Revisiting Resolutions: 4 mid-year resolutions to enhance "Brand YOU"

In 2010, I, like many of you made New Year’s resolutions. Often times, it’s really easy to lose track of those resolutions or shift your focus. So I decided it might be a good idea to write down my resolutions so I could reference them and keep on track.

In 2010, I wanted to be more patient and punctual. I also wanted to eat healthier, learn something new every day and exercise more consistently. Now it’s July and I’ve done a pretty good job with many of those goals. However, I’ve also added a few more goals to the list, and I wanted to share them with you. Maybe publishing it on the web will help me remain accountable and maybe they’ll inspire you to do the same.

1.) Give More than You take

We’re only here on this earth for a little while. While it’s important to strive for personal goals and autonomy, it’s equally important to give back. Giving feels good. There’s this internal elation you get that is invaluable. Not only that, the same way that a smile is contagious, giving to others is too. It’ll help make the world a better place. (Special thanks to Seth Godin for the inspiration)

2.) Take the lead

Ari Gold from the hit HBO series, Entourage is one of my heroes. His ambition, passion, assertiveness and sometimes cut-throat approach to his life is downright inspiring. Flaws and all, he’s a great leader. That’s something I want to strive for.

Bill Parcels, former head coach of the Dallas Cowboys once said, "Blame no one. Expect nothing. Do something." That’s a bit of advice I want to take with me the rest of this year.

3.) Trust your instincts

More often than not, that gut feeling you get about certain things is the right one. But there are also many blinders and outside influences that may distract you from trusting that feeling. Everyone doesn’t have great instincts about everything, but everyone has great instincts about something. Once you find out what that something is, you can use it to your advantage.

4.) Hone your skills as a Salesman

One of my professors this past year made the claim that there are two ways to make a lot of money in this world. Get really good at marketing or really good at selling. Obviously there are other ways, but the skills you learn as a salesperson will go a long way. You learn to deal with people, conquer objections, understand thought processes of customers and people and build relationships. Regardless of whether or not you want to go into sales as a profession, mastering the art can help you in virtually any career path you choose to take.

Thanks for listening.

How are you striving to be a better person and citizen in 2010?

Lebron's Leaving?: 4 Reasons Lebron Should've Stayed Home

At long last, Lebron James has decided to join forces in Miami with Dywane Wade and Chris Bosh. But was it the right move? Here’s why I think Lebron didn’t necessarily make the storybook move that some fans wanted him to, and why he might have been better off just staying home.

1.) It’s still Wade County

First and foremost, Lebron has always been about the legacy. From his self proclamation as “The Chosen One” to his 1-hr ESPN special to tell everyone where he wants to play. However, it’s still Wade County and he will always be in Wade’s city regardless of his accomplishments.

Secondly, it can be assumed the days of back to back MVP’s are gone with such a balanced trio of talent in South Beach. It’s Kevin Durant’s MVP to win this season. Although, we can throw the Black Mamba’s name back into the running as well.

2. Never-ending PR nightmare

Burning jerseys, nasty letters from owner Dan Gilbert and disappointed fans across the nation isn’t necessarily the best lasting image to leave your hometown team—especially in a city that’s experienced so much heartbreak in times past.

By leaving Cleveland after his less than stellar performance against the Celtics, it’s safe to make the analogy that Captain Lebron boarded the lifeboat on his own sinking ship. I’m not saying it wasn’t a better career move if he really just wants to win, but there were certainly better ways to go about parting ways and still keep the Lebron Brand in relatively good graces.

3.) Premature Championship talk

Contrary to popular belief, while the Miami Heat might be a pain in the ass on NBA 2k11 (Good thing I was already a Miami fan ^_^), they are still a 3-man roster who hasn’t had any time to gel—4-man if the Mike Miller signing has been confirmed.

That’s why they call them Championship “Teams”, not Championship “Trios”. There are still a host of teams to compete with Miami in the eastern conference. There’s Boston, Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, and a ticked off Cleveland who will still be relatively competitive. Oh, and the Lakers are still the champs.

Maybe in a year or so, a few more pieces and Pat Riley steering the reigns we can talk dynasty. Until then, Lebron, Wade and Bosh have to cope with the pressure of championship expectancy in Miami for years to come.

4. “We’re not your friend anymore”

It’s funny how quickly people will turn on you. In the amount of time it took Lebron to say, “Southbeach”, fans went from “We love you Lebron! Come play for [insert team]” to “%^@%# Lebron! I hope you never win a ring”.

Granted he did seemingly string every potential candidate along for weeks, and even years about the prospect of him playing for their team.

In the “Post Decision” NBA, the Miami Heat have become the team to beat, and hence the villain. Everybody will be out to “Beat the Heat”, and won’t be very nice about it.

A Step Back

In the midst of all this basketball drama, as people will rip or revere Lebron for his career decisions, I want to remind everyone of a couple things.

1. Lebron is still human being and nobody but Lebron understands the pressure he was under for the past several months. So be easy on the guy.
2. ATTN: This just in! Lebron has made his decision and life will go on as usual.

P.s. Winning can make people forget--really quickly.

Thanks for reading.

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