Women in Business 2014

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Adaptability

A career that works for women

important in the workplace

Courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices estate in the Billings area is a relatively stable one.

Floberg Real Estate Goals, organization, and determination will still provide a relatively well-paying career for women.

The city of Billings has probably the best record The majority of REALTORS in the Billings area in Montana for overall stability in home values and are women. Young women have the advantage of a trend line that is overwhelmingly positive. The having grown up in the digital age. Communicatgraph below shows the average residential sale ing with the Millennials is no problem for them. It’s price in the Billings area over the last 14 years. no secret that technology reigns the future of many Note the only one notable exception to the upward careers. Real estate is certainly one of them.

Good training and the tools to capture and retrend occurred in 2008 – 2011, during the recession that was caused by the financial industry and the tain the internet customer are of great importance. overgenerous lending practices that had occurred Being able to solve problems, and to like doing so, in previous years. The bubble of activity and esca- is a great asset. The company one chooses is a big lation of home prices had to burst, and Billings was factor in success. A circle of experienced and supaffected to some degree even though the problems portive agents makes a big difference in starting a had originated elsewhere in states such as Califor- career. The ability to develop rapport and lasting nia, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. friendships guarantees a referral base that will lead Though it has its ups and downs, a career in real to a lasting career in real estate.

Metro Services Employee turnover, downsizing, an economy in flux, and many other factors contribute to the ever-changing face of business. While men and women might once have hoped to grow old with a company, today’s workers are more inclined to switch jobs several times before they retire.

Companies routinely evolve to serve their customers, a learning process that will include some trial and error. Companies should be willing to try new strategies as they adapt to ever-changing markets. Workers who are flexible and able to adapt to adjustments in the workplace are among the most desirable employees.

What defines adaptability varies depending on the profession, but taking the time to learn how to accommodate the needs of bosses and other workers can be a great way for men and women to ensure their long-term success.

business world and must go with the flow to maintain their good standing with employers.

Look for benefits

A willingness to be flexible can benefit employees just as much as it benefits employers.

Employees may find that a flexible schedule or the ability to telecommute presents new opportunities that can make life easier.

Keep lines of communication open

Many men and women like working for companies that are willing to try new things.

Keep lines of communication with supervisors open to ensure your ideas are heard, and encourage subordinates to offer their ideas at every turn.

Don’t equate flexibility with being a pushover

Flexibility should not go so far that an employee feels taken advantage of. As companies change, the process is best if it involves Professional environments are fluid, and give and take on the part of employees and employees who resist change may find their their employers. employers deem them expendable. Employees must recognize that change is part of the

Recognize the likelihood of change

Advertiser Index:

A Haus of Realty .......................................3 Advanced Employment Services .............3 Alberta Bair Theater................................3 Arrowhead Marketing .............................5 Beartooth Bank .........................................1 Bernina Sewing Center ............................7 Billings OB-GYN......................................4 Billings Plastic Surgery ...........................4

Davidson Home Furnishings & Design ..5 Hill Masonry .............................................1 M & M Properties ....................................4 Mattressland .............................................2 McNeese McNeese .....................................3 Moms 2-B/Precious Seconds/ Sunrise Art...........................................5 Picture Perfect Ultrasound......................4 Pierce Flooring..........................................2 Pita Mill .....................................................4

Eastern Radiological Associates (ERA) is professional partnership of board certified radiologists (doctors trained in imaging and image interpretation) who have been providing radiology professional services since 1970.

Dr. Kathleen Ryan, M.D.

Dr. Ryan is a Board Certified Radiologist with Eastern Radiological Associates located in Billings, MT. She attended college and medical school at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. She completed residency and a fellowship in CT/ Ultrasound at St. Paul Ramsy Medical Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. Dr. Ryan is a partner in Eastern Radiological Associates (ERA). Dr. Ryan is the medical director for the Yellowstone Breast Center which is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and certified by the FDA. The Yellowstone Breast Center is also accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence.

Linda Masin, CHC Linda is the practice manager and compliance officer for Eastern Radiological Associates. She attended Montana State University in Bozeman and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. She completed Medical Technology (clinical laboratory science) school at Multicare Medical Center in Tacoma, WA. She is certified in health care compliance by HCCA and is a member of the Radiology Business Management Association.

Stacy Stellflug, NP

Stacy is a nurse practitioner at the Yellowstone Vein Center.

She received her bachelors and masters from Montana State University in Bozeman. She is a board certified Nurse Practitioner, has worked as an NP for the past 10 years at St. Vincent Healthcare and has been a faculty member at MSUBozeman College of Nursing on the Billings Campus for the past 6 years. Stacy is currently working on her PhD in nursing at University of Colorado Denver. She works at the Yellowstone Vein Center caring for patients and assisting the radiologist with in-office procedures.

RBC Wealth Management .......................2 Rimview Dance Studio .............................4 Shiloh Medical Clinic ...............................1 Stewart Title ..............................................5 Travel Café ...............................................2 Yellowstone Bank......................................2 Travel Café ................................................3 Yellowstone Bank......................................6 Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic ............3 Yellowstone Vein Center ..........................6

Women in Business is a special advertising publication of The Billings Gazette.

Special Sections Coordinator Linsay Duty Access Women in Business online at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

NATUROPATHIC ONCOLOGY Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic (YNC) is proud to announce that we are commencing our ninth year of our joint residency with Frontier Cancer Center (FCC), in association with St. Vincent Health Care. Our progressive program was conceived by Dr. Margaret Beeson, in conjunction with Dr. Marty Lucas of FCC in 2005 and has expanded to include 2 residents working part time at FCC, while maintaining general practice at YNC. Cancer treatments have become increasingly sophisticated and require specific knowledge to prevent interference with treatment regimens while offering maximum protection.

Naturopathic physicians are the specialists in this arena and are continually on the cutting edge in keeping up to date on appropriate and effective interventions, as well experts in addressing the whole person for individuals being treated for cancer.

I am pleased to present our current naturopathic oncology residents Dr. LaDeana Jeane and Dr. Jennifer Krieger.

-Dr. Margaret Beeson

Laurie Neubauer, PA Laurie is a physician assistant at the Yellowstone Vein Center.

Laurie graduated from Montana State University in Bozeman with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working as an RN for 15 years, she attended the Physician’s Assistant Program in Grand Forks, ND. She worked as a physician assistant in primary care for several years. She works at the Yellowstone Vein Center caring for patients and assisting the radiologist with in-office procedures.

Cheryl Hall

Cheryl is a financial counselor at the Yellowstone Vein Center. Cheryl brings over 25 years of medical billing expertise to her work at the Yellowstone Vein Center.

Lynn Adkins Lynn is a financial counselor at the Yellowstone Vein Center. Lynn brings over 20 years experience in healthcare to her work at the Yellowstone Vein Center.

Dr. Jennifer Krieger

2900 12th Ave. N. Suite 4E www.yellowstonevein.com

(406) 237-VEIN (8346) Call us TODAY!

Dr. Margaret Beeson

call today to make an appointment

406-259-5096

Sales & Marketing Director Dave Worstell

Dr. LaDeana Jeane

visit our website for more information:

www.yncnaturally.com

Section Designer Kara Peterson

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Sunday, September 28, 2014

Women in Business

Helpful hints to land your first job Though the job market for newly minted college graduates has proven less than ideal in recent years, members of the class of 2014 entered a job market that was on the rebound. According to the “Job Outlook 2014” survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers anticipated hiring nearly 8 percent more 2014 graduates for their domestic operations than they hired from the class of 2013.

That’s good news for new grads, but members of the class of 2014 should still expect a competitive job market in which companies can afford to be patient as they attempt to find the best possible candidate for each opening. Oftentimes the best candidate, especially for entry-level positions, is the one who combines some experience with a willingness to learn and do whatever it takes to help a company succeed. Many candidates boast such experience and enthusiasm, but there are some additional steps new graduates can take to improve their chances of landing their first jobs out of college.

Gain some relevant experience

While college is the best time to gain some experience that’s relevant to your field, that does not mean you cannot still earn an internship now that you have donned your cap and gown and received your

diploma. Many businesses look to recent graduates to fill their internships, as recent grads have years of study under their belts and, because they are no longer enrolled in classes, more flexibility than current students. If the job market in your chosen field is tepid, start looking for internships. These can be a great way to start making some professional contacts, and many people find themselves ultimately working full-time for the company where they first landed an internship.

Join a professional organization

Other options to network and improve your chances of landing your first job can be attained by joining a professional organization. Many such organizations welcome new members, even those with relatively little or even no professional experience.

Your university may even sponsor such an organization and host regularly scheduled forums relevant to your industry. Such forums often feature lectures or talk sessions with already established professionals who can provide advice on landing a first job or internship or furnish grads with industry contacts Establish an online presence Another way for recent graduates to get noticed is who might offer similar help. Membership in such to establish a positive online presence. Something as organizations is often free or inexpensive, so take simple as creating a profile on the professional net- advantage of this opportunity if it presents itself. working site LinkedIn can help recent graduates get noticed by prospective employers. Even if you have Use the resources at your disposal little or no relevant professional experience, create Many college graduates are unaware that they a profile that includes your education history, interhave valuable resources at their disposal that can ests, accolades or awards you earned while in school greatly increase their chances of securing a job out and even a brief summary of your career goals. of college. The career services office at the univerAnother way to establish an online presence is to sity is an invaluable resource that is plugged into the begin a blog. The blog should not be used as a tool to business community in its town or city. Such an ofdiscuss your personal life, but rather to express your fice can connect you will fellow alumni, many of thoughts on topics relevant to the career you hope whom want to help their fellow graduates establish to pursue. Demonstrating an understanding or even their careers. A career services office also can help just a passion for the industry can be a great way to new graduates fine tune their resumes and cover letshow prospective employers that you are looking for ters so they have a greater chance of landing a job. a career and not just a job.

Parents also might be a great resource in your job hunt. Your parents may have a career’s worth of professional contacts who might be able to help you land a job. Don’t be hesitant to ask your parents for help.

Getting a first job out of college is rarely easy. But there are some strategies motivated grads can employ to greatly increase their chances of finding a job and starting their careers.

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Make sure your résumé doesn’t cost you a job Metro Services

One document for all responses

Over-embellishment

A résumé is not a static document. It needs to change dependDo not embellish your skills. Always be open and honest on Many a night’s sleep has been lost worrying about an upcoming ing on the job you’re applying to. Although there will be certain your résumé. You may be asked to prove you can perform certain job interview. Questions like “Will I make a good impression?” or information that can remain the same, update the skills and other tasks, and if you cannot back up what is included on a résumé, “Am I qualified for the job?” can make for a restless night’s sleep information based on each position. you will have wasted your time and the time the interviewer spent on the eve before a job interview. discussing his company’s opening with you.

Writing a resume is another aspect of the job hunt that can stoke One page is best your nerves. Men and women may pour over job timelines and Applicants were long told to keep their résumés concise, limit- Imperfections skill summaries for hours in an effort to ensure they have included ing the document to just one page. However, if your experience is A résumé is a reflection of you, so one with typographical erthe right mix of information to get noticed. extensive or one page cannot contain a long job history, don’t be rors or a poor layout is never acceptable. Ensure your résumé is as Though résumé writing has changed considerably over the afraid to submit a two-page resume. professional and error-free as possible. Have a friend or a proofyears, some conventional wisdom about resumes still prevails, reader look it over before distributing. and how closely potential applicants adhere to these rules goes a long way toward determining if they earn a chance at an inter- Failing to be selective You need not include your entire job history on a résumé, es- Paid positions view. pecially if certain past positions you have held are completely irInternships or volunteer work are perfectly acceptable to inrelevant to the position for which you are applying. Don’t be afraid clude on a résumé, particularly for younger applicants who may Me, myself and I of job gaps, either. Many of today’s recruiters understand that the not have a wealth of professional experience. Include a mix of While the resume should showcase your professional accomchanging economy can make it challenging to maintain steady plishments, it also should showcase how your skills relate to the information on the résumé that will reflect your versatility. employment. job you’re applying for. This way the company understands you have researched the position and are in tune with what they’re looking for in an applicant.

Juggling a career and new motherhood The role women play in society and within their households has changed dramatically over the last half-century. According to Pew Research Center analysis of the Decennial Census and American Community Surveys Integrated Public Use Microdata Sample files, in 1960 just 10.8 percent of married mothers were the primary earners in households that included children under the age of 18. That figure rose steadily over the next 50 years, reaching 40.4 percent by 2011. Though the steady rise in those percentages makes the 2011 figure less than surprising, the fact remains that today’s working mothers have more on their plate than ever before and are under more pressure to juggle those responsibilities than their predecessors.

Juggling a career and motherhood is difficult for any woman, but the transition to wearing two hats can prove an especially difficult adjustment for new mothers. The following are a handful of tips for new mothers about to embark on the challenging task of juggling a career and a growing family.

Carefully consider career decisions

Some new mothers respond to motherhood by making changes with regard to their careers. While adjustments will almost certainly need to be made, it’s important that women avoid knee-jerk reactions. Some women feel guilty about not spending enough time with their children and ultimately allow that guilt to govern their decisions about their careers. But women who don’t give ample consideration to such decisions may grow to regret them when they find

they miss their old jobs and the responsibilities and sense of purpose that comes with those jobs. When making career decisions as new motherhood is approaching or after it arrives, make a list of the pros and cons to each decision and the motives behind each decision you might make. The more thoughtfully you approach each decision, the happier you’re likely to be with that decision once it’s been made.

Avoid going overboard at the office

Working mothers are often driven to show their employers that new motherhood will not affect their on-the-job performance. In their haste to prove motherhood won’t prove a distraction, new mothers may take on more they can chew. Recognize that being a working mother does require an adjustment period, especially in the immediate weeks and months after maternity leave has ended and your body has yet to adjust to its new schedule. Accept help when it’s offered and recognize that good employers understand the adjustments you will need to make in the immediate aftermath of a pregnancy.

Look for ways to reduce your workload at home

Juggling a career and new motherhood won’t just have an impact at the office. Part of making a successful transition from working professional to working mother is recognizing that adjustments need to be made at home as well. Both new parents are in the same boat, but mothers are the ones who spend the first three months at home with their new child, and during those three months new mothers typically develop a certain rapport with their new babies that new fathers do not. Babies may prove more comfortable being fed

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or rocked to sleep by mom instead of dad. In such instances, look for ways to reduce your workload at home, whether that’s sharing cooking duties or other chores around the house that were once your responsibility alone.

L Looking for a marketing plan that brings p rresults? 21 years ago, Karlee Bentz started her K career in advertising c as a copywriter while a still in college. After s completing her BA in l i h i Communications, she worked in production, promotions, and in TV and radio sales. In 2001 she joined Arrowhead Marketing as a business partner. Ever since, Karlee has helped clients from large franchises to small boutiques advertise their products and services, drive sales, and generate revenue. She diligently finds the best media resources to customize solutions that work within each individual’s budget. Raised in the “X” generation, Karlee welcomes technological advances. She utilizes her energy and ability to respond quickly to the opportunities in today’s ever-changing marketing landscape, while still bringing two decades of experience to develop advertising strategies that bring results. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fresh marketing approach, contact Karlee Bentz at KarleeBentz@gmail.com or (406) 651-4409

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Dawn Ness

n, Pam Anderso and her sister ey In 1992 Dawn B and Precious Seconds. Th 2w the opened Moms ir own and sa babies of the shop in were raising consignment ’s ren ild ch 200 sq ft shop need for a w from a tiny re quickly gre ed maternity sto lov e ly Th us . gs vio Billin ality pre ere without the re filled with qu ph sto os ft sq atm 00 re 45 partment sto generations to the current s a cheery de have seen 3 fashions. It ha w. Most ys Ness.”We and children’s is is a great business” sa ed the kids gro tch wa d an Th to be with ships nd rs) frie the ed mo nd lop higher prices.” ve d gra the doors, de working so mother an ily. Not many come through d my staff (al ys olved the fam allowed me an time as her bo tivity that inv are ac sp importantly it an th wi ed lf ss another never mi found herse why not open our kids. We 2007- Dawn So r” y.” ve ilit dri xib es xi ss fle t tha time “ta again in cla parents have n’t need a full began painting make a mess chool, they did ssion so she , pa ate r cre he got into Highs to en ce be n had a had always Studio, a pla business? Art ays wanted a w Brad Anderso Lance r Brother in-La e. e Johnson. I alw given by Lanc t the space. He d Art Gallery on Montana Av jus of ew kn She dio an . Sunrise Studio and leave it. rfect for a Stu eded a studio , e that was pe ing art and I ne very satisfying az is am r ne nice cozy spac his ow for business want ed a Gallery 09. Being a it…yes, do I 20 of t Johnson need of ou y nt Ma wa ry opened itely. Just get what I and Art Galle to do….defin t into it. Do I it what you pu business ventures I’d like you get out of t other ye re the is more…yes… ys in a week. need more da

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Women in Business

Wardrobe tips for every woman Metro Services Celebrities and public figures make many things look easy, especially when it comes to fashion.

Deep pockets and stylists on the payroll make it easy for celebs to project a polished appearance.

But money alone does not buy style, and chances are the average woman has the wardrobe staples necessary to look her best. Such essentials need not cost a fortune to produce a seemingly endless array of outfits.

Take inventory of the basics

Women should go through their closets and find the wardrobe pieces that can be put to use in multiple combinations. Timeless styles can be used over and over, and some items work well as a base for a multitude of outfits. For example, a simple sleeveless dress in a neutral color can be worn alone, paired with a cardigan for a professional or casual look, or even made to look corporate with a blazer for a business meeting. A sheath in black, tan or navy can be worn repeatedly and matched to a bevy of other pieces. In addition to a simple dress, a pair of black pants, a knee-length skirt, a few tanks or camisoles, a pair of dark-colored jeans, and solid-colored cardigans can be mixed and matched in different ways. Women can make a running list of the staples they already own and then fill in the missing pieces on their next shopping trip.

Add some pieces that pop

Spice up the basics with some new items that feature hot colors of the season. Pastels, orange and neon colors are big for the spring and summer. Orange can also carry into autumn. A bold blazer will add appeal to an office combination.

A printed scarf paired with a neutral blouse and pants adds some color and whimsy without being too bold. Printed pants can be a fun choice for a night on the town. Those who prefer to play it safe may lean toward classic lines and colors, but don’t forget to add some punch with strapped shoes or flashy accessories.

Know the cuts and colors that work

Looking polished means finding the hues and styles that fit with a particular body type and skin coloring more so than simply following the latest

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Maintain your productivity when working from home

trends. A woman who understands her body type can rely on pieces that are designed to flatter. Not all colors work on every person. While greens and yellows may look good on one person, a woman with an olive skin tone may look washed out wearing these shades too close to her face. Similarly, fair- or dark-skinned women may fade into their clothing if the pieces are too similar to their skin tone. Women can peruse magazines to find models of similar proportions and coloring, then experiment with the styles and hues they see. Once a match is found, these can be the go-to looks that enable her to always look polished.

Make sure it fits

Clothing that does not fit properly will not look good no matter how fashionable or expensive it might be. Rather than fixating on the size printed on the tag, women should shop for clothing based on fit. This could mean bringing a few different sizes into the dressing room and figuring out which one fits best. Not all designers run true to size, and some fabrics will have more give than others. A good rule of thumb is to always fit the largest part of your body. The other measurements can be tailored accordingly. It is a safer bet to purchase a size bigger if one is between sizes and have the item altered rather than trying to squeeze into something that is too small.

Invest in good undergarments

Sometimes it isn’t the clothes that can make the woman, but the structure pieces she wears underneath. Fitting experts attest that nearly 80 percent of women are wearing the wrong size bra. Most women are slipping into bras that are too small.

Although bras range in size from 28AAA to 56FF, the majority of department stores stock a limited number of the most popular sizes. Therefore, women may squeeze into bras that are not sized correctly. A better idea is to go to a specialty lingerie shop to get properly sized. Not only will a well-fitting bra support the breasts better, but such a bra also transforms the way shirts and dresses look and fit. Before investing in an entirely new wardrobe, women should invest in new bras.

Looking good does not have to require spending a fortune or overhauling a wardrobe. Mix and match existing clothing with some new, well-fitting pieces to revitalize your look.

Metro Services Telecommuting has grown more and more common over the last decade. Thanks in large part to advancements in technology that make it easier than ever before to connect remotely with coworkers, telecommuting is now something more and more companies are embracing.

According to Global Workplace Analytics, a consulting and research firm that focus on emerging workplace strategies, the total telework growth from 2011 to 2012, the most recent year for which statistics are available, was 3.8 percent. But those figures don’t tell the entire story, as the rise of telecommuters increased considerably since 2006, when the number of teleworkers grew by 26 percent over the year prior.

Telecommuting can pay dividends for workers and businesses alike. Workers benefit from telecommuting in a variety of ways. Working parents find telecommuting drastically cuts back on or even eliminates childcare costs, saving them thousands of dollars per year. Working from home also saves workers’ vehicles from the everyday wear and tear of driving to and from work, potentially adding years to a vehicle’s life expectancy.

Businesses also benefit from allowing employees to work remotely. Small businesses may need less office space if many of their employees work from home, saving them substantial amounts of money in rent. In addition, businesses who allow workers to telecommute may not need to spend as much on computers and other tools for their employees, as many telecommuters use their own personal computers when working from home.

While telecommuting can benefit employee and employer, the success of such an arrangement depends largely on the employees who will be working from home. Men and women who work from home often find they have more freedom at home than they did when working in an office, and how they handle that freedom will go a long way toward determining how successful they are at telecommuting. The following are a handful of strategies telecommuters can employ to ensure their work-from-home experiment is a productive success.

Stick to a schedule

Workers who still commute to work adhere to a schedule, and so should telecommuters.

Sticking to a schedule will allow you to maintain the same level of productivity you aspired to when working in the office, and a schedule will ensure your personal life does not encroach on your professional life.

Let others know your schedule

Though you’re now working from home, your schedule likely has not changed. You may be able to sleep in a little later because you no longer have to commute, but your workday is likely still eight hours. Once you have established your schedule, let others in your household, whether it’s a spouse, your children or roommates, know when you will be working on a daily basis. This reduces the likelihood that your housemates will distract you or walk into your office while you’re on a video chat or conference call with colleagues or clients.

Ask for a work phone

Many companies who allow employees to telecommute will provide a phone for such workers. This phone is linked to the same network workers use in the office, and it’s a wholly separate line from your personal lines at home.

It’s important that telecommuters keep a separate phone solely for work so their personal and professional messages do not get mixed up, which can make it more difficult for men and women to do their jobs.

Use the technology at your disposal

One of the ways technology has made it easier to work from home is by providing a number of ways workers can stay in constant and instant contact with their coworkers. But such technology is only useful if telecommuters make it work for them. Video conferencing allows telecommuters to conduct “face-to-face” meetings with coworkers, while instant messaging is a valuable tool to stay in touch with coworkers who you work with directly. Use these programs to your advantage, and you’ll notice you’re not only more productive but also still able to maintain a personal connection with your coworkers.

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Women in Business

Sunday, September 28, 2014

How to simplify your Clearing the Clutter What to Hold, What to Shred transition to a new career This reaffirms your relationship and you never know when you might need a reference or support Today’s professionals change careers and jobs in the future. much more frequently than those of past generations. While a person may have once thought Educate yourself on office politics themselves lucky just to have a job and hold on to It’s helpful to know a company’s rules in adit as long as they could, workers today tend to be vance. This may be as simple as learning the more fickle and jump around until they find the dress code for employees and any other rules and perfect career fit. regulations of the office. Do employees dine out The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics for lunch, or do they eat primarily at their desks? says it is difficult to determine just how often a What is the tendency for coworkers to mingle person changes a career, noting the difficulty with outside of the office? Learning these policies or regard to defining the parameters of what consti- habits may help you find a company that’s the best tutes a career change. However, one study by the fit for you.

NLS that looked at young baby boomers found the average number of jobs held by people ages 18 Go with the flow to 46 was 11.3. Other studies examining AmeriYou may have your own ideas on how to imcan and British employment patterns discovered prove performance, but assimilate into the routine Americans tend to move around more, having 10.5 first before you start becoming more vocal. There jobs in a lifetime compared to Brits’ 6.9 jobs. is plenty of time to lend your advice and show the Although the job search was once considered a team how they can grow. one-time event, today looking for a job is a larger part of career development. Staying on top of the Bring a treat for your new job market and finding niches that offer the best coworkers opportunities for success is key. Transitioning Offer the first olive branch by bringing in a from one job to another is more commonplace and snack the office can enjoy or offer to take a few these tips can make the move easier and more suc- coworkers out for coffee. This can break the ice cessful. and facilitate new office friendships.

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Have a valid reason to change careers

Take a lot of notes

Boredom alone should not be the driving force behind a career change. If advancement opportunities seem nonexistent or if the job you’re in simply isn’t in tune with your interests, you may have a good reason to switch careers.

Be willing to learn a new skill

A lot of new information will come at you in your first weeks on the job. There will be procedures and technological details. Jot down notes along the way, and do not be afraid to ask questions for further clarification.

Get to know the IT team

Many IT teams are increasingly becoming the backbone of many companies, ensuring everyone is online and working at peak potential. Get to know the IT department so you will not feel sheepish about turning to them when your computer freezes or your files vanish.

It can take several weeks for new employees to successfully transition to a new career. But there Be a courteous networker Send handwritten notes to any and all people are several strategies men and women can employ who helped you find new job opportunities. to make that transition go as smoothly as possible.

If your file cabinets are overflowing with old statements and records, you are not alone.

Knowing what you should retain and what you can shred is a common question. While there will always be exceptions, there are some general guidelines to help you determine what should be retained and what can be destroyed.

In general, things tend to be redundant. Once you get year-end reports, it’s a great time to throw away your monthly statements. Compare the original monthly statements with the yearend records to make sure they are accurate.

You can get rid of bank deposit slips once you’ve reconciled your statement. You need to keep the statement if you are paying bills online—and especially if any of those bills are going go toward tax deductions. A lot of people now pay their bills online, and your bank statement is really the only record of those online transactions. This is also a good time to review your statements for errors—especially unusual fees. You can throw them out once you’ve reviewed them. But if your bank statements become part of your supporting documents on your taxes, keep them for at least three years.

ATM receipts are not that big a deal. You can toss ATM receipts after your bank statement arrives and you’ve made sure everything matches up.

It’s a good idea to keep your tax returns for at least seven years, but you can generally toss your supporting documents three years after you filed your taxes. You’re usually safe from being audited after that time, unless you forgot to report a big chunk of your income. If you have any self-employment income, keep the records for at least six years.

Keep records showing what you originally paid for mutual funds and stocks until you sell them and report the gain or loss on your taxes.

If you made a nondeductible contribution to an IRA, keep the records indefinitely to prove that you already paid tax on this money when the time comes to withdraw. Also, hold onto your year-end statements showing how much you received in dividends or capital-gains distributions, so you won’t end up paying taxes on them twice. You can toss your monthly statements if everything matches up with your year-end report.

Keep the quarterly statements from your 401(k) or other plans until you receive the annual summary; if everything matches up, then

toss the quarterlies. Keep the annual summaries until you retire or close the account.

Since most homeowners can now keep their home-sale profits tax-free, they don’t generally think to keep home improvement records anymore. But it’s still useful to hold onto the receipts, because you could end up paying a tax bill when you sell your home if you have lived in it for less than two years, if you end up renting out part of it, or if you end up with more than $250,000 in profit if single or $500,000 if married. All home improvements that add value to your home (not just regular repairs) can lower your tax bill. The information can also help document the work you’ve put into the house when you go to sell it. If you make big home improvements that add to the value to the house, you should keep them for as long you own the house.

Throw credit card receipts away if they have appeared on the credit card statement, after making sure they match your statement. But also, before throwing them away, think carefully if they are going to be included as a business expense.

Paycheck stubs should be kept until you receive your end-of-year tax statements. When you receive your annual W-2 form from your employer, make sure the information on your stubs matches. If it does, you can toss the stubs.

If it doesn’t, you should demand a corrected form, known as a W-2c.

You’ll want to hold savings bonds until they mature, but it’s best to convert them to electronic bonds at the U.S. Treasury. Otherwise, keep them in a safe-deposit box and have a list of serial numbers at home.

But, there are certain documents you should never throw away: birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, military discharge papers, loan discharge notices and Social Security cards, to name a few.

When clearing out your clutter and getting rid of documents, it is a good idea to invest in a shredder. Trash can be very valuable to thieves, especially papers that have credit card numbers and Social Security numbers on them.

This article is provided by Teresa Darnielle, CFP® AIF and Julia Murphy, AIF, Financial Advisors at RBC Wealth Management. The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions. RBC Wealth Management does not endorse this organization or publication.

Consult your investment professional for additional information and guidance.

RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC

Pixland

You may need to learn new skills to pursue a new career. If that’s the case, you may want to enroll in a continuing education course prior to jobhunting. Even if a job doesn’t work out on the first attempt, new skills always look good on a résumé.

Provided by RBC Wealth Management and Teresa Darnielle, CFP® AIF and Julia Murphy, AIF, Financial Advisors

Meet the women of Davidson Home Furnishings & Designs

Patricia Davidson, founder, opened the business in 1988 and now works as a consultant to her daughter and partner Tiff Davidson-Blades as well as Kara Gainan-Dahlberg who joined the team this year after 22 years of experience in her own family business. Davidson’s is a home furnishings showroom and interior design firm featuring a blend of items for every style. We strive to make each project unique and a true reflection of every client. Whether you are building or remodeling or simply need a fresh look in an existing home, Davidson’s will follow your project from concept to completion!

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Lynda Kaye McCleary is the popular owner of the Rim View Dance Studio at 3419 Central Avenue. After receiving her Bachelor of fine Arts in Theater and Dance, she opened her studio with a special interest in hip hop, jazz, tap, Celtic, acrosports, and pre-school dance classes, ages 3 and up. For over 40 years, she has guided her dancers through their formative and advanced stages of development. She also offers classes for those who like to dance just for fun as well as those who kick it up A notch for competition.

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H olzer s i r o D Bernina Sewing Center

Billings Pierce Flooring and Cabinets has several, very talented women working for them.

Not only can they help with picking flooring and cabinets, they are also competent in helping with paint choices and accessorizing. Our saleswomen stay current in housing and home trends. They are here to help with making your home a place you love to come home to.

The flooring side has three creative and well informed flooring specialists—Brenda Mora, Jody Flock and Kelly Erickson with about 22 years combined experience. On the cabinet side we have Louisa Vasquez, Emily Ludwick and Angie Mills, who have 44 years combined experience.

In January of 1983 Doris and her husband, Frank, purchased the Bernina Sewing Center which was then located in the Alpine Village. Since that time there have been many changes in the sewing industry, including the birth of sergers and computerized sewing/embroidery machines. They started out with only a few different Bernina models, a small amount of knit fabric, thread, and patterns. The store has grown from a small shop to a very progressive Bernina Dealership and an amazing quilt store. Doris has now become a Handi Quilter Longarm Sewing Machine Dealer, and a dealer for Horn Cabinets and Unique Sewing Furniture. With growth and expansion over the years, relocating became necessary. The present location on Rehberg Lane is the fourth location. Doris expanded the present location by adding a classroom three years ago.

There are many educational opportunities at the Bernina Sewing Center. Training is provided on any Bernina machine purchased, whether it is a serger, an entry level Bernina, or a state-of-the-art, top-of-the-line Bernina Sewing Machine with embroidery. There are many models from which to choose. Doris’s staff offers classes in quilting, garment making. machine embroidery, embroidery software, and much more. She is very proud of her competent, dedicated staff, and her service department is second to none.

Doris invites you to stop in and meet her staff, and see the latest in sewing innovation and technology.

Pierce Flooring and Cabinets has many selections to choose from. You can come with samples to work with or take home samples and think about them. We also offer free in home measurements.

Any and all of these saleswomen would be excellent in helping you to make selections that would make any of you love your new or existing home.

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Women in Business

5

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Networking tips for working professionals Metro Services Networking plays an integral role in professional growth. Men and women who can nurture relationships within their fields are more likely to be in tune with what’s going on in their professions, and a network of fellow professionals can help men and women advance their careers.

But networking often falls by the wayside for today’s busy professionals, many of whom simply cannot find the time in their hectic schedules to foster relationships with professional colleagues. But the benefits of networking are numerous, and it behooves men and women to make an effort to build and maintain strong professional networks.

Recognize the benefits of networking

Networking not only benefits individuals but also the companies those individuals own or work for. While many people view networking as a means to one day finding a new job, networking is much more than that. When you foster a professional relationship, the other person in that relationship will be quick to think of you when they need a given service or are asked for a referral. That can benefit business owners’ bottom lines, but even men and women who don’t own a business can benefit, as their bosses will no doubt recognize the role they played in bringing in new business.

Photodisc

Revisit your network from time to time

Make networking a priority

Once professionals recognize that networking is about more than just building a web of contacts who can help them find their next job, they can begin to prioritize networking so it can help them in their existing jobs. Make an effort to keep in touch with current and previous clients and any other contacts made over the years. Something as simple as an email to catch up or an inquiry to see if there’s anything fellow professionals need will help you stay on their minds, which can help you bring in new business or learn about new opportunities down the road. Maintaining and building a professional network does not always require a lot of work, as even seemingly small gestures can pay big dividends if men and women prioritize such efforts.

A network is only beneficial if it remains current. Keep track of the professionals in your network so you know when and where to reach them should you need to do so. A professional networking site such as LinkedIn is a great way to stay on top of what your network is up to, and such a site also is a valuable tool when you want to update your network with any new information about yourself. Revisit your network a few times each year, updating with any new information so you aren’t left scrambling for email addresses or phone numbers when the time comes to get back in touch with your contacts.

Avoid networking only when you need something

You can likely name a few of your fellow professionals who only seem to contact you when they want something. You don’t want to earn a similar reputation among your own contacts, so don’t forget to make periodic contact with your colleagues even when you don’t need anything. A simple email to catch up and to offer some unsolicited help if any is needed can be enough to prevent you from earning a reputation as a “me-first” contact and put you in a positive light that can benefit you throughout your career.

Networking can easily be seen in a negative light. But professionals who network the right way will find that their efforts pay dividends for themselves, their companies and even their professional colleagues.

Make the most of your entry-level job Maintain a good attitude

Many top level business executives, including some CEOs, began their careers in entry-level positions. Such positions may not fulfill a post-grad’s dream, but they are often great opportunities for freshly minted graduates to learn about a given industry.

Like many opportunities, entry-level jobs are often only as valuable as employees want them to be.

Those who approach entry-level opportunities with a good attitude and a strong desire to learn are the ones who are most likely to someday consider their experiences as entry-level employees as invaluable.

With that in mind, the following are a few ways entry-level workers can make the most of their opportunity.

Chances are your first few months as an entrylevel employee will be spent performing tedious tasks that may have little to do with your long-term career goals. Approaching such tasks with enthusiasm may be difficult, but do your best to maintain a positive attitude. Your coworkers and bosses will observe how you respond to your workload, and that response can dictate your future with the company.

In addition, those who are above you on the company food chain no doubt performed some menial entry-level work when they began their careers, and a poor attitude that suggests you are above such work will only harbor resentment among those who have already paid their dues.

how decisions are made. Such information can help A willingness to cooperate and work a few extra you as you look to advance your career and build hours when help is needed is a great way for entry- relationships within the company. level employees to get noticed. But while helping coworkers is great, make sure your own responsi- Develop your skills No one expects you to be fully satisfied with an bilities aren’t suffering. Once you have cleared your entry level position for your entire career, so don’t plate, you can then approach your boss and express be afraid to seek opportunities to further develop your willingness to help. Such gestures will be apyour skills.

Such opportunities may present thempreciated and will help you get noticed for all the selves within the company via an interesting project right reasons. or outside the company via a class at the local college. Take advantage of any chance to develop your Learn the lay of the land Companies vary with regard to culture at the of- skills, and don’t feel guilty about pursuing opportufice, so while a casual environment might have pre- nities that have little to do with your current position vailed at a past internship that does not necessarily so long as you’re still doing your job to the best of mean your new employer fosters the same environ- your abilities. A good company will be impressed by ment. When starting an entry-level job, pay attention your desire to learn and grow your skill set, so don’t to how the staff interacts with one another including hesitate to seek such opportunities.

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Starting your second act Metro Services

How to choose your next career

Assess your skillset

The days when professionals would spend their entire professional lives with a single firm are largely a thing of the past. In fact, many people not only switch companies multiple times before retirement, but some even switch professions before retiring.

As exciting as it can be to pursue a new career, men and women over 50 know that such a decision is not without risk. While younger professionals with few obligations can often handle bumps in the road, older professionals making a similar move often must consider the potential effects such a pursuit might have on their families, finances and futures, including their retirements. But as difficult as it may seem to pursue a second career after your fiftieth birthday, there are steps men and women over 50 can take when pursuing a new career to ensure their second act is as successful as the first.

Decide what you want

The desire to pursue a second career no doubt stems from more than just dissatisfaction with a current profession. Many people switch jobs or even careers because they find their current careers too demanding, leaving little time for family or hobbies that have nothing to do with work. If what you really want is more time at home or more time to pursue a particular hobby, then keep this in mind when looking for a second career, and make sure that career won’t demand too much of your time. For example, if your goal in finding a new career is to get more work-life balance, then starting your own business, which can require long hours at the outset and even after the business has established itself, might not be for you. But if what you want is a more challenging career and to be your own boss, then you will likely find the cost of achieving that goal, even if that cost is more demands on your time, is worth it.

Professionals over 50 have lots to offer, but it’s still important for such men and women to make an honest assessment of their skillset and find a career in which those skills are transferable. Some men and women might want to pursue a second career that will make little to no use of their skillset, and that’s perfectly alright. But extra schooling might be necessary in such situations, and going back to school oftentimes requires a considerable commitment of both time and money. For those who simply want to put their existing skills to use in a different field or environment, assess those skills and look for lines of work in which they figure to be especially valuable. If there are any particular aspects of your current job that you want to avoid in the future, consider that when assessing your skills and choosing a second career. Even if they don’t know it, established professionals over 50 have many transferable skills, and such skills can be a considerable asset when pursuing a second career, especially when those skills have been assessed and can be applied to a new profession.

Nowhere does it say that professionals can’t take a trial run at a second career while still fully engaged in their first career. In fact, testing the waters before you jump in is a good way to gauge your interest in a potential second career and how well your skillset applies to that field.

A trial run, which can be conducted by volunteering with a nonprofit organization or through a part-time job or simply offering your services to a company free of charge in exchange for a chance to learn how the business operates, can shed light on the inner workings of a particular industry, showing you how things work behind the curtain. Testing the waters may reaffirm your belief that a certain line of work is for you, or it might send you back to the drawing board. Either way, it’s valuable experience that may reassure you that whatever decision you ultimately make is the right one.

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Switching careers after 50 carries some risk, but it’s certainly a risk that many before you have been willing to take. If you know any people, be it a friend, family member or former or even current colleague, who has reinvented themselves professionally, then speak with these people and ask for any advice they might have. If you know you want out of your current career but aren’t quite sure of what you want to do next, those who have faced a similar fork in the road may be able to help you narrow down your options. The notion of changing careers is exciting, and you can expect your personal and professional confidantes to share your excitement and be willing to help you in any way they can.

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Women in Business

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Regaining your work-life balance Balancing work and family life is a major challenge for many professionals.

Many established professionals find it stressful to juggle the demands of successful careers with the obligations they have to their families, and regaining that balance once it has been lost only adds to that stress.

Part of the difficulty of balancing work and family life is that the challenge is ongoing. The threat of losing your work-life balance is never too far away, but there are steps men and women can take to regain that balance once it’s been lost.

Document your activities

No one operates at 100 percent efficiency all the time, but balancing obligations at work with those at home is especially difficult when time is routinely lost to trivial matters or tasks at work that can be delegated to others. These time-consuming tasks have a tendency to add up, but professionals rarely take note of the smaller tasks or distractions that cost them time. Start documenting your activities on a daily basis, jotting down how each hour of your day is spent, both at home and at work.

Do this for several weeks, after which time a pattern will likely develop, and you can see where you are wasting time and where you are being most efficient with your time. When you sit down to examine your notes, look for ways to free up time without sacrificing the quality of your work or the quality of time you spend with your family. Don’t be afraid to make changes.

Don’t go it alone

Teamwork is important at home and around the office and can help overburdened professionals regain their worklife balance. If you tend to go it alone in the office, reach out to your colleagues more often, seeking their help on projects and offering your help in return.

This can drastically cut back on the hours you spend in the office. But you also can work with your family to free up more time. Assign tasks around the house so you aren’t doing chores during the time you do have at home. Split cooking duties with your spouse or even the kids if they’re old enough and delegate other household tasks as well. Such tasks can be tackled while you’re at work so the family can spend more time together each night and on weekends.

Stop emulating Atlas

In Greek mythology, Atlas was condemned to standing at the edge of the Earth and holding the weight of Uranus on his shoulders. Many professionals can no doubt empathize with Atlas, even if taking such weight on their shoulders was self-inflicted. Regaining work-life balance may require taking some of that weight off of your shoulders by learning to respectfully decline extra projects around the office or in your personal life. You can still pitch in on special projects at work without spearheading them, much like you can still spend time with your kids at the ballpark even if you aren’t their coach.

Cutting back on your obligations is a great way to reduce stress and free up time to focus on the things that mean the most to you.

option, consider moving closer to your office so you aren’t spending so much time commuting to and from work each day. Even if you have seemingly exhausted all options, chances are strong

there is a solution to help you regain your work-life balance. But sometimes that balance requires a little creativity and some give-and-take with both your employer and your family.

Think outside the box

If you have examined your daily activities and commitments but can’t seem to find any ways to regain your work-life balance, start looking for unique ways to make the time you spend at work and the time you spend at home more proportionate. Consider telecommuting one or two days per week to free up time to spend with your family. If moving is an

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Women in Business

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7

How social media can affect your career Metro Services Social media has become an integral part of modern society. Millions of people around the world use social media to connect with one another. But this valuable tool also can be a detriment, particularly to men and women seeking employment.

What a person says or does on social media can come back to haunt them with regard to the impression they create with prospective employers. Questionable antics and comments may reflect negatively on a person without him or her even realizing it. According to a study by Reppler, a social media monitoring service, 91 percent of employers use social media channels such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn to screen prospective employees.

Many people are completely unaware how others view them through their social media profiles and usage, but social media profiles give away more information about a person’s character and personality than many people would ever imagine. Even seemingly innocent remarks and observations can be misconstrued. Use of profanity or offering commentary on controversial subjects may be a person’s right. However, such comments may not sit well with prospective employers.

Some may think the solution is not to have profiles on the popu-

lar social media sites. But avoiding social media entirely can send the wrong message to prospective employers. It may suggest that you are not a person who is current with the latest trends in technology and may give employers the impression that you are not adept at keeping up with the changing times.

The key is finding the right balance with social media. The following are a few tips to ensure your social media usage does not do more harm than good.

Know that security features on social media applications change frequently

It’s important to know just how private your information may be. For example, if you are tagged in another person’s photo, people outside of your friends’ list may be able to see that image. You have to police your sites and lock down the information as you see fit, only posting what is appropriate for the general public.

Do not complain about a job or boss publicly

Do not post or tweet private information

Even if your boss is not on your list of friends, he or she may still If you would not tell intimate secrets to another person, especially learn about your comments through gossip. While verbal complaints an employer, do not convey these details to your group of “friends.” with others may not be accurately tracked back to you, text is hard evidence to discredit.

Recognize that it’s not always your comments that can affect perceptions of you

Use social media as a networking tool

The friends you choose to accept and socialize with via social meJoin industry-based groups and organizations so that you can share dia can impact how others view you. If friends are prone to vulgarity your ideas. Further expanding your reach through blogs and websites and off-color commentary, employers may surmise that this type of can also help your job hunt. behavior is acceptable to you. Screen friends and block those who do Social media is here to stay, making many details of people’s lives not meet your standards. more public, so exercise caution with social media so your career is not negatively affected.

w o m e n

health care 

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Naturopathic Medicine Provided by Dr Margaret Beeson, ND Many of you have heard of Hippocrates. He is given credit for being the father of medicine and was a physician/scientist in 460 B.C. In his words ‘Let food by thy medicine and medicine be thy food’.

He also spoke of the ‘natural healing power of the body and ‘the effect of thoughts and feelings on health. All physicians take the Hippocratic Oath as our pledge to service, and naturopathic physicians (ND) continue this philosophy in their education and practice. NDs attend four-year post graduate m edical schools of which there are currently five in the U.S., one in Puerto Rico and three in Canada.

We are currently licensed in 18 of the United States with seven more states working towards licensure, which requires graduation from an accredited naturopathic medical school and national licensing boards. Many Integrative Medicine programs in the country are patterned after our rigorous medical school curriculum.

Naturopathic medicine combines traditional therapies with current advances in modern medicine and is appropriate for a range of health conditions affecting people of all ages. Licensed NDs fol-

an ancient paradigm come of age

low a set of principles that help us bring our shared vision to our patients: The healing power of nature It is the naturopathic physician’s role to support, facilitate and augment the inherent self-organizing and healing process of living systems which maintains and restores health.

Identify and treat the causes Symptoms can be expressions of the body’s attempt to defend itself, to adapt and recover, to heal itself First do no harm Naturopathic physicians respect and work with the healing power of nature in diagnosis and treatment.

Doctor as teacher The original meaning of the word “doctor” is “teacher.” A principal objective of naturopathic medicine is to educate the patient and emphasize self-responsibility for health.

Treat the whole person Health and disease result from a complex system of physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, social and other factors. Naturopathic medicine recognizes the harmonious functioning of all aspects of the individual as being essential.

Prevention Naturopathic medical colleges emphasize the study of health as well as disease. Naturopathic physicians assess risk factors, heredity and susceptibility to disease, and make appropriate interventions to help reverse and prevent patient illness.

Naturopathic practice includes utilization of all methods of clinical and laboratory diagnostic testing; nutritional medicine, therapeutic fasting; medicines of mineral, animal and botanical origin; homeopathy; acupuncture; Chinese medicine; counseling; minor surgery and naturopathic obstetrics; naturopathic physical medicine including naturopathic manipulative therapies; hydrotherapy; and therapeutic exercise.

While most NDs are primary-care physicians, many specialize in specific areas such as women’s care or physical medicine. The practice of acupuncture, Chinese medicine and naturopathic obstetrics requires additional education and licensing. Homeopathy is used by practitioners with varying expertise and by many NDs. Naturopathic medicine is not “alternative” medicine but truly integrative medicine, providing a comprehensive approach to the best of traditional medicine.

Metro Services Regular exercise can benefit the body in many ways, helping men and women maintain healthier weights and lower their risks for developing potentially deadly diseases. Though many people are quick to associate exercise with its physical benefits, those hours spent on the treadmill also can boost brain power.

According to Dr. Barry Gordon, professor of neurology and cognitive science at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions and coauthor of “Intelligent Memory: Improve the Memory That Makes You Smarter,” exercise has a direct impact on the brain. That’s because exercise works directly on brain tissue, improving the connections between nerve cells, creating new synapses, growing new neurons and blood vessels, and improving cell energy efficiency. So while many people may begin an exercise regimen with a goal of trimming their waistlines or toning their bodies, they might be happy to know that those physical benefits are accompanied by several cognitive benefits as well.

As the American Psychological Association acknowledges, the connection between exercise and mental health is hard to ignore, and the APA notes that the following are just a few of the mental benefits men and women might reap from regular exercise.

Improved mood

Many people feel great after exercising, especially if that exercise comes at the end of a particularly stressful day. However, those extra laps on the track or those hours spent on the treadmill don’t just pay short-term dividends. In a controlled trial overseen by Duke University researcher and clinical psychologist James Blumenthal, sedentary adults with major depressive disorder were assigned into one of four groups: supervised exercise, home-based exercise, antidepressant therapy, or a placebo pill. Those in the exercise and antidepressant groups had higher rates of remission than those in the placebo group, and Blumenthal concluded that exercise was generally comparable to antidepressants for men and women with major depressive disorder. In addition, in following up with patients a year later, Blumenthal found that those who continued to exercise had lower depression scores than those participants who were less active.

Blumenthal’s study was not the only one to conclude that exercise can have a positive impact on mood. In a review of 11 studies that examined the effects of exercise on mental health, Boston University professor of psychology Michael Otto and his colleagues found that exercise could be a powerful tool when treating clinical depression, and even recommended clinicians include exercise as part of their treatment plans for depressed patients.

Antidote to anxiety

Some researchers, Otto included, have begun to examine the effects of exercise on treating and possibly preventing anxiety. The body’s nervous system responds quickly when people feel frightened or threatened, often causing the body’s heart rate to increase and sweating and dizziness to occur. Those people who are especially sensitive to anxiety respond

to these feelings with fear, and that makes them more likely to develop panic disorders. But Otto and fellow researcher Jasper Smits of the Anxiety Research and Treatment Program at Southern Methodist University studied the effects that regular workouts might have on people prone to anxiety. Since exercise produces many of the same physical reactions, such as sweating and an elevated heart rate, the body produces when responding to fear or threats, Otto and Smits wanted to determine if exercise might help people prone to anxiety become less likely to panic when experiencing fear or threats. In studying 60 participants with heightened sensitivity to anxiety, Otto and Smits found that the subjects who participated in a two-week exercise program exhibited marked improvements in anxiety sensitivity compared to those participants who did not take part in the exercise program. Otto and Smith concluded that this improvement was a result of the exercise group participants learning to associate the symptoms common to both fear and exercise, such as sweating and an elevated heart rate, with something positive (exercise) instead of something negative (anxiety).

Regular exercise benefits the human body in numerous ways, not the least of which is its impact on the brain. More information on the link between exercise and improved mental health is available at www.apa.org

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Exercise benefits the brain, too

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8

Women in Health Care

Sunday, September 29, 2013

By Julie Reil, MD In laser and aesthetic medicine there is a high demand for safe and effective non-invasive solutions for aging. As a physician in this specialty, the primary goal is to help men and women look better and younger…but still look natural.

Ulthera® is the latest non-invasive treatment option for skin laxity. Voted #1 procedure in America, Ulthera® uses focused ultrasound to tone the muscles and deep connective tissue of the face, neck and chest resulting in a non-invasive gentle face and neck ‘lift’. With Ulthera® your natural face contours are preserved and there is no recovery or downtime after treatment.

Ultherapy is a non-surgical procedure that stimulates the body’s own natural repair process to lift the skin over time. The use of FDA-cleared ultrasound technology enables physicians, for the first time, to see and then treat the deepest support layers of the skin – typically addressed in cosmetic surgery – without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin.

Ultherapy represents a whole new category within aesthetic medicine. It is an ideal cosmetic procedure for those looking for natural yet noticeable results. This is the first non-surgical procedure to restore tone to the deeper muscles of the face, neck and chest. Ulthera has proven results with turkey neck, lower face ‘jowls’, the

brow, sagging eyelids, crow’s feet, and the upper chest/ décolleté.

The treatment typically takes around 60 to 90 minutes.

Afterward, patients are able to return to normal activities right away, without the need to take any special measures.

With just one Ultherapy treatment, the lifting process is initiated, but the effect will build gradually over the course of two to three months, as new, stronger collagen and elastin are created. Further improvements can even appear up to six months following a procedure as this collagen-building process continues.

While the results do not duplicate those of surgery, Ultherapy’s gradual improvements make it a compelling option for people who have mild to moderate skin laxity, those who want to “stay ahead of the game” as well as those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery.

Gradual results are often desired by patients over the immediately noticeable “nipped and tucked” look of a surgical face lift.

Advanced treatment protocols using Ulthera to correct facial asymmetry after surgery or trauma have made this latest technology a break-through for physicians. Patients who have already had a facelift are getting “re-toned” with Ulthera, instead of having a repeat facelift.

Another exciting future application for Ulthera is treatment of excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis.

Before Ulthera®

After Ulthera®

Before Ulthera®

After Ulthera®

Which doctor to see and when Metro Services

lesterol levels and for any vitamin deficiencies. Heart rate, blood sion or changes in mood or behavior. Both a family doctor or a pressure, weight, and height are other screenings that can be han- gynecologist may refer a patient to a mental health specialist if the Women who split their health management among different dled at either office. situation seems to warrant more action. doctors may not know which doctor to turn to when their health comes into question. They may ask themselves, “Is this issue best Bacterial and yeast infections or urinary tract Nutrition and weight loss Many patients see a family doctor to seek advice on adopting a addressed by a family doctor or a gynecologist?” Answers to such infections A general practitioner or gynecologist can address these infec- healthy diet. Some medical offices have a nutritionist on staff who questions depend on personal preferences and the type of condition tions. However, some women feel more comfortable discussing can offer food counseling and exercise advise. you’re looking to treat.

Family doctors or general practitioners may be qualified to pro- genital issues with their gynecologists. A gynecologist may be vide many of the screenings and services for which a woman may more experienced at identifying problems and ordering appropri- Infertility It is best to visit a gynecologist or obstetrician to talk about any visit a gynecologist or women’s health practice. Such doctors can ate follow-up exams. A family doctor may not require an examinainfertility issues. Such doctors have more intimate knowledge of perform routine pelvic examinations, oversee screenings for cervi- tion unless you request it and may treat broad symptoms. the female reproductive system and could be more learned regardcal cancer and conduct breast exams to check for lumps and other ing the latest therapies and studies pertaining to fertility. abnormalities, just like a woman’s specialty doctor may run tests to Colds and coughs In theory, a gynecologist may be able to diagnose and treat comcalculate body mass index or check for cholesterol levels.

A woman who feels more comfortable with one specific doctor mon health ailments. But the majority of a gynecologist’s work Cancer screening PAP tests and breast exams can be performed at either doctor’s may see him or her for a variety of health concerns, provided that concerns the female reproductive system, so common colds and doctor offers certain services. However, there are instances when coughs are best left to general practitioners who diagnose respira- office, although patients may feel more comfortable if a gynecologist performs these screenings. certain healthcare questions are best answered by specialists. The tory and bronchial conditions daily.

It is important to note that not all gynecologists are obstetrifollowing information can help women determine which doctor to Mood disorders cians. Some handle women’s reproductive issues but do not deliver see when certain situations arise.

If changes in mood seem to stem from hormones or the result children. Patients who prefer a doctor knowledgeable about reproAnnual physicals of a pregnancy, a gynecologist or obstetrician may have treatment ductive health and won’t be busy handling child deliveries should Gynecologists and family doctors can conduct physical exami- options available that can alleviate specific triggers. Many women select a gynecologist. nations. Both can order blood lab tests and urinalysis to check cho- initially turn to a family doctor if they are experiencing depres-

Relaxation techniques to calm your nerves Since 2007, the American Psychological Association has commissioned an annual nationwide survey to examine the state of stress across the United States and understand its impact. The 2013 survey found that people continue to experience what they feel are unhealthy stress levels, with 42 percent of adult respondents reporting that their stress levels have increased over the past five years. In addition, 44 percent of survey respondents feel they aren’t doing enough to manage their stress, painting a potentially troubling future for people who cannot find better and healthier ways to manage their stress.

The picture is none the rosier in Canada, where data from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey revealed that nearly 23 percent of Canadians aged 15 and older reported that most days were “quite a bit or extremely stressful.” While those figures marked a slight improvement from the previous year’s survey, it’s apparent that stress is still a considerable concern for people throughout both the United States and Canada.

Though many people unfortunately regard stress as an inevitable side effect of adulthood, it’s important that men, women and even children avoid characterizing stress as simply a byproduct of a difficult and/or successful life and career.

Even momentary stress, often referred to as “acute stress,” like the kind that appears when stuck in a traffic jam, can have a potentially devastating impact on overall health. According to the American Institute of Stress, acute stress causes an increase in heart rate and stronger contractions of the heart muscle, and some medical professionals have suggested there is a link between repeated episodes of acute stress and heart attack.

Regular use of relaxation techniques to reduce stress can help to counteract the effects of longterm stress, which the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes can

contribute to depression, digestive disorders, headaches, high blood pressure, and insomnia. While it’s always best for anyone, and especially those people with heart disease, epilepsy, certain psychiatric conditions or a history of abuse or trauma, to consult their health care provider before attempting to address their stress on their own, the following are two popular relaxation techniques that may help relieve stress in a healthy way.

Meditation

There are many types of meditation, but in general people who meditate employ certain techniques when meditating. These techniques may include maintaining a specific posture or finding a quiet, distraction-free location to meditate.

Many practitioners of meditation choose to recite a positive mantra that they repeat throughout their session. While many people question the effectiveness of meditation, research has suggested that routine meditation sessions can alter the brain’s neural pathways and make a person more capable of combatting stress.

Yoga

Yoga has grown increasingly popular in recent years, and much of that can be traced to the multitude of health benefits that have been linked to this typically low-impact practice of the mind and body. The NCCAM notes that studies have suggested yoga is effective at lowering heart rate and blood pressure and can even relieve anxiety and depression. Those are beneficial side effects for sufferers of stress, which over time can contribute to high blood pressure and arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat) and even cause people to worry too much about minor things or suspect bad things are about to happen.

More information about stress and coping techniques is available at www.apa.org.

Creatas

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All photos courtesy of Shiloh Medical Clinic

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