Austin and I have been discussing what else I need to put on this website. We both agree that this online vehicle is a part of who I am as a person and, additionally, what I want to impart to my friends, family, and visitors to this website.

Here are some of my secrets to success in life. You may think that what I tell you seems simple but taken as part of a whole gives it more meaning.

Learn to think for yourself. You will find that many people will try to influence you. Your peers will tell you that what they do (albeit immoral, illegal, or just plain dumb) is what you should do also. Follow your instincts and stand your ground even in the face of their disapproval. YOU are your own person.

1. Never stop learning!

Remember that the whole world of knowledge awaits your attention. It could be that the Library of Science or the Library of Congress is holding its collective breath anticipating your appearance and giving you its amazing knowledge. You will have to work for it and THAT is not easy. Education is for a lifetime and can never be taken from you.

2. Never give up.

There are times when school, work, or relationships become difficult and even unbearable, but it is very important that you fight through the temptation to say “I can’t do it”. You have to dig deep inside and use your mental toughness and determination to continue. It’s like running a long race with each lap more difficult than the last but you know that you can finish. Just do it. You will feel stronger each time you overcome the trials and tribulations of the stresses of life.

3. Be a good, ethical person.

You will find your friends or neighbors may cheat on tests or in life. Don’t do it; your word is your bond. When you shake a hand to seal a “contract,” that is as good as a piece of paper BUT always be wary. Forget that others may be irresponsible: YOU do the right thing and you will reap the reward of trust in your family and community.

4. Learn to be a speaker and communicator.

The way we communicate is with words, writing, and body language. The ability to make people listen to you and like you is to join with them on their level and LISTEN to them. By asking some simple questions it is easy to get many important answers. Most people like to talk about themselves. Your job is to initiate probing questions and then keep quiet. Write with clarity and objectivity. Use logic and thoughts that convey how you think or feel. Know your opponent. It is like a chess game. Look ahead to see how they might react and control the conversation by anticipation of thoughts and actions. Your facial movements can alert others as to how you feel. It is a window to your thoughts.

5. Be considerate of others.

People are very sensitive to how they are treated by you. You might have a bad day at the office or even at home, but people who you treat or just interact with you do NOT know what is in your heart or head so it is incumbent on you to be kind and aware of your surroundings and behavior. When others behave in an inconsiderate way toward you, you have to also allow for some reason that they do it. They might have had a tough time somewhere. Do NOT jump to conclusions and try not to carry a grudge! When there is anger in your heart and mind, it gnaws at you and it is better to relieve yourself of those tensions by resolving issues before they eat you up.

6. Stay active mentally and physically.

Each part of that requires a determination that is often hard to do. Mentally you need to say to yourself that you have to persevere in each category. Complex situations are made up of many small simple things. You need to dissect each problem, break them down into small parts, and solve each part.

7. Get plenty of rest and do not let negative thoughts enter your mind.

Always think positive and set your goals so that you have short-term ones and longer-term ones.. NEVER be lazy. Learn to do everything from washing the floor to fixing a machine. Yes, even cutting grass on a hot day gives you toughness that carries on throughout life. It is mental!!! When you feel tired and want to stop, dig deep again and push through the fatigue. The physical part is determined by your mental attitude. You must develop your physical and mental strength and balance. It is not just making muscles larger: they must work together along with balance. Eat right. You will have to try many foods and learn what foods are good for you. Sweets are not good for anyone. No, I am not talking about depriving you of desserts, but a food balance is as important as physical balance.

8. Handling money.

It is one way we measure success in our society. It is not the root of all evil, BUT it is the cause of much dissension in our world. It should be used wisely and with care. Whether you are a brain surgeon or a master carpenter, it is most important to be GREAT at what you do. Whoever heard about 2nd best? Never spend more than you can afford, no matter what peer pressure comes at you. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. Never put yourself at financial risk with markets you do not understand. LEARN about all!! Remember, cash is KING.

9. Think about the most important decisions in your life:

There are many, but a few stand out for me, so I want to share them with you. Picking out your right partner. Notice I said that one first. I did not include your profession or job since many people change them, or choose one different from their college degrees. I think that you have to select a person who is compatible with how YOU and SHE or HE thinks. Both sexes are very different mentally and, obviously, physically. Read the information that shows how different we are from each other, and when you do date, look beyond the hormonal rages and see how that person is inside his or her head. See how they react to unusual situations and how they behave with parents, and people with whom they contact, e.g. servers in a restaurant.

10. Possessions.

Yes, I know that we all like “things”. You should try to keep in mind that you can spend just so much BUT if you can afford “things”, then buy what you want. If you have to borrow, NEVER stress your bank account. Live within your means. I hope that someday you will never need or want anything. It is also advisable to help parents with some of their needs when you are successful.

11. Community.

You and your family should help those less fortunate both by allotting some of your income to charity and also giving yourself to needy causes by volunteering in your community. The feeling of charity gives one a sense of joy and completeness. I hope that this will become a part of your whole being.