The Future is up to You!

"Every child is born an artist. The trick is to remain an artist."

-Picasso

We’ve spent 100 years schooling our children and selves into becoming a “cog in the wheel” for the system. We created compliance by asking students to memorize a formula of history, math and science. Instead of recognizing the interests of the people- the system set the agenda.

It told us what to wear, how to respond and what to think. The bigger picture enforced the rules, fostering everyone to get-in-line, wait your turn and don’t question authority. It amazes me how many people in the workforce have relinquished their minds, hearts and souls in an effort to fit in. Trained by fear to perform a repetitive duty and to keep your thoughts to yourself in the effort to earn a living or possibly retire with some dignity.

Is it any wonder we have so many cases of depression, so many needs for medication and so little regard for our workforce or fellow man?

I really enjoy talking with people and presenting my case for the reason of why we are at a crossroads for the future. I’ve avoided playing the political arguments intentionally. To me, it’s not as relevant as understanding the concept that we are engaged in and responding to the current social environment.

We are experiencing a giant cultural shift in how we do business. The current format of the Industrial Age is undergoing dramatic change. Change- that is quicker than ever before. Technology advances are enabling us to move faster than a speeding train. There will be a new breed of people like Henry Ford, Steve Jobs, and Bill Gates. In fact, due to new technology some of the next inventors are already here.

What does that have to do with me?

If you want to be a part of the shift this is your free ticket. Recognizing you have been a pawn in the game is the key to breaking out and enabling yourself to be competitive. Forming an alliance with others who understand this new direction will provide you with a powerful network capable of embracing change and quickly adjusting. Merely staying put is a guarantee to end-up like the great Buffalo hunt; that followed the leader over the cliff.

Which would you rather be?

If you can’t jump ship at least realize you’ve been bamboozled. The current ride isn’t going to improve until you change your own thinking. It’s a long ride to the bottom of the sea. Do we really want to go there?

 I hope not, we’ve wasted enough time, energy and health in subscribing to a life with diminishing outcomes. Even the so-called recession was a result of the early stages of Industrial restructuring. The “big” stores, factories and other organizations are slowly dying. Jobs that exist today will be gone in 15-25 years and the “traditional” education will be replaced.

So perhaps one of my biggest challenges is to attempt to stay ahead of the curve and hope people will open their minds, despite a life-long indoctrination into compliance, fitting in and being average. Forget the gold watch, retirement party and focus on a more likely scenario:

The future is up to you and better yet; it doesn’t require permission because- you’ve been given a free ticket. Now go make something interesting and creative. It’s your art, your destiny and legacy to do something meaningful!

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.

Do Something Meaningful





"Buckeye"



In a previous blog, I reported spotting a dog in a nearby park system upon driving home from work. I recalled reading on an employee’s bulletin board a story of a missing dog. The dog owner’s home had been burglarized and the thieves peppered sprayed the young dog. The door must have been open and the traumatized pup ran away despite wearing a radio-controlled collar.

I returned to my place of work and contacted the owners.

I drove by the park area again the next day (Friday) after work after I previously contacted the owners. The mixed-breed pup darted across Park Avenue West in Mansfield, Ohio during rush-hour traffic. How it kept from getting hit was probably an act of divinity on that icy day. I turned the car around and spotted the dog near the entrance to South Park.

 I stopped the car and (not remembering the dogs name from the “wanted” poster), got out of the car, attempting to coax the young dog towards me. He looked at me long enough that I recognized the radio-controlled collar on his neck. The dog turned around, pranced away and after about 20 yards distance from me, stopped, barked once, and headed back towards the busy intersection.

I had failed.

I drove back to my place of work and called the dog owners who confirmed from my description of the collar and coat, it was their missing dog “Buckeye.” They said they would drive down to our park system and look for the dog. I informed them I would also go back and search. I found the owners in the park and we couldn’t spot “Buckeye” at all.

We were disappointed and the owner stated he would walk through the entire park on Saturday. My wife and I drove through the park system on Saturday evening after a wedding searching for the dog. I know the drive scared her as we drove around North Lake Park and were followed closely by another car. The only relief came when we noticed two police cruisers sitting in the park.

At this point “Buckeye” had been missing for a week and the cold weather along with another new snowstorm and freezing temperatures had me realizing the young pup’s chances of surviving the elements, traffic and lack of food were running out.

I attempted to drive through the parks the next week after work and whenever I went through town. Nothing, Buckeye had disappeared.

Earlier this week we had a fire in downtown Mansfield, Ohio. It was reported two dogs died during the fire inside the house which was being used strangely enough, for storage. I prayed “Buckeye” wasn’t one of those poor dogs.

Then I received this email today:

Jim,

Were you the person who called me about the missing dog?! I hope so because I wanted to let you know we found him in Middle Park on the Saturday before Christmas! He was very dirty and smelly but otherwise OK and he slept for the next 3 days! Thank you so much for your persistence, Buckeye made it home for Christmas!

Ellen

My prayers had been answered. The young pup had been re-united after a terrible ordeal of theft. The last day of the year I realized this would be the most meaningful achievement I accomplished all year. I put my heart and soul in finding “Buckeye” and was successful. I am happy for the family.

Happy New Year and Thank you

After less than 6 months and 114 posts of The Rust Belt Chronicles on Blogger.com- my audience has reached 7,000 people from around the world. I couldn’t remain inspired without your views, comments and caring.

I thank you all from the bottom of my heart while looking forward to 2013 and-  

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.

Seth Godin, Arsonists and Buckeye Updates

I began reading Seth Godin’s new book- The Icarus Deception: How High will You Fly?. You can view the trailer here. I am hoping to finish the book and do a review shortly thereafter. Don’t hesitate to pick-up a copy of this enlightening book on becoming a remarkable artist and standing-out in the new Industrial Revolution!

The Icarus Deception is being released on December 31^st.

Update on previous post

The local authorities are still holding a suspect in possible connection to the series of 49 acts of arson related fires in downtown Mansfield, Ohio since June of 2012. A second suspect (with a history of arson) was just sent to prison for other crime(s).

If either or both of these individuals were responsible this would indicate the latest 2 acts of arson (on the same night) could have been ignited by copycat arsonists or a larger network of firestarters.

We had another fire yesterday during the day downtown and firefighters don’t believe it was due to arson. The home was used for storage and two dogs lost their life inside during the fire. I am hoping “Buckeye” wasn’t one of those dogs and is safe and sound somewhere on this cold and snowy night!

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 a By-Product of The Industrial Age?

 

If you spent your time at work attempting to work faster and harder you’re a by-product of the Industrial Age.

If your company slogan was work smarter, not harder- you’re a by-product of the Industrial Age.

If the organization you work for splatters the community with billboard and newspaper advertisements’ its marketing believes it’s still lives in the Industrial Age.

If the hierarchy of the organization cuts benefits, bonuses, pay and reduces employees you are witnessing the collapse of the Industrial Age.

The Death of Mass

At one time mass production, care or infrastructure depended solely on vast quantities of paper, pencil, presses and people. Technology slowly changed the process, eliminating some of the previous sources of reliance and input. Computers, software, robotics and automation streamlined the services.

During its heyday- mass marketing was a favorite strategy used by public relations to convince the public to buy, use or choose their product. Mass campaigns were created to extend social awareness and earn trust as a reliable business source.

If we look a little closer, we will notice those businesses have attempted to create the least amount of risk to produce (your company’s category here) for the masses. Some businesses have mastered this concept for decades. Sadly, some are still attempting to emulate and continue to miss the point of change.

The Industrial Age is dying a slow, painful death.

If your organization is run by a board of directors who only observe the accountants bottom line; you are in trouble. Goods and services can only be dumbed down so far, eventually the products or services must be scaled to offset costs. This affects the employees and contrary to the belief of management- the customer.

Our Only Option

We now live in a new Industrial Revolution. An age consisting of small, global and connected ventures with people who share, work together and connect for a common cause. Agile, socially responsible and unique. We earn our customers RESPECT through personal trust, care and remarkable stories that spread.

Our board members are real people who understand our purpose and cause:

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.

Mansfield, Ohio - Slowly Burning

A week ago, downtown Mansfield, Ohio suffered acts of arson- #48 and #49 (simultaneously) since June. Apparently, the authorities were holding two individuals in jail while considering filing charges, when the two fires ignited. Since nobody has been charged, I’m assuming the suspect’s were released. One of the individuals had a previous history of arsons.

I still believe these acts of arson are somehow related to the $2.1 million SAFER (FEMA) grant money awarded to Mansfield and the push to hire 15 firefighters. Despite a $6,000.00 reward the neighbors to these acts of arson are just like Sgt. Schultz of Hogan’s Heroes fame.

Will we suffer our 50^th act of arson in downtown Mansfield, Ohio prior to the New Year?

Despite the snow, I wouldn’t bet against it. With a major portion of boarded-up houses, the downtown area is an easy picking for the prey. There are also many houses with boarded-up windows and tenants living within the homes. Mansfield has been fortunate to avoid human casualties since the fires began in June, but how long until innocent lives are lost?

 

If you know something, please contact the authorities or contact me. Playing the “hear no, see no evil” wildcard isn’t a solution or a humane response.

Arson is simply a form of terror and Fear is never the answer.

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 Icarus Deception/Seth Godin Amazes Again!

Tonight, I finally plan on opening my Kickstarter package from author Seth Godin. I contributed to Seth’s project on Kickstarter awhile ago and although I received the package nearly two weeks ago; I wanted to wait to open the package. The package contains Seth’s new book, The Icarus Deception- How High Will You Fly?. A limited edition book known as the “behemoth” book is also included (it weighs 19 lbs.) and contains a years of Seth’s daily blogs, along with (I’m sure), some surprises.

You’re probably wondering why I waited nearly 2 weeks to open the box.

Well I was going to wait until Christmas, but since my wife and I didn’t purchase gifts for each other, I didn’t want her to feel left-out. Another reason is once I read the book I know I will have to wait quite awhile until Seth publishes another new book.

For me, Seth Godin’s books are just like other’s experience of purchasing Apple products.

The information is so specialized with ideas and the insight is full of vigor, excitement and motivating thoughts for business and life. Plus, I can’t wait to see what other goodies may be in the box.

Seth Godin often writes about where we’ve been and where we should be going. Mr. Godin’s comprehension of education, marketing, business and making art breaks down the truth behind the entire old Industrial Revolution and pushes us to excel towards tomorrow. No one has a better pulse on the future of the marketplace.

Not 1 or 2 but 3 books- WOW!

The Icarus Deception: How High Will You Fly? is available TODAY through Amazon.com.

(Left-image used courtesy of:Amazon.com.)

The “behemoth” edition will be released to the public as a smaller edition entitled: Whatcha Gonna do with That Duck and other provocations 2006-2012; but the cool thing about the limited edition giant book is Seth listed all of us who backed his Kickstarter project by name within the book.

Seth Godin is also making available a third book, V is for Vulnerable: Life Outside the Comfort Zone. The new book includes artwork illustrations by Hugh Macleod and contains 26 of Seth’s basic principles in ABC format for adults.

Looks like I have a lot to read to fill the void. Thanks, Seth!

 (Image-left used courtesy of: Amazon.com.)

Pretty cool, indeed.

 

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.

T'was the Night before Christmas!

I wanted to take the opportunity to wish all of my readers and followers a Merry Christmas. I am already looking ahead towards the New Year for some exciting changes including new products to develop, some exciting interviews for the Rust Belt Chronicles and growth.

But for now, let’s focus on the true meaning of Christmas and celebrate with family, friends and (even) strangers. Going out of our way to make someone’s day special and memorable is worthy and noble. Putting a smile on somebody’s face is a way to show we care.

It’s the season of giving, not receiving.

Helping the homeless, visiting the nursing home or reaching out to someone in need are ways to share the Christmas spirit with others.

Last week, I noticed a flyer with a photo of a missing dog at my workplace. Their home had been broke into a week ago and the robbers sprayed their pet with pepper spray and although it had a radio-controlled collar it escaped from their home and yard.

While driving near our 3-park area on a icy day after work on Friday, I spotted the dog, turned the car around and pulled into the park to coax the young pup. It stared at me, turned around and ran the opposite direction towards traffic and another park.

I drove back to work, got the owner’s phone number from the flyer and contacted the couple; who verified it was their dog. The couple drove to the park which I already had returned too, to help find “Buckeye.” The mixed-breed (part shepherd), white with brown spots, was nowhere to be found.

After attending a wedding Saturday evening, my wife and I drove through the park system to locate the dog, to no avail. The owner said he was going to walk through the parks on Saturday. I hope they find their pup!

At least I gave them hope in finding that puppy!

On Christmas Eve day, I took a drive to our local Toy Time organization to drop off some toys for needy children. Unfortunately, they were closed. So my next thought was to watch for a child I could surprise with a few gifts. After picking up some groceries and walking to my car; another car parked beside me in the parking lot. In the car were a mother and a little girl around 5 years old.

I asked the mother of the small child if she would be interested in the gifts. The mother asked her daughter and her little face lit up with happiness. I gave her the gifts and she thanked me and wished me- a Merry Christmas.

One out of two good deeds isn’t bad because it’s the thought that matters most!

I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!

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.