Notes From the Net
Saturday
Taking care of what matters most
Your body is one of the most fragile things you need to care for. All too often we allow sickness, stress, and even other people run our lives. It's tough to consistently pursue your goals when you're laid up or constantly fighting illness. Take a preventive approach to your health. By eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and dealing with your emotions, you can build and maintain a healthy body that can help you improve other areas of your life!
¶ Saturday, September 30, 2006
Thursday
Are you making a difference?
Have you ever said "I want to help do this," or "I'd like to be involved in that"? Many people have grand intentions but forget about the importance of following through. It is far better to take the time to complete small deeds than to spend your time talking about what you want to do someday. Sometimes you may feel that a small deed will not make a difference. Just remember that every bit- even a small bit- helps. Every good deed makes a difference to someone.
¶ Thursday, September 28, 2006
Wednesday
Navigating your ship
Taking the easy way out is, well, easy. Human beings naturally stick with their normal routines because they offer feelings of security. But by staying in the same routine, you miss out on new opportunities. In 1975, a third-year student at Harvard University decided to drop out and pursue something else. The student's name was Bill Gates. He saw an opportunity and took the risk. While this doesn't mean that every dream will transform you into a billionaire, it shows that some of world's geniuses took chances to follow their dreams. If you are waiting around for your goals to just fall into your lap, it could take awhile. But your goals are achievable- if you're willing to break from the norm and cast your ship down uncharted waters.
¶ Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Tuesday
What do you stand for?
Have you ever thought about the power of having a purpose? Everyone needs something that gets them moving in the morning, keeps them going through the day, and makes them continue to work toward a goal. Take some time to think about the activities you are involved in and how they relate to your personal purpose. For the activities that don't serve your purpose, ask yourself why you continue with them. Perhaps you need to reevaluate your commitments and renew your conviction toward your purpose.
¶ Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Monday
Speaking up with the tough questions
Many people ask the wrong questions, which can hinder their work. That's why it is so important to ask the right questions- to get the right answers! Everyone fears looking stupid in front of other people. No one wants to ask a silly question and get laughed at. But not asking a question that needs an answer can have consequences that might be just as embarrassing or detrimental. If you're thinking about it, chances are that someone else is curious too. Your own fears can paralyze you, but deep down if the shoe were on the other foot, you probably wouldn't make fun of someone else for asking questions. Don't take the hard way and suffer through mistakes, speak up and clear up any confusion!
¶ Monday, September 25, 2006
Sunday
What we can learn from our path to the present
Often in moments of discouragement or depression, it's easy to feel that your life is going nowhere or that change is impossible. But it's simply not true! Take a minute to think back over your life. Chances are, you'll see a lot of growth in all of your formative areas. From childish playing, to youthful impulsiveness and adult reasoning, life sure has taken you on a rollercoaster hasn't it? When you were young, someone probably asked you what you wanted to be when you grew up. If someone posed that same question to you now, what would you say? Let this reflection be an indicator of your dreams.
¶ Sunday, September 24, 2006
Saturday
Do you seek revenge when someone has wronged you?
When someone wrongs you, it's easy to go to that place in your mind and conjure up ways to get back at them. Our lives are in a constant state of change, and yet our hearts hold on to hurtful memories with a tight grip. Remember the girl that was mean to you in high school? She could have evolved into a very pleasant, kind woman, but your mind is fixated on what she did. Truly, the idea of revenge is bittersweet and foolish. Don't waste your time and energy stewing. Inevitably you will come across someone who is flat out mean and inconsiderate, but the best approach it to simply let it go and move on. Focus on the positive things about yourself or rethink the person's motivations. Maybe he is the one who is hurt or insecure, trying to deflect his own bad experiences onto someone else. Try your best to forget about it.
¶ Saturday, September 23, 2006
Friday
Growing your inner garden
In order to grow anything in a garden, a lot of factors must come into play- properly planting the seeds or flowers into the soil, watering, weeding, fertilizing, and ensuring adequate sunlight. Are you tending to your own goals in the same fashion? Getting that new job takes determination and positive vision to make that dream a reality. Do you believe in your abilities? Believing is a wonderful, powerful tool but it takes more than that. You've got to fight the elements, take good care of yourself, and dig down deep for courage in order for your seeds to be cultivated into success.
¶ Friday, September 22, 2006
Taking the more difficult road to success
Cheating to get ahead might get you the grade or promotion, but in the long run it really sets you back. Intelligence, creativity, hard work, and solid character- the things that propel you forward- are not fostered by taking the easy way out. You don't earn anything by short-cutting your work. You're only cutting your potential short. Sure you might feel relieved that a stressful task has passed, but an undeserving sense of relief doesn't compare to the gratification of knowing that you completed your own work. If something in your life is difficult, meet it head on and earn the satisfaction of earning a job well done- with honesty and integrity.
¶ Friday, September 22, 2006
Tuesday
The sweetness of reflecting on a dream
Setting goals is easy. The tough part is putting time and hard work into realizing those dreams. The energy you are willing to put forth to reach your dreams is directly related to the probability of achieving them. Above all, be patient with the situation and with yourself. Don't lose your way by being blinded by disappointment, frustrations, and failures. Ponder the goals in your life and the obstacles you might face. Make appropriate plans to overcome those roadblocks even before they occur. Think of the reward of reflecting on a goal you have reached, rather than one you failed to see through. Most big dreams involve big effort!
¶ Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Monday
Transmitting light through our actions
Are you a candle or a mirror? Most people are somewhere in the middle. This quote reminds us of the importance of our actions. The example you set (as a mirror) is a way of sharing how you feel based on your behaviors. Gossiping, complaining, and being pessimistic show those in your life that you are unhappy and feeling low. The same is true for the opposite behaviors. Positive, affirming comments transmit to the world that you are happy, friendly, and optimistic. What is your mirror reflecting? Let your actions reflect your true beliefs and values.
¶ Monday, September 18, 2006
All things pass eventually
Have you ever heard the concept of "seasons" in life? It refers to an idea that nothing in life lasts forever, and with time, all things change. Do you feel like your life is in an unhappy state? Are you stuck in a rut? It will pass! Sadly, this also applies to the good times as well. The elation of a promotion, the excitement of a new relationship- all will fade with time. Think creatively about how to maximize the sweet times and minimize the sour ones.
¶ Monday, September 18, 2006
Saturday
Are you a team player?
Teamwork is the absolute foundation for many successes in business. Rarely is a goal met with just one person pressing towards it on their own. Having a partner means you have a sounding board for ideas, a support network for failures, and a cheerleader when you are discouraged. Working together with a common vision and maintaining a successful relationship holds a greater probability for achieving your dreams! Compiling your efforts gets the job done.
¶ Saturday, September 16, 2006
Friday
Do you have a design for change?
Do you have a desire to lose weight, have more children, or try a new career? If so, are you taking appropriate steps towards these desires? Often your wants turn into lip service, and because of that wishy-washy determination, you may never reach your goal. The reality of life is that we need to change something in order to get something. For example, you cannot lose weight and build a healthier body by eating what you are now and remaining at the same exercise level. Formulate a plan for success by breaking down your goal into several smaller steps to promote a more optimistic and realistic strategy! ¶ Friday, September 15, 2006
Do you have a desire to lose weight, have more children, or try a new career? If so, are you taking appropriate steps towards these desires? Often your wants turn into lip service, and because of that wishy-washy determination, you may never reach your goal. The reality of life is that we need to change something in order to get something. For example, you cannot lose weight and build a healthier body by eating what you are now and remaining at the same exercise level. Formulate a plan for success by breaking down your goal into several smaller steps to promote a more optimistic and realistic strategy! ¶ Friday, September 15, 2006
Thursday
Letting your optimism out
We all have natural talents and abilities that we bring to any given situation. Likewise our motivations are usually different as well. Some are motivated by money and success, others by a need for recognition, and still others by the simple satisfaction of doing a good job. But what determines HOW you behave is your attitude. Positive people are often respected, and others naturally gravitate towards them. Conversely, no one likes being around a chronic downer or someone who complains all the time. Next time someone says "Good morning," really embrace the idea! No one can take away the good feelings you have inside, so let them shine!
¶ Thursday, September 14, 2006
Wednesday
Setting a plan in motion
Short of winning the lottery, the idea of coming into wealth or power overnight is nearly impossible. Note that it IS possible to be successful, but it involves a lot of hard work, time, overcoming of obstacles, and dedication to achieve. You can't expect success to just fall into your lap. Often, you have to pour time and tears into reaching it. Set your goals, formulate a plan for getting from point A to point B (and C, D, E and F), and go for it! Let your perseverance and drive be the foundation for achievement.
¶ Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Setting a plan in motion
Short of winning the lottery, the idea of coming into wealth or power overnight is nearly impossible. Note that it IS possible to be successful, but it involves a lot of hard work, time, overcoming of obstacles, and dedication to achieve. You can't expect success to just fall into your lap. Often, you have to pour time and tears into reaching it. Set your goals, formulate a plan for getting from point A to point B (and C, D, E and F), and go for it! Let your perseverance and drive be the foundation for achievement.
¶ Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Tuesday
Are you a good friend?
Even if you aren't an antique lover, you can probably appreciate old things. The most worthwhile, long-term investment you can make is investing in relationships. A healthy, edifying friendship can have a huge impact on your well-being, character, and even your success. Old friends have seen us through celebrations, grief, births, graduations, marriages, and so much more. They love us for who we are- warts and all! Think about the most formative friendships in your life and consider writing a note of appreciation to each of your friends. Maybe there are some buddies that you need to reach out to because they have a need, or others you just need to reconnect with. Your gratitude shows them that they are cared for, which everyone needs to know.
¶ Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Monday
Flexible goal planning
Does change stress you out? Do you feel anxious not knowing what is around the corner in life? It is unreasonable to expect the world to adapt for you; rather you must change to fit the world. Life is without a doubt, unpredictable. While it is natural to desire stability and consistency, life simply doesn't work that way all of the time. People pass away, financial situations change, relationships end- all without our consultation! The best solution is to develop a sense of humor and flexibility. Continue to set long-term goals, but keep your options and means for achieving those goals adaptable, just in case life decides to throw a wrench in your plans. ¶ Monday, September 11, 2006
Does change stress you out? Do you feel anxious not knowing what is around the corner in life? It is unreasonable to expect the world to adapt for you; rather you must change to fit the world. Life is without a doubt, unpredictable. While it is natural to desire stability and consistency, life simply doesn't work that way all of the time. People pass away, financial situations change, relationships end- all without our consultation! The best solution is to develop a sense of humor and flexibility. Continue to set long-term goals, but keep your options and means for achieving those goals adaptable, just in case life decides to throw a wrench in your plans. ¶ Monday, September 11, 2006
Sunday
The joy of cooking
Cooking for someone is a great expression of love, comfort, and gratitude. A hearty meal prepared with fresh, healthy ingredients can warm anyone's heart. This is why many cultures send meals to those who have recently lost a loved one; our motivation behind traditional holiday meals; and why affectionate memories of family often center around the table. Sharing food with people is an intimate occasion. Try out a healthy, new recipe this week. Experiment and see what magic you can cook up in the kitchen!
¶ Sunday, September 10, 2006
Saturday
Finding victory in the small stuff
Do your dreams seem far away? Does the distance between you and the finish line deflate your motivation? Often we forget that goals and dreams are not achieved overnight, but rather in a series of small steps. Progress towards your goals should also be counted as victorious! Stop looking at the end result to bring you the greatest joy. Instead, celebrate the ways in which your life is gravitating towards that desired result. Nothing is guaranteed in life, so make the most of each day and persevere. Remember that the small things in life build up to the bigger ones.
¶ Saturday, September 09, 2006
What kind of emotional atmosphere are you creating?
Positive people are almost always natural leaders and motivators. People gravitate towards them, just as they avoid individuals who continually mope or complain. Take a look at your own attitude. Is it one that others would want to emulate in their own lives? Instead of jumping to throw in a negative comment, try to think of something good to say instead. By no means hold in your feelings, but remember that no one likes to be surrounded by constant pessimism. Attitudes are contagious so fill your environment with happiness, enthusiasm, and optimism!
¶ Saturday, September 09, 2006
