Some ENCOURAGMENT for You!

 

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Mike's Quotes #5

Sometimes, parts of life really stinks! That's when it's necessary to work hard to find the parts of your life that "smell better" than the stink!

This would be one of those quotes that I did just to have a little fun while, at the same time, still sharing a very important point. And, though I don't know exactly when I made that quote or what was going on in my life at the time, chances are I was experiencing some difficulties in my life that would cause me to think that, indeed, sometimes "parts of life really stinks!".

Hey, let's be honest here, I don't believe that there is one individual on this planet today (or even anytime in the past) that, at some time, hasn't experienced those days, weeks, months or maybe even longer, that just seemed to "stink".  THAT IS A PART OF LIFE AND LIVING!

But, you know what? Even when you experience one of those periods of time in your life, it is important to take a good, close look at the things in your life that "smell better than the stink".

It is true that, when we struggle in some areas of our life, ALL of our life seems to be a mess. But friend, that simply is NOT the case! 

Depression has a way of making EVERYTHING look as if it could not get any worse.  Depression has a way of putting everything on the same level in your life which, during depression, is all negative.

That is why is so important to continually feed your mind (and your soul) good, powerful and positive information, DAILY.  It's also important, if at all possible, to find someone of the same mindset (positive, NOT negative) that will help you as you help them keep these things in mind.

NOTICE: I am not saying that, by doing so, you will never struggle with bad times and even depression. I'm simply saying that it will definitely help you and, yes, possibly even prevent you from getting into a depression.

You've heard the phrase, "You have to stop and smell the roses", right? That's what I'm talking about in today's quote. You must continually (daily) FOCUS on what is good and what is right in your life. You must acknowledge on a DAILY basis what it is in your life for which you have to be thankful.

Again, depression seems to block your ability to do so. Whatever you do, do NOT go through depression alone. Yes, not many people will understand or even believe that you can't find anything good for which to be thankful. But, there will be someone out there that may have even gone through it themselves and understand.

I didn't mean for this to turn into a discussion about depression but I understand that it is REAL and I want to address that part of the "life stinks" scenario.

By no means is this an exhaustive list but, at the same time, here are a few things to pay attention to and to actually do when "parts of life begin to stink":
     1. Begin the habit NOW, before you find yourself in that situation, of putting positive information into your mind and soul on a DAILY basis. If you are already "down", do it anyway!
     2. Do NOT spend time around people that will help you focus on what is WRONG in your life. Yes, it is true that "misery loves company" but friend, you MUST break away from that if you wish to survive.
     3. Just like #1, begin the habit NOW of giving thanks DAILY for the things in your life that are good. (Hey, if you have a roof over your head, you are far better off than many in our world and even in our own country).
    4. Begin NOW noticing the things that tend to put you down that negative path. Pay attention to yourself and how you "feel" and how you "react" to things in your life. Either make a mental note or actually make an actual note of these things and then TAKE ACTION based on what you have discovered. For me, I know that there are a few things that are absolute "MUST HAVES" in my daily activity in order for me to remain positive.
          a. I MUST be involved in daily, positive activity. That's one reason I have gotten back on track of doing a daily blog, podcast and video.
          b. I MUST have purposeful, daily activity in my life that often does NOT include the items listed in point "a".
          c. I MUST physically "get out of the house". This is a big one for me. Since I do a lot of work from home it is easy for me to find myself having gone through two or three days with out ever getting out of the house. BIG MISTAKE for me! Even if it's just a walk around the block or even sitting in the back yard with my dog, I MUST make sure that I get out of the house and it's even better if I make sure that I do this on a daily basis.

What does/will YOUR list look like? Friend, it is of major importance that you make this list for yourself so, do NOT put this off and plan to do it later!!

Bottom line: Yes, there will be times in your life when life "stinks". But, even if it REALLY stinks you STILL have the ability - and choice - to find and be thankful for all of the good things that are in your life.

Feel free to connect with me through my Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/FutureYouUniversity  - if you would like to discuss this further. If not me, find SOMEONE.

Thanks for joining me again today and, until next time, whatever you do, always be sure to...

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

Mike

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The End of Another Year...NOW WHAT?

Wow! It has now been over a year since my last blog...OUCH! I knew it had been a long time but didn't realize it had been THAT long!

So, to recap on that, when I wrote my last article on Christmas Day of 2016, we were getting ready to head into the year 2017. And, now, as I put this article together, we are just a few days away from 2018! If THAT doesn't point out the "passing of time", I'm not sure what does.

ANYWAY, on to this particular article that I want to leave with you today. Let me say that I DID do a podcast on this topic a few weeks ago (December 8th - click the podcast link at the end of this article) and I even did a Facebook live stream on it with a little extra a week or so ago. Be sure to check that out as well if you haven't done so. (You can also find the link to that Facebook page at the end of this article).

Bottom line is this: We've come to the end of another year - NOW WHAT?

You may be one of those people that have accomplished great things this year and feel that you "stayed on track" most - if not all - of the year. AWESOME and CONGRATULATIONS! Maybe you are one that would not necessarily label it as accomplishing "great things" but, at the same time, you have had some good things happen this year that puts a smile on your face. Or maybe you are one that feels that you have fallen far short of where you wanted to be at this point in time.

I guess I would put myself in the last two categories in that I have fallen far short of where I wanted to be at this point in time but there have still been some good things happen during this past year that definitely puts a smile on my face. What about you?

If you fit into category #1,  I would love for you to share your thoughts and simply tells us how you were able to stay focused and accomplish those things this year. Share and inspire!

But, for those that (maybe once again) have "fallen short" the questions comes, "Now what?" Do you (we) just give up? Do we just plod along the same old path and keep getting the same old results?

Here are a few thoughts and suggestions that may help you as you look back over this year...

 1. Don't beat yourself up!
    Listen, there are more than enough people out there that can do that for you, right? You don't need to beat yourself up and continue the negative impact of negative thoughts. "Beating yourself up" accomplishes NOTHING except to increase the power of the negativity that will hold you back for another year. 

2. Try to pinpoint where you got off track (even if before this year) 

   You will likely be able to "pin point" when it was that you got "off track". Yes, it may even go back before this past year - it does for me! But be determined in this part of the process. For most people, there is SOMETHING that took place that knocked you off course and I encourage you to keep digging until you find it. (Honestly, most people know right away what that is but they want to ignore it because it makes them look bad or "feel" bad.)
    These things or this particular thing that knocked you off track or off course will likely fall into one of two categories:
     a. Things that were out of your control (couldn't change/can't change)

         Hey listen, there are things that happen that we have no control over at all that greatly impact our lives. It could be the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, a health issue or health issues due to an accident, etc. There are but just a few examples of things that can cause our life to come to a "screeching halt" and make it very difficult to get back on track and moving back in the direction we were headed before that even took place.

    b. Things that WERE in your control and still are (could change/can change)

        This one may hurt a little bit because it takes us admitting that it was OUR own fault that caused this even to take place. It requires you to be brutally honest with yourself and it also requires you to be willing to admit your mistake(s) in this process. 

       I'm being honest in sharing this with you - THIS ONE describes me and my situation. Sure, there are some things that I can point to that definitely affected my mindset and attitude but it was still up to me and in my control what I did in response to those events. Know what I mean? For me, it goes back before this past year. I'm not anywhere near where I wanted to be at this point in time but I can either just give up or I can be determined to get back on track and keep moving forward. And, that brings us to point #3.

3. What Now? 

    In either situation it is imperative that we ask ourselves that important question, "What now?" Put all of the "reasons" or "excuses" to the side and realize that there is a decision that must be made. Do you want to stay where you are or do you want to MOVE FORWARD? 

    First, it's going to require you to GET OUT OF THAT "FUNK"! I am not making light of this - it may even be a depression that has set you back but you must still find a way out of that depression even if it means getting professional help to help you do so.
    Get that passion back! Did you lose your passion? You MUST get it back! I have to admit that, for me, I had lost my passion over the past 2 or 3 years and I know that I must do what is necessary for me to get it back. 

     If this describes you as well then what we must do (you and I) is to look back at when we WERE passionate and honestly determine what is different between then and now. For me I know I must get back to completely immersing myself with positive information via articles, podcasts and other recordings. No one else can do it for me..no one! So again, I have to make a decision and either settle for where I am (and it's not where I want to be) and whine and complain about how I wish things were different OR I can decide that I must do whatever is necessary for me to get that passion back and MOVE FORWARD with a positive mindset.

IT IS UP TO YOU! No one else can do it for you.

*Note on above graphic: There is no ".com" at the end of the FB address*

ASSIGNMENT! I would like to ask EACH ONE OF YOU to take a moment and go to the FB page and share just ONE good thing that happened to you during this past year! Let's not focus on what DIDN'T happen but one something good that DID happen. It won't take but a minute...please do that on the facebook page .

Until next time (and hopefully before another year has passed!)...

"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

Buried or Planted?

A few weeks back, I posted this graphic on the Future You University fan page on Facebook and even stated that I thought I had found my next podcast topic. Well, I've done the podcast (see the links below for iTunes and the RSS feed) and now I'm doing the blog along the same topic.

Can you relate to what is stated in the graphic? I SURE CAN!

There have been those times in my life where it seemed that the only light at the end of the tunnel was an oncoming train! I can actually remember telling my wife once, years ago, that I had lost all hope. Thankfully, she reminded me that, without hope, what was there? (By the way, that's one of the reasons I came up with the phrase, "As long as there is breath, there is hope!").

You may feel that you are "buried" underneath so much "stuff" that you'll never be able to dig yourself out. It could be debt or any other results of poor choices and bad decisions. But, friend, pay attention to what is stated in that graphic...instead of "buried" you may be in a situation where you are actually "planted"!

Interestingly, you can't be planted WITHOUT being buried first. Don't let that discourage you...read on.

 Right now, as I type this article, it is Spring time in Arkansas. Trees have put on their leaves (for the most part), things are budding and blooming all over the place. Many have been planting their gardens and getting ready for the harvest of fresh vegetables or just to enjoy the beauty of certain varieties of flowers that they enjoy.

Let me ask you, "How do you PLANT a seed?". Do you just place it on top of the soil? Of course not! You BURY it in the soil. You dig a hole and place the seed down into that hole and then you cover that seed up with the soil! Proper planting requires that seed to be buried.

Have you ever watched a seed come up out of the soil? I remember doing the "plant a seed in a cup and watch it grow" thing when I was in elementary school. I, and my classmates, were amazed at how that seed was able to push UP through the soil to find daylight. As a matter of fact, our teacher even placed a cup on it's side to show us that the plant would STILL find it's way UP to the daylight.

That soil is much heavier than that little seedling, but the seedling pushes through anyway! The little seedling pushes up and through REGARDLESS of the fact that it has been planted.

Read this and remember this fact: "THERE IS PROMISE IN THE PLANTING!"

 So, listen, even if you feel you are buried, understand that being buried is part of the process of being planted. But know this - YOU will determine if you "push through" or not!

Some may just give up and not even try. Doing so pretty much guarantees that you will NOT reach "daylight" and fulfill your purpose. But, if you have HOPE and if you have FAITH and BELIEVE that, even though you cannot see it at the time, God has a special purpose for you and what you are going through at the time, then you WILL push up and through what it is that is holding you down for the moment.

YOU WILL!

It's up to you. So, the question to you, now, is: WHAT WILL YOU DO? 

I encourage you to push up with everything that you have until you reach "daylight" and that, even then, you continue to grow and flourish. The world NEEDS you to do so! And I'm here to tell you, you can do just that.

It all starts right here, right now....TODAY. Always remember that YOU decide the direction of your day and, one way to do so, is to 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

Farewell, Funny Man (Tribute to Robin Williams)

Like many, I could not believe the news yesterday when I heard that Robin Williams had been found dead from an apparent suicide.

 

I began to think back to when I first saw him on the television show, "Happy Days" as Mork, the alien, which then turned out to be a show of it's own, "Mork and Mindy". One of the things I loved about that show was the fact that, before it finished it's run on the air, they brought on the late, Jonathan Winters, to be on the show as well. He, like Robin, was one of the funniest people I had ever seen on television and I ALWAYS laughed at his antics.

 

Another memory I have of Robin Williams is an appearance on "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson". When Robin was introduced he didn't sit down for, probably close to five minutes. Why? Because he was running all over the place...up in the audience, grabbing people up and doing something silly with them and then down to the main floor and grabbing a camera while he was in front of it and doing silly stuff the whole time. My wife and were laughing so hard we were literally crying. Johnny Carson had a stunned look on his face but, at the same time, was laughing as well.

 

HOW DOES SUCH A FUNNY PERSON BECOME DEPRESSED AND LONELY TO THE POINT OF SUICIDE?

 

Answer: It happens more than we know.

 

From what I understand, fame is not all that it's cracked up to be. Many wish for fame and then wish they didn't have it once it arrives. Many wish for privacy once fame arrives and, because they ARE famous, privacy is something hard to come by.

 

Are your friends really friends? Are they there because they like YOU or YOUR MONEY and YOUR FAME? If you lost it all, would they still be around? Sadly, many a famous person has found themselves alone once the fame was gone.

 

Hey, comedians are SUPPOSED to be funny, right? And, they're supposed to be funny ALL OF THE TIME! It's expected!

 

How hard that must be.

 

Friend, don't assume anything about anyone at any time.

 

Don't assume that someone "CAN'T" have problems because "of who they are". EVERYONE has struggles and feelings - regardless of their "position" in life. We all do. We all hurt. We all cry. We all seek "connection", love and acceptance.

 

And friend, if YOU are one that finds themselves on the side of being lonely - even when surrounded by people - please talk to someone! Find someone that will listen, even if it's calling a national hotline. You are valuable! You are important! And, friend, YOU ARE NEEDED IN THIS WORLD!

 

"As long as there is breath, there is hope!"

 

I posted a picture featuring this hotline number on the FYU page on Facebook (link found below), but I wanted to post the number here as well for those that may need it.

 (EVERYONE, share this information TODAY! You NEVER know who may see this that NEEDS to see this very thing!!!)

 

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE:

1-800-273-8255

Your call is free and confidential, and will be answered by a trained counselor

at a local crisis center.

 



I want to close with the following words from a song by "Smokey Robinson and the Miracles" that was released in the United States on September 24, 1970. The song: "Tears of a Clown"

Now there's some sad things known to man
But ain't too much sadder than the tears of a clown
When there's no one around

Thanks for taking the time to read and to share. I invite you to also be sure to listen to, and share, the podcast via the link(s) below.

Until next time, friend, be sure to...

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

Mike

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

  *MJ Spillman Travel on Facebook*    *TRAVEL FOR LESS and ENJOY LIFE MORE!*

What Are YOU Creating?

 

How do you feel?

 

Really, how do you feel? Do you feel stressed out all of the time? Are you uptight? Anxious?

 

Is there a feeling of frustration and/or fear prevalent in your life? Are you overwhelmed with the feeling that our world is doomed for destruction?

 

Do you feel peaceful? Relaxed? Do you rest easily and do you rest well?

 

Now then, are you ready?

WHAT TYPE OF THINGS DO YOU POST ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA?

 

Are you one that constantly posts or reposts "news" reports of horrible things that happen all around the world? Are you one that constantly posts or reposts videos or articles that lambaste "the other side" from your political viewpoint?

 

Are you one that posts/reposts good, happy, thoughtful graphics and/or videos? Are you one that posts/reposts thoughts and phrases that will encourage and uplift those that read what you post?

 

What are YOU creating?

 

That's right...either way, YOU are "creating" the feelings, emotions and reactions in your life!

 

"What you sow, you will reap" or "You reap what you sow" fits this perfectly and so does "the Law of Attraction".

 

What is referred to as "the Law of Attraction" shares the exact same principle as "sowing and reaping" in that it states the following: That which you send out is what will come back to you. If you send out negativity then, guess what? Negativity will come back to you and fill your life. If you send out positivity then yup, you got it, you life will receive and be filled with that which is positive.

 

This was talked about quite a bit at the training that I attended with Dani Johnson (www.DaniJohnson.com) last weekend. I didn't do a blog or podcast while I was gone and I really wanted to put some thought into what my first article would be once I got back on track.

 

The answer basically "slapped me in the face" when I opened up my Facebook yesterday and noticed - it just jumped out at me - how many "negative" posts filled my page. WOW!

 

Hey, let me be the first to admit that I've joined in on some of this in the past. I've really tried to curtail that and control my participation in that type of activity lately and I think I've done fairly well.

 

THINK ABOUT THIS: Not only does it send a negative feeling/emotion to those that read it/watch it/absorb it but it also puts that same negativity into your own mind and soul.

 

Is that what you really want for you life and is it really what you want to dump on someone else?

 

We can try to justify it all we want but, friend, let's get real - NO ONE NEEDS THAT!

 

All that you have is TODAY ("As long as there is breath, there is hope!").  Why not use today and all of the avenues you have to reach out and touch the lives of others for GOOD? Why not share as much POSITIVE information and as many POSITIVE words to those that you may touch instead of negative sludge?

I've dedicated myself to getting rid of this in my own life. Will you join me? Will YOU determine to stop poisoning YOUR life as well as the life of those with which you come into contact?

What you SOW is what you will REAP and what you SEND OUT is what will COME BACK to you.

I hope that you will share this with as many people as you can and that you'll also listen to the podcast (link below) and also share it with as many as you can.

I also hope that you'll take the time to go to my Future You University page on FB (link below) and leave a comment about this there.

It's time for a change, wouldn't you agree? Then let's start NOW, TODAY.

And as you do so, be sure to...

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

Mike

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

                                         Start your home based business HERE

Created Victorious!

This really brings the week's focus to a good ending to tie up all that we've discussed.

I would suggest that, if you are one that has struggled with the things we have discussed this week, you actually print this off and post it somewhere that you can see it and read it daily.

"From Victim to Victor" has turned out to be the theme of the week. NO MORE!

Understand what is worded in the graphic above - YOU WERE CREATED VICTORIOUS!

I really want to encourage you to listen to the podcast on this topic. You can find the links at the end of the article.

As I've said before, you may not be a believer in God or the Bible but, at the same time, I want to encourage you to read what the Bible has to say about how God feels about you! You - yes YOU - were made in the image of God! He loves you and wants the best for you.

It is a slow process, but you need to begin to STAND on the belief that, indeed, you WERE and ARE created to be VICTORIOUS!

I do understand that it is easier said than done. Especially for those of you that, perhaps, grew up being degraded and devalued. Perhaps you are one that has suffered through years of marriage to a spouse that has degraded and/or devalued you. It's not always physical or verbal! It may be that they have treated you in such a way as to make it clear that they put you last on the list, that you don't matter. (Remember, it's time to stop living a life of left overs!).

I need to point out, again, that this may also include men! Many times when we talk of these things we talk about women and children. It is true that there are too many women and too many children that have endured this type of lifestyle. However, there are also MEN who have gone through the same thing. There are MEN who have endured a life growing up being treated with the continued negative impact of being made to feel as if they had no value or worth to anyone. There are MEN out there, as well, who have lived with a spouse that has done the same - made them feel as if they were of no value or worth to anyone.

YOU WERE CREATED VICTORIOUS!

It is a long process to begin to believe that and live it but, it begins TODAY!

I want you to know this as well: realize it or not, you have already been a light to and for someone else! That's right. Perhaps they see your perseverance in a difficult situation. Perhaps they see that you can still smile at them when you see them. Perhaps others have seen and experienced your helpful touch. There are others that have looked and been encouraged and inspired by you. Yes, YOU!

Remember, "As long as there is breath, there is hope."

On a personal note: I got this graphic from a dear friend that simply told me that it hit close to home. I have no idea what has gone on in her life and I didn't ask her. If you are reading this - I love you! Thank you for sharing this graphic so that I could use it to hopefully help others. YOU are beautiful, YOU are of value and YOU were made VICTORIOUS!

Thank you, friends, for allowing me to share. Even though I don't know you, I care about you and for you. I'd love to hear from you and, at least, please be sure to share this and the information from the week with those that need it.

And, as always, as you go through your day, be sure to...

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

Mike

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

                                         Start your home based business HERE
 

Action Removes Doubt

If you've never taken the opportunity to do so when I have mentioned this before, I want to tell you that you NEED to go to www.DaniJohnson.com and check out what this lady has to share and offer you and anyone that goes to her site. There is a LOT of free stuff for you there. This lady KNOWS what she is talking about - that's why I share stuff from her so often on the Facebook fan page that you can access here.

 

It's been said many times in many different ways by many different people but what you see said in the graphic above comes from Dani Johnson for this day: "ACTION takes you out of doubt, while doubt takes you OUT OF ACTION!"

 

Doubt - or FEAR - can and will paralyze you, freeze you, to the point of doing nothing. This only creates more doubt and/or fear due to the lack of results. It is a vicious downward spiral that CAN be corrected but it can only be corrected with ACTION!

 

Hey friend, I'm speaking to myself here as well!

 

I did come up with this little phrase a few years back that applies today: "If you want the plan to work you must work the plan!"

 

There was a time in my life a little over twenty years ago when I was out of work and, partly due to this, I slipped into a deep depression. One of the most frustrating things about this was also something that added to the depression. The very thing(s) that I knew I NEEDED to be doing - HAD to be doing, I did not - COULD NOT, do. I KNEW that I needed to get out of bed and go find a job - ANY job...but I just couldn't do it. Now, if you've never been through that I understand that you cannot understand that concept but, if you have been there, then you know exactly what I'm describing.

 

The very thing I needed to do to help (at least to some point) my current state of affairs was not being done which simply added to the frustration, depression and desperation.

 

I promise that I'm not trying to be over-dramatic on this but it really does relate to what we are talking about today.

 

ACTION is a necessity in ANY desire and attempt toward improvement in any area of life. Specifically for this discussion, ACTION is a necessity in any job or opportunity designed to help improve your financial situation.

 

Many are afraid and/or doubtful of their ability to do what is needed and, as a result, add to their own frustration and desperation - and DOUBT - by their very actions (or LACK of actions).

 

To change up a well known commercial phrase: "Just GET UP and DO IT!"

 

You've often heard that the only way to overcome a fear is to face it.

 

ACTION removes doubt AND fear.

 

It's as simple as that but, at the same time, one of the hardest things to DO. But, do it, you MUST!

 

And, as you do so, be sure to...

 

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

 

Mike

 

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

                             Make money from home with Mike!

 



There is HOPE!

"As long as there is breath, there is hope!"

It's hard to believe, but it has been three years since I first began doing my podcast back on March 2, 2009. And, the very first podcast I did was focused on another of my catch phrases that I use as often as I can - it's the phrase that you see just below the image above... "As long as there is breath, there is hope!" 

What message is more needed today - RIGHT NOW - than a message of hope? We live in a world - not just in our own country, but the WORLD - that seems to increasingly lose sight of hope. Desperation, depression, discouragement, doubt and defeat. This is NOT the life of a winner and it is NOT the life that was designed for you to live!

I do believe that even in the midst of dire situations one can find HOPE. I do believe that it is imperative that one DOES find hope in such situations!

Several years ago I was in a defeated state of mind. I had applied for several jobs that I was qualified to fill and usually had not problem in getting. However, I kept running into roadblocks and, at the time, I had no idea why. One night after receiving another phone call telling me that I did not get the position applied for, I lay in bed with tears in my eyes and told my wife, "I have lost all hope." That's right - I was WAY down and honestly felt that all hope was gone. Thank God for women like my wife who replied, "Mike, if we lose hope, what do we have?"

THAT'S RIGHT! If we lose hope, what do we have? I can answer that for you - NOTHING!

This is why people that feel that they have lost all hope many times feel that they have nothing to live for and, often, attempt and sometimes succeed in taking their own lives.

LISTEN TO ME - as long as you are ALIVE...as long as you are BREATHING - THERE IS HOPE! Regardless of how "dark" things may seem and no matter how "hopeless" your life and situation may seem. God has given you the ability to THINK, REASON and ACT upon those thoughts and your reasoning.

Know this - it likely will NOT be a speedy process but you CAN and MUST understand that you CAN and MUST start taking steps TODAY to make changes in your life. It may be simply making changes on what you allow into your mind - get rid of the negative and replace it with the positive! It may be you changing the way you interact with your family or your coworkers or whoever it may be TODAY. Start TODAY! Don't try to do it all at once, but start making changes NOW.

You are breathing, you are alive and you are ABLE to do what it takes to change the direction that your life is headed at this time. "As long as there is breath there is HOPE!"

There is likely someone out there waiting for YOU to impact their life in a powerful and positive way. Who? I have no idea. When? Again, I have no idea. But here's the key - neither do YOU! But you never know who you will come into contact with that needed your smile or kind word.

Dictionary.com lists this as the first definition for the word "hope" - "the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best".

Whatever you do, NEVER GIVE UP! Whatever you do, NEVER GIVE UP HOPE!

Why? Once again, without hope, you have nothing and, my friend, you have EVERYTHING to live for, to work for, to love for when you have HOPE!

Get it? Got it? Good!

Thanks for being a part of Future You University - especially those of you that have been with me over the past three years. And, for those of you that are "newcomers" - I encourage you to stay with me and let me hear from you. I love getting feedback from my readers/listeners.

Whatever you do, be sure to...

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

Mike

Avoid the Flatline

Avoid the Flatline

Oh yeah, when you or someone you love is in the hospital you DO NOT want to see that pattern shown above. You don't want to see the dreaded "flatline"!

You WANT to see the "ups and downs" that indicate that your heart is pumping and working showing that you are ALIVE!

Now, surely, you are catching the obvious comparisons here, right? I've already talked about the "pattern of life" that we often go through in our own lives when we experience the "ups and downs".

We think we'd LOVE it if all we ever encountered were "up times". We AVOID the "down times" as much as possible yet, just as with the EKG readout, the "ups and downs" in our own lives are also indicators that we are ALIVE!

And, just like in the hospital and on the EKG readout we should also AVOID THE "FLATLINE" in the pattern of our life!

Many people flatline when they have hit an extended down period in their lives but it is also possible to "flatline" when things aren't so bad. That's right. It's easy to "settle for the mundane" or "the easy". It's easy to want to live life without "rocking the boat" or creating any waves.

BORING!

And dangerous IF you want to avoid the "flatline".

Hey, listen... whether you are settling for mediocrity or stuck in a down period, whatever you do - DO NOT FLATLINE!

In other words, do NOT give up and do NOT settle.

We see the dangers of this type of "inactivity" all around us. A body of water that does not have flow ("life", energy) becomes a STAGNANT pool of FILTH and DISEASE! A person that is inactive WILL face health issues and this is really evident in those that are confined to nursing homes when they are unable to move about. They MUST be moved or they will develop all sorts of bed sores as well as other ailments.

MOVEMENT IS A MUST FOR LIFE!

Again, even if you are in an extended down period - DO NOT GIVE UP! Look for those small "up-ticks" in your day. It may be the smile of a friend or the sunshine or whatever it is. LOOK FOR THESE THINGS in your day so that you DO NOT "flatline" and become stagnant!

Remember, "As long as there is breath there is hope!" - DO NOT EVER FORGET THAT!

Tomorrow, in the concluding article for this series I will discuss the HOPE that we still have even if we HAVE "flatlined". Be sure to join me for this important discussion.

Until then...

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

Mike

www.MichaelSpillman.com

Life's LITERAL Pattern

Life's LITERAL Pattern

In yesterday's discussion we talked about different "patterns" that we all have in our lives. Hey, how many did YOU come up with in your own life?

I'm sure you have already figured the connection to this discussion by looking at the picture combined with the title of today's article. There are "general" patterns that we can observe all around us each and every day and then there is the very specific and LITERAL "pattern of life" shown on an EKG readout.

Notice the pattern has "ups" and it also has "downs". Should we be concerned because there are "downs" in this pattern? Should we get frustrated, discouraged and/or depressed because of these down "ticks" in this wave pattern?

Of course not! Hey, as long as it keeps moving up and down we're happy, right? Why?

BECAUSE AS LONG AS IT KEEPS MOVING IT IS EVIDENCE THAT WE ARE STILL ALIVE!

Now, please believe me when I say that I understand that all of this sounds a bit cliche, o.k.? But, whether it sounds that way or not really has nothing to do with the fact that it is TRUE!

The "ups and downs" that we all experience in our lives simply PROVES that we are ALIVE and participating in this "ride" that we call LIFE!

Life is not always FAIR and it is not always FUN. Somewhere along the way we bought into this myth and, for many, this false expectation about life has brought a lot of disappointment into their lives.

Even those that we might perceive of living a "dream life" deal with "ups and downs" in their lives. But, many times, there is a difference that we may not see.

What is it?

THEY HAVE LEARNED THIS SECRET ABOUT " UPS AND DOWNS" - they are a PART of LIFE itself and, like we have already discusses, they come AND go!

Many of these people view life just as they do the stock market. They do not "freak out" when the stock market takes a "dip" or even a "dive". Why? Because they prepared themselves for the long haul and they know that it will rebound.

Others are ready to jump out of a window while those that have prepared simply watch and wait for the pattern to continue.

Really think about that and let it sink in - it could make a major change in your approach to life.

Come back tomorrow and we'll continue this discussion of "Life's Patterns" and what it means to each of us.

And, until then...

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

Mike

www.MichaelSpillman.com

"When the Going Gets Tough" - Conclusion

"Conclusion: Another 'R' To Consider"

As we conclude the thoughts on the saying, "When the going gets tough the tough get going" I want to encourage you to realize one thing: YOU CAN MAKE IT THROUGH ANY TOUGH TIME THAT COMES YOUR WAY!

Yes, some are easier to handle than other and some take longer to work through than others but the key thing to remember is that you CAN make it through!

Even though I have not gone into real "in-depth" discussions on each part of this series, I do believe that you have the FOUNDATION that you need to be able to incorporate them into your life to help you during times of struggle.

Bottom line: You'll never improve your situation until you decide to do something different than what you have done before.

As I said at the beginning of this series, first and foremost - YOU HAVE A CHOICE in anything and everything that you do and you also have a choice when it comes time to facing tough situations in your life.

Stop being a victim! Stop trying to find someone else to blame and TAKE CONTROL of your life and DECIDE NOW that you will move ahead!

This is all part of "The 3 R's of Change" that we discussed in yesterday's article. You NEED to "retreat, regroup and rethink" before you move forward again.

Learning from your mistakes is one thing but it doesn't mean that you have to keep making the SAME mistakes over and over again. Actually, what that would mean is that you didn't learn anything at all!

Now, today, in the conclusion I discuss still yet, another "R". I know. I said that there were only three. Well, actually there ARE "The 3 R's of Change" and this one actually is something that may be needed AFTER you go through the first three.

Remember the example of the football or basketball going to the locke room at halftime? That would be the "retreat" part of the equation.

They may need to wrap some ankles or tend to other injuries or even just rehydrate. That would be PART of the "regroup" part of the equation.

However, "regrouping" and "rethinking" are closely tied together. Part of "regrouping" is allowing yourself the time to actually "rethink" the situation as well. Following the example that we used in yesterday's article, the coaching staff would need to look at what has already happened in the first half and then decide - based on what they have seen and experienced - what their "plan of attack" will be for the second half.

If it has not been working then they will "rethink" what they have been doing and they will MAKE A CHANGE and go out onto the field or court with a different game plan.

But, what if NOTHING seems to work over and over again? (Have you been there? I have!)

If the coaching staff continues to "retreat, rethink and regroup" they may eventually discover that the problem is that one of their positions needs to have a change made! Perhaps they have had a key player get injured OR the player that they have in a certain position just isn't quite getting the job done.

What do they do? They "RECRUIT" someone else to come in with the hopes of "filling the gap" and improving the team.

So, this other "R" that we will discuss briefly today is "RECRUIT".

YOU may need to do some recruiting in your own life! This just simply means that you might want to consider the possibility of getting some additional HELP to aide you in your desire to "break through" your tough situation.

Perhaps you may need to "recruit" some materials into your life that will help give you the positive mindset that you need in order to keep moving forward. This blog along with my podcast and other materials is a great example of what I'm talking about. On my website (http://www.michaelspillman.com/) you can also get a free copy of Napoleon Hill's great book, "Think and Grow Rich" as well as access some materials from the late, great Jim Rohn.

You can go and get some free information from http://www.success.com/ and subscribe to their magazine if you think it would be worth the money to do so.

The main thought here is that you UNDERSTAND the need to "fill the gap" that may exist in your life and the mindset needed in order to persevere during tough times.

You may also need to RECRUIT some friends (but make sure they are friends with a POSITIVE mindset as well and NOT someone with a negative mindset which would be self-defeating) to help you stay on track as you do the same for them.

And, finally, you may need to RECRUIT a "mentor" - someone that you trust and respect and that you will actually LISTEN to as well as take to heart the things that they share with you.

This could be a friend - preferably, at least in my thought, an older person that has already experienced some of life's tough times and has come through - that you know personally OR you may even be able to connect with someone that you have become acquainted with via a book or some other source.

However, the probability of you being able to have someone as a mentor in this second category will likely cost you quite a bit of money. True, many people will say that someone is their "mentor" because they have read many of their books and/or listened to them via mp3, CD or even at live events. I agree that some people "connect" with others in a more powerful way (Jim Rohn is that person for me) and that they may have a POWERFUL impact on a persons life without ever even meeting them - but, to me, this is not what I mean by a "mentor".

When I talk about a mentor, I am talking about someone that you can sit down and talk to face to face.

Why is this so important? Because they can talk to you and discuss with you the SPECIFICS of your situation even as they may change from day to day.

But will you listen? It will do no good at all to "recruit" a mentor if you are not willing to listen and take some advice from this person.

That would be like a football team recruiting a new running back to replace their injured running back and then never putting the guy in the game.

Friend, my guess is that, if at all possible, you NEED to find a "mentor" in your life. I say this regardless of the situation that you find yourself in right now. I have benefited greatly over the years by having someone much older and wiser than myself in my life and to be able to sit down and "pick their brain" on different topics.

Why not try it in and for your life as well?

So, when the going gets tough...

- you have some choices to make (you can either GIVE UP or GET UP and keep moving)

- you probably will need to make some CHANGES from what you have been doing before

- you can incorporate "The 3 R's of Change" to help aide you in this process

- you may need to "RECRUIT" someone older and wiser for some advice

So what?

So what will YOU do now that you have this information? It's always up to you. Others can advise and suggest but YOU are the one that will decide what to do.

I will help any way that I can - please don't hesitate to contact me via the contact tab on the main site.

Until the next time...

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

Mike

Keep on Celebrating!

Keep on Celebrating!

How is your celebration going today?

Are you allowing the negative things that surround you each and every day to get you down? Are you allowing it to sway you toward "stinkin' thinkin' "?

Remember, it's a CHOICE!

And, yes, I do realize it's easier said than done. But, honestly, isn't anything worthwhile easier said than done?

And yes, let's just get real here - sometimes no matter how hard we try, regardless of how much "good stuff" we fill our minds with, LIFE GETS US DOWN.

But, I'm simply here to try to encourage you to GET UP and not GIVE UP when that happens in your life!

Notice these words from the song, "Don't let it get you down...don't let it turn you around..."

Again, what we ALLOW these things to do in our lives (and TO our lives) is the main thing!

DON'T let it turn you around and send you in the opposite direction of your goals and dreams! Don't allow these things to persuade you to give up on your goals and dreams and head back to where you were before. DON'T DO IT!

And, then the last verse of this awesome song:

Well, I can't be bothered with sorrow - And I can't be bothered with hate, no, no
I'm using up the time but feeling fine, every day

YES, there are some very real emotions (sorrow) that can take the wind out of our sails...but, again, even allow those times to celebrate life! If you are mourning the loss of someone close to you - celebrate the memory of THEIR life and then allow the fact that you can share those memories with others and help that persons memory live on cause YOU to celebrate YOUR life!

Sometimes we call it "sorrow" though when we become discouraged and disappointed. We feel sad when, in reality, it may very well be such strong discouragement that we become depressed. Please understand that I'm not making light of this - I've been there! - but I still want to encourage you to NOT ALLOW THIS TO TAKE ROOT IN YOUR LIFE!

There is too much to enjoy and celebrate in this life to have time to allow the negative influences to take root and control our lives in this way! Whether it be sorrow, hate, discouragement, anger....the list can go on and on! And, the thing is - LIFE GOES ON!

I'm going to talk more about this tomorrow but the point is made here - we are "using up the time" one way or the other! Time comes and time goes. "Today is the tomorrow that you worried about yesterday".

A day will come and go in the life of those focusing on the positive things of life as well as those that allow the negative things of life to take root and rule theirs.

By choosing to celebrate ANYWAY we can continue "feeling fine, every day"!

So, come on - get on up and KEEP ON CELEBRATING!

And, as you do so...

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

Mike

Rut Repellent

Rut Repellent

You know, if I could figure out a way to actually produce and market the items you see pictured above, I could rest easy knowing that I would NEVER have to worry about money again! (Be sure to listen to my "mock commercial" for these two amazing products on today's podcast).

But, you can look all you want - you won't find these products in any store, on any website or on any television "infomercial".

But wouldn't it be great if we COULD just go buy a can of this stuff and not have to worry about our tendencies to get into ruts ever again? Wouldn't it be great to also be able to spray some of this stuff on and not have to worry about falling BACK into ruts?

Even if it existed it still wouldn't do us any good until we got it out of the can. Just buying it and having it in our ownership would not do a thing for us in the way of "rut protection". I know you can agree on that fact, right?

Yet, how many of us - myself included at times - have "rut protection" in our ownership but fail to apply it (get it out of the can)?

What do I mean? Things like these blogs and podcasts along with the many others that exist out there by such greats as Jim Rohn (have you checked out his materials via the products tab on my website?). Things like the FREE access to success.com that I have mentioned over and over again as well as the opportunity to subscribe to the actual magazine. The many books, blogs and articles that are available to us that would help us get out of a rut and STAY out of a rut.

But, although they are available and we may even have some of these in our ownership or possession - many of us do nothing with them... we never "get it out of the can".

So, here we go again, right? It all comes back to YOU.

That's right. It's up to YOU to apply the "rut repellent" that is available to each and every one of us on a daily basis.

Jesus even stressed how important it was to DO something when He said something along the lines of, "But be DOERS and not just HEARERS...".

Good point!

So, yeah, make sure you READ! Make sure you LISTEN!

But, even more importantly - don't forget to DO SOMETHING with what you have acquired from your reading and listening.

Otherwise, you might as well leave the "rut repellent" on the store shelf - it will do you just as much good there as it will sitting on your own shelf unused.

Something to think about, isn't it?

One sure way to repel ruts is to do what I encourage you to do each and every day...

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

Mike

Happy Regardless!

Happy Regardless!

Clouds. Rain. Storms.

Rainbows. Sunshine. Clear skies.

All of these are a part of daily and/or weekly events in our weather. And, we cannot have one without the other and, for most of us, we would not want it to be just "one way" all of the time!

Oh sure, when it's raining for several days in a row the idea of constant sunshine seems really pleasant, doesn't it? But then, when we have a drought and the sun just keeps burning down with no relief in sight we tend to wish, once again, for some of that rain!

That's just the way we are!

When it's bitter cold in the middle of winter we whine and complain about it being TOO cold and then, when it's in the middle of summer we whine and complain that it's TOO hot!

Hey, that's just life, isn't it?

The struggle that we all share when dealing with weather is to learn to be HAPPY REGARDLESS!

Sun or rain - deal with it and have a happy, positive attitude!

Take this example and magnify it ten times or more and you have the situation of us struggling to not base our happiness on people and/or events! Said in a different way - learning to be HAPPY REGARDLESS!

Happy regardless of what people do or say to us.

Happy regardless of who does or doesn't like us.

Happy regardless of whether or not we got that "perfect" job.

Happy regardless of whether or not we got that raise.

Happy regardless of the fact that our air conditioner just went out and it's 110 degrees outside.

Happy regardless of the "storms" that come our way.

Oh, I know that I didn't touch on some really serious struggles that come with the death of someone that we love or tragedy's that come due to accidents or destructive natural events. But please allow what might appear to be a "surface discussion" work it's way deep down into your inner being of hurt. It still applies although, once again, it's easier said than done.

From the Bible we read the apostle Paul describe his dealing with such struggles when he said something along this line: "Ive been through all kinds of things. Good things and a whole lot of bad things. (He even goes on to make a list of all of the bad stuff that has happened to him). But here is what I've learned...whether everything is going great or NOTHING is going even "good", I have learned to be content. Regardless."

Now, that's not an exact quote, but that's the heart of the message.

For us, this can only come when we develop the understanding that happiness - TRUE happiness - must come from within. When I say "true happiness" I'm talking about the kind of happiness that is not at the whim of other people or things. The kind of peace and happiness that comes REGARDLESS of what is going on around me.

THIS IS NOT EASY! But it IS possible! And, again, it is a process.

Why not work on this process beginning today?

Here's a way to begin - pay attention to your attitude and your moods as you go through the day.

Do you allow yourself to get easily "worked up" when something doesn't go the way you wish? If someone doesn't behave the way you think they should do you get angry and resentful toward that person?

What about something as simple as if your favorite television show is not on for some reason - honesty check your attitude at that time.

These are all indicators that we are allowing outside influences to "control" our mood and, yes, even our happiness.

If you're like me you don't like those examples because you can find them all day every day in your own life!

So, simply begin by PAYING ATTENTION and BEING AWARE.

When you find yourself getting these feelings of disappointment, discouragement, frustration and, yes, even anger, stop and think about what is going on. Take a deep breath and say to yourself that you will NOT allow this (whatever it is or whoever it is) to impact your attitude and your happiness in this way.

It's not worth it!

The more you pay attention the more you will find that this happens in your life. DO NOT BECOME DISCOURAGED at this discovery! You are not unusual in this way - many (if not all) of those around you struggle with the exact same thing!

But, the difference with you is this: you now know that it IS something that you can control and you now know HOW and WHAT you can do to begin to get this under control.

It's in your hands and YOU have the control in this area as well as many other areas in your life.

You can do it and you WILL do it IF you make a decision to begin today!

Do it. And AS you do it...

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

Mike

Get Into the Light

Yesterday, we discussed the times in our lives when we go through the "darkness" and even, at times, feel as if all hope has been lost.

WE ALL DO! Realize that and know that you are not alone.

The key thing to ask yourself is this: "What am I going to do about it?"

Just like a dark night, those dark times in our life can seem to be endless and very lonely. However, always remember that every night is followed by day!

The LIGHT is there and it IS coming! You MUST believe that even when you cannot see the light or even see any promise of the light.

Therein lies the hope. "As long as there is breath, there is hope!"

Hope that things will be better. Hope - based on knowledge - that things MUST get better! As long as you are alive and breathing - things CAN improve!

Let's also remember that, just as I pointed out in yesterday's message, life is like a roller coaster in that there are up AND down times all throughout our lives. Just because things improve doesn't mean that you will now be immune to any future struggles!

Just as every night is followed by day...every day is also followed by night.

So, you see, you MUST equip yourself and gain that deep-rooted belief (the subconscious) that WILL pull you through even the darkest times.

I encourage you to check out either Success Magazine or go to Success.com (click on "home" then "current issue" and you will see a list of the archived items on the left side and look for the August 2009 issue) and read the article about Michael J. Fox and the struggles that he has been through. He has allowed the struggles to take his life in a whole new direction which brings him much joy! Read it - you'll be glad you did!

Gloria Estefan, a well known musician (ever hear of her or the Miami Sound Machine? Sure you have!) was involved in an accident on her tour bus in March of 1990. Gloria suffered a broken vertebra in her back. In a four-hour operation several days later, surgeons realigned Estefan's spine and implanted steel rods to buttress the fracture. With a prognosis for complete recovery doubtful, Estefan retired to her home on Star Island, near Miami, to begin her long recovery. In March of 1991 she launched a year-long tour to tout her comeback album "Into the Light".

Friend, you and I are not any different than these people that I have used for an example today. Even in the times that we feel there is no recovery - WE CAN and WE MUST!

Know this - the light IS there! You have to KNOW that and you have to BELIEVE that and you must begin your journey (one day at at time) to get out of that darkness and back into the light!

I'd love to hear from you. Share your thoughts and feelings and questions with me if you'd like. Again, you can do that by sending an email to me at mike@futureyouuniversity.com

You can do it - I know you can!

And, as always - "Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Fight Through the Darkness

Let's take some time to "get real".

We ALL have problems and "bumps" along the way that can easily derail us if we allow them to do so, right? Sure we do!

However, sometimes we put others on a pedestal and assume that they have no problems or "bumps" in their lives - NOT TRUE! As a matter of fact, if you follow any great "leader" in any industry, you will find or hear discussed struggles that they have gone through and/or ARE going through.

"Google" any persons name that you want to look at that is "famous" and do some research and you will find this to be true. Donald Trump, for example. I remember a time when he hit rock bottom and was basically the laughing stock of late night television. He has rebounded, has he not? I used the example of Sam Walton, founder of the Wal-Mart stores, on today's podcast. Back in 1987 the stock market crashed in a big way. I'm not sure the exact number concerning the amount of money that Mr. Walton (among others) lost in that one day - BUT IT WAS HUGE! His response? "Those are just numbers on paper" - or something very similar to that.

So you see, even these "titans" in the business world have to deal with setbacks and struggles. Why should you or I be any different?

In today's podcast I go further into the story of how I went from $32,000 in one year to only $5,000/year in income the next. I can tell you that it was painful to relive this and share it with you. So, why do it?

1. I want you to know that I, too, have problems in my life. I am not immune.
2. I want you to know that the things I say are not just a bunch of "hype" or "rah-rah" as I call it.
3. I want you to know that when I say things like, "Where there is breath, there is hope!" - I mean it and I know what I'm saying on this to be TRUE!

In my darkest times it was truly hard to keep hope.

In 1991, after the birth of my youngest son I did finally land a new job in another state. This job allowed us to climb out of debt and get back on our feet. It wasn't easy and it took a lot of self-discipline on the part of my wife and I as well as a designed plan that we came up with to make this happen. We did so and then the bottom fell out again as I was fired from this job. I was hurt. I was bitter. I was angry.

Time gets away from me and I can't exactly tell you what year that was, but I was not at this job very long - not even a year - when this happened. The spiral of debt and my struggle with depression hit again. However, this time, as hard as it was, I seemed to be more determined not to allow the depression to gain hold of me (I'll talk more about this in tomorrow's podcast) but it still was very, very difficult.

It was during this time that I seemed to hit one of my lowest points. A time when, laying in bed with my wife with tears streaming down my face I said, "I've lost all hope." To which my wife replied with something along the lines of, "We can't lose hope! If we lose hope we don't have anything!" Powerful words!

Bottom line...we made it out of those times, landed another good job after a period of time and have left those times of desperation in the past. Yet, I felt that it was important to share them with you and to encourage YOU to "Fight Through the Darkness!".

And now? My life is still not immune to struggles. As you know, my wife almost died from a heart attack three weeks ago tomorrow. That hit hard! And now also comes the wading through the mountain of medical bills that have come as a result of that struggle.

Honestly, I'm not sure how I'm going to handle this - but I will! I WILL handle this and I WILL NOT allow this to pull me back down. NO WAY!

I REFUSE to give in to doubt and pity and negative thinking!

So, in all reality, you will be with me as I go down this road - and I have no idea where this road is headed. But, here's the key - I AM PREPARED FOR THE JOURNEY.

Have you adequately "packed your bags" for the journey? A journey that has many twists and surprises in store for you? Some good. Some bad. But all a part of life?

Are you prepared - HAVE you prepared yourself to - FIGHT THROUGH THE DARKNESS?

I'll be here. Let's help each other as we go through this journey together.

And, all along the way, be sure to remember to...

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

Mike