Frustrating Success
Ever since our daughter was born 5 years ago, I have slowly put on weight. Not just a few pounds but almost 25. It just crept up on me with a little bite here, a little nibble there, and a few chips here and there to calm my nerves. I whined a lot about it but did little to change until Emmanuelle came back from seeing her family in France.
She told me about a new health/eating plan called the Protal Diet. Her sister lost 50 pounds in 6 months on the plan and we decided to do it together. I am officially at day 25 and have dropped from 195.4 to 186.8 pounds. Who is ready to jump on already? Before you do though, read the rest of the “Thought of the Week” so you know what you are getting into! Here are my results broken down into 5-day segments.
Days Start 195.4
1 to 5 195.4 193.4 191.4 191.6 191.8
6 to 10 191 190.4 190.4 190.2 189
11 to 15 190.4 190 188 190.2 188.4
16 to 20 188.4 189.4 188.6 189.8 187.8
21 to 25 186.6 185.8 186.6 186.6 186.8
Upon closer look there is a lot to learn about how “frustrating success” can be sometimes. Here are a few of my interpretations from the results.
• Overall, I am down 8.6 pounds in 25 days. That is fantastic!
• I experienced 44% of my weight loss in the first 5 days
• In the first 10 days I experienced 74% of my success
• 44% of the days my weight stayed the same or went UP instead of down
This is such a great example of what people experience in the pursuit of goals. I experienced the greatest amount of success, results and emotional highs the first 5 days of the program. I was flying high as I watched the scale tell me of my continued success everyday. The second five day period I still experienced success even though it slowed down in its momentum and smaller numbers. It was during this period that I started to really physically notice a difference around the waist. I also lost the most enthusiasm because the amount of weight I was losing everyday started to wane.
The third cycle I hit a plateau and could not break through to under 190 pounds. The fourth and fifth have been frustrating because I am feeling the diminishing returns and the scale was not singing praise to me anymore. In the last 15 days of the plan I only lost 2.2 pounds!!!! Success was frustrating for sure compared to how I started out.
Imagine the emotional frustration (while experiencing success overall) that came when I stepped on the scale and almost half of the time my weight stayed the same or went up. Everyday was a mental and emotional struggle, is it up or down, am I seeing the results? Am I doing things correctly? What do I need to change or adjust? Will I continue to drop at this slow rate? Why did the weight just jump up again?
Sometimes, even in the middle of the cycle of success, things can be frustrating due to one emotion called expectation. Many people never reach their long term goals because they expect to have the large amount of success they experience at the beginning of the journey continue throughout the whole process of change. I wanted results like in cycle 1, where I lost 3.6 pounds, each and every week!
However, the real commitment to achieving a goal is never in the beginning as much as in the middle when it gets tough, when we are not experiencing the “highs” of immediate and big results but making small baby steps that seem negligible. There is a lot of excitement and enthusiasm at a marathon start line but at mile 17 you just have to dig down, focus on the next step, and look towards the finish line.
One more question, “Looking at the results, in which cycle did the weight loss have the most meaning?” Well, in the short term the immediate results provide great motivation but it has a huge downside because of the expectation that was created. In my mind, they canceled each other out.
The pounds that have the greatest impact are the 26% that I experienced after the first 2 cycles. During the later cycles, the weight I lost was pure fat. The majority of the initial weight loss was predominately water weight.
As you pursue your goals expect the ups and downs. Remember the initial change that you see may sometimes not become the norm and standard for the whole process. Be wary of the expectations that may be created by that initial burst of high enthusiasm and change. The real commitment to any goal is defined by what happens after that initial high. And, that is sometimes where the most important change is experienced.
Just a closing note, since I wrote this, I am now at Day #34. I have been up 3 out of the last 8 days and the scale measured 184.6 this morning. It is reassuring how the “frustrating” cycle of success continues.
Sometimes it is good to remember that where you are emotionally, in the moment, does not necessarily reflect the overall direction you are headed towards. Keeping your commitment and driving forward into uncertainty and doubt is what creates future opportunities for success. Without moving forward through adversity, opportunity is lost.
I wish you a long term “frustrating success” cycle in all of your endeavors and would love to hear about how you are making your dreams become real. After all, if success wasn’t frustrating once in a while it probably would not create such a deep meaningful experience when the finish line is crossed.
Last day to Register for the JULY SPECIAL:
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
Please pass on this “Thought of the Week” to anyone who needs an encouraging “Thought.”. They can sign up for the “Thought of the Week” by sending me an email at james@evolutionforsuccess.com and place “subscribe” in the subject line. I never share my email list with anyone. Your privacy is of utmost importance to me.
If you wish to unsubscribe, please reply with “Unsubscribe” in the subject line.
7/31/09
7/24/09
How did you do?
I have run many races in my life and I always wonder why I like to run so much. It seems that every time someone finds out that I just completed another race I get that inevitable question, “How did you do?”
Recently, I just finished mapping out an aggressive training plan for two more sprint triathlons (one this weekend and one in October), the Goofy Challenge in January 2010 (a half marathon on Saturday and full marathon on Sunday, see you there Steve :>)) and a very optimistic goal for a 40 and 50 mile run in March and April 2010. And, in the back of my mind there is an Olympic length triathlon next summer that I would love to participate in.
Exercise is important to me because it makes me feel more energetic, alive and positive in my mental and emotional states. We have a joke in the house that if Dad doesn’t exercise he turns into his alter ego of “grouchy bear.” That is also why we have our kids stay active.
This past Tuesday was the last swim meet of the summer and the kids have really enjoyed their swimming experience. At the end of every swim meet my kids get the same question as me, “How did you do?” And they usually answer, “I did OK, I came in first in my heat, or not too good.” There are many people in our neighborhood who if you ask them, “How did your kids do?” They all measure it the same, in terms of what place their kids took.
I know there is a school of thought that says, “Winning is everything” but I offer a question to you. At a marathon, if there are 30,000 runners is there only one winner? Yes and No. Isn’t the real purpose of being in the race to define in some way who you really are? To find what you are made of? To determine if you allow yourself to feel accomplishment and success to feel good about yourself?
When people ask me, “How did your kids do?” I always work to say, “He was great, he knew he was coming in last but gave 100% until the very end.” Or, “she was totally crushed that she did not finish first like her friend, but we got her focused to use that emotion so she is looking forward to coming to practice tomorrow and working harder.”
My kids ask me the question after I come back from every race and I tell them, “by participating in the race I am a winner, I finished strong, and I am looking forward to running another day.”
However, that is not really the whole truth either. For me, every race is won as soon as I experience that moment where I find myself face to face with myself either in physical pain, mental and emotional pain, or the emotional high of being so grateful for my life it hurts.
For me personally, the race is never defined by the moment that I cross the finish line. The race if defined in the hundreds of miles of training and during brief intense emotional moments that happen during the race itself. The race is defined in those moments when a person comes face to face with their own limitations and it is in those moments of decision that your destiny is shaped. When I decide to either embrace and push through those painful moments to experience more of myself or give up and quit.
If you see me at the pool be sure and ask, “How did your kids do?” I can already tell you that they won because throughout the season they were in the race and gave 100%. For the last 8 weeks, 5 days a week they have practiced, took swim lessons, experience ribbons for first place and came in last. They did their best.
Ask me over the next year, “How did you do?” at the end of each of my big audacious race goals and I will tell you something to the effect of, “Great, I came face to face with my fears during that swim at 200 meters, I pushed through the burning of my legs on that 14th mile of the bike ride, I never dreamed I would actually complete that training plan for the Goofy Challenge, or that 39th mile was mentally and emotionally the longest of my life, but I pushed through and never quit. I found myself in those miles and made myself more.” I hope those will be the answers to your question.
I hope that you find a way to engage in a meaningful endeavor that will allow you to come face to face with your limitations, push through, and become more. I will be asking you, “How did you do?” And, hope you have an answer deeper than “first or second place.” Stay in the race of life and I look forward to hearing how you did.
Recently, I just finished mapping out an aggressive training plan for two more sprint triathlons (one this weekend and one in October), the Goofy Challenge in January 2010 (a half marathon on Saturday and full marathon on Sunday, see you there Steve :>)) and a very optimistic goal for a 40 and 50 mile run in March and April 2010. And, in the back of my mind there is an Olympic length triathlon next summer that I would love to participate in.
Exercise is important to me because it makes me feel more energetic, alive and positive in my mental and emotional states. We have a joke in the house that if Dad doesn’t exercise he turns into his alter ego of “grouchy bear.” That is also why we have our kids stay active.
This past Tuesday was the last swim meet of the summer and the kids have really enjoyed their swimming experience. At the end of every swim meet my kids get the same question as me, “How did you do?” And they usually answer, “I did OK, I came in first in my heat, or not too good.” There are many people in our neighborhood who if you ask them, “How did your kids do?” They all measure it the same, in terms of what place their kids took.
I know there is a school of thought that says, “Winning is everything” but I offer a question to you. At a marathon, if there are 30,000 runners is there only one winner? Yes and No. Isn’t the real purpose of being in the race to define in some way who you really are? To find what you are made of? To determine if you allow yourself to feel accomplishment and success to feel good about yourself?
When people ask me, “How did your kids do?” I always work to say, “He was great, he knew he was coming in last but gave 100% until the very end.” Or, “she was totally crushed that she did not finish first like her friend, but we got her focused to use that emotion so she is looking forward to coming to practice tomorrow and working harder.”
My kids ask me the question after I come back from every race and I tell them, “by participating in the race I am a winner, I finished strong, and I am looking forward to running another day.”
However, that is not really the whole truth either. For me, every race is won as soon as I experience that moment where I find myself face to face with myself either in physical pain, mental and emotional pain, or the emotional high of being so grateful for my life it hurts.
For me personally, the race is never defined by the moment that I cross the finish line. The race if defined in the hundreds of miles of training and during brief intense emotional moments that happen during the race itself. The race is defined in those moments when a person comes face to face with their own limitations and it is in those moments of decision that your destiny is shaped. When I decide to either embrace and push through those painful moments to experience more of myself or give up and quit.
If you see me at the pool be sure and ask, “How did your kids do?” I can already tell you that they won because throughout the season they were in the race and gave 100%. For the last 8 weeks, 5 days a week they have practiced, took swim lessons, experience ribbons for first place and came in last. They did their best.
Ask me over the next year, “How did you do?” at the end of each of my big audacious race goals and I will tell you something to the effect of, “Great, I came face to face with my fears during that swim at 200 meters, I pushed through the burning of my legs on that 14th mile of the bike ride, I never dreamed I would actually complete that training plan for the Goofy Challenge, or that 39th mile was mentally and emotionally the longest of my life, but I pushed through and never quit. I found myself in those miles and made myself more.” I hope those will be the answers to your question.
I hope that you find a way to engage in a meaningful endeavor that will allow you to come face to face with your limitations, push through, and become more. I will be asking you, “How did you do?” And, hope you have an answer deeper than “first or second place.” Stay in the race of life and I look forward to hearing how you did.
7/17/09
Solving a very specific problem with Meta Model III Questions
If you have A SINGLE VERY SPECIFIC PROBLEM take a few minutes and go through this process as quickly as possible out loud or writing it on paper. See what happens:
1. What's the Specific Problem? ~or~ What's wrong?
2. What caused the problem Specifically?
3. How have you failed to resolve this problem specifically?
4. How can you overcome the solution to the problem?
FLIP
5. What specifically would you like to change?
6. When will you STOP IT from being a limitation (no other answer except NOW!)
7. How many ways do you know that you have solved this specific problem?
8. I know that you are changing and seeing things differently, NOW!
1. What's the Specific Problem? ~or~ What's wrong?
2. What caused the problem Specifically?
3. How have you failed to resolve this problem specifically?
4. How can you overcome the solution to the problem?
FLIP
5. What specifically would you like to change?
6. When will you STOP IT from being a limitation (no other answer except NOW!)
7. How many ways do you know that you have solved this specific problem?
8. I know that you are changing and seeing things differently, NOW!
7/16/09
My Pet Black Widow
My Pet Black Widow
A client once told me at the end of a coaching session, “you must never have any problems in life.” Since the first day of my coaching training I was taught that emotional state management is vital during every coaching session. I took his statement as a compliment in that I showed up “in state” for our coaching sessions, however, nothing could be farther from the truth. When it comes to my own life and problems, I am my own best coaching client.
That memory was triggered this weekend as I was out watering my grass. Here in North Carolina we water our grass weekly in an effort to keep it alive during the hot and humid summer months. Every Sunday I do a deep watering and in one corner of the lawn, in a small green telephone hub lives a big black widow. She is absolutely beautiful; dark black with bright red markings on her abdomen.
We have developed an interesting relationship over the last month. At first, my immediate thought was to kill her. She could be very dangerous if the kids got a little too inquisitive. I really did not want to do that but how do you relocate a black widow? My next line of defense was to just water the heck out of her web and see if she would eventually get the hint and relocate on her own.
Guess what? After weeks of wrecking her web, she just rebuilds. That is the problem. No matter how many times I tear down her web she just continues to rebuild. After all, that is what spiders do. They know who they are and it does not matter what happens to their web, they really don’t care. She just reacts, takes action, and rebuilds.
I wish in some ways, when it came to my own problems and challenges, I could be like that black widow. There would never have to be a reason “why” something was the way it was, there would be no focus on what I may lose or have just lost, and no worry or uncertainties about what the future held; I would just react, take action and build.
In a way that could be possible. I could be more like her. In order to react to situations instinctively I would just have to be very aware of who I am, what my strengths are, wait patiently for something to happen and react. If a fly became trapped, dinner would be served, and then I would get to work building again! If someone or something outside of my control and influence came along and wrecked everything I had just built I would just get to work rebuilding. There would not be any emotions involved.
Somewhere in the process of reacting to the events around me without having to think or feel, there would be something missing though. I think that life would almost have no purpose or meaning. I think that I would miss thinking about things, exploring options, growing and being able to celebrate success. I think that as a spider I would miss being able to choose how I wanted to act and react to life around me. Maybe having problems and challenges is not so bad after all. There are other upsides to being human too. I don’t really have to worry about getting eaten by my mate.
So, I think I will just keep the black widow as a reminder that thinking a little too much about things is not healthy. Balancing thinking with action towards what I choose to build and create works just fine for me. Choice is one of the greatest gifts in life.
Spiders and Personal Results Coaches all have problems and challenges in life. Choosing how we are going to react to them and take action is the difference between the two. I am probably the only one on the block with a pet Black Widow. She reminds me every week that I always have a choice in life and so do you. Choose wisely this week how you are going to act and react as you travel down the road ahead.
JULY SPECIAL: ONLY 2 Weeks Left!!
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
BONUS: Sign up in July & receive your FREE 2-CD set “Maintaining Massive Momentum CD with audio transcript!” (A $19.99 value)
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
Step 1: Complete the Pre-Call Worksheet for a single goal
Step 2: 30-minute Coaching session to set up new strategies for success
Step 3: You send me a daily email or voicemail with the top 3-5 specific things you are committed to do that day to reach your monthly goal. I will personally respond to every email or voicemail with helpful tips, hints, and strategies to overcome your challenges you have along the way
Step 4: After the completion of week 2, a 15-minute check-in call to measure and monitor your success.
Step 5: Repeat Step 3
Step 6: 15-Minute Celebration Call to re-enforce the changes you have made and revise strategies for continued success.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. Success can be yours for only $5 per day, M-F. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
Please pass on this “Thought of the Week” to anyone who needs an encouraging “Thought.”. They can sign up for the “Thought of the Week” by sending me an email at james@evolutionforsuccess.com and place “subscribe” in the subject line. I never share my email list with anyone. Your privacy is of utmost importance to me.
If you wish to unsubscribe, please reply with “Unsubscribe” in the subject line.
A client once told me at the end of a coaching session, “you must never have any problems in life.” Since the first day of my coaching training I was taught that emotional state management is vital during every coaching session. I took his statement as a compliment in that I showed up “in state” for our coaching sessions, however, nothing could be farther from the truth. When it comes to my own life and problems, I am my own best coaching client.
That memory was triggered this weekend as I was out watering my grass. Here in North Carolina we water our grass weekly in an effort to keep it alive during the hot and humid summer months. Every Sunday I do a deep watering and in one corner of the lawn, in a small green telephone hub lives a big black widow. She is absolutely beautiful; dark black with bright red markings on her abdomen.
We have developed an interesting relationship over the last month. At first, my immediate thought was to kill her. She could be very dangerous if the kids got a little too inquisitive. I really did not want to do that but how do you relocate a black widow? My next line of defense was to just water the heck out of her web and see if she would eventually get the hint and relocate on her own.
Guess what? After weeks of wrecking her web, she just rebuilds. That is the problem. No matter how many times I tear down her web she just continues to rebuild. After all, that is what spiders do. They know who they are and it does not matter what happens to their web, they really don’t care. She just reacts, takes action, and rebuilds.
I wish in some ways, when it came to my own problems and challenges, I could be like that black widow. There would never have to be a reason “why” something was the way it was, there would be no focus on what I may lose or have just lost, and no worry or uncertainties about what the future held; I would just react, take action and build.
In a way that could be possible. I could be more like her. In order to react to situations instinctively I would just have to be very aware of who I am, what my strengths are, wait patiently for something to happen and react. If a fly became trapped, dinner would be served, and then I would get to work building again! If someone or something outside of my control and influence came along and wrecked everything I had just built I would just get to work rebuilding. There would not be any emotions involved.
Somewhere in the process of reacting to the events around me without having to think or feel, there would be something missing though. I think that life would almost have no purpose or meaning. I think that I would miss thinking about things, exploring options, growing and being able to celebrate success. I think that as a spider I would miss being able to choose how I wanted to act and react to life around me. Maybe having problems and challenges is not so bad after all. There are other upsides to being human too. I don’t really have to worry about getting eaten by my mate.
So, I think I will just keep the black widow as a reminder that thinking a little too much about things is not healthy. Balancing thinking with action towards what I choose to build and create works just fine for me. Choice is one of the greatest gifts in life.
Spiders and Personal Results Coaches all have problems and challenges in life. Choosing how we are going to react to them and take action is the difference between the two. I am probably the only one on the block with a pet Black Widow. She reminds me every week that I always have a choice in life and so do you. Choose wisely this week how you are going to act and react as you travel down the road ahead.
JULY SPECIAL: ONLY 2 Weeks Left!!
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
BONUS: Sign up in July & receive your FREE 2-CD set “Maintaining Massive Momentum CD with audio transcript!” (A $19.99 value)
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
Step 1: Complete the Pre-Call Worksheet for a single goal
Step 2: 30-minute Coaching session to set up new strategies for success
Step 3: You send me a daily email or voicemail with the top 3-5 specific things you are committed to do that day to reach your monthly goal. I will personally respond to every email or voicemail with helpful tips, hints, and strategies to overcome your challenges you have along the way
Step 4: After the completion of week 2, a 15-minute check-in call to measure and monitor your success.
Step 5: Repeat Step 3
Step 6: 15-Minute Celebration Call to re-enforce the changes you have made and revise strategies for continued success.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. Success can be yours for only $5 per day, M-F. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
Please pass on this “Thought of the Week” to anyone who needs an encouraging “Thought.”. They can sign up for the “Thought of the Week” by sending me an email at james@evolutionforsuccess.com and place “subscribe” in the subject line. I never share my email list with anyone. Your privacy is of utmost importance to me.
If you wish to unsubscribe, please reply with “Unsubscribe” in the subject line.
7/10/09
Today is the Day...!
The Fourth of July is a great day for America to stop and remember what our country has done for us. Amidst the corruption, affairs, and scandals that cover the headlines everyday we still have the best quality of life and opportunities of any country in the world.
The Fourth of July also has a special place in our family because it is our son’s birthday. He just turned 14 this year and is entering into his early years of transitioning from a boy to a young man. Do you remember what was special about your Birthdays? What made them so magical when you were young?
In today’s modern times the old school courtesies and manners have fallen by the wayside. My father taught to walk on the street side of the sidewalk with a lady. I asked him why and he stated, “because in the old days when there were horses instead of cars, so the guy walked on the street side so that if someone was going to get splashed by the stuff from in the road it was the guy who would get dirty and not the lady.” Another courtesy he taught was the practice for a boy to ask a girl out for a date at least a week in advance? And, if that didn’t happen then the neither had a date that weekend. What was the purpose of asking a young lady out so far in advance?
When you read the title of the “Thought of the Week” did you say to yourself, “Today is the Day…for what I wonder?” Was your curiosity peaked to know what “Today is the Day” for?
Anticipation is very different from Acceptance. As creatures of habit, we often accept our current circumstances and forget to create something compelling in our futures that engages Anticipation. Anticipation leads to Excitement which leads to higher energy levels which leads to greater emotional states. We need that emotional energy to overcome obstacles that stand in the way of achieving goals.
Anticipation of something new and exciting versus acceptance of what life currently is: which is winning in your life today?
“Today is the Day” to set something in your future that will create the Anticipation of something exciting and new. Never accept things are only as good as they can get because no matter what you have been, done, and had you can always Be, Do and Have more. The future can not rely on the past.
Women loved being asked out a week in advance so they could talk to their girlfriends about it all week, agonize over what to wear, dream of the moment when the guy would knock on the door to pick them up. That was probably the highlight of the date many times! That magical moment that was dreamed about, generated excitement, and had that magical spark of being alive! Same for the guy as he walked up to the door and he experienced the eternity between ringing the doorbell and the father welcoming him in to pick up his daughter for the date! It helped to create that magical moment as he saw her come down the stairs dressed up and ready to go out for their date.
It was the Excitement and Anticipation of the Birthday cake, love of friends and family, presents, everyone celebrating the uniqueness of who you are one time a year that made early birthdays so special. And since they only come once per year that certainly created excitement and anticipation for the young child.
And, in today’s economic times we have to look at ourselves to be the change we want to see in America. To keep it great we can not wait for others and ride on their coat tails. If America was made on that psychology we would still be under British Rule. However, the settlers created Anticipation over a concept that went something like this:
One Nation,
Under God,
Indivisible with Liberty &
Justice for All.
That was an incredible ideology to Anticipate becoming real and it certainly created excitement. They did not accept that “now” was good enough. They did not complain and whine at England to change something to make their life better or to have England give them more. At an individual then group level they Anticipated a better way, excitement and commitment to an ideal, and took action to make it happen. Look what it created; we now celebrate the Birth of our Nation every Fourth of July.
I challenge you to step up in any area of your life this week and set a date with yourself way in advance. Stop accepting that your life is all that it can be. Commit to an action that will give your life the Excitement and Anticipation that makes you feel alive! Get excited with the Anticipation of the fireworks at the end! At Walt Disney World, they celebrate with fireworks everyday…you can too!
JULY SPECIAL:
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
Step 1: Complete the Pre-Call Worksheet for a single goal
Step 2: 30-minute Coaching session to set up new strategies for success
Step 3: You send me a daily email or voicemail with the top 3-5 specific things you are committed to do that day to reach your monthly goal. I will personally respond to every email or voicemail with helpful tips, hints, and strategies to overcome your challenges you have along the way
Step 4: After the completion of week 2, a 15-minute check-in call to measure and monitor your success.
Step 5: Repeat Step 3
Step 6: 15-Minute Celebration Call to re-enforce the changes you have made and revise strategies for continued success.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. Success can be yours for only $5 per day, M-F. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
Please pass on this “Thought of the Week” to anyone who needs an encouraging “Thought.”. They can sign up for the “Thought of the Week” by sending me an email at james@evolutionforsuccess.com and place “subscribe” in the subject line. I never share my email list with anyone. Your privacy is of utmost importance to me.
If you wish to unsubscribe, please reply with “Unsubscribe” in the subject line.
The Fourth of July also has a special place in our family because it is our son’s birthday. He just turned 14 this year and is entering into his early years of transitioning from a boy to a young man. Do you remember what was special about your Birthdays? What made them so magical when you were young?
In today’s modern times the old school courtesies and manners have fallen by the wayside. My father taught to walk on the street side of the sidewalk with a lady. I asked him why and he stated, “because in the old days when there were horses instead of cars, so the guy walked on the street side so that if someone was going to get splashed by the stuff from in the road it was the guy who would get dirty and not the lady.” Another courtesy he taught was the practice for a boy to ask a girl out for a date at least a week in advance? And, if that didn’t happen then the neither had a date that weekend. What was the purpose of asking a young lady out so far in advance?
When you read the title of the “Thought of the Week” did you say to yourself, “Today is the Day…for what I wonder?” Was your curiosity peaked to know what “Today is the Day” for?
Anticipation is very different from Acceptance. As creatures of habit, we often accept our current circumstances and forget to create something compelling in our futures that engages Anticipation. Anticipation leads to Excitement which leads to higher energy levels which leads to greater emotional states. We need that emotional energy to overcome obstacles that stand in the way of achieving goals.
Anticipation of something new and exciting versus acceptance of what life currently is: which is winning in your life today?
“Today is the Day” to set something in your future that will create the Anticipation of something exciting and new. Never accept things are only as good as they can get because no matter what you have been, done, and had you can always Be, Do and Have more. The future can not rely on the past.
Women loved being asked out a week in advance so they could talk to their girlfriends about it all week, agonize over what to wear, dream of the moment when the guy would knock on the door to pick them up. That was probably the highlight of the date many times! That magical moment that was dreamed about, generated excitement, and had that magical spark of being alive! Same for the guy as he walked up to the door and he experienced the eternity between ringing the doorbell and the father welcoming him in to pick up his daughter for the date! It helped to create that magical moment as he saw her come down the stairs dressed up and ready to go out for their date.
It was the Excitement and Anticipation of the Birthday cake, love of friends and family, presents, everyone celebrating the uniqueness of who you are one time a year that made early birthdays so special. And since they only come once per year that certainly created excitement and anticipation for the young child.
And, in today’s economic times we have to look at ourselves to be the change we want to see in America. To keep it great we can not wait for others and ride on their coat tails. If America was made on that psychology we would still be under British Rule. However, the settlers created Anticipation over a concept that went something like this:
One Nation,
Under God,
Indivisible with Liberty &
Justice for All.
That was an incredible ideology to Anticipate becoming real and it certainly created excitement. They did not accept that “now” was good enough. They did not complain and whine at England to change something to make their life better or to have England give them more. At an individual then group level they Anticipated a better way, excitement and commitment to an ideal, and took action to make it happen. Look what it created; we now celebrate the Birth of our Nation every Fourth of July.
I challenge you to step up in any area of your life this week and set a date with yourself way in advance. Stop accepting that your life is all that it can be. Commit to an action that will give your life the Excitement and Anticipation that makes you feel alive! Get excited with the Anticipation of the fireworks at the end! At Walt Disney World, they celebrate with fireworks everyday…you can too!
JULY SPECIAL:
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
Step 1: Complete the Pre-Call Worksheet for a single goal
Step 2: 30-minute Coaching session to set up new strategies for success
Step 3: You send me a daily email or voicemail with the top 3-5 specific things you are committed to do that day to reach your monthly goal. I will personally respond to every email or voicemail with helpful tips, hints, and strategies to overcome your challenges you have along the way
Step 4: After the completion of week 2, a 15-minute check-in call to measure and monitor your success.
Step 5: Repeat Step 3
Step 6: 15-Minute Celebration Call to re-enforce the changes you have made and revise strategies for continued success.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. Success can be yours for only $5 per day, M-F. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
Please pass on this “Thought of the Week” to anyone who needs an encouraging “Thought.”. They can sign up for the “Thought of the Week” by sending me an email at james@evolutionforsuccess.com and place “subscribe” in the subject line. I never share my email list with anyone. Your privacy is of utmost importance to me.
If you wish to unsubscribe, please reply with “Unsubscribe” in the subject line.
One Day Closer...
One Day Closer
I read a great book in high school that really left an impression on me. It was “Thinner” by Stephen King. It is an interesting book that held me spellbound. It is all about taking responsibilities for your actions, doing the right thing and the consequences that happen as a result.
Stephen King is one of the greatest authors of my generation. Since his first novel in 1974, Carrie, he has written over 47 novels and the total amount of publications has been over 157 short stories and novels. I read once that he pushes himself to write for a minimum of 8 hours per day. I wonder what he mentally and emotionally faces everyday in order to have that level of commitment to his craft.
My wife just returned from a last minute trip to France. Her brother in law passed away quickly from skin cancer. It has been an interesting last year and a half in our family since this is the fourth family member to pass into God’s Hands. Death is a funny thing in that it always brings out the best in people and sometimes the worst. It really shows a person’s capacity to love and provides real life experiences to show the depth of the relationships we have created in life.
I recently watched the movie “Express.” It was about the first African American Heisman Trophy winner, Ernie Davis. He followed in Jim Brown’s legacy at Syracuse University. After winning the Heisman Trophy in 1962, he died two years later of leukemia. The Cleveland Browns let him dress for the first game and even though he never played a single down in the NFL, and retired his jersey. At his funeral there were over 40,000 people.
My question to you is, “What are you one day closer too?” Logically, everyone knows they are one day closer to death but what else are you one day closer to in your life? What are you one day closer to today mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually? Mark Schultz has a great song that goes,
“So let the rain start falling where it will
And I will run through this valley
Just to climb to that hill
And if they ask why I'm smiling
After all I've been through
It's cause I'm just a day closer to You”
What rain is falling on you in life today: are you troubles financial, emotional , relationships, or a lack of faith? Are you going to keep on moving through the peaks and valleys, overcoming the obstacles and challenges with a smile on your face, and focus on what you are one day closer to that is positive and meaningful?
Ernie Davis was willing to devote his life to a craft that he loved even though in the end he did not achieve his dream of playing in the NFL. However, he attained something else along the way that was even more powerful. Some people think it is the Heisman Trophy, yet I bet even Ernie Davis couldn’t name the 40,000 people that showed up to honor what his life stood for. He was always moving one day closer to being better at what he loved. He was one day closer to being a role model for young African Americans who wanted to believe in a better life and having hope for a brighter future. Fifty years later he could not have known there would be a guy sitting in his living room, watching a movie about his life, and getting a boost of faith and hope to overcome his personal challenges.
My wife returned from France one day closer to building stronger and better relationships with her family she is lucky to see once every couple of years. My kids are one day closer to understanding how much she loves them and works to support them everyday. I am one day closer to strengthening my relationship with her by remembering all that she adds to my life that sometimes I take for granted.
Stephen King will undoubtedly die with many unfinished novels, stories, and ideas in his writing office. However, he has shaped and changed the world. He is one day closer to his 200th novel. He is one day closer to moving someone with his stories and ideas. He is one day closer to a life that will move and inspire others to devote their lives to what they love. He will continue to be a model of success for many years after he has passed on.
Ask yourself today, “What am I one step closer to that will make my life a masterpiece?” Even if you don’t have an answer, make one up and take action. Move one day closer to an even more masterful life.
JULY SPECIAL:
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
Step 1: Complete the Pre-Call Worksheet for a single goal
Step 2: 30-minute Coaching session to set up new strategies for success
Step 3: You send me a daily email or voicemail with the top 3-5 specific things you are committed to do that day to reach your monthly goal. I will personally respond to every email or voicemail with helpful tips, hints, and strategies to overcome your challenges you have along the way
Step 4: After the completion of week 2, a 15-minute check-in call to measure and monitor your success.
Step 5: Repeat Step 3
Step 6: 15-Minute Celebration Call to re-enforce the changes you have made and revise strategies for continued success.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. Success can be yours for only $5 per day, M-F. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
I read a great book in high school that really left an impression on me. It was “Thinner” by Stephen King. It is an interesting book that held me spellbound. It is all about taking responsibilities for your actions, doing the right thing and the consequences that happen as a result.
Stephen King is one of the greatest authors of my generation. Since his first novel in 1974, Carrie, he has written over 47 novels and the total amount of publications has been over 157 short stories and novels. I read once that he pushes himself to write for a minimum of 8 hours per day. I wonder what he mentally and emotionally faces everyday in order to have that level of commitment to his craft.
My wife just returned from a last minute trip to France. Her brother in law passed away quickly from skin cancer. It has been an interesting last year and a half in our family since this is the fourth family member to pass into God’s Hands. Death is a funny thing in that it always brings out the best in people and sometimes the worst. It really shows a person’s capacity to love and provides real life experiences to show the depth of the relationships we have created in life.
I recently watched the movie “Express.” It was about the first African American Heisman Trophy winner, Ernie Davis. He followed in Jim Brown’s legacy at Syracuse University. After winning the Heisman Trophy in 1962, he died two years later of leukemia. The Cleveland Browns let him dress for the first game and even though he never played a single down in the NFL, and retired his jersey. At his funeral there were over 40,000 people.
My question to you is, “What are you one day closer too?” Logically, everyone knows they are one day closer to death but what else are you one day closer to in your life? What are you one day closer to today mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually? Mark Schultz has a great song that goes,
“So let the rain start falling where it will
And I will run through this valley
Just to climb to that hill
And if they ask why I'm smiling
After all I've been through
It's cause I'm just a day closer to You”
What rain is falling on you in life today: are you troubles financial, emotional , relationships, or a lack of faith? Are you going to keep on moving through the peaks and valleys, overcoming the obstacles and challenges with a smile on your face, and focus on what you are one day closer to that is positive and meaningful?
Ernie Davis was willing to devote his life to a craft that he loved even though in the end he did not achieve his dream of playing in the NFL. However, he attained something else along the way that was even more powerful. Some people think it is the Heisman Trophy, yet I bet even Ernie Davis couldn’t name the 40,000 people that showed up to honor what his life stood for. He was always moving one day closer to being better at what he loved. He was one day closer to being a role model for young African Americans who wanted to believe in a better life and having hope for a brighter future. Fifty years later he could not have known there would be a guy sitting in his living room, watching a movie about his life, and getting a boost of faith and hope to overcome his personal challenges.
My wife returned from France one day closer to building stronger and better relationships with her family she is lucky to see once every couple of years. My kids are one day closer to understanding how much she loves them and works to support them everyday. I am one day closer to strengthening my relationship with her by remembering all that she adds to my life that sometimes I take for granted.
Stephen King will undoubtedly die with many unfinished novels, stories, and ideas in his writing office. However, he has shaped and changed the world. He is one day closer to his 200th novel. He is one day closer to moving someone with his stories and ideas. He is one day closer to a life that will move and inspire others to devote their lives to what they love. He will continue to be a model of success for many years after he has passed on.
Ask yourself today, “What am I one step closer to that will make my life a masterpiece?” Even if you don’t have an answer, make one up and take action. Move one day closer to an even more masterful life.
JULY SPECIAL:
COACHING Special: Fast Track for Success in JULY for only $199!!
Here is an example of one of my client’s success last month with the Fast Track Program.
“I have to say that my clothes are already starting to feel much looser. I wore a jacket to church on Sunday and I could already tell that the jacket was much looser. I am also starting to wear several shirts that had just gotten too tight for me but are now starting to fit much better.
Regardless of the weigh-in tomorrow I would say that this program has been a huge success. I was 201.4 at the beginning of the month and I have lost nearly 9 pounds so far. Given the fact that I was completely out of the loop for two weeks with regards to physical activity - one week because of a sinus infection and one week because of surgery, this was mostly achieved through practicing good self-control on the eating front. I am still trying to hit 190 by the end of this week. Also, the only time I have lost weight in the past is when I was on a diet (I have tried several over the years) or on a physical fitness plan.......so, to me, to accomplish this without a "diet" mentality is actually a bigger win than just about anything else. I also noticed this AM that I have much more energy that I did at the beginning of the month.
I have now set a new goal to hit 183 by July 31st.... I am actually confident that I can achieve this goal using this method that we have used here.”
At weigh-in the next morning at the completion of the 30-days with the Fast Track to Success Plan…
“I was at 191.8 this morning.....So, I have lost a total of over 9 1/2 pounds in the last 30 days! I am feeling great! My goals are set for today!”
Thanks,
J.S.
Are you looking to jump start your weight loss for spring, take control of your finances, build a better relationship or take the next step in your career? The Fast Track for Success program allows you to focus on making those consistent changes daily for you to get what you want by making "small deposits every day." Most of us overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in ten.
For only $199 you get a specialized, 6-Step program personalized to achieve your goal.
Step 1: Complete the Pre-Call Worksheet for a single goal
Step 2: 30-minute Coaching session to set up new strategies for success
Step 3: You send me a daily email or voicemail with the top 3-5 specific things you are committed to do that day to reach your monthly goal. I will personally respond to every email or voicemail with helpful tips, hints, and strategies to overcome your challenges you have along the way
Step 4: After the completion of week 2, a 15-minute check-in call to measure and monitor your success.
Step 5: Repeat Step 3
Step 6: 15-Minute Celebration Call to re-enforce the changes you have made and revise strategies for continued success.
The bottom line is that most people are excited to start a goal for 24-48 hours before the emotional high wears off but it takes 17-21 days to develop a new habit.
I invite you to experience more success in a single month than you have had in the first two quarters of this year. Success can be yours for only $5 per day, M-F. The only reason you won't call to achieve the life of your dreams is because of time and money. How many calls and emails do you make in a day? Make one that will change your life! Where else are you guaranteed to experience results and create what you most want in life? Put your investment to good use--on yourself!
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