Reading and Self-Improvement

There are plenty of great books for June reading at the park, beach, and backyard. Most of us enjoy a good murder mystery or a nice romance novel.

However, purchase at least 1 or 2 books for self-improvement. For example, if you learning to bake, buy a book on healthy desserts. If you are not sure about your purchase, you can borrow the book from the library before making a book purchase.

Self Improvement (Motivating a Spouse)

This year has been filled with economic turmoil and each of us can name a neighbor, friend, or family member who have experienced a company layoff, cutback, or merger and we have a tendency to know what to say to the person. For example, "I'll look out at my company", or "Keep me posted on your job search". However, we tend to experience greater shock if the layoff/job problem involves our spouse.

A spouse should be motivated and given the same positive responses. Also, since his/her job search has a direct physical/emotional/financial connection to you it may take time to accept what he/she has experienced. Here are a few ideas:

1) Hold a meeting with your spouse regularly to discuss his/her concerns and/or fears concerning a job search.
2) Provide physical support such as offering to do a disliked household chore or enjoy a low-cost movie matinee to remind both of you that you still have each other.
3) Offer to take the children for a few extra hours weekly so that your spouse can enjoy his/her favorite hobby/sport.

By keeping the househould positive and allowing your spouse time to review his/her life, you are providing the best of yourself.

Self Improvement (Motivation)

Tomorrow is Monday. Many of us dread it because of undesired/unfulfilled jobs and the lack of desire or uncertainty to make a significant change. As women with chronic diseases/disorders, it can be more challenging to find a desire business/job based on our educations, employment histories, passions, and talents. The first thing needed is the motivation to make a change. You may want to make a small change such as taking a class, or speaking with a person who is performing your desired job. Consider the following low-cost options:

1) Attend a library or small business administration workshop about business/careers/jobs.
2) Borrow books from the library about different businesses.
3) Consider taking a business/career compatibility-type test before taking expensive courses.
4) Discover your talents by volunteering.
5) Watch for business/workforce trends to determine areas for future growth.

By investigating your options, you may be able to find a business, career, or job and enjoy your Monday mornings.

Self Improvement (Stress Reduction)

Close you eyes and count to ten...think about the sunset which relaxing on a tropical, remote location...Imagine no phones, e-mails, visitors, barking pets, or noise...now open your eyes. I'm sorry I had to bring you back to reality but this vision can help you relax after a long day. Women tend to feel guilty when we step away from our responsibilities but it is important to mix business with pleasure. When your chronic disease/disorder is causing you stress, here are some ways to maintain your health without guilt:

• Schedule 15 minutes in the morning to sip a cup of tea/coffee on your balcony/porch/patio.
• Put the children to bed early to give yourself time to watch a 30 minute sitcom, read 2 to 3 book chapters, or check any personal e-mail for anniversary, birthday, or holiday invitations.
• Listen to jazz music while doing house chores.
• Minimize/delete unnecessary projects.
• Take a break every hour when performing computer work to minimize tension.