Showing posts with label habit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label habit. Show all posts
Sunday, 28 June 2020
Thursday, 25 June 2020
Wednesday, 24 June 2020
Sunday, 21 June 2020
Saturday, 20 June 2020
Saturday, 13 June 2020
Discipline - The Vehicle of Success
We have all heard 'Practice Makes Perfect'. Practice is doing something repeatedly in order to do it well and once you learn to do it well, you practice to do it better. Whether it is shooting a basketball or preparing for a speech, practice is your best ally. But what is it that keeps you practicing? It is Discipline.
Our society enjoys sports. We gather in bars and fill stadiums to watch athletes execute almost perfectly. Whether it is a fighter or a football player, we are in awe and entertained by their almost super human skills. But those skills we so admire do not happen overnight. When a boxer steps into a ring or a basketball player steps unto the court and they execute, what you are watching is the culmination of 1000's of repetitive moves and hours of dedication. What kept them repeating the same move over and over again, day in and day out, hardly letting up, is Discipline.
Naturally we are not a disciplined species. We love what feels good all the time. We run from discomfort. Anything that is outside our comfort zone, we shy away from. Discipline is like an internal drill sergeant that yells at us to get our asses up when we want to roll over and enjoy more sleep. It tells us that it is not time to go home when everyone else have retired for the night. Discipline tells you not to eat that slice of cake or drink that Coke. Whatever your objective is, Discipline is necessary to stay on the right track towards it.
So how does one attain Discipline? Like most good qualities in life, Discipline can be developed. Think of the first thing you do when you get up in the morning. What is it? Do you reach for the TV remote? Head straight into the kitchen? Here is an idea for how you can begin to develop discipline in your life. Since each day is a new opportunity for you to live the rest of your life start with something that will require Discipline at first; Make your bed.
That's it. Make your bed. Make your bed every day. There will be days when you don't feel like making your bed. Do it anyways. Start your day having accomplished a task to improve your life. A made bed is a very good way to start your day. It is an accomplishment. At first it will take Discipline to keep you doing this if you have not been used to making your bed. Eventually you will do so out of habit. You have created a good habit. Congratulations!
Now, what are you after? A better paying job? Making a team? Winning a championship? Whatever it is, understand the Discipline that made it possible to accomplish that first task in the morning is not limited. It is there to help you with whatever your goals are. You just need to heed it, not ignore it. The more disciplined you become in various areas of your life, the more structure you will find in those areas of your life.
Whatever your goal is, think of yourself as an athlete competing to attain it. Put yourself in the mindset of an athlete. Then employ Discipline to keep at it to make yourself better. You will reap if you do not grow weary.
Copyright � 2020, M.A.Singh. All rights reserved.
M.A.Singh
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mark_A._Singh/191165
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10304224
Our society enjoys sports. We gather in bars and fill stadiums to watch athletes execute almost perfectly. Whether it is a fighter or a football player, we are in awe and entertained by their almost super human skills. But those skills we so admire do not happen overnight. When a boxer steps into a ring or a basketball player steps unto the court and they execute, what you are watching is the culmination of 1000's of repetitive moves and hours of dedication. What kept them repeating the same move over and over again, day in and day out, hardly letting up, is Discipline.
Naturally we are not a disciplined species. We love what feels good all the time. We run from discomfort. Anything that is outside our comfort zone, we shy away from. Discipline is like an internal drill sergeant that yells at us to get our asses up when we want to roll over and enjoy more sleep. It tells us that it is not time to go home when everyone else have retired for the night. Discipline tells you not to eat that slice of cake or drink that Coke. Whatever your objective is, Discipline is necessary to stay on the right track towards it.
So how does one attain Discipline? Like most good qualities in life, Discipline can be developed. Think of the first thing you do when you get up in the morning. What is it? Do you reach for the TV remote? Head straight into the kitchen? Here is an idea for how you can begin to develop discipline in your life. Since each day is a new opportunity for you to live the rest of your life start with something that will require Discipline at first; Make your bed.
That's it. Make your bed. Make your bed every day. There will be days when you don't feel like making your bed. Do it anyways. Start your day having accomplished a task to improve your life. A made bed is a very good way to start your day. It is an accomplishment. At first it will take Discipline to keep you doing this if you have not been used to making your bed. Eventually you will do so out of habit. You have created a good habit. Congratulations!
Now, what are you after? A better paying job? Making a team? Winning a championship? Whatever it is, understand the Discipline that made it possible to accomplish that first task in the morning is not limited. It is there to help you with whatever your goals are. You just need to heed it, not ignore it. The more disciplined you become in various areas of your life, the more structure you will find in those areas of your life.
Whatever your goal is, think of yourself as an athlete competing to attain it. Put yourself in the mindset of an athlete. Then employ Discipline to keep at it to make yourself better. You will reap if you do not grow weary.
Copyright � 2020, M.A.Singh. All rights reserved.
M.A.Singh
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mark_A._Singh/191165
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10304224
Saturday, 6 June 2020
Monday, 1 June 2020
Thursday, 28 May 2020
Sunday, 24 May 2020
Friday, 22 May 2020
Why Those Who Are Most Responsive To Change, Will Always Thrive
Go With The Natural Flow Of Events
What are you resisting right now in your life? Is it the sudden change of circumstances in relation to the Coronavirus? Is it something you're missing out on, such as being in contact with loved ones, a friend, work colleagues or others? What negative emotions are you experiencing as a result? Is it anger, frustration, anxiety, fear or something else? How are you responding to them?
I realise I'm asking a lot of questions but it's important we understand what is the cause of our emotions. Now, granted, you might say I'm angry and frustrated being isolated from others against my will. And you wouldn't be wrong to feel this way, however what is the fundamental reason behind it? You see, the emotions you're experiencing may not only be attributed to separation. There could be something deeper beneath the surface that warrants your investigation. It is my experience, working with individuals over the years, that those who are most responsive to change always thrive.
These are people who are psychologically flexible and embrace what life throws at them. It doesn't mean they like what is happening. And I'm not suggesting you like what is taking place either because that would be remiss of me. What I am inviting you to do, is accept your current conditions to the best of your ability and make the most of it. Is this something you're willing to give your attention to? Could you entertain the idea that you needn't like your current circumstances but stop resisting it?
Resistance is futile because ultimately reality trumps our struggles and emotions. And who says life ought to meet our expectations of how things should unfold? Life is a self-sustaining system, operating with its own natural laws. We must learn to abide by them because we are a drop in an ocean of a vast cosmic intelligence, working tirelessly to maintain order. But sometimes, what we initially experience is chaos expanding to create order. It makes it easier if we stop fighting what is happening and go with the natural flow of events. This is what is meant by being grateful. It's the idea of looking for hidden gems contained within unexpected events.
Life Is Not Personal
Assuredly, what we give our attention to becomes our focal point. So, if you direct your attention to unpleasant circumstances, you will find evidence of it (confirmation bias) and call it into your experience. But this comes at a cost to your well-being, which is paramount to your mental and physical health. Responding to change affirmatively means that even though circumstances are not as we like them to be, we can turn misfortune into triumph. It means looking for the silver lining in every experience, even if we have to look hard, there will always be a positive lesson.
Listen, life is unfair. When we were protected by our parents or guardians as youngsters, we may have assumed life was fair. But we mature and discover through heartbreak, setbacks and disappointments, life is anything but fair. This is because life is not personal. Read that again and mark it somewhere on your computer or smartphone. Life is not personal. You are part of life's ecosystem and when you cooperate and collaborate with this energetic force, circumstances will benefit you.
So, back to my earlier questions about what you're resisting right now. How can you take that experience and find a hidden treasure amongst it? Could you give yourself the gift of sitting with your negative emotions, to explore what is at the heart of your resistance? I assure you, this practice alone, can change your life more than you realise.
It will empower you to control your emotions and understand their underlying motive. You needn't struggle with life because doing so means resisting the gifts it brings. Those gifts will seldom come in the form you hope for. They are often disguised as: hardship, pain, struggle and disappointment and requires we face them with optimism instead resistance. I often asked myself: Why do some people struggle with change while others take it in their stride? Why don't these people let their experiences get them down? What do they know that others don't?
I'm not convinced that successful people are any wiser or more intelligent than the rest of us. I'm certain however, they have experienced heartache, suffering and misfortunes to know that hardships don't come to disturb our peace, but to anchor us in our resilience and sharpen the saw of our character. That is why those who are most responsive to change will thrive because they move with their circumstances and make the most of it. So, give that gift to yourself right now. Give yourself the gift of sitting with your emotions for 30 minutes, to explore what is really going on beneath the surface. Give yourself the gift of unlocking your true wisdom. It is only then you will realise that thriving isn't a state of mind but a way of being in the world.
Do you want to lead a remarkable life? Are you committed to taking action despite your fears and doubts? If so, download your FREE copy of my eBook NAVIGATE LIFE right now, and start your amazing journey of greatness today!
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Tony_Fahkry/837610
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10283482
What are you resisting right now in your life? Is it the sudden change of circumstances in relation to the Coronavirus? Is it something you're missing out on, such as being in contact with loved ones, a friend, work colleagues or others? What negative emotions are you experiencing as a result? Is it anger, frustration, anxiety, fear or something else? How are you responding to them?
I realise I'm asking a lot of questions but it's important we understand what is the cause of our emotions. Now, granted, you might say I'm angry and frustrated being isolated from others against my will. And you wouldn't be wrong to feel this way, however what is the fundamental reason behind it? You see, the emotions you're experiencing may not only be attributed to separation. There could be something deeper beneath the surface that warrants your investigation. It is my experience, working with individuals over the years, that those who are most responsive to change always thrive.
These are people who are psychologically flexible and embrace what life throws at them. It doesn't mean they like what is happening. And I'm not suggesting you like what is taking place either because that would be remiss of me. What I am inviting you to do, is accept your current conditions to the best of your ability and make the most of it. Is this something you're willing to give your attention to? Could you entertain the idea that you needn't like your current circumstances but stop resisting it?
Resistance is futile because ultimately reality trumps our struggles and emotions. And who says life ought to meet our expectations of how things should unfold? Life is a self-sustaining system, operating with its own natural laws. We must learn to abide by them because we are a drop in an ocean of a vast cosmic intelligence, working tirelessly to maintain order. But sometimes, what we initially experience is chaos expanding to create order. It makes it easier if we stop fighting what is happening and go with the natural flow of events. This is what is meant by being grateful. It's the idea of looking for hidden gems contained within unexpected events.
Life Is Not Personal
Assuredly, what we give our attention to becomes our focal point. So, if you direct your attention to unpleasant circumstances, you will find evidence of it (confirmation bias) and call it into your experience. But this comes at a cost to your well-being, which is paramount to your mental and physical health. Responding to change affirmatively means that even though circumstances are not as we like them to be, we can turn misfortune into triumph. It means looking for the silver lining in every experience, even if we have to look hard, there will always be a positive lesson.
Listen, life is unfair. When we were protected by our parents or guardians as youngsters, we may have assumed life was fair. But we mature and discover through heartbreak, setbacks and disappointments, life is anything but fair. This is because life is not personal. Read that again and mark it somewhere on your computer or smartphone. Life is not personal. You are part of life's ecosystem and when you cooperate and collaborate with this energetic force, circumstances will benefit you.
So, back to my earlier questions about what you're resisting right now. How can you take that experience and find a hidden treasure amongst it? Could you give yourself the gift of sitting with your negative emotions, to explore what is at the heart of your resistance? I assure you, this practice alone, can change your life more than you realise.
It will empower you to control your emotions and understand their underlying motive. You needn't struggle with life because doing so means resisting the gifts it brings. Those gifts will seldom come in the form you hope for. They are often disguised as: hardship, pain, struggle and disappointment and requires we face them with optimism instead resistance. I often asked myself: Why do some people struggle with change while others take it in their stride? Why don't these people let their experiences get them down? What do they know that others don't?
I'm not convinced that successful people are any wiser or more intelligent than the rest of us. I'm certain however, they have experienced heartache, suffering and misfortunes to know that hardships don't come to disturb our peace, but to anchor us in our resilience and sharpen the saw of our character. That is why those who are most responsive to change will thrive because they move with their circumstances and make the most of it. So, give that gift to yourself right now. Give yourself the gift of sitting with your emotions for 30 minutes, to explore what is really going on beneath the surface. Give yourself the gift of unlocking your true wisdom. It is only then you will realise that thriving isn't a state of mind but a way of being in the world.
Do you want to lead a remarkable life? Are you committed to taking action despite your fears and doubts? If so, download your FREE copy of my eBook NAVIGATE LIFE right now, and start your amazing journey of greatness today!
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Tony_Fahkry/837610
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10283482
Thursday, 21 May 2020
10 Ways to Get Back to Your Reading Habit
By Mitul Patel
We have published an article about how to read more books. Now this post is for those who used to read in past and now stopped it for some reasons. Recently a friend asked how he could start reading habit. When I asked him what kinds of books he liked to read, his answer surprised me that he couldn't remember the last time he had read an entire book but he read a lot of news and stuffs online. Another friend admitted her own difficulties with reading as much as she used to, especially fiction. According to her there is enough drama going on around the world, so she didn't feel to read fictionalized drama.
There was one who said he 'prefer to experience real life rather than reading about it in books.' As for this kind of people who think their lives are more interesting and so diverse to give them all the wisdom and emotional skills to direct them through our increasingly complex societies, then I cannot shatter their sweet illusion. So here I want to address those who really want to read but somehow they can't.
There is a difference in reading online news and articles and reading a book. I mean the long-form (books or novels) and shorter pieces (online news and articles). Our cognitive processes are such that we read quicker and with less comprehension and retention when scrolling through short online articles, blogs, and news and clicking on link after link. Though I also read a lot online (news, book reviews, author interviews, etc.), books remains my primary source of knowledge and thoughts. Reading is not only about improving quality of our lives but also the quality of the attention we pay to the things and people in our daily lives. It changes our ways of engaging with the people and being in the world.
Here I'm suggesting some approaches to rekindle and cultivate the habit of reading. It's better to find a way for a regular reading practice organically rather than forcing yourself to read.
Move to Books from Online Articles
If you enjoy reading online about some specific topics, look for the best books published on those topics online or at your local library or bookstore. Don't forget to check the writer's name of that article you liked reading online as they might have books published too. You will get a deeper and more considered dive into those topics in book-length works. Also ask booksellers and librarian about the book on that topic you liked as they truly enjoy engaging with readers and recommend specific kinds of books. If you're living where there is no library or a bookstore nearby, you can join online library and download books on an electronic device.
Move to Books from Movies
If you enjoy movies, look for those adapted from a book and then read that book. If possible (I insist) don't watch movie before you read the book. By a little search in Google, You can find the movies based on books which are already released or will release in near future. Once you are done with that book, try to watch movie adaptation, and you'll realize what you were missing while watching only movie and not reading book.
Read Literature on Travelling
If travelling is your thing, look for books written about or around the next place you are planning to visit. Read those books before, during, and after your trip. It will make the whole travelling experience richer and more satisfying. Often, travel books are about going down the beaten path and it not only enlighten but also encourage us to wander the unknown places.
Read Short Stories
If book-length fiction is frightening you, then pick a short story book. You can usually finish them in a single sitting but they can stimulate your appetite for longer book-length fiction works. There are so many wonderful short stories available online. These short stories can leverage your regular reading habit.
Read with friends
If you can't read alone or need company while reading, Join or start a book club. I personally prefer reading alone but I enjoy those odd book discussions with readers in Book clubs. If you can't find book club nearby you, you can find it online. I love to discuss the books online with the readers from across the world. It fascinates me how differently we all interpret the same book and I always learn something new. Another way is find a friend who likes to read, and ask him (or make him) to read the same book you want to read or read the same book he is reading and then discuss chapter by chapter. This will make you understand and enjoy the book at another level.
Buy an e-Reader
If you are strapped for time, invest in an e-reader or a good audiobook membership. Then you can read while waiting in the grocery checkout line, during daily commutes, or while doing daily chores. You will be amazed to know that you have this much time for reading which was wasted. So recuperate some of this time and use it in reading.
Start a Journal
Begin to write a books journal daily where you write about whatever you've read that day. This will help you to form your thoughts and reflections on the topics and themes you've read about, which is the whole point of reading after all. Write in a private journal or in an online blog, whichever suits you.
Set Reading Goals
If goal achievements and quantified self-hood drives you, then sign up on a website like Goodreads or LibraryThing to log every book you read by date, you can also add rating based on how much liked that book. I use one of these sites to keep track of my personal library and to read list. Set daily goals for reading. Achieving these goals will encourage you to set bigger reading goals and achieve them.
Listen to Book Podcasts
Listen to some good book related podcasts, where they invite authors and discuss their books. I have, many times, bought a certain book after hearing its writer speak about it. There are many podcasts you can choose from. For short stories I like The New Yorker Fiction, The New Yorker Writer's Voice and NPR's Selected Shorts. And for authors' interviews, I prefer BBC World Book Club, CBC's Writers and Company, BBC Radio 4 Bookclub and The Guardian Books.
Attend the Literary events or Festivals
If there are any book related literary festivals near you, try to go there at least once a year. Every year we have a book fair and literature festival for a week, I never missed this event. I can't go there for whole week but I find time on weekend. Celebrating books with other readers is an exceptional delight.
Bonus Tips
Mix up your reading list with different genres and topics. There are many book recommendation websites out there and ours is one of them. Subscribe us for getting regular book recommendation and get yourself a book interests you most. You can read one book at a time or can pick multiple books from different genres and read few pages or chapters from each book every day. Do not try to keep reading the book you have lost interest in. It will kill your enthusiasm and passion for reading. There are so many books out there on every imaginable topics and themes, so drop that book and pick another one.
Reading book is a personal investment that will pay off in long run. The Best books go beyond the education, entertainment, and altering perspectives. It helps us to develop and strengthen our cognitive and emotional muscles to deal better with whatever comes on our way.
This article was published on https://www.bookishelf.com The Bookish Elf is all about the passion for books and reading, knowledge and perception. We are a small group of readers who want the world to know what we read and what they should read.
We'll love to hear pieces of advice, appreciation or criticism. You can send us all your queries and suggestions by filling the form on the Contact us page or mailing us on: contact@bookishelf.com. We'll be grateful for each word of feedback received from you.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mitul_Patel/2563463
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9965069
We have published an article about how to read more books. Now this post is for those who used to read in past and now stopped it for some reasons. Recently a friend asked how he could start reading habit. When I asked him what kinds of books he liked to read, his answer surprised me that he couldn't remember the last time he had read an entire book but he read a lot of news and stuffs online. Another friend admitted her own difficulties with reading as much as she used to, especially fiction. According to her there is enough drama going on around the world, so she didn't feel to read fictionalized drama.
There was one who said he 'prefer to experience real life rather than reading about it in books.' As for this kind of people who think their lives are more interesting and so diverse to give them all the wisdom and emotional skills to direct them through our increasingly complex societies, then I cannot shatter their sweet illusion. So here I want to address those who really want to read but somehow they can't.
There is a difference in reading online news and articles and reading a book. I mean the long-form (books or novels) and shorter pieces (online news and articles). Our cognitive processes are such that we read quicker and with less comprehension and retention when scrolling through short online articles, blogs, and news and clicking on link after link. Though I also read a lot online (news, book reviews, author interviews, etc.), books remains my primary source of knowledge and thoughts. Reading is not only about improving quality of our lives but also the quality of the attention we pay to the things and people in our daily lives. It changes our ways of engaging with the people and being in the world.
Here I'm suggesting some approaches to rekindle and cultivate the habit of reading. It's better to find a way for a regular reading practice organically rather than forcing yourself to read.
Move to Books from Online Articles
If you enjoy reading online about some specific topics, look for the best books published on those topics online or at your local library or bookstore. Don't forget to check the writer's name of that article you liked reading online as they might have books published too. You will get a deeper and more considered dive into those topics in book-length works. Also ask booksellers and librarian about the book on that topic you liked as they truly enjoy engaging with readers and recommend specific kinds of books. If you're living where there is no library or a bookstore nearby, you can join online library and download books on an electronic device.
Move to Books from Movies
If you enjoy movies, look for those adapted from a book and then read that book. If possible (I insist) don't watch movie before you read the book. By a little search in Google, You can find the movies based on books which are already released or will release in near future. Once you are done with that book, try to watch movie adaptation, and you'll realize what you were missing while watching only movie and not reading book.
Read Literature on Travelling
If travelling is your thing, look for books written about or around the next place you are planning to visit. Read those books before, during, and after your trip. It will make the whole travelling experience richer and more satisfying. Often, travel books are about going down the beaten path and it not only enlighten but also encourage us to wander the unknown places.
Read Short Stories
If book-length fiction is frightening you, then pick a short story book. You can usually finish them in a single sitting but they can stimulate your appetite for longer book-length fiction works. There are so many wonderful short stories available online. These short stories can leverage your regular reading habit.
Read with friends
If you can't read alone or need company while reading, Join or start a book club. I personally prefer reading alone but I enjoy those odd book discussions with readers in Book clubs. If you can't find book club nearby you, you can find it online. I love to discuss the books online with the readers from across the world. It fascinates me how differently we all interpret the same book and I always learn something new. Another way is find a friend who likes to read, and ask him (or make him) to read the same book you want to read or read the same book he is reading and then discuss chapter by chapter. This will make you understand and enjoy the book at another level.
Buy an e-Reader
If you are strapped for time, invest in an e-reader or a good audiobook membership. Then you can read while waiting in the grocery checkout line, during daily commutes, or while doing daily chores. You will be amazed to know that you have this much time for reading which was wasted. So recuperate some of this time and use it in reading.
Start a Journal
Begin to write a books journal daily where you write about whatever you've read that day. This will help you to form your thoughts and reflections on the topics and themes you've read about, which is the whole point of reading after all. Write in a private journal or in an online blog, whichever suits you.
Set Reading Goals
If goal achievements and quantified self-hood drives you, then sign up on a website like Goodreads or LibraryThing to log every book you read by date, you can also add rating based on how much liked that book. I use one of these sites to keep track of my personal library and to read list. Set daily goals for reading. Achieving these goals will encourage you to set bigger reading goals and achieve them.
Listen to Book Podcasts
Listen to some good book related podcasts, where they invite authors and discuss their books. I have, many times, bought a certain book after hearing its writer speak about it. There are many podcasts you can choose from. For short stories I like The New Yorker Fiction, The New Yorker Writer's Voice and NPR's Selected Shorts. And for authors' interviews, I prefer BBC World Book Club, CBC's Writers and Company, BBC Radio 4 Bookclub and The Guardian Books.
Attend the Literary events or Festivals
If there are any book related literary festivals near you, try to go there at least once a year. Every year we have a book fair and literature festival for a week, I never missed this event. I can't go there for whole week but I find time on weekend. Celebrating books with other readers is an exceptional delight.
Bonus Tips
Mix up your reading list with different genres and topics. There are many book recommendation websites out there and ours is one of them. Subscribe us for getting regular book recommendation and get yourself a book interests you most. You can read one book at a time or can pick multiple books from different genres and read few pages or chapters from each book every day. Do not try to keep reading the book you have lost interest in. It will kill your enthusiasm and passion for reading. There are so many books out there on every imaginable topics and themes, so drop that book and pick another one.
Reading book is a personal investment that will pay off in long run. The Best books go beyond the education, entertainment, and altering perspectives. It helps us to develop and strengthen our cognitive and emotional muscles to deal better with whatever comes on our way.
This article was published on https://www.bookishelf.com The Bookish Elf is all about the passion for books and reading, knowledge and perception. We are a small group of readers who want the world to know what we read and what they should read.
We'll love to hear pieces of advice, appreciation or criticism. You can send us all your queries and suggestions by filling the form on the Contact us page or mailing us on: contact@bookishelf.com. We'll be grateful for each word of feedback received from you.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mitul_Patel/2563463
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9965069
Wednesday, 20 May 2020
Top Tips to Manage Your Time in Social Isolation
We're living in unprecedented times. From our health, income, education, ability to travel, no one has been exempt from the impact of this global pandemic. So excuse yourself if you have an occasional melt down. It's understandable under the circumstances. We don't know how long it will last, what the outcome will be. All we can manage is how we react and learn to take each day as it comes.
Practise daily gratitude. A positive, thankful approach is the key to improving unfortunate circumstances. Start each day by being thankful; for waking up, for having a roof over your head, running water, electricity, your health, your family and friends. Times like this often bring out the best in people, so be thankful for the people who check to ask if you're okay, the opportunities you have to walk each day, to slow right down, spend time with your family. Okay, this situation is tough, but you can improve it by appreciating the good in your life.
Take care of yourself. That way others don't have to worry about you and you're in a better position to take care of those who need your attention. Self-care requires both mental and physical stimulus, so reading, games, work, study and physical exercise are an important part of your commitment to yourself. Getting enough sleep and not staying up all hours or over-sleeping are also important.
Explore available options. Might this be a good opportunity to learn another language, refresh an existing skill, diversify? If you've free time you could turn it to your advantage by investigating and even training in a new interest or skill.
Help others. Those little gestures, the phone call, bunch of flowers on the doorstep, the 'thinking of you' greeting card can make all the difference to someone's day. And when you shop for essentials or go online for support remember your local small traders are relying on your custom to survive.
Keep to a regular routine. It's tough when your normal life has been thrown into disarray and added unexpected worries and concerns. But it helps when you re-establish some order in your life. Get up at the same time, shower, put fresh clothes on, designate certain times for work. Some people even have their children wear their school uniforms, which helps them appreciate that this is not an extended school holiday and that they have to do some actual school work!
Don't allow the children to dominate your life and run you ragged. Start as you mean to go on and introduce one of the great online exercise classes to burn off some energy, but also have quiet time too where they read, paint, do some chores or crafts and give you a little space.
Stay hydrated and eat healthily. Keeping your fluid intake up is important. Virus's thrive in your mouth and throat so drinking hot/warm water regularly, perhaps adding fresh lemon, ginger and honey, can help to keep your airways clear. Maintain a good diet, including fresh fruit and vegetables. The supermarkets are doing a sterling job of frequently restocking.
And manage your alcohol intake. When we're feeling fed up it's tempting to go down the wine'o'clock route, but it doesn't help and you'll feel worse afterwards, as you will if you stock up on treats like cakes, biscuits and chocolates and then binge eat the lot in an afternoon!
Manage your time on social media and the news sites. There's plenty of fake news, naysayers and doom merchants out there, feeding us gloomy prophecies, images and statistics. Yes, check in once or twice a day but don't allow depressing information to be drip-fed into your home and life on a regular basis. Remember, you're in control!
Stay connected. There are plenty of groups using skype, zoom, what's app, Facebook to stay connected and be supportive of each other. Keep in touch with the people who are important in your life. Many businesses are finding effective, alternative ways to contact their clients and hold meetings, run training sessions and still work.
If you've a partner give each other space. It can be challenging to spend 24/7 in each other's company, especially if you've only ever done that on holidays or at Christmas. Post-holiday and post-Christmas anyway are the busiest times for divorce lawyers! So if you don't want to fall into that category ensure that you agree to not do everything together. Maybe one shops for food, walks the dog, works in the study, goes for a quiet read, potters in the garden, has a leisurely bath. Make allowances for each other's low mood at times. Give each other personal time.
Stay positive. A good perspective and sense of humour are lifesavers, especially at the moment. Social media, used well, can help lighten the mood. When you dip in and see the fun, imaginative ways people respond to daily themes or news stories it can brighten the day. Or laughing at some of your unfortunate attempts at baking, DIY or making something work can keep a pleasant light-hearted atmosphere.
If you find you're struggling maybe keep a journal and write down how you're feeling. It can help to get things down on paper, and writing is more effective than using your laptop. Avoid running 'what-if' and worst case scenarios in your mind. Intercept those by distracting yourself; move, dance, sing, phone a positive friend for an upbeat chat. Aim to accomplish one positive task each day, from tidying your sock drawer, cleaning the windows or even sorting your emails. Then you have a regular achievement to feel good about.
We're all trying our best to get through these exceptional times. Let's support each other and do it together.
Susan Leigh, counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support.
She's author of 3 books, 'Dealing with Stress, Managing its Impact', '101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday' and 'Dealing with Death, Coping with the Pain', all on Amazon & with easy to read sections, tips and ideas to help you feel more positive about your life.
To order a copy or for more information, help and free articles visit http://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Susan_Leigh/399535
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10276132
Practise daily gratitude. A positive, thankful approach is the key to improving unfortunate circumstances. Start each day by being thankful; for waking up, for having a roof over your head, running water, electricity, your health, your family and friends. Times like this often bring out the best in people, so be thankful for the people who check to ask if you're okay, the opportunities you have to walk each day, to slow right down, spend time with your family. Okay, this situation is tough, but you can improve it by appreciating the good in your life.
Take care of yourself. That way others don't have to worry about you and you're in a better position to take care of those who need your attention. Self-care requires both mental and physical stimulus, so reading, games, work, study and physical exercise are an important part of your commitment to yourself. Getting enough sleep and not staying up all hours or over-sleeping are also important.
Explore available options. Might this be a good opportunity to learn another language, refresh an existing skill, diversify? If you've free time you could turn it to your advantage by investigating and even training in a new interest or skill.
Help others. Those little gestures, the phone call, bunch of flowers on the doorstep, the 'thinking of you' greeting card can make all the difference to someone's day. And when you shop for essentials or go online for support remember your local small traders are relying on your custom to survive.
Keep to a regular routine. It's tough when your normal life has been thrown into disarray and added unexpected worries and concerns. But it helps when you re-establish some order in your life. Get up at the same time, shower, put fresh clothes on, designate certain times for work. Some people even have their children wear their school uniforms, which helps them appreciate that this is not an extended school holiday and that they have to do some actual school work!
Don't allow the children to dominate your life and run you ragged. Start as you mean to go on and introduce one of the great online exercise classes to burn off some energy, but also have quiet time too where they read, paint, do some chores or crafts and give you a little space.
Stay hydrated and eat healthily. Keeping your fluid intake up is important. Virus's thrive in your mouth and throat so drinking hot/warm water regularly, perhaps adding fresh lemon, ginger and honey, can help to keep your airways clear. Maintain a good diet, including fresh fruit and vegetables. The supermarkets are doing a sterling job of frequently restocking.
And manage your alcohol intake. When we're feeling fed up it's tempting to go down the wine'o'clock route, but it doesn't help and you'll feel worse afterwards, as you will if you stock up on treats like cakes, biscuits and chocolates and then binge eat the lot in an afternoon!
Manage your time on social media and the news sites. There's plenty of fake news, naysayers and doom merchants out there, feeding us gloomy prophecies, images and statistics. Yes, check in once or twice a day but don't allow depressing information to be drip-fed into your home and life on a regular basis. Remember, you're in control!
Stay connected. There are plenty of groups using skype, zoom, what's app, Facebook to stay connected and be supportive of each other. Keep in touch with the people who are important in your life. Many businesses are finding effective, alternative ways to contact their clients and hold meetings, run training sessions and still work.
If you've a partner give each other space. It can be challenging to spend 24/7 in each other's company, especially if you've only ever done that on holidays or at Christmas. Post-holiday and post-Christmas anyway are the busiest times for divorce lawyers! So if you don't want to fall into that category ensure that you agree to not do everything together. Maybe one shops for food, walks the dog, works in the study, goes for a quiet read, potters in the garden, has a leisurely bath. Make allowances for each other's low mood at times. Give each other personal time.
Stay positive. A good perspective and sense of humour are lifesavers, especially at the moment. Social media, used well, can help lighten the mood. When you dip in and see the fun, imaginative ways people respond to daily themes or news stories it can brighten the day. Or laughing at some of your unfortunate attempts at baking, DIY or making something work can keep a pleasant light-hearted atmosphere.
If you find you're struggling maybe keep a journal and write down how you're feeling. It can help to get things down on paper, and writing is more effective than using your laptop. Avoid running 'what-if' and worst case scenarios in your mind. Intercept those by distracting yourself; move, dance, sing, phone a positive friend for an upbeat chat. Aim to accomplish one positive task each day, from tidying your sock drawer, cleaning the windows or even sorting your emails. Then you have a regular achievement to feel good about.
We're all trying our best to get through these exceptional times. Let's support each other and do it together.
Susan Leigh, counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support.
She's author of 3 books, 'Dealing with Stress, Managing its Impact', '101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday' and 'Dealing with Death, Coping with the Pain', all on Amazon & with easy to read sections, tips and ideas to help you feel more positive about your life.
To order a copy or for more information, help and free articles visit http://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Susan_Leigh/399535
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10276132
Tuesday, 19 May 2020
Is Determination Alone Enough to Change Those Bad Habits?
Most of us are taught that if we try hard enough we can accomplish any goal. But sometimes, when we've spent years reinforcing a habit, determination isn't going to be enough to change that pattern. Of course being determined is an essential ingredient in changing your habits but in my 20 years of mentoring and coaching entrepreneurs I can guarantee you, it's not enough!
Here's why...
Your habits are a direct result of your beliefs.
No matter how determined you are to do things right, if your beliefs are not congruent with the ACTION you need to take, no amount of pushing, forcing and challenging yourself will be sustainable. You'll most likely see a change for a few days, a quick burst of momentum but within 10 - 21 days you will slide right back to those hold habits.
That's because your core beliefs energetically match the actions you take (or don't take).
If you tend to procrastinate on business growth activity, chances are you have conflicted beliefs about success.
Or maybe you aren't courageous enough to charge more for your offerings. But you look around and notice that many are charging more - a LOT more! So you think to yourself, "There is no way that could work for me - no one would ever pay me more." Or you'll ruminate about it for a while and come to the conclusion, "I just can't do it - what if no one buys at that price?"
If we were to follow that line of thinking we'd probably uncover that on some deep level you have a limiting belief around what you are worth.
Here's another example...
Your coach shows you how to organize your time more effectively. You KNOW what you should be doing each day to get traction but somehow every day you get sucked into a bunch of distractions and low pay off activities.
You know you SHOULD do things differently but you ARE NOT doing it. Why? Because deep down inside you are in conflict about success. You think you want to make more money or have a successful business but you've been carrying around this belief - what we might call a story - about what would happen!
You fear what you would have to give up - family time, your freedom, a hobby or maybe even your deep belief that you aren't good enough.
You fear what people might think - you think you are better than they are or that you are evil.
And you might even worry that giving your business everything you've got could blow up. What if it DOESN'T work? What will people think?
So how does one actually change habits permanently?
You've got to recode your beliefs, the internal thought patterns and ideas that shape your decision making, in order to up-level the actions or habits you take. Sometimes you can shift instantly by becoming aware of the belief that is dictating your actions - sometimes you need guidance to identify the correct limiting beliefs so you can and recode it.
Another approach is to make a list of all the beliefs, stories and excuses you tell yourself in order to keep that habit alive. Then, each time you catch yourself in your old habit, ask yourself, "What am I telling myself right now to keep this habit? Is it really true or am I just telling myself this?" That should help you break down the old habit. Be sure to instantly replace the old habit with a new one that is more aligned with your ideal outcome!
Suspect you may have limiting beliefs or habits that get in the way of your success?
Author, Profit Amplifier and business growth mentor Melanie Benson can help! Click this link for access to more info on how to crush your money game on Amplify Your Success Podcast. Or take our Hidden Profit Drains Quiz at Hidden Profit Drains to uncover what's REALLY in the way.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Melanie_Benson/492876
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7938191
Here's why...
Your habits are a direct result of your beliefs.
No matter how determined you are to do things right, if your beliefs are not congruent with the ACTION you need to take, no amount of pushing, forcing and challenging yourself will be sustainable. You'll most likely see a change for a few days, a quick burst of momentum but within 10 - 21 days you will slide right back to those hold habits.
That's because your core beliefs energetically match the actions you take (or don't take).
If you tend to procrastinate on business growth activity, chances are you have conflicted beliefs about success.
Or maybe you aren't courageous enough to charge more for your offerings. But you look around and notice that many are charging more - a LOT more! So you think to yourself, "There is no way that could work for me - no one would ever pay me more." Or you'll ruminate about it for a while and come to the conclusion, "I just can't do it - what if no one buys at that price?"
If we were to follow that line of thinking we'd probably uncover that on some deep level you have a limiting belief around what you are worth.
Here's another example...
Your coach shows you how to organize your time more effectively. You KNOW what you should be doing each day to get traction but somehow every day you get sucked into a bunch of distractions and low pay off activities.
You know you SHOULD do things differently but you ARE NOT doing it. Why? Because deep down inside you are in conflict about success. You think you want to make more money or have a successful business but you've been carrying around this belief - what we might call a story - about what would happen!
You fear what you would have to give up - family time, your freedom, a hobby or maybe even your deep belief that you aren't good enough.
You fear what people might think - you think you are better than they are or that you are evil.
And you might even worry that giving your business everything you've got could blow up. What if it DOESN'T work? What will people think?
So how does one actually change habits permanently?
You've got to recode your beliefs, the internal thought patterns and ideas that shape your decision making, in order to up-level the actions or habits you take. Sometimes you can shift instantly by becoming aware of the belief that is dictating your actions - sometimes you need guidance to identify the correct limiting beliefs so you can and recode it.
Another approach is to make a list of all the beliefs, stories and excuses you tell yourself in order to keep that habit alive. Then, each time you catch yourself in your old habit, ask yourself, "What am I telling myself right now to keep this habit? Is it really true or am I just telling myself this?" That should help you break down the old habit. Be sure to instantly replace the old habit with a new one that is more aligned with your ideal outcome!
Suspect you may have limiting beliefs or habits that get in the way of your success?
Author, Profit Amplifier and business growth mentor Melanie Benson can help! Click this link for access to more info on how to crush your money game on Amplify Your Success Podcast. Or take our Hidden Profit Drains Quiz at Hidden Profit Drains to uncover what's REALLY in the way.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Melanie_Benson/492876
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7938191
Monday, 18 May 2020
Don't Put Off Beating Procrastination
If you want to write something - whether that's a novel, a self-help book or an email autoresponder campaign - there's one thing you have to do.
You have to put pen to paper, so to speak.
Because all the best writing skills and ideas won't get you very far. At some point, you have to create something.
But, for many folk, something inside blocks them.
They procrastinate.
The hypnotists among you will know this isn't always a big deal. Often I've procrastinated on something because my unconscious mind was telling me I wasn't ready yet. In fact, I'm procrastinating on a project like that right now.
Having said that, the hypnotists among you also know sometimes your unconscious mind "protects" you from failure by never letting you try.
I leave it to you to decide whether you're procrastinating for the right reasons or the wrong ones.
If it's the wrong ones, and you want to get down to work, then here's what's worked for me...
But before I get into that, why should you care what works for me?
Because I'm a natural procrastinator, easily distracted by shiny new ideas. It used to be so bad I could never do much I wasn't forced to. It's a lot better now, though that spectre isn't off my back. I still find myself goofing off, even when I have a deadline.
Even so, I've learned to sit down and churn out a lot of great content.
I'm not a naturally productive person, if there even is such a thing. I train my mind to create by facing the causes of procrastination head on:
Clarity
One of the causes of "good" procrastination can be one of the more frustrating:
A lack of clarity.
This is a strange thing. Often our ideas seem so clear to us. When you close your eyes, you can see it. Then, when you go to create it, you realise what you have in mind is just a phantom. What you had in mind was closer to a felt sense than a blueprint.
If you're procrastinating, this might be why. Your unconscious doesn't have a firm grasp of what you need to do yet, so it doesn't motivate you into taking action.
Even if it wanted to, it couldn't.
Solution: map out what you want to create. Explain it aloud to someone or at least yourself. You'll quickly notice any areas that need fleshing out.
Priority
Let's say you're now clear on what you need to do.
When you have a lot to do, it can be hard to know where to start.
You start thinking about designing your website... but maybe you should write the sales letter first so you know what it'll look like... hang on, have you done enough market research yet?
After clarity comes priority - you know what the end result will look like, but that doesn't mean you know how to get there.
When you have a hundred tasks that all need doing, where do you start? You could pick on at random... only to have your mind constantly interrupt.
"What about X?"
"Don't forget to do Y before you publish!"
With a head that noisy, no wonder you don't get much done.
Solution: you don't want to ignore these interruptions - they tell you vital things. Write them down. Make a note of what needs doing before what, and what has a deadline. Sort your tasks by priority and work your way through them.
Overwhelm
You're clear on what needs doing and when. But when you look at your list of tasks, you get this sinking feeling inside you.
It's common to procrastinate when there's just so much to do.
You might find the big picture overwhelming, thinking ahead to all that you need to accomplish.
Or you might look at today's list of tasks and think there's no way to get through them all.
If failure is inevitable, why fight it?
I won't indulge a broken premise. You haven't failed until you've quit.
Maybe your list of tasks needs tweaking. Or maybe you really do have to get through all this. Either way, you'll be surprised what you can accomplish once you get typing.
Solution: the best approach I've ever come across is the Pomodoro technique. Set a timer and work without distractions for 20 minutes. When the timer goes off, take a quick break. Stretch your legs, have a cup of tea. Then get back into it.
That's not all there is to teach you about your victory over procrastination. There are other causes of it, so there are other techniques for resolving it.
And there's more to learning to write like a demon than even all that.
You can learn everything you need right here, at no cost when you use my affiliate link:
https://skl.sh/2PymK9O
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/William_T_Batten/2522089
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10276210
You have to put pen to paper, so to speak.
Because all the best writing skills and ideas won't get you very far. At some point, you have to create something.
But, for many folk, something inside blocks them.
They procrastinate.
The hypnotists among you will know this isn't always a big deal. Often I've procrastinated on something because my unconscious mind was telling me I wasn't ready yet. In fact, I'm procrastinating on a project like that right now.
Having said that, the hypnotists among you also know sometimes your unconscious mind "protects" you from failure by never letting you try.
I leave it to you to decide whether you're procrastinating for the right reasons or the wrong ones.
If it's the wrong ones, and you want to get down to work, then here's what's worked for me...
But before I get into that, why should you care what works for me?
Because I'm a natural procrastinator, easily distracted by shiny new ideas. It used to be so bad I could never do much I wasn't forced to. It's a lot better now, though that spectre isn't off my back. I still find myself goofing off, even when I have a deadline.
Even so, I've learned to sit down and churn out a lot of great content.
I'm not a naturally productive person, if there even is such a thing. I train my mind to create by facing the causes of procrastination head on:
Clarity
One of the causes of "good" procrastination can be one of the more frustrating:
A lack of clarity.
This is a strange thing. Often our ideas seem so clear to us. When you close your eyes, you can see it. Then, when you go to create it, you realise what you have in mind is just a phantom. What you had in mind was closer to a felt sense than a blueprint.
If you're procrastinating, this might be why. Your unconscious doesn't have a firm grasp of what you need to do yet, so it doesn't motivate you into taking action.
Even if it wanted to, it couldn't.
Solution: map out what you want to create. Explain it aloud to someone or at least yourself. You'll quickly notice any areas that need fleshing out.
Priority
Let's say you're now clear on what you need to do.
When you have a lot to do, it can be hard to know where to start.
You start thinking about designing your website... but maybe you should write the sales letter first so you know what it'll look like... hang on, have you done enough market research yet?
After clarity comes priority - you know what the end result will look like, but that doesn't mean you know how to get there.
When you have a hundred tasks that all need doing, where do you start? You could pick on at random... only to have your mind constantly interrupt.
"What about X?"
"Don't forget to do Y before you publish!"
With a head that noisy, no wonder you don't get much done.
Solution: you don't want to ignore these interruptions - they tell you vital things. Write them down. Make a note of what needs doing before what, and what has a deadline. Sort your tasks by priority and work your way through them.
Overwhelm
You're clear on what needs doing and when. But when you look at your list of tasks, you get this sinking feeling inside you.
It's common to procrastinate when there's just so much to do.
You might find the big picture overwhelming, thinking ahead to all that you need to accomplish.
Or you might look at today's list of tasks and think there's no way to get through them all.
If failure is inevitable, why fight it?
I won't indulge a broken premise. You haven't failed until you've quit.
Maybe your list of tasks needs tweaking. Or maybe you really do have to get through all this. Either way, you'll be surprised what you can accomplish once you get typing.
Solution: the best approach I've ever come across is the Pomodoro technique. Set a timer and work without distractions for 20 minutes. When the timer goes off, take a quick break. Stretch your legs, have a cup of tea. Then get back into it.
That's not all there is to teach you about your victory over procrastination. There are other causes of it, so there are other techniques for resolving it.
And there's more to learning to write like a demon than even all that.
You can learn everything you need right here, at no cost when you use my affiliate link:
https://skl.sh/2PymK9O
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/William_T_Batten/2522089
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10276210
Friday, 15 May 2020
The Rich Look like Beggars, and the Beggars Look like Kings
By: Jon Morrow
If you saw my father on a normal day, you'd feel sorry for him. His clothes are worn and coated with a mosaic of dirt, paint, and other unidentifiables. His boots are solid blocks of mud. His head is covered with a worn-out baseball cap, usually soaked in sweat.
You'd think he was a beggar. But he's not. He's one of the wealthiest and fastest growing landowners in northern Mississippi.
Movies and television have created a stereotype of the millionaire, and like most stereotypes, it's completely false. Rich people don't drive fancy cars, live in mansions, or cart around entourages of sexy playthings.
They know better. As one of my most successful mentors told me, "Getting rich is not about how much money spend, but about how much money you keep."
To illustrate, here are some comments from my investors:
A car payment? Why, I can't remember the last time I made one.
About a year ago, my father invited all of our investors to a private conference in his home near Memphis, TN. You've never seen so many rich people. If you tallied up the net worth of everyone in the room, I'm sure you'd go well over $100 million.
When I drove up to the house though, all I could do was laugh. Looking at all of the cars in the driveway, you'd think you were at a retirement home. The newest car in the driveway was from 1998. The majority of them were models from the 80s... and older. None of them were freshly detailed or flashy. You would have never guessed that all of them were owned by millionaires.
Talking to the investors about them was also interesting. I didn't ask everyone about their car, but the few I talked with told me they'd paid for the car in full a long time ago. They were also focused on regularly maintaining the car. Performance was just as important as price.
Buy a mansion? God no. Who needs all that space?
Knowing how to leverage their money and tax benefits, you'd think millionaire real estate investors would live in huge houses. But you'd be fooled, once again. Most of the millionaires I know live in modest houses in good neighborhoods. The average value is probably around $300,000.
They also own the houses debt free. Usually, they bought their house years ago for a steal in a good area, and then they lived there while it appreciated. To properly leverage their equity, they keep credit lines open, so they can take advantage of short-term opportunities.
Wear a suit? No, I prefer to work in my underwear
Through a series of coincidences over the years, I've learned that nearly all of my investors work in their underwear or pajamas. When they're forced to leave the house, they usually wear sweats or khakis. During the past five years, I've never seen one of them wearing a suit.
They have three reasons:
Cost. Dry cleaning is expensive. You save money by dressing down.
Practicality. Investors deal with a wide range of less fortunate people that distrust people in suits.
Comfort. Suits are uncomfortable, so unless you have to impress your banker, stay comfortable.
The Moral of the Story: Live like a Millionaire and You'll Become One
Not surprisingly, the most successful real estate investors I know are the most frugal people I know. I'm not talking about being miserly either. They live exceptionally well, but they do it with less money and more attention to practicality than pizzazz. If you want to get rich, act like them. Start living below your means and you'll see your wealth grow much faster.
Also, I've learned to be suspicious of people driving fancy cars and living in huge houses. While some are genuinely wealthy, most are in debt up to their eyeballs. They're usually insecure people, trying desperately to convince everyone they're rich. To use a metaphor:
You can judge a book by it's cover, but remember, the classics are rarely new and shiny. Their faded covers are evidence of their survival and their tattered pages were created by the hands of countless loving fans.
Author Bio
Jon Morrow is the owner of Real Estate... Answered, a web site that answers dozens of questions about real estate investment for free. He also manages over $20 million of real estate investments in three states, focusing on luxury homes and multimillion dollar transactions.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content
If you saw my father on a normal day, you'd feel sorry for him. His clothes are worn and coated with a mosaic of dirt, paint, and other unidentifiables. His boots are solid blocks of mud. His head is covered with a worn-out baseball cap, usually soaked in sweat.
You'd think he was a beggar. But he's not. He's one of the wealthiest and fastest growing landowners in northern Mississippi.
Movies and television have created a stereotype of the millionaire, and like most stereotypes, it's completely false. Rich people don't drive fancy cars, live in mansions, or cart around entourages of sexy playthings.
They know better. As one of my most successful mentors told me, "Getting rich is not about how much money spend, but about how much money you keep."
To illustrate, here are some comments from my investors:
A car payment? Why, I can't remember the last time I made one.
About a year ago, my father invited all of our investors to a private conference in his home near Memphis, TN. You've never seen so many rich people. If you tallied up the net worth of everyone in the room, I'm sure you'd go well over $100 million.
When I drove up to the house though, all I could do was laugh. Looking at all of the cars in the driveway, you'd think you were at a retirement home. The newest car in the driveway was from 1998. The majority of them were models from the 80s... and older. None of them were freshly detailed or flashy. You would have never guessed that all of them were owned by millionaires.
Talking to the investors about them was also interesting. I didn't ask everyone about their car, but the few I talked with told me they'd paid for the car in full a long time ago. They were also focused on regularly maintaining the car. Performance was just as important as price.
Buy a mansion? God no. Who needs all that space?
Knowing how to leverage their money and tax benefits, you'd think millionaire real estate investors would live in huge houses. But you'd be fooled, once again. Most of the millionaires I know live in modest houses in good neighborhoods. The average value is probably around $300,000.
They also own the houses debt free. Usually, they bought their house years ago for a steal in a good area, and then they lived there while it appreciated. To properly leverage their equity, they keep credit lines open, so they can take advantage of short-term opportunities.
Wear a suit? No, I prefer to work in my underwear
Through a series of coincidences over the years, I've learned that nearly all of my investors work in their underwear or pajamas. When they're forced to leave the house, they usually wear sweats or khakis. During the past five years, I've never seen one of them wearing a suit.
They have three reasons:
Cost. Dry cleaning is expensive. You save money by dressing down.
Practicality. Investors deal with a wide range of less fortunate people that distrust people in suits.
Comfort. Suits are uncomfortable, so unless you have to impress your banker, stay comfortable.
The Moral of the Story: Live like a Millionaire and You'll Become One
Not surprisingly, the most successful real estate investors I know are the most frugal people I know. I'm not talking about being miserly either. They live exceptionally well, but they do it with less money and more attention to practicality than pizzazz. If you want to get rich, act like them. Start living below your means and you'll see your wealth grow much faster.
Also, I've learned to be suspicious of people driving fancy cars and living in huge houses. While some are genuinely wealthy, most are in debt up to their eyeballs. They're usually insecure people, trying desperately to convince everyone they're rich. To use a metaphor:
You can judge a book by it's cover, but remember, the classics are rarely new and shiny. Their faded covers are evidence of their survival and their tattered pages were created by the hands of countless loving fans.
Author Bio
Jon Morrow is the owner of Real Estate... Answered, a web site that answers dozens of questions about real estate investment for free. He also manages over $20 million of real estate investments in three states, focusing on luxury homes and multimillion dollar transactions.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content
Saturday, 9 May 2020
Friday, 8 May 2020
Six More Quick Tips to Reduce Stress
Stress affects us all in different ways at different times, to different degrees and for different reasons. It could be something relatively trivial or due to a more significant cause. Either way, it is important to try to reduce stress otherwise it can get out of control and affect your health. Here are six quick tips which can help to reduce and manage stress. I hope you find them useful.
Tip 1: Have a You Day
This may sound obvious - we all need some alone time for ourselves to try to get away from things for a while.
Life is tough enough with all the demands it places on us which in turn can cause stress as life gets on top of us.
Make a conscious effort to split yourself of some time for YOU.
No distractions, turn off the laptop, turn off the mobile - your you time is for YOU - nobody else.
Then do whatever you feel like doing that makes you feel happy and less stressed.
That might be reading a book, listening to your favourite music, generally chilling out.
Find the time to switch off for a while and you'll feel better for it.
Tip 2: Your Happy Place
Another quick stress reduction tip is when the going gets tough to imagine yourself in your happy place.
We've all got one (or perhaps more than one) - imagine you are there and how it makes you feel.
This is sometimes known as guided imagery and has been around for hundreds of years.
If you want to get in to it seriously there are guided imagery therapists and practitioners you could see.
Or you can buy up guided imagery books and CDs.
And of course there's good old YouTube for videos.
Guided imagery goes hand-in-hand with meditation which is another technique to help with stress reduction and management.
Tip 3: Clean and De-Clutter
A clean and tidy home (silly as it may sound) can help with stress reduction and management.
Sift through everything you have and identify what you do need/has value to you and what does not - be brutal - what can you live without.
Anything you can live without or no longer need you may be able to sell online or donate to charity.
Next clean the house - not necessarily all in one go (you can if you want to of course) - perhaps a room at a time.
Just the exercise involved in cleaning will stimulate hormones which help to make you feel good.
To help pass the time whilst you clean put on your favourite CD.
A clean and tidy home makes you feel better too doesn't it?
Tip 4: Digital De-Clutter
Now you have de-cluttered and cleaned the house, it's time to do the same for your digital life.
Emails, social media, the pressure for instant replies, more likes, more Twitter followers and keeping on top of all that can be stressful in itself - right?
So have a digital clean up and de-clutter.
Remove yourself from email lists you do not need to be on.
Turn off notifications, alters and similar which you do not need.
Set aside specific times of the day to check your emails instead of constantly (may not apply to work emails of course).
And turn everything off (or at least on silent) before bedtime because you don't need to be awoken throughout the night with emails pinging in and social media alters popping up.
Tip #5: Relaxing Sounds
This stress reduction tip ties in with the happy place tip we looked at earlier.
The right sort of sound can help you to relax and de-stress.
Just like closing your eyes and going to your happy place, listening to a relaxing sound for a while can have the same effect.
It might be bird song, waterfalls, gentle waves breaking, whale song and similar - whatever works for you.
Any number of relaxation sound CDs, streaming and downloads available everywhere.
Plug yourself in, listen, relax and feel the stress leave you.
Tip #6: Meditate
A spot of meditation can help tremendously with stress reduction and your state of mind in general.
This can be a simple as sitting down, clearing your mind and doing some repeated deep breathing.
In for four seconds to fill your lungs, hold, breathe out slowly and repeat for a few minutes.
Not unlike being in your happy place we touched on earlier.
If you fancy getting in to meditation and you have a smartphone there are any number of meditation apps to download.
And of course any number of books, videos etc.
In addition to helping reduce stress, meditation can help with anxiety depression and high blood pressure.
Start now. Take some action. One step at a time. Do not procrastinate
There is no right or wrong order in which to try these stress reduction tips. See which work for you.
You may be interested to explore stress reduction techniques further in more depth. To do that, here is a video course containing nine stress reduction action plan s. It is available on Skillshare and you can access it today by clicking here.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andy_Machin/16946
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10284733
Thursday, 7 May 2020
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