THE GIFT OF THE GAB

THE GIFT OF THE GAB

Are you a wonderful salesman? Do people want to listen to you? Do you really get your message across and does it lead to effective action? More often than not, you may feel, that whoever listens to you, just wants it to get it over with quickly. In order to get somebody's attention, you have to make an impression. Be clear on what you're trying to say. Don't leave people confused. As long as you believe passionately in the information you're trying to pass on, people won't get distracted easily.

But most people don't trust you, when you appear to intimidate them. That's why you should avoid aggressive behaviour. Your gift of the gab may then become more of a hindrance than a help. It's much better if you show genuine interest in what people feel. Some people are screaming for solutions to their problems. Just imagine, what someone else might be thinking. If you're unable, for whatever reason, to be supportive, remove yourself from the situation.

Sometimes things don't quite work out as expected. Honest communication is crucial. Otherwise you'll be unable to achieve anything, despite your gift of the gab. No news is not good news. No news often creates a nest of intrigue. Silence isn't always golden. Therefore, a far better approach would be to give the impression of wanting to help. That could make a huge difference, when peace seems far-fetched.

RICK SCHMULL 

FACING THE MUSIC

FACING THE MUSIC

Are you ready to accept the consequences of your actions? Do you think you really have to? The reality is, that, eventually, there is absolutely no way to play 'hide and seek' in the dark. You're going to have to come clean, no matter what you say or try to do. No ifs, ands or buts. But scores of people seem to get away with doing or saying the unthinkable, so why not you? That's because you're not alone. Never. Even your dog or cat can read your mind, let alone your loved ones.

Also, one of the hardest things in life is dealing with a traumatic loss. There is no way around it. It takes time. But you just have to be able to move on. There is no alternative. Fortunately, human nature tends to be flexible. Living your life is full of challenges, that can be overcome with a positive mindset. If you believe, that the best is yet to come, then you'll keep going, no matter what. Life is full of unexpected surprises, after all!

You must confront your fear in order to conquer it. Never be afraid. Believe in your destiny, which will protect you. Nature always looks after you. As long as your contribution is perceived as positive, you'll be allowed to go on. There are times, that you'll become unstoppable. That's when you believe in miracles!

RICK SCHMULL

LET NATURE TAKE ITS COURSE

LET NATURE TAKE ITS COURSE 

Are you ready to just give up and let nature take its course? Trying to control everything, may not be prudent from time to time, even if that makes you uncomfortable. Nobody should believe they know better all the time. Isn't it amazing, that your unwillingness to simply trust Nature could have very unwelcome consequences? 

If you think a Law of Nature is no longer binding, it is because you think it to be so. Is your private opinion really relevant? Nature will take care of itself and is often better left alone. Fear Nature instead! This fear is intended as respect and the beginning of true wisdom. 'The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing' (Socrates).

Is 'doing nothing' always the best option? Of course not. Anyone, who's been injured, has the right to treatment and recovery. Not taking responsibility for the suffering of wild animals is equally cruel. Feelings of compassion should never be ignored. Every animal, just like every human being, deserves a second chance. This is a very important part of living your life. You will be rewarded incredibly!

RICK SCHMULL

JUST KEEP GOING

JUST KEEP GOING

Make sure you're always on the move. Otherwise you may be going backwards. Never lose sight of your goal. Your goal is simply a must-have, a must reach. Failure is not an option. Therefore, you must keep going whatever it takes. Failure is just a stepping stone, before you'll be successful. Therefore, you should look forward to failure! Then you'll get closer to your breakthrough for eventual success. Remember, persistence will win every time, no matter what happens. 

Your life is a journey without a finish line. Your life never ends. Whatever the reason for living your life, you're on a mission to fulfill your specific destiny. Before you were even born, your destiny was already known to whomever is pulling the strings. You are an important link to whatever the future holds. You may not realize how crucial your role really is. But you have to pretend that you do know, because you're a genius, believe it or not. You can always rise above yourself and make it, as long as you keep going.

You were created with a specific purpose. Your life is an eternal quest for survival amidst all the challenges, that await you. Never stop counting your blessings along the way. Be grateful for every day, because you don't know, how long you've got. Life is a gift, after all. Always dream about the unthinkable. So just keep going and scream at the top of your lungs --- 'I did it!'

RICK SCHMULL

THE ONE AND ONLY

THE ONE AND ONLY

Life is short. That's why there's nearly always only one true love or one true passion in one's life. Time flies. It's all over, before you know it. But will it be returned in kind? For awhile, maybe. It's complicated. You'll never get all the answers to all your questions. Turns out, you're just a pawn, as the world turns, like everybody else. Your life can only be controlled by yourself in a very, very limited way. 

Just like there will never be someone else to take your place, no one can ever be replaced by you. Everybody is different and remains so. A miracle indeed! That's why whatever you're saying may fall on deaf ears. Nobody is actually listening to you. Why would anyone value your ideas in the first place? What makes your judgment so special? You'll be drowned out by the judgments of many others. 

Pay attention to your own body language. Are you giving too much away? You may pretend to be or to do the one and only, but it's easy to inadvertently be or do the opposite. Go with the flow. Don't let up. Trust in the future. Right, optimism does it. That's the only way to survive in uncertain times.

RICK SCHMULL

TOO BIG FOR YOUR BOOTS?

TOO BIG FOR YOUR BOOTS?

Are you behaving as if you are more important than you really are? Who knows? Maybe you've outgrown your boots and it's time for a change. It's all a matter of opinion. The reality is, that you probably don't think highly enough of your skills. You tend to underestimate yourself. That's because you use only a fraction of your abilities. You'd be amazed at what you really could do, if only you would have a relentless focus on fulfilling your passion.

The only thing in your mind should be fulfilling a certain purpose. Nothing else should give you absolute peace.  Nothing else. That simply requires total devotion to a particular cause. But that may well call for different boots! Are you ready to go shopping?

You have to make a decision to keep going, despite the setbacks. You're basically totally on your own. It takes a lot of doing, before anyone may notice you or care about you at all. That's why you should keep plugging away. Your life is nothing else but a step-by-step system to reach your destiny, which may already have been predetermined.

RICK SCHMULL

A HOLE IN ONE

A HOLE IN ONE

You deserve to be lucky once in a while. For a ball to hit from a tee to finish in the cup in a single shot, you'll need a significant amount of luck. But some golfers have accomplished this feat. Never count yourself out! Nothing in your life is impossible or improbable. Luck is the result of chance. The more you try, the luckier you get. Just keep at it and let things take their own natural course. You'll be surprised, how big your winnings are. 'The more you learn, the more you earn' (Warren Buffett). 

'But success breeds complacency. Complacency breeds failure. Only the paranoid survive' (Andy Grove). Therefore, 'nothing is permanent, except change' (Heraclitus). However, always monitor your blood pressure. Prioritize your own health above all else. Be your own best friend. Also, your life may often be better with your own Pet. Unconditional love! You'll be surprised how lucky you could get that way.

Just imagine all the things, that have already happened in your life accidentally without being planned. It's all in your mind. Always believe, that lucky things happen to you. You'll fare better than all the moaners, who are never satisfied. Don't get dragged down by failure like them. Think and behave like a very lucky person. Then everything is in place for a self-fulfilling prophecy!

RICK SCHMULL

STAYING POSITIVE DOES IT

STAYING POSITIVE DOES IT

Are you able to look beyond any crisis? Moving on is key. Hope is good for your health. You'll get through it. That's something you have to believe in. Inconvenient reality is mostly 'bunk'.  Never become the victim of perceived reality. There is so much incorrect. Try to imagine a reality you wish for. That's the first step to walking on air!

Easy does it. You are not alone. Just watch the huge groups of starlings swirling across the sky as the weather deteriorates. Birds sticking together is a way to keep protected. This is, what survival is all about. A flock of birds that all fly together and change direction together has no time to become negative in any way. They simply wouldn't survive. 

Positive thinking does more than put a smile on your face. Even a small amount of positive thinking could have a huge influence over what happens next. Isn't improving results all that matters? Take a break and make sure, that you're on the road to your particular happiness. There is one big road with lots of signs. Don't get confused! There is nothing like hitting that open road and experiencing all the stuff along the way. Very exciting indeed.

RICK SCHMULL

YOU MAY HAVE BEEN LED UP THE GARDEN PATH

YOU MAY HAVE BEEN LED UP THE GARDEN PATH

You may have been made to believe something, which isn't true. Today it's no longer about 'less than attractive' veiled brides, who are part of an attempt to get them off the shelf in a distant past. But the women may have felt, that their prospective husbands were not exactly a real catch either. At least the garden may have been beautiful at the time! 

'Pulling a fast one' is part of human nature, but everything has a price. A short-cut may appear to save time and effort. However, the moral of the turtle and the hare is that 'slow and steady' often wins the race in the end.

Dreaming of getting rich quick with little risk or effort? No sweat! Just imagine, that you are really thirsty. You need to drink some water now. You won't rest till you reach that goal. You simply have no choice. Do you get it now?

RICK SCHMULL

MUCH BETTER THAN EVER

MUCH BETTER THAN EVER

Fortunately you'll be able to live your life each day much better than ever. Are you ready in the starting blocks? Just focus on where you want and need to be. Don't get distracted. Most of the noise around you is a waste of time and effort. It's often shocking, that you have to go through life, while the unthinkable seems to occur again and again. Life seems to throw things at you without fail. No matter! It's not for you to judge the possible reasons why. Comfort yourself, that you're not the exception. Shake off your self-pity! There's little that you actually control in your life anyway. But all your struggles are temporary. Really! Eventually, all clouds go away. 

Life teaches some important lessons over time. You'll become wiser and more relaxed as you go along. That's because you've seen it all. You've come to accept the inevitable. But there are a host of things, where you can make a difference. In fact, just one person alone can make all the difference in the world. Just play your part. Focus on the myriad of opportunities in life, not on the problems. But your good intentions must lead to action. You must intend to become much better than ever in order to clean up later.

You should have an uncompromising vision. That'll make you unstoppable. You'll be surprised how easy it is for you to walk on water. Once you're out of the starting blocks and you feel, that you're much better than ever, you may meet Lady Luck and a Fortune could be yours. Don't squander it.

RICK SCHMULL

 

WHO SAID YOU CAN'T HAVE IT ALL?

WHO SAID YOU CAN'T HAVE IT ALL?

Yes, you can! If your dreams don't scare you, they are not big enough. Your dreams shape your future. Visualization is your way forward. Just train your mind to believe in whatever you really would like to happen and you'll overcome all your doubts. Persistence and nothing else, will clear your pathway to eventual success. Who cares if it takes a while? As long as you're on your way.

Did anybody ever say, that life would be easy? It may seem that way for some, but nobody will tell you the real truth anyway. You'll find out quickly, that nobody wants to hear if you have a problem. They may secretly even take pleasure in whatever troubles you. That's human nature. Life is a catwalk. Just pretend, that you're living the best of your life. You can bask in the glory of having it all for yourself, nobody else. Otherwise, your privacy is at risk. Not worth it!

If you really wish to have it all, don't brag about it. Keep a low profile. It's for your own and your loved ones enjoyment only. Don't make others more jealous than they already are. Just imagine that your ideal life is playing out, but don't share it with your fellow human beings. Every one is different and is at a different stage of life. If you finally decide to go all in to make your dream come true, you don't need the prying eyes of others at all.

RICK SCHMULL

HAVE YOU GOT THE WIND IN YOUR SAIL?

HAVE YOU GOT THE WIND IN YOUR SAIL?

Are you on a roll? If not, you CAN adjust the sails! Sometimes the wind is knocked out of your sails for whatever reason and then you're forced to act. Getting stuck on windless waters is simply no option. But sometimes it's too windy to sail. Staying at the dock may be a pity, but extremely wise.

Living your life is 'hard'. No question. As long as things are going well, enjoy the adventure! But accept, that nothing is forever. Get ready for challenge after challenge. Keep at it. As long as your sails have been put in the right position, you can set sail and you shouldn't worry too much about the wind anyway.

As long as there is a little wind, you'll be able to go anywhere. Even if there's no wind at all, just wait for it. Be patient. Wind will always come. Just never lose sight of where you want or need to go. You'll get there eventually.

Life is all about sailing from the safe harbour. Even if all the odds seem against you, your dream will discover a way. Dreaming in life is essential. Reality often is a temporary distraction in order to steer you off course. Don't let that happen to you! The most important word in life is always 'next'. What is it, that you're allowed to experience next?

RICK SCHMULL

SAY GOODBYE TO IT ALL

SAY GOODBYE TO IT ALL

'God be with ye!' When it's time for you to part, for whatever reason, it could be the last time. Who knows? 'See you later, alligator' may not be likely. But saying 'hello' to someone or something else is, however, highly likely. Life is in perpetual motion. Nothing remains the same for long. If you are strongly determined to survive, you have to be able to move on, if need be.

When people are going their separate ways, you really have to wish them Good Luck. It can be very painful. But it's all part of living your life and you'll have to deal with that. Similarly, your life is like a merry-go-round anyway, with highs and lows. You have to find a way to enjoy the ride and not be frightened off. Your natural life cycle is something to be experienced and not to be denied. So be it.

Your life cycle consists of different stages. You have the choice of  being on auto pilot or of becoming more pro-active. Getting things done is a matter of imagining them. Your mind is quite ready to put your belief into practice. Are you on alert enough? When one door closes, another door opens. Saying Goodbye to it all could and should be the end of another beginning.

RICK SCHMULL

DO YOU HAVE A TIGER BY THE TAIL?

DO YOU HAVE A TIGER BY THE TAIL?

Do you feel your situation is getting out of control? Did you stick your nose where it doesn't belong? What should you do, if you suddenly realize, that your involvement with things you know little or nothing about, has unintended consequences? Do you think, before you talk? Do you talk, before you think? Better NEVER grab a mighty animal by the tail ever. Trying to beat the odds? Doom could be next.

You're NOT powerless, however, to whatever may happen next. You CAN regain a sense of control. Rebounding from setbacks happens all the time. Confront your situation head-on. Accept your predicament if you seem to lose control. Don't drain your energy, when you're up against brainwashed robots. There will be a definite spring in your step, if you manage to remain positive, against the odds. 

Surviving hardships is nothing new. Be confident you'll eventually find a solution. You have to believe that you'll be taken care of at all times. Stop worrying about that. Be grateful for what is going right. Smile as if your life depends on it. Pray for wisdom and strength. You'll be able to heal and move on by constantly looking for your specific purpose in life. 

RICK SCHMULL 

 

SO FAR, SO GOOD

SO FAR, SO GOOD

You're on your way. Touch wood! But whatever you are trying to achieve, this may just be the beginning. The road to having the job well done is always under construction. Any great project will never really be finished, even if it looks as if it is. So far, so good.

Are you headed in the right direction? Otherwise you may inadvertently end up in the wrong place. You could still change course and maybe you have to. You don't even know if you're halfway there. You could actually be almost there! So far, so good.

Be yourself. Being authentic is key. Don't fake it. Not even until you make it. Be the 'real you'. Pretending that everything is fine, when it's not, isn't good enough. You deserve better. Do you really want to delay dealing with the matter at hand? Take the bull by the horns! Who cares if it seems somewhat terrifying? Be brave. You've come a long way already. So far, so good.

RICK SCHMULL

  

THANK YOU FOR THE MOMENTS AND THE MEMORIES

THANK YOU FOR THE MOMENTS AND THE MEMORIES

Moments don't last. Only memories do. Memories are precious, to be cherished forever. You should be incredibly grateful for both. Both have made you who you are today. Everything in your life happens for a reason. So many lessons are being learned all the time. But it's O.K. to let go and move on. Who knows which moments you'll be allowed to experience next. You'll always get better with time. All the bad decisions and the wrong choices are behind you. So now you're on the way of becoming less imperfect!

Your life is full of miracles. This world has so much more to offer. Nature is amazing. Why not pretend to live the rest of your life like in a dream. If you manage to pull your future reality forward, then what is due to come could be much better than ever. Make the most of of what is going right for you. That could well be your gold mine, that keeps on delivering.

The best moment for you may not yet have come, but it will. Keep and maintain the faith. Try to co-exist with any pain from your past. Each and every one of us and you is damaged goods in various degrees anyway. But that makes you stronger! It's O.K. to reflect on that from time to time, but make sure, that you keep your attention focused on the wonderful moments of joy and love that you wish for yourself the most in the future.

RICK SCHMULL

NO HOLDS BARRED

NO HOLDS BARRED

Some people have a no-holds-barred approach, with no restrictions or rules, to dealing with you. They are ruthless. Don't respond in kind. Remove yourself from the situation. Move on. Avoid escalating this mess. Take a step back. Just take a breath and pause. You may never have to deal with them again anyway.

Rudeness can be contagious, just like a cold. It's crossing the line. It's a virus. It comes with a cost. No matter whatever the reason, you don't need that. Life is too short. It's their problem, not yours. Chances are they had gotten some bad news. You could address their behaviour in private rather than in front of everyone. Also, each country has a different culture. In some countries, arriving 'on time' is incredibly rude!

Try to remain optimistic, which is contagious too. Focus on what is going right. That should change any toxic environment. Show your excitement. That's like a positive shot in the arm. Be warm and kind to anyone, including someone, who may not deserve it. That's the way to disarm any aggressive, no-holds-barred person.

RICK SCHMULL

WHERE THERE IS A WILL ...

WHERE THERE IS A WILL ...

There's a way. Even if it's hard to do. Hard jobs are getting done all the time. No doubt you'll find a way too. All it takes is determination. Stay motivated. Just keep going, even if times are tough. Tough times don't last. Continue to go after your long-term goal. If you truly want to do something, don't allow anyone or anything to stop you for doing it. Persistence knows no obstacles.

Have you been motivated enough to overcome your challenges? Dismiss any negativity and focus instead on the perceived benefits. Never throw in the towel, ever. Stay the course. Your breakthrough to the life of your dreams could be just around the corner! Failure is just part of your journey. Just get back up and try again. That will strengthen your commitment to your destiny. You should continue to grow your mind and you'll be free! 

Do you really know yourself? Take the time to do so. The answers you're looking for, are already in you. Stop looking to the outside world for any answers. Otherwise your quest will be never-ending. 

RICK SCHMULL

YOUR WAY IS YOUR WAY ONLY

YOUR WAY IS YOUR WAY ONLY

Your path is unique. Whatever works for you, may not necessarily work for others. There is no single way. No matter how brilliant the path of anyone else appears to be, you may want to let it go anyway. This may not be for you. If your journey is really someone else's, it may not even be helpful being part of it. You're better off in stepping away. Your way comes from beyond you. Once you can see it and imagine it, you're onto something. Wow! You're actually playing your predestined role in the universe.

Do you feel grateful for the good things in your life, however small? This is why you're here. You'll get better and better over time. You should celebrate each tiny milestone. You're being present at a new cycle of creation. This is exactly the miracle of life. Do you dig it?

Sometimes things don't go your way. Welcome to the club! Every so often that means working tirelessly. Deal with it. Everything takes time. But try and find your way to take the leap. It may not turn out to be such a long shot, after all. You could achieve massive success against all odds. That happens all the time. So keep the faith.

RICK SCHMULL

THE SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

THE SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

The world is always a dangerous place. Neither the strongest nor the most intelligent of living things may necessarily survive. Only the most adaptable to the changing environment have a chance. If you don't manage to adapt, you're doomed. Similarly, persistence will beat the odds every time, not talent, genius or education. 

It's human nature to not only survive, but also to come out on top. That's why your fellow human beings are your greatest competitors. That may make it difficult for you to function socially. From time to time, you may have trouble relaxing. But don't feel too bad. You cannot live your life, while you have constant distrust of others. Deal with it. 

Being among the most successful survivors in the struggle for life also requires a clear visualization of your endgame. Just going through your whole day on autopilot is simply not good enough. You are the human operator. You cannot be replaced. You need to have your flight path under your control at all times.

RICK SCHMULL