Robert's blog

Networking

Networking. That dreaded word. When we think of networking, we think of reaching people. It can be tough. It can be nerve racking. However, it is a must if you want to be able to find a job. This blog will explore the advantages of networking, and why it is important to expand it.

We all hear of how it is important to have your own network in order to get into the job market. However, why is it so important?

How to Network

Networking is a great way to connect with people. To make this easier, you can start by connecting with your friends and family. A simple way of connecting to people is through Linkedin. Linkedin is a social media platform that focuses on the job market. It is a great tool to meet new employers, and potentially get jobs that are not advertised. On your profile, write in your information as you would on a resume. Afterwards, you should connect with companies that you are interested in. Just look them up over Linkedin. If you find a job post that you are interested in, contact the person in charge of writing. Once there, write a brief message that you are interested in the position, and that you would like to schedule an appointment to further discuss your skills and benefits. If they answer great! If not, don’t panic! Just try to contact other employers. The important is that you try even though it can be discouraging at times should tyou not receive any feedback. However, it is important to carry on because you never know.

Another effective way to network is by attending networking events. There, you will have the opportunity to connect with potential employers. It is also a good way to develop new skills. To find an networking event near you, just google networking events, and you should be able to find one that will benefit you.

Overall, networking is essential to success because it is an inclusive way to find a job. Sometimes, ads may not be seen. In fact, only a tiny portion of job positions are advertised, meaning there are job positions available, but are not out.

So get yourself going, and start networking! Good luck on your future endeavours!!

Until my next blog post, take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blogger

Travelling and Getting out of Your Comfort Zone

Recently, this reader went on his first solo trip ever. That place is Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Let me tell you that if you have never been to Vancouver, you must go! Honestly, it is a beautiful city located on Canada’s west coast. The gorgeous mountains that can be seen from downtown Vancouver will make you go awe!

Arriving from Vancouver International Airport, the most efficient way to get to downtown Vancouver is by the sky train. It takes about 20-25 minutes, a single fare costs $3, and the train comes directly to the airport. No need to hop into taxi, nor a uber.

My trip consisted on zip-lining through the mountains of Whistler, taking a helicopter tour over Grouse Mountain, walking over the Capilano Suspension bridge, and biking through Stanley park.

Whistler

This gorgeous town north of Vancouver is perhaps well known for hosting some of the games during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Whistler village is right along the Blackcomb Mountain that provides little boutique shops and restaurants. There are plenty of activities to do in the village, including taking the lift up to the top of Blackcomb Mountain. This blogger highly recommends travelling to Whistler Village because it is for sure to be a great time, especially for those that love the mountain landscape.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Only a 20 minute drive from downtown Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is a must for those that love an adventure. It has a lot of history, given that it was originally a First Nations name (Kia’palano). Since becoming a tourist attraction in 1983, it is a popular destination for tourists. The bridge is located 230 feet above the river. Although it appears scary is it wobbles, it is enjoyable to cross, and the park makes this destination, an adventure to remember.

Grouse Mountain

Just up from the Capilano Suspension bridge park, Grouse Mountain has lots of activities to offer. Once going to the top by a lift, the mountain offers activities including (but not limiting to) mountain biking, zip-lining, and of course a helicopter tour. The helicopter tour was although only eight minutes long, it provided views of the mountain that you will not see anywhere else. My experience with the helicopter tour was a spontaneous one as I only discovered that the mountain offered helicopter tours when arriving. I knew immediately that I wanted to do this, and therefore booked a tour. It was an rewarding expering to go on a helicopter, and would love to have an opportunity to go on one again.

Stanley Park

After renting a bike for the day with travellers that I have met just the night before, we descended to Stanley park. It was awesome riding around the base of the park which provided views of the mountains over Vancouver, and got the chance to relax on the beach. It is a wonderful place to spend the day with leaving the city. Attractions in the park including the Vancouver aquarium, and many trails that stretches for a few kilometers.

Travelling Solo

Travelling on your own is a great way to get of your comfort zone since you are on your own, and must rely on strangers to help you get around. However, most of the people that you will encounter are kind hearted people, and you should not have trouble getting by as long as you know the city and country that you’re visiting. At first, it felt odd to be by myself since this was my first time, but I got used to it, made new friends along the way, and it was great to be away from the everyday routine back at home.

Staying in a Hostel may seem awkward because you have to share a room with random people. However, most of the people that are staying at the Hostel are travellers like you, and are very friendly. There are activities that Hostels usually offer (at least mine did) which is a great way to meet and interact with new people.

It feels good to be back writing blogs after a summer break, and looking forward to writing more.

Until new blog post, Take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blogger

Montreal Grand Prix

On a previous blog, I wrote on the various summer festivities that go on in Montreal. Well, with next weekend being grand prix weekend, I thought I would share my view on the festivities and why it is always a great time.

History

The Canadian Grand Prix has been taking place on Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Ile Notre-Dame since 1978. It has only been cancelled twice since then, in 1987 and in 2009. The race attracts thousands of race fans from Montreal, as well as from people all over the world. Montreal will continue to host the Canadian Grand Prix for at least the next ten years.

Since Montreal hosts the event every year, it is a popular venue for the city. There are bars and shops that have the race track flags up to coincide with the annual event. The Grand Prix can also be seen as the beginning of the summer season in Montreal.

Grand Prix flags flying over Sir Winston Churchill Pub on Crescent to coincide with the race.

Grand Prix Festivities

The festivities is not just restricted to the circuit, but there are also events that coincide with Grand Prix as well. Several streets are closed to traffic as festivities take place. Crescent street has hosted grand prix festivities since 1999. It hosts a huge party that goes on all day and into the night. Attending the festivities on Crescent is for sure to bring in a good time. There are also grand prix festivities on nearby Peel street.

The best (in my opinion) is going on St. Laurent in little Italy. The street is closed to traffic during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend as kiosks, stands, and old vintage cars takes over.

Having gone every year since 2013, I have always enjoyed the atmosphere, food, and walking up and down St. Laurent to look at the different cars that are displayed, and enjoying lunch at their pizzerias.

Overall, the Canadian Grand Prix will guarantee a great time because it brings people together, and it is interesting to see the different types of cars and shops. Even if you are not into cars, there is live music (especially on Crescent street), and you can take advantage of sales going on at various kiosks on St. Laurent.

If you are planning on going to festivities, have a great time and stay safe!

Until my next blog post, take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blooger

Summer in Montreal

Ah summer. A time to step outdoors, and to enjoy the warm sun. It is also a time to go to the beach or enjoy the many happenings that go on in your hometown. For this week’s blog, I will go through the events that go on in Montreal, Canada.

There are so many festivals that go on in Montreal throughout the summer that I will go through the most popular ones.

Grand Prix

The grand prix formula takes place on the Gilles Villeneuve race track on Ile Notre-Dame (just south of Montreal). It usually takes place during the second weekend of June, and is seen as the beginning of the summer season. Although the grand event takes place on Ile Notre-Dame, there are plenty of festivities that go on throughout the city. In Little Italy, St. Laurent street is closed to traffic between Beaubien and Jean-Talon streets as the street is filled with vintage cars, and little boutique kiosks that sells Italian food, and clothes. Being at the festival in previous years, Little Italy is the place to be during grand prix weekend.

There are also festivities going on in downtown Montreal. Crescent street is known as a party street due to the many pubs and nightclubs that are on that street. During Grand Prix weekend, Crescent street is closed to traffic as there are many performances from top bands which turns Crescent street into party central.

This year’s Grand Prix festivities takes place from June 7-9.

There will be a upcoming blog on the Montreal Grand Prix, and how it brings everyone together so stay tuned.

Francofolies

The francofolies brings many francophone artists around the world to celebrate the french culture. If you are interested in francophone culture, then the Francofolies is the place for you. This years edition takes pace from June 14-22.

Jazz festival

The Montreal jazz festival is very popular in Montreal. Since it first launched in 1980, the jazz festival brought in several jazz musicians such as Oscar Peterson, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin. If you are a big fan of jazz, it is a great opportunity to hear great jazz. Even if jazz is not your prefered music genre, you might want to check it out just to see why the jazz festival is a yearly success. This year’s event will take place from June 27 to July 6.

Just for laughs

The just for laughs festival brings in comedians from around the world. There are shows that take place each night. It takes place at the Quartier des Spectacles.

Osheaga

Osheaga is a outdoor concert venue takes place in early August. It is a party festival that attracts tens of thousands of people. Osheaga features various artists. Click here for more information on this year’s lineup. This year’s edition will take place from August 2nd to August 4th.

Italian week

Ah, Italian week. A cultural event where the Italian culture takes over Montreal. Italian festivals take place in various neighborhoods across Montreal. The most notable one is in Little Italy. Like the Grand Prix, St. Laurent Boulevard is closed to pedestrians during the last 3 days of the festival. It is a great place to get exposed to Italian culture. It offers various activities for everyone. Italian week will take place this year from August 9th to the 18th.

The many festivals of Montreal is for sure going to bring a good time. Take advantage of these summer activities as before you know, we will back to keeping ourselves hibernating in the winter.

Until my next blog post, take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blogger

Autism Awareness

Welcome to April. A month where we can expect warmer weather, and a transition from winter to summer. April also marks Autism Awareness Month. This week’s blog will focus on autism, and why there must be awareness of this neurological condition.

What is Autism Awareness Month?

Autism awareness month coincides with autism awareness day on April 2nd (which explains why I have postponed this release to today as opposed to yesterday). It began in 2007, and was selected by the United Nations. The purpose of this occasion is to help raise awareness of people on the autism spectrum, and that they have their own potential to succeed, just like everyone else.

The Different Types of Autism

Although the latest edition of the diagnostic model puts the term “Autism Spectrum Disorder” to anyone who has the symptoms, autism can be divided into two categories, mild and severe.

Mild: People that have a mild form of autism are usually very bright, yet they have difficulty in socializing. They would usually have a specific interest (ex. the human body), and would have an extensive knowledge of that subject. They are also capable of living independent lives. Although they are usually very smart, their communication skills are very poor, and therefore have a hard time socializing. Examples of syndrome’s in this category includes Asperger’s Syndrome.

Severe: People with severe autism, not only lack communication skills, but there level of IQ is below average, and they are unable or will have a very hard time to live independent lives. They are likely to have difficulty with their speech, and even when they reach adulthood, there are likely to still have a mentally of a little child. They also have difficulty doing basic everyday things like going to the bathroom or getting dressed.

Robert’s View on Autism

Autism people are unique individuals, and are the most kindest people you are likely to meet. Growing up on the autism spectrum (Asperger’s Syndrome), I know what it’s like to be “different” from everyone else.

It can be tough to fit in with other people. It is like your brain is telling you “Don’t talk to that person” or “Don’t say anything”. In my experience, the best part of being different is that a lot of people like me probably because of my kindness. The worst part of being different is that people might feel misguided towards me. People might see me as being more sensitive than I am already am. Another disadvantage is that might think that I am ditzy or eccentric, and therefore may have a hard time communicating with me.

It is important to know that autistic people have feelings, regardless of who they are. Autistic people will react to different situations in their own way. Although they may have a different way of approaching situations, they end up achieving the same results as anyone else would.

There will be no blog next week as I have a final project that is due on Monday, and will take up much of my time. I apologize for the inconvenience. Come back in 2 weeks as I will discuss job hunting. Summer is around the corner, and for many students, it means that it is a good time to find a part time job to make more money, and gain experience in the workforce.

Until then, take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blogger

Getting out of our Little Bubble

What would you do if somebody asked you on the spot to go skydiving. Would you do it? Probably not. If someone told you to go on the ground, and start laughing hysterically, would you be up to the challenge? No way! It’s too embarrassing. Well, a few months back, a little birdie introduced me to a Youtube channel that challenges themselves into seeking discomfort such as skydiving, releasing emotions, and going on epic adventures. The youtube channel is called Yes Theory.

It began in 2015 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada as a group of 4 people doing 30 discomforting (but amazing challenges) in 30 days. Since then, they have moved to Los Angeles and has renamed their youtube channel to Yes Theory. They currently have over 3.5 million subscribers and has only continued to grow as interest continues to increase. The objective is to have the world step out of their con

front zone, and to seek discomfort in order to make us better people.

What I love the most out of their channel is that they are willing to go the extra mile to do challenges that people would find very difficult, if not impossible to achieve.

Why we Must Get Out of our Comfort Zone

Everyone has a certain dream they want to achieve. It could be anything from getting a job to traveling the world. We all want to be out there, but there is always something in the way that is telling us, “no”! “No!” That is what I call fear. We tend to let fear get in our way because we are worried that we are going to fail at reaching our goals. We fear about failure.

However, we must surpass that fear, and try because if we don’t, we may regret it forever. So, we should try to overcome our shyness, and ask ourselves, what is the worst that’s going to happen? Am I going to die from it? Although we may fail sometimes, it can only make us stronger. Stand up and try again. Continue until you finally achieve your goals. It can make your life much better if you do not let anything stand in your way.

There are so many challenges that this blogger is doing to seek discomfort. Writing this blog, though it’s been great, it’s an example of me getting out of my comfort zone.

Next Monday marks the beginning of April. April is known as Autism awareness month, and to coincide with it, I will tackle autism, its challenges, and why we must be more understanding towards autistic people.

Until next week, take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blogger

Living With Anxiety

No matter who you are, we all feel anxious sometimes. We all feel that sense of dread in our bodies. When we feel that dread, we tend to feel weak and anxious. For me personally, I feel the tension in my body rising, my legs start to feel numb, and my heart starts to feel heavy. It usually occurs when a negative vibe goes through my brain. It could be that my brain is telling me that something bad is about to happen. Other reasons that I start to feel anxious are when I have to go to work or if I am running late. This week’s blog will tackle the issue of anxiety, and how to cope with it.

Causes of anxiety

There are many reasons why people have anxiety. It can be due to several stress factors such as, meeting up with deadlines, paying bills, recent breakups, a death in the family, or getting laid off from work, to name a few.

Worrying about the future is also another good reason why we feel anxious in our bodies. Here is a list of reasons why we worry about the future.

how our lives will play out
aging of our parents
how our children will turn out
climate change
phobias
political instability
violence
war outbreaks

While it is normal to worry, we shouldn’t let our worries take over our daily lives.

Anxiety Disorders

It is very common to know someone who has an anxiety disorder. Health Canada defines them as, social phobia, specific phobia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. If you feel that you have the symptoms described on the Health Canada site, contact your doctor, physician, or psychologist.

How do I know if I am having anxiety

You are likely to have anxiety when you start thinking about negative or stressful thoughts. You will start to feel nervous and tense in your body.

Although being in a panic is similar to having anxiety, it differs in a sense that when one panics, they feel like they are losing control of themselves. It can be seen as an extended version of anxiety.

Anxiety attacks vs. Panic attacks

There can be some confusion between having an anxiety attack and a panic attack. So here is a more broad definition of what is an anxiety attack vs. a panic attack.

Anxiety attack: Occurs when one reacts to something stressful. One has their heart racing, and may lose shortness of breath. The symptom is short-lived.

Panic attack: It is unpredictable. One who suffers a panic attack fears that they will die, or lose control. One is likely to avoid places where they have experienced a panic attack. Panic attacks can be treatable.

My experience with anxiety

As mentioned at the beginning of my blog, my experience with anxiety is based on feeling this tension in my body. However, for me personally, I tend to feel anxious on a regular basis. You see, I am a nervous person. It seems like I am always on edge, and that a disaster could strike any minute. What I do to calm my nerves is to think happy thoughts. I always try to convince myself that it is all in my head, and that everything is fine. If this is you, feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of the page.

What to do When I Start to Feel Anxious

Although anxiety is something that we all have every now and then, it can be controlled by following these steps.

Sit down
Close your eyes
Take deep breaths
Inhale and Exhale

Repeat this process for a few minutes. After that, you should start to feel more calm and relaxed.

I hope you have learned a thing or two on anxiety, and how to cope with this anxious vibe that goes through our bodies.

If you are a student, then next week’s discussion is one for you. Balancing work and school can be tough with so many interferences from outside forces. Next week, I will point out my opinion on this committed balance, and what you can do make the grade, and continue to receive paychecks.

Until next week, take care and thanks for reading.

Robert Toto

Blogger

Welcome

Continue reading “Welcome”