Tips for Young Adults

By Edward S. Pratt, M.D., M.B.A.

1. Drive responsibly, use seatbelts, don’t drink and drive. You are not from Krypton…really!
2. Don’t smoke…two chances in three it will kill you. If you are lucky enough to avoid death, smoking will destroy your discs…really!
3. Work to stay fit by exercising regularly including weight training, aerobics and stretching.
4. Stretch and warm up before performing sport or heavy lifting.
5. If you are injured on the job, ask questions, learn your rights and responsibilities. Your best course is to use the resources available to get better. Focus on this and you will maximize your chances for recovery.
6. If your employee is injured, support them through the process, but keep them accountable. Set expectations and demand that they are fulfilled. When they are able, welcome them back. If they like you they will continue to try to perform for you, even while ill.