Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Failure is a blessing when it pushes us out of a cushioned seat of self-satisfaction and forces us to do something useful.

If you carefully study your own life and those of achievers whom you admire, it is an absolute certainty you will discover that your greatest opportunities often occurred during times of adversity. It is only when faced with the possibility of failure that we are willing to deal with radical change and take the risks that lead to great success. When you experience temporary failure and you know that it is temporary, you can capitalize on the opportunities adversity always brings.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

First Thing Every Morning

If you had a bank that credited your account each morning with $86,400—with no balance carried from day to day—what would you do? Well, you do have such a bank...time.

Every morning it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it rules off as "lost" whatever you have failed to use toward good purposes. It carries over no balances and allows no overdrafts. You can't hoard it, save it, store it, loan it or invest it. You can only use it—time.

Here's a story that drives the point home.

Arthur Berry was described by Time as "the slickest second-story man in the East," truly one of the most famous jewel thieves of all times. In his years of crime, he committed as many as 150 burglaries and stole jewels valued between $5 and $10 million. He seldom robbed from anyone not listed in the Social Register and often did his work in a tuxedo. On an occasion or two, when caught in the act of a crime by a victim, he charmed his way out of being reported to the police.

Like most people who engage in a life of crime, he was eventually caught, convicted and served 25 years in prison for his crimes. Following his release, he worked as a counterman in a roadside restaurant on the East Coast for $50 a week.

A newspaper reporter found him and interviewed him about his life. After telling about the thrilling episodes of his life he came to the conclusion of the interview saying, "I am not good at morals. But early in my life I was intelligent and clever, and I got along well with people. I think I could have made something of my life, but I didn't. So when you write the story of my life, when you tell people about all the burglaries, don't leave out the biggest one of all... Don't just tell them I robbed Jesse Livermore, the Wall Street baron or the cousin of the king of England. You tell them Arthur Berry robbed Arthur Berry."

Here are six terrific truths about time:

First: Nobody can manage time. But you can manage those things that take up your time.

Second: Time is expensive. As a matter of fact, 80 percent of our day is spent on those things or those people that only bring us two percent of our results.

Third: Time is perishable. It cannot be saved for later use.

Fourth: Time is measurable. Everybody has the same amount of time...pauper or king. It is not how much time you have; it is how much you use.

Fifth: Time is irreplaceable. We never make back time once it is gone.

Sixth: Time is a priority. You have enough time for anything in the world, so long as it ranks high enough among your priorities.

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What you've just read is an excerpt from First Thing Every Morning by Lewis Timberlake.

Monday, December 19, 2011

There always remains an opportunity to make a new start.

Though it may not seem so when you first encounter a serious blow, you can never lose two of the most important assets you have. These are the power of your mind and your freedom to use it. Once you have turned them to understanding what laid you low, you can begin forming new plans. You may not have the money you once had; you may lack the allies you had cultivated. But you still have the benefit of a universe that eventually rewards honest effort, as well as gaining the experience of mistakes you will never make again. Remember, no matter where you are now, whatever you can conceive and believe, you can achieve.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Thought For The Day

Edison failed 10,000 times before perfecting the incandescent electric light bulb. Don't worry if you fail once.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

The Law of Success - Replace Fear with Faith by Napoleon Hill

The first problem we have is to replace fear with understanding and faith in ourselves. To do this, let us examine the mechanism of fear and its relation to bodily function.

First and foremost, let me tell you that temporary, fleeting fear is a very important and quite normal function of the human mind. The fleeting fear of being hit as we cross the street only serves to make us cautions - it protects our life - by momentarily forcing our attention on the problem of getting across safely. Thus, fear teaches us caution, but the fear is forgotten as soon as we have safely crossed.

The second important purpose of fear is to mobilize the body functions in defense of our life against a threatening situation. Consider for a moment early primitive man, sitting warmed by his fire in the gathering dusk, and enjoying a meal prepared during the day. Certainly, this early man was at peace with the world and the toils of the day were forgotten. At this moment let us say, a twig cracked in the forest - a sign of danger. An enemy was near.

Frequently fear is no longer a reaction to a specific danger, but a thoroughly learned habit of response, perhaps learned in early childhood. Although the need of this response has long since been lost, the pattern of thinking may persist, and now is defeating your quest for happiness and effective living. We fear most the unknown. Seek knowledge and understanding of your fear, and it will be replaced by faith. One must cultivate and nurture a positive mental attitude to achieve that smooth, effectively functioning mind-body you are seeking.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

The Law of Success - Eternal Change by Napoleon Hill

Strange also is the fact that only one thing is permanent in this universe—eternal change. Nothing remains exactly the same for even a second. Even the physical body in which we live changes completely with astonishing rapidity.

You can test these statements against your own experience.

When a person is struggling for recognition and to get a few dollars ahead, seldom will he find anyone to give him a needed lift. But once he makes the grade—and no longer needs help—people stand in line to offer him aid.

Through what I call the law of attraction, like attracts like in all circumstances. Success attracts greater success. Failure attracts more failure.

Throughout our lives we are the beneficiaries or victims of a swiftly flowing stream which carries us onward toward either success or failure.

The idea is to get on the “success beam” rather than on the “failure beam.”

How can you do this? Simple. The answer lies in adopting a positive mental attitude that will help you shape the course of your own destiny rather than drifting along at the mercy of life’s adversities.

Source: Miami Daily News, Summer, 1956

Monday, October 31, 2011

Happy Halloween Pumpkin Carving Video by Google

When adversity overtakes you, it pays to be thankful it was not worse instead of worrying over your misfortune.

There are few things in life that are as bad as they seem at first. Dealing with adversity begins with analyzing and accepting your situation for what it is. When you realize that things are not nearly as bad as they might have been, you have taken the first step toward working your way through the problem. It is a truism that you will never be asked to carry a heavier load than you can bear, but it sometimes helps you better appreciate that fact if you volunteer some of your time to help those who are less fortunate than you are.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Human faults are like garden weeds. They grow with out cultivation and soon take over the place if they aren't thinned out.

Habits are formed so slowly that most of us don’t realize what is happening until the habits are too strongly entrenched to be broken. Seldom can one pattern of behavior be eliminated without replacing it with another. It has been said that nature abhors a vacuum and will always find something to fill a void. The best way to thin out the “weeds,” or faults in your character, is to identify those traits with which you are dissatisfied and replace them with their positive counterparts. If you have a tendency to lose your temper, for example, find a replacement for your anger. Neutralize it with a positive expression or affirmation, such as, “No one can make me angry unless I let them. I will not let anyone else control my emotions.”

Monday, October 24, 2011

Law of Sucess - "What Do We Mean by Believe?" By Napoleon Hill

Wishing won't make it so," runs an old saying. This is true, and helps you remember a wish is not a belief.

A wish takes place, as it were, upon the surface of the mind. I wish . . . you may say, and follow with any wish that tickles your fancy . . . to have a million dollars drop into your lap . . . to be able to flap your arms and fly. A wish is not limited by natural forces. That very apparent fact, however, is not the main difference between a wish and a belief.

A belief is created, as it were, in the depths of the mind. A belief becomes part of you. That is why a true, deep belief can change your glandular secretions and the content of your bloodstream, and work other physical changes beyond the power of medical science to explain. Again, a belief, radiating its unknown wave length from the depths of your mind to the depths of another mind, accounts for a good deal of "personality power" and much else on which we can put only the clumsiest of labels. It is belief in a cause - much stronger than a wish to stay alive - which causes people to transcend ever the instinct of self-preservation. It is belief that founds religion, sustains nations, stands behind anything great that ever is achieved. A belief, I repeat, is part of you; that is why you can achieve what you believe. Moreover, when you hold a great belief you believe all the time, just as, all the time, you go on living.

Monday, October 17, 2011

The most interesting thing about a postage stamp is the persistence with which it sticks to it's job.

The tiny, insignificant postage stamp is a good example of what it is possible to achieve if you stick with the job until it is finished. Inconspicuously stuck on the corner of the envelope, it provides the impetus to keep moving until the entire packet reaches its ultimate destination. The influence you may have upon your company, your church, your family, or any organization is incalculable if you have the persistence to pursue your goal until you achieve it. It is an absolute certainty that you will encounter obstacles in any worthwhile endeavor. When you do, remember the inconsequential little postage stamp and stick with the job until it is finished.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

The average person would have quit at the first failure. That's why there have been many average men and only one Edison.

Thomas Edison once observed that the reason most folks don’t recognize opportunity when it comes knocking is that it is often dressed in overalls and looks like work. Edison knew that anything worthwhile never comes easily; if it were easy, anyone could do it. Because he persisted far beyond the point the average person would consider reasonable and rational, he produced inventions that even the most learned people of the day considered impossible. Great advances in knowledge are often achieved by people with an almost fanatical devotion to finding the solution to a problem. Flashes of inspiration alone are not enough to ensure success; they must be followed by determined, persistent action.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

HOW TO READ BAR CODES



If food products are made in China, you can never tell what unclean products they may put into them.

ALWAYS READ THE LABELS ON THE FOODS YOU BUY--NO MATTER WHAT THE FRONT OF THE BOX OR PACKAGE SAYS, TURN IT OVER AND READ THE BACK---CAREFULLY!

With all the food and pet products now coming from China, it is best to make sure you read labels at the grocery store and especially Walmart when buying food products. Many products no longer show where they were made, only give where the distributor is located. It is important to read the bar code to track it's origin.

How to read Bar Codes
This may be useful to know when grocery shopping, if it's a concern to you.
GREAT WAY TO "BUY USA & CANADA" AND NOT FROM CHINA!!

The whole world is afraid of China-made "black hearted goods".

Can you differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China?

If the first 3 digits of the barcode are 690, 691 or 692, the product is MADE IN CHINA.
471 is Made in Taiwan.

This is our right to know, but the government and related departments never educate the public, therefore we have to RESCUE ourselves.

Nowadays, Chinese businessmen know that consumers do not prefer products "MADE IN CHINA ", so they don't show from which country it is made. However, you may now refer to the barcode -remember if the first 3 digits are:

690-692 ... then it is MADE IN CHINA
00 - 09 ... USA & CANADA
30 - 37 ... FRANCE
40 - 44 ... GERMANY
471 ... Taiwan
49 ... JAPAN
50 ... UK

BUY USA & CANADIAN MADE by watching for "0" at the beginning of the number.
We need every boost we can get!

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Street Smart Safety Seminar

& BAR present a

Street Smart Safety

SEMINAR!

With Officer Bill Cain National Public Safety Coalition

Friday, October 14



Association Office 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.



How do you avoid danger? What to do if you are attacked.

DON’T MISS THIS FREE PERSONAL SAFETY SEMINAR

Speaker Bill Cain is a 9-year police veteran

He graduated first in his class at the Georgia Police Academy

He is a specialist in gang intelligence and crime prevention procedures

He is considered by many as one of the top authorities in this field



Question and answer session will follow seminar

Personal safety items will be available for sale



BREAKFAST & DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS included



REGISTRATION FORM:

Seating is limited. Reservations are required.



Name: ________________________________________________________



Cell Phone: ___________________ Email: __________________________



Firm: _________________________________________________________



Complete form and FAX to the BAR office: 802-6074

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

The Law of Success...A Philosopher's Creed...By Napoleon Hill

Let me be open-minded on all subjects so that I may grow mentally and spiritually.
May the time never come when I will be above learning from the humblest person.
Let me never forget that a closed mind is a narrow mind.
May I never express opinions on any subject unless they are founded upon reasonable dependable knowledge.
Forbid that I should ever find fault with another because he may not agree with me.
May I always show a wholesome respect for those with whom I may not agree.
Let me be always mindful of the fact that all my knowledge is as nothing when compared to all that remains to be learned.
Give me the courage to admit my ignorance when I am asked a question about which I know little or nothing.
May I always share with others such knowledge as I may possess which can be of help to them.
Let me never forget that humility of heart will attract more friends than all the wisdom of mankind.
Let me remain ever a student in search of truth, and never pretend to be a finished scholar on any subject.

Friday, September 23, 2011

Today is the first day of fall...hope you enjoy this article.

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door.

Dear Dogs and Cats: The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.

The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first and then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough!

Monday, September 19, 2011

Faith is a combination of thoughts and actions.

When you apply your faith in yourself, your faith in your fellow man, and your faith in God, the result is a positive course of action that when persistently followed will almost always lead to success. When you believe in your ideas and in your abilities, and you trust in the Infinite Intelligence of the universe, you know that your thoughts and deeds will ultimately lead to a successful conclusion. You cannot fail.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

September Maintenance Suggestions

September Maintenance Suggestions

Caulk the Exterior

Any gap on the outside of your home may be a spot for caulking. Check the corners, windows, doors, areas where masonry joins siding, or places where vents and other objects extend from walls. Read manufacturer's directions to select the appropriate caulk for the task.

Check the Insulation

This is a good time to check the condition of insulation, especially in an older home. If your walls aren’t insulated, professionally installed blown-in insulation will probably pay for itself in a couple of years.

Check the Gutters

Make sure the downspouts and gutters are not clogged, smashed or open at joints to prevent moisture or ice damage later.

Check the Weather Stripping

Check weather stripping and add as necessary to doors and windows to keep moisture and cold air out. Various fixes are readily available (gaskets, thresholds, etc.) to fill gaps.

Clean the Dryer Vent

You should do this twice a year, in fall and spring. Carefully move the dryer away from the wall, unplug it and vacuum behind it. (If it's a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply to the dryer at the appliance shutoff valve.) Unhook the tube that leads to the vent and clear as much lint from the tube as possible. Carefully remove the outside vent cover, and using a shop vacuum or a dryer lint brush, clean as far up the vent as you can from the outside.

Check the Storm Windows

Repair and clean cracked or dirty storm windows before installing them.

Use Vent Covers to Help Protect Pipes

Have cut-to-size plywood or foam vent covers available for the cold side of your house and place them against the exterior basement vents during extra cold spells to help keep your pipes from freezing. Be sure to uncover them in the spring; the vents are needed to prevent moisture accumulation when it’s warmer.

Keep Rodents Out

In the fall, mice, rats and squirrels seek warm, dry places such as your house. Mice can squeeze through a quarter-inch opening and rats half-inch opening. Check that all exterior vents are screened, and that there are no gaps underneath windows, doors and garage doors.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Extreme Weather Driving Challenge

Take the quiz and see how you do....

Ability is greater than money because it can be neither lost or stolen.

If you study the lives of very successful people, you will find that they rarely climb to the top of their business or profession and stay there. They often climb to the top and fall to the bottom several times during their careers, but they know that the one thing that got them where they are -- their ability -- is always there to help them reach the top again. Your ability is the one thing that you own exclusively; no one can ever take it from you.

Monday, August 8, 2011

BEWARE...JURY DUTY SCAM!

Jury Duty Scam

Pass this on to your grown children and anyone else you can think of. This has been verified by the FBI (their link is also included below). Please pass this on to everyone in your email address book. It is spreading fast so be prepared should you get this call. Most of us take those summonses for jury duty seriously, but enough people skip out on their civic duty that a new and ominous kind of fraud has surfaced.

The caller claims to be a jury DUTY coordinator. If you protest that you never received a summons for jury duty, the Scammer asks you for your Social Security number and date of birth so he or she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant. Give out any of this information and bingo, your identity was just stolen.

The fraud has been reported so far in 11 states, including Oklahoma , Illinois , and Colorado , AZ and more. This (swindle) is particularly insidious because they use intimidation over the phone to try to bully people into giving information by pretending they are with the court system..

The FBI and the federal court system have issued nationwide alerts on their web sites, warning consumers about the fraud.
Check it out here:

http://www.fbi.gov/page2/june06/jury_scams060206.htm

And here:

http://www.snopes.com/crime/fraud/juryduty.asp




Monday, August 1, 2011

It's a sure thing that you'll not finish if you don't start!

An ancient proverb says, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” You have probably known people nearing the end of their life’s journey who looked back and said, “If only I had done things differently. . . . If only I had taken advantage of that opportunity when it came along.” Unfulfilled lives are filled with “if only’s”. They are the refrain of the timid souls whose lives were finished before they ever really got started. Life is filled with many opportunities -- for great successes and spectacular failures. It is up to you to seize the initiative, to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way. You are condemned to a life of mediocrity -- unless you get into action. Don’t delay; do it today!

Saturday, July 30, 2011

"The heat is on."

It only takes a look at what is happening in Europe these days to understand why it’s crucial that the United States finds a solution to the debt ceiling issue. Not only have eight European banks recently failed a stress test, but last week there was news that Greek, Italian, Portuguese, and French "credit default swaps" (which are insurance policies against default) were trading at record levels. While the European Union is continuing to work to contain Europe’s debt problems and prevent a default in Greece (and elsewhere), these events bode a very important lesson for the US.

Why? Because solving our debt ceiling debate and finding a long-term plan for lowering our deficit and being fiscally sound will raise confidence in our debt and help the US keep its AAA credit rating from the various credit rating firms like Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s. This will help investors continue to see the US as the ultra safe haven for their money, which is a key aspect of our continued economic recovery.

Speaking of our economic recovery, there was some good news last week for the housing sector, as June Housing Starts and Building Permits were both reported better than expected.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Thought For The Day !!

Think Before You Speak.

Always contemplate your words. We sometimes tend to speak out of turn – which is entirely not a good thing to do.

“Self-disciplined begins with the mastery of your thoughts. If you don't control what you think, you can't control what you do. Simply, self-discipline enables you to think first and act afterward.”

Napoleon Hill


Before you speak, listen.
Before you write, think.
Before you spend, earn.
Before you invest, investigate.
Before you criticize, wait.
Before you pray, forgive.
Before you quit, try.
Before you retire, save.
Before you die, give.”

-William Arthur Ward

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Monday, July 18, 2011

Thought For The Day !!

An excerpt from
The 100/0 Principle
by Al Ritter
What is the most effective way to create and sustain great relationships with others? It's The 100/0 Principle: You take full responsibility (the 100) for the relationship, expecting nothing (the 0) in return.

Implementing The 100/0 Principle is not natural for most of us. It takes real commitment to the relationship and a good dose of self-discipline to think, act and give 100 percent.

The 100/0 Principle applies to those people in your life where the relationships are too important to react automatically or judgmentally. Each of us must determine the relationships to which this principle should apply. For most of us, it applies to work associates, customers, suppliers, family and friends.
• STEP 1 - Determine what you can do to make the relationship work...then do it. Demonstrate respect and kindness to the other person, whether he/she deserves it or not.
• STEP 2 - Do not expect anything in return. Zero, zip, nada.
• STEP 3 - Do not allow anything the other person says or does (no matter how annoying!) to affect you. In other words, don't take the bait.
• STEP 4 - Be persistent with your graciousness and kindness. Often we give up too soon, especially when others don't respond in kind. Remember to expect nothing in return.

At times (usually few), the relationship can remain challenging, even toxic, despite your 100 percent commitment and self-discipline. When this occurs, you need to avoid being the "Knower" and shift to being the "Learner." Avoid Knower statements/ thoughts like "that won't work," "I'm right, you are wrong," "I know it and you don't," "I'll teach you," "that's just the way it is," "I need to tell you what I know," etc.

Instead use Learner statements/thoughts like "Let me find out what is going on and try to understand the situation," "I could be wrong," "I wonder if there is anything of value here," "I wonder if..." etc. In other words, as a Learner, be curious!

Principle Paradox

This may strike you as strange, but here's the paradox: When you take authentic responsibility for a relationship, more often than not the other person quickly chooses to take responsibility as well. Consequently, the 100/0 relationship quickly transforms into something approaching 100/100. When that occurs, true breakthroughs happen for the individuals involved, their teams, their organizations and their families

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Press Release for Ross Bridge

For Immediate Release
July 12, 2011

Birmingham, Alabama
New Home Community
ROSS BRIDGE RANKS AMONG TOP 20 COMMUNITIES IN THE COUNTRY FOR NEW HOME SALES IN 2010.

2010 has been an extraordinary year for Ross Bridge. The new home community located in Hoover, Alabama ranks among the top 20 master-planned communities nationally for total home sales. Quite an achievement considering the Birmingham market size (49th nationally) relative to the other communities listed in the top 20 who are predominantly located within the largest metropolitan areas throughout the country including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Houston, Phoenix, Denver and Orlando.

John Burns Real Estate Consulting developed the national sales report. They are an independent research provider and consulting firm focused on the housing industry compiling and analyzing an unprecedented volume of information.

In addition to this sales achievement, Ross Bridge was also named winner of the 2010 Best in American Living Awards (BALA) by the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) receiving the platinum award in the category of best community.

In addition to this prestigious new home community award, Ross Bridge’s Dorothy Tayloe won the Silver Award for Best Sales Manager and the Community won the Gold Award for Best Signage.

Since 2005 Ross Bridge has been Birmingham Alabama’s hottest selling new home community with over 900 families. This past year is an accumulation of outstanding accomplishments and yet, the best has yet to come.

The latest community amenity – Shades Creek Park & Pool opened this past May.

The community features several neighborhoods with a variety of home styles for everyone from first-time homebuyers and basement-style homes to stunning custom homes. The very near future will bring new neighborhoods, new builders with new home styles and price points to meet the market’s demand for what is truly one of the nation’s hottest selling new home communities.

Ross Bridge is jointly developed by USS Real Estate and Daniel Corporation. Reflecting the latest design trends in Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND), Ross Bridge aptly demonstrates that coastal areas and the big cities of the Northeast are no longer the only domain for TND and mixed-use communities. It has taken the decades-old “planned unit development resort community” concept and infused it with the latest in traditional neighborhood development design, creating a walkable community with a unique sense of place and a vibrant community spirit.

The Award Winning Welcome Center and Models are open
Daily 9am-5pm, Sunday 1pm to 5pm

For more information, please contact Dorothy Tayloe at the Ross Bridge Sales Center at (205) 443-4663 or visit www.rossbridge.com. 2101 Grand Avenue, Hoover, Alabama 35336

The complete article from John Burns Real Estate Consulting is available online at:
http://www.realestateconsulting.com/blog/tim-sullivan/2010-best-selling-masterplans

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Don't be afraid to aim high when choosing your life's goal, for no matter how high you aim, your achievements may fall below it.

Many businesses today advocate “continuous improvement” as part of their quality programs. They have realized that to remain competitive in today’s global economy they must constantly strive to improve every aspect of the business, otherwise they will be overtaken by the competition. The same ethic applies to individuals. All of life is a continuous learning experience. Every success and every temporary setback only serve to prepare you for the time when you will eventually prevail. Your short- and medium-term goals should be realistic and achievable, but your long-term goals should always far exceed your present capabilities. As the Roman poet Virgil said, “Fortune sides with him who dares.”

Thursday, June 30, 2011

NO ONE CAN SUCCEED AND REMAIN SUCCESSFUL WITHOUT THE FRIENDLY COOPERATION OF OTHERS.

In today’s interdependent society, it is virtually impossible in any business, profession, or occupation for an individual to achieve great heights of success without the help of others. The best way to get friendly cooperation is to give it. When you make it a practice to encourage others and to help them advance in their careers whenever possible, most will reciprocate when you need their help. Give generously, and you will benefit in kind.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Thought For The Day !!

Never tear down anything unless your are prepared to build something better in it's place.

This rule applies to both individuals and things. It’s easy to criticize other people thoughtlessly for their shortcomings, and equally easy to find fault in their work or in situations that are not to your liking. It is far more difficult to be a builder of people and to create works of art, useful products, or profitable businesses. Make sure you are a builder, not a destroyer of people and things. When you criticize the actions or work of others -- your children, your employees, or others for whom you are responsible -- make sure your criticisms are positive and directed at the act, or the opportunity for improvement, not the individual. Include specific suggestions for their application and focus on the potential for success.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Fun Facts - and Activities - for Father’s Day!

Father’s Day is this coming Sunday, June 19, 2011. To help mark the occasion, here are some fun facts and a list of activities that can help you give Dad the gift of family memories.
One in a Million? According to the US Census Bureau, there are 70.1 million fathers across the US. Although they all share the experience of fatherhood, each dad is unique. That means, your dad isn’t just one in a million; he’s one in 70.1 million!
Want to learn more fun facts about this special holiday for dads, check out the US Census Bureau’s Father’s Day Facts page.
Simple, Special, and Inexpensive Activities for Dad
Go for a hike - If your dad enjoys nature and relaxing walks, plan a hike on Father’s Day. Whether you make it an easy stroll or a more challenging climb, a hike is a great way to spend some quality time away from the chaos of everyday life. Here are some hiking tips and packing ideas that can make the day as safe as it is fun.
Visit a museum or history center - Whether your dad enjoys art or history, you’re sure to find a museum or history center in your area that will fit his interests. Plan the special day as a surprise and be sure to allow plenty of time to let Dad set the pace, so he can take his time. The American Association of Museums offers an online directory of museums near you. Try it today to search by city, state, and even the type of museum you want to visit.
Go fish - Take Dad to his favorite fishing spot for the afternoon. Of course, if Dad’s not much of a fisherman, consider pulling out a deck of cards and playing a game of Go Fish with the younger children. Take a few minutes to read the rules to Go Fish, as well as find other game ideas.
Play ball - There are plenty of baseball fields and open parks where the family can gather for a game of baseball with Dad. Whether you play a more competitive game of fastball or softball with older children or Wiffle ball with youngsters, it’ll be a day you all remember. Here’s a fun site with the official Wiffle Ball rules.
Hand over the remote - Father’s Day isn’t always sunny and warm. But even if the weather doesn’t cooperate this year, you can still make the day special for Dad. Consider curling up on the couch with your dad for a couple hours of his favorite shows or movies. You can even plan ahead by renting some of his favorite old movies as a surprise.
Fill the frames - You don’t need to spend a lot of money to give Dad the perfect gift. If you have some old picture frames around the house that are sitting in a closet or have out-of-date photos in them, consider giving them a new look. An inexpensive can of paint and some new photos of the kids can go a long way. If the children are older, consider reprinting some old photos of the kids when they were younger. Or you could even take some before and after photos of the kids by retaking photos of them today in the same place and pose of an old photo. Then combine the old and new photos using a photo editing software program or simply place the photos side-by-side in a frame. It’s a gift any dad will be sure to cherish.
Watch home movies - Don’t just limit your movie watching to Dad’s favorite Hollywood films. Instead, spend some time watching some of those home movies that feature Dad and the kids - or even older home movies of Dad when he was a kid. If you don’t have many home movies, put together a slideshow of photos; it’s easy to do and you can even add music on your computer. Of course, if technology isn’t your thing, there’s no need to worry - grab the family photo albums and gather around Dad for a couple hours of laughing and sharing.
Don’t forget Dad’s favorite meal - Whether it’s breakfast in bed or a favorite dinner, make sure you dedicate at least one meal to Dad.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads across the country - all 70.1 million of you. And may your special day be filled with memories as unique as each of you!

Monday, June 6, 2011

Birmingham celebrates Vulcan's 107th birthday

The 12.5 Values of a Sales Professional

1. The value of creating a difference between you and the competition
The biggest difference is the difference they perceive in YOU!

2. The value of knowing the difference between satisfied and loyal
Satisfied customers buy anywhere. Loyal stays, fights for you, and refers.

3. The value of your ability to speak and be compelling
If your sales message is boring they pass. If it's compelling, they want to buy.

4. The value of knowing everything or being too busy
All the information you need to succeed already exists.
You may not be exposing yourself to it.

5. The value of establishing a friendly relationship
All things being equal people want to do business with their friends.
All things being not quite so equal people still want to do business with their friends.

6. The value of your humor
If you can make 'em laugh, you can make 'em buy. Study humor.

7. The value of creativity
Your key to being perceived as different lies in your creativity.
Creativity can be learned.

8. The value of asking for the sale
It's so simple, no one does it.

9. The value of your belief in yourself
To make a sale, you gotta believe you work for the greatest company in the world,
you gotta believe you have the greatest products and services in the world,
you gotta believe you're the greatest person in the world.
Three key words, you gotta believe.

10. The value of being prepared
Most salespeople are half prepared. They know everything about themselves, they know nothing about their prospect.

11. The value of not whining
You may be the greatest -- but if you whine, no one will like or respect you.

12. The value of an apple a day
An hour of learning a day will make you a world class expert at anything in 5 years.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

You will never be greater than the thoughts that dominate your mind.

If it's true that you become what you think about most, it follows that the quantity and quality of success you achieve in your life will be in direct proportion to the size of your thoughts. If you allow your mind to be dominated by trivial matters, your achievements are likely to be unimportant. Discipline yourself to think about important things. Keep up with what's new in your field and with what's going on in the world. Make a list of good ideas that you can use anytime you are searching for a creative solution to a problem. Remember, small minds think about things; great minds think about ideas.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Monday, April 25, 2011

Big pay and little responsibility are circumstances seldom found together.

It is possible to go through life without ever accepting any responsibility, but such freedom from the cares of the world comes at an enormous financial cost. If you make it a practice to go out the back door when responsibility walks through the front, you will also miss out on the opportunities that always accompany responsibility. In almost any vocation, profession, or calling, your remuneration is directly proportional to the responsibility that accompanies your position. Make it a practice to volunteer for more responsibility or simply to assume it. There are times when you must get on with the task at hand without ever being formally told you're in charge of it. If you demonstrate that you are a can-do kind of person, responsibility and the higher pay that accompanies it will come to you.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

PROCRASTINATION IS THE BAD HABIT OF PUTTING OFF UNTIL THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE THE DAY BEFORE YESTERDAY.

For an achiever, perhaps the most dangerous, most destructive habit of all is procrastination, for it robs you of your initiative. When you put things off once, it’s easier to put them off again, until the habit is so firmly ingrained that it cannot be easily broken. Sadly, the effects of the habit of procrastination are also cumulative. Its cure is obvious-action. You’ll be surprised how quickly you begin to feel better about yourself and your situation when you get going on something-anything. As British prime minister and author Benjamin Disraeli said, "Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action."

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

You can think your way into or out of almost any circumstance, good or bad.

No action takes place unless it is preceded by thought. If you're unhappy with the circumstances in which you find yourself, you can improve your situation through the power of thought, just as surely as you can destroy a positive life with negative thinking. Success begins with an honest analysis of your present condition, acceptance of responsibility for your own life, and the development of a workable plan to achieve what you desire.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Thought For The Day !!

Your Reputation is what people think you are...Your Character is what you are !! You want your reputation and your character to match, but concentrate on your character. You may be able to fool others about the kind of person you really are for a time, but it seldom lasts for long. The surest way to make sure your character and your reputation are the same is to live your life in such a way that nothing you do would embarrass you if it were printed on the front page of the newspaper. Good character means not ever taking ethical shortcuts, even though everyone else may be doing so. You build good character by doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Artist Rendering


A beautiful Custom Home under construction by Murphy Home Builders, LLC in the Glasscott neighborhood @ Ross Bride, Voted "Best Community in America"....this wonderful home is "sold", however Kyle is available to discuss building the home of your dreams....call us to schedule your private meeting with Kyle.

Monday, March 14, 2011

Daylight Savings Time - Interesting Facts

Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins on Sunday, March 13, 2011. The way we refer to time zones also changes. For example, Eastern Standard Time (EST) becomes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).

But remember, some areas of the United States don’t use DST, such as Arizona, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the US Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

Benefits of Daylight Saving Time

Despite some concerns, Americans overwhelmingly like Daylight Saving Time. There is simply more sunlight in the evenings to enjoy the outdoors and get things done. Plus, additional hours of daylight can help save energy on a national scale - as much as 100,000 barrels of oil per day according to some estimates.

And brighter is safer. Studies have shown that the DST shift reduces traffic accidents. Additionally, a study by the US Law Enforcement Admin also determined that crime is consistently lower during DST, with violent crimes down as much as 10% to 13%. For many crimes, like mugging, darkness is a factor--so more light in the evening hours reduces these types of crimes.

Cons of Daylight Saving Time

Not everyone benefits from DST. For example, many farmers say that DST has a negative impact on their livestock’s natural schedules. The airline industry also reports that it costs millions of dollars to adjust time schedules - and even then, airlines report numerous problems with international flight connections during the transition time since DST isn’t followed uniformly around the world.

Interesting DST Facts

A man was actually able to avoid the draft for the Vietnam War using a Daylight Saving Time loophole. When he was born, it was just after midnight, DST. When he was drafted, he successfully argued that in his home state of Delaware, standard time - not DST - was the official time for recording births. So he was technically born on the previous date - which had a much higher draft lottery number - and he was able to avoid being drafted.
In September 1999, the West Bank was on Daylight Saving Time, while Israel had switched back to standard time. A group of West Bank terrorists prepared some timed bombs. Unfortunately for them, they misunderstood the time change and the bombs exploded early - killing the terrorists themselves rather than the intended victims, two busloads of innocent citizens.
In the 1950s and 60s, each state and locality was permitted to choose start and end DST dates as they desired. During 1965, Minneapolis and St. Paul - which are considered one metropolitan area - didn't agree on start dates, and for a period of time, these Twin Cities had a one hour time change between them. And on one Ohio to Virginia bus route, passengers technically had to change their watches seven times in 35 miles!
To keep to their published timetables, Amtrak trains cannot leave a station before the scheduled time. So when the clocks "fall back" in the fall, all trains that are running on time actually stop at 2 am - the official time of DST change - and wait one hour before resuming their routes. In the spring, the routes instantaneously become one hour behind schedule, but they just keep going and do their best to make up the time.
Finally, since many electronic devices and computer programs are set to adjust to DST based on the old dates, they may not change automatically on March 13. So, you’ll want to double-check all of your devices and confirm that the time is correct.

Friday, February 11, 2011

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Only the highway of useful service leads to the city of happiness.

Psychologists who study human behavior have concluded that we are happiest when we are striving to achieve success. It is the act of striving, not the successful completion of the task, that provides the greatest psychic rewards. When you strive to achieve success through service to others, you multiply the benefits to yourself, and you ensure that whatever road you choose in life will ultimately lead you to success and happiness. There is no occupation or profession that will not benefit from a concerted effort to better serve others. But the greatest benefit will be to you, in the form of the self-satisfaction that comes from knowing that you made a difference, that without you others would never have received the service you provided.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

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