tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36626299860851050072024-03-13T00:14:57.090-04:00Resiliency for LifeHow to develop and deepen our ability to thrive when life serves up BIGStuff issues. Resiliency helps us with our relationships, health, happiness, school grades, graduation and peace of mind. Plus job success, aging with more ease and so much more.ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-43101852286353358142021-01-28T13:09:00.004-05:002021-01-29T13:47:29.351-05:00I'm afraid I have some very bad news for you<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Receiving bad news is never easy. However, what to do when we get bad news can take almost super human effort as we process exactly what it is we are facing. What have we lost? What price will we pay? What unfinished business is there left unresolved. Who can help?</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Our new normal can knock us of centre. So, I'm sharing this not for sympathy or empathy but in the hopes that when the day comes and you are suddenly thrust into a "New Normal" you'll have some ideas on what to do and how to face it.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I was 27 the first time I was given catastrophic bad news. I had cancer. Then several days after surgery the news got worse. Michael you're cancer has spread it was in four locations. Well with over 25 years come and gone since that day it's much easier to talk about now. However it was a life altering moment. </span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I'd gone to the doctor for an appointment. At the time it seemed like the "flu" I had was hanging on and was attempting to make me a permanent host! I'd felt flu like for six plus weeks. I'd started sleeping 18 to 20 ours a day! Me. Mr Energy.... Not this time. So when I'd gone to the Doctors office for </span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I prepared them by calling a family meeting.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I was living in Halifax and at the tine only had my spouse living with me</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">My brothers where both still living at home with parents at the time</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">asked if they could be at the phone that night</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Told them i was setting up to fight a fight and wanted them to be on my team</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I boldly assigned tasks</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">humour team - movie nights books of jokes cartoons etc from used book store etc</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">inspirational music</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">prayer team</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">second opinion medical team</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">called people asked to be kept in loop</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">of one positive thing happened every week and don't expect to get anything back</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">but a weekly update</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">gave them my condition</span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;">I've been inside these types of appointment offices so many times.</span></span></td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">asked them to not come down for a visit</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">till we had everything verified</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">and knew exactly what options where and what I/we had to face</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I you wish to skype and chat we can do that</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">also the relaxation skills are more important than ever to practise</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">helps optimize body for health and healing</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Skype I'm ResilientMichael</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">also on your team someone to build a list of support groups in your area that could offer some type of support</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">skill building, emotional, etc</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">So one thing to consider How will you how do you describe / define yourself starting now</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I was a "Lean Keen Healing Machine!" ... </span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Yes between my pray teams. theme musics, some for up, some for calm, some for emotions and some for self hypnosis, prose & poetry, and prayers and my exercises to manage my energy the over experience was much better than most there</span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left; white-space: normal;">So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">Resiliency for Life</a>.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Michael</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span>Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">To interview Michael, book him for your </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">next event or to contact him you can do that through your favourite agent or speakers bureau or direct at:</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</span></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</span></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Faith Hope and Courage progrramming is at:</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">http://www.michaelhballard.com/grace-noll-crowell-poetry/<br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><b><i><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</span></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">https://about.me/resilientmichael</span></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</span></a></span></span></span></div>
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</span></span>ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-25948266570581673802017-11-16T15:06:00.002-05:002021-01-29T13:03:44.450-05:00Stuff: Do you own it or... does it own you?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">We all need some, we almost all want some more, yet who owns who? </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">In this the second decade of the 21st century we are marketed at constantly. </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">Buy more, spend more, get more. How? With the <b>best</b> stuff. Clothes, cars, jewelry, housing, shoes, accessories, places and stuff. All can be so much fun to own, experience and use. But how does it all add to your life? </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">Yet out of all this what truly helps build us up? Develop, deepen and widen our ability to thrive? </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">Yes a good raincoat for a rainy day is very useful, a proper pair of winter books are very useful on those days when the temperature dips to -24C (Very cold in F) with wind chill.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">So why talk about stuff? Well resilience research tells us that how we chose to define ourselves from the inside out plays a role in how happy and successful we are in our lives. Plus how much we enjoy the journey. So, I ask again: Do you your stuff or does it own you?</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">We are defined in part by what and who we surround ourselves with. Yet if it all was taken away from you tomorrow what would change? Would you still be you, or does your stuff define you so much that you'd feel empty? Would you be able to move forward? Again, nothing wrong with having stuff. Just be careful your stuff does not own you.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">Until next time <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/iy" target="_blank">Imagine Yourself</a> with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">Resiliency for Life</a>.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">To book me to speak at your next event:</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">Connect with me through your favourite bureau or agency.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;"><a href="mailto:MichaelHBallard@gmail.com" target="_blank">Connect directly</a>: Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">Check out our Faith Hope and Courage Project at:</span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: large;">http://www.michaelhballard.com/grace-noll-crowell-poetry/ <br /></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-27750916449392551512017-09-20T07:27:00.000-04:002017-09-29T13:50:32.239-04:00Instant Gratification or a Life that Matters<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We live in a world of excess and lack, in so many categories. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some of us have too much to eat or not enough to eat. Some of us have no clean water, others more than they need. How can those of us with enough share with those who have not enough?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">During this times it is vital for each of us to pay attention to what matters to us in the short term and the long term. What values, what skills what behaviour will help keep us safer, more engaged and more fulfilled?</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sinuOMAklubi/" target="_blank">Sonja</a> shows us mastery with a classic pose. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mastery is a topic that is often ignored in a world filled with instant gratification. It is all about the process, the language, the skills and the people we need to know and avail ourselves to to become better at, and in time become more successful at the many areas of life we have the opportunities to grow into.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How and with who will you gain added mastery in life? What area(s) do you want to work on? A life that includes a focus on mastery is a life that is enriched and deepened. Given our very superficial life style in most of this current civilization we can all benefit from working towards growing and gaining added mastery. It will deepen your resilience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Also mastery in life can help us feel safer. We gain a sense of control over parts of our lives that help us as uncertainty in other areas grows. Plus sharing can assist us develop and deepen out sense of passion and purpose, two keys to living a life with mastery. This can make it easier to share.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sinuOMAklubi/" target="_blank">Sonja</a> shows us a a very difficult pose.<br />Making the difficult look easy is often a sign<br /> of Mastery and a love of what one is doing.<br />You can connect with Sonja for business at:<br />@omaklubi on Facebook</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How and with who will you gain added mastery in life? What area(s) do you want to work on? How will mastery help free you up so you can prosper and share?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of my favourite ways of sharing is through <a href="https://www.kiva.org/" target="_blank">Kiva</a>. They offer several ways to share with others. They provide loans through our sharing and over time the small business owners pay back. They have an impressive 97.1% repayment rate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mastery as a way of life offers many rewards. How, in what and with who will you develop yours? Investing in mastery pays dividends for a life time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, until next time <a href="https://www.facebook.com/InnerResilience/" target="_blank">Imagine Yourself</a>,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">Resiliency for Life</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>To book Michael</b> for your next meeting or association event h</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">ave your favourite agent or speakers bureau contact him at: </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">MichaelHBallard@GMail.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael Travels from Toronto Canada</span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.2856095 -80.028631299999986 44.020842499999993 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-62192174678397761682017-08-30T08:30:00.000-04:002017-09-05T13:28:34.264-04:00The Two Engineers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Connecting, Engaging and Communicating</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was about six years old. Dad came in through the door after a day of work with a spring in his step, and a little more upbeat than usual. He gave me and my brother the always wonderful hug and kiss and then Mom got hers. Then he could not wait to share that he'd had a most unusual day at work.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">― </span><a class="authorOrTitle" href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7275.Helen_Keller" style="color: #333333; font-family: Lato, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Helen Keller</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpL7hrjNJhFJrEHKlgOq6KJiLhKf_Ux4mMpk2ALyfu8H9Rj4s7x50Oi8wiJLyi3FldPXfYv0W-4XBCLR6gUj4kvTGy9JPUO3kRP-Ye3HVSHXuz02Qk17CUOmdbgqU9hWpI_yckcTkzvU/s1600/BallardHarryWorkBench1986Cropped.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I remember it like yesterday. He look Mom in the eye and the conversation went something like this:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Well today one of the company's lawyers, RCMP and my Boss and his Boss paid me a visit. I been asked to work on a project."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mom: "Oh really what' it about?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dad: Well that is were it gets very interesting. I've had to sear and oath on the bible for a 40 year oath of national secrecy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mom: "Wow... very exciting and interesting."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dad: "Yes, it seems I'll be helping build things like nothing I've ever worked on before"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the weeks and time ahead Dad would come home and share the people insights into what he was experiencing working on these <b>TOP SECRET</b> projects.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can remember this as one of his most insightful conversations with my Mom and I like it was yesterday. He shard his work experiences on communications, engagement, team building and successful outcomes. We learned that day that my Dad was a part of two projects. Each one equal in importance, yet getting these vital projects launched and completed where happening radically differently.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Project One</b> was being lead by a technical professional who included the whole group in the decision making process. Dad told us he had a large roll of brown paper, He'd roll it out, stick on the wall, the floor or a work bench 9where ever there was room) and with his magic marker sketch out key points, drawing of various parts with time lines. Then he'd hand out tentative diagrams of each component. Then he'd turn to the group and ask for feedback on each point he's put up. How to make it better, faster, safer, more effective etc. Some might say he was interested in 360º feedback.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Project Two</b> was being lead by a technical professional who would come to the group, assign tasks, drop off the appropriate paperwork and leave. NO time. Busy, busy busy is what he projected (Perhaps feeling overwhelmed?). He could be found in his office if you had questions. He as considered argumentative </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well after a many many weeks of this behaviour from both leaders, at the beginning of a new week and a new shift <b>Project One</b> Leader showed up to congratulate the team that they where ahead of schedule and below budget! Great news. Seems those in charge where very impressed. The team leader thanked them all for their contributions for help push this vital project forward to ensure it was a success!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A while later <b>Project Two</b> Leader arrived called a meeting and then started to "tear a strip off them" What type of people where they? The project was way off track in all categories. Behind, well over budget, raw material, partial and broken proto type waste was over the top. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My Dad was amazed at this professionals lack of insights or basic understanding of humans and how to connect, engage and inspire others.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Plus both teams had same individuals on them, except for the Leaders. Hmmmm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, I ask myself daily who am I and how do others see me?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do others see you?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Until next time, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/imagine-yourself-life-time-michael-ballard?trk=mp-reader-card" target="_blank">Imagine Yourself</a> deepening your <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company-beta/298666/" target="_blank">Resiliency for life</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To hire Michael to present at your next event contact <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/ContactUs" target="_blank">him</a> through your favourite speakers bureau or agency.</span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-75831928959226535032017-08-22T13:04:00.002-04:002017-08-22T13:04:45.114-04:00Perspective<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Point of View</b> </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have you ever found that despite your best efforts things are not turning out as planned?</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTVf_Gr-5xcUlrhMT5N97ZAfnRYbdBkSbvpqcYHPwMnoI8aQIytE6l7O5BSgyRJHq7FG0wYu_uKmu6DQB-qhB_skxCVpzWnHv1dtuGHgdcXCDsCLWX-cuVAyHfjl-DkORzs1aMJSB6DA/s1600/BallardVBoxingCor.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="279" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTVf_Gr-5xcUlrhMT5N97ZAfnRYbdBkSbvpqcYHPwMnoI8aQIytE6l7O5BSgyRJHq7FG0wYu_uKmu6DQB-qhB_skxCVpzWnHv1dtuGHgdcXCDsCLWX-cuVAyHfjl-DkORzs1aMJSB6DA/s320/BallardVBoxingCor.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Could it be you? Perspective and our ability to consider OPPV's? Other People's </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Points of View can help us gain added insights into who thinks what and why.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have a friend who works with the public. He tells me that one of his <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>biggest frustrations are male adults who talk to him as a child to him as the adult. As if he is the parent and the customer is the child. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He says he finds it exhausting to deal with this style or type of behaviour. I'd agree.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0Gw7qv_ceRMrWe65yA5SYsHi2ulZRLrJcsUlVSuo0zkZ4mn1edqK0Ydg4gney-XT4VWqM11wtSjQ5bYUqIz5Pom-nC9ho8gwsVFf0vF9PTBMGsF8cBwBoRwOvcCD5L0J3GbkuP3dzBg/s1600/BallardMRedTieSideGlance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0Gw7qv_ceRMrWe65yA5SYsHi2ulZRLrJcsUlVSuo0zkZ4mn1edqK0Ydg4gney-XT4VWqM11wtSjQ5bYUqIz5Pom-nC9ho8gwsVFf0vF9PTBMGsF8cBwBoRwOvcCD5L0J3GbkuP3dzBg/s320/BallardMRedTieSideGlance.jpg" width="319" /></a><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So how do others perceive you? What things about your style help you engage & connect with others? </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Is there anything about your style that makes others want to detach and pull away?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, Resiliency is in part about engaging and connecting with each other. So what do you do that builds perspective in your life and is there any part of your style that blocks you?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So until next time <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/9434652/" target="_blank">imagine yourself</a> with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">resiliency for more life</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">To contact Michael:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #454545;">To book Michael for your upcoming event</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #454545;">contact him through your favourite agent or speakers bureau. </span></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-57248087265013784752017-06-22T17:47:00.003-04:002017-06-22T17:47:33.266-04:00Failing Forward!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Life is short. So, to have the best experiences we all need to take risks. There are so many ways to take those risks. One of them is in the hobbies we chose. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4YdGJlvHKNDy0Harf0bJEzmm5Qb_vb7bT0Y-_LE5ofxniA8trAcW4UkYHKd5YbQ4OAq2XvGes_X90TEvY5fmMYJ6f89oIpR4E6npZHBpnY0pgeBq_TwAVAuIQCGsMNCsbVcbfGWAdDk/s1600/Stirlings+Parsnip+Wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Taking a risk One batch at a time " border="0" data-original-height="969" data-original-width="838" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4YdGJlvHKNDy0Harf0bJEzmm5Qb_vb7bT0Y-_LE5ofxniA8trAcW4UkYHKd5YbQ4OAq2XvGes_X90TEvY5fmMYJ6f89oIpR4E6npZHBpnY0pgeBq_TwAVAuIQCGsMNCsbVcbfGWAdDk/s400/Stirlings+Parsnip+Wine.jpg" title="Experiencing failure through risk taking" width="347" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the best examples of being a risk taker in hobbies was my Dad. He tried his hand at wood working with modest to wonderful results. He tried his hand at gardening with amazing results several ways for over 50 years in his flower gardens with his amazing mix of annuals and perennial flowers and shrubs. Plus his vegetable garden and especially his tomatoes garden was year in and year out amazing and the results come August and September always very tasty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">However in one of his hobbies he took a wide variety of risks. The outcomes where in turn varied. Which hobby was that? It was his wine making hobby. I can tell you some of his wines where very nice. World class No. But that was never his aim. It was done for fun, enjoyment and sharing time with those that helped him. Some of his wine offerings to attempt to be polite where less than average. Yikes! His Parsnip Wine was awful. Yet lots of laughter and joy occurred as he recounted how my garden had yielded a bumper crop of parsnips. Some longer than 14" long and and <b>very </b> <u>large in diameter </u>. A few bushel baskets worth. I could only freeze so much for them for later, BBQ them for now and give away so many. So, Dad decided to turn them into wine. "After all son, they are related to the sugar beet. This will be interesting." Interesting indeed it was. It was not his best tasting batch is for certain. It was as always his best effort. However Parsnip Wine was not something I'd wish to taste again. Yet I so appreciate the joy and the curiosity he shared as he did batch after batch from the many variety's of grapes, to dandelion, to wild bush cranberry (too sour for me) ranging from modest to amazing outcomes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So what do you do that stretches you out? What do you do to create some big, some small positive outcomes with some not so great outcomes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So until next time Imagine Yourself with more Resiliency for Life.</span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-8999185738249853172017-05-02T13:11:00.001-04:002017-05-02T13:11:23.446-04:00Who me? Worry?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I bumped into Elmo after a <br />meeting at a children's hospital<br />Nothing like time with Elmo to add<br />some Joy to life.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There has been many words written about the act and process of worrying. I'm not here to convince you to stop. I am here to ask you how much time you've invested in worry and what change in outcomes has it created?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now I'm not talking about the typical thought "Hmmm did I lock the door this morning - when I left for work?" Nope not at all. That is a very normal thought for many of us a couple times a month. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No, I'm talking about what I call "Deep Worry". A habit of spending time often lost in worry about:</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We all face so many choices! </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What if</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- If only</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I, We, We're, They're not: Ready, Able, Up for this....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Learning to replace negative worry with action orientated self talk can be and is life affirming and changing. </span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, until next time, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Imagine Yourself with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="color: #e4af09;">Resiliency forLife</span></a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To interview Michael, book him for your </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</a></span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-61969750280757388992017-04-20T11:55:00.006-04:002017-04-20T11:58:13.634-04:00Excellence or Perfection?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;"> So what is your preference?</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1_GR7CstGWOJAQRoyTRc-PTOsJw-dQ719LDILR2Aoh_Q8Kc4oe6Ql-T3-o19nsXCOYuOUWT45mwcNFouO4yovl5m4P7aaWS4BvW9_oBDY-R4YQXaYy06A4BUpoz4YXVIhTP0c5lkRyM/s1600/C9aLQF3WsAAm8pT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="Mastery as a way of service" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1_GR7CstGWOJAQRoyTRc-PTOsJw-dQ719LDILR2Aoh_Q8Kc4oe6Ql-T3-o19nsXCOYuOUWT45mwcNFouO4yovl5m4P7aaWS4BvW9_oBDY-R4YQXaYy06A4BUpoz4YXVIhTP0c5lkRyM/s320/C9aLQF3WsAAm8pT.jpg" title="Excellence is practised here" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Positano Restaurant on Mt. Pleasant Ave.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">in Toronto knows all about excellence.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They live and breath it in every thing they do.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I've had some very interesting conversations over the years about this. <b>Excellence</b> to many of us is a continuous quest to raise standards, through process, experiences and outcomes. In part to me it is about a state of mind and values that over time can lead to some very successful outcomes. Not every day, yet a continuous process that helps us improve the experience and the outcome(s).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFMiZUwZlPlvAvFxVOM8IWXWBSUgFpqC9WKNW7GW2SoiAJcH0xiDvUseOfPBnj1NSF5jmg2kcFzp3CbX7hyJnbkpaoXbursT9sPicDFjgCw-2L-lhDU8l9THP2SdsMfquARzg3epjqsQ/s1600/Standtall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFMiZUwZlPlvAvFxVOM8IWXWBSUgFpqC9WKNW7GW2SoiAJcH0xiDvUseOfPBnj1NSF5jmg2kcFzp3CbX7hyJnbkpaoXbursT9sPicDFjgCw-2L-lhDU8l9THP2SdsMfquARzg3epjqsQ/s320/Standtall.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Ballard</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Perfection</b> to many of us is a slave like commitment to perfection in all places and times. Impossible to live up to every day, yet to some it is an attempt they make every day. People by design cannot be perfect. Nor can they act perfectly.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So, what is your choice? Excellence or Perfection? I'm not here to judge. Just have you consider which one is easier on your heart and head as you travel your path through life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time, Imagine Yourself with more Resiliency for Life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Michael</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">https://about.me/ResilientmMichael</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-53642667275184722492017-03-23T07:07:00.000-04:002017-04-03T08:12:19.424-04:00Thought Distortions Part 3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_l0dk1WAvDudB79bwvth8M61oprVFJoks_gqv6HFEoBXJztYZdtxlOid3FCCIlYEXu7-YY2yzL4BoggQyk-zyQZhV4poOHugsvQO4JVlP_eSSLNY7YsRmjFlxE9wLe5_FR3KoHIZ13rc/s1600/ballard+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_l0dk1WAvDudB79bwvth8M61oprVFJoks_gqv6HFEoBXJztYZdtxlOid3FCCIlYEXu7-YY2yzL4BoggQyk-zyQZhV4poOHugsvQO4JVlP_eSSLNY7YsRmjFlxE9wLe5_FR3KoHIZ13rc/s320/ballard+1.jpg" width="313" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Grandparents learned very early in life to use</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> caution to NOT filter positives out of their lives. Despite</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">serious issues including lack of food they helped create a very</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">supportive and up lifiting family life for themselves and their children.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Filtering. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We take the negative details and magnify them while filtering out all positive aspects of a situation. For instance, a person may pick out a single, unpleasant detail and dwell on it exclusively so that their vision of reality becomes darkened or distorted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Black and White Thinking or Either Or Thinking also known as </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Polarized Thinking</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In polarized thinking, things are either - or.” We have to be perfect or we’re a failure (Excellence eludes us) — there is no middle ground. You place people or situations in “either/or” categories, with no shades of gray or allowing for the complexity of each situation. If your performance is not perfect, you see yourself as a dumb ass failure.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Overgeneralization.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraXCIczohAXvja0lsvcgVkS1Xd7frlwwNCBKpao7-0puagUYXMwyEf6QOuByc_9RvN38QvznfKb4JdVBTIp0ogi3FEa3q4sHKf1qCl5o2xhWLB158Vxqg76h28JqX1-9lRTtGxlDz8jY/s1600/IMG_4564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraXCIczohAXvja0lsvcgVkS1Xd7frlwwNCBKpao7-0puagUYXMwyEf6QOuByc_9RvN38QvznfKb4JdVBTIp0ogi3FEa3q4sHKf1qCl5o2xhWLB158Vxqg76h28JqX1-9lRTtGxlDz8jY/s320/IMG_4564.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I learned in dealing with my chronic and acute health issues</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">that Over generalization and Jumping to Conclusions both</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">blocked happiness and potential abilities to better manage</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">the quality of my health experience.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In this style of thinking, we come to the conclusion based on a single incident or a single piece of evidence. If something bad happens only once, we expect it to happen over and over again. A person may see a single, unpleasant event as part of a never-ending pattern.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Jumping to Conclusions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Without individuals saying so, we know what they are feeling and why they act the way they do. In particular, we are able to determine how people are feeling toward us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For example, a person may conclude that someone is reacting negatively toward them but doesn’t actually bother to find out if they are correct. Another example is a person may anticipate that things will turn out badly, and will feel convinced that their prediction is already an established fact.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Catastrophizing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We expect disaster, no matter what. This is also referred to as “awfullizing, magnifying or minimizing.” We hear about a problem and use <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">what if</em> questions (e.g., “What if tragedy strikes?” “What if it happens to me?”).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For example, a person might exaggerate the importance of insignificant events (such as their mistake, or someone else’s achievement). Or they may inappropriately shrink the magnitude of significant events until they appear tiny (for example, a person’s own desirable qualities or someone else’s imperfections).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif;">So until next time <a href="http://resiliencyforlife.com/IY" target="_blank">Imagine Yourself</a> with more </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">Resiliency for Life</a></span><span style="font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;">.</span></span></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #111111; font-size: 15px; margin-bottom: 1.625em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michael Ballard </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Book Michael to speak at your next event? Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://resiliencyforlife.com/">ResiliencyforLife.com</a>, <a href="https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/" style="font-size: 12px;">https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelHBallard" style="font-size: 12px;">https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelHBallard</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae" style="font-size: 12px;">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-8287477175664517142017-03-04T07:30:00.000-05:002017-03-04T10:27:06.408-05:00Perspective & Thought Distortions Part 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFMiZUwZlPlvAvFxVOM8IWXWBSUgFpqC9WKNW7GW2SoiAJcH0xiDvUseOfPBnj1NSF5jmg2kcFzp3CbX7hyJnbkpaoXbursT9sPicDFjgCw-2L-lhDU8l9THP2SdsMfquARzg3epjqsQ/s1600/Standtall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFMiZUwZlPlvAvFxVOM8IWXWBSUgFpqC9WKNW7GW2SoiAJcH0xiDvUseOfPBnj1NSF5jmg2kcFzp3CbX7hyJnbkpaoXbursT9sPicDFjgCw-2L-lhDU8l9THP2SdsMfquARzg3epjqsQ/s320/Standtall.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who do you allow to <br />challenge your thinking?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;"><br /></span>
<span style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Thought Distortions can also include:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;"><br /></span>
<span style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Always Being Right.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We are continually on trial to prove that our opinions and actions are correct. Being wrong is unthinkable and we will go to any length to demonstrate our rightness. For example, “I don’t care how badly arguing with me makes you feel, I’m going to win this argument no matter what because I’m right.” Being right often is more important than the feelings of others around a person who engages in this cognitive distortion, even loved ones.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NO3aTYXjxbmCykaezFgYQdwrJ_k6FoqFe5TJVqW-ObO0fcNY9LdvJ5j2V3YAOc0-d7G6Dg-h-D87C9CSajrCMGiSk4Umpp1IgoZ4iXI1B-PrWM9C1QmGHDskvqT5VdV982QnI0uVp7s/s1600/IMG_4152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NO3aTYXjxbmCykaezFgYQdwrJ_k6FoqFe5TJVqW-ObO0fcNY9LdvJ5j2V3YAOc0-d7G6Dg-h-D87C9CSajrCMGiSk4Umpp1IgoZ4iXI1B-PrWM9C1QmGHDskvqT5VdV982QnI0uVp7s/s320/IMG_4152.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Going to a calm place and staying there<br />can help us examine our thoughts.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Heaven’s Reward Fallacy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We expect our sacrifice and self-denial to pay off, as if someone is keeping score. We feel bitter when the reward doesn’t arrive.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So thought distortions can get in the way of our happiness, health and success in life. What do you do to keep yours to a minimum?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Until next time <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/IY" target="_blank">Imagine Yourself </a>with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">Resiliency for Life</a>!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Michael Ballard</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To contact Michael and book him for one of your events you can reach him at: ResilientMichael @ gmail.com (No spaces)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelHBallard"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelHBallard</span></a></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-74926745075772723832017-02-22T15:38:00.005-05:002017-02-23T10:59:59.790-05:00Perspective & Thought Distortions Prt 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Perspective, Thought Distortions & Cognitive Distortions </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Learning to filter our thoughts </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">is a very powerful skill.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So here are some of the common <b>Thought Distortions</b> I see my clients have:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Keep Things in Perspective</b>. Even when facing BIGStuff events that could include loss and grief, try </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">to consider the stressful situation in a BIG picture point of view and keep both a short term and longterm set of outcomes in place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Perspective</b>. Avoid blowing the event out of proportion. If you don't, it can lead to what some call Thought Distortions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thought Distortions can be caused in part by a very narrow focus. We get pulled off side by our pain and grief.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhUrb94ZFkjpsnYkbKsWqe1ejpCOFkTG14Kd4kNPgw-2zSjcYmz9pdyodpCquvQnh3p3PwZkQghk980LUJuPTF5fBZkBqCfQ-xvhH96REVlrNwzHRB7eLZJiF0hztWCplAGzQoqCvUks/s1600/BallardVBoxingCor.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhUrb94ZFkjpsnYkbKsWqe1ejpCOFkTG14Kd4kNPgw-2zSjcYmz9pdyodpCquvQnh3p3PwZkQghk980LUJuPTF5fBZkBqCfQ-xvhH96REVlrNwzHRB7eLZJiF0hztWCplAGzQoqCvUks/s320/BallardVBoxingCor.png" width="213" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Learning to <b>not</b> think everyone is against us is<br /> a very powerful & healthy mindset to achieve </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="border: 0px; color: #111111; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="border: 0px; color: #111111; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over Generalization </span></span><span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">In this thought distortion, we come to a conclusion based on a single issue or a single incident or single piece of evidence. If something bad happens even just once, we expect it to happen repeatedly. A person can get caught in a cycle of seeing a one time only event as part of a never-ending pattern of negative issues in their life.</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;">Jumping to Conclusions </span>Individuals who jump to conclusions feel that without others even saying so, they know what others are feeling and why they act the way they do. In particular, they are able to determine how people are feeling toward them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For example, a person may conclude that someone is reacting poorly toward them but doesn’t take the time to find out if they are correct; or a person may feel that things will turn out badly, and will be convinced that their thoughts are already an established fact!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #111111; font-size: large;">These are just two of the mindsets we need to take care not to fall into.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, until next time I wish you a life filled with <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank">Resiliency for Life!</a> Just<a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/IY" target="_blank"> Imagine Yourself</a> with more Resilience.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael Ballard</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://twitter.com/resilientmichae</span><br />
<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">www.YouTube.com/MichaelHBallard</span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-37836554429922259912017-01-04T07:00:00.000-05:002017-01-16T10:33:39.468-05:00Mind Traps<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica";"><b>Avoid Mind Traps </b>or <b>Thinking Traps</b></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica";">: </span></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica";">When things go wrong, do you automatically blame yourself or others? Jump to </span></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: large;">conclusions? Mind Traps place us in very narrow self-limiting ways of thinking and feeling. They limit our options </span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">and our happiness. Life is to short to let our Mind Traps place us in less productive ways of behaviour. How will </span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">you challenge yourself to rid yourself of your Mind Traps?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">I found reading the book Six Thinking Hats very useful in break free of Mind Traps. The book gets you to consider six ways to approach and consider our challenges in life.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqawCAqrWL0WqftSmyKN-6fZ_4CBrChEV4QD-bxfM8011S5X6bjCwf36JUDjy94s6v2P4SdD47DxU7aOgfJipsWFW4FTT4JhHE_q7mtJUelrVkowto3WUjIEuzXx43F1PayZCzOvvqYJ4/s1600/BallardMTorontoStar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqawCAqrWL0WqftSmyKN-6fZ_4CBrChEV4QD-bxfM8011S5X6bjCwf36JUDjy94s6v2P4SdD47DxU7aOgfJipsWFW4FTT4JhHE_q7mtJUelrVkowto3WUjIEuzXx43F1PayZCzOvvqYJ4/s320/BallardMTorontoStar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more </b><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="color: #e4af09;"><b>Resiliency for Life</b></span></a><b>.</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Michael</span></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, teams</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></i></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To interview Michael, book him for your </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;">https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</a></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-72480825855668820332016-12-13T07:30:00.000-05:002016-12-14T14:50:58.382-05:00Self Discovery <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Look for Opportunities for Self-Exploration. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">People often learn something about themselves and may find that they have grown in some respect as a result of their struggle with loss and grief. People who have experienced BIGStuff loss and grief often have reported better relationships, a greater sense of self confidence even while feeling vulnerable, an increased sense of self-worth, a more developed spirituality and a heightened appreciation for life.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I meet Elmo after a meeting<br />at a children's hospital.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So as you go through life's ups and </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">downs </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and some of the ultimate </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">hardships don't forget that:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> - Our point of view is a choice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> - Asking for help is building a team </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> - Sleep is not optional We all need at least 7 / 9 hrs a day</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> - Food is fuel for our mind and body Quality of food impacts our health in all categories</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> - Exercise can be worked into our day </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> - Honour, laughter, joy, and happiness can be planned. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Why wait?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These basic have made a very amazing difference to me. It's up to you to ensure you follow through on them every day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Life is too important to take it so seriously.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more<a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"> Resiliency for Life</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To book Michael for your next event, interview him or to consult contact him at: <a href="mailto:Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com" style="text-decoration: none;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael's online programming can be taken at: <a href="https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Udemy.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael’s Background and Social Media pages include:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/" style="text-decoration: none;">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae" style="text-decoration: none;">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael" style="text-decoration: none;">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span><br />www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-89379912998187247502016-11-29T07:38:00.000-05:002016-12-01T13:21:05.159-05:00The Power of Prayer and of Asking for Group Prayer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Prayer is a very powerful way to be in touch with our creator and those that have gone before us. We can pray alone, pray in small and large groups and as I've learned to ask for; prayer for us or a vital cause near and dear to us. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jQkiYhyHiu_fX8KV03BHNDHNHd4SIgmghl1tYWl2Kdn_zc06jw6ZD57u0dzEmrC55JymEsWZP0VIk9oasJ1k_YqMwX2QmMK_kXBeLkDrWD5g1dmO1xSR55D8CicTDDMpNlwTmqcAZ9U/s1600/IMG_9058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sometimes the journey is more interesting " border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jQkiYhyHiu_fX8KV03BHNDHNHd4SIgmghl1tYWl2Kdn_zc06jw6ZD57u0dzEmrC55JymEsWZP0VIk9oasJ1k_YqMwX2QmMK_kXBeLkDrWD5g1dmO1xSR55D8CicTDDMpNlwTmqcAZ9U/s320/IMG_9058.jpg" title="Sometimes we need to take the longer route" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are often no shortcuts.<br />
Sometimes we have to take the stairs</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At 27 I was challenged by my cancer. I learned days after surgery that I had cancer in four locations I felt several emotions. Anger was there at first very briefly. I did then soon feel afraid, alone at 3:30 am some mornings and in part hopeless that I had to depend on others to help me get through this fight for my life.<br />Then in conversations with my Mom and Dad ~ Dad asked So what else can I do son?<br />Well Dad how about you ask your friends via your work intranet service to put me in their faith prayer groups. I can remember that like yesterday.<br />Within a few days he called back and told me I was in prayer groups around the world. By end of the week he announced I was in over 60 prayer groups. Dad and Mom where very pleased and amazed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dad shared with me "Son you're being prayed for in Temples, Mosques, <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Synagogues, </span>Revival Halls, Gospel Halls, Churches and on every continent expect Antartica. India, Australia, Japan, England, New Zealand, France, Canada, and all over the USA and Canada including Texas, Michigan, Georgia, New York, Colorado, British Columbia, and many many other locations in North America.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I quickly started to feel uplifted. What an incredible life altering experience to have. 60+ prayer groups all asking for me to gain some wisdom from my journey and if possible a healing. So here I am 25 years later. Surprised and delighted and humbled to still be here. Three near death experiences during that 7 year battle with 2 bouts of cancer and one emergency surgery due to a failed medical procedure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Never ever doubt that prayer can assist guide you and alter the quality of your journey and experience. Just remember what will you ask for you when you pray?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, until next time, Imagine Yourself with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="color: #e4af09;">Resiliency forLife</span></a>.<br /><b><br /></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Hiring and Contacting Michael</b><br />To interview Michael, book him for your<br />next event or to contact him you can do that at:<br />Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a></span><br /><b>You can purchase Michael's programming on:</b><br /><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</a></span><br /> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</a></span><br /><b><i>Michael’s Social Media includes:</i></b><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a></span><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a></span><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard">https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard</a></span><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I very soon started to feel uplifted. Very very uplifted. Statistically I'm </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So the next time you feel challenged and or threatened by one of life's bumps in the road don't forget the power of prayer and the power of asking others to assist with that prayer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael</span></span></div>
ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-44887066437496386072016-11-11T11:11:00.000-05:002016-11-14T21:52:43.794-05:00Lest We Forget<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today, I honour all those who have gone before us and served their country's.<br />
Some paid the ultimate sacrifice. Some came home missing a limb, or deeply<br />
challenged with mental health issues. Some did not serve on the front lines, yet<br />
they served us all. Perhaps like my Grandfather Ballard one of your relatives<br />
served in a supportive role. Grandfather Ballard served in the Merchant Marines.<br />
He helped repair submarines from dusk to dawn working with machinists and other<br />
metal workers repairing and or fabricating replacement parts.<br />
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His brother was killed in WWI World War One in France. That was supposed to be<br />
the war to end all wars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAwuc8ZVHQ1-hV0eiZh-9u19hcbROAXmmmBejU6qJiQnkKhqTaL-b5k8FaTY9j9nqh-I_1trBofT_ltV5E40TQ6iI1Z238y1N7w-eF6MeO_zs75as753w7s3qcxsOiE7BH_jsU59ZClM/s1600/JamesFrankBallardGreatUncke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAwuc8ZVHQ1-hV0eiZh-9u19hcbROAXmmmBejU6qJiQnkKhqTaL-b5k8FaTY9j9nqh-I_1trBofT_ltV5E40TQ6iI1Z238y1N7w-eF6MeO_zs75as753w7s3qcxsOiE7BH_jsU59ZClM/s640/JamesFrankBallardGreatUncke.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">Pte. James Frank Ballard</span></td></tr>
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My Grandfather was at sea during most of that war. So he was not home when the news was delivered that his brother Pte. James Frank Ballard had been killed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimV99LuAycw2VclBGUHlQNgxc85rFMqmmGgBpYbOOfrNFvmYj4lQBCIerMhUuNaPnnDyyTZEI-vVmwgCg8FmjC08Vs6OUlBnKtsgG6G627sLBlC1z-a7eNqP2NEkVSP_CTva-2XLACubU/s1600/GrandadBallardHenryPiano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimV99LuAycw2VclBGUHlQNgxc85rFMqmmGgBpYbOOfrNFvmYj4lQBCIerMhUuNaPnnDyyTZEI-vVmwgCg8FmjC08Vs6OUlBnKtsgG6G627sLBlC1z-a7eNqP2NEkVSP_CTva-2XLACubU/s320/GrandadBallardHenryPiano.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henry Ballard 1970's</td></tr>
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Perhaps one of your relatives served in WWII or one of the countless large and small conflicts and wars this crazy world has seen over the past 100 plus years.<br />
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Regardless of who's side one is on this I know to be true, it takes courage to show up and be on time and on purpose to serve ones country. Countless hours of practise, more practise, often not in the best weather or location or with the best kit (gear). Yet they serve.<br />
Today I pay tribute to all of my relatives and friends past and present who have or had served our nation. Lest We Forget.<br />
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So the next time you're having a less than perfect day don't forget to have some gratitude that you and I are able to have this time. They invested and paid a large price for us to have this liberty.<br />
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So don't forget to be grateful. Our freedoms come due to a very large investment from many.</div>
ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.285985499999995 -80.028631299999986 44.0204665 -78.737737299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-11768474586824443672016-10-17T07:30:00.000-04:002016-10-17T11:10:33.215-04:00Smallest Party in the World "The Pity Party"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is a trap that we can all fall into if we are not cautious and stay attentive to our thoughts and words and the resulting feelings that can go along with it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've all had that "Party for One" the "Pity Party" when life seems to be going in the wrong direction! Plus how many of us have tried inviting others to join in our pity parties? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However there is nothing wrong with sharing the cause of our pain be it health, relationships, job, school or family issues. However what does cause us grief is if we chose to live in this grief. Some live in it daily, weekly monthly or yearly. It is acceptable to visit our grief yet living in it can cause us quite a bit of harm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Building a support team, offering support in another area to others can help us start to move forward. So a Pity Party of One is an okay place to land after an upset. Staying there and not moving forward is the biggest issue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Who will you offer to help to help yourself move forward and in what category?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Who will you ask for help to assist you move forward and in what category?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So there is no time like the present! Go get em! </span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more </b><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="color: #e4af09;"><b>Resiliency for Life</b></span></a><b>.</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To interview Michael, book him for your </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.MichaelHBallard.com</span></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</span></a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">https://about.me/resilientmichael</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</span></a></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-16913296507204928362016-09-25T05:29:00.003-04:002016-09-25T12:28:50.724-04:00The Power of Persistance Creating Positive Outcomes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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There is strength and positive outcomes when we stay focused and persistant.<br />
Not that we won't have to make course corrections, do some back peddling from time-to-time and on occasion take a new approach. Yet persistence to see a project to completion is a vital set of traits.<br />
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So the next time you want to walk away from an issue remember the following statistics.<br />
80% of a sales B2B are made on the fifth to twelfth contact.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYhor-pTp2qhxUiDbBfX7aL71AFJNHl7dDE183NcCvO9UQdWlwKD6e5SmrbK0UIpmqBZTiee-z-U4Ia6RrZP7JZa0Fnk1Tk-t_I0O0nQ9W5Ogft-eGlmws5sQosqijzoQFQvjLnKVssI/s1600/13934629_1222797404421272_6635540323000433562_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYhor-pTp2qhxUiDbBfX7aL71AFJNHl7dDE183NcCvO9UQdWlwKD6e5SmrbK0UIpmqBZTiee-z-U4Ia6RrZP7JZa0Fnk1Tk-t_I0O0nQ9W5Ogft-eGlmws5sQosqijzoQFQvjLnKVssI/s320/13934629_1222797404421272_6635540323000433562_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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So take heart that the no's you're getting along with the, not now, it's the wrong time, we're very happy with our current situation (and there are dozens more) are delaying tactics. They aren't ready for your message, your services or products. Perhaps they are close minded, really are happy in their current situation and (I know you've heard so many of them) so, regardless a new angle, a redesigned approach, a change in approach can and will make a difference.<br />
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Don't give up on yourself.<br />
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So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more Resiliency for Life.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: 'San Francisco', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; letter-spacing: -0.24px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, show up and NEVER give up!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: 'San Francisco', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; letter-spacing: -0.24px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Unknown</span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-61669907822542293362016-08-16T07:15:00.000-04:002016-09-23T16:39:22.451-04:00Asking for Help<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When we get weary, and we all get weary from time to time asking for help when we feel stuck at home, work, school or life is not a sign of weakness.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where and with who do you connect and share a conversation with?</td></tr>
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So this post is short and to the point. Who do you have in your life that you are engaged and connected with that you can share you're best and toughest moments with? Where? When? How often? Part of being resilient is giving ourselves permission to build a team that we are supported in.<br />
We offer support and get support. Respect and boundaries are established and we all benefit.<br />
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So again, who supports you? Who do you support?<br />
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So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more Resiliency for Life.<br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span></div>
ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-79293369185796707802016-07-22T11:27:00.002-04:002016-07-22T11:37:05.230-04:00The Power of our Words<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nEHb1Uvq9JJtNXIDtMElD7XH8XEDoKzxygFs5dWVyx27ashPhJuLrXQLLktgWXatbPRf_8f0vS1VYJ8fhA4NyBRIqfGi-zIV2SAvRmDFo6gkvTML38sIpoYtxDlbaQfhKl1fPMhG7tg/s1600/ballard+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nEHb1Uvq9JJtNXIDtMElD7XH8XEDoKzxygFs5dWVyx27ashPhJuLrXQLLktgWXatbPRf_8f0vS1VYJ8fhA4NyBRIqfGi-zIV2SAvRmDFo6gkvTML38sIpoYtxDlbaQfhKl1fPMhG7tg/s320/ballard+1.jpg" width="312" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It happened many many years ago. Long before I was born. Yet it impacted my family in a very profound way. One nasty comment changed the course of many lives. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It seemed one man felt superior to another. He told my Grandfather to "know his place". Ouch. Seems he felt my hard working Grandfather should not attempt to better himself and the lot of his family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That comment along with a few other factors meant Granddad and Grandmother booked a one way ticket with their family and made their way to Canada. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Fast forward and one of his Grandchildren (Not me) has a business that employees over 67 staff. So think of what that one hateful comment contributed to. My Grandparents changed countries in part due to that nasty rhetoric. Now his former country and part of my heritage is short 67 taxpayers. Then again on the other hand Canada is 67 taxpayers ahead from just one of the Grandkids. I know another one (Not me) who helped a firm of 25+ move from bankruptcy into profitability and they now employ over 25 people.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, when we discuss hot button issues and topics other opinions are what they are. However when they demean, reduce, objectify, sideline (and so many other things) use caution on how you deal with them. Others are entitled to their opinion however agreeing with opinions that reduce others will in the end reduce what others think of you. In some cases they can cut you right out of their lives. Collaboration and cooperation are powerful and uplifting ways to live.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our world is currently running on FEAR. Many when operating on feat react and reduce or stop thinking based on facts. Instead they operate far to often on feelings. Rhetoric and misconceptions become the keys to how people act and react to each other and the news of the day.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So use</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> extreme caution</b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> when those you listen to, influence you and share time with you </span><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">use hate and</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> language</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <b>that divides</b> too build engagement with you. It tells me quite a bit about what sort of person they are and the values and morales they have. They are not using language that builds healthy countries, organizations, cities, families or individuals. Indeed image of the same language was used against them?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, inclusion takes more effort, more skill, and more patience. However division is a fools game. Much easier to run, get people on board and claim victory. However at what cost? At what cost? The quote "Those that don't know or understand history are doomed to repeat it", is used often for a powerful reason.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more </b><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="color: #e4af09;"><b>Resiliency for Life</b></span></a><b>.</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To interview Michael, book him for your </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">www.MichaelHBallard.com</span></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</span></a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://about.me/resilientmichael</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</span></a></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-35025597074530121722016-06-21T18:51:00.000-04:002016-06-27T18:07:58.339-04:00Nurture a Positive Mindset of Yourself<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Developing confidence in your ability to solve problems and trusting your instincts helps build your resilience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In that famous quote by Stephen Covey he asked: </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At home after a media interview</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> "What have you done to sharpen Saw? He meant how have you developed your problem solving skills? Have you read a book? Taken a course? Watched a video? Improved your fitness?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What problem solving books have you read? I'm a big fan of each of these four books. All of them have added to my problem solving and creativity skill set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Six Thinking Hats</b> and the follow up <b>Six Action Shoes</b> are written by <b>Edward de Bono</b>. In Six Thinking Hats de Bono shares six ways to consider each and every problem that we face. In Six Action Shoes he shares six ways to consider implementing each of the potential solutions we are faced with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My next two favourite books on problem solving and creativity are:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> - <b>A Wack on the Side of the Head</b> and a <b>Kick in the Seat of the Pants</b> are two books on creativity by <b>Roger von Oeck</b>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In each he offers a process to help us widen and deepen our creativity to maximize our potential solutions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a A Kick in the Seat of the Pants he want you to tap into and use: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Your Explorer, Artist, Judge, and Warrior to Be More Creative</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In his book A Wack in the Side of the Head Roger takes you through:</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">One of my ready to present looks!</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ten mental locks that block our creativity he tells us they are:</span></div>
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1. The Right Answer 2. That's Not Logical 3. Follow the Rules 4. Be Practical 5. Play is Frivolous 6. That's Not My Area 7. Don't Be Foolish 8. Avoid Ambiguity 9. To Err Is Wrong 10. I'm Not Creative</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I've enjoyed each of these books several times over. Each have helped me and clients many many times over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So until next time Imagine Yourself with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">Resiliency for LIfe</a>.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, teams</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To book Michael for your next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.MichaelHBallard.com</span></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3662629986085105007" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3662629986085105007" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b><span style="font-size: large;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Udemy.com </b>at:</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/"><span style="font-size: large;">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes"><span style="font-size: large;">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</span></a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae"><span style="font-size: large;">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael"><span style="font-size: large;">https://about.me/resilientmichael</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</a></span></span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-57972885227204037742016-05-25T07:30:00.000-04:002016-06-04T22:42:49.496-04:003 Things to Deepen Your Ability to Thrive<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Resiliency is traditionally defined as our ability to <i>spring back</i> from and successfully <i>adapt to adversity</i>. Resilient people are often flexible in their thinking, endure difficulty with a realistic outlook and use the experience in self- empowering ways. I'd add it always increase the quality of the experience. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Get out and exercise That helps us in all areas of our life. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't hide behind too much task based "work"</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Resilience is in part due to our journey to date, lessons </span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">learned</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">, skills applied, used and the networks we have developed, managed and engaged in that we support and in turn support us in return. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: left;"><b>Maintain a Hopeful Outlook.</b></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">An realistic yet optimistic outlook enables you to </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">expect that good things will happen in your life. Try visualizing what you </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">want, rather than worrying about what you fear.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDD7S6RSZTKSzv3f8iTaRJEmTojJDjgeFYeCeim4r4QyIsVgz1j68IL_SOwYkGD8km1EbVhdkU2caIIshMT3Vv8Ed0rSJMvpqNm7idaJzdy4u4MmgCu3eMGysk5B8XVKJ8gfqUNGbAc0/s1600/BreadStuffBakery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDD7S6RSZTKSzv3f8iTaRJEmTojJDjgeFYeCeim4r4QyIsVgz1j68IL_SOwYkGD8km1EbVhdkU2caIIshMT3Vv8Ed0rSJMvpqNm7idaJzdy4u4MmgCu3eMGysk5B8XVKJ8gfqUNGbAc0/s320/BreadStuffBakery.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Take the time to get out and be social.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Invest in the time to meet and engage with others people</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Exercise regularly.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Taking care of yourself helps to keep your mind and body primed to deal </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">with situations that require resilience. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><b>Go in for a check up or a "tune up". </b>It can be life altering for </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">some of us. Better to catch things when they are annoying then when</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"> it's either too late or a serious change to your life.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRTRoV6sb8iSj-8cm5mGPkDOi0zmqGot4ZSCRvu7rOW7jpjgWfpPe9ISCiRNLBy0H7fSZOPajTU6c-gMwQ8hcI33P3KkotZofWjJfRH4J7l1vjG2C1RBXk7WlE-H2pmxROGiPLfU6F4I/s1600/IMG_4564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRTRoV6sb8iSj-8cm5mGPkDOi0zmqGot4ZSCRvu7rOW7jpjgWfpPe9ISCiRNLBy0H7fSZOPajTU6c-gMwQ8hcI33P3KkotZofWjJfRH4J7l1vjG2C1RBXk7WlE-H2pmxROGiPLfU6F4I/s320/IMG_4564.jpg" title="Get that Check Up!" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Get a check up!</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Take the time to play</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">. </span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">One can get so task focused that we don't take the time to relax and play. What do you love to do? When is the last time you did it? I love to bike, roller blade, swim, read, and practise photography. Not all at once. But for 20 - 90 minutes I do one or more of those several times a week. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">Until next time Imagine Yourself with more </span><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Resiliency for Life.</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To book Michael for your next event, interview him or to consult with him contact him at: </span><a href="mailto:Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael's online programming can be discovered at: <a href="https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/" target="_blank">Udemy.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael’s Background and Social Media pages include:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span></span></div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-72618892169308635262016-05-10T14:40:00.000-04:002016-05-10T22:05:21.282-04:00The Resilient Workforce<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">by Michael H Ballard</span></em></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Resiliency is defined as,</span><i style="border: 0px; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> “Our capacity to bounce back.”</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I define it as, “Our capacity to increase the quality of our experience</i> <i style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">and the outcomes.”</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.talentculture.com/tchat-previews/tchat-preview-building-a-culture-of-resiliency/" style="border: 0px; color: #0083c9; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" title="#TChat Preview: Building A Culture Of Resiliency">Creating and maintaining a resilient workforce</a> takes, vision, mission, diligence and resources. In a world of work that is experiencing global competition, key issues include:</span></div>
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<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Attracting top talent</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Keeping talent engaged</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moving from training to talent management </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Canoe time with my brother.</span></td></tr>
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<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Treating career development seriously</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Acknowledging the costs and efforts to manage mental health and chronic health issues</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Changing HR function</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The potential organizational paybacks of having resiliency as a key set of factors are impressive. They enhance workplace productivity and lower costs for:</span></div>
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<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recruitment</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Safety</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Retention</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lowering cost of physical health issues</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the world-of-work keeping staff and organizations on an even keel takes time and effort. Each client I’ve have worked with has been on a path of diligently working to gain staff, management, and supplier engagement and to ensure a high quality and congruent approach. They’ve ranged in size from small software start up with a staff of seven, to an international firm with an excess of 10,000 employees; governments, NGO’s, health care and educational organizations, and all are challenged by this.</span></div>
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How is this an issue?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One international client started off locally by hiring several facilitators and had 900+ employees brainstorm what key factors they wanted to have introduced, changed or released in the workplace. Spouses were also invited to participate in round three of the brainstorming session. They where prompted to discuss workplace culture and “missing links” and added insights on next steps they felt would assist their partners in being happier and more productive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of my smaller clients in retail made a bold category-busting move. They decided to break all industry pay-scale standards, and over time started rewarding staff who had stayed more than a year… this was 20 – 60% above industry standard. Productivity went up significantly and retention soared. Last time I knew, the owner reported that his business was at a factor of six times the national average for productivity and was at only 9% of the national average for damaged and broken products.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The clients that made successful use of technology to assist in their business, felt this helped better engage their employees. One had a toll-free line installed so staff could call to learn late-breaking corporate news. There they heard from the President, all VPs and on occasion a few key customers took turns sharing brief 30 – 120 seconds thoughts on current corporate and market place news. <span style="border: 0px; line-height: 1.714285714; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The organization has an FM radio station that broadcasts the key message of the day, themed on the week and the month.</span></span></div>
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An example of one client’s approach:</span></h3>
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<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Staff developed mini educational programs 12 minutes in length, which they present at weekly meetings.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Leadership developed a tightly woven vision statement. It was created as a powerful message that drives the three key points of their mandate to their staff, suppliers and management team.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">All employees conduct 15-minute meetings at the beginning of every work shift to recap key issues.</span></li>
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How is this helpful?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Having and creating from the bottom up and the top down, plus having suppliers and spouses on board helps.</span></div>
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<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When spouses understand that safety in the work place is not just “talk” and that in heavy-industry lives are at stake and that things change.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When sales teams are on-board with the approach.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When Quality Control understands that their role is about how products need to be perfect.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When people need strive for excellence things change for the better.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 36px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Use of encouraging language brought everyone into the loop on the “Language of Resiliency” and using it to change for the better.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46woHNsNz75t7mcEY2yCWut7jDDNhNGgUxgDNsf8mKXhBWAGJXn9d55HnspDBu9fM0tltR_shUN3mmJwxTYbjOorMZW8FfTEsq_QbOFZ_xaXCxYyiAVrHEIIILNB78n8bESXwzommq94/s1600/ResilientWorkPlace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46woHNsNz75t7mcEY2yCWut7jDDNhNGgUxgDNsf8mKXhBWAGJXn9d55HnspDBu9fM0tltR_shUN3mmJwxTYbjOorMZW8FfTEsq_QbOFZ_xaXCxYyiAVrHEIIILNB78n8bESXwzommq94/s320/ResilientWorkPlace.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For my clients the payoffs have included: reduced cost of production, increased quality, higher sales, more stable market share, reduced absentee rates and according to one General Manager, “more happiness” in his offices.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The cost of ignoring the warning signs and not becoming a resilient organization has many potential outcomes. All of them are expensive. I do know that organizations and individuals that embrace resiliency in the workplace respond to and resolve issues faster with less turmoil.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more<a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/" target="_blank"> Resiliency for Life</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To book Michael for your next event, interview him or to consult contact him at:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="mailto:Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael's online programming can be taken at: <a href="https://www.udemy.com/user/michaelhballard/" target="_blank">Udemy.com</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael’s Background and Social Media pages include:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">www.ResiliencyforLife.com</span></div>
<br /></div>
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-43075835138449156922016-04-12T07:21:00.000-04:002016-05-11T11:18:24.793-04:00Wisdom gained from Ward<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My first sales manager as
the "new kid" in sales was Ward Parsons. I'd been promoted from Sales
Support were I'd been a R.I.C. Retail Installation Coordinator to Account
Manager. I was very excited. After 11 months in the first position (Well over 80,000
miles and over 32 new or renovated stores completed) I was now in the position
I'd applied for initially. Bonus was I'd be having my sales training done by Trevor Hunt.
That was a first rate addition to my career.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, I'd had been fortunate
to have several significant people up until this point help guide, direct and
assist me grow my professionalism. However Ward was the first one that was
there in a career position whose role was to ensure I grew my professional
skills. Wards work with me has had some career long positive
implications. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Art of Questions <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ward was very good at
asking questions. Some to relax you, and some to help you settle in. Then he
used others to draw you out and learn more about your week, your hobbies, your
upcoming holiday and in one case a dessert he heard I very much enjoyed. Then as the timing fit he'd ease you into a position of asking the ones he had to get to that were work related.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He was very gifted at asking supportive questions.
So, Michael how can I or the folks at head office support you on this? So, he
acknowledged issues, gave me ownership over the issue and offered to be a
resource to assist fixing or improving the situation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The biggest gift Ward
always offered up was that 100% of his attention was invested in a very non
threatening way so you knew his presence and concentration was there with you
at the table. Some would say he was practicing being mindful and in the
moment, others would say he paid attention. Regardless of what you call it to
this fellow (I was just 12 months fresh out of college) he was the right man
for the job!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My career time with him was short. Only about 22 months. Yet his impact is still going forward to this day. His inquiry style of questions, non threatening, often moderately paced made meetings with me ones to look forward to. He to use the current buzz word was first rate at engaging people and drawing them out.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, how do you ask
questions? How do you listen once you've asked? What do you do to manage or get
rid of distractions with coworkers, family or neighbours? Ward was so
good at it that long before it was popular I started calling him Coach. I
hope for your sake that you have at least one person in your life like Ward and
in time we have more of what he always offered. Being in the moment and being engaged with those we spend time with.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, until next time
Imagine Yourself with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/"><span style="color: #420178;">Resiliency for Life</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 2px;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, teams</span></i></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 2px;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To book Michael for your </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</a></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
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ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-74357065683765922802016-03-09T07:30:00.000-05:002016-03-28T12:59:46.407-04:00When BIGStuff Happens to you, what do you do?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What do you do when you hit a wall with one of life's BIG Stuff events?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What could you do, when you feel over whelmed? Who do you connect with? When? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Trigger Warning</b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">: </span><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For some this column could </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">contain trigger words or phrases.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>First</b> there is no wrong answer(s), feelings or thoughts unless self harm or harm of others </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">is a potential.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Second</b> each of us use language differently. So words and phrases that I find easy to use and 100% acceptable you might not enjoy or find mildly to very disrespectful. I look forward to a respectful discussion if any of the content you find here you disagree with.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, all words and phrases used here have been used with respect by others in conversation with me as their coach, trainer, friend and or neighbour. Do let me know what you think.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many of them I've heard many times and a few are relatively new to me </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So what do you do ... </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">what have you done, what should you do to support yourself when life's </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">BIGStuff challenges strike? That could be personal, relationship, family, friend, classmate, or a current or past </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">neighbour.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So it happens to all of us. Something BIG happens and hurts. What do you do?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Create space that is ours and use quiet time for</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b> </b></span> - read a book</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - watch a movie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - take a soak in the tub</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - call a friend</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - write a letter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - write in your journal</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - visit a friend</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - go to a special spot for reflection </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - calming through steady movement or stillness via music, sounds of nature, a mediation practise</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Create and use active time for</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - energizing through activity and or conversation and or observation</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - go to a special spot to burn off some energy and unwind </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Get out and about </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - a walk Around your floor, your building, your block, to the park, around the office</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - a walk and a talk A good business friend Gail taught me this </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Meditative walk No talking </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> You practise walking with slow to mid range speed with a steady pace & steady breaths</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Yoga</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Martial Arts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Hiking</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Biking</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Swimming</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Hobbie</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Going to the:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Therapist,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - The Mental Health Expert, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - The Crazy</span> Doctor,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - The Stretch Coach as in stretch thinking and feeling into better patterns </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - A Wellness Coach</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Mental Health Tune Up Coach</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Volunteering </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Going in for a:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Check up from the Neck Up! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - A Mental Health Tune UP, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - A Good Old Fashion Check Up</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - A Rant and Rave!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkZqGn6hZAsWG-5EPmKTr17fkahYqJZNK4Kjg_m4YmyzzwdSRSOW4iAP4iwo530WVUSkKt-SuzPrQuYVY9YQMa4xORPNAlSdVF92FEb_8E7OJZB0bdQ183vSbrlOT0sgsU4W9iDGuEq4/s1600/BreadStuffBakeryCommunityQuote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkZqGn6hZAsWG-5EPmKTr17fkahYqJZNK4Kjg_m4YmyzzwdSRSOW4iAP4iwo530WVUSkKt-SuzPrQuYVY9YQMa4xORPNAlSdVF92FEb_8E7OJZB0bdQ183vSbrlOT0sgsU4W9iDGuEq4/s320/BreadStuffBakeryCommunityQuote.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I'm at a favourite spot enjoying the coffee.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>After a time of reflection</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b> </b>- make a list </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - a call to action lets get the feelings acknowledged and thought out next steps to move forward</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is not supposed to be an exhaustive list.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However it is to get you thinking and moving into action for your sake.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>When should you start? </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Why not right now?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have a gift for you. No strings attached.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At this link you can down load a 30 minute progressive muscle relaxation exercise. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Practise it gently, for at least 21days in a row then 3 or 4 days a week for another tow or three weeks. Then once or twice a week for maintenance. I had a coaching client (Who I only took on after I knew she was under a doctors care and had had recent CT Scan and blood work to ensure this was not a medically caused migraine) who had had 5 - 7 migraines a month and many many serious head aches each month. This was one of the main exercises she did to break the cycle of those darn migraines. Within about four months she had them down to 0 - zero every month! She helped her mind/body create added ways to cope and an outlet to release stress on a regular basis. Plus her headaches reduced in frequency and intensity and they also disappeared by the fifth month. Exciting news for someone who had had migraines for 15+ years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Your helping develop and deepen your ability to notice stress and learn how to relax sooner and more completely. You'll be surprised at how effective it is. Click on The Chair a Relaxation Exercise and you can listen to the audio there and follow the link to download. </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/michael-h-ballard/the-chair-a-progressive-relaxation-audio-male-adult" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">The Chair a relaxation exercise</a> It has helped me change how I now respond to stress and anxiety. I had a seven year battle with 2 bouts of cancer and a failed medical procedure that ended up with me having emergency surgery at midnight. This exercise can help you make a significant different in your life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is another way to help you practise calmness. the exercise is called a:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.slideshare.net/Resilientmichael/qts-quick-tension-scan" target="_blank">Quick Tension Scan</a> or a <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/Resilientmichael/qts-quick-tension-scan" target="_blank">QTS</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is another one to do for 28 days I suggest before every meal and about 10 - 20 minutes before bedtime. Then three or four times a week for maintenance. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So this article was not intended to be a through list. It's meant to stimulate a conversation with yourself. With someone you can trust. Stuck. Not fun. Ask for help. </span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So let me leave you with a couple of question.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - How do you see life's stressful situations?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A time to learn lessons or an ultimatum? For those of us who work towards seeing each stressful situation as a lesson to be learned it can be much less stressful. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Who do you have on your support team We all need and deserve one. The time to build one is now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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</span>
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<div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 2px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So until next time, Imagine Yourself with more <a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">Resiliency for Life</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b></b><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 2px;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael Ballard specializes in helping people, schools, teams</span></i></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 2px;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">organizations and communities learn how to become more resilient.</span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hiring and Contacting Michael</span></b></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To book Michael for your </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">next event or to contact him you can do that at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Inquiry@MichaelHBallard.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.michaelhballard.com/">www.MichaelHBallard.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can purchase Michael's programming on:</span></b></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Udemy.com video </b>programs at:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/">https://www.udemy.com/u/michaelhballard/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <b>iTunes.com</b> <b>audio programs</b> at:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes">https://itunes.apple.com/album/id997763796?ls=1&app=itunes</a></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Michael’s Social Media includes:</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae">https://twitter.com/ResilientMichae</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://about.me/resilientmichael">https://about.me/resilientmichael</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/resiliency-for-life/</a></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.resiliencyforlife.com/">http://www.resiliencyforlife.com</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</div>
ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3662629986085105007.post-83460558724862362892016-02-15T19:10:00.000-05:002016-03-28T13:02:02.855-04:00Rick Somerton The Man Remembered<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Rick Somerton<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">The man remembered<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">I first meet Rick during my
final semester of college. I was bound and determined to have a job before
graduation. I figured why wait to graduate and compete with all the other
thousands of students who would be graduating at the same time. So, start now!
So in December (I was going to complete the program in April – Graduate in Late
June) I started researching who I wanted to work for upon graduation. I started
to read and research who I might want to work with. I boldly drew up my list of
Top 100 companies I wanted to invest my time and efforts with. It
was by parts daunting, exciting, tiring, and exhilarating.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">I booked some interviews. I
interviewed people in HR and several in the sales and marketing, plus the owner
of a very successful import firm who had a sales and marketing team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
the interviews I went back and drafted up two types of resumes. One resumes for
sales and one for marketing positions . Then the hunt began in earnest. I
started mailing out letters of introduction and my resume.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">However, it does keep one
humble when the rejections letters started coming back. Yes in my first go
round of job search, companies sent back to me "Thanks but no Thanks"
letters. I think I got about 12 of them for the 30 or so positions I applied
for. However out of the first 33 applications sent out I got serious interest
from 3 firms. I managed to get two interviews with each of them. One of them
decided I was not the right fit, one I decided I was not a fit and the third
one made me an offer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">However during this series
of back and forth interviews I kept researching and looking for that first
career position. I was deep into January when a very tiny ad appeared in the
newspaper. Social Expression company looking for front line sales professional,
slaes training provided. Well I didn't know what a social expression
company was. However I quickly got myself on the phone and it turned out to be
a placement agency. I'd never worked with a placement agency before. However
I was not going to let that stop me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">I meet with the agency the
next day. I had an appointment with the firm in under three days. Both
appointments went very well. Then I went back to the agency we recapped the
interview. I was called back to the company for a second interview and after
that interview was asked to stay and meet Rick. This was a life affirming and
game changing series of events.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">I didn't know it at the
time, however I found out later I was "competing" for this position
in the beginning with over 200 other candidates. The Human Resources Department
narrowed the field<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>down to the 12 of us.
The 12 of us each got interviewed and then HR narrowed the field down to
eight. Then Rick interviewed the 8 of us, one at at time. Then just the 3 of us
where back for another interview then just the two of us. Unknown to me a
very special professional in the industry had been invited to also apply.
I found out later I was competing against an industry professional
from a competitor. I learned later they'd decided it was time to be more
progressive and hire their first female sales professional. Yeah! Oh wait... I
didn't get the position. I know I know my first reaction was Drats But wait:
Rick made an offer I could not refuse that took not only took the sting out of
it but offered me a change to develop, deepen and practise several valuable skill
sets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">It seems I scored very high
in my aptitude test on mechanical abilities. Would I consider starting off as a
Retail Installation Coordinator or a RIC (I teased him about naming a job
position after himself - a few months later). I learned I'd be in charge of new
and renovated in-store fixturing set ups and on occasion merchandising as well.
Exciting times. Plus I'd lead teams of up to 12 on the set up crews and
on the merchandising teams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">I held that position for 10
months and during that time we opened and renovated well over 32 stores across
Ontario. Plus I was given the opportunity to work in the interior of
British Columbia and help renovate our department in a series of department
stores. It was a busy time! During these months I drove over 80,000 miles and I
lost track of how many miles in the air and car rental miles I racked up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">It was starting to get
tiring towards the end of the 10 months between the miles, the hours and being
away from home a change was wanted.. However there was also a very big sense of
accomplishment to go along with it all. I enjoyed hiring, training each of the
set up crews. Plus I was very pleased and proud of a exceptional perfect safety
record. Zero accidents despite the urgency of the set ups and the less than
ideal working conditions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">However being called into
Rick's office for a meeting with a one week lead time left me time to wonder
"What's up?" It was good news I was being promoted and moving from
the Sales Support Team into the position of Sales Trainee. Better still of all
the trainers in the firm I was going to be training with Mr. Trevor Hunt. He
had a first rate track record having worked his way up the corporate ladder in
the England and then come to Canada to work in the firm. He had quite a
bit of experience and was a very gifted trainer. That was a very good meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">So Rick then shared a life
altering piece of insight that has helped me better understand myself and shape
all of the consulting, training, coaching and mentoring I've done since. Rick
shared with me a learning model that helped me better understand myself and all
those I'm with ever since. It really was an Ah Ha! moment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Rick introduced me to the: <b>Four
States of Awareness</b>, also known as the <b>Four States of Consciousness</b>.
They go something like this:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">First State of
Consciousness or Awareness</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">In this state of
consciousness or awareness "We don't know-We don't know" So little
stuff and big stuff keeps happening to us. Yet we are 100% unaware of the why.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Second State of
Consciousness or Awareness</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">In this state of
consciousness or awareness "We know-We don't know" So little stuff
and big stuff keeps happening to us. However now we understand there is a
cause and effect. WE know we have some choices and some learning to do. It can
be a time of great excitement and or a time of great anger and frustration.
"Why didn't anyone tell me before?"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Third State or
Consciousness or Awareness</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">In this state of
consciousness or awareness "We know we know.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">We are not yet 100% aware
of the W5 (Who, what, where, when, why and how) Yet we are underway. Changing,
learning, growing and expanding our awareness and skills. We are becoming
competent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">In this state of
consciousness we know we don't know it all yet, however we are learning,
process, names, skills and expanding our awareness and looking for "What's
next?"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Fourth State or
Consciousness or Awareness</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">In this state of
consciousness many would say we are unconsciously competent, We have potentially
forgotten the names, and process to doing things.We do them as a habit. Not
consciously. Yet, at one time we had to learn the process, names, skills
and practise to be productive. Now it's a habit. Just happens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">These four types of
consciousness helped me better understand exactly where I was when dealing with
personal and professional issues as well as when consulting with business
clients or volunteering.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">So my question to you is:
Where do you stand on something in life that is blocking you? Perhaps you're
stuck in a state of Unconsciousness like the First State. I know I had a friend
who refused to learn anything about managing a serious health issue. In turn
they had an excessive amount of pain and suffering. They refused to move from
the pain and discomfort they had physically and emotionally with their illness
through the discomfort of learning some vital information rationally and then
using it. I still don't fathom it. They suffered long and deep for 20 years.
Instead of a few classes with a health educator "Imagine taking lessons at
my age." they'd told me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">So it's not good or bad or
right or wrong to be in any of these state of consciousness. However it's
potentially expensive and painful to be in the first state, annoying and trying
to be in the second on, and liberating and hard work as we learn in the third
state and life is much easier as we have the courage and persistence to attain
the fourth state of consciousness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Years later I decided
(quite boldly I'd suggest) that this model from the 12th or 13th century was
amazing, yet could do with some states of awareness and conciseness. However more
on that at in another column.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16.0pt;">So until next time, Imagine
Yourself with more Resiliency for life.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
ResilientMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03683592218721663237noreply@blogger.com0