tune in. tune UP.

Make it count.

2011-12-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

The opportunity of a lifetime just presented itself to you.

What are you going to do?

This is the moment you have been waiting for, the day you'd thought would never come. The pressure you have been facing prior to this moment was intense, but now you are dealing with a new kind of intensity.

What are you going to do?

You put your heart and soul into this opportunity. You decide you WILL...

...make it count!

Keep it simple.

2011-12-05T14:51:00.000-08:00

We were taught the K.I.S.S. theory in school, but somewhere along the way complicated and extensive came to make us look smarter, feel better.

That was then.
This is now.

Keep it simple. Stupid.
There is so much chatter and matter in the world, that the only way we are going to survive is to simplify.

Simplify or die.
That was dramatic.

Keep is simple.

Dis'. Point. Meant?

2011-03-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

It is impossible to go through life without disappointment. There are going to be situations where you are disappointed by others and situations where you disappoint others.

You will dis' other people.

The behavior will point to you, the action will point towards others.

What is meant by the behavior and action will be discussed.

Dis. Point. Meant = Disappointment.

The best way to move forward in a world of disappointment is to realize this is an unavoidable aspect of life that EVERYbody has to deal with. Take the "personal" out of it and move on, but do try to work on behavior of yours that tends to disappoint others. Selfishness is one such behavior that can cause much disappointment. Laziness is another. Try and put other people first every so often.

Work on it, that's all you can do.

The more we practice, the better we get.

faith, sometimes you wait.

2011-03-11T06:21:00.000-08:00

Where do you find faith?

Is it always there when you need it?

Sometimes we must wait for faith. It is always there deep down inside of us, in many different forms. Some find faith in a church, some find faith in people, some find faith in themselves, but often we must wait for faith.

The amount of negative distractions and situations in the world can easily suppress the best of faith, in the best of people. What seems to work best for me is going to the place where I most find faith and wait.

Wait for faith.

This is why this blog is coming to you from my garden this morning. The garden is where I tend to find my faith. Coincidence that the garden is a place of growth?

I don't think so.

Keep the faith.

two words. snow day.

2011-02-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

In Texas, there are two words that tend to emit more enthusiasm and wonder among all children and some adults.

These two words are:

Snow day.

As anyone knows, it doesn't snow that often or much in Texas, especially South, Central Texas, where this blog originates. When it does, you will experience a level of energy and euphoria like no other. The joy that overcomes most is so positively infectious, I wish I could bottle it.

The reason?

I speak about this subject often.

It's unexpected.

This is why "snow day" in the South is so powerful. It is unexpected, so when it happens, it is well received, to say the least.

What if, we lived our lives like this and did unexpected things for family, friends and even strangers. What if, by our actions, we created the same kind of wonder and euphoria snow days do?

What if?

Surprise someone today with behavior that is unexpected and watch what happens.

Make it snow.

those simple things.

2011-01-31T18:34:00.000-08:00

Spending a cold, rainy day inside playing with your kids.

Sharing a pizza and watching a movie with the love of your life.

Taking photographs that inspire you.

Getting your garden in shape for a new growing season.

Having a cup of coffee with an old friend.

Those simple things that mean so much.

Know them, cherish them.

just say no-no to yo-yo.

2011-01-20T06:38:00.000-08:00

I received a NY Times headline in my email box. I get several every day to keep me in touch with the world. Unfortunately, the headlines are usually depressing. Below is what this particular headline and story intro said:

"House Votes to Repeal Health Care Law"

The House on Wednesday voted to repeal the Democrats'
landmark health care overhaul, in a largely symbolic step
that the new Republican majority said marked the beginning of
an all-out effort to dismantle President Obama's signature
domestic policy achievement.

Need I say more about the political system in our country. I don't like politics. This is why. I have written and spoken about the subject of politics in the past. My main issue with politics is it is designed to fail. One side, sometimes two, trying to negate the advancement of new ideas or any ideas of the other side.

The results?

One step forward. Three steps back.

It is easy to understand why people get tired of yo-yo politics and disengage from contributing their votes, time, etc... I know how excited and inspired I was about the idea of (real) change, hope and progress, only to be discouraged and my enthusiasm completely sucked out of me, thanks to this desire of one side dismantling the other side.

It's time for a re-design of the political system and for all of us to step forward, time after time. As I have said in the past, this sort of management style, business development style, would have kept successful companies like Apple Computer or Microsoft from getting where they are today, which is having a major impact on how we live and work.

It's time to say no-no to yo-yo!!!

easy reputations.

2011-01-13T11:05:00.000-08:00

What's your reputation?

How did you get it?

When the spotlight is not pointing in your direction, it will be your reputation that shines, or not.

Developing a reputation takes much effort and much consistency.

I am known for a few things. Some more pleasant than others, such as being known for not being easy. This has been consistently agreed upon by a variety of people in a variety of relationships.

Is easy good or bad?

If you are easy, then you probably have lots of friends because people want easy people around, so they can do what they want, while the easy people just go along. In the workplace, easy people do not challenge the status quo. Bosses love easy people. Companies that don't like change or progress can't have enough easy people.

"Easy does it" is a popular phrase in America. I have always translated the message to mean, slow down with your forward thinking. Many associate it with calming someone (like me) down who is obviously riled up about something.

Like all things in life, there is a place and time for easy. For me, that time and place is in sight.

life changing video.

2011-01-08T14:10:00.000-08:00

This past week the life of a homeless man in Ohio was completely turned around.

By a video.

While standing on a corner, holding a sign that mentioned what he perceived as to be his most worthwhile attribute, his voice, he was encountered by a newsman, with a camera.

The rest as they say, is history.

I spotted the video online last Monday, and watched it. I posted it on my facebook page and so did many of the 4,000,000 people that had already viewed it at that point. By Tuesday, one day later, more than 11,000,000 people had seen it. By Friday, he was The Today Show, had several job offers and a new home offer.

Because of video.

The video was pulled from the internet by the news company and re-posted online. Millions more continue to watch the video and feel hope, real, actual hope.

honor thy father. in the yard?

2011-01-06T11:43:00.000-08:00

My Dad passed away 22 years ago. Hard to believe it's been that long.

I keep one of my Dad's favorite hats hanging in the garden, from an 11 year old Wisteria plant that awes and inspires everyone who sees it every spring. In the dead of winter in Austin (70 degrees), the plant is simply an entanglement of roots. Still looks cool if you ask me.

Why?

The hat makes me think of my Dad and makes me smile. The hat says Hawaii. It was a keepsake from one of my parent's cruises. My Dad was always on vacation (so said my Mom) and enjoyed the concept of going on cruises. Wake up, have coffee, do nothing until happy hour, extend happy hour as long as possible, while looking at the water. Repeat every day, as long as possible.

That was Dad.

A simple man with a passion for the happy (hour).

I have always felt it was important to honor the best moments, the best memories of life. It's a sign of respect for the events that mean so much to you, the individual. When I look at my Dad's hat, I see him wearing it, a J&B Old Fashioned in his right hand, he's wearing a t-shirt with a message of some sort on it (known for that as well) and most important of all, he has a smile on his face.

This is not a memorial to getting loaded at happy hour (yes, there were some of those delightful episodes), but more a reminder to honor those moments in life that bring you joy.

With any luck, you are doing so now and smiling.

I am.

caution to the wind.

2011-01-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

It is easy to get hung up with process and lose sight of opportunity. A mayor once told me that his city council was so consumed with the process of governing, that very little got achieved.

He was right. I lived in his city.

There is value in throwing caution to the wind. All the truly GREAT successes tell stories of risk, not knowing what lay ahead, of doing what others thought was wrong or crazy.

If you want to grow your business, improve your life, live your dreams, playing it safe won't cut it.

It's getting windy.

gahley gee whiz.

2011-01-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

My wife, Dahlia, went to Starbucks the other day. She visits this particular Starbucks too much. She is NOT a stranger there. When asked her name, numerous times I might add, the name she was given was:

gahley (golly?)

Really?

Gahley gee wiz, this is not even close to her name. Her name is Dahlia. She goes to this Starbucks several times a week for the past couple of YEARS!!!

Gahley? Really?

How about we start calling the over priced coffee shop - Barstucks?

I speak on this subject often, too much probably, but it is time to rally the troops of the entire universe and start paying attention, to EVERYthing. Our name is the most important thing we have as an individual. It separates us from all other humans. Our name is our identity in the most simplest of forms. We don't call NIKE "a shoe company", it's NIKE. Coca Cola is not "a dark colored beverage", it's Coca Cola.

Get it right.

It's Dahlia, not Gahley.

All of us must pay more attention to the details of life. Especially people's names.

Please.

begin.

2011-01-03T10:23:00.000-08:00

Half the challenge in starting new projects, new ways of thinking, new ways of behaving, new resolutions, etc... is starting.

You must begin.

For many of us, Jan. 1st is the ideal start date. Stir things up a little and relieve the pressure of a start date that has already passed.

Start on the 10th, but start.

You must begin.

end of year. out of steam, not the dream!

2010-12-31T11:58:00.000-08:00

The year started with me averaging 30 entries per month for this blog. Wow!!! The year is ending with only one blog written this month (for this particular blog - I write others).

Sad?

Disappointing?

Typical?

Yes.

The steam behind a project, an idea, an activity almost always tends to fade away. Much like the steam of a train engine that fades away after the train gets going.

Does this represent failure?

Only if you allow it to.

The reality of my blog writing and it's consistency is that my life, like many other lives out there, is busy and has the occasional "oh shit" moments, like a house fire that puts you in a hotel room with your entire family for more than 3 months. You think you know your family well. I'm here to tell you, you don't! Until you share a room for 3 months with your family, then and only then, you will know them well (ha).

Was my blog enjoyed by many and change my life?

No.

Did my life improve as a result of my blog?

Yes.

Example?

One reader, out of a very small group of followers, was inspired enough by one of my blogs to send me a gift. I had always wanted a particular item, but had never bought it for myself, making timely excuses every chance I had. I now look at the designer object everyday in my kitchen. Life got a little better because of that kind act resulting from a reader paying attention to what I was saying in my blog.

Is my blog leading me to a career of writing?

Definitely.

I come from good writers, who did not pursue writing and I want to be a great writer. I want to write at the beach and in the mountains. I want to write for kids and adults and I want to make people laugh. Life can be very funny. There is much to write about.

The last words I would like to write this year, in this blog, are two of the most important I know...

...thank you.

(all writers need readers)

stud spud.

2010-11-30T08:43:00.000-08:00

During the 1950's, an inventor named George Lerner had a vision:

Transform vegetables into toys for kids.

Crazy?

Yes!

The idea was simple. Create plastic body parts like ears, nose, mouth, etc... and let kids insert them into a potato or other vegetables. Simple. Fun. Creative. Different. All the characteristics of a great idea. However, Mr. Lerner struggled with the idea at first and settled for selling the idea he now called - Mr. Potato Head, to a cereal company for $5000. The cereal company would use the idea as a promotional giveaway to customers buying cereal.

End of story?

No.

Mr. Lerner believed in his idea so much, he continued searching for toy companies who would like his idea and found a small toy company in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, called Hasbro. The toy manufacturer liked the idea. Mr. Lerner purchased his idea back from the cereal company for $7000.

In 1952, Mr. Potato Head made history as the first toy ever advertised on TV. The toy came with 28 facial features and a Styrofoam shape. The idea finally got the exposure it deserved and the result?

$4,000,000 in sales in just a few months. That's 4 million dollars in 1952 in a few months!!!

In 1953, Mr. Potato Head got married to Mrs. Potato Head. The family eventually grew to include a brother (Spud) and a sister (Yam). In 1964, Mr. Potato Head's body was converted to the plastic shape it is today.

This has been one steady, stud spud.

The lesson here in this great story is obvious. NEVER NEVER NEVER give up on ideas that you believe in. You just might have the next Mr. Potato Head on your hands. Congrats and thanks to George Lerner for his creativity and tenacity.

exercise to maximize.

2010-11-27T13:20:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons why we need to exercise. Here are 5 reasons why our kids should:

Encourages the growth of new brain cells.

Enhances cognitive ability at all ages.

Sparks better behavior in adolescents.

Helps alleviate depression and calm anxiety.

Eases symptoms of ADD.

Get outside with your kids and exercise!!! Everyone wins.

get control of your cravings.

2010-11-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Dr. Daniel Amen is a man on a mission and always has great advice. In the video above he handles the topic of cravings.

Tis' the season to crave, so I thought we could all benefit from these tips.

Listen.
Learn.
Act.
Feel better.

blogs in plain english.

2010-11-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

I often wonder why I blog when there are more than 73 million blogs in the world.

Not anymore.

We are reminded in the beautifully, simplistic video below. Blogs give everyone the opportunity to have a voice and connect with an unlimited amount of people all over the world. Like everything else, the more time and creativity you put into blogging, the better you become. The better you become, the more people will want to follow your blog and the greater impact your blog will have.

Blog on.

join the revolution. socially.

2010-11-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

The Social Media Revolution continues to gain momentum. It's time to revolt or be left behind, socially speaking. Success is often determined on how well we use our resources.

The resources are out there.

Use them!!!

no pain. no gain. palin gains despite the pains.

2010-11-17T17:52:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I am not a fan of Sarah Palin. I am however, a fan of the process of an empire being built, despite all odds.

Sarah Palin, despite losing the 2008 Presidential election with John McCain, is everywhere, and has proven to be quite resilient. Her new tv show "Sarah Palin's Alaska" debuted on TLC recently.

I have to admit, I like the show. Obviously, Alaska is a beautiful place and the imagery is breathtaking. How many places can you be fishing, while two grizzly bears wrestle 10 feet away. My favorite part of the show is when Sarah goes to her makeshift tv studio at home for interviews. I am so jealous. I also enjoy the fact that there is no need for fake scenery behind Sarah, as she is interviewed by the likes of Bill O'Reilly, all from the comfort of her home with a spectacular view and backdrop.

Once again we are reminded of the power that being different can have. Good or bad, Sarah Palin is different and building an empire.

do what you love.

2010-11-14T10:49:00.000-08:00

Do what you love.

Love what you do.

Success will follow.

laugh. a lot.

2010-11-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

I enjoy making people laugh. It turns out I enjoy helping people live longer.

What?

Laughter is a powerful resource. If you are not laughing, you are not maximizing your life experience. Laughter has been proven to benefit your life in many ways. Take a peek at the Reader's Digest article below.

Good stuff. I hope it makes you laugh, more often.

- Scientific evidence has shown that laughter helps people breathe easier and it massages the heart and other vital organs.

It may also increase the release of disease-fighting cells in the immune system. Like exercise, laughter quickens the pulse and stimulates the cardiovascular system. In experiments, students who watched funny movies were found to have an increased flow of infection-fighting proteins in their saliva.

A positive outlook also guards against illness and may even increase longevity. Optimistic World War II veterans followed for 35 years after the war ended developed fewer health problems -- including hypertension, diabetes, and back trouble -- and lived longer than their pessimistic counterparts. Scientists now connect pessimism not only with depression but consider it a risk factor for disease, just like high blood pressure or smoking. Pessimists are more likely to develop physical illnesses when stressed and take longer to recover after surgery.

Children are naturally cheerful, and psychologists speculate that their emotional buoyancy may be part of our species' survival mechanism, that optimism helps protect the young from disease until they can reach puberty and reproduce. Optimism may have helped preserve the species in prehistoric times. Although realism saved cave men and women from being gobbled by tigers, without an optimistic sense of adventure, they would never have ventured away from the cave in the first place.

The funny thing is that I am blessed with good health, as is my mother, and we are rarely ill. As it turns out, we both laugh a lot. I now see the connection!

Ha-Ha.

focus on strengths.

2010-11-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

It makes so much sense, yet rarely happens.

When you focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses, you do better. When you focus on the strengths and not the weaknesses of others, they do better and you do better with them.

This simple process improves every aspect of life, yet we are all guilty of doing the opposite. Work becomes more enjoyable when your boss, co-workers focus on what you do best, not what you do not so well. The same holds true with you in regards to their strengths.

We are trained to think that we can be anything we want to be and to focus on our weaknesses. The truth is that certain "realities", such as a 5 foot body frame, will make being a NBA basketball star incredibly difficult. A successful jockey more than likely ;-)

The point is to drill down on exactly what you are good at and build on that. If you are good at transforming spaces, businesses, individuals, etc... you should work on that skill and develop a career, lifestyle around it. If you are a talented painter, you should develop your painting skills and make sure people see your work. If you enjoy the social aspect of connecting people, get better at connecting people.

The quote below by Benjamin Franklin speaks volumes.

"Hide not your talents. They for use were made. What's a sundial in the shade?"

legacy?

2010-10-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

What is your legacy?

Write it down as you see it.

Review it.

Change it?

gotta have heart.

2010-10-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

Win or lose, you gotta have heart in what you do.

No heart.

No success.

It's really that simple.

perception is everything.

2010-10-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

You see one thing, others sometimes see another thing. It is important to consider the value of perception in all you do, especially when it comes to promoting your personal brand. The brand known as YOU.

What do you stand for?

Do you talk or do you walk?

Actions always speak louder than words.

Always.

make time. 5, 10, 15, 20...

2010-10-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

Setting time aside for new projects, must do's, dreams, etc... often does not happen because we don't have the time.

Time?

Make time.

Start small. 5, 10, 15, 20 minutes. Per month. Per week. Per day.

A letter from The President.

2010-10-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

Below is a letter I received from The President today. I have highlighted what "I feel" is the problem with politics in general - the left works against the right and the right works against the left.

The result of this negatively charged, ongoing, never ending battle is zero advancement for the people that the government is suppose to be serving.

No progress.
No hope.
No improvement.
No growth.

One side will preach about the greatness they have achieved, while the other side preaches about the greatness they have achieved, while the majority of us, especially those out of work, struggling to make ends meet, know the reality of the situation, here on planet earth.

In my opinion, the current political system is designed to work against itself, time and time again. It has also proven to be a breeding ground for some unsavory behavior. No need to mention the endless examples of wrong doing by politicians from both sides, year in and year out.

The solution?

A complete re-design of the political system by non-politicians, who have a history of creating successful ventures that give back to their communities and take care of not just "their own", but all types of people.

The letter:

Rick --

I come into this election with clear eyes.

I am proud of all we have achieved together, but I am mindful of all that remains to be done.

I know some out there are frustrated by the pace of our progress. I want you to know I'm frustrated, too.

But with so much riding on the outcome of this election, I need everyone to get in this game.

Neither one of us is here because we thought it would be easy. Making change is hard. It's what we've said from the beginning. And we've got the lumps to show for it.

The fight this fall is as critical as any this movement has taken on together. And if we are serious about change, we need to fight as hard as we ever have.

The very special interests who have stood in the way of change at every turn want to put their conservative allies in control of Congress. And they're doing it with the help of billionaires and corporate special interests underwriting shadowy campaign ads.

If they succeed, they will not stop at making our work more difficult -- they will do their best to undo what you and I fought so hard to achieve.
There is no better time for you to start fighting back -- a fellow grassroots supporter has promised to match, dollar for dollar, whatever you can chip in today.

Please donate $3 -- and see who wants you to re-commit to this movement.

I know that sometimes it feels like we've come a long way from the hope and excitement of the inauguration, with its "Hope" posters and historic crowds on the National Mall.

I will never forget it. But it was never why we picked up this fight.

I didn't run for president because I wanted to do what would make me popular. And you didn't help elect me so I could read the polls and calculate how to keep myself in office.

You and I are in this because we believe in a simple idea -- that each and every one of us, working together, has the power to move this country forward. We believed that this was the moment to solve the challenges that the country had ignored for far too long.

That change happens only from the bottom up. That change happens only because of you.

So I need you to fight for it over the next 26 days. I need your time. I need your commitment. And I need your help to get your friends and neighbors involved.

If you bring in a new donor today, your $3 donation will become $6. And our Vote 2010 campaign will have twice the resources to make important investments like putting staff on the ground, providing materials for volunteers, and turning out millions of voters come Election Day.

Please donate $3 -- and renew your commitment today:

https://donate.barackobama.com/OctoberMatch

If we meet this test -- if you, like me, believe that change is not a spectator sport -- we will not just win this election. In the years that come, we can realize the change we are seeking -- and reclaim the American dream for this generation.

Thank you for being a part of it,

President Barack Obama

challenge + human = nice

2010-10-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

What makes some people nice and most people not so nice?

After years of research, the following formula has been discovered:

challenge + human = nice

It turns out that people who are given more challenge in their lives are inherently nicer than people who go without or have minimal obstacles. When I say challenge, I mean true difficulty, real stressful conditions, sometimes life threatening situations.

Apparently, challenge brings about a level of awareness and appreciation of the important aspects of life that is well above the normal level most people experience.

Who knew?

I did.

Do you?

obsession combos.

2010-10-04T12:14:00.000-07:00

Do you have obsessions?

I do.

What odd combination of obsessions can you put together?

Here are 3 of mine:

Pizza
Integrity
Soft lighting

Here are 3 more:

Laughter
Coffee
Aliens

Try it.
It's fun and revealing.
And, as a wise young woman once told me - "everything in moderation", even obsessions.

your perfect day?

2010-09-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

What is your perfect day?

Think about it.

Get specific.

No detail is small.

Mine starts with good coffee and snow on the ground. Next is a short walk to the local bakery to surprise the family, when they wake up. It's just stopped snowing and the skies are bright blue. I am a regular at the bakery and enjoy talking to the staff. I buy my treats and head home.

The family is now now up and very happy to see the baked loot waiting for them on the table. The sun is filtering artfully in the kitchen around the large farm table, and modern chairs. The entire family is gathered to have breakfast together. A weekly tradition every Friday.

The kids are off to school, while Mom and Dad simply walk across the yard to their detached studio/office with a fireplace. A day full of creative ideas and inspiration lie ahead, before we pick up the kids at school and head to hockey practice, where Dad is coach.

Dinner is pizza from our favorite Italian restaurant. The owners are from NYC and make the best pizza. After dinner, we all gather in the living room, where we watch some corny reality tv and Dad commentates on the absurdity of it all. Kids off to bed, Mom and Dad sneak into the hot tub on the deck, while it starts to snow again. Hot lemonade and cider and it's a perfect end to a perfect day.

How about your perfect day?

just do it.

2010-09-29T05:33:00.000-07:00

Every so often, there is a slogan that is created and relates to everyone for everything.

Thanks Nike.

Today is a great day to follow this advice.

I'm doing it.
You can be doing it.

how many people make you feel...

2010-09-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

"A dog has no use for fancy cars, big homes, or designer clothes. A water log stick will do just fine. A dog doesn't care if your rich or poor, clever or dull, smart or dumb. Give him your heart and he'll give you his.

How many people can you say that about?

How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special?

How many people can make you feel extraordinary?"

- From the movie Marley & Me.

professional idiots.

2010-09-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

Who in their right mind would want to be a mascot?

Who in their right mind would want to wear a hot, sweaty, stinky costume and act like a fool in front of thousands of people?

Did you know that professional sports teams mascots make between $100,000 and $250,000 a year?

Having second thoughts?

The most famous, successful professional mascot of all time is The Philly Phanatic, pictured above. This green, odd looking character entertained Philadelphia Phillies baseball fans for 17 years, before retiring and passing the torch, or rather, stinky costume.

The former Phanatic now sells sports teams of all levels on the value of having a mascot, which includes designing and building costumes for his clients. He refers to himself as a professional idiot. An idiot who makes a substantial amount of money having fun.

The lesson?

If you are going to be an idiot, be good at it.

Have fun.
Get paid for it.

so what do you really want?

2010-09-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

I have the opportunity to develop a new business. The business is about helping people get what they really want. The name of the business is:

So what do you really want?

The first thing I felt we should do is start asking people this question. Here are some of the answers:

Happiness
Abundance
New car
To finish my bucket list
Money
New job
My kids to be successful and happy
A real connection with someone
To fix people
My own business

This is a BIG project with unlimited options of how to serve people. The key will be to figure out the best way to inspire and help people.

We might start with a website that shows videos of people answering this question and an offering of some services to help people actually GET what they want. Like I said, this is a BIG project with tremendous responsibility. You can't half ass it when you are dealing with people's dreams and desires.

Stay tuned.

In the meantime...

So what do you really want?

spindletop to bottom.

2010-09-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

The most famous oil well in history was Spindletop. If you grow up in Texas, you know what Spindletop is and represents.

The discovery of oil in a field outside of Beaumont, Texas changed the world forever. Three brothers were hired to find oil by investors. The Hamill brothers were known to be the best and most innovative at drilling in 1900.

The story of Spindletop is inspiring because nobody had achieved the kind of success that was achieved that day on January 10th, 1901 and nobody expected it. The work was very difficult and the conditions extremely challenging.

Below is a rare interview with one of the Hamill brothers, Curt.

Tex: Mr. Hamill, what kind of living conditions did you endure while working at Spindletop?

Curt: Call me Curt, please. What was that question again...Oh yeah, living conditions? Well, we lived in a run-down, one-room shack, that was near the oil field. We shared the shack with roaches and spiders. We slept on beds that were dusty and moldy. When we sat down to eat, frogs...the biggest we had ever seen...jumped down from the shack's rafters and landed on the table. At night we had to put nets up over the beds to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes. Even though the living conditions were poor, my brother and I, along with Peck Byrd, were excited about drilling a well at Spindletop.

Tex: What new drilling equipment did you bring to Beaumont?

Curt: We brought a rotary drill.

Tex: What was the first job you accomplished at Spindletop?

Curt: We ran water lines from a nearby bayou up to the drilling site. Then we built a tall wooden derrick to support our long sections of pipe as they were being drilled into the ground. We also added pulleys to our derrick so that we could raise the pipe from the hole when the bit needed to be changed or sharpened.

Tex: How did the rotary drill work?

Curt: We used a steam engine that was powered by a boiler to turn the drilling pipe and bit. We lowered the pipe and let the bit chew its way through sand, mud, and rock. We ran into a problem. The sand at Spindletop clogged the pipe and filled up the hole as fast as it was drilled. We pumped water from the bayou down the well to cool the bit and wash the sand out of the pipe. The sand absorbed the water and stayed in the hole. This caused the job to go slow. At the end of twenty days, we had only reached a depth of 400 feet.

Tex: Did the drilling team want to give up?

Curt: No sir, we didn't give up. We kept on working until we reached 640 feet. Then we hit the worst sand ever. We ran out of wood for the boiler and our bits needed to be sharpened. My brother, Al, went in to town for wood. I stayed at the drilling site to do some powerful thinking.

Tex: Did you come up with an idea to solve the sand problem?

Curt: We sure did! I came up with the theory that pumping mud not water into the pipe might force the sand to the surface. Sand absorbed the water like a sponge but the mud would not be absorbed into the sand.

Tex: Where did you get the mud?

Curt: Well, we brought in a small herd of cattle and turned them loose in a nearby water pit. The cattle stomped around and made lots of mud for us.

Tex: Did your theory work?

Curt: It dang sure did! The thick mud was pumped into the hole and it carried the sand out. We worked hard all day and by evening, we had drilled through the bad layer of sand and into black dirt and shale. Everyone shouted with joy. From then on, we operated the rig 24 hours a day.

Tex: Were you there when the gusher blew in?

Curt: You better believe I was! I was on the derrick when the gusher came in. I was blinded by the puff of mud and oil. When I wiped the oil out of my eyes, I saw the fountain of petroleum shooting at least 100 feet into the air.

Tex: Thank you Curt for such an exciting and informative interview.

Prospecting for oil is the ultimate entrepreneurial experience. You map out your plan (determine where and when), get your tools (pipe, etc...), build your support structure (oil derrick) and execute (drill), in hopes of striking it rich. Every so often, you hit rock or sand and then there are days like January 10, 1901.

Keep drilling.
You could have a gusher on your hands!

airline seat roulette. let it ride.

2010-09-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

Who will I sit next to?

The question we all ask ourselves as we approach our seat on an airplane.

Airline seat roulette.

"Please let it be someone who will not talk. Please, no young parents with children. Please, nobody who has to go to the bathroom." The hopeful praying begins.

Recently, I switched seats on a plane prior to my flight and ended up next to someone who I shared much industry experience and several business connections with. Had I not made a humorous comment about a celebrity on a page of a magazine my neighbor was reading, the connection may have never occurred. The connection was positive. The plane ride was shorter.

The lesson here:

Something as simple as airline seat roulette can be fun, adventurous and lead to great connections, if you approach it with an open mind, good attitude and make a little effort.

organized trash. finally.

2010-09-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

I have been recycling for years.

How about you?

I am proud to say I usually have more recycled trash than any of my neighbors. At home, it's easy to organize the trash and recycling. On the go, it's been a whole other story. I can't tell you how many times I have struggled to figure out where to put the lid of a bottle versus the bottle, the plastic cup versus the cardboard sleeve the newspaper versus the magazine.

Exhausting and confusing.

Until...

This week, while traveling, I discovered these wonderful new organized trash containers in airports. Mind you, I have not traveled for a few years, so they may be old news to some. For me, a welcomed sight.

No more where to put what headaches!!!

The lesson here?

New ideas are always needed. Even in regards to trash.
Keep thinking of better ways to do stuff better. It makes the world a much more effective (and organized place).

the importance of coffee?

2010-09-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

How important is coffee in your life?

Could you live without it?

Why?

There are more than 1000 coffee shops in the Seattle area. 300 plus owned by Starbucks alone. Coffee is VERY important in Seattle.

Why?

Weather?

How a single product (commodity) like coffee can become so important in people's lives fascinates me. It has become important in my life. Yesterday alone, in Seattle, I had 10 cups of coffee (one of them is pictured above). Here's what I looked like after cup 10.

Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant and obviously wakes people up, gives them the energy to get through daily work tasks they might not have any interest in accomplishing.

But, it's more important than that.

Coffee has become our friend. Something we can count on everyday to help us. Help us wake up. Help us achieve. If we could shift the way we feel about coffee to other things, people in our lives, what a wonderful way to live.

Awake and energized!!!

Coffee is important.

the right amount of change.

2010-09-08T23:29:00.000-07:00

What is it about change?

When I am in a new place, a place of change, I am completely inspired and energized. This week I am in a city I have never been to (Seattle) and I am like a kid in a candy store.

Everything is new. Everything is exciting.

I AM ALIVE!!!

Why?

Let's look at change defined:

"to make the form, nature, content, future course, etc., of (something) different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone"

I am different from what I was, due to the change that has occurred. Different causes inspiration. Who knew?

Change is good.
Different is good.
Be inspired.

labor day. happy?

2010-09-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Celebrating labor during a recession.

I love the irony!!!

While many are without work this labor day, we should all be thankful for the opportunity to work, past, present and future. I like to work. I've always liked to work. When I'm not working, I often feel guilty and try to find some sort of project around the house to accomplish. I think this is a DNA thing, as my Mom continues to out labor everyone else in the family, and she's retired!!!

Make your work a labor of love.

the value behind really big decisions.

2010-09-05T06:55:00.000-07:00

It's a matter of life and death, what are you going to decide?

Normally, we think most decisions in our life are this dramatic, then something happens that actually is and puts everything into perspective.

Years ago my Dad died, having a fatal heart attack, while I was sitting next to him. This traumatic event leveled out my perspective on life. I was much too concerned with the small stuff. Years later, my daughter Maxine was born under stressful, somewhat life threatening circumstances and again, a complete perspective adjustment was experienced. This week, my house caught fire within a few feet of my twin boys bedroom and I had to make quick, life saving decisions. My perspective on life? Forever changed.

What is the lesson here? Don't sweat the small stuff? Make good decisions quickly? Life is hard?

It's about value.

The value you place on your life, the people in your life and the experiences of your life. Too often, we forget to value the simplest moments of life, until that giant boulder rolls down the hill and hits you in the head.

It rolled.
It hit me.
My head hurts, but my heart is wide open.

Value everything that happens to you today and do it again tomorrow.

pop a wheelie. take off.

2010-09-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

I was at a traffic light and the motorcycle next to me "popped a wheelie" as the light turned green and sped off.

I had not seen a wheelie in quite some time, but it instantly reminded me of my childhood, when wheelies were a way of life on my bike. Popping a wheelie is powerful and artful. A wheelie says - "I am in control of my bike." I like the symbolism, as many people today are struggling to get control of their bikes (life).

Getting control of your bike and learning how to pop a wheelie takes time and effort.

Get control.
Pop a wheelie.
Take off.

why do partnerships sink?

2010-08-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

We always hear how difficult partnerships are.

Why?

It seems that from the beginning of time, man has struggled to get along with man. When I say man, I mean woman as well. I will not bore you with example after example, because you no doubt have your own share of failed partnerships.

But why?

What is it that makes partnerships so difficult?

I think it might be a numbers issue, two acting as one. Two divided into one. Two entities split into one. There is division at the onset. Could it be this simple? A numbers issue? A logistics issue?

2 / 1 = 1

What if we change the equation?

1 + 1 = 2

Addition versus division.
Sounds better.
Go team!

no more ambiguity for me.

2010-08-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

I get it.

There are tens of millions of people out of work attending meetup groups on every street corner. All of these displaced individuals are trying to find a new direction, a new identity, a new job.

Is it too much to ask that we just be a little more specific in the process?

I have attended a handful of these meetings and I still don't know who is doing what and why? Somewhere along the way, the art of being specific has disappeared. I could blame it on our electronically connected communities and lifestyle, but that would not be a positive tweet.

Know who you are.
Know what you do.
Be specific.

abc.

2010-08-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

I recently watched a salesperson pass on a sale and it nearly knocked me out of my chair.

Why?

Sales are tough to come by these days.

What happened???

The salesperson did not ask for the sale, even after the potential client asked to be sold.

Whaaaaaaaaaat???

How can this happen?

Here are a few possibilities:

1.
The salesperson does not really like to sell.

2.
The salesperson does not believe in the product.

3.
The salesperson does not need the money?

If you are going to sell.

You need to be able to sell.

Selling involves asking for business.

If you don't ask, you do not receive.

ABC.

Always be closing.

If business comes your way and you still refuse, it's time to look for another career.

when do you know?

2010-08-27T06:57:00.000-07:00

When do you know what you want to do?

My wife has a cassette of her interviewing Betty Crocker, as Barbara Walters, when she was 8 years old. She asked Betty some great questions and oh by the way, she was Betty Crocker as well and gave some great answers. Even at 8 years of age, my wife realized the importance of advertising revenue to allow for such great interviews and had Ford commercials dispersed throughout the interview. Yes, she was the commercial announcer as well (much deeper voice of course).

Funny, funny stuff!

Yesterday I listened to my wife interview someone on her Internet Radio Show and could not help to think back of that Betty Crocker interview.

How wonderful to know what you want to do when you are 8 years old. Is it that easy for everyone - No! Why? Some of us are blessed with the ability to like so many things and do so many things, relatively well. This can be a good thing. This can be a bad thing. Our world today is compounding the "distraction factor" with hand held devices that can connect us with anyone, anything, anywhere, anytime.

It's getting harder to know what you want to do.

Think back of when you were a kid, maybe there is a clue to what you liked to do. Think about the past 30 days and when you were at your best. Did you get a group of people together and have an inspiring meeting. Maybe you are a born facilitator of ideas. Maybe you coached your kids soccer team to a championship and are a natural coach or teacher. If you are not loving what you are doing, take some time to think back.

You just might find an old cassette.

word.

2010-08-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

Nothing is more important that a person's word.

Yet, everywhere we look, we see examples of people not keeping their word. The obvious solution to this epidemic is keeping mouths shut.

Keep your word.
It is a sign of integrity.
It will build relationships.
It can define you, so keep it!

means to an end.

2010-08-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

With every ending comes a beginning.

No better time to realize this than the end of summer and the beginning of school. One of the most dramatic adjustments kids and adults, who use to be kids, make every year, for 17 years on the average.

Let's put it into adult terms:

Imagine working for 9 months straight, then getting 3 months off.

Imagine drinking wine for 9 months straight, then no wine for 3 months.

Imagine watching your favorite tv shows for 9 months straight, then no tv for 3 months.

That's quite an adjustment.

What can we learn from such ending and beginning extremes?
Carpe' Diem.
Seize the moment.

and be prepared for changes............

focused on focusing.

2010-08-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

Watched one of my favorite videos (Riding Giants) this morning and the topic of focus came up.

Surfers find their focus when surfing.

Nothing else matters when they are catching a wave. They are completely absorbed in the moment of surfing. It is what I refer to as a HANG ZEN moment. This is a wonderful reminder for all of us that the ability to focus is closely associated with our passions.

For me...

Gardening.
Playing ice hockey.
Creating ideas that make people think.
Making my kids laugh in the car.

Time to focus on focus.

new school rules.

2010-08-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

Going to a new school can be cause for big, big trauma.

Today was orientation for my twin boys (5) at their new school. We were all walking on egg shells waiting for something to go wrong and then it happened:

Nothing.

Absolutely nothing went wrong. It all went beautifully perfect.

If I could bottle this feeling, I would give all my blog readers a bottle for free, then make my millions selling the most rewarding feeling one can experience while alive, in a bottle.

Everything going right.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

two turning five.

2010-08-17T13:23:00.000-07:00

My twin boys are turning five.

Ahhhhh, 5 years old.

Remember it?

I do. Like it was yesterday. Big decisions involved snacks - ding dongs versus twinkies. Big decisions involved playing - half chewed astronaut versus Indian. I'll spare you the details on how these two interacted on a football field.

Life was simple as a kid.

I want that simplicity back. How do we get it?

One upside from the downside of this economy is that many people have been forced to get by with much less, begging the question, "did we really need all that stuff to begin with?"

Probably not.

Life gets complicated because we keep adding to it. Maybe it's time we stop adding and just be with what is.

Ahhhhh, I'm already feeling more relaxed.

3 legged dog & 15 year old cat.

2010-08-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

Animal sat for a 3 legged dog and a 15 year old cat this week.

What did I learn?

Never give up.

...and dogs and cats, like people, love attention ;-)

do you like people?

2010-08-12T10:37:00.000-07:00

I have always said that I like people. Yes, it's a bold, basic statement.

Liking people helps you in life and in business. People are everywhere. If you are out in public right now reading this, you are surrounded by them. If you don't like people, this limits your opportunities and can be great cause for irritation. I know people who don't like people. Sounds quite paradoxical doesn't it?

Do you like people?

What kind of people do you like?

What kind of people interest you most?

What are your friends like? Do they share common interests? Do they look like you? Do they drive a certain type of car? Do they live close to you? Do they belong to a club you belong to? Do you have variety in the people you like?

I like all types of people, but I do tend to gravitate toward "unusual" people, those who march to a beat of a different drummer (love that quote) and creative people, who also favor being different. With that said, I do have quite a variety of friends, acquaintances, business associates, etc... and I do so enjoy interacting with all types.

People fascinate me.

Let's take a quick snapshot of some of the people I know, I like, I have interacted with recently:

Last weekend I played ice hockey with people ranging from their 30's to their 60's in age. I like hockey people. A little rough around the edges at times, but good people. I had several business meetings with hard working people this week. I like hard working people. They inspire me. I just talked with a couple of creative people. Creative people stimulate me to be more creative. Had dinner with some purpose driven people. I admire people with purpose. Every day consists of me interacting with kids. This morning I had to deal with some lovable, but unruly kids. I love kid people. They are so uninhibited and keep me on my toes.

Take a look at the people in your life, all around you.

Who do you like?

Why?

Enjoy them.

People can be quite fascinating.

inhibited vs. uninhibited.

2010-08-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

I was reminded today by my oldest, but youngest in spirit sister, why we love children.

Children are uninhibited.

What does this mean?

They don't know any better.

Actually, it means they are FREE FROM THE USUAL, TRADITIONAL, SOCIAL, MORAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS.

Now we all are reminded why we don't really want to grow up. Hug a kid today and let them know how great they are.

who are you? really.

2010-08-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

"What do you do?"

In other words, who are you? Love the question. Hate the question. Either way, you will eventually be forced to deal with this identity qualifying question.

Had dinner with friends the other night and brought up this topic of identity and it was fascinating to really delve into who each of us really is. We are most often identified with the work we are doing and labeled with fancy inflated job titles.

Check out these gems:

1. Wet Leisure Assistant – Lifeguard

2. Modality Manager – Nurse

3. Waste Management and Disposal Technician – Trash Man

4. Information Adviser – Librarian

5. Direct Debit and Membership and Professional Development Stock and Credit Administrator – Customer Services Administrator.

6. Family protection consultant – Insurance telesales worker

7. Investment Development and Research Analyst – Technical Help Desk Worker

8. Worldwide Marine Asset Financial Analyst – Accountant

9. Debt Management Officer / Field Force Agent – Tax Collector

10. Coordinator of Interpretive Teaching – Museum Tour Guide

But, who are we really? What are we really?

If you ran a business for 20 years as a sales manager, are you a salesman, even though you can paint like Picasso?

If you help small businesses grow by doing whatever it takes, are you a small business specialist, even though you design everything from new products, to marketing brochures, to trade show booths?

If you spent most of your life as a writer, but prefer helping people by offering healing services, are you still a writer?

There are your basic identity titles like doctor, lawyer, nurse, truck driver, artist, actor, politician (no more please), athlete, etc... that people can easily identify with and easily identify each of us.

My question to you is - who are you?

I have decided that I am truly a designer, not a salesperson, not a small business specialist, not a consultant.

Whether it's helping a small businesses grow by creating/designing new products, developing new advertising campaigns or effective selling strategies, I am designing.

Whether I am helping a home owner increase the value of their house by improving the landscape, I am designing.

Whether I am building a business based on fun messages like - GET IT OM, NOT FROM HERE, LESS IS MORE, etc... I am designing products.

It's time to come clean.

I am a designer.

Who are you?

be thankful during storms.

2010-08-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

We have to deal with our storms in life, even though we don't know how long the storm is going to be.

The next time a storm blows in, be thankful for what you have, not what you don't have.

Watch this video.

Be forever reminded of this.

I write this blog to inspire and am constantly amazed at how often I am inspired by incredible people like Nick Fujicic. A true inspiration!

Take the time today to remind someone how great they are.

the mechanic and repo man.

2010-08-06T13:01:00.000-07:00

We meet all sorts of people, who come from all sorts of places and do all sorts of things.

Every once in awhile we meet a type of person, we thought we would never meet. Often this is a famous person and we fall short on words and big on awe.

Recently, I met two people in the auto business. One is a mechanic and one is a repo man. Yes, I said repo man. The auto business has always suffered from a bad reputation. Why? I have been trying to figure out the why for years and have spoken to many people about this subject. As a result, anyone associated with the auto business tends to be judged in the same bad reputation manner.

There is even popular slang that addresses this subject - "He reminds me of a car salesman." - ouch!

The two people I met, the mechanic and the repo man, were nothing like the stereotypical auto people we hear about. As a matter of fact, they were the complete opposite and this gave me incredible hope about people in general.

Yes, it was the classic - "don't judge a book by it's cover" situation and I was pleasantly wrong with my prejudgments.

I'll be reading more books and less covers.

curious people count.

2010-08-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

"Curious people count. They are the one's who talk to the people in a stupor."

- Seth Godin / Marketing Guru

I love this.

Stay curious. Ask questions. Inspire those in a stupor.

We need you!

tighter than a banjo string.

2010-08-04T14:11:00.000-07:00

One thing I do love about Texas are the quotes. There is certain swagger and entertainment value to quotes about Texas, quotes from Texans and Texas slang in general.

I was recently described by my lovely wife in the following manner:

"You were wound tighter than a banjo string when I first met you."

I laughed when she said it.

A) Because she was right.

B) Because of the way it rolled off her tongue.

My wife is a 5th generation Texan. She's the Real McCoy. Aside from being drop dead gorgeous, she is intelligent, can sing like an angel and always knows how to define a moment with a Texas saying.

God Bless Texas.

These are some of the reasons why.

hope at the end of a rope.

2010-08-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

What happens when your HOPE feels like it is slipping towards the end of the rope?

Switch hands?
Get a better grip?
Humble yourself for help?

Anything, except let go.

But wait.

There are times when we need to let go. Some prefer the strategy to let go, let God. What is right for you? When do we let go and when do we hold on?

To be continued...

a nation of manifestation.

2010-07-31T18:56:00.000-07:00

Individually and as a nation, we must re-learn the art of manifestation.

We must dig deep to find what each of us is capable of to survive in challenging times. This is a tremendous opportunity for self exploration and discovering unknown potential.

Enjoy the process.
Take it seriously.
Manifest the best!

utopia.

2010-07-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

Where is your UTOPIA?

That place of ideal perfection?
That feeling of complete happiness?

I am hoping that the 50,000 current students, and millions of alumni believe it was and still is at The University of Texas.

Click on link below. Spread the word.

http://www.bangstickers.com/product/UTOPIA-RR/

the friend test.

2010-07-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

The best test for friendship is getting a flat tire at night and needing help.

Who do you call?

A true friend.

Last night, I got a flat tire downtown and now have a NEW, true friend.

His name?

Rob.
I call him - The Car Angel

I am now inspired to be a car angel for others.

word.

2010-07-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

What is the most popular NEW word you keep hearing?

The recession, zen movement and social media popularity have created an onslaught of new terminology. I have always been fascinated how new words take hold within certain demographics and move throughout the world.

Here are some new words I have been hearing:

Staycation - a less expensive vacation at home.
Tweetup - gathering of people using social media Twitter.
Funemployed - enjoying your unemployment.
Jeggings - leggings that look like jeans.
Techy - technological worker.
Unfriended - removing someone as a friend on facebook.
Get it om - enjoying the act of zen, meditation and or yoga.

Words are fun.
Words are powerful.
Words can touch millions of people.

Word.

cease these c's!

2010-07-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

Another glorious Sunday drive and another lesson learned, while listening to my Dale Carnegie cd in my car.

If you want to win friends and influence people. You must eliminate these 3 C's:

Criticize
Condemn
Complain

Cease these three c's and you will be on your way to improved relationships.

Good luck, friend.

8toMotivate Interview - Steve Golab

2010-07-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Sponsored by:

TREK15

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So well designed. So simple. It will surprise you.

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8toMotivate is a fun, simple interview format designed to get a quick peek into the mindset of some of today’s most successful and innovative people. Success means different things to different people, so we will be talking with a wide variety of individuals, taking on a wide variety of challenges and achieving success.

Innovation is critical to the future of everything, so we will always lean towards those being most innovative with their work. Each guest is asked 13 questions and we choose our favorite 8 answers. Some questions are more business focused and some are just plain fun. Either way, it’s a nice peek into the mindset of successful people who love what they are doing and doing it well.

Each guest will have a link to a detailed bio or website, so others may learn more about them. The interview will be posted on Rick’s blog and promoted to his growing database of business professionals. The interview can also be promoted via the guest’s database, if they so choose. The purpose of these interviews is simply: to inspire and motivate people by exposing them to another person’s successful mindset.

I have always been inspired by great success stories and I am confident there is at least one small nugget of inspiration in each interview.

Guest 10:
Steve Golab
CEO / President
FG SQUARED Interactive Marketing

Why Rick Rondeau chose Steve Golab?

Steve Golab bucks the trend, proving nice guys can finish first. Steve is a giver personality, constantly giving of his time and ideas outside of the normal work environment. I've experienced this first hand. Steve combines an infectious can do attitude with a wide open mindset in a friendly style.

For 15 years, Steve, his partners and dedicated staff have been interactively creating some of Austin's most inventive and progressive marketing solutions. Staying power in the creative agency business is not easy, although FG SQUARED makes it look so.

www.fg2.com

1.
Your company has been in business for 15 years. Do you remember the BEST business related moment and the not so best moment and what single word of advice do you give other businesses to last 15 years in a highly competitive industry?

The best moment was probably when FG SQUARED landed its first piece of international business with Canon in 1997. The contract was huge for our credibility, our confidence, and it afforded us a few round-trip tickets to Tokyo.

If you want to learn more about our entire history, check out this interactive timeline that we created as part of our 15 year anniversary campaign:

http://www.fg2.com/15yrs

The not so best moment was during the downturn of 2001-2003. At some point, we had to adopt The Minimum Wage Plan to survive. Under this plan, all of our 15 remaining employees were asked to work for $1,100 each month. At the end of each month, we would assess our profits for month, and then hand out bonuses to get more money into everyone’s pockets for their dedicated service. That plan lasted for over 6 months until we could afford to raise everyone’s salaries to the same level set prior to the Minimum Wage Plan going into effect.

My single piece of entrepreneurial advice is to keep your organization agile, so you can adapt quickly as the business climate changes and be able to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

2.
What do you want people to think, when they hear the name – Steve Golab?

Family man.
Business community leader.
Trusted advisor who deeply understands his business, the needs of his clients and the broader marketplace in which FG SQUARED operates.

3.
What do you consider to be your best client work to date and why?

I am most impressed with the advancements we are making in social business design and execution. One of our more progressive clients has hired us to create an enterprise-wide online community where employees connect and information and knowledge flows freely.

It has fundamentally affected their approach to getting work done, and that is no small task considering the company operates around the world with over 2,000 employees. Much of the credit goes to a progressive executive leadership who is willing to examine and adopt new interactive tools and technologies that help it grow, profitably.

4.
What is the best kept secret about Steve Golab?

I love punk music and mosh pits.

5.
Name 3 books that have had the most impact on your life.

Stewardship by Peter Block
Service, Prosperity, and Sanity by Earl Maxwell
The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge by Carlos Casteneda

6.
You have the following amounts of money to spend on a meal in Austin. Where and what do you eat?

$5 – Italian Sausage at The Best Wurst
$25 – Barbeque at the Salt Lick
$100 – It’s all good at Uchi

7.
All we hear about today is SOCIAL MEDIA. If a small business has limited funds, what is the best “bare minimum” social media strategy they should implement?

Participate on the Social Web by reading other people’s blog, leaving comments, and engaging others in conversation. Develop an understanding of who is using the Social Web and how they are using it.

A great next step would be to purchase Dave Evans book “Social Media Marketing: An Hour a Day.” Read the book, rinse and repeat.

8.
What would you do if you knew you would not fail?

Place everything on Red 23 and let it ride, of course. Seriously, I've always dreamed of opening a second office in The Netherlands – in either The Hague or Amsterdam.

Special thanks to Steve Golab for taking his valuable time to inspire us with his thoughts. I enjoyed so much of what Steve had to say and will forever hold the vision of Steve moshing in a pit full of punk music fans. Fun stuff!

Need help branding, marketing, growing YOUR business?

I can help.

www.rickrondeau.com

time flies with highs.

2010-07-22T11:28:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed how fast time moves when you are happy, enjoying a busy schedule of fulfillment.

My last blog was Sunday and I was suppose to finish part two of Sex and Success on Monday. Today is Thursday and I am no closer to finishing part two than I was 4 days ago.

Why?

I've had a great week doing great work that I greatly appreciate. Time moves fastest when we are enjoying our endeavors.

We all remember too well those moments that dragged on f-o-r-e-v-e-r. Staring at the clock that seemed to be stuck, staring at the blank piece of paper (olden days ;-) with not a drop of inspiration, asking why, why why.

If time is flying for you, then you are piloting well!!!

Buckle up.
Enjoy the flight.

SEX and success.

2010-07-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

I took a beautiful drive early this am to San Antonio to play some ice hockey with friends. On the way I listened to one of my favorite books:

"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill

The book was written in the 1930's and remains one of the most influential books of all time on the topic of success. There are so many insightful aspects of this book, but the one that JUMPED out at me on my drive this morning was the relationship between SEX and success.

Did he just say sex?

Yes.

This is why today's blog is simply a teaser and a warning for those of you embarrassed or frightened by sex.

Sex is the #1 human emotion and more powerful than all of the remaining 9 in the top 10 list, together!!!

Wow!

Until tomorrow...

have you noticed?

2010-07-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

All of us have our individual experiences every day during life, but some experiences or observations, are shared, but rarely discussed.

Here are a few things I am noticing out there and am wondering what YOU see!!!

Have fun with it.

1.
The explosion of self serve frozen yogurt shops opening up during a down economy.

2.
Gluten Free eating is all the rage, yet finding "good tasting" gluten free food is still a challenge and when you do, it's always sold out (Pamela's Lemon Shortbread Cookies, Pizza Crusts...).

3.
Coffee creamer prices are down while Tide detergent prices are up.

5.
The sad disappearance of some of our favorite magazines like Cottage Living and Metropolitan Home.

6.
Coffee is the new water.

7.
Food is now available in trailers and trucks on almost every street corner. Do we really need to eat standing up in the heat?

8.
Potted plants can enjoy two straight weeks of rain, then start to die after one day of Texas heat.

9.
Everyone is looking down (texting) while the most amazing works of art are UP in the sky everyday.

10.
The quantity of tv shows and movies seem to be getting larger, while the quantity of what I enjoy watching gets smaller.

11.
You can tell when you really like someone by how much you look forward to doing nothing with them.

What have you noticed?

good at what they do.

2010-07-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

I asked a successful friend of mine from New York why he was good at what he does. Below is his answer, which took him very little time to respond with:

1. I am a part owner of the company and have a lot of skin in the game (big picture wise).

2. I care a LOT about my customers.

3. I am empathetic.

4. I am creative.

5. I am VERY knowledgeable about my industry, product and competition.

Let's review.

1. Committed.
2. Compassionate.
3. Determined.
4. Creative.
5. Knowledgable.

The perfect recipe for success.

Often we know what we need to do, we just need to do it.
So.
Just do it.

survival of the flexible?

2010-07-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”

- Charles Darwin / English Naturalist

Strength and intelligence are proven attributes, but it's our ability to adapt to change that will determine our future.

The massive shift of all things as we knew them that is going on all over the world is proof that we cannot avoid change, so it is critical we adapt. Quickly.

8toMotivate Interview: Bryan Pudder

2010-07-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

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Bryan Pudder - LinkedIn

Bryan Pudder - Facebook

1.
You work at GSD&M Idea City, one of Austin’s most recognized and successful brands. In your opinion, what has GSD&M Idea City done exceptionally well in order to establish itself as a leader and what is the best advice you can offer someone wanting to work at such a high profile, creative institution?

We have this drive to discover the spark of a brand. We call it the brand’s purpose. Once we identify it, we call on all our resources to effectively communicate it. And we communicate it in all aspects. That’s my marketing side. Creatively, it comes down to ideas that entertain while connecting people to the brand’s purpose. We’re an agency that has thrived on creating relatable work. That’s always been the kind of work that, well, works.

As far as advice. How about, be tenacious, be informed and be humble. Above all though, you have to LOVE ideas. New media or old media, ideas matter. Fundamental stuff, but true. The other trait that works is the willingness to sacrifice. High profile, long lasting creative places are demanding. They’re also rewarding. Be up for it.

2.
What has been your most rewarding moment and your most frustrating moment in the advertising business to date?

Over the years there has been so many of both that it’s hard to pin down a particular moment for each. For me they fall into categories. The most rewarding moments have been when I hear someone has enjoyed my work. Kind of basic I know, but it never stops being good.

The current campaign my partner and I have done for Southwest Airlines is a stand out for that. People all over the country, relatives I haven’t seen in years, folks I just run into know and really like “Grab your bag. It’s on.” The fact that two guys can sit at a little table and dream up something that touches people all over the country, help increase an airlines market share, and make people excited about working for that company is amazing. It’s rewarding and very humbling. It never gets old.

What does get old is when you work hard and discover a great idea that unceremoniously gets killed. Most of the time the reasons are surprisingly lame. Those are the most frustrating moments. You have to get over that stuff fast.

3.
What are you 3 favorite TV shows and 3 favorite internet sites?

Glee
Modern Family
Damages

Coolhunting.com
Cartype.com
Imdb.com

4.
You have come up with some outstanding creative campaigns for several high profile clients, do you have a magic formula or 1,2,3, step process that helps you reach creative nirvana for each client?

First, any outstanding creative campaign that sees the light of day is a huge group effort. There are a lot of smart people that help our ideas come to life.

Second, any great work that I’ve done has been side by side with a writer partner. I don’t think there will ever be a better way to create great work. An art director and a writer brainstorming in a coffee shop, a conference room or a bowling alley. Two brains. That’s when the magic happens.

To answer your question as to my personal process. At some point, yes you need to think great on your own. The details of my formula have changed through the years, but the fundamentals haven’t. I love seeing great work, but I don’t spend much time studying the work of others. I like concentrating on the natural resources. Art, writing, movies, pop culture, that’s the best stimulation for my thought process. It’s like I’m working all the time. Life experience is the muse you call on when it’s time to create on command. The other thing is to sit quietly. One campaign came to me when I was sitting with a cigar staring at a tree. No magic formula.

5.
What advice do you have for smaller ad agencies in Austin that are trying to grow their client lists? I often hear how challenging it is for smaller agencies to develop their business versus other business models and would be interested in hearing your thoughts on this.

I humbly bow to anyone who runs their own ad agency. It takes a level of bravery and will that few have. I’ve worked at agencies from 9 people to 950 and I love the small ones.

Whether it is the shop whose vision is to stay small, proud and happy or the ones that grit their teeth and take on the big boys; I salute them.
Since there is more B-to-B then B-to-C work out there that seems to be where most small agencies get their bread and butter. When I ran the creative department at a mid-size agency we did a lot of B to B. I operated under the assumption that the person reading an ad in a trade journal was an enthusiast about that product even if it is a fiber connector. Just like a runner is an enthusiast about his Nike shoes. And it is probably the same person – they consume both consumer and trade ads. So we did work that played to that pride of being “into” your job.

The ads were smart and had a consumer tone or edge that you see more often in consumer media than trade ads. This demonstrated that we could also do consumer work if given the opportunity and those opportunities led to expansion. It took four years, but we eventually won business not just on our marketing prowess but also on our creative ability. We found a way to show creative meant value.

I would just advise smaller agencies to work hard to define their additional value. High level value. Anyone can behave well at meetings and “Get back to you by EOD.”

I’ve always been amazed at how human advertising is. The industry as a whole is as messy as any one human being. Dysfunctional, petty, brilliant at times, incredibly compassionate, and stupid. All of it. That could be why it’s tougher than other business models. Maybe start there and find a way to be more of something to the humans on the client side.

6.
What is the best kept secret about Bryan Pudder?

I’m Banksy.

7.
Name your 5 favorite national ad campaigns (non-GSD&M Idea City).

Snickers
Skittles
Levis
Geico
Old Spice

8.
List your favorite misconception quotes about the advertising business and give me your elevator pitch about the value of creative advertising and why I need it.

Here’s my pitch:

You don’t need creative advertising. Just run your logo. You’d still get revenue. You’ll also be able to sit and watch as your brand disintegrates. But you don’t need it.

If your business depends on people giving you money, however, then you need to tell them why they should give it to you over your competitors.

Enter Creative. It’s simple. If you want people get excited and react to your message, do good creative. Now if you want them to get excited and react, plus run and tell others about your message, do great creative. But there’s no rule that says you have to be successful. So you don’t need creative.

My favorite advertising quote is “Half my advertising money is wasted. I just don’t know which half.” I will say, however, I don’t thing that’s a misconception.

Special thanks to Bryan Pudder for taking his valuable time to inspire us with his thoughts. I enjoyed so much of what Bryan had to say, but as a HUGE Banksy (the street artist) fan, my favorite answer from Bryan was easily -

What is the best kept secret about Bryan Pudder? - "I'm Banksy."

Funny stuff Bryan!

Need help branding, growing YOUR business?

I can help.

www.rickrondeau.com

challenging the status quo.

2010-07-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

"Challenging the status quo is uncomfortable."

- Seth Godin / Entrepreneur, Author, Speaker

Great ideas, important work, unique perspectives are likely to upset the norm and create discomfort. Every great leader, thinker, achiever has faced opposition along the way to reaching levels of greatness.

The lesson:

Be prepared for the opposition, they will come. Do not let them stray you from your goals, your purpose, no matter how difficult. If there is discomfort, you are more than likely on the right path.

Enjoy the journey.
Always.

lead by example.

2010-07-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

We have heard this business mantra/life mantra for years:

Lead by example.

However, how often do we follow through? How often do we get to see the fruit of our leading by example labor?

Well, I just did.

One of my twin boys (Kaden) sent my other twin boy (Konnor) to time out, while they were playing on the computer. It appears that Konnor hit Kaden, while frustrated with Kaden's computer game selections, and was ordered to time out by his brother. Konnor immediately went to time out, as I watched with pride, but mostly humor. One is not allowed to return until they apologize, which Konnor quickly did and Kaden replied with - thank you Konnor.

Kaden obviously had followed my lead of sending people to time out for such behavior. A simple, funny moment that spoke volumes, reminding me that despite what we may believe, we ARE leading by example.

Lead by example.
Always.

job you love.

2010-07-10T16:29:00.000-07:00

"Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life."

- Confucius / Chinese Philosopher

Jobs have become a precious commodity and while many are without, it is a perfect time to shift your career into the direction of passion and enjoyment.

There is a BIG lesson in what Confucius said.

Finding bliss can take some time, but is there really a better project than looking for fulfillment?

I think not.

Good luck.
I'm right behind you.

rejoice in choice.

2010-07-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

What are you going to choose today?

Happy.
Sad.
Motivated.
Depressed.
Hard task.
Easy task.
Work out.
Eat ice cream.
Sit on couch.
Work in yard.

There is tremendous beauty in having choice, but often we forget about the responsibility of choosing and just sort of fall into the pattern of doing stuff.

Stop.

Choose something different today.

I will lead by example by choosing - completion! I have 278 unfinished projects and I am going to choose to finish 3 today.

The pressure is on.
Good luck with your choices today!!!

what's right? answered.

2010-07-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

The following are answers from readers to my previous blog question:

HOW DOES ONE DETERMINE WHAT IS RIGHT?

Answers:

I always try listening to my heart.

Do unto others as you would have them do to you.

Instinct.

The true purpose of the action is to help.

Laws.

Commandments.

Feeling guilt about doing the complete opposite.

Doing the right thing is not always easy. Determining what the right thing to do is just as challenging. Combining any of the above suggestions, will certainly help.

Right on!

doing what's right.

2010-07-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

"Doing what's right isn't the problem. It's knowing what's right."

- Lyndon B. Johnson / 36th US President

How do we determine what's right? In business? At home? Is the Golden Rule (do unto others as you would have them do to you) the best test for determining what's right?

How complicated is it to determine what's right and what's wrong?

I am going to try something different and ask my readers to finish this blog by answering this BIG question:

What is right?

emotiON.

2010-07-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

What turns you on?

Why?

The emotion of life can be quite complex at times, but when you break it down to what truly turns you on, it can become quite simple. When you get to the core of turning your emotion on, you get to the source of passion and with passion, all things are possible.

For example:
I love taking photographs, so I take photographs.
I expose my photographs on facebook and my websites.
I get wonderful feedback and sometimes bring enjoyment to others.
Occasionally, I get a business opportunity that leads to more photos.
My emotion is turned on.
Full on.

everything is practice.

2010-07-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

"Everything is practice."

- Pele / Brazilian Football Star

Pele is considered to be one of the greatest football (soccer) players of all time. He sums up how one gets to a level of "greatness" in 3 simple words.

Often we get down on ourselves for not achieving a specific goal or not handling a situation the best we can, when we have not truly "practiced" enough to be more effective.

Make time to practice.

Practice.

Then practice again.

Take a break.

Practice again.

You get the idea.........

calm assertive.

2010-07-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Cesar Milan, The Dog Whisperer, talks about how important it is for dog owners to exhibit a "calm-assertive" manner with their pets.

This is the energy you project to show your dog you are the calm and assertive pack leader. Assertive does not mean angry or aggressive. Calm-assertive means always compassionate, but quietly in control."

- Cesar Milan / The Dog Whisperer

This is a wonderful way for humans to act in general. Try it and see how your life improves.

Good luck,
Rick
The Human Whisperer

cheers.

2010-06-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

Below is a cheer I sent out this am to a well deserving individual. I hope this inspires you to do the same!!!

As my boys remind me everyday, it's important to cheer someone else on. Let's broaden our awareness and appreciation for others and rise above the "me-me society" bad habits.

“You are one of the most inspiring people I have ever met. Your appreciation for life and doing everything necessary to enjoy a long life physically, emotionally and spiritually makes a positive impact on EVERYONE who meets you.

The level of generosity you consistently practice is so “off the charts” that it keeps those who benefit, in an awestruck state of mind.

Your ability to transition from a place of comfort, familiarity and total control to one of much less, has been nothing less than remarkable.

Your willingness to support and promote others who might not share the same ideals or life path decisions, shows your deep, true character.

Finally, your award winning work ethic is so pronounced that it has carried over into your much deserved leisure time and again, those lucky enough, benefit by receiving an endless bounty of quality, hand crafted treats. You are one special, unique individual.”

Cheers to all of you for taking the time to read.
Cheers to all of you who take the time to cheer.

good job buddy.

2010-06-29T11:48:00.000-07:00

My four year old twin boys love to play video games on the computer. One plays, while the other watches and cheers - "good job buddy".

That's all we are looking for sometimes. Someone to cheer us on.

Find someone to cheer for.
Today.

think big.

2010-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

When you live in Texas, big is the norm.

"Everything is bigger in Texas."

...so the saying goes.

Is bigger better? Not necessarily. A bigger burger is better when you are hungry, but a bigger rear end after eating several big burgers is not.

In my opinion, the best thing to be big at is THINKING!

When you think big, you inspire yourself and others. I just saw a promotion from a national company online. I thought it was a beautiful, well designed, fun promotion and it grabbed my attention. I then thought, my promotional pieces need to be that great. I was thinking BIG and I could actually feel an energy surge within that said to me - this was the right way to think.

Think BIG.
Always.

what you do vs. how they feel.

2010-06-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

"People aren't going to remember the things you do, they're going to remember how you made people feel."

Dan Winters / Award Winning American Photographer

As a "do'er" this message really struck home. I thrive on being productive, but I so do enjoy making people feel good and often worry about what people will think of me, remember about me.

Will it be all the hard work I did?

Will it be all the stuff I made?

What will be my legacy?

I know a lot of people who are very busy and are getting big things done everyday, but they really do not make people feel so great. On the other hand, I know a lot of people who are not as busy with big things, but are making people feel wonderful day in and day out.

Thanks to Dan, I get it, even more so.

Dan is one of the most recognized portrait photographers in the country. He has photographed just about every major celebrity and politician you can think of. Dan is an icon in the field of photography and one of the most talented people I (now) know.

Dan has quietly been living next door to me for 10 years. Yes, 10 years. We finally met, thanks to his passion for all things Americana and my passion to provide a 24/7 General Store under my carport for my neighbors to shop anytime they want.

This is why I enjoy life so much. I have always wanted to be a photographer (when I grow up) and here I am living next door to one of the greatest, of all time!!! I was like a kid in a candy store talking to Dan, sharing some of my creative ideas with a great creative mindset. Life can be a real hoot, if you let it. Dan has a photo studio in downtown Driftwood, Texas, and also lives in Los Angeles and Savannah, Georgia. This is part of the reason it has taken me 10 years to meet him.

The other lesson here. Pay attention to the people around you. They just might have something great to offer you.

Like inspiration!!!

Check out Dan's amazing work. You will be overwhelmed. I guarantee it.

http://www.danwintersphoto.com

simple donuts.

2010-06-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

We often over think in an attempt to create great ideas. Sometimes a great idea is so simple, it surprises everyone.

What do you name a donut shop in Dripping Springs, Texas?

Drippin Donuts of course.

Love it!

driving relationships.

2010-06-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

Took a drive the other day.

Listened to an inspirational cd.

Re-learned some ideas on how to be successful.

Enjoyed the scenery.

Took some memorable photos.

Celebrated a milestone.

Re-connected with family.

Had some laughs.

Had some more laughs.

Drove home.

Listened to an inspirational cd.

Re-learned more ideas on how to be successful.

Welcomed back home by loving wife and kids.

Life is (really) good.

The lesson:

Taking a drive can be good for relationships.

Gas up, head out.
Be grateful that you can.

resent-meant nothing positive.

2010-06-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

"Resentment or grudges do no harm to the person against whom you hold these feelings, but every day and every night, they are eating at you."

Norman Vincent Peale / Preacher and Author

Resentment and grudges are "dead wait". They serve no purpose. Norman Vincent Peale knows the value of positive thinking and thanks to him, so do millions of people. Are you one of them?

Lighten your load.
Move on down the road.
There are exceptional experiences ahead.

88 great.

2010-06-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

What's in a number?

Take 88 for example.

A great looking number with all those sexy curves and symmetry. In The Chinese culture, 88 symbolizes fortune and good luck. This year, #88 for The Chicago Blackhawks hockey team scored the winning goal in overtime, to win the Stanley Cup, one of sports most challenging trophies to win. There are 88 keys on a piano. There was a popular Oldsmobile known as the Olds 88 and there is a town in Kentucky, called Eighty Eight.

When you are 44 years old you feel like you've got a real handle on life and have seen and done just about everything, now double that and imagine the possibilities.

88 is a lifetime.
88 is great.

What's in a number?
Everything.

what goes around comes around.

2010-06-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

We hear it.

We sometimes say it.

What does it mean?

Why do things need to come around?

Why do we need to understand this?

The Dali Lama said - "Countless rebirths lie ahead, both good and bad. The effects of karma (actions) are inevitable, and in previous lifetimes we have accumulated negative karma which will inevitably have its fruition in this or future lives."

Confucius said - "Do unto others as you would have done to you."

Think about what you do and why you do it. Do good and sleep well. Do bad and watch out ;-) If more of us live this way, life becomes richer.

Work, play, family, co-workers, friends, strangers. Apply to every situation with everyone and watch the good come around!!!

why bother father?

2010-06-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

"Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation. It is better to be alone than be in bad company."

- George Washington / Father of Our Country

Great advice from a Father on Father's Day. Taking time to evaluate our associations is time well spent. We are products of our environments and the people within those environments. There is much reason to bother, especially when you are a Father.

Now you'll have to excuse me, while I go and let my family wait on me, as if I am the Father of Our Country.

I love Father's Day!!!

no sit on sat-urday.

2010-06-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday's are busy at our house. Yours as well I assume.

I love the energy of a Saturday. I wake up earlier and hit the ground running (right to the coffee maker) with an extra boost. Amazing how the brain and body adapt to the simple concept of a different day.

How great would it be to "train our brain" that every day was Saturday???

Saturday is the first day off from the traditional work week, yet there is so much (other) work to do. Irony at it's finest.

No time for sitting on Saturday.
Let the games begin.

can. can. can.

2010-06-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

If you ever visited New York City in the 1980's and did not see Keith Haring's artwork on subway walls, sidewalks, buildings, etc... you missed out.

If you did not get the opportunity to pop into his "NYC POP SHOP", you really missed out.

Keith Haring was an inspiring New York graffiti artist who came into his own about the same time as Andy Warhol (they were friends), the 1980's. Both artists knew what they were doing was important and that belief, fueled a volume and velocity of artwork, rarely seen.

Keith's artwork below titled "Andy Mouse", was a tribute to Andy Warhol and Mickey Mouse/Disney and their success. I use to own a t-shirt with this image and wore it until it fell apart.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Keith's passing. He died of aids at the young age of 31. There have been many things written about Keith, but the two I read recently that most inspired me were:

1.
There was never anything "negative" written, spoken, associated with Keith, never, ever!

2.
Keith never stopped creating. Even up to his death, he had an energy unlike any other artist before or after him.

Wow!

Keith Haring inspired me to create and he is a big part of why I am obsessed with creating art on t-shirts. His POP SHOPS were full of merchandise that had his artwork on it and showed everyone that you could go from street art to commercial art and not lose your integrity. The POP SHOPS walls, floors and ceiling were completely covered in Keith's artwork as well. When the store/studio finally closed, the entire inside of the store (walls, floors and ceiling) were sold as art. A tribute to the man who never stopped creating while he was alive.

Below is a quote from Keith that I really like. It speaks to his understanding of who he is and what he does. He clearly knew what his purpose in life was. It was simple and yet, it was profound and affected so many people and most importantly, he approached it with an enormous amount of energy. I can feel myself getting "physically inspired" as I type this!!!

"My contribution to the world is my ability to draw. I will draw as much as I can, for as many people as I can, for as long as I can."

- Keith Haring / Artist and Social Advocate

One final great story about Keith Haring. There was a couple shopping in Europe at a store. They were buying a white, button down shirt for their son back in the United States. They were selecting the shirt when a young man approached them and asked if he may draw some images on the shirt for their son, to make the plain white shirt a little more unique. The couple said yes and the young man proceeded to draw across the front of the shirt. When the couple gave the shirt to their son when they arrived back the in the US, he looked at them with amazement, trying to figure out where in the world did they find a white button down shirt in Europe, with Keith Haring's original artwork on it.

Yes, the young man in the store in Europe was Keith Haring.

The shirt has been saved in it's original condition, all these years, as the boy who received the shirt really didn't like shirts with collars ;-)

Great story.
Great artist.
Great inspiration.

Know who you are.
Know what your purpose is.
Have fun executing that purpose.
and......
do it with E-N-E-R-G-Y!!!

what the shell?

2010-06-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Do you have a hard shell like a tortoise?

Do you need this shell for protection?

Below is a fun video (1 minute. 39 seconds.), showing how hard shell types can help each other.

Very inspiring.

The lesson:

Having a hard shell has it's ups and downs, so make sure you let someone get through your shell and allow them to really get to KNOW you, so when you need help, they are there!

askew.

2010-06-16T10:04:00.000-07:00

If you are like me, you can be driven crazy by things that are askew, which simply means - out of line.

The term "obsessive-compulsive" has become part of the English language to describe someone who is a bit of a perfectionist and highly meticulous about order. We like things to be in line.

However, there is hope for all of us and this is a reminder that there are exceptions to every rule, no matter what you may believe.

One of my favorite possessions is my askew clock, designed by Tibor Kalman, a Hungarian born graphic designer who made a significant impact on design in America during the 70's, 80's and 90's. Tibor passed away in 1999.

Along with appreciating the wit of this clock design, I get great pleasure in watching people respond to the clock when they need to know what time it is. I am always guaranteed multiple turns of a head followed by - "what time is it?"

Love it.

listening to lists.

2010-06-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

Watched a movie last night, in which the topic of "lists" was a focal point. 5 best this. 5 worse this. Top 5 this. Top 5 that.

Got me wondering - which lists are people most listening to?

A list of 5 lists:

1.
The To-Do List is the obvious crowd favorite. It inspires productivity like no other, hopefully. It can be so short that success of completion is always a possibility. For the procrastinators, this list shifts to the Still Need To-Do List or Should Have Done By Now List.

2.
The utilitarian Grocery List is so common and written on so many objects (including skin), by so many types, that it may be the list of all lists.

3.
The favorite among hopeless romantics - The Wish List. This dreamy list usually consists of immediate "must haves" and is often tied into some common trends or necessities, depending on your age. One should never stop dreaming or listing I say.

4.
A larger, more dreamy version of the wish list is known as both - The Life List and The Bucket List. This is HUGE. This list is what needs to get done before someone dies. These items are not for the faint at heart and can involve some sort of daredevil act or distant travel. Time to get busy, this list is usually long.

5.
The Pro-Con List can be good or bad, depending on what you are trying to figure out. This list can sometimes make you feel like you are dealing with a lawyer, as it can be quite confusing and filled with double-speak.

Lists can be inspiring, if you listen to them. I am going to create some new lists, as all this list talk has inspired me.

I'd like to inspire you by asking you to list your top 5 moments in life, then look at the list to see "exactly" why each moment made it onto your top 5 list. There is a secret message within that list. Listen to it!!!

imagine that.

2010-06-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

"No amount of skillful invention can replace the essential element of imagination."

- Edward Hopper / American Painter

Our imagination is one of our greatest assets. It can help us create solutions to problems and opportunities we never considered.

Imagine that.

Are you using yours?

extra effort revisited.

2010-06-13T10:22:00.000-07:00

Went out of my way last night to give someone something they really wanted, but was not available. They "settled" for something else in the meantime and I could have "let it go" at that point. I didn't.

Why?

I simply wanted to surprise them. Wow them. Remind them that there are still people out there that will make the extra effort. Give them hope. Lead by example. Inspire them to do the same for others. Pay it forward.

How did it feel when I surprised them?

Sensational.

Enough said.

Your turn.

born to be stub-born?

2010-06-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

Unreasonably or perversely unyielding.
Difficult to handle.
Refusing to move or change one's opinion.
Bullheaded.
Resistant.
Refusing to comply.

Does this sound like you?

Are you stubborn?

Were you born stubborn?

What is the upside of being stubborn?

Stubborn behavior keeps people "immobilized" and in today's fast moving, ever changing world, nobody can afford this sort of handicap.

If you are stubborn, have always been stubborn, it's time to shake it up. Stubborn behavior is antiquated and has no place in our lives.

Today is the day to become a "Born Again Stubbornless Individual". If Christians can be born again, so can the stubborn!!!