This time last week, I was enjoying another Easter Sunday and time spent with friends and extended family. Over the last week, I have done quite a bit of reflecting through conversations with friends and family about what's important. Amazing, how when you look back in time to see what you valued only to see how things change as you mature.
My thoughts have been all across the board the last couple of days, but I think I may have landed on something to make you think. I can't help but be reminded of something that I learned from my advisor Dr. Chris Jeffries back at Jackson State. He taught me about the TANSTAFL(there ain't no such thing as a free lunch) principle the first day of my Economics 101 class. Over the years, I have continued to use this principle as I weigh the opportunity cost of any decisions that I make.
It is not to any surprise that I see my thoughts revolving around chance and opportunity. The terms are interchangeable to a certain degree, but I want to focus on chance considering the word is shorter with less syllables.(Don't judge me I have my reasons for keeping it simple)
How many times have you wanted a second chance at something? Have you ever felt that you squandered away your one chance at something? Are you prepared for any opportunity that may come your way?
They say that chance/luck is when preparation meets opportunity, but often times we haven't prepared ourselves to be ready when we are given that chance. Regardless of what aspect of our lives the chance to do something arrives in, in that moment we have the opportunity to make the most of it as it may not come around again.
Not sure how many people saw the story on ESPN where Heisman Trophy Finalist Trent Richardson took a leukemia survivor to their high school prom in Alabama. The story itself was touching and seeing Trent Richardson talk about how he had a chance to make a difference in the life of someone as well as attend a prom considering he never went to his. As I watched this story I thought to myself am I making the most of all the chances that life is given me to make a difference.
On the job, at home, in our relationships, or our spirituality we have a chance to do better. Yesterday has happened, and tomorrow will bring us another chance to make the most of our opportunities. So what we didn't live up to all the promises of yesterday, dust ourselves off and embrace the chance to be better. No matter what you are going through, you have to remember that there's always a chance/opportunity to do better. Yesterday does not have to define you and the past does have to imprison you as tomorrow is your chance to move forward.
Are you afraid of taking chances in your personal life? Your career? Your relationships?
Are you ready for your chance to be more? To do more? Do you make the most of your chance at a good first impression?
Has anyone blown their chance for you to be on their team? Have you blown the chance to be on someone else's team?
As you prepare to move forward into another week, remember that only you can push yourself to make the most of your chances. Positive thoughts breed positive actions and adopting the #PositiveMovementsForward lifestyle can make all the difference. Go forward and make it an amazing week people as you deserve it.
“Hope is the most exciting thing in life and if you honestly believe that love is out there, it will come. And even if it doesn't come straight away there is still that chance all through your life that it will.” Josh Hartnett
“It is by chance that we met, by choice that we became friends.”
“It's the heart afraid of breaking that never learns to dance. It is the dream afraid of waking that never takes the chance. It is the one who won't be taken who cannot seem to give. And the soul afraid of dying that never learns to live.” Bette Midler
“Consider how hard it is to change yourself and you'll understand what little chance you have in trying to change others.”
“I will study and get ready, and perhaps my chance will come.” Abraham Lincoln
“Dream what you want to dream; go where you want to go; be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you want to do.”
“Take a chance! All life is a chance. The man who goes farthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare.” Dale Carnegie
“You never get a second chance to make a first impression”
“All human actions have one or more of these seven causes: chance, nature, compulsions, habit, reason, passion and desire.” Aristotle
“A truly great person is the one who gives you a chance.”
“When a man is pushed, tormented, defeated, he has a chance to learn something” Ralph Waldo Emerson
“If you are never scared, embarrassed or hurt, it means you never take chances” Julia Soul
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Tuesday Evening Thoughts on "Enduring Through it All" 4/3/12
The Tuesday before Easter and all appears to be well in the world before the Valley of the Sun turns into one of the hottest places on the planet. I can't do anything but enjoy the cooler temperatures before they begin to creep closer to triple digits. My initial indicators tell me that it is going to be a very very warm spring and summer.
I am not going to lie and tell you that the last 7 days hasn't been challenging, but as I look at where I am now I see that I made it through. It really doesn't matter what is going on if you have it in your heart and mind you can push through anything. It all starts in the mind and you have to believe that you will see the light at the end of the tunnel. Often times I think we always just hear the phrase there's a light at the end of the tunnel, but we don't always have 100% that we will see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Have you ever given up on something? Why do you think that was? Was it too painful to continue on with? Were you not ready to go forward? Were you missing something?
As a country, history shows us that we have endured a lot as a whole and it has not been easy. Through the Women's Suffrage movement, the Civil Rights Movement, and many other moments over the years there has been pain, sacrifice, and struggle. None of these situations was easy, but through the pain and the resilience there has been growth. The evolution is present and we still have room to grow as there is still elements of discomfort. When there is discomfort it means we are growing and things are changing.
I talked about the world and hit on a few things that people have endured in the recent past. I want to dig a little deeper and explore a few things within my own existence that may open up the discussion further. In the 34 years that I have been living, I can pretty much confirm that anything worth having is worth the work put forth to attain it. The concept of what you put in is what you get out has never been more present than it is now. It seems as though everyone is out here dealing with their own struggles and there's no handouts to anyone as it is survival of the fittest.
I use the term "Survival of the Fittest" because as things change we have two choices to become an agent of change or a resistor to change. It is in that moment you choose the road you will be traveling on and what you are willing to endure. More often than not we don't look at obstacles as opportunities to use our past experiences to bring us through whatever it is we are dealing with. I can't help but think of this verse, 'Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.'
Maybe you haven't reached the summit of many different areas of your life, but you feel as though you can't go on any further. These experiences are preparing you for something amazing that was designed only for you. Are you willing to endure longer for the promise of something better in your life? Career? Family? Relationships?
Inside each and every one of us there's that one thing that we are willing to endure heartache, long suffering, or disappointment for in order to achieve something. What is that thing for you? Is it your family? Financial Security? Helping others? Why is it that you endure some of the things that you do? Do you believe in your heart that things will be better as a result of holding on?
If you are enduring some pain or heartache for anything there's a direct correlation with how much you care about what it is you are doing. If there wasn't would we even be trying to live through whatever it is instead of just letting go.
Positive thoughts breed positive actions and as we endure anything in life our mind has to be strong. Focus your energies on bringing the right thoughts into any situation as #PositiveMovementsForward will bring you through any darkness to walk straight into the light at the end of the tunnel. Live life and be amazing in every moment that you have. You have already prepared for the next moment, so just endure this one with a smile.
“Endure the present, and watch for better things.” Virgil
“I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars.” Og Mandino
“Those who endure conquer.”
“Enjoy what you can, endure what you must” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Life is truly known only to those who suffer, lose, endure adversity and stumble from defeat to defeat.” Anais Nin
“He who has a why can endure any how” Friedrich Nietzsche
“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Christopher Reeve
“You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.” Edward O. Wilson
“In the darkest hour the soul is replenished and given strength to continue and endure.”
I am not going to lie and tell you that the last 7 days hasn't been challenging, but as I look at where I am now I see that I made it through. It really doesn't matter what is going on if you have it in your heart and mind you can push through anything. It all starts in the mind and you have to believe that you will see the light at the end of the tunnel. Often times I think we always just hear the phrase there's a light at the end of the tunnel, but we don't always have 100% that we will see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Have you ever given up on something? Why do you think that was? Was it too painful to continue on with? Were you not ready to go forward? Were you missing something?
As a country, history shows us that we have endured a lot as a whole and it has not been easy. Through the Women's Suffrage movement, the Civil Rights Movement, and many other moments over the years there has been pain, sacrifice, and struggle. None of these situations was easy, but through the pain and the resilience there has been growth. The evolution is present and we still have room to grow as there is still elements of discomfort. When there is discomfort it means we are growing and things are changing.
I talked about the world and hit on a few things that people have endured in the recent past. I want to dig a little deeper and explore a few things within my own existence that may open up the discussion further. In the 34 years that I have been living, I can pretty much confirm that anything worth having is worth the work put forth to attain it. The concept of what you put in is what you get out has never been more present than it is now. It seems as though everyone is out here dealing with their own struggles and there's no handouts to anyone as it is survival of the fittest.
I use the term "Survival of the Fittest" because as things change we have two choices to become an agent of change or a resistor to change. It is in that moment you choose the road you will be traveling on and what you are willing to endure. More often than not we don't look at obstacles as opportunities to use our past experiences to bring us through whatever it is we are dealing with. I can't help but think of this verse, 'Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.'
Maybe you haven't reached the summit of many different areas of your life, but you feel as though you can't go on any further. These experiences are preparing you for something amazing that was designed only for you. Are you willing to endure longer for the promise of something better in your life? Career? Family? Relationships?
Inside each and every one of us there's that one thing that we are willing to endure heartache, long suffering, or disappointment for in order to achieve something. What is that thing for you? Is it your family? Financial Security? Helping others? Why is it that you endure some of the things that you do? Do you believe in your heart that things will be better as a result of holding on?
If you are enduring some pain or heartache for anything there's a direct correlation with how much you care about what it is you are doing. If there wasn't would we even be trying to live through whatever it is instead of just letting go.
Positive thoughts breed positive actions and as we endure anything in life our mind has to be strong. Focus your energies on bringing the right thoughts into any situation as #PositiveMovementsForward will bring you through any darkness to walk straight into the light at the end of the tunnel. Live life and be amazing in every moment that you have. You have already prepared for the next moment, so just endure this one with a smile.
“Endure the present, and watch for better things.” Virgil
“I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars.” Og Mandino
“Those who endure conquer.”
“Enjoy what you can, endure what you must” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Life is truly known only to those who suffer, lose, endure adversity and stumble from defeat to defeat.” Anais Nin
“He who has a why can endure any how” Friedrich Nietzsche
“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Christopher Reeve
“You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.” Edward O. Wilson
“In the darkest hour the soul is replenished and given strength to continue and endure.”
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Over The Hump Thoughts on "Being Brilliant at the Basics" 3/29/12
The month of March is just about in the books and it means that a quarter of the year is gone. Like clockwork Wednesday come and gone and we've made it over the hump. It comes around every week and I have an idea of what lies on the other side, but getting to the other side isn't always the same.
This hump day was a little tough as my family comes together again with the unexpected passing of my dad's sister Tuesday. As always I am truly thankful for my extended family and friends who are praying for my family during this difficult time. I can't stress enough to anyone that I see or talk to to enjoy this moment as you just never know what opportunities you may have tomorrow.
A couple of days ago I had a few thoughts on the brain that I was really having trouble developing and didn't know where to go. I wasn't expecting my conversations the last couple of days to influence my thoughts, but ironically my interactions with my family helped me to expound on the thoughts that were lingering.
Over the course of time that I have been in the world, I have seen where most people want maximum results with minimal effort. Or everyone wants something for nothing. It is pretty simple and you can test the theory out in a lot of ways. You get out of something what you put into it. This pretty much applies all across the board in my book. I think have found the solution to having positive results or success in anything.
What are your core values? Do your core values influence your decisions about life? Career? Family? Relationships with people?
I remember in a few instances over the years people saying KISS which means "Keep It Simple Stupid." I am starting to understand more and more how important keeping things simple makes life so much easier. Even the most difficult things in life don't seem as hard to deal with when you really live the mindset of keeping things simple. No matter what we do in life from our conversations to our actions, there is a direct correlation all to our core values.
Right now, I don't know if I am talking to myself trying to get on board or I am accepting this amazing revelation that's always been here. Our core represents the basic things that make up who we are. Ask yourself these questions; Who are you? What do my core values say about me? How can I be a better me?
As I think about becoming a better me it's all about being "Brilliant at the Basics." In my book the basics should be present in every thing that when they aren't we should notice that some things seem off. Take a moment right now and look at where you are in life; Have you gotten away from the basics?
Think about your career? Your marriage? Relationships? Children? What were the essential building blocks that laid a foundation to embrace wonderful things down the road? I am willing to bet that a lot of things we are engaged in revolve around the golden rule.(Treat others as you would have them treat you or Do unto others as you would have them do you)
I am starting to learn that this thing called life isn't rocket science and its really pretty simple. The concept of "Being Brilliant at the Basics" exists in every facet of our lives, but we just have to embrace the simple concept and live it. How can you expect to be ready to deal with the amazing things coming for you if you can't deal with the basics?
Close your eyes take a deep breath and focus on getting back to the basics in order to position yourself to get where you want to be. I know that the core of MY being revolves around altruism, family, friends, and my faith. I have learned that I can not nor will not be successful in anything if any of those things are not present. I challenge you to really figure out what those things are for you.
So the formula is pretty simple in my book. "Being Brilliant at the Basics" + lifestyle of #PositiveMovementsForward = One Amazing life for you and all those around you!
Make it a great rest of the week folks. Live life and be amazing.
“Consideration for others is the basic of a good life, a good society.” Confucius
“Every sale has five basic obstacles: no need, no money, no hurry, no desire, no trust.” Zig Ziglar
“Success is neither magical nor mysterious. Success is the natural consequence of consistently applying the basic fundamentals.” Jim Rohn
“The basic difference between an ordinary man and a warrior is that a warrior takes everything as a challenge while an ordinary man takes everything either as a blessing or a curse” Carlos Casteneda
“Here is the basic rule for winning success. Let's mark it in the mind and remember it. The rule is: Success depends on the support of other people. The only hurdle between you and what you want to be in is the support of other people.” David Joseph Schwartz
“The basic rule of free enterprise: You must give in order to get.” Scott Alexander
“The character ethic, which I believe to be the foundation of success, teaches that there are basic principles of effective living, and that people can only experience true success and enduring happiness as they learn and integrate these principles into their basic character.” Stephen Covey
“Many of life's circumstances are created by three basic choices: the disciplines you choose to keep, the people you choose to be with; and, the laws you choose to obey” Charles Millhuff
“The family is the most basic unit of government. As the first community to which a person is attached and the first authority under which a person learns to live, the family establishes society's most basic values.” Charles Caleb Colton
“Of the billionaires I have known, money just brings out the basic traits in them. If they were jerks before they had money, they are simply jerks with a billion dollars.” Warren Buffett
This hump day was a little tough as my family comes together again with the unexpected passing of my dad's sister Tuesday. As always I am truly thankful for my extended family and friends who are praying for my family during this difficult time. I can't stress enough to anyone that I see or talk to to enjoy this moment as you just never know what opportunities you may have tomorrow.
A couple of days ago I had a few thoughts on the brain that I was really having trouble developing and didn't know where to go. I wasn't expecting my conversations the last couple of days to influence my thoughts, but ironically my interactions with my family helped me to expound on the thoughts that were lingering.
Over the course of time that I have been in the world, I have seen where most people want maximum results with minimal effort. Or everyone wants something for nothing. It is pretty simple and you can test the theory out in a lot of ways. You get out of something what you put into it. This pretty much applies all across the board in my book. I think have found the solution to having positive results or success in anything.
What are your core values? Do your core values influence your decisions about life? Career? Family? Relationships with people?
I remember in a few instances over the years people saying KISS which means "Keep It Simple Stupid." I am starting to understand more and more how important keeping things simple makes life so much easier. Even the most difficult things in life don't seem as hard to deal with when you really live the mindset of keeping things simple. No matter what we do in life from our conversations to our actions, there is a direct correlation all to our core values.
Right now, I don't know if I am talking to myself trying to get on board or I am accepting this amazing revelation that's always been here. Our core represents the basic things that make up who we are. Ask yourself these questions; Who are you? What do my core values say about me? How can I be a better me?
As I think about becoming a better me it's all about being "Brilliant at the Basics." In my book the basics should be present in every thing that when they aren't we should notice that some things seem off. Take a moment right now and look at where you are in life; Have you gotten away from the basics?
Think about your career? Your marriage? Relationships? Children? What were the essential building blocks that laid a foundation to embrace wonderful things down the road? I am willing to bet that a lot of things we are engaged in revolve around the golden rule.(Treat others as you would have them treat you or Do unto others as you would have them do you)
I am starting to learn that this thing called life isn't rocket science and its really pretty simple. The concept of "Being Brilliant at the Basics" exists in every facet of our lives, but we just have to embrace the simple concept and live it. How can you expect to be ready to deal with the amazing things coming for you if you can't deal with the basics?
Close your eyes take a deep breath and focus on getting back to the basics in order to position yourself to get where you want to be. I know that the core of MY being revolves around altruism, family, friends, and my faith. I have learned that I can not nor will not be successful in anything if any of those things are not present. I challenge you to really figure out what those things are for you.
So the formula is pretty simple in my book. "Being Brilliant at the Basics" + lifestyle of #PositiveMovementsForward = One Amazing life for you and all those around you!
Make it a great rest of the week folks. Live life and be amazing.
“Consideration for others is the basic of a good life, a good society.” Confucius
“Every sale has five basic obstacles: no need, no money, no hurry, no desire, no trust.” Zig Ziglar
“Success is neither magical nor mysterious. Success is the natural consequence of consistently applying the basic fundamentals.” Jim Rohn
“The basic difference between an ordinary man and a warrior is that a warrior takes everything as a challenge while an ordinary man takes everything either as a blessing or a curse” Carlos Casteneda
“Here is the basic rule for winning success. Let's mark it in the mind and remember it. The rule is: Success depends on the support of other people. The only hurdle between you and what you want to be in is the support of other people.” David Joseph Schwartz
“The basic rule of free enterprise: You must give in order to get.” Scott Alexander
“The character ethic, which I believe to be the foundation of success, teaches that there are basic principles of effective living, and that people can only experience true success and enduring happiness as they learn and integrate these principles into their basic character.” Stephen Covey
“Many of life's circumstances are created by three basic choices: the disciplines you choose to keep, the people you choose to be with; and, the laws you choose to obey” Charles Millhuff
“The family is the most basic unit of government. As the first community to which a person is attached and the first authority under which a person learns to live, the family establishes society's most basic values.” Charles Caleb Colton
“Of the billionaires I have known, money just brings out the basic traits in them. If they were jerks before they had money, they are simply jerks with a billion dollars.” Warren Buffett
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Tuesday Morning Thoughts Before Day on "What are you missing" 3/20/12
The sun isn't quite up yet and I probably have about another couple of hours before the sun comes peeking through my window. The weather here in the Valley of the Sun is still pretty crazy as in the last 72 hours I have seen almost 80 degrees, a hail storm, and temperatures drop to the 40's.
Another sleepless night and my mind is fully engaged in a few deep thoughts that may just propel me to the next level. Last week I wrote about moving forward and I believe I still have a few lingering thoughts about the topic.
Take a look at your life right now and ask yourself a few questions. Have I missed anything? What is it I am missing? Is there something that missed me? Am I missing someone?
Probably asked myself these questions a million times as it seems like moving forward is sometimes difficult when I feel as though I'm missing something. Have you ever packed for a trip or prepared to go somewhere and you couldn't quite leave cause you felt like there was something you forgot to do or pack? Or have you ever been in the kitchen preparing something and it seems a little off and you realized that it is missing a little something?
We encounter a lot of moments in life that remind us that we might be missing something, but the question is what do we do in those moments. Lately, I have been doing a lot of reflection about the time I spent with my great-grandparents. I really don't know a lot of people that can say they spent 30 years with their great-grandfather, but I can say it cause I lived it. I miss the conversations, the lessons, and the visits that I will always have memories of, but its still a lot missing for me. I feel as though I lost a lot, but through my reflection I have gained a lot of wisdom.
Sometimes looking back on the things we miss gives us another opportunity to gain perspective on the lessons that were there. If we get to a point and we realize that we are missing something it is not hard to see that it means/meant something to us.
Is there something that you missed that may be keeping you from moving forward? Have you missed any opportunities in your job? With your relationships? With your family? In life period?
Often times we are so focused on some things that may not really matter as much as we think they do. Ask the father who missed his child's first words or first steps. Ask the mother who missed her son's first touchdown playing on the varsity team. I use those examples to show that sometimes there are some moments that just can't be recreated.
Have you ever found yourself sitting back saying, "I can't believe I missed that," or "What would have happened if I would not have missed that?" There is no DVR in life and we can't pause or rewind the moments to ensure that we don't miss anything. Sometimes it is as simple as refocusing our energies in a different area to keep us on track.
As you move forward, challenge yourself to live the life you have imagined on all levels. Find the balance that allows you to maximize your opportunities with all those things that you are truly passionate about. If you choose to adopt the #PositiveMovementsForward lifestyle I know that you will begin to see noticeable differences in your days.
Let's welcome the 1st day of spring choosing to take advantage of every opportunity to live life and be amazing! Make it a great week folks.
“Time goes by so fast, people go in and out of your life. You must never miss the opportunity to tell these people how much they mean to you.”
“Plenty of people miss their share of happiness, not because they never found it, but because they didn't stop to enjoy it.”
-William Feather
“Don't worry about failure. Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try.”
“Shoot for the moon and if you miss you will still be among the stars.”
-Les Brown
“Don't miss all the beautiful colors of the rainbow looking for that pot of gold.”
“Don't get too comfortable with who you are at any given time - you may miss the opportunity to become who you want to be.”
-Jon Bon Jovi
“We may run, walk, stumble, drive, or fly, but let us never lost sight of the reason for the journey, or miss a chance to see a rainbow on the way.”
“Opportunities are like sunrises -- if you wait too long, you miss them.”
-William Arthur Ward
“You never miss the water till the well has run dry.”
-Irish Proverb
Another sleepless night and my mind is fully engaged in a few deep thoughts that may just propel me to the next level. Last week I wrote about moving forward and I believe I still have a few lingering thoughts about the topic.
Take a look at your life right now and ask yourself a few questions. Have I missed anything? What is it I am missing? Is there something that missed me? Am I missing someone?
Probably asked myself these questions a million times as it seems like moving forward is sometimes difficult when I feel as though I'm missing something. Have you ever packed for a trip or prepared to go somewhere and you couldn't quite leave cause you felt like there was something you forgot to do or pack? Or have you ever been in the kitchen preparing something and it seems a little off and you realized that it is missing a little something?
We encounter a lot of moments in life that remind us that we might be missing something, but the question is what do we do in those moments. Lately, I have been doing a lot of reflection about the time I spent with my great-grandparents. I really don't know a lot of people that can say they spent 30 years with their great-grandfather, but I can say it cause I lived it. I miss the conversations, the lessons, and the visits that I will always have memories of, but its still a lot missing for me. I feel as though I lost a lot, but through my reflection I have gained a lot of wisdom.
Sometimes looking back on the things we miss gives us another opportunity to gain perspective on the lessons that were there. If we get to a point and we realize that we are missing something it is not hard to see that it means/meant something to us.
Is there something that you missed that may be keeping you from moving forward? Have you missed any opportunities in your job? With your relationships? With your family? In life period?
Often times we are so focused on some things that may not really matter as much as we think they do. Ask the father who missed his child's first words or first steps. Ask the mother who missed her son's first touchdown playing on the varsity team. I use those examples to show that sometimes there are some moments that just can't be recreated.
Have you ever found yourself sitting back saying, "I can't believe I missed that," or "What would have happened if I would not have missed that?" There is no DVR in life and we can't pause or rewind the moments to ensure that we don't miss anything. Sometimes it is as simple as refocusing our energies in a different area to keep us on track.
As you move forward, challenge yourself to live the life you have imagined on all levels. Find the balance that allows you to maximize your opportunities with all those things that you are truly passionate about. If you choose to adopt the #PositiveMovementsForward lifestyle I know that you will begin to see noticeable differences in your days.
Let's welcome the 1st day of spring choosing to take advantage of every opportunity to live life and be amazing! Make it a great week folks.
“Time goes by so fast, people go in and out of your life. You must never miss the opportunity to tell these people how much they mean to you.”
“Plenty of people miss their share of happiness, not because they never found it, but because they didn't stop to enjoy it.”
-William Feather
“Don't worry about failure. Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try.”
“Shoot for the moon and if you miss you will still be among the stars.”
-Les Brown
“Don't miss all the beautiful colors of the rainbow looking for that pot of gold.”
“Don't get too comfortable with who you are at any given time - you may miss the opportunity to become who you want to be.”
-Jon Bon Jovi
“We may run, walk, stumble, drive, or fly, but let us never lost sight of the reason for the journey, or miss a chance to see a rainbow on the way.”
“Opportunities are like sunrises -- if you wait too long, you miss them.”
-William Arthur Ward
“You never miss the water till the well has run dry.”
-Irish Proverb
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Tuesday Afternoon Thoughts on "Moving Forward" 03/13/12
My my my where did the week, let alone the weekend go. It seemed as though the week seemed to breeze by as I swear that it was just last Monday a day or so ago. I guess time flies when you are having fun, so I am probably having the time of my life right now. I haven't slept a lot the several nights, so I decided to put my time to use and put my thoughts on paper.
Although the weekend went by fast, I do think I accomplished a lot. I built a few new relationships and had some great conversations visiting with my brother and mother over the last couple of days.
Seems like no matter where I go, I find myself engaged in conversations that are related to a lot of my thoughts these days. I assume that reason is that I have a lot of experiences to share on the topic. Maybe there are takeaways or others or even that I can learn a little something from their situation.
Have you ever been in a situation where you felt it was difficult to move forward? Does it feel like you have gone through life and become stuck in a moment? Position? Lifestyle? Environment? Relationship?
Interestingly enough, I have been asking myself these questions quite a bit lately. The more I talk and share with others, the easier it is for me to see all the lessons that are present in every moment that we live in. The difficulty of anything is that most people hold onto the moments too long and often get the lesson later on instead of in the moment. How different would things be if we were able to move forward in "Real Time" and not at a later time? I think we can, but it takes really being in tune with ourselves to focused to not allow a moment, people, or situation to keep us from moving forward.
If you look at the world, there are several certainties that will always exist no matter what happens. Time does not standstill and is always moving forward so it is in our best interests to keep our moments in real time. In addition to time, our thoughts will always exist and we need to be carrying the right thoughts forward. Our thoughts are very infectious that's why the phrase, "Positive Thoughts Breed Positive Actions," exists.
I could sit here and tell myself that I am always moving forward, never looking back, or never getting stuck in a moment, but I would be lying to myself. What I can confidently say is that I have found a way to move forward anytime that I get stuck in anything/moment. If you haven't figured it out by now, sharing my thoughts is very therapeutic for me. I am not going to say it is always easy, but I do know that it is possible.
So I challenge you to figure out what that thing is that gives you that push or that little bit of encouragement when you are stuck in a moment, negative thoughts, or a situation. No matter what it is, it doesn't matter as long as it works for you.
I bet that if I told 100 people that there was something amazing waiting for them if they just opened the door, 40% of them still wouldn't be confident enough to walk through it. What about you, would you move forward or just wait until someone else opened the door?
There isn't a thing in life that we encounter that isn't infectious. Remember that it all starts in the mind and you can do amazing things if you allow them to happen. Adopt the #PositiveMovementsForward lifestyle and watch how things start to change for you and everyone around you.
Take a moment today to send positive vibes out through your actions, conversation, and your smile. It is not hard to live life and be amazing.
Is there anything holding you back right now? People? Relationships? Job? Are you ready to move forward? Do you need any help moving forward? So now its up to you in order to move forward to make it happen. If you are ready, let's go!!!!!!
“Playing safe is probably the most unsafe thing in the world. You cannot stand still. You must go forward.” Robert Collier
“We all have our time machines. Some take us back, they're called memories. Some take us forward, they're called dreams.” Jeremy Irons
“Getting over a painful experience is much like crossing monkey bars. You have to let go at some point in order to move forward.”
“Don't dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding the answer.” Denis Waitley
“We should regret our mistakes and learn from them, but never carry them forward into the future with us.” Lucy Maud Montgomery
“Meditation brings wisdom; lack of mediation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what hold you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.” Buddha
“All of life is a journey which paths we take, what we look back on, and what we look forward to is up to us. We determine our destination, what kind of road we will take to get there, and how happy we are when we get there.”
“Enduring setbacks while maintaining the ability to show others the way to go forward is a true test of leadership.” Nita Nohria
“March on. Do not tarry. To go forward is to move toward perfection. March on, and fear not the thorns, or the sharp stones on life's path.” Kahlil Gibran
“One fails forward toward success.” Charles Kettering
“The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.”
Although the weekend went by fast, I do think I accomplished a lot. I built a few new relationships and had some great conversations visiting with my brother and mother over the last couple of days.
Seems like no matter where I go, I find myself engaged in conversations that are related to a lot of my thoughts these days. I assume that reason is that I have a lot of experiences to share on the topic. Maybe there are takeaways or others or even that I can learn a little something from their situation.
Have you ever been in a situation where you felt it was difficult to move forward? Does it feel like you have gone through life and become stuck in a moment? Position? Lifestyle? Environment? Relationship?
Interestingly enough, I have been asking myself these questions quite a bit lately. The more I talk and share with others, the easier it is for me to see all the lessons that are present in every moment that we live in. The difficulty of anything is that most people hold onto the moments too long and often get the lesson later on instead of in the moment. How different would things be if we were able to move forward in "Real Time" and not at a later time? I think we can, but it takes really being in tune with ourselves to focused to not allow a moment, people, or situation to keep us from moving forward.
If you look at the world, there are several certainties that will always exist no matter what happens. Time does not standstill and is always moving forward so it is in our best interests to keep our moments in real time. In addition to time, our thoughts will always exist and we need to be carrying the right thoughts forward. Our thoughts are very infectious that's why the phrase, "Positive Thoughts Breed Positive Actions," exists.
I could sit here and tell myself that I am always moving forward, never looking back, or never getting stuck in a moment, but I would be lying to myself. What I can confidently say is that I have found a way to move forward anytime that I get stuck in anything/moment. If you haven't figured it out by now, sharing my thoughts is very therapeutic for me. I am not going to say it is always easy, but I do know that it is possible.
So I challenge you to figure out what that thing is that gives you that push or that little bit of encouragement when you are stuck in a moment, negative thoughts, or a situation. No matter what it is, it doesn't matter as long as it works for you.
I bet that if I told 100 people that there was something amazing waiting for them if they just opened the door, 40% of them still wouldn't be confident enough to walk through it. What about you, would you move forward or just wait until someone else opened the door?
There isn't a thing in life that we encounter that isn't infectious. Remember that it all starts in the mind and you can do amazing things if you allow them to happen. Adopt the #PositiveMovementsForward lifestyle and watch how things start to change for you and everyone around you.
Take a moment today to send positive vibes out through your actions, conversation, and your smile. It is not hard to live life and be amazing.
Is there anything holding you back right now? People? Relationships? Job? Are you ready to move forward? Do you need any help moving forward? So now its up to you in order to move forward to make it happen. If you are ready, let's go!!!!!!
“Playing safe is probably the most unsafe thing in the world. You cannot stand still. You must go forward.” Robert Collier
“We all have our time machines. Some take us back, they're called memories. Some take us forward, they're called dreams.” Jeremy Irons
“Getting over a painful experience is much like crossing monkey bars. You have to let go at some point in order to move forward.”
“Don't dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding the answer.” Denis Waitley
“We should regret our mistakes and learn from them, but never carry them forward into the future with us.” Lucy Maud Montgomery
“Meditation brings wisdom; lack of mediation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what hold you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.” Buddha
“All of life is a journey which paths we take, what we look back on, and what we look forward to is up to us. We determine our destination, what kind of road we will take to get there, and how happy we are when we get there.”
“Enduring setbacks while maintaining the ability to show others the way to go forward is a true test of leadership.” Nita Nohria
“March on. Do not tarry. To go forward is to move toward perfection. March on, and fear not the thorns, or the sharp stones on life's path.” Kahlil Gibran
“One fails forward toward success.” Charles Kettering
“The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.”
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Thursday Evening Thoughts on "Recognizing the Moment" 03/1/12
Wow, we are already in the month of March! Where has the year gone? Maybe, the fun that I have experienced so far this year has me not aware of how fast the time is flying by. I do know that looking outside at the weather in the Valley of the Sun reminds me of why I love living here 90% of the time.
Looking at the calendar, it is very hard to believe that it has been almost a year since I made one of the toughest decisions that I have ever made in my life. I can't lie and say that I haven't reflected a lot over the last year, but I recognize that I am in a better place right now. You probably are going to see a lot more of that word as 'Recognize' has been stuck in my head for the last couple of days.
Life teaches us a lot when we take the time to recognize everything that is going on around us. As I look at the future leaders of tomorrow I am still very fearful of the power that we are leaving in the hands of those ill equipped to handle it. So the question I ask now is do you recognize that there are some concerns for all of us as we look to the future?
There have been several conversations that I have engaged in recently that have influenced my thoughts. I was talking to a very close female friend of mine today as I told her how she has raised the bar for any female that I allow into my life in the future. While we exchanged compliments back and forth to one another, it was very apparent that we both recognized some amazing things in each other. This is part of one of the last messages that she sent me and I felt very humbled after receiving it, ":) ur a powerful man and u r rising to the occasion that is ur life ;) proud of u!"
Earlier this afternoon I was talking with one of the many mothers(Ms. Allen) that have called me son over the years about life and such. It is quite ironic that we ended up talking about the future leaders of tomorrow and how they aren't recognizing the opportunities that are in front of them. I was saddened in the conversation to learn about an experience in a grocery store recently where the young cashier did not have the simple math skills to count out the change. I am sure that there are other examples out there like this, but regardless it is sad to think about what young people are willing to accept. What is it going to take for people to recognize that I can do better? Better yet, what is it going to take for the switch to click saying I need to do better?
I was a kid once and I understand what it means to feel like everyone is riding you to do your best, but at this point in my life I truly appreciate it all. If it wasn't for the people I grew up with and my family I don't know that I would be able to recognize all the opportunities that are in front of me to encourage/motivate people to reach their peak.
The longer I live I see that as a society we don't recognize enough of the right things to build the relationships that are necessary to help people. Think about the things you see on the job most managers notice the weaknesses of their people and aren't able to capitalize on their strengths in order to in time minimize their weaknesses. I feel as though people are conditioned to recognize faults way more than potential. I believe that it is this type of thinking that lays the foundation for failure and not success.
My thoughts are probably all across the board right now, but I ultimately they are centered around this moment and how it can influence tomorrow. I have a few more questions that I will ask myself right now to gain more clarity.
What have you recognized in this moment? Are you where you want to be? Are you the person that you want to be? Have you taken a moment out to let someone know that you appreciate them? Do you recognize the opportunities in front of you? Do you recognize that the past does not have to define you now or in the future? Do you see that now is a moment that you can never get back?
I got pretty caught up in all the different avenues that I could have taken with recognize, but it really is all about recognizing all that you have in this very moment. No one knows what the next moment will be or if it will ever come so you have to capitalize on it all right now. Let today serve as the beginning of something amazing in your life.
As we move closer to the weekend, let it all hang out, live life, and be amazing. Remember that #POSITIVEMOVEMENTSFORWARD is a way of life and you attract what you think.
“To recognize opportunity is the difference between success and failure.”
“There is something that is much more scarce, something finer far, something rarer than ability. It is the ability to recognize ability.” Elbert Hubbard
“If you know, to recognize that you know, If you don't know, to realize that you don't know: That is knowledge.” Confucius
“Eagles come in all shapes and sizes, but you will recognize them chiefly by their attitudes.” E. F. Schumacher
“In quiet moments when you think about it, you recognize what is critically important in life and what isn't. Be wise and don't let good things crowd out those that are essential.” Elder Richard G. Scott
“It is important that you recognize your progress and take pride in your accomplishments. Share your achievements with others. Brag a little. The recognition and support of those around you is nurturing.” Rosemarie Rossetti
“Every moment is a golden one for him who has the vision to recognize it as such” Henry Miller
“I've continued to recognize the power individuals have to change virtually anything and everything in their lives in an instant. I've learned that the resources we need to turn our dreams into reality are within us, merely waiting for the day when we decide to wake up and claim our birthright.” Anthony Robbins
“Experience is that marvellous thing that enable you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.” Franklin Jones
“Always recognize that human individuals are ends, and do not use them as means to your end.” Immanuel Kant
“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” Maya Angelou
Looking at the calendar, it is very hard to believe that it has been almost a year since I made one of the toughest decisions that I have ever made in my life. I can't lie and say that I haven't reflected a lot over the last year, but I recognize that I am in a better place right now. You probably are going to see a lot more of that word as 'Recognize' has been stuck in my head for the last couple of days.
Life teaches us a lot when we take the time to recognize everything that is going on around us. As I look at the future leaders of tomorrow I am still very fearful of the power that we are leaving in the hands of those ill equipped to handle it. So the question I ask now is do you recognize that there are some concerns for all of us as we look to the future?
There have been several conversations that I have engaged in recently that have influenced my thoughts. I was talking to a very close female friend of mine today as I told her how she has raised the bar for any female that I allow into my life in the future. While we exchanged compliments back and forth to one another, it was very apparent that we both recognized some amazing things in each other. This is part of one of the last messages that she sent me and I felt very humbled after receiving it, ":) ur a powerful man and u r rising to the occasion that is ur life ;) proud of u!"
Earlier this afternoon I was talking with one of the many mothers(Ms. Allen) that have called me son over the years about life and such. It is quite ironic that we ended up talking about the future leaders of tomorrow and how they aren't recognizing the opportunities that are in front of them. I was saddened in the conversation to learn about an experience in a grocery store recently where the young cashier did not have the simple math skills to count out the change. I am sure that there are other examples out there like this, but regardless it is sad to think about what young people are willing to accept. What is it going to take for people to recognize that I can do better? Better yet, what is it going to take for the switch to click saying I need to do better?
I was a kid once and I understand what it means to feel like everyone is riding you to do your best, but at this point in my life I truly appreciate it all. If it wasn't for the people I grew up with and my family I don't know that I would be able to recognize all the opportunities that are in front of me to encourage/motivate people to reach their peak.
The longer I live I see that as a society we don't recognize enough of the right things to build the relationships that are necessary to help people. Think about the things you see on the job most managers notice the weaknesses of their people and aren't able to capitalize on their strengths in order to in time minimize their weaknesses. I feel as though people are conditioned to recognize faults way more than potential. I believe that it is this type of thinking that lays the foundation for failure and not success.
My thoughts are probably all across the board right now, but I ultimately they are centered around this moment and how it can influence tomorrow. I have a few more questions that I will ask myself right now to gain more clarity.
What have you recognized in this moment? Are you where you want to be? Are you the person that you want to be? Have you taken a moment out to let someone know that you appreciate them? Do you recognize the opportunities in front of you? Do you recognize that the past does not have to define you now or in the future? Do you see that now is a moment that you can never get back?
I got pretty caught up in all the different avenues that I could have taken with recognize, but it really is all about recognizing all that you have in this very moment. No one knows what the next moment will be or if it will ever come so you have to capitalize on it all right now. Let today serve as the beginning of something amazing in your life.
As we move closer to the weekend, let it all hang out, live life, and be amazing. Remember that #POSITIVEMOVEMENTSFORWARD is a way of life and you attract what you think.
“To recognize opportunity is the difference between success and failure.”
“There is something that is much more scarce, something finer far, something rarer than ability. It is the ability to recognize ability.” Elbert Hubbard
“If you know, to recognize that you know, If you don't know, to realize that you don't know: That is knowledge.” Confucius
“Eagles come in all shapes and sizes, but you will recognize them chiefly by their attitudes.” E. F. Schumacher
“In quiet moments when you think about it, you recognize what is critically important in life and what isn't. Be wise and don't let good things crowd out those that are essential.” Elder Richard G. Scott
“It is important that you recognize your progress and take pride in your accomplishments. Share your achievements with others. Brag a little. The recognition and support of those around you is nurturing.” Rosemarie Rossetti
“Every moment is a golden one for him who has the vision to recognize it as such” Henry Miller
“I've continued to recognize the power individuals have to change virtually anything and everything in their lives in an instant. I've learned that the resources we need to turn our dreams into reality are within us, merely waiting for the day when we decide to wake up and claim our birthright.” Anthony Robbins
“Experience is that marvellous thing that enable you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.” Franklin Jones
“Always recognize that human individuals are ends, and do not use them as means to your end.” Immanuel Kant
“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” Maya Angelou
Fat Tuesday Thoughts on "Acknowledgment & Value 02/21/12
Taking a break and relaxing on my day off is one of the best things I could have wanted on this Fat Tuesday. The day got off to an amazing start as I was able to speak with some very special people before my day officially kicked off.
Five years ago, my little niece Morgan was born and she has been pretty amazing since. With every day that she is here I am able to see her growth and how she learns about her surroundings. I try not to miss a birthday/holiday at least speaking to her or her big sister on the phone. It was quite a wonderful feeling speaking to this little princess on the phone today wishing her a "Happy 5th Birthday!" I could only smile as we talked about her birthday and how I know everyone was excited to wish her a happy birthday. Surprisingly enough, she interrupted me to say, "Well, how does everyone know? Oh, you called them, but what if you called the wrong number?" I think in that instant I was like this is one of the things that I live my life for.
This is probably the first example that will easily allow me to expound on my thoughts about acknowledgment and value. This morning I also received a random message from a young lady who was complimenting me by telling me that I should be teaching a class to show young men how to treat ladies. I smiled, thought it was interesting and wondered where it was coming from. Seems like over a period of time she has been watching me in the day to day and has noticed a few things. She found some value in some things that she witnessed and didn't mind acknowledging me for being who I am.
I look at these two examples and begin to think about the things that I am willing to acknowledge in my life. I have to wonder why is it that I do acknowledge some things today? I believe that it does have something to do with what it is that I value. As I look at calling my niece to wish her a Happy 5th birthday being one of the most important things that I needed to do today, it very apparent of the value I place on my relationships with the people I love. I acknowledge how important it is for people to know how much they mean to right now.
So as I continue to think about acknowledgment and value, I have a few questions that I have posed to myself. Why do you acknowledge some things and not others? How is your value system related to acknowledgment? Based on where you are right now in life, have you acknowledged how you got here? Do you value the experiences that brought you to this moment? Is there acknowledgment without value? Is there value without acknowledgment?
You may be surprised at some of your answers to the questions if you are willing to think about the concepts for a second. I have learned that if we are willing to acknowledge the majority of things that happen in our lives, they all have value either in that moment or in the future. What I am thinking right now is bigger than just experiences, but mainly living in this moment making the most of right now. If we were to take our blinders off and acknowledge this moment and value every second that NOW has afforded us, what a different place the world could be.
Although very simple, I have a few ideas that can be very infectious on society if you believe. Take a moment out of your day on a regular basis and acknowledge the ones that you care about and love. Show someone the value in treating people as you would like to be treated. Apply #POSITIVEMOVEMENTSFORWARD to every aspect of your life and watch how everything around you begins to change. Live life and be amazing now as why would you even put off realizing the benefits of this type of living.
“Our greatest strength as a human race is our ability to acknowledge our differences, our greatest weakness is our failure to embrace them.”
-Judith Henderson
“The value of compassion cannot be over-emphasized. Anyone can criticize. It takes a true believer to be compassionate. No greater burden can be borne by an individual than to know no one cares or understands.”
Arthur Stainback
“No one is willing to acknowledge a fault in himself when a more agreeable motive can be found for the estrangement of his acquaintances”
-Mark Twain
“Only the man who crosses the river at night knows the value of the light of day”
-Chinese Proverb
“No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.”
-Alfred North Whitehead
“Authentic values are those by which a life can be lived, which can form a people that produces great deeds and thoughts.”
-Allan Bloom
“You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.”
-Jim Stovall
“The hero is the man dedicated to the creation and / or defense of reality-conforming, life-promoting values.”
-Andrew Bernstein
“The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life, acknowledge the great powers around us and in us. If you can do that, and live that way, you are really a wise man.”
-Euripides
“Your true value depends entirely on what you are compared with.”
-Bob Wells
Five years ago, my little niece Morgan was born and she has been pretty amazing since. With every day that she is here I am able to see her growth and how she learns about her surroundings. I try not to miss a birthday/holiday at least speaking to her or her big sister on the phone. It was quite a wonderful feeling speaking to this little princess on the phone today wishing her a "Happy 5th Birthday!" I could only smile as we talked about her birthday and how I know everyone was excited to wish her a happy birthday. Surprisingly enough, she interrupted me to say, "Well, how does everyone know? Oh, you called them, but what if you called the wrong number?" I think in that instant I was like this is one of the things that I live my life for.
This is probably the first example that will easily allow me to expound on my thoughts about acknowledgment and value. This morning I also received a random message from a young lady who was complimenting me by telling me that I should be teaching a class to show young men how to treat ladies. I smiled, thought it was interesting and wondered where it was coming from. Seems like over a period of time she has been watching me in the day to day and has noticed a few things. She found some value in some things that she witnessed and didn't mind acknowledging me for being who I am.
I look at these two examples and begin to think about the things that I am willing to acknowledge in my life. I have to wonder why is it that I do acknowledge some things today? I believe that it does have something to do with what it is that I value. As I look at calling my niece to wish her a Happy 5th birthday being one of the most important things that I needed to do today, it very apparent of the value I place on my relationships with the people I love. I acknowledge how important it is for people to know how much they mean to right now.
So as I continue to think about acknowledgment and value, I have a few questions that I have posed to myself. Why do you acknowledge some things and not others? How is your value system related to acknowledgment? Based on where you are right now in life, have you acknowledged how you got here? Do you value the experiences that brought you to this moment? Is there acknowledgment without value? Is there value without acknowledgment?
You may be surprised at some of your answers to the questions if you are willing to think about the concepts for a second. I have learned that if we are willing to acknowledge the majority of things that happen in our lives, they all have value either in that moment or in the future. What I am thinking right now is bigger than just experiences, but mainly living in this moment making the most of right now. If we were to take our blinders off and acknowledge this moment and value every second that NOW has afforded us, what a different place the world could be.
Although very simple, I have a few ideas that can be very infectious on society if you believe. Take a moment out of your day on a regular basis and acknowledge the ones that you care about and love. Show someone the value in treating people as you would like to be treated. Apply #POSITIVEMOVEMENTSFORWARD to every aspect of your life and watch how everything around you begins to change. Live life and be amazing now as why would you even put off realizing the benefits of this type of living.
“Our greatest strength as a human race is our ability to acknowledge our differences, our greatest weakness is our failure to embrace them.”
-Judith Henderson
“The value of compassion cannot be over-emphasized. Anyone can criticize. It takes a true believer to be compassionate. No greater burden can be borne by an individual than to know no one cares or understands.”
Arthur Stainback
“No one is willing to acknowledge a fault in himself when a more agreeable motive can be found for the estrangement of his acquaintances”
-Mark Twain
“Only the man who crosses the river at night knows the value of the light of day”
-Chinese Proverb
“No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.”
-Alfred North Whitehead
“Authentic values are those by which a life can be lived, which can form a people that produces great deeds and thoughts.”
-Allan Bloom
“You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.”
-Jim Stovall
“The hero is the man dedicated to the creation and / or defense of reality-conforming, life-promoting values.”
-Andrew Bernstein
“The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life, acknowledge the great powers around us and in us. If you can do that, and live that way, you are really a wise man.”
-Euripides
“Your true value depends entirely on what you are compared with.”
-Bob Wells
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