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Mindset
“It is not our feet that moves us along. It is our minds” Chinese Proverb
June is a time of mixed emotions for students of the Upward Bound program, tucked away in the upper floors of Boys & Girls Harbor, Harlem, New York.
Here High School students come for college prep lessons. What they get is the most magical heart, mind, body make-over, performed by Program Director Ms. Crystal and her superbly talented team of life skill artists.
What’s waiting for the unsuspecting teen that enters the program and willingly stays two years or more?
Instantly their lives are filled with activities to develop confidence, self-control and self-esteem. They are put in the driver’s seat with clear directions to find a purpose for their life.
Somewhere between the English lessons and Math homework, they learn values. At first they may wonder, what are values? They learn why they need values. They learn how values build character. Perhaps the most profound lesson they learn, is to give willingly their service by helping others in need.
If you’re a teenager complete the following sentence. Teenagers are…
If you’re the parent/guardian of teenagers complete the following sentence. Teenagers are…
If you work with teenagers complete the following sentence. Teenagers are…
“Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.” Oliver Goldsmith
While the Pope’s visit to New York was historical, a few blocks from the gridlocked streets of Manhattan, two groups of students were getting ready for their own life changing adventures. One group was headed to New Orleans to help rebuilding efforts after hurricane Katrina devastated the region. The other group’s amazing journey of 9160 miles would take them to Eden Rock, a resort on the banks of the Nile, Southeast Uganda.
Goodbyes were said to anxious parents, hugs and kisses exchanged and then it was time to go.
The first leg of the trip started with the flight from New York’s JFK airport to Dubai, then a twelve hour lay-over. Next they would fly from Dubai to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and from there another flight to Entebbe, Uganda.
Ten days later a quietly subdued group huddled in the early morning sorting out their luggage and greeting happy parents. The traffic was light this early in the morning as we made our way home. Impatient to hear about his experience I turned to my son Crae in the back seat.
“So, how was your trip?”
“The girls fell in the river!” He burst out laughing as if he had been holding his breath under water. Sputtering and pounding the back seat, he laughed some more as he tried to explain.
“I sensed the danger even before the raft flipped over.”
“What happened? Was anyone hurt?”
“Oh man it happened so fast!”
“The girls were in another raft with Mr. Lee and I saw them heading for the swells”
“Paddle!” “ Paddle!” I screamed to Trent, “and I started paddling for my life!”
“The rapids were awesome!”
“What happened to the girls? “ I wanted to know.
“The plan was our raft would go down the swells.”
“The other raft with the girls would avoid the swells because some of them could not swim.”
“I saw them heading for trouble because they were not paddling.”
“A big wave pushed them into the swell and the raft went down.”
“As soon as it came back up they flipped over and everyone went flying!”
“One of the twins was shaking when she was fished out the water and Nicole was hit with a paddle, but they’re OK”
“When did this happen?” I asked.
“Friday was our last day, so we went rafting with Jessie. The whole trip was wonderful, but Friday was the best day ever!”
The work that Crae and his group did is a tiny fraction of what is needed to combat the malaria crisis. However, they felt satisfied knowing that the hundreds of nets distributed and the people that they met during their visit made a difference in their lives.
Do you have a mindset for helping other? Return to www.MentalTreasure.com
June is a time of mixed emotions for students of the Upward Bound program, tucked away in the upper floors of Boys & Girls Harbor, Harlem, New York.
Here High School students come for college prep lessons. What they get is the most magical heart, mind, body make-over, performed by Program Director Ms. Crystal and her superbly talented team of life skill artists.
What’s waiting for the unsuspecting teen that enters the program and willingly stays two years or more?
Instantly their lives are filled with activities to develop confidence, self-control and self-esteem. They are put in the driver’s seat with clear directions to find a purpose for their life.
Somewhere between the English lessons and Math homework, they learn values. At first they may wonder, what are values? They learn why they need values. They learn how values build character. Perhaps the most profound lesson they learn, is to give willingly their service by helping others in need.
If you’re a teenager complete the following sentence. Teenagers are…
If you’re the parent/guardian of teenagers complete the following sentence. Teenagers are…
If you work with teenagers complete the following sentence. Teenagers are…
“Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.” Oliver Goldsmith
While the Pope’s visit to New York was historical, a few blocks from the gridlocked streets of Manhattan, two groups of students were getting ready for their own life changing adventures. One group was headed to New Orleans to help rebuilding efforts after hurricane Katrina devastated the region. The other group’s amazing journey of 9160 miles would take them to Eden Rock, a resort on the banks of the Nile, Southeast Uganda.
Goodbyes were said to anxious parents, hugs and kisses exchanged and then it was time to go.
The first leg of the trip started with the flight from New York’s JFK airport to Dubai, then a twelve hour lay-over. Next they would fly from Dubai to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and from there another flight to Entebbe, Uganda.
Ten days later a quietly subdued group huddled in the early morning sorting out their luggage and greeting happy parents. The traffic was light this early in the morning as we made our way home. Impatient to hear about his experience I turned to my son Crae in the back seat.
“So, how was your trip?”
“The girls fell in the river!” He burst out laughing as if he had been holding his breath under water. Sputtering and pounding the back seat, he laughed some more as he tried to explain.
“I sensed the danger even before the raft flipped over.”
“What happened? Was anyone hurt?”
“Oh man it happened so fast!”
“The girls were in another raft with Mr. Lee and I saw them heading for the swells”
“Paddle!” “ Paddle!” I screamed to Trent, “and I started paddling for my life!”
“The rapids were awesome!”
“What happened to the girls? “ I wanted to know.
“The plan was our raft would go down the swells.”
“The other raft with the girls would avoid the swells because some of them could not swim.”
“I saw them heading for trouble because they were not paddling.”
“A big wave pushed them into the swell and the raft went down.”
“As soon as it came back up they flipped over and everyone went flying!”
“One of the twins was shaking when she was fished out the water and Nicole was hit with a paddle, but they’re OK”
“When did this happen?” I asked.
“Friday was our last day, so we went rafting with Jessie. The whole trip was wonderful, but Friday was the best day ever!”
The work that Crae and his group did is a tiny fraction of what is needed to combat the malaria crisis. However, they felt satisfied knowing that the hundreds of nets distributed and the people that they met during their visit made a difference in their lives.
Do you have a mindset for helping other? Return to www.MentalTreasure.com
Motivation
Do you know money isn’t the greatest motivator? You might think it is but it isn’t.
What is the greatest motivator?
Every Sunday evening millions of people gather in front of their TV’s to watch this highly rated news magazine show. While I was watching an interview with a notorious mobster I learned a simple yet profound secret people spend millions of dollars to find out.
The statement came like a thunder bolt, jolting me; I sat up with mouth wide open.
“He hated money…” Did I just hear that right? John Gotti Jr. just said that his father, ‘The Dabber Don’ known for his immaculate dress hated money! “...at the end of the day we are all going to jail, what’s he going to do with that money?”
If money is not the greatest motivator even for a mobster what is?
Perhaps one of the best examples of a great leader who devoted his life entirely to the service of a cause is Martin Luther King Jr. As one of America’s most eloquent speakers you can hear the ring of truth in his words today. First the question, followed by the answer.
“Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?”
“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”
This is what researchers studying the effects of volunteering have found “those who give support through volunteering, experience greater benefits than those who receive support”
The first time I met Jessie Stone it instantly became clear to me why my son was ‘fired-up’ about the trip to Uganda.
I could tell from the bits of conversation that other parents had questions and concerns about the trip.
“Where’s Uganda…is it safe to travel there?’ “Where are they going to stay…do you think it’s a hotel?" “What’s the weather like?”
The room shrank in size as more parents entered and squeezed into the last remaining seats. Students lined the walls at the back of the room.
Ms. Rosana and Ms. Sonia conducted the meeting, explaining what official documents like passport & visa, health certificate and immunization records would be needed, until Jessie arrived.
She wasn’t much taller than me with skin naturally tanned, a sign of someone who loves the out doors. Her story was fascinating. As you listen to her story of saving lives one village at a time, you’re reminded of the ‘Mustard Seed' parable.
Jessie is actually Dr. Jessie Stone a New Yorker, a medical doctor, and the founder of Soft Power Health Organization a non-profit she started several years ago. Today she wears many hats dividing her time between Kayaking thrills on the Rouge River, Oregon, to Rafting spills on the Nile River, Uganda; Jessie is responsible for changing the lives of thousands of people.
Why Uganda?
Uganda is Jessie’s favorite place in Africa because of “the beautiful countryside, the warmth and honesty of the people, and the incredible whitewater kayaking”
Why Africa?
Kayaking has taken her all over the world and her passion for helping others especially children drew her to Uganda, Africa, where she witnessed the terrible death of one of her guides by Malaria.
Saving lives through education and prevention is what Jessie has been doing since she started a clinic in Uganda. You only have to look at the impressive numbers of nets sold, the growth of her local staff and excited volunteers to appreciate the impact of her work.
Every year 350 people in Uganda die from Malaria, an illness caused by Mosquitoes. Most of the deaths are children under 3 years old. The real tragedy is these deaths can be prevented by using mosquito nets, a low cost, low tech, and simple solution.
At the end of the hour-long meeting all the questions were answered. Parents collected documents and forms to sign. The students whose parents gave them the green light for the trip were in groups excitedly whispering and planning.
The weeks flew by for parents and students of Upward Bound as they threw themselves into preparing for the trip. With growing enthusiasm and commitment the combined efforts of parents and students working together raised almost $4000 to buy mosquito nets.
What are you motivated to do? And who are you motivated to help? Return to www.MentalTreasure.com .
What is the greatest motivator?
Every Sunday evening millions of people gather in front of their TV’s to watch this highly rated news magazine show. While I was watching an interview with a notorious mobster I learned a simple yet profound secret people spend millions of dollars to find out.
The statement came like a thunder bolt, jolting me; I sat up with mouth wide open.
“He hated money…” Did I just hear that right? John Gotti Jr. just said that his father, ‘The Dabber Don’ known for his immaculate dress hated money! “...at the end of the day we are all going to jail, what’s he going to do with that money?”
If money is not the greatest motivator even for a mobster what is?
Perhaps one of the best examples of a great leader who devoted his life entirely to the service of a cause is Martin Luther King Jr. As one of America’s most eloquent speakers you can hear the ring of truth in his words today. First the question, followed by the answer.
“Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?”
“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”
This is what researchers studying the effects of volunteering have found “those who give support through volunteering, experience greater benefits than those who receive support”
The first time I met Jessie Stone it instantly became clear to me why my son was ‘fired-up’ about the trip to Uganda.
I could tell from the bits of conversation that other parents had questions and concerns about the trip.
“Where’s Uganda…is it safe to travel there?’ “Where are they going to stay…do you think it’s a hotel?" “What’s the weather like?”
The room shrank in size as more parents entered and squeezed into the last remaining seats. Students lined the walls at the back of the room.
Ms. Rosana and Ms. Sonia conducted the meeting, explaining what official documents like passport & visa, health certificate and immunization records would be needed, until Jessie arrived.
She wasn’t much taller than me with skin naturally tanned, a sign of someone who loves the out doors. Her story was fascinating. As you listen to her story of saving lives one village at a time, you’re reminded of the ‘Mustard Seed' parable.
Jessie is actually Dr. Jessie Stone a New Yorker, a medical doctor, and the founder of Soft Power Health Organization a non-profit she started several years ago. Today she wears many hats dividing her time between Kayaking thrills on the Rouge River, Oregon, to Rafting spills on the Nile River, Uganda; Jessie is responsible for changing the lives of thousands of people.
Why Uganda?
Uganda is Jessie’s favorite place in Africa because of “the beautiful countryside, the warmth and honesty of the people, and the incredible whitewater kayaking”
Why Africa?
Kayaking has taken her all over the world and her passion for helping others especially children drew her to Uganda, Africa, where she witnessed the terrible death of one of her guides by Malaria.
Saving lives through education and prevention is what Jessie has been doing since she started a clinic in Uganda. You only have to look at the impressive numbers of nets sold, the growth of her local staff and excited volunteers to appreciate the impact of her work.
Every year 350 people in Uganda die from Malaria, an illness caused by Mosquitoes. Most of the deaths are children under 3 years old. The real tragedy is these deaths can be prevented by using mosquito nets, a low cost, low tech, and simple solution.
At the end of the hour-long meeting all the questions were answered. Parents collected documents and forms to sign. The students whose parents gave them the green light for the trip were in groups excitedly whispering and planning.
The weeks flew by for parents and students of Upward Bound as they threw themselves into preparing for the trip. With growing enthusiasm and commitment the combined efforts of parents and students working together raised almost $4000 to buy mosquito nets.
What are you motivated to do? And who are you motivated to help? Return to www.MentalTreasure.com .
Plan
“A good plan is like a roadmap: it shows the final destination and usually the best way to get there.” H. Stanley Judd
Are you who you say you are?
I didn’t know who Geoffrey Canada was when he stood up to speak. After the first sixty seconds it didn’t matter. I was hooked. His rich baritone voice and engaging smile had my undivided attention.
Months later, seeing him on various shows like Oprah and 60 Minutes, I remembered this one sentence that he put in context during the speech he delivered at the conference, “We have to change the message we give our children…my Mother said you had to eat everything on your plate because she was afraid we would starve to death.”
He clearly understood a mother’s concerns for her children can cause confusion and mixed messages. However, negative behavior patterns should not be repeated or passed from one generation to the next. This is easier said than done.
You may wonder about the few success stories that get attention from the news or media coverage. A true ‘rags to riches’ story was told in the movie “The Blind Side”. In the search for answers, the place to start; to solve the problems of childhood obesity, low graduation rates, failing schools, drugs, crime, violence, rising teen pregnancies and a laundry list of issues is to break the cycle of behavior.
Eleven year old Geoffrey made a promise to himself. One day he would help poor kids like the ones he grew up with in his community. But defeating the twin dragons; poverty and crime is a job for the superheroes with their superhero powers you might think. Geoffrey was no superhero yet. He was the youngest of four boys raised by a hard working single mother in Bronx, New York.
Just imagine, years later an adult Geoffrey actually has superpowers. Can you see him as the brilliant leader, fearlessly battling the forces of evil lurking like school yard bullies? Who stalk and attack the poor, weak, and defenseless. With his superpowers, he challenges a whole school system, housing project or neighborhood if necessary. Nothing will stop his mission to prove that poor children, can succeed, achieve good reading and math grades, good graduation rates in large numbers.
Many years later Geoffrey Canada returned to Harlem to make good his childhood promise. He is the CEO & President of The Harlem Children’s Zone a non-profit organization that targets children and families living in poverty. His promise became an amazingly successful 10-year business plan. He implemented his vision to save more than 8,000 children and 6,000 adults in a100-block area of Harlem. His innovative ideas to combine health needs, social services, exercise, academics and a host of other services at one site has lead to spectacular success stories.
His work was mentioned in a speech by Mr. Obama during his presidential campaign.
“There’s no reason this program should stop at the end of those blocks in Harlem. It’s time to change the odds for neighborhoods all across America.”
The great social experiment, now a proven success has been chosen by the President as a model to be replicated across America.
How do you see yourself? What are the things most important to you? Return to www.MentalTreasure.com
Are you who you say you are?
I didn’t know who Geoffrey Canada was when he stood up to speak. After the first sixty seconds it didn’t matter. I was hooked. His rich baritone voice and engaging smile had my undivided attention.
Months later, seeing him on various shows like Oprah and 60 Minutes, I remembered this one sentence that he put in context during the speech he delivered at the conference, “We have to change the message we give our children…my Mother said you had to eat everything on your plate because she was afraid we would starve to death.”
He clearly understood a mother’s concerns for her children can cause confusion and mixed messages. However, negative behavior patterns should not be repeated or passed from one generation to the next. This is easier said than done.
You may wonder about the few success stories that get attention from the news or media coverage. A true ‘rags to riches’ story was told in the movie “The Blind Side”. In the search for answers, the place to start; to solve the problems of childhood obesity, low graduation rates, failing schools, drugs, crime, violence, rising teen pregnancies and a laundry list of issues is to break the cycle of behavior.
Eleven year old Geoffrey made a promise to himself. One day he would help poor kids like the ones he grew up with in his community. But defeating the twin dragons; poverty and crime is a job for the superheroes with their superhero powers you might think. Geoffrey was no superhero yet. He was the youngest of four boys raised by a hard working single mother in Bronx, New York.
Just imagine, years later an adult Geoffrey actually has superpowers. Can you see him as the brilliant leader, fearlessly battling the forces of evil lurking like school yard bullies? Who stalk and attack the poor, weak, and defenseless. With his superpowers, he challenges a whole school system, housing project or neighborhood if necessary. Nothing will stop his mission to prove that poor children, can succeed, achieve good reading and math grades, good graduation rates in large numbers.
Many years later Geoffrey Canada returned to Harlem to make good his childhood promise. He is the CEO & President of The Harlem Children’s Zone a non-profit organization that targets children and families living in poverty. His promise became an amazingly successful 10-year business plan. He implemented his vision to save more than 8,000 children and 6,000 adults in a100-block area of Harlem. His innovative ideas to combine health needs, social services, exercise, academics and a host of other services at one site has lead to spectacular success stories.
His work was mentioned in a speech by Mr. Obama during his presidential campaign.
“There’s no reason this program should stop at the end of those blocks in Harlem. It’s time to change the odds for neighborhoods all across America.”
The great social experiment, now a proven success has been chosen by the President as a model to be replicated across America.
How do you see yourself? What are the things most important to you? Return to www.MentalTreasure.com
Process
“The beauty of empowering others is that your own power is not diminished in the process.” Barbara Colorose
A hum of activity came from the other side of the door. Opening the door I caught Alice in mid-stride as she ran out the side exit, tossing her long black hair over her shoulder.
Laughter and applause came from the room packed with children and a few parents. I walked in on the closing scene of the Alice In Wonderland skit. The performance was part of the Mad Hatters Tea Party hosted by Cynthia, founder of Ladies of the Silver Tea.
Scanning the room I saw Cynthia busy with her helpers, getting ready to serve Tea (ice-tea in warm weather) and cookies to the restless yet eager children.
When it comes to teaching History and Culture or even classic stories Cynthia’s approach is unique. She expertly blends her love and passion for Tea with a sense of service to her community. Her devotion to community service she says came from her parents. You may wonder what Tea has to do with teaching History or Culture.
Cynthia’s special talent lies in creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere where children and adults are guests. Sitting at cozy tables decorated with linen table cloths and a vase of lovely flowers in the center. Now Cynthia feeds the body with aromatic tea, warm buttery biscuits and other mouth watering treats.
After the last crumbs disappear she captures your attention and feeds the hungry mind with lessons, experiences and explanations. This is how she creates a Southern Tea experience you remember and treasure.
Apparently a recent study revealed a secret source of happiness, joy and youthful vitality that only dedicated volunteers like Cynthia knew about. What experts found is that you get huge rewards from unselfish or voluntary giving.
Imagine hearing your name mentioned in a speech by First Lady Michelle Obama. This was the case for the graduation class of George Washington University, when they were challenged by the first Lady to complete 100,000 hours of community service in nine months and she would speak at their commencement. The challenge was accepted and completed.
In her speech Mrs. Obama spoke of the contributions the students made and the responses she received from people who were helped. As she put it, “And for every act of service that you performed for the community here in D.C., you committed yourselves to serving the greater global community, as well.”
Experts say research over the past 20 years shows that volunteering provides life saving benefits to the mind and body. Here are some of their findings:
“Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. It's important to the person who serves as well as the recipient. It's the way in which we ourselves grow and develop.”
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
A hum of activity came from the other side of the door. Opening the door I caught Alice in mid-stride as she ran out the side exit, tossing her long black hair over her shoulder.
Laughter and applause came from the room packed with children and a few parents. I walked in on the closing scene of the Alice In Wonderland skit. The performance was part of the Mad Hatters Tea Party hosted by Cynthia, founder of Ladies of the Silver Tea.
Scanning the room I saw Cynthia busy with her helpers, getting ready to serve Tea (ice-tea in warm weather) and cookies to the restless yet eager children.
When it comes to teaching History and Culture or even classic stories Cynthia’s approach is unique. She expertly blends her love and passion for Tea with a sense of service to her community. Her devotion to community service she says came from her parents. You may wonder what Tea has to do with teaching History or Culture.
Cynthia’s special talent lies in creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere where children and adults are guests. Sitting at cozy tables decorated with linen table cloths and a vase of lovely flowers in the center. Now Cynthia feeds the body with aromatic tea, warm buttery biscuits and other mouth watering treats.
After the last crumbs disappear she captures your attention and feeds the hungry mind with lessons, experiences and explanations. This is how she creates a Southern Tea experience you remember and treasure.
Apparently a recent study revealed a secret source of happiness, joy and youthful vitality that only dedicated volunteers like Cynthia knew about. What experts found is that you get huge rewards from unselfish or voluntary giving.
Imagine hearing your name mentioned in a speech by First Lady Michelle Obama. This was the case for the graduation class of George Washington University, when they were challenged by the first Lady to complete 100,000 hours of community service in nine months and she would speak at their commencement. The challenge was accepted and completed.
In her speech Mrs. Obama spoke of the contributions the students made and the responses she received from people who were helped. As she put it, “And for every act of service that you performed for the community here in D.C., you committed yourselves to serving the greater global community, as well.”
Experts say research over the past 20 years shows that volunteering provides life saving benefits to the mind and body. Here are some of their findings:
- Lower death rate for seniors who volunteer.
- Less cases of depression.
- Increased mental functions.
- Find purpose and fulfillment by giving service.
- Engaged in more social and physical activities.
- Talents and experience used to solve social problems.
“Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. It's important to the person who serves as well as the recipient. It's the way in which we ourselves grow and develop.”
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Time is Free
“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back.” Harvey Mackay
Time is a tool for living, how do you use your time?
The title ‘Fitness Czar’ in the news story caught my attention. It read, “Body Sculpt founder and President was chosen to serve as the ‘New York City Fitness Czar’”. I read it again smiling, because the story was about Vincent Ferguson who I’d met a few years ago.
You’re thinking, what’s a Czar?
This is the meaning: an autocratic ruler or leader. (2) Any person exercising great authority or power in a particular field: a czar of industry.
Vince as he likes to be called was one of the vendors at the Obesity Summit, held in Harlem, NY a few years ago. My friend Jackie met him and introduced him to me. We loved his fitness program and found ourselves agreeing with each critical point he made. We invited him to speak at our monthly Fitness, Health & Wealth workshop.
Vince gladly accepted, presenting his dream and vision of saving thousands of kids and their parents by helping them adopt physical fitness as a lifestyle. At that time he was planning his 4th Sports Fitness Expo and we joined his band of merry volunteers.
The problem Vince decided to tackle was childhood obesity. Long before obesity made the headlines he saw that the children in his neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY were unhealthy due to lack of exercise and poor nutrition.
The statistics from the NYC Department of Health show 42% of pre-school children and 43% of elementary school children are overweight. The shocking truth is since 2000, one in three children born in the US will get diabetes, shortening how long they live by three to five years.
Why did Vince take on such a huge problem?
Actually it’s a mission worthy of his talents and skills as an ex US Navy service man, a certified personal trainer and author of several books on fitness. His example of compassion and a do-it-yourself approach to solving community problems is a surprisingly growing trend.
Americans are finding and experiencing more rewards in volunteering with the support of First Lady Michelle Obama.
“In this time of economic distress, we need service and volunteering more than ever to build a new foundation for growth,” First Lady Michelle Obama.
According to the latest report on volunteering, people are responding in record numbers, to solving the problems they see around them, caused by financial hardship. They are giving their time in service if they can’t afford to give money. In 2008 61.8 million Americans volunteered through an organization, this is up by one million from the previous year. America’s volunteers dedicated more than 8 billion hours of service in 2008, worth an estimated $162 billion.
www.VolunteeringInAmerica.gov
Do you know most Americans working a regular job don’t think they earn enough to save for retirement? What are the benefits of volunteering your time for unpaid work?
The message from Vince is simple and clear. Stopping the rise of childhood obesity was a call to action for him. The problem was urgent enough for him to put up his own money and started his non profit organization.
What could be more rewarding than seeing the wide-eye delight of children learning a new sport or watching shyly from the side lines until they got up enough courage to try it for themselves? Hearing their squeals of laughter as they discover running, jumping and playing is fun.
While the thought of yet another working day for most Americans is greeted with groans and moans, Vince’s days are incredibly satisfying, rewarding and fulfilling. And so yes he works a regular job as well. Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Time is a tool for living, how do you use your time?
The title ‘Fitness Czar’ in the news story caught my attention. It read, “Body Sculpt founder and President was chosen to serve as the ‘New York City Fitness Czar’”. I read it again smiling, because the story was about Vincent Ferguson who I’d met a few years ago.
You’re thinking, what’s a Czar?
This is the meaning: an autocratic ruler or leader. (2) Any person exercising great authority or power in a particular field: a czar of industry.
Vince as he likes to be called was one of the vendors at the Obesity Summit, held in Harlem, NY a few years ago. My friend Jackie met him and introduced him to me. We loved his fitness program and found ourselves agreeing with each critical point he made. We invited him to speak at our monthly Fitness, Health & Wealth workshop.
Vince gladly accepted, presenting his dream and vision of saving thousands of kids and their parents by helping them adopt physical fitness as a lifestyle. At that time he was planning his 4th Sports Fitness Expo and we joined his band of merry volunteers.
The problem Vince decided to tackle was childhood obesity. Long before obesity made the headlines he saw that the children in his neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY were unhealthy due to lack of exercise and poor nutrition.
The statistics from the NYC Department of Health show 42% of pre-school children and 43% of elementary school children are overweight. The shocking truth is since 2000, one in three children born in the US will get diabetes, shortening how long they live by three to five years.
Why did Vince take on such a huge problem?
Actually it’s a mission worthy of his talents and skills as an ex US Navy service man, a certified personal trainer and author of several books on fitness. His example of compassion and a do-it-yourself approach to solving community problems is a surprisingly growing trend.
Americans are finding and experiencing more rewards in volunteering with the support of First Lady Michelle Obama.
“In this time of economic distress, we need service and volunteering more than ever to build a new foundation for growth,” First Lady Michelle Obama.
According to the latest report on volunteering, people are responding in record numbers, to solving the problems they see around them, caused by financial hardship. They are giving their time in service if they can’t afford to give money. In 2008 61.8 million Americans volunteered through an organization, this is up by one million from the previous year. America’s volunteers dedicated more than 8 billion hours of service in 2008, worth an estimated $162 billion.
www.VolunteeringInAmerica.gov
Do you know most Americans working a regular job don’t think they earn enough to save for retirement? What are the benefits of volunteering your time for unpaid work?
The message from Vince is simple and clear. Stopping the rise of childhood obesity was a call to action for him. The problem was urgent enough for him to put up his own money and started his non profit organization.
What could be more rewarding than seeing the wide-eye delight of children learning a new sport or watching shyly from the side lines until they got up enough courage to try it for themselves? Hearing their squeals of laughter as they discover running, jumping and playing is fun.
While the thought of yet another working day for most Americans is greeted with groans and moans, Vince’s days are incredibly satisfying, rewarding and fulfilling. And so yes he works a regular job as well. Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Change Direction
“The difference between school and life? In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson.” Tom Bodett
When it comes to teaching life lessons, have parents been replaced by technology? How do you learn life’s most important lessons?
Recently my friend Maria and I were talking about the joys and challenges of raising children. One of the challenges many parents face is how to teach teenagers to balance the use of technology.
“When I was young I did not have all these fancy gadgets or toys,” Maria said.
“My daughter is in middle school and she is a wiz on the computer. I’m amazed at how easily she has learned to build a website and use social media to connect with friends. However, what I noticed is, there are a lot of kids who are creative and have talents but technology is suppressing their creativity.”
“I agree, over use of technology doesn’t allow our teenagers to develop their ‘thinking muscle’. Look at GPS. Do you know it can send you in the wrong direction or you can end up lost?”
Have you ever got lost using your GPS? The shockingly surprising lesson many drivers learn is that you can get lost even with directions from your GPS. Why? As it turns out a GPS is no substitute for your knowledge, skills and experience.
Let’s face it we live in a world where we depend on more technology to support our daily activities. But putting your faith only in a technical device is a big mistake as one 20 year old student in England did. Her car was wrecked because the GPS directed her onto a railway track right in the path of a speeding train.
Most people get lost once, twice or more and learn from their mistakes. You laugh at yourself and learn what you need to learn. It’s not funny anymore, now that more and more people are getting into serious accidents because their GPS directs then onto train tracks, a dead end street, or worse.
Even if you don’t have GPS now, the technology will soon be available in many products that everyone uses daily. There is no denying when GPS works like it was intended to it simplifies your life. It saves time by helping you get to your destination with step-by-step directions or an easy to follow map.
The problem with your GPS isn’t so much about following directions. Although following directions is one of the first lessons we’re taught at an early age.
The most common mistake we make why we get lost is following the wrong information.
After my conversation with Maria I thought about the movie “The Bucket List” starring two giants in the industry Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, it makes you laugh while tackling difficult topics.
Before watching the movie, I naturally thought it was about two old men facing death and wishing they could do more. So I popped it in the DVD and sat down to watch it again.
Most of the movie tells of the budding friendship between these two men. Morgan Freeman’s character Carter is a mechanic who wanted to be a Historian but lost his dream because he was poor and started a family early. Jack Nicholson plays Edward a billionaire who is a loser at life in spite of all his money. He has been divorced four times and has no one who cares about him. The two men end up together sharing a room in a hospital because they both have lung cancer.
If you’ve seen the movie you‘ll remember they make a list of all the wild and crazy things they would like to do before they die and set out on a trip around the world. Each time they do something on the list they cross off the item.
The most touching and tug-at-your-heart-strings scene is towards the end of the movie. Carter thought it would be nice for Edward to re-unite with his daughter but he wasn’t ready. However after Carter dies Edward visits his daughter and finds out he also has a granddaughter.
Carter’s cancer goes into remission. However his life wasn’t the same once he was reunited with his daughter and granddaughter. He found joy in life, something he didn’t have before, even though he was a billionaire.
It was surprising to see “Find Your Joy in Life” was the last item on the list.
Do you learn life lessons by trial and error? Have you found your joy in life?
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
When it comes to teaching life lessons, have parents been replaced by technology? How do you learn life’s most important lessons?
Recently my friend Maria and I were talking about the joys and challenges of raising children. One of the challenges many parents face is how to teach teenagers to balance the use of technology.
“When I was young I did not have all these fancy gadgets or toys,” Maria said.
“My daughter is in middle school and she is a wiz on the computer. I’m amazed at how easily she has learned to build a website and use social media to connect with friends. However, what I noticed is, there are a lot of kids who are creative and have talents but technology is suppressing their creativity.”
“I agree, over use of technology doesn’t allow our teenagers to develop their ‘thinking muscle’. Look at GPS. Do you know it can send you in the wrong direction or you can end up lost?”
Have you ever got lost using your GPS? The shockingly surprising lesson many drivers learn is that you can get lost even with directions from your GPS. Why? As it turns out a GPS is no substitute for your knowledge, skills and experience.
Let’s face it we live in a world where we depend on more technology to support our daily activities. But putting your faith only in a technical device is a big mistake as one 20 year old student in England did. Her car was wrecked because the GPS directed her onto a railway track right in the path of a speeding train.
Most people get lost once, twice or more and learn from their mistakes. You laugh at yourself and learn what you need to learn. It’s not funny anymore, now that more and more people are getting into serious accidents because their GPS directs then onto train tracks, a dead end street, or worse.
Even if you don’t have GPS now, the technology will soon be available in many products that everyone uses daily. There is no denying when GPS works like it was intended to it simplifies your life. It saves time by helping you get to your destination with step-by-step directions or an easy to follow map.
The problem with your GPS isn’t so much about following directions. Although following directions is one of the first lessons we’re taught at an early age.
The most common mistake we make why we get lost is following the wrong information.
After my conversation with Maria I thought about the movie “The Bucket List” starring two giants in the industry Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, it makes you laugh while tackling difficult topics.
Before watching the movie, I naturally thought it was about two old men facing death and wishing they could do more. So I popped it in the DVD and sat down to watch it again.
Most of the movie tells of the budding friendship between these two men. Morgan Freeman’s character Carter is a mechanic who wanted to be a Historian but lost his dream because he was poor and started a family early. Jack Nicholson plays Edward a billionaire who is a loser at life in spite of all his money. He has been divorced four times and has no one who cares about him. The two men end up together sharing a room in a hospital because they both have lung cancer.
If you’ve seen the movie you‘ll remember they make a list of all the wild and crazy things they would like to do before they die and set out on a trip around the world. Each time they do something on the list they cross off the item.
The most touching and tug-at-your-heart-strings scene is towards the end of the movie. Carter thought it would be nice for Edward to re-unite with his daughter but he wasn’t ready. However after Carter dies Edward visits his daughter and finds out he also has a granddaughter.
Carter’s cancer goes into remission. However his life wasn’t the same once he was reunited with his daughter and granddaughter. He found joy in life, something he didn’t have before, even though he was a billionaire.
It was surprising to see “Find Your Joy in Life” was the last item on the list.
Do you learn life lessons by trial and error? Have you found your joy in life?
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Are you educated for success?
“The key to success is often the ability to adapt” Author Unknown
Are you educated for success? Traditional jobs have changed, disappearing like snow in the desert.
No matter how eager you are to work, you might not find the job that fits your skills if your education was based on the old narrowly focused system used for the last 100 years. Even if you have a college degree, you may find yourself struggling to understand the demands of the new workplace. The ‘Good Job’ quietly went away and you’re now wondering how will I make a living and pay-off the cost of going to college?
Remember when you were in high school? What subjects or classes did you really enjoy? Did you take the classes you thought would lead to the career or profession you wanted?
Betty was supremely confident. She knew the answer to the question her father asked, “What do you want to be?”
Without hesitation she answered from her heart having dreamed about what she would do when she grew up. She wanted to design buildings and bridges. She was fascinated with the art and design of buildings. She couldn’t wait to see her creations come alive.
“I want to be an Architect”, Betty replied. Then like a thunder storm on a clear summer’s day her confidence was shattered, her body and mind drenched in doubt.
“You can’t be an Architect, you can be a Nurse or Teacher” her father said without further explanation.
In the 1970’s only about 14% of American adults over 25 had a bachelor’s degree. A good job was based on training to use mass production technology. The jobs were high paying but unskilled and started disappearing as technology improved.
Betty knew a college degree was regarded as a major accomplishment and a sign of success. College graduates could look forward to living in prosperous communities; enjoy travel, sports and entertainment. This was her dream to be in control of her financial destiny, meet the person she could have a lasting and loving relationship with, and enjoy the freedoms America promised.
Betty’s dream was too important to give up. And so she went to a technical drawing class she knew was essential for Architecture.
In the space of a few minutes lightening struck Betty’s world yet again when the teacher singled her out in the class and said, ”you must be in the wrong classroom”.
“No, I want to be an Architect” Betty replied.
When it comes to education where most people make the mistake is not thinking how their natural talents will match their career choice.
What skills are needed to be successful in the information age? Thirty years ago Betty had the talents employers are looking for today.
Gloriously dazzling in gold and white, Betty was glowing as she walked to the podium to open the evening’s event and introduce the honorees. Betty is an Author of Children’s books which she also illustrates and self-publishes.
Betty has found success doing the things she loves and working with others who share her values. She has been building bridges of communication to pass on cultural and historical lessons to the next generation. She has even updated her technology skills as necessary. For example she merges social media, with old fashion notes & cards to send out invitations or announcements.
Can you name five personal strengths that will help you do-well in this economy? Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Are you educated for success? Traditional jobs have changed, disappearing like snow in the desert.
No matter how eager you are to work, you might not find the job that fits your skills if your education was based on the old narrowly focused system used for the last 100 years. Even if you have a college degree, you may find yourself struggling to understand the demands of the new workplace. The ‘Good Job’ quietly went away and you’re now wondering how will I make a living and pay-off the cost of going to college?
Remember when you were in high school? What subjects or classes did you really enjoy? Did you take the classes you thought would lead to the career or profession you wanted?
Betty was supremely confident. She knew the answer to the question her father asked, “What do you want to be?”
Without hesitation she answered from her heart having dreamed about what she would do when she grew up. She wanted to design buildings and bridges. She was fascinated with the art and design of buildings. She couldn’t wait to see her creations come alive.
“I want to be an Architect”, Betty replied. Then like a thunder storm on a clear summer’s day her confidence was shattered, her body and mind drenched in doubt.
“You can’t be an Architect, you can be a Nurse or Teacher” her father said without further explanation.
In the 1970’s only about 14% of American adults over 25 had a bachelor’s degree. A good job was based on training to use mass production technology. The jobs were high paying but unskilled and started disappearing as technology improved.
Betty knew a college degree was regarded as a major accomplishment and a sign of success. College graduates could look forward to living in prosperous communities; enjoy travel, sports and entertainment. This was her dream to be in control of her financial destiny, meet the person she could have a lasting and loving relationship with, and enjoy the freedoms America promised.
Betty’s dream was too important to give up. And so she went to a technical drawing class she knew was essential for Architecture.
In the space of a few minutes lightening struck Betty’s world yet again when the teacher singled her out in the class and said, ”you must be in the wrong classroom”.
“No, I want to be an Architect” Betty replied.
When it comes to education where most people make the mistake is not thinking how their natural talents will match their career choice.
What skills are needed to be successful in the information age? Thirty years ago Betty had the talents employers are looking for today.
- Workers today must be adaptable and be able to work in teams.
- Workers today must be creative and responsible to solve problems.
- Workers today must be able to communicate by: speaking, listening, reading & writing
- Workers today must have these personal qualities or good character: Responsibility, self-esteem, honesty, integrity & social self-management.
Gloriously dazzling in gold and white, Betty was glowing as she walked to the podium to open the evening’s event and introduce the honorees. Betty is an Author of Children’s books which she also illustrates and self-publishes.
Betty has found success doing the things she loves and working with others who share her values. She has been building bridges of communication to pass on cultural and historical lessons to the next generation. She has even updated her technology skills as necessary. For example she merges social media, with old fashion notes & cards to send out invitations or announcements.
Can you name five personal strengths that will help you do-well in this economy? Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Why is your Mental Treasure important?
The first place to start is figuring out what value your Mental Treasure adds to your life. What are you missing by not using your Mental Treasure?
If you’re currently in the ranks of the unemployed or under-employed due to shifts in the economy, you may be wondering, “What has my college degree done for me lately?”
The problem is not entirely your fault. Creativity expert Sir Ken Robinson explains the source of your pain lies in part in the education system.
“Today’s problem is the declining value of a college degree. A college degree was once a passport to a good job…now at best it’s a Visa. Students leaving college now are no longer guaranteed a job in the field for which they maybe qualified.” Sir Ken Robinson
A Sweet Solution
Angela Logan a 55 year old mother, dancer, actress, should have been a success by anybody’s standard. Her story represents millions of people who lost jobs and suffered terrible hardship because of the recession. When she could not get any acting jobs her financial and personal problems quickly became one big mess.
What was Angela missing? Angela did not have the ability to control her income and her destiny. In spite of all her work experience and skills Angela Logan found herself in a desperate race against time to save her home from foreclosure. As a last resort, Angela came up with the idea to sell her famously moist apple cakes to her church members and classmates. Her goal was to sell 100 cakes at $40.00 each in ten days in order to meet the banks deadline and save her New Jersey home.
Angela's wild idea was a success, much more than she could have anticipated. Her story was reported in the local news and spread quickly around the country. Orders came pouring in, as much as 600 in a few days. This created new challenges and introduced her to new people with solutions that supported Angela’s efforts and took her in a new direction.
When local town ordinance forbid her from baking in her kitchen the management team at the local Hilton Hotel offered her the use of one of their kitchens. The next hurdle was getting cakes to customers in places like Canada and California. Again, a company touched by Angela's story stepped in. Angela was offered a joint venture business agreement with Bake Me A Wish an online company. This allowed her to use the company’s plant for her baking, while managing orders and shipping would be done through the website.
"It's something like a fairy tale," Angela Logan said. "It's like a wish come true."
Use your Mental Treasure for an extraordinary life.
Finding your Mental Treasure is essential to discovering what you can really do and who you really are. Far too many people spend their life working just for a paycheck. If they are lucky they retire and then discover something they are passionate about. When others die their talents and dreams die with them.
Your Mental Treasure is not like a four year college degree which career experts say has declined in value in the current job market due to an over supply or too many graduates competing for too few jobs. The education-for-job problem is expected to grow. According to results from an annual survey of freshmen, experts found, more students plan to get a masters’ degree in hopes of getting a good job. (Higher Education Research Institute, 2008)
The good news is you have the tools, the resources and the formula to effectively change your life now.
“Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which, in prosperous circumstances, would have lain dormant.” Aristotle
Apply your Mental Treasure list as a guide to evaluate your job. Are you working and getting paid to use your best talents and skills? Does your career choice match-up with your inner-most abilities? Apply your Mental Treasure list to help you pick classes, college majors, internships, volunteering and community service projects.
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
If you’re currently in the ranks of the unemployed or under-employed due to shifts in the economy, you may be wondering, “What has my college degree done for me lately?”
The problem is not entirely your fault. Creativity expert Sir Ken Robinson explains the source of your pain lies in part in the education system.
“Today’s problem is the declining value of a college degree. A college degree was once a passport to a good job…now at best it’s a Visa. Students leaving college now are no longer guaranteed a job in the field for which they maybe qualified.” Sir Ken Robinson
A Sweet Solution
Angela Logan a 55 year old mother, dancer, actress, should have been a success by anybody’s standard. Her story represents millions of people who lost jobs and suffered terrible hardship because of the recession. When she could not get any acting jobs her financial and personal problems quickly became one big mess.
What was Angela missing? Angela did not have the ability to control her income and her destiny. In spite of all her work experience and skills Angela Logan found herself in a desperate race against time to save her home from foreclosure. As a last resort, Angela came up with the idea to sell her famously moist apple cakes to her church members and classmates. Her goal was to sell 100 cakes at $40.00 each in ten days in order to meet the banks deadline and save her New Jersey home.
Angela's wild idea was a success, much more than she could have anticipated. Her story was reported in the local news and spread quickly around the country. Orders came pouring in, as much as 600 in a few days. This created new challenges and introduced her to new people with solutions that supported Angela’s efforts and took her in a new direction.
When local town ordinance forbid her from baking in her kitchen the management team at the local Hilton Hotel offered her the use of one of their kitchens. The next hurdle was getting cakes to customers in places like Canada and California. Again, a company touched by Angela's story stepped in. Angela was offered a joint venture business agreement with Bake Me A Wish an online company. This allowed her to use the company’s plant for her baking, while managing orders and shipping would be done through the website.
"It's something like a fairy tale," Angela Logan said. "It's like a wish come true."
Use your Mental Treasure for an extraordinary life.
Finding your Mental Treasure is essential to discovering what you can really do and who you really are. Far too many people spend their life working just for a paycheck. If they are lucky they retire and then discover something they are passionate about. When others die their talents and dreams die with them.
Your Mental Treasure is not like a four year college degree which career experts say has declined in value in the current job market due to an over supply or too many graduates competing for too few jobs. The education-for-job problem is expected to grow. According to results from an annual survey of freshmen, experts found, more students plan to get a masters’ degree in hopes of getting a good job. (Higher Education Research Institute, 2008)
The good news is you have the tools, the resources and the formula to effectively change your life now.
“Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which, in prosperous circumstances, would have lain dormant.” Aristotle
Apply your Mental Treasure list as a guide to evaluate your job. Are you working and getting paid to use your best talents and skills? Does your career choice match-up with your inner-most abilities? Apply your Mental Treasure list to help you pick classes, college majors, internships, volunteering and community service projects.
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Keys To Finding Your Mental Treasure
“Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” Martin Luther King, Jr.
The first step on the journey to self discovery is accepting the importance of your mental treasure. Are you imaginative, courageous, kind, polite, loving, patient, creative, and responsible? These are some examples of positive personality traits. When you accept what you cannot do you save time and effort. You can focus on the things you do exceptionally well. Over time you become confident. With more confidence you become aware of or open to new opportunities. You have now tapped into your inner source of power.
An unlikely Hero
Hero - a person who, in the opinion of others is regarded as a model, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a model or ideal.
Imagine waking up one morning and ‘Life’ hands you a live grenade. A personal crisis is about to suddenly shatter and disrupt your happy successful life. Yes! Your life is about to explode into millions of pieces. What can save you? Who will save you?
Professor Randy Paush (pronounced powsh), became a Hero to millions by doing what he loved best while facing a personal crisis. After learning that his pancreatic cancer was terminal, the 47 year old husband and father shared his last words of wisdom in a lecture. Millions of people saw it on YouTube or read about it in his book the “Last Lecture”
“I am flattered and embarrassed by all the recent attention to my "Last Lecture." I am told that, including abridged versions, over six million people have viewed the lecture online. The lecture really was for my kids, but if others are finding value in it, that is wonderful. But rest assured; I'm hardly unique.” Professor Randy Paush
It is important to distinguish between skills that are learned, experiences, and talents that are naturally a part of you. Skill is defined as the ability, coming from one's knowledge, practice, aptitude, etc., to do something well. Skills can change as you grow or change jobs, for example lawn mowing, painting, bookkeeping etc. A talent is a special natural ability or aptitude. Are you good with numbers or building things? Some talents lead to certain career or job choices. When you apply your natural talents and training to your work you have a formula for success.
What activities make you feel energized even if you were feeling tired? What do you lose track of time doing? What do you do that makes, loved ones or others praise you?
The next key is personal choice. Your mental Treasure helps you define your self-worth. It helps you overcome messages that are negative, misleading and hurtful. If you start to identify yourself with the labels society uses you become, powerless and vulnerable. Do you start your day knowing you’re unique? What you do with your Mental Treasure will determine the results you get.
Olympic Hero
In school Devon Harris wanted to stand out from the pack. He choose track as the vehicle to help him achieve his dream of becoming a ‘track star’ and representing Jamaica in the Olympics. It was much later that Devon’s dreams came true but not in the way he imagined it. As an Army Lieutenant Devon Harris read about a proposal in an army publication… for those who wanted to undergo rigorous and dangerous training to represent Jamaica in the winter Olympics. He initially thought the idea was ridiculous, but was eventually convinced to participate by his colonel. During the team selection process he had the fastest push time. Devon Harris was one of four members of the first Jamaican Bobsled Team, which fist competed in the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, in Calgary. Their story captivated the world and was retold in the movie Cool Runnings.
The movie Cool Runnings captured the more hilarious moments of the team’s journey from the sandy seashore of a tropical island to the frigid forbidding landscape of Calgary Alberta, Canada.
The Jamaican team finishes with a fast time which puts them in eighth position. For the first half of the final day's race it looks as though they will break the world bobsled speed record, until tragedy strikes; their sled, due to one of the blades falling off, flips on its side coming out of a turn towards the end of their run, leaving them meters short of the finish line. However, the team lifts their sled up and walks across the finish line to rousing applause from onlookers. The team at the end, feels accomplished enough to return in four years to the next winter Olympics. A brief epilogue states the team returned to Jamaica as heroes.
Devon Harris competed in two more Olympics thus accomplishing his goal of being a track star ‘on ice’.
How do you overcome limited beliefs? You find your inner source of power by using your Mental Treasure to live without limits. Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
The first step on the journey to self discovery is accepting the importance of your mental treasure. Are you imaginative, courageous, kind, polite, loving, patient, creative, and responsible? These are some examples of positive personality traits. When you accept what you cannot do you save time and effort. You can focus on the things you do exceptionally well. Over time you become confident. With more confidence you become aware of or open to new opportunities. You have now tapped into your inner source of power.
An unlikely Hero
Hero - a person who, in the opinion of others is regarded as a model, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a model or ideal.
Imagine waking up one morning and ‘Life’ hands you a live grenade. A personal crisis is about to suddenly shatter and disrupt your happy successful life. Yes! Your life is about to explode into millions of pieces. What can save you? Who will save you?
Professor Randy Paush (pronounced powsh), became a Hero to millions by doing what he loved best while facing a personal crisis. After learning that his pancreatic cancer was terminal, the 47 year old husband and father shared his last words of wisdom in a lecture. Millions of people saw it on YouTube or read about it in his book the “Last Lecture”
“I am flattered and embarrassed by all the recent attention to my "Last Lecture." I am told that, including abridged versions, over six million people have viewed the lecture online. The lecture really was for my kids, but if others are finding value in it, that is wonderful. But rest assured; I'm hardly unique.” Professor Randy Paush
It is important to distinguish between skills that are learned, experiences, and talents that are naturally a part of you. Skill is defined as the ability, coming from one's knowledge, practice, aptitude, etc., to do something well. Skills can change as you grow or change jobs, for example lawn mowing, painting, bookkeeping etc. A talent is a special natural ability or aptitude. Are you good with numbers or building things? Some talents lead to certain career or job choices. When you apply your natural talents and training to your work you have a formula for success.
What activities make you feel energized even if you were feeling tired? What do you lose track of time doing? What do you do that makes, loved ones or others praise you?
The next key is personal choice. Your mental Treasure helps you define your self-worth. It helps you overcome messages that are negative, misleading and hurtful. If you start to identify yourself with the labels society uses you become, powerless and vulnerable. Do you start your day knowing you’re unique? What you do with your Mental Treasure will determine the results you get.
Olympic Hero
In school Devon Harris wanted to stand out from the pack. He choose track as the vehicle to help him achieve his dream of becoming a ‘track star’ and representing Jamaica in the Olympics. It was much later that Devon’s dreams came true but not in the way he imagined it. As an Army Lieutenant Devon Harris read about a proposal in an army publication… for those who wanted to undergo rigorous and dangerous training to represent Jamaica in the winter Olympics. He initially thought the idea was ridiculous, but was eventually convinced to participate by his colonel. During the team selection process he had the fastest push time. Devon Harris was one of four members of the first Jamaican Bobsled Team, which fist competed in the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, in Calgary. Their story captivated the world and was retold in the movie Cool Runnings.
The movie Cool Runnings captured the more hilarious moments of the team’s journey from the sandy seashore of a tropical island to the frigid forbidding landscape of Calgary Alberta, Canada.
The Jamaican team finishes with a fast time which puts them in eighth position. For the first half of the final day's race it looks as though they will break the world bobsled speed record, until tragedy strikes; their sled, due to one of the blades falling off, flips on its side coming out of a turn towards the end of their run, leaving them meters short of the finish line. However, the team lifts their sled up and walks across the finish line to rousing applause from onlookers. The team at the end, feels accomplished enough to return in four years to the next winter Olympics. A brief epilogue states the team returned to Jamaica as heroes.
Devon Harris competed in two more Olympics thus accomplishing his goal of being a track star ‘on ice’.
How do you overcome limited beliefs? You find your inner source of power by using your Mental Treasure to live without limits. Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
What is your Mental Treasure?
We are all born with natural talents, also referred to as abilities or gifts. Some times the talent is recognized early and nurtured. Sometimes the talent needs time to grow and mature before it is fully understood and accepted. What are your talents? What is the thing you like to do that is easy and makes you feel happy?
Uncovering your mental treasure is a process of self-discovery that can reveal surprising answers about who you are. Are you living your best life now? Are you satisfied with your relationships? What would you like to have more off or less off?
The dictionary defines treasure as -any thing or person greatly valued or highly prized: (n) or to retain carefully or keep in store, as in the mind. (v)
I define Mental Treasure as the driving force that allows you to think or function in such a way that makes you special, unique or stand out from everyone else.
Being born with a talent is not enough to secure a good or comfortable life. Recognizing, accepting, nurturing and managing your talent can create challenges every step of the way. It is easy to get lost or give up. You settle for a life less fulfilling, all the time knowing or wishing you could do better.
Born with something special at 19 years old, Fantasia finally accepted her voice as a ‘gift from God’, which her mother had always told her it was, she used it to wow the judges and 60 million voters to become the winner of American Idol (third season) Fantasia had something special. At the tender age of five her singing had churchgoers spellbound by her performances as part of the Barrio Family Gospel group. At the age of 9, she was told by an elderly woman that her singing had touched her so much that she was brought to tears.
“I seemed so different from other kids; I grew up in church and felt a connection with God, and a lot of kids my age really didn't understand that” Fantasia Barrino
Warning signs
Fantasia’s touring with the Barrino family Gospel group interfered with her school work and she dropped out of school at 14, eventually ending up on welfare after becoming pregnant at 17 and unable to find work. With so much talent and success from an early age why did Fantasia’s life become so desperate?
Fantasia’s stunning success at 19 years old came as, a result of her desire for change. Perhaps she became a winner when she made the decision to change her circumstances for herself and her daughter. She started thinking differently. Refusing to accept the conditions she was living in. Taking action she borrowed fifty dollars and made her way to the show’s open call at the Georgia Dome. That special something she had made her standout even in a crowd of thousands. She was chosen round after round until she was the only one in the spotlight…the winner.
Born to be a pioneer
Bill Gates spent a lot of time alone ‘thinking’. His parents did not know what to make of his day dreaming. They wanted him to follow their plans for him, go to college become a lawyer etc…imagine how different the world would be if Bill Gates had not followed where his passion lead him… to computers
Your Mental Treasure is not a habit, behavior or hobby. It is something that can dramatically change your life once it is discovered. Success, fame, wealth, and star power are some of the benefits you gain.
Imagine waking up one morning and ‘Life’ hands you a live grenade. Yes! Your life is about to explode into millions of pieces. What can save you?
Winston Churchill’s answer is Attitude…”attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”
Mental attitude is a state of mind or feeling.
Lance Armstrong discovered his greatest talent was bicycle racing. Lance also knows how to beat the odds when confronted with life and death struggles. He is the only person to win the Tour de France seven times in a row breaking previous records of five wins in the sport. The Tour de France is an annual bicycle race bringing together cyclists from around the world. The course is 3,500 kilometers or 2,200 miles and goes through France and bordering Countries. It lasts three weeks and ends in Paris. At the age of 25 Lance was an undisputed champion. Then he was diagnosed with stage three testicular cancer setting the stage for the biggest challenge of his life. He under went treatment for brain and testicular cancer, made a miraculous recovery even though he was given a survival rate of 40%.
Lance Armstrong had the combination of desire, personality, skill and natural talent to be the champion Muhammad Ali describes “Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, and a vision. They have to have last-minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, and they have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.”
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.
Uncovering your mental treasure is a process of self-discovery that can reveal surprising answers about who you are. Are you living your best life now? Are you satisfied with your relationships? What would you like to have more off or less off?
The dictionary defines treasure as -any thing or person greatly valued or highly prized: (n) or to retain carefully or keep in store, as in the mind. (v)
I define Mental Treasure as the driving force that allows you to think or function in such a way that makes you special, unique or stand out from everyone else.
Being born with a talent is not enough to secure a good or comfortable life. Recognizing, accepting, nurturing and managing your talent can create challenges every step of the way. It is easy to get lost or give up. You settle for a life less fulfilling, all the time knowing or wishing you could do better.
Born with something special at 19 years old, Fantasia finally accepted her voice as a ‘gift from God’, which her mother had always told her it was, she used it to wow the judges and 60 million voters to become the winner of American Idol (third season) Fantasia had something special. At the tender age of five her singing had churchgoers spellbound by her performances as part of the Barrio Family Gospel group. At the age of 9, she was told by an elderly woman that her singing had touched her so much that she was brought to tears.
“I seemed so different from other kids; I grew up in church and felt a connection with God, and a lot of kids my age really didn't understand that” Fantasia Barrino
Warning signs
Fantasia’s touring with the Barrino family Gospel group interfered with her school work and she dropped out of school at 14, eventually ending up on welfare after becoming pregnant at 17 and unable to find work. With so much talent and success from an early age why did Fantasia’s life become so desperate?
Fantasia’s stunning success at 19 years old came as, a result of her desire for change. Perhaps she became a winner when she made the decision to change her circumstances for herself and her daughter. She started thinking differently. Refusing to accept the conditions she was living in. Taking action she borrowed fifty dollars and made her way to the show’s open call at the Georgia Dome. That special something she had made her standout even in a crowd of thousands. She was chosen round after round until she was the only one in the spotlight…the winner.
Born to be a pioneer
Bill Gates spent a lot of time alone ‘thinking’. His parents did not know what to make of his day dreaming. They wanted him to follow their plans for him, go to college become a lawyer etc…imagine how different the world would be if Bill Gates had not followed where his passion lead him… to computers
Your Mental Treasure is not a habit, behavior or hobby. It is something that can dramatically change your life once it is discovered. Success, fame, wealth, and star power are some of the benefits you gain.
Imagine waking up one morning and ‘Life’ hands you a live grenade. Yes! Your life is about to explode into millions of pieces. What can save you?
Winston Churchill’s answer is Attitude…”attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”
Mental attitude is a state of mind or feeling.
Lance Armstrong discovered his greatest talent was bicycle racing. Lance also knows how to beat the odds when confronted with life and death struggles. He is the only person to win the Tour de France seven times in a row breaking previous records of five wins in the sport. The Tour de France is an annual bicycle race bringing together cyclists from around the world. The course is 3,500 kilometers or 2,200 miles and goes through France and bordering Countries. It lasts three weeks and ends in Paris. At the age of 25 Lance was an undisputed champion. Then he was diagnosed with stage three testicular cancer setting the stage for the biggest challenge of his life. He under went treatment for brain and testicular cancer, made a miraculous recovery even though he was given a survival rate of 40%.
Lance Armstrong had the combination of desire, personality, skill and natural talent to be the champion Muhammad Ali describes “Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, and a vision. They have to have last-minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, and they have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.”
Visit www.MentalTreasure.com for more information.