How to Avoid Distractions in School and in Business
April 22, 2008
Who has the best widget, program, or software this week? I guarantee that no matter where you’re located, someone wants you to see the latest, greatest something, and if you try it once, the creator promises that it will change your life.
I’ve heard this claim hundreds of times while in college and operating a business. How about you? Very few times, if ever, has this claim positively altered my study practices or post-college goals. Three things have occurred in most cases:
- Time drain while attempting to learn a process that took me back to the basics (what I had been doing)
- Energy overload becoming enthused with a product that promised a positive result but did not deliver
- Wasted money (if available for a fee) due to a convincing sales pitch
I’ll admit that some items do deliver, but many more are a distraction, delaying your arrival from the goal you want to reach.
Here are three methods I suggest to students or business owners when speaking at seminars throughout the world to determine if a new program is a distraction or good deal:
- Ask yourself before opting in, “How will this item create a better experience from what I use now?”
- Search for comments from other users. You’ll be able to tell the good reviews from those that are planted or mean spirited.
- Compare the pros and cons with competitive options.
You’ll deal with many distractions throughout your life. Develop good habits now to make the best decisions as you sidestep your way to success.
Technorati Tags: college success tips, business success tips
Leadership Lessons that Last a Lifetime
April 5, 2008
Look at children playing together in any playground or classroom setting. Some find comfort and joy on their own, and other guide their playmates in team-based activities.
This innocent environment uncovers, at an early age, who will lead, who will follow, and which children will march to their own tune. But this young interaction is not an absolute indication of future status.
I was fiercely independent in kindergarten, not needing playmates to satisfy my curiosity. Things changed 10 years later. My high school gym class was separated into two teams. We raced against each other to win bragging rights.
After watching the first race, I assessed weaknesses on the opposing team and shared the news with teammates. That strategy gave us the winning edge, and we claimed the trophy.
Although my strengths serve my individual needs, I’m always ready to set up to team leader status. College students, entrepreneurs, and employees must also learn to balance both sides, and there are plenty of opportunities for this at work and in social environments.
Convincing others to listen and act on your words takes confidence and compassion.
Iron-fisted individuals need not apply. Your mission is to convince team members that you have the wisdom to get them to the goal line, even if this is your first time at the top.
Remember these three leadership traits.
- The manner in which you conduct yourself in front of others is key to winning their trust.
- Successful completion of independent tasks helps to elevate your leadership potential.
- Giving up is never an option. Leaders always find or inspire others to develop an alternative method to get the job done.
This lesson is an excerpt from my keynote presentation, 10 Leadership Skills that Build Success in College and Life. Audiences leave the event with a clear understanding of how to mold and strengthen their own leadership styles to motivate teams in every environment.
Email AVG Talent Management through the contact form to bring this inspiring message to your students. Ask me about free copies of my book, Smart Students’ Guide to…Leadership Lessons that Last a Lifetime, when I speak at your school.
Technorati Tags: leadership lessons, college success
Quick and Easy Tips for College Success
April 4, 2008
Attending college was one of my smartest decisions.
It’s not because the courses helped me to achieve success in my career, although learning paved the foundation, but because interactions with the faculty and fellow students taught me about leadership and teamwork.
I achieved my 3.62 grade point average through sacrifice and lots of dedication.
Today’s students are in a position to consider putting aside some outside interest that will not benefit them in the long run in exchange for the traits that will create a successful learning experience throughout the college years.
Here are three methods that helped me achieve academic success.
- Connect with the teacher on the first day. Focusing on the course curriculum as the teacher explains what he expects of you during the semester sets the tone for a great experience.
Teachers are often asked, by students, to explain what was already established on the first day. That will win you no points or exemplary grade.
- Select a seat in one of the first two rows. The visibility allows you to better review everything written on the board, slides projected on screens, and hear communication between the teacher, invited guests, and fellow students.
In most classes, my seat was in the first row. No one wanted my seat until I scored highest in the first test, which occurred in a majority of courses. For some reason, other students thought my class seat contained magic to attain higher grades.
I soon found myself arriving for class 25 minutes early just to keep my seat. It was not only a great place to hear the lecture; it also provided me with a panoramic view and easy access to the teacher when I needed help.
- Participate in every class. Interactive participation is crucial to ensure that you understand the course concepts, and debating facts from your point of view makes for a lively discussion between you and fellow students.
This interaction will also help at test time because you will clearly remember critical points shared by the teacher as you review your notes.
There is more that I will share with students at your college on strategies for success to encourage them throughout their education.
My keynote address, How to Program Yourself for College Success, outlines what I’ve experienced, how to ensure memorable class interactions, and why doing well in school sets the tone for exceptional careers after graduation.
Email AVG Talent Management through the contact form to bring this inspiring message to your students. Ask me about free copies of my book, Smart Students’ Guide to…Successful Transition into College, when I speak at your school.
Technorati Tags: college success, transition into college, how to succeed in college
