I am sure many of you knows who is Steve Jobs. He started his billion dollar business in garage during his early twenties. Before he passed on, he is already the leader of 3 separate industries: Music - Ipod, Movies - Pixar, Computing - Mac)
What really gets my respects about him is his Philosophy. Jobs always ask himself this question everytime he is faced with a big choice. "What would I do if this was the last day of my life.?" And there, he met his wife.
He was giving a university address while she was sitting among the audience. He fell for her and approached her for her number. She agreed. He wanted to take her out for dinner that night but had a business meeting. So, he ask himself this magical questions. The next moment, he found himself running back to the auditorium and took her out for dinner instead. They have been together ever since.
Try it for yourself, and maybe you will realise how this questions can change your life. Remember, connecting to the end can keep you focused on what is most important to you before it's too late.
Showing posts with label Lessons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lessons. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Have You Start Reading Obituaries?
I have start to become more philosophical these days, as I realised time is ticking by so fast...I am less willing to waste my time, less willing to listen to negative people. I am even less willing to miss an opportunity to be loving, champion another human being, get closer to my dreams, or have some genuine fun. And...I started reading obituaries too.
When I read of the lives others have lived , I am offered clues on whats most important in life. I realised that obituaries of lives well lived often share certain consistent pattern.
- Family
- Friendship
- Contribution to community
- Taking calculated risk
- Kindness through small, simple acts
- Love
The greatest of all i read speaks of being close to loved ones and of the impact the deceased had on the world around them.
Leading a beautiful life, I always ask the kinds of questions that will provoke me to think deeply ad connect with what matters most. One of the dominant traits of so many of the extraordinary people I know is the discipline of bring more reflective than most of us. So ask profound questions. Good questions lead to excellent answers and greater clarity. And greater clarity is the DNA of authentic success and personal greatness.
There are 5 questions that I hope will cause you to go deep and become more philosophical about what truly counts in your life. Most people don't discover how to love until it's time to die. By then it's too late...Start writing your answers down in journal, ask yourself on a daily basis and get yourself align!
- Did I Dream Big Enough?
- Did I Live Fully to the Extend of What I am Capable of?
- Did I Learn to Let Go of Those Thinking that Does not Support Me?
- Did I Love Well?
- Did I Leave the Earth a Better Place?
I hope the answers you arrive at will help you live with more passion and joy. Clarity does precede success. You can't hit a target you can't even see. And we are really not here that long, if you think about it. We'll all be dust before you know it! So live and maximise your potential now!
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Saturday, November 09, 2013
True Innovator.
True Innovator has a mantra they belief in...The enemy of best is good. They are constantly getting to make things better. What others call impossible they see as probable. They live out of their imaginations. They live to challenge the commonly accepted. They assume nothing. They see no limits. To them, everything is possible.
If you want to be a leader, I have a simple suggestion: Just keep innovating. Innovate at work. Innovate at home. Innovate in your relationships. Innovate in the way you see your life and innovate the way you see the world. To become stagnant is the beginning of death. Growth, Evolution and Reinvention sustain life. Sure it can be scary. But wouldn't you rather feel your fear than play small in life?
Of course, while you innovate and refuse to be bound by the chains of complacency, there will have chances that we will still fail. Not every risk we take and not everything will work out as planned. I mean that's just life. Failure is the essential to success and the more we stretch, the further we will growth. Failure is a gift. It has been so helpful to me. It took me closer to my dreams, equipped me with more knowledge and toughened me so much that i will be prepared. Success and Failure go hand in hand, like a business partner.
Companies that don't innovate wont survive, so the key is driving this innovation. The lesson is especially important when things are going well. Though it doesn't make sense but successfully company needs to me twice as innovative as their competitors to ensure they stays at the top. Leaders that don't innovate are displaced by those willing to take risks.
So go to work each day and refuse to do the same thing you did yesterday. Keep challenging yourself to think better, do better and be better. Shake things up a bit and confront your limitations. Refuse to in mediocre, stand up for whats best and commit to being great in all you do. And then you will realise how great you have become!
If you want to be a leader, I have a simple suggestion: Just keep innovating. Innovate at work. Innovate at home. Innovate in your relationships. Innovate in the way you see your life and innovate the way you see the world. To become stagnant is the beginning of death. Growth, Evolution and Reinvention sustain life. Sure it can be scary. But wouldn't you rather feel your fear than play small in life?
Of course, while you innovate and refuse to be bound by the chains of complacency, there will have chances that we will still fail. Not every risk we take and not everything will work out as planned. I mean that's just life. Failure is the essential to success and the more we stretch, the further we will growth. Failure is a gift. It has been so helpful to me. It took me closer to my dreams, equipped me with more knowledge and toughened me so much that i will be prepared. Success and Failure go hand in hand, like a business partner.
Companies that don't innovate wont survive, so the key is driving this innovation. The lesson is especially important when things are going well. Though it doesn't make sense but successfully company needs to me twice as innovative as their competitors to ensure they stays at the top. Leaders that don't innovate are displaced by those willing to take risks.
So go to work each day and refuse to do the same thing you did yesterday. Keep challenging yourself to think better, do better and be better. Shake things up a bit and confront your limitations. Refuse to in mediocre, stand up for whats best and commit to being great in all you do. And then you will realise how great you have become!
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Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Stay Productive. Are you?
The New York Times recently ran an article about how email can make people less productive.
However, misuse of email is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Here are 10
actions that you can take today that can make you at least twice as productive
as your colleagues.
Meetings can only be productive if people know why they're meeting in the first place. An agenda provides focus and purpose. The lack of an agenda guarantees meandering conversations that dive into rat holes. They're a waste of your (and everyone else's) time.
2. Never pick up on an unknown caller.
Unless you're working in telesales or product support, there's no reason why you should ever take a call from somebody you don't know. After all, when was the last time you took an unexpected call that was truly important? Days? Weeks? Months?
3. Permanently turn off your voice mail.
A voice-mail message consumes minutes of your time (more if you have to replay) to communicate information you could absorb from an email in seconds. Explain in your outgoing message that you don't use voice mail, and instead provide your email address.
4. Hone your email program's sorting rules.
It takes time and energy to change gear to sort through (and respond to) a long list of disconnected messages. Most email programs allow you to route different types of messages into folders, where you can review and respond en masse rather than piecemeal.
5. Periodically disable email and texting.
When you must do creative work or absorb complex information, the last thing you need is your computer and phone chirping and beeping for your attention. Whatever it is, it can wait until you've finished the task at hand. Trust me.
6. Give social butterflies short shrift.
For some people, a day at work means an endless coffee klatch. They wander the halls searching for somebody, ostensibly to discuss business but really just to chat. Don't let these time leeches hobble your success. Just say no. If necessary, get rude.
7. Reward your body with high-quality fuel.
What you eat determines your energy level, and your energy level determines how much you can get accomplished. Sugary treats provide a quick energy boost but then create an even deeper dip. Heavy foods take energy to digest, leaving you with less to use.
8. Take a five-minute walking break every hour.
The human body is not designed to sit for hours at a stretch. Attempting to do so inevitably creates aches and pains that leech your energy as your body tries to compensate and heal them. So get up and move! Use a timer if you have to.
9. Make your decisions more quickly.
Most people waste an extraordinary amount of time obsessing about (and second-guessing) their decision making. However, you're always better off making a good-enough decision quickly than waiting for an imaginary best decision.
10. Completely disconnect for 12 hours every day.
If you stop pretending to be productive when you're eating and sleeping, you'll be far more productive when you're actually working. Being always available is an unfailing recipe for stress, illness, and bad decision making. Give it rest.
1. Avoid meetings that lack an agenda.
Meetings can only be productive if people know why they're meeting in the first place. An agenda provides focus and purpose. The lack of an agenda guarantees meandering conversations that dive into rat holes. They're a waste of your (and everyone else's) time.
2. Never pick up on an unknown caller.
Unless you're working in telesales or product support, there's no reason why you should ever take a call from somebody you don't know. After all, when was the last time you took an unexpected call that was truly important? Days? Weeks? Months?
3. Permanently turn off your voice mail.
A voice-mail message consumes minutes of your time (more if you have to replay) to communicate information you could absorb from an email in seconds. Explain in your outgoing message that you don't use voice mail, and instead provide your email address.
4. Hone your email program's sorting rules.
It takes time and energy to change gear to sort through (and respond to) a long list of disconnected messages. Most email programs allow you to route different types of messages into folders, where you can review and respond en masse rather than piecemeal.
5. Periodically disable email and texting.
When you must do creative work or absorb complex information, the last thing you need is your computer and phone chirping and beeping for your attention. Whatever it is, it can wait until you've finished the task at hand. Trust me.
6. Give social butterflies short shrift.
For some people, a day at work means an endless coffee klatch. They wander the halls searching for somebody, ostensibly to discuss business but really just to chat. Don't let these time leeches hobble your success. Just say no. If necessary, get rude.
7. Reward your body with high-quality fuel.
What you eat determines your energy level, and your energy level determines how much you can get accomplished. Sugary treats provide a quick energy boost but then create an even deeper dip. Heavy foods take energy to digest, leaving you with less to use.
8. Take a five-minute walking break every hour.
The human body is not designed to sit for hours at a stretch. Attempting to do so inevitably creates aches and pains that leech your energy as your body tries to compensate and heal them. So get up and move! Use a timer if you have to.
9. Make your decisions more quickly.
Most people waste an extraordinary amount of time obsessing about (and second-guessing) their decision making. However, you're always better off making a good-enough decision quickly than waiting for an imaginary best decision.
10. Completely disconnect for 12 hours every day.
If you stop pretending to be productive when you're eating and sleeping, you'll be far more productive when you're actually working. Being always available is an unfailing recipe for stress, illness, and bad decision making. Give it rest.
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Monday, January 07, 2013
A Brand New Year for You?
This is a brand new year, and with a brand new year, many would have new hopes, new resolution and new expectation for the year. I always like this period of the time because its the time where all the hopes are flying around, people gets positive and upbeat. They are optimistic maybe because of the holiday season they get relax.
I got this article from www.inc.com. you will find it suitable to have them during this period of the year while you are making a new resolution and entering greater heights. It is about habits! Habits are those that will make or break you. Since this is the case, why not create those habits that will make you happier for a better life?
Happiness is the only true measure of personal success. Making other people happy is the highest expression of success, but it's almost impossible to make others happy if you're not happy yourself.
With that in mind, here are nine small changes that you can make to your daily routine that, if you're like most people, will immediately increase the amount of happiness in your life:
I am sure you enjoyed this article as much as I do. Would this be a brand new year for you or just something like the same old year? Its your choice. Fo me, I will choose to make my year an awesome one by practicing the habits that make me more happy, satisfied and enjoyable! How about you?
I got this article from www.inc.com. you will find it suitable to have them during this period of the year while you are making a new resolution and entering greater heights. It is about habits! Habits are those that will make or break you. Since this is the case, why not create those habits that will make you happier for a better life?
~9 Daily Habits that will make you Happier!~
Happiness is the only true measure of personal success. Making other people happy is the highest expression of success, but it's almost impossible to make others happy if you're not happy yourself.
With that in mind, here are nine small changes that you can make to your daily routine that, if you're like most people, will immediately increase the amount of happiness in your life:
1. Start each day with expectation.
If there's any big truth about life, it's that it usually lives up to (or down to) your expectations. Therefore, when you rise from bed, make your first thought: "something wonderful is going to happen today." Guess what? You're probably right.2. Take time to plan and prioritize.
The most common source of stress is the perception that you've got too much work to do. Rather than obsess about it, pick one thing that, if you get it done today, will move you closer to your highest goal and purpose in life. Then do that first.3. Give a gift to everyone you meet.
I'm not talking about a formal, wrapped-up present. Your gift can be your smile, a word of thanks or encouragement, a gesture of politeness, even a friendly nod. And never pass beggars without leaving them something. Peace of mind is worth the spare change.4. Deflect partisan conversations.
Arguments about politics and religion never have a "right" answer but they definitely get people all riled up over things they can't control. When such topics surface, bow out by saying something like: "Thinking about that stuff makes my head hurt."5. Assume people have good intentions.
Since you can't read minds, you don't really know the "why" behind the "what" that people do. Imputing evil motives to other people's weird behaviors adds extra misery to life, while assuming good intentions leaves you open to reconciliation.6. Eat high quality food slowly.
Sometimes we can't avoid scarfing something quick to keep us up and running. Even so, at least once a day try to eat something really delicious, like a small chunk of fine cheese or an imported chocolate. Focus on it; taste it; savor it.7. Let go of your results.
The big enemy of happiness is worry, which comes from focusing on events that are outside your control. Once you've taken action, there's usually nothing more you can do. Focus on the job at hand rather than some weird fantasy of what might happen.8. Turn off "background" TV.
Many households leave their TVs on as "background noise" while they're doing other things. The entire point of broadcast TV is to make you dissatisfied with your life so that you'll buy more stuff. Why subliminally program yourself to be a mindless consumer?9. End each day with gratitude.
Just before you go to bed, write down at least one wonderful thing that happened. It might be something as small as a making a child laugh or something as huge as a million dollar deal. Whatever it is, be grateful for that day because it will never come again.I am sure you enjoyed this article as much as I do. Would this be a brand new year for you or just something like the same old year? Its your choice. Fo me, I will choose to make my year an awesome one by practicing the habits that make me more happy, satisfied and enjoyable! How about you?
Thursday, December 27, 2012
I Want The Best, How About You?
One of the habits I consistently observed within those star performers and extraordinary leaders are their commitment to world class. They drive the highest quality class, live in the best house and wear the finest clothes. Their philosophy generally seems to be " I stand for being the best so it only make sense that I should invest in the best." And they held the belief even before they are successful.
Greatness is a state of mind. You need to believe in your potential and power before you can bring them to life. You need to feel like you are extraordinary before you can become extraordinary. I call this "emotional blueprinting" To see spectacular results in your external life, you have to emotionally create a blueprint of your vision within your inner life.
One of the best way I have discovered to achieve this feeling is to ensure that you surround yourself with the highest level. I remember reading a book years ago, written by Al Koran, called Bring out the magic in your mind. One of the ideas that stayed with me is : In order to be successful, it's important to go where the successful people are. Even if you have on $10, go have a coffee at the best restaurant in your city. His point? Your surrounding shape the way you feel. And the way you feel drives what you do. Feel world class and you behave world class.
Invest in the best. Buy the highest quality goods you can possibly afford. Better to buy one superb pair of shoe than three cheap ones. "Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten." When I just started out, I took part of my first pay check and invest in a great watch. It wasn't a rolex or cartier but it was a good one. My thinking was that it would last for years, make me feel successful while I wore it and actually end up saving me money because it would rarely need repairs. One of my friends who always looked for the cheapest deal laughed at me. But I turned out to be right. He changed 6 watches along the way, and mine is still working great!
I am in no way encouraging a senseless addiction to material things. All I am saying is that if you are serious about standing for the best. Rewarding yourself with the good things sends a message to the deepest and highest part of you. One that say I am worth it and I deserve it. It will inspire you to reach even higher, work even harder and be even better. To anyone who says that our self worth should be so strong that high quality goods won't affect how we feel, I respectfully suggest that such a statement misses the reality of human nature. Every one of us like nice things, they appeal to our senses just like a beautiful sunset, magnificent mountain.
The best investment we can have is to be the best. You might not agree but I owe you the truth. My tastes are simple, I just want the best, how about you?
Greatness is a state of mind. You need to believe in your potential and power before you can bring them to life. You need to feel like you are extraordinary before you can become extraordinary. I call this "emotional blueprinting" To see spectacular results in your external life, you have to emotionally create a blueprint of your vision within your inner life.
One of the best way I have discovered to achieve this feeling is to ensure that you surround yourself with the highest level. I remember reading a book years ago, written by Al Koran, called Bring out the magic in your mind. One of the ideas that stayed with me is : In order to be successful, it's important to go where the successful people are. Even if you have on $10, go have a coffee at the best restaurant in your city. His point? Your surrounding shape the way you feel. And the way you feel drives what you do. Feel world class and you behave world class.
Invest in the best. Buy the highest quality goods you can possibly afford. Better to buy one superb pair of shoe than three cheap ones. "Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten." When I just started out, I took part of my first pay check and invest in a great watch. It wasn't a rolex or cartier but it was a good one. My thinking was that it would last for years, make me feel successful while I wore it and actually end up saving me money because it would rarely need repairs. One of my friends who always looked for the cheapest deal laughed at me. But I turned out to be right. He changed 6 watches along the way, and mine is still working great!
I am in no way encouraging a senseless addiction to material things. All I am saying is that if you are serious about standing for the best. Rewarding yourself with the good things sends a message to the deepest and highest part of you. One that say I am worth it and I deserve it. It will inspire you to reach even higher, work even harder and be even better. To anyone who says that our self worth should be so strong that high quality goods won't affect how we feel, I respectfully suggest that such a statement misses the reality of human nature. Every one of us like nice things, they appeal to our senses just like a beautiful sunset, magnificent mountain.
The best investment we can have is to be the best. You might not agree but I owe you the truth. My tastes are simple, I just want the best, how about you?
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas everyone!
It has been a very eventful year and that's what makes life more exciting isn't it? During this time of the year, many will start doing their end of the year reflection. I believe everyone need to be accountable in one way or another and reflection is the best way of accountability.
The year started tough and solid. Its like an uphill straight in my face even before it start. Looking back on the last few years, I felt those are just training for days like this. I take a turn in perspective and choose to feel blessed instead. It is only in those times, when I become more vigilant and focus. It is like a mental workout and yes I am right!
The beginning of the year, my team mates ain't around, some were on leave. Those who was supposed to be around tender their resignation and were gone while the other gotten into MC. Just when I thought everything was against me it was actually a blessing in disguise. My fellow colleagues literally treat me like 'King'. They make sure I never go hungry and those unimportant things they will settled themselves so I can focus on running my core work and get the events delivered.
I finally did it! I went to Macchu Picchu, the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the world! It was a last minute decision as Tibet was suddenly closed off from foreigners, hence the switch. The best part, I am able to pull off the change one week before flying off! Talking about lucky!
I always wanted to learn speed reading. Even though I know the technique, but I couldnt understand how to digest the information by reading so fast? Is it lasting? The opportunity comes when Nicole arranged a photo reading session the coaches. The best take away from this course ~ What is the objective you want from reading this book? This is the first thing the instructor taught us. Always know why you want to read this book. I realise, this is so important in every aspect of our life! What we expect is what we get!
Next year is going to be so different! So much blessing, so much abundance and the wonderful things will start blooming. This time of the week, is usually where I start penning down my goals for the next year! Share with me your goals for next year and in the meantime, Merry Christmas to you and your family!
It has been a very eventful year and that's what makes life more exciting isn't it? During this time of the year, many will start doing their end of the year reflection. I believe everyone need to be accountable in one way or another and reflection is the best way of accountability.
The year started tough and solid. Its like an uphill straight in my face even before it start. Looking back on the last few years, I felt those are just training for days like this. I take a turn in perspective and choose to feel blessed instead. It is only in those times, when I become more vigilant and focus. It is like a mental workout and yes I am right!
The beginning of the year, my team mates ain't around, some were on leave. Those who was supposed to be around tender their resignation and were gone while the other gotten into MC. Just when I thought everything was against me it was actually a blessing in disguise. My fellow colleagues literally treat me like 'King'. They make sure I never go hungry and those unimportant things they will settled themselves so I can focus on running my core work and get the events delivered.
I finally did it! I went to Macchu Picchu, the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the world! It was a last minute decision as Tibet was suddenly closed off from foreigners, hence the switch. The best part, I am able to pull off the change one week before flying off! Talking about lucky!
I always wanted to learn speed reading. Even though I know the technique, but I couldnt understand how to digest the information by reading so fast? Is it lasting? The opportunity comes when Nicole arranged a photo reading session the coaches. The best take away from this course ~ What is the objective you want from reading this book? This is the first thing the instructor taught us. Always know why you want to read this book. I realise, this is so important in every aspect of our life! What we expect is what we get!
Next year is going to be so different! So much blessing, so much abundance and the wonderful things will start blooming. This time of the week, is usually where I start penning down my goals for the next year! Share with me your goals for next year and in the meantime, Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Faith and Beliefs
Faith and Beliefs move mountains. I always emphasis, all you have to do is to Believe. If you don't believe that an idea will work, then there is no chance you will act on it. And if you don't act on it, you won't see any results. Thought is the mother of action and your beliefs really do become your self fulfilling prophecies.
I hang around with people making changes for others. But first of all the others must be willing for the changes to begin with. Some ask, I want to change but I don't see it. Or there are some who wants to do it but have no idea how to get started. Let's use the metaphor on mountain climbing to help illustrate how to get started with change.
Define what the mountain top looks like. I suggest you articulate, in writing, what success looks like to you. Note what needs to make adjustment in your life for you to feel spectacularly successful and what will happen if you don't. Record your goals for all key areas of your life. Write out what you want your reality to appear as five years from now. List the values you want to stand for. Clarity precedes success and awareness precedes transformation.
Start Climbing. There's great power in starting. A single act done now sets forces into play. It generates momentum. And with the action you begin to experience results. That begins a feedback loop - more action, more results. And in turn promotes confidence.
Take small steps. You can't get to the top of Everest by jumping up the mountain. You get to the mountaintop by taking incremental steps. Step by step you get to the goal. Every step gets you closer to the dream. Life's like that too. Small steps each day get you to greatness over time. Days become weeks and weeks become months and months become years. You will get to the end of life anyway, so why not reach it as an extraordinary place.
I hang around with people making changes for others. But first of all the others must be willing for the changes to begin with. Some ask, I want to change but I don't see it. Or there are some who wants to do it but have no idea how to get started. Let's use the metaphor on mountain climbing to help illustrate how to get started with change.
Define what the mountain top looks like. I suggest you articulate, in writing, what success looks like to you. Note what needs to make adjustment in your life for you to feel spectacularly successful and what will happen if you don't. Record your goals for all key areas of your life. Write out what you want your reality to appear as five years from now. List the values you want to stand for. Clarity precedes success and awareness precedes transformation.
Start Climbing. There's great power in starting. A single act done now sets forces into play. It generates momentum. And with the action you begin to experience results. That begins a feedback loop - more action, more results. And in turn promotes confidence.
Take small steps. You can't get to the top of Everest by jumping up the mountain. You get to the mountaintop by taking incremental steps. Step by step you get to the goal. Every step gets you closer to the dream. Life's like that too. Small steps each day get you to greatness over time. Days become weeks and weeks become months and months become years. You will get to the end of life anyway, so why not reach it as an extraordinary place.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Sponge Bob Square Pants
Sponge Bob Square Pants is an amazing character. The kids were enjoying the cartoon when this little boy brought up the subject on this little cartoon character. "Is Sponge Bob a real person?" This made me laugh. Then it made me think. If Sponge Bob were a human being, this world
would be a better place. Seriously, There are four lessons I gather out from him.
The Eternal Optimist. This guy always see the best in any situation. Your thinking really does shape your reality. And because Sponge Bob looks for the best, he finds it.
Value People. Sponge Bob knows what friendships means. He loves his pal. Sponge Bob knows about respect and putting people first are two of the most important element for strong relationships.
Being Original. Sponge Bob is one of a kind. Too many among us are afraid to be ourselves. So we give up our dreams to follow the crowd. This is tragic. "to thine own self be true," say Shakespeare. Have the courage to be your true and greatest you.
Have Fun. There is no point in being successful but sad. Makes no sense. Yes, reach for the mountain top. But enjoy the climb as well. Life wasn't meant to be an ordeal. It was meant to be a celebration. So have big time fun as you chase and catch your most cherished dreams
would be a better place. Seriously, There are four lessons I gather out from him.
The Eternal Optimist. This guy always see the best in any situation. Your thinking really does shape your reality. And because Sponge Bob looks for the best, he finds it.
Value People. Sponge Bob knows what friendships means. He loves his pal. Sponge Bob knows about respect and putting people first are two of the most important element for strong relationships.
Being Original. Sponge Bob is one of a kind. Too many among us are afraid to be ourselves. So we give up our dreams to follow the crowd. This is tragic. "to thine own self be true," say Shakespeare. Have the courage to be your true and greatest you.
Have Fun. There is no point in being successful but sad. Makes no sense. Yes, reach for the mountain top. But enjoy the climb as well. Life wasn't meant to be an ordeal. It was meant to be a celebration. So have big time fun as you chase and catch your most cherished dreams
Wednesday, September 05, 2012
Get in World Class Condition
You know, I am with the idea of being fit if you want to be at your best. Getting into world class physical condition is one of the smartest moves you can ever made. Exercising will make you look better, feel stronger and fill you with boundless energy. Staying fit will make you even happier.
The past week has been a time of change for me. I am coaching my team so that they know the new standards and goals. I am pushing myself harder to get more done and generate better results. And I am lifting the bar on the size of my dreams. I need to make a difference. I passionately feel that. As I go through all this, one of the practices that is serving me so well is my exercising routine.
I remember a a friend sharing "Exercise is an insurance policy I have taken out on my health. And each day that I go to gym, I am paying a premium." Another friend quoting " Good health is a crown on the head of a well person that only sick person can see. Great friends. Smart point.
No matter how busy I get or how much pressure is on my shoulders, a good workout makes me feel at ease. I come off the thread feeling relaxed, full of joy and with a sense of perspective over the issues on my plate. I get so many big ideas while I am running and such clarity while I am exercising. The best part ~ staying fit keeps me happy and positive. I know i can never be Mr universe but my life will be a lot better, more productive and longer than if I didn't. And that's good enough for me.
The past week has been a time of change for me. I am coaching my team so that they know the new standards and goals. I am pushing myself harder to get more done and generate better results. And I am lifting the bar on the size of my dreams. I need to make a difference. I passionately feel that. As I go through all this, one of the practices that is serving me so well is my exercising routine.
I remember a a friend sharing "Exercise is an insurance policy I have taken out on my health. And each day that I go to gym, I am paying a premium." Another friend quoting " Good health is a crown on the head of a well person that only sick person can see. Great friends. Smart point.
No matter how busy I get or how much pressure is on my shoulders, a good workout makes me feel at ease. I come off the thread feeling relaxed, full of joy and with a sense of perspective over the issues on my plate. I get so many big ideas while I am running and such clarity while I am exercising. The best part ~ staying fit keeps me happy and positive. I know i can never be Mr universe but my life will be a lot better, more productive and longer than if I didn't. And that's good enough for me.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Genius
Genius is not the sole domain of a rare breed of person. Both you and I are entitled to that label and to play in that space. Here's the BIG idea: Focus on any area or skill with a relentless devotion to daily improvement and a passion for excellence and within 3 to 5 years, you will be operating at a level of competence such that people call you genius.
Focus + Daily Improvement + Time = Genius.
Michael Jordan was a basket ball genius. Was his spectacular success on court purely the result of natural gifts? Absolutely not! He took what nature gave him and ran the formula. He was branded as one of the worst player while in school! This didn't stop him. He didn't scatter his focus. He just got devoted to being brilliant at basketball.
Thomas Edison registered a stunning 1093 patents over his lifetime and invented the light bulb as well as phonograph. He was labeled as a slow learner in school. He continued working on his passion and focused on his inventions. He improved daily. And he let time work its magic. Genius came knocking.
Know what you can excel at. Discover your talents and then work like crazy to polish them. One of the most important of all personal leadership skills is self awareness. Know what you are great at. Reflect on those abilities that others admire in you. Think of those capabilities that just come easily to you and that flow effortlessly from you. This could be a fantastic communicator or have a way with people. You might possess an extraordinary ability to execute and get things done. Perhaps your special talent lies in innovation and creativity and seeing what everyone else sees but thinking a different thought.
Find your genius point and then develop them. Put the formula in. Start today and in 3 to 5 years time people will be writing about you. Calling you a genius. Celebrating your magnificence. And I would be one of them.
Focus + Daily Improvement + Time = Genius.
Michael Jordan was a basket ball genius. Was his spectacular success on court purely the result of natural gifts? Absolutely not! He took what nature gave him and ran the formula. He was branded as one of the worst player while in school! This didn't stop him. He didn't scatter his focus. He just got devoted to being brilliant at basketball.
Thomas Edison registered a stunning 1093 patents over his lifetime and invented the light bulb as well as phonograph. He was labeled as a slow learner in school. He continued working on his passion and focused on his inventions. He improved daily. And he let time work its magic. Genius came knocking.
Know what you can excel at. Discover your talents and then work like crazy to polish them. One of the most important of all personal leadership skills is self awareness. Know what you are great at. Reflect on those abilities that others admire in you. Think of those capabilities that just come easily to you and that flow effortlessly from you. This could be a fantastic communicator or have a way with people. You might possess an extraordinary ability to execute and get things done. Perhaps your special talent lies in innovation and creativity and seeing what everyone else sees but thinking a different thought.
Find your genius point and then develop them. Put the formula in. Start today and in 3 to 5 years time people will be writing about you. Calling you a genius. Celebrating your magnificence. And I would be one of them.
Thursday, August 09, 2012
The Bucket List
The Bucket List is a powerful concept. I got this inspiration from the movie - The Bucket List. This story is about 2 men. 1 guy has all the money in the world and the other one leads a normal life. They got to know each other in a hospital which was about to die.
They both decided they will not leave life with regrets, and their journey begins. They travel to different part of the world, experience things they never done before...This show touched me so deep that I immediately start thinking about my bucket list after it ends. Since then, I know life is never about just living and leaving. Its an opportunity to experience it to the fullest; doing things we never done, facing fear and doing what we subscribe to!
It never ceases to amaze me how powerful this concept is. Just ask anyone who reviews it on a consistent basis. Some of the people I know, whose list included everything from starting a family to owning a professional sports franchise, has accomplished 2/3 of the objectives they wrote down. Clarity clearly does precede success. And with heightened awareness of what's most important comes wiser choices.
As for me, I am still in hot pursuit of my dreams. But so many of my goals on my list have been achieved. But I am just getting started enjoying my bucket list. How about you?
They both decided they will not leave life with regrets, and their journey begins. They travel to different part of the world, experience things they never done before...This show touched me so deep that I immediately start thinking about my bucket list after it ends. Since then, I know life is never about just living and leaving. Its an opportunity to experience it to the fullest; doing things we never done, facing fear and doing what we subscribe to!
It never ceases to amaze me how powerful this concept is. Just ask anyone who reviews it on a consistent basis. Some of the people I know, whose list included everything from starting a family to owning a professional sports franchise, has accomplished 2/3 of the objectives they wrote down. Clarity clearly does precede success. And with heightened awareness of what's most important comes wiser choices.
As for me, I am still in hot pursuit of my dreams. But so many of my goals on my list have been achieved. But I am just getting started enjoying my bucket list. How about you?
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Let's start failing!
I failed like most people. I fail all the time. I have failures in relationships. I have failures in life. I used to wonder why this happened. I used to play poor me and suffer from the dreaded disease of victim.
Now I get it! I have been stumbling towards my best life. Failure is the price of greatness. Failure is an essential ingredient for a high achievement. As innovation guru David Kelley wrote "Fail faster. Succeed sooner"
We can't win without leaving our safety zone and taking some calculated risks. No risk, no reward. And more risks we take in the pursuit of our dreams, the more we are going to fail. Thats for sure.
Too many among us live in what I call the safe harbour of the known. Same breakfast for 20 years. Same drive to work for 20 years. Same conversation for 20 years. Same thinking for 20 years. I have no judgement on that kind of life. If it makes you happy, that's great. But I don't know of anyone who is happy living that.
If you keep doing what you have been doing, you will keep getting what you have been getting. Einstein defined insanity as doing the same things over and again but expecting different results. Yet, most people rule their lives that way. True joy comes when you put some skin in the game and take some chances. Yes, you will start to experience more failure. but guess what? Success also starts to pay more visit.
Failure is just part of the process of getting to world class. "Screw-ups are the mark of excellence" said management consultant Tom Peters. The best companies on the planet have failed more than the average ones.
The most successful people on the planet have failed more than the ordinary ones. To me, the only failure is the failure to try and dream and dare. The real risk lies in riskless living. Mark Twain made the point perfectly when he observed " Twenty years from now on you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did."
So go ahead, stretch today. Ask for the best table in your favourite resturant. Ask for an upgrade to first class on your next flight. Ask your teammate at work for more understanding. Ask you sweetheart at home for more love. Do it. I dare you. And remember, you can't win a game that you don't even play!
Now I get it! I have been stumbling towards my best life. Failure is the price of greatness. Failure is an essential ingredient for a high achievement. As innovation guru David Kelley wrote "Fail faster. Succeed sooner"
We can't win without leaving our safety zone and taking some calculated risks. No risk, no reward. And more risks we take in the pursuit of our dreams, the more we are going to fail. Thats for sure.
Too many among us live in what I call the safe harbour of the known. Same breakfast for 20 years. Same drive to work for 20 years. Same conversation for 20 years. Same thinking for 20 years. I have no judgement on that kind of life. If it makes you happy, that's great. But I don't know of anyone who is happy living that.
If you keep doing what you have been doing, you will keep getting what you have been getting. Einstein defined insanity as doing the same things over and again but expecting different results. Yet, most people rule their lives that way. True joy comes when you put some skin in the game and take some chances. Yes, you will start to experience more failure. but guess what? Success also starts to pay more visit.
Failure is just part of the process of getting to world class. "Screw-ups are the mark of excellence" said management consultant Tom Peters. The best companies on the planet have failed more than the average ones.
The most successful people on the planet have failed more than the ordinary ones. To me, the only failure is the failure to try and dream and dare. The real risk lies in riskless living. Mark Twain made the point perfectly when he observed " Twenty years from now on you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did."
So go ahead, stretch today. Ask for the best table in your favourite resturant. Ask for an upgrade to first class on your next flight. Ask your teammate at work for more understanding. Ask you sweetheart at home for more love. Do it. I dare you. And remember, you can't win a game that you don't even play!
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
Principles @ Work
A man visiting a temple under construction saw a sculptor making an idol of God. Realising there was a similar idol lying nearby, he asked “Do you need two statues of the same idol?” “No,” replied the sculptor without even looking up,“We need only one, but the first one got damaged at the last stage”
The Gentleman examined the idol for a while and found no apparent damage.“Where is the damage?” he asked. “There is a scratch on the nose of the idol.” said the sculptor, busy with his work. “Where are you going to install the idol?”, he asked the sculptor.
The sculptor replied that it would be installed on a pillar twenty feet high. “If the Idol is that far, who is going to know that there is a scratch on the nose?” the Gentleman asked. The sculptor stopped his work, looked up at the gentleman, smiled and said, “I will.”
The Gentleman examined the idol for a while and found no apparent damage.“Where is the damage?” he asked. “There is a scratch on the nose of the idol.” said the sculptor, busy with his work. “Where are you going to install the idol?”, he asked the sculptor.
The sculptor replied that it would be installed on a pillar twenty feet high. “If the Idol is that far, who is going to know that there is a scratch on the nose?” the Gentleman asked. The sculptor stopped his work, looked up at the gentleman, smiled and said, “I will.”
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
The Seven Forms of Wealth
Wealth is not about having all the money in the world nor the top money generating machine. This are the core areas in our life when achieved makes us the richest person on earth. There are seven elements that we want to raise them to world class levels before we call ourself rich!
Inner Wealth
This means a positive mindset, high self respect, internal peace and a strong spiritual connection.
Physical Wealth
Health is Wealth! Whats the point of getting to a great place in your career if you get sick doing it? Why be the best businessperson in the hospital ward? Why be the richest person in the graveyard?
Family and Social Wealth
when your family life is happy, you will perform better at work. No one gets to the end of their life and regrets making their family their first priority. Related to this is the imperative of forging deep connections with friends and members of your personal community (including mentors, role models and trusted advisors)
Career Wealth
Actualising your highest potential by reaching for your best in your career is incredibly important. Getting to greatness in your profession brings a feeling of satisfaction on a job well done. It helps you make your mark. Being world class in your work is so good for your self-respect.
Economic Wealth
Yes, Money is important. Not the most important thing in life but very important. It absolutely makes life easier and better. Money allows you to live in a nice home, take beautiful vacations and provide well for those you love.
Adventure Wealth
To be fulfilled, each of us needs mystery in our lives. Challenge is necessary for happiness. The human brain craves novelt. And we are creative beings so we need to be creative constantly if we hope to feel joy. Lots of adventure is an essential element of authentic wealth.
Impact Wealth
Perhaps the deepest longing of the human heart is to live for something greater than itself. Each of us craves to be significant. To make a difference. To know that the world has somehow been better because we have walked the planet.
I invite you to focus on each element if you want to experience true wealth. Money alone does not define being wealthy. There are many rich people who are unhappy and unsuccessfuly as human beings. By focusing on elevating all seven of these areas to world class levels, you will not only shine ever so brightly for all those around you but also contentment that lasts.
Inner Wealth
This means a positive mindset, high self respect, internal peace and a strong spiritual connection.
Physical Wealth
Health is Wealth! Whats the point of getting to a great place in your career if you get sick doing it? Why be the best businessperson in the hospital ward? Why be the richest person in the graveyard?
Family and Social Wealth
when your family life is happy, you will perform better at work. No one gets to the end of their life and regrets making their family their first priority. Related to this is the imperative of forging deep connections with friends and members of your personal community (including mentors, role models and trusted advisors)
Career Wealth
Actualising your highest potential by reaching for your best in your career is incredibly important. Getting to greatness in your profession brings a feeling of satisfaction on a job well done. It helps you make your mark. Being world class in your work is so good for your self-respect.
Economic Wealth
Yes, Money is important. Not the most important thing in life but very important. It absolutely makes life easier and better. Money allows you to live in a nice home, take beautiful vacations and provide well for those you love.
Adventure Wealth
To be fulfilled, each of us needs mystery in our lives. Challenge is necessary for happiness. The human brain craves novelt. And we are creative beings so we need to be creative constantly if we hope to feel joy. Lots of adventure is an essential element of authentic wealth.
Impact Wealth
Perhaps the deepest longing of the human heart is to live for something greater than itself. Each of us craves to be significant. To make a difference. To know that the world has somehow been better because we have walked the planet.
I invite you to focus on each element if you want to experience true wealth. Money alone does not define being wealthy. There are many rich people who are unhappy and unsuccessfuly as human beings. By focusing on elevating all seven of these areas to world class levels, you will not only shine ever so brightly for all those around you but also contentment that lasts.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Always be Better and Doing Better!
I always have a keen interest in business; business that is accomplished and successfully run. For all the business, they seems to have a common secret. I mean, they must all be doing the same things, that why they can be so successful.
I was seating in a coffeeshop having my prawn noodle one day. Seating with me was a coffeeshop uncle enjoying his Kopi - O. For those who don't know what is Kopi - O, its Black coffee. No sugar nor Creamer.
Back to the topic, he looked at me and say "Son, you know why wealth can never last 3 generations?" Confused by his sudden question, I replied, No. Why? He say "Because the second and third generation can never go through what the first generation does. This motivation, determination, courage and all the trial and testing to ensure that this business system will work.
I nod with agreement, he continued " I always believe in getting better and doing better. I will never accept myself to settle in mediocrity."
Ok, I replied giving him the blurred look wondering why is he telling me all these and thinking who is he. Some big boss in some company or what?
He carried on, " There is 4 principles I always held true to me. They served me well my whole life. I learned it from my mother, she was the most amazing people i ever known. And I miss her a lot!"
"Sorry to hear about it, drink some coffee, you feel better" feeling lost now. "it's ok. I need to go back office soon. But before i do, I would like to share with you my 4 principles."
Improve - Always be getting and doing better. Never Settle for mediocrity.
Observe - Talk to the people you work with. Really listen to them. And keep your eyes on the business. Because you can expect only that which you inspect.
Connect - Be really good to people. Treat your customers with respect. Give them good value. Be caring and deal with any complaints fast.
Adapt - Conditions change. Competition grows. Uncertainty is the new normal. Stay fast. stay flexible. Stay Nimble.
Like a student listening attentively to the master,
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Learn More and Earn More!
A Simple Idea to move to your next level : To earn more you must learn more. The compensation you receive from your employer will be determined by the value you add. The more you know, the more valuable you become. To earn more, learn more. Out read your competition. Out study them. Out-improve them. Out suceed them.
"Become Indispensable!"
Awareness precedes choice which precedes results. As you learn what the best do, you will develop new awareness. With better awareness, you will make better choices. And with better choices, you are certain to see better results. Investing in learning and getting your skills to world class is the smartest investment you'll ever make. Master your craft and you'll get to greatness.
Some of the busiest people I know read or listen to CDs or do online training for at least an hour a day. A lot of people are too busy being busy. Shift from being busy to getting results.
Take the first step today. Rather than watching TV tonight, make the time to read. Learn what the superstars in your profession do to stay on top. Learn how to create greater wellness in your life. Learn how to master your time. Learn how to live your highest life!
"Become Indispensable!"
Awareness precedes choice which precedes results. As you learn what the best do, you will develop new awareness. With better awareness, you will make better choices. And with better choices, you are certain to see better results. Investing in learning and getting your skills to world class is the smartest investment you'll ever make. Master your craft and you'll get to greatness.
Some of the busiest people I know read or listen to CDs or do online training for at least an hour a day. A lot of people are too busy being busy. Shift from being busy to getting results.
Take the first step today. Rather than watching TV tonight, make the time to read. Learn what the superstars in your profession do to stay on top. Learn how to create greater wellness in your life. Learn how to master your time. Learn how to live your highest life!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Success - Up or Down?
Richard Carrion, the CEO of Puerto Rico's top bank once shared "Nothing fails like success."
Powerful thought. You, as well as your organisation are most vulnerable when you are most successful. Success actually breeds complacency, inefficicency and worst of all - arrogance.
When people and businesses get really successful, they often fall in love with themselves. They stop innovating, working hard, taking risks and begin to rest on their laurels. They go on defensive, spending their energy protecting their success rather than spending time focusing on the things that got them to the top.
The most successful you and your organisation become, the more humble and devoted to your customers you need to be. The more committed to efficiency and relentless improvement you need to be. The faster you need to play. The more value you need to add!
The moment you stop doing those, things that got you to the top is also the very moment you begin to slide down to the valley.
Powerful thought. You, as well as your organisation are most vulnerable when you are most successful. Success actually breeds complacency, inefficicency and worst of all - arrogance.
When people and businesses get really successful, they often fall in love with themselves. They stop innovating, working hard, taking risks and begin to rest on their laurels. They go on defensive, spending their energy protecting their success rather than spending time focusing on the things that got them to the top.
The most successful you and your organisation become, the more humble and devoted to your customers you need to be. The more committed to efficiency and relentless improvement you need to be. The faster you need to play. The more value you need to add!
The moment you stop doing those, things that got you to the top is also the very moment you begin to slide down to the valley.
Labels:
Change,
Innovation,
Lessons,
Organisation,
Truth,
wisdom
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
Instructions on Life
Sometimes we wish there is a instruction for us when we come to this world. Things would be so much easier and smoother.
In fact, there is and given to all of us, without our realisation. I found this somewhere on the internet. Have fun and read with care!
Instructions Given To Each Of Us At Birth
1. You will receive a body. You may like it or hate it, but it
will be yours for the entire period this time around.
2. You will learn lessons. You are enrolled in a full-time,
informal school called life. Each day in this school, you will
have the opportunity to learn lessons. You may like the
lessons or think them irrelevant and stupid.
3. There are no mistakes, only lessons. Growth is a process
of trial and error, experimentation. The "failed" experiments
are as much a part of the process as the experiment that ultimately "works."
4. A lesson is repeated until it is learned. A lesson will be
presented to you in various forms until you have learned it.
Then you can go on to the next lesson.
5. Learning lessons does not end. There is no part of life that
does not contain lessons. If you are alive, there are lessons to
be learned.
6. "There" is no better than "here." When your "there" has
become a "here," you will simply obtain another "there" that
again, looks better than "here."
7. Others are merely mirrors of you. You cannot love or hate
something about another person unless it reflects to you
something you love or hate about yourself.
8. What you make of your life is up to you. You have all the
tools and resources you need; what you do with them is up to
you. The choice is yours.
9. The answers lie inside you. The answers to life's questions
lie inside you. All you need to do is look, listen, and trust.
10. You will forget all of this.
In fact, there is and given to all of us, without our realisation. I found this somewhere on the internet. Have fun and read with care!
Instructions Given To Each Of Us At Birth
1. You will receive a body. You may like it or hate it, but it
will be yours for the entire period this time around.
2. You will learn lessons. You are enrolled in a full-time,
informal school called life. Each day in this school, you will
have the opportunity to learn lessons. You may like the
lessons or think them irrelevant and stupid.
3. There are no mistakes, only lessons. Growth is a process
of trial and error, experimentation. The "failed" experiments
are as much a part of the process as the experiment that ultimately "works."
4. A lesson is repeated until it is learned. A lesson will be
presented to you in various forms until you have learned it.
Then you can go on to the next lesson.
5. Learning lessons does not end. There is no part of life that
does not contain lessons. If you are alive, there are lessons to
be learned.
6. "There" is no better than "here." When your "there" has
become a "here," you will simply obtain another "there" that
again, looks better than "here."
7. Others are merely mirrors of you. You cannot love or hate
something about another person unless it reflects to you
something you love or hate about yourself.
8. What you make of your life is up to you. You have all the
tools and resources you need; what you do with them is up to
you. The choice is yours.
9. The answers lie inside you. The answers to life's questions
lie inside you. All you need to do is look, listen, and trust.
10. You will forget all of this.
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