Steve Jobs and the 7 Rules of Success

http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/advisor/steve-jobs-and-the-7-rules-of-success.html

Very good read and great advice from arguably the greatest entrepreneur of all time!

Speak up and take back control!

The basic difference between being assertive and being aggressive is how our words and behaviors affect the rights and well being of others.
- Sharon Anthony Bower, author


Many people feel uncomfortable being assertive, which often leads others to take advantage of them. Do you ever feel like you shouldn't say something because you might hurt someone's feelings? Does your spouse shirk their responsibilities around the house and expect you to pick up the slack? While it is important to serve others often, being someone's lackey is unhealthy and it's up to you to break that cycle. Kindly address situations where you think someone is taking advantage of your meekness. Being aggressive is a negative quality that people respond to with hostility. Making your voice heard maturely and positively is a trait that will take you far and build respect among your peers. 

I am NOT a Millennial!!!!!

Check out this great article in the Kansas City Star!


Marketing Campaigns Now Tailored For Millennials


So I very much agree that marketing has evolved quintessentially especially with the advancement of sites like Facebook, Twitter, etc...But seriously, the "experts" need to realize that people born in the 80's should not be lumped with those born in the 90's.


We share different values, different life experiences, and we did not grow up online and with cell phones (these things came about and developed popularity when we were in high school/college). In fact, some of the most popular online fads were created by 80's babies (Mark Zuckerberg, born 1984).


And it seems to me that the Baby Boomers seem to judge us by the Millennial label, thinking that we are always texting, always tuned out to what is going on in the real world. While I know there are those my age that tend to over do it on the texting, Facebooking, etc, I also know the majority of us exercise logic and restraint. These things were introduced to us after we were kids. We know what it's like to live without and we know the importance of sometimes just doing things the old fashioned way.


We don't NEED to be connected to technology 24/7, even though we do realize the great advantages of being connected. We know how to go without, and we often get fed up with it at times and just turn it off! How do you think we have time to come up with all these new innovative ideas?


If anything 80's babies relate more to Generation X simply because a lot of us have siblings from that generation. Just a thought to ponder, but I think they need to come up with an entirely different generational name for 80's babies. Maybe Generation Innovation?

Enjoying the Marathon

You can't do anything about the length of your life, but you can do something about its width and depth. - Shira Tehrani

Life is like a marathon. We run and run, not knowing where (or how far) the finish line lies. We focus so intensely on prolonging the race but sometimes--despite our best efforts--the race is cut short. Too often we don't relish the path of and enjoy the details instead of just pounding the pavement of life. What personal boundaries can you expand to help you enjoy your life? Today meditate on the simple joys: a warm bath, reading a book to a sleepy toddler, or spending quality time with your family and friends. All of life contains bumps in the road such as losing your job or an unforeseen illness. But it is up to us to determine the quality of our lives. Remember, we don't always determine the distance, but we can determine the path.


(Spark People's Healthy Reflections)

Who is standing in your way?

Something we were withholding made us weak, until we found it was ourselves.
- Robert Frost


Imagine someone regularly tying small weights around your ankles as you try to climb a mountain. Doesn't sound fair, does it? But that's exactly what you can do to yourself, a little bit at a time, if you don't watch out. When you think of who and what is standing in the way of your dreams, it's easy to forget your own responsibility. Even the best of us can be guilty of unknowingly hurting our own progress. Procrastination, lateness, being disorganized, pessimism, not being honest with yourself, severe self-criticism, downplaying achievements, focusing only on weaknesses while ignoring strengths, keeping goals a secret, demanding perfection, giving up after a small setback--these are all ways you can make it tough to be (and do) your best. Smart systems, the right attitude, and a promise to keep going no matter what will make a world of difference. 

The power of having a dream and a vision

We've all worked with people who just show up to fill space. Uninspired and stuck going through the motions, they pick up a paycheck on Monday and wait for Friday. Some are just killing time until retirement. Maybe you even find yourself in this mindset. Not a very satisfying way to spend your days is it? Sounds like an easy life--except that in life, retirement can be permanent and unexpected. In your life, are you actively heading straight for your goals, or are you puttering around vaguely? Nothing is wrong with hard work; determination and elbow grease are what make the best dreams possible. But it's interesting that most work makes us look downward, while dreams lift our eyes to the sky. While you're keeping that nose to the grindstone, make sure you keep your head up to see where you're going.


(SparkPeople's Healthy Reflections)

The biggest obstacle to your momentum

Farmers rotate different crops on the same piece of land to give the soil a rest and let it replenish nutrients. How do you replenish? How much sleep did you get last night? Two-thirds of Americans get less than the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Sleep can set the tone for your actions for days and weeks to come, not to mention your mood and brain power. Even small amounts of lost sleep add up to a sleep debt that muddles your brain and fatigues the rest of you. The negative cycle created by sleep debt may be the No. 1 way people destroy their healthy lifestyle momentum. Regular amounts of good slumber set a sleeping/waking rhythm that energizes you in the daytime and relaxes you at night. The more your body gets into the rhythm of regular sleep, the more the rest of your life can find a similar, consistent rhythm. So hit the pillow and hit your stride.


(SparkPeople's Healthy Reflections)


Signup for SparkPeople.com FREE! This is really a great source of inspiration and motivation as well as a good way to track your results as you lose weight or even if you are just looking to maintain. Check it out!

What a Great Run!

So, it has been awhile since I gave the old "break out the running shoes, and let's get moving" speech. To tell the truth, the weather delayed me quite a bit from my original plans of hitting the pavement. But I've officially been back out running for a month now, and it feels great!

I had the best run last night, and it reminded me of why I enjoy it so much. I've never been much of a runner, in fact I used to despise the mere thought of having to run anything that involved more than a short sprint. I started running purely because I knew I needed to be more active with my workout. I tended to slight myself and not break much of a sweat. After getting into it, I really started to enjoy the little things. Getting outside, enjoying the nature around me, listening to all the outdoor sounds (and yes this includes the cars as they fly by); This is what I love about running!

I love getting to be in my own element where nothing else can bother me. I can think about things that are stressing me out and find a way to relax about those situations. I can also choose to think about nothing and just clear my mind of all the noise. It's wonderful to have this time to myself and yet still be around other things that are going on in the world.

I just hit the point last night where I'm picking up my speed and going to need to increase my running route so that I am still running the same minutes. I love when I can feel good about myself. I'm getting faster and that's a great accomplishment to celebrate.

So what do you do to get that "me" time? Whether it be a time that you set aside to go shopping or to just walk outside and clear your head, we all need that personal space and time to get away and appreciate ourselves. You should give it a try if you don't already...It feels great!

I'm leaving you with this Springtime treat: I love funny commercials and this one just makes me laugh every time!

The Confident New You

Okay, so I'm definitely no expert on being confident. Truth is, I have struggled with confidence all my life. While I have grown from the barely able to speak, shy little girl I was as a teenager and even more so as a youth, I still struggle with self confidence every day. I found this article the other day when I was doing a little soul searching.

17 Easy Confidence Builders

There are some really great tips in this list, but I'm going to pick a few that really jumped out at me.

#3: Make a decision and go with it.

What a great rule to live by. Too many people take so long to make a decision about something that they waste time they could be spending enjoying actually doing it. I'm guilty of this almost every day. I can't seem to make a decision, but I'm happy giving suggestions for other people to choose from. It always takes forever to decide on a place to eat if I'm with a friend who is also indecisive. This is something that I am going to consciously focus on in my daily life.

#10: Don't compare yourself to anyone else.

I can confidently say that most women probably struggle with this occasionally, if not every day for some. I've always given the excuse of it being human nature, but the truth is I'm just giving myself a free pass to lower my self esteem. It does me no good to pick out the best qualities of other people just to put myself down. Instead, I'm going to strive to use these comparisons as motivators. If I really like another woman's hair, maybe I will do something unique and different to change up my style. I'm going to use my inherent jealousy of the woman running by me on the sidewalk in her sports bra that exposes her well-chiseled 6-pack abs, and turn it into the motivation I need to get my 6-pack back on track. Stop comparing and start doing!


#18: Know what you want to accomplish.


Now, if you didn't notice, this one isn't on the list. This is my own confidence builder that I use every day. In order to believe in yourself, you first have to know what it is that you want to accomplish each and every day. I like to start my day out making a list in my head of the main things I want to complete. I do this while I'm getting ready for work, no need to try and squeeze it in and rush your day. I think about work and what project I want to complete, or pieces that need to be finalized before combining them into a finished product. I also think about what I need to get done after work. Do I need to stop by the store on my way home? Should I eat before or after my workout? Do I have dinner plans with a friend? If I know my schedule and what I want to accomplish, there is little left to shake me up and get me flustered. I find that being confident about what comes next in my day makes me more confident in myself.


What is your best confidence booster?

Time to Relax and Let Loose!

So, as of Friday I will no longer be able to claim the age of 25. I don't know why, but for some reason I'm not very welcoming of the number 26. With so much going on in my life right now (and not all of it being good) it stresses me out a little to be getting another year older. It only reminds me that I am nowhere close to where I would like to be in life. I have so many dreams, but I have so many things that I have to get straightened out before I can really accomplish these dreams. I just want to be able to live my life free of unnecessary stresses so that I can enjoy all the small successes in life.

Since I still have so much to accomplish before I can truly live my life the way I want to live, I have decided to take this weekend to let loose and have fun. Prepare yourself Manhattan because I'm coming back to town! I'm so excited just to relax and spend time with some friends that I haven't seen in quite a long time. I'm going to focus on the good things that are happening for me right now and let the bad wait until after the weekend is over.

So if you are going to be in The Little Apple this weekend maybe you will see me out and about! Happy Birthday to ME!!!!! :)

Have You Filed Your Taxes?

If you answered that question with a "Yes" then you are on the right track. I would recommend for those of you that have filed, and even if  you have already received your return, to take a good thorough look at your forms just to be sure there were no mistakes made or deductions missed. I myself don't know a lot about every deduction that is available, and an oversight can cost you.

In the past I have filed my taxes both myself and with the use of a tax preparer. I prefer to file myself online, it's fast, simple, and free! But some states do not offer online filing so it may be less hassle to do both your federal and state together to avoid confusion. I have to file in 2 states this year, so I will be going to a preparer so I make sure I don't miss out on any deductions.

One deduction you may not know about that several people actually can qualify for is the "Making Work Pay Credit". While not everyone can qualify, a significant amount of people actually do, but may not know about it. Check with your tax preparer to see if you qualify, or if you are doing your taxes yourself, check out the forms online. Schedule M is what you need to claim this credit.

Claiming the Making Work Pay Credit

And just a reminder: the last day for filing is only a little more than a month away. Get it done now, and don't be stressed in another month when it comes down to the wire. Normally I already have mine done by now, but certain factors have delayed me this year. My goal is to do it this week. I will report back next week to attest to whether or not I succeed in that goal.

There are many more credits and deductions that a lot of people don't know about. Do some research online. The government provides all the forms and information on qualifying, but some may be more difficult to find than others.

Also in the news this week: It's Tournament Time!!!!

The Men's Big 12 Tournament is at the Sprint Center this week. If you are in the KC area and want to see some great basketball come check it out! The Big 12 is strong this year and will represent well in the NCAA Tournament. Plus college hoops are just fun to watch!

2011 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Championship

Here's to a great March!

It may be a little early, but I'm going to say it...SPRING IS HERE!

While the weather seems to be toying with us a bit this week, I think it's officially safe to say that Spring has arrived. If you're like me, you have been longing for this moment since about October when the slightest bit of frost appeared on my car in the morning. And now it's finally here.

So I'm going all out! I've washed my car (twice!), packed away my gloves and sweaters, and dusted off the old running shoes. For me, Spring means being able to take half of my workout outside and enjoy the beautiful day. I love the smells of Spring: the fragrance of flowers and trees budding, the sweet scent of dew in the early morning, and even the calming aroma just before a thunderstorm or gentle rain shower. Most of all, I love that it gets me out of the apartment for a short while.

So here are some great ways to kick off your new workout schedule and put a little Spring in your step!

• If it's been awhile since you've taken to the open road. You may want to review some of the unspoken rules of running. This may be especially helpful if you have moved since your last running experience and are exploring new territory. I found this great article that covers the basics. Take a look to make sure you don't get on anyone's bad side. 

          Running Etiquette: The 10 unspoken rules of running

• I don't know about you, but I'm in desperate need of a new pair of running shoes. As much as I've grown attached to my good old Asics, they are just plain worn out! I'm not certain if I want to get a new pair of the same shoe I've been using, or try a new shoe all together. If you are thinking about upgrading or have never found a shoe that works for you, make sure you take your time. Choosing the right running shoe is very important and can make or break your run...literally. I used to work at a shoe store that specialized in finding the right shoe for your foot type and running style. There are several around, so make sure you search for a full-service running store (or shoe store with knowledgeable salespeople). If you're in the Kansas City area, check out Tradehome Shoes in the Independence Center Mall. If you are somewhere else, check this website to see if there is a Tradehome near you: http://www.tradehome.com/locations. Here are some tips to a successful (and stress free) shopping experience:
• Make sure you tell the sales associate exactly what you are looking for and how you will be using your shoes. Be careful not to get too hooked on one specific style or brand that you saw in an advertisement or heard about from a friend. Ads are supposed to make it look appealing, but it might not be the best choice for you. And while friendly recommendations are great, chances are what works great for your friend won't be the right shoe for you.
• If you don't know what foot type you are, that's okay. The salesperson can measure you and analyze your gait to find out what type of shoe you will need. In fact, even if you think you know your foot type and size, let them measure you anyway. Over time, your arches can fall and your feet can get bigger and smaller, so it's best to double check. Besides, this is their job! If you let a sale associate do their job, they are much more likely to find you what you need. It is not only annoying for the salesperson for you to cut them off every five seconds, but you don't allow yourself the opportunity to relax and enjoy the experience if you are trying to take control of everything. If you are at the proper store, everyone should know how to measure your feet and analyze your gait. But if by chance you get a newbie in training, ask for the manager. A manager or assistant manager must be in the store at all times, and they can take over and assist you in finding what you are looking for.

• Don't be afraid to give them a price limit, they will actually appreciate as much information as you can give them. Most shoe stores will have something just right for you if you are fully open with them about what it is you want. And if they don't have exactly what you are looking for, a good store can either order it in for you or tell you where you can find it.
• Be open to trying everything on. Finding a good running shoe is about comfort and performance, and while nobody wants to wear a shoe they don't like to look at, appearance is not the most important factor. Give everything a chance, even if you think it is hideous. You might just find the perfect shoe that you would've otherwise overlooked. And don't be surprised if it looks better on your foot than in the box!
• If you are a person who likes to browse a little before you go out shopping, Runner's World has just released it's Spring 2011 Running Shoe Guide. Get some great ideas and reviews from other runners, but remember don't get stuck on one particular shoe.

• If you haven't been sticking to your New Year's resolution of eating better, now's the time to start! Finding the best ways to fuel your body pre-workout and replenish your system after will help you get the most out of your run. Check out these tips to healthy eating for runners: The Healthy Runner's Diet. If this is not your cup of tea, I also have previously posted some great articles and links on healthy eating. Just as with running shoes, not every eating plan works for every person. Find the one that fits your lifestyle and your schedule.

• If you're really getting into this running thing you may want to check out these other articles from Runner's World. Learn the keys to Recover Better and Run Stronger. If you constantly deal with tight muscles, find out how you can benefit from Simple Yoga for Runners.

I am looking forward to kicking off this Spring with a bang, and I hope you are too. It's important to be prepared to accomplish whatever goals you have set for yourself this year. Take the right steps, and you will be running like a pro before I can say SUMMER!

5 Questions for a Better You

So I was checking out the latest headlines, most of which have to do with Super Bowl XLV in some way. (Shout out to the Packers and #87 former K-Stater Jordy Nelson: First touchdown of the game and game leader for receiving yards playing behind 3 other awesome receivers. WAY TO GO!) Anyway, I stumbled across an article that normally I wouldn't have clicked on. And who knows why, but I was intrigued.

5 questions that tell you if it’s meant to be

So after reading the article, I was pretty convinced that these questions, while they may or may not help your romantic life, are good questions to ask yourself. It seems they could be used to evaluate your accomplishments, set new goals, and overall give you some much needed motivation. And who couldn't use a little of that? I know I could, so here goes:

Question #1: “If your company gave one-year paid sabbaticals, what would you do for that year?”

I've always dreamed of traveling to foreign countries, if for nothing else, just to broaden my horizons a bit. I'm definitely a bit sheltered in my impression of the world we live in, simply because I have not experienced it. There is also a feeling of simplicity that comes with traveling to a foreign land. Sometimes I think that too often Americans can get sucked into this "have it all" mentality and forget about the simple pleasures of life. I'm guilty of this, but I can see that taking a long adventure could instill a better appreciation of the little things. A while back, I watched the movie Eat, Pray, Love with Julia Roberts. If you haven't had the chance to see it and like an inspirational "love your life" movie, I would definitely recommend renting it. I think it would do us all some good to get away from our busy schedules and just live in the moment. Sometimes we just need a little time for self discovery; some rest and relaxation that allows us to "find ourselves."

Question #2: “Will you share an embarrassing moment with a significant other?”

I would love to think that I would be willing to do this for a close friend or relative, but the truth is I'm not sure if I could. I think that right now I lack the self confidence to put myself out there for someone else. That's not to say that I can't eventually do it. Someday I hope to be secure enough with myself to be vulnerable with someone special to me. I think I just added a new goal to my 2011 list! :)

Question #3: “If your house were on fire, what’s the one thing you’d make sure to save?”

If I was lucky enough to be able to save anything, (I live in an apartment and chances are I would be at work if the building catches on fire) I would choose my birth certificate and my laptop. Now I know that's technically two things, but my files are right next to my laptop so I doubt it would take much to grab them simultaneously. Obviously I would want to save my birth certificate so that I can protect my identity. In the world we live in today, it's easier to take advantage of those people who have fallen upon hard times. I think it's important to protect yourself and always be able to prove who you are and where you came from. As for my laptop, that might seem like a petty choice. I would choose my laptop because that is where the majority of my memories are stored. Some people might choose to save special family pictures or heirlooms, but I have those things saved on my computer. They are all in one place, and if I lose the physical copy of a picture in a fire, I know that I will still have the digital copy to print a new one. Most people have digitized much of their lives now; doesn't it make sense to store important things all in one place? In fact, I may look into creating a digital copy of all my important documents like my birth certificate. Compacting it all in one place can be beneficial, even if only to save everything when  you can only grab one thing from the fire.

Question #4: “What’s the biggest misperception people have about you?”

I think people can sometimes perceive my practical demeanor as a lack of feelings and emotions. The truth is, I'm a very emotional person who has a big heart. The problem is that big heart has gotten me into a lot of trouble in the recent past, and because of that I have become a more practical person. This is not to say that I don't have dreams. I have the same dreams that I always did, but I approach life more practically now rather than whimsically. I've learned that it does no good to get emotional over every little thing. In reality, it does no good to get emotional over anything big or small. I think it is good for people to be able to "take everything with a grain of salt." There are going to be good things that happen in your life, but there will also be bad things. At the end of the day, it's not what you went through that matters, but how you handled it.

Question #5: “What’s the one life experience you want a do-over on?”

Wow, there are so many! Actually, I would choose nothing. I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. I believe that we succeed at some things and we fail at others, but there is a purpose in it all. If I fail once at something I really want, I can keep trying (there is nothing wrong with persistence and dedication) but I will only succeed when the time is right. If I apply for a job with a touring act that lasts a year, I might or I might not get it. If I don't, that means I'm supposed to do something else that year. There is some other feat I am to accomplish. I believe that even if you get a do-over and you fix what went wrong the first time, somehow the outcome will be the same.

That's all the questions. Wow, I've gained some insight into myself just answering them. I've learned a lot about myself that I already knew, but had maybe forgotten. It feels good to reinforce who I am and what I believe in. I challenge you to answer these five questions and see how your answers influence your own life!

2011: The Year of the Rabbit

So, I'm not obsessed with astrology and horoscopes by any means, but I do think that it can be beneficial to read them. I get my daily horoscope emailed to me every morning, and I think that it is always full of great motivational and cautionary sayings. In fact, I think that no matter your sign or birth year, these words of wisdom can be good words to live by. Think of these things as guidelines or inspiration to get you through the rough days, weeks, or even years. I used to be very skeptical about this kind of stuff, now I think it's great! So if you are looking for some words of encouragement or some help in this new year, even if you are just a little curious like I was, go ahead and take a look. Just try not to get too crazy with it! :)

2011 Chinese Horoscope: See what the Year of the Rabbit has in store for your sign

Is February Your Month for a Fresh Start?

So, we all have goals for this year right? Whether they focus on your career, finances, love life, or your health, the simple fact is we all struggle at some point. So why not get yourself off to a good start? Wouldn't it be nice to refresh yourself? Give this a try:

Healthy Food Diet: 7 Day Clean Eating Challenge

The benefits of participating in this challenge go far beyond your diet. A good clean diet can refresh and re-energize your entire body and mind. It can allow you to clear your head so you can focus on the more important things in life. How are you going to accomplish anything if you are always worrying about something else?

I'm reminded of my 16-year old niece. She works so hard to be an amazing gymnast and outstanding student. She has great organizational skills and seems to do pretty well at keeping her priorities in order. I'm sure you're thinking: "She seems to have it all in order! Why would she need any help with goals?"

Well, as great as she is at organizing her life, most of the time she forgets to schedule some down time to just relax and enjoy life. Sometimes I wonder if she keeps herself so entirely busy that she is missing out on being a teenager.

The truth is, we all do the same thing at some point in our lives. We tend to get too focused on our goals and our aspirations, that we forget how we are going to actually get there. We get sidetracked by our busy lives and don't take the time to enjoy life and everything in it. And sometimes we just get so caught up in doing things for everyone else that we forget about ourselves entirely. Isn't it time for a little self-appreciation?

You can gain a lot by taking some time to just DO NOTHING. You heard me right, I said "NOTHING." Sit back with your favorite soothing music or just in silence if you want and just do nothing. If you let your body and your mind take a breather, you will function much more efficiently and effectively.

Give it a shot! See what a little R&R can do for you!

The Dreaded Budget

Okay, so we all know that we should be creating a budget and sticking to it, right? Now here is the real question: "How many of us actually do it?" My guess is that not too many people have actually sat down and created a budget, let alone been able to strictly follow a budget in order to reach a financial goal. So, here is my point, I'm no expert, but if you don't take the steps to actually know how you are going to reach your goal, what is the point of setting a goal in the first place? Most everyone has a financial goal, something they would like to be able to do financially. Not everyone's goal is the same, but whether you are trying to save money, spend less, or maybe see where you could afford to spend a little more, sitting down and planning out a budget is how you get there. Now before budgeting, you need to analyze how you are currently spending your money. You might think you know where all of it is going, but the truth is most people are surprised what they find when they actual write it all down and add it up. I found this handy budget calculator on MSN.

THE 50-30-20 BUDGET

Feel free to use another method, I have always just written my spending down at the end of each month, and many people have other software tools to help them analyze current spending. I found this tool more helpful than my usual way of calculating, solely because it puts everything into a pie chart. I like being able to see exactly how much I spend in each category, and the pie chart allows to visually see this. I also like that it provides a list of things you might not normally think of when you write down your monthly expenses.

So now you have analyzed how you are currently spending your money. This can be a real eye opener for some, so take some time to soak it all in and really evaluate your spending habits. After this, it is time to set your budget for the following month. Make sure when you are doing this you keep in mind your past expenditures and your goals for what you would like to accomplish with your money. You can use the same tool as above, but you also might want to use something different depending on your goals.

Now that you've set up your budget you are home free! WRONG! Now that you've set your budget, you can't just leave it and expect it to happen on its own. The purpose of your budget is so that you have something you can follow that can guide you through your monthly spending and keep you on track to reach your goals. Make sure you keep your budget in a visible place where you will see it often. I have tried several places for mine; beside the bed with the book I'm currently reading, on my desk next to my bills and receipts, and I've even stuck it up on my refrigerator. Find a place where you know it will be seen so you can have a constant reminder of your goals and how you intend to accomplish them.

Some people like to use the same budget every month. I like to create a new one each month for two reasons. 1) It allows me to examine my spending and see if I was actually able to stay within my budget. What is the point of creating a budget if you don't measure the results? Did you spend too much on entertainment or eating out? Did you allot enough for your utilities at the end of the month? Figure out if you need to be better at sticking to a certain part of your budget or if you can allot more toward savings or another area. My point is: you can't accomplish anything if you don't know what you have accomplished. 2) Creating a new budget each month allows for different needs within different months. Every month is different. Some months you may need to allot more into your auto budget if you are due for an oil change or new tires. There may be a  month where you need to buy a gift for someones birthday or anniversary. None of these things really qualify as emergencies (unless you have a blowout which requires you to replace tires on your car), so you need to plan to pay for these things in other areas of your budget. It is okay for your save vs. spend ratio to vary. You don't have to always save the same amount each month. Make sure, though, not to let yourself get carried away thinking you can just put more into savings next month. If you let your savings go without adding to it, chances are you will have an emergency come up and then you won't have anything to fall back on.

The best way to accomplish your financial goals is to have a plan and follow it. Analyze your habits and create a logical plan that you can follow, then hold yourself accountable and assess how well your plan worked. Make the necessary adjustments and proceed to repeat the entire process again. If done right, you should be able to notice small achievements (in relation to the size of your goals) within the first couple months. The key is to keep at it and make your budget work for you. After all, that is the purpose of a budget!

What Have I Done?

The answer to that question is a simple "Nothing." On a day like today, I look back over this past year and ask myself "What have I done to help promote positive change?" As much as I believe in a world full of social peace, one in which we can "all just get along," I can't honestly say that I have actively done anything to help promote this idea of social change. The fact is, I have be so self-absorbed this past year, that I haven't taken any time to think of anyone else. I might have had a rough year. I might have went through some pretty tough things in my life. I might be on the bottom of the barrel. But I am not the only one who has gone/is going through this, and I am certainly not the worst off. I am lucky to have the supportive networks of family and friends that have been able to help and encourage me through what I've been through. I truly believe we should all take this year to focus on others and what we can do to help them. Now, I don't suggest that everyone can do this financially, I for one definitely cannot afford it. However, there is so much more to give of yourself than money. Donate your time. Offer a helping hand to your neighbor. Be supportive when a loved one is going through a significant time in their life. There are so many other things I'm sure a person could do to help make this world a better place. Every little thing does make a difference, even if we don't see it immediately, and even if we don't see it at all. It's like those commercials for Liberty Mutual.

This year I challenge myself to actively help make this world a better place. I extend this challenge to anyone else willing to accept it. I truly believe that my happiness will improve from doing good for others, and that is what I intend to focus on this year. Making silly resolutions that you are never going to stick to is just a waste of time. Committing to make an effort to change yourself and change the world for the better...that's a true goal.

To live in a world where people are actually concerned about the welfare of others, one where everyone truly cares about other human beings, that is the challenge that Dr. King extended to our country. We have come so far, but we still have much farther to go...I wonder if I will ever get to experience that world in my lifetime?

Young King Inspired by Time in Conn., Work on Farm

New Job Skills You'll Need for 2011

Still finding my way...

I've come to learn some new things recently.  Well, maybe not new things, but notions that I have not really thought about until now.  As much as I would like to think that I know it all, the simple truth is that I don't. I may think that I have been through so much turmoil that I know how to handle disappointment and sadness.  I may think that I have been hurt enough that I can see it coming and get out before it happens again.  But, in all reality, life is always going to be full of disappointments.  There are always going to be people that let you down.  There are always going to be people that hurt you and always going to be those who try to tear you down into pieces.  The trick is surrounding yourself with those who will always be there for you.  Keeping your life full of the people who will help you pick up the pieces when everything around you has crumbled to the ground.  I will never be able to protect myself from all the negative things in this world, but by surrounding myself with the positive people who care about me, I can always know that I will be able to recover from whatever life may throw at me.  I must try to accept that I will never understand why things happen the way they do.  In all reality, it doesn't really matter if I understand it or not, those things will still happen.  It's time to shed some of the drama from my life.  Love those who will always love you in return and live knowing that those who won't don't matter.