credit Insurance Due to the hard lessons learned from COVID-19, trade credit insurers are now experiencing a surge in new applicants. Acrisure Agency Partners deliver in this area by working with TRG (Trade Risk Group), which specializes in trade credit insurance and knows how to help custom-tailor a policy to fit the needs of individual businesses. We can thoroughly evaluate a business, including its goals for growth. And, we can also examine the financial health of a business’s customers and potential customers, assessing how likely its customers are to pay invoices on time. This helps businesses better understand the coverage amounts recommended—and can also act as a roadmap for avoiding potentially risky customers.
 
Consider contacting Presidio today which is a proud partner of Acrisure – one of the top 10 largest insurance brokers in the world. Presidio continues to innovate a national and global network of industries that specializes in providing to hands-on, best-in-class service.
 
Contact Presidio today.
#630-513-6600

Julie Valdez

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