This isn’t rocket science – it’s just a little piece from the heart I wanted to share. Or maybe I should credit my trusty “Keychain Yoda” – the McYoda version of Widsom, since he did come from a Happy Meal after all..

1. Phone instead of email.  For any email that you know will take you longer than 2 minutes to compose, use the phone instead.    A phone call gives you a chance to connect to a human voice, share a few laughs, and will generally give you a boost of energy.
2. Write a compliment. Think of a vendor or client who really helped you out, and thank them somehow.   This can be a LinkedIn recommendation, a Google Review, an email, a card, or a tweet.   That way you can go home feeling you spread something positive.
3. Quick Walk. Between major projects in your day, take a quick walk outside to clear your mental slate.   Invite someone along with you (if you like them well enough!).
4. Switch the music you listen to as you work.   Just having something new to listen to will boost your creative problem solving, and shake things up.
5. Get someone’s “backstory.” This is my favourite.   If you are lucky enough to chat or meet with someone today, whether a vendor, salesman, or colleague, ask them how they ended up in the business they’re in.   It’s a polite way of getting a snapshot of someone’s life story.  It also opens up a real chance at building a friendship, giving you inspiration, or solidifying a great working relationship.

What works for you?  Got any ideas for me?  I’d love to hear them!