Everyone is looking for ways to be less tired, more productive and healthier. I’m here to let you know that there is a way to avoid your afternoon slump, fly through the stack of papers at your desk while being a healthier person and it involves eating.

So, you already know about 5 fruits and vegetables a day but are you ready for 10? Yes, 10 fruits and vegetables a day, 10 times more than just your apple a day to keep the doctor away. New research has shown that eating 10 servings of fruit and veg a day can greatly reduce the risks of heart disease and cancer while giving you a better sleep – it’s a win-win. 

Now 10 servings may sound like a lot (especially if you’re not hitting your 5 already) but the serving size is 80 grams, it’s achievable. It’s not all spinach and brussels sprouts either – though they are recommended – but citrus fruits, apples and pears as well as carrots, beans and broccoli are included in the mix that should regularly be consumed. 

Though consuming the classic 5 a day is still highly beneficial, try to slowly increase your intake until you hit 10. You can add another fruit or veg in each week and remember that it’s not all boring bowls of salad or steaming plates of boiled vegetables. It’s as simple as swapping out an unhealthy snack (like the biscuits that always seem to be in the breakroom) for a banana or carrot. Or try swapping your secret stash of muesli bars in your desk for some fresh fruit. 

Some risks were lowered by as much as 31% though, which does make consuming 10 servings feel worthwhile. Why would you not want to lower your cholesterol, reduce your blood pressure and boosts your immune system? This means less sick days and less stress about falling behind on your work.

But aside from life-changing health benefits, you’ll have more sustainable energy to get you through the day. This will increase your productivity and concentration so you can pull through your work-day with no afternoon slump. Eating a higher intake of fruit and vegetables has also been shown to increase your creativity – your problem-solving skills will be at an all-time high.

Our August Ride Week has come to a close and the event has raised over $59,000 for 5 Australian charities. 

This August event week we had 7 companies jump on the bike and cycle their heart out to help us #quitthesit. Over 370 riders cycled the total distance of 4231km – that’s longer than a drive from Darwin to Perth!

Congratulations to Liberty Financial who rode the furthest distance with over 960km – that’s a bit further than a drive from Brisbane to Sydney. 

Next congratulations to Commonwealth Bank at Sydney and Parramatta for the most funds raised. This is the second year in a row they have taken out this prestigious title! 

For these events, we were lucky to have a wonderful group of volunteers who took many photos of the smiling, sweaty faces of the riders. Here are some of the highlights including envious views, young supporters and, our favourite, the funny costumes!

 

Fundraising for a cause close to your heart can be very fulfilling but it can also be hard. There are so many amazing causes out there to give to that people are overwhelmed with choice. How do you make your cause stand out so you can do your part? The way people fundraise continues to change so it is important to stay up-to-date with these changes. One platform that is overlooked when it comes to fundraising is social media. 

Social media plays a larger role in fundraising than you may think. As social media continues to grow and you find yourself browsing endlessly through it, chances are you have seen and interacted with a charity on the platform. This can be liking or commenting on a post or liking their page.  Chances are you also have a friend/family member fundraise on social media – or maybe you are that member asking for donations on social media. 

Whether you are fundraising for your chosen charity for Tour de Office or another charity event, here are some things you should know about social media fundraising:

93% of donations that come through social media are from Facebook

Facebook is a wonderful platform to be asking for donations and sharing your fundraising journey. If you are fundraising as a business, it’s beneficial to use your reach on social media to maximise profits while still interacting through other channels. You’re able to tell your story as a business, and build rapport with your community. 

If you’re fundraising as an individual it’s a great way to connect with family and friends you may not reach out to by other means. Tell them your story, let them know what this charity means to you and how your funds can help.

92% of non-profits are on Facebook

Make sure you find who you are fundraising for and tag them in your post. Many are willing to add support to your post and here at Tour de Office, we love to share our followers content.

Since 2012 there has been an 81% increase of donations coming from sharing a donation link on social media.

Make sure you’re sharing your donation link to receive donations. Most charities make it super easy for you with social media icons you can click on to share your donation link instantly. 

Social media allows you to use visuals that can help capture the eye of your future donors. Visuals are a great way to make sure your post is being seen. You can share pictures of the event if you have done it before or, if not, share pictures of the charity you are helping to raise awareness.

Also, remember that social media is fast and free. Now go get fundraising!