Deciding time

If you are deciding on something important, hold it off until midday, advise psychologists at Florida University.

Apparently, we are at out most rational at that time and can weigh the pros and cons of a situation in the most sensible way.

Spend wisely

Make a shopping list and stick to it. Studies show that they really cut down on expensive impulse buys. It can also help to have a snack before you shop. Those pricy biscuits won't look so tempting.

Pay with cash only so that you will know how fast you are spending your money. Keep all receipts and transaction records until you are sure you won't be needing a refund or until the monthly statements are correct.

Write down everything you spend. You will soon notice how your spending snowballs. It also helps you pinpoint where you can cut back for example you may be surprised to find that your dry cleaning bill is much higher than you thought!

Set aside a sum of money right after pay day. Have it direct debited the bank automatically transfer the cash for you very month. Or start stashing away your won cash at 5 per cent and then at 10 per cent of your salary on every pay day. Either way, you won't notice how much money you are stashing away until you check your account at the end of the year!

If you get a pay rise, consider investing it for future projects like your kids' education. After all, you have lived this long without it, perhaps you can live a few more years on your old salary?

Card connection

The next time someone hands you their business card, don't just slip it into your purse and forget about it. You could be missing out on an opportunity to network your way into a new career. So make sure:

• When you're given a card, write on the back where ad when you met the person. Note down how they might be useful to you in the future.

• Jot down any personal details or anecdotes. It can act as an ice breaker the next time you meet.

• If the person is a potential business contact or could help you with a future career move, note it down in your diary to ring them within the week and mention you enjoyed meeting them. Don't be pushy, just polite and direct.
  

The goodness of Procrastination

"Procrastinator!" is the mud ball we throw at people who put off doing what we want them to do when we want them to do it.

It may be time to put in a good word for procrastination. How many deeds would not be better left undone? The bureaucrat, for instance, who never procrastinates - who punctually grinds out the memos and fills out the forms , can become a minor menace to the world and to himself.

Delay , the blinking yellow light is about all that gets us through the literal and figurative intersections of daily life. Procrastination is an accommodation necessary in a crowded world.

Delay from going to war, Delay the criticism of each other is another good thing about procrastination.

So if, like that professional procrastinator Thoreau, you choose "to front only the essential facts of life." we say more power to you and never mind the neighbors at least until tomorrow.

Conversation plus point

Whether it's a casual conversation with your office mates, new acquaintances or during big-time meetings, you can always look and sound professional if you consider these helpful tips...

Always make eye contact and never look away when someone is talking
Occasionally nod to show you are listening
Never ever lose your temper or show that you're bored
If you hear something unbelievable, check the facts first. Don't accept it as the gospel truth.
Try not to give advice unless you're asked to do so
Don't interrupt while the other party is speaking.