Sunday, April 25, 2010

Reframe your view!!!

. . .

The definition of Reframe is:

1. To support something/someone in a new or different frame.

2. To change the plans or basic details of (a policy, idea, etc.) reframe policy issues and problems.

3. To look at, present, or think of (beliefs, ideas, relationships, etc.) in a new or different way.

4. To change the focus or perspective of (a view) through a lens.

5. To say (something) in a different way reframe the question.

Source: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Reframing



I was reminded this past week how important it is to reframe things in our life, from time to time.


As many of you know, I am an active and passionate member of Toastmasters. Last week, my friend and fellow Toastmaster, Wang Yip conducted a speech that focused on "Reframing".   Wang is a brilliant speaker, and the message he delivered truly grabbed my attention. Life can be amazing if we can reframe how we see, perceive, or view things that we encounter. Ironically, it was the second time in the same week that this topic of discussion was put in front of me. A business associate of mine, (Terry R.) offered a perspective on this topic one day before I heard Wang's speech............In effect, Terry offered a similar point of view, stating that when bad stuff happens, be thankful for the opportunity to learn and grow. When adversity hits you in the forehead, see it as a true developmental opportunity in your life.

I must admit, when I reflect on my life, it was because of the times when I was challenged the most that I grew the most. Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges, as it allowed to me to be bigger, stronger, and wiser.

When life is too "cushy" we become like a couch potato and don't feel like getting up, because there is no reason to do so. When life throws you a "curve ball" and it smacks you square in the eye, you get up and learn from this painful experience. In most cases, it better prepares us for the next curve ball. It is called "wisdom"

A book for your review and reference:
http://www.personalbestseminars.com/reframeyourblame/about-book.php


I hope we can all reframe our week ahead!!


"Helping you to the next level"


Sunday, April 18, 2010

HAVE FUN!!!

. . .

It is time to be reminded to have fun at work, rest and play!

A very special friend of mine always reminds me to "Have Fun." I smile when she says this, because many times, the task at hand is not always so pleasant, but if I decide to have fun, I get to see the task in a whole new light.

By definition, fun is:   activities that are enjoyable or amusing.

Life.... for most of us, can be very hectic, but if we take some time to have fun along the way, it can make the day, week, or year go by just a little easier.

Fun takes on many forms. For some, it is to simply chill on the couch and watch the Stanley Cup Playoffs. How about raking leaves, while sipping a cool margarita, or two?  I have to admit I did this and had a lot of fun.  (It can even prevent you from waking up with a sore back...LOL)
For my friend Harvey, he may have fun performing as a Stand-Up Comedian; for my buddy Al, it may involve a great round of golf on his favourite course in Victoria. (Hopefully with me!!); my sister Sharon has fun with her beautiful Grandchildren; and my friend Eden takes his Harley for a cruise.

 
Having fun does not need to be planned. Just do it. (Yes, I know I used this a few weeks ago, but it is still applicable)

Fun is a state of mind. If you enjoy life, you will never miss out on fun. The key to a good life is to have fun.

For the week ahead, may I suggest that you plan to HAVE FUN. Perhaps, dust off the BBQ or get the bike out for a cruise.

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

Click here for reminder!

I would welcome your comments below.

Have a FUN week!!




"Helping you to the next"

Saturday, April 10, 2010

PLAY NICE!!!

...


When we were kids, our parents taught us to always play nice and be polite to adults. (Especially for those of us who were raised in Saskatchewan. LOL!!)      I realize today, what valuable lessons they instilled in me.


I have been fortunate to meet many people in my life on a personal and professional basis. The large majority of these people are really NICE!


It is such a simple thing to do in life, yet so many people have challenges making this the constant norm.


When I think about individuals in my circle of influence, I automatically gravitate to the people that are NICE on a consistent basis. I realize to some, this may sound lame, but it is so true!! When you are NICE, you are attracting others to be NICE too. This simple rule is a base criterion for people that I chill with and do business with. In fact, when I refer business to someone, this is a must!


So, what does being NICE, really mean? As I see it, people support and listen to you, offer input without an agenda or wanting anything in return. They make you a better person!


Over the years, I have been referred to as a “Nice Guy” and while I am grateful for the comment, I do not see it as a significant feat, or accomplishment. Being nice is easy and ironically; you are not required to be highly successful, wealthy, good looking, or meet any particular benchmark in society. So many people that I associate with are naturally nice, in fact, over time, they actually influence me, and others. Think about the nicest person you know. It is tough to not be nice when you are in their company.


To those of you that are “playing nice”, please continue......We Thank you!!


For the rest of you, perhaps you wake-up tomorrow with a different perspective to give this “Nice” thing a try. You may be amazed at the results.


Have a nice week!


(I dedicate this week’s Blog to my late Mother, “Helen”, who taught me to be Nice)

I welcome your comments on my Blog in the comments section below...Thank you!





“Helping you to the next level.”

Saturday, April 3, 2010

JUST DO IT.................

. . .


“Just do it.” Three simple, yet very powerful words!!!

Nike made this phrase famous, but it’s more than just a marketing line. All you need is to “Just do it” and you will reach a BIG tipping point in which you will go from saying and planning; to doing and proving.

“Just doing it” shouldn’t be exact, and it should come to you out of the blue. You don`t need to plan when.

Here's a quick, yet inspiring story!

My good friend and mentor, Harvey Emas, is 87 years old. When Harvey was 65 and thinking about retiring, (Ya right Harvey!!) he told his dear wife Minnie that he was thinking of taking up Acting as his new career. Of course Minnie responded as any supportive spouse would do. "Are you crazy?"  LOL.
Well......Harvey was not crazy, but determined indeed. Harvey decided to "Just do it".

Would you have the courage and determination to "Just do it" at age 65?

He took Acting lessons and auditioned for many parts and landed several roles, including serving as Host for a TV Talk Show on a local cable network, a few commercials, along with photography modeling and fashion modeling.  Over the years, Harvey evolved to become a Stand-up comedian and is very funny, with laser quick timing on his punch lines. What is even better, is that Harvey truly loves being a Stand-up Comedian.

A few weeks ago Harvey took me for lunch and we enjoyed some great dialogue, as we always do.
Harvey told me something really profound, yet awesome. He said, “you know Mike, I have enjoyed a great life and have no regrets, because I was able to do all the things that I wanted to do.” Wow, was that a message from a wise, yet very funny Stand-up Comedian!!

I not only really like Harvey, but this man inspires me, each and every day.

When you are not certain about your next step and hesitate what to do, just think of Harvey`s advice. He would tell you to “Just do it.”

Thanks for the inspiration and friendship Harvey!!

CLICK HERE for Harvey`s LinkedIn profile

He is open to booking at least two Stand-up Comedy gigs per month.....! 
Harvey's waiting for your call...



I welcome your comments on my Blog in the comments section below...Thanks!!


 “Helping you to the next level”