purposeology - Self-Development on Purpose!

God Wants You To Succeed

2009-12-12T00:01:00.011-05:00

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How to Get On Achieving Success--GOALS

2009-11-23T23:17:00.006-05:00

Some people read all the books, watch all the DVDs, and listen to all the CDs on being successful, yet -- day after day -- success for them is just an illusion. Maybe that's the problem...they read, they watch, they listen, but they fail to set goals and take action. You would be surprised to know just how many people do not set goals. Last time I checked, it was something like 90-95%! Wow! Is there any wonder that the vast majority of society lives in a fog, arriving at retirement broke, busted, and disgusted?

So, what are goals and how do you achieve them?

Goals are representations of your visions about you and your future. They are where you see yourself next week or next month or next year.

How can you Get On Achieving Success? Follow these simple steps and watch your life change right before your very eyes!

1. Work backwards. In his book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Dr. Stephen Covey calls this "beginning with the end in mind." Let's say you're a 30-something receptionist who has grown tired of making just enough money to get by. You're living from paycheck to paycheck, so you've decided you need to get your Bachelors degree. Well, the end for you is graduation. Visualize that and answer these questions: What was your major? Are you getting a degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Computers? Next, what school are you graduating from? How many credits do you need to graduate? Get it? The benefit of working backwards is that it allows you to create smaller, bite-sized goals that will keep you encouraged along your journey. For example, you get registered for your first class -- a milestone! You get through your first semester -- another milestone! Before you know it, you'll have all the coursework done and you'll be graduating.

2. See it, speak it, seize it. Like a runner training for a race, you have to set your mind for peak performance. This is the mental work that will help develop the proper mindset for a clearer vision of you achieving your goals. If you are vying for promotion in your workplace, it is important that you see yourself already in the position you want; visualization is the 'see it' part of the equation. If you leave this out, you won't be motivated enough to follow through.

Speak it. I'm a firm believer that "the power of life and death is in the tongue." Affirmations come in handy because they serve to remind you, on both a conscious and subconscious level, that you can and will achieve your goals. Your voice is powerful, and when you hear yourself saying things like: "I am happy and excited walking across the stage to accept my Bachelors degree in Business," your subconscious mind goes to work to help make that statement a reality. Remember this, you subconscious does not know nor does it care if what you're saying is reality; if it isn't, it will start to help you make it reality. How cool is that!

Seize it. To use a few cliches here--take massive action, just do it, get 'er done, go for the brass ring, etc. Success comes through action not dreams... A-C-T-I-O-N! If you want something, you've got to do something. Our receptionist cannot expect to get that degree if she just simply hopes for it. She has to get off her duff and make strategic steps to achieve her goal, and so will you!

When you take these simple steps I've outlined for you, I guarantee you will get on achieving success!

Until next blog/vlog post,
Dr. Angela aka 'The Purpose Professor'
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Seed Money In Action, Part 3

2009-11-11T11:03:00.001-05:00

Money and How to Get More of It, (Seed Money, Part 2)

2009-11-02T13:40:00.006-05:00

I'd like to continue sharing my thoughts on the concept of seed money and how it can revolutionize your financial status. I'm reading Seed Money In Action by Dr. Jon Speller and Kathleen Shedaker. It is a must read!

My Ah Ha! moment for this blog post: Love money for the good that it can do. What a mental shift for me. Like I told you yesterday, I've been working through this whole "money is evil" mindset that's held me back for more years than I want to mention. Anyway, when I read the statement: Love money for the good that it can do, I had an epiphany! Speller and Shedaker go on to say that money is just energy. Money is neither good nor bad; it's just money. Like an airplane is neither good nor bad; it's just an airplane. It can be used to do bad things (i.e., 9/11) or it can be used to do good (getting me to my seminar in Grand Rapids, MI on time -- just thought I'd throw that in since I'm a frequent flyer!) So, in essence, thinking of money as energy and focusing on the positive things money can do releases us from unfounded feelings of guilt and shame we sometimes associate with having or not having it. Listen, there is no glory in poverty. Just ask a homeless person.

I don't know about you, my dear readers, but I love the fact that money can help my elderly parents live more comfortably because I can exchange it for a home health aide. Or what about exchanging it for the steaks I love to order at Texas Roadhouse? Or exchanging it for the joy of knowing I'm helping an elderly Jewish person in Russia get medicine or food when I sent $50 to The International Federation of Christians and Jews? When you put it into perspective, money--because of all the good it can do--is a lovely thing; don't you agree? What good can you generate in your world, the world of your loved ones, and the world of people-at-large by simply making an exchange? Think about it!

Join me in spreading hope through The Peoples Program, a sure-fire way to get you some more money so that you can make some awesome, life-changing exchanges!

Remember: "Life with no purpose is no life at all!"
Dr. Angela

3 Hot Tips to Building Effective Relationships

2009-10-28T12:36:00.007-04:00

Let's face it, relationships take work! It doesn't matter the kind of relationship...work, family, love...if they're going to be successful, we have to work! Wonderful relationships can provide security, be long lasting, and withstand trials.

Here are a few tips to help you work on those important relationships in your life:

OPENLY EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS

Effective and efficient relationships require open expression on the part of all concerned. You have to express your feelings and positions on all matters pertinent on the relationship. It is not a good practice to just assume that the other party understands your needs.

RESPECT IS THE FOUNDATION

Respect is the key to relationship. You show respect by listening, understanding the other person's concerns, and acknowledging their efforts. Efficient relationships cannot exist in an environment where people form quick judgements based on unfounded facts and prejudice. Respect is the very foundation for a great relationship. This also means respecting your self and others.

BE DIRECT

Another important practice is to directly talk to your loved one, co-worker, child, etc. to settle differences. Doing so will help you both work towards a win-win solution. This can be achieved when at least one of you acknowledges the importance of the relationship. Remember, when you fail to express whatever is on your mind, it can get in the way of building an effective relationship.

Relationships are important to everyone. Everyone is connected, very much like the saying "No man is an island."

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Dr. Angela

Seed Money, Part 1

2009-10-28T12:21:00.007-04:00

For years, I've been searching for something I could do online to make some extra money. I have practically every program hyped up to "make millions on online," etc. You get my drift; right?

Anyway, I concluded that most of the problem was mental. The programs worked fine, but I had all kinds of mental blocks keeping me from succeeding. So, I did the only thing any self-respecting self-help blogger would do...I found a book on the subject! Someone once told me "leaders are readers"; I believed it!

The book I found, and the one I want to share with you over my next few blogs, is Seed Money In Action by Dr. Jon Speller and Kathleen Shedaker. As spiritually oriented person, I found this book an eye-opener. For starters, it addresses the guilt some people feel when they expect, want, or need money. For too long people have misquoted the Bible and said that money is evil. Money is not evil; it's just paper! My background would suggest that if I sowed a seed, expecting a harvest, somehow I was "using God." Speller and Shedaker point out on page 13:

"It is very important in order for you to practice Seed Money Principles successfully that you first erase the concept that giving and receiving is 'using God.' You must give in order to receive, but you must also receive in order to give. It is a cycle of Good, no way 'using God', but obeying God's laws."

After this revelation, I put the seed money principles in action last Friday (10/20), and I sowed $200 into someone's life. I consciously created a cycle for good. The next day I did what I thought was a pro-bono seminar for a local church. But guess what? The conference hosts decided to "bless" me with a $200 cash gift! WOW! It hadn't even been 24 hours!

I have to tell you, guys, I'm very excited; because I know--without a doubt--that when practiced correctly Seed Money principles work! I found a great program to help me to continue creating cycles of good and I invite you to join me.

Make Room

2009-10-07T23:48:00.001-04:00

The thought of "making room" has been playing around in my head all day. What does that really mean?

Well, it's a proven fact that if your hand is balled up in a fist nothing can get in it; by the same token, nothing can come out of it either. To receive in that balled up hand you first have to open up or make room for whatever it is you stand to receive.

Making room, from a spiritual standpoint, means:

Cleaning out the negative nooks and crannies in our thought life because thoughts become things.
Replacing and repairing those negative mind posts with positive energy because our worlds are nothing more than manifested thoughts given positive or negative energy.
Having faith that God wants to give to you that which you desire; He just needs you to let go of the old so that He can bring in the new.

This is a huge leap for many of us, because we often become so stuck in our comfort zone we inadvertently turn it into a complacent zone. We are afraid of the unknown and petrified to be, do, or have more than those in our immediate circle because we don't want to be different. The problem with all of that is this: we end up living lives far beneath our potential.

I want a newer car. I've prayed about it, meditated on it, visualized it, and given it to God. Or at least I thought I had until this morning when I felt impressed to sell my car! In other words, make room!

What do you want in your life that you currently don't have? Are you willing to unclentch your fist? Will you make room?

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Dr. Angela

Raise Your Sum & Change Your Life!

2009-09-05T16:06:00.006-04:00

Jack's Book

3 Power Thieves To Get Rid Of Now!

2009-09-04T02:43:00.007-04:00

Six Lessons From The Bucket List

2009-09-02T23:58:00.002-04:00

Roll Over!

2009-08-19T10:51:00.006-04:00

Okay. I admit it. I'm a proud Nana showing off the 4th of my grandsons...Hunter William Johnson! My daughter-in-law, Kristin, sent me this video and it made me think about how much we lose when we become adults. Let me explain. You see how Hunter has discovered he can roll over? Once he figured it out, though, he didn't stop short of rolling because ... What if I can't do it again? What if nobody likes me now that I can roll? What if this is all I'll ever be able to do? What if the other babies call me a 'show off'? Nope! Hunter is just going with the flow and tapping into his natural ability to roll over with a little coaxing from his mom.

What about us? What have you and I figured out that we can do if but for just a little determination? What's holding us back from tapping into our own God-given talents and abilities to make a difference in the world around us? How many times have we just needed a little encouragement to enable us to conquer a brand new world? How often have we "poo-pooed" someone's pep talk and stubbornly stayed stuck? Mmmmmm..........

I believe as we grow older we forget just how much we really can do. We stop discovering and get stuck in mediocrity. So, my friends, my word to you today is this: BE CURIOUS, GO WITH THE FLOW, GET YOURSELF A SUPPORT SYSTEM and just like my grandson, Hunter, let your natural abilities rise up and ROLL OVER!

YES!

2009-08-16T22:37:00.001-04:00

How To Find Your Purpose

2009-08-14T22:19:00.000-04:00

Keep The Glass Full!

2009-08-11T21:01:00.006-04:00

In practically any interpersonal or soft skills seminar I usually talk about the importance of having great self-esteem. So, what is it? Well, it's the way you see your whole self, mentally, physically, and emotionally. Sadly, depending on the lens you're using at the time, that view can oftentimes be askew. Check out some of these statistics that suggest people don't accept themselves the way they are, so they're constantly trying to change something:

According to the Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank, there were over 10 million surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed in 2008, with surgical procedures accounting for approximately 17% of the total, resulting in a 160% increase in the number of procedures since the late 1990's. This startling statistic comes from The Plastic Surgery Group.
80% of American women are dissatisfied with their appearance (Smolak, 1996).

Why do people suffer from low self esteem? While there are many reasons, some individuals suffer from poor body image and focus on all the negative traits of their physical appearance. Others have emotional issues that have caused their self-esteem to drop or feel themselves unworthy of any praise. Go ahead and take the self-esteem test to see where you stand, just remember whatever reasons your self-esteem may falter, the key to building it up again is to find the root of the problem.

Imagine for a moment a glass filled with water, let's call that you filled with positive self-esteem. Now, visualize a pitcher of water, let's call that the fountain of self-esteem. You came into this world filled with good self-esteem, but life keeps happening to deplete you. That's why you have to keep going back to the fountain--you have to keep your glass full. Remember, the only one who can make you excel is you and no one else. The same goes for self-esteem. The only person who can build up—or consequentially tear down—your self-esteem is you. Although other individuals may aide the process, the end decision is yours.

Many individuals look for help for their low self-esteem in books or seminars. The number of available options on the market is phenomenal, and you are sure to find one on a topic that deals with your specific issues. Check out your local library or book store and explore their "self help" section for a book that you may find helpful. Here are a few of my recommendations:

Negativity plays a tremendous role in depleting your self-esteem. Negative thoughts can pervade your confidence and crumble your self-esteem. If you find yourself surrounded by negative people or in a negative situation, try to best remedy the problem. Often, individuals in a abusive relationship have their self-esteem shattered when a supposed loved one constantly berates them and questions their worth. Similarly, a negative workplace environment can lower your self-esteem with colleagues or bosses finding fault with your work. Maybe you have a friend who is consistently negative with all surrounding him or her. Whatever the source, distancing yourself from the negativity will help you re-fill your glass of self-esteem. Strive to surround yourself with positive people. If you are going through a rough time in your personal life, you may wish to join a support group. Similarly, there are support groups available for individuals with self image issues. These groups will allow you to meet other individuals like yourself and provide a forum for you to sound your hopes and achievements.

However you choose to begin building your self-esteem, do so today! Be thorough and consistent with the process and be aware it may take a while. You should not become impatient or despondent if you find your self esteem slipping. Remember, you are an important and worthy person and should treat yourself as such.

Keep the glass full!

The Gift of Change

2009-08-10T19:43:00.000-04:00

How to Get Unstuck

2009-08-09T18:18:00.006-04:00

Are you stuck? Do you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again? This quick 6-minute video will help.

Get the books:

What Do You Believe...Really?

2009-08-08T01:20:00.003-04:00

A friend of mine has a saying, "What you believe governs how you behave." Think about it for a moment and let it sink in, because it is soooo true! Watch this!

No Seed...No Harvest!

2009-08-05T19:34:00.007-04:00

Have you ever met someone that you knew needed help but they were too smart to know it, so they just dismissed you and/or your advice?

I see it all the time...people attending my seminars because they want to, say, learn how to be a more effective leader. They walk in with the expectation that all it will take is six hours with me, and presto, changeo, bam--all better! That is so not reality!

Growing is a process, and growth occurs through certain strategic moves on the part of the one who plants the seeds. I'm no gardener, but I believe the process goes something like this:

Get the soil ready.
Select the seed.
Plant the seed.
Water the seed on a continually basis.
Check and pull weeds periodically.
Wait patiently for the cycle of growth to run its course
Enjoy the end result, i.e., a rose bush, window sill herbs, hyacinths, etc.

Oftentimes, people want to skip all of the processes and go from seedtime to harvest. And when I tell them it's not going to happen like that, they dismiss it! I explain that real leaders read and invest in themselves to assist in the growth process. They look at me and say, "Well, I can't do that if my boss doesn't approve it!" WAKE UP! Your life is yours! Your career is yours! Your growth (or lack thereof) is also yours!

Listen, if you want something different then do something different. Quick whining and complaining about how unfair life is and how you're always mistreated, overlooked, abused, misused and whatever! You cannot and you will not get the harvest as long as you're unwilling to plant the seed!

style="font-size:0pt;">Until next blog, Dr. A aka "The Purpose Professor" http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com/ "Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Choose to Get Over Your Past!

2009-08-03T17:09:00.005-04:00

If you're still nursing a wound of failure ... you've got to see this!

Protecting Your Hot Button

2009-08-02T14:34:00.002-04:00

Ever wondered how you can effectively deal with those people who like to press your hot button? Here are 4 ways to keep your sanity!

Doggone It! You're Good Enough!

2009-08-01T15:55:00.007-04:00

Saturday Night Live is one of my all-time favorite shows. Last year's Sarah Palin spoofs were hiliarious! The thing about SNL is sometimes you can even learn something if you pay close attention.

For example, remember Al Franken's character, Stuart Smalley, looking into a mirror affirming, "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough and doggone it, people like me!" So many people pooh-pooh the idea of affirmations; however, I've learned that what you say to yourself matters more than what others say to you. Why? Because your voice and your opinion carry the greatest weight in your subconscious mind.

Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar said, “The most influential person who will talk to you all day is you, so you should be very careful about what you say to you.” Wow! What are you saying to yourself all day? Most of us cannot answer that question. I know I couldn't until I started to pay attention. Imagine my horror to hear myself saying things like, "stupid me!" or "I'm so crazy."

To those of you who're saying, "Dr. A, I'm just playing. I don't mean those things. Girlfriend, you just need to lighten up!", did you know that Proverbs 26:18-19 says, "Just as damaging as a madman shooting a deadly weapon is someone who lies to a friend and then says, 'Iwas only joking."' Think about this: if a lie to a friend is a deadly weapon, what about the lies you speak to yourself in the form of negative self-talk? So here's a three step process I learned from one of my mentors, Jack Canfield, that I want to share with you to help you monitor your negative self-talk:

Identify your negative self-talk
Cancel that negative self-talk
Replace the negative self-talk with positive self-talk (that's where affirmations come into play)

I teach this in some of my seminars when we talk about self-confidence and self-esteem. You see, it's important what we say about ourselves and think about ourselves. Yet, most of us are going around in a negative self-created cloud unable to realize our goals and dreams because we are in our own way.

To anchor this behavior, I've put together a quick little video from one of my seminars to show you how to do this. Have fun with this. (It's not the best video quality. It was jerky, but you can still get the essence of it).

And remember ... You're good enough. You're smart enough, and doggone it, people like ya!

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"
Dr. A
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com/

C+I+A=S

2009-07-23T19:27:00.016-04:00

One of my new favorite authors is Stuart Wilde. I've been reading his book The Trick to Money Is Having Some and my inspiration for this post comes from Stuart. Stuart said on page 167, "I know that in old religions it is popular to think that God is up there pulling strings, deciding who's going to make it and who isn't. But that idea is tribal and childlike. The fact is, the Great Spirit is impartial and allows us to be as silly as we want to be for as long as we want. It does not decide for us. People who have clarity and intention make it in life, those who lack those qualities usually don't make it. It is as simple as that."

Clarity defined is being clear about something. If we are to achieve any level of success in our personal and professional lives, it's going to take clarity. Are you clear about your life and the kind of legacy you'd like to leave behind? What will you be remembered for? It's going to depend on the clarity you have right now ... or the lack thereof!

Intention is just as important as clarity. I think Stuart put those two words together to emphasize the importance of determination. And that makes good sense to me! Think about it, you can be crystal clear about what you want, but if you lack the determination to take action you're no different than the famous frogs on the lily pad story I often hear in seminars. It goes like this: 3 frogs were sitting on a lily pad. 1 decided to jump. How many were left on the lily pad? The answer? Three! You see, deciding and jumping are two different things.

The last part of this equation is action. Unfortunately, that's where many of us fizzle out! I know I do, sometimes! Like the frog, I'm still deciding instead of doing. Too afraid to just do something! But to overcome this, we simply have to do it afraid! In the words of Nike: "Just Do It!" Because I'm a big fan, my next read to help in this area is Do it Afraid!: Obeying God in the Face of Fear. I'll give you my thoughts on it after I read it.

Do you want real, tangible success? Follow this simple equation and watch your life explode with success: C (Clarity) + I (Intention) + A (Action) = S (Success).

Until next post,
Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"
"Life with no purpose is no life at all"
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com/

Get Yourself A System

2009-07-21T08:12:00.007-04:00

I heard a very wealthy person once say that to achieve any real level of success in our lives, we needed to have a blueprint -- a system. Then he went on to say a S-Y-S-T-E-M means: Save Yourself Time Energy and Money. However, most of us are constantly reinventing the wheel and working hard not smart because we don't have a system. Consequently, we don't see the value of a good book or an audio program designed to help accelerate our personal and professional growth.

Has anyone recommended a good book to you lately? Have you gotten an invite to a seminar or been invited to listen to a informational CD? I know you have because we are constantly being exposed to ways to change our lives; sadly, most of us are too busy to realize that the help we so desperately need keeps showing up -- we just don't recognize it!

Use the acrostic S-Y-S-T-E-M to increase your awareness and to put yourself on the fast track to living a purposefully rewarding life. The next time one of those books, invites, CDs or DVDs shows up, ask yourself if I read/listen/watch this is there a remote possibility that I may learn something that can save me time, energy and/or money? If the answer is yes, buy that dang book, listen to CD, and take the time to watch the DVD. Then put whatever you learned into action and watch your personal and professional life change for the better.

Remember ... "Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

The Power of Choice

2009-07-18T09:40:00.002-04:00

Wow! I just finished listening to one of my mentors, Jonathan Budd, talking about the concept of self-worth, value and leadership. It was powerful and it made me think about the idea of choice.

In the end, our lives will all boil down to the choices we've made -- little choices like passing on that "sure-fire-gonna-make-you-rich-now" idea of your uncle's which turned out to be a ponzie scheme. Big choices like marrying him or her because no one else caused that lump to form in your throat or your heart to skip a beat like that. Medium choices like picking up a certain book from some obscure author that has revolutionized your life. Choices!

What all this means then, my friends, is that we must be careful with our choices, because like I said... in the end our lives will all boil down to the choices we've made!

Peace,
Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"
Life On Purpose LLC

Does Silence Have A Purpose?

2009-07-17T14:22:00.004-04:00

In a world of iPhones, video blogs, Facebook, Twitter, MySpace -- all designed to get information to you f-a-s-t -- I think it's safe to say that we are a busy and noisy society. Plus, we are a very communicative society; we like to talk! So have you ever noticed how irritating silence can be? Or how much it bothers us when no one is talking? Or when we don't get that person on the phone immediately? Or ______ -- you just fill in the blank! It all boils down to noise. We like noise.

Is there a purpose in silence? I think so. In fact, I believe that learning to be silent is a prerequisite for learning how to listen. Because we like noise and we like to make noise, oftentimes we just flat out don't listen. To help us reframe our thoughts on silence, I offer you this tip: Cease to think of silence as irritating and start to think of silence as active listening.

Active listening defined is learning to tune in to the person speaking. An even broader definition is learning to tune in to our environment which may or may not include a person. Make a note of the five steps of active listening:

Ask yourself what is the real content here?
Ask yourself what is the real intent here?
Pay attention to the nonverbal cues of the person you're listening to.
Pay attention to your own nonverbal cues -- what vibes are you sending off?
Listen just to listen -- discard judgments and be emphathetic

When we learn to listen actively utilizing the five steps we will discover that silence does, indeed, have a purpose!

Until next post,

Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

One Way To Deal With Change

2009-07-15T18:53:00.000-04:00

I'm sure you know as well as I that change is inevitable, it's continuous and it cannot be ignored. That being said, why is it so difficult for us to deal with it?

Well, this is certainly not a scientific answer, but I think we are such creatures of habit until we just hate disturbing the status quo. The vast majority of us do certain things a certain way all of the time. To suggest doing those things differently is to upset our apple cart, so to speak, and we resist it.

Maybe change wouldn't be so hard to deal with if we were to examine and adjust (change?) our view and attitude. Let me explain, change has the potential to bring some wonderful opportunities into our lives. For example, losing a job could result in someone going back to school and getting a degree.

So, here's one little tidbit of information to help you handle change more effectively: find a way to focus on the gift inherent in the change, rather than the negativity attached to it. Evaluate the change and determine how will it affect you. This will help to remove the emotionalism and replace it with rationalism.

Change happens, but it's up to us to see the potential otherwise we're sure to fall into the pothole!

The Art of Self-Discipline

2009-07-13T21:11:00.000-04:00

If you recall, I blogged a few months ago about small changes making a big difference. Well, I have to admit that I failed to follow my own advice after a while, and that same principle started to work adversely! My small change was a large Peanut Butter Avalanche every day from The Dairy Bar. In a matter of one month, I packed on a whopping 10 pounds! It certainly made a big difference! So that's what leads me to today's blog post -- self-discipline.

Self-discipline takes a made up mind. Speakers and trainers often refer to Benjamin Franklin and his famous 13 virtues he committed to work on all of his life. Key word committed. You may be familiar with his story, but here goes in case you're not. A young Franklin first pinpointed his weaknesses then he set out to strengthen them. His thinking was left unchecked his weaknesses would ultimately lead to a life of failure. How true!

Deciding the qualities most important to cultivate, he created a daily log and focused on a different virtue every week. His list: Temperance, Silence, Order, Resolution, Frugality, Industry, Sincerity, Justice, Moderation, Cleanliness, Tranquility, Chastity and Humility. Then he set out to work on that virtue, ultimately seeking to have a "check-free" record each week which signified his success at practicing that particular virtue. It's been said that Franklin is the father of self-improvement. He certainly set the tone for self-discipline.

What Ben Franklin teaches us is this:

We can change
We have to stay focused on what we want to change
Self-discipline is an art to be practiced, otherwise the habit of failure will kick in

Hey, I'm preaching to me today, friends! Are you up for the challenge of perfecting this art form? I am!

Until next post,

Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

The Power of Forgiveness

2009-07-12T21:53:00.001-04:00

I preached a sermon once called, Forgiveness: From Scabs to Scars based on the very graphic illustration of picking at a wound and not allowing it to heal. When we leave it alone it scabs over and heals itself naturally, then the scab falls off leaving a scar. The scar says, "I got wounded, but I'm healed and it doesn't hurt anymore!" How many of us, though, keep picking at the wound refusing to let it heal?

The other side to that is choosing to forgive, to let something go and move on. Those of you who follow me on Twitter and Facebook know that I'm shouting from the rooftop about my uncle, Ronald Cotton and his new book, Picking Cotton. You also know that Uncle Ron was positively identifed as a rapist. He spent 11 years in the NC prison system before DNA helped to free him.

What impresses me most about my uncle is his ability to forgive. He could have been a bitter man, and hated Jennifer Thompson-Cannino (the woman who accused him). Think about it. Because of her positive I.D. and eye-witness testimony he spent 11 years in jail. Instead, he forgave her. He let the wound turn into a scab so that it could turn into a scar. His forgiveness has been so powerful it has perpelled them into a world neither of them ever thought they would be in, i.e., motivational speakers, best-selling authors, and friends.

Who do you need to forgive? Yeah, I know it hurt. Yeah, I know you can't believe they would do something like that to you -- but they did -- they wounded you. But will you keep picking at it or will you let it scab over so that it can become a scar ... a badge of honor, if you will, that says, "Hey, World! I got hurt, but I got over it!"

Until next post,
Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"
"Life with no purpose is no life at all"

Plug In Your G.P.S.!

2009-07-10T12:59:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, I travel a great deal. I would be lost (literally) without my handy Garmin Nuvi. Whenever I'm in a state and city I know very little about, I just put in an address and within a matter of seconds Nuvi begins to direct to my destination. How cool!

Well, what about life's destinations, otherwise known as goals? Where do you want to go in your life? How will you get there? I'm a big Brian Tracy fan and in his program, The Psychology of Achievement, he says that "less than 3 percent of Americans have written goals, and less than 1 percent review and rewrite their goals on a daily basis." In other words, 97-98 percent of us (if you're American) have no clue as to where we're going. We're just going -- moving along in life without a real destination. Then we find ourselves in the "coulda, shoulda, woulda" mindset looking back over a life partially lived. Oh, we might grow older but in many ways without goals we're stuck. How sad.

So, my friends, here's some inspiration for you today: plug up your G.P.S., your Goal Pointing System. Sit down and decide where you'd like to go in your life. What would you like to accomplish? Write it down. Review it. Revise it. And watch your life change!

Until next blog,
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"
Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

How do YOU define success?

2009-07-08T23:43:00.000-04:00

I know a few successful people ... or do I? Well, I think it all depends on your definition of success. Was Steve McNair successful? Michael Jackson? What about Sara Palin? President Barack Obama? What about you?

Does the size of your bank account and the cars parked in your garage measure your success? I think those kinds of things are the trappings, but true success comes from within -- who are you really when the world is not looking.

The question stems from a conversation I had with one of my sons. He reminded me that when they were little, I made sure that they knew their grandparents and great grandparents. Even though I was a single mom living in Texas, every year they spent time with both sides of their family. He put success in perspective when he said, "Mom, you gave us such a gift ... the gift of knowing our grandparents."

It made me think about success and what it really means to me, and it's this:

"Living every day without regret and taking every opportunity to make real connections -- connections with family, connections with friends, and even connections with strangers. Success is lying down at night, grateful for the chance to live, learn, and love just because."

And yes, Michael Jackson was successful -- Paris proved that to the world yesterday!

What say ye?

Until next post,
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"
Dr. Angela

The Attractor Factor

2009-07-06T18:51:00.000-04:00

I just finished reading Joe Vitale's The Attractor Factor and I can't say enough good things about it. Talk about "life-altering"!

Here's a little tip I want to pass on to you from Joe's book... Get clear of old events, hurts, memories and beliefs (p. 155). Joes says that getting clear gives you more energy to attract what you really want out of life. Now, let me tell you how this one concept helped me.

For a while I've struggled with money, i.e., not having enough of it! Last year was ... well ... I don't even want to go there. Anyway, Joe suggested that I write down how I felt things were. He suggested using all my emotion and describing the pain, the hurts, all of the "stuff". When I did this, I started crying and really began to feel all of that negativity. Then, on Joe's suggestion, I wrote how I wanted things to be. It was descriptive and I made it real. I could see my checking account deposits. I imagined eating out and leaving a huge tip because I have more than enough. After I finished, I went outside and took the first one, set it on fire, and watched it burned. WOW! This exercise was so liberating!

From that day (about two weeks ago), I noticed my entire attitude had changed. I am happier in my seminars. I am drawing positive, upbeat, and enlightened people to me. And .... drum roll, please--money is coming to me like never before. For example, I checked my account and found out that I had made an unexpected $600 in commissions from a job.

Joe's book will help you become deliberate about your own personal development. Run, don't walk, get a copy today and change your life!

Until next blog,

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"
Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

The Challenge of Delegation

2009-06-08T20:04:00.001-04:00

General George S. Patton once said, "Don't tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and let them surprise you with the results." For most of us, however, our mantra is: "If I want it done right, I have to do it myself!" Right? Wrong!

Here's a quick tip I picked up from a little book called Managing People - Secrets to Leading for New Managers. When you delegate, give instructions not orders. Instructions silently say to the person you've giving them to, "Hey, I believe that you're capable of participating, learning, and doing. I also want you to have a say in how things are done." Orders on the other hand also send a silent message, and it goes something like this: "There's only one way to do this, and it's my way! Your independent thinking is neither needed nor will it be accepted."

Wow! What a difference, right? This is the point, as the delegator we should focus on results -- getting the project done. Think of all the benefits of adopting this delegation technique:

Thanks to you, the delegatee becomes more capable of doing more
You and your delegatee experience higher rates of productivity
You gain the time and freedom to focus on more pressing activities

Looks like a win-win for everyone!

Until next post remember, "Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Vision - How Do You See It?

2009-04-09T22:54:00.002-04:00

You know the old adage about some seeing the glass half-empty while others see it half-full? The point being your vision is nothing more than a filtered perspective. Whatever we create, whatever vision we have for ourselves--personally and professionally--must always make its way through the filters we have crafted to keep us safe.

This became apparent to me in one of my seminars on Public Speaking. Every person that signs up for this seminar has this in common: they are fearful and have very little confidence in their abilities to stand and speak in front of others. You see, their fear is the vision they hold of themselves. How did it become their fear? (emphasis on their to indicate ownership). It became their fear as they continually passed the idea of public speaking through preset filters. Those filters may have been created from a past experience where they felt scared, pre-judged or ignorant. With those kinds of filters in place, it's little wonder that the vision is one of fear and trepidation.

The only way to change the vision is to replace the filter. And the only way to replace the filter is to acknowledge that it exist. This helps to explain the sound advice of the Proverb that states: "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Think about it. People are perishing or living beneath their priviledge because their filters keep them from even having a vision of a life different from the one they have right now. One filter can make the difference between poverty and prosperity; love and hate; happiness and sadness -- you get my point, right?

What is your vision? How do you see it? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? What filters do you have in place keeping you safely in your little corner when there's so much you could experience if you were to venture out?

I know. I know. I'm bombarding you with a lot of questions! Now, take a few minutes and answer them, and be completely honest with yourself. Afterall, this is your life and you don't want to perish now do you?

Remember,
Life with no purpose is no life at all!
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com

Blessings,
Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

Six Techniques to Avoid Distractions

2009-04-08T19:21:00.000-04:00

Let's face it, distractions are designed to take you away from the task at hand which generally means ... time waster!

Here are a few techniques to help you avoid becoming distracted:

Ask yourself, "What is the real issue?" Whenever we give in to a distraction, we are avoiding completing the task we're working on. For example, I'm working on getting ready to teach a new seminar topic for one of my clients. When my sister calls and I decide to talk to her for an hour, I need to ask myself "why?" Is it because I don't like preparation time (propably). You have to get to the root cause.
Ask yourself, "Does this distraction fit into the priorities I've set for myself today?" Sometimes a distraction is a good thing, but if it adds to the task you're working on.
Do you like mini-diversions, you know, little breaks from what you're doing? Again, be real! My sister has a new love interest, and the truth is that I want to know what's going on, so I welcome her calls.
Before giving in to a distraction ask yourself, "What do I stand to lose if I give in to this distraction?"
Remember, just because it seems urgent doesn't mean that it really is urgent! Don't get sucked in to someone else's priority.
Be flexible, and change your priorities if you feel that this distraction warrants a higher priority than what you may be doing.

So, if you want to live and work in a stress-free environment, take control of your distractions and don't let distractions take control of you!

Until next blog,

Dr. Angela

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Five Steps to Overcoming Overcommitment

2009-04-07T22:04:00.000-04:00

I teach people how to manage their time, and one of the biggest culprits to mismanaged time is overextending or overcommitting.

This is the definition: Trying to get more done than there are hours in a day to do. Here's my simple test to help you determine if you are overcommitted: "no" does not exist in your vocabulary! If that's you, help has arrived as long as you will commit to following these five simple steps:

Write down everything you have committed to, both personal and professional.
Write down everything you should be doing, but -- because of overcommittment -- cannot do.
Go over your first list realistically and decide, based on your available time and your priorities, what should you really be doing.
Come up with a way to get out of all the things you identified in step #3.
Commit to a specific time to begin each of the items you identified in step #2.

Remember this: "Devoting a little of yourself to everything means committing a great deal of yourself to nothing."

Two great resources to help you manage your time:

Prioritize, Organize - The Art of Getting It Done by National Seminars Group (National Press Publications.
Work Less, Do More - The 14-Day Productivity Makeover by Dr. Jan Yager

The key to managing your time begins with a decision to do just that!

Until next blog,

Dr. Angela

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Slow Down

2009-04-06T20:28:00.000-04:00

Peace to you!

A short blog today.

Sometimes we move so quickly through life -- rushing here, dashing there -- everybody's in a hurry. Well, today I want to remind you to take it easy. Really. Take the time to appreciate the sunset. Stop and inspect all the newness that this new season is bringing: buds on the trees, native birds returning, squirrels trying to figure out how to steal the bird seed, Easter lilies, the grass turning green ... my list could go on. Busyness can rob us of the beauty of the simple. If you want to release some stress, lower your blood pressure, and lift your attitude, slow down! I guarantee you this: you won't miss a thing and it will be there when you get there!

Until next blog,

Dr. Angela
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

You Really can C-A-N!

2009-04-02T22:01:00.000-04:00

Here's an encouraging thought for you: whatever you think you can do, you CAN do!

Mahatma Gandhi once said, "“Men often become what they believe themselves to be. If I believe I cannot do something, it makes me incapable of doing it. But when I believe I can, then I acquire the ability to do it even if I didn't have it in the beginning.”

CAN is such an empowering word because it speaks of ability. Don't you just love that word "ability"? Your "able to do"! From that perspective, we CAN dream and achieve. We CAN keep going when we want to give up. We CAN stay focused when we want to wander. We CAN apologize when we want to remain angry. We CAN get outside of our comfort zone even though no one else has done it before! With CAN the world becomes our playground! I believe that's why President Obama's simple campaign slogan, "Yes, we can!" was so powerful. Every time people chanted those three one-syllable words, emphasis on CAN, they were reinforcing their ableness (I made that word up) to do it -- to turn this country around, to make life better for their children, to recover this country's greatness, to dream and achieve again.

Can only becomes a limitation when we add the word "not". So, I challenge you to start thinking and speaking on purpose about what you CAN do. Think of this way: every time you hear that thought of can't and decide to turn it into CAN, you just decided to Counter All Negativity! Yes, you really can C-A-N!

Until next blog,

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Dr. Angela

Small Changes, Big Differences

2009-03-26T12:28:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've blogged. Don't worry! I won't give you a bunch of excuses as to why.

This blog has to do with an extraordinarily simple concept: small changes over time make big differences. I know. I know. Some of you are reading this and going, "Duh!" Indulge me, okay? I knew it, too; at least from a mental standpoint. It just took me some time to implement it. So, here's what I did.

Back in December I celebrated a birthday. (None of your business which one!) I decided to move my body at least 20 minutes 6 days a week ... a small change. Well, it's March and here's my big difference--drum roll, please--I've dropped an entire dress size! My clothes fit better, and I feel better.

Here's another example. I bank at Bank of America and signed up for their "Keep the Change" savings program. Every time you use your debit card, BofA rounds up the charge and puts the change into a savings account. Well, in less than 2 weeks I noticed I had accumulated a little over $7. It's small change, but over time it will make a big difference.

So, what small change are you willing to make? Just a few suggestions, how about:

Getting off your bus stop or subway stop one stop earlier and walking every day?
Drinking one more glass of water than you normally do every day?
Getting up 5 minutes earlier every day so that you can have some quiet time to meditate and center yourself.
Moving your body 20 minutes a day

This is the point. If you and I make up our minds to do something, then by definition we are doing that thing on purpose. However, oftentimes our zeal and excitement lasts for about a week, then it's back to the same old, same old. Just make a small change. Don't upset your life or routine too much. Then before you know it, right before your eyes, you'll see the fruit of that small change ... you will experience a BIG DIFFERENCE!

Until next blog,

Dr. Angela reminding you: "Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Day 10 of the Purposeful Gratitude Project

2008-12-15T22:17:00.000-05:00

Last night I was pooped! I went to bed without blogging. So as not to make that mistake again, here's my list before I retire for the evening. Today I am grateful for:

The staff at Dunkin Donuts in Windsor. They are nice people, pleasant, and willing to help with a smile. They exemplify great customer service.
Watching my birthday party CD from 2006. It reminded me to dream with my eyes opened.
A dry basement! It's taken about a month to get it damp-free and odor-free, but it is now and that puts a huge smile on my face!
How God gave me a first class trip! I stayed at the Hyatt and drove a 2008 Red Mustang all because God provided. Thank You, LORD!
Freedom to do whatever I want to do. I don't have to answer to a boss, punch a clock, or get permission to take off. Life is good!

Day 8 of The Purposeful Gratitude Project

2008-12-13T23:22:00.000-05:00

I managed to miss Thursday and Friday blogging my gratefulness ... I apologize! I'm back on track, though. Here goes:

Today I am grateful for:

Birthdays. Today is mine! I won't tell the universe my age, but I am happy to celebrate another birthday. It's been a great day filled with well wishes from family, friends, cards, and a yummy coconut cake. I grew up with a young lady named Vanessa. Vanessa died from lupus at the tender age of 22. I always think about how God has blessed me to live more than twice as long as Vanessa, and I often wonder why me and not her. I can't answer that, but suffice it to say I am truly grateful for this day.
Mom. My custom is to call my mom on my birthday to say "thank you". I do this because I think birthdays are more about the choice a mother made to give life. So to my own children, I expect three calls in 2009, God willing. :-)
Opportunity. I am grateful that God always opens doors of opportunity for us, even when we don't readily recognize them. Once we do, our job is to walk through. I'm walking!
Birds. We have a bird feeder in the backyard, and it's been too cold for the birds to visit. Well, we had a visitor this week and it put a smile on my face to watch my little furry friend feast without effort.
Laughter. It's a wonderful thing to be able to laugh. Laughter, according to the Bible, is merry medicine. Today has been filled with laughter. Andrew, my middle grandson, gave me a big laugh because he just flatly refused to sing on the phone. Even though I cajoled him repeatedly to sing to his nana, he said, "Hey, I said Happy Birthday, Nana. That's all I can do."

Stay grateful,

Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

Day 7 of the Purposeful Gratitude Project

2008-12-10T22:06:00.000-05:00

Today marks a week into this project, and I have found that deciding to be positive has had some decidedly positive effects on me. I've noticed that I look for uplifting moments more. What about you? How's this project defining and/or redefining you?

Well, here is my list for today:

I am grateful for God's blessings that allow me to be a blessing. It's true, it's great to give and I thank God for giving me blessings to pass on to others.
I am grateful for the ability to smile. I used to feel self-conscious and hide my smile. Now I grin all the time, and I realize that my smile brings joy to others ... strangers and friends and family. It cost nothing but it's priceless!
I am grateful for the Word of God. I notice that when I speak His Word as I've done today, I feel better. I just believe it's working on the inside, growing my faith. LORD, thank You for leaving me Your Word to change my world and the world at large.
I am grateful for music. I love the sound of instruments and it's so amazing how God gave man the ability to create instruments that make wonderful sounds of praise to Him.
I am grateful for my daughters of destiny ... Andi, Katie, Saundra, Michelle, Patress, Mercedes. These young women are precious, and it is an honor to be able to share life with them. They are strong and resilient young women and having them in my life makes me a better person

Day 6 of the Gratitude Project

2008-12-09T23:14:00.000-05:00

I will dismiss with the prelude today, here's my list of the 5 things I am grateful today:

Thought provoking conversation. I have a friend in Colorado, and she has one of the sharpest minds of any person on earth. I love talking to her because she always says something that makes me think. People with great minds are to be commended for using them. So, today I give thanks for all the people in the world who can hold an intelligent conversation.
Focus. Today I made an effort to stay focused, and I got things done. Need I say more?
Mail. I received a letter yesterday that put a smile on my face.
Warm weather. According to the Weather Channel, it will be 54 degrees tomorrow. Yes!
Education. It is a blessing to be able to learn new things. Awesome!

Until tomorrow,

Dr. Angela Massey aka "The Purpose Professor"

Day 5 of the Gratitude Project

2008-12-08T22:38:00.000-05:00

Happiness researchers? Did you know there was such a thing? Well, there is! It's probably not as popular an area of study as the greenhouse effect, but I think it's interesting that people have actually studied the effect of gratitude on happiness. Are you happier because you're grateful? Do grateful people have better attitudes than ungrateful people? Mm mm.....

All I can tell you is while running my own unofficial happiness research, I've discovered that I am happier. Fluke, you say? I think not! You see, as I've consciously appreciated people, ideals, concepts, places, and things, it has become harder for me to stay in a blue funk pass 5 minutes. Okay, so it's not scientific, but it works for me! So I'm happy to share my gratitude list for today:

Computers. My first experience with a computer happened back in 1982 when I went to work for IBM. It was love at first sight and first use. The very idea of being able to communicate with the world at the click of a key is a blessing. I can write my sons in Texas, read Kristin's blog, post my own blog, meet and make new friends, shop in my pj's, and mail packages without leaving home. Oh yeah, I love my computer.
Sweaters. It's 12 degrees here today. I've pulled out all of my warm clothes, and I found one of my favorite sweaters. It has a black and white geometric pattern, looks good over my black turtleneck and black pants. It's practical, yet stylish. Sweaters of great pieces to have in your wardrobe.
Mom's talking better! Mom called today and she spoke so clearly. I am grateful that she is getting better and better every day.
An unexpected blessing. For no apparent reason someone paid my cell phone bill.
Shug. I was cleaning my office today and found a card my sister sent me a couple of weeks ago. It was a "Sister" card and sent just because. Her real name is Cathy, and she's my little sister. Shug is my vault. She holds my secrets, my fears, my joys, and every now and again she'll even let me complain. I love you, Shug!

What are you grateful for?

Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

Day 4 of The Gratitude Project

2008-12-07T23:28:00.000-05:00

Typically church is about being grateful, and today's service was no exception. One of our choirs, Judah Ensemble, sang Hezekiah Walker's song, "Grateful". As I listened to it, I was flooded with just how grateful I am for being able to be grateful. To some, that may sound like double-talk; however, when I think about the fact that I can feel this emotion ... well ... it's awesome! So first on my list of things I am grateful for today:

Emotions. It is amazing that humans were created to feel love, sadness, passion, etc. I'm glad I'm a human because I can articulate what I'm feeling at any given moment.
Hugs. It's been said that we need 12 hugs a day to stay healthy. I don't get 12 every day, so I relish the days that I do. Today was one of those days!
Being Missed. Yesterday was my first day back at church after visiting family for the last 2 weeks (first New Jersey then Texas). My church family genuinely missed me and I was greeted with smiles, hugs, and love.
Words of Encouragement. Someone told me that things were going to get better and I could count on. They just wanted to encourage me, and I appreciate that!
Old Friends. I moved to Connecticut almost 15 years ago. I knew no one, but today I have some close friends that befriended me when I got here. They've been with me through divorce, going back to school at 40 something, the birth of 3 grandchildren, moving from one city to another, my mom's health issues, and the list goes on. Real friends are priceless. Thank You, LORD, for my friends.

Day 3 of The Purposeful Gratitude Project

2008-12-06T11:32:00.000-05:00

While running errands this morning, I drove through our small town thinking about what 5 things I would show gratitude for today. I kept thinking about all of the challenges going on in my life and I realized that gratitude truly is something we have to purposefully decide to be, do, and have. My mind was running through the long list of "woe-is-me-isms" (I made that up!). I had to deliberately do what Philippians 4:8 tells us to do: "Finally, brothers and sisters, keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable, or commendable." (God's Word Translation 1995). Considering the struggle today, I am sure that God wants my obedience so that He can change my oft-times "stinking thinking"!

Today, I am grateful for:

Our mailman. Yep, you read it right! John brings the mail with such a positive attitude. I ran into him on the streets one day and he knew me. He wanted to know how I was doing. He asked about my family. In other words, he took the time to let me know that I'm more than a house number on a street in an envelope with my name on it. I am another human being and he honors that. Awesome!
WIHS. This is our local Christian radio station. I appreciate the programming and how it always ministers to me when I need it most.
Deacon Billings. He's my 71-year-old god-father, and because he is so loving and caring to everyone he meets,. People actually choose him to father them. You see, I made him my god-father about 3 years ago, and so have 4 other people I can think of at this moment. He never judges you and he always listens.
People who go out of their way to lift my spirits. Sometimes that stinky attitude of negativity looms over us like dark clouds. I appreciate people who smile, and make it their business to get me to smile before I leave their presence.
Life. We lost a dear member in our church last week. She was full of life, but suddenly she was gone. It made me think about just how precious waking up and doing what I do is ... life is precious and I hope to take nothing for granted any more.

What about you? What are you grateful for today?

Blessings,

Dr. Angela aka "The Purpose Professor"

Day 2 of The Purposeful Gratitude Project

2008-12-05T09:18:00.000-05:00

Gratitude, according to Wikipedia, is "a positive emotion or attitude in acknowledgment of a benefit that one has received or will receive." I like that word acknowledgement because it suggest an understanding of personal recognition shared outward. It's like, "I know this and now I want to tell someone else what I know." In regards to being thankful, I know this. I know that I am a very blessed woman and I want to take a moment to tell God Thank You! So here's my list for today:

Today I am grateful for:

My father. My dad loving takes care of my wheel-chair bound mom. He's not in the greatest shape himself, but he makes sure she's comfortable. Every time I visit them in Jersey, and watch him with her, I am reminded of what my mother really meant when she used to say, "love is what love does."
Jessie. Jessie is one of my prayer partners who is away on vacation in Florida, but she thought about the Sisterin' (my prayer group) and surprised us with a phone call. Jessie is the kind of person who acts on her instincts ... she did this morning, and it was a delightful gesture.
Ideas. These days my mind seems to be overflowing with ideas, thoughts, dreams, goals, visions. I attribute this to making the commitment to this project. I believe I have opened up my world because the ideas for book projects, client marketing, etc. just keep coming!
Kind strangers. I stopped to get gas and this gentleman not only waited for me to get to the door, he opened it for me, and greeted me with the warmest smile. It prompted me to do the same for a lady who came into the store as I was leaving. It felt great.
Adrian. I got a letter from him yesterday and it made me smile. May the love I feel for him go through the Cosmos and find him in SC and whisper, "Mom loves you!"

Day 1 of The Purposeful Gratitude Project

2008-12-04T13:05:00.000-05:00

Today, I am grateful for ...

1. My beautiful 4-month old grandson, Malachi Anthony Cotton. I saw him for the first time during the Thanksgiving holidays. I was awed by how this little person represents so many generations of Cottons -- my deceased Grandfather (James Cotton) a man with little education, but a persistence and commitment to taking care of his family in the best of times and in the worst of times. And what about my mom (Dorothy Cotton Johnson) ... she sits in a wheelchair these days, able to speak few complete sentences and needing help to go to the bathroom. However, in Malachi I see her ... her smile, her love for our family. And then there's my son, Malachi's dad (Aaron Anthony Cotton). Aaron is the youngest of my three sons, and was always a calm spirit. Little Malachi possesses that same calmness. So today I say to God, "Thank You! Thank You for Malachi Anthony Cotton.

2. New England weather! I've come to appreciate seasons, and it occurred to me today that seasons signal change. We often complain about it being too hot or too cold, but without those atmospheric changes germs would kill us. My trees are bare of leaves, expectant of the first snow and as I look out my office window, all is well!

3. My car! I love my car so much I named it "Faith". My car is faithful. It starts when I want it to and it takes me where I need to go.

4. Hot water. Could you imagine what life was like before water was heated and came out of a faucet?

5. My neighbor's Christmas decorations! We haven't gotten into the spirit of the holiday as much as I would like, so I was happy to see the lights, the reindeer, and the sign in my neighbor's yard that says, "Santa, you can stop here!"

What are you grateful for?

Dr. Angela Massey aka The Purpose Professor

27 Days of Purposeful Gratitude

2008-12-04T12:45:00.000-05:00

I had a dream last night about posting a Gratitude Project on the web. At first I thought I would create a website, but it occurred to me this blog would suffice.

Why am I doing this?

1. To create a higher level of consciousness. Here's what I mean, the holiday season can be a very depressing time of the year, especially when you're away from family, going through economic hardships, etc. It's so easy to focus on the negatives when it feels like your life is spinning out of control. I speak from experience on this one! Mom had a debilitating stroke, I lost a major account, my children live 1,850 miles from me ... and the list goes on. You get the point, right?

What better way to re-focus all that negativity than to spend a few moments every day and consciously thinking about all of the things we can be grateful for? Are you game?

2. To create a space for the good. I'm tired of mediocrity! Author Catherine Ponder in her book The Dynamic Laws of Prosperity talks about creating a vacuum and cleaning out spaces so that you signal to the Universe "Hey! I'm ready for the wonderful life You have for me. See, I've made some room."

So, I invite you to join me for the next 27 days in posting at least 5 things you are grateful for each day. Let's make the end of 2008 one to be remembered as we cooperate with the Universe (God in my language) to make 2009 one filled with joy, love, peace, and plenty.

Love,

Dr. Angela Massey aka The Purpose Professor

Understanding the Purpose of Focus, Part 1

2008-05-31T12:40:00.000-04:00

Merriam-Webster defines focus as "a state or condition permitting clear perception or understanding." Living in a time when gas prices are the highest in the history of our country, and foreclosures are at an all-time high, how can we gain a clear perception of success, prosperity, and abundance? In other words, how do we maintain our focus?

Let's face it, it is human nature to get distracted! Oftentimes we get distracted when we look at the reality of our situation and we think about what we don't have or what we can't do. Then confusion, doubt, and fear set in. Well, the first step to understanding the purpose of focus is to become selective about what we think about and talk about. Granted, that takes concentration; but, I'm convinced if we don't consciously concentrate we will lose focus.

Think of it this way: if you take a magnifying glass and hold it to a piece of paper, allowing the rays of the sun to act as a laser beam, then over time the rays of the sun will set the paper on fire. When light is focused, it has the potential to cut through steel! Wow!

Here's a wonderful thought for you and me: Nothing is a potent as a focused life!

Next week, I'll tell you why focus is so important and what focus can do for you. So stay tuned.

Until next time,

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
www.lifeonpurposellc.com
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Are You Your Worst Stressor?

2008-05-24T14:20:00.000-04:00

A stressor is what causes stress. It's something that is a threat to you. It can be a physical condition like misplacing your keys. It can be a mental condition like a thought about how irritated a co-worker makes you. Many of us like to blame stress on someone else ... you know ... "if so-and-so would just leave me alone everything would be fine!" Here's a stress wake-up call: MOST OF THE TIME WE'RE OUR WORST STRESSOR!

Before you get yourself all worked up, let me explain.

Janna was angry because her boss said she lacked assertive communication skills and should consider going to an up-coming seminar off-site. Janna refused to go, but she worried every time she had a conversation with a co-worker that her boss was in the background keeping score. She thought about learning more about being assertive, but she didn't want to give her boss the satisfaction of being right. At her annual appraisal, she received a "less than satisfactory" score in the area of communication. After the meeting she found a quiet place and began to replay what her boss said. As the tears fell, Janna felt even worse because she knew it was her own fault.

Stress is not always the other person's fault. Sometimes, rather than take responsibility for own own lives, we choose to blame an outside source for our troubles. Janna's work-related stress was mainly caused by her stubbornness. She allowed the anger she felt toward her boss to keep her from doing what she needed to do -- learn how to become more assertive and consequently create more value for her role within her organization.

So how can you avoid being your worst stressor? Easy! Take responsibility for yourself. Take responsibility for your life and what happens in your life.

Until next time,

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
www.lifeonpurposellc.com
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

The Purpose of Learning to Relax

2008-04-10T15:12:00.000-04:00

Have you been challenged with learning how to relax? I have, so I decided to take a moment to ponder ... WHY is it that some people can just kick back with a coke and a smile, while others can't seem to relax even when they're sleeping?

For example, my mom had a stroke in October 2007. She's confined to a wheelchair. She can't talk like she used to; but she's all there mentally. She's as sharp as a tack! Before she had the stroke she was a neat-freak ... if she saw a little piece of lint on the floor, or if there was a speck of dust somewhere she was johnny-on-the-spot to pick it up or clean it up. Now mind you, this was a very irritating idosyncrasy for our entire family, because she never sat down -- she was always fixing something or cleaning something or moving something. We were constantly telling her to relax. Anyway, now that she's wheelchair bound and should be thinking about walking and talking, she's still trying to fix it, clean it, and move it. She literally throws a fit if I or other family members don't jump to pick up a speck of lint on the floor. Relaxing is something she refuses to do!

There is a purpose in relaxation. Relaxation releases stress. Relaxation enhances your body, mind, and spirit. So here's the deal, let's make a conscious decision to relax -- relieve yourself of nervous tension ... and while you're at it, make sure my mom reads this blog!

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com/
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Good Health ... On Purpose!

2008-02-22T15:29:00.000-05:00

Hello World!

It's a beautiful, snowy day in New England. I'm not a big snow fan, but this is great weather to have the fireplace lit, to snuggle up with your honeypie, and sip huge mugs of hot chocolate! I'm sitting here sipping a glass of Sutterhome Zinfandel, thinking about my health.

As I've grown older, I've noticed that weight seems to stubbornly stay in places I want it leave! I hate feeling like I look old, worn-out, tired, and disgusted. I have to admit, though, sometimes that's exactly how I feel. Anyway, I'm on this quest to take better care of myself without nipping and tucking! Bemoaning a fate doomed to paying homage to those 25 extra pounds, I talked with a friend of mine who suggested that I detox my body. De...what?

Rick explained that I feel worn-out, tired, and disgusted because I've taken better care of my care than I have my body. We change the oil in our cars, we get tune-ups; but when it comes to our bodies -- well --

So, I'm giving my body an oil change and a tune-up. I'm getting rid of the toxins I've willingly allowed to inhabit my body because of the foods I eat. For 9-days I will consciously ingest vitamins, minerals, and a special supplement designed to refuel my sluggish engine. My 9-days will start on Sunday, 2/24/08. Stay tuned to see if there's anything to this detoxification and cleansing as I plan to post my feelings and results daily.

I figured I'm trying to do everything else on purpose, why not focus on my health?

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
www.lifeonpurposellc.com
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Doing What I Want to Do

2007-12-27T22:19:00.001-05:00

2007 is winding down and coming to an end. Did you live this year with purpose, on purpose, and for purpose? Ashamedly, I must admit that I did not. I wasted too much time doing things I wanted to do while neglecting the things I needed to do.

What about you? What do you need to do in 2008 so that you can do what you want to do? I need to listen to my James Malinchak's CDs. James is one of my mentors, and because one of my goals is to make a high six-figure income as a professional speaker I have to take the time and make the time to do what he tells me to do. The challenge is that I don't always want to listen to CDs or read a book or write. Nope, most of the time I want to surf the web and play Party Poker. However, after watching the movie, The Great Debaters (a must see, by the way), I realize afresh that if I keep doing what I want to do, dismissing what I have to do until ... well, I will have lived and died never really having done what I really wanted to do.

You figure it out.

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
www.lifeonpurposellc.com
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

The Purpose of Your Gift

2007-12-25T01:11:00.000-05:00

I love this time of the year! Generally speaking, people are little nicer. For instance, they let you get in front of them in traffic, smile, and the CVS cashier who hardly spoke all year wishes you a "Happy Holiday!" I also love the gifts ... giving and receiving.

Now, as a devout Christian, I am focused more on the gift I have received in the person of Jesus Christ. Today, Christmas Day, is John 3:16 manifested: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son..." And really, that's the real purpose of a gift! We give to show our love, or at least we should. With love as the premise of gift-giving that ugly tie or sweater doesn't look as bad because the person who gave it did so to show their love.

I believe the purpose of your gift, like the gift God gave us, is to demonstrate your love. That's it! So the question becomes: are we giving out of "it's-that-time-of-the-year" obligation OR are we giving because we have so much love for the one we're giving to we just want them to know it?

Without shame, I say to you all MERRY CHRISTMAS!

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
www.lifeonpurposellc.com

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Purpose - Check Your Brakes!

2007-12-20T11:30:00.001-05:00

Trying to be successful without purpose is like driving a car without brakes. You may go along just fine using the gas pedal, but when the time comes for you to navigate a turn or stop you'll end up wrecked.

When I was 13 (many years ago!) my mom and I were headed home from the family's restaurant, which was about 10 miles start to finish. We had a 63' red Buick Riviera that my dad kept so shiny you could see your reflection in the paint job. This car was in pristine condition, inside and out ... the black vinyl seats were lovingly maintained with saddle soap, and the chrome polished with Mother's Chrome Polish. Riding in that car in Newark, New Jersey in the summer time was the coolest feeling any 13-year-old could ever have because everybody admired it and Dad got countless offers to buy it. The car was just that cool!

It was a scorching hot August day and we were driving down Bergen Street coming to the intersection of Avon Avenue. Aretha Franklin was belting out Respect from the car's 8-track while Mom and I engaged in our favorite sing along (she was Aretha and I was "re-re-re-re-re-re-re." ) I don't know how fast Mom was driving, but as we approached the intersection she started to pump the brakes only to discover we had none! "Ann, sit back!" she barked while trying to maneuver the red Buick. Being a kid, I sat up just in time to see that we were about to be broadsided by an on-coming car on the passenger's side. Instinctively I slid over to the driver's side behind my mom, screaming as I heard screeching wheels and the loud thud of metal hitting metal. Amazingly, mom and I escaped unharmed, but our beloved red Buick was totalled.
So, I'll say it again ... Trying to be successful without purpose is like driving a car without brakes. Take away the brakes, and your life, just like our red Buick, will eventually become an unguided missile -- headed for a wreck.

Until next post,

The Purpose Professor
"Teaching people how to succeed on purpose."
Life On Purpose LLC
http://www.lifeonpurposellc.com/

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Practicing What You Teach

2007-12-20T01:19:00.000-05:00

It's been a long time since I blogged and primarily it's because LIFE just keeps on happening! Since my last entry I've gained a new daughter-in-law, purchased a new home, made $10K in one month for the first time in my life, cleaned up my credit, had to deal with my mom who had a severe stroke and heart attack, and ... had MAJOR birthday!

Birthdays are significant for me because I always start my "New Year" the day after my birthday which happens to be 12/13. I gave up making resolutions a while ago, but I have made a few purposeful decisions. Yippeee!

The problem with decisions is that most of us just make them haphazardly based on a crisis instead of thinking about the decision from every angle. I teach people to make decisions on paper. Look at the pros and cons, engage the left brain so that you can analyze and go through a process. Well, I'm practicing what I teach. Going through this process helped me decide what I need to do to make $10K every month, not just once in a while.

So, what kinds of decisions are you facing? Why not get out a piece of paper or better yet use Mindmapper (great thinking software) and make smarter decisions on purpose!

Happy Holidays!

The Purpose Professor
Life On Purpose LLC
www.lifeonpurposellc.com

"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

The Purpose of a Goal

2007-03-24T19:27:00.000-04:00

E. R. Haas, writes that 74% of the population allow their dreams and goals to die because they are not focused. I like to think I'm in the 26% of those who are focused. What about you?

Anyway, Haas' article was a wake-up call for me. I do have goals. I do write them down. I do read them occassionally. But, the sad truth is my life does not reflect focus. I have unfinished projects, great ideas in my head, and brilliant advice for others. What about you?

Have you identified something you can focus on? Something you absolutely must make happen, period? Haas' went on to say that people confuse dreams, goals, and plans. This confusion leads to a mental disconnect, so the goal falls by the wayside.

The purpose of a goal is to help us narrow our focus. A goal gives us something to work towards, it gives us a reason to keep moving forward. Back when I was working on my degree, I created a doable plan to help me accomplish that goal. I remained focused on completing each small tasks (homework, papers, etc.) realizing that each small tasks would eventually add up to one big goal completed. I wanted my degree. It was a consuming passion, and I was determined that I would do whatever I had to -- I had to reach my goal.

Well, now that I'm awake, I'm revisiting my goals, my dreams, and my plans. I believe to be successful (you define it) we must have all three. The trick is to know the difference in the purpose of each, and to integrate all three into our lives.

Until next post, remember ...
"Life with no purpose is no life at all!"

Purpose and A Burning Desire

2007-03-23T20:44:00.000-04:00

It's been hard for me to get in gear these days! I have set a financial goal for my speaking business this year, and I know if I just sit around playing Hearts it will never happen. It's already March! I know that as a motivational speaker and trainer, it's my job to motivate, right? Truth is, I haven't felt motivated. So I thought about why?

I remembered a book I read by Jack Canfield called, "Success Principles" and Jack says you have to have a burning desire ... your why you'll do whatever you have to do to get what you want frame of mind. If you don't have a why, you won't do the what!

Sometimes, as in my case, your why is just not strong enough to sustain you. Translation ... it's really not that important! So I revisted my goal and decided to adjust it. 2007 won't be the year I become a multimillionaire. Heck, I'd rather spend some of my time visting my kids, and grands, anyway.

Speak Life!

2007-02-12T22:09:00.000-05:00

I just returned from a 2-day trainer/speaker workshop in Kansas City. My friend, "Mr. Lifestyle" aka Jamie Swindell did the honors. It was phenomenal!

How? You wonder? Well, unlike most "train-the-trainer" events, Jamie started the day off with us focusing on our internal dialogue and how it hinders our external dialogue. He mentioned that we trainers have huge egos ... Naaahhh! To learn from another trainer, we had to promise to take our egos off, throw them out, and not hurt anyone. Okay, so it was a little hokey. But guess what? That little hokey exercise helped me see that my internal self-talk has kept me from delivering 100%. You see, not only is "Mr. Lifestyle" a great trainer...he makes six figures and only works 5 -- yep, count 'em -- f-i-v-e days a month, teaching Excel no less.

Anyway, this training got me to thinking about what I'm saying to myself. What's keeping me from breaking out of the rut we trainers sometimes crawl in to? Yep, you got it! Negative self-talk! Mmm...reminds me of a Proverb I heard recently: "The power of life and death is in the tongue" How about we start speaking life?