Don't Let this Be You!

Dan Miller must have read my mind. What perfect timing to read his blog.

As some of you know, I was recently laid-off by the organization I gave nearly 32 years of my life too. I am 56 years-old and between my age, health and spending years in a job that wasn’t advancing my skills towards modern techniques with asset management and purchasing, I basically became a master of nothing.

Rule #1

Never stay in a position that prevents you from growing or expanding your skills.

So as I awoke today, I began thinking about how or what I am actually going to do next. I love blogging, but; it doesn’t pay the bills. A lifetime of accumulating debt isn’t helping matters.

Rule #2

Avoid using credit cards at all costs.

So realistically, where does this leave me? I don’t see myself making the money I made prior to being laid-off. I certainly couldn’t work two jobs that require much physical exertion to make ends meet.

Rule #3

Think outside the box.

I have no desire to go back to cubicle nation, college or stand in-line with everyone else. Been there, done that.

No, it’s time to make a ruckus. Start my own business and see what happens. It’s time to make mistakes, learn and be creative. Some ideas may work, some won’t.

Rule #4

Do something!

When we get hit with a dramatic circumstance we either find a way around the obstacle or let it keep us paralyzed. Creating limitations for ourselves keeps us from moving forward. We become our own worst enemy and ensure our reliance on someone else’s decisions. That’s not the best place to be.

We have been conditioned to seek permission whether it’s through being hired by someone else or dependent on the government.

Rule #5

Don’t let this be you.

So today, I decided to take a new direction and forge my own path, that doesn’t rely on a boss, system or a CEO. The journey begins with me.

I will unveil one of my new businesses soon. In the meantime, I have a lot of work to do. I want to thank Dan Miller for his timely post.

My blog is moving to a new self-hosted site soon and I am looking forward to doing something meaningful that matters!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Are You Making a Difference?

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One of the topics we discussed on Caroline Gavin’s podcast was the importance of doing something meaningful. We spoke  about the fact opportunities exist all around us. We need to look outside ourselves and realize we can make a difference in the world.

Too often, we become caught-up in the immediate responsibilities of our daily lives and fail to see the very needs of others.

When was the last time you actually sat down and took an inventory of where you are and what you are doing?

Maybe it’s time.

Jeff Goins looked past himself and found a world that wrecked his life. Justin Lucasavige recently quit a start-up venture to focus on something far more touching in people’s lives. These folks decided to make a difference. You can too.

There is a need for every one of us to find a purpose in our lives. Mine won’t be spent in a cubicle living for the next paycheck, waiting for someone’s approval or fighting to keep from being "thrown off the island."

Every one of us knows what the problems are; but few take the chance to stand-up and care. We were taught to fit-in, don’t rock the boat and comply. It’s risky to take a stand, put your faith on the line. After all; what if we fail?

But doing something meaningful isn’t about failing, it’s about bravery, being rock solid in our faith and committed to making a difference.

That’s not asking a lot.

So it’s time to put our words into action. We need to wear our heart on our sleeves. The effort to do something remarkable is waiting for you and me. We’ve wasted years focusing on our own wants, needs and desires.

Ironically those “things” didn’t satisfy our thirst.

I referred to myself the other day on Caroline’s show as the “Roy Roger’s of bloggers.” That is part of my quest, to take a stand against those who attempt to keep us as “slaves to their system.” The subject doesn’t matter. Being heard certainly matters.

Being the “good guy in the white hat” is only the beginning of my journey. Greater opportunities are in store for me. That’s the exciting part of my venture.

Isn’t it time for you to make a difference?

So, let’s saddle-up and ride.

Who’s with me?

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

A Purposeful Thanks!

Yesterday, started out as a great day. I was fortunate to be a guest on Caroline Gavin’s podcast- PurposefulPathwayRADIO.com. Being featured on a online radio broadcast was exciting and a new experience. I must admit I was nervous prior to the event, but; Caroline had a calming demeanor and I believe the prayer she led prior to the show helped calm my nerves.

If you’re interested in listening to the taped show you may catch it here!

I want to publicly thank Caroline for her graciousness, professional skills and kindness. The ministry she provides is truly “something meaningful that matters!” I highly recommend her ministry to all.

God Bless you and your ministry!

Until We Meet Again,
Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School“Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

 

Focusing on Yourself?

*   I want to thank  Caroline Gavin for graciously allowing me to be a guest on her podcast show- BlogTalk Radio, Purposeful Pathway on February 27th. I  enjoyed our chat and look forward to speaking with you again!
You may replay the show here.

I often write about doing something meaningful that matters. Sometimes it’s about making a connection, rescuing a life or just helping someone out. Many times it’s about treating people with respect and dignity or just providing inspiration. It should be easy to look around and see scores of people in need of help.

But lately I hit a wall. For some reason, I had absolutely nothing to write about. I understand writers block and have always managed to write my way out of the funk. But this time things were different.

Last night it hit me. My life has changed dramatically after being laid-off a month ago. No more days at work witnessing the daily grind of usual nonsense and being instantly inspired by the next blog topic to address. Am I going through some sort-of post work depression or has it just finally hit me I am not going back to that former life of nearly 32 years?

Why do I feel such a deep sense of aloneness? Perhaps I suffered a mini-stroke in my sleep and the writing side of my brain is not functioning properly? Years ago, I gave up alcohol and drugs and attempted to fill the void with a job. Yes sir, I would make something of myself.

People liked me; I was young and thought if I bought into the corporate package it would lead me to where I belonged. Over the years, I slowly saw the corporate dream dissipate. I discovered “doing the right thing” didn’t matter to those people. Never mind your conscience, it’s all about the latest fad, slogan or mantra.

Phooey!

I realized I was just a “cog for the system” which opened the door and led me to think otherwise. That’s the day I became wide-awake. There was no turning back.

Once you realize you are unable to make an impact you’re spinning your wheels and headed nowhere. So I took the supposed “safe” route and laid-low to maintain my job, until one day the system recognized my age, blogging and supporting my wife’s unemployment hearing wasn’t in their best interests. Thus, conveniently my job was eliminated too.

Hugh MacLeod says everyone needs an “evil plan.” Well not really “evil” in the true sense of the word; just to the point of jumping out of the insanity of living paycheck to paycheck to survive into the position of doing something that really matters. My former employer made that dream a reality for me.

So maybe I’ve been feeling sorry for myself. I finally have the freedom to negotiate my own future; to do what I choose to do. How many people get to go live their dream? When you focus on yourself your world shrinks.

I also realized I have the perfect storm for writing, making decisions on what ventures to pursue and certainly the time it requires to make things happen. Creativity is best served with the least amount of distractions. For a writer, the quiet time of peace is a blessing. What more could I ask in order to do something meaningful that matters?

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.be speaking

Making Connections?

Reminder: I will be speaking on Caroline Gavin’s podcast show on BlogTalk Radio, Purposeful Pathway on February 27th. I am looking forward to chatting with Caroline and honored to be her guest. The show airs at 1:00 pm on Wednesday and if you miss it “live” you can catch it here.

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It seems we share a common problem with other bloggers, business owners and organizations. In order to succeed you must connect with people. It doesn’t matter what you’re selling, pitching or want to become. Until you have built a loyal following, nobody really notices your efforts.

Connections are the new economy. Most of our shopping is done online through companies we’ve come to trust. Twenty years ago, we would’ve had second thoughts about trusting anyone online with our credit card information. Today, it’s a common practice.

In today’s economy connections are everything. Whether it’s customers or employees our ability to connect is what builds trusting relationships. It’s not about you or me. It’s about others.

Most CEO’s, presidents and management have a new role to fill and don’t have a clue how to win the confidence of their customers and employees in order to create a culture where everyone is connected. The top-down style of management is dead. The Industrial Age had its day and many companies that haven’t figured this out are slowly dying.

The top-down approach was always focused on the person higher –up the ladder. The CEO’s concern was keeping the board of trustees happy, the CFO was concerned about the CEO, and the supervisor was concerned about keeping their manager happy. Who cared about the employees and customers? Nobody!

During the Industrial Age the assumption was people had to have what you offered. Choices were limited. The Internet has allowed us to become a global economy. That’s why the top-down style of management totally misses the boat. That ship has sailed and is likely not coming back soon.

In the Industrial Age, it wasn’t imperative to establish a relationship; it was a matter of driving business through advertisement. The choices are so vast now, there is only one-way to survive- by building trust and connecting with those that matter most to your success. Companies are building trust through offering their services online; twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. How are going to compete?

That’s why billboard ads are useless. Nobody pays much attention to those targeted signs. If people have a connection with you they care, if not; you’re wasting money that could’ve been spent on your resources (your employees and customers). They are the one’s seeking your loyalty.

The employees and customers are the bottom line. Not your stockholders, board or mantra. You only have two choices- connect or stay disconnected.

Every day you hesitate to connect you’re losing ground. When a car is disconnected from a train it has no momentum, it’s dead on the tracks. The remaining cars are able to travel faster and gather more steam for the journey. Disconnecting is isolation.

Sitting idle on the tracks of life is no comfortable position. While some see managing without the top-down approach as a loss of power, it’s really your only chance to remain powerful and become noble.

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Fear of Failure?

 

Does fear of failure keep you from doing something meaningful?

Perhaps, it’s really fear of success. Many people are comfortable with not taking risk. After all, how would you handle success?

People believe it is safer to stay on the current road, never veering off to search for something better. Follow everyone else, listen to what they say and believe what they tell you. In the end, everyone will complain about the same issues and most people will agree with you. After the road trip, they are dejected and done.

Successful people follow the opposite road map. They gladly travel off the beaten path, searching for opportunity. They seek advice from other successful people and accept the consequences. At the end of the journey, successful people are already looking forward to the next trip with a sense of adventure and renewed enthusiasm.

Which road would you rather travel?

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Reaction Distraction

We are accustomed to many types of external distractions. Some distractions startle us, but most are common occurrences. Certain distractions may be a nuisance but few have long term effects. As human beings, we usually internalize little can be done when we encounter a distraction, so we go with the flow.     

But how do we handle internal distractions?

There is another type of distraction created by humans known as a psychological distraction. It is conveyed towards you to create a negative distraction.  Unfortunately, some people initiate this type of behavior to derail your focus and progress.  Jealousy, envy, or control may be their motive.

Regardless of the reason behind it; the importance of recognizing this mental trap and removing yourself from the equation quickly is the best solution. Nothing else matters!

When you become uncomfortable and allow yourself to be victimized, many negative situations will follow:

1.   Lose vision of your goals.

2.   Forces you into a defensive mode.

3.   Creates increased stress.

4.   Prohibits your sight of clear thinking and options.

5.   Leads to a higher rate of mistakes.

6.   Creates a vicious cycle and allows the perpetrator to further their manipulation.
 

By recognizing this event as a psychological distraction, you will be able to:

1.   Focus on your goals and what is really important in your life. 

2.   Avoid toxic situations in the future.

3.   Reduce stress factors in your life.

4.   Understand the situation clearly and that it is only a symptom.

5.   Ask yourself - Will this situation or conversation REALLY matter 5 years from now?
 

Allow yourself a short celebration for recognizing your internal victory’s using these methods. It will become easier to master each time you are confronted.

Eventually, you will find yourself in less of these situations and not be personally drawn into the moment. You may actually learn to feel sorry for the individual displaying this type of behavior towards you. It is as if you are on the outside looking in. But most importantly you will realize-you do have control!
 

Reacting to a distraction is not a solution.
 

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.