Motivations and Inspirations

Things You Should Have in Your Car

aldo — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:24:50 +0000

Some people spend most of their time inside the car. Well, there are many reasons of that like heavy traffic jam which usually occurs in the morning and the evening and also because they like to travel by car instead of using other transportation modes. As we know that car is the main transportation modes people use and the number is keep on increasing time by time.

No matter which one is the reason, to spend the time inside the car should be fun. There should be enough entertainment devices installed in your car like car DVD players to make sure that you don’t have boring trip with your car. Basically car audio and video system are the same with the audio and video system we have in our home, but in the car, the size is miniaturized and the power source is using DC rather than AC.

After you don’t feel bored because now you can watch your favorite movie inside your car while you are having long traffic jam, no its time to find short cut or alternatives routes by using your GPS devices installed in your car so that you will not be late for dinner with your entire family.

Why Leadership Is So Important To Your Business Success

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:10 +0000

In our competitive world today, leadership skills are crucial to any successful business. What is leadership? Leadership is commonly used to refer to activities such as conducting, guiding, or directing people; initiating activity. But, leadership is also used to refer to someone who is a leader. How can leadership be applied in so many ways and what constitutes a leader in all of these situations? The answer is contained in the realization that perhaps the most fundamental characteristic of leadership, and therefore of leaders, is personal leadership.

Some individuals are born leaders while others have to procure the skill and talent to successfully make their mark as a leader. It is obvious that some individuals have the confidence and the charisma to make themselves role models for others to follow. These individuals do not require much guidance in nurturing their inherent talent.

But there are scores of others for whom developing leadership qualities is key to their success. Leadership skill training is of immense significance in the present day corporate world. Leadership skill training is imparted to concerned individuals to help them derive the maximum benefit as far as acquiring leadership skill is concerned.

At times it is not very simple for new leaders to change their role from a contributor to a leader. Leadership skill training empowers an individual to have faith in others and also assists him in utilizing his time fruitfully with others by grooming people with the aid of guidance, help, and training.

These skills may be tough to buy, so the switchover to the status of leadership can be very demanding and at times unthinkable in the absence of effective guidance and help.

What is personal leadership? It is the ability to lead others and yourself in the direction you want your life to take. The ability to define what you want out of life and how you are going to get there is the first step in developing leadership. It is only the beginning because personal leadership means “leading”, “directing”, and “taking action”. It means living each day to the fullest. It means developing goals that you want so terribly that you live each day with enthusiastic ardor for your goals, yourself, and all who are close to you. Knowing what you want out of life; knowing what success is to you; knowing what your goals are; knowing that you are going to achieve those goals regardless of what other people reckon, say, or do, is the essence of personal leadership.

Personal leadership also means “accountability”. It means that you have chose to use the talents that are unique to you and will develop them further to reach your goals. It means that you realize that you have the potential to develop further. It means that you have determined the course of your destiny—you are the master of your life.

Leadership training also helps leaders who have the inherent talent in them to advance their ability and sense of judgment to transform themselves into leaders of fantastic repute.

Originally posted 2009-11-15 21:21:59. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

A Great Way To Generate All The Motivation You Need To Get Fit

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:09 +0000

If you’re having distress getting motivated to keep to your fitness program … or if you haven’t even got off the starting block yet, this article could change your life! Not completely … that would be too ambitious! But, there’s a tiny, inexpensive device that can provide you with all the motivation you need to get out and start moving your body around a bit more.

The pedometer, as it’s known, can also make you WANT to do it and can even get you to DELIGHT IN doing it!

What … ? DELIGHT IN exercising??? Surely some mistake?

Well, no really. Please read on.

1. So, what is a pedometer?

It’s a small, compact device used for measuring the number of steps taken.

And, as well as measuring the number of steps taken when exercising in your local neighborhood, it can also measure your steps whilst you’re climbing the stairs, mowing the lawn, or doing the shopping.

2. How Does It Work?

It’s small enough to clip to your belt and is fitted with a pendulum which measures one step each time your foot makes contact with the ground.

3. How Much Does It Cost?

Many pedometers have been given away FREE as part of campaigns by local health authorities to get people moving their bodies more.

If you can’t find such a campaign in your area, you can buy a pedometer with a reasonable number of features for as small as $20.

4. What Exactly Does It Do?

You should buy a model which, at the very least, measures the number of steps taken, calories burned, distance walked, speed you’ve been walking and how long your routine has taken.

More expensive models may include any or all of the following additional features:

- a soothing voice to tell you how many steps you’ve taken
- a pulse monitor
- a stopwatch
- a radio and headphones so you can listen to your favorite radio station whilst out walking
- a step filter to achieve greater accuracy
- a back light so you can see your pedometer in the dark.

5. How Do I Set Up My Pedometer?

First you need to enter your height, weight and average stride length.

To arrive at your stride length, most instruction guides prompt you to measure out a distance of, say 10 meters, and to count the number of steps you take to cover it. Divide this number by the overall distance and this gives your average stride length.

Once it’s set up, just follow the instructions to activate the settings you want to use, clip your pedometer to your belt and you’re ready to go.

6. How Do I Take Readings?

At any point after you’ve started your routine, you can stop, flip open the pedometer and take a reading. Of course, you shouldn’t do this too often as this will interrupt the rhythm of your walk.

But you can get an thought of the progress you’re making by checking the number of steps taken, the distance you’ve traveled, the calories you’ve burned and so on. You’ll be able to go from one measurement to the next at the press of a button.

7. How Does This Provide Me More Motivation?

The fantastic thing about wearing a pedometer is that you start to reckon about the number of steps you’ve taken towards your daily target.

This gets you into a ‘walking mindset’ and you suddenly start to identify lots of new walking opportunities.

If you had to be dragged kicking and screaming to take up a fitness routine, the pedometer is the single most vital device you can use to start enjoying your workouts.

It’s so simple to use and it can transform the way you feel about getting fit. It can take you from resisting the whole thought of doing a daily workout, to your really looking forward to it and wanting to do it more.

Why?

Because, after using it for a while, you start to realize that your daily targets are not only achievable but, with a bit more effort, can be easily surpassed.

Something you thought was going to be such a grind becomes simple, because you know you can do it!

Did you ever reckon that was possible?

Well it is. Just get hold of your pedometer and keep wearing it. It can have a really positive effect on your fitness and health.

Originally posted 2009-11-13 21:22:12. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Motivation and Setting Your Goals

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:08 +0000

Goal setting is the right secret to success in any area of life. Setting your goals may seem simple, achieving them usually is another question altogether. Why is that?

Because you will never achieve your goals unless you:
(1) know exactly what you want,
(2) are passionate about your goal, and
(3) have a solid, realistic plot of action.

This is what marks the difference between nebulous dreams and wishes – and truly achievable goals!

Here are 5 time-tested methods that will help get the success you deserve.

1. Know exactly what your goal is

Your first job is to learn exactly what your goal is. What will achieving that goal really look like? Be as specific as possible about exactly what your desired end result is. Your success will be a measure of your clarity – since an achievable goal plot cannot be made around a nebulous “dream.”

If your goal is to make a more successful business, what will that look like? Are you thinking in terms of simply hiring someone else to give you more free time? Are you looking for a very specific monthly profit? Or can your goal be best expressed in terms of a certain lifestyle? Regardless of what you want, the best way to get it is to first clarify exactly what you want in as much detail as possible. This can be hard work. But without a clear mental picture, you’ll never have the focus required to achieve your goal.

2. Be willing to pay the “entry fee”

Success takes dedicated plotting and effort. In a way it’s like building a house. In the beginning all you have is a rough concept. But there’s always an *entry fee* to be paid for success.

The entry fee?

Making more success in your business may mean less recreational time. Writing your own book may require less TV. Being closer to your children may require adjusting your work or social activities.

3. Focus on your goal every day

Consistent daily focus is absolutely necessary to “burn in” the new neural pathways you need to make your new goal. Without daily focus, the ancient mental habits that have kept you from your goal will continue to take over.

That’s why success is an every-day event. Re-commit to your goal every day. Don’t let your goal take a back seat to the daily tasks and distractions that will try to take over. Life WILL try to get in your way. Just get, and stay, on course every day. Focus on your goal, and on success!

4. Get passionate

One of the most powerful tools in your “success tool box” is having real passion for your goal. Why passion?

Because intense passionate desire for your goal will help you burn in those new neural pathways even quicker. Many, many scientific studies have shown that intense emotion (passion) is a key success tool.

5. Take consistent action

In many ways, really taking action can be the most hard step. Successful goal achievement is built by taking one small action after another.

The word is ACTION!

If you commit to take at least one small action each day, your actions WILL add up and make a difference. So avoid sitting back waiting for that huge second when everything will magically “just happen.”

You CAN make whatever you want in life. The secret is to determine exactly what you want, then pursue it passionately. But remember — in the end, only action counts! You can’t just dream about it! You have to DO IT!

Originally posted 2009-11-11 21:22:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Impact of extrinsic motivation on intrinsic motivation

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:07 +0000

Motivation can be simply defined as the things that induce us to take certain actions or behave in a certain way. It is the why or the reason that drives a person towards a desired goal.

The reasons can be categorized into something that is within us i.e. intrinsic / internal motivation, or something that is external to us i.e. extrinsic / external motivation.

Internal motivation in performing a task occurs when the task in itself is experienced as rewarding and there is no need for any external reward before it is performed. Examples are like of the task, self-satisfaction, sense of achievement, relaxation purpose, etc.

External motivation in performing a task occurs when the task is performed because of an external reward. Examples are praise, recognition, money, stickers, grades, material rewards, etc.

Motivation can be seen as a continuum from being externally driven to becoming more internally driven. All of us start off in life being externally driven. Remember how many children are bribed with sweets or stickers, and do things to get praise from adults. But as we mature and our material needs become more satisfied, we become more internally driven. Though intrinsic motivation is generally accepted as being better as it is within the internal control of the person, external motivation is useful in helping a person initially to get on a task when he does not feel intrinsically motivated to do so.

But, the excessive use of external motivation might have detrimental effects. This has been shown in research or experiments that examine the effects of external reward on an internally motivated task.

The 1973 paper “Undermining children’s intrinsic interest with extrinsic rewards: A test of the overjustification hypothesis” by M Lepper, D Green & R Nisbett, reported an fascinating experimental observation. During children’s free-play time, a fun drawing activity was introduced. They observed the children playing and selected those children who appeared to find intrinsic satisfaction in drawing. These children were placed under three different conditions.

Condition 1: “Excellent Player” certificate was shown to some of the children, and questioned if they want to draw to win the certificate.

Condition 2: Some children were given the opportunity to simply engage in drawing and the children were given the “Excellent Player” certificate unexpectedly.

Condition 3: Some children simply drew without expecting or receiving any reward.

Two weeks later, all these children were again allowed to engage in the drawing activity. The result was fascinating. It was found that the children who chose to draw for the reward showed less interest in drawing, and also when the reward was withdrawn, these children simply stopped drawing. Children in the other two conditions showed no significant change in their interest in drawing. The result seems to suggest that the external reward of a “Excellent Player” certificate ruined the original intrinsic motivation for drawing.

In 1975, EL Deci reported his research findings in the paper “Intrinsic motivation”, that when people were given rewards for pursuing intrinsically satisfying goals, decreased motivation was the result. The result seems to suggest that if people already delight in what they are doing, giving rewards for their engaging in this activity can act as a deterrent in continuing with that activity.

These two reports seem to suggest that external rewards can ruin intrinsic motivation. There is therefore the danger of “overjustification” in our enthusiasm to motivate excellent performance through rewards.

What are the lessons that we can learn in motivating our children, students or subordinates? Suggestions are:

1. Develop intrinsic motivation for tasks, e.g. by providing a safe environment for them to pursue their own interests without undue interference.
2. Encourage intrinsic motivation for tasks e.g. providing opportunities for sharing of work and of the personal satisfaction gained.
3. Provide external rewards sparingly, and without giving expectations for it.

References:

1. http://www.succezz.com/S2/ForbiddenPsychologicalTactics.html
2. http://www.succezz.com/S2/Confessionsofawebsitecopywriter.html
3. http://www.succezz.com/S2/MotivateYourWayToSuccess.html

Originally posted 2009-11-09 21:22:43. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Intrinsic Motivation

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:06 +0000

Intrinsic motivation has been studied by experts since the 1970s and research suggests that intrinsic motivation occurs as a result of a person’s achievement in something and enjoyment. For example, if a person does well in his/her driving test then he/she will become more motivated to drive in the long-term as a result of this achievement.

Another factor that will help an individual increase motivation through intrinsic factors is when a person wants to solve problems on their own as a result of their energy, passion and hard work. Moreover, situations like this can help a person become more and more motivated in the future as a result of the internal efforts of the individual.

Another result of intrinsic motivation is when a person is passionate about something. For example, a person who is passionate about football or soccer would be motivated to either train youngsters play the game or join a local team as a result of their passion. Furthermore, the motivation comes from within the person and this might be down to from an early age or might be down to other factors. Nevertheless, the more an individual uses his/her own efforts to do something the more motivated that person becomes.

Some authors distinguish between two forms of intrinsic motivation: one based on enjoyment, the other on obligation. In this context, obligation refers to motivation based on what an individual thinks ought to be done. For instance, a feeling of responsibility for a mission may lead to helping others beyond what is easily observable, rewarded, or fun.

Intrinsic motivation has been studied by educational psychologists since the 1970s, and numerous studies have found it to be associated with high educational achievement and enjoyment by students. There is currently no universal theory to clarify the origin or elements of intrinsic motivation, and most explanations combine elements of Fritz Heider’s attribution theory, Bandura’s work on self-efficacy and other studies relating to locus of control and goal orientation.

Originally posted 2009-11-05 21:23:09. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Hypnotherapy For Motivation – Getting The Drive Back!

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:05 +0000

Motivation is the key to positivity in our lives. If we were not motivated enough, we would just not have the will in us to go about our daily lives. Its motivation that helps us get through the most mundane things – motivation for working harder, motivation to have a healthy relationship, motivation to earn more, motivation to have a pleased family. And yet sometimes we find ourselves lacking in motivation; I reckon we have all had days when getting out of bed to get ready to go to work seemed like a Herculean task. Sometimes lack of motivation can really bring people down, and hinder their efficiency and ability. This may lead to frustrations and further breakdown of communication between people. But, if you intercept this lack of motivation timely, you have help at hand. Go for hypnotherapy for motivation to get the zest in life back.

Hypnotherapy is intrinsically related to the concept of motivation, and can help you in every walk of life. From motivation in sports, to business; from quitting smoking to losing weight, hypnotherapy for motivation could help you out. But here’s the catch: you can reckon of successfully motivating yourself only once you have your goals identified. Identification of a goal is very necessary before you start motivating yourself. Motivation is all about helping you realize your right potential, sometimes this potential gets thwarted by certain experiences in our lives. Hypnotherapy for motivation works towards removing those mental blockages by connecting with your subconscious.

Hypnotherapy is based on the formula of auto suggestion, and it works on deeper levels than one can imagine. Hypnotherapy for motivation converses with your subconscious mind, and urges it to alter self-perception and self – image. Unknown to us, our subconscious is largely responsible for the way we reckon and react; if we train it to reckon on a different line, no doubt the accompanying behavior would change too. It understands the right potential that lies within us, and taps into it. Through gentle affirmations such as “I can do it”, it retrains your mind into believing that nothing is impossible.

In my practice at Oxfordshire, I have helped clients deal with a variety of issues through hypnotherapy for motivation. Some wanted to perform better at work, while others needed motivation to keep a relationship going. Some wanted to perform better at sports, while others at studies. The underlying theory of hypnotherapy is based on motivation, and we need it in every walk of life. But, we need to have our goals clear in our minds for the hypnotherapy to be successful. Hypnotherapy for motivation lets you focus on the particular task at hand, but if the task is undefined, hypnotherapy will be rendered ineffective.

Hypnotherapy for motivation can seem to be too simple a solution for these problems; but you will be surprised at their effectiveness. Once you started this journey of self discovery, you will see the changes in a small time. Through altering self-perception and self-image, hypnotherapy gives you a whole new view of the world. From being a procrastinating person, you can go on to become a self starter. So define your goals now, and dive into the vast sea of your subconscious mind through hypnotherapy. The pearls you will find there will take care of every situation and possibility in life. Pleased Self Discovery!

Originally posted 2009-11-03 21:23:25. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Control Your Own Level of Motivation

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:04 +0000

When I first mention this to most people, they really don’t get it, so here is a simple formula for keeping your moods upbeat.

Audio books and music can be used as tools for motivation. The audio book is such a fantastic motivational and learning tool, while you are commuting, or just out for a drive by yourself. I mention “by yourself” because, ideally, you should spend quality time with people in your car.

You can learn so much about life and a self-improvement audio book can keep you motivated all day long.

When I first started listening to audio books it was during commuter traffic through Providence and Boston. I would show up to meetings relaxed, with fresh thoughts, and motivated. When people questioned me the secret, I told them about the magic of audio books.

Most of them never questioned me again, thought I was some weird eternal optimist, and never bothered to try an audio book.
Unfortunately, many people are slaves to stress, and don’t want to change anything. They go about their lives with a perfect recipe for a heart attack and high blood pressure.

Here is the ultimate recipe for a very sad and small life. You must combine “running late” to work, high volume traffic, the daily latte, a high stress job, and show up barely on time or late.

Some people are, what I call, “mad at the world.” They drive from one intersection to the next, making gestures at everyone. Some of these people can be helped, while others go through a daily cycle of frustration and even invite violence.

Now, let’s get back to you. As long as you stay aware, you have control over your motivation, moods, and level of optimism. So, take charge by plugging yourself into positive energy with books, audio books, music, and positive people.

Originally posted 2009-11-01 21:23:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Kindness and Motivation Tips Challenge Groups to Make a Difference

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:03 +0000

Do you belong to a group that helps make a difference in people’s lives? Does your group struggle to find ways to help others? Tired of the same ancient Bake Sale-Car Wash routine?

Below are five thoughts your group can use to make a difference.
These come from the e-book, “101 Ways to Change the World”.

1. Organize a Group or Neighborhood Yard Sale and contribute the proceeds to a worthy cause. One neighborhood
adopted an orphanage in Thailand and worked together to send thousands of dollars from their garage sale. In addition to the money they sent, neighbors became closer and new friendships were made.

2. Organize a Homeless Shelter (or other needy group) Scavenger Hunt. You’ll need a group of people – the more, the
better.

Call the Homeless Shelter or group and question for a list of needs

Question them to place the things they need most or get the least of at the top of the list.

Assign point values to each item – with the most-needed items getting the most point value.

Send everyone out with their lists – let them know that the team or person that makes the most points with what they bring in, will win the contest.

Either place up a prize yourself or question a local restaurant if they will provide a free meal to the winners.

Younger adults really delight in the search for items and what a fantastic lesson – it’s fun to give to others!

3. Have a Toy Drive for a local Battered Women’s Shelter, Safe House or Homeless Shelter that has kids. The toys don’t have to be new.

Have members go around their neighborhoods

Question each family to donate ‘gently used’ toys their kids don’t use anymore. There will be tons – what a fantastic way to involve kids in the joy of giving!4. If you play a sport, have your teammates bring in their ancient equipment. Much of it will still be in excellent shape.

Donate it to a team in a less fortunate part of town

Find a group overseas to receive the equipment for teams in their own country5. A group of 50 of classmates went to their Community Center.

They painted it, fixed the chairs, and basketball hoops.

They bought more balls and equipment with money raised from a School Rummage and Bake Sale.

They repainted the lines on the courts and planted some flowering plants in the front.

A few dads repaired the Jungle Gym, the slide and the swings out back.

Then they painted all of them rainbow colors and weeded the back lot.They had a lot of fun and made a huge difference at the same time! And the children learned the value of caring about others.

Remember, your ability to make a difference depends on your choice to do it.
It’s just that simple. So visit http://www.101WaysSeries.com and download a copy of the e-book, “101 Ways to Change the World. Choose the ways you want to make a difference and then DO THEM!

Originally posted 2009-10-30 21:24:15. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

‘Greed Is Good’ – Remuneration, Motivation And Organisation

aldo — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:37:02 +0000

The 1980’s business culture in the USA and internationally place a considerable emphasis on personal reward on the basis that highly motivated individuals could transform organisations and societies. The extreme example in film was Gordon Gekko in Wall Street stating that greed was excellent. The 90’s, but, have seen companies traumatised and bankrupted by the inappropriate use of remuneration as a motivator. Yet major corporate successes have been built on reward based remuneration systems. Phones4U recently and Allied Dunbar in the financial services market is an earlier example.

The notorious Barings Bank had individual traders on bonuses in the millions yet in the long term these motivated individuals were not fulfilling the company’s objectives. Moreover even when an individual’s reward system is based on entirely appropriate performance indicators, resulting in the organisation’s success and he or she is rewarded, there may still be problems arising from the large differential between salaries of senior people and those of middle management. A payment system that depresses or demotivates 10 people for every one it motivates may not be the best for the organisation.

Wise organisations are therefore trying to reward and motivate all staff so that staff act energetically to further the corporation’s interests both small and long term and feel they have been treated honestly. But there must be properly in place the link between the items on which they are being rewarded and the actions they are able to take to influence the desired outcome.

A wise organisation accepts that:

• It is reasonable for the individual manager to act in his or her own interests.
• Managers work for people not organisations and want to please the superiors closest to them, or failing that, their peer group.
• Managers want to achieve and will be attracted to those tasks at which they know they can succeed, usually favouring the small term at the expense of the long term.

The clear implication is that an organisation should lay some groundwork before relying on a remuneration structure to change performance and behaviour. In other words the management and organisation system must be in balance with the remuneration system.

There are 5 major pre-conditions to the installation of an effective reward structure.

1. Measurement: “If you don’t measure it you won’t get it”. There are various measurement systems of which Balanced Scorecard, which sets multiple objectives and is used by Tesco, is perhaps the best known.

2. Monitoring: If the performance measures are not monitored properly or only monitored in a review at the year end, it can give the manager signals that they don’t really matter or, worse still, that failure is acceptable providing all the managers fail together.

3. Control of the tools for the job: The organisation must ensure that the individual is not over dependent on factors outside his control to achieve the performance measures set out (this is the ‘how’ part of the equation).

4. Consistency: Ensuring that small term organisational factors don’t over-influence managers or drive them from their real objective. The organisation must also ensure that its own design (be it bureaucratic or loose) is appropriate to what is being questioned of managers.

5. Reward and strategy in line: An organisation’s achieving a clear strategy is not an event that will take place in the future; it is a journey. A remuneration system can be place into an organisation even when it has a relatively muddled strategy providing that organisational and management disputes are resolved by reference to strategy and the “balanced score card”. Only then will there be pressure on the organisation to refine its strategy, structure and remuneration systems.

Based on these 5 pre conditions, there is a checklist of 10 factors that the effective remuneration and reward structure must achieve:

1. Support the business strategy
2. Encourage the desired behaviour
3. Reward relevant performance
4. Be honest
5. Be substantial
6. Be tax efficient
7. Be timely (The reward must take place close to the achievement)
8. Incorporate non financial rewards (Recognition can be as vital as cash)
9. Be firm (A bonus lost through missing target should not be recoverable whereas a salary increase should only be delayed until target is reached)
10. Be crystal clear

Originally posted 2009-10-27 21:24:30. Republished by Blog Post Promoter