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Working within the confines of a small commercial kitchen? Need to maximise your kitchen’s space? Gotcha! Here, discover the secrets of creating a functional kitchen with limited space. Utilise it cleverly! In no time, you’ll be welcoming guests and smashing sales.

Small Commercial Kitchen Spaces – The DownFalls

Small commercial kitchen spaces can be tricky. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Limited workspace: Not enough room to get the job done quickly and with enough staff.
• Storage limitations: Too much stuff on the countertops makes it hard to find what you need quickly.
• Lack of ventilation: Not enough air circulation can trap heat, smoke, and odours, making it uncomfortable and affecting food quality.
• Inadequate equipment placement: Poor placement can disrupt workflow and lead to accidents.
• Sanitation challenges: Overcrowded countertops and waste disposal can cause cross-contamination and bad hygiene.

Other details to consider include building and safety regulations, appliance sizes, the amount of covers you expect to serve, the type of menu that you offer and the equipment needed to produce this. 

Forget about serving large, intricate menus that require every piece of commercial equipment and all of the tools available to produce. Stick with something more stripped back, using appliances that can be used for multiple cooking functions. That doesn’t mean to say that less fanciful menus need to be anything less than exceptional, you just need to make your kitchen work smarter, not harder. 

While working with a limited area isn’t as simple as when space is boundless, transforming your small kitchen into a well oiled machine doesn’t need to cause any major headaches. 

What’s the Answer to Maximising Space?

Maximising space in small kitchens can be tricky. Solutions? Get creative! By working out the basics you require and with a little careful planning there is no reason why your small kitchen can’t work perfectly for you.

Here are five effective points to consider to optimise organisation, improve workflow and guarantee that space is being used to its fullest capacity.

1. Storage shelves and creative storage solutions: Install wall-mounted cabinets or floating shelves to store items like pots, pans & dishes. Also think magnetic strips for knife storage & hanging pot racks from the ceiling.
2. Compact appliances: Invest in compact, performance-focused appliances and smaller slimline freestanding appliances where required. Countertop units are also a great alternative. Consider multi-functional equipment can also help to combine multiple pieces of equipment into one. 
3. Under-counter storage: Consider refrigerated storage drawers designed to support either food preparation surfaces or hot cooking appliances to maximise space and combine cold storage and hot cooking equipment.
4. Multipurpose surfaces: With limited workable surface space, areas need to be accessible for food prep, plating up and for other general tasks. Maintaining organisation and tidying workstations during service is vital to staying in control and having enough room to work. 
5. Create sections: even in small spaces, cooking sections can be utilised to create clear zones between storage, food prep, cooking and pot wash areas.

Organisation & decluttering are key! Keep frequently used items easily accessible & stow away less used ones to maintain a tidy & efficient kitchen. Follow these tips to maximise your small kitchen’s potential & create an awesome cooking area!

Choosing Compact Equipment

Maximising space in small kitchens starts with the right compact equipment. These appliances are designed to take up minimal space but provide maximum function. Options include compact countertop ovens (combination ovens and high speed ovens are great choices for multi-functionality), countertop fryers, fridge and freezer drawers that can be used as additional food prep surface or to support hot appliances, and undercounter dishwashers to guarantee that dinnerware can be hygienically cleaned ready for the next service. Pick equipment that meets your needs with regards to size, power and performance and fits your kitchen layout.

When selecting compact equipment, size matters. Find appliances specifically designed for small kitchens that fit your available space. Consider capacity and features too. Look at energy efficiency ratings, multi-functional appliances, and more.

Further Content:

• The #1 Material That Every Catering Kitchen Uses
• Sitey – Commercial Double Sinks

If you’re making changes to your car, you may want to alter the colours used in the interior of your car. Or if you’re choosing the specification of your new vehicle, you may need to make a decision between a light interior or a dark interior; both have their advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we take a look at both options so you can make the right choice for your vehicle. 

Light interior pros

There are some advantages of having a light car interior; firstly, they give your car a more airy and spacious feel. When you get inside, you won’t feel as enclosed, and the cabin can actually feel bigger as a result of the interior colour. Another fantastic advantage if you live in a very hot country is a light interior won’t get as hot as a dark one. Dark leather seats can become very warm when a car is left in the sun, so much so they can even burn your skin or be uncomfortable when you sit down without protection over your legs. If you often find this is an issue when you’ve had a dark interior in the past, it might be better to consider a light-coloured car cabin. In addition to feeling more spacious and cooler in the hot weather, light interiors can look more classy and luxurious in high-end vehicles. They also tend to be less common, which makes the car look unique and luxurious.

Light interior cons

There are some significant disadvantages of light interiors that might make them unsuitable for your needs. One of the main disadvantages is they attract dirt and debris much quicker than dark interiors. A tiny bit of mud or spillage on the seats will immediately show up and can make your car look untidy. Light-coloured seats and flooring needs to be cleaned much more frequently than darker colours to keep the car looking good. Keeping the interior of your car clean can be expensive if you pay for regular valets; if you do it yourself, it’s time-consuming and physically demanding. If you have a dog or children, the maintenance for light-coloured interiors might be too high as they’ll need cleaning frequently. You may also pay more for a light-coloured interior as it’s often considered a premium option in many vehicles. 

Dark interior pros

There are some considerable advantages of a dark car interior; firstly, they’re much easier to clean and don’t show up dirt as quickly. Your car will look like new for longer, and you have to worry less about the odd spillage. Secondly, modifications such as aftermarket racing steering wheels tend to come in darker colours; this gives you more opportunity to personalise your vehicle. In addition, they tend to be cheaper or the standard option on most cars; this means you can save money by opting for the dark interior. Finally, many people think that dark interiors look more sporty and stealthy compared to light interiors, which look more classy and luxurious.

Dark interior cons 

Despite all of the advantages, there are some disadvantages to a dark interior. The main disadvantage is they get much warmer in hot weather. When you get into your car in the heat without clothing on your legs, you might find the seat really uncomfortable until it has cooled down. The good thing is that most aircon systems will soon cool down the car and make the seats more bearable. In addition, some people think dark-coloured interiors are more dreary and less open than lighter alternatives; the vehicle will probably feel slightly smaller with a dark interior compared to a light version.

In conclusion, both light and dark car interiors have their own advantages and disadvantages. Light interiors are more airy and spacious, but they show dirt more easily and can be more expensive. Dark interiors are easier to clean and look more sporty, but they can get hot in the summer. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs, such as your climate, lifestyle, and personal style. Consider all of these factors before making a decision about which type of car interior is right for you.

If you’ve decided to lease your property, or even multiple properties, you may be wondering what you can do to be a responsible landlord. After all, it is no secret that landlords get a bad rap. However, there are numerous things you can do to crush the stereotypes and be a responsible, professional proprietor – not only for the health and well-being of your tenants but for your own reputation and peace of mind. From maintaining safe living standards to sourcing reputable craftspeople, here is how you can be a good landlord.

Run Background Checks

Being selective about your tenants means making informed decisions based on character references and information from previous landlords. Ensuring your tenants will be responsible and respectful to your property will help to mitigate financial risk and ensure your property is protected from damage due. You are also entitled to ask prospective tenants to provide bank statements as proof of income and rent payments. That said, avoiding discrimination is also crucial – landlords cannot refuse tenants or treat them differently based on race, religion, national origin, gender, familial status, or disability.

Be Friendly And Approachable

A friendly, approachable landlord makes all the difference. If you are leasing your property via a letting agent, take the time to introduce yourself to all new tenants to ensure they are happy and comfortable. Provide them with your contact details and let them know they can contact you with any issues 24/7. Additionally, remember that some of your tenants may be physically and/or mentally vulnerable. As such, you should demonstrate tact and empathy, all the while remaining professional. 

Perform Repairs Promptly

There is nothing worse than having an ongoing issue with your rental property. Your tenants deserve to live in a pleasant, functional environment. Hence, repairs and maintenance work should be performed promptly and efficiently. Being a landlord is a full-time, round-the-clock job, meaning you should remain contactable at all times. Suppose you know you will be unreachable for a prolonged period; for example, you have a holiday booked. In that case, you should inform your tenants and provide them with numbers and email addresses for individuals they can contact in your absence. 

Fire Safety

The importance of fire safety cannot be understated. According to UK law, landlords are required to install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of their properties. Similarly, under the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022, each property should have a carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a fixed combustion appliance – such as a gas boiler or wood-burning stove. Furthermore, your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms should be checked regularly to ensure they are fully operational. 

Electrical Safety

Landlords are legally required to obtain a valid landlord electrical safety certificate (EICR report) for each rental property they own. This safety certificate ensures the safety of light fittings, plug sockets, electrical wiring and fuse boxes. It will also outline observations affecting safety and improvement recommendations, such as the need for cable containment systems or wiring that doesn’t meet the latest regulations. Once obtained, you must also supply a copy of this certificate to your local housing authority within seven days and a copy to any new tenants. 

Gas Safety

Unchecked and poorly maintained gas appliances pose a potentially lethal risk to your tenants. According to The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 (GSIUR), landlords must organise for a registered engineer to perform gas safety inspections once per year in each of their properties. They must also provide their tenants with a copy of the record of the inspection certificate. The purpose of these annual inspections is to ensure that fittings and flues provided for tenants are safe and functional. 

Get Landlord Insurance

Although it may be an extra cost, landlord insurance is a worthwhile investment, as it provides financial protection against numerous risks, such as property damage, loss of rental income, and potential legal actions initiated by tenants. Tenants wishing to seek legal action against landlords for reasons such as injuries sustained on the property or allegations of discrimination could be entitled to financial compensation. However, these claims are not always founded in truth. Landlord insurance will protect you from being wrongfully sued due to liability claims. 

Making the decision to up sticks and move house can be an overwhelming choice with much to consider. While the process of moving can be exhausting, beginning a new chapter in a new home can be profoundly exciting. However, there is never a “good time” to move – from family difficulties to financial setbacks, there will always be something that can be used as an excuse to stay put for the time being. That said, there are numerous telltale signs that now is the time to start searching for your dream home. Read on to find out more. 

You’re Current Home Feels Cramped

If your current home feels cramped or empty, it may be worth looking for a property better suited to your needs. While your existing home may have been ideal when you first moved in, your situation might have changed since. For instance, you may have started a family or accumulated many more possessions, making space decidedly limited. Furthermore, upgrading to a larger property may now be financially viable for you and your family. 

Conversely, perhaps you’re in a situation where your family is now smaller than it once was – maybe your children have flown the nest, and there is no need for a large property, in which case, downsizing could save you a great deal of money. 

The Local Area Isn’t Suited To Your Needs

Choosing the right area for you and your family can be a tricky decision. While many of us would love to live somewhere rural and idyllic, a lack of local amenities can be troublesome, particularly when you decide to start a family. Examine your long-term goals and aspirations and consider whether or not your current location is suitable. For instance, are there local schools, shops and public transport links? 

On the other hand, if local amenities are low on your list of priorities, you may be eager to move somewhere altogether quieter and more isolated. 

You Want To Be Closer To Friends/Family

As time passes, your priorities inevitably change. While you may have once been perfectly happy having to travel to visit family and friends, living apart from your loved ones will take its toll. You might want to move closer to ageing relatives so you can provide help when needed, even if that means delivering groceries or taking care of household chores. Moving closer to family may also benefit your own children, as forming bonds with relatives is a critical aspect of childhood development. 

You’ve Been Offered A New Job

Accepting a new job in a different area is one of the most common reasons for moving house. If a lengthy commute isn’t a sustainable option, it may be worth moving closer to your place of employment. However, relocating your family for the purpose of your own career can be a complex endeavour – you must consider the wants and needs of your household members before accepting your new position, as taking your loved ones away from their own jobs, schools, and friends may lead to conflict. That being said, moving to a new town or even a new country can be an incredible experience for all involved. 

You Want To Experience Another Country/Culture

Moving to a new country and experiencing a new culture can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences. However, locating houses for rent in other countries can be complicated, so plenty of research is always advisable. There are also other factors to consider, such as visa requirements, language barriers, tax obligations and healthcare options. However, if you’re up for the challenge, moving abroad could be one of the best decisions you will ever make. 

You Want A Big Change

Your reason for moving house could be as simple as wanting a significant change in your life. If your current circumstances feel stale and repetitive, moving house could be the catalyst for change. A new location may open up numerous opportunities, such as meeting new people, learning new skills and discovering your dream property. While moving house can be expensive and complicated, settling into a property you truly love is one of the most rewarding things you can do. That said, don’t be hasty – evaluate your options and ensure you are making the right decision before making any commitments. 

Learn More:

• Apartment To Rent In Hong Kong
• How To Save Money While Living Abroad

Car insurance is something that’s often not given much thought by many people, until the point where they need to make a claim. Many people choose to go for the cheapest provider to minimise their monthly or yearly outgoings. However, this isn’t always the best approach. In this article, we look at the importance of choosing the right car insurance and what factors you should consider before making your choice.

Price

Price is one of the factors that many people base their decision on when choosing car insurance. However, companies often use tactics to make them look cheaper than competitors, but when you add on the extras you need, you could end up paying more or a similar price. When looking at the cost of different providers, you should note what that cost includes and the price of the extra add-ons; extras could include windscreen cover, breakdown cover and protected no claims. For a true comparison, select all the extras you need, then look at the price difference. Many people also choose to select auto-renew on their car insurance policy so that it continues to be in place each year. If you choose to do this and don’t shop around each year to see the other options available, you may end up paying much more than you need to pay. Providers will increase the cost each year, hoping you will stick with them anyway to avoid the hassle of moving your insurance. Even a quick call to your current provider can help you save money on your renewal cost. 

Courtesy cars

If you need your car to get you to work and back or to take your kids to school, a courtesy car is a must-have on your insurance policy. If anything happens to your car and it needs to go in for repairs, you can use a car that the insurance company provides whilst you wait for yours to be fixed. Many insurance companies offer this as standard, but not everyone; make sure you check the details before signing up to see if a courtesy car is included and if there are any time restrictions or qualifiers in place to enable you to access a courtesy car when needed. 

Specialist policies 

You may not realise that performance cars and supercars need specialist insurance policies to cater to car owners’ needs. If you’re looking at performance cars for sale, make sure before you commit that you’re able to get insurance through a specialist provider that is willing to cover a car of such high value. These specialist policies will go into more detail about your lifestyle and how you use the car to ensure the insurance is fit for your needs. In addition, unlike many other car insurance policies, they will agree with you on how much money you will get back if the supercar is written off. This will impact how much you pay for your insurance premium. Most supercar insurance policies don’t cover the car’s entire value, as the insurance cost would be far too expensive. If you try to get insurance through a standard company, you’ll probably find they will class the car as non-standard and won’t provide you with insurance. 

Reviews and previous customer experience

If you have an accident and need to claim on your insurance, the last thing you need is a company you can’t get hold of or one unwilling to pay out for your vehicle. Dealing with the sales team and the claims team of insurance companies is often very different, and you may not realise how poor the customer experience is until you are in need of help. To prevent adding more frustration to a stressful time, you should look up the reviews of different car insurance companies. These will show you which companies are recommended and the ones you should avoid. You can also speak to family and friends that have had to make a claim with their insurance in the past; this will give you an idea about which insurers were helpful and which should be avoided. 

Before you select the cheapest car insurance when it’s time to renew, consider the points above and do some research to ensure that the insurer will be helpful and payout if you need to claim. 

Writing a will is one of the most important things you will do in your lifetime. Writing a legally valid will ensures that your money and estate are distributed according to your instructions following your death. Failure to do so will result in your assets being dealt with according to intestacy rules, which, while as fair as possible, may not align with your preferences. However, writing a will can be an overwhelming and often unpleasant experience for some. Furthermore, there is a great deal of legal jargon to decode. If you’re eager to make a start on your will, here is a list of all parties involved in the process.

The Testator

In terms of writing a will, the “testator” refers to the writer in question. To make a valid will, the testator must be of sound mind and body. In other words, the testator must have the mental capacity to understand their actions and be able to provide informed consent to or refusal free from the influence of others. Additionally, they must be at least 18 years old in most jurisdictions.

When writing their will, the testator must outline their wishes regarding their property and assets after their death, including who receives what and when – this may include partners, children, other relatives, friends and charities. The testator is responsible for ensuring their will is clear, comprehensive and, most importantly, valid in the eyes of the law. 

The Witnesses

UK law states that a will is only valid if it is signed in the presence of two witnesses, who must also sign it. Witnesses play a crucial role in confirming that the testator is voluntarily signing the will and mentally capable of doing so. They also testify that the will is the authentic and original document of the testator. In the UK, witnesses must be 18 or over and of sound mind. It is also worth noting that will witnesses must not be related to the testator, nor should they have any personal interest in the will. Moreover, the testator cannot leave their witnesses (or their married partners) anything in their will.

The Executor

The executor is the individual responsible for carrying out the wishes of the deceased as outlined in their will. The testator can appoint anybody they wish, such as a friend or family member, although it should be noted that being a will executor of a loved one can be a draining and upsetting job. Nevertheless, the testator should appoint somebody they trust to take on such significant responsibilities, including:

• Taking care of the deceased’s funeral and burial arrangements.
• Compiling the assets and debts of the deceased.
• Settling the debts and taxes owed by the deceased.
• Allocating the assets of the deceased to the beneficiaries as outlined in the will.

The Beneficiaries

Plainly speaking, beneficiaries are people explicitly named in the testator’s will – these individuals or organisations will typically receive money, possessions or other assets. Failure to write a valid will generally result in the deceased having died “intestate”, meaning their assets will be distributed according to intestacy rules, which may not align with their wishes. For example, if the deceased was married or in a civil partnership and had no children, their entire estate would go to their spouse or civil partner.

However, the execution of a will is not always as straightforward as those involved would prefer. In some cases, missing beneficiary indemnity insurance may be required. MBI protects the executor of an estate from claims by beneficiaries who were not named in the will.

Next Of Kin

The next of kin is typically defined as the deceased’s spouse, children, parents and siblings – in that order. Under the rules of intestacy, if there is no surviving next of kin, the deceased’s assets will pass to half-siblings, grandparents, uncles and aunts (then their children), half-uncles, half-aunts (then their children), and eventually, the crown. Any disputes will be handled and resolved by the court. In some cases, the court may play a role in distributing the estate’s assets. For instance, if the will designates assets to a minor next of kin, the court might appoint a guardian to oversee and manage those assets until the child is of age (18).

Spring has well and truly sprung – the days are getting longer, the weather is getting milder, and the world suddenly seems that little bit brighter. One of spring’s great joys is the sheer amount of incredible seasonal produce available. Many food and wine enthusiasts look forward to classic springtime dishes bursting with flavour and freshness. If you want a taste of spring, consider the following recipe ideas and wine pairing to make the most of this beautiful time of year. 

Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb

Lamb is synonymous with spring. Every easter dinner table features lamb of some variety, whether it’s in the form of braised lamb chops or Moroccan lamb tagine. However, a herb-crusted rack of lamb truly is a showstopper. Featuring the heady aromas of lemon, parsley, rosemary and thyme, this succulent lamb dish is the ideal pièce de résistance for a springtime feast, best served alongside buttery mash, roasted spring greens, or even garlicky white bean puree. A medium-to-full-bodied Bordeaux red will complement your lamb without overpowering it. 

Spring Veg Risotto

During March, April and May, vitamin C-packed spring veggies like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, leek and peas are at their sweetest. Make the most of fresh, seasonal produce by preparing a crisp, spring vegetable risotto. The best way to balance the delicate sweetness of spring veg is with lemon, mint and a healthy glug of Trebbiano Spoletino or any other bright, aromatic white wine. Cut your spring vegetables into similar-sized pieces and add them to your risotto towards the end of the cooking process for a subtle crunch with maximum flavour. Enjoy alongside a chilled glass of your favourite Italian white. 

Wild Garlic Pesto

If you’re curious about foraging, wild garlic is an excellent place to start. Relatively foolproof, wild garlic is easily identifiable due to its pungent oniony, garlicky aroma – and it tastes just as good as it smells. You can use wild garlic as an ingredient for soups and salads, although arguably, the best way to enjoy its flavour is by mashing it into a pesto sauce along with grated parmesan, lemon, pine nuts and olive oil. Keep in mind that wild garlic is sometimes mistaken for the highly poisonous lily of the valley, although when in flower, the plants are easily distinguishable from each other. Furthermore, lily of the valley does not have the characteristic scent associated with wild garlic. 

Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is another excellent dish for highlighting the fresh, natural sweetness of spring vegetables. While this dish is famous for its rich, creamy sauce with lashings of parmesan cheese, you can swap the heavy cream for crème fraîche and a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for a lighter, healthier alternative. For the veg, consider young broad beans, asparagus and any other seasonal vegetables you can get your hands on. Garnish your dish with an assortment of freshly chopped herbs such as basil, mint, parsley and chives. Flavourful pasta dishes like pasta primavera pair well with crisp, acidic wines like Riesling, Soave or Sauvignon Blanc. 

Baked Rainbow Trout

Sweet, fresh, aromatic flavours are quintessential of seasonal spring produce, and you can’t get much fresher than perfectly cooked rainbow trout. You can purchase freshly caught rainbow trout at most local fishmongers, although The River Wye in the Derbyshire Peak District is the best location for wild, freshwater trout fishing. Bake your whole, gutted rainbow trout with fresh dill, thyme, salt, pepper and thick slices of lemon for no longer than 20 minutes so it retains its sweet, delicate flavour. Serve your baked trout alongside a fresh green salad, crushed new potatoes and a cool climate white like Chablis. 

Pea And Watercress Soup

Soup may seem like a cold-weather dish; however, a light yet comforting soup on a mild spring evening can be truly sublime. Sharp, peppery watercress is the perfect match for sweet green peas – a veg we all have on hand in the freezer. This vibrant, nutritious soup can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect weekday lunch or dinner. Garnish your delicious soup with another sprinkle of fresh watercress and earthy pea shoots, and serve alongside a thick slab of crusty bread. In terms of wine, a high-quality Burgundy Chardonnay is the ideal accompaniment to light, peppery watercress-based dishes. 

Taking a gap year before moving on to university or entering the world of work can be an incredibly rewarding experience you’ll never regret. Generally speaking, gap years are taken after school and before university, but many postgraduate students choose to take a gap year before moving onto a postgraduate course or applying for a job in their chosen field. A gap year is considered a period of self-discovery, where you can think seriously about your future and experience the world while you are young and full of energy. Here are just some of the reasons you should consider taking a gap year. 

Travel

Travelling is one of the most common ways young people spend their time during a gap year. Unsurprisingly, money is often tight for students; as such, you must be selective and strategic about your travel plans. Many students are able to travel on a budget by backpacking in affordable locations like Bulgaria or Thailand. Alternatively, you could work as you travel – there are countless opportunities for short-term employment abroad, ideal for gap year travels.

Save Money

Being a student can be expensive. Between paying for accommodation and course-related expenses, it’s easy to see why so many students struggle for cash. However, you can make your university experience a little easier by saving up during your gap year. If you get a job in the same city as your future university, you may even be able to continue with part-time employment as you study. For the time being, work hard and save up as much as possible. 

Volunteering

Volunteering for a worthy cause can be exceptionally gratifying, granting you new skills and fresh perspectives. For instance, you could sign up for a wildlife conservation project or travel abroad and help indigenous communities by expanding water and sanitation services. You could even volunteer for a project that aligns with your career/study prospects. For example, if you’re eager to study history, you could volunteer at a local museum and gain valuable work experience. 

Work Experience

As mentioned above, work experience can be profoundly helpful for expanding your CV, making it more appealing to future employers. Unpaid work experience shows that you are eager to learn and grow professionally, demonstrating your potential as a fully-fledged employee. Many career paths recruit employees based on experience as well as qualifications. While it may seem like a catch-22 – needing experience for a job but requiring a job for experience – unpaid work experience is often the answer. 

Career Coaching

Career coaching could give you that vital shot in the arm you need to pursue your ambitions with confidence and success. Career coaching services provide unbiased, one-on-one advice and feedback to help you form realistic goals and reach your full potential. You could even book consultations while travelling or working abroad; for example, you could pursue career coaching in Singapore, a country with one of the most stable economies and the lowest unemployment rates in the world. 

Learn A Valuable Skill

A gap year could provide you with enough downtime to learn a new skill that may prove helpful to your future career. For instance, you could learn a language, opening up the possibility of working abroad. Alternatively, you could learn a skill you’ve always wanted to master but have, thus far, not had the time due to studying; for instance, a musical instrument, painting, coding or a physical sport. 

Reflect And Relax

Many students take a gap year to rest and recuperate before moving on to the next significant chapter of their lives. Studying can be remarkably stressful, so it’s easy to understand why a break might be in order. If so, use your gap year to have some fun while you’re still young and able. Spend time with friends and family, have fun and make lifelong memories before dedicating your time to buckling down and giving university your all. 

Move Out

Moving out can be a complex and arduous process. If you’re leaving for university, it may be worth moving in advance so you can put down some roots and get yourself used to the local area before focusing on your course. Moving out for the first time can also be emotionally draining, so you want to be absolutely sure you’re ready for the process in case it affects your ability to study. 

Should you take a gap year? Ensure you research your options thoroughly before making any decisions. You can read more about gap years here.