Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Celebrity safeguards to relationships

If you are like me and feel the same way about family then read this.
It comes without saying, that while the safest place to be when all the beans are spilled and gossip breaks loose, is by-your-lonesome, detached, and as far as possible away from a relationship—so it seems. But truth will holler and wisdom will echo: More privacy please! Get a clue, you think? And in the advent of a barrage of broken relationships and fall-outs, most celebrities could use a few pointers on how to keep their lives intact by enforcing tighter personal boundaries.

Without resurrecting the myriad of sound bites and hullabaloos, 2009 has certainly seen its share of bad relating examples. From the greatest and richest to the least and poorest of them, paparazzi have had a feast that will last them—well, only long enough ‘till the next fallout or wedding vows go flying deep from right field and splitting the uprights, while fans scream, “it’s Good!”

Love Is a Choice: The Definitive Book on Letting Go of Unhealthy Relationships

As we venture into 2010, hopefully with some added wisdom that is, I trust we have seen enough “not-so-good” examples of relationships gone haywire to know how to change the relating circumstances for the better. And if for some reason this may not be clear to anyone, keeping ones private life away from the press is the most successful way of keeping your marriage and family together. Remember, family is sacred, and should be kept as such. Anything else spells disaster! But don’t take it from me, I’m only a messenger.

Since Tiger Woods, the latest catastrophes we’ve seen, are Jon and Kate Gosselin, of
whom, eight little children are caught in the middle of a life changing tsunami. And although it is in no one person’s best interest to point a finger, since all are susceptible of such short comings, the bottom line is very evident: lives are ruined when no boundaries are established and greed becomes the main focus.

We Love Each Other, but... Simple Secrets to Strengthen Your Relationship and Make Love Last

So where do we go from here? And moreover, what should we do to protect those we love in 2010? Well to begin with, ponder this: an open door will reveal whatsoever is behind it. Hence, as keeper of your door, only allow those who will help protect your valued treasures (family and loved ones) to enter therein.

Some helpful tips to protect your family and relationships:

• Keep your family away from the press
• Separate your job from your work
• Your work is your family and your job is your profession
• Pray for wisdom and spiritual protection
• Your enemy is not the media, but a force greater than the people whom are consumed by it.


The Relationship Handbook

Finally, you can choose where and what you do with your life, but your families are chosen for you. Your main concern is to protect them!

Monday, October 12, 2009

How to Become the World's Greatest Dad: 10 Best Tips

There is no trick to being a good father; however, fatherhood is whatever you put into it. It comes without saying: all men have the potential to be and become great fathers, but not many succeed to an acceptable plateau.
It has also been said that males are in general, busier than their female counterparts; but still, the truth remains, a schedule should not take precedence over spending quality time with your family.

Corporate America will not tell you this, but family comes first, not the big job or highfalutin careers. Also, ever wonder why some kids grow up not knowing their fathers, or show resentment toward them, even though they share the same house?

It is important that we distinguish the difference between house, and a home. A house is nothing more than a building or shelter, or a place where you live. On the other hand, a home is an environment that is designed to foster the enhancement of life and happiness of those within it. Also, a home is always conducive to growth, love, caring, and sharing. Is this you? Ask yourself: is there anything, that I can do to be a better father to my child or children?

It's all about bonding, and the more you do it the better it gets; and the quicker you start the more effective you will be. Most men don't realize that fatherhood is a lifetime commitment to a child, not a role; and the early years are most vital, as do the teenage and early adulthood. You must first plan to be there through it all: your honor, respect, and life depends on it.

Step.1 First, do this for the mother of your child:
Before the baby is born, massage her feet and rub her belly. This is vital to you both having a healthy child. A stress and frequently fatigue mother transfers her emotional stresses to the child. Please, note, you will never quench all the fiery emotional-darts that will come at you; never!

You will need a level head; So be strong and don't allow simple things to frustrate you. It is in your best interest to reduce the amount of stress she experience. But above all, the most important thing is to create the right environment that will alleviate any tension, discomforts, and improve all levels of support to her during this crucial time. And by limiting the negatives, you will find a happier, healthy mother who will be at her optimal best to nurture your child.

Step.2 Pray, read and talk to the baby as much as you can so (him/her) can know your voice. This also aide in building a deeper bond when communicating with the child as time goes by; as it will fly by really fast, in a blink!

Step.2 You must go into the labor room with her, stay, and do not pass out. If you do, you will have missed the best part of God's creation. Most women will not tell you, but they admire a man who is willing to go the EXTRA MILE, the long haul, through thick and thin, and the highs and lows just for her support. This she will never forget, regardless of how many times you mess up in the future, and there will be a lot of those.

Step.4 Learn and love to read (for self-improvement and to acquire knowledge to protect your family).

Step.5 Do not be afraid of poop, yes, poop! Remember, it is just processed food mixed with some additives and gastric juices to help in the digestion process. A little soap and water (H20) will clear that up quickly.

Step.6 Show You Care...Sharpen your lullaby singing skills (it helps when putting them to sleep).

Step.7 Never wait to be told the following; we need: (diapers, formula, baby oil and power). Her requests should sound more like this: where did you put the stuff for the baby, honey? This is assuming that you've already gotten them. The more reliable you show yourself to be, the more secure she will feel; and the more secure the mother is, she transfers this to the child. In the end, you sir, have got a tightly secure family. Remember, it's not love that keeps a family together, it is security as a result of love in motion. Hence, love is what you do! And if you do it well, your life will never be the same.

Step.8 Always keep an emergency stash of cash somewhere (only you should know).

Step.9 Never ask your wife or the child's mother for money, only if you just have to--but you shouldn't because you always have emergency funds (EF)somewhere, Right? It doesn't matter if it's five dollars ($5), at least you are able to buy a gallon of milk. Just make sure you have something.

Step.10 See yourself as a creator of things, people and ideas, not just a sperm donor; any man can do that. You are the most important being to your child and mother of. Assuming your responsibility is important; however, you must model for your child. He or she must see you in the light they hope to be or even better. Don't allow a cartoon figure to be his favorite person on earth. Never put anything before the most important aspect of their lives, and hope for the best, and for things to work themselves out. Bottom line, they will not unless you make it work. Also, never be afraid to ask for help; we all need it at some point in our lives. There's is always an answer somewhere, somehow; just ask!

Finally, in your pursuit to becoming a better father, do not forget, all things are possible to them who believe and work toward any desired goal. Your goal might be to spend more time with your son or daughter, or even, remember their birthdays, like Jack Nicholson in the movie "The Bucket List." It's a start. And who said you have to be perfect the first time around; no one! So why not start today? Be the hero of your family and not the zero.

©2009 Andrew Guy


Tips & Warnings
No one parent is more important than the other; thus, never make this mistake by saying "mother is more important than father, or vise versa. Both parents are highly important in providing a great life for the offspring(s) and each other. You are a team; it takes four (4) letters to make this word, not one!Team up with other fathers whom have done it before you.Look for great examples of fathers you might want to emulate, but don't lose yourself in your search. Your family needs you, not some imaginary person.Fatherhood is not an overnight process, it takes time practice, dedication, and above all, perseverance.

To Learn more about Andrew and sign up for his FREE NEWSLETTER

Resources: [Photo1 by:fatherhood.org], [Photo2 by:telegraph.co.uk]

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

7 Tips That Will Change Your Life

Your life was not designed for you to worry about bills; your job is to live, be merry and be thankful for all that you have, had, and will receive with time--nothing else. Living is an unfolding process, in which you develop and turn weaknesses in strengths to meet unseen challenges. Many have not yet discovered this, but you can today.

It is said that there are no guarantees in life, but there are: you will encounter changes; people will let you down; your plans will fail, and you will get knock down. But even then, it's still not over. Many of these will come in like a flood "not to break you" but to make you stronger for the road ahead. Life is full of corners, twists and turns, ups and downs, let-downs and build-ups, hills and valleys, but there is nothing worth living than the one you have. The difference between you and the dead is that, they have nothing to look forward to, but you do. Just live. I know this sound crazy, but "how do one just live?" See below for your life changing tips:


1. Never be too concerned about what others say about you because there is more to life than gazing, gossiping, and criticizing; many of them wish they were you, and people only talk about important things they know little about; be happy you are on their lips.

2. Never try to see around the bend, it will come; just be prepared.

3. Cherish every moment that God, the Creator of all things allows you to experience.

4. Give freely, even the things you may love dearly; you never know what may come back.

5. If you value life you will see the good in others and want the best for them.

6. Never clasp your hands too tight or else, you stop the flow of life and miss a blessing.

7. Forgive others, your life depends on it.

Well, "just live" does not mean you shirk your responsibilities (jobs, parenting, loyalties to others and self), it means you try your utmost best to enjoy every (opportunity, experience, moment, and the activities of your limbs) as your eyes behold the day. There are so many people who go about life just, existing and never discover the privileges of enjoying life's many blessings.

Your life is but a vapor and worrying is a vacuum; if you spend your time worrying, you will consume the very vapor that sustains you. It takes more to worry than to smile. Every moment spent worrying can never be regained. It is gone forever. Begin today with the rest of your life mind. Breathe. Live. Give thanks!

Andrew Guy is a well sought out Motivational Speaker, known for his humorous approach to breaking down the myths of Leadership, advocacy for health & wellness, and empowering message for youth and others.

To Learn more about Andrew visit: www.andrewguyspeak.com and sign up for his FREE NEWSLETTER where he offers tips on how to improve your day through laughter, wellness, and tips for student leaders.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Never Lose Hope - Your Best is Yet to Come!

For many of us, even in our glory-days and climatic achievements, we still have not yet seen the greatness of our potential. We are like an unbaked cake; not yet finished, but still in the oven awaiting all its ingredients to merge together, with time, pressure and heat. We have everything we need to be great; you and I were made that way, "fearfully and wonderfully created," said God.

And when you have been tried, tested and proven true: like the well-finished cake, oven-crispy, yet moist at its center and tasty with every bite! --so will the right opportunities meet your preparedness after you have endured the conventionally tormenting heat of the oven (your trials), for a season.

Upon exiting the oven, you will develop characteristics, which you never had before. For example, you will be a little crisp on the outside; this represents your strength; the moistened center signifies your temperament to deal with the challenges that life may bring, and the sweet taste is your reward because of the faith and steadfastness to your journey. Never give up!

Might I add, no one likes the oven: it's clustered, hot, no A/C, dark at times, and have course, very lonely. However, there is a bigger purpose than you are now able to see; but will become clearer to you with time. And if you would just hang-in-there for a little while longer, your taste buds will surely appreciate the long awaited arrival of your labored fruits. One thing is true, and this you will discover--you can't rush the taste of greatness. It takes time, faith, long-suffering, and hope. Try to be patient. During your trials, like the oven, it may seem like you are the only one having it hard or feeling the harsh heat. Many a times, others are experiencing something much harder than you, but remember, those who feel it, knows it!

And the grass is never greener on the other side, regardless of what the nay-sayers may say or imply! Your oven experience was meant to bake you into the person you are to become: Great! not mediocre; Solid! not watered-down; Resilient! not, here today, gone tomorrow; and have course, Rewarding! not in vain. Mind you, life is not a race; but there are people who live life as such: this is my life, some will say, and I am in total control. I must do so and so by this time; I must accomplish all my goals (marry, kids, job, house, and all the glitters) by a certain age, no ifs, ands, or buts!

Some may achieve all the above, and more; but at what price? As the saying goes, "not everything that glitters is gold." Some are simply "gold-plated" and without substance. The truth is, while success may have various appearances, many are empty souls seeking refuge. On the other hand, you may at times look at those same people (having a ball), and others like them and say to yourself, "wow, they are definitely living the life I wish I had; or at the very least, come close to it. They have everything I wish I had! Gosh! when will my turn come? Or, I don't feel like I have done anything worthwhile; my life is just a "big-flop!" Those negative thoughts are only distractions. Just keep your focus, and keep reminding yourself that this too will pass, and that you were made for such a times as this, like Ester of the bible. Things happen to everyone, good and bad!

Never mind the pushers and showers; pacing yourself is the best thing you can do. Consider this: an over-heated oven burns whatever it holds, but one that is regulated, with time and temperament, assures lasting success. A life with anxiety leads to unending disappointments and pain; meanwhile, patience, timing and dedication brings much fruit and success beyond measures. Life requires endurance, core-values, the realization that you are not always in control, and things happen regardless of how well you plan. So, be open to life and circumstances, for in them lies hope and the creation of sheer strength. Never give up, you are closer than you think!

On the other hand, you must know when to step on the gas. That is, don't allow anyone to push your pedal; do it yourself. By doing so you will be internally motivated to accomplishing all your dreams and aspirations, instead of doing them to please others. No one knows you better than you, except God, the maker of all things. Above all, a failure is not always what it amounts to be; it is only another person's interpretation and unfulfilled expectation of you, not yours! And, never do for others what you are not willing to do for yourself. "To thine own self be true, William Shakespeare!" In other words, just--KEEP IT REAL!

To book Andrew Guy for your conference, or as a speaker at your college, school, or youth event:

Visit Andrew's website: http://www.DatphunnyGuy.com. For College and other speaking services, Get FREE motivational tips, Articles, subscription to my newsletter, and tips for improving your campus, youth programs, and much more.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Remembering "The King of Pop" Michael Jackson

by: Andrew Guy

It is very rare, at least in my lifetime, when the world is blessed with a touch of grace, vigor, sheer talent, precision, and unprecedentedly God-gifted skills, that encompasses all the necessary ingredients to season the earth for years to come, in the likes of an Indiana born Mega-star.

Many people who knew of Michael Jackson, the average you and I, may never truly know him at all. However, like every other human being, which possesses an extremely complex make-up, our basic need is love and appreciation. And the reason for this is that, while millions mourn his death, they may never realized the true impact of Jackson's legacy was a cry to be loved, and to "change the world, make it a better place for you, for me, and the entire human race." In this song part of the lyric says, "there are people dying, if we care enough for the living,' we should do what we can to 'make it a better world for you and for me." [article continues below]


To really know Michael is to listen to his music, not by his costumes, facial masks, unending surgeries, failures and victories, because the very essence of his music tells the story. The bible says that out of the heart flows the abundance of the issues of life. And while many are quick to cast their opinion and judgments on the grave life, which he lived off the stage, the fact still remains and to poignantly (grievingly) say, neither of us are in the position to point a finger; since "we have all sinned and fell short of the glory of God (Rom. 8:23). We all have our problems, but only those beneath the microscope of life remain visibly discussed.

This is indeed, a wake-up call for us all. So often we spend an entire lifetime giving to others, but if we as humans fail to give back to ourselves the things, which are life-preserving (love, rest, and appreciation for life), the very thing we give away may one day take our life. And while legacy is a reflection of a man's contribution to society, "true legacy" is using our gifts to bring glory to God and for the benefit of others; anything else, is simply vain. The bible says, to let our light so shine that men may see our good works (which He placed inside us) and glorify our father, God, in heaven (Matt 5:16). That light is love! And if we give it freely, and never sell a million records, nor ever reach the platinum status of life, rest assured, there will be millions of hearts touched, and billions of records broken at ones willingness to give the very thing God told us to do. Love, it covers a multitude of sin and sinners.

Not everyone was born to be a "STAR," but we are all stars in the creator's eyes. For we are fearfully and wonderfully created (Ps. 139:14). Let us not miss the mark by focusing on the wrong things: Michael Jackson was a man, a human being just like you and I. And if we see only his attributes (the music, the dance, the charities, and wealth) and not the human which God has used to bless millions, then we too would have missed it.

HE WAS BEFORE HE WERE:


•HUMAN BEFORE FAME
•A SON BEFORE ICON
•A BROTHER BEFORE LEGEND
•A CHILD BEFORE ADULT
•ALIVE BEFORE DEAD


Let us use this opportunity, not as a period of morning and grief, but to cherish life, family and the intangible things that make living so great an experience ever to be told, that mere tributes and repetition of awards and accomplishments seem invisible to the gift of life. R.I.P (M.J.J; 1958-2009).

Copyright 2009 Andrew Guy



Visit Andrew's website: http://www.andrewguyspeaks.com Get FREE motivational tips, Articles, subscription to my newsletter, college speaking services, and tips for improving your campus, youth programs, and much more

Balance: The Keys To Student Success

Regardless of your status in life or educational background, higher education is a privilege, and careful balance of life leads to student success.

Though many, if not all, may possess the keys to a door [life] not everyone utilizes it's functions. That is, to insert our keys into the keyhole [our minds] turn, and then push forward [the process of opening a door] ourselves into a new beginning. One of balance and center. Each day is a renaissance, a rebirth of that once was and is to come. As fellow students and future clinicians, I implore us to seek balance. For in deed, it is our sole purpose of being here. To restore the body, which was once healthy and functional, but has now become dysfunctional due to imbalance, and mal-alignment.

The same is true about life. Our journey here is to learn all we can, so we can be the best we can, to all we can. However, let us keep in mind that it is in fact, a journey. Like many of us who frequently race [5Ks and more], not all finish at the same time. But with determination, sacrifice and grace, all things are possible.

As we study the human body, we learn that if all things being constant [homeostasis, balance] optimal functioning is possible. However, should imbalance occur, whether [musculature, vascular, ligaments or connective tissues] the results are imminent, pathology and dysfunction, and sometimes death.

Mechanically, an imbalance arises when a long and stretched-out muscle is held in such a position by its counterpart, the short and tight muscle. We also learn, that any imbalance in musculature causes mal-alignment, which leads to mal-wearing of surrounding tissues, which concludes a myriad of acquired diseases and disparities. In congruency with our study of health and wellness, all of the above are avoidable;
And regardless of how dismal it may appear at times, there is hope--Cheer up, there is a cure.

I encourage you to take a mental break everyday for at least ten minutes. Just ten minutes! And for those of you whom are time-conscious, you can use a stopwatch to time yourselves. We pay thousands to be at this beautiful campus, why not enjoy it. Go for a walk; sit by the pond; use the basketball court to play; read a book that is not study-related; get to know someone new; sit next to someone new every other day. Remember you cannot choose your patients, they choose you. Why not start now? Join with a friend and talk about the good-ole days; pray for each other; call your distant families regularly; give a high-five to your classmates or professor.

Let us be advocates of a great environment, and therefore, a better tomorrow. It may seem odd at first to those who are not inclined; but remember, advocacy is the ability to see what no one else sees, yet is necessary for the betterment of all. Also, it is the willingness to step out and make a change even when your feet says no! Don't wait for a survey to tell your professor how well they are doing, and how their dedication to excellence has enlightened you. Simply put, just tell them. Let them know how much you value their efforts and expertise.

In lay-terms, appreciate your opportunities because many do not have what you do. As once stated by a USA professor, “find something to be thankful for, and write it down.” Hey, your mental health is vital to your survival. Start by creating that healthy environment, and set yourselves up for success. Another gifted professor once said these words from a country perspective, “A little bit-a-something is better than a whole-latta nothing.”

Remember, if your sole purpose for going to school is just to graduate, then you would have missed your calling. And, after all your studies you finally made it to graduation, but are no good to your patients because of burn-out, again, you would have missed the boat.

Above all, take five minutes each day to meditate on your creator. It is ironic how we study every other book except the one that leads to life. It is great to study, academically, I love it; but “remember, there will be no end to books, and too much of it leads to weariness of the flesh” [Eccl.12:12, Ampl.].
I love you all very much, and I consider myself very privilege to be here with many of you, and hope that through balance and good practice we will make it to the finish line---well equip to meet the needs of our awaiting patients.

Copyright 2009 Andrew Guy. All Rights Reserved

Monday, April 20, 2009

The Key to True Happiness

Ever wonder why some people are happier even though they don't have millions, and those whom society viewed to be more fortunate are unhappy? There is a BIG secret and I am about to reveal it right now! It's the greatest challenge given to us from our creator, God the Father, and it's called putting others before you, thinking more highly of your fellow man than you would yourself...also known to the spirit-led, as selflessness.

It is no secret that we are not always happy at the same time. I guess, we sort of take turns at this, "I wanna be happy" anecdote. The truth is, we can all be, but only with a few key applications in mind. As an instrument of God, I believe that we are all given gifts for the benefit of others, and not ourselves. These gifts, to some one, two, and to others more; I call them, “Gifts of servanthood” are the key components in living a fulfilled life. Have you ever wondered why so many people quit their jobs after years of nine-to-five routine? It is because of unfulfilled desires. There is a part of us, given by God that must be satisfied in order for us to have “TRUE JOY” and lasting happiness.

This Will Blow Your Mind:
Riches do not make you happy, fulfillment does. Have you ever wondered why some “RICH” people are so anxious to share their wealth? It is not because of tax right-offs, as many would have you believe. They just can’t help it. There is a special part inside everyone of us that must be satisfied through serving, and since money is only an object that cannot fill this spiritual void, the only way they can curb this longing is by giving.

Are you broke and in need of money? Ask God to show you the wealth that he has laid up for you. If that not in God’s will for you then, build your own wealth and share it with others. Find something that brings you happiness, and that you are always willing to do, even for free…that is where you need to be. Also, do not look for a job because a job is temporary. You are hired to be retired! Now that is the saddest part of growing up. Have you ever wonder why kids are always happy? It is because their spirits are untainted, they do not have a job, neither do they have to worry about retirement; they just live. So can you!

Ever Wondered Why?

Mothers are always happy when they have their first child? Pastors always seem happier than the congregation? Or motivational speakers seem like they have just taken a shot of the new drug called “life-with-fulfillment” [LWF]? Again, it is not because of some drug or hoopla; not at all! They are simply fulfilled. Simple, yet powerful! They unlike many of us have been given a chance to increase their joy by serving others. Life is a blessing, and indeed, you can be a blessing to others by finding what brings you the most joy, fulfillment, and gratitude or (whichever word churns your coffee). Get your fillings so you can be emptied out into someone else’s life.

Start Today:
If it took you five or ten minutes to read this, then you just lost ten minutes of your life. However, if you plan on taking action after reading this, and you are now brainstorming for “life-with-fulfillment” ideas, then you have just gain something priceless.
Remember, you can start today, don’t wait for tomorrow, because even that, is not guaranteed. Bottom line, life without fulfillment is empty. Stop working and start serving—that’s where life begins!

©2009 Andrew Guy


Andrew Guy is a dynamic and versatile motivational speaker/humorist with a one-of-a-kind sense of humor, and an expert on student leadership. His ability to captivate audiences, while leaving a touch of inspiration in their hearts has made him a favorite among colleges, universities, high schools, leadership groups, and team-focused organizations.

To book Andrew Guy for your conference, college, youth, or church events :CLICK HERE or visit us at www.DatphunnyGuy.com