IDECIDED to devote this column to some lessons I have come across over the past few months from a variety of sources that could be applicable to the local business community.

From a recent lunchtime presentation by an area business leader: Work hard, play hard. While it's important to strive for high performance at work, it's necessary to step away at times and go have some fun. This will prevent burnout and ultimately improve job performance.

From that same speech: When looking to build wealth, seek out markets that are not efficient. Whereas the stock market is highly efficient, particularly large-cap stocks, other investments that aren't as closely watched can provide opportunities for market-beating success.

From observing a construction project: Work as hard as you can every day, but when it's quitting time, it's quitting time. There will always be more work in front of you, so don't be a martyr and try to get everything done in one day. Also, understand the order in which work must be done to maximize your efficiency.

From a consulting session through Leadership Fredericksburg: Take steps to get outside your comfort zone, even if it's not what your personality type generally trends toward.

From a new book by local resident Carmela Southers called "#Managing Your Virtual Boss. Tweet": The quality of an email response is just as important as the timeliness. So while responses shouldn't be put off for long stretches, there is also no need to quickly and tersely respond. Also, don't respond to worthless emails on the weekend, and get over the fact that there will always be messages to respond to. There are more important ways to use your time, and often a phone call is a more efficient and effective means of communication. And keep emails short and sweet.

Southers' book also includes lots of pearls of wisdom about managing a relationship with a supervisor, working effectively out of the office, being a good leader and more.

Got any additional good tips you have learned along the way? Feel free to email me. Maybe they'll show up in a future column.

Staff reporter Bill Freehling writes this biweekly column on business, personal finance and investing. He can be reached at 540/374-5405 or
Email: bfreehling@freelancestar.com.