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Friday November 30, 2001

Lovers Triangle Has Only 2 Sides

Leslie had a jealous husband. He was always accusing her of having affairs that she knew nothing about. He would yell and scream at her. He always embarrassed her in front of her friends.
Many of her friends had warned her to make a hasty retreat from the marriage. She remained in an effort to salvage the relationship. One day she was at home when her husband showed up early from work.
She figured he wanted to spend some quality time with her. She thought, we sure could use some time together. Things had been going good lately and she was hoping they would stay that way.
She saw him get out of the car in front of the house. He slammed the car door. He looked very angry as he approached the house.
She knew any hopes of having a good time were over. She wondered what it would be this time. He stormed into the house. He said where is he. She said who? He said you know who. When I find him I am going to kill him. Leslie knew he was having one his jealous rages about her imaginary lover.
She was surprised when he grabbed a samurai sword off the mantle and went storming through the house. He went to every room looking for her imaginary lover. When he did not find anything he came back more angry than ever. He looked at the patio door.
He asked, did he go out that way? Leslie tried to make her way to the front door, but he jumped in her way. He pointed the sword at her chest and demanded to know who was her boyfriend. She pleaded that she did not know who he was talking about.
He ignored her and exclaimed that she must think he is stupid. With the sword still pointing at her chest, he was yelling profanity at the top of his lungs. It was like he was another person. She had seen this behavior before but not to this level.
She knew he was out of control. All of a sudden there was a loud crash in the front of the house. He lowered the sword and turned to see what was going on. Someone had hit his parked car. As he looked out front, Leslie saw her chance to escape. She ran out the open patio door over to a neighbors house and called the police.
They met Leslie at the neighbors house and escorted her home. When they police arrived at the house, her husband was completely different. It was like nothing had happen. He said hello honey I was wondering where you went. He seemed to have no memory of the incident with Leslie. The sword was back over the mantle and he swore he never touched it.
Leslie knew without evidence she would never be able to prove any of the accusations. She also knew that her husband needed the kind of help she could not provide. Then she remembered the hidden camera she used to watch repair personnel.
It was in the form of a clock. She knew then that she had evidence. She told the police about the camera. They took Leslie and her husband to the station where they reviewed the footage. It revealed that everything she said was true. Her husband was placed under arrest pending psychological examination.
He was determined to have a split personality and to be a danger to anyone near him. He was place under care at a mental hospital. Leslie divorced him and moved to an undisclosed location.
Sometimes the people we know may have disorders. Many may pose a threat to themselves and the people around them. If someone close to you start acting strange it may be a signal that they need professional help. Do not wait and always have a plan to defend yourself if necessary.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Thursday November 29, 2001

Digital Displays: A Little More About High Definition

A display panel can be SD, or standard definition, ED, or enhanced definition, or HD, high definition. Displays are made up of individual picture elements, called pixels. Basically, the idea is the more pixels, the higher the resolution of an image. Thus, an SD display with a pixel count of 704 (horizontal) x 480 vertical) has less resolution than an ED display with 852 x 480 pixels. HD displays, which have even more pixels and are at the top of the resolution food chain for displays, come in three flavors 720p, 1080i and 1080p. (More on the "i" and the "p" in a moment.)
A 720p HD display has 1280 pixels (horizontal) by 720 (vertical) 1080i and 1080p displays have 1920 pixels by 1080 pixels, or more than 2 million individual picture elements. The letters "i" and "p" stand for interlaced and progressive, respectively. Interlaced displays, like ordinary TV sets and 1080i HDTVs, paint individual lines of pixels back and forth top to bottom across the display on the odd numbered lines (in HDTVs those are 1, 3, 5...1079) first and then the evens (2, 4, 6...1080) before beginning the process over and over. Taken together the odd numbered line "field" and the even numbered line field create one "frame," or complete still image. There are 30 such frames displayed per second.
Progressive displays, like computer monitors and 1080p HDTVs, display lines sequentially (1, 2, 3... 1080) before beginning the process again. These 1080p HD displays paint 60 new still images on the screen every second. With twice the frame rate (60 versus 30),1080p demands twice the amount of data as 1080i.
That difference in frame rates means different things to different parties interested in high definition. To marketers using an HD as the display technology in a digital signage network, 1080p is the top-of-the-line image quality they can expect to achieve for the foreseeable future. If the message they are communicating requires the utmost resolution, 1080p may be the right choice. However, 1080p displays are more expensive and there will be a price to pay in terms of content storage required to drive that messaging.
To broadcasters who must work within the law administered by the FCC for transmission of HD, 1080p is too much. Simply given what they must work with, 1080p is beyond their capacity to deliver. Thus, 1080i and 720p are the broadcast HD format
To movie studios wishing to distribute their films in the highest display format available in the home, 1080p is the answer. Much of the buzz over Blu-ray and HD-DVD optical discs is in part about the ability of the competing formats to deliver superb image quality. Those formats -and their use of a blue frequency laser with a shorter wavelength that can write more data per area of storage- were designed to be able to write the all of the 1080p data to disk that's needed to playback a full-length movie plus bonus material.
But here's the most important party in the 1080p HD resolution equation the audience. Whether you're a digital signage marketer, a broadcaster or a movie studio, you are faced with same question How do I affordably deliver the level of quality to my audience that satisfies my desired communications goal? In other words, how much resolution is enough for the communications task at hand?
Only you can answer that question. To illustrate how subjective the answer is, consider this ABC, ESPN, Fox and My Network TV rely on 720p, or 720 progressive lines, for HD service while NBC, CBS and PBS rely on 1080i. Perhaps before you decide which level of HD resolution is most appropriate for your high definition digital signage network, you should flip between ESPN's "Sportscenter HD" (720p), "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" (1080i) and "March of the Penguins" (1080p) playing back from an HD-DVD player or "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" (1080p) from a Blu-ray player on your 1080p display. You may be surprised by what you observe.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Wednesday November 28, 2001

Nerds Gone Wild

Jeffery and Xavier were computer programmers. They worked in the fiercely competitive computer gaming industry. They worked for the same company and were competing for the title of best game programmer. They had been assigned to come up with the next greatest video game sensation. This placed them in head to head competition.
The company knew the value of being the first to market the next great video game. It offered a bonus of 1 million dollars and 10% royalty to the owner of the game selected for marketing. It was a large sum of money but the company stood to make 20 or 30 times that amount if the chosen game was successful. Both Jeffery and Xavier had already labored for the past year to create the game of the century.
Each guarded their game secrets with the tenacity of a CIA agent. No one except them knew the full programming of each game. They knew that one slip of the tongue could not only cost them the money, but their reputation as a programmer as well. Jeffery knew that Xavier was better at some aspects of programming than he was. He compensated for his shortfalls by working extra long hour
In the face of competition he never led on that he was weak in some programming areas. Jeffery did not let his weakness keep him from competing. They both wanted to win the contest, which they knew, would instantly boost them to fame in the game industry. The two talked occasionally but were very careful to stay away from game secrets.
The judging day was fast approaching. Jeffery felt himself starting to loose energy. He also knew that Xavier was just as energetic as the day they started. By the week before the judging day Jeffery was totally exhausted. The long hours without sleep were taking their toll.
He noticed that Xavier was going strong and he wondered how he was keeping up his energy. One day while at work, Jeffery took a bathroom break. When he walked into the bathroom, he saw Xavier taking some pills. He said what you got a cold man? Xavier said no these help me stay awake.
Jeffery suddenly knew how Xavier was managing to keep his energy. Jeffery thought for a second. Then he said, man thats cheating. Xavier said there are no rules against taking a few pills to keep you awake. He said, the company just wants the game produced. They do not care what you do to get it done.
Jeffery said we will see. I will tell the judging committee, that you had an artificial advantage. Xavier did not really know the company rules. He just said that to bluff Jeffery, but it did not work. Jeffery insisted that Xavier would be disqualified.
Xavier knew what was at stake so he moved closer to Jeffery. He looked in his eyes and said, I am not about to loose all that money. Without thinking, he grabbed Jeffery and they struggled to the floor. Jeffery knew Xavier wanted to hurt him bad and he had to defend himself.
They fought fiercely for the next few minutes. They fell to the concrete floor and the fight continued. They were both bleeding from the scraps all over their bodies. They continued to struggle.
At that moment, a security guard that was making his rounds walked into the restroom. He saw what was going on. The two were so deeply engaged in the struggle that they did not notice him.
He called for help on his radio. Three other guards arrived in a few seconds. The guards manage to stop the fight. They detained the individuals and called the police. The two were taken to jail.
While in jail, all they could think about was the time they were loosing on the games. Later that day a vice president from their company bailed them out of jail. Under normal circumstances they would have been fired but the company knew what was at stake.
If they fired them they might take the work they had already accomplished elsewhere. That would cost the establishment millions of dollars. Besides, Xaviers actions turned out to be well within the companys rules. The pills he took were not illegal. They both returned to work on the games. Judgment day finally arrived.
The games were so impressive that they were both chosen for marketing. The games were better than anything the company officials had ever seen. They were marketed and became a huge success. Both programmers became millionaires and the company made millions more.
Sometimes perceptions of wrongdoing can lead to violence. This is especially true in highly competitive industry. If competition turns violent you must be prepared to defend yourself.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Tuesday November 27, 2001

The Health Problems of Vegetarians

Health practitioners are becoming increasingly alarmed at the growing problem of vegetarians and vegans who practice a restricted diet only to end up with a spectrum of malnutrition disorders. Where are these cases coming from, and who is convincing these people to slowly starve themselves to death? And the answers we will explore here aren't too cheery.
Vegetarianism is practiced by individuals for either its perceived health reasons or by some groups for religious reasons. Not all vegetarians have the same dietary requirements some are people who have decided to give up eating some or all meat. A vegan is the strictest kind of vegetarian, a person who also abstains from eating all types of animal products including cheese, milk, and eggs. Some vegetarians will eat items such as fish and eggs, and others will eat some types of dairy products such as milk or cheese.
However, regardless of the various motivations and practices, psychology has a name for vegetarians. "Orthorexia Nervosa" is a fixation on keeping a "righteous" diet, and it was first diagnosed by Colorado physician Dr. Steven Bratman in 1997. The term is derived from the Greek root word "ortho", meaning straight and correct, and refers to a psychological syndrome where the patient's food choices grow progressively narrower over time under the illusion of keeping the peace with either nature or a deity. The restrictions grow progressively narrower, until the person is convinced that anything outside of the handful of food groups they will eat is either poisonous or a sin. Nothing is allowed inside the body of a devout vegan which might be interpreted as a toxin. A vegan diet is an attempt to gain control over at least one simple aspect of a person's otherwise ordinary life, and in this way relates to bulimia and anorexia.
Like anorexia and bulimia, the disease of veganism is a perpetual cycle. The patient cuts half the food pyramid from their diet, starts to feel sluggish, then is told that the reason they feel down is because they have more toxins in their body and need to cut out even more food groups. For the religious motivation, the rational is likewise that they are feeling the symptoms of starvation because they are not spiritually pure enough, and the only cure for it is - guess what - to starve even more.
Unlike other psychological disorders, extreme veganism has its own organization spurring its - there is no other way to say it - cult members to greater and greater denial, and to recruit others to do likewise. Some members of PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, for one, publishes and distributes a body of literature which ranges far afield of merely treating animals ethically, to encouraging the radical vegan lifestyle. These tracts find their way into the hands of a target demographic, young teens, some of whom are impressionable enough to take them too seriously.
As a disclaimer, this is not meant to point the finger at all animal rights groups, all animal rights causes, or even all of PETA. Nor is it a blanket condemnation of all religions that have laws governing diet. But the facts as previously stated are nevertheless taking place.
Only a few of the dietary necessities that vegetarians typically fail to fulfill
* Zinc, which is an important element needed for healthy skin and a healthy immune system.
*Calcium, which of course is not only needed to keep our bones strong but it is also needed for functioning of the nerves and muscles, as well as helping our blood to clot properly.
* Vitamin D, which is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorou
* Iron, a deficiency of which leads to anemia.
* Vitamin B-12, needed for blood formation and cell division within the body. A deficiency in this vitamin can cause severe and irreversible nerve damage.
* And of course, plain old protein is needed for the body to grow and repair itself.
This is not to say that studious supplementation and careful menu planning can not compensate for most of the gaps left by the extreme vegan diet. But as any medical professional knows, whether you're talking about a vegan or a body-builder, the human body cannot survive indefinitely on protein powders, shakes, and pills. And the extreme vegans won't even take to the protein powders (whey solids come from milk!), and are after all eventually mistrustful of the health and food industries in general.
The problem of extreme diet restrictions is one more challenge that the health profession faces. The real cure for this practice will be the eventual education of the public on proper nutrition. Unfortunately, given the past luck with convincing people that folk remedies and snake oil cures are quackery, the prospects don't look good.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Monday November 26, 2001

There Are Many Parts To Starting A Home Based Business

There are many different parts to starting a home based business, and you have to be aware of what all of them are before you start.
First of all, you have to have a business plan in mind. This should be something that you have thought about a lot, so it can be something that you are working on while you are still at your other job. Your business plan should tell you what exactly the home based business is going to be about, and it should outline the ways that the home based business is going to make money. A well detailed business plan is the best way to start home business ideas moving forward, because you have to know what you have gotten in to before you begin, and you simply have to know what you are going to be doing in order to truly get it done.
The next thing that you should have before you start operating is a clear cut idea of how you will make money and how you will pay your employees. You have to think about how the money is going to be coming in for your business and how you will distribute it to employees. This is a non factor if the only employee is going to be yourself.
Next, you have to have an idea in mind about how your business is going to grow. This might not seem like it is needed to start home based business operations, but a successful business is going to be able to know exactly what they have to do in order to really succeed - this means that they are going to have to know what they need to do so that they can grow in the future, which is the point of all of the home businesses and it should also be the point of yours. So make sure that before you start, you have what you need when it comes to a plan for the future.
The other thing you need to have before you start home based business running is the idea of where you are going to have your business. You might simply want to put it in your home, but if this is the case you need to have an area of the home that you can truly count as your business area, and you have to make sure that the area of your home is going to be used for your business and that you can also have it as part of your home when you need it to be a part of your home.
Once you have these things you can really proceed, and you can begin to make money with your home based business!

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Sunday November 25, 2001

Teaching Hatha Yoga: Don't Forget Beginners

Some Yoga teachers forget the need for instruction at the beginner level. Many Yoga teachers have been guilty catering to "advanced students." However, many of your Yoga classes should still be geared toward beginner
Before some Yoga studios officially opened the door, they have more eager beginner students than they have space for.
Although, an ashram may have an entourage of on-site Yoga teacher interns, and the director has envisioned creating a learning center for Yoga teachers, the demand for beginner classes is far beyond the expectation
What does this all mean? Any Yoga teacher will do fine with beginner classes, as the demand for the benefits of Yoga is also global. I hear similar stories from many other Yoga teachers in every part of the earth.
If you have been teaching and practicing Yoga all day - assist, cue, and guide, when you need a break. When you find yourself tired, do not be concerned with performing every Yoga posture in your classes. Most of all, make it fun and incorporate stimulating methods and idea
For internal healing and healthy lifestyles, Yoga teachers are on the right path. Most humans are disconnected from their bodies and run on "auto-pilot." This is much similar to the behavior of a pigeon. To link the mind, body, and spirit, in unity, is rare for pigeons, as well as most human
With global obesity on the rise, Yoga will not fade in popularity. There are too many people who are mentally detached from their physical body. This can be observed by the increase in the size of children.
This will require action on the part of everyone, but Yoga teachers have an opportunity to educate their students toward the best quality life. Teach your Yoga students about the doshas. If you need to know more about this, or any Yoga subject, get the continuing education required to help your Yoga student
The demand for Yoga teaching services is great. Grow with your Yoga students. You are already a few steps ahead on the path of unity. That is the definition of any teacher "One who has been there before." Your mission is to show them "the way" toward optimum mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health.
Do not worry about physical feats, when performing Yoga postures. Yoga has pranayama, mudras, mantras, doshas, meditation, relaxation, chakra balancing, and much more.
There is no doubt that you will be a safe Yoga teacher, when you have concerns about contraindications for Yoga postures. The safety factor is a more important aspect for a Yoga teacher, than a gymnastic "circus act."
Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Saturday November 24, 2001

Find Success Through Persistent Self-Motivation

What is it about a business that can wreck someone? Have you experienced that pain before? It can break you down and make you wonder if there is even a possible way out of it. Have you put your whole heart and trust into something that didn't work out? I have. I know what that is like and I sympathize with you.
I remember starting businesses with the thoughts of millions of dollars, success, luxuries and enjoyment beyond comprehension. I would stay up all night dreaming about how I was going to be successful with my business. I would do anything to create that success. I would read, study, market, ask questions, whatever it would take and in the end fear set in and hurdles seemed to be too big for me to understand.
I would let the business get the best of me. Sure I had plenty of excuses such as people and circumstances. I know I could blame others, but in the end it always comes down to me. No one can take away my agency. I have to choice of how I will respond to any circumstance. I can let it tear me down if I want or I can learn from it.
I never let it happen again and actually somewhere deep inside feel grateful for that lesson that I was able to learn now rather than later. I know that I have great, cingular capabilities that allows for me to succeed. I believe that exists in you.
Does this story sound familiar? I think it does all to well. I think that it probably doesn't apply just to business. It applies to everything that you face in the complexities of your lives. It applies my relationships, my faith, my health, everything. The success is not just achieving a goal, but everything that leads up to it.
I want to remind you that every no is one step closer to a yes. Every wrong is one step closer to a right. That is life. The worse thing we could do is not fail, but instead to never try. Failure is a state of mind. I talk to so many people daily that let their own mind beat themselves.
It is like a tragic disease, but what is worse than a physical ailment is that they can go a lifetime without even realizing it. Then the end comes up and you wonder to yourself, "Why didn't you take that chance?" Honestly what is there to really lose, your pride? Well that is a good thing because there are two kinds of people in the world, those that are humble and those that will be humbled.
I would suggest being a part of the first so that you can be happy. So go out and enjoy your "learning experiences". Appreciate them and laugh about them because if you do hit rock bottom then all you can go is up. Just make sure that you keep moving.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Friday November 23, 2001

How to Deal in Computer Repossessions for Huge Profits

Why not consider dealing in repossessed and liquidated personal computers and laptops? It is a business that can be operated in any democratic country in the world.
It's a very simple business and there's really nothing to prevent anyone from starting their own liquidated resale business just as many others have done.
The chance to produce an annual income from a home based operation, or even from a commercial unit, reselling computers and software for profit is a definite possibility. Not only that but there are resources available that give vital information relating to locating valuable liquidated merchandise at rock-bottom trade prices.
Unlike most other businesses which require a great amount of starting capital, there is a proven method that can be used to make money almost from day one. No fancy premises are required. Very little capital is needed, as it is possible to start with just a couple of notebooks to resell and then to accumulate seed capital from initial profits made which can be as high as 150 percent on liquidated item
The business is unaffected by slumps and recessions which tend to hurt most other businesse
Sales of computers and computer software remains buoyant despite recent peaks and troughs and show no sign of reaching a peak. In fact it is growing worldwide at a staggering rate. More and more men and women are needed to help in the promotion and marketing of computers and computer related products.
If you haven't done any selling previously don't be concerned about it because there is no shortage of eager, willing buyers. Online trade-training in this field is available too.
All you need the desire to make regular cash profits. There is definitely no hard selling involved. Enthusiasm and a little common sense is really all you need to make good money in the business.
Whether you are a beginner or a pro in the computer business, it is essential when writing to the repo liquidators to type your letters on your business letterhead. Many of the listed contacts will only deal with trade and some will need proof of your credentials as a bona-fide trader, but that's easy to esatblish in a single day.
To operate the business during the initial stages, you will need nothing other than a couple of duplicate books for sales and purchases, but when progressing into trade purchases you should have made sufficient profits to up-grade your business and to afford the costs of ordering printed business letterheads
Your stationery can build up your image or tear it down. Never write to any source in handwritten form.
Give it some serious consideration because you now have the tools to make a start as a computer repo dealer.
Copyright 2007 Harry S Richards

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Thursday November 22, 2001

Mother Of Three Is Attacked By A Fourth

Elena was a single mother of three. She had two young sons and a teenage daughter named Kayla. Her husband had left about a 2 years ago, but the family was still making adjustments. The two sons seemed to understand the situation and were willing to help their mother in any way possible.
The daughter on the other hand seemed to resent her mother. She blamed her mother for her dad leaving. The truth of the matter was that her mother had grown tired of her husband addictions. They led to other problems and at times came pretty close to violence.
She kept this a secret from the children so they would not hate their father. Kayla saw her mom as the evil one. Kayla was also beginning to have problems. She had several brushes with the law and her attitude was going down hill daily.
There were many strange things going on with Kayla. She would stay out all night and become very angry when her mom told her about it. She would walk away in the middle of a conversation. One night Kayla stayed out very late, her mother decided to sit up and wait for her to ensure her safety.
Kayla came home about 2 AM. She was in a car with an older looking guy. Her mother peeked through the window and saw them drive up. They got out of the car and walked up to the front porch. She pulled the door open. They came inside. Elena was furious and right away an argument started. At first the guy just stood there and watched.
Then he said listen do not talk to my girlfriend like that. Elena said she is my daughter. She also said, I want you to leave my house. He said shut up. He told Kayla to come on lets go. Elena said, Kayla is not going anywhere. The guy said I told you to shut up and he started toward Elena. He shoved her and she fell to the floor.
Then he grabbed Kayla by the arm and said are you going with me. She must have came to her senses because she said no! She saw her mom lying there on the floor and she rushed over to help her. She told the guy to leave or she would call the police herself.
The guy said fine, who needs you anyway. You are nothing but a mamas child. The guy turned around went out the door, got into his car and sped off into the night. That must have been a turning point in Kaylas life. She began to help her mother in any way that she could. In fact Elena and Kayla are not just mother and daughter they are best of friends.
Family members can resent each other when they do not have all the facts. They may take actions that place other members in jeopardy. If the situation becomes violent you must be able to defend yourself and your loved ones.
Many spur of the moment violent acts occur without weapons. You may have an opportunity to remove yourself from danger. If you do, take immediate action.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Wednesday November 21, 2001

Who Else Wants To Learn More About The Secret?

I am sure all of us have heard from someone or have watched the movie "The Secret". This movie has taken the world by storm and even Oprah has caught on this buzz and featured it in her show. In the movie, prominent self development gurus like Bob Proctor, Joe Vitale, Esther Hicks are featured. If you have not watched it yet, please do yourself a favor and find a copy to watch it.
So what is all the hype about? The Secret is about the Law of Attraction. This concept is not new. In fact, it has been around for some time starting from Charles Haanel's Master Key System, Napolean Hill's Think And Grow Rich and many more.
Law of Attraction states that whatever you think and focus on, you will attract into your life. Sounds simple? I am afraid not. It entails much more than that.
This involves much more than just thinking and focusing. There are many people who tried to use the Law of Attraction that complains that it does not work. Why? This is probably due to the fact that the Law of Attraction can work both ways, in a positive way or a negative way.
It begins with you, your mind and the ability of your mind to control your thoughts and emotions. You must first know and understand how you can control your thoughts. Once you can control your thoughts, you can effectively manage your emotions. For example, if you feel overwhelmed at times, instead of thinking about all the issues at hand, you can shift your thoughts to think if you can resolve all these issues, what are the benefits that it can bring you. However, when you just focus on the issues or problems, the Law of Attraction work too, by bringing more problems to you!
The point is to be able to see beyond the problem, stop thinking about the problem, think of it as an opportunity and focus on its solution instead.
The good news is that after reading this article, you are now aware of the Law of Attraction and how it works. You are one step ahead of the rest of the world!
So stop worrying and focusing on your lack or problems. So instead, channel your focus and thoughts on the what you need by visualizing an image of it. Know and believe that you have the power to change your life and make your life better!

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Tuesday November 20, 2001

Security Guard Awakens In The Middle Of Train Track

Billy was a railroad security guard. His company was one of the largest in the country. He knew the rail yard well. He also knew of all the dangers that come from working around trains. He also knew of the danger from all the low lifes that hung around the yard. Sometimes he had a vehicle but usually made his patrol by foot.
He encountered all sorts of characters on his daily routes. He had been trained not to apprehend them. The exception was, if they were interfering with the company business. Most of them were there to catch a quick nap. He usually just woke them up and urged them to move off railway property.
Most of them willingly complied. Every once in a while he would he would exchange a few heated words with them. Most of the time they just obeyed his orders and left.
He knew that he would probably see them again later that day or the next day. He knew most of them by face. He also knew which ones would be most resistive.
There was nothing he could do except try to persuade them to leave railway property. The company did not want to start detaining large numbers of vagrant
One day while on routine patrol he came across a man sleeping in the middle of a train track. He thought man this guy must be crazy. He could not see his face, so he assumed it was just one of the regular
He woke the guy up to keep him from getting hurt by a train. He pushed the guy with his baton. The guy quickly jumped up. Beneath his long shabby hair his face slowly appeared. Billy had never seen this guy before.
He had a crazed look in his eyes. Billy had seen that look before and knew this guy was on Methamphetamine, a cheap illegal drug. Billy knew he had to be cautious.
Meth addicts had a tendency to explode violently if agitated. Billy asked the man to leave railway property, but the man just stood there. He demanded the man leave rail property again.
The man started slowing moving straight toward Billy. Billy knew there was going to be trouble. He prepared to defend himself. It was rail yard policy not to allow them to carry guns.
The only weapon he had was his nightstick. The man was unarmed, but Billy had heard about the incredible strength these guys have when they are on drugs. He did not want to take any chances, so he prepared to defend himself.
The guy kept moving toward Billy and reached out to grab him. Billy swung his club one time and hit the guy on the arm. The guy did not budge. It did not phase him. Billy knew it was time to get out of there.
He pushed his panic button and started running. In a few seconds a truck with armed security showed up. After a brief struggle they detained the guy for local authorities. Billy was shaken up but otherwise all right.
After that incident patrol guards were allowed to carry a more variety of nonlethal weapons. They included things that could stop an attacker no matter what their condition. From that day on, Billy was prepared to defend himself if necessary.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Monday November 19, 2001

Party Patron Gets Stoned By Addict

Automatic Teller Machines offer cash in an emergency. They serve a great convenience in a fast paced society. They are also the scenes on many crimes. These crimes range from simple robbery to violent assaults.
You must always be aware of your surrounding but more so at ATMs, and especially at night. Jessica was a sophomore at a local college. She was an industrious young lady who also worked in a local restaurant to pay her expenses.
She worked at the restaurant on weekends and at night. She enjoyed meeting new people in the restaurant. For her friendliness, she was routinely rewarded with huge tips. She usually took the money home and deposited it in her account he next day. If she needed cash for emergencies she would use an ATM.
She has been known to frequent the ATM near her workplace. Occasionally she has used one at night, but she has never had a problem. One night while at work a friend called her to invite her to a late night party. Her first inclination was to say no, go home and get some sleep. Then her friend started naming everyone on the guest list.
On the list was a guy Jessica had been trying to get to know better. Even though it was against her better judgment, she agreed to come to the party. The party location was about 10 miles from where she worked.
She figured she would go there for a couple of hours and still get home in time to get plenty of sleep. She left work and headed for the party location. About 5 miles into the drive she remembered her friends were the types that liked to order extra pizza during a party.
She also realized that she did not have any cash. Jessica wanted to be prepared. She spotted an ATM about a block from a convenience store. Against her better judgment she decide to stop and get some cash. It was a drive through so she figured it would be safe.
Jessica pulled up to the ATM. She fed the machine her card and waited for the transaction. As she was waiting, she saw a man walk in front of her vehicle. At that moment she heard a loud crash. She ducked down in her vehicle. It shook her up momentarily.
She looked up and saw that her front windshield was smashed. The man had thrown a sizable stone at the window. He reached through the open driver side window and grabbed her arms. She struggled and after a moment was able to free herself. She sped out of the ATM area, leaving her cash and card behind.
In her rearview mirror, she could see the man taking the cash. He quickly fled in a wooded area. She drove to the nearby convenience store and reported the incident to police. They instantly recognized the robbery method.
There had been 5 other reported incidents of the same at other ATMs. The criminals usually caused a distraction to disorient the victim. They would then take whatever they could. Usually it was just the cash, but sometimes they tried to get other things.
On occasion there were assaults. It was a method commonly used by drug users looking to pay for their next high. You must be aware of your surroundings at all times, but especially at ATMs during night hours. If things become violent you must take action to defend yourself. You must absolutely seize any opportunity to remove yourself from danger.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Sunday November 18, 2001

Dealing in Laptop Computers is a Dream Come True

The huge advantages of starting a business dealing in laptops are not always appreciated but consider the following points
Laptop portable computers are easy to store. It is possible to operate the business from a single room. They take up minimal space and several could be stored under a bed.
They are always available from liquidation merchants and other specialist trade sources at prices which allow good reseller profit margins. It is a cash-doubler business for those who are quietly operating this business from a home base.
Laptops are easy to pack to sell by Mail Order. Take up to four under your arm to your local Post Office and using standard parcel rates and insurance the cost to fulfil orders will be a pittance compared to the profit potential.
However, unless working from a cramped room, be professional and send the order by courier service. After all, the profit margin is huge enough to allow for a "Free Delivery Service".
Laptops/notebooks purchased via from a repo or liquidation source can often allow for a mark-up ratio of 150 percent. It doesn't stretch the imagination to calculate how much could be made each week from just a couple of re-sales that might allow for doubling your investment on each transaction.
There are of course warranties to be considered and how to deal with any faulty returns. However, there is an easy way to resolve those issues to everyone's satisfaction. Just make a complete replacement and send the faulty one back to the supplier. If you only needed to do that three times in a whole year it would equate to a very small percentage of your total sales volume.
Sales of laptop computers and software remains buoyant despite recent peaks and troughs and shows no sign of reaching a peak. In fact it is growing worldwide at a staggering rate. More and more men and women will be needed to help in the promotion and marketing of computers and computer related product
Whether you are a beginner or a pro in the computer business, it is essential when writing to the suppliers and other contacts to type your letters on your business letterhead. Many wholesale suppliers will only deal with established dealer
Some suppliers will need proof of your credentials as a bona-fide trader, but there are legitimate ways for beginners to meet the criteria by obtaining a referral through any long established dealer who already meets that criteria.
Naturally some essential guidance should be obtained from the many sources avialable online to help new dealers. Also the knowledge to meet the necessary requirements enabling purchases at trade prices is vital. You will often come across some wholesale ads which specifically state "Trade Only". Therefore, you should write on printed business headed notepaper first.
To operate the business during the initial stages, you will need nothing other than a couple of duplicate books for sales and purchases. When progressing into trade purchases you should have made sufficient profits to up-grade your business and to afford the costs of ordering printed business letterhead
There is definitely no hard-selling involved. Enthusiasm and a little common sense are really all you need to make a good livelihood from the busines
Dealing in laptop computers has truly been a dream come true for many. Could it be the answer to your dream too?
Copyright 2007 Harry S Richards

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Saturday November 17, 2001

Star Player Get Low Grade On Temper

Beth is a professor at mid sized university in the southeast. The school has extremely high standards. All of the faculty and students pride themselves on great academic achievements. Graduates of the college have gone on to do great thing
In fact, if you were a graduate in good standing you were guaranteed to be a first employment prospect with some of the best corporations in the country. Everyone knew the expectations and worked hard to keep them. Jimmy was a senior at the university.
He was one of Beths students. He was a laid back southern boy whose main interest was football. He was an average student who did just enough schoolwork to make a passing grade. Some of the other students wondered how he had lasted in such a prestigious school.
Jimmy was also a star on the university football team. In the past, football players received special attention especially if they were stars. Sometimes the coaches would talk to the teachers and get them extra time to do their work. Many times the coaches would assist them with their work.
It was all to help keep them on the team. Even with the extra attention, Jimmy usually only passed by a slim margin. In order to preserve its academic standards the school instituted a new policy. No student would be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities if they did not meet a certain grade standard.
The coaches were furious. They knew they would loose some star players. Nevertheless those were the rules. If they were to remain employed at the university they had to abide. Jimmy was starting to get worried.
He knew he had a good chance at being drafted by a professional football team. He just needed to get enough game time in his senior year. He thought, man this school is going to ruin it for me. All the coaches tried to help Jimmy with his schoolwork.
Some of the students even loaned a hand. It was not enough. Jimmys old habits were hard to break. When Jimmys grades were reported he barely passed everything except Beths class. He failed it miserably. He knew he would be stripped from the team. He was furiou
Without taking time to find out his options. He went charging into Beths office. He slammed the report on her desk. He said, see what you did me. You are not going to get away with it. Beth was a little nervous. Jimmy grabbed her by both shoulders and started shaking her.
Just then one of the coaches walked in. He broke Jimmy away from Beth. Beth was disturbed by the incident but was not seriously hurt. College security arrived and took Jimmy into custody. He was eventually arrested and charged with assault.
Some people will not put forth the extra effort required to succeed. When they fail will blame others. Standards are enforced for a reason. If anyone is allowed to break them they are meaningless. When people do fail they should take the time to figure out what went wrong. Instead many jump to conclusion
If something of value is at stake they may become violent. They may see you as the cause of their problem. If the situation gets out of control you must be prepared to defend yourself if necessary.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
0 Comments

Friday November 16, 2001

Dealing in Laptop Computers is a Dream Come True

The huge advantages of starting a business dealing in laptops are not always appreciated but consider the following points
Laptop portable computers are easy to store. It is possible to operate the business from a single room. They take up minimal space and several could be stored under a bed.
They are always available from liquidation merchants and other specialist trade sources at prices which allow good reseller profit margins. It is a cash-doubler business for those who are quietly operating this business from a home base.
Laptops are easy to pack to sell by Mail Order. Take up to four under your arm to your local Post Office and using standard parcel rates and insurance the cost to fulfil orders will be a pittance compared to the profit potential.
However, unless working from a cramped room, be professional and send the order by courier service. After all, the profit margin is huge enough to allow for a "Free Delivery Service".
Laptops/notebooks purchased via from a repo or liquidation source can often allow for a mark-up ratio of 150 percent. It doesn't stretch the imagination to calculate how much could be made each week from just a couple of re-sales that might allow for doubling your investment on each transaction.
There are of course warranties to be considered and how to deal with any faulty returns. However, there is an easy way to resolve those issues to everyone's satisfaction. Just make a complete replacement and send the faulty one back to the supplier. If you only needed to do that three times in a whole year it would equate to a very small percentage of your total sales volume.
Sales of laptop computers and software remains buoyant despite recent peaks and troughs and shows no sign of reaching a peak. In fact it is growing worldwide at a staggering rate. More and more men and women will be needed to help in the promotion and marketing of computers and computer related product
Whether you are a beginner or a pro in the computer business, it is essential when writing to the suppliers and other contacts to type your letters on your business letterhead. Many wholesale suppliers will only deal with established dealer
Some suppliers will need proof of your credentials as a bona-fide trader, but there are legitimate ways for beginners to meet the criteria by obtaining a referral through any long established dealer who already meets that criteria.
Naturally some essential guidance should be obtained from the many sources avialable online to help new dealers. Also the knowledge to meet the necessary requirements enabling purchases at trade prices is vital. You will often come across some wholesale ads which specifically state "Trade Only". Therefore, you should write on printed business headed notepaper first.
To operate the business during the initial stages, you will need nothing other than a couple of duplicate books for sales and purchases. When progressing into trade purchases you should have made sufficient profits to up-grade your business and to afford the costs of ordering printed business letterhead
There is definitely no hard-selling involved. Enthusiasm and a little common sense are really all you need to make a good livelihood from the busines
Dealing in laptop computers has truly been a dream come true for many. Could it be the answer to your dream too?
Copyright 2007 Harry S Richards

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
0 Comments

Thursday November 15, 2001

How To Treat Hemorrhoids: From Home Treatment To Medical Care

Hemorrhoids are a venous dilation inside the anal sphincter of the rectum and beneath the mucous membrane (internal), or outside the anal sphincter and beneath the surface of the skin (external). The tissue of the walls of the venous system become weak and the veins may even form clots of blood. They can protrude into the anal canal or hang externally. Imagine hemorrhoids as weak veins similar to varicosity in the leg
Hemorrhoids are an overfilled blood vessel which needs to be relieved of some of the blood. Occasionally bloody streaks on the outside of your stool may come from hemorrhoids or temporary anal irritation. Hemorrhoids can present quite a bit of bright blood in the toilet or blood adhering to the stool or bright blood on the toilet tissue.
From Home Treatment to Medical Care

A hemorrhoid occurs when a vein in the anal area becomes enlarged and irritated. This condition can occur outside of the anus, and is called an external hemorrhoid. Internal hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are located inside of the anus and are often the cause of much rectal bleeding though hardly ever any pain. Deciding how to treat hemorrhoids will depend on whether it is internal or external hemorrhoids, how large they are, and whether they are causing much discomfort. If someone suspects that they have a hemorrhoid, it is important to see a doctor first, since other illnesses tend to mimic the symptoms of hemorrhoids as well. Once a doctor has diagnosed the problem, research can be done on how to treat the hemorrhoids in the most effective way.
How to Treat Hemorrhoids at Home
There are a number of things that can be done at home to treat hemorrhoid symptoms and bring more pain-free days and nights. First, a dietary change may be in order to keep the digestive system running smoothly and stools soft and easy to pass. This can include increasing the amount of fiber in a diet by eating more whole grains and fruits, as well as cutting back on processed foods that can be constipating. Also increase the amount of water in take, since this will also help the digestive system to run more smoothly and prevent constipation. Keeping weight in check and getting regular exercise are also good habits, but be careful not to participate in strenuous workouts like weight lifting that could actually exacerbate the problem.
Warm baths can be taken numerous times a day, and will greatly relieve the pain and itching that many hemorrhoid sufferers experience and will increase blood flow to the area. Try filling q tub with a few inches of clean, warm water, and sitting for up to ten minutes at a time. Using medicated wipes like Tucks or applying witch hazel to the area is another good method in how to treat hemorrhoid symptoms. Buying over-the-counter ointments or creams can offer a tremendous amount of relief from pain and itching. Simply apply after using the bathroom as many times a day as necessary to see relief.
How to Treat Hemorrhoids with your Doctor
If home remedies do not bring the desired relief, talk to a doctor about medical treatment options as well. These might include fixative procedures that will cause the hemorrhoid to shrink or even fall off, or surgical procedures to remove the hemorrhoid completely. When it comes to how to treat hemorrhoids most effectively, doctors will be the best source of information and advice.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
0 Comments

Wednesday November 14, 2001

Traffic Gets Businesswoman In A Jam

Jade was a 28 year old rising business star in her company. She worked for one of the largest banks in the Northeast. Her office building was located right in the heart of the downtown area.
She hated the traffic, but most of the time she could get around without many problems. When different events came to town, the traffic was really congested. On those days she took a taxi to and from work. Jade wanted to avoid the hassle of driving in the thick traffic full of short tempered drivers.
Today there was a major ceremony planned to honor some top level government officials. She knew the traffic would be crazy, so she decided to take a taxi for the day. Jade had become a good customer to the Cab Company. She also knew most of the driver
On this day the Taxi Company was experiencing a shortage of drivers because of all the visitors in the city. They hired some temporary people to fill the demand. Jade got one of the temporary driver
When she approached the cab he said, the manager apologizes that your regular driver could not come. Everything seemed all right. When the driver called the manager by name she felt safe. She got into the cab and they were on their way.
Immediately, Jade noticed he did not take the same route as the regular driver. She asked why? The driver said, the route he was taking would by pass all the celebration traffic. She thought that was a little strange. Jade also did not recognize any landmarks on that route.
The driver drove on. Jade was becoming nervous. She decided to call someone at work to let them know what was going on. She whipped out her cell phone but the battery was dead. She had forgotten to recharge it the following night. She started asking the driver all kinds of questions but he did not answer.
He just stared forward and kept driving. Finally he told her to shut up. At that moment she heard the electronic locks on the cab click. Panic set in. Her heart was pounding. She knew she was in trouble. She tried, but she could not open the doors. Jade knew her life was in danger.
She knew her only chance was to cause a scene by making this guy crash the car. She took the strap off her purse and quickly slipped it over the drivers head. He was choking. She held on for dear life. In an desperate attempt to breath he lost control of the car and crashed into a light post.
Traffic stopped and a crowd came to assist. They pulled Jade and the driver out of the car. The driver was unconscious. The police arrived and began to question Jade. She told them what happened.
They pulled a wallet from the drivers pocket while the emergency workers treated him. From his license they were able to determine that he was a convicted sex offender. They told Jade how lucky she was.
Jade was scratched up and suffered a broken arm, but was able to return to work in few weeks. She always remembers that incident and makes safety her number one priority at home and work. She knows that the incident could have had a much different ending. She took quick action to defend her self. It probably saved her life.
You may have to take drastic actions to defend yourself in a crisis. You may have to risk being injured to save your life or that of loved ones. It is good to have something that can cause a distraction long enough to allow you time to escape. While it is not possible to predict exactly what will happen. It is possible to take some preparation.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Tuesday November 13, 2001

How Easy Is It to Start Your Own Business?

The question regarding the ease of starting one's own business is one, which is asked quite often. There are many reasons why individuals express an interest in starting their own business from home, which makes the desirability level of this type of occupation quite high. Prior to starting their own business, individuals should consider a few different factors to determine just how easy, or not so much, starting one's own business may be.
Type of Business
The type of business that one is anxious to pursue is an important concept to consider in order determining how easy or difficult it may be to start operations. Some goods and services concepts may be more difficult to pull together than others and the type of business will determine how easily one can pursue it. The good news is that there are a multitude of business options available to individuals hoping to start their own business so if one business concept does not work, the prospective business owner can simply choose another one.
Work Space Available
The workspace that is available to future business owners is also something, which will determine the degree of difficulty with regard to starting ones own business. If the person wishes to pursue their job from home, it is crucial to ensure that the workspace is adequate in size, location and inclusiveness. In the alternative, for those who are going to work out of home and a warehouse, for example, both of these locations must be surveyed.
Employees
Whether or not employees will be part of the business is another important factor to consider in order determining the ease of starting one's own business. Although more employees may make the workload progress much more efficiently, having employees will present a bunch of new issues for the business owner to contemplate such as taxes, workers compensation, schedules and more.
The Simpler the Business Operations, The Easier It May Be
All in all, the simpler that the business operations and overall business concept may be, the easier it may be for the individual to start their own business. It is sometimes best to start out small and then increase the size of the company as the business owner becomes more comfortable with their new job situation and is better able to tackle any and all issues which come their way. Laying out a business plan ahead of time will enable the future business owner to see whether their overall business concept will be one, which they can pull off in an easy manner.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Monday November 12, 2001

Things My First Mortgage Mentor, Trainer, Broker Should Have Told Me...Part II

We've covered the fact that you're in business for yourself and, never stop learning, just to name a few. Here's a few more points that I wish I was told
1. Find a mentor.
There is a lot to learn. So much so, it's sometimes overwhelming. Working with someone who is experienced can help in areas that are unclear and confusing.
With a mentor, you can see concepts in motion, then emulate their techniques, and finally, tailor them to fit your personality and business. Many of the greatest minds in history had mentors when you come to think about it...
Socrates mentored Plato...Plato mentored Aristotle...Aristotle mentored Alexander the Great...Warren Buffet has mentored Bill Gates...and so on, and so on.
Remember, two experienced people can also team up and mentor each other. It's called "parallel mentoring," and real estate professionals have been doing it for years. With this concept, it's not a matter of learning new skills, but finding a better and more efficient way of getting things done by working together. Teaming up with another Mortgage Professional could be the solution for you.
2. A mortgage loan transaction has lots of details.
When you only have one loan transaction, you'll be able to do it all. But when you have three, four, five, or more in the works...it's more difficult to keep track of the all the dates and deadlines.
Set up some checklists that you and your client can follow for every step in the transaction. Your customer will love you and remember you for it.
3. Spend your technology dollars wisely.
You don't need the newest and latest gizmos. But, you do need ones you understand and will use.
You don't want to over spend and drain precious finances. However, you do need to take inventory of technologies you do have and use regularly. A simple upgrade may be all that's required.
Look for inexpensive programs that can make your marketing efforts easier and more efficient.
4. You need a business plan.
No if's, and's or but's...set up your business plan now. Too many people fly by the seat of their pants on this one.
A business plan aligns your strengths and values with your business. It forces you to set long term and short term goals. It forces you to think about your business in great detail.
If your goal is to close 24 loans in the next twelve months...work backwards to determine how many loan applications you need each month and eventually, how many people you need to contact each day to reach that goal?
Break your goal into bit size pieces...like a daily contact sheet or score card...and, keep track of your efforts.
5. Sometimes you just have to say "NO."
Sometimes you let your prospects dictate to you. If you control your time and efforts, everyone wins and the service you provide is exceptional.
Stick to your schedule and try batching your work. For instance, rather than answering each call as it comes in...return your morning calls at 11 AM and afternoon calls at 3 PM.
Be efficient and organized but not to the point of providing poor service.
6. Continue to invest and re-invest in yourself and your Mortgage Busines
If you don't continue to invest in marketing programs, self-improvement courses, continuing mortgage education, newsletters, and other mortgage services that will improve your lot...you'll fall behind your competition and surely fail in the mortgage busines
How much should this investment be? A minimum of 10% of your gross mortgage earnings is recommended. Many Mortgage Professionals I know invest close to 20% of their gross each and every year back into improving themselves and their busines
If you're new to the mortgage business you need to not only make a time commitment but a dollar investment as well. The drop-out rate in the mortgage industry is extremely high. Don't become a statistic.
Invest and re-invest in yourself and business each and every month. Budget the dollar amount and then review and increase that amount as you close additional loans. You'll be guaranteeing
your advanced degree in marketing and finance and your mortgage success.
7. You'll have "bad" days, and then it'll get even worse.
Yes...we all have them. And, because you're dealing with deadlines and people being inconvenienced...things can get a little heated.
So, do the best you can...don't panic...keep people informed, and...be honest. Everything will work out for the best...and just kept smilinghappy :)

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Sunday November 11, 2001

Tips To Rejuvenate Your Love Life

AFC's, AMOGs, Chick Crack, LSE, LMR, Peacocking. Welcome to the world of the seduction community. A microcosm of community who have their own abbreviations and terminology, which are, for the most part, undecipherable to the general populace. This of course is not unusual. Internet Marketers have terms such as MLM, Affiliates, Click Flipping, Downlines, Uplines, Two-tier and the list goes on.
In the realm of dating there are a number of multipliers that can improve your dating success exponentially.
There is a fascinating book entitled The Game by New York Time author Neil Strauss that looks at the underbelly of the seduction community where he lived and learns from one of the most famous seduction artists in the World - Mystery. Neil, who describes himself as far from attractive, close to bald with small and beady eyes, and a malnourished look. His plan was never to change his personality but over the course of two years his personality completely changed and his alter-ego Style became more popular than he had ever been especially with women.
Some believe that our brains still have remnants of ways of acting from caveman days when communities were typically around 50 people. If this were true then if you were to go up to a cave girl and be rejected then that could mean you being rejected by the whole tribe and your survival and replication value would be fairly low. Whether that is the case or not most of us know how scary going up to somebody you are attracted to can be - palms sweating, nervous gestures (e.g. hand wringing).
Many salesmen will have a proven script that they use to try and get a prospect to buy. Telesales teams may have many people all using the same or very similar script. When you are going to be in a situation where you are going to be naturally nervous - doesn't it make sense to have an idea of something to say? For many the most they have thought about this is "Hi, How are you?" or "Can I buy you a drink?" Certainly that is better than standing next to the woman and drooling or perhaps muttering incomprehensibly but most likely it is not going to send her heart in a flutter of emotional excitement.
Coming back to the analogy of the salesman - they have a number of closes with strange names like the boomerang close, the Columbo Close (just one more thing.). In dating you can have a number of openers to add to your arsenal. One of the terms mentioned at the start of the article was "Chick Crack" and this refers to routines involving tests, fortune-telling, psychological games, and the like. The purpose of having such a routine is to differentiate yourself from the majority of men - to pique their interest and to demonstrate higher value. Also it means you have at least one default thing to say when approaching somebody.
A telemarketer may use a script written by the company and in the same way many people use proven routines that have been developed "in the field" at least at first. Neil Strauss/Style innovated a number of his own routines that are still in use by people today. Ideally you will want to develop your own openers to help you build comfort with a member of the opposite sex but to build momentum and get comfortable initially you can begin with proven opener
A very interesting and important concept to dating can be found in the name of the book mentioned earlier - "The Game". How is dating like a game? Consider you are playing a computer game on your computer. You are playing and you lose - do you quit or do you persevere and try again? You find as you persevere you get better at the game and finish the level. Sometimes you may try multiple times to complete a level - many times progressing a little further. The same analogy can be applied to dating - it's not enough to speak to one girl and then if you don't get a date to quit.
Imagine a telemarketer who called the first customer and they hung up and they don't call anybody else for the rest of the day - they'd rightly lose their job. Many doing a job such as this may call 100 people in a day and get 0 or 1 sale. As with many things - the more you practice the better you get. In the world of dating this means putting yourself out there and honing your skills in the real world.
Does anybody comment positively on your clothing or hair? When was the last time somebody did? If it has been some time or you can't remember then it may be a very good idea to address this aspect. If you can afford it then you may wish to consider a stylist. If you wish to see the difference that can be made then you may wish to search on Google Images for "Neil Strauss" and I'm sure you will be able to see a before and after picture.
A final tip to help you in your dating adventures is to clear up a common myth many of you will have heard. A helpful friend may suggest "Just Be Yourself". This should be rephrased to "Be Your Best Self!" because most people live a life that is nowhere near the potential we have of who we really are or who we want to be. So be your best self and best of luck in your dating adventures.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Saturday November 10, 2001

Online Sports Betting for the Very First Time

I've been watching professional sports for more than 30 years now. In that time, I've listened to radio broadcasts, watched television, and tracked my favorite teams in the newspaper and on the internet.
And never have I experienced the same thrill as when I won $20 last weekend betting on my college basketball team to win. It was the first time I placed a bet online, but it won't be the last time.
First off, let me clarify I'm by no means a professional sports gambler. In fact, for the most part I don't really know enough about sports to wager much. That's why I am such a fan of online sports betting in my experience last week, online betting was convenient, easy to do, and, all things considered, a relatively inexpensive form of entertainment.
You might wonder how I even ended up betting online. I happened simply enough I was looking up my alma mater's basketball team because I wanted to see their standings from the season. I haven't really been following them that closely this year, so I was a little out of touch with their stats, game results and even the player
In fact, what I was looking for was the odds that my college ball team would win, or at least their chances of going far in the tournament. I had a running bet with a couple of buddies who cheered for different college basketball teams, and the last thing I wanted to do was commit to a bet I couldn't win.
What I discovered is that online sports wagering is big business. Depending on what you search for, you can find sportsbooks that provide odds and betting lines, some sites that review payouts, and a bunch of sites that allow you to actually place a bet online.
So, given all the options, how did I end up choosing an internet sportsbook? Well, with the relative lack of experience I have in online gambling, I was looking for the easiest, most accessible online sportsbook I could find.
I didn't really need all the bells and whistles, because I wasn't really looking for an online casino or to play online poker. I just wanted basketball odds. What I discovered is that it's incredibly easy, once on an odds place, to choose your team and place a bet. In fact, almost all the sites offered the opportunity to check sports betting odds, including football betting lines, basketball betting and even baseball betting.
And while I was understandably concerned about payment security, I can attest to the fact that the transaction happened safely, and, even better, I received my payout almost instantly after visiting the online cashier. My first online bet ever was relatively low, just in case there were any problems, but fortunately, there were none to report.
Now that I've seen how easy online sports betting can be, I'm positive I'm going to give it a try again. There are so many options, not just because you can bet on different sports such as football, hockey and baseball, but also because you can bet on different outcomes, such as point spreads and player proposition
All in all, I can see that betting online could seriously increase my level of enjoyment when it comes to watching some of my favorite sport
I will say a word of important caution however You still need to pick correctly. So if you plan to place a wager on your home team, make sure it makes sense. Otherwise, save your money for some other form of entertainment. Remember only bet what you can afford to lose.
All in all, I think the online sportsbook you choose should suit your personality. If you're a small bettor, I would suggest avoiding online sportsbooks that cater to big bettors. If you follow football closely, you shouldn't put your money with a sportsbook that doesn't regularly deal with football bets. After all, the internet sports book you choose can make a huge difference to how much you enjoy your first experience gambling online.
Good luck, and enjoy!

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
0 Comments

Friday November 09, 2001

The Real Threat To Carrier's Wireless Video Plans

Recently, I've seen increasing heat in the discussion of how mobile video will eventually be delivered to a mass market of wireless phones. The current discussion seems to be centered on the debate between two approaches Broadcast of content or Unicast of content.
In the Broadcast model, content at a pre-defined schedule is sent out over shared airwaves, and any subscribing cellphone can watch the video much like TV was 10 years ago. Broadcast in the US cases seems to be achieved by deploying a new network across the country so as not to encumber the cellular network's capacity.
The second approach, Unicast, is a way of using the 3G or better data networks to carry a streaming video to each individual subscriber. This more closely resembles the Internet video of recent years, and allows individuals to watch whatever they choose at their own schedule, but unfortunately this fills limited data network capacity with each incremental subscriber.
Vendors on the broadcast side (Qualcomm, Modio, Hiwire) are arguing that Unicast distribution over 3G doesn't scale, and if mobile video is successful, unicast video streams will clog the 3G pipes. MediaFlo is on this side, and has got Verizon and Cingular on board.
But Sprint disagrees, saying that their experience with unicast mobile video indicates that their 3G network has the capacity to meet mobile video demand. That could be interpreted as a negative comment on the demand for video, or a positive statement on their network capacity.
But even though the unicast vs. broadcast debate is an important one, it's not the real battleground for mobile video. It's even old news. I wrote about precisely this Mobile vs. Unicast paradox in 2004 neither approach held all the right cards then, nor now (the linked 2004 story explains why). Meanwhile, under the radar the real threat to the carrier's mobile video aspirations seems to get overlooked at all the conferences and boardroom strategy meetings OTA vs. Sideloaded. Not sure why, but I think it's a mix of wishful thinking, yes men, and Kool-aid drinkers.
Here's what carriers should really worry about OTA (Over The Air) vs. Sideloaded. That is, the carrier model vs. the iTunes or PVR sideload model. It's like this if I have content in my PC or PVR, which I've already paid for and chosen as desirable, why would I re-buy content over an expensive 700Kbps wireless network when I could use a free, 480Mbps network (a USB cable) to transfer it from my PC into my phone? Phones with flash memory are well-suited for this, and increasingly available. In fact, I seem to recall a rumor that Apple might even try something in this space...
The real threat to carrier business models is that consumers will learn to move video to their phones without ever passing the telco tollbooth. And Apple is about to educate the masses as to that possibility. Whether consumers buy an iPhone or not isn't the point - the point is consumers will gravitate towards the cheap, simple solutions that are known to them.
Carriers need to have strategies that take this into account, or their strategies will be doomed. For example, a carrier that invests heavily in a DVB-H solution and subsidizes handsets may find they are losing subs to a carrier like Cingular that offers an iPhone with iTunes Music Store access to cheaper content through sync. Carriers would be better advised to use their handset control advantage in the same way Apple uses iPod control - to route customers to their web-store.
Yes, that's right try to control a piece of the inevitable sync market instead of the mythical OTA market.
The OTA solution may still be worthwhile, but only for live content, timely content, and impulse content purchases. So far, the music case has shown that to be a small share of the market. Video will be different, but that's the reality-infused business model that should be considered before OTA investment is approved.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Thursday November 08, 2001

Do You Have What It Takes to Start Your Own Affiliate Marketing Business?

Owning your very own affiliate marketing business is a big step for many individuals to take in life. Yet more and more individuals are doing just that and stepping up to the challenge, which comes with being a business owner. There are many different businesses, which one can undertake and many of these businesses turn into successful ventures. Prior to starting up specifically an affiliate marketing business, it is wise to take a look at a few things to determine if you have what it takes to start your own business in the first place.
Financial Background
As with many things in life, starting a new business costs a good deal of money, both in the beginning and throughout the business venture. One should consider their financial background to determine if this is something, which they can afford. Funding a new business can be done via savings, loans or taking on financial partners. By looking at the financial situation right in the beginning, the hopeful future business owner can see whether or not this is the right time to start a new busines
Schedule and Time Availability
Time is another factor, which must be considered in relation to starting one's own business. Starting and pursuing your business will take quite a bit of time so it is crucial that one is sure they have the time to devote to their new project. Some businesses will require more time and effort than others however this is something which all individuals should take into account as the more time one puts into a project, the more success it is likely to see.
Sheer Dedication
Starting and cultivating a new business takes more than time and money. It is something, which takes sheer dedication on the part of the business owner. An individual who decides to start their own business must have this desire to pursue their occupation to the utmost of their capabilities and follow through on things from start to finish. If you have the sheer dedication, you will be more likely to turn your business into something wonderful.
Ability to Ask for Help
Lastly, one should also possess the ability to ask others for help with getting their business off the ground and running. This can be enlisting the aid of family members, friends or even paid workers. Depending on the size of the venture, it is often difficult for one individual to start a new business without asking others to pitch in and help from time to time. Whether it is asking for tax help or having family members help out with caring for the kids, there is often something which others can do to help make the business even that much more successful.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Wednesday November 07, 2001

Monaco Real Estate 2007 Gets New Land

It could be ten years before it is complete, but a new island to be built off Monte Carlo is already attracting the attention of property investor
With an area of 275,000 square metres, the island will include new apartments, hotels and retail units, with an estimated build cost of between 5 and 10 billion Euro
Of the sixteen developers who submitted proposals for the island last year, five have been chosen to submit further details, with the winning bid anticipated to be announced in the autumn.
The second smallest country in the world, Monaco has France and Italy as neighbours, and realistically can only extend her land mass by reclamation from the Mediterranean, as it did some years ago with the area known as Fontvieille, and by building island
The arrival of new property for sale in Monaco will be particularly welcome. Monaco recently overtook London as the most expensive property destination in London.
Although new properties are currently being built in Monaco, these are for local residents, and not those seeking residency in the principality.
Residents in Monaco enjoy benefits including no income tax, and is a major attraction for business men and women.
Current properties for sale in Monaco include a small 30m2 studio at 720,000 Euros, a one bedroom 75m2 apartment at 1,500,000 Euros and a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment at just over 3,000,000 Euro

Monte Carlo
The classic rules of supply and demand in the real estate market are likely to see Monaco property prices rise further in the short and medium term, according to Monaco property specialist
With one bedroom apartments in the Principality already at the million Euro level, the lack of properties coming to the market and the absence of new builds could make today's prices seem like a bargain in five years time.
'Three years ago there were six hundred properties on the market', they say, 'Now there are two hundred. Coupled with increased demand, especially from the UK, prices have been rising and could go quite a bit further if current trends continue.'
Visitors to Monaco and Monte Carlo are often surprised at the lack of apartments for sale as they can see new buildings under construction.
'The apartment buildings under construction are for local Monaco people', explain the property company, 'Rather than for the open market where anyone can buy a property. The situation is unlikely to improve in the short and medium term but the number of buyers is rising - and consequently so are the prices. Monaco now has the highest priced property in Europe.'
Other reasons for the shortage of property in Monaco include that residents are holding on to their apartments longer, enjoying the tax free status Monaco affords, and as the owners see their property rising in value holding on to it as an investment.
To maintain residency in Monaco, residents need to live in the Principality for six months a year. Winter time often sees a lot of apartments mothballed with the owners wintering in Barbados or St Lucia.

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Tuesday November 06, 2001

Preferred Tools of the Car Detailing Trade

Your tools and equipment are critical to your success. You need to know the reasons why certain tools are preferred over others.
There are two main buffer types that a detailer will use an orbital buffer and a high-speed rotary buffer. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, weights, colors and speeds.
The Orbital Polisher
This essential detailing tool was made to eliminate swirl marks, mars, or burns from being put into the paint by the common use of speed, heat, and friction. This is associated with the rotary action buffers.
The orbital concept came from the success of the classic floor polisher, which is used to bring up a high gloss shine on marble or wood flooring. The orbital polisher does not leaving swirl marks.
The orbital polisher is very effective. It creates an oscillating effect produces zero rpms and recreates the motion of hand waxing at 1700 oscillations per minute.
The Orbital Polisher
* Leaves no swirl marks
* Does not require the use of glazes
* Provides consistent results.
The High Speed Rotary Polisher
* Best choice for auto body shop to strip/prepare vehicle for new paint job
* Best for heavy duty compounding
* Is lighter in weight
* Offers variable speed options.
Both types of detailing polishers provide specific advantages when used appropriately according to the customer's need.
Skill Level in Polishing
Using the high-speed rotary requires considerable skill learned over time and experience. A beginning detailer who is still learning would not be able to manage this highly skilled machine. Furthermore, they could do considerable damage to a customer's car.
The orbital polisher, on the other hand, is perfectly safe to use for all skill levels of detailers. The orbital is weighty, but it also exacts a deeper, more brilliant shine. If you find the weight an issue you can also buy a plastic model.
Brush motors can burn out quickly with regular use, while the ball bearing capacitor motors (no brushes, no gears) won't.
The orbital polisher works great for maintenance once the car has been stripped, repainted, and compounded.
To convert your high speed and avoid the need for glazes, buy an orbital adapter kit. These will screw into top of any high speed.
Extractor Machine
A professional detail shop will use an extractor machine.
You will not exact the same results by performing an interior detail by hand with a bucket, brush, and wet/dry vacuum.
A good quality extraction machine supplies the heat, water pressure, and vacuum lift and does a professional job that delights the customer's expectation
Using an extractor, the customer is guaranteed a professional job every time!
Investing in an Extractor
Buy the best! You will receive back years of solid performance when you spend a little bit more.
A local distributor should offer better pricing than direct factory pricing in most cases. You also benefit from help with training and support.
You are more likely to be able to order parts for immediate repair so the machine won't need to be shipped out to be repaired.
Features
Heat provides maximum performance of the extractor as well as the chemicals used.
The temperature of approximately 185 degrees works best. Too much heat could destroy carpet fibers and warp rubber backing.
Heat Sources
In-line Heaters
You don't need to warm up or preheat cleaning solution. Produces vibrant heat immediately.
You must use two power cords due to the high amperage draw. You may need to plug into two separate shop circuits. This can be inconvenient if one power cord goes in one direction and the other goes across the shop to an independent circuit.
In-tank Heaters
Turn on the machine to preheat the cleaning solution.
Once the machine is warm and if it has a stainless steel tank it will work fine throughout the day. Use the preheat setting between details.
In-tank heaters draw less power and require only one cord to operate.
Using Chemicals
Extractors use fewer chemicals than manual cleaning.
Using a spray bottle, spot spray grease or heavy traffic areas for best results. Avoid putting a more aggressive cleaner through the extractor pump.
Clean your pump with a 31 solution of white vinegar and water. Run this through the machine once a month. This will keep your machine in prime condition and it will perform expertly.
Highly Efficient
Your extractor machine easily replaces cleaning by hand with a bucket and brush. You are much more efficient using this method of cleaning.
Extractor Cleaning Instructions
To begin, vacuum the interior and remove all debris. No need to get the small, lint type dirt, as the extractor removes all of the smaller, lint type particles as well as the really deep dirt.
Spray the cleaning solution throughout the area to be cleaned. Use a pre-spotter with heavy soiled stains and allow this solution to penetrate well.
Go for a small, short bristled brush to help dislodge the toughest stains and ground in dirt. Use the solution/vac to remove the dirt.
You will find that drying time is quicker using this method compared to hand vacuuming.
To make your time more efficient, use the various styles of tools available. They are made of both stainless steel and plastic.
The standard upholstery wand is used more than any other is. Use it to clean some 95% of the work on your average customer's car interior.
Use the crevice tool to clean in between seats and areas that cannot be reached with the standard upholstery tool.
The floor wand is a detailer's preferred tool. Use it for vans and in your showroom. Some shops take their show on the road using this tool and clean carpets in restaurants, offices, and other venues.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Monday November 05, 2001

Internet Search, Like Politics, Is Local

Local search is all the rage. At the 2007 Search Engine Strategies event in New York City there were presentations and exhibitors touting the importance of local search strategies and tactic
It's like the presenters and exhibitors just discovered that people are really mostly interested in finding products and services nearby.
I guess what's really going on is that finally technology, or its application, has caught up with what people really want Internet search to do for them.
I use Internet search for everything - especially local! We haven't had a copy of the Yellow Pages (or white pages) in our apartment since we got high-speed acces
We Google directions to the Gap across town. If a movie is playing in Brooklyn we Google directions to the theater and buy the tickets online - so we can get in after we make the trek.
As a user we know all we need to know about local search. We type in what we want and where we want to get it and bingo - here it is and a map's included. It just doesn't get any better than that.
So, what's the big deal for business owners when it comes to local search in 2007?
It's leveling the field - putting the Main Street Companies we love doing business with right up there with their big box rival
How's that possible you ask? Well, here are three simple ways to maximize your over all search results using a local search focu
Differentiation
What makes your company different? What are the local aspects of your business? That's how you differentiate yourself from your competitors. Local search ads and placement provide the opportunity.
Would you rather eat spaghetti at a local franchise of a national chain or a locally owned Italian restaurant that's supported the community since 1963 - who supplies pizza for the area football team parents night and whose grand daughter won the state's citizenship award competition?
We do business with our friends. Local search provides us with the information we need to do so.
Reach Buyers When They're Ready To Buy
Let's say I was looking for a health club membership to begin addressing my 2004 New Year's resolution. OK, so I've put it off a bit - but now I may be ready, so what's my number one criterion?
Location. It has to be as close to me as possible - so I'll be more likely to show up.
I may have been introduced to a certain company via their TV commercials. In our many walks around the various communities in New York I may have passed dozens of their health clubs. I may even know people who have a membership at one of them and swear by it.
But if I'm going to join one - it has to be in my neighborhood.
So I go online, do a local search, and find that they have a brand new heath club only a few blocks away. They even have printable coupons for various membership types. I'm doomed - my last really good excuse is gone.
Leverage All Your Touch Points
If your online goal is to simply drive people physically into your place of business you can provide them with directions to your place, a map, when you're open, etc. with your local search strategy.
Perhaps more importantly you can offer your customers additional options for doing business with you - which they did not know about.
Let's say you sell cement to contractors and homeowners. Your customers get it delivered to the job site or in their driveway - most of the time. No one ever comes by, even though you have people working there twelve hours a day seven days a week.
Local search can be used to tell people that you're open in case they need to pick up a few extra bags of Quickrete over the weekend. Or they can place an order online or on your 24 hour a day voicemail for next day delivery.
Effective local search tactics reaches local searchers when they are ready to buy - with every way that it is possible for them to buy from you.
At the Search Engine Strategies event the experts told us to adopt a search marketing strategy that has global reach (hey, you never know), regional implications, and connects with our local buying audience.
How is that possible? Let's take a top down look.
National Campaign
For most companies this is best left to their manufacturers. Let General Motors create the buzz, show the new models, pitch the extraordinary value, and the environmental friendliness of their vehicle
Let them do national TV and spend a bazillion dollars on search engine optimization, just push them to link to your company while they're at it. Hey, it's their brand so let them do the branding.
You spend your money and energy with actions that result in sales for you.
Expanded regional Area Keyword Search
There is an Auto Mall on I71 North of Cincinnati. I bet the dealers there sell most of their vehicles to folks who live north of downtown all the way up maybe 25 to 40 miles north of where the Mall is located.
People living a little farther north of that line may turn right when they get on I71 and head toward Columbus. People south of downtown Cincinnati cross the bridge into Northern Kentucky. On the east side of Cincinnati there is at least one huge Auto Mall siphoning off potential business as well.
Out of area local search can target these buyers telling them to come by your dealership for a comparison before they buy. If they do you guarantee to make it worth their time.
Tell them how long it will take on I275 from different parts of the metro area. And if they buy a new vehicle you'll give them an extra $500 off if they live more than so many miles away. You get the idea.
What's it worth to your business to increase your traditional marketing area by another 25 miles in every direction?
Local Relevance Promotions
Don't forget the importance of dominating the market you're already in. A local search marketing strategy will help you solidify your base with a reminder that you're still there.
As a local business owner you are sought out by every community endeavor for your support. Local search provides an opportunity improve on your local relevance - why people should support your business. Local search gives you a chance to remind people of your commitment to them.
As with the Italian restaurant - I'll pay more money for new tires if given the chance to buy them from the nice people who sent the local high school band to New Orleans to play in the Sugar Bowl parade - even if it was a decade ago.
Compare that to saving a few bucks from a giant store where I am just a number and actually had to be there before 10am to qualify for the special price anyway.
Here are three things to keep in mind when considering your local search marketing strategy.
What do you really want?
How far can you haul gravel and still make money? How far can your service technicians travel and still at least break even? Do you simply want to dominate your traditional selling area or do you see local search as a way to gradually and systematically expand you company into a wider and wider area? Knowing this will help you when it comes to budgeting the resources required.
Who's willing to help you?
Will you highly respected manufacturer link to you in a way that helps raise your status with the search engines? Or will other companies join you in an effort to build your presence online collectively? Consider the Auto Mall - there must be a dozen of

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Sunday November 04, 2001

Self Defense - It's About Instinct, Not Violent Response

Violent crime increases annually and is reaching a record high this year already. What motivates criminals to become violent and what can you do to protect yourself?
Police officers are overwhelmed these days with duties beyond what they could have imagined fifty years ago. Response times are very slow and emergency calls have to be ranked by severity so that officers can take them in a listed order.
Officers today also have to be street smart lawyers, for lack of better words. They spend more time trying to be politically correct and handle every situation with kid's gloves as not to offend anyone or face disciplinary from agencies that do not have the officer's interest in mind.
I can attest that it is beyond necessary for you to learn to protect yourself. It is not likely that there will be someone to come and rescue you in a very rapid manner or quick enough to prevent a violent crime.
Self defense is more than learning karate or carrying a can of heavy duty pepper spray. Effective self defense requires attention and a conscious thought process. You must learn to harness instincts and pay attention to your surroundings.
I see so many people that are preoccupied with their own personal space and personal business that they forget that there is an entire world functioning around them. I see the lady with the cell phone stuck to her ear and not paying one bit of attention to the dark area where she parks her car. I assure you, the cell phone cannot save you.
I am disturbed by the gentleman that is too busy reading the newspaper on the subway to even notice what is going on around him. His eyes scan stories but never glance up to see anything that is happening about him. This activity is what criminals call "stupid bait". People strip themselves of the ability to utilize instincts by wrapping themselves up in their current task.
Learn to pay attention. This is the first and biggest step in self defense. It is better to avoid a confrontation or problem than have to combat your way out of one. You can achieve this with a bit of focus and perception.
If you sense something that bothers you, investigate. Do not sink deeper into the sports page or sink into your cell phone call with averted eyes. Criminals love weakness. Criminals operate like the predator within the animal kingdom. They seek out prey that appears frightened, not alert and oblivious to the world circulating around them.
An animal demonstrates weakness, fear or lack of attention, he becomes dinner. It is as simple as that. You may be scared. Do not act scared. You may be weaker. Do not act weak. You may not be paying attention. Pay attention. This is legitimate self defense. Karate, judo carrying a concealed weapon are all methods of protection for a last resort situation. Do not let it come to that.
Eye contact is vital in survival. Criminals are natural cowards. They seek the easy victory and prey on the weak victim. They do not like to be noticed or observed. Eye contact will strip them of the little bit of courage that they have mustered to commit the crime that they desire to commit.
Pay attention to what is going on around you. If you cannot focus on the world around you while talking on the cell phone. Save the conversation for a safe zone like your home. Or, teach yourself to consciously look around you when talking.
Observation enhances instinct. We all have instincts, but we allow them to be repressed. Instincts trigger gut feelings that are critical for survival. Harness your instincts. The method to doing this is simply by paying attention. Look around you. Read your paper. Talk on the phone. But, pay attention.
When entering an area that could pose a threat such as a dark parking area, a rough neighborhood or anyplace that gives you that feeling, it's time to pay attention. As humans, we grow comfortable in places and areas that we frequent. Dangerous areas become routine so we bring the stress meter down a bit. We become complacent.
Complacency is natural. Do not worry about that. However, recognize when this is happening. That requires attention. Upon recognizing this, you must mock your instinctive nature. The power of instinct can be mocked by practicing.
To mock your instinct of awareness and survival, you must do the things you do when entering a danger zone for the first time. Look around. Pay attention. Notice things. Remember things. Observe people. Notice who looks comfortable. Pay attention to those that appear uncomfortable. Awareness in itself is obvious to the predator. They would prefer to seek out the prey that is not aware or is so overcome with fear that they avert their eyes and cower within themselve
The fear will come. That is a good thing. Harness it. Be scared but do not demonstrate the traits of fear by hiding your eyes or turning away from the thing that is provoking fear. Square your shoulders, keep your eyes level. Keep your hands out of your pockets. Do not fidget. Do not preoccupy yourself with trying to suppress fear. That is foolish and exactly what the "bad guy" wants.
The above tips will detour the majority of criminal violence. You must face your predator. Do not challenge, but do not demonstrate the traits of the prey. You will be fine and get through these things. You will also build character. Take care.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Saturday November 03, 2001

Getting a College Degree Online Counts

Many working adults and professionals interested in getting ahead in their careers consider getting a college degree online. After all, whether you are working towards your first degree or towards a second, or even third degree, going online to do your schoolwork has many benefits. It will give you the opportunity to pursue an exciting new career.
Students in online classrooms often enjoy lower tuition fees, since schools do not have to charge for classroom use. Plus, some students enjoy using online class materials that save them money on textbooks. Students who pursue their education online also have complete control of their school schedules. They can work when they can, and still pursue a family life or a full-time job while they work towards their degree. Students don't have to move across the country to a cramped dorm room to get a higher education they can simply work online in their own home
Getting a college degree online allows students who otherwise could not pursue higher education to pursue a degree. Since the online option disrupts a student's life very minimally, a determined student can pursue a higher education while also holding down a job or raising a family. This makes an online degree the perfect option for someone thinking of entering the workforce or changing careers. No matter where you live, you can pursue an education if you have access to a computer and have the willingness to learn. Many online schools and courses even have many of the same benefits as in-classroom education. They offer financial help for students, access to libraries, and even one-on-one virtual time with professor
Despite all these advantages, though, many would-be students worry. Some students have misconceptions that hold them back from pursuing a better quality education. For example, some students are under the mistaken impression that getting a college degree online is somehow less prestigious than getting a degree from a classroom-based learning environment. This myth may be perpetuated by some less-than-honest academic options online. After all, the Internet is home to diploma mills, which simply send fake diplomas to anyone who applies for them. Cyberspace also boasts some so-called schools that offer degrees that require almost no work. It's important to remember that while the Internet may have its scam artists, though, there are many legitimate opportunities for students online.
In fact, many of the top schools across the country offer online degree programs and options for students. Virtually all employers and schools are more than happy to hire someone with a quality degree, whether that degree was earned in the classroom or online. The trick is to pursue a quality degree that is recognized by employers and schools alike.
Students interested in pursuing a college degree online should not let myths stop them. There is no difference between pursuing a degree on campus or in cyberspace. However, students interested in the online option should do a little extra research to ensure that the degree they earn will really help them get ahead.
First, students should look for online education options only from accredited schools. Accredited means that a school meets certain requirements and is recognized as a learning institution. Secondly, students should research a school's reputation and should look for a degree that offers good benefits. For example, students will want to make sure that professors conducting online courses are respected in their field and are available for help when needed. Students should also make sure that courses are challenging and require assignments and tests.
Finally, a good school should offer resources and help for students. This can include scholarships, online learning resources, and other assistance. The more a school and a degree offers, the better the chance that a student pursuing a college degree online will have a good learning experience and a bright future.

Posted by devasia at 2:44 PM
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Friday November 02, 2001

Tax Advantages of Starting a Daycare in Your Home

You are in the childcare business. Now what? You must decide a number of pressing questions. How to organize my business? What forms do I need to keep track of? What logs of information do I need to keep? Why does this all seem so confusing? What planet do accountants and IRS agents come from anyways?
Take a deep breath and we will try to create some simple rules to add some sanity to the confusion. I'm going to start with a couple of advantages to running a child care center from your personal home and will address some of the tricks to record keeping in its own special chapter.
Why is child care a business like no other? You are allowed to follow your own special rules not allowed by any other business run out of your home.
See the IRS is not all bad. Oh my, I did just say that?
You are allowed to count all the areas in your home used regularly for your business and not just those used exclusively for childcare when determining the space in the home that you can deduct. You are the only business that is allowed this treatment.
Here comes the real meat and potatoes, the forms and code sections. (Ugh.)
The most important calculation that you need to understand is a formula called the Time-Space Calculation. This is the calculation that allows you to make your personal expenses that no one else can deduct, as business expenses. In order to do this the IRS demands that you report these expenses separately on form 8829.
First we need to determine the space component of the calculation. Step one is to draw a floor plan of your home. Notice I said floor plan not blueprint. We are trying to determine the square-footage of your rooms a percentage of your home and are not trying to rebuild the home! Each room is labeled one of three titles 100% Personal, 100% business, shared. The IRS has ruled that for a room to be counted as shared it must only be used regularly for business, not exclusively. Each year you will need to verify the space component with a new floor plan of the home.
The second component of the calculation is the time component. This seems pretty straight forward. At first you may just count the hours when children are present but you would be missing out on all the other time spent in you home working on your business. These hours include time spent preparing for the day, record keeping, and appointments with parents, and cleaning up from the day. Once you have determined the space percentage and the time spent percentage you simply multiply the two percentages together and you are set to go.
Okay. Now what?
Direct vs. Indirect Expenses
The easiest way to define direct business expenses is to call them expenses that you simply wouldn't have if you hadn't decided to start a daycare. Advertising, Liability Insurance, Toys, Art Supplies, etc. all fall into this category.
Indirect expenses are defined as those shared by you as an individual and your business. Rent, Mortgage Interest, Real Estate Taxes, Utilities, Household supplies, Home Owners Insurance, Repairs and Maintenance, etc. fall into this category. The indirect expenses are put through the time-space calculation and the direct expenses are put directly to the business tax return.
The last wrinkle that you need to deal with is to determine what a capital asset is verses an expense. Assets are things that you own that will last longer than one year. For example, your house, car, furniture, stove, refrigerator, microwave, are all assets. These items must be depreciated, expensed over a period of time, not expensed in the current year.
You then need to determine if the item is shared or directly used by the business. Your house is used jointly. A daycare van used specifically for child transportation is a day care specific capital expense. The jointly used assets must be depreciated and applied to the time space calculation. This manual does not allow enough time for an in-depth discussion of depreciation rules. Hopefully, however, you have a general idea that there are different expenses and assets for your business which need to be accounted for.
Startup Costs
Startup costs are the expenses associated with starting a business, both direct and capital, made prior to the actual start of operations. These costs are treated differently than normal expenses. The IRS does not want to see two years of startup expenses and no income on your income tax return. Therefore you are allowed to expense the first $5,000 of expenses in your first year of operation and any expenses over that amount are capitalized and amortized (divided equally) over sixty months. Examples of startup costs are Legal and professional fees, supplies, toys, day care furniture, license fees, education classes, etc. Capital costs might be room additions to bring the house in compliance, fence in the back play area and the like.
Choice of Business Entity
The type of entity that you choose to operate your business can have significant ramifications in the future. Record keeping stays an important component regardless of which entity you choose. We will address that in its own special chapter. A word about insurance would be appropriate at this time. You should always maintain insurance on your business no matter which entity you choose. I will make the assumption that you are starting your business for the long term. With that assumption your business will need to be protected and as such will need liability insurance, just like your home needs home owners insurance. You are attempting to protect the source of your future income from los
Now back to the subject at hand.
The moment you as an individual start to engage in providing a service or providing a product to others you are engaging in a business. This business can be regulated or unregulated the IRS does not care for tax purposes. Your state licensing board obviously does care and you should follow all appropriate rules in your state.
Sole Proprietor
The default type of organization is the sole proprietor. This is the easiest to form, (no cost) but could be the costliest in the long run. The sole proprietor is fully liable for the debts and obligations of the business. The argument that I hear from clients is I truly don't have own anything right now, why should I be concerned? If you are taken to court and a judgment is rendered against your business, it will be applied against all your current personal and business assets now and in the future.
Secondly, the net income of your business is treated as a wage. You are both the employee and the employer. Most employees are unaware that the employer matches an equal amount of their social security tax. This amounts to 7.65% from the employee and 7.65% from the employer totaling 15.3% on the first $90,000 of wage (adjusted annually upwards). This tax is assessed over and above any federal and state taxe
Single Member Limited Liability Company.
As the name suggests, this is a form of an entity that will limit you from the full liability of the sole proprietorship. The costs are nominal $130.00 in the state of Wisconsin plus the attorney fees if you require assistance. The taxes are exactly the same as the sole proprietor, so the only difference is the peace of mind of the limited liability.
Partnership
Partnerships are two or more people organized to operate a business. There is no limited liabil

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Thursday November 01, 2001

Asbestos Litigation in California

California asbestos laws have changed over the past few years, showing more favor toward the side of companies that have violated California asbestos laws prior to the year 1980.
Asbestos litigation has taken on a whole new meaning as lawyers have had to take on this new specialty and grow into asbestos lawyers. What does all this mean for California residents in need of asbestos litigation?
It means that the lawsuit being filed by California based asbestos lawyers are under a more scrutinous attack, which mean the time to enter into an asbestos lawsuit in the state of California is now.
Asbestos lawyers recommended a consultation for any individual who has been exposed needlessly to asbestos, even if they have not yet been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, the cancer specifically caused by asbestos exposure.
Filing asbestos litigation cases prior to determining that the exposed victim is ill is not uncommon. This is done to protect the rights of the victim while the California asbestos laws allow for a tolerable and reasonable settlement, as California asbestos laws change often enough to complicate cases in the future.
Of course, victims with open and shut cases will always have some favor in the eyes of California asbestos laws, but open and shut cases are harder and harder to come by. Most asbestos litigation isn't as simple as it seems. Often people were employed by more than one company within their working lifetime and proving that the asbestos exposure that is prompting the asbestos litigation came from any one particular company is not always simple.
Many companies who have experienced asbestos litigation understand the penalties for intentionally or negligently exposing their employees to asbestos, and have chosen unscrupulous routes to avoid ending up in any additional asbestos litigation.
California asbestos law is complex and requires an expert to help decipher it. It is important for those considering pursuing asbestos litigation to get the professional counsel that an asbestos lawyer can offer.
Asbestos lawyers are up to date on all the changes in California asbestos law and can help those who were needlessly exposed to asbestos understand their rights within the realms of the ever changing California asbestos laws. Naturally, the entire state of affairs is completely unfair, and people need to understand that while companies may be empathetic to a victim's plight, most companies by now have changed hands, or at least management, and are now also trying to protect the rights of the current workforce, even if that means allowing a Mesothelioma victim flounder in their pain, suffering, and exorbitant medical bills.
This is of course unfair to those who worked tirelessly for these companies in the past, and it is a fine ethical line for the companies of the present to find a middle ground to protect all employees, past, present, and even future.
California asbestos laws are not the only asbestos laws which have undergone change over the past few years. Asbestos lawyers all over the country are having to fight harder for victim's rights. However, in most cases, these victims are still receiving fair judgments and settlement offers, at least for now.
There have been asbestos litigation cases that have been filed on behalf of those who are not sick and may or may not become ill in the future, however the threat that asbestos exposure brings with it is often enough to enter into asbestos litigation. It takes a talented asbestos lawyer, one who is on top of every change in California asbestos laws, to complete these premature examples of asbestos litigation, however the claims are still very legitimate.
The best advice an asbestos lawyer can offer anyone wondering if they qualify for asbestos litigation under the current California asbestos laws is to receive a consultation. Most asbestos lawyers will in fact meet with a client with a potential claim free of charge in order to determine if the information provided is adequate for entering into asbestos litigation.
A consultation can place the minds of potential and actual victims at ease as they attempt to make decisions about their future. Asbestos litigation is a complex field, and not every average attorney can truly handle the specified laws that relate to asbestos cases.
Just as a victim of road rage would not hire an asbestos lawyer, victims of asbestos exposure should not hire an attorney not equipped to handle the intricate California asbestos laws associated with asbestos exposure in the state of California. It is of course, common sense.

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