Blanco's Perspective

Free Blogging Course. Mark Joyner Does It Again

2007-12-20T17:15:00.001-08:00

I'm evaluating a multi-media course on blogging from the folks at Simpleology. For a while, they're letting you snag it for free if you post about it on your blog.

It covers:

The best blogging techniques.
How to get traffic to your blog.
How to turn your blog into money.

I'll let you know what I think once I've had a chance to check it out. Meanwhile, go grab yours while it's still free.

A Life Worth Living

2006-01-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

The true way to soften one's troubles is to solace those of others.

-- Madame De Maintenon

This quote is dedicated to Chandira, a gentle soul full of Hope.

Your Own Potential

2006-01-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.

--Unknown

Enhancing Your Teenage Daughter's Self Esteem

2006-01-09T16:18:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

The teen years are some of the most difficult for both boys and girls. However, studies show that as teen boys enter puberty, their confidence is likely in increase. On the other hand, girls' confidence and feelings of self-esteem are likely to take a downhill slide. The repercussions of this can be damaging at best and destructive at worst. Girls who do not feel good about themselves are more likely to suffer from depression and engage in self-destructive behavior that can range from eating disorders, to cutting, to risky sexual behaviors. Obviously, doing whatever you can to keep your daughter feeling good about herself is a good idea. The following tips are by no means all exhaustive, but they are a starting point.

Be a Good Role Model

Parents have a difficult job with a lot of responsibility. However, one of the best things parents can do for their children is to set a good example. Mothers and fathers are equally important in children's lives, regardless of the family living situation. When fathers have solid relationships with their daughters and show that they love them, girls will be less likely to seek male attention elsewhere. Even though it can be very difficult and trying at times to communicate with your teenage daughter, do your best to constantly let her know that you are available and that you love her. This goes for both fathers and mothers. Mothers' roles are also important. If mothers demonstrate healthy ways of expressing emotions, emotional independence, and other positive attributes, it will demonstrate to teen girls that they can speak up for their needs without having to find destructive ways of getting them met.

Be Available

You've probably heard it time and time again, but research continues to show that teens who feel their parents are interested and involved in their lives are much less likely to engage in dangerous or negative behaviors. Even if it seems your teen is ignoring you, she probably isn't. It's more likely that she is listening, but also trying to assert her independence as she navigates her way through increasing self reliance and the fears that come with this. Teens are at a difficult crossroad between becoming more and more independent, while at the same time having feelings of not wanting to leave home when the time comes, fears of college, fears of making a living, and all the other insecurities that come with the responsibilities of maturity. You can help alleviate these fears by making an ongoing effort to show your daughter that you are available. This way, she can come to you when she is ready. But if she's not getting the message that you are there for her, she will instead turn to her peers, boyfriends, substances, or other methods of dealing with her emotions.

Show Your Daughter that You have Confidence in Her

As appropriate, find means to show your daughter that you have confidence in her abilities, dreams, and achievements. Encourage her in what she does well, and encourage her to try new things. Showing that you have confidence in her ability to take on new challenges will help her feel more confident in herself. She will need to face new situations on a regular basis during the teen and early adult years, and having a support team can make this much easier for her. Also consider teaching or showing her ways she can build her confidence, such as taking a stand against gossip, school bullies, and pressures to do things she doesn't want to do. Peer pressure at this age can be enormous, and when your daughter has the tools and the back-up plan (you) to deal with it, she can start to gain confidence in her successes.

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Anthony White: I am always thirsty for knowledge & eager to share it. Please visit me at http://zenblanco.blogspot.com & http://atraffic.blogspot.com or check out my favorite online earning opportunity at: http://www.CashMoney4You.com/pips.html
You may reprint this article, provided that no changes are made and this resource box is included.
_____________

New Ideas

2006-01-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

Man's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions.

--Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

Do You Have Low Self Esteem?

2006-01-06T15:36:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

Low self esteem can be devastating to an individual's personal, work, and scholastic life. The constant feeling of inadequacy and unworthiness can undermine attempts to succeed at even the smallest things. If you find yourself plagued with such feelings, you may need to ask "Do I have low self esteem?" Self esteem is your own view of yourself, your capabilities, and your attributes. It is impossible to succeed in life if you are constantly second guessing and berating yourself over the tiniest detail. Many individuals suffer from low self esteem, so you are certainly not alone. Some individuals have recently begun to question their self esteem while others have been doing so their entire lives. Whatever your situation, honestly answering these questions will give you a great deal of insight into how you view yourself.

Are you nervous or awkward around other individuals? These people can be coworkers, friends, family members, or even strangers on the street. Do you ever look at anyone and think you are not on the same "level" as they are physically, mentally, or athletically? Do you see yourself as the least important member of your family, group of friends, or office? These persistent feelings can erode your self esteem. Most likely, you are the only one who thinks these things. Ask your friends, coworkers, and family members about your performance, attitude, and personality. More than likely, you will be pleasantly surprised. Remember to rank your own needs up there with the needs of others. Quite often, individuals with low self esteem strive to please everyone but themselves in order to make themselves feel more adequate. This act usually backfires since your focus is on those surrounding you instead of yourself. Dig deep and figure out your own needs. Focusing on yourself for a while will allow you to identify the root cause of your self esteem issues so that you can begin conquering them.

Do you worry or obsess about your physical appearance? Are you constantly trying to change your appearance for what you think is the better? These feelings of inadequacy are quite common, especially among children and women. Often, individuals notice certain qualities about themselves as children due to comments by a friend, family member, or school mate. These feelings harbor themselves inside, making them stronger and deeper-rooted. Some individuals obsess about their weight, height, statue, bone structure, facial features, hair, and any thing else under the sun. These issues can become the root of serious problems, including eating disorders. Even the most beautiful people in the world have some feelings of inadequacy about their outward appearance. The people society deems beautiful or perfect have secret issues about their own appearance or body, so you are definitely not alone. Instead of constantly worrying about those aspects you deem as negative, focus on the positive. If you find yourself slipping into a dangerous or deadly habit, seek professional help as soon as possible. The world has learned to live with you, now you must make the decision to live with yourself. Once you are comfortable in your own skin, your self confidence will soar sky-high.

Do you publicly berate yourself for fun? Is your idea of a good conversation tearing yourself down at the expense of others? Would you rather talk about your failures and weaknesses over your successes and strengths? This is often the case with individuals with low self esteem. Instead of accentuating the positive, they verbalize that constantly criticizing voice they hear in their own heads. Whatever the case, if you find yourself to be suffering from low self esteem, there are ways to rebuild from within. Seek help from friends, family members, colleagues, self-help books, or professionals if necessary. Low self esteem is a problem that should not be ignored.

Life's Battles

2006-01-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

The most important of life's battles is the one we fight daily in the silent chambers of the soul.

--David O. McKay

Cornerstones of Self-Confidence

2006-01-05T14:22:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

Self-confidence is something that all of us need if we desire to do well in life. It gives us the courage to face the most difficult of situations, something which cannot be said of people who lack self-confidence. They often break down when confronted with a challenge.

The question, however, is how do you achieve self-confidence? You can do so if you define your tasks, and priorities, correctly. You then need to ask yourself as to how you can accomplish these tasks. A good strategy is to break your goals into smaller tasks. This makes the main task seem less daunting. You then need to pat yourself on the back every time you reach a milestone. This increases your self-confidence, and makes it easy for you to achieve your goals.

You also need to look at the image that you have of yourself. If you don't have a good image of yourself, and are always tearing yourself down, then your chances of being successful are reduced. Your self image or what you believe about yourself can be damaged easily if you blame yourself for any setback in your life like a business failure, loss of a job or a divorce. So, avoid self-flagellation. It feeds on your negative thoughts, and can easily become a monster. You need to write off your failures, learn from them, and plan for new challenges. This is a positive approach to adopt, and can shore up your shaky self-confidence.

Those who are close to you play an important role in shaping your self-confidence. If they happen to critical or negative, they will have a negative impact on your self-confidence. Your priority should be to distance yourself from such people, and find friends and supporters who are imbued with a positive outlook. Without your knowing, they will add to your self-confidence.

Another issue that matters is your reaction to the events in your life. You should consider yourself a unique person who has his own special place in the world. This will lead to a development of positive attitudes, beliefs and values, qualities that can give you the self-confidence to succeed against all odds. However, there is an inherent danger in such a world-view. You may become too over-confident, and stop listening to what the others say. Don't allow this to happen. Listen to all criticism, filter out the points that can make you a better individual; disregard the rest. This constant course correction will make you a better individual.

At the same time, you need to monitor your internal dialogue. You must talk yourself into believing that you can take up any reasonable assignment. This will drive away negative attitudes and beliefs, and add to your self-confidence.

In fact, the picture you have of yourself needs constant monitoring and care. You cannot afford to let it take care of itself. Your self-confidence, happiness and success depends on it. You need to guard against selling yourself short. Don't underestimate yourself and prevent feelings of inferiority from creeping in. Aim high and feel that you are capable of achieving anything you choose. Write down how you would like to see yourself five or ten years from now.

Make a list of your strong points, the things you do well and the compliments you receive. Write down a few of the things about yourself, which you think need improvement. Think of yourself as a self-confident person and act as if you are very self-confident, even if you don't feel that way. Try to keep negative attitudes and beliefs away from yourself and maintain a safe distance from negative and destructive people.

If you take responsibility for your life and practice these methods regularly, your self-confidence will rise. What's more, it will remain high.

Look Inward For Your Peace

2006-01-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

When a man finds no peace within himself, it is useless to seek it elsewhere.

--L. A. Rouchefolicauld

Check Your Confidence Levels

2006-01-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

Would you like to be confident? Your answer may be - yes; I do want to be confident. However, this answer lacks the impact. It is too generalized. Just like everybody wants to do well in life and be rich but not many ever realize this wish. This is because to actually get somewhere in life, you need to quantify your confidence. You need to define the task for which you need to be confident so that you can execute it successfully. A mere wish to be confident won't take you anywhere. The dream must have a deadline as well!

Self Confidence might mean different things to different people groups. For a child it might mean to be able to recite the poem to her teacher the next morning. For a business executive it might mean to be able to present the business report to the Board of Directors. For a salaried person it may be the ability to be able to make a switch over from his secure job to a new independent venture and so on. To execute their respective tasks, these people need a certain level of confidence, which would see them through. Every task requires a minimum level of confidence to be able to be executed. Do you have a task in your mind to be done? Do you have the level of confidence required? Let us check it out!

Following is a simple questionnaire. Answer these in a the form of YES or NO.

Does it happen too often with you that you cannot make a decision all by yourself and you seem to look for your colleagues, friends, or your spouse to sort the matter for you?
Do you always seem to be in perpetual need of a support system wherein you can feel secure?
Do you just sit and listen all the times in your office meetings?
Do you feel difficulty in reporting a matter to your boss or you have an excellent idea that can improve your company's efficiency but you cannot muster enough courage to go and talk about it to your Boss?
Are you terrified to meet someone new? Is public speaking your worst nightmare?
Do you timidly accept orders from your superior even though you know that you are already overloaded and you need to say no?
Are you excessively concerned about what other people think of you?
Do you fear taking risks?
Do you feel dissatisfied about your appearance?
Are you uncomfortable in social gatherings - being amongst lots of people?

If you happen to answer any of these questions with a Yes, you may to have a confidence crisis that might become an obstacle in successfully executing your tasks. Don't Panic, as it is good that you found out since now you are aware of a potential problem in your life. The very fact that you are aware of your confidence rating makes you ready to take further action and work towards eliminating the negative effects of low confidence levels and work towards building your self confidence.

Here are some more questions you may answer.

Have you accomplished anything in the past?
Are you the one to go ahead and break the ice at a new place or wait for someone else to initiate a discussion?
Do you feel you are well respected by others?
Do you think you have the potential to succeed?
Are you a happy and loving person?
Are you satisfied with your career path?
Are you satisfied with your skills and qualifications?
Do you feel in control of your life?
Do you imagine yourself to be more successful five years from now?
Do you feel that you are a worthwhile person?

If you happen to answer most of these questions with a NO, you have LOW self-confidence levels.

However, a YES need not be decisive and a NO doesn't need to be final. One should strive to constantly maintain the good points and work towards converting bad points into good points. The good news is that it is very much possible. It's important that you honestly answer the questions above, since only when you realize the present status of your self-confidence would you be working towards building self-confidence or maintaining and increasing your present levels.

Your Destiny

2005-12-29T16:17:00.000-08:00

Your thoughts are the architects of your destiny.

--David O. McKay

Building Your Self-Confidence at Work

2005-12-29T16:16:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

Many people wish they felt more secure about their abilities on the job. In other words, they're looking for increased self-confidence when it comes to performing the work, dealing with coworkers, and handling tough situations. If you're one of these people, you're not alone. What can you do to feel more self-assured about your job?

First, remember that you are not your job. That is, if you make a mistake at work, this does not mean that you are stupid, worthless, or that you're in the wrong position. It's all too easy to take mistakes personally, seeing them as a reflection of your true person rather than for what it is: a mistake. Even though it may not always appear so, everyone makes mistakes from time to time. The best way to deal with a mistake is to own up to it right away and present a solution. This shows that you are honest, and by presenting ways to fix the problem, your boss can send you on your way to deal with the issue. Acting honestly and straightforwardly is best for you--you'll feel better about yourself--and it's best for the company (which again will help you feel better).

Another common issue is feeling insecure when it comes to coworkers. Many people feel that they do not fit in, are unsure how to handle conflict, or have an overbearing coworker or boss that they don't know how to communicate with. Any of these feelings can wear at your self-esteem. You may feel you have nothing to offer the group, whether socially or on projects, you avoid conflict, and may allow others to step on you. If socialization is a problem, it will require you to step out of your comfort zone a bit. This does not mean you need to jump right in with a large company gathering; rather, take it slow by opening conversations with one or two coworkers. Chances are you'll have something in common. Asking questions about the other person is always a great way to proceed; just avoid questions with simple yes or no answers.

When dealing with conflict resolution and difficult employees, learning some proven communication techniques may be necessary. Consider attending a course on conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people. In the meantime, remember that the overbearing person likely has a lot of insecurities as well, and these are what cause the behavior. In the midst of conflict, do your best to avoid being pulled into argumentative situations. Don't reward the other person's behavior by getting upset or immediately backing down. If necessary, say you'll continue the conversation when everyone has had a chance to cool down. Dealing with negative coworkers is never fun. Try and remember that your self worth is not dependent on the coworker's approval, even if that person is your boss.

It could be you're feeling unsure about your skills. This one is pretty easy--learn more! Many companies offer continuing education options, will pay for schooling, or offer professional development in house. Whatever your employer offers, take advantage of it. If your company does not have this option, find some good books on the subject. Ask your colleagues for suggestions, or if you're a member of any type of professional group, seek advice there as well. Many of your peers will have good suggestions on what's worth looking into.

Finally, give yourself some challenges. One great way to build your self confidence at work is to take on a special project or extra work. If you choose something you feel passionate about or something in your specialty area, you can show yourself and your colleagues that you are able to produce results. Even if you fail, you're showing initiative and willingness by taking on special projects. Knowing that you put yourself out there, rather than sitting on the sidelines, can be a great confidence booster. And the same can be said for when it goes well.

Always Grow

2005-12-28T15:21:00.000-08:00

There are times when a man should be content with what he has but never with what he is.

--William George Jordan

Building Your Child's Self Esteem

2005-12-28T15:20:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

It's one of those things that all parents want to provide for their children and one of those things that many feel they do not know how to do: raise a self-confident child. Self-esteem oftentimes seems like a fragile, distant thing that we all know what it is but don't know how to develop it. Your self-esteem is a compilation of how you feel about yourself. It encompasses everything from your confidence in relationships, to your body image, to your work life. So how do you foster this "thing" in your children?

We teach our children "honesty is the best policy." This applies to how we deal with our children as much as it does expecting them to be honest with us. When it comes to your child's self-esteem, he or she will know or be able to sense if you are not being honest. For example, if art is not your child's top skill, don't say that his or her drawing is the best you've ever seen. Your child will know it's not, and will not believe you the next time you say something meant to be positive, no matter how honest it is. Instead, tell your child something genuine about the piece or the effort. Make non-judgmental statements such as, "You really used your imagination in making the flowers many different colors." This simply states your observation, rather than a false statement.

Also, understand that your child and your child's behavior are two separate things. This can be very hard to remember, particularly when your child is acting out in ways that make you crazy or that are unsafe. However, when you discipline your child for the behavior rather than the person, you can positively influence and foster self esteem. Why? If your child feels that you are mad, because of who he or she is as a person rather than for the behavior, this can negatively affect your child's self-esteem. Using "I" statements helps with this. Say something like, "I don't like it when you leave your toys scattered all over the floor," which also addresses the behavior, rather than, "You are a slob," which attacks their character.

Let your child make some decisions. Children are in a situation where everyone else is constantly telling them what to do, when to do it, where to go, and more. When children are allowed to make some choices, even if it's something small, they learn to be self-reliant. You don't want your children growing up feeling dependent on others for direction. Simple choices such as what to wear (you can offer two or three choices) or choosing a special lunch item will foster your child's being able to think independently.

Encourage your children to try new things. While there's nothing wrong with encouraging your child's talents--this will help build self-confidence as well--it's also important that your children learn to experiment. Trying new things helps everyone overcome fears of the unknown and helps us learn to deal with success and failure. If a child never learns to try new things, this can create problems later in life. After all, most people do not live in a world where everything is the same day after day. Life is constantly changing, whether it's a move to a new city or starting a new career. If children are experienced at trying new things, even if small, life's bigger transitions will be much easier--such as leaving for college and starting a career.

These are, of course, only a few things you can do to help develop your child's self-confidence. The important thing to remember is that it is an ongoing process. The little things do add up, even if they seem unimportant. This can be helpful to keep in mind, particularly when something as important as developing your child's self esteem feels like a monumental task. It doesn't have to be! Taking time to recognize your child for the wonderful person he or she is, combined with a few techniques and consistency will go a long way toward raising a healthy, confident adult.

Self Examination

2005-12-27T17:56:00.000-08:00

What happens to a man is less significant than what happens within him.

--Louis L. Mann

Building Self Esteem

2005-12-27T17:48:00.000-08:00

By Anthony White

Self esteem is your own personal view of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Everyone has a different view of themselves, but keeping a positive outlook will benefit you more than a negative one. Many individuals suffer from low self esteem for a variety of reasons and need to build their self esteem in order to succeed in life. Remember, the only one who can make you excel is you and no one else. The same goes for self esteem. The only person who can build up-or consequentially tear down-your self esteem is you. Although other individuals may aide the process, the end decision is yours.

People have low esteem for a variety of reasons. Some individuals suffer from poor body image and focus on all the negative traits of their physical appearance. Others have emotional issues that have caused their self esteem to drop or feel themselves unworthy of any praise. For whatever reasons your self esteem may falter, the key to building it up again is to find the root of the problem. Think of self esteem like a house, if you build a stunning house on a poor foundation, the entire structure will crumble. However, if you take steps to ensure the foundation is strong and capable of holding anything, the process may be slow, but your self esteem will be built soundly.

Many individuals look for help for their low self esteem in books or seminars. The number of available options on the market is phenomenal, and you are sure to find one on a topic that deals with your specific issues. Check out your local library or book store and explore their "self help" section for a book that you may find helpful. It is quite unlikely you will find the answers to all your problems in a book, but you may find it helpful to know others are in your same boat and you are certainly not alone. Additionally, you may wish to seek professional help in your quest to boost your self esteem. Often, speaking with a qualified individual can help you determine the root of your problem and the necessary path you should take for the rebuilding process. Perhaps your problems dates back to childhood, or maybe it has recently developed. Whatever the case, a professional will be able to best determine your next step.

A main factor in self esteem is negativity. Negative thoughts can erode your confidence and crumble your self esteem. If you find yourself surrounded by negative people or in a negative situation, try your best to remedy the problem. Often, individuals in an abusive relationship have their self esteem shattered when a supposed loved one constantly berates them and questions their worth. Similarly, a negative workplace environment can lower your self esteem with colleagues or bosses finding fault with your work. Maybe you have a friend who is consistently negative, always accompanied by clouds of doom and gloom. Whatever the source, distancing yourself from the negativity will help you regain your self esteem. Strive to surround yourself with positive people. If you are going through a rough time in your personal life, you may wish to join a support group. Similarly, there are support groups available for individuals with self image issues. These groups will allow you to meet other individuals like yourself and provide a forum for you to share your hopes and achievements.

However you choose to begin building your self esteem, do so today! Be thorough and consistent with the process and be aware it may take a while. You should not become impatient or despondent if you find your self esteem slipping. Remember, you are an important and worthy person and should treat yourself as such.

__________
Anthony White: I am always thirsty for knowledge & eager to share it. Please visit me at http://zenblanco.blogspot.com & http://atraffic.blogspot.com or check out my favorite online earning opportunity at: http://www.CashMoney4You.com/pips.html
You may reprint this article, provided that no changes are made and this resource box is included.
__________

Truth

2005-12-26T19:52:00.000-08:00

Seek truth. Follow it. Reflect on it. Become it. Then forget it. Only then can you live it.

How To Overcome Boredom

2005-12-26T19:50:00.000-08:00

By Fatimah Musa

Being bored is a state of mind when you are fed up and sick of what’s going on or the lack of activity around you. Complacency also contributes to feeling bored. Boredom becomes a great concern when it results in procrastination, indecision and feeling listless and jaded.

The best way to avoid feeling bored is to make your life interesting by not sticking to too many routines. Another way is by making daily progress in everything that you do. You need to pay attention to you thoughts and daily activities and find ways not to submit yourself to drudgery and taking things for granted.

Here are a few tips to overcome boredom.

Change your thoughts.

Your thoughts affect your behavior. By changing your mind about the meaning of your emotion and experiences, you will generate a different attitude.

Get inspired with powerful long-range goals.

Powerful goals keep you inspired. You can’t feel bored at the same time when you are motivated to build a life.

Fire up your imagination.

Create mental images to stimulate your thoughts. Visualize where you want to be and what you want to become. Use your imagination to experience a situation that you want to happen in your life. The wonderful thing about imagination is you can create anything you wish to experience.

Go through some motions.

Change your physiology. Go for a walk or do something physically outrageous. Write down 10 things you can do and start something from your list to overcome your inertia.

Journal your feelings and thoughts.

One of the ways to become aware of what triggers your boredom is to question yourself and take a hard look at it. Observe and write down your feelings and thoughts for a week and at the end of it, reflect on them.

Create curiosity.

Create your curiosity on what’s happening around and inside you. You find life boring because of the repetition or a pattern of some habits or activities. Try to look at and do them differently and get yourself fascinated with other options and possibilities.

Find something exciting, stimulating and entertaining.

Read, hear, watch or do something stimulating, exciting, and entertaining. Go out, see and experience new things.

Avoid boring people and situations.

Get away from people and situations that bore you. You can’t just walk out of a relationship but you can give yourself some space to do things that interest and motivate.

About the Author: Fatimah Musa provides information, tips and quotes to help people become aware that any future success starts with their personal growth. You can visit Fatimah at http://www.about-personal-growth.com or read more articles at http://www.about-personal-growth.com/personal-growth-articles.html

Source: www.isnare.com

Christmas All Year Long

2005-12-24T12:18:00.000-08:00

Around the holidays, unless you are near a shopping mall, people try to be a little extra courteous, giving and kind. Such virtues should not only be seen around the holidays, carry them through out the year. Find something good in each and every one of the days of the year, and share it with others in the form of a smile or some other generous way.

Happy Holidays to all,
Anthony

How To Make Use Of Your Alone Times

2005-12-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

By Fatimah Musa

Many people dread the times when they are left alone. They feel a sense of emptiness or boredom. They start to look out for things to do or people to talk to. Some get into habits like shopping, eating, watching too much television or anything else to "kill the time."

Anytime is a good time to observe your moment to moment existence. But your alone times give you the chance to look deeper and notice the stimulus that cause the circumstances that you have created.

Alone times are actually what you may need to cure your dysfunctional feelings and behaviors.

How to make use of your alone times.

Watch what is going on inside you.

The noise that is going around you daily makes it difficult to become aware of what is actually going on internally. When you are alone and there is no distraction, you can sit and watch your feelings and thoughts. You are able to see those internal pictures that your mind is showing and the voices that is going back and forth in your head.

Being able to do this regularly will show you that your experiences in life are the results of what you see and hear inside. You can then change your external situations by changing the pictures and voices deliberately that have formed your beliefs and behaviors.

Watch those things existing and happening outside.

When you watch other people doing things, you will notice that they do things and act in ways that produce certain outcomes. You will hear voices that inspire as well as those that put themselves or others down. You will witness how people treat each other.

Watching nature and life itself should instill gratitude and awe. Regardless of what is happening around, the sun still rises and sets each day. The seasons come and go. Flowers blossom, and then wither and new ones will sprout. And there’s nothing you can do to change that.

Log your thoughts, feelings and observations in your journal.

The alone times are great moments to log your internal and external thoughts and observations. This is the time to check and measure your productivity and activities over a period of time to see whether you are making progress.

You can use this opportunity to reevaluate your strengths and weaknesses. Check on your goals too and check out what you have accomplished. If you have not written your goals down, it is about time that you do so.

Just Be.

At times, just sit down quietly and focus on your breath. Don’t resist and fight any thoughts or feelings. Redirect and refocus to your breathing with each inhalation and exhalation. It relaxes and quiets your mind. In your daily world of chaos and stress, you may need this time to find peace within.

About the Author: Fatimah Musa provides information, tips and quotes to help people become aware that any future success starts with their personal growth. You can visit Fatimah at http://www.about-personal-growth.com or read more articles at http://www.about-personal-growth.com/personal-growth-articles.html

Source: www.isnare.com

Being Happy

2005-12-23T20:32:00.000-08:00

In youth we are happy for no reason at all, in age we pretend to be happy for millions of reasons.

Master Your Beliefs, Master Your Emotions

2005-12-23T20:31:00.000-08:00

By Steve Davis

Joe makes a comment and you suddenly feel a rush of energy. Your face flushes and your knuckles whiten as you begin squeezing the edge of the table for dear life. Some part of you knows that this feeling is not proportionate to Joe's comment or intention, but something was triggered in you nonetheless, and you're ready to bite his head off.

To be effective as a friend, spouse, significant other, co-worker, manager, leader, or whatever role you're playing at the moment, learning to manage your feelings is a critical step toward living a happy, successful, and fulfilled life.

Managing your feelings doesn't mean that you repress them. It means that you become aware of what's going on inside of you, own your feelings as your own, heed the message that they have for you, and act responsibly.

What is emotional mastery? Emotions are often described as energy in motion. They become problems only when we judge them as wrong, bad, or inappropriate. When we let our emotions run us, we miss the message that they carry. When we stuff them down for fear of what they might cause us to do, they simply lie in wait to emerge with a vengeance later on. Emotional mastery is the ability to process our emotions so that we receive their message and use their energy for appropriate action.

Our emotions are a reflection of our beliefs about life events. For example, if you believe that you are your work and you suddenly lose your job, you are likely to feel an incredible amount of fear, as you perceive your very survival to be at stake. If you repress this fear, you'll probably experience anger or rage and at some point, you will likely lash out at whoever s available.

If on the other hand, you are a person who views your job simply as one aspect of your life, and you know that your inherent value lies in your unique skills and qualities, then your feelings and response to losing your job will probably be a whole lot different. You may just view this loss as an opportunity to explore a whole new path for yourself.

The bottom line here is this: how you feel in any situation corresponds exactly with what you believe about yourself and the situation. Master your beliefs, and you'll master your emotions.

Knowing that you can change how you feel simply by changing how you think about each experience is a powerful concept. If you feel upset about something, ask yourself, "How can I reinterpret this event in a such a way that I can feel good or at least OK about it?" If you have a bill you can't pay for example, instead of getting upset, decide that this is an opportunity to redesign your financial life. Ask for help, develop a plan, and use your energy to get moving on it.

How you think about your emotions adds another layer. We often give ourselves a double whammy when we get upset about feeling upset. Here are some positive ways to interpret the purpose of our basic emotions, set down by Peter McWilliams in his book, "Do It."

- Fear is the energy to do your best in a new situation.

- Guilt is the energy for personal change-it is anger directed toward ourselves, and anger is the energy for change.

- Unworthiness keeps us on track--just as we can have anything we want, we can't have everything we want. So too, we are worthy of anything we want, but we may not be worthy of everything we want.

- Hurt feelings are a reminder of how much we care.

So how can you use this information in your life? I suggest that you examine any beliefs you hold around emotions and the situations that trigger them.

Begin to cultivate present moment awareness as your emotions arise. Just notice them and look at them, not as good or bad, but simply with curiosity, and with the question, what's this energy for and how do I choose to use it?

Practice. Begin the practice of observing emotions when they arise and identify any judgments you might have about them.

Focus instead on listening to the message they hold for you. Then, act on this message by expressing the emotion in a positive fashion.

Copyright 2003. All rights reserved.

About the Author: Steve Davis, M.A., M.S., is a Facilitator's Coach, Infoprenuer, and free-lance human, helping facilitators, organizational leaders, educators, trainers, coaches and consultants present themselves confidently, access their creativity, empower their under-performing groups, enhance their facilitation skills, and build their business online and offline. Does leading or participating in groups frustrate you? Subscribe to the free weekly ezine for group workers at http://www.masterfacilitatorjournal.com/ezine.html. Contact Steve at mailto:steve@facilitatoru.com.

Source: www.isnare.com

Eternity

2005-12-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

If you are happy to ponder eternity then your happiness will never end.

What Story Are You Enacting?

2005-12-22T19:59:00.000-08:00

By Steve Davis

How much of your life is directed from the foundation of unexamined mythology? What if we are all enacting some sort of story in our lives?

Now what do I mean by story? I mean that we have some vision, set of ideas, or beliefs about ourselves that define us as a central character, in what could be called a "myth" or "story" that we're living out. All of the elements of the story have been either passed down as part of our culture or upbringing, intuited, or simply fabricated in our own minds. We then go about enacting our stories as if they they were true, thus embodying the script from which we live our lives.

So now you may say, "yes I can certainly buy that, I'm very well aware that we are a product of our own thoughts and beliefs. So what's the big deal?"

The big deal is this: The vast majority of us don't know that we're enacting a story. We actually think this is real life that we're living! (see the movie Matrix for a great metaphor). By real life, I mean that we're approaching life based on a set of assumptions that aren't necessarily backed by good evidence.

So when you don't know that you're enacting a story, you are completely at its mercy, with little control over the role you play and the course your life takes.

Now to make matters even more complicated, in addition to enacting our own individual stories, we are also part of stories which are bigger than us. We are enacting stories within our relationships with individuals, and the groups we are involved in, such as our families, work groups, community organizations, our countries, etc. Even our civilization itself is acting out a story, much of which we may not even be aware of.

Humans tend to enact whatever story we choose to adopt as our own, and will settle for the best one available. If we don't take the time to create a better one, we'll continue enacting our current story, even if it isn't working for us.

What story are you enacting and is it working for you?

Here is a simple exercise to uncover your current story:

1. Discover your story.

First, assume you are in fact enacting a story - if this is a new concept, it certainly won't hurt to give it a chance. Based on this assumption, uncover the elements of your story. Be a detective, hunting for clues. Look at all your behaviors and describe them piece by piece, until the "whole" story emerges.

2. Evaluate your story.

Now assess your story. Are you happy with it? What would you change, remove, or add to this story to make it more satisfying? Re-write your story - become the author of the grandest story you can envision - a story that truly inspires.

3. Tell your story.

Share your new story with important people in your life. Talk about your specific role in the story and why it appeals to you. The more you talk about your new story, the more it will become a part of you.

4. Rehearse your new role.

Commit to living your new role in some way. Make at least one change that is in alignment with the new story.

5. Explore how your new story fits into the bigger story of your family, organization, corporation, country, and world. What contribution can your new individual story can make to your bigger story? Explore any obstacles presented by this bigger story and refine yours if necessary so that it isn't overpowered or subverted by the bigger one.

If you are a facilitator, coach, consultant, trainer, etc, I encourage you to use this exersize to help you clients re-write their own stories.

Remember, you are the authors and you can write your story any way you wish. You're only limited by your imaginations!

Copyright 2003. FacilitatorU.com All rights reserved.

About the Author: Steve Davis, M.A., M.S., founder of http://www.facilitatoru.com, works with facilitators, trainers, leaders, coaches, and change agents to enhance their facilitation skills, empower their under-performing groups and present themselves confidently to a group. Are meetings killing you? Subscribe to Steve's free weekly ezine, Master Facilitator Journal, and receive the free report: This Meeting Sucks, I'm Taking Over... With Conscious Acts of Leadership: http://www.masterfacilitatorjournal.com/ezine.html

Source: www.isnare.com

The Value of a Smile

2005-12-21T22:05:00.000-08:00

A smile costs nothing, and yet has so much value.

The 20-Minute Break

2005-12-21T22:03:00.000-08:00

By Carol Solomon

I am reading a book recommended by a woman in my Small Group Coaching Program called "The 20-Minute Break", by Ernest Rossi.

This book is based on 2 decades of research testing on human performance. What the researchers found was that our bodies periodically give us physiological clues about how to stay energetic, healthy and productive.

This research describes the “ultradian rhythms”, which are the 90 to 120-minute cycles that most of our key mind-body systems follow. Our creativity, alertness, emotional balance, physical energy and appetites all follow a wave-like cycle of activity followed by a short period in which the body seeks rest and renewal.

Most of us neglect our body’s signs that we need to take a break. We push ourselves through clear signals such as diminished concentration and energy, often overriding them with stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine.

This pattern sets the stage for chronic stress, fatigue and overload of our systems.

For instance, here’s what Dr. Rossi says about the period between 3 and 4 pm. “Researchers have called this period the breaking point. After this point, the arc of our circadian consciousness, which has been on the ascendant, begins its downward curve.

The entire mind-body is reorienting from outer-world performance toward sleep, our inner world of nurturing, healing and restoration.”

How many of us are reaching for sugar and/or caffeine between 3 and 4 PM?

The answer, according to Dr. Rossi, is to start to recognize our body’s signals and honor them by taking 2 or 3 20-minute breaks during the day.

During this time, you can practice the long lost art of doing nothing. Just let your mind relax, float, drift or simply enjoy, allowing the body to direct its own healing and rejuvenation.

At most, you simply witness, quietly and objectively, whatever changes happen by themselves, without acting or reacting to them in any way.

The challenge of the 20-Minute Break is to actually use the 20 minutes for REST. Answering phone calls or email, or switching your attention to another project do not count.

To get the benefit, you actually have to REST. On the days that I have been able to do that, I have felt better, rejuvenated with an increased sense of energy and creative thought.

Although I did NOT want to interrupt my day, it was well worth the investment.

If you are unable to take 20 minutes during the day, the best thing you can do is to take a breather to get in touch with yourself.

Recognize that you are under stress and need rest, rejuvenation and recovery. Instead of indulging in sugar or some other addictive substance, see this as an opportunity to recognize your need and honor it in the most nurturing way.

About the Author: Carol Solomon, Ph.D., specializes in helping you lose weight and stop self-sabotage. “Lose Weight Now Stay Slim Forever," is a practical "how-to" manual for learning to lose weight without dieting. Free ezine, go to http://www.Lose-Weight-Now-Stay-Slim-Forever.com To stop binge eating, http://www.Stop-Binge-Eating.com 847-680-0272 tw@iconnect.net

Source: www.isnare.com

Look Inside

2005-12-20T16:31:00.000-08:00

If you can't find joy in yourself how can you hope to find it in others?

Positive Ways To Deal With Anger & Frustration

2005-12-20T16:29:00.000-08:00

By Aurelia M. Williams

"This is making me a headache!"

That lovely line above came out of my now 5yo's mouth when he was frustrated over the daunting task of trying to learn how to tie his shoes. He blurted the sentence out then tossed the sneaker across the room. I walked over to him and talked to him about his frustration (Heck, getting those loops just right is hard work -- smile). I explained to him that while it is OK to get angry and frustrated that there are proper ways to do it.

Anger is a completely natural response to frustration. Let's face it, life is filled with things that can become frustrating, and most of those things are totally out of our control. What we do control is how we deal with those issues. In this message, I wanted to touch on positive ways that we can deal with, express and release our anger and frustration in positive ways.

Think it out - When you begin to feel angry -- sit down, relax and then try to think about how you can solve the issue.

Talk it out - Talk to a friend, coach, counselor, or a church member. Expressing your anger by talking to someone about it is a great way to get the anger out.

Write it out - Keep a journal about your feelings. It really helps to get your feeling out of our head and heart and onto paper.

Let it out - Find a place that is secluded and SCREAM!! Yes, let it out - you can scream into a pillow, punch a pillow or stomp. Sometimes a good temper tantrum is in order.

Channel it out - Find some creative way to channel your feelings. Listen to music, paint, turn on the music and dance! There are many ways to creatively channel out anger.

Chill out - Try listening to calming music, taking in slow deep breaths, meditating or doing yoga.

Work it out - Do something physical. Get out and run, go to the gym or go for a brisk walk.

Please keep in mind that anger isn't always a bad emotion but sometimes the way we deal with our anger is bad. There are many times where anger can be good and is quite appropriate. At can be protection from allowing other people to manipulate or dominate us. It can also motivate us to take action when needed.

About the Author: Aurelia Williams, certified Personal Life Coach and owner of Real Life Coaching http://www.reallifecoaching.net and Real Life Solutions http://www.reallifesolutions.net She's the author of Journey To Joy http://www.reallifecoaching.net/ebook.shtml), an empowering and life changing eBook.

Source: www.isnare.com

Help Happiness Along

2005-12-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

Happiness can not flourish amid the confusion and the clutter of a disorganized life.

Tips To Become Happier & More Empowered

2005-12-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

By Aurelia M. Williams

In a search for happiness, many people look for it in other people and not within ourselves. Many people feel that things like money, a better job, better relationships..etc will make them happy. In reality, to find true contentment you must look inside yourself and learn to be your own best friend. That means you have to trust, love, and care for yourself just as you do the people you consider to be close to you.

Following are steps that you can incorporate into your life that will help you to feel more empowered and happy about yourself!

Begin to lift yourself up, not put yourself down. If you don't like something about yourself, work to change it. If you can't change it, simply accept it. Don't beat up on yourself with negative self-talk. You're not likely to change for the better when you fill yourself with negative thoughts.

Give yourself positive rewards. When you do something that you are proud of give yourself a small reward. Try not to wait for others to praise you because you may grow resentful if the praise doesn't come. Pat your own back, it is a great feeling that can stay with you for a long time.

Forgive yourself. I doubt that you would keep scolding a child over and over for making a mistake so don't do that to yourself. Give yourself the gift of forgiveness when you make a mistake. After that, work to figure out what lesson you can learn, and use it to make better choices the next time around.

Enjoy your successes. Most people can remember all of the details of depressing, painful or even embarrassing events that happened many years ago. What if you did the same thing with all of your wins? Try to remember all of the triumphs and accomplishments that you've made and keep that memory with you and think about it at least once a week.

Always remember to celebrate your wonderful qualities! You will soon discover that the more you love yourself, the more you will be able to give love to others - and the more others will be able to love you!

About the Author: Aurelia Williams, is a certified Personal Life Coach http://www.reallifecoaching.net who offers a free initial session and owner of Real Life Solutions http://www.reallifesolutions.net a Family Resource site that helps you lead an emotionally & physically healthier, more productive and less stressful life.

Source: www.isnare.com

Think Happy

2005-12-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

Think Happy.
Act Happy.
Be Happy.

A simple formula, but it can work with practice.

Do You Really Like Yourself?

2005-12-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

By Graham And Julie

When was the last time you asked yourself that question? Do I really like me? What is it about me that I like?

Most people spend their lives speculating whether other people like them: Does….like me? Am I attractive to ……? What have I done to upset…………

The upshot is you spend a considerable part of your life trying to please others. Trying not to offend others. Trying to keep the peace. No matter what.

Although you may well be successful using this method, the result is you spend most of your time doing what you think others would like. You are rarely effective.

Just think for a moment:

• How much of my day is spent trying to please others?

• How much time do I spend thinking I mustn’t say that?

Rather than try to make others fall in love with you how about falling in love with yourself. I don’t mean that in a vain, egotistical, self absorbed way where you’re always looking in the mirror and telling others how good you are. But, do you like being with yourself? Do you like the person in your body? If you met you on the street would you stop and talk to you. If you were in need of help would you stop and help you or would you quickly cross the road and avoid you?

Go on Be honest with yourself. Do you like the person in your body?

You see, when we fall in love with ourselves. When we can accept ourselves for what we are. When we know all our faults, flaws and blemishes as well as our agreeable, and delightful qualities and still want to live with ourselves then we have a chance.

When you love yourself it shows in the way you look. Your eyes sparkle, your face looks happy, you smile a lot. You feel confident. You feel comfortable. You don’t try to second guess what someone is going to say to you. You feel calm and at one with yourself. In fact, in a nutshell, you are someone everyone would like to get to know.

You don’t have to worry about pleasing others. You don’t have to worry about doing the right thing. People like what they see and gravitate towards you because the language of your eyes has changed.

All you have to do is be honest with yourself. Of course you will make mistakes. Of course not everyone will like what they see. But if you focus on being honest with yourself, on working with the real you, then gradually, as you gain more and more experience, there will be less and less mistakes.

There is a little secret. The secret is; as you become more and more at one with yourself, you become more and more composed and unruffled when you are with others.

But the best bit is: as you feel less anxious, less tense and peaceful you become happier.

Yes, you got it. The more contented you are with yourself. The more peaceful you become, the Happier you become. And it is that peace and happiness that shows on your face and then attracts others to you.

See, it’s simple. All you have to do is like the real you.

Stop thinking to yourself I mustn’t hurt that person. I don’t want to upset them. What can I do to keep them happy? Just focus on YOU.

In other words, stop banging your head against the wall, focus on the real you and do what’s best for you and watch your relationships improve.

Good Luck

Graham and Julie

www.desktop-meditation.com

About the Author: To improve your intuition, initiative and energy levels please go to:
http://www.desktop-meditation.com It’s free.

Source: www.isnare.com

Saying No

2005-12-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

Why do we find it difficult to say no when we would be happier sometimes to do so?

If All You Have Is A Hammer Everything Starts To Look Like A Nail

2005-12-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

By Graham And Julie

We were watching the film Mulholland Drive yesterday and it suddenly hit us like a bolt of lightening. How many times we misdiagnose a situation. How many times we carry on a path not knowing that our assumption have taken us miles off course.

It’s like playing golf and only knowing how to use three clubs and having to use them in every situation.

It’s like looking through a camera zoom lens instead of a wide angle.

It’s like blindly following another’s opinion.

The fact is that most of our lives are spent reusing the information collected in our formative years. Thus, when anything new enters our arena we immediately go to the past to try to make sense of it.

The outcome is: we each live an illusion. We each see our world through some really heavily tinted spectacles. We each act as though we are a hammer and everything that comes in front of us is a nail.

The problem is. IT DOESN’T WORK.

We were amazed how easily we fell into the trap. How easily we interpreted what was happening before our eyes and made it logical. How easily we searched for closure.

To make us comfortable we wanted to put things into a comfortable category. We wanted to place happenings in a box in the same way a librarian codes books for easy access. Ah! That goes in the family box. That is rude behaviour. That is unacceptable in public. That shows he is uneducated etc etc etc…

Yes, you could argue that this form of coding is important in life because it helps us get through life quickly.

BUT!!!

Why do we like to put ourselves and others into ‘psychological boxes’? What is it about us that we like to say we are this type of person or that? Why do we want to limit ourselves? Why do we want to sell ourselves short?

It’s like being a carpenter who only has a hammer in his toolbox. We are restricting ourselves beyond belief. Just imagine how restricting it would be if you only had a hammer in your toolbox? How can you get passionate about anything if all you are capable of is knocking the brains out of any information that comes your way?

How do you find out what you were brought onto this planet to do if all you can do is respond in the same way to whatever is put in front of you.

How do you develop and grow your children if all they see is the same behaviour irrespective of the problem posed.

How do you rise to the challenges of our society if all you do is apply the same reasoning even though it doesn’t fit?

As Howard Schatz. The famous New York dance photographer stated in one of his books:

“I told each dancer that when it was easy, it had probably been done before, probably many times. I explained that only when it was so hard that it was nearly impossible were we perhaps close to getting something unique and extraordinary.”

Is this why we like to categorise situations and people? We actually don’t like hard work.

Is it that we don’t like the pressure of being our true selves? Because to do that we have to stand out?

Is it that we can’t cope with being unique and extraordinary, so we just want to be similar and ordinary?

Is it that we are afraid of who we might be? Are we afraid that we can be successful? Afraid that if we admit to ourselves that we have talent we might have to do something with our lives?

Is it that we don’t really want to find out who we really are and what we are capable of?

We don’t know about you but we want to be unique, we want to find out and use our uniqueness. We want to be fulfilled. We want to find our energy source that is released when we are doing what we are intended to do. We want to be in the flow, as some writers describe it.

We have come to realise that what stops us from being in the flow all the time. What stops us from releasing our passion. What stops us from behaving naturally. What makes us waste energy.

FEAR.

Fear keeps us placing people and situations into categories.

Fear stops us from leading ourselves.

Fear stops us from letting go of the past.

Fear keeps our habitual patterns in place.

Being frightened and feeling second best stop us from finding our true selves.

Fear buries the natural me.

“A musician must make music, and artists must paint,
a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself.
What a man can be, he must be”
(Maslow)

What about you?

Good Luck

Graham and Julie

About the Author: To improve your intuition, initiative and energy levels please go to:
http://www.desktop-meditation.com It’s free.

Source: www.isnare.com

Boredom

2005-12-15T21:56:00.000-08:00

Why, when boredom can be removed by positive thought or action, is it so difficult to make the effort?

How Do You Deal With Adversity

2005-12-15T21:53:00.000-08:00

By Deanna Mascle

"We shall draw from the heart of suffering itself the means of inspiration and survival."

~ Winston Churchill

I remember reading some time ago about a study of longevity in humans. There has been a large body of scientific research into the reasons why some people are long-lived but of course while various diets, health regimes, and regional or ethnic differences are often linked to living long it is a very difficult cause and effect relationship to determine because there are so many other variables involved. However the study I remember didn't spend as much time on health and diet as many others. The researchers spent time observing and interviewing a number of people who are living long lives to determine what common factors these very diverse people shared.

Do you know what the single largest factor they all shared -- the trait that the researchers determined played the largest role in their long lives? It wasn't a specific food or faith or daily activity. It was simply the way these folks dealt with adversity.

The ways that these folks dealt with adversity did vary. Some had great religious faith, others had an unquenchable zest for life, and others had a great determination that they could and would overcome and difficulty.

If you think about it then this does seem to make sense. After all, the longer you live then the more adversity you must overcome. Human life is fraught with adversity -- both physical and emotional -- although each person's experience varies greatly. In order to survive adversity, to overcome loss and difficulty, and to succeed in life a person must have inner resources to draw from.

As Oliver Wendell Holmes says: "If I had a formula for bypassing trouble, I would not pass it round. Trouble creates a capacity to handle it. I don't embrace trouble; that's as bad as treating it as an enemy. But I do say meet it as a friend, for you'll see a lot of it and had better be on speaking terms with it."

Most of us have seen the evidence of this even if we have never formulated a scientific theory about it. We have seen the cancer patient diagnosed and then does not even live out the time doctors predicted. We have seen the heart patient diagnosed who far outlives expectations -- by months and then years. What makes the difference between these two groups of people? I believe it has to be a will to live, some inner resource, that one group possesses and the other does not.

A few weeks ago my Uncle Carl's left hand was amputated after being injured in an accident with a log splitter. It was devastating to those who love him and certainly no one would have blamed him for becoming depressed and grieving.

But Carl hasn't chosen that path. Instead he is focused on what he can do, not on what he can't. And if he discovers something that he can't do one-handed then he puts his considerable problem-solving abilities to work on a solution. He isn't simply reacting to a tragic accident but proactively seeking solutions.

He is not a saint. He complains about the pain and discomfort of the healing process and is sometimes frustrated by the trial-and-error process of his problem-solving, but he is not wasting time feeling sorry for himself. He knows he has been given many gifts and those gifts include the ability to solve problems and overcome adversity.

I can only hope when my time comes to face adversity that I can meet it with as much energy, determination, and confidence.

About the Author: Deanna Mascle is an inspirational freelance writer. You can find more inspiration at http://InspirationByDawggone.com and her inspirational ezine http://WordsOfInspirationOnline.com.

Source: www.isnare.com

Recognize an Opportunity to Grow

2005-12-14T21:01:00.000-08:00

Don't resist change, use the opportunity and grow with the situation.

Universal Law Series - Law Of Correspondence

2005-12-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

If your life is not the way you want it, don't blame the people around you or your circumstances. Look inside and know that you and you alone have created your reality!

This is the last of seven articles in the series covering the core seven Universal Laws. The focus of this article is the seventh Law – the Law of Correspondence.

Law of Correspondence

The Law of Correspondence tells us that our outer world is nothing more than a reflection of our inner world – as within, so without.

This is an extraordinary principle and really says that our current reality is a mirror of what is going on inside us. If our outer reality is unhappy, chaotic or unfulfilling it is a direct result of what is happening inside us. If we have low self-esteem, feel badly about ourselves or constantly feel anger, hatred or loathing, then our outer world will be a place of turmoil.

The truly sad thing is that it becomes a self-perpetuating situation – we feel badly about ourselves and our outer world is unhappy. The worse the outer world becomes, the worse we then feel about ourselves, which has a direct impact on our reality. To escape from this treadmill, it is critical to shift our paradigm.

Nothing in our outer lives can change without first making changes on the inside. In fact, the basis for all self-help is ‘change from the inside out!’ It does not matter one iota what we change on the outside, if we haven’t done the work to change on the inside. Our reality will continue to evolve so that it is a reflection of our inner beliefs and world.

In all cases, our outer world reflects our inner world in every way, shape and form. If we desire change in our outer world, we must first change our inner world – our thoughts, beliefs and attitudes. Stated another way, our current situation is a direct result of the way we think. If we want to shift our paradigm, then we must change the way we think!

We have total and complete control over only one thing in life – our thinking. It is not until we change our thought patterns to focus on what it is we truly desire, that we can effect meaningful and lasting change. This is difficult for most people to accept, as blaming others for the things that are wrong in our lives has become common practice. Let’s face it – it is much easier on our egos to blame someone else for what is wrong in our lives, than it is to accept the responsibility!

The truly wonderful thing is that by taking control of our minds and thinking, we take control over all other aspects of our life. This is the key to personal happiness, freedom and peace of mind! By focusing exclusively on what it is that we truly desire, and by eliminating all thoughts of what we don’t want, we can begin to shape, mold and build our lives to our own specifications!
What You Can Do

There are three things that you can start doing immediately that will help you to begin to build the life you desire:

1. Take a hard and objective look at your current reality - career, relationships, health and financial situation. Ask yourself the question “How are my inner thoughts and attitudes being reflected in my outer world?”

2. Take full responsibility for whatever is happening in your life, be it good or bad. Begin today by making the choice to change your thinking.

3. Begin to visualize the world that you truly desire and focus your thoughts on this. Ask yourself the question “In order to achieve this ‘outer world’, what changes will I need to make internally?” Whatever the required changes, take action today to start making them!

Understanding the Law of Correspondence is the first step towards taking control of your life. If you want positive change, look inside first and remember:

Change the quality of your thoughts and you will change the quality of your life!
About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business Consultant as well as an Executive, Business & Personal Coach. An expert in the areas of Leadership and Personal Development, Tony helps clients to achieve more in life.
To find out how Tony can help move your business or your life forward, please visit his website at http://www.momentumbusiness.ca and contact him directly.

Source: www.isnare.com

Accept Your Limitations

2005-12-13T21:22:00.000-08:00

Why do we insist on doing jobs that we don't feel qualified to do? Accept your limitations.

Happiness

2005-12-13T21:21:00.000-08:00

By Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

Some people believe that achieving happiness is the purpose of life, yet the pursuit of happiness often leads to unhappiness. This is because happiness is actually a consequence of a different life purpose – the pursuit of evolving our souls in our ability to love ourselves and others.

When achieving happiness is your goal, you might pursue this in three different ways:

1) You might pursue momentary pleasure, believing that your happiness is the same as pleasure. When this is your belief, you might pursue happiness through substances such as alcohol, drugs, nicotine, or food. Or you might pursue happiness through activities such as sex, spending or gambling.

2) If you believe that your happiness is attached to money and the outcome of things regarding money, you might pursue control over outcomes through spending most of your time working, as well as accumulating and managing money.

3) If you believe that your happiness is attached to people, you might pursue control over getting love, approval, attention, admiration, or acknowledgement.

While momentary pleasure feels good, it is just momentary. Which means that you need to keep on doing whatever you believe will bring you happiness, over and over. This is what creates addictions – the pursuit of what you believe will avoid pain and bring pleasure. The problem is that none of these pursuits bring deep and abiding happiness, because their affects are always momentary.

True happiness is not the result of DOING, but of a way of BEING. Rather than being a result of the momentary pleasures of the outside world, it is the result of your intention to evolve daily as a loving human being.

What does this mean?

This means that ongoing happiness is the result of choosing the spiritual path of kindness, compassion, understanding, and acceptance.

Yet it is not enough to express kindness and compassion toward others. Many have tried this and still end up feeling empty and angry when the deep happiness they desire continues to elude them.

The path toward happiness sarts with opening to learning about what is most loving and compassionate toward YOURSELF. You can have all the things that people believe will bring happiness – money, a good relationship, a family, work you enjoy – yet if you are critical and judgmental toward yourself instead of accepting and compassionate with yourself, you will not feel happy.

Imagine a child who seemingly has everything – tons of toys, the best schools, great vacations, lots of friends. But imagine that this child has parents who ignore him or her, or who are very critical, judgmental and controlling of him or her. This child will not be happy, no matter how many external things he or she has.

Imagine that this child is you – the feelings within you. How are you treating this child? How do you treat your feelings? Do you ignore your feelings and cover them over with substance or process addictions? Are you judgmental of yourself, constantly telling yourself that you are not good enough, that you are inadequate in some way?

Ignoring yourself or judging yourself will always lead to unhappiness, so matter how much you have in the external world or how loving you are to others. Until you decide to start treating yourself the way you want others to treat you, deep and abiding happiness will elude you. As long as you are treating yourself the way your parents may have treated you or themselves, you will continue to feel the emptiness and aloneness that comes from self-abandonment.

If you want to experience true happiness, then start to pay attention to your own feelings with a deep desire to learn about what you are doing or not doing that is causing your pain and unhappiness. Happiness will be the natural consequence of your willingness to take full, 100% responsibility for your own feelings, and learn about and take action regarding what truly brings you joy.

About the Author: Margaret Paul, Ph.D., best-selling author of eight books, including "Do I Have To Give Up Me To Be Loved By You” and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Learn Inner Bonding now! Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com. Phone Sessions.

Source: www.isnare.com

Free Time

2005-12-12T20:48:00.000-08:00

Too much freedom is a heavy burden. Learn how to use time effectively.

The Importance Of Rest And Relaxation

2005-12-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

By Craig Rowe

Life is busy and it seems each year it just gets busier. Work, family, school, and other commitments just eat the day away and leave you with no time to sit back and relax. However, rest and relaxation is very important. In fact, getting enough rest is imperative to living a healthy lifestyle and when you do not relax and get enough sleep you are putting yourself at risk for illness as well as other side effects.

Side Effects of Not Getting Enough Rest

Believe it or not but the body needs enough rest each night to function properly. The amount of rest each individual needs every night differs, however the average adult needs approximately 7-8 hours of sleep each night to restore their body with the energy it needs to handle all of the demands of living each day. However, most individuals cut back on their sleep to pack more activities into their day. Unfortunately, this runs the body down allowing more viruses and diseases to attack the body because the immune system is not functioning as well as it should. Then, the individual gets sick and misses days or even weeks of all of those important activities. When you get enough rest your body runs as it should and your immune system is stronger and able to fight off infections more easily.

Also, when you don’t get enough rest you have difficult concentrating, thinking clearly, and even remembering things. You might not notice this at first or blame it on your busy schedule, but the more sleep you miss and rest you miss out on the more pronounced this symptoms will become.

In addition, a lack of rest and relaxation can really work a number on your mood. It is a scientific fact that when individuals miss out on good nightly rest their personality is affected and they are generally more grumpy, less patient, and snap easier. As a result, missing out on rest to fit in all those activities might make you a bear to be around, which is not much fun at all.
So, the next time you think it is a good idea to stay up late to complete a task or hang out with friends, think again. Of course, one night is not going to hurt you, but night after night of not getting enough rest really will.

About the Author: SearchArticles.net features over 13,000 articles, tips and information on a variety of subjects. More articles on self improvement and time management can be found at www.SearchArticles.net

Source: www.isnare.com

Routine

2005-12-11T18:11:00.000-08:00

Why do we insist on the same unhappy routine? Sometimes a little change in life can provide happiness--the newspaper you read, the color of your bath towel, a different route to work, or a weekend away by yourself.

Be Your Own Best Friend

2005-12-11T18:09:00.000-08:00

By Lance Beggs

How do you be your own best friend? It’s simple.

Be someone you love to spend your time with.

Be someone you’d love to just hang out with on a Saturday night.

Be the first person to congratulate yourself whenever you succeed.

And be the first person to tell yourself that “it’s all ok” when things go wrong.

Celebrate your happy moments with a smile.

And give yourself an even bigger smile whenever you’re feeling down.

Spoil yourself with gifts.

Shower yourself with love.

Enjoy the time that you spend by yourself. And relax. Take yourself out to your favourite restaurant, or prepare your favourite meal and dine at home. Drink your favourite drinks. Play your favourite music. Watch your favourite movie. Soak in the tub, to the gentle flicker of candlelight. Or just sit back on your couch with a nice cold beer after a hard day at work. Don’t forget to smile.

Love everything about the way you look. If you can’t love everything then find just one thing, and focus on it. Love that part of you, and remind yourself all day every day. In time, the boundaries of this love will expand to include your whole body.

Tell yourself how great you are. How smart you are. How beautiful you are.

Encourage yourself to improve your life, in all areas. Be your biggest supporter. Be your own cheer squad.

Love yourself.

Forgive yourself for all your past wrong-doings, and forgive yourself for all your future mistakes.

Forgive yourself for not being perfect.

Forgive all others for the hurt they’ve given to you. And forgive yourself for receiving that hurt.

Believe in yourself. Believe in the goodness in your heart. Believe in your ultimate perfection.

Be grateful for who you are. Be grateful for all that is good about you. Be grateful for the challenges you faced in the past, because they have led you to become the person you are today. And be grateful for the challenges you will face in the future, for they will help you grow.

In fact, just be grateful.

And love yourself.

That’s how you become your own best friend. Simple, isn’t it.

About the Author: Lance Beggs is the author of "How to be Happy Now". His mission is to help others live a life of meaning, love and happiness! Subscribe to his FREE ezine at http://www.HowToBeHappyNow.com

Source: www.isnare.com

The Eye of Beauty

2005-12-10T19:40:00.000-08:00

Open your eyes to the beauty of the everyday, the mundane, and the ordinary.

It's All Up To You (Nobody Is Coming To Save You!)

2005-12-10T19:39:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

Everyone is searching for that elusive magic bullet which will lead to a better life. While a better life is absolutely possible for everyone, it must start from within!

As painful as this realization may be, it is absolutely true. Wherever we are in our lives and whatever we are doing, it is because we have put ourselves there. It is our choices and decisions (either conscious or not) that have brought together circumstances resulting in our current reality. If we want to change our reality, then we must begin to make different choices.

It’s an easy thing to say, but much more difficult to actually accomplish. Why?

The fact of the matter is that most of the choices we make are not actually choices at all, but are based upon conditioned responses! The vast majority of people (estimates range as high as 95%) do not actually choose their responses; they simply react to outside stimuli. For absolute proof of this, simply take a drive in a large urban area and watch for the incidents of road rage! "Flipping the bird" at another driver is nothing more than a conditioned response - and is a sure sign that the driver is not self-aware.

The old adage that “we are a product of our environment” is undoubtedly based in fact – as our parents, teachers, clergy and other role models acted, thus do we act. Children learn from observing the actions of their role models, rendering the expression “do as I say, not as I do” totally irrelevant. It is this principle that explains, among other things, why children of abusive parents often become abusers themselves.

So how does one break the cycle of stimulus / reaction? First, by recognizing that we, as individuals, are the problem: only through taking responsibility for our actions can we come to the crossroads and begin to take charge of our lives. Once we have made this leap, then the answer is easy (although not necessarily easy to accomplish), and can be summed up in one simple word – THINK!

Science shows us that there is a gap of approximately .25 seconds between stimulus and response. Before reacting to something, it is essential that we take that fraction of a second to stop and think about what we are seeing, how we are feeling and what an appropriate response would be. Then and only then, are we in a position to make a true choice with our response. In almost all cases, a chosen response will be different from a reactive response.

In this way we make choices that are congruent with our own values and principles and without a doubt, over time, the results will be extraordinary! We begin to feel in control, good things begin to happen and we assume the role of masters of our destiny. We feel better about ourselves and unlock the potential to manifest all of the things that we truly want in our lives. It is at this point that we invoke Universal Law and all of our hopes and dreams become possible!

So stop playing the victim and complaining about how difficult things are. Quit blaming others for everything that is wrong in life – bosses, parents, siblings and, yes, even lousy drivers among others, make easy targets - but they are not the problem! Take charge of your feelings, responses and thinking and most of all accept responsibility for your life.

No one is coming to save you - only you can improve your lot in life; accepting responsibility and making different choices are the first steps!

About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business & Personal Coach, as well as an expert in Leadership and Personal Development. Tony's extensive business experience along with a passion, and gift, for personal development have enabled him to reach a broad range of clients. To find out how Tony can help you, please visit his website at http://www.momentumbusiness.ca.

Source: www.isnare.com

Face Your Anger

2005-12-09T22:58:00.000-08:00

Why do we seem so incapable of facing up to the things that anger us?

Universal Law Series - Law Of Attraction

2005-12-09T22:54:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

Our thoughts, emotions and feelings act as a powerful magnet, attracting circimstances into our lives. Whether these circimstances are positive or negative, is completely dependent on how we think!

This is the sixth of seven articles in our continuing series covering the core seven Universal Laws. The focus of this article is the sixth Law – the Law of Attraction.

Law of Attraction

Simply stated, the Law of Attraction says that we attract into our lives, that upon which we place our dominant thoughts. In other words, if we focus predominantly on abundance, solutions and positive outcomes then that is exactly what we will attract back into our lives. Nice!

There is a dangerous flip side to this law however - if we focus on lack, problems and negative outcomes, then that is exactly what we will attract.

You may have heard of Earl Nightingale. Known today as the father of modern day self-help, Earl, while working in the insurance business back in the mid 1950’s, cut a record called ‘The Strangest Secret’. The purpose of this record was to provide some training for his staff while he was traveling on business. Earl’s strangest secret was simply this:

“We become what we think about most of the time!”

This ‘secret’ aligns perfectly with the Law of Attraction and acts as a constant reminder that we must learn to control our thoughts. Truthfully, our own thoughts are the only things in life over which we have complete control. The challenge is to keep them in control and not let them run rampant with negativity.

For an example of the power of the Law of Attraction, you need look no further than your own life. Have you ever had one of those days, where everything seems to go wrong? From the cold shower to the burnt toast to the traffic ticket on the way to the office, to the grouchy boss, to the difficult customer, we have all experienced those days. It all starts with the way we think. Our thought patterns attract the first negative experience. This experience then puts us in a negative frame of mind which works to attract further “bad” situations. The more we focus on the “bad day” we are having, the worse things get!

The solution is to change our frame of reference. Take the negative emotions and change them to be either positive or at least neutral. Look for the lesson in every situation. Learning to laugh at ourselves is another great way to change our reference point. If we break the cycle of negativity, things will begin to turn around almost immediately.

What You Can Do

There are two things that you can start doing immediately that will help you to harness the awesome power of the Law of Attraction:

1. Ask yourself the question: “Do I focus on Lack or Abundance (or stated another way, ‘Am I problem-focused or solution-focused”)? If you answered, ‘Lack / Problems’ then set out to immediately change your frame of reference. Change your habits and thought patterns to be more positive and solution-focused.

2. Take full responsibility for whatever is happening in your life, be it good or bad. You have attracted the good as well as the bad, so taking responsibility will allow you to make the choice to change your thinking.

Positive thinking on it’s own will not solve all of your problems, however it is one of a series of things that we all have the power to implement which will get us on the path to leading the life we want.

About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business Consultant as well as an Executive, Business & Personal Coach. He is an expert in the areas of Leadership and Personal Development and in integrating these two, seemingly different, disciplines. To find out how Tony can help move your business or life forward, please visit his website at http://www.momentumbusiness.ca.

Source: www.isnare.com

Believe

2005-12-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

I believe in everything until it's disproved. So I believe in fairies, the myths, dragons. It all exists, even if it's in your mind. Who's to say that dreams and nightmares aren't as real as the here and now?

--John Lennon

Universal Law Series - The Law Of Expectation

2005-12-08T20:21:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

This is the fifth of seven articles in our continuing series covering the core seven Universal Laws. The focus of this article is the fifth Law – the Law of Expectations.

Law of Expectations

Simply stated, the Law of Expectations tells us that whatever one expects, with confidence, becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. When one expects with confidence that good things will happen, they usually will. If, on the other hand, one expects a negative outcome to a situation, then the outcome will usually be negative.

Our expectations play a key role in our own outcomes and they also have a remarkable effect on the people around us. What we expect from those around us determines our attitude toward them more than any other factor. In turn, the people around us tend to reflect our attitudes right back at us - whether the expectations and attitudes are positive or negative, good or bad.

Dr. Robert Rosenthal of the University of California – Riverside, has spent more than 40 years studying the idea that one’s expectations for the behavior of another, can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. His years of experimentation show this to be true. In his landmark book, “Pygmalion in the Classroom”, Rosenthal tells of case after case where teachers were told that a student, or sometimes a whole class, was extremely bright and was predicted to make a quantum leap in academic performance in the coming year. Even though the students were randomly chosen from the school population at large, provided the teacher believed that the student or students were exceptional and expected them to excel, the students performed at much higher levels than other students in the same or similar classes, and vastly better than could have been predicted by previous grades or behavior.

The Arbinger Institute (http://www.arbinger.com) has published a terrific book called “Leadership and Self Deception – Getting out of the Box”. While the book focuses on developing superior leadership skills through being true to one’s self, they talk a lot about the way we view others and the way we expect others to act – based on our own internal prejudices. They refer to this as “being inside the box in how we view others.” It is not until we choose to view others as they really are (i.e. human beings with valuable experiences, viewpoints and inputs) that we will be able to connect at a deeper level and achieve higher degrees of understanding and communication. In other words, it is not until our expectations of others change that we can change our own experiences with them.

Take a moment to think about your own expectations – of yourself and those around you. Your expectations exert a powerful influence on people and events, for good or for bad, so be extremely careful!

What You Can Do

There are a few things that you can start doing immediately that will help you to harness the awesome power of the Law of Expectations:

1. Always expect the best! Assume the very best of intentions on the part of those around you. There is no better place to start than home. Tell your spouse and children on a regular basis that you believe in them, that you think they are wonderful, that you love them and that you are proud of them.

2. Practice these same behaviors with your staff and coworkers. The very best managers, entrepreneurs, and salespeople are "high expectations" people.

3. Expect the best of yourself. Focus on your unlimited potential and imagine that you can accomplish anything that you put your mind to. Imagine that your greatest moments lie ahead and that everything that has happened to you up to now has merely been a preparation for the great things that are yet to come.

There is no mystery to achieving success - it is available to all of us. One need only be aware of, understand and, most importantly, live in accordance with Universal Law! Through expecting the best of yourself and others, you can attain the levels of success that you truly want!

About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business Consultant as well as an Executive, Business & Personal Coach. He is an expert in the areas of Leadership and Personal Development and in integrating these two, seemingly different, disciplines. To find out how Tony can help you to move your business and your life forward, contact him through http://www.momentumbusiness.ca.

Source: www.isnare.com

Challenge

2005-12-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

Why do we get so unhappy about having too much to do? Look on every challenge as a chance to prove yourself.

Universal Law Series - The Law Of Belief

2005-12-07T21:30:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

This is the fourth of seven articles in our continuing series on Universal Law. The focus of this article is the Law of Belief.

Law of Belief

The Law of Belief states that whatever you believe with feeling and conviction becomes your reality. It is not until you change your beliefs that you can begin to change your reality and your performance.

Another way to state this law is in the context of having faith. All of the religions of the world talk about one’s ability to always keep faith, as being a key to happiness and success. Whether you choose to follow religious dogma or not, the Law of Belief is something which can either help you achieve success or keep you from achieving it – depending upon whether you live in accordance with the law.

You have heard the doubters and the naysayers out there who always proclaim, “I’ll believe it when I see it!” In reality, it is the other way around; it is not until you believe it, that you will see it (no matter what “it” is)!

Self-limiting beliefs are perhaps the most detrimental of all thoughts, since they absolutely will keep you from the success that you may want, but don’t believe you can attain. There is an old saying that states,”whether you think you can or you can’t, your right!” This saying is completely congruent with the Law of Belief. Let me explain through the use of the following hypothetical situation:

You are up for a promotion at work. You have worked hard and feel you are ready, but do not believe with conviction that you will get the promotion. Perhaps you feel there are other candidates that are better or more qualified, or that you are indispensable in your current role (now there is a misguided belief!) or it may be some other negative thought pattern. If these are the beliefs that you are holding in your mind, it is almost guaranteed that you will not get the promotion. Why? Because your self-limiting beliefs will conspire to hold you back!

The Law of Belief, when understood and practiced, can help anyone to manifest those things in life that they truly want. The trick is that you need absolute clarity on your objectives; a solid plan to get you there and then must believe that you are destined to achieve them. As time passes, you must continuously reinforce this belief in your own mind.

One of the greatest challenges is to persevere and maintain focus on your goals, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable setbacks or obstacles. The interesting thing in these circumstances is that we tend to observe the world from a very narrow point of view - which is that obstacle are negative. In fact, obstacles help us to grow and can be positive! Sometimes things go awry and it isn’t until much later that we discover that, whatever the setback was, it was there for good reason. We learn and become stronger from the experience.

By maintaining faith, by continuing to live in accordance with the Law of Belief, we are able to achieve our goals, although the path may be somewhat different than we had originally thought! If however, we give up at the first sign of trouble, in other words, our faith or belief fail us, then we can never hope to reach our goals.

If you can learn to persevere in the face of all obstacles, then eventually you will create the reality that you desire.

What You Can Do

There are two action exercises, which you can put in place immediately, to help you in this area:

1. Begin to believe today, that you are destined to be successful in whatever areas you desire. Get very clear and focused on your true desires, make plans to achieve them and then believe, with absolute conviction, that you will achieve them. The universe will conspire to help you achieve it – once you believe it!

2. Get into the habit of acting as though you have already accomplished your goals and are the success you want to be. Your new behaviours will influence your beliefs, which in turn will help you to manifest your desires!

There is no mystery to achieving success - it is available to all of us. One need only be aware of, understand and, most importantly, live in accordance with, Universal Law! The first step is in beginning to believe that you will attain the levels of success that you truly want!

About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business Consultant as well as a Business and Personal Coach. He is an expert in the areas of Leadership and Personal Development and in integrating these two, seemingly different, disciplines. To find out how Tony can help you or your business, please visit his website at http://www.momentumbusiness.ca and call him directly.

Source: www.isnare.com

Negative Energy

2005-12-06T17:17:00.000-08:00

Don't waste energy on negative emotions.

Universal Law Series - The Law Of Cause & Effect

2005-12-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

This is the third of seven articles in our continuing series on Universal Law. The focus of this article is the Law of Cause & Effect. Based on the Socratic law of causality, this Law is so profound and powerful that it has been referred to as the “Iron Law of Human Destiny”.

Law of Cause & Effect:

The Law of Cause & Effect states that absolutely everything happens for a reason. All actions have consequences and produce specific results, as do all inactions. The choices we make are causes, whether they are conscious or unconscious, and will produce corresponding outcomes or effects. The Law works the same for everyone at all times.

Distilled down to the simplest possible terms, this Law states that for every outcome or effect in one’s life, there is a specific cause; poor diet and exercise habits result in poor health, constant and uncontrolled spending results in debt and money worries, not putting effort into your key relationships results in poor relationships and all of the associated issues.

The law can also be applied in the physical sense through examination of Sir Isaac Newton’s third Law of Motion, which states that “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” If, for example, you were to hold your hand over a candle’s flame (the cause) the effect would be that your hand would burn and it would hurt! While this is an extreme example, it serves to illustrate the point very well.

Consider another situation which is specific to business. Imagine that your business is so successful you cannot keep up with the demand – a nice problem to have! Eventually, the levels of customer service deteriorate as your staff attempts to cope with the problem. You receive complaints and employee morale begins to suffer.

At this point, you have a choice to make – try to muddle through with the existing situation or hire more people. This is a difficult decision as there are many unknowns when hiring – will you get the right person, will he / she be part of the solution or part of the problem, what will happen to your cash flow etc.

Whichever decision you make becomes the cause – either you hire or don’t. The effect is the result of the decision. If you hired someone, there should be some relief for your existing staff, and customers should become happier with your service (providing of course, you hired the right person and then invested to train them properly). If the decision was to not hire, the effect would likely be dissatisfied, and eventually, lost customers and potentially lost employees as well – unless you can find another solution (cause) to implement (process re-engineering etc.). This is a recipe for disaster which could easily see the business fail altogether – the ultimate effect.

The same holds true with your personal relationships. If you treat the important people in your life with respect, love, compassion, dignity and honesty (cause), you will experience loving, solid relationships – which lead to happiness, fulfillment and peace of mind (effect).

Making It Work For You:

The truly wonderful thing about this law is that by definition then, we should be able to manifest that which we truly want (the effect) simply by exerting the same causes that others before us have exerted and been successful. Let me explain:

If you have a desire to be a successful and highly paid businessperson in your chosen field, then you should be able to look back and study what made others, before you, successful. What books did they read, courses did they study, beliefs did they hold, actions did they take?

If you were to emulate the things they did to be successful, you would achieve the same results over a period of time. If, over time, this does not occur, it is likely because there is something different in what you were doing – some vital piece of information that is missing.

What You Can Do:

There are three action exercises, which you can put in place immediately, to help you get more of what you want:

1. Determine the Cause & Effect relationships in the areas in which you want improvement or success. Identify the specific things you will need to do in order to get the results that you desire.

2. Take action! Make the decision to focus on, and do, the things that other successful people have done in those areas. Half the battle is taking action. It is your ability to actually begin that will set you apart from the majority of the population.

3. Persevere. If you take action and do the things that others have done, you will eventually get the desired results. Rome was not built in a day and it has taken you a lifetime to get into the position in which you now find yourself. Success takes time, so if it doesn’t seem to be working immediately, don’t give up! Stay focused, analyze your causes to ensure you are doing the right things; tweak your approach if necessary – you will get the desired results!

There is no mystery to achieving success - it is available to all of us. One need only be aware of, understand and live in accordance with Universal Law!

About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business Consultant and Business & Personal Coach. He is an expert in the areas of Leadership and Personal Devleopment, with more than 25 years experience. To find out how Tony can help move your business and your life forward, please visit his website at http://www.momentumbusiness.ca

Source: www.isnare.com

Honesty

2005-12-05T22:35:00.000-08:00

Being honest with others can make us happy, yet we are often not honest with ourselves.

Discovering The Laws Of The Universe

2005-12-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

By Tony Davies

Have you ever had “one of those days” when absolutely everything goes wrong? Have you ever wondered why some people are successful, while others spend their entire lives struggling? Do you ever get the feeling that someone is out to get you because everything you touch goes wrong?

If you’re like most people, these thoughts do occur to you from time to time. But what is the answer to these questions? Is it a question of luck, could it be fate or is there something else going on here of which most people are unaware?

The answer is both all around us and within us, and is called Universal Law. Just like there are Natural Laws that govern nature (such as gravity), there are other Laws which govern all that happens in the universe. From the spiritual to the physical to the mental, everything that happens does so according to Law.

You see, the Universe around us is a very orderly place in which nothing occurs by chance. Even though one cannot see the Laws, or hear them, smell them or taste them, they are there. They apply to everything and everyone – nothing is exempt.

Whether one is aware of these Laws or not, they still apply - just like the physical Law of Gravity. Even though one may not be aware of or understand Gravity, it always works. No matter who you are, if you decide to step off the top of a tall building, you will fall at an increasing rate of speed until you reach terminal velocity or until you impact the ground.

So what are these Laws and how do they work? There are literally dozens of Universal Laws that exist, but for ease of understanding, they can be distilled down to a main seven:

1. Law of Control

2. Law of Accident

3. Law of Cause & Effect

4. Law of Belief

5. Law of Expectation

6. Law of Attraction

7. Law of Correspondence

From these seven, everything else flows. The beauty of the Laws is that once one understands and lives in accordance with them, life becomes extremely simple.

Law of Control

The Law of Control simply states that we have high self-esteem and feel good about ourselves to the exact degree that we feel we are in control of our lives. Unfortunately, the majority of the population does not live according to the Law of Control, but rather by its inverse, the Law of Accident. The truth of the matter is that every one of us is in total control of our life, but until one takes the step to determine that they are personally responsible for what happens to them, then they cannot help but live by Accident.

Law of Accident

This Law states that we feel badly about ourselves and have low self-esteem to the degree that we feel events and circumstances control our lives. In other words, we are the victims of whatever else happens around us. If good things happen, then we benefit, but if bad things happen, we play the victim.

Law of Cause & Effect

This Law is also known as the Iron Law of Human Destiny because it is so profound and powerful. Simply stated, the Law of Cause & Effect says that everything happens for a reason. All actions have consequences, as do all inactions. Distilled down to the simplest possible terms, this law states that for every effect in one’s life, there is a specific cause. The law can also be applied in the physical sense through examination of Sir Isaac Newton’s third Law of Motion, which states that “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” If, for example, you were to hold your hand over a candle’s flame (the cause) the effect would be that your hand would burn and it would hurt!

The truly wonderful thing about this law is that by definition then, we should be able to manifest that which we truly want (the effect), simply by exerting the same causes that others before us have exerted and been successful.

Law of Belief

The Law of Belief states that whatever you believe with feeling and conviction becomes your reality. It is not until you change your beliefs that you can begin to change your reality and your performance.

You have heard the doubters and the naysayers out there who always proclaim “I’ll believe it when I see it!” In reality, it is the other way around; it is not until you believe it, that you will see it (no matter what “it” is)!

Self-limiting beliefs are perhaps the most detrimental of all thoughts, since they absolutely will keep you from the success that you may want, but don’t believe you can attain. There is an old saying that goes ”whether you think you can or you can’t, your right!” This saying is completely congruent with the Law of Belief.

Law of Expectation

Simply stated, the Law of Expectations tells us that whatever one expects, with confidence, becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. When one expects with confidence that good things will happen, they usually will. If, on the other hand, one expects a negative outcome to a situation, then the outcome will usually be negative.

Our expectations play a key role in our own outcomes and they also have a remarkable effect on the people around us. What we expect from those around us determines our attitude toward them more than any other factor. In turn, the people around us tend to reflect our attitudes right back at us - whether the expectations and attitudes are positive or negative, good or bad.

Law of Attraction

The Law of Attraction states that we attract into our lives, that which we focus our thoughts upon. If your thoughts are constantly on positive outcomes and good results, then that is what we will manifest. If, on the other hand, your predominant thoughts are on negative outcomes and poor results, then that is what you will attract.

This is based on the fact that the Universe and everything in it is simply vibrational energy in motion. Emotions, thoughts, feelings and objects – absolutely everything has a vibrational frequency. Since like attracts like, it is only logical that the vibrational frequency of your predominant thoughts will attract results that have a similar vibrational frequency. We know that emotions that are love-based (love, desire, happiness, wonder, joy etc.) have a very high vibrational frequency, whereas emotions that are fear-based (anger, hatred, intolerance, fear, sadness etc.) vibrate at a very low frequency.

Law of Correspondence

“As within, so without” is an old saying that perfectly describes the Law of Correspondence. This simply means that what happens on the outside is merely a reflection of what is happening on the inside. Your outer world is a reflection of your inner world. An individual that is unhappy and living in conflict with themselves, will always exhibit negative behaviors on the outside. Sometimes, one can mask these negative behaviors and thoughts, but the true feelings will eventually reveal themselves. Everything in our lives is a mirror of what is happening within us. If you want to make your outside life better, the only way to accomplish this is to change what is happening on the inside.

In order to live the successful, happy life we all deserve, it is necessary to understand and live by Universal Law. The best way to do this is to first and foremost, take control over your thoughts and to stay in the present moment.

Ask yourself constantly; "What am I thinking about right now?" If the answer is something negative, then take the opportunity to change your thoughts. This will start to put you back in control of your life which is the first step to lasting happiness and peace of mind!

About the Author: Tony Davies is a Business & Personal Coach, as well as an expert in the areas of Leadership and Personal Development. An extensive business background along with a passion, and gift, for personal development have enabled Tony to reach a broad range of clients. To find out how Tony can help you, visit his website at http://www.momentumbusines.ca.

Source: www.isnare.com

Insecurity

2005-12-04T18:12:00.000-08:00

We do we seem to be happy finding the faults and weaknesses of others?

The Pygmalion Effect

2005-12-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

By Eric Garner

A team does as well as you and the team think they can.

This idea is known as “the self-fulfilling prophecy”. When you believe the team will perform well, in some strange, magical way they do. And similarly, when you believe they won’t perform well, they don’t.

There is enough experimental data to suggest that the self-fulfilling prophecy is true. One unusual experiment in 1911 concerned a very clever horse called Hans. This horse had the reputation for being able to add, multiply, subtract, and divide by tapping out the answer with its hooves. The extraordinary thing was that it could do this without its trainer being present. It only needed someone to put the questions.

On investigation, it was found that when the questioner knew the answer, he or she transmitted various very subtle body language clues to Hans such as the raising of an eyebrow or the dilation of the nostrils. Hans simply picked up on these clues and continued tapping until he arrived at the required answer. The questioner expected a response and Hans obliged.

In similar vein, an experiment was carried out at a British school into the performance of a new intake of pupils. At the start of the year, the pupils were each given a rating, ranging from “excellent prospect” to “unlikely to do well”. These were totally arbitrary ratings and did not reflect how well the pupils had previously performed. Nevertheless, these ratings were given to the teachers. At the end of the year, the experimenters compared the pupils’ performance with the ratings. Despite their real abilities, there was an astonishingly high correlation between performance and ratings. It seems that people perform as well as we expect them to.

The self-fulfilling prophecy is also known as the Pygmalion Effect. This comes from a story by Ovid about Pygmalion, a sculptor and prince of Cyprus, who created an ivory statue of his ideal woman. The result which he called Galatea was so beautiful that he immediately fell in love with it. He begged the goddess Aphrodite to breath life into the statue and make her his own. Aphrodite granted Pygmalion his wish, the statue came to life and the couple married and lived happily ever after.

The story was also the basis of George Bernard Shaw’s play “Pygmalion”, later turned into the musical “My Fair Lady”. In Shaw’s play, Professor Henry Higgins claims he can take a Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, and turn her into a duchess. But, as Eliza herself points out to Higgins’ friend Pickering, it isn’t what she learns or does that determines whether she will become a duchess, but how she’s treated.

“You see, really and truly, apart from the things anyone can pick up (the dressing and the proper way of speaking and so on), the difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves but how she’s treated. I shall always be a flower girl to Professor Higgins, because he always treats me as a flower girl, and always will, but I know I can be a lady to you because you always treat me as a lady, and always will.”

The implication of the Pygmalion effect for leaders and managers is massive. It means that the performance of your team depends less on them than it does on you. The performance you get from people is no more or less than what you expect: which means you must always expect the best. As Goethe said, “Treat a man as he is and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be.”

About the Author: © Eric Garner, ManageTrainLearn.com. For instant solutions to all your management training needs, visit http://www.managetrainlearn.com and download your FREE personal copies of our training software. And while you're there, make sure you try out our prize quiz, get your surprise bonus gift, and subscribe to our newsletter. Go and get the ManageTrainLearn experience now!

Source: www.isnare.com

Don't Worry Be Happy

2005-12-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

Why is it that we seem happy to worry when worry solves nothing. To reach happiness the first step should be to stop worrying.

The Spirit Of Champions

2005-12-03T18:59:00.000-08:00

By Eric Garner

Everyone has it in them to become champions, whether in work, relationships, family, endeavours, sport, whatever. The key to our success lies in the following 7 world-beating mental qualities.

1. Attitude. Attitude is the start and end point of all championship work. Without the right positive attitude of self-belief, you will not achieve anything of importance in your life. With it, everything is possible. As Charles Swindoll put it: “I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.”

2. Ability. You’ll have a tough time achieving your full potential in life if you try to do something you have no gift for. Better to take time to find out your own unique gifts and develop these. Here’s what Quentin Crisp says: “It’s no good running a pig farm badly for thirty years while saying, “Really I was meant to be a ballet dancer.” By that time, pigs will have become your style.”

3. Faith. The one thing that distinguishes those who realize their full potential and those that don’t is Self-belief. In fact, the strength of your self-belief is the one thing that determines whether you conquer mountains or conquer foothills. But self-belief, or faith, is not easy. It means a belief in something that you can’t prove or be certain of. It means believing in life’s magic. “Faith is like a bird that feels dawn breaking while it is still dark.” (Scandinavian proverb)
4. Industry. There is a common fallacy that championship work is purely a mental undertaking. Much of it is, perhaps most of it. But when the mental side is right, you still need to take action and work your socks off to achieve the goals you want for yourself. Charles Dickens put it this way: “Industry is the soul of business and the keystone of prosperity.”

5. Courage. It is easy to start the process of self-development, much harder to keep it going, particularly when the score seems to be going against us. That’s when we need courage. Lots of it. Sometimes we need a bold David versus Goliath kind of courage. At other times, we need a quieter courage, the kind described by Mary Radmacher-Hershey: “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying: “I will try again tomorrow.”

6. Chance. The combination of all the factors of genuine self-development, such as ability, faith, self-belief, and awareness, are the factors that produce what we call “luck”. Quantum physicists tell us that there is no such thing in the universe as random accidents. Everything that happens to us is a result of our mental focus and our physical action. In fact, we always get what we expect to get, no more, no less. Anatole France described it this way: “Chance is the pseudonym God uses when he doesn’t want to sign his name.”

7. Perseverance. All champions know the feeling of working hard to what they imagine is the finishing line only to find that the line has moved somewhere else. The real finishing line can only be reached through diligence, patience, and perseverance. “All endeavour calls for the ability to tramp the last mile, shape the last plan, endure the last hours’ toil. In the fight to the finish, spirit is the one characteristic we must possess if we are to face the future as finishers.” (Unknown).

In the final analysis, it doesn’t much matter whether you become a champion on the world stage or a champion in your own little neck of the woods. The feeling you will have will be exactly the same: one of wonder, achievement, and triumph.

About the Author: © Eric Garner, ManageTrainLearn.com. For instant solutions to all your management training needs, visit http://www.managetrainlearn.com and download amazing FREE training software. And while you’re there, make sure you try out our prize quiz, get your surprise bonus gift, and subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter. Go and get the ManageTrainLearn experience now!

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The Riddle of Life

2005-12-02T16:41:00.000-08:00

If you enjoy riddles then you should enjoy your life.

Keep Your Mind Sharp, Improve Your Memory & IQ, Impress Others & Make More Money

2005-12-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

By David Maillie

Everyone has seen or heard of someone with a photographic memory. We have also seen or know people afflicted with alzheimers, dementia, and low IQ's. Why do some people have such memory power and others either never have it or are stripped of it by disease and neglect.

Studies have shown that 50% of brain power and function is genetic, and 50% is environment derived. What that means is that, yes, there are some that are born better off than others - Just like some people are born with more wealth than the rest of us (Paris Hilton, Martin Sheen, etc...), but for every one inherently better off rich kid (spoiled brat) there are 3 or more selfstarters that have equaled or surpassed them with hard work. This is the same with inherent genius. This means that 50% of your brain power is a direct result of its environment - what it is exposed to, the activity it receives, and can be seriously developed to even surpass the born super geniuses.

The brain is very similar to a muscle. We have all heard of stories of the underdog in sports. Someone whom has overcome great difficulty, diseases like cancer (Lance Armstrong), etc... and risen to be the best - far exceeding people with better genetics, better training, etc... The brain is no different. The number one thing to increase your brain's thinking power is activity. Just like muscles it needs to be exercised and stretched out.

Dr's know that the way to avoid mental decline is to constantly expose the brain to new activities. Keep it active. Studies have shown that the harder you work your brain the more it will improve. It has actually been proven that those who work their minds the hardest have actually shown definite and marked improvement in scores on various intelligence tests. It has also been proven that stagnation will cause a marked decline on those same tests. This same activity has even been proved to help those whose minds have already started to decline - even in alzheimers patients.

Now, just like the body has many different muscles, the brain has numerous functions and each has its own area or region. This is why there is autism and savants like Rainman. Gentics just like the environment can lead to gross overdevelpment of a region and underdevelopment of others (autism). Just like body builders wouldn't want to just work on their chest muscles, you want to try and expand your whole range of thought for a more well rounded brain. There are many different areas of brain thought like short term and long term memory, spatial perception, logic, some even say there is an unknown area that has been related to psychics and communication with the unknown (studies have actually shown that there is an area of the mind unlinked with any known thought processes that is highly developed (extensive increases in neuropathways and blood flow) that is only seen in psychic and paranormal activities - interesting!

We will not go into how to exercise each of the areas of the brain as there are numerous books on this (a great one is by Harry Lorraine - The Memory Book. Just remember crossword puzzles, college and adult education classes, reading - especially different subject matter, brainstorming, etc... will all help you develope your mind and reach your peak mental fitness and potential. I just want you to realize how important it is to keep your mind active and sharp. This mental exercise will inherently improve your IQ, bolster your confidence, make you and your life more interesting, earn you more friends, and make you more money for all these same reasons, regardless your profession - what have you got to lose. Maybe through brainstorming and streching the limits of your mind you will invent new ideas, products, or maybe even start your own business. This is how we invented our patented headlight cleaner and restorer, formed a biochemical company, and became the number one supplier of TCA peel skin peels in the world. Start exercising your brain today - you never know where it may take you!

About the Author: David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. He is an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests. He has received numerous patents and awards for his research. http://www.mdwholesale.com, http://www.bestskinpeel.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Be Aware Of Your Influence

2005-12-01T16:31:00.000-08:00

Why is it we seem incapable of realizing that happiness is not only being able to learn from others but also living in a manner others can learn from?

All Aboard The Transformation Express!

2005-12-01T16:23:00.000-08:00

By Marcia Breitenbach

Did you see “The Polar Express”? It is a wonderful movie about a young boy’s questioning the existence of things unseen, like Santa, and of his inner transformation on that exciting journey. I think each one of us has the choice to board “The Transformation Express” every day. Each morning as you awake, it pulls up outside your door, and the conductor shouts out to you, “Are you coming, or not?” Will you make the choice to consciously choose transformation, to opt for a glorious journey that leads to all kinds of magic and surprises?

One of the ways that transformation occurs is through a major change. You know the kind I’m talking about, the ones that knock us upside the head and you lie there stunned, shaking and wondering how you will get your life back.

The day of major change looks like any other day. You wake up and look outside and see nothing that even hints at the intensity and inevitability of what is to follow. This is a day that will alter who you are forever, and yet there is no banner across the sky that proclaims this rite of passage.

For that is indeed what major change is in your life. It is a rite of passage, a time when you are leaving behind what is familiar and comfortable, and entering a place that may contain dark and unfamiliar corners. It is a moving toward the unknown and becoming someone different than you were before the train arrived. So often, when the train pulls up to us, we don’t board because we are clinging dearly to all that remains familiar.

For many recently involved in the Katrina disaster, the winds of change came in the shape of a hurricane and flooding. In your case, perhaps this is the day that a loved one dies, or you receive a diagnosis of a serious life-threatening illness. You may be involved in a life-or-death accident or assault, or you are presented with divorce papers. This could be the day you lose your job or financial support. Perhaps the change you are dealing with did not arrive on one certain day. It may have been a gradual process, such as aging or a debilitating illness of self or a loved one.

I recently was presented with 3 of these: a car accident, my father’s death, and the breakup of my marriage. I decided the day after the accident to hop on board the train, despite my fear and pain, and to expand my vistas and who I am as a divine human being. However, I believe we don’t need life crises to initiate healing, because, in truth, every moment of each day is an opportunity to move towards wholeness. It’s all in how we look at each moment and in the choices we make

So, once you decide to step on board the “Transformation Express”, what happens next? There is no formula for becoming the most authentic, most loving and compassionate and ‘evolved’ human/divine being you can be, but there are some basic guidelines to consider. Here are 7 of the most important:

1. Breathe. Change brings stress and fear, and we tend to tighten up physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. TAKE TIME EACH DAY TO DO CONSCIOUS BREATH-EXPANDING EXERCISES. Your growth and healing will be accelerated.

2. Choose the front of the train instead of taking a back-seat position in your transformation. You are the co-conductor of your journey. Each day, face yourself in the mirror and STATE YOUR INTENTION TO USE THE ENERGY OF LOSS AND CHANGE TO REBUILD A BETTER, MORE EXPANSIVE YOU! Better yet, SING IT! Singing brings the message deeper through vibration and resonance.

3. Use the power of music to transform your beliefs and your thinking. Choose songs that have lyrics that speak to the issues you most need to transform. Sing them over and over to create new pathways in your brain. This can help eliminate negative thinking and self-sabotaging beliefs and thoughts.

4. Touch in with yourself. You can’t figure out how to rebuild, re-create and redefine your life unless you are touching in with your spirit, mind, body and heart. If you are moving TOO FAST, SLOW DOWN. Journal, sit quietly with your pets or the sunset, and ASK EACH PART OF YOURSELF WHAT IT NEEDS to be supported on this journey.

5. Take frequent breaks from the hard work that you are doing. Just like you don’t want to get blood clots in your legs on a train or plane, you also don’t want to allow your life and focus on healing to create more blockage. DO LOTS OF THINGS THAT GIVE YOU PLEASURE, JOY AND PEACE. DO ONE MORE THING EACH DAY! Keep increasing this. There are no limits to gifting yourself!

6. Make Nature your best friend. NATURE HAS A LOT OF WISDOM AND HEALING FOR US. It’s as simple as that. Don’t ignore this truth, live it.

7. Make a commitment to help others, to be kinder to yourself and to all you meet. CHOOSING COMPASSION as a lifestyle brings abundant miracles into your life!

Join me on “The Transformation Express”. Visualize your train, making it as beautiful, exotic, awesome, or whatever you desire for that day. See yourself climbing on board and joining with me and thousand of others who are choosing the road to incredible, exciting, light and love-filled transformation. And, remember: IT IS NOT THE DESTINATION THAT IS MOST IMPORTANT, IT IS THE JOURNEY.

ALL ABOARD!!

About the Author: Marcia Breitenbach, MA, is an author, speaker, musician and therapist in Arizona. She writes inspiring and empowering songs that change negative thinking into life-affirming beliefs, thoughts and actions. Go to http://www.griefandlosshelpsongletter.com to get your free life-changing songs and songletter.

Source: www.isnare.com

Obstacles?

2005-11-30T14:58:00.000-08:00

There are no obstacles in life --- only stepping stones of all shapes and sizes.

Change Mastery

2005-11-30T14:56:00.000-08:00

By Tracy Brinkmann

This is a time of unpredictable, unprecedented and ever rapid change. The rate of change that is befalling us however presents a new, and unique set of opportunities and challenges. For some a change will bring a new level of success, while for others, the same change can be a seedbed of negativity. If you’re the former – be sure not to let your ego get over inflated, lest another change be the pin that pops it. If you’re the latter, keep your spirits up and your humor high. I Personally, I have yet to meet a change that did not, in the long run, work out for the better for my family, my career and my future.

However, that is because I learned to handle change, and have become confident in my skills, talents and abilities. So let’s look at how we can tame the beast called change.

**Don't Fight It.

Give up the natural tendency to protect the familiar. Remember just because its working does not mean it doesn’t need to be fixed. The world will change with or without you. You will find yourself adapting over and over again in today’s fast paced world. If you look back 5, 10, 15 years are you the same person today you were then? Of course not because you learned, you grew, you adapted, absorbed what was superior and effective, discarded the unnecessary and changed to what you are today. Don’t fight change – you will quite probably over complicate your life in the battle. You will stress yourself out and even risk making yourself ill. It’s not worth that much to stay the same is it?

**Acceptance Doesn’t Mean You Have To Like The change.

You will note I haven’t said you have to like the change. I am going to tell you though that you have to understand the change and go forth. If you have questions about the change, ask them. Get the big picture, study, probe, read – get yourself a good knowledge base around the change. We usually fear the unknown. As you study the change it will be less of an unknown and you’ll feel more in control. Life is not about liking – it is about doing. Taking what you have right now and building upon it.

**Be Change Wise and Defense Ready.

Balance comes into play here. Don’t change for the sake of change, for if you do you risk valuable assets, situations and relationships. Don’t live your life a piece of clay to be molded by those around you. There are some things that should resist change – when change plainly does not translate into better results. Live your life a piece of jade, firm but shapeable in the right hands. Know what values your willing to defend against change and what values your willing to change.

**Don’t Take Life Too Seriously – Use Humor.

Take the emotional vacation that a good sense of humor will afford you. A positively honed sense of humor will overcome pretense, put out the fire of anger and quell hostility. Using your sense of humor will keep your attitude positive, giving you the ability to take a seemingly impossible situation and make it acceptable. Once you have made it acceptable you can then seek to find the hidden nuggets that will benefit you and those around you. Use your humor positively, be spontaneous, express your feelings and encourage those around you.

Change mastery can make the difference between being inside looking out or outside looking in. Which do you prefer? Change mastery will make all the difference in the world. Is it easy? Well, to some, yes. Others have to take it step by step. But, by not fighting it, accepting/learning about the change and using your humor to keep your spirits up during those trying times – you will be able to take it head on. You will be enabling yourself to help those around you going through their own changes as well. By doing so you will indeed be making a significant difference.
Think Successfully & Take Action.

Tracy

(C) Tracy Brinkmann 2000-2005 all rights reserved

About the Author: http://www.SuccessAtlas.com
Tracy Brinkmann is an goal setting and success counselor. Through his company Success Atlas, he provides goal-setting, motivational & educational material, & training via live presentations as well as digital/audio products. Sign up for his free e-Zine http://www.SuccessAtlas.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Our Role

2005-11-29T18:25:00.000-08:00

Happiness comes about by realizing that we all have a unique part to play in the scheme of things.

My not so eloquent way of paraphrasing the Great Bard himself: William Shakespeare

All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players.
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts...

"As You Like It", Act 2 scene 7

Three Guiding Principles Of Courage (And It’s Development)

2005-11-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

By Tracy Brinkmann

I have come under the personal belief that everyone is a leader to someone. Whether that someone be an employee (or thousands of employees), your spouse, a child or at the simplest level, oneself – you are a leader. As a leader you have the responsibility to develop a level of courage first within your self, then to instill that level of courage in those that look to you for your leadership. It is key to note here that you must first achieve a level of courage within yourself before you even attempt to instill it in those around you. Why? Well the answer is simple… how on earth can you pass on that which you do not have? You will never be able to encourage others beyond the very level of courage that you carry and demonstrate on a regular basis. Your level of courage is the only limiting bar. Raise that bar and you raise your ability to encourage others.

The three guiding principles around raising that courageous bar are:

1. Courage = Controlling you fear.

Growing up in a military environment taught me one thing that I know is fact - Everyone is afraid of something (often many things). From the 6 foot Army Veteran who has served many months on the front lines, to the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, fear is a fact in each of their lives. But throughout history our true heroes were not the men and women that were not afraid, but rather those that faced their fear, acted in spite of it, and moved forward to overcome its choke hold on their lives.

2. Face your fears.

Realize that your fear is going to exist and maintain its control on your life, until you face it. Once you face it –YOU will gain control and your fear will falter, thus lessening its grip on your life. However, let us not forget that the opposite is just as true. While moving towards that which you fear weakens that fear, avoiding it and heading away from that very same dread will empower and strengthen it, thus increasing its strangle hold on your life.

Make facing your fear a habit-knit part of your life. Consciously and continuously take steps to chip away at that fear. Look at every situation or task that induces fear in you as a challenge, or an opportunity for you to become more than you are today. To become more of what you want to be.

Last but not least – this one has almost said itself…

3. Do what you fear and that fear’s demise is certain.

At the risk of repeating myself - do what you fear over and over again and your fear will lose its hold on you. A perfect example comes to mind. For many, public speaking is a number one fear. I have been a member of an outstanding Toastmasters International Club in Atlanta for 7+ years. In our weekly meetings we watch those that would never willingly get up in front of an audience and speak overcome that fear. They do so by taking a little step closer each week. First they get up and answer a simple impromptu question – a quick thirty-second answer and they rush back to their seat. Next time they will give a two to three minute speech about themselves. Shortly after that a three to four minute speech on a topic they are passionate about. Step by step they build their skills and remove the chokehold that the fear of public speaking had upon their lives and their careers. Take what you fear and break it down, face it step by step until you are the one empowered.

Zig Ziglar said it quite well in a presentation I attended, “Fear = F.E.A.R or False Evidence Appears Real.” Time and time again you have thought about taking the action that you fear. Your mind ran through all the possible outcomes positive and negative. Then your imagination, fed by your fear, led you further down the negative path. Thus feeding your fear again. Leading you further down the negative path… I’m sure you see the pattern developing here. Break that pattern! Turn and face your fear! Take conscious and continuous steps towards it, as often as you can, until you are the one with the control.

Think Successfully & Take Action.

Tracy

(C) Tracy Brinkmann 2000-2005 all rights reserved

About the Author: http://www.SuccessAtlas.com
Tracy Brinkmann is an goal setting and success counselor. Through his company Success Atlas, he provides goal-setting, motivational & educational material, & training via live presentations as well as digital/audio products. Sign up for his free e-Zine http://www.SuccessAtlas.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Want or Need

2005-11-28T16:16:00.000-08:00

Do you always get what you want and do you always need what you get?

Changing Your Flow Of Thoughts

2005-11-28T16:15:00.000-08:00

By Tracy Brinkmann

While you are reading this I do not want you to think about your shoes (or your feet if your not wearing shoes). Through the entire article never at any time are you to think of the color, style or fit of your shoes nor the temperature or feel of your feet.

Why such a ridiculous way to start this article – well to prove a point. The first thing most of you did, of course, was think about your shoes or your feet. Even though you were specifically instructed not to, you did it for at least a moment. That is how the human mind works. When you consciously attempt not to think of a specific thought, you’ll generally think of it between 6 and 15 times in a 5-minute period.

This works in the realm of negative thoughts as well. Focusing your power on trying not to think negative thoughts can and will prompt negative thinking. View thinking as a flowing stream of water, actually its more like a strong river. The current starts off as a trickle and builds into a rushing power that can erode the very earth it winds though. You thoughts are much like this river in that you cannot stop them. You can however change the flow to your advantage. Changing the flow of your thoughts is possible, stopping them is not. Changing the flow from negative to positive will keep that river of thought from eroding deep, dark, dismal ravines into your attitude, and into your life.

You can think discouraging, disheartening and depressing things to yourself; or you can think inspiring, motivating and rousing things to yourself, but again you will not be able to stop thinking things to yourself all together. So instead of attempting to build a dam for your river of thoughts, channel and direct them in the way you WANT them to go.

How? That is a good question, and in it hides the answer. You channel your thoughts in the direction you desire with, questions. However, your questions have to be empowering questions. You will cause yourself more harm than good by asking, “Why do I always get the projects nobody else wants?”

You want to ask a question or questions that will move you forward and empower you to take action. Like: “How can I accomplish this project and enjoy the process?” Now you have directed any negative thinking to a more positive flow. This positive flow will encourage action and give you results.

If you are tackling a big problem ask questions like, “How can I break this down into workable steps?” “How can I solve the first step, the second step and so on?” Or “What is the first action to resolving this first step and so on?”

Should you be going through a “bad” experience -- if there is such a thing, for while we have experiences we don’t enjoy, are they truly BAD in the long run? Don’t we gain valuable knowledge and experience we can apply later? But I digress. Let us get back to the topic at hand. If you are going through a “bad” experience, then channel your flow with questions like; “What can I learn from this experience?” “How can I grow from this experience?” “How can I keep this from happening to me again?” “How can I make lemonade out of this lemon?” (Remember Velcro was actually a failed experiment so was the glue that now is used on Post-It Notes – both of these lemons have become sweet profitable lemonade for the inventors and their companies)

Now that you have asked your question(s) really let your mind run with it. Don’t just ask the question once, ask it again and again. Whenever you have a minute of spare time or when your alone driving home, seriously mull over the question and let your mind turn over to you the ideas and actions that will bring you to the positive results of changing your flow of thought.

(Oh, and remember don’t think about your shoes!) Think Successfully & Take Action.

Tracy

(C) Tracy Brinkmann 2000-2005 all rights reserved

About the Author: http://www.SuccessAtlas.com Tracy Brinkmann is an goal setting and success counselor. Through his company Success Atlas, he provides goal-setting, motivational & educational material, & training via live presentations as well as digital/audio products. Sign up for his free e-Zine http://www.SuccessAtlas.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Inner Peace

2005-11-27T16:31:00.000-08:00

Inner peace brings fulfillment. Attain it, and life works. Give it away, and happiness becomes elusive.

Developing Passion

2005-11-27T16:29:00.000-08:00

By Tracy Brinkmann

Passion for anything you want to have, be or do occurs at the very moment you get a peek at the potential for the goal. Whether your goal is self-improvement, a project, a mission or any other worthy objective.

My mission with these articles is to give you a peek at your own potential. A fleeting look at what you are able to have, to do and to become. Once I have accomplished that goal, there will be born within you a spark of passion. When you fan that spark it will grow into a burning desire that no one can stop. Those with a burning desire have persistence and they reach their goals, every time.

How do you develop passion? Well I was recently asked that question so I sat and thought about it for a while and came up the following:

1. Know what you truly want and develop a plan to get it.

During the course of my life a number of pivotal events have developed passion deep with me. The birth of my first daughter, the death of my second daughter, hearing the applause of an appreciative audience for the first time, the list goes on and on. While each of these events sparked a life changing passion, most of the time my passion comes from a careful review of my dreams, desires and goals. What do I want out of life? Where do I want to be in 1, 2 or 5 years? A careful review of your goals (long and short-term), and the development of a detailed plan to attain them will do wonders do develop the passion you need.

2. Daily action toward your goals.

Once you have completed step one, (remember in 100% of the cases I have found that anyone that will not take step one… will never get to step two) and developed the plans to reach your goals. Take DAILY steps towards their attainment. As you take these daily steps, your goal will become increasingly closer, increasingly more real, more vivid and more enticing. This will fuel your excitement, enthusiasm and your commitment to follow through on your goals until they are attained. A bonus gift here is, with each step you complete, each little success you achieve, your self-confidence and self-esteem will increase. It is a like a river feeding itself. Complete a step, feel better, gain confidence and passion, become more committed to your goal then take the next step towards the goal. Then you complete another step, feel better, gain confidence and passion, become more committed to your goal then take the next step towards it. Are you seeing the pattern here?

3. Direct your passion.

The next time you are passing a construction site take a moment to notice the immense power of the vehicles at work there. Dump trucks, tractors, and cranes to name a few. Each weighing tons and able to move far more than their weight across a road, up hundreds of feet into the air or down the freeway at considerable speeds. The next time you see one of these powerful vehicles roaring down the highway, take a quick look at the driver behind the wheel. All 180-220 pounds of him (or her) controlling all that power. What would happen if you were to remove that driver from the steering wheel? The power would be rendered useless, or worse yet would roll on without regard to its surroundings reeking havoc until it came to a crashing halt.

We need to be at the helm of our passion, making effective use of the power our passion holds, much like the driver of those massive vehicles. Effectively steering your passion synergizes all of your great qualities into a finely tuned ‘machine’. Each of these qualities working in harmony with the other. Creating an overall ‘power’ within you that is greater than each of your qualities individually. So bring your passion to focus on your goal.

History is filled with stories of average everyday men and women who have accomplished great things with little more than a passion in their hearts and a goal in their head. Apply your passion to goal, job, profession, family or yourself and you will see the difference between just getting by and real success.

Think Successfully & Take Action.

Tracy

(C) Tracy Brinkmann 2000-2005 all rights reserved

About the Author: http://www.SuccessAtlas.com
Tracy Brinkmann is an goal setting and success counselor. Through his company Success Atlas, he provides goal-setting, motivational & educational material, & training via live presentations as well as digital/audio products. Sign up for his free e-Zine http://www.SuccessAtlas.com If you would like to receive my article on 4 WAYS TO STAYING HIGHLY MOTIVATED mailto:successarticle_7@sendfree.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Destiny

2005-11-26T11:30:00.000-08:00

You can look...and you will find it. You can not look...and you will find it. That which is yours will surely find you.

Solve Problems In Your Sleep With Lucid Dreaming

2005-11-26T11:27:00.000-08:00

By David Allen

Lucid dreaming is dreaming while being aware that you are dreaming. The idea is that once you are aware you are dreaming you can alter your dreams and control what happens. Once perfected, it allows you to control the direction of your dreams. This is an enticing prospect for creative problem solving since when dreaming, you are restricted only by your imagination, not by the “realities’ of physical constraints or social customs. Imagine being able to develop new ideas, chat with Einstein, or get golf tips from Tiger Woods.

Can you learn to have lucid dreams?

Lucid dreaming is like any other skill—some people are naturally better at it than others but most can learn how to do it. To learn how, it’s important to first know a bit about the stages of sleep.

Our sleep patterns follow a repeating cycle that involves different levels of sleep having different brainwave activity. Each cycle lasts about 90 to 100 minutes so a person will typically experience 4 to 5 complete sleep cycles a night. The stages of this cycle involve four levels of Slow-Wave or Non-REM sleep followed by REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.

Although some dreaming occurs during the other stages of sleep, the most vivid dreaming occurs during the REM stage. During this time, the higher frequency beta waves keep the mind active. As its name suggests, REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is characterized by frequent bursts of rapid eye movement, along with occasional muscular twitches. The first REM period occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and lasts about 10 minutes. This REM period increases in subsequent sleep cycles during the night.

How do you start?

One of the first requirements for having lucid dreams is to be able to recall your dreams. This can be done with a little practice. A good method is to focus your intent on remembering your dreams. Before falling asleep, repeat to yourself over and over, “I will awake from my dreams and completely remember them.” If your thoughts wander, try to come back to this affirmation so that it is your last thought before drifting off to sleep. Another good technique is to keep a dream journal to record your dreams upon waking. Whenever you awake, immediately attempt to focus on what you had just been dreaming and write it down on a writing pad. Try to capture all the key points, such as what you were doing, where you were, and who was around you. Also, note anything strange such as things that wouldn’t normally happen in the waking world. If you find these strange events recur in your dreams, then they are your personal dream signs which you can use to recognize when you are dreaming.

Inducing lucid dreams

Lucid dreaming is usually induced by some sort of cue—something that indicates to the person that what they are experiencing is a dream, and not reality. These cues are often referred to as dream signs. Dream signs are usually things or events that would be impossible or very unusual in the waking world. Some examples of dream signs are breathing under water, flying, light switches that don’t work, suddenly returning to work at an old job, or being naked. Whenever a dream sign occurs in your dream, stop and ask yourself whether or not it is possible. If the answer is no, you are dreaming! With practice you can learn to recognize when you are dreaming by looking for these cues and doing a “reality check”.

Once you have “caught” yourself dreaming, you can start to control your dream. Try changing the scene or situation, or controlling your own actions. In order to be successful at controlling your dreams, you should believe that what you are trying to do is possible. So it’s important to remember that you are in control and anything you want is possible. Start with some small things and gradually work up to more challenging activities.

A good resource in this area is Dr. Stephen LaBerge's book Exploring the World of Lucid Dreaming which is based on his extensive laboratory work at Stanford University. However, if you really want to speed up the learning process, there are audio CDs available that enable you to experience lucid dreaming in just days. One program that has had good reviews is Bradley Thompson’s The Lucid Dreaming Kit. The kit includes an Audio Stimulation CD that you play as you go to sleep which incorporates special beats and prompts to help you become lucid when dreaming.

Using Lucid Dreaming for Creative Problem Solving

Although lucid dreaming can be used for many applications, one of the most intriguing is to solve problems in your sleep. Lucid dreaming is a powerful tool that taps into your brain’s most creative state without the normal sensory distractions that disturb our focus during waking hours. Lucid dream offers the potential for truly creative thinking.

About the Author: David Allen is an award-winning inventor with a strong interest in simple and practical methods to enhance creative thinking. Visit http://www.creativityboosters.com for more easy tools and techniques to increase your creativity.

Source: www.isnare.com

Happiness?

2005-11-25T17:39:00.000-08:00

Does happiness come by chance or by creation?

Be Happy And Give Us A Smile

2005-11-25T17:37:00.000-08:00

By Steve Hill

I often wonder why people seem reluctant to smile these days. It costs nothing to smile so come on people lets start looking a bit happier. This article is all about this and about having a more positive outlook on life which will bring positive results.

I am somebody who used to always think in a negative way, I have now managed to stop this and my life has improved no end. I now like to be around positive people, as these people tend to be more successful and happier. In my opinion there are too many people who are always moaning and groaning and are seemingly depressed.

Growing up I had many things to be negative about, I had a stutter, I have a bald patch, I was overweight and am also quite short for a male at five foot four. I was one of the ones who walked around in a depressed state and I used to feel sorry for myself. Even when I write about it now, I laugh about how stupid I used to be.

I realised early into my twenties that I needed to change my approach to life. I was quite fortunate in that I had a friend at the company I worked for, who was to prove an inspiration to me. His name was Stuart, and even though this may seem cruel, Stuart did not have a lot going for him. I won't go into details but lets just say even with the problems I felt I had, I was not jealous of him. I became quite good friends with Stuart and we would regularly have lunch together.

I would meet him in the canteen at 1pm and would be waiting in my gloomy state of mind, with my gloomy face, for him to arrive. Arrive he certianly did, always with a beaming smile on his face. This always amazed me as I could never understand what he had to be happy about. We would sit down and talk whilst eating our lunch and he never had a negative word to say. When he talked, he talked with passion, about his work and interests. One day it dawned on me, if Stuart (who from what I know of him, seemingly has nothing going for him) can always be positive, happy and smiling, why can't I?

This was the beginning of my new outlook on life. An era of being positive, appreciating what I have got and more than anything else, plenty of smiles. I now am happy with my weight, height, bald patch and am proud to say I have now overcome my stutter.

About the Author: Stephen Hill has a number of websites including: http://www.copywriting-information.com http://www.dating-tips-service.com
http://www.eradicate-depression.com

Source: www.isnare.com

The History Of Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T10:24:00.000-08:00

By Angela Tyler

Throughout history, the celebration of a bountiful harvest has been an annual occurrence. Harvest festivals have been a tradition among all nations and races. The Greeks, Egyptians, Romans, Chinese, and Hebrews have all had harvest celebrations, even before organized religion came to be. In America, the first Thanksgiving celebration took place in 1621. The Native Americans shared this event with the Pilgrims because the Pilgrims had learned to plant crops and hunt wild game in the New World according to Native American culture. Without the help of the Native Americans, the colonists would have not survived their first winter nor would they have harvested bountiful crops.

The early Thanksgiving celebrations in America were not known as "Thanksgiving". There were harvest celebrations that did not include what are staples in modern times such as cranberry sauce, turkey, and pumpkin pie. It is entirely possible that wild fowl including turkey and duck were served, but turkey did not hold the sacred place it holds now. It is thought that seafood was a major component of the harvest celebration due to the colonist's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. There could have been seasonal vegetables such as squash included in the festivities, but side dishes did play a major role in the feast. Also, desserts such as pies and cakes were most likely not included due to a lack of sugar and obviously, there were no ovens in which to bake them.

The Pilgrim's harvest festival is thought of as the first Thanksgiving, but in reality the term "Thanksgiving" was normally applied to a religious holiday until the 19th century. In 1817 Thanksgiving Day was officially adopted by New York State as an annual event. By 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared a national day of Thanksgiving, and since then every president has given a Thanksgiving Day proclamation. >From 1939 to 1941 Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed the third Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day, but in 1941 Congress passed a resolution declaring that Thanksgiving was to be held officially on the fourth Thursday of November. Since that time, the holiday has been celebrated on that day.

The traditional dishes that are served on Thanksgiving evolved over a hundred years or more. More than likely, the turkey is the only similarity modern celebrations have with the harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims. Our favorite desserts, such as pumpkin pie, were absent from the Thanksgiving festivities during WWII due to shortages of sugar. Side dishes like green bean casserole and stuffing have been the products of modern times and an abundance of food supplies.

We have many reasons to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day. Our friends and family, our easy access to food, and modern conveniences are things that we tend to take for granted. Early Thanksgiving celebrations were held to rejoice in the gift of a bountiful harvest and the very survival of the Pilgrims, a fact that we should remember each and every year.

About the Author: Are you a mom who’d rather play than cook? If so, you won’t want to miss http://www.freequickrecipes.com. And, if frugal cooking is your thing, then check out http://www.freequickrecipes.com/frugal-cooking.php.

Source: www.isnare.com

The Wonder of a Child

2005-11-23T19:41:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed how when some children are given an exepensive gift, they seem so much happier to play with the box it was packed in?

Holiday Stress Hotspots: Manage Stress With Knowledge

2005-11-23T19:38:00.000-08:00

By Simma Lieberman

There are four main causes of holiday stress: gift giving obligations, expenses, a lack of time, and unrealistic expectations about creating a perfect holiday. To reduce holiday stress, arm yourself with knowledge. Know the ins and outs of these top four holiday stress hotspots and follow these effective stress-reducing tips:

Holiday Stress Hotspot #1: Gifts

* Make a list of everyone you need to buy gifts for.

* Look for gifts you can buy for multiple people. Similarly, look for stores where you can buy many gifts for a lot of people.

* Plan a few back-up gifts, generic gifts with blank cards for people you might forget or who unexpectedly give you a gift.

* Focus on the point of gift giving: showing your appreciation for someone. Enjoy the process of finding them something they'll like.

* If you don't like shopping, plan a single gift shopping day. Make this day sooner than later to avoid the holiday shopping craze.

* Or, don't go shopping. Thanks to the internet and catalogues, there is enough time to order gifts so you don't have to leave your house or office.

* Better yet, take off the whole month of December and go to the mountains where no one can call, email or page you.

Holiday Stress Hotspot #2: Holiday Expenses

* Set a budget, and stick to it. Don't buy gifts that you'll spend the rest of the year trying to pay off.

* Think of alternative ways to give gifts (set up a gift exchange, make some handmade gifts or foodstuffs).

* Choose inexpensive ways of entertaining and enjoying. Have a potluck party instead of providing all the food yourself.

* Do activities with family and friends that cost little or no money: go on walks, have a movie night instead of going to see the latest blockbuster together.

* Give the gift of a phone call or note. Let the people you care about know how important they are to you with words, not expensive gifts. Most people need this type of nourishment in general and may need it even more during the holidays. It may be the best gift they get.

Holiday Stress Hotspot #3: A Lack of Time

* Complete your gift shopping early. This will relieve you of one of the biggest time stresses during the holidays.

* Refuse Invitations. You don't have to go to every party you're invited to. If party going becomes a chore or exhausting, step back and slow down the pace.

* Take time for yourself. With so much emphasis on time with family and friends, many people feel guilty taking time for themselves. Take it. When you consciously plan to have alone time, it keeps you empowered and reduces possible feelings of melancholy during the holiday season. You will also be also be less overwhelmed by external stimuli.

* Share the tasks. Don't take on too much. View your to-do list as an opportunity to spend time with people.

* Share responsibilities and your tasks will take half as long and be more enjoyable.

Holiday Stress Hotspot #4: Anticipation and Expectations

* Be realistic. Just because it's the holidays, family issues will not suddenly disappear and everything will not be perfect.

* Adjust your expectations. Expect a few bumps in the road at family events and gatherings and you'll be better able to deal with them.

* Relish Traditions. Focus on those little traditions that make evoke positive memories for the holidays: songs, events, rituals, etc. Consider creating new traditions if older ones are marred with mixed memories.

About the Author: Simma Lieberman helps organizations create environments where people can do their best work and be successful. She specializes in Diversity and Inclusion, Diversity Dialogues, and Eliminating Fear and Self-doubt. Simma is the co-author with Kate Berardo and George Simons of the book "Putting Diversity to Work." She can be reached at http://www.simmalieberman.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Make Your Dreams a Reality

2005-11-22T18:16:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to my brother Armando Lopez.

Armando is a retired United States Marine, committed husband, loving father and loyal brother.

A dreamer in the finest sense of the word, Armando doesn’t just sit around, and long for the things he thinks he deserves, he steps up, takes initiative and makes those dreams become a reality.

I am sure that many of you and me included have had an idea for some device or invention that we believed would be of benefit to others, but lacked the confidence or determination to take it to the next level. Well not Armando. Armando took a chance with his inspiration and took the steps necessary to transform the vision in his mind into a tangible product that will ensure for the safety and protection of those individuals or families who use it.

I am reminded of the quote by Robert F. Kennedy:

"Some men see things as they are and say, why. I dream things that never were and say, why not."

I invite you to click the link below and see if Armando’s invention may be of use to you. If not, perhaps Armando has inspired you to believe enough in yourself to take your dreams to the next level.

Gas Off - A Home Safety Device by Armando Lopez

Enjoy The Ride

2005-11-21T21:13:00.000-08:00

It is impossible to truly understand exactly what it is that makes us happy, so stop trying to figure it out and enjoy the ride!

Discovering Your Passion And Purpose

2005-11-21T21:11:00.000-08:00

By Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

“I can’t seem to discover why I’m on the planet.”

“What is my purpose here? I know there’s something I’m supposed to be doing, but I don’t know how to find out what it is.”

“I don’t seem to be passionate about anything.”

I’ve heard these complaints over and over from my clients.

Discovering our passion and purpose is vital to our joy and well-being. The problem is that many people have lost touch with any sense of their passion and purpose and have no idea how to access this information.

The blueprint for this information lies within our core Self, our essence, the true Self that is often buried during our early years. If our true Self was not seen and validated by our parents, teachers, or other caregivers, it is likely to have gone underground. The self many of know as our “self” is generally our wounded self, our ego, the self we created to get love and avoid pain. Our wounded self has within it all of our fears and false beliefs, and does not have access to what is true for us.

How, then, do we discover our passion and purpose if the blueprint for this information is long buried? The good news is that while it is buried, it is not lost. Anyone can reclaim this information if you are willing to do the inner work of healing your wounded self.

I’ve worked with thousands of clients who, as they practice the Inner Bonding process that I teach (see our FREE course at www.innerbonding.com), gradually heal their fears and false, limiting beliefs to the point where their true Self comes peeking out. This is the vital, alive aspect of ourselves, the aspect of us that just wants to joyfully express ourselves in the world. As you allow this aspect to emerge, you will gradually discover what truly brings you joy.

In our society, we tend to ignore our special talents and choose our careers according to what will give us a sense of security. Too often, however, what makes us feel safe does not fulfill us spiritually. For example, Roger worked for many years as an attorney, but he never enjoyed it. He made lots of money, yet when he consulted with me he was suffering from anxiety and depression. He had become an attorney because his father had been an attorney and wanted Roger to follow in his footsteps. Roger had gone along with what his father wanted for him because he didn’t know what else he wanted and now, in midlife, he was miserable. He yearned to discover his passion.

A few months after starting to practice Inner Bonding, Roger remembered that he had really wanted to be a teacher. He had never seriously considered teaching because he felt he couldn’t make enough money, but now he was willing to make far less money because he was so unhappy with his present work. Roger went back to school and got his teaching credential and is now a high school social studies teacher. The last time I spoke with him he was radiant! He loved working with adolescents, and he felt he was making a real contribution to their lives. For the first time ever, he felt alive and passionate about his life. His wife decided to take up some of the financial slack by doing something she had always wanted to do: design children’s clothing. She started her own mail-order business and is thrilled with it. Their marriage and family life is flourishing because both of them are happy and fulfilled within themselves.

Ricki came to see me because she was so unhappy working as a controller of a big import business. Yet she had no idea what else she wanted to do. It took about a year of practicing Inner Bonding before her true Self told her that she wanted to be a nutritionist. Ricki hadn’t wanted to hear her true Self because she didn’t want to go back to school. Finally she was so unhappy that she decided to listen. She is now back in school enjoying discovering her passion.

While it may not always be possible to change your work immediately to something you love, if you follow your passion, it will often lead you there. And even when you have to earn money in ways that do not express your soul, you can seek volunteer opportunities and hobbies to express who you are. Often these can lead to the work that you will eventually do.

Alfredo worked as a manager of a large supermarket. With his small savings, he decided to start pursuing a hobby that had always fascinated him - restoring old cars. He used all his extra money to buy his first old car and spent many blissful hours restoring it. He was so good at it, he was able to sell his restored cars for a lot of money. Eventually he was able to quit his job at the market and pursue his passion full time. Ultimately he started a project in a prison teaching inmates to restore cars. Alfredo now loves what he does and receives great satisfaction from helping others.

Your soul has a deep desire for you to express yourself in ways that brings you joy. It is your job to discover what that is and to bring it about.

About the Author: Margaret Paul, Ph.D., best-selling author of eight books, including "Do I Have To Give Up Me To Be Loved By You” and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Learn Inner Bonding now! Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com. Phone Sessions.

Source: www.isnare.com

Community

2005-11-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

All beings fear violence. All beings fear pain. When you see yourself in all your brothers and sisters, then how can you bring harm to them?

What Really Creates Health And Wellbeing?

2005-11-20T13:35:00.000-08:00

By Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

Most of us know that eating well and exercising is important for good health. Yet often we hear about people 100 years old and older that are still vital and have not eaten perfectly or exercised much. What is the secret of their good health?

Research indicates that a major factor in good health – more important than genes, food, or exercise – is how we handle stress.

Our bodies are equipped with a “fight or flight” mechanism that enables us to mobilize our strength when necessary. This mechanism allows us to fight or flee from real and present danger. However, this mechanism is also activated when we BELIEVE there is danger, even when no actual survival danger exists.

For example, it is appropriate for the fight or flight mechanism to activate if you are being physically attacked. When the stress response is activated, blood is taken from our brain and organs and put into our arms and legs to enable us to fight or flee. Our immune system shuts down to give us more energy to physically protect ourselves and ensure our survival in the moment. Once the danger is over and we have discharged the stress through fighting or running, our bodies go back to normal and blood again flows to our brain and organs.

However, what if your thoughts are creating the stress? What if you are imagining being attacked, or being rejected, or losing money, or losing your job, or losing a loved one? In this case, there is no actual real and present danger occurring in the moment. Yet the body does not know the difference between something that is really happening and something that you are thinking about. The body goes into the stress response the moment you think scary thoughts. But instead of being able to fight or flee, you are stuck with the anxiety caused by your thoughts. The blood is in your arms and legs with no way to be released. You can’t think very well due to as lack of blood in your brain, your organs are being robbed of necessary nutrients, and your immune system is not functioning properly. Strenuous exercise may release the stress response, but if you keep thinking the scary thoughts, it will just come right back.

Perhaps the most important thing you can do for your health and wellbeing is to become conscious of your thoughts that create stress and become adept at changing your thoughts. People who have learned how to let challenging things roll off their back generally have good health. People who allow the challenges of life to constantly stress them out often have health problems, even when they eat well and get exercise.

Our minds have been programmed from infancy with many untrue thoughts – many false beliefs. It is when we think these untrue thoughts that we cause ourselves anxiety and our bodies go into the stress response. However, we all have a “Wise Self” that knows truth from lies. When we move “out of our minds” and into our knowing, we will stop thinking the thoughts that cause anxiety and instead operate from the truth of our knowing.

Thoughts that are untrue cause anxiety. The truth brings peace. If you have a thought that you cannot survive being rejected or being alone, you will feel anxious. However, while this might have been true as a child, it is not true as an adult. Your anxious feeling is letting you know that your thought is untrue. If you then think – from your Wise Self rather than from your programmed mind: “I can handle rejection. I’ve been rejected many times and I have not died. I’ve been alone many times and I have not died,” your body will release the anxiety and you will feel peaceful. Your peaceful feeling is telling you that you are now thinking the truth.

The very best thing you can do for your health and wellbeing is to become aware of the thoughts from your programmed mind that create anxiety, and practice thinking the truth from your Wise Self that creates inner peace.

About the Author: Margaret Paul, Ph.D., best-selling author of eight books, including "Do I Have To Give Up Me To Be Loved By You” and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Learn Inner Bonding now! Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com. Phone Sessions.

Source: www.isnare.com

Tranquility

2005-11-19T18:38:00.000-08:00

Tranquility is achieved when you are in harmony with all beings and all situations. Knowing that everything is precisely the way it is meant to be.

The Joy Of Spirit

2005-11-19T18:36:00.000-08:00

By Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

I have counseled individuals, couples, families and business partners for the past 35 years and authored eight published books. All this experience has resulted in the development of a profound healing process, called Inner Bonding, which anyone can learn and use throughout the day (free course available - see resource box at the end of the article). One of the results of practicing the Inner Bonding process is much more joy in your life.

What brings you joy? What really brings you joy, as opposed to what you think brings you joy?

We have all been taught that we will be happy when we: find our soulmate, make money, work at something we love. Or, we will be happy and fulfilled when we have a house, have a child, do service. Yet I have worked with people who have and do all of the above and are still not happy, and I know of people who have little or none of the above and are frequently joyful.

You might try to find your joy with substances such as alcohol or drugs, but I have never met anyone using these substances whose energy was truly joyful. You might try to find your joy through getting love from others, or through sacrificing yourself and caretaking others, but I have never met anyone who was a taker or caretaker who was truly joyful. So, what creates joy?

Joy is not the result of what you do. Rather, you can find your soulmate, make money, work at something you love, have a house, have a child, or do service with or without joy. Joy is a state of being that enters your heart when you are open to learning and taking loving care of yourself.

Joy, like love and truth, is a gift of Spirit. Joy, love and truth enter your being when your heart is open. Joy is the feeling of exuberance and oneness that envelopes you once you have opened to feeling your pain, learning from it, and moving through it. Joy cannot enter your heart when you are protected against your pain. When you protect against your pain, you close your heart to avoid the pain, and joy cannot enter a closed heart. Thus, joy is the result of doing your inner work to learn to keep your heart open.

Sometimes I am amazed by this feeling of joy. I used to think that my joy would come from good things happening outside of myself. I certainly love for good things to happen, but often I find myself feeling great joy even when nothing is happening!

I feel joy when my Inner Child feels loved by me, important to me, cherished by me, seen by me, valued by me. I feel joy when I attend to my wants and needs, saying "no" to others when I mean no, and "yes" to others when I mean yes. I feel joy when my Inner Child feels safe inside, knowing that I am taking care of her, knowing that I am connecting with my spiritual Guidance each moment so that we are not alone.

Joy is your birthright. It's what makes life worth living. Once you taste it, you will want more and more of it. Yet too many people stay stuck in their safety zone, thinking that protecting against pain and trying to get love is what will make them safe and happy. But do you really feel safe inside? Are your protections really working to create safety within? If you are willing to be honest with yourself and see that your protections aren't working, then maybe you will open your heart and embrace your pain, with a deep desire to learn what you may be doing that is causing it, so that you can feel the joy of Spirit.

About the Author: Margaret Paul, Ph.D., best-selling author of eight books, including "Do I Have To Give Up Me To Be Loved By You” and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Learn Inner Bonding now! Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com. Phone Sessions.

Source: www.isnare.com

Commonality

2005-11-18T17:52:00.000-08:00

The thoughts I have thought and the sins I have sinned have all been had before I existed by people I shall never know.

Family Heirlooms

2005-11-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

By Brooke Brimm

Ask yourself what values, superstitions, myths, and beliefs you hold, which were given to you by those who have loved, nurtured, and reared you. You know what I mean; I like to call them “family heirlooms.” All the little stated or unstated rules you were instilled with growing up. Some of us are still receiving values reinforcement from our love ones or we just replay messages in our head from when we were developing.

“We don’t act like that.” “We don’t do that.” “We don’t say that.” We don’t believe that.” “Are you going to wear that?” “Is that your friend?” “Are you going to eat that?” The messages just play on and on.

Do you know why you were given those “heirlooms” or have you just adopted them blindly? Were they born out of the experiences of others, but have not much to do with your own experiences? Could they have been passed on to you from an era when they may have been necessary, such as “the depression” or “the Jim Crow laws period,” but now they are clearly obsolete? Do they all fit your life today? Do you ever find yourself wondering how others who do not share your same values and beliefs live? Do you ever wonder what your life would be like if you did not follow the family traditions? Are any of these “heirlooms” stopping you from being who you really want to be? Are any of these “family heirlooms” hindering you from succeeding in a loving relationship?

To get the life and love you want it is essential to evaluate, and then correct yourself. Part of the evaluation should include the plethora of information you have been given by those who love you. These individuals are significant because you probably trust them more than any others on this earth. They are also very important because they have helped shape who you are. To fully grow into your individual self, you must carefully analyze your development.

Decide if what you were given as a child fits your lifestyle today. While looking through your old family heirlooms you may find a new appreciation for values you have taken for granted. You may also find that some of your heirlooms clash with your new flair. If you have old heirlooms that do not match your new style, get rid of them. Discard them happily, and don’t look back.

You may have to explain to the folks who have given you all this stuff that you no longer have use for it. They will probably try to convince that you do. They may even try to coerce you, beg you, or threaten to disown you, in order to make you carry the family baggage. However, you should remember that you only have one life to live, and you will be the one responsible if you do not get what you want out of it. More than likely, your family will adapt to your new way of living because they love you.

One last thing, if while taking this journey you discover that the “heirlooms” you’ve adopted from your loved ones are very incongruent with the life you desperately want to lead, do not waste your time blaming them for doing their best. Just work toward doing your best. Continue to love and accept every part of them because at your core you are they. To reject them is to reject you.

About the Author: Brooke Brimm has a Master's degree in Professional Counseling and 8 years of experience in the field of Human Science. She has been married since 1993 and has two beautiful daughters. Ms. Brimm authors an ezine, Loves Gumbo, in which she discusses love, relationships, and friendships in today's society. To join email: lovesgumbo@comcast.net

Source: www.isnare.com

Just Live

2005-11-17T17:46:00.000-08:00

Why is it that mankind is always in a state of preparing to live instead of actually living?

The Nature Of Thought Energy

2005-11-17T17:43:00.000-08:00

By Jeff Palmer

Your thoughts are the currencies with which you exchange energy with the universe

Do you believe that your thoughts have energy? Do you believe that a place or an object can retain the energy of the people that have come into contact with it? If you have ever entered an old home and sensed the presence of its previous occupants, or held an antique item in your hands and felt the history of it, then you know the answers.

Scientists are just beginning to accept the truth about thought energy, and have begun to study what many have known for centuries. In fact some of today’s leading scientists in areas of physics, biology, psychology and many other fields are starting to recognize the importance of thought energy.

Positive thought energy in the form of collective meditation has been scientifically proven to reduce violent crime!

In 1993 a study encouraged by one the world’s leading physicists was undertaken in Washington D.C to determine if focused meditation could have an effect on that city’s crime rate. The results were astonishing. During the weeks that several volunteers meditated, crime rates fell dramatically by 25 percent! This was no accident. This was scientifically validated and proven to be an effective means of countering the criminal inclinations of a very large group of people…an entire city in fact.

All life is energy.

Thoughts have energy. Negative thoughts create negative events. Positive thoughts create positive results. The energy of thought is either stored in physical structures or is transmitted into the universe, it never dies. Consider what this means. Think about the ramifications.

Where did the clothes you are wearing come from, who made them?

Were they manufactured by depressed and impoverished people working in appalling conditions for weeks to make the same amount of money that you spend on a cup of coffee in the morning?

Who built the car that you drive?

Was it built by disgruntled and tired factory workers? Where some of those workers alcoholics? Did some of them leave work, go home, beat their wives and children and build your car the next morning?

Who built the house that you live in?

Who came into contact with the food that you ate today?

Starting to get the picture? Everything we come into contact with can hold the thought energy of other people. Even the air that we breathe carries the thought energy of those it surrounds.

What were the thoughts that have been injected into every part of your life?

How much has the thought energy of others affected you?

Every thought interacts with the energy of the universe. Negative thought looks for other negatives thought energies to bind with. Eventually a matrix of negative thought energy is created and forms a thought wave. These powerful negative thought waves manifest themselves in our lives in the form of poverty, crime, war, plagues and natural disasters. Negative energy creates a vacuum, it detracts from the life giving nature of the universe Negative thought waves come in many sizes and have been known by many names, bad luck, misfortune, disaster, evil, curses, etc. Call them what you will, the source of their energy is the same. The source is us.

Positive thought energy also seeks out other positive energies. If you are a source of positive thought energy, positive and beneficial energy will return to you in many wonderful and unexpected ways. Positive thought energy creates a surplus; it is the surplus of positive thought energy that allows for the creation of life.

You are the source and creator of all things. Everything that happens in your life has a direct connection with the type of energy that you are charging the universe with.

You alone are responsible for the type of energy created by your life.

Becoming aware of the power of your own thoughts is the most important step in understanding how to handle the adverse influence of the negative thought of others.

Knowing the value of positive thought energy allows us to become sensitive to negative energy. We begin to notice it in our own speech, we see it in our relationships, and we notice it in others.

Being aware is the key. Once we are aware of the negative thought energy in our lives we can take measures to eliminate it and replace it with beneficial, healing energy.

It is as simple as noticing it and dismissing it with our minds. A thought enters our mind that we recognize as negative, we simply dismiss it. By dismissing negativity we take away its power by not allowing it to manifest further negativity in our lives.

There are of course many other techniques available to combat negative thought energy and create positive abundance in our lives; including focused meditation among others.

The critical first step however is simply being aware of the existence and effects of these energies. Hopefully this brief article has helped you to allow that first step to be taken.

About the Author: Dr.Jeffry R. Palmer Ph.D. Is the author of "Judo for the Soul - The Art of Psychic Self Defence", as well as numerous articles and papers relating to metaphysics and the study of paranormal phenomena. Further information about Dr. Palmer and his books can be found at http://the-psychic-detective.com/Judo-For-The-Soul.htm

Source: www.isnare.com

The Simple Truth

2005-11-16T18:09:00.000-08:00

Be ready to accept that there is no such thing as the simple truth.

The Power Of Expectations And Beliefs

2005-11-16T18:07:00.000-08:00

By Jeff Palmer

If I were to place three apples on a table in front of you and asked you to choose one to eat, you probably wouldn’t have much difficulty selecting one. After all they are just normal apples, nothing special.

But what if I were to tell you that these apples had been the subject of an experiment in the transference of thought energy? The experiment involved the use of one hundred people familiar with the practice of meditation and the focusing of thought energy.

One of these apples was meditated on with the intention of providing health.

A group of one hundred people concentrated for one hour with the intention of giving this apple the power to heal.

Another apple was focused one with the intention to cause sickness. For one hour this apple was subjected to the meditative thought energy of ill health.

The third apple was not meditated upon.

Knowing this, how would you feel about your selection of the apples? Would you feel uneasy about choosing an apple that has been the focus of these “sickness” intentions? What do you suppose would happen to your body if you ate this apple?

How would your body react to eating the “healthy” apple? Would knowing about the different meditations before hand have an effect on your health if you were to eat? Would knowing about the meditations after eating one of these apples have an affect on your body?

In the experiment described above, what is the mechanism behind the health or sickness associated with these apples? Is it the thought energy of those meditating at work, or do the expectations of the person eating the apple have the real effect? Do the expectations of the meditators come into play?

The three apple scenario has hopefully served to illustrate the importance of understanding how our thoughts can have dramatic external effects beyond the scope of our present day understanding.

"Expectation is a powerful thing," says Robert DeLap, M.D., head of one of the US Food and Drug Administration's Offices of Drug Evaluation. "The more you believe you're going to benefit from a treatment, the more likely it is that you will experience a benefit."

Expectations and beliefs are an important aspect of thought energy studies. A perfect example of this can be found in the phenomena of the placebo effect.

A placebo, as used in research, is an inactive substance or procedure used as a control in an experiment. A placebo effect occurs when the placebo, which cannot on its own have any affect, but does in fact have the same, similar and sometimes better affects as the experimental substances drugs or procedures.

Questions remain about the interplay of psychological and physiological mechanisms that contribute to the placebo effect. Today's brain imaging techniques lend support to the theory that thoughts and beliefs not only affect one's psychological state, but also cause the body to undergo measurable biological changes. What is known, beyond doubt, is that we can create healing energies with our minds alone.

Thoughts have the power to heal and the power to cause harm. What we know and understand about the nature and mechanism of thought and thought energy pales in comparison to the vast amount of information that we do not have. Studying how expectations, beliefs and thought energy relate to physiological and biological changes can lead to a better understanding of individual roles and responsibilities regarding personal health and well being.

Thoughts are real. Thoughts are measurable outside of our bodies and they exert a real influence on people, places and objects which is not bound by time or space. Directed thought energy carrying specific intent is capable of imprinting objects with a desired physical or emotional signature.

Now, go have an apple and think about that for awhile.

About the Author: Dr.Jeffry R. Palmer Ph.D. Is the author of "Judo for the Soul - The Art of Psychic Self Defence", as well as numerous articles and papers relating to metaphysics and the study of paranormal phenomena. Further information about Dr. Palmer and his books can be found at http://the-psychic-detective.com/Judo-For-The-Soul.htm

Source: www.isnare.com

Knowledge

2005-11-15T18:30:00.000-08:00

The more you know, the more you need to know.

What Changes Are You Avoiding In Life?

2005-11-15T18:29:00.000-08:00

By Margie Warrell

Change is a constant in our lives and yet so often we resist it. As human beings we are wired to avoid change because any type of change, even change for the better, involves a level of discomfort in some shape or form. The whole concept of comfort zones evolved to explain the hedonistic psychological drive in all of us to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Comfort zones - characterized by the familiar, the known, the predictable - are where we risk little except, of course, our spirits deepest fulfillment. Change, by its very nature, requires us to step beyond our comfort zone and let go of something we've become familiar with - whether it be a the structure of our company, a relationship, a routine, a neighbourhood or a physical environment in which we've lived or worked - and adapt to something new, something unfamiliar.

As someone who has moved around a lot over the last decade and had four children along the way, I know all too well that change can not only be uncomfortable but it can be inconvenient and, at times, quite overwhelming (as every new mother will tell you). However I also know that unless you are willing to embrace change in your life you will miss the opportunities your ever changing environment presents to you and will be unable to create for yourself a life you really enjoy living.

Perhaps you are someone who feels very averse to change. A 'creature of habit' you call yourself. That is all fine and good. But if your aversion to change has left you unwilling to address the areas of your life you don't feel good about and fulfill your own unique potential then it is coming at a cost to you. In my experience when people choose to avoid change - even positive change - it is because they doubt their ability to take on the challenges that change will bring. Fear keeps them stuck and resigned to the status quo.

Is there something you don't feel completely great about in any of these aspects of your life?

* Your relationships
* Your home and work environment
* Your career (or lack thereof)
* Your health and general sense of well being
* Your finances
* Your sense of community
* Your recreation/leisure time
* Your life in general!

What would need to change to bring into your life more of what you wanted and less of what you didn't in whichever areas you feel dissatisfied with? People who achieve true success in their professional and personal lives are those who view change not as something that is 'bad' and to be avoided but as something that is necessary if they are to move forward toward the goals that inspire them. They don't resist. They embrace.

Likewise the only way you can ever have the life you'd really love to live is by proactively going out and making whatever changes need to be made. But what's that you say? You feel scared, daunted even? Well of course you do… you're human! No-one is born immune to fear and self doubt. We all experience it. Likewise, no one is born with an absence of courage. Courage lies within each of us and is not an absence of fear but action in spite of it. So whatever changes you have been putting off know you are capable of taking on much more than you have been giving yourself credit for. Stop underestimating yourself!

Sure your life right now might be relatively easy and 'comfortable' but that doesn't mean it is truly rich in the stuff that makes it truly rewarding and meaningful. Upgrading your experience of being alive in the world requires willingness to continual personal growth. Growth does not occur in comfort zones. In fact the only way you can grow into your full potential is by stretching yourself a little now and then, and as you do, leaving behind the old in order to experience the new. When you approach change with the right attitude you will become much more confident in your ability to handle life's challenges and to take on bigger, more exciting challenges that really inspire you.

Today I encourage you to take one small action toward addressing something you feel dissatisfied with. It may require a change to your daily routine, who you hang out with, your commitments, your eating habits, your spending habits or to your willingness to have a conversation that you've long been putting off… whatever! The most important thing is to step into action and as you do remember that you really are much much more capable and courageous than you think you are!

2005 © Margie Warrell. All rights reserved.

About the Author: Margie Warrell is an Executive & Life Coach, Speaker and Writer who specializes in empowering women to find the courage to pursue the goals that inspire them - personally and professionally - with more success, fulfillment and balance… less the stress! To subscribe to her free monthly ezine or for more information visit http://www.margiewarrell.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Suspicions

2005-11-14T17:57:00.000-08:00

The less you know the more you suspect.

The True And Magnificent Power Of Giving

2005-11-14T17:55:00.000-08:00

By Karen Walker

You've probably heard of the popular saying "It's better to give than to receive." But do you actually know what hidden power lies within this magnanimous act known as "giving?"

When you give something from your heart without expecting anything in return, you release a powerful force that will trigger your good deed to "bounce" back to you in amazing, and sometimes unusual ways.

I firmly believe that whatever you impart to others will come back to you a hundred fold. You are doing yourself a big favor by helping someone in need. By doing even the smallest acts of generosity, you are inviting good vibrations to come into your life.

You would be earning the respect and love of your recipients. You know that you will always have a loyal group of friends who would help, protect, and do anything for you just because they feel that they have to repay you in any way they can. Most people would have the urge or drive to reciprocate any act of kindness you've shown them.

However, this does not mean that you must expect them to repay you. Give without any expectation of rewards. Don't do it just because you have an ulterior motive. Give unconditionally. Give because you are happy doing it. The universe will get back to you in its own special way.

Speaking of happiness, the act of giving can summon the spirit of joy to come into your heart. How would you feel when you've given something to your less fortunate neighbors? Let me tell you that nothing could brighten up my day more than hearing them express their most heartfelt gratitude and seeing their smiles extend from ear to ear.

Giving is also a healthy habit. It could prolong your life by instilling within you an inner sense of peace and accomplishment.

Just like all things in life, giving has its limitations. Being too generous can have its toll. Your kindness might be taken advantage of and people might abuse your good intentions. Beware of individuals who are continuously seeking your aid. It's better to teach them how to solve their problems than to always attend to their needs.

As one saying goes...

"Give them some fish and you'll feed them for a day. Teach them how to fish and you'll feed them for a lifetime."

Lastly, here's what I consider the most important rule about giving. Keep your good deeds to yourself. Don't announce to the whole world that you've donated $100,000 to your favorite charity or that you've helped save a child from a life-threatening disease.

If you really desire to give, do it secretly and in private. Some people would write "anonymous" rather than their own names when they've made a contribution. The universe smiles upon these individuals, and they will get their just rewards in due time.

Now that you know how wonderful it is to give, would you go out to the world and share your blessings?

About the Author: Karen Walker specializes in helping individuals, entrepreneurs, network marketers, and independent professionals generate substantial incomes with their own Work at Home or Home Based Business on the Internet. Visit her web sites for more information: http://www.income-directory.com http://www.cashflowquest.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Renunciation

2005-11-13T11:14:00.000-08:00

Each day, accept everything that comes to you as a gift. At night, mentally give it all back. In this way, you become free. No one can ever take anything from you, for nothing is yours.

How To Capture Great Opportunity

2005-11-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

By Community Soul

How do you treat opportunities?

More often than not, most of us walk the pavement looking down, rather than up. We miss the opportunity to smile and connect with passers-by. And I’m sure that over the last year or two, people frown more and smile less. And if this is how we treat each other, I wonder how we treat the opportunities that flow our way.

Digging a little, I discovered some interesting answers.

It seems that people, in general, are not happy. Aside of the stresses and strains of life, one of the things they blame for the way they feel right now, is the state of the world.

Digging deeper, I found something else…

Take a look at today’s media headlines. Do you feel inspired by them? Do you feel the press do much for the you, by way of inspiration and wisdom?

I don’t remember a time when a newspaper guided me towards better thinking or towards the opportunity within the chaos. They are more likely to tell us about a celebrity divorce or a scandal in a reality TV show than inspire us towards a better love life or a better way to handle the kids vandalising the local park.

Another factor is TV… that thing we do for rest and relaxation?

Watch a TV soap. Would you agree it is mostly conflict? Episode after episode of fights, murders and affairs, all based on “Real Life” drama. Compare the “real life” drama to real life in my community. In the last year there has been no murders. There has been hardly a scuffle worthy of the name. And as for affairs… who knows... And frankly, other than people who don’t have a life, who cares! Watching “real life” dramas just leaves you feeling like you need to watch your back… when in real life… you don’t need to.

What else?

Advertising… food adverts: just what you need when you want to lose weight: chocolate and pizza and other fast foods that look mouth-wateringly good. Before you know it the snacks in your mouth and your feeling guilt.

Empowering, isn’t it?

It seems - unless you know where to find uplifting, empowering information - that the world, is not set up for a person who wants to really discover their true self and live a fit healthy life, full of happiness and wonderful things. In fact, you might agree that it seems set up to do the opposite - discouraging us from our dreams.

So, what can be done?

You could make a choice. You could say: if I want to succeed with my goals, I will only watch TV and read newspapers that include content that inspires me towards where I want to be. Imagine what you will gain by the end of the TV programme. If you can’t see a gain or a pay-off from the broadcast, turn it off. By doing this you reclaim your control over your leisure time. You also block out things that can discourage you or make you feel bad about the world.

‘But I need to relax,’ you might say.

Do you get relaxed watching conflict, or news about death and destruction? Surely true relaxation is peace in the mind, or curling up on the sofa, playing Lego or hide-and-seek with your kids or having an early night with your lover.

But consider going one step further…

It’s all well and good cutting out all the negative, but you need to fill that space with something positive.

So here is what I’ve done.

I’ve surrounded myself with material from some of the world’s greatest minds: speakers, authors and advisors. If we could be mentored by an outstanding coach in an area of life we want to improve, and not have it cost us a fortune, it might well be of tremendous benefit. Rubbing shoulders with a great advisor could well be the inspiration I need to do something extraordinary: make a million, lose extra pounds, turn an iffy relationship into the most wonderful, romantic experience imaginable… or help us move on.

So what did I do?

I contacted some friends: some best-selling authors, some coaches and speakers, I admire. I told them I needed their help and inspiration. Then I set up a new media reference point: one packed with positive content, that will help people discover their true identity and live life to the fullest. What’s more I made it cost less about 1% of the annual charge of a daily newspaper!

Remember you have to looking for your opportunities. You won’t find them looking down at the pavement and your unlikely to find them in a newspaper or a TV show.

Think about the mouth-watering prospect of having information you can use to enhance life and have it cost you next to nothing!

Then think about your usual daily newspaper. Once you’ve read it, what can you do with the information you gather from it… other than feel depressed.

Now think again about the prospect of having positive content in your life. Think about the prospect of having great advice.

Which makes more sense?

About the Author: What if Best-selling author and former world champion athlete, Dan Millman became your coach, Jason Vale, the Juice Master your health advisor and top marketing guru Robert Middleton became your business mentor. And, what if you could get romance and dating tips from a top author, or if you could learn to understand your kids better, from expert coaches. Would your life change? Would you feel more inspired, powerful and in control? Get your weekly input of wisdom from these and other outstanding authors, writers and coaches in one e-publication. Sign up now of a year, for less than 10p per week. Invest in yourself. Your future is worth it http://www.communitysoul.co.uk

Source: www.isnare.com

Do You Want The Truth?

2005-11-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

Why do we seem happy enough to ask the meaning of truth then walk away before we get the answer?

Whoever Said We Can’t Change The World Underestimated The Power Of The Human Spirit

2005-11-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

By Community Soul

I turned off the TV yesterday because the presenter talked about a reality alien to me.

She talked about road rage and trolley rage and people not apologising for bumping into each other and pushing in at check outs. My community is a rural one - quiet and friendly, but I know not all communities are like this. What’s yours like? Is it like the aggressive stressed one that the TV presenter talked about? Is your community the way you’d like it to be? Do you want to shift the consciousness around you? If the answer is yes, then I invite you, to read on…

What is community intention?

For me, and your ideas may be different, it is about realising that inner connectedness - that my happiness and well-being is connected to that which surrounds me. I love to see children and elders as well as neighbours passing the time of day. It builds a bond of respect and trust for each other. My partner loves to take flowers to people’s doorsteps and leave them with a note: “From a neighbour who appreciates you”.

I love seeing parents smiling as they take their children to school. I enjoy watching children skip and sing and hearing stories of how a village pulled together to help a family under pressure because their son had a drug problem. It’s warming to know that a community has the power to change things without a child being expelled from school or the police getting heavy.

This kind of incident makes me ask: what will it be like when human spirit truly unites?

In Egyptian times something unique happened. The population forged a national identity in their hearts when communities from the north and south came together to built the Great Pyramid. In those days the Nile flooded and there was always a time when these people had to leave their homes. It was during this time that they would come together and work as one to build this magnificent monument that has stood the test of time. What’s more, they did it from their hearts, because no monetary system existed.

So, what if we did the same? Can we give from our hearts? Can we give of ourselves and share something of value with the ones around us?

We can do so much more when we realise the commonality of our lives is defined in a word. That word is: oneness. If we seek out that glow within us and within our communities we can achieve something incredible: we can transform ours selves, the community around us and shift the world from a place of despair, desperation and greed to a place of love, peace and wonder.

You may already have been holding the light for the coming of days like these. If you have, then I call you my brother and my sister, to now carry that light one step forward, because holding a light alone is one thing, but holding a light with a thousand others around you is true oneness. Holding the light, together in any community will transform any village, any town, any city, any country, any planet. Now is the time. Step forward.

About the Author: CommunitySoul is one way of turning people to the light. It is a community of amazing people - some best-selling authors, coaches and speakers, full of inspiration and wisdom that enhance lives and help us to stay focussed on the multi-faceted nature of living. We invite you to join us http://www.communitysoul.co.uk and speed up the transformation of the world.

Source: www.isnare.com