Thursday, April 29, 2010

Thursday Talk

Complaining is human nature. None of us are happy all of the time. We have our moments. Unfortunately, there are those that extend the "whining" if you will, longer than normal and become profoundly lost in it. I'm guilty of that from time to time, like any other person, but I don't make a habit of it. I seriously feel it can become an addiction. People get used to voicing their frustrations, bitterness, anger, unhappiness, etc..that life on a different day without it may seem abnormal. It's almost similar to cigarette smoking. They know it's not healthy and that it may eventually kill them, but still they continue to smoke. Nothing is done to change or improve their situation even though the facts are laid out on the table. Before you fall into this deep black hole, stop yourself. It may be cliche, but when you're able to recognize or be aware of those around you who have it worse, it does give you an inner perspective of your own present life. Not so bad, right?

Often times, we forget how lucky we are in our lives because we're so absorbed in our own drama. We take loved ones for granted and not value the relationships that we have with those close to us. Our thinking is more concentrated on what is here and now. Getting used to something or someone happens. It's not until we are thrown a loss or tragedy that we become grateful. How about when we stumble on a glimpse of someone else's dysfunctional world that we feel blessed. Why does it have to come down to that? Again, it's all about self-pity and self-centeredness. Life isn't a bowl of cherries and a barrel of monkeys. It's never going to be exactly how you want it. It's the way you deal with each obstacle and that ball coming from left field. When you grasp hold of whatever is tossed your way, figure out what needs to be done and solve it efficiently. Don't waste time feeling sorry for yourself and wishing that someone else would make things better for you. No one is responsible for your own happiness.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Tuesday Tackles

I'm a little gadget geek when it comes to technology. How something ticks fascinates me. As with everything in life, I believe that all things has its good and bad. With that being said, I'm attached to my laptop and smartphone like the rest of the population these days. Sometimes it creates problems that frustrate the hell out of me and causes me to want to chuck it through the window. It can be a love/hate relationship. We can't live with it our without it depending on the situation. I've had different types/brands of cell phones and computers. They had their respective pluses and minuses. I understand that nothing is ever going to be perfect, but my search continues....for those that are close.

Nowadays, I consider myself an Apple snob. I tried it and I liked it, but for my own reasons. Never thought I would succumb to the "bandwagon" disease. *Laughs* Actually, I did my research, shopped around and made my decisions wisely. I found that Macs are truly user-friendly. What took me 3 -4 steps before on the PC, I can now do with 1 step. It's great for graphic designing and the artsy people who have plenty of creativity to set free. It took me awhile to get used to because I was "trained" to do things the hard way. With Macs, I'm flabbergasted with, "That's all there is to it?"

The Blackberry was a joy to have, but web surfing was not up to par. The trackball would get stuck and the screen was too small. The resolution didn't woo me much either. The iPhone was the next choice I made after falling in love with Macs. I basically have a portable computer/laptop in the palm of my hand. Being constantly on the go, this is a Godsend. I don't have to be chained down to my desk for hours and everyone is accessible, no matter where I am. Likewise of course. There's oodles of Apps available, which can be overwhelming. It's best to add only those that you really need and will use. Below are a few worth checking out.
  1. Barcode - Scan the UPC on any product in a store to find prices at other places. Who knows! You might discover a better deal elsewhere.
  2. Yowza - Actual, current coupons to utilize at the registers from establishments near your location. The days of clipping and collecting wads of coupons in your wallet or purse can be eliminated.
  3. Yelp - Find a business or restaurant from your location. Craving for great seafood, but don't know where to go while you're traveling through a city? Want reviews before you go? It's got it!
I hope this was useful for someone. Just my thoughts for this glorious Tuesday. 3 more days till the weekend!


Monday, April 26, 2010

Monday Tidbits

It's a new day and I'm ready for it. Are you? Don't think of it as a drag, but the start of productivity for the week. Positive thinking does wonders! I know....easier said than done, but if things aren't impossible, why not try it? Get some type of juice in that favorite mug of yours and start rockin'!

No matter when you begin, proper time management is everything. Divide your hours down on paper if necessary. I usually jot it to my mental notepad. Set your priority list, weed out the "not so important" or "detrimental at this very minute" and check them off as you go down that list. Decide the main things that you want to achieve today and go for it! Give yourself deadlines too. Remember to squeeze in some time for relieving your mind and body, even for a few minutes during the day. Go outside for a breath of fresh air. Grab a snack. Call a friend just to say "Hello". When you feel that you're about to reach that stress level, leave your desk or situation for a bit. Think of it this way, you've already nailed down most of Monday. The ability to reach at least half of your goals is better than nothing. Give yourself some credit.