Saturday, December 26, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

Having taken yesterday off to celebrate Christmas with friends and family it is now time to reflect on 2009 and look forward to 2010. Hard to beleive we are heading into the final days of 2009, and what a wild ride this year has been for many, myself included. If I had a clue as to what this past year had in store for me, I may have stayed in bed on January 1st. For many people 2009 has been a difficult year, not only from an economical standpoint but also from uncertainty of what the future has in store for them. As an eternal optimist I have to look at 2010 as a year of possibility and it is my hope that each of you have the same mind set.

I look toward the future, and what I see is excitement and new adventures that are sure to be fun filled and enlightening. I can't change a whole lot of what has happened in 2009, all I can do is move forward. As I often say in my book, I can't change what happened yesterday, and I have no clue what tomorrow has in store for me, so I simply live for today. And even today holds mysteries that I am not aware of. I will say that I have never started a New Year with so much anticipation of what is in store for me. I have wanted to write my book for 15 years and have been planning on holding seminars for that same period of time. And to know that this is what 2010 has in store for me, well let's just say that I am gitty as a young school boy.

It is my hope that throughout the next year that I will be able to excite each of you with what is in store for you in 2010. I want to help you achieve your dreams and no matter what your age, we all have dreams that we have yet to fulfill. If you are looking at 2010 without excitement then we have to talk. I know no one in this world that has accomplished all of their dreams, and my goal is to help you accomplish everyone of them. Not I am a realist and know that not every dream will come to fruition, but failing to work on them in foolishness gone to seed. You can be in the desert dying of thirst and if given a glass a water you can still die if you refuse to drink it. The same can be said of your goals and dreams, if you never attempt them they are empty and void.

Let's make a New Years resolution that you will look at your goals and put in the effort to work on them. Sometimes taking the first step is all you have to do and let nature take it's course. I see 2010 as a great year, for you and for myself. I look forward to seeing you at one of my seminars, it is time to get you excited about your future. I look forward to hearing about your successes and sharing the joy that comes with goal attainment. Remember, that if Life is a Journey, never go it alone. There are people out there who are there to help and desire helping you out, me included. Here's to saying goodbye to 2009 and hello to 2010.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

It's hard not to talk about the Holiday season since we are smack dab in the middle of it right now, and every other blogger is writing the same stuff. Try as I might my thoughts are on this special time of year, and what it means to others and myself. I do love this time of year because it always gives me pause to think about what is important to me. I love spending time with family and friends and everyone has a smile on their face and they seem to have a little get-up in their step. The malls are packed, roads full, and kids pinging off the walls in anticipation of what is going to take place in the morning. I so wish we could have this feeling throughout the entire year. Oh wait, it can be that way, we just have to make it so. We are the Captains of our own destiny. We have the ability to make it Christmas everyday. Maybe we just don't think about it that way because of the ups and downs of life.

As the eternal optimist I have to look at life as an opportunity to bless others and help them along their journey. This special season depicts Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward Man. But that raises a series of questions, the first being, why not Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward Man all year round? If we put the needs of others ahead of ours, think of the changes that would take place in the world. But also think of the changes that will take place in your life. It is human nature to fret and worry, but when you spend time helping others you will very rarely think about your own situation and then worry and frretting simple slips away. I can have a completely lousy day, and then have an opportunity to reach out to someone and I completely forget about the day I just went through. I don't focus on the negatives of a day, but on the opportunity to help someone in need. Now I'm no martyr, and the things I do for others are not meant to make me feel good about myself, that is not my motivation. My motivation comes from knowing that others have as much right for happiness as me, and if I can help them get there, why not get them there.

As we celebrate the Holidays and head full speed ahead into the New Year take a few minutes to give thanks for the many blesssings of the past year and know that 2010 holds promise, peace and joy. I look forward to my journey in 2010 and I encourage each of you to join me in that Journey. My goal for 2010 is to bring a message of excitement to as many people as I can. I want to touch the lifes of others in an attempt to get them to go after dreams, and start walking in the Destiny that was placed in them before they were born. Have a wonderful Holiday and know that I will be there for you In the future. Our futures are bright and all we have to do is take it one day at a time. Never go on a Journey alone, it makes no sense.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it alone?

One of the sayings I love to use is "Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water". There are so many things that happen during one's life it is some times hard to quantify what is good, bad, or indifferent. Life becomes such a whirlwind at times that we often don't know which way is up or down. I have had to take time over the last few months to slow down a bit and try to make certain decisions that I know will affect me long into the future. I am not immune to the ups and downs of life. Although I always try to display a positive outlook there are times when I'm not sure what is up or down. We all go through trials and tribulations, it would be great if we could escape all of that, but alas that is not reality. Reality really bites sometimes and all we can do is muddle through it and do the best we can.

In writing the book "True Destiny" I have found myself doing a self examination of my life and some of the things that have changed the path that I once thought I would take, just to find out that I ended up on another one. My self-examination was hard at times, but in the end it forced me to come to some conclusions that were long over due. Was my journey through self-examination painless? Let's put it this way I think I would rather have had a root canal with no pain killers than go through the process again. But alas I know I will have to go through it again sometime in my life, but maybe this next time I will be more prepared and will handle things a little differently.

Just about time I think I have life figured out something jumps out to stump me, and I stand there looking like a complete idiot when I don't have an answer to one of life's questions. Let's face it we all walk about with that stupid look on our faces from time to time. Never a pleasant place to be, but a huge learning opportunity. We need to accept the fact that we are all going to walk around stupid from time to time. WE won't have all the answers, heck there are times when we don't even have a clue as to the questions to ask. When you are faced with one of these situations maybe it's time to reach out to a friend or loved one for help. Hey maybe they won't give you the best answer or even a correct one, but it will be from the heart, covered with sincerity and that is all you can ask for.

Never be afraid to ask for help, and never be ashamed that you are asking. Even the most accomplished among us has asked for help from time to time, and I am quite sure they appreciate any help that was given. So the next time life throws you a curve ball, don't run and take cover, stand tall, proud, and know you have the ability to handle it. Now think about that.......

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

Wow is is hard to beleive that Christmas is right around the corner and after that the New Year. I am finding it hard to believe how fast 2009 flew by. They say as you get older that time has a way of passing quicker than before. Well to me 2009 went by at warp speed, and my guess is that 2010 will be approaching warp factor 10. I have many fond memories of 2009, and some not so fond ones, but as a whole is was a great year. My hope is that each of you had success in 2009 and that success will make a smooth transition into 2010.

The question I have for each of you is what are you expecting in 2010. I dare say that if 2009 was a great year you are hoping that it will continue for all of 2010. If on the other hand 2009 was a forgetable year, then I'm sure you are looking for new ground in 2010. No matter what your situation, I think we can all agree that 2010 will hold challenges, and with challenges come opportunities. Most of you know that I thrive on a challenge. It's not that I create them, but I do find myself in them from time to time. I think that how one handles life's challenges shows your character and makeup. No one is immune to daily challenges, and the sooner we realize that the better we will all be for it. Challenges will force you to grow in areas you have only begun to think about. The Christmas Tree Shop says "Don't you just love a Bargin?", I like to ask "Don't you just love a Challenge?"

I will admit that there are times where challenges come at a very inappropriate times. It would be great if we could schedule them when they fit into our schedule, but life isn't that simple. So the only thing we can do is handle them when they come up and do the best we can. Doing your best during a challenge is all one can ask. No one is ever going to be able to handle everything life throws at you. It is for that reason that you need people on your side helping you in times of need. I love to lend a helping hand when someone is in need. I don't do it because I am looking for glory or accolades, but because people are deserving of the assistance. I would hate to think that I will go through the rest of my life with out the assistance of others. If that were the case I would give up the ghost right now.

The time has come to realize that we can not go thru life alone without assistance from others and that assistance can come in many different forms. And often it can come from sources we never would think possible.

As we approach the New Year I challenge each of you to reflect on 2009 and look forward to 2010. Start the year out thinking that the glass is half full and not half empty. Positive thinking is a lost art, but an art that needs to be renewed and used. My hope for 2010 is to reach thousands with a message of hope, encouragement, and empowering words. If you are lacking any of these get a hold of me and we will meet one on one and get you headed in the right direction. My gut tells me that 2010 will be a banner year and I want it to be banner for each of you.

As I write in my book, if you aim at nothing you will hit it every time. It is time to look at our goals and go after them. 2010 is your year and it is my year, together we are going to rock the world.........think about that..........

Monday, December 21, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

This on one of the most magical weeks in the entire year. Most schools are closed for the holiday week, as children are chomping at the bit for Christmas to get here. Countless people are attempting to get that last bit of shopping done, which was supposed to be done weeks ago. I am one of those and most likely will be doing most of it one or two days before Christmas. Most of you who know me know that I love the Christmas season so so much. I truly believe there needs to be Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward men. I aslo beleive that we have gotten away from the true meaning of the christmas season which is evident by the stress on so many people's faces this time of year. Why is it we feel as though we have to keep up with the Jone's. Isn't it enough that we have time with friends, family and loved ones during this special time of year, and not worry about the number of presents under the tree? And yet for most people we only have limited contact with friends, family and loved ones during this time of year.

I try to keep the Christmas spirit going throughout the year. Now I do take down the decorations shortly before the new year, but I keep the memories of this season with me throughout the year. I look for opportunities to bless others, and will not pass up an opportunity to help others in need. You need to know that my desire to help others is not due to the fact that I am better than others, or because I have an abundance to give. I would give away my last dollar if someone needed it. My desire to bless others is due in large part to my honest belief that people are deserving of being blessed. It is not based on anything that they have done, but rather simply because they are alive and roaming the planet. I do not bless people because there is something in it for me, but because I feel compassion and compassion drives most of my activities.

During this season why not think of others and see what it does for you. Putting other's needs ahead of yours will change your life and perspective. In my book I talk about someone taking the first step toward their destiny. It only takes one step to get you going, and after that first step the second is just a little bit easier. The same can be said about displaying compassion. Each time you display this it gets a little easier the second, third and fourth time. In fact with each successive display of compassion you will eventually get to the point where it is common place in your life and it becomes what you are.

We are all in need of people who display compassion to us. Everyone has the need to feel as though they belong to someone or something. As I have said so many times before being alone is a horrific place to be in life. We are creatures who need contact with others. Just look at people who have been kept in some type of solitary confinement. It only takes a little bit of time before they go absolutely mad. Say what you want about being alone and going at things alone, I don't buy it and will call you crazy if you say you like it. We are social creatures and we need social interaction. Yes some need it more than others, but we all need it to varying degrees.

I challenge each of you this week to reach out and touch a life or two. What you put into action this week could very well change a life forever, and forever is a very long time. Think about it.....

Saturday, December 19, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

I was ironing clothes this morning, trying to get ready for work and also for a Holiday Party tonight. I gave myself plenty of time to accomplish this task as I am one who hates to be rushed and being rushed only causes me undue stress. I was thinking about the holiday season and the stress I see on so many faces walking around the mall and other locations. I must admit that I am not immune to stress, but I also try to keep myself out of situations that create stress and discomfort. I will only do my Christmas shopping when I have no other plans in place. We've all tried to fit a quick buy into our schedule and inevitably you will get into the one check out line that is as slow as molasses in January. So not only do you stress because you know you are going to be late, but it somehow takes away some of the joy of what you are purchasing. I have learned to relax and enjoy the shopping experience. I will try to start up a conversation with anyone in the line with me. If I can get their mind off the wait, it just may put a smile on their face and alter what has probably been a less than perfect day.

Expectations have been the downfall for many, and especially during the Holiday Season. People have certain expectations that tend to frustrate, irratate, and otherwise bring them down. If the Holiday season is suppose to promote Peace on Earth Goodwill to Men, why do so many people hate it so. Might it be that we have so elevated this holiday season to Material Holiday, that there is no way to get away from it. Don't get me wrong, I love giving gifts to freinds and loved ones, but I also know that this season puts stress on others who do not have the means to lavish gifts on others.

Maybe just maybe, it's time to rethink what this season is all about and on an individual basis change how we operate. I have told people that it's not the size or price of the gift that counts, but the feelings and emotions behind the gift. We have all seen all the Christmas movies that have been playing non-stop for the last month. I love them and will watch as many as humanly possible during this season. But I watch them for the display of love, and I will admit that I am a cryer. I love a feel good movie and they always give me reason to think about my relationships and how I might make them better. I know that I am not the only one out there who feels this way. If I am the only one, then this world is headed in the wrong direction.

I encourage each of you to reflect on what this season means, and what you can do to make it special for someone else. There is so much more to the Holidays, now is the time to show others what the difference is, not only in you, but in them. Touch a life this year, bring a warmth to their heart and a smile on their face. Giving the gift of a smile or warm sincere laugh is the greatest gift there is next to love. They are free and there is a never ending supply of them. Try to make someone smile and see if it doesn't put a smile on your face, and warmth in your heart. Spread some holiday cheer and make the world a better place.

Friday, December 18, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

I was talking with a good good friend today who was feeling the pressure that accompanies many people during the Christmas season. He was expecting a cash payment from someone, who for what ever reason failed to come through with his promise. This in turn caused him to not be able to fulfill a promise he made to someone else. I could see the stress in his face, and I could feel for him for I have been in this same position many times in the past. If he could find a bridge to drive off of today he might give it some serious thought. These feelings of desperation can be overpowering and it feels as though there is no place to turn for relief. I would rather have hot needles stuck under my finger nails verses going through this.

I look at my friend and wish I had the resources to rescue him and everyone who is going through similar situations. Compassion rules my life, and I will always try to show compassion to someone in need. Now don't confuse compassion with pity, they are as different as night and day. I often wonder what it is that makes me compassionate. Is it there because of the way my parents raised me, a product of my upbringing? Is it there because it is a natural human emotion? I don't have an answer to that question and in reality it really doesn't matter. I love the fact that I am compassionate. I love people, and to be honest don't love them because I want them to love me back. When I reach out to an individual it isn't because I am looking for anything in return. If I could help others and remain completely anonymous I would love that. I do because of who I am, not because of what I want.

Life is difficult at best, and if I can assist others in their life to make things a little more tolerable then what harm has been done? The answer is simple, no harm has been done. It is so easy to show compassion, but it is more often than not a learned trait. If someone in your life has shown you compassion, it is my hope that the day will come when you return the favor and show compassion to others in need.

We will all face trying times in our life, there is no escaping that. But having a friend or loved one available during those times is a blessing. There have been times in my life when I did not have a ton of extra money, and yet if I run into a friend in need, as God is my wittness, would give away my last dollar to help them out. I don't do it because I have, but rather because I want to. I am moved to reach out and help those in need. I would like to think that if ever I were in a position to need more than I had that someone would be there to assist me.

We all need people in our life who will stand with us and give assistance when needed. You can not go through life alone, and if one is to be successful, then being alone is not an option. I don't know anyone who has reached a level of success who will tell you they have done it on their own without the help of others. If you know someone like that please let me know and I will reach out to them right away. The Bill Gates and Warren Buffets of this world will all tell you that they have had help from various people along the way. There is no shame in getting help, the only shame is in being so prideful that you don't ask for the help.

Compassion is a beautiful thing both to the giver and recipient. Go out today and spread the wealth, it will do you go and it will bless others. Think about it.......

Thursday, December 17, 2009

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it alone?

There are far to many times in each of our lives when we are unsure of the direction or road that we should take. Our initial instinct is too take the path of least resistance, but that is how we have been conditioned to operate. Robert Frost, American Poet, says we should take the path least traveled. The question you need to answer for yourself is what path will I take today, and where will that path lead. I must say that the end of the path is not always the most important factor when deciding what to do. We all want to find that Pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow, but have you ever given thought to the fact that the pot of gold may not be what is most important. What you learn on your journey to get to the pot of gold may be more valuable than anything else in your life.

Life experiences are truly priceless, and if we would just take time to reflect on what we have already learned and not try to reinvent the wheel each time our journey might be a whole lot more enjoyable. Life can be tough there's no doubt about it, but if accomplishing goals was easy, if achieving greatness was a piece of cake, and if reaching the mountain top was a far gone conclusion, why hasn't everyone gotten there. The ups and downs of life are experienced by everyone, and I do mean everyone. What we take from those experiences makes us stronger and quite frankly more valuable to others. They are fortunate that they can learn from our mistakes or failures.

As you continue on this journey called life, ask yourself this question. Do I really think I can do it all by myself? If you are truthful, and I hope that you will be, you will have to conclude that life is far to complicated and hard to face it all alone. Reach out for assistance when you need it, and offer assistance when asked. You may find out that life really isn't all that bad, and maybe just maybe, you might be setting yourself up for a very good day. Think about it........

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

I was trying to decide how much of my book I wanted to reference in my daily blog. It's kind of like the previews you see at the movie theater. They always seem to show the funniest part of the movie to draw you in. I guess it works because I will go to the movie, but somehow I often feel like the best part of the movie was the preview itself. I will endeavor not to repeat any of that in my blogs. Truth be told the subject matter of the book is such that it would be impossible to put all of it on a daily blog. It's not that the book is so long, it isn't, it has everything to do with that the book is a changing document. How one individual interprets the book will be different from someone else, since each of their situations are different. I guess that makes me very lucky as the possibilities for those that read the book will be endless.

I beleive in endless possibilites. Call me crazy, but as most of you will find out by reading this blog, I am the eternal optimist. The glass is always half full and not half empty. To know me is to realize that I want nothing more than for everyone to walk in their destiny. There are times when we need a little help getting to the promised land, that's where I come in. Can I single handedly change the world? Yep!! It's not that I am great or special, unless you consider compassion to be a special gift. I love people and I love helping others. I can't solve every problem in the world, but if I can help one person each day to see what they are destined for then I have indeed had a very good day.

So as I have said before and will say time and time again in the future; If life is a Journey, never never go it alone. It's time that each of us get off the sideline and into the game. Great things come to great people and just incase someone hasn't told you lately you are great. Think about it.....

Monday, December 14, 2009

If Life is a Journey, Why Go it Alone?

As this is my first blog I want to take a moment and tell my daughter, see I told you I would figure it out. Oh her of little faith. I will admit that I am not the most computer savey person in the world, but where there is a will there is a way.

You may be asking yourself what is True Destiny, and what does it have to do with me? Well I am a firm believer that we all have a destiny that most people have yet to discover. My goal is to enable all people to come to an awareness of what that destiny is, and set their feet on a path to accomplish what they were put on this earth to accomplish. I was having a dicussion with a client the other day and we talked about people who are in jobs and positions they hate. They get up every just wishing they were anywhere other than on their way to work. Be honest, if you are feeling this way are you really doing what you're supposed to be doing or wanting to do.
Destiny is having the job that is no longer a job but a vocation. Sure even the best jobs in world can bring stress and discomfort. But at the end of the day, you still love what you are doing, and can't see yourself doing anything else.

So as I join the blog family today, join me on my jouney, and realize that if life is a journey, ask yourself this, why go it alone?

Think about it......