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By Real Simple Magazine Last updated: Fri Nov 20, 2009 7:52am PST
  • Holiday Tipping Guide

    By Real Simple Magazine, on Thu Nov 19, 2009 11:03am PST

    James Baigrie The holidays herald the annual quandry--who should you tip and how much? And when is a gift more appropriate? Use our practical guide to take the guesswork out of holiday tipping. Give a Tip to Your...… Read More »

  • 3 Rules for Working From Home

    By Real Simple Magazine, on Wed Nov 18, 2009 8:39am PST

    David Prince

    David Prince

    by Amanda Armstrong

    1. Figure Out if It’s Right for You

    “Many of us would opt to work from home to save on child-care and commuting expenses, but it isn’t for everyone,” says Tory Johnson, author of Fired to Hired. If you thrive on the camaraderie of watercooler chitchat or are tempted to rush off to a sale at the mall without a watchful eye to tether you down, you probably aren’t the best candidate.

    If you do think it’s for you and you currently work in an office, find out if there is any established protocol, like having a certain title to warrant telecommuting. Then put your request to your boss in writing; address your communication strategy and recommend a trial period for the arrangement. Read More »

  • 7 Days to Less Stress

    By Real Simple Magazine, on Tue Nov 17, 2009 1:44pm PST

    Virgil Bastos

    Virgil Bastos

    by Stacey Colino

    Monday
    Day 1: See the big picture. When obstacles pop up, ask yourself how stressful the situation really is: Will this matter in three months? Three years? For issues with long-term repercussions, write down exactly what you think the problem is or how the situation needs to change. Brainstorm about what you can do to move toward a better outcome, itemize the steps that must be taken, then create a concrete plan of action.

    Tuesday

    Day 2: Survey your support system. Make a list of people you could turn to for advice and hands-on help in a pinch. You’ll probably realize you have more people to rely on for emotional, practical, or financial support than you thought you did. Knowing that they’re there can mitigate the effects of stress and make you feel more resilient. Read More »

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