1. Become a problem free zone. Yes, problems happen in life, and there are ways to proactively limit your exposure to those problems. You can limit your exposure by creating strong boundaries, developing reserves, and creating systems that will prevent future problems. What are some systems that you can develop right now that will prevent you from having problems in future?

2. Create enriching free time. So often when we do have free time we spend it on some mind numbing activity such as TV. Devote some of your free time each week doing something that really enriches your life. Do something that makes you feel fantastic and blissed out. The rest of your week will get a big boost and you will find that you are effortlessly getting things accomplished.

3. Be present. When you have committed to spend time, are you present? Or are you thinking about other things that you have to do? Often when we are at work we are thinking about things we have to do at home and when we are home we are thinking about things we have to do at work. As a result, we never focus on what we are currently doing. This drains your energy because when you are focused on feeling guilty you don't produce results you really want which leads to problems. Focus on what you are currently doing and concentrate on putting in a 100% effort and you will see strong results with fewer mistakes.

4. Set intentions for day. Setting intentions for day is much different than having a to do list. Setting intentions for day involves clearly articulating what you want from that day. Your intentions for day could be anywhere from cleaning out your desk to looking for and seeking out abundance from day. The key is focus, so do not set more than three intentions for day and center your activities around those intentions. This is much lighter than a to-do list, which tends to drain your energy and can keep you from feeling accomplished.

By Ruth Anderson

Coaching is a unique and relatively new profession that is distinct from both traditional consulting services and psychological counseling. Understanding differences among three will help you to select best person for your situation.

Consultants Traditional consultants are typically hired to solve a specific, somewhat narrowly defined problem. To do so, they bring with them a predefined set of tools and ideas that have worked well for other people in similar situations.

A consultant's work may end with a set of recommendations, or may continue as long as needed to implement those recommendations. A consultant should be able to provide you with up-to-date information on resources and tools that apply to your specific problem.

Counselors

Counselors are licensed therapists who are specially trained to help clients resolve emotional issues that have their roots in past but are affecting person's ability to function in present. A licensed therapist is also only professional who is qualified to diagnose and treat mental-health conditions.

If you feel depressed or unable to take actions to improve your present and future, you should contact a counselor or therapist. Neither coaching nor consulting should be used to replace or bypass services of licensed psychological counselors.

Coaches