7 Warning Signs That You're Clueless On The Importance Of Being On Time

The importance of being on time cannot only be defined by what's lost, but by how one feels while waiting for you.

This crazy concept dates all the way back to George Washington. A leader, a visionary and an extremely busy man, he was never late. He believed by being on time you were showing others respect. He also demanded this form of respect in return.

Are you always late?

If the answer is yes, then you're clueless on the true importance of being on time.

Punctuality, a Sign of Respect

I had a young college student working for me at an entry-level position. There was room to grow if he had the initiative and drive to succeed.

However, it turned out this young student had a punctuality issue. Day after day, week after week he made it very clear he didn't care about us or our time. After being told to get into work on time, he would continue to drag his feet into the office.

This "I don't care attitude" ended him in the unemployment line... unfortunately.

What if you were waiting on a vendor to sell you something? Would his tardiness work against his credibility? Absolutely!

You would be annoyed, upset and felt taken advantage of.

7 Warning Signs You May Be Clueless On The Importance Of Being On Time

1) You Have No Humility - If you think being late is a "grand entrance" you live on another planet. No one is waiting to see you walk through the door.

2) You Believe It's Not A Sign Of Respect - If you show up late you're saying that your needs are more important than others'. A selfish act is not a sign of respect.

3) You Say It's Not A Form Of Stealing - You are taking precious time from someone else. You may not lose a hand over it but you're stealing the valuable time of others.

4) You Think Its Not A Disturbance - When your late others have to change their schedule, of course it disturbs others.

5) You Feel It Doesn't undervalue your relationships - When you're late you're showing that your time is more valuable. Who cares about them as long as you get what you want right?

6) You have an excuse every time your late - Having an excuse for everything is a sure sign you don't understand accountability. An excuse is the gasoline to a fire and once your excuses burn, they mean nothing.

7) You always wonder what the big deal is - This screams that you don't care about the other people who wait around for you.

Take Extra Time

Make an effort to get where you need to by planning 20 minutes ahead. If your 20 minutes early, that's great, but if something comes up or gets in your way you've just bought yourself 20 extra minutes.

Lets call it an insurance policy for your tardiness problem.

Take extra time to get where you need to go ahead of schedule. It's really that easy.

Lets face it, constantly being late is a selfish act. Give me one good reason otherwise.

The more you put your own self interests over others, the more you'll see issues taking over your life.

Nobody gets very far by only caring about themselves. We need others to succeed. Deep relationships are built upon mutual respect.

P.S. Being late is a part of the culture in Latin America and the Pacific Rim countries. They get a pass on this topic, unless they're working outside of their primary country.

www.GregLobb.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7571512

Empty Nest? Choose To Make It A New Start

After your kids leave the nest, a lot of people start thinking that their nest is too big. While a large home in a great school district makes sense for people with a house full of teenagers, it doesn't make sense for one or two people living on their own. With the money an average retiree spends on house maintenance and utilities, he or she could probably buy several nice vacations a year.

Transitioning from a single family home to a condo, however, can seem like such a large change in lifestyle that many people don't even consider it. While it is a big adjustment, it is one that comes with a lot of advantages. By buying a condo, you'll gain a well-maintained pool, no yard work, beautiful views of the beach, and lower bills.

To make sure the move goes smoothly, try these tips:

1. Sell or give away possessions that you don't need anymore. There's no reason to hold onto lawnmowers, garden tools, or anything you currently use to take care of a pool. If you have a maintenance agreement that covers the interior of your condo, you might also want to get rid of any large tools.


2. Think about how you want to furnish new spaces that you didn't have in your old home. For example, think about the balcony. Take some time to look into outdoor furniture for this area. While these areas are more protected than a home patio or deck, they can still be exposed to sunlight and rain. Because of this, it makes sense to choose furniture that is designed for outdoor spaces. While you're shopping for furniture, think about replacing any large pieces in your current home with smaller ones.


3. Don't be afraid to get rid of a lot of stuff. Condo units rarely come with a lot of extra storage space. Sell or give away anything that you haven't used in at least a year. If you still have too much stuff after this purge, think about what you really need to live with. If there are items you just have to hold on to, ask about renting or buying a garage or storage space in your condo building.


4. Take time to think about décor. A condo that has too much clutter or uses a lot of dark colors can seem cramped and small. Keep large furniture and heavy decorations away from your windows and glass doors in order to let the sunlight and beautiful views in.

Finally, remember that moving to a new condo can be a major lifestyle change, but many new condo owners are surprised at how much their daily lives stay the same. Make sure to hold on to the things you love, but use the move as an opportunity to get rid of things you don't want or need.

www.GregLobb.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7556599

13 Sandia Heights Dr NE (Albuqueruqe, New Mexico)

Stunning custom home in Sandia Heights, at the base of the Sandia Mountains. This 4460 Square Foot home offers terrific views from every window. Huge master suite on the main level with sitting area, and two walk-in closets. Large family room that opens up to sunset views. Huge kitchen complete with large island & seating, double oven, separate breakfast nook, and a built in wine rack. Huge view decks and balconies. Private backyard with access and RV pad.


13 Sandia Heights Dr NE
Albuquerque, NM 87122



Price: $750,000
MLS#: 754615
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 3
Sq Ft: 4,460
Garage Spaces: 3
Acres: .78

Click for More Info

Extras

2+ Living Areas, Intercom, Alarm System, Kitchen Island, Bar In Kitchen, MB Dbl Sink, Breakfast Nook, MB Jetted Tub, Pantry, Raised Ceiling, Separate Shower, Dressing Area, Skylights(s), Smoke Alarm(s), Walk-In Closet(s), Back Yard Access, Patio Covered, Balcony, Patio Op

10 Things That Will Make You Stronger in Midlife

Entering midlife can make you feel more vulnerable than you've ever felt and there is mounting scientific evidence that the lifestyle decisions you make in midlife can dramatically impact your health in your senior years. Here are some things that you can do to get on the right track.

1. Educate yourself about exercise and diet.
Crack a book or two to get a glimpse of what you're going to need to do to improve. The power of exercise and diet cannot be overstated. It is your responsibility to figure out what you need to know. When I am approached by the average, middle-aged novice in the gym, I can't help but sense the expectation that I should be able to explain everything that person needs to know in a short 2 - 5 minute talk. That is optimistic at best. It takes years to build a strong, healthy body and it can take a long time to explain how to do it. Start educating yourself as soon as possible and use multiple sources. The fitness industry is ripe with disinformation designed to separate you from your money. Don't believe everything you read, but read it nonetheless.

2. Build a working relationship with your doctor.
Most of us have a love / hate relationship with our doctors; we love to hate them. To make it through midlife and beyond, you will need help from people in the medical fields from time to time. One of the people you need to get to know is a competent doctor who you trust with your life. You need to have a working relationship with this doctor. That means he/she is someone with whom you can work to get to the bottom of your health issues. Liking each other is secondary to this.

3. Exercise with weights.
The effects of resistance training on older adults has been well documented. If you want to prevent major muscle atrophy and lower bone density in your senior years, it's time to start pushing some weight. You NEED to get clearance from your doctor before starting any exercise program and you NEED to educate yourself (#1 and #2). Most people underestimate how easy it is to get hurt doing weight lifting without proper training. Unfortunately, many of the trainers in commercial gyms are barely more than salespeople with a perfunctory understanding of weight training. The fact is that learning basic, compound movements with weights and doing these movements three times per week is the equivalent of the fountain of youth. You must find a way to do this.

4. Do some cardio.
Cardio work is second in importance to resistance training for midlifers, but it is still important. Adding 15 to 20 minutes of low impact cardio at the end of your workout can do wonders for your heart and help reduce body fat. Remember to use the cardio formula to find your target heart rate. 220 - your age = max heart rate. Target heart rate = max heart rate X 0.65. You can go higher than the target but stay under your max. That's why it's called MAX heart rate.

5. Stretch.
Stretching and mobility work can help keep you moving like a well oiled machine. If you are training two to three times per week, you are going to be sore. Make sure to take time after workouts to stretch and do mobility work on days off to increase blood flow and range of motion. Some of my associates even do light yoga workouts on their days away from lifting weights to stay limber and pain-free.

6. Eat right.
Controlling what you put in your mouth has to be one of the most difficult things you can do in midlife. Let's face it. You've probably been eating that way for decades and old habits are the hardest to break. Most of the fitness gurus recommend multiple meals every 3-4 hours with a good mix of macro-nutrients in each meal as the gold standard for a healthy diet. That simply means a little protein, carbohydrate, and fat in each meal. One of the recent changes has been the advent of organic food being better for us because of reduced exposure to chemicals. If you aren't eating right, you must change as soon as possible. If you can keep the good habits for at least six weeks, they will become permanent.

7. Supplement your diet with protein and creatine.
These two supplements have been around long enough and studied enough to safely state that they work. They can help you in the fight to keep muscle and functional strength. I don't recommend spending too much on supplements, but protein synthesis needs a hand as we age. Many diet texts state that at least 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day is a good thing for active, healthy people in midlife.

8. Get enough sleep and rest.
Sleep is one of the three things we need to get stronger. We must train, eat, and sleep in order to grow. If any of the three are lacking, we don't grow like we should. While it's natural to feel like we need less sleep as we age, I assure you that while engaged in resistance training you will need every bit of eight hours sleep per night. You should treat this just like diet. You've been doing the same sleeping ritual for decades, but now you need to get eight hours per night while training. Find a way to make it happen for six weeks and it will become habit.

9. Quit smoking.
This is arguably the hardest habit to break. As amazing as it sounds there are still people around who don't believe smoking cigarettes will kill you in an accelerated and painful way. While I understand addiction (I'm a former smoker), there are a lot more cessation methods around today than there were a few years back. But nothing will work until you really want to stop. In the end, it's all up to you.

10. Drink less.
All things in moderation and a wise man knows his vices. There are some studies pointing to the health benefits of wine in moderation. Many health gurus say we shouldn't drink at all. I think we should weigh the consequences of our actions against the quality of our lives... and then have the glass of wine anyway.

In closing, this list is not exhaustive, but it contains the "Big Bang for the Buck" items that could make your golden years a lot better. Remember that one of the things everyone wants late in life is the ability to get around on their own or at least to be able to get up on their own. Make these changes and fight to remain mobile.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7536884

www.GregLobb.com

Interacting With Prospects and Clients: Clues for Making Long-Term Connections

Have you ever been out at business function where you didn't know anyone? Think back to how you acted. Did you hang in a corner like a bat hoping no one would notice you or did you target the individuals or groups who seemed to be the most like you and strike up a conversation?

The latter is what most of us do in the course of our day-to-day lives. We find others within our comfort zones and communicate with them by unconsciously understanding the way they speak and respond in order to gauge how to act accordingly.

In the business of law, we are constantly being presented with opportunities by new prospects and existing clients; however, sometimes we fail to connect interpersonally, so they move on to others with whom they feel more at ease.

Understanding some basic fundamentals on how people interact will help you position yourself to be the one they choose to work with, both now and in the future.

Here's how:

Everyone has a unique way of interacting. Some people talk fast, some slow. Some populate their conversations with anecdotes while others like to hit the ground running in a no-nonsense effort to get the most done in as little time as possible. Some make decisions quickly while others need time to reflect.

It's your job to learn how to recognize and complement various interaction styles so that the person you are speaking with on the other side of the desk feels most at east with you and what you have to say.

Interaction styles

There are four basic interaction styles that have been widely studied based on observable behavior patterns. These interaction styles were first based on theories by psychologist, Carl Jung, one of the fathers of modern psychology in the early 1900s. In the 1960s, psychologist, David Merrill, elaborated on Jung's types calling them "Social Styles."

I will describe the four styles as prototypes. Of course, human nature is a continuum, so few will actually conform to a precise type, but they can be used as a practical guideline for dealing with people. Understanding and differentiating them is one step closer to communicating successfully and building trust and credibility with your prospects and clients.

The first interaction style is based on those who like to control the conversation and their environments. These are the hard hitting, fast talking, task and result-oriented folks. They are quick to make decisions and to get the job done. They are not interested in small talk. They want results and they want them now. They are formal and business-like. They look you square in the eye. It's your job to be able to quickly ascertain that these quick talking, no-nonsense individuals want to get down to business right away. Be frank, straight-to-the-point, and efficient with their time. Give them what they need and they will feel comfortable continuing a dialogue with you.

Then there are those who are expressive. They want to be heard and they want you to listen to them. They are also not concerned with the nitty-gritty details of what you can do for them and the steps that you are going to take to get it done. They are talkative, fast moving and concept-oriented.

Somewhere in their heads is a huge picture of what they want and they expect you to see it and grasp it quickly, or at least to pretend you do. Give these types an outlet for their ideas. Listen and support what they say. You may need to help hone their grandiose schemes to one or two ideas at a time. As far as they're concerned, Rome might not have been built in a day, but it was built nonetheless, and they designed an amazing villa made out of the finest marble as part of the finished product - because they envisioned it that way.

How about the cooperative types? They are friendly, amiable and warm. They tend to be on the quiet side and may seem vague at times. They give you lots of time and are conflict-averse. They easily agree with you but may later change their minds. These people need time to get to know you, and they don't like pressure. They are consensus builders and will never rock-the-boat for you within their organizations. Make sure you are prepared to act in the way that a cooperative type wants you to act. If not, you may both end up very frustrated.

Finally, there are the analytic types who are all ones and zeros. They are detail-oriented, thorough, fact-driven, bottom-liners. Everything about them from their thinking to their speech is methodical. They want to hear the hard core numbers about how your firm has helped others in the past, as well as the bottom-line regarding what you can offer them in the future. These analytical types are risk-averse and want no mistakes, because rest assured they will find them if you make them. You never want to rush these types. Give them time to reflect and give them the facts and proof they need to feel comfortable with you.
 
In summary, pay attention to your prospects' and clients' communications and behavioral clues. They will help you to better connect with them. Observe if they are speaking fast or slow, leaning forward or sitting casually back in their chairs, looking more like they are on vacation than at a business meeting, hopping from one topic to another or staying linear. Understanding that there are different interaction styles and teaching yourself how to respond accordingly to them will not only give you a better shot at their business but allow you to continue to develop relationships with them for long-term success.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7528560

1201 Parsons St NE (Albuquerque, New Mexico)

Incredible home in the FOOTHILLS offering stunning City & Mountain views!! This home offers a beautifully updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, gorgeous granite counter tops and tile flooring. Large living room with wood beamed ceiling, beautiful flooring wood burning fireplace. Perfectly located in a private neighborhood close to the Open Space Preserve. Step out back to the HUGE view deck and large backyard with access. Remodeled master bath. Large backyard. 360 sqft sunroom.



1201 Parsons St NE
Albuquerque, NM 87112


Price: $289,000
MLS#: 751147
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 3 Full
Sq Ft: 1,882
Garage Spaces: 2
Click for More Details

Extras

Bar In Kitchen, Beam Ceiling, Cable TV, MB Shower Only, Pantry, Smoke Alarm(s), Formal DR, Patio Combination, Back Yard Access, Deck, Rock, Wall Privacy, Walled Backyard

www.GregLobb.com

Tips to Selling Your Car Fast

Instead of talking about selling Real Estate, today we are going to talk about selling a car.

If you have a car you want to dispose of; you can always succeed in selling it as fast as possible. All you need is to discover the right steps to take. Whether the vehicle is still new or old, you can always sell it at any time. You can still make enough cash from the sale. Here are some tips to help you.


• Get the current value of the vehicle

To sell your car very fast, you need to get its current value. There are factors that determine the value of a vehicle. The age, brand, mileage, physical condition, engine life and other factors are usually considered. You can check the current value of your car online. There are several websites that can help you in that regard. All you need is to key in the required details that will be demanded. At the end, you'll be given a good estimate. You can then go ahead to fix the selling price for the vehicle.

• Put the Car in order

To sell your car fast, you have to put it in order. You've got to check the engine life, the body, the seats and every other part. You have to carry out necessary repairs especially if you hope to make huge money from the sales. You can clean up the windows, the interior section, and the trunk. If possible, you can change the engine oil and top up all the necessary fluids. You can equally get the tires in good shape. In most cases, it's easier to attract prospective buyers when the vehicle is in good condition.

• Get the papers ready

The vehicle papers and documents must be ready if you really want to sell it fast. Your prospective buyer will demand for them. If the papers have expired, you still need to present them. You can also update the most vital documents before the sale.

• Engage a reliable car dealership

To sell your car very fast, you've got to engage a reliable car dealership. There are many firms that deal on vehicles out there. Many of them buy used cars. Some of them also buy junk or old vehicles. You can always make proper inquiries about them online.

Finally, you've got to advertise your vehicle if you really want to sell it very fast. You can take snap shots of the car and place them on several auction websites. You can equally advertise it through several social network websites.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7536460

www.GregLobb.com

An Open Bar - 6 Tips For Making A Bar In Your Home

If you've been scolded far too often for coming home late from the bar, then maybe it's time you brought the bar to your home. You'll never need to buy $12 cocktails, take a taxi or bus home every night and arrive home late. It's a wise investment - one that all your friends will envy. A warning, however: you might need to hire a bouncer once your friends start to overstay their welcome.

So what's first?
Meticulous planning will be your first step. If your home doesn't already have a bar space, you'll need to find the space for it. You'll also need to decide on the layout, and determine the furnishing and refrigeration. Make a floor plan using chalk or string and map out where the actual bar will be making sure it has access to a power socket and to a water source. If there's no tap or drain nearby, you'll have to make plans to install one. If you're building your bar from scratch, think of the materials you'll need.

Design - British tavern or modern night club?
You'll have to determine the style of the bar, preferably before you start building it. What kind of stools will it have, will it have a television mounted on a wall, or a pool or poker table for entertainment? Will it be designed for a drink over light conversation or as an entertainment room with loud music and dancing? Make sure you know what you want your bar to look like before you start building. If you're having a little trouble with the design aspect, take a trip to local bars and see how they can inspire you.

DIY or hire a contractor?
You'll have to decide whether you believe in yourself sufficiently enough to trust that you won't screw up and quit half way through or whether you'd rather let someone else, a professional, take responsibility for it. The contractor is highly recommended, as you'll get a professional job who'll handle electric wiring, plumbing, carpentry and best of all, clean up. You want to trust a professional when it comes to renovating your home. Remember to purchase everything you'll need before hiring someone or building it yourself. These things might include refrigeration and sinks.

Furnishing and accessorising!
The fun part: the part where you buy stools, pool tables, coffee tables, couches, chandeliers, perhaps a television and a radio with nice speakers. Remember to get cocktail mixers for when making your fabulous martinis. Also remember that you'll need glassware. If you can, get specialised glasses for each type of alcohol you plan on serving. A pint glass for beer, wine glasses, tall Collins glasses for cocktails, shot glasses and old fashioned glasses for whiskey. Make it feel like a genuine bar accustomed to your style. Maybe a disco ball is in order.

Stock up on alcohol
Now that the design and mood of your bar is established, you'll have to decide on what you'll want to serve. You should consider investing in draft beer and perhaps wine from the tap. This would put the cherry on top of an excellent home bar. Go out and splurge some money on mixers, vodka, single malt whiskey, vermouth, gin and olives.
 
Party!
Now it's time to enjoy your home bar to the maximum possible extent. Christen it by hosting a party at your house or inviting a few friends over. You'll become everyone's best friend and your home will be whispered as the best place for a drink, for better or worse. Don't let your guests drink too much, or they'll be staying the night, every night.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7527788