Say hello to the 21st Century. We have already gone through some pretty tough changes. Some of them have left us breathless -- they seemed to happen so fast. However, the changes that have occurred so far are only the beginning, the tip of the iceberg, so to speak. Many more changes, some of them startling and unbelievable are ahead of us. Many of them will change the way you conduct your business. What to do? Make these 12 Tips your guidelines for adjusting well. They are the ‘basics’ for learning to live comfortably with continuous change and to THRIVE (not just survive) in a world that is saying, “Adapt successfully -- and gracefully --or end up like the Dinosaurs -- extinct.”.

Tip #1 Seek Solutions ASAP
Staying in business (and continuing to reap profits) will depend more and more on speedy sensible solutions not quick fixes. Putting band aides on conflicts is only a temporary measure. Instead work on identifying the “real” problem and you will solve the “right” problem. Many of us react with fear and anxiety when confronted with a challenge. However, it is often our reaction that is the problem.

Tip #2 Cultivate Productive Relationships
Relationships are the core of what keeps us human (and successful). Without relationships we would become alienated and perhaps lose touch with reality. There is one simple fact you need to know to develop strong, loyal relationships. When we feel secure we act kind and cooperative and when we feel Insecure we act upset, angry and uncooperative. In addition, two or more heads of collaborative relationships solve problems faster than going it alone. You can have that type of relationship environment when you communicate effectively with “Fact” Finding not “Fault” Finding

Tip #3 Like And Accept Your Self
We are hardest on ourselves, but we need not be. Actually when you like yourself and embrace who you are you will thrive. Loving ourselves is the best medicine our heart needs to be well.

Tip #4 Create A Powerful Presence Inside & Out
Your inside is always reflected on the outside. Take time to nurture and nourish your self-esteem and worth. As the good fairy said to Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, “Believe in yourself”.

Tip #5 Be Genuinely Enthusiastic About Your Work
In one way or another if you are working you have to serve other people. Why not do it with joy. It you can’t, perhaps you are in the wrong job, or in the wrong profession. Enthusiasm is lov-ing what you do. Other people can see it on your face, in your eyes and exuding from your entire being.

Tip #6 Take Care Of Your Self, Then Others Can Care About You
We were told that to consider ourselves first is selfish. We grow up not learning to take care of ourselves Yet if we need care how can we truly and sincerely help others. The perfect Customer Service begins with your own “internal” customer, you. Þ

Tip #7 Practice “One Minute” Stress Busters: Breathing, Meditation, Visualization
Three of the best stress reducers! Breathing diaphragmatically increases oxygen intake and nourishes the brain and body. Meditation calms the body by putting it into an altered state. Blood pressure is lowered, heart rate is even lowered and you reach a state of relaxation where your immune system can be replenished. Visualization is the art of seeing in your mind peaceful scenes in nature. It has a tremendous impact on the body and the nervous system. Do these three regularly and you will see the difference in how you think, relate to people and function..

Tip #8 Don’t Harbor Resentment. . .Get Rid Of It Before It Gets Rid Of You
Why is resentment such a dangerous emotion? It is the type of emotion which there is not physical outlet. You can’t get rid of it by exercising. You can’t eliminate it by talking about your gripe. Your have to something much harder...you have to forgive and let go. Resentment is a “Victim” emotion. It is when you think someone is doing something to you. Well, maybe they are, but it is affecting you--with body dis - ease more than it is affecting the person who has generated it. They may be the cause but you are the effect.

Tip #9 Listen To Your Inner Messages. . .Intuition. . .Gut Feeling
The only real solutions come from inside of you. All else is other people’s advice coming from their experiences, not yours. When you learn to trust yourself, you will be much happier..

Tip #10 Smile, Stand Tall, Speak Well
Perhaps this should be Tip #1 because smiling (and raising your eyebrows at the same time) is a universal symbol for hello, recognition and liking. This is the utmost in CARING FOR YOUR CLIENT!

Tip #11 Believe In Continuous Education, Continuous Improvement, Continuous Reinforcement
Why? Without a value system and belief in a commitment and dedication to your career, you will be left far behind and most likely, not even in the running.

Tip #12 Balance High Tech And High Touch
Technology can only go so far before the need for human contact takes over. Human touch--whether physical, such as shampooing, cutting, massaging, filing, or facialing or emotional, such as showing interest in what the client needs will always surpass the technology.

Arlene Alpert, MS, LMHC, President/CEO of Jupiter Consulting & Training Institute a Business Relationships & Communication Specialist, Consultant, Educator and Author with over 23 years of experience, education and expertise. Arlene offers individual consulting/counseling/coaching by telephone, plus workshops and retreats. In addition Arlene is a CE provider in FL and a NCTMB provider. Arlene has been on radio and TV and has written numerous articles for the salon/spa industry. Arlene’s newest books are, “Traveling Beyond Life’s Roadblocks: Creating A Life Of Choice ” and “Moving Without Madness: A Guide To Handling The Stresses And Emotions Of Moving” are available for purchase. Arlene also has tapes and manuals for the industry. For further information and a complimentary copy of her 21 Tips For The 21st Century contact her at 561-744-4988, ALPERT10@aol.com and visit her website: http://www.arlenealpert.com