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<title>Latest Articles by jonkelly</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Coping With Mastitis While Breastfeeding</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/coping-with-mastitis-while-breastfeeding.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/coping-with-mastitis-while-breastfeeding.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ What is mastitis?  This is a painful condition experienced by many women while breastfeeding.  It is caused by inflammation of the tissue in the breast.  This inflammation can be symptom of two different types of mastitis.  

The first, and most common form is when the milk has not been fully drained during feeding and the milk duct has become blocked.  The second form of mastitis is due to a bacterial infection.  If the first type of mastitis is left untreated then it can develop into the infection bacterial type.  

What are the symptoms of mastitis?  The symptoms vary depending from woman to woman; however, there are definite signs which should be watched out for.  Firstly a tender patch can appear on the breast and this will probably look pink or red and feel very tender to any touch.  This will be the point of the infection or blocked milk duct.  

If mastitis is not treated at this stage the symptoms will probably develop leading to a fever and a feeling of being very weak and exhausted.  The pain will usually be intensified during your babies feeding.  These symptoms will often cause a huge amount of stress and concern to the nursing mother and will probably result in her getting very emotional and anxious.

The pain felt during breast feeding makes this a very unappealing task; however, it is really important to continue and to increase feeding from the affected breast.  By increasing feeding the blocked duct will hopefully be drained naturally by the baby.  Any infection in the milk will not affect the baby and will pass straight through his or her system.

Increased feeding will also increase the milk supply, if you start to produce more milk than your baby needs or will drink it is recommended that you express in between feeds.  A hot compress on the red, inflamed area just before feeding will help to bring down the milk from that milk duct. 

Since the breast will be very tender a fabric compress is advised, a microwavable pain pad which is fabric covered and small enough to fit inside a sleep bra is ideal.  Equally if you are trying to express in between feeds then it is helpful to express with a hot compress on the area as this will encourage the milk flow and help to reduce some of the discomfort during expressing.  

Some cases of mastitis will need to be treated with antibiotics and it is important that you check with your health visitor or general practitioner as soon as you suspect any signs of mastitis.

During mastitis it is important to keep the area infected as comfortable as possible.  Applying heat will hopefully help milk flow and will reduce pain, any bras worn should be loose, wearing a sleep bra is probably the best option, as these are soft, and loose.  Sleep bras only offer minimal support, but they are suitable for holding a maternity pad or a hot compress.  

Once the mastitis has been treated either through antibiotics or through continued feeding, it is important to continue to monitor the breast and to make sure that the increased feeding does not lead to engorgement, which can cause the mastitis to return.

This is a cycle which needs to be understood.  While feeding to help drain the milk ducts the milk supply will be increased, if the milk supply is more than is needed this must be expressed to prevent the breasts from being over full and leading to either engorgement or mastitis. ]]></description>
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<title>The  Symptoms To Look For With Atypical Migraine And How To Manage The Pain</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/the-symptoms-to-look-for-with-atypical-migraine-and-how-to-manage-the-pain.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/the-symptoms-to-look-for-with-atypical-migraine-and-how-to-manage-the-pain.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Millions of people find themselves regularly suffering from migraine headaches, which often have easily recognizable symptoms.  Most regular sufferers can identify a migraine quickly after the onset of symptoms, which last anywhere from several hours to several days.  Available treatment options should be attempted as soon as symptoms appear, in order to shorten the length of the headache.  This will help prevent the headache from interfering with your work and home life.  It could also deter any atypical migraine symptoms from occurring.  As science and medicine progress, more and more treatment options are becoming available for regular sufferers of migraine headaches.

In most people who experience migraine headaches, they are a problem that reoccurs.  For whatever reason, certain people are much more prone to attacks of migraines and will have the symptoms on multiple occasions.  While there are common migraine symptoms, some sufferers also experience atypical migraine symptoms.  People who have regular migraines can frequently identify symptoms that precede the headache itself.  Some classic examples are pain around the eye area, nausea, or sensitivity to sound.  There might be a throbbing pain in the forehead or near one temple.

Treatment Options for Atypical Migraine Symptoms

In the past, people who were suffering from regular migraine headaches had few options but to sleep or take over the counter pain medications.  These severe headaches could last for 24 hours or more.  They would interfere with a person's responsibilities at work and home, leaving them unable to concentrate.  However, medical research has begun to provide more solutions for these powerful headaches.  There are also simple techniques that can be done without medication.  For example, applying ice to the locations where pain is occurring will help reduce the inflammation.  Steady breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can be used effectively to reduce the intensity or even the number of attacks.  Traditional Eastern practices such as acupuncture have solutions for migraines as well.

Many brands of pain medication now offer over the counter options that are specific to migraine headaches and the symptoms that accompany the pain.  These pills can provide a fast solution to the infrequent migraine sufferer.  However, for people who experience migraines on a regular basis or have atypical migraine symptoms, it is important to speak to a doctor about alternative solutions.  There are prescription painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications available, as well as drugs that can help reduce the frequency of migraines.  Your general care physician should have knowledge of these treatments or be able to refer you to a specialist.

Migraine sufferers should take their medications when they first notice symptoms of a migraine headache.  By taking the medication early, it will have time to help your body avoid the most intense pain and nausea and allow you to return to your day quickly.  These treatment options are great solutions for people who are frustrated by frequent migraine headaches.  Take control of your life by calling your doctor today.  He or she will help you find a solution to migraine headaches. ]]></description>
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<title>How to Create New Christmas Tree Decorations Out Of Christmas Card Recycling</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/how-to-create-new-christmas-tree-decorations-out-of-christmas-card-recycling.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Family/Holidays/how-to-create-new-christmas-tree-decorations-out-of-christmas-card-recycling.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Christmas Card  Recycling has been a holiday craft project for many decades.  I am sure some people are thinking, why bother with Christmas card recycling?  Let's first go back in time to where life moved at a slower pace and where Christmas was not so commercialized.  Handmade gifts were lovingly made and greatly appreciated.  Christmas was less stressful and thinking of and giving to others was the greatest priority. Christmas card recycling allows quality time spent with children and there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the look of pride on their little faces when their project is complete.  What grandparent, aunt, or uncle would not love to receive a handmade gift?  It is a lovely Christmas card recycling keepsake to be cherished for years.  This is also a great way to fill some time on rainy afternoons and to remind children how to play without toys and television.  Cutting, sticking and making is fun which the whole family can participate in, and can even become an integral part of the families preparation for Christmas.

Successful Christmas card recycling: The First Rule 

After the holidays save your cards and pack them along with your other Christmas decorations. This will ensure the cards being in the right place for crafting. Never place them with any other paper, avoid clutter and deciding to clean out and end up throwing them away.  Placed with your Christmas decorations is the best place.  The children will find them at the start of the Christmas season.  This is the perfect time to start Christmas card recycling projects.

Tree Decorations Using Recycled Christmas Cards  

This project starts by cutting shapes from cardboard.  Some examples include bells,wreaths,and trees.  Snowmen are an easy project for children.  Cut the snowmen from the card and let the children apply glitter.  Punch a small hole in the top and attach yarn and tie in a loop.  Then the ornament is ready to hang on your tree.

Another decoration for your tree that is made from Christmas card recycling is paper pompoms. Start by cutting eight discs from the front of cards (thinner cards work better). the discs should be 4 inches.  Then discs should be folded in half, stapling down the middle of the discs.  The discs should be folded vertically; hold in your hand, a layer from each side should be stapled together.  Continue layering and stapling until you have completed the pompom.  String with yarn and hang from your tree.

Recycling Christmas Cards for Gift tags

One of the simplest and easiest projects for Christmas card recycling is making gift tags. Just cut your desired shapes and write To and From on the back. 

If you are not into Christmas card recycling, there are some other options.  You can simply drop your cards off at a site, usually some shops collect them for charity.  a small donation is contributed to charities for every card donated.            

Either way you decide to recycle Christmas cards, remember you are saving a tree. And the fun you can have as a family makes this the perfect project.  Give it a try and surprise yourself. ]]></description>
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<title>Is It True That Drinking Red Wine can Improve Your Health ?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Food_and_Drink/Wine_and_Spirits/is-it-true-that-drinking-red-wine-can-improve-your-health.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Food_and_Drink/Wine_and_Spirits/is-it-true-that-drinking-red-wine-can-improve-your-health.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A glass of fine red wine provides the classic accompaniment to a dinner at an upscale restaurant or a cozy supper at home with family and friends. But now, emerging research suggests that red wine might have health benefits to make it doubly welcome at the table.

However, the detrimental effects of excessive alcohol consumption are well known, and many people might avoid red wine because of concerns that the health risks associated with alcohol might outweigh red wine's positive effects. In order to make a decision about whether drinking red wine is likely to contribute to your good health, there are a few basic facts that you should keep in mind.

The Pros And Cons Of Red Wine

Like any alcoholic beverage, red wine will become destructive to your health if consumed in excess. There are two major dangers associated with alcohol consumptions. The first is liver damage over time, which unfortunately is not a risk solely for people who drink in excess. 

Individuals, who are on certain forms of prescription medication, or over-the-counter pain relievers, may be at risk for liver damage even if they drink in moderation. When considering whether red wine might be good for your health, be sure to talk to your doctor about any medications you may be taking and whether these will make you vulnerable to liver damage. 

The other major risk is the danger associated with driving while intoxicated. Luckily, this danger is easy to avoid if you take some time to plan your evenings. A designated driver takes the risk out of evening get-togethers where a bottle of wine will be shared, and many people live within walking distance of excellent restaurants where a good glass of red wine can be enjoyed.

Taken in moderation, red wine has many benefits that far exceed the risks. For healthy individuals with no predisposition to liver problems, red wine is a source of abundant flavonoids, a type of antioxidant linked to a many indicators of good health. 

Flavonoids have been particularly associated with good cardiovascular health and show the potential to lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties. 

These potential health benefits are the result of a compound called reservatrol, which can be found in the skins and seeds of red grapes. This compound puts red wine in a class of food sources of antioxidants, a group which also includes dark chocolate, green tea and citrus fruits.

When weighing the advantages and disadvantages of red wine, it is important to consider the fact that red wine's benefits represent small amounts of protective and positive value over time.

Increasing the amount of red wine you drink will not increase the positive health outcomes associated with red wine and in fact would probably undermine any benefit that you might be receiving. While the dangers of liver damage and drunken driving are significant, there is also a slight elevation in the risk of breast cancer associated with alcohol consumption.

For this reason, many health experts advise women to drink no more than one alcoholic beverage per day and men to drink no more than two. ]]></description>
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<title>Tips To Surviving A Long Haul Flight</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Travel/air-travel/tips-to-surviving-a-long-haul-flight.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Travel/air-travel/tips-to-surviving-a-long-haul-flight.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Sooner or later, many people find themselves facing a very long plane trip. Professional assignments, family events and even the occasional dream vacation can motivate people to contemplate spending many hours on an airplane. If you are planning to travel a great distance, your only options would be to cover the distance in a single flight or plan to make one or more stopovers along the way.

Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and one of the main disadvantages of a flight with stopovers is time lost. In a situation where the distance will involve a great deal of travel time, the time wasted by boarding and exiting the various planes could add hours to an already lengthy trip. 

Beyond this extended trip time, stopovers will also increase the risk of missing a flight or causing your luggage to be put on the wrong plane. Despite the attraction of being able to get off a plane midway through your trip, the risks and inconveniences of a flight with stopovers could ultimately be discouraging factors. If these considerations lead you to choose an uninterrupted flight, there are several tips and precautions that can make your time on the airplane more comfortable.

Food And Beverages For A Long Flight

You may or may not be allowed to bring your own food and beverages onto the airplane, but there are helpful tips that you can follow regardless of whether you will be supplying your own refreshments or getting them on the plane. 

Most long flights will include a meal, and you should be careful that you don't eat so much that it upsets your digestion. You will want to relax as much as you can, and sleep if at all possible. So while it may seem tempting to eat a lot in the hopes that a large meal will make you drowsy, you may simply end up with an upset stomach that keeps you awake.

Knowing your limits in terms of food intake will help you have a pleasant flight. Above all, any passengers hoping to sleep on the flight should avoid caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, colas and other caffeinated sodas. Not only will these drinks keep you awake, their caffeine content could also contribute to dehydration. Water, juice and decaffeinated versions of coffee, tea and sodas are much better choices for those who wish to sleep on the plane. And because the effects of caffeine can last several hours, it would be wise to avoid caffeinated beverages in the airport as well.

Moving Around On The Plane

For part of the duration of the flight, you will be allowed to move around in the aisles of the plane. On a long flight, you should take the opportunity to stretch and walk around whenever it is convenient to do so. 

Getting up from your seat will not only help you avoid muscle cramps and stiffness, it will also reduce the chances of a blood clot forming due to prolonged lack of motion. Staying fully hydrated will also help reduce this risk. With these tips in mind, you should be able to reach your destination safely and with minimal stress. ]]></description>
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<title>How To Spot Common Wireless Internet Problems</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Career/how-to-spot-common-wireless-internet-problems.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Career/how-to-spot-common-wireless-internet-problems.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A reliable Internet connection is crucial for the many people who use the Internet in their careers, and even people who use the Internet primarily for entertainment may feel that they can not live without a good Internet connection.

A wireless connection adds the convenience of mobility to all the other appealing benefits of Internet connectivity, putting the vast information that is available online at your fingertips even when you are not at a desk. And once you are accustomed to that level of convenience, few things are more frustrating than losing a wireless Internet connection when you need to send an e-mail or find an important piece of information right away.

Fortunately, many wireless Internet problems are caused by situations that are relatively easy to fix. Even if you are not a gifted Internet technician, you may be able to restore your wireless Internet connection yourself without having to wait for technical support.

The first step in preserving your wireless Internet connection is ensuring that your connection is set up properly from the beginning. If you plan on installing your own wireless Internet hardware, be sure that the pieces of hardware will be compatible. Everything you purchase, which may include a wireless router and network cards, should have information on the package about compatibility.

 If you are shopping online, the company that produces the components should have a website detailing any compatibility issues with the products. If you are making the purchase in a store, make sure that the sales representatives explain how the components should be used for optimum effectiveness. Above all, be sure that you have the option of returning any items that do not work properly or that turn out to be incompatible with your other hardware.

For wireless Internet connectivity issues that arise after the hardware has been installed, checking the cables can be helpful. If any of the cables are loose or disconnected, or if the power supply is not connected, your wireless Internet connection will be compromised or nonexistent. 

Indicator lights will alert you to any problems with your connection, and lights that are flashing or off entirely are a sign that your connection needs to be checked. Turning off the router and waiting a few minutes before switching it back on can correct some wireless Internet connection problems

If you are doing business with an Internet contractor, you will have access to some technical support. Should you have problems with your modem, you will have the option of calling your provider and requesting diagnostics.

 If the company's tests reveal that your modem is working properly, you may have to recheck all your cables and connections. If, on the other hand, it turns out that your modem is the source of the problem, your contractor will probably replace that piece of equipment.

 Issues with hardware supplied by your contractor are easily taken care of, and in many cases the diagnostic services will be able to pinpoint any wireless connectivity problems without a technical support representative needing to visit your home or office. ]]></description>
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<title>The Cost And Benefits Of Solar Power Explained As Renewable Energy  Becomes A Viable  Alternative</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Career/the-cost-and-benefits-of-solar-power-explained-as-renewable-energy-becomes-a-viable-alternative.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Career/the-cost-and-benefits-of-solar-power-explained-as-renewable-energy-becomes-a-viable-alternative.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ As fuel costs continue to rise, alternative sources of energy become more attractive to individuals and businesses. For those who are concerned about pollution or about the depletion of natural resources, renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power have presented themselves as possible alternatives to oil and coal. 

Yet as increasing demand for clean, renewable energy drives a growing market for solar energy products, many people are left wondering what such systems cost and where those costs come from. Sunlight itself is free to everyone, yet the types of technology used to harness the power of sunlight can be costly. If you are interested in purchasing solar power products for your home or business, knowing what you will be paying for can help you make the best investment.

Two of the main types of products that take advantage of solar energy are passive and active solar products. These two types of  systems differ in how they are constructed and can also differ greatly in cost. Passive solar technology can be used to heat air or water using the sun's energy. Unlike an active solar application, passive solar set-ups accomplish their task without the use of additional electrical components, such as fans that need an external electricity supply. 

Some solar space heating or water heating systems are active solar heating systems that have various components that require external power sources. Because of their simplicity compared with active systems, passive solar heating systems generally have the lower cost of the two.

In addition to these solar heating systems, there are also solar power systems available. Rather than using the sun's energy for heating applications, these systems convert solar energy into electricity. These products are often constructed from hundreds of a type of solar energy collection cell called a photovoltaic cell. The name of this type of cell makes reference to the fact that the cell generates electricity from light. As sunlight falls on a photovoltaic cell, the light's energy is converted into electricity that can then be used to power many kinds of electronic devices.

Because of the complicated technology involved, these kinds of solar power systems can be very expensive. However, the cost savings may eventually more than pay off your initial investment in the solar cells.

When considering what kind of solar heating or power system to install in your home or business, be sure that you are purchasing your equipment from a reputable manufacturer or distributor who will be able to help you with any necessary repairs, periodic upgrades or additional conversion from traditional systems to a solar-powered system.

The best service will often be the most expensive, but you may be able to find grant funding to help offset the costs of equipment or installation. Many states offer grants for conversion to solar power, and doing some research into the grant programs for solar power systems in your area will help you get a sense of the how much financial assistance is available. ]]></description>
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<title>Caring For The Vibrant Beautiful Blooms Of Your Orchid</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Gardening/caring-for-the-vibrant-beautiful-blooms-of-your-orchid.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Gardening/caring-for-the-vibrant-beautiful-blooms-of-your-orchid.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Orchids produce some of the most spectacular and intriguing flowers in the world, but they can also be among the most difficult plants to care for. Despite the challenge of maintaining them, orchids have a continuing popularity among plant enthusiasts, and there are a variety of orchids available for both the expert botanist and the novice orchid hobbyist. 

You can probably find an orchid or two for sale at your local garden center at an affordable price, while specialty shops will carry orchids that are extremely rare and expensive. Whatever your level of commitment to nurturing an orchid, there are a few things that you can do to help your plant produce beautiful flowers.

Orchids are accustomed to warm, humid climates and usually require plenty of light. Whether you are raising your orchid in a greenhouse or keeping it in your office, be sure to choose a spot for your orchid where it will be warm without drying out. Above all, make sure that your orchid receives enough sunlight to enable it to bloom.

Most orchids require a lot of exposure to sunlight, and failure to provide enough light will result in an otherwise healthy plant that simply does not bloom. However, the leaves of an orchid can become very sensitive to sunlight if they have been in low-light conditions for a prolonged period of time. Therefore, if you decide that your orchid is not getting enough light, move it little by little to an area with greater sun in order to avoid injuring the leaves with sudden overexposure.

When you water your orchid, make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil. Orchids like a moist environment, and allowing the plant to dry out could endanger its health. An orchid's soil should also not be too heavy, and there should be good air circulation around the base of the plant. 

A certain mixture of orchid-specific nutrients is also essential for a healthy orchid, and you can purchase a substance called orchid bark to mix into the soil for potting your orchid. While supplying vital nourishment to your orchid, the addition of orchid bark will also improve air circulation through the soil, keeping your orchid beautiful.

If you truly want to appreciate your orchid, you will also have to understand that orchids do not flower all the time. After your orchid has flowered, you will need to care for the plant until it is ready to flower again. Once the blooms have faded, you should cut off most of the stem, leaving at least an inch intact. As long as you give your orchid adequate nourishment, water and light throughout its growing cycle, it will eventually flower again.

Over time, you may find that you want to expand your collection of orchids to include more exotic and challenging varieties. Orchid nurseries and specialty shops will have products specifically designed for the care of orchids, and you will be able to find a lot of advice to help you care for these amazing flowers. ]]></description>
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<title>The Importance Of A Well Designed Backpack Computer Case</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Computers/the-importance-of-a-well-designed-backpack-computer-case.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Computers/the-importance-of-a-well-designed-backpack-computer-case.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Computers are now extremely flexible pieces of equipment that are smaller and lighter than ever. Capable of going almost anywhere you go, laptop computers can now also connect to the Internet at any of the numerous Internet cafes in most cities and airports. Being able to take your computer with you is the main reason to have a laptop, but you need to make sure that you have a computer case that is functional, protective and sturdy.

The most important consideration when choosing a computer case is how well the case suits the type of computer you own. Some types of laptop computers are extremely small and light, which would cause them to slide around inside a larger computer case. Conversely, a heavier computer will require a carrying case with sturdy straps that are wide enough to distribute the weight comfortably.

For trips when you will be carrying your computer for a long time or when you need your hands free, you might want to consider a backpack computer case. Like any computer case, a backpack computer carrying case should be the right size for your computer and provide enough cushioning to prevent damage if the computer is bumped or jostled. There should also be some degree of water resistance to protect your computer and other electronic components from rain or spilled beverages.

The right backpack will have a good fit so that the computer does not shift its weight or bump while you are walking. The weight should be distributed so that it does not cause any strain on your neck and back, and you should be able to remove the backpack without a struggle. 

If you are accustomed to carrying a computer case in your hand or over your shoulder, you may find that a backpack causes fewer problems and will be less likely to induce muscle strains. The uneven distribution of weight caused by carrying a computer on one side of your body can cause muscle tension and posture problems over time. 

To get the best results from a computer backpack, make sure that the weight of the computer remains centered on your back when you move around and check to make sure that you can put the backpack on and take it off without too much exertion.

While investigating your options for a computer case backpack, you may find certain features that make some designs more appropriate for your use. For example, if you will be using your backpack computer case to transport your computer between home and work or between various work sites, you may want a case that has multiple flaps and pockets so that it can double as a briefcase or personal organizer.

 Any items that you will not need while you are in transit can be stored in the backpack computer case, including papers, CD-ROMs, flash drives and power cords. You might want to select a backpack that has a special pocket for a cell phone but, before buying a case with this feature, be sure that you are able to reach the pocket easily while wearing the backpack so that you are not forced to remove the backpack every time your phone rings. ]]></description>
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<title>A Few Profiles In Procrastination Psychology Demonstrating Organizational Strategy</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Personal_Development/Time_Management/a-few-profiles-in-procrastination-psychology-demonstrating-organizational-strategy.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Personal_Development/Time_Management/a-few-profiles-in-procrastination-psychology-demonstrating-organizational-strategy.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The difficulty of certain tasks often provokes a desire to delay or otherwise waste time before getting down to business.This impulse to procrastinate can affect peoples lives as an occasional temptation or as a nearly irresistible habit, depending on the temperament of the individual. 

In three particular areas of activity, namely college, business and home life, procrastination can have an especially detrimental effect. A closer look at the underlying factors for procrastination in each of these settings can help illuminate some of the influences in the decision to procrastinate. 

For many students, procrastination emerges as a significant problem during the first years of college. The college procrastinator is frequently an individual who, for one of several possible reasons, did not learn effective time management strategies during high school. Often accustomed to high school assignments that are strictly short term or that have been broken down into a series of smaller assignments by the high school teachers, the college procrastinator is at a loss to adjust to colleges long term assignments.

In some cases, the college procrastinator underestimates the difficulty of a term paper or end-of-semester project because the professor does not constantly remind the class about the upcoming deadline. For this reason, the difficulties faced by 
the college procrastinator can be seen as a failure to adjust from a structured, regulated learning environment into an environment where independent time management skills are necessary. Once the need for discipline and organization has been recognized, a few simple tools, such as a day planner, can help the college procrastinator organize a self-structured series of goals and deadlines for long-term assignments. 

Whereas the college procrastinator might put off a difficult assignment by playing computer games or socializing, the business procrastinator is often more subtle in his or her strategy. Rather than engaging in meaningless amusements, which might be punished if discovered, the business procrastinator often wastes time on activities that are in fact part or his or her job description but that are not the most important tasks at the moment.

In some instances, a lack of confidence in the ability to successfully complete difficult assignments compels the business procrastinator to pursue easy, straightforward minor tasks.  In other situations, an inability to distinguish between high- and low-priority assignments causes the business procrastinator to perceive that the simple tasks are just as important as the complicated ones, leaving the business procrastinator no reason to pursue the more difficult tasks. 

To remedy this circumstance, the business procrastinator first must learn to recognize which tasks have the most potential to impact the success of the business itself and to affect the course of business in the long term. Once this has been 
accomplished, the business procrastinator can break down long-term, complicated tasks into a series of manageable deadlines so that they are not quite so overwhelming. 

Rather than being unable to face a deadline, the home-life procrastinator is often uncomfortable with the never-ending nature of daily home-related tasks.  Yard work, home repairs, cleaning and meal preparation can all assume the uninspiring role of routine inconveniences in a persons life. 

As unfinished chores accumulate over time, the home-life procrastinator begins to feel the pressure of house work intruding on the joys of everyday life. To counter this situation, a specific time should be set aside each week to schedule a reasonable number of weekly chores. By naming which tasks should be accomplished on which day, the home-life procrastinator can gain control over the amount of work. And by limiting certain tasks to certain days, the procrastinator can stop feeling guilty about any unfinished chores provided that he or she has accomplished the chores set aside for the present day. ]]></description>
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</rss>

