Bryan

This is the first in a three-part series that will conclude in February.

During this global recession, it is crucial to be mentally and physically healthy. Studies have proven that stress is directly related to health problems. Balancing your life is now of paramount importance.

Tips for managing stress

Do not focus on problems, focus on solutions.

Give to others who are less fortunate.

Read books about empowerment.

As you build a financial reservoir, try to improve your income, save more and spend less. Time is money, therefore, investing for the long run is the secret, as financial freedom is not a 100-metre sprint but, instead, a marathon. Most successful people will reveal that the road to financial freedom is long, with a great degree of personal sacrifice.

According to Earl Jarrett, general manager of Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), "This is a good time to invest in real estate in Jamaica; since Prime Minister Bruce Golding announced the reduction of transfer tax and stamp duty from 7.5 per cent to five per cent, buying a home could be the biggest investment in one's life."

Financial return

As a broker, I firmly believe that a real-estate investment will bring a greater financial return, in the long run, than most investment vehicles.

Tips about Investment Products

It is not wise to subscribe to get-rich-quick financial planning.

Financial institutions like JNBS, the largest building society in the Caribbean, offer great mortgage programmes for home buyers. Jarrett noted that real estate remains one of the best investments to hedge against inflation.

Start small investments for children shortly after birth.

If you are in the United States, obtain fixed loans and ask about 15-year mortgages. Try to deal with direct lenders if this is possible.

As incredible as it seems, now is actually a very good time for real-estate investments and to take advantage of current deals in Jamaica and the United States.

Jamaicans and friends of the Caribbean region should take another look at our beautiful homeland and try to build on the positive aspects of our precious island, for example, supportive family and friends, consistently great climate, availability of natural beautiful resources and the ability to cultivate food in your own backyard.

Remember, what you do with what you have determines what you become. This 'What What What' approach will be helpful as we focus on the power of positive thinking in the difficult year ahead.

Elaine Grant Bryan holds a BSc, an MEd and an EdS. She is currently pursuing a PhD in education leadership. Website: www.elainebryan.com