Hi everyone,
Due to requests made, I'm extending the deadline from Thursday, April 30, 2009 12:00(midnight) EST (US) to Friday, May 29, 2009 12:00 (midnight) EST (US). The winner will be announced on Sunday, May 31, 2009 on this blog.
To recap: I am having a story continuation contest. The story is one of my christian fiction entitled "The Wealthy Atheist". So far 3 Chapters have been posted. I am looking for Chapter 4.
The lucky winner will become an author on my blog PLUS they will receive $1 (the cash may go up) to their paypal account (must have paypal account in order to receive payment).
In order to qualify to win you MUST continue the story (Chapter 4) on the storymash.com site. Only continuations (Chapter 4) posted on the storymash.com site will qualify for the prize (of authorship on my blog AND cash).
Looking forward to reading quite a few Chapter 4 entries.
God bless..
MJ
"NEVER GIVE UP! NEVER GIVE IN!"
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
Monday, April 27, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
5 Days Left....
Hi all,
For those of you taking the time to read this blog, first of all thank you for your time. Secondly, you should be familiar with the story contest that I've been having. For those of you who have just heard about it, here's a recap.
I am having a story continuation contest. The story is one of my christian fiction entitled "The Wealthy Atheist". So far 3 Chapters have been posted. I am looking for Chapter 4.
The lucky winner will become an author on my blog PLUS they will receive $1 (the cash may go up) to their paypal account (must have paypal account in order to receive payment).
In order to qualify to win you MUST continue the story (Chapter 4) on the storymash.com site. Only continuations (Chapter 4) posted on the storymash.com site will qualify for the prize (of authorship on my blog AND cash).
The deadline is Thursday, April 30, 2009 12:00(midnight) EST (US) - just a few days away. The winner will be announced on Saturday, May 2, 2009 on this blog.
Good luck everyone. God bless...
MJ
"NEVER GIVE UP! NEVER GIVE IN!"
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
ps. If you'd like me to extend the deadline just leave a comment below on this blog and I'll extend the deadline.
For those of you taking the time to read this blog, first of all thank you for your time. Secondly, you should be familiar with the story contest that I've been having. For those of you who have just heard about it, here's a recap.
I am having a story continuation contest. The story is one of my christian fiction entitled "The Wealthy Atheist". So far 3 Chapters have been posted. I am looking for Chapter 4.
The lucky winner will become an author on my blog PLUS they will receive $1 (the cash may go up) to their paypal account (must have paypal account in order to receive payment).
In order to qualify to win you MUST continue the story (Chapter 4) on the storymash.com site. Only continuations (Chapter 4) posted on the storymash.com site will qualify for the prize (of authorship on my blog AND cash).
The deadline is Thursday, April 30, 2009 12:00(midnight) EST (US) - just a few days away. The winner will be announced on Saturday, May 2, 2009 on this blog.
Good luck everyone. God bless...
MJ
"NEVER GIVE UP! NEVER GIVE IN!"
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
ps. If you'd like me to extend the deadline just leave a comment below on this blog and I'll extend the deadline.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Russell Emerson on Success
Hi everybody,
Recently I had a Q & A session with Mike Spillman (Future You University) and posted the result of that Q & A session here on this blog. I can't thank Mike enough for that session. He reminded me about why we're here on this earth.
In addition to Mike Spillman, I had a similar Q & A session with Russell Emerson. Russ Emerson is currently disabled from a stroke he survived in 2001. He describes himself as abled not disabled. As such he is self employed with no current income except SSI/DSI. In his words, "I refuse to let anyone tell me what I CAN'T do, I don't know that and have no interest in remaining in THEIR small, Godless world, nor am I interested in failing to complete the journey that God specifically chose for me or influence/inspire/encourage those that He has caused or gives me the blessed opportunity to do so. Not just anyone gets to be where I have been or emerge alive from it".
There's so much more to Russ. Feel free to visit his profile on 48days.net and add him as a friend. He'll happily share his world with you.
When I had the Q & A with Russ on the topic of "success", this is what he had to say:
Actually, a friend asked me once when I was about 35: How do you know that your life has been successful? My answer I believed then and 20 years later I do still. My answer then was if those who throw the dirt on you at your Victory Ceremony, can honestly say that ''He cared enough to make a difference'', then your life has been a success.
Around the same time, another friend, a Stone Cutter, making $25 per hour, asked me, a Dairy Farmer, why I did what I did? I told him the answer is simple. Everyday I produce a nutritious, consumable product and have the satisfaction of knowing that, you got $25 per hour.
I don't honestly have anything that I'm unwilling to do, except something that I know to be wrong and would not glorify God. If I did I would be outside of God's will for me.
I really do believe that long term goals should be what the short term goals were just geometrically multiplied. If the change you did, and there is no beginning or end, the consistency of God. If He never changes, can we and still be like Him or did someone or something else.
Mid-Term goals can be likened to a refreshment stop in a race that allows us to finish strong, ''run the good race , fight the good fight'' where or when Mid-Term arrives is impossible to say. If we just keep on keepin' on and the whole end [Long-Term goal] becomes geometrically multiplied, Mid-Term would impose limitations on the Long-Term goal .
Russell Emerson
As you can tell, he's very optimistic. I encourage you to get to know him better.
Stay tuned for more Q & A sessions.
God bless...
MJ
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
Recently I had a Q & A session with Mike Spillman (Future You University) and posted the result of that Q & A session here on this blog. I can't thank Mike enough for that session. He reminded me about why we're here on this earth.
In addition to Mike Spillman, I had a similar Q & A session with Russell Emerson. Russ Emerson is currently disabled from a stroke he survived in 2001. He describes himself as abled not disabled. As such he is self employed with no current income except SSI/DSI. In his words, "I refuse to let anyone tell me what I CAN'T do, I don't know that and have no interest in remaining in THEIR small, Godless world, nor am I interested in failing to complete the journey that God specifically chose for me or influence/inspire/encourage those that He has caused or gives me the blessed opportunity to do so. Not just anyone gets to be where I have been or emerge alive from it".
There's so much more to Russ. Feel free to visit his profile on 48days.net and add him as a friend. He'll happily share his world with you.
When I had the Q & A with Russ on the topic of "success", this is what he had to say:
Actually, a friend asked me once when I was about 35: How do you know that your life has been successful? My answer I believed then and 20 years later I do still. My answer then was if those who throw the dirt on you at your Victory Ceremony, can honestly say that ''He cared enough to make a difference'', then your life has been a success.
Around the same time, another friend, a Stone Cutter, making $25 per hour, asked me, a Dairy Farmer, why I did what I did? I told him the answer is simple. Everyday I produce a nutritious, consumable product and have the satisfaction of knowing that, you got $25 per hour.
I don't honestly have anything that I'm unwilling to do, except something that I know to be wrong and would not glorify God. If I did I would be outside of God's will for me.
I really do believe that long term goals should be what the short term goals were just geometrically multiplied. If the change you did, and there is no beginning or end, the consistency of God. If He never changes, can we and still be like Him or did someone or something else.
Mid-Term goals can be likened to a refreshment stop in a race that allows us to finish strong, ''run the good race , fight the good fight'' where or when Mid-Term arrives is impossible to say. If we just keep on keepin' on and the whole end [Long-Term goal] becomes geometrically multiplied, Mid-Term would impose limitations on the Long-Term goal .
Russell Emerson
As you can tell, he's very optimistic. I encourage you to get to know him better.
Stay tuned for more Q & A sessions.
God bless...
MJ
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
MJ Enterprises Bz Blog
Hello everyone,
In keeping with my mission to help others get what they want out of life, I've started MJ Enterprises Bz.
The mission of MJ Enterprises Bz is to help encourage people to pursue their dreams and get the most out of their life.
From time to time I'll be posting about a business opportunity or such which I think would help you out financially. Mostly, the posts will be encouraging, uplifting, inspirational, motivational.
If there's anything you'd like to know about me or you just want to say hi and maybe introduce yourself to me, feel free to email me: storywriterinbz@gmail.com OR mjenterprisesbz@gmail.com
Looking forward to get to meet you soon.
God bless...
Miss J (aka MJ)
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
In keeping with my mission to help others get what they want out of life, I've started MJ Enterprises Bz.
The mission of MJ Enterprises Bz is to help encourage people to pursue their dreams and get the most out of their life.
From time to time I'll be posting about a business opportunity or such which I think would help you out financially. Mostly, the posts will be encouraging, uplifting, inspirational, motivational.
If there's anything you'd like to know about me or you just want to say hi and maybe introduce yourself to me, feel free to email me: storywriterinbz@gmail.com OR mjenterprisesbz@gmail.com
Looking forward to get to meet you soon.
God bless...
Miss J (aka MJ)
http://budurl.com/mjenterprisesbzblog
http://budurl.com/cibblog
Monday, April 20, 2009
New Blog for Christians In Business (CIB) Group
Hey everyone,
I decided to start a blog for the Christians In Business (CIB) group. I originally started the group in MorningCoach.com and have recently started it on some other online communities. (Please refer to the sidebar on the right for the CIB group list).
As I start the group on other communities, or update the group on these (or other communities) or I come across similar groups to CIB, I'll post the updates on the CIB blog.
If there's anything you'd like to know about me (or the CIB group) or you just want to say hi and maybe introduce yourself to me, feel free to email me: storywriterinbz@gmail.com OR christiansinbusiness.cib@gmail.com
Looking forward to get to meet you soon.
God bless...
MJ
http://budurl.com/cibblog
I decided to start a blog for the Christians In Business (CIB) group. I originally started the group in MorningCoach.com and have recently started it on some other online communities. (Please refer to the sidebar on the right for the CIB group list).
As I start the group on other communities, or update the group on these (or other communities) or I come across similar groups to CIB, I'll post the updates on the CIB blog.
If there's anything you'd like to know about me (or the CIB group) or you just want to say hi and maybe introduce yourself to me, feel free to email me: storywriterinbz@gmail.com OR christiansinbusiness.cib@gmail.com
Looking forward to get to meet you soon.
God bless...
MJ
http://budurl.com/cibblog
Sunday, April 19, 2009
The Mind STUCK in MUCK
What was your mind made to do? By "mind" I'm talking about our brains.
Go back in time and think about how much you learned early on in your life. Just in the first few years of life we likely learned more than we have in all of our years since then combined!
It's been proven that children have the ability to learn just anything and everything when they are young. Jim Rohn (www.jimrohn.com) talks about a discussion he had with a friend of his that spoke several languages. This discussion caused him to ponder to his friend, "I wonder how many languages a child can learn?" To which his friend replied, "All of them!" His friend went on to say that the major problem was the lack of those to TEACH these languages to children. So, if the child has a teacher, it is possible for a child to learn far more than we can imagine!
What happened?
Has our minds - yours and mine - become STUCK in the MUCK?
Have they become "bogged down" in apathy? "I'm not going to learn anything I don't have to! I did enough of that in school!" is an attitude that I have actually heard expressed. Now, I understand someone right out of high school and even college saying that out of "relief" of graduating - but shouldn't that thought change after a while?
Should we not CRAVE more knowledge?
How many people (perhaps you) have a job that does not challenge them in any way? How many people go through their workday with mind-numbing activities that do nothing to stimulate your mind or challenge you to think and consider new/better ways in which to do things?
I CHALLENGE ALL OF US to take this seriously! Even if you feel that you cannot do anything about your situation at work (I think we can, but that's for another discussion) then it is even more important for us to find ways to stimulate our minds when we are away from work.
The problem is this: because we have been bored all day we actually feel more worn out than if we had been busy all day! Boredom has a way of completely sucking the life right out of us! So, the very need to do SOMETHING to stimulate our minds often goes unheeded simply due to our "mind-numbing" activities actually numbing our mind!
What will YOU do? What are things that YOU (and I) can do TODAY to stimulate the mind?
HERE'S THE KICKER! If we would do this we might be surprised to find out that we also have the ability to do something about our position at our workplace! Think about it.
Writing (like for MJ's author blog here) is an EXCELLENT way to stimulate the mind. Whatever it is - DISCOVER IT and DO IT!
And, by the way, PLEASE - if you have young children at home - start NOW in helping them THINK and EXPLORE using their mind.
Our future depends upon it!
"Make it an AWESOME Day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"
Mike Spillman
http://www.FutureYouUniversity.com
Go back in time and think about how much you learned early on in your life. Just in the first few years of life we likely learned more than we have in all of our years since then combined!
It's been proven that children have the ability to learn just anything and everything when they are young. Jim Rohn (www.jimrohn.com) talks about a discussion he had with a friend of his that spoke several languages. This discussion caused him to ponder to his friend, "I wonder how many languages a child can learn?" To which his friend replied, "All of them!" His friend went on to say that the major problem was the lack of those to TEACH these languages to children. So, if the child has a teacher, it is possible for a child to learn far more than we can imagine!
What happened?
Has our minds - yours and mine - become STUCK in the MUCK?
Have they become "bogged down" in apathy? "I'm not going to learn anything I don't have to! I did enough of that in school!" is an attitude that I have actually heard expressed. Now, I understand someone right out of high school and even college saying that out of "relief" of graduating - but shouldn't that thought change after a while?
Should we not CRAVE more knowledge?
How many people (perhaps you) have a job that does not challenge them in any way? How many people go through their workday with mind-numbing activities that do nothing to stimulate your mind or challenge you to think and consider new/better ways in which to do things?
I CHALLENGE ALL OF US to take this seriously! Even if you feel that you cannot do anything about your situation at work (I think we can, but that's for another discussion) then it is even more important for us to find ways to stimulate our minds when we are away from work.
The problem is this: because we have been bored all day we actually feel more worn out than if we had been busy all day! Boredom has a way of completely sucking the life right out of us! So, the very need to do SOMETHING to stimulate our minds often goes unheeded simply due to our "mind-numbing" activities actually numbing our mind!
What will YOU do? What are things that YOU (and I) can do TODAY to stimulate the mind?
HERE'S THE KICKER! If we would do this we might be surprised to find out that we also have the ability to do something about our position at our workplace! Think about it.
Writing (like for MJ's author blog here) is an EXCELLENT way to stimulate the mind. Whatever it is - DISCOVER IT and DO IT!
And, by the way, PLEASE - if you have young children at home - start NOW in helping them THINK and EXPLORE using their mind.
Our future depends upon it!
"Make it an AWESOME Day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"
Mike Spillman
http://www.FutureYouUniversity.com
Friday, April 17, 2009
Be An Author on this blog for FREE
Hi everyone,
I'm running a special promotion right now.
Be an author on this blog for FREE. Here's how:
Join Christians In Business (CIB) group on the following communities (including on MorningCoach.com).
Send me a pm (containing your email address so I can add you as an author on this blog) in any of the communities letting me know you've joined CIB group on ALL the communities (give me time to verify).
And bingo, I'll add you as an author to this blog.
The World Needs More Happy: http://budurl.com/cibhappy
48Days.net: http://budurl.com/cib48daysdotnet
Spiritual Entrepreneur Community/Network: http://budurl.com/cibspiritualpreneur
sta.rtup.biz: http://budurl.com/cibsub
This offer is only good to the first 100 members to join CIB on these communities.
God bless...
MJ
I'm running a special promotion right now.
Be an author on this blog for FREE. Here's how:
Join Christians In Business (CIB) group on the following communities (including on MorningCoach.com).
Send me a pm (containing your email address so I can add you as an author on this blog) in any of the communities letting me know you've joined CIB group on ALL the communities (give me time to verify).
And bingo, I'll add you as an author to this blog.
The World Needs More Happy: http://budurl.com/cibhappy
48Days.net: http://budurl.com/cib48daysdotnet
Spiritual Entrepreneur Community/Network: http://budurl.com/cibspiritualpreneur
sta.rtup.biz: http://budurl.com/cibsub
This offer is only good to the first 100 members to join CIB on these communities.
God bless...
MJ
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Q & A with Mike Spillman from Future You University
Hi everyone,
Recently I was chatting with my friend Mike Spillman from Future You University and he pitched an idea of having a Q & A session with him. I am always hungry for great information especially from people like Mike, so I took him up on his offer. Here's the result:
Questions and Answers with Mike Spillman (an interview done by RJ Charley from Belize on 4.16.2009)
1) What is your idea/your definition of success?
When I think of "success" I actually think of two different categories. For one, I think of a general, "over-all" idea/definition which I will discuss first. As many will tell you, success is not all about wealth. Overall, I would suggest that success is a sense of fulfillment in one's life. What do I mean? Well, for me - things I take into consideration are such things as my family. I am the father of three sons, two of which are married and the youngest will be a Senior in High School next year. So, as I now observe these young men I get to watch and feel "fulfillment" in knowing that I planted seed in their lives for this very moment. I find fulfillment (success) in knowing that I did indeed spend quality time (and quantity as well) with my sons and that I shared love, laughter and music with them as they grew. Did I do everything perfectly? Of course not - but I feel a contentment and fulfillment knowing that I did the best for them that I could. I also consider my relationship with my wife. We will have been married for 28 years in about another month. By no means have I been perfect in this marriage. However, there has been a commitment and devotion that has made it last. The Bible asks the question, "What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?" I also attach to that thought of "soul" , family. I do not consider one successful if he has lost family in his/her quest for "success.
Now, on to the other category which I would consider financial. Again, for others this can mean many different things. Yet, when I think of financial success I consider it this way: for me to have achieved a financial level that allows me to give away a minimum of 50% of my income to charities, youth organizations, etc. AND to be able to know that my family's financial future has also been taken care of (retirement, etc.). Then to live peaceably, joyfully and content with what is "left". To enjoy my life without worry and still know that I am helping others. What's the dollar amount on that? For me, it's likely less than one would think. Think about this - after you have shared what you have been blessed with and taken care of your family and your future....how much do you need? My only desire in increasing wealth once these things are achieved is the ability to give even more to these charities and youth organizations. Simply put, in both "categories" my definition of success would be using and sharing what God has blessed you with!
2) What are you willing to do to be a success?
3) What are you NOT willing to do to be a success?
I'm going to combine these two questions into one. My answer to this question is a little different than it would have been a few years ago - and yet it remains the same! Confused? Let me explain. In my answer about "success" I talked about my family and my sons. I have never been willing to give up that "quantity and quality" time with my sons. Never. I understand what some people say about "quality" vs. "quantity" but I honestly believe that you cannot have one without the other. My #1 job was to be a good father to my sons, so I was not willing to spend large amounts of time away from them or to become too busy for them.
The same is true today, but in a different way. Our dynamic has changed at home, however I still am firm in my resolve to put family first. Now, that doesn't mean the same as it did several years ago due to this changing dynamic. I now have more time to devote to my dreams and goals, yet I will not do so to the detriment of my relationship with my wife or son(s). This is an EXCITING time in my life! My time has been "opened up" due to the ages of my sons, and I am very excited to be pushing ahead with these dreams and goals.
I HOPE that I am willing to have a determination that will never give up in this pursuit! I hope that I am willing to teach others along the way and to help them in their pursuits. I HOPE that I will always be an example of character and honesty along the way. I am committed to that. So, in saying that, I am NOT willing to pursue this success "at all costs". As you read in my definition of success, for me it is more than a dollar amount.
Bottom line, the biggest thing (in my opinion) that we must ALL be willing to do to be a success is to step out in the face of fear and make that move!
4) What are some of your short term goals?
My short term goals probably are focused around my seminars that I will begin this summer. This is a big step for me! Am I a little afraid? Yes. It's that whole "fear of the unknown" that we must all battle. More specifically, my short term goals are for my seminars to get off to a great start this summer and to have attendance at each one of at least 200 people and also for my podcasts to continue to be received well.
5) What are some of your mid-term goals?
My mid-term goals (I look at the next 3 - 5 years) would be the expansion of all that I am currently doing. I plan for my podcasts to be well-known by many and to be a top-ranked podcasts at iTunes. I also plan to be involved in my own radio program with these same ideas and thoughts. My goal is for my seminars to continue to draw those wanting and willing to grow in the area of positive thinking and personal development and to also begin to focus on programs for teens. I have a MAJOR plan/goal to happen within three years that I cannot share with you here at this time. Shhhhhhh..it's a secret. But you'll hear about it, I promise!
6) What are some of your long term goals?
I love Jim Rohn. I love his personality and his approach. I love the way that he has achieved respect from so many for what he has shared with hundreds of thousands of people. He has left such a powerful legacy in his work and in his life!
My long term goals would be for this whole path that I'm taking to continue to expand and grow beyond my wildest dreams - areas that I cannot even begin to imagine at this point and for me to be willing to allow these things to happen. My long term goal is for the name, Mike Spillman, to create thoughts of "honor, integrity, honestly, quality, compassion" - and to leave this earth with such a legacy. A legacy of sharing what God has blessed me with and passing it on to others.
7) What are you willing to do to achieve those goals?
8) What are you NOT willing to do to achieve those goals?
My answer to these two would not be any different to #'s 2 and 3. I am not willing to lessen my integrity, etc. in order to reach any goal. It's just not worth it and it will bring failure sooner or later.
9) What are your values/beliefs?
I try to follow the example that Jesus left for us to focus on "serving others" rather than "being served". What a powerful thought! What a powerful way to live! By doing so, my focus is then on doing the best I can to make sure that anyone and everyone that has ANYTHING to do with me or my program(s) always receives more than they bargained for. My goal and focus because of this example is to not worry so much about "am I getting what I'm worth" as much as "are they getting MORE than they paid for?".
I believe that each of us has something great within us. As the old saying goes, "God doesn't make junk!" Oh, the world will do all it can (the negativity) to dump on us and make us feel worthless. And the world is full of people that are in this arena of "worthlessness" in their eyes --- but I believe differently! Due to that, I hope to help others rise above this negative influence so that they may live to their full, glorious potential.
10) What advice would you give to someone wanting to make it as an entrepreneur, whether online or offline?
In a recent podcast that I did ("Making the Move - Part 3" ...go to http://www.FutureYouUniversity.com to reach my podcast link as well as my blog on these things) I discuss some very specific questions that people should ask themselves when considering stepping out and "making their move". I would direct you to that and ask that you write them down and take the time to answer each one of them. Here's the thing I want to emphasize - "making your move" can mean a lot of different things! Perhaps for you, it is deciding to get your G.E.D. or to go back to college and get your degree. That is a BIG step and many people never make these moves due to the fear that we have already discussed. Ask yourself this question - WHAT IS YOUR DREAM WORTH? Actually, a lot of the questions you have asked me would be questions I would suggest that anyone seeking to improve their life in any way ask themselves.
Another bit of advice I would give is this - NEVER GIVE UP! You see, if your "dream" has "worth/value" (again, you must determine its worth) then you should never give up on it. How long is too long? Too many people give up at the first signs of trouble or adversity. When I see this I assume that the dream must not have been worth much to start with.
And, finally, I'd give this advice - follow your heart! What do I mean by that? If the "dream" is not YOUR dream -you likely will not have the determination to follow through. If it is not something that you feel passionate about - you likely will give up. Why? Because the "worth/value" is not there! For example, at one time in my life, I sold vacuum cleaners door to door. Really - I'm telling the truth! I HATED it! However, due to some success I had early on I had been promoted to manager of the local branch. (Actually, I figured out later, no one else would take it!). Anyway, one day one of the "biggies" that was over our area was visiting with me and getting all excited about this vacuum cleaner and how to use this approach and that approach when he stopped in the middle of his sentence, looked at the blank look on my face and said, "You're really not into this at all, are you?" I honestly answered back, "No sir, I'm really not." Needless to say, that was the end of my vacuum cleaner days. THANK YOU!
Take the time necessary (what if it takes years?) to find your passion. Be patient. It will come! And, when it does, you should then have the passion necessary (the "worth/value") to follow it through.
11) Anything else you'd like to share?
I simply want to thank you for this opportunity to share my thoughts. I also simply encourage others to do all they can to serve the people around you. Make an impact on YOUR world - your community, you home, your friends and family. Start there and great things will happen. I believe that and I want to encourage you to do the same. Please feel free to contact me via the website I listed above - I'd love to hear from any of you. Now, I cannot end this without saying the following......."Make it an AWESOME Day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"
At this point I thanked him for his time and answered him as to some people I'd like to have participate. Among them are Jay Peroni (JayPeroni.com), Dan Miller (48days.com), Angie Strader (TheWorldNeedsMoreHappy.com) and JB Glossinger (MorningCoach.com), just to name a few. To see what they, and others, have to say, stay tuned.
Until then, God bless...
MJ
Recently I was chatting with my friend Mike Spillman from Future You University and he pitched an idea of having a Q & A session with him. I am always hungry for great information especially from people like Mike, so I took him up on his offer. Here's the result:
Questions and Answers with Mike Spillman (an interview done by RJ Charley from Belize on 4.16.2009)
1) What is your idea/your definition of success?
When I think of "success" I actually think of two different categories. For one, I think of a general, "over-all" idea/definition which I will discuss first. As many will tell you, success is not all about wealth. Overall, I would suggest that success is a sense of fulfillment in one's life. What do I mean? Well, for me - things I take into consideration are such things as my family. I am the father of three sons, two of which are married and the youngest will be a Senior in High School next year. So, as I now observe these young men I get to watch and feel "fulfillment" in knowing that I planted seed in their lives for this very moment. I find fulfillment (success) in knowing that I did indeed spend quality time (and quantity as well) with my sons and that I shared love, laughter and music with them as they grew. Did I do everything perfectly? Of course not - but I feel a contentment and fulfillment knowing that I did the best for them that I could. I also consider my relationship with my wife. We will have been married for 28 years in about another month. By no means have I been perfect in this marriage. However, there has been a commitment and devotion that has made it last. The Bible asks the question, "What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?" I also attach to that thought of "soul" , family. I do not consider one successful if he has lost family in his/her quest for "success.
Now, on to the other category which I would consider financial. Again, for others this can mean many different things. Yet, when I think of financial success I consider it this way: for me to have achieved a financial level that allows me to give away a minimum of 50% of my income to charities, youth organizations, etc. AND to be able to know that my family's financial future has also been taken care of (retirement, etc.). Then to live peaceably, joyfully and content with what is "left". To enjoy my life without worry and still know that I am helping others. What's the dollar amount on that? For me, it's likely less than one would think. Think about this - after you have shared what you have been blessed with and taken care of your family and your future....how much do you need? My only desire in increasing wealth once these things are achieved is the ability to give even more to these charities and youth organizations. Simply put, in both "categories" my definition of success would be using and sharing what God has blessed you with!
2) What are you willing to do to be a success?
3) What are you NOT willing to do to be a success?
I'm going to combine these two questions into one. My answer to this question is a little different than it would have been a few years ago - and yet it remains the same! Confused? Let me explain. In my answer about "success" I talked about my family and my sons. I have never been willing to give up that "quantity and quality" time with my sons. Never. I understand what some people say about "quality" vs. "quantity" but I honestly believe that you cannot have one without the other. My #1 job was to be a good father to my sons, so I was not willing to spend large amounts of time away from them or to become too busy for them.
The same is true today, but in a different way. Our dynamic has changed at home, however I still am firm in my resolve to put family first. Now, that doesn't mean the same as it did several years ago due to this changing dynamic. I now have more time to devote to my dreams and goals, yet I will not do so to the detriment of my relationship with my wife or son(s). This is an EXCITING time in my life! My time has been "opened up" due to the ages of my sons, and I am very excited to be pushing ahead with these dreams and goals.
I HOPE that I am willing to have a determination that will never give up in this pursuit! I hope that I am willing to teach others along the way and to help them in their pursuits. I HOPE that I will always be an example of character and honesty along the way. I am committed to that. So, in saying that, I am NOT willing to pursue this success "at all costs". As you read in my definition of success, for me it is more than a dollar amount.
Bottom line, the biggest thing (in my opinion) that we must ALL be willing to do to be a success is to step out in the face of fear and make that move!
4) What are some of your short term goals?
My short term goals probably are focused around my seminars that I will begin this summer. This is a big step for me! Am I a little afraid? Yes. It's that whole "fear of the unknown" that we must all battle. More specifically, my short term goals are for my seminars to get off to a great start this summer and to have attendance at each one of at least 200 people and also for my podcasts to continue to be received well.
5) What are some of your mid-term goals?
My mid-term goals (I look at the next 3 - 5 years) would be the expansion of all that I am currently doing. I plan for my podcasts to be well-known by many and to be a top-ranked podcasts at iTunes. I also plan to be involved in my own radio program with these same ideas and thoughts. My goal is for my seminars to continue to draw those wanting and willing to grow in the area of positive thinking and personal development and to also begin to focus on programs for teens. I have a MAJOR plan/goal to happen within three years that I cannot share with you here at this time. Shhhhhhh..it's a secret. But you'll hear about it, I promise!
6) What are some of your long term goals?
I love Jim Rohn. I love his personality and his approach. I love the way that he has achieved respect from so many for what he has shared with hundreds of thousands of people. He has left such a powerful legacy in his work and in his life!
My long term goals would be for this whole path that I'm taking to continue to expand and grow beyond my wildest dreams - areas that I cannot even begin to imagine at this point and for me to be willing to allow these things to happen. My long term goal is for the name, Mike Spillman, to create thoughts of "honor, integrity, honestly, quality, compassion" - and to leave this earth with such a legacy. A legacy of sharing what God has blessed me with and passing it on to others.
7) What are you willing to do to achieve those goals?
8) What are you NOT willing to do to achieve those goals?
My answer to these two would not be any different to #'s 2 and 3. I am not willing to lessen my integrity, etc. in order to reach any goal. It's just not worth it and it will bring failure sooner or later.
9) What are your values/beliefs?
I try to follow the example that Jesus left for us to focus on "serving others" rather than "being served". What a powerful thought! What a powerful way to live! By doing so, my focus is then on doing the best I can to make sure that anyone and everyone that has ANYTHING to do with me or my program(s) always receives more than they bargained for. My goal and focus because of this example is to not worry so much about "am I getting what I'm worth" as much as "are they getting MORE than they paid for?".
I believe that each of us has something great within us. As the old saying goes, "God doesn't make junk!" Oh, the world will do all it can (the negativity) to dump on us and make us feel worthless. And the world is full of people that are in this arena of "worthlessness" in their eyes --- but I believe differently! Due to that, I hope to help others rise above this negative influence so that they may live to their full, glorious potential.
10) What advice would you give to someone wanting to make it as an entrepreneur, whether online or offline?
In a recent podcast that I did ("Making the Move - Part 3" ...go to http://www.FutureYouUniversity.com to reach my podcast link as well as my blog on these things) I discuss some very specific questions that people should ask themselves when considering stepping out and "making their move". I would direct you to that and ask that you write them down and take the time to answer each one of them. Here's the thing I want to emphasize - "making your move" can mean a lot of different things! Perhaps for you, it is deciding to get your G.E.D. or to go back to college and get your degree. That is a BIG step and many people never make these moves due to the fear that we have already discussed. Ask yourself this question - WHAT IS YOUR DREAM WORTH? Actually, a lot of the questions you have asked me would be questions I would suggest that anyone seeking to improve their life in any way ask themselves.
Another bit of advice I would give is this - NEVER GIVE UP! You see, if your "dream" has "worth/value" (again, you must determine its worth) then you should never give up on it. How long is too long? Too many people give up at the first signs of trouble or adversity. When I see this I assume that the dream must not have been worth much to start with.
And, finally, I'd give this advice - follow your heart! What do I mean by that? If the "dream" is not YOUR dream -you likely will not have the determination to follow through. If it is not something that you feel passionate about - you likely will give up. Why? Because the "worth/value" is not there! For example, at one time in my life, I sold vacuum cleaners door to door. Really - I'm telling the truth! I HATED it! However, due to some success I had early on I had been promoted to manager of the local branch. (Actually, I figured out later, no one else would take it!). Anyway, one day one of the "biggies" that was over our area was visiting with me and getting all excited about this vacuum cleaner and how to use this approach and that approach when he stopped in the middle of his sentence, looked at the blank look on my face and said, "You're really not into this at all, are you?" I honestly answered back, "No sir, I'm really not." Needless to say, that was the end of my vacuum cleaner days. THANK YOU!
Take the time necessary (what if it takes years?) to find your passion. Be patient. It will come! And, when it does, you should then have the passion necessary (the "worth/value") to follow it through.
11) Anything else you'd like to share?
I simply want to thank you for this opportunity to share my thoughts. I also simply encourage others to do all they can to serve the people around you. Make an impact on YOUR world - your community, you home, your friends and family. Start there and great things will happen. I believe that and I want to encourage you to do the same. Please feel free to contact me via the website I listed above - I'd love to hear from any of you. Now, I cannot end this without saying the following......."Make it an AWESOME Day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"
At this point I thanked him for his time and answered him as to some people I'd like to have participate. Among them are Jay Peroni (JayPeroni.com), Dan Miller (48days.com), Angie Strader (TheWorldNeedsMoreHappy.com) and JB Glossinger (MorningCoach.com), just to name a few. To see what they, and others, have to say, stay tuned.
Until then, God bless...
MJ
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Story Continuation Contest Still On: The Wealthy Atheist Chapter 4
Hi folks,
There is still time to be an author on my blog for FREE AND make a little money in the process.
To recap I am having a story continuation contest. The story is one of my christian fiction entitled "The Wealthy Atheist". So far 3 Chapters have been posted. I am looking for Chapter 4.
The lucky winner will become an author on my blog PLUS they will receive $1 (the cash may go up) to their paypal account (must have paypal account in order to receive payment).
In order to qualify to win you MUST continue the story (Chapter 4) on the storymash.com site. Only continuations (Chapter 4) posted on the storymash.com site will qualify for the prize (of authorship on my blog AND cash).
The deadline is Thursday, April 30, 2009 12:00(midnight) EST (US) - just a few days away. The winner will be announced on Saturday, May 2, 2009 on this blog.
Good luck everyone. God bless...
MJ
There is still time to be an author on my blog for FREE AND make a little money in the process.
To recap I am having a story continuation contest. The story is one of my christian fiction entitled "The Wealthy Atheist". So far 3 Chapters have been posted. I am looking for Chapter 4.
The lucky winner will become an author on my blog PLUS they will receive $1 (the cash may go up) to their paypal account (must have paypal account in order to receive payment).
In order to qualify to win you MUST continue the story (Chapter 4) on the storymash.com site. Only continuations (Chapter 4) posted on the storymash.com site will qualify for the prize (of authorship on my blog AND cash).
The deadline is Thursday, April 30, 2009 12:00(midnight) EST (US) - just a few days away. The winner will be announced on Saturday, May 2, 2009 on this blog.
Good luck everyone. God bless...
MJ
Sunday, April 12, 2009
The Real Meaning of Easter
Happy Easter everyone,
Millions of Christians (Christ-followers) around the world are celebrating Easter today. For Christians Easter is not about the easter bunny or easter eggs or any such tradition. Instead it's about the risen Savior: the death, burial and resurrection of the Son of the Living God, Jesus Christ.
The Message Bible puts it the following way:
Luke 24
Looking for the Living One in a Cemetery
1-3 At the crack of dawn on Sunday, the women came to the tomb carrying the burial spices they had prepared. They found the entrance stone rolled back from the tomb, so they walked in. But once inside, they couldn't find the body of the Master Jesus.
4-8 They were puzzled, wondering what to make of this. Then, out of nowhere it seemed, two men, light cascading over them, stood there. The women were awestruck and bowed down in worship. The men said, "Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up. Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?" Then they remembered Jesus' words.
9-11 They left the tomb and broke the news of all this to the Eleven and the rest. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them kept telling these things to the apostles, but the apostles didn't believe a word of it, thought they were making it all up.
12 But Peter jumped to his feet and ran to the tomb. He stooped to look in and saw a few grave clothes, that's all. He walked away puzzled, shaking his head.
I love the way The Message translation (above) puts it: "Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up. Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?" Then they remembered Jesus' words.
It's the real message, the real story, behind Easter: the death, burial (and most importantly), the RESURRECTION of Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.
The New Living Translation puts it this way:
Luke 24
The Resurrection
1 But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. 2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 3 So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.
5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”
8 Then they remembered that he had said this. 9 So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. 11 But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it. 12 However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.
The New Living Translation puts it slightly different, but it's the same core message: “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”
It's all about Jesus today, The Risen One, The Living One, The Son of the Living God, The Savior: Jesus Christ!
Praise God!
MJ
Millions of Christians (Christ-followers) around the world are celebrating Easter today. For Christians Easter is not about the easter bunny or easter eggs or any such tradition. Instead it's about the risen Savior: the death, burial and resurrection of the Son of the Living God, Jesus Christ.
The Message Bible puts it the following way:
Luke 24
Looking for the Living One in a Cemetery
1-3 At the crack of dawn on Sunday, the women came to the tomb carrying the burial spices they had prepared. They found the entrance stone rolled back from the tomb, so they walked in. But once inside, they couldn't find the body of the Master Jesus.
4-8 They were puzzled, wondering what to make of this. Then, out of nowhere it seemed, two men, light cascading over them, stood there. The women were awestruck and bowed down in worship. The men said, "Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up. Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?" Then they remembered Jesus' words.
9-11 They left the tomb and broke the news of all this to the Eleven and the rest. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them kept telling these things to the apostles, but the apostles didn't believe a word of it, thought they were making it all up.
12 But Peter jumped to his feet and ran to the tomb. He stooped to look in and saw a few grave clothes, that's all. He walked away puzzled, shaking his head.
I love the way The Message translation (above) puts it: "Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up. Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?" Then they remembered Jesus' words.
It's the real message, the real story, behind Easter: the death, burial (and most importantly), the RESURRECTION of Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.
The New Living Translation puts it this way:
Luke 24
The Resurrection
1 But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. 2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 3 So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.
5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”
8 Then they remembered that he had said this. 9 So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. 11 But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it. 12 However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.
The New Living Translation puts it slightly different, but it's the same core message: “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”
It's all about Jesus today, The Risen One, The Living One, The Son of the Living God, The Savior: Jesus Christ!
Praise God!
MJ
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Wealth is...
Hello everyone,
When most people think about the word wealth, they automatically think money and finances and possessions. I can't say I blame anyone who thinks this way as we were all trained to think this way.
As for me I have been retraining myself to think differently. So I'd like to share the following definition of wealth.
(Disclaimer: I did not come up with this definition. It's courtesy the Think Rich Team). Wealth is a balance of physical and mental health, spiritual fulfillment, family happiness, true friendships, love, social kindness, the development of wisdom through knowledge and understanding, and financial prosperity.
As can be seen by this definition, wealth has to do with so much more than just finances. It is financial, social, spiritual, physical, mental, etc. I like this definition because it is not limited. It is actually pretty encompassing.
Do you have another definition of wealth? If so I'd love for you to share.
God bless..
MJ
When most people think about the word wealth, they automatically think money and finances and possessions. I can't say I blame anyone who thinks this way as we were all trained to think this way.
As for me I have been retraining myself to think differently. So I'd like to share the following definition of wealth.
(Disclaimer: I did not come up with this definition. It's courtesy the Think Rich Team). Wealth is a balance of physical and mental health, spiritual fulfillment, family happiness, true friendships, love, social kindness, the development of wisdom through knowledge and understanding, and financial prosperity.
As can be seen by this definition, wealth has to do with so much more than just finances. It is financial, social, spiritual, physical, mental, etc. I like this definition because it is not limited. It is actually pretty encompassing.
Do you have another definition of wealth? If so I'd love for you to share.
God bless..
MJ
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Thankful Thursday, Despite....
Hey everyone,
Well it's been another Thursday, or as my good friend Mike Spillman (Future You University) has dubbed it "Thankful Thursday". It's a day to be thankful, grateful, looking for, seeing and being appreciative of the positive around you. Is this always possible though?
It may be "Thankful Thursday", a day when you should be thankful (and every day should be like that really), but it's kind of hard to be thankful when your life doesn't quite go the way you'd like it, isn't it? I mean not every day is going to turn out the way you'd like it so what do you do on those days?
I've been confronted with this question lately and my answer is simply: keep being thankful, grateful, positive and appreciative of the positive that surrounds you on a daily basis. I've had to take this advice of mine today (and every day lately). It seems that since my post on Attitude Tune-Up, my attitude's been tested daily. Go figure right?
My point is that despite the apparent tests of my attitude I've still somehow managed to stay pretty positive and upbeat. I'd like to take credit for that but quite frankly it's had little to do with me and a lot to do with my faith.
As you may or may not know, I'm a Christian, or as I like to refer to myself, a Christ-follower. I have to say that it's been my relationship with Christ that has kept me going a lot lately. I do believe that if it hadn't been for Christ (whose death, burial and resurrection the entire church world will be celebrating shortly), I probably wouldn't make it from day to day.
For that alone I'd like to thank Him and I'm so thankful and grateful and appreciative for. It's kind of odd (I think) how He's kept me going, how He's kept reminding me that He loves me. He's done it a lot lately mainly through my little nieces. Being around them, and sometimes just thinking about them, brings such joy to my life and reminds me that despite every thing life brings our way sometimes, I still have a lot to be thankful for.
Of course my little nieces hasn't been the only way He's reminded me of His constant love for me, nor consequently are they the only thing I have to be grateful and thankful for. I am blessed to still have my parents around and kicking. I'm blessed to be able to get up every day virtually pain free, take a deep breath, eat great meals, wear cool clothes (it tends to get pretty hot here in Belize), etc (you get the point).
So this brings me back to my original question: is it possible to be thankful, grateful, looking for, seeing and being appreciative of the positive around you all the time? While it may not be the easiest thing to do ALL the time, it is certainly possible. I mean, you're still breathing aren't you? So that alone should be where you can start. As for me, I pray I always remain thankful, no matter what happens in my life or in the lives of those I care about.
God bless..
MJ
Well it's been another Thursday, or as my good friend Mike Spillman (Future You University) has dubbed it "Thankful Thursday". It's a day to be thankful, grateful, looking for, seeing and being appreciative of the positive around you. Is this always possible though?
It may be "Thankful Thursday", a day when you should be thankful (and every day should be like that really), but it's kind of hard to be thankful when your life doesn't quite go the way you'd like it, isn't it? I mean not every day is going to turn out the way you'd like it so what do you do on those days?
I've been confronted with this question lately and my answer is simply: keep being thankful, grateful, positive and appreciative of the positive that surrounds you on a daily basis. I've had to take this advice of mine today (and every day lately). It seems that since my post on Attitude Tune-Up, my attitude's been tested daily. Go figure right?
My point is that despite the apparent tests of my attitude I've still somehow managed to stay pretty positive and upbeat. I'd like to take credit for that but quite frankly it's had little to do with me and a lot to do with my faith.
As you may or may not know, I'm a Christian, or as I like to refer to myself, a Christ-follower. I have to say that it's been my relationship with Christ that has kept me going a lot lately. I do believe that if it hadn't been for Christ (whose death, burial and resurrection the entire church world will be celebrating shortly), I probably wouldn't make it from day to day.
For that alone I'd like to thank Him and I'm so thankful and grateful and appreciative for. It's kind of odd (I think) how He's kept me going, how He's kept reminding me that He loves me. He's done it a lot lately mainly through my little nieces. Being around them, and sometimes just thinking about them, brings such joy to my life and reminds me that despite every thing life brings our way sometimes, I still have a lot to be thankful for.
Of course my little nieces hasn't been the only way He's reminded me of His constant love for me, nor consequently are they the only thing I have to be grateful and thankful for. I am blessed to still have my parents around and kicking. I'm blessed to be able to get up every day virtually pain free, take a deep breath, eat great meals, wear cool clothes (it tends to get pretty hot here in Belize), etc (you get the point).
So this brings me back to my original question: is it possible to be thankful, grateful, looking for, seeing and being appreciative of the positive around you all the time? While it may not be the easiest thing to do ALL the time, it is certainly possible. I mean, you're still breathing aren't you? So that alone should be where you can start. As for me, I pray I always remain thankful, no matter what happens in my life or in the lives of those I care about.
God bless..
MJ
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