Federal Benefits Made Simple - December 2025

Give us a call! 303-922-4304 federalbenefitsmadesimple.com FAX: 303-416-4358 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. M–F

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Federal Benefits Made Simple, an E.A. Buck Company (FBMS), is an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of insurance and investment products to custom suit their needs and objectives. Insurance products are offered through the insurance businesses FBMS and E.A. Buck Financial Services. FBMS is an Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services through Buck Wealth Strategies (BWS), a Registered Investment Advisor. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC. FBMS is not affiliated with or endorsed by the US government or any governmental agency. MAS is not affiliated with FBMS, E.A. Buck Financial Services, or BWS. FBMS, E.A. Buck Financial Services, and BWS are affiliated by common ownership. In California, we are known only as E.A. Buck Insurance in all solicitations of insurance. CMP-61834 - 12/25

INSIDE THIS ISSUE page 1 Finding Joy in a Little Friendly Competition page 2 Why Birdwatching Is a Stress-Buster Secure Your Income, Health, and Legacy page 3 3 Train Trips to Take Today Baked Feta, Tomato, and White Bean Skillet page 4 Overthinking Overload? Try These Mind- Clearing Tips

HIT PAUSE WHEN YOUR BRAIN WON’T STOP TALKING When ‘What If’ Won’t Quit

We’ve all been there: lying awake at night, replaying conversations, imagining worst-case scenarios, or obsessing over things we likely can’t change. Overthinking might feel harmless, but when those thoughts keep circling and interfering with sleep, they can take a toll on your mood, energy, and overall well-being.

Breathing exercises also works wonders. Place one hand on your heart, one on your belly, and take slow, steady breaths in and out through your nose to expand your belly. It’s simple, but it signals your body to relax and can help calm racing thoughts in just a few minutes.

Challenge your thoughts. Automatic negative thoughts (those instant, gloomy reactions) can trap you in “what

So, how do you break the cycle? It starts with noticing what’s happening in your mind. Next time your thoughts go into overdrive, pause and ask yourself: What emotion is fueling this? Maybe it’s worry, guilt, or frustration. Recognizing the source is the first step toward loosening its grip. Turn down the mental volume. When your brain feels stuck on repeat, try redirecting your energy. Shifting focus gives your mind a break and can help you feel more grounded. Try diving into a hobby, work out, learn a new recipe, or volunteer for a cause that matters to you.

ifs” and worst-case scenarios. Write them down, seek a more balanced perspective, and see if you can do anything about them. Taking

small, thoughtful actions toward solutions can help quiet the mental noise.

And remember, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Talking to a trusted friend or a therapist can give you a fresh outlook on managing those runaway thoughts.

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