Wisdom

How to Build Character: 11 Steps to Success

08/24/2025 by

How to build character is a question many people ask me frequently.

Whether it’s someone seeking to build their character or wanting to help improve someone else’s character, it’s a question that concerns many of us.

However, there is an obvious supplementary question. What do we mean by character?

There’s a difference between being a character and being a person of character.

The former expression refers to someone being a little bit eccentric, perhaps a natural wit, or even a raconteur. However, that’s not the subject of this post, despite those being admirable qualities, of course.

The point being considered here is how to become a person of character.

So what does it mean to be a person of character?

First of all, people of character usually do what is right regardless of whether they’re being watched or not.

They also display traits such as honesty, integrity, courage, manners, self-reliance, commitment, and determination.

The comedian Will Rogers once jokingly observed that to be of character, people should “live in such a way that they wouldn’t be ashamed to sell their parrot to the town gossip.”

So being of good character is an important thing to be, I think.

How to build character
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Developing good character:

If achieving sustained success is your aim, then talent alone isn’t enough. Talent might get you into the limelight briefly, but without strong character, you’re unlikely to remain there for too long.

The process of developing good character is ongoing, too. So you have to keep working on it.

Essentially, a person’s character is composed of three things:

  1. Values: having the right values and knowing what matters most.
  2. Doing what is right: even when no one is watching.
  3. Being a decent person: that means showing wisdom, honesty, integrity, love, humility, loyalty, courage, compassion, empathy, self-awareness, and a willingness to recognize fair criticism.

We all have at least some work to do if we are to become and remain people of good character.

This is an area where constant improvement is necessary, regardless of your current level of performance.

Some people may be well on the way to being of good character, while others may still have a lot of work to do.

However, those that are still some way off can change, and they can grow in character. You can be better if you want to be better, and you can practice the habits necessary. These include:

How to build character:

1. Decide you’ll be better:

As mature adults, our first duty is to take care of ourselves and to be the best people we can be. To live lives worthy of respect. So decide to be the person you really could be.

2. Ask searching questions:

It is a fact that too many people go to their graves with their full potential unrealized.

They never quite develop their characters to the point where they leave a genuine legacy and an example for others to follow.

Ask yourself this question: “If I were to die tomorrow, how would I be remembered at my funeral?”

What would people say about you? What qualities would they use to describe you?

How would you prefer to be remembered?

What would you like people to say about you? And how can you change now to ensure they do?

Depending on the answers to those questions, you may well decide to make a few changes in your life.

3. Step out of your comfort zone:

We grow as people in that area beyond our comfort zone.

So, set yourself some challenges that stretch you.

Don’t fear failure. There’s no such thing. Just opportunities to learn and start again, better prepared.

Conquering the challenges you set yourself will help you grow in character.

4. Life-long learning:

It doesn’t matter how good you are; there’s always room for improvement.

Improvement comes through education and learning, whether formal or informal.

That valuable commodity known as experience is gained by doing things, perhaps making some mistakes, and then learning the lessons from those mistakes.

Nothing is more valuable to us than the lessons we learn from the mistakes we make. Those are lessons we’ll never forget.

5. Work on yourself:

To quote the late, great Jim Rohn, “Work harder on yourself than you do on your job.” We’re all works in progress. Make sure you keep getting better.

Don’t leave them saying, “She used to be really good.” When they speak of you, make sure they say, “She just keeps getting better. She’s an example to us all.” That applies equally to ‘He’ too, of course.

6. Never fear failure:

How often are we reluctant to try something for fear that we might fail?

But what is failure? It’s just an outcome we didn’t want and a lesson to be learned.

So we should embrace our failures. We can use them to our advantage.

If we’re willing to try again, we do so with more information and experience.

Failure is not something to fear; it’s something that allows us to learn.

So, never, ever fear failure.

7. Pursue excellence:

If anything is worth doing, then it’s worth doing properly. The way you live your life is no exception.

8. Add value:

Our contribution to society is in the value we add.

That might be in the example we set or the work that we produce.

We don’t get paid for the hour. What we actually get paid for is the value that we put into the hour. So make sure you leave every situation better than you found it.

9. Accept every challenge:

Never underestimate the importance of taking on a challenge.

A challenge provides us with experience through which we’ll learn powerful lessons.

It’s also the means through which character is developed in the process.

Not only will you learn more about your character, but you’ll also learn about your capacity to achieve.

10. Be determined:

If success is your aim, it won’t happen without hard work and determination.

Being good is not enough. You must be determined to get to where you want to go. That’s everything if success is your aim.

11. Be persistent:

Never accept an answer unless it’s the one you want.

And never accept any outcome as the final outcome unless it’s the one that you want.

Most importantly, never quit until you reach your desired destination or you’ve achieved the goal that you set for yourself.

Remember, winners never quit, and quitters never win.

You can be the winner you’re destined to be with determination and hard work.

Where to go from here?

If you recognize the need to change, start with your values.

What values will you live by from now until you are dead?

Now, of course, it’s not just about values but value too. Be a person with values and of value.

So, what value will you add to the lives of others from now on?

Then think about challenges you could take on to build your character.

In taking on a challenge, we can often surprise ourselves in terms of just how far we can go.

Through a challenge, you can learn new skills, sharpen existing skills, and improve your self-confidence.

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You’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

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How to love your job when you hate it

08/05/2025 by

How to love your job when you hate it? A question I’ve been asked numerous times. My response is always the same. The best way to appreciate the job you have is to imagine your life without it.

That starts with taking a closer look at what’s good about the job. There’s usually some aspect of the job we enjoy, even if it’s only the swivel chair we sit in.

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Life’s too short to hate your job

Do you hate your job, dear reader?

Do you tell everyone, at every opportunity, that you hate your job?

By telling everyone you hate your job, do you imagine they’ll be impressed or, in some way, feel sympathy for you?

Maybe you think that by doing this, your fellow workers will regard you as someone unafraid to speak their mind.

Perhaps you think that in the eyes of your fellow workers, this approach will make you look good.

Hold that thought, and then consider this question. How do you feel about working with someone else who’s always moaning about how unhappy they are at their job?

Do you admire that person?

Do they impress you with their negativity?

I’m guessing your response to this question will be negative. I’m sure you’ll be unimpressed with such people. After all, most of us are.

Everyone hates a moaner

If you imagined that moaning about how unhappy you are was the best way to get people on your side, then seriously, you need to think again. Everyone hates a moaner, whatever indications you’ve heard to the contrary. Let me tell you this: no one’s impressed.

Your colleagues may not say so, but they’ll find your negativity irritating at the very least. It’s probably driving them all nuts.

Life’s short, and it’s hard enough for most people. So having some moaning Minnie constantly bringing them down makes life harder.

Constant negativity is just a pain in the rear for most people.

Imagine your life without your job

If your current mindset means you hate your job right now, then the first thing to do is start changing that mindset. Start by looking at your job differently.

How?

Well, imagine your life without your current job. What would that be like? Think about that question carefully, and be honest with yourself.

Without your job, you’d have nothing to do, no reason to get out of bed, nowhere to go, no sense of purpose, nothing to challenge you, no money, and you’d be without the camaraderie of your fellow workers. You’d probably feel lonely and lack any real social life, too.

How would that make you feel?

Would you feel better about yourself without those things?

I’m sure if you’re honest with yourself, you’ll recognise that work gives us far more than we realise. I don’t think you’d be happy without all those things mentioned above.

So the best way to begin appreciating your job is to imagine your life without it.

No job is perfect

Most jobs come with an element of frustration and a spoonful of tedium. That’s life.

No job is perfect, but no job is all bad either.

It’s just a matter of how you choose to look at things.

If you focus on the bad things, then everything will seem bad. However, if you focus on the good bits, then your job can begin to look very different, and you’ll start to feel more positive about your work.

The fact is, we all need to do something with our time, surely?

Even millionaires need something to fill their time.

There are only so many holidays you can take and so much shopping you can do.

Eventually, everyone needs a sense of purpose, and we all want to feel that we’re making a contribution to the world around us.

Life’s a short movie

Life’s far too short to be unhappy.

So if you hate your job, then you have two choices:

  1. You find another job, or
  2. You start looking differently at your current job.

And before you start searching the vacancy columns or the job websites, think carefully about what you might be throwing away should you leave your current job.

Moving to another job doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be any happier.

Neither will it guarantee that you’ll find the perfect job for you.

So it’s worth thinking seriously about your current job first. At least it’s the devil you know.

Can you begin to look at your current job differently? Perhaps you need a little help.

I really hate my job

Here’s a great motivational speech from the late Zig Ziglar that you might find very useful.

It’s full of great advice and well worth a few minutes of your time.

If you don’t like your job right now, then you really should watch it.

Even if you do like your job, watch it anyway. I found it truly inspirational. So take a look at it now.

How to love your job when you hate it (Video)

Further Listening:

I’m a huge fan of Zig Ziglar, but I recognise that he had an evangelical presentation style that’s not to everyone’s taste.

However, if you can get beyond that presentation style, then his words are inspirational and informative.

I particularly like his audiobooks, which I listen to constantly when I’m driving.

One audiobook I can recommend is:

The Born to Win Seminar

Listen to this, and I promise you it will help you discover your untapped greatness and guide you towards greater success in life.

I bought my copy of this audio program for my library, and it was well worth the price. I listen to it over and over again, and I always find something new in his words.

You can check out this audio program if you click on the buttons below.

View at Amazon USA
View at Amazon UK

DISCLOSURE: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase via the links here, I will receive a small commission. There will be no additional charge to you. Your understanding is appreciated, dear reader. Thank you.

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Did you find this article and the video interesting and valuable, dear reader?

If so, then please share this post on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

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Audible Review: Elevating Continuous Learning

07/28/2025 by
Audible Review

The Pros, The Cons, and Why It’s Essential

If you’re looking for an Audible review, then this article has been written for you, dear reader.

Introduction:

We live in an era where change occurs at an increasingly rapid pace. Sometimes it can be frightening how quickly things are changing, particularly with technology.

However, with change comes opportunity. And to seize opportunity, we must be ready when it arrives. Those who are well-prepared and fleet-footed are the people who will benefit most from change. That could be you, of course.

But how do you ensure you are well-prepared? That comes from continuous learning, and not necessarily in a traditional classroom setting. Self-teaching can be more effective than a classroom setting. Learning in your own time and at your own pace.

But how? By reading constantly. If you read a book a week, in a year you will have gained a PhD’s worth of knowledge.

Now, you might say, I don’t have time to read a book a week. Fair comment!

However, how often do you drive in your car or travel on public transport? How frequently do you wait in queues or exercise in the gym? If you think about it, in any given week, there will be plenty of downtime or time you could listen to something while other things are going on.

Listening to audiobooks during these times could allow you to consume that one book a week. And if you did that over a year or two on subjects of your choice, you would become the go-to person for advice and guidance.

Gaining this knowledge can put you in a powerful position. But where do you start?

The answer is Audible, a powerful audiobook service that is perfect for the continuous learner.

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Dive into the Pros of Audible:

Audible isn’t just an audiobook service; it’s a portal to continuous learning, entertainment, and personal growth. Here’s why millions are hooked:

  • Unparalleled convenience: Listen anytime, anywhere. Commuting, working out, doing chores – Audible seamlessly integrates into your daily life.
  • Vast library: Millions of titles across every genre imaginable. From bestsellers to academic deep dives, Audible’s catalogue is staggering.
  • Professional narration: Experience stories and information brought to life by talented narrators. The right voice can transform a good book into an unforgettable experience.
  • Offline listening: Download your audiobooks and listen without an internet connection. Perfect for travel or areas with patchy internet coverage.
  • Audible originals: Exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else, including original stories, podcasts, and more.
  • Sleep timer and variable playback speed: Customise your listening experience to fit your needs. Fall asleep to a soothing story or speed up lectures to maximise your learning time.
  • Whispersync for Voice: Seamlessly switch between reading and listening with Kindle integration. Pick up right where you left off, no matter how you consume the content.

And the Cons of Audible? What to consider?

A review cannot be helpful unless it considers both the pros and the cons. So, allow me now to discuss the latter.

While Audible offers a wealth of benefits, it’s essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks as well. These are:

  • Cost: The subscription fee and individual audiobook prices can add up. Consider whether you’ll listen enough to justify the expense.
  • Limited credit use: Some users find the monthly credit system restrictive. You may end up with unused credits or feeling pressured to buy books you don’t want.
  • Not a complete replacement for reading: Listening is different from reading. You may not retain information as effectively as you would with traditional reading.
  • Finding the right narrator: Narration can make or break an audiobook. Sometimes you must sample several books before finding a narrator you enjoy.
  • DRM restrictions: Audiobooks are DRM-protected, meaning you can only listen to them on authorised devices.
  • The App can be glitchy: Occasional bugs or syncing issues can disrupt your listening experience, though these are usually resolved quickly.

Why Audible is Essential for Continuous Learning

In today’s fast-paced world, continuous learning is not only desirable but a necessity. Audible empowers you to learn and grow during moments that would otherwise be wasted. Imagine turning your commute into a mini-course or absorbing the latest AI techniques while you exercise.

Audible makes education accessible and convenient, transforming mundane routines into opportunities for personal growth and improvement. It’s an investment in your future and a powerful tool for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve.

The Verdict

Audible is a worthwhile investment for those seeking convenient access to a vast library of audio content and who are committed to continuous learning. Despite some drawbacks, such as cost and potential app glitches, the benefits of hands-free education and entertainment far outweigh the cons.

Certainly, it’s worth trying. You can cancel your subscription at any time if you decide it’s not for you.

If you’d like to explore what Audible has to offer, click on the buttons below.

Explore Audible USA
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DISCLOSURE: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you subscribe to Audible or make a purchase via the links provided, please be aware that I will receive a small commission. However, there will not be any additional cost to you. Your understanding is appreciated, dear reader. Thank you.

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So please share it now.

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Thank you for your support, dear reader.

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How to deal with criticism in the workplace

07/27/2025 by

Today’s theme is how to deal with criticism in the workplace.

Have you ever had a problem dealing with criticism in the workplace, dear reader?

If you have, you’re not alone.

HOW TO DEAL WITH CRITICISM IN THE WORKPLACE
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How to deal with criticism in the workplace:

Most of us can be a little sensitive when we’re criticized by other people, particularly in the workplace. That’s natural, and I struggle with it just as much as the next person.

However, over the years, I’ve learned that criticism comes in two types, as follows:

  1. Constructive criticism; and
  2. Destructive criticism

What’s the difference?

People who offer constructive criticism are genuinely trying to help, even if that isn’t immediately obvious.

However, just because they’re trying to help doesn’t necessarily mean they’re right about what they’re saying. I’ll get back to that point shortly.

When you’re subjected to destructive criticism, then someone is just having a go at you. To hurt you, for whatever reason.

That may be to bolster their ego, or they may not like you very much and therefore cannot resist the temptation to belittle you or make you feel generally uncomfortable.

Remember, some people derive pleasure from others’ discomfort and therefore enjoy taking a dig at them when the opportunity arises. These are the haters and the trolls. They exist in the workplace, as well as on social media.

How to deal with constructive criticism:

When you’re on the receiving end of criticism, don’t take any of it personally. Remember, you’re bigger than that.

Just remain calm, listen to what’s being said, consider the person saying it, and, of course, the rationale behind their comment.

As you absorb what has been said to you, ask yourself this question:

“Is this person being constructive or destructive?”

If you feel they’re being constructive in offering their comment, then the next question to ask yourself is, “Do they have a fair point?”

In answering that question, you must be honest with yourself.

Remember, it’s a sign of maturity when you can acknowledge your inexperience and mistakes.

And you can’t learn from your mistakes unless you recognize them first.

So if, after careful reflection, you feel that they do have a fair point, then take it on board and use it as a learning opportunity.

At this point, thank your critic for the feedback and decide how you might use it to improve and be better at what you do.

You might even ask your critic for suggestions if you think they can help you.

Even constructive critics are not always right:

Not every self-appointed critic has a universal monopoly on know-how and common sense, however well-intentioned they may be. Even so-called experts occasionally get things wrong.

So, in reflecting on any constructive criticism offered, your conclusion might be that they don’t have a fair point. And as long as you’re being honest with yourself, it’s perfectly reasonable to say, “You know what? I think they’re wrong.”

If that’s the case, then be polite, thank them for their feedback, and agree to disagree if necessary.

Accept that they offered their comment in good faith and that their intentions were honorable, but move on without any sense of feeling hurt just because someone had the temerity to question your approach.

They’re entitled to their opinion, but you don’t have to accept it.

How to deal with destructive criticism:

If someone is attempting to be destructive in their criticism, then don’t rise to the bait. Just smile politely and move on.

Do not give anyone the satisfaction of a reaction or signs that they’ve gotten to you. That’s the oxygen on which they feed. It’s the dopamine hit they crave.

You’re better than that, so don’t allow yourself to get drawn into their game. They’re unworthy of a reaction or any of your emotional energy.

And never allow such people to chip away at your self-esteem.

That’s what they’re trying to do, so know that, and as you’re smiling, say to yourself, “I’m better than you, and your attempt to have a go at me won’t get you anywhere. So stop wasting your time and mine.“

Conclusion:

Recognize that criticism has two forms. Either way, never take any of it personally, even if you suspect your critic is being personal.

If your critic is being constructive, then be honest with yourself and question whether they have a valid point. If they do have a point, then you must learn from it.

If your critic is being destructive, then do not give them the satisfaction of a reaction. Just smile and move on.

If you’re unsure whether they’re being constructive or destructive, give them the benefit of the doubt, assume they’re being constructive, and act accordingly.

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When you share, everyone wins.

So please share it now.

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Thank you for your support, dear reader.

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Brian Tracy: Habits of success anyone can learn

07/26/2025 by

Today’s theme is the habits of success.

To achieve success, you must develop good habits. That’s a reasonable statement, don’t you think, dear reader?

However, what habits should they be? That’s not so easy to answer, I hear you say.

Well, fear not; in the video included here, Brian Tracy presents some interesting ideas on the habits of success.

I admire Brian Tracy, and I listen to his audio programs frequently in my car.

In my opinion, Brian Tracy is always excellent and always full of wise words and sound advice.

And I can tell you that this video is well worth your time.

Let Brian tell you more about the habits he believes are consistent with achieving success. Please take a few minutes out of your schedule, as you will find it well worth the investment of your time.

Daily Habits of Successful People
Success Habits
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Remember: To be successful at whatever pursuit you choose, it must matter to you. It must really, really matter, to the point of obsession. Success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of dedication, focus, and a willingness to do whatever it takes. 

Habits of Success:

Further Reading:

If success is your goal, then you need to start reading, if you haven’t already. One habit that is common to successful people is that they are all readers.

There are numerous inspirational books available on the market, not only by Brian Tracy, but also by notable authors such as Dale Carnegie, Tony Robbins, Jim Rohn, Jack Canfield, Bob Proctor, Timothy Ferriss, and Professor Steve Peters.

Why not build a small personal library? You don’t need a spare room, just a space in the corner for a bookshelf on which you can store all those words of inspiration that can inspire you to work towards becoming everything you could be and more.

Click the buttons below to start exploring Amazon now. Please don’t put it off until someday because someday never comes. So, do it now! Start as you mean to go on.

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DISCLOSURE: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase through the links provided, please be aware that I will receive a small commission. However, there will not be any additional cost to you. Your understanding is appreciated, dear reader. Thank you.

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Please share this post with your friends:

So, there you have it. The habits of success.

If you found this article helpful, please share it on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

So, please share it now. If you can do that for me, I’ll be ever so grateful, and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

And you’ll be helping your friends too. You can genuinely make a difference in the lives of others.

Thank you. Your support is appreciated.

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How much should I be paid?

07/20/2025 by

Dear reader, have you ever asked yourself the question, “How much should I be paid?” Probably is the answer, I would guess. Most people do at some point. Indeed, it’s a question I’ve asked myself many times.

We live in challenging economic times, so we’re all keen to ensure that we earn as much as we can. The question is, how much?

What is work?

In the modern age, people often prioritise their careers, losing sight of what work is truly about.

A career is a natural progression of jobs within a given profession or industry, through which we develop our skills and gain experience over time. Each of those jobs represents work.

In simple terms, work is just doing something for someone in return for money. Essentially, we provide a service or solve a problem, and an employer is our customer.

We’re paid to deliver results for the employer, with a strong emphasis on delivery.

How much should I be paid
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How much should I be paid?

The financial reward you get for the work you do is based on two things:

  1. The value you can add, and
  2. The laws of supply and demand (also known as the market rate).

The value you can add is directly proportional to the skills you have and your knowledge and experience of the profession or industry in which you are seeking to work.

The supply and demand for your skills and experience within the job market will dictate how much an employer will be prepared to pay.

Why don’t businesses pay people more?

Essentially, labour is a commodity. By definition, a commodity is something that can only be differentiated in terms of price.

None of us will pay more for a commodity than necessary.

For example, suppose you want to buy a loaf of bread, and in one store, it costs $1, while in another store, the same loaf costs $1.50. Which store will you buy from? The $1 store, obviously, because that’s what any rational person would do. Why would anyone pay more than they must?

Businesspeople think in the same way.

Businesses exist to make a profit. Profit is sales income less costs, and, almost always, the biggest cost for any business is the cost of labour.

So, businesses will not pay any more than they must for people. Why would anyone expect it to be otherwise?

An employer doesn’t care about what you think you’re worth.

Your worth to the business will be judged solely on the potential value you can add, as well as the availability and demand for your skills and experience.

How do I measure the value I add?

Essentially, value is another way of saying your skills and experience, dear reader.

Alternatively, for an entry-level job, your value would be your potential.

If an employer is seeking a junior staff member for training, then your aptitude and qualifications would be a proxy for the value you could potentially add once your training has been completed.

I think I’m worth more:

If you think you’re being paid less than you deserve, then you have two options:

  1. Go to your boss and request a raise, or
  2. Test the (job) market.

Either way, you need to do your homework first.

Request a raise:

    Before speaking to your boss about a raise, do some basic research on pay rates for similar jobs to yours with a requirement for the same skills and experience that you offer.

    Also, identify at least three significant things that you do in your current role that make a real difference to the company. Ideally, these should be things only you can do.

    Also, consider how you can do those things you do best more efficiently to enhance your productivity.

    Test the market:

      Even if you’re otherwise happy with your current employer, it can be worth putting yourself about a bit in the job market to see what other companies would be willing to pay you.

      Apply for some other jobs and see what companies are willing to pay you.

      And remember, most companies know that they’ll have to offer an uplift of at least 20% on your current salary to persuade you to take the risk of leaving your current employer, certainly if you’re highly skilled.

      Once you’ve received a suitable offer, you then have two choices.

      Either you accept the offer and move to the new employer, or you take that offer to your current employer and see whether they’re willing to match it.

      I have done this more than once, and it does work.

      Given the cost to the employer of losing a highly valued member of the team, most employers will match an offer rather than lose you.

      And if they’re willing to let you leave, then they didn’t value you, and therefore, you might as well go.

      How do I earn more?

      Another way to think about this is, how do you make yourself more valuable?

      You should continually build your value.

      If you want to earn more, then learn more.

      Work hard on building your experience as well. Be willing and ready to accept new challenges, however daunting, for rough seas make skilled sailors.

      Become the ‘go-to’ person for some activity that is perceived as valuable to the business.

      Your focus should be on ‘what you’re becoming’ rather than any short-term gain, and eventually, you have a good chance of becoming very valuable.

      Think about it this way. Whatever you’re doing, you’re just there to serve customers and solve problems for them.

      There will always be customers for goods and services, some of which have yet to be invented. Goods and services are another way of saying problems customers have that need a solution, and you’re the provider of that solution.

      The greater the skills and experience required to solve those problems, the more you will earn, assuming you have those skills and expertise.

      Know the market rate:

      Every business keeps a close eye on the market rates for given skills and experience. They do this to ensure that they’re not overpaying.

      You should keep a close eye on market rates, too, to ensure that you’re not being underpaid for what you’re doing.

      In short, you must be very disciplined and businesslike in your approach to work and selling your skills.

      Think of yourself as a small business providing goods and services to your boss, your colleagues, and the customers of the company for which you work.

      Conclusion:

      You won’t get paid more than you’re worth.

      However, if you continually increase your value by learning and building your skills and experience, you can earn more.

      Choose a highly skilled discipline with high demand and an undersupply of potential candidates, and you can earn a lot of money.

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      The Value of Time: Life’s most precious resource

      07/19/2025 by

      Today, I am exploring the value of time.

      Life’s most precious resource:

      Let me ask you a question first. What is life’s most precious resource, dear reader?

      Now, many readers might say money.

      However, think about it for a second.

      Certainly, money is a vital resource, particularly in the modern era. And for most people, there’s never quite enough.

      Nevertheless, you can always get more money. You can start a business; you can earn a bigger salary; you could win the lottery; you could even sell some of your possessions, if necessary.

      So, in that sense, money is not a limited resource. You can get more of it.

      Life's most precious resource
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      The importance of time:

      If money’s not the most precious resource, how about time?

      We often fail to appreciate the significance of time, and most of us can be quite wasteful of it, at least occasionally.

      When you think about it, time is a very limited resource. We’re all limited to just 168 hours per week, whether we like it or not.

      None of us can get more hours than that each week, however wealthy we may be. We cannot buy more time, can we?

      And we’re only on this Earth for a finite amount of time, too.

      Precious commodity:

      So if we can’t get any more, time must be a very precious commodity. It must be our most precious commodity.

      It’s the only commodity we cannot get more of, so it’s got to be more precious than anything else, surely?

      Therefore, if time is so precious, we must use it wisely, surely?

      We must guard it carefully. And we must never allow other people to waste our time, certainly if we aim to achieve anything of significance in life.

      Never give your time away cheaply:

      Just because someone asks for a piece of your time, that does not imply an obligation on you to give it to them automatically.

      People are entitled to make such a request, of course. However, it’s perfectly reasonable for you to think about it carefully before deciding whether to agree to their request.

      And it’s perfectly reasonable for you to say NO if you don’t consider what is being asked of you the best use of your time.

      If a NO is the most appropriate response from your standpoint, then so be it.

      Remember, it’s your time:

      NO is the most powerful time management tool you have at your disposal.

      It’s perfectly legitimate for you to have your own aims and your own agenda, and your time should be allocated in such a way that you can achieve whatever it is you’re trying to achieve. So never be afraid to say NO.

      Always be polite, of course, but guard your time very carefully.

      And remember this: it’s your time, and you decide how best to use it.

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      25 facts of life that might get you thinking

      07/15/2025 by
      25 facts of life

      Searching for the facts of life, dear reader? I guess the question is, what do we mean by the facts of life?

      Well, for some, it means the birds and the bees. For me, it means trying to make sense of life and the lived experience.

      Here are 25 facts of life, which are my take on the world based on my own lived experience.

      I hope you find some valuable insights here.

      If you do, please feel free to share them.

      FACTS OF LIFE
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      Facts of life (1-10):

      1. We live by our wits.
      2. Just because it’s dismissed as a conspiracy theory doesn’t mean it’s not true. 
      3. Just because it looks genuine doesn’t mean it’s not fake. That goes for people, too.
      4. Human beings are all flawed. You may not be perfect, but you’re as perfect as the next person. 
      5. Time is more valuable than money. You can earn more money, but you can’t get more time. With time, once it’s gone, it’s gone. Use it wisely. 
      6. We all make a living by selling something to someone. In exchange for adding value in some way to the lives of others, we earn money. Money is a measure of the perceived value we add. 
      7. You can choose to be whatever you want, but you must accept that there will always be trade-offs. Everything comes at a price, and that price must be paid first. 
      8. Life’s what you make it. It will never be perfect, but with hard work and determination, it can be good. However, if you want the best life for yourself, you’ll need to carve it out yourself. 
      9. Just because people don’t share their troubles doesn’t mean they don’t have any. No one can ever truly know the battles other people face. So, be careful when judging. 
      10. You must always be prepared for when opportunity knocks. Life is an endless stream of opportunities just waiting for the fleet-footed and those ready and waiting to seize the day.

      Facts of life (11-17):

      1. There’s only one way to gain experience. The hard way. You can’t train experience. You must go out there, make mistakes, and learn from them. In short, there’s no elevator; you must take the stairs, one by one. 
      2. All too often, people choose to move on because they failed to appreciate what they had. It’s easy to think that the grass is greener somewhere else, but the grass is greener where it’s well-watered.
      3. You may be angry at the way you’ve been treated. You may feel you have every right to be angry. However, a chippy attitude will never win over hearts and minds. You’ll catch more flies with sugar than you will with vinegar. 
      4. Those who can only see virtue in their own opinions are keen to close down those with alternative views because they’re concerned that the public may listen to and be influenced by those with alternative views. 
      5. It’s wrong to think that the law will protect the individual. It won’t. Do or say anything that runs counter to the interests of the powerful elite, and it will come back to bite you. If you want to go against the powerful, you’ll need numbers on your side. 
      6. When the powerful elite suggests the need for limitations on what people are allowed to do, what they have in mind will only apply to ordinary folk. They have no intention of being constrained by such limitations themselves.
      7. Giving is easy, but if you need to take it back, that’s when it gets difficult. Be careful what you give if there’s any possibility you may need to take it back.

      Facts of life (18-25):

      1. Politicians are not on your side. They’re driven by personal ambition and self-interest. Your interests only matter to them when being seen to be doing something for you is helpful to them politically.
      2. It’s unwise to agree to anything that would give any government too much control over your life. You cannot trust a politician. We know that from experience.
      3. There is no such thing as government cash. There’s only taxpayers’ cash. Even when governments borrow money, that’s just money taken now from future taxpayers. Governments have no cash of their own. 
      4. Acting together, we are strong. If enough of us band together, we are invincible. We don’t have to accept all the nonsense. We can and should push back. Operating in significant numbers, we can scare the hell out of the politicians and the powerful elite.
      5. No one grants us freedom. We are free people, and no government should ever be allowed to believe, mistakenly, that it controls us. We have rights; they’re inalienable, and politicians need reminding of that constantly. 
      6. Those seeking to manipulate our language are trying to control the debate. Changing what we say and how we say it is part of an agenda aimed at creating a world that suits their interests but not ours. We must all push back constantly.
      7. Complicating communication can lead to misunderstanding and miscommunication. And misunderstanding and miscommunication can only ever lead to problems and tensions between people. So, please keep it simple, always. 
      8. It’s strange in the modern world that so many seemingly sensible people are willing to accept some ridiculous ideas without question. Never be afraid to challenge the orthodoxy.
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      A Motivational A – Z Guide to Success

      07/14/2025 by

      Looking for a guide to success?

      We could all use one, right?

      Well, here is a concise A-Z guide of the things you will need to bear in mind.

      Perhaps it’s a little oversimplified, if I’m honest, but it does cover all the bases, of that I’m quite sure.

      If you need a guide to success, print this list, pin it above your desk, and refer to it constantly.

      And please pass it on.

      Guide to Success
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      A – Z Guide to Success:

      • (A) Achieve your dreams. Avoid negative people, things, and places.
      • (B) Believe in yourself and in what you can do.
      • (C) Consider every angle and look at things from both sides.
      • (D) Don’t give up and never give in.
      • (E) Enjoy. Motivation happens when you’re happy with life.
      • (F) Family and Friends. Never, ever lose sight of them.
      • (G) Give more than what you believe is enough.
      • (H) Hold on to your dreams. These should drive you onward and upward.
      • (I) Ignore those who belittle your ambition. If you believe you can, what they think is irrelevant.
      • (J) Just be you. The key to failure is trying to please everyone.
      • (K) Keep trying, no matter how hard life may seem.
      • (L) Learn to love yourself. You’re as good as anyone.
      • (M) Make things happen. The harder you work, the luckier you’ll get.
      • (N) Never lie, cheat, or steal. Always play a fair game.
      • (O) Open your eyes. Be aware of what’s going on around you.
      • (P) Practice makes perfect. Be a student of your craft and work towards mastery.
      • (Q) Quitters never win, and winners never quit. Be a winner, not a quitter.
      • (R) Ready yourself. Be prepared and be ready when opportunity strikes.
      • (S) Stop procrastinating. Get on with it. It’s later than you think.
      • (T) Take control of your life. Discipline and self-control are key to success.
      • (U) Understand others. Seek first to understand and then to be understood.
      • (V) Visualize it. What will success look like to you? How will you recognize it?
      • (W) Want it more than anything. It must matter to you if you’re to keep going when it gets hard.
      • (X) X-Factor is that little bit of magic that makes you different from all the other wannabes. When you’re truly motivated, you’ll deliver that extra something that will help you shine like a star. Shine like a star, and you’ll get noticed. Get noticed, and you’re on the way to achieving success.
      • (Y) You are unique. You have special qualities no one else has. So work to your strengths and do the things that only you can do. That way, you will begin to shine like a star.
      • (Z) Zero in on your dreams and go for it. Don’t stop until you get to where you want to be.
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      Valuing people must take precedence in the modern age

      07/13/2025 by

      Valuing People:

      Today, the theme is valuing people. This issue is much more important than you might think.

      Valuing people
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      Why Valuing People Matters:

      One thing you’ll learn as you get older is the importance of valuing people.

      We can all get so carried away with our work and careers that we can forget what matters most.

      Now I’m sure that your work is important to you, and perhaps you even believe that you’re indispensable to your employer.

      If you believe that, then all I can say is, dream on.

      From experience, I can tell you that there’s no such thing as indispensable when it comes to being employed.

      If you were to die tomorrow, your employer would replace you in a heartbeat, and the company would carry on without you. You won’t be missed for long, and in all probability, you’d be forgotten fairly quickly.

      That’s why it’s essential to ensure that your life has balance.

      Yes, of course, you need to work to earn an income to put a roof over your head and bread on the table. So in that sense, work’s essential.

      It’s also a good thing to have a genuine sense of purpose. We all need that.

      However, work shouldn’t be everything to you. Some things are much more important.

      Don’t let time slip through your fingers without having spent some of it regularly with those that matter to you—the people closest to your heart. In other words, your loved ones.

      Your employer may not miss you for very long should you pass away, but the family and friends you leave behind would feel a sense of loss for the rest of their lives.

      For family and friends, you cannot be replaced.

      It’s later than you think:

      Work gives us a sense of purpose and identity, but only people truly matter. Therefore, valuing people must always take precedence over work and material things.

      So make sure you enjoy some time with those that matter to you before it’s too late.

      And, you never know, it could be later than you think.

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      Thank you for your support.

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