Monday 6 April 2015
The Culinary Side of New Zealand
Like me, if you enjoy travelling, then I’m sure that food is one of the major reasons why you travel. This is one aspect of travelling that never fails to amaze me. You can tell a lot about a country by sampling its food.
Food is also something that we New Zealanders take pride in. As a lot of my friends abroad wanted to know about the country, I thought, “What better way to help them understand more about New Zealand than talking about the local delicacies?”
Food of New Zealand
New Zealand has a wonderful mix of Maori and European cuisines. Add to it the continual growth of Asian cuisine, and delicacies from the Pacific islands, and you have a smorgasbord of sights, aromas, and tastes. However, I would like to talk about some dishes and styles of cooking that are quintessentially Kiwi.
• Seafood: With a coastline of 14,000 kilometres, seafood is an essential part of New Zealand cuisine. A local speciality here is green lipped mussels, a shellfish dish that can be cooked with parmesan cheese or Thai red curry. Another local dish is bluff oysters. These are grown in the waters of the Foveaux Strait. We even have a Bluff oyster festival in May to commemorate this dish.
Other seafood delicacies include deep fried whitebait, which are caught during springtime. Scallops are also a favourite as they are found in abundance here. Like the bluff oyster, we hold a scallop festival every September.
• Maori Hangi: The term ‘Hangi’ stands for ‘earth oven.’ This is a traditional Maori cooking method, however, it is only used for special occasions now. The hangi can be used to cook savoury as well as sweet dishes. Simple dishes include chicken or seafood, steamed or slow cooked along with vegetables. If you have a craving for something sweet, you can check out some traditional hangi steamed pudding.
• Desserts: Kiwis are known for their sweet tooth, and ice cream is a passion for us. A favourite is Hokey Pokey – vanilla ice cream with honeycomb. Another local favorite is Pavlova – a meringue type dish, which is served with fresh fruit and cream. This dish is particularly popular during the Christmas season. If this does not entice your taste buds, the simplest side treat can be a bowl of kiwifruit, which is known for its taste and health benefits.
There is so much more that I can tell you about the culinary side New Zealand. However, simply writing about it won’t be enough. You will have to come here and experience it.
Food is also something that we New Zealanders take pride in. As a lot of my friends abroad wanted to know about the country, I thought, “What better way to help them understand more about New Zealand than talking about the local delicacies?”
Food of New Zealand
New Zealand has a wonderful mix of Maori and European cuisines. Add to it the continual growth of Asian cuisine, and delicacies from the Pacific islands, and you have a smorgasbord of sights, aromas, and tastes. However, I would like to talk about some dishes and styles of cooking that are quintessentially Kiwi.
• Seafood: With a coastline of 14,000 kilometres, seafood is an essential part of New Zealand cuisine. A local speciality here is green lipped mussels, a shellfish dish that can be cooked with parmesan cheese or Thai red curry. Another local dish is bluff oysters. These are grown in the waters of the Foveaux Strait. We even have a Bluff oyster festival in May to commemorate this dish.
Other seafood delicacies include deep fried whitebait, which are caught during springtime. Scallops are also a favourite as they are found in abundance here. Like the bluff oyster, we hold a scallop festival every September.
• Maori Hangi: The term ‘Hangi’ stands for ‘earth oven.’ This is a traditional Maori cooking method, however, it is only used for special occasions now. The hangi can be used to cook savoury as well as sweet dishes. Simple dishes include chicken or seafood, steamed or slow cooked along with vegetables. If you have a craving for something sweet, you can check out some traditional hangi steamed pudding.
• Desserts: Kiwis are known for their sweet tooth, and ice cream is a passion for us. A favourite is Hokey Pokey – vanilla ice cream with honeycomb. Another local favorite is Pavlova – a meringue type dish, which is served with fresh fruit and cream. This dish is particularly popular during the Christmas season. If this does not entice your taste buds, the simplest side treat can be a bowl of kiwifruit, which is known for its taste and health benefits.
There is so much more that I can tell you about the culinary side New Zealand. However, simply writing about it won’t be enough. You will have to come here and experience it.
Thursday 2 April 2015
Fishing Spots in and Around Auckland
If you’re an Aucklander, chances are you have gone on a fishing trip. Fishing is a popular and longstanding hobby for Auckland residents, with many great locations in and around the city. If you are thinking of coming to Auckland, and fishing is your main goal, then you need to have inside information on the best places to go.
Where to Fish around Auckland
Being a fishing enthusiast myself, I have tried to find different places in and around the city where you can find a quiet place, cast your line, and catch some amazing fish. For first timers, I would recommend the following fishing spots.
• Waitemata Harbor: Also known as Auckland Harbor, this forms the north and east coast along the Auckland peninsula. Despite being a central port, Waitemata has many points of access along the wharves and headlands. You have the opportunity to fish for strong young snappers here. Weekends are a good time to come here, as the ferries are not as frequent as during the week.
• City Suburbs: The harbor can be used as a starting point to travel to fishing areas close by. Coastal suburbs known as great fishing spots include the Herne Bay wharf, Tamaki Drive, and the Orakei wharf. Fishing enthusiasts will find the fish biting in these areas, and you can catch garfish and kingfish.
• South Auckland: The southern part of Auckland also has a variety of fishing hubs. The old Mangere Bridge off Manukau Harbor, as well as the Huia wharf are great attractions for young and old fishing enthusiasts. You will find various types of snapper, gurnard, and the coastal fish kahawai.
• Eastern Auckland: Besides the harbors and wharfs, Auckland also boasts of beaches that are sought after by recreational fisherman. Maraetai Beach and Duder’s Beach are among the well-known locales to set up your fishing line. Another favorite spot is Musick Point, located east of the Tamaki River. These three areas are rich with trevally, kingfish, snappers, and large kahawai.
• Kawakawa Bay: Kawakawa Bay is a place that will meet all the needs of rock fishing. By that, I mean a singular rock near the water, where a man can cast a line and pass hours at a time. Rock formations are found just off the main bay. Despite the kelp that is floating around in the water, you can have the opportunity to fish here. Flounder and king fish are known to swim through these waters.
These are some of my favorite fishing spots in and around Auckland. If you happen to visit any of these places any time soon, do reply to this post, telling me about your experiences.
Where to Fish around Auckland
Being a fishing enthusiast myself, I have tried to find different places in and around the city where you can find a quiet place, cast your line, and catch some amazing fish. For first timers, I would recommend the following fishing spots.
• Waitemata Harbor: Also known as Auckland Harbor, this forms the north and east coast along the Auckland peninsula. Despite being a central port, Waitemata has many points of access along the wharves and headlands. You have the opportunity to fish for strong young snappers here. Weekends are a good time to come here, as the ferries are not as frequent as during the week.
• City Suburbs: The harbor can be used as a starting point to travel to fishing areas close by. Coastal suburbs known as great fishing spots include the Herne Bay wharf, Tamaki Drive, and the Orakei wharf. Fishing enthusiasts will find the fish biting in these areas, and you can catch garfish and kingfish.
• South Auckland: The southern part of Auckland also has a variety of fishing hubs. The old Mangere Bridge off Manukau Harbor, as well as the Huia wharf are great attractions for young and old fishing enthusiasts. You will find various types of snapper, gurnard, and the coastal fish kahawai.
• Eastern Auckland: Besides the harbors and wharfs, Auckland also boasts of beaches that are sought after by recreational fisherman. Maraetai Beach and Duder’s Beach are among the well-known locales to set up your fishing line. Another favorite spot is Musick Point, located east of the Tamaki River. These three areas are rich with trevally, kingfish, snappers, and large kahawai.
• Kawakawa Bay: Kawakawa Bay is a place that will meet all the needs of rock fishing. By that, I mean a singular rock near the water, where a man can cast a line and pass hours at a time. Rock formations are found just off the main bay. Despite the kelp that is floating around in the water, you can have the opportunity to fish here. Flounder and king fish are known to swim through these waters.
These are some of my favorite fishing spots in and around Auckland. If you happen to visit any of these places any time soon, do reply to this post, telling me about your experiences.
Monday 30 March 2015
5 Reasons to Travel to Hawaii
The time of spring breaks and summer vacations is almost here. Having travelled to different countries around the world, there are some places that have truly captured my heart. So much so, I make it a point to plan a trip with my family to visit them whenever possible. For us, there is one particular place that we consider a dream destination – Hawaii! If you are looking for a place with sun, sand, great food, courteous people, and a rich history and culture, then Hawaii is the destination for you.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hawaii
Here are some of the reasons why I recommend Hawaii for a spring/summer vacation.
1. The Weather: Hawaii is known for the amazing weather. On an average, the temperature remains steady between 80 and 85 degrees. Also, the lush greenery and coastal environment create a cool breezy atmosphere. It creates an ambience akin to paradise.
2. The Beaches and the Oceans: You may be astounded to hear this, but Hawaii has over 400 open beaches, and 750+ miles of shoreline. This gives you unlimited choices of beaches and ocean views. Various underwater activities allow you to explore the vast greenery and ocean wildlife available around the islands.
3. Beautiful Scenery: One of the first things that you notice here is the pristine beauty of the islands. The main island of Hawaii has volcanoes, valleys, and waterfalls. Kauai Island has amazing sea cliffs, the Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast. Oahu Island has the North Shore and Hanauma Bay. Maui Island consists of 'Iao Valley, the Hana Coast, and Haleakala National Park.
4. Food: When it comes to food, Hawaii is an international melting pot. There are five different styles of Hawaiian cuisine, which showcases a rich vegetarian and non-vegetarian food history. All the dishes are prepared with fresh, bright, colorful, organic ingredients. Besides the local Hawaiian cuisine, you will also find restaurants providing dishes from Chinese, Italian, Korean, Mexican, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisines.
5. Complete Fun & Relaxation: If fun and relaxation are the main reasons for your trip, then Hawaii provides an array of spas, resorts, retreats, and beach side shacks. Most places also offer low cost options for families with kids.
If adventure sports are your idea of a holiday, then there are a variety of water sports like surfing, sailing, boating, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking.
Need I say more? So the next time you plan a summer vacation, simply pack your bags, and get ready to say ‘Aloha!’
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hawaii
Here are some of the reasons why I recommend Hawaii for a spring/summer vacation.
1. The Weather: Hawaii is known for the amazing weather. On an average, the temperature remains steady between 80 and 85 degrees. Also, the lush greenery and coastal environment create a cool breezy atmosphere. It creates an ambience akin to paradise.
2. The Beaches and the Oceans: You may be astounded to hear this, but Hawaii has over 400 open beaches, and 750+ miles of shoreline. This gives you unlimited choices of beaches and ocean views. Various underwater activities allow you to explore the vast greenery and ocean wildlife available around the islands.
3. Beautiful Scenery: One of the first things that you notice here is the pristine beauty of the islands. The main island of Hawaii has volcanoes, valleys, and waterfalls. Kauai Island has amazing sea cliffs, the Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast. Oahu Island has the North Shore and Hanauma Bay. Maui Island consists of 'Iao Valley, the Hana Coast, and Haleakala National Park.
4. Food: When it comes to food, Hawaii is an international melting pot. There are five different styles of Hawaiian cuisine, which showcases a rich vegetarian and non-vegetarian food history. All the dishes are prepared with fresh, bright, colorful, organic ingredients. Besides the local Hawaiian cuisine, you will also find restaurants providing dishes from Chinese, Italian, Korean, Mexican, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisines.
5. Complete Fun & Relaxation: If fun and relaxation are the main reasons for your trip, then Hawaii provides an array of spas, resorts, retreats, and beach side shacks. Most places also offer low cost options for families with kids.
If adventure sports are your idea of a holiday, then there are a variety of water sports like surfing, sailing, boating, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking.
Need I say more? So the next time you plan a summer vacation, simply pack your bags, and get ready to say ‘Aloha!’
Friday 27 March 2015
Dermatology Trends in 2015
Non-invasive cosmetic surgery and dermatology have grown in importance and popularity over the last few years. People have become more image conscious, and this has led to many youngsters and adults opting for non-invasive therapies.
In 2014, the American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS) conducted a survey on non-invasive cosmetic procedures. The survey took opinions of the public on whether they would opt for cosmetic procedures to improve their appearance. Out of 8,300 survey participants, 52% said they would prefer to use non-invasive techniques to refresh their appearance.
Reasons behind the Growth of Cosmetics and Dermatology
The survey proves that many women and men are giving a great deal of thought about cosmetic or dermatological procedures, and how it affects their appearance. There are a variety of reasons for the growing interest in cosmetics and dermatology:
• New technologies have led to the availability of many non-invasive techniques.
• New technologies ensures fewer side effects.
• With higher paying jobs, consumers are in a better position to opt for high cost and quality treatments.
• More people have become aware of dermatology and cosmetics as industries. They are also aware of the benefits accrued from cosmetic procedures.
Current Trends in the Dermatology Industry
Keeping all the above points in mind, there are certain cosmetic and dermatological trends that may be seen 2015 onwards. The below points have been taken from spa industry publication, Americanspa.com:
• Certain minimally invasive procedures like fillers, Botox, and photo rejuvenation will continue to grow in popularity.
• According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), in 2013, out of 1,000,000 cosmetic procedures, 9% of these were for male patients. Although still a minority, men will also play a part in the number of people opting for cosmetic procedures.
• Perhaps the biggest trend that will aid the dermatology and cosmetics industries is the expanding age groups. Today, cosmetic procedures are not restricted to only youngsters or adults. Both age groups are realizing the importance of these techniques, and are opting for the same.
There is a lot of work going into cosmetic research as well. Various organizations are conducting tests to create and provide Botox in a gel formulation. It is expected that clinical trials will begin by the end of this year, or early 2016.
The various trends may lead to greater knowledge and understanding of cosmetics and dermatology. One may see more people giving aesthetic medicine as much importance as their medical healthcare.
In 2014, the American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS) conducted a survey on non-invasive cosmetic procedures. The survey took opinions of the public on whether they would opt for cosmetic procedures to improve their appearance. Out of 8,300 survey participants, 52% said they would prefer to use non-invasive techniques to refresh their appearance.
Reasons behind the Growth of Cosmetics and Dermatology
The survey proves that many women and men are giving a great deal of thought about cosmetic or dermatological procedures, and how it affects their appearance. There are a variety of reasons for the growing interest in cosmetics and dermatology:
• New technologies have led to the availability of many non-invasive techniques.
• New technologies ensures fewer side effects.
• With higher paying jobs, consumers are in a better position to opt for high cost and quality treatments.
• More people have become aware of dermatology and cosmetics as industries. They are also aware of the benefits accrued from cosmetic procedures.
Current Trends in the Dermatology Industry
Keeping all the above points in mind, there are certain cosmetic and dermatological trends that may be seen 2015 onwards. The below points have been taken from spa industry publication, Americanspa.com:
• Certain minimally invasive procedures like fillers, Botox, and photo rejuvenation will continue to grow in popularity.
• According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), in 2013, out of 1,000,000 cosmetic procedures, 9% of these were for male patients. Although still a minority, men will also play a part in the number of people opting for cosmetic procedures.
• Perhaps the biggest trend that will aid the dermatology and cosmetics industries is the expanding age groups. Today, cosmetic procedures are not restricted to only youngsters or adults. Both age groups are realizing the importance of these techniques, and are opting for the same.
There is a lot of work going into cosmetic research as well. Various organizations are conducting tests to create and provide Botox in a gel formulation. It is expected that clinical trials will begin by the end of this year, or early 2016.
The various trends may lead to greater knowledge and understanding of cosmetics and dermatology. One may see more people giving aesthetic medicine as much importance as their medical healthcare.
Monday 23 March 2015
Understanding Stress Related Skin Conditions
One inescapable factor that is the underlying reason for many diseases and health problems is stress. Stress could be a major factor for the onset or escalation of a disease. While many of us may know that stress can lead to internal problems, did you know that it can also be a reason for skin problems? Let’s find out more about this.
Understanding How Stress Affects the Skin
When your body is undergoing immense stress, or encounters a dangerous situation, the brain’s hypothalamus sets off the body’s alarm system. The system communicates to the adrenal glands to release different types of stress hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and epinephrine. Adrenaline elevates your heart rate, blood pressure, and the body’s energy. Cortisol increases glucose in the bloodstream and the brain begins using more glucose. Such stress hormones affect the nerve endings that are located around the skin, and can irritate the skin causing certain reactions like pimples or acne.
Why is this Important?
Most of us can say that this is a natural process that need not be given too much importance. However, skin conditions can be taken as a sign that the body is undergoing turmoil, and the problem needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Examples of these can be anxiety, hypertension, digestive problems, heart disease, and even depression. Also, with many parts of society focusing on the appearance of people, skin conditions caused by stress can lead to social ridicule.
Types of Skin Conditions caused by Stress
As mentioned above, stress can result in the body exhibiting a variety of skin conditions. The list below highlights a few simple and complex conditions:
• Sty: This is a simple example where the stress hormones create excess heat in the body, leading to the growth of a boil on the edge of the eyelid.
• Vitiligo: A traumatic event, such as a death in the family, or supporting a loved one in critical care, can create a fear response in the body, which may lead to vitiligo. Stress can destroy the pigments under the skin, which leads to large white patches and even sunburn.
• Eczema: While stress may not cause this condition, it can worsen the symptoms to a great extent. When the body is stressed, it causes a self-defense mechanism to take place within the body. In the case of eczema, this leads to skin inflammation, which aggravates the condition.
• Shingles: Also known as herpes zoster, this is a blistering skin rash that affects one side of the face or torso. Shingles is generally caused due to a weak immune system. Immense psychological stress can lead to shingle outbreaks in young adults and elderly people.
• Psoriasis: There is an interrelationship between stress and psoriasis. Stress can be a major cause for the condition, while psoriasis can lead to more stress. It is also known to worsen the condition.
• Pityriasis Rosea: A skin rash that lasts for about six to eight weeks, pityriasis rosea can be aggravated with the onset of stress. Stress can also add to the other symptoms that are experienced with this rash, such as flu, sore throat, nausea, fatigue, aching, and decreased appetite.
How to Prevent Stress Related Skin Conditions
Treatments for stress related skin conditions can vary between topical treatments and alternative therapies. It would be advisable to undergo both treatments simultaneously to ensure complete and faster recovery.
• Topical Treatments: This treatment type includes using skincare products with organic compounds.
• Alternative Therapies: The following therapies help rid the body of stress, and thus alleviate one of the primary causes of a skin condition:
Skin conditions can become recurring problems if left unchecked. Understanding how stress can affect skin diseases can help you make quick and smart decisions in terms of treatment, and thus, maintain your health.
Understanding How Stress Affects the Skin
When your body is undergoing immense stress, or encounters a dangerous situation, the brain’s hypothalamus sets off the body’s alarm system. The system communicates to the adrenal glands to release different types of stress hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and epinephrine. Adrenaline elevates your heart rate, blood pressure, and the body’s energy. Cortisol increases glucose in the bloodstream and the brain begins using more glucose. Such stress hormones affect the nerve endings that are located around the skin, and can irritate the skin causing certain reactions like pimples or acne.
Why is this Important?
Most of us can say that this is a natural process that need not be given too much importance. However, skin conditions can be taken as a sign that the body is undergoing turmoil, and the problem needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Examples of these can be anxiety, hypertension, digestive problems, heart disease, and even depression. Also, with many parts of society focusing on the appearance of people, skin conditions caused by stress can lead to social ridicule.
Types of Skin Conditions caused by Stress
As mentioned above, stress can result in the body exhibiting a variety of skin conditions. The list below highlights a few simple and complex conditions:
• Sty: This is a simple example where the stress hormones create excess heat in the body, leading to the growth of a boil on the edge of the eyelid.
• Vitiligo: A traumatic event, such as a death in the family, or supporting a loved one in critical care, can create a fear response in the body, which may lead to vitiligo. Stress can destroy the pigments under the skin, which leads to large white patches and even sunburn.
• Eczema: While stress may not cause this condition, it can worsen the symptoms to a great extent. When the body is stressed, it causes a self-defense mechanism to take place within the body. In the case of eczema, this leads to skin inflammation, which aggravates the condition.
• Shingles: Also known as herpes zoster, this is a blistering skin rash that affects one side of the face or torso. Shingles is generally caused due to a weak immune system. Immense psychological stress can lead to shingle outbreaks in young adults and elderly people.
• Psoriasis: There is an interrelationship between stress and psoriasis. Stress can be a major cause for the condition, while psoriasis can lead to more stress. It is also known to worsen the condition.
• Pityriasis Rosea: A skin rash that lasts for about six to eight weeks, pityriasis rosea can be aggravated with the onset of stress. Stress can also add to the other symptoms that are experienced with this rash, such as flu, sore throat, nausea, fatigue, aching, and decreased appetite.
How to Prevent Stress Related Skin Conditions
Treatments for stress related skin conditions can vary between topical treatments and alternative therapies. It would be advisable to undergo both treatments simultaneously to ensure complete and faster recovery.
• Topical Treatments: This treatment type includes using skincare products with organic compounds.
- Benzoyl peroxide: This organic compound is used in creams and ointments to treat acne. Retinoids are another compound designed for acne treatments.
- Corticosteroids: A compound used to treat eczema, corticosteroids is available in many forms including foams, creams, lotions, and ointments.
- Salicylic acid: This drug is an active ingredient in many skin care products for the treatment of warts and rashes.
• Alternative Therapies: The following therapies help rid the body of stress, and thus alleviate one of the primary causes of a skin condition:
- Relaxation Training: This comprises any technique, process, or procedure that can help reduce the stress levels of the patient. Examples of these are yoga, QiGong, pranayama, and Tai Chi.
- Massage Therapy: Getting massages at regular intervals can help the body and mind maintain a de-stressed state. Reduced stress levels can help enhance the dissipation speed of a skin condition.
- Habit Reversal Training: Many times, regular outbursts of skin conditions can result in the patient picking and scratching the skin. If left unchecked, this can become a negative routine. Habit reversal training is designed to treat and impede any behavioral disorder that is a result of a skin condition.
Skin conditions can become recurring problems if left unchecked. Understanding how stress can affect skin diseases can help you make quick and smart decisions in terms of treatment, and thus, maintain your health.
Friday 20 March 2015
A Kiwi Cricket Fan’s Suggestions to The Team
The ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 has been an exciting tournament so far. As a New Zealander and Kiwi fan, I am very happy with the boys’ performance so far. We are currently unbeaten at the group stage with six matches and six wins. This gives us a total of 12 points so far, with a Net Run Rate (NRR) of 2.564. Since January 2014, the Kiwis have won eight one-day internationals, and 21 out of 31 matches. The deciding factor will be the last quarter final match against West Indies in Wellington on Saturday. This isn’t just any other match, and we have time to our advantage.
Factors that the Kiwis Need to Keep in Mind
Considering that we have time till Saturday, here are some aspects that our boys may have to keep in mind:
• Get Milne Back: This is where time is helpful. Adam Milne recently injured his shoulder, and was kept out of the Bangladesh match in the process. He should have a decent amount of time to recover and be ready for Saturday’s match.
• Keep the Pace: The change in regulations of the number of fielders allowed outside the ring has caused issues for bowlers in general. But despite this, our boys have managed to keep the pace in all matches. This is due to the fact that we have not had any problems with seam and swing so far. Our home pitches have helped us in providing a certain amount of speed, seam, and swing. Australia’s pitches provide a great amount of bounce and swing. We need to take advantage of these facts, and use them to move forward in the competition.
• Maintain the Individual-Team Balance: Many people have admired the fact that our team has individuals who have shone. Brendon McCullum is the most appropriate example, as his batting has helped win most games. Corey Anderson has boosted the bowling side with his wicket taking spree. Martin Guptill shone with his ton against Bangladesh. At the same time, we have maintained a strong team core, and have worked very well as a unit. This wonderful balance can be used as a strong tool to continue winning matches.
• Keep the Aggression: Kane Williamson recently said that the combination of calm and aggression has helped the team to play well. This has been the key to our success in this World Cup. We are playing great cricket so far. Let’s keep it that way, and maintain a calm mind and an aggressive approach.
I honestly believe that the World Cup will not be far from our grasp, if we keep such points in mind when we play the quarter final game on Saturday. Hopefully, this year will be the one where we bring the Cup home.
Factors that the Kiwis Need to Keep in Mind
Considering that we have time till Saturday, here are some aspects that our boys may have to keep in mind:
• Get Milne Back: This is where time is helpful. Adam Milne recently injured his shoulder, and was kept out of the Bangladesh match in the process. He should have a decent amount of time to recover and be ready for Saturday’s match.
• Keep the Pace: The change in regulations of the number of fielders allowed outside the ring has caused issues for bowlers in general. But despite this, our boys have managed to keep the pace in all matches. This is due to the fact that we have not had any problems with seam and swing so far. Our home pitches have helped us in providing a certain amount of speed, seam, and swing. Australia’s pitches provide a great amount of bounce and swing. We need to take advantage of these facts, and use them to move forward in the competition.
• Maintain the Individual-Team Balance: Many people have admired the fact that our team has individuals who have shone. Brendon McCullum is the most appropriate example, as his batting has helped win most games. Corey Anderson has boosted the bowling side with his wicket taking spree. Martin Guptill shone with his ton against Bangladesh. At the same time, we have maintained a strong team core, and have worked very well as a unit. This wonderful balance can be used as a strong tool to continue winning matches.
• Keep the Aggression: Kane Williamson recently said that the combination of calm and aggression has helped the team to play well. This has been the key to our success in this World Cup. We are playing great cricket so far. Let’s keep it that way, and maintain a calm mind and an aggressive approach.
I honestly believe that the World Cup will not be far from our grasp, if we keep such points in mind when we play the quarter final game on Saturday. Hopefully, this year will be the one where we bring the Cup home.
Wednesday 18 March 2015
How to Become a Pharmaceutical Consultant
The pharmaceutical industry is generally seen as a stable, lucrative industry, which offers many opportunities in terms of growth and flexibility. Many people have even termed pharmaceutical jobs as ‘recession proof’. The reason for this is that there is never a dearth for people in the industry, no matter what the state of the economy may be.
Having worked in the industry for 20+ years, I can say with confidence that being a pharmaceutical consultant can be a career that most people would enjoy. So here are my tips on becoming a successful consultant for the pharmaceutical industry.
Steps to Becoming a Pharmaceutical Consultant
Having worked in the industry for 20+ years, I can say with confidence that being a pharmaceutical consultant can be a career that most people would enjoy. So here are my tips on becoming a successful consultant for the pharmaceutical industry.
Steps to Becoming a Pharmaceutical Consultant
1. Focus on your Education: A strong educational foundation can go a long way in shaping your career. At the basic level, you need to at least have a background in life science. For your Bachelor’s education, it would be advisable to have a combination of a science major, and a second major like marketing or communications.
There are two benefits to this – the science major will give you the freedom to work in different fields within the pharmaceutical industry. The marketing or communications major will put you in a position to understand the business side of the industry.
If pharmacy is your main goal, then you should look at a course that will help you get registered as a licensed pharmacist. Examples of these can be Bachelor of Pharmacy, Diploma Pharmacy Programs, or MSc in Pharmaceutical Technology. Also, a strong foundation can be of great help if you ever decide to start your own business.
2. Get Work Experience: A pharmaceutical consultant’s job broadly deals with working with clients and creating in-house strategies that can streamline work processes. Understanding the workings of various departments within a pharmacy or a pharmaceutical company is imperative. Depending on the department in which you are offered a job (R&D, sales and marketing, communications, etc.), take the time to create a strong foundation of experience and knowledge. Try to get first-hand experience working in all the different segments of a pharmaceutical company. For example, if you are into R&D, see if you can also get training in marketing and communications. Most companies offer training programs or seminars that can help you. Ensure that you have a minimum of 3 to 4 years of work experience before you make any plans to study further, or move to a different organization.
3. Work to Attain a Management Position: This point is about gaining knowledge and mastering the art of handling store branches, employees, products, marketing strategies, campaigns, etc. Combined with strong technical knowledge, this will also put you in a good position to attract, create, and maintain good relations with clients.
4. Keep Up with Latest Trends and Happenings: Knowledge and experience will certainly help you in your career as a consultant. However, it is extremely important that you keep your eyes and ears open about the latest trends and changes taking place in the industry. This will put you in a stronger position when pitching products and solutions to clients, and convincing them to make changes in their companies.
5. Create a Strong Network: The help of a friend or colleague can go a long way. Ensure you have a good network of contacts within your company and the industry. Take the time to converse with your seniors, peers, as well as professionals and representatives of other organizations. Attend conferences and trade shows; share your knowledge as well as get more information. A strong network will allow you to have the right people on your side as you move ahead in your career.
6. Be Ready for the Long Haul: Even if you have performed all the points mentioned above, your career as a pharmaceutical consultant will require time to take off. Do not get frustrated if things do not work out at first. Keep working and try to find ways to get new projects. Be willing to multi-task, work on multiple projects at a time. This will help you create a strong reputation in the industry, and even help you find new clients.
Passion, dedication, and smart future planning can go long way to establishing your career. A combination of all these points can lead to a strong and stable career as a successful pharmaceutical consultant.
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