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	<title>Raul Colon - Social Presence with a Human Touch - Use Media To Focus on Being Social</title>
	
	<link>http://raulcolon.net</link>
	<description>Finding Practical Solutions for Complex IT, Business, and Personal Challenges.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:07:55 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>What timezone are you in?</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/IRqKPeTEDGU/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/time-zone-converter/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:30:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Small Business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Productivity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Time zones]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5768</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[At the moment I am working with clients at CIMA and Human Business Works that all over the globe (locations with different time zones like Mexico, California, and the United Kingdom.) With all these different time zones, I can get confused when it comes to setting up a call or a virtual meeting in a different [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevgibbo/3379583614/sizes/z/in/photostream/" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5769" title="Some rights reserved by kevgibbo" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/big-ben.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="384" /></a></p>
<p>At the moment I am working with clients at <a href="http://cimapr.net">CIMA</a> and <a href="http://humanbusinessworks.com">Human Business Works</a> that all over the globe (locations with different time zones like Mexico, California, and the United Kingdom.)</p>
<p>With all these different time zones, I can get confused when it comes to setting up a call or a virtual meeting in a different time ozne. To make sure I don&#8217;t make a mistake I found the <a href="http://www.timeanddate.com/">Time and Date tool on the web</a>. It creates an event by taking your time zone and converting it over to our client&#8217;s time zone.</p>
<p>It automatically chooses a location near you in order to facilitate adding your time zone. You can find other locations via the search function (Which I recommend), Time zone (if you are familiar with them), or the dropdown option.</p>
<p><a href="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-14-at-2.15.50-PM.png" rel="lightbox[5768]" title="Puerto Rico Time Convertor"><img style="border-image: initial; border-width: 1px; border-color: black; border-style: solid;" title="Puerto Rico Time Convertor" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-14-at-2.15.50-PM.png" alt="" width="402" height="201" /></a></p>
<p>Once you have set the corresponding locations and date you can go ahead and hit convert time.</p>
<p><a href="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-14-at-2.19.46-PM.png" target="_blank" rel="lightbox[5768]" title="Time Convertor London - Puerto Rico"><img style="border-image: initial; border-width: 1px; border-color: black; border-style: solid;" title="Time Convertor London - Puerto Rico" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-14-at-2.19.46-PM-1024x525.png" alt="" width="410" height="211" /></a></p>
<p>What I like is that it will give you the times of each location and also give you a button to download the event directly into your calendar.</p>
<p>If you need to convert another time it also has the convert again function. You can either convert between other locations or make changes to the current search.</p>
<h2>A few other tools</h2>
<p>It also offers more time zone tools and conversions like:</p>
<ul>
<li>Find a suitable time to call between San Juan and London.</li>
<li>Current Time in San Juan and London</li>
<li>Corresponding Local Times around the World.</li>
</ul>
<p>I am constantly finding tools to make my life easier but most importantly that they are effective and precise.</p>
<p><strong>Any other tool you use that helps with productivity and accuracy?</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="author" href="https://profiles.google.com/106195228693285013461"><br />
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<h3 class='related_post_title'>Related Posts:</h3>
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		<title>5 Lessons From my 1st #SXSW Interactive</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/HwMm0GSZDRA/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/5-lessons-first-sxsw/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:00:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SXSWi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#SXSW]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Conferences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SXSW Plan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SXSW2012]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5784</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[1. Only Bring What is Necessary For some reason I end up bringing more stuff than what I need. Take a look at what you need to sustain you during the day. A water bottle preferably one that you can refill might be the most important thing you might want to carry. I will create a list [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_0557.jpg" rel="lightbox[5784]" title="Austin"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5790" title="Austin" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_0557-764x1024.jpg" alt="" width="319" height="427" /></a></p>
<h2>1. Only Bring What is Necessary</h2>
<p>For some reason I end up bringing more stuff than what I need. Take a look at what you need to sustain you during the day. A water bottle preferably one that you can refill might be the most important thing you might want to carry.</p>
<p>I will create a list of the critical gadgets I will be taking and carrying with me if you want to receive the next posts <a title="mailing" href="http://raulcolon.net/mailing/" target="_blank">via email feel free to subscribe</a>.</p>
<p>Keep in mind that the days are long and when you have to carry a lot it can slow you down and make you uncomfortable.</p>
<h2>2. Browse the Schedule</h2>
<p>After being in SXSW last year I realized that to much planning can actually hinder you from enjoying your time at SXSW. Pick a session or two a day which you want to go to. Meet up with someone you know online or join them to one of their sessions.</p>
<p>Like many will tell you and I have heard before, the most of the value you get out of SXSW comes out of the networking you can do in Real Life.</p>
<p>If you are not convinced feel free to read C.C. Chapman&#8217;s post &#8220;<a id="post-4401" href="http://www.cc-chapman.com/2012/yes-im-going-to-sxsw/">Yes I’m Going to SXSW, But Not to Your Party</a>.</p>
<h2>3. Which of your Contacts will be at SXSW?</h2>
<p>Last year by accident I met the founders of @lanyrd (@simonw and @natbat).  I had already mentioned their app as one to use in your planning before you arrive at the conference in my <a title="SXSW Rookie – Getting Ready for SXSWi Tips" href="http://raulcolon.net/sxsw-rookie-tips/">SXSW 1st Timer Quick Guide</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://Lanyrd.com" target="_blank">Lanyrd.com</a> will help you identify who of your contacts on twitter will be attending or speaking at SXSW (or pretty much any other conference). Make sure to open your account and update your assistance at SXSW or future events.</p>
<h2>4. Stay Informed &amp; Connected</h2>
<p>This year, I have been using Google Plus. I created a <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/106195228693285013461/posts/P42yJwbqXpi" target="_blank">SXSW Circle</a> to stay up to date on the conversations and information being shared by those who will attend. This can also help you meet people in advance before arriving at SXSW. If it is your first time this can be very helpful.</p>
<p>Last year I had the opportunity to get great tips from @cc_chapman. If you have any questions I can probably answer a few since this is the second year I will be going.</p>
<h2>5. Some Prep Before You Arrive</h2>
<p>Make sure you order your pack of <a title="@Meet_Meme Fun Business Cards and/or Personal Branding Tools" href="http://raulcolon.net/fun-business-cards-meet-mem/" target="_blank">Meet-Meme cards</a> which are a fun way to connect people from offline to online. They are also a cool and economical replacement to traditional business cards.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=359375&#038;u=476114&#038;m=37760&#038;urllink=&#038;afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/37760/300x250.jpg" alt="Meet-Meme Social Trading Cards - Make an instant personal connection" border="0"></a></p>
<p>If you want to save some money on transportation companies like <a title="freshbooks" href="http://raulcolon.net/freshbooks/" target="_blank">Freshbooks</a> (affiliate link) have a <a href="https://freshbooks.wufoo.com/forms/sxsw-customer-roster/ https://freshbooks.wufoo.com/forms/sxsw-customer-roster/ https://freshbooks.wufoo.com/forms/sxsw-customer-roster/" target="_blank">free shuttle</a> if you are arriving on the 8th to take you from the Airport to the convention center.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://freshbooks.wufoo.com/forms/sxsw-customer-roster/" target="_blank">Sign up for the free Shuttle</a></li>
</ul>
<h4>Any other suggestions or tips on getting ready for <strong>SXSW</strong>?</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="author" href="https://profiles.google.com/106195228693285013461"><br />
  <img src="http://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-32.png" width="32" height="32"><br />
</a><br />
<h3 class='related_post_title'>Related Posts:</h3>
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/awesome-time-at-issa-puerto-rico-security-conference/' title='Awesome time at ISSA Puerto Rico Security Conference'>Awesome time at ISSA Puerto Rico Security Conference</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/meeting-planned-and-unplanned-deadlines/' title='Meeting Planned and Unplanned Deadlines'>Meeting Planned and Unplanned Deadlines</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/benefits-of-going-to-conferences/' title='Benefits of Going to Conferences'>Benefits of Going to Conferences</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/vote-for-my-friend-thrivefit-panel-at-sxswi-%e2%80%9cyour-most-precious-capital-is-you%e2%80%9d/' title='Vote For my Friend @thrivefit Panel at SXSWi “Your Most Precious Capital Is You”'>Vote For my Friend @thrivefit Panel at SXSWi “Your Most Precious Capital Is You”</a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>#SXSW Google + Circle</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/tkz9pt1wtTo/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/sxsw-google-plus-circle/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SXSWi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Google Plus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Google Plus Circles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Google+]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gplus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South by Southwest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SXSW 2012]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SXSW Circle]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5796</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I created this circle with the purpose to keep track of those who will be attending SXSW like me. If you are attending SXSW and would like to be added to the circle feel free to leave me a message on the circle link. If you know of any other circles feel free to share [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://raulj.com/SXSWcircle"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5797" style="border-image: initial; border-width: 1px; border-color: black; border-style: solid;" title="SXSW Google + Circle" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-15-at-12.46.55-AM.png" alt="" width="592" height="345" /></a></p>
<p>I created this circle with the purpose to keep track of those who will be attending SXSW like me.</p>
<p>If you are attending SXSW and would like to be added to the circle feel free to leave me a message on the<a href="http://raulj.com/SXSWcircle  " target="_blank"> circle link</a>.</p>
<p><strong>If you know of any other circles feel free to share with us?</strong></p>
<h2>Other SXSW Google+ Circles</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/110483371005608992483/posts/7nSnxFn2hW8" target="_blank">HIRL</a></li>
<li><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/117596712775912423303/posts/5U196wAU1UF" target="_blank">Moritz Tolxdorff</a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>We will be sharing other posts as we get ready for SXSW feel free to suscribe to <a title="mailing" href="http://raulcolon.net/mailing/" target="_blank">get updates directly into your email.</a> </strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="author" href="https://profiles.google.com/106195228693285013461"><br />
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/training-circles-master%e2%80%99s-wheel/' title='Training Circles &amp; Master’s Wheel'>Training Circles &#038; Master’s Wheel</a></li>
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		<title>Getting into the Spirit of Running</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/LoGbM0_rqhM/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/spirit-of-running/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:21:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Random Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[right set of mind]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Running]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vegetarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5758</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Since August 2010 I stopped going to the Gym continuously and have not returned. I got so used to working out with an awesome personal trainer and my good friend Pedro, I know for a fact that I will not get the same results I get when I train with him when I train on [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/28096801@N05/3393683525/sizes/z/in/photostream/"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5761" title="Some rights reserved by DieselDemon" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/3393683525_0e9a07f6b3_z.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="368" /></a></p>
<p>Since August 2010 I stopped going to the Gym continuously and have not returned. I got so used to working out with an awesome personal trainer and my good friend Pedro, I know for a fact that I will not get the same results I get when I train with him when I train on my own. So just the fact of adding more tasks and staying updated to meet my training goals adds heavily to my already full Schedule.</p>
<p>I had stopped running even before August 2010. I had just been eating as healthy as I can (although every day I realize I can do better) but the fact that I am vegetarian does not mean I will not gain weight if I am not moving around.  Since October I have also started the transition to becoming Vegan that I will leave for a post on <a href="http://Veglatino.com" target="_blank">Veglatino.com</a>.</p>
<h2>Wake Up Call</h2>
<p>Last October while we ended up having a water outage I went to a friends house to shower and stepped on their scale. I found myself to be at 205 pounds, which at 5&#8217;8&#8243; is not healthy at all. I had also noticed in a few pictures that I had gained more pounds that I would have liked. Once I saw this on the scale I immediately started making a plan to cut down on a lot of the crap I was eating and stop drinking vegan friendly beer and liquor.</p>
<p>I quickly cut out dairy products and also decided not to have beer or good old Jack Daniels. For some reason in my life I go through long periods of not having any alcohol but on occasions I might have a bit more than I should have which translates to weight gained.</p>
<h2>Putting My Running Shoes On</h2>
<p>Once I had settled on quick changes to my diet the exercise part came into the picture. Conversations with my good friend Gabriel Pagan (@therealgabo) had also motivated me to start running again. Gabriel not only is a great business, parenting, and overall life mentor he also has a unique way of motivating people to accomplish their goals.</p>
<p>I dusted off my running shoes, which barely had a few dozen miles. I bought them a few weeks before I stopped running almost two years earlier. I started running 15 to 20 minutes but I quickly started getting pain on my knees caused by overweight, lack of exercise, and me trying to run like if I was in shape.</p>
<h2>Diet Goes With Conditioning</h2>
<p>At one point my Knees was not only sore it was hurting so I took two weeks off from running waiting for it to get better and I did research on the possibilities of why I might be hurting. I was curious to find that I had to adjust my diet to make sure I was receiving enough protein.</p>
<p>Given that I am vegetarian and now trying to Go Vegan I ended up looking for nutritious foods that will supplement my protein while keeping a plant based diet.</p>
<p>Once I had my diet in place I started listening to my body and I do stop when any discomfort starts feeling like pain. I started running 1 mile, then 2 miles and over a few months I have worked myself up towards running 6-7 miles every other day. Also the fact that I am running in Vibram 5 Finger Shoes which helps you condition your feet and make them stronger made the transition even more challenging.</p>
<h2>Celebrating the Small Goals</h2>
<p>I had not run more than 3-4 miles in about 10 years. Back then I was in the Military and I weighed around 165-170 that is 30 pounds lighter than what I am now. Reaching the milestone of 7 miles is something I have celebrated within myself. I have also lost approximately 10 pounds since I started.</p>
<h2>Future Goals</h2>
<p>Before April I Want to be able to be running 10 Miles I have taken it slower than usual since I moved over to Vibram 5 finger shoes which made me change the way I run with the benefit to make my feet stronger (which translates into more muscles work and sore feet).</p>
<p>My next post will be on the running gear I use and I will be talking about my experience with the Vibram 5 Finger Shoes in a future post.</p>
<p>I also want to lose about 5 more pounds by April. I want to make sure I keep my goals attainable since if I meet the goal previous to that date it will only motivate me more.</p>
<p>Gaining momentum into training and weight loss is critical your mind will play tricks on you and you have to find a way to motivate yourself and continue with the progress.</p>
<p>Stay tuned since I will create a post on items that make my run more pleasant and keep me focused on my running goals.</p>
<p><strong>What fitness or health goals do you have?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Is there anything holding you back from obtaining them?</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="author" href="https://profiles.google.com/106195228693285013461"><br />
  <img src="http://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-32.png" width="32" height="32"><br />
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/coldstone-bad-customer-service/' title='@Coldstonepr&#8217;s Bad Customer Service Is Helping me Go Vegan?'>@Coldstonepr&#8217;s Bad Customer Service Is Helping me Go Vegan?</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/pfchangs-san-juan/' title='Excellent Customer Service &amp; Great Food @PFChangs San Juan'>Excellent Customer Service &#038; Great Food @PFChangs San Juan</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/looking-back-when-you-are-running/' title='Looking Back when You are Running'>Looking Back when You are Running</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/vote-for-my-friend-thrivefit-panel-at-sxswi-%e2%80%9cyour-most-precious-capital-is-you%e2%80%9d/' title='Vote For my Friend @thrivefit Panel at SXSWi “Your Most Precious Capital Is You”'>Vote For my Friend @thrivefit Panel at SXSWi “Your Most Precious Capital Is You”</a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>Jimmy Kimmel Pokes Humor at Puerto Rico’s Politics</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/QuzYxHv5rys/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/jimmy-kimmel-puerto-rico-iguanas/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:40:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puerto Rico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fortuño]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Governor Fortuño]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iguana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puerto Rico Politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vegetarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5748</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Iguanas in Puerto Rico have become a serious problem since they are originally from Central America and not indigenous to the area. Given the lack of predators it has they have become a pretty serious problem on the island since there our eco-systems have no way of controlling them. It is fairly common to see [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Iguanas in Puerto Rico have become a serious problem since they are originally from Central America and not indigenous to the area.</p>
<p>Given the lack of predators it has they have become a pretty serious problem on the island since there our eco-systems have no way of controlling them. It is fairly common to see iguanas run over by cars (next to stray dogs) on the island.</p>
<p>A few weeks ago a decision was made to export Iguana meat out of Puerto Rico to combat the over population and offer an economic incentive to Puerto Rico&#8217;s <a title="Puerto Ricans Should Never Forget (Prohibido Olvidar)" href="http://raulcolon.net/puerto-rico-prohibido-olvidar/">economy</a> which we should <a title="Puerto Ricans Should Never Forget (Prohibido Olvidar)" href="http://raulcolon.net/puerto-rico-prohibido-olvidar/">not forget</a> has worsened by the poor decision making by the <a title="Puerto Ricans Should Never Forget (Prohibido Olvidar)" href="http://raulcolon.net/puerto-rico-prohibido-olvidar/">current Fortuño Administration</a>.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7S96OeobzH4" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Can&#8217;t See Video <a href="http://raulcolon.net/jimmy-kimmel-p…o-rico-iguanas">Click Here</a></strong></p>
<p>As a vegan I have mixed feelings with this approach but we do need to find a quick way to solve the iguana problem.</p>
<p>Hopefully Jimmy Kimmel&#8217;s humor can help us focus on finding other possible solutions.</p>
<p><strong>Any suggestions?</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/bullets-flying-puerto-rico-government-money-in-the-trash/' title='Bullets Flying! Puerto Rico&#8217;s Government Money in the Trash!'>Bullets Flying! Puerto Rico&#8217;s Government Money in the Trash!</a></li>
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</ul>
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		<title>Puerto Ricans Should Never Forget (Prohibido Olvidar)</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/pgn2JK_7SQw/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/puerto-rico-prohibido-olvidar/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:23:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puerto Rico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fortuño]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Governor Fortuño]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5736</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am currently building a platform to take care of Puerto Rico related subjects and have and focus this blog more on my experiences as a small business owner and a technologist.  Although on the other side a big part of who I am is connected to where I was born and have lived most [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I am currently building a platform to take care of Puerto Rico related subjects and have and focus this blog more on my experiences as a small business owner and a technologist.  Although on the other side a big part of who I am is connected to where I was born and have lived most of my life.</p>
<p>The other day I had a quick change of mind while listening to Carol Roth the author of the Entrepreneur Equation on Kitchen Table Companies show on the Pulse I agreed with her on taking a stance when it comes to politics. Similar to Carol I consider myself an independent.</p>
<h2>Independent</h2>
<p>In Puerto Rico the word independent on the surface means something completely different since it is tied to the Independence party. I personally don&#8217;t identify with any of the current political parties I would love to see many more of my fellow countrymen &amp; countrywomen look for results instead of creating tribes of blind people who are lead by those who are masters at misleading.</p>
<h3>A Good Reason Why Need to be Independent in Mind &amp; Spirit</h3>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nRcYXtx1NNo" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p>This video reached  @lucymfel via twitter and she shared it with me. I did see the value in the message created since it touched more of the human side than politics. Never Forget is a message that should be instilled in our minds as the 2012 election process comes through.</p>
<h2>Amplifying our Voices &amp; Thoughts</h2>
<p>Blogging platforms give us power as citizens to express ourselves and influence others in positive or negative ways. The video above is not about politics but how the current Fortuño Government has violated human rights time and time again (The worst part is that they have never apologized). Coming from the son of a person that in 1970&#8242;s was persecuted by Puerto Rico&#8217;s secret police just because of his political beliefs of wanting independence for the island, I see how this current administration has done a great job at almost replicating that.</p>
<h2>2012 Elections</h2>
<p>I am making a call to action we need to keep track of our politicians in check and making sure they are looking for the benefits of everyone as a collective.</p>
<p>The destruction of the Puerto Rican economy by the current government and the pending destruction of critical ecological systems worry me greatly.</p>
<p>We have to create multiple platforms where our voices can be heard and the information published and shared has the primary duty of educating all to make better decisions.</p>
<p>I want to influence those individuals who are thinking of the well being on Puerto Rico and the world as a <strong>collective</strong>.</p>
<p>How do we stop these politicians and other decision makers from only benefitting a few while the rest of the island is struggling to bring food to the table?</p>
<p>Would you be interested in bringing change by using online platforms to educate those around us?</p>
<p>What will it take what do you suggest?</p>
<p>Please if you did not do it previously take a few minutes and watch the previous video and keep your mind open that this is about our human rights not politics.</p>
<p><strong>Never Forget!</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/the-puerto-rican-elf-el-duende-boricua/' title='The Puerto Rican Elf (&#8220;El Duende Boricua&#8221;)'>The Puerto Rican Elf (&#8220;El Duende Boricua&#8221;)</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/statehood-does-not-exempt-puerto-rico-of-police-brutality-occupywallstreet/' title='Statehood Does Not Exempt Puerto Rico of Police Brutality #OccupyWallStreet'>Statehood Does Not Exempt Puerto Rico of Police Brutality #OccupyWallStreet</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/colonial-sickness-causes-delusions-on-celebrating-independence/' title='Colonial Sickness Causes Delusions on Celebrating Independence'>Colonial Sickness Causes Delusions on Celebrating Independence</a></li>
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</ul>
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		<title>Hard Working Friends</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/7cJ9XLbA7LM/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/hard-working-friends/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:00:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Professional Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Friends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hard work]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Small Business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Work Life Balance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Workaholic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Working Hard]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5723</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Previously I wrote about hard working family members and there are some good friends that live up to this motto as well. Staying close to individuals like the one I will mention keeps me focused and wanting to accomplish more. Some of them might be considered work-a-holics like me but I consider them passionate and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lkbm/18525381/sizes/z/in/photostream/"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5725" title="Some rights reserved by General Wesc" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/18525381_d2735aa472_z.jpg" alt="" width="336" height="448" /></a></p>
<p>Previously I wrote about hard working family members and there are some good friends that live up to this motto as well. Staying close to individuals like the one I will mention keeps me focused and wanting to accomplish more. Some of them might be considered work-a-holics like me but I consider them passionate and dedicated great human beings.</p>
<h2>Decorated Army Veteran</h2>
<p>My childhood friend and brother from another mother, Alex Burgos, left for the military on February 5, 2002 ten years ago. A very talented and intelligent guy, he was not being accepted into the military because of his lack of English skills.</p>
<p>He kept on taking the exam until he passed it and ten years later, I am sure his peers and the Army overall, are glad to have such a committed Iraq and Afghanistan Decorated Veteran that also holds one of the Army&#8217;s most difficult badges to acquire which is the Sapper Badge. Alex is a good example of committing to your goals even when they have said no to you many times.</p>
<h2>Proven Blogger</h2>
<p>Everyone knows <a href="http://chrisbrogan.com">Chris Brogan</a> and although I am not close to him physically he is always just an email away from supporting me in many ways. I see how much he works but I also see the great results that blossom based on his commitment.</p>
<h2>The True Educator</h2>
<p>A teacher that truly educates, my good friend Michael Castro runs the blog <a href="http://poder5.blogspot.com/">Poder 5</a>. He is involved in his community and church, but overall I would love to see Michael in action as a teacher. He juggles many roles and does a great job at it. But most importantly most of Michael’s efforts benefit those he surrounds more than it benefits him.</p>
<h2>Business Savvy Talented Artist</h2>
<p>The very talented <a href="http://ricklipsett.com">Rick Lipsett</a> holds a full time, demanding job and still has time to support our efforts at <a href="http://papaheroes.com">Papaheroes.com</a>. He also finds time to support his other blog <a href="http://undodigital.com">Undodigital.com</a> without sacrificing quality. While many sleep in, Rick is up when I am usually going to bed to get a head start at his day.</p>
<h2>Proven Project Manager &amp; IT Governance Expert</h2>
<p>I met my friend Moises on the first day at KPMG training in Montvale, NJ when we where both starting at the Information Risk Management practice in New York. Over the years I have learned a lot from him. He is very dedicated and a very knowledgeable person from many perspectives. If you are looking for a well-rounded business savvy IT security and Governance professional he is the <a href="http://governanceawareness.com">person to hire</a>.</p>
<h2>The Silicon Valley Technologist</h2>
<p><a href="http://etiquettenetworks.com">Ramon Morales</a> has many merits including having graduated from Harvard. He has built many successful businesses and is a master at creating and maintaining relationships. His good heart and the passion he has towards what he does at his business serves as an example to follow. If you are interested in seeing what Ramon does in Silicon Valley swing by <a href="http://etiquettenetworks.com">Etiquette Networks</a> and take a look.</p>
<h2>A Retail Veteran</h2>
<p>Melvin not only dominates the ins and out of retail at Macy&#8217;s, he has a clear and broad idea of business from a perspective I respect and understansharp communicator and on occasions reminds me of a drill instructor in a good way. But what I love about Melvin is the great human being he is and how he truly cares about those that surround him.</p>
<h2>A Veteran Ethical Hacker</h2>
<p>Guillermo Trillo is a master at nurturing relationships. He uses his technical knowledge in IT security to awe those who work with him. But his charm in treating others in a great way makes him standout with his customers. That also helps him build his portfolio of loyal clients at <a href="http://greenpointconsulting.net">Greenpoint Consulting</a>. I have worked with Guillermo for many years and I have to say he is one of the few talented, hard working, business owners that are always very grateful with a great heart.</p>
<p>Overall I have many friends and people around me who continuously work their butts off in search of better opportunities.</p>
<p>I am sure if you look around, you will see friends that are very committed and passionate about what they do and others that don’t have much drive. Identify those that are striving for better opportunities and stay away from those that are dragging their feet.</p>
<p><strong>Who do you need to stay clear from and whom do you need to get closer to create a successful environment for you and those around you?</strong></p>
<p><strong>What else are you missing to get to your goals? </strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
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</a><br />
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/are-your-family-values-the-same-as-your-business-values/' title='Are Your Family Values the Same as Your Business Values?'>Are Your Family Values the Same as Your Business Values?</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/are-you-investing-in-yourself/' title='Are You Investing In Yourself?'>Are You Investing In Yourself?</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/trying-vs-wanting/' title='Trying Vs. Wanting'>Trying Vs. Wanting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/too-much-fun-not-enough-work/' title='Too Much Fun Not Enough Work'>Too Much Fun Not Enough Work</a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>Is being a “Workaholic” in our DNA?</title>
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		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/is-being-a-workaholic-in-our-dna/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:46:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Professional Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Small Business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Work Life Balance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Workhaholic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Working Hard]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5715</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Sometimes I feel I am strange or different but in the process of growing thicker skin I try to analyze why I work so much. Every Sunday when I see people complaining that Monday is around the corner and how they would rather stay home than go to work it helps me realize how blessed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wheatfields/2074121298/sizes/z/in/photostream/" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5717" title=" Some rights reserved by net_efekt" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Dna-display.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="384" /></a></p>
<p>Sometimes I feel I am strange or different but in the process of <a title="It’s not about Money. Patience is your most important asset." href="http://raulcolon.net/patience-important-asset/">growing thicker skin</a> I try to analyze why I work so much. Every Sunday when I see people complaining that Monday is around the corner and how they would rather stay home than go to work it helps me realize how blessed I am.</p>
<p>For some strange reason <a title="I Fell In love with Monday! Why haven’t you?" href="http://raulcolon.net/i-fell-in-love-with-monday-why-havent-you/">I love Monday&#8217;s</a> I guess the fact of starting something new (as in a new week) is different from actually just celebrating the end of something (like the end of your weekend). I enjoy every day I wake up and take the challenges that come upon me in many ways.</p>
<h2>Am I a Workaholic?</h2>
<p>I do realize I work a lot more than the average person because people keep on reminding me (but I don&#8217;t see it that way). I have worked since I was 12 and I set up my first business when I was about 15 years old starting a Pet Grooming Business. I have changed and switched environments when it comes to the things I have done. You can see a list I created below.</p>
<h2>Is it in my Genes?</h2>
<p>As I expressed on a <a href="http://raulcolon.net/patience-important-asset/">previous post</a> when I look into my family I find many close individuals that have a similar work ethic than mine. But before I share a bit about my close family members I also want to note that I have many other distant family members who rather sit on a couch than work hard.</p>
<h2>My Brothers</h2>
<h3>Luis</h3>
<p>My oldest brother Luis never misses an opportunity to get involved in starting, continuing, or finishing a job. If you drive through Connecticut there is a good chance that you probably have seen my brother&#8217;s work and have not even realized it. I am very proud of all the obstacles my oldest brother has overcome. It brings me great happiness to see him succeed in business and how he is dedicated parent and great human.</p>
<h3>Javier</h3>
<p>My youngest brother Javier (@javierrcolon) makes me very proud. At the moment he has helped set up a few Pizza Hut franchises being a key resource for the owners. He also is focused on results and getting to where he needs to. I am sure he will be an awesome business owner one day. But in the mean time I am proud of how much drive he has to when it comes to taken care of his responsibilities on the business and personal side.</p>
<h3>Dad better Known as Don Tito</h3>
<p>My dad better known as Don Tito works 6 days a week but he is on call 24/7 given that he helps a large amount of properties where a situation can happen at any moment. He is always focused on getting his job done and will on occasion skip his vacation to make sure the business he is a part of continues to run smoothly.</p>
<h3>My Uncle Irving better known as Tio Tito</h3>
<p>My Uncle Tito is the closest I have to having another dad. He retired from working in education. During his time as an educator for Puerto Rico Education Department he held multiple other jobs working as a contractor in the Marketing and Advertising fields. His role for 30+ years was working at a tech school-teaching students the basics of business. Different to many other teachers who just spoke about theory he held parallel jobs, which kept him up to date on current business practices. At the moment when it comes to marketing and the basics of traditional business I go to him as my advisor.</p>
<h3>Uncle Rey</h3>
<p>My Uncle Rey has worked all his life in many roles and has set up multiple businesses. His drive is amazing at an age where many have retired.  He also served 30+ years in the U.S. Military for the Puerto Rico National Guard Leaving at the rank of Lt. Colonel after being the highest-ranking officer in Iraq from the PR National Guard.  My Uncle continues to create and commit himself to many projects. So if you need a day care in the San Juan area he might be the person to contact.</p>
<p>These family members keep me in check and remind me that I have to work hard but most importantly help me explain my drive towards going after things even when many others have given up.</p>
<p>I am also part of a small community of friends that motivate me and I surround myself with which I will share on my next post. Feel free to subscribe and get the next post via email.</p>
<p><strong>What things would you consider in describing a work-a-holic? </strong></p>
<h3>List of Past Jobs</h3>
<p>* Worked without Pay at Magazine Store with my dad</p>
<p>* Sold Sports Cards</p>
<p>* Worked at Grooming Shop</p>
<p>* Creating my 1st small business Grooming Dogs (RJ Pet Service)</p>
<p>* Worked Selling Art pieces at the mall</p>
<p>* Cashier at Sam&#8217;s Club</p>
<p>* Joined the U.S. Army and Army Reserves (active and reserve duty was a full 8+ years)</p>
<p>* Worked as a bartender and waiter in multiple bars and restaurants in the south part of Puerto Rico.</p>
<p>* Work Study as an assistant to the College Recruiters</p>
<p>* Worked for AOL Online Puerto Rico</p>
<p>*  Accounts Receivable clerk and other roles at Con-Agra Foods in the Accounting Department</p>
<p>* Staff Auditor and Tax Consultant at Local Puerto Rico CPA Firm</p>
<p>* Worked for KPMG Information Risk Management Practice in New York City</p>
<p>* IT Auditor at Doral Financial Corporation as an IT Auditor</p>
<p>* American Systems in Washington, DC as an Information Security Consultant</p>
<p>* Multiple Roles at CIMA IT Solutions my current company.</p>
<p>* Strategic Partner at Human Business Works with Chris Brogan.</p>
<p>* Founded a few blogs (Twitpuerto, Veglatino, and Papaheroes)</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
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<h3 class='related_post_title'>Related Posts:</h3>
<ul class='related_post'>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/hard-working-friends/' title='Hard Working Friends'>Hard Working Friends</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/are-your-family-values-the-same-as-your-business-values/' title='Are Your Family Values the Same as Your Business Values?'>Are Your Family Values the Same as Your Business Values?</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/are-you-investing-in-yourself/' title='Are You Investing In Yourself?'>Are You Investing In Yourself?</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/trying-vs-wanting/' title='Trying Vs. Wanting'>Trying Vs. Wanting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/i-love-to-gamble/' title='I love to Gamble'>I love to Gamble</a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>It’s not about Money. Patience is your most important asset.</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/10qChJcF1_4/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:46:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Professional Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Small Business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Army]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Confidence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gary Vaynerchuk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thank You Economy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Thank You economy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thick Skin]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5711</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The past few months have been very challenging since I have not brought my business where I want it to be and assuring myself that I have to trust my gut feeling can get complicated when you have a family to feed and bills to pay and the Money is just not coming in. It’s [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_2795" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 466px"><a href="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/IMG_0647.jpg" rel="lightbox[5711]" title="Gary Vaynerchuck &amp; Raúl Colón SXSWi 2011"><img class="wp-image-2795" title="Gary Vaynerchuck &amp; Raúl Colón SXSWi 2011" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/IMG_0647-1024x764.jpg" alt="" width="456" height="340" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Gary Vaynerchuck &amp; Me SXSWi 2011</p></div>
<p>The past few months have been very challenging since I have not brought my business where I want it to be and assuring myself that I have to trust my gut feeling can get complicated when you have a family to feed and bills to pay and the Money is just not coming in.</p>
<p><strong>It’s not about Money; Patience is your most important asset.</strong></p>
<p>On the other side it is easy to give up when you are not seeing results quickly but over time and after running my own business over the past 3-½ years I have learned that Patience is an asset that can be lost easily. Patience most be nurtured every day. I have been working on it seems I like to react when my intuition tells me something is wrong. I also like to make on spot corrections where I see a fault but this can drain you of energy especially when you are around people that don’t truly want to better themselves or the environment around them.</p>
<p>I had the opportunity the previous march to meet Gary Vaynerchuk at SXSWi and talk with him for a few minutes at the Samsung Bloggers Lounge. I also got a signed copy of his <a title="Book Review- @garyvee’s “Thank You Economy”" href="http://raulcolon.net/book-review-thank-you-economy/">book Thank You Economy </a>and out of the many interesting successful people I have met I have to say he is one the few, that just like my good friend <a href="http://chrisbrogan.com">Chris Brogan</a>, you can feel he cares about others.</p>
<p>Last night looking at my Google Plus I found this video Gary shared where I agree on many of this thoughts when it comes to being in entrepreneurial mindset.</p>
<p><object width="500" height="369" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xDgLEio-YL0?version=3&amp;hl=en_US" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed width="500" height="369" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xDgLEio-YL0?version=3&amp;hl=en_US" allowFullScreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" /></object></p>
<p>Can&#8217;t See Video <a href="http://raulcolon.net/patience-important-asset/" target="_blank">Click Here</a></p>
<p>The past week has been evidence of what I really believe in and Gary is speaking about very clearly in the previous video. I find it curious how Gary created this video based on all the emails he received of questions entrepreneurs ask him so they can move on and be successful. If you watch the video I interpreted how Gary breaks down his advice in a very practical way.</p>
<h2>Confidence</h2>
<p>You need to be confident of what you are doing and go with your gut feeling. Like Gary said there is no Lost in Going for it.</p>
<p>Many years ago when I was in the Army Reserve Drill Sergeant school during the second phase I had one of my instructors who clearly called me out and her words pretty much changed how I approached life from that moment off.</p>
<p>Drill Sgt. Instructor Deb Hancock congratulated me on doing an awesome job at the task at hand but seconds later told me that I needed to adjust the way I reacted because I was so confident in everything I did that other people where perceiving it as if I was cocky.</p>
<p>Reality was that everything I do I give it my best and at that moment although I had lost my interest in being in the Military I was still giving it my best when others where just dragging their feet and calling me out because I was celebrating my wins. I thank Deb Hancock for giving me such great advice which I have applied since and almost 8 years later I keep it in the back of my head to control how I show my passion (I am still working on it) towards everything I get involved in.</p>
<h2>Thick Skin</h2>
<p>At that time remember I was 23 and a lot younger than most of the folks training with me. For some reason that made me celebrate what I had accomplished in a wrong way. Like Gary states in the video we evolve and get better, when I was 23 and younger I was clearly concerned on what others would think of me. Over the years I have gotten better on staying focused on the tasks at hand. I also have situations where I might lose track and I have Lucy (@lucymfel) and friends that remind me that I need to keep working on my goals.</p>
<h2>Working Your ASS Off</h2>
<p>I work ridiculous hours and many people might think I am crazy. Some might even go to the extreme of telling me I am not enjoying my life. In that case I don&#8217;t care because it is in my genetics.  Two of my brothers (Luis and Javier -@javierrcolon), My dad (Don Tito), my Uncle&#8217;s (Tito and Rey), my best childhood friend Alex, and other good friends like Moises and <a href="http://ricklipsett.com" target="_blank">Rick</a> also work very long hours.  I never see them complaining about missing out on a party, working on a Friday night, or missing out on a holiday. I usually see the opposite in them talking about the next thing they will be working on.</p>
<p>I surround myself around people that are constantly creating and working towards their goals. In my case my normal weeks involve at least working 70 hours when many think they did a full week with 40 hours. Yes I would love to work only 40 hours but when I am not getting the results I want I have to work at lot harder at it.</p>
<p>So if you think that working hard for 70 hours a week is not living life take a look at the people around you that work fewer hours and are always complaining on how crappy their job and life is.</p>
<h2>Sticking To It</h2>
<p>I have had a tough 2011 and the past few months have been harder.  My hardest job is keeping myself focused even when I am not able to see results.  It takes lots of patience and discipline to keep on going when things in the surface don’t look right. A few months ago I was invited by Joe Sorge (@joesorge), someone I consider to be very successful business owner, to the Kitchen Table Talks show. He wanted me to talk about how I Stick with Things and don&#8217;t give up. People like Joe and my other good friend and business partner Rob Hatch @robhatch remind me that sticking with will pay off in the long run.</p>
<h2>Celebrating and Sharing Results</h2>
<p>This past week I have seen results on many aspects. I was able to land a sponsorship (I will be mentioning the sponsor soon) to go to SXSWi in helping me cover the cost of the Badge, Airfare, and a few other expenses. I still have a few more sponsor packages if anyone is interested in supporting my trip <a href="http://raulcolon.net/contact">feel free to reach out.</a></p>
<p>My team and business partners at <a href="http://humanbusinessworks.com">Human Business Works</a> are in the process of closing and winning a project in Europe helping some folks with Social and Online presence. I have also gotten many replies from a few leads that seem to want my help on a few other projects.</p>
<p>As I am finally seeing the results of the many weeks of hard work, I take the opportunity to thank each and everyone of you that has kept my spirits up by supporting me in many ways (saying hi, sharing a post, commenting on a post, or just sending us good vibes).</p>
<p><strong>What things are going well on your side make sure you celebrate each and every win (no matter how small it is)?</strong></p>
<p><strong>How can you lose the fear in loosing and come out swinging in spirits to hit a home run?</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="author" href="https://profiles.google.com/106195228693285013461"><br />
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<h3 class='related_post_title'>Related Posts:</h3>
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<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/looking-back-when-you-are-running/' title='Looking Back when You are Running'>Looking Back when You are Running</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/trying-vs-wanting/' title='Trying Vs. Wanting'>Trying Vs. Wanting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/dealing-with-people-that-disagree-with-me/' title='Dealing with People that Disagree with Me '>Dealing with People that Disagree with Me </a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/a-few-steps-that-make-your-life-easier/' title='A few steps that make your life easier!'>A few steps that make your life easier!</a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>GroundHog Day! What Shadow will you Cast?</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RaulColon/~3/qPeyoI0kFIU/</link>
		<comments>http://raulcolon.net/groundhog-day-what-shadow-will-you-cast/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:22:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Raul Colon</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Professional Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Berni Xiong]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Groundhog Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[One Less One More]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vorhaus]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raulcolon.net/?p=5704</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[After watching the movie GroundHog Day with Bill Murray where every day  for Bill&#8217;s character was the same . It gave him the opportunity to improve it a bit more and correct anything he wanted to correct. A Day to Reflect I take this day to reflect on my accomplishments and compare to how I [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/myklroventine/3247388159/sizes/z/in/photostream/"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-5705" title="Some rights reserved by Mykl Roventine" src="http://raulcolon.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/3247388159_d503cdd487_z.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="453" /></a></p>
<p>After watching the movie <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107048/" target="_blank">GroundHog Day with Bill Murray </a>where every day  for Bill&#8217;s character was the same . It gave him the opportunity to improve it a bit more and correct anything he wanted to correct.</p>
<h2>A Day to Reflect</h2>
<p>I take this day to reflect on my accomplishments and compare to how I have spent many other GroundHog Days in the past.</p>
<p>I clearly remember how I started doing this exercise when in February 2, 2006 I woke up at a crappy hotel room in Blossburg, PA very close to Punxsutawney, PA where the famous groundhog named Phil is monitored to cast his shadow. I ended up realizing I wanted to change a few things and that I was truly not completely happy with the life I was currently living. Working out of New York and living out of luggage from hotel room to hotel room is not the lifestyle anyone wishes . I worked towards changing this and I think I have done a great job at changing my lifestyle to have more control of where I want to be at.</p>
<h2>Things have Changed and Improved</h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">At the moment although I find myself re-inventing my business I find myself as a Small Business Owner, a dad with a Beautiful Daughter , an awesome business and life partner (<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">@lucymfel</span>), a small group of awesome friends (I would like to list them all), living in the tropics not having to worry about cold winters, and most importantly finding myself in great health.</div>
<p>Overall instead of looking for the Shadow I am making sure that where I cast my shadow in the future brings myself and those around me lots of progress.</p>
<p>I am grateful for all the blessings I have at the moment and for all of you who supper me continuously.</p>
<p>My cousin <a href="http://www.bernixiong.com/" target="_blank">Berni Xiong </a> would say that we learn from our mistakes and my other good friend <a href="http://vourhaus.com" target="_blank">Robbie Vorhaus</a> would say to focus on One Less thing we want to remove from our lives and One More thing we want to add into our lives (at least that is my interpretation.</p>
<p><strong>What Shadow have you Casted?</strong></p>
<p><strong>What things can you fix so in the future where you cast your shadow it brings lots of benefits and blessings? </strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://cimapr.net" title="CIMA IT Solutions" target="_new"><img src="http://cimapr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/468x60-CIMA-IT.png" alt="CIMA IT Solutions" title="CIMA IT Solutions" style="border:none;" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="author" href="https://profiles.google.com/106195228693285013461"><br />
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</a><br />
<h3 class='related_post_title'>Related Posts:</h3>
<ul class='related_post'>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/patience-important-asset/' title='It’s not about Money. Patience is your most important asset.'>It’s not about Money. Patience is your most important asset.</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/5-simple-steps-goals/' title='5 Simple Steps to Reach Long Term Goals'>5 Simple Steps to Reach Long Term Goals</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/5-things-i-wants-lots-of-during-2012-again/' title='5 Things I wants lots of during 2012! '>5 Things I wants lots of during 2012! </a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/looking-back-when-you-are-running/' title='Looking Back when You are Running'>Looking Back when You are Running</a></li>
<li><a href='http://raulcolon.net/trying-vs-wanting/' title='Trying Vs. Wanting'>Trying Vs. Wanting</a></li>
</ul>
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