I have always fought the thought of death. It is gruesome, black and haunting. Although I like to live my life to the fullest, at times the thought of untimely death ponders on my mind for so long that it starts killing into my good times. No, I am not speaking here about just some spiritual awakening; instead I am telling you how actually I got my confidence to live again with the 2012 Survival Guide.
I have always been aware that our news channels never give us the complete picture, no matter how bad the things may be. We are allowed to assume that every disaster will be taken care of by the government, however when the actual disaster strikes, do we really have time to wait for any such machinery to help us out? The radio and TV broadcast centers are just a medium used by this same government to make us believe that the picture is as rosy as ever. Yet the thought of facing December 21, 2012 has been recurring as a bad dream for me.
If you are not aware of the tragedy that awaits us on this foretold day, let me tell you that we face one of the world's largest natural disasters on this catastrophic day. NASA predicts that on this day the intense Solar Flares will threaten all communication satellites and power grid transformers. All lights will go blank and when the darkness starts to envelope you, you will be left wondering about what to do next. However, it will be too late to start if you are not well-equipped before hand.
Be it the Hindus, Chinese or the Egyptians, all calendars and myths point out that 2012 is the year where the next big change is going to come in. Almost all religious gurus, political leaders and scientists are aware of this great crisis lying ahead of us and yet not one of them is going to help you out. Being conscious of this fact, I decided to safeguard myself and my family by choosing the easiest crisis management method. I know I can do nothing to stop this from happening, but I can easily fight this out by using the simple tips given in the 2012 Survival Guide.
Now I have nothing more to fear. I sleep in peace every night because I know that I am ready to face this huge day better than most others. Death is no doubt the end of my journey but I am ready to fight back for my life till the day I was actually meant to leave this world. And I will leave only after I have fought the best battle ever!
Monday, July 18, 2011
2012 - Slowing Ourselves Down to Meet Our Goals
As we approach 2012, the end date of the Mayan Calendar, we have all observed how our lives have grown more intense. This is due to the higher energies or light coming to the Planet at this time. This light has a vibratory rate much faster than we are used to.
Those of us who are doing inner work are finding that releasing outworn patterns is imperative, because the old ways are not working any longer. Instead, we must find revelations and healings of self and life at a quicker pace than ever before. Others, who are not as self aware, may react to this phenomenon through agitation or violence.
What can we do to ease the pressures of the times we live in? The Hopis have a prophecy about our planetary dilemma. They say, "As things speed up, you slow down." You might ask, "How can you do that?" and "Is it really possible?" After all, we do live in the age of instant communications, highway cowboys, and fifty-hour work weeks.
An easy way to slow down is to simply breathe deeply, and slowly. By doing this you can begin to release your fear, that you do not have enough time to get everything finished. A great exercise you can practice anywhere and anytime is to slow your breath down:
*Breathe in for 4 counts.
*Hold your breath for 4 counts.
*Breathe out for 4 counts.
*And hold your breath out for 4 counts.
*Repeat for 5-15 minutes or longer if needed.
Working with this exercise will help you to return to a calmer disposition. You can actually get more done when you are clear and working more deliberately, than when you are frantic or rushing around. Take a hint from nature about this.
I often have hummingbirds visiting my many porch flowers. Sometimes though, their speed hinders them. They dart around so quickly that they miss the very flowers they came to feed on. The bumblebee on the other hand, methodically goes from flower to flower and plant to plant, feeding on as much nectar as possible. They even take time out for an afternoon siesta. When they wake up, they simply resume their work.
So next time you feel you don't quite have enough time to do whatever it is you are doing, take a deep breath, clear your head and remember it's time to slow down.
Those of us who are doing inner work are finding that releasing outworn patterns is imperative, because the old ways are not working any longer. Instead, we must find revelations and healings of self and life at a quicker pace than ever before. Others, who are not as self aware, may react to this phenomenon through agitation or violence.
What can we do to ease the pressures of the times we live in? The Hopis have a prophecy about our planetary dilemma. They say, "As things speed up, you slow down." You might ask, "How can you do that?" and "Is it really possible?" After all, we do live in the age of instant communications, highway cowboys, and fifty-hour work weeks.
An easy way to slow down is to simply breathe deeply, and slowly. By doing this you can begin to release your fear, that you do not have enough time to get everything finished. A great exercise you can practice anywhere and anytime is to slow your breath down:
*Breathe in for 4 counts.
*Hold your breath for 4 counts.
*Breathe out for 4 counts.
*And hold your breath out for 4 counts.
*Repeat for 5-15 minutes or longer if needed.
Working with this exercise will help you to return to a calmer disposition. You can actually get more done when you are clear and working more deliberately, than when you are frantic or rushing around. Take a hint from nature about this.
I often have hummingbirds visiting my many porch flowers. Sometimes though, their speed hinders them. They dart around so quickly that they miss the very flowers they came to feed on. The bumblebee on the other hand, methodically goes from flower to flower and plant to plant, feeding on as much nectar as possible. They even take time out for an afternoon siesta. When they wake up, they simply resume their work.
So next time you feel you don't quite have enough time to do whatever it is you are doing, take a deep breath, clear your head and remember it's time to slow down.
Lose Weight With BodyMedia Weight Management System
BodyMedia is a product of today. In the present age of information technology, everything is going digital. The fields of dieting and diets have not remained untouched and BodyMedia is one of the latest offerings. It is not a diet but a weight loss gadget. It is a high-tech gadget that, over the course of the day, keeps track of 9000 pieces of information about the wearer and keeps one regularly informed about the calories one has burned. This ensures that one stays on the right track to the much-desired goal, weight loss. It also helps to improve the lifestyle by keeping one informed about little things such as quality of their sleep.
BodyMedia consists of three different gadgets: the armband, the activity manager and the display. It gives one the power of knowledge. How restful your sleep has been, how many calories you have just intake in that pastry, how many of them you burned when you ran as your kids cycled on the pavement - all these little snippets add on and give one a more realistic look of the progress of their weight loss plan.
These advantages have made BodyMedia a sought after and in-demand piece of gadget. So now, some companies and internet sites have come up with BodyMedia coupons that help one save money while buying the innovative technology. Many sites provide these BodyMedia coupons. These sites are updated regularly, with some being updated on a daily basis. This ensures that the coupons are latest and valid. Generally, these coupons have a long validity. Some of these can be valid throughout the year to be used till 1st January, 2012. BodyMedia I FIT Weight Management System. We believe you will see that this technology takes the guesswork out of weight loss for your clients and is a very hot item today.
All these promotional coupons contain BodyMedia promotional codes. However, these BodyMedia promotional codes and coupons are not applicable for use over the counter. These can only be redeemed when the purchase is made online. Different BodyMedia promotional codes contain different offers. The deal one gets varies from coupon to coupon. Generally, the percentage discounts such as 10% off are provided. Some BodyMedia promotional codes might also get one free stuff and merchandise. Thus, to get the best deal possible, it is advised that one should do intensive and exhaustive research on the net as different sites offer different deals. Moreover, one should ensure that the coupons being offered have been tested and verified to avoid being duped later.
BodyMedia consists of three different gadgets: the armband, the activity manager and the display. It gives one the power of knowledge. How restful your sleep has been, how many calories you have just intake in that pastry, how many of them you burned when you ran as your kids cycled on the pavement - all these little snippets add on and give one a more realistic look of the progress of their weight loss plan.
These advantages have made BodyMedia a sought after and in-demand piece of gadget. So now, some companies and internet sites have come up with BodyMedia coupons that help one save money while buying the innovative technology. Many sites provide these BodyMedia coupons. These sites are updated regularly, with some being updated on a daily basis. This ensures that the coupons are latest and valid. Generally, these coupons have a long validity. Some of these can be valid throughout the year to be used till 1st January, 2012. BodyMedia I FIT Weight Management System. We believe you will see that this technology takes the guesswork out of weight loss for your clients and is a very hot item today.
All these promotional coupons contain BodyMedia promotional codes. However, these BodyMedia promotional codes and coupons are not applicable for use over the counter. These can only be redeemed when the purchase is made online. Different BodyMedia promotional codes contain different offers. The deal one gets varies from coupon to coupon. Generally, the percentage discounts such as 10% off are provided. Some BodyMedia promotional codes might also get one free stuff and merchandise. Thus, to get the best deal possible, it is advised that one should do intensive and exhaustive research on the net as different sites offer different deals. Moreover, one should ensure that the coupons being offered have been tested and verified to avoid being duped later.
How to Prepare For December 21, 2012 - Recommended Suggestions
With all the panic rumors of doomsday spreading all over the world, many people are seeking to know how to prepare for December 21, 2012. Here are some pointers that you might find useful.
Learn all there is to know about this coming disaster. The key to knowledge is research and be careful that you reading facts and not just hype. Read scientific works about the cosmic phenomena and ancient texts on doomsday prophesy. Information can be found on the internet, but be careful of those who are just out to get your credit card number. Knowing what you will be facing will give you a hint of how grave it is going to be.
Plans should be started from the preparation to the formation of a new world after the crisis is done. If you are already a member of a survival group, make this into a group effort and plan with your family or survival group. If you are organizing your own, have all the members participate in planning so that everybody has his own contribution and nobody is left out.
You will need to research on what will happen and the principles of the coming disasters the you can construct your shelter in the place you all agree is going to be safe. Research also needs to be done on the building of the shelter; how to make it resistant to all extreme conditions without falling down on its inhabitants.
The shelter must be big enough for all the people in your survival group as well as your food supplies, books, tools and utilities and other facilities such as a vegetable and fruit garden, amusement, education and waste management facility. The physical and mental well being of the survival group should be kept normal.
You have to store food that have long shelf lives and still contains their nutritional value since this is a major necessity in the preparation for doomsday. To give flavor to your food, you can keep dried spices among your food stores. You might want to have a garden in your shelter so you can have a source of fresh fruits and vegetables. If not, you can keep a collection of seeds of fruits and vegetables that you can plant once you are back outside.
Maintain the health of the group with adequate medical supplies. Before going into the shelter have everybody immunized to minimize the risk of infectious diseases that can turn into an epidemic if not controlled and if people are not immune to it. Medicinal plants can be cultivated if you have a garden to treat simple diseases like common flu, wounds and rheumatism or muscle pains.
Tools are important in the new world since what you have brought will be all you have in the new world. You will need tools for cooking, hunting, farming and building shelter to name just a few, so have as much tools that are useful as possible. Aside from tools books are all important because this will be your only source of information and education for the young ones.
These are just some tips you can follow and apply so you have an idea on how to prepare for December 21, 2012. If you want a detailed guide, 2012 ebooks like 2012 Contact can help you as well as give you all the information regarding doomsday.
Learn all there is to know about this coming disaster. The key to knowledge is research and be careful that you reading facts and not just hype. Read scientific works about the cosmic phenomena and ancient texts on doomsday prophesy. Information can be found on the internet, but be careful of those who are just out to get your credit card number. Knowing what you will be facing will give you a hint of how grave it is going to be.
Plans should be started from the preparation to the formation of a new world after the crisis is done. If you are already a member of a survival group, make this into a group effort and plan with your family or survival group. If you are organizing your own, have all the members participate in planning so that everybody has his own contribution and nobody is left out.
You will need to research on what will happen and the principles of the coming disasters the you can construct your shelter in the place you all agree is going to be safe. Research also needs to be done on the building of the shelter; how to make it resistant to all extreme conditions without falling down on its inhabitants.
The shelter must be big enough for all the people in your survival group as well as your food supplies, books, tools and utilities and other facilities such as a vegetable and fruit garden, amusement, education and waste management facility. The physical and mental well being of the survival group should be kept normal.
You have to store food that have long shelf lives and still contains their nutritional value since this is a major necessity in the preparation for doomsday. To give flavor to your food, you can keep dried spices among your food stores. You might want to have a garden in your shelter so you can have a source of fresh fruits and vegetables. If not, you can keep a collection of seeds of fruits and vegetables that you can plant once you are back outside.
Maintain the health of the group with adequate medical supplies. Before going into the shelter have everybody immunized to minimize the risk of infectious diseases that can turn into an epidemic if not controlled and if people are not immune to it. Medicinal plants can be cultivated if you have a garden to treat simple diseases like common flu, wounds and rheumatism or muscle pains.
Tools are important in the new world since what you have brought will be all you have in the new world. You will need tools for cooking, hunting, farming and building shelter to name just a few, so have as much tools that are useful as possible. Aside from tools books are all important because this will be your only source of information and education for the young ones.
These are just some tips you can follow and apply so you have an idea on how to prepare for December 21, 2012. If you want a detailed guide, 2012 ebooks like 2012 Contact can help you as well as give you all the information regarding doomsday.
The 2012 Games and Your Company - How to Bring in New Business
Here are a few thoughts for our readers, many among you UK hospitality professionals. 2012 is coming and the best time to begin your strategy for bringing in that business is now. Here are ten places we'd recommend you focus.
1. Small business partners.
Team with like-minded professionals; align your resources as well as sales and marketing budgets. Avoid overlap of services within your team. Your team should include caterers, entertainment producers, lighting, sound and AV companies, Marquee suppliers, floral decorators...the list goes on and on.
2. Consider producing events, public or private, not related directly to the official Games organisers.
The opportunities are across the board. Certainly there are going to be activities directly associated with the Games, but there is also a large market for parties and events. Do not limit yourself to the corporate world--people will want to have their own private events. In our experience, outdoor festivals, concerts and charity promotions can be quite popular.
3. Check the Official Sponsors.
These are large corporations that will more often than not have a destination management company handling their presence for them. These could be based in the UK, but many large ones could be based elsewhere. Find those companies and ensure you're on their radar for what you can offer them.
A future article will go into specific details and tips for finding them and working to align yourself with them.
4. Call on Associations.
In between the corporate and the private events we have associations. These could be charities, manufacturing or corporate associations or lobbying groups. They too will want to have an unofficial presence so they can promote themselves. Help them with ideas to bring visibility to the efforts for their cause.
5. Look to Games Venues located in other regions of the UK.
Not based in London? Well, neither are all the venues. The ones outside the city are numerous and can be an ideal market for you. Find a venue map (such as this one ) and start making your plans.
6. Present your credentials and references to the official organising committee as well as organisations such as Visit London.
It is hard to break into this circle but persistence can pay off. Again, we'll focus on tips for trying to break in with this or other official circles in a separate article.
7. Keep your costs stable and fair.
Do not give away your services, even if promised budgeted projects. Insist on at least a break even scenario. Avoid the temptation to raise your costs above the market norm.
8. Market your strengths, sell multiple services.
If you can provide a wide variety of services such as: entertainment, musicians, actors, dancers, design and technical production or theme props and staged sets, make sure you spread the word.
9. Start early.
Now is never too early. 2011 will really heat up (and be here before you know it) and you may find companies out there competing with you that are not even in existence today. Ask for the work and find out the budget goals of your perspective client. Get out ahead of the pack.
10. Keep up with the movements of the government and the organising committee.
Look for opportunities hidden in the news. This can be as simple as going through the newspaper or surfing the net with an eye for the latest information with an eye for where you and your services can be utilized.
1. Small business partners.
Team with like-minded professionals; align your resources as well as sales and marketing budgets. Avoid overlap of services within your team. Your team should include caterers, entertainment producers, lighting, sound and AV companies, Marquee suppliers, floral decorators...the list goes on and on.
2. Consider producing events, public or private, not related directly to the official Games organisers.
The opportunities are across the board. Certainly there are going to be activities directly associated with the Games, but there is also a large market for parties and events. Do not limit yourself to the corporate world--people will want to have their own private events. In our experience, outdoor festivals, concerts and charity promotions can be quite popular.
3. Check the Official Sponsors.
These are large corporations that will more often than not have a destination management company handling their presence for them. These could be based in the UK, but many large ones could be based elsewhere. Find those companies and ensure you're on their radar for what you can offer them.
A future article will go into specific details and tips for finding them and working to align yourself with them.
4. Call on Associations.
In between the corporate and the private events we have associations. These could be charities, manufacturing or corporate associations or lobbying groups. They too will want to have an unofficial presence so they can promote themselves. Help them with ideas to bring visibility to the efforts for their cause.
5. Look to Games Venues located in other regions of the UK.
Not based in London? Well, neither are all the venues. The ones outside the city are numerous and can be an ideal market for you. Find a venue map (such as this one ) and start making your plans.
6. Present your credentials and references to the official organising committee as well as organisations such as Visit London.
It is hard to break into this circle but persistence can pay off. Again, we'll focus on tips for trying to break in with this or other official circles in a separate article.
7. Keep your costs stable and fair.
Do not give away your services, even if promised budgeted projects. Insist on at least a break even scenario. Avoid the temptation to raise your costs above the market norm.
8. Market your strengths, sell multiple services.
If you can provide a wide variety of services such as: entertainment, musicians, actors, dancers, design and technical production or theme props and staged sets, make sure you spread the word.
9. Start early.
Now is never too early. 2011 will really heat up (and be here before you know it) and you may find companies out there competing with you that are not even in existence today. Ask for the work and find out the budget goals of your perspective client. Get out ahead of the pack.
10. Keep up with the movements of the government and the organising committee.
Look for opportunities hidden in the news. This can be as simple as going through the newspaper or surfing the net with an eye for the latest information with an eye for where you and your services can be utilized.
American Economy in 2012
Most government stimulus packages end this year. As of mid-2011 mortgage lending continues to be in disarray and employment, while not double-digit, is above 8%. Oh, and there's this little thing called a presidential election occurring in November of 2012. And not one of these facts will influence the sustainability of the American economy in 2012.
My thoughts on the economy:
The American economy will continue to expand with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) near 3% through 2012.
* Unemployment will remain in the 8% range as employees re-tool their skills and baby-boomers defer retirement based on the depth of this most recent recession.
* Residential housing will continue to struggle as the home-ownership rate decreases.
* Housing prices will begin to stabilize in 2013 (or later) only because population growth will begin to out-strip supply.
In 2012 stimulus is behind us and residential mortgage lending will remain tight. Federal Reserve policy does not affect employment and the presidential election is towards the end of the year. Where do we find guidance, reliable guidance about the course of the American economy?
Start with Facts, Economic Facts<
Is economics science or social science? Is it a predictor of future outcomes or just a crystal ball? In my view it is science with a layer of human psychology.
Whereas Google may employ the top technology brains in the world, it's the gaming industry that has high-powered psychologist on staff. Surprised? Who better to predict how to part the un-wary gambler from their money?
Back to economics. There is not a single large bank without a Chief Economist. Part of their job is to predict economic behavior in markets, sometime by region or country. They influence the decision-making of executives charged with guiding the investment criterion of the bank's capital and that of it's clients. Often, a single event will require these economist to modify their predictions (changes in Egypt, the BP oil spill in the gulf).
Hark! If this is science, how is it that words utilized to describe it include behavior, influence and predictions? Why not use words like outcomes, correlation and results? Because the outcomes, correlations and results are all based on behavior, influence and predictions.
Who Has Real Facts? Economic Facts
So who should we listen to? Which sooth-Sayers have standing? Following are sources of economic data that avoid providing "middle-of-the-road", data goop (data goop: information with no defining use).
Each of the following has a deep and meaningful institutional knowledge base with roots in the science of economics. These sources can assist you in building your own predictions and forecast.
Bloomberg Survey of Economist. The Survey provides a collective prediction of data points of valuable and consistent insight on the direction of the overall U.S. economy. bloomberg.com
International Monetary Fund. This world body is not without it's internal politics. But there is no doubt they provide reporting accomplished by big brains with deep knowledge and experience within their specialties.
The International Monetary Fund predicts growth in the world economy will accelerate to 4.5 percent in 2012 from 4.4 percent this year. While advanced economies will expand 2.4 percent this year, developing nations will grow 6.5 percent, driven by expansions in China and India, the IMF predicts. Bloomberg Reporters: Stephen Treloar and Josiane Kremer, May 13, 2011.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. This agency is more government issue than U.S. greenbacks. They are tattooed with facts about the American labor market. I believe them to be reliable reporters providing quality information about the U.S. economy. bls.gov
Certainly, there are other sources with quality information. May I suggest starting here towards building your own list of quality sources of economic information.
Multifamily Insight is dedicated to assisting current and future multifamily property owners, operators and investors in executing specific tasks that allow multifamily assets to operate at their highest level of efficiency. We discuss real world issues in multifamily management and acquisitions. This website is intended to be informational only and does not provide legal, financial or accounting advice. Seek professional counsel. We discuss best practices in multifamily management and methods related to how to buy apartment complexes. Our focus is sharing strategies and tactics that can be implemented and measured.
My thoughts on the economy:
The American economy will continue to expand with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) near 3% through 2012.
* Unemployment will remain in the 8% range as employees re-tool their skills and baby-boomers defer retirement based on the depth of this most recent recession.
* Residential housing will continue to struggle as the home-ownership rate decreases.
* Housing prices will begin to stabilize in 2013 (or later) only because population growth will begin to out-strip supply.
In 2012 stimulus is behind us and residential mortgage lending will remain tight. Federal Reserve policy does not affect employment and the presidential election is towards the end of the year. Where do we find guidance, reliable guidance about the course of the American economy?
Start with Facts, Economic Facts<
Is economics science or social science? Is it a predictor of future outcomes or just a crystal ball? In my view it is science with a layer of human psychology.
Whereas Google may employ the top technology brains in the world, it's the gaming industry that has high-powered psychologist on staff. Surprised? Who better to predict how to part the un-wary gambler from their money?
Back to economics. There is not a single large bank without a Chief Economist. Part of their job is to predict economic behavior in markets, sometime by region or country. They influence the decision-making of executives charged with guiding the investment criterion of the bank's capital and that of it's clients. Often, a single event will require these economist to modify their predictions (changes in Egypt, the BP oil spill in the gulf).
Hark! If this is science, how is it that words utilized to describe it include behavior, influence and predictions? Why not use words like outcomes, correlation and results? Because the outcomes, correlations and results are all based on behavior, influence and predictions.
Who Has Real Facts? Economic Facts
So who should we listen to? Which sooth-Sayers have standing? Following are sources of economic data that avoid providing "middle-of-the-road", data goop (data goop: information with no defining use).
Each of the following has a deep and meaningful institutional knowledge base with roots in the science of economics. These sources can assist you in building your own predictions and forecast.
Bloomberg Survey of Economist. The Survey provides a collective prediction of data points of valuable and consistent insight on the direction of the overall U.S. economy. bloomberg.com
International Monetary Fund. This world body is not without it's internal politics. But there is no doubt they provide reporting accomplished by big brains with deep knowledge and experience within their specialties.
The International Monetary Fund predicts growth in the world economy will accelerate to 4.5 percent in 2012 from 4.4 percent this year. While advanced economies will expand 2.4 percent this year, developing nations will grow 6.5 percent, driven by expansions in China and India, the IMF predicts. Bloomberg Reporters: Stephen Treloar and Josiane Kremer, May 13, 2011.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. This agency is more government issue than U.S. greenbacks. They are tattooed with facts about the American labor market. I believe them to be reliable reporters providing quality information about the U.S. economy. bls.gov
Certainly, there are other sources with quality information. May I suggest starting here towards building your own list of quality sources of economic information.
Multifamily Insight is dedicated to assisting current and future multifamily property owners, operators and investors in executing specific tasks that allow multifamily assets to operate at their highest level of efficiency. We discuss real world issues in multifamily management and acquisitions. This website is intended to be informational only and does not provide legal, financial or accounting advice. Seek professional counsel. We discuss best practices in multifamily management and methods related to how to buy apartment complexes. Our focus is sharing strategies and tactics that can be implemented and measured.
Short Strategy Statements - Learn the 5 Key Elements of This Powerful Management Tool
The Five Key Elements of a Short Strategy Statement
My last article ended by defining strategy as "a beacon that specifies a goal, a time frame for achieving that goal, the context in which the the goal will be reached, and the company's unique approach that guarantees its success." Let's look at the five key elements in this definition:
1. Note that the word "goal" is singular. Strategy is designed to focus the entire organization around a single focus. Do one thing and do it exceedingly well. Sharply defined strategy cuts like a well-honed knife; a strategy with multiple goals cuts like a marshmallow.
2. Stating a time frame is vital. It provides impetus and motivation. Combined with a clearly stated goal, the time frame becomes the first of the key performance indicators that is necessary to ensure the successful implementation of strategy.
3. The context describes the specific competitive arena in which the company will operate. Be crystal clear on this. Don't just say "We're going to grow to a 10 restaurant chain by 2012″. Say "We're going to grow to a chain of 10 family-oriented, sit-down, full-service, Italian restaurants in southern Oregon by 2012″.
4. The most important part of strategy is defining what makes you different from your competitors. Why would somebody choose to eat in your Italian restaurant rather than the one next door? Is it the food? The locations? The physical design? The live Italian music? It must be unique and it must be something that your competitors can't replicate.
5. Finally, strategy is "a beacon". Once a strategy has been created it needs to be simply stated and widely distributed within your company in order to achieve its full potential. One of the best ways of doing this is to reduce your strategy to a single sentence.
Putting It Into Practice
With this in mind, here's another example of a one-sentence strategy statement:
Acme will add 35,000 net new customers by December 31, 2014 by offering premium, web-based, price comparison software to mid-sized,English-speaking North American commercial construction companies using a "high touch" sales and support approach.
Can you pick out the goal, time frame and context? How would Acme have guaranteed the uniqueness of its approach?
Short Strategy Statements Align The Company's Activities
Condensing their strategy into a single sentence means that it can now be easily communicated to everyone in their organization. This immediately provides a framework that helps align their entire staff. It saves staff time and energy by pre-empting or easily answering many of the little questions that arise each day:
* "Can I attend the European trade show to see what their market is like?"
* "Will we bundle hardware with our offering?"
* "When will our Spanish version be ready?"
* "Will we match our competitor's price?"
* "The residential construction association called. Should I do a presentation for them?"
Their strategy statement will also influence the larger decisions such as hiring, product development, sales approach, IT deployment, office development - in fact, every decision can be shaped by this one 35-word sentence.
A single sentence strategy statement is an incredibly powerful tool that helps management align the entire workforce. Can you write your firm's strategy in a single sentence?
My last article ended by defining strategy as "a beacon that specifies a goal, a time frame for achieving that goal, the context in which the the goal will be reached, and the company's unique approach that guarantees its success." Let's look at the five key elements in this definition:
1. Note that the word "goal" is singular. Strategy is designed to focus the entire organization around a single focus. Do one thing and do it exceedingly well. Sharply defined strategy cuts like a well-honed knife; a strategy with multiple goals cuts like a marshmallow.
2. Stating a time frame is vital. It provides impetus and motivation. Combined with a clearly stated goal, the time frame becomes the first of the key performance indicators that is necessary to ensure the successful implementation of strategy.
3. The context describes the specific competitive arena in which the company will operate. Be crystal clear on this. Don't just say "We're going to grow to a 10 restaurant chain by 2012″. Say "We're going to grow to a chain of 10 family-oriented, sit-down, full-service, Italian restaurants in southern Oregon by 2012″.
4. The most important part of strategy is defining what makes you different from your competitors. Why would somebody choose to eat in your Italian restaurant rather than the one next door? Is it the food? The locations? The physical design? The live Italian music? It must be unique and it must be something that your competitors can't replicate.
5. Finally, strategy is "a beacon". Once a strategy has been created it needs to be simply stated and widely distributed within your company in order to achieve its full potential. One of the best ways of doing this is to reduce your strategy to a single sentence.
Putting It Into Practice
With this in mind, here's another example of a one-sentence strategy statement:
Acme will add 35,000 net new customers by December 31, 2014 by offering premium, web-based, price comparison software to mid-sized,English-speaking North American commercial construction companies using a "high touch" sales and support approach.
Can you pick out the goal, time frame and context? How would Acme have guaranteed the uniqueness of its approach?
Short Strategy Statements Align The Company's Activities
Condensing their strategy into a single sentence means that it can now be easily communicated to everyone in their organization. This immediately provides a framework that helps align their entire staff. It saves staff time and energy by pre-empting or easily answering many of the little questions that arise each day:
* "Can I attend the European trade show to see what their market is like?"
* "Will we bundle hardware with our offering?"
* "When will our Spanish version be ready?"
* "Will we match our competitor's price?"
* "The residential construction association called. Should I do a presentation for them?"
Their strategy statement will also influence the larger decisions such as hiring, product development, sales approach, IT deployment, office development - in fact, every decision can be shaped by this one 35-word sentence.
A single sentence strategy statement is an incredibly powerful tool that helps management align the entire workforce. Can you write your firm's strategy in a single sentence?
Employers - Act Now to Prepare for NEST Pension Changes From October 2012
The new state sponsored employment-based pension arrangement is called NEST. This is scheduled to start rolling out to workplaces from October 2012. Therefore, businesses should start to plan now for this event, since it will definitely affect you at some point over the next few years.
The Government estimates that around seven million people are not saving enough to meet their retirement aspirations. Therefore the Government is making changes to the pension system which, as an employer, will affect you too.
What do the changes mean for employers?
From 2012, employers will be required to automatically enrol all eligible employees into either the National Employers Savings Scheme (NEST) or an alternative 'qualifying' workplace pension and to make minimum contributions into it.
The process will be staged, dependent on employee head count, from 1st October 2012 to 1st September 2016, with large employers being the first to have to take action.
Who will need to be automatically enrolled?
All jobholders working in Great Britain aged at least 22 years old who have not yet reached State Pension age and are earning more than £7,475*a year (the income tax threshold at 2011) will need to be automatically enrolled into either an employer's workplace pension or NEST.
*2012 figure to be confirmed.
What is the minimum contribution employers must pay?
Under NEST, employers will need to contribute 3% on a band of earnings for eligible jobholders - between the Personal Allowance in 2012 and £33,540 a year **
** Based on 2006 levels, 2012 figure to be confirmed.
This will be supplemented by the jobholder's own contribution (which will end up at 3%) and around 1% in the form of tax relief. Overall contributions will total at least 8% for this type of scheme.
NEST will carry an annual management charge of 0.3% per annum, which is extremely low for this type of scheme, mainly due to the expected size of the scheme.
Who can opt in?
Jobholders aged between 16 and 22, and between State Pension age and 75 who are earning more than the above figure, will be able to opt in to their employer's workplace pension and will qualify for the compulsory minimum employer contributions. Those earning below the above figure may opt in to their employer's workplace pension. Their employer will not be required to make a contribution, but may do so if they wish.
Which scheme can employers use?
Employers will be able to choose the pension scheme(s) they want to use provided the scheme(s) meet certain quality criteria (including any current scheme). These may be based on contributions or benefits people receive.
To keep the certification process as simple as possible, any of the following should prove to be 'acceptable'.
Money Purchase Schemes (existing):
- A minimum nine per cent contribution of pensionable pay (including a four per cent employer contribution) or;
- A minimum eight per cent contribution of pensionable pay (with a three per cent employer contribution) provided pensionable pay constitutes at least 85 per cent of the total pay bill or;
- A minimum seven per cent contribution of pensionable pay (three per cent employer contribution), provided that the total pay bill is pensionable
Final Salary Schemes (existing):
In order to qualify an existing final salary scheme will need to have a contracting out certificate in force as this is taken in evidence that the scheme already meets the 'reference scheme test' standard. This test requires for schemes to commence a pension at age 65, payable for life and must be:
a) 1/120th of average qualifying earnings in the last 3 tax years, preceding the end of pensionable service multiplied by
b) The number of years of pensionable service up to a maximum of 10.
When do the changes start?
The changes are planned to start from 2012. The plan is to stage in automatic enrolment over a period of time, starting with large employers, medium and then small.
To help employers adjust gradually, the plan is to phase in the employer contribution levels - starting at 1% and then moving to 2% and finally 3%. The jobholders' contributions will also be phased in the same period.
How will I know what to do in the future?
DWP, The Pensions Regulator (TPR) and the Personal Accounts Delivery Authority (PADA) are working to ensure that information will be available to help prepare employers and individuals for the changes.
TPR will be writing individually to all employers at around 12 months and again at 3 months in advance of their automatic enrolment start date, to inform you when you need to take action and what you need to do to comply.
What should I be doing now?
As an employer, you should ensure you understand the basic information on the changes as outlined in this article. A review of existing arrangements should also be undertaken sooner rather than later.
For some firms these changes could be in less than 1 pay review's time!
A review is also important as The Pensions Regulator, who will oversee the implementation process, does carry the power to levy fines of up to £50,000 on employers who do not take action.
The Government estimates that around seven million people are not saving enough to meet their retirement aspirations. Therefore the Government is making changes to the pension system which, as an employer, will affect you too.
What do the changes mean for employers?
From 2012, employers will be required to automatically enrol all eligible employees into either the National Employers Savings Scheme (NEST) or an alternative 'qualifying' workplace pension and to make minimum contributions into it.
The process will be staged, dependent on employee head count, from 1st October 2012 to 1st September 2016, with large employers being the first to have to take action.
Who will need to be automatically enrolled?
All jobholders working in Great Britain aged at least 22 years old who have not yet reached State Pension age and are earning more than £7,475*a year (the income tax threshold at 2011) will need to be automatically enrolled into either an employer's workplace pension or NEST.
*2012 figure to be confirmed.
What is the minimum contribution employers must pay?
Under NEST, employers will need to contribute 3% on a band of earnings for eligible jobholders - between the Personal Allowance in 2012 and £33,540 a year **
** Based on 2006 levels, 2012 figure to be confirmed.
This will be supplemented by the jobholder's own contribution (which will end up at 3%) and around 1% in the form of tax relief. Overall contributions will total at least 8% for this type of scheme.
NEST will carry an annual management charge of 0.3% per annum, which is extremely low for this type of scheme, mainly due to the expected size of the scheme.
Who can opt in?
Jobholders aged between 16 and 22, and between State Pension age and 75 who are earning more than the above figure, will be able to opt in to their employer's workplace pension and will qualify for the compulsory minimum employer contributions. Those earning below the above figure may opt in to their employer's workplace pension. Their employer will not be required to make a contribution, but may do so if they wish.
Which scheme can employers use?
Employers will be able to choose the pension scheme(s) they want to use provided the scheme(s) meet certain quality criteria (including any current scheme). These may be based on contributions or benefits people receive.
To keep the certification process as simple as possible, any of the following should prove to be 'acceptable'.
Money Purchase Schemes (existing):
- A minimum nine per cent contribution of pensionable pay (including a four per cent employer contribution) or;
- A minimum eight per cent contribution of pensionable pay (with a three per cent employer contribution) provided pensionable pay constitutes at least 85 per cent of the total pay bill or;
- A minimum seven per cent contribution of pensionable pay (three per cent employer contribution), provided that the total pay bill is pensionable
Final Salary Schemes (existing):
In order to qualify an existing final salary scheme will need to have a contracting out certificate in force as this is taken in evidence that the scheme already meets the 'reference scheme test' standard. This test requires for schemes to commence a pension at age 65, payable for life and must be:
a) 1/120th of average qualifying earnings in the last 3 tax years, preceding the end of pensionable service multiplied by
b) The number of years of pensionable service up to a maximum of 10.
When do the changes start?
The changes are planned to start from 2012. The plan is to stage in automatic enrolment over a period of time, starting with large employers, medium and then small.
To help employers adjust gradually, the plan is to phase in the employer contribution levels - starting at 1% and then moving to 2% and finally 3%. The jobholders' contributions will also be phased in the same period.
How will I know what to do in the future?
DWP, The Pensions Regulator (TPR) and the Personal Accounts Delivery Authority (PADA) are working to ensure that information will be available to help prepare employers and individuals for the changes.
TPR will be writing individually to all employers at around 12 months and again at 3 months in advance of their automatic enrolment start date, to inform you when you need to take action and what you need to do to comply.
What should I be doing now?
As an employer, you should ensure you understand the basic information on the changes as outlined in this article. A review of existing arrangements should also be undertaken sooner rather than later.
For some firms these changes could be in less than 1 pay review's time!
A review is also important as The Pensions Regulator, who will oversee the implementation process, does carry the power to levy fines of up to £50,000 on employers who do not take action.
Is There Any Truth To The 2012 Doomsday
As the number of earthquakes, floods and hurricanes increases so does the awareness of 2012 doomsday prophecies. Solar flares, near earth objects passing within a moons distance of the planet and wide ranging temperature fluctuations have many people asking, "Is there any truth to the 2012 doomsday predictions?"
The Mayan Predictions
According to Mayan legends, the end of this cycle, interpreted by modern linguists as the "world," will occur on December 21, 2012, commonly called 2012 Doomsday. On this winter solstice day, the earth and moon will be in alignment with each other in the middle of the Milky Way. Scientists confirm that this unique astronomical event only occurs about once every 26,000 years. The Mayan calendar is very accurate. It is based on numerical cycles and the end of the current cycle will occur on December 21, 2012. The Mayans themselves interpret their legend differently than other cultures. The Mayans people do not believe that the end of the world as we know it, teotwawki, will occur. Their belief is that another calendar would have been created to replace this one ushering in a new cycle. However, this calendar was never created because of the arrival of the Europeans, which led to the demise of their culture.
Volcanism
There has been an increase in the occurrences of volcanic activity in the past couple of years. Even volcano's which have been dormant for centuries are erupting. The Pacific Oceans Ring of Fire has become quite active. Small underwater eruptions, and larger, unexpected activity of volcanoes on many of the island nations, including the Philippines, have scientists scrambling to provide answers.
Earthquakes
Many areas are prone to earthquake activity. The interesting part of 2012 Doomsday predictions is that they include global earthquake activity. In the past few years, earthquakes have occurred in regions that were considered earthquake free zones. New fault lines are being discovered and old ones are changing. While the magnitude of recent earthquakes has not been much higher than usual, the aftermath of unexpected quakes has proven to be difficult. The Chilean 8.8 magnitude earthquake on February 27, 2010 moved an entire city ten feet and shortened an earth day by a few milliseconds. Now more than ever before, being prepared and taking the necessary steps to provide for yourself and family during and after an earthquake is important.
Famine and Plague
With extreme weather comes poor harvests and the potential for outbreaks of deadly diseases such as cholera and typhoid. Genetic modification of food crops has also been proven to allow genetic mutations of some insects allowing them to be less susceptible to poisons. Drought causes more difficulties as poor land management and over farming allows precious topsoil to be blown away the wind whips across rain-starved ground. Fire becomes another factor in the famine equation. As forests, fields and prairies dry up lightening and accidental ignition of the dry grasses cause wildfires. The smoke from these fires rises up into the atmosphere. When smoke accumulates in the atmosphere it causes the warming power of the sun to be bounced back into space. This can cause cooling in areas that are not used to such temperatures. These types of disturbances allow crop and human diseases to emerge and crop failures that lead to famine in areas that were once rich food crop regions.
No one can say for certain if the 2012 doomsday predictions will come to pass. Some believe that the predictions signal a change in the earth's surface while others believe it will be the end of human civilization. Preparing for the worst, while hoping for the best, is a good alternative to doing nothing to help ensure your survival during any type of emergency.
The Mayan Predictions
According to Mayan legends, the end of this cycle, interpreted by modern linguists as the "world," will occur on December 21, 2012, commonly called 2012 Doomsday. On this winter solstice day, the earth and moon will be in alignment with each other in the middle of the Milky Way. Scientists confirm that this unique astronomical event only occurs about once every 26,000 years. The Mayan calendar is very accurate. It is based on numerical cycles and the end of the current cycle will occur on December 21, 2012. The Mayans themselves interpret their legend differently than other cultures. The Mayans people do not believe that the end of the world as we know it, teotwawki, will occur. Their belief is that another calendar would have been created to replace this one ushering in a new cycle. However, this calendar was never created because of the arrival of the Europeans, which led to the demise of their culture.
Volcanism
There has been an increase in the occurrences of volcanic activity in the past couple of years. Even volcano's which have been dormant for centuries are erupting. The Pacific Oceans Ring of Fire has become quite active. Small underwater eruptions, and larger, unexpected activity of volcanoes on many of the island nations, including the Philippines, have scientists scrambling to provide answers.
Earthquakes
Many areas are prone to earthquake activity. The interesting part of 2012 Doomsday predictions is that they include global earthquake activity. In the past few years, earthquakes have occurred in regions that were considered earthquake free zones. New fault lines are being discovered and old ones are changing. While the magnitude of recent earthquakes has not been much higher than usual, the aftermath of unexpected quakes has proven to be difficult. The Chilean 8.8 magnitude earthquake on February 27, 2010 moved an entire city ten feet and shortened an earth day by a few milliseconds. Now more than ever before, being prepared and taking the necessary steps to provide for yourself and family during and after an earthquake is important.
Famine and Plague
With extreme weather comes poor harvests and the potential for outbreaks of deadly diseases such as cholera and typhoid. Genetic modification of food crops has also been proven to allow genetic mutations of some insects allowing them to be less susceptible to poisons. Drought causes more difficulties as poor land management and over farming allows precious topsoil to be blown away the wind whips across rain-starved ground. Fire becomes another factor in the famine equation. As forests, fields and prairies dry up lightening and accidental ignition of the dry grasses cause wildfires. The smoke from these fires rises up into the atmosphere. When smoke accumulates in the atmosphere it causes the warming power of the sun to be bounced back into space. This can cause cooling in areas that are not used to such temperatures. These types of disturbances allow crop and human diseases to emerge and crop failures that lead to famine in areas that were once rich food crop regions.
No one can say for certain if the 2012 doomsday predictions will come to pass. Some believe that the predictions signal a change in the earth's surface while others believe it will be the end of human civilization. Preparing for the worst, while hoping for the best, is a good alternative to doing nothing to help ensure your survival during any type of emergency.
Can You Invest Money and Get Good Investment Management Cheap?
For 2011, 2012, 2013... yes, you CAN invest money and get good investment management quite cheap. Some rich folks pay over 2% a year plus 20% of profits to invest money with the likes of hedge funds, with no performance guarantees. On the other hand, average investors can invest and get good investment management at a yearly cost of less than 25 cents per $100 they invest while enjoying other advantages in 2011 and beyond.
Some of the rich and famous have paid handsomely for investment management and ended up broke. These are extreme cases where people trusted someone blindly, which is never a good idea when you invest money. If you invest in the right places you have government regulation and visibility on your side. Plus, there should be no surprises on the performance front; with downright inexpensive and good investment management working for you. Welcome to the world of mutual funds, specifically no-load INDEX funds.
Here's how not to invest for 2011 and beyond: give a money manager total freedom to invest your money wherever he sees opportunity. No investment management outfit is good enough to win consistently speculating in the stocks vs. bonds vs. currencies, commodities or whatever game. You're better off if you invest money in a variety of mutual funds and diversify both within and across the asset classes: stocks, bonds, money market securities and specialty areas like gold and real estate. But be careful here too, because in ACTVELY managed funds you could pay 2% a year and still not get good investment management.
Most actively managed funds fail to beat their benchmarks (which are indexes), at least in part due to the expenses that are taken from fund assets to pay for things like active management. Plus, fund performance can be full of surprises from year to year as management tries to beat their benchmark, an index. Index funds don't pay big bucks to money managers to play this game. They simply track or duplicate the index. Let's use stocks as an example, and say that you want to invest money in a diversified portfolio of the largest best-known stocks in America, with no surprises.
Invest in an S&P 500 index fund, and you automatically own a very small piece of 500 of America's biggest and best companies. The S&P 500 Index is in the news every business day, and the names of the 500 companies are public knowledge and can easily be found on the internet. This index is also the benchmark that most stock fund managers try, and usually fail, to beat on a consistent basis. Is this your idea of good investment management? I'd rather just invest money in the index fund for 2011 and beyond and know that I'll have no big surprises in good years or bad.
Don't overlook the cost when you invest money. Index funds are not an issue in money market funds, where the major fund companies have kept costs low just to compete for investor dollars. But for equity (stock) and bond funds, where they make their profits, you can pay 10 times as much when you invest in actively managed funds vs. index funds, and still not get good consistent investment management. Do you need to look far and wide to find a place where you can invest in stock and bond index funds at a cost of less than 25 cents per year for every $100 you have invested?
No, the two largest fund companies in America can easily be found on the internet: Vanguard and Fidelity. They both cater to average investors, and will more than likely continue to offer funds where you can invest money without paying sales charges (in addition to expenses) in 2011, 2012 and beyond. I suggest you check out their low-cost index funds. Or would you rather speculate and pay 10 times as much for yearly expenses elsewhere, hoping to get really good active investment management - with no unpleasant surprises?
A retired financial planner, James Leitz has an MBA (finance) and 35 years of investing experience. For 20 years he advised individual investors, working directly with them helping them to reach their financial goals.
Some of the rich and famous have paid handsomely for investment management and ended up broke. These are extreme cases where people trusted someone blindly, which is never a good idea when you invest money. If you invest in the right places you have government regulation and visibility on your side. Plus, there should be no surprises on the performance front; with downright inexpensive and good investment management working for you. Welcome to the world of mutual funds, specifically no-load INDEX funds.
Here's how not to invest for 2011 and beyond: give a money manager total freedom to invest your money wherever he sees opportunity. No investment management outfit is good enough to win consistently speculating in the stocks vs. bonds vs. currencies, commodities or whatever game. You're better off if you invest money in a variety of mutual funds and diversify both within and across the asset classes: stocks, bonds, money market securities and specialty areas like gold and real estate. But be careful here too, because in ACTVELY managed funds you could pay 2% a year and still not get good investment management.
Most actively managed funds fail to beat their benchmarks (which are indexes), at least in part due to the expenses that are taken from fund assets to pay for things like active management. Plus, fund performance can be full of surprises from year to year as management tries to beat their benchmark, an index. Index funds don't pay big bucks to money managers to play this game. They simply track or duplicate the index. Let's use stocks as an example, and say that you want to invest money in a diversified portfolio of the largest best-known stocks in America, with no surprises.
Invest in an S&P 500 index fund, and you automatically own a very small piece of 500 of America's biggest and best companies. The S&P 500 Index is in the news every business day, and the names of the 500 companies are public knowledge and can easily be found on the internet. This index is also the benchmark that most stock fund managers try, and usually fail, to beat on a consistent basis. Is this your idea of good investment management? I'd rather just invest money in the index fund for 2011 and beyond and know that I'll have no big surprises in good years or bad.
Don't overlook the cost when you invest money. Index funds are not an issue in money market funds, where the major fund companies have kept costs low just to compete for investor dollars. But for equity (stock) and bond funds, where they make their profits, you can pay 10 times as much when you invest in actively managed funds vs. index funds, and still not get good consistent investment management. Do you need to look far and wide to find a place where you can invest in stock and bond index funds at a cost of less than 25 cents per year for every $100 you have invested?
No, the two largest fund companies in America can easily be found on the internet: Vanguard and Fidelity. They both cater to average investors, and will more than likely continue to offer funds where you can invest money without paying sales charges (in addition to expenses) in 2011, 2012 and beyond. I suggest you check out their low-cost index funds. Or would you rather speculate and pay 10 times as much for yearly expenses elsewhere, hoping to get really good active investment management - with no unpleasant surprises?
A retired financial planner, James Leitz has an MBA (finance) and 35 years of investing experience. For 20 years he advised individual investors, working directly with them helping them to reach their financial goals.
2012 - The Psychology of Living Underground - Community, Social Interaction & Quality of Life
Community Social Interaction
After a natural disaster, and while living underground in a survival mode, successful social interaction can be achieved by putting together a plan that recognizes the need to address any issues that may arise during daily activities. In many instances, the perception that capable management has been put in place can go a long way in building a level of confidence that provides peace of mind.
It is this level of confidence that supports such successful social interaction, which level is promoted and supported by unquestionable evidence that someone has done the organizational thinking and put in place a strategy and tactical plans and can execute them methodically in times of need.
Any strategy for survival through social interaction should start with a management team, a team in control when someone calls a subterranean 911. One can envision a team made of the following 1st response members:
- Site Coordinator (Assistant Site Coordinator)
- Equipment Manager
- Signage Manager
- Notification Manager
- Field Manager (Assistant Managers)
- Social worker (overseer-psychologist)
- Health care provider
Important consideration should be given towards the fact that, when living underground in a space-limiting facility people interact in groups, hence they can very easily become "victims of group-thinking". In such cases they follow the group and the group's mentality, which can be both beneficial and/or detrimental towards finding reasonable solutions to complex problems.
An important factor in addressing group-like issues is recognizing that every effort consumes energy, hence energy has to be channeled wisely in activities that benefit the mind and body. Hence issues, such as general fatigue, insomnia, etc., may be successfully 'treated" with regularly programmed exercises, work-chores, etc. Video games, books, conferences, talks, can be additional activities to maintain one's mental and physical stability.
Issues of mild-to-severe health conditions, such as headaches, cardiac arrest, etc., need to be addressed by health care professionals (or 1st aid trained personnel), hence the need to provide assurance (confidence) by including the appropriate mix of expertise in every underground facility.
Quality of Life Balance
Quality of life scales have been widely developed and are currently used in the medical field to support the clinical benefit of medicines. In general, they are scales (questionnaires) that measure physical and mental components of human interaction/response, which response has been induced by a chemical input, such as a drug.
In the case of living underground, the chemical precursor (input) is the environment itself, the limited space, the lack of sunlight and all the things a human being is accustomed to during normal daily living.
There is no doubt that proper calorimetric energy intake is a necessary ingredient to achieve a balanced quality of life level. Proper nutrition will supply/substitute the energy consumed during the above mentioned regularly scheduled exercises and other activities. The basic idea is to attempt to reproduce one's activities above ground, underground, to the nearest possible level, and do it safely within the given confined space.
It is highly recommended that a medical provider is expected to be present in every underground facility (bunker), and would be consulted in order to achieve the appropriate energy intake/consumption; at the same time, quality of life scales can be utilized to ensure the proper physical and mental balance is maintained consistently through out the stay.
After a natural disaster, and while living underground in a survival mode, successful social interaction can be achieved by putting together a plan that recognizes the need to address any issues that may arise during daily activities. In many instances, the perception that capable management has been put in place can go a long way in building a level of confidence that provides peace of mind.
It is this level of confidence that supports such successful social interaction, which level is promoted and supported by unquestionable evidence that someone has done the organizational thinking and put in place a strategy and tactical plans and can execute them methodically in times of need.
Any strategy for survival through social interaction should start with a management team, a team in control when someone calls a subterranean 911. One can envision a team made of the following 1st response members:
- Site Coordinator (Assistant Site Coordinator)
- Equipment Manager
- Signage Manager
- Notification Manager
- Field Manager (Assistant Managers)
- Social worker (overseer-psychologist)
- Health care provider
Important consideration should be given towards the fact that, when living underground in a space-limiting facility people interact in groups, hence they can very easily become "victims of group-thinking". In such cases they follow the group and the group's mentality, which can be both beneficial and/or detrimental towards finding reasonable solutions to complex problems.
An important factor in addressing group-like issues is recognizing that every effort consumes energy, hence energy has to be channeled wisely in activities that benefit the mind and body. Hence issues, such as general fatigue, insomnia, etc., may be successfully 'treated" with regularly programmed exercises, work-chores, etc. Video games, books, conferences, talks, can be additional activities to maintain one's mental and physical stability.
Issues of mild-to-severe health conditions, such as headaches, cardiac arrest, etc., need to be addressed by health care professionals (or 1st aid trained personnel), hence the need to provide assurance (confidence) by including the appropriate mix of expertise in every underground facility.
Quality of Life Balance
Quality of life scales have been widely developed and are currently used in the medical field to support the clinical benefit of medicines. In general, they are scales (questionnaires) that measure physical and mental components of human interaction/response, which response has been induced by a chemical input, such as a drug.
In the case of living underground, the chemical precursor (input) is the environment itself, the limited space, the lack of sunlight and all the things a human being is accustomed to during normal daily living.
There is no doubt that proper calorimetric energy intake is a necessary ingredient to achieve a balanced quality of life level. Proper nutrition will supply/substitute the energy consumed during the above mentioned regularly scheduled exercises and other activities. The basic idea is to attempt to reproduce one's activities above ground, underground, to the nearest possible level, and do it safely within the given confined space.
It is highly recommended that a medical provider is expected to be present in every underground facility (bunker), and would be consulted in order to achieve the appropriate energy intake/consumption; at the same time, quality of life scales can be utilized to ensure the proper physical and mental balance is maintained consistently through out the stay.
Best Mutual Fund Investment Strategy For 2011 and 2012
For most people the best mutual fund investment and the best investment strategy for 2011 and 2012 can be found in a single package, which comes complete with both fund and strategy. Before you invest money, here's how to find the best fund with a strategy that fits you.
People invest money in a mutual fund because these investment packages offer professional management, each fund with its own investment strategy. The problem is that even the best fund in the stock or bond arena can get casual investors into trouble if they just buy, hold, and ignore it. The same stock (equity) fund that doubled in value between early 2009 and 2011 could well lose half its value if 2011 and/or 2012 turn out to be bad years for the stock market. History has proven that most people invest money without a sound investment strategy. They simply buy, hold and ignore.
Remember this: the normal investment strategy for a stock fund is to invest about 98% of the portfolio in stocks. The same is true in the bond department. The best investment strategy for most people is to invest money in a variety of both stocks and bonds, with some money tucked away earning interest with high safety. If you don't have the time or expertise necessary to invest money and stay on top of all three areas, what's your best mutual fund to invest money in?
The best fund for most folks falls into a category called BALANCED, ASSET ALLOCATION, or TARGET RETIREMENT because the investment strategy here is to invest money in all three areas, while keeping the investor portfolio balanced (ratio of stocks to bonds) throughout the years. The TARGET types take investment strategy one step further by reducing risk over time to adjust for the fact that the investor is growing older. In other words, all in one package you get the best mutual fund complete with the best investment strategy for 2011, 2012 and beyond. You can simply buy and hold, and let management do the rest.
Now, let's get more specific, using target retirement funds as our example. Investment strategy and portfolio asset allocation is usually described as CONSERVATIVE, MODERATE, or AGGRESSIVE. The higher the target number, the more aggressive (risky) a target fund is - meaning a higher allocation to stocks vs. bonds and safer investments. For example, a Target 2000 might be labeled as conservative with 20% of the portfolio in stocks, while a Target 2035 labeled as moderate could have 80% invested in stocks. Look at the asset allocation percentages before you invest money! A target fund with a target number higher than 2040 can have 90% of assets invested in stocks.
With all of the uncertainty surrounding 2011 and 2012... including high unemployment, a sluggish economy, and the threat of higher inflation... many people need a more conservative fund in order to sleep at night. If you can relate to this the best mutual fund investment for you might be a Target 2000 with about 20% of its portfolio in stocks, 35% in bonds and 40% in safer areas that pay interest. Or, you might want to invest money in a Target 2010 with about 50% in stocks and most of the rest in bonds.
You can make the best of it in 2011, 2012 and beyond if you do a little homework before you invest money. Go to websites like Fidelity and Vanguard, the two largest mutual fund companies, to get a handle on the best mutual fund that fits your risk profile. If you want to just invest money and hold on, your best mutual fund investment is some form of balanced fund where the fund company takes care of the investment strategy for you.
People invest money in a mutual fund because these investment packages offer professional management, each fund with its own investment strategy. The problem is that even the best fund in the stock or bond arena can get casual investors into trouble if they just buy, hold, and ignore it. The same stock (equity) fund that doubled in value between early 2009 and 2011 could well lose half its value if 2011 and/or 2012 turn out to be bad years for the stock market. History has proven that most people invest money without a sound investment strategy. They simply buy, hold and ignore.
Remember this: the normal investment strategy for a stock fund is to invest about 98% of the portfolio in stocks. The same is true in the bond department. The best investment strategy for most people is to invest money in a variety of both stocks and bonds, with some money tucked away earning interest with high safety. If you don't have the time or expertise necessary to invest money and stay on top of all three areas, what's your best mutual fund to invest money in?
The best fund for most folks falls into a category called BALANCED, ASSET ALLOCATION, or TARGET RETIREMENT because the investment strategy here is to invest money in all three areas, while keeping the investor portfolio balanced (ratio of stocks to bonds) throughout the years. The TARGET types take investment strategy one step further by reducing risk over time to adjust for the fact that the investor is growing older. In other words, all in one package you get the best mutual fund complete with the best investment strategy for 2011, 2012 and beyond. You can simply buy and hold, and let management do the rest.
Now, let's get more specific, using target retirement funds as our example. Investment strategy and portfolio asset allocation is usually described as CONSERVATIVE, MODERATE, or AGGRESSIVE. The higher the target number, the more aggressive (risky) a target fund is - meaning a higher allocation to stocks vs. bonds and safer investments. For example, a Target 2000 might be labeled as conservative with 20% of the portfolio in stocks, while a Target 2035 labeled as moderate could have 80% invested in stocks. Look at the asset allocation percentages before you invest money! A target fund with a target number higher than 2040 can have 90% of assets invested in stocks.
With all of the uncertainty surrounding 2011 and 2012... including high unemployment, a sluggish economy, and the threat of higher inflation... many people need a more conservative fund in order to sleep at night. If you can relate to this the best mutual fund investment for you might be a Target 2000 with about 20% of its portfolio in stocks, 35% in bonds and 40% in safer areas that pay interest. Or, you might want to invest money in a Target 2010 with about 50% in stocks and most of the rest in bonds.
You can make the best of it in 2011, 2012 and beyond if you do a little homework before you invest money. Go to websites like Fidelity and Vanguard, the two largest mutual fund companies, to get a handle on the best mutual fund that fits your risk profile. If you want to just invest money and hold on, your best mutual fund investment is some form of balanced fund where the fund company takes care of the investment strategy for you.
Prepare Yourself To Crack ATMA, SNAP And NMAT 2012
Appearing in an entrance test can be of a great stress for students. And when this test is for securing a seat in a reputed B-school in India, the stress is increased. This is because of the reason that there are a number of students who would be appearing for the exam.
For students who are well prepared, such stress would not be there. But knowing about the exam dates and the information on question pattern can be of much importance for students. The ATMA 2012 is a good time away as it is usually conducted during the month of February. But students who wish to secure good ranks in the exam shall be ready to go for the preparations from now on. If they have the necessary materials to back up their studies, then their chances are brightened. They need to know that the ATMA exam paper is of 3 hours within which they have to solve about 170 questions on various topics.
Although, most of the management exams have almost the same topics, yet sometimes there are a few different questions. In ATMA exam there are questions on verbal ability, analytical reasoning, quantitative skills, etc. for the SNAP 2012, the questions would be almost of the same pattern but the number of questions in each section varies. General awareness is an extra section in the snap exam which would require study of the general knowledge. This is something extra that differs from the ATMA exam patterns.
For securing a good mark, therefore students have to prepare for the general knowledge questions also. For the exam conducted to get admission into Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, students will have to sit for the NMAT 2012 and therefore start their preparations almost one year before. The exam is attended by a number of students who are well prepared. To have an edge in the exam, students need to know the pattern so that they can study accordingly.
There is a good amount of questions related to language comprehension that would require the examinees to prepare well ahead of the date of exam with solving many question related to it. Besides this, the other sections are the usual triad of logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude and data interpretation. This shows that there is something else that goes down for a successful attempt at these management exams.
The knowledge of the pattern of questions in the respective exams is very essential. This allows the students to prepare as per the specific question patterns that might come in the different exams. And preparing in such a pattern is very important as students are appearing for different exams for admissions to different institutes and universities as it increases their chance of success in any of the exams.
Giving a number of entrance exams hones their skills. Simultaneously, the probability of cracking through some of these exams is increased. If at all misfortune is faced in one exam, then a good back up preparation according to the probable exam pattern can lead to a successful rank in another. The conduct of exams by various top notch universities and institutes helps people in their tryst to secure a good seat and prosperous future in management.
For students who are well prepared, such stress would not be there. But knowing about the exam dates and the information on question pattern can be of much importance for students. The ATMA 2012 is a good time away as it is usually conducted during the month of February. But students who wish to secure good ranks in the exam shall be ready to go for the preparations from now on. If they have the necessary materials to back up their studies, then their chances are brightened. They need to know that the ATMA exam paper is of 3 hours within which they have to solve about 170 questions on various topics.
Although, most of the management exams have almost the same topics, yet sometimes there are a few different questions. In ATMA exam there are questions on verbal ability, analytical reasoning, quantitative skills, etc. for the SNAP 2012, the questions would be almost of the same pattern but the number of questions in each section varies. General awareness is an extra section in the snap exam which would require study of the general knowledge. This is something extra that differs from the ATMA exam patterns.
For securing a good mark, therefore students have to prepare for the general knowledge questions also. For the exam conducted to get admission into Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, students will have to sit for the NMAT 2012 and therefore start their preparations almost one year before. The exam is attended by a number of students who are well prepared. To have an edge in the exam, students need to know the pattern so that they can study accordingly.
There is a good amount of questions related to language comprehension that would require the examinees to prepare well ahead of the date of exam with solving many question related to it. Besides this, the other sections are the usual triad of logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude and data interpretation. This shows that there is something else that goes down for a successful attempt at these management exams.
The knowledge of the pattern of questions in the respective exams is very essential. This allows the students to prepare as per the specific question patterns that might come in the different exams. And preparing in such a pattern is very important as students are appearing for different exams for admissions to different institutes and universities as it increases their chance of success in any of the exams.
Giving a number of entrance exams hones their skills. Simultaneously, the probability of cracking through some of these exams is increased. If at all misfortune is faced in one exam, then a good back up preparation according to the probable exam pattern can lead to a successful rank in another. The conduct of exams by various top notch universities and institutes helps people in their tryst to secure a good seat and prosperous future in management.
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy for http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/
If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at matoyek123@gmail.com.
At http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.
Log Files
Like many other Web sites, http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.
Cookies and Web Beacons
http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.
DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/.
.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html
Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
Google Adsense
These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.
http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.
You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/'s privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.
If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.
If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at matoyek123@gmail.com.
At http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.
Log Files
Like many other Web sites, http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.
Cookies and Web Beacons
http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.
DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/.
.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html
Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
Google Adsense
These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.
http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/ has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.
You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. http://managemant-2012.blogspot.com/'s privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.
If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)