Work Smart Live Smart with Beverly Beuermann-King

Listen to today's podcast... But the little boy said…There are so many colors in the rainbow. So many colors in the morning sun. So many colors in the flowers and I see every one. I love this song by Harry Chapin.  March is Colour Therapy Month and it reminds me that soon, the snow will leave us and the amazing colours of spring will surface.  These colours make me smile, they pick me up and they put the world back into perspective. Research has found that colour does impact our mood.  Colour therapy itself, is an energy healing method that has been used for thousands of years. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Colour Therapy Month: Deep breathing and visualization are powerful strategies that can calm and heal us.  You may want to vary this by using Colour Breathing.  While breathing in and out, the participant visualizes the various colours of the rainbow filling their body and then being released.  Red, orange and yellow come up from the ground through the body, to the top and leave through the ground.  Green is visualized coming in horizontally from the world to fill your body and then leaves out the back, while blue and violet come in from the head, to the toes and back out to the sky. Here are a couple favourites from the Colour Therapy Month website: Eat a salad that contains all 7 colors of the rainbow. Take a color therapy bath. Mix and drink your favorite colorful cocktail or fruit smoothie. Create a flower display of all the 7 rainbow colors. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Do you drink more than four cups of coffee a day? Do you often find yourself irritable, depressed or disoriented after drinking caffeinated beverages? When you don't drink caffeine do you find yourself experiencing headaches, drowsiness, or insomnia? National Caffeine Awareness Month draws attention to the risk associated with caffeine. At 200 mg of caffeine, you can experience irritability, restlessness, tension, insomnia, excitement, and gastrointestinal disturbance. If you consume more than 1 gram (1000 mg), you can receive irregular heartbeats, panic and anxiety disorders, muscle twitching, and incoherent speech. And, believe it or not, when you ingest more than 5 grams, the results can be fatal. Caffeine has a half-life of about six-hours. That means that if your 4 o'clock cup of coffee contains 200 mg of caffeine, by 10 o'clock that night, there will still be 100 mg of caffeine in your body, preventing you from falling into a deep and restful sleep. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Caffeine Awareness Month: Look at what you consume – caffeine is often a hidden ingredient in some of our favourite foods. Be aware of how much caffeine you are consuming in a day. Look at why you consume certain caffeinated drinks. Is it the flavour, the social aspect, the energy boost, or is it out of thirst or boredom? The answer will help you to determine if there is a healthier way to fill that need. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency, take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Long ago are the days where the onset of spring meant that housewives everywhere, opened the windows, shook out the rugs and cleared out the closets. Usually, we are far too busy to dedicate a week or even a couple of days just to tackle spring cleaning. Many of us have forgotten that spring cleaning can improve our mood. Apparently, just like other types of exercise, the act of cleaning causes our bodies to release endorphins. And using lemon-scented cleaning products can help you de-stress as studies show that a citrus smell reduces stress and leaves a positive impression on others. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Here are my Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Spring-Cleaning Week: Don't let other people should all over you, you get to decide what spring cleaning may look like for you. Pick one thing a week that you would like to tackle – it could be just the front closet or the upstairs windows. Enlist the help of family members. My long-time friend Laurie challenged her kids to organize her family photos. Find a way to get and keep your organization. Get rid of clutter. If it is not necessary – get rid of it and let someone else clean around it. With less to think about, there is bound to be less stress related to your physical space. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency. Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... It can give us life and it can kill us. Give us pleasure and cause fear. It can be found everywhere and in 20 years half of us may not have enough of it. It's more valuable than gold. People are dying to have it. What is it? Water It makes up to 78% of our body. To function properly, the body requires around two litres of water per day to avoid dehydration. It is the most important nutrient to our body. It is rather difficult to drink too much water, but it is dangerous to drink too little. Scientists have estimated that by 2030, in some regions of the world, water demand will exceed supply by 50%. We take water for granted. Everyone pollutes it without thinking of the consequences and many of us waste it without thinking of how valuable it is. Humans can live without food for several weeks, but we would be in dire straits without water, even for only a couple a days. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating World Water Day: Plastic water bottles are convenient but a huge waste of resources and pollute our planet.  Look for alternatives.  Use the water fountain.  Take water in a reusable container. Turn the water off when brushing your teeth. Make sure your taps aren't leaking. Don't pollute what you have. Look for biodegradable detergents and cleaners to run in your shower, dishwasher and washing machine. Want to check out more health and wellness related celebrations, visit my wellness calendars under the resources and courses tab at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Marilyn Monroe said, “I never said I was a good girl.” If you want to be a bad, then you've got to embrace the look and the attitude. Being bad is an art. One site I looked at, said that bad girls rock the sexy shoe. Apparently flip flops don't cut it. And sunglasses create an aura of mystery. Not sure my prescription progressive sunglasses count. I also learned that my flannel pjs just don't cut it. Better to go black leather. Can't see it. I am not into bows and ruffles, but I do like my jammies. I am not really hitting it out of the ballpark on this Be Bad Day. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Be Bad Day that may help you step into your Bad self: Being Bad is about being confident. Confident to express yourself in any way, shape or form that you see appropriate. You are not afraid to try something new, even if it isn't for everyone. Being confident is about being able to say what you want and go after what you need. It is not about stepping on others to get there, but it is showing the persistence to make it happen. Being confident attracts people to you. You aren't afraid to talk to others. Being bad means that you can rely on your friends and step into your independence when you need to. You have your own interests and know how to take care of yourself. Being bad, means that you are a survivor. So, I might have a little bad in me…after all Joan Jett was one of my rocker heros. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... I am so done with winter. It is wearing on my nerves and making me seriously want to move to another country – preferably with snow only in the remotest of locations…just in case I do want to see it again. But that is not likely. Today is Snowman Burning Day. It is a day to celebrate the changing of season and where we hopefully can soon leave winter behind us. I am not sure that burning a snowman will bring me some spring juju, but at this point I am willing to try. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Snowman Burning Day: If you can't burn a snowman, try encouraging that spring feeling by bringing home some blooms. Even if it is not spring outside yet, some bright flowers can make the day shine a little brighter Make sure you have space to welcome spring into your home. Clear clutter from your display areas, closets, drawers and storage spaces. Donate, recycle or sell unused and unwanted clothing and household items. Host a Spring Party and break out the BBQ. Getting together with friends or family can lift some of the winter gloom. Finally, my favourite choice. Go out for ice cream. Nothing says good-bye to winter more than enjoying an ice cream cone. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Laughter Is Good For Us – So Why Don't We Use It More? It has been shown that laughter (not just a quick giggle) reduces physical and emotional tension. Muscles tense in laughter and then relax profoundly for as long as 45 minutes. The more hearty, the more relaxing it is and the longer the positive effect. Laughter helps the body to produces endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. A good belly laugh can stimulate your internal organs, increase your circulation, raise the level of oxygen in the blood and boost the immune system. A group of researchers found that laughing boisterously 100 times a day will give you the same effects as 10 minutes of rowing or 15 minutes on an exercise bike. We know intrinsically that laughter is good for us, yet as we get older our laugh quota drops further and further. As adults, we need to examine what happened to our playful, fun, humourous side. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Let's Laugh Day: Find funny friends and co-workers and make it a point to hang out with them Go old school and read the comics Watch funny TV programs, movies and videos Being able to laugh gives us the physical energy and mental resilience needed to survive. Smile, Laugh Large and Fight ‘Terminal Seriousness'. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... My parents weren't perfect. As a new parent, I knew I was going to be a better parent than my own.  I was going to be kinder, hug more, talk more, connect more, love more. And my children would appreciate me, know that I was always fair, never ‘hate' me, and never doubt my love for them. Reality can be painful.  The realization that there is no such thing as a perfect parent, that no one had perfect parents, that you are not going to be the perfect parent and that no matter what, your children are going to take you for granted, think that you are unfair, ‘hate' you for the decisions that you've made and will probably doubt how much you love them at some point, is all part of our maturing process. Parenting is not easy.  We wing it, just like our parents did.  This realization can lead us to forgiveness. Sometimes there is a little to get past, sometimes there is a lot to forgive.  Sometimes the hurt and damage run very deep.  Hanging on to this ‘baggage' is damaging.  It can damage your current and future relationships.  Forgiveness is not forgetting.  It is awareness and it is moving forward.  The past can never be re-written.  But sometimes forgiveness allows the future to be much brighter. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Forgive Mom and Dad Day: In my teens, I wanted to change my parents.  As I got older, I have grown to accept them for who they were and are today.  They were not perfect, but they have some really good qualities.  Now, I see them through the eyes of my children.  They love their grandparents, the way I loved mine. When I look back, I see that they don't carry that same baggage when they see their grandparents as I do when I see them as my parents. They greet my parents with excitement and enthusiasm.  They laugh and joke around.   Now, I try too. Forgiveness is essential to living a healthy life. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... In spite of illness and in spite of difficult life circumstances, we all know someone who seems to not let those things take over the rest of their world.  It is not that they are blind to the impact that these things are having on their life, but they are choosing not to let these things be their entire life.  They choose to see happiness and miracles around them.  They appreciate the love and kindness they are offered.  They are eager to share that love and kindness with others. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Act Happy Day: The more that we focus on things to be happy about, the more evidence we find that there are things to be happy about. Belief creates reality. Become your ideal person.  How would a happy person act? Happiness is inside us. We have control over what side of the line we focus our attention on. It is not that bad stuff doesn't happen, but along with the difficult times of life, there is always a positive or beautiful side of life just waiting to be discovered.  Live with an attitude of gratitude.  What are you thankful for? How can you show that gratitude to those around you? Today, look for the good, the amazing and the awesome. Today act happy – not to be untrue to yourself – but by being more perceptive of the good. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... We are becoming more self-centered and Narcissistic. “Selfie” was Oxford dictionary's Word of the Year in 2013. Since then, it's become a serious preoccupation. The cultural phenomenon of the ‘selfie' exposes a very basic human desire — to feel noticed, appreciated and recognized. Our addiction to selfies has turned deadly and selfie-related incidents now top shark attacks when it comes to unusual ways to die! One study in the U.K. revealed that women between the ages of 16 and 25 spent an average of five hours a week taking selfies. Research shows that selfies can make us feel lousy about ourselves to the point where we photoshop and filter our selfies in an effort to be picture perfect. How many pictures have you looked at and wonder why the person adjusted the picture so much that it no longer looks like the real thing? However, it is hard not to love the ego boost from sharing a selfie because of the positive comments we usually get. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating No Selfies Day: To celebrate today is easy – all you have to do is NOT participate in taking selfies! Be in the moment, rather than trying to capture and edit it. Finally, be careful that you are not falsely praising and reinforcing selfies that are over-processed. For more information on coping with mental health issues, sign up for one of my on-line courses at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Growing up on a dairy farm, I know first-hand how stressful this occupation can be. It is an all-encompassing lifestyle. Two-thirds of farmers say that they are stressed, with 20% saying that they are very stressed. Shortcuts or inattention can lead to disaster. Farmers are resilient. Stuff happens…to everyone…and you move on. Though there is a lot of complaining about what is going on around them, most couldn't imagine living or making a living any other way. Those that can't live this way, don't last and move on. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Canadian Agricultural Safety Week: Think Safety First. During Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, the message is that awareness is the key to staying healthy and safe on the farm. Know your priorities.  Don't let the business of farming become such a focus that you forget the connection to your family and friends, or the importance of your health. Finally, It is not a weakness to connect with others. In days gone by, it was a given that you had to rely on your community for survival. It is important that you have enough supports in your support circle in order to be resilient. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Millions are too sleepy for sex, according to a poll by the National Sleep Foundation. Many of us are sleeping poorly which is causing us to be sleep deprived, and it's taking a serious toll on professional relationships, productivity, public safety and even the most intimate aspects of our lives. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Sleep Awareness Week: A short nap of 20 minutes can help to improve mood, alertness and performance. It can be extremely effective at eliminating fatigue-related accidents and injuries. A 90-minute nap can be extremely effective, if you can schedule it into your day. Naps can be typed into three different categories: Planned napping involves taking a nap before you actually get sleepy. Emergency napping occurs when you are suddenly very tired and cannot continue with the activity you were originally engaged in. Habitual napping is practiced when a person takes a nap at the same time each day. I love my naps and I need my naps. They help me through my afternoon slump and allow me to carry on with my projects in a more productive and creative way afterwards. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Over half of drivers say that they have driven drowsy in the past year. Many of us are sleeping poorly which is causing us to be sleep deprived. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency So Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating World Sleep Day: Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Follow a regular schedule each night. This trains your body and brain and promotes relaxation. Do not adjust your ritual over the weekend. Do not nap if you have trouble sleeping, unless there is a need for alertness. Keep your room cool, dark, and block noises. Allow for thorough ventilation in the room to avoid breathing stale air The power of suggestion can be a powerful aid in getting a better sleep, especially if used in conjunction with deep breathing. The more that it is used, the more potent the effect it has. Suggestion works by gently reminding your mind. Try “Calm, Peaceful, Sleep, Dream” Do not tell yourself how tired you are going to be the next day, as this kind of suggestion is just as fulfilling  A good night's sleep can mean the difference between coping effectively with the daily stressors of life and completely losing your mental and physical health. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... I admit that I love the satisfaction after I have cleaned my office or purged my files. You don't have to be self-employed or work from home to have a home office. It's easy for this workspace to become messy, dusty, cluttered, and disorganized. As you work in your home office, things stack and layer around until one day, you realize that it has gotten way out of hand. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Organizing Your Home Office Day tomorrow: Start off small. Pick five things and throw them out or return them to their proper location. File, Shred or recycle unwanted paperwork that is sitting on your desk. Attack one file drawer at a time. Purge out-dated documents or notes. Take stock of those things in your office of everything you're no longer using, especially unused or broken office equipment, and cut back to only the essentials. Curb Cable Clutter. Use a surge-protected power bar to prevent your computers and other equipment from frying during an electrical storm or other power surge. Bind the remaining cables together with cable ties, so they stay out of your way. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency, take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... How many of us couldn't use an extra hour each day? Planning before starting each day, is said to save us this hour, as we are more effective at using the time that we have. Sometimes though we just can't seem to get our act together. Maybe we just can't seem to get past our urge to procrastinate. It may be that we are being too perfectionistic, or we dislike the task or person that we have to work with. We could be too tired or fear that we might fail. Sometimes it is just a matter of the task not being a part of our goals and priorities. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Procrastination Week: To Avoid Procrastination, we need to: Find the answer to ‘What's In It For Me”. Why do I need to accomplish the task at hand and what benefit will there be for me when I finish it? Chunk your time – set a timer. The timer helps you to become more realistic about how long various tasks take. Watch out for time gobblers – internet, email, TV, phone, socializing, unimportant notices and forwards Delegate when the task is not part of your priority. Not everything has to be done or should be done by you. Let go of your need to control everything. Make it fun by rewarding yourself. It is easier to start and finish a task if there is a reward at the end of it…by the way, my chocolate covered almonds are waiting for me as soon as I finish this flash briefing. Till tomorrow have a wonderful day! #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Today is the International Day of Awesomeness! This day gives us the opportunity to celebrate every person, place, thing, or idea in the world that is awesome. I encourage all of the participants in my workshops to look for the awesome. As the official tag line points out, “No one's perfect, but everyone can be awesome.” Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating International Day Of Awesomeness: Today is the day to both perform and celebrate feats of awesomeness. Celebrate by posting about someone who epitomizes the ideals of awesomeness. It may be a family member, friend, or colleague who receive this special recognition. Be curious. Start a conversation with someone that you have seen everyday, but have not talked to. You may be surprised by their story or by the things that you have in common.  It will brighten their day — and yours. Build an awesome workplace, one smile at a time. Explore the “What If”. What if we didn't do blank anymore? What if we changed blank? What if we started blank? See where the answers take you. This simple exploration could improve your relationships or your workplace. Wishing you an awesome day! #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Help! It's Panic Day. This awareness day is not about panic attacks or panic disorder which is serious and affects 2-3% of the population. Today is the day to examine how we may over-react to the stress in our everyday lives and to find strategies that will keep us focused and healthy. You know the over-reactions that we are talking about.  We even have sayings that go with them… such as don't cry over spilled milk… Or don't make mountains out of mole hills. Anxiety and stress have their place in our life. They help us to avoid danger. They keep us thinking and being creative. And they keep us on our toes so that we don't become complacent. The point at which worry becomes unhealthy is when it stops pushing us to act and move forward.  This panic can be paralyzing and prevent us from thinking clearly enough to find the best strategies to deal with the source of our anxiety. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Panic Awareness Day: Listen to the way that you describe the situations that you find yourself in.  Do you use extreme-type words?  Do you awfulize everything?  Choose the words carefully.  Evaluate how you are feeling in relation to the situation.  Are you feeling helpless or hopeless?  Notice what happens to your body when you feel this way.  Where does it hit you the most?  Try different relaxation techniques to combat those anxious feeling. Evaluate the situation to see what options you have.  Keep yourself moving forward in the problem-solving mode and the anxiety will be kept in check. What is your release?  Sometimes we need a quick strategy to release the anxiety so that we can start to problem solve.  This may include a good scream, a run, or a round or two on the punching bag. For more information on coping with mental health issues, sign up for one of my on-line courses at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

In most of Canada, Daylight Saving Time begins at 2:00 a.m. local time on the second Sunday in March. Today! I have a hard time with these adjustments. I love having it brighter in the evenings, but that adjustment to darkness early in the morning again makes it less likely that I am springing out of bed…for a while any way. Daylight saving time isn't all bad. In fact, when we move an hour ahead, we enjoy more daytime hours, which hopefully we are using to get outside, connect and just become more active after the sluggishness of winter. There are definite other benefits to the clocks shifting, including decreased oil and energy usage. Daylight Saving Time seems to decrease the risk for accidents in the evening hours. However, a Swedish study found that heart attacks were significantly more common the first three weekdays after our spring transition. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating the switch to Daylight Saving Time: Though it's only one day, daylight saving time can throw off your entire schedule, and the sleep effects tend to linger for a few days. Therefore it is important to take note of the impact that the clock shifting has on your sleep, mood and focus. Ensure that you are getting a good night's sleep before this occurs to minimize the impact of this shift. More light can equal more time to do what you want or need to do, which equals a happier you. Make use of the extra daylight and enjoy the changing seasons. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr    

Listen to today's podcast... Running a small business can be very stressful. One of the keys to success, is to be able to reach your customers. But it can be difficult to break through the noise, so that your customers know that you even exist. It can be just as difficult to be heard at work by your boss, or even within your family. Our minds are being constantly bombarded by messaging from other brands and social media, from colleagues and from friends and family. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Be Heard Day: Get to the point…you have 8 seconds! One website suggests that we are exposed to around 4,000 to 10,000 messages per day and less than 100 of those messages will be remembered. Human attentions spans are at an all-time low dropping from 12 seconds to less than 8 seconds. The key to cutting through the noise is through short messages. Use visuals. We process visuals faster than text and we remember visuals more than text. Create a picture in the mind of your listener if you can't use a visual. Provide value first. People are most engrossed in their own self-interest, so play into that. Make it about them, their needs, goals, wants and desires. Relate it to their own history, situation, reputation and behavior. As a small company, what do you do to make it easy to work with you? How do you assist your boss or colleagues before presenting issues or problems? Do they only hear negative comments or issues from you? In your family, do praise and recognize the positives or is all your communication negative? Want to check out more health and wellness related celebrations, visit my wellness calendars under the resources and courses tab at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... We are missing out on living life, the more we have our noses buried in our phones or spend time chronicling our every move through Facebook and Instagram. Not to mention that constant connectivity negatively affects your sleep, takes a toll on your mental health and can lead to burnout. Ditching your devices gives your brain a much-needed rest. Have you tried to disconnect, but FOMO took over? Could you go unplugged for 24 hours? Do you check your phone or social media out of boredom or procrastination? Maybe it is time for a detox? Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Day Of Unplugging: Unplugging allows us to connect with ourselves, our loved ones and our communities in real time.  Take a walk out in nature today. Check out the parks, countryside or stroll along a beach, even if there is still snow on it. Share a meal with friends or family. Play together. Try a board game or use conversation starters like ‘would you rather' to create some fun. Write a gratitude list. Meditate and fully relax. This can leave you feeling less stressed, and positively change your brain. Immerse yourself in the moment. Take in the awesomeness of a sunset without Instagramming it. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... It's not a bird. Nor a plane…It's the Telecommuter! A survey of employees who telecommute three days a week experienced a 46% decrease in stress, 45% increase in job satisfaction, and 30% increase in job productivity.   In addition, telecommuting provides an opportunity to create a more harmonious balance between home and work commitments. Three-quarters of employees polled said the ability to work from home was their most desired family-friendly job perk. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Telecommuter Appreciation Week: For some, telecommuting may be a viable option that allows for an increase in productivity and more sense of control over when tasks get accomplished. If you think that this is for you, sit down with your work team and discuss how this may be implemented.  If telecommuting isn't the answer, at least you have opened the door to looking for other alternatives to maintaining work and life balance. Though I am not a true telecommuter, I am an entrepreneur with a home-based office.  I appreciate the flexible work arrangements that I have.  Some days, I work all day and into the evening.  On other days, I may find myself helping out a family member or pulling the weeds from my gardens.  This flexibility gives me the balance that I want and need. Want to find more strategies to coping with stress? Check out my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Everyone has problems that they need to deal with. Because problems can cause anxiety, many people will try to avoid, ignore or procrastinate when dealing with difficult issues in their lives. Ignoring them is useful sometimes. Unfortunately, with most problems, avoiding them just causes them to come back, and a small problem can become a big problem over time. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Do Something Day: The most difficult step in problem solving is getting to the doing part. To help you carry out your solution, make an action plan. If you know how you are going to carry out your solution, you are more likely to follow through. Don't let your own voice derail you. Be aware of and challenge negative self-talk that can stop you from moving forward. List all the obstacles. Great problem solvers take a high-level view of the issues and list of all the potential factors that could get in the way of implementing their solution so that they don't get taken off task. Want to find more strategies to coping with stress? Check out my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Yesterday was the day to encourage each other, to avoid selfishness, and do something to make other people happy. I know that you can't make someone happy, but you can remind them of their value and you can help change their focus, all of which can allow their happiness to flourish. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating I Want You To Be Happy Day: Buy a friend a flower to brighten up their day. Remind your kids how much you love them and how proud of them you are.  Leave a sticky note for a co-worker letting them know something that you appreciate about them. Compliments make us feel valued, and they give us a positive boost to our thoughts and self-esteem. Smile. Research has shown that a smile is constantly rated as the number one thing that makes other people feel emotionally better. This day was created as a day encouraging us to do something to make others happy.  The benefit is that putting a smile on someone's face tends to put one on ours, too.  Looking for more ways to build your resiliency, take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Whether out in the field or occupying the leader's chair, everyone has a stake in reporting incidents of suspected or actual wrongdoing. However, being a whistle-blower feels like a violation of that playground rule not to be a tattletale. Creating a culture that encourages an individual to raise the red flag when something unethical or illegal is taking place is critical. So how do you get past the feeling of not wanting to cause trouble for someone else? It's by understanding that the consequences of keeping silent can be significant and harmful. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Ethics Awareness Month: Create a culture within your organization that encourages employees to report wrongdoing. Work with your teams to understand that the cost of silence is high. This silence may impact the safety of colleagues or damage the reputation and bottom-line of the organization. According to an article in the Harvard Business Review, a survey of 195 global leaders located in 15 different countries reported that high ethical and moral standards were the most important leadership trait in the workplace. Those whose word is their honor and who can be absolutely trusted to be fair, honest, and forthright, are more likely to command the respect of those around them. High ethical and moral standards create a safe and trusting environment in the workplace where employees can thrive. When employees feel that they can depend on and trust their leader, they feel safe and will go the extra mile for the organization. While leaders have an obligation to set the ethical tone of the organization, it is everyone's ethical behavior that matters. Looking for resources to build your healthy workplace? Check out my top 10 tips under Resources and Courses at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Have you ever wanted just to get away, but the timing didn't work for your partner, children, or friends? Why wait for the timing to be just right? Why not go solo? Vacations are a great way to restore resiliency. They can be rejuvenating, and energizing. And going solo is one of the best ways to learn about yourself. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So here are Today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Plan A Solo Vacation Day: There is no such thing as the perfect vacation. But planning, especially when going solo, is essential. The first step is to pick and choose your location and activities wisely. Choose a location and activities that meet with your particular goals. Decide if your upcoming vacation will be focused on relaxation, celebration or adventure. Then chose activities that meet those needs. Don't be afraid to step outside your typical vacation comfort zone and say yes to new experiences. If you find yourself craving company, find a group tour of the city or local area. Or strike up a conversation with the bartender or barista and you will be sure to find out some insider secrets to exploring your vacation area. Going solo means that nobody is going to kick up a fuss about whatever plans you decide. It's your trip, your way. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Did you know that people with few ties to others had 2 to 5 times the death rate as those who had more ties? Support and connectedness can be a powerful tool in preventing illness by acting as a buffer to the effects of stress. We benefit from the emotional support of a community during difficult times. Connectedness is so important to our overall well-being that workplaces are also recognizing the value of support to the success of their organization. It is unfortunate that the busier we become, the easier it is to let our existing friendships go by the way-side, let alone develop new connections. Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating International Friendship Week: Look up. Smile and say hello to those around you Try to connect with your co-workers about things other than the task at hand Participate in social programs Call, text, or email those friends that you have lost touch with Connectedness and group involvement have exceptional powers in decreasing our stress, if we venture to put ourselves ‘out there'. Looking for resources to build your resiliency? Check out my Live Smart blog at worksmartlivesmart.com

Listen to today's podcast... A friend confided that her co-worker was a bully, intimidating, and demeaning. He used innuendos to put other people down. She spent most of her energy trying to stay out of his line of fire. Dealing with harassment can be very difficult and unfortunately more than 1/3 of employees have experienced it or been impacted by it. It can trigger a variety of stress-related illnesses, cause relationship difficulties, and upset productivity and engagement. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Here Are Today's Tips For Building Resiliency During Bullying Prevention Month Using The Steps Of The Proactive Personal Response: Number one tell the offender. Number two document everything. And number three if it continues, let your supervisor or designated officer know. Educating around sexual harassment and developing strong policies and procedures to deter It, are the most effective means of minimizing its occurrence and impact. It's not easy to stand up to a harasser, but use the policies and supports that you have available to help you to stand up to the bully. Looking for better ways to build your resiliency? Take my free online vulnerability test at WorkSmartLiveSmart.com, under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Our greatness is limited only by our imagination. Your road to your greatness takes courage, energy, and persistence. It is about being hungry for more for yourself, but also enjoying what you have achieved along the way. If greatness is the ever-expanding concept of your potential, you must have an internal urge to become your best. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating Plant The Seeds Of Greatness Month: Pay attention to what is happening around you. Take time each day to think about your life and the opportunities for growth. Be willing to try new things, take different approaches, and experiment. Ask different questions that will create a different reality. Greatness involves failure. It involves taking calculated risks. It is about learning through the journey. You've got to believe that you can make the changes necessary in order to achieve greatness in your life. The more we learn, the larger our capacity for growth becomes. And finally, have a picture of the best version of yourself. What does greatness look like for you? How would you act towards your self? How would you act towards others? What would you have achieved? This picture my change as you grow, but striving in this direction will put you on the path to your greatness. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... “The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be.”  Anne Frank Studies show that even low-level chronic noise increases aggression and decreases cooperation and is associated with increased risk for peptic ulcers, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Today is the day to lower the noise level. Being quiet reduces your stress. It allows the mind to focus and be more creative. It can boost your immune system. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating Quiet Day: Breathe: Become aware of your breath and inhale and exhale slowly and deeply inhale for 5 minutes. Try this meditation: Turn off the lights, light a small candle and watch the flame. This stills the optic nerve, and calms the nervous system. At work, take advantage of a quiet room.  Many companies have developed quiet spaces where employees can take a moment or two during the working day to relax, have a break, meditate, pray or simply ‘take stock' without the distractions and interruptions of office life. Get out into nature:  Taking a walk along a park path or country road early in the morning or before bed can bring focus and serenity to one's mind.  Looking for resources to build your resiliency? Check out my Live Smart blog at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... When you expect success, you become successful! But it is not just a matter of thinking good thoughts and good things will happen. Positive and successful people expect success and they look for ways to bring success into their life. Research shows that high expectations lead people to work harder and commit to problem solving the challenges ahead of them.  Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating International Expect Success Month: People who want to change their mental mindset: Accept that life will have setbacks and disappointments and they don't let the fear of failure cloud their judgment or allow them to aim too low They build their resiliency by seeing the setback as only temporary. They don't quit trying just because there was a set back. And finally, they wake up every morning and expect positive things to happen. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Do You Find It Hard To Stay Focused? Have you ever had your computer lock up when you have opened too many files or programs at once? Sometimes when we try to multi-task, we may actually freeze up, lock up or quit performing at our peak.  Researchers have studied human multi-tasking for the past 25 years or so and have found that the brain cannot fully focus when multi-tasking.  We take longer to complete tasks, and are predisposed to error.  The pressure to get more and more done, and toggle between one task and another creates a great deal of stress and pressure on the mind and body. Developing the ability to focus completely on a single task can help in our energy management.   Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating Single Tasking Day: Single-Tasking should be our main way of operating when needing to accomplish important tasks Let go of the idea that the more we tackle at any given time, the more productive we are or will be We have become like junkies in many ways, by needing a ‘fix'.  We check our emails, notices and webpages out of curiosity.  By setting time aside for these activities, we fill our curiosity, yet we are more likely to stay on task and complete that task more efficiently and effectively  Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... There are so many different aspects to health. We hear daily about eating right and exercising, but health also involves our relationships.   February is Relationship Wellness Month and it reminds us that we need to reach out to others and build stronger social ties with family and friends. One key to happy, healthy relationships is the opportunity to spend quality time with the people you care about. Relationship Wellness encourages us to develop better communications with those around us including the ability to share our feelings and needs. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating During Relationship Wellness Month: Relationships take time. Time to develop. Time to nurture. Time to sustain. Spend time really listening to your family and friends.  Find out what is important to them.  What issues are they facing? Listening to someone else is one of the best things that we can do for them and it allows us to keep our own issues and challenges in perspective. What is the one thing that you can do this month to pump up your relationships, on your road to a healthier you'? Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... We never seem to be able to find ‘the time'.  Stop looking.  You will never find it.  It isn't lost.  You are living in it. So what kinds of things waste our time? 44.7% of the more than 10,000 people polled cited personal internet use as their #1 distraction at work. Today's Time Truth: If we fail to control the events in our life, then the events in our life will control us. Planning is key to performance. Not planning wastes time and energy. According to one survey the average worker admits to wasting away 2.09 hours per 8-hour workday, which is twice as much time as their employers expect. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Time Management Month: Eliminate useless meetings. Insist on short, well-planned, morning stand-up meetings. They are the least likely to waste your time and interfere with your work. Stop thinking that you can multi-task. Prioritize and then break up your day accordingly. Don't move on to the next task until you've really completed the previous one. Not only will you do a better job when you're focused, you'll also force yourself to finish something within the time allotted. Come up for air. Productivity declines after a certain period, so pump up your productivity with scheduled breaks. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency, take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Their names are Carly and Misty. They are my source of stress at times as we train each other, and my cuddly companions when curling up on the couch at the end of the day. Research shows that pets can provide excellent social support, stress relief and numerous other health benefits including lower blood pressure Pets Stave Off Loneliness and Provide Unconditional Love: Pets offer love and companionship, and can also enjoy comfortable silences, keep secrets, and are excellent snugglers. Pets Encourage You To Get Out And Exercise It's important to realize that owning a pet isn't for everyone. Pets can make additional work and add to our responsibilities. However, for most people, the benefits of having a pet outweigh the drawbacks. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Your Resiliency and Celebrating Love Your Pet Day: If you don't have a pet and are considering one – carefully consider you and your family's lifestyle and the needs of the pet you choose. A good fit will reduce stress and not add to your stress load. If you have a pet – give them some extra attention today – throw the frisbee, snuggle on the couch, or give an extra treat – you will both enjoy and benefit from it. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Many entrepreneurs started their own business so that they could be happier by having more control over their life, but often the demands of running the business leave them feeling out-of-control.  In order to be successful it is important the entrepreneur not only works hard, but takes the time to take care of themselves, and stay connected to those around them. Burnout is a state of fatigue while feeling frustrated, overworked, and unappreciated. Burnout can be a serious consequence of an unbalanced life. Often this is the case for a new entrepreneur or a small business owner. Some of the other signs of burnout include needing more hours to get your work done, lack of focus, decreased creativity, sleep problems, distrusting, complaining more, and feeling more isolated. When these occur it becomes extremely difficult to carry on with your business. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Entrepreneurship Week: Know your priorities – have a clear understanding as to why you started your own business and the benefits of owning your business Set very clear expectations for yourself and for those around you based on those priorities Take care of your mental health Develop a life outside of your business Take care of your physical health Develop family, friend and peer supports Looking for resources to build your healthy workplace? Check out my top 10 tips under Resources and Courses at worksmartlivesmart.com

Listen to today's podcast... On one particular visit home, I learned that my grandma didn't learn English until she went to public school. Up till then, she spoke German. I had no idea that my maternal grandma came from a German background. I had just assumed that she was English, like my grandpa. Understanding our heritage is important. I grew up in a farming family. This meant that the ‘farm' came first and that everyone in that family was responsible to make the farm successful.  Families helped each other, as more often than not, we were related to our neighbours in some way, and that conflict was put aside to get things done.  Happy or not. I see a lot of conflict that happens on family farms when someone new comes into the farm family that doesn't share those same values to the extent that the rest of the family does.  These values are neither right or wrong, but unless the differences and expectations are talked about, openly and respectfully, the conflict festers and grows. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      So Here are today's Hot Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Heritage Day: Whether you like it or not, heritage is what makes you who you are. Things like values, culture, food, and traditions are all past down. Your heritage is the foundation on which you stand.  It is the very thing that has gotten you to where you are now. Honor your past by the way you carry yourself in the present. Share your heritage with your children to create a solid foundation for them. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency' Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Today is My Way Day. Yes, it is MY way or the highway! I like MY way, it is the RIGHT way. It is the ONLY way! Why, because I said so. I know it is so. You just haven't realized it to be so. And until you come around to my way of thinking, just do as I say, and life will be much better for all of us. And don't argue with me. When it is Your Way Day, I'll do what you say, so, till then, remember it is MY Way Day! I jest, but part of it is true.  I really do want things my way.  It's all about control and I like to have control.  I can be seen as a difficult person and in fact I am one of the ‘characters' that I talk about in my workshops.  When we understand what motivates others and what motivates ourselves, it is much easier to deal with the negative sides of these personalities. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating My Way Day: Just because it is My Way Day, don't expect that everything will go your way, because funny enough, others think it is their way day too. Learn what pushes your buttons and learn what pushes other people's buttons.  Relaxation skills can help to reduce that overwhelmed, frustrated feeling, helping to prevent you from stomping around. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... As parents we worry about assisting our children to become competent, capable and healthy adults. We are concerned about their self-esteem and their overall emotional health. We wish we had more time to spend with them. Today, where I am it is Family Day. It's a day to sit down, talk, eat dinner and connect with your kids and other family members. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Family Day: When caring on a conversation, constructively express both negative and positive feelings and thoughts – children learn how to cope and express themselves through us Help your child to put a name to their feelings. Assist them to expand their vocabulary beyond using ‘happy', ‘sad' and ‘mad'. Help children to find positive ways of expressing difficult emotions Challenge unrealistic expectations when they become interpreted as a self-failure or become expressed as frustration Remind the child of the number of different people that they can go to in difficult situations Teach children the importance of developing friendships and what it means to be a ‘good' friend to someone else For more information on coping with mental health issues, sign up for one of my on-line courses at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... “Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness.” Seneca World Kindness Day gives us a chance to reach to others and show them that they are not alone, and the world is not as gloomy as it is often made out to be. Numerous scientific studies show that acts of kindness result in significant health benefits. Performing kind acts can help reverse feelings of depression, decrease feelings of hostility and isolation, decrease intensity and the awareness of physical pain, and increase sense of self-worth, happiness, and optimism. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating Random Acts Of Kindness Week: Think of those that are closest to you and take a moment to connect with them…phone your grandmother, mother, father, uncle…nothing is more personal than a visit or a phone call so that they can hear your voice. Let them know how much they mean to you. Leave a love note for your spouse. Let them know that you still hold them in your heart. Make a donation to a charity on behalf of a love one. You are letting your love one know that you are thinking of them and you are helping out a worthy cause at the same time. Send an appreciation note to a colleague. Many of us receive little or no appreciation at work. Let's change this and help increase the engagement of each other. Being kind to another doesn't have to cost us anything other than the energy to think of something. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... One of the most important places for your signature is on your Donor Card. It can impact so many people. That signature can save lives. Today we thank those individuals who already voluntarily donated their blood, organs and tissue to save someone else's life or to improve the quality of their life.   With our lives being so busy it is easy to forget to do this simple little act of kindness. But this little act can mean the difference between life and death. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Donor Day: If you are okay with donating, take the opportunity today, to sign your card. Someone may be counting on you. Discuss this decision with your family. Sometimes starting the conversation can be difficult. Making the decision for yourself in advance makes it easier for your family to cope during a very difficult time. If you are not sure about your family member's wishes, #StarttheConversation. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Do you know who Dianne Belmont was? I think that she was a comedic genius. Still not sure? Dianne later became known as Lucille Ball.   Have you ever wished you were given a different name by your parents? If so, today is the day, as it is Get A Different Name Day. If you could, what new name would you give yourself? In some religions they have or had a practice or ceremony during which you selected a new name. Sometimes taking a new name is a case of a celebration, such as getting married. Some actors or musicians choose a new stage name, especially if they had a hard to pronounce name. Taking on a new name can help affirm a new identity, like when transitioning from one gender to another. It's all about getting a fresh start, and that's what Get A Different Name Day is about! Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Get A Different Name Day: If you are not seriously looking for a new name, have fun with a different name anyways, just for today. Choose a character from a movie or TV show or from folk lore and post it on your social media to let your friends and family know about this new or hidden identity Are you a Sheldon Cooper, a Zena Warrior Princess, Taz for Tasmanian Devil, or a Lucy because of your sense of humor? Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Though everyone may want something unique from their job, there are some common things that employees want their job to provide. Employees want to gain a sense of confidence, competence and control. What motivates employees is having interesting work that challenges them, along with increased responsibility, autonomy, and recognition for a job well done. These motivating factors fill our need for growth and achievement, and bring about long-term happiness and fulfillment. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Leadership Success Day: Successful leaders build confidence, competence and control by treating their employees with respect and by giving positive recognition for performance and dedication. Successful leaders focus on building two-way trust within the organization. When employees feel that they are trusted and respected, they will share issues openly and are more productive and creative. They are more likely to develop meaningful relationships and take pride in contributing their skills and abilities. All of this increases overall confidence, competence and control. Looking for resources to build your healthy workplace? Check out my top 10 tips under Resources and Courses at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Electrific. I have no idea what this word means, but isn't it a great word'  When I hear it, I think of great, terrific, electrifying, bubbly, energizing….. How can you be electrific? Often, we find ourselves just going through the motions.  Days run into each other.  Life can become boring and stagnant. If we don't purposefully attack each day, we can become anything but electrific. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Electrific Day Share a smile with those around you.  Greet your family the way you wish to be greeted Do something fun – just because Say thank you to your co-workers, to your boss, to your spouse Think of something positive to say to each person that you connect with today Get plenty of sleep so that the energy you have bubbles out from you Wear something bright to pick you up from the winter blahs Do your best to be electrific

Listen to today's podcast... The quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world. This is the fourth avenue of service for the Rotary Club. With all of the chaos and conflict happening in the world, we need courage to take a stand and promote peace in our communities. We do this by digging in and learning how to understand other people's cultures, by promoting engagement with others, and by building strong, diverse communities. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips for Building Resiliency and Celebrating National World Understanding Month: The first part of expanding our understanding is to recognize that every cultural group has unique strengths and perspectives that the larger community can benefit from. We need a wide range of ideas, customs, and wisdom to solve problems and enrich community life. It is by bringing non-mainstream groups into the center of civic activity that we get fresh perspectives and shed new light on tough problems. Here are some questions that may help you think about and understand your community: How would you define your community? Does it have geographical boundaries? Is it local or global? Who lives in your community right now? What kinds of diversity already exists? What issues do different cultural groups have in common? These are just a few of the questions that can expand your understanding and this insight can lead to an increase of goodwill, cooperation, and peace in your community. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... CEO Jeff Bezos admitted that he reads in his bathtub. He took a one-gallon Ziploc bag, and put his e-reader inside it. Book in hand…safe and sound. An interesting way to combine two popular stress-relieving pastimes. I am not sure that I am co-ordinated enough to master this even with a Ziploc bag. Bathtubs are the picture-perfect scene to the end of a hard day for many people. I have trouble sitting in a tub. I don't find it very relaxing and my mind usually wanders off to what else needs to be done. Part of the S-O-S Principle that I developed involves finding strategies that get your mind off of the stressful situation. The key is to find something that works for you. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Read In The Tub Day: If you have trouble slowing down to relax, ask yourself why. Are you too caught up in what needs to be done next' Keep the superhuman syndrome in check – we need to take time to take care of ourselves. If the bathtub or a good book doesn't do it for you, find something else that does. Find something that changes the speed, changes your focus and helps to renew your energy. If you are still willing to try the book and bathtub combo to relax, start with a magazine or book that doesn't matter if it gets wet. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... I am really glad that February is the shortest month of the year, as it always seems tough to get through. I often get hit with the blahs during this time. Sometimes it is because of the busyness around me and sometimes it is weather related. Sometimes it is both. Have you ever been caught up in the blahs and you aren't sure that things are going to ever pick back up? Do you worry that you may feel this way forever? Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Blah Buster Month: Getting together with a friend is a sure way to put the blahs at bay. Social connections ground us. Declutter Your Closet. Go through your clothes and pull out the things you no longer wear. Donate those items. Organizing and Decluttering open up space in our environment and our minds. Get Active. Exercise is a mood enhancer and will naturally lift your spirits. Go to the light. I often get caught staying indoors during this month, but the more I get outside the better I feel. Finally, try something new. A new activity. A new recipe. A new technology. All of these can increase your brain's plasticity and add a bit of a spark to a tough month. For more information on coping with mental health issues, sign up for one of my on-line courses at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

In most of Canada, Daylight Saving Time begins at 2:00 a.m. local time on the second Sunday in March. Today! I have a hard time with these adjustments. I love having it brighter in the evenings, but that adjustment to darkness early in the morning again makes it less likely that I am springing out of bed…for a while any way. Daylight saving time isn't all bad. In fact, when we move an hour ahead, we enjoy more daytime hours, which hopefully we are using to get outside, connect and just become more active after the sluggishness of winter. There are definite other benefits to the clocks shifting, including decreased oil and energy usage. Daylight Saving Time seems to decrease the risk for accidents in the evening hours. However, a Swedish study found that heart attacks were significantly more common the first three weekdays after our spring transition. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating the switch to Daylight Saving Time: Though it's only one day, daylight saving time can throw off your entire schedule, and the sleep effects tend to linger for a few days. Therefore it is important to take note of the impact that the clock shifting has on your sleep, mood and focus. Ensure that you are getting a good night's sleep before this occurs to minimize the impact of this shift. More light can equal more time to do what you want or need to do, which equals a happier you. Make use of the extra daylight and enjoy the changing seasons. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... Accept Yourself. Accept Your Body. Celebrate Yourself. Celebrate Your Body. Fact #1 Eating Disorders affect people of all gender, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic class, ability, race, and ethnic background. Fact #2 Eating disorders are not choices, but seriously biologically influenced mental illnesses and need to be treated as life threatening conditions Fact #3 You can't tell by looking at someone whether they have an eating disorder. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Bringing Awareness To Eating Disorder Week: Whether you're a parent concerned for a child, a friend or someone who just wants to make a difference, there are many ways to shine a spotlight on eating disorders to help those in need and celebrate people who have made a recovery. Find ways to show your support. US News & World Report recommends: Be honest: Tell the person you're concerned about his or her health. Be sincere: Compliment the person on their intrinsic qualities – like their ability to make people laugh or their ability to work as a team player. Be caring, but firm: Let them know that you care and want to help in the recovery process. For more tips on how to Promote Mental Illness Awareness check out my website at worksmartlivesmart.com under the Resources and Courses tab #mentalhealth #hr

Last week we celebrated Have Fun At Work Day and today is Working Naked Day. Well…I guess this is one way to have more fun at work. I think that working naked is more for those of us who work alone and at home…with no chance of a customer dropping in. In fact, a recent study found that 1 in 8 male teleworkers and 1 in 14 female teleworkers actually work naked. Some suggest that working naked, means that you work alone, without the support of a corporate group around you. If this is the case, I guess I do work naked. Being in business for yourself means that you have to push your limits, test new waters and find new paths. Without supporters around you, you can feel exposed and vulnerable. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Working Naked Day: If you are literally going to work naked today, it is best to ensure that no one else is around. It is very difficult to use the celebration as a line of defense with your boss. If you are an entrepreneur, working alone, celebrate that you have courage. Though many wish to work for themselves, it takes true courage to actually go out on your own and sink or swim on your own merits. Minimize your exposure. Surround yourself with those who will cheer you on, give you honest feedback, pick you up, dust you off and send you back out. Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In #mentalhealth #hr

Listen to today's podcast... A study found that 20% of workers felt that their employer didn't care about them. Imagine what that would look like in your organization. What impact do you think that this would have on productivity and engagement? Quality leaders are aware of the value of recognition. During Leadership Week, I encourage supervisors, managers, directors and the C-Suite to look closely at the relationship that they have with their employees. A poor relationship – one in which employees feel powerless, uninformed, disrespected, used and stressed – will lead to high rates of heart and cardiovascular problems, anxiety, depression, and alcohol and drug use. It can also leave the company with higher rates of absenteeism, lowered productivity, higher rates of job turnover and more difficulty in attracting and retaining high quality workers. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating International Leadership Week: Quality relationships take time to develop. They require that leaders allow for participation in decision-making, provide information and support on stress, develop support strategies between team members and that the leader ensure the proper resources are available to get the job done. Challenge yourself to evaluate your leadership skills. Would your team consider you a quality leader? Want to check out more health and wellness related celebrations? Visit my wellness calendars under the resources and courses tab at worksmartlivesmart.com

Listen to today's podcast... Have you ever looked at those websites that compare your real age to your chronological age? I did and I was pleased to see that it covered a variety of areas related to positive stress management and resiliency. It also had some interesting questions regarding heart health. Cardiovascular diseases continue to be a major threat to women's health. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Building Resiliency and Celebrating Women's Heart Week: It is imperative that women learn the warning signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke, see a doctor regularly, and learn their family history. Making a commitment to your health isn't something you have to do alone either, so grab a friend or a family member and become accountability partners. Nutrition and exercise essential. But also consider the impact of being positive, being able to relax, using a sense of humour, being organized, being involved in hobbies/community, having a spiritual side, and striving to be a continuous learner. Our heart pumps life through our body, so ensure that you are pumping your heart full of life. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line vulnerability test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab.