Showing posts with label blogging. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blogging. Show all posts

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Life is Too Short!


Back when I first started blogging, I recall an instance where someone questioned my credibility as a writer. The comment was: “What makes you an expert on anything?
At first I was crushed. Then I realized I had either hit a nerve with someone or maybe they were jealous.
It’s easy to critique someone.
I don’t have 3 college degrees or permission from an old school newspaper. What makes me an “expert” is I have a passion for what I do and make a significant difference in people’s lives.
People have basic needs. What’s more important than providing to that demand?
Don’t let bullies stand in your road of progress. We normally refer to those people as “bosses” in the workplace.
Be your own boss.
Rely on yourself and take advantage of the resources available.
Start something. Don’t waste another day.
Life is too short to not 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
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.

Saturday, March 2, 2013

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
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.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

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
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

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

My Top 5 Blog Posts




My Top 5 Blog Posts







        *The Strategic Plan
*= tied.
I was thrilled to see my tribute to my friend, Billy Atkins rise to the top of my viewer response. This posting has the most comments I’ve ever received on one post. Awesome!
The tie of the two blogs at position of #5 is interesting as well.
Thank you for following The Rust Belt Chronicles. Your support is something meaningful that matters to 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
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.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

I've Got Some New Momentum!





 
Neal Morse, along with Mike PortnoyRandy George and band coincidently sum up my feelings in the new DVD release- Live MomentumOrder a copy or two today!

February is a month of beginnings, endings, changes and new momentum.

I am going to appear on Caroline Gavin’s podcast show on Blog Talk Radio, Purposeful Pathway on February 27. I am looking forward to chatting with Caroline and honored to be her guest. The show airs at 1:00 pm and if you miss it “live” you can catch it here.
If everything goes as planned, my blog will be moving to its new home on the web. It will be less restrictive on content and it will be interesting to see the results. I will let you know prior to the switch so I don’t lose you!
The possibility still exists to create an expanded type of format being web-based, providing I can line-up a few contributors and sponsors. Why not? The basis for the idea is doable, so it might or might not work.
I retired last Friday from the organization that eliminated my position after nearly 32 years as an employee. That feels great and it makes moving forward with a plan more intriguing. I am so excited to be out of that quagmire of fear and upheaval! It truly is a blessing.
I’ve started my second book and several people have offered suggestions for the title. Unfortunately, I already have a working title in mind and I am unable to announce it at this point. If the book doesn’t require lots of interviews and at a slow pace of 2,000 words-per-day; it’s possible to have the book written in a month. Stay tuned!
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
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.

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Living on the Edge of Freedom?


“Are you paralyzed with fear? That’s a good sign. Fear is good. Like self-doubt, fear is an indicator. Fear tells us what we have to do. Remember one rule of thumb: the more scared we are of a work or calling, the more sure we can be that we have to do it.”
Steven Pressfield, The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks & Win Your Inner Creative Battles


For some reason about a week a week ago, I realized by blogging was suffering. Sometimes it was due to rushing to post an article and tossing some ideas out to quickly. I took a few days off from blogging hoping my writing process would become fresh again. After all, attempting to post material daily isn’t as easy as it appears.
After I wrote another blog, I still wasn’t satisfied. Then it hit me. It’s tough to describe, but once you become accustomed to holding back and censoring your own thoughts; it tends to become a habit. It hinders you from your doing best work.
Once I realized the problem (fear), I experimented by writing a blog without fear of retribution. I was stunned by how powerful my posts became instantly. It turns out this stifling style affected my writing for some time. I hadn’t felt this much writing energy since my first book.
Part of the problem was listening to other people’s advice: “You better watch out” or “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” No you wouldn’t, you sell yourself short daily by not taking chances. You’ll complain, cry or through a temper tantrum, but you will never stand-up for yourself or others.
Besides, freedom of speech is a guaranteed right of our Constitution. If we can’t or won’t express ourselves is it any wonder that tyranny has become the norm?
While some people mean well by believing they’re offering “time tested advice” the truth is the advice originated from the Industrial Age mindset of “Don’t rock the boat”, “Keep your mouth shut” and my favorite- “Just do your job.” Those words of wisdom worked for 100 years in a system built upon conformity and compliance. In today’s new connection economy, we need to do the exact opposite of yesteryear.
Following my own advice, I was picked by Bloggers.com as one of the ‘Editors Pick of the Day’ out of thousands of bloggers. That little reward gave me the extra edge and confidence to open up my writing and write more effectively. I was asked to post a guest blog and by allowing my own blogs to resonate without hesitation my audience has increased some days by 25%. Kicking my fears out the door is making a difference.
If you want to find your edge, start dealing with your own state of denial. What holds you back from becoming a warrior and doing your best work? Discover the reason why you hesitate and confront it head-on. Lock that little monkey out of your head.
We only get one life here on earth and it passes quickly. Don’t sell yourself short and spend your time ‘just getting by.’ Life is too precious to waste your strengths, time and energy seeking mediocrity. Worse yet, you may never know your true calling!
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
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.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Why Blog?





I started to blog after realizing the power of networking with others through social media. I figured it could benefit my forthcoming book sales and it was fun. I soon discovered blogging was therapeutic and perhaps I could inspire someone, somewhere. I had no idea what it could lead to at the time.

Blogging has given me the confidence to express my thoughts, feelings and life. It has allowed me to enter a theater of new friends and re-unite old friendships. I’ve been fortunate to have established professional relationships with other writers. The short-term benefits have been fantastic and the long-term unknown and exciting.
I didn’t ask permission or wait to be chosen. I took the initiative because I must. It is my destiny, future and the only way to make an impact. It’s what I do best with conviction and passion. My vehicle, voice and decision to be all- I can be.
It’s what I look forward to every day. The opportunity to reach-out to other people and make a difference is special. Whether my blog is a rant, review or interview, it’s something I am proud to share with you. Not everyone will agree with my view, but that’s ok.
I am here to open your eyes to a better way, explore some possibilities and distinguish right from wrong. I explain what makes some things tick and why they’re good or bad. Other times, I build people up or call a duck, a duck. It’s who I am.
My blog is despised by some and a blessing for others. I write about what some only whisper, speak in hushed tones or are too fearful to confront. Writing often inspires me to conquer fear and bring the truth to light. This mission is what I stand for and is responsible for inspiring my audience.
I approach writing stories like a child first seeing the Christmas gifts under the tree. Hopefully, my words, stories and insight will resonate with you as much. At the very least, my wish is to do “something meaningful that matters” for you!
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
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.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

You are Amazing!




Earlier this week, I was surprised to see Seth Godin had provided a link within one of his blogs of his latest book reviews of The Icarus Deception: How High Will You Fly at Amazon.com. My review was displayed on the last page of reviews. It’s pretty cool to be considered an early adopter of tribe followers of his new book releases.

So thank you Seth for writing an amazing book and helping to make what I do relevant to others!
Less than 24 hours ago, I opened my email and thought “What is going on?” As my Grandfather use to say, “Lo’ and Behold” – I had 4 pages of Hotmail from members of bloggers.com addressed in my inbox. My first thoughts were perhaps my settings had somehow changed and I accidently opened myself to spam.
I went back to read the first email received and discovered I had been picked by the Editors and voters of Bloggers.com as 1 of 3 Editors Picks of the Day. Those four pages of email were people congratulating me, letting me know they voted, are following me, tweeted or wanting to friend me. I am overwhelmed.

 Earlier in the week, I was thinking it had been awhile since I have been chosen for “blogger of the week” or day within the forums I post. It’s funny, my seventh sense kicked in and I failed to recognize it.  
Wow, pretty unexpected and impressive out of thousands of bloggers throughout the world to have been chosen for this honor! It would be impossible to thank everyone, so I am hoping you (everyone) will accept this blog as my opportunity to truly thank all of you.
Your kind act of generosity is something I will never forget. The inspiration knowing what I do matters too many is all I can hope or ask for. You have touched my soul and confirmed my belief that one voice can reach a vast sea of people and make a difference. More importunately, having you with me on our journey inspires me to do- something meaningful that matters!
Thank you- from the bottom of my heart, you are amazing.
 I want to wish each and every one of you a successful journey with your dreams, writing, business and life!

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
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.

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Book Review: The Impact Equation by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith


 
Social Media expert and Blogger, Chris Brogan has been instrumental in my journey to become a blogger. His book, Social Media 101, not only gave me valuable insight it armed me with the education, passion and courage to enter the digital age. Naturally, I was looking forward to his next best-selling release, Trust Agents, co-authored with Julien Smith (another media expert in podcasting). Unfortunately, Trust Agents, left me puzzled somewhat, compared to Social Media 101.
Chris Brogan and Julien Smith have released a new book entitled: The Impact Equation: are you making things happen or just making noise? I am happy to report “The Impact Equation” is an insightful and useful book, written with strong advice and powerful tips.
The social media experts champion the premise that anyone can become a social media expert and owner without seeking permission or being rich. That’s right, for the first time in the history of civilization, you, me; anyone can partake, create and own our own channel. Scary isn’t it.  We can be a voice and make an impact in the world.
Chris and Julien use a simple formula for the principle of this success called CREATE.
C*(R+E+A+T+E) = Contrast is multiplied by reach (R), exposure (E), articulation (A), trust (T), echo (E). The CREATE formula can be applied to make an impact in regards to anything you do.
The Impact Equation also focuses on real examples to breakdown how we can make an impact. Just a few of the many topics covered are:

·        Recognizing good ideas from bad ideas.

·        The importance of goals.

·        The power of a sturdy platform.

·        Stop thinking like an employee.

·        Building a network based on trust from people who care.

·        Discovering your core message.

·        The human element.
 
The Impact Equation is about building an online tribe, offering added value, and how to maximize your chance of success. Chris and Julien suggest giving away their book to others when you are finished studying the book. This is another way to spread their ideas and create a loyal tribe of followers towards you.
Near the final chapter, Chris and Julien actually take time to explain their thoughts on their former book, Trust Agents and how it could have been more explicit in hindsight. That takes guts.
If you have an interest in creating your own media channel and have a desire to make your own impact, you must take the time to read: The Impact Equation by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith.
The Impact Equation is the best equation never taught in school!
So purchase a copy today, read it several times, study the formulas and advice, then give it away to share with someone else.

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


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.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Moving from Blogger to WordPress?

Photo courtesy: Search Engine People Blog.
The last couple of days, I've spent considerable time researching WordPress using Genesis Framework's custom themes. Since I am currently using Blogger, the move to WordPress is somewhat intimidating involving the transferring of my old blogs to WordPress platform.

The new web hosting service had me change the name server addresses to theirs and unfortunately the wait time is 2 to 48 hours to propagate. So I am in holding status and can't continue until my domain name appears at HostGator.

I spent the last day or so, researching the web on moving from Blogger to WordPress. During that time, I've considered canning the process entirely- a half-dozen times. Too many questions and it seems I keep coming up with more questions, once each previous question is resolved.

Blogger and WP doesn't cross communicate easily due to different formats so this becomes a large problem. Copying and pasting my blogs from Blogger to WordPress isn't an option I choose. There are many tutorials through YouTube and articles, however; a majority are outdated or assume the end-user is familiar with knowing where to perform the steps.

 Backing up your code from Blogger is imperative before you begin the process and not having anyone to  rely on for help if something fails doesn't make me breathe easier. It appears you must retain your old Blogger site or risk losing the old blog photos. Another option is to manually reload your old photos into WordPress, but that is too time consuming with nearly 100 old blogs.

Loss of Google page rankings has my concern as well.

It would be far easier to outsource the conversion, but it appears to be expensive and I haven't found many sources.

Then while writing this blog, I stumbled across this link. Problem solved? Pretty cool-eh?

 I realized "the lizard brain" (fear) had invaded my thinking. It's easier to stay on Blogger. It's less challenging to learn how to navigate a new software format.We are not accustomed to having to  wait for results. We want it done now.

 I must look at each step as a slow process. Rome wasn't built in a day and anything worth doing correct- takes time. WordPress, StudioPress and Genesis have some really cool plugins and themes, so it's just a matter of  learning some new techniques and navigational tools.

So for me this will be a side-project. No reason to stop the world until it happens or obsess. Just go with the flow and make the transition smooth.  Do the necessary researching, finding sources to answer questions as needed, forget the fear factor and pull the trigger when the time is right.

Anything less is not an option!
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

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.
 

Friday, August 17, 2012

The Blog heard 'round the World!


I have a passion for writing. I don’t have to depend on anyone but myself. If I don’t like what I’ve written I can use the backspace key to delete it. I don’t need anyone’s approval or disapproval. My life is that simple.
Photo by: Search Engine People Blog.
My stories can be inspiring or merely average. The subject can be anything I choose or something simply to motivate others. The time it takes me to write a story or blog can range from minutes, hours, or days.
Sometimes one blog can be broken down to two or three different stories. I know it’s time to write a book when my creative writing reaches this threshold.
This is one of the advantages of writing nearly 300 blogs. A writer tends to improve by repetition. The journey begins when you decide to write.
My Rust Belt Chronicles Blog is currently being read throughout the USA, Russia, Germany, South America, France, Netherlands and Latvia. Despite losing my local newspaper as a source of a third of my readership for August is on a trend to top July’s statistics. The power of the Internet is truly amazing.
Photo by: Woodleywonderworks



To be able to address people throughout the globe is an incredible experience. I am grateful to all my readers for allowing me a chance to present my views and be a small part of your day!
 Life gives us the opportunity to do something special or unique.
Each day is another chance to turn your dream into reality.
Thank you for following: The Rust Belt Chronicles.
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 3rd 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.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Something Meaningful, that Matters!


Something that I’ve found strange since I became an author, blogger and writer has bothered me for awhile.

I’ve noticed when the momentum of doing one action causes other reactions. Sometimes those “reactions” are choices. The publicity of doing one thing signifies public awareness and all of a sudden different offers seemingly cross your path. Those options are a result of the Law of Attraction.

The problem arises when opportunities do not align with your steps to success or your business plan. Those events can lead to what I term: “The Law of Detraction.”

In the last couple of years, I took on several added responsibilities that didn’t align with my plans. I chalked it up to gaining experience. Then you realize everyone isn’t on the same trail. The result is a pending train wreck. 

By accepting those kinds of proposals you are allowing others and yourself to interfere and derail your original focus. Once you direct all your energy towards the new goal, the main reason for your success stops.

A majority of people fielding offers don’t necessarily do so, to hurt you. But, some of them do so in an attempt to inadvertently control your output, feed their own ego or ride your coat tail.

Once the dust clears you realized you have lost all of your previous momentum, some time ago. Relationships are ruined and the path you once walked easily is cluttered with uncertainty.

We are only human and can only accomplish so much at one given time. We don’t posses magical powers or have the ability to turn something into success by merely being involved, signing on, or showing up.

My lizard brain (survival mode) has been in control. The resistance (FEAR) to do my best work has gotten in the way, far too long. This is how we sabotage ourselves.

My work during the day is performed best in solitude. At night, I write alone until the wee hours of the morning. The challenge is between me and my inner self. I like to have the option to control the outcome without interruption or noise. If I fail, I only have myself to blame. If I succeed, I have an audience to thank!

Never take your mind off your goal. Never let anyone deter your plan or stop you.

When you are doing something you love, don’t abandon it. Press on.

Persistence must be your strongest asset.

It's only then you will realize- you are 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