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  • The most common thing people get confused with between affect and effect

    The two words I see most people often get confused with are affect and effect. They both have different meanings.

    The term “affect” is usually used as a verb. It means to produce a change or influence something or someone. For example, “The rain affected the traffic,” or “The new policy will affect the company’s profits.”

    On the other hand, the term “effect,” is usually used as a noun. It means the result or consequence of something. For example, “The effect of the rain was a flooded street,” or “The new policy had a positive effect on the company’s profits.”

    So, to summarize, “affect” is a verb that means to produce a change or influence. While “effect” is a noun that means the result or consequence of something.

    To put things in perspective in life, are you affecting your life or are you the effect of your life? Kind of like the thermostat-thermometer analogy. As a thermostat, you can change the temperature of the room. Whereas, as a thermometer, you become the temperature of the room. Which one are you? Which one do you want to be?

  • Traits I Think About When It Comes to Mindset

    Mindset Defined

    Mindset refers to the beliefs, attitudes, and assumptions a person holds about themselves, others, and the world around them. It is the lens through which individuals perceive and interpret their experiences and shapes their behaviour and responses.

    A person’s mindset can be either fixed or growth-oriented. A fixed mindset is characterized by a belief that a person’s intelligence, talents, and abilities are predetermined and unchangeable. In contrast, a growth mindset is characterized by a belief that one’s intelligence, talents, and abilities can be developed and improved through effort and learning.

    Mindset can significantly impact a person’s life, affecting their ability to achieve their goals and overcome challenges. A growth mindset, for example, can lead to increased resilience, motivation, and achievement, while a fixed mindset can lead to a fear of failure and a reluctance to take risks.

    Fixed Mindset Traits

    People with fixed mindsets tend to have a specific set of traits and beliefs that distinguish them from those with growth mindsets. Here are some common traits of people with fixed mindsets:

    1. Belief in innate talent: People with fixed mindsets tend to believe that their abilities are predetermined and fixed, based on their innate talent. They often believe that success comes easily to those with natural talent and that effort and hard work are not as important.
    2. Fear of failure: People with fixed mindsets often fear failure because they see it as a reflection of their abilities and identity. They may avoid challenges and opportunities that could lead to failure, preferring to stick to what they know they are good at.
    3. Resistance to feedback: People with fixed mindsets may be resistant to feedback, especially criticism, as they see it as a threat to their self-image. They may take feedback personally and see it as a reflection of their abilities rather than an opportunity for growth.
    4. Limited view of success: People with fixed mindsets often have a limited view of what success means. They may define success in terms of achievement, status, or recognition, rather than personal growth or learning.
    5. Avoidance of challenges: People with fixed mindsets may avoid challenges because they see them as threats to their self-image and abilities. They may prefer to stick to what they know they can do well, rather than taking risks or trying new things.

    It’s worth noting that many people exhibit a mix of fixed and growth mindsets, and it’s possible to develop a growth mindset through intentional effort and practice.

    Growth Mindset Traits

    People with growth mindsets tend to have a specific set of traits and beliefs that distinguish them from those with fixed mindsets. Here are some common traits of people with growth mindsets:

    1. Belief in the power of effort: People with growth mindsets believe that they can develop their abilities through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. They see challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.
    2. Embracing challenges: People with growth mindsets embrace challenges and are willing to take risks. They see challenges as opportunities to learn and improve, and are not discouraged by setbacks.
    3. Openness to feedback: People with growth mindsets are open to feedback, including criticism. They see feedback as an opportunity for learning and growth, and are not threatened by criticism.
    4. Persistence: People with growth mindsets are persistent and resilient. They are not discouraged by setbacks and failures, and are willing to try again and again until they succeed.
    5. View of success: People with growth mindsets have a broader view of success. They define success in terms of personal growth, learning, and improvement, rather than just achievement or recognition.

    It’s worth noting that many people exhibit a mix of fixed and growth mindsets, and it’s possible to develop a growth mindset through intentional effort and practice.

    Transitioning from Fixed Mindset to Growth Mindset

    If you have a fixed mindset and would like to transition to a growth mindset, here are some suggestions:

    1. Recognize your fixed mindset: The first step in transitioning to a growth mindset is to recognize the areas in which you hold a fixed mindset. Pay attention to your beliefs about your abilities, talents, and potential. Identify areas where you avoid challenges or see effort as pointless.
    2. Challenge your beliefs: Once you have identified your fixed mindset, challenge those beliefs. Look for evidence that contradicts your beliefs, and try to reframe your thinking in a more growth-oriented way. For example, when facing a challenge, remind yourself that the effort you put in will help you grow and improve.
    3. Embrace challenges: Seek out challenges and opportunities for growth. Take on tasks that push you out of your comfort zone, and be willing to try new things. When you face setbacks or failures, view them as opportunities to learn and grow.
    4. Cultivate a learning mindset: Focus on the process of learning, rather than just the outcome. Celebrate progress and improvement, and be open to feedback and criticism. Recognize that learning and growth are ongoing processes that require effort and dedication.
    5. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and avoid negative self-talk. Recognize that learning and growth involve setbacks and failures, and be gentle with yourself when you experience them. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer a friend.

    Transitioning from a fixed to a growth mindset takes time and effort, but with practice, it is possible to develop a more growth-oriented approach to life. By challenging your beliefs, embracing challenges, and focusing on learning and growth, you can cultivate a mindset that allows you to reach your full potential.

    Which mindset do you currently have? How do you want to change or improve your current mindset?

  • Why is setting goals important?

    Setting goals is important for several reasons:

    1. Provides direction and focus: Goals provide direction and focus by helping you identify what you want to achieve. Also, it helps to know what actions to take to reach your desired outcome.
    2. Increases motivation: Goals provide a source of motivation by creating a clear target to aim for. When you have a clear goal in mind, you are more likely to work harder and stay committed to achieving it.
    3. Helps measure progress: Goals provide a way to measure progress by creating a benchmark. This is helpful to track your achievements.
    4. Builds confidence and self-esteem:  When you see you are capable of achieving what you set out to do, this builds confidence and self-esteem.
    5. Encourages growth and learning: You develop new skills and knowledge by pushing yourself outside of your comfort. Setting these goals encourages growth and learning.
    6. Provides a sense of purpose: Goals give you something to strive for. It creates a sense of accomplishment when you reach your target.
    7. Enhances decision-making: Goals provide a clear framework to evaluate your options and choices aligned with your desired outcome.

    In summary, setting goals is important because it provides direction, increases motivation, measures progress, builds confidence and self-esteem, encourages growth and learning, provides a sense of purpose, and enhances decision-making.

    What else would you add to the above and why?

  • Advice I would give to my teenage self

    What advice would you give to your teenage self?

    The one advice I would give to my teenage self is a higher education degree does not necessarily correlate with a higher salary.

    Sure, it depends on the speciality but is not necessarily true for all degrees. In my case, all my degrees are liberal arts degrees.

    Another thing I’d add is that being a high paid employee doesn’t guarantee financial freedom. At the end of the day, employees are taxed. And especially more when they’re on the higher tax bracket.

    So, I’ll encourage my teenage self to explore the entrepreneurship path as well. This will come along with other skills to be developed as well.

    Anything else you’ll like to add that you want to advise to your teenage self?

  • Top 10 Habits of Wealthy People

    1. Goal Setting: Wealthy people focus on setting clear and specific goals. The goals they focus on are both short-term and long-term. They have a vision for their financial future and commit to achieving it.
    2. Continuous Learning: Wealthy people understand that knowledge is power. Also, they seek new information and skills to improve their financial literacy and business acumen.
    3. Budgeting: Wealthy people are diligent in tracking their expenses. As well as creating a budget to manage their cash flow.
    4. Investing: Wealthy people understand the power of investing in assets that generate passive income. Some examples of passive income are stocks, real estate, and business ventures.
    5. Networking: Wealthy people recognize the value of building relationships. Also, they network to create opportunities for growth and success.
    6. Discipline. Wealthy people exhibit discipline in their financial habits. Also, they avoid impulsive purchases and stick to their budget and investment plans.
    7. Resilience: Wealthy people are resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. They are persistent in pursuing their goals despite obstacles and setbacks.
    8. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Wealthy people have an entrepreneurial mindset. They are always seeking out opportunities to create new businesses and income streams.
    9. Giving Back: Wealthy people are often philanthropic. They enjoy giving back to their communities and supporting charitable causes.
    10. Health and Wellness: Wealthy people prioritize their health and wellness. They recognize that a healthy mind and body are essential for long-term success and wealth creation.

    Comment below to let me know if there’s anything else to add!

  • The ONE Thing I Usually Do When Picking Up Groceries

    The other day I went to pick up groceries. You know when you order groceries through an app then you get assigned a date and time when they’re ready to be picked up? That.

    Sometimes I go by myself, sometimes with my wife, or with my toddler. Or all of them together. Anyway, at times, when I go by myself or just with my toddlers, I’d arrive and park at the stall. Then I’ll call the number on the stall through on-demand interpreting services. Or most know this as VRS. Then I’d give the name and stall number I’m parked in. Then while waiting, if I’m by myself, I’ll be taking the time to think about my next post or just simply take the time to meditate. If I’m with the kids, then I’ll have a conversation with them.

    Then when the employee comes out with the groceries, I’d typically get out to open the trunk. Usually, my intention is to at least connect with a basic conversation with them. First, I’d sign, “How are you?” The expected response is they freeze like a deer caught in headlights. Then I get sure with the thumbs up. This typically eases the tension. Then I’d get back in the car and let them load the groceries into the trunk. After they’re done, they usually know to get my attention or make eye contact with me before they close the trunk then go. This usually ends with a wave or thumbs up.

    Now, for those you watching or reading this, what would you do in a similar situation like this and why? Comment below. I’m curious to know.

  • Believe in Yourself

    Believing in yourself is a fundamental element of success and happiness in life. It means having a strong sense of confidence, self-worth, and trust in your abilities, talents, and potential. It is about having a positive mindset and a can-do attitude toward life’s challenges and opportunities.

    When you believe in yourself, you are more likely to:

    • take risks
    • pursue your dreams and goals
    • handle setbacks with resilience and determination

    You have a sense of purpose and direction that guides you toward success and fulfillment.

    Believing in yourself is not just about having blind faith in your abilities. It also involves developing self-awareness and a growth mindset. It requires acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses and having the willingness to learn and improve continuously.

    To cultivate self-belief, it is essential to surround yourself with positive influences such as:

    • supportive friends and family
    • mentors
    • role models who inspire you.

    Additionally, taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is crucial by engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

    Remember, self-belief is not something that happens overnight, but it is a process that takes time, effort, and patience. As you develop a stronger sense of self-belief, you will find that your life becomes more meaningful, fulfilling, and successful. So, believe in yourself, trust in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to take on life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.

    P.S. If you’re looking for a community of mentors to help you pursue your dreams and goals, click on the button below to join the community I’m in.

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  • What is ‘Tuesday’ pronounced as?

    As a Deaf person who can read lips to an extent, I noticed there were variations how ‘Tuesday’ was pronounced. So, I decided to look it up and this is what I found:

    Research shows the word ‘Tuesday’ is mispronounced by a large number of people.

    In British English, it’s commonly pronounced as /ˈtʃuːzdeɪ/, just like ‘choozday’.

    In American English, it’s /ˈtuːzdeɪ/, just like ‘toozday’.

    I find this fascinating how both are in English but pronounced differently. There is no distinction when reading it in text only but when it comes to speaking, they are indeed different.

    I like the British English way of pronouncing it since we do have choices we can choose from the way how we think, feel, respond, behave, etc. I think this if the beauty of being human. Unlike the American English way, ‘toozday’, you can choose how you want to live your life more than just 2 choices.

    Oh, and a tip: ‘Tuesday’ is always capitalized because it’s a proper noun like other days of the week.

  • The one skill that I wish schools taught

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    As a PhD drop out, I’m actually learning more about life from a high school drop out. Even more so when they’re earning a 6-7 figure income. This one skill I wished I learned was this timeless system.

    Instead of explaining what the skill is, I’ll share how I learned about it. I came across the 7 Day Shift by Jeff and Jessica Samis. This shifted gears for me and made me realize that making income online was simpler than I imagined it to be. I used to believe that going to school and then getting a higher degree will help increase my income. I couldn’t be farther from the truth.

    When I learned of this skill, I already made a sale within 3 days of implementing what I learned! This came with step-by-step learning along with guidance and a community of like-minded people to move quicker. This made how to leverage a tool that automates the system. Even more so, it’s run on a proven system with no risk.

    Whenever you’re ready to learn this skill, click on the button below to get started!

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  • Here are 10 tips for developing self-awareness:

    1. Practice mindfulness: Take some time to tune in to your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations in the present moment.

    2. Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings and reflect on them to gain insights into your emotions and thought patterns.

    3. Ask for feedback: Seek feedback from others about your behaviours, attitudes, and actions to gain a different perspective on how others perceive you.

    4. Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your actions, thoughts, and behaviours and identify patterns and tendencies.

    5. Learn your triggers: Identify the situations, events, or people that trigger certain emotional reactions in you and explore why they affect you.

    6. Seek out different perspectives: Be open to different perspectives, opinions, and ideas that challenge your existing beliefs.

    7. Stay curious: Continuously learn new things about yourself and the world around you, and explore different approaches to self-improvement.

    8. Be honest with yourself: Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses, acknowledge your mistakes, and take responsibility for your actions.

    9. Practice self-compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself, and avoid harsh self-criticism that can inhibit self-awareness.

    10. Seek professional help: Consider seeking professional help to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, particularly if you are struggling with mental health issues that may be impacting your self-awareness.