Speed reading is a much sought after skill that enables you to boost your reading speed, while also improving your comprehension.

Speed reading strengthens your ability to read any style of writing while still understanding the intended and deeper meaning.

For example, when speed reading, you’ll be able to skim right over the less vital pieces of information and pick out the sections which are more important far quicker than by using traditional reading techniques.

Whether you’re already a fast reader or not, once you start training yourself to speed read, you’ll notice your reading rate and retention will vastly improve over time.

Just like anything else, when learning how to read more quickly, you can’t expect to read faster overnight. To learn how to use this skill properly requires time, effort and practice. You’ll need to work at speed reading every day in order to become proficient.

Here are some effective techniques you can use to teach yourself to speed read:

1. Time yourself. When you first begin, time your current reading pace so you’ll have a baseline that you can use for comparisons. Time yourself often when reading to see your growing improvement.

2. Practice improving your speed. Try and force yourself to read a little faster each time you pick up the material. You can do this by skipping over common words like the, to, from, and, etc.

3. Read each and every day. If you only read when you feel like it, you can’t possibly improve. Work a little bit each day, otherwise you may find yourself having to backtrack and relearn skills all over again.

· Go to the library and grab plenty of books to practice with.

· Take time each day to sit down and practice quickly reading a chapter or two, then test your retention by paraphrasing what you read.

4. Learn good reading habits. Work to break yourself of habits that slow your reading down, such as sub-vocalizing words, which is pronouncing words to yourself or moving your lips when reading. Be sure you’re only saying the words in your head.

5. Read with your hand. Moving your hand down the page helps guide your eyes quickly through the material.

6. Avoid re-reading. Practice taking away understanding of your material the first time you read it.

· You can skim through the information from time to time if needed, but avoid re-reading it in depth if you don’t have to.

7. Read in blocks of words. Instead of reading words letter by letter or the information word by word, interpret the author’s ideas in blocks of words.

8. Avoid distractions. Interruptions can interfere with your capability and cause confusion.

· You may want to try reading in the morning or before you go to sleep, when there are likely to be fewer distractions.

Before you can speed read, you first have to make the commitment to continually refine your skills. Practicing speed reading will help you improve your reading, writing and comprehension. As you strengthen your speed reading skills, you’ll soon find that you enjoy reading and learning new things more than ever!

Tagged as: Effective techniques, Speed reading, Strengthens ability, tricks & tips

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Because I am interested in developing strong relationships with people, I let go of the idea that individuals must be perfect to be accepted. I have flaws and want people to love me regardless. I extend that same respect to others.

In seeking the best in people, I strive to remember that there are no bad traits. Issues that challenge relationships are merely the flip side of more positive qualities.

If my co-worker is stubborn, for instance, he is probably also determined and consistent. If my daughter is emotional, she is likely also sensitive and creative. I choose to focus on the positive aspects of the people I love.

I also strive to empower others to become their very best. I point out their good qualities both to them and to others, knowing that people will live up to whatever they believe to be true.

I let go of the desire to berate people for their shortcomings and, instead, try to build up the good that is already there.

I remember that everyone, including me, is a work in progress. When a sculptor creates a work of art, he often throws the same batch of clay many times before the piece begins to take the shape he envisions beneath his hands.

Likewise, people require time and the patient touch of the Creator to reach their full potential. I let go and just enjoy the process of watching them develop, fully believing in the beauty of the final product.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I understand that my loved ones are also works in progress?

2. Do I focus on the positive side of my loved ones’ character traits?

3. How can I empower those I love?

Tagged as: Developing strong relationships, Everybody are work in progress, Focus on positive aspects, Seeing best in others

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Do you have a difficult time staying on task? If you feel as though you’re spending a whole day just trying to get started, while never actually getting anything done, you can do something about it!

There are some very simple ways to help you regain your focus and stay on task, no matter what the day brings. In fact, some of these strategies are so simple that you may question whether they really are effective. The truth is, the simplest of strategies often yields the greatest result.

Here are seven simple tips you can use to help you stay on task:

1. Keep a list. Create a daily task list on paper for your whole day or week. If you think creating a list in your mind is just as effective, think again. The truth is, you’re more likely to waste precious time just trying to remember what’s ahead!

· When you take the time to create a list, you’re giving yourself a visual confirmation of what’s next. When you have a list to refer to, there’s no arguing what comes next and you won’t have any excuse to stray from your plan.

2. Schedule time for meetings and events. Set up specific times when people can come in and interrupt your work. Let your co-workers know what works for you and strive to stick to it as much as possible.

· For example, it’s often helpful if your co-workers know they need to leave you alone for two or three hours in the morning, but then after that they can come in and ask questions or get advice from you as needed.

3. Refuse to check email every five seconds. If you interrupt your workday by checking your email too frequently, you can get side tracked just as you are building momentum. Set specific times when you check email. It could be twice a day, or every few hours, but the goal is to eliminate unnecessary distractions.

· You can also send an automated reply that explains when you check email and when the sender should expect a response. I’m sure people can wait a few hours for a response!

4. Keep off of Facebook, Twitter and instant messaging services. Sure, communicating with your friends and colleagues can make the day go faster, but it distracts you from the task at hand and keeps you from building precious momentum.

· How can you possibly get anything done when you’re immersed in a real-time Twitter conversation? You can’t. So turn it off and go back on when it’s the right time for you.

5. Use headphones to block out noise. If you have trouble focusing on your work because of the noise around you, wear a pair of noise-canceling headphones. If you don’t want any sound at all, get some earplugs; it’ll save your sanity!

6. Get a comfortable chair. Did you know that productivity and comfort go hand-in-hand? It’s true. Having a comfortable chair makes a huge difference in how you think, feel, and perform. If a new chair is out of the budget, get one of those chair cushions. You’ll find that it’s a purchase that pays for itself.

7. Clean up your workspace. When your desk is clean and organized, it’s much easier to stay focused on the task at hand. Why? Because you don’t have to wade through the stacks and clutter to find what you need.

· Even seeing the piles of junk in your peripheral vision may increase your internal tension! Keep only what you need for your current task and put everything else in its place.

Do you think you can implement some of these simple tips in your workflow? I know you can!

You’ll experience a huge difference in your productivity and – more importantly – your happiness, when you apply even just a few of these time-saving techniques. You’ll be able to get more done faster than ever, leaving you with time for more important things, like having fun!

Tagged as: Clean up your workspace, Get a comfortable chair, Keep a list, Keep off of Facebook, Refuse to check email every five seconds, Schedule time for meetings and events, Tips to stay on task, Use headphones to block out noise

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Because I know that my time is limited, I invest some of it in organization so I can be as productive as possible with the rest of it.

I let go of the idea that I can do everything and focus my attention on a few things that matter most to me. I prune out the rest in order to be able to do quality work on those things without stretching myself too far.

Because I am clear on where I am going, I find it natural to break down the steps I need to take to get there. I set realistic daily, weekly and yearly goals so I can accomplish what I set out to do in a reasonable manner.

I let go of the idea that I should be able to finish important projects overnight and, instead, give myself the time I need to do an exceptional job.

I often have many things that I need to remember: names, dates, times, tasks, opportunities, and much more. I utilize a planner and check it regularly because I know that by staying organized I am granting myself greater productivity and a more relaxed life.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I recognize the value of investing time in organization?

2. Do I take advantage of tools that are designed to help me be organized?

3. Are the activities that use up my time contributing to the achievement of my goals?

Tagged as: Focusing on important things, Organizing tasks effectively, Setting realistic goals, Time management, Utilize planner

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If you’re experiencing problems sleeping, there’s a good chance you aren’t getting enough exercise. Both mental and physical exercises are effective ways to help you experience a deeper, more restful sleep.

For some people, exercise is enough on its own to overcome their insomnia. When you exercise, you’re placing extra stress on your body and, in order to compensate for this added stress, your brain dictates a greater need for deep sleep to aid in recovery.

Bright Light and Your Internal Clock

Have you ever noticed during the warmer months, when you’re outside and active, you tend to get tired earlier in the evening? This is due to the extended amount of time you’re exposed to sunlight and the physical activity.

Exercising in a brightly lit area with a lot of sunlight increases your energy levels. Also, increasing your exposure to sunlight helps control your body temperature rhythms that regulate sleep.

What Are the Best Exercises for Fighting Insomnia?

Almost any physical activity can help you combat insomnia. However, there are a few particular exercises that seem to work better than others.

Here’s just a sampling of exercises to overcome insomnia:

• Treadmill – Best when used next to an open window with plenty of sunlight pouring in
• Bicycling – The movement and constant concentration needed are especially effective.
• Stationary Bike – Not as effective as a real bicycle, but works great on rainy days
• Jump Rope – A good exercise to do that’s stationery and requires little equipment
• Dancing – One of the most enjoyable ways to get exercise
• Walking & Jogging Outside – This is probably the easiest way to get exercise, exposure to sunlight and beat insomnia.

What Time is the Most Effective?

The best time to exercise is about 4 – 6 hours before bedtime. If you exercise just before you retire for the night, your body won’t have enough time to cool down properly. This can make it harder to get to sleep. Remember that you should avoid caffeine or eating late, as well.

Get Your Mind Active, Too!

When you exercise your body and mind at the same time, you’ll notice you’ll get a deeper and more fulfilling night sleep. It’s very easy to exercise your mind while you’re involved in physical activity.

Some ways to do this while you’re exercising are:

• Doing simple math problems in your head
• Reciting something you need to remember
• Listening to an audio book or podcast
• Reading a book, newspaper or magazine

Avoid doing the same exercises every day. Mix things up so your activities keep your body and mind fresh and active. Monotony causes the effectiveness of the activities, both physical and mental, to wane.

You may also want to keep a journal of your exercise activities and your sleeping hours. Once in a while, you can analyze what combination of exercises – both mental and physical – gave you the best sleep results. And once you’re equipped with this newfound knowledge, you can create a custom workout, which will improve your health and help you beat the insomnia bug for good!

Tagged as: Best Exercises for fighting Insomnia, Effective time for exercise, Overcoming Insomnia, Routine Exercise, Things to do while exercising

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I am better able to handle trials in my life because I engage in healthy thinking and surround myself with positive energy.

It is often said that God does not give us anything we cannot handle, and I know that this is true. With this knowledge, I can breathe easy and enjoy peace and serenity in my life.

I am able to handle all things that come my way because I allow healing in my mind.

When I am faced with a new challenge, I take a deep breath and allow my mind and body to relax. I take a step back from the problem and look at it with a positive view.

I let go of making the challenge bigger than it really is and I take it one step at a time. I keep my focus positive and allow my healthy mind to explore all possible solutions.

I allow peace to surround me and I enjoy this calm feeling. I let go of the need to worry and create chaos in my life.

Today, I strive to practice healthy thinking and allow peace and serenity to heal my mind and strengthen my soul. I choose to peacefully tackle all challenges so I can declare my success.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Have I remained positive today?

2. Have I let go of the need for chaos in my life?

3. Have I allowed peace and serenity to heal my mind?

Tagged as: Allow mind and body to relax, Healing mind, Healthy thinking, Look at things positively, Surround in peace, Tackle new challenges

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If you have children, you know how hard it can be at times to get them to do the things they should. Between after school activities, video games, cell phones, and computers, convincing your kids to take care of their household chores and other responsibilities can be a real challenge.

The truth is, not every method of motivation will work with your child. Also, what works for one child may be detrimental to another!

· As parents, it’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting to be a friend to your child, but your goal is to be their leader, teacher, and motivator, too!

Here are a few things you can try to help motivate your kids to get things done:

1. Kids love praise. Your kids want your attention and praise. If they know that doing the things they’re supposed to do will bring them praise, they’re more likely to do those things. You’re their parent and they want to make you proud of them.

· By encouraging them and praising them frequently, you’re reinforcing good behavior.

2. Offer rewards. Often, children are motivated by rewards. The rewards don’t have to be large or involve money. You can reward your children by:

• Spending time with them doing an activity they enjoy
• Reading to them
• Playing games with them
• Curling up and watching a movie together

• All of these rewards are positive motivators for your children. They’ll be much more eager to do their household chores if the reward is something they can look forward to.

3. Lead by example. If your kids see you doing nothing all day long, they’ll feel as if it’s okay for them to do the same thing. Remember that your children are like a sponge and they look up to you and want to emulate you.

• Show your kids that regular tasks can be rewarding. For example, seeing a bunch of separate ingredients transform into cookies that get compliments can give your child a confidence boost to help out again next time!

4. Fear of consequences. There’s a big difference between consequences and punishment. When your children don’t do the things they’re supposed to do, you can teach them how their actions or inactions can have a negative impact on their lives and the lives of others.

· Take something away for a short period and explain why you’re doing it and how they can earn it back. This example of natural and logical consequences is essential preparation for adult life.

5. Show love. Your children need and want your love and devotion. Get involved in their lives. If your child is really interested in something, do it with them!

· Showing children you appreciate them and respect their choices will build a deeper bond between you. When you ask them to get something done, they’ll be more likely to do it because of the mutual respect between you.

Motivating your children isn’t always easy. It takes dedication and consistency to provide the example and direction needed to build a child’s character.

While it may seem easier to throw in the towel and do things yourself, standing steadfast and finding new ways to motivate your kids is much more likely to help him become a productive, responsible adult.

As a parent, it’s your job to mold your children into caring, responsible and respectful adults. Remember, children are people too and are motivated by the same things that motivate anyone else.

Things like love, attention, pleasure, rewards and recognition top the list of things children crave in their lives. Heaping these essential motivators onto your children will provide great rewards throughout their lives.

Tagged as: Encouraging, Motivating children, Praising, Show love, Spending time with kids, Things to motivate kids

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I have an outlet to relieve my stress and engaging in it regularly is a priority for me. I know I am happiest and most productive when I have regular ways of letting off steam, so I view these times as equally important as my work.

It is my choice in how I spend my time relieving stress. I may choose to play sports, read, watch a movie, go to a concert, or have a relaxing bubble bath. There is no one right way to unwind.

I know my own mind and body better than anyone, so I engage in activities that satisfy and nurture my soul.

Even though I work, take care of my family, and do everything that is part of being a productive, adult member of society, I plan time for myself regularly.

I maintain balance in my life. I recognize that work is good; however, I avoid the tendency to take this to an extreme and become a slave to my job!

I give my relaxation activities as much priority as I do my work projects. I know I can be my best self only if I take the time and opportunity to de-stress regularly.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What activity most helps relieve my stress?

2. Do I give my relaxation activities as much priority as my work?

3. Do I make my own decisions regarding what relaxation activities would best meet my needs?

Tagged as: Activities to relieve stress, Maintain balance in life, Plan time for yourself, Priority for relaxation activities, Stress relieving

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Body language is one way of communication that we pay little attention to. Oftentimes others “hear” something from our body language that we didn’t even realize we were “saying” and it can come back to haunt us!

Some experts say that up to half of our communication is conveyed through body language. That’s a lot more than most of us might imagine it to be!

Learning to read body language can help you understand what someone is really saying. Conversely, learning to use body language can help you communicate your message more effectively than words alone.

What is Body Language?

Body language is a form of non-verbal communication that utilizes the body. It can be anything from a facial expression to a stance.

For instance, many people talk in an animated fashion, using their body to help communicate their thoughts. There are a lot of “hand talkers” in the world who keep their hands in constant motion to help them convey information, emphasize a point, or keep a story moving along.

Body language can give off a certain attitude based simply on posture alone.

• Slumped shoulders and a rounded back with the head hanging down may indicate sadness or shyness.
  
• A firm walk with the chest puffed out, shoulders raised and head held high could be interpreted as confidence or even arrogance.
  
• When someone has his or her arms folded across the chest, this position tends to be understood as a standoffish or unfriendly stance.

It’s truly amazing how much can be perceived from body language! Not only can you use body language to judge an individual’s attitude or mood, but you can also better understand relationships between others. These non-verbal cues can indicate the level of bonding people have to one another.

Body language can be broken into general categories that we see time and time again.

General Body Language Categories

1. Aggressive. Aggressive body language is threatening by nature.

2. Attentive. This type of body language shows that you’re engaged and interested.

3. Bored. Just as it says, this body language is the opposite of attentive and is indicated by yawns and lack of eye contact or other visual listening cues.

4. Closed. This one shuts you off from others. Arms crossed and standing far away are two common signals of closed language.

5. Deceptive. Deceptive body language is often used when someone is trying to get away with a lie. It can be easily distinguished by nervous behavior, which is brought on by guilt and worry.

6. Defensive. This kind of body language tends to be present when someone is protective of information or their inner thoughts.

7. Dominant. Those who like to be in command use dominant body language. Dominant people tend to stand tall with their chest puffed out.

8. Emotional. This one is influenced heavily by feelings at any given moment. It’s constantly changing with mood.

9. Evaluation. Evaluating body language is used when making a decision or hesitating to make a judgment.

10. Greeting. This type of body language is used when first coming into contact with people.

11. Open. Open body language is welcoming and very friendly in nature.

12. On the Ready. This type of body language lets people know you’re prepared and willing.

13. Relaxed & Content. Relaxed body language is that which is seen when people are restful, happy, and calm.

14. Passionate. Romantic body language is flirty and expresses attraction for another.

15. Submissive. This one shows your relenting side.

These are the most common ideas communicated through a stance or combination of poses or posture. Many body positions can have different meanings depending on the person, the situation, or their culture.

In the United States, for example, it’s polite to look into another person’s eyes intermittently to show you’re listening to them. In Japan it’s considered rude. While it’s commonplace for Americans to smile at one another as a show of friendliness, in Korea smiles are indicators of embarrassment and aren’t shared in public.

When traveling abroad, it is best to do as the Romans do, that is, follow suit with the practices of the culture you’re visiting so that you can communicate your ideas appropriately.

It’s important to be more aware of what your body is saying when you talk to others! Keeping these body language tips in mind will strengthen both your comprehension and communication skills, paving the way for more effective interactions with others.

Tagged as: Aggressive, Attentive, Attitude of Body language, Body language categories, Bored, Defensive, Dominant, emotional, Greeting, Open, Read Body Language

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