_{It’s time to start reducing your stress and worry levels.   A relaxed approach to your work can add years to your life.}

            _{Stress is usually caused by worry, due to work pressure, personality conflicts, by worries such as money problems, or family problems.}  

            _{First, you must recognise it exists before taking steps to reduce it.}

            _{People tend to worry about things they cannot see, more than what they can see.}

            _{Learn to ‘switch off’ occasionally so you return to work fresh and creative.}     

_{A handful of tips to help you reduce your stress levels}

_{* Get organised}

            _{Make time to plan tomorrow’s tasks before you go home.}

            _{In the morning before you get out of bed think through your day plan.}

            _{Switch off when you leave work. Don’t carry your work home.}   

            _{Enjoy other things such as cultural and family events.}

            _{Plan relaxation times with family and friends. Enjoy music, good books, hobbies and sport  –  the things you enjoy doing most.}

            _{Your time is one of your scarcest resources – ration it!              Prioritize your more important tasks. Learn to say;  “Sorry I am too busy to do that extra job  right now.”}

            _{Study and learn the art of delegation – this could be the key to your career success!}

_{* Make rapid decisions}

            _{Meet deadlines as soon as possible.}

            _{As soon as you have the facts – act fast.} 

            _{The longer you procrastinate the harder jobs become and the more you start to worry, so practice the art of quick decision making.}

_{* Learn to relax}

            _{When working on a computer for long periods, or engaged in concentrated mental activities, take short breaks at regular intervals.}

            _{To sleep well at night you need to be physically tired. After work do some form of exercise.}  

_{Swimming and walking are good and cheap ways to relax.}

            _{There is an old English proverb that says; “Early to bed, early to rise makes a person, healthy, wealthy and wise.”}

_{* Watch your health}

            _{If you don’t look after your body no one else will.}

            _{Be aware of what your body is telling you. Seek help if necessary.}

            _{Have regular medical checks, and maintain good dental and eye care.}

            _{Eat good wholesome foods and try to maintain a well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.}

             _{A balanced diet shouldn’t need supplements.} 

            _{Restrict your intake of coffee and alcoholic drinks.}

_{* Reward yourself}

            _{When you have done a good job reward yourself.}

            _{Take a break. Enjoy concerts, parties, books, and music with friends.}        

            _{Try to socialize with people away from your work.  Work hard, but have fun!}

            _{Know when and how to switch off  – relax and enjoy life!}

            _{Moderation in all things is a key to overcoming your stress and worry.}

_{Geoffrey Moss(mossassociates.co.nz.)}

_{“Stay cool – stay focused!”}

_{SOURCE: “Secrets for Success. This book could change your life”. First published by Moss Associates Ltd, New Zealand, and by Cengage Learning Asia. Also available as an e-book from Amazon.com.}

_{VISIT: http://www.mossassociates.co.nz for our FREE books. For those in need see “NO JOB! WHAT NOW?”}