Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Outside Your Comfort Zone
A colleague of mine shared this article:
Courage Outside Your Comfort Zone
Move towards your fears.
"What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?"
--Vincent van Gogh, Dutch painter (1853-1890)
In 2011, you're going to need to do something new. You're going to have to shake up the pattern. You're going to have to break out the machete and cut a new path. In fact, I'd like to challenge you right now to embrace one simple maxim for 2011:
"This year, I will move toward my fear."
Here's the thing: Your comfort zone is holding you back. Dreaming small and acting small are safe decisions. Yes, they're ways of defending yourself from big losses, but they're also keeping you from the potential for enormous, positive change.
Does this mean you have to mortgage the house and gamble your life savings? No. In fact, life changes often begin by making small steps towards ambitious goals.
To begin, you simply need to change some patterns. Take a look at everything you do and see if there's an opportunity for change when you move beyond your comfort zone.
For example: Do you go to the same coffee shop every morning? How many new people have you met there in the past four months? Is it possible that by picking a different stop for coffee, you might just meet someone new? And could that new person serendipitously introduce you to a new circle of potential friends, clients, and business partners?
Take a look at your routines: The times you do things, the places you go, the processes you've relied on out of habit and inertia. What could you change?
If you come up with an idea that makes you uncomfortable or fills you with anxiety, don't turn away! Explore it further. Why does it make you uncomfortable? Are you afraid of the unknown? Might it prompt extraordinary change?
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results (don't take it from me... a bright guy named Albert Einstein is often credited with that one).
In 2011, summon the courage to go beyond your comfort zone. Take a step closer to your fears, and on the other side of those fears, you may just see opportunity.
See you next year!
Courage Outside Your Comfort Zone
Move towards your fears.
"What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?"
--Vincent van Gogh, Dutch painter (1853-1890)
In 2011, you're going to need to do something new. You're going to have to shake up the pattern. You're going to have to break out the machete and cut a new path. In fact, I'd like to challenge you right now to embrace one simple maxim for 2011:
"This year, I will move toward my fear."
Here's the thing: Your comfort zone is holding you back. Dreaming small and acting small are safe decisions. Yes, they're ways of defending yourself from big losses, but they're also keeping you from the potential for enormous, positive change.
Does this mean you have to mortgage the house and gamble your life savings? No. In fact, life changes often begin by making small steps towards ambitious goals.
To begin, you simply need to change some patterns. Take a look at everything you do and see if there's an opportunity for change when you move beyond your comfort zone.
For example: Do you go to the same coffee shop every morning? How many new people have you met there in the past four months? Is it possible that by picking a different stop for coffee, you might just meet someone new? And could that new person serendipitously introduce you to a new circle of potential friends, clients, and business partners?
Take a look at your routines: The times you do things, the places you go, the processes you've relied on out of habit and inertia. What could you change?
If you come up with an idea that makes you uncomfortable or fills you with anxiety, don't turn away! Explore it further. Why does it make you uncomfortable? Are you afraid of the unknown? Might it prompt extraordinary change?
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results (don't take it from me... a bright guy named Albert Einstein is often credited with that one).
In 2011, summon the courage to go beyond your comfort zone. Take a step closer to your fears, and on the other side of those fears, you may just see opportunity.
See you next year!
Get Rid of Clutter During this Last Week of 2010
If you are somewhat like me, feeling the need to get rid of clutter and clean out closets, drawers and items I have not used in quite sometime, the perfect time to get rid of some of these items is now. The last week of 2010 is perfect for this chore. I want to start the year off feeling ready to take on the New 2011 with my books in order, my closets cleaned out and my office well organized. I have a few goals for 2011 and I do not want the distraction of clutter or things that need to be finished.
The article I read this morning from WholeLiving.com is perfect so read on:
7 clutter-clearing tips to get you started:
1) Do an assessment. Go through each room and ask yourself “Do I feel happy, organized and calm in here? Do I feel comfortable inviting friends or a romantic partner here? If not, figure out why (I’m guessing it has to do with a cluttery mess).
2) Start with surfaces. First point of attack: countertops, dining table, desk, coffee table, bookshelves. When you clear the surfaces, you’ll be motivated to tackle the closed-off stuff. And it gives the biggest reward because the space feels different.
3) Get bags and label them Storage, Throw-Away, Recycle, Re-gift and Not Sure. Once you’ve filled them (which we’ll start to do in a moment, you want to get them out of your house asap). As for the "not sure" bag, give yourself permission to keep it for two weeks. And if you haven't found reason to dip into it, out it goes.
4) Tackle one space, one room, at a time. Taking on too much at once will take you from clutter to chaos and then it’ll be hard to get anything done.
5) Ask yourself 4 clutter-clearing questions: Do I use it? Do I need it? Do I love it? Does it invoke a positive memory and make me happy? If your answer is no, then it’s time to go.
6) Keep your spirits and energy up. Put on some fun music, drink a lot of water, open the windows and try not to get overwhelmed. Remind yourself that you are opening yourself and your space to new passions, interests and opportunities. You might also ask a friend who is not emotionally attached to your stuff to help you.
7) Clean, dust and mop to make your new area shine.
Have a wonderful day!
The article I read this morning from WholeLiving.com is perfect so read on:
7 clutter-clearing tips to get you started:
1) Do an assessment. Go through each room and ask yourself “Do I feel happy, organized and calm in here? Do I feel comfortable inviting friends or a romantic partner here? If not, figure out why (I’m guessing it has to do with a cluttery mess).
2) Start with surfaces. First point of attack: countertops, dining table, desk, coffee table, bookshelves. When you clear the surfaces, you’ll be motivated to tackle the closed-off stuff. And it gives the biggest reward because the space feels different.
3) Get bags and label them Storage, Throw-Away, Recycle, Re-gift and Not Sure. Once you’ve filled them (which we’ll start to do in a moment, you want to get them out of your house asap). As for the "not sure" bag, give yourself permission to keep it for two weeks. And if you haven't found reason to dip into it, out it goes.
4) Tackle one space, one room, at a time. Taking on too much at once will take you from clutter to chaos and then it’ll be hard to get anything done.
5) Ask yourself 4 clutter-clearing questions: Do I use it? Do I need it? Do I love it? Does it invoke a positive memory and make me happy? If your answer is no, then it’s time to go.
6) Keep your spirits and energy up. Put on some fun music, drink a lot of water, open the windows and try not to get overwhelmed. Remind yourself that you are opening yourself and your space to new passions, interests and opportunities. You might also ask a friend who is not emotionally attached to your stuff to help you.
7) Clean, dust and mop to make your new area shine.
Have a wonderful day!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Get Ready for 2011With the Whole Living Action Plan
With the Whole Life 28 day Mind and Body Action Plan that begins on January 3rd. This plan starts with a gentle detox to get your body ready for healthy changes. So for now, log on to www.WholeLiving.com and register to get your daily newsletter and get started on the path to healthier living.
FREE EMAIL NEWSLETTER
Whole Living Action Plan
Whole Living Action Plan DAILY
Recipes and tips, delivered each morning, to keep you on track in January and beyond.
Read more at Wholeliving.com: Whole Living Action Plan 2011
Week 1: Pare Down and Purify
Enjoy the next few days of reflection, relaxation and on January 1 and 2, you'll have time to regroup and prepare for the Plan. And on January 3, your new year -- and new you -- officially begins.
Can't wait to hear your comments on how this plan will help you and ME reach my health and physical goals.
FREE EMAIL NEWSLETTER
Whole Living Action Plan
Whole Living Action Plan DAILY
Recipes and tips, delivered each morning, to keep you on track in January and beyond.
Read more at Wholeliving.com: Whole Living Action Plan 2011
Week 1: Pare Down and Purify
Enjoy the next few days of reflection, relaxation and on January 1 and 2, you'll have time to regroup and prepare for the Plan. And on January 3, your new year -- and new you -- officially begins.
Can't wait to hear your comments on how this plan will help you and ME reach my health and physical goals.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Buying a New Home
WHY YOU NEED AN AGENT WHEN BUILDING A HOME
Opting for new home construction
Whether to buy an existing home or have one built is yet another decision to make during the home-buying process. If you decide to go with new construction, a real estate agent can be a powerful advocate in your corner as you negotiate upgrades, a move-in date and other terms with the home builder. Below are some basic pointers to prepare you for the journey ahead.
Selecting a builder
Shopping for a large production or custom home builder can be a daunting task. Start by defining what architectural styles appeal to you and then seek out the builders in your area who offer those styles. Due diligence is essential. Ask friends for referrals to get firsthand accounts; verify the builder's state license status, if applicable; and check whether they're certified by the National Association of Home Builders.
The builder representative and your real estate agent
A builder representative's ultimate goal is to sell you a home. His or her role is to provide a wide range of information to help you in your decision-making, from building restrictions, roads and easements to inspections, warranties, rebates and upgrades. A real estate agent knowledgeable in new-home construction will be able to help you wade through all the data and point out the downsides and upsides of each line item. Your agent also can look out for your interests in reviewing the builder's contract, which often contains more legal jargon than consumer-friendly language.
It's all about timing
Market conditions greatly dictate a builder's incentive to make a deal you cannot refuse. When a builder has inventory on his hands, his carrying costs start adding up. When this happens, a builder might be more amenable to strike a favorable deal, whether it's throwing in upgrades or taking a bit off the asking price. A real estate agent can help you know when market conditions are right for these benefits. Also, watch for builder close-out sales. Builders promote these special events when a new subdivision is near completion but empty inventory still remains.
A word about paying up
While there are always exceptions, most builders require a deposit when a purchase agreement is signed. They also require that the buyer pay for any upgrades prior to closing. If you back out prior to closing, unless the agreement states otherwise, you will lose that money. Make sure you understand every detail in the builder's contract before signing it.
You Are Represented
With Mary as your real estate agent, YOU are represented! Mary's experience, knowledge, and reputation represents strength and leverage on your behalf.
Opting for new home construction
Whether to buy an existing home or have one built is yet another decision to make during the home-buying process. If you decide to go with new construction, a real estate agent can be a powerful advocate in your corner as you negotiate upgrades, a move-in date and other terms with the home builder. Below are some basic pointers to prepare you for the journey ahead.
Selecting a builder
Shopping for a large production or custom home builder can be a daunting task. Start by defining what architectural styles appeal to you and then seek out the builders in your area who offer those styles. Due diligence is essential. Ask friends for referrals to get firsthand accounts; verify the builder's state license status, if applicable; and check whether they're certified by the National Association of Home Builders.
The builder representative and your real estate agent
A builder representative's ultimate goal is to sell you a home. His or her role is to provide a wide range of information to help you in your decision-making, from building restrictions, roads and easements to inspections, warranties, rebates and upgrades. A real estate agent knowledgeable in new-home construction will be able to help you wade through all the data and point out the downsides and upsides of each line item. Your agent also can look out for your interests in reviewing the builder's contract, which often contains more legal jargon than consumer-friendly language.
It's all about timing
Market conditions greatly dictate a builder's incentive to make a deal you cannot refuse. When a builder has inventory on his hands, his carrying costs start adding up. When this happens, a builder might be more amenable to strike a favorable deal, whether it's throwing in upgrades or taking a bit off the asking price. A real estate agent can help you know when market conditions are right for these benefits. Also, watch for builder close-out sales. Builders promote these special events when a new subdivision is near completion but empty inventory still remains.
A word about paying up
While there are always exceptions, most builders require a deposit when a purchase agreement is signed. They also require that the buyer pay for any upgrades prior to closing. If you back out prior to closing, unless the agreement states otherwise, you will lose that money. Make sure you understand every detail in the builder's contract before signing it.
You Are Represented
With Mary as your real estate agent, YOU are represented! Mary's experience, knowledge, and reputation represents strength and leverage on your behalf.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Are you in need of a contractor and don't know who to trust? Go to my home services directory at: http://ping.fm/9brmv
If you don't see what you are looking for, let me know and I will help. Directory updated frequently.
If you don't see what you are looking for, let me know and I will help. Directory updated frequently.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
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