tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21621047285293008732024-02-20T09:41:02.585-05:00Guidance for the Field of LifeYouTime Coaching's blog full of techniques for success in the every day world involving relationships, happiness, motivation, personal and professional change, physical and emotional health, job happiness, and positivity.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-34548409212527509492015-05-27T08:52:00.000-04:002015-05-27T09:10:04.317-04:004 Signs You May Need a Tutor <div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;">Even though the school year for many people is coming to a close, summer school is right around the corner! Yea, sorry for having to go mentioning that.</span></b></span><br />
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</span></b></span> <span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;">The motivation to do well in class while your mind is at the beach can put you in a position where a tutor could help for many reasons and hopefully <i>prevent </i>that, oh so familiar, struggle and stress.</span></b></span><br />
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</i></span></b></span> <b><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">In this blog I introduce you to Jay.</span></b></div>
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</span></span></b> <b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">Jay<span style="background-color: white;"> is the CEO of </span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://signeteducation.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: maroon;">Signet Education</span></a></span><span style="background-color: white;">, a company of world class tutors, coaches, and consultants fou</span><span style="background-color: white;">nd in Cambridge, Massachusetts and New York City. He graduated from Harvard in 2005, and has taken a broad academic path that spans the sciences and humanities. Jay was also a semi-professional jazz musician (trumpet) before starting Signet Education. </span></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394;"><b>Follow Jay as he </b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394;"><b>illustrates 4 signs </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394;"><b>that mean </b></span><b style="color: #0b5394;">you may need a tutor.</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><b>“I have an exam in two days, and I am completely lost.</b></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><b>I need to find somebody to help me learn the material quick!”</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To help avoid this situation, here are four warning signs that might help you recognize that it’s time to find a tutor:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">1.</span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"> </span></b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">“I’ve done everything I can, but nothing is working.”</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2013/5/21/1369139515369/stressed-student-004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2013/5/21/1369139515369/stressed-student-004.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sometimes you put all of your time and energy into a subject, but your efforts just don’t seem to pay off. Maybe you don’t understand a fundamental concept, or maybe you need to rethink your study approach. A tutor can help you understand difficult concepts so you don’t fall behind before exam time. They can also help you refine your study technique so you’re better prepared for next time. Consider contacting a tutor several weeks before an exam so you can nail down key concepts before it’s too late. The expert perspective of your tutor can help you see your way forward quickly and effectively.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2. </span></b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;"><b>"Things were going so well, but now I’m struggling.”</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you were previously succeeding, but have recently seen a decline in grades or understanding, an expert tutor can help you figure out where you fell off track. Whether the drop off occurred within a single semester, or in transition to middle school, high school, college, or graduate school, a tutor can quickly assess your needs and help you move forward with confidence.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">3.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;">“I couldn’t care less about this subject.”</span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://musicalbecki.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/procrastination.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://musicalbecki.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/procrastination.png" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If this sounds like you, watch out! A dislike for the subject coupled with a challenging course load can lead to procrastination and poor performance. If you have a test or class you just can’t seem to get excited about, a dynamic tutor can help make it more exciting, or at least help you stay on track and get through the material more quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">4.</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: large;"> </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;">“I’m bad at __________.”</span></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02514/is0313-p12-HOLLAND_2514824b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02514/is0313-p12-HOLLAND_2514824b.jpg" height="199" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With some patient, focused tutoring, you can remedy this all-too-common scenario. It is not unusual for to a student to go from being “bad at chemistry” to wanting to major in chemistry, all because of an inspiring and effective tutor. A tutor can quickly diagnose where you need help and give you clear strategies for overcoming your obstacles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are encountering any of these issues, </span><a href="https://signeteducation.com/connect" style="color: #1155cc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">consider getting a tutor before it’s too late</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. In many cases, catching the issue early means just a few tutoring sessions will get you back on track. If you find yourself struggling, it’s never too early to contact a tutor! Some focused tutoring might save you days of frustration and anxiety in the long run.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #222222;">Contact </span><span style="color: #990000;">Signet Education</span><span style="color: #222222;"> for help </span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 22.0799999237061px;"><u><a href="https://signeteducation.com/connect" target="_blank">HERE</a></u>.</span></b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-66531574054343951062015-04-15T13:24:00.000-04:002015-04-15T13:24:16.562-04:00Help with "Getting In the Zone".<div class="p1">
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">Regardless of what the circumstances may have been, we have all heard the saying, "get in the zone". I am going to share with you not only what this saying actually means, but help you find easier ways in your day to day life to achieve this amazing feeling and state of being.</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>A concept that can be applied to many areas of a person's life, such as work and hobbies, is flow. Flow refers to a psychological state in which the individual is fully engaged with the task they are doing at the moment. It is a very satisfying experience that offers many positive emotions and fulfillment. </b></span><br />
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>When a person is in flow, they are not aware of the time and they are completely immersed in whatever they are doing. A state of flow feels like a full focus on the task that is not forced, that is satisfying, productive and creative. Flow is rewarding in itself, meaning that simply experiencing the process is rewarding, regardless of results. The focus is in the moment, and it feels like performing the task is fused with awareness, as all the attention is naturally diverted to it. The person also doesn't experience self-consciousness. A clear example of flow can be seen with the artist who is lost in doing their work and forgets about the time. It's important to note that any person can achieve a state of flow.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #351c75; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>What conditions are necessary for "Flow"?</u></b></span><br />
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<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first one is that the task needs to have a clear goal and progress. For example, you want to finish the painting, solve a series of puzzles or plant flowers. </span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The second condition is that the task needs to have feedback that helps you adjust your progress. For example, you will see how the paint you apply looks. </span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The task also needs to have a perceived balance between being challenging enough to be interesting and to be accessible to your skills enough that you can do it without feeling too frustrated. If these conditions are met, the person can achieve flow. </span></b></li>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> <br /><u><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;">What Are the Benefits of "Flow"</span></u></b></span><br />
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<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It enhances the satisfaction a person feels with their life. </span></b></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is a rewarding experience that provides a lot of positive emotions. </span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It helps the person become more creative and find tasks that are rewarding. </span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the workplace or other activities, it can increase productivity and make the person strive for more, grow and develop. </span></b></li>
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<u><span style="color: #38761d;"><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">To Achieve "Flow" You Must:</span></b></span></u><br />
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<li><b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have confidence in your abilities, avoid interruptions (turn off your phone, for instance)</span></b></li>
<li><b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Choose a task that provides a bit of a challenge and avoid focusing on the end goal.</span></b></li>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-75939865305207258782015-03-25T13:37:00.002-04:002015-03-25T13:37:38.230-04:00Parenting a Teenager Made Easier in 5 Steps<div class="p1">
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<span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;"><b>Parenting a teenager can be a challenge and require a lot of skill and energy. However, there are a few tips that can help make it a lot easier. </b></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 1: Be positive about your expectations.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">Studies show that people often perform and act according to what is expected of them. If little is expected, little will be achieved. This is known as the Pygmalion effect, and it has been seen with the expectations a parent has of a child. </span></div>
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<a href="http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/130722193728-parenting-empty-threats-story-top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/130722193728-parenting-empty-threats-story-top.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #444444; font-size: large;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">If you expect that your teenager is going to fail in school, for example, this increases the likelihood that they will fail. However, thinking the opposite can have a positive effect. It's important not to have expectations that are too overwhelming (become the President) or too specific (my son is going to be a quarterback), because expectations become limiting, but rather to have positive expectations based on the teen's interests, skills and personality. </span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 2: Use rewards, not punishments.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">It has been shown that punishments have a varying effect on discouraging a negative behavior, but rewards are guaranteed to work to encourage positive behavior. Rewards don't have to be material, as many times sincere praise will work very well to encourage the teen. </span></div>
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<a href="http://blog.motorists.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/teen-driver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.motorists.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/teen-driver.jpg" height="121" width="320" /></a><br /><span style="color: #444444; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">Usually, with teenagers, parents tend to focus on the negative behaviors, sometimes taking the good things for granted. This actually serves to perpetuate the negative behaviors more. However, shifting the focus and being generous with praise can help you achieve better results.</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 3: Adjust limits</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/45635/file-19066912-jpg/images/speed_sign-resized-600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/45635/file-19066912-jpg/images/speed_sign-resized-600.jpg" height="200" width="154" /></a><span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">Teenagers need different limits than children, and what is more, they need limits that are adjusted as they grow up. However, it often happens that parents don't revise the limits until a serious fight happens or something else equally out of the ordinary occurs. To prevent this, it's a good idea to revise limits consistently to maintain a balance between the teen's freedom and responsibility. </span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 4: Remain calm</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-and-parent-on-4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-and-parent-on-4.png" height="200" width="171" /></a><span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">Teens are dramatic, as their emotional experiences are often extreme. They say they “hate” their parents, which is something no parent wants to hear. However, in the face of these emotions that the teen yet can't control, it's very important to remain calm and be there for them, as these outbursts usually don't reflect actual hatred, but pain and anger that the teen doesn't know how to handle yet. </span></div>
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<b style="color: #b45f06; font-size: xx-large;">Step 5: Keep communications channels open</b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/healthylifemagazine/files/2011/12/HL_TeensCommun_DT15497479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.timesunion.com/healthylifemagazine/files/2011/12/HL_TeensCommun_DT15497479.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a><span class="s1" style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">While the teen needs more freedom, they still need guidance and help. It's very important that they can feel as if they can receive it in their own home with their family. Teenagers need to be able to come to their parents with different problems and situations, so they shouldn't feel like they would receive only blame or anger. Rather, they need to feel that they will be supported. For this, it's important to reinforce these ideas through words and actions.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Need help parenting your teenager?</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Learn more about Parent Coaching through YouTime Coaching by clicking <a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">HERE.</span></a></span></b><br />
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<span class="s1">Sources: </span></div>
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<span class="s2"><a href="https://cdn.americanprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/teacherexpectations-brief10.8.pdf" target="_blank">Teacher Expectations Resource</a></span></div>
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<span class="s2"><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/family-affair/200809/rewards-are-better-punishment-here-s-why" target="_blank">Rewards and Punishment - Psychology Today</a></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><a href="http://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/teenagers/communicating-with-teenagers/the-importance-of-communicating-with-teenagers/" target="_blank">Communicating with Teenagers</a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-13718622701532874522015-03-13T13:37:00.002-04:002015-03-13T13:37:50.681-04:00You Must Be Patient With Yourself<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>I was recently told that I need to be </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>more patient with myself. </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdvFLReN-dYhRb_nP07vKzaoNwljWwzacsOl51b6NX5jAgrHYWRNKIQiqh6HxryBCz2NCYJJ_W4QAe4Ft_rjUnFGi1219S6DNEgv9VzZx7rWiHs9Mji_Izgjzp3b-L4FhzaZ0ABLGMIA4z/s1600/Patience.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="growth, meaning, meditation" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdvFLReN-dYhRb_nP07vKzaoNwljWwzacsOl51b6NX5jAgrHYWRNKIQiqh6HxryBCz2NCYJJ_W4QAe4Ft_rjUnFGi1219S6DNEgv9VzZx7rWiHs9Mji_Izgjzp3b-L4FhzaZ0ABLGMIA4z/s1600/Patience.png" height="106" title="patience" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The idea of "having patience" is something that most people desire to have in their lives. Simply put, it just makes things easier. We believe that there are ways to be "taught" how to be patient and that you can be good or bad at it as well. One thing that most people must know about patience is that it needs to begin by focusing on having patience with yourself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently, I have been getting more involved with meditation. Between the science behind it and the personal benefits, it really is a valuable tool to have in your life, but with all great things comes a price tag and in this case, it is patience. The patience is not only found within the amount of time you meditate for but also with the thoughts that flow through your mind during that time.</span> </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9Syb1c5WYve4q0ooazMz4JcPiFpMw-_XfdjA1DRajP6G37n7ZeKd5hjOfuiqOBcmYuQJokjT88cPnCOXdqryPw3_Tpg5jli-S_8EEE3M6Snfgru9AMo0XbpmbdqGppp1vr1h28dgRZ29/s1600/Hour+glass.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9Syb1c5WYve4q0ooazMz4JcPiFpMw-_XfdjA1DRajP6G37n7ZeKd5hjOfuiqOBcmYuQJokjT88cPnCOXdqryPw3_Tpg5jli-S_8EEE3M6Snfgru9AMo0XbpmbdqGppp1vr1h28dgRZ29/s1600/Hour+glass.png" height="320" width="234" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Our minds are very active. Inner dialogue is constantly up and running, seemingly impossible to turn off. Not only is this normal, but it is actually okay. Patience includes acceptance. An acceptance that we are imperfect and our minds are active creatures. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Seek first to understand, then to be understood" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">~ Stephen Covey, Author of <i>7 Habits of Highly Effective People</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This quote could having multiple meanings, depending on the individual reading it. For me, it highlights the importance in the order of operation while trying to experience personal growth. First, seek to understand yourself. Second, let others into your wonderful world. Having patience with yourself will change the way you communicate with other people, create less stress in your life, change your perspective on some of life's most important pieces, and ultimately make you feel happier with who you are. That is life's real adventure. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Patience is not just a concept </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">that can be "taught". </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">It must be lived.</span></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-49237509944170794192015-03-03T12:54:00.001-05:002015-03-03T12:54:02.994-05:00Don't Risk Burning Out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-IbyQMBOZ4_h1GOxRK5BXTq6at8Fm4f1rlUH9yz7jMtmXjna4VHLVXS-xoCV-bp2rDYNoPt6SL4gXpKKwDIFmpavWgZrY9xLP5Qf0eLX3NcDnBC30BkIUX-F7sa3-B6BmOOCmpK2OfjH/s1600/Out+of+Order+Head.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-IbyQMBOZ4_h1GOxRK5BXTq6at8Fm4f1rlUH9yz7jMtmXjna4VHLVXS-xoCV-bp2rDYNoPt6SL4gXpKKwDIFmpavWgZrY9xLP5Qf0eLX3NcDnBC30BkIUX-F7sa3-B6BmOOCmpK2OfjH/s1600/Out+of+Order+Head.jpeg" height="148" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When most people think about being productive, they think of the number of hours worked. Flipping that mindset may actually have a bigger impact on you and your productivity levels.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What does this mean? </span></b><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Focus on your breaks, mental replenishing, and refueling.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here are 10 ways, featured in <i>Entrepreneur Magazine</i> to improve you mental refueling during the work day:</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskB4WOFreEDMFcs3LhilvJ5WL_puEhieCjIIZWAza9l2MTixxFZ8FTfQgP3TUxGqIYYBlpvDQiPvW7p7hBDbzT_NBLBk7yHCXJu53k3rk8s0Ri9UytAy30WBuIn8cBPloCDgnB57k65qw/s1600/Pause+at+work.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskB4WOFreEDMFcs3LhilvJ5WL_puEhieCjIIZWAza9l2MTixxFZ8FTfQgP3TUxGqIYYBlpvDQiPvW7p7hBDbzT_NBLBk7yHCXJu53k3rk8s0Ri9UytAy30WBuIn8cBPloCDgnB57k65qw/s1600/Pause+at+work.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span family="gills sans">1. <u>Take Multiple Small Breaks:</u></span></b><span style="font-size: large;"> Schedule two 10-15 minute breaks in the morning and </span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;">two 10-15 breaks in the afternoon. Use this to break up a sometimes monotonous day. Research shows that more focused smaller chunks of work with multiple breaks yields more productive time.</span><div>
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<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">2. </span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Actually Enjoy Your Lunch:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> Don't settle of a "working lunch". Go outside or just change the scenery while you enjoy your food. The change in scenery </span><span style="font-size: large;">redirects your thoughts to less work-related topics.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hj88OMweCCCjAcK49I07qYWHpG0HCbg3yCqVeoW4lC8RQOfjQ7E4M4V93JaeymiQ0KmElfTNEI-vKHAw9oDTqJaWl5S-DlUsqFZMHpLG4_0afCFG1MFSWq_8lP3tU4pqdlesrjxpohGk/s1600/Thinking+baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hj88OMweCCCjAcK49I07qYWHpG0HCbg3yCqVeoW4lC8RQOfjQ7E4M4V93JaeymiQ0KmElfTNEI-vKHAw9oDTqJaWl5S-DlUsqFZMHpLG4_0afCFG1MFSWq_8lP3tU4pqdlesrjxpohGk/s1600/Thinking+baby.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. </b></span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">JUST THINK:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> Use 10-15 out of your day (mornings are nice) to just reflect on your life. How are you feeling? What makes you happy? What are you grateful for? </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWX_2JIVIlFBcNOQUFHDlkgFUCWoFxZ84hhb-PyR5Vzkj1FK8aVYdrFDC87Lj-zTWd7zE1r4LbT3lfFkGAzBtYnfFJA7h6MykoObWAETzasKbmY0_p9MQIRuKCnaX2j-G-4zUbk2eWJTN/s1600/Beach+with+friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWX_2JIVIlFBcNOQUFHDlkgFUCWoFxZ84hhb-PyR5Vzkj1FK8aVYdrFDC87Lj-zTWd7zE1r4LbT3lfFkGAzBtYnfFJA7h6MykoObWAETzasKbmY0_p9MQIRuKCnaX2j-G-4zUbk2eWJTN/s1600/Beach+with+friends.jpg" height="199" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.</b> </span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Get a life!:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> You schedule your appointments with other people, why not schedule them with yourself? Make sure you have a calendar designated for your social life and doing things you enjoy.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVf36NR5KJpGScJD6sTIHVPAHr79Fj6_9Hl7knM-HQOZhHruK8Ku3PheJg0n-fTtgJJE1RE72QyCi8me5AB9thEHicEdO1MiDrUSyoIP6RvhlL8OfQCLXs7UEtzs62mKQLrj3IrWNVn7fv/s1600/Photo+Hobby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVf36NR5KJpGScJD6sTIHVPAHr79Fj6_9Hl7knM-HQOZhHruK8Ku3PheJg0n-fTtgJJE1RE72QyCi8me5AB9thEHicEdO1MiDrUSyoIP6RvhlL8OfQCLXs7UEtzs62mKQLrj3IrWNVn7fv/s1600/Photo+Hobby.jpg" height="154" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. </b></span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Take up a new hobby:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> New hobbies can create new brain patterns, including getting you out of auto-pilot at work. Take up something you find fulfillment in and stick with it. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkBPF_dtaDkGxyNa1RH3eXJkRYS0loEizk8eCKFLE4IMH1kwZEjeLtDk9PIcyPcxDLCW3RYTclL0BWfdxaJw5lsTHF_KoF5D1vl5gsqEwJy02O5Bpsw71sMuc92pKG9VYCSMnkwuAPSty4/s1600/Running+sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkBPF_dtaDkGxyNa1RH3eXJkRYS0loEizk8eCKFLE4IMH1kwZEjeLtDk9PIcyPcxDLCW3RYTclL0BWfdxaJw5lsTHF_KoF5D1vl5gsqEwJy02O5Bpsw71sMuc92pKG9VYCSMnkwuAPSty4/s1600/Running+sunset.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><div>
<b style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">6. </b><u><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Get your booty moving:</span></b></u><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-size: large;">More blood flow to the brain equals better brain power! Get your booty moving at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity to experience all of the benefits.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTwsTfysncNEi9-YustuNMDyhoyJrwbWsl3PZcCp_xxCSzb3djipBYcnPHCPb6TpAURpx2DjO_mxBPAFqHk-ndwfVlQDynCXaKFpuuKlkjv7uOuvDaZTbPy73jQ_pHbhocTe04RaBcUPm/s1600/weekend+getaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTwsTfysncNEi9-YustuNMDyhoyJrwbWsl3PZcCp_xxCSzb3djipBYcnPHCPb6TpAURpx2DjO_mxBPAFqHk-ndwfVlQDynCXaKFpuuKlkjv7uOuvDaZTbPy73jQ_pHbhocTe04RaBcUPm/s1600/weekend+getaway.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">7. </span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Get away:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> A vacation can be tough for a lot of people to swing but time wise and financially speaking. When possible take mini-vacations of the weekends. Rent a cabin and just relax, or go somewhere more active, your choice. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMr3-hivOAmd1m0ZkMz7mYRmIRdgLAevW6cDtiSKk9E7W7g-EoyjzGTIWt5yo_vTv6sdW6VvzBzmEfZXaJGNQqTjlaQ9bWgZRJy2I9IQmeLLrjuEKNqeE3EgURt9HHcxCKEgiiidZ-q8F/s1600/man+sleep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMr3-hivOAmd1m0ZkMz7mYRmIRdgLAevW6cDtiSKk9E7W7g-EoyjzGTIWt5yo_vTv6sdW6VvzBzmEfZXaJGNQqTjlaQ9bWgZRJy2I9IQmeLLrjuEKNqeE3EgURt9HHcxCKEgiiidZ-q8F/s1600/man+sleep.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><b><div style="font-size: x-large;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">8. <u>ZZZ:</u></span></b><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-size: large;">We all know how important sleeping is and it may be even more important than you think. Catch 7-9 hours of sleep to wake up fully energized. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg546hOHDHTrWgGPNGWloY7-MuG1zrPE9NtcLLCoiEkiwlRdilxnx8roEboXCDAFCGs0Wxo1Nc0bpmsGDhzWr6nEo03SwXTxcDQqF0XM-TUM0RgO-wx-Rp1gPOLChFLsmpRZk7y-7VsK2j-/s1600/help.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg546hOHDHTrWgGPNGWloY7-MuG1zrPE9NtcLLCoiEkiwlRdilxnx8roEboXCDAFCGs0Wxo1Nc0bpmsGDhzWr6nEo03SwXTxcDQqF0XM-TUM0RgO-wx-Rp1gPOLChFLsmpRZk7y-7VsK2j-/s1600/help.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">9. </span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Take some of the load off:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> Learn to accept help from others! Trust in yourself and the other person can help facilitate this, but delegating work related tasks to take the load off is important to your mental state and how effective you are as a leader in the work place. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ezfvIPW7aNLO8Q3LH5_pPnIM8e9X-yZ7DDv2DPXCWEG5DBga85R7mt7I9OKz0VkfESAFEO05II_kJX7DwPpeoMhyphenhyphenfKkPJFTvh5nBPA4We1rwgoRaPu7GeCa2ZXpAdEtVyx4ULQM4T_CO/s1600/Walk+in+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ezfvIPW7aNLO8Q3LH5_pPnIM8e9X-yZ7DDv2DPXCWEG5DBga85R7mt7I9OKz0VkfESAFEO05II_kJX7DwPpeoMhyphenhyphenfKkPJFTvh5nBPA4We1rwgoRaPu7GeCa2ZXpAdEtVyx4ULQM4T_CO/s1600/Walk+in+garden.jpg" height="124" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">10. </span><u style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Smell the roses:</u><span style="font-size: large;"> Get outside! Studies show that being outside has a positive impact on your mental state and results in higher engagement with your work following your short walk in the park.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Try all 10 or just one at a time, it is all up to you. One thing is for sure, we could all benefit from these pieces of advice. </b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-91852031103842392632015-01-05T08:44:00.000-05:002015-01-05T08:44:07.541-05:00Screw the New Year: 3 Ways to Undermine Your ResolutionsHey ladies and gentlemen, Captain Positive is here is help you realize how the New Year may not be all that you were hoping for. Not only do I bring you this wonderful news but I will also share with you, because it is quite important, the 3 things you can do in order to efficiently undermine your New Year's resolutions.<br />
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After reading this blog you will know all the ways to properly screw up your plans for the New Year! Exciting, I know. With this knowledge comes great power, because in order to be successful with your resolution(s) you must know what works in addition to whats makes you fall miserably on your face. So the power is yours once you are done reading this. Choose how to use this information wisely.<br />
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Maybe your resolution should just be to not undermine your resolution with what you are about to hear... #JustSaying<br />
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I present to you the "Reverse RPM" theory of failing to reach your resolution. As most of you know "RPM" stands for "revolutions per minute" and is a relative calculation of speed, so for this presentation the "Reverse RPM" theory will show you how to completely halt any forward progress and speed you are looking to create for attaining your goals.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <b><span style="color: blue; font-family: futura; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: futura;">Reverse RPM Theory</span></span></b><br />
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</b> <b><span style="font-family: amatic; font-size: 30;"><font size="30">(R) Results</font></span></b><br />
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</b> <b>Problem:</b><br />
Many of us have developed a wonderful tendency to be predominantly results driven. We start a diet and we only look to lose weight (and we better see results fast or on to the next diet found in Self Magazine). The overnight success story of your New Year's resolution is your first screw up for the new year, strike one.<br />
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Of the top ten most popular resolutions (<a href="http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New-Years-Resolutions.shtml">Check them out here!</a>) all of them take preparation, planning, and time. We typically undermine our resolutions by looking at them as short-term, outcome-oriented endeavors.<br />
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<b>Solution:</b><br />
A "New Year's Resolution" is exactly that, a year-long resolution and goal. Do you stop going to the gym or eating healthy once you lose those 30 lbs. on June 21st of the new year? Well, you shouldn't but lots of people do. Your resolution is a long-term goal that should be process-oriented, not simply outcome.<br />
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Sure you have an outcome in mind, but your journey to get there needs to be clearly planned out, broken down, and assigned start/completion dates. (<a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/#!resources/c1tjx">download "My Mini Goals Worksheet" here</a>)<br />
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</b> <b><span style="font-family: amatic;"><font size="30">(P) Preparation</span></b></font><br />
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</b> <b>Problem:</b><br />
How many of you bozos knew that the new year started right as the lovely weekend was getting ready to kick off? Who wants to get healthy and make changes over the weekend when you can start on Monday?! Not many people, including me, so I have some personal stake in this.<br />
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Assuming you already created a resolution, we can safely say that you have at least identified that you have problem behaviors that need changing. Don't we all! The first step after realizing this is preparation to make the change. Unfortunately, our hedonistic "pleasure seeking" culture can sometimes force us into the "action stage" before proper planning. The result, 2 weeks of hard work towards your goal and reverting back to old ways (looks like your cigarettes will have their old best friend back).<br />
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<b>Solution:</b><br />
First, do a little detective work to figure out what your actual behaviors are, when they happen, and what triggers them (<a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/#!resources/c1tjx">download "Track My Triggers and Patterns Worksheet" here</a>). Second, really find out why you are looking to make these changes. First write down what positive benefits the change will bring to you (and others), followed by writing down how maintaining the problem behaviors have hurt you (and others).<br />
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Next, you must commit. Scream your goal from the biggest damn mountain top you can find (please don't do this). Seriously though, tell friends and family what your intentions are with this resolution. People are more likely to feel accountable if others know what they are trying to do.<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: amatic;"><font size="30">(M) Momentum</font></span></b><br />
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</b> <b>Problem:</b><br />
Wait, so since I am going to be "all healthy and stuff" starting in January, that means I can shove my face with booze and food throughout the holidays and think of exercise as the walk to the bathroom.<br />
Maybe I can smoke my face off and start fresh on January 1st. Or, since I will be saving so much money in the new year with my positive changes, I will definitely balance that out by spending tons of money over the holidays.<br />
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People start to have trouble hearing you as you get deeper down into that hole of yours. Sounding too familiar, huh? Don't use December as a scape goat for your troublesome behaviors. This only will make things harder with a higher likelihood of failing to progress with your resolution.<br />
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<b>Solution:</b><br />
Start planning after the first week in December. Already into January? No problem! Part of successful goal setting is being flexible and adapting to what's realistically going on around you. Spend 2 weeks planning out your path of success and seek out those that will support you in this (<a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/#!resources/c1tjx">download the "My Support Team Worksheet" here</a>). Most people try to begin their resolution after one of their most problematic months and that is a recipe for disaster! Set a realistic start date that allows you spend a couple week planning out your moves.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: futura; font-size: large;">Remember: Knowledge is not power, it is only potential power. You have to make the choice in using it. So go on and use that huge brain of yours to properly plan or even screw up the new year.</span></div><span style="font-family: futura; font-size: large;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: amatic;"><font size="30">Have a wonderful journey!</font></span></span></div><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-37665478750817504892014-12-27T12:27:00.001-05:002014-12-27T12:27:13.840-05:00Our First Married Christmas!The holidays, regardless of which ones you celebrate are about family, traditions, and appreciation. On August 9th of this year, I was married to Kate and welcomed with open arms to their family. One of the best days of my life, and the beginning of a brand new journey.<br />
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</div><div>Very frequently in the following months to your wedding you are asked, "how is married life?". My response is always, "it is not much different than engaged life. If anything, Kate feels quite different because she has to change her name in 90 different places..." </div><div><br />
</div><div>I may have oversimplified a little. A whole lot has changed. My life has gotten better in many ways.</div><div><br />
</div><div>This past week I participated in my first holiday season being married. It was full of new experiences mixed with the old traditions and turned out to be quite a time. So, did it all go well or was it a scene out of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation?</div><div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: amatic; font-size: 34;"><font size="34"><span>Here are just a few things that were different this holiday:</font></span></span></span></u></b></u></b></div></div></div><b><u> </u></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><ol><li style="text-align: left;">I had the opportunity to be in a new "family photo".</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Traveled more then ever (13 hours; Boston>South Jersey>Catskill, NY>Central MA>Boston)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Spent actual Christmas with Kate's family (the infamous "taking turns" with the holiday)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Experienced new "Wilson traditions"</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Brought "Wolf traditions" to the Wilson's. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Was able to open present with our wonderful dog Bipsy!</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Was able to see and spend time with more family then ever before.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Received a ton of gift cards</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Woke up the latest I have ever woken up to unwrap presents (9am opposed to 6am)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Gave out more "holiday thank you hugs" than ever before.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Was warmly welcomed to spend part of the holidays in 5 different homes.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Increased my New England sports gear by 300% on Christmas day (thanks Ellen!)</li>
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCZ0Ne0XfnxVVQOCHWnvERNitmVXNo262SORDGa0bvdak4NasKrHN_kHtlamWJZOnsHxSBeIjyGxvSJIv4CCWf9MkTOha7T79GPgW1es9nJ_FAhEdkExQx66Ap0F4bWzcmyLb6StG0iarS/s1600/IMG_2321_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCZ0Ne0XfnxVVQOCHWnvERNitmVXNo262SORDGa0bvdak4NasKrHN_kHtlamWJZOnsHxSBeIjyGxvSJIv4CCWf9MkTOha7T79GPgW1es9nJ_FAhEdkExQx66Ap0F4bWzcmyLb6StG0iarS/s1600/IMG_2321_2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Based on these 12 things, I think it went pretty amazing. It really drove home the value of family, relationships, and our need for connection. Still, no matter how great this all feels the reality is also in the challenge of adapting to your new normal and change. The change in how you used to celebrate holidays and the people you spent it with.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9Z3s-qxBDj7lN9hiYT34yxLrp2SvaduRAisujEHxWPN5x2MB6MEXLh2wDNQbuMyahAgRlkAyOiYBEB6PV-XOuDIDs7_UNlAxzsW7dkiUDEwvTUnm4YPMLYByEYqK91UBqYuQfQ3dYXUD/s1600/IMG_2291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9Z3s-qxBDj7lN9hiYT34yxLrp2SvaduRAisujEHxWPN5x2MB6MEXLh2wDNQbuMyahAgRlkAyOiYBEB6PV-XOuDIDs7_UNlAxzsW7dkiUDEwvTUnm4YPMLYByEYqK91UBqYuQfQ3dYXUD/s1600/IMG_2291.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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I would be lying if I were to say it was easy to leave my family on Christmas Eve and not spend Christmas and my sister's birthday with her for the first time in my life. I can finally understand the challenges newly married couples face when it comes to the "splitting" the holidays. This really tests the true the essence of marriage; support, flexibility, and compromise. Compromising does not mean giving up something you enjoy (although that may happen), it means to get through something and reach an agreement with your partner that has its own intrinsic benefits. During this specific change for me, the support from both families was amazing, completely appreciated, and ultimately made our first married Christmas a successful one. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitSIHdWIsxOp-sQPg8j7EvafHdZ5FQIkwTuTuoW1RaUtOsIjdQ9ROpkA8mmHqhDKU06RV-tTf_hz_AahrVSOl2QpMO0HtvyVoI1jeNMBpdCBJsDY8MaHsYqm6DDrTPb8BvRbyahK_iKWm/s1600/IMG_2300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitSIHdWIsxOp-sQPg8j7EvafHdZ5FQIkwTuTuoW1RaUtOsIjdQ9ROpkA8mmHqhDKU06RV-tTf_hz_AahrVSOl2QpMO0HtvyVoI1jeNMBpdCBJsDY8MaHsYqm6DDrTPb8BvRbyahK_iKWm/s1600/IMG_2300.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a>I can't thank Dave and Ellen enough for welcoming me into their family in such a genuine way, while also thanking my parents for being so supportive in some of the changes that marriage brings your way as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Change is a complicated matter when it comes to humans, they either really love it or hate it. If it requires effort, they hate it. If it provides pleasure, they love it. If there is no perceived problem, there is no big change. Sometimes you don't know what direction to head in, or it doesn't excite you to make changes. Once you are able to see that every ounce of effort is worth the change you are making, it is a no brainer. The value of change and growth is overwhelming and the support is monumental. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Kate and I are now able to look at each other, give a firm high-five,<br />
and say that we have successfully had our first married Holidays! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoTKTva2BMM-B-J_6K7MHYUxyFuGb2u0AKdQpratCRby3xaW6JPwotmFh-r9htSX_VyN1sccw3UetrcfTI9UzxilHN2fPrY0kPJTnQ4UUE9G-n5IRlbDSuQBEIvs03XbxloJGwwaLLeyYr/s1600/Wilson+Family+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoTKTva2BMM-B-J_6K7MHYUxyFuGb2u0AKdQpratCRby3xaW6JPwotmFh-r9htSX_VyN1sccw3UetrcfTI9UzxilHN2fPrY0kPJTnQ4UUE9G-n5IRlbDSuQBEIvs03XbxloJGwwaLLeyYr/s1600/Wilson+Family+Pic.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: baskin bell;"><span style="color: red;"><font size="26">HAPPY HOLIDAYS!</span></span></span></div></font><br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-39073741783929666192014-12-18T11:03:00.000-05:002014-12-18T11:04:59.146-05:00Gift Giving: The Stress, The Effort, The Season of Giving<span style="font-size: large;">The holiday season is typically filled with so many positive feelings. For some though, the thought of their "dysfunctional family" getting together, having to buy gifts, sign cards, wrap presents, and potentionally travel many miles seems like an absolute nightmare.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjRH2KDzSMykgW0WDNA9b2JFjUq7zjW324yRFvL9ZxkTxVVq4GZ8OsZu8nH_gmnx0LGwlve_6BD-3_I80Tlq7Ucab0U9i3RkY2pzDiAzcg_4013Zxyjii0TWvzG7nhQ1uOOR2bgbBuKlT/s1600/wejustgonuts_dvd.original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjRH2KDzSMykgW0WDNA9b2JFjUq7zjW324yRFvL9ZxkTxVVq4GZ8OsZu8nH_gmnx0LGwlve_6BD-3_I80Tlq7Ucab0U9i3RkY2pzDiAzcg_4013Zxyjii0TWvzG7nhQ1uOOR2bgbBuKlT/s1600/wejustgonuts_dvd.original.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I understand where they are coming from with the whole wrapping of the gifts piece, not my strength and never will be, I have accepted this reality of mine and my sisters have driven home the point many times. Understandably, the holidays can be a stressful time. For this reason I want to provide you with a small piece of advice while taking on one aspect of the holidays, gift giving. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How the hell are you supposed to know exactly what to get your wife, children, significant other, or any family member for that matter when they either provide you with a "60 item list" or say "it's the thought that counts". Either scenario leaves you in a precarious spot of wondering, stressing, and wishing someone else could do this for you. Fear not though!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I am hear to give you some advice on how to make gift giving a little easier for you this holiday.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbxzc6HXw2pgwwOUN7psiZMLnJbZWS0DZWm6Nn2f07GUwQPfETm5rqcOp8oXC7HQ4EDRHH7T7BwGhHTwQEsgO3Fh_VBR0X6vkjE8Ks2-3-tce0mgkbyZKl_83n2QIONdQ9Q5Io7eBxEjo/s1600/gift-giving-770.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbxzc6HXw2pgwwOUN7psiZMLnJbZWS0DZWm6Nn2f07GUwQPfETm5rqcOp8oXC7HQ4EDRHH7T7BwGhHTwQEsgO3Fh_VBR0X6vkjE8Ks2-3-tce0mgkbyZKl_83n2QIONdQ9Q5Io7eBxEjo/s1600/gift-giving-770.png" height="152" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">First, remember what you are doing in the first place. You are giving! A selfless act that is done for somebody else without the expectation of reciprocation. Remind yourself that the overall act of giving a gift is positive, selfless, and appreciated one (although sometimes it may not seem that way!). </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are a couple rules to follow (some from personal experience and others just rules)</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><u>1. Put effort into your card and wrapping.</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This point is even more true when gifting for females. They care just as much about what's in the card and the efforts put into wrapping as they do the present. Stay honest and genuine with your words.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><u>2. Stay within your means.</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Listen, I understand you may be a "people pleaser" or the whole nature of the holidays has put you in a generous mood, but set a budget and stay to it. Sometimes this can be a fun challenge for a couple. My wife and I for the holidays cap it off at $100, which for some may be a lot and for others not, but regardless it forces you to get creative while keeping that urge to overspend in check.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">3. Gifts aren't everything.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Believe it or not your material things that you own (house, car, electronics..etc) can only account for 10% of your happiness. The other 90% is how you react to these things. People, including you, place the meaning in the gifts, the words you share in your card, and the time you choose to spend with loved ones. Choose wisely, communicate genuinely, and stay in the moment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, you may still be stressed moving forward into the holiday, but before giving up on it, try at least one of the pieces of advice out for size. Works for me, and for many other people. Join the population of individuals that actually look forward to this season of giving and drown out (at least temporarily) your inner Scrooge.</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-51930493152847159042014-11-04T10:10:00.001-05:002014-11-04T10:10:19.201-05:00Grow a Mustache and Save Mankind <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvX-2qvOycTHFJav0bzvtb4U3xpNopveHt_ZgQeYQjGLnBjX5fI1vt4JBgU7nrrKZVHJjVmya7dv17unSD-Ccto8SdtQNYtqiwws_t60XaCtaVSP2DI4nyphwQQ7__NKC7Of4ecL9RWbC/s1600/movember_logo1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvX-2qvOycTHFJav0bzvtb4U3xpNopveHt_ZgQeYQjGLnBjX5fI1vt4JBgU7nrrKZVHJjVmya7dv17unSD-Ccto8SdtQNYtqiwws_t60XaCtaVSP2DI4nyphwQQ7__NKC7Of4ecL9RWbC/s1600/movember_logo1.jpeg" height="172" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Movember Foundation is the leading global organization committed to changing the face of men’s health.</div>
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The Movember community has raised $559 million to date and funded over 800 programs in 21 countries. This work is saving and improving the lives of men affected by prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health problems.</div>
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The Movember Foundation challenges men to grow moustaches during Movember (formerly known as November), to spark conversation and raise vital funds for its men’s health programs. To date, 4 million moustaches have been grown worldwide, but we won't stop growing as long as serious men’s health issues exist.</div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Take a look at the Movember Men's Health Checklist </span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">to See What You Need to Be On Top Of:</span></u></b></div>
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<img alt="" height="165" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_Header2mb.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="324" /></div>
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<table border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; height: 1910px; line-height: 18px; width: 697px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="vertical-align: top;"><img alt="" height="202" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_20.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="335" /><br /><b>BLOOD PRESSURE</b> Every 2 years or annually if high/low<br /><br /><b>FASTING CHOLESTEROL</b> Every 5 years or more frequently<br />with an abnormal test result<br /><br /><b>DENTAL HEALTH</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>EYE HEALTH</b> Every 2 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>IMMUNIZATIONS</b> Tetanus-diphtheria at age 19 and annual<br />flu vaccine<br /><br /><b>SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES</b> Regular Checks and HPV vaccine if appropriate<br /><br /><b>SKIN CANCER </b>Look for marks or changes on your skin and have a doctor do an annual skin check<br /><br /><b>TESTICULAR CANCER</b> Monthly self-exam, especially<br />if there is a family history</td><td><img alt="" height="204" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_30.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="334" /><br /><b>BLOOD PRESSURE</b> Every 2 years or annually if high/low<br /><br /><b>FASTING CHOLESTEROL</b> Every 5 years or more frequently with an abnormal test result<br /><br /><b>DENTAL HEALTH</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>EYE HEALTH</b> Every 2 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>IMMUNIZATIONS</b> Tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years and annual flu vaccine<br /><br /><b>SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES</b> Regular checks, if appropriate<br /><br /><b>SKIN CANCER</b> Look for marks or changes on your skin and have a doctor do an annual skin check<br /><br /><b>TESTICULAR CANCER</b> Monthly self-exam, especially if there is a family history</td></tr>
<tr><td style="vertical-align: top;"><img alt="" height="204" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_40.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="335" /><br /><b>BLOOD PRESSURE</b> Every 2 years or annually if high/low<br /><br /><b>FASTING CHOLESTEROL & INFLAMMATION MARKERS</b><br />Every 3-5 years or more frequently with an abnormal test result<br /><br /><b>DENTAL HEALTH</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DIABETES</b> Blood sugar test –hemoglobin A1c– at age 45,<br />or earlier if overweight or other risk factors are present<br /><br /><b>EYE HEALTH</b> Every 2 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>IMMUNIZATIONS</b> Tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years and annual flu vaccine<br /><br /><b>PROSTATE CANCER</b> Baseline PSA test if African-American<br />or there is a family history; age 50 otherwise<br /><br /><b>SKIN CANCER</b> Look for marks or changes on your skin<br />and have a doctor do an annual skin check<br /><br /><b>DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR</b> The role of aspirin to lower risks for certain cancers and heart disease. The role of statins (cholesterol lowering drugs) for prevention of heart disease</td><td><img alt="" height="203" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_50.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="334" /><br /><b>BLOOD PRESSURE</b> Every 2 years or annually if high/low<br /><br /><b>FASTING CHOLESTEROL & INFLAMMATION MARKERS</b> Every 3-5 years or more frequently with an abnormal test result<br /><br /><b>COLORECTAL CANCER</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DENTAL HEALTH</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DIABETES</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>EYE HEALTH</b> Every 2 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>IMMUNIZATIONS</b> Tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years and annual flu vaccine<br /><br /><b>OSTEOPOROSIS</b> If risk factors are present<br /><br /><b>PROSTATE CANCER</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>SKIN CANCER</b> Look for marks or changes on your skin and have a doctor do an annual skin check<br /><br /><b>DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR</b> The role of aspirin to lower risks for certain cancers and heart disease. The role of statins (cholesterol lowering drugs) for prevention of heart disease</td></tr>
<tr><td style="vertical-align: top;"><br /><img alt="" height="203" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_60.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="335" /><br /><b>ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND</b> Men between ages 65–75 who have smoked<br /><br /><b>BLOOD PRESSURE</b> Every 2 years or annually if high/low<br /><br /><b>FASTING CHOLESTEROL & INFLAMMATION MARKERS</b><br />Every 5 years or more frequently with an abnormal test result<br /><br /><b>COLORECTAL CANCER</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DENTAL HEALTH</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DIABETES</b> Every 3 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>EYE HEALTH</b> Every 2 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>IMMUNIZATIONS</b> Tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years, annual flu vaccine, and shingles/herpes zoster vaccine once after age 60<br /><br /><b>HEARING</b> If you are over age 65, have your hearing checked<br /><br /><b>OSTEOPOROSIS</b> If risk factors are present<br /><br /><b>PROSTATE CANCER</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>SKIN CANCER</b> Look for marks or changes on your skin<br />and have a doctor do an annual skin check<br /><br /><b>DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR</b> The role of aspirin to lower risks for certain cancers and heart disease. The role of statins (cholesterol lowering drugs) for prevention of heart disease</td><td style="vertical-align: top;"><br /><img alt="" height="203" src="http://us.movember.com/uploads/images/2012/Mens%20Health/MG261-Check_70_%2B.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px;" width="334" /><br /><b>ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND</b> Men between ages 65–75 who have smoked<br /><br /><b>BLOOD PRESSURE</b> Every 2 years or annually if high/low<br /><br /><b>FASTING CHOLESTEROL & INFLAMMATION MARKERS</b> Every 5 years or more frequently with an abnormal test result<br /><br /><b>COLORECTAL CANCER</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DENTAL HEALTH</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>DIABETES</b> Every 3 years or as doctor recommends.<br /><br /><b>EYE HEALTH</b> Every 2 years or as doctor recommends<br /><br /><b>IMMUNIZATIONS</b> Tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years, annual flu vaccine, and pneumococcal vaccine after age 65<br /><br /><b>HEARING</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>PROSTATE CANCER</b> Annual check up<br /><br /><b>SKIN CANCER</b> Look for marks or changes on your skin and have a doctor do an annual skin check<br /><br /><b>DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR</b> The role of aspirin to lower risks for certain cancers and heart disease. The role of statins (cholesterol lowering drugs) for prevention of heart disease</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-88102164727965991232014-10-01T13:46:00.003-04:002014-10-01T13:46:48.197-04:00Swish Away Your Negative Thoughts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Whether you are good or bad at if, we ALL visualize things before doing it. Just like we all have that pesky inner voice and dialogue that never seems to mute itself. I want to present you with a technique I have used with many clients and myself that is a powerful way to redirect your negative thoughts, feelings, and mind-states.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Humans are condition to "see this" and then "feel this". That is more then acceptable when what your seeing and thinking is positive. We all know this is frequently not the case. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use the "Swish Technique" video and step by step visual instructions to redirect that negative thinking and regain some positive control back in your life. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span></div><br><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 1: Empty Movie Theatre</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: x-large;">Imagine you are sitting in an empty movie theatre with </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: x-large;">a blank movie screen in front of you. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWboXLHuiXHmWWc8WxUDKW74dAANeVR-1V7Xa3d1Vjx2gNCqW2Xs_NF2k0Soag8KHJ7tjQJ98UTncJJBKdliAXJjq-51BmdTd29EGx9IXEfrutwTdPx9crsaO4uqE-Ys7UdGcU7XySaar/s1600/Swish+Technique+blank+screen.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWboXLHuiXHmWWc8WxUDKW74dAANeVR-1V7Xa3d1Vjx2gNCqW2Xs_NF2k0Soag8KHJ7tjQJ98UTncJJBKdliAXJjq-51BmdTd29EGx9IXEfrutwTdPx9crsaO4uqE-Ys7UdGcU7XySaar/s1600/Swish+Technique+blank+screen.png" height="512" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWboXLHuiXHmWWc8WxUDKW74dAANeVR-1V7Xa3d1Vjx2gNCqW2Xs_NF2k0Soag8KHJ7tjQJ98UTncJJBKdliAXJjq-51BmdTd29EGx9IXEfrutwTdPx9crsaO4uqE-Ys7UdGcU7XySaar/s1600/Swish+Technique+blank+screen.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 2: Create a Negative Picture "A"</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Create an image that creates negative emotions and </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>thoughts such as, anxiety and fear.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhok_uIiR8nlUKGyTqkJ6rsguIGhsNowMcH9UCiJECVfRhvASloUT5gYJgRo-oVGH6v5fAP0sXwZwM35-wJ71PFxynCCNkOTRghLoc5GQLNHf7v-jCl5t3YwniibUe3xcWuQVm0ux1BwIJE/s1600/Swish+Technique+Negative+Pic+without+Pos.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhok_uIiR8nlUKGyTqkJ6rsguIGhsNowMcH9UCiJECVfRhvASloUT5gYJgRo-oVGH6v5fAP0sXwZwM35-wJ71PFxynCCNkOTRghLoc5GQLNHf7v-jCl5t3YwniibUe3xcWuQVm0ux1BwIJE/s1600/Swish+Technique+Negative+Pic+without+Pos.png" height="512" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 3: Create a Positive Picture "B"</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Create an image that creates very clear positive emotions and thoughts such as, confidence, happiness, and excitement.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3VDml7OcMSMjDlfQzygnHPzrgGlEiLjIfp6YgjjMaO3uEXRFsstHbq-albHktF1n4KvBhFN7J5HIzx7dsKAgcZwbtgrZIb-PPaYcZ8msM2Xku7PIc3wlPiuf3g0siNLKdYA1eTL-tE2z/s1600/Swish+Technique+Positive+Picture.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3VDml7OcMSMjDlfQzygnHPzrgGlEiLjIfp6YgjjMaO3uEXRFsstHbq-albHktF1n4KvBhFN7J5HIzx7dsKAgcZwbtgrZIb-PPaYcZ8msM2Xku7PIc3wlPiuf3g0siNLKdYA1eTL-tE2z/s1600/Swish+Technique+Positive+Picture.png" height="512" width="640" /></a><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: x-large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b>Step 4: Put Negative Picture "A" Up </b><b>With a Small Positive Picture "B"</b></span><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>With picture "A" back up on the screen, make picture "b" the size of a postage stamp and place it down in the corner of the movie screen. You <u>know</u> what this small picture contain, although you may not be able to see all the details while it is this small.</i></span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82n1l9xnONoQzYOLphlWixMgTDUfVB_oyGgp9SQ4JcYSHbn1bua9VZdgsg3e2DBicx3She23M8ZHrrPgijZls0cXzTeXWjV7YlVcvjLkrmDGw-6_oJ22SjtqM0_CIH4KCETFj-7NUI73P/s1600/Swish+Technique+Positive+Pic+Shrink+Down.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82n1l9xnONoQzYOLphlWixMgTDUfVB_oyGgp9SQ4JcYSHbn1bua9VZdgsg3e2DBicx3She23M8ZHrrPgijZls0cXzTeXWjV7YlVcvjLkrmDGw-6_oJ22SjtqM0_CIH4KCETFj-7NUI73P/s1600/Swish+Technique+Positive+Pic+Shrink+Down.png" height="512" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR3lpvQj700e5JhkoZuELu5_xwREgmC1tInbsaO3CiM2sQXev0lBC7vNH_X8RGh-cbAec3_ePDAjfEdo6eojunJAlMky9dR1-SvARHCCTUzAO6dnQBAyHAa6WwbkpUUXNSeRtKKuEiQ3r-/s1600/Swish+Technique+Negative+Picture.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR3lpvQj700e5JhkoZuELu5_xwREgmC1tInbsaO3CiM2sQXev0lBC7vNH_X8RGh-cbAec3_ePDAjfEdo6eojunJAlMky9dR1-SvARHCCTUzAO6dnQBAyHAa6WwbkpUUXNSeRtKKuEiQ3r-/s1600/Swish+Technique+Negative+Picture.png" height="512" width="640" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Step 5: Count Down 3-2-1 and </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Make a Loud SWISHHH!</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>With picture "A" on the screen and the small picture "B" in the lower corner you will count down from 3 to 1 and at 1 you will make a loud "swishhh" sound. During that "swishhh" sound you will take the small picture "B" and blow it up to take over the entire screen. You now no longer can see negative picture "A" and can only see positive picture "B".</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilx_R64VHfHTRWCjRXCiMassIC8rUnagsgwh6Hxn8zUPcB8KO8pNVaNTudx-GLxkqMcVD-kf4JesIAmqdtQTcU6z8wB0KFWk-UF9FRA92c0Gx63q4ErbACzCIGEjkbYLWcLgvaAuPdP1RL/s1600/Swish+Technique+321.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilx_R64VHfHTRWCjRXCiMassIC8rUnagsgwh6Hxn8zUPcB8KO8pNVaNTudx-GLxkqMcVD-kf4JesIAmqdtQTcU6z8wB0KFWk-UF9FRA92c0Gx63q4ErbACzCIGEjkbYLWcLgvaAuPdP1RL/s1600/Swish+Technique+321.png" height="512" width="640" /></a><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Step 6: Look At Positive Picture "B" and State the Positive Emotions You Feel Seeing It</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Now that positive picture "B" is on the big screen, take it in and feel the positivity. Ask yourself, "How do I feel seeing this positive picture". Really try and associate the positive emotions and thoughts with the picture.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXjwD9t7ewSA_Ha7zefIK_UZZjwqS03d3tTqV3ftIMme_5wV4g0Gifq3PJuKqZY9eAwhhUOYJqh3bVln9ufJkGXIg5sQ6JwxqYqV3D436V_Mh3IzyHVQJyAkU812mSpSo-9VeJOTcwfhL/s1600/Swish+Technique+Negative+Picture+Blow+Up.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXjwD9t7ewSA_Ha7zefIK_UZZjwqS03d3tTqV3ftIMme_5wV4g0Gifq3PJuKqZY9eAwhhUOYJqh3bVln9ufJkGXIg5sQ6JwxqYqV3D436V_Mh3IzyHVQJyAkU812mSpSo-9VeJOTcwfhL/s1600/Swish+Technique+Negative+Picture+Blow+Up.png" height="512" width="640" /></a><b></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Step 7: Clear Your Mind and Repeat</span></b></b></div><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: x-large;">Congratulations on completing round one! Now clear your mind by standing up, counting, clapping your hands, and doing what's necessary to clear that noggin of yours. You are going to repeat this entire process 7-8x. </i></span><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>That's it! Use this technique to redirect your thoughts and recondition your responses to particular circumstances and environments. </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>ENJOY!</b></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-18084325745553876832014-09-25T09:48:00.001-04:002014-09-25T09:48:12.164-04:00There Is No Off Switch!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVt2IqaBh_HIJqMWQPSzGNWW6oNT27mwMCULELkWWLOtpXlWO5Sw674qLxPBDJipEI11KQo6eI-Oz3CyF6MWcQRnv9sdUWlYCLD_2Jk5vycYIsTbRtAkzLspsAEvDRzS3RchHTV1cxgX-K/s1600/Child-Listening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVt2IqaBh_HIJqMWQPSzGNWW6oNT27mwMCULELkWWLOtpXlWO5Sw674qLxPBDJipEI11KQo6eI-Oz3CyF6MWcQRnv9sdUWlYCLD_2Jk5vycYIsTbRtAkzLspsAEvDRzS3RchHTV1cxgX-K/s1600/Child-Listening.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the many things that human's possess that never shuts off is our ears. Even when we are sleeping, we are listening. In such a noisy world full of distractions, loud noises, and multi-tasking, how are we actually able to listen to anything worthwhile?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7mbhWeu-bjEwC8_G5tYvYBhMvZUTYTogfKAqaWtKJihzZanDCT3rLopU7s1SKcza5RaCAeMdI3LDygdlcy0LGHjmbs6Mft8z_WLcNdmTfSFThd-rOwtYfAs0eqcSu37lBFfA0YmTS6ej/s1600/60%25.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="60%" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7mbhWeu-bjEwC8_G5tYvYBhMvZUTYTogfKAqaWtKJihzZanDCT3rLopU7s1SKcza5RaCAeMdI3LDygdlcy0LGHjmbs6Mft8z_WLcNdmTfSFThd-rOwtYfAs0eqcSu37lBFfA0YmTS6ej/s1600/60%25.png" height="122" title="Communication" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #45818e;">Is listening to those around us even possible anymore?</span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNDpwyxtAzUPQpEucFPQc7SNZSUK-r8YKPzaJm-mh5WBBplukIKZ2LuOYrRgM8jzr0oyIN6Te32ZN40NDwR22lgVRIl05GqHP_x4IiPOWBmE-Tfoh_o7-Y0ka0s0PEteR3VrwT0TPsDhP/s1600/25%25.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="25 percent" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNDpwyxtAzUPQpEucFPQc7SNZSUK-r8YKPzaJm-mh5WBBplukIKZ2LuOYrRgM8jzr0oyIN6Te32ZN40NDwR22lgVRIl05GqHP_x4IiPOWBmE-Tfoh_o7-Y0ka0s0PEteR3VrwT0TPsDhP/s1600/25%25.png" height="111" title="Listening" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #45818e;">Something is wrong here, right?</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Humans use listening to gain meaning through sound, but in a world so noisy this requires more energy then ever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take for instance being on a subway and looking around at how many people are wearing headphones, listening to their music. These people may seem like the are attempting to fully devote their ears to their music and are fully focused in on it. What this creates though is a bunch of individuals isolating themselves and not actually listening to those around them. It is sometimes no wonder why people find it hard to communicate, relate, and connect with people. <u><b>We are frequently in our own worlds!</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What needs to happen to regain this integral piece of communication and connection. The piece that helps us understand each other, gain meaning from one another, and exist together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well... here are 3 steps to start regaining our ability to listen:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhns-yBCfQxeN7ktyIAgulwCHWwtFXmhtKco6XiWqHuXIj2jRXuFfo5q4sM4Ht3Y7n7gHBLeoleLLJdh-OJSuJcTROL9RcdKNpmP_yTEIfQRlDguj9egf5Pv5cwSH7a0jdLrsPdyY5FBwHd/s1600/step+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhns-yBCfQxeN7ktyIAgulwCHWwtFXmhtKco6XiWqHuXIj2jRXuFfo5q4sM4Ht3Y7n7gHBLeoleLLJdh-OJSuJcTROL9RcdKNpmP_yTEIfQRlDguj9egf5Pv5cwSH7a0jdLrsPdyY5FBwHd/s1600/step+1.png" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Reboot Our Ears: </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take 3 minutes (only 90 seconds) of silence a day (or quietness). This actually helps your ears recalibrate themselves. Returning them to a place of higher performance.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VfBHL01m1ALga_mYLR9eFUkm40t3o_8etIov6IX0x06NZGteeEmIP8tdchMcdqFQahjgGhFlzzGYDGxgAuUV2sm3Scjl5QE3w2FGhLeZVx7W6ghCyJbYwM4fVnfvB6DtuJw4a2hcR9bN/s1600/step+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VfBHL01m1ALga_mYLR9eFUkm40t3o_8etIov6IX0x06NZGteeEmIP8tdchMcdqFQahjgGhFlzzGYDGxgAuUV2sm3Scjl5QE3w2FGhLeZVx7W6ghCyJbYwM4fVnfvB6DtuJw4a2hcR9bN/s1600/step+2.png" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #e69138;">Relate Sounds: </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some people find particular noises "annoying" or "distracting", such as an air-conditioner, a truck/train going by, or a baby crying. Try to take some of the sounds you hear on a day to day basis and relate them to something positive. Imagine your world when those sounds don't piss you off or get you in a negative mood. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ivwWg4pFlLgahG2RCDzx48zjcz4aEJal07XKIF0qLQRtf-iOMvYPjm6FUOAtmXiqkHaBsnlqclKMjmdANmbQKJD23pj72UJ01DAcscACAZaiKIIuBHGp7gA6PfYyAI_BIOlU4-G_kBgL/s1600/step+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ivwWg4pFlLgahG2RCDzx48zjcz4aEJal07XKIF0qLQRtf-iOMvYPjm6FUOAtmXiqkHaBsnlqclKMjmdANmbQKJD23pj72UJ01DAcscACAZaiKIIuBHGp7gA6PfYyAI_BIOlU4-G_kBgL/s1600/step+3.png" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Follow the Rules:</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So we have lost our ability to fully listen to those around us which has resulted in retaining only 25% of what we listen to! We are better then that, and here is an acronym that will help you retain more information.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>R.A.S.A.</b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #bf9000;">R eceive:</span> </b>Pay attention to the person. (eye contact, look at their lips, stay focused)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">A ppreciate:</span></b> Use small sounds/word to appreciate what the person is saying (hmm, okay, yes...etc)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">S ummarize:</span> </b>Old trick in the book. If you reflect back some of the information you were just told it will not only help you remember it but will make the other person feel appreciated and respected. (try starting the summary by saying "So")</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">A sk:</span> </b>Use relevant questions as a way of expressing interest, staying engaged, and as another staple to retain more information.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Remember that listening is how we understand each other and the things around us. It is always one of the top issues in relationships and families. It is worth paying close attention to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Some of the information provided above was derived from Julian Teasure's TED Talk "5 Ways to Listen Better".</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-7548869071213618592014-09-11T10:58:00.002-04:002014-09-11T10:58:56.927-04:00You Have a Secret Power<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Why do adults love being around children? </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do they have special powers, are we naturally drawn to them, or do they uncover a piece of us that wishes </span><span style="font-size: large;">we could be just as </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">happy as they are?</span></div>
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</span> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghLGPQHGK63zJw7PpzzJiJxv0n3H39249u6bXr2XFNkpaKwCaVOaXvaHe2b1IO7rlIfPhxTLWZP4yRgErdj55QOG99INzT2f_GOpqPRnNmY1vPilXzrHMobHZUgRZcRtr19L3y-0Jlw2p/s1600/Kids+Smile.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghLGPQHGK63zJw7PpzzJiJxv0n3H39249u6bXr2XFNkpaKwCaVOaXvaHe2b1IO7rlIfPhxTLWZP4yRgErdj55QOG99INzT2f_GOpqPRnNmY1vPilXzrHMobHZUgRZcRtr19L3y-0Jlw2p/s1600/Kids+Smile.png" height="249" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">One thing is for sure, they smile and they do it a lot. When you compare it to their older counterparts, adults, there is no comparison. Whether the numbers are spot on or off by a bit, the jury is no longer out, kids laugh and smile far more than adults. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1POi6Ewev3-RHZdtyepU1otZKgh5lnXP8q7sku2uWKb3FffT3U_Z9eiiCZ_4R-tr_v6mW1rhznDkM2PHPVJFMpqyWBK4L0jkRla0EW-cjTjpNIQfdKdVBIEkWG9kuVrzwPhOmgELZ7TO/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-09-11+at+10.06.56+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1POi6Ewev3-RHZdtyepU1otZKgh5lnXP8q7sku2uWKb3FffT3U_Z9eiiCZ_4R-tr_v6mW1rhznDkM2PHPVJFMpqyWBK4L0jkRla0EW-cjTjpNIQfdKdVBIEkWG9kuVrzwPhOmgELZ7TO/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-09-11+at+10.06.56+AM.png" height="258" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">The good news is that you have access to this super power as well. Some things you should know about smiling before moving forward, so that you can really get an idea of the power of your smiles. </span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;"> 1. ONE SMILE = 2,000 Bars of Chocolate</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Research shows that one genuine smile produces the same amount of brain activity as eating 2,000 bars of chocolate.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> 2. ONE SMILE = $25,000</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">British researchers found that one smile provide the same amount of brain stimulation as receiving $25,000. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> 3. We smile before being born.</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">3D Ultrasound technology is able to show that developing babies actually smile in the womb!</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now that we know the power of smiling, lets look at the smiling cycle and how smiling impacts us as well as other people. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEsMbb8lkRtDBcOLY0FxY3kggjLZbDJl7uj4PDqfaQo4-_h_ubXDxKZ1W4x8hoC9nZQQRHhSE5CuR1L6onEXeyvTTdDRv1yrG3oGV83qh43qu04WVkPrtfvSLUq1DLvBaHyXkondwBYVSb/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-09-10+at+12.21.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEsMbb8lkRtDBcOLY0FxY3kggjLZbDJl7uj4PDqfaQo4-_h_ubXDxKZ1W4x8hoC9nZQQRHhSE5CuR1L6onEXeyvTTdDRv1yrG3oGV83qh43qu04WVkPrtfvSLUq1DLvBaHyXkondwBYVSb/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-09-10+at+12.21.49+PM.png" height="475" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1. <u>You Smile:</u> Just Because</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">2. <u>You Look Good and Feel Good:</u> Brain imaging and EEG shows that "feel good" hormones are released as a reaction to you smiling. It makes you feel better and more confident. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">3. <u>Others See You Smile:</u> When others see you smile, neurons known as "Mirror Neurons" encourage you to feel the same emotion that is in front of you, HAPPY! (check them out! <a href="http://www.apa.org/monitor/oct05/mirror.aspx">"The Mind's Mirror" American Psychological Association</a>) </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">4. <u>They Mimic You and Smile:</u> The same way that yawning seems to be contagious, smiles are as well. You see someone smile and naturally you desire to as well. Those Mirror Neurons at work once again! </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">5. <u>They Look Good and Feel Good:</u> If you look good and feel good while smiling, why can't others? Share the wealth! Those same "feel good" hormones, predominately <a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/232248.php">Serotonin</a>, are released when others smile as well.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">6. <u>You Smile:</u> It all will feed back to you or extend onto others. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: red;"><span>YOUR JOB</span></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Make sure to smile multiple times each day. Especially when feeling a little down. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Smile for your sake and others as well. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Your smiles impact others.</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8Tr7NYZUdyyuOjk63A_yd9kMPSoKDfMAWnn_BL86XZrFE-Y6Wx6SQl0SJCnzOvm_85aHAJ796d5Kzc1LkcgqgtcqTJYdQPIN7QATCc3DYmHLmZPo9lVxzyBxWVdIdm4Bgnwlpmgc4J6R/s1600/Elephant+Smiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8Tr7NYZUdyyuOjk63A_yd9kMPSoKDfMAWnn_BL86XZrFE-Y6Wx6SQl0SJCnzOvm_85aHAJ796d5Kzc1LkcgqgtcqTJYdQPIN7QATCc3DYmHLmZPo9lVxzyBxWVdIdm4Bgnwlpmgc4J6R/s1600/Elephant+Smiling.jpg" height="459" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-86940108780191844722014-09-02T10:28:00.004-04:002014-09-02T10:28:33.916-04:003 Life Lessons I Learned From My Wedding Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What turns out to be one of, if not the most, important days of your life....YOUR WEDDING!</div>
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For decades the "traditional wedding" has seem to be a thing of the past. Sure you have <i>old traditions</i> at your wedding but wedding counts exceeding 200 people, costs of $30,000+, ceremonies held outside of churches and synagogues, and new traditions that newlyweds want to establish for themselves for the first time simply show us that weddings are different these days.<br />
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One thing that hasn't changed over time (for most people), is that your wedding day is a learning experience. I want to share what I learned on my wedding day at Sakonnet Vineyards in Little Compton Rhode Island on August 9th, 2014.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhciKYNYdWcbWj73u5WXm_BsdGtHPUIk0aOrnPrBthOHLbZOo1GiD0ofqaY2oWr_OZ6_lS_nG-P_H0nRO67lHEGuVFTRw89nZWgaHwwVZIWhs8FU9jm7Ws7Ro3VCIrv5O-4V-MO_wfz3a4O/s1600/Wedding+Bell+Jar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhciKYNYdWcbWj73u5WXm_BsdGtHPUIk0aOrnPrBthOHLbZOo1GiD0ofqaY2oWr_OZ6_lS_nG-P_H0nRO67lHEGuVFTRw89nZWgaHwwVZIWhs8FU9jm7Ws7Ro3VCIrv5O-4V-MO_wfz3a4O/s1600/Wedding+Bell+Jar.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>3 Life Lessons From My Wedding</u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Take a Moment for Yourself.</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSV3vaMy_H1SYFKW-_GLxSDMoldCDnYgUS3AAYEDevgtqULIlQehv3t475clLsOkEfL4SrbEz6fnryhYl2Z74eDardD7x-XAhSm1KQZ2-MiCt4T92BCJNkhuAglDTC7bNwSxpxTB21bYe/s1600/Wedding+Dance+Dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSV3vaMy_H1SYFKW-_GLxSDMoldCDnYgUS3AAYEDevgtqULIlQehv3t475clLsOkEfL4SrbEz6fnryhYl2Z74eDardD7x-XAhSm1KQZ2-MiCt4T92BCJNkhuAglDTC7bNwSxpxTB21bYe/s1600/Wedding+Dance+Dip.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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Life gets pretty crazy at points. Our world can sometimes consist of our own expectations, external expectations, procrastination, multitasking, and so on. </div>
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When do you get a moment to slow down, savor the moment, be present and mindful, and witness what is going on around you? The answer is, you need to create this moment for yourself. A moment to yourself and in such a small amount of time (even a couple minutes), is enough to help you shift your focus, improve your mood, and become more mindful. </div>
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On Kate and my wedding day, during our first dance we were in our own bubble. My younger sister and her boyfriend sang our first song (January Wedding by The Avett Brothers, changed to "August Wedding" -- Check her out <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/whitneywolf">Whitney Wolf Music</a>). We heard it, but saw no one around, it was just us. My appreciation for the day drastically went up at that very moment.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Express Yourself</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mspXy7F5QVSEPCSZmpoBNz61tohNhegFC3Gh5TPEbGgEg0e5W54IEc0lIw5h3f8-7s78lGxeXCUMsNvU2GQlz597mMkQF5mAffFyoBDmWgbPHaEjWGVj5T8mAAa6mT6otdiCD37qgU_r/s1600/Wedding+Mouth+Open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mspXy7F5QVSEPCSZmpoBNz61tohNhegFC3Gh5TPEbGgEg0e5W54IEc0lIw5h3f8-7s78lGxeXCUMsNvU2GQlz597mMkQF5mAffFyoBDmWgbPHaEjWGVj5T8mAAa6mT6otdiCD37qgU_r/s1600/Wedding+Mouth+Open.jpg" height="636" width="640" /></a></div>
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We are human and are driven by emotions. The reality is, some emotions are easier to express than others. This means a couple things. First, find another source to express through such as, painting, music, writing...etc. Second, you deserve to express your emotions... intelligently. </div>
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Check out this site on<i> Emotional Intelligence </i>--> <a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/emotional-intelligence">What is Emotional Intelligence?</a></div>
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On my wedding day, I was excited, anxious, and so unbelievably happy. I made it a point to express all of those that day in their own respective ways. I believe this picture is a culmination of all three of those emotions coming out!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Be Part of Something Bigger</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIipeQBXIdtUiZveDgy-P6vrza-iojup-HrTGnuo9_4tRZd4lGjS05FR10oK7SYqAFz2RcByDboOfEJ-Ww7ODt0PIKc-lH6DkUmQUtcV0EkMDNwe5H5K3OmfDqgtnodclhYw-zSoQCkG9/s1600/Wedding+Wilson+Family+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIipeQBXIdtUiZveDgy-P6vrza-iojup-HrTGnuo9_4tRZd4lGjS05FR10oK7SYqAFz2RcByDboOfEJ-Ww7ODt0PIKc-lH6DkUmQUtcV0EkMDNwe5H5K3OmfDqgtnodclhYw-zSoQCkG9/s1600/Wedding+Wilson+Family+Pic.jpg" height="272" width="640" /></a></div>
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On August 9th of this year I became part of something bigger, an extended family that I truly have felt a part of for the past 5 years. To put it lightly...it felt good. </div>
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One undeniable human need in this world is for "connection/love". We desire to connect/love others and be connected/loved by others. One thing that most people look over is that our need for connection and love can be partially met and enhanced through being connected to other things like our environment, our health, the food we eat, and many more venues.</div>
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Find new sources in your life of connection and love to enhance your own experiences and meet your own needs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfHnBjeoU0zYoV_ywt0s_AidJ8PufBekLzl4mwB2LWY8ftoEy2fXd63mLoNkJdvTb9ZXIb2nte3K03GLEUWS8pzrMCK4hm6xiDN4wemcyRHJ7YFdNXZItNlf67nl2XJQ893ny1SCR8_hc/s1600/Wedding+Fist+Pump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfHnBjeoU0zYoV_ywt0s_AidJ8PufBekLzl4mwB2LWY8ftoEy2fXd63mLoNkJdvTb9ZXIb2nte3K03GLEUWS8pzrMCK4hm6xiDN4wemcyRHJ7YFdNXZItNlf67nl2XJQ893ny1SCR8_hc/s1600/Wedding+Fist+Pump.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>I LOVE YOU KATE WOLF!</b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-32184037285428736492014-08-18T15:11:00.000-04:002014-08-18T15:11:58.304-04:00Tinder, Match, eHarmony... OH MY! <span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I don't feel like picking a girl up at a bar."</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I always seem to meet a guy that is completely wrong for me."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"It is such an easy hook up."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"They didn't look like their profile picture."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those familiar with the online dating scene these thoughts may hit all to close to home. When it comes to trying <i>Plenty of Fish</i> or the recently popularized site <i>Tinder</i>, everyone seems to have such high hopes. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLwS80ryQpKZq3834qts3r4YURSL1aa6iKV2ytnoFV8H1KiWQ-Vlg4rWSQi0RQqRzX5ZohOzXonpNQIC9zifm4E2YQsCmww6oTvJ_dSi3qz9LTPNPABjI4hlgUZwltzzdaftxlqHuts65V/s1600/tinder.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLwS80ryQpKZq3834qts3r4YURSL1aa6iKV2ytnoFV8H1KiWQ-Vlg4rWSQi0RQqRzX5ZohOzXonpNQIC9zifm4E2YQsCmww6oTvJ_dSi3qz9LTPNPABjI4hlgUZwltzzdaftxlqHuts65V/s1600/tinder.png" height="232" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sure they take the "going out to meet someone" concept out of the equation and match individualizes based on personality, interests and relationship goals, but is this potentially causing more harm than good? This is in no way discounting the healthy and long lasting relationships that have bloomed from online dating, because there are many. Nor is this claiming that online dating is bad, in fact it helps many people connect with individuals they wouldn't have in the first place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For perspective sake, could pre-matching individuals be handicapping us by minimizing the real life challenges presented while trying to connect with someone in a less constructed social environment?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sure, that sounds like a hypothesis for a politically correct research paper, but the real question is "Why does this generation need online dating so bad?" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reasons I have heard so far:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I don't have enough time to go meet somebody." (very popular one)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I am not good at hitting on women/guys at a bar."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"It takes all the <i>middle stuff</i> out."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Online dating has its purposes, but the perspective I would like to provide you with is <b><u>how to use online dating principles to improve your non-online dating love life. </u></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">PRINCIPLE #1</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Proximity Principle</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7QXOkMwaq3lLZLZQeA2k73NJ1zzXvFnSHwp2E3VsrxDlZPGJiTTmwEqm9gc79Aupu-fn16Ez6K5DUQFpHkYfaW86Qvjf9Vn0LlJmcSlypisMynf8KQLGd3-4EnrxYwpX1x9zUIQdLaJW/s1600/large_hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7QXOkMwaq3lLZLZQeA2k73NJ1zzXvFnSHwp2E3VsrxDlZPGJiTTmwEqm9gc79Aupu-fn16Ez6K5DUQFpHkYfaW86Qvjf9Vn0LlJmcSlypisMynf8KQLGd3-4EnrxYwpX1x9zUIQdLaJW/s1600/large_hands.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Put simply, things that are closer to each other tend to stay together, get grouped together, and form interpersonal relationships. Tinder uses this technique quite wonderfully by searching for potential matches in your area. To steal some of this effect and apply it without an online dating profile, find local hang outs and places of interests. This could be a coffee shop/cafe, restaurant, parks...etc. Whatever it is, if it is closer to where you work, live, or typically hangout the likelihood of seeing the same people more then once will increase. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Read more... <a href="http://www.lawsofattraction.com/psychology/proximity/#">Law of Attraction: Proximity</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">PRINCIPLE #2</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">VULNERABILITY </span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Y3N4dh-V5xBI8zXr89c1uyRMmRPhaIBtBQix5Mz1Uf5TexAzYOc9pfQMnPbE7Cwb9N637ADz39phgyg2RjylUlVwIG3wnKN3aX2eFsRfFU1-hGAgUOBS7fobTGudo_OlmGwZhSOySuSB/s1600/dating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Y3N4dh-V5xBI8zXr89c1uyRMmRPhaIBtBQix5Mz1Uf5TexAzYOc9pfQMnPbE7Cwb9N637ADz39phgyg2RjylUlVwIG3wnKN3aX2eFsRfFU1-hGAgUOBS7fobTGudo_OlmGwZhSOySuSB/s1600/dating.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So you don't want to share your entire life and baggage on the first date or even first encounter but you do want to create a genuine connection. Online dating allows you put some of that information out there for others to judge whether or not it is in sync with their beliefs, values, and priorities. What you need to do is find that middle ground between "What time is it?" or "Great weather today" with "How many ex-girlfriends/boyfriends do you have" or "I would love to have kids". There is a time and place for this. Offer a little information that creates a small amount of vulnerability and let them know you are human. For example, when I first started dating my wife I told her that I grew up the middle child of two sisters and that is most likely why I am able to handle "chick-flicks". I could of been judged on this but instead it was a source of humor and connection.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">PRINCIPLE #3</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">LETS BE FRIENDS</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PLt0XG1pqkzljc1CaUzSQrSroesxt9GAneFdLo5LtlBpxwXyZCqXEKKM6zKVj3uOjaNWsGICJDq8GtR8V7Ex9Uwf0KfWQguH6q3_xutQz2-NOMbnXosrNEnb3FjryvX-VVxut9G6j4Mc/s1600/Finger+Friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PLt0XG1pqkzljc1CaUzSQrSroesxt9GAneFdLo5LtlBpxwXyZCqXEKKM6zKVj3uOjaNWsGICJDq8GtR8V7Ex9Uwf0KfWQguH6q3_xutQz2-NOMbnXosrNEnb3FjryvX-VVxut9G6j4Mc/s1600/Finger+Friends.jpg" height="202" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Regardless of your dating goals, it is more than okay to establish "non-romantic" relationships. In t<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">he </span><em style="line-height: 21px;">Journal of Social and Personal Relationships</em><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">, researchers found that couples who value their friendship over other aspects of their relationships report greater romance and sexual satisfaction over couples who look to their partners mostly for sexual gratification. Take the time to get to know somebody and establish a foundation to build off of. Sex is one aspect of a relationship and is popular thing for couples to focus on. If you meet somebody out, focus on building a genuine connection and not simply a physical one. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21px;"><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you are able to find these 3 principles useful in your </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21px;"><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">search for that special somebody. </span></b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-91396803572020154382014-07-21T17:29:00.001-04:002014-07-21T17:29:35.377-04:00Positive Experiences to Make You Happier<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/qH5cWZ9aE5A" width="480"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-90041632888702977442014-07-01T11:11:00.000-04:002014-07-01T11:11:28.657-04:00The Rules of Life: According to the Bonnaroo Music Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgD7RAmRuIQoHuMcwmMQtm7CD0Lwjx8bZ-qH6ZXTYaWzfedwmqjsfYxpMJOW5VlidJoXdnY4dmZZhB_b-YL2i0KsfWRmFxlA9xwZ_erMNksxOOZa7j4ad44-j_4b4WpdHs6LuN-V-oOkP/s1600/logo-bonnaroo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgD7RAmRuIQoHuMcwmMQtm7CD0Lwjx8bZ-qH6ZXTYaWzfedwmqjsfYxpMJOW5VlidJoXdnY4dmZZhB_b-YL2i0KsfWRmFxlA9xwZ_erMNksxOOZa7j4ad44-j_4b4WpdHs6LuN-V-oOkP/s1600/logo-bonnaroo.jpg" /></a></div>
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The basic building blocks of your life's journey and the decisions you make are your beliefs and the code you live by. For some, religion may provide these pieces. For others, past life experiences could contribute. Our belief system is dynamic and is pieced together from a wide array of sources.<br />
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After attending for the second time the Bonnaroo Music Festival 2014, I decided on reading their "Code and Terms" in the festival info section. This is where I realized two things. First, these "codes" are meant for everybody, everywhere, at any time. Second, I saw this "code" actually be put into effect and the result was 90,000-100,000 people in one area for 4 days maintaining peace.</div>
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Now I present to you, "The Rules of Life: According to the Bonnaroo Music Festival"</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">1. PREPARE THY SELF</span></div>
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<b><u>Bonnaroo Meaning</u>:</b> Pack the right stuff for the blazing Tennessee sun and four days of no showering. </div>
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<b><u>Life Meaning</u>: </b>One thing that makes humans unique is their ability to project into the future, to predict outcomes and prepare themselves. Unfortunately, we are not always accurate and can not always predict what life will bring our way. It has a funny way of throwing curve balls and wrenches at us sometimes. </div>
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Make sure you are equipped with effective coping mechanisms, support, and resources to battle even the hardest of life's challenges. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">2. PLAY AS A TEAM</span></div>
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<b><u>Bonnaroo Meaning</u>: </b>There is going to be so many friggin people here, just help each other out and all will be good. </div>
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<b><u>Life Meaning</u>: </b>Whether you like it or not, we all need some help sometimes. Lend a hand and support those around you, others will see and want to help back. Most of the time, people appreciate at least an offer to help let alone an actual helping hand. This could mean helping your partner out or a complete stranger. Either way, be the example of what a good teammate is. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">3. RADIATE POSITIVITY</span></div>
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<b><u>Bonnaroo Meaning</u>: </b>You are pretty much on vacation. Listen to awesome music, eat, hang out and be merry. </div>
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<b><u>Life Meaning</u>: </b>Ever heard of "Debbie Downer"? Negativity is infectious, well so is positivity. Don't just simply feel positive, radiate it so others will see. Research shows that positive emotions and events add to your happiness. Be pro-active in your positivity. Radiate the hell out of it.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">4. RESPECT THE FARM</span></div>
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<b><u>Bonnaroo Meaning</u>: </b>Don't throw trash on the ground, nobody wants to be sitting in your garbage. Use one of the hundreds of recycling, compost, and trash can around you. </div>
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<b><u>Life Meaning</u>:</b> Respect your environment. This doesn't simply mean to recycle, throw your trash in a can, or be more green, it also means to respect your own home, room, and body. Eat healthy, exercise, and keep your personal spaces clean. A clean body and clean home is a happy person!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">5. DON'T BE THAT GUY/GAL</span><br />
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<b><u>Bonnaroo Meaning</u>: </b>There are plenty of things to complain about. The heat, your legs hurting from standing so long, or the lack of showering at the festival. Don't bring down your own positive vibe along with your friends.<br />
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<b><u>Life Meaning</u>: </b>Life has challenging moments and we ALL experience them. Even when things are less then optimal, keep in mind that your mindset and emotions don't just affect you and have an impact on those around you. Remember to search for the positive in all that is thrown your way and to radiate positivity.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">6. STAY TRUE ROO</span><br />
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<b><u>Bonnaroo Meaning</u>: </b>When at Bonnaroo, everybody gets a long and thoroughly enjoys themselves. The problem is that Bonnaroo lasts only 4 days and your life continues afterwards. Implement the positive things you learned at Bonnaroo into your everyday life.<br />
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<b><u>Life Meaning</u>: </b>Don't radiate positivity for one day. Don't lend a helping hand one time. Don't find the positive in one circumstance. Don't treat your body and space with respect 1 day out of the week. Implement these strategies as frequently as possible and create your new normal!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If this code of ethics can get almost 100,000 people to be peaceful and happy for four days, I believe it can work for you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Examine your current lifestyle and see which "Rule of Life" you could afford to implement more frequently. Share your experience on YouTime Coaching's Facebook page --> </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/youtimecoach" style="font-size: x-large;">YouTime's FB Page</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-90271706897505863042014-05-21T17:45:00.002-04:002015-10-07T11:10:30.082-04:003 Important Things to Know About ChangeThe "Self-Help" field is a multi-billion dollar a year industry. By the figures alone, most people are consistently trying to improve themselves, experience change, and accomplish goals.<br />
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There is potential for significant harm when simply picking up a self-help book in the local bookstore. Here is a great clip of <a href="http://www.changeologybook.com/dr-john-norcross/">Dr. John Norcross</a> (one of the leading researchers in personal and professional change), sharing how there are actually only a couple, literally, a couple resources out there proven to work and how others can cause serious harm to you.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/-K09eXfT6uU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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If you skipped down to this before watching the clip, don't try taking a short-cut (that may say something about how you also approach your own personal and professional change). Go back and watch it.<br />
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Okay, so you have watched the clip and I want to now provide you with what I believe are <b><u><a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/">3 of the most important researched and proven to work strategies that will be vital to any self-change.</a></u></b><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Strategy 1:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"Nobody wants to achieve the negative"</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Imagine setting a goal, such as, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I want to stop procrastinating"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I want to not overeat" </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I want to stop being attracted to jerks"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I don't want to work a miserable job"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Does this sound all too familiar? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A huge number of individuals fall short in a fundamental piece to goal setting, which is, DO NOT SET NEGATIVE GOALS. Nobody wants to achieve a negative goal or move forward with it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Almost sounds conflicting..."I am going to achieve and make progress with the negative"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When setting your goal, make sure to set it in a "positive-frame" rather than a "negative frame". I will list some examples.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I will stop procrastinating" (negative frame)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"i will be more pro-active and assertive" (positive frame)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I don't want to overeat" (negative frame)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I will be more mindful and conscious regarding my meals" (positive frame)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moving towards something positive and something "gained" has a far more positive impact then trying to "avoid the negative" or "delete" something out of your life. The "positive frame" will help with your mental and physical endurance while pursuing the goal!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3pTOe9jUMcTHkMDAdFu4N7UwWcsC-T2W0Iy_JMvhr2yDYzCUmuiJLUpz8F7DeyH1Y75CKuV7Jf3VPYEqQe4ZzKMUZx9dyJVmhplelZvAla2p4isHDeKTo8264IghGj8XYYgiCQLw0g1c/s1600/Negative+Postive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3pTOe9jUMcTHkMDAdFu4N7UwWcsC-T2W0Iy_JMvhr2yDYzCUmuiJLUpz8F7DeyH1Y75CKuV7Jf3VPYEqQe4ZzKMUZx9dyJVmhplelZvAla2p4isHDeKTo8264IghGj8XYYgiCQLw0g1c/s1600/Negative+Postive.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Strategy 2:</b></u></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"Nobody wants to be alone"</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sure we all want to think that we can make changes, reach goals, and live amazing lives all by ourselves. As much as this sounds nice and empowering, research shows that it is absolutely necessary to have a support team along the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your social support team will not only help you progress with your goals, but is actually a huge factor in an individuals happiness!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is what you need to do. </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Make a list of specific ways you need support in achieving your change. </b> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Number the specific ways so you know exactly how many people you need on your "team"</b>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Start fielding a team by contacting people you know and specifically asking for their help in the way that you need it.</b> (remember that some may not be comfortable, knowledgeable, or willing to help out for many reasons. It is important you are clear with them about what you are trying to accomplish and ask them if they can support you in that way)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Keep your team updated throughout the process and stay connected! </b>(communicate with them if you need check ins, help with accountability...etc)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Things to think about regarding support:</i></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are different types of support, so different people should be included as each person offers something new. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some people aren't able to provide the support you need, so be clear with them about your needs and respect if they aren't able to help out. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You are not looking for friends and family to coach you. Many people would like to add their "5 cents" to the conversation. This is not the support you are looking for. That support comes from a trained and experienced Life Coach. </span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF14JtilY967cd4hmvgBLJl8-X1JIzQUixwnyUV_EHgM5i07PBuwndCCduyW2HlcxxviEt98HQeFhXa1r5w8QMgtcND30h6EzgNOoI5W2VCGnk_bSSLT3bO-7fKsmYjDhrQ1tBBW_YbiuG/s1600/Support.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF14JtilY967cd4hmvgBLJl8-X1JIzQUixwnyUV_EHgM5i07PBuwndCCduyW2HlcxxviEt98HQeFhXa1r5w8QMgtcND30h6EzgNOoI5W2VCGnk_bSSLT3bO-7fKsmYjDhrQ1tBBW_YbiuG/s1600/Support.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><u>Strategy 3:</u></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>"If you take steps backwards, you will want to stop walking"</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So you establish a specific, attainable, realistic, and timely goal that is in line with your values, now what?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the pieces I purposely left out of the above equation is making your goal "measurable". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>You MUST find ways to measure your progress.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Research shows that measuring progress can increase your self-confidence, motivation to continue, and happiness. On a simple level, take a second and think about why anybody would desire to continue pursuing something that you are not showing improvement or making progress on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Truth is, they don't want to continue! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In this day and age, technology can be your friend and help you track progress. Here is a link that will provide apps that help you track progress on numerous types of goals.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.changeologybook.com/resources/our-favorite-smart-phone-apps-for-self-change/">Link: Smart Phone Apps for Self-Change</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4k1oyjVKGwt4dMQZ0Npz2lD1QKatpmqGgV1zADQuk_2pUbWQvdLPjhAKS5d3_KG0woXwD7lWksAQNArb60Wuz7_HVe0MGdd63VskMM8UM-XqEjcc7T-Y4IYQC1azvPj_M9P5ndsBlyqEE/s1600/progress.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4k1oyjVKGwt4dMQZ0Npz2lD1QKatpmqGgV1zADQuk_2pUbWQvdLPjhAKS5d3_KG0woXwD7lWksAQNArb60Wuz7_HVe0MGdd63VskMM8UM-XqEjcc7T-Y4IYQC1azvPj_M9P5ndsBlyqEE/s1600/progress.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/">YouTime Coaching</a> provides <a href="http://www.youtimecoach.com/#!about/c66t"><span style="color: blue;">Life Coaching and Therapeutic Mentoring</span></a> to individuals and families. YouTime Coaching works side by side with individuals to help create direction, passion, and produce lasting personal and professional change. Together we create an environment for clients that truly delivers the necessary "<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="color_5" style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">YOU</span></span>" time needed to regain focus, motivation, and the desire to grow. Together, we will discover what truly motivates and drives your most successful decisions and behaviors.</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>YouTime Coaching will help define your goals, support systems, purpose and value to change, help find multiple ways of achieving it, and make the necessary shifts in body, language, and focus to get you there. Through working with a diverse population of clients, YouTime Coaching has successfully helped many adolescents, adults, parents, athletes, and those in the performing arts with building resiliency, motivation, confidence, and lasting personal and professional change. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="mailto:youtimecoaching@gmail.com">Contact YouTime Coaching today.</a> </b></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-41175953981570372862014-04-22T18:22:00.000-04:002014-04-22T18:22:03.502-04:006 Steps to Get Anybody On Your Side<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZpJFnc1YRCvr04ef9umPZ1ybmJqKdxbNNYDIDza5XwMA3i9_1co_SFKgDCEcOpcLG6qtILRaaa9RQT2p3FLN1beBOaPma3MPgi8aIjV_oas_F2sR92jV4jHngVKCIpkSAoHOzV8ZGNcu/s1600/Gary-Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZpJFnc1YRCvr04ef9umPZ1ybmJqKdxbNNYDIDza5XwMA3i9_1co_SFKgDCEcOpcLG6qtILRaaa9RQT2p3FLN1beBOaPma3MPgi8aIjV_oas_F2sR92jV4jHngVKCIpkSAoHOzV8ZGNcu/s1600/Gary-Photo.jpg" height="200" width="176" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sure he looks calm, cool, and collective, because he has to be! Former FBI negotiator Gary Noesner explains to us how to get anybody on your side. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are 6 keys steps that Gary shares with us. It is important to hit all of them as best as you can. If you feel like you can't manage that (not a big deal and not a simple task at the beginning) than simply tackle a couple that you are confident you can handle. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSigI_R4IWIWSfv8n9tzUjwIabbWaWKHhlSH4Gzo_HOPKL9lLurPSrE-hpj-5uWzF4R7Y-num3w2_TAKhAJkmRFggiFI3UgY_1R7GeX5-VV_Md-HSclNjFgrx2sHObq3OlQKyqtS7OmZm/s1600/negotiator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSigI_R4IWIWSfv8n9tzUjwIabbWaWKHhlSH4Gzo_HOPKL9lLurPSrE-hpj-5uWzF4R7Y-num3w2_TAKhAJkmRFggiFI3UgY_1R7GeX5-VV_Md-HSclNjFgrx2sHObq3OlQKyqtS7OmZm/s1600/negotiator.jpg" height="320" width="210" /></a><br />
<u><span style="font-size: large;">Step 1:</span></u><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Don't Try to Win</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In a hostage situation, we never go in saying "We're gonna wink and this person's gonna lose." Its not about getting you to comply with what I want or accept my point of view. It's about us working together to reach the best agreement we can. A win is a mutual thing.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">*YouTime Practical Applications* </span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Your relationship with your spouse, boss, or any other meaningful relationship.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdH30gu8iDYCPUnCoJDipmd2xckVXcVrDt7YZS9-Uq0YmebHnzDAWwFNZJaB-HR39XUy0DCL1YqfbNYyacaW5OXdqn7zdxNAoxv0JdGIQgzLpzxg5meaJI7Y9GuqeBNXxbSFETtJvRDZ7F/s1600/emotion-regulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdH30gu8iDYCPUnCoJDipmd2xckVXcVrDt7YZS9-Uq0YmebHnzDAWwFNZJaB-HR39XUy0DCL1YqfbNYyacaW5OXdqn7zdxNAoxv0JdGIQgzLpzxg5meaJI7Y9GuqeBNXxbSFETtJvRDZ7F/s1600/emotion-regulation.jpg" height="136" width="200" /></a><u><span style="font-size: large;">Step 2:</span></u></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Keep Your Emotions In Check</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Self-control is essential when trying to influence someone's decision-making process. If you get angry or display frustration, if your body language says you're pissed off, you've lost already. But if you behave in positive ways, it has a tendency to be mimicked. It's hard to have a two-way argument when only one person is arguing. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">*YouTime Practice Applications*</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Once again any meaningful relationships, when you are having a "bad day", when you need something from somebody.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Interested in the science of mimicking? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Check out this interesting article on <i>mirror neurons.</i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.apa.org/monitor/oct05/mirror.aspx">The Mind's Mirror - American Psychological Association</a></span></i><br />
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Step 3:</span></u><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Keep <i>Their</i> Emotions In Check</span></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihe5fryiEDDXb42DOZZ8gS9LDdOOOpt5TjED3fS4jIrrefnJPLShB_un8CD7uCk04Ng6IazUKWYeyCaNA32DHs9Y5U2prF_r0zHskHt1Y-YCoFggjF45s9raw7MwK4A8q17yoZIudkhVcr/s1600/Emotions.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihe5fryiEDDXb42DOZZ8gS9LDdOOOpt5TjED3fS4jIrrefnJPLShB_un8CD7uCk04Ng6IazUKWYeyCaNA32DHs9Y5U2prF_r0zHskHt1Y-YCoFggjF45s9raw7MwK4A8q17yoZIudkhVcr/s1600/Emotions.gif" height="239" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">When people are argumentative and raising their voices, what they are really saying is, "I want you to hear me, I'm angry." So acknowledge that. "You sound like you are really upset." Slow down and wait to articulate your point of view. Imagine a child's teeter-totter at an angle: When emotions are high rationality is low. Before you can gain cooperation, you have to lower emotions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*<i>YouTime Practical Applications*</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">At the beginning of arguments to establish acceptance, to normalize somebody's feelings, when you absolutely need people to hear your valid points, and definitely use this you are considered "a bad listener".</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Be a Good Listener</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take the time to understand the other person's point of view and you're much more likely to be successful in getting what you want. Be open physically too: Face the person, make good eye contact, be attentive and smile - it's one of the most powerful influencing tools we know.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">*YouTime Practical Applications*</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Use when speaking with a female (the love listeners) and effective during communicating sensitive topics.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Step 5:</span></u><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Start Small</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you treat an argument like a zero-sum game, it prevents you from taking a more appropriate intermediate step, which is, let's find some common areas. Tackle the issue that has the best chance for compromise. Lock that one down, then move on to the more difficult ones, knowing they may not be solvable. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">*YouTime Practical Application*</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When arguing with "bigger concept" type people, when compromise is what you are looking for, and when the issue you are dealing with is a longer term "process" problem. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Give to Receive</span></b></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBJh8yBIw87sVsMgCTdZ9EGSy4vpXq_Z1chYqTxlRLkiM9l5hQxI2_RWQZEFLHdVQzv5iFuKTokTOxGMUsANsXL0CIp-q72Vx4e-7e-SF2LxVVPvcxpOUSIA1sdWqqwShr57LKijMcMV5/s1600/Gap+Give+and+Get+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBJh8yBIw87sVsMgCTdZ9EGSy4vpXq_Z1chYqTxlRLkiM9l5hQxI2_RWQZEFLHdVQzv5iFuKTokTOxGMUsANsXL0CIp-q72Vx4e-7e-SF2LxVVPvcxpOUSIA1sdWqqwShr57LKijMcMV5/s1600/Gap+Give+and+Get+Logo.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">If you demonstrate a willingness to be open and flexible - that you're willing to meet halfway, that there are aspects of your position you might modify - it puts a burden on them. It's like saying, "It's your turn to show that you, too, can be sensible." Most reasonable, intelligent people will say, "OK, this person has stepped to on the a limb, they're are willing to work with me. Now I have to show something."</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">*YouTime Practical Application*</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Use when dealing with reasonable people, somebody that is rigid may not take well to this method. Use if you are communicating to somebody that believes you are a rigid person. Always give to receive, the law of reciprocity is on your side. </span><br />
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<i>*This article was adapted and sourced from Men's Journal, April 2014. The article was written by Maria Fontoura.</i><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-13056775501028564422014-04-15T12:30:00.000-04:002014-04-15T12:48:04.269-04:00How to Discover Beliefs You Are Certain About<div class="im" style="background-color: white;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Everybody has been marginalized in their lifetime in some way. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many involve all encompassing things such as religion, sexual orientation, and race, while others for less overt things like the way you dress, whether you like a particular sports team, what car you drive, or what job you work. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYE9Kqu8VDN4wMjRIPuPKHc2KbLfmSlNcDMmVWA-KBFpMxzRLIll3CjYEa_U2qWKgisNPKZaB_Sdo84illO5JawD2TjeN4eiltNHJLGoCjAYYcq7lGVbAszZkZQ_BD9epfdCmtrIxF_JDP/s1600/ingroup+outgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><img alt="Psychology, Counseling, Mentoring, Coaching" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYE9Kqu8VDN4wMjRIPuPKHc2KbLfmSlNcDMmVWA-KBFpMxzRLIll3CjYEa_U2qWKgisNPKZaB_Sdo84illO5JawD2TjeN4eiltNHJLGoCjAYYcq7lGVbAszZkZQ_BD9epfdCmtrIxF_JDP/s1600/ingroup+outgroup.jpg" title="In-group Out-group" /></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">What about the way you eat? Or even how compassionate you are? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">People around the world have been marginalized for years for the very simple reason of <i>not fitting into the mainstream "in-group". </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This blog interview illuminates and explores how an individual's beliefs can change through their own life experience and how a little resistance from main-stream culture won't stand in their way.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_HaIIbdxv-bv_k-_eShh8sPMVUG4QAvKUgK9qI7SvlMFtIDJHFTiSy7RtUwGXauALKOQrIgpm5Co0ud6IxI7mEDPLY9mbas7MDnRATV5ceFLZwoVdRtUMC7MR4JpQEiKYAGxy8AWwozg/s1600/Steven+Todd+Smith+Spartan+Race.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Spartan Race, Running, Vegan, Reiki" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_HaIIbdxv-bv_k-_eShh8sPMVUG4QAvKUgK9qI7SvlMFtIDJHFTiSy7RtUwGXauALKOQrIgpm5Co0ud6IxI7mEDPLY9mbas7MDnRATV5ceFLZwoVdRtUMC7MR4JpQEiKYAGxy8AWwozg/s1600/Steven+Todd+Smith+Spartan+Race.png" title="Steven Todd Smith" /></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Steven Todd Smith is a Reiki Master Teacher and owner/creator of Reiki For Creative Minds. Also: a Life Nutrition Coach, Arbonne Independent Consultant, and Community Manager for Forks Over Knives. </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>There are a lot of "standard" questions to ask a vegan, "where do you get your protein?, "do you only eat salad?", or "how do you not eat bacon?". What is the oddest question you have been asked?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: garamond, serif; font-size: large;">Because veganism is still not mainstream, even in large cities in 2014, there's a handful of "interesting" questions that get asked here and there, mainly due to lack of information or misinformation. The oddest question I've been asked was "So can you still eat chicken?" A couple others: "Why do you care about animals more than humans?", "But doesn't that carrot you're eating feel pain?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I know that the number is astronomically </i></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>growing, </i></span><i style="color: blue; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">but what percentage of people </i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i style="color: blue;">are </i><i style="color: blue;">actually </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i style="color: blue;">vegan </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i style="color: blue;">or </i></span><i style="color: blue; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">completely plant based?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;">Based on a recent Vegetarian Resource Group-commissioned Harris Interactive study, approximately 5% of the US population (</span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">≈</span><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;">16 million) is vegetarian and about half of that number is vegan. That </span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">≈7.5-8</span><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"> million has doubled since 2009. Even cooler is that 33% of Americans identify with eating vegan/vegetarian more often, though they are not vegan or vegetarian, according to the study. That's 100+ million people eating plant-based on a more regular basis! Just thinking about the sweeping positive benefits in global health plus the number of animals being killed dropping brings me much joy PLUS knowing that, even though we've already done a good amount of damage to the planet re: factory farming's deleterious effect on the environment, the steps we're making to correct, to heal the planet will kick in sooner than later. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><i>Being such a small group with a majority </i></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><i>of people not sharing what you</i></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><i> believe in, </i></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;">how </i></span><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;">do you </i></span><i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">continuously maintain your beliefs?</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How did/has any minority group continue maintaining their beliefs? Sure, there's a struggle, a greater wall of opposition to come up against. The Civil Rights movement, Women's Rights movement, Gay Rights movement all believe(d) in the same thing - equality, compassion, justice, love. Same with veganism. These tenets, these beliefs are larger than life, no matter how small the overall population sharing them is. They guide me forward, giving them the amazing opportunity to share and spread them, to educate and enlighten. Once you connect to unconditional equality, justice, compassion, and love for all beings - human animals and non-human animals (obviously still in the context that non-human animals are not humans, and vice versa) - and truly believe in them, it's impossible to go against that. And, on the surface level, I get to eat delicious food that cruelty-free and have fun with a community, that may be small overall but is locally very large!, that shares the same ideals. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Do you believe there are broader concepts and </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif; font-size: large;"><i>values that could be shared amongst everybody?</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuIbyCx2L6isi6dbwkN9VFcxVnjhcKEHoi3WapFP8OxeP4ItEem0db7M6Irbk1mKvBEVALiiYBeRrtU8Cq5e-4h9e-cG-n-BRJV-wm1YmMHLPh0udYl87r-xhQCpvytUlhdYNk47GAZ-2y/s1600/cu-core-values.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #222222; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="responsibility, awareness, kindness, alignment" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuIbyCx2L6isi6dbwkN9VFcxVnjhcKEHoi3WapFP8OxeP4ItEem0db7M6Irbk1mKvBEVALiiYBeRrtU8Cq5e-4h9e-cG-n-BRJV-wm1YmMHLPh0udYl87r-xhQCpvytUlhdYNk47GAZ-2y/s1600/cu-core-values.gif" height="161" title="values, integrity, commitment, community, caring" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;">Yes, and it's definitely worth repeating. Equality, justice, compassion, love. Also, kindness, awareness, sustainability, responsibility, living in alignment. All of these without conditions or bounds. When it comes to religion, faith, spirituality, it all comes back to love, no matter how many different twists and turns each individual one may take. And I'm not necessarily talking what's stereotyped as "hippy-dippy kind of love," (although, what's wrong with that? Nothing.): I'm talking about loving your fellow Earthlings with whom you share this planet. What gives any one of us the right to confine, abuse, torture, or kill another being, whether it's a dog, a cow, a person, a chicken, an elephant, a bear, a fish? I think love is a much stronger guide and force than hatred, than the need/want for power or greed. There are so many broader concepts and values that are already shared amongst a large majority of people in the world; the important transition/awakening happens when we realize we can extend those concepts and values to ALL living beings. Then, we'll find ourselves truly living in alignment.</span><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Many people find safety and security in having a firm set of beliefs. Do you find it easier to simply "live life" when you have a set of </span></i><i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">beliefs that direct </span></i><i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">your </span></i><i style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">thoughts and behaviors?</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I subscribe to a "strong-walled amoeba" approach. Having a set of guides/beliefs lead the way and protect me, something I can strongly and confidently connect to, while maintaining an open flexibility/receptivity to new ideas or beliefs that I may pick up and/or adopt along my life journey. I think living life in a black or white, immobile, immovable, steel box of beliefs will only prevent you from living fully, from connecting with other people and ideas on an understanding level of some sort. So, the openness and understanding from others that comes along with a solid faith allows for conversation and self-guidance. There are many benefits one will receive from living life with firm set of beliefs though, as much strength, character, individuality can be derived from them. Floating around with no foundation can be both scary and demoralizing. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif; font-size: large;"><i>You haven't been vegan/plant-based your entire life. How hard was it to realize that your previous personal beliefs and values were in a sense "not the right ones" and how do you go about changing your beliefs?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;">Great question. As I've deepened my spiritual connection and practice and studied more what our purpose, as humans, is here on Earth during our lives, I begin to lean more toward the concept that our beliefs - we'll say specifically of </span><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;">equality, compassion, justice, love - are always there; we just aren't fully conscious and awakened to them yet. Sure, knowing what I know now, I wish I had been living vegan my whole life. But then my life wouldn't be mine. The journey is just as important as the outcome, because it lays the foundation for the path you end up taking. The foundation - knowing your "Why?" - needs to be strong, have purpose, or any changed beliefs will easily revert back to old habits, patterns, actions, beliefs.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN63899sAJoubHBEHSAZvRkGtjT-rhvC4hEVReU9K9a5hTLed2qglJNmq9bGTEJJSvLeT9FKRtUk0aGXzldSTMaWRwEwjaOyzIKl19W5-CBukQvNlaW5N2yVddPDinDBp3EcW7aKHLpBN5/s1600/Growth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="openness " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN63899sAJoubHBEHSAZvRkGtjT-rhvC4hEVReU9K9a5hTLed2qglJNmq9bGTEJJSvLeT9FKRtUk0aGXzldSTMaWRwEwjaOyzIKl19W5-CBukQvNlaW5N2yVddPDinDBp3EcW7aKHLpBN5/s1600/Growth.jpg" title="growth, support" /></span></a><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">While I had initial resistance because the new beliefs challenged my old ones, I entered with just the slightest openness and understanding, as mentioned above. That gave me the space to explore, learn, and experience. I had/sought support, dove into many different resources, and began to realize that veganism provided me with everything I actually was in alignment with in life. It was less of being wrong and then being right; it became my next powerful platform of growth. The difficulty came in the unknown part of the change: what will I eat?, how will I interact with others?, etc. Just like any change though - even from crawling as babies to learning/deciding to walk (not wrong to right, just the next step in personal growth) - the answers, regardless of the stumbles along the way, eventually came.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: garamond, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Steve, for those people out there now that question their own beliefs, what would you share to help them reach the same level of certainty you have that your beliefs are definitely the right ones for you?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It's as easy as asking yourself: "Is this action I'm taking in</span></div>
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alignment with my greatest/deepest values in life?" For me, I realized contributing to an industry that promotes confinement, abuse, and killing was not in alignment with my values. I do not support confinement, abuse, and killing. Once I learned and realized I could take care of my own health, my own fulfillment, and help other beings on this planet, it became a simple decision. Sure, the journey between the question, the exploration, and the decision may be trickier and take a while (or maybe not...), but the feeling of consciously being in alignment is one of the greatest feelings you'll experience. </div>
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<span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, truly ask yourself. Explore. Figure out if you're serving both yourself and others with your beliefs; if not yourself, then it's time to change. If not others, then it's time to change. You can achieve both. We all can achieve both. Let go of the past (as the past is already past), tap into your present, your right now, and decide if what you are doing creates a better today AND future all around. You don't have to know all the specifics; there's a very good chance if the decision is in favor of equality, compassion, justice, and love, you're heading in the optimal direction.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmjc7avdHhdyhPc6psa0QISN-CtaUpwFe6TEtt3HkCheGvNAqUmRxTaWY1-IZAQj16vzp3ldewTERQgtLVAD9scFXZM3n5i0l2Meplh_0B2oLXtVTvZ6hhx5Dsq-kJ0oNoZeGUiULk64B/s1600/Steven+Todd+Smith+Farm+Sanctuary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmjc7avdHhdyhPc6psa0QISN-CtaUpwFe6TEtt3HkCheGvNAqUmRxTaWY1-IZAQj16vzp3ldewTERQgtLVAD9scFXZM3n5i0l2Meplh_0B2oLXtVTvZ6hhx5Dsq-kJ0oNoZeGUiULk64B/s1600/Steven+Todd+Smith+Farm+Sanctuary.jpg" height="200" width="109" /></span></a><span style="font-family: garamond, serif;"><b>Steven Todd Smith is a Reiki Master Teacher and owner/creator of Reiki For Creative Minds. Also: a Life Nutrition Coach, Arbonne Independent Consultant, and Community Manager for Forks Over Knives. His passion for health, fitness, spirituality, and compassion run deep, as he's been vegan for four and a half years and maintains an active yoga, gym, meditation, and running practice. A lover of all fun & games, especially board games, poker, and sports of almost any kind, Steven approaches life with a serious level of playfulness, always looking to infuse laughter and smiles into any situation. Has a BFA from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts in Acting, Plant-Based Nutrition Certification from Cornell, and is a Certified Holistic Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. You can find out more about Reiki and Steve at<span style="color: #222222;"> </span><a href="http://www.reikiforcreativeminds.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.reikiforcreativeminds.com</a><span style="color: #222222;">.</span></b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0Boston, MA 02113, USA42.3654231 -71.05497679999996342.3536906 -71.075146799999956 42.3771556 -71.03480679999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-13462912783788302102014-03-31T15:47:00.000-04:002014-03-31T16:19:43.597-04:00Taken at Night, More Alive Then Ever.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My career allows me to work with some amazing people that have been through some truly unique experiences. This is just one of the many. </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Simon, was struggling with many of the harsh realities life threw directly at him. His journey to understanding himself and developing a spot in the world is a different one then that of a typical teenager. In the wilderness is where he began to heal, rehabilitate and become a truly remarkable person. </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had the chance to ask Simon some candid questions about his experience:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(the name of the client is being protected for confidentiality purposes). </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Most people aren't familiar with "Wilderness Therapy".</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Can you describe what it is in your own words?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0px;">There are a wide variety of programs that fall under the category of “Wilderness Therapy”. However, there are a few primary characteristics that you can pretty much find universally throughout the programs. Essentially wilderness therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention, in which the patients live in and hike around the wilderness. The length of the patient’s stay varies greatly (I’ve heard of intensive programs reaching up to six months) but the average tends to be around 6-12 weeks. The aim of these programs is to allow the patient some time for introspection by withdrawing them from whatever unhealthy living situation they were in, and putting them in a therapeutic, isolated environment supposedly conducive to objective perspective. Again, there are many factors specific to each individual program, but these are the basic concepts I associate with “Wilderness Therapy”.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;">What were some of the hardest and scariest things you experienced during the process?</b></span></span></div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along with the differences of programs, the details regarding the patient’s entry into wilderness can also vary greatly. Some parents choose to tell their kids beforehand, or give them an option to choose between different programs-but many of them hire transporters to escort them. Since I was, and a majority of the other kids were “transported”, I can say that this is definitely one of the tougher parts of the process. Being in the heat of an unhealthy lifestyle and being plucked from my bedroom in the middle of the night by two hired men was traumatic to say the least. I think this is one of the times where kids are most likely to make impulsive decisions and, though it may be necessary for some, can start the process of “rehabilitation” on a dangerous note. The next hardest thing afterword is adjusting to the program and looking forward. Many kids (myself included) were under the impression that the process takes only a few weeks, and that their parents would bring them home directly after. The wilderness therapists do very little to clear up those misconceptions and I was lied to several times in an effort to maintain my emotional stability. Though it is up to personal opinion on whether or not that is reasonable, I think this proves to be the overarching difficulty in the wilderness process. The various stages of denial about the length of your wilderness stay and how everyone <i>insists </i>they aren’t going to aftercare can be devastating once those illusions are shattered. Of course, many kids eventually accept that it was perhaps necessary to have this revealed to them gradually, but there are also those who hold strong grudges against their parents and the therapeutic programs for the lies told in the beginning.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><b>What were your initial feelings when you arrived at wilderness?</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0px;">My initial feelings when I arrived at my wilderness program are hard to categorize into single words. I suppose I could say it was overwhelming disbelief, and confusion, and sometimes regret. But infused in each one of those emotions was always anger, and that wasn’t relieved until far later in the process. Arriving at my base camp was shocking, and I hadn’t known it was an outdoor wilderness therapy until the moment I was dropped off on the mountain. When I met the other kids I felt comforted to see that others had adjusted, but I felt like an outcast, and I felt dreadfully alone. I immediately thought that it was a mistake. My Mom had checked off the wrong program from the list and that if she knew where I was, would not hesitate to withdraw me. This steadfast, impassioned denial is a phenomenon that appeared to occur in almost every kid I met, and can last several weeks into the program before it is accepted. The limited communication allowed between me and my Mom was a major contributor to this false hope, but had I not had that hope to hold on to, it may have been unbearable. The beginning of the process was undeniably tough, and though it was necessary, was a hazy and unstable time for me. </span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;">At what point did you realize "I understand now" and felt as though you knew what needed to change?</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0px;">I can say with confidence that there was no single moment where I felt as though I had “all of a sudden” understood. Throughout the year long process my emotional state changed rapidly and the introspection resembled more closely a series of bargaining than sudden deliberate epiphanies. As the time in my program wore on the pain I was feeling was changing, and it was becoming subtle, but it still hurt just as much. As these changes occurred, I naturally adapted and was thus making unconscious internal changes and broadening my perspective. After I felt that I had matured, I was still only halfway through my aftercare program. I began to feel anxious and antsy and thought I was ready to go home. At this point, it still had not dawned on me that I had to make external changes as well as internal ones.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;">It was around this time that I began to realize this process wasn’t all about me. Even though</span><i style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;"> I</i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;"> was the one who was in Utah, I understood that it was my fault, that I owed it to my mom.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;">It’s too easy to feel like you’re the only victim out there.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;">Somehow all the pain and injustice I’d caused my mom had, in a sense, slipped my mind. I began to think about the things I had to change for her benefit, even though it meant sacrifice, and that seems to be the most tangible checkpoint of understanding I’d had.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif; text-indent: 0px;">For city folks, like me, </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif; letter-spacing: 0px;">what were some of the more unique experiences being in the wilderness?</span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;">Looking back, I wish I could have enjoyed the actual “wilderness” part more than I did. Because I was in such an overwhelming mind state, it was often hard to separate myself from inside my head. Something they constantly try to teach out there is how to live in the moment. Of course, I had and still have many excuses for why I couldn’t do that, but the times that I was able to were certainly the most peaceful.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;">Something that was shocking to me was how easily everyone adapted to the actual “wilderness” aspect. Within a week I could identify all fifty of the bags containing strange dried food, I could manage the ten-mile days with the forty-pound pack, and my made up knots were actually holding the shelter up. The lifestyle seemed alien on my first day, and everyday afterword, felt more and more like home.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-indent: 36px;">My program was in Utah, and unlike most other wilderness programs, we traveled all around the state. I saw a very wide range of untouched nature, and the constant immersion in it gave me an appreciation I hadn’t had before. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Like most unique experiences, I’ve romanticized my time in the woods, and though in reality I was miserable and counting the days, I’m able now to remember some of the happiness and pure wholesomeness I felt there.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;"><b>Change is difficult for a lot of people. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;"><b>If you could offer some advice to help others out, based off of your experience, what would it be?</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The best advice I can offer is to broaden your perspective. I think that often one of the reasons kids get sent away is because of severe egocentrism and lack of empathy. I always knew how angry</span><i style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> I </i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">was feeling, but it wasn’t until I understood the anger I’d caused my mom, that I was really able to change. Though there are other factors, I felt like every kid I met was suffering from relationship issues with their parents. In the heat of this process it’s hard to conceptualize the reality of the situation, but the fact is that your parents sent you away in hopes of you getting better. I think that the details of the situation can often overshadow the basic injustice both parents and kids feel, and that if the issues were stripped down, kids and parents could relate on the injustice and learn to empathize.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0px;">Another aspect of change I observed was the widespread misconception that changing meant losing. So many kids are filled with a stubborn sense of pride and are so concerned with “giving in”. I understand that certain situations may require an unmoving and passionate stance, though many times it’s an excuse to avoid feeling weak. Throughout the process I felt that I had two options: succumb to my mothers will or refuse to change. The reality isn’t nearly so black and white. At some point I realized that my mom and I had a similar goal (me achieving happiness) and that there were ways we could reach it together. The sacrifices I eventually resolved to make gained me my mom’s support, and from there we began to make changes together without the dissolution of my pride.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;">Now that you have been home from your</b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;"> </b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;">wilderness </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;">program</b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;"> for sometime, </b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;">what has changed</b></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif; letter-spacing: 0px;"> and how do you maintain what you learned out there?</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLrgQ-JeH3QjMyMisJZljYkoQIG7mDuszsp0UYPrhxNwWStebKyZ5awvHAoVxRVqo_Auw0vMAfsPs0qDJ2TZxmBgYT4NlvN6rUBmhux7D6MpI_o6llZyXWcI5o8tgHTCDYmLKYtFGrH-7/s1600/aspiro-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLrgQ-JeH3QjMyMisJZljYkoQIG7mDuszsp0UYPrhxNwWStebKyZ5awvHAoVxRVqo_Auw0vMAfsPs0qDJ2TZxmBgYT4NlvN6rUBmhux7D6MpI_o6llZyXWcI5o8tgHTCDYmLKYtFGrH-7/s1600/aspiro-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Every kid has the idea built up in his or her mind of what it’s going to be like at home. For me personally, it was all I thought about, a comfort to remind me of the light at the end of the tunnel. The reality of the situation is that coming home is not like the fantasy you’ve it made out to be. I think a majority of kids, myself included, thought that being home would mean an undying, sustaining happiness. Problems and insecurities that may have arose in or before programs will follow you back home and demand to be confronted.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">That being said, it’s not always easy to figure out how to adjust. One of the most impactful changes I experienced was having a lifestyle and small community of people to relate to, and going home to everyone who knew very little about the past year of my life.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The first few months at home felt very isolated for me, and I was having a hard time finding the right place for myself.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Many months down the line, things have changed quite a bit. After some time the pieces began to fall in to place and I melted back in to the natural cycle here. I learned enough about adjusting to new situations, and sacrificing, and started developing a code that would lead me to a healthy life. However, despite my comfort here, my memories of wilderness and after care are still very present in my daily life. I like to think back on them as something to hold on to, a very personal memoir that contributed largely to where I am now. I suppose it is up to everyone’s own interpretation to determine what role those memories might play, but I think its healthy to confront and confide in those past experiences, and to access them when needed.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: garamond, serif;"><b>If you could share 3 values you learned through your wilderness experience, what would they be?</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The list of values taught during wilderness would be far too extensive if I were to thoroughly answer this question. Though, there are a few very important ones that came to mind first. Before I state these three, I want to make the distinction that I learned the core parts of these values </span><i style="letter-spacing: 0px;">not</i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> from the programs themselves, but from the experience as a whole.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHXl3LFi2umuHY507YNNwlTm-rbfc7_5wpE7P6qz5UbgLRbSwtyRwdfhG3pAcqbi0EBTCsnhsaxJB-TsqFTrt0_Ux7g5ZIUN6idsVbkyppgI2Gq_ONwAxjI_S8ozgTvZksAc4N3qIss8l/s1600/wilderness-programs-in-utah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHXl3LFi2umuHY507YNNwlTm-rbfc7_5wpE7P6qz5UbgLRbSwtyRwdfhG3pAcqbi0EBTCsnhsaxJB-TsqFTrt0_Ux7g5ZIUN6idsVbkyppgI2Gq_ONwAxjI_S8ozgTvZksAc4N3qIss8l/s1600/wilderness-programs-in-utah.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><u>The first value I’d like to point out is perspective.</u> If you take the time to examine the wilderness culture, staff, and other kids, there’s a world of knowledge to be gained. I must say that merely being in the presence of that community exposed me to a variety of different lifestyles and personalities that I had not encountered. Since wilderness, I’ve been able to remember the world through the eyes of the people I met, and it’s always a refreshing outlook.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0px;"><u>The second value I learned was adaptability.</u> As I explained in some of the previous questions, the entry in to wilderness is shocking and fast-paced. There are changes you are forced to face immediately, whether or not you have previous outdoors experience. I think that this shift prompted me to try and understand some of the changes I’d face in the future (for instance, the transition back home) and has prepared me to face dramatic change from a more realistic and manageable approach. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0px;"><u>The final value I’d like to bring forth is empathy.</u> Perhaps the hardest, and most important lesson I learned was how to differentiate what I was feeling from my mom’s intentions. Unlike perspective, this wasn’t the ability to see from my mom’s point of view, rather, to try and feel what she was feeling and understand that. I think that this value is imperative to success at home, but is often tossed aside by kids’ sense of pride.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-63035015757953427352014-02-25T17:24:00.000-05:002014-02-25T17:24:39.762-05:00Oh Hey Happiness, It's Been A Long-Time.<span style="font-size: large;">Let's talk happiness for a second. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Imagine that the amazing Professor Ben-Shahar or Shawn Achor, both of Harvard University's Positive Psychology program asked <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_gS8C2LewbH8lvaTzYzOpT_oWsCBBVoVBelTHZUqBdfkHKYxEAFgj9SvDukT8z6h_iHXRNtjtmRH-D4SxA1bZboi8monhE-VOOgWBgombKIIAUcxiiLc4LQyQs8v3s-jBOI9VOt4XhOs/s1600/Tal+Ben+Shahar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_gS8C2LewbH8lvaTzYzOpT_oWsCBBVoVBelTHZUqBdfkHKYxEAFgj9SvDukT8z6h_iHXRNtjtmRH-D4SxA1bZboi8monhE-VOOgWBgombKIIAUcxiiLc4LQyQs8v3s-jBOI9VOt4XhOs/s200/Tal+Ben+Shahar.jpg" height="200" width="131" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tal Ben-Shahar</td></tr>
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YOU to give a lecture to a group of students on how to create happiness, make decisions that will increase your happiness levels, and ways to predict how happy you will be in any given circumstance.</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTNJq_wMgjZvDjVLnJcqKLx6kLM-v2x0_PFpkEKT-rMGSuJ2nrySgJihNLOPn6GU-Su15Q91Xa-hN-WiwbHmJBYWnTMte6lXM9ulvg9mDeHHvqqtSoVXYr9nl-StKP4jbmIwhqkSmP2OG/s1600/Shawn+Achor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTNJq_wMgjZvDjVLnJcqKLx6kLM-v2x0_PFpkEKT-rMGSuJ2nrySgJihNLOPn6GU-Su15Q91Xa-hN-WiwbHmJBYWnTMte6lXM9ulvg9mDeHHvqqtSoVXYr9nl-StKP4jbmIwhqkSmP2OG/s200/Shawn+Achor.jpg" height="200" width="146" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shawn Achor</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe right now you have already formulated a speech in your mind that will be flawlessly delivered to the eager crowd of young students. They will hear your words of wisdom and leave the lecture hall feeling confident, optimistic and ridiculously more happy! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large; text-align: center;"> Or maybe not...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Recent major personal life changes, decisions, and transitions have motived me to write this piece on happiness. I will be sure to update everybody on these big life changes in a blog very soon. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Answer this quick question:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What<i> </i>do you have in your life <i>right now</i> that creates happiness for you?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My answer to this question contained items such as:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Good relationships</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">An amazing fiancé</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A great apartment</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A wonderful doggie (love you Bipsy!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A great job</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Financial security</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A nice car</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Health insurance</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">And a few other things that came quickly to mind. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFE6QDt30ykjTTda6HfHUwnN7UxM8l_rKD6Qh7RC8bIanRnd-z4_0grFiTouDrJDucdV3oqt8fPVfThIyj2VcoERSw6553QQj4YdcPQeAZ5Zgx50WHMaTL6du7u_1rvBtD1tb3BnfzExKd/s1600/Spoiler+Alert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFE6QDt30ykjTTda6HfHUwnN7UxM8l_rKD6Qh7RC8bIanRnd-z4_0grFiTouDrJDucdV3oqt8fPVfThIyj2VcoERSw6553QQj4YdcPQeAZ5Zgx50WHMaTL6du7u_1rvBtD1tb3BnfzExKd/s320/Spoiler+Alert.jpg" height="97" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><i>Research shows that ONLY 10% of your long-term happiness is derived from these external factors.</i></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There secret to 90% of your long-term happiness?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Answer:</b> How your brain reacts to these external factors.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEXIFnC27AIwyMpfLecAFxAYBodlN0cPZZaaTbzhdIInusmhRcRccnEHXvvV_pd8TwahhcUqPquIQ1zC2yNAiY4cyO8Fq0hyphenhyphen-PiGR2XsE4PW50y8bpCKDVGmnF9N-yk0H4m6K9f4v7Iget/s1600/happiness+advantage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEXIFnC27AIwyMpfLecAFxAYBodlN0cPZZaaTbzhdIInusmhRcRccnEHXvvV_pd8TwahhcUqPquIQ1zC2yNAiY4cyO8Fq0hyphenhyphen-PiGR2XsE4PW50y8bpCKDVGmnF9N-yk0H4m6K9f4v7Iget/s400/happiness+advantage.jpg" height="228" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One of the biggest challenges with individuals and happiness today is that they believe they have <u><i>absolutely no control</i></u> over it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When people lack certainty in their life and have an abundance of uncertainty, they are at a high risk of experiencing unhealthy amounts of anxiety. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately debilitating levels of anxiety and happiness can not exist at the same time. This is why many therapists have clients create a "positive thought jar". Individuals can not maintain a negative and positive thought in their minds at the same time. When you experience yourself focusing on a negative thought, go to your positive thought jar, and pull out a positive affirmation to combat the negative thinking. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is funny and maybe you know this, most individuals feel they have little control over their own happiness yet 90% is derived through a process that happens within you!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNkrda9xX1OhTFqGWHFZfdIRAWqni4RcmvvQaOs9SkissBdw1m3EUtJgBE1g4WJJxdUPVtLBPITQC3lk3zpmM_Ylr2h04G5TMW7tL1rLg5nKFWoMLwx-psnmKwFJn6HON29CUdhaQj2mR/s1600/Are+You+Happy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNkrda9xX1OhTFqGWHFZfdIRAWqni4RcmvvQaOs9SkissBdw1m3EUtJgBE1g4WJJxdUPVtLBPITQC3lk3zpmM_Ylr2h04G5TMW7tL1rLg5nKFWoMLwx-psnmKwFJn6HON29CUdhaQj2mR/s640/Are+You+Happy.jpg" height="640" width="451" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stop predicting and start looking at the hard facts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Become a detective</b></u> by taking some of your biggest stressors, successes, decisions, and relationships and begin dissecting what makes them stressful, exciting, negative, successful and/or challenging for you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>This is worth the mental effort!</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take 10 minutes now to play detective and figure out how your brain reacts to the list you created above. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>YouTime's Summary:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is important understand that happiness does not come from the external factors around you, it is created within you by the way your brain reacts to those external factors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The amount of expensive, lavish, and desirable possessions you have in your life is meaningless UNTIL your brain creates meaning for these things. The way your brain creates meaning to those possessions and relationships is unique to you. Take the time to understand yourself, your inner drives, and how you choose to react to your environment. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">It is your brain.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">It is your happiness.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Take control.</span></b></div>
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For more information regarding research on happiness, please visit:<br />
<a href="http://goodthinkinc.com/research/">Http://goodthinkinc.com/research/</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-85401905228061747492014-02-25T17:23:00.000-05:002014-02-25T18:26:01.463-05:00The Cloud Around You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjNGzeJz0cBL_yC5W1a-4H-esg63y6aO6DbArkWTQuX4GkwKo1H4pBuIGwSjrOddtW0j2kLgHER2RtGNvZbwlyFedCwPiaIkngF1kpWbc_tzWCvz5_niIuQxW6WY3JrOAHYinYmPZVTVP/s1600/Pig-Pen.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjNGzeJz0cBL_yC5W1a-4H-esg63y6aO6DbArkWTQuX4GkwKo1H4pBuIGwSjrOddtW0j2kLgHER2RtGNvZbwlyFedCwPiaIkngF1kpWbc_tzWCvz5_niIuQxW6WY3JrOAHYinYmPZVTVP/s1600/Pig-Pen.gif" /></a></div>
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Let me introduce you to my old friend "Pig-Pen".</div>
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Pig-Pen is special in many ways but as you notice he carries a cloud of dirt around with him. No matter how hard he tries to clean himself the cloud of dirt almost magically reappears. </div>
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<i>It is almost as if this individual is a magnet for dirt.</i><br />
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Individuals, like you and me, have the magnificent ability to attract specific things into our lives. Sometimes we invite genuine new friendships and connections, while other times we attract chaotic relationships and environments to live in.<br />
You can almost say that humans have a magnetic field for these things. </div>
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I am going to walk you through a map I came up with. This map will help you see if you and Pig-Pen have a couple things in common.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What drives human behavior?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>EMOTIONS!</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When your happy, ecstatic, and empowered you can accomplish amazing things at incredible speeds. At the same time, when you are sad, irritated, and aggravated an individual can cause detriment very quickly to themselves and those in their environment. Emotions drive us. It is our fuel, empowering and disempowering. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What happens when you experience many emotions at one time?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Build-up, Suppression, and Inability to Properly Process</span></div>
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You all have most likely had a time in your life when you were experiencing multiple emotions at one time. Maybe at the time one emotion really stood out to you (anger, sadness...etc). Or possibly you felt confused and didn't know what to feel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What does this put you at risk for?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Emotional Clutter"</span></div>
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Emotional Clutter are the thoughts, beliefs, events, memories, experiences, and feedback that we have received or been through in the past that have not passed through us but have simply become stuck in our mind and body.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Who does this affect?</span></div>
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1. You</div>
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2. The individuals around you</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Is the "cloud" always visible to us?</span></div>
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No, not at all. Ever feel like you have "processed" or "gotten past" something and one day it creeps back into your life? Well, that is simply the "cloud" rearing its invisible ugly head. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What does it affect?</span></div>
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This cloud will filter and affect;</div>
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1. Everything we think about (our mental focus).</div>
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2. Everyone we meet (and the type of people we meet).</div>
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3. What we do (and what we don't do).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3 Things You Must Know About "Emotional Clutter"</span></div>
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1. Our "cloud" can combine with other people's clouds (others perceptions, agendas, world views).</div>
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2. Our "cloud" attracts more clutter (from friends, family, new connections, environments).</div>
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3. Our "cloud" leaves debris for others to pick up</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One Opposing Force to "Emotional Clutter"</span></div>
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<u>The Law of Attraction:</u></div>
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"Like attracts Like"</div>
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Events are attracted by you and the energy that you send out to the world, the environment you exist in, and the people around you. Individuals receive the positive or negative energy you send out. In order to oppose Pig-Pen's magnetic attraction for dirt, he must focus and manifest positive energy to getting clean. </div>
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In human talk, take some time to really think hard about what you want, your intentions behind it, and ask for it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDkvOoH3EZtymNZs8pIkqJdn43NXWV7HMrg6pqiYnRMhwdgRnK3g7vYIw1oTafo63GRpkCOb7ltMNANGoLFKnzqQiu22aN3FtRHzGkxd4N3nnBjIaJK_-vcxHM12PqrxsFAkLX77U9FuG/s1600/arrowdn.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2 More Techniques to Release the "Clutter"</span></div>
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1. Find one behavior to release</div>
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<i>What is one negative behavior you feel safe and secure releasing? Find one and focus on just that.</i></div>
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2. Focus on the process more then the outcome.</div>
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<i>It is simple for most to identify where they would like to be in life. Sometimes requiring a little bit of thought. What many people don't realize is that the process to get their is just as, if not more important than the outcome. </i></div>
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<i>"Emotional Clutter" is made up of individual strands. Focus on the individual strands to detangle the "clutter". Maintaining focus on the entire "cloud" will become overwhelming, stress inducing, and harmful to your success. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0kbqOmPbMxMkHm9gjo-zJVXri4YeVEaCF0imwz0FwYn7nJy-_Affprj5fNN1gbtZnw2tuGAfgeOK-qSDZgw6UawTGBByIqg6m7Y5P7G6c05oAM4ES2FatBx-LiIaNExeDOYYOjWuq2uH3/s1600/Clean+PigPen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0kbqOmPbMxMkHm9gjo-zJVXri4YeVEaCF0imwz0FwYn7nJy-_Affprj5fNN1gbtZnw2tuGAfgeOK-qSDZgw6UawTGBByIqg6m7Y5P7G6c05oAM4ES2FatBx-LiIaNExeDOYYOjWuq2uH3/s400/Clean+PigPen.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think we both can see the smile on Pig-Pen's cloudless face now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Resources for your "Emotional Clutter":</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/embracing-the-dark-side/200911/the-law-attraction-science-faith-and-the-cult-positive-thought-p">Psychology Today: "Law of Attraction"</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/making-your-team-work/201309/time-unpack-your-emotional-baggage"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Psychology Today: "Unpack Your Emotional Baggage"</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thanks for reading!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">All the Best,</span></div>
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<span name="SweetlyBroken" style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jonathan</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-6321424210582823922014-02-16T12:27:00.000-05:002014-02-25T17:20:14.301-05:00Living Life Through QuotesA good quote can motivate somebody to try something new, persist through tough times, or make necessary changes in their life. Quotes are so powerful because they embody an entire mindset, image, story, and lifestyle within one single sentence.<br />
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In my perspective, what makes a quote set itself apart is if it actually motivates you to take action with your life simply by the burning desire it ignited in you. Sounds powerful and somewhat unbelievable, huh? It happens and it will right now.<br />
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Following the quotes below will include a very small and incredibly manageable exercise to complete. Do this and consider you day a success.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">1.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20MJ_9Wkkp1m5VRAZCWqLtIcNP8bPHlAMLYjWJETBz9Z8ldvclZogLZpFuWaZ2gz-ZpL7lBmzbRNOhi_TB2fwUPoOMXT2GxRkUSxAKnyhjybMeRaPcn-MkBXRmveU4c4omWHkNHhDomnc/s1600/If+you+talk+about+it.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dreams, Motivation, Schedule, Goals" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20MJ_9Wkkp1m5VRAZCWqLtIcNP8bPHlAMLYjWJETBz9Z8ldvclZogLZpFuWaZ2gz-ZpL7lBmzbRNOhi_TB2fwUPoOMXT2GxRkUSxAKnyhjybMeRaPcn-MkBXRmveU4c4omWHkNHhDomnc/s1600/If+you+talk+about+it.png" height="320" title="Anthony Robbins Dreams" width="292" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Exercise:</span></b> Since scheduling makes it real, lets schedule! Think about something that you enjoy doing, that is positive for you, or brings you great vibes and schedule it for the very near future. Set this in your calendar, with as many reminds as possible, and lets make this real!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">2. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKmt-UaP_FBxhGvdxk6rZ0r4YwpObcTFjqnMLd9r0DhsIJ-AglwX3q99vr-Qbpat1I1Vgx-NRAk2ZNcgTW33ICn4eOCRTfwfPTep8wAoEuSwiphyphenhyphenTD6X8Iq-ljPACLOQhWfmU3QhdKQ_Y/s1600/I+believe+life.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Consistent, Constant, Commitment, Dreams, Regret, Simplistic" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKmt-UaP_FBxhGvdxk6rZ0r4YwpObcTFjqnMLd9r0DhsIJ-AglwX3q99vr-Qbpat1I1Vgx-NRAk2ZNcgTW33ICn4eOCRTfwfPTep8wAoEuSwiphyphenhyphenTD6X8Iq-ljPACLOQhWfmU3QhdKQ_Y/s1600/I+believe+life.png" height="333" title="Anthony Robbins Consistent" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="color: red;">Exercise:</b> Keep it simple stupid. What we are constant and consistent with, as simple as it sounds, is what makes the real difference. Choose something right now, that is once again extremely manageable and positive (requires minimal time, minimal resources, and minimal excuses) and agree to do it every day for 30 days. Some people may choose taking one deep breath a day, drinking a glass of water in the morning, or saying hello to one stranger. </div>
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Whatever you choose, stay consistent and constant.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">3. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY60_dukc3L4lg3o7fPnggBoP_ttLX8cLOiIXrORLTYN5UpaYpm0QmLxNFwpZJvb4xhy-5p3J9QrcHwod2qZN515TEQYs7L7l3zhl3DCSPR0y_WHybQ2PZFlRTbAUYWL9Yd7_dc23mL98R/s1600/Things+With+Love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Love" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY60_dukc3L4lg3o7fPnggBoP_ttLX8cLOiIXrORLTYN5UpaYpm0QmLxNFwpZJvb4xhy-5p3J9QrcHwod2qZN515TEQYs7L7l3zhl3DCSPR0y_WHybQ2PZFlRTbAUYWL9Yd7_dc23mL98R/s1600/Things+With+Love.jpg" height="320" title="Do all things with love" width="206" /></a></div>
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<b style="color: red;">Exercise: </b>For this exercise, I want you to do two things.</div>
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First, write down something you love doing.</div>
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Second, write down something you could do with more love. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">4. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdllSuDPOXTplw567vJXe2QbQJ8kOxY4DS-1_VQRWZe-wCLPQS_HcynrqEsm4Gken7DkRUuIWlIn_0R1OQT-MdyvQn3DBICewDAJPgoeOSqFOzrW0iMSrMxYd7Wmy1CCoKsmWyJcsp4nC1/s1600/Live+Creative+Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Being wrong, life, creativity" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdllSuDPOXTplw567vJXe2QbQJ8kOxY4DS-1_VQRWZe-wCLPQS_HcynrqEsm4Gken7DkRUuIWlIn_0R1OQT-MdyvQn3DBICewDAJPgoeOSqFOzrW0iMSrMxYd7Wmy1CCoKsmWyJcsp4nC1/s1600/Live+Creative+Life.jpg" height="320" title="Fear of Being Wrong" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="color: red;">Exercise: </b>Wrong? Never! For this exercise I want you to write down or state out loud something that you have been wrong about. After all, we all have been wrong at some point in our life. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">5. </span></b></div>
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<b style="color: red;">Exercise:</b> If you don't appreciate what life has offered you, you begin to take it for granted. Write down 5 things that you appreciate in your life (if you have more then 5 keep the list going!).</div>
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Congratulations! If you followed the exercises then you have had one successful day.</div>
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Take this message with you,</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: white;"><i>Live your life by continuing to grow through your actions, being consistent, appreciating everything, not fearing being wrong, and most of all, live your life with love.</i></b></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-10235186841419192762014-02-07T09:30:00.000-05:002014-02-25T17:23:36.329-05:00Examine What You TolerateOn Pinterest you can find nearly anything. From wedding ideas, workout routines, recipes, cute animal pictures, to quotes. If I had a specialty on Pinterest it would be finding unique, meaningful, and stimulating quotes to sit down and really think about (maybe even do something about). I know half of the population on social media believes, they are the quote gurus! I say, there can be many gurus.<br />
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I came across a quote a while back,<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkZdAS8pP-_YpS8bTWWRrD7P0bBU81vDDHFEQCoEWTKXWf5sTtNc7nFMNd8e7BnG-6RSUJD97PToi3zi8fdoypyFd-x3IE86Y5k8FuBucdnuREFd1vlV4xL82ryDYvq6ZVeDlJPfr0pMj/s1600/ExamineTolerate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkZdAS8pP-_YpS8bTWWRrD7P0bBU81vDDHFEQCoEWTKXWf5sTtNc7nFMNd8e7BnG-6RSUJD97PToi3zi8fdoypyFd-x3IE86Y5k8FuBucdnuREFd1vlV4xL82ryDYvq6ZVeDlJPfr0pMj/s1600/ExamineTolerate.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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After reading this I thought for a moment about myself and some of the things that I allow to "slide by" throughout my day and week. What really grabbed me though, as seen through the work I do with clients, is that people tolerate very toxic things in their lives. </div>
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"Examine what you tolerate". In other words, take a deeper look at what things you allow to exist, occur, and be done within your own life that you <b><i>have convinced yourself</i></b> are for your best interest. i</div>
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Individuals choose to <i>tolerate</i> a wide range of things in their lives that are believed to be for your benefit but are actually toxic to your life. </div>
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Major "tolerated" toxic events;</div>
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<li>Having friends that put you down</li>
<li>Being lied to frequently</li>
<li>Being in a relationship that is abusive (verbal, physical, sexually, and neglectful)</li>
<li>Negative treatment because "you are not good enough"</li>
<li>Bullying because "you deserve it"</li>
<li>Consistently giving up on going to the gym or your diet because it "won't make a difference"</li>
<li>Bad habits (tolerated by the individual with the habit and others in their environment)</li>
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People tolerate all types of things as result of low self-worth and image, fear of others reactions, fear of "not being good enough", fear of "the unknown and uncertainty", the perceived consequences of not tolerating the event, and conditioning to tolerate these events from prior relationships. </div>
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This month set-up an appointment with yourself for a real gut check. Ask yourself what types of things do you tolerate that may be limiting you and why do you tolerate them? </div>
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We all have our faults, imperfections, bad habits, and things to work on. Let's start by being your own detective and asking these four questions.</div>
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<li>What are the incredibly obvious things I tolerate in my life right now?</li>
<li>What are the tougher, more painful, and complicated pieces that you tolerate in your life? (true gut check)</li>
<li>What is the cost of continuing to tolerate these things?</li>
<li>What is the benefit of taking steps to stop tolerating these events?</li>
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When working on some of the events I have mentioned above you want to be under the supervision of a trained Mental Health Professional. If you feel as though this is the time make some of those changes use the link below. </div>
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Find a Therapist: <a href="http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/prof_search.php">Find a Therapist near you</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162104728529300873.post-41429817561703861702013-11-15T10:50:00.001-05:002014-02-25T17:24:09.135-05:00The Rich Kid Has Problems TooIf your child experiences poverty before the age of 5 research shows that there are serious negative outcomes that will most likely be coming their way. These negative affects could results in:<br />
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<li>Protracted Stress (long-term)</li>
<li>Behavioral Issues (conduct disorder, anger regulation issues, getting into fights...etc)</li>
<li>Social Problems (social anxiety, body image issues, giving into peer pressure, bullying...etc)</li>
<li>Emotional Problems (depression, anxiety...etc)</li>
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Does this mean that American's are forced to make more money in order to ensure that their child will grow up to be "normal". The short answer, NOPE. I am afraid to say ladies and gentlemen but, </div>
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<u><i>MONEY IS NOT THE ANSWER</i></u></blockquote>
<i>Before getting into this next section I would like to take a second to say that the facts, findings, research, and opinions expressed are not to minimize or criticize any individual's parenting. The following is used to serve as a platform for discussion and questioning on this very important topic. Parenting is an extremely arduous process and by no means has anybody perfected it. I applaud parents that try their best with what they are given and can ask for help when necessary. I hope these findings allow you to ask the important questions to help your family, friends family, and children. </i><br />
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Recent research is showing significant increases in the social, emotional, and behavioral disturbances of the children that come from affluent families. Kids that come from families that make $150,000+ (over 2x the national average), have parents in high-status careers, attend the most prestigious schools, and have well-educated parents are at risk now too.<br />
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Some of the findings of this research shows that kids coming from affluent families are at risk for:<br />
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<li>Substance abuse (high alcohol use, binge-drinking, marijuana use, and other hard drugs)</li>
<li>Delinquency from school </li>
<li>Wide-spread cheating</li>
<li>Stealing from parents or peers</li>
<li>Maladjustment in school and social environments</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu69kWOO-N1nMGZqsRiVQLhe7LUSdpLH76m2INq8217cOujNhbnMbIaYcZ6haFaN2VndxoRAWM1WIHgQdtMpqQww5JcmqWkMD_P9oL9Vz21PjscGSCRL-MHHWXIVLHEFlNhhxdFaRzD1oN/s1600/rich-kids-of-instagram-thumbnail.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu69kWOO-N1nMGZqsRiVQLhe7LUSdpLH76m2INq8217cOujNhbnMbIaYcZ6haFaN2VndxoRAWM1WIHgQdtMpqQww5JcmqWkMD_P9oL9Vz21PjscGSCRL-MHHWXIVLHEFlNhhxdFaRzD1oN/s400/rich-kids-of-instagram-thumbnail.jpg.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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A common misconception amongst affluent parents, and this is reinforced my many sources of media, is that money and education will prevent these events from happening or even solve them.</div>
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<i>"If facts alone were enough to change an individual's behavior long-term, then there would be no overeating, alcohol abuse, cigarette smoking, or drug use. </i><i>There needs to be more then just the facts."</i></div>
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<u><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">YOUR OPINION</span></b></u></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">WHAT IS CAUSING THIS?</span></b></div>
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I want your opinion.</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Share your thoughts below as to why children coming from affluent families may be experiencing more depression, anxiety, social problems, and substance abuse issues then before.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Some questions to think about:</b></span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Why is this happening to kids coming from affluent families?</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;">Why is the magic school year 7th grade for most of these issues to present themselves? </b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;">Are you experiencing these issues? If so, how has the experience affected your family and what words can you offer others?</b></li>
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In the next blog, I will share with you the findings of some on-going research that breaks down why this may be happening and how to fix it.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17332284689884701580noreply@blogger.com0