Are you ready to take your business to new heights and boost your revenue in 2024? In a world where change seems to be the only constant, it can be a daunting task to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business strategies. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through ten tried-and-tested tactics that can skyrocket your revenue growth next year.

1. Get to Know Your Audience: Understanding your customers inside and out is the first step towards increasing your revenue. Take the time to delve into their demographics, interests, and purchasing behaviors through thorough market research. The better you understand your audience, the more effectively you can tailor your products and services to meet their needs.
   
2. Craft a Comprehensive Marketing Plan: A well-thought-out marketing plan is like a roadmap to success. It provides a clear direction for your marketing efforts, helping you reach your target audience, establish brand awareness, and ultimately convert leads into paying customers. Whether you’re focusing on digital marketing, traditional advertising, or a combination of both, having a solid plan in place is essential for driving revenue growth.
   
3. Embrace the Power of Social Media: Social media has become an indispensable tool for businesses looking to connect with their audience. By creating a strong presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, you can engage with your followers, share valuable content, and build meaningful relationships with your customers. Don’t underestimate the power of social media in driving brand awareness and increasing sales.
   
4. Invest in SEO: Search engine optimization (SEO) is the key to improving your website’s visibility and driving organic traffic. By optimizing your website’s content and structure, you can increase your chances of ranking higher in search engine results pages (SERPs), making it easier for potential customers to find you online. From keyword research to on-page optimization, investing in SEO is a long-term strategy that can pay off big time in terms of increased traffic and revenue.
   
5. Develop a Content Marketing Strategy: Content is king in the digital age, and a well-executed content marketing strategy can work wonders for your business. Whether you’re creating blog posts, videos, infographics, or podcasts, high-quality content that resonates with your audience can help you attract, engage, and retain customers. By providing valuable information and establishing your brand as a thought leader in your industry, you can drive traffic to your website and generate leads that ultimately convert into sales.
   
6. Harness the Power of Email Marketing: Despite the rise of social media and other digital marketing channels, email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to reach your audience. By building an email list of subscribers who have opted in to receive communications from you, you can deliver targeted messages directly to their inbox. From promotional offers to informative newsletters, email marketing allows you to stay top of mind with your audience and drive conversions.
   
7. Personalize the Customer Experience: In today’s hyper-competitive market, personalization is key to standing out from the crowd. By leveraging data and technology, you can create personalized experiences for your customers that make them feel valued and understood. Whether it’s recommending products based on past purchases or addressing customers by name in your communications, personalization can go a long way towards building loyalty and driving repeat business.
   
8. Provide Exceptional Customer Service: In the age of social media and online reviews, providing exceptional customer service is more important than ever. Make sure your customers have multiple channels to reach you for support, whether it’s by phone, email, or live chat. Be responsive to their inquiries and complaints, and go above and beyond to resolve any issues they may have. Happy customers are loyal customers, and loyal customers are more likely to refer their friends and family to your business.
   
9. Implement Upselling and Cross-Selling: Upselling and cross-selling are powerful strategies for increasing your average order value and maximizing the lifetime value of your customers. By suggesting related products or upgrades at the point of purchase, you can encourage customers to spend more and get more value out of their purchase. From “frequently bought together” recommendations to limited-time offers, there are countless ways to upsell and cross-sell your products and services.
   
10. Continuously Measure and Analyze Results: Last but not least, it’s important to regularly monitor and analyze the results of your marketing and sales efforts. By tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, conversion rates, and customer satisfaction scores, you can identify what’s working well and what areas need improvement. Use this data to iterate on your strategies, test new ideas, and continually optimize your approach for maximum impact.
    

In conclusion, implementing these ten strategies can help you drive revenue growth and take your business to the next level. From understanding your audience to optimizing your marketing efforts and delivering exceptional customer experiences, each of these tactics plays a crucial role in building a successful and sustainable business.

Hello all, first of all, sorry if there will be ungrammatical sentences. English is not my native language. Also, I apologize if I should not have posted my post here (i am new here).
My next door apartment neighbor is a tall bodybuilder. He always slams his door so hard, like as if his life depends on slamming it as hard as possible. When he does this at 2~3am, you will wake up guaranteed. Our rooms are mirrored, so our living rooms are separated by each others' bathrooms. For this reason I can't hear him at all, and neither can he hear me, because I am wearing buds to listen to my music and I am a very sedentary person at home and don't do anything beside using the PC and studying. I am trying to think why he is doing this. Does he have a problem with his other next dooupstairs/downstairs neighbor? Or he wants to act cool? Strange behavior.
I have already reported him 2 times to my landlord, but nothing has changed. Our landlord is a 87 years old fragile, soft spoken, small lady who lives a little bit far. She visits the apartment once in a while, and I may have misheard, but I think I overheard her and an other tenant talking about 'loud noise'. Not sure if this was also about the door. My neighbor's behavior and way of looking is unfriendly. For example, he loudly burps in the apartment, never makes way for you to pass in the hallway, looks at you with an arrogant/aggressive look. So, going to him directly would make me uncomfortable.
Let's say this issue cannot be solved diplomatically through the landlord, and my gut feeling says it won't be solved, what can be done to show him that his door slamming is not liked? I cannot be the only one in this apartment who doesn't like his door slamming, especially when it happens at 2~3am. Please give me tips, but please don't give tips that may hurt my kind landlord's property.
If diplomacy fails, then I am thinking of annoying him by ringing his bell at 6am on the days he slams the door at 2~3am. Then I hope he will get the hint. Do you think this is an ok idea? What else can/should I do, or not do?

At 31 I thought everything would get so much easier— from jobs to settling down to owning what lies ahead of me. I was wrong.
I was stuck in a 2-hour commute back home and a car stopped beside me. I can see through this person’s window. He was smiling with who I assume to be his partner. He looked relatively young; at least about in his mid-20’s. I glanced at myself in the rear-view mirror thinking, “What would I give up to be young again?” The thing is, I don’t want to be young again. I’ve made so many mistakes that still haunt me to this day. I killed the podcast that I was listening to and reflected on how my day went. It was the same soul-crushing job with the same dreadful tasks with the same dull people— probably as dull as I am— wasting away. I’m getting paid decently, no health issues, driving a workhorse. Will probably fix myself and my wife a nice drink when I get home.
I’m rambling, but what I really wanted to say is this, and I wish I could say it loud enough for someone who feels the same way as I do to hear me, and tell me that everything’s going to be alright. I want to quit my job and find one with more pay but I couldn’t, especially after numerous attempts to apply to a few different ones with no response from the other end. Ah maybe because I’m too old. Younger kids with more energy and newer ideas are coming in to the workforce and I have no place. I’m worried about the future I’m creating and preparing for my wife and my future child. Am I making the right choices? I wish I was born rich. Maybe I’d just go around helping people while making sure that my wife and my child are set. But I’m not, and I will never be. I feel dumb for sticking to this mind-numbing job for too long and I feel so sorry for myself, but I will not feel sorry for the fact that Im sucking it all up because I want a better life not for myself, but for my wife and my would-be child.
I don’t know what I’m getting at, but I’m so worried about so many things that I can’t even be present anymore. I’m just stuck with my thoughts all day— fix the house, bring home food, fix the car, replace furniture, sleep early but I can’t because I have a report due, bills are due on the 30th, lazy co-workers asking me about the same thing for almost every week, stuck in the same projects for 6 years and counting, not learning anything new, too old to move, too young to quit. I have so much to be thankful for, but I am not happy with most. Because I feel I’m not doing enough. I am so confused. What if I lose my job tomorrow? What if I move on to a new job but it’s as horrible as the former? I don’t have the luxury of losing, of starting all over again. I don’t know who to blame but myself. I spare my wife from all of this because she deserves peace— not this mess I am embroiled in. I feel ridiculous for feeling like this. I don’t even run a country, I’m not saving lives— I just do sales reports and manage upwards to get that paycheck every month. I’ve nothing to show for, but I can only show out everyday because I have to. Tomorrow, I’ll try to find something to be proud of about myself. Haven’t felt proud of myself for quite a while. I don’t know what to do. What do I even have to do? I’m so confused. I don’t know what this is, even. I just needed to vent. Thank you.

My 6 year old has been in OT for about two and a half years now. Or he was. He graduated yesterday, with an evaluation in 6 months. My son is level 1 autistic and has social anxiety, that has gotten better in most ways. He's still not one to seek out other kids to play with but he loves his classmates at tumbling in both classes. He gets along with kids over the age over 8, too.
The thing is though, is that over the last two and a half years he never really warmed to the OT he has worked with. I don't know it didn't hit me until this morning, the day after he no longer will be going to OT but I realized that my son still wasn't comfortable with his therapist. He wasn't avoidant of her but he didn't strike up the relationship that he has with his coaches, or had with his preschool teachers, the substitute OT, or his speech therapist who he loved so much he cried when he found out he wasn't going anymore. In fact, yesterday after being told it was his last day, which we weren't prepared for and I was worried about his reaction, he practically skipped out of the office.
I feel so guilty that I didn't notice the signs that he was uncomfortable, the fake laugh that he does when he wants people to stop talking, the little side eye he does when he can't figure someone out, or the annoyance that I can now see clear as day, that she just never got him, understood him (figuratively and literally, after 2.5 years and taking speech classes that he flew through, she still couldn't understand him much of the time). He was always happy to go to speech and would perk up when he had a substitute OT, but he hated going to his regular one by the end. He's homeschooled and I think by the end he would have rather done pages of handwriting practice than go.
I don't know the point of this post. Maybe just to vent because I feel bad? Maybe to see if anyone else has been there and has advice. Either way, thank you for reading.

Hello all!
I’m looking for some advice on SEO and building a robust content strategy for our unique business structure. Our company is essentially a collective of several smaller companies, each with its own expertise and industry experience. We leverage the combined knowledge and skills of these companies to tackle various projects.
Given this structure, I’m facing challenges in creating a cohesive content strategy that effectively showcases our collective expertise while also benefiting each individual company under our umbrella.
The website I am responsible for is the one that gathers all these companies; not the individual websites (there are 12 sites in total; 11 companies and 1 holding company). In other words, the website of the holding company which owns all the other companies.
Here are a few specific questions:
SEO Best Practices: What are the best SEO practices for a multi-company enterprise website?
Content Creation: How can we create content that highlights the collective knowledge and experience of all our companies without diluting their individual brand identities?
Content Distribution: What’s the best way to distribute this content?
Backlink Strategies: How can we effectively build backlinks for a collective of companies? Is it better to focus on getting backlinks to the main site or to the individual company sites?
Case Studies and Success Stories: What’s the most effective way to present case studies and success stories that involve multiple companies within our group?
Any advice, resources, or examples of similar structures would be greatly appreciated!

One day at work, I was in the clock in/out room, which doubled as a storage closet. I had just finished clocking in. I was in a rush that day and as a result I didn’t have time to change clothes before leaving my house, so I brought a pair of pants with me.
Even though I know something like this is reserved for the bathroom, I changed clothes in there because, and only because, I was alone and it would only take a few seconds, and at that, I would do it quickly. I did and I was fixing my belt when one of my female coworkers unlocked the door and entered the door. When I had this knee-jerk reaction when I was fully clothed, I don’t know, but I pushed the door back towards her and it shut. She asked me what I was doing and I explained to her I had changed clothes and was fixing my belt when she tried to enter, which by the way, she was only a step or two in there. She told me that I should do something like that in the bathroom and I said “okay” and apologized. She accepted and we all moved on with our day.
A week later, for whatever reason, her boyfriend or husband was tagging along with her throughout the whole shift. He saw me and confronted me by saying, “Don’t change your clothes in front of my wife again or you will be dealt with. And it won’t be your boss dealing with you, it’ll be me.” Also, I apparently bruised her hand when the door hit her, yet she never told me that and I never saw such a thing on her. This is wrong! I did not change clothes in front of her; it’s not like I stripped in front of her with her watching. I was fully clothed when she tried to enter. I realize that I made mistake and changing clothes in the place that I did, but I don’t think it’s unreasonable to believe that she was in the wrong for lying about it, and he was in the wrong for threatening me, especially when he didn’t have any right to be there in the first place.
I’m hesitant to tell my boss about this, because the last time I was being mistreated at work and I told my boss, I only continued to get treated badly, and when I told my aunt about this, she said, “That’s why you don’t go tattle.” I didn’t want history to repeat itself. I had reason to believe that it would, especially considering that the female coworker is the assistant manager‘s daughter.
When I told my other aunt about this, she said that because of what I did (i.e. changing clothes in the clock in/out room instead of the bathroom), it cancels out what those two did. She went onto say that he was justified in threatening me, that there was nothing wrong with that.
So, should I even bother telling my boss or whoever else about this? Or did I deserve it? That’s what I feel like she’s trying to tell me.

Mercy A5613872 Ken Handling: FRIENDLY NO SMALL DOGS Energy Level: MEDIUM Training:CONTINUED SOCIALIZATION Mercy was on the backside of the kennel run when the runner approached him. He came over to greet the runner when he presented his hand. Mercy had a relaxed body posture, a high tail wag, an open pant, ears back and a neutral gaze. After interacting with the runner, his energy level elevated and he became more anxious. He began to jump up on the kennel door, barking, whining, and pawing. As the runner tried to leash him, he tried to use his muzzle to force the door open and try exiting. He managed to leash Mercy, he exited the kennel on his own, jumping out the kennel. He pulled on leash very strongly, bypassing the other dogs along the way. Inside the catch pen, he was distracted but allowed for safe collaring. He offered no gate greetings and stuck behind the runner, staring out the entrance gate. He had a neutral body posture, a low tail, ears back, and a neutral gaze. He was led into the yard with the other dogs. Mercy sprinted in and passed the other dogs in the yard. When they followed him, he stopped and snarled at them. He would show teeth, he had a tensed body posture, hackles up, ears up and a high tail. He would growl and then run away. He paced the yard very anxiously, not stopping to acknowledge any of the dogs or the handlers. When the runner walked out of the catch pen, Mercy began to jump on the entrance gate and whined. He then trotted to the opposite, focusing much of his attention on the runner. When one of the dogs bumped into him, he began to attack the dog, biting her several times. He was corrected verbally and with the shake can. He ran off and continue to pace the yard, before attacking another dog that entered his space. He was removed from the yard at that point. Please see his handling assessment for placement designations.

Every other scene is a Bass Boosted theme overlapping the dialogues. NPC dialogues are way to over the top followed by the same bass boosted music. It's almost like time slows around Rocky, as soon as he is on screen everything is in slowmotion. Not a single conversation is over 2 sentences. . .the longest convo is between the journalist lady and narator and even that is hadly more than a few phrases, followed by an instant zoom in shots with the Bass Boosted Music.

Since the final climactic volume in this criminally underrated series just came out today, I'm reposting this on here with the permission of the original author. Original thread is located here

The Wars of Light and Shadow were fought during the third age of Athera, the most troubled and strife-filled era recorded in all of history. At that time Arithon, called Master of Shadow, battled the Lord of Light through five centuries of bloody and bitter conflict. If the canons of the religion founded during that period are reliable, the Lord of Light was divinity incarnate, and the Master of Shadow a servant of evil, spinner of dark powers. Temple archives attest with grandiloquent force to be the sole arbiters of truth.
Yet contrary evidence supports a claim that the Master was unjustly aligned with evil. Fragments of manuscript survive which expose the entire religion of Light as fraud, and award Arithon the attributes of saint and mystic instead.
Because the factual account lay hopelessly entangled between legend and theology, sages in the seventh age meditated upon the ancient past, and recalled through visions the events as they happened. Contrary to all expectation, the conflict did not begin on the council stair of Etarra, nor even on the soil of Athera itself; instead the visions started upon the wide oceans of the splinter world, Dascen Elur.
This is the chronicle the sages recovered. Let each who reads determine the good and the evil for himself.

So begins Curse of the Mistwraith, the first book of the Wars of Light and Shadow, a series very near and dear to my heart. In my opinion, this series is the most criminally underrated and underread long running work of epic fantasy. Today, I'm going to try to share part of just exactly why I love this series and gush about it with such enthusiasm, along with why you might just enjoy it too, albeit with a catch - I'm not going to mention anything about the plot or the characters.
Even though I can gush for pages and pages on the wonderful stories or characters that you'll find in these pages, since so much of the series relies on overturning the assumptions you bring with you and continue to make along the way, anything that I say about either will unfairly color your preconceptions before going in. (Besides, there are plenty other reviews of the series on here that do more justice to these aspects than I could.)
Instead, I'll talk more about the mechanical elements of the Wars of Light and Shadow - the prose, pacing, series structure, and worldbuilding, along with a little something special at the end so you can hopefully see if her work will appeal to you.
Prose
Instead of describing how wonderful Janny's prose is here, I'll just post an example of her prose here, and you can decide if her works are for you knowing that this is typical of the prose you'll find in her works.
One moment, inevitable, turned destiny’s card like the bell stroke that shattered all hope; or else, like the phoenix birthed from immolation, a spark struck in bright, helpless pain might salvage the cold course of destiny. No way to tell which ahead of the crux where possibility ended, and probability dimmed to opacity.
Seems a little difficult to take in? Don't worry, you'll adjust to the rhythm of Janny's prose after a couple of chapters - and trust me when I say that you do not want to skim, as it's on the little details that hinge the foreshadowing and explosive developments that are to come in future volumes.
If you don't know that her prose is for you, though? Simple, give To Ride Hell's Chasm a try, a standalone work in a separate universe with prose as rich and detailed as her main series, showing off the pacing structure that inhabits each of her works. Speaking of which:
Pacing
The works of Janny Wurts all have a similar but pretty unique characteristic to their pacing.
First off, Janny is all about the slow burn. Each of her works has a slow, but deliberate and carefully planned out build, and just when it seems that things are buidling towards a climax, you check your place in the book and - wait a minute, that can't be right! - you're only just barely halfway through! And amazingly enough, the pace and tension don't dissipate, but rather keep building and intensifying over the second half of the novel, resulting in a second half that is hard to put down.
If you're familiar at all with Brandon Sanderson's works, if you'll imagine the Sanderlanch but extended over the back half of a novel then you'll have a good idea of what Janny Wurts' pacing is like.
Moreover, this characteristic 1-2 punch of a slow build to halfway followed by a climactic rush towards the finale is evident not only in each volume of the Wars of Light and Shadow - each story arc (more about those later) also exhibits this same style of plotting, in addition to the series as a whole! So by the time you reach the back half of the series, each book is almost impossible to put down.
We only have one book left and Janny has promised it as being pure finale, pure denouement. So if you choose to undertake this journey, then be sure to hold onto your butts everyone once Song of the Mysteries comes out!
And don't forget, this series doesn't sprawl - rather, each new volume and new arc serves to only further deepen our understanding of all the pieces in play and serves to illuminate new facets of how they all relate together. And on top of that, there are no dropped subplots, no loos threads left unresolved, no extraneous detail - everything will matter and be resolved in the end.
Structure
Don't view The Wars of Light and Shadow as a series in eleven volumes.
While each volume is structured to have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, all the while exhibiting Janny's distinct 1-2 narrative punch, the series was first envisioned as a story in 5 arcs. Each arc features its own distinct narrative arc, climax, and resolution, and if it weren't for the limitations of publishing then each arc would be fully contained beginning-to-end under one cover and one volume.
Arc 1 consists of Curse of the Mistwraith
Arc 2 (The Ships of Merior) consists of Ships of Merior and Warhost of Vastmark
Arc 3 (Alliance of Light) consists of Fugitive Prince, Grand Conspiracy, Peril's Gate, Traitor's Knot, and Stormed Fortress
Arc 4 (Sword of the Canon) consists of Initiate's Trial and Destiny's Conflict
Arc 5 will consist of Song of the Mysteries
To get more in-depth:
Curse of the Mistwraith is the introduction, the stage setter, the foundation upon which the rest of the series is built on. It introduces us to the world, the main characters, and establishes the major conflict that drives the entire series forward from here on out. What seem to be at first insignificant details will turn out to be the fulcrum on which future explosive unveilings hinge, although if you aren't feeling the series it does have a good climax and enough closure that you can treat it as a standalone, if you wish to do so.
Arc 2 was originally published under one volume in the initial hardcover release, but it was too big for paperback and and so it was split into the two paperback volumes Ships of Merior and Warhost of Vastmark that we have today. As such, expect Ships of Merior to be almost all setup for the breakneck climax that is Warhost of Vastmark. This arc serves to deepen the main characters in addition to introducing a handful of secondary ones that prove to be crucial to later arcs, and it also raises the stakes of the series-spanning conflict to new heights - the climax is such that, at the time of its release, many thought that it was the end of the series, that's how explosive Warhost is. But those readers couldn't be more wrong, as now the stage is truly set for the explosive reveals and unveilings of the upcoming arcs to begin.
While spread across 5 volumes, the Alliance of Light arc is really one giant story that was too large to fit fully in one cover. Fugitive Prince functions in much the same way for the Alliance of Light as Curse of the Mistwraith did for the entire series, and so the pacing gears back a bit for foundational set-up - but the series doesn't sprawl here, and all the extra detail proves to be necessary by the time the arc finale rolls around as it all comes back to pay off in spades.
Arc 3 is where the series expands into world view - where we start to go really indepth into the various factions, the rules of law, the magic, the Law of Major Balance, the Compact, the Paravians, even Athera itself - and this is where the major unveilings really start to take place. This is where the series starts to shift and really deepen, and if you're only reading for the surface level plot - if you're only reading for 'what happens', and pay no mind to thinking about 'why it happens', 'how it happens', 'what are this character's motivations, what are they thinking', 'what is the purpose of this faction, what is their moral high ground, what guides them as a whole' - this is where you might start to get lost, because unless you're willing to engage the work at the levels that it asks you to, you might find yourself thinking that, for example, 'nothing happens throughout this series' - when this sentiment couldn't be further from the truth.
Peril's Gate is the tipping point in not only this arc, but for the entire series as well - this volume provides the 1-punch for the entire series, with the pace only speeding up from here not just in the rest of the Arc 3, but for the rest of the series, too. Stormed Fortress is basically a climax for the Alliance of Light that's as long as a standard fantasy novel, where all the threads converge into one location - and of course, it's such an explosive arc finale that many people once again thought the series was ending here back when it first came out.
So do you remember when GRRM planned to have a 5 year timeskip after A Storm of Swords, only to reconsider and write those events out anyway, resulting in the next couple of volumes scattering all the plot threads to the four winds? Janny avoids this with Sword of the Canon, where instead of picking up right after the climactic convergence of Stormed Fortress she instead jumps ahead to the next hot nexus of change in the story.
This shift of perspective not only keeps up the pace as the series charges ever onwards towards the finale, but a certain character's perspective lets us view events during this time jump as they become relevant, with the result of us getting reveals both backwards AND forwards in time, carrying more levels of plotting as we not only start to get the answers to important questions and mysteries that have been going on all series, but also sets everything up for the grand finale that will be Song of the Mysteries, which Janny has promised will be all denouement, with no stray threads left unraveled from the greater tapestry, no single mystery left unsolved, no question left unanswered by the time the last page of Arc 5 is turned.
Worldbuilding
Athera is one of the most unique and fully realized fantasy worlds that I've come across, but you might not realize it at first. Janny initially holds most of the cards close to her chest, giving you only just enough to seem familiar and lets your assumptions fill in the gaps at first.
The purpose of this is twofold: Not only does this let you focus more on the characters and their interactions in addition to the surface level plot on the first go around, but with each new reveal - each carefully placed new tidbit that is unwound; about the characters, the factions, the various races that inhabit Athera, even the very planet itself - each new bit of information upturns more of those assumptions that you've unconsciously made, casting prior events and knowledge into a new light.
And as more and more of the full picture unfolds, layers peeling away and unwrapping like an onion the further into the series you go, you will find that as you reread the series with the context of later events and revelations in mind that everything was there all along, even in Curse of the Mistwraith - you're just able to read between the lines now, and with that, an entirely different story unfolds, one that was always there but until now was hidden by your assumptions and lack of knowledge about the world.
And Janny rarely spoonfeeds you via infodumps, instead she immerses us with vivid prose and lets us experience events in a way that we learn about the world through example as the characters experience things themselves, letting the themes and philosophy she explores unfold themselves naturally as they all derive from the characters, their personalities and natures, and their experiences and encounters with each other.
For example, there's basic concepts underpinning all the various forms of magic used through the series - physics, resonance, quantum mechanics - but instead of telling us how the magic works, she shows us in detail the different magical workings and rituals and gives us enough information to let us divine for ourselves how the different factions tap into and shape the magical energy of Athera.
It is my honest opinion that Janny's worldbuilding easily rivals that of Erikson's and Esslemont's Malazan. But whereas The Book of the Fallen was based on a series of tabletop campaigns ran by various groups of people over the course of decades, Athera is all the product of Janny's mind, built up and expanded upon over the course of her life - the initial seed for the series was first thought up in 1972; and even today, during the course of writing the final volume Song of the Mysteries, she's still surprising herself as she's finally filling in the gaps between what were only sketched out scenes and bits of hastily scribbled notes that were the result of inspiration from decades ago.
And whereas Erikson just dumps you straight into the deep end and tells you to swim, Janny grounds us at first from the point of view of two half-brothers who come from foreign lands and foreign seas and lets us experience each new event and revelation from fresh eyes. Their experience and relative naivety fuel our assumptions at first and lay the groundwork for all we know to be blown away and seen anew over and over again, as what is initially seen as a bogstandard medieval fantasy setting is gradually revealed to be nothing at all like what we first assumed we saw.
As you will come to see, this series truly deserves to be called Epic Fantasy, with a capital E and a capital F.

Now all my life I have played on 120 ping, so I am no stranger to these situations, but I currently play on 60 to 70 ping in Europe but it feels like my bullets are not always landing. I am not having stuttering or anything, but I am certain I should be winning more gun fights than I currently am.
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Also am I the only one having insane loading times? Just to find a lobby I spend a minute or two, creating a match takes almost 15 seconds. What's up with that
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Edit: one of the things I have noticed is some people move very frantically or unnaturally quick. At first I thought it might be some ability or game movement mechanics, but it feels like it's delay related imo. I don't have packet drops in such extreme for it to behave that way. It does not in any other game. Almost like, if you are moving and I follow you with my weapon, I can barely hit you, even though I am aiming at you.

Years ago, I met a wonderful SD off of seeking. He was kind, charming, fun, handsome & we totally clicked immediately. I’m talking first date, kiss on the balcony of the restaurant overlooking the city with fire works going off kind of magic between us. He instantly became my best friend.
Over time I noticed a decline in his affection. Not as many gifts, new restrictions on the card he gave me, more emotionally distant. But for a long time (at least a YEAR) I tried to attribute it to him being stressed about his company. I would go out of my way to earn money outside of him (his allowance covered rent and utilities - however not all) just for him to accuse me of having other men or make some rude comments about how I must be getting it. To keep my time free for him I’d help out at friends bars, do promo stuff, pass out flyers, anything that gave me flexibility. Most of the time I tried to earn money to get him gifts. A trip to NY to see his favorite tv show set, a Philly trip and spa visit to help him relax, a collectors book he wanted. Cute stuff like that. I understand I really pigeonholed myself in this situation but I naively was in love with him and thought he was in love with me as well. So, I went on with our arrangement and tried to make it work.
Fast forward, I kept complaining about how things were different. It seemed like he only wanted to deal with me to pump and dump if you know what I mean. He’d say it would help him relax and we’d get back on track in due time. Problem is, it never did. He kept using me as a stress relief and started doing less and less for me. I was getting tired so we agreed I could start vanilla dating since he couldn’t fulfill the emotional connection I was looking for and inevitably I’d had no future with him. But every time I did, he would get mad and in his head, marry me off to whoever I was talking to - it was a headache. Also, trust me i understand now how toxic this was and was becoming. Eventually I just didn’t tell him about the last guy because I realized I wasn’t giving people a chance because he’d crap on them immediately.
Anyways, he found out, blew up, catfished the guy I was dating (whole different story in itself) and said all these incredibly hurtful things about me. (Again, I understand the level of toxicity we’re getting into, trust me) How I was ugly to him and the only reason he stuck around was because of the great head but he stopped coming around because I gave him greater headaches. How much weight I had gained (keep in mind he stopped paying for my gym membership, helping with groceries, and always picking fights with me so I was ALWAYS stressed either about life of him). He said he has been seeing and talking to other women. He told me that’s why the gifts declined. He told me that I wasn’t the normal woman he would go for and I deserved to have scraps while he spoiled the others because they deserved it more. Some of his comments were colorist and downright disgusting. Honestly, just really nasty, ugly things to say to a girl that made her whole life about you.
Since then, he’s apologized. He said he didn’t mean it and still wants me in his life. That no one has been like how I was to him. How now he sees how good I was to him. I didn’t give him any static about his situation, I cared about him and not solely what he was doing for me. I didn’t ask for much. I’m all of the sudden this desirable person. Now I bring him peace and he wants to be around me…
Whole point of this is to say SD’s - if you are lucky enough to find a woman who genuinely cares about your well being. Challenges you intellectually, makes herself beautiful for you & is constantly remarked on her appearance when you’re out and about, caters to you, is beautiful and kind hearted and is genuine. Value and cherish her. In a world full of selfish people in general, finding someone you genuinely enjoy your time with and that actually brings you peace is a blessing. Don’t mess that up by taking her for granted. Money and resources can bring you a lot of things, & a lot of different people but they’re not always going to do right by you or be good for you. Also, choose your words carefully. My ex-SD has no idea but they completely shattered my world with what they said and broke me for a while. Not only do I believe they genuinely felt that way the entire time I can’t stop it from replaying even when they try to compliment me these days. I don’t believe it. I can’t.
& SB’s - don’t be like me. Go where you are valued. This is suppose to be a beautiful and fun experience for both parties. I don’t regret staying committed to him for as long as I did but I regret not leaving when I realized I was no no longer valued or a priority to him. My happiness and needs were just as important as his own. And these relationship dynamics should ALWAYS be mutually beneficial. The second it becomes toxic, regardless of the love you two share, get out. I wish I would’ve had someone to talk to give me the advice I have now. It’s not worth your youth, beauty, or peace.
Ugh - sorry had to get that off my chest.

(If that flair isn't correct, please, do change it. Thanks)
Being inspired by BotW Kilson's Achievement List (most of the achievements are from that list), I made one of my own but for Tears of the Kingdom. You can add, delete or modify any achievement in any way you want if you use it, and it would be nice if you shared new achievements, modifications or anything you want to share in this post.
I'll leave the links to both the English and Spanish (from Spain) versions down here so you can download them:
English version
Spanish version
You're also free to translate it to any language you like. If you do that, please, consider sharing it here for others to see.
Thanks!

This applies to many but for the majority this is for under 18 victims specifically . if you are using apps such as wizz and yubo first of all i would recommend deleting them they arnt good for you but i know most people who use these apps wont want to delete so i want to give a few tips on how to stay safe while using theses apps . both yubo and wizz ( the "make friends apps " ) are the most risky places for being sextorted . and with most profiles there are real but a few are fake and will try to sextort you . hear are the main signs . if there profile has no photos on just a red or black screen with text instant warning sign . if there profile consists of one slide do not talk to that person . people will say if the profile says i send on it then that means they are scammers but its very 50/50 and you should rely on that entirely .most people on the app 12-18 have snap chat so if they ask for anything else in a blunt way ( some genuinely dont have snap they will be clear with you while scammer will put something basic like "dont have snap only got insta " instead or a apology followed by a reason . the final warning sign if if the profile has very little followers or is a new account . other apps such as whatsapp telegram annd snapchat are used but these apps have a very littl risk or getting leaked . instagram you have to be careful of. i hope this helped anyone who has not been sextorted yet . it might sound obvious but in the moment it is not . my advice is delete wizz or yubo and if not be safe if any further question i will answer !

Just wasted nearly 6 months on a girl who didn’t even want me apparently
5 months and 27 days. That’s how long I was deceived. All this time I thought this girl just had commitment issues and couldn’t date but apparently she never even got butterflies from me or ever even liked me? I’ll start from the start.
Roughly September of last year I met J (not her initial but for the sake of this post it’ll be J). J was a sweet extroverted girl in my music class. Long story short we got along well as friends, eventually ending up building a friend group. Keep in mind we are high schoolers.
(November)With said friend group, we went to this carnival and did carnival things (food, rides, games) and honestly this is where I started to fall for her. I felt like we bonded really well and thought we might have something special together.
(November)I caught feelings and asked her on a date to keep it short. She said yes. I felt like this was the first time a girl wanted anything to do with me in forever.
(December)Before the intended date I we had an impromptu ‘study date’ at her house (was never intended as a date but instead of study we just laid on the bed and talked). We were quite close physically, leaning on each other’s heads at one point so I had no reason to think that she didn’t liked me.
(December)It’s a week before the date. She gets into a fight with her parents and now she ‘can’t go out’. Ok, no big deal we’ll just postpone it. Until, she says she’s gonna hang out with her guy friend. Kind of odd but apparently her family is fine with this guy and he didn’t like J like that. Now here’s what 2023 me was thinking. ‘She’s extroverted, she’s gonna have guy friends and she’s gonna hangout with them’. I’m hindsight I shouldn’t have let this go so easily. This is my first mistake.
(December) Ok so now the date is postponed. But yet again we cannot go due to New Years plans and such we cannot go. Ok. That specific date plan is now cancelled.
(January) Now I ask her on another date-ish activity. She agrees and seems enthusiastic. Again however. Postponed, then postponed again. I wanted to do this activity really badly since she was going on holiday and wouldn’t be back for another month. So on the final day before she left to go on holiday. I placed the date like activity plan on my calendar expecting her to follow through aswell. Turns out this girl barely bothered to be on time and apparently couldn’t leave the house. Again I should not have let this go so easily, she didn’t even attempt to try to be with me before she left to go on holiday. This is my second mistake.
I’ll mention a third mistake here. Her BEST FRIEND was telling me she doesn’t think it is a good idea to continue since J said herself that she doesn’t see a future with me. (With receipts, best friend is honest and yes I’ve confirmed). In my own defence. She did not act or talk like she didn’t want a future with me.
(February)So she’s been off on holiday (nothing noteable happened we just texted), and now valentines is coming up and I wanted to get her a gift, so I did exactly that. Went smoothly and she really liked it. I feel great about myself and J. Even now her best friend believes, yes, she wants a future with me.
(February-May summarised)We don’t get much closer until the end where I start to open up a bit to her more and we start getting a bit more physically affectionate. This girl is my first kiss kind you. I may be in love. However, through all this. Apart from physical affection, I received no other sign that she liked me. Quite dry texting, late responses, ton of insults (I thought this was just cause she’s extroverted but if she liked me I don’t think she’d be saying all that).
Now, recently. I get information through friends that she said that she doesn’t like me. She’s said this to my face before but this was obviously with sarcasm. But this time she said it to my friends and one of them said she sounded dead serious. She even said me liking her was apparently a joke? So I waited around a bit to find my chance to pop in and ask. Do you still like me? And she kind of avoid it for a little bit until I kept pushing it and then she was honest with me.
She said. No I thought we were just having fun. Fun? This was JUST fun? What about the kisses which apparently mean something? (“I wouldn’t kiss you if it meant nothing”). What about me? What about how I felt?
So she never wanted me this entire time. Ok. That’s cool I’ll stop whatever is going between us then even though I thought it was going so well. But here’s where it gets better
I ended this not even a day ago. Today she went with the friend group we had, to volleyball training (I’m sick so I stayed home). As they were leaving the gym and on their way to wherever she mentions to them that she is going on a date with some new guy for fun?
This is about all there is for now I’ll try and keep you guys updated.
If you’re reading this you know exactly who you are even though you’re probably not on redit. All I got to say to you is I hope you find the guy to make you happy and live your life. Maybe one day you’ll stop being a flog.
To everyone reading this I’m sorry it was so long and I’m sorry if there are gaps in the story. I am also aware that part of this is my fault.

As we move into 2024, social media marketing continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Staying ahead of the curve requires innovative strategies and a keen understanding of emerging trends. Here are some social media marketing hacks and strategies that can help you stand out and drive engagement this year.

1. Leverage AI and Automation

Strategy: Use AI-powered tools to enhance your social media efforts.
Execution:

• Content Creation: Tools like Jasper and Copy.ai can help generate engaging captions, posts, and even blog content.
• Chatbots: Implement AI chatbots on platforms like Facebook Messenger to provide instant customer support and engage with your audience 24/7.
• Analytics: Use AI-driven analytics tools to gain deeper insights into your audience’s behavior and optimize your strategy accordingly.

Outcome: Increased efficiency and personalized interactions can lead to higher engagement rates and better customer satisfaction.

2. Short-Form Video Content

Strategy: Capitalize on the popularity of short-form video content.
Execution:

• TikTok and Instagram Reels: Create engaging, bite-sized videos that are fun, informative, or entertaining. Trends and challenges can help your content go viral.
• Consistency: Post regularly to maintain visibility and engagement.
• Behind-the-Scenes: Share behind-the-scenes looks at your business, product creation, or team activities to humanize your brand.

Outcome: Higher engagement rates and increased follower growth, as short-form videos often get prioritized by algorithms.

3. Social Commerce

Strategy: Integrate social commerce to streamline the shopping experience.
Execution:

• Shoppable Posts: Use Instagram and Facebook’s shoppable posts to allow users to purchase directly from your social media profiles.
• Live Shopping Events: Host live shopping events where you showcase products and interact with your audience in real-time.
• User-Generated Content: Encourage customers to share their purchases and tag your brand, then feature this content on your profile.

Outcome: Simplifying the purchasing process can lead to higher conversion rates and increased sales directly from social media.

4. Influencer Partnerships and Micro-Influence rs

Strategy: Collaborate with influencers to expand your reach.
Execution:

• Micro-Influencers: Partner with micro-influencers (1,000 to 100,000 followers) who have a highly engaged and niche audience.
• Authenticity: Ensure the influencer’s values align with your brand for authentic promotion.
• Long-Term Relationships: Build long-term partnerships rather than one-off deals for more meaningful engagement.

Outcome: Influencer partnerships can drive brand awareness, credibility, and conversions, especially when the influencer’s audience trusts their recommendations.

5. Enhanced Personalization

Strategy: Personalize your content to cater to individual preferences.
Execution:

• Segmented Campaigns: Use data to segment your audience and tailor content to different groups based on interests, behaviors, and demographics.
• Dynamic Ads: Implement dynamic ads on platforms like Facebook that change content based on the user’s interaction history.
• Direct Messaging: Use personalized direct messages to engage with followers, offer special deals, or gather feedback.

Outcome: Personalized content can significantly increase engagement and foster a stronger connection with your audience.

6. Interactive Content

Strategy: Create interactive content to engage your audience actively.
Execution:

• Polls and Quizzes: Use Instagram Stories, Facebook polls, and LinkedIn to create interactive polls and quizzes.
• Augmented Reality (AR) Filters: Develop branded AR filters on Instagram and Snapchat to engage users creatively.
• Contests and Giveaways: Host contests and giveaways that encourage users to participate and share your content.

Outcome: Interactive content can boost engagement, increase followers, and generate buzz around your brand.

7. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Strategy: Highlight your brand’s commitment to sustainability and social causes.
Execution:

• Transparency: Share your sustainability practices and efforts to contribute to social causes.
• Content Themes: Regularly post about environmental issues, charitable activities, and ways your audience can get involved.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with NGOs and other organizations to amplify your impact and reach.

Outcome: Demonstrating social responsibility can enhance brand loyalty and attract consumers who prioritize ethical practices.

Discussion Points:

• What social media strategies have you found most effective recently?
• How do you see social media marketing evolving in the next few years?
• What tools or platforms do you recommend for staying ahead in social media marketing?

Looking forward to hearing your insights and experiences!"
socialmedia, marketing, Entrepreneur, digital_marketing

HOWEVER. That is not all I wished to say. Listen up, this isn't the end. My apology is over, and now I speak to jujutsufolk in a whole. You all have been the most degenerate, wierd, schizo group of idiots I've ever met. And for that, you have been my favorite community in the entireity of the internet. You all are unchanging, unmoving, indescribably chaotic. Making this vow was stupid, and logically should have remained a thought, but according to one of my favorite books, Demian, you've never lived what you are thinking, and that isn't good. Only the ideas we actually live are of any value. So making this binding vow and dying like this is the best way to die.
As for last words, I feel like these would fit. You all are the best. Never stop hating, never stop thirsting. Never stop schizoposting. Never falter in whatever you do. If you live to hate, do not for a moment try to change. If you live to thirst, thirst without stopping, without changing. If you post for a character to return, do not for a moment stop. Post even after the manga is done. We are but specks of dust falling into the abyss. So make sure during that time you fall, you never regret anything. You never half ass a single thing.
You all were crazy, and my time here watching this sub distortingly prosper has been gross at times, depressing at others, but most of all, it's been fun. I loved every second of it.

Lately I feel like I've been reading the same books in a different font for a while, the thing that bothers me the most is that I get the feeling that the spice overtakes the plot in a way where every character is kind of revolving around their sexual impulses constantly. In most of the books there's also body betrayal and all of these "he's wrong for me but I don't know why I'm obsessed with him" and "he's the villain but he's also gorgeous to look at, I don't know why my body responds to him" type of discourse. I stopped reading YA because for some reason, spice became a non-negotiable for me, and also I don't know that I want to read stories about teenagers anymore. But recently I've been drawn back into vanilla books since I feel like because there is no sex they really are forced to develop the bond between characters and it's so much more complex and deep than most of the other stuff I've read.
Having said that I want to believe that there are actual romantic fantasy books where the plot is powerful enough and the spice is just an organic consequence of the developing feelings between the characters. I'm totally open to a multiple book saga where the spice happens in later books or something like that, I'm honestly so over sex in every page. Like, it's chapter one and she already has a throbbing between her legs or something is pooling in her lower stomach, I'm so over it.
EDIT: I just realized what I'm describing is essentially slow burn, but I don't just mean a slow burn where it takes them a long time to finally do it but they've been thinking about it since page 1. I mean a slow burn where feelings develop slowly and sex is a consequence of it as opposed to just the first thing that pops into their head. I need something more plot heavy.
Do any of you guys have any recs?

Biltong, a high-protein, low-carb meat snack, has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the globe. Originating from South Africa, its journey from a local delicacy to an international snack favourite is a testament to its unique flavour and the growing demand for healthier snacking options. We're diving into the world of biltong, exploring its history, how it's made, and the reasons behind its surging popularity.
What sets biltong apart from other snacks is not just its taste but also its nutritional profile, making it a perfect choice for those looking to indulge without compromising their health goals. Whether you're after a quick bite post-gym, a nutritious snack for the office, or a convenient treat during outdoor adventures, biltong offers a delicious solution. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind biltong's success, its health benefits, and how it differs from its cousin, jerky.
What Is Biltong: A South African Delicacy
Biltong, a high-protein, low-carb meat snack originating from South Africa, stands as a symbol of culinary heritage and innovation. Whilst embodying the spirit of South African gastronomy, it offers a healthier alternative for snack lovers worldwide. Let's delve into the essence of what makes biltong a distinctive and cherished delicacy.
The Historical Roots of Biltong
The journey of biltong began in the 17th century with Dutch settlers in South Africa adopting and enhancing a traditional drying technique from the indigenous Afrikaner population. They introduced biltong, a word derived from the Dutch "bil" (buttock) and "tong" (strip or tongue), showcasing the process of curing strips of meat. The preservation method, involving saltpetre, vinegar, coriander, and black pepper, allowed for the creation of a durable food source essential for travellers and explorers.
Over the decades, biltong evolved beyond a mere survival food, cementing its place as a beloved snack in the South African cultural landscape. Its popularity surged, transcending borders and gaining a following in various countries, thanks in part to South Africans spreading their culinary traditions globally. Today, you can discover genuine South African-made biltong through our online store, South African Spaza Shop, further enriching the cultural exchange.
Common Meats and Ingredients
The most celebrated form of biltong uses beef, revered for its rich flavour and tender texture. However, the versatility of biltong extends to various meats, including game and exotic animals, offering a diverse spectrum of tastes. The essential ingredients that define traditional biltong include meat, black pepper, coriander, salt, and vinegar. These components work harmoniously, creating the unique taste profile that biltong aficionados admire.
Modern iterations of biltong might introduce additional elements such as garlic, sugar, and chilli peppers, further enhancing its appeal. However, at its core, biltong retains the fundamental characteristics that have made it a cherished snack for centuries. Whether enjoyed as a nutritious post-workout snack, a convenient office treat, or a companion on adventurous excursions, biltong delivers unmatched convenience, health benefits, and delectable flavours.
In drawing from its rich history and utilising a broad spectrum of ingredients, biltong epitomises a culinary tradition that continues to captivate and satiate appetites worldwide. As we offer biltong made by South Africans in our online store, we're honoured to share a piece of our cultural heritage with you. Explore the authentic taste of South Africa and understand why biltong remains not just a snack, but a tradition cherished across continents.
The Art of Biltong Making
Biltong, a high-protein, low-carb meat delicacy, has captivated the tastes of many around the globe. Originating from South Africa, its unique preparation and drying process make it a distinctive snack. In this section, we'll delve into the traditional techniques that have been perfected over centuries and explain the drying process that concentrates the flavours, making each bite a savoury delight.
Traditional Preparation Techniques
The journey of making biltong begins with the selection of quality meat. Traditionally, beef is the preferred choice, but variations might include game meats, offering a broader spectrum of flavours. The meat is then trimmed of excess fat and cut into long strips, adhering to the grain for that perfect texture.
The next step involves the marination process, where the meat strips are bathed in a concoction of vinegar, salt, and spices. The authentic mix typically features coriander, black pepper, and sometimes a hint of clove or nutmeg. This marination not only infuses the meat with its characteristic flavour but also acts as a preservative, a crucial aspect given the historical origins of biltong as a means of preservation before the advent of refrigeration.
Once marinated, the meat is generously coated with a dry rub of spices, further embedding the complex flavour profile that biltong is renowned for. This step is where the artistry of biltong making truly shines, as the blend of spices can be adjusted to create different flavour variations, from the traditional to more modern twists incorporating chilli, garlic, or even smoky BBQ notes.
The Drying Process Explained
Following the marination and seasoning, the meat undergoes the pivotal drying phase, which is where the real magic happens. Traditional methods involved hanging the meat in a dry, ventilated space, allowing it to air-dry naturally. This slow drying process, which can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the climate and thickness of the slices, meticulously draws out moisture without cooking the meat.
The goal of the drying process is to remove enough moisture to preserve the meat while retaining its tender texture. Advanced drying techniques, refined through generations, now utilise controlled environments that simulate the ideal drying conditions, ensuring consistency and safety without compromising on the traditional taste and texture of biltong.
Once the drying process is complete, the meat is scrutinised for its firmness and dryness. It's at this point that the biltong can either be sliced thinly to enjoy immediately or cut into thicker chunks for those who prefer a more substantial bite.
Biltong vs. Jerky: Key Differences
Exploring the realm of dried meat snacks, we often encounter two prominent contenders - biltong and jerky. Both offer unique flavours and textures but hail from different culinary traditions. Here, we delve into what sets these two apart, focusing on their taste, texture, and nutritional profiles. For enthusiasts eager to taste authentic South African biltong, our online store at South African Spaza Shop features a selection made by South Africans, capturing the essence of this traditional snack.
Taste and Texture Distinctions
When unraveling the differences between biltong and jerky, taste and texture are paramount. Biltong, originating from South Africa, is known for its tender and juicy texture. It's made from whole pieces of marbled steak and retains a noticeable succulence due to its air-drying process. The flavour of biltong is robust and complex, influenced by a marinade of vinegar, salt, and spices such as coriander and black pepper, which infuse the meat during its preparation.
Jerky, on the other hand, tends to be chewier and less moist compared to biltong. Its texture results from being dried with heat rather than air, often resulting in a tougher snack. The taste of jerky can vary widely depending on the marinade used but generally leans towards a simpler, smokier flavour profile due to the heat-drying process and the addition of smoke flavours in many commercial varieties.
Nutritional Comparison
Nutritionally, both biltong and jerky offer a high-protein, low-carbohydrate snack option. However, some differences arise from their respective preparation methods. Biltong's air-drying process and reliance on natural spices for preservation can result in a snack that's free from artificial preservatives and sugars. This not only contributes to biltong's distinctive taste but also implies a cleaner nutritional label with fewer additives.
Jerky, because of its drying process and sometimes extensive use of marinades, might contain higher sodium levels and added sugars, depending on the brand and flavour. While still a nutritious option when chosen carefully, consumers looking for minimal processing and additives might lean towards biltong.
In essence, whether it’s the tender, richly flavoured bites of biltong or the chewy, smoky strips of jerky, both snacks satisfy the craving for savoury treats. For those intrigued by the traditional flavours of South Africa, biltong presents a culinary experience that bridges cultures and tastes. Our selection at South African Spaza Shop offers an authentic taste of biltong, meticulously crafted by South Africans, ensuring a genuine snack experience for our customers.
Culinary Uses of Biltong
Exploring the culinary versatility of biltong opens a realm of delicious possibilities. Our journey through the beloved South African snack doesn't stop at its enjoyable taste when eaten on its own. Biltong's rich flavour profile and tender texture make it a fantastic ingredient for a variety of recipes. From traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations, biltong enhances meals with its unique taste.
Popular Biltong Recipes
Biltong's adaptability in the kitchen is remarkable. Its incorporation into diverse recipes showcases its ability to complement various ingredients, enhancing the flavour of dishes. Here are some popular biltong recipes that celebrate this South African delicacy:

1. Biltong Salad: A fresh salad mixed with thin slices of biltong, blue cheese, roasted nuts, and mixed greens, drizzled with a balsamic glaze, offers a perfect balance between the meat's rich flavour and the salad's fresh components.
2. Biltong Quiche: Integrating biltong into a quiche provides a delightful twist on the classic dish. Combined with eggs, cream, and cheese, biltong adds a savoury depth that elevates the overall taste.
3. Biltong Pizza: Sprinkling chopped biltong atop a pizza, along with ingredients like feta, avocado, and caramelised onions, creates an irresistible fusion of flavours.
4. Biltong Pâté: This creamy spread, made by blending biltong with cream cheese, butter, and spices, serves as a superb topping for crackers or toasted bread, offering a sophisticated snack or appetiser.
5. Biltong Pasta: A simple yet flavourful pasta dish can be achieved by tossing cooked pasta with sliced biltong, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a creamy sauce, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal.

For those seeking authentic flavours, our South African Spaza Shop offers biltong made by South Africans, available in our online store at Biltong. Our biltong selection promises an authentic taste experience, bringing the essence of South African culinary traditions to your kitchen. Whether you're looking to recreate traditional recipes or invent new ones, biltong adds a delicious and protein-rich element that transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary delights.
Health Benefits of Biltong
Nutritional Profile and Advantages
Biltong, a traditional South African meat snack, stands out for its impressive nutritional profile, offering a plethora of health benefits. Rich in high-quality protein, biltong supports muscle repair and growth by providing the essential amino acids needed for bodily functions. Protein is crucial for the building blocks of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, hair, and nails and aids in tissue repair. This makes biltong an excellent addition to the diet of athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to maintain a healthy physique.
Moreover, biltong is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable snack for individuals following low-carb, keto, or paleo diets. The drying process preserves many of the meat's nutrients, meaning biltong is also packed with vitamins and minerals essential for overall health. These include iron, which is vital for transporting oxygen in the blood; zinc, which boosts the immune system; and vitamin B12, necessary for brain health and energy production.
Biltong in a Balanced Diet
Incorporating biltong into a balanced diet offers several advantages. Due to its high protein content and low carbohydrate levels, biltong can help satisfy hunger and reduce cravings, aiding in weight management. Its convenience as a ready-to-eat snack makes it a practical choice for busy individuals seeking nutritious food options on the go.
For those interested in exploring the range of biltong flavours, our South African Spaza Shop offers biltong made by South Africans, available in our online store. We select high-quality, locally-sourced meats, marinated in traditional spices, then air-dried to perfection. Enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, biltong provides a tasty, nutrient-rich snack that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Discover our selection and experience authentic South African biltong by visiting South African Spaza Shop.
Biltong is not just a delicious snack but also provides significant nutritional benefits. Whether added to dishes for extra flavour or enjoyed on its own, biltong is a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.
Storing Biltong the Right Way
After exploring the joys of making and consuming biltong, it's crucial to understand how to store it properly to maintain its quality and longevity. Biltong, a South African delicacy known for its rich flavour and nutritional benefits, requires correct storage conditions to preserve its taste and freshness. Whether you've made your own or purchased it from specialists like us at the South African Spaza Shop, where we offer authentic biltong made by South Africans, storing it the right way is key.
Optimal Storage Conditions
To keep biltong at its best, it's important to store it in a cool, dry place. Moisture is the enemy of biltong, as it can lead to mould growth and spoilage. Therefore, ensuring that the storage area has good air circulation and is apart from direct sunlight helps in prolonging its shelf life. When stored and packed correctly, biltong can last for several months, making it an excellent snack for travellers and those looking for a nutritious treat that stands the test of time.
Packaging for Longevity
For optimal storage, pack biltong in breathable packaging, such as paper bags or cloth bags, which allow air to circulate while controlling moisture. Plastic bags can trap humidity, so they're best avoided unless the biltong is vacuum-sealed, which significantly extends its shelf life. If you prefer your biltong on the drier side, keeping it in a slightly more ventilated area will ensure it remains in your desired condition.
Periodic Checks
Regularly checking your stored biltong for signs of spoilage is a good practice. Fresh biltong will be deep maroon, firm to the touch yet bendy without cracking. Any deviations from this, such as an off smell, visible mould, or unusual colour changes, suggest it's time to discard it.
By following these storage tips, you'll be able to enjoy high-quality biltong whenever you crave it. And remember, for those who'd rather skip the DIY route, our online store at South African Spaza Shop offers a wide range of authentic biltong made by South Africans, ensuring you experience the true taste of this nutritious snack. Whether you're familiar with what biltong is or are a newcomer eager to try, we've got you covered.
Conclusion
We've explored the rich heritage and nutritional benefits of biltong, a delicacy that's stood the test of time from its humble beginnings to becoming a beloved snack worldwide. Understanding how to store biltong properly ensures we can enjoy its unique taste and health advantages for months. For those of us craving the authentic taste of South Africa, the South African Spaza Shop offers a convenient and reliable source of high-quality biltong. Whether we're making it at home or buying it, biltong remains a smart choice for anyone looking for a nutritious, protein-packed snack. Let's embrace this tasty tradition that's as much about culture as it is about flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is biltong still illegal in the US?
Biltong itself is not illegal in the US, but regulations require it to be brought in with a valid import certificate. Failure to present this certificate upon entry results in confiscation by Customs and Border Protection.
What part of the cow is biltong made from?
Biltong can be produced from various beef cuts, with the round cut being the most preferred due to its tenderness. The top round roast is especially recommended for its balance between tenderness and flavour.
Why is biltong so chewy?
The chewiness of biltong varies based on the fat content of the meat used. Fattier cuts result in a chewier texture, while leaner cuts offer a drier finish, allowing makers to influence the texture through their choice of meat.
Is biltong healthier than jerky?
Yes, biltong is considered healthier than jerky due to its natural taste, and it generally contains no added sugars or carbohydrates. Additionally, it has significantly less sodium, making it a better choice for those watching their intake.
Why is biltong so expensive?
The cost of biltong is attributed to the energy-intensive drying process, which requires a controlled environment for a prolonged period. Other factors include packaging, marketing, and distribution expenses, all contributing to its higher price point.

The uchiha get stick for choosing clan over village but like what can you expect when they were forced to stay together. After the kyuubi attack the uchiha weren't allowed to live outside the compound, biracial uchihas like izumi were forced to live with the other uchiha despite living outside the clan and having a father who wasn't uchiha. One of the demands that the uchiha had during the planning of the coup was for the freedom to live anywhere in the village. There was even a scene in the novel where danzo mentioned to itachi that he needs to be careful leaving the compound because the closer he gets to village centre the more he finds people who hate the uchiha and they could literally hate-crime him for it which would piss of the clan.
Speaking of Itachi, the village were very lucky he ended up being so loyal to them cause he could've easily became the most loyal member of the uchiha clan, I mean his dad is literally the leader, making him the heir. Most of his loved ones were uchiha (sasuke, shisui, izumi and his parents) and he literally gets discriminated against a couple of times in the novel for being an uchiha, for example during the academy some kid told him to apologise for being uchiha, when he was in the anbu spying on his clan one of the member didn't like him cause he was uchiha and danzo literally admitted that its not really safe for him to leave the compound and go closer to village centre as an uchiha.
Even before the nine tails you have tobirama spying on the clan and keeping them in one place. He was also responsible for creating the police force only for them and tho it was meant to be in "good faith" (it was literally created to keep them out of anbu and village centre) it still basically keeps them together since most uchiha were in it and no other clan was apart of it. Like idk I feel like tobirama should found a way to get the uchiha to mingle with others instead of uniting them even more in their hatred of him.

I ended a voice call with my friend (let's call her J) just a few minutes ago, her sadness is now getting so out of control, and it's so unfortunate that I have to say that she's the reason for her own unhappiness.
The context: J likes a guy (let's call him P) but P already has a girlfriend, and P has been with his gf for the last 2 years, their relationship is going pretty well from what I can understand. But J has also liked P for the last 6 BLOODY YEARS, she's given him innumerable hints and made endless efforts to appease him and to gain his affection but she's never been successful.
Just last week P celebrated his 2 year anniversary with his gf, and guess what J did??? SHE MADE THEIR SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY VIDEO WITH HER EDITING SKILLS AND DIDN'T EVEN RECEIVE A "THANK YOU" IN RETURN FROM P OR HIS GF, CAN U BELIEVE HOW UNGRATEFUL PEOPLE CAN BE? I myself saw that video and was spellbound, J had created such a beautiful edit with all the pics of the couple decorated with gorgeous borders and backgrounds, and P didn't even have the basic sense to thank a friend for such a generous gesture? AND THE WORST THING IS THAT MY FRIEND J DOESN'T SEE ANYTHING WRONG IN THIS SITUATION, SHE DOESN'T MIND THAT THEY WERE UNGRATEFUL TO HER AND SHE SAID SHE'S WILLING TO LISTEN TO HIS REQUESTS FURTHER, ALMOST AS IF SHE WERE A PAOD SERVANT FOR THAT DORKY GUY???
Another thing, we had organised a huge friendly get together party 2 days ago for all our school friends in which I was present alongwith J, P, and other acquaintances. I very well remember how P body shamed my friend J in front of everyone in the name of casual humour (J is actually a bit overweight, not obese at all, but P called her obese mockingly) . And in spite of all this, my friend J has been so much blinded in her "love" for P that she's willing to ignore these disgusting traits just to have him for herself.
I have ample reasons to hate on P, but why doesn't my friend J see nothing bad in him? Why does she keep on liking a jerk like him, moreover he's in a relationship already so why is she still stuck on him? Why does she shed tears every night in front of me and a few other close friends because her heart wants to have him when in fact a n idiot like him doesn't even deserve J who's perhaps one of the sweetest girls I've ever known? Can u guys please suggest ways to help me counsel J so that she can get over this stupid crush of hers?