Writer's Block- How to Breakthrough the Obstacles

The last couple of evenings, I’ve had a bit of writer's block. The inspiration to introduce an idea, story or adventure wasn’t within my mind. Lately, I’ve not been over-flowing with multiple thoughts and have been pulling recent blogs out of the thin air. But for two days my mind produced nothing. Frustration at its finest moment!

Why Me?

Perhaps it’s exhaustion from several years of burning the candle at both ends. Maybe I haven’t read enough motivating books recently. I certainly haven’t been able to surround myself with people who inspire success or think between the lines in the rust belt. Whatever the reason(s) it is a common occurrence among writers.

Last night, I decided to take the time and make the situation a positive experience.

How I Beat the Block

I took advantage of the situation by catching up on my responses to people who commented on my blogs, researched the subject of writer's block, stumbled across some thought provoking ideas and realized I have a great success story to share, right under my nose.

When a writer begins to suffer from writer’s block, the mindset slowly shifts from focusing on others to focusing on self. The soul searching experience locks you in a series of self-centered thoughts or emotions. My former tendencies often help provide insight for the psychological condition at hand. Recognizing the problem is the first step in changing the outcome.

So instead of having another unproductive frustrating evening, I broke through the chains to unleash new ideas and possibilities.

What I Discovered

Photo courtesy of: Sami Stoner.

 

The most meaningful take-away was to realize- I have the opportunity and duty to unveil the sweetest success story to ever grace our area. The young courageous lady I hope to interview is currently undergoing a tough schedule between school events and a television taping with ESPN. I hope to bring you her amazing story soon, as her time permits.

Sami Stoner and her guide dog, Chloe's latest inspiring story will be featured on ESPN on Tuesday, October 16th at 7 pm. (Eastern Standard Time). Please don't miss this incredible story of success!

Tips for Writer's Block

The next time you suffer from writer's block:

·        Use the time constructively.

·        Forget about your frustration.

·        View the time as a period of tying up loose-ends.

·        Immerse yourself in focusing on others.

I promise you, the little treasures you will encounter will not only bust through writer's block, you’ll be back at warp speed writing about something meaningful that matters!

I’d love to see your input and comments on this story.

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.

Checkout Anytime you Like, But you Can Never Leave

In one of Seth Godin’s recent blogs, I was inspired by several notions and wisdom.

Some valuable lessons from Seth’s blog:

·         Associate closely with those who emphasize and are experienced with productive failure.

·         Surround yourself with those who are motivated to make a difference daily.

·         Breakthroughs throughout history (music, software, athletics) are geographically located by attracting tribes of followers.

·         Relocate if you must, in order to join the tribe and become part of the creativity.

You can Checkout Anytime you Like, But you Can Never Leave

Living in the rust belt isn’t a place where ideas are flowing. The mindset is often discouraging and anti-productive. Consequently, it’s tough seeking out others with the same ambitions, goals and desires. Our local community is full of people who have experienced failure. The problem is few understand the greatness accumulated from productive failure.

Same Old Story

Many people in the rust belt have followed the status quo all of their work life only to be laid-off or shuttered from the industrial age.  Lacking other skills and every ounce of confidence shattered by the belief in a system that by being compliant ensured their success (until someone, somewhere else, could perform the duties cheaper). The low self-esteem, depression, shame and prevailing attitudes prevent those folks from moving on.  Creativity stripped from their souls.

Heart of Gold  

We have people within the community who want to make a difference. Many churches, organizations and people with huge hearts have donated selflessly their time, money and energy. But we need more.

We need people who can break down barriers and actually solve social issues. Instead of wasting funding (because we’ve have always done it this way). We need new ideas to promote prosperity verses a lifetime of dependency through aid and charity. We need to teach those in poverty the skills necessary to provide a plan to change their life. Only then, we will see dramatic results.

Where the Action Is

When I think of geographical breakthroughs music most often comes to mind. Prevailing musical styles and trends have always been a source of crowd sourcing and formation of human tribes. New Orleans (jazz), Nashville (country music), Seattle (Grunge), England (The Beatles) easily come to mind. It’s no accident software start-ups were created in certain parts of the USA.

Many of the most unique writers, financial experts and life coaches  are all located near Nashville Tennessee. Dave Ramsey, Jon Acuff, Michael Hyatt, Dan Miller and a host of other folks reside near Nashville.

One of my former classmates, Terri Lynn Weaver (who I played in a rock band with), is the first female State Representative within the State of Tennessee. Prior to her political achievement, Terri recorded a #1 Christian hit record and won a Dove Award. She is one of the sweetest and genuine people you could ever meet. Well done-Terri!

 

Former Cleveland native, drummer, Jimmy Clark and his beautiful wife are involved in the Nashville music scene and are great people! Jimmy has worked tours with Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Taylor Swift and Van Halen, along with many other big names in the music scene, through his Nashville connections. There really aren’t many recording artists in Nashville, Jimmy hasn’t toured with or provided the backbeat for during his career.

Coincidence? I think not. It seems personality, wealth and success have a common factor just like fashion, music, software, architecture and cuisine- the act of creativity has its own geographical reaction.

Easy Livin’?

I’ve definitely got Nashville on my mind for a future location to live.  Surrounding ourselves with people thriving on ideas, creativity, and success is exciting, motivating and stimulating!

People will flock in droves to the latest trend or the next “big thing.”

When will a breakthrough occur in the rust belt?

Who will lead us from the rust belt to the success belt?

Somehow, I believe Seth Godin has better wisdom.

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.

One Powerful Little Lesson!

Years ago, my sponsor suggested I do something positive towards someone else’s life. He asked that I perform this feat at least three times daily and if the person found out about the deed, the attempt did not count.

The point of the exercise served to:

·        Avoid selfish thinking by focusing on others.

·        Become selfless, by helping others.

·        See the people, situations and the world in a different light.

·        Understand how lucky we are and grateful we should be.

·        Realize the power we have in making a difference in someone’s life.

·        Give me something to do in my free time to prevent boredom.

·        Replace bad habits with positive results.

At the time, I didn’t realize the full potential of trying this experiment (probably since I was too selfishly focused on my own needs). The idea sounded neat and it has been a “special tip” that I’ve managed to carry throughout my life.

I love using this technique on total strangers. I sometimes stick around to witness the look of surprise on the faces of the people affected by an act of generosity. It is beyond words to see the gratitude on their faces (and not knowing who to thank).

Several years ago, I was in a hospital cafeteria and a grieving family came into the room to purchase a meal. It was clear someone in their family had just passed away. The family were sobbing and weeping profusely . They could barely hold onto their trays and frankly, the family did not appear to be financially blessed. I felt so bad for this woman and her children.

I felt moved to do something.  

I carefully drifted over to the cashier and subtly asked her to put the entire amount of the family’s bill onto my tab. I walked out of the cafeteria at least feeling a little better for that family. It was all I could do.

Months later, someone in management mentioned witnessing the event that day, but didn’t know my name. It was nice to hear (through my wife) how this grieving family was taken by surprise in their time of sorrow and how my act momentarily lifted their spirits.

 

You see, it doesn’t take three business degrees, a fancy title or a millionaire in order to make a difference in someone's life.

It only requires our focus to change a moment in someone’s life and leave an unforgettable impression.

That one powerful little lesson Brad asked me to follow thirty years ago is still reaping rewards.

Thank you- Brad (wherever you are)!

When was the last time you secretly helped someone?

Try it- It’s worth it!

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.

 

Boom Town to Doomed Town?

A long time ago Mansfield, Ohio was a booming mega-factory city. Now it is represented with boarded-up, graffiti riddled houses and decay. While driving near the downtown area, you often discover houses hidden behind overgrown weeds, shrubbery and trees.  



The former:Westinghouse World Headquarters (see website header for current photo)

It’s been said during its heyday you could quit one good paying factory job and be hired at another- all in the same day. Not anymore.

Healthcare appears to be the best paying income in town with fast-food jobs being the most widely available. Consequently, it’s not unusual for folks to work two or three different jobs to stay afloat.

Mansfield has many people unemployed. Drugs have overtaken some neighborhoods to the point of no return. Welfare recipients and people on disability are the norm here. Arson is  nearly the front-page daily news. Not a pretty picture!

We didn’t reach this level of instability overnight; no it took several decades of erosion to get to where we are today.

Diversity and Leadership?

Some might say we lack diversity. Others say we failed to attract new business or lacked planning for the future. I would agree with all of those assumptions.

Our leaders failed to lead. Instead, the core players spent years locking-out other businesses from becoming competition. If the “good ole boys club” couldn’t control it or make money off it, the business wasn’t welcome.

It’s impossible to diversify without competition. The focus was never on where we we’re going. Greed was all that mattered. Consequently, when the existing businesses changed or dissolved; another hole was left in the void.

Help is On the Way?

 

Several years ago, a community of business people formed an organization to attract outside interest and bring new businesses into our area. I became suspicious when I noticed many of the members were from the same groups of people who for decades were related business owners and charter members of the “good ole boys club.”

I was hoping Mansfield was going to make a serious effort to plan and attract new businesses. Then it was announced the organization was going to focus on improving existing business, first. What a surprise, some things never change!

Our Only Plan?

The only new proposal that I am aware of is attracting warehousing business since we’re located halfway between Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio with an airport and railroad nearby. Empty buildings and warehouse facilities are numerous. Unfortunately, most of these buildings are owned by the club members. Great idea, if you’re looking for a fleece (I meant lease).

Photo by: THart2009

Mean Town

I’ve had members of city council tell me they wouldn’t open a business in downtown Mansfield. The fear of crime and lack of people downtown ensures this attitude. People don’t have money to spend and that does make it tough on entrepreneurs or possible small business start-ups. The existing business owners must have a courageous heart of steel and I respect their resolve.

What We Need!

Perhaps no city has a greater need to grow and prosper. We lack so many options, and choices. Mansfield, Ohio has so many needs to be filled, yet the opportunities are scarce. Why?

Without consumers we stagnate. We become hardened. Our dreams die. Our taxpayer base is shrinking. Decent paying jobs are part of the answer.

We need leaders that can lead.  We need young people who are passionate and have a vision about creating a future and the courage to follow through with a plan.

We must end the current gatekeepers of cronyism within politics and business.

We must create something sustainable or we will forever be nothing more than rust!

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.

Planting the Seeds of Success in Your Life?

Late at night, I usually find myself blogging. It seems to be the quietest time to write. No noise or distractions; just a laptop, Microsoft Word and myself.

Some nights when I have no idea of my blog topic, I actually write my best blogs. I am amazed at the quality of some of those posts.  Other nights, I spend hours writing a blog and the views are dismal.  My writing doesn’t mean much without your following or input.

 I don’t stay up half the night to feed my ego or to appear in an online paper, forum or to become an overnight sensation.

 I write to inspire others and remind us of our capabilities. I write to give people hope, inspiration and ideas. I instruct others in how to be successful and live their dreams. I share my growth to give back to others. I write because I care about you!

I cannot think of a better way to do something meaning that matters!

I wasted too many years being a spectator in life. Following rules, other people’s agenda and spinning my wheels thinking it would someday payoff. The truth is it was a complete waste of valuable time. The blind leading the sheep down the same path daily, never arriving at a worthy destination.

Life is too short to be driven on a one-way, dead-end street. Success doesn’t follow that course. The fuel of success starts with courage and passion. The road to success is sometimes built upon failures, learning from our mistakes to create a smooth ride by way of perseverance.

My writings may take you down a different path. I occasionally call out an injustice or explain hidden criteria. That path won’t always be comfortable or easy. You may not agree with me or like me. 

My hope- is my message plants a seed.

When the time is right- even a small seed will grow!

Are you planting the seeds of success in your 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

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.

Let the "Good Times" Roll!

Why do we always think of the “good times” in the past tense? Is there any reason living today can’t be as relevant?

I have always looked backwards to find the days of enjoyment and pleasure. Everyone can relate to a period when we wished time could stand still, savor the moment forever and never let go. That feeling of total contentment with our life, our place in time and our peaceful surroundings in powerful harmony.

For me, my own life has strangely reached this echelon moment. I know how blessed I am and how lucky I feel to be exactly where I am- today. Not yesterday, or 30 years ago- today.

My wife was unexpectedly laid-off in June. Too make a long story short, despite the stress, frustration, having to change our lifestyle, and not having enough money to live on- we’ve never been happier together!

Go figure!

With both of us working the stress was more than we realized. My wife is a nurse, she was on her feet a lot, constantly up and down the hallways, lifting and turning patients. She carried a great disposition to encourage her patients- despite her stress and sometimes dealing with unappreciative patients and family members. Nursing is a tough job. I couldn’t do it!

Our adjustment during this period has put us closer together and despite working nearly 67 years together at the same facility, we are actually experiencing the “good times” now.

Her experience has made us realize a job isn’t everything.  Life is a bigger theater in the quest for doing something meaningful. What really matters isn’t how rich you are; but rather, how rich you live! Today is all we are guaranteed.

When your darkest moment comes, true relationships are all that matters.

Every day, I look forward to arriving home knowing my wife is waiting for me. I wonder what has transpired, inspired or motivated her day.  I am blessed to have her and for the first time in my life hoping the “good times” never end!

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.

What Flows Through Your Life?

I’ve had a leaking toilet with rusted bolts for some time. My lizard brain tried to ignore the problem but the new parts had been purchased a week ago and my wife wasn’t about to cut me any slack.  So, I spoke with a friend the other day, who offered some simple plumbing advice. His good natured disposition is always genuine, so who better than to ask a few questions?

Dan discussed a few probabilities I might collide with:

·        The repair would take longer than expected.

·        Something might take an unexpected twist (pun intended).

·        It’s easy to become frustrated and overreact, causing bigger problems.

·        Take your time and pace yourself.

·        If you become frustrated, take a break, go for a walk, clear your mind.

I thought he somehow had witnessed my previous handyman duties of toilet repair. I was amazed to find out most people (even plumbers) experience the same anxiety and frustration during latrine repair. The repair experience for me rates a notch below going to the dentist.

The hope was to complete the toilet bowl repair in a couple of hours. It took 4-5 hours. Instruction manuals with too small of print and no references in the small photos of the names of the parts were frustrating. Nor did it help matters by purchasing an entire different style of system (Fluid Master) than I normally do. If it wasn’t for my wife deciphering the instruction manual it could have gotten ugly.

I took breaks when I was tired or frustrated and attempted to take my time. I couldn’t stop a slow leak from one of the bowl bolts, because I over tightened one of the screws. The leak is at least slower than before I attempted the repair.

Looks like I will get Dan’s input and some new rubber washers in a few days.

The advice Dan gave me are solid virtues for anything we do in our daily lives.

·        Patience

·        Persistence

·        Focus

·        Relax

·        Rejuvenate

Sometimes we make the simplest tasks incredibly difficult.

Thanks Dan- for your wisdom and advice.

What flows through your 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

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.