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Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Cloud Computing : The New Buzz Word in IT !!




Cloud Computing

With Cloud Computing, users have been able to access data, share expertise and high-end infrastructure from around the world, and vice-versa. The resources are shared through a public platform like the internet. Several companies like Amazon, IBM, Microsoft, etc have invested heavily as they reach out to users.

 Cloud Computing companies have customers of three kinds -

Infrastructure-as-a-service : 
Option of renting and utilizing computing power and storage capacity of vendor's quality. 

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) : 
Vendors license particular services to subscribers on-demand and once the contract expires, the services are disabled. 

Platform-as-a-Service : 
Here a developer is given the opportunity to utilize various web-tools to build and host applications. 


The Cloud (other computers in the network) does have its pros and cons in this formative stage. Its advantages include,

  • Better performance by PCs in the cloud network, as fewer processing will be loading in each individual PC, the rest on the Cloud. 
  • No more spending on computer upgrades, instead services of another high-power PC can be made use of. 
  • Lesser hardware and software required, so costs of maintenance are tremendously lowered. 
  • Permanence of data, as all information stays in the cloud, even if you experience a hard-disk crash. 
  • Sync with experts worldwide on multiple projects and avail optimum results through the Cloud. 
  • Work from any PC and on the move, with the availability of internet access. 


Cloud Computing also has some drawbacks like,

  • The over-dependence on the providers. 
  • The reliability of the vendors. 
  • Protection laws in different countries vary. For eg, according to EU data protection regulation, personal information cannot be transferred outside the European Economic Area. 
  • Threat of unauthorized access to confidential data. 
  • Requires internet throughout and near-impossible to work with dial-up connections. 


The concept isn't entirely new and is evolving even today. In the recent past, several variations have been introduced through 'Grid' and 'Utility Computing'.

- Grid Computing is a virtual super-computer formed by a cluster of computers in concert, each performing complex tasks.

- Utility Computing is a format in which subscribers are charged based on their usage, similar to the way in electricity is charged.


Source : Resonance IT


Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Tips to Improve Self Confidence - Part 2


Tips to Improve Self Confidence !



6) Don't be afraid to push yourself a bit - a little bit of pressure can actually show just how good you are! 


7) You can try taking a martial arts or fitness class/course (or both). This will help build confidence and strength. Invest in some new clothing and donate some of your old clothing to send a message to yourself that you both look sharp and feel sharp. 


8) Try to make yourself talk positively at all times. When you hear yourself saying you can't do something, stop and say you can. Unless you try, you will never know whether you are able to or not. 

9) Don't get wrapped up in your mistakes and dwell on bad points; they can contrast your good points or even give you something to improve. There's no feeling like being good at something you were really bad at. 


10) Don't confuse what you have with who you are. People degrade their self worth when comparing possessions. 


11) Surround yourself with nurturing friends, not overly critical individuals who make you feel inadequate or insecure. This could do great harm and damage to your self confidence.


Always remember "There is hair line crack between success and failure" Be sure to push yourself a bit, who knows that bit may lead you to success


Source : Junaid Tahir 


Concluded



Monday, June 27, 2011

Tips to Improve Self Confidence - Part 1




Tips to Improve Self Confidence


 Here are some quick tips to improve your Self Confidence. If we are committed to have a healthy self confidence there are many things you can do every day to boost your self confidence, each small steps that will help you to reach your goal. The good news is that self-esteem is not fixed and can be improved, try some of the steps below to boost your confidence and self-esteem. 


1) Identify your successes. 

Everyone is good at something, so discover the things at which you excel, then focus on your talents. Give yourself permission to take pride in them. Give yourself credit for your successes. Inferiority is a state of mind in which you've declared yourself a victim. Do not allow yourself to be victimized. 


2) Look in the mirror and smile. 

Studies surrounding what's called the "facial feedback theory" suggest that the expressions on your face can actually encourage your brain to register certain emotions. So by looking in the mirror and smiling every day, you might feel happier with yourself and more confident in the long run. 


3) Exercise and eat healthy. 

Exercise raises adrenaline and makes one feel happier and healthier. It is certainly an easy and effective way to boost your self-confidence. 


4) Turn feelings of envy or jealousy into a desire to achieve. 

Stop wanting what others have just because they have it; seek things simply because you want them, whether anybody else has them or not. 


5) Write Down Things..

When you're feeling superbly insecure, write down a list of things that are good about you. Then read the list back. You'd be surprised at what you can come up with. 


To Be Continued....



Friday, June 24, 2011

Tips on how to deal with betrayal !!


Women and men in relationships are always afraid of being betrayed or cheated on, and while you may wish that this does not happen you. What if it foes? Here's your guide to coping with betrayal.

Tips that can teach you to survive :

REFLECT :
To get closure and to help you to move on, take time to reflect and to understand what went wrong. Deal with issues that led to betrayal and avoid blaming yourself for what went wrong.

LET GO :
Cry if that helps you come to terms with the pain and grief, but whatever you do, don't let negative emotions trap you, learn to let go.

RESPECT YOURSELF :
Avoid washing dirty line in public. Try and keep your integrity no matter what.

FORGIVE AND MOVE ON :
Betrayal is part of life, take your time to accept it, and make an effort to forgive the person who has hurt you and try to make a fresh start.

BUILD YOUR SELF CONFIDENCE :
Look positive ways to rebuild your personality, self confidence and esteem. Spend time in the company of loved ones who will be supportive and can help you get through this emotionally disturbing ordeal.

STOP LIVING IN THE PAST :
Life does not end with one relationship, take courage and don't close yourself to the possibility of a new relationship. Take it one day at a time, and acknowledge the progress you make.


Source : TOI



Thursday, June 23, 2011

Ten Interesting facts about Jeans - Part 2


Ten Interesting facts about Jeans



6. Skinny Jeans – These look best on slender women with long legs. Because of their clingy nature, they accentuate the hips and bottom. Boot-CUT Jeans – These are tight till the knee and then flare out slightly till the hem. The wider hem takes the attention away from a larger waist, hips and things. Low-Rise Jean – Also Called low riders’, these sit just below your hips. If you want to flaunt your flat stomach, these are the jeans or you. Boyfriend Jeans – These are perfect for women who are rectangular in shape. The loose leg, Slouchy waist and large pockets are flattering on healthier bodies. Capris – These jeans end at the mid-calf or just below the calf, and are very popular among women of all age groups. They are usually meant to be worn in the summer.

7. Tips For Buying Good Fitting Jeans – Avoid focusing on just size. You need to pay attention to the fit too.
- Don’t Choose jeans that are too bulky or baggy.
- Make sure that back pockets don’t add bulk or make your bottom look too large because of any embroidered designs or embellishments.

8.  May 20 is considered to be the birthday of blue jeans.

9. In India, trousers made of denim which were worn by the sailors of Dhunga came to be known as dungarees.

10. Jeans are the world’s most sought after casual wear. Over 200 pairs of jeans can be made from a bale of cotton.


Concluded


Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Ten Interesting facts about Jeans - Part 1


10 interesting facts about Jeans


1. ‘Jeans’ were named after Genoese sailor from Italy because they wore clothes made of a blue fabric of cotton, and linen and wool blend. The word ‘denim’ came from the name of a French material that is found in a town called De Nimes in France.

2. Initially jeans were not made from Cotton. In the 18th century, as trade and cotton plantations boomed, cotton become the apt choice. Workers wore jeans because the material was very durable. It was usually dyed with indigo, which was taken from plantations in the Americas and India.

3. In 1853, German Hewish dry goods merchant Levi Strauss started selling blue jeans under the name ‘Levis’ in San Francisco. In 1891, Levi Strauss & Co’s patent for jeans with rivets went public and many companies began to adopt a similar concept.

4.  During the Second World War, jeans (called ‘overalls’ at that time) got introduced to the world by American Soldiers, who usually wore them when they were off-duty.

5. The late Hollywood actor James Dean popularised jeans when he starred in the movie, Rebel without a Cause. Thus, Jeans became a symbol of youth rebellion during the 1950s in America. Teens who wore Jeans, were banned from restaurant, Theatre and Schools.


To Be Continued....



Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Why Being Single in a Big City Is Desirable - Part 2



5. It works for your career

Remember that single friend of yours who got a promotion while you were left twiddling your thumbs? Well it could be because though you think you are giving your 100%, he/she has the time to work longer hours and flaunt better results. being single will definitely help your career.
You will save lot of money. Being in a relationship is an expensive hobby. being single will definitely ensure that your bank account does not bear the brunt of it. You will know what a great difference it makes, especially if you are a guy and feel obliged to hand out your credit card every time your girl steps out to shop.


6. You rule the Remote

You don't have to let your guy watch the endless matches (football, cricket, etc) and give up on your favorite programs. Similarly if you are guy then you tune into any sports channel all day long without having to feel guilt about it.


7. You don't have to justify your actions

'Where were you', 'When will you be back', 'Why did it take you so long'.... these and many more such questions take the fun out of any relationship. When you are single, you are not answerable to anyone and do exactly as you please.


Concluded


Monday, June 20, 2011

Why Being Single in a Big City Is Desirable - Part 1


Being Single in a Big City ( Happily unmarried ) is a Big Hit.....

If you are contemplating whether or not to be single, we bring to you some reasons why being on your own is desirable :

1. You Have Your Space 
In a big city, where space means not having someone step on your toes, being single can be great. Whether you want to make a mess of your house or dress up in the most unimaginable clothes, there's no one to reprimand you. You get to wear what you want, when you want. if that ins't bliss, what is ?

2. You can play the field
Whether its a guy or a girl, your partner is not likely to put up with you looking or 'appreciating' another chick or dude passing by. That's a liberty you have when you aren't attached. So if you don't want to lose your right to just look then being single will probably suit you a lot.

3. Don't have to indulge in relationships talk
'We need to talk', are not those the very words that every guy dreads to hear. Well when you aren't in a relationship you can most definitely save yourself from 'The Talk'. You often wonder what the need to have a talk is, but you have to put up with it to suit your girlfriend.

4. You don't ignore your friends
According to a recent survey, a person looses 10 percent of his/her friends every time they get into a relationship and by the time they realize that they want that friend back into their life, that friend has moved on. being single can be a boon to those who don;t want to see their friends list decreasing. 


To Be Continued....


Friday, June 17, 2011

Password Security - Part 2



The Do’s and Don'ts of creating passwords

Do :

•   Mix letters, numbers and symbols, and use case sensitivity (upper and lower case letters)
•   The longer the better. Use passwords that are longer than 6 characters.
•   Change your passwords at least every 60 days, cycling the numeric values up or down makes the new password easy to remember.
•   Try copying and pasting at least some of the characters in your password that way keyloggers won’t be able to track your keystrokes.

Don't :

•   Don’t use words or phrases or numbers that have personal significance. It is very easy for someone to guess or identify your personal details like date of birth.
•   Avoid writing your password down, use a reputable password manager to manage all your passwords.
•   Don’t use the same password for several logins, especially if they involve sensitive financial or other personal information.
•   Don’t tell anybody your password.
•   When registering on websites that ask for your email address, never use the same password as your email account.


Concluded



Thursday, June 16, 2011

Password Security - Part 1




Password Security

With most websites requiring you to create an account, do you find yourself in a bit of a pickle when it comes to inventing passwords? Many people use the same password for all their online accounts and often forget the password they came up with months ago. Hands up who doesn’t feel like banging your head against the wall trying to remember the password you created months ago?

Let’s face it - everyone has problems with creating and remembering secure passwords. That’s why we decided to help.

Tips on how to create and remember your passwords :

•   Use the first letters of a sentence that you will remember,e.g. "I have 3 cats: Fluffy, Furry and Shaggy" gives: Ih3c:FF&S, or “Bouncing tigers have every right to ice-cream” becomes: Bther2I-C.

•   Take the name of the website and then add your personal twist, like your height or your friend’s home address (e.g. “AmazonOceanRd6’ 2”). Avoid using your own contact details like your phone number or house number.

•   Remove the vowels from a word or phrase e.g. "I like eating pancakes” becomes: Ilktngpncks”.

•   Use a phrase from your favourite book and then add the page, paragraph or chapter number.


Continued .....



Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Top 10 Workout Tips - Part 2




Workout Tip 6. :   Know what to leave out of your training. 
Sometimes knowing what not to do is much more difficult than what to do. Leaving out unproductive exercises, or certain principles and techniques, may sometimes be what you need to improve your training. Leaving stuff that never works for you out of your workouts is a positive principle, not a negative one.

Workout Tip 7. :   See nutrition as part of your training, not something apart (and vice versa). 
Many will say, "nutrition is the most important aspect of bodybuilding" (some have said it's the least), or will assign percentage values to its importance. It's better to see nutrition & training as allied, married, inextricably together, partners which instead of twin masters, are two connecting pathways to help you arrive at your bodybuilding destination. Otherwise, you're like the center fielder in baseball who only cares about his hitting, not his fielding, or vice versa. Bodybuilding has two major components for participants: training and nutrition. Excel at both.

Workout Tip 8. :   Individualize your training. 
There are many good, general workouts to select which will be appropriate for any stage of your training. As good as these may be, the workouts that are always the best, the most result producing, are the ones which may begin as a template but which you eventually modify, adapt and change so they become even more suited to you. The best workouts are the ones which become your own.

Workout Tip 9. :   Learn and apply what you know and learn. 
Some people train without learning very much about what they are doing. In bodybuilding, you better have been born a virtuoso with enormous genetic potential if you are to have any success with that approach. Others learn quite a bit, yet never seem to apply or understand what to do or when they need to apply what they learn. You can always learn more; you can always learn to apply more of what you learn to your bodybuilding.

Workout Tip 10. :   Experiment and change. 
Some people never seem to develop a consistent way of working out. Others slavishly stick to the same routines, nutrition, even when they are getting little or no results. In the days before drugs, years ago, all training was essentially experimental. The pioneers of bodybuilding from the Muscle Beach days and before were basically inventing the sport, the training, nutrition and everything else as they went along. They were creative and they learned. Learn, try new things. Experiment with workouts, exercises, techniques, sets and reps-you may come up with something that uniquely benefits you. You may even come up with something new and creative that contributes to better bodybuilding for everyone.


Concluded



Monday, June 13, 2011

Top 10 Workout Tips - Part 1




Workout Tip 1.  :   Get on a good, general workout. 
There are plenty of good routines, basic or otherwise, which you can use to make progress. Most of these are neither deep secrets nor are highly innovative, but are those which have produced good results for many drug-free trainers when applied with reasonable effort. A routine doesn't have to be perfect, ideal, or the ultimate routine to work. It simply has to be good to be productive.

Workout Tip 2. :   Begin! Start if you haven't, start again if you've stopped. 
Reading, studying, thinking and planning about working out can be good, but sometimes, it's just procrastination in disguise. "After I straighten out my (fill in the blank with anything) in two (weeks, months, years), I'll start working out (again)." We've all gone through this; there are legitimate things in life that prevent working out, then there are excuses. You have to be your own judge of this. Sometimes, if you just begin (or return) to your workouts, other problems will take care of themselves and you'll figure out what you need in training as you go along.

Workout Tip 3. :   Know what you are training for (objectives, goals). 
Most times, it's better to have, at least eventually, some idea of why you're hitting the gym for these workouts. Goals, objectives, reasons-call them anything you like, but if, as an example, you know you want to gain ten pounds in six weeks, this energizes your training and gives you something to shoot for, keeps you focused, rather than the vague, "Gee, I guess I'll work out today." Strong desires and motivations help immensely in bodybuilding, or training for any purpose, and are far superior to drifting.

Workout Tip 4. :   Train consistently, regularly. 
Many will say when they hear or read this, "I already know that. Tell me something about training I don't know." Yet often these people don't train consistently enough or regularly enough, something which for all but the most gifted, is essential to progress. This consistent, regular approach to training sometimes requires several years to reach goals. Doing this, not just knowing this, is what's required.

Workout Tip 5. :   Train hard but wisely. 
Use your intelligence when you train. If you have nagging injuries or low energy, don't take a super-hard workout. Back off, go lighter, do less, or rest completely. Don't struggle with poundages which are beyond you to handle at your current strength level. Beware of following a professional's workout, or training so hard that you can't recover or, even worse, you injure yourself. Common sense is essential for longevity and success in bodybuilding, so use your head and train with appropriate effort, not a killing effort, for what you are trying to do.


To Be Continued .....



Friday, June 10, 2011

Keep Wrinkles At Bay - Part 2


Prevention of Wrinkles 

A well-balanced diet is a key component to a healthy, young-looking skin. Vitamins A, C, E and K promote radiant skin. Stress, regular late-nights, excessive exposure to harsh lights, all contribute to premature ageing and wrinkles. Try to adopt a healthy lifestyle. It is impossible to put a stop to signs of ageing. however taking good care of your skin go a long way in keeping signs of skin ageing at bay. Prevention should start early in life.


Tips to prevent wrinkles 


  • Never step out in the sun without adequate sun protection. Do not neglect neck and hands.
  • Always keep your skin well moisturised and always apply sun-screen 20 minutes before stepping out.
  • Drink lots of water and keep your skin well-hydrated from within.
  • Apply hydroxy acid-based creams, that encourage collagen production.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Try to maintain a diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients, specially Vitamin A, C, E and K.


Some Home Remedies to Deal with Wrinkles


  • Apply egg whites to the skin under your eyes for 10 minutes before rinsing off with water.
  • Empty the contents of three Vitamin E capsules into a small bowl. Add two tablespoons of yogurt, half tablespoon honey and half table-spoon lemon juice. Apply the mixture on the face. Leave for 10 minutes and rinse.
  • Apply castor oil to help reduce the formation of wrinkles.



Source : Body & Soul, TOI.




Thursday, June 9, 2011

Keep Wrinkles At Bay - Part 1



Wrinkles are one of the most unwelcome signs of ageing. Delicate creases and sagging is caused over time as the skin loses its elasticity, suppleness and smoothness. but though unavoidable completely, they can be prevented from making an early appearance.

A age of 40's is already too late and the treatment can only reduce this sign of ageing by 20 to 30 percent, but not completely cure them. The key lies is taking care of your skin right from your early 20s.

Causes of ageing :

The ageing of skin is dependant on two things. The genes and the external environmental factors. While genes are not under anyone's control, the signs of ageing can be kept under check of the external factors.

External factors :

Ultraviolet (UV) light : Over exposure to sun causes premature ageing in skin. UV radiation causes collagen to break down at a higher rate.

Pollutants : Pollutants in the air release free radicals, activating the metalloproteinases that break down collagen in the skin, causing wrinkles.

Nutrition : Deficiency of vitamins like Vitamin E and iron can reduce the elasticity and suppleness of skin making it prone to wrinkling.

Rapid weight loss : Losing the weight suddenly can cause wrinkles, as the volume of the fat cells are drastically reduced. This causes the skin to sag and crease.

Smoking : A recent survey showed that when compared a smoker's skin with that of a non-smoker of the same age, the smoker's skin looked 10 to 13 years older then it actually was. It also stimulates the formation of free radicals.


To Be Continued....



Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Bathroom Etiquettes !



  • First & foremost, Inculcate a sense of pride and concern for your surroundings
  • Men should lift the seat before using a toilet.
  • Should you dribble on the rim of the toilet bowl, please be kind enough to wipe it with a tissue.
  • Don't clog the toilet with with toilet paper or litter the bathroom with it either.
  • Wash basins must be used for washing hands and face only.
  • Make sure that water does not splash outside the sink. Should that happen, wipe it down.
  • Always flush after use and never clog the toilet with unmentionables.
  • Throw used towels and tissues in the bins provided for soiled items and not on the floor.
  • Don't spit on the floor. If you spit, please wash the stain away with plenty of water.
  • Never use the floor as a toilet.
  • Don't comb your hair over the sink and leave strands behind.
  • Don't blow your nose in the wash basin. use a tissue and use the throw bins.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Tips To Beat Internet Addiction !


YOU COULD BE AN INTERNET ADDICT IF YOU :

  • Experience a sense of well-being or euphoria while at the PC.
  • Surf the Web for more than two hours daily and yet crave more time.
  • Feel empty, depressed or irritable when not at the PC.
  • Want to stop surfing, but cannot.
  • Experience dry eyes, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraines, backaches, irregular appetite, sleep disturbances, and moodiness, irritability or restlessness when not online.


TIPS TO BEAT INTERNET ADDICTION :

  • Tweak your routine to avoid the computer.
  • Do something else when you feel the urge to be online.
  • Plan and regulate time when you spend online with a timer.
  • Increase social activities.
  • Join a support, therapy or personal skills group to face people more confidently.
  • Consider individual counselling or therapy.



  

Monday, June 6, 2011

Beat Those Monday Blues !



LEARN HOW TO GET A GREAT START ON THE WEEK :


Chart your weekend well
Make a to-do list, divide chores with your family and finish them by Saturday. Schedule fun and entertainment for Sundays.

Stay Upbeat
Keep something special for Monday night - a new restaurant you are dying to try or maybe just catching up on an old book. Psyche yourself into actually looking forward to Monday.

Get up early on Monday
A half-hour early start can help to sort things out, both in your head and otherwise. It will help ease out the tension.

Exercise time
Go for a walk to release those feel-good endorphins. Clean fresh air can do wonders for your mood. If you are not a morning walk person, you could put on some peppy music and de-stress.

Finish your pending work by Friday
Completing pending tasks by Friday, will ensure a calmer Monday morning.

Do not sleep in.
Weekends are great to catch up on sleep but this can play havoc with your internal clock. Try and sleep at normal time and then take a nap if needed.



Friday, June 3, 2011

Basic Essentials of Dinner Table Etiquette - Part 2



Dinner Table Etiquette - the 10 Don'ts!


  • NEVER start eating before a signal from the host to do so.
  • Forks should not be turned over unless being used for eating peas, sweetcorn kernels, rice or other similar foods. In which case, it should be transferred to the right hand. However, at a casual buffet, or barbecue it is quite acceptable to eat with just a fork.
  • It is not generally regarded as good dinner table etiquette to use one's bread for dipping into soups or mopping up sauces.
  • Loud eating noises such as slurping and burping are very impolite. The number one sin of dinner table etiquette!
  • Talking with one's mouth full. is not only unpleasant to watch, but could also lead to choking! Definitely not a good idea!
  • Don't stretch across the table crossing other guests to reach food, wine or condiments. Instead ask a guest sitting close to pass the item to you.
  • Good dinner table etiquette sometimes involves a degree of diplomacy when it comes to the host's choice of food and wine! Even if you feel that you can do better, don't ever offer your criticism. If you feel unable to pay any compliments, at least remain silent on the subject.
  • Picking teeth (unless toothpicks are provided) or licking fingers are very unattractive! The only exception to the latter is when eating meat or poultry on the bone (such as chicken legs or ribs). In which case, a finger bowl should be provided.
  • Drinking too much wine can be very embarrassing! Where a different wine is served with each course, it is quite acceptable to not finish each glass.
  • Don't forget to make polite conversation with those guests around you. Dinner parties are not just about the food, they are intended to be a sociable occasion!


Concluded





Thursday, June 2, 2011

Basic Essentials of Dinner Table Etiquette - Part 1



Here you will find tips on dinner table etiquette that will help you through any formal or semi formal lunch party or dinner party.


But first of all, a little general advice on..... 

Simple, Good Manners

Always respond to an invitation within a week of receiving it.

Dress according to the recommended (if any) dress code. NEVER attempt to "out dress" the hostess!

Be punctual - never more than 10 minutes late.

If you wish to bring a guest as your partner, good dinner table etiquette demands that you should always check with the host first. If you are the one hosting the party and a guest of yours arrives with an unexpected friend, be polite & courteous with them, and speak with your inconsiderate guest at another time!

It is considered polite to take along a small gift for your host and hostess. Flowers, chocolates or champagne are always appreciated.

Dinner Table Etiquette - the 10 Do's!
  • Once seated, unfold your napkin and use it for occasionally wiping your lips or fingers. At the end of dinner, leave the napkin tidily on the place setting.
  • It is good dinner table etiquette to serve the lady sitting to the right of the host first, then the other ladies in a clockwise direction, and lastly the gentlemen.
  • Hold the knife and fork with the handles in the palm of the hand, forefinger on top, and thumb underneath.
  • Whilst eating, you may if you wish rest the knife and fork on either side of the plate between mouthfuls. When you have finished eating, place them side by side in the center of the plate.
  • If the food presented to you is not to your liking, it is polite to at least make some attempt to eat a small amount of it. Or at the very least, cut it up a little, and move it around the plate!
  • It is quite acceptable to leave some food to one side of your plate if you feel as though you have eaten enough. On the other hand, don't attempt to leave your plate so clean that it looks as though you haven't eaten in days!
  • Desserts may be eaten with both a spoon and fork, or alternatively a fork alone if it is a cake or pastry style sweet.
  • Should a lady wish to be excused for the bathroom, it is polite for the gentlemen to stand up as she leaves the table, sit down again, and then stand once more when she returns.
  • Always make a point of thanking the host and hostess for their hospitality before leaving.
  • It is good dinner table etiquette to send a personal thank you note to the host and hostess shortly afterwards.



To Be Continued ....  Dinner Table Etiquette - the 10 Don'ts!





Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Simple Ways to Overcome Procrastination - Part 2




If you feel inner resistance and just can't get started try this three step method to be able to reduce that resistance, up your motivation and get going.

Step 1: Accept it.

When you feel resistance within towards doing something the natural instinct may be to try to push that feeling away. To brush it off. I have found that doing the opposite and just accepting that it is there can do wonders.
  
Tell yourself: "This is how I feel right now and I accept it".

This sounds counterintuitive and perhaps like you're giving up. However by accepting how you feel instead of resisting it you reduce the emotional energy that you are feeding into this problem. It then tends to just kinda lose speed like a car that runs out of fuel. And oftentimes it becomes so weak after while that it moves out of your inner focus and disappears.

This step may be all you need to reduce the negative feelings enough to be able to start taking action. If not, move on to the next step.

Step 2: List the positives.

After you have accepted how you feel list the positives of getting this thing done. Do it on paper, on your computer or just in your head.

When you don't feel like doing something it's very easy to get stuck and just focus on the negative aspects such as it being hard work or the risk of pain or failure.
So you need to change what you are focusing on to motivate yourself to take action. Making a list of positives like benefits and possible opportunities can be very effective for turning your focus around.

If you have problems getting started ask yourself questions that will empower you. Questions like:

- What is awesome about this situation?
- What is the hidden opportunity in this situation?

You can pretty much always find positives about anything. There are lessons to be learned about yourself and your world and opportunities to be found if you look at things the right way.

Step 3: Just do it.

You should now have reduced much of the resistance within and feel more motivated to start taking action and getting your thing done

It is at this point tempting to start thinking again. To reconsider and ponder. But I have found that if you do that then it easy to fall back into the same place where you began. You start to question doing this. Your focus starts to turn back to the negative aspects again.

So when I am at this point I usually just stop thinking and get my butt out of the chair. I get moving and I just do it.


Concluded