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Working Smarter
Ever feel like work is an uphill struggle? We review a title that promises to help you get more done with less effort, time and stress – phew!

The phrase “work smarter… not harder” has been attributed to an industrial engineer in the 1930s. Allan F. Mogensen developed the idea of “work simplification” and conducted conferences based on the idea for almost 50 years. Although developed to increase efficiency and raise motivation in the engineering sector, the principles have since been translated for all sectors.

Many of us will now be familiar with the idea of “working smarter, not harder”. However, how many of us actually make sure that we put in place the principles that could make our working days so much more enjoyable and effective? If you ever find yourself feeling like a hamster in a wheel then Graham Roberts-Phelps’ book could help you to make the changes you need to start getting somewhere again.

Graham Roberts-Phelps is a consultant in business and personal development, who says he has now personally trained and worked with over 20,000 people from hundreds of organisations in 25 countries. He has now also written ten books on training and business, and his confidence and experience is evident throughout the book.

How many of us actually make sure that we put in place the principles that could make our working days so much more enjoyable and effective?
Roberts-Phelps is as comfortable taking the long view as he is focusing on the details, and the book is well organised and very accessible. In the first chapter, after setting the scene – the paradoxical modern busy world, in which technology was supposed to give us more free time but increasingly keeps us busier than ever – he introduces the key premise behind working smarter: “The only person that really cares about how you balance your life is you.”  This is not attributing blame or demonising employers; it is simply pointing out that employers and colleagues have their own priorities and to-do lists to complete. He then sets out the key principles behind “working smarter”, and guides his reader towards identifying the approaches that will suit them best. As he explains, “There is no one right way of working. It is simply what works for you.”

The subsequent ten chapters provide practical advice related to specific areas, including planning, goal setting, dealing with interruptions, conquering paperwork battles, overcoming procrastination and managing stress and anxiety, as well as miscellaneous tips and ideas. If you don’t want to read the whole book or would like immediate advice about specific areas, you can dip in and out of it and still find something that can help you make a positive change in your working
day.

Author: Graham Roberts-Phelps
Publisher: Thorogood
Price: £14.99

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.