Coffee, an authentic ritual

In Italy, coffee is way more than a simple drink: it is an authentic ritual.

And, there are certain cultural intricacies to be aware of if you are ordering coffee in any Italian café.

It is an integral part of the national identity and an expression of our society that distinguishes us around the world:

☕ Italy is the third largest coffee-consuming country in Europe with the country accounting for 11% of the total European coffee consumption.

☕ Outside the home, the preference is for independent cafes, which hold more than 90% of the Italian coffee market, while international players hold only a minuscule share.

☕ Starbucks only opened its first store in Milan, Italy in 2018.

☕ Italy has recently bid for UNESCO “intangible heritage status” for Italian espresso!

☕ Cappuccinos should never be ordered after 11am.

☕ It’s normal (and cheaper!) to sip your coffee standing up at the bar.

☕ Don’t ask for a to-go cup: coffee is sacred and should be savoured

☕ If you order a latte, prepare to be confused!

I think the former Italian Deputy Agricultural Minister, Gian Marco Centinaio, sums it up perfectly…​
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‘A cup of espresso represents a social and cultural ritual for all Italians… it excites the entire country!’

I love the simple ritual of enjoying a fresh, hot, comforting cup of coffee each morning – it’s my Italian heritage and roots!

How do you take your coffee?

A little token of appreciation goes a long way

Each week, I pour my heart into crafting content that I hope sparks inspiration, offers insights, and adds a touch of brightness to your day.

From deep-diving into industry trends to sharing tips and tricks, to our engaging discussions on your projects and assignments.

There’s a charming way to show your appreciation – as simple as the joy of sipping a warm, comforting espresso. 🌟☕

​Introducing My “Buy Me an Espresso” Page​

Your support, whether through engaging with the content, sharing insights, or now, perhaps, treating me to an espresso, means the world to me. It’s not just about the coffee (though I do love a good espresso!); it’s about the energy and resources to continue creating and sharing content that resonates with you.

If my work has sparked a moment of insight, brought a new idea, or simply made your day a bit brighter, and you feel inclined to express your appreciation, I invite you to Buy Me an Espresso. It’s a small gesture that has a big impact on the work I do.

Thank you for being a part of this wonderful journey. Every sip of espresso not only warms my heart but also fuels our shared path of discovery and growth.

Who says January is dry? Life is for enjoyment, (not restrictions), and the little treats and moments of joy, like an espresso!

Ways to be more charismatic in your profession

As we step into 2024, it’s the perfect time to enhance our personal and professional charisma.

Charisma isn’t just about being likable; it’s about making meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impression.

Here are nine ways you can boost your charisma this year:

1. Use Relatable Language: Communicate in a way that resonates with your audience. Using words that people can easily relate to breaks down barriers and builds trust.
2. Express Your Feelings: Don’t be afraid to show emotion. Sharing your feelings creates authenticity and helps others connect with you on a deeper level.
3. Talk About Potential: Focus on potential rather than just past achievements. Discussing possibilities can be more inspiring and engaging than simply listing accomplishments.
4. Mirror Your Audience: Subtly mimic the body language of the person you’re speaking to. This creates a sense of empathy and understanding.
5. Open Body Language: Keep your hands and torso open. This non-verbal cue signals that you’re approachable and receptive.
6. Bring a Dog (When Appropriate): A furry friend can make you seem more nurturing and approachable. Of course, make sure it’s suitable for the situation! (By the way my six month Cocker spaniel George says hi!)
7. Smile Genuinely: A smile is a universal sign of friendliness and warmth. It can break the ice and make others feel comfortable around you.
8. Encourage Others to Share: People love talking about themselves. By encouraging others to share their stories, you make them feel valued and interesting.
9. Match Walking Pace: When walking with someone, try to match their pace. This small gesture shows that you’re in sync with them and is seen as a sign of friendliness.

Remember, charisma is not about changing who you are; it’s about enhancing how you connect with others.

Here’s to a charismatic and successful 2024!

Barilla’s Stellar Adventure: Fusilli Flies High in a Groundbreaking Space Mission

Forget the January diet, let’s look at the culinary option from Barilla in Space!

Tomorrow (10th January), Barilla, a renowned Italian pasta brand (one of my favourites) will be sending their fusilli pasta to space as part of the Ax-3 mission to the International Space Station.

This isn’t just about giving astronauts a taste of delicious Italian pasta; it is also about important science, understanding how traditional foods like pasta can be adapted and enjoyed in the unique, zero-gravity environment of space whilst providing nutrition for the long-duration of these missions.

How incredible is that? Imagine floating in space and getting to enjoy some delicious Barilla fusilli! [I think a drizzle of extra virgin organic Italian olive oil, some salt and pepper and a garnish of basil would add that extra finesse, but appreciate it’s not possible in space… or is it?]

This initiative is a great example of how traditional Italian products can find their place even in the most extraordinary of environments, like outer space, while contributing to scientific understanding and providing a sense of comfort and normalcy to astronauts during their missions.

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Top tips for setting and keeping your New Year’s resolutions

We all start the new year with the best of intentions, making lists of resolutions in which we vow to form good habits and achieve new goals. But how many of us actually manage to keep them?

“We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are.” – Oprah Winfrey

I, for one, am determined to stay on track! As we approach 17 January (the date known as ‘Ditch New Year’s Resolutions Day’ because so many people have given up by this point!), I’ve collected some helpful tips for us all to keep in mind:

1. Prioritise

Focus on the things that will really make a difference. If you make your list too long, it will be hard to tackle everything effectively.

2. Be realistic

Make sure your resolutions are specific and achievable. It’s good to be creative and challenge yourself, but don’t let things get too vague or over-ambitious.

3. Plan

Rather than throwing a wishlist together in a rush, think ahead and include it in your strategic planning. Break down larger goals into smaller, actionable tasks to be completed throughout the year.

4. Share your goals

Why not join forces with an accountability buddy who can check in and provide encouragement? It’s well known that talking to other people about your goals and sharing your progress helps you stay committed and motivated.

5. Celebrate progress

Set milestones so you can track progress and feel a sense of achievement (maybe even get a reward?) when you reach them.

6. Stretch yourself

Don’t be afraid to try something new. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.

7. Plan downtime

Remember that it’s important to make time for you, to relax, recharge and take a break from the daily grind.

What are your goals, ambitions and resolutions for 2024? The sky is the limit!