Problem with procrastination?

Do you put off for later what you can do today?  Do your friends know that you will always be late? Do you always find yourself just making it on the last day? Then you have a problem with procrastination.  It is like a virus and it affects millions of people. Procrastination is the biggest reason for loss of productivity and late output in business. It has caused many businesses to fail. It can bring havoc in your family and cause the loss of trust between members of your family. Why, because you are not dependable.
If you are one of these people and you realize that you have a problem with procrastination, then it is time to make a change. Here are a few tips to help you overcome this dilemma and become a more productive and reliable person.

For many people, putting off until later is more habit than desire. It can be hard to get into a groove where starting your tasks in a timely fashion is a priority if the consequences for being late are things that are just not that important to you.

1. Set schedules –

It is important to make a list with the times of activities you need to accomplish each day. This will help you manage your time and resources. One of the problems with procrastination in people is they put things off because they feel they have so much time left.  A journal, organizer, or calendar of events will help you plan and schedule your task so that you can start them promptly and finish them on time and with more efficiency in your day.

2. Save the break time – 

Many put their work off for later thinking they can play now and work later. Play and fun are enjoyed best when you know that all the hard part is done.When it comes to family putting off and slacking up can lead to forgetting. Family depends on each other for support and that can only come from knowing you are there for each other.

3. Never take for granted your responsibilities –

The problem with procrastination is that when it sets in people underestimate the resources, difficulty, and time needed to accomplish a particular task. They will bring down the importance of the task by saying, “Don’t sweat the small stuff”, but the small stuff often turns into big stuff that causes big problems. The problem is, no matter how trivial the task, it still takes time and thought to accomplish. If you underestimate a task, you will most likely set too little time to do it and schedule it too close to its deadline. The problem with procrastination is it can sometimes lead to failure.

4. Don't make excuses for procrastinating –

Putting off today what needs to be done today can be harmful. Check off your list of what needs to be accomplished throughout the day. This will help you to see that a job accomplished now means more time for relaxation later. Today can be the day that you start defeating all of your problems with procrastination and start being the complete you.

James Smart

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Giving Your All

 The act of giving your all to those in need can likewise cultivate the best emotional satisfaction in your heart. Whatever form of help you extend, be it service or something of value, you will undoubtedly receive something better in return.

Is there anything better than a simple “thank you” that is meant with sincerity? Is there anything better than an appreciation that makes you feel needed and appreciated? Is there anything better than to see smiles on other people’s faces for having made them feel equally appreciated and cared for?

If your physical resources are limited, you can put your talent or creativity to work. Your urge to help those in need should inspire you to find ways to make your intentions come to be. You can come up with ideas to generate more money through fund raising programs. You may also give more of your time doing volunteer service.

There Is No Excuse

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In the process of giving your all, your cooperation, attention, and entire being need not be strained. You may get physically exhausted but emotionally, you will be charged with a heart full of love. You will feel revitalized and invigorated. You will feel like a human being again. You will become more enthusiastic. You will become one with all. All these occur because you are giving your all.

When you set your mind to work for a good cause, you are actually tapping and activating the power that heals. In every corner of your physical, psychological, and emotional being you will come alive again. Your emotions will run high in a positive manner. You will feel sentimentally content with what you are doing. You will feel as though you’re the most fulfilled and complete person on earth. Not because you’re being paid with money, but because you’re being paid with your own sense of fulfillment.

Oh yes………….in the act of give your all, you also receive all.... in inner peace and fulfillment.

Every day can be a special day when you realize you're not the only one with problems.

WatchThis video from Sharon Wright:

                        

There is much to gain from helping those in need. The satisfaction and joy of really being a member of the family of earth. Giving your all is the fulfillment of life.

James Smart

Find what you want in life

A lot of us don’t find what we want in life until it’s time to die – and that’s a crime.

A lot of people use the best years of their lives watching television or doing things they despise. An author described humankind by saying, “Most people die at twenty and are buried at eighty.” Are you currently among the list of sitting zombies?

Can you find what you want in life?

Are You Letting Time Pass You By?

A number of people struggle in answering this question. When asked the things they want or what their goals in life are, some are unsure. They fluctuate in their decision, scarcely giving any consideration for what they want in life. Individuals when not having definite goals are letting time pass them by. Are you currently one of these people?

If you are undecided about what you desire out of life, do not worry you can find your way. There are many ways of discovering your purpose in life.

To uncover what you long for in life, try gazing deep within your heart. Often individuals are ruled by logic. People today live by what they think they must be or by what other people want them to be. The discovery process is the perfect time to listen to your heart. Everything that your heart desires arises from the whispers from your inner self. Your inner self is the true you.

Sometime the Road is Rough

Listen to your heart in order to take heed to your deep innerself. What your heart speaks usually feels right. What your heart desires is what you in most cases love to do which in turn symbolizes your passion. Everything done with passion will enable any undertaking to generally be attained a lot easier. You pour out your very best and experience no pressure or resistance when passion is your driving force.

But, the Road Gets Clearer

You are likely to totally enjoy doing things that are your passion. Setbacks, issues, and obstacles will certainly make it difficult at times, but should not deter you from pursuing your goals. Naturally, there could be obstacles that may prevent you from reaching your primary goal, but your heart’s desire will find ways to overcome these barriers so that you may in the end get what you long for in life. Keep in mind this: the universe supports people who are seeking their passion and people who are seeking their fortune.

This does not mean that you don’t utilize your mind. One is born with both the mind and heart. Your responsibility is to live your best possible life and be in balance in your mind and heart. 

Sometimes our mind and heart are not in agreement with each other. Often, in affairs of the heart, we are many times head over heels in love with the wrong person. Don't just fall madly in love blindly. Take the time to consider the person you are involved with before it gets to the level of romance. Realize that perfection can't be found in anyone. But still, seek enjoyment and mutual concerns in compatibility matters.

 Remember, no one can complete you but you. Don't put this kind of pressure on someone thinking they can complete you by fulfilling your life. They will be able to supplement your life however you must look for true fulfillment in your self.

Once again let me stress the mind and the heart need to be in harmony and agreement. Together they will enable you to find what you want in life.

James Smart

Stress and depression management

  The term stress has been so commonly used that people tend not to take it seriously anymore. It is an enormously serious condition that could hinder one’s daily living. There is a tremendous need for those suffering from these cripplers learn stress and depression management. Stress is most challenging. It may debilitate one’s normal activities, making even a lot of mundane tasks such as getting up from bed or eating morning breakfast seemingly difficult. 

The Start of A Bad Day

It truly is sad to believe that a lot of depressed persons are not aided on account of the high costs of assistance.  Managing stress remains achievable without the need for professional guidance for some. If one knows ways to defeat depression and stress management it can be done.

 Here are a couple of things that can help people manage stress. Please note, I am note a doctor by no means and, that professional therapy remains very crucial with acute stress related depression. These steps are just ideas for lightening the condition.

• STAYING ACTIVE- is one method to apply stress management and take one’s mind off stress and depression. Often, activities help transfer people from whatever it is that is causing their stress and it also helps channel unspent energies that develop when one is depressed. Keeping active also releases endorphins – natural mood enhancers that somehow cheer people up.

• GET REST- Being stressed can be very exhausting, so it is essential to regain strength and energy if one is to deal with stress. Relaxation techniques should help one be more attuned to the self and be more relaxed. When resting, stress should really be kept away from the bedroom to make sure lots of rest can be achieved.

• EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS - Stress usually results from covered up emotions. People who are grieving may well be vulnerable to stress depression if they keep their emotions to themselves. A lot of people avoid crying because they think doing so may be a sign of weakness. Yes, us men are caught up in that macho trap. Yet, it is important to release emotions for us men also. We just do it in private. When expressing emotions, it is important to avoid catharsis – venting up one’s anger by doing something violent like boxing, smashing things, and the like. Catharsis fails to release one’s emotion, specifically rage. Rather, it makes a person apply violence as an expression of emotion and therefore can be very unhealthy.

• HANG WITH FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES - Depressed individuals need support very much. Other people can distract one from stresses. People can also remind a despondent individual that there can be more to life, and it is worth living even if it is simply on account of the company of wonderful people.

• BELIEVE IN YOURSELF - A lot of people get depressed simply because they put themselves down. It is essential to assure your own self and develop a sense of self-worth. Do something that will help you be content. Prioritizing can help you to realize that your own life is imperative and can be valued. Being kind to yourself is definitely one of the most essential steps to getting away from a depressive state.

Little by Little

Stress and depression management is possible and involves taking charge of your life. When you are working on depression nonetheless, it is vital not to rush. Frustration does not go away overnight; it takes time to get back on one’s feet. Little by little, one can get out of depression and have a normal life once more.

Manage your time and your life in a positive system of self motivation.

James Smart

Life is about... choices and decisions

 Life is like a road full of choices and decisions. There are long and short roads; soft and rocky roads; Crooked trails and straight lines. In our life many roads come our way during the journey through life. There are trails that lead to a life of Holiness, marriage and religious vocation. There are also roads which lead to fame and fortune on one , or isolation and poverty, on another. There are roads to happiness as there are paths to victory and joy and roads leading to defeat and disappointment.

It May Not Be Easy

 Like any road, there are corners, deviations and crossroads of life. It is perhaps the most difficult to understand when we come to a crossroad. With four ways to choose and limited knowledge on where to go or what path to take how do you decide?  What is the guarantee that we have chosen the right path on the road?  You could take any road, or just stay where you are: at a crossroads?

In our choices and decisions, there are no guarantees. How do we know if we are doing right or making the right decision? This is one of the most important things that you must perform in life.

Even if you choose to do the right thing all the time it may not always lead to happiness.  Loving someone with all your heart does not guarantee that it will be returned. Gaining fame and fortune doesn't guarantee happiness.  There are too many possible outcomes that you really can't control.

The only thing you have power over is the choices and decisions you make on how to act and react.

There May Be Peaceful Waters

 It is only after having made a decision and reflected on it  can you say, OK  that was right.. If the consequences or results are good then you have decided correctly. Otherwise, your decision was wrong. Taking risks is what life is about ...choices and decisions.

Life offers no guarantee and you never know if the decisions you make will be an error until you do it. you might as well run the risk and decide. It is better than being held in limbo. While it is true that you may be wrong it may turn out to be an opportunity for an adventure. Everything is a matter of perspective. You have the possibility to choose between being a traveller lost or accidental tourist in life.  Be careful not to make decisions without thought of consequences. Taking risks is not to be careless and stupid.

Here are some tips that can help you choose the best option at the crossroads of life:

 1) Obtain as much information  as possible about your situation.

Unable to find the confidence to decide when you know so little. Like any journalist, ask the 5 w 's: who, what, when, where and why:

 "Who" will be affected besides myself by my decision.

 "What" are the possible outcomes of my decision both positive and negative.

 "When" do I need to make this decision.

 "Where" will this decision possibly lead me.

 And most important "Why" do I need to make this decision.

2) Identify and create options.

Take the time to address your options. Sometimes the options are few, but sometimes they are many. How do you handle a situation with no options?  Create your own.  Put your mind to work.  Whether it is simple or complicated, entertain all ideas. Don't shoot anything down. Sometimes the most outrageous idea might be to the right one in the end. You can ask a friend to help you identify your options and make even more options if you encounter any difficulties, but make sure that it's your decision in the end.

3) Weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Evaluate each option by looking at the advantages and disadvantages offered by it. In this way, you'll have more information about the consequences of each option.

4) Have confidence in yourself and act.

Now that you have evaluated your options, it is time to trust yourself. Remember,  life is about choices and decisions and there are no guarantees.  Believe that the choices and decisions that you are making are the best options that you have at this time.

Now that you've made a decision, be ready to face the consequences: good and bad.  But the important thing is that you chose to live "your" life, rather than be a passive bystander or a puppet. If this is the right decision or not, only time will tell. But do not regret whatever the outcome. Instead, learn from it and remember that you always have the ability to make better choices and decisions in the future.

Live your life to the fullest,

James Smart

The key to a better life, time management

Some people see time management as a list of rules that include scheduling appointments, objectives, comprehensive planning, and setting or creating things that make lists and define priorities. These are the fundamentals of time management that should be used to develop efficient personal time management. This knowledge base can be tuned further to include more subtle points of each skill that can give you that extra reserve for the desired results. Personal time management is basically about being focused.

Stay Focused Don't Give Up

There are skills in managing time that are fundamental. These are essential for personal growth such as decision-making capacity, such as emotional intelligence, and critical thinking.

Personal time management involves everything no matter how large, no matter how small.  Any new knowledge acquired, each new council considered, each new skill that develops should be taken into account. To have a balanced life should be the result of key personal time management.

Here are five areas that personal time management will help to improve in the lives of anyone:

 1) Physical-

The physical aspect involves having a healthy body with less stress and fatigue.

 2) Intellectual-

The intellectual aspect consists of continued mental growth and learning.

 3) Social-

The social aspect involves the development of personal or intimate relationships and being an active contributor to society.

 4) Professional-

The planning of ones' career involving school and work.

 5) Emotional/Spiritual

The emotional and spiritual aspect involves feelings and desires. Coupled with a personal quest for the meanings of them.

Prioritize!

A good way to learn time management and improving your personal life is to follow several basic tasks.  One of them is revising objectives and goals from immediate to long term.

Maintain a list that is always accessible to you. Always determine what task is required to achieve your objectives and activities that will help you maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Each of us has what I like to call an up time and a time when we need to slow down.  These are  natural cycles. We need to know when to do difficult tasks and when to put them off.

Learn to say "No" and mean it. Pay attention, even if it is saying the word "No" to your family or friends.

Sticking to the plan and not letting anyone deter you will lead to results and effective time management. Do not delay. Meet and accomplish  immediately the necessary things.

Success Can Be Yours

Have a positive attitude and configure your own success. But... be realistic in your approach to the achievement of your objectives. By the way, yes it is necessary to keep track of your  activities. This will help to put things in their right perspective.

These are the steps that you need to take initially to become a well rounded individual.

Personal time management is the art and science of building a better life. Once you develop your life management skills several options will be opened. These options will provide a wide range of solutions for personal growth.

Go ahead and aim for the stars.....just remember to map the way before you get started.

May your life be "On Time",

James Smart

Learn to Relax

Stress is the curse of living in modern times. Everyone suffers from stress.  Stress causes many to suffer heavy losses in our bodies, our minds and emotions.

Feeling stressed, worn out by fatigue or just simply having a miserable day, what is better than to relax.

Watching television can be a form of relaxation for some, but it is not a method recommended by experts. When watching TV we are bombarded with ads, Classifieds, images and sounds. So how do we relax?

In recent studies, experts have determined that heart disease is linked to anger and irritability is linked to mental stress. Too much stress causes ischemia that may cause or lead to a heart attack. Relaxation becomes more important in light of this problem. Manage your anger and your attitude is important for your health and relaxation can help you manage stress.

A form of relaxaion is Transcendental Meditation. Recent studies have also shown that this method could reduce artery blockage, which is a major cause of heart attack and stroke. People practice transcendental meditation by repeating statements soothing sounds and meditate, to achieve total relaxation.

Another study on another method of relaxation, Acupuncture, appears to reduce high blood pressure from various bodily functions to release chemicals of brain known as endorphins. Endorphin helps relax the muscles, easing panic, decrease pain and reduce anxiety.

Yoga is also another method of relaxation and may also have similar effects like acupuncture. In another study, participants were subjected to several minutes of mental tension. Then have undergone various relaxation techniques, such as listening to the sounds of nature or of classical music.

Breathing is one of the easiest methods to relax. Breathing affects our mind, our moods and our body.

There are various breathing techniques that can help reduce stress.

A good way to relax is to get a Massage. For complete relaxation, you should surrender totally to the manipulation and the touch of a professional therapist. There are several types of massages that give different levels of relaxation.

Another method of relaxation is Biofeedback. The usual biofeedback training program includes a 10-hour sessions that often is spaced apart.

Hypnosis is a relaxation technique. It is a good alternative for anyone who thinks that he has no idea of what it feels like to be reassured. There is also a good alternative for people with stress related health problems.

These relaxation techniques are just some of the ways you can reach a relaxed state. Another reason why we need to relax is to lower blood pressure.  In many people relaxing may help reduce the chances of stroke or heart attack.

Relaxation can be of good use once a technique is regularly integrated into your lifestyle. Choose a technique that you think you can do on a regular basis.

James Smart

Are You Ready For SUCCESS?

  Everything that happens to us happens on purpose. Sometimes, one thing leads to another. Instead of locking yourself up in your cage of fears and crying over past heartaches, embarrassment and failures, treat them as your teachers and they will become your tools in both self improvement and success.  
*Stop thinking and feeling as if you’re a failure, because you’re not. How can others accept you if you can not except you AND if you can not..... DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.

*When you see the, "beautiful ones" on TV, think more on self improvement, not self pitying. Self acceptance is not just about having nice slender legs, or great abs. Concentrate on inner beauty. Inner beauty is lasting. After the body has started to fatten your mind will be your safe zone.

*When people feel so down and low about themselves, help them move up. Don’t go down with them. They’ll pull you down further and both of you will end up feeling inferior.

*The world is a large room for lessons, not mistakes. Don’t feel stupid and doomed forever just because you failed on a science quiz. There’s always a next time. Make room for self improvement.

* Recently someone very close to me admitted to their fear of rejection and failure. Because of their fear they wanted to stay in the background. Failure is the only thing that will lead to success. Learning how to ride a bike comes from many falls but, once you learn how you never forget.
 
* Set meaningful and achievable goals. Self improvement doesn’t turn you into someone else. It results in an improved and better YOU.

*Little things are BIG to other people. Sometimes, we don’t realize that the little things that we do impact others.  Saying “hi” or “hello” or greeting someone with“good day” or telling Mr. Smith something like “I like your tie!” are simple things: But, they mean so much to other people. When we’re being appreciative about beautiful things around us and other people, we also become beautiful to them.
 

  Where Do We Start?

Self improvement results in inner stability, personal development and success. Self improvement is a one day at a time process. It leads to self confidence, self appreciation and self esteem.

 Changes do not happen over one night but the valuable life changes that we gain open our doors for self improvement and increase our chances to head down the road of success. 

May your life grow in its' success,

James Smart 

What Makes You Tick?

The motto for the Army is, "Be All You Can Be". Do you find yourself somewhat content with your life just the way things are?  Of course it's hard to think of anything else when life just keeps beating you down. So, let me ask you...what makes you tick?

For me, I aspire for something deeper and more meaningful. We are all drowning in debt and problems. Honestly, it shouldn't  stop us from becoming all we can and ought to be. The aspirations we had as kids should continue to live within us.  Hold on to your dreams.

 They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks… I say the challenge of tomorrow makes today special. In every new day seek to learn something new!

Are You Motivated To Succeed?

Here's 9 Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. What Do I Really Want?


The question of the ages. So many things you want to do with your life and so little time to even go about during the day.


Find something that you are good at and take small steps towards reaching the mark. Diligence is the key.


2. Should I Really Change?


Today's generation has taken another level of redefining 'self', or at least that's what the kids are saying.

Never be afraid to admit that you are wrong and while you are at it do something about it. Make positive changes in your life that will enable you to enjoy life and feel good about yourself.


3. Is There a Bright Side To My Life?


With so much happening around us there seems to be no room for even considering that light at the end of the tunnel. Is there a light anywhere in your life?
 
Carry your own light and let it SHINE..not just for you but for those around you also.

4. Am I Comfortable With What I'm Doing?


There's always the easy way and the right way when it comes to making and carrying out decisions. It doesn't take a genius to see yourself as someone unique. Be unique and stand out for what is right in the crowd. Don't just follow stupidity and ignorance.



5. Have I Done Enough For Myself?


Have you, or is there something more you want to do? Discontentment in every aspect can be dangerous in large doses, but in small amounts you'll be able to see and do stuff you could never imagine doing.


Be who you are and stand for who you are.


6. Am I Happy Where I Am Today?


It's an unfair question if you do not think you can do anything about it. Never be satisfied with the now....always seek to expand and broaden your life.


7. Am I Appealing To The Opposite Sex?


Do we ever stop asking this question no matter how old we get. Do I still look good to you! Even though I am old and gray hey..I can still play. Let your inside out and let your life experience real love.

8. What Motivates Me?


What motivates you? That is the million dollar question. So what are you going to do about it?


9. What Really Makes You Tick?

What makes you sit up; get up; jump up and say... YEAH BABY!

You can be just about anything you want to be.
That special something that makes you happy can only be found inside of you.... because only you know what- makes- you- tick! 

James

Start Taking Control

 Positive thinking and self motivation can help turn challenges into victories. Turn even the frustration of defeat and loss into a builder of inner strength. Start taking control of your life, enjoy life.

Practicing positive thinking allows people to focus on their strengths and accomplishments, which increases happiness and motivation. This, allows you to spend more time making progress, and less time feeling down and out. 

Take the time to shift into more positive thinking patterns by following these 10 steps:

1. Take Good Care of Yourself :

Eat well, exercising, and get enough rest.

2. Be Grateful For the Good Things in Your Life :

Constantly remind yourself of the things that are right in your life. 

Stop and appreciate the good things.

3. Look for Proof Instead of Making Assumptions :                                           
What we fear is often not reality. Don't fear that a friend or family member's bad mood is due to something you did, or that your co-workers are secretly gossiping about you when you turn your back.  Don't waste time worrying that you did something wrong unless you have proof that there is something to worry about.

4. DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF!

5. Turn From Negative Thoughts :
Your thoughts can only hold power over you if you let them. If you notice yourself  having a negative thought, drop it, don't follow it.

6. Show Affirmations of Love by Touch and Words :
Positive physical contact with friends, loved ones, and even pets, is good for the soul.

7. Get Social :
Seek social activity and you decrease loneliness. Surround yourself with healthy, happy people, and their positive energy will affect you in a positive way!
 

8. Volunteer and Help Someone Else :
Everyone feels good after helping someone that is in need. You can volunteer your time, your money, or your resources.
 

9. Do Something Different :

Go for a walk or sit outside.  Call a friend, pick up a book, or turn on some music. Take a trip!

Get away from the ordinary and do something crazy.......just don't hurt yourself or someone else.

10. Start Taking Control :

I mean it is your life......find a way to enjoy it

James Smart