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There Are No Wrong Decisions
Many of us have a hard time making decisions. We fear that if we choose the wrong partner, then we'll be stuck in an unhappy relationship. Or, if we make the wrong financial decision, we'll make a bad investment. Yet, there are no wrong decisions. Perhaps we could, at times, make different choices regarding our relationships, personal pursuits, careers, or the right color of paint we should buy for our bedroom. Yet, regardless of the outcome, we always gain valuable experience or insights from any choice we make.
Making a decision is always better than making no decision at all. At least we had the courage to decide, take a chance, and make a move in a particular direction. We can't take action unless we make a decision first. And, a decision is never wrong because we always gain something from it - whether we get what we thought we intended or learn a valuable lesson. Sometimes, we need to follow through on a decision to realize that we don't really want what we thought we did.
For instance, maybe you always wanted to live in a big city, so you leave family, friends, and a secure job in a small town to move across the country. However, once you get there, you find out that you don't really like city life. You never could have known that unless you tried it. So, you move back home, all the more appreciative of small town living. Rather than constantly wondering what else is out there, you are now able to fully embrace your surroundings and the direction your life there is taking. Your decision to move to the city did work out - just not in the way that you envisioned. While our decisions may not always lead us to what we thought we wanted, we always end up with what will ultimately make us happiest. Being able to make decisions is one of life's privileges. Exercise your right to fearlessly decide.
What do you think?
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Ten Time Savers
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– By Don Wetmore
In my Time Management seminars, which I have conducted for more than 100,000 people from around the globe, I show people how to get more done in less time, with less stress; to help them have more time for the things they want to do in their work and business lives.
If you can recapture a wasted hour hëre and there and redirect it to a more productive use, you can make great increases in your daily productivity.
Hëre are ten of the techniques I share in our Time Management seminars, each one of which will help you to get at least one more hour out of your day of additional productive time.
1. Maintain Balance. Your life consists of Seven Vital Areas: Health, Family, Financial, Intellectual, Social, Professional, and Spiritual. You will not spend equal amounts of time every day in each area. But, if in the long run you are spending a sufficient quantity and quality of time in each area, then your life will be balanced. But ignore any one of your areas (nevër mind two or three!) and you will get out of balance and potentially sabotage your success. Fail to take time nöw for your health and you will have to take time for illness later on. Ignore your family and they may leave you and cost you a lot of time to re-establish relationships. It is especially challenging for self-employed people to maintain balance, isn’t it?
2. Get the Power of the Pen. A faint pen has more power than the keenest mind. Get into the habit of writing things to do down using one tool (a Day-Timer, pad of paper, Palm Pilot, etc.). Your mind is best used for the big picture rather than all the details. The details are important, but manage them with the pen. If you want to manage it, you have to measure it first. Writing all things down, not just incoming orders, helps you to more easily remember all that you need to accomplish.
3. Do Daily Planning. It is said that people do not plan to fail but a lot of people fail to plan. Take the time each night to take control of the most precious resource at your command, the next twenty-four hours. Plan your work and then work your plan each day. Write up a To-Do list with all your “have to’s” and all your “want to’s” for your next day. Without a plan for the day, you can easily get distracted, spending your time serving the loudest voice, the noisiest customer, rather than attending to the most important things for your day that will enhance your productivity.
4. Prioritize It. Your To-Do list will have crucial and not-so-crucial items on it. Despite the fact most people want to be productive, when given the choice between crucial and not-so-crucial items, we will most often end up doing the not-so-crucial items. They are generally easier and quicker than crucial items. Prioritize your To-Do list each night. Put the # 1 next to the most important item on your list. Place the # 2 next to the second most important item on your list, etc. Then tackle the items on your list in order of their importance. You may not get everything done on
your list, but you will get the most important things done. This is working smarter, not harder, and getting more done in less time.
5. Control Procrastination. The most effective planning in the world does not substitute for doing what needs to be done. We procrastinate and put off important things because we don’t sense enough pain for not doing it or enough pleasure to do it. To get going on something you have been putting off, create in your mind enough pain for not doing it or enough pleasure to do it. I prefer the pleasure approach. Take a procrastinated item and turn it into to a game. Work with one thing in front of you at a time so other things won’t distract you. (“Out of sight, out of mind.”)
Break it down to little bite-sized, manageable pieces. Get it started, take the first step, and you will likely continue it to completion.
6. Run an Interruptions Log. The average person gets 50 interruptions a day. The average interruption takes five minutes. Some four hours each day, on average, are spent dealing with interruptions. Many are crucial and important, like new orders, and are what we get paid to do, but many have little or no value. Run an Interruptions Log to identify and
eliminate the wasteful interruptions. Just use a pad of paper and label it “Interruptions Log.” Create six columns: Date, Time, Who, What, Length, Rating. After each interruption is dealt with, log in the date and time it occurred, who brought it to you, a word or two about what it related to, the length of time it took, and finally the rating of its importance: A=crucial, B=important, C=little value, and D=no value. Run it for a week or more to get a good measure of what is happening in your life. Then evaluate the results and take action to eliminate some of the C and D interruptions that have little or no value.
7. Delegate It. We all have 168 hours each week and when you subtract 56 hours for sleep and another 10 hours for personal care, that doesn’t leave a whole lot of time to get done what needs to be done. Delegation permits you to leverage your time through others and thereby increase your own results. The hardest part of delegation, though, is simply letting go. We take great pride in doing things ourselves. “If you want a job done well, you better do it yourself.” Every night in Daily Planning, look at all that you have to do and want to do the next day, and with each item ask yourself, “Is this the best use of my time?” If it is, do it. If it isn’t, try to arrange a way to delegate it to someone else. There is a lot of difference between “I do it” and “It gets done.”
8. Manage Meeting Time. A meeting is when two or more people get together to exchange common information. What could be simpler? Yet, it can be one of the biggest time wasters we must endure. Before a meetin, ask, “Is it necessary?” and “Am I necessary?” If the answers to either are “no,” consider not having the meeting or excusing yourself from attending. Then prepare a written agenda for the meeting with times assigned for each item along with a starting time and ending time. Circulate the written agenda among those who will be attending. There is no sense in holding a meeting by ambush. Let people know in advance what is to be discussed.
9. Handle Paper. It’s easy to get buried today in the blizzard of paperwork around us. The average person receives around 150 communications each day via email, telephone, hard mail, memos, circulars, faxes, etc. A lot of time is wasted going through the same pile of paper day after day and correcting mistakes when things slip through the cracks. Try to handle the paper once and be done with it. If it is something that can be done in a minute or two, do it and be done. If it is not the best use of your time, delegate it. If it is going to take some time to complete, schedule ahead in your day calendar on the day you think you might get to it and then put it away.
10. Run a Time Log. If you want to manage it, you have to measure it. A Time Log is a simple yet powerful tool to create a photo album sort of overview of how your time is actually being spent during the day. Simply make an ongoing record of your time as you spend it. Record the activity, the time spent on it, and then the rating using A, B, C, and D as described above. Some examples of how your time might be spent: Made telephone calls, 35 minutes, A; Made baskets, 48 minutes, A; Attended
meeting, 55 minutes, C: Telephone call from Janis, D. Run this for a few days to get a good picture of how your time is being spent. Then analyze the information. Add up all the A, B, C, and D times. Most discover a lot of their time is being spent on C and D items that have little or no value. Finally, take action steps to reduce the C and D items to give you more time for the really important things in your life.
About the Author:
Time Management Seminars available on-site, at your location, from one hour to three full days for groups of any size. Get more done in less time. For information, email your request for “on-site” to: ctsem@msn.com
– By Don Wetmore
In my Time Management seminars, which I have conducted for more than 100,000 people from around the globe, I show people how to get more done in less time, with less stress; to help them have more time for the things they want to do in their work and business lives.
If you can recapture a wasted hour hëre and there and redirect it to a more productive use, you can make great increases in your daily productivity.
Hëre are ten of the techniques I share in our Time Management seminars, each one of which will help you to get at least one more hour out of your day of additional productive time.
1. Maintain Balance. Your life consists of Seven Vital Areas: Health, Family, Financial, Intellectual, Social, Professional, and Spiritual. You will not spend equal amounts of time every day in each area. But, if in the long run you are spending a sufficient quantity and quality of time in each area, then your life will be balanced. But ignore any one of your areas (nevër mind two or three!) and you will get out of balance and potentially sabotage your success. Fail to take time nöw for your health and you will have to take time for illness later on. Ignore your family and they may leave you and cost you a lot of time to re-establish relationships. It is especially challenging for self-employed people to maintain balance, isn’t it?
2. Get the Power of the Pen. A faint pen has more power than the keenest mind. Get into the habit of writing things to do down using one tool (a Day-Timer, pad of paper, Palm Pilot, etc.). Your mind is best used for the big picture rather than all the details. The details are important, but manage them with the pen. If you want to manage it, you have to measure it first. Writing all things down, not just incoming orders, helps you to more easily remember all that you need to accomplish.
3. Do Daily Planning. It is said that people do not plan to fail but a lot of people fail to plan. Take the time each night to take control of the most precious resource at your command, the next twenty-four hours. Plan your work and then work your plan each day. Write up a To-Do list with all your “have to’s” and all your “want to’s” for your next day. Without a plan for the day, you can easily get distracted, spending your time serving the loudest voice, the noisiest customer, rather than attending to the most important things for your day that will enhance your productivity.
4. Prioritize It. Your To-Do list will have crucial and not-so-crucial items on it. Despite the fact most people want to be productive, when given the choice between crucial and not-so-crucial items, we will most often end up doing the not-so-crucial items. They are generally easier and quicker than crucial items. Prioritize your To-Do list each night. Put the # 1 next to the most important item on your list. Place the # 2 next to the second most important item on your list, etc. Then tackle the items on your list in order of their importance. You may not get everything done on
your list, but you will get the most important things done. This is working smarter, not harder, and getting more done in less time.
5. Control Procrastination. The most effective planning in the world does not substitute for doing what needs to be done. We procrastinate and put off important things because we don’t sense enough pain for not doing it or enough pleasure to do it. To get going on something you have been putting off, create in your mind enough pain for not doing it or enough pleasure to do it. I prefer the pleasure approach. Take a procrastinated item and turn it into to a game. Work with one thing in front of you at a time so other things won’t distract you. (“Out of sight, out of mind.”)
Break it down to little bite-sized, manageable pieces. Get it started, take the first step, and you will likely continue it to completion.
6. Run an Interruptions Log. The average person gets 50 interruptions a day. The average interruption takes five minutes. Some four hours each day, on average, are spent dealing with interruptions. Many are crucial and important, like new orders, and are what we get paid to do, but many have little or no value. Run an Interruptions Log to identify and
eliminate the wasteful interruptions. Just use a pad of paper and label it “Interruptions Log.” Create six columns: Date, Time, Who, What, Length, Rating. After each interruption is dealt with, log in the date and time it occurred, who brought it to you, a word or two about what it related to, the length of time it took, and finally the rating of its importance: A=crucial, B=important, C=little value, and D=no value. Run it for a week or more to get a good measure of what is happening in your life. Then evaluate the results and take action to eliminate some of the C and D interruptions that have little or no value.
7. Delegate It. We all have 168 hours each week and when you subtract 56 hours for sleep and another 10 hours for personal care, that doesn’t leave a whole lot of time to get done what needs to be done. Delegation permits you to leverage your time through others and thereby increase your own results. The hardest part of delegation, though, is simply letting go. We take great pride in doing things ourselves. “If you want a job done well, you better do it yourself.” Every night in Daily Planning, look at all that you have to do and want to do the next day, and with each item ask yourself, “Is this the best use of my time?” If it is, do it. If it isn’t, try to arrange a way to delegate it to someone else. There is a lot of difference between “I do it” and “It gets done.”
8. Manage Meeting Time. A meeting is when two or more people get together to exchange common information. What could be simpler? Yet, it can be one of the biggest time wasters we must endure. Before a meetin, ask, “Is it necessary?” and “Am I necessary?” If the answers to either are “no,” consider not having the meeting or excusing yourself from attending. Then prepare a written agenda for the meeting with times assigned for each item along with a starting time and ending time. Circulate the written agenda among those who will be attending. There is no sense in holding a meeting by ambush. Let people know in advance what is to be discussed.
9. Handle Paper. It’s easy to get buried today in the blizzard of paperwork around us. The average person receives around 150 communications each day via email, telephone, hard mail, memos, circulars, faxes, etc. A lot of time is wasted going through the same pile of paper day after day and correcting mistakes when things slip through the cracks. Try to handle the paper once and be done with it. If it is something that can be done in a minute or two, do it and be done. If it is not the best use of your time, delegate it. If it is going to take some time to complete, schedule ahead in your day calendar on the day you think you might get to it and then put it away.
10. Run a Time Log. If you want to manage it, you have to measure it. A Time Log is a simple yet powerful tool to create a photo album sort of overview of how your time is actually being spent during the day. Simply make an ongoing record of your time as you spend it. Record the activity, the time spent on it, and then the rating using A, B, C, and D as described above. Some examples of how your time might be spent: Made telephone calls, 35 minutes, A; Made baskets, 48 minutes, A; Attended
meeting, 55 minutes, C: Telephone call from Janis, D. Run this for a few days to get a good picture of how your time is being spent. Then analyze the information. Add up all the A, B, C, and D times. Most discover a lot of their time is being spent on C and D items that have little or no value. Finally, take action steps to reduce the C and D items to give you more time for the really important things in your life.
About the Author:
Time Management Seminars available on-site, at your location, from one hour to three full days for groups of any size. Get more done in less time. For information, email your request for “on-site” to: ctsem@msn.com
WHEN YOU CEASE TO DREAM, YOU CEASE TO LIVE
-----------------------------------------------
If you want to enlarge your life, you must first enlarge your thought of it and yourself. You can lift yourself by your thoughts, and your vision of the future will help you climb mountains.
Hold the ideal of yourself as you long to be, your ideal of what you long to attain...the ideal of health, efficiency, success. You'll become as small as your controlling desire or as great as your dominant aspiration.
High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation.
©2005 by Max Steingart
If you want to enlarge your life, you must first enlarge your thought of it and yourself. You can lift yourself by your thoughts, and your vision of the future will help you climb mountains.
Hold the ideal of yourself as you long to be, your ideal of what you long to attain...the ideal of health, efficiency, success. You'll become as small as your controlling desire or as great as your dominant aspiration.
High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation.
©2005 by Max Steingart
Monday, January 30, 2006
Five Actions
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Panchakarma
"Panchakarma," a sanskrit word meaning "five actions," describes a series of gentle, natural therapies that boost the body's ability to detoxify and rejuvenate. As an essential part of Ayurveda, India's ancient holistic system of medicine, it is used to maintain the body's balance to prevent illness or as the first step in holistic treatment. Panchakarma's incredible purification improves healing throughout the body, mind, and spirit, clearing the way for the body's healing intelligence to flow freely.
Today, an oil massage, steam baths, and a special diet prepare your body for several days of relaxing, healing therapies at a spa-like medical clinic. A precise sequence of soothing treatments is then applied in such a way that brainwaves are stimulated and synchronized, creating deep relaxation and an expanded state of consciousness. At the same time, herbal therapies help flush toxins from the body's systems and tissues while massage soothes the body and balances its energy. Profoundly rejuvenating, Panchakarma can increase energy and mental clarity. It has even been known to slow the aging process and heal diseases previously thought to be incurable according to Western medicine.
Depending on the needs of the particular individual, a series of five basic therapies are used: Vaman purges toxins from the sinuses, lungs, and stomach; Virechan flushes toxins from the small intestine; Vasti removes toxins from the colon; Nasyam is herbal therapy applied through the nose for head and sinus conditions. The fifth therapy can be one of three methods: Rakta Moksham removes the excess toxins in the bloodstream, while Shiro Dhara uses a hot-oil head massage. A second form of Vasti can also be applied. Along with a relief of symptoms and improvements in physical disorders, many people, after experiencing Panchakarma, feel lighter, more energized, and look younger. The body's ability to heal itself is deeply enhanced with the techniques of Panchakarma. By embracing its methods, we eliminate obstacles to complete balance in our bodies and allow the powerful flow of our healing energy to restore our health, our natural glow, and our zest for life.
What do you think?
Panchakarma
"Panchakarma," a sanskrit word meaning "five actions," describes a series of gentle, natural therapies that boost the body's ability to detoxify and rejuvenate. As an essential part of Ayurveda, India's ancient holistic system of medicine, it is used to maintain the body's balance to prevent illness or as the first step in holistic treatment. Panchakarma's incredible purification improves healing throughout the body, mind, and spirit, clearing the way for the body's healing intelligence to flow freely.
Today, an oil massage, steam baths, and a special diet prepare your body for several days of relaxing, healing therapies at a spa-like medical clinic. A precise sequence of soothing treatments is then applied in such a way that brainwaves are stimulated and synchronized, creating deep relaxation and an expanded state of consciousness. At the same time, herbal therapies help flush toxins from the body's systems and tissues while massage soothes the body and balances its energy. Profoundly rejuvenating, Panchakarma can increase energy and mental clarity. It has even been known to slow the aging process and heal diseases previously thought to be incurable according to Western medicine.
Depending on the needs of the particular individual, a series of five basic therapies are used: Vaman purges toxins from the sinuses, lungs, and stomach; Virechan flushes toxins from the small intestine; Vasti removes toxins from the colon; Nasyam is herbal therapy applied through the nose for head and sinus conditions. The fifth therapy can be one of three methods: Rakta Moksham removes the excess toxins in the bloodstream, while Shiro Dhara uses a hot-oil head massage. A second form of Vasti can also be applied. Along with a relief of symptoms and improvements in physical disorders, many people, after experiencing Panchakarma, feel lighter, more energized, and look younger. The body's ability to heal itself is deeply enhanced with the techniques of Panchakarma. By embracing its methods, we eliminate obstacles to complete balance in our bodies and allow the powerful flow of our healing energy to restore our health, our natural glow, and our zest for life.
What do you think?
Friday, January 27, 2006
The Year Of The Dog
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Guidance For Chinese New Year
According to the Chinese calendar and zodiac, January 29, 2006 brings us the Year of the Dog. This means that we have the helpful energy of this loyal companion to accomplish much good in the world and in our lives this year. When we think about dogs, we think of their steadfast love, loyalty, friendly companionship, and forgiving nature. Dogs are playful, but work hard and rest well. They create balance in their lives. We no longer need to be envious of a dog's life, because we can incorporate these qualities to our lives this year.
Dog energy emphasizes the defense of our deepest loyalties with honesty and integrity. Dogs thrive in the security of a healthy, happy home. They value personal happiness and comfort more than material wealth. We may want to envision the world's leaders being guided by the values inherent in dog energy. We can also choose this year as a time to focus on what's important in our lives and apply a dog's steady efforts to lovingly protect it.
To the Chinese, dogs symbolize justice and equality. We too can utilize this spirit to bark at injustice, right any wrongs, and restore order. Since dogs also enjoy helping people, this can be a good year for humanitarian efforts and the group consciousness energy needed for rallies and protests. Canine qualities like warmth, empathy, and genuine interest in others is beneficial in most situations. The Chinese calendar includes a five-year cycle of elements, and fire is the element for 2006. This means that this year's dog energy is lit by the fire to get things accomplished. The Year of the Dog takes places every twelve years. With a dog's forthright honesty and true moral integrity to guide this burning enthusiasm, we can look forward to a truly great year ahead.
What do you think?
Guidance For Chinese New Year
According to the Chinese calendar and zodiac, January 29, 2006 brings us the Year of the Dog. This means that we have the helpful energy of this loyal companion to accomplish much good in the world and in our lives this year. When we think about dogs, we think of their steadfast love, loyalty, friendly companionship, and forgiving nature. Dogs are playful, but work hard and rest well. They create balance in their lives. We no longer need to be envious of a dog's life, because we can incorporate these qualities to our lives this year.
Dog energy emphasizes the defense of our deepest loyalties with honesty and integrity. Dogs thrive in the security of a healthy, happy home. They value personal happiness and comfort more than material wealth. We may want to envision the world's leaders being guided by the values inherent in dog energy. We can also choose this year as a time to focus on what's important in our lives and apply a dog's steady efforts to lovingly protect it.
To the Chinese, dogs symbolize justice and equality. We too can utilize this spirit to bark at injustice, right any wrongs, and restore order. Since dogs also enjoy helping people, this can be a good year for humanitarian efforts and the group consciousness energy needed for rallies and protests. Canine qualities like warmth, empathy, and genuine interest in others is beneficial in most situations. The Chinese calendar includes a five-year cycle of elements, and fire is the element for 2006. This means that this year's dog energy is lit by the fire to get things accomplished. The Year of the Dog takes places every twelve years. With a dog's forthright honesty and true moral integrity to guide this burning enthusiasm, we can look forward to a truly great year ahead.
What do you think?
The Secret of Happiness
-------------------------------------------------
- by Steve Brunkhorst, © Copyright 2004
The old man shuffled slowly into the restaurant. With head tilted, and shoulders bent forward, he leaned on his trusty cane with each unhurried step.
His tattered cloth jacket, patched trousers, worn out shoes, and warm personality made him stand out from the usual Saturday morning breakfast crowd. Unforgettable were his pale blue eyes that sparkled like diamonds, large rosy cheeks, and thin lips held in a tight, steady smile.
He stopped, turned with his whole body, and winked at a little girl seated by the door. She flashed a big grin right back at him. A young waitress named Mary watched him shuffle toward a table by the window.
Mary ran over to him, and said, "Here, Sir. Let me give you a hand with that chair."
Without saying a word, he smiled and nodded a thank you. She pulled the chair away from the table. Steadying him with one arm, she helped him move in front of the chair, and get comfortably seated. Then she scooted the table up close to him, and leaned his cane against the table where he could reach it.
In a soft, clear voice he said, "Thank you, Miss. And bless you for your kind gestures."
"You're welcome, Sir." She replied. "And my name is Mary. I'll be back in a moment, and if you need anything at all in the mean time, just wave at me!"
After he had finished a hearty meal of pancakes, bacon, and hot lemon tea, Mary brought him the change from his ticket. He left it lay. She helped him up from his chair, and out from behind the table. She handed him his cane, and walked with him to the front door.
Holding the door open for him, she said, "Come back and see us, Sir!"
He turned with his whole body, winked a smile, and nodded a thank you. "You are very kind." he said softly.
When Mary went to clean his table, she almost fainted. Under his plate she found a business card, and a note scribbled on a napkin. Under the napkin was a one hundred dollar bill.
The note on the napkin read...
"Dear Mary, I respect you very much, and you respect yourself too. It shows by the way you treat others. You have found the secret of happiness. Your kind gestures will shine through those who meet you."
The man she had waited on was the owner of the restaurant where she worked. This was the first time that she, or any of his employees had ever seen him in person.
Authors Note: This story is based on actual events experienced by a friend from St. Paul, Minnesota. The note is the exact wording on the napkin that she has kept in her scrap book for fifteen years.
About The Author
Steve Brunkhorst is a professional life success coach, and the editor of Achieve! 60-Second Nuggets of Inspiration, a popular mini-zine bringing stories, motivational nuggets, and inspiring thoughts to help you achieve more in your career and personal life. Find more articles and resources at Achieve! 60-Second Nuggets of Inspiration
- by Steve Brunkhorst, © Copyright 2004
The old man shuffled slowly into the restaurant. With head tilted, and shoulders bent forward, he leaned on his trusty cane with each unhurried step.
His tattered cloth jacket, patched trousers, worn out shoes, and warm personality made him stand out from the usual Saturday morning breakfast crowd. Unforgettable were his pale blue eyes that sparkled like diamonds, large rosy cheeks, and thin lips held in a tight, steady smile.
He stopped, turned with his whole body, and winked at a little girl seated by the door. She flashed a big grin right back at him. A young waitress named Mary watched him shuffle toward a table by the window.
Mary ran over to him, and said, "Here, Sir. Let me give you a hand with that chair."
Without saying a word, he smiled and nodded a thank you. She pulled the chair away from the table. Steadying him with one arm, she helped him move in front of the chair, and get comfortably seated. Then she scooted the table up close to him, and leaned his cane against the table where he could reach it.
In a soft, clear voice he said, "Thank you, Miss. And bless you for your kind gestures."
"You're welcome, Sir." She replied. "And my name is Mary. I'll be back in a moment, and if you need anything at all in the mean time, just wave at me!"
After he had finished a hearty meal of pancakes, bacon, and hot lemon tea, Mary brought him the change from his ticket. He left it lay. She helped him up from his chair, and out from behind the table. She handed him his cane, and walked with him to the front door.
Holding the door open for him, she said, "Come back and see us, Sir!"
He turned with his whole body, winked a smile, and nodded a thank you. "You are very kind." he said softly.
When Mary went to clean his table, she almost fainted. Under his plate she found a business card, and a note scribbled on a napkin. Under the napkin was a one hundred dollar bill.
The note on the napkin read...
"Dear Mary, I respect you very much, and you respect yourself too. It shows by the way you treat others. You have found the secret of happiness. Your kind gestures will shine through those who meet you."
The man she had waited on was the owner of the restaurant where she worked. This was the first time that she, or any of his employees had ever seen him in person.
Authors Note: This story is based on actual events experienced by a friend from St. Paul, Minnesota. The note is the exact wording on the napkin that she has kept in her scrap book for fifteen years.
About The Author
Steve Brunkhorst is a professional life success coach, and the editor of Achieve! 60-Second Nuggets of Inspiration, a popular mini-zine bringing stories, motivational nuggets, and inspiring thoughts to help you achieve more in your career and personal life. Find more articles and resources at Achieve! 60-Second Nuggets of Inspiration
YOU HAVE UNLIMITED CHOICES
YOU HAVE UNLIMITED CHOICES
------------------------------------------------
You don't have to buy from anyone. You don't have to work at any particular job. You don't have to participate in any given relationship. You can choose.
You steer the course you choose in the direction of where you want to be today, tomorrow, or in a distant time to come. You hold the tiller.
You can decide to alter the course of your life at any time. No one can ever take that away from you. You can decide what you want and go after it. It's always your next move.
©2004 by Max Steingart
------------------------------------------------
You don't have to buy from anyone. You don't have to work at any particular job. You don't have to participate in any given relationship. You can choose.
You steer the course you choose in the direction of where you want to be today, tomorrow, or in a distant time to come. You hold the tiller.
You can decide to alter the course of your life at any time. No one can ever take that away from you. You can decide what you want and go after it. It's always your next move.
©2004 by Max Steingart
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Conditioned Response
--------------------------------------------------
Reactions To Life Events
Our experiences color everything. The events of the past can have a profound effect on how we see our lives now and what we choose to believe about our world. Our past experiences can also influence our emotional reactions and responses to present events. Each of us reacts to stimulus based on what we have learned in life. There is no right or wrong to it; it is simply the result of past experience. Later, when our strong feelings have passed, we may be surprised at our reactions. Yet when we face a similar situation, again our reactions may be the same. When we understand those experiences, we can come that much closer to understanding our reactions and consciously change them.
Between stimulus and reaction exists a fleeting moment of thought. Often, that thought is based on something that has happened to you in the past. When presented with a similar situation later on, your natural impulse is to unconsciously regard it in a similar light. For example, if you survived a traumatic automobile accident as a youngster, the first thing you might feel upon witnessing even a minor collision between vehicles may be intense panic. If you harbor unpleasant associations with death from a past experience, you may find yourself unable to think about death as a gentle release or the next step toward a new kind of existence. You can, however, minimize the intensity of your reactions by identifying the momentary thought that inspires your reaction. Then, next time, replace that thought with a more positive one.
Modifying your reaction by modifying your thoughts is difficult, but it can help you to see and experience formerly unpleasant situations in a whole new light. It allows you to stop reacting unconsciously. Learning the reason of your reactions may also help you put aside a negative reaction long enough to respond in more positive and empowered ways. Your reactions and responses then become about what's happening in the present moment rather than about the past. As time passes, your negative thoughts may lose strength, leaving only your positive thoughts to inform your healthy reactions.
What do you think?
Reactions To Life Events
Our experiences color everything. The events of the past can have a profound effect on how we see our lives now and what we choose to believe about our world. Our past experiences can also influence our emotional reactions and responses to present events. Each of us reacts to stimulus based on what we have learned in life. There is no right or wrong to it; it is simply the result of past experience. Later, when our strong feelings have passed, we may be surprised at our reactions. Yet when we face a similar situation, again our reactions may be the same. When we understand those experiences, we can come that much closer to understanding our reactions and consciously change them.
Between stimulus and reaction exists a fleeting moment of thought. Often, that thought is based on something that has happened to you in the past. When presented with a similar situation later on, your natural impulse is to unconsciously regard it in a similar light. For example, if you survived a traumatic automobile accident as a youngster, the first thing you might feel upon witnessing even a minor collision between vehicles may be intense panic. If you harbor unpleasant associations with death from a past experience, you may find yourself unable to think about death as a gentle release or the next step toward a new kind of existence. You can, however, minimize the intensity of your reactions by identifying the momentary thought that inspires your reaction. Then, next time, replace that thought with a more positive one.
Modifying your reaction by modifying your thoughts is difficult, but it can help you to see and experience formerly unpleasant situations in a whole new light. It allows you to stop reacting unconsciously. Learning the reason of your reactions may also help you put aside a negative reaction long enough to respond in more positive and empowered ways. Your reactions and responses then become about what's happening in the present moment rather than about the past. As time passes, your negative thoughts may lose strength, leaving only your positive thoughts to inform your healthy reactions.
What do you think?
How to Read a Page a Minute
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– By Saleem Rana
The Industrial Age is behind us nöw. Machines can out-produce even the most diligent worker. But no förm of artificial intelligence can match the brilliance of the human mind. Thus, while machines can replace muscle, nothing can replace the brain. So we in the Information Age must sharpen our skills to keep up with the rapid pace of knowledge.
Yet while multimedia presentations are becoming more ubiquitous, reading remains the primary way to learn. It remains an essential skill. The faster you can read, the more you learn. And, of course, the more you learn, the more you can earn.
Yet it isn't enough just to process written information faster; you also have to be able to retain it.
Speed reading appears to be an answer to how you can read faster, understand what you read, and retain more of the information in long term memory.
Hëre are 7 ways you can start speed reading right nöw.
One, relax as you read. The more stressed you are, the less you can retain. A relaxed reader is an attentive reader.
Two, read with a purpose. Before reading, isolate why you are reading, then select those parts of the text or book that gives you that information. Many books have low content because of the need to fill out a two-page theme to book length. Sometimes, too, even with a high content book, you may only be interested in a few chapters.
Three, weed out the nonessential. In line with identifying your purpose in reading something, use the table of contents to isolate the essential chapters. Yesterday I wasted many hours of the day reading a book on concentration, only to discover that the chapters on techniques were profitable. The rest of the book was filler material. Nöw, I'm wiser.
Four, skip the structure. Many words exist in a sentence to hold the sentence together. Focus on key words. When you do a search on a search engine, you use key words to find what you want. Similarly, the human mind processes key words better than whole sentences. Usually more than 60% of any text is merely structure. By focusing on key words, you understand more.
Five, practice speed reading. Reading faster is a skill like any other. The more you practice, the better you get. Reading faster is more than an intellectual skill; it is also a motor skill because you condition your eyes to move efficiently.
Six, condition your speed over time. Set a goal and create a simple plan. Once you get to 200 words per minute, then aim for 250 words per minute, and so on. If you "train" consistently, you will actually be able to read a page a minute. A fit and conditioned runner can do a mile in 4 minutes...a page should be easier.
Seven, expand your vocabulary. The more words you know, the better your comprehension; consequently, the less you pause to figure out what something means. Furthermore, the better your vocabulary, the higher your level of literacy, income, and social influence.
Reading faster does take some effort. However, your results will be worth it. As your knowledge expands, your ïncome will soar and the quality of your life improves.
Alternatively, those who still have an Industrial Age mentality risk becoming obsolete. While we can't slow the brisk pace of modern life, we can prevent the tragedy of falling behind.
About the Author:
Saleem Rana is a psychotherapist in Denver, Colorado. If you would like more information on how to read faster, and understand and remember more of what you read, you can find it at http://theempoweredsoul.com/SelfImprovementBooks/speedreading.html
– By Saleem Rana
The Industrial Age is behind us nöw. Machines can out-produce even the most diligent worker. But no förm of artificial intelligence can match the brilliance of the human mind. Thus, while machines can replace muscle, nothing can replace the brain. So we in the Information Age must sharpen our skills to keep up with the rapid pace of knowledge.
Yet while multimedia presentations are becoming more ubiquitous, reading remains the primary way to learn. It remains an essential skill. The faster you can read, the more you learn. And, of course, the more you learn, the more you can earn.
Yet it isn't enough just to process written information faster; you also have to be able to retain it.
Speed reading appears to be an answer to how you can read faster, understand what you read, and retain more of the information in long term memory.
Hëre are 7 ways you can start speed reading right nöw.
One, relax as you read. The more stressed you are, the less you can retain. A relaxed reader is an attentive reader.
Two, read with a purpose. Before reading, isolate why you are reading, then select those parts of the text or book that gives you that information. Many books have low content because of the need to fill out a two-page theme to book length. Sometimes, too, even with a high content book, you may only be interested in a few chapters.
Three, weed out the nonessential. In line with identifying your purpose in reading something, use the table of contents to isolate the essential chapters. Yesterday I wasted many hours of the day reading a book on concentration, only to discover that the chapters on techniques were profitable. The rest of the book was filler material. Nöw, I'm wiser.
Four, skip the structure. Many words exist in a sentence to hold the sentence together. Focus on key words. When you do a search on a search engine, you use key words to find what you want. Similarly, the human mind processes key words better than whole sentences. Usually more than 60% of any text is merely structure. By focusing on key words, you understand more.
Five, practice speed reading. Reading faster is a skill like any other. The more you practice, the better you get. Reading faster is more than an intellectual skill; it is also a motor skill because you condition your eyes to move efficiently.
Six, condition your speed over time. Set a goal and create a simple plan. Once you get to 200 words per minute, then aim for 250 words per minute, and so on. If you "train" consistently, you will actually be able to read a page a minute. A fit and conditioned runner can do a mile in 4 minutes...a page should be easier.
Seven, expand your vocabulary. The more words you know, the better your comprehension; consequently, the less you pause to figure out what something means. Furthermore, the better your vocabulary, the higher your level of literacy, income, and social influence.
Reading faster does take some effort. However, your results will be worth it. As your knowledge expands, your ïncome will soar and the quality of your life improves.
Alternatively, those who still have an Industrial Age mentality risk becoming obsolete. While we can't slow the brisk pace of modern life, we can prevent the tragedy of falling behind.
About the Author:
Saleem Rana is a psychotherapist in Denver, Colorado. If you would like more information on how to read faster, and understand and remember more of what you read, you can find it at http://theempoweredsoul.com/SelfImprovementBooks/speedreading.html
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Freeing Yourself
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Knowing When To Let Someone Go
Just as a good relationship can have a positive impact on your life, stressful, draining, or imbalanced relationships can have negative effects on your health and well-being. It's common to maintain a relationship because we feel the other person needs us or we believe that they will eventually change. We may also be afraid of hurting the other person or feel insecure in our ability to find new relationships. But knowing when to end a relationship and acknowledging that the pain will pass can often prevent greater pain and feelings of loss in the long run.
If you're in a relationship that isn't satisfying or one that has become unhealthy for you, rather than spending energy attempting to fix the problem or complaining, ask yourself what you really want from the relationship. Consider whether the other person truly considers your feelings or if they are willing to change their behavior. Ask yourself if you've often thought about ending the relationship or if you feel your bonds have atrophied. While every relationship has ups and downs, when there are more downs than ups or the two of you are bringing out the worst in each other, it may be time to sever the connection. Be honest with yourself and your answers, even if the truth is painful.
Relationships thrive on honesty, communication, mutual caring, and time spent together. When one or more of these elements are missing, it may be that the relationship, no matter how passionate, simply isn't worth it. It's far better to end a relationship that doesn't feel right than to hold on to it and languish in feelings of anger or resentment. Moving on without struggle, on the other hand, can be the door that leads you to a more nurturing relationship in the future.
What do you think?
Knowing When To Let Someone Go
Just as a good relationship can have a positive impact on your life, stressful, draining, or imbalanced relationships can have negative effects on your health and well-being. It's common to maintain a relationship because we feel the other person needs us or we believe that they will eventually change. We may also be afraid of hurting the other person or feel insecure in our ability to find new relationships. But knowing when to end a relationship and acknowledging that the pain will pass can often prevent greater pain and feelings of loss in the long run.
If you're in a relationship that isn't satisfying or one that has become unhealthy for you, rather than spending energy attempting to fix the problem or complaining, ask yourself what you really want from the relationship. Consider whether the other person truly considers your feelings or if they are willing to change their behavior. Ask yourself if you've often thought about ending the relationship or if you feel your bonds have atrophied. While every relationship has ups and downs, when there are more downs than ups or the two of you are bringing out the worst in each other, it may be time to sever the connection. Be honest with yourself and your answers, even if the truth is painful.
Relationships thrive on honesty, communication, mutual caring, and time spent together. When one or more of these elements are missing, it may be that the relationship, no matter how passionate, simply isn't worth it. It's far better to end a relationship that doesn't feel right than to hold on to it and languish in feelings of anger or resentment. Moving on without struggle, on the other hand, can be the door that leads you to a more nurturing relationship in the future.
What do you think?
The Top Nine Steps to Set and Achieve Your Goals in 2006
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- By B. SixWise
This month, an estimated 100 million Americans will embark upon a journey to fulfill their New Year's resolutions. The start of the New Year brings an ideal (and popular) time for change, as many are eager to get their lives back into normalcy after the month-long over-eating, over-buying and perhaps, over-socializing binge that often comes with the holiday season.
But New Year's resolutions, as grandiose as they may sound, is really a fancy word for something many avoid for the rest of the year: goals.
Whether it is New Year's or any other time of year, goals are often set and forgotten. But this year can be different. Hëre are the nine most important steps to set your goals properly so you can actually achieve them in 2006.
* Scrutinize your reasoning.
Do you want to start eating better and give up watching TV because someone suggested you should? Or is this something you want for yourself? In order for your goal to become reality, the reason behind it must be an enduring one. If it's not important to you, it will not last.
* Be realistic.
Did you resolve to losë 50 pounds by the end of January, in time for your vacation to the Bahamas? Setting an unrealistic goal is just setting yourself up for failure. A better option? Resolve to losë no more than two pounds a week.
* Only take on what you can handle.
If you bite off more than you can chew--say trying to quit smokïng, losë weïght, get out of dëbt and spend more time with your kids--the stress alone may cause you to give up. Particularly when you are trying to change lifestyle habits, focus on just one goal at a time.
* Be specific.
Rather than setting a vague goal like "exercise more," plan your goal out down to the details. Resolve to "jog 30 minutes on Monday mornings, take a yoga class on Thursdays after work, go to the gym over your lunch hour on Wednesdays," etc.
* Keep it simple.
It's common for people to lump many goals into one, daunting mega-goal. A goal of owning your own restaurant, buying a vacation home in Tahoe and a new home for your parents would fit into this category. Attainable goals are simple ones that take it a step at a time.
* Take action.
Once you have your goal in mind, write it down on paper. Then take the steps necessary to set it into motion. Want to pay off your dëbts, for instance? Figure out how much you can afford to save for this purpose each month, then pick a day to tend to bills each week.
* Keep track of your progress.
Your goal must have a measurable outcome if you are to keep motivated. Do you want to save X dollars a week? Losë X pounds a month? Determine what you are aiming for, then monitor how close you are to getting it.
* Share your goals.
Telling other (supportive!) people about your intentions is an excellent morale booster. These people can encourage you when you get off track and keep you focused on what you're trying to achieve.
* Pat yourself on the back.
Reward yourself for every step you take toward reaching your goal. This is a necessary step to keep yourself feeling motivated and to keep your momentum going. You deserve recognition as you move toward reaching your goals.
About the Author:
This article was provided by the world's # 1 most popular and trusted holistic living e-newsletter -- FRËE to you right nöw at www.SixWise.com! The old way of thinking: "holistic living" pertains only to personal health. The new way of thinking: "holistic living" means prevention of the negative and adherence to the positive in all SIX practical areas of life--relationships, finances, career, home environment, safety and health. With the SixWise.com e-newsletter, you will get holistic wisdom from the world's top experts in all six of these areas--completely FRËE with a simple sign-up (and a guaranteëd no-späm policy!) at http://www.SixWise.com
- By B. SixWise
This month, an estimated 100 million Americans will embark upon a journey to fulfill their New Year's resolutions. The start of the New Year brings an ideal (and popular) time for change, as many are eager to get their lives back into normalcy after the month-long over-eating, over-buying and perhaps, over-socializing binge that often comes with the holiday season.
But New Year's resolutions, as grandiose as they may sound, is really a fancy word for something many avoid for the rest of the year: goals.
Whether it is New Year's or any other time of year, goals are often set and forgotten. But this year can be different. Hëre are the nine most important steps to set your goals properly so you can actually achieve them in 2006.
* Scrutinize your reasoning.
Do you want to start eating better and give up watching TV because someone suggested you should? Or is this something you want for yourself? In order for your goal to become reality, the reason behind it must be an enduring one. If it's not important to you, it will not last.
* Be realistic.
Did you resolve to losë 50 pounds by the end of January, in time for your vacation to the Bahamas? Setting an unrealistic goal is just setting yourself up for failure. A better option? Resolve to losë no more than two pounds a week.
* Only take on what you can handle.
If you bite off more than you can chew--say trying to quit smokïng, losë weïght, get out of dëbt and spend more time with your kids--the stress alone may cause you to give up. Particularly when you are trying to change lifestyle habits, focus on just one goal at a time.
* Be specific.
Rather than setting a vague goal like "exercise more," plan your goal out down to the details. Resolve to "jog 30 minutes on Monday mornings, take a yoga class on Thursdays after work, go to the gym over your lunch hour on Wednesdays," etc.
* Keep it simple.
It's common for people to lump many goals into one, daunting mega-goal. A goal of owning your own restaurant, buying a vacation home in Tahoe and a new home for your parents would fit into this category. Attainable goals are simple ones that take it a step at a time.
* Take action.
Once you have your goal in mind, write it down on paper. Then take the steps necessary to set it into motion. Want to pay off your dëbts, for instance? Figure out how much you can afford to save for this purpose each month, then pick a day to tend to bills each week.
* Keep track of your progress.
Your goal must have a measurable outcome if you are to keep motivated. Do you want to save X dollars a week? Losë X pounds a month? Determine what you are aiming for, then monitor how close you are to getting it.
* Share your goals.
Telling other (supportive!) people about your intentions is an excellent morale booster. These people can encourage you when you get off track and keep you focused on what you're trying to achieve.
* Pat yourself on the back.
Reward yourself for every step you take toward reaching your goal. This is a necessary step to keep yourself feeling motivated and to keep your momentum going. You deserve recognition as you move toward reaching your goals.
About the Author:
This article was provided by the world's # 1 most popular and trusted holistic living e-newsletter -- FRËE to you right nöw at www.SixWise.com! The old way of thinking: "holistic living" pertains only to personal health. The new way of thinking: "holistic living" means prevention of the negative and adherence to the positive in all SIX practical areas of life--relationships, finances, career, home environment, safety and health. With the SixWise.com e-newsletter, you will get holistic wisdom from the world's top experts in all six of these areas--completely FRËE with a simple sign-up (and a guaranteëd no-späm policy!) at http://www.SixWise.com
WHERE THERE'S A WILL, THERE'S A WAY
-------------------------------------------------
You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it come true.
The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you commit yourself to it. If you have the desire, you have the power to attain it.
You can have anything you want in life if you will sacrifice everything else for it. Your dreams can come true if you pursue them.
©2006 by Max Steingart
You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it come true.
The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you commit yourself to it. If you have the desire, you have the power to attain it.
You can have anything you want in life if you will sacrifice everything else for it. Your dreams can come true if you pursue them.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Wave Motion
-------------------------------------------------
Hado
Walking through a Japanese garden, one truly feels the life force energy that is known as Hado. Hado isn't just present in Japan, but it is a concept that has existed in Japan for centuries. The two Japanese characters that make up the word Hado mean "wave" and "move" - perfect words to describe the energy vibrations that permeate all life. Hado is present in all things, animate and inanimate. It resides everywhere, even in the air and in people.
The study of hado tells us that the energetic vibrations from our thoughts affect on our physical realities. Each of us has the ability to manifest a specific intention through the hado that we send out - from making our jewelry shine to changing the atmosphere of a room full of people to transforming the hado of an empty space. However, we are often unaware that our thoughts are creating vibrations in the world outside our minds. Once we know that this is the case, we can become more aware of our negative thinking and train ourselves to stay positive and think with intention.
Giving thanks for a meal before we eat can change the energy of our food. Expressing gratitude by thoughts or words makes a huge difference to both the giver and recipient because you are sending them hado. A kind smile really makes a difference when you work consciously with hado. Once we become aware of the power of hado, we can create positive changes in every area of our lives: our physical space, mental and emotional health, relationships, and businesses. One of the most important principles of hado is to monitor your thoughts and intentions every day. Enjoy the improvements that you will create in your life and the world around you by consciously working with hado.
What do you think?
Hado
Walking through a Japanese garden, one truly feels the life force energy that is known as Hado. Hado isn't just present in Japan, but it is a concept that has existed in Japan for centuries. The two Japanese characters that make up the word Hado mean "wave" and "move" - perfect words to describe the energy vibrations that permeate all life. Hado is present in all things, animate and inanimate. It resides everywhere, even in the air and in people.
The study of hado tells us that the energetic vibrations from our thoughts affect on our physical realities. Each of us has the ability to manifest a specific intention through the hado that we send out - from making our jewelry shine to changing the atmosphere of a room full of people to transforming the hado of an empty space. However, we are often unaware that our thoughts are creating vibrations in the world outside our minds. Once we know that this is the case, we can become more aware of our negative thinking and train ourselves to stay positive and think with intention.
Giving thanks for a meal before we eat can change the energy of our food. Expressing gratitude by thoughts or words makes a huge difference to both the giver and recipient because you are sending them hado. A kind smile really makes a difference when you work consciously with hado. Once we become aware of the power of hado, we can create positive changes in every area of our lives: our physical space, mental and emotional health, relationships, and businesses. One of the most important principles of hado is to monitor your thoughts and intentions every day. Enjoy the improvements that you will create in your life and the world around you by consciously working with hado.
What do you think?
Seven Keys to Prosperity According to the Highly Prosperous
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– By Ridgely Goldsborough
I have a most unique job. I interview self-made, very wealthy individuals who all came from modest backgrounds, about the principles of prosperity, success and wealth accumulation. I then pass the information onto you, in writing, on CD or DVD, so that you can choose, if you wish, to apply those same principles. It’s a fascinating and enlightening process, one that nevër ceases to surprise and amaze me.
Hëre are the seven most common keys that came up repeatedly in interviews conducted in 2005, along with a prosperity tip for each one that may help you apply them:
1. The Power of Imprints.
Perhaps most surprising was the repeated importance of the parental or familiar imprint. Not some, but all of the individuals interviewed had at least one strong influence from a family member that made a powerful imprint on their ability to manifest prosperity later in life--ranging from an understanding of monëy to the value of discipline to open-mindedness toward new ideas and more. Obviously, this poses a bit of a challenge for those of us (myself included) who did not have such a positive imprint.
Prosperity Tip #1--Get the imprint nöw by immersing yourself in prosperity consciousness. Listen to tapes and CDs, sign up for financial newsletters on the internet, attend seminars. It will take time, yet the ability to change our mindset is available to all of us. If you have impressionable children, you might consider including them in the process.
2. The Necessity of Passion.
The message “do what you love” came through loud and clear--though not necessarily for the most obvious, life-enjoyment reasons. Each of the interviewees described the inevitable challenges that come with any great accomplishment and the need to overcome them. In the face of the most daunting circumstances, only a true passion for the undertaking will give us the resiliency when knocked down and a sufficient desire to endure long enough to reach our target goals.
Prosperity Tip #2--Dig within yourself and find what truly gets your juices flowing. What causes your internal metabolism to speed up at the very thought of it? What brings a natural smile and an innate energy? Discover it, uncover it and go after it.
3. Undying Tenacity.
Napoleon Hill in his bestseller "Think and Grow Rich" stated: “The majority of people are ready to throw their aims and purposes overboard, and give up at the first sign of opposition or misfortune. A few carry on despite all opposition, until they attain their goal. These few are the Fords, Carnegies, Rockefellers and Edisons. There may be no heroic connotation to the word ‘persistence,’ but the quality is to the character of man what carbon is to steel.” Enough said. Everyone interviewed echoed the sentiment. As one gentleman stated, “I’ll take staying power over brain power every day of the week.”
Prosperity Tip #3--Complete all tasks large and small and build the “Completion Muscle.” Use the small tasks as the training ground for finishing the largër ones. Over time, tenacity and perseverance will become second nature.
4. Mentorship and Guidance.
In addition to the familiar imprint, the highly successful seek continuous counsel from those who have walked the walk before them. They network continuously and expand their circles of influence. Early on, the majority had not one but several mentors that helped shape their careers and businesses.
Prosperity Tip #4--We choose our mentors. Even those we do not have direct access to can often be found at the library, in the bookstore or on the Internet. And, don’t be afraid to ask. Most wealthy people feel a strong sense of obligatïon to pay back. You’ll be surprised how many of them will gladly offer their support.
5. Asking for the Sale.
Perhaps most unexpected for me, in discussing what was the single greatest impediment to success and wealth accumulation, the answer was consistent and strongly stated: people don’t ask for the sale. It doesn’t matter how good the presentation or the product is; in the end, we must ask for the sale. If we market a good product or service at a fair price, then we owe it to ourselves and to all consumers to put that product into the marketplace. No one will beat down our door to find anything. We must learn to ask for the sale.
Prosperity Tip #5--We sell ourselves every day. We sell our spouses on putting up with us, our children on tolerating us, our friends and colleagues on liking us every day. Instead of talking, practice the art of silence. Make a small request and shut up--not another word. Let the other person respond. You’ll be amazëd at how effective this is to get a “yes.” Then apply the same lesson to your enterprise.
6. The Lessons of History.
Most rich people collect things. When asked why, they responded that collectibles contain inherent history. Behind every piece is a memory or a person that teaches a life lesson. Even though financial transactions travel largely through the ethers, collectibles convey tangible, historical messages, and we all know that history repeats itself.
Prosperity Tip #6--Start a collection and educate yourself about each item you collect. Coins, paperweights, teacups, stamps, sports memorabilia, antiques, anything--all carry with them a piece of the human experience. It doesn’t cost a lot of monëy and you can choose a collection you will truly enjoy.
7. Philanthropy and Reward.
“Give and ye shall receive” and other often-quoted sayings apply. There is a definite karmic connection between inflow and outflow. Even anonymous gifts have a way of circling fortune back to the giver. As one gentleman who has increased his yearly donations by significant amounts every year for the past decade shared with me: “I don’t know how it works. What I do know is that every year I give more and every year I am exponentially more prosperous--and that’s all I need to know.”
Prosperity Tip #7--Give. It’s that simple. Find a cause to support and support it.
I realize that any one of these Seven Keys merits a full exploration, so hëre’s a suggestion. Pick a couple to use this year and embrace them. Then pick a couple more. Before you know it, you’ll be the person I interview!!!
About the Author:
Ridgely Goldsborough is the creator of Modest To Millïons, an ongoing study of the principles of prosperity according to the ultra-successful. He offers a fantastic introductory package that includes full-length interviews of these individuals and can be reviewed absolutely FRËE for 30 days for all members of SelfGrowth.com. Clïck on this link to find out how you can get your own Prosperity Package, risk-frëe: http://www.modesttomillions.com/selfgrowth.html
– By Ridgely Goldsborough
I have a most unique job. I interview self-made, very wealthy individuals who all came from modest backgrounds, about the principles of prosperity, success and wealth accumulation. I then pass the information onto you, in writing, on CD or DVD, so that you can choose, if you wish, to apply those same principles. It’s a fascinating and enlightening process, one that nevër ceases to surprise and amaze me.
Hëre are the seven most common keys that came up repeatedly in interviews conducted in 2005, along with a prosperity tip for each one that may help you apply them:
1. The Power of Imprints.
Perhaps most surprising was the repeated importance of the parental or familiar imprint. Not some, but all of the individuals interviewed had at least one strong influence from a family member that made a powerful imprint on their ability to manifest prosperity later in life--ranging from an understanding of monëy to the value of discipline to open-mindedness toward new ideas and more. Obviously, this poses a bit of a challenge for those of us (myself included) who did not have such a positive imprint.
Prosperity Tip #1--Get the imprint nöw by immersing yourself in prosperity consciousness. Listen to tapes and CDs, sign up for financial newsletters on the internet, attend seminars. It will take time, yet the ability to change our mindset is available to all of us. If you have impressionable children, you might consider including them in the process.
2. The Necessity of Passion.
The message “do what you love” came through loud and clear--though not necessarily for the most obvious, life-enjoyment reasons. Each of the interviewees described the inevitable challenges that come with any great accomplishment and the need to overcome them. In the face of the most daunting circumstances, only a true passion for the undertaking will give us the resiliency when knocked down and a sufficient desire to endure long enough to reach our target goals.
Prosperity Tip #2--Dig within yourself and find what truly gets your juices flowing. What causes your internal metabolism to speed up at the very thought of it? What brings a natural smile and an innate energy? Discover it, uncover it and go after it.
3. Undying Tenacity.
Napoleon Hill in his bestseller "Think and Grow Rich" stated: “The majority of people are ready to throw their aims and purposes overboard, and give up at the first sign of opposition or misfortune. A few carry on despite all opposition, until they attain their goal. These few are the Fords, Carnegies, Rockefellers and Edisons. There may be no heroic connotation to the word ‘persistence,’ but the quality is to the character of man what carbon is to steel.” Enough said. Everyone interviewed echoed the sentiment. As one gentleman stated, “I’ll take staying power over brain power every day of the week.”
Prosperity Tip #3--Complete all tasks large and small and build the “Completion Muscle.” Use the small tasks as the training ground for finishing the largër ones. Over time, tenacity and perseverance will become second nature.
4. Mentorship and Guidance.
In addition to the familiar imprint, the highly successful seek continuous counsel from those who have walked the walk before them. They network continuously and expand their circles of influence. Early on, the majority had not one but several mentors that helped shape their careers and businesses.
Prosperity Tip #4--We choose our mentors. Even those we do not have direct access to can often be found at the library, in the bookstore or on the Internet. And, don’t be afraid to ask. Most wealthy people feel a strong sense of obligatïon to pay back. You’ll be surprised how many of them will gladly offer their support.
5. Asking for the Sale.
Perhaps most unexpected for me, in discussing what was the single greatest impediment to success and wealth accumulation, the answer was consistent and strongly stated: people don’t ask for the sale. It doesn’t matter how good the presentation or the product is; in the end, we must ask for the sale. If we market a good product or service at a fair price, then we owe it to ourselves and to all consumers to put that product into the marketplace. No one will beat down our door to find anything. We must learn to ask for the sale.
Prosperity Tip #5--We sell ourselves every day. We sell our spouses on putting up with us, our children on tolerating us, our friends and colleagues on liking us every day. Instead of talking, practice the art of silence. Make a small request and shut up--not another word. Let the other person respond. You’ll be amazëd at how effective this is to get a “yes.” Then apply the same lesson to your enterprise.
6. The Lessons of History.
Most rich people collect things. When asked why, they responded that collectibles contain inherent history. Behind every piece is a memory or a person that teaches a life lesson. Even though financial transactions travel largely through the ethers, collectibles convey tangible, historical messages, and we all know that history repeats itself.
Prosperity Tip #6--Start a collection and educate yourself about each item you collect. Coins, paperweights, teacups, stamps, sports memorabilia, antiques, anything--all carry with them a piece of the human experience. It doesn’t cost a lot of monëy and you can choose a collection you will truly enjoy.
7. Philanthropy and Reward.
“Give and ye shall receive” and other often-quoted sayings apply. There is a definite karmic connection between inflow and outflow. Even anonymous gifts have a way of circling fortune back to the giver. As one gentleman who has increased his yearly donations by significant amounts every year for the past decade shared with me: “I don’t know how it works. What I do know is that every year I give more and every year I am exponentially more prosperous--and that’s all I need to know.”
Prosperity Tip #7--Give. It’s that simple. Find a cause to support and support it.
I realize that any one of these Seven Keys merits a full exploration, so hëre’s a suggestion. Pick a couple to use this year and embrace them. Then pick a couple more. Before you know it, you’ll be the person I interview!!!
About the Author:
Ridgely Goldsborough is the creator of Modest To Millïons, an ongoing study of the principles of prosperity according to the ultra-successful. He offers a fantastic introductory package that includes full-length interviews of these individuals and can be reviewed absolutely FRËE for 30 days for all members of SelfGrowth.com. Clïck on this link to find out how you can get your own Prosperity Package, risk-frëe: http://www.modesttomillions.com/selfgrowth.html
YOU MUST DREAM BIG AND THINK BIG TO BE BIG
-----------------------------------------------
High expectation always precedes high achievement. You're as small as your controlling desires, or as great as your dominant aspirations.
Once your mind stretches to a new idea it never goes back to its original dimensions. Think little goals and you can expect little achievement. Think big goals and you'll win big success.
The first ingredient of your success is to dream a great dream.
©2006 by Max Steingart
High expectation always precedes high achievement. You're as small as your controlling desires, or as great as your dominant aspirations.
Once your mind stretches to a new idea it never goes back to its original dimensions. Think little goals and you can expect little achievement. Think big goals and you'll win big success.
The first ingredient of your success is to dream a great dream.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Monday, January 23, 2006
Do Unto Others
------------------------------------------------
The Golden Rule
All over the world, there exists a simple precept that, when followed, has the power to end conflict and banish strife. It is the Golden Rule, a key concept in many philosophies and spiritualities that admonishes us to "do unto others as we would have them do unto us." Its meaning is clear: treat others only in ways that you would want to be treated. However, the golden rule is not always easy to follow. It can be a challenge to honor others as we wish to be honored. Yet, when we do so, we bestow a gift of loving kindness on our fellow human beings. And, in honoring others, we honor ourselves.
It is as uncomplicated a tenet as one could wish for. When we live by it, harming another person becomes nearly impossible. The Golden Rule is rooted in pure empathy and does not compel us to perform any specific act. Rather, it gently guides us to never let our actions toward others be out of harmony with our own desires. The Golden Rule asks us to be aware of the effect our words and actions may have on another person and to imagine ourselves in their place. It calls on us to ask ourselves how we would feel if what we were about to do were directed toward us. And yet this rule invites us to do more than not harm others. It suggests that we look for opportunities to behave toward others in the same ways that we would want others to act toward us. Showing compassion, being considerate of others, caring for the less fortunate, and giving generously are what can result when you follow the Golden Rule.
Adhering to the Golden Rule whenever possible can have a positive effect on the world around you because kindness begets kindness. In doing so, you generate a flow of positive energy that enfolds everyone you encounter in peace, goodwill, and harmony.
What do you think?
The Golden Rule
All over the world, there exists a simple precept that, when followed, has the power to end conflict and banish strife. It is the Golden Rule, a key concept in many philosophies and spiritualities that admonishes us to "do unto others as we would have them do unto us." Its meaning is clear: treat others only in ways that you would want to be treated. However, the golden rule is not always easy to follow. It can be a challenge to honor others as we wish to be honored. Yet, when we do so, we bestow a gift of loving kindness on our fellow human beings. And, in honoring others, we honor ourselves.
It is as uncomplicated a tenet as one could wish for. When we live by it, harming another person becomes nearly impossible. The Golden Rule is rooted in pure empathy and does not compel us to perform any specific act. Rather, it gently guides us to never let our actions toward others be out of harmony with our own desires. The Golden Rule asks us to be aware of the effect our words and actions may have on another person and to imagine ourselves in their place. It calls on us to ask ourselves how we would feel if what we were about to do were directed toward us. And yet this rule invites us to do more than not harm others. It suggests that we look for opportunities to behave toward others in the same ways that we would want others to act toward us. Showing compassion, being considerate of others, caring for the less fortunate, and giving generously are what can result when you follow the Golden Rule.
Adhering to the Golden Rule whenever possible can have a positive effect on the world around you because kindness begets kindness. In doing so, you generate a flow of positive energy that enfolds everyone you encounter in peace, goodwill, and harmony.
What do you think?
Learn New Vocabulary With Ease
------------------------------------------------
– By Alan Pritt
When I was at school my worst subjects were foreign languages. It was compulsory to study Spanish and French, but I just couldn’t. I remember at the end of three years I took a Spanish test and scored 2.5 percent! I basically hadn’t learnt a thing in those three years. And it wasn’t for want of trying. I would work for hours on my homework but not get anywhere. It would take me an hour of repetitive drills to take in five or fewer new words. My progress was very slow, and I would quickly forget what I’d spent so long learning.
Ten years on and things have changed. One of the things that has really helped me make progress recently is a strategy for learning vocabulary. Nöw it takes me less than a minute per word -- and I’m getting quicker.
Vocabulary is particularly difficult to memorize because it is so abstract and there is little connection between the word and its meaning. The connection does not exist in reality but is formed in our heads. This makes it difficult to memorize. However, with a bit of creative imagination and a clear strategy, we can make the task easier.
It is important to understand that vocabulary cannot really be understood properly using a dictionary definition. Dictionaries are useful, but words evolve from being used in different situations and contexts. So before you really understand a new word, you’re going to have to use it in a variety of contexts.
That part, however, will happen naturally as you begin to use the words more and more. Our major concern, then, is to plant that original seed of memory.
To do this we need to do two things. First we need to make sure we have properly perceived the word, and then we need to connect it with something we already know.
* Perceiving the word
It’s easy to just glaze over a new word and not really take it in. Just knowing a word enough to recognize it later is not enough; we need to really know what it sounds like and how it is spelled.
This is done in two ways: phonetically and visually.
For the phonetic part:
- Read the word.
- Look away from the page and say it aloud.
- Chëck that you have said it correctly.
For the visual part:
- Look at the spelling
- Close your eyes
- Visualize each letter
- Say the spelling out loud
- Say the spelling again, but in reverse order. (This confirms that you have learned it visually and not just phonetically.)
- Open your eyes and chëck that you spelled it correctly.
If you can do that, you know the word really well.
* Committing it to memory
Nöw that you know the word, the next task is to connect that word to what you already know. To do this we need to turn the word into a memorable image in your imagination.
This will be best explained with an example. Imagine you are trying to learn the German word ‘sogar’ (an adverb meaning ‘even’).
Consider what the new word reminds you of that can be easily visualized. Try to pick the first thing that comes into your head because when you re-encounter the word, you’re likely to think the same way again.
So the first thing that comes to my mind when I see the word ‘sogar’ is sugar. As a word, it looks practically the same. This is great. It’s easy to visualize a pile of sugar. So the first connection has been made.
Nöw we need to connect it to the translation – ‘even.’ To do this I simply imagine pouring the sugar onto a pair of scales in EVEN amounts.
Visualize this vividly enough, and you should find it easy to remember.
It’s a simple concept, but it may take awhile to master. Other vocabulary is going to be more difficult to translate into an image than this word. But it can be done with any word. The more you practice, the more you’ll improve, and the easier it will get.
Once you have memorized a word, you still don’t really know it. To really understand the word you will have to use it in context in everyday language. Fortunately this is a natural process of using the language, and not something you should train specifically. As you discover the word again and again, it will gradually become ingrained in your memory.
About the Author:
Alan Pritt is a freelance researcher in the field of intelligence building, thinking strategies, problem solving skills and memory enhancement. More articles and a frëe newsletter can be found at http://www.ImproveHumanIQ.com
This article is copyright © 2004, Alan Pritt. All Rights Reserved. You may republish this article as long as you do so in its entirety and you include this message and the above biographical information.
– By Alan Pritt
When I was at school my worst subjects were foreign languages. It was compulsory to study Spanish and French, but I just couldn’t. I remember at the end of three years I took a Spanish test and scored 2.5 percent! I basically hadn’t learnt a thing in those three years. And it wasn’t for want of trying. I would work for hours on my homework but not get anywhere. It would take me an hour of repetitive drills to take in five or fewer new words. My progress was very slow, and I would quickly forget what I’d spent so long learning.
Ten years on and things have changed. One of the things that has really helped me make progress recently is a strategy for learning vocabulary. Nöw it takes me less than a minute per word -- and I’m getting quicker.
Vocabulary is particularly difficult to memorize because it is so abstract and there is little connection between the word and its meaning. The connection does not exist in reality but is formed in our heads. This makes it difficult to memorize. However, with a bit of creative imagination and a clear strategy, we can make the task easier.
It is important to understand that vocabulary cannot really be understood properly using a dictionary definition. Dictionaries are useful, but words evolve from being used in different situations and contexts. So before you really understand a new word, you’re going to have to use it in a variety of contexts.
That part, however, will happen naturally as you begin to use the words more and more. Our major concern, then, is to plant that original seed of memory.
To do this we need to do two things. First we need to make sure we have properly perceived the word, and then we need to connect it with something we already know.
* Perceiving the word
It’s easy to just glaze over a new word and not really take it in. Just knowing a word enough to recognize it later is not enough; we need to really know what it sounds like and how it is spelled.
This is done in two ways: phonetically and visually.
For the phonetic part:
- Read the word.
- Look away from the page and say it aloud.
- Chëck that you have said it correctly.
For the visual part:
- Look at the spelling
- Close your eyes
- Visualize each letter
- Say the spelling out loud
- Say the spelling again, but in reverse order. (This confirms that you have learned it visually and not just phonetically.)
- Open your eyes and chëck that you spelled it correctly.
If you can do that, you know the word really well.
* Committing it to memory
Nöw that you know the word, the next task is to connect that word to what you already know. To do this we need to turn the word into a memorable image in your imagination.
This will be best explained with an example. Imagine you are trying to learn the German word ‘sogar’ (an adverb meaning ‘even’).
Consider what the new word reminds you of that can be easily visualized. Try to pick the first thing that comes into your head because when you re-encounter the word, you’re likely to think the same way again.
So the first thing that comes to my mind when I see the word ‘sogar’ is sugar. As a word, it looks practically the same. This is great. It’s easy to visualize a pile of sugar. So the first connection has been made.
Nöw we need to connect it to the translation – ‘even.’ To do this I simply imagine pouring the sugar onto a pair of scales in EVEN amounts.
Visualize this vividly enough, and you should find it easy to remember.
It’s a simple concept, but it may take awhile to master. Other vocabulary is going to be more difficult to translate into an image than this word. But it can be done with any word. The more you practice, the more you’ll improve, and the easier it will get.
Once you have memorized a word, you still don’t really know it. To really understand the word you will have to use it in context in everyday language. Fortunately this is a natural process of using the language, and not something you should train specifically. As you discover the word again and again, it will gradually become ingrained in your memory.
About the Author:
Alan Pritt is a freelance researcher in the field of intelligence building, thinking strategies, problem solving skills and memory enhancement. More articles and a frëe newsletter can be found at http://www.ImproveHumanIQ.com
This article is copyright © 2004, Alan Pritt. All Rights Reserved. You may republish this article as long as you do so in its entirety and you include this message and the above biographical information.
THERE ARE NO SHORT CUTS TO SUCCESS
------------------------------------------------
There's a price to pay if you want to make things better, and a price to pay for just leaving things as they are.
Whatever you want in life, you must give up something to get it. The greater the value, the greater the sacrifice required of you.
Nothing worthwhile ever comes easily. Work, continuous work and hard work, is the only way to accomplish results that last. Use your imagination more than your memory to achieve success.
There is no success at bargain basement prices. Everything has a price.
©2006 by Max Steingart
There's a price to pay if you want to make things better, and a price to pay for just leaving things as they are.
Whatever you want in life, you must give up something to get it. The greater the value, the greater the sacrifice required of you.
Nothing worthwhile ever comes easily. Work, continuous work and hard work, is the only way to accomplish results that last. Use your imagination more than your memory to achieve success.
There is no success at bargain basement prices. Everything has a price.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Friday, January 20, 2006
The World In A Bright Light
-------------------------------------------------
Grateful
Everyday is a blessing, and in each moment there are many things that we can be grateful for. The world opens up to us when we live in a space of gratitude. In essence, gratitude has a snowball effect. When we are appreciative and express that gratitude, the universe glows a bit brighter and showers us with even more blessings.
There is always something to be grateful for, even when life seems hard. When times are tough, whether we are having a bad day or stuck in what may feel like an endless rut, it can be difficult to take the time to feel grateful. Yet, that is when gratitude can be most important. If we can look at our lives, during periods of challenge, and find something to be grateful for, then we can transform our realities in an instant. There are blessings to be found everywhere. When we are focusing on what is negative, our abundance can be easy to miss. Instead, choosing to find what already exists in our lives that we can appreciate can change what we see in our world. We start to notice one blessing, and then another.
When we constantly choose to be grateful, we notice that every breath is a miracle and each smile becomes a gift. We begin to understand that difficulties are also invaluable lessons. The sun is always shining for us when we are grateful, even if it is hidden behind clouds on a rainy day. A simple sandwich becomes a feast, and a trinket is transformed into a treasure. Living in a state of gratitude allows us to spread our abundance because that is the energy that we emanate from our beings. Because the world reflects back to us what we embody, the additional blessings that inevitably flow our way give us even more to be grateful for. The universe wants to shower us with blessings. The more we appreciate life, the more life appreciates and bestows us with more goodness.
What do you think?
Grateful
Everyday is a blessing, and in each moment there are many things that we can be grateful for. The world opens up to us when we live in a space of gratitude. In essence, gratitude has a snowball effect. When we are appreciative and express that gratitude, the universe glows a bit brighter and showers us with even more blessings.
There is always something to be grateful for, even when life seems hard. When times are tough, whether we are having a bad day or stuck in what may feel like an endless rut, it can be difficult to take the time to feel grateful. Yet, that is when gratitude can be most important. If we can look at our lives, during periods of challenge, and find something to be grateful for, then we can transform our realities in an instant. There are blessings to be found everywhere. When we are focusing on what is negative, our abundance can be easy to miss. Instead, choosing to find what already exists in our lives that we can appreciate can change what we see in our world. We start to notice one blessing, and then another.
When we constantly choose to be grateful, we notice that every breath is a miracle and each smile becomes a gift. We begin to understand that difficulties are also invaluable lessons. The sun is always shining for us when we are grateful, even if it is hidden behind clouds on a rainy day. A simple sandwich becomes a feast, and a trinket is transformed into a treasure. Living in a state of gratitude allows us to spread our abundance because that is the energy that we emanate from our beings. Because the world reflects back to us what we embody, the additional blessings that inevitably flow our way give us even more to be grateful for. The universe wants to shower us with blessings. The more we appreciate life, the more life appreciates and bestows us with more goodness.
What do you think?
I Wanted To Change The World
-------------------------------------------------
- By Unknown Monk, 1100 A.D.
When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world.
I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation.
When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family.
Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.
- By Unknown Monk, 1100 A.D.
When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world.
I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation.
When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family.
Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.
OPPORTUNITY IS ALL AROUND YOU
------------------------------------------------
The people that really succeed in the world are the people who look for the circumstances they want. And, if they can't find them, they make them.
The lure of the distant and the difficult can be deceptive. The great opportunity in your life is where you are right now. Properly perceived, every situation can become an opportunity for you.
Your destiny isn't a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice. It's not something you wait for, but rather something you achieve with effort.
You're surrounded by opportunity, but things won't turn up in this world until you turn them up.
©2006 by Max Steingart
The people that really succeed in the world are the people who look for the circumstances they want. And, if they can't find them, they make them.
The lure of the distant and the difficult can be deceptive. The great opportunity in your life is where you are right now. Properly perceived, every situation can become an opportunity for you.
Your destiny isn't a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice. It's not something you wait for, but rather something you achieve with effort.
You're surrounded by opportunity, but things won't turn up in this world until you turn them up.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Wild Wisdom
-------------------------------------------------
Animals As Teachers
Since prehistoric times, animals have acted as companions to humans on their journey toward enlightenment. Animals as disparate in character as house pets, birds, sea creatures, and insects have been our mentors, teachers, and guides. There is much we can learn from animals, as they offer us the unique opportunity to transcend the human perspective. Unlike human teachers, animals can only impart their wisdom by example, and we learn from them by observation. An animal teacher can be a beloved pet or an animal in the wild. You may even find yourself noticing the animals in your backyard. Even robins and bumblebees have lessons to share with you.
Animals teach us in a variety of ways about behavior, habit, and instinct. House pets embody an unconditional love that remains unchanged in the face of our shape, size, age, race, or gender. They care little for the differences between us and them and simply enjoy loving and being loved. Our pets encourage us to let our guards down, have fun, and take advantage of every opportunity to enjoy life. You can also learn lessons from the animals you encounter in the wild if you take the time to observe their habits. Cold-blooded animals show us adaptability and sensitivity to one's environment. Mammals serve as examples of nurturing and playfulness. Animals that live in oceans, lakes, and rivers demonstrate the value of movement and grace. It is even possible to learn from insects that live in highly structured communities that everyone plays a vital role.
Animals teach us about life, death, survival, sacrifice, and responsibility. If you find yourself drawn to a particular animal, ask yourself which of its traits you find most intriguing and think about how you might mimic those traits. Think of what you might learn from observing the little bird on your windowsill or the mosquito buzzing around a picnic table. Animals express themselves with abandon, freedom, and integrity. It's natural to be drawn to the wisdom offered by our animal teachers, and in doing so, discover what is natural and true within you.
What do you think?
Animals As Teachers
Since prehistoric times, animals have acted as companions to humans on their journey toward enlightenment. Animals as disparate in character as house pets, birds, sea creatures, and insects have been our mentors, teachers, and guides. There is much we can learn from animals, as they offer us the unique opportunity to transcend the human perspective. Unlike human teachers, animals can only impart their wisdom by example, and we learn from them by observation. An animal teacher can be a beloved pet or an animal in the wild. You may even find yourself noticing the animals in your backyard. Even robins and bumblebees have lessons to share with you.
Animals teach us in a variety of ways about behavior, habit, and instinct. House pets embody an unconditional love that remains unchanged in the face of our shape, size, age, race, or gender. They care little for the differences between us and them and simply enjoy loving and being loved. Our pets encourage us to let our guards down, have fun, and take advantage of every opportunity to enjoy life. You can also learn lessons from the animals you encounter in the wild if you take the time to observe their habits. Cold-blooded animals show us adaptability and sensitivity to one's environment. Mammals serve as examples of nurturing and playfulness. Animals that live in oceans, lakes, and rivers demonstrate the value of movement and grace. It is even possible to learn from insects that live in highly structured communities that everyone plays a vital role.
Animals teach us about life, death, survival, sacrifice, and responsibility. If you find yourself drawn to a particular animal, ask yourself which of its traits you find most intriguing and think about how you might mimic those traits. Think of what you might learn from observing the little bird on your windowsill or the mosquito buzzing around a picnic table. Animals express themselves with abandon, freedom, and integrity. It's natural to be drawn to the wisdom offered by our animal teachers, and in doing so, discover what is natural and true within you.
What do you think?
Things Aren't Always What They Seem
-------------------------------------------------
- Author Unknown
Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it.
When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, "Things aren't always what they seem".
The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest. When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel "how could you have let this happen!? The first man had everything, yet you helped him," she accused. "The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let their cow die."
"Things aren't always what they seem," the older angel replied.
"When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it. Then last night as we slept in the farmer's bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I told him to take the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem."
Sometimes this is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way we think they should. Just trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You might not realize it until much later.
- Author Unknown
- Author Unknown
Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it.
When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, "Things aren't always what they seem".
The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest. When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel "how could you have let this happen!? The first man had everything, yet you helped him," she accused. "The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let their cow die."
"Things aren't always what they seem," the older angel replied.
"When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it. Then last night as we slept in the farmer's bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I told him to take the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem."
Sometimes this is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way we think they should. Just trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You might not realize it until much later.
- Author Unknown
DO ALL THINGS WITH LOVE
-----------------------------------------------
Love is the most important ingredient of life. Your life echoes emptiness without it. With it, your life vibrates meaning and warmth. Love will shine through even in hardship.
You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments that stand out, the moments when you have really lived, are the moments when you have done things in a spirit of love.
If you have it, you don't need to have anything else. And if you don't have it, it doesn't much matter what else you have.
Treasure the love you receive above everything else. It will survive long after your wealth and good health have vanished. The way is not in the sky. The way is in the heart.
Life in abundance comes only through great love.
©2005 by Max Steingart
Love is the most important ingredient of life. Your life echoes emptiness without it. With it, your life vibrates meaning and warmth. Love will shine through even in hardship.
You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments that stand out, the moments when you have really lived, are the moments when you have done things in a spirit of love.
If you have it, you don't need to have anything else. And if you don't have it, it doesn't much matter what else you have.
Treasure the love you receive above everything else. It will survive long after your wealth and good health have vanished. The way is not in the sky. The way is in the heart.
Life in abundance comes only through great love.
©2005 by Max Steingart
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Intimate Reflections
--------------------------------------------------
Soul Seeing
When we want to see deeply into the heart and mind of another person, soul seeing, also called soul gazing, allows us to see their soul. The soul is the purest expression of an individual and is not bound by physical forms or fleeting emotions. Through a simple art that involves looking deeply into a partner's eyes, soul seeing can show you a person's inner beauty that you might otherwise miss. It is possible for someone who appears cold to have a warm, giving, nurturing soul or someone of average appearance to have a beautiful soul. Soul seeing is a way of looking past shapes, sizes, attitudes, and behavior to see the real individual that lies beneath the surface. It allows you to see the true essence of another person, the radiance of their being, and their spirit within.
Soul seeing is accomplished by sitting face to face with another person. It is helpful to first state your intention before you begin. As you stare softly into each other's eyes without stopping to look away, each of your souls is revealed to the other. Try not to look for anything in particular or seek traits you're hoping to find. Simply let the other person's soul reveal itself to you. After twenty minutes have passed, stay where you are and share a period of silent reflection with your partner for two minutes. You may have suddenly seen your partner's inner nature as clearly as a bright day, or you may need to meditate on your experience before you feel comfortable with your impressions. Either way, soul seeing can be a wonderfully intimate and shared experience.
So little of who each of us is can be captured by our appearance or personality. The thoughts, fears, desires, and longings that are part of what makes us whole are not always written across our faces. Often, the most surprising thing you may learn while soul seeing is that while you and the other person may appear on the surface to be quite different, you actually share many of the same inner qualities. And then there is the unique beauty that resides within that is longing to be revealed to another who is willing to see. Soul seeing can help you experience the people in your life as they truly are, beyond any mental barriers or physical limitations.
What do you think?
Soul Seeing
When we want to see deeply into the heart and mind of another person, soul seeing, also called soul gazing, allows us to see their soul. The soul is the purest expression of an individual and is not bound by physical forms or fleeting emotions. Through a simple art that involves looking deeply into a partner's eyes, soul seeing can show you a person's inner beauty that you might otherwise miss. It is possible for someone who appears cold to have a warm, giving, nurturing soul or someone of average appearance to have a beautiful soul. Soul seeing is a way of looking past shapes, sizes, attitudes, and behavior to see the real individual that lies beneath the surface. It allows you to see the true essence of another person, the radiance of their being, and their spirit within.
Soul seeing is accomplished by sitting face to face with another person. It is helpful to first state your intention before you begin. As you stare softly into each other's eyes without stopping to look away, each of your souls is revealed to the other. Try not to look for anything in particular or seek traits you're hoping to find. Simply let the other person's soul reveal itself to you. After twenty minutes have passed, stay where you are and share a period of silent reflection with your partner for two minutes. You may have suddenly seen your partner's inner nature as clearly as a bright day, or you may need to meditate on your experience before you feel comfortable with your impressions. Either way, soul seeing can be a wonderfully intimate and shared experience.
So little of who each of us is can be captured by our appearance or personality. The thoughts, fears, desires, and longings that are part of what makes us whole are not always written across our faces. Often, the most surprising thing you may learn while soul seeing is that while you and the other person may appear on the surface to be quite different, you actually share many of the same inner qualities. And then there is the unique beauty that resides within that is longing to be revealed to another who is willing to see. Soul seeing can help you experience the people in your life as they truly are, beyond any mental barriers or physical limitations.
What do you think?
Friendship: It's a Special Relationship
– Robert E. Alberti, Ph.D., and Michael L. Emmons, Ph.D.
----------------------------------------------------
There is no relationship quite like that of friendship. Not so irrational as love yet far more intense than acquaintance, friendship is perhaps the least understood of human interactions.
Actual knowledge about friendship continues to be sketchy at best. Yet some popular wisdom is useful in examining the bond between friends:
* Friends have some interests in common.
* Friends share an on-going relationship, with periodic (although not necessarily regular) contact.
* Friends trust one another, at least to some extent, with information, monëy, safety and other relationships.
* Friends can say "no" to each other and still remain friends.
* Friends can see, and accept, the worst in each other.
* Friends rarely feel they "owe" each other anything; give and take is without obligatïon between them (perhaps with some limits!).
* Friendship is also characterized by understanding, communication, acceptance, lack of embarrassment, trust.
Friendship is held within us, an attitude toward another person much like love, anger or prejudice. It requires no regular outward expression. It requires merely a feeling of commitment to the relationship.
Often such a feeling is supported by the belief that the other person cares about you, that the other values the relationship as well. If we believe that we are important to each other--important enough that we think of each other warmly nöw and again-- we will likely remain friends, even if we don't see each other for years.
We suggest that if you act assertively most of the time, you are more likely to have satisfying relationships than if you act in nonassertive or aggressive ways. We offer these assertive skills when developing a friendship:
* Take the risks necessary to build an acquaintance into a friend.
* Allow yourself to be seen as you are by your friend.
* Share something of yourself you would not ordinarily tell someone else.
* Be spontaneous with your new friend, suggest an activity on the spur of the moment, really listen to what is important in your friend's life.
* Ask your friend's advice with a problem or help with a project (remembering that an assertive friend can say "no" and still like you!).
* Simply tell the person you like him/her.
* Clear the air between you; if you are annoyed or suspect that your friend may be, bring it up.
* Get honest. Don't let assumptions define your relationship. If the relationship can't handle it, it probably would not have lasted anyway. If it can, you'll be miles ahead!
About the Author:
Adapted from "Your Perfect Right: Assertiveness and Equality in Your Life and Relationships," by Robert E. Alberti, Ph.D., and Michael L. Emmons, Ph.D. Available at online and local bookstores or directly from Impact Publishers, Inc., PO Box 6016, Atascadero, CA 93423-6016, http://www.bibliotherapy.com or phöne 1-800-246-7228
----------------------------------------------------
There is no relationship quite like that of friendship. Not so irrational as love yet far more intense than acquaintance, friendship is perhaps the least understood of human interactions.
Actual knowledge about friendship continues to be sketchy at best. Yet some popular wisdom is useful in examining the bond between friends:
* Friends have some interests in common.
* Friends share an on-going relationship, with periodic (although not necessarily regular) contact.
* Friends trust one another, at least to some extent, with information, monëy, safety and other relationships.
* Friends can say "no" to each other and still remain friends.
* Friends can see, and accept, the worst in each other.
* Friends rarely feel they "owe" each other anything; give and take is without obligatïon between them (perhaps with some limits!).
* Friendship is also characterized by understanding, communication, acceptance, lack of embarrassment, trust.
Friendship is held within us, an attitude toward another person much like love, anger or prejudice. It requires no regular outward expression. It requires merely a feeling of commitment to the relationship.
Often such a feeling is supported by the belief that the other person cares about you, that the other values the relationship as well. If we believe that we are important to each other--important enough that we think of each other warmly nöw and again-- we will likely remain friends, even if we don't see each other for years.
We suggest that if you act assertively most of the time, you are more likely to have satisfying relationships than if you act in nonassertive or aggressive ways. We offer these assertive skills when developing a friendship:
* Take the risks necessary to build an acquaintance into a friend.
* Allow yourself to be seen as you are by your friend.
* Share something of yourself you would not ordinarily tell someone else.
* Be spontaneous with your new friend, suggest an activity on the spur of the moment, really listen to what is important in your friend's life.
* Ask your friend's advice with a problem or help with a project (remembering that an assertive friend can say "no" and still like you!).
* Simply tell the person you like him/her.
* Clear the air between you; if you are annoyed or suspect that your friend may be, bring it up.
* Get honest. Don't let assumptions define your relationship. If the relationship can't handle it, it probably would not have lasted anyway. If it can, you'll be miles ahead!
About the Author:
Adapted from "Your Perfect Right: Assertiveness and Equality in Your Life and Relationships," by Robert E. Alberti, Ph.D., and Michael L. Emmons, Ph.D. Available at online and local bookstores or directly from Impact Publishers, Inc., PO Box 6016, Atascadero, CA 93423-6016, http://www.bibliotherapy.com or phöne 1-800-246-7228
TO CHOOSE TIME IS TO SAVE TIME
------------------------------------------------
You always have enough time if you will but use it wisely. Your dilemma goes deeper than having a shortage of time, it's basically a problem of priorities. Most people leave undone those things that should be done, while they do things that they shouldn't be doing.
Set priorities for your goals. A major part of successful living lies in your ability to put first things first. Most major goals are not achieved because people put second things first.
Is what you're doing getting you closer to your objectives? Anything that is wasted effort represents wasted time.
Don't serve time, make time serve you.
©2006 by Max Steingart
You always have enough time if you will but use it wisely. Your dilemma goes deeper than having a shortage of time, it's basically a problem of priorities. Most people leave undone those things that should be done, while they do things that they shouldn't be doing.
Set priorities for your goals. A major part of successful living lies in your ability to put first things first. Most major goals are not achieved because people put second things first.
Is what you're doing getting you closer to your objectives? Anything that is wasted effort represents wasted time.
Don't serve time, make time serve you.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Focused Value
--------------------------------------------------
Quality vs. Quantity
We live in an age of quantity. The media shapes us with the notion that larger, faster, and more are often synonymous with better. We are told that we need to find more time, more possessions, and more love to be truly happy. A smaller quantity of anything that is high in quality will almost always be more satisfying. A single piece of our favorite chocolate or a thin spread of freshly made preserves can satisfy us more than a full bucket of a product that we aren't very fond of. Similarly, one fulfilling experience can eclipse many empty moments strung together. It is not the quantity of time that matters, but the quality that you experience during each moment. Every minute is an opportunity to love yourself and others, develop confidence and self-respect, and exhibit courage.
Ultimately, quality can make life sweeter. When you focus on quality, all your life experiences can be meaningful. A modest portion of good, healthy food can nourish and satisfy you on multiple levels and, when organically grown, nourish the earth as well. Likewise, a few hours of deep, restful slumber will leave you feeling more refreshed than a night's worth of frequently interrupted sleep. A few minutes spent with a loved one catching up on the important details about family, work, or community can carry more meaning than two hours spent watching television together.
Often, in the pursuit of quantity we cheat ourselves of quality. Then again, quantity also plays a significant role in our lives. Certain elements, such as hugs, kisses, abundance, and love, are best had in copious amounts that are high in quality. But faced with the choice between a single, heartfelt grin and a lifetime of empty smiles, most would, no doubt, choose the former. Ultimately, it is not how much you live or have or do but what you make of each moment that counts.
What do you think?
Quality vs. Quantity
We live in an age of quantity. The media shapes us with the notion that larger, faster, and more are often synonymous with better. We are told that we need to find more time, more possessions, and more love to be truly happy. A smaller quantity of anything that is high in quality will almost always be more satisfying. A single piece of our favorite chocolate or a thin spread of freshly made preserves can satisfy us more than a full bucket of a product that we aren't very fond of. Similarly, one fulfilling experience can eclipse many empty moments strung together. It is not the quantity of time that matters, but the quality that you experience during each moment. Every minute is an opportunity to love yourself and others, develop confidence and self-respect, and exhibit courage.
Ultimately, quality can make life sweeter. When you focus on quality, all your life experiences can be meaningful. A modest portion of good, healthy food can nourish and satisfy you on multiple levels and, when organically grown, nourish the earth as well. Likewise, a few hours of deep, restful slumber will leave you feeling more refreshed than a night's worth of frequently interrupted sleep. A few minutes spent with a loved one catching up on the important details about family, work, or community can carry more meaning than two hours spent watching television together.
Often, in the pursuit of quantity we cheat ourselves of quality. Then again, quantity also plays a significant role in our lives. Certain elements, such as hugs, kisses, abundance, and love, are best had in copious amounts that are high in quality. But faced with the choice between a single, heartfelt grin and a lifetime of empty smiles, most would, no doubt, choose the former. Ultimately, it is not how much you live or have or do but what you make of each moment that counts.
What do you think?
7 Ways to Start Your Day with More Energy
--------------------------------------------------
– By Jon Gordon
Did you know that researchers can predict what your energy will be like in the afternoon and evening by knowing your habits in the morning? This is because how you start the day is so powerful in determining the kind of day you are going to have. Just think about your start to the day. Do you wake up tired or refreshed? Do you get enough sleep? Do you feel stressed, scattered and negative, or calm, focused and optimistic? Do you eat protein and fiber for breakfast, or do you consider a Krispy Kreme donut the breakfast of champions? I hear it all the time. People are overstressed, overtired and overworked. They are desperately searching for energy. That's why Starbucks did over $5 billion in säles last year.
Well, if you've been reading my newsletters, you know I believe there is a better way. Energy drinks are like the energy mafia. Too much coffee takes you on an energy roller coaster ride that isn't any fun. Stimulants, pills, energy gels and high sugar food only provide a quick fix. There is a better way, and having coached thousands of people, I know it works. The power and energy to improve your life starts with your morning habits.
As I traveled the country doing seminars and talking to many of you over the phöne or via email, it became crystal clear that we need practical tools and a practical plan to start our day with more energy. So many of you were screaming HELP! So hëre are some tips to answer your SOS calls.
Action Steps:
1. Don't hit the dreaded snooze button. Give yourself time to engage in an energizing morning. Instead of stressing all morning, you'll have time to fuel up with energizing habits.
2. Eat a breakfast (Mom's been telling us this for years) high in protein and fiber. Eggs are great. Fruit and oatmeal are wonderful. Even whole grain toast with almond butter will kick-start your metabolism and sustain your energy.
3. Practice gratitude. When you are thankful you can't be stressed.
4. Do 10-15 minutes of walking, jumping rope, yoga, etc. each morning. It doesn't sound like much but it will make a huge difference. I just heard from an attorney who took my advice and started doing this each morning, and it has changed his entire day and enhanced his performänce.
5. Take energizing breaths throughout the morning. Inhale for 3-4 seconds and exhale for 3-4 seconds.
6. Drink a cup of water when you first wake up to replenish the water you lost throughout the night. With each sleeping breath, you losë water.
7. Go to bed earlier and get more sleep. How you start the day actually starts at bedtime. Everything and I mean everything in your life improves when you get more sleep.
Sending Positive Energy Your Way,
- Jon
About the Author:
Jon Gordon is known as America’s # 1 Energy Coach. He is the best-selling author of several books, including his newest release, "The 10-Minute Energy Solution." Learn more about Jon, his books and his frëe weekly energy tip newsletter at http://www.JonGordon.com
– By Jon Gordon
Did you know that researchers can predict what your energy will be like in the afternoon and evening by knowing your habits in the morning? This is because how you start the day is so powerful in determining the kind of day you are going to have. Just think about your start to the day. Do you wake up tired or refreshed? Do you get enough sleep? Do you feel stressed, scattered and negative, or calm, focused and optimistic? Do you eat protein and fiber for breakfast, or do you consider a Krispy Kreme donut the breakfast of champions? I hear it all the time. People are overstressed, overtired and overworked. They are desperately searching for energy. That's why Starbucks did over $5 billion in säles last year.
Well, if you've been reading my newsletters, you know I believe there is a better way. Energy drinks are like the energy mafia. Too much coffee takes you on an energy roller coaster ride that isn't any fun. Stimulants, pills, energy gels and high sugar food only provide a quick fix. There is a better way, and having coached thousands of people, I know it works. The power and energy to improve your life starts with your morning habits.
As I traveled the country doing seminars and talking to many of you over the phöne or via email, it became crystal clear that we need practical tools and a practical plan to start our day with more energy. So many of you were screaming HELP! So hëre are some tips to answer your SOS calls.
Action Steps:
1. Don't hit the dreaded snooze button. Give yourself time to engage in an energizing morning. Instead of stressing all morning, you'll have time to fuel up with energizing habits.
2. Eat a breakfast (Mom's been telling us this for years) high in protein and fiber. Eggs are great. Fruit and oatmeal are wonderful. Even whole grain toast with almond butter will kick-start your metabolism and sustain your energy.
3. Practice gratitude. When you are thankful you can't be stressed.
4. Do 10-15 minutes of walking, jumping rope, yoga, etc. each morning. It doesn't sound like much but it will make a huge difference. I just heard from an attorney who took my advice and started doing this each morning, and it has changed his entire day and enhanced his performänce.
5. Take energizing breaths throughout the morning. Inhale for 3-4 seconds and exhale for 3-4 seconds.
6. Drink a cup of water when you first wake up to replenish the water you lost throughout the night. With each sleeping breath, you losë water.
7. Go to bed earlier and get more sleep. How you start the day actually starts at bedtime. Everything and I mean everything in your life improves when you get more sleep.
Sending Positive Energy Your Way,
- Jon
About the Author:
Jon Gordon is known as America’s # 1 Energy Coach. He is the best-selling author of several books, including his newest release, "The 10-Minute Energy Solution." Learn more about Jon, his books and his frëe weekly energy tip newsletter at http://www.JonGordon.com
PREPARATION IS THE SECRET TO CONFIDENCE
-------------------------------------------------
With practice you'll come to a point of competence. You'll find yourself accomplishing your goals gracefully and confidently.
It's then that you'll do things that you never dreamed you could do. You'll discover powers you never knew existed. If you're prepared, you're able to feel confident.
There can be no great courage when there is no confidence or assurance. Half the battle is in the conviction that you can accomplish what you undertake.
Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's the result of constant work and dedication.
©2006 by Max Steingart
With practice you'll come to a point of competence. You'll find yourself accomplishing your goals gracefully and confidently.
It's then that you'll do things that you never dreamed you could do. You'll discover powers you never knew existed. If you're prepared, you're able to feel confident.
There can be no great courage when there is no confidence or assurance. Half the battle is in the conviction that you can accomplish what you undertake.
Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's the result of constant work and dedication.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Friday, January 13, 2006
Letting Your Feelings Flow
-------------------------------------------------
Tears
How wonderful it feels to give in and let tears flow when we are overwhelmed with emotions, whether we are happy or sad. Tears come from the soul, from our well of feelings rising from deep down. When we give in to the prickling behind our eyes and the lump in our throat to let teardrops fall from our eyes, we allow our feelings to surface so they can be set free.
Proud parents shed tears of pride in a child's accomplishments, a baby's first step, birthdays, and graduations. Long lost friends fall into each other's arms, tears rolling down their cheeks when they reunite after years of separation. Tears may flow from us when we are witness to a commitment being made at a wedding or even while we are watching a love story. Tears of relief may spring forth from our eyes when we hear that a loved one has survived an ordeal, and tears may fall when we bow our head in sorrow over a loss or death. Tears born from heartache can flow like they'll never cease, whether our tears are for a love that is over, a friendship lost, or an opportunity missed. We shed tears because of disappointment in ourselves, tragedy in the world, pain, and illness. Tears of anger can burn with emotion as they fall down our faces. Tears offer us a physical release of our feelings.
Shedding tears can sometimes make us feel better, although it can feel like the tears will never end once the floodgates are open. There is no shame in letting tears flow freely and frequently. Tears are as natural to us as is breathing. There is beauty in allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to shed tears. Open up, release your tears, and let your feelings flow.
What do you think?
Tears
How wonderful it feels to give in and let tears flow when we are overwhelmed with emotions, whether we are happy or sad. Tears come from the soul, from our well of feelings rising from deep down. When we give in to the prickling behind our eyes and the lump in our throat to let teardrops fall from our eyes, we allow our feelings to surface so they can be set free.
Proud parents shed tears of pride in a child's accomplishments, a baby's first step, birthdays, and graduations. Long lost friends fall into each other's arms, tears rolling down their cheeks when they reunite after years of separation. Tears may flow from us when we are witness to a commitment being made at a wedding or even while we are watching a love story. Tears of relief may spring forth from our eyes when we hear that a loved one has survived an ordeal, and tears may fall when we bow our head in sorrow over a loss or death. Tears born from heartache can flow like they'll never cease, whether our tears are for a love that is over, a friendship lost, or an opportunity missed. We shed tears because of disappointment in ourselves, tragedy in the world, pain, and illness. Tears of anger can burn with emotion as they fall down our faces. Tears offer us a physical release of our feelings.
Shedding tears can sometimes make us feel better, although it can feel like the tears will never end once the floodgates are open. There is no shame in letting tears flow freely and frequently. Tears are as natural to us as is breathing. There is beauty in allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to shed tears. Open up, release your tears, and let your feelings flow.
What do you think?
1000 Marbles
-------------------------------------------------
- AsAManThinketh.net
The older I get, the more I enjoy Saturday mornings. Perhaps it's the quiet solitude that comes with being the first to rise, or maybe it's the unbounded joy of not having to be at work. Either way, the first few hours of a Saturday morning are most enjoyable.
A few weeks ago, I was shuffling toward the kitchen with a steaming cup of coffee in one hand and the morning paper in the other. What began as a typical Saturday morning turned into one of those lessons that life seems to hand you from time to time. Let me tell you about it.
I turned the volume up on my radio in order to listen to a Saturday morning talk show. I heard an older sounding chap with a golden voice. You know the kind, he sounded like he should be in the broadcasting business himself.
He was talking about "a thousand marbles" to someone named "Tom." I was intrigued and sat down to listen to what he had to say.
"Well, Tom, it sure sounds like you're busy with your job. I'm sure they pay you well but it's a shame you have to be away from home and your Family so much. Hard to believe a young fellow should have to work sixty or seventy hours a week to make ends meet. Too bad you missed your daughter's dance recital."
He continued, "Let me tell you something Tom, something that has helped me keep a good perspective on my own priorities."
And that's when he began to explain his theory of "a thousand marbles"
"You see, I sat down one day and did a little arithmetic. The average person lives about seventy-five years. I know, some live more and some live less, but on average, folks live about seventy-five years."
"Now then, I multiplied 75 times 52 and I came up with 3900 which is the number of Saturdays that the average person has in their entire lifetime. Now stick with me Tom, I'm getting to the important part."
"It took me until I was fifty-five years old to think about all this in any detail," he went on, "and by that time I had lived through over twenty-eight hundred Saturdays. I got to thinking that if I lived to be seventy-five, I only had about a thousand of them left to enjoy."
"So I went to a toy store and bought every single marble they had. I ended up having to visit three toy stores to roundup 1000 marbles. I took them home and put them inside of a large, clear plastic container right here in my workshop next to the radio. Every Saturday since then, I have taken one marble out and have thrown it away"
"I found that by watching the marbles diminish, I focused more on the really important things in life. There is nothing like watching your time here on this earth run out to help get your priorities straight."
"Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you and take my lovely wife out for breakfast.
This morning, I took the very last marble out of the container. I figure if I make it until next Saturday then God has blessed me with a little extra time to be with my loved ones.
"It was nice to talk to you Tom, I hope you spend more time with your loved ones, and I hope to meet you again someday. Have a good morning!"
You could have heard a pin drop when he finished. Even the show's moderator didn't have anything to say for a few moments.
I guess he gave us all a lot to think about.
I had planned to do some work that morning, and then go to the gym. Instead, I went upstairs and woke my wife up with a kiss. "C'mon honey, I'm taking you and the kids to breakfast."
"What brought this on?" she asked with a smile. "Oh, nothing special," I said. "It has just been a long time since we spent a Saturday together with the kids. Hey, can we stop at a toy store while we're out? I need to buy some marbles."
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND AND MAY ALL SATURDAYS BE SPECIAL AND MAY YOU HAVE MANY HAPPY YEARS AFTER YOU LOSE ALL YOUR MARBLES.
Sent to you as a courtesy of...
Your friends at AsAManThinketh.net For a free eBook of James Allens classic:
http://www.AsAManThinketh.net
- AsAManThinketh.net
The older I get, the more I enjoy Saturday mornings. Perhaps it's the quiet solitude that comes with being the first to rise, or maybe it's the unbounded joy of not having to be at work. Either way, the first few hours of a Saturday morning are most enjoyable.
A few weeks ago, I was shuffling toward the kitchen with a steaming cup of coffee in one hand and the morning paper in the other. What began as a typical Saturday morning turned into one of those lessons that life seems to hand you from time to time. Let me tell you about it.
I turned the volume up on my radio in order to listen to a Saturday morning talk show. I heard an older sounding chap with a golden voice. You know the kind, he sounded like he should be in the broadcasting business himself.
He was talking about "a thousand marbles" to someone named "Tom." I was intrigued and sat down to listen to what he had to say.
"Well, Tom, it sure sounds like you're busy with your job. I'm sure they pay you well but it's a shame you have to be away from home and your Family so much. Hard to believe a young fellow should have to work sixty or seventy hours a week to make ends meet. Too bad you missed your daughter's dance recital."
He continued, "Let me tell you something Tom, something that has helped me keep a good perspective on my own priorities."
And that's when he began to explain his theory of "a thousand marbles"
"You see, I sat down one day and did a little arithmetic. The average person lives about seventy-five years. I know, some live more and some live less, but on average, folks live about seventy-five years."
"Now then, I multiplied 75 times 52 and I came up with 3900 which is the number of Saturdays that the average person has in their entire lifetime. Now stick with me Tom, I'm getting to the important part."
"It took me until I was fifty-five years old to think about all this in any detail," he went on, "and by that time I had lived through over twenty-eight hundred Saturdays. I got to thinking that if I lived to be seventy-five, I only had about a thousand of them left to enjoy."
"So I went to a toy store and bought every single marble they had. I ended up having to visit three toy stores to roundup 1000 marbles. I took them home and put them inside of a large, clear plastic container right here in my workshop next to the radio. Every Saturday since then, I have taken one marble out and have thrown it away"
"I found that by watching the marbles diminish, I focused more on the really important things in life. There is nothing like watching your time here on this earth run out to help get your priorities straight."
"Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you and take my lovely wife out for breakfast.
This morning, I took the very last marble out of the container. I figure if I make it until next Saturday then God has blessed me with a little extra time to be with my loved ones.
"It was nice to talk to you Tom, I hope you spend more time with your loved ones, and I hope to meet you again someday. Have a good morning!"
You could have heard a pin drop when he finished. Even the show's moderator didn't have anything to say for a few moments.
I guess he gave us all a lot to think about.
I had planned to do some work that morning, and then go to the gym. Instead, I went upstairs and woke my wife up with a kiss. "C'mon honey, I'm taking you and the kids to breakfast."
"What brought this on?" she asked with a smile. "Oh, nothing special," I said. "It has just been a long time since we spent a Saturday together with the kids. Hey, can we stop at a toy store while we're out? I need to buy some marbles."
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND AND MAY ALL SATURDAYS BE SPECIAL AND MAY YOU HAVE MANY HAPPY YEARS AFTER YOU LOSE ALL YOUR MARBLES.
Sent to you as a courtesy of...
Your friends at AsAManThinketh.net For a free eBook of James Allens classic:
http://www.AsAManThinketh.net
YOUR LIFE WILL RESPOND TO YOUR OUTLOOK
------------------------------------------------
The dreams you choose to believe in come to be. When you feel in your innermost being that you will achieve what you set out to do, you open the way for miracles.
Choose to believe something good can happen. Expecting it to happen energizes your goal and actually gives it momentum. What you expect to happen, happens.
If you expect to succeed, you'll succeed
©2006 by Max Steingart
The dreams you choose to believe in come to be. When you feel in your innermost being that you will achieve what you set out to do, you open the way for miracles.
Choose to believe something good can happen. Expecting it to happen energizes your goal and actually gives it momentum. What you expect to happen, happens.
If you expect to succeed, you'll succeed
©2006 by Max Steingart
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Vibrational Imprints
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Psychometry
Because our bodies exude energy, we leave behind a vibrational imprint each time we touch or live in close proximity to an object. These imprints, which may be positive or negative memories, emotions, or impressions, can become part of the history of an item. Like you, the objects you encounter have stories to tell. Psychometry is the natural art of reading an object's history in regard to the people and events it has encountered. The objects we associate with are by no means silent bystanders. A house in which a tragedy has occurred may feel cold or silent, while handling a much loved toy may make you feel good. It is widely believed that all human beings possess psychometric abilities. All objects vibrate at specific frequencies, and psychometry asks only that one tune in to those frequencies.
It is common to learn the art of psychometry by using items such as jewelry or a watch, because these objects spend much of their time in close physical proximity to its owners. Information sensed using psychometry usually has to do with an object's owner and may be related to a location, a feeling, or an event. Emotions tend to be easier to sense, though it can take time and diligence to perfect your psychometric talents. To exercise your psychometric skills, relax and sit in a quiet place with your palms facing upward. Have a friend place one of their treasured possessions in your nondominant hand. Let your mind wander until you receive any impressions. Finally, relate what you have seen, heard, or felt.
By simply by holding an object in your hand or putting it to your forehead, you can sense an object's past and vicariously experience the emotions, sounds, tastes, scents, or images that have transpired around it thus far. While psychometry is most often performed on small objects intimately connected to its owners, it is possible for humans to leave an imprint on a large object like a home or automobile and to receive impressions from these objects. Once you know an object's story, you can release it of its memories or marvel at the wealth of information cradled within.
What do you think?
Psychometry
Because our bodies exude energy, we leave behind a vibrational imprint each time we touch or live in close proximity to an object. These imprints, which may be positive or negative memories, emotions, or impressions, can become part of the history of an item. Like you, the objects you encounter have stories to tell. Psychometry is the natural art of reading an object's history in regard to the people and events it has encountered. The objects we associate with are by no means silent bystanders. A house in which a tragedy has occurred may feel cold or silent, while handling a much loved toy may make you feel good. It is widely believed that all human beings possess psychometric abilities. All objects vibrate at specific frequencies, and psychometry asks only that one tune in to those frequencies.
It is common to learn the art of psychometry by using items such as jewelry or a watch, because these objects spend much of their time in close physical proximity to its owners. Information sensed using psychometry usually has to do with an object's owner and may be related to a location, a feeling, or an event. Emotions tend to be easier to sense, though it can take time and diligence to perfect your psychometric talents. To exercise your psychometric skills, relax and sit in a quiet place with your palms facing upward. Have a friend place one of their treasured possessions in your nondominant hand. Let your mind wander until you receive any impressions. Finally, relate what you have seen, heard, or felt.
By simply by holding an object in your hand or putting it to your forehead, you can sense an object's past and vicariously experience the emotions, sounds, tastes, scents, or images that have transpired around it thus far. While psychometry is most often performed on small objects intimately connected to its owners, it is possible for humans to leave an imprint on a large object like a home or automobile and to receive impressions from these objects. Once you know an object's story, you can release it of its memories or marvel at the wealth of information cradled within.
What do you think?
The Power of Story
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– By Christina Baldwin
True stories of ordinary people are the most inspiring experiences we share. Stories talk about action, and stories inspire action. Stuck in traffïc, we look for the story: Why is everybody stopped? We scan radio stations. Finally we creep over a rise and see bent metal, flashing lights. We have all driven by such scenes grateful that we aren’t involved, but maybe we are the first on the scene. We pull over and jump out, approach the wrecked vehicles, calling, “Are you all right?”
A young woman is bleeding. “My baby...” she says, “get the baby out...” This is a one-sentence story. And perhaps you are a 25-year-old car mechanic with a stranger’s baby crying in your tattooed arms and you start singing a Polish lullaby your grandmother taught you. The child calms and you tell the mother, “Hëre, take my bandana and apply pressure to that cut on your forehead. I think you’re okay, it’s mostly blood...” This is a life-changing story activated by one event. Soon the patrol cars come, the ambulance comes, someone takes the baby and it’s all over, except your arms feel empty and you can’t stop humming that lullaby.
Story changes what we believe about ourselves. You start collecting baby blankets and teddy bears to be stored in the local highway patrol cars. You tell the story over and over--each time remembering the woman, the baby, and how you felt in that moment. A television station calls, and you’re on the local 6:00 news. Later you hear that someone started the same movement in another city and another. By telling the story you understand the experience and imbed it into your memory. The stories that grow from such moments can travel way beyond the lives of anyone directly
involved. In the age of global communication someone across the world can say, “Hey, I read about this guy... this mother... this baby...”
The yöung man could have driven by. He chose a reaction and lived out a story that made him a hero. When we share our actions through story, we give other people inspiration, information and courage to act. When we risk being the better part of ourselves we make a better world.
Story offers every person the chance to make a better world through the power of words.
Want to fulfill your personal dreams? Make sure you are carrying a story in which you tell yourself you ARE capable of doing the things you want with your life--and then live up to your story. A little girl wanted to be a dancer. She wasn’t automatically good at it--she just practiced. She’s not famous, but she’s a good dancer with a local troupe. Life stories can be realistic and daring.
Want to help others develop a helpful story? A kindergarten teacher heard a student say, “I can’t do that...” She asked, “What would you need to believe in yourself?”
“...to be strong like a lion.”
“Okay,” she said. “Let’s make a story about you and a friendly lion who helps you grow into a strong and caring person.” Stories support people’s imagination.
Want a better neighborhood, workplace or organization? The next time someone says, “Jim is always blocking constructive action. I just can’t work with him,” tell the story about the time you got snowed into the parking lot and there was Jim, shoveling you out. Stories can highlight actions that shift our expectations of each other.
Want a kinder community or country? We can hear each other’s story in ways we cannot hear each other’s opinion. Two neighbors, one Republican and one Democrat, found shared values in recycling when they walked a roadside clean up crew together. It gave them a way to begin discovering commonality. Stories champion human goodness however it shows up.
Two people can have almost identical experiences and create very different stories out of them. Story gives us the power to choose: we can turn tragedy into triumph, and we can turn triumph into tragedy. When we practice the power of story, we can help set loose the stories that make for happier lives.
* A parent and a teenager caught in a misunderstanding went camping. They put questïons for each other into a hat and drew out the slips of paper one at a time.
* A couple set aside one hour a month to read to each other from their journals: not commenting, just listening to the private story of their partner’s life.
* A team of people assigned a difficult task decided to write their strategic plan as a mythic story and then fulfill their roles as heroes and helpers.
When we know each other at the level of story, we create relationship and community. Life is richer. Streets are safer. All it takes is a little courage to turn to someone and start a conversation: What’s your favorite birthday? Who’s been your most creative teacher? What’s the best thing that happened to you last year? When did you take a risk that turned out really well? Let’s tell each other those stories.
Based on the book "Storycatcher: Making Sense of Our Lives through the Power and Practice of Story" © 2005 by Christina Baldwin. Printed with permission of New World Library, Novato, CA. http://www.newworldlibrary.com/ or 800-972-6657 ext. 52.
About the Author:
Christina Baldwin is the author of "Storycatcher: Making Sense of Our Lives through the Power and Practice of Story." Find out more at http://www.storycatcher.net
– By Christina Baldwin
True stories of ordinary people are the most inspiring experiences we share. Stories talk about action, and stories inspire action. Stuck in traffïc, we look for the story: Why is everybody stopped? We scan radio stations. Finally we creep over a rise and see bent metal, flashing lights. We have all driven by such scenes grateful that we aren’t involved, but maybe we are the first on the scene. We pull over and jump out, approach the wrecked vehicles, calling, “Are you all right?”
A young woman is bleeding. “My baby...” she says, “get the baby out...” This is a one-sentence story. And perhaps you are a 25-year-old car mechanic with a stranger’s baby crying in your tattooed arms and you start singing a Polish lullaby your grandmother taught you. The child calms and you tell the mother, “Hëre, take my bandana and apply pressure to that cut on your forehead. I think you’re okay, it’s mostly blood...” This is a life-changing story activated by one event. Soon the patrol cars come, the ambulance comes, someone takes the baby and it’s all over, except your arms feel empty and you can’t stop humming that lullaby.
Story changes what we believe about ourselves. You start collecting baby blankets and teddy bears to be stored in the local highway patrol cars. You tell the story over and over--each time remembering the woman, the baby, and how you felt in that moment. A television station calls, and you’re on the local 6:00 news. Later you hear that someone started the same movement in another city and another. By telling the story you understand the experience and imbed it into your memory. The stories that grow from such moments can travel way beyond the lives of anyone directly
involved. In the age of global communication someone across the world can say, “Hey, I read about this guy... this mother... this baby...”
The yöung man could have driven by. He chose a reaction and lived out a story that made him a hero. When we share our actions through story, we give other people inspiration, information and courage to act. When we risk being the better part of ourselves we make a better world.
Story offers every person the chance to make a better world through the power of words.
Want to fulfill your personal dreams? Make sure you are carrying a story in which you tell yourself you ARE capable of doing the things you want with your life--and then live up to your story. A little girl wanted to be a dancer. She wasn’t automatically good at it--she just practiced. She’s not famous, but she’s a good dancer with a local troupe. Life stories can be realistic and daring.
Want to help others develop a helpful story? A kindergarten teacher heard a student say, “I can’t do that...” She asked, “What would you need to believe in yourself?”
“...to be strong like a lion.”
“Okay,” she said. “Let’s make a story about you and a friendly lion who helps you grow into a strong and caring person.” Stories support people’s imagination.
Want a better neighborhood, workplace or organization? The next time someone says, “Jim is always blocking constructive action. I just can’t work with him,” tell the story about the time you got snowed into the parking lot and there was Jim, shoveling you out. Stories can highlight actions that shift our expectations of each other.
Want a kinder community or country? We can hear each other’s story in ways we cannot hear each other’s opinion. Two neighbors, one Republican and one Democrat, found shared values in recycling when they walked a roadside clean up crew together. It gave them a way to begin discovering commonality. Stories champion human goodness however it shows up.
Two people can have almost identical experiences and create very different stories out of them. Story gives us the power to choose: we can turn tragedy into triumph, and we can turn triumph into tragedy. When we practice the power of story, we can help set loose the stories that make for happier lives.
* A parent and a teenager caught in a misunderstanding went camping. They put questïons for each other into a hat and drew out the slips of paper one at a time.
* A couple set aside one hour a month to read to each other from their journals: not commenting, just listening to the private story of their partner’s life.
* A team of people assigned a difficult task decided to write their strategic plan as a mythic story and then fulfill their roles as heroes and helpers.
When we know each other at the level of story, we create relationship and community. Life is richer. Streets are safer. All it takes is a little courage to turn to someone and start a conversation: What’s your favorite birthday? Who’s been your most creative teacher? What’s the best thing that happened to you last year? When did you take a risk that turned out really well? Let’s tell each other those stories.
Based on the book "Storycatcher: Making Sense of Our Lives through the Power and Practice of Story" © 2005 by Christina Baldwin. Printed with permission of New World Library, Novato, CA. http://www.newworldlibrary.com/ or 800-972-6657 ext. 52.
About the Author:
Christina Baldwin is the author of "Storycatcher: Making Sense of Our Lives through the Power and Practice of Story." Find out more at http://www.storycatcher.net
YOU ARE YOUR ENVIRONMENT
------------------------------------------------
Always be mindful that you're a product of your environment. So choose an environment that will best develop you toward your objective.
Analyze your life in terms of your environment. Are the things around you helping you toward your success, or are they holding you back?
The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you're not going to stay where you are. You're not a captive of your environment.
If you don't like where you are, you can make some changes. You're not planted permanently in the ground like a tree. Don't say, "You would, if you could," start saying, "You will, because you can."
When you become a part of anything it becomes a part of you.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Always be mindful that you're a product of your environment. So choose an environment that will best develop you toward your objective.
Analyze your life in terms of your environment. Are the things around you helping you toward your success, or are they holding you back?
The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you're not going to stay where you are. You're not a captive of your environment.
If you don't like where you are, you can make some changes. You're not planted permanently in the ground like a tree. Don't say, "You would, if you could," start saying, "You will, because you can."
When you become a part of anything it becomes a part of you.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
The Joy Of Being
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Celebrating The In-Between Times
While celebrations are intended to honor life's more momentous occasions, much of real life tends to happen during the in-between times. While moving from one moment in time to the next is seldom considered a significant occurrence, it is during those in-between times that we are most in tune with life's most profound, albeit simple joys. Between birth and death, triumph and sorrow, beginnings and endings, we enjoy innumerable experiences that often happen unnoticed. These times are just as worthy of celebration.
The in-between times are seldom about landmark moments. How you choose to celebrate them or which moments you choose to celebrate is up to you. You may want to celebrate the simple facts that you are alive and that every day is a chance to spend time with the people you care about or do the work that you love. Then again, when you look at the good that exists in your life, many reasons for celebrating the in-between times may become clear: a cup of your favorite tea, a beautiful sunrise, a good book, and the smell of fresh air can be reasons for celebration.
Celebrating the in-between times can be as easy as paying special attention to them when they do happen, rather than taking them for granted. It's your focus of attention that can turn an in-between time into a celebration. You can also pay homage to the in-between times by slowing down and allowing yourself time to look around and allow your heart and mind to take in all of your life's wonders. Far too often, we can let those simple moments of awe pass us by. The in-between times are when life happens to us between the pauses that we take to honor our milestones occasions. Without the in-between times, there would be no big moments to celebrate.
What do you think?
Celebrating The In-Between Times
While celebrations are intended to honor life's more momentous occasions, much of real life tends to happen during the in-between times. While moving from one moment in time to the next is seldom considered a significant occurrence, it is during those in-between times that we are most in tune with life's most profound, albeit simple joys. Between birth and death, triumph and sorrow, beginnings and endings, we enjoy innumerable experiences that often happen unnoticed. These times are just as worthy of celebration.
The in-between times are seldom about landmark moments. How you choose to celebrate them or which moments you choose to celebrate is up to you. You may want to celebrate the simple facts that you are alive and that every day is a chance to spend time with the people you care about or do the work that you love. Then again, when you look at the good that exists in your life, many reasons for celebrating the in-between times may become clear: a cup of your favorite tea, a beautiful sunrise, a good book, and the smell of fresh air can be reasons for celebration.
Celebrating the in-between times can be as easy as paying special attention to them when they do happen, rather than taking them for granted. It's your focus of attention that can turn an in-between time into a celebration. You can also pay homage to the in-between times by slowing down and allowing yourself time to look around and allow your heart and mind to take in all of your life's wonders. Far too often, we can let those simple moments of awe pass us by. The in-between times are when life happens to us between the pauses that we take to honor our milestones occasions. Without the in-between times, there would be no big moments to celebrate.
What do you think?
Stop Procrastination Nöw
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– By Kathy Gates, Professional Life Coach
How long did it take you to realize the benefits of removing a splinter right away from your finger? As a child, removing that splinter seemed like an awful thing to do, but experience FINALLY taught us that if we leave it alone, it will only get infected, get worse, and be a whole lot harder to deal with.
But have you really learned this lesson yet?
Allowing - even courting - delay in your life is a huge roadblock between you and a great life. When you respond to a problem, situation, request, task, etc. without delay, you minimize the action - and the pain -- involved.
Think again about that splinter. Consider it as a metaphor to any problem or situation that you need to deal with, that needs change. At first the 'splinter' catches your attention, with just an Ouch. But if you ignore it, it will get sore. If you continue to ignore it, it will swell and be quite painful. If you continue to ignore it, or just put a Band-Aid on it instead of getting to the source (the splinter), it may become so infected that it could actually threaten your health. All that from a tiny splinter, or tiny problem that you chose to delay taking care of.
Need for ACTION, shows up like this:
* Inkling, Hint, or OUCH (a.k.a. the splinter) - Example, the car ïnsurance bill due every 6 months. A few months ahead you begin to think, "I oughta put back some monëy to pay that ïnsurance that's going to be due in December."
* Message: Bill arrives; you don't have the monëy to pay; you ignore the bill.
* Problem: Late due notice arrives, includes extra for late fees; it's Christmas time, and you just don't have any extra right nöw; you ignore the bill (that splinter is swollen and quite painful right nöw)
* Crisis: Your ïnsurance is cancelled, and you'll have to put out a lot more to get a new ïnsurance company to take you.
The epitome of delay in our society is credït card dëbt. If you look at credït cards realistically, when you charge something you are only delaying when and how much extra you'll pay for purchasing it. So you end up paying for a dinner you enjoyed months ago, PLUS the added interest.
When you allow delay to CONTROL your life, everybody and everything else is in charge of your life. You're not running your life, the ïnsurance company or the credït card company or your mother-in-law or the kids ARE.
When you delay, YOU - yes, YOU - create a crisis situation, and you end up without a choice. No Choice on how to spend that monëy - it MUST be used to pay the credït card. No Choice on how to spend your time. It MUST be used to go see your mother-in-law.
Your actions, your thoughts, your behavior, your monëy, your energy will be controlled by an external deadline.
Instead, when a problem is approached from an "eliminate delay" standpoint, sometimes only a small step is necessary to solve the problem - or to AVOID the problem altogether. An early response will usually allow time for making an informed decision based on CHOICE, instead of 'have to.'
Each one of these is harder and harder to deal with. Each one of these costs you more energy, time, monëy, and even a part of your spirit.
When you begin to Eliminate Delay from your life, you are able to respond to hints or inklings (such as a bill that WILL be due in the future), in a way that works FOR you, instead of having to respond in a way that's dictated by others (i.e. the ïnsurance company example).
Become the type of person who responds to problems and situations and others' requests (when appropriate) immediately. You'll be able to respond calmly and efficiently because you have the LUXURY of choice and reserves of time, energy, support, and monëy.
About the Author:
This is an excerpt from the E-book, "10 Things Between You and a Great Life!" by Professional Life Coach Kathy Gates. You can order the book, and view other books and programs designed to help you solve Real Life Challenges, and live a Happier, Easier, Better Life at http://www.reallifecoach.com
– By Kathy Gates, Professional Life Coach
How long did it take you to realize the benefits of removing a splinter right away from your finger? As a child, removing that splinter seemed like an awful thing to do, but experience FINALLY taught us that if we leave it alone, it will only get infected, get worse, and be a whole lot harder to deal with.
But have you really learned this lesson yet?
Allowing - even courting - delay in your life is a huge roadblock between you and a great life. When you respond to a problem, situation, request, task, etc. without delay, you minimize the action - and the pain -- involved.
Think again about that splinter. Consider it as a metaphor to any problem or situation that you need to deal with, that needs change. At first the 'splinter' catches your attention, with just an Ouch. But if you ignore it, it will get sore. If you continue to ignore it, it will swell and be quite painful. If you continue to ignore it, or just put a Band-Aid on it instead of getting to the source (the splinter), it may become so infected that it could actually threaten your health. All that from a tiny splinter, or tiny problem that you chose to delay taking care of.
Need for ACTION, shows up like this:
* Inkling, Hint, or OUCH (a.k.a. the splinter) - Example, the car ïnsurance bill due every 6 months. A few months ahead you begin to think, "I oughta put back some monëy to pay that ïnsurance that's going to be due in December."
* Message: Bill arrives; you don't have the monëy to pay; you ignore the bill.
* Problem: Late due notice arrives, includes extra for late fees; it's Christmas time, and you just don't have any extra right nöw; you ignore the bill (that splinter is swollen and quite painful right nöw)
* Crisis: Your ïnsurance is cancelled, and you'll have to put out a lot more to get a new ïnsurance company to take you.
The epitome of delay in our society is credït card dëbt. If you look at credït cards realistically, when you charge something you are only delaying when and how much extra you'll pay for purchasing it. So you end up paying for a dinner you enjoyed months ago, PLUS the added interest.
When you allow delay to CONTROL your life, everybody and everything else is in charge of your life. You're not running your life, the ïnsurance company or the credït card company or your mother-in-law or the kids ARE.
When you delay, YOU - yes, YOU - create a crisis situation, and you end up without a choice. No Choice on how to spend that monëy - it MUST be used to pay the credït card. No Choice on how to spend your time. It MUST be used to go see your mother-in-law.
Your actions, your thoughts, your behavior, your monëy, your energy will be controlled by an external deadline.
Instead, when a problem is approached from an "eliminate delay" standpoint, sometimes only a small step is necessary to solve the problem - or to AVOID the problem altogether. An early response will usually allow time for making an informed decision based on CHOICE, instead of 'have to.'
Each one of these is harder and harder to deal with. Each one of these costs you more energy, time, monëy, and even a part of your spirit.
When you begin to Eliminate Delay from your life, you are able to respond to hints or inklings (such as a bill that WILL be due in the future), in a way that works FOR you, instead of having to respond in a way that's dictated by others (i.e. the ïnsurance company example).
Become the type of person who responds to problems and situations and others' requests (when appropriate) immediately. You'll be able to respond calmly and efficiently because you have the LUXURY of choice and reserves of time, energy, support, and monëy.
About the Author:
This is an excerpt from the E-book, "10 Things Between You and a Great Life!" by Professional Life Coach Kathy Gates. You can order the book, and view other books and programs designed to help you solve Real Life Challenges, and live a Happier, Easier, Better Life at http://www.reallifecoach.com
SUCCESS IS A STATE OF MIND
-------------------------------------------------
If you truly want to be successful, start thinking of yourself as successful.
The only thing that stands between you and what you want from life, is simply the will to try it and the faith to believe that it is possible.
There is nothing on earth that you can't have, once you mentally accept the fact that you can have it.
The feeling must come first. If you actually feel successful, if you have a deep inner conviction that you'll always have all that you need, it will be so.
Whatever your mind can conceive and believe in, your mind can help you achieve.
©2006 by Max Steingart
If you truly want to be successful, start thinking of yourself as successful.
The only thing that stands between you and what you want from life, is simply the will to try it and the faith to believe that it is possible.
There is nothing on earth that you can't have, once you mentally accept the fact that you can have it.
The feeling must come first. If you actually feel successful, if you have a deep inner conviction that you'll always have all that you need, it will be so.
Whatever your mind can conceive and believe in, your mind can help you achieve.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Warning Signs
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Paying Attention To Red Flags
Just as the universe wants to provide for our needs, it also seeks to protect us from dangerous situations, destructive relationships, and even minor inconveniences. Frequently in our lives, perhaps everyday, we encounter psychic red flags warning us of potential problems or accidents. We may not always recognize the signs. However, more often than not, we may choose to ignore our intuition when it tells us that "something just isn't right."
Red flags often come in the form of feelings urging us to pause for a moment, listen to our intuition, and reconsider. We may even experience a "bad" feeling in our bellies. This is a red flag letting us know that there may be a problem. We may not even know what the red flag is about. All we know is that the universe is trying to wave us in a different direction. We just have to pay attention and go another way. We may even wonder whether we are paranoid or imagining things. However, when we look back at a situation or relationship where there were red flags, it becomes easy to understand exactly what those warning signs meant. More often than not, a red flag is not a false warning. Rather, it is the universe's way of informing us, through our own innate guidance system, that our path best lies elsewhere.
We may try to ignore the red flags waving our way, dismissing our unease as illogical. Yet it is always in our best interest to pay attention to them. For example, we may meet someone who outwardly seems perfect. They are intelligent, attractive, and charming. Yet, for some reason, being around them makes us feel uneasy. Any interactions we have with them are awkward and leave us feeling like there is something "off" about the situation. This is not necessarily a bad person. But, for some reason, the universe is directing us away from them. Red flags are intended with our best interests at heart. No harm can ever come from stopping long enough to heed a red flag. Pay attention to any red flags that pop up. The universe is always looking out for you.
What do you think?
Paying Attention To Red Flags
Just as the universe wants to provide for our needs, it also seeks to protect us from dangerous situations, destructive relationships, and even minor inconveniences. Frequently in our lives, perhaps everyday, we encounter psychic red flags warning us of potential problems or accidents. We may not always recognize the signs. However, more often than not, we may choose to ignore our intuition when it tells us that "something just isn't right."
Red flags often come in the form of feelings urging us to pause for a moment, listen to our intuition, and reconsider. We may even experience a "bad" feeling in our bellies. This is a red flag letting us know that there may be a problem. We may not even know what the red flag is about. All we know is that the universe is trying to wave us in a different direction. We just have to pay attention and go another way. We may even wonder whether we are paranoid or imagining things. However, when we look back at a situation or relationship where there were red flags, it becomes easy to understand exactly what those warning signs meant. More often than not, a red flag is not a false warning. Rather, it is the universe's way of informing us, through our own innate guidance system, that our path best lies elsewhere.
We may try to ignore the red flags waving our way, dismissing our unease as illogical. Yet it is always in our best interest to pay attention to them. For example, we may meet someone who outwardly seems perfect. They are intelligent, attractive, and charming. Yet, for some reason, being around them makes us feel uneasy. Any interactions we have with them are awkward and leave us feeling like there is something "off" about the situation. This is not necessarily a bad person. But, for some reason, the universe is directing us away from them. Red flags are intended with our best interests at heart. No harm can ever come from stopping long enough to heed a red flag. Pay attention to any red flags that pop up. The universe is always looking out for you.
What do you think?
The Power in Praising People
----------------------------------------------------
– By Chris Widener
One of the keys to success is to have successful relationships. We are not islands and we don't get to the top by ourselves. And one of the key ways to grow successful in our relationships is to be "life-giving" people to others. Every person we meet, we either give life to or take life from. You know what I mean. There are people who encourage you and when you are done being with them you feel built up. Then there are others who you feel torn down by. Successful people are people who have mastered the art of building others up.
One of the ways we build people up is to praise them. There is power in praising people! Something begins to happen in them, in you, and in your relationship when you praise someone. Remember a time when someone told you something about yourself in a praising manner? It was great, wasn't it? You probably liked that person more after they praised you, didn't you? Nöw I am not talking about praising people for the sake of praising people. I am talking about honestly looking for and praising positive character traits and action of others around you. Don't lie to people. If
they have done something wrong, correct it, but when they do something right, Praise It!
With that said, hëre are benefits of and ways to start praising people.
Benefits:
* Your relationship grows. Life is about relationships. Family relationships, friends, and co-workers. When we begin to praise people for their positive aspects, our relationships grow. It puts them, and us, on the fast track.
* Your leadership and influence grow. Who is going to have greater leadership and influence capacity in the lives of their followers: the one who tears down or the one who builds up?
* Stronger relationships and loyalty. When the person is appreciated and praised, they become fiercely loyal, because they know that you care for them, love them, and appreciate them. This will take you to success.
* Happier, more fulfilled people. I truly believe it is our job to build others up and that they need it. It is a good thing, in and of itself, to invest in the lives of others by praising and encouraging them. Even if we nevër get anything in return, it is the right thing to do to build up other people. Someone else will always come along to tear them down; then successful person will instill in them the power of praise!
Some ways to praise:
* Character traits.
Is there someone you know who is joyful? Hard-working? Honest? Then let them know how much you appreciate that in them. You can do it with a word, or a card, or a phöne call. Say something like this: "You know, Tom, I think it is great that you are such a hard-worker. It seems like you are always the first one hëre and the last one to leave. You really set a good example and I want you to know how much I appreciate that." Simple!
* Action.
Same idea as above. "Sue, I don't know if anybody else has told you this, but your work on the Johnson account was excellent. You have a wonderful ability to communicate the vision of the project and that helps all of the rest of us out in our roles and tasks. Thanks for that. It is greatly appreciated."
* Other ways you can show praise and appreciation is with a card, a gift, or time off from work. Make it your goal to praise at least five people a day. If you can, praise ten people a day. Or perhaps you can try to praise everyone you come in contact with. It will take work, but it is possible. It just takes discipline and a little work.
Any way you cut it, though, there is power in praising people. First for them, then for you!
About the Author:
Chris Widener is a popular speaker and writer as well as the President of Made for Success and Extraordinary Leaders. His brand new book is nöw available: Live the Life You Have Always Dreamed Of - and you can get it at http://www.madeforsuccess.com/live.asp
– By Chris Widener
One of the keys to success is to have successful relationships. We are not islands and we don't get to the top by ourselves. And one of the key ways to grow successful in our relationships is to be "life-giving" people to others. Every person we meet, we either give life to or take life from. You know what I mean. There are people who encourage you and when you are done being with them you feel built up. Then there are others who you feel torn down by. Successful people are people who have mastered the art of building others up.
One of the ways we build people up is to praise them. There is power in praising people! Something begins to happen in them, in you, and in your relationship when you praise someone. Remember a time when someone told you something about yourself in a praising manner? It was great, wasn't it? You probably liked that person more after they praised you, didn't you? Nöw I am not talking about praising people for the sake of praising people. I am talking about honestly looking for and praising positive character traits and action of others around you. Don't lie to people. If
they have done something wrong, correct it, but when they do something right, Praise It!
With that said, hëre are benefits of and ways to start praising people.
Benefits:
* Your relationship grows. Life is about relationships. Family relationships, friends, and co-workers. When we begin to praise people for their positive aspects, our relationships grow. It puts them, and us, on the fast track.
* Your leadership and influence grow. Who is going to have greater leadership and influence capacity in the lives of their followers: the one who tears down or the one who builds up?
* Stronger relationships and loyalty. When the person is appreciated and praised, they become fiercely loyal, because they know that you care for them, love them, and appreciate them. This will take you to success.
* Happier, more fulfilled people. I truly believe it is our job to build others up and that they need it. It is a good thing, in and of itself, to invest in the lives of others by praising and encouraging them. Even if we nevër get anything in return, it is the right thing to do to build up other people. Someone else will always come along to tear them down; then successful person will instill in them the power of praise!
Some ways to praise:
* Character traits.
Is there someone you know who is joyful? Hard-working? Honest? Then let them know how much you appreciate that in them. You can do it with a word, or a card, or a phöne call. Say something like this: "You know, Tom, I think it is great that you are such a hard-worker. It seems like you are always the first one hëre and the last one to leave. You really set a good example and I want you to know how much I appreciate that." Simple!
* Action.
Same idea as above. "Sue, I don't know if anybody else has told you this, but your work on the Johnson account was excellent. You have a wonderful ability to communicate the vision of the project and that helps all of the rest of us out in our roles and tasks. Thanks for that. It is greatly appreciated."
* Other ways you can show praise and appreciation is with a card, a gift, or time off from work. Make it your goal to praise at least five people a day. If you can, praise ten people a day. Or perhaps you can try to praise everyone you come in contact with. It will take work, but it is possible. It just takes discipline and a little work.
Any way you cut it, though, there is power in praising people. First for them, then for you!
About the Author:
Chris Widener is a popular speaker and writer as well as the President of Made for Success and Extraordinary Leaders. His brand new book is nöw available: Live the Life You Have Always Dreamed Of - and you can get it at http://www.madeforsuccess.com/live.asp
ACTION IS REQUIRED IF YOU WANT TO BE SUCCESSFUL
-------------------------------------------------
The only way to start to improve your life is to start. Once you're sure you're on the right road there is no need to plan your journey too far ahead. Don't burden yourself with doubts and fears as to the obstacles that may bar your progress. You can only take one step at a time.
You don't need to know all the answers in advance. Just maintain a clear idea of the goal you want to reach and the answers will come in their own time.
If you can get up the courage to begin, you'll have the courage to succeed.
It's the job you never start that takes the longest to finish. Go after what you want and you'll get it. Eighty percent of success is showing up.
©2006 by Max Steingart
The only way to start to improve your life is to start. Once you're sure you're on the right road there is no need to plan your journey too far ahead. Don't burden yourself with doubts and fears as to the obstacles that may bar your progress. You can only take one step at a time.
You don't need to know all the answers in advance. Just maintain a clear idea of the goal you want to reach and the answers will come in their own time.
If you can get up the courage to begin, you'll have the courage to succeed.
It's the job you never start that takes the longest to finish. Go after what you want and you'll get it. Eighty percent of success is showing up.
©2006 by Max Steingart
Monday, January 09, 2006
Inspiring The Flow
------------------------------------------------
Carnelian
Throughout history, human beings have been fascinated by artifacts representing surrogate flesh and fire. One such item, a simple red quartz known as carnelian, has traditionally not only been perceived as a means to heal the body, but also as a bearer of life-giving iron, which is said to stimulate the flow of blood. This crystalline gem, which can vary in color from translucent red to a bright opaque orange, has signified many things to many cultures. To this day, however, carnelian represents drive, success, and inner strength.
In ancient Egypt, carnelian protected the dead in the afterlife and ensured that the soul would pass into the next world. Middle Easterners, Greeks, and Romans used the stone to bolster courage. Today, many individuals continue to look toward carnelian to bring good luck and opportunity, increase motivation, lessen physical stress, and increase physical and mental endurance. Often called the "self esteem stone," carnelian can help the timid and anxious overcome a lack of self-confidence or an inability to make decisions. It can also inspire a positive sense of connection with past experiences. Wearing the stone in jewelry can awaken latent talents and encourage creative visualization that opens new doors and brings new joys. Simply exposing one's physical self to the gem can help the body's energy fields flow more freely, thus healing many physical ailments. Crystal healers recommend placing the gem over a diseased, toxic, or unbalanced part of the body to initiate the healing process and increase blood flow to the area. Meditating while holding carnelian in each hand can help you become more conscious of your body's energy fields while stimulating the circulatory system and filling you with a delicious sense of warmth.
Carnelian is a grounding gem, yet is intimately connected to the second chakra. This gives it the unique ability to calm your mind and dispel fear while increasing ambition and creativity. This stone also has the ability to clear blockages within the body. As it comes into contact with the body, it enhances both physical energy and mental power, spreading soothing, healing heat throughout the body and simultaneously opening the heart. When you wear or interact with carnelian, you may find that energy can once again freely flow through you.
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Carnelian
Throughout history, human beings have been fascinated by artifacts representing surrogate flesh and fire. One such item, a simple red quartz known as carnelian, has traditionally not only been perceived as a means to heal the body, but also as a bearer of life-giving iron, which is said to stimulate the flow of blood. This crystalline gem, which can vary in color from translucent red to a bright opaque orange, has signified many things to many cultures. To this day, however, carnelian represents drive, success, and inner strength.
In ancient Egypt, carnelian protected the dead in the afterlife and ensured that the soul would pass into the next world. Middle Easterners, Greeks, and Romans used the stone to bolster courage. Today, many individuals continue to look toward carnelian to bring good luck and opportunity, increase motivation, lessen physical stress, and increase physical and mental endurance. Often called the "self esteem stone," carnelian can help the timid and anxious overcome a lack of self-confidence or an inability to make decisions. It can also inspire a positive sense of connection with past experiences. Wearing the stone in jewelry can awaken latent talents and encourage creative visualization that opens new doors and brings new joys. Simply exposing one's physical self to the gem can help the body's energy fields flow more freely, thus healing many physical ailments. Crystal healers recommend placing the gem over a diseased, toxic, or unbalanced part of the body to initiate the healing process and increase blood flow to the area. Meditating while holding carnelian in each hand can help you become more conscious of your body's energy fields while stimulating the circulatory system and filling you with a delicious sense of warmth.
Carnelian is a grounding gem, yet is intimately connected to the second chakra. This gives it the unique ability to calm your mind and dispel fear while increasing ambition and creativity. This stone also has the ability to clear blockages within the body. As it comes into contact with the body, it enhances both physical energy and mental power, spreading soothing, healing heat throughout the body and simultaneously opening the heart. When you wear or interact with carnelian, you may find that energy can once again freely flow through you.
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Discuss this article and share your opinion
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