loc8 - tea break feb 2015 issue

1February 2015 Issue | www.Loc8.ae

Tea Break

February 2015 Issue | www.Loc8.ae

February 2015 Issue

Recognising how hard people work, LOC8 wants to provide some business free, easy reading for that all important Tea-Break moment. We hope you enjoy this production and

find it interesting.


Table of Contents3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

1415

Health WatchAre you the early bird who gets the worm, or a night owl burning the midnight oil? The answer may have an impact on your health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Safety Monitor Do you know your rights if you’re injured on the job? You may be entitled to workers’ compensation, an insurance program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Workplace WorkshopMaybe you’re lucky enough to love your job, your boss, and all your co-workers. But if you’re like the rest of us, things could be better at work. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Science LabThe aquatic world is full of exciting new discoveries every day. Check out two recent reports . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CreativityThe question “What’s your spirit animal?” may sound like New Age psychobabble, but the Ying Ying Shi blog offers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Success & Personal GrowthIf the key to success is hard work and then more hard work, take your cue from the habits of some of the world’s most successful people . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AnecdotesMost of us are familiar with the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, in which a mild-mannered scientist transforms into a hideous, beastlike villain. . . . . . . . . . . .

Manager’s Mentor You can’t lead people successfully unless you have a strong idea of what your organization wants to accomplish and a good sense of how to get there. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Family MattersPeople who take care of a sick relative, spouse, or child often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from friends and life outside their responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Grins & GigglesAt the end of a long, stressful day, Allison decided to take a nice relaxing bath. . . . . . . . . . . . . Money MattersEach decade of life usually carries with it several big money moments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Odds & EndsEach year Americans throw away spoiled fruits and vegetables because. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Quotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Early riser vs. nighthawk: Who’s better off?Are you the early bird who gets the worm, or a night owl burning the midnight oil? The answer may have an impact on your health—and even your career.

One study cited in U.S. News & World Report found that teens who are early to bed and early to rise tend to be in better health than their peers who stay up late and sleep in, even if they get the same amount of sleep. And other studies suggest that morning people do better at resisting fatigue, anxiety, and depression, while nighthawks appear to suffer higher rates of insomnia and ADHD. The stay-up-late crowd may also have a higher propensity for substance abuse, addictive behaviors, and mental health problems.

But being a night owl has its advantages, too. Research also indicates that they can have higher IQs, more stamina during the day, better reasoning and analytical skills, and greater creativity and productivity. These traits, along with an inclination toward more risk-taking, seem to contribute to night owls having a higher average level of financial and career success.

The Mayo Clinic website notes that our sleeping habits are governed by the body’s natural 24-hour cycle, known as the circadian rhythm. Some people have a slightly longer light-to-dark ratio, making them night owls; others with a short cycle tend to be early risers. However, the cycle can shift over a person’s lifetime: Young children are usually early birds, then become nighthawks as teenagers, then gradually transition back to being morning people as adults.

Eat right to avoid the fluIt’s never too late to protect yourself (and your friends and family) from the flu. A flu shot may be your best line of defense, but you can also keep the flu virus at bay with help from these foods:• Chicken soup. Once again, your mother was right. Chicken soup provides fluids that help fight off viruses, and it can reduce inflammation and other symptoms of the flu.• Garlic. Compounds in garlic (also onions) known as allion and allicin have an antiviral impact. For maximum effect, chew a raw clove every three to four hours. If necessary, try chopping the clove into smaller pieces to swallow like pills.• Pumpkin seeds. The zinc in pumpkin seeds is said to help white blood cells fight off disease.• Citrus fruits. The vitamin C found in most citrus fruits (as well as red bell peppers, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and otherfoods) can reduce cold and flu symptoms by up to 25 percent.• Blueberries. Antioxidants are more plentiful in blueberries than in lots of other fruits and vegetables. Eat half a cup a day during flu season. Fresh blueberries are best, but even frozen ones offer strong benefits.

Start feeling better with these quick ideas• Do you feel tired, but not really sick? Try these tips for staying active and alert:

• For long-lasting energy, eat foods like lentils, soybeans, couscous, and dried fruits.• Make sure to drink plenty of water to help replenish and cleanse the body.• Popping a chocolate kiss in your mouth has been shown to raise endorphin levels and make you feel better. More, however, won’t make you feel any better than just one.• Add ginger to your recipes. Ginger has been used since ancient times in China to help digestion and cleanse the body.• Eat a cup of yogurt per day. Women who ate one cup of yogurt per day for six months got 33 percent fewer yeast infections, according to scientific studies.

Health Watch


Workers’ compensation: Research your position before you’re hurt in a workplace accidentDo you know your rights if you’re injured on the job? You may be entitled to workers’ compensation, an insurance program which provides financial help for medical bills and lost work, in exchange for not filing a lawsuit against your organization.

According to the legal website Nolo.com, an employee is eligible for workers’ comp if these three conditions are met:

• The employer carries workers’ compensation coverage (or is required to). Generally speaking, most organizations are required to have workers’ comp policies, although some may not—the number of employees or the type of work they perform can affect the need for coverage. Check your state’s laws and regulations.

• The injured party is in fact an employee. Independent contractors (like freelancers and consultants) aren’t usually eligible for workers’ compensation. Nor are volunteers, although volunteer fire fighters may be covered, depending on your state’s laws. Just make sure your employer doesn’t try to classify you incorrectly in an attempt to avoid paying for coverage.

• The injury is work-related. If you’re hurt on the job, you’re usually covered as long as you’re actually carrying out the work your employer requires. But sometimes situations are complex: if you’re hit by a car while doing a personal favor for your boss on your lunch break, for example, or you sprain your ankle playing softball at the organization’s annual picnic. You’ll need to talk to a lawyer before taking any action.

Driving in a blizzard? Follow these commonsense tipsThe winter months can be dangerous for driving, especially if a blizzard hits your town or city. Don’t take any chances. Respect the power of a blizzard, and remember these guidelines for staying safe:

• Check weather conditions. Don’t set out in a blizzard unless you absolutely have to. Call ahead to make sure the roads are safe all the way to your destination. • Fill up your tank. Don’t risk running out of gas in a snowstorm. Stop at the gas station to top your tank off before heading out.• Dress appropriately. Don’t jump into the car in just a sweater and sneakers. Always bring a warm coat, heavy gloves, and winter boots.• Carry adequate supplies. In your trunk you should have a shovel, road flares, booster cables, emergency food, a sleeping bag, and any other supplies that will help you stay warm and safe.• Prepare for the worst. If you get stuck in the snow, stay inside your vehicle until help arrives. Run your motor to warm up the interior for no more than 10 minutes an hour. Don’t risk draining your gas tank or suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Take a positive approach to workplace safetyIf you’re responsible for safety in your workplace, you know the importance of preventing accidents and injuries. But does everyone else? Here’s how to get the message out and keep the rest of your workforce healthy and safe:

• Signs and posters. Remind employees to take proper precautions by displaying signs throughout your workplace. Switch them often so employees don’t ignore the ones they see all the time.• Safety meetings. From time to time, bring small groups together to discuss safety issues: a new piece of equipment, problems you or other employees have noticed, changes in your organizational guidelines, and the like.• Proper training. Don’t assume employees will automatically know how to operate a piece of machinery—or what to do in an emergency. Provide proper training so everyone can handle equipment safely.• Good examples. Whether you’re a manager, a safety leader, or just a conscientious employee, show your co-workers that you follow the same safe working practices

Safety Monitor


Increase your happiness level at work Maybe you’re lucky enough to love your job, your boss, and all your co-workers. But if you’re like the rest of us, things could be better at work. You don’t have to wait for a miracle, though. Try these simple steps for increasing your happiness on the job:

• Personalize your workspace. Go beyond the obligatory photo of your family and a calendar of picturesque landscapes. Decorate your office or cubicle to reflect your personality. You’ll feel more relaxed and comfortable, and your co-workers will get to know the real you.

• Learn to say no. Some of us automatically agree to take on anything we’re asked. This leads to overwork and stress. Get into the habit of telling your coworkers when you’ve already got too much to handle. You may have to negotiate with them—and with your boss—but standing up for yourself will increase other people’s respect for you and give you more breathing space to do your own job.

• Become a mentor. Use your expertise to guide younger employees and help them develop their skills. You can do this in your workplace, or through volunteer programs from community groups or your college. It’s a great way to meet new people and contribute to someone else’s success, both of which will renew your spirits.

• Ride your bike to work. If you live within a reasonable distance, ride a bicycle or walk to work when the weather is favorable. The exercise and fresh air will improve your health and your frame of mind both when you get to work and when you return home.

Build a personal brand and advance your careerYou’ve probably heard career experts talk about the importance of creating a personal “brand.” It’s not like designing a logo; it’s about highlighting the skills and experience you have to offer. Here’s how to develop yours:

• Talk to your colleagues. Get their honest opinions on your strengths and weaknesses, and be prepared for surprises. Don’t accept everything you hear as gospel truth—people do make mistakes. Just listen with an open mind.

• Align what you hear with what you know. Compare the feedback you get with what you know about yourself. What fits? What doesn’t? People may say you’re great at task X, but if you really detest that particular activity, you’ll want to leave it out of your brand so you don’t become identified with it for the rest of your career.

• Push your strengths to the forefront. Your brand should showcase your strengths. Take every opportunity to put them to work. The more you exercise the skills you enjoy and do best, the more people will see the authentic you.

Holiday recovery: Get back to work without stress The holidays are over, but you may not feel ready to dive back into the grind. Your job (and your boss)

won’t wait, though. Here’s how to get past the holiday madness and New Year’s doldrums:

• Review your goals. Look back at what you accomplished the previous year. Then spend some time setting new objectives for the coming 12 months. This should help you get charged up for the future.

• Adjust your energy level. Log your activities for a few days and identify tasks that waste time and leave you feeling drained. Eliminate what you can, and look for strategies to manage what you’re stuck with.

• Set priorities. Look at what’s most important to get done now. Achieving a fresh goal will improve your spirits and remind you of what you’re good at.

• Hold a debrief. At the end of your first week after the holidays, review the past few days. What did you accomplish? What remains to be done? What’s upfor next week? You’ll be able to make plans in an organized fashion.

Workplace Workshop


The world under the waves: New surprisesThe aquatic world is full of exciting new discoveries every day. Check out two recent reports:

• Dolphins. A team of French scientists placed two barrels in a dolphin pool. With one of the barrels planted near the entrance contained a strongly magnetized block, the dolphins approached the opening much more rapidly than when it held a nonmagnetic substance. This suggests that dolphins can detect magnetic fields, along with birds, honeybees, butterflies, and about 50 other animal species.

• Sharks. British researchers have observed that some sharks have distinct personality traits, especially with regards to their preferences for groups. Small-spotted catsharks monitored in a series of habitats inside shark tanks formed large groups regardless of their environment; others tended to remain solitary and camouflage themselves, as if shy around their peers. Unlike the mindless predators of the ocean that movies like Jaws suggest, sharks may be moodier than we realize.

Water detected on distant Neptune-sized worldThe search for extraterrestrial life in the universe starts with water. Scientists so far have discovered evidence of water only on larger exoplanets the size of Jupiter, but recently astronomers at the University of Maryland in College Park detected water vapor in the atmosphere of HAT-P-11b, a Neptune-sized world some 122 light years away in the constellation of Cygnus.

As reported on the Science News website, scientists analyzed data from the Hubble, Kepler, and Spitzer space telescopes to find the water by looking at the spectrum of light visible when the distant planet’s orbit brought it between Earth and its home star, an orange dwarf. The findings make HAT-P-11b the smallest planet yet known to possess water.

Coming soon: Solar batteries that recharge on their own Solar panels have typically operated by soaking up energy from sunlight; the energy is then transmitted to a battery, losing about 20 percent of the electricity captured by the light. Now, scientists from Ohio State University have developed a device that combines both functions: a solar cell that’s also a battery, capable of storing the energy it collects and recharging on its own.

The innovative energy source makes use of a mesh solar panel that permits air inside the battery. The battery “breathes,” and the light and oxygen interact to create chemical reactions and charge the battery.

A patent is pending; the U.S. Department of Energy, which funds the Ohio State project, works with the researchers to find new ways to enhance the solar battery’s performance.

Tooth is evidence of ancient reptile struggleLong ago, an epic battle occurred between two deadly enemies. The victor isn’t clear, but paleontologists at an excavation site in New Mexico have the evidence: a tooth embedded in the leg of an ancient dinosaur.

The struggle took place about 210 million years ago, reports the Sci-News website, between a crocodile-like amphibian dinosaur called a phytosaur and a large reptile known as a rauisuchid. Scientists previously believed that the two dominant species didn’t tangle with each other, since the rauisuchid ruled the land while the phytosaur patrolled the sea.

The discovery of a phytosaur tooth in the femur of a rauisuchid changes the theory of that relationship, though, and paleontologists expect to go back and challenge their assumptions about ecosystems during the Triassic period of Earth’s development.

Science Lab


Take this animal-based personality testThe question “What’s your spirit animal?” may sound like New Age psychobabble, but the Ying Ying Shi blog offers an “animal” quiz that may uncover some creative and thought-provoking insights about your personality and approach to life.

A psychological test given to youngsters asks three simple questions:

• Your favorite animal is _____.

• Your second favorite animal is _____.

• Your third favorite animal is _____. For each animal, list the characteristic that attracts you. Interpreting the results:

• The first animal represents your aspirations as a person.

• The second is a portrait of how other people see your personality.

• The third animal depicts your true personality.

Accurate or not, the quiz can start you thinking about who you are and who you want to become.

Spark your thinking right there at your desk The office cubicle may not seem conducive to creativity and inspiration, but you can get your imagination working if you know how to get started. Here are some ideas for charging up your brain without leaving your desk:

• Shake your surroundings up. Rearranging your area can put a new perspective on your work. Put your calendar on a different wall, for example, or change the background picture on your computer screen.

• Read something inspirational. Start the day by reading something short by a thinker you admire, or meditating on some thought-provoking quotations.

• Reinforce your goals. Write down your most important goals and display them somewhere visible. Seeing them through the day will remind you of what’s important and keep you focused on priorities.

• Laugh. Spend a few minutes watching a funny video by your favorite comedian or cartoonist, or read something from a humorous writer. Finding the humor in everyday situations can help you relax and think of new solutions to your problems.

Creativity


Success & Personal Growth

These folks redefine ‘hard work’If the key to success is hard work and then more hard work, take your cue from the habits of some of the world’s most successful people (as compiled by Business Insider):

• Michael Jordan. The pro basketball legend once spent his off season perfecting his game by taking hundreds of jump shots a day.

• Howard Schultz. The founder of Starbucks routinely puts in 13-hour days, arriving in his office at 6 a.m. and leaving at 7 p.m. Then he emails and talks to employees overseas from home—and works weekends as well.

• Jeffrey Immelt. Jack Welch’s successor as CEO of GE worked 100-hour weeks for 24 years, organizing his day to spend a specific amount of time on every area of GE’s business.

• Carlos Ghosn. CEO of two major automakers, Renault and Nissan, Ghosn is always on the go, spending 48 hours on airplanes every month and flying more than 150,000 miles a year.

• Marissa Mayer. Now the CEO of Yahoo, Mayer forged a successful career by working 130 hours a week at Google, pulling all-nighters and sleeping under her desk when necessary.

Failure isn’t fatal, but these mistakes make it worse Setbacks and disappointments are a part of life. You can’t avoid them, but you can learn from them. Just don’t make any of these three common mistakes when dealing with failure:

• Denial. A positive mindset is one thing, but you’ve got to be able to admit defeat. Don’t lie about what happened to others or to yourself. Concentrate on analyzing your mistakes honestly so you can make another attempt.

• Chasing losses. Don’t waste time pretending you’ve still got a chance at success when your plans are crumbling around you. You’ve got to be hard-nosed about deciding where to put your resources, and cold-blooded about pulling the plug on projects and goals that aren’t working out.

• Downplaying negative results. Some people try to act as if their failures are no big deal. Don’t lose hope or abandon your efforts, but be open about your feelings with yourself and other people. Anger and regret, within reasonable limits, can motivate you to start over again and reach your goal.

For long-term success, give up these detrimental traits• Success isn’t always about dominating the landscape. Sometimes it lies in what you’re willing to give up. Don’t cling to

these counterproductive behaviors in your quest to achieve your goals:

• The need to be right. Concentrate on getting results, not on proving your own intelligence and accuracy. Be open about your mistakes, and don’t worry about who gets the credit for victory. Help others succeed, and you’ll share in the glory.

• Speaking first. You don’t have to dominate every meeting and conversation. Make an effort to really listen to the people around you. Ask for their ideas and opinions. Give them the opportunity to share their thoughts, and they’ll become more comfortable communicating with you.

• Making every decision. Ask others what they would do, and be willing to accept that there may be more than one way to accomplish a task. Don’t insist that everyone do things your way.

• Control. You can’t stay on top of every task and decision, and you’ll drive yourself to exhaustion if you try. Identify what you really need to handle, and delegate responsibility for tasks that others can do just as well. Accept that some things (personal popularity, for example) are beyond your control so you can concentrate on the influence you have.


Anecdotes

The strange case of The Strange CaseMost of us are familiar with the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, in which a mild-mannered scientist transforms into a hideous, beastlike villain. The story behind the story is less dramatic, but also fascinating.

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894) had long been interested in the relationship between good and evil. One night his wife woke him in the middle of a nightmare, and he told her he’d been dreaming about a man turning into a monster. That became the genesis of the tale.

Stevenson wrote his story at a feverish pace, finishing a draft in about three days. As was his custom, he gave it to his wife for comments. She returned the pages saying that the tale was really an allegory, not a straightforward story. He took her advice to heart—so much so that he burned his first draft so he could revise it without relying on his previous version at all.

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde was an immediate success, spawning plays and movies devoted to the concept of two diametrically opposed personalities in the body of a single person.

The least deserving may be in the most need

A Zen master invited pupils for a gathering devoted to study and meditation for many weeks. One day a student was caught stealing from the others, and the matter was brought before the master. They insisted the thief be expelled, but the master declined and the student remained.

Several days later the thief was caught again, but once again the master refused to take action. Now the rest of the students were angry, and they drew up a petition demanding the dishonest one be thrown out. They presented their petition and waited for the response.

The master replied calmly, “You are all wise brothers who know what is right and what is not right. You may go anywhere to study if you wish. But this poor brother does not know right from wrong. Who will teach him if I do not?”

Check your assumptionsDr. Herbert L. Tanenbaum shares many stories about his years as a cardiologist in his book Out of the Doctor’s Bag (Beckham). One of them highlights the need to question assumptions carefully:

A doctor teaching medical students posed a diagnostic problem to his class. A patient reported that his urine was green—what could cause such an unusual symptom? The students were stumped, since nothing seemed to account for the strange coloration.

Finally the doctor revealed the answer: The patient was actually color blind, and couldn’t distinguish between green and red. He was thus passing blood, but mistook it for the wrong color.

Believe in yourselfMotivational speaker Brian Tracy likes to tell a story about a young man who graduated from a small-town high school with high grades. He applied to the state university, took the required aptitude test, and was accepted.

But during his first semester, the young man failed every course. His counselor finally brought him in for a meeting. “What seems to be the problem?”

“I can’t do the work,” the young man said. “My IQ is only 99. That’s what it said in my admission letter.”

The counselor pulled up the young man’s file. “No, this score of 99 puts you in the 99th percentile. That means that you scored equal to or higher than 99 percent of all the students in the country who took this test. You’re one of the brightest students on this campus.”

The young man stayed in school and graduated in the top 10 of his class.


Manager’s Mentor

Spur success with strategic goalsYou can’t lead people successfully unless you have a strong idea of what your organization wants to accomplish and a good sense of how to get there. Here’s how to set the right direction and bring the right people along with you:

• Determine your strategic goals. Ask this basic question: “Where do we want to go as an organization?” Get feedback from a wide cross-section of your workforce—top officers along with rank-and-file employees—so everyone feels involved.

• Analyze the past. What has prevented your organization from achieving its goals in the past? An honest and thorough evaluation should illuminate problems and gaps to fix before your organization moves forward.

• Identify what you have and what you need. Take a close look at your workforce. Do your people have the right mix of talents to support your strategy? What skills are you missing? Are your employees ready to change and willing to learn new strategies and tactics? You may need to push them in a positive direction.

• Develop your people. Hiring the best people in the world doesn’t exempt you from providing them development and training. Work with your employees to find out what they need in order to move forward, and how they can learn it—through mentoring, formal training seminars, apprenticeships, or whatever. Don’t forget to talk about how you’ll reward their development and performance so they’re motivated to succeed.

Learn to balance these key leadership skillsLeadership can feel like you’re juggling Ping-Pong balls—or sometimes chainsaws. You’ve got to manage a lot of different skills throughout your day, and dropping one can mean losing the rest. Keep your eyes and hands on these essentials:

• Goals. People can’t follow you if they don’t know where they’re going, how you plan to take them there, and what they can expect to see when they arrive. Provide a mixture of long-term objectives and short-term targets: to double your revenue in two years on the one hand, for instance, and to answer every customer question within 48 hours on the other.

• Plans. A goal isn’t the same as a plan. Telling people you want to double the size of your business is useless if you don’t explain how to make it happen. Even short-term goals can’t be achieved unless your people understand how to reach them. Get your employees involved in developing tactics so they’re motivated to carry out the plan.

• Leadership style. Different people respond to different types of leadership. Some people need detailed instructions and perform best when everything is spelled out thoroughly; others thrive on autonomy and making their own decisions about how to do a job. Learn to recognize what kind of leadership people need, and be conscious of the style you’re using.

• Trust. People need to believe you’ll do what you promise, enforce the rules consistently, and hold people accountable. Letting an employee get away with tardiness because of personal problems at home may feel like a favor, for instance, but if your workforce decides you’ve got a double standard, employees will lose respect for you as a leader.

Clarify your role in crisesWhen an emergency occurs, like a missed deadline or a sudden drop in sales, you naturally assign tasks that need to be done to solve the problem as quickly as possible. But do something else as well: Tell your workforce what you’ll be doing while they’re working hard. Employees are usually ready to help, but it’s motivating to know that you’re not simply giving all the work to them. Let them know if you’ll be taking on specific tasks, troubleshooting, relaying the latest information, etc. What you do counts, so let your employees see you leading.


Family Matters

Offer care to family caregiversPeople who take care of a sick relative, spouse, or child often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from friends and life outside their responsibilities. Here’s how you can lend them some assistance:

• Educate yourself. Find out about the disease or condition the sick person is suffering from. Ask the caregiver for suggestions on books to read. Your interest helps show your support.

• Keep in touch. Write or call just to ask the caregiver how things are going with him or her, as well as with the person who’s sick. Give caregivers a chance to talk about themselves and their feelings.

• Offer specific help. Pay attention to the caregiver’s duties so you can provide help—like running to the store to pick up groceries.

• Give your time. Give the caregiver a break—even if it’s just for an hour—while you volunteer to sit with the person who is sick.

Share TV and technology with your kids wiselyCritics frequently blame television, computer games, and the Internet for social ills like violence and the dissolution of the family. But technology can support positive relationships and good communication between parents and children who share and use it wisely. Try these tips:

• Teach history. If a TV show, video game, or website mentions a historical event—World War II, for example—use it as an opportunity to explore its background and impact with your child. Learning about such related topics can leave a lasting impression.

• Expose children to other cultures. The best television programs, games, and videos feature actors and characters from a wide spectrum of racial, cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds. Talk about the different cultures

with your kids. Understanding how people are different yet similar is a powerful way to prevent prejudice.

• Hold up good sportsmanship. When you turn on a football game or play on your Xbox, point out how the players cope with winning and losing, or how the game characters treat each other as they try to steal the diamond or battle the enemy. Instead of using technology as a babysitter, spend time learning about your child’s interest in a favorite show or game. You’ll build common interests and have more to talk about.

Help kids go smoke-freeIf you discover your teenager is smoking, don’t panic. Plenty of effective strategies can help him or her quit the habit without

harming your relationship, especially since punishment like withdrawing privileges can alienate teens and push them further into nicotine addiction.

Studies suggest that most teen smokers would actually like to quit. But your first step in helping your child kick the habit is to find out how serious he or she is about giving up cigarettes. Here are some strategies to help teens quit for good on their own accord:

• Give them the facts. Tell teens that while you respect their right to make their own decisions, you’d like to help them think this one through. Ask your teen if he or she knows the risks of smoking. If your child can name only a few, provide a longer list. Then set up another time to discuss it again.

• Play on their vanity. Remind teens that smoking leaves a bad smell and can stain their teeth and their fingers.

• Ask for gradual efforts. If your teen isn’t willing to quit cold turkey, ask if he or she can at least cut back to half the amount currently smoked. Or at least try it for one 24-hour period.


Grins & Giggles

The perils of taking a bathAt the end of a long, stressful day, Allison decided to take a nice relaxing bath. Just as she was settling into the water, her doorbell rang. Because she lived alone, no one else could answer it, and after repeated ringing she got up, put on a robe, and went downstairs.

The caller turned out to be a salesperson, and Allison quickly sent him away. Running some fresh hot water, she returned to her bath, only to be interrupted by the phone. Frustrated and more stressed than ever, she once again tried to lie in the tub, but two minutes later the doorbell rang again.

This time Allison slipped in some water on the bathroom tile and fell down hard. Staggering downstairs in pain, she tripped and tumbled the last few steps. Whoever had rung her doorbell was gone. Aching, Allison managed to climb back upstairs, get dressed, and hobble back down and outside to take a cab to the emergency room.

The doctor checked her over. “There’s no serious injury,” he assured Allison. “You just need to get some rest. How about a nice hot bath?”

The big swindleOne evening back when newsboys were a common sight on the streets of every city, one enterprising young lad dropped his stack of papers on the corner and started yelling: “Fifty businessmen swindled! Read all about it! Fifty businessmen swindled!”

A businessman promptly handed the boy a nickel and scanned the front page. Perplexed, he quickly skimmed the rest of the paper. “Hey,” he demanded, “there’s nothing in here about a big swindle!”

“Read all about it!” the newsboy cried. “Fifty-one businessmen swindled!”

True confession?Tom knelt in the confessional and said, “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned.”

“What sins are you confessing to, my son?”

“The sin of vanity. I spend hours looking at the mirror admiring how handsome I am.”

The priest, who recognized Tom’s voice, just smiled. “Don’t worry, son, that’s not a sin. It’s just a mistake.”

An expensive callSeveral men were sitting in the locker room after a game of golf when a cell phone on the bench rang. One of them picked it up: “Hello?”

“Honey? It’s me. I’m at the mall, and I found that fabulous mink coat for only $2,500. Could I buy it?”

“Of course,” the man said. “Is that all?”

“Well, I stopped by the Mercedes dealership, and the guy there offered a great deal on this year’s model—only $60,000! What do you think?”

“Sounds good.”

“And there’s this diamond necklace in the jewelry store that would look fantastic on me. I think it’s $1,500. What do you think?”

“Go for it.”

“Thanks, darling! I love you!”

The man hung up. “Anybody know whose cell phone this is?”


Money Matters

Manage your money through the decadesEach decade of life usually carries with it several big money moments. Major life events like landing a new job or getting married can be joyous, but they’re also opportunities for making crucial financial decisions—decisions that can have long-term implications on your personal wealth.

Here’s a list of financial moves to make if you are switching jobs, getting married, or starting a family:

Switching jobs

• Make sure you sign up for any health, disability, and life insurance offered by your new employer. Examine any tax-free flexible spending accounts available, and take the time to analyze all the other benefits in your compensation package.

• Consult with a financial planner about rolling your 401(k) account into a new individual retirement account or your new company’s retirement plan.

• If your new job brings with it a higher salary, make sure that any significant new purchases you make with your increased income are covered by your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Many policies limit coverage on jewelry, computers, etc. So you may want to look into purchasing a separate floater policy to fully cover your valuables.

Getting married

• Decide which assets and debts you plan to merge and which are to be handled separately. Also, discuss who will manage the accounts and who will be listed as beneficiaries on which investments.

• Write (or rewrite) your will. If you die without a will, courts in most states will decide how to distribute your possessions, sometimes without the consent of your spouse. Include in the will your wishes for medical care, should you become incapacitated.

Having a baby

• Once you have a child, life insurance should be as important as diapers. Buy a policy that is at least four times your salary, plus an extra two years’ salary for each child (minus your retirement and investment assets).

• Rewrite your will. Again, if you die without a will designating who you want to raise your children, then the courts must intervene and decide. Name a backup guardian, as well. Start a college savings account right away. Consider 529 plans that allow tax-free saving for education.

Follow the signs to a successful garage saleIf you’re like most people, you’ve probably accumulated a lot of possessions that you don’t need anymore, but are too good to throw away. Why not hold a garage or yard sale? You can clear out your home and make a little cash at the same time. Just follow these guidelines:

• Check community restrictions. Before making any plans, find out whether your town has rules limiting outdoor sales by citizens. You may need a permit, for example. Some communities allow residents only a specific number of yard or garage sales per year.

• Pick the right date. Don’t hold your sale on a holiday weekend. Most people are focused on the activities they already have planned. You’ll get a better turnout on an ordinary weekend when people don’t feel so busy.

• Advertise widely. Use the Internet to find websites that target your community and people interested in sales. Post notices in local shops. Have some signs ready for the day of the sale, directing passersby to your home (and once again, check regulations on posting signs around your neighborhood).

• Plan an attractive layout. Don’t just dump things in boxes and expect customers to search through them. Put books on bookcases; hang clothes up for display; lay items out on tables for customers to view easily; make sure you have an outlet available for customers to plug in and test lamps or electronics. Play some music to create an atmosphere. On a sunny day, maybe your kids could set up a lemonade stand.

• Mark prices wisely. Your goal is to get rid of things, not make a fortune. Set moderate prices, and be ready to negotiate. Mark prices clearly, and stick to round numbers ($2, not $1.75) so calculating totals and making change is easy.


Odds & Ends

Tips for keeping your fruits and veggies freshEach year Americans throw away spoiled fruits and vegetables because we don’t know how to properly store the different types of produce we buy. To prevent your produce from going to waste—and keep your grocery budget in line—follow these rules for cleaning and storage:

• Avocados. Don’t refrigerate until fully ripened; premature chilling will cause the insides to brown. Instead, ripen at room temperature. Afterward you can refrigerate to preserve them longer. They should keep from one to two weeks.

• Bananas. Don’t store near other fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, because bananas produce ethylene gas, which can spoil other produce. Also, don’t refrigerate, as chilling turns their skins black. Simply store at room temperature and they should keep from one to two weeks.

• Berries. Spread them out in a single layer in perforated plastic bags (be sure not to crowd them); then, refrigerate. Most varieties will not last longer than a week to 10 days, as mold develops easily. To minimize spoilage, don’t wash them until you eat them.

• Lettuce. You should first soak the leaves in cold water and then spin them in a salad spinner. Next, wrap the lettuce in paper towels, loosely place the bundle in a plastic bag, and refrigerate. Wrapping in water-absorbing paper discourages mold growth and should help the leaves stay fresh for up to three weeks.

• Tomatoes. Don’t refrigerate. Chilling causes a chemical reaction in tomatoes, which leads to a loss of flavor. Depending on how ripe they are when you buy them, tomatoes should last from one to three weeks if kept uncovered in a bowl away from heat.

Stick to your fitness resolutionsOne week into the new year and already you’ve chowed down on a dozen brownies and missed going to the gym? Don’t be too hard on yourself, but don’t give up on the diet and exercise resolution either. Keep trying, and remember that you’re human and prone to setbacks. Don’t let a failure to stick to a plan one or two or even a few days derail you from picking up and trying again. Follow this advice:

• Be realistic. If you’re trying to drop 20 pounds, don’t try to lose it all in a month. Set your sights on losing no more than a pound or two a week.

• Set specific goals. Don’t say you’ll exercise more. Instead, commit to walking 30 minutes during your lunch break three days a week.

• Find a partner. You’ll find sticking to your resolutions easier with a mutual support system. Get together with a buddy who’s trying to accomplish the same goals and give each other encouragement and company.

• Log your progress. Writing down how much weight you’ve lost, or how many times you’ve gone to the gym in the past week gives you a sense of accomplishment—and the encouragement to keep going. Also, it helps you to track any trouble spots and allows you to find solutions.

You might be a computer geek (or genius) if ...Computer geeks and tech nerds are suddenly cool, thanks to the media and also the success of people like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. You don’t have to be a millionaire to join the club, though. You just might be a geek if you know the answers to any of the following questions culled from the Vintage Computer Festival Nerd Trivia Challenge:

1. What was the Internet originally called?

2. Which legendary supercomputer was introduced in 1976?

3. Who founded Atari in 1972?

4. What was the original name of MS-DOS?


Quotations

“Everyone who is born holds dual citizenship, in the kingdom of the well and in the kingdom of the sick. ” —Susan Sontag “Embrace each challenge in your life as an opportunity for self-transformation.” —Bernie S. Siegel

“Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold. ” —Helen Keller

“The danger? But danger is one of the attractions of flight.” —Jean Conneau

“Work hard. And have patience. Because no matter who you are, you’re going to get hurt in your career and you have to be patient to get through the injuries. ” —Randy Johnson

“Climbing to the top demands strength, whether it is to the top of Mt. Everest or to the top of your career. ” —A. P. J. Abdul Kalam “Science is a way of thinking much more than it is a body of knowledge. ” —Carl Sagan

“Curiosity about life in all of its aspects, I think, is still the secret of great creative people. ” —Leo Burnett “You can’t wait for inspiration, you have to go after it with a club. ” —Jack London

“If you set your goals ridiculously high and it’s a failure, you will fail above everyone else’s success.” —James Cameron “Every great love starts with a great story.” —Nicholas Sparks

“There is no doubt fiction makes a better job of the truth.” —Doris Lessing

“Expectations are a form of first-class truth: If people believe it, it’s true.” —Bill Gates


Quotations

“The manager asks how and when; the leader asks what and why. ” —Warren Bennis

“What greater thing is there for human souls than to feel

that they are joined for life—to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories.”

—George Eliot

“I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose. ” —Woody Allen

“At the height of laughter, the universe is flung into a kaleidoscope of new possibilities.” —Jean Houston

“Money is the seed of money, and the first guinea is sometimes more difficult to acquire than the second million. ” —Jean Jacques Rousseau “Many speak the truth when they say that they despise riches, but they mean the riches possessed by other men. ” —Charles Caleb Colton “We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” —Edith Lovejoy Pierce

“Make your mistakes, next year and forever.” —Neil Gaiman

loc8 - tea break feb 2015 issue

Documents

hard people

better health

hard work

issue recognising

morning people

lead people

early bird

higher propensity