My yoga practice has taught me the power of mindfulness and how to train my mind to focus more on the present moment. That level of concentration comes in handy when doing challenging balancing poses and inversions when a wandering mind is like a sudden burst of wind that easily can cause me to topple.

No matter your industry or profession, the modern work environment can be a lonely place.  Even if you’re working in a bustling office amid a clamor of people, the interpersonal disconnect can be isolating, and can even lead to the extreme mental exhaustion known as burnout.

Many times, a new year can be when we are motivated to set new personal goals. We may want to get in better shape, save more money, or learn a new skill.

But what about your business? It deserves the same attention--but unfortunately often gets ignored. In fact, one survey found that more than 80 percent of the 330 business owners surveyed didn't track their business goals.

The end of the year is a time to reflect on our business successes and shortcomings, learn from them, and begin to plan for a new (and better) year. When I look back on my articles from this year, what stands out are the topics that people found most interesting and helpful to running their businesses.

The end of the year is a time to reflect on our business successes and shortcomings, learn from them, and begin to plan for a new (and better) year. When I look back on my most popular articles, what stands out are the topics that people found most interesting and helpful to running their businesses. So in case you missed them the first time (or need a reminder), here are four tips from some of my top stories that can help you prepare for a more successful 2019.

The same foods that cause obesity and heart disease are equally bad for your brain.

These four tips can help keep your customers happy and loyal.

Channel your inner wild animal for greater focus at work.

Whether I’m painting, writing, or playing a new song on the guitar, I’ve always found peace and solace in the arts. But like most creative people, there have often been times where I simply can’t find the inspiration to put paint to paper, or pick to strings. As someone who values work-life harmony and building bliss in all spheres of my life, it can be particularly difficult when my creative outlets feel less accessible.

The New York Times recently reported how many companies, brand ambassadors, celebrities, and even journalists purchased "fake" Twitter followers as a means to inflate their social media numbers. Many claimed to be pressured by social media firms, but the results were a PR black-eye that could possibly damage their public reputation.

Placing principle over profits can lead to dedicated employees and customer loyalty.

Greek philosophers taught valuable lessons on how to live that are still powerful today to keep us motivated in our business.

Here are my five favorite ancient words of wisdom and how you could utilize them for today: