Friday, 17 October 2008
Success Story: Bob Williamson
Your situation can get very desperate and even seem utterly hopeless. But think about it, if a human being just like you and perhaps in an even worse situation can turn their lives around completely and become fantastic entrepreneurs, ask your self "Why cant I?" Today's focus is on Bob Williamson who went from heroin addict to super entrepreneur and owner of a $26M company. Don't let "heroin addict" just pass your mind; think about it. That homeless, smelly guy you'd rather not touch or even sit next to. That's a heroin addict. Someone who treats things like food and appearance, second to heroin. The "scum" of society. Exactly. Believe, persist and experiment. Enjoy Bob's Story
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Lessons from: Hustle & Flow
Craig Brewer's Hustle & Flow remains one of my favourite films to date. I absolutely love it! Watching the DVD extras gives even more substance to this film and this post. But beyond pimpin' and hip hop, there are some vital lessons to be learned from this film. Below is a selection of some scenes and corresponding interpretaions. Rent or Buy this DVD and watch it after reading this post; to help relate to the scenes and characters I make reference to.
1. DJay sees Skinny Black's CD and "coincidentally" runs into Keys in the 9-11 - DJay knew (as fact) that there was little to no difference between him and Skinny Black; regardless of Skinny selling 500,000 records. Having a successful person or business which you can relate to, as a reference point, is a great tool is achieving goals. Also, DJay runs into Keys shortly after see the Skinny Black CD. The debate of coincidence vs destiny will always rage on, but being constantly in the right mind frame is always beneficial in either regard. It always makes coincidence seem more like destiny.
2. DJay puts Skinny Black's Poster on his wall - Motivation must never be taken for granted. Refresh it without question. Treat it like a freebie-lover treats free air at a gas station - top up at every chance.
3. DJay goes to Key's house at night time with 2 "hos" - Action, action, action! Dreams and ideas are nothing without action! Just do it. Now! Later is no better than this moment!
4. DJay kicks Yevette and her kid out onto the streets in the middle of the night - Yevette was a negative entity in the mix; contributing nothing but and discouragement and ugliness. Although she had a young child and nowhere to go, DJay did not hesitate to do what he had to do. Tough call, but it had to be done. Take the same approach with likewise matters.
5. "It's hard out here for a pimp!" - The lyrics from one of his hit singles came in the middle of a regular day and at the time seemed like nothing spectacular. Stories from many great dreams and businesses show that the "great" idea never seems so spectacular at the time of occurrence. So don't expect confetti and multi coloured balloons to accompany any "great" ideas. It is more likely than not that there will occur silently without much fuss.
6. "...I've been hearing this beat in my head... like I cant be stopped" - DJay's "mode" is something that we don't all have. Although it is not a prerequisite for success, if you do have a "mode" protect it at all costs! If you can channel this mode into something tangible, the feeling of fulfilment will speak for itself. I truly believe that this is where the most original and spectacular things come from.
7. DJay and keys exchange punches - Disagreements and arguments amongst partners/ associates/ team members means nothing in the bigger picture. Get through and past it as quickly as possible. Do not let pride allow it to grow into more than it should be. Focus on getting back on track.
8. Shug brings the Lava Lamp - She may not have seemed very intelligent, useful or known much about what was going on, but heart was in the perfect place and in the end, she proved more of an asset than ever imagined. Don't be quick to write anything off. If it is not necessarily negative, the positivity may only need to be uncovered and the contribution may be below the surface.
9. Shelby gets Shug to sing/ DJay Pimps Nola to get the mic - Simple: Use what you have to get what you want and once again, do what you have to do.
10. "I'm here trying to squeeze a dollar out of a dime and I ain't even got a cent" - Sound familiar anyone? To me, most definitely! This is where only sheer belief can pull you through. Without belief, you will most surely fail. Also, don't let financial limitations control your dreams. My advice is always "...do everything else you can except make the payments...". When you believe, you will find a way.
11. DJay gives a Peace offering to his neighbour - Often, we let petty things interfere with the bigger picture. Always try and keep your interest "in the bigger picture" in mind. Once again people don't let your "feelings" or ego or other bits of nonsense keep you from achieving your goals. Do what you have to do!
12. "I ain't spitting s*** on s***!" - Keys asked DJay to compromise on his lyrics and later on, DJay asked Keys to compromise on the microphone. Both parties respectively desired the best and refused to settle for less, even though they were being asked by people on their team! This meant the finished product had component elements which were the best they could be. This is how a good team delivers a good product.
13. "Every man has the right to contribute a verse..." - Dont let anyone take this right away from you.
14. DJay put his mix on a cassette tape - Effectiveness. The music would have been "better" on a CD, but they used what they had and went with a cassette instead. The alternative? They could have not recorded and waited till they could afford to record on a CD, thus missing the window of opportunity with Skinny Black. Don't let the devil (who lives in the detail), prevent you from being effective. Focus on capturing the "essence".
15. DJay gets through to Skiny Black, then Skinny throws the tape in the toilet, before DJay gets arrested - Anyone would bet 100 bucks that Skinny was going to help DJay. Be careful with people, you can never be too sure. Then just after getting on his high, thinking he was in, DJay was instantly slammed to the ground seeing his mixtape in the toilet and double slammed shortly after, laying in a jail cell. The truth about every pursuit is that we can only do our best. And that's what our man did. But even when all seemed lost, look how things turned around eh?
16. Big 5.0 and Block C give DJay their mixtape/ "Everybody gotta have a dream..." - if you didn't understand this, you wouldn't still be reading this post
18. The Music - The soundtrack to the film is laced with goodies "Keep hustlin'... it ain't over for me" "I'm praying and hoping to God I don't slip" "This is the gift I was given, so I just live out my hustle" Uhh, goosebumps! For me this is motivation!
If you have observed anything from the film, do share your thoughts.
Keep hustlin, Dreamers! It ain't over for you!
1. DJay sees Skinny Black's CD and "coincidentally" runs into Keys in the 9-11 - DJay knew (as fact) that there was little to no difference between him and Skinny Black; regardless of Skinny selling 500,000 records. Having a successful person or business which you can relate to, as a reference point, is a great tool is achieving goals. Also, DJay runs into Keys shortly after see the Skinny Black CD. The debate of coincidence vs destiny will always rage on, but being constantly in the right mind frame is always beneficial in either regard. It always makes coincidence seem more like destiny.
2. DJay puts Skinny Black's Poster on his wall - Motivation must never be taken for granted. Refresh it without question. Treat it like a freebie-lover treats free air at a gas station - top up at every chance.
3. DJay goes to Key's house at night time with 2 "hos" - Action, action, action! Dreams and ideas are nothing without action! Just do it. Now! Later is no better than this moment!
4. DJay kicks Yevette and her kid out onto the streets in the middle of the night - Yevette was a negative entity in the mix; contributing nothing but and discouragement and ugliness. Although she had a young child and nowhere to go, DJay did not hesitate to do what he had to do. Tough call, but it had to be done. Take the same approach with likewise matters.
5. "It's hard out here for a pimp!" - The lyrics from one of his hit singles came in the middle of a regular day and at the time seemed like nothing spectacular. Stories from many great dreams and businesses show that the "great" idea never seems so spectacular at the time of occurrence. So don't expect confetti and multi coloured balloons to accompany any "great" ideas. It is more likely than not that there will occur silently without much fuss.
6. "...I've been hearing this beat in my head... like I cant be stopped" - DJay's "mode" is something that we don't all have. Although it is not a prerequisite for success, if you do have a "mode" protect it at all costs! If you can channel this mode into something tangible, the feeling of fulfilment will speak for itself. I truly believe that this is where the most original and spectacular things come from.
7. DJay and keys exchange punches - Disagreements and arguments amongst partners/ associates/ team members means nothing in the bigger picture. Get through and past it as quickly as possible. Do not let pride allow it to grow into more than it should be. Focus on getting back on track.
8. Shug brings the Lava Lamp - She may not have seemed very intelligent, useful or known much about what was going on, but heart was in the perfect place and in the end, she proved more of an asset than ever imagined. Don't be quick to write anything off. If it is not necessarily negative, the positivity may only need to be uncovered and the contribution may be below the surface.
9. Shelby gets Shug to sing/ DJay Pimps Nola to get the mic - Simple: Use what you have to get what you want and once again, do what you have to do.
10. "I'm here trying to squeeze a dollar out of a dime and I ain't even got a cent" - Sound familiar anyone? To me, most definitely! This is where only sheer belief can pull you through. Without belief, you will most surely fail. Also, don't let financial limitations control your dreams. My advice is always "...do everything else you can except make the payments...". When you believe, you will find a way.
11. DJay gives a Peace offering to his neighbour - Often, we let petty things interfere with the bigger picture. Always try and keep your interest "in the bigger picture" in mind. Once again people don't let your "feelings" or ego or other bits of nonsense keep you from achieving your goals. Do what you have to do!
12. "I ain't spitting s*** on s***!" - Keys asked DJay to compromise on his lyrics and later on, DJay asked Keys to compromise on the microphone. Both parties respectively desired the best and refused to settle for less, even though they were being asked by people on their team! This meant the finished product had component elements which were the best they could be. This is how a good team delivers a good product.
13. "Every man has the right to contribute a verse..." - Dont let anyone take this right away from you.
14. DJay put his mix on a cassette tape - Effectiveness. The music would have been "better" on a CD, but they used what they had and went with a cassette instead. The alternative? They could have not recorded and waited till they could afford to record on a CD, thus missing the window of opportunity with Skinny Black. Don't let the devil (who lives in the detail), prevent you from being effective. Focus on capturing the "essence".
15. DJay gets through to Skiny Black, then Skinny throws the tape in the toilet, before DJay gets arrested - Anyone would bet 100 bucks that Skinny was going to help DJay. Be careful with people, you can never be too sure. Then just after getting on his high, thinking he was in, DJay was instantly slammed to the ground seeing his mixtape in the toilet and double slammed shortly after, laying in a jail cell. The truth about every pursuit is that we can only do our best. And that's what our man did. But even when all seemed lost, look how things turned around eh?
16. Big 5.0 and Block C give DJay their mixtape/ "Everybody gotta have a dream..." - if you didn't understand this, you wouldn't still be reading this post
18. The Music - The soundtrack to the film is laced with goodies "Keep hustlin'... it ain't over for me" "I'm praying and hoping to God I don't slip" "This is the gift I was given, so I just live out my hustle" Uhh, goosebumps! For me this is motivation!
If you have observed anything from the film, do share your thoughts.
Keep hustlin, Dreamers! It ain't over for you!
Friday, 3 October 2008
Perception & Desire
I will admit to liking chocolate and other 'Cocoa Derivatives + Sugar' concoctions, made available by the "evil" people in the confectionery industry. I was eyeing up a pack of Caramel Hob Nobs the other day like a wolf would a sheep when this clash made manifest in my concious mind. let me explain.
At this point in my life, I "desire" (or want) to be at peak physical fitness. I have trained to varying capacities for years, so I am knowledgeable on training and nutrition for fitness. In other words, I am well aware of what I need to do and eat to achieve my goals. So back to the Caramel Hob Nobs pack. Now this empty calorie, high G.I. (glycemic index), hydrogenated fat packing enemy is on the opposite lane on this road to my desire of peak physical fitness. I know this as a fact and can explain why in full detail.
So if I "wanted" these Hob Nobs, what on earth is my justification? Wanting to go left and right at the same time? How can I make a logical explanation for this? It is so plain and simple to see that this clash is not a winning combo. To blame temptation is no excuse. Admit it, of course, but that is the only verb temptation should follow.
In achieving goals, one must understand what one wants, and what one must do to get it. It is as important to know what one must not do to get what one wants. Common sense is the only recommended tool for this as most times, it is plain and simple to see.
So bouncing on the topic of this post, your perception must be fully aligned with your desires. Period. If I want peak physical fitness, and i see Caramel Hob Nobs, I should perceive it as an enemy, an obstacle on route to my goals. If I want the Hob Nobs, then i must discuss with myself regarding how serious my goals are and why some petty, short lived pleasure is posing significant obstruction. I am only kidding myself.
Replace fitness with wealth, intelligence, some skill set, love, whatever you desire. Likewise substitute Hob Nobs with clothes, sleep, people, a night out, whatever you find yourself wanting which conflicts with your goals. Train the mind to see things in relation to your goals.
Bottomline: Align your outlook and perception with your wants and desires. Rob your enemies of their strength and crush your obstacles. Start now, tomorrow is no better than today!
At this point in my life, I "desire" (or want) to be at peak physical fitness. I have trained to varying capacities for years, so I am knowledgeable on training and nutrition for fitness. In other words, I am well aware of what I need to do and eat to achieve my goals. So back to the Caramel Hob Nobs pack. Now this empty calorie, high G.I. (glycemic index), hydrogenated fat packing enemy is on the opposite lane on this road to my desire of peak physical fitness. I know this as a fact and can explain why in full detail.
So if I "wanted" these Hob Nobs, what on earth is my justification? Wanting to go left and right at the same time? How can I make a logical explanation for this? It is so plain and simple to see that this clash is not a winning combo. To blame temptation is no excuse. Admit it, of course, but that is the only verb temptation should follow.
In achieving goals, one must understand what one wants, and what one must do to get it. It is as important to know what one must not do to get what one wants. Common sense is the only recommended tool for this as most times, it is plain and simple to see.
So bouncing on the topic of this post, your perception must be fully aligned with your desires. Period. If I want peak physical fitness, and i see Caramel Hob Nobs, I should perceive it as an enemy, an obstacle on route to my goals. If I want the Hob Nobs, then i must discuss with myself regarding how serious my goals are and why some petty, short lived pleasure is posing significant obstruction. I am only kidding myself.
Replace fitness with wealth, intelligence, some skill set, love, whatever you desire. Likewise substitute Hob Nobs with clothes, sleep, people, a night out, whatever you find yourself wanting which conflicts with your goals. Train the mind to see things in relation to your goals.
Bottomline: Align your outlook and perception with your wants and desires. Rob your enemies of their strength and crush your obstacles. Start now, tomorrow is no better than today!
Monday, 29 September 2008
The Origin Of The Idea
How does something go from being a thought to a good business or better still, an international, multi million [insert currency] value business?
Several factors inevitably come to play, but the most accessible side of everything is the start. How did the initial idea come about? In this blog post, I aim to break down some sources of good business ideas and shed some light on how anyone can come up with something special.
My selected categories are as follows.
1. Personal Need
a. Example - Netflix
b. The General Gist - Many a person have in their day to day lives realised there has been a lack of products/ services which cater to particular needs they may have. This thought is then followed by a brief or detailed search of the landscape and the void is either confirmed, or found to be catered to ineffectively. The entrepreneur then proceeds to provide the product/ service as needed. This route has one key distinct advantage, in that the honest, genuine need allows for a real, and natural understanding which can give valuable insight. On the flipside, the product or service may not always be needed (thus it’s lack of existence) or the demand may not be sufficient to prove financially viable.
c. In Application - Pay attention to your life and adapt your view. See things from the commercial side view – Tasty Snack : Food Retail, Flight to Maldives : Commercial Transportation, Haircut :Hair/ Beauty Service. Go through your day to day, with sharp focus observing the component elements of work, play, travel, love life, entertainment etc. If you have an idea, act on it!
2. Search For Demand
a. Example – Mccam Nestcam
b. The General Gist - In this case one explicitly “explores” existing and potential markets in a search for demand, with the aim of supplying a product or service to the selected market. This route has the added advantage of “filling” as opposed to “creating” demand. The former option is an easier stroll in the park. It may be advisable to look in markets which one has been a part of or understands to a certain degree. Note also that with the advancement of the internet, a small niche market can be highly profitable. As search engines allow users to seek and find the most specific of products/services; coupled with the low cost advertising opportunities provided by the same platforms (Google Adwords for instance), your supply meets demand and everyone is happy.
c. In Application - As there are infinite markets in existence, one key factor includes narrowing these down to a select few using some preselected criteria. This could be markets you have a genuine passion for or an understand to a certain degree. It can also just be a market you have great access to. Keep it simple, don’t go looking on Mars. Find your market, select your product, test it and if the results are good, go for it!
3. It Can Be Better
a. Example – Bannatyne Health Clubs and Spas
b. The General Gist - This classic group simply entails an analysis of a product/service, which produces the result “This can better...”. Quoting Duncan Bannatyne on the subject “...you don’t have to be the first to do something, so long as you can do it better”; This model has particular attractions in that you have a great sample template, which gives you a relative “head start”. The wheel works fine, don’t reinvent it. You will also know why you can do better (which was where you got the idea from in the first place), even before you decide to take this to a business level, which can automatically translate to a competitive advantage. There is also the classic move of posing as a potential customer to garner more information about the company.
c. The Application – Research before action. Make sure you really can do it better, and obviously have a route to market (copy the competition). As long as this is something you can really see yourself doing, there’s no need not to go for it.
4. Doers, Reapers
a. Example – Facebook
b. The General Gist - They say everyone will have a good business idea in their lifetimes. The difference is that entrepreneurs do something about it. More likely than not, you have participated in a conversation with someone pertaining some business idea. It is also very likely that you finished that conversation, on a high note, but that idea is currently gathering dust on the shelves of someone’s mind. Now, Picasso put it well – Good artists copy, Great artists steal. If they aren’t going to do it, by all means, help yourself! If guilt or other such emotional sentiments linger in your heart, bring the idea originators in on it, but only if they will add value to operations. The fact you “feel bad” is insufficient premise to have them mess things up. Legal documents - the likes of non-disclosure agreements, are particularly advised in this case for all parties interests. Of course, the lone cowboy option is always available. Bottomline - better stolen than wasted.
c. The Application – Make sure you get the right protection for your venture, as this can creep up on you when the entity has substantial value. Also, ensure it really is a good idea.
5. Inventions
a. Example – Viagra
b. The General Gist – Only the truly gifted need apply! Well, not really these days. In this class, we have the many failed ideas, but also the likes of those who create something (almost) absolutely novel and often very very special. These have the likes of technological, science or art elements embedded in their basic structure. In most cases, you will know if you have it in you or not. Other people that fall in this category include musicians and artists. There is also the entrepreneur who takes 2 (or 3 or 4) things, already in existence and puts them together (in whole or part) to create something “new”. The originality of these type of products/services often serves as a fantastic competitive advantage (for a while anyways).
c. In Application -It often takes great personal and mental strength to create something novel, as one needs to overcome varying obstacles to get to completion. As your opinion givers often do not have something tangible to go on, it is very likely that you will receive substantial amounts of negative feedback. Test marketing also doesn’t always produce substantial results as illustrated in the book, Blink, and unsatisfactory results may hold back a fantastic idea. Also, the product/ service can often get overwhelming so much so, that one loses clear focus of the commercial side which is as important as product development. The bottom line remains – you owe it to the world to try!
6. The "Accident"
a. Example – The Praire Tumbleweed Farm
b. The General Gist - I truly believe there is little to no technique decipherable from this method. The only thing I can say, is that in being productive and/or trying to better one’s self, good things happen!
c. In Application - Be productive. It makes good things happen. If you aren’t even on the bench, you aint gonna play ball!
Generally, a few things apply broadly to all the above
1. The numbers must add up – make sure your idea has potential positivity. No half hearted unrealistic financial plans here, so it properly.
2. The wheel is still fine – don’t reinvent the wheel, when you don’t need to. Use what exists and works. Copy or Steal!
3. Have a route to market – the best product/service is useless if it cant get to the market.
4. Test before you invest – try out your market before you throw funds and time into your product/service.
5. Without action, there is nothing – ideas are useless without action! Make like Nike and Just Do it! One of four things is the destiny of every idea. Take your pick!
a. I’m rich!,
b. I gave it my best and it just didn’t work,
c. I did it but not properly,
d. What if...
6. Self serve – Want to talk about developing a solid plan for an idea you have had? www.dfstudios.biz.
I hope this inspires some good ideas!
Several factors inevitably come to play, but the most accessible side of everything is the start. How did the initial idea come about? In this blog post, I aim to break down some sources of good business ideas and shed some light on how anyone can come up with something special.
My selected categories are as follows.
1. Personal Need
a. Example - Netflix
b. The General Gist - Many a person have in their day to day lives realised there has been a lack of products/ services which cater to particular needs they may have. This thought is then followed by a brief or detailed search of the landscape and the void is either confirmed, or found to be catered to ineffectively. The entrepreneur then proceeds to provide the product/ service as needed. This route has one key distinct advantage, in that the honest, genuine need allows for a real, and natural understanding which can give valuable insight. On the flipside, the product or service may not always be needed (thus it’s lack of existence) or the demand may not be sufficient to prove financially viable.
c. In Application - Pay attention to your life and adapt your view. See things from the commercial side view – Tasty Snack : Food Retail, Flight to Maldives : Commercial Transportation, Haircut :Hair/ Beauty Service. Go through your day to day, with sharp focus observing the component elements of work, play, travel, love life, entertainment etc. If you have an idea, act on it!
2. Search For Demand
a. Example – Mccam Nestcam
b. The General Gist - In this case one explicitly “explores” existing and potential markets in a search for demand, with the aim of supplying a product or service to the selected market. This route has the added advantage of “filling” as opposed to “creating” demand. The former option is an easier stroll in the park. It may be advisable to look in markets which one has been a part of or understands to a certain degree. Note also that with the advancement of the internet, a small niche market can be highly profitable. As search engines allow users to seek and find the most specific of products/services; coupled with the low cost advertising opportunities provided by the same platforms (Google Adwords for instance), your supply meets demand and everyone is happy.
c. In Application - As there are infinite markets in existence, one key factor includes narrowing these down to a select few using some preselected criteria. This could be markets you have a genuine passion for or an understand to a certain degree. It can also just be a market you have great access to. Keep it simple, don’t go looking on Mars. Find your market, select your product, test it and if the results are good, go for it!
3. It Can Be Better
a. Example – Bannatyne Health Clubs and Spas
b. The General Gist - This classic group simply entails an analysis of a product/service, which produces the result “This can better...”. Quoting Duncan Bannatyne on the subject “...you don’t have to be the first to do something, so long as you can do it better”; This model has particular attractions in that you have a great sample template, which gives you a relative “head start”. The wheel works fine, don’t reinvent it. You will also know why you can do better (which was where you got the idea from in the first place), even before you decide to take this to a business level, which can automatically translate to a competitive advantage. There is also the classic move of posing as a potential customer to garner more information about the company.
c. The Application – Research before action. Make sure you really can do it better, and obviously have a route to market (copy the competition). As long as this is something you can really see yourself doing, there’s no need not to go for it.
4. Doers, Reapers
a. Example – Facebook
b. The General Gist - They say everyone will have a good business idea in their lifetimes. The difference is that entrepreneurs do something about it. More likely than not, you have participated in a conversation with someone pertaining some business idea. It is also very likely that you finished that conversation, on a high note, but that idea is currently gathering dust on the shelves of someone’s mind. Now, Picasso put it well – Good artists copy, Great artists steal. If they aren’t going to do it, by all means, help yourself! If guilt or other such emotional sentiments linger in your heart, bring the idea originators in on it, but only if they will add value to operations. The fact you “feel bad” is insufficient premise to have them mess things up. Legal documents - the likes of non-disclosure agreements, are particularly advised in this case for all parties interests. Of course, the lone cowboy option is always available. Bottomline - better stolen than wasted.
c. The Application – Make sure you get the right protection for your venture, as this can creep up on you when the entity has substantial value. Also, ensure it really is a good idea.
5. Inventions
a. Example – Viagra
b. The General Gist – Only the truly gifted need apply! Well, not really these days. In this class, we have the many failed ideas, but also the likes of those who create something (almost) absolutely novel and often very very special. These have the likes of technological, science or art elements embedded in their basic structure. In most cases, you will know if you have it in you or not. Other people that fall in this category include musicians and artists. There is also the entrepreneur who takes 2 (or 3 or 4) things, already in existence and puts them together (in whole or part) to create something “new”. The originality of these type of products/services often serves as a fantastic competitive advantage (for a while anyways).
c. In Application -It often takes great personal and mental strength to create something novel, as one needs to overcome varying obstacles to get to completion. As your opinion givers often do not have something tangible to go on, it is very likely that you will receive substantial amounts of negative feedback. Test marketing also doesn’t always produce substantial results as illustrated in the book, Blink, and unsatisfactory results may hold back a fantastic idea. Also, the product/ service can often get overwhelming so much so, that one loses clear focus of the commercial side which is as important as product development. The bottom line remains – you owe it to the world to try!
6. The "Accident"
a. Example – The Praire Tumbleweed Farm
b. The General Gist - I truly believe there is little to no technique decipherable from this method. The only thing I can say, is that in being productive and/or trying to better one’s self, good things happen!
c. In Application - Be productive. It makes good things happen. If you aren’t even on the bench, you aint gonna play ball!
Generally, a few things apply broadly to all the above
1. The numbers must add up – make sure your idea has potential positivity. No half hearted unrealistic financial plans here, so it properly.
2. The wheel is still fine – don’t reinvent the wheel, when you don’t need to. Use what exists and works. Copy or Steal!
3. Have a route to market – the best product/service is useless if it cant get to the market.
4. Test before you invest – try out your market before you throw funds and time into your product/service.
5. Without action, there is nothing – ideas are useless without action! Make like Nike and Just Do it! One of four things is the destiny of every idea. Take your pick!
a. I’m rich!,
b. I gave it my best and it just didn’t work,
c. I did it but not properly,
d. What if...
6. Self serve – Want to talk about developing a solid plan for an idea you have had? www.dfstudios.biz.
I hope this inspires some good ideas!
Monday, 8 September 2008
The truth about Nigeria.
I was born and grew up in Nigeria, West Africa. I moved to England in 2001, mainly for educational purposes. It only came to my awareness about a week ago, that one of my best friends, whom I have known for several years, held the "TV view" of Nigeria. Dirt roads, 50+ people hanging out the back sides of trailers, naked kids running innocent and free etc, etc. While a bit of this doeas apply, Africa is a lot more than TV makes out. Yes there is poverty, and under “development", but places vary as widely as London and South Wales or New York and Nebraska.
Like everything and everywhere else in the world, Nigeria obviously has its perks, as well as downsides. On a personal note, some of the downsides have never sat well with me, thus I wouldn’t describe it as my ideal place to live. Even within that, that is a gross difference between living in the capital city Abuja and the metropolis Lagos. Nonetheless, seeing a gross misrepresentation of my home country does not leave me without emotion. Truth is truth and distorted versions of truth are unfair.
As we are all familiar with “rural” Nigeria, my focus fixes on urban Nigeria. My family base is in Abuja, which is an absolutely beautiful city. It is fantastically built and laid out. The roads are in excellent condition, and uncompromisingly generous. Some of the architecture just falls short of setting world standards, only because of moderate conservatism. There are nonetheless, some absolutely stunning and breathtaking constructions. The average home, thanks to the large area of land the country, is significantly larger than most homes here in the UK. It is clean, picturesque and safe. Yes safe. In the central areas of Abuja, you can drive down the fully lit up streets at 4 am, with little fear in your hearts. From flagship, world standard stores of the some of the world's best brands – Nokia, Apple, Nike to the best service providers and the corporate world - KPMG, M&C Saatchi, MTN (7th larget mobile network in the world), we have it all. In terms of lifestyle the fantastic Hilton hotel, fine sushi or sashimi, DVD rentals, specialised perfume stores, its all available. I haven't even touched Lagos which has the best of the west and then some – polo, private beaches, cinemas (movie release dates match the states), the works. My Lloyds TSB issued bank card is fully functional in any of the vastly available cash machines. the low cost of labour means hired help is available for everything from domestic requirements to or driving. Many parts of Nigeria would actually make fantastic tourist destinations, but i think the excessive negative press coupled with a blatant absence of care from the relevant powers and personnel, probably contributes to the mediocre size of the industry.
I love the Western world and it is responsible for a substantial degree of my mental liberation. Exposure to “the system” and free thinking alike, truly engrossing English culture (from Yorkshire to London) and as the many international friends and colleagues I have I have known and worked with pver the years has all been pivotal in defining the life I want to live. However, with Nigeria being on in the N11 list, I am currently planning my move back to Nigeria. For a long time, i feared “losing” something, by leaving the western world, but I have realised that any move wouldn’t have to be permanent and perhaps more important is attaining the financial freedom which grants true mobility. Besides, i still fancy a minimum 6 month stay in Tokyo.
I have not come across verified statistics for fraud and related crimes in the, but it would be somewhat prepostorous to claim Nigeria is not in the top 5. Likewise, corruption runs deep in the fabric of the nation, exagerrated by the wealth accrued by single individuals which brings more focus onto it. Yes, these are true, But it is not as if these things do not exist on varying levels in all nations. More institutionalised in some than others. I’m not saying we aint bad, but cause it is exceptional, it doesn’t mean the rest of world has the right to point fingers and play the saint.
While it would be overgenralised to speak the following term, I will say nonetheless, that Nigerians are good people.
Like everything and everywhere else in the world, Nigeria obviously has its perks, as well as downsides. On a personal note, some of the downsides have never sat well with me, thus I wouldn’t describe it as my ideal place to live. Even within that, that is a gross difference between living in the capital city Abuja and the metropolis Lagos. Nonetheless, seeing a gross misrepresentation of my home country does not leave me without emotion. Truth is truth and distorted versions of truth are unfair.
As we are all familiar with “rural” Nigeria, my focus fixes on urban Nigeria. My family base is in Abuja, which is an absolutely beautiful city. It is fantastically built and laid out. The roads are in excellent condition, and uncompromisingly generous. Some of the architecture just falls short of setting world standards, only because of moderate conservatism. There are nonetheless, some absolutely stunning and breathtaking constructions. The average home, thanks to the large area of land the country, is significantly larger than most homes here in the UK. It is clean, picturesque and safe. Yes safe. In the central areas of Abuja, you can drive down the fully lit up streets at 4 am, with little fear in your hearts. From flagship, world standard stores of the some of the world's best brands – Nokia, Apple, Nike to the best service providers and the corporate world - KPMG, M&C Saatchi, MTN (7th larget mobile network in the world), we have it all. In terms of lifestyle the fantastic Hilton hotel, fine sushi or sashimi, DVD rentals, specialised perfume stores, its all available. I haven't even touched Lagos which has the best of the west and then some – polo, private beaches, cinemas (movie release dates match the states), the works. My Lloyds TSB issued bank card is fully functional in any of the vastly available cash machines. the low cost of labour means hired help is available for everything from domestic requirements to or driving. Many parts of Nigeria would actually make fantastic tourist destinations, but i think the excessive negative press coupled with a blatant absence of care from the relevant powers and personnel, probably contributes to the mediocre size of the industry.
I love the Western world and it is responsible for a substantial degree of my mental liberation. Exposure to “the system” and free thinking alike, truly engrossing English culture (from Yorkshire to London) and as the many international friends and colleagues I have I have known and worked with pver the years has all been pivotal in defining the life I want to live. However, with Nigeria being on in the N11 list, I am currently planning my move back to Nigeria. For a long time, i feared “losing” something, by leaving the western world, but I have realised that any move wouldn’t have to be permanent and perhaps more important is attaining the financial freedom which grants true mobility. Besides, i still fancy a minimum 6 month stay in Tokyo.
I have not come across verified statistics for fraud and related crimes in the, but it would be somewhat prepostorous to claim Nigeria is not in the top 5. Likewise, corruption runs deep in the fabric of the nation, exagerrated by the wealth accrued by single individuals which brings more focus onto it. Yes, these are true, But it is not as if these things do not exist on varying levels in all nations. More institutionalised in some than others. I’m not saying we aint bad, but cause it is exceptional, it doesn’t mean the rest of world has the right to point fingers and play the saint.
While it would be overgenralised to speak the following term, I will say nonetheless, that Nigerians are good people.
Wednesday, 27 August 2008
So I turned 25 today...
Well yesterday now, nonetheless, a few things I noticed in reflection
1. The future doesn’t seem so desperate and haphazard anymore. Not that there is no efficiency and swift motion towards achieving my goals, the difference is just a realisation that one must enjoy the present moment, because as new age as this might sound, all we have is now. At 21, I unrealistically set a “goal” to be a millionaire at the age of 27. But learning over the years has taught me that achievement is much more than gross, unplanned, somewhat unnecessary financial acquisition.
2. I got 10 times as many birthday wishes as last year. Yes, Facebook.
3. What is you do is more important than how you do it.
4. You must know your fears before you can overcome them.
5. Failure is only when you stop trying.
6. There is nothing new understand the sun. Why reinvent the wheel?
7. Intrapersonal intelligence is more important than interpersonal intelligence
8. I am an introvert.
9. Excitement is a more adequate term as opposed to happiness. So the question is ‘What is your happiness?’. The first rule in life: protect your excitement.
10. I need God in my life.
11. There is no universal answer to what we individually seek. This is for 2 main reasons. We all seek different things and our mental mechanism is 100% unique so how can one size fit all?
With my current goals, I am very excited about this similar reflection next year. Happy Birthday Dini!
1. The future doesn’t seem so desperate and haphazard anymore. Not that there is no efficiency and swift motion towards achieving my goals, the difference is just a realisation that one must enjoy the present moment, because as new age as this might sound, all we have is now. At 21, I unrealistically set a “goal” to be a millionaire at the age of 27. But learning over the years has taught me that achievement is much more than gross, unplanned, somewhat unnecessary financial acquisition.
2. I got 10 times as many birthday wishes as last year. Yes, Facebook.
3. What is you do is more important than how you do it.
4. You must know your fears before you can overcome them.
5. Failure is only when you stop trying.
6. There is nothing new understand the sun. Why reinvent the wheel?
7. Intrapersonal intelligence is more important than interpersonal intelligence
8. I am an introvert.
9. Excitement is a more adequate term as opposed to happiness. So the question is ‘What is your happiness?’. The first rule in life: protect your excitement.
10. I need God in my life.
11. There is no universal answer to what we individually seek. This is for 2 main reasons. We all seek different things and our mental mechanism is 100% unique so how can one size fit all?
With my current goals, I am very excited about this similar reflection next year. Happy Birthday Dini!
Thursday, 21 August 2008
Rage against the System
"The opposite of courage is not cowardice, it's conformity"
Earl Nightingale
I find it very refreshing every time I come across something that reaffirms me that I am not crazy for choosing an “unusual” path. All around us (most of us), friends, family, media, and colleagues – are all begging for one thing even though they may never admit it. You guessed it, conformity. What are we being asked to conform to? The norm.
The norm is safe, it is familiar, it easily gets comfortable, it is popular. Norm is a logical, low risk path which has a high and almost guaranteed potential of mediocre return. On its other side, the norm never really did anything special. Norm never changed anything and was neither the revolution, nor the revolutionary. Norm has never been correlated with extraordinary or remarkable, but champions average with pride.
The bottomline is, some parts of one’s life must be subject to some norms . This does not however change the fact that norm is meant for mass and mass is never groundbreaking.
The way I see business is unlike most textbooks preach. My lack of a formal business background means I adopt a “meaning” based and somewhat simplistic view of business. This was initially questionable, but as time progresses, it is proving itself and validating it’s worth as the businesses I work with are enjoying success. Staying on the main point, a lot of terms and phrases exist in the business world, but their importance lies in their meanings and the applications. For example, the business norm says “amortization”, but the main focus should be on “paying a loan in installments”. Business norm says “break-even point”, but I’m happy saying “when revenue equals expenses”. My business knowledge originates from sources such as textbooks, business books, and somehwere in my head. The former sources have familiarised me with me with terminology, but I find that understanding the essence of the definitions is at the heart of breaking the mold.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not simply defining theses terms. What I am saying is that if one thinks in terms of the definitions without ever knowing the terms; while understanding the implications of the matter at hand, this is more than sufficient for outstanding performance. It is also a catalyst for your unique view and asking questions, which is one of the keys to birthing new concepts. In addition to the business example, similar comparisons can be made in other fields of expertise: in design – “geometric" vs “based on shapes”; in typology ”initial letter” vs “enlarged letter starting a paragraph” etc etc.
In summary, technicality is highly standardized and this can often limit creative approaches to fields. While it does suffice as a means of expression, one should not take it as the alpha and omega, but focus on the meanings and applications of terms. Before Einstein, there was no e=mc2; before Pareto, we weren’t bothered about his law; before Neil Strauss what did PUA mean? Before Tim Ferriss, muse didn’t have a business definition. If these guys stuck to conventional lexicon without understanding implications and questioning the rules, we would'nt have much to say about them.
It is at this moment I would like to raise my hat to those who dare go against the tide. The founders of systems, the authors of their own rule books (not criminals by any means!), the brave who can follow that light in their minds which they cant seem to explain properly, yet feel confident that on arrival, no explanation will be necessary. While you use the system as a reference point, you freely chart your own waters, looking to define your own reference point, which one day, may become the norm for others. You are not crazy! I know sometimes we all consider the norm, but let the bold and the chosen brush it aside with haste. Stay strong dreamer! Greatness was never the usual
Earl Nightingale
I find it very refreshing every time I come across something that reaffirms me that I am not crazy for choosing an “unusual” path. All around us (most of us), friends, family, media, and colleagues – are all begging for one thing even though they may never admit it. You guessed it, conformity. What are we being asked to conform to? The norm.
The norm is safe, it is familiar, it easily gets comfortable, it is popular. Norm is a logical, low risk path which has a high and almost guaranteed potential of mediocre return. On its other side, the norm never really did anything special. Norm never changed anything and was neither the revolution, nor the revolutionary. Norm has never been correlated with extraordinary or remarkable, but champions average with pride.
The bottomline is, some parts of one’s life must be subject to some norms . This does not however change the fact that norm is meant for mass and mass is never groundbreaking.
The way I see business is unlike most textbooks preach. My lack of a formal business background means I adopt a “meaning” based and somewhat simplistic view of business. This was initially questionable, but as time progresses, it is proving itself and validating it’s worth as the businesses I work with are enjoying success. Staying on the main point, a lot of terms and phrases exist in the business world, but their importance lies in their meanings and the applications. For example, the business norm says “amortization”, but the main focus should be on “paying a loan in installments”. Business norm says “break-even point”, but I’m happy saying “when revenue equals expenses”. My business knowledge originates from sources such as textbooks, business books, and somehwere in my head. The former sources have familiarised me with me with terminology, but I find that understanding the essence of the definitions is at the heart of breaking the mold.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not simply defining theses terms. What I am saying is that if one thinks in terms of the definitions without ever knowing the terms; while understanding the implications of the matter at hand, this is more than sufficient for outstanding performance. It is also a catalyst for your unique view and asking questions, which is one of the keys to birthing new concepts. In addition to the business example, similar comparisons can be made in other fields of expertise: in design – “geometric" vs “based on shapes”; in typology ”initial letter” vs “enlarged letter starting a paragraph” etc etc.
In summary, technicality is highly standardized and this can often limit creative approaches to fields. While it does suffice as a means of expression, one should not take it as the alpha and omega, but focus on the meanings and applications of terms. Before Einstein, there was no e=mc2; before Pareto, we weren’t bothered about his law; before Neil Strauss what did PUA mean? Before Tim Ferriss, muse didn’t have a business definition. If these guys stuck to conventional lexicon without understanding implications and questioning the rules, we would'nt have much to say about them.
It is at this moment I would like to raise my hat to those who dare go against the tide. The founders of systems, the authors of their own rule books (not criminals by any means!), the brave who can follow that light in their minds which they cant seem to explain properly, yet feel confident that on arrival, no explanation will be necessary. While you use the system as a reference point, you freely chart your own waters, looking to define your own reference point, which one day, may become the norm for others. You are not crazy! I know sometimes we all consider the norm, but let the bold and the chosen brush it aside with haste. Stay strong dreamer! Greatness was never the usual
Monday, 11 August 2008
Principles before Methods.
"As to methods, there may be a million and then some, but principles are few. The man who grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man who tries methods, ignoring principles is sure to have trouble"
Ralph Waldo Emerson
I absolutely love quotes. The way they can capture such essence and at times express things we can only feel. Pure simplicity. The above quote is very important to me in life and business. And it should be to you too. The truth is, the varying degree of importance will depend on personality type, but if you have not considered this (on a conscious or subconscious level), please do so now.
So what’s the big deal? Lets start with definitions. My chosen ones which best suit this case are as follows:
Method: A means or manner of procedure, especially a regular and systematic way of accomplishing something.
Principle: a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct.
Methods are often put on a pedestal with regards to goal accomplishment. Indeed, to accomplish any goal, one must employ methodology at some point, as most goals require consistent application of effort. But methods are limited as they cannot give insight into goals. There is no definite underlying correlation between methods and goals. It is far too subjective and open to infinite interpretation. This does not sound like a solid platform to me.
Methods exist to deliver efficiency. While one method can be perfected and performed with eyes closed, hands tied behind back, and ice cold water trickling down one’s spine; how is this ideal when tomorrow, a refined version of this method may emerge? Does one proceed to simple abandon the old method and begin refining the new one? Or does one stick with the old method, because of habit and ignore the potential benefits and improvement of the new method? Whatever the choice, what happens when an even newer method emerges? Rest assured, as long as man exists, newer methods to accomplish tasks will always emerge, the cycle will not end. Who can put an end to this madness?
Enter my man principles. Principles are the police that keep methods in check! Principles are directly tied to goals. In terms of hierarchy, goals come first, then principles and then methods. Examine the analogy:
A goal is a destination. A principle is a means of travel. A method is a vehicle.
Principles serve many purposes. Important here is the role of principles as a filterer of methods. For example, a principle to “keep everything simple” quickly eliminates numerous methods which entail complicated techniques and procedures. Likewise a principle to “always maintain the best work standards” abolishes methods which cut corners as well as quick fixes! I hope you are getting the picture. With solid principles, it is ok to refine and change methods, as long as they are allowed by your principles.
Some key points about principles
- Principles are based on your character and personality.
- They must be straightforward, and have only one possible interpretation
- They must be absolute
- They should be closely tied to your goals and following them should lead to accomplishment.
- It is ok to adopt principles of peers and role models as long as they align with your goals.
- If one maintains close friendship with someone whose principles vary significantly, one of the 2 things happens: they take on yours or you take on theirs.
- Thus, guard your principles.
- Write down your principles and read them often. Check that your methods and actions are in line with your principles.
- Sticking to your principles makes decisions much easier.
- You cannot have conflicting principles.
- Set principles for areas of your life: work, love life, fun, children, knowledge etc and try to limit it to a maximum 2 principles per area. Stick to 1 if possible.
Remember, define your principles and then select your methods.
Tuesday, 5 August 2008
My self-recommendation
Googling business development or business consulting or freelance strategy development (or any of the other creative names, which people in my field call themselves these days!) you will get a ton of returned results. These will range from free “impartial” services, to those meant only for the Fortune 500’s.
Often when I speak to clients, I have to let them understand why they should work with me. In other words “What makes DF Studios special?” How are my services different from everyone else out there?
Here are 8 reasons why
1. It’s personal – the DF Studios service has been described as “…hiring a best friend and business partner”. I do not offer any of that detached, I-know-more-than-you stuff. Just a good old fashioned one (with many resources) to one relationship. Most importantly, my interpersonal skills mean I am very good at understanding your situation. Your shoes are my size! Pitches, presentations etc, you will not walk alone.
2. More than just the business – While you need to know when you’ll break even, how you’ll enter the market place and how much you’ll sell your fantastic product and service for; a huge key to your success is YOU! Without the right attitude, state and strength of mind, as well as personal growth, your chances of success are slim. Understanding this and applying infectious positivity is something I’m sure your high street bank’s business service doesn’t really cater to.
3. Resources – With an excellent knowledge of web tools, resources and modern business principles which have changed the face of business dramatically in recent years, your business can be powered on an excellent, reliable platform. In addition, I have a network of professionals in most necessary fields, and this saves you time and money because together, we can avoid trial and error.
4. Value – Without a compromise on the quality of the service offered, the value of the DF Studios service is exceptional.
5. Less emotional “noise” – of course I care about your project and I want it to succeed as much as you do. Nonetheless, it is inevitable that you have higher emotional attachment to you idea/ business than I do. Like everything else, this has its pluses and minuses. One of the latter includes a lack of objective perspective which can affect crystal clear decision making. Using logic, intelligence and common sense as guideline, I will work with you closely around key decisions to ensure best results. I also say why don’t you focus on what you do best (which is having the idea and believing in it) while I do my thing and create you a platform to run your business on.
6. The bigger picture – coming in from “outside” allows me to see the bigger picture very quickly and going beyond that, we would work together to create a realistic practical step by step plan to get there
7. Ask past clients – I can say all I like, but perhaps a previous client would be more convincing than me? Feel free to speak to any of my previous clients.
8. Simplicity – Simplicity is fantastic. It is nice and tidy, easier to deal with. I like to keep things this way as much as possible and I present material in the most simplified form possible.
Have you been putting your idea off? Get in touch and lets discuss. What do you have to lose?
Often when I speak to clients, I have to let them understand why they should work with me. In other words “What makes DF Studios special?” How are my services different from everyone else out there?
Here are 8 reasons why
1. It’s personal – the DF Studios service has been described as “…hiring a best friend and business partner”. I do not offer any of that detached, I-know-more-than-you stuff. Just a good old fashioned one (with many resources) to one relationship. Most importantly, my interpersonal skills mean I am very good at understanding your situation. Your shoes are my size! Pitches, presentations etc, you will not walk alone.
2. More than just the business – While you need to know when you’ll break even, how you’ll enter the market place and how much you’ll sell your fantastic product and service for; a huge key to your success is YOU! Without the right attitude, state and strength of mind, as well as personal growth, your chances of success are slim. Understanding this and applying infectious positivity is something I’m sure your high street bank’s business service doesn’t really cater to.
3. Resources – With an excellent knowledge of web tools, resources and modern business principles which have changed the face of business dramatically in recent years, your business can be powered on an excellent, reliable platform. In addition, I have a network of professionals in most necessary fields, and this saves you time and money because together, we can avoid trial and error.
4. Value – Without a compromise on the quality of the service offered, the value of the DF Studios service is exceptional.
5. Less emotional “noise” – of course I care about your project and I want it to succeed as much as you do. Nonetheless, it is inevitable that you have higher emotional attachment to you idea/ business than I do. Like everything else, this has its pluses and minuses. One of the latter includes a lack of objective perspective which can affect crystal clear decision making. Using logic, intelligence and common sense as guideline, I will work with you closely around key decisions to ensure best results. I also say why don’t you focus on what you do best (which is having the idea and believing in it) while I do my thing and create you a platform to run your business on.
6. The bigger picture – coming in from “outside” allows me to see the bigger picture very quickly and going beyond that, we would work together to create a realistic practical step by step plan to get there
7. Ask past clients – I can say all I like, but perhaps a previous client would be more convincing than me? Feel free to speak to any of my previous clients.
8. Simplicity – Simplicity is fantastic. It is nice and tidy, easier to deal with. I like to keep things this way as much as possible and I present material in the most simplified form possible.
Have you been putting your idea off? Get in touch and lets discuss. What do you have to lose?
Wednesday, 21 May 2008
Hungry and Foolish
I very often find articles that give me goosebumps. This speech sums up the message of 2 previous posts. It was made about 3 years ago and is as relevant as if it was it just this morning. This is very special to me and I hope you enjoy. Nice looking Steve - http://news-service.stanford.edu/news/2005/june15/jobs-061505.html
Tuesday, 20 May 2008
Persistence is No 1.
Speak to many a successful entrepreneur, and they’ll tell you it takes a lot to succeed. However, most success stories are remembered from their “point of breakthrough” onwards. We selectively ignore all they had to go through to achieve, for whatever reason, as if that part of the story is of less significance. The law of averages will always do it’s thing, and of course it comes easy for some, call it fortune, call it destiny. Still the majority of world renowned successful entrepreneurs, sportsmen, leaders, athletes, entertainers and achievers had to overcome varying obstacles on their way to success. Going through the stories, from repeated failure in the case of Abraham Lincoln, to ill health as faced by Lance Armstrong; anyone who honestly believes in living their dreams one day must understand these journeys and feel due respect.
I always try to look at these difficulties with a pair of “present moment” goggles. We tend to view other people’s issues objectively, which is only natural, but try and capture this feeling for a moment, as it it was you: Your profession/ career is going great. The future looks bright and you’ve got big plans. Then, on a normal day (much like this one), you feel a funny pain (the likes of which you have probably felt before), you get examined and the doc says slams you with the mind numbing news of cancer in three vital body parts.
Now slow your thoughts for a minute.
Imagine that moment when you’re sat across from the doctor, looking into his eyes and your hear those words, and your mind has quickly worked out that this is not a joke. Where are your thoughts? How low would that moment feel? Most importantly, do you really think you have what it takes to resist all the urges to give way; and to stand and fight, knowing this is a battle you are as likely to lose as you are to win? Not only did Lance survive the extensive spread of cancerous tissues through his testicles, brain and lungs (talk about vital organs!), but he bounced back into the game and won 7 Tour de France titles. That my friends is sheer belief, determination and persistence.
There are numerous such stories, but most are as inspirational and present a hypothetical and bench mark challenge for all entrepreneurs. If you think you deserve the freedom, you best be prepared for your own customised 500 yards of prison sewage (Shawshank Redemption). And don’t forget the 19 year, rock hammer dig, prerequisite either.
My hyperactive mind is in constant analysis and I have pondered on the question for a while now - “if there one key thing to achieving your dreams, what is it?” Ladies and gents, while so many other factors are important and pivotal, I am convinced that persistence is No 1.
What is your view?
I always try to look at these difficulties with a pair of “present moment” goggles. We tend to view other people’s issues objectively, which is only natural, but try and capture this feeling for a moment, as it it was you: Your profession/ career is going great. The future looks bright and you’ve got big plans. Then, on a normal day (much like this one), you feel a funny pain (the likes of which you have probably felt before), you get examined and the doc says slams you with the mind numbing news of cancer in three vital body parts.
Now slow your thoughts for a minute.
Imagine that moment when you’re sat across from the doctor, looking into his eyes and your hear those words, and your mind has quickly worked out that this is not a joke. Where are your thoughts? How low would that moment feel? Most importantly, do you really think you have what it takes to resist all the urges to give way; and to stand and fight, knowing this is a battle you are as likely to lose as you are to win? Not only did Lance survive the extensive spread of cancerous tissues through his testicles, brain and lungs (talk about vital organs!), but he bounced back into the game and won 7 Tour de France titles. That my friends is sheer belief, determination and persistence.
There are numerous such stories, but most are as inspirational and present a hypothetical and bench mark challenge for all entrepreneurs. If you think you deserve the freedom, you best be prepared for your own customised 500 yards of prison sewage (Shawshank Redemption). And don’t forget the 19 year, rock hammer dig, prerequisite either.
My hyperactive mind is in constant analysis and I have pondered on the question for a while now - “if there one key thing to achieving your dreams, what is it?” Ladies and gents, while so many other factors are important and pivotal, I am convinced that persistence is No 1.
What is your view?
Thursday, 27 March 2008
Whats my Big Idea?
If you’ve ever thought of starting a business (but haven’t), it must be your birthday… cause this one’s specially for you!
I will always advice people to start their own businesses. The common resistance is usually founded on the statement ‘I can’t do it. I do not have “what” it takes’. While this is not the focus of this post, I must assert that that statement means absolutely nothing to me for 2 main reasons.
Firstly, you don’t need to be master of all. No accounting skills? Ever heard of freelance accountants? Pretty bad at writing? Copy writing is a profession. Whether you chose to collaborate, patronise a friend, hire, or outsource; all skills you would possibly need are available out there. Web 2.0. tools are also extremely handy.
The next thing is truly an underestimation of potential. Everyday, I realise how much more powerful the mind is than we realise and give it credit for. It can do anything we set it to, accomplish any task (obviously within logical reason, I don’t think there’s anything that would give you the ability to fly!). To prove this to yourself, set 3 goals which would not be “easily” accomplished e.g. running a certain distance (just above your comfort zone); reading, for example, 30 pages a day of a 180 page book (to finish it in under a week); memorizing and flawlessly reciting a relatively “long” script. Accomplish any set of such 3 tasks and reflect on the whole process. You will most certainly feel different about ability then.
Now it’s definitely not equal, but none the less just as potent. The differences in environment, experience, state of mind, available time, etc, will affect realisation, but the fact remains. You can do anything you set your mind to. You can learn Mandarin. You can memorize the entire script of The Devil Wears Prada. You can understand the principles of astrophysics.
The next phase is as just as important. What do you decide to set your mind to accomplish?
This brings me back nicely to my focus of this post :) Why and how you should start a business. This is one of my favourite quotes which always sparks uproar: "Business is Simple". I exchange a product or a service for more money than it cost me to acquire. The difference in figures is my profit. The more I exchange, the more profit I make and vice versa. This is not hard to understand. Yes there are all the other variables, but this is fundamentally the underlying principle of any business. Sometimes, the model may vary and you may get your profits from a third party for example - i.e. a blog which generates revenue from advertising; but still a very simple concept. So it’s not beyond any of us.
Another key thing missed out when people think of businesses is the type of business. Ideally your business should be based on or around your passion. This is fundamental because not only does is turn work into “doing your thing”, but your entire approach towards it cannot help but be positive and enjoyable. A lot of people doubt the ability to harness their passions in this fashion, but I promise you, it can be done a vast majority of times. The key thing is a detailed well defined plan and confirmation of the financial viability of that plan.
Lets take a random example - You love flowers, how can this work? First reflex would think open a flower shop, but then what is your competitive advantage there? How can you compete with Interflora or Flowers USA? How can you get enough customers to sustain a living? It probably won’t work, right? Wrong.
Back to the drawing board: so you love flowers. Loving them, you must appreciate their fragrances. How about studying flowers and their derivative fragrances? This knowledge opens you up to opportunities in the fragrance industry (perfumes, moisturizers, shower gels), gives you ample content to blog about to an attentive audience and more possibilities. Staying with your love for actual flowers, how about specialising as a wedding florist? Or even retailing flowers (yes, like earlier mentioned) but focusing on a niche of exotic, imported flowers, giving you a unique competitive edge. What about doing something extremely unique with the flowers (writing out the recipients name in special shaped vases)? Endless opportunities from the simple love of flowers
Now the key things to remember are
1. Have a clear and definite goal and a relatively realistic plan to attain that goal
2. Identify what gaps must filled to equip you with the weapons necessary for attaining this goal
3. Fill these gaps!
4. Attack you plan
5. Persist till your goal is attained.
Your love for you passion is the difference between doing this and trying to start a business based on sewer surfing (unless of course that is your passion…). Could you not do what you enjoyed forever? If you don’t know your passion, well that is another post topic, but in a nutshell, explore yourself, think of what you loved as a kid, ask people who REALLY know you. There’s many ways to go about discovering your passion.
Please raise some passions (as odd as they may be) and lets discuss them! Also I want to hear every reason why it won’t work and I would love to challenge any!
I will always advice people to start their own businesses. The common resistance is usually founded on the statement ‘I can’t do it. I do not have “what” it takes’. While this is not the focus of this post, I must assert that that statement means absolutely nothing to me for 2 main reasons.
Firstly, you don’t need to be master of all. No accounting skills? Ever heard of freelance accountants? Pretty bad at writing? Copy writing is a profession. Whether you chose to collaborate, patronise a friend, hire, or outsource; all skills you would possibly need are available out there. Web 2.0. tools are also extremely handy.
The next thing is truly an underestimation of potential. Everyday, I realise how much more powerful the mind is than we realise and give it credit for. It can do anything we set it to, accomplish any task (obviously within logical reason, I don’t think there’s anything that would give you the ability to fly!). To prove this to yourself, set 3 goals which would not be “easily” accomplished e.g. running a certain distance (just above your comfort zone); reading, for example, 30 pages a day of a 180 page book (to finish it in under a week); memorizing and flawlessly reciting a relatively “long” script. Accomplish any set of such 3 tasks and reflect on the whole process. You will most certainly feel different about ability then.
Now it’s definitely not equal, but none the less just as potent. The differences in environment, experience, state of mind, available time, etc, will affect realisation, but the fact remains. You can do anything you set your mind to. You can learn Mandarin. You can memorize the entire script of The Devil Wears Prada. You can understand the principles of astrophysics.
The next phase is as just as important. What do you decide to set your mind to accomplish?
This brings me back nicely to my focus of this post :) Why and how you should start a business. This is one of my favourite quotes which always sparks uproar: "Business is Simple". I exchange a product or a service for more money than it cost me to acquire. The difference in figures is my profit. The more I exchange, the more profit I make and vice versa. This is not hard to understand. Yes there are all the other variables, but this is fundamentally the underlying principle of any business. Sometimes, the model may vary and you may get your profits from a third party for example - i.e. a blog which generates revenue from advertising; but still a very simple concept. So it’s not beyond any of us.
Another key thing missed out when people think of businesses is the type of business. Ideally your business should be based on or around your passion. This is fundamental because not only does is turn work into “doing your thing”, but your entire approach towards it cannot help but be positive and enjoyable. A lot of people doubt the ability to harness their passions in this fashion, but I promise you, it can be done a vast majority of times. The key thing is a detailed well defined plan and confirmation of the financial viability of that plan.
Lets take a random example - You love flowers, how can this work? First reflex would think open a flower shop, but then what is your competitive advantage there? How can you compete with Interflora or Flowers USA? How can you get enough customers to sustain a living? It probably won’t work, right? Wrong.
Back to the drawing board: so you love flowers. Loving them, you must appreciate their fragrances. How about studying flowers and their derivative fragrances? This knowledge opens you up to opportunities in the fragrance industry (perfumes, moisturizers, shower gels), gives you ample content to blog about to an attentive audience and more possibilities. Staying with your love for actual flowers, how about specialising as a wedding florist? Or even retailing flowers (yes, like earlier mentioned) but focusing on a niche of exotic, imported flowers, giving you a unique competitive edge. What about doing something extremely unique with the flowers (writing out the recipients name in special shaped vases)? Endless opportunities from the simple love of flowers
Now the key things to remember are
1. Have a clear and definite goal and a relatively realistic plan to attain that goal
2. Identify what gaps must filled to equip you with the weapons necessary for attaining this goal
3. Fill these gaps!
4. Attack you plan
5. Persist till your goal is attained.
Your love for you passion is the difference between doing this and trying to start a business based on sewer surfing (unless of course that is your passion…). Could you not do what you enjoyed forever? If you don’t know your passion, well that is another post topic, but in a nutshell, explore yourself, think of what you loved as a kid, ask people who REALLY know you. There’s many ways to go about discovering your passion.
Please raise some passions (as odd as they may be) and lets discuss them! Also I want to hear every reason why it won’t work and I would love to challenge any!
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
Back to the Future: 10 Months
About 4 years ago, 3 friends and I got into one of those conversations where we spoke extensively about a range of topics and overturned a lot of shells to reveal true sentiments and emotions on EVERYTHING, no matter how personal it was. It lasted till about 7am, and of course by then, all had been said. Many "shots" came my way through the episode, but my resolve after leaving that conversation was to develop into the best person I could possibly be.
While we were too young to see clearly over the hedges made up of ego, hidden intentions and blatant inexperience; that commitment nonetheless affected my life immensely. It was the start of my ability to see things objectively (my personal sentiment aside) and accept truths about my flaws and shortcomings. From that day on I made an uphill climb towards being a better person to myself and others. Don't get me wrong, of course I still fell to weaknesses and while I might not have admitted it, ignored certain weak points and vices. But all in all, I was actively trying to progress.
When I planned to put up this post, I was convinced about the content and precise delivery. However, I just read a post by uncle, a true OG, who I would be doing injustice if I called him anything less than a devout mentor; and it just brought to the conscious, concepts which were merely starting to brew in my mind. WE DON'T KNOW JACK S**T ABOUT THIS LIFE!
Sure there are your basic truths and facts, but beyond these, there is a lot more going on around us than we can fathom. I cannot claim to have expertise in this, department, perhaps with time, experience will reveal more. At 20, I was convinced that by the time I was 27, I would be "balling". Now, in the second half of that prediction, the shape of this upward climb doesn't seem to tally up with projections. I worked hard, I took chances, I followed up on opportunities. Some just didn't play out, while others had detrimental effects on the bigger picture. Ultimately, I felt I had a decent prediction of my future, but I was very incorrect. How my views on such have changed.
But the ultimate thing I have learnt [note: lessons which encompass elements of theory are always subject to modification from actual experience and improved theory] is as follows: Money is great. It lets you do fantastic things and enjoy the finer side of life. It eases a lot of pressures and upgrades "status" in the eyes of the world. But there is so much more to life than Euro Euro Bill. I find this, this, this and this very interesting concepts and must say I have pondered over them extensively.
I have decisively concluded though, that I will chase financial liberation as stated in earlier posts. After attainment, I may reconsider my standpoint, so that is closed till then.
In the light of chasing financial liberation, I have renewed my resolve to live my life to full potential. I am currently developing habits which will facilitate these goals. This development processes will take an estimated 10 months. My guidelines are supplied courtesy of Leo's Zen Do Done.
While this is an extremely personal mission, Leo encourages making one's commitment as public as possible, simply because public positive pressure is an excellent "keep me in check" tool.
Why live life any way other than to the best of your ability?
While we were too young to see clearly over the hedges made up of ego, hidden intentions and blatant inexperience; that commitment nonetheless affected my life immensely. It was the start of my ability to see things objectively (my personal sentiment aside) and accept truths about my flaws and shortcomings. From that day on I made an uphill climb towards being a better person to myself and others. Don't get me wrong, of course I still fell to weaknesses and while I might not have admitted it, ignored certain weak points and vices. But all in all, I was actively trying to progress.
When I planned to put up this post, I was convinced about the content and precise delivery. However, I just read a post by uncle, a true OG, who I would be doing injustice if I called him anything less than a devout mentor; and it just brought to the conscious, concepts which were merely starting to brew in my mind. WE DON'T KNOW JACK S**T ABOUT THIS LIFE!
Sure there are your basic truths and facts, but beyond these, there is a lot more going on around us than we can fathom. I cannot claim to have expertise in this, department, perhaps with time, experience will reveal more. At 20, I was convinced that by the time I was 27, I would be "balling". Now, in the second half of that prediction, the shape of this upward climb doesn't seem to tally up with projections. I worked hard, I took chances, I followed up on opportunities. Some just didn't play out, while others had detrimental effects on the bigger picture. Ultimately, I felt I had a decent prediction of my future, but I was very incorrect. How my views on such have changed.
But the ultimate thing I have learnt [note: lessons which encompass elements of theory are always subject to modification from actual experience and improved theory] is as follows: Money is great. It lets you do fantastic things and enjoy the finer side of life. It eases a lot of pressures and upgrades "status" in the eyes of the world. But there is so much more to life than Euro Euro Bill. I find this, this, this and this very interesting concepts and must say I have pondered over them extensively.
I have decisively concluded though, that I will chase financial liberation as stated in earlier posts. After attainment, I may reconsider my standpoint, so that is closed till then.
In the light of chasing financial liberation, I have renewed my resolve to live my life to full potential. I am currently developing habits which will facilitate these goals. This development processes will take an estimated 10 months. My guidelines are supplied courtesy of Leo's Zen Do Done.
While this is an extremely personal mission, Leo encourages making one's commitment as public as possible, simply because public positive pressure is an excellent "keep me in check" tool.
Why live life any way other than to the best of your ability?
Friday, 7 March 2008
The Secret of Success
Should anyone dare to claim that an answer exists to this question? Even more bold would be to assert that one knows that answer. Because of the nature of the world we live in, perhaps one who has succeeded can rightfully say so and in such saying, be taken seriously by the "general public". Saying that, surely success varies from individual to individual. As Earl Nightingale rightly said "Success is the progressive realisation of a worthy ideal." That is surely definitive enough.
To state my case on the secret of success, I am going to start from the end.
For myself, I have defined success as:
1. Having complete financial freedom (i.e. not to be restrained from certain activity because of financial limitations)
2. Realising my full potential physically, mentally and spiritually.
3. Positively contributing to the lives of as many people as possible.
4. Having a few good and true friends.
5. Finding love in a good woman.
6. Raising a family.
I remember once asking an ex-girlfriend what she wanted most in life. She said "...to be happy". At the time, I didnt have the knowledge or experience to convince her that that statement was too vague to produce any tangible results. If you dont have a clearly defined list as the one above, please retire somewhere quietly, with a pen and paper; think about it really hard and compile that list. Take your time and remember, it's what YOU want. Not ANYONE else. This is so important because not only does it establish your end goal and quantify your aims; but writing it down has an effect of bringing it into being and making it physical. It is easier to respond to visual or auditory cues (for some it may be worth recording this if it would work better for you this way). Being able to perceive this stimulation helps to remind your mind, where you are going.
So after one's personal state of success has been defined, what next?
Many times the message has been regurgitated and remixed but it is highly as accurate as it is in as many versions: "We become what we think about". Stop. Dont rush it. Read it again. "We become what we think about". This statement is at the very foundation of success.
When I first came across it, I didn't understand the meaning straight away. It was not until i randomly came across another quote, from a BBC show on the self help industry, which goes: "Your emotions follow your thoughts". That, I could relate to directly as well as confirm logically. Think about it for a second and reflect on your own experiences of thoughts and feelings. Unquestionably correct. From that, I truly appreciated the power of the mind; and on going back to the statement "we become what we think about", I finally understood it.
So keeping it simple, we are a sum total of our feelings. The way we feel changes the way we take action. When you feel excited you act in a certain way, when you feel suspicious, you likewise act accordingly. And so forth. Success starts in one's conscious mind, with one's conscious thought. Other factors such as goals, persistence, determination, controlling negativity and one's company also play important roles (and will be duely addressed in the future). But remember the fundamental principle on which they all run: Success starts in one's mind with, one's conscious thought.
To give this statement more validation, imagine this - when you think of sad things: war, poverty in the world, natural disasters; you cant feel happy. If that is true, then I believe by we can rightfully affirm the reverse. When you think happy thoughts, you cant feel sad. For the more skeptical I will even rephrase: When you think happy thoughts, you are much less likely to feel sad.
Imagine the logic below:
If
sad thought is opposite to happy thought
and
sad thought is not equal to happy feeling
therefore
happy thought is not equal to sad feeling
and
happy thought must therefore be equal to happy feeling
If you are good in that department, you can even work this out into a set of logical, conditional equations.
So the line goes through conscious thought into feeling then action. You could go take it further into the subconscious, but I'm not the person to tell you much about that. I like it simple and will work from our conscious thought.
So building on the above, thinking of yourself as successful must equal feeling successful. And feeling successful must make you act differently. While there are no guarantees in life, surely that difference in action must be in the right direction. Definitely beats going the other way!
Truly understanding this will revolutionise your approach and attitude toward life. You will view your thoughts in a different way and most likely realise soon that you must therefore control your thought to control your actions. Your actions are a heavy determinant in the outcome of your life. If you do not honestly believe you are in control of your thoughts, I am sorry to say, but you are seriously evading responsibility.
Now all the above has been pretty high level. Taking it down a notch, I want you to imagine a pillar being held up by a framework. This pillar is your thoughts. The framework is everything that can affect you thought. From friends, global location, alcohol, current financial situation, your kids etc. By being aware of what you are thinking about, you can monitor which of these "frames" negatively affects your positive, affirmative thinking. When you identify anything, make a conscious, persistent and active effort to deal with it. Stop it from affective your thinking in a negative way, thus putting your emotions in check and governing your action. Do not complicate it, simply do what you must do!
There are numerous ways each of us will deal with this control. Personally, I love Haiku Productivity, but however you deal with your control, remember to be persistent. Dont expect an overnight turnaround.
To give ample credit where it is due, I owe the chief source of inspiration for this post to Earl Nightingale's The Strangest Secret. There is ample matetial to go away with and listen to time after time. This is really just my interpretation: The Secret of Success.
To state my case on the secret of success, I am going to start from the end.
For myself, I have defined success as:
1. Having complete financial freedom (i.e. not to be restrained from certain activity because of financial limitations)
2. Realising my full potential physically, mentally and spiritually.
3. Positively contributing to the lives of as many people as possible.
4. Having a few good and true friends.
5. Finding love in a good woman.
6. Raising a family.
I remember once asking an ex-girlfriend what she wanted most in life. She said "...to be happy". At the time, I didnt have the knowledge or experience to convince her that that statement was too vague to produce any tangible results. If you dont have a clearly defined list as the one above, please retire somewhere quietly, with a pen and paper; think about it really hard and compile that list. Take your time and remember, it's what YOU want. Not ANYONE else. This is so important because not only does it establish your end goal and quantify your aims; but writing it down has an effect of bringing it into being and making it physical. It is easier to respond to visual or auditory cues (for some it may be worth recording this if it would work better for you this way). Being able to perceive this stimulation helps to remind your mind, where you are going.
So after one's personal state of success has been defined, what next?
Many times the message has been regurgitated and remixed but it is highly as accurate as it is in as many versions: "We become what we think about". Stop. Dont rush it. Read it again. "We become what we think about". This statement is at the very foundation of success.
When I first came across it, I didn't understand the meaning straight away. It was not until i randomly came across another quote, from a BBC show on the self help industry, which goes: "Your emotions follow your thoughts". That, I could relate to directly as well as confirm logically. Think about it for a second and reflect on your own experiences of thoughts and feelings. Unquestionably correct. From that, I truly appreciated the power of the mind; and on going back to the statement "we become what we think about", I finally understood it.
So keeping it simple, we are a sum total of our feelings. The way we feel changes the way we take action. When you feel excited you act in a certain way, when you feel suspicious, you likewise act accordingly. And so forth. Success starts in one's conscious mind, with one's conscious thought. Other factors such as goals, persistence, determination, controlling negativity and one's company also play important roles (and will be duely addressed in the future). But remember the fundamental principle on which they all run: Success starts in one's mind with, one's conscious thought.
To give this statement more validation, imagine this - when you think of sad things: war, poverty in the world, natural disasters; you cant feel happy. If that is true, then I believe by we can rightfully affirm the reverse. When you think happy thoughts, you cant feel sad. For the more skeptical I will even rephrase: When you think happy thoughts, you are much less likely to feel sad.
Imagine the logic below:
If
sad thought is opposite to happy thought
and
sad thought is not equal to happy feeling
therefore
happy thought is not equal to sad feeling
and
happy thought must therefore be equal to happy feeling
If you are good in that department, you can even work this out into a set of logical, conditional equations.
So the line goes through conscious thought into feeling then action. You could go take it further into the subconscious, but I'm not the person to tell you much about that. I like it simple and will work from our conscious thought.
So building on the above, thinking of yourself as successful must equal feeling successful. And feeling successful must make you act differently. While there are no guarantees in life, surely that difference in action must be in the right direction. Definitely beats going the other way!
Truly understanding this will revolutionise your approach and attitude toward life. You will view your thoughts in a different way and most likely realise soon that you must therefore control your thought to control your actions. Your actions are a heavy determinant in the outcome of your life. If you do not honestly believe you are in control of your thoughts, I am sorry to say, but you are seriously evading responsibility.
Now all the above has been pretty high level. Taking it down a notch, I want you to imagine a pillar being held up by a framework. This pillar is your thoughts. The framework is everything that can affect you thought. From friends, global location, alcohol, current financial situation, your kids etc. By being aware of what you are thinking about, you can monitor which of these "frames" negatively affects your positive, affirmative thinking. When you identify anything, make a conscious, persistent and active effort to deal with it. Stop it from affective your thinking in a negative way, thus putting your emotions in check and governing your action. Do not complicate it, simply do what you must do!
There are numerous ways each of us will deal with this control. Personally, I love Haiku Productivity, but however you deal with your control, remember to be persistent. Dont expect an overnight turnaround.
To give ample credit where it is due, I owe the chief source of inspiration for this post to Earl Nightingale's The Strangest Secret. There is ample matetial to go away with and listen to time after time. This is really just my interpretation: The Secret of Success.
Monday, 25 February 2008
New Chapter
The Founder of the Clan. While my folks never really expantiatied, that is the meaning of my first name, Owuno. There is a song by Jay Z on the album American Gangster, called American Dreamin. I mention that because I like to refer to my current situation as "African Dreamin". Born and raised in Nigeria, West Africa; I came to the UK 6 years ago and now, I'm working hard to secure complete financial independence while fufilling my dreams. I may go back someday, but ultimately, I would like to have a couple of homes around the world. This way, I can spend varying lengths of time in any as I please (til kids come along I guess!)
I'm qualified with an M.Eng in Medical Systems Engineering, but havent worked a day in that field since graduation. I am currently planning to relocate to London Town, England. Pretty excited about that.
I feel strongly about being the best person I can be, on all fronts. I am also convinced that building your own business must be done and is a key to financial freedom. I strategise very well, and apply this arduently and effectively to start up businesses, thus the forte of my enterprise - Dangerfield Studios
Other personal ventures include Pen & Canvas and wed.com.ng.
My posts will roll with my simplex mind, mainly covering business strategy, development, case studies, music, books, design (and the arts generally) as well aszen habits - for ultimate personal fulfillment.
By now, you'll know whether or not I'm your type of person. If yes, that's FANtastic
-------
Government Name: Owuno Ogbeh
Alias: Dini Dangerfield; Mo.
Sex: Male
Age: 24
Location: UK - soon to be updated
Interests: Business Development, The Arts and All things Zen
I'm qualified with an M.Eng in Medical Systems Engineering, but havent worked a day in that field since graduation. I am currently planning to relocate to London Town, England. Pretty excited about that.
I feel strongly about being the best person I can be, on all fronts. I am also convinced that building your own business must be done and is a key to financial freedom. I strategise very well, and apply this arduently and effectively to start up businesses, thus the forte of my enterprise - Dangerfield Studios
Other personal ventures include Pen & Canvas and wed.com.ng.
My posts will roll with my simplex mind, mainly covering business strategy, development, case studies, music, books, design (and the arts generally) as well aszen habits - for ultimate personal fulfillment.
By now, you'll know whether or not I'm your type of person. If yes, that's FANtastic
-------
Government Name: Owuno Ogbeh
Alias: Dini Dangerfield; Mo.
Sex: Male
Age: 24
Location: UK - soon to be updated
Interests: Business Development, The Arts and All things Zen
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