• Green-From-Green

    Green From Green – Profiting From The Energy Transition

    3 Min Read
    Image Green From Green

    Green From Green – Profiting From The Energy Transition (Homes and Small Businesses)

    In an era when sustainability must deliver profitability, ‘Green From Green – Profiting From The Energy Transition – Homes & Small Businesses’ is your guide to the energy transition.
    With some unashamed self-promotion, I want to bring this new publication to your attention – my first by the way!!! I hope you like it and even more, that the book unravels some of the ‘hot air, smoke and mirrors’ that is the current news around going green and the energy transition.
    Recently published on Kindle Version and in paperback via Amazon, I am hoping that this will serve as a good reference to anyone who wants a better understanding of the energy transition, the whys and wherefores of the move that will impact all of us… and, more importantly, where homeowners and small businesses can profit or at least fund their journey to a greener future.
    The following is an outline of what you can expect:

    In an era where sustainability meets profitability, ‘Green From Green – Profiting From The Energy Transition… Homes & Small Businesses’ is your essential guide to harnessing the power of renewable energy.

    Dive into the future with Chapter 1 provides a comprehensive introduction to the energy transition, and discover lucrative opportunities in Chapter 2 for your home. Chapter 3 reveals how to turn energy efficiency into a profitable venture, while Chapter 4 provides tailor-made renewable solutions for small businesses. Gain the insights to navigate the complex policy and regulatory landscape with ease in Chapter 5, ensuring that you stay ahead of the curve.

    Whether you’re a home or a small business owner, this book offers actionable insights and practical strategies to help you survive the energy transition and thrive in the green economy.

    Don’t just go green—go green and profit from it!

    If there is a drawback in the book it is that to keep it to a sensible size, I mainly refer to US regulations and grant mechanisms, but generally, the driving principle of the UN and the International Regulations are the same for everyone and in any case will change regularly as we learn more and move ahead. The principles are the same everywhere so I hope this book will prove useful to everyone who dares to buy it.

    Available on AMAZON and AMAZON KINDLE at a much reduced PROMOTIONAL PRICE (+ Shipping in the case of the paperback)
    Hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it – any comments, recommendations or requests for more information are welcome.

    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer

    This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

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  • Made+To+Stick

    Made To Stick – Unlock The Secret To Memorable Messaging!

    3 Min Read

    The Art Of Memorable Communication

     

    In today’s world, effective communication is key to achieving success and spreading ideas. However, with the abundance of information and distractions, how can one ensure their message stands out and truly resonates with their audience? “Made To Stick” written by Chip Heath and Dan Heath is a book that offers valuable insights and techniques to create memorable and impactful messages.

     

    Why ‘Made To Stick’ Is Important

     

    What sets this book apart from others on communication is its ability to break down the components of a message that truly sticks in the minds of people. The authors introduce the “SUCCESS” framework, where they explore the elements of simplicity, unexpectedness, concreteness, credibility, emotions, and stories.

     

    By utilizing these principles, one can transform their messages into memorable and engaging stories that are more likely to be understood and retained by their audience.

     

    The book is well-paced and easy to read, making it accessible to anyone, regardless of their background or level of expertise in communication. The language used is simple and straightforward, making the concepts easy to grasp and implement.

     

    One of the many strengths of “Made To Stick” is its ability to provide real-world examples and case studies that illustrate the power of sticky messages. The authors present engaging and relatable stories of success, which not only make the concepts memorable but also inspire readers to apply the techniques in their own communication efforts.

     

    Conclusion

    Overall, “Made To Stick” is a must-read for anyone who needs to get a message across, whether they are marketers, educators, leaders, or simply someone who wants to improve their communication skills. The book provides practical and actionable strategies that can be applied to various contexts, ensuring that your messages are not only heard but remembered.

     

     

     

     

    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer

    This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

     

    Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers. This means that we may receive a small commission at no cost if you click through on these links and purchase from our partners. For more please see our Affiliate Disclosure or Contact Us

     

    NOTE – This Review May Also Be Published On My Other Review Website https://wealthylivinghub.com

     

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  • Fossil Future – A Review

    4 Min Read

     

    In Fossil Future: Why Global Human Flourishing Requires More Oil, Coal, and Natural Gas—Not Less, Alex Epstein presents a thought-provoking and counter-intuitive perspective on the role of fossil fuels in modern society. Challenging the prevailing narrative that emphasizes the urgent need to reduce fossil fuel consumption, Epstein argues that these energy sources are indispensable for human progress and environmental improvement.

    At the heart of Epstein’s argument is the concept of “human flourishing,” a framework that prioritizes human well-being and development as the ultimate measure of success in energy policy. Rooted in Aristotelian philosophy and further popularized in modern contexts by the ethical theories of Ayn Rand, human flourishing emphasizes the moral importance of enabling individuals and societies to achieve their full potential. Epstein employs this framework to argue that fossil fuels have been instrumental in elevating living standards, reducing poverty, and extending life expectancy worldwide. According to Epstein, the energy derived from oil, coal, and natural gas has enabled societies to create the infrastructure, technologies, and systems necessary for this flourishing, from advanced healthcare to modern agriculture.

    One of the book’s most compelling arguments is the observation that, despite concerns about climate change, climate-related deaths have decreased significantly over the past century. Epstein attributes this decline to the development and widespread use of fossil fuels, which have powered innovations in infrastructure, agriculture, and healthcare, thereby increasing society’s resilience to environmental challenges. He highlights that affordable and reliable energy sources are critical to sustaining the progress made and addressing future challenges.

    Epstein also critiques the “anti-impact framework,” a viewpoint that regards any human influence on nature as inherently negative. He suggests that this perspective leads to policies that hinder human development and dismisses the potential for humans to positively transform their environment. By contrast, Epstein advocates for “energy freedom” policies that encourage the use of all forms of energy, including nuclear and other promising alternatives, to achieve long-term sustainability.

    Get the Book, Kindle Book or Audible Version Here on Amazon

    The reception of Fossil Future has been mixed, reflecting the contentious nature of its subject matter. Economist Tyler Cowen acknowledged the book’s insights but critiqued its lack of consideration for a balanced transition, suggesting a more nuanced subtitle: “Why Global Human Flourishing Requires More Oil, Coal, and Natural Gas for a While, and Then Less.” Conversely, the Ayn Rand Institute praised the book as a “powerful, must-read defence of fossil fuels.” These divergent opinions highlight the book’s ability to provoke critical discussions on the energy transition.

    Epstein’s work is particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing energy transition. While there is a strong push towards renewable energy sources, Fossil Future serves as a reminder of the current limitations of these technologies and the essential role that fossil fuels continue to play in meeting global energy demands. The book encourages readers to critically assess energy policies and consider the broader implications for human flourishing.

    In conclusion, Fossil Future offers a well-researched and articulate argument that challenges conventional wisdom on energy and the environment. Whether one agrees with Epstein’s conclusions or not, the book provides a valuable contribution to the discourse on how best to balance environmental concerns with the undeniable benefits that fossil fuels have provided to humanity.

    Get the Book, Kindle Book or Audible Version Here on Amazon

    Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers. This means that we may receive a small commission at no cost if you click through on these links and purchase from our partners. For more please see our Affiliate Disclosure or Contact Us

    NOTE – This Review May Also Be Published On My Other Review Website https://wealthylivinghub.com

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  • I Used To Like Remitly Until Today…

    2 Min Read

    I used to like Remitly,  and used them for family and personal funds transfers over the last 3-4 years with few problems and certainly none of the charges that we see with ‘normal’ high street banks… great service, great rates, low fees – just like it says on the tin…

    until today!

    A straightforward transfer to a colleague overseas became a three-hour ordeal of questions and answers to the point where I actually became suspicious – all in the name of my personal security (???) and compliance (another spurious excuse in my opinion)

    Anyway, the upshot of the morning work was that my small transfer and it was small, was not allowed through because, in the opinion of the inquisitor, the transaction looked like a business transaction…

    I mean what?….

    So now I wait ten days at least to get my money back and am just fizzing – Remitly has gone way down in my estimate, no matter what their excuse. They have no right to pry, inconvenience and waste people’s time in the manner in which they did mine today.

    Anyway, saying that, if you are transferring funds to friends and family, and want to avoid the exorbitant transfer fees and usurious exchange rates of the banks, credit card agencies, transfer agencies and such, you could do much worse than Remitly… their pretty good in their niche service area and I’m probably just mad at them for the inconvenience:-)

    Try them yourself – Remitly

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  • Ted Mcgrath has the World’s Largest Database for Woodworking Projects – A Review of Teds Woodworking

    7 Min Read

     

    Now I’m new to Woodworking …

    I am fairly new to woodworking. Before last year and this pandemic with all its problems, I can honestly say that, apart from some shelves around the house and garage, the only real woodworking jobs that I did was building flat-packs (with those poor instructions) from Walmart or Ikea or wherever. 

    Then I was tempted to take a chance with some woodworking lessons and went online to find TedsWoodworking. This was a game-changer! 

    I now have a new and extremely satisfying hobby and am hoping to start making a little on the side in the near future. 

    We just love to have people around to the house or the yard to see our latest projects and enjoy sipping lemonade (or beer) on that new bench out front. In truth, my wife was sceptical but since that new dresser went in – she’s all smiles!

    Photo by Alisha Hieb on Unsplash 

    Either as a newbie, or an experienced woodworker, you have probably realised that finding the right detailed plans to build some custom projects to meet your specific needs can be very difficult. Even looking around the DIY Store will not deliver EXACTLY what you need, whether it is the size, the layout, the colour or whatever. Don’t worry, it’s not just you – I put off starting this hobby for thirty years!

    And this is still among the most common problems woodworkers face today, but luckily for you, this and other related problems shouldn’t bother you anymore.

    At TedsWoodworking.com, Ted Mcgrath, a certified master woodworker, trainer, and author can give you more than 16,000 plans, with step-by-step blueprints for various woodworking projects. 

    So what’s TedsWoodworking all about?

    Building complex projects or even the simple ones to meet your specific needs can be very difficult even for experienced woodworkers especially when you can’t find a detailed plan. And most of the so-called “step by step” guides found online and in various magazines make building some projects harder than it should be. 

    This is because the plans are sometimes not specific enough or their instructions leave out crucial information assuming that you have enough experience to know what to do. If you thought flat-pack instructions were bad – try some of the magazines … if they get caught for space – they’ll just leave a table-leg out!

    And worse, often, these plans often just don’t have enough detail. For instance, some don’t include pictures or the pictures they have don’t match what they are telling you in the text. Still, some don’t even include cut sheets, so you are forced to “guesstimate” the materials you need to buy and end up stacking unused surplus in the yard.

    Photo by Michaela Murphy on Unsplash 

    Ted Mcgrath has spent almost thirty years studying these problem designs, testing them and finding solutions. He has now put together a comprehensive collection of wood-working plans. 

    Tedswoodworking.com is his website which offers woodworkers, experienced or newbie alike, solutions to various woodworking problems, especially those related to finding the right plans for your special projects. The site has detailed plans for over 16, 000 projects. Every plan comes with a step-by-step blueprint to make it easier for you to create stunning, professional wood-working projects hassle-free, quickly, and easily.

    Who is TedsWoodworking for? 

    If you are a woodworker looking for detailed plans to start building your dream projects, or if you want a variety of plans for various custom projects, then tedswoodworking.com has you covered. This website has helpful insights for both the beginner and the more experienced woodworkers out there – everyone can benefit from Ted’s Tips & Tricks.

    Why you should check this out?

    Occasionally, you might come up against a challenging project, for instance, a family member comes and wants something special or custom-made for them. This will happen more and more as your friends realise that you are learning a new hobby that might even benefit them! Without a detailed plan and thirty years experience, it would be very difficult to build these projects quickly and without serious expense and waste. 

    TedsWoodworking comes in handy, and provides you with the plans and complete easy-to-understand instructions.

    You will also get new insights and learn new tricks to complete projects even if you do not have expensive tools or a large workshop. The best is that given the wide range of projects and complete plans available on the website, you no longer need to spend days and weeks looking for someone to complete a project for you. You will be able to build even the most challenging projects yourself.

    Here are a few things the site has to offer:

    • Easy-to-understand step by step instructions Every plan has simple “held-by-the-hand” instructions that will help you to complete your projects quickly. 
    • Materials and Cutting Lists These ensure that you get the right materials and make correct cuttings and believe me, they save you lots of money and time.
    • You get sharp, colourful and detailed schematics No guesswork involved, you will be shown what to do and how to do it in the right order to complete your projects in the shortest time.
    • The plans give you views from all angles You will see how everything should look before you start building. The details for every intricate joint, angle and rounded corner make sure you are not left wondering … and taking a chance.
    • Various lists of plans (16,000+) Plus: you also get new plans every month for free.

    The plans cover all levels of competence, confidence and skills. You don’t have to be an expert wood-worker or have expensive tools and machinery to make full use of these plans. 

    Whether you are a pro woodworker, a cabinet-maker, an amateur DIY enthusiast, or a beginner with a few hand tools and a lot of desire, you will find numerous projects to get you going.

    What You Won’t Like about Teds Woodworking?

    Although Teds Woodworking has a lot of good things to offer, it does have some flaws. Since this contains thousands of plans, it takes time to download it, particularly if your internet speed isn’t up to the mark. 

    Nevertheless, this problem will be eliminated if you choose the DVD version of Teds Woodworking. You’ll have every plan in a portable DVD and you won’t need to spend time in front of your computer to download the pack. 

    But, if you pick the DVD version, you’ll have to wait several days for the shipping. Aside from that, organizing and reviewing 16,000 plans to see where to start, is not a simple task. To help you with this they have an excellent search option to help you find the project you’re looking for.

    Why Should You Choose Teds Woodworking?

    If you are planning to purchase 16,000 plans individually, it’ll cost you loads of money. However, Ted is offering everything for a limited launch price of only $67. 

    Thousands of woodworkers are using his plans to create awesome stuff out of wood, upgrading their homes and impressing their family and friends with newly acquired skills. Some have even gone on to turn these skills into part- or full-time moneymakers from home!

    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

    It’s now your turn to get in on the action – 

    See the video 📺

    or Check the link below:

    TedsWoodworking Plans and Projects
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  • First Look – The Custom Keto Diet

    5 Min Read
    Photo by Brenda Godinez on Unsplash

    Eat What You Like, When You Like and Progress, as You Like

    Firstly, what is the Custom Keto plan anyway?

    The Custom Keto Diet is a fully personalised meal plan service originally designed to help men and women, of all ages and all over the world turn their lives around and take charge of their health and figure.

    The Custom Keto Diet is a brand new product based on a traditional view of diet management and allows someone to create you very own keto diet plan based on their food preferences, daily activity levels, height, weight and target weight goals. 

    This is not another off the shelf digital diet where you are get a pdf and are then left to your own devices! 

    No, there are a series of contacts and approaches beginning with a Custom Keto Diet Quiz that your today take today to give you and outline plan – following this gentle introduction you get a simple program that you can build on to eventually reach your health, fitness and more importantly, image goals that you set out for yourself.

    Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash

    The Custom Keto Approach

    The Custom Keto Diet approach uses scientific research and proven dietetics research to create personalised ketogenic diet plans to maximise fat burning via the correct calories and macronutrients for each individual. 

    The team then follows up with you to ensure that you remain on track to meet your goals.

    Did you know that the main reason why people fail to meet their weight and general health goals, or any goals in life for that matter, is that they create great goals, commit to great goals, but fail to make themselves accountable for meeting those goals? Left to their own devices, the goals lose their meaning and fade into memory … this is certainly not the case with the Custom Keto Diet.

    The Custom Keto Diet Quiz is available immediately by following the link and customised plan becomes available to access immediately after payment … 

    You should note that at the time of writing there was a 7-Day Trial, just to get you started on your journey to a healthier looking you.

    Here’s what we get you from the get-go:

    • An eight-week meal plan based your food likes and dislikes and the expertise of certified nutritionists, personal trainers, and chefs.
    • Meals that have calorie and macronutrient content tailored to your specific starting point, situation, preferences and the outcomes that you want to aim for.
    • A nutrition plan with food variety to ensure you get a wide range of necessary nutrients and boost the likelihood of sticking to your plan.
    • Meals that are based on your personal food preferences making your diet more enjoyable and giving your the best chance to keep on track to meet your goals in the shortest time.
    • Detailed recipes with step-by-step instructions to prepare super-simple meals – don’t worry, I managed and definitely it’s true when they say – no prior cooking experience needed!
    • A weekly shopping list details every ingredient that you will need for the week ahead. 
    • As you build your stock of ingredients over the weeks, you also build your options to customise every meal even further to suit your taste buds.

    Here’s what some real clients had to say:

    As of today I’ve lost 35 pounds, I have no hunger pangs and mentally I feel sharp as a pin. This is definitely going to become a ‘way of life’ for me as it’s so easy to follow… All my meals are planned out for me and I even get a downloadable shopping list with all the ingredients I need for the weekly shop so it really is a doddle

    Katy Thompson, UK

    I’m 4 weeks into my Custom Keto diet plan and I’ve lost 14 pounds which I must say is pretty incredible, it’s actually amazing watching my body transform into something I am actually proud of rather than something I have always tried to cover up

    Jessica Grey, US

    Photo by i yunmai on Unsplash

    Finally,

    This is not called a Custom Keto diet for nothing – it is truly designed with you in mind.

    You will learn what to eat every day to reach your goals in the fastest and most enjoyable way.

    You will see how effective the meal plans are and you will learn how to make those meals even more enjoyable for you and those who may decide to follow you on the Custom Keto journey!


    To get access to the Custom Keto Quiz and move ahead – CLICK HERE

    Also Available From Amazon – an Alternative:

    Keto Diet On Amazon

    PS – Affiliate Disclosure: As you will see when you visit my website, I am an Affiliate for Custom Keto. As such, I would never promote any product or service that does not do ‘what it says on the tin’ so please leave a comment or let me know how you get on – you can also find out more in the future by leaving your contact details and we will get back to your with more offers that might be of benefit to you.

    There are far too many good products and services out there for me to waste my time promoting garbage so I would love to know how well you do with Custom Keto.


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  • Post Image

    Jim’s Great Reads / Listens: Investment Strategies and ‘The Richest Man in Babylon’

    4 Min Read


    One of the most popular investment books ever written, The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason is a timeless classic that has helped millions around the world invest wisely and grow their wealth over time! This book tells readers about nine simple steps to financial success–planning your budgeting process carefully before you start investing or spending any money at all; setting aside 10% for savings as well as another 25% which can go into investments (which may include stocks); being honest with others while also holding true within yourself when it comes down to giving back what’s left over after everything else is taken care off first: 50%.

    In George Samuel Clason’s classic 1926 book, “Babylon was one of the greatest cities in all antiquity, but it had a problem. It wasn’t poor—but many of its people were.” This collection of ‘Babylonian parables‘ was hailed on its arrival in the marketplace as the greatest of all inspirational works on the subject of thrift, financial planning, financial security and protecting personal wealth, or “building your moat” as Berkshire Hathaway would advise.

    Although the classic has been around for more than 80 years, it is evergreen. Its message about saving and investing is just as relevant today as they were in ancient times when this book was written.

    I originally bought the book following a Financial Mastery course with Tony Robbins back in the early nineties and have since gifted it to my two children who are now in college and hopefully will, in turn, gift a copy to their kids – that’s how highly I would rate this book.

    Throughout the book, we learn that there are laws that govern money, and they have been around since ancient Babylon. When you follow them correctly, the world is your oyster—money will come to you naturally!

    We measure our success in life by how much money we have accumulated and retained. The more wealth you accumulate, the better off you are on Earth. Money is governed today just like it was thousands of years ago when successful men walked through Babylonian streets. Money makes possible the enjoyment of the best that Mother Earth affords to us.

    Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple laws that govern its acquisition … and retention.

    Money is the primary indicator of worldly success. It lets you experience all that Earth has to offer through its luxuries and conveniences, like how gravity works on earth even today. Successful people have always followed laws exactly similar to those controlling money during ancient Babylon when rich merchants walked around streets and markets just like we do now in our times with evidence from Gravity’s Law too.

    Fortune telling has changed over the years. Now, rather than using a crystal ball or tarot cards to predict your future, you can read this short book, or indeed listen to the eBook version and discover how best to manage money and secure wealth for yourself!

    Through these entertaining tales of merchants, tradesmen, herdsmen etc., You’ll learn how to keep more out of what you earn; get out of debt; put your money to work to attract good luck choose wise investments to safeguard a lasting fortune.

    The lessons contained in ‘The Richest Man in Babylon‘ are as important today as they were thousands of years ago. This classic is a must-read for anyone looking to inspire their own financial success and I would highly recommend it!

    Jim’s Book of the Month Rating:

    This classic deserves a full five out of five stars for its timeless advice and ease of use – and indeed this is consistent with numerous (5000+) online reviews on Amazon.com at the time of writing!

    Concluding paragraph:

    In summary, this classic is an excellent read for anyone looking to better understand how personal finance works and strategies you can implement today to grow your wealth over time, build a secure future for you and your family, and if you’re so inclined go on to build yourself a future of time, location and financial freedom.

    Recommended both in book and digital, audio-book form (free with an Audible Trial)

    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

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  • Post Image

    10 Quotes from Stephen R Covey’s “First Things First” (1994) That Will Change Your Life

    4 Min Read

    Photo by Kevin Ku on Unsplash

    Photo by Kevin Ku on Unsplash

    First Things First – The Intro

    If you want to be successful, you will need more than luck. The most important ingredient for success is not talent – it is discipline. Discipline is the key that unlocks the door of opportunity and without it, all your other talents are wasted.

    There are many ways to develop the habit of discipline but we believe that one of the best ways to do it is to learn to manage our time effectively. That’s why we would like to introduce you to one of the most influential books on time management – First Things First by Stephen R Covey.

    Published in 1994, this book has since helped millions of people around the world achieve more success and fulfilment in their lives.

    In this article, we will share 10 quotes from Stephen R Covey’s “First Things First” that will change your life.

    A Brief Summary

    First Things First is a book about time management and how to be successful. The author, Stephen R Covey, shares his thoughts on how to enjoy a more fulfilling and successful life through effective personal management and wise decision-making. He provides clear messages, instructive anecdotes, and concise steps that can be applied by anyone looking to make the most out of their life.

    Reading this book made me feel excited about the possibilities that lay ahead for me. It showed me that, with a bit of discipline and organisation, I can achieve anything I want in life. The book is filled with helpful tips and advice which makes it a great read for anyone looking to improve their productivity and life management skills generally.

    10 Memorable Takeaways

    The following are just ten of the more memorable ‘quotes’ or, probably better described as takeaways, from this timeless and evergreen New York Times Bestseller:

    1. The most important ingredient for success is not talent, it’s discipline.

    2. Discipline is the key that unlocks the door of opportunity and without it, all your other talents are wasted.

    3. You can’t control the direction of the wind, but you can adjust your sails.

    4. We can’t control the length of our lives, but we can control the width and depth of our lives.

    5. Success is not a destination, it’s a journey.

    6. We are not in control of what happens to us, but we are in control of how we react to what happens to us.

    7. We can’t always choose what happens to us, but we can choose how we respond to what happens to us.

    8. The most important thing is not to be first, but to be second.

    9. The most important thing in life is not to win, but to learn.

    10. The most important thing in life is not to be a success, but to be a good person.

    Conclusion

    One specific thing I liked most about the book was the section on “creating a personal mission statement”. This was a very helpful exercise that got me thinking about what is truly important to me in life and what I want to achieve. It was a great way to get started on creating a more meaningful and productive life and focusing on what’s important.

    To remind, if you want to be successful, you will need more than luck. The most important ingredient for success is not talent, it’s discipline. Discipline is the key that unlocks the door of opportunity and without it, all your other talents are wasted.

    My Recommendation:

    First Things First

    by Stephen R Covey (1994)

    If you’re looking for a book that will help you achieve more success and fulfilment in your life, then I highly recommend “First Things First” by Stephen R Covey. It’s a great read filled with helpful tips and advice that can be applied by anyone looking to improve their productivity and time management skills.

    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

    Full Disclosure

    Click below to see where you can go for whether a hardcopy, digital or audible version of  this great book – by the way, full disclosure, as an amazon associate, I can make a small stipend when you use this link. 

    If you would like to consider building your own passive income stream online, or indeed, your own ecommerce, or affiliate business, please contact me at: https://jimhoulihan.com to access some excellent online experiential training.

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  • Post Image

    How the 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing can still help your business (after all these years)!

    7 Min Read


    The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing by Al Ries and Jack Trout 1994 has become an all-time marketing classic. Within its pages, one will find valuable insights about branding, positioning, differentiation, and the like for any business or marketer who wants to stay on top of their game.

    It is not a coincidence that “immutable” means unchangeable. The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing by Al Ries and Jack Trout 1994 has been published for over two decades, yet it still holds true today as one of the most insightful books about marketing ever written. Every marketer should read this book to better understand how to create and sustain a successful brand.

    Introduction

    “Billions of dollars are wasted every year on marketing programs that couldn’t possibly work, no matter how clever or brilliant. Or how big the budgets” So starts this marketing classic. Al

    Ries and Jack Trout, two of the world’s most famous marketing consultants, wrote The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing to help businesspeople cut through the clutter and focus on what really works in marketing.

    The book’s subtitle which could well be, “Violate Them at Your Own Risk!,” is a good summary of its contents and is in itself fairly self-explanatory.

    The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing is a book written by Al Ries and Jack Trout. The book is a guide to marketing and it teaches businesspeople how to cut through the clutter and focus on what really works in marketing. The book is divided into 22 chapters, each of which discusses a different law of marketing.

    Some of the laws discussed in the book include the Law of Leadership, the Law of the Category, the Law of Focus, and the Law of Connection. Each law is explained in detail and provides examples of how it can be applied to real-world marketing situations.

    The book also includes a section on marketing myths and mistakes, which debunks some common misconceptions about marketing.

    Overview

    Although it was first published in 1994, The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing by Al Ries and Jack Trout is still one of the most valuable marketing books around. It provides timeless insights about branding, positioning, differentiation, and more than any business or marketer can use to stay on top of their game. Although the very valid examples set against the individual rules are somewhat dated now, the lessons within are as relevant today as they were when the book first came out.

    If you want to stay ahead of the curve and keep your business growing, violating any of The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing is a risk you should not take!

    Some of the key points or takeaways from The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing include:

    • The importance of branding
    • The need for differentiation
    • The power of positioning
    • And much more!

    One specific thing I liked most about The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing was the section about the importance of differentiation. It’s a point that a lot of people forget in today’s marketplace, and it’s something that can really set your business apart from the competition.

    While the book was written “way back when” certain aspects of the narrative are still alive and well today, such as brand Trump for example – yes, The Donald remains a divisive topic almost three decades later. At the time of writing Donald Trump was only USD1.4 billion in debt and the writers ask “What’s a Trump?” and highlight that what made him successful in the short term was exactly what caused him to fail in the long term – line extension … and he has kept on failing … right to the top of the hill and down again. He makes it look easy, but for us lesser mortals we should note from the authors, “marketing is not a game for amateurs”, or maybe even mere mortals!

    One specific thing I did not like about the book was the lack of updated examples and case studies. A lot has changed in the world since 1994, and it would have been helpful to see how the rules applied in more recent times. Additionally, many of the examples used in the book were from businesses that are no longer around, which may make it somewhat difficult to relate to – maybe this would be a prompt for someone to take up the mantle and update this excellent book for the digital age.

    Takeaways

    As this is a very concise book and packed full of marketing gems, it is very difficult to give just one notable quotation that completely summarizes the book’s contents. However, one of the most important things that the authors Al Ries and Jack Trout stress is the importance of focus in marketing. Marketing efforts should be concentrated on a very small target market to be successful. This is still excellent advice after all these years and something that many businesses could benefit from taking to heart.

    Another great takeaway from the book is that businesses need to focus on creating a unique selling proposition or USP. This is what will differentiate your business from the competition and make people want to buy from you instead of someone else. If you don’t have a USP, it’s time to create one!

    So, the following might qualify as real gems:

    “Marketing is not a battle of products, but of perceptions.”

    “The aim of marketing is to know and understand the customer so well that the product or service fits him and sells itself.”

    Or as they say in current marketing parlance, the task of the marketer is to meet the prospect with a conversation that is already taking place in their head and the challenge is to “fish where the fish are swimming”.

    And Finally

    22 Immutable Laws of Marketing

    by Al Ries and Jack Trout (1994)

    When The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing was first published in 1994, it took the marketing world by storm. There were two guys who really knew their stuff when it came to marketing, and they were sharing their secrets with the world. The book became an instant classic and has remained relevant even today – more than 20 years later.

    According to the authors, create the concept and raise money to exploit it. The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing has a warning at its conclusion that many of these laws are against conventional thinking, and this is even the case today, so implementing these ideas in practice may be tough, but if you succeed, you will succeed significantly!

    I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to stay ahead in the world of marketing. The immutable laws explored within its pages are still relevant today and can help any business achieve success.

    Overall, The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing is an essential guide for anyone who wants to learn more about marketing and how to be successful at it. If you are looking for a book that will teach you everything you need to know about marketing, then this is the book for you.


    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

    Full Disclosure

    Click below to see where you can go for a hardcopy, digital or audible version of this great book – by the way, full disclosure, as an Amazon associate, I can make a small stipend when you use this link to make a purchase. 

    If you would like to consider building your own passive income stream online, or indeed, your own ecommerce, or affiliate business, please contact me at: https://jimhoulihan.com to access some excellent online experiential training.


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    Why Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits Are Still Relevant Today – Updated 2024 Review

    6 Min Read

    Stephen Covey, the author of this bestseller, outlines the habits that he believes will help individuals achieve success in all areas of their lives. 

    Stephen Covey published a book that has captivated readers and transformed the lives of millions of people. That book is The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and it is still highly relevant today. In this book, Covey outlines the habits that he believes will help individuals achieve success in all areas of their lives. These habits are: being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking to understand and then to be understood, synergising, and sharpening the saw.

    Why these habits are still relevant today

    In the 25 years since Covey’s book was published, the world has changed a lot. But the principles in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People are still just as relevant. In fact, they might be even more relevant now than they were when the book was first published.

    The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a self-help book that teaches individuals the habits that Covey believed would help them achieve success in all areas of their lives. These habits include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking to understand and then be understood, synergizing, and sharpening the saw. The book has sold millions of copies and although the author passed away in 2012 it continues to be highly relevant today.

    A book can make you feel a variety of emotions whether you like it or not. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a powerful book that teaches individuals the habits that Covey believed would help them achieve success in all areas of their lives. 

    The book has sold millions of copies and although the author passed away in 2012 it continues to be highly relevant today. I read this book for the first time a couple of decades ago, and it made me feel hopeful. I had just graduated from college and was full of hope and probably false confidence but luckily realized that I had not learned a whole lot about building a life, or a business for that matter – a common complaint about college education even now! 

    This book showed me that it was possible to achieve success, whatever that means, and that success by many definitions is dependent, not on what I had learned at college, but on what I had learned about myself if I was willing to put in the effort and follow the habits that Covey outlines. 

    This book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to improve their life or career. 

    Key takeaways from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People:

    • The first habit, being proactive, is still relevant because it’s more important than ever to take control of our lives. With the constantly changing landscape of the world, it’s more important than ever to be proactive and take charge of our own lives. 
    • The second habit, beginning with the end in mind, is relevant because it helps us focus on what’s important. In a world where there are so many distractions, it’s important to be able to focus on what’s really important and work towards our goals. 
    • The third habit, putting first things first, is still relevant because it’s important to prioritize our time. With so many demands on our time, it’s more important than ever to make sure we’re spending our time on the things that are most important to us. 
    • The fourth habit, thinking win-win, is still relevant because it’s essential to have good relationships. In order to build successful relationships, both personal and professional, it’s important to think win-win.  
    • The fifth habit, seeking first to understand and then to be understood, is still relevant because it’s essential to communication. To effectively communicate with others, we need to first seek to understand them and then be open to being understood ourselves. 
    • The sixth habit, synergising – the principles of cooperation, is still relevant because it’s important to work together. To achieve our goals, we need to be able to work together with others. 
    • And finally, the seventh habit, sharpening the saw, is still relevant because it’s important to continuously improve. In order to be successful, we need to continuously strive to improve ourselves. Some would say that success is not what we get from the journey, it’s what we become during the journey.

    High Points of the 7 Habits

    I liked the section near the end of the book where Covey talked about how we need to continuously improve ourselves in all areas of our lives, where he spoke about sharpening the saw – this really held resonance for me, both when I first read the book and again when I re-read it several weeks ago. This is something that I’ve taken to heart and strive to do every day. Whether it’s learning a new skill, reading a book, or simply trying to become a better person.

    The book is full of quotable points and gems of which the following might be of use today:

    “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” 

    “A person who is genuinely interested in you will want to hear about your dreams and aspirations.” 

    “The highest level of effectiveness comes from living by principle rather than personal opinion.”

    And Finally

    The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

    by Stephen R Covey (1989)

    So there you have it, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is still as relevant and powerful a book today as it was when published over thirty years ago. I am convinced that it will stand the test of time alongside some of the greats like Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

    If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it. And if you have read it, I encourage you to re-read it and see how the principles can apply to your life in 2022. 

    Of Course, If You’re On The Go – You can Always Get This On Your Audible Membership Offer This is my review, I have an Audible Membership and, full disclosure, I may get an affiliate commission if you make a purchase and will be very grateful. Thank you and enjoy.

    And Full Disclosure

    Click below to see where you can go for whether a hardcopy, digital or audible version of this great book – by the way, full disclosure, as an amazon associate, I can make a small stipend when you use this link. 

    If you would like to consider building your own passive income stream online, or indeed, your own e-commerce, or affiliate business, please contact me at: https://jimhoulihan.com to access some excellent online experiential training.


     

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