At first, I would argue that it might be too philosophical. It might be too unrealistic for someone (like me) that is still finding joy in all the materialistic gadgets of the world. But, I must admit that the more I think about it, I find it makes great sense regardless one is living “in the world” or “out of the world”, if you know what I mean. And, that is the reason why I wait till now to share this with you.

It all starts with a point of view. By paying attention to others’ interests first, I would take the position to serve, rather than being served. I would choose to do things that “add value” to others. It aligns with the notion than ‘giving is always better than receiving”.

There have been great examples of this paradigm. For one, Jesus has been the greatest giver of all. His whole purpose to this world is to serve others. The like of Mother Teresa, Gandhi, Dale Carnegie are other fine examples of “living for the benefit of others”. (p.s. you might think of other good examples too. If you do, please write back as we can never have enough of an inspiration.)

By following this paradigm, I have found a new motivation and guidance in doing things that I could have left out. For instance, I have joined the volunteer work to do “meals on wheels” in the community, and possibly some medical transports down the track. There is nothing to boast about, really. But for me, they are important first steps. Where it would lead me to, only God will know. As for the present, I am happier because it adds a little bit extra to my purpose in life.

Live Life, Junius.

Crossing the Finish

This is the question I posted on the Facebook, Twitter, and some other social websites when I was doing the fund raising for the Aboriginal Children’s Advancement Society last week.

The fund raising was done in conjunction with a 10km running event, the “Run4Fun” organized by the Sun-Herald, a leading newspaper in Sydney.  All donations had to be made via the direct link provided by the organizer online.  It was a perfect way of using the internet to address the appeal to many within the shortest possible time, so I thought.

Whilst we started late in the fundraising, I was hopeful that the power of the internet would make a difference.  After all, we only targeted $1 each from 10,000 people.

As it turned out, we didn’t even receive one single dollar from anyone via this channel.  All the donations were from people we know personally.  Quite frankly, I was a little bit disappointed because it was such a good cause and there shouldn’t be any resistance not to do so.

Perhaps I could only attribute the following as reasons for the outcome.
a/ not enough time?  (the fundraising page was up just three days before the event)
b/ people were not familiar with the charity organization, and were too busy to follow through.
c/ people were skeptical about paying by credit card or paypal.

As for the run, it was fantastic, more so because it was my first time.  Having a chance to run into the ANZ Stadium for the last 100 metres with the audience on-looking was awesome.  It is like putting myself in the shoes of the Olympians running into the Stadium at the Year 2000 Sydney Olympic.

We ended up raising $710 for the Society. Thanks again to all those who had made this possible.

Live Life,
Junius
P.S.  the picture on the left was taken when I and my friend had crossed the finishing line.

Argo with his winning entry "Delicacy"

clipped from northern-district-times.whereilive.com.au Sculptor’s top prize HONG Kong born sculptor Argo Wai Ping Ho, now living in Carlingford, has won the top prize at the Darling Park Exhibition 2009 organised by the Sculptors Society. The Franco Belgiorno Nettis Transfield Holdings Prize was awarded to Ho’s bronze sculpture Delicacy. Ho is the first Asian winner of this prize in the competition. Judge of the award his year, founding director of the Sculpture by the Sea, David Handley, said Ho’s Delicacy was abstract and unique in its mechanical structure. Darling Park Exhibition is an annual key event of the Sculptors Society and has been running for 14 years. This year, more than 90 sculptors and 240 sculptures were accepted in the exhibition. The Darling Park Sculpture Exhibition runs until September 5 at Darling Park, Gallery Level, 201 Sussex St (corner Market St, up from Cockle Bay), from 8am to 6pm. You can view more of Argo Wai Ping Ho’s work at his website: argoho.wordpress.com

WordPress Goldmine

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In the following passages, I want to share with you my experience with the WordPress Goldmine training tool. I believe the information would be valuable to people particularly the newbies looking for a low-cost but effective learning tool.

WordPress Goldmine is an ebook about how to build your domain and monetize it using WordPress themes. The ebook is good, but what impresses me the most is the forum that comes with it. Membership is free, and it provides a platform of continuous learning using videos and live examples.

This concept of interactive learning through a forum is not so new.  But, what makes this one a stand-out is the openness of the proprietor, Mark Thompson, in sharing his tactics and techniques.  You can feel his energy and his dedication in putting together quality materials for the forum on a regular basis, not just on basics but on current day hot topics as well.

My comment would not be complete without a mention on the fellow participants to the forum.  They are a wonderful bunch, and are always willing to share their own experience and knowledge.  Good on them.

Internet is a huge platform and surely more and more people would be coming along to monetize it.  I feel that information like this would be important pointers for whoever wanting to fast track their learning curve in a simple but effective manner.  I feel strongly about it because I had learnt it the hard way only to find that the price tag might not be a good indicator of quality after all.

Live life,
Junius

A friend recently asked me a question.  He was curious why suddenly I became so much into traveling and photography.  Quite frankly, these are the things I like to do for a long time, only that I can afford to do it more often now.  It is one of the reasons why I am so passionately promoting passive income streams.

I have just uploaded a video to YouTube on our recent visit to the Sleepy Bay in the Freycinet National Park of Tasmania.  I video-taped it because it was so scenic.  I had of course done some photos as well which I hope I would be sharing with you some other time.

The beauty of the Freycinet region on the East coast of Tasmania is a common knowledge for people traveling in this part of the world.  However, when people come, they seem to set their eyes on places like the Wineglass Bay, Coles Bay, and perhaps even the Hazards Beach.  The Sleepy Bay, somehow, has not received as much attention as it should rightly deserve.  In my opinion, it is still a hidden gem.

So, please check out the video and perhaps you would tell me what you think about the scenery there.

Live Life,  Junius.

This is arguably one of the big things happening in the internet world this year.  Google Wave is Google’s new creation and will be officially released in a matter of months from now.

It is a real-time communication platform that virtually embraces all forms of internet communication today, whether it be email, web chat, instant messaging, social networking, or project management etc.  It is a convergence spot.  It is mind-blowing.  I am sure a lot of the internet elites out there are already working on how to monetize this new medium.

I have done some research on the subject.  In case you want to do something similar, a good starting point would be this video I have here for you.  You wouldn’t like to miss out anything in this 1 hour 20 min presentation.

Further research?  Check out:
The official Google Blog -- http://googleblog.blogspot.com; and
The website Mashable by Ben Parr: http://mashable.com/2009/05/28/google-wave-guide/

Love Life,
Junius
p.s. Like many things, the internet is never an equal playing field.  Knowledge and wisdom will always have an unfair advantage.

For those of you who like watching waterfalls, I have a great place to recommend: the Russell Falls in Tasmania.  It is part of the Mount Field National Park and is located less than two hours northwest of Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania.

The video that you see here was taken last week when my wife and I were traveling in that part of the country.  We drove around and in the last days of our holiday, we took a diversion to see the Falls on the way back from Queenstown to Hobart.

The day started with a moderate chill, an overcast weather, and an occasional drizzle.  By the time we got to the National Park, it was around 4pm in the afternoon.  We quickly found our way into the rainforest.  It was a walk of about ten to fifteen minutes to the Falls.  This rainforest is very special.  It has very tall and BIG trees --- something that we noticed almost immediately when we started the walk.  The trunks of some of the big ones could easily require four or five people to cover the full circumference.  The air was remarkably pure and fresh.  At times, we could see wallabies moving about in a close distance. These gentle creatures didn’t seem to be bothered by our presence.

As we walked further, the sound of waterfalls was becoming louder.  And, almost suddenly, the beautiful Russell Falls was right before our eyes!  The Falls is beautiful because everything looks so symmetrical and in the right places. It has three levels allowing the water cascading down.  With so much water thundering down the path that day, the sound, the wind, and the mist it so created in that space were remarkable.  For a moment, we couldn’t help feeling small and at the mercy of nature.

There is a strong sense of serenity in the surround, but everything seemed more coming to life. Even the fern trees nearby were waving and dancing so happily.  It was a blessing to be there sharing the serenity and the simple happiness of being so close to nature.

Live Life,
Junius.

P.S. If you happen to be in that National Park, don’t forget to visit two other falls as well.  I was told that at least one of them is equally spectacular.

This week is Australia’s NSW Seniors Week.  Now into its 50th year, it celebrates the valuable contribution seniors make to the community. The motto this year is “Live Life.”  What a co-incidence.

I have taken a lazy approach this time to browse the net and collect quotes from wherever on the subject of “live life”. I hope it could add some extra spices into someone’s definition about life.

There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a miracle.  The other is as though everything is a miracle.  – Albert Einstein.

To live life well is to take positive steps to maximize your chances of living an illness free life.  – www.livelifewell.nsw.gov.au

Live life fully while you’re here.  Experience everything.  Take care of yourself and your friends.  Have fun, be crazy, be weird.  Go out and screw up!  You’re going to anyway, so you might as well enjoy the process.  Take the opportunity to learn from your mistakes: find the cause of your problem and eliminate it.  Don’t try to be perfect; just be an excellent example of being human.  – Anthony Robbins

Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without a spiritual life.  – Buddha

Nobody gets to live life backward.  Look ahead, that is where your future lies.  – Ann Landers

Live as if you were to die tomorrow.  Learn as if you were to live forever. – Gandhiji

We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.  – Winston Churchill.

And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count.  It’s the life in your years.  – Abraham Lincoln.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. further information, visit www.nswseniorsweek.com.au

Picture: from Reuters and The Australian

Since September last year, “global financial crisis” have become the operative words of our days.  Hardly a day comes by without hearing something about these three words.  Just two days ago, I come across the acronym version, “GFC”, from the television.  Perhaps it could make us feel less threatened, or distressed by the sound of it.

Governments have not been slow in rendering rescue plans.  The like of bailout or stimulus packages are all targeted to encourage consumption, retain jobs, and hopefully create enough fuel to keep the economies running above the recession line.  Though some allocations might be debatable, their spirit is commendable.

If anything, I would like to see more in the area of restoring confidence, trust, and hope.
More than ever, it is time to revisit these traditional values that underlie a healthy business environment.

The global financial crisis is also a confidence crisis.  It is a financial tsunami because it was fuelled by excessive borrowing, excessive leverage, complicated forms of derivatives, a gambling mentality, and an over-heated property market, among other things.  Leverage is good, but excess leverage is disastrous. Risk management has been thrown out of the window.  Just a few days ago, I learnt from a TV interview that some banks actually were able to lend sixty (60) times more than its money reserve.  No wonder when the tides turned, it could hurt so badly.

Put confidence and trust back into the system
Confidence and trust are the cornerstones of any relationship, and business is no exception.  When consumer confidence (and indeed, business confidence) and trust are at stake, surely the restoration of these elements should be placed amongst the highest priorities.

Everyday, there are no shortage of news and announcements telling everyone that the worse has yet to come.  What if, someone can tell us that, despite the uncertainty, enough parameters have been set in place to stop all those “funny, irresponsible deals” at the far end? In other words, we are not allowing further damaging factors to the system.  Would it be a comforting message to hear? Would it shed a light of hope that we badly need?

Needless to say, that someone would aptly be the government.  Any such assurance or re-assurance is definitely welcoming. I bet it would be cost effective too.

Putting integrity in place
On the same token, if there is something that the government could do to expose or  eliminate ponzi schemes, the like of Bernard Madoff’s and Allen Stanford’s, how far-reaching can it be to boost morale and confidence level of its communities?

Not talking down the economy
Whilst it is important to build confidence and trust and hope, it is equally important not to spread the seed of fear.  It is a particular trying time for the media, let alone the government, to inform but not to over-exaggerate.

Reform the system, and cut out red-tapes
Bad times can also be good times in the sense that it offers a great opportunity to reflect and reshape for a better future.  There is a lot of scope for a responsible, and proactive government.

Let transparency flow through the system
Transparency casts away doubt and helps building confidence and credibility.

Enhance collaboration across countries and governments
Global problem needs global solution.  It is a time that collaboration among governments would be most needed.  It is the synergy effect.  If anything works, it would work better in a collaborated fashion.

Lead with vision
We like leaders with vision, more so in extreme times.  We hope that our leaders would look beyond the financial hole and work together towards a new order of world peace,  harmony, and prosperity.

A time to transform
Last but not the least, let’s not be too distressful, but be hopeful and thankful that we are part of an era of enlightenment, meeting new challenges, and overcoming obstacles, and coming out stronger and better overall.

Live Life, Junius.

This happened to a native tribe somewhere in South America.  For generations, the tribe people had been suffering from some kind of strange illness and people were dying at very young age.

A team of scientists and medical professionals were sent to check out.  They soon discovered that the cause of the illness / disease was due to the infestation of particular insects living inside the walls of the clay homes.  They advised the tribe people to either
a/ destroy the insects with a pesticide, or
b/ demolish the infested clay homes and rebuild, or
c/  move to a new location away from the threat of these insects.
Otherwise, they would continue to be the victim of the infestation and premature deaths.

To everybody’s surprise, the tribe people chose NOT to do anything.  They would rather take the easy way out by doing nothing!

The reality is full of similar stories.  We call it the “average people syndrome”.  Typically, they procrastinate, defer action, and like to think that whatever problem happening around is more someone else’s.  They don’t want to think too far.  Change is a frightening word.

Despite all this, sometimes what these people need is a little push at the right time, and they are well and truly on their way to own back their life.  It is a gratifying experience.

Live Life, Junius.

a beautiful breed called idea-idea from Malaysia

This is a scary thought.

Consider this prediction from some of the management gurus like Tom Peters:
“Ninety percent of white-collar jobs as we know them (and, ultimately, 90 percent of  all jobs as we know them) will be disemboweled in the next 15 years (from 2005).  Done. Gone. Kaput.  Between the microprocessor, 60/60/24/7 connectivity, and outsourcing to developing countries, the developed nations’ white-collar jobs are …doomed.  Time frame?  Zero to 15 or 20 years.  How confident am I on this point?  Totally.”

Scary because of the magnitude of change.  Scary because it is so imminent.  For most of us, we would definitely survive the next fifteen, twenty years to witness this if it is going to happen.

Whilst some people might be questioning the validity of the prediction, I choose to follow this “hypothesis” as my starting point.  The question to me is “what if?”

I am convinced that the speed of things moving forward would be faster and faster.  Looking back the last 15 years can be a good reflection of how fast changes can come.  The like of ATM machines, airline bookings, fund transfers, smart cards, e-tag, e-bay, out-sourcing, and virtual offices, have given a picture how fast and widespread information technology and globalization have changed the landscape of doing business.

The changes will certainly affect everyone, particularly so for the ones currently under the age of 40.  Sometime during their most productive years, they would have to face dramatic changes in the way the “new economy” works.  How most people weather that is still a big puzzle.  But, this would be an area very well-worth planning for.  I am talking not just talking in terms of a personal prospective, but from a community, and indeed from a government standpoint.

As much as changes can be nerve-racking, no small number of people would look at them as blessings in disguise.  These people are called “entrepreneurs”.

Live Life, Junius.

source: www.guardian.co.uk

There is no shortage of shocking news around the world these days. Just the last two days, we have heard of a plane crash in New York, and another one in London. As for Australia, it has more than a fair share of the natural disasters. I am talking about the flooding in the northern part in the State of Queensland, and the bushfire in the State of Victoria. In the span of a week, the latter has scorched over 450,000 hectares of land, and wiped out over 1,800 homes, caused 181 deaths, and over 7,000 people homeless.  As expected, the final number in the death toll will definitely be a lot higher.

Time and again, events like these remind us how vulnerable human lives can be.  Amid the mourning and sighs over the loss of family, friends, property, and life-earned possessions, there are stories of courage and love.  We are particularly touched by the work carried out by the voluntary bodies like the CFA (Country Fire Association) and the Red Cross. I am sure that there are numerous other unsung heroes out there who have helped in every big and small way to bring people under shelter and away from danger. We salute to these guys who have done so much for the benefits of the others.

Staying in the comfort of my home in Sydney, I question how much do I (or can I) understand the anxiety and despair experienced by those people in the danger zone there. I can tell you now that I come to know a bit more after I stumbled across the blog site called The Professional Hobo by Nora and Kelly.  Nora’s experience of the first day of the fire in the neighbourhood of Taggerty gave us a vivid picture about the dangers of living in the bush.

From the media, we learnt that the high death toll is because a lot of people hadn’t had enough time to respond.  The velocity with which the fire spread was beyond what many have perceived. This could be seen by the way people fled.  They barely had the time to gather their valuables.

To the people who unfortunately are amidst these trauma and loss, our heart goes to you and your family. We feel your pain.  Even in your darkest moments, please be reassured that there is always a loving GOD up there, willing and able, to listen and give you peace and strength.  Just pray to HIM and you will find.  Amen.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. In collaboration with the Victorian State government, the Australian Red Cross has been more than prompt to provide assistance to all affected by the devastating bushfires in Victoria. You can make a secure donation by going to their website at http://www.redcross.org.au/default.asp

Firstly, think in terms of multiplication, not “addition and subtraction”. Whilst most people know the importance of compounding and duplication, many of them that I come across tend to focus on getting numbers.  Getting numbers is definitely good, but making duplication work even with smaller numbers is actually even better.  People come and go for various reasons. It is duplication that can make a lasting impact on the business.  A successful business can be as easy (or difficult) as finding 2-5 serious people and teaching them to do the same. Period.

Secondly, think in terms of building a residual income stream, not just extra income. How often do we tell our new people how they should look at the first cheque they receive in the first month?  Earning residual income is like earning interest on money in a bank.  Taking interest rate at 3% per annum, a first cheque for as little as  $50 could mean that you have effectively built a $20,000 deposit in the bank.  And $500 a month would mean $200, 000 in the bank….and so on.  Is this “pool of money” worth working for?  It is your choice.

Network marketing (or MLM) is a people business.  I find it fascinating because it makes me think more about people, about others, about myself, about relations, about human nature, about love, and about life….more so than any other things I do in the past.  It is a good way to learn how to lead a happier life, and build better relationships.

In the spirit of the late Nadine Stair, we cannot go wrong, can we?
“I'd make more mistakes next time. I would be sillier. I would take fewer things seriously. I would take more chances. I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers. I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but I’d have fewer imaginary ones……. I would travel lighter than I have. I would pick more daisies.”

If I can pick more cash as well, even better.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. Thanks to my friend Danny, I had the opportunity of viewing Tim Sales’ latest video recording on Brilliant Compensation.  I find it an incredible educational tool on the subject of network marketing (or MLM).  The video lasts for about one and a half hours, but the time is definitely worth spending for.  You can click on the link and check it out for yourself.

As it is easy to come in, a lot of people come in, but they are mostly in for the wrong reasons.

People come in because they are just curious.

People come in because they want to try their luck. Like buying a lottery ticket. Some people might just think that all they need to do is to get the first positions in the queue and wait for things to happen.

People come in because they feel that they can quickly “grab heads”.  Selling is not an issue and they have a good network.

People come in because they just “give face” to their friends or clients.

People come in because they simply have nothing to do …..

These are all the wrong reasons!  Can you recall any substantial accomplishment resulted from such “hanging loose” mentality?

What would make it work? Very simply two things:
a/ acknowledge the value of this business to you, and
b/ apply the success formula: apply the right method and be persistent with it.

The value of network marketing (or MLM), or any other passive income choices for that matter, is to offer to you a choice of the next degree of freedom, the chance to realize your dreams, and a means to an end, to the very things that you are passionate about, and to all the things that you know you would not be able to accomplish on your current endeavors.

The notion of passive income (or residual income as it is sometimes called) needs no convincing. People see the benefits of continuous income stream(s) without having to work all the time.  The idea of “having money coming in whilst you are sleeping” sounds even sweeter.

People see the benefit of having a “spare tyre”.  Likewise, people see the benefit of growing fruit trees alongside their vegetable patches.

People see the benefit of having a pipeline instead of endlessly carrying buckets.  “One day, I will be free.”

If you can identify and acknowledge the true value of these things to you, make a decision and go with it. Ride in the simple spirit of the child.  Work in the company of like-minded people.  Have faith and follow the steps.  Sooner than you think, you would be able to taste the sweetness of success.

We are given one life.  Would we settle for mediocrity?

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. Let’s quietly accept the fact that it is human nature that most would not change until catastrophe or crisis hits the door.  These people have cemented in this mind that certain things are not for them.  The Farari or the Lambogini is not for them.  The freedom to wake up anytime of the day without an alarm clock, the freedom to spend as much time with the kids in their upbringing, the freedom to live like a child is not for them.  These people would not even look for the swinging door.

He is never shy to share his story.  He openly admits that he is very fortunate to have run into the network marketing (or MLM) business some seven years ago.  The passive income is good but to him, what counts the most is the personal development side of the business.  Like most of us, he said, he has never come to know so many good books, tapes, and other materials on health, wealth, life, abundance mindset, and success principles, etc.  He has definitely reached a higher level of enlightenment.

The learning puts a focus back on one’s own self.  The value lies in “making your life better by making other’s life better”.  We learn that virtually everything can be possible, only if we dare to dream and make things happen.  We learn to see a glass as half full instead of half empty. A lot of these things, unfortunately, are not taught in schools.

In a changing world, the degree of success depends on the speed we learn.

What has motivated George so much is the new found belief that he sees a greater value in himself. He knows that he can enhance his value by investing more between his two ears, and be able to add better value to others.

Learning completes life. If such knowledge can be so meaningful even to an 85-year-old,
what greater benefits would it draw to the younger age groups?

Live Life, Junius.

Tried asking people in the network marketing (or MLM) industry if they enjoy the work (the keyword here is “enjoy”), you would likely find totally opposite answers.  A lot of times, their “happiness” hinges on the outcome of their selling, or the success rate of their sponsoring new people into the company they represent.  Along the way, some find it hard to deal with rejections, and particularly rejections from their best friends and close families.  They are almost always on an emotional roller coaster ride.

Ask the people outside the network marketing (or MLM) industry. Almost all would perceive network marketing (or MLM) as a selling thing, to the point that they picture people casually do aggressive selling in the streets. As most people are not sales-types, they don’t like selling and they don’t like to be sold either.  As such, network marketing (or MLM) is not going to be anything exciting for them.

People earning good income and status from traditional professions or businesses generally see the excitement of wealth potential that network marketing (or MLM) could bring.  However, a lot of them cannot go past the idea of them “selling” to the people around them.  It is an ego thing.

I understand because I see it happen all the time.  I was actually part of these people going back some years ago.

Network Marketing (or MLM) can be real fun. It is even addictive if only we get to understand it better.

It is not selling. It is marketing. It is communication.  It is education.  It is consultation.  It is counseling.  It is about filling a need.  It is about providing a solution. (Robert Kiyosaki even said that networking marketing is the perfect business for people who wants helping other people.)

What is the difference between a salesman over the counter and a marketing professor?  One of them is more interested in selling you something regardless whether that something is relevant to you or not.  (I might be exaggerating a bit, but I hope you got the point.)

What about a vitamin sales lady versus a naturopath?

Selling is always short-lived.  If network marketing (or MLM) is all about selling, why don’t we just call the people “salesmen on the road”.  The fact that they are called network marketers is because these people set out to build a consumer base and a network of business partners – something that would last.  It is built on credibility and fulfilling a need.  These people are solution providers.  They are no different to other traditional professionals serving the need of others.

So for those network marketers out there who always do the work in the best interests of their prospects, you have done your industry proud.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. you might like to get a piece of Rich Dad Poor Dad “Robert Kiyosaki”’s mind on the subject of networking marketing here.  Just click the link.

Paul Zane Pilzer -- Creating Fortunes in the New Economy

Network Marketing (or MLM) has been a controversial subject for decades.  The like of aggressive selling tactics, pestering friends and families, and pyramid and ponzi schemes which are all illegal, have all made a bad name on the industry.  These things are unprofessional and have to be condemned.

However, as with most things, network marketing (or MLM) has gone through the test of time and has come to a more matured being.  The industry is now regulated (by the Direct Selling Association) worldwide, with representations in different countries.  The industry has been growing rapidly more so in the recent years.  It is an industry which consists of over 50 million people working part-time or full-time.  More and more people are crossing the line from other professions such as doctors, accountants, consultants, engineers, teachers, dentists, I.T. people, etc.  These people have created a different landscape in the industry, more so in professionalism and sophistication. It is a credible business.

Network marketing (or MLM)’s significance in our economy has never been undermined despite the few shortcomings and bad apples.  It can stand the test of time because it is by far the most viable choice for an average person to succeed in wealth creation.

No wonder Paul Zane Pilzer, the best-selling author on economic trends, predicts that in the ten years from 2006 to 2016, just America alone would witness an additional ten million millionaires from this industry.  The history is in the making.  Would you like to be part of it?  Would you like your children to be part of it?

If network marketing (or MLM) is going to be such a significant force in our economy, it is a pity to see people miss out just because they have dismissed the name “network marketing (or MLM)” on first impression.

Knowledge is powerful and awareness is important.  I would like to touch on some points of understanding on the subject in the next few posts.  As people in the industry, we have every responsibility to make network marketing (or MLM) a respectable profession as it truly deserves.

Live Life, Junius

p.s. the picture shown here is part of the article by Paul Zane Pilzer titled "Creating Fortunes in the New Economy".  Highly recommended reading.  Just click on the link.

When the pendulum is tilted too much to the one side, people will favor things that bring back the equilibrium.  When credibility is at stake, you will see more things to restore credibility, and that in itself is an opportunity.

The core value of Network Marketing (or MLM) is credibility. It is through word-of-mouth or referrals.  Why should I believe in what you say? ….because I know you, and I take you as one that I can trust. This connection is important.

Besides, network marketers are themselves “product of the product”.  In other words, they are users of the products they promote.  This adds credibility.

There is also an element of knowledge transfer in the process, or “intellectual distribution” as Paul Zane Pilzer put it.  For instance, if you are looking for a multivitamin, you would likely get more relevant and in-depth information from the network marketing (MLM) connection than the salesperson over the selling counter.  The value of enhanced knowledge means that the average consumers are better able to select the choice of product that fits their needs.

When a consumer is so happy about the product that he/she doesn’t mind spreading the words around, it could mean the start of a lucrative passive income business.  But, that is another story.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. With Christmas and the New Year just round the corner, my best wishes go to everyone of you and your family for a joyous and safe festive season, and a solid progress in 2009.

part of the eagle statue in Langkawi, Malaysia

Have you heard of the story about the rebirth of the eagle?

Rebirth, as the word implies, contains a notion of shedding the old, and creating a new.  It requires courage and patience.

As we are told, every eagle has to face a once-in-a-lifetime decision to “rebuild” itself.  When an eagle reaches mid-age (which is roughly about 30 years’ old), it has to fly to a mountain top to go through a transformation period of about 5 months.  It would knock off its beak because it is too curly to be of any practical use, and wait for the new one to come out. It would break the talons to allow new ones to come out.  It would then pluck off its feathers, one by one, so as to allow the new feathers to come out.  When this transformation is over, the eagle is in the best form to take on its preys, and enjoys another 30+ years of living.

It sounds tough, doesn’t it?  If the story is true, I think the eagle would do it because it is a question of survival.

In a different situation, we see people go through their own “rebirth” in big and small ways.  Most of the time, it is not for survival, but more for reasons towards goals and aspirations. Regardless what the underlying reasons are, I think the act itself shows a lot of guts and should be commended.  These guys would likely be the happier bunch and live a fuller life of their own definition.

Live Life, Junius.

Come across this song, “Over the Rainbow”, which is beautifully sung by the very talented six-year old Connie Talbot. It is so touching.  I listened to it twice, and each time I was in tears.  Just couldn’t help it.

I would like to dedicate this song and lyrics to those who have lost confidence and direction, or are struggling with some hard issues in life.

xxx

Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high
There's a land that I've heard of once in a lullaby

Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream, really do come true

Some day I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Way above the chimney tops, that's where you'll find me

Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly
Birds fly over the rainbow, why, then, oh why can't I?
If happy little blue birds fly beyond the rainbow
Why oh why, can't I?

xxx

I remember it was only about eight years ago, in 2001 when the I.T. bubble burst.  It was the lowest point of my life.  My entire day-trading had turned from a sheer victory to a complete fiasco in only a matter of days.  I was driven from heaven to hell.  I lost a lot of money, but most importantly, I lost my confidence in myself, and direction.  I can still feel the pain and emptiness.  I paid a big price, and the only thing I could do was to promise myself that I must learn the lesson.

There might be times in life that we fall badly.  What is important is to stand up and move on.  Every cloud has a silver lining.  Somewhere out there is a rainbow waiting for you and me.  I often remind myself that when I am at a low, it is time to get myself polished up and ready for the next high.

Live Life,  Junius.

Source: Diamond Enthusiast Association

I am traveling Hong Kong with my wife at this time. Having been in the city for a week, I had a chance of catching up with my nephew Jack.  He helps his father in his jewelry business.

He told me that the business had benefited a lot because of his forum on the internet.  The forum was created some three years ago providing information on virtually everything regarding diamonds.  The website is called Diamond Enthusiast Association (http://www.diamond.org.hk), with key features including professional knowledge on diamonds, quotation, FAQ, inventory, and specials.  Because of their good support and service, the website has been ranking consistently amongst the top 5 positions in Google search for some time.

This is another example of good marketing.  By creating value to your market, you create bonding, and trust.  When the time comes, it is the bonding and trust which will bring back extra businesses.  It is a win-win situation.

Internet is a huge marketplace. It is here to stay for a long, long time. Internet marketing is attractive because the world is your market and it is limitless. Nevertheless, you can access this entire market at the same time with minimal costs.  It can be an easy venue to start a passive income business too.

For many, it is a viable step towards owning back their life.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. thanks to passive income streams, I can reclaim my freedom and be able to do whatever whenever I like these days. I can look forward to more traveling and photography in the years to come.

2/ Healthy Diet. I would take more fruits and vegetables, all the rainbow colors, and less meat.  I would avoid a lot of the processed food out there, particularly the ones that contains a lot of trans-fats. Whenever possible, I would go for food from a relatively safer source.  I would take food in smaller quantities but more frequently. I would drink a lot of water everyday, about eight cups or 2 litres.

3/ Stress Management. Stress is one of the root causes to many of the chronic degenerative diseases today.  I know that it always helps to have a positive outlook, and a pleasant disposition. I also learn to look at things more to appreciate than to criticize. Being a follower of Christ is the greatest blessing of all. I can always feel the inner peace and the assurance that no matter what happens, I am not on sinking sand.

4/ Quality Nutritional Supplement. Knowing the importance of completeness, balance, and safety of nutritional to the body (see my previous post), I am extremely careful in the choice of products I use. I have been taking supplements for a few years now, and have definitely witnessed a big turnaround in my health.  I can feel my immune system is on the up and up.  I don’t even have flu for more than two years now.  I recall stepping into a health diagnostic machine in the market about 8 months ago. The test revealed my health condition as equivalent to a 32 year old.  I am 57.  I can see that I have so much stamina and look and feel younger everyday.  True health is something I can count on.   You can do it too.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. I must confess that I am a convert to nutritional supplementation.  My health condition has improved so much particularly in this couple of years.  Who would have thought that only about 5 years ago, I had suffered from Bell’s Palsy and a left hand shaking involuntarily like having Parkinson’s Disease?  Really pleased to say that all these are history.  I have “transformed”.

It is a general perception that how we do things leads to what we actually get in the end.  It is a “cause and effect” thing.  However, isn’t that even more appropriate to say that what we conceive or perceive in the first place dictates what we get?

When it comes to health, the same is true.  A lot of people relate to health as “not sick”. In other words, if I am not ill, I am healthy.  As I come to know a few years back, this is very much an entry-point definition.

The far end, more appropriately referred to as true health, is more exciting and meaningful.  It implies that our body parts could always perform at the optimum, regardless of our age.  With this definition, you could expect a body physically fit, and full of vitality even if you reach an age of eighty, ninety, or beyond. You can very well imagine yourself playing some sports with your grandchildren or great grandchildren in one time, and be ready to go traveling in the next.  Sickness is out of question.  It is not a part of aging (or growing older) anyway.

Out of curiosity, I have researched the internet to see what is out there regarding true health. Here are some of them to share with you.

“My one sentence definition of “true health” is that it means feeling well, looking well, being of moderate body weight, and being physically able and active, all achieved without dependency on medications.”  -- Dr. Jeff Clark of http://www.truehealthmedicine.com

“True health is a natural state of freedom, personal choice, responsibility and balance.” – Dr. Bijana Devo of http://www.truehealthmedicine.com

“Dorland’s Medical Dictionary states that true health is a state of optimal physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease.  In other words, health is not limited to how you feel, but rather refers to your level of function and performance as a whole.” – http://www.discoverchiropracticnow.com

With these in mind, would your health regimen be different from now on?

Live Life, Junius.

xxx

In a world filled with sweet scents and blue sky,
lives the gentle, uplifting butterfly,
whose metamorphosis has this truth to teach:
Our aspirations are within our reach.
For this fluttering flyer of soaring worth
was at one time a creature that crawled the earth.

When she climbed a plant and learned of the sky,
She looked down at the earth and wondered why
her destiny was to live on the land.
Something inside her did not understand.
'The sky is my home', every part of her felt
‘How could crawling be the lot I’ve been dealt?’

Keeping those thoughts safe, where they could be found,
She slowly descended back to the ground.
When she found the right plant on which to rest,
She brilliantly wove a cocoon for her nest.
Inside the chrysalis, she went to sleep
tucked in with those thoughts that she wanted to keep...

...One sunny day, the cocoon came unsealed.
Magically, a butterfly was revealed.
Seeing this miracle with my own eyes;
of caterpillars becoming butterflies,
brings real hope of the possibility
of the total transformation of me!

Like the caterpillar that crawls the Earth,
We are destined for a divine rebirth.

xxx

Poems can be such wonderful media for inspiration.  With minimum words, it sets us on a new dimension.

Metamorphosis as in a caterpillar to a butterfly, or a tadpole to an adult frog, can be so magical.  When we look around, there is no shortage of magical things like these.  Are they meant to inspire us, the human kind?

It seems that transformation is a constant.  It happens in us too.  Our skin is replaced every 27 days. And, our entire skeleton is renewed every 2 years. Incredible, isn’t it?

Physical transformation (not deterioration) makes us stronger.  Mental and spiritual transformation completes us as a person.  However, how far we can go remains a personal choice ...

Live Life, Junius.

The incidences of the melamine contamination in milk powder, eggs, chicken feed, and wheat gluten remind us once again the kind of risk that general consumers like you and I are exposed to.

As the way goes, contamination seems an inevitable part of our modern day living.  We kind of accept that vegetables would come with pesticides, the piece of meal on the table might contain some residues of hormones harmful to the body, and virtually all the processed food would have artificial things there including additives, and preservatives.

However, we never can imagine that things could be so sinister and disastrous when it comes to greed by even a few.  Vegetables end up so much contaminated with heavy metal just because someone takes the easy way out using industrial waste/sewage for irrigation.  What about fish farmers using contraceptive pills in their feed, or DDT used on vats of pickles to keep the bugs away, or opiates added in the soup to create an addiction by customers.

How relevant is the motto “buyer beware” these days!

Even health supplements are no exception.  The incidence of cross contamination leading to the collapse of the public company, Pan Pharmaceuticals, in Australia in 2003 is still fresh in our minds.

When we come to choosing products like fish oil (Omega 3) as an example, it warrants to check out what really is free of heavy metal and organic contaminants.  Most of the products on the shelves would not meet this criteria because they are only food standard GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).

The world is like a toxic cradle.  By becoming aware of the likely risks, and also staying away from these likely dangers would be the best policy.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. by the time of this writing, it has been reported that the milk powder contamination has caused at least 4 deaths and over 13,000 children being hospitalized in China.

I guess you have had your answer already.

As to the workshop I mentioned, you can imagine all sorts of answers from the floor.  2 is the standard one. Some said 4, 5, 10, or 20.  Also, a few yelled out loudly at the back, ”Infinity.”

Use your imagination, it can be any number, can be 1 or infinity, said the speaker.

Why 1?  He waved in his hands the two parts of his pen.  As he put the two together, he said, “one plus one makes …… one.”  He was not wrong.

What about infinity?  He had made a number of examples, but this one should top all of them.  He said, what happens when you have one man and one woman? 

It was a very enjoyable event.  We all had good laughs.  I am sure everyone had brought home some valuable ideas. As for me, it is the sense of freedom and space, and the certainty that there is really no limit as to what I could become.

We are what we think!

Live Life, Junius.

Thirty, forty years ago, it would hardly be the subject of conversation at all.  What makes this special today is because it is “organic” and “natural”.  It is expensive but it is “the real thing”.

More and more people look for organic or natural food these days because they taste better, and more importantly, they have better nutritional value.  Why is nutritional value so important?  Ask anyone and they would tell you that it makes our body healthier. This is absolutely correct. More precisely, the nutrients from food, consisting of vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants, are the prime ingredients to nurture our body cells. You know, each one of us is made up of over 200 types of body cells to a total of some 70 trillion to 100 trillion cells. They are just like little babies diligently doing their work non-stop 24/7 inside our body. It is a small universe there. If these babies are well fed, they will be strong, and so we are. In other words, our health depends on the healthiness of our body cells.

But, how would we know if these babies are fed enough?  This is precisely why we have to focus not just on nutrition, but also optimal nutrition – that these babies are fed with complete and balanced mix of nutrients.  World renowned nutritional specialist on sports nutrition and on aging, Dr. Michael Colgan, states that we have to ingest a precise mix of 59 nutrients to optimize our body functions.

We also understand that being “complete and balanced” is extremely important. Imagine if we make a cake, we know the recipe requires so many parts of sugar, flour, butter, and egg.  There is no way we can get that same result if we either take away one ingredient or alter the proportion of ingredients.  To the body cells, the question on “balance” is a highly critical issue.  For instance, we all know that calcium is good for the bones.  However, it can only do the job if calcium is accompanied by the right ratio of magnesium and vitamin D.  Calcium alone would likely be left in the blood streams and eventually cause stone formation in the kidneys.

As we go down this path, we come to know that safety is a big issue too.  But let’s talk about it next time.

Live Life, Junius.
Reference:

Dr. Michael Colgan (Wikipedia) Bestsellers The New Nutrition: Medicine for the Millennium

I would say that the box could be our comfort zone. The Wikipedia defines comfort zone as the environments and behaviours with which one is comfortable, without creating a sense of risk. With this definition, an analogy that vividly comes to mind is the one about the frog.  The poor thing sits comfortably inside a jar of water, not knowing that it is on a simmering fire and is gradually (unaware by itself) boiled to death. People say the biggest danger is the lack of a sense of danger. How true it is!

I would also describe the box as the box of conformity. Human civilization has gone through different eras of transformation, from the agricultural state, to industrialization, to the computer age, and now the information highway.  For most things, we know that we simply cannot apply the same principles from our ancestors and make it work at this time and age.  We need to change.

I remember some interesting questions from a brain-power workshop I attended some time ago.  For instance:

“Who would win the race, the rabbit or the tortoise?”  (Would you like to think of your answer first before reading on?)

I don’t know your answer, but almost all the people on the floor (including myself) said,” the tortoise!”

We were right if we were asked about the forever told story of the Rabbit and the Tortoise.  Why on earth would we think that the tortoise could run faster than the rabbit if not because of that story you and I have heard over a hundred times?  This is a good case of conformity, isn’t it?

Now, what about “1+1 =?”

Live Life, Junius.

I don’t know how I started it but I ended up tumbling across this piece of inspirational story earlier today.  I would like to share it with you in case you haven’t seen it.  It reads:

When the late Nadine Stair of Louisville, Kentucky, was 85 years old, she was asked what she would do if she had her life to live over again.

"I'd make more mistakes next time," she said. "I'd relax. I would limber up. I would be sillier than I have been on this trip. I would take fewer things seriously. I would take more chances. I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers. I would eat more ice cream and less beans. I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but I'd have fewer imaginary ones.

"You see, I'm one of those people who live sensibly and sanely hour after hour, day after day. Oh, I've had my moments, and if I had to do it over again, I'd have more of them. In fact, I'd try to have nothing else. Just moments, one after another, instead of living so many years ahead of each day. I've been one of those persons who never goes anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, and a raincoat. If I had to do it over again, I would travel lighter than I have.

"If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. I would go to more dances. I would ride more merry-go-rounds and I would pick more daisies."

It is such an uplifting piece. I think we need more of this more often.  Let's talk up the economy.  Let's open up, loosen up, and look up to the brighter side of life.  The world is only as beautiful as we can imagine it.

Besides, as the old saying goes: at time of adversity, there is always good opportunity.

Live Life, Junius.
p.s. the reference to Nadine Stair is found on the
Great Inspirational Quotes