These are tough economic times for businesses and for many families. It is nearly impossible for anyone to predict where the economy is going in the next year, let alone to try to plan for it. Not only is the economy a mess, the nature of the mess seems to change almost monthly.

Inflation is out of control one month then almost non-existent the next. Gas prices are going through the roof, creating havoc in energy markets. Then, suddenly, gas prices are falling. The dollar is weak, fueling U.S. exports. Then the dollar is strong. Then the dollar is weak again. And of course, overriding all of this is the meltdown on Wall Street and the collateral damage that is bringing Main Street to its knees. The road ahead, which will begin to pass through 2009 next week, could be the toughest we have faced as a nation in more than 70 years.

The only sure thing in all of the economic news is that it is bad. Bad for most businesses. Bad for most families. Bad for municipalities, states, school districts. Bad for almost everyone.

But…. (more…)

Job and workplace stress is growing in these times of economic crisis. The ability to manage stress in the workplace can make the difference between success or failure on the job. The better you are at managing your own stress, the more you’ll positively affect those around you.

We all know exercise is a key strategy for managing stress but it is easier said than done. Perhaps busting the following exercise myths may help give you the nudge you need to start exercising and beat stress.

MYTH: You have to exercise for at least half an hour at a time, 7 days a week, to really make it work.

FALSE! Several 10 minute bursts each day can be as effective as working out for 30 minutes. Some simple ideas for 10-minute activities include climbing the stairs instead of using the elevator, parking a few blocks from your office and walking to work, and doing ten minutes of jumping jacks during your favorite television show at night.

MYTH: No pain, no gain – if working out doesn’t hurt, it isn’t working.

FALSE! While a true aerobic workout does need to push you hard enough to raise your heartbeat, many great forms of exercise, like walking, swimming, or gentle stretching don’t require any pain. And even more strenuous exercise doesn’t have to hurt –in fact, if it does, it may indicate an injury or muscle strain. You don’t need to harm your body in order to get results.

MYTH: I need special clothing to exercise – meaning extra time for changing clothes and showering.

FALSE! If you exercise in short spurts, you won’t perspire heavily enough to have to change clothing. Even for heavier workouts, you don’t need special “gear”. Working out need not be a fashion show – an old pair of sweats and t-shirt will do.

MYTH: Exercise tires you out. I’m already exhausted, working out will just make it worse.

FALSE! Actually, the opposite is often true. Exercise releases endorphins that relax and energize your body and mind. This is not to say that running a marathon won’t leave you exhausted, but in moderation, physical activity makes you more alert.

MYTH: In order to exercise, I need to join a gym.

FALSE! Gyms are not for everyone. They can be intimidating, inconvenient, and expensive. There is no need to jump on the health club bandwagon – there are many activities you can do in the privacy of your own home, in the outdoors, or basically anywhere other than a gym. Simply signing up for the gym won’t help you if you never actually go there!

Source: helpguide.org