When do you strike?

The thought struck me.  It came out of nowhere.  "This guy had a huge impact on my life, I should write him a note."  I had a decision to make at that point ... Click "Compose New" and shoot the thought and sentiment his way.  Find some stationary and write it out then and there.  Or put it on a to do list. I clicked "Compose New"  I wrote a two line email.  I told him that I appreciated his encouragement, support and inspiration.  He really played a key role in a wide range of my life. … [Read more...]

Are you going broke?

I was talking with friend last night.  She talked about how it's hard to keep priorities this time of year (Christmas time).   She's busy going to 47 Christmas parties, buying gifts, spending time with friends, and somewhere in there ... she works.   We talked about weight gain, staying on budget, and sticking to goals.  They're all related. Have you gained 5, 10, 15 lbs lately?  Check your finances.  When your weight goes up, you're probably spending more money.  Check your work, too.  If … [Read more...]

What bubble will burst next?

Bubble's burst. We've seen the real estate bubble, the internet bubble, the energy bubble, and whatever other bubbles. They over inflated until, under the the value they promised was very different than the actual value provided.  Reality reared it's ugly head.  The bubbles burst under the pressure that came from reality weighing in. It's easy and cheap to produce credibility in social media world.  Testimonials, reviews, followers ... all can be bought.   Go on Fiverr.com. You'll find … [Read more...]

How much are you like a lab rat?

I had a theory 6-7 years ago. I still do. The theory is that we compulsively text message, instant message and Facebook (FB wasn't around at the time for adults)because they tap into our inner lab rat. These communication tools exploit our inner pleasure/reward system. With each ding, buzz or Like, we get a little burst of dopamine. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter released in response to things like cocaine, crack, sex, deep laughter, etc. Each response we received provides validation. … [Read more...]

Who do you relate to?

The word relationship is built on the root:  relate.  So a relationship is based up how we relate to others. When you build relationships do you relate to the other person or do you relate to yourself while talking to another person? You can't meet someone where they are when you don't relate to them for who they are.   How do expect to sell them, support them, lead them or love them when you aren't even talking to them? Stop talking to yourself.   Build a relationship instead.  It will … [Read more...]

Like a moth to a flame.

I rushed to the lamp to turn it off.  I had heard a zap.  I smelled something burn.  I looked around.  I saw smoke waft from my lamp.  It was a 6 foot tall torchiere (Think a tall skinny lamp).  The lamp had a halogen bulb.  It burned white hot.  I tilted it so I could see what happened.  There is was.  A charred moth.  I turned the lamp back on.  The moth finished burning.  The smell went away.  Once and a while, I'd hear the zap.  I'd look for the plume of smoke.  I'd smirk and shake my head. … [Read more...]