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Mid-Summer Trek To Find The New…

The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you’re not going to stay where you are
J.P. Morgan

My youngest turned and asked if we could go on a road trip. Absolutely yessss! Until she said she wanted to go immediately. It was Christmas Day. Brunch with the family was divine. An experience we relived year after year. Thought the little one would be satisfied. But she wanted more. Time with her mom right after the family gathering. Mid afternoon. Christmas Day.

So I sat next to her. Shared how much I loved her. Then explained what a Road trip meant. Planning. Knowing where we’re going. The path we would need to take. She was disappointed. But I used it as a teaching moment. I told her to search ski resorts (yep, she wanted to go skiing) and come up with the top 3 places she would like to visit. That turned into a yearlong project.

In Search Of Snow

There were many places to choose from but we wanted early snow just before peak season. She had never skied before so that meant even more research. We chose Breckinridge Ski Resort in Colorado. Early December. Just as the season was about to begin. We found A beautiful cabin near the peak. We invited her older sister and her two boys.

Being from Florida we had to get the right gear. Rented the ski attire but bought everything else. It was an experience that lasted a life time and kick started our many holiday rendezvous.

Strategies To Find The New

But can the same strategy be applied to other things? Indeed it can.

Investigate. Research. Study. Whatever your goal its important to find information. New knowledge opens minds. Personally I find new things amazing! Are you curious about a different career path? Job search (yes there’s a difference), a research project, a new house, new car? Whatever your prowess, the new is exciting even when it’s dreaded. Here are tips for the novice.

7 Tips for the Novice Researcher

If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there. And who knows where you’ll end up.
Unknown

Know what your needs are. What do you want? Think about it
Start with a general Search to see what’s out there. What exists
Do a quick scan of key resources found on your topic or area of interest
Compile the most useful pieces found
Do a deep dive. Read through and highlight things that are important to what you’re searching for (YouTube videos, articles, discussions) whatever works
Organize the flow. What’s important. What’s nice to know. Discard the rest
Then Act. Gathering data is nice but putting it into action is what’s important to any project or task

Hope these tips will help to kickstart your next project. Any missing that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Going Solo. Here’s The Thing About Contactlessness

Contactless – Not involving contact. Not requiring touching or interaction between people

Hungry? Order a meal. It’s not a problem, Uber delivers. Need a last minute birthday gift? An outfit to go on the town with your boo? These sure ain’t no problem these days. Amazon delivers, and if you have prime.., that’s even better. You get it in a day!

Smartphone, e-maps, e-mail on the go. Hit the pause button during a movie are things that our little ones can’t fathom living without.

Don’t call me. Text. WhatsApp. Not to mention the gazillion channels on our big screen TVs, yet we still can’t find the right one to watch. Netflix anyone?

Religious? Going to church? Overrated. That’s a thing of the past. Thanks to the pandemic, We meet online. Those old folk shut-ins ain’t got nothing on us.

These days it seems if you drink you can still drive. All you need to do is program your smart car to take you home – driverless… or so you think. I fathom you’re on your own if the cops catch you. And we could go on and on.

Our High Tech World

What has our society come to? Even the Bible has been translated into so many versions that I can hardly recognize John 3:16 anymore. Some versions have totally missed the meaning. But then again who reads the Bible anymore? After all, we are able to listen to all those famous preachers on demand. Who needs to read when we can listen to what they want to share with us. Let them preachers read it and tell us.

Sigh…

We have it all wrong. Our lives need the stillness and quietness that only comes from reading the word and listen to the still small voice. Only then we will be able to hear what’s said to those hurting and in pain. Only then will we be able to perceive what and how the good lord wants us to lead others to him for the peace that only he provides. Only then will we be able to comfort those who mourn. Only then will we be able to rejoice with those who shout with joy unspeakable when their blessings come through.

Going Solo

Our contactless society invites opportunities for :

Solo Sadness
Solo Mourning
Solo Fears

Going solo means no one has to know. But as often said, what’s done in quiet comes to light when those who are sad find themselves overwhelmed. The effects are the sad fruit of suicidal thoughts which become evident. And… before we jump to say that couldn’t happen to me… reflect on the signs of the rich and famous. Those who suffer in silence unable to face it anymore. Travel enthusiast Anthony Bourdain; Comedian Robin Williams; Miss USA Cheslie Kryst are just a few. We join with their loved ones as they still mourn.

Tis sad indeed. Our contactless society feeds aloneness, even in a crowd.

Let’s together do what we can in our small corner to connect with those behind closed doors. And if they won’t answer… that’s when you counter with direct help. Mental illness is a big thing that we can no longer sweep under the carpet and play hush-hush. Contact those trained to help.

Things To Do

Things we can do are:

Shut up and listen.
Pay attention. There is always a sign(s)
Check in on friends who go quiet or missing
Invade their privacy … but do it wisely, quietly and with caution
Be real. A genuine spirit can be felt just like the hypocritical ones
Don’t be afraid to ask “Are you okay?” It sounds simple but it’s the thing to do
Pray. It works. Ask for wisdom, guidance and that spirit of discernment

Here’s hoping this reflection motivates and inspires you to reach out to a friend or loved one today.

How are you coping in our contactless world? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

When Everything Stops…

Life ends when you stop dreaming, hope ends when you stop believing and love ends when you stop caring
Unknown

When everything stops, or should I say…when everything should stop. More than a decade ago I lost my grandmother-the matriarch of our family. Cancer had returned in her three score and ten years. It didn’t stop her from being who she was…the be-all-and-end-all of our lives. But then one day the bank manager where I worked called me into her office, sat me down and told me the hospital had called. My grandmother was gone.

Perturbed, I looked around. Customers were still in the bank walking around doing their daily business. I could not understand. For me everything had stopped.

I reflect on what’s happening around the world. Threats and bombs going off explosively. Yet elsewhere, people go about their business as usual, posting on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms. It begs the question…is there a bridge? Do we care? Yep, many really do care. Benevolence saturates the heart and for sure, with gas prices skyrocketing, the world will start feeling the effects.

So let’s not give up hope because fear stops life and love ends when we stop caring.

Thoughts? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Pre-Planning Your Mistakes? 13 Ways To Get Out Of Your Head…

Success Strategies

13 Ways To Get Out Of Your Head

You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take. ~Wayne Gretzky
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I heard a TV host who was showing a young lady how to use a piece of equipment which she was actively trying to learn. She went into a what if scenario to which he retorted with the question… “are you pre-planning your mistakes?” She laughed.

It reminded me of how we often act. We think of everything that could go wrong instead of thinking of the things that could go right. What if I go after the entrepreneurship venture and fail? What if I apply to the job and they turn me down? What if I invest in the relationship and it doesn’t work out? What if scenarios play over and over in our head. It gets us nowhere. Get out of your head and take…

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A Late January Evening By The Seashore…

By the sea I couldn’t wait to be. To sit causally on the sand. Me, towel, book and birds all in one as the mighty waves thundered and splashed against the seashore. The weather forecasted it would be the coldest day of the season. Disappointment soared at the spoilt prospect yet still I was determined to chill (literally).

I sat still gazing in the distance. Cold yet relaxed. It was as if there was not a care in the world. I watched the little bird hunt its food fighting against the rushing waves as it eroded the shore. “Give up,” I shouted. But it didn’t as it tried again and again to grab another peck, and another peck. It’s little body was no match for the cold windy weather, but it was yet to give up.

That Smile

That smile… my smile, as usual with it’s pleasantries drew in passersby. Many waved hello and flashed smiles in turn. Then along came an aged one. She spilt her life story in 20 long minutes. Deflecting, I was pleased to have been there to allow her tales of melancholy. A journey of sickness, travel and friendships throughout the years. Amidst her quiet tears and outstretched arms, a flash hug ensued (but alas what of Covid?!) she eventually walked on.

As the sun set, what more could I ask for? A late January evening of peace and quiet. Distant laughter reigned from sultry beach lovers against the sounds as the mighty sunset waves splashed!

Do it again I mused. Tis pure bliss of memories made in tow.

What Happens When Your Goal And Dream Become Theirs?

The pressures of winning was discussed in a post I wrote in 2021. Most of you may know about my involvement with Ignite Caribbean, Washington DC, where I have served as Chief Judge for several years. Through the 30 Under 30 initiative, we honor the outstanding achievements of young adults making waves in our society. But to make waves, it comes with hard work, dedication and sacrifice. And the biggest question is… what if the individual isn’t doing it for themselves… but for society?

Indeed cause for reflection as written in this very telling article … A Pageant Queen Reflects on Turning 30 penned by former Miss USA, Cheslie Kryst (now deceased). In it she shared the pressures associated with achieving and surpassing goals.

You may also like When All Seems Hopeless

The eerie contents of What Happens When Your Goal And Dream Become Theirs can be gleaned as you dive in below.

Success Strategies

In your own quiet corner you lay at night. You dream about being in the nationals. You work your butt off and that dream finally becomes real. Then you start thinking is the Olympics possible? 4 Years of hard work and sacrifice and it comes through! Millions grin with joy and you cannot help but beam. Then another 4 years to go higher. Is it possible? Can you do it again? You get to work again but pretty soon you realize the dream is no longer yours. You want to back off but start thinking … what will they say? How will they react? But really you no longer want that dream (for you).

Is it worth it to deny yourself and go after their goal? One can only think of the Olympics and the predicament of the athletes who compete. Usain bolt was one. Armed with the birth name…

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A Time Of Gratitude…

The 5 Things I am Thankful for depicted in picture form. First, Answered prayers. Second, my inner passion to help others achieve their goals through coaching. Third, willingness to try new things like I did with a sky dive … see it here

Along Came The Sky Dive

Fourth, My interest in personal growth which I did when I published my first book on leadership and Success and haven’t stop writing. Fifth and final, my two girls and family who makes life meaningful.

Cheers to your own tales of gratitude.

5 Once In A Lifetime Family Vacays To Plan In 2022…

Basking in the sun, sand and beach on an island in the sea. Hmm oh what fun it is to be. So sure I’m not alone in dreaming of those great vacation escapes! But while I am dreaming others are planning and experiencing the magic that it brings. From rejuvenation, peace of mind, laughter and squeals with kids, my oldest plans and puts it into action, then sends a link so the dream becomes real. She did it with my most memorable getaway for a weekend in Paris. A place I had dreamed of for years. A workaholic, she knew her mom would continue to procrastinate to find the right time for herself. So off she went and booked it for a birthday getaway. Yep, that dream became real.

So it was with anticipation that I gasped at Travel & Leisure’s article 7 Family Vacations that everyone should do at least once. I quickly indulged and was happy to note what my family and I (led by my oldest), have done. From the list, here are a few.

Cruise Away

The last time our family did this, it was January 2020 just before the pandemic. We set sail on a short weekend trip to the Bahamas for a kiddo’s birthday to swim with the dolphins. It was divine. The more lengthy trip to Greece took a combination of cruise and flights to the Turkish, Istanbul land. A must do at least once in a lifetime.

All Inclusive Resort Getaway

Being of the island of wood and water… yep Jamaica, this is a staple. But as I reflect, the Jewel runs-away with the mouth-dripping cocktail welcome. You are sure to never want to leave the staples of all you can eat island food with munches of worldwide delectable while basking in the sun, sand and sea in between. Not to mention the rooms, jacuzzi, and spa to massage away those tired work stressed muscles

The Slopes Is A Must Do

Breckenridge in Colorado never disappoints. My youngest asked after one Christmas family gathering to go on a road trip. She was too young to know that it takes planning. So I charged her to research where she wanted to go. She did and months later decided on a Colorado gem. This small town rates high during the holidays with its hidden Christmas town after gondola rides atop the mountains to slide down the slopes from skiing, snowboarding, or just angel-playing in the snow. A certain kids dream come through.

Road-Trip

Road-tripping causes you to trip when kids spill juices, food and candy wraps all over. Organized with trash bags does help but tell it to the little ones (ha ha). Our last road-trip took us to the Tennessee experience. We went through great landmarks with stops along the highways to rest, refuel and driver exchange. The tiredness you feel is nothing when compared to the lifetime memories.

Some Place New

So as the pandemic wears on, we dream of someplace new where we can just chill. For me as a writer, it will be a solo retreat to encounter that writing escape.

What About You?

What’s your dream for a place that you must visit at least once in a lifetime? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Your Reader’s Gift …

Do you know why some people succeed while others don’t? It’s simple. They never give up.

People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily. – Zig Ziglar

Motivation And Success. The Link

Motivation is important to success. Give a push start or a power boost to a struggling entrepreneur today. 101+ Empowering Quotes For New Entrepreneurs will ignite their new year with the desire to keep going when they feel like giving up.

Successful people press on when the going gets tough and they become discouraged. J. K. Rowling

The Meaningful Job Decision

Did I make the right choice when I was headhunted? Selena revealed that her 9-to-5 job was an exciting rollercoaster journey. Four years earlier, she was headhunted by a giant company to manage its flagship location. They had called her many times, but she avoided interview invites because of her job’s loyalty. She was not sure how to tell them that she had landed a new opportunity. As time progressed, she went away to a distant country then returned to her home country, hoping that the headhunter would have forgotten, but they had not. On arrival back home, she was invited to an interview. This time she went. Not surprisingly, she was offered the job at twice the salary.

Help someone you know move on from a difficult, stressful job. It might just be that they have been doing the job for 5, 10, 15 years and just want a change. With the book Ditch it, Switch it, you’re sure to give them the ignition to make the decision as they step into the new year.

Quiet Peace In The Midst of Life’s Storm

At three in the morning I received the most devastating news. My daughter’s Godmother had lost her 15-year-old granddaughter. She had died of a massive Asthma attack. I screamed—quietly. I asked the Lord why, why, why? I did not understand. As I sought answers, her aunt encouraged that she did not understand either, but she was safe in the Lord’s loving arms.

Months later as the still grieving mom received a copy of the book My Safe Place, she sat feeling comforted. It brought a sense of peace that quieted her heart. Consider those who mourn this holiday season. Give the gift of prayer and daily inspiration to those who are hurting from sickness, mental incarceration, and loss. GreenLight and My Safe place provides that comfort. Gift it now.

Poetry

A poet’s work … to name the unnamable, to point at frauds, to take sides, start arguments, shape the world, and stop it from going to sleep
Salman Rushdie

Poems revive the soul and encourage the heart. Charmaine speaks these in her book I write. You Recite.

Purpose And Meaning

Nothing brings me more joy than a life dedicated to the personal growth and development of others. Life is about helping others along life’s way. Choose your book today and make a difference in the lives of your friends, family or foe.

Over To You

Which book has made an impact on your life? Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers

The 4 Benefits Of A Holiday Beach Escape As The Cold Descends…

Success Strategies

Ever wondered how even the thought of the beach makes you feel relaxed? I reflect on a holiday when my family and I spent some time in the islands with a getaway at the beach enjoying the beautiful sunrise and sunset while avoiding the thought of the icy snow. It was a relaxing feeling that I wished could be brought to many during the Christmas snowy season.

I pondered more and decided to reflect on the reasons the beach is an answered prayer. Here I share 4 benefits as gleaned from Christina Heiser.

The Blue Color

The color blue is associated with feelings of calm and peace while staring at the ocean puts us into a mild meditative state that enhances creativity. The perfect place for me as I write. The book My Safe Place serves as evidence

2. The Sound’s Ebb and Flow

The quiet sounds that the waves…

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Light At The Museum…

Book Signing event. What I learnt. What sparked the light. Music, food, culture and fun.

Island Space Museum welcomed Reggae Music Matriarch Miss Pat Chin when she shared the evolution of Reggae Music from Jamaica, the Caribbean to the United States and the world.

Pleased to have been invited to share my own book and Research on Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders in the United States.

This Museum is a must visit when in Florida. Plan your visit to Learn more about this innovative initiative and don’t hesitate to donate unique and historical Caribbean artifacts. The Museum’s hardworking team are happy to shed the light!

Health. The Vaccine Way…

We don’t see sick people
~Doctor’s Receptionist

The pandemic has turned the world upside down. “We don’t see sick people.” That’s what the receptionist at the doctor’s office said. Haley’s symptoms included running nose and nasal congestion but it was annoying and missing work was even more so. After all, she had bills to pay.

So the office proceeded to setup a virtual appointment for her to see the doctor. Without the necessary tools to do her vital signs at home, ‘seeing’ the doctor only meant them collecting her co-pay and telling her to go to the urgent care. More cost and even more time away from work. Several hours and doctors charges later, she tested negative for the recommended Covid test but was down several hundred dollars and lost worktime. Worse yet, she was told to visit the pharmacy to pick up something for the common cold she knew she had from the beginning. Believe it or not, this situation is repeated multiple times everyday.

Covid. Covid-19. The Pandemic

Sad times indeed. the pandemic has wreaked havoc around the world. There’s no escape. Many wander in despair. Some become house-rats. Businesses slowed. Some even closed. Entertainment suffered. Travel, hotel stays took a nose dive. With no entertainment, economic devise, anger soared. Panicked consumers wander in fear. Deaths are many and goodbyes are few. Too many have lost hope. Let’s just gallivant. Live our best life before we die. So they play. It’s not going to make a difference, they say.

Enter the vaccine. Hope indeed! Personally I jumped at the opportunity to get the two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Adorned in short sleeves, I rolled up twice and got the shots. I’d take more if needed. Having worked in pharmaceuticals for a decade and more, I know what goes into research and development to help people do more, feel better and live longer. Critics will always exist but it’s well needed to prolong life, or to ease pain and discomfort.

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The Anti Vaccine Movement

The anti-vaccine are either afraid or make things political warding off and spreading fear. Oh the side effects of the vaccine will make you impotent, they say. Or you don’t know what’s going to happen later in life and the list goes on. But if something provides you with the ability to live a better life, wouldn’t you go after it? Who in their right mind would want to experience discomfort when there’s an alternative? I find it strange as most of us growing up had to be vaccinated against diseases such as MMR, Chicken-Pox and more. Chances are we are not able to enjoy epic travel trips unless we have proof of being vaccinated.

So I encourage those skeptics, to do the right thing. Get vaccinated. The life you save may even be yours. A colleague at the hairdresser was mourning. Her best friend of many years had just passed away due to Covid. She took all the necessary precautions. Stayed home, sanitized, cleaned, and sanitized again and again. Then her beloved young adult son went out, contracted the Covid virus. Unknown to him because he was asymptomatic. He passed it to her. Sadly, within a few days, she died. Another young mom decided to stay home after testing positive because the hospital wouldn’t allow family visits. That night she died. And there are many more sad stories.

There Is A Vaccine

Again there’s no cure. But there’s a vaccine. Yet many refuse to take it. Politics? Ignorance? Rumor-mongering? Fear? Who knows? But it makes sense to take it.

I close with the wise well known quote “Prevention. Is better than cure“. Choose wisdom. Save you. Deal with the consequences (if any) later. There might not be any.