11. Take the 10-15 minutes to 'unplug'. Every afternoon at 3:30pm (while at work), I unplug from everything. I shut down my computer monitors, turn my cell phone off, put my office phone on 'do not disturb' and close my office door. During this time; I pray and/or read a short passage from the Bible, reflect and close my eyes and go through a breathing practice of counting my breaths. (Google Search: dr weil breathing exercises). I set my watch for 15 minutes... I admit, I've gotten 'pretty relaxed', so the alarm is essential to stopping an unforeseen 'nap' ;)

When my alarm goes off, I'm relaxed and ready to finish the race! My mind is focused, I've rededicated myself to serving God and I feel refreshed.

10-15 minutes to unplug is a life saver. Does anyone else do something like this? No effort is required, besides a little will-power.

Great post Michael

ps. Stress? Balance on one leg for 30 seconds. Sure, you might look a bit silly... Funny thing about balancing, it engages and overpowers the part of your brain that is causing you to feel stress. Your fear of falling over is greater than that of the stress.

I work in a family business that was started 40 years ago by my father. We've had conflicts both personally and within our business. It can be tough working in a family business. Personal situations spill into business and vice versa. Over the last couple years, I've learned the power of forgiveness. We all screw up. Accounting for my screw-ups and accepting that God has forgiven me has allowed me to not only forgive myself but ask my father to forgive my screw ups. This opened a new chapter in our relationship. We both have forgiven each other for things in the past. A bridge has been built and we have modeled this for our family. Our love (with a little 'l') has always been there. Even without forgiveness... However, our Love (with a big 'L') is stronger that ever, drawing our family closer.

On a separate note, I have an audio version of the Seven Decisions and Andy's story about Col. Joshua Chamberlain is one of the best stories I've heard delivered to an audience. In fact, I blogged it last December. The video can be found on youtube.

Forgiveness is a main driver behind becoming a better version of yourself for your family and team.

Look up! That is where I'm headed :)

Leia, that is interesting. I have ADHD. However, I have learned to harness it and direct it toward creative (I'm 36). In any event, I had major sleep issue when I was younger. Do you happen to have any links to more info? I plan on googling the subject tonight.

On a side note, I remember reading somewhere (a couple years ago) about the majority of Americans being under-hydrated or dehydrated for most of their lives and the effects on health (mental/physical). There was mention of sleep disorders. I find it sad when folks drink 2-3 sodas per day, coffee, no water and complain about sleep and stress.

David, I'll check out "Making Life Work" thanks.
lance

Good info Michael. My trips are usually a day trip or a single overnight. I use the High Seirra ATQ Carry-on Computer Tote Bag. It's extremely light-weight and expands nicely, if need be. The bag is very well padded. I carry the MacBook Pro 17in and plenty of compartments for cords/wires etc. Another nice feature are the open side pockets where a 16oz drink bottle can fit. The main compartment unfolds like a file folder so, you don't have to put items on top of each other. There is plenty of room for a change of clothes as well.

ATQ is also easy to use when passing through airport security (computer removal and stash your keys/cell phone/belt in the side pockets while waiting in line at TSA). Rather than have several separate packets for my gear, I use the built in pockets/compartments in the bag.

I've been using this bag for over a year now. You can pick one up for around $55 bucks. http://www.luggageguru.com/product.asp?pid=3296&a...

Over and out,
Lance