Thursday, March 31, 2011

April Showers Bring May Flowers

In just a few days, I will be 38 years old.  My first instinct was to reflect on all my failures and condemn myself for them.  The reason for that impulse is because many of our negative experiences have a stronger emotional impact than our positive ones.  Unless the positive experience was life changing or extremely intense, it's not etched in our memory like our negative ones.  It's our emotional experiences that are planted deep in our subconscious, and thus shape our philosophy, self esteem and ultimately our experiences.  If we aren't always aware of this, how do I sometimes catch myself?

I would say it's doing my best to observe my reactions and thought process.  Educating myself is really the first step, like viewing the Jack Canfield video at the end of this blog.  It's important to constantly flood ourselves with positive voices, because of our negative programming.  Another great example is listening to Tony Robbins on youtube.  It helps me reaffirm that negative is normal but just not successful.  Also, I must keep the reasons why I do what I do in my consciousness (e.g. using a vision board).  It helps as a constant reminder for obtaining prosperity and abundance.

Another thing is feeling worthy, which each and everyone of us should feel.  I don't always feel this way.  When I don't, I get a hold of something or someone positive to get myself back on track.  This is critical!  As Jim Rohn once said, "After all, you’ve only got one life, at least on this planet. So why not make it an adventure in achievement? Why not discover what all you can do and what all you can have? Why not discover how many others you can help and in the process how that can help you?" 

One thing that most people do as time passes by is to remain the same.  They get comfortable and say to themselves, it's ok.  I'm very glad I've kept limited association with those that choose this for themselves.  In extreme cases, we should even opt for disassociation.  Condemning themselves, constantly complaining, blaming others and dwelling on all the so-called failures (instead of seeing them as learning experiences toward success) are all some of the symptoms of these people. While there are many reasons why a lifetime of mediocrity holds true for most, a main factor is not feeling worthy enough for success.  In fact, the majority fear it.  It's the oddest thing.

However, as strange as it may be, it's in our benefit to study this phenomenon.  If we understand it in ourselves, we can heal others because we are healing ourselves.  If we make our mission inclusive toward the betterment of others, we can never go wrong.  We can't cheat in this department, no matter how discreetly we try.  The minute we are selfish, we are no longer thinking about ourselves.  What do I mean by that?  Ever heard the term, "What comes around, goes around?".  If we harm others by looking after our own interests, the universe is rigged in a way that makes sure the cost gets paid in full.  The same goes true for including others in our mission and vision, in order to see our goals and dreams to fruition.  Abundance and prosperity is sure to follow.


"You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want."  -Zig Ziglar



Monday, March 21, 2011

Aries Season

Embrace change.  It's the only constant.  I watched a movie that I highly recommend, "Peaceful Warrior".  It's a story about Dan Millman while he was on the Cal gymnastics team.  More than just a sports film, it's a spiritual journey in self discovery.  It also illustrates how to make the most out of every change that comes our way.  I'll probably need to watch it a few more times.  Seeing that couldn't have come at a better time, since I'm starting a new chapter in my life.  I won't ruin the movie, so I attached a trailer at the end of this blog.

The sign Aries symbolizes new beginnings and new changes.  It held true today.  I met up with a powerful friend, Hector Flores.  He gave me suggestions on how to improve my business, and also informed me of exciting changes that definitely work in my favor.  Prayers do get answered!  I was asking for a mentor and now I have one.  I'm so appreciative for his kindness and understanding.  It is true what they say, when the student is ready, the teacher will arrive.  The timing couldn't be more perfect!

As we come to the close of the first quarter of 2011, I reflect on all that I've done.  I am proud that I made a lot of progress in my personal growth, productivity and human relations.  I learned to connect better with the people that I work with by being in the best energy that I can be.  Of course, the best will be different when I'm having a good day vs. a bad one, however, it's now more consistent than ever.

I also learned to ground my emotions better by hanging out with people that bring out the best in me, like Hector Flores and Joe Chui.  Reading and watching youtubes of successful people are also big contributors. We must literally bombard ourselves with positive messages and people, since we have years of negative programming and mind viruses.

Who I will become shall be better than who I am now.  The long and hard journey still lies ahead but I will reach the oasis of financial freedom, that will allow me to fulfill my destiny.  It is our birthright to overflow in giving, prosperity and happiness.

Now with a mentor, I look forward to the upcoming days, weeks and new quarter ahead.  I mustn't stop, because I know there are a lot of people that are counting on me and are going to count on me, as we establish a bigger team.  I'll continue to make a conscious effort to embrace change, for if I do, I will more likely see the good in every situation, even in the face of adversity.  I will attract more opportunities and more great people into the organization, because I will become stronger, work harder and increase my awareness continuously.

Si se puede!

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Staying Green

Happy St. Patrick's Day and welcome to blog #11!

Today was a good and productive day.  The more I understand my purpose, the more I find that even mishaps have their place in the order of my life.  Today reminded of a movie I recently watched called "The Adjustment Bureau".  It's a film about destiny and how what is seemingly an act of free will isn't.  Don't want to ruin the movie for anyone who wants to watch it.  I found it entertaining.  

Anyhow, my phone malfunctions this morning and I had to take it to the Verizon store to get it fixed.  Before I left the house, I decided to grab a couple of copies of  a newspaper in which I have an ad.     Turns out, that the customer service guy, who helped me last year, happened to just arrive.  We had lost touch, in which I claim full responsibility.  The strange thing was I had thought about him the day before!

So as we were talking, he askes what I've been up to.  I told him that I'm a member of the chamber of commerce and still working on my health and wellness project.  It seemed that my subconscious planned for me to grab the paper from my house to show him my ad, which I did.  It instantly gave me credibility.  He mentioned that his girlfriend is looking to increase her cashflow and also looking to lose weight.  We exchanged contact information and will be setting up something soon.

Later that day, I wanted to buy some mouthwash.  The store that came to mind was Stater Bros.  When I arrived, outside the entrance was a little girl scout with her mom selling cookies.  As I was leaving, I approached this young entrepeneur, bought a box of tagalongs and began talking to the mom.  Turns out she's been looking for work and claims she's excellent in sales (after all, she got her daughter doing it, right?). We exchanged contact information, and will be setting up something with her close to the end of the month, when she's back in town.

Of course, I had my fun also.  After all, all work and no play makes Owen a dull boy, right?  So I treated myself to a green Stella and corned beef sliders in celebration of the Irish tradition.  I even wore green today.  Everything seemed to fall into place pleasantly and nearly effortlessly.  All my decisions seemed as if it was a part of a bigger design.  The sun was out, everyone was happy and I wasn't stressed a whole lot, though I got a lot done.

I ended the evening with doing a phone strategy with Nick and how to help him expand to Texas and California.  Actually the evening ends with writing this blog.  No, it ends with checking my facebook, twitter and then making revisions on my blog.  Ok, the work doesn't end, but it's enjoyable because it's part of progression.  There's a purpose rather than a mundane routine of simply paying bills until we die.  I continue to learn no matter if it's a good day or bad.  I'm staying green.  Cheers!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Chapter One

Today, I feel this is a new beginning.  Of course, those that treasure life consider everyday a new start, if not every moment.  However, I must say that this moment, today, is a the first chapter of a brand new saga of my life!  Today marks the first step taken on the road to my true destiny!

So why do I make such a claim?  From the time I woke until now, I stayed on track with my mission, as I do virtually everyday.  So what makes this day different?  Before, I've lived by only one word: Decision. Without it, you CAN NOT be happy...EVER!  I don't care who you are!  I also live by another word: Trust.  Why do I bring this up?  This term is more than just trust in myself and others.  It is to indicate trust in the universe.  As easy as it is to do this, very few people do it.  Why? Perhaps it is their unawareness that it exists or their fear of the unknown.  Or maybe they feel it's "too good to be true".

It's only too good to be true when we don't believe in the forces that are beyond ourselves, that are in reality in the palm of our hands.  What do I mean?  What seems to be "out of our hands" many times is actually within our control 100%.  We attract everything into our lives, even the things we don't want.  Have you heard the saying, "Money is a wonderful servant, but a horrible master"?  This is also true for our universe because we create it with our thoughts, beliefs and actions.  If we are a slave to paying our bills every month with little or no money to spare, then we are not working towards our prosperity that's waiting for us to grab ahold of.  There's a great quote from my friend Hameed, "To predict the future, create it".

So now we get back to the all encompassing question, why do I trust the universe?  It's because everytime I didn't and tried to exert too much control, I was unsuccessful in accomplishing not only my goals, but the goals and dreams of many.  There is a ripple effect upon our every decision, emotion, thought and action.  Today was different.  It was very strange how I just had an epiphany as I was going about my day.  I decided to allow the universe to do its job, while I did mine.  Almost like magic, everything came into place like planned.  I accomplished more today than I ever did.  Situations and circumstances that weren't working out before, worked out.  Amazing!

By releasing our goals to the universe with trust and working hard towards its attainment, we are actually in control.  It's much like driving a vehicle to a destination.  We don't have to need to know everything, like what exactly the car is made of or if the car seat is going to fall through the bottom of the car.  All we have to is drive, and be aware of the car's function (like gas, tire pressure, etc.), as well as the road signs.  Without trust, we become distracted with unnecessary worry and we may end up missing our exit.

There's an ancient folklore about a farmer that wished for harvest prior to "its time".  He was so impatient that he pulled at the crops nearly uprooting them.  He wanted everything to grow faster than it was. Incidently, as a result of the farmer's ignorance and greed, all his crops died because the field lost momentum.   Just remember, we are worthy of greatness.  It's a matter if we harness it or not!  If we don't, we will stay in our comfort zone, and won't work aggressively to design our own life.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

1 + 1 = 1

When we connect with others and increase the number of who we connect with, great things can happen.    Today, I experienced my creativity at work.  Once a month, I host a Taco Tuesday at Casa de Salsa with a social group, some who are my clients.  Now, I know the owners through the chamber of commerce, and have sat down with them to ask for referrals for my business.  Of course, I won't be a pain about it by constantly inquiring.  However, I feel that increasing their business will create more leverage and voice the next time I do ask.  In fact, I did a presentation for someone I met at a chamber event today at lunch at Casa de Salsa.  He is also the person that's doing pest control for the restaurant.  I will be talking with him and his wife over dinner at the same place.  I know that if he gets started with me, he will get results and word will spread in the community, including the owners.

That same evening, I invited the school district and all the principals to Casa de Salsa, since I knew some of them from my participation at Principal for the Day.  I bought the prinicipals and school district members a first round.  At first glance, they may sound like an absurd and senseless move.  For a brief moment, I actually thought that, but I committed myself to the idea anyway.  I have to say, I'm so glad I did.  I now have important people in the community that want to more about what I do.  We will be setting up appointments in the upcoming weeks.  I'm very eager to help all of them and the community at large.

Then like clockwork, the director of the chamber came with his wife and a friend.  I offered to buy them a first round as well.  This gentlemen is perhaps the most well connected person in the area.  He greeted everyone that came and there was a sense of synergy.  It was at that point I realized how extremely connected we all are!  From the owners of the restaurant to the chamber director to the school district members, it was like watching a live puzzle being put together.  I need to make a promise that I will make my way in futher into this network and make a difference so great that I won't have to "sell" my business.  Many from this group will participate and urge others to do so, because of the value I give it.  I can feel it!

I have a strong feeling that the network that I percieve is merely the tip of the iceberg.  Just with one gesture alone, I've created a buzz.  Rest assured that everyone will remember me from tonight and good fortune will come.  I will continue my mission to manifest prosperity, so that I can inspire others to take action on their dreams.  I'm very blessed that I have the opportunity to do something great.  Without it, I will be just an ordinary person, living then dying.  Some don't mind this but I do. Whoever comes on the journey with me, it's necessary that they don't settle for nothing less than what they deserve.  We are all worthy of abundance, as it is our birthright!  All we have to do is go get it! Tomorrow will bring a new adventure and I embrace the day ahead!

Monday, March 14, 2011

Mission: It's Possible

Welcome to blog #8!

There are times when I forget for a moment why I do what I do. Yesterday was a perfect example.  After I wrote last night's blog, I took out my "Why" card and read it.  Today, I was back on track, making phone calls and setting up appointments.  In fact, I got a customer today at a supermarket!  I truly believe that when we stay committed and re-commit when we fall short, good things will happen to us.   What also solidifies our reasons for staying on track are those we commit to that are also committed to us.

I got a call from Nick, one of my friends in New York I work with.  His enthusiasm could be felt over the phone, as he updated about his business activity and progress.  I asked him what was his inspiration. Without a moment's hesitation, he said his family.  We then worked out a strategy for him and plan talk again later this week.  It feels good being a part of designing someone else's success that is tied to our own. We all need causes bigger than ourselves to drive us to great achievement.  When it gets lost, we owe it to our loved ones to rekindle that fire.

Tomorrow will be another busy yet enjoyable day, because I'm working towards balance in my life, in all areas: health, wealth and relationships.  Even with yesterday, I still appreciate those moments. As long as I learn from adversity, my life will always be in progression. That is how we grow.  I look forward to reflecting on all the good I've done near the end of the road.  I appreciate that I'm able to add value to others, and that I have the resources to touch the lives of many, many more.  I want to thank Nick for inspiring me to become more, so that I can have more to give to the world! :)

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Always Do Your Best

The title of this blog is not advice coming from me, but rather one of the Four Agreements.  I must say that book gave me the courage to face my emotional demons and begin the healing process.  Of course, it is far from over, but I can say that I'm spiritually, mentally and emotionally stronger than I've ever been.

Reflecting back on how I used to think and act brings about pain.  It brings about pain because I harmed people around me.  For example, my anger was so out of control sometimes, I would hurt people mentally and physically.  In addition, I would smash wooden chairs and shatter plates all around the house.  Though I'm proud to say I no longer exhibit this type of behavior, the inner anger will surface from time to time.   For that reason, I opt to stay away from people and circumstances, at least as much as possible, that may provoke such feelings to arise.  Instead, I look to hang around positive and encouraging people, which I feel so blessed to have in my life.

Reading the right books and being around the right people gave me the strength to confront my internal issues.  I also was diagnosed with severe clinical depression and was heavily medicated for years.  Though my suicidal thoughts would diminish, so would all my other feelings such as joy, happiness and love.  The process of self-education and the power of association weaned me from my medication.  As the cloud of sedation cleared, I was able to experience life again, this time more empowered.

I bring this up because today at training, there were those who shared similar struggles with depression and thoughts of suicide and how they were able to overcome.  It was truly inspirational as I think of it now, though at moment, I was divided between listening to their stories and sinking into my own self pity.  It seems that sometimes, negative thoughts and feelings appear almost out of nowhere.  This time, I traced it back to something I've been struggling with for years: comparing myself with others.  It appeared that a lot of people were doing better than me, as some were getting recognized for their achievements and feeling really good about it.  At that point, I felt inadequate.

Don't get me wrong, I am happy for people's victories and love being around good people.  So, what I was feeling is not be confused with jealousy.  I had my own personal issue simply at that moment. Normally, I'm not this way.  Logically, other people's success and happiness has nothing to any lack of my own.  Nevertheless, I made a committment to myself that if I ever felt bad, I would introspect and resolve it.  I would do my best.

As I sat in that room, my negativity nearly drained all my energy.  Still, I was determined to stay focused on the training.  Playing that part back in my mind, I realized I have the power to block out positivity.  What I mean is that I was in a place completely surrounded by good energy and good people, yet I felt the opposite.  Of course, usually I much rather be around positive people, because it gives me proactive contrast if I do feel bad.  But at that moment, I found it exhausting to be there, and just wanted to go home.   Sometimes, I don't realize how negative I am until I become aware of it later.  It's much like an alcoholic that admits they are one, after finally becoming disgusted with themselves.  It is at that point, that they are ready for change.  What a glorious day!   I'm so appreciative that I have developed the skill to be consciously aware of these types of thoughts and feelings.

So a question I asked myself was, "If I can block out positivity even though I'm surrounded by positivity, couldn't I exert the same power to block out negativity even though I'm surrounded by negativity?"  The answer had to be "yes".  Now, I just need to become stronger emotionally so as to solidify this belief in my subconscious.  This does not mean I should seek out unfavorable situations, circumstances and people.  Another question I asked was, "Can I develop the courage to allow positivity to affect me when I'm surrounded by positivity and discover positivity when I'm surrounded by negativity?"  The answer again had to be "yes"!  The last question I asked myself was, "If I allow positivity to affect me, will my actions produce positive results eventually, even if setbacks occur?"  The answer had to be, without a shadow of a doubt, "yes"!

Our best is different from when we are feeling good than from when we are feeling bad.  When my emotions and/or energy are low, I think of this agreement I have with myself and do my best.  I'm very glad I did that today.  If I didn't, I wouldn't have unveiled what I was supposed to learn.  And even if I didn't do my best, for whatever reason, I would make a conscious decision to take responsibility, learn from my mistakes and take action on those adjustments.  It was a great training today indeed!



Saturday, March 12, 2011

A Dream Within a Dream

As I was going about my day, I reflected on my life so far.  I must say, it has been a good life and I appreciate it so much.  I was an artist, a top chess competitor, an athlete, a professional musician, a model, a student and graduate of a pretigious university, an administrator and a site manager of a top educational program.  Now, I'm an entrepenuer, a community advocate, a business professional, a traveler, an explorer and an author.  What I inspire to become is a philanthropist, a prominent leader, an influential motivational speaker, a financial guru, a best seller and a household name.  It's a blessing to know that my efforts in life have been progessive in my contribution to the world.  I'm excited about the future.  The present constantly unfolds and it's up to me to untap my potential.

What prompted me to reflect was an advertisement I was revising for the 42nd UC Open Taekwondo Championships.  It's a national level competition, held annually at UC Berkeley, that is well known in the US and the world.  Thanks to the wonderful coaching and training from my team captain, Jason Han and the rest of the Cal team, I was able to medal in full contact, black belt sparring competition two years in a row at the UC Open.  They're also a major reason I was able to win 11 medals at national, state, regional and collegiate championships.  The following year after I stopped competing, I designed the front cover of the magazine for the tournament.  Now, a decade later, I am placing an ad in the program book.  This is one of many examples of life coming full circle, on some level.

I am fascinated on how my life up until now are pieces to a puzzle that's leading to a masterpiece.  Without me playing chess, I would not be associated with those who desire higher education.  Without such friends, I would not have attended UC Berkeley.  Without attending to UC Berkeley, I would not have fought on the collegiate taekwondo team. Without the martial art program and collegiate team, I would not have explored my artistic side.  Without exploring my artistic consciousness, I would not have come across my professional music endeavor.  Also, at this point in my life, I would not have come across the friend who will introduce me to a business that has taken me to many parts of the world.  And finally without my business, I would not be placing an ad in the UC Open magazine.  Of course, there are many more connections for other parts of my life, though I believe my point is made.

As I closed my eyes and meditated this afternoon, I visualized myself re-living my life up until now.  It seems like a dream or even a different life altogether.  I know I was there but it doesn't feel like I was at this present moment.  I then envisioned my future and ways it could happen. If I am a successful entrepenuer, for example, I can give back in more ways than I do now.  I can design a music studio and a martial art room for myself in my dream beach house.  I can truly say "thank you" to my mom and dad for raising me, by allowing them to never worry about money or any sense of lack.  I can make a name for myself, by giving all my money away to all the right causes and the right people before I leave this planet.  It sure will be something.




Friday, March 11, 2011

Mother Nature Speaks

As we pray for the people in Japan, I can't help but think about my attitude many years earlier.  While I did find global catastrophies tragic, it never really hit home for me.  I didn't feel that the forces of nature will ever head my way.  After all, I live in California, right?

However, the tsunami did hit home for thousands of Japanese and our coast was on tsunami advisory.  Even though I live about an hour from that area, the idea that nothing will ever really happen to me, in terms of natural disaster, was questioned.  I mean, honestly, why would I believe in something that naive?  Despite how ridiculous it sounds, I don't think I'm the only one who currently thinks this way.

As I saw the footage of the devistating forces, I was reminded how truly fragile we are.  Even with that, there are different perspectives.  One is to live in fear and another is to live in appreciation.  We never know when we will be taken from this Earth.  I truly cherish my life, as well as the challenges and many blessings that come with it.


Thursday, March 10, 2011

Letter B

A successful man told me on New Year's Eve never to piss anyone off. Though I do what I can, it's a simple principle that I still find hard to live by.  Obviously, this person is where he is due to this rule of thumb, among many others.  I suppose that's what separates me from him.  At first glance, it seems absurd.  How can we never piss anyone off?  What if some people we cross paths with are attempting to take advantage of us?  If we stand up to them, wouldn't we piss them off?  The answer to these questions is one in the same: those that are looking to hurt others are already pissed off.  Standing up to them is the right thing to do.

As I think more about this idea, I think of all the people in my life that really upset me from time to time.  There's that occasional inner monologue, "If only they didn't act this arrogant and stupid, I'd have an easier time applying this concept!".  It wouldn't suprise me if I was that arrogant and stupid person in someone else's mind.  Hey, nobody's perfect, right?  What I can say though is that I'm working on myself.

We are dealt the cards from the universe in this lifetime.  We either play our hand or fold to circumstance.  No, it's not like Texas Hold 'Em, where you can play another round.   If we do fold, much like a person in the passenger seat in a moving car, we have little to no control of our destination.   Also, in all maturity, we have no right to complain if we give up the privilege to take the driver's seat of our own life.

So, now I bring it back to those annoying people that are in most of our lives.  What are we suppose to think?  I feel that challenges are a means to allow us to grow from the experiences.  Without growth, then we cannot achieve our destined path towards doing something great in this world.  The seemingly negative people are a means to teach us learning lessons that will eventually benefit others.  This does NOT mean spend our time with these people.  Stay away from those that make us feel bad! We must, even if they are family and friends.  I recently started applying this and I've been more productive and a lot less stressed out.  In fact, my blood pressure is probably lower too!

What are indications of people that we need to limit our association with or, better yet, disassociate with?  Those that, of course, make us feel bad.  We can't hang around people that are extremely opinionated and feel that their way is the only and best way to look at things.  Have you ever heard the expression "my way or the highway"?  If they act and think this way, even unknowingly, don't confront them, just LET THEM BE.  Also, let them go.  Stay clear of these individuals.  We can't change them.  They can only change themselves.

On a side note, if you are reading this, you were meant to contribute immensely, perhaps beyond your own comprehension.

Many times, we feel that we are so insignificant in the big scope of the world we live in.  We have a small self-image of ourselves.   However, it is my belief, that if we accept our greatness, we will leave a legacy and leave this Earth a very happy person.  The flurry of many saying "thank you" will exceed any monetary compensation we WILL receive as a result of adding that value to others.  We will never achieve anything worthwhile without making sure we help enough people get what they want.  In my business, it is crucial that we know what our organization wants.  Of course, it's a two-way street.  The people in the organization must at least speak up and express what they want.  Without that, we can't help them achieve their desires to the full extent in which we would like.  If we help them along the journey of life, our success is then realized.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

A Glass of California

Today was a great day here in California.  It was productive as well as warm, sunny and simply glowing with joy. Just like the weather can affect our environment, our thoughts play a big role as to what kind day we are going to have.  It's like a forecast.  If we have negative thoughts, there's a chance of showers or even a thunder storm headed our way in our minds.  By contrast, if we have positive thoughts, we will have nothing but sunshine in our heart and everything will seem to go our way.

While being "happy go lucky" seems to be a widely accepted concept, it is still not commonly practiced.  If it were, ideally we would have no war, poverty or any extensive suffering.  The truth is many of us have received negative programming from our friends, family, the media and society at large.  It can certainly be argued that our loved ones do not intend to feed us such bad thoughts and feelings.  However, the evidence of poor psychology exists in the world we live in, as the adverse effects reveal itself in the form of violence, greed, jealously, anger, sadness, etc.  Of course, there are moments of positivity, as we see kindness and good deeds all around us, but for the most part, the majority are living in their own personal state of inner conflict and unhappiness.

Why am I bringing this up?  It's because I fell into negativity and self-pity many times.  Somehow, I was programmed to be unhappy, not knowing my true self worth.  Perhaps not everyone is wired this way. However, it is an issue that we are starting to face as a whole through education (books like "The Secret", "Think and Grow Rich" and "As a Man Thinketh" are becoming more popularized).  There are times when I catch myself being negative.  It's been embedded so deep in my subconscious that I was no longer aware of it until recently!

Today was a great example.  Even though the sun was out and the weather was nice, I almost had a mental thunderstorm!  While presenting my business to a friend, who happens to be a fellow rotarian and  chamber member, I started to think that I was wasting his time by trying to "sell him" health products.  At one point in my discussion, I went into "autopilot", meaning because I did the presentation so much, I simply spoke without thinking (much like when you are driving somewhere).  I mentally checked out, because in my mind, I didn't want to face what seemed to be inevitable: rejection.

After I was done, he liked what I was sharing and decided to purchase a month's supply advanced probiotics.  Now, I'm used to selling at much higher volumes, so my first reaction in my mind was negative.  But I managed to step out of my mental cloud that was about to storm and say to myself, "First of all, at least he bought something.  Second of all, he has a great network within the community.  If he likes his results, he will not only purchase more products, but will also refer many people that trust him in the area.  He might even do the business with you later on down the road.".

So I was able to avoid having a bad day.  It doesn't matter if there is unfavorable weather of any kind, having a good day or bad day is all up to us.  We need to educate ourselves on emotional intelligence and find ways to find the good or at least learning lessons in each and every situation.  Let's take that responsibility.  It's not only for ourselves, but also everyone we come in contact with.  We can truly make the world a better place if we check ourselves.

Life is full of obstacles.  According to Napoleon Hill, author of "Think and Grow Rich", every misfortune comes with it a seed of opportunity. Let's plant these seeds in the soil of our mind, and allow them to grow into something beautiful so we can share it with others.  Remember, next time our glass is at that halfway point, we should make sure to focus on it being half full, not half empty, so that we can savor things we're grateful for to the last drop!

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Principal for the Day

I'm very pleased to have a comment on my first post, as well as a follower.  Thank you, Geri for your comment and thank you, Joe for being the first to follow my blog.  Upon Geri's request, I will speak about my experiences of being a "Principal for the Day".

The program was funded by the chamber of commerce in my local community, in which I am a member.  The chamber of commerce is a group of local businesses that look to increase cashflow in there own business by creating comradery within and exchange products or services and/or referrals.   According to wikipedia, "chamber of commerce (also referred to in some circles as a board of trade) is a form of business network, e.g., a local organization of businesses whose goal is to further the interests of businesses. Business owners in towns and cities form these local societies to advocate on behalf of the business community. Local businesses are members, and they elect a board of directors or executive council to set policy for the chamber. The board or council then hires a President, CEO or Executive Director, plus staffing appropriate to size, to run the organization.".


Anyhow, I was delighted at the opportunity of going to a school, and taking over as a principal for just one day.  It was an honor to serve Armstrong Elementary School in Diamond Bar, CA.  The staff was extremely friendly and I got a chance to meet the real principal Cynthia Sanchez.  That day, we had an event known as the "Eagle Walk", a community fundraiser for the school.  I was so pleased to see all the children and parents get involved!  Children were to run laps around a field.  Each lap was awarded a donation from a sponsor, be it a parent or a friend.  

I got a chance to visit every classroom, from K-6th grade, answering questions and interacting with all the children.  They were all delightful and inspiring.  I reminisced about my childhood and also became excited of the untold bright future of these young people.

In short, I'm grateful to be a participant of this program.  It helps me stay connected with the community and understand their needs, and to see how I can help them through my own goodwill.  By developing a relationship with everyone, I know that I can add true value through my interaction and what I offer in my business.  I look forward to more events, more contributions and more ways of making other's life better.

By doing this, not only will our sense of self worth improve and not only will we improve the lives of others, but our deeds will return in a form of compensation that is more than we "put in".  This is also called "karma" or for the scientific folks out there "cause and effect".  It may be in the form of joy, cashflow or even better relationships.  Perhaps it may reveal itself as all of the above and more.  Whatever you seek in life, you will never receive until you have improved the lives of others.  After a while, you will do good things because it simply makes you feel good and that's a great compensation, I feel!

Thanks again, Geri for your suggestion!  :-)


Monday, March 7, 2011

Hello, Fellow Citizens of the World!

Welcome to my personal website.  The internet can be a cold place at times.  My intention behind creating this site is share of myself: my hopes, my dreams and even my shortcomings.  In doing so, I will build stronger relationships with my family, friends, colleagues, business partners and anyone else I interface with all around the globe, whether in person or online.  I feel this is essential in establishing such connections.

You see, many of my friends and family have grown distant, only to be updated by their facebook status or an occasional phone call or text.  It's no one's fault.  That's just how life is.  At least for me, I'm looking to change that.

In addition, I'm very much involved with my local community as a member of the rotary and the chamber of commerce.  My website will also allow new people I meet to get to know me on a deeper level. In essence, this is for my future friends and family as well.  I feel we are all connected.  Somehow, we've forgotten.

In upcoming blogs, I will talk about my personal experiences, both good and the seemingly bad.  All in all, I will share my life's lessons so that we can all learn, develop and grow as better people.  While some of the topics I discuss are niche in nature, the underlying lessons to be learned are still widely universal.  This statement will become clearer in later entries.  Stay tuned and thank you!