Monday, November 12, 2007

 

Confessions of a Wimp

I guess you can call me a closet wimp. What you say? Yes, I am by definition a wimp, if you consider a person who relies on a spiritual power for support and sustenance.

I am like a lot of guys that have endorsed and lived a macho life. I am talking about being an ex- Marine, a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, a rugged individualist, a cancer survivor and whatever.

I didn’t intentionally try to be a macho person. It was just my natural bent. I just fell into it. If you get my drift. In fact, most people I know, that don’t run from fear, are like myself, very unassuming and humble.

In case you are wondering, the “wimp” part in my headline relates to my recent grasp of bringing God into my life. There is a segment of society that categorizes people of faith as being wimps. Getting closer to God has changed my whole persona. You know what I mean? human potential In brief, this God business has made me “bullet proof”. I kid you not.

What do I mean by this? I can with stand twice as much abuse and punishment now. I don’t get worn down by adversaries and critics. I feel my future and its potential is twice as great. Before my embracement of “faith”, I let reason and logic dictate too much to me. When you get to be an old guy like me, you get “burned out”.

I give credit to the “new Jack” to Joel Osteen. Joel OsteenI caught a few of his tv programs. What I like about his is the fact that he is not a holier than thou character. He is not a bit dogmatic or intimidating. This is pretty good from a guy that hasn’t set foot inside a place of worship for forty years.

Don’t get me wrong. I am no goody goody kind of guy, maybe a wimp.In fact, just about 18 months ago I was battling colon cancer, radiation and chemo in a hospital. I was in the hospital for 18 days, accompanied with nausea, diarrhea, pneumonia, and all around misery. Finally, when I began to recover, the main man Doc came into visit me with a cute nurse. He introduced me as a real “hard core” kind of guy. I am very proud of that. Being an ex-Marine…hoorah! I didn’t “wimp” out.

When I read in Books of Inspiration that belief as small as a muster seed can move a mountain, I got turned on. Or, just using a little concentration and focus can split a mountain in half, really excited me. Come on you little wimp.

Matter of fact, I did a little “positive projection” for my son recently, and he is now living an incredible successful life. How does that grab you? I will tell you, it certainly has my attention.



In terms of human relations, I do a “slide and glide” routine now. I was raised in the Judio-Christian upbringing, so that’s where I am coming from. I am of the firm conviction that it doesn’t matter what religious thought anyone has. The world’s great religions provide all of us the “same basic tools” to cope with life. Our cultures play a big part in this.

Oops. I almost got side tracked. Let’s get back to “slide and glide”. My reference source comes from Biblical Scriptures. I call them my Wisdom Books. I get all kinds of practical advice in dealing with people. For example, lets say one of my neighbors does some stupid wacko thing. And, it really pisses me off, even for a wimp like me.

My initial reaction is to give this “neighbor” a piece of my mind. I am mad and my ego has been put down. So what do I do? Start screaming and yelling and make a big jerk out of myself? No way. At least not with the new Jack. (That’s me…I’m Jack) My wisdom book consuls me to keep my mouth shut. In fact, it goes further then that. My Reference says in effect, “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.”, and “ He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit is better than he that taketh a city.”


So, what do you think about that? I’ll tell you what I think. Because of these wise words of restraint, I can still speak to my neighbors. No one thinks I am some kind of hothead. My blood pressure stays normal and I am an all around happier and healthier person.

I consider these Biblical Scriptures, my Wisdom Books, my new martial arts. Yes, I am a 2nd Degree Black Belt-TaeKwonDo. They keep me in check, serene, out of trouble and happy. This leaves my energy level strong and dynamic. Therefore I can deal effectively and resourcefully with other more constructive and positive issues. Hoorah! Stand Great

Monday, October 29, 2007

 

Get Transformed

Do you want turn your dreams into reality?

The real question is, do you want it bad enough to CHANGE?

Maybe the real question is, “What form of change do I need to make?” Change to what?

The process we are discussing is called “transformation”. What is the most effective element in this transformation process? There is no doubt about it, “desire” to change on the part of the person involved is the necessary ingredient.

The transformation process can take a good deal of time or it can be quick and dramatic. This depends on what school of thought you wish to follow.

There are people in the transformation business who will tell you to “model” yourself as per a successful person in your field of interest. I did this when I first got into the sales profession. I found it extremely helpful and effective.

The key ingredient, is to know yourself. By this, I mean, be aware and take into consideration your likes and dislikes. Your personality, character, and background. This is essential. You may be able to kid everybody else, but you can’t kid yourself. At least, not for long.

Ask yourself, “What makes me truly happy? What nurtures me?” For example, you may think money is your number one interest. On the other hand, if you find business to be a boor, maybe you better think twice.

If you were raised in a loving strong highly principled environment, and you internalized this ideal environment, make sure you don’t get involved in any scam programs that rip people off or are questionable.

You may make some big money, however, eventually the lack of ethical practice will come back to haunt you. You may have a few bucks, but the lack of satisfaction, you will discover, won’t be worth trouble.

The really good news is, you don’t need to be almost “there”, in order to be successful.
In fact, the further you are away from your goal or dream, the more fun is will be in the achieving of it.

Everybody says you need all kinds of self-confidence in order to be successful and achieve. That is pure baloney. Don’t let anybody kid you about this. In fact, this is a very serious matter. Most people give up on themselves and their dreams because they feel like losers.

Just plain flat ignore these so called “experts” when it comes to this confidence matter. What is important for you is to understand the “power of belief” and how it works. If you want lots of “juice” from the power of belief, just a little itty bitty amount of belief will do the job for you. You don’t need gobs of self-confidence. The faith of a little “musterseed” will do the job. Just give your subconscious a little smidgen of feeling of what you want and look out!

Here is what two Leaders of historical great religions had to say about this matter:

Buddhism- “A monk who is skilled in concentration can cut the Himalayas in two.”Anguttara Nikaya 6.24

Christianity- “Truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17.20

StandGreat

Monday, October 01, 2007

 

How To Win With Supernatural Power

Want a leg up on life?

Then start using supernatural power. I am talking about using the power of belief that taps into the supernatural. Traditionally, this means accessing the power of faith through religion.

This means taking any of the World Religions-Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity as described by Huston Smith in his book, The World Religions, and applying the power of belief in terms of getting what you want in life.

How many people would be interested in getting an edge up on life? You know what I am talking about…like getting an “advantage” over your competitors. Relax, it’s not really cheating. Actually, it’s quite legit. Yeah, you could say it’s downright admirable. Just use supernatural power.


I am a Christian and all of my context comes from this source, Christianity. I am of the conviction that all world religions lead to the same destination. And, I believe, these religions can empower its believers to achieve their hearts desires with supernatural power.

We know the power of belief works wonders with peoples health.

Research scientist Dr. Louise Hawkley has been studying 200 Cook County residents for six years and believes people who have a strong relationship with God have more resilient nervous systems. They handle stress better and see significant health benefits.

"People who had this religious well-being, they had not had heart attacks," Hawkley said.

Catholic, Jewish, Protestant, Muslim, whatever the religious tradition, a growing body of research shows a strong connection between spirituality and health.

Prayer Power With Supernatural Power.

The use of prayer in promoting good health, long life and recovery from illness is not just a New Age fad, but very old ideas that are being rediscovered, medical experts say.

More and more doctors are coming to appreciate the role faith can play in medical matters, says a report in Reader's Digest magazine.

The publication cites a study by Dartmouth University researchers indicating that "deeply religious" heart patients are far less likely to die during surgery and a Yale University study showing that regular churchgoers' hospital stays are far fewer than those of individuals who never attend church.

Harvard Medical School's Dr. Herbert Benson says the facts are there. A relaxed state induced by prayer and meditation reduces the impact of stress hormones on the body and "lowers blood pressure and even slows brain waves, all without surgery."

Prayer seems to reassure patients they are not alone in their struggle, says Duke University's Dr. Harold Koenig. Such an attitude counteracts the psychological isolation that often undermines recovery for the seriously ill, he says.

The publication says a healthy respect for faith can also serve to remind doctors that their patient is a real person, not just a collection of symptoms and medical tests.

Apply belief power to any area of your life.

A couple of examples of supernatural power:

1. Want to knock them dead and move a mountain? “Truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17.20 - Christianity

2. You can do the same thing with Buddhism… “A monk who is skilled in concentration can cut the Himalayas in two.” Anguttara Nikaya 6.24

Use supernatural power for something down to earth!

Like getting a good job that pays lots of money. You can do it, you know. Maybe you would love to get a good job for someone you love or who needs help badly. I did it for my son. Just a couple months ago, prayed that my son would have some wonderful things happen to him.

Guess What? It did! Now he has a fabulous job and more money that he knows what to do with. I honestly couldn’t believe it.

I am walking proof!

Two years ago, I was being treated for colon cancer. The radiation they gave me, almost killed me. Here I am today, a picture of health. My Good Lord cut me some slack and dispatched the Grim Reaper.

I may have a few more dents in me, but I am happy to be alive and kicking. Sure I am cocky. I told my surgeon I was going to kick butt and live forever.

So try Belief Power. What is there to loose. Speaking from personal experience, you have an awful lot to gain.

Stand Great

Sunday, September 16, 2007

 

Why Is Being A Winner So Hard?

What is the hardest part about being a winner?
Hard work, imagination, creativity, or getting along with other people?

Believe it or not, the answer is believing you can be a winner. Just believing you can do the dog gone thing is the hardest part.I kid you not.

The process of actually accepting in your mind’s eye the possibility and reality that you in fact have what it takes to reach your prized goal is a big part of being a winner.

What is this “process of actually accepting”? It means knocking down the door of fear and walking directly into the light of positive belief and expectancy.

This is not the easiest thing in the world to do. The best way to approach this matter is to use the Incremental Process. And, what’s that? It’s the method used quite successfully in martial arts. It can take a white belt in martial arts all the way up to a black belt which is being a winner.

I am a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. So, I have some background in what I am talking about. The most practical approach to accomplishing the seemingly impossible is to use the incremental approach.

Let’s go back to the example of martial arts and incremental progression. A white belt student starting out is lucky if he can lift his leg, let alone execute a proper kick that has force and direction. Imagine how he must feel when he observes black belts executing fancy spin heel kicks and breaking boards held over the holder’s head!

Normally the entire spectacle is very overwhelming. Most white belts feel, after observing seasoned black belts execute these advanced kicks with force and precision, they will be lucky if they can advance to the next logical advancement of belts; namely, the yellow belt. In another words, forget about being a black belt. That whole process is entirely out of the question. It’s beyond a possibility of ever happening. The task is just too daunting.

So what do we do about this mess? Simple answer. We inject incremental progression and get everybody off the hook. How does this work in martial arts? Martial art schools introduce their students, Tae Kwon Do, to very basic kicks in a slow but sure manner. This is a sure way to being a winner.

The white belt learns to execute a “front” kick initially. This kick is integrated with various exercises to add interest and variety to the student. After several months of this, the instructor tests the white belt on basic key points. The student gets promoted to a yellow belt status, assuming he passes the white belt test.

This process is repeated over an over, all the way up to and through Black Belt tests. This step by step process helps the student avoid being overwhelmed by the daunting tasks of executing the more advanced kicks and maneuvers that exist with the advanced belt designations in martial arts.

Interestingly, only about 10% of beginning white belts aspirants actually go on to obtain a Black Belt. The same analogy can be applied to other endeavors in life. The point being, you can obtain seemingly very difficult tasks, if you approach them in a “incremental” manner which is being a winner.

First set your sight on your desired goal. Then immediately break it down to small manageable steps. The important thing here is to allow yourself enough time inorder to reach your goal. For example, it took me 7 years to reach my coveted goal of obtaining a black belt in tae kwon do.

I didn’t mind the time required, because I enjoyed the actual process of doing and participating in the martial art. This is very important. You must enjoy the environment you will be in during the process of your coveted goal obtainment.

If you don’t love the “environment” that comes with your desired objective, then forget about it and go on to something else more suitable to your talents and temperament. Sometimes you need to try different things and explore. Don’t be afraid to do this. Change and exploration is an essential to growth and success. Stand for Your Greatness

Wednesday, September 05, 2007

 

How Humility Can Be Your Best Friend

That's right, humility can really help you rise to the top to whatever is important for you. Can you imagine that?

Why? Because it will let you say and do things that would otherwise be impossible for you. I am not talking about subservience to others. Webster refers to humility as a state of being humble. And being humble means not being arrogant or haughty.

I personally can think of many instances where being humble would have served me in good fashion. No you guessed it. I can think of many times in my life were I was anything but humble. It would have paid me big time if I had worn the cloak of humility.Stand for Your Greatness







I am referring specifically to an out of control ego and how that hurt my bottom line or pocketbook. After a series of negative instances like this, I took pause and reflected upon the unfortunate situations I had created for myself.

“Gee, I wish I had exercised more self-discipline.” You know, things like that. Psychologists will tell you that this appears to be examples of a sense of inferiority or insecurity. As I look back on the unfortunate situations, there probably is some truth to that.

On the other hand, had I been living with some genuine humility, I have no doubt in my mind, things would have turned out different for me. Certainly in a more positive manner.

Lets face it, if you have genuine humility, the world and everything in it, can be your oyster. I mean, like you can live your life like a genuine champion. Like how?

Well for starters, you can live with the certainty and knowledge that there is nothing out there that will be a threat to your ego. You know what I am referring to when I mention “ego”. I am referring to the “man in charge”. The deal breaker. You know, the guy that is always sticking his foot in his mouth. Like saying the wrong things at the wrong time.

His boss is Mr. Fear. This is who he takes his orders from. Anyway, back to subject at hand…living with humility. It’s a no brainer. Take the shield of humility with you into what ever arena you choose, and believe me, you will be very pleased with your results.

Like how? Most importantly, you will be the master of your emotions. Now how is that for starters? How many times have you let your temper or whatever negative emotions you can think of, get in your way of making a good impression, sealing a deal or handling criticism, or frustrations?


Speaking for myself, I over the years, have been my own worst enemy. I am sure you know what I am talking about.

Another big advantage of wearing the shield of humility is, not many people are going to be envious or jealous of you. Who can get mad at a genuine humble person? Why? The answer is simple, nobody will consider you a “threat”.

In this regard, it is only human nature, to want to help a humble person. Why? Because most humble people are enjoyable to be around. They are not arrogant, threatening, or invasive. A humble person makes you feel good about yourself. A humble person normally doesn’t “rub you the wrong way”.

Remember Marco Polo? History tells us that he was a very humble guy. Whoop! Whoa. Stop right here. Being humble doesn’t mean you don’t possess self confidence.
Goodness no. A really confident person doesn’t need to show boat his abilities. A “quiet self-confidence” serves to sooth the anxieties and tensions of the moment.

How do you think Marco Polo was able to get along and persuade these movers and shakers from entirely different cultures and customs then what he was from? He did it with genuine humility and leadership.

The same can be said for Buddha, Jesus Christ, and Alexander the Great, for that matter.
You might not associate humility with Alexander the Great, but it is true. If you do any ready about Alexander, you will realize that humility was one of his greatest attributes.

His claim to glory was the fact that he was barely 30 years old when he conquered the known world for his time. And how did he do that? Why of course, he did it with his army. But, he didn’t have a huge army. Not by any means. In fact, in military terms, it was quite common for his army to be outnumbered by the enemy.

The secret to his incredible military leadership was that his men actually loved and adored Alexander. They would march to hell for him. And why was this? The fact be known was that Alexander approached his men with great humility. He made it a habit to arise in the mornings very early with his men and do the compelling physical work outs with his men.

He led his men into battle, not from the rear away from danger, but right smack dab in the front. He always placed himself in the thick of the action. In fact, it is said, that Alexander, possessed more scars from battle then needle point marks on a quilt patch.

During Alexander’s long march in one of his India campaigns, the thirst and exhaustion became devasting for the entire Macedonian army.
The troopers were dropping off like flies. Finally, Alexander called a halt for a rest period. During this reprieve, the troops shared all of their water and poured the remnants in one cup and gave it to Alexander for his nourishment.

What did Alexander do when he received the cup with water? He turned to his men and said that if there wasn’t water for his troops then he wouldn’t drink the water. Then he poured out the water to the ground. His army roared with praise and approval. The loved him.

Monday, September 03, 2007

 

Seismic Change, Are You Ready For It?

Seismic Change? Are you ready? Good, then let's kick it up!


That’s what I thought. Most people want to make positive changes in their lives. But, they want to do it slowly and gradually. Apparently it’s too painful to walk away from old routines, habits and friends-like frustration, anxiety, fatigue, anger, jealousy, and despair.

It’s better to deal with the old enemy you know then encounter someone or something brand new and different. Right? Here we go again…Nobody wants to leave their comfort zone! Who's ready for seismic change?

I mean, like most success strategies, are really self-defeating. No wonder so many people are frustrated and unhappy. Isn’t this how it works? You focus with your desired goal. Draw up a strategy and tactics to back it up. Then what happens? Well, usually, you work like crazy trying to materialize your desired outcome or reach your goal. Right? Isn’t this the way it works?

I can speak from personal experience. Yes, this is the way it works. Oh yeah, there are all kinds of nuances that you can put in play. You know, things like visualization and the Law of Attraction. But gee whiz, gosh almighty, most often this doesn’t work either. Right ?

Ok, are you ready for Seismic Change? Then, let’s kick it up! I have some wonderful successes in my life and also a bunch of failures. Wow! I mean those failures were really great “learning opportunities”.

Forget about the successes. Let’s talk about things that didn’t turn out the way I wanted them to. The most obvious thing that sticks in my mind is that I would get bogged down in the nitty-gritty of executing my strategy. You know, applying the various tactics. Dealing with the everyday brick and mortar stuff. Just hanging in there and slogging through.

The sixty four million dollar question is when do you bring things to a halt and change direction? Make seismic change? Huh? What’s that? Change direction. I didn’t say “give up”. Or “quit”. I said “change direction”. You know, re-evaluate, or reassess the situation.

Here is were most people make their mistake. It’s human nature, to want to “hang on” to the old stuff we know about and are familiar with. Here’s that “comfort zone” rearing its ugly head again.

Anyway, the point being here is…you gotta have the integrity and courage to break free of the old habits and ways of thinking that haven’t been working for you. Just like busting up an unworkable relationship. Right? Sometimes you really have no alternative. No matter how badly you want things to work out.

You have to come to the realization that things aren’t working and if you continue in the same direction and manner of doing things, well, you are simply kidding yourself.

The problem with this “insight” is that it takes a great amount of character and mature judgment inorder to know when to keep fishing or cut bait. And herein lies the secret and also the problem… “sometimes it pays to hang in there and push a forward a little longer and other times it’s simply a question of “fish or cut bait”.

Everyone has their limits for toleration of frustration and punishment. If you have given your project your best shot and you still have not realized your objective, well then, perhaps it’s time to make some Drastic Changes. I mean big time, earth shaking seismic changes. And no, it’s not itty-bitty inch by inch change. What it is…is big time, holy smoke changes.

Men and women at the top of any substantial venture in science, business, military, sports or what have you will tell you that oftentimes drastic change needs to be contemplated and acted upon.

Just look at the war in Iraq. Look at what’s happening over there right now. Super big time change is being acted out and contemplated both on the military and political side. For example, in some Iraqi provinces, Sunni militants who fought along side with the Al- Qaeda are now being nurtured and compensated by the U.S. Military . Subsequently, these Sunnis are now fighting with the U.S. against these Al-Qaeda groups. Desperate times require desperate measures.


Are you ready for seismic change? Then, let's kick it up! See the Rest of the Story

Thursday, August 23, 2007

 

Drink It Down, All Of It!

Are you ready to consume a super volatile high energy drink? Drink it down. It's a liquid that will drive you right straight to the stars and beyond? Maybe a drink of pure adrenalin. How about venturing into new Galaxies?

Good! Then you are my kind of person I am shooting for. Someone that will do “what it takes”. Like no pre-conditions!

Here’s what I am talking about.

If you are looking to turn the tide and make things happen big time for yourself, then, you are at the right place. In another words, if you have a stack of self-improvement books and cd’s in your room that keep telling you the “same old, same old”, then you are my man or women. Come on, drink it down!






Here are a few simple straight forward steps that will kick your career, love life, or whatever you are trying to change or improve into high gear.

I bet you wonder where I have been. Or, where have I been hiding my self? Forget about all of that, and just let’s concentrate on “right now”. Are you ready? Then let's drink it down.

Self-Imporvement mode?

First off, if you have been in the self-improvement mode for awhile, then, you need to get out of your rut. And, start thinking and looking at things differently. In another words, you need a new strong and dynamic Perspective, and “I can do it” perspective. A drink it down manner.

That’s right. What we are doing here is jumping right out in the middle of traffic and we are going to cross the street. Now! Right now. Forget about, what color the lights are or how heavy is the traffic flow. Just concentrate on getting to the other side of the street now. Let's go. Drink it down.

What's going on?

And as soon as we do that, you and I are going to jump in the river. No, forget about how deep it is or how cold it is. Just do it. Do it with me. Jump! Now that we are in it, lets take a deep breath and swim to the other side. Now that we are at the other side, let’s get out of the water, dry off, and then figure out WHAT’S GOING ON?

A short intermission

I give you a hint…here’s what is going on. Look at this as a short Intermission in your life. Nobody is going to know about this but you and I. Ok? Then, let's drink it down.

Now, let’s get down to brass tacks. If you want to be a take no prisoners, get down to it, kick butt, and make things happen kind of person, you need to get a grip, and envelope your self with a whole new Perspective.

A new perspective

You got it, start looking at life with dynamism and excitement. Why? Because you are shortly going to start getting some of that “good stuff” that life has so much of, for those folks that have “got over themselves” and have told Mr. Fear where to get off.

Here’s your new perspective

*Step # 1. Place yourself in a new environment. W-h-a-t? That’s right. Mentally, emotionally and spiritually. When you have completed this step, you will have also created and brand new comfort zone for yourself. One that is much bigger and better. At least for you it is. You may wish to get a new wardrobe which will make you feel better. A way of looking and acting that is more appropriate for the New You.

Be a risk taker

How so? Well, whether you know it or not, you are now a risk taker. Why is this good. Because, the more times you step up to the plate, the odds become more in your favor, that you are going to hit a home run or be successful.

The great thing about this ballgame is that it is the Ball Game Of Life, not just baseball. And, in the ballgame of life, people could care less how many times you miss the ball and strike. No body is counting…except you. The good news is you have gotten over yourself. You know you must keep swinging that bat in order to get a “hit”.


Get a grip

*Step #2. Get a grip and realize that all people are basically just like you. We all have the same wants, needs and fears. It is just a matter of degree and the way we go about meeting these needs that make us different. If anything else, this new perspective will give you new respect and interest in other people.

And, most rewardingly to you, people will respond to you in a very positive manner. Why? Because you will be genuine and authentic. Everybody likes these qualities in a person.

Goodbye Fear

The very devastating and inhibiting element of fear, will fly right out the window. No kidding. This perspective alone will free you up to make all kinds of wonderful and crazy new relationships with all kinds of people. Are you ready to "drink it down"?

Let’s face it. Your hopes, dreams and ambitions are too big for you to do it all alone.

(This series-Drink It All Down, All Of It-to be continued) Stand Great

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