Westworld Alberta
Issue link: http://westworldmagazine.ama.ab.ca/i/198651
1 GET RID OF STUFF you're not using Easier said than done, we know. But a 2009 study conducted by Princeton neuroscientists found that clutter inhibits your mind's ability to focus and process information. Prime items for removal: clothing that hasn't been worn in a year, outgrown toys, old textbooks, duplicate kitchen tools; broken items that cost more to repair than repurchase. And probably more. Donate usable items you don't need; recycle or safely dispose of the rest. While you're busy clearing out those rooms, bring a spreadsheet along and make an inventory of your possessions. "A home inventory is essential because when something like a break-in occurs, your insurance company will want an itemized list of your belongings," says Karen McDougall, insurance sales manager at AMA. "Knowing what you have and how much it's worth will also help you figure out how much coverage you need from the get-go." Go room by room, jotting down every item therein, along with details such as price, brand, model number and cost of replacement. Don't forget easy-to-overlook items, such as curtains, flooring and cabinets. Take along a camera or video camera to create a visual record as well. The Insurance Bureau of Canada recommends knowyourstuff.org, free online home inventory software with supporting phone apps. 3 PAY OFF YOUR credit card balance Around half of Canadians carry a balance on their credit cards. Unfortunately, being late on a bill payment by even one day can leave a mark on your credit score, which doesn't come off for at least six years. And everyone, from mortgage providers to prospective employers and landlords, uses your credit history as an evaluation tool. 44 W E S T W O R L D A L B E R TA | W I N T E R 2 0 13 p42-49_10 Ways Improve.indd 44 2 TAKE YOUR VACATION TIME We know. You're very important; your workplace will fall apart without you. But studies have shown that a minimum of two weeks' holiday (that's time away from work) reduces stress, weight and blood pressure, and improves sleep. So do yourself a favour and leave the grind behind, whether in Aruba or amid the ample beauty of your own province. Book your holiday online at AMATravel.ca. 4 CHECK YOUR credit report. According to the Policy and Economic Research Council in the U.S., as many at 19 per cent of credit reports contain some kind of error. Check yours for accuracy regularly by obtaining it free from credit bureau Equifax or TransUnion (just be aware that these companies offer both free and "pay" reports, and it can be a bit confusing – learn more at ama.ab.ca/ Westworld). Report any errors to the credit bureau. Don't like what else you see printed there? Boost your credit health by paying your debts and bills on or before their due dates and using one or two credit cards regularly and responsibly. (BOTH PAGES) ISTOCK 13-10-15 9:58 AM