Estienne, Henri

Tema: Velhice
Se a juventude soubesse, se a velhice pudesse

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La Bruyère, Jean de

O amor começa pelo amor; não se pode passar de uma forte amizade senão para um amor fraco

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Bacon, Francis

O amor tem todos os encantos de uma sereia e os transportes de uma fúria

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Saint-Exupéry, Antoine de

Só se vê bem com o coração, o essencial é invisível para os olhos

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Bulwer-Lytton, Edward

Tema: Livro
Em ciência lê os livros mais novos, em literatura lê os mais antigos

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Shakespeare, William

Tema: Homem
Que é o homem, se a sua máxima ocupação e o bem maior não passam de comer e dormir?

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Ésquilo

Apenas quem terminou a sua vida sem sofrimento / pode considerar-se feliz

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Silva, Agostinho

Tema: Felicidade
Poderia perguntar-se se é realmente a felicidade o valor máximo que a Humanidade procura e se não é a felicidade apenas um instrumento de alguma coisa mais fundamental do que ela

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Dostoievski, Fiodor

Podem ter a certeza de que não foi quando descobriu a América, mas sim quando estava a descobri-la, que Colombo se sentiu feliz

@notiun

Gostei do seu Tumblr, Seguindo :D

Obrigada por me seguir, meu caro/minha cara! É bem-vindo/a. Espero que continue gostando do nosso conteúdo. Um abraço.

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Photo

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6 Fundamentals For Online Marketing Success

We have gotten incredibly used to- even addicted to, in some cases- buying stuff online. I mean, who bothers to call up fast food joints when you can simply use their website to place your order? It took some time for people to get used to this though, and there are still more than a few people who don’t feel safe paying for anything in the online environment. But as time passes, this number is going down significantly.

Hence, conditions for online sales are optimal and everyone is attempting to make a profit. What the majority of people do not realize is that eCommerce isn’t easy. Quite the contrary, the fact that the conditions for online sales are so good can make it difficult to get spotted in the crowd.

The vast majority of websites out there are attempting to sell something to the people that land on their pages, whether directly, through an affiliate, or banners. Regardless, the prevalence of these kinds of techniques leaves customers reluctant to pay attention, making marketing an integral component of achieving eCommerce success.

1. Keep in mind that you are marketing to people

A lot of people who are new to online marketing might be confused by this first point- but it’s no joke. After a couple of years of active participation in online marketing endeavors without seeing a single face, you may start to grow detached from reality. People start perceiving their traffic as just stats that need to be improved through taking mechanical, predefined steps. This is a hole you need to get out of since no real eCommerce business success story ever came from disregarding the wishes of the audience. In an era where the strongest online empires, like Google, are doing their best to cater to the needs of users, doing the opposite makes absolutely no sense. This is especially important for eCommerce marketing since the only way you can sell anything effectively online is to truly engage your customers.

2. Content is a necessity- regardless of what you sell

The phrase “content is king” has been dragged around the web for so long that it has started to losing its impact. This doesn’t make content’s crown shine any less, though. Its role in the online marketing environment has become crucial for businesses of all profiles and sizes. So many good things come from great content if you know how to use it. Here are some of the benefits that great content can provide:

• SEO visibility
• Enhanced customer engagement
• Social media signals
• Enhanced traffic
• Referral links

Wondering if you have produced great content? Once you have your final version of the content in front of you, ask yourself if you would read it- or even better, put yourself in your target audiences’ shoes, and ask the same question. If the answer is no, you are still not there yet. Don’t allow yourself to start coming up with excuses for your content’s shortcomings.

3. Social media presence needs to be more than just a bot

If you want a prime example of this go to Twitter and start adding people who are promoting a commercial interest and have somewhere between 500 and 5,000 followers. The only interaction you will manage to get from them is a bot response: an automated message with a call-to-action twist or a simple introduction message. Since everyone is using this approach the whole interaction boils down to bots communicating with each other, ultimately benefiting no one.

4. Proper targeting is essential for conversion

Regardless of what combination of online advertising approaches you decide to use, in order to be able to sell anything online you have to find the people who have the biggest chance of being interested in what you have to offer. By doing some market research you can easily optimize your marketing budget and increase your sales. It is a good idea to see what others are doing to reach their customers and optimize their targeting, in order to implement the approaches that fit your needs best. Don’t get set in your ways once you’ve done your first round of market research. Test things all the time and continue honing your scope. This is a process that includes continuous testing; it’s not just a matter of applying a mathematical formula.

5. Pay-per-click is not enough

A lot of people start out their journey into eCommerce by hypothesizing that they can invest in a decent website and boost it through pay-per-click (PPC), in the process earning a profit. Sadly, this almost never works and they subsequently realize that they need to modify their approach or sink completely. The problem is that as an approach PPC doesn’t give you optimal conversion rates on it’s own. To succeed you need natural traffic, people that are really searching for a solution to a problem that you are able to help them address.

6. Product photos sell

Shabby, amateur product photography is OK for selling used products, clothing, and other stuff on eBay or Amazon, but if you want to foster a legit, strong eCommerce presence, you really need to use professional product photography. As a form of content, good photography has a lot of engagement potential and is in second place, right behind video content, when it comes to social media shareability. Furthermore, when deciding to buy a product online the photos mean the world to the customer. He or she don’t get to hold the product in their hands; charts, specifications, and text descriptions are great, but without photos they don’t have enough information to make a final decision. The pricier the product, the better the photos need to be.

Making yourself visible is a top priority when trying to achieve eCommerce success. But you don’t want to just be another person in the crowd. Taking a step further and actually engaging your customers, instead of hoping that they will randomly decide to click on your advertisement is the difference in attitude you need in order to achieve success.

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25 Small Things to Do in Everyday Life to Boost Happiness

Happiness is a big word, but it can be found in the smallest of things. Whether it’s the smell of roasted coffee beans in the morning or the simple refreshment of a good night’s sleep, it all adds up. Rinse your day for all it’s worth and find little lifts in everything you do—here are 25 on the house to get you started.

1. Wake up to music that sets the right mood (a bit of Bob Marley if you swing that way).

2. Feel the grass between your toes on a warm Sunday afternoon when there is nothing to do and nothing to worry about.

3. Savor your morning cup of coffee (don’t be in that stressful rush so early in the morning) and start your day right.

4. Sing in the shower like no one is listening.

5. Dance in a public place like no one is watching.

6. Read a good book and forget that you’re on a carriage, in rush hour, with your face in an old man’s armpit.

7. Use your lunch breaks to throw insults, jibes and food—don’t waste this hour of each day (those minutes add up).

8. Eat properly and luxuriously. Forget sad lunches (the pack of digestives left in the cupboard). Branch out with a pesto and mozzarella panini with tomatoes, or a tasty falafal salad.

9. Sleep for 7–8 hours a night, or you’ll waste precious cheerful time being tired and cranky on the train, in the bus queue, in the crowds of tourists as you leave the station.

10. Take the time to lie on the grass and make stories out of clouds, or, if it’s raining, lie on your carpet and see shapes on the ceiling.

11. Find some time to treat Mr. Tibbles to some affectionate patting and reap the rewards of pet therapy.

12. Exercise: throw some mad shapes, learn to hula, shoot hoops, whatever your hobby is make sure you’re squeezing those endorphins into your routine.

13. Take in some nice scenery: that park near your office, the vista from the top of the hill at the end of your road—let your eyes wander into the distance and feel those happy chemicals run free in your brain.

14. Eat bananas, packed full with that happy serotonin.

15. Surprise yourself with impulsive decisions and mix up your day-to-day with a new tattoo, a daring date or that risky haircut you’ve been too afraid you couldn’t pull off.

16. Ask the sexy barrista out on a date—the adrenaline rush will be worth it no matter what the reply is.

17. Make sure you’re giving the people you care about plenty of love—in a hug, a clap on the back, or a whole-hearted chest bump. Human contact is always a nice feeling (unless it’s on a packed train, in which case, it doesn’t count).

18. Reconnect with old friends and broaden your horizons with as many people in your life as possible.

19. Talk to a stranger, everyday, and spice up your communication.

20. Find new routes home, new routes out, and discover the richness of your area.

21. Make sure you’re exposed to that fresh air. The stuffy surroundings of an office could make the cheeriest go-getter wilt and grumble.

22. Meditate for a few minutes every day, whether you enjoy twisting yourself into prestles during yoga or kneeling in a pew. Either way, you’re sure to clear your mind and gain some precious perspective.

23. Open your promotional emails. Everyday. We know you don’t want to open another Groupon ad. None of us do. But keep on top of them and one day, there might actually be no unread messages in your inbox (we can dare to dream).

24. Tell a secret. A secret a day could keep your doctors away (or at least your therapists). Don’t keep it bottled up; keep your friends close and release the inner demons. You’ll feel ten times lighter.

25. Make lists. There’s nothing more satisfying that ticking that last item on a list. Get things done, be productive and appreciate the written proof that you are amazing.

Featured photo credit: Ed Gregory via stokpic.com

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5 Surprising Health Benefits of Ginger (Plus an Easy Ginger and Honey Tea Recipe!)

Ginger has many medical benefits and has been used for centuries around the world as a way to treat ailments from nausea to inflammatory issues. Ginger is also commonly used in tea to as a way of maximizing its many health properties. Here are a few ailments that it can help cure, along with an easy recipe for ginger tea with honey.

1. It improves blood circulation

Compounds found within ginger like gingerols and zingerone are known to help warm up the body, thus creating improved circulation. The amino acids in ginger assist in increasing circulation and decreasing the possibility of cardiovascular diseases. There are also many positive side effects of improved circulation that include more key nutrients, minerals and oxygen being spread throughout the body, and the promotion of cell growth and healthy organ function.

2. It assists in pain relief

Gingerol, a key compound found in ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that helps block the chemical COX-2 produced in the body that creates the sensation of pain. Drinking ginger tea is recommended for those individuals suffering from gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis- as well as for use by athletes post-workout to prevent swelling. For those who suffer from migraines, ginger can help by blocking the prostaglandins that are responsible for causing headaches.

3. It helps ease menstrual cramps

Ginger is known to be effective in treating the symptoms associated with menstruation: cramps, fatigue and PMS. Ginger tea helps relax the muscles, thus reducing any cramps associated with this time of the month. Women who often have heavy or irregular periods will find relief with ginger tea.

4. It helps fight nausea and digestive tract ailments

Ginger is perhaps most famously known for its ability to ease nausea or stomach-related ailments. Active properties like volatile oils and phenol compounds help relieve an upset stomach. Women who are suffering from morning sickness are also recommended to slowly sip a cup of ginger tea to settle their stomach. This same natural remedy is prescribed for patients who are undergoing chemotherapy and suffering nausea as a result. If you suffer from motion sickness, drinking a cup of ginger tea before you hit the road should help make your journey more bearable.

5. It helps strengthen your immune system

Due to containing antioxidants, ginger helps keep colds at bay- and when you do get sick it lessens the duration of your illness. It help break down the toxins in your body quickly, thus allowing your body to get rid of them faster. Ginger also contains chromium, zinc and magnesium, aiding the immune system. Not only this, but it has antibiotic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help prevent many common health ailments and infections.

There are many different ways to consume ginger, but drinking it as a tea is most effective. However, make sure not to drink more than three cups of ginger tea a day, otherwise it can have adverse effects on your body. Here is an easy recipe so you can make this soothing beverage at home.

Ingredients

• 4 to 6 thin slices of raw ginger
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups of filtered water
• Lemon juice
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw honey

Directions

1. Peel the ginger root and rinse it well

2. Thinly slice the ginger

3. Bring to to the boil with 1 1/2 cups of filtered water and add the ginger slices

4. Add a lid to the pot and let it simmer on a low heat for about 10 minutes

5. Strain the water to remove any of the ginger slices from the tea

6. Squeeze in a little lemon (you can vary the amount depending on personal preference)

7. Stir in one to two tablespoons of raw honey

8. Let it cool down a bit and then enjoy!

Featured photo credit: Getting out the ginger for some tea / Karen Mardahl via flickr.com

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6 Teas That Block Fat And Prevent Obesity

Drinking tea is not only a relaxing and pleasurable experience, but it is also one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world next to water. The global per capita consumption of tea is around 120 ml/ day. Its huge popularity may be credited to the fact that it is rather cheap, stimulating and filled with sensorial properties that people just cannot resist. Oh, and by the way…have I mentioned their immense health benefits and their potential for treating/preventing our pandemic called obesity that now affects one-third of the global population? No? Then, let’s dive into it, shall we?

White Tea

Image Credit: healthywaukesha dot com

White tea has probably one of the most accepted flavors in Europe when it comes to teas in general. This tea is steamed and dried right after picking to prevent it from oxidation, which in turn gives its light and delicate taste that Europeans love so much.

How does it promote weight loss?

• stimulation of hepatic lipid metabolism: lipid metabolism refers to the process by which fatty acids are broken down for energy and/or stored as energy for later use. The term “hepatic” means that this process takes place within the liver.
• inhibition of lipases: Lipase inhibitors decrease the amount of fat your body absorbs and actually forces the fat consumed to be excreted instead of absorbed.
• thermogenesis stimulation: The term refers to our body’s natural process of heat production that can significantly contribute to weight loss if naturally regulated.
• appetite control
• working along with coffee

Chemicals found in WT that help block fat:

The main components of white tea include proteins, minerals, polyphenols , polysaccharides  and trace elements of organic and amino acids, lignins and methylxanthines (caffeine, theobromine and theophylline).

References:

1. T. R. Dias,et al. White Tea (Camellia Sinensis (L.)): Antioxidant Properties And Beneficial Health Effects.International Journal of Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics (IJFS) ISSN 2326-3350.2(2), 19-26. First published online: February 26, 2013

Green Tea

Green Tea is probably the most renowned tea on the market. It might be safe to assert that it is one of the healthiest beverages on the planet that you could ever drink. It is filled with much needed antioxidants and nutrients that all work in cooperation to improve brain function, facilitate fat loss and lower the risk of cancer and other debilitating diseases.

How does it promote weight loss?

• Increased thermogenesis and fat oxidation: due to its green tea-caffeine mixture (epigallocatechin gallate + caffeine)
• Inhibition of phosphodiesterase: the inhibition of this enzyme leads to increased fat oxidation and thermogenesis
• Reduced weight regain: a green tea-caffeine mixture has the wonderful side effect of reducing body weight regain after significant weight loss. Green tea achieves  that through the thermogenic effect mentioned above.

Chemicals found in WT that help block fat:

Scientific studies have shown that green tea contains a large amounts of tea catechins. Catechol-O-methyltransferase is known as an intracellular enzyme and is omnipresent throughout all mammalian tissues, including skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. COMT is an active enzyme that stimulates the breakdown of fats and other lipids by hydrolysis to release fatty acids.

References:

1. Margriet S,et al. Body Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance in Relation to Habitual Caffeine Intake and Green Tea Supplementation. Obesity Research Volume 13, Issue 7, Article first published online: 6 SEP 2012.
2. Kevin C,et al. Green Tea Catechin Consumption Enhances Exercise-Induced Abdominal Fat Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults.The Journal of Nutrition. Nutrition and Disease. First published online: December 11, 2008.

Black Tea

Image credit: A Girl With Tea at flickr

Black tea is another kind of tea that is currently experiencing a new revival due to its recently revealed health benefits. Black tea is stronger in flavor than its less oxidized counterparts, and it accounts for more than 90% of all tea sold in the Western world. Another important aspect of the tea that is worth mentioning is that while green tea tends to lose its flavor within half a year, black tea is able to retain its flavor for several years.

How does it promote weight loss?

Research conducted into its effects on weight loss has found that black tea increases the rate at which the body is able to bring cortisol levels back to normal and actually calm them down. Whenever we are in a stressful situation of any kind (be it work-related or personal) adrenaline causes our fat cells to release fatty acids into the blood stream.

When that happens, the cortisol hormone picks those released fatty acids up and stores them. Where do you think those stored fat reserves end up? Well, you guessed right: in your belly! Moreover, when the fat is stored instead of being burnt as energy, your body goes out looking for more calories, which can seriously hinder your weight loss goals for good.

Chemicals found in BT that help block fat:

According to the latest studies conducted into the health benefits of black tea, due to its presence of polysaccharides (carbs that work to slow down your blood sugar absorption and promote weight loss by regulating your appetite), black tea serves as an excellent alternative to those who are victims of any types of diabetes. It is also presumed that the habitual consumption of black tea may prevent you from developing diabetes in the first place.

Interesting Fact: Ireland and Britain, where black tea consumption is the highest, type 2 diabetes has the lowest prevalence.

Given its rich source of antioxidants, it also contributes to our overall health, wellness, cardiovascular health and strong immune system that are all vital factors when it comes to our weight loss aspirations.

References:

1. Andrew Steptoe,et al. The effects of tea on psychophysiological stress responsivity and post-stress recovery: a randomised double-blind trial.Psychopharmacology.January 2007, Volume 190, Issue 1, pp 81-89. Published online:  30 Sep 2006

Barberry Tea

Barberine is a naturally occuring chemical that is extracted from the barberry shrub and has been known to prevent weight gain even when on a high-fat diet. Barberine has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine as drug to treat intestinal infections, specifically bacterial diarrhea.

How does it promote weight loss?

Recent studies have revealed berberine to be clinically effective in alleviating type 2 diabetes due to its inhibition of fasting plasma glucose, postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, and low-density lipo protein cholesterol levels.

Chemicals found in BB that help block fat:

A major pharmacological component of the Chinese herb Coptis chinensis was originally used to treat diarrhea but it now has been found that it is just as equally effective in alleviating diabetes. The same study on which my insights into berberine are based went on to claim that berberine administered at 100 mg/ kilo of bodyweight effectively prevented the development of obesity and insulin resistance in high-fat diets while it also significantly reduced habitual food intake in both animal and human trials.

References:

1. Xu Zhang, et al.Structural Changes of Gut Microbiota during BerberineMediated Prevention of Obesity and Insulin Resistance in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats.PLoS ONE 7(8): e42529. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0042529.Published online: August 3, 2012.

Rooibos Tea

Image Credit: eatthis dot com

Scientific evidences pertaining to Rooibos tea are emerging almost every day now. The reason for such publicity lies in its health benefits, especially the ones associated with consuming it in liquid form. Given its high levels of antioxidants and other powerful substances that help fight off free radicals in our bloodstream, it is no wonder that it has such a renown when it comes to keeping our body healthy and strong.

How does it promote weight loss?

A study conducted by Uličná, et al. found that Rooibos provides substantial protection against oxidative stress in diabetic rats. Having completed numerous animal trials, they started using human patients to see how Rooibos can actually serve as a viable therapy of blood vessel complications and eye membrane system peroxidation.

Chemicals found in RT that help block fat:

• Polyphenols and flavonoids: These substances found in Roobios are considered to be extremely effective in combating obesity in general
• Soluble Solids from fermented Rooibos: Studies found that these soluble solids inhibited the formation of fatty tissue (called adipogenesis) while also had a huge effect on fat cell(adipocyte) metabolism.
• Aspalathin: It can be found in Rooibos tea and proved to carry beneficial effects on glucose homoestasis in type 2 diabetes patients by stimulating both glucose uptake in the muscle tissues and insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells.

References

1. Prof Michael C Herbst.Fact Sheet on Rooibos Tea. Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). Published online: May 2015.

Pu-erh Tea

Image credit: Cynthia fazekas at flickr

Pu-erh tea is another runner-up for the prize of the most healthy teas of all time. It has long been used and consumed by people in southwestern China for its alleged benefits to health. These include protection against  oxidation, cancer, atherosclerosis, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and many others.

How does it promote weight loss?

Scientists performing these clinical trials on animals came to the conclusion that Pu-erh tea potentially and significantly lowered triglyceride concentrations (this is a dangerous kind of fat within our blood) in and around the belly of these animals even after committing them to high-fat diets.

Chemicals found in PT that help block fat:

Chemicals in Pu-erh tea are abound. Several research groups reported that, since this tea is a post-fermented one, during the fermentation process, levels of certain acids were significantly lower while the overall gallic content of the tea was elevated. What this indicates is that gallic acid is considered one of the main active components of Pu-erh tea that may help explain its potential health benefits in terms of preventing obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and many other disorders.

References:

1. YiHong Ding, et al. Pu-Erh Tea Down-Regulates Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein and Stearyol-CoA Desaturase to Reduce Fat Storage in Caenorhaditis elegans.Published online: February 6, 2015

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10 Signs You’re Under Too Much Stress

If you’ve ever been through a time in your life in which you were constantly stressed out, you probably felt less and less like “yourself” each day, and more like a worn out shell of a human. While you may have thought “This stress is killing me,” you most likely persevered through the tough times without really doing anything to alleviate your pains. However, doing so only prolongs and exacerbates the issue at hand, and causes long-lasting detrimental effects to your body if left unchecked. Know the signs of stress before it overtakes you completely.

1. You’re exhausted

If you have trouble getting out of bed everyday, despite getting a full night’s rest, you’re probably clinically exhausted. Jane Pernotto Ehrman, M. Ed., a behavioral health specialist at Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute, reports, “Stress is an energy-drainer, because it secretly sends all of your body systems into overdrive.” Since your body feels like it’s working overtime, even getting a good night’s sleep is not enough to recharge it for the following day. Take action to reduce the stress in your life. Your body will thank you.

2. You can’t sleep

Ironically, despite being incredibly exhausted at all times, when you’re stressed out it becomes increasingly more difficult to actually fall sleep. Stress-related insomnia stems from not being able to stop thinking about all your obligations in life, combined with the fact that your body is still in “overdrive mode” regardless of what time it is. And, of course, since you can’t sleep, you’ll be even more exhausted the following day, which will only serve to increase your stress load.

3. You’re always sick

Obviously, if you’re having trouble sleeping, sickness will follow shortly after insomnia has taken hold. Since your body has been working overtime during this stressful period, it hasn’t had any time to actually recover from any minor illness or disease that has crept in, and you’ll have a hard time fighting off even the smallest cold. Studies have shown your immune system becomes suppressed by about 30% when you’re stressed out. Taking a “mental health day” is often a euphemism for “skipping work,” but sometimes it needs to be done in order to maintain a healthy mind and body.

4. You’re absent-minded

When you’re stressed out, it’s most likely because you have too much on your plate at once. With major work and life responsibilities looming over your head, it’s tough to keep track of all the little things. If you find yourself at a point in which you can’t remember where you put your keys or you’re forgetting appointments and meetings regularly, you’re most likely stressed almost to your breaking point. Don’t let it go farther without seeking help.

5. You have chronic head and body aches

As I said before, your body puts itself into hyper mode when you’re stressed out. This fatigue not only affects your focus and attention, but also puts a physical strain on your body. Your body has a natural “fight or flight” mechanism which stemmed from the early days of humanity in which we had to actually dodge predators on a normal basis. Nowadays, though we don’t have to worry about lions and bears coming out of nowhere to attack us, our body reacts the same way to recurring stress accrued from work and other parts of life. Why do you think getting a shoulder rub feels so great after a long day? Because your body’s been tense for the past eight hours dealing with all the garbage you’ve had to deal with.

6. You’ve become indifferent sexually

When you’re stressed out and have a ton of issues on your mind, your sex drive is likely to decrease. You might be frustrated about it and wish you could do something about it, but when the opportunity arises, you’ll find yourself not being able to focus, or not being in the mood at all. Try to relieve stress by exercising often.

7. You’ve become overly emotional

Lucie Hemmen, Ph.D, a psychologist in Santa Cruz, CA explains, “When you’re super-stressed, the brain stem — the primitive part of your brain — takes over, and the part that anticipates outcomes goes dark.” This explains why being stressed will cause you to literally cry over spilled milk, or fly into a rage if someone honks their horn at you. Remember when you were a kid and would stay up way too late, and catch a case of the giggles? Same concept. Your body was so stressed out from exhaustion that even the slightest thing set you off, albeit in a silly way. When you’re an adult, and your stress causes you to flip someone off for bumping into you on the subway, it’s not so funny.

8. You have digestive issues

I can’t stress enough how being under too much pressure can lead to physical discomfort. That feeling of nausea you get when you pull into your office’s parking lot is a direct response to the stress you’re already feeling about the day ahead of you. But it’s not as simple as a quick rumble in your stomach. It could cause problems with your digestive system that could lead to vomiting or other issues.

9. You feel light-headed and dizzy

Everyone knows to take deep breaths and try to relax when they’re feeling stressed, right? This acts as a reminder to breathe when you feel yourself starting to panic. When instinct kicks in, you actually deprive yourself of oxygen with each short breath you take, leading to dizziness and “the shakes,” which could lead to a loss of consciousness. Don’t “hold it in” when stress hits you hard. Do your best to weather the storm before you cause even more damage to your body and mind.

10. You resort to coping mechanisms

After a hard day’s work, you might want to just go home and grab a bottle of beer from the fridge while you catch up on some TV. While there’s nothing wrong with having a drink or two after you’ve come home and relaxed for a while, there’s definitely a problem with drinking in order to relax. Chances are you’ll wake up the next morning with an even higher level of stress than you went to bed with. If you find you’re relying on drugs or alcohol more and more in order to alleviate stress, you should seek help immediately.

Featured photo credit: Flickr via farm8.staticflickr.com

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6 Ways To Become The Greatest Asset Of Your Business

A business is only as good as the people that comprise it. There are a lot of moving parts and approaches to consider when plotting an upward trajectory for a company. Let’s not forget about the most important asset any firm can have: it’s employees. This includes you!

If you want to help your business succeed, you need to invest in yourself. Work on improving yourself and you will inspire your team members to do the same. Your business will benefit as a result. Here are 6 ways to make yourself the greatest asset of your business.

1. Improve your health and energy levels

Work days can be long and stressful. Without the health and energy to make it through a day, you will never be able to do your best work and help your company thrive. Follow Anna Shelley’s advice and ask yourself every day, “What is one thing I can do today for my health?” Go for a walk. Eat your veggies. Drink more water. Get enough sleep. There are limitless options to choose from.

2. Establish successful habits and routines

Willpower is a finite resource. Habits are different. Habit, once attained, become automatic and no longer need willpower to keep up. What successful habits and routines would you like to add to your day? Kyle Hart provides a list of 16 everyday habits of productive people as a reference. Whatever habit you decide on, keep it up for 66 days. This is the average amount of time it takes to form a new habit. From maximizing your downtime to growing from mistakes, habits make a big difference in your professional and personal life.

3. Learn how to give and receive feedback

The world is changing and evolving. The only way a business can keep up, is to adopt a culture where people feel open to giving and receiving feedback. In a world where one person’s opinion can make or break your reputation, immediate response to internal and external feedback is necessary. Feedback is how people and businesses learn what is working and what isn’t. Feedback is how companies and people know what needs to change. Follow David William’s tips to give constructive feedback while avoiding ugly confrontations.

4. Be a self-starter

One of my first managers, Paul, told me something 15 years ago that I still remember to this day. When I asked his approval to spend time researching a project idea, he said “Ravi, it’s better to beg for forgiveness than to ask for permission!” His point was that in a busy workplace, instead of looking for approval, be a self-starter and do the work. Even something simple lying laying out an idea and passing it along to your management shows initiative. If you are convinced of the value of what you are doing, recommend a course of action to your bosses instead of just asking for permission to look into something further. People place value on employees and managers that take action.

5. Prioritize your work for efficiency and impact

In a busy world, prioritization is an all-important skill. The Pareto Principle states that 80% of results are produced by 20% of efforts. How can you apply this to your own work to help you focus on the most important tasks? Take out your to-do list (or write down all the things you need to get done at work). Prioritize this list based on which are most important to your business. Circle the top 20% of tasks and committ to spending the majority of your time and effort on them. You can apply this method to simple tasks or a set of big projects you are working on.

6. Work with a coach

Almost every world class performer – in sports, the arts or business – works with a coach. A study by the International Coach Federation shows that “coaching generates learning and clarity for forward action with a commitment to measurable outcomes. The vast majority of companies (86%) say they at least made their investment back.” Eric Schmidt, the former Chairman and CEO of Google, goes a step further, saying that having a coach was amongt the best advice he ever got. If you don’t already have a coach, find someone to help coach you to help turn yourself into the greatest asset of your business.

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