In recent years, there has been a lot of talk about cancel culture. This term refers to a trend in today's society in which people, often through social media, try to publicly remove or punish those who have said or done something that is considered illegal. offensive or wrong. While this practice may seem well-intentioned, it has also been the subject of criticism and controversy.

How did the culture of cancellation arise?

The cancel culture is rooted in social justice and the fight against oppression. The idea is that by publicly exposing and punishing those who have said or done offensive or discriminatory things, a safer and more just environment can be created for minorities and marginalized groups.

The term "cancel" is said to have first appeared in the 1991 film New Jack City, when one of the characters used the phrase "Cancel this bitch. I'll buy another one." ". However, cancellation is a phenomenon that has been around for a long time under different names, depending on the generation. In the past, for example, it was referred to as "ice law".

In any case, cancel culture as it is known today began to gain popularity on social media in 2017, thanks in part to the #MeToo movement. This movement arose in order to denounce aggression and harassment, as a result of the accusations against the film producer Harvey Weinstein.

The cancel culture has been used in many cases to hold people in positions of power, such as celebrities, politicians, and business leaders, accountable for inappropriate behavior or insensitive comments.

The emergence of cancel culture is also linked to increased awareness of social injustices and the power of marginalized groups. In recent years, there has been increased awareness of issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia, and many people have used social media to demand change in these areas. The cancel culture has become a tool to draw attention to these issues and hold people accountable for their offensive comments and actions.

Issues that arise with cancel culture

The culture of cancellation has generated many controversies and has been the subject of criticism from some sectors of society. Here are some of the most prominent issues surrounding this culture:

1. Limits Free Speech: Cancellation culture has been criticized for limiting free speech, as it can lead people to self-censor for fear of being cancelled. In some cases, it has even led to the censorship of art, literature and other forms of expression.
2. Fosters bigotry: Some people argue that cancel culture encourages bigotry, as it doesn't allow for different ideas and viewpoints to be discussed. Instead of promoting dialogue and constructive debate, cancellation can lead to opinions that do not conform to majority norms being rejected and silenced.
3. Can be used for bullying: Cancel culture has also been criticized for enabling bullying online, as it is often used to target specific people and publicly and aggressively criticize them. This can lead to bullying and harassment, especially if the person targeted is vulnerable or does not have a platform to defend themselves.
4. Lack of Accountability: The cancel culture does not encourage responsibility and accountability, as it is often used to publicly lynch people without allowing them the opportunity to explain or apologize for their actions.
5. Can be inconsistent: Cancel culture has also been criticized for being inconsistent and selective. Often people are singled out and cancel due to behavior or comments that other people have not been punished, which can lead to the perception that the cancellation is unfair and arbitrary.

What alternatives are there to the cancel culture?

While cancel culture has been a means to denounce, confront and visualize bullying, racism and other forms of oppression, it has also unleashed a series of problems that are just as alarming.

Although its defenders consider it an effective tool to combat harmful ideologies, the truth is that the cancellation has fueled intolerance, single thought and violence .

Cancellation is not the solution, as it often focuses on retribution and revenge rather than building more inclusive and tolerant communities. It is as if we are trying to fight violence with more violence, which only perpetuates the problem. Therefore, it is necessary to explore more constructive and effective alternatives to address differences and conflicts without resorting to cancellation.

Constructive dialogue

Instead of canceling or dehumanizing people, you can seek a constructive conversation and dialogue to better understand the opinion or action in question. It is important to listen to and respect different perspectives and have a respectful and open discussion.

For effective conversations and dialogue, it is important to keep a few key points in mind:

1. Active Listening: Active listening means paying attention to what the other person is saying, without judging or interrupting. It's important to take the time to understand her perspective and her motivations, even if you don't agree with her.
2. Empathy: Empathy involves trying to understand another person's feelings and emotions. It's important to empathize with her concerns and opinions, even if you don't share them.
3. Mutual respect: Conversations and dialogue can only be successful if both parties respect each other. It is important not to attack or ridicule the other person's opinions, but to express them clearly and respectfully.
4. Search for solutions : Rather than simply discuss differences, it is important to seek constructive and practical solutions to address the problem at hand. This may involve compromises or changes in the opinions or actions of both parties.

Education and awareness

It is important that people understand the consequences of their words and actions, and are given the opportunity to learn and improve. We must also look for ways to promote education and awareness on sensitive and controversial issues.

Education and awareness can involve different strategies, including:

1. Provide Information: Providing information on sensitive and controversial issues is an effective way to promote education and awareness. This may include information about the historical and social context of an issue, as well as relevant data and statistics.
2. Sensitization: Sensitization involves raising awareness about the importance of a problem and its possible impacts on people. This may involve stories and testimonials from people who have been affected by the issue in question.
3. Formal and informal education : Formal education, such as education in schools and universities, can be an effective tool for promoting education and awareness about sensitive and controversial issues. Informal education, such as the media and social networks, can also play an important role in promoting education and awareness.
4. Training and education : Training and education can help people better understand a problem and develop skills to deal with it effectively. This may include training in effective communication, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills.
5. Promoting diversity and inclusion: Promoting diversity and inclusion is an effective way to promote education and awareness. This may involve promoting the inclusion and diversity in education, industry and society in general.

Responsibility and apology

When someone makes a mistake or offends someone, it's important to take responsibility and offer a sincere apology. Instead of canceling it, the person can be encouraged to take steps to rectify the mistake and prevent it from happening again in the future.

Accountability and apology may involve different strategies, including:

1. Acknowledge responsibility : It is important that the person who has caused harm acknowledges their responsibility for the problem. This involves admitting the mistake and accepting that her action has caused harm to other people.
2. Offer a sincere apology: The apology should be sincere and acknowledge the pain and suffering the action has caused. It must be clear and specific, and it must include a promise to change and to do better in the future.
3. Take steps to make amends: It is important that the person who has caused the harm take steps to make amends for the harm they have caused. This may involve actions such as donating to relevant charities, discussing the issue with relevant experts and activists, and taking steps to address discrimination and bias.
4. Commit to change : The person who has caused the harm must commit to changing their behavior and address the underlying issues that have led to their offensive action. This may involve learning more about the issues, working to challenge your own biases, and behaving in a more inclusive and respectful way.
5. Ask for and accept help: It is important for the person who has caused the harm to ask for and accept the help of others to address the problem. This may involve speaking with subject matter experts, working with relevant activists and organizations, and seeking guidance and support from friends and family.

Positive actions

Instead of focusing on cancellation, you can highlight and promote positive and constructive actions that encourage inclusion and diversity. This can include promoting inclusion and diversity initiatives, celebrating people who have achieved positive things, and promoting positive messages on social media.

Positive actions can involve different strategies, including:

1. Create a supportive community: One of the best ways to combat cancel culture is to create a supportive community that encourages inclusiveness, respect, and constructive dialogue. This may involve creating online groups and forums that address sensitive issues in an open and respectful manner.
2. Create and share positive content : Creating and sharing positive content is an effective way to promote inclusion and diversity. This can involve creating content that celebrates cultural diversity, minority empowerment, gender equality, and social justice.
3. Participate in the fight against discrimination and injustice: Participate in the fight against discrimination and injustice is an effective way to take positive action. This may involve working with charities and activist groups to address issues and promote social change.
4. Supporting Victims: It is important that victims of discrimination and harassment feel supported and protected. Positive actions may include providing emotional and financial support to victims and working to create systems and policies that protect victims from discrimination and harassment.
5. Work on education and skills development: Education and skills development can help people better understand issues and address them effectively. Positive actions may include working on education and skills development in areas such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and cultural diversity. 

We are always going to meet people who have opinions that are different from ours, and although it is true that we cannot accept or support those that harm others, we must learn to tolerate the different ways that exist to see life.

Museums are one of the most important cultural institutions in the world. They are places where works of art, historical and cultural objects, and unique pieces that help us better understand the history and evolution of humanity are housed and exhibited.

Over the centuries, museums have become one of the main tourist attractions in many cities around the world, and some of them have become true cultural icons.

Here we show you some of the most important and impressive museums in the world.

Louvre museum in Paris, France

It is one of the most famous and most visited museums in the world. It is located in the former Louvre Palace, which was built in the 12th century as a fortress and later became a royal residence.

The museum houses one of the most important art collections in the world, including works such as the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Venus de Milo and Liberty leading the people by Eugène Delacroix. Furthermore, the museum building itself is an architectural masterpiece, with a mix of architectural styles ranging from Gothic to modern.

Vatican Museums in Vatican City

This is another museum of great historical and cultural importance. The museum complex houses a collection of art and historical objects that have been collected by the Popes over the centuries.

The museum features a large number of works of art, including frescoes, paintings, sculptures and decorative art objects. The Sistine Chapel, which is part of the Vatican Museums, is famous for its painted ceiling by Michelangelo, depicting the creation of Adam.

Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar

This museum was designed by the architect I.M. Pei, the building boasts impressive architecture and a collection of Islamic art that spans over 1,400 years. The museum exhibits art objects, textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and manuscripts, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain

It is another museum that has been praised for its modern architecture and its collection of contemporary art. The building was designed by Frank Gehry and opened to the public in 1997. The museum houses works by contemporary artists such as Richard Serra, Jeff Koons, and Mark Rothko, and is one of theart museums contemporary in the world.

Oscar Niemeyer Museum in Curitiba, Brazil

The Oscar Niemeyer Museumr is another example of impressive modern architecture. Designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, the museum has a collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as a large number of temporary exhibitions. The building is a popular tourist attraction in the city of Curitiba, Brazil.

British Museum in London, UK

This museum is one of the oldest and most famous museums in the world. It was founded in 1753 and has a collection of more than 8 million objects from around the world. The museum's collection includes pieces from Antiquity, Egyptian artifacts, jewelry and decorative objects, and a large number of historical objects from around the world. Some of the highlights of the British Museum collection include the Rosetta Stone and the friezes from the Parthenon in Athens .

Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia

The Hermitage Museum is one of the largest museums in the world. It was founded in 1764 by Empress Catherine the Great and has more than 3 million pieces of art and historical objects. The museum building is impressive in its own right, with more than 1,000 rooms and a façade that stretches along the Neva River. The Hermitage Museum's collection includes works by artists such as Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Van Gogh.

Soumaya Museum in Mexico City

The Soumaya Museum is one of the newest and most modern museums in the world. It was inaugurated in 2011 and has a collection of more than 66,000 pieces of art that span from pre-Hispanic times to the present. The museum building is an impressive steel and glass structure, designed by Mexican architect Fernando Romero.

Royal Ontario Museum in Canada

This museum has an impressive collection of art and historical objects, around 6 million objects, including Egyptian artifacts, decorative art objects and a large number of Canadian historical objects. . The museum building itself is a popular tourist attraction, with impressive architecture and a large number of temporary exhibitions.

National Museum of Art in Osaka, Japan

It is one of the most important museums in Asia. The museum has a collection of more than 12,000 pieces of art and historical objects, ranging from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's collection includes works by Japanese and Western artists, as well as a large number of artifacts from Japanese culture. The museum building is an impressive structure designed by the Japanese architect Arata Isozaki.

Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, United States of America

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most visited museums in the world. The museum has a collection of more than 2 million objects of art and historical objects, including Egyptian artifacts, Asian art, European art, and American art. The museum building itself is a popular tourist attraction, with impressive architecture and a large number of temporary exhibitions.

Prado National Museum in Madrid, Spain

The museum has a collection of more than 20,000 pieces of art, including works by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. The museum building is an impressive structure designed in the 18th century by the architect Juan de Villanueva in neoclassical style. The Prado is known for being one of the best museums in the world to see European art, especially from the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy

It is one of the oldest and most famous museums in the world. It was founded in 1581 by Francesco I de Medici and has an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque art. The collection includes works by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli, and is considered one of the best collections of Italian art in the world . The museum building is a former government office that was converted into a museum in the 18th century.

National Museum of China in Beijing

It is the largest museum in China and one of the most important museums in Asia. It was founded in 1912 and has a collection of more than a million objects, including Chinese cultural artifacts, art, and historical objects. The museum building is impressive, with architecture that combines traditional Chinese elements with modern design.

Each of these museums has its own unique collection and impressive building. Visiting a museum can be an educational and enriching experience for anyone interested in history, art, and culture. Each of these museums has something special to offer visitors, from Renaissance masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery to Chinese historical artifacts at the National Museum of China.

If you are a lover of horror literature, it is very likely that you have heard of Stephen King, one of the most important and prolific authors of the genre. King has written more than 60 novels and 200 short stories, many of which have become literary classics and have been adapted for film and television.

Stephen King was born in 1947 in Portland, Maine, and began writing at a very young age. After graduating from the University of Maine, he worked as a professor and freelance writer before publishing his first novel, "Carrie," in 1974. The novel was an immediate success and catapulted King to fame.

Throughout his career, King has explored a wide range of subjects, from supernatural monsters to the most mundane fears. His works are often known for their realism and the depth of their characters, as well as his ability to create a chilling environment and maintain the tension throughout the story.

Reading the books of Stephen King can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. In addition to being entertaining, his works can also help us better understand some of humanity's deepest fears and anxieties. By reading about characters facing evil in all its forms, we can learn to deal with our own fears and weaknesses.

In addition, reading is an important activity for our emotional and cognitive well-being. Reading can help us reduce stress, improve our memory and increase our capacity for empathy and understanding . By immersing ourselves in imaginative stories, we can temporarily escape our own lives and experience the world from different perspectives.

What are Stephen King's best books?

The Dark Tower IV: Wizard and Glass - 1997

The fourth book in the Dark Tower series, protagonist Roland Deschain narrates the story of his youth and his first love as he continues his search for The Dark Tower. The story is full of exciting and dangerous adventures in a magical and fascinating world.

On his journey, Roland and his group face dangerous adventures and discover more about the magical world that surrounds them.

Salem's Lot - 1975

The plot revolves around Ben Mears, a writer who returns to his hometown, Jerusalem's Lot, after many years. But he quickly discovers that something sinister and evil is happening in the town, and these events involve the residents of the place. As darkness falls over the town, Ben and a group of survivors fight to stay on their feet and end the curse that has fallen on Salem's Lot.

Carrie-1974

The plot revolves around Carrie White, a teenager who has been ostracized and bullied by her classmates at school. As Ella Carrie discovers that she has telekinetic abilities, she begins to feel more powerful and seeks revenge against those who have treated her badly. But when prom rolls around, things take a sinister and chilling turn.

It is one of Stephen King's most popular books and has been adapted several times to different media.

Pet Sematary - 1983

The plot revolves around the Creed family, who moves to a house on the outskirts of the city with their cat and her children. But when one of his children dies tragically, the father discovers an ancient Indian burial ground in the woods behind his house that seems to have the ability to bring the dead back to life. But he soon discovers that this resurrection comes at a terrifying and dangerous price.

IT - 1986

The plot revolves around a group of childhood friends who reunite in their hometown of Derry, Maine after 27 years to confront an evil presence that has been haunting the town for centuries in the form of a clown named Pennywise.

The Shining-1977

The plot follows Jack Torrance, a writer and recovering alcoholic, who takes a job as a caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel in Colorado, along with his wife and his five-year-old son. But as winter draws in, the hotel's isolation and supernatural forces begin to affect the Torrance family, and Jack begins to lose his sanity.

The Stand-1978

The plot follows a group of survivors after a devastating plague has wiped out most of the world's population. As society collapses, the main characters are faced with a crucial decision: unite and fight for a new beginning, or fall into darkness and madness.

Lisey's Story - 2006

The book follows the story of Lisey Landon, a widow who has lost her husband Scott, a famous writer. As Lisey begins to put her husband's things in order, she is drawn into a dangerous and mysterious world that Scott kept secret during his life. Throughout her journey, Lisey faces dangerous enemies and confronts her own inner demons.

The Institute - 2019

The plot follows Luke Ellis, a child prodigy who is kidnapped and taken to a secret facility known as "The Institute". There, he and other children with special abilities are subjected to experiments and manipulated by a group of unscrupulous people. As Luke discovers the true nature of the Institute, he and the other kids plan a risky escape.

The Outsider - 2018

The plot follows Terry Maitland, a respected baseball coach and high school teacher, who is accused of a horrific crime that appears to have been committed in two places at the same time. Detective Ralph Anderson leads the investigation, but soon realizes there is more at play than meets the eye.

Misery-1987

The plot follows Paul Sheldon, a famous writer who is in a car accident and is rescued by his number one fan, Annie Wilkes. As Paul recovers from his injuries, he realizes that Annie is an obsessive fan who is willing to do anything to make sure Paul writes a novel just for her. Paul finds himself trapped in Annie's house, fighting for his freedom and her sanity as he tries to survive the madness of her captor.

The Long Walk - 1979

The plot follows a group of 100 teenagers who are selected to participate in an event called "The Long Walk", an annual competition where participants must walk without stopping until only one is left standing. The prize for the winner is whatever they want for the rest of their lives, but there's a catch: if the contestants stop to rest or don't keep up a minimum pace of speed, they're eliminated from the contest and executed by armed soldiers.

The Green Mile - 1996

The book tells the story of a prison guard who works on death row at a penitentiary in the 1930s. The plot centers on a prisoner with supernatural abilities that surprise and confuse the guards and other inmates in jail. The book features an exciting mix of drama, mystery, and supernatural elements that keep readers on their toes. The novel was adapted into a successful film and became a classic of contemporary literature.

Gerald's Game - 1992

The book tells the story of a couple, Gerald and Jessie, who decide to spend a weekend in a secluded cabin. The plot turns exciting when Gerald dies suddenly, leaving Jessie handcuffed to the bed with no escape. As time passes, the situation becomes more and more desperate for Jessie as she fights for her own survival.

Today, most peoplework five days a week and eight hours a day. However, have you ever wondered why this is so? What if I told you that there is evidence that a shorter workday could have significant benefits for the health, productivity and general well-being of workers?

The history of the current workday

Before the Industrial Revolution, most workers worked in agriculture and crafts, and their workday was dictated by the rhythm of nature. However, with the advent of factories, workers began to work long hours in inhumane conditions.

It was only after years of struggle that the workers managed to reduce their working hours. In 1817, Robert Owen, an industrialist and social reformer, proposed an 8-hour workday. However, the idea was ignored by most employers. It was only in 1914 that Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company, adopted an 8-hour work day for his employees.

Since then, the 8-hour work day has become the norm in many countries, but some workers still work long hours, and many suffer the negative effects of work overload.

Countries that have tried short work hours

Although the 8-hour workday has become the norm in many countries, some countries have begun to experiment with the short workday. In Sweden, an experiment was carried out in which workers in a nursing home worked only six hours a day instead of eight, and the results were surprising. Workers reported that they were happier, less stressed, and more productive.

In New Zealand, the Perpetual Guardian company experimented with a four-day work shift and found that workers were happier, more engaged, and more productive. The company's founder, Andrew Barnes, even argued that reducing working hours could be the key to increasing the nation's productivity.

The world's largest pilot test was carried out in the United Kingdom involving 61 organisations. The study, carried out by the University of Cambridge, consisted of the implementation of a working day that was 20% less than usual without a decrease in wages, for a period of six months from June of 2022.

The test results showed a significant decrease in stress and illness rates among workers, with 71% of employees reporting less fatigue and 39% stating they were less stressed than at the start of the test.

Most companies maintained full-time productivity targets, and compared to the same period last year, there was a 65% reduction in sick leave and a 57% reduction in the number of employees who quit. In addition, company revenues barely changed during the test period, and even increased marginally by 1.4% on average.

These results were presented in a report to UK lawmakers, and around 92% of the companies that participated in the pilot (56 out of 61) intend to continue with the four-day working day, and 18 companies have confirmed that the change will be permanent.

Impact on the economy

One of the most common arguments against short working hours is that it would have a negative impact on the economy. However, there is evidence that the 4-day workday could have a positive impact on the economy.

First, a shorter work day could reduce absenteeism and employee turnover, potentially saving companies thousands of dollars in hiring and training costs. In addition, a short work day could reduce health care costs and improve the mental and physical health of workers, which could reduce sick leave costs.

Second, a shorter work day could increase productivity. Workers who work long hours can experience fatigue and a lack of motivation, which can affect their productivity. A shorter workday could allow workers to recover and return to work more focused and energized. In addition, a short work day could reduce stress and anxiety in workers, which could improve their cability to make decisions and solve problems.

Third, a shorter work day could boost the economy. If workers have more free time, they are more likely to spend their money on recreation and consumption, which could stimulate the local and national economy.

In short, there are many reasons why a short working day could be beneficial for workers, companies and the economy in general. While there is some resistance from some employers and politicians, it's important to consider the long-term benefits of a shorter workday.

What are the pros and cons of a short workday?

It is important to note that the pros and cons may vary depending on the context and the specific implementation of the short working day. In addition, some of the cons can be mitigated or solved with good planning and communication between the company and the employees. In general, the implementation of a short working day can have a positive impact on the health, well-being and productivity of employees, but it can also require a process of adaptation and adjustment in the company and in the labor market in general.

How can a short working day be implemented?

Implementing a short work day is not easy and requires careful planning and an effective strategy. Here are some recommendations for implementing a short workday effectively:

Communication

It is important to clearly communicate the reason behind the implementation of a short working day and its benefits for workers and the company. It is important to involve workers in the decision-making process and listen to their comments and concerns.

Flexibility

The implementation of a short working day must be flexible and adapt to the needs of the company and the workers. The needs of the client must be considered and ensure that the quality of work is maintained.

careful planning

It is important to carefully plan the implementation of a short work day to ensure that workers are not overwhelmed by the amount of work they have to do in a shorter period of time. Deadlines and delivery dates must be considered, and ensure that workers have sufficient time to complete their tasks.

Assessment

It is important to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the short working day to ensure that the desired objectives are being achieved. Feedback from workers should be collected and the feedback considered to make adjustments if necessary.

Asking for a raise can be a stressful process, but there are a few tips you can follow to do it effectively and increase your chances of success. No matter how much you love your job or how dedicated you are to your company, it's natural to want to be properly paid for your work.

There are some keys you can follow to do it effectively and increase your chances of success. Below we leave some tips that will help you ask for a salary increase with your bosses.

Research the market

Before you ask for a raise, research how much people in the same position make at other companies in the same industry. This way, you can get a realistic idea of the salary you should be earning.

Make sure you have a realistic perspective on the amount of increase you are requesting. Don't ask for more than is fair or reasonable, as this may seem unrealistic and not go down well with your boss.

Prepare the conversation

It is important that you prepare well for the conversation with your boss. Make a list of your achievements and responsibilities in the company, as well as the successes and goals achieved. In this way, you can have solid arguments that support your request.

Pick the right time

Wait for the right moment to ask for a raise. If your company is going through financial difficulties, it may not be the best time to do it. Pick a time when you performed well and made significant achievements.

You should also consider making this request before an annual review, if your work usually has this type of formality. Take into account that the company's budget is usually closed before revisions, so it is better to plan it months in advance.

Show security in you

It is essential that when requesting an evaluation of this type, you project security and confidence in your professional abilities. Therefore, it is important to present your application assertively and without showing insecurities. You can put it in perspective: if a seller offered you a product without ensuring its effectiveness, would you buy it?

Be clear and concise

When talking to your boss, be clear and concise in your arguments. Do not beat around the bush or ramble. Keep the focus on your achievements and responsibilities in the company and explain why you deserve a raise.

Be flexible

If your boss isn't willing to offer you a raise, don't give up. Ask what you need to do to improve your skills and get paid more in the future. Ask him what goals you must meet to get a raise and work on them.

Also analyze the possibility of negotiating other sections of your work that may be beneficial for you, an example of this would be asking for greater flexibility in the schedule or more days of working from home.

Consider growth and development

Instead of just focusing on money, think about how you can continue to grow in your career and gain new skills and responsibilities at the company. This will not only help you justify a raise request in the future, but it will also help you advance your career in the long run.

Keep a positive attitude

Remember that the pay raise conversation is an opportunity to prove yourself to the company. Keep a positive attitude and focus on your abilities and achievements instead of your financial need.

Keep in mind that negotiation is a two-way process. Listen to your boss's perspectives and opinions, and work together to find a solution that works for both parties.

Practice your proposal

It is normal to feel nervous about asking for a salary increase. Therefore, it can be helpful to pre-practice what you want to say and how to phrase it before the day of the conversation. By rehearsing, you will feel more secure and confident when exposing your request, which will help you reduce the anxiety you may feel in this situation.

Be aware of company culture and policy

If you're a company that values loyalty and seniority, it may be best to wait until you've worked at the company for a while before asking for a raise. On the other hand, if the company values performance and productivity, you can highlight your achievements and successes to justify your raise request .

Avoid ultimatums and blame

It's natural to feel bad if our salary increase request is rejected, as it may be important to us. However, it is best to avoid using ultimatums, being aggressive, or blaming ourselves for not having sufficiently proven ourselves in this situation.

What do I do if I received a negative response to my salary increase proposal?

Receiving a negative response after requesting a salary increase can be discouraging and frustrating, but it's important to stay positive and move forward. Here are some tips for handling frustration or discouragement after a negative response:

Accept the answer and respect the decision

Acknowledge your boss's response and respect his decision, even if you disagree. Try to understand his reasons and focus on how you can improve your situation in the future.

Reflect on the conversation

Discuss what you could have done differently or better in the conversation. Learn from the experience and use this knowledge to better prepare for the next time.

Seek feedback

If your boss hasn't given you feedback on why you didn't get a raise, ask them to give you some constructive feedback on what you can do to improve your skills and get a raise at the future.

Set goals

Set goals for yourself and work on them to improve your skills and responsibilities in the company. This will not only help you justify a request for a raise in the future, but it will also help you advance your career in the long run.

Look for new opportunities

If you feel stuck in your current job, consider looking for new opportunities at the company or elsewhere. Stay positive and keep looking for new ways to advance your career.

Banksy is one of the most mysterious and controversial artists of our time. His subversive street art and social commentary have made his work recognized around the world. But who is Banksy? Is it one person, a collective, or a conspiracy of artists?

The true identity of Banksy remains a mystery, which has led to many theories and speculations about his origin. Some believe it is a man named Robin Gunningham, while others argue that it is a group of talented artists. But what is clear is that Banksy has left his mark all over the world, creating iconic pieces on walls, bridges, and public buildings.

Although Banksy's work often addresses serious issues such as social and political injustice, his art is also fun and entertaining. From the child playing with a trash bag to the girl releasing a heart-shaped balloon, each Banksy piece has a story to tell.

Impact of Banksy on popular culture

Banksy has challenged traditional norms of art and brought his work directly to the streets, challenging the established art system and generating a new audience for urban art. His distinctive style and social commentary have been imitated by many and he has been a major influencer for the urban art community.

In addition, Banksy's work has reached a broad and diverse audience, largely due to his popularity on social media and online. His works have gone viral and been widely shared around the world, increasing his impact and helping to spread his message.

He has also been an important social and political activist, using his art to address issues such as poverty, war, injustice, and surveillance. He has created striking pieces that have caught the public's attention and generated debate and discussion on important issues.

Banksy's best works

Girl with Balloon

An image of a girl releasing a red heart-shaped balloon. It was originally created as a mural in London in 2002 and has become one of Banksy's most iconic works.

Flower Thrower

Also known as Love is in the Air, this mural shows a protester throwing a bouquet of flowers instead of a stone. It was created in Palestine in 2003.

Brexit

The artwork was created in 2017, shortly after the result of the referendum on the UK's exit from the European Union was announced.

The work shows an image of a worker removing one of the stars from the EU flag, symbolizing the UK's exit from the European Union.

In 2019 the artwork was removed from the side of the building.

Kissing Coppers

A mural in which two policemen passionately kiss. It was painted in Brighton, UK, in 2004.

Mobile Lovers

It is a famous work by Banksy that went viral after it appeared in Bristol, England, in 2014.

The work features two lovers passionately kissing while looking at their mobile phones instead of each other. The image is an ironic criticism of the excessive use of technology and how people can be more connected to their devices than the people around them.

Laugh Now

The work features a monkey in a comedic pose, with an extended hand and a gun bullet that has come off of its middle finger.

The image was created in 2002 and was originally painted on the back of a cargo truck on the street. Since then, it has become one of Banksy's most recognized works and has been reproduced in many different formats.

Kiev

The image was created in 2022 and shows a gymnast performing a balancing exercise on the ruins of a building destroyed by Russian army bombings.

Valentine's Day Mask

On February 14, 2023, this work was revealed which refers to machismo and gender violence.

The work used an abandoned freezer to simulate that the woman in the mural, who is missing a tooth, had thrown a man into the appliance.

Stop and Search

This Banksy artwork was created in 2007 and depicts a young woman being stopped and searched by a police officer who is looking for drugs.

The image is a scathing critique of policing practices in the United Kingdom, which have often been accused of being racially discriminatory and targeting vulnerable people.

The Son of a Migrant from Syria

This was created on a wall in the French city of Calais, near a refugee camp in 2015.

The artwork depicts Steve Jobs with a bag in hand and a Macintosh computer on his back, while wearing a blanket over his shoulders. It is interpreted as a criticism of the fact that Jobs, whose biological father was Syrian, likely would not have been able to immigrate to the United States if he were born today due to stricter immigration policies.

Traveling is one of the most exciting and inspiring experiences we can have in life. But what happens when we arrive at our destination and discover that it is not everything we expected? In this sense, there are cities that have been overvalued for various reasons and that do not meet the expectations of the tourists who visit them.

It is important to mention that each person has their own expectations and preferences when it comes to travel. What may be overrated for one person, may be a unique and wonderful experience for another. However, in general, there are certain cities that have been considered overrated by most tourists.

What makes a city overrated for travel?

There are several factors that can cause a city to be considered overrated for travel. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Excessive advertising: a city can be promoted as the perfect tourist destination, with unique and wonderful experiences that are not fulfilled. Excessive and misleading advertising can create unrealistic expectations, leading to a disappointing experience for tourists.
2. Tourist saturation: The massive influx of tourists can negatively affect the quality of the visit. Long lines, crowds of people, and a lack of space can make the tourism experience uncomfortable and stressful.
3. Cultural Inauthenticity: Cultural inauthenticity can make the tourism experience feel more like a theme park than an immersion in culture. local culture. This can leave tourists looking for an authentic experience feeling disappointed and frustrated.
4. High prices: High prices can be a determining factor for tourists to believe that the destination is overrated. The high costs of lodging, transportation and food can make the visit expensive and inaccessible for many tourists.
5. Lack of variety: The lack of variety in tourist experiences can make the visit feel monotonous and unenriching. This can generate a feeling of boredom and disinterest in tourists.

What are the most overrated cities according to tourists?

Bangkok, Thailand

The most overrated city is Bangkok, some of the bad comments received is that it is too crowded at all times and unfortunately the Chao Phraya river is quite dirty.

The most overrated attraction in the city is Khao San Road, a street with a large number of food outlets, as well as small street food stalls and souvenir shops, it is highly criticized by visitors as they describe it as a very crowded place and only suitable for young people and travelers looking to party.

Even Bangkok's world famous street food fails to impress some tourists who have left their reviews, saying that dishes like noodles or Pad Thai are cheap but some places offer lousy quality.

Antalya, Turkey

The city of Antalya has been criticized by tourists as very trivial and without worthwhile tourist attractions, even the city's water park is not attractive to tourists.

However, Antalya is a historical city that is rich in culture and heritage, and is home to some of Turkey's top tourist spots, including the Old Town and Kaleici Marina.

Singapore

Singapore, a small fishing community that has grown enormously and is now one of the most important financial centers in the world, on a par with New York. With its economic growth, Singapore has become popular with highly-skilled expatriates seeking employment in the technology and financial sector.

However, many visitors have pointed out that the city seems overrated, as while it's perfect for work, it doesn't offer much in the way of fun or excitement.

Even some of the tourist spots, according to online reviews, appear to be gloomy and lacking in charm. Singapore boasts top photo spots including the famous infinity pool atop the Marina Sand Bay building and the stunning Gardens by the Bay. But many comments online indicate that it lacks soul and culture.

While it is true that Singapore has a lot to offer on a business level, it may not be the best option for a vacation trip.

Munich, Germany

The Oktoberfest in Munich is one of the most recognized festivities in the world and an experience that many tourists want to experience at least once in their lives. However, based on analyzed data, the city of Munich may be overrated for visitors.

Some tourists reported experiencing some form of frustration during their trip, and Oktoberfest ranked as the sixth most disappointing attraction in the city among the 20 tourist attractions analyzed.

Rimini, Italy

Rimini is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Italian Adriatic coast, especially in summer, thanks to its long sandy beach. However, reviews from tourists suggest that the city has lost much of its charm. Many visitors mention that Rimini's atmosphere is not the best, and many reviews suggest that the city seems dated and old. Despite the fact that Rimini was a very popular destination in the 1980s and 1990s, your memories of it may not correspond to the city of today. If you still want to visit Rimini, keep these opinions in mind and consider if it suits your travel preferences.

Miami, United States

Analysis of online reviews reveals that Miami is considered the most overrated city in the United States. It is a popular destination among wealthy cruise liners and tourists who appreciate Art Deco art and Hispanic culture. However, according to the comments, the Little Havana neighborhood, which is home to a large Cuban community, has lost some of its charm and can be a bit cramped for visitors.

Mumbai, India

Based on online ratings and reviews reviewed by experts, Mumbai can be overwhelming for some tourists due to its own rules and habits, which can be difficult to understand. Despite this, the city is known for its vibrant and fast-paced atmosphere, which makes it unique and exciting. To enjoy the Mumbai experience it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, keep an open mind and accept cultural differences. Tourists unwilling to do so may find the city overwhelming and are best avoided traveling to it.

London, United Kingdom

London has received negative reviews online and has been ranked as one of the top ten most overrated cities in the world. The London Ferris Wheel, Buckingham Palace and the Big Ben tower were the most criticized tourist sites. Many comments indicate that these places are boring and that the city itself is overrated. It is better to look for new attractions in London as the old ones no longer excite tourists. Young people are interested in other activities, such as trying street food, attending concerts, and exploring the nightlife and art galleries. It is important to remember that each person has different interests and preferences. It is a good idea to venture out to explore on your own and not just be guided by the traditional tourist attractions.

Paris, France

According to critics, Paris only partially lives up to tourists' expectations in its most famous attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum, and iconic pastry shops. In an evaluation of the 20 most popular tourist attractions, our data analysts found that many visitors were unimpressed by Montmartre, and made uncomfortable by the pressure and harassment in that neighborhood. Although the Eiffel Tower was not named as the most disappointing attraction, it ranked in the top 6. While it is important to visit these tourist spots, it is also advisable to explore the lesser-known neighborhoods and discover new places to experience authentic Parisian culture.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a fascinating city that combines traditional culture with modern technology, the speed of the train and the kawaii lifestyle. There are options for all tastes, from lively Shibuya to the tranquil gardens of the Imperial Palace. Even though Tokyo has long delighted tourists with its unique mix, nearly one in six visitors have left disappointed according to online comments. The Akita Hachikō statue, which honors the famous dog for its loyalty, has received the worst reviews from Western tourists. While it may not be the right target audience for this heartwarming tale, Tokyo deserves a second chance. If you want to explore something new, Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has become very popular with Western tourists in recent years.

It is important to be informed and aware of tourist destinations that may not meet expectations in order to avoid an unpleasant experience. At the same time, there are lesser-known cities that can be much more authentic and enriching than some of the more popular and overhyped ones.

Music is one of the most popular art forms and has been a part of human culture since time immemorial. Over the years, music has evolved into a wide variety of genres and styles, each with its own sound and message. Even though music has changed a lot over the decades, one thing has remained constant: the way people perceive it.

We often hear people say that the music of the past was better than the music of today. Whether it's classic rock, '70s disco, or '80s pop, there's a common tendency among many listeners to prefer music from decades past over music of today. But why does this happen?

Here are some of the reasons that explain why we have this belief.

Nostalgia

The music we listened to in our youth or at significant moments in our lives can be associated with happy and positive memories, which can increase our preference for that type of music.

Therefore, when we hear a song that reminds us of a special moment in our life, we are likely to perceive it in a more positive light.

It's important to note that music from bygone eras is often associated with significant cultural events and movements, making it more emotionally significant and memorable to the people who lived through it.

Innovation and originality

Music from decades past is often characterized by innovation in terms of experimentation and mixing of different genres. For example, in the 1960s and 1970s, progressive rock and psychedelic rock incorporated elements of classical music, jazz, and folk music, giving rise to new sounds and styles that had never been heard before. In the 1980s, electronic music and hip hop also emerged as new music genres that challenged the popular music conventions of the time.

Advances in music technology and globalization have allowed artists to have access to a wide range of sounds and styles from around the world, leading to a mix of genres and styles that can seem more diluted in terms of originality.

This has led to a greater uniformity in the sound and production of today's music, with the use of technologies such as autotune and the mass production of commercial songs.

Lettering quality

Song lyrics from decades past may have been perceived as having greater depth and meaning than today's songs, which often focus on more superficial and commercial themes. Songs from before often dealt with political, social, and cultural issues, and focused on telling complex, emotional stories that could be interpreted in many different ways.

Oftentimes, early music and its lyrics were more focused on the artist's vocal ability and interpretive ability, while today's music places more emphasis on rhythm and the use of production effects.

Musical style

The music of the previous decades used to be highly influenced by the cultural and social movements that were lived in each era, which resulted in the creation of new musical styles. For example, the music of the 1960s was influenced by the hippie movement and psychedelic rock, while the music of the 1980s was influenced by the new wave movement and punk rock.

Currently, there is a trend towards musical homogenization, where commercial music focuses on following a pre-established formula to ensure its success on the charts. This has led to more repetition of musical styles and structures, which can make today's music sound less original.

Production quality

Music production in previous decades often focused on capturing the musicians' live performance and creating a recording that reflected the energy and emotion of that time. Sound engineers strove to capture the natural sound of the instruments and the acoustics of the space in which the music was recorded, resulting in rawer, more authentic-sounding recordings.

In contrast, today's music production is often focused on creating a seamless, polished recording with an abundance of studio effects and digital techniques. Producers can use audio editing tools to adjust and correct the pitch and timing of vocals and instruments, which can result in a more artificial-sounding, polished recording.

It is important to note that these perceptions are subjective and largely depend on the personal preferences of each individual. What for some people can be a deep and meaningful song, for others it can be a superficial and uninteresting melody.

In summary, taste in music is highly personal and subjective, and there is no objective answer to whether music from before is really "better" than music today.

The month of February began with one of the worst natural tragedies in recent times, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook the countries of Syria and Turkey, leaving more than 40,000 dead today and millions of people displaced due to the natural disaster.

But, what were the reasons why this earthquake left so many deaths? If we compare with natural events of this nature around the world, we can use as a reference the earthquake that shook Chile in 2010, with a magnitude of 8.8, but left just over 500 deaths, or the tremors in Mexico City, coinciding with a 19 September but in different years, although tragic not as deadly as Turkey and Syria.

Next we will explain the reasons that caused this great tragedy.

What is an earthquake?

An earthquake is a natural event that occurs when the earth's surface begins to shake or move violently due to the release of energy in the earth's crust. This energy can be released by the buildup of stress on the earth's surface due to tectonic activity, such as the interaction of tectonic plates.

What are geological faults?

A geologic fault is a fracture or crack in the Earth's crust where the rocks on both sides of the fault have moved in different directions. Geological faults are formed when the Earth's crust experiences stresses and forces that exceed the resistance of its component rocks, causing the rocks to break along a line of weakness.

Faults can vary in size and shape, from small fractures that are barely visible on the Earth's surface to large fault lines several kilometers wide and hundreds of kilometers long. Faults can be active, meaning they are experiencing constant motion, or inactive, meaning they have not experienced significant motion in a long time.

Reasons that made the earthquake in Turkey and Syria so devastating

The magnitude and aftershocks

The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.8, which is considered to be greater, and within minutes there was an aftershock with a magnitude of 6.7. After 9 hours there was another movement of the earth that reached a magnitude of 7.5, this earthquake originated in a different fault a little further north of the country.

To date, more than 3,900 aftershocks have been recorded, which does not make it easier for relief and rescue efforts.

The magnitude quantifies "the energy that is released in the earthquake", that is, it expresses the net energy that was released: one of 9 releases 32 times more than one of 8, regardless of where it occurs or who is affected

The intensity

The effect of an earthquake on the earth's surface is what we call the intensity, which is measured with what is known as the "Mercalli seismological scale". This scale goes from I (very weak) to XII (catastrophic), the earthquake in Turkey being grade IX, since it caused severe destruction of buildings and landslides, as has unfortunately been observed.

The depth

The earthquake was, scientists agree, very superficial since it occurred only 18 kilometers deep in the earth's crust.

The length of the fault

The size of the fault, 150 kilometers long by 25 kilometers thick, was another factor that contributed to the destruction.

Convergence of four tectonic plates

The reason that this area has so much seismic activity is because four tectonic plates converge there: the Anatolian, Arabian, Eurasian and African plates. These land masses, which form the outermost layer of our planet, are constantly shifting and colliding with each other.

Earthquakes occur most frequently along fault lines, which cause fractures in the planet's surface. And in this region there are two large transform faults, that is, those in which a lateral displacement of one tectonic plate occurs with respect to the other: the North Anatolian fault (1,000 kilometers long) and the fault of Eastern Anatolia (700 km).

Types of constructions

Despite living in an area of high seismic intensity, most of the buildings that were destroyed did not have the capacity to withstand earthquakes.

While in countries like Japan or Chile the construction regulations are very strict due to the recurrence of strong earthquakes, it is possible that in Turkey and Syria many buildings did not conform to the regulations.

Due to this construction problem, the Turkish authorities issued 113 arrest warrants against people involved in the construction of some of the collapsed buildings.

In summary, the various variables such as a densely populated area, the type of buildings without resistance to earthquakes, the shallowness of the tremor, the type of movement of the plates and the time at which it was unleashed; it was the early morning so he surprised people sleeping, he produced the perfect formula for one of the biggest natural disasters of the time.

​Last year Tomorrowland, the biggest music festival in the world, was on everyone's lips. After two years of inactivity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it returned stronger than ever.

If you do not know what it is, we will tell you a little about its history. Tomorrowland had its first edition in the distant 2005, specifically on August 11 of that year, thanks to the efforts of the Belgian brothers Manu and Michiel Beers. They had the idea of holding a music festival near the municipality of Boom, in Belgium.

In its beginnings it was very far from what we see today, its settings were humble and there were no mythological and fantastic themes like today. It was not until its third edition that it began to last two days instead of just one.

Scenarios and themes

It wasn't until Tomorrowland 2009 that the tradition of the theme was born and as the editions have passed it has become a core part of the event. The themes that have involved each edition are:

By the year 2022 the festival had a total of 15 simultaneous stages:

• Mainstage
• Freedom
• Mesa Garden
• Harbour House
• Cage
• The Rave Cave
• Rose Garden
• Youphoria
• Leaf
• Kara Savi
• Atmosphere
• Core
• Crystal Garden
• The Library
• Moose Bar

Attendance

For the 2022 edition, all attendance records from previous years were broken, achieving a total of approximately 650,000 people who participated in this music festival.

Around 200 different nationalities congregate in the place, all united by music, which gives us a sample of the power it has to unite people and put aside their differences.

​

How to go to Tomorrowland?

The first thing you should know is that the sale of tickets is done in stages and with different prices for each one:

• Top 20
  • Tomorrowland guarantees a ticket for you and up to 3 more friends if you are one of the first 20 in your country to complete the mandatory pre-registration.
• Global Journey
  • Buying your ticket through Global Journey is the easiest way to buy your ticket to go to Tomorrowland. Global Journey are travel packages that the festival sells from various cities around the world with the bus, train or plane ticket included and they take care of taking you to Tomorrowland.
• Belgian Sale
  • Although this sale is only for Belgian nationals, it's still an opportunity if for some reason you have a Belgian friend who also thinks of attending.
• Presale
  • At this sales stage, tickets are cheaper, but also limited. Since 2020, a faster sales system has been implemented that verifies all connected accounts 90 seconds before, penalizes those who have several tabs open in the same browser, and places you in a virtual queue.
• General sale
  • As in the pre-sale, what you must do is enter the store at least 2 minutes before to verify your account and you also have only 7 minutes to complete the purchase.

The prices vary a lot, since there are single day passes from 110 euros (around 2,300MXN) to the Full Madness pass that allows you to enter a whole weekend for an amount of up to 535 euros (around 11,200MXN), these passes do not include lodging.

The festival informs at the end of the year when the event will take place and the dates on which you can pre-register and purchase tickets, generally between the months of February to May.

Where to stay for Tomorrowland?

There are several options to stay in Boom, Belgium for the Tomorrowland festival. The festival itself has a space for all those people who want to camp near the festival, of course for an extra price at the entrance.

This space created by the organizers is called Dreamville, where up to 40,000 people stay per day and has an extension of more than 2 kilometers. You can find different accommodation options:

• Magnificent greens, festival access and camping at Dreamville
• Magnificent greens 1P Tent gives you access to the festival and they give you a tent to pitch.
• Easy Tent gives access to the festival in a more exclusive area where your tent is already set up, ready for use and on pallets.
• Dream Lodge gives access to the festival and a small cabin for two people.
• Cabin gives you access to the festival and a much larger cabin with electrical hookups and all the amenities.
• Theme Hotels, also give access to the festival and are located in the downtown area of Brussels.

If you are interested in spending less then you can find hotels or accommodation in:

• The city of Boom though is very difficult due to high demand during the festival dates.
• Near cities:
  • Antwerp, 17km away.
  • Mechelen, 14km away.
  • Brussels, 20km away.

During COVID-19

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has plagued the world for the past few years, the Tomorrowland festival had to be cancelled, which was a huge financial hit for the organizers.

Seeking to lessen the negative impact, in 2020 and 2021 they decided to hold a virtual version of the event with DJs such as David Guetta, Martin Garrix, Steve Aoki, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Amelie Lens. In order to simulate the real atmosphere in a digital environment, they filmed new sets on 6x8x8 meter green screens, in four different locations: Sao Paulo, Sydney, Los Angeles and Boom itself. They also created the immersive virtual world called Pāpiliōnem, which users could explore from their computers.

One of the big technical challenges was translating the green screen footage into a mobile virtual world at scale, where six 4K cameras could be combined with 38 virtual cameras to get wide shots of the 280,000 virtual festival goers, all Camera and lens parameters were transmitted live to servers that recorded the data and generated a low-resolution version of the virtual world, for use by camera operators and directors. Along with the technical setup, the artist's lighting changed depending on the location of the virtual stage and the time of day during the broadcast.

Fortunately, more than 1 million viewers watched the festival virtually in 2020, which indicates that all the effort made was a success.

Aftermovie Tomorrowland

A couple of weeks after the event ends, the organization publishes a video with the most representative moments of the festival, this is known as an aftermovie. Since 2005 to date, this video has been made so that everyone can see the experience of being in Tomorrowland.

As time has passed, the production of aftermovies has improved, also serving as a publicity piece and attracting even more people to the event.

Controversies in Tomorrowland

One of the strongest controversies that took place in Tomorrowland was during the 2018 edition. The singer Bad Bunny took the stage during the presentation of the Swedish DJ Alesso to sing I like it, the song he produced with Cardi B and J Balvin. No more than a few minutes passed and the claims on social networks were noted, criticizing the singer, the DJ and the organization since they did not understand the presence of the famous reggaeton artist on stage.

This is not the first time that reggaeton has played in Tomorrowland, in 2016 the Belgians Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike put a song by Daddy Yankee in the middle of their presentation. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike surprised those attending the festival in the city of Boom, in the north of Belgium, by presenting their version of "Gasolina".

And in 2019 Daddy Yankee played again, now with Natti Natasha with the song "Instagram", which was performed by Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike themselves, now in collaboration with David Guetta, Daddy Yankee, Afro Bros and Natti Natasha.

Also present when playing the song were the song's collaborators, David Guetta and Afro Bros.

Now you know a little more about the biggest and most spectacular music festival in the world, Tomorrowland. Would you like to go and live the experience of this event? Have you been to Tomorrowland yet?

Share your experiences in the comments.