July 2005

Lance Armstrong Rides Off into the Sunset

Just like the perfect movie ending, Lance Armstrong set out to accomplish his goal of winning seven consecutive Tour de France races...and achieved his goal.

After overcoming cancer he became even more focused, determined, goal oriented and trained harder than anyone else. As a result he is considered the greatest cyclist of our time. Also, he has made us more aware of cancer and what we can do to help eradiate this terrible disease through his humanitarian efforts.

Want to acquire the skills of a champion? Read the following articles:

• Five Secrets to Creating a "Goal" Medal Life - Part One

• Five Secrets to Creating a "Goal" Medal Life - Part Two

My hat goes off to you Lance Armstrong. May your results be even more fruitful after cycling.

Happy National Get Out of the Doghouse Day!

Today is Happy National Get Out of the Doghouse Day! Are you in someone's doghouse? Is someone in your doghouse?

Being in the doghouse or keeping someone in the doghouse leads to the following:

• Added stress and anxiety to your life which leads to illness and disease

• Lost concentration and focus

• Lost of career and life opportunities

Make the effort to get out of the doghouse. Take the first steps to:

1. Talk it out

2. Apologize, if needed

3. End with a promise for improvement

If you put someone in the doghouse, ask these questions:

• Is it worth all the physical and mental energy to keep this person(s) in the doghouse?

• What am I getting by keeping this person in the doghouse?

• Is my pride getting in the way of reconciling our relationship?

• What's the big picture compared to why this person is in the doghouse?

Remember, as a good friend recently told me, life is way too short to let disagreements get in the way of good relationships.

Take the steps to get out of the doghouse or let someone out of the doghouse!

Click here to read additional information on how to empower yourself or others.

Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela!

In a world that looks to solve its problems through force, your power came from peaceful resolution, determination, and a belief in change for the better. We need more "leaders" like you.

Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela!

May you have more birthdays.

Happy 4th of July (Independence Day)!

Let's take time to appreciate and say thank you for the ultimate sacrifice our soldiers are making across the world so that we can enjoy this special day. Whether our soldiers are on humanitarian missions after the Tsunami or fighting a war in the Middle East, take time to say "thank you."

Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the Navy Seals who lost their lives last week in Afghanistan when their helicopter went down in the mountains on a rescue mission. We are especially touched by this incident because our friend lost her husband (they were married less than one year) in the incident. She was to move into her new home in Virginia Beach this month and have it ready when he returned home. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her, their families, and friends.

So when you go see a movie blockbuster, enjoy the delicious BBQ, or see the fireworks with friends and family, take time to appreciate the soldiers who are making your Independence Day safe, happy, and enjoyable.