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Work Smart

"Be who you are and say what you feel
because those who mind don't matter
and those who matter don't mind."
-- Dr. Seuss

Are you maximizing your brain power and personal efficiency? Achieving clarity and focus are critical to achieving success in business and life. How you organize your thoughts, your goals and your space can affect how effective you are at realizing your dreams and simply getting daily tasks done with ease. Work smart and you will stress less!

Mind Matters - Tips to Boost Your Brain Power

• Control stress. Stress is a part of life; the key is how you manage it. Use techniques to relax and focus, such as deep breathing, meditation, affirmation and visualization. Writing in a journal will help you emotionally and mentally. Stay away from environmental stress from pesticides and solvents.
• Eat Smart. Protein, whole grains and Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important. Take a multivitamin that gives you the B-complex, iron, E, C, A, zinc, calcium, selenium and coenzyme Q-10. Limit dairy products and stay away from white flour/sugar and processed foods. 
• Exercise. Keep the blood flowing to the brain. Cardiovascular exercise will boost short-term memory and help control blood pressure, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol and diabetes - all risk factors for cerebrovascular compromise.
• Seek Cognitive Challenges. Do mental aerobics with problem-solving, mystery books, puzzles and word games. Get involved in activities that keep you mentally on the move, such as community groups and continuing education classes.
• Use Mind Tricks. When trying to remember a name, take a mental snapshot and use a rhyme or association. Engage all of your senses. Group digits, like 857-234-5896. Use mnemonics. For example, "Every good boy does fine" in music, representing E-G-B-D-F, the notes of the treble staff. Talk out loud to your Self while doing a task you want to remember.
  

Dear Dr. Terri K: I have a small financial advisory firm based in New York City and I just bought a house in Philadelphia to lower my cost structure. I have decided to keep my New York office... commute in three days a week and work from my new home two days. How can I manage my schedule so I still grow the business, have a social life (I am single) and not burn out! – DAVID, New York/Philly

DAVID: First, congratulations on your new home. Homeownership is a key step to creating your own wealth. I also commend you for doing what it takes to keep your personal expenses under control. Many entrepreneurs fail to do that. Here are some suggestions to keep your energy in tact and maximize your new situation:

1. Set up an efficient home office. Since you are in a new space, you have an opportunity to create an environment that truly supports your success. Organize your office for optimum efficiency. Use technology and shelves/files to simplify your processes and prevent/reduce clutter.  
   
2. Keep a regular schedule when you are working from home. Sometimes when entrepreneurs work from home they get too lax with their habits. Set a realistic timetable for the days you are home. You may vary it by doing a slightly longer workout. Get dressed (you don’t have to be in a suit but do get out of your pajamas!) and go to your home office (even if it is down the hall) at a reasonable time.
   
3. Leverage your commute. If you are taking mass transit, use the time to catch up on the news, read, plan and/or review your day. If you are driving, you can also use the time to rev up your mental state on the way to work by listening to motivational tapes, and unwind on the way home by listening to an audio book. Whatever you do make the time positively productive!  
   
4. Schedule your social time. Let friends know which days you will be in New York so you can make a point to catch up when possible. Begin to systematically develop a social life in Philadelphia.
   
5. Plan ahead. Pack healthy snacks for your commute. Think about your meals on the New York days since you will probably get home later. Keep an extra dress suit and shirt at your office in case of a last minute dinner event or you need a quick change of clothes. Also keep workout clothes and sneakers on hand for last minute playtime!
   

It all starts with the Power of Choice. Make a choice today to take control of your energy. business. Start Power Living Today! 

I am focused.

My mind is clear and calm like the still waters of a lake. I direct my thoughts to positive outcomes. I focus on one thing at a time. When I control my mind space, I have the clarity I need to accomplish anything.

I am focused.

Listen to the Affirmation:

Do you have questions about managing a specific stressful situation? Are you confused about certain foods or herbs? Do you need some insights regarding a career shift and discovering your Purpose? Then... Ask Dr. Terri K. Email your questions to askdrterrik@power-living.com.  If you still desire on-going, individualized attention, then try out our one-on-one coaching. For more information, email coaching@power-living.com or call 212.901.6913.