The Timeline for "The Final 100"

O.k. folks, I have a major announcement about my podcast and, perhaps, even my blog coming in the very near future.

I recently recorded podcast #897. Believe it or not, this is way less that I thought it would be at this point based on the beginning on March 2, 2009. Yes, it IS a great accomplishment and, yes, I am proud of this accomplishment but I have decided that it is time to make some major changes to the podcast and, again, maybe even the blog.

I will record two more "regular" podcasts (898 and 899) and then I will record #900, the first of "The Final 100". Number 900 will be a preparation podcast detailing what is going to be taking place but I will give you a quick insight here.

If you have followed me since the beginning of this year (2018) then you know that I plan to be a part of the John Maxwell Team by the end of this year. Once I do that I will begin working on putting myself into a position of doing far more in the area of public speaking, etc.

Once I get to that point (starting to speak and do other things) I will then begin the completion of "The Final 100". Once I reach #1,000 I plan to stop with the podcasts - at least in the way that I've done them for the past nine years.

How long will it take before I do podcast #901? At this point I have no idea.

What does this mean as far as this blog? Again, to be honest, I have no idea.

Here's what I DO know...you can keep up with all of this by going to the fan page on Facebook.

"The Final 100" will more or less be a "re-launch" of the podcast and maybe even the blog.

Again, you will be able to keep up with the details via the Facebook link...be sure to do so and also be sure to stop by and make a comment from time to time.

Be sure to watch for those final two episodes of the podcast and the blog articles that will go along with them!

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

YouTube

CONCLUSI0N: "Taking the Journey: Detours, Delays and Delusions"

Right off I want to encourage you to be sure and listen to the podcast (RSS feed  - iTunes) and/or watch the video on this important conclusion of this series.

There will be MORE information shared in those avenues than will be shared in this short blog article (be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel).

We have really already talked about the DETOURS. I actually thought about concluding this series by talking about how we can actually AVOID IN ADVANCE some of the detours.

Is it possible to avoid some of these in advance? Yes, it is! For example, before heading out to work one might turn on a local news channel to see if they have any traffic reports so that they can plan their route accordingly. Even after they have gotten in their automobile, one might turn to a radio station that has regular traffic updates so that they can continue to be aware of potential detours in advance.

In our personal journey to a better and brighter future it is also possible to know - in advance - of possible situations or people that might cause a detour in that journey. People, places and "things" may cause a detour. People: There may be some people (or groups of people) that you know in advance that you need to AVOID so that their negativity does not slow you down or take you off of your course. Places: Perhaps there are even some places that you need to avoid knowing, in advance, that they may cause a detour. One may even be sitting in front of the television set. Things: Sometimes we can cause our own detours by getting distracted with "things" or "stuff" that we THINK is part of our progress that, in reality, may be nothing more than busy work.

DELAYS 

For this discussion, I consider "detours" as something that we are not necessarily responsible for...something that is pretty much out of our control. However, when I think about DELAYS, I consider these more as something that WE DO have control over. In other words, in this discussion, when it comes to DELAYS, we have no one to "blame" but ourselves. 

These type of delays may come due to over planning or finding all kinds of reasons NOT to get started on this journey... at least not yet. Many times these delays (even the ones I just mentioned) are due to FEAR. This has to do with our mindset in this area. We can literally "scare ourselves into inactivity" and cause unending delays. Yes, it is true, the best way to get rid of this type of fear is to face it and attack it head on.

DILUSIONS 

Example: If you think that you are going to get in your car and drive from Los Angeles to New York City on one tank of gas...you are delusional. If you think that you are going to make the same trip without ANY detours and/or delays, you are also delusional. 

In like manner, if you think that, on your journey to a better and brighter future you will no longer need to "study" and absorb information to keep your positive energy tank filled and fueled, you are being delusional.  

Maybe you are still "early on" in this journey and you haven't really had any delays and/or detours as of yet. BEWARE! To think that you will NOT have any delays and/or detours along your path is a DELUSION! You are kidding yourself and, to be more blunt, you are lying to yourself! Don't listen to and don't believe such a lie.

And, finally, if you think, after listening to a bunch of hype, that (for example) you are going to make a million dollars in six months...you got it, you are delusional! I'm not sure where I first read or heard this but I have always tried to remember it and, yes, I do have to remind myself of this fact from time to time: We often OVER estimate what we can accomplish over the short term and UNDER estimate what we can accomplish over the long term.  

You are in control! Be aware of the possible detours, delays and delusions that may be before you that could cause you to get "off track".

Thanks for joining me and, until next time, 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

YouTube

"Taking the Journey - What Route Will You Take?"

Whatever you do, be sure to check out the video cast (Vlog) as well as the podcast of this topic  by clicking on the appropriate links at the end of this article.  

As we continue our analogy of "taking a journey" with what it is that you want to accomplish during this year, we now look at which "route" you will take in order to reach your destination. 

Again, if you don't know where it is you want to go, how will you know when you get there?

Last time, we talked about which VEHICLE you would use for your journey and we talked about how it depended on the destination. You could walk, ride a bicycle, drive, ride a train, fly in an airplane and/or ride on a boat. And, you could actually do ALL of these on one journey!  

Is there only ONE ROUTE to take in order to reach your destination? Not likely!

You may decide to take a leisurely approach to your journey so that you can stop and "see the sites" along the way. Your goal may not be so much "getting there" but, instead, enjoying the journey along the way to "getting there".

Or, for whatever reason, you may want to get to your destination as quickly as possible, even if it means driving all night!

Your reason for the trip (your "WHY") will greatly determine what route you take and at what pace/speed, right?  

Just don't get the two confused! Here's what I mean - if you have told your family that you are going to take a leisurely trip so that all of you can enjoy some special sites and adventure and then, along the way, you decide you want to just "zoom" right past all of that so that you can save time, you will likely have a very unhappy family with you! Why? Because you said you were going to take one kind of journey and then actually took a very different kind of journey. What you SAID and what you DID were two different things.

On the other hand, if a family member calls you and tells you that another family member is deathly ill and that you need to get there as quickly as possible, what would you do? You would likely tell them that you would leave as soon as possible and get there as quickly as possible, right? But, what if along the way a sign for the world's BIGGEST ball of yarn caught your eye and you took a 50 mile round trip detour to go see it and then decided to stop off at a souvenir shop to commemorate that amazing sight? Would there be disappointment in you shown by your family members when you showed up many hours later than you could have and should have? OF COURSE!

 When planning out your "route" it is important do make a decision as to what type of journey you wish this to be. Don't whine and complain about it taking too long to arrive at your destination if you have ended up having a leisurely attitude and approach toward reaching your destination.

Make sense?

But what if you got "off track" and didn't even realize it for quite a while? Is it too late to still reach your destination? 

Yes...and no.

Join me next time as we discuss that important factor in reaching your destination.

Until then...

"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

Taking the Journey: How Will You Get There?

If you haven't done so, it is VERY IMPORTANT for you to go back and "catch up" on this series. It actually goes back to this article entitled, "What Do YOU Want?" and progresses each week from there.

So, in a nutshell, here is the whole process behind this current series. For one, I have stopped doing "New Year's Resolutions" because, like so many, I never really ever followed through with them and usually felt discouraged because of that repeated process. What about you?

However, this year I KNEW I had to take a different approach than I have ever taken before if there was going to be real, positive and powerful change in my life like I wanted - REALLY wanted like never before. As a matter of fact, I came up with what I have called my "Statement of Fact" about this very thing. Here is what I wrote down and committed to about this "journey" that I MUST take:

I took the time to get out my notebook and "brainstorm" about what I REALLY wanted to take place in and for my life in this coming year. I knew that it was time to stop TALKING about what I wanted to accomplish and start taking DEFINITE STEPS OF ACTION in order to bring this into reality.

Go back to last weeks article to get more specific information and details about this "map" that I have posted here in the graphic below. This is a "template" and you need to make it uniquely yours! But, bottom line, I KNEW where I wanted to be by the end of this year and I also knew where I was currently. 

NOW the part of the puzzle I had to figure out was HOW I was going to get from where I was to where I was going to be. The "gap" between these two things is what I am calling "the journey" and the "how" I was going to do so is what I am calling "my vehicle".

Again, go back and listen and read the previous entries on this to get the specifics about what this is for me and then work on what it means for you. But whatever you do, IF you are serious about making marked improvement in your life during the course of this year - DO IT and stop just talking about it. 

Again, this graphic above is what I call my "map" with the understanding that I must MAP OUT my patch on this "journey" that I am on for this year.

Why is it important to have a "map" or a plan for such a journey? Notice the next graphic and what Dave Ramsey says about that...

So, what VEHICLE will you use to take you from where you are to where you plan to be? How will you get there?

Well, it really depends on the journey, does it not? If you're just going up the street, your feet might be able to get you there. If you're going to the grocery store in town, just about any old car or truck might get you there. Maybe even a bicycle!

But, if you are traveling cross-country, will just any old car or truck do? Are you going to hop into a vehicle that you're not even sure would make it to the next county for such a journey? I HOPE NOT!

And what if you are traveling to another country in another part of the world? You will likely have to take more than just one type of vehicle, right? 

Here's a fact: The further the journey - the greater the distance of the journey - the more cost, time and effort will be involved.  

So, in relating to this "journey" between where we are and where we plan to be, the same thing applies. The "bigger the gap" between the two makes for a "journey" that will cost you more in money, time and effort. THAT IS A FACT!

So, what will you do? Will you decide that the destination is WORTH the extra costs in the areas of money, time and effort? Or will you decide to stay where you are?

Yes, as always, there is a CHOICE to be made and it's a choice that cannot be made by anyone but you. Notice the graphic below, "Who you are tomorrow begins with what you do today." - Tim Fargo 

Here's another thought...maybe it's time that you quit trying to make a life-changing journey with a "old car or truck" mindset. Think about it.Maybe it's time for a "new vehicle" as in a "new mindset".

What will you do?

Until next time, 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

Are We There Yet?

You don't have to be the Griswold family traveling cross country to "Wally World" to hear this phrase coming from the back seat of the car... "Are we there yet?"

 

And, the longer the trip the less time between  how often this question is asked.

 

Impatience!

 

But, as we continue using the analogy of taking a trip to the journey that we experience on the way to achieving our goals and dreams, we often find that WE - the adults involved in this thing - are impatient as well.

 

Sometimes we may even begin to think that we need to "check the map" or the GPS to see if, perhaps, we missed a turn somewhere along the way because we think we should BE THERE BY NOW!

 

If you've been following along then you know that one of the things I pointed out is that usually - if not always - it takes us longer to reach our goals than we thought it would.

 

So, remember this simple response (as long as you ARE moving forward and making progress):

 

"Are we there yet?" - - "Not yet, but we ARE a lot closer than we were before!"

 

Indeed!

 

 

And as you continue along your journey, 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 TODAY!

It's "Wide-Open Wednesday"...your world awaits!

Today we get into #6 of my "7 Life-Changing, Life-Directing, Powerful, Daily Affirmations" which is, "I WILL take steps on this journey TODAY!"

I've said it many times before - over and over again - TODAY is the MOST IMPORTANT day that you have. Why? Because it's the ONLY day that you have! Yet it seems that many of us have a hard time remembering that and an easy time forgetting that.

Remember, we can talk all we want but until we do something TODAY to move us TOWARD those goals and dreams that we talk about - it amounts to NOTHING! We can dream all we want to dream. We can plan all we want to plan. We can go to all the seminars we want and listen to and/or buy all of the inspirational materials we want. But until we decide to start putting things into MOTION/ACTION today - it amounts to nothing!

So, as you go through these 7 Daily Affirmations, realize that it is a NECESSITY for you (us) to finally "get out of the boat" and take steps on this journey. TODAY!

Too many people seem to like the IDEA of success but are unwilling to take the steps necessary to get them TO that success.

That's pretty powerful if I do say so myself! Re-read it and think about it. It IS true!

Yeah, I know this is a short article but, honestly, what more can I say about this step? Be sure to listen to the podcast that goes along with this topic and you'll hear a little more (iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mike-spillmans-future-you/id423660739 and/or the RSS feed: http://mikespillman.hipcast.com/rss/futureyouuniversity.xml ).

TODAY - stop waiting, stop putting it off, STOP PROCRASTINATING and DO SOMETHING to get you moving down that road to success!

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

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

Mike

Joy in the Journey

Today is "Fun Friday!" How appropriate that this day is tagged in such a way on the same day that today's podcast and blog is entitled, "Joy in the Journey". Have some FUN today!

Gas prices. Flat tires. Hotel rates. Road construction. Confusing signs. Detours. Cancelled flights. Wrong flights. Expensive flights. Screaming kids. Screaming adults. Yuck.

Missed deadlines. Others unenthused about your brilliant idea. Job loss. Behind on bills. Credit collectors calling. Sickness. Disease. Broken bones. Broken hearts. Loss due to death. Loneliness.

I've just described situations that may be a part of two different types of journeys. One is obviously connected to some trip or journey we may take in an automobile or plane or any other type of transport. The other, life's journey.

Now friend, if we were to just stop and take a look at these two paragraphs, let me ask you this: would YOU want to be a part of EITHER of these two journeys?

Let's go back to the first one and add some more: Smiling faces. Beaming faces. Children's laughter. Your OWN laughter. Pictures taken to keep those images alive. Sights and sounds shared. Awe. Inspiration. Time spent that will be remembered for a lifetime. Why don't YOU add some more to that list?

And the second one - our journey of life? Let's do the same and add some more descriptive words: Laughter. Love. Memories. Awe. Inspiration. Smiling faces. Beaming faces. Children's laughter. Your OWN laughter. Pictures taken to keep those images alive. Sights and sounds shared. Awe. Inspiration. Time spent that will be remembered for a lifetime. Again, why don't YOU add some more to THIS list?

Isn't it interesting how BOTH of these journeys can be described in much the same way when we consider the JOYS of such a journey?

Sure, there are hurts and disappointments that come and go in life, but don't miss that word...LIFE!

And, in the same way, as you move toward your goals and dreams, don't miss out on the JOY that is in THIS journey as well. Remember, you have had and hopefully still have a PASSION for WHY your are moving toward these goals and dreams. Remember the PURPOSE!

Don't forget to laugh along the way and to share your passion with those around you as you move ever closer to these goals and dreams.

Bottom line: DON'T GET BOGGED DOWN IN THE SET-BACKS! It's all a part of the progress, right?

Whatever you do, in ANY area of life, be sure to FIND JOY IN THE JOURNEY!

And, part of that is being sure to remember to...

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

Mike
(podcast: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mike-spillmans-future-you/id423660739 )

The Path Taken Today

The Path Taken Today

The path taken today determines...

How would YOU complete that statement?

Would you, like many, end it by stating that the path taken today will determine your future?

If you were to state such, would you be talking about your "long-term" future or just your "immediate" future?

This is going to be short and to the point so stay focused and pay attention to what I'm actually saying here, o.k.?

I'll give a nod to the fact that the path taken today may determine your immediate future but there is no way in the world that I'd even give a hint of a nod to the idea that it determines your long-term future.

How discouraging and depressing it would be (and IS for many that fall into this "often promoted yet WRONG" thought process) to think that once you've made a mistake your future is doomed because of that mistake.

Should we be careful in our choices? Sure.

But, here's the deal according to the way I see it and according to the way I've been forced to live it at times... Your FUTURE is less determined by a path that you take than it is by how QUICKLY you are able to determine if you are on a WRONG path!

Think about that for a moment.

Simple analogy - if you take a wrong turn on a trip are you DESTINED to stay on that route and continue down a wrong direction? Uh, NO.

So, for one, you can turn around and correct this wrong decision by going back to where you made a wrong turn and correcting that mistake by then taking the RIGHT path. Right?

Here's another analogy that you may relate to... have you ever taken a wrong turn and had your GPS constantly remind you to turn around? But have you also had your GPS refigure directions based on the direction you are going (even if it IS wrong based on the original mapping) and allow you to get "back on the right path"? I have on several occasions.

So, secondly, once you realize you are on the wrong path you still have the ability to make a few adjustments and get back on track to reach your original destination even if it IS not the same path you meant or intended to take in the beginning. (By the way, this could also be called a "detour").

In closing, if you've made some wrong and even bad decisions or have gone down the wrong path then WAKE UP and do something about it. There is NO reason to keep heading down the wrong path ESPECIALLY once you realize you're going the wrong way.

THAT, my friends, would be idiotic.

Wouldn't it?

Stay on track, friend and, as you go along this journey always be sure to...

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

Mike

Stayin' Put Won't Get You There!

Stayin' Put Won't Get You There!

As the "theme" for the week continues with quotes, today I will share another of mine: "Staying where you are will NEVER take you where you want to be!"

Now, I know what I'm about to say is somewhat repetitive but, look at the picture above and ask yourself this question: "If the guy in the picture stays where he is and gives up, will he ever reach his destination?" NO!

Let's get down to it and ask it this way: If YOU give up will YOU reach your destination?

Um...in a word...NO!

Yet, every day, I'm guessing that thousands of people "give up" on reaching their goals and dreams. If you could see this visually as broken down cars on the side of the highway for everyone that has done this it would make quite an impression, would it not?

There would be car after car on the side of the road with their hood up and abandoned. Done. Finished.

It would be hard for those that are trying to stay focused on their journey to weave their way in and out of all the abandoned cars (abandoned dreams).

That's really a pretty sad picture when you think about it, wouldn't you agree?

I'm not sure that I'll ever look at an abandoned car on the side of a road (or out in a field, etc.) ever again and I hope you won't either. I hope it will be a VIVID reminder for us to NEVER give up on our goals and dreams.

I've done podcasts and blogs before about this journey and about the vehicle that is needed to take us on that journey. It never changes and the need always remains the same.

Just as it is true that cars will break down and trips may be delayed, unexpected things can and will happen in our lives that can delay or detour this journey on the way to our goals and dreams.

This is true in ALL of our lives. If it hasn't been true in your life then just hang on - it's coming!

I'm not trying to be negative, friend. I'm not trying to scare you. It's just a FACT that, if you live long enough, STUFF WILL HAPPEN that we wish would NOT happen.

But what you DO about that and with that is what will separate you from others. It is what will make the difference between your life being represented by another abandoned car on the side of the road OR one that is still moving forward.

Yep, you know it's coming and here it is: IT'S UP TO YOU!

Are you catching on that ALL of this that I talk about comes down to YOU making a DECISION? That ALL of this is a CHOICE that YOU must make.

That's the way it always has been, that's the way it is and that's the way it will always be.

So, again I ask, "What will you do?"

Me? I think I'll keep driving.

And as YOU do the same (you ARE going to do the same, right?)...

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

Mike

Are YOU "Road Ready"?

Are YOU "Road Ready"?

No, I didn't ask if you were "road WEARY"...some of you may be if you are driving long distances this summer with your kids on vacation!

Continuing with the "theme" that I began yesterday in talking about us "driving" our vehicle of choice (either a positive or negative attitude), I want us to consider what we are (or aren't) doing to prepare ourselves for our daily journey.

My guess is that, if you HAVE gone on that family vacation, you probably had your automobile checked out to make sure everything was in good working order before you began the trip, right?

You wanted to make sure your tires were in good shape and that they had the right amount of air in them. You also wanted to make sure you had enough oil, antifreeze and even windshield wiper fluid for the trip. And, since it is summertime, you also wanted to make sure your air conditioner was in good working order.

You PREPARED yourself for the journey to come.

So, why should we do anything less when it comes to the journey we take each and every day? Why should we do any less when it comes to the journey we have chosen that will take us to our goals and dreams?

Too many people take off on this most important journey (yes, even our DAILY journey is of great importance - our days add up to weeks, months and years!) without proper - if any - preparation!

And we wonder why so many people - including ourselves - fail?

So, what do YOU need to do to prepare for the journey? What do YOU need to do to prepare for your journey TODAY?

You see, it's different for each one of us (to some extent) because each of us are in our own unique situation! Just like you would never take a luxury automobile on a cross-country "all terrain" road race, so will you not prepare yourself inadequately if you know you are going to be facing a LARGE load of negativity in your day.

Make sense?

If you tend to work in an environment full of negativity then you must REALLY make sure you have prepared yourself for this onslaught. It's kind of like putting on snow chains when you KNOW you are going to encounter those types of conditions -- you want to get as much "grip" as you can so that you don't slip and slide out of control.

You knew that I would say this to you sooner or later....it's up to YOU to prepare for YOUR journey!

No one else can do that for you and no one else WILL do that for you.

So, are you ready? Are you "ROAD READY" for the journey ahead today, this week, this month?

Are you "road ready" for the journey that is leading you toward your goals and dreams?

If not, how do you expect to make it to your destination?

Think about it and PREPARE for the journey! I'm here to help in any way that I can (part of the preparation process) but, again, it is totally up to YOU to get it done for yourself.

And, as you do so....

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

Mike

The Time is NOW!

The Time is NOW!

Isn't it? We've all talked about it, right? This week's podcasts and blog entries have all centered around this need that we all have IF we plan to move forward with our goals and dreams. So, isn't the time to "jump", NOW?

Here is a fact to consider: IF you choose to try to achieve your goals and dreams (and, by the way, if you don't choose to try to achieve them, why are you setting them in the first place?) you WILL face moments of FEAR and, along with those moments of FEAR, moments of DECISION.

That DECISION will be about ACTION. Will you "jump" or won't you?

I'm going to share a couple of things from the Bible just to make a point and because it also relates directly to what we are talking about today -

The apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 5:7 - "For we walk by faith, not by sight." I don't know about you but my initial reaction is, "Whoa! Hold up there, buddy! I HAVE to see where I'm going!"

And that is our initial and "natural" way of doing things. But, tell me, friend - can you see the future? Can you KNOW with 100% certainty how something is going to turn out? OF COURSE NOT!

And, this is the very FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) that keeps us where we say we don't want to be! We often want someone to make a GUARANTEE about our future and/or our plans - but that is impossible! YES we should make adequate plans and chart out our journey to the best of our ability, but there are NO guarantees!

The other day on one of the podcasts I talked about the fact that there is risk involved every time we get into our cars and drive down the street! There are risks involved every time you get on an airplane or every time I get on my motorcycle.

So, in order to avoid the risks, do you just stay put and never go anywhere? SOME PEOPLE DO!

Did you know that there is actually a word to describe those that have a fear of FAILURE? Here it is: Atychiphobia.

So, back to what the apostle Paul said - sometimes you just have to "step out" and walk by FAITH and NOT by what you can or can not see!

YES this is 100% easier said than done BUT it MUST be DONE in order to move toward success in our goals and dreams!

The writer of the book of Hebrews in the Bible says this in chapter 11:1 - "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." You see, this is NOT a "blind" faith!

When we understand that "walking by FAITH and not by SIGHT" still means we have "substance" and "evidence" then it becomes a little easier to digest!

By planning and carefully working on our "planned route" for our journey (just like planning a trip), yes, there will ALWAYS be unknowns, BUT there is evidence - either from our past experiences OR the experiences of others that have done the same - that we CAN be successful in this action. We have FAITH in that believe. Why? Because there is SUBSTANCE to that faith and also EVIDENCE to back it up!

So, again, we are NOT walking "blindly" when we talk about it being time to "jump"!

Scary? Sure. Worrisome? At times. Butterfly-producing? Most likely!

But just think about the "rush of the ride" that you are about to experience when you are feeling these emotions!

So, what would you rather do? Stay where you are and beat yourself up because, once again, you have failed to make progress in your journey? OR would you rather step out by FAITH which is backed up by SUBSTANCE and EVIDENCE and "jump"?

I ask one more time...

Isn't it time to jump? Isn't the time NOW?

Enjoy the ride and, as you do so...

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

Mike

"Don't Get Sidetracked!"

Twelve "Do's and Don'ts" For Living a Positive Life

1. Make Enthusiasm A Daily Habit!
2. Don't Allow Negative People to Determine Your Self-Worth!
3. Get Into The Habit of Talking to Yourself Affirmatively!
4. Get Into the Habit of Talking to Others With an Affirmative, Positive Vocabulary!
5. Don't Be a Grudge Collector!
6. Think Positive & Pleasing Thoughts!
7. Don't Brag - Let Your Actions Speak For You!
8. Get High on Doing Good!

9. Don't Get Sidetracked!

Actually, the original title that was on the brochure that I got these off of was, "Don't Give In To the Ads and Fads - Look for and Listen to The Truth!". But I decided to shorten it and get to the point!

There are SO many fads that come and go and, as I point out in today's podcast, we need to pay particular attention to the last half of that formula concerning these fads. They GO! And, many times they GO as quickly - if not quicker - than they came.

"New and Improved!"

Wow, how many times have we seen THAT one? The question I always have concerning "new and improved" is this: "So then, the old product wasn't as great as you were telling me after all?"

Hey listen, we must all continue to improve our lives and continue to "educate" ourselves in this area of personal development. We must all keep our minds open to new ways to do things that will make our productivity better.

BUT...

Be careful! Really examine that "thing" - the next "new and improved" that crosses your path and make sure it IS something that will actually help you on your journey toward your dreams and goals.

Could be something that might actually take you on an unprofitable detour or wrong route all together!

For those of you that have received my free report that is offered on my website (http://www.FutureYouUniversity.com ) you will find that it consists of only FIVE points.

Bottom line is this - it's really pretty basic when you break it all down. This is why I continually encourage you to not be fooled by the simplicity of some of these things.

When you take the time to study and read the materials from many different "personal development promoters" you will find them all pretty much saying the same thing. It's true! And, yes, I'm one of them!

However, we all have personal tastes as to how it impacts us and who can speak to our "hearts" and move us on to action. But, even though thoughts and ideas can be added on top of the basics, there are still some basics and I believe you find those in that free report!

I'm simply saying this - stay focused and keep moving forward toward your goals and dreams!

Many things will pop up that could distract you and get you sidetracked. Hey, many of these things can even stop you dead IN your tracks if you're not careful!

And, yes, you DO have the ability to discern - to tell the difference, to know - between them.

Keep moving, stay focused and you WILL make progress each and every day.

And, as always, remember...

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

Mike

Decisions - Part 2: Who Are YOU Listening To?

PART 2: "Who Are YOU Listening To?"

In today's podcast and blog entry I want to begin to discuss ways that ALL of us - regardless of age - can do to do better in making WISE choices and decisions. Adults are not immune to making HUGE mistakes!

Let's use this example to get started today...

You are traveling in your car and you come to a section of highway that splits off so that you have a choice of going one of two ways. What do you do? Which way do you go?

It depends on where you want to go, doesn't it? If you KNOW where it is you want to go you will KNOW which way to go!

In the same way, if you really don't care where you end up, one road is as good as the other - it really doesn't matter.

So, really, the beginning point in making the right choices is simply this:

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO?

What do you want to achieve in your life? What are your plans, hopes, dreams? Where do you want to be five years from now? You've heard all of that before, but perhaps now is the first time you've really seen the importance of thoughts like this.

You see, if it really doesn't matter to you where you end up, then ANY choice - wise or unwise - is as good as the other. However, if you KNOW where you want to go with your future then you will do better at making the RIGHT decisions that will help you get where you want to go and you will also do better at AVOIDING the WRONG decisions - or poor choices - that might take you off of your desired path.

So, what do you want for your life? You may not know EXACTLY what it is you want to accomplish in your future, but you should have some idea of what you want your future you look like. USE THIS AS YOUR MAP AND GUIDE as you travel this journey of life with it's twists and turns.

Now then, once you have taken a good look at this first, general principle that is necessary for ALL of us, then everything else you do should be an extension of it, right?

Where you want to go will also help you decide who it is that you listen to - whose voice you will hear. So, let's list it as the #1 deciding factor in making wise choices (again, the first part of this is the main foundation - it is THE starting point of all areas of your life!)...

Who Are YOU Listening To?

There are a lot of "voices" out there. There are a lot of people that are more than willing to give you "advice" on what to do with your future and, again, this for anyone at ANY age!

As you go back and look at the listing of people who made some TERRIBLE decisions from yesterday's podcast and blog you can KNOW that, with each of these situations there were those that were willingly giving "advice" or telling those involved "what to do".

Would you agree that, in those situations, those involved should NOT have listened to those voices?

Here's the deal - the best way to NOT hear those voices is to separate yourself FROM those voices!

It's just a fact of life - you will become like those that you surround yourself with. It's true! Regardless of how strong you think you are or what you think your ability is to "stand above" the crowd, you will become like those your surround yourself with.

So, if you hang around a bunch of losers, guess what? YOU WILL BECOME A LOSER!

"Oh no, not me!" Those words have been spoken by many a person headed for failure.

If you hang around people that make poor decisions - STUPID decisions - what do you think you will do?

You see, if you KNOW where you want to go with your life then you will also choose carefully those that you "travel" with along the way! Think about that!

Those that have NO DIRECTION in their life will try to persuade you to do the same and be the same. They DO NOT LIKE for anyone to have that kind of focus in their lives and they will do all they can to bring you down to their level - THIS IS A FACT!

Remember, "Life is a CHOICE - CHOOSE WISELY!"

Our friends are some of the biggest influences in our lives - think long and hard about that and consider the friends that you spend time with on a daily basis. Now then, regardless of where you THINK you are headed - based on these friends, where ARE you headed?

This is not always an easy task. Please know that from the beginning. Making necessary breaks is a very difficult thing to do and those "friends" will not allow that to happen without a fight.

But remember: this is YOUR life and YOUR future. That being so, it is up to YOU to make wise decisions beginning with those that surround you and have influence on you.

Too, take into consideration your ability to surround yourself with positive information through blogs and podcasts like this. Consider the fact that you can associate with many great and influential people without ever actually meeting them! I never got to shake Jim Rohn's hand although I did have the opportunity to hear him speak on a few occasions. HOWEVER, I can still be influenced by his words even though he passed away this past December.

Finally, remember this. Although we are talking about your future and the importance of you making plans for your future, remember that you make progress on that journey ONE DAY AT A TIME.

Just today. That's it. YES, know where you want to go! YES, make those plans. But understand these two things:

1. What you do TODAY affects all of your tomorrows!

2. TODAY is all you have. Make wise decisions TODAY - one day at a time!

And, please know this - I am here to help you in any way that I can and so are many others. Do not hesitate to contact me at any time by sending me an e-mail at: mike@futureyouuniversity.com

And as you travel along this journey, never forget to...

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

Mike

Success Is A Journey (connect this to the affirmations)

I found it very interesting how things "work together" as I experienced this first-hand once again this morning.

I have had the January issue of "SUCCESS" magazine for over a month (yeah, they get them out to you early) and have read most of it. As a matter of fact I had it marked on page 90 of 96 pages - that's how close I was to being done reading this issue.

Now, jump to what I did this morning concerning the completion of my "7 Daily Affirmations" with the last one being, "I CAN! I WILL! I MUST!".

I had some extra time this morning and remembered to bring this January issue of "SUCCESS" with me today to try to get it finished since the February issue has already arrived.

On page 96 of this issue is an article entitled, "Success Is a Journey" from the archives. It is an excerpt from the March 1979 issue of "SUCCESS" and was written by Ben Sweetland. (I checked to see if this article was available at success.com but it isn't or I would have simply directed you there for this information).

First of all, here is a great quote that I highlighted as I read, "Here is a little understood fact: You are a success the moment you start on the road to success. Therefore, you do not have to wait until you have money in the bank or your bills all paid before you are a success. You can be a success right now."

Now, that's an awesome quote! But get this - the next heading in the article reads, "I CAN versus I WILL". (Are you kidding me???)


Here is the second paragraph under that heading:

"To be successful, you must KNOW that you can be successful. This is important - might important. In fact, it is absolutely necessary. But knowing you CAN do a thing is no indication that you WILL do it."

I have mentioned it before in some of my past studies when this has happened before. I was behind by two or three months in my reading of this magazine yet, it seemed that when I DID read a particular article, the TIMING was perfect for that article in my life!

Accident? I don't think so.

Neither do I feel that reading this article today was an accident.

Again, this article can not be found at success.com BUT if you subscribe to this magazine (even if you have read this article already) I ask that you read it in connection to what I have talked about with these daily affirmations.

You may not even believe that I didn't read the article first! But I didn't!

I continue to be amazed at such happenings in my life and wanted to share this with you.

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

Mike

Visualize It!

Visualize It!

In today's podcast and blog I want to talk about the importance of visualization - the process of visualizing (getting a visual image) your success.

Now, I understand that some people may think that this just sounds too far "out there" - but it is real and it is something that is practiced by successful people everyday in many different areas.

If you have watched athletes as they prepare to compete in an event, many times you will see them sitting with their eyes closed going through their participation in their mind. You will see this many times with those that participate in the Olympics - whether it be a diving competition or a down hill skiing competition. The athlete will "visualize" their going through the course flawlessly and with success. This is considered "normal" activity and is encouraged for success.

There is a very well known story about Walt Disney and his dream for Disney World. It was completed after his death and, on the day of it's opening, someone made the comment to Walt's wife, "I sure wish Walt could have seen this" to which she replied, "He already has!". You see, Walt Disney had already visualized what his dream would look like before it ever materialized and without even being there to see it for himself once it was completed!

If you follow along with those great leaders in the field of personal development you will hear this talked about as well. They will stress the importance of each of us visualizing - in great detail - what we will look like once we reach our goals. They encourage us to get as specific as possible and to "see" the house, the cars parked in the driveway, etc. I even want to take that a step further and I want to even take a big breath and SMELL what it's like!

This is a GREAT exercise for each of us to participate in as we move toward that goal - see it, visualize it!

However, many of us cannot quite connect the "jump" between where we are now and that image of our success. Sometimes it seems like an impossible gulf that lies between the "now" and the "then". See what I mean?

This is something that I've not seen discussed very often and I'd like to address that potential problem and offer what I believe to be a powerful solution to this possible dilemma.

Here it is:

Don't just visualize what your life will be like WHEN YOU REACH YOUR GOALS, but make sure you VISUALIZE YOUR JOURNEY ALONG THE WAY!

Set "mile markers" along the way and visualize your life as you reach those markers - and celebrate along the way as well!

Here is the example I use in today's podcast (use whatever fits your situation)...

Suppose your goal is to make $100,000 over the next 12 months. Don't just visualize what your life will look like once you've reached that goal - remember, that's a far cry from where you are right now and it may even discourage you when you see the great distance that you must go! - but break it down into smaller "markers" along the way.

Perhaps you want to set your first "mile marker" at $10,000. I believe it will be easier for us to visualize that right now - even today - rather than trying to visualize the $100,000 goal. Don't you? What will be changing? What will it feel like? What will the smile on your face look like? What will your bank account begin to look like?

IMPORTANT: Once you reach that first mile marker - CELEBRATE! Now, c'mon friend, use your head a little bit on this celebration! Don't celebrate and burn up a good chunk of that $10,000 - that would be absolutely stupid, wouldn't it? But, find a way for some sort of significant celebration and enjoy your success thus far.

Then what? Perhaps make your next "mile marker" at $20,000 then $30,000 - you get the picture. When you reach the $50,000 - the half-way mark - REALLY celebrate (but again, use some common sense). For right now, don't worry about visualizing what that will look like - set your visualization goals on the first "marker" and it will get easier to visualize these other milestones along the way!

Once you reach that half-way point, it WILL become easier for you to visualize the completion of your goal and you will likely begin to expand that goal with new numbers!

What's that old saying? "A journey of 1,000 miles begins with one step." How true it is in life and how true it is as we all make progress toward our goals and dreams!

Get excited! Visualize your first "mile marker", whatever it may be. Move! Take action! Take that step toward that first celebration and then KEEP ON MOVING toward your goals and dreams!

And, as you take steps along the way, never forget to...

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

Mike

AVOID Negativity!

"Avoid negative sources, people, places, things and habits."

We begin a journey through the alphabet with an emphasis on a word for each letter...today, that emphasis is the letter "a" and the word "AVOID".

Again, I know it is easier to say the point above than it is to live it or put it into practice, but let me also point out that it is an absolute NECESSITY for you to do so if you plan to make any progress in your life. Do you get that? A NECESSITY!

You will not "accidentally" avoid these negative things in your life - you must do so INTENTIONALLY and ON PURPOSE and WITH A PURPOSE in mind! That purpose being your progress toward your goals and dreams.

You can choose to go through your day and your life with no purpose at all - like a boat out on the water without a motor or a sail, at the mercy of the wind and the waves. Just drifting about this way and that - no real focus, goal or direction.

IS THAT REALLY HOW YOU WANT TO LIVE? I'm guessing not.

Realize the importance in your life in ALL areas of your life and regardless of what you do or who you are - this is a MUST!

Parents, by avoiding the negative in our lives we also help protect and teach our children in this area.

Listen to the podcast for added thoughts and ideas on this point.

Do it.

Act upon it.

AVOID IT.

And then move on toward your dreams and goals!

And, all along the way...

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

Mike

Get UP and GET GOING!

I shared how the following scenario really bothers me:
I pass by a hitchhiker sitting on the side of the road. Yes, sitting. Sitting on a suitcase or some sort of bundle - but sitting on the side of the road. Two or three hours later I come back by and that person is still sitting in the exact same spot...still sitting and waiting for someone to pick them up. They haven't taken one step toward their destination. They are sitting in front of a convenience store which means this is likely where they were let off by their last ride. Sitting and waiting for someone else to carry them along their journey.

Did I say that THIS DRIVES ME NUTS!!!?

As disturbing as this is to me, it is even MORE disturbing when I see people doing this with their LIVES!

Yes, maybe your life has taken a detour as we talked about in yesterday's message. Yes, maybe you've even had to change "vehicles" along the way or maybe you're not even sure if you HAVE a "vehicle" to get you where you plan to go right now.

So, what do you do?

You see, I have no problem with someone walking or hitchhiking IF that is the only way for them to get where they are going. I have even been known to pick a hitchhiker up (not often, mind you) if they looked as if they were really making an effort to move toward their destination.

And, yet, even at times I have been surprised by the response by those that I have stopped to help. I share in the podcast of one guy that, when I told him I was only going about another mile before I'd have to let him out (and this next mile was up a steep hill and it was raining at the time) was told, "THAT'S NOT FAR ENOUGH!" and he slammed the door.

Wow.

But this I can tell you - I will NEVER stop to pick someone up like I described at the start of this blog entry. Sitting. Not even attempting to make a move.

Have you given up? Are you waiting for someone else to deliver you to your planned destination? You know - goals and dreams?

Friend, if you are waiting for that - you will be greatly disappointed! NO ONE - and I repeat, NO ONE - can do that for you!

Sure, you can get some help along the way. For example, that is the purpose of this podcast and blog - to help or aid you along your journey. But I can't take you to your destination. I can help by putting some "fuel" in your "vehicle" - but I can't take you where you want to go.

Stop sitting by the side of the road WAITING for someone to do this for you. GET UP AND GET GOING!

Only you can do that. And, if need be....stick that hand out with your thumb up if you need some help. But...KEEP MOVING toward your destination and you WILL get there!

Even today. Yes, right now. Today. It begins here...

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


Mike

Life IS a Highway!

On my Facebook page I posted a video of that song - "Life Is A Highway" - very catchy tune and it gets you to tapping your toes and singing along!

But, you know, it's true! Life IS a Highway....and, that being so, there are curves and bends as well as detours and alternate routes all along the way.

You've experienced this in your own life, right? You have plans, goals and dreams and - well, look at the sign above - an UNPLANNED DETOUR comes along and changes those plans, goals and dreams.

But think about it - it really SHOULDN'T change the plans, goals and dreams. It shouldn't CHANGE them but it will take you along a different path, road or highway. If you stick to your original intentions of reaching your destination!

For example, I made some very SPECIFIC plans for 2009. We are now in the last quarter of the year and there are some of those plans that I know that I will not reach and goals that will not be accomplished. So, what do I do? Give up? Sit by the side of the road and hang my head?

NO!

The journey to that destination is just going to take a little longer, but I'm enjoying the ride! I am still focused on my destination - where I want/plan to go - but I've just had to take an alternate route along the way.

I was talking to a friend of mine the other day about a motorcycle ride he went on with another guy for the first time. He didn't really know this other guy, but was invited to go on a ride with him, so he did. He told me that this guy's focus on riding was to go through the curves as fast as he could and getting to the destination as fast as possible. My friend asked him, "Did you see that flock of turkeys in that meadow back there?" Response, "No." Another question, "Did you see those deer on the side of the road a ways back?" Response, "No."

You see, they BOTH got to the same destination. They both arrived. However, one got their with his head down and the determination to get there as fast as possible while the other enjoyed the journey along the way!

Yes, there are people that set their goals and zoom toward them at break-neck speed and actually reach them. However, I have known some (not all) of these people to do so only to look around and realize that they had left their family and other people and/or things that were important to them "in their dust".

Hey, I'm taking a different route than I had planned, but I am enjoying the journey. I may even be traveling in a different "vehicle" than I was when I began the journey --- but I will still reach my destination.

See what I mean?

Whatever you do - don't allow the roadblocks and detours keep you from continuing your journey! Keep moving toward your destination and you WILL reach it, my friend!

Isn't that awesome? It's up to you! No one else can force you! Only YOU can make that move.

So, get in the car, buckle up and get ready for the ride because "life IS a highway"!

And, be sure to remember this:

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

Mike

YOUR Amazing Race!

Wow, I'm "pumped"! As you know, my wife and I attended the "Success Symposium" in Dallas this past Saturday and - IT WAS AWESOME!
I'll be sharing a lot of good stuff from that over the next several days and likely weeks!

It was also great to meet Angie Strader (http://www.theworldneedsmorehappy.com/) and her husband, Tommy while we were there. Great people! I had the chance to do an interview with Angie during lunch and I will have that up on a future podcast very soon.

Last night (Sunday) as I was preparing thoughts for my podcast, I was watching the last half hour or so of "The Amazing Race" and it just hit me....WE are all involved in our own "amazing race"! So, I "scratched" what I thought I wanted to talk about and went with this idea. And, I must say, if you listen to that podcast and can't tell I'm pumped then you might need to check your hearing! ;)

Listen friend, we ARE all involved in this race - this JOURNEY - are we not? Every day, good and/or bad, is part of this race/journey that takes place before us each and every day. Here's the kicker - WHAT WILL YOU DO in YOUR race?

Yup, you'll hear me say it again - IT'S YOUR CHOICE!

Some of you may still be sitting on the sidelines and....
- stretching...preparing to enter the race (how long are you going to stretch?)
- wondering if you should enter the race (hello? it's YOUR race, remember?)
- dreading the race and the pain that might come with it (a life without some pain does not exist...those that have no pain are no longer with us!)
- watching....you can't run a race from the sidelines - GET IN THE RACE!
- comparing yourself to other participants -- you are YOU and it's YOUR race!

No one else can run it for you! No one else is you - YOU live and participate in YOUR race in YOUR world. But whatever you do - DO IT! (Why not now? - remember?)

It's AWESOME to experience life. Yes, even the "bad" or "down" times help us to know that we are alive!

So, get off the sidelines and enter YOUR race.
When you "hit the wall" - keep going!
Remember, all races are done the same way - ONE STEP AT A TIME.

Here's to YOUR AMAZING RACE!

And....
"Make it an AWESOME day (and race) - Who else is going to do it for you?"

Mike Spillman