Personal Growth Cafe

April 13, 2019March 12, 2018

How to Live Your Life with Intense Purpose

Wandering around aimlessly from day to day provides absolutely no benefit to you or those around you.

An unspecified purpose leaves you frustrated and lacking direction with everything you do.

If you don’t already know your purpose in life, take some time to reflect on what it may be.

Then make sure everything you do lines up with this purpose.

Discover Your Purpose

In order to find your purpose, look at the things you love to do and what makes you tick.

The trick is to figure out where you draw your internal energy from and where your gifts and talents are best used.

What do you do to recharge your batteries?

What do you absolutely love to do?

Take a little time to figure this out and then focus on it.

Choose Activities That Fulfill Your Purpose

Once you identify your purpose, look at the things you do on a day-to-day basis.

Do these activities add to your purpose or take away from it?

Everything you say, do, think and act on should complement your purpose and help fulfill you.

If it isn’t doing this, either drop the activity or delegate it to someone else.

An example of a purpose you might have is to provide a healthy and comfortable life for your partner and children.

What types of activities do you think fall in line with this purpose?

Let’s look at a few and see how they line up with your personal life purpose.

1. Cooking. Cooking your own food allows you to be the top chef.

You get to choose the ingredients in your food, rather than relying on some other person or company.

You can take out the salt, add flavor with herbs and spices, and reduce your portions to create something that fits within your family’s healthy lifestyle.

Plus you’re saving money, which can be used for your children’s education or a family retreat.

2. Cleaning. Keeping a clean house fulfills both the healthy and comfortable parts of your purpose.

By doing things like dusting, washing dishes, and taking out the garbage, you’re staying healthy.

Removing the clutter creates a more comfortable environment.

3. Exercise. Exercising, along with activities like yoga and meditation, help keep your mind and body healthy and comfortable.

These activities keep your weight down and make you feel better inside and out, which will also keep you strong for your family.

As you can see, each one of these activities adds to your purpose.

Things that distract you from your purpose might include eating out excessively, living beyond your means, and even sitting around doing nothing all day.

Negative or unfulfilling activities can be exchanged for the ones that supercharge both you and your life purpose.

Live With Purpose at Work, Too

For your professional purpose, you might have a passion to plan social events for you and your coworkers.

You can accomplish this by volunteering for your company’s activities committee or being on a board that plans events and meetings.

You can also start your own activity group and get things together for employee birthday parties in the office.

You can see how these ideas and actions fall directly in line with your passion and purpose.

Obviously you still have to get your job done, but you can certainly use your free time to fulfill your purpose.

Once you’ve identified your purpose, I challenge you to live your life with intensity toward that purpose.

Do everything you can to focus on your calling with the things you say, think and do.

If it isn’t necessary or doesn’t align with your goals, let it go.

Living your life with intense purpose renews your passion for life and enables you to be the best you can be.

It strengthens your self-confidence and, best of all, brings self-fulfillment.

Find your purpose today, and give it all you’ve got!

What is your purpose in life?

How are you making your life meaningful?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Also, as your gift for taking this to heart – and this is profoundly important… to us ALL – go to UnitingPlanetEarth.com/ignition/ and do the Uniting Planet Earth 7-Day Quick-Start Ignition Program… and Allow it to Transform Your Life.

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April 12, 2019March 12, 2018

How to Respond to Criticism

Constructive criticism is a good thing.

It helps you improve yourself and refine your skills.

Destructive criticism, on the other hand, is useless and serves no good purpose, aside from hurting your feelings.

Destructive Criticism – What Should You Do?

Even though it’s difficult receiving destructive and negative criticism, you should still listen to it.

This type of criticism is normally motivated out of someone else’s need to feel superior, but there may be a shred of truth in there somewhere.

Try not to take it personally because, chances are, you’re not the problem.

The person lashing out may be feeling envious or jealous, which colors their opinion.

Destructive criticism tends to be a personal attack.

When the heart of an insult or comment is you (rather than something you’ve done), it is destructive and should be ignored.

After all, no one has the right to determine your self-esteem!

Constructive Criticism – How to Respond Appropriately

Constructive criticism is meant to help you. Listen carefully to what the person is saying.

When the speaker is finished, ignore any personal attacks and simply let them know you’ll consider your actions.

Constructive criticism can be useful if it’s based on performance or behavior.

We don’t always see our own behaviors in the same way others do, so listening to others’ viewpoints can be helpful.

Constructive criticism usually comes from a place of genuine concern.

If the person giving the criticism didn’t care about you, they wouldn’t offer the criticism in the first place.

If you receive professional constructive criticism from a superior, you should take notes and ask questions.

If your boss is giving you constructive criticism about your job performance, take it to heart.

Your boss is likely speaking from experience and their job is to help you improve and excel.

If they’re taking time out of their day to offer their insight, it means they value you as an employee and believe you can do better, so the least you can do is listen.

Types of Constructive Criticism

There are certain expressions you can look for to know you’re receiving constructive criticism.

If you hear these, then recognize the person is trying to help you rather than attack you.

Listen well to these types of criticism, analyze if there is credence to what is being said, and then act on their suggestions.

1. The compliment sandwich. Someone gives you a compliment followed by a suggestion for an area of improvement and then finally, another compliment.

This tells you that the person sees the good things you do and thinks you can improve further.

2. Encouragement criticism. In this type of constructive criticism, the person is trying to help you do better at something you’re already doing fairly well.

This tells you the person knows you try hard and maybe even wants to help you take it to the next level.

3. Thank you. If the conversation starts with someone thanking you for a job well done, you can be sure that they appreciate your efforts.

This person usually wants to help you do better because they like you.

When responding to constructive criticism, you want to be sure to understand where the person is coming from before you say anything.

You should always ask them to clarify something if you don’t fully understand what they’re saying.

When you receive constructive criticism, consider what is being said honestly and objectively.

Constructive criticism is all about improving.

Unless you accept it from this point of view, it will be difficult to change your behavior for the better.

The only thing you need to say when receiving constructive criticism is simply “Thank You.”

Responding appropriately to criticism shows your maturity and willingness to improve.

So swallow your pride, take it in the spirit in which it’s offered, and you’ll come out on top.

How often do you receive criticism?

How do you feel when you are criticized?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

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April 12, 2019March 12, 2018

A man does not know what he is saying until he knows what he is not saying. – Gilbert Chesterton

April 11, 2019March 12, 2018

How to Save Money During a Recession

Whether you want to admit it or not, there’s a global recession happening, and it’s affecting millions of families.

People are being laid off, companies are going under, and even some state governments are completely broke.

Finding ways to cut back on your spending can help you during this difficult economic period.

Saving money is always good, but it’s a skill that becomes especially important during a recession.

How can you save money during a recession?

It’s all about planning, cutting frivolous costs, and changing the way you spend money.

Here are some handy tips you can use to help you save money:

1. Pay important bills first. The mortgage, electricity, water and heat have to be paid no matter what.

2. Save Money on groceries. Groceries are a huge, yet necessary, expense. After the bills are paid, most of the budget will fall into the groceries category.

Buy generic rather than name brands. They usually taste just as good but cost less.

Buy non-perishable foods in bulk. Many items can be bought in bulk such as rice, canned foods, and frozen foods.

Never shop on an empty stomach. Eat before grocery shopping; otherwise, you’ll wind up buying more junk and convenience foods because you’re hungry.

Make a list of what you need and stick to it. It really is that simple!

Cut and use coupons. 10 for $10 deals and sale items are your friends.

Combining coupons with sales can slash your grocery bill even more.

Avoid shopping at expensive stores, even if they’re closer to home.

Instead, go a few miles out of the way for the discount grocery stores.

Most items in the store are exactly the same thing, other than the price tag.

3. Rent movies instead of going out. Have a movie night once a week.

Sit down with some popcorn (the kind you pop on the stove) and watch a movie.

This is a great way to spend quality family time, without much expense.

4. Put the credit card down. Credit purchases may get your “stuff” now, but you’ll pay double for it later.

If you want something, save up and pay cash or wait.

5. Cook at home. If you go out to eat two or three times a week, cut back to once every two weeks or once a month. Instead, learn to cook at home.

If you plan ahead and cook in quantities, you’ll save time and money by popping the extra portions into the freezer.

6. Unplug. If there are things in your house plugged into the wall and you aren’t using them, unplug them.

Many items, like computers and phone chargers, draw electricity whether they’re on or not.

Plug it in when you need it, then unplug it when you’re done.

7. Lower your thermostat. Set your thermostat at a specific temperature and leave it there. 68 to 70 is an energy-saving setting in the winter.

If you get chilly, put on a sweater or grab a blanket. You’ll save more than you realize on your heating bills.

These are just some of the many ways to save money and stretch your dollar a bit further during these challenging times.

These tips require a change to your habits, which can take some getting used to.

In time, however, you’ll adjust and the money you save can make a big difference in your budget.

It’s important to stick with your plan to save money.

Making a change for a week won’t do the trick.

Committing to changing bad habits for good will reap the greatest benefits in the long run.

What money saving strategies are you currently doing?

How does budgeting well help you live happier?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

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April 11, 2019March 12, 2018

The most pathetic person in the world is someone who has sight, but has no vision. – Helen Keller

April 10, 2019March 12, 2018

How to Weather the Storm of the Economic Collapse

As you may well know, we are currently in the worst economic situation since the Great Depression.

What exactly does this mean and how can you survive until the economy gets back on its feet?

The first thing to do is stay current on what’s happening with the economy.

You need to have a basic understanding of it all and keep up with the changes that are happening as well.

Without this information, you may make decisions that could be detrimental to your financial future.

It’s far too easy to panic and make rash decisions when the future is uncertain and frightening, so don’t dwell on the latest news, just keep yourself in the loop.

Here are a few things to remember that can help you survive the economic collapse:

1. Markets. If you own stock invested in a long-term investment, leave it there.

The markets will fluctuate up and down, and sometimes it will happen sharply.

But over time, the market will recover; it’s a normal ebb and flow.

If you’re concerned about your investments, ask a professional for their advice.

Don’t pull it too soon in a knee-jerk reaction from a steep drop.

This is the nature of the stock market and you should be prepared for this type of thing happening.

2. Diversify. Simply put, don’t place all your eggs in one basket.

If all your investments are in one place, spread them out.

Look into CD’s, money markets and bonds.

These types of investments are slow and steady and the principal is protected.

3. Spend Less. This is pretty straightforward, but it’s an important reminder.

If you went out to dinner 3 times a week before the economy dipped, try 2 times a month now.

Put simply: if you don’t need to spend money on something, don’t.

The money you save can help pay your bills.

In this economy, survival requires sacrifice.

You’ll have to cook at home more or maybe rent a movie instead of going to the theater.

It could be worse, so make due with what you have!

4. Spend Wisely. Where do you normally shop?

If you answer high priced specialty stores, you may need to change your habits.

Start heading to discount supermarkets and dollar stores.

Believe it or not, dollar stores sell cleaning supplies for $1, as opposed to four or five dollars for the same thing in another store.

Skip the Starbucks stop on your way to work and bring your morning coffee from home instead.

These times are tough. Unemployment is on the rise, jobs are harder to find, and businesses are closing down faster than ever before.

Still, this is not something to fear. These things happen. It’s all part of a cycle and the economy will bounce back.

In the meantime, get creative and find new ways to make some extra money and save on expenses:

Search through your garage, attic and basement for things you own that you don’t need anymore and sell them online.

Look into home based Internet businesses and ways to generate passive income.

Affiliate marketing is great for this.

There are places all over the Internet with these types of programs.

The worst thing you can do in this economy is ignore the fact that there’s a problem or think it won’t affect you.

Consider everything expense you have and devise ways you can get it for less.

You can make this recessionary economy work to your benefit by negotiating cheaper rates.

You may have to look a little harder for opportunities, but they’re still there.

Take the skills you have, along with your passion, and find ways to generate some passive income from them.

When you do these things, you’ll be able to weather the storm and come out ahead!

How have you prepared for the drastic changes in the economy?

How can you better prepare starting today?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

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April 10, 2019March 12, 2018

No question is so difficult to answer as that to which the answer is obvious. – George Bernard Shaw

April 9, 2019March 12, 2018

The most important thing about goals is having one. – Geoffrey F. Abert

April 9, 2019March 12, 2018

How to Work Smarter, Not Harder

Ever since computers have become such a large part of our lives, it seems that workloads have dramatically increased.

Now, instead of things getting easier, we’ve gotten busier and more hectic than ever before.

This may cause you to feel overburdened with your heavier workloads, especially when it comes to tasks you have to do repeatedly.

Finding better ways to accomplish your to-do list can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

How do you “work smarter, not harder?” Look at what you do on a daily basis and develop ways to get the same amount done with less effort and struggle.

Here are some ways you can work smarter, not harder:

1. Simplify repeated tasks. Forms and templates can save time on a lot of tasks.

For example, if you have to send out a lot of the same email, create a template email so you can just fill in the specific parts for each person individually.

2. Delegate. Delegate some of your responsibilities to other people.

If you have too much housework, give the kids some chores and set up a schedule.

Four people doing four things will get them done faster than one person doing all four things alone.

3. Automate.

If you’re in a position that requires the same thing done every day, at the same time, then try to find a way to get the process automated so it happens without you there.

An example would be to back up your computer every night, automatically.

4. Eliminate the useless. There are unproductive things you do on a daily basis.

In fact, you probably already know exactly what these distractions are!

Once you identify your time-wasters, remove them from your routine and focus on those tasks that are truly productive.

5. Focus. Stay focused on your responsibilities, not the responsibilities of others.

If everyone focuses on their primary responsibilities first, the large portion of the job gets finished and then minor details can be taken care of later.

6. Learn to say “no.”

Many people take on too much work because they’ve never learned to tell others “no.”

Before taking on extra duties for someone else, make sure you schedule time for your own needs first.

7. Know your limits.

Avoid taking on more than you can handle in order to please someone above you.

If you do this on a regular basis, you’ll ultimately be working twice as hard because you’re not performing at your very best.

Learn how much you can handle while still being productive.

We all have limits, and respecting our own limits leads to greater productivity.

Working smarter, not harder is all about planning, executing and knowing your limits.

Planning saves time and money.

It allows you to delegate and assign tasks to those most qualified to complete them.

Using systems and automation to execute tasks eliminates repetition and assures quality control.

Wisely considering limits prevents burnout and late work.

All in all, working smarter, not harder does just what it says.

Not only does it save you valuable time, but your production levels will soar as well!

How often do you stress yourself out because of work?

How can you make your work lighter yet still efficient?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!

April 8, 2019March 12, 2018

Archives

How to Live Your Life with Intense Purpose

How to Respond to Criticism

A man does not know what he is saying until he knows what he is not saying. – Gilbert Chesterton

How to Save Money During a Recession

The most pathetic person in the world is someone who has sight, but has no vision. – Helen Keller

How to Weather the Storm of the Economic Collapse

No question is so difficult to answer as that to which the answer is obvious. – George Bernard Shaw

The most important thing about goals is having one. – Geoffrey F. Abert

How to Work Smarter, Not Harder

Know how to listen and you will profit even from those who talk badly. – Plutarch