Boycott your Bed’s Post

Can a business ever truly be itself? The recent backlash against LickiMat, following their invitation of a balanced dog trainer to Crufts, raises important questions about the challenges small businesses face in managing their public image. Despite LickiMat's harmless intention, the Force Free dog training community launched a boycott campaign, leading to a wave of negative publicity and social media outrage, with some individuals even destroying their LickiMats in protest on various social media platforms. This incident made me stop and consider the delicate balance small businesses must strike between staying true to their values and appeasing public perception. While LickiMat did not engage in any wrongdoing and the invited trainer has a clean record, the polarised reactions highlight the difficulty in navigating public opinion, especially in niche communities. It begs the question: Can a company truly be itself, or must it conform to what the public demands, even at the risk of sacrificing its authenticity?

The Interplay of Weak Ties and Strong Ties in Social Habits and Movements '"Now, when people come to Saddleback and see the giant crowds on the weekends, they think that’s our success,” Rick Warren told me. “But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Ninety-five percent of this church is what happens during the week inside those small groups. “The congregation and the small groups are like a one-two punch. You have this big crowd to remind you why you’re doing this in the first place, and a small group of close friends to help you focus on how to be faithful. Together, they’re like glue. We have over five thousand small groups now. It’s the only thing that makes a church this size manageable. Otherwise, I’d work myself to death, and 95 percent of the congregation would never receive the attention they came here looking for.” Without realizing it, Warren, in some ways, has replicated the structure that propelled the Montgomery bus boycott—though he has done it in reverse. That boycott started among people who knew Rosa Parks, and became a mass protest when the weak ties of the community compelled participation. At Saddleback Church, it works the other way around. People are attracted by a sense of community and the weak ties that a congregation offers. Then once inside, they’re pushed into a small group of neighbors—a petri dish, if you will, for growing close ties—where their faith becomes an aspect of their social experience and daily lives."' ― Charles Duhigg, The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business https://lnkd.in/dAvs5PiD #habits #continuousimprovement #growth #organizationalchange

Why does it have to be about colour? I used to ask myself this a lot. “We’re all human!” “When we bleed our blood is red.” “I don’t see colour.” “Can’t we all just be friends and stop focusing on race?” Don’t you agree? Well, if like I did, you do, then, like me, you’ve got some work to do. Because pretending it’s not about colour is a privilege that only white people have. And as long as: 🚫 70% of the 100 richest people in the world are white men. 🚫 These white men are benefiting from the slave labour of Black and Brown people. 🚫 Many of these rich white people are supporting and funding genocides against Black and Brown people. 🚫 White people are actively stealing land from Black and Brown people and refusing to give back the lands they’ve stolen in the past. It is ALL about colour and if we truly want that to change, we need to be more honest about it. So, as white people that are perfectly happy funding the lives of the white millionaires with compulsive consumerism and the best of everything. There’s something we can do that is really powerful *right now* Chose to boycott big brands for a week, a month or a year. Don’t just buy different, buy less. And put the money you save into repairing our relationships with our Black and Brown siblings of the Global Majority. Each time you’re about to buy something this weekend, think: “Would I rather fund a genocide or save a life?” And if you chose humanity, consider donating to someone or everyone in the comments. 💛🙏🍉

241116 – These days, as we are into the “throw away” generation, when things are dumped rather than repaired, not only material items, even relationships are being tossed, rather than fixed, “boycott” seems to be a choice option for many. Whether with individuals, or businesses, in personal, or professional relationships, when we are uncomfortable, or frustrated, with the connection, instead of solving the problem, we tend to abandon it. It is about giving up. This is a lose-lose option, as both parties in the relationship get nothing from it. This could be an inevitable option, if attempts have been made, to resolve the issues, but unable to do so. However, if we have not exhausted all our options, and do not want a lose-lose situation, we can put in more effort, and try harder. What is the incentive for both sides, to keep the relationship? Let that be the motivation for both parties. Think through it, and figure things out logically. Do not get emotional, when deciding. Where is the problem? Is it clear for both parties? It is not about finding the fault. It is about correcting an issue. Do not let ego, nor stubbornness, get in the way. The easy way, is to boycott, and call it quits. But most times, the easy way, is not the best way. What is the cost of the abandonment? What is the best way, that both parties involved, can accept? In any relationship, problems may not be totally eradicated. It takes commitment, and on-going efforts, to make the bond work. And for the sake of retaining the relationship, seeing the value of the connection, we must dedicate ourselves, and compel to make the relationship work. This weekend, what relationships are we committed to, to make them work. Let us not consider the easy way, by just tossing things away, when things are not ideal. => the “throw away” generation, resulting in more lose-lose situations => without commitment, unable to keep, or fix any relationship => the easy way, is usually not the best way => devoted, to make things work #throwaway #easyway #boycott #notthebestway #loselose #ego #pride #commitment #devoted #dedicated #fix #makeitwork #careertips #personalmastery #careermanagement #careermastery #personaldevelopment #personaleffectiveness

Every action counts. Even the smallest contribution, like a single drop of water, can create ripples of change. Your commitment to boycotting is powerful and essential. When you choose to boycott, you send a clear message: you will not support practices, products, or companies that go against your values. Boycotting is not just an individual act; it is a collective movement. Each person's decision to refrain from buying a certain product or supporting a particular company adds up. Together, these actions can lead to significant economic impact, pressuring companies to change their practices. When companies see their profits decline, they are more likely to listen and make ethical changes. Your participation in a boycott might feel like a small drop in a vast ocean, but remember, oceans are made of countless drops. Every time you choose to boycott, you contribute to a larger wave of social change. Your actions inspire others to join, creating a stronger, united front. Stay committed. Keep boycotting. Your efforts matter. You are part of a growing movement striving for justice, fairness, and ethical business practices. Your voice, your choice, and your actions are powerful. Together, we can make a difference. #BoycottMatters

Empty Shelves, Full Hearts: Boycotting for a Brighter TomorrowThe image we see isn't a product on a shelf, it's a child's future teetering on the brink. A gaunt face, a body robbed of its potential – a stark symbol of the human cost of a conflict sustained by our everyday choices.For far too long, Israeli products have lined our shelves, their barcodes a silent endorsement of a system that allows this suffering to fester. But what if every time we reached for those items, we felt the emptiness in the eyes of a Palestinian child?This isn't just a boycott, it's a lifeline. A chance to say, "Enough is enough." By leaving Israeli products on the shelf, we choose empathy over apathy. We choose to disrupt the status quo that fuels this human tragedy.Some may say a boycott is a small act, a mere inconvenience. But imagine the collective power of millions making the same choice. Empty shelves in our supermarkets can translate to a well-stocked pantry of hope for a generation on the brink.This isn't about politics, it's about basic human decency. Every Israeli product we purchase strengthens a system that allows children to go hungry. Can that convenience truly outweigh the weight of a child's suffering?Let's be honest, finding alternatives may require a little effort. But isn't that a small price to pay for a world where playgrounds echo with laughter, not the rattle of gunfire?Think beyond the label. See the child behind the barcode. Choose compassion over comfort. Spread awareness. Talk to your friends and family. Together, let's make a deafening silence with our empty carts, a silence that demands change.This boycott isn't about punishment, it's about progress. It's a beacon of hope, a message that the world is watching, and we will not be complicit in the suffering of innocents any longer.Let's break the cycle. Let our empty shelves become a symbol of a future brimming with possibilities, where every child, Israeli or Palestinian, can sing a lullaby of peace, not a dirge of despair

Between 2013-2019, ArtCaffe made news but not in the positive sense. The eatery was embroiled in three racism/discrimination incidents that made the rounds. These face-offs weren’t helped by the reality that the company was owned by foreigners - the echoes of colonialism & disenfranchisement still rang, & for some, still do. In case you missed them: 1. 2013, preferential treatment of our lighter coloured brethren at the Lavington Mall branch. 2. 2014, some Kenyan dude wants to buy all the croissants at ArtCaffe Village Market (I jest) — just 50% of the stock — & a terse conversation occurs because ArtCaffe is unprepared for the order. Allegedly, diplomatic police dove in to ArtCaffe’s rescue. According to the bakery, the issue was process not race. According to Kenyans, it was the reverse. 3. 2019, “Art Of The City” campaign & the toxic word in the artistic world, “exposure”. In this instance the establishment would pay the winner of the competition with the honour of having their art displayed in the restaurants locations, a year’s supply of coffee & a chance to design a mug for the chain. Brilliant they thought. Boo Kenyans yelled. For all three, ArtCaffe apologised, reworked their PR & went on with their business. To the Twitterati, this was unforgivable cultural misalignment. ArtCaffe couldn’t survive. The boycott would drive them back over the hills from whence they came. But, did the customer care? Nope. Now, do those involved deserve empathy? Absolutely. However, the rational person knows that social media blows up every negative occurrence a million fold. Calm down. Chill. Breathe. People, companies screw up. & there’re always two sides to a story. Secondly, for the thousands of middle-upperclass people who at minimum spend 500 bob for a cup of coffee & a flaky pastry at ArtCaffe, they feel the service is decent. They wouldn't go there otherwise. For them, what matters is the experience not a slice of salted caramel cake. This kind of clientele doesn’t protest on X or TikTok - they voice displeasure by shopping elsewhere. Thirdly, ArtCaffe have a good thing going on. The volcano (IYKYK), the ambience, the hard-to-get cheeses you find at their market. It’s Java with swag - at similar pricing. I remember asking the COO of ArtCaffe what he/they thought about the art campaign blunder & he shrugged it off. He obviously knew more about his company than I did, knew his customer better than I did & was willing to ride the blowback. More than ten years after the first racism charge, ArtCaffe chugs along. The lesson here is simple; know yourself & your customer, be honest & contrite when you mess up & provide consistent value. The rest will take care of itself. #Brand #Customer

Struggling to Make Ends Meet? Here’s How to Push Back Against Tough Times Do you ever long for those carefree days? Maybe it was your teens, like mine, hanging out at a local pool hall, laughing with friends, playing your favourite songs on the jukebox, flirting with possibilities, and feeling that boundless sense of freedom. Back then, the world felt lighter. Fast forward to today—it feels like a different reality. Inflation makes it harder to cover basics, the cost of living is skyrocketing, and we’re taxed so heavily that we work half the year before seeing a dime for ourselves. To top it off, crime rates and economic instability leave us feeling like we can’t even enjoy simple pleasures, like a picnic in the park, without worry. But here’s the truth: You’re not alone. Many professionals, families, and entrepreneurs across Canada feel the weight of these times. The freedoms we used to take for granted seem like distant memories as we navigate rising costs, restricted rights, and an uncertain future. The good news? We’re not powerless. When times get tough, it’s easy to slip into nostalgia, wishing for better days, but there are tangible steps we can take to reclaim a sense of control and community. Vote with Your Dollars You can make your voice heard through where you spend your money. Boycott greedy corporations, support local businesses and participate in movements like those on TikTok. Consumer power is accurate, and we can send a strong message together. Tap into Your Resources—Your Local MP Your MP can assist with everything from tax concerns to finding business grants. Reach out and see how they can help. You have advocates who can support you. Get Informed, Stay Savvy With so much misinformation, staying informed with independent sources is crucial. Avoid propaganda and opt for reliable media. I’ve found Blendr News to be a valuable source that’s crowd-funded and free from government influence. Lend a Helping Hand Consider giving back to your community. Many families are skipping meals just to keep a roof over their heads. Whether donating warm clothing or supporting local food banks, every bit helps. The power of community can bring back that sense of belonging we miss. Use Your Voice for Change Change is possible, but it starts with us. Stay informed, vote, and take action to shape the future we want. Engage with your neighbours, participate in local movements, and stand up for the life you deserve. Times are tough, but we can restore that sense of freedom and possibility together. Let’s not wait for change to come—we can create it. Whether through strategic spending, political involvement, or helping those in need, we can make a difference. The lighthearted days may seem far away, but we can reclaim that spirit. Step by step, we can build a future where freedom and fun aren’t just memories but part of our lives again. #TakeBackControl #FightInflation #StandForChange #ReclaimFreedom #PowerInUnity

As Rightmove continues its ruthless strategy of hiking fees by 20% or more a year, I often speak to agents who wistfully reminisce about ye goode olde days (the ‘90s/00's). Back then, they say with an occasional catch in their throats, there was a much more balanced relationship between themselves and the media they advertised in.   In fondly-recalled battles of yore, they vividly describe early-evening meetings in the upstairs room of The Dog & Duck, where all of the cut-throat local agent competitors would down their combative clipboards and commit, en masse, to boycott a particular publication unless it agreed to do what they wanted (cut ad costs, increase property editorial, etc). Thus, the dominant (often monopolistic) local newspaper was tamed and uneasy truces maintained – until the next time one party decided to try and change anything significant.   These reminiscences sprang to mind this week, when reading about a UK property portal facing the exact same sort of agent pressure to stop a hefty price increase. This is #PropertyPal, the dominant portal in Northern Ireland, where an agent-led posse strolled up to the new CEO and told him that they’d stop putting all of their new properties on the site, unless he reconsidered price increases of up to 45%. What’s interesting about this story – which made #BBC News – is that it worked.   In a fascinatingly-worded release, the agent ‘steering group’ announced that it had secured “an undertaking by PropertyPal that if ANYTHING happens it will be discussed in advance of it happening and our opinions sought” (my emphasis). ‘Anything’ is a lot of ‘thing’ that could ‘happen’.   PropertyPal was brave-faced about the situation, celebrating a “mutual desire for a positive resolution and to move forward constructively.” You can almost picture the bloodied CEO stumbling out of that meeting, frantically calling the Finance Director and telling her, between sobs, that they know where he lives – and they were going to make the images look AWFUL if he dared to try and sell it in the future, unless he agreed to their demands. Of course, the success of the PropertyPal anti-heist drives dreams that – perhaps? – this might also be possible with #Rightmove.   But there’s always one. The agent that nods along and promises to come off too, then turns tables and uses their competitors’ absence from RM as a marketing tool to win them more valuations. There is a lesson here, however – if you can make it stick, then it works.   Rightmove’s 70%+ margin becomes a risk if enough agents just refuse to pay more. With #CoStar’s #OnTheMarket becoming more of a compelling platform – and even #Zoopla making a decent recent play based on its (in my biased view) unmatched data chops, perhaps there is hope that RM’s determination to grab almost all agents’ profits can be resisted.   It would take a heck of a lot of coordination. But, if it worked in one part of the UK, why couldn’t it work in another? #ModelProp #AI #Property