The Leap of 2020

Woodman, spare that tree! Touch not a single bough. In youth it sheltered me, And I'll protect it now.............George Pope Morris (1802-64)

Spare 2020; It may have started tough but in the end it would speak good tidings. From little Wuhan came the Covid19 Pandemic that has ravage over 1 million homes, destroyed businesses and transformed our working/social life to a new zoom normal of social distancing. From Trump White House comes the alternative truth protocols revolving staff turnover and the evangelical/republican delusional bias that establishes John Updike 1932 observation; "America is a vast conspiracy to make you happy" perhaps unhappy. From Lekki Toll Gate comes a generation of youth protesting for a just cause, hugging the national flag, singing the national anthem then at twilight murdered by the national army.

Facts on Recession

Financial Theories:

Financial Crisis Theory: Some recessions are associated with financial crises, such as the global financial crisis of 2007-2008. These crises can occur due to factors like excessive risk-taking, speculative bubbles, or the collapse of a major financial institution. Financial recessions often lead to a severe credit crunch, impacting the broader economy.

Psychological Theories:

Consumer and Business Confidence: Sentiment and confidence in the economy can play a significant role in triggering or exacerbating recessions. A sudden loss of confidence by consumers or businesses can lead to reduced spending and investment, contributing to a recession.

External Shocks:

Oil Shocks: Recessions can be triggered by external shocks, such as a sudden increase in oil prices. Oil shocks can lead to higher production costs, lower consumer spending power, and reduced economic activity.

It's important to note that recessions are complex events often influenced by a combination of factors. The specific causes and dynamics of a recession can vary from one episode to another. Economists and policymakers continually study and analyze these theories to better understand the factors that contribute to recessions and develop strategies to mitigate their impact. Additionally, the global economy is interconnected, from Trump to Wuhan, 

Recessions in one country can have ripple effects across borders, making the study of recessions a global concern.

In 2020: One could say, the land has been so devasted, another could weep; so much death. Perhaps, at the end we could find solace in a vaccine, a reformed white house and a regenerated youth.

See You at the Top

Seasons Greetings

Enjoy your Holidays

Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare;
Lenghten your cords, and strengthen your stakes. For you shall expand to the right and to the left,
and your descendants will inherit the nations, and make the desolate cities inhabited.
Isaiah 54:2-3

Develop Intrinsic motivation by engaging in an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than for some separable consequence. In simpler terms, it's doing something because you find it personally rewarding or enjoyable, rather than for external rewards or pressures. When you're intrinsically motivated, you're driven by internal factors like personal interest, enjoyment, or a sense of accomplishment.

For example, someone who enjoys painting might feel intrinsically motivated to spend hours creating art simply because they love the process and find it fulfilling, regardless of whether they receive external recognition or rewards for their work.

Tips for Business Success:

Plan Ahead: Start preparing for the holiday season well in advance. Create a detailed 

plan that covers inventory, marketing, staffing, and promotions.

Leverage Online Presence: Optimize your online store and use social media and email 

marketing to reach potential customers.

Customer Engagement: Offer excellent customer service, and consider loyalty programs 

or personalized offers to retain customers beyond the holiday season.

Adapt to Trends: Stay updated on consumer trends and preferences, as these can change 

from year to year.

See You at the Top

Season Greetings

Seasons Compliment may all your ideas lead you to a profit.

Embrace the digital universe.

The term "digital universe" typically refers to the vast amount of digital data that exists in various forms, including text, images, videos, audio recordings, sensor data, and more. This term encompasses all the data created, stored, and shared in digital formats across the internet, computer systems, mobile devices, and other digital platforms.

The digital universe is continuously expanding at an exponential rate due to factors such as the proliferation of internet-connected devices, the growth of social media, the rise of e-commerce, the adoption of cloud computing, and the increasing use of big data analytics. It includes everything from personal emails and social media posts to corporate databases and scientific research datasets.

The digital universe is a dynamic and evolving entity that shapes how we communicate, work, conduct research and interact with the world around us. Managing, analyzing, and harnessing the power of this vast digital data landscape are essential challenges and opportunities in the modern era.

The digital universe presents challenges, including data quality issues, information overload, data governance, and ethical concerns related to data use and manipulation.

The digital universe has transformed business models, created new industries (e.g., data analytics and cybersecurity), and led to economic growth through the monetization of data-driven insights and services.

The digital universe has facilitated scientific research and innovation in various fields, including astronomy, genomics, climate modeling, and social sciences, by providing access to vast amounts of data for analysis and experimentation.

Our physical Universe finds a mirror in this digital counterpart. Think of it as the collective knowledge, experiences, and creations captured in bits and bytes.

Have a great season! and See you at the Top.

Global Water Crisis

The global water crisis refers to the widespread and growing shortage of clean and safe freshwater resources in many parts of the world. It is a complex and multifaceted issue driven by various factors, including population growth, climate change, pollution, mismanagement of water resources, and unequal distribution of water access. Here are some key aspects of the global water crisis:

Water Scarcity- Water scarcity occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available supply. According to the United Nations, more than 2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water, and over 4 billion people experience severe water scarcity at least one month a year.

Unequal Access- The global water crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalized populations, often leading to social and economic inequalities. In many cases, communities in low-income countries lack access to clean water and sanitation, leading to health problems and limiting opportunities for development.

Climate Change- Climate change exacerbates the water crisis by altering precipitation patterns, causing more frequent and severe droughts, floods, and extreme weather events. These changes disrupt water availability and quality.

Water Pollution- Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic sources contaminates water supplies, making them unsafe for consumption and damaging ecosystems. Polluted water can lead to serious health issues and reduced agricultural productivity.

Over-Extraction- Over-extraction of groundwater for agriculture, industry, and urban use has led to the depletion of aquifers in many regions. Once depleted, these underground water sources can take decades or even centuries to recharge.

Ecosystem Impact- The global water crisis also has a significant impact on ecosystems. Reduced water flow in rivers and wetlands, for example, threatens aquatic life and biodiversity.

The global water crisis is a critical issue that requires concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Potters for Peace will help reach the bottom of the pyramid in these communities; access clean water, improve hygiene, educate and financially empower.

Water.org wants to access 100million people in 5 years, with your help they can.

Coachable

Time is the sum total of all the events around you. Manage your events and you will ultimately manage you time effectively.

Create a leverage, be unique and your time investment will reward you financially.

I recently joined my local toastmasters at Canary Wharf and meetings are held at Morgan Stanley. I found it fascinating especially after Clive Broadband from my club won the speaking and evaluation contest then went on to win the district evaluation contest with 27 clubs representing London.

A good time investment.

My dentist Stephanie found it difficult to see why anyone would spend time on public speaking, 

she was not convinced you needed to join a club to improve your confidence or communication. 

"This public speaking is just like motivational speaking it has no impact in your lifestyle and 

your daily challenges."

I scribbled a note to her.

"It is just like your patient telling you that my teeth are white and clean, what do I need a 

dentist for?"...............

With public speaking your pitch, voice quality, articulation, timing, vocal variety all affect your delivery. A mentor you can spot your gaps and assist in improving your delivery.

Finding a Mentor:

Identify Your Goals: Determine what you hope to achieve through mentorship, whether it's career advancement, skill development, or personal growth.

Research Potential Mentors: Look for individuals who have experience and expertise in your area of interest. They may be colleagues, supervisors, or professionals in your network.

Reach Out: Approach potential mentors and express your interest in a mentorship relationship. 

Be clear about your goals and expectations.

Mutual Fit: Ensure that there is a good fit between you and your potential mentor in terms of 

personality, values, and communication style.

Formal or Informal: Mentorship can be formal, with set goals and timelines, or informal, where the relationship develops naturally over time.

Be Open and Coachable: Be open to feedback, advice, and new perspectives. Mentorship is a two-way street, and your willingness to learn is essential.

Express Gratitude: Always show appreciation for your mentor's time and guidance. A thank-you goes a long way in maintaining a positive mentorship relationship.

I cannot over emphasize how taking daily steps towards your goal ultimately rewards you with accomplishments. 

I wish You Great Success.

Mentoring

All our individual experiences are wisdom and currency to negotiate our future.

I attended a forum today called MENTOR (Men Engaging Nations To Optimize Resources) and the sessions were profound, I have decided to act on and implement the knowledge immediately. Hence forth I will have a label called Journal; this will be notes on my thoughts and activities.

A mentor is an experienced and trusted advisor or guide who provides support, guidance, and knowledge to someone less experienced, often referred to as a mentee. Mentorship is a valuable relationship that can be highly beneficial in personal and professional development. 

Here's what you need to know about mentors and mentorship:

Role of a Mentor:

Guidance and Advice: Mentors offer their expertise and insights to help mentees navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and set and achieve goals.

Networking: Mentors can introduce mentees to valuable contacts within their industry or field, 

expanding their professional network.

Skill Development: They help mentees develop specific skills and competencies relevant to their area of interest or career.

Feedback: Mentors provide constructive feedback and critique, helping mentees improve their performance and self-awareness.

Emotional Support: They offer encouragement, motivation, and a listening ear during difficult times.

Accountability: Mentors hold mentees accountable for their goals and commitments, ensuring they stay on track.

Ten Books Everyone Should Read:

1. The Bible - the best-selling book of all time tells the story of sin and redemption, the story of mankind, of despair and hope. It is quite literally the story of our lives.

2. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill - this is arguably the best personal development and wealth building book of all time. It belongs on everyone's bookshelf.

3. How to Read a Book by Mortimer Adler - this book will teach you to do just what the title promises - read a book for all it is worth so you come out the best you can be at the end.

4. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen - this book will ground you in the belief that whatever you believe you become. Based on the bible verse that teaches us the same principle: We are what we think.

5. The Richest Man in Babylon by George Clason. Written in parables, this is a classic on thrift, 

financial planning, and personal wealth. Everyone needs to read this book.

6. The Lessons of History by William James Durant. This book gives insight as good as any book on the changes that have taken place over time in economics, politics, military customs and more. 

Very insightful.

7. The Story of Philosophy by William James Durant. In this book, Durant summarizes the lives and influence of philosophy's greatest thinkers. This is very important for us, as we know that our philosophy determines how we live and what we achieve.

8. Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

9. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki

10. The 360 Degree Leader by John C. Maxwell

I believe all our experiences both the joy and sadness, the failure and the success can be package into products for community benefit.

I wish You Great Success.