How to Become a Millionaire Instantly

They say “Love is more precious than gold”
Can’t be bought and it can’t be sold
I got love enough to spare
That makes me a millionaire

Chris Stapleton

I heard this song the other day, as I have many other days. However, this was the first time where I truly listened to the lyrics and made the connection to the message of the song. It says that it’s not gold, silver, or dollars that really makes us millionaires. Instead, it’s an abundance of love and great relationships that really makes us rich.

We would all love to have more money in our lives. However, taking from the message of this song, let us not focus on how we can bring more currency into our lives. Let us focus instead on that abundant love of God that inhabits all people and things. Let us appreciate the good we have, and the good in others. That would make us true millionaires.

Now, I am writing a part 2 to this for anyone inquiring about the dollars and cents side of a million dollars. My mind reading skills are telling me some people are feeling like they’ve been ripped off by my title. So is it possible to be a millionaire instantly? I say yes, but please listen to my reasoning.

Just like the example above about being loving and thankful, I believe we can be millionaires without having a cent in our hands or in the bank. It’s a matter of simply playing the part. Think about this for a minute. If you actually had a million dollars in the bank, how would that make you feel? For me, I would feel free to do the things I want to do. I would feel more confident. I would feel far less stress. I would certainly be thankful and would have the desire to help as many people as I could.

The key is to focus on these feelings instead of your circumstances. For a moment at least, ignore the fact that you may not actually have a million dollars. Can you still be thankful for the things you have? Can you still have the freedom to do at least something that you want to do? Can you act more confidently and joyfully? I believe the answers to all of these questions is yes! And I believe further, that if you act as you would if you were truly a millionaire, then that puts you at the status of well…. a millionaire!!

When you do this, a funny thing happens….more money actually ends up at your disposal!! It may not actually add up to a million dollars, at least not yet. However, when you live as close as you can to the million dollar lifestyle, you’ll be amazed of how much this can start to be a reality.

I very much appreciate the excellent reminder I received yesterday. The true millionaire is not always the one with the big bucks in the bank. It is the one who fully demonstrates an attitude of love, joy, and simply being the best they can be, living life freely and abundantly. Isn’t that what you would hopefully be doing if you had the money in your pocket? I wish you the best, and hope you feel like a million dollars today 🙂

4 Simple Ways to Fix the “What’s Wrong With Me” Mentality

What’s wrong with me? It’s a question that is asked all too often, especially when things aren’t going the way you want them to go. Perhaps you’ve gone through some bad relationships (or you haven’t had any). Maybe your health is failing you or you are having difficulty losing weight. Maybe you are working yourself into the ground and your bank account is shrinking instead of growing.

Any time things aren’t working, it’s easy to question yourself. However, I am here to tell you there is nothing wrong with you. In fact, there are so many things right with you. It’s a matter of learning from any mistakes you make, and focusing on your best qualities and allowing them to shine through.

If you are looking for ways to fix what you believe is wrong with you, I share several in this article How to Fix What’s Wrong With You. These guidelines have helped me end my pity parties and focus my mind on things that will empower me instead of bring me down. I know they can work for you too. Enjoy the blessings 🙂

A Positive Way to Pursuade Others

If only they would see it from my point of view. Have you ever thought or said this? It’s frustrating when you are trying to get others to see your point, follow your expectations, or you are simply unable to persuade someone to take a certain course of action.

Some people do have the power of persuasion. It seems no matter who, and no matter what the circumstance, these people can persuade others easily, and they often do it without resentment. You may think…if only I can do the same!

I share this because I was recently reminded of a subtle, yet powerful way to persuade others. It originates from the days of Socrates, and it is described by Dale Carnegie in his book “How to Win Friends and Influence People”.

What’s the secret formula? It is simply the ability to get the other person to say YES! It makes sense, doesn’t it? After all, yes is the most positive word in the English language. Your job is to get the other person to say yes as many times as possible. You accomplish this by asking questions that you know will bring a yes answer.

I began practicing this idea years ago, and I can tell you that it works wonders. As a teacher, I can tell you that it works very well in the classroom.  In order to persuade my students to follow my classroom expectations I have several options…I can drill them into their heads, I can bring negative behaviors to their attention every time, or I can use this method. Instead of nagging about what they’ve done wrong, I address it in a different way. For example…” don’t you think it would be easier for you to get good grades when you remain focused in the classroom? “Do you want to stay out of the detention room?” “Do you think other students will be more respectful to you if you are nicer to them?” These are just a few examples. Which one of the methods above works the best? I think even on an 8th-grade level the answer is obvious. It’s a softer approach, yet the message gets through loud and clear. I am addressing, yet avoiding focus on the negative. And the best part is that the other person is making up their own mind instead of me telling them what’s right.

I use it in my personal relationships as well. If I am having a disagreement with my wife, I can either throw my opinion at her and claim adamantly that I am right, or I can ask questions to try to get yes answers. Even if she still doesn’t agree, I’ve kept the peace, and at least I have her thinking about my point of view instead of completely turning her off to it. The same is true when I try to teach my own daughters life lessons. Two of the three are teens, and the other one is close. I’m not going to get anywhere with them if I criticize or simply state what’s right and what’s not. If I can get them to answer yes to my questions, I am again leaving it up to them to consider the positives of my expectations or point of view. I am much more likely to persuade them this way.

I recommend this approach the next time you need to convince someone of something. I am not talking about controlling people here. I am simply sharing an effective, peaceful, and powerful way to help others see your point of view and persuade them (not force them) to a particular course of action. Perhaps you are a parent trying to persuade your child to make the right decision. Perhaps you are a leader at work trying to motivate an employee. Or maybe you are simply trying to end a debate peacefully and productively. Whatever it is, I believe this concept will help you accomplish it. This is because the other person will be more open and accepting of what you are saying, they are making up their own mind, and even if you don’t fully persuade them, you will still most likely gain their agreement and maintain their respect.

So what do you think? Is this something that would make your life better?

 

A Selfish Way To Positively Impact Many People

If you are like me, you have a sincere desire to positively impact those around you.  I am constantly trying to find ways to better serve others and bring people to a higher level. In fact, that’s the main reason for this blog!

I once read a very interesting fact in a Wayne Dyer book (I’ve actually read many interesting facts in his books). It said that when we are in a high emotional state, we can impact many people because of it. This is not only true for those around us, but it says this high energy you create can impact many beyond people your realm. He also says that if your energy is negative, it can have negative effects. He jokes to watch your energy level because you could be potentially depressing someone in Bulgaria(or whatever far away place) right now.

At first, I questioned how this could be true. However, I went with it because I know the importance of maintaining a positive, high energy emotional field. However, as I’ve learned more, I realize the potential we have to impact many.

I have learned a great deal lately about the power of connection. In fact, I recently wrote an article about it that you can check out here..https://powerofpies.wordpress.com/2013/07/16/a-connection-to-an-old-commercial/ 

How does this power of connection help you impact people? This principle states that you are connected to everything and everybody in this universe. This is because the Godly spirit that is a part of you is a part of everything else.

Ok, so how can I take advantage of this connection to positively impact those around me. you ask? My answer may seem very ironic at first. However, once you read the explanation, I believe the light will go on for you as it did for me. In order to impact the most people, you need to…pay strict attention and focus on giving the absolute best to….YOU!

Have I lost you yet? How can focusing on the supreme best for you help others? Again, it’s all in the principle of connection. You are connected to everything. When you enhance the good for you and take yourself to the absolute highest positive energy level, you are automatically doing it for everyone else. Since you are connected to everyone else on this planet, when you shine your own light brighter, you are literally shining the spiritual light of everyone else. You are adding energy to the universal light if you will.

This can enhance your life in other ways too. For example, if you want to “add light” to your bank account, just increase your positive vibration when you think about money. Know that you are connected to every single dollar in the universe. When you increase your own positive vibration about money, you are in turn increasing the positive vibration for all money as a whole. As a result, you attract more to yourself. I believe this is one of the big reasons that the world’s economic situation is as difficult as it is. There are so many individual minds thinking negatively about money that it impacts the negative energy about money itself as a whole.

Remember that you are connected to everything and everybody in this universe. Which part of that connection do you have total control of? That would be you. I remind you again that when you maximize the positivity and greatness of your part of that connection (which you automatically have in the Spirit of God that is part of you), you maximize the qualities of the connection as a whole. In this case, it’s OK to be selfish because in your “selfish” act of making yourself better, you are automatically taking everyone and everything else with you. Hopefully that’s a great idea you can connect with. Enjoy the blessings : )

A Connection To An Old Commercial

I don’t know about you, but for some reason I have a fascination with TV commercials. I enjoy watching some of them today, and have fond memories of commercials of the past.

As I was doing some reading the other day, an old commercial was brought to mind. It’s an AT&T commercial from a while back where the theme is that “we’re all connected”. Makes sense for a phone company, right?

It brings me to the theme of my message for today. It’s about…you guessed it…connection. Don’t get me wrong, I like the theme of the commercial. Their phone service certainly makes it possible to connect with people and places. However,  that’s not exactly what I want to talk about today.

I would like to remind you that you are already connected to everybody and everything. How? It’s simply your Creator. Think about it. The spirit of God is a part of you. This same spirit is a part of everyone else. We are all part of it, meaning we are all connected in that way. A good visual of this is provided at our Christmas Eve church service each year. There is a giant candle at the front of the church. Each individual has their own candle that they light from that big one. As a result, each one of shines our individual light brightly, but the source of the light is from the “original”

It’s the same for you and me. We each have that spiritual light shining through us that comes from the same source. Do you ever wonder one of the reasons we are supposed to love our neighbor as ourselves? In essence, when you love and respect someone else, you are loving and respecting part of yourself!

The same is true for the material things and situations we are seeking. The same God that created you also created the money, house, job, car, talent, or whatever it is you are seeking. Your goals and desires are already a part of you because it originates from the same energy you are made of.

How can this information help you? When you know you are separate from no one and nothing and you focus on the fact that you are one with the people and things around you, it doesn’t seem so far away or unattainable, does it? For example, let’s say you are seeking more money. You and money are created by the same Creator. You both have the same energy. You are connected. All you have to do is believe it, and you begin the process of manifesting it to you. You will then be inspired with the action to take to allow it to manifest in reality.

When you realize this concept of connection, your relationships with others flow much more smoothly. Once again, when you love and respect other people, you are doing it to yourself because you are made of the same spiritual essence. I believe that’s one of the reasons your relationships suffer when you don’t love yourself. It’s because you are not respecting the same spirit that is also a part of everyone else.

I know that I feel a greater love and respect for those around me when I focus on this idea of connection. I also have a greater faith in my circumstances because I know that I am not separate from them. It’s already part of me, and it’s just  a matter of manifesting the goal.

I know the same will be true for you too. Focus on this idea that you are connected to everyone and everything. It will really make a difference in you life. I can attest to it. If you will excuse me, my phone is ringing. Remember, we are all connected. Have a wonderful day : )

I Want To Be Like My Dog

I am very happy that God made me a human being. We have many more powers and are more taken care of than any other creature on this earth. I wouldn’t want to be anything else.

You may ask…why am I saying I want to be like my dog? There’s one characteristic my dog and most others have that many humans have difficulty accomplishing. That trait…unconditional love. When I come home from work or from being out for a while, my dog comes running to the door with a warm, enthusiastic greeting. It doesn’t matter if she’s tired. It doesn’t matter if she had a rough day. It doesn’t matter if I scolded here the day before, or did not provide a great deal of attention. Regardless, the dog comes running and shows me all the love she can.

I challenge myself and anyone reading to demonstrate the same unconditional love as dogs do. Whether it’s been a rough day, or you’re in a bad mood, or the bank account is low, or someone criticized you, or whatever is bringing you down. Do all you can to love others unconditionally, and with the same sincerity and enthusiasm as a dog that’s happy to see you.

When you demonstrate this type of love, two great things happen. One is that you are more at peace with yourself. After all, we are created to love, and we are commanded by God to do so. The second thing is that when you demonstrate sincere, unconditional love to others, it comes back to you multiplied. It’s no wonder people love dogs so much. You will be loved and adored as well.

Who can you love unconditionally today? Find as many people as you can, and show the same love and enthusiasm towards those people as you can. You and they will be blessed in a major way. I ask that you now excuse me. I need to go pet my dog. Have a wonderful day : )

How To Be A Great Conversationalist

There are several people I know that I consider to be great conversationalists. People seem drawn to them and they are never short on people to talk to. Many people would be honored to be called a great conversationalist. I have had people tell me they enjoyed conversations with me, and I cherish that feeling.

You may ask, is there a simple formula to be or become someone people want to talk to? Can you become one of the people I mentioned above, where people crave your company? I believe anyone can be a great conversationalist. In fact, it’s so simple to do, I can provide one word of advice. Are you ready?…..

The simple key is to….LISTEN!!! The best conversationalists are those that listen well and let the other person do most of the talking. The fact is, every human being thinks what they have to say is important. If you’re the one who lets them say it, and demonstrate sincere interest in what they are saying, you will have a friend for life. Those people will continuously seek your company. I’ve seen it with other people, as well as myself. I’ve had conversations where I did very little talking, and listened intently on what the other person had to say. I was told how much they enjoyed talking to me, and how they couldn’t wait to do it again. I barely said a word!

I will say it again. People cherish the opportunity to express themselves and say things they believe to be important. They also long for anyone who is willing to listen and appreciate them. When you listen well and allow people the opportunity to express themselves, you won’t have to say anything. People will automatically seek your company, and you will never be short of friends.

This philosophy works extremely well in business as well. For years I worked as a customer service supervisor, handling complaints from angry customers. In almost all cases, the situation was resolved much easier when, instead of preaching our company’s policies, I listened and let the customer express their frustrations and concerns. They appreciated that opportunity, and were much more workable for a mutual solution.

I challenge you to monitor your conversations today. Let the other person do most of the talking. Listen intently, demonstrate sincere interest, and encourage them to talk even more. I can almost guarantee they will think very highly of you, and will tell you and others how much they enjoy your company.

I think it’s time for me to practice what I preach. I’m doing too much of the talking here, so I turn it over to you. Please share your valuable opinions. I am listening intently!

Two Ways To Improve Your Relationships

One of the great means of peace while living on this earth is pleasant relationships. It’s not always easy. It is wonderful that God has blessed us with different personalities, gifts, and points of view. However, because of these differences, it is sometimes difficult to live in harmony.

I was doing some reading today about mind focus, and as I reflected, I was lead to two simple ways to enhance and improve any relationship.

Before I share, I will say that one word can make all the difference. That word is focus. Here’s how:

1. Focus on your best self. At this point you may ask, “aren’t we supposed to focus on the other person’s needs to help the relationship grow?” I will answer yes. However, you cannot give to someone else unless you are aware of your own positive qualities and strong points. When you focus on your own goodness, beauty, and talents you will feel like you have more to give away. Also, the more you love yourself for who you are, the more you will love others for who they are.

2. Focus on the best in others. It is so easy to focus on the faults of others, and the things they do that we don’t like. We all do it at some point, no matter how hard we try not to. The problem is that the more you dwell on the negative traits of others, the more likely you are to see them continuously. The good news is that the opposite is true. When you focus on the beautiful, positive qualities of others, you tend to see those qualities more often. You enjoy their company more. Even if they still do some of those things you don’t like, you are more likely to look past them and not allow them to bother you like they did before.

If you can focus on these two simple ideas, you will immediately see positive changes in your relationships that may be difficult. I have seen it in my own life. The relationship between my wife and I is still far from perfect. However, it is much better than it was simply because both of us decided to focus on being the best people we could be, and trying to focus on the positive qualities of the other. We still communicate any differences, but if there are any disagreements, they are handled in a much more cordial manner. Following these simple ideas has taken a great deal of stress off our relationship.

If you are struggling with any relationship today, I challenge you to focus on these simple, easy to do guidelines. It may not instantly take away all negativity, but you will see immediate positive changes. Enjoy the blessings : )

Dare To Believe

It’s amazing how I’ve read certain quotes or Bible verses countless times, and then, just once, it stands out so powerfully. One such verse is 2 Corinthians 5:7. it says we walk by faith, not by sight.

I often discuss this concept on this site, yet sometimes forget to follow it myself. When I do follow the advice and walk by faith, great things happen, many of which I didn’t even see coming. The same is true for you or anyone else.

What is walking by faith? It is living by the definition of faith, which is the assurance of things hoped for and the certainty of what we do not see. You can do this in several ways. First, you need to know exactly what you want. Then, you visualize it taking place. Along with visualizing, it is very important to feel success. Enjoy the positive feelings you would feel if your goal was actually being realized. Another important point is to live by the “as if” philosophy. Be and do as if you alredy have what you want.

This is a great way to build your faith. We often don’t believe like we should because we don’t see the results. For example, people want more peaceful relationships, but they still see strife. We want more money, but still see the low bank balance. We want health and energy but still see a higher number on the scale. When you visualize the success you are seeking, you are walking by faith, regardless of what you see. In fact, when you are visualizing, you are seeing your success.

God provides miracles for people who believe. When you walk by faith you are setting yourself up for those miracles. Then you will also see the success you are dreaming about. I dare you to believe : )

How To Create More Problems In Your Life

I was discussing the concept of reverse psychology with someone the other day. It’s funny that it especially works with kids. You know, when you purposely tell them to do one thing when you want them to do another. For example, when you say “don’t smile”, and actually get them to smile.

I figured I would try to use reverse psychology on this blog today. The above title goes against something I would usually write about. My goal is positivity and to assist myself and others avoid problems instead of creating them. We’ll see if it works  in getting your attention and the point of what I have to say today : )

The sad thing is that most people create their own problems in life. Yes, I know some good people get bad breaks and situations they totally don’t deserve. However, what most people don’t realize is that they create many of their own problems, and continue to make them worse. Some do this in a completely unconscious manner.

What is one way you or anyone else can create more problems in life? Drum roll please…the best way to add more problems to life is to complain. We all do it. Unfortunately when you do, it just adds fuel to the fire.

I often share about the power of the mind, and that we receive what we think about. When you complain, you are thinking about the problem and focusing on it whether you relaize it or not. The result is that you receive and experience more of the problem. Is your boss making things difficult for you at work? Gossiping about it to the other employees will only make it worse. That’s because it is what you are focusing on. Lamenting that your bank account balance is too low? Once again, the continuous focus on it will only bring more red instead of black. Sharing about how your spouse or partner is getting on your nerves? I don’t think I have to say it again. Hopefully you are figuring out that complaining only makes a bad situation worse because you are focusing your thoughts on that negative situation.

How do we reverse the negative trend? Simply focus on the solution. Instead of communicating about the negative situation in your life, think and talk about the positive that it will create. For example, if the problem is at work, focus on the fact that this will motivate you to do better work or the new, better job you will find as a result. If money is the issue, think about having a fat bank account and focus your efforts and actions on making it happen. If you are having relationship difficulties, think about all of the positive traits of that person, and picture the relationship you want to have. Then act towards that positive goal.

I conclude with the reminder that we receive what we focus our thoughts on. When you complain, you are placing your focus on the negative situation, thus creating more of it. When you focus on the solution or the ultimate goal, your action will coincide, thus moving you away from the negative, and towards the desired outcome. That is certainly not something to complain about : ) Have an excellent day!