Advice for the turn of the calendar-2018

Blog quote #1186... 
"Be at war with your vices and at peace with your neighbors, and let every year find you a better man." -Ben Franklin-  

I like this as it puts emphasis and accountability square on us, the readers. Many times we want everyone and everything else to get better, while we ignore the one thing each of us have the most control of--ourselves. 

We say...let's all make 2018 one of our best years ever. After all, why the heck not?

That's my view.. what say you?

Get to it!

Blog quote #1185... 
"Whatever you want to do, do it now. There are only so many tomorrows." -Michael Landon-  

Thank you, from the man who brought us so many memories from 'Little House on the Prairie.' And we believe his life on earth ended prematurely, so perhaps at minimum, we can learn from him...

That's my view.. what say you?

Here's something to Hang Onto...

Blog quote #1184... 
"In the coldest February, as in every other month, in every other year, the best thing to hang onto in this world...is each other." -Linda Ellerbee-  

Puts priorities in clear perspective...

That's my view.. what say you?

Goals, projects, and purpose--something to look forward to

Blog quote #1183... 
"People who say that life is not worthwhile are really saying that they themselves have no personal goals which are worthwhile. Get yourself a goal worth working for. Better yet, get yourself a project. Always have something ahead of you to look forward to." -Maxwell Maltz, plastic surgeon,writer -  

And while at it, we suggest everyone spend some time finding their purpose, if not done already. After all, no purpose, no real meaning of life.

That's my view.. what say you?

Do busy people live longer? Hmm...

Blog quote #1182... 
"I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live." -George Bernard Shaw -  

Sounds a bit like an oxymoron at first, but upon further thought, appears accurate. It seems those who keep busy at all times have an uncanny amount of energy, as well as ability and drive to take on still more, and get things done. 

It's almost like the line  'We have no idea of our human capabilities until we push beyond what our initial limits appear to be.' Slackers  appear tired quite frequently, while the busy people, are like Energizer bunnies. Coincidence? I think not...

That's my view.. what say you?

Dog wisdom...

Blog quote #1182... 
"A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down." -Robert Benchley -  

Aah...the wisdom we can extrapolate from a dog. It's truly quite amazing.

That's my view.. what say you?

Receiving and Giving...

Blog quote #1181... 
"What a child doesn't receive, he can seldom later give." -PD James -  

Hmm... Love? Compassion? Positive reinforcement?  Probably some truth to James' comments here. 

What popped into your head when you first read this?

That's my view.. what say you?

Wait--before you do this...

Blog quote #1180... 
"Before you act, listen. Before you react, think. Before you spend,earn. Before you criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try." -Ernest Hemingway -  

Six incredibly solid pieces of advice, power packed into 24 words! We suggest people  give these a shot. 

That's my view.. what say you?

How to LEARN effectively...

Blog quote #1179... 
"I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So, if I'm going to learn, I must do so by listening." -Larry King-  

This extremely astute comment, from one of the most successful and longest running TV host interviewers, of all time. Something for every single one of us, to be mindful of. 

That's my view.. what say you?

Another 'Two-fer'... 2 quotes from same author

Blog quote #1177 and 1178... 

Today another two-fer from the same author

Quote #1177
"The butterfly counts not days but moments, and has time enough."-Rabindranath Tagore, Indian writer and artist-   

We all have more time that we say. Everyone is 'busy.' Usually we can make time...if we truly want to. The butterfly shows us this.

Quote #1178

"A mind all logic is like a knife all blade. It makes the hand bleed that uses it." -Rabindranath Tagore-

Need to have some emotion mixed in with the logic of the brain. A healthy balance of both is recommended for optimum performance.

That's my view.. what say you?

Inflation and Fast Spending...

Blog quote #1176... 
"A dollar may not go as far as it used to but for what it lacks in distance, it makes up in speed." -Tim Smith-   

Some monetary humor for your weekend...

That's my view.. what say you?

The problem with Stretching the Truth...

Blog quote #1175... 
"When you stretch the truth, watch out for the snap back." -Ms Terry Quotist-   

Like a rubber band, be careful of the unpleasant rebound that comes with untruths, lies and misleading statements. Always best to be honest, and that way you don't need to have a superb memory of what you told this person, and that fellow, and this one. 

People like dealing with straight shooters. Tell it like it is!

That's my view.. what say you?

Sailing through life's storms...

Blog quote #1174... 
"We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails." -Unknown-  

More statements discussing the power of attitude. While we cannot control the hands that life deals us, we can however, determine just how we will react to what comes our way. And that attitude about how to deal-- makes all the difference in the world. 

It's called a choice, and each of us get them and face them; in fact hundreds per day. As the old saying goes- just CHOOSE to make lemonade with the lemons that life drops off in your grocery basket. Funny thing is, that lemonade often tastes extremely sweet, because of our choice of attitude!  

That's my view...what say you?

Great point on CARING...

Blog quote #1173... 
"In the end, there doesn't have to be anyone who understands you. There just has to be someone who wants to." -Robert Brault-  

Not sure who Mr Brault is, but this is the fourth or fifth quote we've LOVED from him. 

This message is simple; it's all about CARING. It's about TRYING. It's about giving a hoot. Which will always stand out from the crowd, since it's so few and far between.  

For those who care, please keep doing so. It truly makes a GIGANTIC difference!

That's my view...what say you?

Getting INVOLVED in Life...

Blog quote #1172... 
"Maybe life isn't about avoiding the bruises. Maybe it's about collecting the scars to prove we showed up for it."  - J.Simpson-  

Enough with going through the motions. Lets all get out of the 'stands' and get into the game. Start showing up. Participating with others. Getting involved. Passions ablaze. 

When we start living life like that, everyone will know. Including ourselves!

That's my view...what say you?

What do we Really KNOW?...

Blog quote #1171... 
"You know what you know. You know what you don't know. What's scary is...you don't know what you don't know."  - Donald Rumsfeld-  

Let that one gurgle around in your brain for a bit. Fascinating and alarming at the same time. Hmm...

That's my view...what say you?

On Friends/ Friendships...

Blog quote #1170... 
"Sometimes friendship is about appreciating each other's differences. It's about who walked into your life said, "I'm here for you, and proved it."- J.Boutagy-  

As we've talked about before at the Think Tank, the word friend can be very loosely interpreted. Many acquaintances, few real true, solid friends. Those that are, are worth their weight in gold. 

Here's to the top shelf friends that are there for you, and  do have a proven track record.

That's my view...what say you?

Another Powerful Lesson from our Canine friends

Blog quote #1169... 
"A dog owns nothing, yet seldom is dissatisfied."- Irish Proverb-  

Another one of those deceivingly short quotes, whose importance and relevancy could slip by easily if not given the respect and time to truly ponder. Take a moment to absorb what this message is trying to convey. 

Quite powerful.

That's my view...what say you?

On Excellence...

Blog quote #1168... 
"You are what you repeatedly do. Therefore, excellence should be a habit, not an act."- Aristotle-  

This one speaks for itself. Provide excellence--in all you do. Period.

That's my view...what say you?

What do Coats and Good Friends have in common?

Blog quote #1167... 
"My coat and I live comfortably together. It has assumed all my wrinkles, does not hurt me anywhere, has moulded itself on my deformities, and is complacent to all my movements, and I only feel its presence because it keeps me warm. Old coats and old friends are the same thing."- Victor Hugo, writer 1802-1885-  

Love this sageness from a man who was born over 200 years ago.Here's hoping that you have a handful of good friends, and faithful favorite coats!  

That's my view...what say you?

On Being Independent...

Blog quote #1166... 
"In all things, be willing to listen to people around you. None of us is really smart enough to go it alone." -John Clendenin, teacher-   

While some of us get in that superhero mindset at times, the facts are as Mr. Clendenin  states above. As good as we are, everyone needs help. No one on this planet is independent. 

Thanks for the quality reminder, John.  

That's my view...what say you?

When seeking good ideas; do this...

Blog quote #1165... 
"If you are seeking creative ideas, go out walking. Angels whisper to a man when he goes for a walk.." -Raymond Inman-   

Personal experience will say we agree with this statement. Worst case scenario- you get out with nature, some fresh air and a wee bit of exercise. Even if the angels are being  stingy, there's plenty of other benefits to go along with a gentle stroll.

With that stated, keep your ears and mind open. The angels like to delight...

That's my view...what say you?

Who are the happiest people?

Blog quote #1164... 
"The happiest people are not the ones who have everything. The happiest people are those who are thankful for what they DO have." -Ruth Urban 1914-2009 -   

There is something about gratitude and appreciation that gives us a warm heart. On the flip side, those always looking to attain more have this tired feeling of no matter how much is accumulated, it's never satisfying. Not good enough. That gets mentally draining. 

We suggest to give thanks for what we have, versus dwelling on what's not in our possession. And then, you will possess one of the greatest things to hold- that of joy and contentment. Aahhhhh... 

That's my view...what say you?

Life's Best Prize

Blog quote #1163... 
"The best prize life offers is the chance to work hard, at work worth doing." -Teddy Roosevelt-   

Something refreshing about diving into work that you are excited about, proud of, and  willing to stamp your signature on. Work that matters and makes a difference in people's lives. 

Perhaps, even go so far as calling it exhilarating? 

That's my view...what say you?

On Making Comebacks...

Blog quote #1162... 
"Don't allow any setback to become bigger than your comeback." -Christine Caine, author and speaker-   

A truly profound and unique way of saying 'When you fall, just dust yourself off and get back up.' 

Hardships, failures and disappointments are inevitable. Just use them as learning posts and stepping stones to come back bigger, better, stronger, and smarter. 

Attention...March! 

That's my view...what say you?

What is COURAGE?

Blog quote #1161... 
"Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway." -John Wayne-   

Who knew? 

Even famous tough guy American legendary cowboy hero John Wayne was even frightened and had reserves. He's human. He does, and so does every single one of us.

But as Wayne suggests...'Jump in and face your fear.' That is the best way to not only battle, but WIN against fear. Saddle up!

That's my view...what say you?

On Being Wrong ( it's OK!)

Blog quote #1160... 
"Don't ever be afraid to admit you were wrong. It's like saying you're wiser today than you were yesterday." -Ann Landers -   

What a superb way to look at this. Drop the ego's, admit we don't have all the answers to everything in life, and acknowledge we can always get smarter and learn from our fellow humans.  

Admitting our faults and incorrectness is actually a great strength, and sign of humbleness. And who doesn't love a humble human?

That's my view...what say you?

Best thing you can do for another...

Blog quote #1159... 
"The greatest good you can do for another is not just share your riches-but to reveal to him, his own."-Benjamin Disraeli -   

Let people know how good they are, or compliment them on their talent/ good works. The world is very lopsided, in favor of critiques versus praise. More of the latter, please.

That's my view...what say you?

On Older Wisdom...

Blog quote #1158... 
"Before you contradict an old man, my fair friend, you should endeavor to understand him."-George Santayana -   

We often are quick to add our two cents or share what we 'know,' or think we know. It appears the author is simply suggesting that there is likely some years of wisdom and information behind the elder person's statements and that needs to be respected. My how much we can learn, from those who have gone before us.  

Good rule of thumb: When younger people are around older people, talk less and listen more- to the wisdom of the elder folk. Hmm...

That's my view...what say you?

How to get SMARTER...

Blog quote #1157... 
"If we would have new knowledge, we must get a world of new questions."-Susan K Langer -   

Keep asking. Keep learning.

Onward...

That's my view...what say you?

A reminder--of the GOOD in the world

Blog quote #1156... 
"It does no harm just once in a while, to acknowledge, that the whole country is not in flames and that there are people in the country besides politicians, entertainers, and criminals."-Charles Kuralt -   

In other words, there are plenty of good folks out there doing admirable things for the world. Although bad news blankets the airwaves daily, there's plenty of good going on; the media just chooses not to talk about it. 

Thanks for the wonderful reminder, Charles.

That's my view...what say you?

The sadness of losing an elderly person...

Blog quote #1155... 
"When an old man dies, a library burns to the ground."-African proverb -   

Excellent comment here that references just how much wisdom is collected in a person's life. Always sad to see when wise people leave the planet, knowing all the experiences, trials, and situations they have been through-- along with the knowledge and smarts acquired with the endurement--leave with them. 

Respect the elderly and the wise. They won't be here forever thus we should enjoy their company, stories, and knowledge.

That's my view...what say you?

On truly LIVING life...

Blog quote #1154... 
"Will you look back on life and say "I wish I had" or  "I'm glad I did."-Zig Ziglar -   

Zig is the best! We believe he is asking in a different way--are you really diving into life and living it to the fullest, or, are you methodically or begrudgingly just going through the motions?

Regardless of your answer, the rest of your life starts today. If needed  there's time to adjust your course.    

That's my view...what say you?

What is a teacher...?

Blog quote #1153... 
"A teacher is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way." -J.C. Maxwell-    

Teachers learn--act--instruct. Teachers absorb, then do, then show or pass it on.

Thank you, all teachers out there. We appreciate you!     

That's my view...what say you?

Know what you are dealing with...

Blog quote #1152... 
"You can't expect an empty bag to stand straight up." -Ken Blanchard-    

We've always been taught to give people, the benefit of the doubt. Also, give humans high expectations to live up to and many times, they will respond accordingly. 

With that stated, sometimes you have to face facts and know what you are dealing with. You got what you got. Some people just don't have it nor do they care a whisker to give any exerted effort. When faced with this, act accordingly and move on...     

That's my view...what say you?

Making a difference...

Blog quote #1151... 
"It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to make a difference." -Tom Brokaw-    

We believe Mr Brokaw is exaggerating a bit when he says it's an easy task to make money. His theme likely stresses that while millions of people make money every day( some great and some pocket change) very few are those who are making a difference in the world. 

He might even be hinting, that all should think a bit more on how we can have a significant impact on others. Certainly worth pondering... 

That's my view...what say you?

On Cynicism...

Blog quote #1150... 
"Cynicism is knowing the price of everything and the value of nothing." -Oscar Wilde-    

Wow, seems quite accurate. Any dissenters?  

That's my view...what say you?

Use it or lose it...?

Blog quote #1149... 
"Iron rusts from disuse; stagnant water loses it's purity and in cold weather becomes frozen; even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind."  -Leonardo DaVinci-    

Use it or lose it. If you rest you rust. Things in motion tend to stay in motion. An active mind, is a lively mind. 

For best results, keep challenging the brain as often as possible. It's an amazing organ that can handle far more than we perceive!  

That's my view...what say you?

Right and Wrong and ' having peace'

Blog quote #1148... 
"Be selective with your battles. Sometimes peace is better than being right."  -unknown-    

This is true wisdom, at its finest!  Class dismissed for today.

That's my view...what say you?

On Visions and Success...

Blog quote #1147... 
"Once you surrender to your vision, success begins to chase you."  - Robin Sharma-    

Isn't that something? Find your passion, create a vision, then let that vision lead you to   your dreams and desires. 

It all starts with an idea. Add some planning, pour in some hard work, and voila! You are on your way!  

That's my view...what say you?

On hearsay...

Blog quote #1146... 
"Eyesight is more powerful than hearsay."  - Icelandic Proverb-    

It appears this proverb is suggesting for us not to just listen to gossip as gospel. See. Witness.Verify. 

Sounds like a good tip from the Icelanders...

That's my view...what say you?

On respect for soldiers...

Blog quote #1145... 
"A man who is good enough to give his blood for his country is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards."  - President Theodore Roosevelt 1903-    

God bless our soldiers and their families! Let's all thank them and give them the respect they deserve and have earned!

That's my view...what say you?

Great Lesson from the Boy Scouts...

Blog quote #1144... 
"A Scout smiles and whistles under all circumstances." -Robert Baden-Powell,(1857-1941) Boy Scouts Founder-    

Steady as she goes. The scout is taught to keep a level head at all times, and not get too excited when things are going well, and not get too depressed when headwinds are experienced.  

One of many lessons of value we can all learn from the Boy Scouts. Good stuff!

That's my view...what say you?

Another tip, to live a very happy life

Blog quote #1143... 
"For the happiest life, days should be rigorously planned and nights left open to chance." -Mignon McLaughlin, writer-    

We took this quote to combine planning out life but with moderation. Leave a little room for some occasional fun and spontaneity. 

Too much of anything not only becomes boring and predictable, but also dulls the mind. Sprinkle in some mystery and creativity, for best results.  

That's my view...what say you?

A message for the 'haters'

Blog quote #1142... 
"Hustle until your haters ask if you're hiring." -Steve Maraboli-    

How good is this message? 

That's my view...what say you?

The Treasures of being Courteous

Blog quote #1141... 
"Nothing is ever lost by courtesy. It is the cheapest of pleasures, costs nothing, and conveys much. It pleases him who gives and receives and thus, like mercy, is twice blessed." -Erastus Wiman-    

Not much more to add here other than two questions...

Why  don't we all practice courtesy more often? And how did we get away from it and move toward rudeness and general cluelessness- which are both repugnant?  

That's my view...what say you?

A strange phenomenom with Income and Expenses

Blog quote #1140... 
"Expenditure rushes to meet income." -Cyril Northcote Parkinson-    

Isn't that something that no matter how much money one makes, the expenses seem to keep pace? Why is that?  

Make more equals a license to spend more? What's wrong with a little savings?  Great observation here by Cyril.  Hmm... 

That's my view...what say you?

On constantly pushing to the Limit...

Blog quote #1139... 
"You will soon break the bow if you keep it always stretched." -Phaedrus, 15 B.C.-50 A.D.)-    

We took this as  saying...moderation, in everything. Also, take rests in between striving for excellence. One cannot constantly have the 'pedal to the medal' or, it soon wears out/ loses its lustre. 

What did you think Phaedrus was trying to say here?

That's my view...what say you?

The problem of ASSUMPTIONS...

Blog quote #1138... 
"Assumptions are the termites of relationships." -Henry 'the Fonz' Winkler-    

Power packed, concise comment with a unique, yet effective comparison. One conclusion here might be-- For better relations, clarify before assuming? Hmm... 

That's my view...what say you?