Self Help Mantra

7 GOLDEN RULES IN LIFE !

2012-01-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

7 GOLDEN RULES IN LIFE

1st

Don't let someone become a priority in your life, when you are just an option in their life. Relationships work best when they are balanced.

2nd

Never explain yourself to anyone.

Because the person who likes you doesn't need it, and the person who dislikes you won't believe it.

3rd

When you keep saying you are busy, then you are never free.

When you keep saying you have no time, then you will never have time.

When you keep saying that you will do it tomorrow, then your tomorrow will never come.

4th

When we wake up in the morning, we have two simple choices.

Go back to sleep and dream, or wake up and chase those dreams.

Choice is yours

5th

We make them cry who care for us.

We cry for those who never care for us.

And we care for those who will never cry for us.

This is the truth of life, it's strange but true. Once you realize this, it's never too late to change.

6th

Don't make promise when you are in joy.

Don't reply when you are sad. Don't take decision when you are angry.

Think twice, act twice.

7th

Time is like river. You can't touch the same water twice,

because the flow that has passed will never pass again.

Enjoy every moment of life

5 Simple Ways to Increase Your Intelligence

2011-12-16T03:47:00.000-08:00

Your brain needs exercise just like a muscle. If you use it often and in the right ways, you will become a more skilled thinker and increase your ability to focus. Here are 5 simple techniques to exercise your brain.

1. Minimize Television Watching -- Watching television doesn’t use your mental capacity OR allow it to recharge. When you feel like relaxing, try reading a book instead. If you’re too tired, listen to some music. When you’re with your friends or family, leave the tube off and have a conversation.

2. Exercise -- Time spent exercising always leads to greater learning because it improves productivity during the time afterwards. Using your body clears your head and creates a wave of energy.

3. Read Challenging Books -- If you want to improve your thinking and writing ability you should read books that make you focus. Reading a classic novel can change your view of the world and will make you think in more precise, elegant English.

4. Early to Bed, Early to Rise -- Nothing makes it harder to concentrate than sleep deprivation. You’ll be most rejuvenated if you go to bed early and don’t sleep more than 8 hours.

5. Take Time to Reflect -- Spending some time alone in reflection gives you a chance organize your thoughts and prioritize your responsibilities. Afterwards, you’ll have a better understanding of what’s important and what isn’t.

Tips To Stay On Track When Not In Mood .... Part 2

2011-12-13T00:10:00.000-08:00

4. Just Open the Document - Our resistance to work is a funny thing … it can feel huge, but it starts to vanish as soon as we take the tiniest action towards getting something done. One really simple tip is to open the document which relates to the work you’re putting off. Just open up that report, or that email.

Once it’s on the screen in front of you, you’re already getting yourself into the mood to work on it. If you’re still struggling, tell yourself that you’ll spend five minutes working. Set a timer if you have to. As soon as you get going, it’ll get easier.

5. Do the Very Best You Can - When you don’t feel like working, it’s easy to tackle everything half-heartedly, doing the bare minimum to scrape by. Unsurprisingly, this doesn’t do much for your motivation; you end up feeling vaguely dissatisfied with what you’ve done.

Instead, resolve to do the very best on the piece of work you’re tackling, however mundane or unimportant it seems. Even if no-one else ever notices, you will know that you gave it your best shot, and you’ll be proud of yourself for that.

6. Promise Yourself a Reward - Finally, if nothing about your work itself can motivate you, then try a bribe! Promise yourself a treat if you get through those three tasks on your list, or if you finish this one piece of work which has been hanging over you.

You might decide to take the rest of the day off (which encourages you to work faster rather than procrastinate) . You might go to your favorite restaurant for lunch. You could treat yourself to a new CD or book which you’ve been meaning to buy. Rewards can be hugely motivating – give it a go.

Concluded

Tips To Stay On Track When Not In Mood .... Part 1

2011-12-12T03:21:00.000-08:00

We all have times when we’re just not in the mood to get on with work. Perhaps we’re feeling tired or apathetic, or weeks of stress have finally caught up with us. Maybe we’re just having a hard time staying on task – Facebook, Twitter, web comics and other distractions seem, well, more distracting than usual.

So how can you stay on-task and on-track when you don’t feel like working?

1. Do Something Else! - Okay, it’s not always possible – but how about doing something else instead? If you’re trying to force yourself to work on your small biz at the weekend and you’re feeling fed up, then the best solution may well be to simply take a break.

You can end up wasting a lot of energy by pushing yourself on by sheer willpower … when, in fact, it may be the case that your brain and body really need a break.

Of course, this isn’t an option in your average job (no boss wants to hear “sorry, I wasn’t in the mood to work today”) but if you have flexible hours or work for yourself, pay attention to early signs of fatigue or burnout.

2. Make a (Short) List of Tasks - A sense of overwhelm is often at the root of our work problems. If you’re struggling to work because you don’t know where to begin, sit down and write a short list of things which you want to get done today. Try to keep it to just three or four items.

Once you have a list in front of you, you may well find your resistance to work melts away. It’s easy to knock off the tasks on a list; it’s hard to cope with that sense of having far too much work and nowhere near enough time.

3. Focus on How You’ll Feel Later - Often, we end up procrastinating because it’s easier to play a flash game rather than get on with work. The problem is, procrastination inevitably leads to feelings of frustration, guilt or irritation – we know we’ve wasted time.

Instead of thinking about how you feel right at this moment (bored or fed-up with work) think about how you’ll feel in a few hours time if you get that work done. You’ll probably be relieved, satisfied, proud of yourself. Focus on getting through your work so that you can end the day on a high note.

To be Continued....

10 New Uses for Vinegar !

2011-12-09T02:40:00.000-08:00

10 New Uses for Vinegar

"Vinegar is a strong preservative because its acetic acid kills the microbes and bacteria that could cause food to spoil," says Michael Doyle, director of the Center for Food Safety at the University of Georgia, in Griffin. "It's also a good deodorizer - the acid neutralizes basic compounds, such as those found in degrading meat, that can be volatile and unpleasant."

Use White Vinegar to:

1. Pinch-hit for lemon in a savory recipe. Use 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar in place of 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.

2. Remove coffee or tea stains from the bottom of a cup. Swish 2 tablespoons of vinegar around in the cup, then wash as usual.

3. Treat oily hair. Vinegar is a good degreaser for oily hair because it helps adjust pH levels. Shampoo your hair as usual, rinse, then pour 1/4 cup over it and rinse again.

4. Wipe salt stains off boots. Dip a cloth or an old T-shirt into vinegar, then wipe away the white residue.

5. Make wool sweaters fluffier. Drop in a couple of capfuls of vinegar during the rinse cycle for an extra-soft feel.

6. Deodorize a garbage disposal. Make vinegar ice cubes and feed them down the disposal. After grinding, run cold water through the drain.

7. Clean a teakettle or a coffeemaker. Boil a mixture of water and vinegar in a teakettle, then wipe away the grime. Fill the reservoir of a coffeemaker with a mixture of vinegar and water and run it through a brewing cycle. Follow this with several cycles of water to rinse thoroughly.

8. Clean a dishwasher. Once a month, with the machine empty, run a cup of vinegar through an entire cycle to reduce soap buildup on the inner mechanisms and glassware.

9. Remove stubborn price tags or stickers. Paint them with several coats of vinegar, let the liquid soak in for five minutes, then wipe away the residue.

10. Kill weeds between cracks in paving stones and sidewalks. Fill a spray bottle with straight vinegar and spray multiple times. (Be careful not to get any on the surrounding grass, as it will kill that too.)

Warning : The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

Never use any home remedy or other self treatment without being advised to do so by a physician.

Password Security - How to Create & Remember Computer Passwords !

2011-12-08T01:44:00.000-08:00

Password Security

With most websites requiring you to create an account, do you find yourself in a bit of a pickle when it comes to inventing passwords? Many people use the same password for all their online accounts and often forget the password they came up with months ago. Hands up who doesn’t feel like banging your head against the wall trying to remember the password you created months ago?

Let’s face it - everyone has problems with creating and remembering secure passwords. That’s why we decided to help.

Tips on how to create and remember your passwords:

•Use the first letters of a sentence that you will remember,e.g. "I have 3 cats: Fluffy, Furry and Shaggy" gives: Ih3c:FF&S, or “Bouncing tigers have every right to ice-cream” becomes: Bther2I-C.

•Take the name of the website and then add your personal twist, like your height or your friend’s home address (e.g. “AmazonOceanRd6’ 2”). Avoid using your own contact details like your phone number or house number.

•Remove the vowels from a word or phrase e.g. "I like eating pancakes” becomes: Ilktngpncks”.

•Use a phrase from your favourite book and then add the page, paragraph or chapter number.

The Do’s and Don'ts of creating passwords

Do:

•Mix letters, numbers and symbols, and use case sensitivity (upper and lower case letters)

•The longer the better. Use passwords that are longer than 6 characters.

•Change your passwords at least every 60 days, cycling the numeric values up or down makes the new password easy to remember.

•Try copying and pasting at least some of the characters in your password that way keyloggers won’t be able to track your keystrokes.

Don't:

•Don’t use words or phrases or numbers that have personal significance. It is very easy for someone to guess or identify your personal details like date of birth.

•Avoid writing your password down, use a reputable password manager to manage all your passwords.

•Don’t use the same password for several logins, especially if they involve sensitive financial or other personal information.

•Don’t tell anybody your password.

•When registering on websites that ask for your email address, never use the same password as your email account.

Ten Tips For Student To Manage Time More Effectively - Part 2

2011-12-07T00:10:00.000-08:00

Create a learning environment:

An environment conducive to learning is useful. If you think you can sit or curl up anywhere and learn, you may be wrong. The most comfortable environment does not necessarily promote learning. The best environment is one where you feel motivated, alert and reasonably comfortable to study.

Jot it down:

How often do we find ourselves mumbling, "If only I could remember…" The simple solution to this problem is to always carry a pencil and paper with you. The moment you get a unique idea or you hear something noteworthy — just scribble it down, and file it where it is easily accessible. This is an absolute time saver!

Watch out for potential time-wasters:

Lack of selfdiscipline, idling, daydreaming, procrastinating (putting off or postponing unpleasant or difficult tasks), focusing on trivia, aimless channel surfing or browsing the Net are some of the most notorious time wasters to avoid. They surreptitiously whittle away at time without you even realising it.

Prioritise your interests.

There are just that many hours in a day. Its better to concentrate on a few select interests and hone them to perfection instead of trying to dabble in a large number of activities that leave you exhausted and unsatisfied.

Seek help:

Despite all the planning and determination, you may, at times, find that you are unable to stick to your schedule. At such times, seek help from someone close to you. Discuss your goals and enlist their help in helping you stick to your schedule.

Time management is a 'skill' and, an 'art' that we can develop through careful practice. And the sooner we start the better.

Remember you have the same 24 hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Mother Teresa, Louis Pasteur, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci or Albert Einstein. It's how you use it that makes the difference.

Concluded

Ten Tips For Student To Manage Time More Effectively - Part 1

2011-12-06T02:50:00.000-08:00

Here are 10 tips to help you manage your time more effectively ( for students ):

Time is precious:

Time is unidirectional. Once lost, it's gone forever. It is therefore essential to value it as a limited and fleeting resource. Wasted time is one thing that can't be recycled.

Leverage your own time:

Look at how you spend time in a typical day. What can you stop doing, or do less of? If you use your time carefully, you will have more of it for things that make a difference.

Budget your time:

Even more than money,we need to budget our time judiciously. The art lies in laying down priorities for work, fixing minimum and maximum time slots for different activities and managing within the 24-hour day. Never close a week without planning a schedule for the next one. Prepare a daily time schedule. But do factor in minor adjustments. M a i n t a i n i n g re g u l a r i t y pays dividends.

Also, you can't possibly cut down on sleep, can you? A relaxed mind learns (and retains) far better and quicker than

one under tension. Make sure you budget some time for relaxation and exercise in your schedule, how so ever busy.

The early bird gets the worm:

An early start saves a lot of time. If possible, begin and complete your assignments and projects well in time to avoid undue tension. Don't wait till the very last moment to get cracking. Make ‘Defeat the Deadline’ your motto.

Table your intent:

Start by preparing a timetable. To draw up a schedule that will work for you, factor in your preferred style of study ie your ‘prime time’ (you will find that you function at your peak at a particular time, this is the best time to handle ‘tough’ tasks). Similarly, make a note of your average attention span. Only you know which learning method works best for you. Then, match your style with the course requirements. Each study period must

cover one learning objective. Ideally, it should not exceed beyond 90 minutes. Although individual attention spans can vary somewhat, research on learning patterns shows that the speed and effectiveness of learning changes with time. After about 25 minutes, the attention curve begins to dip.Teachers are aware of this and attempt to restart the curve every 20 minutes or so by introducing a new activity like asking a question or cracking a joke to liven things up and change the pace.

To Be Continued....

Ten Bad Work Habits - Part 2

2011-12-01T02:15:00.000-08:00

6) People who do not consider their time to be more precious than yours, and yet that's the implication of their constant tardiness come sixth on the list.

7) Seventh on the list are bad jokes. It's inappropriate not just because it's politically incorrect in an overly sensitive world but also because it's just not funny.

8) Constant employer slandering doesn't earn brownie points either. Most often committed by employees who have mentally resigned but still physically come to work this is an unremitting verbal attack on the company, and after a point, loses charm with the hard-workers.

9) Also on the annoying list are people who think your business is their business and are never afraid to ask personal questions. They have to know everything and must know it immediately.

10) Internet addiction also makes it to the list. The temptation to go online and check up things ever so often is very overwhelming and workaholic colleagues who believe that "we come to work, to work" experience blood pressure rises every time they glance over and see a peer browsing the net.

Concluded.

Ten Bad Work Habits - Part 1

2011-11-30T03:04:00.000-08:00

A list of ten most common habitual workplace offenses shoes how even the most amiable worker can be driven into becoming an office tyrant.

1) First on the list is whining. people who keep on whining every chance they get, keeps colleagues from taking them seriously.

2) Second is low hygiene. These are the people who, when departing a toilet cubicle, leave an intolerable mess. They don't clean up a meeting room when they finish, and they are, in one word filthy.

3) Poor email etiquette takes the third place. This includes the habit of unnecessarily scream in capital letters, and using worlds like ur and gr8, send endless emails instead of using the phone, who disregard apostrophes, and who incorrectly spell words.

4) Next on the list is office gossip. If a rumor doesn't exist, one will be created, anything to aid in the private belittling of a colleague.

5) Then there are those who waste time. These people are either incredibly efficient or very good at doing nothing, and they will come to your cubicle for a chat, a futile chat that lingers longer than is comfortable.

To Be Continued....

Source : TOI

5 Things to Know about SKIING ...

2011-11-28T04:25:00.000-08:00

1. Clothing and gear :

First of all, start out warm. If you get into the cold and are feeling chilled yourself, you may not be able to move flexibly. Feet should not lose circulation. Gloves, glares, and sweaters are a must-among other woolies.

2. You will Fall

That's the first rule of skiing. So, overcome that fear. It is crucial to take things a step at a time and start on a flat or very gentle slop first. You can also experiment with small turns at this level. Learning to fall properly can help prevent serious injury. Remember, try and fall towards the mountain.

3. Get used to the equipment

Skiing may be a new activity for you so you will have to get used to the equipment and allow it to adapt to your movement and body. Also wax the skis before you use them.

4. Choose a level wisely

Don't get carried away with watching others skiing; it may be a while before you are adept on the slopes. So, listen to your instructor and take practice lessons first. And smaller, gentle slopes are best even a fourth or fifth time out on the snow.

5. Rope it

Look out for the rope tow. most beginners slopes have it. A ski rope tow will help you pull yourself up the slope while on your skis.

5 Steps To Prevent Your USB From Virus

2011-11-24T01:52:00.000-08:00

You have a USB and I’m sure that you had problem with it more than 1 time. The main reason is because of virus. And you will use antivirus software to delete these damn viruses, or might format it. But it is said that ‘Prevention is better than cure.’

Here are some simples step to prevent your beloved USB from virus - tongue.gif

So how can you know that your USB is infected? When you right click your USB, you will see “Autoplay” in Bold in the first line. It means that your USB has been infected with virus, 90% possibility! Because the first line should be Open or Expore instead of Autoplay Virus can be communicated to USB because it copies itself to USB and create a file autorun.inf to activate virus itself. And it is so smart to be in hidden form.

When you insert a USB to your computer, it takes advantage of your habit of double-click on USB symbol in My Computer to break into your computer. There, it duplicates and disperses to everywhere. Their next patients are other USB inserting to the computer.

You may follow these 5 steps to make a shell for your USB:

Step 1: Check your USB’s name. For ex, your USB drive is E: and label is THANHNGOC

Step 2: Convert file system of USB into NTFS: Start > Run, type: “convert : /FS:NTFS”. For ex, with your USB in drive E, you type: “convert E: /FS:NTFS”. Note: if your USB has function of MP3 and sound record, you should skip this step, because your multimedia player can not run MP3 files in your USB.

Step 3: Create an autorun.inf with whatever content you want; even let it empty is okay. Copy that autorun file to your USB. (You may create file autorun.inf by: Click Tools on menu > > Folder Option> Ch?n View > Remove Tick in square Hide Extentions for known file types> OK. Then make a new folder and name its autorun.inf. After that, you have to come back to select Hide Extentions for known file types. Otherwise, all file names are so frustrated.)

Step 4: Right-click on the autorun file > Property > Tick Read Only, you may choose Hidden

Step 5: Prevented all access to file autorun.inf: Click Start > Run > type: “cacls \autorun.inf /D Everyone”. For ex, you type “cacls E:\autorun.inf /D Everyone” A black window will appear and it may require you to type USB label. Type its name (THANHNGOC) and Enter. It takes about 5 seconds to complete.

This will not prevent your USB from all viruses, but this way partly help your USB be safe to most virus infecting via USB. The last recommend is to install a reliable antivirus software with automatic update.

Source : DSDG Email

Tips to Improve Fuel Economy - Part 3

2011-11-23T00:10:00.000-08:00

Air Filter

One of the most common reasons for a drop in fuel efficiency is a dirty intake filter. This will decrease the amount of air entering the cylinders of the engine resulting in incomplete combustion. Check the filter regularly to ensure that it is clean.

Spark Plugs

Ensure your spark plugs are in good condition. Renew the plugs and wires at intervals specified by the owners’ manual. This will keep all cylinders firing properly resulting in higher efficiency.

Lube Oil

Change the lube oil at intervals specified by the owners’ manual. Use the recommended oil only especially in newer cars. Use of an engine flush before changing the oil will help to get rid of a lot of the dirt that collects in the engine that a normal oil change will not remove. On older engines it is advisable to use an oil treatment agent. This basically thickens the oil which creates a better seal between the piston and the liner, preventing blow past and consequent loss of combustion pressure, resulting in higher fuel efficiency.

Exhausts alter fuel efficiency

Most cars have special sizes for the exhaust. When cars are reasonably old the silencers has to be changed. The garage people always try to fit a size that they have in the garage itself, which might not be the exact size recommended for the car. The wrong size a bigger or smaller silencer size effects on the MPG of the car and the HP of the car. It may be cheaper to put another size than your recommended size for your car but on the long run it will cost you in many ways, especially on fuel consumption. Always put the recommended size of the exhaust that is indicated in your car manual because the car company knows how to optimize the performance of your car.

Concluded

Tips to Improve Fuel Economy - Part 2

2011-11-22T00:10:00.000-08:00

Lighten your load

Think carefully about what you need on a journey. if you do not need something, do not pack it. Remove roof racks if not needed. Remember that the lighter the load, the lower the fuel consumption, and emissions, and the higher the fuel efficiency.

Tyres effect fuel efficiency

It is estimated that about 50% of tyres on the road are under inflated. Aside from increasing the rate of wear, this wastes fuel and decreased your Fuel efficiency. Check your tyre pressures every fortnight. Worn tyres will Also decrease fuel efficiency (and your safety!), so check the tread regularly. If you are replacing tyres then consider some of the newer 'Eco' tyres that are designed specifically to increase fuel efficiency.

Car Windows

Driving with your windows open drastically reduces your fuel efficiency, far more so than putting the air conditioning on when motor way driving. So in those hot summers(?) preferably keep the windows shut, and the air conditioning on if you want to keep cool. Of course the air conditioning decreases fuel efficiency too, so try not to over use it.

Invest in a new fuel efficient car

New cars come in all shapes and sizes, but it is possible to pick a new car that can greatly reduce your fuel bill, and your fuel emissions. Size matters. Choose an economical car - small cars use far more fuel efficient and produce lower emissions than large cars. Drive the most fuel-efficient car that meets your needs. Compare models and classes. Even similarly sized cars can vary in fuel efficiency by up to 45%. Consider diesel engines (with a particulate trap), and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) and CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) fuelled cars - all have lower CO2 emissions than standard petrol cars. Consider 'hybrid' vehicles - they combine a conventional engine with an electric motor and battery. These offer reduced fuel consumption and CO2 with potentially lower emissions of all pollutants.

Diesel Engines

If you are going to buy a diesel, ensure it is a new 'common rail' type, as these are approximately 10% more efficient than older diesels. Also replace (or clean if applicable) air cleaner elements as often as is required by your vehicles servicing schedule. Regular Maintenance maintains fuel efficiency

To Be Continued ....

Tips to Improve Fuel Economy - Part 1

2011-11-21T02:04:00.000-08:00

Here are some very good tips on improving your vehicle's Fuel Economy / Increase Fuel Efficiency / Mileage. With increasing fuel prices it is becoming more and more prudent to use them.

Use your gears wisely.

Driving in the highest gear possible without labouring the engine is a fuel-efficient way of driving. A vehicle travelling at 60kmph in third gear uses 25 percent more fuel than at the same speed in fifth gear.

Drive smoothly

Think ahead! By applying light throttle and avoiding heavy braking, you can reduce both fuel consumption and wear and tear. Try to predict traffic at junctions and when in queuing to avoid accelerating and then braking. Research suggests driving techniques can influence car fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.

Switch off your engine

There are two schools of thought on this one. Switching your engine off for short periods of time can actually increase fuel consumption, as it requires more fuel to get the engine started. Also your catalytic converter will no longer be running at full temperature and so your car will be less efficient, increasing the amount of pollution you cause. However if you are stopped for more than a few minutes then your car will simply burn less fuel with the engine stopped.

Drive off promptly to prevent wasting fuel

Don't leave your engine running when you first start up. Drive off straight away if you can, but drive gently until the engine has reached its normal operating temperature. This doesn't increase fuel efficiency as such, but it does mean your engine is switched on for less time.

To Be Continued....

The Six Pillars of CHARACTER !

2011-11-18T03:16:00.000-08:00

The CHARACTER COUNTS! approach to character education doesn't exclude anyone. That's why we base our programs and materials on six ethical values that everyone can agree on — values that are not political, religious, or culturally biased. Use the points below to help young people understand the Six Pillars, and use the mnemonic devices at right to help them remember.

Trustworthiness

Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends, and country

Respect

Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant and accepting of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements

Responsibility

Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes • Set a good example for others

Fairness

Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly • Treat all people fairly

Caring

Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need

Citizenship

Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment • Volunteer

Source : Making Ethical Decisions

The 8 “L’s” of Parenting !

2011-11-17T01:38:00.000-08:00

The 8 “L’s” of Parenting

1. LOVE your child. For your child to be successful, he or she must feel valued. Your gentle touches, smiles and hugs communicate love. Giving your undivided attention, especially at the end of each day, demonstrates caring.

2. LOOK for the good in your child and make specific comments on what he or she does well. You must believe in your child's worth before he or she can believe it. If you want your child to have self-confidence and motivation, watch for positive behaviors and comment on them.

3. LISTEN, without judgment, to your child express his or her thoughts and feelings. If you do not listen, your child may attempt to gain your attention by misbehaving.

4. LAUGH with your child, not at him or her. Demonstrate a sense of humor as you cope with life's difficulties. Laugh and play together.

5. LABOR diligently and with pride so that your child will want to work hard, persevere and do his or her best.

6.LEARN new information. It is fine to say, I don't know, but then add that you both can find out together. Take the time to read and thus instill a love of learning. On car trips play word games, read or listen to books on tape.

7. LEAVE the television and other media off. Many programs and video games desensitize your child towards violence and contribute to fearfulness and aggression. Place computers in central locations to monitor internet use.

8. LIVE life to its fullest. Take pleasure in little things like an ice cream cone, a beautiful day or the enthusiasm of your child. Read, pretend, take walks, play games, have pleasant meals, share dreams, and enjoy each other.

Source : Leah Davies, M.Ed.

Dating Tips while Going Out with a LEO !

2011-11-14T02:48:00.000-08:00

Leos are the royalty of the zodiac, so give them their due respect.

It's always preferable to allow your Leo to be the center of attention. They love to be dramatic beings.

If you happen to rub a Leo the wrong way, you might run the risk of losing your love forever.

But Leos are warm and friendly and if you are in their inner circle, they will treat you well.

Leos love to court glamour and they don't lose out on their individuality when they make any entry into a party. So, let your Leo make a grand entry wherever you accompany her to.

Always remember that Leos love appreciation. They tend to be generous and emotional.

Manage the Boss - Part 5

2011-11-11T00:10:00.000-08:00

So what does this mean for you in your relationship with your boss? It means the more you get to understand their style and preferences, and tweak your style to match, the more likely they are to warm towards you. If you lean towards an eye for detail and precision, but your boss just wants the big picture – give it that way. What is their biggest strength? Capitalise on it. What is their central goal? How can you assist? If they are extroverts who like to talk through ideas, provide that opportunity. If they are introverts who like to be able to read through something, and ponder it first, present your proposals in a way which will help them assimilate the information and ask questions.

Respect how they like to be treated.

And what if they don’t show the same trespect for you? Well, that’s a subject for another article!

About The Author :

Shona Garner is an experienced Executive and Business Coach, specialising in helping managers build top performing teams, and increase their own standing in the organisation.

Concluded

Manage the Boss - Part 4

2011-11-10T00:10:00.000-08:00

4. Know your style – and know their style; and adapt your behaviour to suit their preferences. A great analogy from relationship expert Shay McConnon is that of the “hot chilli trap”. What is this? It’s when someone assumes that, because they love hot chilli, everyone else does too! Patently, some people do not like hot chilli!

If you’re in a foreign country you at least attempt to learn “please” and “thank you” in their language and show respect for their customs. It’s just courtesy. You adapt your own behaviour to show respect for the differences of perception.

To assume, because we speak the same language, we see things in the same way – is quite clearly erroneous, yet we still persist in believing the mantra “treat others as you’d like to be treated.”

Absolutely not! Treat others as they would like to be treated.

To Be Continued ...

Manage the Boss - Part 3

2011-11-09T00:10:00.000-08:00

3. Consistently look for ways to add value. This is a really simple rule. Bosses are more likely to listen if you speak in “can-do” language, and you are organised, and sound enthusiastic and eager to deliver results.

Look ahead when discussing a project, rather than dwelling on what’s already occurred. Follow through on promises. And adopt a “no-excuses” policy. Failing to produce results almost guarantees a boss will doubt your abilities. So, if you haven’t quite achieved what you set out to do – rather than saying what you’ve not been able to do, start with what you have achieved; be specific about what barriers there were, and summarise your plans to get back on track.

Your boss has pressures of his own. Don’t add to them.

To Be Continued ...

Manage the Boss - Part 2

2011-11-08T00:10:00.000-08:00

2. Anticipate and address a boss’ concerns. The trick here is a technique from what we call Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and is about being able to see the different “perceptual positions” around an issue. Put simply this means seeing something through someone else’s eyes, so you understand their thoughts, feelings, worries and perspectives.

An obvious way is to ask them! And we’d definitely encourage you to fnd the right opportunities to do just that. However, sometimes there’s neither time, nor is it appropriate. So what do you do then? You put yourself in their shoes. And when we say in their shoes – we mean wearing their shoes and looking through their eyes! This is not how you would feel in their shoes. You’re not them!

So, this is easier said than done. But here’s a few killer questions to ask yourself:

What will my boss be anxious about?

What do his bosses expect of him?

How does what I do to help him/her look good?

If I/we do “x”, what might he/she be concerned about?

By answering these questions you’ll be much clearer about what you need to do to both pre-empt and address their concerns. It also significantly increases their perception you really understand where they are coming from, which in turn significantly strengthens the trust and relationship between you.

To Be Continued ....

Manage the Boss - Part 1 !

2011-11-07T00:10:00.000-08:00

Two critical skills which the highest performing managers have in spades are the ability to influence and persuade. The most obvious targets for your powers of persuasion are your team, and sometimes your peers in different departments; but just as you need to manage down or sideways , it’s also critical you know how to manage upwards.

Do it well, and you’ll shine. Do it badly and you could muddy your reputation and find yourself being passed over for advancement.

To help you make the right impression, here are four simple rules to remember, which will move you in the right direction.

1. Find out what the expectations are – and exceed them. Sounds obvious and simple – yet in my experience it’s neither! Try to answer the following questions:

Do you actually know what your manager’s top priorities are?

How clear are you about the order of priority your manager has for each area of your performance? How clear do you think your manager is about his/her expectations of you?

Sometimes expectations are written – but more often than not, they are unwritten expectations, which your boss may never have really clearly articulated to themselves, let alone you!

Put it this way - if you don’t know for sure what will score you top points with this individual, you may find yourself chasing down the wrong rabbit hole.

And this is NOT about currying favour, or ingratiating yourself. This is about having a clear understanding on both sides about what is important, so you both know and agree where you should focus most of your time and attention. It actually makes your job easier.

So – if you don’t know the answers to the questions above – make a date in your diary to discuss this with your boss! (And before you actually have that meeting, make sure you read technique 4!)

To Be Continued .....

Ways to Make a Good Impressions - Part 2

2011-11-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

5. Discretion : Choose what to share about yourself: forget to tell everyone about that time you went camping and ruptured your appendix, then fell face first into a pile of bug infested leaves-it is rude and will alienate you from the group. Try to withhold from conversations on personal subjects like religion or more disgusting topics like personal medical care. Before you speak, think about the possible impact of what you might say, then imagine its implications in the long run.

6. Humor : Humor can be your most powerful tool or your doom, because everyone has a slightly different sense of humor. What might be hilarious to you might seem disgusting to another, or vice versa. Try to withhold from any jokes that aren't family or dinner table friendly; you can tell those later.

7. Start and End with a Bang : Whoever you are meeting with will remember how you greet them, and then in what manner you left them. If you feel you have trouble with this, practice a few different phrases in the mirror, and introduce elements like: "pleased to meet you," or "honored to make your acquaintance. " Ignore the antiquity of these phrases; it often makes them more memorable.

Making a good impression will set any relationship off on a good foot. If you are in a situation where you need to be judged at face value-such as a job interview or date-then make sure to go through this list and make sure you are within bounds of reason and good taste on all of your decisions.

Concluded

Ways to Make a Good Impressions - Part 1

2011-11-03T03:37:00.000-07:00

Impressions are important: They leave an initial taste in people's mouths that can remain prevalent for the entire relationship. If you are paranoid about what kind of impression you make, run through these seven list items and see if you are consistent with them; if you are, then you will probably expose the best of yourself. If not, then work to meet these standards.

1. Dress : The absolute first impression you will make on someone will be through your clothing, because that is what is seen from a distance, and cannot change throughout your meeting. Make sure to dress according to the situation-don' t over or under dress-and maintain within the limits of good taste. If you aren't sure if what you're wearing looks good, ask people for an honest opinion. One last thought: always, and I mean always, pull up your pants

2. Hygiene : Take a shower! Shave! Brush your teeth! You must be fully bathed and groomed before you meet with someone for the first time, because scruffy looking people generally don't seem as neat and mature. Pay attention to the little elements like breath: keep a pack of mint gum with you wherever you go, and periodically check to make sure you aren't killing bugs every time you breathe out. If you sweat heavily, keep a small stick of deodorant/anti- perspirant close, and if you notice you're stinking you can freshen up. People notice the minutiae!

3. Manners : At the table and with other people be civilized, polite and respectful: keep your elbows off of the table, open doors for people and address everyone-initially, at least-by their formal title. This will make an especially good impression on senior citizens, because you will prove that you aren't one of those "new fangled punks."

4. Speech : Have clean, clear diction and speak sans "like" or "you know." It is important to be articulate because that inspires a feeling of intelligence and education in the person you are meeting with. Always leave out profanity, and whatever you do, make sure to speak loud enough for all to hear, because conversationalists are easily agitated if you force them say "excuse me?" more than a few times.

To Be Continued....