The Holidays are over. The wonderful days of feasting and parties, of drinking and celebrating, of turkey and egg nog, are gone for another year. It is sad, in a way, but that really doesn't matter in the least, because they're over. Get to work.
Holidays are only fun because they are breaks from the norm. The norm is work and there is a lot to do. This will be a year of change. We have more than just a change in Administrations in our Government, we have a change in the whole philosophy we will be governed by. Like it or not, this year will be very different and the Practical American will be ready.
Do not be distracted by all the debate and quarrelling we are about to hear. Do your job, whatever it is, efficiently and cheerfully. At the same time, learn to do as many things as you can. If you have a trade, say plumbing, learn carpentry and/ or electrical work. If you have a brand new IT degree, good for you; now learn a trade. Got an MBa? Wonderful, learn the hospitality business. Why?
Simple. We are entering a time of change and one of the biggest area of change will be the economy. No one knows what twists and turns the job market will take, The more things you can do, the more sure you are of employment.
Take care of yourself physically. We do not have a clue how the whole health care mess will turn out, but if you are healthy, your worry goes down a lot.
Pay down your debts. I know that I write that a lot, but it is one of the keys to financial success. If you have to work two jobs for a while, get to it. In uncertain times, you absolutely do not want debt. At the same time, watch your spending. I don't think anyone should live like a recluse, eating Ramen noodles and cheap hot dogs, but use a bit of sense and don't overdo your luxuries.
In short, use your head and get to work. Those are the keys to, not just surviving, but thriving in the New Year.
Showing posts with label New Year. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Year. Show all posts
Thursday, January 5, 2017
Thursday, December 29, 2016
New Year's Resolutions
It is a long standing tradition to make New Year resolutions. You know the routine: lose wait, quit smoking, exercise, save money, etc. I'm not to big on these, but if you are, here's one piece advice.
Be realistic. If you make resolutions and fail miserably, it can be a bit depressing. Failure usually comes from being over the top with your goals.
Want to lose weight? Don't set a goal of 50 pounds in the first month. You will not do that and, if you come close, you will likely wind up sick. 5 pounds is reasonable, and when you accomplish that, you can feel pleased.
If you have not exercised in years, don't start out trying to run 10 miles and lift weights for 3 hours each day. Start with walking a mile and doing some stretching and calisthenics for twenty minutes a day. Work up slowly from there.
Saving money is always a fine idea, but don't tell yourself you are going to cut down to a diet of Ramen noodles and toast and bank half of your paycheck (unless you are in a deep financial crisis). You will not live up to that resolution for more that a day or two. Resolve to cut out a dinner out each week and save an extra $20. That will help your finances and, from there, maybe you can find other, minor corners to cut.
In short, don't set yourself up for failure. Keep your goals realistic. Have a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year.
Be realistic. If you make resolutions and fail miserably, it can be a bit depressing. Failure usually comes from being over the top with your goals.
Want to lose weight? Don't set a goal of 50 pounds in the first month. You will not do that and, if you come close, you will likely wind up sick. 5 pounds is reasonable, and when you accomplish that, you can feel pleased.
If you have not exercised in years, don't start out trying to run 10 miles and lift weights for 3 hours each day. Start with walking a mile and doing some stretching and calisthenics for twenty minutes a day. Work up slowly from there.
Saving money is always a fine idea, but don't tell yourself you are going to cut down to a diet of Ramen noodles and toast and bank half of your paycheck (unless you are in a deep financial crisis). You will not live up to that resolution for more that a day or two. Resolve to cut out a dinner out each week and save an extra $20. That will help your finances and, from there, maybe you can find other, minor corners to cut.
In short, don't set yourself up for failure. Keep your goals realistic. Have a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year.
Monday, December 26, 2016
Post Holiday Stress
Christmas is over; well, I guess a lot of folks have today off because of the Sunday holiday, but even if you're not working, it's not a holiday. Come the weekend, we're at it again with New Year. This week figures to be a bit odd.
Be practical and realize that most people will be on auto pilot this week. That is just human nature, so don't get stressed if your employees are not giving it their all, if service in stores is sluggish, and no one seems to be accomplishing much. This is a once a year phenomenon, and it will pass, about a week from Wednesday. Just roll with it and chill out yourself. It will do you no good, and possibly a lot of harm, to expect the Nation to hop back to full speed this week. It ain't happening.
In your personal life, take it easy on yourself. After a weekend Holiday, filled with rich food and drink, be kind to your body. Give your gastro-intestinal tract and your liver a short time out and go easy on heavy foods and even easier on alcohol. It will not be a joyous New Year if you start it sick.
If you have been burning the candle at both ends the last few days, be nice to yourself and get some sleep. Naps are nice.
The Holidays come but once a year and should be enjoyed. There is nothing wrong with the Country taking a week or so to slow down and goof off a bit. There is even nothing wrong with over doing thins this time of year. Just remember that the body has limits and you need a little time to recover before you start the next go round.
Be practical and realize that most people will be on auto pilot this week. That is just human nature, so don't get stressed if your employees are not giving it their all, if service in stores is sluggish, and no one seems to be accomplishing much. This is a once a year phenomenon, and it will pass, about a week from Wednesday. Just roll with it and chill out yourself. It will do you no good, and possibly a lot of harm, to expect the Nation to hop back to full speed this week. It ain't happening.
In your personal life, take it easy on yourself. After a weekend Holiday, filled with rich food and drink, be kind to your body. Give your gastro-intestinal tract and your liver a short time out and go easy on heavy foods and even easier on alcohol. It will not be a joyous New Year if you start it sick.
If you have been burning the candle at both ends the last few days, be nice to yourself and get some sleep. Naps are nice.
The Holidays come but once a year and should be enjoyed. There is nothing wrong with the Country taking a week or so to slow down and goof off a bit. There is even nothing wrong with over doing thins this time of year. Just remember that the body has limits and you need a little time to recover before you start the next go round.
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