Crest Ink - Volume 31 - Number 04

Effective Communication by Ashley Koza, LCSW, EAP Counselor, Sinnissippi Centers

Financial Wellbeing During the Holidays by Kaylene Reynolds, Personal Banker III, First State Bank, Shannon-Polo-Lake Carroll The holiday season is right around the corner, and unfortunately this time of year can bring stress to your bank ac- count and your financial wellness. Financial wellbeing is important to your overall health so simply follow the 4 steps below to ensure a happier, healthier you during the holidays! 1. Budget Setting an actual budget is the best way to avoid overspending. Decide what you are able to afford and stick with it. 2. Make a list (and check it twice!) Have you ever gone grocery shopping while you are hungry and without a shopping list? More than likely you end up buying way more than what you intended to. Holiday shopping is the same. Making a list will help you stay focused and will deter you from impulse buying. 3. Shop all at once A little shopping here and there could result in a lot of money spent because every time you venture out to the store or begin browsing around online, you run the risk of finding another good deal or sale that you can’t refuse. This year, try to do all of your shopping all at once. 4. DIY gifts Not all great gifts have to be store bought. Homemade gifts are great for our budget and for adding that extra spe- cial touch to let our loved ones know you care. This time of year can be stressful, so do yourself a favor and decrease the worry by prioritizing your financial well being for the holiday season. As humans, we communicate on a daily basis. We communicate verbal communication, written communication and through body language. According to Stevenson University, body language is one of the most important factors in communication. Some examples of non-verbal communication are gestures, expressions and vocal inflection. Even while listening the individual may be communicating non-verbally by nodding their head or lean- ing forward. When communication is effective, both individuals will leave feeling accomplished and satisfied. When communicating clearly there is less of a change of being misunderstood. Some tips for improving communi- cation are: 1. Make communication a priority. 5. Make sure you are understood. 2. Simplify and stay on message. 6. Develop your listening skills. 3. Engage your listeners or readers. 7. Maintain eye contact. 4. Take your time to respond. 8. Respect your audience. * Ashley Koza is our On-site EAP Counselor at Crest Foods. This confidential service is FREE to employees on Mondays from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at the Ashton Clinic on Rte. 38. To set up an appointment with Ashley, please call 815-732-3157.

October, November & December 2019 Crest Ink 21

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