When most people hear someone mention a "killer instinct" they conjure up images of assassins and blood thirsty serial killers engaging in grisly carnage.  In most instances, this would be a fairly accurate portrayal of the phrase.  Traditionally, it means destroying anything weaker than yourself to advance your own agenda.  However, there is a far more sinister instinct that leads to more deaths and health complications per year than you could ever imagine.

   Let me set the stage for the killer.  As many of you may be aware, the housing market is suffering through some pretty grisly times right now.  As a result, many of those who depend on the market for their income are feeling the strain of the noose so to speak.  The funds are running out, and the holidays are coming.  Ordinarily a time for joy and happiness, they are now a source of dread.  There are presents to buy, feasts to prepare, malls to conquer, and no buyers for your inventory! 

   It is during these times that our killer makes his move.  Striking at our sleep patterns, nervous systems, and hearts.  Of course, I am talking about stress.  Countless studies have shown that excessive stress can have a devastating effect on our lives in countless ways!  Unfortunately, this is when a new type of killer instinct comes into play.  Our usual response to stress is not to get rid of it, but rather to add to it and compound the problem!  Many times, people won't even realize how stressed they are until they suffer a massive heart attack or begin going bald.  Our instinct is to simply keep trudging along even though we are becoming more and more of a basket case.

   Happily, I can give all of you an advanced weapon to combat this deadly assassin.  No, I'm not going to supplement your income or buy presents for your Uncle Mort, but I can help nonetheless.  I have long employed a tactic that has saved me from many a headache.  Whether I am "feeling" stressed or not, I take daily breaks to clear my mind and get a fresh perspective.  For example, I will take a morning break and hit the home gym for 30 minutes.  Or I may take out the mountain bike for some suicidal adrenaline rushes.  That way, I can trim the fat and clear my head at the same time!

   You don't have to do any of these things!  For you, a stroll through the parking lot, or a simple ten minute break for some solitaire may be enough to clear your head.  I personally prefer something strenuous to vent the aggression, but everyone has their own favorites! 

   The point is to make sure that you are taking time out of every day to do something totally non work related whether you feel the stress or not.  It is there, its just waiting to catch you at your weakest so it can turn you into a genuine postal worker!  So ship your stress into oblivion by beating it back BEFORE it builds up!  Your family, your heart, and your sleep will thank you.

For more ways to beat stress and avoid going postal, or for solutions for today's rental market, check out our website by clicking on the logo to the left!