Eight ways to take stress in your stride

Stress itself isn't a bad thing. Like competition, stress keeps us on our toes. Some people thrive on it, though too much can be harmful. The trick is to manage it. Here are eight simple ways to reduce stress.

Are you addicted to work?

When we hear the word 'addict' we think of someone who uses drugs, drink or tobacco to excess - someone who is out of control. But there are other addictions, including workaholism! We highlight the danger signs and suggest some fixes.

What's holding you back from your first million?

Many people in business think of themselves as entrepreneurs. Yet entrepreneurial behaviour is usually associated with innovation, risk-taking and business growth, which most people find uncomfortable. Nor are they prepared to pay the price. Learn how to overcome obstacles to build a truly entrepreneurial business.

The warning signs of stress and how to cope

There can't be a much more stressful job than running your own. How to read the warning signs - and how to cope.

How to survive through toughest times

Sometimes life is really difficult and it is hard to keep things into perspective... until you meet John Nichol. His plane was shot down during the Gulf War. He was tortured and forced to read propaganda messages on the television. He tells how he coped and learned an important lesson - how to adapt and survive. His story gives hope to everyone facing tough times and he reveals how we can all find the strength to keep going.

Give yourself a perfect day

When the pressure is on, it's all too easy to forget why you started out in business. We look at how to make sure you really enjoy your work.

Why listening is good for business

Sometimes we're so busy trying to tell customers and staff what we think, that we never listen to what they have to say. Listening isn't about hearing so much as understanding. Tapping into this skill will give you an edge in business.

How to communicate more effectively

What if there were a magic formula to show clients all the benefits you offer? How would it be if you could bond with customers to gain future contracts? Or even to be as effective on the phone as in person? Discover how we might improve our profits by communicating better, including how to create empathy and boost rapport, and tapping into sensory language.

How to be assertive and get your own way

Do you feel you lack the assertiveness needed to handle a situation effectively, so end up giving in or settling for far less than you hoped for? Or do you sometimes find it difficult to put your ideas into words that give your prospects a good reason to do business with you? Do you start waffling because you can't think of a clear and concise way to make your point? Discover how to get what you want in business and in life without being aggressive.

The ten secrets of successful people in business

The commercial value of a great reputation is obvious. Every month I come across professionals who never need to promote themselves - their reputation goes before them. Their guarantee of future prosperity lies in a constant stream of potential new clients beating a path to their door. What have they done to make this happen? Find out the ten behaviour patterns common to all successful people in business.

Use your own 'magic' to transform your business

You're brilliant! Your genius is what inspired you to start your business and gave you the vision to succeed. Discover how to keep that enthusiasm and drive burning through thick and thin.

How to build your self-confidence

If you lack self-confidence, you're going to find it hard to get noticed by your potential clients. Here's how to build your self-esteem.

How to be more charismatic

Charisma is important. It's a measure of how good you are at communicating with others, and you need it to succeed. It's easier than you think to develop it.

Make your confidence shine!

In the absence of confidence, people become withdrawn, defensive, protective and scared. Potential customers don't get contacted, proposals don't get sent out, difficult matters get postponed and actions give way to excuses. Confidence matters. Here's how to improve it.

Crucial conversations: tools for talking when stakes are high

There are times when we need to discuss things with partners or employees, but fear holds us back. Discover how to tackle those crucial conversations.

What's holding you back?

Is something stopping you from doing what you really want with your business? Chances are, the only person holding you back is yourself.

Image: the tip of the iceberg

What people see of us is just the tip of the iceberg - yet that is often what we are judged on. We look at why appearances really do matter and how to harness the power of image to get what we want.

How to improve your memory

Have trouble remembering things? Forget names, phone numbers - even meetings? Don't despair; you can actually improve your memory by following a series of simple steps.

A time for personal renewal

It's probably been a long, hard twelve months. Maybe it's time to relax, recharge your batteries, and take a look at where you want to go in the next 12 months. Traditionally done at the end of the year, recharged can happen any time you like!

Take you mind to the gym!

Your brain, like your body, needs both relaxation and exercise. Discover how to keep it in top tip condition, boost concentration and achieve more.