Sometimes, when all our doubts, fears and insecurities wrap us all up, we always come up with the idea of “I wish I was somebody else.” We more often than not, think and believe that other people are better than us. - When in reality, those same people are more scared than we are.
Isn’t it funny? We look at other people, envy them for looking so outrageously perfect and wish we could trade places with them, while they look at us and think the same thing. We are insecure of other people who themselves are insecure of us. We suffer from low self-esteem, lack of self-confidence and weary of any effort at self improvement because we are enveloped in quiet desperation.
One key to self improvement is to LISTEN and TALK to a trusted friend. Find someone who you find comfort in opening up to, even on the most sensitive topics you want to discuss. Ask questions like “what is it about me you would like to see change”, “do you think I am ill-mannered?”, “Do I always sound so argumentative?”, “Do I talk too loud?”, “Does my breath smell?”, “Do I ever bore you when we’re together?” In this way, the other person will truly know that you are interested in improving yourself. Listen for comments and criticisms and with an Open Heart and an Open Mind, don’t give answers like “Don’t exaggerate! That’s just the way I am!” Do not make excuses. Open up your mind and heart as well.
Self improvement makes us better people, and puts us in the position to inspire other people to improve too. Therefore it is important that before telling other people how to improve themselves, let them see that you yourself is a representation and a product of self improvement.
Stop thinking of yourself as a second-rate person, forget the repetitive thought of “If only I was richer… if only I was thinner” and so on. Accepting your true self is the first step to self improvement. We need to stop comparing ourselves to others only to find out at the end that we’ve got 10 more reasons to envy them. Even the bible let us know that “For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise” 2 Cor 10:12. NKJV
We all have our insecurities. Nobody is perfect. We always wish we had better things, better features, better body parts, etc. But life needs not to be perfect for people to be happy about themselves. Self improvement and loving yourself is not a matter of shouting out to the whole world that you are perfect or that you are the best. It’s the virtue of acceptance and contentment. When we begin to improve ourselves, we then begin to feel contented and happy.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Power of Innovation 2
5. Don't listen to what other people say. Follow the beat of your own drum. Allowing for the input of other people will only bring cacophony to the music you are trying to make. If you have an original idea, don't waste your time and effort trying to make people understand. They won't. And the help you will probably get comes in the form of negative feedback. If all those geniuses listened to their peers, we would probably still be living in the middle ages.
6. Find your own style. You can always tell a Van Gogh from a Matisse. You'll know Hemingway wrote something by the choice of words on the paper. So it is the same with you. People will appreciate your innovation more because it is uniquely yours. This will let people see how valuable an asset you are.
7. Don't hide behind nifty gadgets or tools. You don't need the most expensive set of paints to produce a masterpiece. The same goes for writing. You don't need some expensive fountain pen and really smooth paper for a bestseller. In fact, J.K. Rowling wrote the first book of the Harry Potter Series on bits of tissue. So what if you've got an expensive SLR camera but are a crappy photographer? Who cares if you've got a blinging laptop if you can't write at all? The artist actually reduces the number of tools he has as he gets better at his craft: he knows what works and what doesn't.
8. Nothing will work without passion. What wakes you up in the mornings? What keeps the flame burning? What is the one thing that you'll die for if you don't do it? Sometimes people with talent are overtaken by the people who want it more. Think the hare and the tortoise. Ellen Degeneres once said that if you're not doing something that you want to do, then you don't really need to do it. And that's true. Sometimes you just want something so bad you become a virtual unstoppable. And that is passion. Passion will keep you going.
9. Don't worry about inspiration. You can't force it; inspiration hits when you least expect it to, for those unpredictable yet inevitable moments you should prepare. An idea could strike you on the subway, yet alas, you poor unfortunate soul; you have no sheet of paper to scribble down a thought that could change the world. Avoid these disasters. Have a pen and paper within your arm's reach at all times. I hope these tips will help you bring more innovation into your life. Keep in mind that you're doing these things for your own satisfaction and not anybody else's. But soon enough others will take notice.
6. Find your own style. You can always tell a Van Gogh from a Matisse. You'll know Hemingway wrote something by the choice of words on the paper. So it is the same with you. People will appreciate your innovation more because it is uniquely yours. This will let people see how valuable an asset you are.
7. Don't hide behind nifty gadgets or tools. You don't need the most expensive set of paints to produce a masterpiece. The same goes for writing. You don't need some expensive fountain pen and really smooth paper for a bestseller. In fact, J.K. Rowling wrote the first book of the Harry Potter Series on bits of tissue. So what if you've got an expensive SLR camera but are a crappy photographer? Who cares if you've got a blinging laptop if you can't write at all? The artist actually reduces the number of tools he has as he gets better at his craft: he knows what works and what doesn't.
8. Nothing will work without passion. What wakes you up in the mornings? What keeps the flame burning? What is the one thing that you'll die for if you don't do it? Sometimes people with talent are overtaken by the people who want it more. Think the hare and the tortoise. Ellen Degeneres once said that if you're not doing something that you want to do, then you don't really need to do it. And that's true. Sometimes you just want something so bad you become a virtual unstoppable. And that is passion. Passion will keep you going.
9. Don't worry about inspiration. You can't force it; inspiration hits when you least expect it to, for those unpredictable yet inevitable moments you should prepare. An idea could strike you on the subway, yet alas, you poor unfortunate soul; you have no sheet of paper to scribble down a thought that could change the world. Avoid these disasters. Have a pen and paper within your arm's reach at all times. I hope these tips will help you bring more innovation into your life. Keep in mind that you're doing these things for your own satisfaction and not anybody else's. But soon enough others will take notice.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Power of Innovation 1
I have found out that any effort at self improvement, goal setting and/or dream actualization is difficult without a very vital element. And that element is the Power of Innovation.
The ‘Power of Innovation’ is a talent that everyone has, yet they think they don't. If you've ever marveled at somebody's creative prowess, guess what, you can create and innovate too. It just takes time. Everyone is born creative. The box of crayons in kindergarten was not limited to those who possessed potential; because the truth is, everybody has potential.
You know how long it took to learn to ride a bike or drive or to never make the same mistake again? It's the same with innovation. It takes a bit of practice, self development and a lot of time before this mind function comes easily when called. You want to bring the power of innovation into your own life? Here are a few tips.
1. You have the mind of Christ. God is the ultimate innovator; you only need to look at creation to acknowledge that. He made you in his image and after his likeness. This means we are not only like Him physically, but have the same abilities as Him. Thus connecting to Him through Jesus unlocks His creative powers inside of us. (Philippians 2:13)
2. Record your dreams. Aren't some of them just the craziest things that your conscious mind would never have thought of? If you've had these dreams before, and I'm sure you have, this only shows you the untapped innovative power you have lying within. So jot down those ideas. Those dreams may just create an innovative spark in you.
3. Spend time on it. I cannot stress that enough, although, please do not mistake this tip to mean you should quit your day job entirely. Do not. This involves some tricky time management but with a little discipline you'll be able to squeeze both in. Invest time in those dreams, that’s the only way they will grow from a spark to a roaring fire.
4. Exercise. Take a walk. Run a mile or two. Send all those endorphins coursing through your veins. Exercising not only strengthens the body, but it certainly clears and relaxes your mind and allows for anything to pop up.
The ‘Power of Innovation’ is a talent that everyone has, yet they think they don't. If you've ever marveled at somebody's creative prowess, guess what, you can create and innovate too. It just takes time. Everyone is born creative. The box of crayons in kindergarten was not limited to those who possessed potential; because the truth is, everybody has potential.
You know how long it took to learn to ride a bike or drive or to never make the same mistake again? It's the same with innovation. It takes a bit of practice, self development and a lot of time before this mind function comes easily when called. You want to bring the power of innovation into your own life? Here are a few tips.
1. You have the mind of Christ. God is the ultimate innovator; you only need to look at creation to acknowledge that. He made you in his image and after his likeness. This means we are not only like Him physically, but have the same abilities as Him. Thus connecting to Him through Jesus unlocks His creative powers inside of us. (Philippians 2:13)
2. Record your dreams. Aren't some of them just the craziest things that your conscious mind would never have thought of? If you've had these dreams before, and I'm sure you have, this only shows you the untapped innovative power you have lying within. So jot down those ideas. Those dreams may just create an innovative spark in you.
3. Spend time on it. I cannot stress that enough, although, please do not mistake this tip to mean you should quit your day job entirely. Do not. This involves some tricky time management but with a little discipline you'll be able to squeeze both in. Invest time in those dreams, that’s the only way they will grow from a spark to a roaring fire.
4. Exercise. Take a walk. Run a mile or two. Send all those endorphins coursing through your veins. Exercising not only strengthens the body, but it certainly clears and relaxes your mind and allows for anything to pop up.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Impossible is Just a Word 2
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 each 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 navigate 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. 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.
What this means is that your dreams are attainable if you will only work hard, persevere and be patient. Thomas Edison once said that genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. Nothing could be truer. For one to accomplish his or her dreams there has to be hard work and discipline 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, friend! 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.
Finally, remember what the Bible say, “For with God nothing shall be impossible” Luke 1:37.
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 each 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 navigate 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. 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.
What this means is that your dreams are attainable if you will only work hard, persevere and be patient. Thomas Edison once said that genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. Nothing could be truer. For one to accomplish his or her dreams there has to be hard work and discipline 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, friend! 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.
Finally, remember what the Bible say, “For with God nothing shall be impossible” Luke 1:37.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Impossible is Just a Word 1
Everyone, at some point in his or her life, has dreamed of being somebody special, somebody big. Who hasn't fantasized about being the one who hits the game-winning homer? Who hasn't dreamed of being the homecoming queen? And how many times have we dreamed of being rich, or successful, or happy in 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 achieving goals is the word impossible. Most people get hung up thinking I can't do this. It's too hard. It's 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. Fortunately for the bumblebee 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.
If you box yourself in with self-doubt, and self-limiting assumptions, you will never be able to break past what you consider 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. So you think that goal is impossible to accomplish, let me show you that impossible is only, just a word.
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 achieving goals is the word impossible. Most people get hung up thinking I can't do this. It's too hard. It's 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. Fortunately for the bumblebee 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.
If you box yourself in with self-doubt, and self-limiting assumptions, you will never be able to break past what you consider 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. So you think that goal is impossible to accomplish, let me show you that impossible is only, just a word.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Genuine Joy/Happiness Comes from Within 2
In my last post, I discussed that genuine joy/happiness come from within. To continue from there, every one has his own definition of ‘happiness’. And it isn’t always about driving the hottest Formula 1 car, nor getting the employee of the year award, earning the highest 13th month pay, or beating the sales quota. Sometimes, the most sought after prizes in life doesn’t always go to the fastest, the strongest, the bravest or no even not even the best.
So how do you become genuinely happy? Happiness for a writer may mean launching as much best selling books as possible. Happiness for a basketball rookie may mean getting the rookie of the year award. Happiness for a beggar may mean a lot of money. Happiness for a business man may mean success.
So, really now, how do we become genuinely happy? Simple. You don’t have to have the best things in this world. It’s about doing and making the best out of every single thing. When you find yourself smiling at your own mistake and telling your self “Oh, I’ll do better next time”, you carry with you a flame of strong will power to persevere that may spread out like a brush fire. You possess a willingness to stand up again and try – that will make you a genuinely happy person.
When you learn to accept yourself and your own faults. You pass step 1 in the project “how to become genuinely happy”. For as long as you know how to accept others, you will also be accepted. For as long as you love and know how to love, you will receive love ten folds back.
Again, throw me that same question “how to become genuinely happy?” I’ll refer you to a friend of mine who strongly quoted- “Most of us know that laughter is the best medicine to life’s aches and pain. But most of us don’t know that the best kind of laughter is laughter over self. Coz then you don’t just become happy… you become free.” (Proverbs 15: 13 & 17: 22)
So how do you become genuinely happy? Happiness for a writer may mean launching as much best selling books as possible. Happiness for a basketball rookie may mean getting the rookie of the year award. Happiness for a beggar may mean a lot of money. Happiness for a business man may mean success.
So, really now, how do we become genuinely happy? Simple. You don’t have to have the best things in this world. It’s about doing and making the best out of every single thing. When you find yourself smiling at your own mistake and telling your self “Oh, I’ll do better next time”, you carry with you a flame of strong will power to persevere that may spread out like a brush fire. You possess a willingness to stand up again and try – that will make you a genuinely happy person.
When you learn to accept yourself and your own faults. You pass step 1 in the project “how to become genuinely happy”. For as long as you know how to accept others, you will also be accepted. For as long as you love and know how to love, you will receive love ten folds back.
Again, throw me that same question “how to become genuinely happy?” I’ll refer you to a friend of mine who strongly quoted- “Most of us know that laughter is the best medicine to life’s aches and pain. But most of us don’t know that the best kind of laughter is laughter over self. Coz then you don’t just become happy… you become free.” (Proverbs 15: 13 & 17: 22)
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Genuine Joy/Happiness Comes from Within 1
Life isn’t the sweetest candy. Sometimes, I feel like the world is just too heavy, but then I look around and find people who have continued to live fascinating and wonderful lives. And then I ask myself – “How did their life become so adorably sweet? How come they still can manage to laugh and play around despite a busy and sometimes stressful life?” Then I paused and pondered for awhile… I figured out that maybe, they started to work on a place called ‘SELF’.
So, how does one become genuinely happy? Step 1 is to love yourself.
My theology professor once said that “loving means accepting.” To love oneself means, not only to accept that you are not a perfect being, but that in that imperfection lies some God-given abilities to make something good out of your life.
However, loving yourself and discovering those abilities are not always possible without a heartfelt relationship with Jesus. He made you, He knows you best and He put all those abilities in you in the first place. Who better to make you love yourself than the One that made you?
Genuine happiness also pertains to contentment. When you are contented with the job you have, the way you look, with your family, your friends, the place you live in, your car, and all the things you now have.
I believe that life is about finding out about Purpose, right and wrong, trying and failing, winning and loosing. Failure, in a person’s life has become as abundant and necessary as air. But this should not hinder us from becoming genuinely joyful/happy.
How to be genuinely happy in spite of all these? I tell you… every time you exert effort to improve the quality of your life and your being, whether it is cleaning up your room, helping a friend, taking care of your sick dog, fail on board exams and trying again, life gives you equivalent points for that.
Imagine life as a big score board like those which are used in the NFLs. Every time you take a step forward, you make scoring points. Wouldn’t it be nice to look at that board at the end of each game and think to yourself “Whew! I got a point today. I’m glad I gave it a shot.”, instead of looking at it all blank and murmur “Geez, I didn’t even hit a score today. I wish I had the guts to try out. We could have won!” and then walk away.
I will conclude this discuss in my next post.
So, how does one become genuinely happy? Step 1 is to love yourself.
My theology professor once said that “loving means accepting.” To love oneself means, not only to accept that you are not a perfect being, but that in that imperfection lies some God-given abilities to make something good out of your life.
However, loving yourself and discovering those abilities are not always possible without a heartfelt relationship with Jesus. He made you, He knows you best and He put all those abilities in you in the first place. Who better to make you love yourself than the One that made you?
Genuine happiness also pertains to contentment. When you are contented with the job you have, the way you look, with your family, your friends, the place you live in, your car, and all the things you now have.
I believe that life is about finding out about Purpose, right and wrong, trying and failing, winning and loosing. Failure, in a person’s life has become as abundant and necessary as air. But this should not hinder us from becoming genuinely joyful/happy.
How to be genuinely happy in spite of all these? I tell you… every time you exert effort to improve the quality of your life and your being, whether it is cleaning up your room, helping a friend, taking care of your sick dog, fail on board exams and trying again, life gives you equivalent points for that.
Imagine life as a big score board like those which are used in the NFLs. Every time you take a step forward, you make scoring points. Wouldn’t it be nice to look at that board at the end of each game and think to yourself “Whew! I got a point today. I’m glad I gave it a shot.”, instead of looking at it all blank and murmur “Geez, I didn’t even hit a score today. I wish I had the guts to try out. We could have won!” and then walk away.
I will conclude this discuss in my next post.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Joyful as You Want to Be
Its been a long time since posted last, I mean like months!! You know, this wasn’t what I planned when I started blogging.
The truth is that I have had a very busy and hard year. Dealt with the death of my grandfather, several failed attempts at starting up another business and a couple of other things. All these got me side tracked and not to mention depressed and sometime discouraged.
But I have decided to not allow whatever has happened affect my blog any longer. I mean, after all the byline of my blog is DEALING WITH LIFE’S ISSUES. So I intend to share with you, my readers, all that I have learnt. I will do my best not to be absent for such a long time again.
And talking about my experiences, I have come to settle it that JOY/HAPPINESS is a decision!! Almost everyone have heard the hit single 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin. The song has a very catchy way of conveying its message of being happy to everyone. Bobby McFerrin’s simple message surely made a lot of people happy by telling them not to worry.
Living a happy, resilient and optimistic life is wonderful, and is also good for your health. Being happy actually protects you from the stresses of life. Stress is linked to top causes of death such as heart disease, cancer and stroke.
One of the better things ever said is - 'The only thing in life that will always remain the same is change', and in our life we have the power to make the necessary changes if we want to. Even if we find ourselves in an unbearable situation we can always find solace in the knowledge that it too would change. Joy/Happiness is not an external thing, it is internal. If you are not joyful inside, you cannot really be happy.
Any joy that is externally stimulated will never last because as soon as the source changes for whatever reason, you loose your joy. Joy that comes from inside lasts as it is not dependent on external stimuli. And this joy, the REAL and only true JOY comes only from a true relationship with Jesus Christ (John 15: 11). Social networks or relationships are also essential to happiness.
People are different, accept people for whom or what they are, avoid clashes, constant arguments, and let go of all kinds of resentments. If arguments seem unavoidable still try and make an effort to understand the situation and you might just get along well with them. Happiness is actually found in everyone, increasing it is a way to make your life more wonderful and also healthier. To be joyful is relatively easy; just decide to be a joyful person. Abraham Lincoln observed that most people for most of the time can choose how happy or stressed, how relaxed or troubled, how bright or dull their outlook will be. The choice is simple really, choose to be happy.
There are several ways by which you can do this.
Being grateful is a great attitude. We have so much to be thankful for. Thank the taxi driver for bringing you home safely, thank the cook for a wonderful dinner and thank the guy who cleans your windows. Also thank the mailman for bringing you your mails, thank the policeman for making your place safe and thank God for being alive ‘cos if you were not, all the others won’t matter.
News is stressful. Get less of it. Some people just can't start their day without their daily dose of news. Try and think about it, 99% of the news we hear or read is bad news. Starting the day with bad news does not seem to be a sensible thing to do.
A religious connection is also recommended. Being part of a religious group with its singing, sacraments, prayers and meditations foster inner peace.
Manage your time. Time is invaluable and too important to waste. Time management can be viewed as a list of rules that involves scheduling, setting goals, planning, creating lists of things to do 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.
Laugh and laugh heartily everyday. Heard a good joke? Tell your friends or family about it. As they also say -'Laughter is the best medicine'.
Express your feelings, affections, friendship and passion to people around you. They will most likely reciprocate your actions. Try not to keep pent up anger or frustrations, this is bad for your health. Instead find ways of expressing them in a way that will not cause more injury or hurt to anyone.
Working hard brings tremendous personal satisfaction. It gives a feeling of being competent in finishing our tasks. Accomplishments are necessary for all of us; they give us a sense of value. Work on things that you feel worthy of your time.
Learning is a joyful exercise. Try and learn something new everyday. Learning also makes us expand and broaden our horizons. And could also give us more opportunities in the future.
Run, jog, walk and do other things that your body was made for. Feel alive. Avoid exposure to negative elements like loud noises, toxins and hazardous places. These are the few simple things you can do everyday to be happy.
And always remember the quote from Abraham Lincoln, he says that, "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."
The truth is that I have had a very busy and hard year. Dealt with the death of my grandfather, several failed attempts at starting up another business and a couple of other things. All these got me side tracked and not to mention depressed and sometime discouraged.
But I have decided to not allow whatever has happened affect my blog any longer. I mean, after all the byline of my blog is DEALING WITH LIFE’S ISSUES. So I intend to share with you, my readers, all that I have learnt. I will do my best not to be absent for such a long time again.
And talking about my experiences, I have come to settle it that JOY/HAPPINESS is a decision!! Almost everyone have heard the hit single 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin. The song has a very catchy way of conveying its message of being happy to everyone. Bobby McFerrin’s simple message surely made a lot of people happy by telling them not to worry.
Living a happy, resilient and optimistic life is wonderful, and is also good for your health. Being happy actually protects you from the stresses of life. Stress is linked to top causes of death such as heart disease, cancer and stroke.
One of the better things ever said is - 'The only thing in life that will always remain the same is change', and in our life we have the power to make the necessary changes if we want to. Even if we find ourselves in an unbearable situation we can always find solace in the knowledge that it too would change. Joy/Happiness is not an external thing, it is internal. If you are not joyful inside, you cannot really be happy.
Any joy that is externally stimulated will never last because as soon as the source changes for whatever reason, you loose your joy. Joy that comes from inside lasts as it is not dependent on external stimuli. And this joy, the REAL and only true JOY comes only from a true relationship with Jesus Christ (John 15: 11). Social networks or relationships are also essential to happiness.
People are different, accept people for whom or what they are, avoid clashes, constant arguments, and let go of all kinds of resentments. If arguments seem unavoidable still try and make an effort to understand the situation and you might just get along well with them. Happiness is actually found in everyone, increasing it is a way to make your life more wonderful and also healthier. To be joyful is relatively easy; just decide to be a joyful person. Abraham Lincoln observed that most people for most of the time can choose how happy or stressed, how relaxed or troubled, how bright or dull their outlook will be. The choice is simple really, choose to be happy.
There are several ways by which you can do this.
Being grateful is a great attitude. We have so much to be thankful for. Thank the taxi driver for bringing you home safely, thank the cook for a wonderful dinner and thank the guy who cleans your windows. Also thank the mailman for bringing you your mails, thank the policeman for making your place safe and thank God for being alive ‘cos if you were not, all the others won’t matter.
News is stressful. Get less of it. Some people just can't start their day without their daily dose of news. Try and think about it, 99% of the news we hear or read is bad news. Starting the day with bad news does not seem to be a sensible thing to do.
A religious connection is also recommended. Being part of a religious group with its singing, sacraments, prayers and meditations foster inner peace.
Manage your time. Time is invaluable and too important to waste. Time management can be viewed as a list of rules that involves scheduling, setting goals, planning, creating lists of things to do 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.
Laugh and laugh heartily everyday. Heard a good joke? Tell your friends or family about it. As they also say -'Laughter is the best medicine'.
Express your feelings, affections, friendship and passion to people around you. They will most likely reciprocate your actions. Try not to keep pent up anger or frustrations, this is bad for your health. Instead find ways of expressing them in a way that will not cause more injury or hurt to anyone.
Working hard brings tremendous personal satisfaction. It gives a feeling of being competent in finishing our tasks. Accomplishments are necessary for all of us; they give us a sense of value. Work on things that you feel worthy of your time.
Learning is a joyful exercise. Try and learn something new everyday. Learning also makes us expand and broaden our horizons. And could also give us more opportunities in the future.
Run, jog, walk and do other things that your body was made for. Feel alive. Avoid exposure to negative elements like loud noises, toxins and hazardous places. These are the few simple things you can do everyday to be happy.
And always remember the quote from Abraham Lincoln, he says that, "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Some Home Truth 5
In article 3 I talked about acquiring a skill or developing your gift talent. I would like to dwell more on this. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to develop yourself. Investing in yourself ensures life long benefits.
One of the reasons this is important is the fact that you cannot give what you do not have, neither can you produce what you do not have the skill or training to produce. Everyday, in the course of our daily activities wherever they may be, we have the opportunity to impact lives, impact our environment and generally have a certain level of influence wherever we find ourselves.
Having invested a certain level of knowledge or training in yourself prepares you to better impact lives in a positive way that will be remembered. Moreover, I have come to know from personal experience that people will not mess around with you if they know that you know what you are doing or talking about.
Let me tell you a story. My wife before we were married had a tailoring workshop. She could not design a scarf much less sew one. So she employed tailors at a salary. You know what happened? I will tell you. They began to hold her to ransom, asking for thing or the other and subtly threatening to leave in the middle of a designing job when their requests are not met. All because they knew she couldn’t thread a needle. Sometimes the will up and go without warning. She lost some money as a result. Then she got her younger brother to take over the shop, and all the nonsense stopped. You know why, he knew how to sew!. Trouser, shirts, skirts, blouses, you name it he could sew them all!! Anyone that tried any thing was out before he could blink.
Beside the above, having a skill, developing your talent or gift by investing in you gives you a lot of confidence in yourself. You discover, as I am discovering, that you face life with a lot of vigor and are more aggressive in your pursuits. The future does not hold much fear for you anymore, you will no longer be held hostage by your job, afraid of what will happen if you loose it.
One of the reasons this is important is the fact that you cannot give what you do not have, neither can you produce what you do not have the skill or training to produce. Everyday, in the course of our daily activities wherever they may be, we have the opportunity to impact lives, impact our environment and generally have a certain level of influence wherever we find ourselves.
Having invested a certain level of knowledge or training in yourself prepares you to better impact lives in a positive way that will be remembered. Moreover, I have come to know from personal experience that people will not mess around with you if they know that you know what you are doing or talking about.
Let me tell you a story. My wife before we were married had a tailoring workshop. She could not design a scarf much less sew one. So she employed tailors at a salary. You know what happened? I will tell you. They began to hold her to ransom, asking for thing or the other and subtly threatening to leave in the middle of a designing job when their requests are not met. All because they knew she couldn’t thread a needle. Sometimes the will up and go without warning. She lost some money as a result. Then she got her younger brother to take over the shop, and all the nonsense stopped. You know why, he knew how to sew!. Trouser, shirts, skirts, blouses, you name it he could sew them all!! Anyone that tried any thing was out before he could blink.
Beside the above, having a skill, developing your talent or gift by investing in you gives you a lot of confidence in yourself. You discover, as I am discovering, that you face life with a lot of vigor and are more aggressive in your pursuits. The future does not hold much fear for you anymore, you will no longer be held hostage by your job, afraid of what will happen if you loose it.
SomeHomeTruth 4
If you have been following me on this journey, you will remember that I said that we should consider the opportunities we get as given by God for us to prepare for tomorrow. When I was working, my job was not a very time consuming one.
Initially it was, but as I settled down and was able to organize my activities, things were more or less running on their own. So I had a lot of time on my hands. But you know what, I did nothing with it. So I had the time to continue to pursue my passion if I had wanted. But I didn’t and I’m sure not finding it funny right now.
We do not know what tomorrow holds, we do not know the process or the way we may have to take to get to our destination. But we must prepare ourselves for the journey. We must see every opportunity every experience as part of the process of getting to our desired destination. I am learning not to be careless or frivolus with my time or the doors that open to me. I’m still searching for that job, but I’m also pusuing my passion. Who knows, may be I’m on my way to a career change.
If you are reading this, must have struck you about yourself. What are you doing with your spare time, the opportunities (both solicited and unsolicited) coming your way what are you doing with them. If you are in a paid job right now, what will happen to you if you loose that job. Do you have a fall-back plan or a skill that will continue to bring in income? These are hard questions you have to ask and answer yourself. In this age of the Internet, we are surrounded by opportunities.
Opportunities to acquire new skills and draw in extra income from our offices, if you can, or from our homes 24/7. and these include but are not necessarily limited to Internet marketing, affiliate marketing, blogging and the income opportunities it presents, etc.
Initially it was, but as I settled down and was able to organize my activities, things were more or less running on their own. So I had a lot of time on my hands. But you know what, I did nothing with it. So I had the time to continue to pursue my passion if I had wanted. But I didn’t and I’m sure not finding it funny right now.
We do not know what tomorrow holds, we do not know the process or the way we may have to take to get to our destination. But we must prepare ourselves for the journey. We must see every opportunity every experience as part of the process of getting to our desired destination. I am learning not to be careless or frivolus with my time or the doors that open to me. I’m still searching for that job, but I’m also pusuing my passion. Who knows, may be I’m on my way to a career change.
If you are reading this, must have struck you about yourself. What are you doing with your spare time, the opportunities (both solicited and unsolicited) coming your way what are you doing with them. If you are in a paid job right now, what will happen to you if you loose that job. Do you have a fall-back plan or a skill that will continue to bring in income? These are hard questions you have to ask and answer yourself. In this age of the Internet, we are surrounded by opportunities.
Opportunities to acquire new skills and draw in extra income from our offices, if you can, or from our homes 24/7. and these include but are not necessarily limited to Internet marketing, affiliate marketing, blogging and the income opportunities it presents, etc.
Some Home Truths 3
Website designing is my passion right now. There are a lot of already-made web designing softwares around that you do not need to learn HTML.
This of course sounds good and could save me a lot of time and energy. But then it is also true that many of these softwares are limited in there use. Considering their limitations, what if I want to do something really revolutionary with a website, how am I going to do that without a good knowledge of HTML? In fact you need to have a rudimentary Knowledge of HTML to use these softwares effectively.
That is why I’m going to take my time to learn it. Moreover I’ve not seen or heard of a good Webmaster that does not know his HTML. However, in life what you want usually determines how you get it.
There's more, look-out!!
This of course sounds good and could save me a lot of time and energy. But then it is also true that many of these softwares are limited in there use. Considering their limitations, what if I want to do something really revolutionary with a website, how am I going to do that without a good knowledge of HTML? In fact you need to have a rudimentary Knowledge of HTML to use these softwares effectively.
That is why I’m going to take my time to learn it. Moreover I’ve not seen or heard of a good Webmaster that does not know his HTML. However, in life what you want usually determines how you get it.
There's more, look-out!!
Some Home Truths 2
Hi there! Earlier, I was talking about utilizing every opportunity maximally. When we are young or stepping out in life, we tend to believe that life is one long list of opportunities after another. In fact it is, but only if we utilize them properly
Yesterday I talked about my early IT experience and how I bungled it. Now, if I had taken advantage of that opportunity, today I would have become very proficient in the IT sector, and this would naturally have opened all kinds of doors as the computer age caught on, the advent of the Internet would have enlarged that door and consequently, I would have become a success in this field, and if I wanted I could have had my pick of any paid job. But I did not have the foresight to see the opportunity I had been presented with, therefore I missed it.
If you are out there and this looks like your story, you can do something about it. First, acquire a skill that nothing can take from you. Be it in your line of business or not but learn something new (the better if it is something you love that can translate to cash) that can give you independence tomorrow. Let it be a skill that you will not need to depend on somebody else to get off the ground. You may be asking yourself why you should do that when you can always OUTSOURCE. Outsourcing is good for somebody who already has it going but had to outsource for financial or time reasons. But if you have ever had an idea and tried to pass it on to somebody else to produce and known how frustrating it can be, you will understand the need to KNOW, in a practical way what you desire to do.
Watch out for more on this!
Yesterday I talked about my early IT experience and how I bungled it. Now, if I had taken advantage of that opportunity, today I would have become very proficient in the IT sector, and this would naturally have opened all kinds of doors as the computer age caught on, the advent of the Internet would have enlarged that door and consequently, I would have become a success in this field, and if I wanted I could have had my pick of any paid job. But I did not have the foresight to see the opportunity I had been presented with, therefore I missed it.
If you are out there and this looks like your story, you can do something about it. First, acquire a skill that nothing can take from you. Be it in your line of business or not but learn something new (the better if it is something you love that can translate to cash) that can give you independence tomorrow. Let it be a skill that you will not need to depend on somebody else to get off the ground. You may be asking yourself why you should do that when you can always OUTSOURCE. Outsourcing is good for somebody who already has it going but had to outsource for financial or time reasons. But if you have ever had an idea and tried to pass it on to somebody else to produce and known how frustrating it can be, you will understand the need to KNOW, in a practical way what you desire to do.
Watch out for more on this!
Friday, May 18, 2007
Some Home Truths 1
I'm sorry I have not made any entries for quite a while. It's just that I have been doing alot of reflection on my current situation. all that has changed however as I will make regular posts from now on.
I discovered blogging after I lost my job and decided to start doing it. As is to be expected, it’s not been easy since. I’ve done a lot of odd jobs, trusting God for that ideal job.
I am a 1995 graduate of history with over 5 (five) years post graduation experience in Human resources management, Logistics/Protocol and safety in the Oil industry.
As I said earlier, I have done a lot of odd jobs over the last couple of years, including, taxi driving, Book selling, general supplies etc. As the years have gone by, I have come to learn quite a few lessons about LIFE. I’ve come to learn most of all that every opportunity that we get in life must be maximally utilized, I’ve also come to that every opportunity is a chance given by God for us to prepare for tomorrow.
It is foolishness to take things for granted; that you are on this side of the divide today does not mean you may not be on the other side tomorrow. And the best lesson I have learned is the importance of having a practical skill, it could be a talent or gift, but something you can always fall back on, that can put food on the table and money in your pocket.
When I graduated from the university in 1995, the computer/IT sector was still in its infancy. I teamed up with two other friends to form a company that will deal in computer/IT and electronics. I had the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skill that would have set me up for life. But instead I left to secure a paid job. My friends continued and today they have developed fine IT skills and training, are in fantastic jobs and have their business running on the side. Talk about having the better of two worlds!!
What about me? It has taken my present situation to help me realize that I still have a passion for computers/IT and everything related to them. Therefore I’ve decided to go back. I will continue to search for a paid job, but I will never repeat the mistake of the past by abandoning my passion.
As I go back, I’m almost overwhelmed by the progress/advancement that the sector has made. So many sub-sectors have sprung up, including the INTERNET and all the opportunities it presents, website designing, Internet marketing, Software designing, etc.
However, I have made up my mind to utilize the time I have now to improve myself. (Not having a job is an opportunity itself).
I discovered blogging after I lost my job and decided to start doing it. As is to be expected, it’s not been easy since. I’ve done a lot of odd jobs, trusting God for that ideal job.
I am a 1995 graduate of history with over 5 (five) years post graduation experience in Human resources management, Logistics/Protocol and safety in the Oil industry.
As I said earlier, I have done a lot of odd jobs over the last couple of years, including, taxi driving, Book selling, general supplies etc. As the years have gone by, I have come to learn quite a few lessons about LIFE. I’ve come to learn most of all that every opportunity that we get in life must be maximally utilized, I’ve also come to that every opportunity is a chance given by God for us to prepare for tomorrow.
It is foolishness to take things for granted; that you are on this side of the divide today does not mean you may not be on the other side tomorrow. And the best lesson I have learned is the importance of having a practical skill, it could be a talent or gift, but something you can always fall back on, that can put food on the table and money in your pocket.
When I graduated from the university in 1995, the computer/IT sector was still in its infancy. I teamed up with two other friends to form a company that will deal in computer/IT and electronics. I had the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skill that would have set me up for life. But instead I left to secure a paid job. My friends continued and today they have developed fine IT skills and training, are in fantastic jobs and have their business running on the side. Talk about having the better of two worlds!!
What about me? It has taken my present situation to help me realize that I still have a passion for computers/IT and everything related to them. Therefore I’ve decided to go back. I will continue to search for a paid job, but I will never repeat the mistake of the past by abandoning my passion.
As I go back, I’m almost overwhelmed by the progress/advancement that the sector has made. So many sub-sectors have sprung up, including the INTERNET and all the opportunities it presents, website designing, Internet marketing, Software designing, etc.
However, I have made up my mind to utilize the time I have now to improve myself. (Not having a job is an opportunity itself).
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Who Reads More?
Last time I was talking about my car that knocked. I can't let it be groundedbecause I need it to reach out tomy custommers.
Right now, I've got these wonderful books,actually best seller novels, that I'm selling. Novels from authors like John Grisham, Tom Clancy, Stephen King, James Patterson etc.
They are realy selling though I'm being tempted to keep some for myself. I'm reading Tom Clancy's Red Storm Rising and I must say it's quite a thriller.
This brings me to what I have observed in the course of my sales. How come ladies are buying more books than guys. Does it mean they read more than men? I mean guys come over, admire the books and move on. But ladies, they ooooh and aaaah over them and then buy a couple of them.
Anybody out there have any explanation for this? i would love your comments.
Chuks
Right now, I've got these wonderful books,actually best seller novels, that I'm selling. Novels from authors like John Grisham, Tom Clancy, Stephen King, James Patterson etc.
They are realy selling though I'm being tempted to keep some for myself. I'm reading Tom Clancy's Red Storm Rising and I must say it's quite a thriller.
This brings me to what I have observed in the course of my sales. How come ladies are buying more books than guys. Does it mean they read more than men? I mean guys come over, admire the books and move on. But ladies, they ooooh and aaaah over them and then buy a couple of them.
Anybody out there have any explanation for this? i would love your comments.
Chuks
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
I Have To Fix It!
With so much to write about, where do i start? This is funny because i actually had something to write about, but yesterday i went to see my parents -in-law and had this problem with my car.
I was just driving along and every thing was ok until suddenly there was this knocking sound coming from under the bonnet(hood).
I came back alright from the trip and a visit to my mechanic confirmed my fears. The engine of my car had (as we say over here) knocked.
Getting the car fixed is going to involve some serious unanticipated expenses. Well i'm going to have to raise the cash somehow as i CAN'T imagine being grounded.
i will explain what i mean later.
I was just driving along and every thing was ok until suddenly there was this knocking sound coming from under the bonnet(hood).
I came back alright from the trip and a visit to my mechanic confirmed my fears. The engine of my car had (as we say over here) knocked.
Getting the car fixed is going to involve some serious unanticipated expenses. Well i'm going to have to raise the cash somehow as i CAN'T imagine being grounded.
i will explain what i mean later.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Finally!!
Finally i'm on blogger! i've wanted to for quite some time as i'd always wnated to have this kind of presence on the net.
I ask myself, why did it take me so long? i mean blogging has been around for a while now, so also has blogger.
i discovered that my entrance at this time has to do with my nack for knowing what i'm getting into, even if it's for fun.
now that i'm in, i have every intention of enjoying myself. i have alot to write about and hopefully, i will be able to get them all out.
I ask myself, why did it take me so long? i mean blogging has been around for a while now, so also has blogger.
i discovered that my entrance at this time has to do with my nack for knowing what i'm getting into, even if it's for fun.
now that i'm in, i have every intention of enjoying myself. i have alot to write about and hopefully, i will be able to get them all out.
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