JANUARY 2008: BIZ LIFE - HIGH FIVE
New year, new you
It’s that time of year again. But instead of simply going
through the motions and creating an average list of New
Year’s resolutions (how many times can you vow to get
organized or lose weight?), take a fresh approach. Resolve to
make yourself whole on a deeper level. As a result,
you’ll notice positive changes in everything from work
and relationships to free time and physical health. We asked
Kelley Black of Balancing the Executive Life, a New York-based
company, and Lisa Renee Anderson, a career and life coach in
Eugene, to come up with five meaningful resolutions.
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Master your own
breath. Because your breathing shortens and quickens
when you’re under stress, making you less efficient,
practicing a few basic breathing exercises will help you stay
sharp, focused and in control under any circumstances.
“It’s a powerful tool that makes you less
reactive,” Black says. “Not only does your
physiology change with each breath, but your mind gains a
neutral point from which to function.”
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Take time for personal and
spiritual development. “People tend to get
two-dimensional, especially in the business world,”
says Anderson. “By taking time for yourself and
reflection, you become a complete person.” Your version
may include learning a new language, attending church, going
for a run or reading an inspirational book.
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Create time for professional
development. Get out of career slumps by signing up
for training on your own, apart from your company. “Get
excited about something work-related again in your own
way,” Anderson advises. “It’s important to
reinvigorate your passion and curiosity.”
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Be still for some amount of
time every day. “Think about being still for
just three, five or seven minutes,” Black recommends.
“Just sit and connect with your breath and
yourself.” By indulging in a few minutes of quiet,
you’ll clear your mind and your body. Try it before
going to bed to make peace with the day and enjoy a deeper
sleep.
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Learn when to hang in there
and when to quit. People tend to fall into one of two
categories, explains Anderson. Either they quit at the drop
of a hat or hang in for way too long. By learning to evaluate
your circumstances, you can become the happy medium.
“It’s a simple skill that can be
developed,” she
says.
LUCY BURNINGHAM
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