A very powerful act one can do in order to attract success and create an abundant life is to realize and acknowledge “the power of giving”, by way of giving unconditionally. It is a tremendously intense force magnetizing in you and your life; it will instantaneously take place at the mental, physical and spiritual platform of existence.
The universal laws that are in control over “giving and receiving” are spiritual as well as it is scientific.
Spiritual, that of whatever one will sow so those will he reap. Scientific, that of Isaac Newton’s motion theory which affirms that for each action there will always be an equal or opposite response or reaction. Meaning to say, when these laws will be implemented into one’s daily life, one attracts and creates the abundance or success which he/she desires.
Most individuals often associate giving, as about offering money. Although donating in terms of money comprises a great component, always know that the meaning of giving extends beyond money. When one thinks of giving in monetary terms, then one falls to the sentiment of scarcity, with the thought of what he has to give. The very act of sharing challenges directly one’s crooked beliefs and perceptions about inadequacy.
Giving is a power which stems from a very selfless act, that of simply giving from the heart. Wherein the act is not at all connected to any special occasion, such as Christmas, a birthday or any holiday celebration, rather it is “anytime”, primarily for one reason that is wanting to share what it is that you have, showing your gratitude and showing how you actually care. There must be no other reason behind it. Keep in mind that you do not give because you expect nothing in return.
Giving from your heart signals positive reactions to the universe, ignites your inner powers and sends out positive energy that will be picked up by others; this message that you transmit results in positive reactions that you will also pick up in time.
The response will be very overwhelming, often, as if thousands of helping hands come to offer help and stay with you in times when you need help, even without asking. Things will definitely fall into the proper place, because those that willingly give will get back what they had given a thousand fold.
This simple act of sharing unconditionally with full understanding and recognition that one has plenty and trust that he/she will continually have sufficient supply of all his needs produces a bond or connection between him and his higher power, universe, spirit, God or whoever one considers his higher supreme authority that is over him.
That connection is called trust in that higher power, which one declares that he, will always have plentiful, more than his needs and more to share with others, mainly because he trusts God.
One will earn the love and respect of the recipients of his act. One is always confident that there will always be someone who will protect and help him because of their gratitude, because humans will always have that need and impulse to give back any act of compassion that one has demonstrated.
Keep in mind though that, this does not imply that you should expect those that you have helped to do something for you in return. Just share and do not worry about the rewards. Give and share primarily because you feel a great source of happiness by doing it. The universe, that superior outside force will bring you back so many blessings at the right time, in its unique way, beyond your understanding.
The very act of sharing and giving will summon joy’s spirit to fill your heart. That feeling of overwhelming joy you experience when you have helped someone, when that someone thanked you, that itself is already true success.
Likewise, giving is a very healthy habit. It can prolong life when one feels that sense of inner accomplishment and peace.
Let fear and selfishness not be your source for giving. Always give from the heart and be aware of the little miracles that will start to arrive instantaneously.
Giving is truly a part of one’s human nature. That is the reason why when one does it one finds fulfilment and joy, as well as attracting so much blessings that can truly lead to success in all forms.
Merry Christmas
Len
Sunday 20 December 2009
Friday 11 December 2009
Unleashing your creative thinking
People seem to have the misconception that only a select few are able to unleash a steady flow of creative genius. That is not true at all. The fact is, creativity is very much like a muscle that needs to be exercised in order to consistently give out great results. If you don't practice harnessing creative thinking, this skill will very much atrophy into inexistence. But keep working and this skill will soon come to you in a snap.
So how do you unleash your creative thinking? Well, the first thing is to become a human leech. No, we're not talking about just sucking the blood out of every living being available, we're saying that you should take in as much knowledge and learning you can find. Read everything available -- good and bad, and keep your mind open to the infinite possibilities of the universe. The more you know, the more you'll want to know, and the more your faculty of wonder will be exercised. Prepare to be amazed at little facts that add a bit of colour into your life.
Focus on a creative activity everyday. Yes, it's an effort. Even doodling is a creative activity. Don't let anything hinder you. Mindlessness may be a creative activity, but for people who are just starting out to unleash a little bit of creative thinking in their lives, it is helpful and encouraging to have concrete evidence, that, "hey, what I'm doing is getting somewhere." So why don't you try it. Practice drawing for a couple of minutes each day. Bring out your old camera and start snapping photos like crazy. Keep a journal and make a point to write in it religiously. Another cool idea is to write by describing something with your five senses. Try to avoid vague adjectives like "marvellous," "amazing," and "delicious." Before you know it, you'll have built yourself a tiny portfolio, and you'll be amazed at the growth you've undertaken after amassing all those works of art. Who knows, you might actually take to liking those things you do everyday. Pretty soon those things will become a part of you and you'll be addicted to these creative exercises.
Think out of the box -- or don't. Sometimes, constraints are actually a good thing. Limitations discipline you to work within your means. It enables you to be more resourceful. Creative freedom is great, but limitations enforce discipline.
Try something new everyday and let your experiences broaden your perspective. Explore a new district in your neighbourhood. Spend sometime somewhere you've never been before. Chat up someone on the bus. Open up to the people around you. As you thrust yourself out of your comfort zone more and more each day, your sense of adventure grows and so does your zest for life. Think about it. When was the last time you did something for the first time? If it's been a while, I tell you, you've been missing out on a whole lot of experiences that could've added to your growth, emotionally, mentally, physically, or spiritually. Why don't you try something new today? Not only will you learn, but you will also have plenty of stories to share, enabling you to practice your storytelling skills and making you the life of the party.
Embrace insanity. No, not to the point of practically admitting yourself into the mental ward. As John Russell once said, "Sanity calms, but madness is more interesting." Exactly! Every creative thought was once deemed insanity by other "normal" people at one time or another. Luckily, that didn't stop the creative geniuses from standing by them. The thing is sanity or being normal confines people to think... well, normally. Within limits. Creativity is essentially breaking through barriers. Yes, this includes the bizarre and the downright strange. I'm not saying that you yourself should develop a creative personality. That might go haywire. An example of a creative personality would be George Washington, who often rode into battle naked, or James Joyce, who wrote "Dubliners" with beetle juice for an intense fear of ink, or Albert Einstein, who thought his cat was a spy sent by his rival (or in thinking creatively in this case, the term could probably be "arch nemesis.") It's important that your creativity doesn't get you detached from the real world completely.
I hope this article has inspired you to start thinking beyond your "limits." If you follow these steps pretty soon you'll be living a life full of interesting adventures. Unleashing your creative thinking will bring about a new zest for living life.
Len
So how do you unleash your creative thinking? Well, the first thing is to become a human leech. No, we're not talking about just sucking the blood out of every living being available, we're saying that you should take in as much knowledge and learning you can find. Read everything available -- good and bad, and keep your mind open to the infinite possibilities of the universe. The more you know, the more you'll want to know, and the more your faculty of wonder will be exercised. Prepare to be amazed at little facts that add a bit of colour into your life.
Focus on a creative activity everyday. Yes, it's an effort. Even doodling is a creative activity. Don't let anything hinder you. Mindlessness may be a creative activity, but for people who are just starting out to unleash a little bit of creative thinking in their lives, it is helpful and encouraging to have concrete evidence, that, "hey, what I'm doing is getting somewhere." So why don't you try it. Practice drawing for a couple of minutes each day. Bring out your old camera and start snapping photos like crazy. Keep a journal and make a point to write in it religiously. Another cool idea is to write by describing something with your five senses. Try to avoid vague adjectives like "marvellous," "amazing," and "delicious." Before you know it, you'll have built yourself a tiny portfolio, and you'll be amazed at the growth you've undertaken after amassing all those works of art. Who knows, you might actually take to liking those things you do everyday. Pretty soon those things will become a part of you and you'll be addicted to these creative exercises.
Think out of the box -- or don't. Sometimes, constraints are actually a good thing. Limitations discipline you to work within your means. It enables you to be more resourceful. Creative freedom is great, but limitations enforce discipline.
Try something new everyday and let your experiences broaden your perspective. Explore a new district in your neighbourhood. Spend sometime somewhere you've never been before. Chat up someone on the bus. Open up to the people around you. As you thrust yourself out of your comfort zone more and more each day, your sense of adventure grows and so does your zest for life. Think about it. When was the last time you did something for the first time? If it's been a while, I tell you, you've been missing out on a whole lot of experiences that could've added to your growth, emotionally, mentally, physically, or spiritually. Why don't you try something new today? Not only will you learn, but you will also have plenty of stories to share, enabling you to practice your storytelling skills and making you the life of the party.
Embrace insanity. No, not to the point of practically admitting yourself into the mental ward. As John Russell once said, "Sanity calms, but madness is more interesting." Exactly! Every creative thought was once deemed insanity by other "normal" people at one time or another. Luckily, that didn't stop the creative geniuses from standing by them. The thing is sanity or being normal confines people to think... well, normally. Within limits. Creativity is essentially breaking through barriers. Yes, this includes the bizarre and the downright strange. I'm not saying that you yourself should develop a creative personality. That might go haywire. An example of a creative personality would be George Washington, who often rode into battle naked, or James Joyce, who wrote "Dubliners" with beetle juice for an intense fear of ink, or Albert Einstein, who thought his cat was a spy sent by his rival (or in thinking creatively in this case, the term could probably be "arch nemesis.") It's important that your creativity doesn't get you detached from the real world completely.
I hope this article has inspired you to start thinking beyond your "limits." If you follow these steps pretty soon you'll be living a life full of interesting adventures. Unleashing your creative thinking will bring about a new zest for living life.
Len
Friday 16 October 2009
Beware The Closed Mind
Success in its broadest meaning is not limited to only monetary and material possessions. It reveals as being plentiful in countless and several forms in life and nature.
The universal spirit of consciousness, craves to continuously manifest and express itself; this power likewise expresses its longing to demonstrate success, which is naturally wanting to develop, to grow and become bigger and stronger.
However, many realize this longing and natural inclination for growth repressed in them, because of negative thinking, unconstructive programming, and not having enough faith in their abilities and themselves.
Every individual has dual natures. One wants your-self to move forward while the other feels like pulling back. The one nature that you concentrates and cultivates on determines what is at the final end, as both natures tries to hold and to be in control.
Your own “will” will resolve the issue alone. An individual by one utmost attempt of the “will” can change your whole vocation and accomplish miracles. Which is why having an open mind is very significant.
Having a closed mind grasps to a concept without much concern for evidence. They might have even reached at their concept without supporting material evidence. As a result, when they are presented with evidence that is contradicting to their concept, they immediately dismiss it.
Whereas having an open mind before reaching any conclusion, considers first the many evidences approving or disapproving the many interpretations of the concept. They do not just gather information. Their concern encourages them to weigh what they have learned and work towards reaching a decision or conclusion based on facts and evidences.
An open mind allows you to magnetize opportunities and insist and continue on following opportunities, regardless of how small they appear. An open mind is open to all opportunities and possibilities, big or small.
A closed mind however, is stubborn, wanting what the mind envisions without any delay and wanting it as exactly as what the mind perceived it to be, not willing to accept or try something else in its place, when that which the mind has envisioned can not be accomplished or reached.
When you close your mind and becomes stubborn, your essence tells your higher self, including the “powers of the universe” that you are not eager to mature and encounter new things, so then there will be no progress and no transformation and things in your life will never have a chance to improve.
Whatever the mind can envision, the mind can create. What the mind sees, believes feels and thinks are all conveyed to the subconscious mind that then works along with the universal forces and establishes your reality cantered on the visualization of the conscious mind.
Bear in mind though, that it is not sufficient to merely imagine and hope it materializes. Having the power to imagine means also having the power and the capability to work on it to achieve it.
You can achieve it when you open up your mind to success and get rid of limiting thoughts. As to how restricted your life may be and what the circumstances present you at the moment does not really matter, because when you decide to change your attitudes and thoughts, and begin to think without notable limitations, your life’s direction will begin to change.
Focus on possibilities, rather than limitations and expand your thoughts to what is that you believe as yourself.
Here are guidelines on how to program your thoughts for success:
1. Continuously and abundantly display images of your “model” persons, whom you want to become, and things that you want to accomplish. Read magazines containing stories and pictures of lives that you wish to attain.
2. Read autobiographies of successful people. Constantly read self-progress materials packed with examples and ideas of women and men who had set goals, overcome hardships and misfortunes and accomplished what they aimed for in the end.
3. Always affirm yourself. In each undertaking, take the time to focus, “close your eyes” and set a clear mental image of the outcome. Then repeatedly say and claim that you have already achieved it.
4. Nourish your mind with positive thoughts before sleeping, after waking up, at lunch break, anytime. Do not give a chance for negative thoughts to enter into your mind.
Thoughts hold great power. Be conscious of the thoughts that comes into your mind; let the positive in, never entertain the negative. Open up your mind to possibilities and never be afraid to try; if you fail, take it as an opportunity that you have learned so much from failing and try again.
Be Positive move forward
Good luck
Len
The universal spirit of consciousness, craves to continuously manifest and express itself; this power likewise expresses its longing to demonstrate success, which is naturally wanting to develop, to grow and become bigger and stronger.
However, many realize this longing and natural inclination for growth repressed in them, because of negative thinking, unconstructive programming, and not having enough faith in their abilities and themselves.
Every individual has dual natures. One wants your-self to move forward while the other feels like pulling back. The one nature that you concentrates and cultivates on determines what is at the final end, as both natures tries to hold and to be in control.
Your own “will” will resolve the issue alone. An individual by one utmost attempt of the “will” can change your whole vocation and accomplish miracles. Which is why having an open mind is very significant.
Having a closed mind grasps to a concept without much concern for evidence. They might have even reached at their concept without supporting material evidence. As a result, when they are presented with evidence that is contradicting to their concept, they immediately dismiss it.
Whereas having an open mind before reaching any conclusion, considers first the many evidences approving or disapproving the many interpretations of the concept. They do not just gather information. Their concern encourages them to weigh what they have learned and work towards reaching a decision or conclusion based on facts and evidences.
An open mind allows you to magnetize opportunities and insist and continue on following opportunities, regardless of how small they appear. An open mind is open to all opportunities and possibilities, big or small.
A closed mind however, is stubborn, wanting what the mind envisions without any delay and wanting it as exactly as what the mind perceived it to be, not willing to accept or try something else in its place, when that which the mind has envisioned can not be accomplished or reached.
When you close your mind and becomes stubborn, your essence tells your higher self, including the “powers of the universe” that you are not eager to mature and encounter new things, so then there will be no progress and no transformation and things in your life will never have a chance to improve.
Whatever the mind can envision, the mind can create. What the mind sees, believes feels and thinks are all conveyed to the subconscious mind that then works along with the universal forces and establishes your reality cantered on the visualization of the conscious mind.
Bear in mind though, that it is not sufficient to merely imagine and hope it materializes. Having the power to imagine means also having the power and the capability to work on it to achieve it.
You can achieve it when you open up your mind to success and get rid of limiting thoughts. As to how restricted your life may be and what the circumstances present you at the moment does not really matter, because when you decide to change your attitudes and thoughts, and begin to think without notable limitations, your life’s direction will begin to change.
Focus on possibilities, rather than limitations and expand your thoughts to what is that you believe as yourself.
Here are guidelines on how to program your thoughts for success:
1. Continuously and abundantly display images of your “model” persons, whom you want to become, and things that you want to accomplish. Read magazines containing stories and pictures of lives that you wish to attain.
2. Read autobiographies of successful people. Constantly read self-progress materials packed with examples and ideas of women and men who had set goals, overcome hardships and misfortunes and accomplished what they aimed for in the end.
3. Always affirm yourself. In each undertaking, take the time to focus, “close your eyes” and set a clear mental image of the outcome. Then repeatedly say and claim that you have already achieved it.
4. Nourish your mind with positive thoughts before sleeping, after waking up, at lunch break, anytime. Do not give a chance for negative thoughts to enter into your mind.
Thoughts hold great power. Be conscious of the thoughts that comes into your mind; let the positive in, never entertain the negative. Open up your mind to possibilities and never be afraid to try; if you fail, take it as an opportunity that you have learned so much from failing and try again.
Be Positive move forward
Good luck
Len
Sunday 11 October 2009
The Key to a Better Life
Time management is basically about being focused. The Pareto Principle also known as the '80:20 Rule' states that 80% of efforts that are not time managed or unfocused generates only 20% of the desired output. However, 80% of the desired output can be generated using only 20% of a well time managed effort. Although the ratio '80:20' is only arbitrary, it is used to put emphasis on how much is lost or how much can be gained with time management.
Some people view time management as a list of rules that involves scheduling of appointments, goal settings, thorough planning, creating things to do lists and prioritizing. These are the core basics of time management that should be understood to develop an efficient personal time management skill. These basic skills can be fine tuned further to include the finer points of each skill that can give you that extra reserve to make the results you desire.
But there is more skills involved in time management than the core basics. Skills such as decision making, inherent abilities such as emotional intelligence and critical thinking are also essential to your personal growth.
Personal time management involves everything you do. No matter how big and no matter how small, everything counts. Each new knowledge you acquire, each new advice you consider, each new skill you develop should be taken into consideration.
Having a balanced life-style should be the key result in having personal time management. This is the main aspect that many practitioners of personal time management fail to grasp.
Time management is about getting results, not about being busy.
The six areas that personal time management seeks to improve in anyone's life are physical, intellectual, social, career, emotional and spiritual.
The physical aspect involves having a healthy body, less stress and fatigue.
The intellectual aspect involves learning and other mental growth activities.
The social aspect involves developing personal or intimate relations and being an active contributor to society.
The career aspect involves school and work.
The emotional aspect involves appropriate feelings and desires and manifesting them.
The spiritual aspect involves a personal quest for meaning.
Thoroughly planning and having a set of things to do list for each of the key areas may not be very practical, but determining which area in your life is not being giving enough attention is part of time management. Each area creates the whole you, if you are ignoring one area then you are ignoring an important part of yourself.
Personal time management should not be so daunting a task. It is a very sensible and reasonable approach in solving problems big or small.
A great way of learning time management and improving your personal life is to follow several basic activities.
One of them is to review your goals whether it be immediate or long-term goals often.
A way to do this is to keep a list that is always accessible to you.
Always determine which task is necessary or not necessary in achieving your goals and which activities are helping you maintain a balanced life style.
Each and everyone of us has a peek time and a time when we slow down, these are our natural cycles. We should be able to tell when to do the difficult tasks when we are the sharpest.
Learning to say "No". You actually see this advice often. Heed it even if it involves saying the word to family or friends.
Pat yourself at the back or just reward yourself in any manner for an effective time management result.
Try and get the cooperation from people around you who are actually benefiting from your efforts of time management.
Don't procrastinate. Attend to necessary things immediately.
Have a positive attitude and set yourself up for success. But be realistic in your approach in achieving your goals.
Have a record or journal of all your activities. This will help you get things in their proper perspective.
These are the few steps you initially take in becoming a well rounded individual.
As the say personal time management is the art and science of building a better life.
From the moment you integrate into your life time management skills, you have opened several options that can provide a broad spectrum of solutions to your personal growth. It also creates more doors for opportunities to knock on.
Some people view time management as a list of rules that involves scheduling of appointments, goal settings, thorough planning, creating things to do lists and prioritizing. These are the core basics of time management that should be understood to develop an efficient personal time management skill. These basic skills can be fine tuned further to include the finer points of each skill that can give you that extra reserve to make the results you desire.
But there is more skills involved in time management than the core basics. Skills such as decision making, inherent abilities such as emotional intelligence and critical thinking are also essential to your personal growth.
Personal time management involves everything you do. No matter how big and no matter how small, everything counts. Each new knowledge you acquire, each new advice you consider, each new skill you develop should be taken into consideration.
Having a balanced life-style should be the key result in having personal time management. This is the main aspect that many practitioners of personal time management fail to grasp.
Time management is about getting results, not about being busy.
The six areas that personal time management seeks to improve in anyone's life are physical, intellectual, social, career, emotional and spiritual.
The physical aspect involves having a healthy body, less stress and fatigue.
The intellectual aspect involves learning and other mental growth activities.
The social aspect involves developing personal or intimate relations and being an active contributor to society.
The career aspect involves school and work.
The emotional aspect involves appropriate feelings and desires and manifesting them.
The spiritual aspect involves a personal quest for meaning.
Thoroughly planning and having a set of things to do list for each of the key areas may not be very practical, but determining which area in your life is not being giving enough attention is part of time management. Each area creates the whole you, if you are ignoring one area then you are ignoring an important part of yourself.
Personal time management should not be so daunting a task. It is a very sensible and reasonable approach in solving problems big or small.
A great way of learning time management and improving your personal life is to follow several basic activities.
One of them is to review your goals whether it be immediate or long-term goals often.
A way to do this is to keep a list that is always accessible to you.
Always determine which task is necessary or not necessary in achieving your goals and which activities are helping you maintain a balanced life style.
Each and everyone of us has a peek time and a time when we slow down, these are our natural cycles. We should be able to tell when to do the difficult tasks when we are the sharpest.
Learning to say "No". You actually see this advice often. Heed it even if it involves saying the word to family or friends.
Pat yourself at the back or just reward yourself in any manner for an effective time management result.
Try and get the cooperation from people around you who are actually benefiting from your efforts of time management.
Don't procrastinate. Attend to necessary things immediately.
Have a positive attitude and set yourself up for success. But be realistic in your approach in achieving your goals.
Have a record or journal of all your activities. This will help you get things in their proper perspective.
These are the few steps you initially take in becoming a well rounded individual.
As the say personal time management is the art and science of building a better life.
From the moment you integrate into your life time management skills, you have opened several options that can provide a broad spectrum of solutions to your personal growth. It also creates more doors for opportunities to knock on.
Sunday 4 October 2009
Enjoy Your Life: Change Your Point of View
"Two men look out through the same bars: One sees the mud, and one sees the stars."- Frederick Langbridge, A Cluster of Quiet Thoughts
If you’ve placed second in a writing contest, will you jump for joy and push for better results the next time or will you be discouraged and find an excuse not to join again?
In life, you are always filled with choices. You may opt to have a pessimist’s view and live a self-defeated life or you may decide to take the optimist’s route and take a challenging and fulfilling life.
So why nurture an optimist’s point of view? And why now?
Well, optimism has been linked to positive mood and good morale; to academic, athletic, military, occupational and political success; to popularity; to good health and even to long life and freedom from trauma.
On the other hand, the rates of depression and pessimism have never been higher. It affects middle-aged adults the same way it hits younger people. The mean age of onset has gone from 30 to 15. It is no longer a middle-aged housewife’s disorder but also a teen-ager’s disorder’ as well.
Here’s how optimists are in action and researches that back up why it really pays to be an optimist:
Optimists expect the best
The defining characteristic of pessimists is that they tend to believe bad events, which will last a long time and undermine everything they do, are their own fault.
The truth is optimists are confronted with the same hard knocks of this world. What differs is the way they explain their misfortune---it’s the opposite way. They tend to believe defeat is just a temporary setback, that its causes are confined to this one case.
Optimists tend to focus on and plan for the 'problem' at hand. They use 'positive reinterpretation.' In other words, they most likely reinterpret a negative experience in a way that helps them learn and grow. Such people are unfazed by bad situation, they perceive it is a challenge and try harder.
They won’t say “things will never get better,” “If I failed once, it will happen again” and “If I experience misfortune in one part of my life, then it will happen in my whole life.”
Positive expectancies of optimists also predict better reactions during transitions to new environments, sudden tragedies and unlikely turn of events. If they fall, they will stand up. They see opportunities instead of obstacles.
People respond positively to optimists
Optimists are proactive and less dependent on others for their happiness. They find no need to control or manipulate people. They usually draw people towards them. Their optimistic view of the world can be contagious and influence those they are with.
Optimism seems a socially desirable trait in all communities. Those who share optimism are generally accepted while those who spread gloom, panic and hysteria are treated unfavourably.
In life, these people often win elections; get voted most congenial and sought for advice.
When the going gets tough, optimists get tougher
Optimists typically maintain higher levels of subjective well-being during times of stress than do people who are less optimistic. In contrast, pessimists are likely to react to stressful events by denying that they exist or by avoiding dealing with problems. Pessimists are more likely to quit trying when difficulties arise.
They persevere. They just don’t give up easily, they are also known for their patience. Inching their way a step closer to that goal or elusive dream.
Optimists are healthier and live longer
Medical research has justified that simple pleasures and a positive outlook can cause a measurable increase in the body's ability to fight disease.
Optimists’ health is unusually good. They age well, much freer than most people from the usual physical ills of middle age. And they get to outlive those prone to negative thoughts.
So why not be an optimist today? And think positively towards a more fulfilled life.
Why not look forward to success in all your endeavours? Why not be resilient? Like everybody else you are bound to hit lows sometimes but don’t just stay there. Carry yourself out of the mud and improve your chances of getting back on the right track. And why not inspire others to remove their dark-coloured glasses and see life in the bright side?
Len Hutton
If you’ve placed second in a writing contest, will you jump for joy and push for better results the next time or will you be discouraged and find an excuse not to join again?
In life, you are always filled with choices. You may opt to have a pessimist’s view and live a self-defeated life or you may decide to take the optimist’s route and take a challenging and fulfilling life.
So why nurture an optimist’s point of view? And why now?
Well, optimism has been linked to positive mood and good morale; to academic, athletic, military, occupational and political success; to popularity; to good health and even to long life and freedom from trauma.
On the other hand, the rates of depression and pessimism have never been higher. It affects middle-aged adults the same way it hits younger people. The mean age of onset has gone from 30 to 15. It is no longer a middle-aged housewife’s disorder but also a teen-ager’s disorder’ as well.
Here’s how optimists are in action and researches that back up why it really pays to be an optimist:
Optimists expect the best
The defining characteristic of pessimists is that they tend to believe bad events, which will last a long time and undermine everything they do, are their own fault.
The truth is optimists are confronted with the same hard knocks of this world. What differs is the way they explain their misfortune---it’s the opposite way. They tend to believe defeat is just a temporary setback, that its causes are confined to this one case.
Optimists tend to focus on and plan for the 'problem' at hand. They use 'positive reinterpretation.' In other words, they most likely reinterpret a negative experience in a way that helps them learn and grow. Such people are unfazed by bad situation, they perceive it is a challenge and try harder.
They won’t say “things will never get better,” “If I failed once, it will happen again” and “If I experience misfortune in one part of my life, then it will happen in my whole life.”
Positive expectancies of optimists also predict better reactions during transitions to new environments, sudden tragedies and unlikely turn of events. If they fall, they will stand up. They see opportunities instead of obstacles.
People respond positively to optimists
Optimists are proactive and less dependent on others for their happiness. They find no need to control or manipulate people. They usually draw people towards them. Their optimistic view of the world can be contagious and influence those they are with.
Optimism seems a socially desirable trait in all communities. Those who share optimism are generally accepted while those who spread gloom, panic and hysteria are treated unfavourably.
In life, these people often win elections; get voted most congenial and sought for advice.
When the going gets tough, optimists get tougher
Optimists typically maintain higher levels of subjective well-being during times of stress than do people who are less optimistic. In contrast, pessimists are likely to react to stressful events by denying that they exist or by avoiding dealing with problems. Pessimists are more likely to quit trying when difficulties arise.
They persevere. They just don’t give up easily, they are also known for their patience. Inching their way a step closer to that goal or elusive dream.
Optimists are healthier and live longer
Medical research has justified that simple pleasures and a positive outlook can cause a measurable increase in the body's ability to fight disease.
Optimists’ health is unusually good. They age well, much freer than most people from the usual physical ills of middle age. And they get to outlive those prone to negative thoughts.
So why not be an optimist today? And think positively towards a more fulfilled life.
Why not look forward to success in all your endeavours? Why not be resilient? Like everybody else you are bound to hit lows sometimes but don’t just stay there. Carry yourself out of the mud and improve your chances of getting back on the right track. And why not inspire others to remove their dark-coloured glasses and see life in the bright side?
Len Hutton
Sunday 30 August 2009
Impossible is Just a Word
Everyone, at some point of his or her life, has dreamed of being somebody special, somebody big. Who hasn't fantasized about being the one who kicks the game-winning goal? Who hasn't dreamed of being the homecoming queen? And how many times have we dreamed of being rich, or successful, or happy with our relationships?
Often, we dream big dreams and have great aspirations. Unfortunately, our dreams remain just that – dreams. And our aspirations easily collect dust in our attic.
This is a sad turn of events in our life. Instead of experiencing exciting adventures in self actualization, we get caught up in the humdrum of living from day-to-day just barely existing.
But you know what? Life could be so much better, if only we learned to aim higher.
The most common problem to setting goals is the word impossible. Most people get hung up thinking I can't do this. It's too hard. It's too impossible. No one can do this.
However, if everyone thought that, there would be no inventions, no innovations, and no breakthroughs in human accomplishment.
Remember that scientists were baffled when they took a look at the humble bumblebee. Theoretically, they said, it was impossible for the bumblebee to fly. Unfortunately for the bumble, bee no one has told it so. So fly it does.
On the other hand, some people suffer from dreaming totally outrageous dreams and not acting on them. The result? Broken dreams, and tattered aspirations.
If you limit yourself with self-doubt, and self-limiting assumptions, you will never be able to break past what you deem impossible. If you reach too far out into the sky without working towards your goal, you will find yourself clinging on to the impossible dream.
Try this exercise. Take a piece of paper and write down some goals in your life. Under one header, list down things ‘you know you can do’. Under another header, write the things ‘you might be able to do.’ And under one more, list the things that that are ‘impossible for you to do.’
Now look at all the headers strive every day to accomplish the goals that are under things ‘you know you can do’. Check them when you are able to accomplish them. As you slowly are able to check all of your goals under that heading, try accomplishing the goals under the other header-the one that reads ‘you might be able to do.’
As of the items you wrote under things I could do are accomplished, you can move the goals that are under things that are ‘impossible for you to do’ to the list of things ‘you might be able to do.’
As you iterate through this process, you will find out that the goals you thought were impossible become easier to accomplish. And the impossible begin to seem possible after all.
You see, the technique here is not to limit your imagination. It is to aim high, and start working towards that goal little by little. However, it also is unwise to set a goal that is truly unrealistic.
Those who just dream towards a goal without working hard end up disappointed and disillusioned.
On the other hand, if you told someone a hundred years ago that it was possible for man to be on the moon, they would laugh at you. If you had told them that you could send mail from here to the other side of the world in a few seconds, they would say you were out of your mind. But, through sheer desire and perseverance, these impossible dreams are now realities.
Thomas Edison once said that genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. Nothing could be truer. For a person to accomplish his or her dreams, there has to be had work and discipline. But take note that that 1% has to be a think-big dream, and not some easily accomplished one.
Ask any gym rat and he or she will tell you that there can be no gains unless you are put out of your comfort zone. Remember the saying, “No pain, no gain”? That is as true as it can be.
So dream on! Don’t get caught up with your perceived limitations. Think big and work hard to attain those dreams. As you step up the ladder of progress, you will just about find out that the impossible has just become a little bit more possible.
Keep Smiling
Len
http://www.lenhuttonphotos.com
Often, we dream big dreams and have great aspirations. Unfortunately, our dreams remain just that – dreams. And our aspirations easily collect dust in our attic.
This is a sad turn of events in our life. Instead of experiencing exciting adventures in self actualization, we get caught up in the humdrum of living from day-to-day just barely existing.
But you know what? Life could be so much better, if only we learned to aim higher.
The most common problem to setting goals is the word impossible. Most people get hung up thinking I can't do this. It's too hard. It's too impossible. No one can do this.
However, if everyone thought that, there would be no inventions, no innovations, and no breakthroughs in human accomplishment.
Remember that scientists were baffled when they took a look at the humble bumblebee. Theoretically, they said, it was impossible for the bumblebee to fly. Unfortunately for the bumble, bee no one has told it so. So fly it does.
On the other hand, some people suffer from dreaming totally outrageous dreams and not acting on them. The result? Broken dreams, and tattered aspirations.
If you limit yourself with self-doubt, and self-limiting assumptions, you will never be able to break past what you deem impossible. If you reach too far out into the sky without working towards your goal, you will find yourself clinging on to the impossible dream.
Try this exercise. Take a piece of paper and write down some goals in your life. Under one header, list down things ‘you know you can do’. Under another header, write the things ‘you might be able to do.’ And under one more, list the things that that are ‘impossible for you to do.’
Now look at all the headers strive every day to accomplish the goals that are under things ‘you know you can do’. Check them when you are able to accomplish them. As you slowly are able to check all of your goals under that heading, try accomplishing the goals under the other header-the one that reads ‘you might be able to do.’
As of the items you wrote under things I could do are accomplished, you can move the goals that are under things that are ‘impossible for you to do’ to the list of things ‘you might be able to do.’
As you iterate through this process, you will find out that the goals you thought were impossible become easier to accomplish. And the impossible begin to seem possible after all.
You see, the technique here is not to limit your imagination. It is to aim high, and start working towards that goal little by little. However, it also is unwise to set a goal that is truly unrealistic.
Those who just dream towards a goal without working hard end up disappointed and disillusioned.
On the other hand, if you told someone a hundred years ago that it was possible for man to be on the moon, they would laugh at you. If you had told them that you could send mail from here to the other side of the world in a few seconds, they would say you were out of your mind. But, through sheer desire and perseverance, these impossible dreams are now realities.
Thomas Edison once said that genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. Nothing could be truer. For a person to accomplish his or her dreams, there has to be had work and discipline. But take note that that 1% has to be a think-big dream, and not some easily accomplished one.
Ask any gym rat and he or she will tell you that there can be no gains unless you are put out of your comfort zone. Remember the saying, “No pain, no gain”? That is as true as it can be.
So dream on! Don’t get caught up with your perceived limitations. Think big and work hard to attain those dreams. As you step up the ladder of progress, you will just about find out that the impossible has just become a little bit more possible.
Keep Smiling
Len
http://www.lenhuttonphotos.com
Sunday 23 August 2009
What do I have to sacrifice to succeed?
It's very easy to get the perception when you jump online that everyone's making money. It's seems all you have to do is sign up for any program that promises a fortune to you if you follow their plan and give them lot's of money to get started.
There are a lot of people making money online. But there is a common factor with all these people. And you will never know what it is reading a sales page! Let me repeat that. You will never no what makes people successful online by reading a Sales Page!
You must understand if you read a sales page and it suggests that you can become rich by sending them some money, don't be fooled. The sales page may even outline how people have taken advantage of this system and it worked for them! They made millions applying these Secret Techniques...
They will even give you fancy testimonials. Never let testimonials be the deciding factor if you're going to pursue an opportunity. They are easily fabricated. Many times marketers will promote each others products not because they believe or care about them, but because it's good for their business.
"So what does that mean? You still haven't told me what I need to sacrifice!"
You must sacrifice your approach. Don't believe everything you read. Learn to research, ask questions, and find the answers. Don't jump into anything without weighing the risk.
Now some of you might have unlimited funds. Many of you may not. It doesn't matter. Time translates into money. Remember time is money!
I challenge you to decide what you are worth today. Is your time worth £10 per hour? Or is it worth £25? Don't forget to factor in your living expenses and overhead...
Approach everything like your survival depends on it. A decision you make today may allow you to survive a few months but crush you in 6. Everything has a long term effect.
If you pursue something that costs £250 and you're worth £10 per hour, you have to work 50 hours to make that up.... why? Because you might have spent 25 hours figuring it out and implementing it.
You can see how it can be devastating if it turns out it doesn't work... Change your approach.
One more thing, the people that are successful online aren't selling their success secrets. It's all hype. The people that are selling success secrets are most likely successful only because people buy into their bogus program
Visit my website!!!
www.lenhuttonphotos.com
There are a lot of people making money online. But there is a common factor with all these people. And you will never know what it is reading a sales page! Let me repeat that. You will never no what makes people successful online by reading a Sales Page!
You must understand if you read a sales page and it suggests that you can become rich by sending them some money, don't be fooled. The sales page may even outline how people have taken advantage of this system and it worked for them! They made millions applying these Secret Techniques...
They will even give you fancy testimonials. Never let testimonials be the deciding factor if you're going to pursue an opportunity. They are easily fabricated. Many times marketers will promote each others products not because they believe or care about them, but because it's good for their business.
"So what does that mean? You still haven't told me what I need to sacrifice!"
You must sacrifice your approach. Don't believe everything you read. Learn to research, ask questions, and find the answers. Don't jump into anything without weighing the risk.
Now some of you might have unlimited funds. Many of you may not. It doesn't matter. Time translates into money. Remember time is money!
I challenge you to decide what you are worth today. Is your time worth £10 per hour? Or is it worth £25? Don't forget to factor in your living expenses and overhead...
Approach everything like your survival depends on it. A decision you make today may allow you to survive a few months but crush you in 6. Everything has a long term effect.
If you pursue something that costs £250 and you're worth £10 per hour, you have to work 50 hours to make that up.... why? Because you might have spent 25 hours figuring it out and implementing it.
You can see how it can be devastating if it turns out it doesn't work... Change your approach.
One more thing, the people that are successful online aren't selling their success secrets. It's all hype. The people that are selling success secrets are most likely successful only because people buy into their bogus program
Visit my website!!!
www.lenhuttonphotos.com
Friday 21 August 2009
Expect Success, But Know Your Path...
Everyone reading this can succeed! I can say that with 100% confidence. There is room for everyone outhere.
So expect to Win. Expect to Succeed. Why? Because you will. There is nothing standing in your way...
You say, "Well how can you say that. Look at my financial situation." Or, "I don't have the education so I'll never be able to compete." Or, "I don't have the time!"
Well I'm here to tell you none of those hold water. They are temporary problems. They can be overcome. And giving up is a permanent solution to those temporary problems.
If you commit yourself 100%, burn your bridges, and put all of your energy to task, YOU WILL SUCCEED! There's no question...
There are a few things you need to get through your head.
You can't put a time limit on it.
You have to expect to fail before you succeed.
You have to create a Burning Desire.
You must walk before your run... Get educated.
You must have complete focus on your goal.
You need a defined purpose.
You have to find YOUR opportunity.
You have to employ patience.
You have enjoy what you are doing and believe in it...
And You Must Learn From Others...
Your commitment to Success is the key to finding it. Commit to enjoying the journey. Someday in hindsight you will realize the journey itself produced your life's dreams. The ups and downs are just brush strokes on your life's work.
So expect to Win. Expect to Succeed. Why? Because you will. There is nothing standing in your way...
You say, "Well how can you say that. Look at my financial situation." Or, "I don't have the education so I'll never be able to compete." Or, "I don't have the time!"
Well I'm here to tell you none of those hold water. They are temporary problems. They can be overcome. And giving up is a permanent solution to those temporary problems.
If you commit yourself 100%, burn your bridges, and put all of your energy to task, YOU WILL SUCCEED! There's no question...
There are a few things you need to get through your head.
You can't put a time limit on it.
You have to expect to fail before you succeed.
You have to create a Burning Desire.
You must walk before your run... Get educated.
You must have complete focus on your goal.
You need a defined purpose.
You have to find YOUR opportunity.
You have to employ patience.
You have enjoy what you are doing and believe in it...
And You Must Learn From Others...
Your commitment to Success is the key to finding it. Commit to enjoying the journey. Someday in hindsight you will realize the journey itself produced your life's dreams. The ups and downs are just brush strokes on your life's work.
Saturday 15 August 2009
Expect Success, But Know Your Path...
Everyone reading this can succeed! I can say that with 100% confidence. There is room for everyone out there.
So expect to Win. Expect to Succeed. Why? Because you will. There is nothing standing in your way...
You say, "Well how can you say that. Look at my financial situation." Or, "I don't have the education so I'll never be able to compete." Or, "I don't have the time!"
Well I'm here to tell you none of those hold water. They are temporary problems. They can be overcome. And giving up is a permanent solution to those temporary problems.
If you commit yourself 100%, burn your bridges, and put all of your energy to task, YOU WILL SUCCEED! There's no question...
There are a few things you need to get through your head.
You can't put a time limit on it.
You have to expect to fail before you succeed.
You have to create a Burning Desire.
You must walk before your run... Get educated.
You must have complete focus on your goal.
You need a defined purpose.
You have to find YOUR opportunity.
You have to employ patience.
You have enjoy what you are doing and believe in it...
And You Must Learn From Others...
Your commitment to Success is the key to finding it. Commit to enjoying the journey. Someday in hindsight you will realize the journey itself produced your life's dreams. The ups and downs are just brush strokes on your life's work.
So expect to Win. Expect to Succeed. Why? Because you will. There is nothing standing in your way...
You say, "Well how can you say that. Look at my financial situation." Or, "I don't have the education so I'll never be able to compete." Or, "I don't have the time!"
Well I'm here to tell you none of those hold water. They are temporary problems. They can be overcome. And giving up is a permanent solution to those temporary problems.
If you commit yourself 100%, burn your bridges, and put all of your energy to task, YOU WILL SUCCEED! There's no question...
There are a few things you need to get through your head.
You can't put a time limit on it.
You have to expect to fail before you succeed.
You have to create a Burning Desire.
You must walk before your run... Get educated.
You must have complete focus on your goal.
You need a defined purpose.
You have to find YOUR opportunity.
You have to employ patience.
You have enjoy what you are doing and believe in it...
And You Must Learn From Others...
Your commitment to Success is the key to finding it. Commit to enjoying the journey. Someday in hindsight you will realize the journey itself produced your life's dreams. The ups and downs are just brush strokes on your life's work.
Sunday 17 May 2009
People photography
If you enjoy photographing events and love to take pictures of people have you ever considered photography as a career or even just a means to making some money on the side to pay for your hobby?Probably the hardest part is getting started. These days it’s probably easier than it has ever been to get into photography as a profession. What with the introduction of digital Portrait and wedding photography, taking photographs has become a lot easier, sorting and presenting the photographs is also much cheaper and can be made to look a lot more professional, as you don’t have to print any photographs that you are not going to sell, and all your presentation can be done as a CD slide show.Probably the best way to start is to take portraits to get a bit of experience, why not try a bit of event photography to help you to get used to working fast.Digital wedding photography tips...Certainly don’t try any digital wedding photography until you feel pretty confident.Try to get some experience of wedding photography by offering to go out with a professional wedding photographer for a few occasions. Offer him the opportunity to use any photographs that you may take as a thank you for the experience.If you can get proficient at digital wedding photography you will always be able to earn a bit of extra money. (As there are always more weddings on a Saturday than there will ever be enough wedding photographers to cover them.)Most good wedding photographers love doing weddings and that’s what probably makes them good. However, some very good portrait and general photographers start to go grey just thinking they may have to do a wedding.A word of warning!If you find it hard to talk to people, leave wedding photography well alone.For more information on digital wedding photography tips and other photography subjects keep en eye on future postings here.
Len.
Len.
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