Vitamin B9 (folic acid) is a B-vitamin essential for growth, proper brain function, and mental and emotional health. Like other B-vitamins, it also converts carbohydrates into sugar, which is then transformed into energy. It works closely with vitamins B6 and B12 to regulate red blood cells and control blood levels of homocysteine, which is known to deplete folic acid from the body.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid) can be found in dark green leafy vegetables, root vegetables, beans and legumes, beef liver, whole grains, oysters, avocado, milk, and orange juice. Because meats are a poor source of B9, most doctors recommend B9 supplements to prevent folic acid deficiency, especially in pregnant and menstruating women. Some of the other uses of vitamin B9 (folic acid) are as follows:

1. Pregnancy

Folic acid deficiency in pregnant women can cause neural tube defects in their babies. This is why folate is found in most prenatal vitamins. Taking folic acid supplements in the first trimester can reduce the risk of birth defects by 72% to 100%. Studies also suggest that folic acid can prevent miscarriages, Down’s syndrome, and childhood leukemia, although this has yet to be proven.

2. Homocysteine control

Vitamin B9 (folic acid) can reduce cholesterol and homocysteine, both primary risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. It also prevents damage to the blood vessels and encourages better blood flow. Folic acid strengthens the nervous system, preventing nervous disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

To effectively reduce homocysteine, doctors usually recommend at least 400 mcg of folate a day, although some studies show that 650 to 800 mcg may be more effective. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), this is best obtained from the diet rather than supplements, except for patients with a personal or family history of heart disease.

3. Bone strength

Folic acid is one of the primary nutrients needed to keep bones healthy throughout one’s life. Sufficient levels of vitamin B9 (folic acid), in conjunction with vitamins B6 and B12, can help prevent osteoporosis and other bone disorders.

4. Cancer prevention

Folic acid may also protect against cancer of the colon, breast, cervix, esophagus, and stomach. Some experts believe it keeps DNA healthy and prevents cancerous mutations. To effectively prevent colorectal cancer, patients need al least 400 mcg of folic acid every day for at least 15 years. Women who regularly drink alcohol are more likely to develop breast cancer, and may need folic acid to lower the risk.

IMPORTANT: Dietary supplements are not strictly regulated in the US. Some vitamin B9 (folic acid) supplements may contain silica, starch, sugar, or gluten, which may be harmful to your health. Choose supplements that are GMP-compliant to make sure they do not contain such chemicals.

The product we personally use called Total Balance - http://www.health-product-we-use.com is the most natural and effective supplement we have come across. We have been using this product for over 3 years with excellent health results.

We highly recommend you learn more about our best natural nutritional supplement if you are interested in improving your overall health.

Jean Helmet runs a series of health websites, We offer a free health book for subscribers to our websites newsletter. We cover everything you need to know on nutrition and how to improve your general overall health. Check out our nutrition e-book, for more information on nutrition and the products we use.

If you surf the web, you can be sure that you face the ongoing risk of spyware or adware. It is time you updated your antispyware programs to keep your PC healthy. But first let us briefly examine the most common types of spyware.

Gone are the days when viruses were expected only via our email. Now we don’t even have to click a link to be infected. All we have to do is browse the Internet, and it’s an open invitation to spyware. Spyware constitutes those programs that are deliberately lodged in your computer without your approval or knowledge. You can never live without spyware and adware protection.

Types Of Spyware

Adware is the worst form of spyware. These programs lay in wait for you to connect to the Internet and then they send you popups that give you all kinds of offers. And while you are thinking how considerate those websites are, these fake popups are actually recording your viewing habits and smuggling them off to marketing companies who sell you junk.

Another irritating form of spyware is the browser hijacker. After installing themselves on your PC, they just change your default homepage and search engine. When you start your web browser, you’ll find that you are flooded with ads, porn and other stuff you don’t want. The scary part of this is that they mine data - which means they report your surfing habits to someone who uses the information unethically.

Keyboard loggers are thieves who steal your PIN number when you bank online. They get your passwords. This means, without spyware protection, your personal information and assets can be stolen. Then there are Diallers that enter your PC through a virus infection, adult websites, warez, or even MP3s. A dialler is software that dials numbers at premium rates when you are not around and you end up with bills for thousands of dollars.

If you use file-sharing programs, while installing it, spyware also gets installed, unless you read your end user agreements carefully or have antispyware software installed to keep these Trojans away. Imagine having every keystroke recorded, and your private instant messages, emails and other conversations being logged and reported elsewhere without you knowing about it! No - not the best situation to be in! So, never be without spyware protection.

Is There Freedom From Spyware?

The only way to escape spyware or at least minimize its effects is to install antispyware software on your pc. Some programs just remove the spyware but cannot prevent new spyware from coming into your pc. Get firewall software, if you use broadband or high-speed connections. Avoid clicking on links that promise you free movies, prizes, free software etc. Update your antispyware program and scan your PC regularly.

Author is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Anti Spyware, Window Cleaner, Anti Spam Filter etc. Visit home page: http://www.pcmantra.com. Read More at
PCMantra Resource Center.

Getting Antispyware packages installed in your system is easy enough, but you must be alert to download its latest version including the most recent spyware detection signature files.

Your number one concern while installing antispyware removal tools should be to read the end user license agreement to know exactly what you are agreeing to download. That done let’s look at how to go about getting your antispyware and adware removal package to work.

Getting Started With Antispyware Software

There is nothing complicated about installing your antispyware programs. But what you need to remember is that the latest spyware detection signature files won’t download automatically until you tell them to. So ensure that it is updated and also choose the option of automatic updates if available.

If your antispyware removal tool offers real-time protection and blocking of spyware, use it. There is always the chance, though, that the spyware might get into your system before it is detected. Start with the default settings, explore, and experiment with them. Make it a habit to run full scans on a regular basis. Schedule your antispyware software to remove Trojans say, once a week or every time you startup your system.

The next step is to make sense of your scan results. Antispyware software removal tools recognize spyware and their locations in processes in your system, tracking cookies, registry entries and shortcuts on your desktop or start menu. When there are running processes, it could imply active spyware in your memory. If you see registry entries and files, it is likely that spyware may have been lodged in your hard drive. Go through the details and analyze them. Tracking cookies can be harmless, but if tied to an IP, they can turn into spies that track your browsing habits, invading your privacy.

Taking Action On The Results

Some spyware or adware may be an integral part of some programs, games or utilities, which may not function if you remove the spyware and adware. If it is okay with you to keep this spyware and adware, and you feel that they are not threatening, retain them. Once the relevant spyware is removed run the scan again. In spite of all the precaution, you might still find traces of the spyware. Or you might find that it has reinstalled itself back into you computer. So reboot your machine and scan again. If you still find antispyware products, run the scan again with an alternate antispyware removal tool.

Regarding the alerts that come up during the real time protection, look for alerts that announce the presence of spyware, understand the implications and get rid of it.

Author is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Anti Spyware, Window Cleaner, Anti Spam Filter etc. Visit home page: http://www.pcmantra.com. Read More at
PCMantra Resource Center.

Tyrosine is an amino acid that aids in the production of brain chemicals, particularly those that affect moods. These include dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. It also binds free radicals, which are known to cause cell and tissue damage. Lack of tyrosine causes depression, underactive thyroid, low blood pressure, and low body temperature.

Common sources of tyrosine include nuts, chicken, turkey, fish, milk, and milk products. Tyrosine supplements are also available, either in capsule or tablet form. Supplements are best taken in three 500 to 1000 mg doses daily, 30 minutes before meals. They should also be taken with multivitamins to help convert them into brain chemicals. The following are some of the common uses of tyrosine.

Phenylketonuria

This occurs when the body cannot metabolize phenylalanine, from which tyrosine is formed. It is treated by restricting phenylalanine, which naturally limits tyrosine levels and require direct tyrosine intake. This may be in the form of supplements or tyrosine-rich diets.

Stress

Studies show that tyrosine helps the body cope with and minimize the symptoms of physical and psychological stress. It serves as the building block for epinephrine and norepinephine, which are the main stress-related hormones. It helps relieve emotional reactions to events like surgery, sleep deprivation, and emotional upsets.

Drug detoxification

Tyrosine can also be used to aid conventional treatments for drug abuse, particularly cocaine, caffeine, and nicotine. It is often used with tryptophan and imipramine, and antidepressant drug.

Depression

Studies have shown that depressed patients have low levels of tyrosine, and that increasing tyrosine levels can ease depression symptoms. It is more effective when taken with 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). However, more recent studies have failed to support this claim.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is characterized by irregular white patches on the skin, caused by a lack of melanin. Tyrosine encourages melanin production, making it an effective treatment for the condition. Phenylalanine, which is converted to tyrosine in the body, can effectively relieve vitiligo when combined with ultraviolet therapy.

Side effects: Common side effects of tyrosine include migraines and gastrointestinal problems. It can also interact negatively with other drugs, such as morphIne, levodopa, appetite suppressants, and antidepressants.

IMPORTANT: Because dietary supplements are not strictly regulated in the US, some tyrosine supplements may contain extenders that can be harmful to your body. Such additives include silica, starch, sugar, and gluten. Make sure your tyrosine supplements are GMP-compliant. This indicates that the product has passed strict quality standards and does not contain harmful chemicals. Also, avoid supplements that have artificial colors or flavers added.

The product we personally use called Total Balance - http://www.health-product-we-use.com is the most natural and effective supplement we have come across. We have been using this product for over 3 years with excellent health results.

We highly recommend you learn more about our best natural nutritional supplement if you are interested in improving your overall health.

Jean Helmet runs a series of health websites, We offer a free health book for subscribers to our websites newsletter. We cover everything you need to know on nutrition and how to improve your general overall health. Check out our nutrition e-book, for more information on nutrition and the products we use.

The competition in the virtual world for a freelance writing position is fierce. Anyone placing an advertisement or posting a project on an auction site for freelance writing needs may be overwhelmed by response. From there, the individual has to choose one writer out of many. Selecting the wrong person means a waste of time and money, as well as having to go through the hiring process a second or perhaps even a third time. Here are some tips on what to look for when hiring a freelance writer.

Is the person professional? Does their bid or their communication appear businesslike and expert? An individual with a bubblegum-chewing, bouncy, young tone isn’t someone you should to take care of your copywriting needs.

Has the person read your requirements and guidelines? Have they responded to each of your criteria? Individuals who slap up short, ‘Let’s do it,’ responses without taking the time to point out they answer your criteria aren’t serious ones and they won’t be serious about your business either.

Can the person write? Amazingly, many individuals who respond to freelance writing ads cannot write well. If you see terrible text full of spelling mistakes and grammar errors, don’t even take a second glance. Move on to someone who has the skills you need.

Does the person seem interested in your project? Do they ask questions about the work involved or your business? Are they clear on what needs to be done?

Does the individual have experience? While everyone starts somewhere and new writers in the industry do need a break, be very careful that the person you choose knows what they’re doing. Experience shows that the individual has written for others before and has an idea of what’s involved in the task.

Has the person provided samples of their work pertinent to your project? Are the samples well done and nicely presented? Can you notice anything that sticks out as being sub-standard writing? Were you interested in reading the whole sample or did you move on after the first paragraph?

Can the writer provide references? Samples of their work are nice; references are even better. You can and should contact references to know more about how professional the writer is and whether the client would choose the individual for their needs again.

Is the writer familiar with your particular needs? Are they experienced with writing for websites and the internet? Do they know keyword and web content writing?

Does the person appear to have good ethics and morals about their profession? Interestingly enough, some individuals are quite boastful of the less than desirable methods they do their job, such as rewriting text from other authors or copying and pasting chunks of someone else’s work. Avoid encouraging plagiarism and copyright infringement by passing these individuals over.

Does the writer appear overeager or willing to take anything on at any compensation? A professional freelance writer has respect for his or her talents and skills, and generally knows where to draw the line. Individuals falling all over themselves for any kind of work at all at any rate of pay aren’t the best choice for your needs.

Is the individual willing to take on a small trial task? Samples give an idea of the individual’s talents, but keep in mind that samples are also documents edited thousands of times to present the writer in the best light possible. Some individuals, when put to the real test, don’t pass.

Does the write respect you? Does the person respect your ideas, suggestions, and wishes? Is he or she willing to work with you to do the best job possible? If you feel talked down to, condescended to, or that your voice isn’t being heard, select another writer. You should feel happy and enjoy the business relationship.

Once you do make your choice on which freelance writer to try out, remember that you aren’t married for life. If the writer you chose ends up not being one you’re happy with or his or her services are lacking in any area, end the relationship. While you may have to go through the hiring process again, finding a freelance writer that you’re satisfied and happy with is important.

© Copyright James Chartrand 2007 All Rights Reserved

Do you need a professional freelance writer for your copy? Want to know more about being a freelance writer? Interested in tips on how to be a professional writer? Visit Jamie’s Blog at http://jcme.ca

Ginkgo biloba is an herb commonly grown in China and known for its various medicinal properties. Different ginkgo biloba analysis have produced various results, but overall, it has three primary effects on the body: it improves blood flow, eliminates free radicals, and prevents blood clotting. Some studies suggest that ginkgo can boost energy and treat Alzheimer’s disease, although more ginkgo biloba analysis is needed to support these claims.

Ginkgo can be added to food or drink (commonly tea), or taken as supplements in capsule form. However, herbal supplements are not strictly regulated, so not all ginkgo products may be reliable. To stay safe, you can look up a ginkgo biloba analysis online, or consult your doctor before buying. This ginkgo biloba analysis lists some of the common uses of ginkgo biloba, as well as some buying tips.

Medicinal uses

Antioxidant. Ginkgo leaves contain terpenoid and flavonoids, which act as antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants destroy free radicals, which cause cell damage and make us prone to disease.

Memory enhancement. Because ginkgo improves circulation, it also increases blood flow to the brain. This slows down the deterioration of brain cells and helps improve memory, brain function, and mental performance. It may also prevent neurological disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Retinal protection and treatment. The flavonoids in ginkgo also prevent diseases in the retina, or the back part of the eye. Studies show that ginkgo may help preserve vision in patients with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD).

Side effects

Common side effects of ginkgo include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, restlessness, diarrhea, gastrointestinal problems, and an increased risk of bleeding. People who are taking aspirin, anti-coagulants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) should consult their doctor before taking ginkgo or ginkgo supplements. Ginkgo biloba analysis also suggests negative effects on warfarin, but this has not been proven. Ginkgo may also have side effects on pregnant women and infants. To prevent side effects, stay within the prescribed dose and administration times. Safe doses usually range from 40 to 2000 mg.

IMPORTANT: Like other herbal supplements, ginkgo biloba is not strictly regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Some manufacturers include extenders in their products which may be harmful to your health, such as silica, sugar, starch, and gluten. To make sure your ginkgo supplement does not contain such additives, choose one that is GMP-compliant. Also, make sure it does not contain any artificial flavors or colors.

The product we personally use called Total Balance - http://www.health-product-we-use.com is the most natural and effective supplement we have come across. We have been using this product for over 3 years with excellent health results.

We highly recommend you learn more about our best natural nutritional supplement if you are interested in improving your overall health.

Jean Helmet runs a series of health websites, We offer a free health book for subscribers to our websites newsletter. We cover everything you need to know on nutrition and how to improve your general overall health. Check out our nutrition e-book, for more information on nutrition and the products we use.

It is a tough job to decide whether the antispyware program you want to install is genuine or fake. Telling the difference can be a tough job. You have to be aware of how to keep your system clear of spyware and adware. How do you do it?

One of the best ways to figure out whether antispyware program is reliable or fake is when a vendor advertises saying that it can clean your system removing pop ups and spyware - with a pop up ad! Then you should obviously suspect such a vendor. We get pop up and banner ads that tell you that your system is infected with spyware. Although there are good legitimate antispyware vendors offering you a free scan, the trustworthy ones will never claim that your system is already infected!

Frequent scanning with antispyware software is a must for all computers since almost ninety percent of all computers have spyware in some form or other. It is a good idea to use a free scan offered by the antispyware program first. If you still can’t make up your mind about which one to get, check reliable sites for reviews of the antispyware software. There are also a lot of support sites where you can read about other user’s views and what they have to say about the antispyware they are using. One quick Google search will give you hundreds of results.

To Trust Or Not To Trust

There are websites that recommend rogue antispyware and these are the ones that use the weaknesses in Windows and Internet explorer to stick you with a drive-by install. They spread malicious code and flood you with sequential popups that never seem to close. One way you can avoid this, apart from having a good antispyware program is to keep your pc updated at all times. Antispyware programs can protect you from some of these spyware sites. You can also block popups. Suppose you haven’t got Windows SP2 or use some other operating system, get a third party popup blocker.

Putting An End To Popups

When you get those endless annoying popups that try to push products at you they could be antispyware, gambling offers or porn. No matter how fast you close your browser, they just don’t seem to close. The first thing you should do is save all the other programs you were working on. Terminate your Internet connection. Then try to shut down or restart your computer. When your system restarts, those browsers ought to have disappeared. Don’t ever randomly consent to software downloads and installs. If you don’t trust a site just close the browser!

Author is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Anti Spyware, Window Cleaner, Anti Spam Filter etc. Visit home page: http://www.pcmantra.com. Read More at
PCMantra Resource Center.

Saya, a renowned Taiwanese, met a car accident that injured her cervical vertebrae. Her family members then tried to heal her injury by massage therapy but it made her condition worse. During Saya’s old age, her neck suddenly could not move and she felt very painful. Saya quickly went to see doctor as she feared getting stroke.

The old accident injury that hurt her vertebrae and nervous system coupled with worsening condition due to massage alarmed her to see the doctor indeed. Saya’s experience reminds us that even massage is enjoyable for ordinary person, it may cause injury to your physique.

Don’t challenge your neck and nerves Brain stroke and nerve injury expert says that few years of clinical experiments show that your neck is the most dangerous part of your body. Common carotid arteries and vertebral arteries supply blood to the brain through neck. If one of the nerves gets blocked, stroke and even paralysis and death may occur.

Neck is not like other parts of your body such as the back, thigh and buttock. It will get injured easily especially for women who have more intricate neck muscle. For those suffering from cervical vertebrae injury, they must avoid neck massage.

A nervous system professor advised readers to protect their necks and avoid twisting it too much. He advised not to let others touch your neck too. He has observed too many stroke patients and realized that the neck area is indeed very weak.

Enjoy massage but don’t take the risk When nerves are weakened, over lying down will lead to stroke. So massage can make the condition worse.

An American anesthesia expert suffered from stroke after he twisted his neck during a swimming session. Stroke also often occurs to truck drivers who turned their head back to look at traffic condition behind their truck.

Once, one young lady suffered from severe brain stroke after lying down too long on a hair saloon chair.

Nobody knows about high risks Presently medical experts still cannot explain the reason of weak nerves. Even the young ones can suffer from it. The year 2000 Canadian Medical Journal advised masseur not to massage patient’s neck. The reason? Researches reveal that almost one third of all stroke patients in Canada is due to massage therapy around neck area.

Massage therapy is indeed a way to release tension. However, consult doctor first before neck massage for the following condition:

• woman during pregnancy
• suffering from illnesses like cancer
• having external injury
• and osteoporosis

Remember to tell the masseur your health condition before the massage begins. In other word, when you want to enjoy massage, you must avoid the risk too.

Imagine you can have risk-free massage therapy inside your body with more health benefits. Find out how at http://www.alternative-magnetic-therapy.com

B6 (pyridoxine) is a nutrient that forms part of the B-complex group of vitamins. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for maintaining a healthy mind and body.

1. Uses of B6 (pyridoxine)

B6 (pyridoxine) is needed in assisting the growth of new cells and in helping the immune system. It is also required in balancing hormonal changes in a woman’s body. B6 (pyridoxine) is used in the utilization and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also helps in controlling moods and behavior. B6 (pyridoxine) may also help children with learning difficulties and assist in the prevention of eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.

Pyrsidoxine has many other important functions. It also assists in the production of red blood cells and the balancing of potassium and sodium. It is thought to be connected with cancer immunity and the nucleic acids DNA and RNA. It also fights the formation of homocysteine-a toxic chemical that threatens the heart muscle. Vitamin B6 is also needed by the body to produce its own vitamin B3.

2. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency

Deficiency of vitamin B6 may lead to nervousness, irritability, insomnia, weakness, dermatitis, acne, allergies, asthma, and the appearance of kidney stones. Symptoms of deficiency may include an inflamed tongue, ridged nails, and bone changes (that can lead to arthritis and osteoporosis). Women who are in short supply of vitamin B6 may experience emotional PMS symptoms, premenstrual fluid retention, premenstrual acne, severe period pains, depression, mood swings, loss of sex drive, and nausea during early pregnancy.

Vitamin B6 is usually depleted during hormone replacement therapy and when taking birth control pills, thus may require supplementation.

3. Food sources

Good food sources of pyridoxine include eggs, carrots, chicken, brewer’s yeast, liver, fish, wheat germ, peas, kidneys, and walnuts. Pyridoxine should be taken with the rest of the B-complex vitamins and. It also works well with vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, sodium, linoleic acids, and fatty acids.

4. Recommended dosage

Based on the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), the recommended dosage of vitamin B6 is 2 mg per day for both males and females. Extreme dosage of vitamin B5, particularly exceeding 2,000 mg per day, can cause neurological damage. Taking vitamin B5 supplementation at night, can result to having vivid dreams.

TIP: When buying vitamin supplements including vitamin B6, go with a manufacturer that strictly adheres to GMP standards. This will assure you that the product contains the right ingredients and in the right amount as indicated. This also ensures that the product contains no contaminants. Take note that vitamins supplements are not regulated by the FDA; thus, GMP compliance is highly recommended.

The product we personally use called Total Balance - http://www.health-product-we-use.com is the most natural and effective supplement we have come across. We have been using this product for over 3 years with excellent health results.

We highly recommend you learn more about our best natural nutritional supplement if you are interested in improving your overall health.

Jean Helmet runs a series of health websites, We offer a free health book for subscribers to our websites newsletter. We cover everything you need to know on nutrition and how to improve your general overall health. Check out our nutrition e-book, for more information on nutrition and the products we use.

Genevieve Behrend in her book Your Invisible Power wrote,
“When your understanding grasps the power to visualize your heart’s desires and holds it with your will, it attracts to you all things requisite to the fulfillment of that picture by the harmonious vibration of the Law of Attraction.”

Wishes become horses so beggars can fly! The thoughts we have become manifest whether they are positive or negative. The Universe always delivers.

The Law of Attraction is deceptively simple. On the surface of it, one would imagine if they only wish for something long enough and strong enough, they will actually get it. This is a lot like the fairy tales we read as kids, where everyone ‘lived happily ever after’. In reality however understanding the Law of Attraction and leveraging on the same calls for a lot of self-awareness and self-discipline. One also needs to be realistic to identify the pitfalls that can shatter ones’ dreams.

1. Identify a Goal

In real life, identifying a goal is not as easy as it sounds. The goals we set also depend on our age and stage in life. Also, just as our lives are constantly evolving and changing, so are our goals.

- A child would wish for a big car, a nice house - all the tangibles they can see with the ‘happy’ people around them.

- A teenager would wish for lots of money to do all the things they want and of course a great looking person of the opposite sex to do those things with.

- A young adult would wish for a good job that does not involve too much hard work, but one that would make them the cynosure of those around them.

- A middle aged person would wish for peace of mind and some leisure to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

- An elderly person would wish for good health and peace among their descendants.

2. List the stepping stones you will need to cross to reach your goal.

This is easier said than done. The stepping stones could easily change with changing circumstances around us, circumstances over which we have no control.
The stepping stones we have identified have also got to be periodically reviewed and revised. At the goal setting stage we may identify one set of stepping stones, but as we progress towards our goal, we find that in our naivete we had identified a very simplistic set of stepping stones.

3. Focus on your goal

We are not living in a static environment, where we can single-mindedly focus on our goals in life. Our focus often gets side tracked by events happening around us - either to us directly or to others who are close to us. We may set our sights on a brilliant career. However if family misfortune or ill-health should happen, our focus on building our career would need to shift.
It is difficult to stay focused and not to get disheartened when we are not crossing the stepping stones that we had originally envisaged, when everything is not going according to plan.

4. Be aware of your energies

Our energies, positive or negative are controlled by our ‘well-being’ It is very difficult if not impossible to remain positive and radiate positive energies when things are falling around you or when you are surrounded by a pool of negative energies.

Just as you are radiating energies that are attracting others of similar energy, others around you are also radiating energies, energies that could be stronger than yours.

5. Man is not an island

Our lives are intertwined with the lives of others, we do not live in solitary confinement. Therefore just as our actions affect those around us, so do others’ reactions affect us. The achievement of our goals is also dependent on the actions of those around us. The achievement of our goal could also get derailed by the actions of those around us.

Life could be compared to a jigsaw puzzle

- You have all the pieces, but do not have the image. You would go through considerable as you work on the puzzle and keep changing your mind about what you think the image is meant to be.

- You have a clear image, but not all the pieces. It is difficult to put the puzzle together. Knowing you do not have all the pieces in itself is a deterrent to completing the puzzle with the pieces you have.

- You are given the image but it is incomplete or unclear. You would form a mental picture on what the image should be, based on the part of the image that you can decipher. But as you work on the puzzle and the pieces begin to fit, you may find that once you have all the pieces in place, the image is quite different from what you thought it was.

- You are given an image, but it keeps changing. Depending on your frame of mind and things around you they colors could appear more vibrant or more faded. The vibrant colors would encourage us to crack the puzzle faster. The faded colors would be a deterrent.

The best scenario would be to be given a clear image with all the pieces and the icing on the cake would be directions on how to work the puzzle, in what order to fit in the pieces! In a lot of the jigsaw puzzles we work we have a clear image and all the pieces, but then life is not a game and so most often we do not have a clear picture, but rather an ever-changing picture. And while we are working out the puzzle of life we experiences a lot of changes of light that make the colors and shades appear different. Our surroundings also tend to change with more noise and distraction and people and events competing for our attention.

As Winston Churchill: said , “During their lifetimes, every man and woman will stumble across a great opportunity. Sadly, most of them will simply pick themselves up, dust themselves down and carry on as if nothing ever happened”

Such is life. Depending on the energies we radiate we will attract people and circumstances.

Depending on the surroundings in which we find ourselves, various opportunities will present themselves. It is then left to us to pick and choose our opportunities and to make the most of them. The journey of life will not take place with us standing on the starting block and focusing on the goal. We have to take that first step and the second step and then pick up momentum or else we will remain on the starting block and life will pass us by. We cannot stand on the shore and look for all the hidden rocks in the sea of life, and try and chart our course to our goal without taking the first step. The hidden rocks will keep shifting with the shifting sands.

We’ve just got to dive into life, come up every so often to sight our goal. Every so often we’ve also got to dive under the waves to sight the rocks and steer a course round them.

As Joan Curcio says, “Jump into the middle of things, get your hands dirty, fall flat on your face, and then reach for the stars.”

Colin Joss is the author of Inspired Attraction - a bestselling ebook packed with practical advice
and inspirational stories from thirteen masters of attraction - including two stars of The Secret.
Visit http://www.inspiredattraction.com