A Little Compassion.

By: Dan Malone A good friend of mine named Christina has an amazing gift, I think many people forget they have it in themselves. The gift of compassion. Why do I call it a gift? Because she gives it to others. You see Christina fosters kittens who have no home. She goes out and rescues kittens from the wild. She cares for them, makes sure they are healthy and finds good homes for them. One very special kitten recently came in to her life. Her name is Savannah. When Christina found Savannah she was not in good condition. She was dirty, afraid and unhealthy. As with all new kittens, Christina, takes them in to her home, cleans and feeds them. Once they have reached 2 pounds, she takes them to the vet where they are tested and vaccinated. I remember this day well. Christina had called with sadness when she found out Savannah had tested positive for FIV. It's a disease that is specific to felines and is similar to AID's. Not doing much better then the day Christina found her, Savannah had stopped eating and began loosing a lot of weight. You could see the bones through her thin skin. Finally she stopped walking and eating altogether. Many would consider this a loosing battle. Christina would spend nights holding Savannah, simply trying to make her feel better. All the time, Christina herself was getting worse. She would be in tears, worrying about Savannah. The thought of Savannah loosing her life was tearing Christina apart. There are many in the world that see FIV as a life sentence. Kittens with FIV are not expected to survive and the ones who do often need special care. Since FIV is easy to spread when kittens are playing, Savannah had to be kept apart from all the other kittens. Christina was the only friend she had come to know. Christina though sad and hurting herself, never gave up. She had awoken early one morning and began searching the internet for information. After a little searching, she found that there was some hope for Savannah. With some special medicine, and care, she found out that Savannah might have a chance to get better and live a healthy life. Christina made many calls trying to obtain the medicine, caring nothing of the cost. She was finally able to find a shelter that would order the medicine for her, at no cost. She began to give Savannah the medicine, and feeding her fluids with a syringe. In short time, Savannah began to gain a little weight, and start walking again. It was no time before she was up and playing. One night Christina brought Savannah over to play. I will never forget the look in Christina's eyes, and the feeling of playing with a kitten who many would have given up on. This was a truly heart warming experience. Savannah had just recently been tested again. This time she came up negative for FIV. In many cases, mothers can pass this disease on to her kittens, and in some cases the kittens, are able to shed it off over time. Savannah was now a healthy playful kitten, with the rest of her life to enjoy a world she may have never known. There is no doubt in my mind that Savannah will have a better life because of Christina. I also know that Christina herself will have a better life because of Savannah. I have read a-lot of inspirational stories, but this one, the one I have been able to write will live with me forever. It reminds me that love and compassion do make a difference, and to never give up on someone or something you believe in.

Today is Wednesday the 23rd of June 2004. Savannah will be going to the Vet to set spade tomorrow morning. In a week or two she will be ready for adoption. Hopefully to a family that she can have a loving and compassionate impact upon.

A Summertime Lesson

I mowed lawns the summer after my sophomore year in high school. I should say that I tried to mow lawns. Because it was a larger company we weren't working with your simple push mower. No, it was far different from a happy afternoon walking leisurely behind a chopping friend; it was war, standing on a tiny platform behind a monstrous tank as it lugged me from here to there. I was terrible at first, as you can probably deduce. I gouged hills, gnawed concrete and clipped stones, sending them hurling through the air and at my boss's head. I didn't enjoy my daily neardeath experiences, so my motivation to work began to fizzle. Things turned around when Travis, the boss's son, took me under his wing. After getting his fill of laughing at the rookie getting dragged across the lawn, he unloaded bags and bags of advice on me. He answered my questions and corrected my mistakes. By mid-summer, after cutting up lawns as if I had worked with scissors at midnight, I began to improve. Some would even say that I was good (not sure who they would be). As my skill increased, my motivation followed right along. No one enjoys fumbling through work. Even if they don't fumble, everyone enjoys doing what they do well. So here's my tip: improve your work skills, not because it's good for your boss but because it's good for you. The better you are at your job, the happier you'll be doing it. You don't have to sink a fortune into school or crisscross the state in search of ballroom conferences. Read a book. Talk with a co-worker. Visit a Web site. Every ounce of new information will offer new energy

You Inc.

A few years ago I was listening to a program while driving to work. I can still remember how Jay Abraham referred to his old jobs. (If you're unfamiliar, he's the bearded business guru who could turn a lemonade stand into a multi-national, multi- million dollar enterprise--with a franchise in the neighboring county.) He was asked about the work experience that had turned his brain into a business machine. At one point he said, "I made a huge profit from all of them." He caught my attention with that one. Profit? Most people think in terms of a paycheck, but not profit. The idea intrigued me. From his perspective, he was president of Jay Abraham Inc long before he owned his first company. Wherever hired, he was bringing in his corporation to help his client succeed. He was a consultant, not an employee. It was a simple twist that blossomed into stellar results. Because Abraham looked at his jobs through the lens of self-employment, he was constantly driven to improve and excel. His mind churned out idea after idea; his brain never stopped scanning the scene for slivers of opportunity. After all, it was his company he was helping. How would you act if you were the president of You Inc? What would you do differently if, instead of working for someone else's business, you were offering the services of your company?

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

How I Rose From Abject Poverty. By: Aaron Robinson As I sit back in my office chair, gazing at the computer monitor that has a graphical layout of Consciousness Magazine, I begin to reminisce about some of the obstacles and challenges I went through. At a younger age, these challenges molded my life long passion for creativity that has motivated me up to this point. Going through these stages were long lasting, inspiring, artistic, and unpredictable. In most scenarios, these unpredictable events would seem to have had a negative impact on my life, but instead, led me down a righteous path that has always had a happy ending. If it weren't for these challenges I may have never developed my skills in fine arts and recording rap and hip-hop vocals. I say this because trials and tribulations, lifelong pain, and believing in a higher power has motivated me to become passionately aware of the gifts I was blessed with. When these talents were combined with my social, interpersonal, disciplined, and leadership skills, the innovative "Consciousness Magazine" was born. Consciousness Magazine wasn't an overnight realization; it took nearly a year of strategic business planning after graduating from Columbia College in Chicago and living the life as a starving hip-hop recording artist and professional graphic designer. I can remember when the manifestation of this project was only a thought. About three years ago, at a grocery store on the West side of Chicago, I saw a vision that I was changing people's lives by inspiring them. I came to a halt and began reflecting on the environment I was living in at the present time. At this given moment, my spirit was uneasy, due to the fact that I was upset with the ignorance of people in general. I told my business partner Lahad about the vision, and that a pamphlet is needed to provide people with inspiring information that they may not be conscious of. He said, "That's a great idea!" I felt as if this could be the catalyst to address people's problems and complaints. It was our calling to help "make a difference!" I felt as if I needed to take action and do something about this perpetual epidemic of ignorance that is causing people to destroy themselves and others. A couple of years later I drew out the conceptual layout of the pamphlet. I never anticipated developing a magazine so early at the beginning of my career. While pursuing and working diligently on many projects in my life, I can say that Consciousness Magazine has been the most challenging, especially pulling together a group of people for a staff that have full time jobs, families, or are college students. My staff started off with about 10 people. At the completion of this issue only four of those original members were still around. Nevertheless, God blessed me with about 30 or more people who played an important role in putting together this publication. While continuing to reminisce on life over the past several years, I believe that my childhood drove me to start my own business, Atron Productions, Incorporated. I always knew that I would someday be an entrepreneur. I consider myself to have noble intentions. I want people to know that there is hope out here. For the longest time I was struggling and I was determined to be a voice for people letting them know that they can overcome all obstacles that may be set in front of them. With this in mind, I pulled together my staff and contributors

to put together a magazine that has these qualities. These days' people need inspiration, a need I feel that they don't get satisfied from contemporary media outlets. This belief was shaped by my youth and life experiences. I was born on the Westside of Chicago. When I was a few years old, my parents moved my siblings, mentally ill uncle, and I to Hopkins Park, Illinois, a poverty stricken rural area. My father being a shade tree carpenter and my mother a house-wife; it was hard for my siblings and I to get some of the things we needed for school and as children. I can recall only having two pair of pants when I was in the fifth grade. Students showed no empathy when they saw me wear clothes back-to-back along with the holes that were noticeable in my shoes. It didn't bother me. I always knew that I would one day grow into a man and be able to get everything I ever desired. Being blessed with the talents to be a fine artist, I knew that there would be a possible way out of poverty. This belief along with people constantly telling me, at a young age, how important an education is are the key reasons as to why I always wanted to help people change their lives so that they would not have to go through the embarrassment and shame I've been through. I didn't know how I was going to pursue this at such a young age. I always had a strong family. Like most families, we had our problems. I honor my mother who has "Southern hospitality." She instilled in her children the importance of values and family at a young age. My siblings and I are all close. We all went to college except my oldest sister who became mentally ill at a young age. The family encountered a lot of tough times. I lost count of all the times that I can recall our electric being shut off, and going without a house phone for months due to lack of finances to pay the bills. During these conditions it was sometimes difficult for us to meet some of our everyday needs such as eating the necessary foods for a complete diet. The winters were worse but we strived every year to make life better. I can recall us having a wood heater. We would block off the rooms and all of us would sleep in the kitchen or living room bundled up to keep warm. Some nights before school, we washed our clothes with our hands. We would hang them up over a fan to dry. On warm days we would leave them to dry on an outdoor clothing line or fence. Also, when the electric was cut off we pumped water from an outside well to supply us with water. We protected and concealed our foods in metal or plastic containers to protect it from the rats and roaches that contributed to the extra holes in the walls and floors of a once condemned home that was progressively renovated by my father. Since then, a new home has been built due to the fact that our house was burnt to the ground several years ago because of a furnace problem. I can recall there was nearly two feet of snow on the ground during the time of the burning. It was a blessing that everyone made it out safely. This was a difficult time of our life, especially when we had no home insurance. Could you imagine the only thing you owned were the clothes you stood shivering in on a freezing winter day? By the time the fire department arrived to our property, there was only one wall standing. Since then, I learned to not take anything for granted, appreciating life and valuing people to the fullest. During the time of the fire, I was a student at Kankakee Community College. My grades began to drop. I dropped one class. I felt deprived, feeling as if I had nothing to live for. I basically gave up all hope and faith. I was enrolled in two art classes and also gave up on those. Prior

to the burning, I could recall on a daily basis waking up around 3 in the morning to work on art pieces. Sad to say, that drive was no longer there. I now found myself with nothing to do. While our family was partially living with my Aunt Olivia, I had to plan days ahead to figure out how I was going to commute from Hopkins Park to school four times a week. It became very difficult because I did not have reliable transportation at the time and didn't know where my next meal or money was going to come from. My parents needed to spend more time running around trying to get life back in order after the fire and the car wasn't always available to me. Sometimes I packed extra clothes in my book bag and lived out of it occasionally. Since the college was 20-30 minutes away from Hopkins Park I sometimes stayed with a friend or my sister who lived in Kankakee. Having no place to stay and bouncing from house to house was very detrimental. Nevertheless, I never made any excuses not to go to class. I knew that I had to be in class even if I was discouraged and didn't do the homework for the next day. Stepping foot in the school always gave me a sense that I was still doing something with my life.. I just loved being in a productive atmosphere. Deep down inside I was angry at the world, wanting a normal life. I would always question myself: "Why am I going through so much hardship?" The influential people in my life such as family, friends, strangers, and my former art instructors helped me to change my negative attitude, and thinking pattern on how I felt about life at the time. This is one of the reasons I hope to give out scholarships, so that I can give someone the opportunity they think they may not have. As time progressed, God was looking over me as I cried out for help and wanting change. Within music, rather mine or others, I gradually found therapy, spirituality, and a source of healing power. I repetitively played the song "God's Grace" by the inspirational group Trinity 5:7. An insertion of the lyrics in the song reads: "No weapon formed against thee shall prosper." I strongly believe in this quote, which is a partial verse from Isaiah 54:55. Some people may assume I am religious but I'm a spiritual and humble individual. I don't think that categories and titles make up a persons character; it's all about what's in his or her heart. If it wasn't for my passion for the arts, I may have fallen victim to the influence of taking more to the street life or maybe ended up as another statistical black male in the court system by making uneducated and unwise decisions. Believe me, nothing came easy. If you have a gift you must continue to perfect it. That makes it more rewarding. It kept me out of trouble. As, far as I can remember, I continued to draw, paint, write, record, and take up hobbies, such as collecting sports trading cards to escape my reality. I didn't know that it was going to have so much of an impact upon my future and the lives of others. I can recall drawing graphical images at a younger age. During that time, I didn't know that I was in preparation to earn a B.F.A. in Graphic Design or working on a magazine publication. When I was recording music with a small radio and speaking into a broken microphone, I didn't know that I was going to meet and perform with a professional music artist, or get interviewed for radio stations. Sometimes my life reminds me of the Richard Wright biography "Black Boy." While Reading this book many years ago I can relate to some of the trials and tribulations he overcame, such as leaving the South and moving to Chicago for a better opportunity to become a successful

writer. Along the same lines, I once moved to Chicago to finish college to become a successful artist. Also, when Wright was younger, his house burned down. As I went back and read the book for the second time, I became mesmerized, drawn into the story of his life thinking, does Richard Wright live in me? He may not but he really motivated me to express myself by writing, whether it was lyrics for music or dialog for a movie script. I like to write in my spare time. Creative writing relieves my stress. For the most part, it positions me in my own world. I can say that I've truly been blessed. Sometimes you may feel that it's the end of the world as you cope with certain problems or situations. All along, it is happening for a reason. At the same time, we must acknowledge the small details in our life that cause us to have problems. Sometimes we consciously or unconsciously make incorrect decisions, which lead to pain and suffering. In most cases, situations are unpredictable. Work them out, move on, and try to make some sense out of the situation if you can. Don't dwell on the problem if it can't be fixed at the moment. Let time take its course. Then go to your favorite relaxation spot like I go to my office. Sit back, reminisce, meditate and appreciate the present moment.

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

The Power of Belief. By: Scott DiCicco After the teams for the 2003-2004 MBHL Hockey Season our team was thought to be the worst team in the league. My team battled throughout the whole season losing to teams large amounts. Everyone got down on themselves and thought that we couldnt do it. With six games left in the season we had to win all of them to make it to the playoffs. Our coach told us that if we wanted to show everyone that we were a good team we had to make it to the playoffs. My team battled hard and we did it we made it to the playoffs. We made 2 huge upsets in the playoffs to make it to the League Championship against the #1 team who was undefeated and had beaten us 12-0. Before the game our coach got us motivated and prepared for the biggest game of our lives. We came out with heart and we were determined to win and we did 3-2 in overtime and we shocked the whole league. We had pulled a huge upset and won the 2003-2004 League Championship with heart, hard work and never losing sight of our dream.

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

A Wake Up Call. By: Catherine Pulsifer During the month of September, a dear friend of mine lost her husband suddenly in an accident. The tragedy was a shock to everyone.

This accident was sudden and certainly unexpected. It drove home the realization that you just don't know when a loved one is no longer going to be with you. We sometimes take our love ones for granted, and we expect that they will be with us forever. However, as we all know, life does not work that way and sometimes we get a wake up call that shocks us and makes us stand back and realize how short life is. In consoling her, I tried to imagine if I was in her shoes how would I feel. It was impossible to imagine what she was going through. What words do I say to help her? Sometimes words just can not express our feelings. Sometimes our actions are much more meaningful than words. A hug can sometimes express more than our words will ever express. Sometimes, just being there to listen is more meaningful and helpful to people. A SECOND WAKE UP CALL. As I was leaving the funeral parlor, I ran into a Marilyn. Marilyn has been a true friend to me over the years. She is one of those friends who is with you in the good times and is always by your side in the bad times. She has a sense of humor that makes everyone laugh and she makes everyone feel at ease. We chit chatted for a few moments, and then she asked me how my job was. So I started talking and talking and talking (am sure she wished she had never asked, ha) I was having a stressful week with my job and I was telling her all the issues and how I was feeling. She listened to me as I was raving about my frustrations, then without saying a word, she took her hands and placed them on my face, and said to me, "But at least you had a day." The touch of her hands on my cheeks, the calmness in her voice, and the words she spoke, "BUT AT LEAST YOU HAD A DAY", hit me like a ton of bricks. All the frustrations, all the stress that was building up inside of me - came to a complete stop. Since that day, when I start feeling stressed, I remind myself of Marilyn's words - but at least I had a day! Things could be a lot worse, the stress of the situation always could be worse, but I am alive and I have a lot to be thankful for - so I shall not waste my days with stress and frustrations - Life is too short!

Catherine Pulsifer is one of the authors of Stress Less Country - A journey to simplicity and a frugal lifestyle!

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

Breaking Through Uncertainty By: Jim McCormick We all question our ability at times. Uncertainty plagues us. It is even more intense if the ability we are questioning relates to something we have never tried or not succeeded at in the past. Set backs are common, but we rarely welcome them. We are inclined to respond negatively to adversity. It may be time to revisit that reflexive response.

I had an experience recently that caused me to reconsider whether a negative response to adversity is always justified when I was confronted with a life-threatening situation. It was mid-morning on a warm and pleasant Saturday. I was in the midst of my first skydive of the day. It was my 2,123th jump since having taken up the sport fifteen years ago. After about one minute of freefall and 5,000 above the ground, I parted ways with my fellow jumpers to get far enough away from them to open my parachute safely. I initiated opening around 3,000 feet above the earth. My parachute opened with some twists in the lines between the parachute and me. This is not that uncommon. What was different this time was that I was not able to clear the twists. The twists in the lines caused my parachute to take on an asymmetrical shape. Receiving asymmetrical inputs, the canopy did what it is designed to do and initiated a turn -- that's how it's steered. The problem occurred when the turn quickly became a rapid, diving downward spiral that was spinning me a full 360 degrees about once every second. This was a problem. I looked up to assess my canopy and saw something I don't often see - the horizon clearly visible ABOVE the trailing edge of my canopy. This meant my canopy and I were now on roughly the same horizontal plane. In that I could see the horizon behind it, I was actually above my parachute and it was leading our fast spinning parade rapidly towards mother earth. My first need was to acknowledge that I was not going to be able to solve this problem. This is not as easy as it seems. Having successfully completed over 2,100 jumps without having to resort to my second parachute, it was hard for me to believe I had really encountered a problem I could not solve. I had a natural inclination to assume I could fix this problem as I had all those in the past. Sound familiar? It's always easy to lapse into denial when confronted with a problem. Until we acknowledge the problem and our possible inability to solve it - or to use the methods we have used in the past - we don't have a chance of making things better. Fortunately, the urgency of this situation caused my hard-headed nature to yield much quicker than usual. That decision probably took a second or two. The next step, having accepted the need to follow a different course than in the past, was to determine the course. Fortunately fifteen years of training and practice before every day of jumping took hold. I looked straight down at the two handles on either side of my chest - one to release me from my malfunctioning canopy and one for deploying my reserve parachute - and realized I needed to quickly get them in my hands. I could not help but notice when I made eye contact with them, as had been ingrained in me during my First Jump Course way back in 1988, that by now the rapid spins had turned me back to earth and there beyond my toes was once again the horizon. This was bad! Time was of the essence at this point not only because I was now rapidly progressing toward the horse pasture below me, but also because the centrifugal force I was starting to experience would soon make it impossible to get my hands to those two handles.

With my hands now securely on the handles, I was confronted with a bothersome question, "Now, which one goes first." The wrong order could cause my reserve parachute to deploy into my spinning main parachute which would result in an incurable entanglement. Fortunately, ingrained training once again took over and I pulled them in the right order. First the handle on the right side which released me from my spinning main parachute followed by the handle on the left side to deploy my reserve parachute. This brought on a wonderful experience. My malfunctioning black, teal and magenta canopy was replaced with a bright, yellow never before used reserve parachute. What a lovely sight! And all this by 1,700 feet - plenty of time to spare. Many years ago, I read a book about the challenges and responsibilities of Secret Service agents. One of the sad aspects of that profession is that agents who never have the chance to validate their years of training by responding to a threat sometimes struggle severely in retirement. They are faced with not knowing - with certainty - how they would respond when faced with the paramount challenge their career can deliver. For this reason, agents who have faced such a challenge successfully are admired within the culture of the Service. That Saturday morning, I had the privilege of facing a similar, life-threatening and I now realize life-defining challenge. I faced what Secret Service agents call "the dragon." For all of us the greater dragon is not the external threat, whether it be an assassin's bullet, the unforgiving and fast approaching earth or another challenge. The real dragon is the selfdoubt we carry within us. For those few splendid moments after landing safely, I was able to put my foot firmly on the neck of the dragon ... and it felt great. Keep this in mind the next time you are confronted with adversity. On the far side of the experiences the adversity presents, there could be a valuble gift - a renewed confidence and certainty.

Jim McCormick draws on his engineering degree, MBA and experience as a Chief Operating Officer of an international design firm to help organizations improve performance. He is coauthor of Motivational Selling, editor of 365 Daily Doses of Courage and author of the forthcoming book Seize Opportunity - A Practical Guide to Taking Advantage of Opportunities. Jim is also a three time skydiving World Record holder and was a member of an international expedition that skydived to the North Pole. More information is available at www.TakeRisks.com and 970.577.8700.

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

Leaving The Child Behind. By: Fatimah Musa

I looked at my father for the last time before he was finally laid to rest. And I said to myself, "I forgive you father." I have forgiven him but I have not forgotten the turmoil, terror and abuse that I went through. My father was working away most of the time when I was growing up. But when he was home, he was violent. I remembered crying in the middle of the night listening to him beating up my mother. I could hear her sobs. And I wept because I could not do anything about it. I was terrified of him. We were not supposed to do any thing wrong according to his terms. When I was six years old he pushed my head so hard onto the floor. I still have the scar on my forehead. When my mother was diagnosed with depression, the four of us siblings had to move and we lived with him. He hired someone to take care of us while he was away at work. There was so much fear in us when he was back. My father was so angry with one of my brother's one day that he turned him upside down and wanted to throw him off. I watched that episode with horror. From then on, I tried not to make any mistakes. I wept inside because he did not want to hear any whimpers. And I continued watching him vent his anger on the rest of my siblings. When my father divorced my mother, I did not know how to feel or react. My mother was back with us but her depression kept relapsing. We were neglected. I found solace from friends at school. I enjoyed reading stories and literature. I spent my time in the school library. There was no home sweet home. My mother could not take care of me. My father took me away to live with his new family. It did not work out. I was sent to a welfare home. I did not deserve to be abandoned but I was helpless. I was mad with my father. I was not angry with my mother but I just did not understand why she had to be sick. Until recently, I did not want to admit that my childhood affected me emotionally and mentally. I have brought the memories of bygone age along into my daily existence. In all my relationships, everything went well until my partners suggested on serious commitments. I would then sabotage the relationships. I was not able to open up to anyone. I was very defensive when given any advice or opinion on my attitude and behavior. When there were arguments, I clamped up or walked off. I never wanted to face any issues and resolve them. And I would not cry in front of anyone no matter how sad or hurt I was. I remembered a time when my sister was badly wounded and hospitalized. I did not want anyone to see me cry. I walked away and cried my heart out alone in a secluded place.

I excelled in my career by putting in lots of hours and efforts. Now I realized that it was one way of escaping reality. I kept myself so busy so that I do not notice things that needed attention. I was using work as a means to avoid commitments. There was one thing that I gained from the experience of being abandoned. I was able to sit quietly alone for hours and reflect. It has developed my fascination on nature's beauty. I love the feel of the wind blowing on my face. I enjoy watching the rain falling. And no matter how bad the weather is, it is still beautiful. I became curious about many things. I questioned others and myself about life and how some things happen to certain people. I wondered why people behave the way they do. I looked for the answers. I have developed the strength to persevere. But that is not enough. I want to become a survivor who is able to balance her life and enjoy the abundance that the universe has to offer. I have decided to break myself free from the shackles of my fragile upbringing. I promise myself that I will not allow my past to continue ruining my future. This child has grown up and will not weep in silence anymore.

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

How I Rose From Abject Poverty By: Aaron Robinson As I sit back in my office chair, gazing at the computer monitor that has a graphical layout of Consciousness Magazine, I begin to reminisce about some of the obstacles and challenges I went through. At a younger age, these challenges molded my life long passion for creativity that has motivated me up to this point. Going through these stages were long lasting, inspiring, artistic, and unpredictable. In most scenarios, these unpredictable events would seem to have had a negative impact on my life, but instead, led me down a righteous path that has always had a happy ending. If it weren't for these challenges I may have never developed my skills in fine arts and recording rap and hip-hop vocals. I say this because trials and tribulations, life long pain, and believing in a higher power has motivated me to become passionately aware of the gifts I was blessed with. When these talents were combined with my social, interpersonal, disciplined, and leadership skills, the innovative "Consciousness Magazine" was born. Consciousness Magazine wasn't an overnight realization; it took nearly a year of strategic business planning after graduating from Columbia College in Chicago and living the life as a starving hip-hop recording artist and professional graphic designer. I can remember when the manifestation of this project was only a thought. About three years ago, at a grocery store on the West side of Chicago, I saw a vision that I was changing people's lives by inspiring them. I came to a halt and began reflecting on the environment I was living in at the present time. At this given moment, my spirit was uneasy, due to the fact that I was upset with the ignorance of people in general. I told my business partner Lahad about the vision, and that a pamphlet is needed to provide people with inspiring information that they may not be conscious of. He said, "That's a great idea!".

I felt as if this could be the catalyst to address people's problems and complaints. It was our calling to help "make a difference!" I felt as if I needed to take action and do something about this perpetual epidemic of ignorance that is causing people to destroy themselves and others. A couple of years later I drew out the conceptual layout of the pamphlet. I never anticipated developing a magazine so early at the beginning of my career. While pursuing and working diligently on many projects in my life, I can say that Consciousness Magazine has been the most challenging, especially pulling together a group of people for a staff that have full time jobs, families, or are college students. My staff started off with about 10 people. At the completion of this issue only four of those original members were still around. Nevertheless, God blessed me with about 30 or more people who played an important role in putting together this publication. While continuing to reminisce on life over the past several years, I believe that my childhood drove me to start my own business, Atron Productions, Incorporated. I always knew that I would someday be an entrepreneur. I consider myself to have noble intentions. I want people to know that there is hope out here. For the longest time I was struggling and I was determined to be a voice for people letting them know that they can overcome all obstacles that may be set in front of them. With this in mind, I pulled together my staff and contributors to put together a magazine that has these qualities. These days' people need inspiration, a need I feel that they don't get satisfied from contemporary media outlets. This belief was shaped by my youth and life experiences. I was born on the Westside of Chicago. When I was a few years old, my parents moved my siblings, mentally ill uncle, and I to Hopkins Park, Illinois, a poverty stricken rural area. My father being a shade tree carpenter and my mother a house-wife; it was hard for my siblings and I to get some of the things we needed for school and as children. I can recall only having two pair of pants when I was in the fifth grade. Students showed no empathy when they saw me wear clothes back-to-back along with the holes that were noticeable in my shoes. It didn't bother me. I always knew that I would one day grow into a man and be able to get everything I ever desired. Being blessed with the talents to be a fine artist, I knew that there would be a possible way out of poverty. This belief along with people constantly telling me, at a young age, how important an education is are the key reasons as to why I always wanted to help people change their lives so that they would not have to go through the embarrassment and shame I've been through. I didn't know how I was going to pursue this at such a young age. I always had a strong family. Like most families, we had our problems. I honor my mother who has "Southern hospitality." She instilled in her children the importance of values and family at a young age. My siblings and I are all close. We all went to college except my oldest sister who became mentally ill at a young age. The family encountered a lot of tough times. I lost count of all the times that I can recall our electric being shut off, and going without a house phone for months due to lack of finances to pay the bills. During these conditions it was sometimes difficult for us to meet some of our everyday needs such as eating the necessary foods for a complete diet. The winters were worse but we strived every year to make life better. I can recall us having a wood heater. We would block off the rooms and all of us would sleep in the kitchen or living room bundled up to keep warm. Some nights before school, we washed our clothes with our hands. We would hang them up over a fan to dry. On warm days we would leave them to dry on an outdoor clothing line or fence. Also, when the electric was cut off we pumped water from an outside well to supply us with water. We protected and concealed our foods in metal or plastic containers to protect it from the rats and roaches that contributed to the extra holes in the walls and floors of a once condemned home that was progressively renovated by my father. Since then, a new home has been built due to the fact that our house was burnt to the ground several years ago because of a furnace problem. I can recall there was nearly two feet of snow on the ground during the time of the burning. It was a blessing that everyone made it out safely. This was a difficult time of our life, especially when we had no home insurance. Could you imagine the only thing you owned were the clothes you stood shivering in on a freezing winter day? By the time the fire department arrived to our property, there was only one wall standing. Since then, I learned to not take anything for granted, appreciating life and valuing people to the fullest. During the time of the

fire, I was a student at Kankakee Community College. My grades began to drop. I dropped one class. I felt deprived, feeling as if I had nothing to live for. I basically gave up all hope and faith. I was enrolled in two art classes and also gave up on those. Prior to the burning, I could recall on a daily basis waking up around 3 in the morning to work on art pieces. Sad to say, that drive was no longer there. I now found myself with nothing to do. While our family was partially living with my Aunt Olivia, I had to plan days ahead to figure out how I was going to commute from Hopkins Park to school four times a week. It became very difficult because I did not have reliable transportation at the time and didn't know where my next meal or money was going to come from. My parents needed to spend more time running around trying to get life back in order after the fire and the car wasn't always available to me. Sometimes I packed extra clothes in my book bag and lived out of it occasionally. Since the college was 20-30 minutes away from Hopkins Park I sometimes stayed with a friend or my sister who lived in Kankakee. Having no place to stay and bouncing from house to house was very detrimental. Nevertheless, I never made any excuses not to go to class. I knew that I had to be in class even if I was discouraged and didn't do the homework for the next day. Stepping foot in the school always gave me a sense that I was still doing something with my life.. I just loved being in a productive atmosphere. Deep down inside I was angry at the world, wanting a normal life. I would always question myself: "Why am I going through so much hardship?" The influential people in my life such as family, friends, strangers, and my former art instructors helped me to change my negative attitude, and thinking pattern on how I felt about life at the time. This is one of the reasons I hope to give out scholarships, so that I can give someone the opportunity they think they may not have. As time progressed, God was looking over me as I cried out for help and wanting change. Within music, rather mine or others, I gradually found therapy, spirituality, and a source of healing power. I repetitively played the song "God's Grace" by the inspirational group Trinity 5:7. An insertion of the lyrics in the song reads: "No weapon formed against thee shall prosper." I strongly believe in this quote, which is a partial verse from Isaiah 54:55. Some people may assume I am religious but I'm a spiritual and humble individual. I don't think that categories and titles make up a persons character; it's all about what's in his or her heart. If it wasn't for my passion for the arts, I may have fallen victim to the influence of taking more to the street life or maybe ended up as another statistical black male in the court system by making uneducated and unwise decisions. Believe me, nothing came easy. If you have a gift you must continue to perfect it. That makes it more rewarding. It kept me out of trouble. As, far as I can remember, I continued to draw, paint, write, record, and take up hobbies, such as collecting sports trading cards to escape my reality. I didn't know that it was going to have so much of an impact upon my future and the lives of others. I can recall drawing graphical images at a younger age. During that time, I didn't know that I was in preparation to earn a B.F.A. in Graphic Design or working on a magazine publication. When I was recording music with a small radio and speaking into a broken microphone, I didn't know that I was going to meet and perform with a professional music artist, or get interviewed for radio stations. Sometimes my life reminds me of the Richard Wright biography "Black Boy." While Reading this book many years ago I can relate to some of the trials and tribulations he overcame, such as leaving the South and moving to Chicago for a better opportunity to become a successful writer. Along the same lines, I once moved to Chicago to finish college to become a successful artist. Also, when Wright was younger, his house burned down. As I went back and read the book for the second time, I became mesmerized, drawn into the story of his life thinking, does Richard Wright live in me? He may not but he really motivated me to express myself by writing, whether it was lyrics for music or dialog for a movie script. I like to write in my spare time. Creative writing relieves my stress. For the most part, it positions me in my own world. I can say that I've truly been blessed. Sometimes you may feel that it's the end of the world as you cope with certain problems or situations. All along, it is happening for a reason. At the same time, we must acknowledge the small details in our life that cause us to have problems. Sometimes we consciously or unconsciously make incorrect decisions, which lead to pain and suffering. In most cases, situations are unpredictable. Work them out, move on, and try to make some

sense out of the situation if you can. Don't dwell on the problem if it can't be fixed at the moment. Let time take its course. Then go to your favorite relaxation spot like I go to my office. Sit back, reminisce, meditate and appreciate the present moment.

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

A Touch of Heaven. By: Tim Reynolds It had been a very disheartening day. The doctors had given us the worst of news. Our daughter, who had just completed her first brain surgery to remove a tumor and was going through radiation treatments, was now offically given a two percent chance of survival as this type of cancer had no cure. My wife and I decided to take our daughter to lunch before continuing our afternoon conversations. We went to a local resteraunt where we sat in silence waiting for the waitress. Our daughter Molly wouldn't hear of such sadness or silence so she played happily with crayons and paper while we sat and stared at the floor. I noticed a very elderly couple sitting a few booths away, they too in silence never speaking a word. I couldn't help but wonder what challenges they had faced in their life and if they ever faced such terrible news about a child of theirs. We eventually ordered our lunch and still sitting in silence we ate what we could. At some point I became intrigued by the old couple and I watched them more intently with each passing minute. I thought to myself that they hadn't yet spoken to each other and I wondered if it was the peace they were enjoying or the food or maybe both. However, at some point I lost interest and put my focus back on my lunch. Molly was still talking away and enjoying her meal and her mom and I both listened and tried to be happy in her presence but it wasn't going very well. All of a sudden I saw this hand come out of nowhere. It was huge and I could tell that it had been afflicted with arthritis. The knuckles were swollen and the fingers were crooked and off center. I couldn't take my eyes of that hand. The hand drifted down and landed on my daughter's tiny six year old hand and as it did I looked up; it was the old woman who had been sitting with the old man in silence eating their lunch. I looked into her eyes and she spoke, but not to me. She looked at my daughter and simply whispered, "If I could do more for you I would." And then she smiled and moved away to join her husband who had moved towards the door. I heard a "Hey look, a whole dollar." Molly spoke with excitment as she discovered that the old lady had placed a crumpled one dollar bill on the back of her hand. I looked down and saw the dollar bill and quickly realized that it had been left behind by the old lady. I looked up to thank her, but she was gone. I sat stunned, not sure what had just happended and then I looked over at my wife. In almost unison, we broke out into a smile. The sadness of the day had been wiped out by the crippled hand and generous touch of an old lady. The dollar, although exciting to Molly, was not what made us smile or begin to feel differently, it was the offer from an old lady who felt our hurt and our suffering. The crippled hand

symbolized a healing touch and made us realize that we did not have to fight this battle alone; that others cared and wanted to help. We felt up-lifted and soon our day filled with more happy thoughts as we spent the rest of our lunch planning the next day at home with fun filled activities for eveyone. I will never forget that crippled arthritic hand that taught us such an important lesson. One does not have to go through life facing hardships all alone; the world is full of compassionate and understanding people. Even those that are suffering from their own afflictions have much to give to each other. The hand that covered Molly's on that day still covers it. And although Molly is no longer with me, I can see her holding hands with that old lady now, both hands perfect and both faces filled with smiles and laughter. And though Heaven has these two perfect angels now, the lessons that they both taught me will remain forever in my heart.

Motivational and Inspirational Stories

Climb Every Mountain In Life By: Sean Swarner I'm actually the first (and only) cancer survivor to summit the world's highest mountain... Mt. Everest. When I was only 13, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease and given three months to live. When I was 15, I was diagnosed with Askin's Sarcoma. The prognosis was much worse as the doctors gave me only two weeks to live. Again, I survived. Being the only person in the world to have ever had these two cancers, I really felt I should share my story to help motivate others and influence lives. On May 16th, 2002 at 9:32am, I became the first cancer survivor to summit Mt. Everest. Since then, I have been lucky enough to reach the summits of three more of the world's seven highest peaks and have spoken internationally about my life and adventures to countless people and organizations. On the summit of Everest I brought a flag adorned with names of people who have been affected by cancer and left it on the top of the world forever commemorating the struggle of cancer patients worldwide. I did the same to the highest point in Africa, Europe and just recently returned from 23,000foot Aconcagua in South America! My ultimate goal is to climb the highest mountain on each continent AND trek to the North and South poles. I am covering the globe with inspiration. There are plans for live chat sessions during the expeditions as well as TV spots and live summit bids from a number of the mountains! The reason for these expeditions is to inspire those affected by cancer (as well as anyone with a pulse!) to dream big and never give up.

My Uncomfortable Secret to Motivation

A five-letter word is my secret. As you probably know, routine casts a trance-like power with devastating impact. As a result, it is an absolute necessity to break free of its grasp.

If you can't find a way out of the vicious pattern and into a new set of thoughts, feelings, and actions, you have no hope of changing or improving your life. Consider this five-letter word my guaranteed release. Working with remarkable speed, it personally shakes me out of autopilot, delivers an eye-opening wake-up call, and motivates with more force than anything I know. Not bad for a five-letter word. My hope--and my assumption--is that it will have the same positive effect on you. The Word, My Release I know a time will come when I'll no longer be able to act on the things I want, the things I've dreamed about experiencing and things I've always wished to become. I will have to let them go. I will have to let go of all those exciting ideas I tossed about in my mind, all the goals carefully constructed while daydreaming. They will have to be put to rest, once and for all. And I will never experience them. Never. This is a frightening thought for me. It is startling, can be gut-wrenching, and tip-toes toward terrifying. But it's also something else. And it's here, on the other side of the coin, that I find my secret. The Flip-Side of the Word Coming to grips with reality can be scary. So much so, that most men and women choose the other door. They hide from the truth and tuck their dreams into the fairytale 'someday.' 'I'll do it someday...someday.' A sigh of relief follows and it's back to the safe and comfy routine. No need to face fears, no need to rise to challenges, no need to take action. That will all happen someday--but not today. If only this were true. It is not. Here is the truth: Someday eventually meets the edge of the cliff. Someday eventually runs out. Someday eventually turns into never. Frightening? Perhaps. But it's also your way out. It's also your release from the routine that strangles your hopes and dreams. By focusing intently--and I mean intently-- on 'never,' in regard to your lifelong wishes and wants, you will be shocked out of your pattern of procrastination and jolted into a new mindset. You'll have the motivation you need to stop hesitating because you know, without question, if you keep it up, you'll never experience the life you've been waiting for all these years. Without action, talk is only noise. Below is what I do in particular to get the most out of this fiveletter word. It's something you can do, anytime and any place, to dismantle procrastination and ignite your inner drive.

Action Steps - Short & Sweet Think of something you want. Not a lip-service dream, but something you truly desire, something either for yourself or for someone else. Our results have shown that people imagine themselves experiencing the joys of progress or success when asked to think of a goal. This time I want you to do the opposite. I want you to imagine, vividly, that your idea, your chosen dream or goal, cannot happen. No matter what you do, you'll never get it. Never. Never. If you do it right, you'll feel anxious, like you have to get up out of your seat right now and do something before time runs out. This is the power of 'never.' Don't hide from the truth. Let it smack you in the face and punch you in the gut. Only then can it snap you out of the routine and drive you into action. Only then can it change your life. If you don't do something now, you may never do it then. Never hide, never avoid, never run from 'never.' Use it as a fire to place beneath your greatest ideas and accept it as a truth that can set you free. Embrace...'never.'

The Real Killer of Motivation

Routine is a murderer. Years ago, before starting the Motivation123 Web site, I had pockets full of plans and ideas. My mind was in a constant state of activity. As for my reality, nothing ever changed. Nothing in my life went in the directions I had hoped for. It got to the point that I began to doubt whether or not a better life was even possible. Could I change? Then, while paging through a magazine at the doctor's office, I came across a question, just a short team of words that gripped my attention. It was simple--as most powerful truths are--but it made an immediate impact. And from that day I possessed a key to progress that has served me ever since. Before we get to that answer, however, we need to pin down the problem. The Killer In a word, it's routine. It's the pattern of living that, like molten lava, slowly crawls into adulthood, covering and consuming our hopes, dreams, and ambitions. It's doing the same thing every day because that's what you've always done. It's a vicious circle of repeating actions and events that leads to nowhere. The reason nothing was changing in my life was because I was stuck in a routine. Every day I followed the same basic outline of living: wake, work, sleep, repeat.

I had new ideas, to be sure, but my actions were old. Then I was hit with the truth while waiting - for what seemed like weeks - in my doctor's waiting room. The Question I Took with Me The sad reality is that most people never realize what is happening until it's too late. That is the skill and cunning of habit and routine. It wraps its arms around the minutes and hours of your life, distracting and luring you into autopilot, into a dazed mode of living. All the while, the little time you have to construct your ideal experiences is being sucked away, stolen. Routine is a murderer. It kills hope and the chance for change. It blinds us to the truth and with a scalpel cuts away our goals and ideas. Routine puts a hand in the face of growth and improvement, leaving room for nothing but the same. You need a way out of the routine. And for me, the way out came in the form of a question: 'If you continue to follow the same patterns, what are the chances you'll ever experience the things you want to do and ever become the person you hope to be?' I read the sentence again. What would my chances be? Things hadn't worked out so far, so why would doing the same thing result in anything different? My Realization I had my answer. My chances were none. I would never do the things I had always thought about, never grow into the character I hoped for. If I followed the same routines, the same patterns, I could expect pretty much what I had been getting. For some, this is the perfect scenario. But for me, I wanted more. I knew how much life had to offer and I wanted to dive in head first. I wanted to experience it all and live a life worth living again. I looked around the office, looked at the people next to me. None of us would reach that place without a change in pattern. We were all trapped in a circle of habit. This brings us face to face with a truth that most men and women would rather avoid. It's relieving to let our goals live in 'someday.' We don't have to worry about never attaining them. Instead, we can put them off and fool ourselves. 'It will happen someday.' No, it won't. The truth is, if you don't change your routine now, you will never reach those goals. You will never wake up to a life that matches the one in your mind. Never. Don't hide from this. Accept it. Embrace it. Use it to smash through the chains of routine and drive you into a new way of life, into a new pattern of progress.

The Real Killer of Motivation

Routine is a murderer.

Years ago, before starting the Motivation123 Web site, I had pockets full of plans and ideas. My mind was in a constant state of activity. As for my reality, nothing ever changed. Nothing in my life went in the directions I had hoped for. It got to the point that I began to doubt whether or not a better life was even possible. Could I change? Then, while paging through a magazine at the doctor's office, I came across a question, just a short team of words that gripped my attention. It was simple--as most powerful truths are--but it made an immediate impact. And from that day I possessed a key to progress that has served me ever since. Before we get to that answer, however, we need to pin down the problem. The Killer In a word, it's routine. It's the pattern of living that, like molten lava, slowly crawls into adulthood, covering and consuming our hopes, dreams, and ambitions. It's doing the same thing every day because that's what you've always done. It's a vicious circle of repeating actions and events that leads to nowhere. The reason nothing was changing in my life was because I was stuck in a routine. Every day I followed the same basic outline of living: wake, work, sleep, repeat. I had new ideas, to be sure, but my actions were old. Then I was hit with the truth while waiting - for what seemed like weeks - in my doctor's waiting room. The Question I Took with Me The sad reality is that most people never realize what is happening until it's too late. That is the skill and cunning of habit and routine. It wraps its arms around the minutes and hours of your life, distracting and luring you into autopilot, into a dazed mode of living. All the while, the little time you have to construct your ideal experiences is being sucked away, stolen. Routine is a murderer. It kills hope and the chance for change. It blinds us to the truth and with a scalpel cuts away our goals and ideas. Routine puts a hand in the face of growth and improvement, leaving room for nothing but the same. You need a way out of the routine. And for me, the way out came in the form of a question: 'If you continue to follow the same patterns, what are the chances you'll ever experience the things you want to do and ever become the person you hope to be?' I read the sentence again. What would my chances be? Things hadn't worked out so far, so why would doing the same thing result in anything different? My Realization I had my answer. My chances were none.

I would never do the things I had always thought about, never grow into the character I hoped for. If I followed the same routines, the same patterns, I could expect pretty much what I had been getting. For some, this is the perfect scenario. But for me, I wanted more. I knew how much life had to offer and I wanted to dive in head first. I wanted to experience it all and live a life worth living again. I looked around the office, looked at the people next to me. None of us would reach that place without a change in pattern. We were all trapped in a circle of habit. This brings us face to face with a truth that most men and women would rather avoid. It's relieving to let our goals live in 'someday.' We don't have to worry about never attaining them. Instead, we can put them off and fool ourselves. 'It will happen someday.' No, it won't. The truth is, if you don't change your routine now, you will never reach those goals. You will never wake up to a life that matches the one in your mind. Never. Don't hide from this. Accept it. Embrace it. Use it to smash through the chains of routine and drive you into a new way of life, into a new pattern of progress.

Get Them in Writing

It's critical that you get them in writing. Not goals or ambitions. No, we're not talking about creating a clear target. Instead, we're talking about uncovering a clear obstacle. Few people like to admit that they're afraid to do something. They also don't enjoy admitting that they'd rather not work toward improvement. The way out? The always-available excuse. What's Your Excuse? Whether it's a packed schedule or the fact of kids still in school, people will reach for anything that gets them out of the hot water of fear or sacrifice. It's not that you're afraid to break free of your dead-end job and find something truly rewarding; it's simply that you don't have the time right now. Obviously, with excuses covering up the truth, nothing ever changes. And even more clear is the fact that you need to break free of these destructive traps of illusion. Where to Begin Because these little nuggets of falsehood have enjoyed so much use in the past, it's difficult to call them out the moment they rise to the surface; they've become so ingrained that using an excuse is more of reflex than rational thought. This problem is solved with a pen and paper. By writing out, word for word, the excuses you've used in the past to avoid doing things that scare you or things that require sacrifice, you'll shine the light on your rationalizations. You can even ask friends or family the typical reasons' you've offered to explain your inaction. When you've uncovered your patterns of explanation, you'll be ready the next moment they come

to mind. Instead of talking you out of action, you'll know better. You'll know it's just your excuse reflex at work and finally break free of the trap of rationalization.

An Olympic Lesson in Motivation

The saying goes: The expert in anything was once a beginner in everything. Truer words were never spoken. But this isn't what we see. This isn't what we feel when we watch these Olympians. It isn't what we think when we watch any expert or great success. We see the finished product, shining brightly in designer packaging. We see triumph and achievement, not training. We see the riches, not the rags. And this, as much as anything else, is why motivation - that inner drive that carries us toward all we desire - continues to escape us. Today that comes to an end. Today I will open your eyes to a new way of viewing the changes you wish to carry out and the challenges that are attempting to stop you. The Olympians we admire might possess unique physical talent and natural gifts, but that inner fire that compels them forward is within us all. It's time to set it free. Authors Don't Write Books Whether it's a a friend who lost forty pounds or a track star streaking across the screen, our eyes can only see what is in front of us. And more often than not, that picture of success is daunting. It's overwhelming, to see ourselves reaching those heights. No, it's more than that. It's unbelievable. When we view success at its peak, we feel separated from it. We see ourselves as incapable of doing something similar. Take a book, for instance. Seeing a novel on a shelf leads to the same conclusion in the minds of anyone posed with the question: 'Oh, I could never write a book.' This view is all wrong. The reason? Authors don't write books. What Do Authors Write? Authors don't write books; authors write words. This is one of the most important ideas to understand. I know it sounds simple, but it separates those who progress from those who wish and wait. We've already said that most see the finished product and feel overwhelmed by the prospect of achieving the same goal. If this only occurred when watching an Olympic athlete, there would be little issue. But that's not how it works. We get that same sense of inability when viewing any worthwhile achievement. Losing weight, finding a new career, starting a business or new relationship, overcoming personal debt - these are outcomes millions wish to pursue but don't believe they can achieve.

They can't see past the finished product. To get motivated, to truly ignite your drive, you must see your goals as achievable. You must believe in yourself and your abilities. You must see success, not as a matter of unattainable greatness, but merely as a matter of time. Losing weight begins with a single decision. Finding the job you love begins with a single Google search. And starting a new relationship begins with a single look. The world is built upon blocks, not one massive stone. One step, one movement, one decision, one action. These are the things that feed success. These are things that you can do today.

Where Do You Shine?

Money is not the key to happiness. More stuff' is not the key to happiness. Winning the lottery and spending the rest of your life on a tropical island - while intoxicating to the ear - is not the key to happiness. What is, on the other hand, is exciting news. Over the past few years, science and psychology have been experiencing quite a shift in focus, thanks to men such as Dr. Martin Seligman. It couldn't have come too soon. The New Psychology Through his work at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Seligman has created an entirely new branch of psychology. Instead of focusing solely on neuroses in life, he decided to study what makes us feel good. Since the first days of his groundbreaking work, positive psychology has definitely caught on. One of the focuses of this branch is - you guessed it - happiness. Through the work of countless positive psychologists, the path to such feelings has become more and more clear. The Key to Happiness They've discovered through their clinical investigations that happiness is tied tightly to your strengths - the things you're good at. People have been proven to be happiest when applying their unique skills toward a challenging project or goal. You don't need millions of dollars or a personal island to be happy. All that you need is already within you. Discover your strengths, apply them to a challenging goal, and you'll see for yourself.

Having Enthusiasm
Author: Catherine Pulsifer

Having enthusiasm in performing any task gives you an abundance of energy. Harry Truman demonstrated his wisdom when he said, "I studied the lives of great men and famous women, and I found that the men and women who got to the top were those who did the jobs they had in hand, with everything they had of energy and enthusiasm." Showing enthusiasm also motivates others around you. People naturally want to be around people who are upbeat and have energy.

An acronym for enthusiasm: E nergy N imble T enacious H appy U nbeatable S elf-confidence I nexhaustible A chievable S uccess M otivated Those who demonstrate enthusiasm are far more likely to succeed because of their attitude towards the task at hand. Someone who lacks enthusiasm rarely succeeds, and the reason is because of the attitude that they have. When they face a problem they are more likely to give up. An enthusiastic person believes in what they are doing. They are excited and look forward to the day to achieve the task at hand. They have self-confidence in themselves and will find solutions to any challenges that come along. Walter Chrysler once said, "The real secret of success is enthusiasm. Yes, more than enthusiasm, I would say excitement. I like to see men get excited. When they get excited they make a success of their lives. " The wisdom of his words still applies today. We all have a choice, we can decide to be enthusiastic or we can just put in the day. If you are working at a job that you are not enthusiastic about, then find work that excites you. If you need to improve your skills to get that job, then take courses and learn all you can. You will find your life is much happier if you are doing something that excites you rather than bores you. Having enthusiasm for what you are doing does not mean you won't face challenges or difficulties, but you will be able to overcome these difficulties as long as you keep your attitude positive. Put lots of enthusiasm in all you do!
More wisdom about Enthusiasm "Enthusiasm is contagious. Be a carrier." Susan Rabin "Enthusiasm is the most important thing in life." Tennessee Williams "Enthusiasm is excitement with inspiration, motivation, and a pinch of creativity." Bo Bennett "Act enthusiastic and you will be enthusiastic." Dale Carnegie

"Enthusiasm is the greatest asset in the world. It beats money, power and influence." Henry Chester

Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/havingenthusiasm/index.html#Uzjof4rVzJupCWjS.99

The Principles of Gossip

Author Catherine Pulsifer

Gossip is the greatest abuse and waste of time and energy. Everyone adds on his or her own personal bias, interpretation, and bitterness. We used to play a children's game where we all sat in a circle and one person would whisper a sentence to the next person. By the time it was repeated again to the first person, the sentence was completely different! Gossip is based on the same principle. People who spend their time finding fault or gossiping about others, are certainly not the kind of people you want as friends. Those who gossip to you may also gossip about you. If you can't say anything positive about someone, don't say anything. Nothing productive is ever achieved as a result of spreading, or listening to gossip. Don't waste your time! You can make more productive use of it. More wisdom on gossip: There is so much good in the worst of us, and so much bad in the best of us, that it hardly becomes any of us to talk about the rest of us. Edward Wallis Hoch When you throw dirt, you lose ground. Texan Proverb Two things are bad for the heart - running up stairs and running down people. Bernard Baruch A rumor without a leg to stand on will get around some other way. John Tudor What some invent, the rest enlarge. Jonathan Swift Rumor travels faster, but it don't stay put as long as truth. Will Rogers Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/pg/index.html#myv8Q60g11AMMg8c.99

Inspirational People

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

We all have inspirational people in our lives; people who have encouraged and inspired us to believe in ourselves. Many of these people have inspired me by their books and recordings. Their words of wisdom are ones that can apply to all of our lives. They share their knowledge and wisdom to make a difference in the lives of many. They have inspired and have been a role model for many.

Ordinary People With Extraordinary Gifts

You may through the course of a lifetime find inspirational people in your life who are not famous, are not authors, nor are they motivational speakers. These can be what might be termed ordinary people with an extraordinary gift to inspire those around them. These special inspiring people may be someone you meet at work and that person could be a co-worker, or a supervisor who excels at leading people through example, through skilled coaching sessions, and one who always sees the solution instead of the problem. It could also be a person that you meet at church, or in a bowling league, or a schoolteacher or a minister, or the neighbor next door. It doesn't matter who the person is or isn't in terms of a position of importance; the real matter is that they are inspiring and uplifting.

Quotes From Some of The People Who Have Inspired Me

"You teach best what you most need to learn." Richard Bach "There's no scarcity of opportunity to make a living at what you love. There is only a scarcity of resolve to make it happen." Wayne Dyer "No one can cheat you out of ultimate success but yourself." Ralph Waldo Emerson "Strong, deeply rooted desire is the starting point of all achievement." Napoleon Hill "Never skimp on that extra effort, that additional few minutes, that soft word of praise or thanks, that delivery of the very best that you can do." Og Mandino "A dream is your creative vision for your life in the future. You must break out of your current comfort zone and become comfortable with the unfamiliar and the unknown." Denis Waitley "Change, like sunshine, can be a friend or a foe, a blessing or a curse, a dawn or a dusk." William Arthur Ward "The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate." Oprah Winfrey "The most successful people on the planet have failed more than ordinary ones." Robin Sharma The Greatness Guide

The One Thing They All Have In Common

I am sure you will recognize some of these people as they have been a role model and have inspired millions of people. The one thing they all have in

common is their attitude towards life. They tend to look at the positive side of things. The other common factor is their willingness to encourage others. Think of the people who have touched your life, look at their outlook on life and their philosophies. Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/inspirationalpeople/index.html#5GqF11xSQOJ YTdGC.99

Success Are You Determined

What determines success - a question often asked. Is the answer luck, or is it hard work, or is it attitude. Here in this thought you will find words of wisdom that attempt to answer the question of success using Walt Disney as the example.

Inspirational Thoughts

Success Are You Determined

by Catherine Pulsifer, 2011

Imagine a world without Disneyland. A lot of people thought Walt Disney's dream was ludicrous. Imagine a theme park covering many acres of land. Think back to the 1950's and imagine someone talking about a theme park. Who would ever invest that much money for a park, and even if you found investors how many people would actually come and visit such a theme park; especially where the main character was a mouse. Many people laughed at his ideas while others told him it was impossible. Walt Disney had a dream, a strong determination, and a strong belief. He had goals and a vision - he could imagine what others could not see. He made it happen. If he had listened to all those who told him his dream was impossible, we would not have the Disney resorts we have today. I am sure he had doubts, and was tempted to believe what others told him, but his own vision was strong. He invested a good majority of his money in making this dream of Disneyland a reality. And, of course he invested his time and energy. There are countless situations where individuals were told it was impossible, yet they went on to achieve success. They didn't let others discourage them. They persevered against great odds in some cases. I believe it all comes down to your own outlook: - if you think it is impossible, then it is; if you think it can be achieved, then what you see is not the impossible, but the end result. Many people have defeated themselves before they even started by thinking that their goal is not possible. And just as many people have had great successes because they believed that their goal was achievable. - if you believe in yourself then you will find a way no matter what obstacles and challenges you face along the way. You will see these obstacles as opportunities. If you look at an obstacle as an opportunity you will find ways, you will use your creativity and find a solution that will solve the obstacle. Sometimes, obstacles are actually gifts, as they make us look at situations in a different way. - and, if you are determined then you have a 90% chance of success. Your own attitude can determine your success or your failure. If you have determination then there is no stopping you. Determination gives us the ability to overcome challenges. It also gives us the belief that we can do it - no matter what anyone else thinks or believes. Always keep Walt Disney in mind, use his success as encouragement to achieve your dreams.

And Then Some

Author: Catherine Pulsifer, 2011

Recently, I was talking with a friend and they were telling me about a speech they had read. The speech was about a salesman and the one simple principal of success that he saw over and over again in successful people. He saw: They were successful in obtaining top positions because when it came to their work, they did what needed to be done and then some. They had the happiest families and these were not the ones that were rich but the ones who spent time with each other, helped each other, and had respect for each other, and then some. They had strong friendships because they were friends who were good friends, and then some. They were always willing to help out, were kind, and thoughtful, and then some. In any situation, you knew you could always count on them and then some. They never gave up on any goals; when met with challenges they took action to over come the challenges and then some.

A Simple Principle

These three little words "and then some" are full of wisdom when you think about it. When I started thinking about it, you can apply these inspirational words to any situation in your life. You can always do what is needed to be done and then some. If you apply this principle, you will find that you will find success because over time "and then some" adds up to success. Unfortunately, not all people believe that they should give more than they have to. You probably know the type of person about whom I speak. They are the individuals who always leave a few minutes before closing time, or the ones that just goof around for the last half-hour of their workday, or go and visit another colleague to chat up until it is time to leave. But, do not let these type of people dissuade you from going the extra mile. You will not only feel good about your contribution, but extra conscientiousness is noticed more often than not.

Observations
During the course of many years, I have often observed those around me who have given more than a lot of others. And, one of the things I decided before I became a supervisor was to ensure that those who went that extra mile - and then some - not only received recognition but were rewarded at the year end when it was time for those yearly performance review. Even more recently, I have been in situations that I have thought of this principle and applied it, and it is amazing what happens. When it comes to your job, your

friendships, your family, your commitments, I invite you to do what you have to do and then some! Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/andthensome/index.html#2G5hUZZ2PezGubB s.99

Motivational Words in Front of You

Author: Catherine Pulsifer, 2012

We all need motivational thoughts and encouragement throughout the day, month and year. For some of us, these motivational snippets come from reading books that can give us our daily dose of inspiration, and for others, it means that something more visual is much more to our liking. The visual motivation I refer to is a product that is in front of you on a daily basis. This can be a motivational calendar that contains new inspirational words of wisdom for each day of the year. The way to use this calendar is varied including keeping it on your nightstand so you can flip to a new day when you awaken and keep this thought with you throughout the day. Or, you can keep a motivational calendar in your work area so that each day you start work, you can begin with a motivational quote that helps set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Sometimes, though, it may mean reading this same quote over and over again because you are faced with trying and difficult challenges and need a little more encouragement throughout the day. Some people also choose to purchase an inspirational picture or poster with a very appealing quote and picture that visually becomes embedded in your subconscious mind. Each time you face a stressful situation, an unpleasant task, or a demanding challenge, you can bring this vision of your posture or picture vividly into your consciousness. No matter what you employ as a method of motivation, one thing is for sure keep true to your desire to put inspirational thoughts at the forefront of your day, your life, and your thinking. You cannot be positive and move forward with life if you struggle with negative thinking. There are great way to keep those motivational words in front of you which will have a positive impact on your thinking.

Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/motivationalproductsty/index.html#PvGPDajm0VCX2x8q.99

Failure Is A Golden Opportunity

How can you make sure you never experience failure. Read this thought and ponder the words of wisdom in it for the answer.

Inspirational Thoughts

Dreams Can Be Achieved

By Catherine Pulsifer

It really doesn't matter who you are, old, young, or whatever occupation. The most common thing we have in common is our desire to be more, or to live the life that may have once been only a dream. For some of us though, dreams are the closest we ever get to have a different life, or to be engaged in a lifestyle that better fits our daily fantasy. So, what makes the difference? Is it luck? Is it having a mentor to guide us down the right road? Is it simply being in the right place at the right time? For me, I thought I'd never leave my corporate position. I had a career that a lot of people would envy including a good salary, and great benefits. But, as the years rolled by, I experienced more and more dissatisfaction with the on-going politics and the never-ending demands of working to propel someone else's business forward. I came to the realization that I wanted to spend my energy working on my own business or businesses that gave me not only personal satisfaction, but gave me control and to benefit from the fruits of my own labour. Some of you reading this thought as long time visitors know part of my story. For others, let me just say that I made the move away from the corporate world and, although it wasn't always easy, it was accomplished using my 3 favourite P's - patience, persistence and perseverance. Nothing in life is achieved without hard work, and the ability to overcome challenges. It wasn't any different for me. One of my goals was to develop a small business that could help support our lifestyle, a lifestyle of basics not of excess, a lifestyle that would allow us to do what we wanted, what we loved, and what would allow us to be creative. And, it wasn't that we didn't attempt a few things that didn't work out. With perseverance as our ally, we were able to find, grow, and benefit from an art form that was both fun and creative. That art form was the creation of fused glass jewellery products and fused glass motivational products. And, at this point, we are able to say that people throughout many parts of the world have enjoyed our fused glass one-of-a-kind products. The point is this; don't let obstacles stand in your way; learn to view failures as an opportunity to find out what works and what doesn't work; develop the inner attitude of patience, persistence, and perseverance; and, defeat your own procrastination through action not dreaming. Part of our success is the joy of having our son be involved in our business, and his enthusiasm in helping us succeed by creating an on-line store that will allow many more people to enjoy one or more of our creations, creations that were once only a dream. Dreams can come true.

Your Example
The personal example you set will do more to convince someone than all the eloquent speeches in the world. When you expect others to demonstrate a certain type of behaviour, ask yourself if your behaviour exemplifies what you expect of others.
Author: Catherine Pulsifer, 1998

Personal examples of behavior not only include verbal messages you send by the way you speak to others but also how you encourage others.

Consistency Is Key

The best part of setting examples is that you have a constant influence but you must be aware that everything you say is being watched. It is something like training a dog to adopt a new behavior. One thing about training, or setting examples, is that you must be consistent. For example, in training a dog to sit you must always get the dog to sit every time you give the command. You cannot allow the dog to disobey at any time or, the dog will think that this command only applies once and awhile. Consistency is the key just as it is in setting an example for human consumption. As Oliver Goldsmith once said, "You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips."

Pull By Example
If you take a piece of string and push it, it will not go in the direction you want. But, if you take that same piece of string and pull it along, the string will move in the same direction. That principle applies to people. Don't push them along; pull them along by your own actions, your behaviour, your enthusiasm, and your determination. Reflect on the words of Albert Schweitzer, "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing." Everyone has an opportunity to set an example even if they think they do not. We set an example with every word, with every motion, and with everything we do or do not say. Some of these examples of behavior are those that we do that we do not expect to observe by others but they happen all the time.

A Misstep To Watch For

Some of those occasions when we would rather not be observed setting a poor example can happen to us all at anytime and at any place. Some of these times can occur quite innocently especially when we are over tired or under extreme stress. These are the times, though, that we need to exercise tremendous control over our raw emotions and understand that what we do is what others may also do. This is extremely important in any family unit despite the fact that they are our closest loved ones. But, it doesn?t matter when you slip up and show uncontrolled emotion, it is invariably more often remembered rather than all those times when we were in absolute control and showed the right way to deal with any situation. The advent of not being in control and thereby not setting a proper example is easy to do rather than being in control. Take for example when a driver cuts you off in traffic. The normal reaction is to get angry or give them a rude gesture. But, this only shows that you are letting a circumstance that has no emotion attached to it, the power to exact a response from you.

Tests of Positive Actions and Behavior

Circumstances we meet throughout the day or week or month do not possess a soul nor do they have emotion. We are the ones who give them life through how we react or do not react. Take that driver, for example, that cut you off. Maybe they didn?t even realize they did it and off they go on their merry way without a care in the world while, in the meantime, you are fuming with fists gesturing and blood pressure rising. What is the better way to handle this especially if you have passengers like young adults who are about to get their license? Well, for sure, a negative behavior, or an inappropriate behavior or response does not set a positive example. Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/yourexample/index.html#olV1G4M8TdEjvMu4 .99

Dare 2 B U
Find wisdom written about music and the positive impact it has on all of our lives. Also, thoughts on being a winner and success. Be encouraged by the words of wisdom in these thoughts.

Inspirational Thoughts

Dare 2 B U
Author: Catherine Pulsifer

A few months ago I wrote an article featuring Jennie Emery. The article is titled Positive Music. As a result of writing that article I was contacted by Chris S. Salazar, from Dare2BU. I must say I was very pleased when I reviewed his website and found more positive music. "The mind grows by what it feeds on." Those words of wisdom are so very true. Our minds take in everything we read and listen to. Books we read, music we listen to, it all influences our lives. There are a lot of positive books available, however, positive music is not as plentiful. So needless to say I was delighted with the Dare2BU website! I now have two of the CD's from the site: Songs of Success (my favorite!) Dream Big (also good) I agree with the thoughts on the Dare2BU website. Below is info taken from the website: "There are numerous examples of people throughout the world who have overcome handicaps to achieve great success. One thing separates these winners from those who fail: they disregard any and all obstacles. These people-and all winners-possess the will to win. It's a will that starts with a belief in our ability to achieve the goals we dream of accomplishing. Unfortunately, the world does not provide much inspiration on a daily basis. From the reporting of mostly negative news, to a "20% chance of rain" mentality, to music that tells us that love must be a painful experience, most people have few daily reminders that they can obtain personal and professional greatness without having to win the lottery. Music is by far the most wonderful mthod we have to remind us each day of the power of personal accomplishment. And now-finally -the music industry has a new type of record company, one that is intensely dedicated to producing songs that inspire us all to accomplish great things."

Editors note: it is with regret that I update this thought to advise that unfortunately the website http://www.dare2bu.com/ is no longer live on the internet, but we feel the message they were conveying are still a valid ones!

Be A Possibilitarian
Author: Catherine Pulsifer

Nine people were discussing a business problem. The challenge they were facing was not there fault; it was circumstances beyond their control that resulted in this problem. But the problem needed to be resolved. The problem was identified, and they were discussing what they were going to do about it. "What will we do," asked one of them. One person immediately said, "There is nothing we can do." That response was unacceptable to the rest of the group and acted as a spark of action. "Yes, there is something we can do!" replied two of them in unison. It was at that point that their minds started to work coming up with solutions. And, a solution they did find! There is an old saying that contains wisdom that we all need to keep in our mind when we are faced with issues: "Instead of giving myself reasons why I can't, I give myself reasons why I can." We are all faced with challenges at some point in our life, challenges that we did not create. Challenges that happened beyond our control. The difference is how we respond to these challenges. You can adopt the attitude there is nothing you can do. You can think it is beyond your control, you didn't create the problem. When you accept this type of thinking the problem or issue will never be solved or fixed. Your mind shuts down when you think there is nothing that can be done. But, if you see the problem as an opportunity, or if you see the challenge as your call to action, it is amazing how your mind will work to create solutions because your attitude changes to one that will find creative ways to solve the issue at hand. . The next time you are faced with an issue don't shut down your mind by thinking there is nothing I can do. Remember the wisdom said by Norman Vincent Peale: "Become a 'possibilitarian'. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see the possibilities- Always see them, for they are always there."

Luck, Do You Have It?

By Catherine Pulsifer

Barbara Bush once said, "You don't just luck into things as much as you would like to think you do. You build step by step, whether it is friendships or opportunities." Her words of wisdom are ones that we need to remember. And to use the wisdom said by Thomas Jefferson, "I'm a great believer in luck,and I find the harder I work,the more I have of it." How you define luck - Jefferson defines luck as work. If the results of that work is luck then it changes your preception of what luck is. The truth is, some people do do not see the effort lucky people put in. Like everything else in this life, you must put in effort. To quote Zig Ziglar, "This I do know beyond any reasonable doubt. Regardless of what you are doing, if you pump long enough, hard enough and enthusiastically enough, sooner or later the effort will bring forth the reward." You see the same theme running through the words of these famous people - it appears to them that luck is actually the results of taking action and persevering. Good fortune does not happen because of luck. When someone gets a promotion, some people see this as luck. If they took a closer look, however, they would soon recognize how much harder successful people have worked, how much effort they've given, and how much dedication and commitment they've demonstrated in order to go that extra mile. Carl Zuckmeyer said, "One-half of life is luck; the other half is discipline and that's the important half, for without discipline you wouldn't know what to do with luck." Robert Collier said it best when he said, "All of us have bad luck and good luck. The man who persists through the bad luck, who keeps right on going, is the man who is there when the good luck comes, and is ready to receive it." So next time you feel like you don't have any luck, remember these wise words and keep on going - step by step, with enthusiasm, discipline and persistence, and you will find luck!

What We Believe
by Catherine Pulsifer

Many successes can be attributed to those who dream. Dreaming is a gift where you can see things not as they are, but as they could be. People who never dream, or never set goals, let life go by day by day letting others determine their destiny. Without dreams, you don?t set goals; you are forced to accept what you have today. As children, we had lots of dreams. When we get older, some of us lose our dreams and our ambitions, and are content to accept mediocrity. Everything that has ever been accomplished, every skyscraper, every bridge, every invention, every medical breakthrough, all started with a dream! We all have dreams and wishes. The difference is that dreams are there for you to do something with ? they are a component of hope for with out a dream there is no hope. A wish, however, is simply a desire to have something without doing anything to accomplish it. If you have a dream there is a chance to turn it into reality with a good plan of action and when coupled with a burning passion, there is hope that it will turn out. The main thing to remember is to stay focused long enough to bring it to completion. Nothing that is worth doing happens overnight and nothing can be accomplished without dedication and a willingness to overcome any obstacle in your path. Reflect on the wisdom below: "Those who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night." Edgar Allan Poe "The trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score." Bill Copeland "That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve it as well." Abraham Lincoln "Sometimes, people use age as a convenient excuse. 'I'm to old too start something new', or, 'I couldn't learn that at my age.' Other people, though, go on to acheive their greatest accomplishments in life in later years." Catherine Pulsifer

Perseverance is the Ability

by Catherine Pulsifer

"Perseverance allows you to get back on track when you hit a detour." Many people search for the one secret that will propel them forward. Some look for these secrets within countless articles, or speak to people who have made it big in a chosen field. What people are looking for is the one secret that they can duplicate so that, in some cases, they can avoid the work. Others will continuously search for this vital secret so that they can make it to the end of the rainbow, to have what they've always wanted, or to create a life where they have more control rather than letting others guide them down an unrewarding path. So, what can be learned by researching; what secret is there that will assist you in capturing your desires and making them real? For those who actually researched leaders, the inventors, the financially successful, there is one secret found within them all. Don't be disappointed. The secret is perseverance. Perseverance is the ability to keep going in the face of continuous challenges. It is the ability to disregard distractions and to stay focused. For every success, there are tons of failures. To those who know the secret, these failures served to help them identify ways that failed knowing full well that they would find the right way to succeed. Knowing the secret kept these people excited because it is with this secret engrained within their souls that they could defeat all those who gave up when met with obstacles, all those who use failure as a rationale to quit, and all those who think that success comes before work. So, what does failure have to do with attaining success? It teaches you that you may have to take detours to get to your end goal. But, as long as you persevere and realize that the detour is simply another alternative path in the direction of your goal, you will continue to move forward. Those who see a detour as a reason to quit, lack perseverance. You will always face challenges as you work towards your goals. To think there will be no obstacles is to think that a long lost millionaire relative will leave you a fortune. It takes effort and belief to persevere and stay dedicated to accomplish your goal. When you find yourself doubting whether the effort is worth it, visualize how you will feel and what you will have once your goal is completed. Perseverance means that you will not be satisfied until you attain what you want. It means that no matter how many people tell you you're foolish to even try, your inner strength will readily discount their negative speak. Within each person there is a spark; a spark that only you can ignite. Your spark will allow you to see a future that is more rewarding, which leads you to setting a goal, which leads you to take action where perseverance is your secret weapon. Now that you know the secret, what will your life be like in the future?

Is Your Career RIPE

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

The words of Christopher Morley often entered my thoughts during my career: "The fellow who doesn't need a boss is often selected to be one." Do you need someone to tell you what to do, when to do it, and how to do it? Or, are you the type of person who takes the initiative? Is your attitude solution oriented even when issues are not ones that you created. The people who reap the

rewards are those who go beyond their assigned duties.

Not Sure Why

Many people don't understand why they are by-passed for promotions. Some people think promotions should be given by seniority only. If they stopped and objectively looked at the differences between themselves and the person who got the promotion, they would see why they did not receive the promotion. Some people mentally quit their job years ago, but their body still goes to work every day. These types of people are quite willing to let others do their work for them. They are not solution oriented, their attitude is one that the company owes them. However, in the end, they are the ones who usually suffer.

Here Are Key Ingredients

As you work towards a successful career, remember "RIPE": R eliable - be reliable in many ways - just showing up for work everyday is not what I am referring to, be reliable in offering to do more, to present solutions, to help others I nitiative - take the initiative, do more and learn more than is expected , share your learning's, make suggestions for improvement, do not wait for someone to tell you what to do, just do it P ositive - have a positive attitude , this makes all the difference. You can teach anyone new technical skills but you cannot teach attitude, this is completely within your control, you decide the type of attitude you dlemonstrate E nthusiasm - your enthusiasm will rub off on others! Be the person who others come to for solutions, don't let others get you down. These personal attributes can readily assist you in a successful career.

What Role Does Luck Play?

Now, you also be thinking that luck has played a role in someone getting promoted over you. If you do, that luck you may refer to is luck that was created and initiated by the person all their own. This is not luck that saw them be in the right place when a job came open either; instead, this is a person who prepared to be promoted by doing whatever it took to advance their own expertise even if that meant that they would attend part-time courses or seminars and by paying for these without any assistance by their company. It is not a matter that one cannot be better at work and position themselves to get ahead. It is more a matter that most people, from my experience, expect that simply by showing up for work that they can get promoted, or even, worse, that they deserve it despite the fact they are willing to do no more than what is expected.

A Perfect Example
There was a young man who used to work for me who decided that his chosen profession was not working in my industry but as an actor. This was his passion

and his goal. He worked for me for only a short time and all the while was preparing for a whole new adventure. And an adventure that he was more than willing to do whatever he had to in order to make it his reality. He left my area, and I never heard too much about him until one day I was watching a new TV series and there he was in a lead role. The series went on for several years and just recently aired their last show.

The Messages Are Clear

Two key messages - The first being that you do not have a passion for what it is you currently do, find one that really excites you and go full steam ahead and do everything possible to get there. The second message is that you need to prepare for what it is you want to do even if this means that you need to do something else in the meantime to pay your bills Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/careerripe/index.html#4eZEZa0fpcGzzx3u.99 Do A Little
by Catherine Pulsifer

If everyone would only do just a little, imagine what a difference it would make in the world. Take recycling, for example. It is successful because a lot of people are each doing a little. If we all took the position that what we could do would be too little, we wouldn't be experiencing the progress we are today. Similarly, when you first begin a project, you may only have enough time to do a little. Over time, however, what may first appear to be small efforts will multiply and end up being significant! If inventors and scientists just gave up because they didn't have enough time, or didn't have all the answers, imagine all the conveniences, or advances in medicine, we would not have today! Keep in mind the wisdom of Edmund Burke the next time you think you can only do a little: "Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who does nothing because he could only do a little." And, remember the wisdom said by David DeNotaris: "I ask people if an elephant has ever bitten them. Most of the time people say no. But everyone has been bitten by a mosquito. It's the little things that get us." There have been many times in my life when I only had a little time to work on my goals. Writing my first book was one of those times. I worked full time, I had two children, there were not enough hours in a day. But each morning I would get up an hour before the children and work for one hour on my book. For those of you who have written a book you know that one-hour to work is not a lot of time. But doing this every day, week after week, I saw the book taking shape. If I had said I only have time to do a little therefore I won't do it, my book would not be published today. Here is another example that will serve to demonstrate what I mean by a little time used well is a sure way forward. A friend of mine had only graduated high school but soon realized that he was severely lacking in educational qualifications for any desirable position. He had been working since he graduated in the construction industry but was totally dissatisfied with his potential future

prospects. He realized that he no longer wanted to spend the rest of his life in construction that was not only physically demanding but also paid poorly. He also had married at an early age and already had one child so he knew it was going to be a real challenge to acquire additional education not only in terms of cost but also in terms of available time. The motivating factor though was his intense desire to change his future not only for himself but also for the sake of his family. The road to achieving a higher level of education, in this case as an architect, was long, hard, and filled with hurdles. Not only did he have to start part-time but also he had to continue for over seven years to acquire what he ultimately wanted. How did he do it? One step at a time using almost every spare moment he had to complete his course assignments and still maintaining a full-time job. This meant that he went to work each day, came home and spent an hour with his wife and child and then hit the books until it was time to go to bed. This also meant that there were no vacations, no weekend trips, or fancy evenings out. Every spare dime that was left over from paying bills and providing for his family went into a savings account to pay for the next course and all the books he needed per course

Do Not Wait For Desperate Times

by Catherine Pulsifer To use the wisdom of John F. Kennedy, "The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." What motivates you to change, to take action? Does taking action during the good times happen in your life or, do you only take action when you are forced to? Those who wait to take action until they find themselves in a desperate situation face more difficulties than they need to. They are also then under the stress of the challenge they are facing. One of the saddest examples is an employed person who has the opportunity to take course to improve his skills, but instead, does nothing until he finds he no longer has a job. Those who set their goals, work towards what they currently once only dreamed of achieving find success due to their hard work. They don't sit back and wait for others to create the future they want. They create the future by what they are doing today. Keep improving your skills, and education, and you will greatly improve your odds of success. Read the biographies of successful people and you will find they looked at life as a continuous learning experience, they would learn how to do things, they would ask for help. They didn't sit back and wait for others to do it for them. They took the initiative and did it themselves or found people who could help them. Some people think success is because others are lucky. To use the wisdom of Thomas Jefferson who once said, "I'm a great believer in luck and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it." Luck does not happen for any reason. The majority of times you will find hard work and action behind those that you think are lucky. Take action now, only if only baby steps. As the proverb says, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." Take that one step, then another. Don't wait for desperate times!

What Would You Change?

By Catherine Pulsifer

When talking with people about their life, or their job, or their current situation I always ask: "What one thing would you change about your life?" People always have an answer for what would make their life better. Before you read further, think about what one thing you could change in your life. The one thing that would make your life better. Okay, hold your thought. My next question to you is: "What are you doing to make that change come true?" So often people answer the first question with no problem. Everyone can think of the one thing that would make life better for them. But people are not so quick to answer the second question: "What are you doing to make that change come true." Sadly, most people take no action to change their current situation. I often use the saying: "May All Your Dreams Turn Into Goals" Take your dream, start taking action, and before you know it your dream will be a reality. It really works! I can speak from personal experience. I have had many dreams, which I turned into goals and now they are my reality. When I first started setting goals I never imagined that they would have such an impact on my life. It's awesome to have a dream, and then to see that dream come true. The dreams I only thought about, the ones I took no action on, well they are still dreams. But the ones that I took action on, they are now a reality. I have accomplished things in my life that I never realized I had the potential to achieve. YOU also have the potential!

Do Not Be Discouraged
Author: Catherine Pulsifer

When faced with failure, reflect on the wisdom in this Japanese proverb: "Fall seven times, stand up eight." As long as you keep getting up, you are not failing. Those who learn how to overcome failure become stronger. Let's face it we are all confronted with failure. The difference is how we deal with it. Some people use failure as an excuse to give up, to become bitter, or cynical. They no longer try, they take the easy way out by saying, "well I tried but it didn't work." They try one thing and they give up. Other people look at failure as an opportunity to revisit past decisions and to devise new strategies. We think the words said by Beverly Sills have wisdom in them, "You may be

disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don't try." Don't be one of those people who later on in life wonder what would have happened if they had done things differently. Or, one of those people who then see someone else succeed using their idea. When you look at why it failed and try and figure out what went wrong you will find yourself learning from the experience. And armed with new knowledge you can start again this time stronger. Thousands of successful people did not achieve success on their first try, but they were not discouraged. They picked themselves up and went back at it with an even stronger, single minded tenacity to achieve their goal. There are many examples of what some might consider failure. Many times we hear or read about the success of people, but what we do not hear is about how many times they started and failed, and started again. Do not be discouraged if your plans do not succeed the first time. No one learns to walk by taking only one step! Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/donotbediscouraged/index.html#vheJUvZLCQ tVIZp8.99 Thoughts are Like a Garden
By Catherine Pulsifer

When life seems overwhelming, are you able to look ahead and see light at the end of the tunnel? Sometimes, life's challenges are tough to deal with. You will succeed if you focus your thoughts on how to overcome the challenge. Negative thoughts are like weeds in a garden. Once a weed is allowed to flourish, the garden is quickly overtaken. But, if you weed the garden before the weeds spread, you will end up with a beautiful and bountiful garden. And. like gardens, you must work at removing weeds every day just like you must work everyday to keep motivated. Tending to life?s garden is not easy. There are always excuses that can be used to put off what should be done. And, just like a garden needs nourishment and watering so does one?s spirit. It needs to be nurtured daily and one way to help to do this is by reading inspirational words of wisdom. And, another is to reduce the number of negative influences in your life ? these are the people who do not support your growth, or who relish in seeing only the negatives or possible problems you will encounter along the way. Do not allow anyone else to tend to your garden - it is up to you and you alone to ensure that it grows and is always at the forefront of your thoughts. Make your garden a beautiful one and one that is envied by all those other garden owners who just sit around and hope someone else will come along to tend to their needs. You are the only one who can control the way you think. Make sure you nourish the positive thoughts, and weed out the negative ones!

Find more wisdom in these Positive Thinking Quotes: The World is what we think it is. If we can change our thoughts, we can change the world. H.M. Tomlinson There is a basic law that like attracts like. Negative thinking definitely attracts negative results. Conversely, if a person habitually thinks optimistically and hopefully, his positive thinkg sets in motion creative forces, and success instead of eluding him flows toward him. Norman Vincent Peale The mind is like a river; upon its waters thoughts float through in a constant procession every conscious moment. You stand on a bridge over it and can stop and turn back any thought that comes along. The art of contentment is to let no thought pass that is going to disturb you. Dr. Frank Crane

The Smoothest Way Is Full of Challenges

by Byron Pulsifer 2007

While the attitude that luck is the primary difference between success and failure would be a good excuse to easily accept the defeatist position in life, it is one that is untrue. Many, many successful people met what appeared to be insurmountable challenges on their way to achieve success. People such as Albert Einstein, Henry Ford, Thomas Jefferson, Yani, Thomas Jefferson, Walt Disney, the list goes on and on. Reflect on the attitudes of these people while reading their quotes: "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." Thomas Jefferson "Focused will is incredible. If you have a dream and you don't give up no matter what obstacles come up, then life's problems will fall away and you will get what you want. It happens. It works." Yanni "When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it." Henry Ford "Results! Why man, I have gotten a lot of results. I know of several thousand things that won't work." Thomas Edison "It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer." Albert Einstein

What each success story has in common is the obstacles faced and overcome by those who we now see as successful. Were they lucky? Hardly. What is often unknown, or conveniently forgotten, is how many failures these people endured before they reached their goal. The commonality among all these people is that they never gave up. For them, each new challenge was an opportunity to excel at life, to persevere in spite of at times seemingly overwhelming odds. "You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you." Walt Disney

The Fine Art of Complaining

Author: Byron Pulsifer, 2008

So, why is the fine art of complaining so prevalent? Well, the story is that it is easier to complain than to accept responsibility for what may be wrong in your life. If you accept responsibility for some of your woes, you may have to take action that changes events in your life. Now, why would you want to do that?

It Is Your Decision

The truth is this. You can change from negative to positive only if you choose to. No one forces you to be negative, and no one forces you to be positive. The choice is yours', and yours' alone. If you really want to change your life for the better, you need to accept the basic principle that it is up to you. You can control your thoughts, you can control your emotions, and you can control what and where you go in life.

Do Not Heed
Nay sayers and negative people are everywhere. And, you'll also find a host of socalled friends that will tell you that you can't do or have more than they do because this would burst their bubble of complaining. These so-called friends want you to fail so that they can validate their existence - an existence full of misdirection, negative thinking, and expecting everything for nothing. To begin the process to positive change, make a commitment to yourself that you will be more, have more, and do more.

Be Strong, Be Focused

Once you take responsibility for your own actions, your behaviors, your thoughts, you are beginning to take a positive step forward. Once you start, ban all negative thinkers from influencing you. Turn a deaf ear to those who would ridicule you for beginning a course that creates positives not negatives. Better yet, associate yourself with positive, encouraging, and helpful people. They do exist. I believe that the art of complaining is more about a level of insecurity than it is about a person who thinks that they have it all together. I have never met a complainer who has a positive attitude towards life. This lack of having a positive attitude means more in terms of their own hang-ups than about the issues they constantly complain about. However, if you are a complainer, bear in mind that all your complaining only brings you to a higher level of complaining until you are qualified for a doctorate of complaining. The art of complaining does not mean, however, that you will ever be able to get what you want in life by simply complaining. Complaining is one of the irritants that destroy really true friendships unless of course that friend is also feeling less than secure in their own life.

Move Forward

So, now that we have talked about all the less than desirable features of complaining, how do you change? The first thing to consider is whether or not you really want to change your life. You cannot change anything, absolutely nothing, unless you first make a decision to change. This change process takes time, takes perseverance and takes a coach that can help you change not only how you think but also how you use your given abilities to alter the course of your life.

Recognize The Right Path

So, let us talk for a minute about change. Change is not an easy road if you have been traveling down a totally different road all your life. The real point about change in being a complainer is that if it doesn't hurt bad enough, you will not change. What does this mean? It means that you will not want to change unless your life is so bad, so full of pain that you recognize that you must change to survive. I know this may not be the case you recognize right now but it may be sooner than you think. There is little room in life for complainers who refuse to do anything to recover, or to actually do something about all that they complain about. It is not a transition that needs to be accomplished all at once, but even a little change to make a change is important. Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/artofcomplaining/index.html#U0OBltkogUHjZ uYX.99

Attract Positives NOT Negatives

Author: Byron Pulsifer, 2008

Everyday, without fail, there are a host of negatives in the world around us. Some of these negatives are passed down by family and friends, and some are in every conversation you hear between co-workers, or those you just happen to hear at the coffee shop, or around the water cooler. Just Ask Yourself How many times have you engaged in negative thinking, negative conversations, or personal complaints? On the other hand, how many times have you heard positive conversations, conversations of gratitude expressing thankfulness for what we have, of what we can do, or the choice of options that are available to us? Don't Lose Sight

We are fortunate to live in a democracy where free choice to do, to have, to be what we desire is available. The sad situation, however, is that most people have lost sight of available options by falling prey to negative messages from those who choose NOT to make the most of countless opportunities. What is really interesting to learn is that you need to develop a mindset of "creativity" not "competitiveness". This concept was clearly explained in a book from 1910 by Wallace D. Wattles, called "Science of Getting Rich". Napoleon Hill also wrote about aspects of the power of the positive mind in his book, "Think and Grow Rich", first published in 1937. Moaners and Complainers Despite information available to the contrary, it would seem that a lot of people would rather complain and moan about what they don't have, can't do, or wish they could have or do without exercising even one act that could start to turn their lives into a positive. Sure, there are obstacles - sure there are challenges - no one ever said that you'd get everything you wanted for nothing. The real fact is this - you can do what you want, have more, be more, but you need to develop a vision, an outlook of possibilities not an age old path of seeing a problem in everything you view. Simple Truth By forming a thought or vision in your mind, you connect to a source of energy that can create what you're thinking about. If your thoughts are negative, you'll probably attract negative events into your life. You will see the bad, not the good. On The Other Hand You can attract positives by being positive. Just try a simple exercise like smiling and saying hello to everyone at work. When you smile, in all likelihood, you will receive a warm response in return. Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/attractpositives/index.html#3kxKxxUwZWT6C FrV.99

Beyond The Dream

Author: Byron Pulsifer

Have you ever had a dream? I'm not talking about a dream that we all experience while we sleep. I'm talking about a dream that shows a new career or pursuit. Something that you wished you had. Most people have these kinds of dreams and some people have the same one

over and over again sometimes consuming their every waking moment. Is there anything wrong with this kind of dream? Is This Daydreaming? Some people might suggest that to have a recurring dream that depicts a new reality is simply daydreaming where this dream only acts as a way to fill the void from a less than satisfying job and provides a necessary escape from their current reality making it somewhat bearable. The interesting and more significant point though, is that this dream may be what should be turned into a day-to-day reality that provides a more pleasing and fulfilling life. So, why not invest the energy wasted on dreaming by developing a plan that will move you closer and closer to what you really desire?

Extra-Mile The Speedometer of Life

Author: Byron Pulsifer 2007

There is no doubt, we all put miles on our life's speedometer. It is inevitable; we cannot avoid it. But, this inevitability begs a question: when is it better to put on extra miles?

Confused? Let me explain.

Whether we go to work daily, develop our own business, or enter into or develop relationships with others, there are times when it is either necessary, or just a good strategy to do more than is required, or go the extra mile to make a difference.

Take Your Work Environment For Example

Your employer requires that you do a certain amount of work, or finish a project based on a certain yardstick of time or performance. All too often, people only do what they have to and no more. Their attitude is one that portrays the notion that they don't owe anything to the company, or what is the company doing for me.

Change Your Attitude

When you change your attitude from "what are they doing for me?", to one of embracing "what can I do for the company", you move away from being selfcentered to become more value-added. You reflect the attitude of going the extra-mile. Consider, for a moment, that you reflect an on-going "go the extra-mile" attitude at work. Who do you think will be more likely to get a bonus? Who do you think would more likely be considered for a promotion? Who do you think would be one of the last people to be let go when downsizing, or rightsizing comes to visit?

Apply This To Your Life

The same notion applies to a great many aspects of life. Often, relationships will more likely flourish when each person goes the extra mile - whether we talk about the union of two people, or whether we talk about service clubs. Who would you rather be one who is known for going the extra mile to make a difference, or the one who does enough just to get by? Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/extramile/index.html#oRjGjUEcGLJVgoVG.99

Day Of Hope
Author: Byron Pulsifer

The day started out in a very relaxed way until the phone rang. It was my friend who had just lost his wife a week ago after she had suffered a cardiac arrest. We had attended a quiet gathering with him just a week ago at a local funeral home. He told us today that he would like us to come to a special memorial service to be held at the place where his wife had worked for many years. Apparently, there were a lot of people that wanted to pay their last respects to her and celebrate her life, her smile

and her friendship. These were all the people who were not able to attend the visitation at the funeral home because it had been for only family members and a few close friends. We did not hesitate to tell him we would be there and it was our hope that the memorial service would not cause him terrible emotional upheaval again. We arrived to find a growing crowd of people assembled in the auditorium and our friend waiting at the entrance. We entered together and were really surprised by the crowd that had gathered. They came from all departments and service areas.

Words of Jesse Jackson

"Hold your head high, stick your chest out. You can make it. It gets dark sometimes, but morning comes. Keep hope alive."

The Service Began

The clergy began by greeting everyone to a celebration of our friend's wife's life. And, it wasn't long before the tears were flowing steadily from many of the attendees. Our friend was sitting in front of us surrounded by close friends to his wife that she had worked with for many years. Our friend began to sob again so much so that we thought he would totally break down. But, even though . . .

Smiles Are Sunshine For All

by Byron Pulsifer 2007

Research has shown that smiles can be heard. When a person who is speaking on the phone is smiling, the person listening can actually sense it. Many telemarketing companies require that their telemarketers speak to their mirrored reflection so they can see their facial expressions. If they are not smiling, they can see themselves in the mirror as a reminder to smile as they speak.

Reasons Why Smiling Is Better Than

Frowning
- It takes less muscles to smile than it does to frown "It takes seventeen muscles to smile and forty-three to frown." Author Unknown - Smiling will relieve stress whereas frowning can actually increase stress "It takes a lot of work from the face to let out a smile, but just think what good smiling can bring to the most important muscle of the body... the heart." Author Unknown - People are attracted to those who smile. When was the last time you wanted to meet a person who was frowning? "Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles. What do we live for if not to make the world less difficult for each other?" George Eliot - Smile and your eyes lighten up. Frown and your eyes Finish darken. "Of all the things you wear, your The
Author: by Byron Pulsifer

How many years has it been since you graduated from high school, or college or university? For some of you, I bet it has been quite a few years.

And, for these people where it has been many years since graduation, you may be thinking that you do not have to learn anything new or take any more courses.

Life Has a Way of Telling You Different.

You may have found yourself cast off by your employer and when you go out to the marketplace to offer your services, you find that you are not able to find work. Why? Do you think that just maybe it has something to do with your qualifications?

Several Things that You Might Consider

One of these is to look into a different career altogether where you can take your qualifications and experience and transport these to another job. In this case, you are offering a series of experiences that relate to the new job you are seeking.

Setting An Example

By Catherine Pulsifer, 2011

Last week was an emotional week for many thousands of Canadians. Jack Layton, Leader of the Official Opposition Party in Canada, passed away. To use the wisdom of Albert Einstein, "Setting an example is not the main means of influencing another, it is the only means." I am not writing about politics, I am writing about a man who set an example for all of us. Mr. Layton influenced thousands of Canadians.

A True Example
He was an example of a man who truly had a Related: passion for his work. He did not just speak about the issues; he actually worked to have Motivational Rocks issues resolved. He took up causes that he believed in, causes that many others shied away from causes such as the homeless, AIDS, violence against women, the environment, to name only a few. His life was dedicated to helping others who perhaps could not help themselves. It didn't matter what your income was, what your nationality was, what your status was, if you needed help then Jack would help! He believed in equality for all and that no one should be left behind. He was a source of inspiration for thousands, and when he passed away on August 22nd, 2011, it shocked a nation. People of all political beliefs, of all ages were saddened. Never in this country's history has there been such an outpouring of emotion. And, the reason for this, is due to a . . .

Your Example Positive Thinking Quotes

Be Yourself
Author: Byron Pulsifer

Are you compelled to be somebody you're not. Do you live in a big house because you think it is required to fit the mold of others. Does your choice of furniture reflect what you think others would expect you to have.

Did You Ever

Have you ever stopped to think how much energy, or for that matter, how much you complicate your life, by pretending to be someone you're really not? Maybe this is partly a reflection of a portrayed lifestyle you see every day on the television, or those latest magazines depicting a glamorous lifestyle. Who are you trying to impress - you, or everyone else? Think how simple your life would be if you stopped for a moment and just learned to be yourself.

Karen's Story
Take one of my previous co-workers, Karen, for example. Karen spends most of her day worrying about what other people think about her. She buys furniture in a style that she thinks would impress her friends even though this furniture is very uncomfortable. Every time she goes out the door, she worries whether what she wears or how she looks is up to the standards of those people she knows that she just might meet at the neighbourhood store.

In Short, Who Cares

Be yourself, enjoy who you are. For example, if you want comfy furniture that really invites you to curl up and relax, then do it. After all, whom are you trying to impress with uncomfortable furniture? You're the one who has to live there. You're the one who should be comfortable in your own home. One thing I've come to realize is that it really doesn't matter what other people

may think. If they are that small minded, or if they want to impress whomever, let them. I for one don't care. I don't have to spend any energy or complicate my life by what others may think. Isn't it really a matter of the person - what's inside of you - who you really are as a person?

Stones of Life
Author: Byron Pulsifer, 2007

Have you ever seen or found a river stone that was perfectly smooth? Did the stone start out this way, or did it change over time? To most of us, the answer is obvious. Over time, the forces of the river current changed the river stone. And, like the river stone, forces in our lives are constant and never ending causing changes whether we like it or not. The important question for all of us though is how do we respond to change?

Past Is Not Present

Many of us, have to work to support ourselves, or our family. But, does change in the work environment, or changes in our lives go unnoticed, or is of little concern? Take our working environment in particular. No longer can we rely on past experience to gives us a safety net. No longer can we count on seniority to guarantee us a job. Nor, can we count on the company we work for either being bought out or going out of business entirely.

Are You Properly Prepared?

Let's be honest. You can resist change but it's going to happen anyway. Ask yourself, what are your chances of surviving if you continue to resist change? Change is hardly new to our society. Just look at your daily newspaper, or T.V. newscast, or Internet stories. Change is everywhere. It has been a constant companion for as long as people have roamed the earth. The most important and significant aspect about change is that it has accelerated over the last couple of decades due to technological advances, and a more global society.

Change Your Thinking

In order to benefit from change we need to focus more on the advantages rather

than the negative. Remember, change is going to happen anyway; wouldn't it be better to be part of it rather than a fallout statistic because of it. If you find yourself resisting a new process, a new strategy, a new way of doing business, a good question to ask yourself is why the change is necessary. It is easier to adapt to change when you understand the reasons the change is required.

Take Charge Today

Taking the inevitability of change one step further, it is vitally important to keep expanding your knowledge, and to upgrade your skills, or learn a new skill. Don't wait for someone else to suggest upgrading, or enrolling in a specialized course. If you wait, you may never get the opportunity because others may have already completed what you should have done. Sometimes, it will make the difference from keeping your job to having no job at all. Change, adapt, and continue to learn. Change will affect you one way or the other, just like change happened to the river-stone. Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/riverstone/index.html#dd0qXGATZihTcYov.99

Ladder of Achievement
Author: Byron Pulsifer, 2011

There are many people in the world who have succeeded in climbing the ladder of achievement. Some of these people have persevered throughout their career having met what appeared insurmountable obstacles yet overcame these challenges to keep moving forward. In one situation similar to surmounting obstacles, was a woman I know who had a high school education and started in a company at the bottom of the totem pole. She was a hard worker and didn't want to always be kept at the bottom. She wanted more. This is her story. Rather than just call her a woman I know and to protect her identity, let me give her a fictitious name - I'll call her Sally. I will give you the end of the story first so as not to keep you wondering what eventually happened to Sally. In her final days in this company, she became a well respected executive dedicated to always going that extra mile and then some, true to her values of helping any one who wanted to learn more do so, and assisting anyone who wanted to achieve more in their life if they were willing to work hard. She rose from the bottom to the level she only once dreamed about. How did she do it?

Sally had a burning desire to succeed, to learn, to rise above petty jealousies, or office politics. She decided early on that her high school education wasn't going to be enough to help propel her to where she wanted to be so she took night courses while at the same time raising a family. Although it took her nine years to complete her advanced designation, she never lost sight of her end goal; a goal that wasn't easy for her with all her other responsibilities and demands. As she started to be recognized as a doer, as someone who got the job done despite obstacles or issues, she was offered a promotion. But, this promotion meant she had to uproot her family and move over one thousand miles to a new city where she didn't know a soul. But, she did it knowing that achievement isn't always an easy road, nor a road traveled without sacrifice, and requiring a decision to move out of her comfort zone. Then, Sally met another obstacle or challenge. She was required to report to another individual who had no experience in her field but was brought into the position because she had a university education. So, what did Sally do? Did she give up; did she refuse to help her new boss learn the job; did she ask for a transfer to another unit; or, did she just up and quit? No, instead she went out of her way to help her new boss learn the business. Her decision paid off in the end because she was promoted to another area that required a leader, a person who could change an operating unit and make it more profitable. Her diligence, her dedication and her persistence started to be more and more recognized as senior executives watched her progress closely. Sally was able to not only turn a sizeable profit but was able to do so by earning her employees loyalty and dedication. After her latest assignment, Sally saw one challenging position after another being sent her way. Each new assignment meant more and more diligence and long hours. There was risk in every position; there were staff issues, work performance issues, politics, and profit issues to deal with. It didn't matter to Sally how hard the job was, or how many obstacles or issues, or how much effort it took - she persevered, progressed and moved forward on her ladder of achievement. So, after over twenty years of dedicated service, where is Sally today? Sally chose to leave the company where she had started at the bottom and rise to the top because she was ready for a new challenge; she was ready for a new ladder of achievement. And, for those who know her even now will recognize that burning desire to succeed in her own business where obstacles and challenges are still the order of the day, but where these challenges are overshadowed by success. Sally demonstrates some sound principles on the ladder of achievement that all of us should remember. You can wish all you want to achieve but wishing does not accomplish anything. Persistence, a clear focus, the willingness to take risks, the undying quest to learn, the unselfishness attitude to help others succeed, the

willingness to work hard and then some, and the ability to keep going no matter what is thrown your way. The road to achievement means the ability to climb mountains, to pass over potholes along the way, and a relentless belief in yourself that you can do it Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/ladder-ofachievement/index.html#o8GwRRkBoCeFG4RQ.99

A Thought About The Essential Qualities

Author: Byron Pulsifer 2011

Most Of Us Think That We Are Fine Human Beings

And, for the most part this is true. But, maybe we should sit back for a few minutes and look deeply into our own inner spaces. Think about how a normal day progresses for you from the time you wake up to the time when you go to sleep.

Think About This

Here are some behaviours, attitudes and thoughts to reflect on as you sit quietly:
1) As you arrive at your place of work, do you warmly and genuinely greet colleagues, or are you to wrapped up in your own world that you ignore them? 2) Do you normally smile at everyone you meet during your day, or are you prone to frown? 3) Are you known as an open and receptive person who welcomes others ideas or opinions, or do you have a tendency to immediately discount other people's opinions when they do not match your own thinking? 4) Does your usual behaviour include praising others for their work, or their contributions, or are you apt to criticize first by finding fault? 5) Are you able to appreciate that everyone has feelings no matter who they are or where they fit into the social fabric of society, or do you shun or avoid some people because they do not fit within your social circle? 6) You may be a busy person but do you volunteer or help others outside of your work, or do you prefer to let others give of their time and energy to assist others in need? 7) Are you really interested in other people and who they are and what they are like, or are you more likely to speak or associate only with people that feed your ego? 8) Are you known as a friendly person whom is easy to speak with, or are you known as the type of person who is difficult to approach or is full of themselves, rude, or arrogant?

There Are More Qualities That Can Be Listed

But I think you get the main point. You may not feel you possess any of the negative aspects spoken of but others may see you in a different light.

The Main Thing To Consider Is

How you want to be known as the years roll by. It is comforting to know as your life winds to an end that you have been a wholesome, valuable, giving, caring, and influential person to those you meet along life's pathway Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/tenhuman/index.html#Fz77h6KgBvAEI9cz.99

Showing Common Sense

By Catherine Pulsifer, 2011

I have been in situations where someone who is more educated, or who is in a more senior position, made a decision I disagreed with. My common sense told me that it was the wrong decision. But, I thought they must know what they were doing because they were more educated, and in a more senior position. So I didn't say or suggest anything. But once the decision was made, and the action was taken, I realized that I should have spoken up and expressed my opinion; as the decision was not a good one. Far too many of us blindly accept a decision of a superior without challenging the assumptions upon which the decision is based. Sometimes we lack the confidence to speak up. And, sometimes we do not want to upset our boss or co-worker. I also have been in many situations where my own decisions were not the right ones. After the fact, a co-worker would say to me, "I knew that was not the right thing to do." It always amazed me that they did not speak up and voice their opinion. There have been many times once something is pointed out that I have rethought my action. And, of course, there were times when I wished I had listened and didn't. But, that is how we learn. On the other hand, showing the confidence to challenge decisions based on our own common sense can lead to more thoughtful decisions. Don't be afraid to speak up, voice your thoughts in a constructive and positive manner. Life is a series of challenges and different interpretations. Not everything we say is necessarily interpreted correctly and it is up to you to extend an open invitation to those around you to speak freely in order to clarify or question. If you want to be respected, to be seen as a person that is open and available to all, commonsense applied to everything, then be honest, and seek open communication with everyone not just a few selected people. Consider the wisdom of Josh Billings who once said, "Common sense is instinct and enough of it is genius."

Why Are Some People More Successful Than Others

by Catherine Pulsifer Why is it that some people move further and faster in their careers than others? What is different about today's working environments compared to that of our parents? Have you ever had any of the following thoughts: - "I have the appropriate educational background; why didn't I get the position?" - "I have all the skills and experience the company is looking for; why wasn't I given the promotion?" - "I have been here longer than the successful candidate; why did they get the job?" - "I go to work everyday, never calling in sick; why don't I get recognized for my contributions?" - "What do I have to do to be successful today?" - "I work just as hard as everybody else; why didn't I get as big a raise?" These thoughts are common to a lot of people. So what makes the difference? I see three qualities that explain the difference between an average person, and a person who stands out above the crowd. If you consistently demonstrate these three qualities, you will stand apart from the rest. On the other hand, I could make a list of hundreds of qualities and skills that you should possess to be successful today. Instead, if you demonstrate these three qualities, all the other qualities and skills you require will follow naturally. We all have the ability to acquire these three qualities; you don't have to be a genius to master them. What you do need, however, is a willingness to truthfully examine your behaviors, have a desire to improve, and take the appropriate action. It is also helpful to obtain honest feedback from a supportive co-worker. The feedback you need from your colleague is how they see you compared to how you see yourself. Putting these three qualities into practice is not as easy as it sounds. It is human nature to fall back to what is familiar and comfortable to us. You really have to work to develop these qualities, and, in some cases, you will need to break old habits. Breaking old habits is easy to say, but much harder to do. "Some habits are much harder to break than others but you must first have a new habit in your mind before you can even try to attempt to destroy the old." Byron Pulsifer, The Who In I And, don't expect immediate recognition after you have made positive changes. There has to be consistency in your behavior and performance over time. Don't think that by reading a book, and changing some of your behaviors, that tomorrow will bring you recognition, or a promotion. Often people get discouraged or disillusioned by expecting everyone to instantly see the positive changes they have made. Allow time to work to your advantage. The three key qualities that I have been referring to are: 1. Having a Positive Attitude 2. Being Able to Adapt to Change 3. And, Loving What You Do

Adversity An Advantage
Author: Catherine Pulsifer

To repeat the wisdom of William Hazlitt, "Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity a greater." We can always learn more from challenging times than from good times. When things are going great we sometimes become a bit more relaxed. But when things are not going so great we try and learn what is causing the challenges. We have this experience all the time in our business, and with the websites. When they are doing well, we do not learn as much. But, let me tell you, when they drop in rankings or have issues, we are researching and reading to try and correct the problem. Adversity is the catalyst that forces us to stretch. It propels us to find solutions to problems we never would have considered if not for adversity. Again, using the websites as an example, when faced with adversity, we look at them in an entirely new light. We try things that previously we would not have even attempted. This is true of any profession or situation. In trying to resolve our issue, we stretch ourselves. Adversity can provide the fuel that sparks new strengths we didn't realize we had within us. We can sometimes amaze ourselves if we don't get hung up in feeling sorry for our self. If we have the right attitude and look at adversity as an opportunity to discover new things, we will find strength that we did not realize that we even had. How we cope with adversity is also a learning experience. There are times in all of our lives where we have handled adversity well, and times where we have not. Keeping a positive attitude when faced with adversity is one of the secrets of success. Rather than give up or be discouraged, if we keep a positive outlook we will find solutions to our issues will come much more easily. Next time adversity strikes, remember, you can use it to your advantage by learning from it. Let adversity be a teacher to you.

All Is Going Well?

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

The wisdom from George S. Patton contain thoughts to inspire "I don't measure a man's success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom." The true test in life does not occur when all is going well. The true test takes place when we are faced with challenges. Some people have a positive attitude towards life only when all is well. However, when the going gets tough, their attitude changes instantly, and they become very negative or are consumed with self pity. There are many examples of people who have hit bottom. Christopher Reeve is an example of someone who had faced challenges. He was a person who was very successful and active, however, he had a riding accident that left him paralyzed. He could have felt sorry for himself. Instead, since the accident he has raised money for research on paralysis, directed a film, and has written his autobiography Still Me. I recently talked with someone who was having difficulties; part of the problem was they were sitting around just feeling sorry for themselves. My advice to them was "do something productive" rather than sit and think! Your problems seem larger when all you do is sit around and think about them. When you are active and doing something productive you will find that your mind is no longer focusing on your issues and in fact you may find yourself feeling better. Be conscious of your attitude. Work extra hard at keeping your attitude positive in all kinds of weather, through all the challenges of life. I know this is very easy to say and at times, can be difficult to put into practice. But you almost have to force your mind to stay focused on the positive things in your life. I will leave you with wisdom from Norman Vincent Peale, "Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude towards it, for that determines our success or our failure."

Rebuild Those Plans

by Catherine Pulsifer

Byron and I started our first business full of enthusiasm and energy. The business was a seminar business with a focus on self-development. We loved the concept of helping others be more and achieve more. The business fit our backgrounds and we truly loved it. The opportunity to run our own business, a business that helps others achieve their goals was what we once only dreamed of doing. Now that dream was a reality. We invested heavily, both financially, our time, and energy. After a few months it become obvious we could not compete with the large seminar companies and we had to close the business. At the time if was very disappointing, especially since we both loved the business. It was discouraging, but we learned a lot from that business. But from the failure of that business we also saw opportunities. We moved forward with revised plans to achieve our goals. Today we are well on our way to achieving our goals. We did not let the failure of one business defeat us! We had a few family members question why we would risk our money and our time again when we already started a business and failed at it. We explained to them that many people who are successful first fail, but they don't let failure stop them. They move on with new knowledge and a better understanding. If you read the biographies of successful people you will find that this happens many times. Their first business failed and sometimes their second business also failed, but they had a dream, they never gave up. So, what are these principles that take failure and keep going forward? One of these principles is a firm belief that nothing ever attempted is nothing ever gained. The interesting notion here is that one would rather fail trying than fail never trying. It simply means that to live is to risk and nothing risked will ever come. Another principle is that it takes courage to fail but is also takes courage before success. It is a matter of attempting with passion and not with a view that one might fail. Principle three says that one cannot always control the outcome of any venture but one can always control how one deals with failure. Part of the success formula is the way one deals with failure. If you let failure dominate your thinking, you have already lost but if you let failure teach you valuable lessons then you have already won. Each one of these principles is the etching on the wall that is always there to guide you, to pick you up, and to propel you even further the next attempt. No one is ever assured of success but everyone is assured of not acquiring success if there is no risk. Every life has an element of risk but those who never step out of their comfort zone ever quite understand that they are also taking a risk. There are no guarantees in life and it is assured that those who do not know how to handle adversity, or risk or failure will be the first ones to suffer a devastating defeat. Og Mandino's quote below truly summarizes our experiences:

"There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time."

Honesty A Core Value

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

One of the most basic core values is honesty. W. Clement Stone gave us an example of honesty in the wisdom when he said, "Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity."

An Example
I saw honesty in action when I was at a checkout counter in a Wal-Mart store. The line ups were long and we all patiently waited. There was a teenage girl ahead of me. She paid for her items and left. As the cashier was ringing in my items the teenage girl who had been ahead of me in the line, came back and gave the cashier $5.00 because the cashier had given the teenager too much change. The cashier was shocked that the teenager returned it. She thanked the teenager for her honesty. Once the teenager left, the cashier said to me, "That is a rare occurrence." The teenage demonstrated the meaning in the quote by Spencer Johnson, "Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people."

Another Example
This time it involved an individual who left a firm that engaged in questionable practices. He was selling advertising space, however, the magazine was not being published on a regular basis. But he was expected to sell the advertising as if the magazine was published weekly. Although, he needed the money to support his family, he was unwilling to work for a firm that had questionable practices so he resigned. . Edward R. Murrow once said, "To be persuasive we must be believable; to be believable we must be credible; credible we must be truthful." The individual could not sell something he did not believe in because he knew the truth about the publication of the magazine.

Choices We Make

In both of these examples, the people could have chosen a different action, however there own values allowed them to make a choice that they could be proud of! And in life, it is all about choices we make. And how the direction of our lives comes down to the choices we choose. Honesty is not only doing the right thing, it is living with yourself with the choices you make. Read more at

http://www.wow4u.com/honestycv/index.html#MKvjs4TEIWqWCEj2.9 9

Inferior Without Consent

Author: Catherine Pulsifer You are responsible for every feeling you have. If you feel inferior to someone else, it is because of your own beliefs. The wisdom said by Eleanor Roosevelt are words we feel that we all need to remember. "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." How you react to other people's thoughts of you and what you are doing is your personal choice. To use the wisdom of Les Brown, "Other people's opinion of you does not have to become your reality." It is your decision, and yours alone, to determine the importance you give to any situation and to any person. You can read all kinds of stories where people stuck to their beliefs even when they were told they would fail. One of these stories is that of F.W. Woolworth. He was a store clerk who thought his boss should have a 10 cent sale to reduce his stock. His boss rejected the idea. The clerk did not allow his boss to make him feel inferior. Instead, he took his idea and put it into practice by opening his own store - "F. W. Woolworth Store". He then went on to open a chain of successful stores. Mark Twain received many rejection slips before his books were published. Today those same books that were originally rejected are classic books. A good example of Mark Twain's philosophy on life are found in the words of wisdom he once said: "Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too can become great." A more recent example is that of Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart. He is quoted as saying, "I had to pick myself up and get on with it, do it all over again, only even better this time." If he had given up at his first attempt we would never know the Wal-Mart of today. Yanni also said it well, "I believed that anything was possible, or at least because I didn't put together everyone else's 'facts' and believe that winning was impossible." Yanni who is now a famous musician started out with nothing, changed his direction, faced his share of challenges but he never gave up his belief in that he could make the music that was within him. Other people's opinions are not going to determine your success. What will be the deciding factor is your belief in you - your confidence, your determination and your perseverance. In summary, believe in yourself and don't give up when someone else doesn't believe in your goals!

What Can You Do

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

"Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy The philosophy in John F. Kennedy's qoute can be used in all areas of your life. In your personal life, rather than expecting people to do something for you, ask yourself what can you do for them. You will find doing for others often comes back to you. There is an old saying that summarizes this thought, "What you give you get." In your professional life, rather than expecting your employer to do something for you, ask yourself what you can do for your employer. People who have this type of attitude usually end up being promoted and recognized. You will double your success in all areas of life by asking yourself what you can do for others. I truly believe that when you do something good, it comes back to you in many positive ways! Find wisdom in these words: "He stands erect by bending over the fallen. He rises by lifting others." Robert G. Ingersoll "What goes around, comes around!" Author Unknown "In helping others, we shall help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes back to us." Flora Edwards "The more I help others to succeed, the more I succeed." Ray Kroc "We are prone to judge success by the index of our salaries or the size of our automobile rather than by the quality of our service and relationship to humanity." Martin Luther King, Jr. "Look up and not down. Look forward and not back. Look out and not in, and

lend a hand." Edward Everett Hale Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/whatcanyoudo/index.html#EfbZ0BVCtcwWZD 7K.99 Enthusiasm a Key to Success
By Catherine Pulsifer

If you approach any task without enthusiasm, the task will be laborious. You will find yourself watching the clock waiting for the day to be over. But, with enthusiasm, any task becomes so much easier, you will find yourself wanting to finish the task not finish the day. Enthusiasm is contagious. When you work with enthusiastic people, you can't help but be enthusiastic yourself. Enthusiasm spreads like wild fire. Think of people you have worked with. Usually, those who show enthusiasm are fun to work with. And, those who have little enthusiasm usually bring you down. This is true not just at work but also in your personal life. There are a lot of attitudes among workers that can lead to a better workplace and these can be as simple as respect for others, laughter, understanding, and compromise. But, enthusiasm is one of the biggest factors when linked with all the others previously mentioned. As you might understand, enthusiasm by itself can only do so much but when enthusiasm is also coupled with respect for others, or the ability to compromise in the workplace, mountains can be moved. Enthusiasm isnt just about work either. Enthusiasm for everything you do will not only put you ahead in dealing with whatever comes your way, but you are also showing yourself to be a model of what constitutes a person of value, a person of merit, and a person to emulate. The question for some people is how do I actually show enthusiasm, and how does this translate to model a behavior for others to follow? To show enthusiasm means that you openly do what others may be reluctant to do. You take on any task with a positive attitude. For example, if you are faced with a problem, you do not start talking about the problem as if it is something that stops you dead in your tracks. Instead, you talk about the problem only as a beginning to find a solution. The problem is only seen as a starting point to move forward and not as a place to stay stuck and complain, or feel defeated. The next action in resolving the issue is to engage everyone involved that the problem affects. This means that you ask for assistance in finding a solution where you sate clearly that no possible solution is judged or ignored. In other words, your enthusiasm to resolve the issue is the main focus of the conversation. Once you have everyone involved in finding a solution, the next step is to get everyones input into agreeing what one solution is the best. It is this demonstration of leading others forward that demonstrates your enthusiasm for the positive and not the negative. Remember this: enthusiasm for a positive solution is the hallmark of a positive person, whereas a person who only sees the problem is a sign of a pessimist. I have a post-card on my desk taken from "Life's Little Instruction Book" that says: "Be the most enthusiastic and positive person you know!" When I am having a difficult day, I read that card, and it encourages me to change my outlook. To refocus my thinking to a more positive attitude. Much has been written about enthusiasm, consider the wisdom of Samuel Smiles, "Enthusiasm...the sustaining power of all great action."

If you have enthusiasm you will find challenges you may be facing will be easier because of your attitude. You will find a solution. And consider the wisdom of Ralph Waldo Emerson who said, "Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." Looking at successful people we can see these words are true. Look at great inventions or works of art for example, the really great ones had an person who was excited and enthused about their work. And Vince Lombardi whose words may make you smile, but there is true wisdom in them, "If you are not fired with enthusiasm, you will be fired with enthusiasm." Those who come to work full of energy and enthusiasm are usually the ones who are kept on. And the reason for this is that they are the ones who will take the initiative, they willingly help out when needed, and they contribute more than others. How enthusiastic are you?

Credit and Action

Author: Catherine Pulsifer 2011

Have you ever applied for credit only to be turned down? It is a frustrating experience to say the least. I have a friend who was in this situation. She had a steady 9-5 job and she felt like she was boxed in with no way to increase her income. She had a family so she did not want to take a second job. She could see no way to increase her earnings as she worked for the government and they were on a job freeze and a wage freeze. She wanted to get ahead but felt there was no way. I offered to teach her how to do websites. She could work on them at home after her son went to bed. It seemed like a great way for her to make some extra money. I explained to her about how the websites are like any other business and they require time to develop. You do not just set them up and start making money. "Yes, yes," she said. She was so excited to get started. I spent a few days with her showing her how to do it and we had a website built. The secret to building a website is to add new content every week. For the first few weeks, content was added. But then as the weeks went on and no money was being made, no work was done. She then told me it was not working for her. I tried to explain she needed to continue each week and the business would start growing. But really she did not want to put in the effort and work on her business every week. Many people are in the same boat - they complain, they receive an opportunity, but they don't want to work at it. They would prefer to sit and watch tv or sleep rather than put in effort to build something that could assist in improving the situation they are in. There is no such thing as free money or fast money just like there is no such thing as free credit. You must work at it. I am always reminded of the wisdom said by Thomas Edison, "Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." If only she had stuck with it

for a couple more months, she probably would have seen success. Now she is back in the same position, not enough money, she can't get credit, and she is complaining. Many people complain yet they don't want to take action. If you develop a goal, set an action plan and take action, you are closer to success than most. Talk is easy, writing a plan is easy, but taking action day after day is not easy. Sometimes it is easier to give up than to keep taking action. As W. Clement Stone once said, "I think there is something, more important than believing: Action! The world is full of dreamers, there aren't enough who will move ahead and begin to take concrete steps to actualize their vision." My hopes in sharing this story are to encourage you not to give up easily, take action and persevere! Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/credit/index.html#fRXjysg3LsUQiVT1.99

Seven Gifts To Give To A Friend

Author: Catherine Pulsifer, 2007

The month of March is a month that has many birthdays for my family and friends. What gifts would I get? As I was reading some quotes, I found myself wishing I could give these gifts that I cannot buy. The seven gifts I would love to give to my family and friends:

Love For Many

The Gift of Love - May you find love in your family and your friends. And may you share the love you have to give. When you share your love, it comes back to you in many forms. Love is a special gift that you can give over and over again and is completely within your power. "Love is a fruit in season at all times, and within the reach of every hand." Mother Teresa

Laughter Is The Fruit Of Health

The Gift of Laughter - May laughter fill your home, relieve your stress, and strengthen your friendships. Do not let a day go buy without laughing; it is good for your health. Laughter is infectious and the more you laugh, the more other people will join in with you.

"Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects." Arnold Glasow

Do Not Squander

The Gift of Living Each Day to The Fullest - Every day is a gift, and may you use this gift by living life to the fullest. You will never have this day again. What will you do with it? It is a day that you can squander, or it is a day that will be marked as unique. You have within you the ability to make each day worthy of note; a day that will form a significant contribution in your best selling book of living. "Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. And today? Today is a gift. That's why we call it the present." Babatunde Olatunji Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/7gifts/index.html#PyAgKyj1PLPoIxz7.99

We Never Seem to Have Enough Time

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

Quite frankly, I don't think "time" is the problem.

The Real Problem

The real problem is the number of activities or tasks that we take on. A sign of our time is that we forget how to say "no", and take on far too many things. Our time is like jam, the more you try to spread it, the thinner it gets. We need to be realistic about the amount of time we have available. We need to maintain a proper balance in our life by allocating the time we have. There are occasions where saying no is the best time management practice there is. We need to determine what activities best utilize our time in order to achieve the results we desire in all areas of our life!

Strategies
So, what strategies can you utilize to take advantage of the time you do have since, in fact, we all have the same number of minutes in a day? Here are a couple of suggestions to consider: If you want to learn a new skill, or develop a mind skill for example, acquire CD disks and play them in your car on the way to and from work. This will use your time effectively saving you from having to dedicate other valuable time.

 Put down that remote TV controller and spend the time normally taken watching TV to a task, hobby, or project instead. If you are a manager or executive, look at opportunities to delegate some of your work to others. This is especially a good strategy for those types of people who try to do everything themselves but end up with little time if any to do more important futuristic tasks or develop new business strategies Get up earlier in the day to work on a project that you want to work on - a project just for you that you enjoy or want to do. If you spend time working on your lawn, cutting, pruning bushes etc., and you find this takes away from time you would rather devote to other things more exciting or rewarding, then consider hiring someone to do this for you.

Summary
Don't take time for granted. Take a long hard look about how you spend your time. Think about spending your time in the same manner that you think about spending your money. You don't throw money away, so don't throw your time away! Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/wenever/index.html#corIolPg6FZefx0F.99

Friendship is Not a Product

Author: Catherine Pulsifer

To be a true friend means being there not when it is convenient to you but being there for your friend. To be a friend means that you are willing to give yourself not only through the good times, but also during the bad times. There is a Turkish Proverb that descrbes friendship well: "A wise man remembers his friends at all times; a fool, only when he has need of them."

Encourage More

To be a friend means encouraging the strengths in others and accepting their weaknesses; in other words, accepting them for who they are. A friend encourages us when we doubt ourselves. They can sometimes see what we can not. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "A true friend is somebody who can make us do what we can." Many people you meet throughout your work or though social activities may at first appear to be those that would be a good friend. You enjoy their company and seem to have many things in common. However, the real test comes when you really need them. Those that can respond to you without hesitation, or come to you despite the fact that they are really busy with their own lives are the ones that will stand out.

Not Just Someone You Know

Too many people feel that a friend is simply someone you go out with for fun and enjoyment, a party, a tea, a movie, or a sports event. This is not a true friend unless they have demonstrated the characteristics that have been described before. Others, who call themselves friends without really showing it are more like good acquaintances - do not confuse the two. Recent events, that concern a friend, bring these points to the forefront. This is a person who beat the odds with severe drug abuse and remained clean for over fourteen years. But, after being married for nine years, he lost his wife who suffered a major heart attack. He fell to pieces; he was unable to cope with the loss and unfortunately, returned to drug use. What he justified had all the hallmarks of those famous excuses that are everywhere when people are unable to cope. Now, do you just abandon him and let him fall to the bitter levels of drub use, or do you try and help him?

A Really Big Need

There was no question that I would not forsake or abandon him now; he had made it before and there was no reason he couldn't do it again. I do not profess to be a counselor, but I still constantly reinforce what he needs to do and do what I can by way of encouragement to once again become clean. This is a sad situation but a true friend helps even when times are tough and that is when a person in need really requires all those attitudes and characteristics of a friend and not just a person who is there in the good times.

Not Always Easy

Friends are people you can count on to lend a hand, help by simply sitting and providing a empathetic or sympathetic ear, who demonstrate through both action and words that they are around for the long haul. Life will always provide challenges and it is of no concern, except to friends, that these challenges may require a level of support. This support isn't about giving to receive anything; it is about caring, kindness and concern that is based in the genuineness of the person called a friend. In the end, to be a friend means giving freely and not expecting anything in return. What is your definition of a friend? Do you live up to your own definition with your friends? Read more at http://www.wow4u.com/product/index.html#YPtKM1XrduHVJ1Kd.99

Positive Inspirational Note

Author: Catherine Pulsifer The most positive inspirational note I ever received was from a good friend who has been a mentor, a supporter, and an inspiration to me. This friend has had some very challenging issues in their life, but they always look at the positive side of every situation. No matter what the issue they are able to find the good in it. After years of working with many set backs, they continued to persevere and they have achieved success. The message that they sent me inspired and motivated me. What they did was write a poem to me to encourage me not to give up, to continue.. What was neat about this note is that they took positive motivational quotes and put it in a letter to me. Here is the positive inspirational note:
Persistence prevails when all else fails. Author Unknown Never, never, never give up. Winston Churchill How long should you try? Until. Jim Rohn A jug fills drop by drop. Buddha Set your goals high, and don't stop till you get there. Bo Jackson Choosing a goal and sticking to it changes everything. Scott Reed Goals determine what you're going to be. Julius Erving Whoever wants to reach a distant goal must take small steps. Helmut Schmidt There are always flowers for those who want to see them." Henri Matisse Look at the sunny side of everything. Christian D. Larsen Pessimism leads to weakness, optimism to power. William James Positive things happen to positive people. Sarah Beeny Don't be afraid to go out on a limb. That's where the fruit is. H. Jackson Browne Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. John Wooden Men are born to succeed, not fail. Henry David Thoreau Life is not the wick or the candle - it is the burning. Author Unknown

There are many issues that we all face through life and these issues can cause any of us to feel down or less than enthusiastic to keep moving. Sometimes, we get to the point where we struggle just to keep our heads above water. In these situations, we could use a little assistance. This assistance doesnt have to be major either; sometimes it is just a matter of a good friend sitting down and discussing what the issues are and then working with you to see what avenues there are to resolve these issues. Along the way, there are other things that you can do for yourself and part of this is to read and use motivational and inspirational quotes as a mainstay in your daily life. The quotes you read above, for example, are but a very few of the thousands of quotations that give each of us a little

boost. They provide for more than just reading when you actually start to take their message and adopt it into your life sort of like what some companies do when they talk about best practices. This means that each day you start off by reading just one inspirational quote and think about what the message is. For example, lets say the quote talks about ignoring petty issues and focus on what is really important. This means that all those little annoyances you come across through the day have no space within your own life for they do not contribute to what you need to be doing or thinking. Instead, this means that you focus on important issues like getting your own job done and done well, or, it means that your ability to help others through a problem is more important than others being jealous of your abilities. My hope in sharing this note with you is that it will inspire and motivate you to be all that you can be; that even when you face challenges to persevere; to encourage you to set your goals and stay focused on achieving them; and a reminder to realize that you are born to succeed. And, most importantly as you work to achieve your goals enjoy life!

Change Yourself
Author: Catherine Pulsifer, 1998

How many times have we attempt the impossible and tried to change other people - but attempting this is a waste of time! I can't tell you how many times I have tried to change other people and I have failed. There was one person in particular with whom I am very close; this person was not happy with their life, they were bored and lonely. For years I tried to change them, to help them lead a more productive life. Guess what, it didn't work. I just ended up being frustrated, until I realized that I couldn't change them until they changed themselves. As much as we want to, we all need to understand you truly cannot change other people. Think of a time when you tried to change a personal habit. As we have absolute control over how we think, you would assume changing a habit is easy. As we all know, it is not. Stop and consider how difficult it is for us to try and change other people when we have no control over their thoughts. To draw on the wisdom in an old saying, "You cannot change other people, you can only change yourself." If you want others to change, then you must change. Whether it is the behaviour of a child, a boss, a co-worker, a friend, or a spouse you are the one who must change. You can change the way you express your feelings towards the behaviour. Or, you can change your reaction to the behaviour. In some cases, you may have to change by accepting the behaviour. The point is this: You have control over you and that is the only person you can change. When you realize this you will save yourself a lot of frustration. Remember: you can change YOU and only YOU. "Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself." Leo Tolstoy