I started my new position yesterday. What an exciting moment! It's one of those times when the world seems to be wide open and you can step out and conquer it. That is, of course, as long as your van starts, and you can be entered into the system, and there's a wireless connection so your paperwork can be completed...
I was supposed to take my company vehicle yesterday but it wouldn't start. Also, it was leaking gas, lots of it, so I'm kind of glad it didn't start. Who knows? It was one of those days where everything that could have gone wrong, did. And you know what? I couldn't be happier.
My boss kept apologizing; I kept telling her not to worry, that this was a good omen, that all it meant was that great things were heading our way. Nothing as simple as a car not starting was going to ruin my first day at a great new company. She laughed at how I kept smiling. The truth is that I was happy. I felt no anger or disappointment. I have learned that these things are part of God's plan. I wasn't meant to go out today. Now, my van will be fixed up, the oil changed, tires rotated, new car smell re-introduced (okay, that was a stretch, it's pretty new already.)
It's been a recurring theme throughout this blog: don't let the little things steal your joy. I could have looked at this situation and told myself that I'd made a bad choice, that this was a disaster, that I should cut my losses and run, or, I could have simply let it sour my mood. No, instead, I decided to laugh about it, knowing one day, I'll write it all down, every detail, in a memoir of how the toughest year of my life was also the best year of my life, and how the rest and best of my life started on a day when everything seemed to go wrong.
Today, laugh at the little things. Learn not to worry about things that don't matter in the big picture. Develop a sense of perspective and accept that things happen for a reason and that while not all things may seem good, all things come together for good if you believe.
God bless you. Make it the best day yet.
- Adolfo
Showing posts with label Motivation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motivation. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Day # 187 - Know Your Value
I witnessed something yesterday that left me feeling a little sick to my stomach. I can't go into too many details, but I want to share the lesson with you: know your value, your worth. Women, especially, should know their worth and see themselves as complete human beings, not T & A.
In a world that has become increasingly superficial, where pornography has become mainstream and thought is not so much outlawed (yet) as out of fashion, it's more important than ever to know your value and to instill a sense of value in your children. We have been trained to believe that if you're not famous, you're worthless. At the same time, we have blurred the line between fame and infamy. It doesn't matter what you're doing, as long as lots of people see you doing it.
I hate to continue on the TV rant, but because it is primarily a visual medium, the greater emphasis is on being seen, not heard or worth hearing, further encouraging the intellectual laziness that is railroading us toward becoming property of China. I have nothing against the Chinese, but I am not interested in becoming one of them.
America is in decline and that decline begins at home, just as this much-needed revolution must. Generations of Americans living in poverty, living for the momentary pleasures of parties and gadgets with no thought to the future and a blindness to the need to improve, and a political system that benefits from their suffering. Those in the middle are content to spend all their money plus what they can borrow to have hi-def, hi-fi, and high performance, but not a thought to the future. People are determining their worth by the stuff they have, the clothes they wear, the cars they drive. If your value is determined by things that can be taken away, it isn't really value, is it? It's just crap.
Value yourself. Respect yourself. Earn the respect of others by being a person worthy of respect. Look within for your value, count your blessings, knowing that blessings rarely come with a receipt or a money-back guarantee. Become a person of value and set the example for your children or for other young people - or just do it because you should. You are created in the image of God, your value has been determined by a much more credible source.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
In a world that has become increasingly superficial, where pornography has become mainstream and thought is not so much outlawed (yet) as out of fashion, it's more important than ever to know your value and to instill a sense of value in your children. We have been trained to believe that if you're not famous, you're worthless. At the same time, we have blurred the line between fame and infamy. It doesn't matter what you're doing, as long as lots of people see you doing it.
I hate to continue on the TV rant, but because it is primarily a visual medium, the greater emphasis is on being seen, not heard or worth hearing, further encouraging the intellectual laziness that is railroading us toward becoming property of China. I have nothing against the Chinese, but I am not interested in becoming one of them.
America is in decline and that decline begins at home, just as this much-needed revolution must. Generations of Americans living in poverty, living for the momentary pleasures of parties and gadgets with no thought to the future and a blindness to the need to improve, and a political system that benefits from their suffering. Those in the middle are content to spend all their money plus what they can borrow to have hi-def, hi-fi, and high performance, but not a thought to the future. People are determining their worth by the stuff they have, the clothes they wear, the cars they drive. If your value is determined by things that can be taken away, it isn't really value, is it? It's just crap.
Value yourself. Respect yourself. Earn the respect of others by being a person worthy of respect. Look within for your value, count your blessings, knowing that blessings rarely come with a receipt or a money-back guarantee. Become a person of value and set the example for your children or for other young people - or just do it because you should. You are created in the image of God, your value has been determined by a much more credible source.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Day 166 - From Ambition to Meaning
Wayne Dyer calls it "The Shift," the time in your life when your focus shifts from ambition to meaning. It's a revelation of sorts. You stop caring so much about what you can have and start caring more about what you can give.
Of course, I still have ambition. I want to be great at what I do. I want to earn a living and my family will endure no hardship because of my shift. On the contrary, the more I focus on the welfare of others, the more God will bless my family. I have seen this working in my life and it will continue working in my life. The question now is one of degrees.
I don't care for the toys. I never really have, but I care less than ever. I don't want the nice cars, the boat, the summer home. None of it holds my interest anymore. I still want to see the world and have a nice dinner now and then, but I'll see it in my little car. Hold the Cadillac.
Abby and I sat up late last night talking and we both agreed: we've reached a point in our life where the only motivation to make lots of money is to give lots of money away. We aren't ready to give too much away yet, but we are working on it. We are getting our house in order so that it may serve the Lord, and all of humanity. Our legacy need not be an inheritance of money. Our legacy will be one of character. Our children will be able to say their parents made a difference.
Have you found your meaning? Have you decided what you will do to make the world better? I know you say you want to make the world a better place; everyone does. What everyone doesn't do is get to the business of doing it. Choose your passion and give a little bit of yourself or a little bit of your money to it. I am not talking about contributions to politicians if you have a passion for politics. In this area, I would recommend giving your time in order to build your sphere of influence. Volunteer to help kids learn to read. Sponsor a little league team, or coach one. Counsel teenage moms. Lock yourself in your room and pray.
The world needs you and your talents and your dreams. Don't let them go to waste. The time to start is now.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Of course, I still have ambition. I want to be great at what I do. I want to earn a living and my family will endure no hardship because of my shift. On the contrary, the more I focus on the welfare of others, the more God will bless my family. I have seen this working in my life and it will continue working in my life. The question now is one of degrees.
I don't care for the toys. I never really have, but I care less than ever. I don't want the nice cars, the boat, the summer home. None of it holds my interest anymore. I still want to see the world and have a nice dinner now and then, but I'll see it in my little car. Hold the Cadillac.
Abby and I sat up late last night talking and we both agreed: we've reached a point in our life where the only motivation to make lots of money is to give lots of money away. We aren't ready to give too much away yet, but we are working on it. We are getting our house in order so that it may serve the Lord, and all of humanity. Our legacy need not be an inheritance of money. Our legacy will be one of character. Our children will be able to say their parents made a difference.
Have you found your meaning? Have you decided what you will do to make the world better? I know you say you want to make the world a better place; everyone does. What everyone doesn't do is get to the business of doing it. Choose your passion and give a little bit of yourself or a little bit of your money to it. I am not talking about contributions to politicians if you have a passion for politics. In this area, I would recommend giving your time in order to build your sphere of influence. Volunteer to help kids learn to read. Sponsor a little league team, or coach one. Counsel teenage moms. Lock yourself in your room and pray.
The world needs you and your talents and your dreams. Don't let them go to waste. The time to start is now.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Day # 164 - Confessions of a Dangerous Banker
The Great Recession has affected my family like it has affected most families. I lost my job, my business went down the tubes and my lifestyle has changed. Yet, I am happier than I have been in a long time. While I make and spend less money, I have found ways to experience life in a more positive, fulfilling way.
I was thinking about my years as a banker and financial advisor and the lies I told people during that time. Mostly, I was saying what I was trained to say. I was ignorant of the truth. This is not an excuse. It's inexcusable to knowingly give destructive advice and it's inexcusable to regurgitate information, even if it comes from your boss, without verifying it first.
For years, I told people not to pay off their mortgage. I convinced them they were better off investing the money with me and keeping the tax benefits of the mortgage (interest deduction.) Now I know better. The amount of interest the average person pays in a year is enormous compared to the tax benefits. It makes no sense in most cases to stay in debt.
I sold debt as a good thing, convincing people they should take out equity lines and loans and credit cards. There is nothing good about this. When your banker tells you to get an equity loan for emergencies, beware. Their intentions may be pure, but will you have the discipline to really use it only for emergencies?
I tried to convince people that it was always their fault when they overdrew their account. Truthfully, if you overdraw your account, it is your fault - with the exception of fraud or the rare bank error. However, banks stack incoming items largest to smallest regardless of the time they came in. Why? If you have $1,000 in your checking account and seven items come in totaling $,1079.00 in ascending order (smallest to largest) by paying the largest item (let's say $900) first, the bank will clock you for 5 or 6 overdraft fees. If they let them post in order of arrival, with the large one being last, they can only hit you once. It's disgusting. I was one of the space monkeys convincing people this was done for their own good because larger items are typically more important (rent, health insurance, car payments, etc.)
Of course, you are ultimately responsible and should have enough money to cover your bills.
Don't ask me which bank I worked for, it doesn't matter. They're all about the same.
If you decide to work with a financial advisor, ask for his credentials. Licensing means nothing, you need to know what his experience is. Most of these guys are just good salesmen. Do your homework and ask tough questions. You may be better off doing your own investments with the help of your CPA. I knew one "top producer" who had previously been a waiter at Denny's. I don't mean to make ends meet while earning his MBA, I mean he was a waiter! And now he was offering "sound" financial advice. What he really was was a commission hound slashing and burning his way through his prospects.
You must make the time to watch your money. You must make a budget. You must balance your checkbook. You must put money away for retirement. You must save for your children's college. You must get out of debt. These things are simple, but not easy.
You wouldn't take medical advice from a waiter at Denny's would you? Of course not! Do you really think financial advice is different?
Go to daveramsey.com and see about getting into Financial Peace University. It's a great way to learn about money management.
More than half of divorces are on account of money. Mine was. I don't wish divorce on anyone. Especially over something as common as money.
You do have the time for this. You can learn these things. Shut off the TV and get serious about it. Social Security will not be around much longer and do you really want to spend your retirement clearing trays at McDonalds? Didn't think so!
God bless you and your finances. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
I was thinking about my years as a banker and financial advisor and the lies I told people during that time. Mostly, I was saying what I was trained to say. I was ignorant of the truth. This is not an excuse. It's inexcusable to knowingly give destructive advice and it's inexcusable to regurgitate information, even if it comes from your boss, without verifying it first.
For years, I told people not to pay off their mortgage. I convinced them they were better off investing the money with me and keeping the tax benefits of the mortgage (interest deduction.) Now I know better. The amount of interest the average person pays in a year is enormous compared to the tax benefits. It makes no sense in most cases to stay in debt.
I sold debt as a good thing, convincing people they should take out equity lines and loans and credit cards. There is nothing good about this. When your banker tells you to get an equity loan for emergencies, beware. Their intentions may be pure, but will you have the discipline to really use it only for emergencies?
I tried to convince people that it was always their fault when they overdrew their account. Truthfully, if you overdraw your account, it is your fault - with the exception of fraud or the rare bank error. However, banks stack incoming items largest to smallest regardless of the time they came in. Why? If you have $1,000 in your checking account and seven items come in totaling $,1079.00 in ascending order (smallest to largest) by paying the largest item (let's say $900) first, the bank will clock you for 5 or 6 overdraft fees. If they let them post in order of arrival, with the large one being last, they can only hit you once. It's disgusting. I was one of the space monkeys convincing people this was done for their own good because larger items are typically more important (rent, health insurance, car payments, etc.)
Of course, you are ultimately responsible and should have enough money to cover your bills.
Don't ask me which bank I worked for, it doesn't matter. They're all about the same.
If you decide to work with a financial advisor, ask for his credentials. Licensing means nothing, you need to know what his experience is. Most of these guys are just good salesmen. Do your homework and ask tough questions. You may be better off doing your own investments with the help of your CPA. I knew one "top producer" who had previously been a waiter at Denny's. I don't mean to make ends meet while earning his MBA, I mean he was a waiter! And now he was offering "sound" financial advice. What he really was was a commission hound slashing and burning his way through his prospects.
You must make the time to watch your money. You must make a budget. You must balance your checkbook. You must put money away for retirement. You must save for your children's college. You must get out of debt. These things are simple, but not easy.
You wouldn't take medical advice from a waiter at Denny's would you? Of course not! Do you really think financial advice is different?
Go to daveramsey.com and see about getting into Financial Peace University. It's a great way to learn about money management.
More than half of divorces are on account of money. Mine was. I don't wish divorce on anyone. Especially over something as common as money.
You do have the time for this. You can learn these things. Shut off the TV and get serious about it. Social Security will not be around much longer and do you really want to spend your retirement clearing trays at McDonalds? Didn't think so!
God bless you and your finances. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Day # 156 - Willingness
I’ve written on willingness before. The willingness to do whatever is necessary to achieve a goal will almost always ensure you don’t have to do everything necessary to achieve it. I work seven days a week. I have a full time job, run a small business, a large family, church, and I write this column, which may be the most challenging part of it all.
I am 39 years old and I have a great life. In many aspects, my life has been more successful than I could have expected, but I want more. I want meaning, as well as success. Sure, I want to make money and have nice stuff and security for my family, but that’s just not enough for me. If money was my only motivation, would I be writing this column? I don’t make money from it. It might pay off some day, but I would still do it even if I was sure it wouldn’t. Why? Because it is an exercise of will. I promised myself, and you, that I would spend a year without news and blog about the experience. The problem with that is that I don’t know how to write about what I am not doing. So, I write about my life and how this change is affecting me.
I recently killed my TV, which has given me more time to read. I’ve always been a reader, but now I can really tear through books. It’s amazing how you see the truth when you cut out the noise. I wasn’t a reader like I thought I was, like I wanted to be. I had to cut out the unproductive habit of watching news and noise to really kick my reading into overdrive. I had to be willing to make a radical change.
This is not to say I am no longer a hardcore capitalist. I am; to my very soul. I do not believe anything that I did not believe before beginning this project. My beliefs are the same. They are just more focused, more clearly defined; therefore they will better serve me.
You can accomplish anything, if you are willing to do whatever is necessary to reach your goal. You must be willing to change yourself, your situation, your life, and, especially your habits. Nothing is impossible unless you label it as such. Be willing to let go of those destructive little comforts, like complaining about every little inconvenience, like a line at Starbucks, or having to stop and gas up the car when you’re running late, or traffic, or filing, or whatever. There are things we all must do. Accept them and don’t give them any more mind than necessary. You must be willing to let go of the little attention-grabbing things. Let go of negative friends. Be willing to ignore the gossip and office chatter and instead, focus on your work – and then you’ll earn the promotion. Be willing to skip dessert – and then you’ll lose your love handles. Be willing to go through the pain of budgeting your money – and then you’ll stop worrying about paying the bills and saving for the future.
It all starts with willingness. Do you have the will? If you don’t, you have nothing.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
I am 39 years old and I have a great life. In many aspects, my life has been more successful than I could have expected, but I want more. I want meaning, as well as success. Sure, I want to make money and have nice stuff and security for my family, but that’s just not enough for me. If money was my only motivation, would I be writing this column? I don’t make money from it. It might pay off some day, but I would still do it even if I was sure it wouldn’t. Why? Because it is an exercise of will. I promised myself, and you, that I would spend a year without news and blog about the experience. The problem with that is that I don’t know how to write about what I am not doing. So, I write about my life and how this change is affecting me.
I recently killed my TV, which has given me more time to read. I’ve always been a reader, but now I can really tear through books. It’s amazing how you see the truth when you cut out the noise. I wasn’t a reader like I thought I was, like I wanted to be. I had to cut out the unproductive habit of watching news and noise to really kick my reading into overdrive. I had to be willing to make a radical change.
This is not to say I am no longer a hardcore capitalist. I am; to my very soul. I do not believe anything that I did not believe before beginning this project. My beliefs are the same. They are just more focused, more clearly defined; therefore they will better serve me.
You can accomplish anything, if you are willing to do whatever is necessary to reach your goal. You must be willing to change yourself, your situation, your life, and, especially your habits. Nothing is impossible unless you label it as such. Be willing to let go of those destructive little comforts, like complaining about every little inconvenience, like a line at Starbucks, or having to stop and gas up the car when you’re running late, or traffic, or filing, or whatever. There are things we all must do. Accept them and don’t give them any more mind than necessary. You must be willing to let go of the little attention-grabbing things. Let go of negative friends. Be willing to ignore the gossip and office chatter and instead, focus on your work – and then you’ll earn the promotion. Be willing to skip dessert – and then you’ll lose your love handles. Be willing to go through the pain of budgeting your money – and then you’ll stop worrying about paying the bills and saving for the future.
It all starts with willingness. Do you have the will? If you don’t, you have nothing.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Day # 140 - Quiet Time
Are you awakened by an alarm clock? Or are you one of those people like myself, who wake up early even when you would rather be asleep? I am sitting down to write at 5:30 but I have been up since before 5:00. Some people think it's nuts to wake up this early unless you have a flight to catch or there's a drill sergeant in your face.
I had lunch with my son earlier this week and he asked me about writing. It seems he is developing the desire to write, but can't figure out when. I know he is like me in that his sleep patterns are erratic, so I told him to take advantage of the small hours. There's a lot to be said for working early in the morning when all you hear is the ticking of the clock and the settling of the house. At this time in the morning, nothing has happened to ruin your day or cloud your thoughts. Your mind is as clear as it will be all day.
Back when I was writing novels and screenplays, I would wake up early, write for an hour or two, and then get ready for work. This was ideal because I could go to bed each night knowing I'd done my writing, and there were never any ideas nagging me throughout the day. There was never the feeling of not having done what I should have done. Only the peace that one gets from accomplishing the task at hand.
Since I've been writing this column, I have almost always written before doing anything else. As time is progressing, I am becoming more disciplined about it, even ignoring the desire to check my emails until later on, after I'm done. In fact, my phone chimed before I started. A month ago, I would have stopped to check the message, today, I walked away. There is little chance of it being something incredibly important or time sensitive, and as my sister used to say, "if it's an emergency, they'll call 911."
The lesson is to embrace the silence. There will be plenty of time all day for noise. I am not speaking specifically about writing. Use the small hours to read, pray, meditate, write to loved ones, reflect, whatever. Don't curse the fact that you are awake, if you are, embrace it. Know that it is God waking you up, not your problems. Still your mind and listen. Rumi said, "the morning breeze has secrets to tell you, do not go back to sleep."
God bless you. Make it a great, productive day.
- Adolfo
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.adolfojimenez.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
I had lunch with my son earlier this week and he asked me about writing. It seems he is developing the desire to write, but can't figure out when. I know he is like me in that his sleep patterns are erratic, so I told him to take advantage of the small hours. There's a lot to be said for working early in the morning when all you hear is the ticking of the clock and the settling of the house. At this time in the morning, nothing has happened to ruin your day or cloud your thoughts. Your mind is as clear as it will be all day.
Back when I was writing novels and screenplays, I would wake up early, write for an hour or two, and then get ready for work. This was ideal because I could go to bed each night knowing I'd done my writing, and there were never any ideas nagging me throughout the day. There was never the feeling of not having done what I should have done. Only the peace that one gets from accomplishing the task at hand.
Since I've been writing this column, I have almost always written before doing anything else. As time is progressing, I am becoming more disciplined about it, even ignoring the desire to check my emails until later on, after I'm done. In fact, my phone chimed before I started. A month ago, I would have stopped to check the message, today, I walked away. There is little chance of it being something incredibly important or time sensitive, and as my sister used to say, "if it's an emergency, they'll call 911."
The lesson is to embrace the silence. There will be plenty of time all day for noise. I am not speaking specifically about writing. Use the small hours to read, pray, meditate, write to loved ones, reflect, whatever. Don't curse the fact that you are awake, if you are, embrace it. Know that it is God waking you up, not your problems. Still your mind and listen. Rumi said, "the morning breeze has secrets to tell you, do not go back to sleep."
God bless you. Make it a great, productive day.
- Adolfo
http://www.cakewhimsybyabdaliz.com
http://www.adolfojimenez.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Friday, October 1, 2010
Day # 127 - Taming the Wild Bureaucrats
The last couple of days I have focused on happiness. It is the main reason why I am writing this blog and it's the aim in our lives. Think of anything you want, a spouse, a dog, a million bucks, and you'll see the reason you want those things is for happiness. We each define our own happiness, but I can tell you without a doubt that if we can't control the little things, the big things mean absolutely nothing.
I was in Downtown Miami yesterday in court, taking care of a small, but fairly significant legal issue. I don't like the government, I dislike bureaucracy and I hate intentional inefficiency. These things are part of my nature. I can't help it. I went to the government office on Wednesday to start this process. Due to the rain, it took me two hours to get there. I made the most of the time, making phone calls to clients and listening to positive books on CD.
I felt like the devil himself was trying to turn me back. I even made a wrong turn on the way. I thought of leaving it for another day, but decided it was too important. The lady who helped me was so extremely helpful, I thought I was checking in to a 5-Star hotel. She gave me all the documents I needed, instructions, and even found me an appointment for the next day, when most times you have to wait a month to be helped.
I returned and was helped by another charming lady, who was extremely patient in helping me fill out the forms and getting them in order. Problem essentially solved. Bureaucracy tamed!
Why do I tell you this? Because I believe this went as smoothly as it did because I walked in with a smile and a positive expectation. I told myself this was going to be a pleasant experience. I got what I expected. If I had gone in there expecting it to be bad, it would have been. In fact, I would probably still be sitting in an uncomfortable chair waiting for my name to be called.
If this can work with the government, it can work with anything. Go in with the right mindset and you can do anything - and more pleasantly. Raise your expectations. Smile and choose happiness. Take a book wherever you go so the wait is not so unbearable and the time is used intelligently. I was shocked (eh not so much) that no one else in that waiting room had a book. There were plenty of people playing games on their cell phones, or chatting, complaining about the slow service, but no one was taking advantage of the time to enrich their lives.
Which one of those people are you? Are you the one with the book? Are you the one with the phone? Are you the one complaining to the person next to you?
Simply put: are you happy or unhappy?
Make the better choice.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
-Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
I was in Downtown Miami yesterday in court, taking care of a small, but fairly significant legal issue. I don't like the government, I dislike bureaucracy and I hate intentional inefficiency. These things are part of my nature. I can't help it. I went to the government office on Wednesday to start this process. Due to the rain, it took me two hours to get there. I made the most of the time, making phone calls to clients and listening to positive books on CD.
I felt like the devil himself was trying to turn me back. I even made a wrong turn on the way. I thought of leaving it for another day, but decided it was too important. The lady who helped me was so extremely helpful, I thought I was checking in to a 5-Star hotel. She gave me all the documents I needed, instructions, and even found me an appointment for the next day, when most times you have to wait a month to be helped.
I returned and was helped by another charming lady, who was extremely patient in helping me fill out the forms and getting them in order. Problem essentially solved. Bureaucracy tamed!
Why do I tell you this? Because I believe this went as smoothly as it did because I walked in with a smile and a positive expectation. I told myself this was going to be a pleasant experience. I got what I expected. If I had gone in there expecting it to be bad, it would have been. In fact, I would probably still be sitting in an uncomfortable chair waiting for my name to be called.
If this can work with the government, it can work with anything. Go in with the right mindset and you can do anything - and more pleasantly. Raise your expectations. Smile and choose happiness. Take a book wherever you go so the wait is not so unbearable and the time is used intelligently. I was shocked (eh not so much) that no one else in that waiting room had a book. There were plenty of people playing games on their cell phones, or chatting, complaining about the slow service, but no one was taking advantage of the time to enrich their lives.
Which one of those people are you? Are you the one with the book? Are you the one with the phone? Are you the one complaining to the person next to you?
Simply put: are you happy or unhappy?
Make the better choice.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
-Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Thursday, September 30, 2010
# 126 - Programming Happiness
What time do you wake up in the morning? Do you sleep until the last possible moment before getting up rushing through a shower, getting dressed, getting the kids ready, and all the rest? Or do you wake up early enough to have time to really prepare yourself for a successful day?
Some people call me a freak because I am usually awake before 5:00AM and I do it without an alarm clock. On Saturday and Sunday, I sleep in, waking up around 6:00 or 6:30. Don't get me wrong, I have overslept on occasion but I can oversleep and still wake up before most people.
Why have we placed such a high premium on sleep? Is it tiredness or is it laziness. We're told to get 8 hours a night. I haven't had 8 hours since I was in grade school and I am not suffering for it. It's how my body is wired and I'm okay with it. Rising early provides "Me" time and productivity time.
My routine goes like this: I wake up on my own and I can usually tell, to within ten minutes, what time it is. Today is one of those days where it was earlier than I thought. I only know this because the computer tells me so.
I lay in bed for about 15-30 minutes. I have always let me thoughts wander during this time, but I have come to the realization that this is destructive so I now guide my thoughts. I guide them toward thoughts of happiness, fulfillment, success, and love. When my mind wanders in a direction I'd rather not go, I reel it back in, and begin the process again. I imagine my day going smoothly. I see myself having a successful day at work. I think about this blog.
This blog had become a source of stress for me. The thought of writing day after day had become a challenge. I changed my approach. I know I am going to write, I know the words will flow, and all I need to think about at that point is what thoughts I will be sharing with you.
Waking up and giving myself this time also relieves the stress of hurrying and gives me time to start missing my children. I think about waking them up and laying out their uniforms. I think about them brushing their teeth and putting on their uniforms. I get to appreciate them for the miracles they are. Why do I want to miss them? It helps me appreciate them.
I think about my sons, who live on their own, and I wonder how their morning will go. I send them love and blessings and positive thoughts. I let them know I am with them. I ask God to send angels to look after them. I declare their happiness and success.
I declare my own success. I declare blessings over my life and my family and friends. I pray for the president and the troops and the children of the world. I pray for peace and joy. I decide it will be a good day.
Then, I get out of bed. Look out world!
Make it your best day. God bless you.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Some people call me a freak because I am usually awake before 5:00AM and I do it without an alarm clock. On Saturday and Sunday, I sleep in, waking up around 6:00 or 6:30. Don't get me wrong, I have overslept on occasion but I can oversleep and still wake up before most people.
Why have we placed such a high premium on sleep? Is it tiredness or is it laziness. We're told to get 8 hours a night. I haven't had 8 hours since I was in grade school and I am not suffering for it. It's how my body is wired and I'm okay with it. Rising early provides "Me" time and productivity time.
My routine goes like this: I wake up on my own and I can usually tell, to within ten minutes, what time it is. Today is one of those days where it was earlier than I thought. I only know this because the computer tells me so.
I lay in bed for about 15-30 minutes. I have always let me thoughts wander during this time, but I have come to the realization that this is destructive so I now guide my thoughts. I guide them toward thoughts of happiness, fulfillment, success, and love. When my mind wanders in a direction I'd rather not go, I reel it back in, and begin the process again. I imagine my day going smoothly. I see myself having a successful day at work. I think about this blog.
This blog had become a source of stress for me. The thought of writing day after day had become a challenge. I changed my approach. I know I am going to write, I know the words will flow, and all I need to think about at that point is what thoughts I will be sharing with you.
Waking up and giving myself this time also relieves the stress of hurrying and gives me time to start missing my children. I think about waking them up and laying out their uniforms. I think about them brushing their teeth and putting on their uniforms. I get to appreciate them for the miracles they are. Why do I want to miss them? It helps me appreciate them.
I think about my sons, who live on their own, and I wonder how their morning will go. I send them love and blessings and positive thoughts. I let them know I am with them. I ask God to send angels to look after them. I declare their happiness and success.
I declare my own success. I declare blessings over my life and my family and friends. I pray for the president and the troops and the children of the world. I pray for peace and joy. I decide it will be a good day.
Then, I get out of bed. Look out world!
Make it your best day. God bless you.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Day # 118 - Be Persistent
I took a spin class last night. Lots of fun. I recommend it. My high threshold for pain gives me a bit of an advantage - it makes me seem like I'm in better shape than I really am. That's not necessarily a good thing. I refuse to stop during the class regardless of how much I want to. I drink enough water to keep going, I don't indulge. I am persistent about it.
Anyone will tell you that persistence is key to success. The author, Stephen King, credited much of his success to persistence. What makes one athlete better than the other? Persistence. Don't believe me? Ask Michael Phelps. His routine was extremely consistent and his persistence in training led to his eight Olympic Gold Medals.
Years ago, when I quit the hospitality industry and became a financial advisor, I was given 90 days to earn my Series 7, Series 66, and insurance license. If I earned the licenses within that time frame, I would receive a bonus. Of course, I had, at the time, three kids and one on the way, so I couldn't just sit around my house studying.
What I did was I read the books out loud, recording every word in my own voice, and for the next 10 weeks, listened to nothing else. I took a job as a banquet waiter and worked long, hard hours, spending every free moment listening to those tapes or reading the books. I would go to the library between shifts (I often worked more than one in a day, with a few hours in between.) I even had a security guard at the library in Miami Beach confuse me for a homeless person because I fell asleep in the library. I explained to him that I was exhausted and studying, not drunk and loitering.
When the time came for the test, I caught food poisoning. I tried to reschedule but it was too late. I passed, though only by about six points. But you know what you call the guy who graduated last in his class from medical school? You call him Doctor!
I had no experience in finance at the time, I had worked in hotels all my career. But I decided I wanted something and persisted until I got it.
Decide today that you will be persistent in the pursuit of your goals. It is one of the most important characteristics of a successful person. I am reigniting mine.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
Anyone will tell you that persistence is key to success. The author, Stephen King, credited much of his success to persistence. What makes one athlete better than the other? Persistence. Don't believe me? Ask Michael Phelps. His routine was extremely consistent and his persistence in training led to his eight Olympic Gold Medals.
Years ago, when I quit the hospitality industry and became a financial advisor, I was given 90 days to earn my Series 7, Series 66, and insurance license. If I earned the licenses within that time frame, I would receive a bonus. Of course, I had, at the time, three kids and one on the way, so I couldn't just sit around my house studying.
What I did was I read the books out loud, recording every word in my own voice, and for the next 10 weeks, listened to nothing else. I took a job as a banquet waiter and worked long, hard hours, spending every free moment listening to those tapes or reading the books. I would go to the library between shifts (I often worked more than one in a day, with a few hours in between.) I even had a security guard at the library in Miami Beach confuse me for a homeless person because I fell asleep in the library. I explained to him that I was exhausted and studying, not drunk and loitering.
When the time came for the test, I caught food poisoning. I tried to reschedule but it was too late. I passed, though only by about six points. But you know what you call the guy who graduated last in his class from medical school? You call him Doctor!
I had no experience in finance at the time, I had worked in hotels all my career. But I decided I wanted something and persisted until I got it.
Decide today that you will be persistent in the pursuit of your goals. It is one of the most important characteristics of a successful person. I am reigniting mine.
- Adolfo
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Day # 114 - Do I Feel Lucky?
I just read an article my friend Nicole posted on Facebook about how to get lucky. Essentially, the article explains how luck is a choice. I don't know why it took ten years of research to make this discovery, but I'm glad Richard Wiserman went to the trouble.
It proves what the Bible says, it proves the Power of Positive Thinking, it eliminates one of the excuses some people like to use.
I used to be superstitious. Years ago, I came to the realization that superstition is the absence of faith, it is letting go of control of your own life. I chose to live under my own influence and control. Black cats be damned. Direct me to the nearest ladder and watch me limbo under it. Friday the 13th still gets a T.G.I.F. from me.
I made the choice to be "lucky" a long time ago and I have noticed the difference in my life. I no longer blame God or luck for a tough break. I simply correct course and move forward.
Go and do likewise.
Here is the link to the article.
God bless you. Good luck (not that you need it.)
- Adolfo
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
It proves what the Bible says, it proves the Power of Positive Thinking, it eliminates one of the excuses some people like to use.
I used to be superstitious. Years ago, I came to the realization that superstition is the absence of faith, it is letting go of control of your own life. I chose to live under my own influence and control. Black cats be damned. Direct me to the nearest ladder and watch me limbo under it. Friday the 13th still gets a T.G.I.F. from me.
I made the choice to be "lucky" a long time ago and I have noticed the difference in my life. I no longer blame God or luck for a tough break. I simply correct course and move forward.
Go and do likewise.
Here is the link to the article.
God bless you. Good luck (not that you need it.)
- Adolfo
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Day # 112 - The Main Street Journal
I've always, inconsistently, kept a journal or a diary. I have books full of thoughts, poetry, ideas, rants & raves. I was never as disciplined about it as I should have been. I haven't been disciplined in general. I'm working on it. As I've mentioned several times, this blog is about discipline. I started a journal on September 3 and I am being good about it. I write down the day's victories, the day's lessons, and my thoughts. I may jot down notes in it at different times of the day. I write my goals, big or small, and dreams in it.
I do this for the same reason I write: It's a positive behavior. It's a small step toward where I want to be. It's a way of exercising discipline. And discipline is what I need.
While this blog is a sort of journal, I needed something private. I needed to raise the level of my self-talk, and my journal is how I do it. While I may vent here, nothing but the very positive is allowed in the journal. It's a road map, wish list, and blueprint for the future, and it is a trail of breadcrumbs to the positive lessons of yesterday.
Write it down. Whatever it is, you'll be glad you did.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
I do this for the same reason I write: It's a positive behavior. It's a small step toward where I want to be. It's a way of exercising discipline. And discipline is what I need.
While this blog is a sort of journal, I needed something private. I needed to raise the level of my self-talk, and my journal is how I do it. While I may vent here, nothing but the very positive is allowed in the journal. It's a road map, wish list, and blueprint for the future, and it is a trail of breadcrumbs to the positive lessons of yesterday.
Write it down. Whatever it is, you'll be glad you did.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
http://www.honeybeepartyrental.com
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Day # 107 - Change of Venue
Lead us not into temptation... We've all heard it before. I went into the office yesterday and just wasn't feeling it. So... I went home to work. I didn't come home and put on my Superman jammies and bunny slippers, I kept my work ensemble on. I fired up the laptop and went to work.
I was more productive yesterday than any other day in this incredibly long short week. I wasn't getting up to go to the fridge every five minutes. No one walked into my office to chat. No questions that should answer themselves. No B.S., no nonsense. Just work.
I made two sales, set two appointments and sent out three contracts yesterday. I also revised an agreement for what is becoming a very big and important client. In my business, that's a busy day. Better than busy, it was productive. The kind of productivity that translates directly to the bottom line.
I know not everyone has the option of taking work home, or to a coffee shop, but you can always come to the office a little early to avoid the crowd. When people ask if you have a minute, say NO! Or tell them yes, you have exactly one minute. For years I have wasted so much time because I never understood the power of No. Learn it, you'll be better at your job, and you will find the work-life balance we all need.
I would also recommend putting yourself in a position where you are not lead into temptation. Don't keep a lot of junk food in your house or in your desk, so that the Oreos don't call your name when you have work to do. It's human nature to be lazy and if your lazy brain has to convince you you're hungry to get you to stop working, it will. Avoid the pitfalls.
I am not advocating workaholism. I am advocating productivity. If you want to move up in your career, grow your business, or just prosper and be successful at everything you do, learn to be more productive. I learned this lesson late, but I plan to make up for it.
So, turn your desk away from the window, stay away from the water cooler and coffee station and get your work done! The right people will notice.
God bless you. Make it your best and most productive day yet.
- Adolfo
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
I was more productive yesterday than any other day in this incredibly long short week. I wasn't getting up to go to the fridge every five minutes. No one walked into my office to chat. No questions that should answer themselves. No B.S., no nonsense. Just work.
I made two sales, set two appointments and sent out three contracts yesterday. I also revised an agreement for what is becoming a very big and important client. In my business, that's a busy day. Better than busy, it was productive. The kind of productivity that translates directly to the bottom line.
I know not everyone has the option of taking work home, or to a coffee shop, but you can always come to the office a little early to avoid the crowd. When people ask if you have a minute, say NO! Or tell them yes, you have exactly one minute. For years I have wasted so much time because I never understood the power of No. Learn it, you'll be better at your job, and you will find the work-life balance we all need.
I would also recommend putting yourself in a position where you are not lead into temptation. Don't keep a lot of junk food in your house or in your desk, so that the Oreos don't call your name when you have work to do. It's human nature to be lazy and if your lazy brain has to convince you you're hungry to get you to stop working, it will. Avoid the pitfalls.
I am not advocating workaholism. I am advocating productivity. If you want to move up in your career, grow your business, or just prosper and be successful at everything you do, learn to be more productive. I learned this lesson late, but I plan to make up for it.
So, turn your desk away from the window, stay away from the water cooler and coffee station and get your work done! The right people will notice.
God bless you. Make it your best and most productive day yet.
- Adolfo
http://www.facebook.com/adolfojimenez1
http://ayearwithoutnews.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/adolfojimenez
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Day # 100 - The First 100 Days of the Jimenez Administration
What can I say about my first 100 days? They were better than Barack Obama's first 100 days. I made no promises I didn't intend to keep. I find myself spreading the gospel of positivity and personal development.
I had a long conversation with a friend yesterday and I found myself counting how many times she said, "I can't." My children get punished if they say those words. Ten jumping jacks. And if this happens in a public place, they will do the jumping jacks right then and there. Those words are rarely heard in the Jimenez home.
I find myself changing and then falling back to my old ways. I often feel like I might lose my temper. I sometimes do (doesn't everyone?) but not like I used to. I find my negative self-talk finds its way into my noggin. I shut it off but it sometimes takes longer than it should. This is a result of comfort. That human desire to take it easy whenever possible - even subconsciously. I am recommitting to my goal today.
Lesson: The process of personal development never ends.
The negotiation I wrote about a couple of weeks ago continues. I am unable to give too many details at this point, but it's funny how everyone is gung-ho until it's time to write the check. Process versus Payment?
Lesson: When you get into a negotiation, know what you're getting into. If only out of respect for other people's time, you need to know your limits as well as your goals, so that once things are bigger than you're comfortable with, you can pull the plug and let the other parties explore other options.
So the quest continues. I am better than I was but nowhere near as good as I set out to be. 265 days to go.
- Adolfo
Follow me on Twitter
Friend me on Facebook
Follow A Year Without News
I had a long conversation with a friend yesterday and I found myself counting how many times she said, "I can't." My children get punished if they say those words. Ten jumping jacks. And if this happens in a public place, they will do the jumping jacks right then and there. Those words are rarely heard in the Jimenez home.
I find myself changing and then falling back to my old ways. I often feel like I might lose my temper. I sometimes do (doesn't everyone?) but not like I used to. I find my negative self-talk finds its way into my noggin. I shut it off but it sometimes takes longer than it should. This is a result of comfort. That human desire to take it easy whenever possible - even subconsciously. I am recommitting to my goal today.
Lesson: The process of personal development never ends.
The negotiation I wrote about a couple of weeks ago continues. I am unable to give too many details at this point, but it's funny how everyone is gung-ho until it's time to write the check. Process versus Payment?
Lesson: When you get into a negotiation, know what you're getting into. If only out of respect for other people's time, you need to know your limits as well as your goals, so that once things are bigger than you're comfortable with, you can pull the plug and let the other parties explore other options.
So the quest continues. I am better than I was but nowhere near as good as I set out to be. 265 days to go.
- Adolfo
Follow me on Twitter
Friend me on Facebook
Follow A Year Without News
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Day # 80 - Watch your mouth
We have all said something regrettable in a moment of anger, something we wish we could take back, sometimes before the words have left our lips. Other times we know we're going to regret saying something and we say it any way. You may not be thinking of it at the moment, but at some level you know you should probably shut up or think of something else to say.
It's hard to overstate the importance of words. Words from a president can lead to war or sink global markets. Words of encouragement from a parent or a teacher can give a kid a much needed boost. Words from a spouse can encourage, or wound. Words from a child can overwhelm you, or simply leave you laughing or shaking your head.
Think back to an important moment in your life. You will always remember the words that marked the occasion. If you have had a life-changing moment, it is likely because of something someone said to you. We may not remember everything our fathers did, but we are reminded of what they said because we repeat it to our own children. That's not always a good thing, but hopefully your filter is fully engaged.
Remember next time you are speaking to someone, anyone, the importance of your words. They matter more than you think. Remember to say "please" and "thank you." Remember to praise publicly and criticize privately. Remember that you never know when you are part of a life-changing moment so act as if you always are.
Emily Dickinson, my favorite poet, whom I named my daughter after said it best:
A WORD is dead
When it is said,
Some say.
I say it just
Begins to live
That day
Once spoken, your words go on and on. Make them count.
- Adolfo
Start building your Success Library!
Follow me on Twitter
Friend me on Facebook
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It's hard to overstate the importance of words. Words from a president can lead to war or sink global markets. Words of encouragement from a parent or a teacher can give a kid a much needed boost. Words from a spouse can encourage, or wound. Words from a child can overwhelm you, or simply leave you laughing or shaking your head.
Think back to an important moment in your life. You will always remember the words that marked the occasion. If you have had a life-changing moment, it is likely because of something someone said to you. We may not remember everything our fathers did, but we are reminded of what they said because we repeat it to our own children. That's not always a good thing, but hopefully your filter is fully engaged.
Remember next time you are speaking to someone, anyone, the importance of your words. They matter more than you think. Remember to say "please" and "thank you." Remember to praise publicly and criticize privately. Remember that you never know when you are part of a life-changing moment so act as if you always are.
Emily Dickinson, my favorite poet, whom I named my daughter after said it best:
A WORD is dead
When it is said,
Some say.
I say it just
Begins to live
That day
Once spoken, your words go on and on. Make them count.
- Adolfo
Start building your Success Library!
Follow me on Twitter
Friend me on Facebook
Follow A Year Without News
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Day # 79 - How we see things
We don't see things how they are, we see things as we are. Bias is going to happen. It's practically impossible to be completely impossible. Yesterday I had a conversation with a few friends, all of whom I care about and respect, none of whom I agree with on the question of politics.
I am a libertarian. I don't believe the government has ever solved a problem. I think whenever the government sticks its nose in a problem, it gets worse. I think of welfare and education as two glaring examples of where the government got into areas with the stated intention of helping and have done more harm than good. When my liberal friends mention this. I tell them that as education spending has increased so has the rate of illiteracy in the US. The best they can do is say it has to do with Republicans. Who cares? The point is that it doesn't work! That's how I see it.
I have hard times like anyone else. I am proud of what I have endured and overcome in my lifetime. I also know that my hard times haven't been all that bad. I have learned to look at these things as challenges designed to make me stronger. I have learned not to yell every time I get a flat tire, cursing God and asking why the universe hates me. I don't care. These are bumps in the road, not roadblocks. The really serious ones are detours, but there is no turning back. I passed the point of no return a million miles ago. I wouldn't want to go back even if I could.
The biggest reason I am a libertarian is my belief in people. I believe in the power of every person to affect his own life. I believe you can be born in a ghetto and become president and I believe you can be born in a mansion and wind up eating out of dumpsters. I believe this is the beauty of life. I believe this is why there isn't, and should never be, a constitutional "guarantee" of happiness. All we are given is the opportunity to pursue it. How fast are you willing to run? Are you a jogger, or are you going to run until your sides hurt and your mouth tastes like pennies and your knees feel like they'll collapse under your weight?
Are you running from your problems or are you running after happiness, a better life, success, and the blessings that are yours to be earned? Are you looking for opportunities or excuses? Are you a woman, and therefore disadvantaged? Or are you a person of substance and therefore unstoppable? Are you a person of color? Or are you a colorful, imaginative person who knows no bounds?
Everything in your life, your upbringing, your race, religion, gender, orientation, age, background, your name, your family, literally everything about you can be a reason or an excuse. It's all in how you see it.
Thought for today:
- When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. - Jim Rohn.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
Start building your Success Library!
Follow me on Twitter
Friend me on Facebook
Follow A Year Without News
I am a libertarian. I don't believe the government has ever solved a problem. I think whenever the government sticks its nose in a problem, it gets worse. I think of welfare and education as two glaring examples of where the government got into areas with the stated intention of helping and have done more harm than good. When my liberal friends mention this. I tell them that as education spending has increased so has the rate of illiteracy in the US. The best they can do is say it has to do with Republicans. Who cares? The point is that it doesn't work! That's how I see it.
I have hard times like anyone else. I am proud of what I have endured and overcome in my lifetime. I also know that my hard times haven't been all that bad. I have learned to look at these things as challenges designed to make me stronger. I have learned not to yell every time I get a flat tire, cursing God and asking why the universe hates me. I don't care. These are bumps in the road, not roadblocks. The really serious ones are detours, but there is no turning back. I passed the point of no return a million miles ago. I wouldn't want to go back even if I could.
The biggest reason I am a libertarian is my belief in people. I believe in the power of every person to affect his own life. I believe you can be born in a ghetto and become president and I believe you can be born in a mansion and wind up eating out of dumpsters. I believe this is the beauty of life. I believe this is why there isn't, and should never be, a constitutional "guarantee" of happiness. All we are given is the opportunity to pursue it. How fast are you willing to run? Are you a jogger, or are you going to run until your sides hurt and your mouth tastes like pennies and your knees feel like they'll collapse under your weight?
Are you running from your problems or are you running after happiness, a better life, success, and the blessings that are yours to be earned? Are you looking for opportunities or excuses? Are you a woman, and therefore disadvantaged? Or are you a person of substance and therefore unstoppable? Are you a person of color? Or are you a colorful, imaginative person who knows no bounds?
Everything in your life, your upbringing, your race, religion, gender, orientation, age, background, your name, your family, literally everything about you can be a reason or an excuse. It's all in how you see it.
Thought for today:
- When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. - Jim Rohn.
God bless you. Make it your best day yet.
- Adolfo
Start building your Success Library!
Follow me on Twitter
Friend me on Facebook
Follow A Year Without News
Friday, August 13, 2010
Day # 78 - The box! What's in the box?
Don't you hate the expression, "think outside the box"? Isn't using that expression indicative of "inside the box" thinking? In my experience, creative thinking shouldn't be categorized. You should just think. Allow your mind to do it's thing. Don't talk to yourself about limits or boxes because these activities take away from what you should be thinking about. I am a curious individual and I want to learn about most things. I want to understand everything. Maybe I don't want to understand math. I just don't see the point. It's been over twenty years since high school and I was right and the teachers were wrong: I have never used algebra in the real world. Who's the smart one now?
Don't answer that.
Creative thinking isn't about painting on canvas or writing poetry. It's about finding solutions to problems. It's finding a way around or over when through is not an option. It's understanding that you don't have all the answers. Actually, it's admitting you don't have all the answers. Creative thinking leads to creative actions and it takes guts. It takes the kind of courage a lot of people don't have. The sad part is that they don't even realize that fear of the new is the millstone around their necks.
The worse that can happen when you try a new approach is that your approach fails and you have to try something else. You didn't fail. You only fail when you fail to try. Forget the box, get off your cowardly ass and make something happen. Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently. Never beginning in the first place is casting your failure in bronze.
When you try a different approach, there will be "in the box" thinkers who will shoot your idea down. I think of them as in a cage rather than a box. These nay-sayers are slaves to convention, to fear, and to insecurity. They make up their mind about a project before even thinking it through. These are the people with a head full of dreams and a pocket full of lint.
Yesterday I told you about a consulting gig I am doing. I have never really been a consultant, but someone saw my ability and I decided to give it a shot. The result was like yoga for the mind: I found myself using muscles I didn't know I had.
When I started HoneyBee Party Rental, I had no idea about the party rental business. I had never rented a bounce house for my own children. Didn't know the first thing about it. But when we decide to do it, I went all in. I spent the money, did the research and learned what to do by watching my competition and what not to do from my own mistakes. Some of those mistakes were costly, but they were an investment in my development as a business owner.
Two thoughts for today:
- When a true genius arrives in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
- Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. - Albert Einstein.
Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I am unlimited. I am creative. God never gives me more than I can handle. I just need to believe in myself as much as He does.
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Don't answer that.
Creative thinking isn't about painting on canvas or writing poetry. It's about finding solutions to problems. It's finding a way around or over when through is not an option. It's understanding that you don't have all the answers. Actually, it's admitting you don't have all the answers. Creative thinking leads to creative actions and it takes guts. It takes the kind of courage a lot of people don't have. The sad part is that they don't even realize that fear of the new is the millstone around their necks.
The worse that can happen when you try a new approach is that your approach fails and you have to try something else. You didn't fail. You only fail when you fail to try. Forget the box, get off your cowardly ass and make something happen. Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently. Never beginning in the first place is casting your failure in bronze.
When you try a different approach, there will be "in the box" thinkers who will shoot your idea down. I think of them as in a cage rather than a box. These nay-sayers are slaves to convention, to fear, and to insecurity. They make up their mind about a project before even thinking it through. These are the people with a head full of dreams and a pocket full of lint.
Yesterday I told you about a consulting gig I am doing. I have never really been a consultant, but someone saw my ability and I decided to give it a shot. The result was like yoga for the mind: I found myself using muscles I didn't know I had.
When I started HoneyBee Party Rental, I had no idea about the party rental business. I had never rented a bounce house for my own children. Didn't know the first thing about it. But when we decide to do it, I went all in. I spent the money, did the research and learned what to do by watching my competition and what not to do from my own mistakes. Some of those mistakes were costly, but they were an investment in my development as a business owner.
Two thoughts for today:
- When a true genius arrives in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
- Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. - Albert Einstein.
Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I am unlimited. I am creative. God never gives me more than I can handle. I just need to believe in myself as much as He does.
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Friday, August 6, 2010
Day # 72 - Micromanagement
I love micromanagement. I think it's great when you hire a person, which is in essence an endorsement of that person's history, background, and qualifications, and then let your actions tell them you don't trust them.
I know of a really big bank where micromanagement is the standard. A friend of mine actually applied for a job there and was told he would be micromanaged. They weren't kidding. I have friends and family who work for this bank and they are literally on 4 - 6 conference calls per day. The reason for the calls? To ask what they're doing, report the numbers, make up lies, excuses, etc.
It reminds me of what Princess Leia said, "The more you tighten your grip, the more star systems will slip through your fingers." She was talking to General Tartan and still had something of a British accent this early in the movie (Episode IV.)
The fact is you cannot control everything and all micromanaging does is alienate the person being managed. It doesn't work in business, in family affairs, or in relationships. It simply cannot be.
Just as it is advisable to let go of the things we don't or shouldn't care about, we need to loosen our grip on the things we love the most. Only then are they free to love us back.
Micromanagers are insecure and generally incompetent. They would rather be elbow-deep in your business than tend to their own, probably for fear of being discovered for the frauds they typically are. Of course, some are competent, they're just idiots who don't trust anyone.
It's obvious today's post has veered in the direction of business and management. It's okay, these are parts of our lives - definitely a part of mine. And you have to have a happy work life to be happy. Amen?
Today's Lessons:
- Surround yourself with great people and then trust them. Some of them may let you down, but most of them will surprise you.
- Show respect for people by giving them their independence.
- Respect free will.
Today's Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I trust and respect the people around me and I know they will do their best for me.
So, don't be a micromanager. No one will like you. Have fun and believe in people. You won't be disappointed - at least not as often as you fear.
Make it your best (hands off) day yet. God bless you.
- Adolfo
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I know of a really big bank where micromanagement is the standard. A friend of mine actually applied for a job there and was told he would be micromanaged. They weren't kidding. I have friends and family who work for this bank and they are literally on 4 - 6 conference calls per day. The reason for the calls? To ask what they're doing, report the numbers, make up lies, excuses, etc.
It reminds me of what Princess Leia said, "The more you tighten your grip, the more star systems will slip through your fingers." She was talking to General Tartan and still had something of a British accent this early in the movie (Episode IV.)
The fact is you cannot control everything and all micromanaging does is alienate the person being managed. It doesn't work in business, in family affairs, or in relationships. It simply cannot be.
Just as it is advisable to let go of the things we don't or shouldn't care about, we need to loosen our grip on the things we love the most. Only then are they free to love us back.
Micromanagers are insecure and generally incompetent. They would rather be elbow-deep in your business than tend to their own, probably for fear of being discovered for the frauds they typically are. Of course, some are competent, they're just idiots who don't trust anyone.
It's obvious today's post has veered in the direction of business and management. It's okay, these are parts of our lives - definitely a part of mine. And you have to have a happy work life to be happy. Amen?
Today's Lessons:
- Surround yourself with great people and then trust them. Some of them may let you down, but most of them will surprise you.
- Show respect for people by giving them their independence.
- Respect free will.
Today's Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I trust and respect the people around me and I know they will do their best for me.
So, don't be a micromanager. No one will like you. Have fun and believe in people. You won't be disappointed - at least not as often as you fear.
Make it your best (hands off) day yet. God bless you.
- Adolfo
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Sunday, August 1, 2010
Day # 66 - We all need a boost
I started this project for me. I continue for me. In a sense I do it for my family because what benefits me benefits them. If I am a happier, more productive individual everyone who depends on me benefits. My family is happier, we are all eating better (most of the time) and we are focused on improving our lives.
Of course, putting this out there for the public, I do want it to be read and enjoyed by others. And if it helps someone even just a little, then I am the happiest man in the world. After all, if you want to change the world, you have to start with yourself.
An old friend of mine wrote me some encouraging words last night and I am high on them. She is someone whose opinion of me I truly value so when she paid me a compliment, I felt validation. I didn't even know I was looking for validation, but I guess we all are.
It doesn't matter who you are or how successful you are. We all need to be loved and we all want someone to tell us we are loved. We all want to be appreciated. Study after study has proven that employees are more motivated by rewards and recognition than by money. It's part of human nature.
Do you know someone who needs encouragement? Of course you do. This could be your spouse, your child, a friend, a neighbor, even a stranger or a co-worker. Give them a boost. Smile when you see them. Thank someone who does something for you. If you receive extraordinary service from someone, don't hesitate to tell their supervisor. If we all pitch in and give everyone we can a little shot in the arm, we start the snowball that makes the world better.
Today's Lessons:
- We all need a boost. Knowing this, you should boost someone else today. The good you put out into the universe always finds its way back.
- You can be the difference in a person's life. This works in both ways: positive and negative. Make the right choice.
Today's Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I improve my world every day by being an example to others.
- I will encourage those who need to be encouraged. I will discourage none.
Boosting opportunities abound. Keep your eyes open and you'll find countless ways to improve the world, one little boost at a time.
Make it your best day yet. God bless you.
- Adolfo
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Of course, putting this out there for the public, I do want it to be read and enjoyed by others. And if it helps someone even just a little, then I am the happiest man in the world. After all, if you want to change the world, you have to start with yourself.
An old friend of mine wrote me some encouraging words last night and I am high on them. She is someone whose opinion of me I truly value so when she paid me a compliment, I felt validation. I didn't even know I was looking for validation, but I guess we all are.
It doesn't matter who you are or how successful you are. We all need to be loved and we all want someone to tell us we are loved. We all want to be appreciated. Study after study has proven that employees are more motivated by rewards and recognition than by money. It's part of human nature.
Do you know someone who needs encouragement? Of course you do. This could be your spouse, your child, a friend, a neighbor, even a stranger or a co-worker. Give them a boost. Smile when you see them. Thank someone who does something for you. If you receive extraordinary service from someone, don't hesitate to tell their supervisor. If we all pitch in and give everyone we can a little shot in the arm, we start the snowball that makes the world better.
Today's Lessons:
- We all need a boost. Knowing this, you should boost someone else today. The good you put out into the universe always finds its way back.
- You can be the difference in a person's life. This works in both ways: positive and negative. Make the right choice.
Today's Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I improve my world every day by being an example to others.
- I will encourage those who need to be encouraged. I will discourage none.
Boosting opportunities abound. Keep your eyes open and you'll find countless ways to improve the world, one little boost at a time.
Make it your best day yet. God bless you.
- Adolfo
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Saturday, July 31, 2010
Day # 65 - Contagion III
I've written before about the contagious nature of moods. We've all said or heard, "You're bringing me down." Or, "I'm here to cheer you up." We can set a mood and have our mood altered by the people around us. This not only applies to friends, it applies to people who stand in line ahead of or behind us. It applies to customers and co-workers. It definitely applies to other drivers when we're stuck in traffic.
I witnessed this firsthand yesterday as a troublesome client got the better of one of my co-workers. He's usually a very nice guy but this particular client has managed to upset every person who works there. Except me. I find this person fascinating. I'm pretty sure she has some kind of mental condition. Or, as my co-workers so gently put it: she's nuts.
It's obvious that we shouldn't let other people determine our mood for us - unless, of course, they are spreading happiness and joy, in which case we welcome it. But if a person is difficult and disagreeable, you must let it slide.
Here goes:
A person is unpleasant. You can't stand this person. They put you in a bad mood and now you are unpleasant. Congratulations, you have become that which you despise. You failed.
Or:
A person is unpleasant. You can't stand this person. You attempt to kill them with kindness. It doesn't work. Tell yourself that they are a temporary guest in your life. They will soon be gone.
See, if you allow this person to put you in a bad mood, the unpleasantness lasts a lot longer than if you view them as a blip on your screen. Try to determine the rest of their day if you can, but, whatever you do, don't allow them to determine even a minute of yours.
Another thing, if this person is crazy or mentally ill as I suspect with this particular person, do not hold it against them. It's no different than hating a person because of their skin or eye color or some other uncontrollable factor. Include this person in your prayers and direct your positivity at them. Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Today's Lessons:
- Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
- Be a positive influence rather than a receptacle for negative influence.
- Try to find the good in every person and every situation.
Today's Lessons:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I determine my mood. No one can determine it for me.
- I am in control of my emotions, my reactions, and the impression I make on others.
Spread the joy. Kill the sorrow and anger. We are all looking for ways to change the world. This is where you start.
- Adolfo
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I witnessed this firsthand yesterday as a troublesome client got the better of one of my co-workers. He's usually a very nice guy but this particular client has managed to upset every person who works there. Except me. I find this person fascinating. I'm pretty sure she has some kind of mental condition. Or, as my co-workers so gently put it: she's nuts.
It's obvious that we shouldn't let other people determine our mood for us - unless, of course, they are spreading happiness and joy, in which case we welcome it. But if a person is difficult and disagreeable, you must let it slide.
Here goes:
A person is unpleasant. You can't stand this person. They put you in a bad mood and now you are unpleasant. Congratulations, you have become that which you despise. You failed.
Or:
A person is unpleasant. You can't stand this person. You attempt to kill them with kindness. It doesn't work. Tell yourself that they are a temporary guest in your life. They will soon be gone.
See, if you allow this person to put you in a bad mood, the unpleasantness lasts a lot longer than if you view them as a blip on your screen. Try to determine the rest of their day if you can, but, whatever you do, don't allow them to determine even a minute of yours.
Another thing, if this person is crazy or mentally ill as I suspect with this particular person, do not hold it against them. It's no different than hating a person because of their skin or eye color or some other uncontrollable factor. Include this person in your prayers and direct your positivity at them. Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Today's Lessons:
- Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
- Be a positive influence rather than a receptacle for negative influence.
- Try to find the good in every person and every situation.
Today's Lessons:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I determine my mood. No one can determine it for me.
- I am in control of my emotions, my reactions, and the impression I make on others.
Spread the joy. Kill the sorrow and anger. We are all looking for ways to change the world. This is where you start.
- Adolfo
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Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Day # 54 - Attitude v. Aptitude
"It's your attitude, not your aptitude, that determines your altitude."
- Zig Ziglar
Why is it that some of us get farther than others? Have you ever had a boss that you know was not nearly as smart or capable as you? How about a lazy boss? Aren't those the worst? Now be honest; how much time did you spend thinking about it? Did you dwell on it? Did you sit there with your co-workers whining about how unfair life is? Or did you let it inspire you?
There are always going to be people who seem to have more than they deserve. There are always going to be people who feel they have less than they deserve. The truly successful people don't think in turns of deserving anything. They set a goal and they work for it. When they hit that goal, they move on to the next one.
I have met people in my life who were very educated and working for minimum wage. I have known high school dropouts (like me) who have achieved some measure of success. And I have met people who can barely read that have managed to be extremely successful. What separates them?
Some of us just don't care that we're not "supposed" to be successful. We work hard, some work very hard. We save our pennies, improve our lives, keep the right attitude, and soon enough make something of ourselves. I have had ups and downs like anyone else. I've learned a little from both, and I can tell you that attitude matters a lot more than aptitude.
And if failure bothers you so much that you find yourself paralyzed with self-pity, all I can say is MAN UP! You learn more from failure than from success. Get off your behind, don't have a pity party, don't be a whiner. Don't think about that the other guy has an advanced degree or he went to a better school or he has an uncle who plays golf with the governor. Who cares about uncles. You think playing golf with the governor is important? Write it down as a goal and make it happen. Have the right attitude and you can overcome anything and everything. You're going to fall now and then. You're going to have your moments in the dark. Only a positive attitude will shine brightly enough to help you find your way out.
Today's Lessons:
- Having the right attitude is more important than the right sheepskin.
- Positive thinking will allow you to overcome any obstacle.
- Don't focus on what you don't have. Don't focus on what others have. Focus on what you want.
Today's Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I will continually adjust my attitude to ensure I am focused on my goals.
- I will have a positive attitude and my positive attitude will light my path and lead me to where I want to be.
Forget what you don't have. Forget what you don't know. Do what you were meant to do. Have the right attitude and nothing else matters.
Make it your best day yet. God bless you.
- Adolfo
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- Zig Ziglar
Why is it that some of us get farther than others? Have you ever had a boss that you know was not nearly as smart or capable as you? How about a lazy boss? Aren't those the worst? Now be honest; how much time did you spend thinking about it? Did you dwell on it? Did you sit there with your co-workers whining about how unfair life is? Or did you let it inspire you?
There are always going to be people who seem to have more than they deserve. There are always going to be people who feel they have less than they deserve. The truly successful people don't think in turns of deserving anything. They set a goal and they work for it. When they hit that goal, they move on to the next one.
I have met people in my life who were very educated and working for minimum wage. I have known high school dropouts (like me) who have achieved some measure of success. And I have met people who can barely read that have managed to be extremely successful. What separates them?
Some of us just don't care that we're not "supposed" to be successful. We work hard, some work very hard. We save our pennies, improve our lives, keep the right attitude, and soon enough make something of ourselves. I have had ups and downs like anyone else. I've learned a little from both, and I can tell you that attitude matters a lot more than aptitude.
And if failure bothers you so much that you find yourself paralyzed with self-pity, all I can say is MAN UP! You learn more from failure than from success. Get off your behind, don't have a pity party, don't be a whiner. Don't think about that the other guy has an advanced degree or he went to a better school or he has an uncle who plays golf with the governor. Who cares about uncles. You think playing golf with the governor is important? Write it down as a goal and make it happen. Have the right attitude and you can overcome anything and everything. You're going to fall now and then. You're going to have your moments in the dark. Only a positive attitude will shine brightly enough to help you find your way out.
Today's Lessons:
- Having the right attitude is more important than the right sheepskin.
- Positive thinking will allow you to overcome any obstacle.
- Don't focus on what you don't have. Don't focus on what others have. Focus on what you want.
Today's Declarations:
- Day by day in every way I am getting better and better.
- I will continually adjust my attitude to ensure I am focused on my goals.
- I will have a positive attitude and my positive attitude will light my path and lead me to where I want to be.
Forget what you don't have. Forget what you don't know. Do what you were meant to do. Have the right attitude and nothing else matters.
Make it your best day yet. God bless you.
- Adolfo
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