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This is a helpful Blog series on the generic SMART Goal Setting approach. gfp (2012-02-18)

"There's a century of research establishing the undeniable fact that working more than 40 hours per week actually decreases productivity. This research clearly seems to proves the advice in this article and Sheryl Sandberg's family-oriented practise is wise. I suggest you stop if you also are requiring your staff to do it too! As a "recovering Type 'A' workaholic", I speak from experience because I couldn't work, at all, for over 5 years after the dis-stress on my body, mind, emotions, will, and spirit caused a life-threatening event in my life in 1995. gfp (2012-04-26)

The message from the research is clear: the benefits of teamwork are nowhere near as clear as the fashion would suggest. Worse, sometimes the arbitrary implementation of teams reduces organisational performance. And there's even more reasons to question the appropriateness and ubiquitous advice in favour of plus use of teams!

This Spanish article provides us with a very useful guide to better understand something we all experience: stress. I find it especially valuable that it not only identifies the different types, but also helps us recognize when stress can be beneficial and when it becomes problematic. What strikes me most is the concept of positive stress that motivates us and drives us to grow. We often think of stress as something completely negative, but this article reminds us that a certain level of stress can be our ally in facing challenges and achieving goals. The general strategies it proposes are practical and accessible: from relaxation techniques to the importance of setting boundaries. I find the emphasis on seeking professional support when stress begins to significantly affect our well-being to be fundamental. An essential read for anyone looking to better understand their relationship with stress and develop effective tools to manage it.