Endless Potential Abound!!!

In my first post, I mentioned that I have a chronic, debilitating progressive neurological disease with the acronym MERRF. While I see 2 very smart and trustworthy specialists for the condition their opinion of how I'm doing versus mine are stark.  The problem for me is that they get a snapshot of me ever 6 months or so and I have an inner conversation multiple times a day. To hear the latest news "you're doing great" is not how I feel at all. My posts are generally not about me, this time however I'd like your input. Please email me with the subject WHEN DEFINITION MATTERS AT DBARSOOK@GMAIL.COM.   I'd Like to Know What You're Going Through.

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today." This ancient Chinese Proverb speaks volumes to me. The first time I heard the proverb I was in the car and I got the goose bumps.  There are 2 primary lessons we can draw. One, it is never too late to create beauty in the world. And, two, take hold of your own life and make the necessary changes to succeed whether that be spiritual, financial, or familial.  Today is so beautiful and those who make the most of each moment are the happiest and most well-off. All we can do is make the most out of each moment we have. If you plan your 2, 5, 10, and 20 year goals in life you only set yourself up for worry and anxiety. Let's control the present. I do think that everyone needs to set career goals or markers, but all you can really control is the here and now.  I have come to learn from my father that one shouldn't stress over uncontrollable circumstances.  Seek information from those in your ...

Each of us has to enjoy our days or we will not succeed. But, before taking a job, starting a new business, deciding to become a day trader, salesperson or whatever endeavor you set out for, it is of paramount importance for you to understand what makes you most happy. Do you crave a luxurious lifestyle, approval for a job well done, helping less fortunate individuals, or the physically / mentally handicapped? I know that I am a serial entrepreneur. In November 2014 my cousin's mom, also my cousin, was wearing a necklace and I remarked how nice it looked on her and the unusual pattern.  She mentioned that her son had maid it. The beginnings of a failed business was born. But, out of this we learned his talents are in computer design and logos, which we are currently pursuing.  I love the challenge of motivating an artist and running a business. I try not to complain. Rather, I seek advise when I don't have the answers. For me, it's not about the money. At least not f...

Do you wonder how some people are so"lucky" and get all the great, wonderful jobs, while others are always struggling to just get by and don't seem to be blessed.  It's not by accident.  While most of us spend our weekends and time after work with our friends relaxing those top individuals are forging relationships by attending conferences that interest them, volunteering for extra projects at their current companies, waking up early each morning so they can accomplish more during the day, and arranging meetings with superiors and people they would like to have in their inner circle. They say, "it's not what you know but who you know." Your true connections are so important in establishing where you go / end up in life.  If you call "Bob Smith" will he immediately call you back or return your email. Can they call you? Life is not a one way street. If you want to read an excellent book on building relationships, I recommend "Never Eat A...

How many of you reading this writing don't smile at or make small talk with your neighbors? Is it hard for you to understand the purpose of why you should get to know the names of the employees at your local pharmacy, a coffee shop you frequent more than once a week, or the cashiers' name at your local super market? There are a few reasons for doing so, and I'm not a preacher, nor a religious person, but I do no the importance of ethics and moral fortitude. I know karma is important. I DO NOT believe in karma because it implies that one expects to receive something for being good.  The number one skill successful individuals have is they don't expect anything. Success is hard work, period.  Nobody will hand you a large amount of money because you are a good person. The lesson is smile, be kind, go out of your way for others, in business and in life, and people are more likely to like you. There is a study out there that proves compassionate is contagious. Therefore,...

As 2015 brings new opportunity and potential, we need to seize what is in front of us. What is the point of bringing home a paycheck if it doesn't represent joy, hard work, pride, and what you love?  Entrepreneurs speak of their "ah ha" moment, which is when they realize a gap in the market and how they will fill it with their product or service.  This moment must be a dream for them.  However, many individuals young and old don't have these similar feelings because they are so dedicated to doing what is expected. As the economy is thriving in the United States, now is one of the greatest opportunities to make a career transformation. Don't get me wrong. I don't advocate quitting your job until you find the opportunity of your life. Or perhaps, you have the financial fortitude to create it for yourself. I find myself with my close friends week after week, and all they can talk about is the same thing; How much they hate their job!!! I want to yell 2 things...

How you define yourself is important to self confidence, character, and your reputation among peers.  So who are you? Often that question will come about at a dinner party, a date, a networking event, or a a party. But, a definition comes in many forms. Some people define themselves by their religion (I am a Christian, Muslim, or Jew), while others may define themselves by their career (a business owner, CEO, company they work for), and others look at their loved ones (husband/father, aunt or uncle etc...) It's important to your confidence, self worth, and general well being to understand who you are. You might be reading this thinking that it's easy to place a definition on something without truly meaning it. So, how does one implement a goal he or she has been wanting to change about themselves.  The answer may be that you do it through habit. Now, what do I mean? First, you define who you need to do. And then take small actions. Looking at athletes and seeing great qual...