What makes a millionaire truly rich? Knowing that his/her needs are met. (Okay, okay, so most of the "wants" are met too, but work with me here!!) So you're not a millionaire, YET! Doesn't mean you can't feel like one. Here are some quick tips to help your life flow smoother, meet some needs and reduce your anxiety level:

1. BUY 2
My father-in-law, Phil Rogoff, is a master at this! Find yourself going to the store over and over again for the same items? Whether it's a printer cartridge, pack of gum, bottle of Rolaids or ream of paper, whenever you buy one, buy two or three. Nothing feels better than running out of something and realizing you can open a drawer or closet and quickly find another! When you are down to your last one, stock up again.

2. LEARN TO TRUST YOURSELF
Become your own best friend by returning items to their proper place each and every time. Don't let things stack up on your desk or credenza - put them away! When that critical call comes in and an important file or paper is needed, learn to count on the fact that you will be able to go the correct place and find it.

Same with computer file folders - don't be cute in naming files, be systematic. I always label my computer files the same way - The Date Last Name Key Word. Example: 040100 Rogoff Proposal. I can always find a computer file when my memory fails me by searching on one of these criteria - if I can't remember the last name, I can usually remember approximately when I sent the letter, or what the letter was about. Plus the computer automatically files these in date order! I count on myself to be consistent with this. The result is less wasted time and a much reduced stress level.

3. BACK UP
It's never IF a computer will fail - it is WHEN. And I am not kidding. Backing up once a week using either a Zip Utility like Iomega, or doing individual software backups that come with each program will never be as appreciated as the time you need to recover data. Who has time to recreate that perfect spreadsheet with all the formulae, or re-enter a thousand-name database? And forget recreating the history! Windows 95 & 98 have their own backup utilities which you can activate by clicking: Start, Program, Accessories, System Tools. USE IT! Also, mix up your media - if you back up to diskettes, shuffle them in case one of the disks fails. Create a hard disk and a floppy backup. Usually one or the other can be recovered if disaster hits.

4. PRACTICE COMPLETION
We are all pulled in forty-seven directions at once. Last Sunday I thought I would take time to hem some slacks. I found myself hemming two pair and walking away with two left undone. When I came back into the room and saw the sewing basket, the unhemmed pants, the iron and ironing board sitting there, I immediately felt stressed. Taking the extra half hour to complete the task and put things away prevented that same stressed feeling every time I entered that room. I know interruptions are inevitable, especially when you have children. But some interruptions are avoidable - those are the ones you want to prevent. When you start a project like opening mail, complete it. When you begin to fold laundry, fold it and put it away. Same with any chore - office or otherwise. By taking the small tasks to completion, the larger projects won't seem so overwhelming. Trust me on this one.

BONUS TIP --- DO IT BEFORE YOU NEED IT
Parents know the value of making the kids lunch the night before. Big kids (like you) deserve the same courtesy. Nothing makes me feel better about starting my day than knowing my coffee is already made when I wake up. After I finish the pot for the day, I immediately refill it and set it for the next morning. My day begins without a lot of hassle, and as the saying goes, when mama's happy, everybody's happy. Try it yourself.