Nazirene Hassen

Exactly that…I am a mom to 3 kids, it's what makes me an expert at researching almost anything and everything. Technically speaking, parents are probably very high up on the list when it comes to doing research, we are absolutely lost when those little one's are asleep and in those moments, the internet becomes our best friend! (Shhhh! Parent code) The truth is, after a long day of exhaustion, our brains become fried and I swear if anyone ever asked me the answer to 1+1 right after putting the kids to bed, I would absolutely malfunction. So, it lead me to the realization that I have become an expert at doing research. How? Well…it will sound complicated, but here's how I mastered the art of research: Be prepared, by this, I mean charge those phones, laptops, make sure your devices/technology is ready to go when you need it. Choose your words wisely…example: If your little one is running a fever and you are alone, do not search for “what to do when my little one has a fever" Google might return the following: “See a doctor". Instead use words that best describe the situation, example: “Home remedy for high fevers" this search will return results that can be used at home as an interim solution. Keep your emotions in check! NEVER search with feelings like: “I'm dying, I need a break" (seriously try it and tell me what you come up with) I've had tips on reviving a dying relationship  One thing will lead you to another, stay focused. Often times we search for something and it has related searches that pop up or suggested searches, trust me, this has lead me to reading up on something totally irrelevant to what I originally searched for. Tip: Stay true to what you need to know. Try all methods of research. In today’s life it is so easy to pick up a device and find answers, however, those very sources might be unreliable at times. There are some many variations of a story or article online and it may confuse you all together. Visit your local library on your afternoon stroll with the kids, there is nothing better than going through the pages of history (depending on the topic), you may not want to use this as your only source, but at times it will confirm some of what you are reading online. Use your support group at home. I often pick the brains of others around certain topics, there are several topics that are debatable or dependant on the opinions of others, a support group can be one way to getting those opinions together. Tip: Remain biased and always act in the interest of all parties when forming a conclusion, remember you are only the researcher. Edit, edit and edit again. Be sure to check your spelling and grammar, there are so many convenient programs available, such as www.grammarly.com that can help you with your spelling. Most importantly , find quiet time to check your work, no good words can come from tramping on a Lego block or being thrown by a piece of broccoli. Now if you've read this far into my article, you would have already come to the conclusion that you are, indeed a master of research, but just in case you are a bit worried, here is why I know you are: 1. If you are reading this, you are top of the master log, it would take an absolute genius to find this article on the internet, I have not published it anywhere. 2. As a parent, every time I have been in a pickle, research saved me. I have read about how to remedy every ailment, what to cook for dinner, how to trick my husband into doing all the choirs, how to relax and sometimes, just sometimes, I search whatever comes to mind. 3. I could write a book on DIY projects (tried, tested and failed), I have read up on the affairs of many countries, researched various topics related to the job market, climate, economy and I know you have too. 4. Now here's the one thing we are absolutely know for as parents…Social Media, our way of connecting with the world, “living a little". If you are guilty of doing this, you are absolutely learning a million things every second you are on any Social Media platform and yes the relationship status of others counts too! Here's my conclusion, I am a mom and I know loads about research, in fact, I have just used another method of research known as “my own life experiences", no internet and no books required. It has made me realize that I could be using my skills to earn some extra income, be of assistance to others and learn more and more every day. Is this even possible? https://start.askwonder.com/researcher/application/start that’s your answer! Make this the next search in your search engine and very soon your thumbs will be twiggling to complete an article just like I did and whether you are paid or not, hired or not, you will enjoy every second of it! Now go on…show the world that “ Mom's are master researchers!” (In my superhero screaming voice)