Mindset

Napoleon Hill - Think and Grow Rich

In the book, "Think and Grow Rich," Napoleon Hill explores the idea that success begins with a focused mindset. After being commissioned by Andrew Carnegie, he spent countless hours meeting with the most successful people in the world to learn the “secret” behind being a success.  He then outlines 13 principles for transforming one's thoughts into tangible success; among the most notable is the power of desire. He insists that having a definite burning desire is essential for accomplishing goals. Hill also introduces the concept of the "Master Mind" group, advocating for collaborative efforts with like-minded individuals to propel success. Focused thinking, coupled with the application of faith and perseverance, allows one to manifest their desires into reality. Napoleon stresses the importance of autosuggestion, a method of affirming one's goals and beliefs persistently so that they imprint on the subconscious mind, thereby creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. This can be as simple as creating a vision board with is placed on one’s computer or cell phone as the desktop picture.  Another crucial principle is specialized knowledge; Hill encourages learning and skill development to sharpen mental faculties. Above all, Hill believes that thoughts are powerful things; by cultivating a mindset rooted in positivity and purpose, individuals can unlock extraordinary potential. His timeless strategies act as a comprehensive blueprint for anyone seeking to improve their mindset and achieve enduring success.  One can read this book many times and gleam a new insight everytime.

Physical Wellness

**The Innate Immune System: Your First Line of Defense**

When Covid hit, people with a strong immune system either didn’t have the disease or they had a very light case. That’s because the immune system is an intricate network that defends the body from illness and disease. This immune system is divided into two main parts: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system. The innate immune system serves as your body’s first line of defense, performing two primary functions: creating a barrier against external threats and identifying and eliminating pathogens that manage to break through.

The barrier function is prominently executed by the skin, which acts as a multi-layered shield. It is supported by sebaceous glands that produce an inhospitable environment for microbes and can physically remove bacteria as skin cells naturally shed. Further assisting in the defense are hair, eyelashes, sweat, and tears. Sebum, the oil secreted by hair follicles, hinders microbial growth, while sweat and tears help wash away invaders. Additionally, the mouth and nose house their own protective mechanisms. Saliva contains antibacterial and antiviral compounds. Meanwhile, the respiratory system has cilia—tiny hair-like structures that expel potential threats through rhythmic movements.

If pathogens bypass these initial barriers, white blood cells, also known as leukocytes, step in. They make up just 1% of blood cells but are powerful defenders. They travel through the body, multiplying and signaling other cells when they detect invaders, ultimately initiating an attack to eliminate the threat.

Finances  Disability

The most important asset we own is our health – our ability to get up every day and do what we love to do (we hope that is the case). It is our ability to provide the lifestyle we live for ourselves and our families that motivates us. For some, lifestyle is everything “cars or trucks”; for others it is travel. Some like to cook and enjoy entertaining, while others like to eat at different restaurants all the time so they can taste the different cuisines. But for all of us, it is our families. We start out in our work life just trying to earn enough to pay the bills. Over time, that income can far outpace just paying the bills – it can afford us a different type of lifestyle. And usually, that means both spouses are working and earning. What if something happened to one of you to the extent that you could not work – either for an elongated time or forever? What would that look like in your world? Could you continue to make the mortgage payment on that new house, or the payment on that new car? Could you continue to travel to exotic locations? Would there be enough money to even pay the PG&E and put food on the table? And what about the added expense that a prolonged disability would cause us to incur?

We insure our cars and homes and jewelry. Doesn’t it make sense to insure the biggest asset we have – our health and ability to bring home “the bacon”? I know that people would rather wait than pay out money to be used only in the event of an emergency. Life happens to us all. To what degree that will happen, what it will look like, is only anyone’s guess. There are many options when looking at “paycheck protection”. Surprisingly, it might easily fit in your budget.What happens during disability?

SomeSome people have no disability income insurance, others have it through an employer, and still others aren’t even aware if they have coverage. For nearly everyone, though, a disability could mean a significant reduction in income, or no income at all.

Contribution

Fulfilling Your Time through Enjoyable Activities**

As you reach retirement or even before when you find yourself an “empty nester” daily responsibilities shift, you may find yourself with more free time. This newfound time is an excellent opportunity to seek activities that truly resonate with your interests and enrich your life, thereby contributing indirectly to society through personal fulfillment.

Sports offer a fantastic way to keep active while enjoying social interactions. Activities such as tennis, pickleball, or cycling not only keep you physically fit but also encourage community building through shared interests. Sports bring people together, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. 

Pickleball is especially a great way to meet people, get exercise, and have fun because of the structure of the activity.  One can learn the game is as little as 15 minutes and there is not a lot of skill needed to just get started.  Games are only 11 points and most parks and recreation areas have a way to just get in line to play by placing your paddle on a paddle holder.  People trade around and play with different people so when you may be sitting out, you get a chance to meet others and find out other activities in the community.

Delving into the arts can be equally rewarding. Whether it’s experimenting with painting, honing photography skills, or trying your hand at pottery, these creative pursuits provide an outlet for self-expression. The process of creating art can be deeply satisfying and may even lead to community exhibitions or workshops where you can share your skills and inspire others.

Exploring such activities broadens your horizons and keeps you engaged. Engaging in sports and arts transforms free time into meaningful experiences. Not only do these activities enhance your personal well-being, but they also create ripple effects in society as you inspire and connect with others through shared passions. Enjoying your time to the fullest is a rewarding way to contribute to the vibrancy of the community around you.