Time Management
by Phil Schembra on January 19, 2012
Time is the essential dimension in which all thought and activity take place. No thought or activity is possible without it. It cannot be stored or accumulated; it must be used as it occurs. If you don't use it as it becomes available, it passes and is gone forever.
Therefore, it is important that wise and thrifty use of time be a regular part of your thinking and planning. Time management is not only an effective tool for determining how to use your time, but is also a means for preventing its loss or waste.
Get in the Habit of Setting Goals
by Phil Schembra on January 18, 2012
Once you are in the habit of setting goals, strive to work harder than you thought you could. This gives you an added incentive to improve even more. A note of caution: Goals must be realistic to be successful. Reward yourself when you reach a goal and enjoy your accomplishments. You have achieved what you set out to do and this should be a pleasurable experience!
You must become a believer in your goals. Dream your goals. Visualize your success. Make your goals of utmost importance to you. Don't be afraid to be a beautiful dreamer. Live your goals every day. In time, your goals will become an integral part of your life. You will realize your potential and purpose in life and enjoy greater success.
Goal Setting
by Phil Schembra on January 17, 2012
Excerpts are taken from from The Total Person 2012
Weekly Tips! Planning your short-term daily goals will help you reach your long-term objectives. Break down your short-term goals to monthly and weekly. Plan your goals and record them on a daily basis in your planner. This gives each day added meaning and direction, and will help you focus on your priorities.
Planning your goals on a weekly and monthly basis provides a way for you to check yor progress. This is a good method to measure and track your goals to determine whether you are getting closer to your yearly goals. Establish yearly goals that closely reflect the objective you want to achieve.
Follow and like us on facebook.com/restoringamericasgreatness and facebook.com/hiltonheadislandperformancegroup share your comments on how goal setting can benefit both in your personal and professional lives.
Is it Realistic?
by Phil Schembra on January 11, 2012
Make your goals realistic. At first, they should be easy to achieve so that you can get into the habit of achieving your goals. There will be plenty of time later to progress toward more complex goals.
Goal Setting
by Phil Schembra on January 10, 2012
Take this time in your life to map out your success and the important things you want to accomplish in your lifetime. Define your goals and create the intense desire to achieve them. Plan the goals you would like to achieve during the next year.
Confidence Builder
by Phil Schembra on January 04, 2012
Achieving your goals is a tremendous confidence builder. The more you strive to achieve your goals, the more enjoyment you get out of setting your goals. As you strive to achieve your goals, your self-image will improve. This is important to realize because your self-image is based on past successes, which goals helped you achieve.
Goal Setting
by Phil Schembra on January 03, 2012
It makes you feel good to know that you have made a commitment to yourself, your family and your career to reach your goals. You enjoy achieving your goals because doing so means you are achieving the things which are important to you in your personal and/or professional life.
Take Aim
by Phil Schembra on December 28, 2011
Take aim on your goals and be certain that every resolution supports those goals. Note those goals in your planner as a constant reminder so that you can measure your progress each time you open the dairy.
New Year's Resolutions
by Phil Schembra on December 27, 2011
New Year's resolutions are easy to make, but reality must be faced the next morning. Goal setting, a more positive attitude, self-image and self-motivation can help turn those resolutions into the reality that you want.
Positive Mental Attitude
by Phil Schembra on December 21, 2011
A positive mental attitude can take you a long way both in your personal and professional life and beyond. So remember, a positive mental attitude and self-image are not something you can catch, but something you must generate from within.
How is Your Attitude?
by Phil Schembra on December 20, 2011
Praising someone else's good work or good deed will contribute to your own positive mental attitude by generating pleasant interactions with other people. As your interest in other people expands, your self-image develops in direct proportion.
Achieve Excellence
by Phil Schembra on December 14, 2011
Grasp all your opportunities to achieve excellence in the use of your natural talents and abilities so that when the opportunity arises for you to make a difference, you will have both the competence and the confidence to do it.
Values
by Phil Schembra on December 13, 2011
You are living in an era of our history when the behavior and conduct of many in high places is being questioned and challenged. Do not let this discourage you or lead you down a false path believing that such behavior is normal or appropriate.
Motivation
by Phil Schembra on December 07, 2011
Your motivation must be the desire to establish goals for yourself and to take steps to achieve them. So take AIM on your aspirations and you will gain the respect of others.
Gaining Respect
by Phil Schembra on December 06, 2011
Respect for yourself is a reflection of AIM - attitude, image and motivation. Accentuating the positive without ignoring the negative will be highly regarded by others. Concern about how you come across to yourself will be of greater significance in achieving your goals.
Quality of the Action
by Phil Schembra on November 30, 2011
It's not the quantity of actions, which make something right, it's the quality of those actions. Other people will not remember that you went along with the crowd, but your individuality in separating yourself from the crowd will be noted, respected and remembered, so establish and maintain your own standards.
Gaining Respect
by Phil Schembra on November 29, 2011
When you have confidence that you are able to get your message across clearly and with motivational impact, your respect for yourself will become apparent. Effective communication is the essential ingredient in your relationships with other people.
Effective Communication
by Phil Schembra on November 23, 2011
Asking questions is a productive form of communication. In an interview, it not only shows interest, but gets the interviewer to talk more and, thereby, enables you to listen. When preparing for an interview, it is a good idea to assemble in your mind a series of carefully thought out, intelligent questions to ask.
Fact or Fiction
by Phil Schembra on November 22, 2011
Is your communication an opinion? If it is, say so. If you know whose opinion, specify. Opinions stated as facts can lead to misunderstandings. Since you may have been the first person to convert from opinion to fact, you may later be embarrassed if the fact turns out to be fiction.
Interpretation is the Key
by Phil Schembra on November 16, 2011
It is important that executives be able to read and interpret financial statements so that they can assess and measure progress, determine whether improvements or changes are required, and take steps within the areas of their responsibility to affect such changes. Courses and books for non-financial executives are available for learning this skill.
Financial Statements
by Phil Schembra on November 15, 2011
Financial statements published for the benefit of the owners (stockholders) are usually examined and checked extensively by auditing firms for accuracy in reflecting the correct and true status of the business. If the auditors have reason to doubt the correctness of any parts of the statements, or are unable to make a good estimate of questionable items, they will usually note so in their certification.
Profit and Loss
by Phil Schembra on November 09, 2011
An operating profit and loss (P&L) statement provides a picture of the financial results of operations during a period ending on the date of the balance sheet. It will normally show revenue from various sources and costs and expenses related to that period. Those expenses will frequently include the costs of provisions to set up or add to the reserves established for hedging the value of the assets.
Essential Professional Skills
by Phil Schembra on November 08, 2011
For a broad based executive, there are a number of specific requisite capabilities needed both for discussing the business with peers and upper level management, and for carrying out assigned duties and responsibilities. These skills involve the ability to read and understand accounting and financial statements.
Keeping Informed
by Phil Schembra on November 01, 2011
Appearing to be an informed person can be extremely valuable when you are being interviewed for a job or for entry into a second career. Having good knowledge of current events will help to develop self-confidence and a positive self-image.
Keeping Informed
by Phil Schembra on October 26, 2011
How to keep informed is only a matter of how much time and effort you are willing to put into it. A five-minute radio broadcast news summary is better than nothing at all, but it is unlikely to provide you with the background, the whys and the wherefores, and the probable consequences. Reading a good newspaper daily, coupled with reading a good weekly news magazine, can make you relatively expert and knowledgeable about current events. Discussion with friends and associates will frequently bring out points, which may have been missed.
Keeping Informed
by Phil Schembra on October 25, 2011
Being informed is an objective when the time comes for you to exercise your rights in the voting booth. Knowledge of people and issues is essential if you are to participate intelligently and constructively in the democratic process. The art of asking questions is another key to excellence in communicating and learning. Except in a pre-planned debate, questions should be asked to gain greater understanding, not to generate controversy. Remember, a question is a message and the same rules apply as apply in all communications.
Time Management
by Phil Schembra on October 18, 2011
Because proper planning can save you a great deal of time, it is important that you schedule time for planning. You can even plan time for procrastination as long as it is properly labeled and the procrastination ends when the time is up.
You and Your Counterparts
by Phil Schembra on October 12, 2011
In order to avoid disastrous surprises, it can be very helpful and convenient for you to establish a personal rapport with your counterparts in other departments. This should be done in the spirit of cooperation and mutual support; never in the mode of finger pointing, fault finding or complaining. They, in turn, should be encouraged to initiate communication with you concerning their activities.
You and Your Peers
by Phil Schembra on October 11, 2011
An organization consists of many operating activities - divisions, departments, sections, etc. Each has distinct responsibilities. Your success and the success of your organizational group will be dependent, to a large extent, upon the successful accomplishment of objectives by each of the other functions. In a similar manner, they also depend on you.
Hazardous to Your Health
by Phil Schembra on October 05, 2011
Smoking is also hazardous to your health. It has been linked to heart disease and cancer. It also reduces the efficiency of your lungs, thereby putting limits on physical exercise. Present studies also show that secondary smoke is harmful to those who are around smokers. Smoking is clearly a no-winner.
Health, Wellness and Fitness
by Phil Schembra on October 04, 2011
The quality of your sleep is an important factor in how well you feel and how effectively you work. You typically need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Whatever exercise you do will generally contribute to the quality of your sleep. The hazards of excessive alcohol far outweigh any benefits that people are seeking. It can cause irreparable damage to your liver and heart. It dulls the brain, slows your reflexes, and impairs your judgment.
Diet
by Phil Schembra on September 28, 2011
Remember, diet is the sum total of everything that passes through your mouth to your stomach. There is no "free lunch" here! Eating the right foods in the right quantity is an important part of any program of physical fitness. Drink 8-10 glasses of water each day. Eat a variety of foods with adequate amounts of starch and fiber. Limit your daily intake of fat, cholesterol, sugar and sodium.
Health, Wellness And Fitness
by Phil Schembra on September 27, 2011
Although it takes energy, exercise usually reduces the feelings of tiredness and fatigue. It thus increases both the amount and quality of energy one has for doing other things. It's a winner every time. Stay active. Don't get in the lazy habit of lounging around when you are not on the job. Occasionally take a 20-minute break from what you're doing for some physical activity. Exercise helps you relax and eases tensions.
Dealing with Ethical Issues
by Phil Schembra on September 21, 2011
Am I breaking the law - the same law that I rely on to protect me? Am I using information, which is not general knowledge, to better my own position by being unfair to someone who is not privy to such information? Am I polluting the environment?
Dealing with Ethical Issues
by Phil Schembra on September 20, 2011
To determine whether an ethical issue exists, ask yourself some questions. Is it fair? Is it honest? Is it kind? Will I benefit by someone else's being hurt? Am I taking unfair advantage of someone? Will my action cause distress for others? Am I using my position to get a benefit that should go elsewhere? Am I lying to achieve my objective?
Are You Prepared To Be A Competitor?
by Phil Schembra on September 14, 2011
Be eager to: practice, practice, practice; learn and develop the skills needed to win a game; and study, study, study, to assure mastery of the material needed to be a winner. Preparation is always the most important key to good performance. Because of this you'll always be the first to know whether you are ready to play your very best. More importantly, when it's all over, you will be the first to know whether you have played your very best.
Are You Prepared To Be A Competitor?
by Phil Schembra on September 13, 2011
Do you want to win? It's important to want to win, but it takes a lot more to be a winner - in either life, sports or business. The first step is to learn how to play the game. The next step is to get in condition - both mentally and physically. Make certain that the brain and the body are ready to tackle the hard tasks, which will be required in order to be a winner.
Minding Your Mind
by Phil Schembra on September 07, 2011
The brain works better in a healthy body, which has had the benefit of proper food, rest and exercise. It develops best when it functions on a wide variety of subjects, rather than a single point of focus. Mind the mind or care for the brain by using it - during every waking minute. As the body cares for the brain, the brain cares for the body by reminding you what you must do to be healthy.
Minding Your Mind
by Phil Schembra on September 06, 2011
The human brain is a remarkable object. It can solve intricate problems. It can recall past mistakes or intricate details. It can experience joy or sadness. It can motivate you to do great things. Like the body, the brain needs care. It doesn't function efficiently under the influence of drugs, alcohol or lack of sleep. It thrives on mental challenges and every form of mental exercise.
Success and Self-motivation
by Phil Schembra on August 31, 2011
You have continuing interest in your job. What may have once been drudgery becomes fun. You'll be eager to go to work every day because you enjoy what you are doing. Success and self-motivation go hand-in-hand. Your increased financial rewards allow you to provide not just the necessities, but also the luxuries for your family - not only now, but for the future, as well.
The Benefits of Being Self-Motivated
by Phil Schembra on August 30, 2011
You have a huge competitive edge over individuals who are not as self-motivated, resulting in increased sales and job productivity for you and improved quality of both your personal and professional life. You control your own destiny. You do not rely on others to get the job done for you. Job satisfaction will result because you accomplish what you set out to do.
Self-Motivation
by Phil Schembra on August 24, 2011
Self-motivation requires setting goals. The goals you set and meet go a long way in determining the lifestyle you achieve. By remaining motivated, you will achieve these goals and the lifestyle you deserve!
Don't Cheat Yourself
by Phil Schembra on August 23, 2011
Many people depend on you. You have a responsibility to yourself, your family and your work. Fulfilling your responsibilities demands that you be self-motivated. Don't cheat yourself. You owe it to yourself to use your talents to the fullest. To do otherwise would be a tragedy.
Short-Term Sacrifices
by Phil Schembra on August 17, 2011
You may have to make some short-term sacrifices in the social aspects of your life or outside business experience, but you should consider this to be an investment in the future, just as your education has been. Doing it all is a simple matter of managing your time and your schedule. If you plan your activities carefully, you will discover that you will have the time for personal, professional and extracurricular participation.
If You Want It All, You Can Do It All!
by Phil Schembra on August 16, 2011
It is not only possible, but the chances are good that you can have a successful personal life and also have a successful business experience. You just have to want it bad enough to do what has to be done. If you carry the disciplines of sports, the "can do" feeling, the "keep trying" attitude and the "push till it hurts" drive into your outside business activities, you will be amazed at how well you will do.
Positive Self-Image
by Phil Schembra on August 10, 2011
Extended periods of idleness can lead to negative thoughts and a very negative self-image. By contrast, physical and mental activity tends to promote self-satisfaction, which builds one's positive mental attitude. Likewise, your positive self-image can have a direct influence on the people with whom you interact. If they see a happier, more positive you, then they are likely to emulate your behavior. Extended periods of idleness can lead to negative thoughts and a very negative self-image. By contrast, physical and mental activity tends to promote self-satisfaction, which builds one's positive mental attitude.
How is Your Attitude?
by Phil Schembra on August 09, 2011
You cannot live totally within yourself. Your successful relationships with others are probably the single most important element in developing a positive mental attitude and self-image. Praising someone else's good work or good deed will contribute to your own positive mental attitude by generating pleasant interactions with other people. As your interest in other people expands, your self-image develops in direct proportion.
Benefits of Physical Fitness
by Phil Schembra on August 03, 2011
As an active, involved person, you will find that there is a relationship between physical fitness and your ability to think more productively and effectively. Your mind and body do relate to each other. For most people, attention to physical fitness will also pay dividends in terms of less lost time for incapacity, and increased time for creativity and recreation. Time is too precious a commodity to waste as a result of not being well.
Health, Wellness and Physical Fitness
by Phil Schembra on August 02, 2011
Physical fitness will help most people feel better, live better and stay healthy longer. Best of all, it's relatively easy to achieve. Moderate exercise and a positive approach to nutrition can achieve the desired results for most people.
Self Image Development
by Phil Schembra on July 27, 2011
Praising someone else's good work or good deed will contribute to your own positive mental attitude by generating pleasant interactions with other people. As your interest in other people expands, your self image develops in direct proportion.
How is Your Attitude
by Phil Schembra on July 26, 2011
Your successful relationships with others are probably the single most important element in developing a positive mental attitude and self Image. Likewise, your positive mental attitude and self image can have a direct influence on the people with whom you interact. If they see a happier, more positive you, then they are likely to emulate your behavior.
Keeping Informed
by Phil Schembra on July 22, 2011
Keeping informed means more than just knowing what is happening. It also means having some idea about why something is happening and what the consequences are likely to be. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Big Opportunities
by Phil Schembra on July 20, 2011
Knowing where the big opportunities will be in the future will help you determine whether you should continue your education, and even which courses will have the greatest value for you. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Keeping Informed
by Phil Schembra on July 18, 2011
Keeping informed about what is happening in the world is very important for your success in your personal life, business and among your peers. If you want to participate intelligently in workplace and social discussions, it is essential for you to know what is happening. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Effort and Willpower
by Phil Schembra on July 15, 2011
To keep yourself fit, you must be willing to put in the time, effort and willpower that is essential for eating the proper food, getting sufficient exercise and getting the right amount of rest. Fitness also requires the avoidance of substances which can harm your body and brain. Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco can not only hurt you immediately, but they can have negative long-term effects on your body and mind. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Good Habits
by Phil Schembra on July 13, 2011
If you take care of your body, that same fit body will help you be more productive in both in your personal and professional life. The good habits you form now will also help you maintain a healthy body today and for the rest of your life. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Keeping a Healthy Mind and Body
by Phil Schembra on July 11, 2011
Take care of your body now and as long as you live. Your body is essential for any mental and physical activity. Remember, your body houses the brain, which helps guide you in physical activities and, just as importantly, directs your entire study program. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
The Multi-faceted Executive
by Phil Schembra on July 08, 2011
An executive is, first and foremost, a manager of human, physical and financial resources for the purpose of achieving the mission, the goals and the short- and long-range objectives of the business. This is a large order and, in order to carry out that responsibility successfully, the executive must be many things to many people - in and out of the company. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Important Decisions
by Phil Schembra on July 06, 2011
When an important decision must be made, ask the associates to take an opposing view and come up with all the reasons that decision should not be made. Other techniques may include exposure to meeting with other departments, asking for written advice regarding specific operating matters, expanding decision-making authority, and opportunities to attend management development programs at business schools. Commendations and praise are good for self-confidence morale. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Developing Associates
by Phil Schembra on July 04, 2011
Because the development of associates is so critical to the future of the business, the supervisor should be creative in thinking of ways to provide associates with greater opportunities for learning. One favorite device is playing "devil's advocate." When an important decision must be made, ask the associates to take an opposing view and come up with all the reasons that decision should not be made. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Self-motivation
by Phil Schembra on July 01, 2011
Self-motivation requires that you set an objective that is very important to you and let it act like a magnet, drawing you to it every day. If you make your goal too easy to reach, you will do less than you can. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Get Going Again
by Phil Schembra on June 29, 2011
There will be times when you have done extremely well and you have a letdown because the urgency to continue is not so great. At such times, you must set your goal higher and get going again. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Are You Prepared To Motivate Yourself?
by Phil Schembra on June 27, 2011
There will be many times in your career when you will have to get yourself going. In those times it will be necessary to convert "can do" to "will do." At moments when you learn that you haven't done well, or when your performance is below expectations, you must go back with increased enthusiasm to try again. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Attitude, Image and Motivation
by Phil Schembra on June 24, 2011
A positive mental attitude, a good self-image and strong motivation are keys to feeling good about yourself. Be sure to take full advantage of all learning experiences this will help make you feel good about yourself. Don't rationalize doing things wrong because "everybody else does it." If your economic objective requires that you do something you don't enjoy doing, make that time productive by doing what the assignment requires. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Confidence
by Phil Schembra on June 22, 2011
Some people put themselves down because they lack confidence, have a fear of failure, or are afraid they won't be able to live up to others' expectations. In many cases, these are people who are better able to give a good account of themselves than most. So don't sell yourself short. Avoid self-deprecation; it can be habit-forming. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Attitude, Image and Motivation
by Phil Schembra on June 20, 2011
Economic necessity frequently requires that people earn their living doing work other than what they enjoy most. Consider the positive aspects of the economic benefits and work hard to prepare yourself for possible change in direction. In the meantime, get satisfaction from doing the best job you are capable of doing. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Ethical or Unethical
by Phil Schembra on June 17, 2011
Don't expect extra rewards for doing what you are expected to do. Ethical or unethical behavior is always the result of a personal decision. It doesn't just happen. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
The Decision Bridge
by Phil Schembra on June 15, 2011
Cross the decision bridge from values to behavior being certain to take your values with you. Assume responsibility. Don't blame someone else for a decision which you have made. Don't pretend to be a "victim." Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Values
by Phil Schembra on June 13, 2011
Act like the person you want people to think you are. Be true to yourself. Don't kid yourself by justifying doing something wrong because you want to do it all or because "everybody does it." Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Self Confidence
by Phil Schembra on June 10, 2011
Self-confidence and motivation based on proven accomplishments are sources of a positive mental attitude and positive self-image. Be motivated to do some things, even trivial, extremely well so that you can generate enough self-confidence to form the beginning of a positive attitude and image. Take AIM on excellence. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Positive Attitude
by Phil Schembra on June 08, 2011
You don't have to be successful to have a positive attitude or self-image. But a positive attitude and self-image can be factors in being successful. If you are motivated to take the steps necessary to do things well, you will be on the road to a positive attitude and self-image, and thereby improve your chances for success. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Attitude, Image and Motivation
by Phil Schembra on June 06, 2011
Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and then seek ways to correct weaknesses or make improvements in those things that are important to you. Courses of instruction, practice, reading or listening and viewing are now available for almost any skill required today. So take AIM on improvement.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Personal Benefits
by Phil Schembra on June 01, 2011
Bribery is similar to conflict of interest in that a person receives a personal benefit for doing other than his duty. The difference in bribery is that the quid pro quo is usually bargained for and agreed to in advance. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Ethical Issues
by Phil Schembra on May 30, 2011
There are many examples of conflict of interest. A manager hires a relative who may not be the best qualified for the job. (This is also called nepotism.) A buyer owns a substantial amount of stock in a company with whom he does business or may do business. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Ethical Breach
by Phil Schembra on May 27, 2011
By definition, an ethical breach requires knowledge of a particular action and a decision to take such an action, even when the decision may be to do nothing. There can be no ethical breach without a decision. When you make a decision, it is important that you give proper consideration to ethical issues. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Identify and Access
by Phil Schembra on May 25, 2011
In some cases additional information is required, and it is important that all sources of information be identified and accessed as needed. If the potential consequences are dramatic, it is useful to get advice - from associates, supervisors, peers and even outside consultants. But, be honest with yourself and do not take this step just to delay having to put yourself on the line. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Pros and Cons
by Phil Schembra on May 23, 2011
Once the alternatives have been identified, the executive must carefully consider the pros and cons of each. Unless the building is burning down, this step should be taken and explored thoroughly. It is important to be aware of all the reasons a particular decision should not be made. In this regard, it is sometimes helpful to have a trusted staff member play the role of devil's advocate to ensure that negatives have been taken into account. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Ethical Issues
by Phil Schembra on May 20, 2011
If there is an ethical issue involved in the decision-making process, it is only one of the many factors to be considered. In some cases, the ultimate "right" decision will not necessarily be the best ethical course of action, or may require a choice between two ethical courses or between two unethical courses of action. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Assessing The Facts
by Phil Schembra on May 18, 2011
For most people, in most decisions, the mind and brain, relying on experience and knowledge of the business, have been trained to consider the relevant factors rather quickly. More complex decisions frequently involve a more elaborate process for identifying the alternatives, assessing the factors, evaluating the potential impact and reaching an appropriate conclusion. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Making Decisions
by Phil Schembra on May 16, 2011
When managing human, physical and financial resources, every supervisor, manager and executive is required to make many decisions on a daily basis. This is usually a rather simple and uncomplicated activity. It normally involves assessing and weighing relevant factors and issues and determining a course of action - or inaction, as the case may be. Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Ethical Issues
by Phil Schembra on May 13, 2011
One of the objectives of THE TOTAL PERSON® life learning program is to help you in your future decision-making process. This is usually a rather simple, uncomplicated activity. It normally involves assessing and weighing relevant factors and issues, and determining a course of action - or inaction, as the case may be.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Doing it Right
by Phil Schembra on May 11, 2011
Doing it right should always be your goal and objective, and you can take satisfaction from knowing that you are trying. For some, regardless of whether or not they are able to do it right, the effort to try to do it right, itself, becomes a form of achieved excellence. So be persistent in your efforts to achieve excellence.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Defining and Achieving Excellence
by Phil Schembra on May 09, 2011
The desire and effort to achieve excellence are marks of self-respect. The actual achievement will add the elements of confidence and satisfaction, which will bring about the respect of others.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Your Job Performance
by Phil Schembra on May 06, 2011
Being adept, comfortable and at ease with the use of numbers is another skill that will enhance your performance on the job. There is no important business activity today, which does not rely, to some extent, on numbers for measurement, analyzing, evaluating and, finally, expressing results. While modern electronic equipment can do calculations at split second speeds, inputting the right number and interpreting the results are essential. It is important to be able to present numeric information so that it will be meaningful and unambiguous.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Your Image and Impression
by Phil Schembra on May 04, 2011
Oral communication gives you the greatest opportunity to make a good impression. In order to effectively articulate complex ideas or anecdotes, use proper grammar, good diction, good pronunciation and the right words. This will do wonders for your image and the impressions you make. Fortunately, this is a skill you can personally do something about. You can get help or go to school to fine-tune this skill.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Making a Good Impression
by Phil Schembra on May 02, 2011
Far beyond the factor of appearance, it is important that attention be paid to achieving excellence in certain essential skills. Chief among these is the effective use of the language in both oral and written presentations. In written communications others have a great opportunity to study what you have done. They may not note how good it is, but they will fault mistakes.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Making a Good Impression
by Phil Schembra on April 29, 2011
For most people it is natural to want to make a good impression on others. First impressions are frequently the result of your appearance, your handshake, the sound of your voice or your words. Resolve to do these things right so you will not have to make a "first impression" twice.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Wanting to Do it Right
by Phil Schembra on April 27, 2011
Excellence in one area of activity rubs off on other areas because wanting to do it right becomes a state of mind. You will be surprised at how quickly it will transfer, for example, from letter writing to physical exercise because of the satisfaction and benefits derived from feeling good about whatever you are doing.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Defining and Achieving Excellence
by Phil Schembra on April 25, 2011
Practice is a form of preparation. If you fail to concentrate and allow yourself to be distracted, you will not do it right and you certainly won't do it right the first time. EXCELLENCE is the results of that practice.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Good Listener
by Phil Schembra on April 22, 2011
While we think of speech and the pen as the most important tools of communication, let's not forget the ears and the eyes. If one hears but doesn't listen, or looks but doesn't see, one cannot be a truly good communicator. A good listener usually creates a very good impression on those who are sending messages.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
The Intended Message
by Phil Schembra on April 20, 2011
One of the best ways to insure that the intended message is received and understood is to be certain to put one's self in the receiver's position before sending the message. Then, use words, expressions or gestures that cannot be misunderstood. As a final assurance, one can always ask the receiver whether the message is clear and understood.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Effective Communication
by Phil Schembra on April 18, 2011
Sending a message does not necessarily mean transmitting a physical thing, such as a letter, email or text message. The message can be "sent" verbally or by sign language. It can be a nod of the head or a shaking of the hand. It can be a turning of the palms of the hands or the shaking of a finger. These and other devices are ways of communicating.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Defining and Achieving Excellence
by Phil Schembra on April 15, 2011
Excellence is "doing it right." Efficiency plus excellence is "doing it right the first time." It's as simple as that. Combined they are the "E" factor. It will be the standard by which all of your activities and performances can be measured.
Doing it right does not necessarily mean doing the best you can. The best you can may not be good enough; or it may be more than is needed. Excellence means determining what is needed and then meeting that need completely.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Keeping Informed
by Phil Schembra on April 13, 2011
The executive should instruct the associate to keep the executive informed of all important developments via regular reports and/or brief notes on an irregular basis, or by telephone when time is of the essence.
The associate should be instructed that in the rare cases when a decision has been made with the executive's agreement, it should not be changed without the executive's agreement.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Delegation and Team Building
by Phil Schembra on April 11, 2011
It is important that the associate be given guidelines for areas in which the authority is given, so that no one steps on someone else's toes or goes beyond the scope of the delegation.
The executive must reassure the associate that it will not be a mark of weakness if it is necessary, from time to time, for the associate to review particularly difficult decisions with the executive. Conversely, it must be made perfectly clear that this procedure should not be abused.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Provision and Stipulations
by Phil Schembra on April 08, 2011
The executive can delegate authority, but not responsibility for things for which he or she is held responsible by the supervisor. As the saying goes, "The buck stops here". The associate can, however, be held responsible to the executive for those matters covered by the delegation of authority.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Delegation of Authority
by Phil Schembra on April 06, 2011
It is necessary that associates be given authority to make certain operating decisions (and, in some cases, policy decisions) within the areas of their expertise and responsibilities. This delegation of authority will achieve a number of important benefits:
1. Speed up operations by eliminating needless communication.
2. Promote growth and development of associates.
3. Improve the results by having decision makers on the firing line.
4. Free up the executive to devote time to policy and major operating plans.
5. Encourage associates to resolve problems with their associates through discussions among themselves and reserving, for their boss, only the settlement of those matters upon which they can't agree.Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Delegation and Team Building
by Phil Schembra on April 04, 2011
An executive exists only because an organization exists and it is the executive's responsibility to make certain that the organization carries out its objectives. The executive must be certain that policy is established and announced to all associates. Because of the many responsibilities of the executive, he or she cannot hope to make all decisions covering the organization's objectives - neither time, nor energy, nor expertise will permit it.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Don't Justify It!
by Phil Schembra on April 01, 2011
Don't justify doing something wrong because everyone else does it. Your lack of respect for everyone else will transfer to a lack of respect for yourself, which is a sure path to a loss of positive self-image.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Strength & Weaknesses
by Phil Schembra on March 30, 2011
Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, and then seek ways to correct weaknesses and make improvements in those things that are important to you. There are courses of instruction, available in various formats that you can purchase to improve almost any skill you may need.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
How's Your Attitude?
by Phil Schembra on March 28, 2011
Self-confidence and motivation that are based on proven accomplishments are sources of positive mental attitude and self-image. Be motivated to do something of your own choosing extremely well. This is a sure way to build a more positive attitude and image.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Mental Building Blocks
by Phil Schembra on March 25, 2011
There are three mental building blocks that will help you feel good about yourself: a positive attitude, a good self-image and a strong motivation. If you already have them, you can put them to work to accomplish bigger and better things.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
How's Your Attitude?
by Phil Schembra on March 23, 2011
How you feel about yourself is a key factor that will determine the level of your success. If you feel good about yourself, you will be able to approach your personal relationships and activities with confidence and self-assurance.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Time Management
by Phil Schembra on March 21, 2011
If you are a manager or supervisor, you will find that being punctual delivers a strong message to associates. It may also give them an opportunity to have a chat with "the boss" before people or the flow of operations interferes.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL EXECUTIVE® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
It's Your Responsibility
by Phil Schembra on March 18, 2011
Part of the cost of going for it is the task of taking care of your body and mind. It is your responsibility to keep physically fit and mentally alert. You must also stay on task, meet your responsibilities, and actively participate in all the things that will help you be the best you can be.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
What will it cost you to go for it?
by Phil Schembra on March 16, 2011
First, you have to want to be a total person who is eager to move forward in every way. Then, you must be prepared to pay the cost through discipline and hard work.
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Are You Prepared To Go For It?
by Phil Schembra on March 14, 2011
Some people muddle through life, sliding by with the least effort it takes to get through the day. They are the losers! The total person will take full advantage of every opportunity for growth and self-development. They are the winners!
Copyright© 2011 THE TOTAL PERSON® innovative life learning program integrated within a user friendly weekly planner.
Time is on Your Side
by Phil Schembra on March 11, 2011
Time is on your side - as long as you use it wisely. Remember that time devoted to planning and thinking can be every bit as productive as time devoted to doing. The important thing is to allow the appropriate amount of time for each of the activities that are important in your life, education, and work.
Time Management
by Phil Schembra on March 09, 2011
Time is the essential dimension in which all thought and activity take place. No thought or activity is possible without it. It cannot be stored or accumulated; it must be used as it occurs. If you don’t use it as it becomes available, it passes and is gone forever.
National Football League Testimonial
by Phil Schembra on March 09, 2011
Ray Anderson, Executive Vice President of Football Operations for the National Football League provided a testimonial for Hilton Head Island Performance Group, Inc., producers, for the past three years, of the NFL High School Player Development (HSPD) Life Skills Program.
“The NFL High School Player Development Program sponsored by the National Guard is a significant program that provides student-athletes with a way to channel their hard work and determination into a pattern of lifetime success on and off the field. Your effort in designing the HSPD Student and Coach Planners, which include life skills material throughout, has been well received. These planners help student-athletes improve their academic and organizational skills as well as plant the seed of development into a lifelong learner.”
Wise and Thrifty Use of Time
by Phil Schembra on March 09, 2011
It is important that wise and thrifty use of time be a regular part of your thinking and planning. As a result, time management becomes not only a tool for how to use your time, but also a means for preventing its loss or waste.