Because it's a holiday week this essay is brief, in keeping with the theme.

A frequent topic with clients and former employees of mine is stress management, which inevitably leads to discussion of work/life balance. I have a golden rule in this department, which every single time I offer as a reminder to myself as much as a suggestion to the other.

Take care of yourself first.

As they say, remember to put your mask on first before assisting others. Our energy is limited and needs frequent replenishment. As important as that next task or deadline may be, pushing forward despite our human limitations is inefficient and self-defeating.

The successful people know universally develop techniques to recognize their limits and learn to self-recharge. Conversely, I see a consistent pattern in the die-hard "work until you drop" crowd: as the hours increase the efficiency decreases to the point of hurting their overall productivity.

The art lies in having the self-knowledge to recognize where the tipping point between productive and counter-productive effort sits. And with that, I'm wrapping up (pun intended) and signing off to keep myself oxygenated.

I'm well aware that the holidays can be a stressful time for many. In this holiday season I wish you all the wisdom to recognize your limits and the fortitude to take action to keep yourself thriving. Happy holidays!