Is that ticking clock in the background really helping us work harder and more efficiently? Or is it giving us incentives to rush, slack off, or feel frustrated? In what context do deadlines help us or hurt us?

What are the key differences between a ritual and a routine? How does one empower us while the other leaves us dull and unsatisfied?

Businesses are still cutting down their staff hoping to maximize profits with as few workers as possible; for those of us who are lucky to have a job, now is not a good time to slack, or we could be next on the cutting board. Thankfully there some strategies we can take to combat with a busy work schedule and still maintain sanity.

Everyone has aspects of their life they want to change or improve upon. The trick is how do we stay committed to these intentions?

What do psychologists mean when they talk about the state of flow? How can this state of mind benefit our productivity and overall life satisfaction?

We all have certain aspirations in life. Some of us tell our friends and family about them, some of us write them down, while others just feel comfortable enough keeping these dreams tucked inside their heads. Whatever we do – they are there. However, the more we address them, and the more we think and contemplate about how to achieve them, the greater chance we have to successfully follow through on these plans.

As we enter a new year, I would like to recommend we all take a new focus on what it means to live relaxed and centered. The holidays have ended, the economy continues to hurt, and many find themselves under hefty work schedules, but it is never a bad idea to take a step back to rejuvenate ourselves.