Elaine Grant Bryan, Contributor

Elaine Grant Bryan - Contributed

Christmas is coming and we must remember relatives and friends who need assistance at this time. It may be more affordable to send money to Jamaica in instalments for the Christmas holidays. Start now to send money bimonthly.

Points to remember

1. Send money to Jamaica and encourage relatives to buy items that are made in Jamaica and by so doing boost the economy.

2. Those who are sending barrels of gifts, remember school items for students: books, pens, calculators, dictionaries and book bags. Support Air Jamaica for shipping.

3. Make travel plans early and support the national airline.

4. Build a strong foundation, invest and live below your means during prosperous times.

5. Remember that the true meaning of Christmas is giving.

6. Show gratitude to your bosses; be appreciative for being employed by giving in these difficult global times and be flexible.

7. Focus on the positive aspects of your life, including your current support systems, friends, relatives and mentors.

8. Develop expertise in your area of business based on personal talents. This will make you valuable in the workplace and marketable in difficult times.

9. Establish authentic relationships, be a team player, develop confidence and dedication.

10. Punctuality and regular attendance should be priorities while you are employed.

11. If you are a Jamaican living in the United States, become familiar with the country's labour laws.

12. Develop coping skills: exercise, get adequate rest and eat healthy foods.

13. Longevity in your place of employment is an asset. Gradually build a Plan B and spend time after work daily to develop an alternative source of income. Stick with Plan B and establish a business that you enjoy.

14. If you enjoy your business and develop expertise, it will eventually be profitable.

15. Jamaicans at home should temper expectations of what their relatives abroad can provide during this unprecedented worldwide economic downturn. Remember that times are difficult everywhere.

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

"We are all facing difficult times, so remember: What you do with what you have determines what you become."

16. Jamaicans living in the United States are now able to make international money transfers through companies such as Jamaica National Overseas Inc (a subsidiary of JNBS).