December Podcasts and Videos...GETTING CAUGHT UP!

 

Alright! It's time for me to get CAUGHT UP on the podcasts and videos that I have published so far this month...sorry for not getting the blog articles up with each of these but...it is what it is so this will be a quick recap for you in order to encourage you to check them out for yourself.

The Holiday Season (Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years) is a very joyous and festive time of the year...but not for everyone. There are many that go through high levels of stress during this Holiday Season that is brought on by several different factors.

I've tried to address some of these factors in this month's episodes and I hope that either you, yourself, will be blessed and encouraged by these OR that you will share with someone that could use this encouragement. 

*You can access all of the podcasts and/or videos by clicking on the appropriate links found at the bottom of this article.* 

I began talking about the very fact that many people struggle during this time of the year and then, in following episodes address some specific "Holiday STRESS Factors" as follows:

    - "Missing Loved Ones"... For many this time of the year is especially stressful and hard to get through due to them going through this season without loved ones. I know, for me, my oldest sister is going through this Holiday Season for the first time without her husband of nearly 50 years. My wife is going through her 3rd year without her Mother and her 2nd year without her Dad and it's still tough! I have found that it doesn't really matter how long that loved one has been gone, it's still tough! Watch and/or listen as I share some suggestions to help ease that difficulty.

    - "Dealing with 'Uncle Eddie'! (FAMILY)" - I jokingly refer to "Uncle Eddie" as THAT particular relative that's a little "odd" that you may try to avoid at family gatherings. However, many times, stress can come from a lot of DIFFERENT family members during this time of the year. I think I give some pretty good suggestions on how to best handle some of these situations that you may come across while being around family. What about YOU? What suggestions do YOU have that care to share...perhaps from your own experiences?

    - "Being BROKE at Christmas!" - I'm not sure that there are many more things as stressful for parents as "being broke" at Christmas and trying to figure out how to have Christmas for their kids.  Hey listen, I give some GREAT advice on how to "have Christmas" even when short on funds BUT I also close this one out with a very STRONG challenge to those listening: DETERMINE TO NEVER ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE IN THAT SITUATION AGAIN - EVER!!  The late, great Jim Rohn used to tell the story of a Girl Scout coming to his door to sell him some Girl Scout cookies for $2.00, which he didn't have! He talked about how embarrassed he was that he couldn't even give this little girl the $2.00 for a box of cookies and, due to this embarrassing situation, vowed that he would NEVER be in that situation again. And, he wasn't!

This led me to the start of my next set of episodes...DETERMINING that it is TIME to MAKE A CHANGE once in for all!

"You Can NOT Change!" - Wow, that's a pretty BOLD statement, isn't it? Well, you need to be sure to watch/listen to the content because, in the context provided, that statement is 100% TRUE!

You've heard it before: "For things to CHANGE, things must CHANGE!" Or, maybe you've heard it this way, "If Nothing CHANGES, NOTHING changes!" And finally, maybe this one: "If you wants THINGS TO CHANGE then, understand that THINGS MUST CHANGE!"

This is also when I began talking about my upcoming "Do-Be-Have MORE Challenge" that will be coming up soon. Be sure to listen in for that information! 

"What Will it Take" for you to finally get to the point that you are "sick and tired of being sick and tired"??

I'd love to get your feedback on that question and I'd really love to hear your feedback IF you have reached that point and began to make positive changes in your lie. What was it that brought you to that point that made you DECIDE - once and for all - that it was TIME to make a CHANGE? 

Be sure to listen in as I share a personal story regarding my health back in 2003 and what it was that made me finally reach that point.

Now you are all caught up! *Whew*

I hope that you will take the time to now go and watch/listen and, if you would, leave comments either on my YouTube channel or at my www.FutureYouUniversity.com page with the corresponding podcast and/or video.

In a recent blog post I asked if you were ready to MOVE FORWARD WITH ME. Well friend, that time is NOW...you coming?

Whatever you do, always be sure to make it an AWESOME day - who else is going to do it for you?

Take care -

Mike

Future You University   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

YouTube  Leaders Are Readers (Audible Books)

 

The Week Between Christmas and New Year's Day

Well, here we are.

As I type this article it is December 26th...the day after Christmas. To be honest, I absolutely dislike the day after Christmas. Why? Because, for weeks now, there has been Christmas music, Christmas commercials, Christmas specials, Christmas movies, Christmas decorations and then - overnight - it's all gone. Disappeared!

I think there is one local radio station that actually does still play Christmas music for a few more days which helps "ease in" to the transition to this post-Christmas time of the year. 

Now, just around the corner, we await the arrival of the start of another New Year!

This week between Christmas and New Year's Day is always a bit odd. If you have kids that are school age, they are still home for the holiday break but, if you work out of the home, you go back to work and it's "everything back to usual". 

It's just a strange time of transition. 

Are you still going to "feed your face" with all of the junk food this week in preparation for yet another "New Year's Resolution" about getting into better shape? Do you already have planned what it is that you are going to state as your "New Year's Resolution"?

If so, on either of these, WHY WAIT?

Today is another day and there is no real reason to wait for another week before making changes that may be needed in your life. 

But, at the same time, I get it. It's HARD to make that switch and transition that I've already discussed in this article. 

Here are a few suggestions  I have about this "odd week" in which we find ourselves:

   1. Relax and enjoy this special time of the year. Just because the calendar says that Christmas has now passed does not mean that you cannot still enjoy the holidays! Keep playing that Christmas music if you want and cherish this time with your children if they are still at home. Oh, I know, they can make you want to pull your hair out at times but listen, once they are out of the house you will miss these times. Believe me, I know this to be true.

   2. Ween yourself off of all of that candy and other junk food that you have enjoyed during all of the parties and other special occasions over the past several weeks. There is absolutely no need to wait until January 1st to do so. You really need to start working on the needed mindset NOW instead of waiting.

   3. If you have followed me at all over the past month or two then you know how I feel about these so-called "New Year's Resolutions". Bottom line, for the most part they are just a joke and something that most people never plan to really put much effort into achieving in the first place. So, DON'T WAIT for another week before you start working on the things in your life that you truly want to change and improve. Just like #2, you need to start NOW on the mindset that you will need to make these changes. 

   4. Go easy on yourself. Let me clarify for those of you that want to read this differently than what I intended...I did NOT say "Be lazy" with all of this. Perhaps I should have more correctly stated it as, "Be forgiving of yourself" along the way. You WILL fall short from time to time in this journey. But the most important thing is that you don't quit and that you keep moving forward!

   5. Make Future You University a part of your daily diet!

It doesn't really matter what the date is on a calendar. Today is another day and it's another day for you to LIVE TO THE FULLEST! It's another day in your life that, once passed, you will never be able to relive or get back. 

With that being said, whatever you do, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

YouTube   Live Debt Free!

Merry Christmas, Friends!

This will be my last blog article before Christmas so I wanted to take a few minutes to wish you a very Merry Christmas!

I hope that, in some way, that I have been a blessing in your life over the past year and that you are able to enjoy this Holiday Season with purpose in your life.

Would you like to give a gift to me in exchange? It's really very simple and I don't believe that it's too much to ask. Would you take a moment and stop by my FACEBOOK FAN PAGE and leave me a message?

I'd just love to hear that I am connecting with you in some way. Would you mind letting me know where you are from and how long you have been following me with Future You University?

This would mean a lot to me as I begin another year with my blog articles, podcasts and videos.

Thanks...I appreciate it more than you know.

And, finally, I want to wish you, your family and loved ones a very Merry Christmas! I hope and pray that you will feel the Peace that was the purpose of the "original gift", the greatest gift of all, the birth of Jesus.

Enjoy yourself and, until the next time, whatever you do, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

YouTube   Live Debt Free!

Christ, the Saviour is Born

I hope that you'll take the time to listen to today's podcast as I share the reading pf the REAL "Christmas Story". You can read along here if you'd like.

I would suggest that this is a great time to gather your family around, together, for this special reading of this world-changing and life-changing event.

Enjoy...

Luke 2...  And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.

  ² This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria.

  ³ So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.

  ⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,
  ⁵ to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
  ⁶ So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 
  ⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
  ⁸ Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.
  ⁹ And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 
  ¹⁰ Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 
  ¹¹ For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
  ¹² And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
  ¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

  ¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

 ¹⁵ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 

  ¹⁶ And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.

  ¹⁷ Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.

  ¹⁸ And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds.           ¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.

  ²⁰ Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

May you and your family have a wonderful and Merry Christmas!

And, as always, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

"Santa"

Hey, what would Christmas be without SANTA? 

Oh, I know there are some that try that. But, go with me on this - the pure JOY that comes from a child seeing Santa and thinking they may have even heard Santa as he came to deliver gifts during the night is simply magical!

I think back - with fond memories - of all of the different things that my wife and I used to do to give our boys that "special magical" feeling on Christmas Eve after they had gone to bed. 

There is even the report of one young child that had Santa as a part of one of his final wishes. You can read about it HERE.

Generally speaking, Santa is a symbol of joy, peace and love extended to all children - EVERYWHERE - regardless of race or location in the world.

I have always said that I believe in Santa. Yes, even as an adult. How? Why? Because I AM Santa! You know what I mean, right? I have always been Santa to my own children and I have also been Santa to others over the years. 

When I think and hear the word, "Santa", I can't help but think of the scene in "Elf" when Buddy declares that he KNOWS him! Yeah, here's an image from that moment...

Like some of the other words we have been discussing lately, the only "problem" is that Santa is "confined" to just a certain time of the year. Wow, wouldn't you agree that, often, we could use the magic of Santa all year long?

I'm sure you've figured it out by now. That's right, I'm going to encourage YOU to "be Santa" but to do it all year long!

I simply want to encourage you to be a person that spreads joy, peace and hope to those around you anywhere and everywhere you go. No, you don't have to dress up in a red and white suit. No, you don't have to grow out a white beard and, no, you don't even have to be a male....or an adult!

We ALL have that unique ability to bring some "special magic" to our world, the world around us. 

Here's the real kicker: We don't have to actually visit everyone in the whole world in order for our influence and "reach" to extend far greater (and into more of the world) than we could ever imagine. It's called "the ripple effect" or, you may want to look at it as the "pay it forward" mentality.

Don't allow the negativity around you to turn you into a Scrooge. Allow all of the positive information that you have added to your "mental library" to overcome that negativity and share what, indeed, the world needs now, more than ever - HOPE!

It can come in the form of encouragement to your children as well as your co-workers. A pat on the back, a positive word, a "vote of confidence" shown in your words and actions.

You, my friend, are a unique gift in and of itself. There is no other like you. Share "you" to those around you and make the world a better place.

Hey, the rewards will be far better than a plate of cookies and a glass of milk...you can count on that!

Until next time, Merry Christmas! And, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

"Rudolph"

Believe it or not, of all of the Christmas shows that come on during this time of the year, the "claymation" television production of "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" is one that, still, to this day, is one of my all-time favorites. That's right! If at all possible, I will still stop and try to watch the  whole thing.

Just in case you are someone that (because of where you live) may not be aware of the "story" of Rudolph, let me share the lyrics to the famous song:

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen,
you know Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen, But do you recall
The most famous reindeer of all

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Had a very shiny nose
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glows All of the other reindeer Used to laugh and call him names

 They never let poor Rudolph
Join in any reindeer games

Then one foggy Christmas Eve,
Santa came to say,
Rudolph with your nose so bright,
Won't you guide my sleigh tonight

Then how all the reindeer loved him,
As they shouted out with glee,
Rudolph the red-nose Reindeer
You'll go down in history

Rudolph, with his bright, red nose was able to light the way for Santa's sleigh and save Christmas! Horray! for Rudolph!

Now, really, does it take any guessing at all to already have figured out what the thought is going to be for today's blog article and podcast topic? (By the way, be sure to listen to the podcast by clicking one of the access links at the end of this article). 

Regardless of who you are or what your limitations may be - real or imagined - BE LIKE RUDOLPH! Step up, be the leader and LEAD those around you! Be the "beacon of light" and hope for those around you that may have given up hope.

No matter what others may say (or think) about you and/or your abilities - YOU step up and DO what you were made to do! The "snowman" that we talked about in the last article would likely melt under the pressure of such a situation but, not you! Not the "Rudolph" that is deep within!

Here's the real kicker: The last line of the song declares that Rudolph will "go down in history". The thing is, folks, YOU will go down in history one way or the other. You ARE "making" history every day that you live. It's the history of your life and it is being "recorded" each and every day that you live. What will YOUR history say about your life after you are gone?

You make your life count by making your days count, starting TODAY!

Your potential is unlimited. Your "circle of influence" is unlimited and goes way beyond your ability to comprehend it's reach. 

That's right. YOU.

Go get 'em, Rudolph!

And, until next time, always be sure to...

 

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

"Snowman"

A snowman is a great thing..as long as they stay cold, right?

They - the snowman - can't do anything about it and they have no control over it. They are prisoners of the weather and the temperature. And, on top of that, there has to be specific weather conditions before a snowman can even exist.

What about you? I'm talking about the "real" you. The "you" that is able to be a positive influence for yourself and those around you. The "you" that has a "don't quit" attitude and that refuses to give up or give in. Get the picture? Yeah, THAT "you".

Does that "you" only "come out" when all the conditions are just right? Does that "you" only stay strong and act as a person of positive influence only as long as things go your way? 

Another way to approach this is to ask the question in a way that you have likely heard before: "Are you a thermostat or a thermometer?" Are you like a thermostat in that YOU set the temperature/environment settings or are you more like a thermometer and simply reflect and react to the temperature/environment?

So, hey, DON'T BE A SNOWMAN! Sure, they're fun but they aren't around for long. And, have you also noticed that, after a while, they actually begin to start looking dirty and ugly?

Be the thermostat and stay strong, my friend. and, until next time...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

"Scrooge"

The word, "Scrooge", is in reference to Ebenezer Scrooge, the focal character in the story A Christmas Carol (1843) by Charles Dickens. In the story, he is a "penny-pincher" and a miserable old man that detests the joy that those around him enjoy around Christmas time. 

The word, "scrooge", is used to describe those who are negative, stingy and miserable. In case you can't figure it out, it's not a compliment to be called a "scrooge". 

Life can be tough at times and, if one allows the negativity to overcome them, even the happiest and most joyful person can become a "scrooge".

Hey listen, for many, this time of the year isn't very enjoyable for them because they are going through it alone and they  miss a loved one that used to be around them during this time in the past. Others may struggle with what they DON'T have - especially if they have children at home - and they worry about how they will actually even have a Christmas for their children.

We could go on and on, couldn't we? Sure we could! There is ALWAYS plenty of negativity in the world around us. Always. 

I simply want to encourage you to not allow yourself to allow your heart to become "cold" and closed off to the love and joy that surrounds us each and every day. In the midst of all the things that may be wrong, do not forget that love and joy also abounds. It may be hard to find at times and it may require you to search for it  - especially if you are undergoing a struggle at the time.

But it's there. Allow your heart to remain open and absorb that love and joy. BE that love and joy to and for those around you!

Why?

Because YOU need it and WE (those around you) need you to continue to share the love and joy that you have within.

And, while I"m at it, "Merry Christmas!"

Until next time, whatever you do, please be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

"Misteltoe"

I'm assuming that, as you read this, you are aware and familiar with the tradition that goes along with the mistletoe plant. If not, here's a very quick synopsis: The folklore is that if you stand under a piece of mistletoe with someone, then the two must kiss. There is mistletoe that is hung where two can either purposely stand underneath or even do so accidentally.  Some people may also carry a piece of mistletoe with them and hold it over the head of someone that they would like to kiss. 

And, for whatever reason it seems to be  a part of Christmas traditions, at least in the United States. 

Now, like I state in the podcast, I'm not suggesting that you become a "kissing bandit" with what I'm about to say. Got it? 😏

Here is what I AM saying. Being reminded by the thought of mistletoe and the tradition that surrounds it, DO NOT wait until "special occasions" to tell those that you love, that you do. Don't wait for some "special occasion" to let someone know that you care.

Friend, time goes by quickly and, every day, there are those that regret the fact that they waited...and waited...and waited and then they waited too late. Many stand by the graves of those that they had planned to tell them how much they were loved. But, for whatever reason, they waited too long. 

So, that's it in a nutshell. Short and to the point.

Open up your heart - and your mouth - and share your love with those around you.

You'll be glad you did. (And so will they). 

Join me next time and, until then, whatever you do...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

Mon_12th_"Evergreen"

evergreen - a plant having foliage that persists and remains green throughout the year

The picture above is actually from my back yard. It's kind of interesting in that, it's not a holly "bush" but, more of a tree! I've never seen that before I moved to where I live now. I see a lot of these "holly TREES". Regardless, the main thing is that it is a picture of an "evergreen" plant.

Why am I talking about the word, "evergreen", for my blog and podcast topic? Good question.

I thought for the next few days leading up to Christmas I'd share thoughts based on a word that is often "connected" to this time of year. So, NOW when you see the word that is the topic for the day, you'll already have an idea of WHY that word is an actual TOPIC for discussion! 😁

So, why "evergreen"? Look again at the definition that I have right under the picture. An evergreen plant "remains green throughout the year". Even like now, when it's too cold for other "foliage" to remain green. All of the other plants and bushes have "lost" their foliage. It died. It fell off and is blowing around in someones yard. Sure, it will come back in the Spring but, for now, it's dead and gone. 

The evergreen plant "stands out" among all of the other dead trees and bushes that are around them. 

So, do you know where I'm "going with this" yet?

As corny as it sounds, I want to encourage YOU to be "evergreen". 

Yep. 

When everyone else has "withered and died" and the world around you looks dead, cold and stagnant, I want to encourage YOU to be the one that "stands out" and offers hope to  your life as well as to those around you. 

You see, when it comes to plants, it doesn't matter how much you water them or "take care of them". If they are outside in the elements, unless they are of the evergreen variety, they WILL lose their foliage and look dead. Even though a plant may not be evergreen, it CAN be kept "alive" by bringing it in and taking care of it indoors. Even then, it's hard work to help that plant survive.

So, here you go. I'm not going to discuss this a lot in this article. I want YOU to explore and discover for yourself what this means for you. But, you may be one of those people that, by your nature, you are "evergreen". You constantly offer hope and "life" in a cold, bleak and "dead" world. That just may be who you are. 

But, even if that doesn't describe you, I want to encourage you to PROTECT YOURSELF from the "elements" (the negativity that surrounds us everyday) and to WORK at "staying alive" (why did I just thin of the Bee Gees when I typed that?) even though most of the others around you have not. 

Now, run with that and have some fun with it!

Until next time, whatever you do, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

The Gift of PEACE

I'm not sure that there is any greater gift that a person can give - either to themselves or others - than the gift of PEACE.

What does that mean for you and how do you go about accomplishing this in your life and in the lives of those around you?

I am convinced that one of the best ways (if not THE best way) to give yourself the gift of peace is to IMPROVE YOUR POSITIVE MINDSET. That's right...get rid of the negativity and the worry (as much as possible) and replace it with positivity and confidence. 

No, I'm not suggesting that you will be able to rid your life of EVERY single worry but I AM saying that increasing the positive influence in your life will help greatly diminish worry and it's "power" over your life. 

When you increase this level of positive influence in your life then, by it's very nature, you also spread that to those around you. Instead of worrying about jobs, being out of work or the politics that go on at the workplace, you are able to develop a sense of calm - and peace - by understanding that YOU actually have a lot more power over these things than you may have first thought. These things don't mean that it's "the end of the world". You begin to understand and apply the idea that "As long as there is breath, there is hope!". 

When YOU are calm and peaceful it becomes contagious. Those around you (family, friends) begin to "absorb" the "calm energy" that you exude and it helps bring a sense of peace to these other people around you. 

Another of the great ways to bring peace into your life and FOR your life is to do so financially. 

Money - or the lack of it - is one of the greatest stress generators in our lives today. It is responsible for more relationship problems than anything else. (Let me just throw in here before I move on...increasing your positive influence like we've been discussing can also help greatly in THIS area!). 

I mentioned in the podcast that goes along with today's article two sources to help guide you in this area. I suggested that you check out Dani Johnson and what she offers in this area by going to DaniJohnson.com . I also suggest that you check out Dave Ramsey at DaveRamsey.com . 

And, finally, by improving your positive mindset you have the ability to bring peace to yourself and your family (as well as friends and co-workers) by just becoming a better - more positive - person overall. Think about that. When ANYONE becomes less negative and more positive, THINGS ALWAYS IMPROVE!

Yeah, you know that's true!

Examine this for yourself. Get out a piece of paper and brainstorm this in the different areas of your life where you feel that peace is absent. What can YOU do to change that? 

And, friend, may you enjoy the "Gift of Peace" during this special time of the year.

Until next year, whatever you do, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

The Joy of GIVING

I remember well the time that my Mom tried to convince me that it was "more blessed to give than to receive". I don't remember my age but, based on where we were living it was sometime from 2nd grade or earlier and, at that stage in my life, I wasn't buying that idea. Not even close!

Now, obviously, as I have gotten older and have had children of my own, I absolutely DO understand and agree with that sentiment. I DO understand and believe that there is JOY in giving!

I'm not trying to brag when I say this (and, likely, many of you are the same way) but, I'd much rather GIVE someone a gift that really puts a smile on their face than RECEIVE a gift. Anytime. 

Here's the thing, friend. You don't have to go out and BUY someone a gift in order to GIVE and to receive JOY by doing so! Don't let the idea of "but I don't have any money" hold you back. Giving is not about money or what you can buy in a store. GIVING, at it's best and purest form, is about you sharing what you have the ability to share because you know it will help someone and/or make that person happy. 

It could be something as simple as time. Spending time with someone and just visiting and sharing the gift of YOU listening and enjoying the relationship that you have with that person. By the way, you don't even have to know the person for this to take place. I can promise you this - there are a LOT of people in your local nursing home that would love for someone - ANYONE - to just spend some time with them to brighten up their day. And, friend, that "someone" can be you. 

It could be a short, handwritten note that simply expresses appreciation or encouragement to someone. 

If you are continuously adding to your "positive mindset" then you have a LOT that can be shared. No, I'm not suggesting that you "preach" these thoughts and ideas to those around you and try to tell them that this is what THEY should be doing. But, rather, simply sharing your positive mindset as a way to uplift and encourage would be a gift worth sharing. 

What is it for you? What opportunity comes your way (maybe on a daily basis) to share and GIVE to those around you?

Think about it. And, try to get in the habit of doing so at other times besides this "special" time of the year. Make it a daily habit and see what happens to and for your life!

I am thankful that I have the opportunity to share this blog and podcast with you. I hope that it is a source of encouragement for you and to you and that it helps you in your daily activities. 

And, finally, never forget that YOU are a gift worth sharing. Think about it and share your talents and abilities with those around you and discover, as well, that there IS joy in giving!

Until next time friend, whatever you do, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

Rejoice!

I'm done with my series that was inspired by a poster full of really good phrases. If you didn't catch that, just go back for several articles (it starts HERE) and read through the last one.You will also find the website where you can even order that poster, if you'd like. No, I get nothing from that - just sharing something good with you. 

I really don't have a new "series" in mind at this point but, perhaps due to this being the "Holiday Season", I wanted to share THIS word with you for today's article...REJOICE!

Even if you find this and read it during the summer, it doesn't matter - the word applies each and every day.

I actually went ahead and looked up the definition of the word and thought I'd share it with you here:

verb (used without object), rejoiced, rejoicing.

   1. to be glad; take delight (often followed by in): to rejoice in another's happiness.

verb (used with object), rejoiced, rejoicing.

   2. to make joyful; gladden: a song to rejoice the heart.

So, to put it in other terms, the word "rejoice" means to be HAPPY and to MAKE HAPPY!

I don't know about you but, I like that. 

It's kind of like everything that I talk about here through Future You University. Apply these things to your life but don't keep them to yourself - SHARE THEM! 

Go back and read the last article on "Be AWESOME" and you'll see what I mean. I encourage you to not forget to BE awesome but to also share that encouragement with those around you. Let THEM know that they are, indeed, AWESOME,  just because of who they are. 

So it is with the idea of rejoicing or "being happy". YES, rejoice! YES, be happy! But, at the same time, be sure to share that with those around you so that they, too, can find what is needed to rejoice and be happy. 

Again, don't focus on what you don't have or on what is not "right" in your world. Instead, put your focus on what you DO have and on what is RIGHT in your world.

And then, REJOICE! 

As you think about that and incorporate that into your own life, also be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Future You University   FYU on Facebook!   Podcast on iTunes   Podcast RSS feed

My Christmas Wish For You

Whether you live in the United States and celebrate Christmas or not, I have a special message for you. Even if you live in the United States and don't celebrate Christmas, this message is still for you.

 

Yes, this is a special time of the year when most people tend to be more thoughtful and helpful. They also seem to think about the blessings of their lives and they find ways to express that thanks. Time is often spent with friends and family with laughter and smiles as they spend this special time together.

 

Again, no matter where you live or what your situation, I have a special message - my Christmas wish for you - today.

 

On this day, I wish for you and your family the following:

 

JOY -May you find true happiness and joy in your life. May you not forget to notice and enjoy the "everyday" people in your life that bring you joy and happiness. Don't forget to notice the "little things" that surround you each and every day and then share that joy with those around you. By doing so, you will see joy and happiness returned to you.
 

PEACE - May you experience true peace in your life in the coming days and year. As you purposely set out to increase the joy and happiness in your life, may you also discover the peace that will accompany these. May you learn to worry less and enjoy peace more. May you find relationships renewed, strengthened and regained so that you will experience more peace - and less stress - in your life.

LOVE - As with peace, may you experience the joy and peace of love in your life. Too many take for granted those that surround them every day and, in so doing, they miss out on the benefits of love that is right before them every single day. Don't be afraid to forgive and to allow healing to take place in any relationship where this is needed. May you open your life up to allowing yourself to take the risk of love so that you may enjoy the benefits of love.

 

HOPE - "As long as there is breath, there is hope." May you never, ever lose hope, friend. My wish for you is that you never give up on your dreams and that you always reach for "more" in order to better yourself along the way. Never allow yourself to believe that things cannot improve in your life and for your life. Never lose sight of this as you open your life up to more joy, peace and love. Live hope daily.

 

This is my Christmas wish for each of you. Think of how our world can change by each one of us making the above list a part of our daily routine. Embrace it, apply it and share it with everyone around you and watch what happens.

 

It begins here with you and with me.

 

Until next time...

 

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

 

Mike

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A Great Way to Bless Someone's Life

As I type this, it is the 21st of December. That means that Christmas is "right around the corner" and it also means that there are many people around you (whether you realize it or not) that will struggle to provide any kind of Christmas for their children again this year.

 

This doesn't have to be about Christmas, however. It is a GREAT way to bless the lives of other people ANY time of the year. Keep that in mind and plan to incorporate this all through the year...I think it can become highly addictive!

 

But, for now, I want to focus on the few days that are left before Christmas and challenge and encourage you to JUMP ON BOARD and make some magic happen! I know I'm right when I say that many of us wish there were more ways to help others...well, here ya' go!

 

Take a $10 bill and PAY IT FORWARD!

 

Sure, by itself, that $10 bill may not be able to do a whole lot but, at the same time, in the hands of a person that is really struggling, it may do far more than you can imagine.

 

But, what IF you can easily multiply that $10 bill into an amount that is far beyond what you may imagine? Here are some simple ideas that I will share with you but I want to challenge you to brainstorm even more and come up with MORE ideas to make this EXTRAordinary!

 

1. FAMILY: Get each member of your immediate family to add $10 each and then find a family that would be blessed by this contribution. With all of these ideas, find such a family and bless their life.

 

2. FRIENDS: What if you could call 10 other friends and have them contribute $10 each? You can do this easy math, right? That little $10 bill turns into $100 very quickly. Do the math and find out what would happen if you got 20 friends involved...30 friends? Do you think this might make a difference in the life of someone? You might even consider helping more than one person or family, depending on how many people you get involved.

 

3. GROUPS or ORGANIZATIONS: Do you belong to a group or organization? Do you attend a Bible class at your church? How about a civic organization? What about your workplace? The list is endless and I want to encourage you to STEP UP, have fun, get excited about this idea and see what can happen!

 

Here's a couple of more ideas to make this fun:

 - Deliver this money yourself and see the joy and happiness on the face of the one(s) that you bless.

 - Send someone else to deliver this gift and remain anonymous.

 

MAIN POINT: Have fun with this and know that you can QUICKLY make a huge impact on the life of an individual or a family.

 

I just wanted to get this out there and share it with you as quickly as I could and, yes, I've done this myself.

 

GET YOUR FAMILY - ESPECIALLY YOUR CHILDREN - INVOLVED IN THIS and teach some valuable lessons on what it is to share and bless others.

 

Until next time, whatever you do...

 

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is goin to do it for you?)"

 

Mike

2014: All But Done

 

As hard as it is to believe, 2014 is all but done. Over. Complete. Finished. Gone, baby, gone!

I know I'm not the only one that has a hard time believing this to be true, right? As is often said, "Where has the time gone?"

Now, don't miss this point - the year isn't over YET...it's just getting really close!

What does that mean for you?

Let's get real here: If you set out to lose 50 lbs. over the year and you've lost 25, you DO realize, don't you, that you're not going to lose 25 more lbs. over the course of this month. But, that doesn't mean that you just give up since you're not going to reach that initial goal.

As you look over the past year, don't forget to pay attention to what you HAVE accomplished over the past year. Do NOT focus only on where you fell short. That is a HUGE mistake to make.

Pay close attention to the three previous articles and, especially to the quotes that you find in each of them. Notice that none of them say "quit" or "give up". They all emphasize the need to "stay the course" no matter how slowly you have progressed.

I'm not done with December yet...neither or you!

Enjoy this time of the year and all that it brings and, until next time, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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