A little help from your friends

[The Patriot]

A little help from your friends

10-06-2010 07:27 AM

ShareThis Published:
Wed, 2010-10-06 15:23


A little help from your friends


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A little help from your friends

The Family Support Center at RAF Menwith Hill’s mission is to provide individuals, families and the leadership of RAF Menwith Hill with policies, programs and services to strengthen the Menwith Hill community and promote self-sufficiency, mission readiness and adaptation to the military way of life.
So here are few helpful tips for the month of October courtesy of the center that can help everyone stationed in the United Kingdom whether at RAFs Menwith Hill or Croughton or anywhere in between.
Financial Tip of the Month
Did You Know? Sure Ways to Lose Money in Investing - If you don’t know a lot about the specific investments you are considering, you are sure to lose money. You may lose a lot. If you are a long-term investor, never consider these risky investments.
• Margin trading
• Short selling
• Options (puts and calls)
• Commodity futures (pork bellies, oranges)
• Limited real estate partnerships
• Gold, precious metals and gems
• Infomercial investment schemes
Be wise with your investing. One of the best investments you can make is in your retirement. For more information on TSP and other 401K programs call or visit the Family Support Center at 262-7730.

Employment Tip of the Month
Your resume says a lot about you—make sure it is a positive statement. Avoid these common mistakes that will make your resume appear unprofessional. First, pay attention to the email account you list on your resume. Your safest bet is to open a job search email account listing your name only. Second, PROOFREAD its basic but worth repeating. Have at least three other people look at your resume. Third, do not include personal data or pictures unless it pertains to the job. The hiring manager does not care about your marital status. Last, take the time to create your own resume. Hiring managers can spot resume templates. Your resume will get you in the door to a new job take the time to do it right.

Readiness Tip of the Month - Vehicle Preparation Tips prior to your deployment
1. Ensure vehicle is stored properly and/or someone is taking care/watching over it for you.
2. Make sure vehicle is in good working order before departing for spouse/individual watching over your vehicle.
3. Ensure insurance, MOT, Road Tax Disc, registration/title, base registration is current/valid.
4. Ensure name/location of trusted mechanic is left with spouse/individual watching over vehicle.

Relocation Tip of the Month
Things to do to help your Child emotionally when relocating
• Listen to your child’s concerns - talk about any fears before during and after the move.
• Don’t let your child get lost in the shuffle. Moving is a busy time make time for your children.
• Be honest – don’t try to spare your child’s feelings by not talking about relocation. Give you child time to accept the facts.
• Understand your child’s fears – Encourage your child to make a list of friends and their phone numbers and addresses. This will allow your child to stay in touch
• Let your child help – Ask your child to help with sorting, packing and unpacking. A little responsibility can go a long way.
• Communication is important – Try to explain, why, where and when you are moving. Encourage your child to ask questions. Although some questions may not sound important to you, they matter to your child.
• Take a trip – If possible, visit your new duty location and the surrounding community before the move.
Ten Steps to Reduce Stress in Your Families
1. Accept that stress is a normal part of everyday life. Some stress is good as it keeps you alert and focused. When stress gets out of hand, stress reduction exercises are necessary.
2. Make “to do” lists. By writing down what’s on your mind, you begin to feel in control and more able to handles life’s chores.
3. Make exercise a part of your everyday routine. Whether working out, playing a sport, or just walking a few blocks, exercise instantly begins to cut stress
4. Take a moment to stop and “smell the roses.” By thinking about what’s good in your life, you add perspective and reduce your stress level.
5. Try meditation. Fifteen minutes a day of quiet time with rhythmic breathing can clear your mind of worry and anxiety.
6. Cultivate your sense of humor. Laughing automatically lowers stress levels.
7. Organize your home, office, and financial affairs. By reducing clutter and disorganization, you will have more control and less anxiety.
8. Tackle big, overwhelming projects one step at a time. Remember every journey begins with a single step.
9. Make time for fun. Take your family to the movies or a park. Reward yourself with play for all your hard work.
10. Lastly, plan for the future. Making plans keeps you focused on the positive and gives you and your family things to look forward to.







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