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The most rewarding experiences that I have had have come from volunteering. Especially my time developing youth groups, being on boards for various charities and associations, and fundraising for my children’s sport programs. In fact, I would guestimate that about ¼ of my time is given to volunteering.

Over a quarter of Canadians aged 15 and over volunteered for a charitable or non-profit organization last year. And though we think of women volunteering more than men, men contributed more volunteer hours on average than women.

Volunteering is a way of connecting yourself to the larger society and connection is critical when it comes to dealing with the sources of stress that we face.

By far the most commonly cited barriers were those related to time.

Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency! So Here are today’s Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating National Volunteer Week:

If you are a volunteer, talk about your experiences to others. Positive role models are needed, especially by our younger generations.

If you are looking for volunteers for your organization, be clear about the expectations, make commitments short and ASK. Many have difficulty holding up their hand to volunteer, but would say yes if asked in person.

Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com

#mentalhealth #hr

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Have You Ever Had A Dog Bite You?

I was only two. In my mind, I vaguely remember being in our living room with my mom while she was crying and talking on the phone to the hospital. I remember being in the emergency room. And before all of this, I have a fleeting memory of being out at the barn and our dog. Somehow, our dog thought that I was going to steal his food, though I had been out there numerous times. On this particular occasion, he snapped at me and bit me, just missing my eye.

Even the calmest, most loving dog can get snappy when sat on, stepped on or when they feel fear for themselves or their family.

My experience could have left me scarred in many more ways than just the one that I carry on my face. Today, I am a dog lover. I don’t fear them, but I do have a very healthy respect for them.

Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency! Here are today’s Tips For Protecting Yourself And Celebrating Dog Bite Prevention Week:

The Canadian Safety Council estimates that in 70% of dog bite cases the victim knew the dog. Parents need to teach their children how to interact safely with Fido.

NEVER disturb a dog who is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.

NEVER pet a dog, even your own, without letting him see and sniff you first.

Dogs that haven’t been properly socialized, receive little attention or handling, or are left tied up for long periods of time frequently turn into biters. Be a responsible pet owner.

Properly train and socialize your dog, and teach it submissive behaviors like giving up food without growling.

Cynophobia is an irrational fear of dogs. If you find that your fear of dogs is excessive and you can’t easily avoid them, seek out the help of a professional counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist.

For more information on coping with mental health issues, sign up for one of my on-line courses at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab.

#mentalhealth #hr

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Do you walk on the wild side?

Or have you given in to the everyday routines of life?

Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency! Here are today’s Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Walk On Your Wild Side Day:

Take the Walk On Your Wild Side Challenge.

Use this day to plan something out of the ordinary, unusual or even extraordinary.

Better yet, don’t plan something, just do it.

It doesn’t have to be something dangerous, just a bit quirky or different from the everyday.

What about spraying your hair with your favourite colour?

Or dressing up like a famous rock star or movie character?

Or maybe it is to get up on stage and belt out your favourite tune at a karaoke bar? How about the 1972 song, Walk On The Wild Side, by Lou Reed?

Let yourself be free and unencumbered.

Share the moment with #wildside and encourage others to add more joy to their life too!

PS My most recent wild side display was going to a big-hair 80’s band concert…dressed in authentic garb of the day.

Looking for more tips to build your resiliency? Look for my book on Amazon called Stress Out. 52 Weeks To Letting More Life In

#mentalhealth #hr