Talking Out of Turn

In a world where we’re so often defined by our differences, it’s important to remember the handful of universal truths that bind us: puppies are cute, going to bed without setting an alarm is bliss, free food is the best food, leaving work early is magnificent, and it’s awesome when your favorite song comes on the radio. You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who has something negative to say about these ties that bind. Another universal truth: compliments. Compliments have this powerful, almost mystical effect on both the giver and the receiver. They can instill confidence, provide validation, build relationships, and go a long way toward improving someone’s mood. Science says so too. Researchers have found that compliments actually activate the striatum area of the brain (the area that regulates a range of cognitive functions, such as feelings of reward, motivation, and decision-making), and actually improve peoples’ performance. They studied the effects of

As a prelude to the spring cleaning season, “National Clean Off Your Desk Day”falls on the second Monday of January each year.This holiday is actually one to rally around. There are so many reasons to have a cleaner, more organized desk and reclaim control of your workspace, ranging from increased productivity to privacy concerns. Before even listing the reasons, it’s a simple, objective, and almost universal truth that your workspace speaks for you when you’re not there. So, keep that in mind when you leave your partially-consumed, special edition Pringles can and its residual crumbs strewn about your work area. Okay, off of the soap box and on to the reasons for a clean, organized, uncluttered work space: · You’ll look more professional. · You’ll work more efficiently. · You’ll have more room to actually work. · You’ll feel more at peace than you would with a cluttered, chaotic desk. · Sensitive or private information remains sensitive and private (this

As we settle into the December holidays, you’re likely in full gift-giving mode. It can be stressful, though, to find a gift that is meaningful, affordable, sentimental, and practical (in other words: perfect).  Of course, the holidays aren’t just about presents. Time with family and friends, moments of reflection and atonement, and feelings of gratitude and compassion are far and away more important than receiving gifts. But let’s not kid ourselves: Giving and receiving presents is fun. This year, whether the Christmas tree and holiday stockings are the focal point of your December celebrations or you just enjoy a festive opportunity to celebrate the people in your life, follow this timeless gift guide to find the perfect stocking stuffers this season (or keep in mind for next year!). Travel Bags and Totes A key aspect of gift-giving is to buy the recipient something he or she may not buy for themselves. With that in mind, a quality and cute travel bag, tot