The Door is Open!

Photo courtesy of: mRio.

 

Many of the things we could achieve in our lives are within our grasp today.

We no longer need permission from a higher authority to begin.

Recognition by the fraternity, a degree or license isn’t necessary.

The door is open!

Find your passion, spread the idea and build your tribe.

Do what you’ve always dreamed or talked about.

Give it your best shot.

Just do 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.

He simply- Watched, Listened and Learned!

Photo courtesy of: WMFD.

I remember during my first book signing, many classmates, old friends, teachers and former board members made an appearance. It was an exciting moment, but at the same time a bit awkward.  The biggest surprise came when a local TV crew arrived with a newspaper reporter from a local newspaper to interview me.

 I was definitely pumped.

Perhaps the biggest take-away was the impression a former classmate made on me that stormy day.

 Photo coutesy of: WMFD

When Michael Gough arrived at the signing table, I was startled. He threw $60.00 down in front of me. I asked him how many books he wanted and his rely was: “one.” I explained the price was far less than the amount on the table and he said: “Keep it. You deserve it for all you’ve done to write a book honoring the late David A. Wells.”

I was flabbergasted, Mike refused the change from the sale and it was clear it would be an insult to pursue the matter further.

Mike Gough was a guy, who didn’t run in the same circle of friends or attend the same classes with me in high school. Mike successfully started his own business and was doing well.

Mike felt that the city of Lexington, Ohio should name the street the high school resides on, after the former band director, David A. Wells, which my book was written in honor of. I agree.

The thought never occurred to me, but Mike Gough has always been very observant. Mr. Gough also mentioned the impact David A. (as we use to refer to him as) made in many students lives. The information Mike had knowledge of amazed me, considering he never played an instrument, nor was a member of The Lexington Band of Gold.

He simply watched, listened and learned.

Running into Mike that day made me realize how little we attempt to meet people and discover what we have in common. Life is so busy or we become so involved in our immediate surroundings, we seldom notice those on the fringe. Observing the quality, wisdom and conscience of someone is a great method to surround yourself with positive influences.

It’s been awhile since I’ve seen my friend, Mike Gough.

I hope all is well with him and his business.

 He deserves 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.

The One Interface We Need!

 

Photo by: Jurvetson.

 

Today, I spent a majority of the day tweaking numbers to improve my department’s budget. In doing so, I was able to free-up over $6,000.00 from one project. Saving the department $1000.00 per hour in expense was well spent time.

While working, it occurred to me how other organizations spend little time actually examining the costs, numbers and the opportunity to innovate processes.

Organizations spend a small fortune on a software system,implementations, manhours, enhancements and updates, but rarely take the time to examine the process used to formulate the data.

Garbage in- garbage out!

Some never question the consistency, method or details. Organizations claim lack of time or manpower to orchestrate the necessary education or review the allocation for assets. Needless money is wasted and the pattern becomes a repetitive learned trait. Money is lost in the trenches within the gaps of the process.

Purchasing a system is designed to reduce costs and simplify the procedure. The software doesn’t decide the parameter’s, it’s a human function. The program may not have the ability to allow us to massage the data or give us what we desire. It’s still the human factor that makes those decisions.

The level of comfort within an organization working with technology often dictates whether the methods are examined or ignored. We live in a fast-paced society that wants things brief, simple and finished. Taking the time to breakdown a process is too often viewed as inefficient. It's to costly not to allocate the time.

Technology and business must work together to ensure all processes are understood and function properly. Assumptions are costly. There's a diference between crunching numbers and working with the right information.

The human factor of processing is still- the one interface we can’t do without!

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.

Just Like Johnny Appleseed!

Back in the early 1800’s, it was customary to retire to bed at night and leave the cabin unlocked. Neighbors and Native American Indians were welcome 24/7. Locking the cabin was considered an insult. Sharing heat and food was common.

Considering the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the most honorable feat would be to help out someone in need.

 

My friend, John O’Brien, lives in Connecticut. Due to the Hurricane his family lived comfortably for several days using a power generator at home. After power was restored, he immediately loaned his generator out to a friend. The friend was in need of heat and a warm meal. John’s simple act of humanity provided comfort and relief.

Times, culture and trust have changed considerably since the days of Johnny Appleseed. It’s safe and easy to be cautious to the extent of ignoring suffering.

If the devastation of a Hurricane inspires us to reach out and provide assistance the humanistic values alive in the 1800’s, still exist today in America.

Consider helping a stranger, friend, or animal.

Just like Johnny Appleseed the seed you plant-grows.

Well done Mr. O'Brien!

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.

Making a Ruckus and Turning Pro

Photo courtesy of: Kjunstorm.

“The tipping point is that magic moment when an idea, trend, or social behavior crosses a threshold, tips, and spreads like wildfire.”
― Malcolm Gladwell, The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference
 

You can tell when you are making an impact. The ruckus usually begins after the truth is discovered and the curtain is slowly opened.

Instead of well-wishers, the only noise will be whispers of denial. As the focus expands and the message spreads, the whispers become a loud roar of threats and the attempt to ruin your credibility begins. When the sound is deafening you've hit the motherlode. The risk is great and the reward is huge.

Most fold their cards and go home.

The battle has now reached the tipping point.

Those with the guts, patience and passion push through it.

You've discovered the meaning of turning pro.                                                      

Suddenly, the story becomes about the war, odds, obstacles and the effort. Everyone has an opinion and the rouse begins.You’re a minuscule hero of sorts.

The Giant has been defeated.

You understand success.

And now it’s time to choose another battle and make a difference again.

This is a true warrior!  

What have you done to overcome a battle and be successful? Do you fight for just causes to help others? Or do you just surrender to fear? I’d love to hear your comments and thoughts.

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/

Take the Money and Run

Photo courtesy of: Alan Cleaver.

We live in a society where truth is often overlooked to support incoming money through marketing strategy. Nothing is really sacred or off limits, particularly in the rust belt, when seeking funding.

Stories can be spread to justify the means of private funding, elections or the passing of a levy.  When funding is by means of corporate money or a total lack of backers, the spin begins.

Urgency of power is all that matters. If an idea can be bought, it can be sold.

Why do Issues desperately in need of fixing remain broken for decades, while “special Interests” are seemingly satisfied?

Once upon a time, specific unwritten standards existing such as truth, honor and dignity were important. Not anymore. If someone has enough time, presence and money, the story can be developed, just like Hollywood.

Repeat the chant often enough and it becomes believable.

Few question the motive, details or accuracy.

Worse yet- few people really care!

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.

End Sex Trafficking

 

Photo credit:Mike Baird

As Hurricane Sandy wreaks havoc on New York City, the East Coast and into the rust belt area, I wanted to update you with a blog related story.

Were not Gonna Take It

Photo by: Alex E. Proimos

I recently wrote a blog to raise awareness against sex trafficking. I received a timely bit of email information through meeting culture warrior Al Pittampalli.

Last Friday, was National End Sex Trafficking Day.To commemorate this day a project was initiated by Erin Giles, Business Philanthropy Coach. Erin has been the force behind the release of the book- End Sex Trafficking. The book is a collection of 60 essays by 60 authors on love, knowledge and freedom. Among those contributing essays are: Al Pittampalli, Seth Godin, Danielle La Porte, Jonathan Fields, and many others.

The authors, publisher and editors proceeds go directly to the Not For Sale Campaign, which battles every day to abolish sex trafficking throughout the world. More than 27 million people are slaves to human trafficking today.

One of the awesome changes in today’s world is our ability to make an impact in lives, without the proceeds going to a million other pockets in administrative fees, salaries ect…

Thoughtful folks like Erin Giles and the gracious authors have donated freely to this cause. This is what I often write about. Here’s your chance to help end sex trafficking. Now you have the opportunity to make a difference by purchasing the book- End Sex Trafficking. Here is the link.

Note: I receive no affiliation marketing proceed from the purchase of this book.

Riding the Storm Out!

 

 Photo credit: MTAPhotos.

My blog viewership of Ohio readers is about to be bypassed by the citizens of New York City. This is a pleasant and totally unexpected surprise. So as we feel some of the rains and wind from Hurricane Sandy here in the rust belt- hang in there, button down the hatch and thank you for following my journey!

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.