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Jan. 15, 2005 To some it may seem rather rudimentary in nature. Like ideologies expressed in the book “Everything I Needed to Know about Life I learned in Kindergarten.” While for others, it’s a foreign concept, or one perhaps too simplistic to give serious weight or consideration. Yet, good habits are as crucial to success (in any endeavor), as a good education or knowing the right people. It operates almost like the Rule of 72 in finance. A rule or principle that illustrates how money invested at a certain rate of return, over an extended period of time, compounds doubly. Even in small increments. The same holds true of sweat equity. Good habits developed and maintained over a length of time pay off! Contrary to popular belief, there are very few short cuts in life. Recently, I was talking over the phone to a friend of mine, sharing good news about a writing project. I had just gotten news that my work had been accepted for publication by a major publisher, for inclusion in a popular women’s anthology. My friend, in turn, commented on how “lucky” I had been in my literary career. And also how “blessed”. Certainly I did not negate the Creator’s divine assistance and guidance. Where would any of us be without it? But He doesn’t show nepotism! God helps those who help themselves. He gives us each the same 24 hours, the same 7 days. Regardless of race, religion, gender, color, education or bank balance. Success in life is greatly determined in how we use them. My literary and academic successes have been the byproduct of diligence, discipline, and determination. Of course my O.C.D. didn’t hurt either! There are a few cliches in life that I live by, in order to get by! Here, for the first time in print, I share them with you! 1. I ADOPT THE BOYSCOUTS’ MOTTO- “Always be prepared.” There are many things in life for which we have no control--- Death, loss of a loved one, taxes, illness, war, a lover who turns out to be a louse, corporate downsizing, etc. But, fortunately there are some in which we do. For example, when I lost my job a few years ago, though in debt, I wasn’t devastated by it. Why? Because I have always made a habit of having more than one source of income (particularly important for women). 2. I SUBSCRIBE TO THE ADAGE “Everything in its place and a place for everything.” I am rarely late for anything. The reason? I am organized and ritualistic in my habits. Few realize that it’s just as easy to establish good habits as bad ones. When I enter my door, I hang everything up and put everything up (and typically in the same location). That way I don’t spend endless hours searching for lost keys, missing socks, important documents, etc. Thereby allowing me to manage time well and give everything the attention it deserves. 3. I BELIEVE THAT “THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM.” Rain or shine, you can catch me at my computer religiously at 6:30 a.m. It’s always good to be in sync with how your body works, and what aids your productivity. I like to get as much done as early as possible, so I can be idle without angst later in the day. And as I get older, I find I tire easier and earlier! 4. I MAKE A HABIT OF SETTING CONCRETE GOALS AND DEADLINES. If you don’t know where you wanna’ be next month, next year, how on earth will you get there? Do I have any negative habits? You betcha! I don't diet, detest exercise, and am honest to a fault! But the key is to have few vices, so you can have many victories! Why not start the new year off by establishing one good habit and keeping it? The pay off will be much greater than you think! ------------ About the author: Jennifer Brown Banks is an award-winning poet and popular feature writer. She is the founder and president of Poets United to Advance the Arts. Her upcoming book of poetry, "A Paradox in Pink" is scheduled to be released in Spring 2005. Email: jenniferwriter@yahoo.com Tell a friend about this site! ------------ All articles are EXCLUSIVE to Useless-Knowledge.com and are not allowed to be posted on other websites. ARTICLE THIEVES WILL BE PROSECUTED! |
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