African Americans: Decide Your Destiny Master Your Mind Pa

No one can make you feel inferior without your own consent.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Prayer and forgiveness

Prayer and forgiveness are very spiritual by their nature. Prayer represents our communication with God and forgiveness is a godly act even us mortals are empowered to perform.

Prayer - Studies have demonstrated that sick people recover faster when people pray for them then when no one is praying for them. This holds true even when neither group knows if people are praying for them or not leading some to conclude that the power of prayer is an independent power.

Some people and even a few preachers demean the 'act' of prayer by repeating clichs like 'God helps those who help themselves' or that we need to get off our knees and take action versus taking time out to pray. I say that prayer is action. Prayer puts you in touch with the Creator of the universe.

If you have any self limiting beliefs that you can't overcome using the above strategies then using this one can trump all obstacles and this is it - If God be with you, who can be against you. If you believe that is true with all your heart, nothing can get in your way for very long. Prayer can enlighten, calm, clear the mind and help you find strength and wisdom when you need it. As African Americans, we have a strong spiritual heritage of Christian faith. I strongly urge you to use the gift of prayer to seek wisdom and understanding from the Source above.

Forgiveness - This is an extremely difficult and supremely divine act that we are empowered to perform. As much of the legacy of slavery, lynchings, discrimination, segregation, poverty, brutality and injustice plague our communities today, each one of us must muster the strength to forgive even those that don't ask for it. This will help us to reduce the power of these emotional anchors to the nuisance level as Publisher and CEO Earl Graves calls it.

Christ died on the cross long ago so that I could find my own redemption from the sins I committed almost 2000 years later. Put your forgiveness on the table today as Jesus did. Not everyone will accept it but that is fine. When you forgive in your heart, you rid yourself of excuses for not putting out your best efforts everyday.

Forgiveness is a very potent and mighty power. And it is a power that you don't have to be cautious about how you use it. It will change your life and possibly the life of others around you because forgiveness changes everyone affected by it.

I remember when Reginald Denny forgave the boys that attacked him during the riot that occurred in L.A. after the Rodney King verdict that acquitted the officers that brutally beat him. I saw the parents of those boys crying and giving the biggest and warmest hugs to Mr. Denny. It was heart warming to see and unbelievable under the circumstances but forgiveness seems to have that effect on people. That moment began the healing of a deeply divided and desperate city.

Like so many of the skills and strategies I mentioned previously, the power to forgive and the willingness to exercise that power gives you control. The power is in your hands, which is right were you want it.

I understand that these are apparently very spiritual principles and they may seem odd to those that don't hold any deeply rooted spiritual beliefs. There are therapeutic benefits to prayer and forgiveness that go beyond their obvious spiritual benefits. They can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, restore relationships and maybe even lead one to a higher level of inner peace. In fact, there are 1,200 published studies in 2004 alone on the benefits of forgiveness.

The foundation, A Campaign for Forgiveness Research, states that there are at least two benefits of forgiveness. One, forgiveness reduces the stress associated with the state of unforgiveness. Bitterness, anger, hostility, hatred, resentment and the fear of being humiliated again all have negative health consequences. They even can cause hormonal changes that can lead to immune suppression, heart disease and memory problems. Secondly, research shows that people with strong social networks of friends and family tend to be healthier then loners. In a sense, forgiveness means setting yourself free of your own suffering.

For those who do have deep religious beliefs, you already understand the power here. Either way, I highly recommend you get as much practice at this as you can. The more of these strategies that you put to work for you, the more easily you will find yourself able to get into highly resourceful states. These are just a few of the most effective ways to gain maximum leverage over your mental and emotional states.

Your mastery over yourself is the foundation upon which the rest of the skills for the 21st Century are built. Lottery winners are examples of people that acquire wealth but have not achieved personal mastery. The odds are that they will lose everything they won and end in bankruptcy just a few short years after hitting the jackpot. They had the wealth but lacked the mental discipline and preparation needed to keep it.

This mastery is especially crucial when it comes to developing the next skill required to succeed in this new economy. All seven skills and dozens of strategies can be found in the downloadable ebook, The 7 Simple Secrets to Wealth Building: An African American's Guide to Wealth Building in the 21st Century and Beyond available at www.blackwealthnow.com.

About The Author

This article is an excerpt from the downloadable ebook by Bret Searles titled The 7 Simple Secrets to Wealth Building: An African American's Guide to Wealth Building in the 21st Century and Beyond available at www.blackwealthnow.com

bret@blackwealthnow.com

Bariatric Surgery Costs

The cost of Bariatric surgery can be quite high. The typical price of an operation can be $25,000 or more. Medical insurance coverage varies by state and insurance provider, and although some states have legislation in place that requires insurers to offer weight loss surgery for patients, providing it meets health criteria laid down by the National Institutes of Health, other states do not. This means that patients who would benefit from bariatric surgery often have to contend with providers that have not yet accepted that this kind of weight loss surgery can deliver powerful medical benefits that will save them money in the long run. A patient encountering this problem may have to work with his or her surgeon to prove to the health insurance provider that the proposed surgery is not a cosmetic procedure, but a potentially life-saving operation that will minimize future health problems.



Individuals who are interested in bariatric surgery and are on Medicare will be glad to know that it covers weight loss surgery for morbidly obese patients with an obesity-related or condition. Morbid obesity is defined as 100 or more pounds overweight or a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more.



Of course, the costs do not end once a patient successfully undergoes bariatric surgery. Because weight loss can be significant, many individuals are left with loose, sagging skin that no longer has the elasticity to fit the new, slimmer shape. Since neither exercise nor diet will help tighten loose skin, many bariatric patients choose plastic surgery as a remedy. The cost of bariatric-related plastic surgery operations can vary significantly, depending on the patient's condition, complications, the type of anesthesia, and other factors.



Some of the more popular post-bariatric surgery procedures include: abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), body lift (circumferential panniculectomy), brachioplasty (arm lift), breast lift, augmentation, or reduction, face and/or neck lift, and thigh lift.
Bariatric Surgery Info provides detailed information on bariatric surgery, including cost, patients, centers, diet, financing, and complications, as well as specific procedures like laparoscopic and bypass surgery. Bariatric Surgery Info is the sister site of Gastric Bypass Surgery Web.

Attack of the Cancer Fighting Tomatoes

Attack of the Cancer Fighting Tomatoes
By Michael Brooks

That's right, the colorful little fruit (yes, it's a fruit) has been shown to pack a powerful punch against several forms of cancer. A variety of studies indicate that a diet rich in tomato based products (tomato paste, sauce, juice, soup and ketchup) can significantly reduce the risk of prostate, lung and colon cancer. Not bad for a fruit that was considered by many to be poisonous and inedible until the 19th century.

What is the Active Ingredient?

The active ingredient that makes tomatoes such a formidable opponent against cancer cells is the carotenoid called Lycopene. Lycopene is the natural red pigment found in tomatoes and tomato based products. The redder the tomato, the more lycopene is present.

How does Lycopene Fight Cancer?

In the body, lycopene is deposited in the liver, lungs, prostate gland, colon and skin. Its concentration in body tissues tends to be higher than all other carotenoids. Some organs, such as the testes and adrenal glands, store higher levels of lycopene than do other organs or tissues. Lycopene acts as a super antioxidant by picking up free radicals in the body. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms with an odd number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Once formed these highly reactive radicals can start a chain reaction. Their primary danger comes from the damage they can do when they react with important cellular components such as DNA, or the cell membrane. Cells may function poorly or die if this occurs.

Is there any Research on the Cancer fighting power of Lycopene?

Although more large-scale studies are needed before any definitive conclusions can be made, current research does suggest that lycopene from various tomato products is indeed associated with the lowered risk of several types of cancers. Several published reports are listed below.

Gann et al. 1999 - Cancer Research
The study examined initial plasma caroteniods (including lycopene) of 1872 men in 1982, and then followed them for 13 years. These men were randomly assigned to a placebo group or a group to receive beta-carotene and aspirin supplementation. Of the men studied, 578 developed prostate cancer versus 1294 control subjects. Lycopene was the only antioxidant with a significantly lower average blood level in those men with cancer as compared to those without cancer. In those men not receiving the aspirin and beta carotene, plasma lycopene levels were very strongly related to a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. This study concluded that increased consumption of tomato products and other lycopene-containing foods may reduce the onset of prostate cancer.

Giovannucci 1999 - Journal of the National Cancer Institute
This journal is a review of research studies available regarding cancer risk (not just prostate cancer) and intake of tomato based foods as well as blood lycopene levels. After identifying 72 studies that fit these criteria, it was found that an inverse relationship between tomato intake or blood lycopene levels and cancer risk was reported in 57 of them. Of these 57, it was found that 35 of these inverse relationships were statistically significant. It was also found that cancer protection from lycopene was strongest for prostate, colon and stomach cancers, but also appeared to have some benefit in the treatment of other cancers.

Rao et al. 1999 - Nutrition and Cancer
This study examined plasma and prostate lycopene levels in cancer patients and a control group free of cancer. Though only 12 patients were in each group, significantly lower serum and prostate lycopene levels were found in those with cancer. Levels of other carotenoid substances did not vary between the groups.

Additional Benefits

In addition to fighting cancer, the lycopene found in tomatoes has been associated with better mental activity in old age and a reduced risk of heart disease. A University of Maryland study found that tomatoes might protect the eyes by hampering macular degeneration, a cause of vision loss in older adults.

How do I get Lycopene into my body?

The best source of lycopene intake is through eating tomato-based products. This is more effective than supplementation. You will get the most lycopene through concentrates and processed products such as tomato paste, sauce, soup and canned tomatoes. Heating helps to release lycopene and adding a little light olive oil will increase absorption. Start packing your diet with more tomato based recipes and begin enjoying the cancer fighting power of the mighty tomato.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mike Brooks is a life long follower and proponent of the fitness lifestyle. Mr. Brooks believes that being healthy is a choice and includes not only a proper diet but total fitness of the mind, body and soul. His column appears weekly at www.ultimatehealthreport.com.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About the Author

Mike Brooks is a life long follower and proponent of the fitness lifestyle. Mr. Brooks believes that being healthy is a choice and includes not only a proper diet but total fitness of the mind, body and soul. His column appears weekly at www.ultimatehealthreport.com.

Be a doer not a talker!

Have you ever thought about how easy it is to talk yourself out of an action or talk around an issue and yet
do nothing about it?

Do you know people who love to tell others about what they want to achieve and how they envision their lives?
Yet five or even ten years down the line, they are still nowhere near to attaining their vision except for talking about it?

You do? Well ask yourself this question:

Are you constantly dreaming and talking about what you want, or are you pro-actively moving toward achieving it?

The sincerity you show in answering the question will be an indication of where you are right now on your path.

We all love to dream, and it is quite healthy to dream as long as we use the dream to motivate us into taking action.

Taking action keeps you in motion, which is essential, if you want
to be in the natural flow of exchange vibrationally and physically.
Being in motion does not necessarily require you running around and getting all stressed out. It is simply using your intuition to help you discern what needs to be done and then doing it with the right frame of mind.

Changes offer you the opportunity to strengthen your intuitive powers and use them as your 'life detector' for a greater and a more benevolent existence.

I remember when I started looking into Life Coaching and coaching training schools, how apprehensive and unsure I was about the whole thing. Primarily because I wasn't sure about the outcome
of it in Switzerland. But then, I suddenly realised that it was up to me to define the outcome I wanted and not allow the environment I live in dictate my outcome to me. So I forged ahead, did my training and became a Life Coach, instead of just talking about it!

Now I enjoy Coaching and I know beyond all doubts that my services are invaluable to many, including writing this newsletter!

REFLECTION

- What have you been talking or day-dreaming about incessantly?

- Remember, your dreams only remain dreams - castles in the air, nothing more nothing less unless you give them 'wings to fly'!

- What do you want to be able to look back to in 10 or 15 years from now?

- Are you happy with your life, or do you get up in the morning feeling you could be doing more?

ACTION POINT

Look into your list of dreams and choose one that is nearest to your heart.

How can you initiate an action and follow through?

Do you know someone who might be willing to help you with this? Sometimes all it requires is just to be open and simply ask for support. Remember, you don't have to do it all alone.

Decide to give yourself a timeline to get some results.

Each time you have a break-through along the way, relish the exhilarating joy of the present achievement to inspire and motivate you even more to accomplishing what you've set out to achieve.

About the Author

Kunbi Korostensky is a Certified naturopathic doctor and Psychotherapist. She lives in Switzerland and works in a private-owned practice. She is also a Life Changer Coach TM and enjoys helping recently divorced male executives find renewed energy, new sense of purpose and creativity in their lives. Please visit: www.embracingchanges.com for more information.

Are you Creative?

What makes a person Great? Is it really something that is in one's genes or is it something that one achieves over a period by going through ups and downs of life. Many people agree that great individuals whether they have the genes of greatness embedded in their DNA or they nurture it, all of them have one thing in common, their ability to look at things and situations differently. To look at something differently is what we call in a layman's language as Creativity. Creativity is nothing but looking at situations and things from a totally different perspective. Unlike greatness, it is something that can be mastered by anyone, provided one knows how it really works.

Years of research on creativity show that creative individuals tend to have many characteristics that differentiate them from others in the realm of creativity. Most of the research studies indicate that creative people are not necessarily geniuses (as we define and understand the term), but they are usually bright in seeing and capturing multiple perspectives of those thoughts that are conventional, and based on this, they keep creating number of ideas and options endlessly. Even though not all the ideas seem to make sense or could be termed as good ideas, but the sheer number of developing ideas is what makes them creative as compared to the rest of the lot. Creative individuals (do this idea juggling, even when many of them seem ridiculous to others) because they develop a strong belief in their own selves. They are confident and have the ability to go on and on with their ideas whilst others would stop at a point when they hit a wall or seem to arrive near an expected result. Due to their strong belief in their own abilities and their own self, creative individuals learn to express themselves both emotionally and intellectually. One of the most astounding aspects of creative individuals is their paradoxical nature. On one hand they are quite imaginative, and think or talk about conditions and notions that are unrealistic, but on the other they develop realistic approaches to whatever they think or do. This paradoxical nature of creative people is what makes them different from the rest of the lot. However, I personally believe that in spite of all these attributes that differentiate a creative individual from the majority, they are too constraining in defining a truly creative person. Creativity is not an end in itself but a means towards an end. It is what makes you a better person and steers you towards what is important in your life as an individual. So creativity is nothing, it is he culminating point of beauty, transformation, play and the act of being present.

Think over it!

About the Author

Download your FREE e-copy of copy of Amyn's book by clicking at www.youperform.com.

Creativity is the central topic of Amyn Lalji's new book Bumped into the Wall - A Tool for Unblocking your Creativity and Releasing Your Creative Spirit published in 2005.

Amyn Lalji is a Creativity and Leadership Coach. He helps individuals and organisations unblock their creative spirit and create fulfilling lives.

Generic Viagra Caverta Silagra Edegra Kamagra Meltabs

Netpharmaworld.com is an Online Pharmacy for getting FDA approved Generic Drugs That Are Chemically Identical To Their Branded Counterparts, And Are Sold At Substantial Discounts From The Branded Price. You Get Free Pills With Every Purchase And Save Around 70% As Compared To Other Pills.

All Generic Medications We Supply Have The Same Active Ingredient As That Of The Brand Name Drugs. Quality, Purity And Potency Of Ingredients Is The Same As The Brand Name Drugs Because They Are Made By The Same Manufacturers Who Export The Bulk Drugs To The World's Leading Pharmaceutical Companies In USA, Europe And Other Parts Of The World. Besides Our Generic Drugs Are Identical In Effect, Strength, Dosage Forms, Routes Of Administration, Usage Instructions - All Bioequivalent With Brand Drugs.

Products Supplied Are: Generic Viagra,(Sildenafil Citrate, Caverta, Silagra, Meltabs, Kamagra, Penegra, Zenegra Kamagra Oral Jelly, Viagra Soft Tabs), Generic Cialis (Tadalis, Forzest, Tadalafil, Tadalis-SX) Meltabs, Generic Meridia (Obestat, Sibutrex, Slimex), Generic Propecia (Finpecia, Fincar), Generic Lipitor - Atorlip, Generic Allegra - Allegra are also available with us..

Netpharmaworld Also Offers The Most Lucrative And Stimulating Pharmacy Affiliate Program On The Internet. You Earn A Whooping 25% Commission For Every New Sale & Reorder Of Generic Viagra And 20% Commission For Other Generic Drugs. You Also Get a Fabulous 5% Referral Bonus from affiliates who sign up under you

- Two - Tier Affiliate Program
- Affiliate Templates, Banners, Text Links
- Free To Join.
- Our Site Uses Real-Time Processing To Give You Truly Real-Time Stats.
- Affiliate's Customer Database, Commission Tracking System

Make Incredible Profits Selling The Most Popular Generic Medications, At Greatly Reduced Prices.

We Pay Through Paypal And Via Wire Transfer Modes On A Monthly Basis. One Order Every Day, Will Fetch You..$56 X 30 Days = $1680 A Month.
For More On Affiliate Policy: http://www.netpharmaworld.com/affiliate/

To Get More On Us, Visit http://www.netpharmaworld.com





About the author:


webmaster@netpharmaworld.com,
http://www.netpharmaworld.com

The Benifits of Home Ventilation

The purpose of a home ventilation system is to maintain a
healthy living environment by supplying fresh air to your
home while at the same time removing stale and polluted air.
Home ventilation also helps to maintain proper humidity
levels of 30 to 50 percent.

The air in your home is used many times over, often with
fresh air entering only when we open doors or windows. As we
strive to build homes more and more energy efficient, we
create an environment prone to indoor air quality problems,
thereby, reducing the homes ability to breathe and natural
air changes do not occur.

The reason for the buildup of indoor pollution in today's
homes is a direct result of our efforts to conserve energy.
With insufficient home ventilation, pollutants can build up
and become very concentrated. These pollutants come from
many sources and some, such as mold, are more problematic
when combined with high humidity levels, which is another
problem associated with inadequate home ventilation.

When humidity is too high, mold, mildew and rot can become
serious problems. A mold outbreak can cause thousands of
dollars worth of damage to your home and in some cases can
make a home uninhabitable.

Another problem with high humidity is dust mites. Every home
has dust mites and they thrive in humid conditions. This is
a concern for people who suffer from dust mite allergies.

Low humidity, on the other hand, can cause nose and throat
irritation, dry skin, wood can shrink and crack and hardwood
flooring can shrink and become noisy when walked on. Static
electricity is a symptom of low humidity.

Home ventilation is one of the most important things you can
manage, in order to maintain a healthy environment for you
and your loved ones.

Heat Recovery Ventilators, Air Exchangers, Kitchen and
Bathroom Exhaust Fans, Attic Ventilation Fans, Dryer Vents
and attic and crawl space vents are all important components
of proper home ventilation.

Pet Dander, Pollen, Lead, Dust Mites, Mold Spores, Tobacco
Smoke, Household Chemicals, Pesticides, Cleaning Supplies,
Paints and Solvents are only some of the common pollutants
that can build up without adequate home ventilation.

Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide and Soot from fuel burning
appliances and heating systems can also become a problem
without proper home ventilation.

Proper home ventilation can help reduce allergy and asthma
symptoms and help ease other respiratory ailments that
burden millions of people.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Troy Munn is the Webmaster of home-air-care.com where he
offers valuable information and tips on improving the air
quality of your home. To find more information, to help
you reduce allergy symptoms and control indoor pollution
visit: http://www.home-air-care.com

Moving Past Fear.

The Evangelical speaker Joyce Meyer says, If you're afraid to do it, just DO IT AFRAID. No one will blame you for being fearfulwhat you will be blamed for is letting that fear immobilize you. So no matter what it takes, keep moving.

Fear is much like a quagmireit slurps at our feet and if we stand still long enough, it begins to suck us down. It's hard to get out of, but it is possible.

If you're stuck in fear as you shoot for success, there are several ways out:

- First, consider the source. Where did the fear come from? Have you been dwelling on the difficulties instead of the opportunities? Have you been listening to those who are cynics and pessimists, instead of coaching yourself with positive words and people? If so, MOVE ON. GET AWAY from people and situations that drag you down.

- Second, take your checklist and note what you HAVE accomplished. Look at your list of goals and the baby steps you're taking to get there, and on a separate sheet of paper (or a separate document in your computer), begin to list everything you have accomplished. This will begin to empower you to move on and leave the fear behind.

- Third, take stock of your talents and skills. Fear often tells us that we don't have what it takes Show fear as the liar it is: list your skills, all your positive attributes. Then look at the problem again, after you have a new appreciation for your God-given talents and abilities.

- Fourth, don't underestimate the power of prayer. Regardless of your spiritual beliefs, there is an amazing power that comes from releasing your fear to a God Who loves you and is looking out for you. Don't bottle the fear uplet it go. You don't need it anyhow!

- Finally, remember this acronym when facing fear:

F = False

E = Evidence

A = Appearing

R = Real

For that's really what fear isit is an unrealistic look (false look) at something and attempting to make you believe it (appearing to be real).

Once you know these things, you'll be able to move past your fear and on to the next step you need to be successful!

About the Author: Joel Suarez is an established online marketer and publisher. His expertise field is in direct marketing and multi-level marketing. He specializes in developing new tips, tricks, ideas, and tools to help new and pro's alike Internet marketers to start, develop, and establish their businesses online. - http://www.homebiz4u2profit.com

Source: www.isnare.com

What's So Special About Cinnamon?

I don't know about you, but just the smell of cinnamon makes me feel warm and fuzzy all over.

My favorite cookies to make is Snickerdoodles because I just LOVE the smell of them baking. There's just something warm and delicious about it.

The sense of smell is powerful - and when my kids smell Cinnamon, they are going to feel warm and fuzzy all over because of the fun we've had in the kitchen.

But, you might be surprised to know that the history of Cinnamon goes waaaay back - it was one of the first trade spices.

In fact, cinnamon is mentioned in the Bible - it was used in the combination of ingredients used to make a holy anointing oil for the tabernacle:
Moreover the Lord spake unto Moses saying,

Take thou also unto thee principal spices, of pure myrrh five hundred shekels, and of sweet cinnamon half so much, even two hundred and fifty shekels, and of sweet calamus two hundred and fifty shekels,

And of cassia five hundred shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, and of oil olive an hin:

And thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil.
Exodus 30:22-25 NKJV
The ointment or oil was used to anoint the tabernacle of the congregation, the ark of the testimony, the table and all the vessels, the candlestick, the altar of incense, the altar of burnt-offering, etc.

I find two things interesting about this passage:
That cinnamon was an ingredient in this holy anointing oil
That is is called an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary.
Does cinnamon have health benefits as well?

There are cinnamon pills for diabetes, cinnamon bark used medicinally by the Chinese for calming stomach acids, cinnamon bark being used in India for childbirth labor, and cinnamon increasing blood circulation and creating a warm feeling.

Well, didn't I start out by saying just the smell of cinnamon makes me feel warm and fuzzy all over?

About the Author

Laura Bankston is author of Internationally selling Cooking with Kids Curriculum: Homeschool Cooking in a Box and the Homeschool Cookbook. She currently home schools her three children, maintains home school support websites, and manages their family-owned service business. For information on her curriculum that includes lots of recipes with cinnamon, visit www.homeschoolcookbook.com

Are you in search of the most informative opinion regarding

Are you in search of the most informative opinion regarding dry skin care.
Often when you are looking for high-class advice about dry skin care, you'll find it hard unscrambling quality advice from ill-advised dry skin care proposals and directions so it's astute to know how to qualify the information you are often given.

Red, Itchy, Dry Skin Could Be Eczema
Get tips on caring for dry skin, learn about treatment options, or ask for an eczema information kit.



Here's a few guidelines which we believe you should use when you're searching for information regarding dry skin care. Please be aware that the advice we are giving you is only applicable to internet based information regarding dry skin care. Unfortunately we are unable to provide any tips or guidance for researching in 'real world' situations.

The Beauty Shoppe - Jan Marini Bioglycolic Travel Kit I
Purchase Jan Marini Bioglycolic Travel Kit I for normal or dry skin, which contains glycolic acid skin care. Find Dermalogica, ARTec, Nioxin, and other brand names.



An interesting tip to pursue when you are presented with information and suggestions on a dry skin care web site is to ascertain who owns the site. Doing this could reveal the owners dry skin care credentials The quickest way to work out who owns the dry skin care site is to find the 'about' page.

Any worthwhile website providing information on dry skin care, will almost certainly provide an 'about' or 'contact' page which will record the owner's details. The particulars should reveal some indication about the owner's skill and understanding. This means you can conduct an appraisal about the webmaster's training and understanding, to offer help regarding dry skin care.



About the author:



Sue Young is the webmaster for http://www.dry-skin-care.info

Artificial Intelligence ... what have we learned through nat

During the late '80s and early '90s, I had the opportunity to work with expert systems in real-time production environments. I found artificial intelligence, or AI, to be thoroughly intriguing. I even went so far as to write an expert system package, under Microsoft Windows, called WindExS. However, as I continued my work, and expanded into other areas of knowledge management and, eventually, remote viewing, I began to find some unusual inconsistencies in the AI world and the desires to create ruly intelligent and hinking machines.

One of the issues that people usually claim as a requirement of true intelligence is that one must have a soul. These ideas and dabbling prompted me to write a short screenplay entitled Sylvie, which was the story of an emotionally intelligent system. That small inkling of creativity still did not allow me to delve as deeply into the topic as I had wanted. However, it did bring up the question: what is a soul?

--- What is AI? ---

AI is the science and engineering of making machines intelligent, especially through the creation of intelligent software. It is similar to the task of using computers to understand human intelligence, but AI does not have to confine itself to methods that are biologically observable. Intelligence is the computational part of the ability to define a plan and achieve goals. Different types and levels of intelligence occur in people, animals, and some machines. However, the ultimate premise behind creating an intelligent machine is the ability to think creatively, solve problems using abstract information, and devise new solutions.

--- The Biological Parallel Computer ---

Consider the vast amount of information that we acquire and process every day. It is difficult to imagine that so much information and activity could be stored in such a small amount of tissue and fluid. Scientists have been theorizing that, indeed, the mind is not as much of a storage device as it is a communications device to some larger knowledge base. The mind appears to be a way to pre-process data for storage and a way to analyze data for use while all the time maintaining a connection for data storage and acquisition with this knowledge base.

This knowledge base surrounds us with information and intelligence. Everything that every creature in the Universe knows, and will ever know, is stored and made available for us by simply asking for it. However, accessing it requires a connection, a field, which connects us all together in a large io-circuit. It can be seen as a iological parallel computing environment. The information presented by this bio-circuit consists of a limitless and accessible Universal source of knowledge.

--- Why be creative? ---

I remember my days in school where I was taught that, indeed, daydreaming and excessive creativity could destroy your life. However, the important thing that I learned along the way is that, without creativity, there can be no progress. Creativity is a way to expand one's consciousness by taking abstract ideas and turning them into a new reality. It is a way to take what you know as an absolute, and stretch it into the unknown. Each stretch takes you further and expands your absolutes along the way.

Without creativity, you would do the same things that you've always done in life without ever moving forward or backward. Consider it as being caught in a rut. You can't leave the rut because you can't figure out how to get out of it. When you think creatively, you're taking things that you know, applying it to things that you don't, and devising a solution to achieve a goal.

To access the vast resources of creativity, the mind reaches into the bio-circuit and extracts bits and pieces of information that it can use to create intelligent solutions. By developing your creative abilities, you are opening that circuit to more knowledge, a greater intellect, and a broader understanding of life.

--- What is the soul anyway? ---

A discussion of creativity once again brings up the question of: what is the soul? After some thought and evaluation, I would have to say that the soul is the link, the transceiver, between our physical world and the bio-circuit. It is the living essence of everything within each of us.

By closing ourselves off into our own worlds and hiding our souls under the muck and mire of challenges, we close off our connection to the bio-circuit. Our soul essentially dies and we become a stand-alone computer with only the knowledge we have saved as our guide. However, by working to bring your soul forward and using your creativity in everything you do, you can acquire knowledge from every part of the Universe.

--- True AI ---

Scientists have tried to mimic the way the human brain functions. Storage, processing, intelligence, and self-learning are all components of AI. However, what if the basic premise of how the brain functions was --- wrong? Indeed, it provides control over our bodies and accepts stimuli; however, what if the ideas of processing, intelligence, storage, and self-learning all truly based on the connection of our minds with the bio-circuit. In this way, to create a mimic of the human intellect, we must understand how we interact with each other through the bio-circuit.

--- What's next? ---

What an unusual foray into strange territory. However, this has been a general concept that has been eating at me for years. It wasn't until I began remote viewing that I was able to see and apply the ideas of Universal intelligence to the ideas of artificial intelligence. I am not going to say that, in this context, a machine cannot have a soul, as stranger things have happened. However, I will say that the true nature of intelligence will not be realized until we understand and believe the true purpose and function of the soul.

Edward B. Toupin is an author, remote viewer, life-strategy coach, counselor, and technical writer living in Las Vegas, NV. Among other things, he authors books, articles, and screenplays on topics ranging from career success through life organization and fulfillment. For more information, e-mail Edward at etoupin@toupin.com or visit his sites at http://www.toupin.com or http://www.make-life-great.com.

Pray Before You Vote

I was hesitant to share these words out of a concern of turning them into a religious sermon or political plight. But then I decided to share them anyway because, thanks to President George W. Bush, I am still free to speak my mind the way I choose.

I consider myself to be a woman of very strong faith. Being actively involved in a wonderful Lutheran church, I can not think of a better way to spend my Sunday mornings. But despite my religious convictions, I am human, after all, prone to wander, make wrong choices, and be, well, human. But it is my faith that carries me through those oh-too-often human moments in my life. It is that wondrous Amazing Grace that finds me each time I am lost and that same Amazing Grace will eventually carry me home.

It is within this strong faith that I find my peace, whether I'm singing with my church choir, kayaking down a lazy river as the mist rises from the water, hiking alone among the sweet-smelling pine trees of some forest, or doing something so simple as playing with my cat Sophie. I look around me and marvel at God's miraculous creations and I realize how fortunate I am to be an American, free to enjoy everything this beautiful life has to offer.

As my sense of peace grows, so does my spiritual maturity, again, despite my imperfections. As more years stretch out behind me, the more I seem to understand how God works. I don't profess to know how Something, or Someone, so profound as God thinks; no, that is a feat left for academia to ponder. But evidence of how He works can be seen in His people. I don't mean to narrow this down to the Christian God; indeed, the God of all religions has something special to share with the world and all do so in His own unique way. But because I am a Christian, there is, and will be, no other God before me. Which is why I must say this:

I do not care what happened on that fateful election night in the year 2000. I don't care what was counted, how many times it was counted, what was not counted, or who did the counting. By the very convictions of my own faith and with every ounce of my heart I believe that God was looking out for America that night. He chose the right man at the right time. If anyone else had been chosen, it is true that we might not be at war right now. No one likes war, whether they have the tremendous responsibility of declaring war or actually fighting in one. It's ugly business. But to not go to war would've been the gravest mistake in American history; indeed, in world history. Why? Because it is never a mistake to protect the freedoms within God's creation - not just American freedoms, but those of the entire world. Regardless of what God a person worships, I guarantee that that God wishes everyone in His creation could praise his name without fear, fear of torture, prison, deadly gases, or even death. Freedom from fear is what this war is all about. And again, thanks to President Bush and our superior military forces, one of the world's worst initiators of this fear left his power buried in a little spider hole.

But this is only the beginning. We are waging a battle against an evil more destructive, more soul-damaging and heart-wrenching, than we've ever experienced before. This is not an enemy that can be dealt with by using sensitivity and negotiation. No, a kum-by-yah approach will not satiate this enemy. A kum-by-yah approach will not keep our country safe. George W. Bush will. Giving these terrorists a big group hug is not in our President's agenda. Keeping America safe from fear, however, is, and he does what it takes to make sure this is done right. This is what a strong, confident, and faith-filled leader does. This man loves the same creation as I do - the gently flowing rivers, the thick canopied forests, the spirit-filled choirs singing hymns of praise. And as I journey down life's road, savoring each precious, free, moment that I am given, my soul will rest in the joy of knowing that I walk under the same sky with a man who loves God, loves all of God's people, and will remain strong in order to protect them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


About the Author
Kathy Simcox, Columbus, Ohio, United States
hrdude28@hotmail.com
Kathy works as an Administrative Assistant in the College of the Arts at The Ohio State University. She holds a BA in Psychology and is currently working on a second BA in Religious Studies. In addition to writing, her passions include hiking, biking, kayaking, photography, and singing in her Lutheran church choir. She is also known to read an occasional book.

Avoid Further Mesothelioma Injury Through Prompt Treatment

Mesothelioma injury can be classified into three main groups, Pleural (chest), Peritoneal (abdominal) and Pericardial (heart). All three types of Mesothelioma injury are mainly cause through exposure to an Asbestos related substance.

Mesothelioma injury arises when the Mesothelioma cells surrounding the lungs, heart, or abdominal organs become cancerous. The Mesothelioma cells change to form nodules, which can then clump together to form a tumor, or tumors around the organ.

In more extreme cases of Mesothelioma Cancer, the Mesothelioma tumor can break through the walls of the organs that it surrounds and cause internal damage to the organ. Also, in some cases the Cancer can travel through the blood stream and affect other organs, not directly surrounded by the original Mesothelioma Cancerous Cells.

The origins of Mesothelioma injury begin when a person is exposed to an asbestos related substance. The person either inhales the Asbestos fibers, or the fibers enter the skin. These fibers either lodge in the lungs, or travel through the body and affect the heart, or abdominal organs.

The bodies natural defense system will attempt to eradicate the fibers from the body, through attempts to expel the fibers. However, some fibers will become lodged in the Mesothelioma cell layers that provide a protective layer around the lungs, heart and abdominal area.

Over time, the Mesothelioma cells surrounding the fibers, can change consistency and become cancerous. It is at this stage that the Mesothelioma injury begins to occur, as it turns into Mesothelioma.

However, Mesothelioma injury also includes the conditional affects that occur as a result of having Mesothelioma Cancer. Some of these conditional affects include, immune deficiency, which can lead to a slow break down of the bodies defense system.

Once the bodies defense system begins to break down the body can become subject to colds and other such illnesses. The overall affects of having Mesothelioma Cancer can lead to an array of Mesothelioma injuries and has the potential to cause major organ failure.

In order to prevent the adverse affects of Mesothelioma injury, Mesothelioma doctors have been implementing various treatments that aim to prevent further damage. Some of these treatments include, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immune augmentative therapy.

In regard to Mesothelioma Cancer, Surgery aims to remove the Cancerous Mesothelioma cells, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill the Cancerous cells. Radiation therapy also aims to eliminate the Mesothelioma cells, while immune augmentative therapy aims to restore the body's natural immune system to a level in which it can be effective in helping to fight the effects of Mesothelioma Cancer.

All of these treatment methods are aimed at preventing further Mesothelioma injury to the patient. If you, or someone you know, have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma Cancer, ensure that you seek immediate treatment to prevent the affects of Mesothelioma Cancer and to avoid further Mesothelioma injury.

About the Author

Learn more about mesothelioma treatment and asbestos litigation go here: http://www.mesothelioma-treatment-center.com/mesothelioma-injury.htm

Arizona Assisted Living: Resident Rights

According to the Arizona Administrative Code (R9-10-710), those who reside in assisted living facilities in Arizona have certain rights. In addition to having the right to live in an environment that promotes dignity, independence, self-determination, individuality, privacy and the right of choice, the following are a few of the rights given to residents who reside in assisted living facilities:

1.The right to be free from physical and chemical restraints.

2.The right to privacy regarding correspondence, visitation, communications, financial and personal affairs, hygiene and health related services.

3.The right to be involved in the creation of a written service plan and the right to review and re-negotiate the service plan at any time.

4.The right to refuse services as long as the services are not court ordered or the health, safety or general welfare of other individuals is not compromised due to the refusal of services.

5.The right to request to relocate or refuse to relocate within the facility based upon the needs and desires of the resident, and the availability of options.

6.The right to choose activities, schedules and daily routines.

7.The right to choose a primary care provider, pharmacy, or other service provider and to assume additional costs as a result of such choices.

8.The right to refuse to participate in social, recreational, rehabilitation, religious, political and community activities.

9.The right to be free from discrimination, and to be given the same civil and human rights others are given.

10.The right to be treated with consideration and respect.

Upon moving into an assisted living facility, a copy of the complete list of Resident Rights must be given to the resident or their representative. In addition, the facility is required to provide current phone numbers of several agencies such as D.E.S. Adult Protective Services and the Governor's Office for Americans with Disabilities. If a resident or their representative feels these rights are being violated, the resident has the right to submit grievances to the facility, or other outside agencies. In summary, those residing in assisted living facilities have the right to remain as independent as possible, while residing in a facility that promotes such independence and strives to enhance the quality of life for their residents.




About the author:



Torey Farnsworth has over 12 years of experience working with seniors. Ms. Farnsworth's vast expertise encompasses a wide variety of senior issues ranging from adult care to elder law. Ms. Farnsworth owns and operates a senior care placement business in Arizona called Horizon Senior Care Referral. Her placement services are free to seniors and their families. For information on placement services in Arizona, visit www.adultcarecentral.com

What Are You Afraid Of?

Have you ever wondered just what you are afraid of?
What stops you from taking the next step forward that
will keep you on the path of achieving your goals?

The reason for most people's fear is buried deep within
themselves. A low level of self-confidence and self-esteem
makes us feel unhappy about ourselves. Because our
thoughts are based on feelings of inadequacy, we set
our boundaries and standards very low and achieve
little in our lives.

One of the greatest realizations that you may ever
experience in your life is that the emotion of fear
is part of being human. It's perfectly normal to
experience misgivings and doubts!

Fear will never go away no matter how self-confident
or successful we are.

The key to overcoming our fears is to feel good about
ourselves and think positively. We can then begin to
use the energy that fear creates positively in our lives.

A really simple way of beginning to understand your
fears is to get a piece of paper and make a list of
what makes you feel most afraid. Alongside each entry,
write down the action that you will take in order to
overcome that fear. Give it a go!

Do You Work To Live or Live To Work?

Let's be realistic here - hands up all of you who bounce out of bed every single morning, raring to get to work and enjoying yourself every minute of the day?

If you didn't put your hand up (even metaphorically), you're not alone. There have been so many articles published recently about working statistics in the UK - that Brits work the longest hours in the EU, that we have higher risks of heart disease than our continental friends due to stress and poor diet, there has been a rise in people downshifting and moving to the country to raise chickens and weave baskets. But many people who dream of doing just that don't, especially when there are so many television programs on, which show all the grisly details about how people who do downshift simply exchange one set of problems for another. While there are many people who make a real success of changing their careers in such a dramatic fashion, it might be worthwhile sorting out what problems you do have with your current career before making that radical decision to downshift.

First Things First

The first place to start is to think about why you chose to do what you do - what was it about Law that attracted you originally? Was it the logic that attracted you? Or the feeling of winning? Or the love of solving problems? Or was it the 'safe' thing to do? Were your parents lawyers and pushed you in that direction? Was it for the money? Even if the last few questions ring true for you, you can still enjoy your work.

What do you actually do?

Think about all the aspects of your job: what do you actually do during the day? Speak to people on the phone? Do research? Prepare reports? Present at meetings? If you do more than two of the above on a daily basis, you're not so different to many office workers.

So think about what part of the day you look forward to - apart from going-home time. Do you enjoy the challenge of presenting, or love learning new facts, or talking and interacting with other people? Try thinking about your day in terms of the actual things you do and what you can get out of each different task. Could you delegate or reassign the tasks you don't like doing and shift the majority of your workload towards the things you prefer? Or can you think about it all in a different way? How much of your day is spent doing the things you actually like? If it is less that 50%, will you settle for that? Try doing a rated pro/con list of everything you do, with each item being scored on a 1-5 scale, where 1 means you love it and 5 means you can't stand it. If you have lots of 1s on your pro list and lots of 3s on your con list, that's good, but if it is the other way around, and your pro items are all scored at 3 and your con list is all at 5, you may want to think about re-evaluating your career.

People Problems

Treat people are THEY wish to be treated

What if the people that surround you are what makes you dread walking through the door in the morning? Do you have an annoying boss, colleague or client? If you heart sinks when a certain person opens their mouth - for whatever reason (condescension, cattiness or plain stupidity), try thinking about what exactly it is that is rubbing you the wrong way. You're you - deserving of respect and care. But doesn't that go the other way too? There's that old saying reat others as you wish to be treated, but surely everyone is different? Shouldn't that really be altered to say reat everyone as THEY wish to be treated? This requires you to actually attempt to understand other people - and while it takes that bit more effort, it can help you reduce unnecessary friction and make the people who surround you daily into more than just people who work in the same location.

Change Yourself, not Others

No doubt you've heard it before - you can't change someone else. What you can do is change your attitude and behaviour towards them. If you're being defensive around one person always, try thinking about why that is - is there some niggle in your mind saying that this person is not on the same level as you. Are you jealous of the way they are and the way they live? If they are junior to you in experience and position, but are the 'darling' of the boss, is their progress something that you wish had happened to you? What would happen if you started treating them as an equal?

Respond with Care

What about if you are being treated unfairly? If you are reacting to this with a very hostile manner, you are really tying yourself into a viscious circle where it will be impossible to escape with your self-esteem, dignity and reputation intact. I don't mean to say 'take it on the chin', but you can do a lot about situations like these without actually bringing yourself down to a level where relations are irreparably damaged. For instance, you don't need to show your boss that your colleague is being badly behaved by using the style of a schoolgirl tattling to her teacher. Try speaking to the person who is upsetting you and explaining why their behaviour is so hurtful, and suggesting an alternate way of interacting. Often, people really just don't realise that what they are doing is offensive or mean, and may actually think that it is a lighthearted joke. And if you are able to present this to them in a way that does not resemble a personal attack, you may be able to rescue the situation without any problems at all. Obviously there are times where this won't work, and this may require you to evaluate the values of those around you - and if they don't match yours, you will need to think your options through in rather more detail.

Case Study 1 - Work-Life Balance

One client of mine recently posed the problem that there was no chance of her ever enjoying her job, and refused to consider looking for a new one. I was quite shocked by this statement - as she was basically refusing to do anything about her problem, but I couldn't resist the challenge. So I set her the task of removing two 'bad' things from other areas of her life (not her work), and replacing them with two 'good things' every week and introducing a weekly reward into her life for all the 'bad' things she still had to do. Initially she started by replacing an unhealthy breakfast with a healthy one, and secondly she replaced vegging out mindlessly in front of the telly every evening with going out for dinner regularly. As her treat in the first week she went and had a massage and facial on Saturday. Each week she repeated this process, with things like gettting a new chair for her home office so she could sit correctly while surfing the internet, and going and doing the exercise she really enjoyed (squash) rather than going to the gym. One day, she told me that she was actually enjoying getting up every morning as she had something to look forward to every evening after work. She no longer slept late at the weekend and did nothing of note for two whole days, but got out and did things that she'd been missing, like going to galleries and the theatre. She was in a highly paid job so all she was doing before was watching her bank balance rise and rise, work harder and harder and never see any benefit from working herself into the ground. Most importantly, she started rediscovering her love for her work as she now had the energy to tackle her highly demanding job.

Case study 2 - Control Issues

Another client of mine was constantly rushing from one drama to another and loved her job in theory, but hated it in practice, and realised that her lack of time was affecting her life outside her work as well as her health. We implemented a prioritising plan and she committed herself to learning a relaxation technique, but also we tackled the cause of her stress: her belief that each and every task had to be done immediately and by her alone. By learning how to delegate and prioritise - as well as understanding where her need for control came from - she was able to alleviate and ultimately remove the cause of her stress - and ultimately become happier and more fulfilled, and, most importantly more productive: she's just closed a deal which she truly thought she would have no chance on thanks to the sheer volume of work that needed doing in preparation. Her assistant now handles most of that, and appreciates the extra responsibility along with the pay raise!

NB

It is all too important that when dealing with stress you attack it on both sides - the symptoms and the cause. If you only treat the symptoms you will keep having to treat them. By removing the cause, you remove the need to constantly treat the symptoms as well.

Stay or Go - fix your problems first either way

If you are truly not enjoying your job, it is important to find out why. If it is due to something that is relatively simple to fix, there is no need to go through the hassle of upheaving your whole life. However, there are many cases where the career you're in is just not suited to you. Do you really want to be spending a third of your life (or more) doing what you're doing? If you don't, you're not alone. Recent reports show that the average number of careers a person has in their working lifetime is 3 - and that figure is increasing. If you are truly bored by your job, gather up your resources and change! Remember though, that you may be taking the same problems with you, so it might be worth working them out now and getting them fixed before you make the move.

About The Author

© Charlotte Burton 2004. Charlotte Burton is a Licensed Career Coach & Psychometric Assessor. For more information, to sign up for the regular ezine, or to request your free consultation, visit the website at www.lifeisvital.com.

charlotteb@lifeisvital.com

Attacking Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and Depression are different forms of behavioral disorders that affect the whole life of a person. Anxiety is an emotional disturbance caused due to imbalance in the body system of a person. The Depression is a disturbance caused due to chemical imbalance in the nervous system of the patient. In order to treat Anxiety and Depression, attacking them with proper medical aid is necessary.

Anxiety and Depression can not be fully cured. Though, we can attack them with the help of a proper medication and a psychological treatment. Lots of therapies can also be brought out for the proper treatment of Anxiety and Depression. The medical practitioners hold sessions in order to understand the mental condition of the patient and then proceed to give an appropriate medical aid.

For attacking the feelings of hopelessness, you should prepare a schedule for yourself. The items on your schedule will help your healing process, and checking them off each day may give you a sense of satisfaction. Diet, exercise, doctor's appointments, entertainment, calls with friends, research, and massage therapy can be a part of your schedule.

Anti-Anxiety Medications, Anti-Depressants, Mood Stabilizers and other medications are useful in attacking Anxiety. When the treatment fails in the case of Depression, electroconvulsive Therapy can provide the necessary treatment. Even the Self-Help Support Groups help people in treating their problems by making them sit with others and hear the other experiences to get out of the prevalent stress.

Attacking Anxiety and Depression is quite necessary to get rid off these troubles. It is because if you don't take proper medication for them, they can cause various hazardous diseases in the long run.

About the Author

Online entrepreneur Sara Jenkins, is dedicated to helping others and their needs to succeed in life by offering free tips everyday. To learn more about her free tips program, and to sign up for her FREE how-to articles and FREE bonus how-to books and resources, visit www.TipsEveryDay.com

How to get the Alzheimer's patient off the road... Taking th

For most people, driving is a necessity as well as a symbol of independence. There are very few people that will easily give up their independence and give you the keys to their vehicle. Yet for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, driving a vehicle can pose serious risks and endanger themselves or others. The decision of when to stop driving is one that Alzheimer's patients and their families often face.

There are many opinions concerning the issue of driving for the Alzheimer's patient. If he trusts his physician, the doctor may have more success than the primary care giver in letting the patient know when to stop driving. The physician may be trusted by the patient and be able to explain to him that his medical condition may interfere with his driving. This scenario is good for the caregiver as it takes the responsibility off you and puts it on the medical condition, with the physician being the messenger.

Below you will find some guidelines for approaching this sensitive issue with your family and your loved one. Ask your relatives to back you by being pleasantly supportive of your loved one. For a while, make sure he has a ride to familiar frequented places. Routine is so important.

Humor is almost always a positive way to cope with this situation. A fun way of approaching the subject is to tell him how lucky he is to have his own chauffeur!

However, knowing when to take the keys out of his hands can become tricky. Here are some warning signs that will help you make the decision:

• Car accidents

• Stopping in traffic for no apparent reason.

• Getting confused between the brake and the gas pedals

• Getting a ticket for moving violations

• Getting lost when places are familiar

• Getting agitated or irritated when they are driving

• Not anticipating dangerous situations

• Delayed responses to unexpected situations

• Driving at inappropriate speeds

• Incorrect signaling

• Getting confused at exists

• Switching into a wrong lane

If some of the warning signs above are present, then it's time for family members to gather and discuss the problem. Sometimes it is easier to be together to face a difficult decision and intervene at an early stage when signs of impairment are not yet critical

The accident rate for drivers 85 years old and over is nine times higher than drivers between ages 25 and 69. The primary care giver may perform routine exams to assess the ability and skills of the patient and conform to state and local restrictions and laws. If you are concerned about your loved one's driving, take measures to keep him and others safe on the road.

You may find some additional information by finding a specialist in your area and you can contact the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (1-800-290-2344), www.driver-ed.org. Your local Department of Motor Vehicles may also be able to help you on this subject.

About The Author

William G. Hammond, JD is a nationally known elder law attorney and founder of The Alzheimer's Resource Center. He is a frequent guest on radio and television and has developed innovative solutions to guide families who have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's. For more information you can visit his website at http://www.beatalzheimers.com.

Aromatherapy for Stress Relief at Work

Most people work a 40 hour week so we can estimate that we typically spend about 2,000 hours at work each year. And many people work even more than this. Yet we often don't take the time to ensure that our job setting is a pleasant place to be. Our jobs are often very stressful and stress is a known trigger for many common ailments and diseases. Many studies have been done on the relationship between job stress and a variety of ailments. Mood and sleep disturbances, upset stomach, headaches and disturbed relationships with family and friends are examples of stress related problems that are quick to develop.

Before you think about stress reduction, start by identifying the particular stresses in your work and the effect they have on you. What, specifically, is it about your work situation that makes you feel anxious, angry, frustrated, burned out, depressed, etc? Do you have a difficult boss or co-worker? Do you have too much work and not enough time to do it? When you come up with your list of stressors, address them one at a time.

Managing stress is a slow and measured process that should take place over time and not all at once. Take stock of the situation and make a note of the things that are causing you the most concern. Look at things that you can do, or ask for support that will ease the situation, no matter how small. Set some achievable goals towards removing the problem. Think back to some similar situations you have overcome and apply these lessons.

A common reaction to a stressful situation is to try to escape, at least temporarily, by taking a coffee break or a quick smoke. But this only adds to the toxins in your body and does not attempt to deal with the underlying causes. A more effective response is to confront the tasks that cause you stress. Develop healthy habits one day at a time. Take a short walk in the morning, eat regularly, take time over your meals, and keep in touch with your mind and body.

It can be very beneficial to change your own outlook and actions rather than trying to change others who you believe are the cause of your stress. No matter what the causes of your tension and stress are, there are many strategies you can use to help protect you against the ill effects of stress. We elaborate on a different strategy to relieve stress each month in this newsletter.

Implementing aromatherapy into your life can go a long way in easing your stress as well as the stress levels of others around you. One of the main attributes of pure essential oils is their ability to relieve stress with immediate positive benefits. Because of the emotional elements which are at play in stress-related conditions, the choice of essential oils depends largely on the causes of the problem and the temperment of each individual and how they respond under pressure. Only use oils that appeal to you. If you do not like the scent, it will not have the desired effect.

There are many ways to bring aromatherapy into the workplace. Diffusers heat essential oils and allows their molecules to be released into the atmosphere. Inhaling different essential oils can alter your mood, stimulate creativity, help concentration and rid an area of airborne viruses and bacteria. Scenting your office with Lavender essential oil is said to reduce computer errors at least 25%.
If you have to work in an air conditioned or stuffy building, using essential oils in a diffuser or spritzing a spritzer can really clear the air. Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint and Rosemary are all excellent for a quick pick me up. Try Chamomile, Lavender, Orange or Sandalwood oil. All are thought to help combat stress and tension. Here are a few more ideas to get you started.

If you can't use a diffuser at work, simply put a drop of essential oil on a tissue and keep with you to sniff whenever you need to.

Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil on the cardboard tube inside a roll of toilet paper to fragrance the bathroom at work.

Let scent be your calling card. Simply add your favorite essential oils to cotton balls and place your business cards and the cotton balls in a box with a lid. Keep tightly closed for at least 1 week.

Mix 5 drops of Lavender essential oil (or your favorite oil) into about a
teaspoon of Jojoba or Almond oil. Dab on a cloth and wipe the surfaces of your desk
and top of the computer. When the heat of the computer warms the oil there is a
pleasant fresh fragrance wafting through the air.

There is help for your stress! Aromatherapy has been proven to be excellent for stress relief as well as increasing productivity and efficiency levels. The possibilities are only limited to your imagination. For more ideas and information, check out our website that is over 100 pages large and growing.




About the author:



Susan Stewart is co-founder and partner of It's My Nature, an Aromatherapy business based in Florence, Oregon. Providing dried herbs, essential oils and many comfort and stress reducing products. Catering to the beginner with small sizes, recipes and an informative monthly newsletter. See It's My Nature's large, informative website at http://itsmynature.netor a free brochure is available by calling 1-888-445-5051.

Arizona Drug Rehab Finding Help in Arizona

The state of Arizona has one of the worst drug problems in the United States. Historically and currently, the state is known as a transhipment location for a variety of drugs, including heroin, cocaine and marijuana, which are imported from other countries. As a result, these and other drugs are widely available in the state, and their abuse is common. There are probably few states that require the presence of rehabilitation centers as this one does - thankfully Arizona drug rehab centers are some of the best in the world.



There is a wide range of treatment centers in Arizona that employ a range of different techniques to help the patient break their addiction. Some of these will have particular specialisations, which might be more appropriate for certain types of patient, so it is always sensible to find out as much as you can about an Arizona drug rehab before making an appointment. Services like drugs-rehabs.org will be able to provide you with treatment center listings in your area, with basic descriptive information to help you make the best decision for you. Some of the features that might help influence your decision for the best:



Does the center have a particular religious affiliation? While Christian centers, for example, might be willing to accept non-Christian patients, many will feel more comfortable in a non-denominational center, or one that practises their own faith.

What type of care is available? Ensure that your chosen center has a program specifically for drug detoxification. Other kinds of therapy will be useful, but it will be necessary for the patient to make a commitment to ceasing drug use also.

What facilities are available? Some Arizona drug rehab centers will only cater to outpatients, which may not offer enough support to a badly addicted patient. Find a center that provides inpatient care.

What payments options are available? Does the center accept Medicare, Medicaid or private health insurance? If you are not involved with any of these programs, can your center offer sliding scale payments?



There are many high quality Arizona drug rehab treatment centers available, but it is important that you choose the best one for you or your loved one. Never hesitate to contact a center directly to find out more about their facilities, or to find out whether they can cater to any special needs you might have. The right treatment center is out there, and with a little investment of time and effort, you will find it. The best treatment for you or your loved one will be well worth it.


Jeff Lakie is the founder of Rehab Resources a website providing information on drug and alcohol rehabilitaiton treatments

Are You Happier Drinking Beer With Your Buddies than Getting

Are You Happier Drinking Beer With Your Buddies than Getting Laid?

This is the king of seduction speaking. Needless to say I do not sit around drinking beer with my buddies. Number one I do not have a buddy and number two if I did we wouldn't be sitting around drinking beer we would be out picking up chicks. My name is Elvis Preston King and I pick up and seduce more hot young 18 year old chics than any man on earth. Sure I like drinking a beer and sure I would like to have a buddy, but not at the expensive of losing my chance to make love with hot young chics every single day. What's my secret? I don't sit around waiting for girls to come to me. I go where the girls are and where they would least be ready for the king to make a fast approach.

I never have hung out with the boys. When my buddies were playing pool I was off cruising for girls when I was young and it hasn't change much now either. With practice my skill level has gone to expert level. I now get laid more than any man on the planet.

A little confidence and a good self image goes a long way. Oh, so you don't have any self confidence. Don't fret Elvis Preston King has enough for the both of us Call me and we can and will get laid.

Otherwise just keep sitting there in that bar chair talking about how Elvis Preston King is crock of bull that is just a myth. If that makes you happy keep it up. But it is making passionate love to one to three hot chics per day that make the king happy.

Track me down at loverboybachelor@yahoo.com

After we get laid THEN we can sit around drinking beer and talking about the girls that did NOT get away!

About the Author

Elvis Preston King is the world's most renowned and respected playboy. His job is picking up and seducing classy young women globally for the gentleman conoseiur who realizes that there is more to life than just accumulating money and the same old same old boring wife. You can email him at loverboybachelor@yahoo.com or visit http://bachelortours.blogspot.com and http:www.msnusers.com/BachelorDreamTours

Arthritis Pain Relief : Questions To Ask Your Healthcare Pro

Copyright 2005 Priya Shah

A great place to begin taking charge of you arthritis pain relief and prevention planning is by making an appointment with your healthcare provider and finding out more about your condition and treatment options.

Make sure to jot down questions ahead of time, and take them along in your journal or notebook, armed with a pencil to fill in his or her replies.

Some questions to begin with may be centered around these:

1. Do I have a form of arthritis? If not, what is wrong & what do I do next?

2. If so, which type is it? And what can I expect short-term and long-term?

3. What pain relief treatments are available? Which have side affects & what are they?

4. What self-care solutions do you advise?

5. Are there any limitations I should know about; i.e. special dietary issues, special activities to avoid, any OTC meds to NOT mix, etc.?

6. What resources do you have to help with my diet and exercise planning?

7. What other arthritic and other health resources do you have for my family and me?

When you take in your questions, also take in a description of your symptoms so that your doctor can help better understand your situation and health.

Make sure to note:

- Where you have pain (same joint both limbs?)

- When you feel pain - with certain activities, in the morning, when it rains, etc.

- How long you have had the pain

- If the pain increases or decreases, comes and goes, etc.

- The type & intensity level of pain - stabbing, dull, cramping, stiffness - and low, mild or high pain

- Note any limitations - can't bend over too far without pain, can't get out of car, etc.

- Share any family history of arthritis

- Tell about any OTC or prescription medications or other treatments you currently take or use.

- Discuss any special diet you are on and exercise programs

So try the different options available for arthritis pain relief and prevention.

Give your joints a break as soon as possible from any excess weight they're hauling around, even if it's the weight of excess stress.

Lighten up and make pain relief and prevention care part of your normal, everyday routine.

For a comprehensive report on arthritis, visit Arthritis Remedies
http://www.arthritisremedies.org

About the Author

Priya Shah is the editor of The Glutathione Report and Health Naturale. This article may be reprinted as long as the resource box is left intact and all links are hyperlinked.

Asthma: Exercise for Life!

It is estimated that 17 million people in America have asthma, with 5 million being under the age of 18. Asthma, which is Greek for o pant, is a chronic lung disease that triggers episodes of coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath which is caused by an inflammation of the lungs that result in the airways to narrow. It can take place at any age, and appears to have a genetic link. Although its symptoms are controllable, it is not thought to be curable.

Triggers for asthma can vary from one person to the other and may include allergens (dust, smoke, molds, pollens, and animal dander), chemical agents (cleaning products, perfumes, etc.), emotional stress and exercise. The best way to halt asthma attacks is to prevent them in the first place. Simple steps include controlling and managing house dust mites, animal related allergens, tobacco smoke, cockroach allergen, mold and other fungal spores and pollens, smoke from wood burning stoves, colds and viral respiratory infection, and physical activity or exercise induced asthma (EIA).

It was once thought that physical activity should be discouraged if you had asthma, but today this is not the case. With the appropriate precautions, exercise is not only considered safe, but it is frequently promoted as part of a sound respiratory therapeutic program. There are many ways to help avoid exercise induced asthma. If you have asthma, check with your doctor before you begin an exercise program and get a complete physical with a review of your current medicine therapy.

Some guidelines:

• Warm up with 10 minutes or so of low intensity walking and gentle stretching and before your workout.
  

• Avoid exercising in cold, dry air or in areas where air pollution or allergens are high. If you must exercise in a cold environment use a scarf or face mask to trap the warm moist air and prevent cold dry air from penetrating deep into your lungs.
  

• After exercise, be sure to include a 10 to 15 minute cool down period.
  

• Asthma attacks place significant stress on the body. Fatigue is common, making it even more difficult to breath. This is why a gradual progression with exercise is important. Developing cardiorespiratory fitness will make you feel less fatigued and will help lung function.
  

• Different types of exercise may effect symptoms of asthma. For example, outdoor running is often worse than indoor running on a treadmill. To improve cardiorespiratory fitness, begin with 20 (or less) of low intensity aerobic activity 3 times per week, eventually building to five. Exercise in 10 minute intervals with a short rest in between. Use a cross training method applying different exercise modalities (i.e. treadmill, bike, rower). Swimming rarely causes EIA due to the warm moist air (however swimming in chlorinated pools may be a trigger for some).
  

• Exercise intensity is also related to EIA and should be kept at a moderate level. You should be able to talk in short sentences throughout your workout.
  

• Long duration exercise causes more exercise induced asthma then shorter bouts. Sports that promote stop and go activities such as tennis, volleyball & resistance training may cause less EIA in some individuals.
  

• Keep your exercise up beat by making the most of your workouts, and avoid becoming bored or stressed, pick activities that you enjoy and can do.
  

• If a medication is prescribed you can use it before exercise and monitor peak air flow with a peak flow meter. Your inhaler can be used during exercise also if symptoms arise. Talk to your doctor about how to use your inhaler with exercise. If notwithstanding your efforts, symptoms develop and persist, stop the activity and inform your doctor. Your doctor may recommend simple changes in medication that make the difference.
  

• Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercise. Dehydration causes airways in the lungs to constrict, and makes breathing more difficult. Studies have shown that this is true even if the individual is not exercising. Thirst is a poor indicator of when to rehydrate, by the time you sense thirst your body is already lacking essential fluids.
  

• Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea or sodas; these are diuretics, which dehydrate you even further.
  

• Exercise-related breathing problems also occur in individuals who have not been diagnosed with asthma. People with allergies may experience many of the same symptoms, as exercise causes increased oxygen demand, breathing rate, and cooling and drying of the airways.
  

Although right now there is no cure for asthma, it can be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle management. Controlling symptoms may include using an inhaler or other medicine, as well as identifying and avoiding factors that may trigger an episode. Educating yourself as much as you can about asthma and your response to exercise gives you improved control and a greater chance of living an active life.

About The Author

Scott is an exercise physiologist and has worked in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation for many years. He has also managed large fitness centers and is past director of the Flushing YMCA in New York City. He is currently a Wellness Consultant with American LifeWay Wellness.

Website: http://www.americanlifeway.org/

slarson@americanlifeway.org

Are You Liable For Your Own Actions?

Several interesting things caught my eyes this week, all pretty much along the same theme. It seems that these days no one takes responsibility for their own actions. People always have an excuse and so quickly they pass the buck.

I read an article just recently, where a man was accused of internet luring; his plea was that he was set up by the police. However he took the bate, knowing the girl was 14. He then claimed she looked older. However he very well knew she wasn't.

After a recent situation took place, my mind got working in over time. I thought to myself that people really are funny. Why is that people don't want to take responsibility for their own actions? It appears that we no longer own our actions. Owning your action involves taking personal responsibility for what you do. Why it is when something goes wrong people need some place to lay the blame? Part of being a mature responsible adult is to know that when you make a decision in life that you are responsible for the outcome; not someone else.

Let's look at the following examples.

A married man goes out and has an affair on his wife. He blames the wife for not satisfying his needs in bed. Did he ever justify that maybe he has the problem.

Another look would be your electricity gets turned off because you didn't pay it. Do you blame the mail man for not bringing the bill? Do you blame the company because you didn't receive the bill? You knew the bill was due. You pay it every month don't you? It comes down to responsibility.

You join a website and the administrator bans you for breaking the terms of service. You blame the administrator? Why? You knew the rules of the website and had you not known the rules you should have prepared yourself better by reading them before joining. Everyone wants to lay blame on someone now days.

Your daughter gets pregnant at 15. Let me guess you blame Britney spears for influencing her to dress sexy. Yet it was you as a parent who purchased the clothes and allowed her to wear them.

Your son gets suspended from school for fighting, drinking and drugs. You don't take responsibility as the parent. You blame the child. Well doesn't family values start at home? It is the rules that you set down that count. Your responsibility comes that you as a parent have control over your child.

When do we start taking responsibilities for our lives? We all have a choice, we all have a responsibility to pay our bills, go to work, follow the rules and bring up our family. It is really unfortunate that we seem to be raising a generation of children that don't take responsibility for their actions either. They blame their friends, they blame their teachers, they blame everyone around them but themselves.

Also when people feel hard done by, they just can't seem to let go of it; get over it and move on with their lives. When do we learn as adults to be responsible for our own actions? When do we start living with the consequences of our decisions? Let go of blaming and being a victim. It serves no one. It sure doesn't help you any. How happy has not excepting responsibility for your actions made you? It is time to admit your mistakes and not blame someone out. Responsibility means that other people can depend on you. By being a responsible adult you accept credit when you do the right thing and accept correction when someone tells you that you have made a wrong choice in your life.

I think it is time each of us assumed responsibility in life by being liable for our actions and taking ownership of them. Please for goodness sake, stop making excuses for your life. When you have done wrong, admit to your mistakes and move on. We're adults here and we want to be treated as such. Of course this is until it's not in our favor and then we want to blame someone else, anyone but ourselves.

About the Author

Rose
DesRochers is a published author, web columnist and founder of Today's Woman
http://www.todays-woman.net
; a supportive online
community for men and women over 18. Their goal is to help writers succeed in
the writing industry.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome And Depression Are Not The Same Thi

You may have noticed that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome /M.E. /Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome is a very misunderstood illness...

...and this is perhaps why there are so many myths about it.

Perhaps the most common myth about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is that it is effectively a mental condition, and another name for depression.

But these two conditions are very different!

And when you label a condition incorrectly it can cause no end of problems when trying to diagnose and treat it. So it's extremely important to make the distinction between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome /M.E. /Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome and depression - because they are completely different illnesses.

Depression can be a **symptom** of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but there are many Chronic Fatigue Syndrome sufferers out there who do **not** suffer from depression at all.

I, for example, used to suffer from depression when I was first diagnosed with Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/M.E.), but now I (thankfully) don't have depression anymore.

--------SIDE NOTE--------

My recovery from depression (whilst I had PVFS) was down to having psychotherapy. And I can safely say that it's THE BEST thing I've ever done.

If you're depressed, then I urgently recommend that you try a talking therapy of some sort.

I'd personally describe the whole process of going through psychotherapy as eading a fascinating book - where the topic is on 'yourself'.

To find out what it's like to go through psychotherapy /counselling, visit:

http://www.sleepydust.net/psychotherapy

If you're housebound, or just want to conserve your energy and don't want to travel to see a therapist, then why not try online counselling?

There are services out there that can give you counselling sessions via telephone, via email, or via 'Instant Messaging' (real-time chat sessions on your computer, where you type instead of talk).

--------SIDE NOTE--------

There are other differences between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome /Fibromyalgia and depression...

Research has shown that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome sufferers have an abnormality in their 'deep sleep' brainwave patterns. But, depression sufferers do not have this abnormality!

And in a recent study by scientists at the University of Alberta, it was found that there were significant differences in skin temperature and electrical activity in the skin, which sets Chronic Fatigue Syndrome sufferers apart from depression sufferers (Pazderka-Robinson, H. Int. Jrnl. Of Psychophysiology Aug 2004).

What's more, depression sufferers tend to feel tired **all** the time, whereas Chronic Fatigue Syndrome sufferers' exhaustion **increases** notably after mental or physical exertion.

There are also symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome that are not shared by depression sufferers. Nasty flu-like symptoms, headaches, painful muscles and joints, Restless Legs Syndrome, and an increase in colds and viruses, are all just a few symptoms that can play a part in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

There you go - just a few of the differences between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and depression! So the next time someone mistakes your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ M.E. /Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome /Fibromyalgia for depression - you can set them right!

Copyright, Claire Williams, 2004. All Rights Reserved.

** Reprinting of the article above is welcome! **

The article above may be freely reproduced provided that:

(1) you include the following resource box; and (2) you only mail to a 100% opt-in list.

Here's the resource box to use if reprinting the article above:

Claire Williams is editor of sleepydust.net and has suffered from Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome since 1995.

She created 'sleepydust.net' to help Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia sufferers to deal with the condition - from handling their money worries, to recovering from their illness....

http://www.sleepydust.net

To subscribe to the newsletter in which this article was published, please go to:

http://www.sleepydust.net/ezine

About The Author

Copyright, Claire Williams, 2004. All Rights Reserved. Sleepydust.net - Helping You To Deal With Post Viral & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, M.E. & Fibro.

To subscribe to the ezine in which this article was published, go to:

http://www.sleepydust.net/ezine

Aspire to Be

Aspire To Be
by Lady Camelot

Many individuals believe that they have to live up to another family member or idol. Some are even envious of famous icons and want to look, act, think and be like the stars of the big screen. People become so obcessed that, in their quest of perfection, they lose sight of who they are themselves. One of the most peculiar idiologies of people is that they honestly believe that they can literally ransform themselves into other persons.

In the eternal journey of life, human beings are almost comical in a bizarre kind of way. Television ads tell us that we eed certain products and services to make us feel better, look better and think better. Other sociological commercialization is exhibited by actors and actresses -- as they all seemingly have an incredible physical appearance, coupled with extreme self-confidence. But here's the bottom line: not all people are perfect. Not all actors and actresses have super bodies. Not all individuals have perfect complexions, and gorgeous hair. So what do we do? We improvise -- and then we compromise.

We improvise with products, services, clothing, makeup, and the like. We compromise ourselves, though, because we are no longer rue to our natural form. Persons who feel they must actively change themselves to appear like others, is moreover a matter of self-esteem -- or lack thereof.

The most proficient and successful goal of life is to Aspire to be YOU. Take a long look at yourself in the mirror. Ask yourself the following questions:
What do YOU want to do?
How do YOU wish others to see you?
What defines me?
Am I confident?
Am I happy?
What can I do to be happier?
What are my goals?
What are my dreams and aspirations?
Do I 'need' to transform myself? And most importantly,
Do I know where I'm going in life?

There are no paradoxes in aspiring to be you. When you aspire to be you, one doesn't need to comparison shop for personalities. One merely has to look within to find his/her unique meaning in life and how s/he emits himself or herself in the community. When you aspire to be you, you don't have to be superman or woman. You only have to be you -- in mind, body and spirit. Nature's gift to mankind, is not how you define yourself by becoming someone else -- rather, how you present yourself to you. Aspire to be yourself, and the rest of life's voyage will be smooth sailing.

(c) LadyCamelot 2003

About the Author

LadyCamelot currently serves as the Public Relations' Director for Holistic Junction - Your Pathway to Discovery - A community of people interested in all things holistic. Here, you will find what you need; share what you know; discuss what you're not sure about. Create your own web site, participate in online forums (over 80 categories), peruse the Business Directory, publish your original articles, opinions, artwork, and so much more.

Ask Yourself What's In It For WE?

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. - Henry Ford

Individual commitment to a group effort, that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work. - Vince Lombardi



What's in it for WE? is a question we ask ourselves. It is not a question we ask of other people. It reflects a way of thinking that affects nearly all of our relationships and interactions with other people. In this article, I will briefly address three points that illustrate the importance of What's in it for WE? thinking to leadership, teamwork, and collaboration.

1) Effective collaboration is one of the keys to your business/financial success.

I propose that few great things come from the efforts of only one person. Consider these great collaborations from the world of entertainment:

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers

Elton John and Bernie Taupin

Paul McCartney and John Lennon

Bud Abbot and Lou Costello.

How about these collaborations from the world of exploration:

Capt Meriwether Lewis and William Clark

Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.

In business we can look to:

Bill Gates and Paul Allen

David Abercrombie and Ezra Fitch

James Smith McDonnell and Donald Wills Douglas

William Proctor and James Gamble

Richard Warren Sears and Alvah Curtis Roebuck.

Which of these people would have achieved the same level of success had they attempted to go it alone? I think few of them would have been as successful.

2) How you think determines how others react to you.

People know how you are thinking about them because your thinking impacts your word choice, your tone, and your body language. The better you get at focusing your thoughts on mutual benefit, the more your words, tone and body language will reflect that thinking. As your external behaviors reflect more What's in it for WE? thinking, people will be more receptive to working collaboratively with you.

3) If you ask the wrong question, you'll get the wrong answer.

This statement is the primary thought behind this article. I have heard this statement, or some variation of it, applied to sales training, conflict resolution, and communication training. In QBQ!: The Question Behind The Question, John Miller discusses this statement as it applies to personal accountability. I hope you will apply it to your thinking regarding all of your interactions with other people.

There are two basic types of questions you can ask yourself when you work with others. You can ask yourself What's in it for ME? questions or What's in it for WE? questions.

What's in it for ME? questions focus on the benefit to you alone. They sound like:

How can I get them to do business with me?

How can I get people to refer other people to me?

How can I sell them my product or service?

Why don't they understand me?

Why don't they listen to me?

What's wrong with them?

How can I get my employees to do what I want them to do?

How can I get them to work harder?

Why don't they get more done?

Why aren't they helping me?

What's in it for WE? questions focus on mutual benefit. They sound like:

How can I add value to this relationship?

What can I do to help this person?

Who do I know that can help this person?

What can we do together that we can't do separately?

How do we complement each other?

How can I communicate my ideas more clearly?

How do I make myself the kind of person that people want to follow?

As I said in the opening paragraph, What's in it for WE? is a question we ask ourselves that reflects a way of thinking about other people and our relationships with them. Learn to ask What's in it for WE? questions, and you will demonstrate What's in it for WE? behaviors. When you demonstrate What's in it for WE? behaviors, you will form mutually beneficial, collaborative relationships. These relationships will then form the foundation for your success.

Remember to ask yourself - What's in it for WE?

Copyright 2005, Guy Harris

About the Author

Guy Harris is the Chief Relationship Officer with Principle Driven Consulting. He helps entrepreneurs, business managers, and other organizational leaders build trust, reduce conflict, and improve team performance. http://www.principledriven.com
Guy co-authored The Behavior Bucks System TM to help parents. http://www.behaviorbucks.com