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Entrepreneurs

Top 15 Entrepreneurship Resources to Boost Your Success

The 21st century has brought great new opportunities for entrepreneurs. The digital revolution has completely changed the way we live -- and the landscape for aspiring CEOs and innovators. However, the world is also moving faster than ever, and the competition is thick, so you have to gain every advantage you can get to turn your passion or idea into a sustainable business. Entrepreneurship requires an unvanquished spirit of curiosity, an openness to learning, a letting go of OldCo so you're free to create NewCo. – Michael E. Gerber This is where this guide comes in. We've outlined the 15 best resources on entrepreneurship to help you acquire the tools and knowledge you need to start your entrepreneurial journey (and keep it going). Whether you're looking to work remotely as a freelancer or want to turn your passion into a career, the resources below will help you get there. 1. Personality Traits that Successful Entrepreneurs Value More than all Others If you want to know what the absolute most important traits and skills are to develop as an entrepreneur, look no further. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, this will tell you everything you need to know about what makes a successful entrepreneur tick. Read here: 5 Personality Traits that Successful Entrepreneurs Value More than all Others 2. How To Find Your Passion If you haven’t yet found your calling, it’s important to do that first before venturing off into any long-term business effort. That’s not just because you shouldn’t settle for anything less than doing what you love (after all, why become an entrepreneur if you’re doing that?), but also because you’ll never be able to maintain the energy and motivation to get passed tough challenges without this passion to drive you. Read here: How To Find Your Passion 3. Dangerous Misconceptions About Entrepreneurship That You Should Know About If you’re relatively new to entrepreneurship, there are some dangerous misconceptions that can hold you and your entrepreneurial efforts back which won’t be immediately obvious. Learn what those misconceptions are and how to keep from falling victim to them by reading this. Read here: Dangerous Misconceptions About Entrepreneurship That You Should Know About 4. How to Build a Brand in the Digital Age — An Entrepreneur’s Starter Guide With social media, building a strong brand is more important than ever before. But if you don’t know anything about what it takes to build a brand, don’t worry, this will help you figure out everything you need to get started. Read here: How to Build a Brand in the Digital Age — An Entrepreneur’s Starter Guide 5. Things You Need to Know If You Want to Be an Entrepreneur If you want to be an entrepreneur, there are a few things that you really need to know. I can’t stress these points enough– if you have dreams or plans of becoming (or are already) an entrepreneur, you need to read this sooner than later. Read here: 6 Things You Need to Know If You Want to Be an Entrepreneur 6. The 3 Questions No Entrepreneur Wants to Ask (but You Must) If you want to build a long and fruitful self-employed career, there are three critically important questions you must ask yourself. This is yet another thing you really can’t put off, as it affects your entire path through entrepreneurship in several critical ways. But, the good news is, if you can be ready for these things ahead of time, you’ll be far better prepared. Read here: The 3 Questions No Entrepreneur Wants to Ask (but You Must) 7. With Grace and Grit: A Guide to Sticking it Out for Entrepreneurs If you haven’t already figured it out yet, entrepreneurship is tough -- really tough. You need to have the right amount of toughness to get through the inevitable challenges you’ll face along the way. Building resilience is key. Read here: With Grace and Grit: A Guide to Sticking it Out for Entrepreneurs 8. Why Entrepreneurship Is an Effective Path to Happiness (and How to Get Started) Aspiring business leaders have more opportunities than ever, but the path to success is also very different from what it used to be. People who might not otherwise have considered themselves entrepreneurs are now deciding to take this path because starting a business gives them the opportunity to do what they love and live on their own terms. Read here: Why Entrepreneurship Is an Effective Path to Happiness (and How to Get Started) 9. Entrepreneurship and the Architecture of Success: Setting Smart Long-Term Goals Entrepreneurship is a long-term game. If you hope to find success in your chosen endeavor, you need to have a well-defined plan and the structure to make that plan a reality. Read here: Entrepreneurship and the Architecture of Success: Setting Smart Long-Term Goals 10. Hacks Highly Successful Entrepreneurs Use to Stay Laser-Focused Are you a seasoned entrepreneur looking for some extra tips for staying focused? Making your vision a reality is hard and requires a laser focus over a very long period of time. Fortunately, there are some simple hacks that can help you keep your eyes on the prize. Read here: 5 Hacks Highly Successful Entrepreneurs Use to Stay Laser-Focused 11. The Best Free AI On The MarketThis seems to be a more brazen suggestion as there is all sorts of controversy surrounding this new TOOL that has been released. However, technology is constantly improving and just as the phone became an essential part of life, so will AI. If you want to truly level up your game you need to learn how to do the unexpected before its expected of you.Read here: How to efficiently make prompts and utilize artificial intelligence12. Trello: The Perfect OrganizerStay organized and boost productivity with Trello! Manage projects, collaborate with your team, and track tasks effortlessly. With its easy-to-use interface and powerful integrations, Trello keeps everything in one place, helping you work smarter and faster. Try it today!Read here: The main site and number one recommendation for team organization Man working his way up 13. Canva: Make Advertisement EasyCreate stunning visuals effortlessly with Canva! Design professional graphics, social media posts, presentations, and more—no design skills required. With easy-to-use templates and powerful tools, Canva helps you bring your ideas to life. Start designing today!Read here: Make Advertising Easy And Effortless14. Google Analytics: It's the perfect observer of success, see where you struggle and where you thriveUnlock powerful insights with Google Analytics! Track website performance, measure traffic, and understand user behavior to optimize your online presence. Make data-driven decisions and grow your business with ease. Start using Google Analytics today to boost your success!Read here: Google Analytics Lets You Look Into Your Weak Points And Work On Them15. Hootsuite – Manage and schedule your social media posts across multiple platforms in one place.Simplify your social media management with Hootsuite! Schedule, track, and manage posts across multiple platforms all in one place. Save time, increase engagement, and streamline your strategy with powerful analytics. Try Hootsuite today and elevate your social presence!Read here: Schedule Your Posts And Manage Your Releases, Get To The Top And Stay There

Young Boy Sobs in the Middle of a Store - Little Did He Know Shaquille ONeal Was About to Teach Him a Lesson
Everyday Heroes

Young Boy Sobs in the Middle of a Store - Little Did He Know Shaquille ONeal Was About to Teach Him a Lesson

Despite being one of the most legendary basketball players of all time, Shaquille O'Neal doesn't lose sight of the little things. In a heartwarming encounter, the 51-year-old O'Neal found himself in a store where he crossed paths with a young fan named Zion. When O'Neal noticed the boy in tears, his curiosity and compassion took over, and he approached to understand what was troubling him. Little did Zion know, he was about to receive a lesson in listening to parents that he would never forget.How Shaquille O’Neal Encouraged a Young Boy As Zion shared his story, O'Neal listened attentively, offering his support and guidance. Recognizing the importance of making amends, O'Neal encouraged Zion to apologize and embrace his dad with a heartfelt hug. This act of kindness alone would have left a lasting impression, but O'Neal's generosity didn't stop there.While Zion's family had initially planned on purchasing a coat for him, O'Neal went above and beyond by offering to buy the young fan a brand-new pair of shoes. Together, they embarked on a special shopping journey, with O'Neal assisting Zion in finding the perfect pair. Throughout the outing, Zion couldn't contain his excitement as he proudly shared videos of himself playing basketball, earning admiration and praise from the superstar himself. It was a day that Zion would cherish forever.In this world filled with news of negativity and division, stories like these remind us of the power of compassion and the positive impact one person can have on another. How Shaquille O’Neal Proved He’s the Best Role ModelShaquille O'Neal's genuine concern for a young fan's well-being and his willingness to go the extra mile left an indelible mark on Zion's heart. It serves as a beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness can make a world of difference in someone's life.In the end, it's not just about the gift of new shoes or the basketball superstar's presence; it's about the emotional connection, the empathy, and the lessons learned in that store aisle. Shaquille O'Neal, with his larger-than-life persona, exemplified the qualities of a true role model, demonstrating that even the smallest gestures of compassion can create ripples of joy and inspiration.As we navigate through our own lives, let us remember the power we hold to make a positive impact on those around us. Whether it's offering a listening ear, extending a helping hand, or showing empathy and understanding, we can all be a Shaq in someone's life, brightening their day and leaving an imprint of kindness that will be remembered for years to come.More Good Shaq News From Goalcast:12-Year-Old Unable to Leave the Hospital After Being Shot – So, Shaquille O’Neal Buys Him a New HouseShaquille O’Neal’s Father Made a Dying Wish – and Leaves His Family With a Priceless GiftShaq Noticed a Family of 11 Was Having Car Trouble – And Did Something Unbelievable

Woman Diagnosed With Rare Genetic Disorder Wonders if Shell Ever Find Love - Then One Man Steps in With the Answer
Uplifting News

Woman Diagnosed With Rare Genetic Disorder Wonders if Shell Ever Find Love - Then One Man Steps in With the Answer

Teenage volleyball games are supposed to end one of two ways: winning or losing. They aren’t supposed to end with a life-changing diagnosis. McKinnon Galloway was 16 years old when she got hit in the head by a volleyball during a high school game. She had a concussion, so she went to the hospital for a scan. It was then that healthcare workers found out that she had a number of benign brain tumors -- and a rare genetic disorder called NF2. How One Mom Responded to Her Daughter’s DiagnosisPhoto by cottonbro studioMcKinnon’s mother Tracy was stunned and scared for her daughter. The disorder, officially called neurofibromatosis type 2, meant that McKinnon would probably lose her hearing, struggle with balance, and suffer from other “life-spoiling” issues caused by tumors damaging essential nerves in the brain. The disorder only affects 25,000 people worldwide -- making it extremely rare. "It can cause deafness, blindness, inability to swallow, affect the ability to walk, balance issues — a lot. These tumors can occur on any nerve in the body, anywhere in the body. And some people have thousands of them. I was devastated."Doctors guessed that McKinnon would be deaf before graduating high school and that her quality of life would continue to decline. Tracy made a private vow not to let McKinnon’s life be ruined, or even defined, by the diagnosis. Why One Woman Thought She Would Never Find LoveLuckily, the doctors were wrong about McKinnon’s hearing. She was able to hear until the end of high school, and through college. There, she had an almost textbook experience including frat parties and late nights studying. The only thing missing was a romantic life. McKinnon was reserved and afraid to be vulnerable, fearing that opening up about her disorder would make anybody who was interested in her run for the hills. Deep down, she was afraid she would never find love. "When you get diagnosed with a chronic illness, one of your first thoughts is, 'I have so much baggage, who is going to ever love me?'" she confessed.Despite all her worries and reservations, McKinnon accepted when Brandon Kwiatek, a fraternity brother and friend, asked her to be his date to a formal “mountain weekend.” He knew she had had brain surgery, but he didn’t know anything about her diagnosis. Understandably, McKinnon wasn’t rushing to tell him about it.Eventually, McKinnon did tell Brandon about her health. He researched the condition and came to a heartwarming conclusion -- he wanted to be with McKinnon anyway. "If you really, really truly got to know McKinnon, I mean, it's so clear she's a person that's hard not to love," Brandon said.How One Woman Didn’t Allow Her Life to Slow Down After college, McKinnon was elected ambassador for the Children's Tumor Foundation, where her mother also served as board president. Through this job, she fulfilled a lifelong dream of moving to New York City and pursuing meaningful work lobbying for more clinical trials to find a cure for NF2.When COVID hit in 2020, McKinnon decided to head back home. Even though she had been fighting the odds for many years, her hearing was starting to diminish and she had undergone several brain surgeries. She felt she wanted to be close to home. There, Brandon asked her to move in with him. He didn’t feel rushed to get married, but McKinnon wasn’t shy about letting him know what she wanted. Soon, McKinnon lost her hearing all together. She was put in a position of having to choose between mobility in her face and her hearing and she chose her face. She underwent yet another surgery and woke up deaf. She and Brandon learned and practiced sign language together.How a Diagnosis Didn’t Stop One Couple From Being TogetherUnbeknownst to McKinnon, Brandon took her mother Tracy out for dinner and asked for her daughter’s hand in marriage. Tracy agreed excitedly, but warned that their life together wouldn’t be easy."You understand, this is not going to be the normal journey that couples have, and it's going to have some difficult times, but you'll be having some really fulfilling times. You will learn things that other people will never have the opportunity to learn about real love," Tracy told Brandon. On January 1st, one year after McKinnon lost her hearing, Brandon proposed. "We just went through so much last year, and we really wanted to start off the new year on a very positive note," McKinnon recalls about the trip. "When I came out [of the shower] and felt the rose petals under my toes, it put a smile on my face, because Brandon always does nice things, and I just thought it was one of his nice things. But my favorite part," she continues, "was when I looked up from the rose petals, and saw him standing there with a sign language shirt on that said 'love.' And he had gotten this wooden rose petal, and it said, 'Will you marry me?' on it, just to make sure I understood. And he got down on one knee."McKinnon and Brandon’s love story is beautiful and its message is simple: everyone deserves love. No matter the diagnosis, there is someone out there for everyone. Never let your limitations define you, that is the message McKinnon wants everybody to understand -- and it’s one she learned from her mom. "I hope my perspective on life gives others a chance to see that anything is possible. [My mom] has never once made me feel that my dreams are not possible because of my illness," McKinnon said.More from Goalcast:Men Warn They Would Break Up With Plus Size Woman if She Didn’t Lose Weight – But One Personal Trainer Gets Down on One KneeWife Creates “Dating Profile” for Her Handsome Husband of 20 Years — You Won’t Believe the Heartbreaking Reason Why

Dad Weighing 274 Pounds Decides to Lose Weight for a Unique Purpose - To Become an Organ Donor for His Son
Uplifting News

Dad Weighing 274 Pounds Decides to Lose Weight for a Unique Purpose - To Become an Organ Donor for His Son

A strong mind and clear intentions can accomplish the impossible. One Canadian father showed his determination through a gruelling weight-loss regimen to help his son however he can.One year ago, Daniel Kablutsiak and his wife were searching for an organ donor for their son, Hunter. Hunter was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney disease in 2020. He was managing the disease as best as he could but the medication -- 10 pills a day -- took a toll on his body and energy. “He's doing just fine, but with all these pills, that drains his energy easily compared to normal teenager,” Daniel said. Why One Father Decided to Lose WeightPhoto by William ChoquetteHunter needed a new kidney. His father, Daniel, knew he was a blood type match and could be a potential donor, but there was one problem. Daniel was 274 pounds and classified as overweight. Some of Hunter’s siblings were also potential donors but Daniel did not want to have to put them through surgery. To be the donor, Daniel would have to bring his weight down under 200 pounds.“So I took action,” Daniel said. He embarked on a year-long journey to become eligible. Daniel focused on two things: diet and exercise. He cut sugar out of his diet, and started walking at least five kilometres each day. When the temperature dropped below zero, or when there were polar bears in the area — a common occurrence in Arviat, Nunavut — he'd go to the gym to get his work in. “I was determined. I really love him, and I put my mind into it — 'I'm going to do it,' and I went at it,” he said.Over the next year, medication kept Hunter stable while Daniel chipped away at his goal of saving his son’s life. Roughly 13 months after Daniel began his weight-loss training, he weighed in at 195 pounds. He was officially eligible to donate his kidney to Hunter.How One Man Found Purpose in His Weight Loss JourneyDaniel credits his wife, Francine, for being his “coach” and keeping him motivated, but Francine witnessed his determination and believes he did it on his own. “He did most of it by himself, I'd say,” Francine said. “He came a long way. Wasn't easy for him. I couldn't have been more proud for him.”The year-long journey Daniel committed to proved to be a breath of fresh air for Hunter and the whole family. “His spirit went up, his energy, and I can see the glow in his face like some kind of relief or something,” Daniel said.With the days of being overweight behind him, Daniel feels better than ever. He was able to play a lot of hockey with Hunter this year, which he couldn’t do a year ago. The extra weight was giving him too much knee trouble. The inspiration he has given his children is priceless and he is committed to continue on this healthier path. Daniel Kablutisak found purpose in his training. He stayed determined for 13 months straight so that he could save his son. In the end, he not only improved his son’s quality of life, but his own in the process.More from Goalcast:Men Warn They Would Break Up With Plus Size Woman if She Didn’t Lose Weight – But One Personal Trainer Gets Down on One KneeWoman Ruthlessly Bullied By Dance Teachers For Being Overweight Breaks Stereotypes And Gets The Last LaughLoyal Young Man Steps In With Best Response Girlfriend After Bully Makes Comment on Her Weight

Woman Becomes Teacher of the Year - Says Its All Because of One Good Thing'
Uplifting News

Woman Becomes Teacher of the Year - Says Its All Because of One Good Thing'

Oklahoma teacher Rebecka Petersen decided to add a little joy to her classroom. Her first year of teaching wasn’t without its struggles, but she remembered why she was there and she wanted to consciously put those positive thoughts at the forefront of her mind. So she created the One Good Thing blog.It was a simple thing, really. Every evening, she would write on her blog, chronicling “one good thing” that had happened at school that day. She gave her blog the tagline: Every day may not be good, but there is one good thing in every day.She encouraged her students to do the same in handwritten journals. Just a few minutes a day to reflect on something good that happened — that would be enough, she insisted.Petersen is not a language arts teacher. She’s not a humanities teacher, either. Petersen teaches math at Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Still, she encourages her students to write and reflect, knowing it will make them happier and more motivated to learn.How One Woman Became the 2023 Oklahoma Teacher of the YearPhoto by Yan KrukauDuring her eleven years in Union’s classrooms, Rebecka Petersen has tried to make math exciting and relevant for all of her students, while recognizing that some students find the subject difficult and abstract. From algebra to calculus, her efforts to make math accessible made her the 2023 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year. From there, she made the cut to become one of the top five teachers in the nation— and eventually won the title of 2023 Teacher of the Year given by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO).On their website, the CCSSO explains that their National Teacher of the Year Program “identifies exceptional educators across the country, celebrates their work in and outside the classroom and offers them a one-of-a-kind professional development opportunity.” Since receiving the state award, Petersen has already travelled all over Oklahoma, talking to teachers about bringing joy back into classrooms. Now, she looks forward to a year of networking and engaging with teachers across the country, participating in policy discussions at the state and national level, and advocating for students.Oklahoma Education Association President Katherine Bishop says that Petersen is the right person for the job: “She is truly passionate about the power of teachers and what it means to be a leader for your students and the community.”How One Teacher Proves the Importance of Finding Joy in Each Day Petersen credits that to the fact that she herself had many supportive teachers during her school years. They inspired her to help her students find the joy in learning. And her One Good Thing blog keeps that momentum going. She hopes her students’ daily journals will allow them to chronicle their own personal successes, no matter if they’re big or small.“Her ability to tap into students’ joy and form authentic bonds and her dedication to making learning truly accessible embodies what it means to be an outstanding educator,” said Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association.Petersen’s goals for this year include recognizing and emphasizing the positive experiences students have not only with math but with learning in general, in classrooms across the country. She hopes these stories will attract new teachers to the profession and give energy to current ones. In many places in the country, the teaching profession is indeed in crisis. It’s important to Petersen that people to reflect on the good experiences they have in school. Most of us have a favorite teacher or a school experience that changed our lives for the better. If we shared those and reflected more on them, could we, too, spread joy to teachers and students everywhere?

15 Jim Rohn Quotes to Keep You Going When You Feel Demotivated
Authors

15 Jim Rohn Quotes to Keep You Going When You Feel Demotivated

Jim Rohn was an author, entrepreneur and a highly influential motivational speaker who wrote more than 25 inspiring and motivational books.The Art of Exceptional Living and Challenge to Succeed are two of the books that propelled Rohn to international fame.Posted by GoalcastRohn's life is a great example of determination’s true power. He started from the bottom, and his ambition and hard work led him to the path of success. He spent no less than 40 years on improving himself and helping millions of others do the same. His profound and inspiring speeches brought comfort and ignited hope in the hearts of his audience.Jim Rohn died in 2009, but his ideas continue to broaden the boundaries of possibility and help people gain the motivation to break out of any slump.Here are 15 Jim Rohn quotes on personal development and growth.Learn how to be happy with what you have while you pursue all that you want.Don't wish it were easier. Wish you were better.If you really want to do something, you'll find a way. If you don't, you'll find an excuse.The worst thing one can do is not to try, to be aware of what one wants and not give in to it, to spend years in silent hurt wondering if something could have materialized -- never knowing.Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.Excuses are the nails used to build a house of failure.You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.The challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly.Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan.When you know what you want, and you want it bad enough, you'll find a way to get it.If you are not willing to risk the unusual, you will have to settle for the ordinary.If you don't like how things are, change it. You are not a tree.Motivation alone is not enough. If you have an idiot and you motivate him, now you have a motivated idiot.

Stranger Take Homeless 20-Year-Old to Target for New Clothes - Then He Reveals Another Big Surprise
Uplifting News

Stranger Take Homeless 20-Year-Old to Target for New Clothes - Then He Reveals Another Big Surprise

Mark Reininga first met Kieran and his mom on the streets of Los Angeles, and after learning they had been living on the streets, decided to help them in a serious way. How One Stranger Stepped in to Help a Homeless FamilyKieran was 20 years old at the time, and he and his mother had been homeless for 6 months when they met Mark. Mark was drawn to Kieran's spirit, and after learning that he had dreams of being a game developer, decided to use his platform to help make that a possibility for Kieran. Mark, previously a professional snowboarder, is now an actor and YouTuber who posts videos online. Knowing he could do more with his thousands of followers than he could on his own, he reached out to them for help.In the video posted above, Mark documents his journey helping Kieran towards his goal. At first, the two get in Mark's car to go to Target, where Kieran thinks he is simply going to get some new clothes. What happens after will warm your heart. People often think of just throwing money at a cause, but Mark went above and beyond to consider all of the moving parts necessary in working towards the life Kieran wanted. First, he takes him shopping, where Kieran picks up dress clothes for job interviews. He even thoughtfully grabs a few items for his mother while at the store. How One Man Proved the Importance of Gratitude Mark then films him and his friends setting up a P.O. Box for Kieran, so he can apply for jobs and hear back from employers. While the two are in the car driving back from the store, Kieran shares the importance of gratitude, telling Mark and others in the car that he always remains positive, and thankful for even the smallest things. The real surprise, however, came after filming. When Mark uploaded the video to his channel, he shares a message at the end, urging viewers to join in and help Kieran and his mother raise enough money to secure an apartment. He shares a link to a fundraiser, adding that 100% of proceeds will go towards apartment rent for the two. Not long after posting the video, Mark shared an update with his followers. Kieran and his mother were able to move off the streets for good, thanks to the help of strangers from the internet! He writes that though he gave money to Kieran, he and his friends learned a valuable lesson by helping Kieran -- one of gratitude. We all have the ability to impact the lives of others, and Mark demonstrated a level of empathy all should aspire to have.

11 LeBron James Quotes to Motivate you to Take Action
Sports

11 LeBron James Quotes to Motivate you to Take Action

One of the NBA legends playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron James has gained international fame for his incredible talent.James was born in 1984 to a 16-year-old mother who struggled to raise him on her own. His mom eventually decided that is was better for him to be in a more stable family environment, allowing him to move with the family of a local football coach, who later introduced James to basketball.After becoming a superstar, the basketball star co-founded the LeBron James Family Foundation with his mother to help children and single-parent families in need.Some analysts rank James among the greatest players in NBA history. His abilities and hard work took him to the top and kept him there.He is a great player who never forgot the hard times he went through, but didn’t use them as an excuse for not becoming a shooting star. Here are 11 LeBron James quotes to motivate you and teach you about teamwork.This is a job and we want to have fun. But it's a job and we should look like we're going to work.Something just doesn't pop under your nose; you have to work for it.Sometimes your best effort just isn't good enough.Don't be afraid of failure. This is the way to succeed.I'm going to use all my tools, my God-given ability, and make the best life I can with it.I like criticism. It makes you strong.I think, team first. It allows me to succeed; it allows my team to succeed.I always say, decisions I make, I live with them. There's always ways you can correct them or ways you can do them better. At the end of the day, I live with them.There is a lot of pressure put on me, but I don't put a lot of pressure on myself.I think the reason why I'm the person I am today is because I went through those tough times when I was younger.Every night on the court I give my all, and if I'm not giving 100 percent, I criticize myself.

18 Incredible Joe Rogan Quotes to Help You Stay Motivated
Speakers

18 Incredible Joe Rogan Quotes to Help You Stay Motivated

When you think of UFC commentary, you think of Joe Rogan. While some love his exuberance behind the mic at the MMA events, others prefer funny Joe that would put up a great stand-up comedy show.Joe Rogan started his career as a stand-up comedian in 1988 and ever since then, he has approached every potentially taboo subject like religion, politics, sex, drugs or terrorism.Joe grew up without his father, as his parents divorced when he was five years old. He remembers flashes of domestic violence, but doesn’t like complaining about his past.At 13 years old he started practicing martial arts and right now Rogan holds a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This obviously makes him the most intimidating stand-up comedian out there.Since 2009, Rogan gained more fame by running one of the most popular podcasts on YouTube - The Joe Rogan Experience. Each week he invites a public figure to have a long conversation on their story and life in general.Here are 18 incredible Joe Rogan quotes to help you stay motivated.Work for that feeling that you have accomplished something…Don’t waste your time on this earth without making a mark.I love a success story, but even more than a success story; I like a dude who f***s his life up and gets his life together again story.One of the most fascinating lessons I’ve absorbed about life is that the struggle is good.That’s my only goal. Surround myself with funny people, and make sure everyone has a good time and works hard.Be cool to people. Be nice to as many people as you can. Smile to as many people as you can, and have them smile back at you.There’s a direct correlation between positive energy and positive results in the physical form.Someone else’s success does not equal a failure for you.The key to happiness doesn’t lay in numbers in a bank account but in the way we make others feel and the way they make us feel.Reality really is a theatre. There’s no other way to describe it. It’s all so nonsensical, ridiculous and chaotic.If you are the greatest, why would you go around talking about it?I truly believe that in order to truly be great at something you have to give into a certain amount of madness.Live your life like you’re the hero in your own movie.The time you spend hating on someone robs you of your own time. You are literally hating on yourself and you don’t even realize it.We define ourselves far too often by our past failures. That’s not you. You are this person right now. You’re the person who has learned from those failures.Kindness is one of the best gifts you can bestow… We know that inherently that feels great.Greatness and madness are next door neighbors and they often borrow each other’s sugar.Excellence in anything increases your potential in everything.By putting yourself in that intense form of stress, it makes regular life more peaceful.

How to Fall Asleep Fast (and Stay Asleep Longer, Too)
Mental Health

How to Fall Asleep Fast (and Stay Asleep Longer, Too)

This probably won’t come across as breaking news, but sleep is important. Like, as important as water, food and shelter. In fact, consistent, and quality, sleep can improve your mental health, and may actually prolong your life. That's why it's crucial to learn how to go to sleep fast, and stay asleep.Frustratingly for too many, falling asleep and enjoying proper sleep duration are much easier said than done. Fortunately, anyone can enjoy better sleep quality. However, you may need to work at it, because, when it comes to finding out how to fall asleep fast, practice pays.That’s right, you need to practice how to fall asleep. Admittedly, it may sound silly. After all, isn’t falling asleep as natural as walking or talking? But think of it like this: You had to practice to learn how to walk and talk properly, but have you ever practiced falling asleep?Don’t worry if the answer is no. That's because enough other people have developed methods that will not only help you to fall asleep faster, but to enjoy a restful sleep.Sleep Duration: How Many Hours of Sleep Do You Need?Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from PexelsWhat does "a good night’s rest" mean, anyway? In the simplest terms, it's a night where you fall asleep fast, and stay asleep for hours. If you wake before it’s time to get out of bed, you then fall back to sleep quickly (15 or 20 minutes, at most).The number of hours of sleep merit a closer look. According to scientific data reported by Health Line, the average adult between the ages of 18 to 64 needs between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Kids need more, senior adults need less. And, frankly, almost none of us is getting enough.Figure Out How Many Hours of Sleep Makes YOU Feel GreatOf course, there's a bit of flex time. If you sleep only six and a half hours a night, yet feel great every day, then good for you. On the other hand, if you need the entirety of those nine hours to function properly when awake, no problem there. Getting healthy sleep means getting as much sleep as you need to feel rested and productive. It does not mean adhering to a strict guideline laid out by medical experts.That said, you have to figure out how much sleep you need. Pay attention to your own personal data, such as how much you slept on days you feel great. Then you can plan your bedtime around that number, reverse-engineering your routine based on wake-up time. That way you'll know you can always hit your number. Well, most of the time.Can’t Fall Asleep Quickly? It’s Probably Not a Sleep Disorder(Benjamin Torode/Getty)Remember how we talked about the need for practice? Your trouble falling asleep is probably due to a lack of practice, not because of some larger sleep issue. According to peer-reviewed studies reported by Sleep Advisor, only about 10 percent of U.S. adults suffer from chronic insomnia. That can become a medical concern, and require intervention from a professional. Chronic insomnia involves debilitating bad sleep on three or more nights out of a week in a cycle lasting three or more months.Are You Creating Your Own Obstacles to a Good Night's Sleep?The rest of us probably don't suffer from sleep disorders. Instead, we can’t fall asleep quickly enough because we’re not trying to fall asleep properly. Or else, because we have thrown up proverbial hurdles that are creating needless sleep problems. That said, up to 50 percent of American adults report at least occasional issues falling asleep and staying asleep. So, while the solutions may not be that difficult in the grand scheme of things, this is nevertheless an issue we need to fix.Thus, we’ll now move into the more specific discussion of ways to fall asleep fast. Practice one or two of these for a little while, and soon you’ll welcome bedtime each and every night.Three Methods You Can Practice to Help Fall Asleep FasterThere’s an old joke in the military that explains how soldiers can fall asleep so fast even in abjectly terrible conditions: “Carry a hundred pounds of gear up and down hills from sunrise to sunset, eating while you march, and occasionally dodging enemy bullets, and then crawl into a foxhole. You’ll be asleep in 10 seconds.”But don’t worry, that’s not the military method of falling asleep we’ll cover here. Instead, author Sharon Ackman points to a method developed by the U.S. Navy that has been proven to help people fall asleep rapidly.The Military Method for Falling Asleep Fast(James O'Neil / Getty)Here are the steps to the so-called military method of falling asleep fast:Lie down and get as comfortable as you can, then relax all of the muscles above your neck -- even your tongueRelease all tension in your shoulders, arms and handsExhale steadily and fully, relaxing your chest musclesRelax your legs, working down -- so, thighs, then calves, then ankles and feetClear your mind by picturing a comforting, easily visualized scene – think an empty beach or crackling fireSlowly repeat the words “don’t think” for about 10 secondsIf you’re not asleep after that, do those simple steps again. And again. Then back off, and try again the next night. And the next. It will take a few weeks, but if you stick with it, you will fall asleep faster than ever before.Progressive Muscle Relaxation for Falling Asleep FastNot feeling the military way to fall asleep fast? Or maybe you simply want a second tactic. Then using a progressive muscle relaxation approach can work. Also called a body scan, it's essentially a type of mindfulness meditation or sleep improvement. It relaxes your body (go figure) while also bringing your mind into the present moment, calming thoughts that may be rushing in.To do a progressive body scan relaxation, follow these steps:Lie comfortably, ideally, flat on your back, arms at sidesStart at the top of your head and consciously relax the muscles there, letting your forehead muscles loosen, the muscles in your jaw and mouth, and your tongueMove, mentally speaking, to your neck and shoulders, letting all of those muscles relaxNow pick a side of your body, and assuming you started with the left, work down – let the muscles in your left arm and hand relax, your left pectoral, release your abs (this will be more of a core relaxation, don’t get hung up on left abs!), then your left thigh, left calf, and on down to the toesRepeat the same shoulder down relaxation on the right side, again noting which muscles you are relaxing as you go, going as slowly as you canAssuming you are still awake at the end of this process, focus on staying relaxed and keep your thinking clear by putting all of your attention on your bodyYou can move down the body evenly during a body scan relaxation, meaning both arms, legs and so on at once. However, by separating the halves of yourself, you will allow for greater focus, and you will use a bit more time, which means more time spent relaxing into slumber.The 4-7-8 Breathing Method for Falling AsleepDr. Andrew Weil, a Harvard-educated physician with noted health and wellness expertise, developed this unique method for helping people to fall asleep fast. With practice, it works. Why? Because the steps involved slow and calm the nervous system, essentially tricking (or easing) your body into thinking you were about to fall asleep anyway.Here is Weil’s method, and note that as with all of these approaches, some practice may be needed.Rest the tip of your tongue against the ridge of your mouth, just behind your upper teethExhale all of the air in your lungs through your mouth, breathing out forcefully enough to make an airflow soundClose your mouth and breathe in through your nose for a four-second count, hold the breath for a seven-second count, then exhale again with enough force to make an audible breath noise, but steadily now, exhaling for eight seconds (you may need to practice this exhalation to get the timing right)Repeat the same breath cycle (in for four, hold for seven, out for eight, e.g.) four times total, then pause and breathe normally for a bit before repeating it, and repeat until you are asleep or want to give your sleep practice a rest for the night.Casual Tips That Can Help You Fall Asleep FasterPhoto by cottonbro from PexelsIf the military method for falling asleep, a mindful meditation session, or breathing exercises aren’t your cup of tea, no problem. There are plenty of other techniques you can use that will help you to fall asleep fast.Try to Stay Awake - Seriously, It Will Trick Your BodyThe first, ironically, is to try to stay awake. Provided you are at least somewhat tired, and you can lie in bed awake without your mind starting to race through thoughts, then trying to stay awake is a bit of reverse psychology. Turn out the lights, and turn on the fan or the white-noise machine (whatever your typical routine is). Get into bed, and get comfortable. But don’t close your eyes. Instead, keep them open and try to keep your mind alert -- but without specific thoughts to distract you.Your body, knowing it’s time for you to fall asleep, will start to override your mind. You may well feel your lids shutting almost unbidden. With a little luck (and better still, with a little practice) it will suddenly be morning, and you’ll feel fresh and ready to roll. Read Before Bed (But DON'T Watch TV or Browse Online)(Catherine Delahaye/Getty)Watching TV before bed? Very bad. However, reading before bed can be a great way to relax into slumber that will be of genuine sleep quality. Just make sure you're not reading on a screen (phone, tablet, etc.). Sit up while you read, and don’t lie down until your book (or magazine or paper) is on the nightstand and you are ready to fall asleep. Make sure to set down the reading material as soon as your eyes start growing heavy. If you try to finish a chapter, or even a page, despite the fatigue, you may miss the chance for rapid sleep onset. That's because your body thinks you are trying to stay up, and resets itself. Don’t fight to stay awake, even if the book is gripping. In other words, the story will still be waiting for you tomorrow. Oh, and don’t read something related to work. That is going to stress you out, and be counterproductive. Work will be waiting for you after that quality sleep that’s coming, too.Listen to Soothing Music, But Without HeadphonesListening to pleasant, soothing music is also a great way to ease yourself into asleep quickly. That doesn’t mean it needs to be all-instrumental or "New Age." Just select music isn't too upbeat or bass-heavy. Also, keep the volume low. Don’t wear earbuds or headphones, either. They can be jostled uncomfortably, and wake you up. Even worse, they can end up creating danger if a piece of hardware gets lodged in an ear or an airway. Stick to a speaker. And if you can set the music to turn off automatically sometime after you fall asleep, that’s ideal.What to Avoid if You Want to Fall Asleep QuicklyPhoto by Monstera from PexelsYou surely know the basic (common sense) things to avoid when you are trying to improve sleep quality: caffeine, screens that put off blue light, and, if at all possible, a racing mind. But there are a few others you should pass on prior to your bedtime routine that may seem a bit counterintuitive.Warm Baths or ShowersFor example, many people find a nighttime warm bath or shower relaxing. However, they can have the opposite effect than what you need to fall asleep faster. The warm water raises your body temperature just when you need it to be falling. If you really need that bedtime bath or shower, at least end with cool water so you can start the cool-down process that helps you fall asleep faster once you hit the mattress.Working Out Before BedtimeWhile strenuous exercise earlier in the day can lead to better sleep at night, because your body will be in need of the rest. However, do not exercise close to bedtime. By working out, you will speed up your nervous system and warm up your body. Neither of those is conducive to falling asleep well. Also, you’ll need to shower off, which, as we just noted can, throw a wrench in the whole sleep program.Eating Close to BedtimeAs confirmed by countless academic, medical associations and peer-reviewed journals, it’s also a good idea to avoid eating close to bedtime. The digestive process can keep you awake. This is especially true with heavily fibrous and spicy foods. Your best bet is a healthy, hearty dinner eaten well before you begin your bedtime routine.Drinking Alcohol Before BedIf you want productive, deep sleep, skip alcohol before bedtime as well. Sure, booze may make you fall asleep fast, but your sleep quality will be lousy, and you’ll likely wake up in the middle of the night. Plus, good luck feeling well-rested in the morning. A Better Bedtime Beckons(10'000 Hours/Getty)Regardless of which approach you choose to work toward falling asleep faster, know that a better night's sleep is not only possible -- it’s coming. You may not nod off in 10 seconds the first night, or the fourth, or the 14th. But even before you have mastered one or more of the sleep techniques covered here, they will begin to help you drift off faster.What You Put Into Your Sleep Routine Will Pay Off in Your Waking HoursAnd the work you put in before sleep each night will be worth the effort during your waking hours. You will have more energy, your mood will improve, you will be better able to focus, and you’ll get more done, from work to hobbies to fitness.Simply put, with more productive sleep, you will be a more productive person. You’ve got what it takes to make this happen.KEEP READING: What Is the Optimal Amount of Sleep?