Why Smiling Is Worth Much More Than $45

June 28, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.”

William Arthur Ward

In 1963, a graphic designer from Worcester, Massachusetts, was hired by an insurance company to come up with an image to boost employee morale. His name was Harvey Ross Ball. The design he created lives on to this day and is none other than the happy face ☺.

The story goes that it took him just 10 minutes to come up with the famous yellow smiley face.

Imagine an instant hit and an enduring impact created in the time it takes to boil an egg.

And so Harvey was paid for his work, a mere $45, but the rest is history. He created something he probably never imagined would become world-famous and valuable for our daily life :).

And this is the point of this story. If one person creates or does a thing, how far is its impact felt?

Let’s take a smile, for instance, or a good word you might give to someone.

Your act of smiling might lift someone's spirits. They might get through a tough day because you smiled at them.

The same might go for encouraging words you give your daughter or son. You never know what effect you might have when you do or say something.

In this sense, we are all potential creators, just like Harvey Ross Ball. The only thing is we did not get paid $45 or go down in history for making the epic happy face.

But then again, something we do or say might have a ripple effect that impacts others in a way we never imagined. How valuable is that?

Now that puts a smile on my face ☺. How about yours?

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Don't Be A Donkey - Get Unstuck!

June 21, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

Buridan's ass is a paradox about decision-making and moving forward in life. It describes a hypothetical situation where an ass or donkey that is both hungry and thirsty in the same proportion, is placed precisely midway between a stack of hay and a pail of water. The assumption is that the donkey will always go to whichever thing is closer and since both are equal distance, it dies of both hunger and thirst. The donkey simply can’t make up its mind about the hay or water.

We all know people who suffer unnecessarily and even freeze into a kind of analysis paralysis because they can’t make up their minds. It’s self-inflicted torture and pain that can be avoided. Each person just needs to figure out what they want the most and take action which can then be followed by the second choice or another choice later. In a worst-case scenario, just flip a coin and go with whatever comes up - Heads or Tails! There is no reason to be frozen or stuck in your life because time is like a forward-flowing river and we can’t just stand in it. We HAVE TO make decisions so we might as well get good at the process.

The best way to make decisions involves realizing some things and I’m sharing these below for your benefit:

First, what’s the worst that can happen if we make the wrong decision on food or drink or anything else? Buying this property or that other property? Going to this school or that school? Certain decisions are truly profound and life-changing so they need to be made very carefully. Many others like what to wear, what to eat, or what show to watch, etc… are low risk and just need a decision to be made.

Second, figure out if the other option in front of you disappears or is just delayed a little if you picked wrong. Can you recover quickly from what you might consider a wrong decision or is it a very big recovery effort in terms of time, money, or effort? This will make decision-making a little easier and less painful.

Third, create a life with fewer trivial decisions. Do this by deciding ahead of time on clothes to wear or food to eat so it’s automated. Save your mental energy for truly significant decisions each day so you are not drained by all the small decisions you made leading up to one or two big ones each day. Have a uniform of clothes you wear on weekdays, make the same 2 or 3 breakfast items each day, and say “NO” to most tv shows or social engagements that everyone else is doing. When you develop mental space for making decisions and are not cluttering your life with too many things to think about, you will make better decisions on the things that matter.

In the end, decide to live your own life on your terms and according to your values. Don’t worry about what others will think of you or be scared to make a ‘tragic’ decision. Your daily choices are probably not “Life or Death” issues so don’t be so stressed about them.

Most of life is “fixable” by choosing wisely again if a mistake has been made and you immediately start to correct course. Don’t worry so much about being embarrassed or your public image because you made a few wrong turns. What really matters is how hard you are trying to do the right things and fix mistakes when you realize what happened.

Choices are a part of life so ‘choose your own adventure’ and enjoy the ride. In many cases, things will work out as good or better than you thought!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Why its' Better to be a Lark if you want to be Happy, Successful, and Pious

June 13, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

“The one who gets up early gets rewarded by God”

Polish Proverb

A recent study I read showed a connection between the wake/sleep patterns of humans and how successful as well as happy, they tend to be in life. The two camps or Chronotypes that can describe when we like to sleep and rise up are “Owls” and “Larks”. Those who like to stay up late and have energy mostly at night time but don’t like to get up early in the morning are called Owls. The people who like to go to bed earlier and wake up energized early in the morning are called Larks.

According to the study I read, the Larks tend to be disciplined and focused individuals who always strive to get things done right whereas an Owl personality might just want to get things over with however the task is complete. The Larks also tend to have the personal satisfaction levels high and it’s probably due to their spiritual beliefs and practices. The concept of a higher power and a purpose in life gives many people fulfillment in life. It’s no doubt that the Larks tend to be more successful human beings as a result compared to the Owl types. Having Discipline, Purpose, and Preparation are a winning combination for any personality.

Whether you like to scroll through YouTube and Netflix late at night (early morning?) or whether you like to sleep and rise with the sun, it’s worth considering what values you hold dear and where you are in terms of success, happiness, and piety. I hope you consider becoming more of a “morning person” if you aren’t already. It could change your life in all the right ways!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Breaking the Four-Minute Mile: The Phenomenal Story of Dr. Roger Bannister

June 7, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

"Just as we develop our physical muscles through overcoming opposition - such as lifting weights - we develop our character muscles by overcoming challenges and adversity."
Stephen Covey

What are the limits to your potential?

Can you do “that something” you always felt excited over but keep chickening out or putting off?

Why are you holding back or not even trying?

Maybe you don’t realize that you are good enough. You ARE strong enough, and just maybe, you could be breaking records like Dr. Bannister if only you tried hard enough!

The following story I came across is briefly mentioned in our book, Awesome Life:

Roger Bannister was born in Harrow, England, on March 23, 1929. As a young boy, Bannister

showed great athletic potential and went on to attend Oxford University, where he studied

medicine.

Throughout his time at university, Bannister continued pursuing his passion for running, becoming a dominant force in middle-distance running. However, one elusive goal had yet to be accomplished: breaking the four-minute mile.

At the time, the four-minute mile was considered an insurmountable barrier. Many believed that the human body simply could not run that fast. But Bannister was determined to prove them wrong.

On May 6, 1954, at the Iffley Road track in Oxford, Bannister lined up with two other runners to attempt to break the four-minute mile. Unfortunately, conditions were far from ideal, with strong winds and rain making for a challenging race.

But despite the odds, Bannister pushed himself to the limit, crossing the finish line in three minutes and 59.4 seconds. The crowd erupted into cheers as Bannister collapsed onto the track, exhausted but elated.

Bannister’s accomplishment was a watershed moment in the history of athletics. It proved that the limits of human potential were not fixed, and anything was possible with enough determination and hard work.

In the years following his historic achievement, Bannister continued to compete in and win numerous races, but it was his breaking of the four-minute mile that remained his most enduring legacy. He went on to pursue a career in medicine, becoming a respected neurologist and continuing to advocate for the importance of physical activity and fitness throughout his life.

Bannister passed away on March 3, 2018, but his legacy lives on as an inspiration to athletes and non-athletes alike, a reminder that anything is possible with the right mindset and a willingness to push oneself to new levels of performance.

Life is awesome and short. We are here, and then we are not. If you feel like there is a mountain you still need to climb, you should recall the story and accomplishments of Dr Roger Bannister. Imagine yourself beating your own 4-minute mile.

Start a 4 Minute Mile Challenge, personally or with a friend. If you like, you could start a 4 Minute Mile Challenge with a few friends or consider having a workplace challenge.

Feel free to post this entire article as an introduction to the concept: go ahead; I challenge you!

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Are you Blooming Yet?

May 21, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By: Shazad

It’s full-on Spring time in North America and it’s been a beautiful May in many areas. Flowers are blooming, the air is fresh, the grass is lush green and the forests are full of life again. How are you doing? What’s your personal development and growth plan for this year?

Until and Unless you take action, you will still be stuck in the “Winter” of life and all the struggles of that season. All seasons in life have their lessons and benefits but we cannot stay longer in one stage longer than required. It doesn’t serve us and certainly doesn’t serve our families or society so make plans to grow this season!

Figure out what your personal growth plan for 2023 needs to be and how far along you are. Where do you need to make adjustments and what things are going well that you just need to do more of? How many flowers and trees in your garden will be a reflection of the ‘gardening’ efforts you engage in this year. Once you establish your ideal growth plan and steps, you’ll need to maintain the ‘garden’ so it doesn’t become a victim of disease, neglect, and preventable risk.

Guard your personal growth space and share it with your family for their benefit as well. Cultivate a better nature and mindset throughout the process and imagine what beautiful things you will grow into this year before they arrive. Use inspiration from your past growth and the development of people similar to you. No two blooms will be the same and that’s ok. The best thing is to make sure you participate in the resurgence of life and beauty with purpose happening all around you. Live Awesome!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Make Room for Magical Moments

May 17, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

We all struggle with too much going on. So many people are always ‘too busy’ and have no time for the things that matter. The modern disease of so much to do and not enough time to do it all has spread everywhere. There is a cure worth considering.

Everyone needs to get real with what’s occupying all the hours of the day. Serious audits of who and what is sucking time away from us and filling up our calendars. Changing attitudes towards purpose-driven living can also help versus just going through the motions.

Magical moments come when we least expect it but there is a way to create more of them. Have space in your calendar. Stop being ‘busy’ all the time and say NO to more things so you can say YES! when it matters. We all know that we should live in the present moment. Few know how to do it. Saying NO to most things is a BIG part of that. What’s left in your calendar is what you should passionately pursue so you can thrive. Don’t let your whole calendar be filled up with other people’s agendas. Have your own plan for the days and life in general. Guard your time more than you do your assets or money.

When’s the last time you felt AWE in your day? When was the last time you paid attention to something beautiful like the spring blossoms in a forest or park. Have you been able to just focus on the new leaves and the smell of the blossoms on the tree? Have you enjoyed the feeling of new grass on your bare feet on a warm day? Try going to a beach and go at least knee deep in the lake or ocean to feel what that feels like. All of these are magical moments you are missing if you are just ‘keeping busy’ all day long. You are not only cheating yourself but your family of the moments they need to thrive. Take time off work or school and create some magical moments of your own this week. You won’t regret it!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

The Magic of Living Better Not Just Living Longer

May 10, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

“I would rather be ashes than dust!
I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot.
I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in a magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet.
The function of man is to live, not to exist.
I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them.
I shall use my time.”

Poem by Jack London featured in James Bond, “No Time to Die” movie

Many people are talking about life extension, longevity, and living beyond 100 years old. Few are talking about living better lives with the time we have. Life is not something to merely stretch out but a process to learn, adjust, and enjoy the time we have been given. No one knows for certain how many birthdays are left and everyone will likely say they want to ‘live longer’ but I believe they really want to Live Better.

Well-Being should be our focus in life and all efforts should be aligned on this goal.

Living well and being happy as you age is about some key principles. Three of these are: Being in the Present Moment, Having a Healthy Mind and Body, and Living with Purpose.

Being Present in daily tasks and considering all time as valuable. Brushing teeth, preparing kids for school, taking public transit somewhere, doing groceries, etc. are all mundane parts of our daily routine and can be enjoyable if we pay attention.

Having a Healthy Mind and Body is not negotiable. No one enjoys any day they are sick or tired, or suffering from anxiety. Self-care to manage mental health as well as being physically fit is required to live well. Two to Three Strength Training sessions each week and regular walks will benefit everyone. Mobility or stretching as well as breathing exercise go a long way to achieve all that is needed every day to relax and improve blood flow. Digestion, sleep, and mood also get better with these habits.

Knowing your BIG WHY or reason for living is a fundamental part of the Well Being Formula. You need to be very clear about what you are trying to accomplish as a big life goal or a handful of goals (no more than 3) for the rest of your lives. Writing this down and reviewing it daily sets our internal guidance system so we just spend each day “Driving” a little closer to our destination instead of figuring out what we are supposed to do and what the meaning of life is. Talk with family and make sure everyone is aligned on things that matter. This will help to get them on board to either support your Life Purpose or even make it part of their own!

Making the years longer and celebrating more birthdays would be Awesome for most people but what’s even better is to make the best use of the time we have. To live with purpose, presence, and vitality each day knowing that we may not have another one, is how we truly Live Awesome!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Is Your Life Meaningless Or Magical?

May 3, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

I came across a quote by Franz Kafka, a novelist who said,

“The meaning of life is that it ends.”

I thought the quote reminded me to live life to the fullest, which certainly resonates with me. Others feel that this was Kafka’s meaning for his statement.

However, after googling, I discovered that he felt that life was absurd and meaningless.

That got me thinking. Is he right?

Let me add to this thinking about life.

“Life is meaningless, absurd, and random or it can be purposeful, adventurous, and magical; take your pick.”⎯Ahsan

I'll be the first to agree that some days seem like a repeat of the last, and boredom can set in. But does that mean life is meaningless or absurd?

Other days are surprisingly fulfilling and leave you with a sense of wonder and gratitude for getting to be alive one more day.

So who and what is responsible for making life magical and magnificent or miserable and meaningless?

Start by looking at the person in the mirror.

Life is what you make it and, more accurately, what you think of it.

We experience life as we think about our circumstances and what is happening to us. When we think well of someone, we feel love or kinship with that person. We feel irritated when we think negatively about a situation like being stuck in traffic. What we think we experience.

So, dear friend, please try to think yourself into a great experience of life.

That’s it. That’s all.

Life is what you think of it, and I have a sneaky suspicion that those who think life is magical are doing life much better than those who knowingly or unwittingly pontificate that life is meaningless.

So get off the path that leads to meaningless absurdity and stay on the track of purpose and magicalization.

I will try my best too. Have a magical week.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

The Magic of Smiling

April 26, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

Have you ever thought about the major benefits of smiling?

Why is it that we smile and is it even useful? I am sure you have gone a whole day without smiling at someone or being smiled at. But what if smiling disappeared from the world? Would it matter?

Let me assure you that smiling is an important thing that we cannot lose. I would even say that it is more valuable than gold and as important to the functioning of life on Earth as water, air, or sunshine.

Allow me to make my case with the following poem given to me by an old friend named Paul.

Smiles

Perhaps you never stop to think

How much a smile can do.

A smile can make a moment bright,

Or help a dream come true.

A smile is like a priceless gift

That can be passed along;

It makes a burden lighter, too,

And often rights a wrong.

A smile can say “I understand,”

Or simply, “I’m your friend.”

A sincere smile can sometimes bring

A quarrel to an end.

A smile cannot be bought or sold,

Or lost, or thrown away.

So why not keep some smiles on hand

To share, day after day!

If you analyze the poem, you will see that smiles do the following things that bring light to our lives:

They celebrate moments.

They put you in a positive state of mind that is conducive to achieving your goals.

They are a gift to be given with a never-ending supply.

They can alleviate stress and hardships.

They can make peace.

They convey empathy and sympathy.

They signal the type of person you are.

They can end war.

They cost nothing and are yet invaluable.

They are abundant and always around us.

They should be valued, treasured and shared.

So dear friend, take note of how smiling is magical and something to appreciate.

In fact, go forth boldly today knowing you have found a universal gift that will enrich you.

Please be sure to like and share this idea of smiling with all those you come into contact with each day! ☺

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Ramadhan and The Benefits of Doing Hard Things

April 19, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

The Muslim holy month of Ramadhan is coming to a close and I have learned to appreciate the life lessons from daily fasting that span the time just before Dawn to Sunset each day. It was definitely challenging and no two days were exactly the same for me. Being hard rather than easy was the point of the month. Beyond the spiritual aspect, we have a human element related to being difficult for our own benefit. But why do hard things make us better human beings?

We have lots of conveniences and comfort in life. Some would say that we have too much of it and have become soft or ‘fragile’ societies. The antidote is to inject some toughness and challenges into our lives to remind us what that feels like and how great it feels to do hard things. There’s no better satisfaction that compares to working hard to achieve something. True fulfillment in life comes after accomplishing a series of hard things over and over again.

Doing hard work frequently makes people more immune to and tolerant of daily stressors in life so we develop patience, perspective, and practical ways of living. If we only did easy things and always got our way, we would become like little children who often cry when things frustrate them or they are told “No”. There is no good reason for an adult to behave like a spoiled child. Ever!

The best part of challenging yourself such as daily fasting, focusing on prayers, and shunning materialistic things for some length of time is the human transformation you experience. A person who frequently does hard things regularly changes into a stronger and more capable person as part of the journey. There is no end to the life-changing benefits of living a challenging life with some trials and hardships woven in there whether it’s intentional or unexpected. Human beings are capable of so much mental, spiritual, and even physical growth in terms of becoming better human beings. So, what hard things do you have planned for this year?

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Unleashing Your Inner Child: How to Have a Fun Day at Any Age

April 12, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

Can you recall a particular day when you were a child that was the best day ever?

Was it a day filled with friends playing at the park in the morning, followed by a basketball game in the afternoon, and then going out to have footlong kababs and naans in the evening with your family?

Wouldn’t it be nice to recreate that kind of day every day?

Sometimes our days start to feel like a repetition of the previous day, and we feel like we are driving through a flat stretch of road for hours on end. No scenery, no music to listen to, and no exciting conversations.

That wouldn’t just be boring but cause a person to feel like life is equally flat!

Perhaps, we can break out of this repetitive rut by taking on a mental approach to having a fun day called “Fun With Intention Planning” or FUNTENTION PLANNING.

Introducing: FUNTENTION PLANNING

This is a new and revolutionary method of creating zest and zing in your life!

It requires prompting yourself to think about your day uniquely, generating endless possibilities and the greatest probability of lying in your bed every night thinking, "What a fun day I had!”

You will never have another dull day in your life again.

So here is the template that is required to successfully make Funtention Planning natural and effective:

First, divide your day into its natural parts: Morning, Afternoon and Evening.

Next, for each part of the day, identify and include an activity you will engage in or will be engaging in if it was planned for you. Hey, sometimes you got to visit the in-laws, right?

Finally, think of a way to make that thing you will be doing more fun! I love talking to my mother-in-law, honest!

For example, you might start the morning with an excellent breakfast that you would have anyway, but instead of just eating it in a rush, you add an extra fifteen minutes to sit down and savour your steak and eggs and fresh black coffee.

Eating breakfast can be fun!

In the afternoon, you might have a client meeting, but instead of just going through the motions, you ask them, "What's going well in your life?" Having a meaningful conversation with someone adds colour and dimension to your meeting.

Memorable meetings make things fun.

For the evening, instead of just coming home, rushing through dinner, and watching your show afterward, why not plan an after-dinner walk with your spouse, followed by listening to some relaxing music?

Enjoying some exercise and listening to good music can definitely be fun.

Life should be fun! You don't have to be locked in a replay of rinse-and-repeat days. You don't have to live a flat and boring life. Instead, make the mundane…marvelous.

Funtention Planning is all about dividing and conquering. Divide your day; look at what is possible to enjoy and conquer boredom by adding that “funness” with intention and have a more awesome life.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Why You Need To Think Better So Can You Achieve Your Goals

April 5, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

I have had many coaches and mentors in my life, but one of them stands out and stands the test of time.

He is the most famous personal development coach and motivator that you can think of.

Can you guess? Who comes to mind?

Of course, the one and only Tony Robbins.

Over the years, I have invested in some of his at-home study materials and heard from him through social media. Most of what I learned through him has been usable and impacted my personal success and achievement in life.

I even have had the unique honour of attending a live presentation of Tony's mentor, the late Mr. Jim Rohn. Being the enthusiastic student that I am, I made notes of that 2-hour speech by Mr. Rohn and have kept them over the last 27 years. Tony's book, “Awaken the Giant Within” was something I read and made notes on over 29 years ago.

The stuff these gentlemen teach is gold, and it works.

But do you know why it works?

What is the key to making it work? Is it taking massive action? Is it about having a great attitude? What about discipline?

Keep thinking.

I will reveal what the key to all this is soon. But for now, let's look at some recent advice I came across from Mr. Robbins.

The gist of what I read was that to achieve the greatness in life that you seek, you should challenge and overcome your limiting beliefs. You should face your fears and see how that way of thinking impacts you negatively and your mindset for success. It would be best to shift your perspective on what meaning you give to things in life. And that you should change your self-talk by changing your internal language and beginning your day with positive affirmations. And that getting a coach will be one of the most effective ways to change your mindset.

I can’t argue with any of the points above. How about you?

It all makes sense to me.

But why is it going to work? What is the operating principle behind this magical stuff that Tony rightfully guides us to?

It is simply this. Your reality and the experience you have of life are constantly and consistently coming from one source: your thinking.

We are thinking beings. Your gift of thinking enables you to challenge your limiting beliefs, face your fears, shift your perspective, and change your self-talk and mindset.

You do what you think. You feel what you think. You act or don’t act based on what you think, your attitude comes from your thinking, and your discipline can also be traced to your thinking.

Here is the operating principle to living an awesome life: Think Thoughtfully!

Just follow these 3 rules:

Know that you were given a gift from your Creator: the gift of thinking.
Use your thinking as a gift that it was designed to be.
Become consciously aware that whatever you are doing, not doing, feeling, or achieving is 100% coming from your thinking.

Thoughts are responsible for our emotions and behaviours. Our environment and situations are not the sources of our reality; rather, our thinking about our environment and situations is. Positive and constructive thoughts eliminate fear, shift perspective and change limiting beliefs.

Your entire life up to this point and until you leave this world is and will be based on your thinking.

You may as well get comfortable with the idea that you have the power to change your thoughts. This will awaken the giant within you like nothing else.

Personal growth and transformation are possible by managing and influencing your thinking!

I hope you think what I am saying makes sense. You don't have to just believe me, but please spend time thinking about it and see for yourself!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

3 Powerful Life Lessons From The Month of Ramadhan

March 29, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

The Muslim month of Ramadhan started last week and for over a Billion Muslims, this is a very spiritual time of the year. The communal prayers, fasting, and charitable giving are common themes shared by all Muslims around the world. There are at least 3 life lessons I have learned in this holy month and I’m going to share how everyone can benefit from these regardless of whether you are a Muslim or not. Consider these the literal equivalent of 3 juicy dates to break your fast today.

The first important lesson is “Less is More”. As we observe fasting from before dawn to local sunset time, we realize how to survive on less food, water, sleep, and free time. We understand the benefit of quality food and having space in our calendar for fewer but more meaningful things like contemplation about our spiritual life. Muslims are instructed to give up bad habits and shun entertainment as well as vain discussions. This allows us to find what is meaningful in life. This elimination of unnecessary thoughts and activities helps the believer realize what is truly essential and how to return to these things whenever we need to.

The second important lesson is made possible after the first one. It’s the ability to go deep in study to focus on something. For practicing Muslims, the study of the Holy Quran and participation in additional congregational prayers allows for greater spiritual understanding and brotherhood. In a distracted world with so many things competing for our attention, we’ve lost the ability to go deep in thought and actually study anything in great detail. By taking the time each day to read, contemplate, and integrate knowledge into our daily life, we become wiser and happier.

The third important lesson we should all learn in Ramadhan is compassion for others. By experiencing this voluntary hardship of hunger, thirst, and disturbance in sleep, we should develop an understanding of what other people of the world are going through. The ability to empathize with the poor, the sick, and those suffering from various mental issues should encourage us to behave better in society. Muslims are encouraged to give more to charity as well as volunteer their time on a regular basis. Everyone can develop more consideration for fellow human beings if we just remember what struggles and pain we have faced in life. We should feel connected to everyone else and live in a way that benefits society as much as possible.

So there you have it. Ramadhan is not just about staying away from food and drink during daylight hours or having big feasts with family and friends at sunset. There are powerful life lessons about what is truly essential, how to focus attention, and the ways we are all connected. To our Muslim readers, we say Ramadhan Mubarak! To all of the rest of you, we wish you a purposeful, prosperous, and pious life.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

52 Awesome Life Lessons Learned So Far

March 21, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

I will be celebrating 52 years of age this year. That’s 52 successful turns around the Sun and all the birthdays marking the blessings of being alive one more year. I have learned a number of valuable things with the passage of time and I’m going to share these with you. I’m sure many points will resonate with you because these ideas are all part of our shared human journey.

1. Quality is more important than quantity.

2. The biggest regrets in life are about the things not done and the time not spent with loved ones.

3. Travelling is life-changing and is the best use of time and resources.

4. Self Discipline is powerful and more important than motivation or being pushed by someone else.

5. Other people’s thoughts about me are much less important than what I think about myself.

6. Ordinary people trying their best with what they have are the real heroes in life.

7. The purpose of life is about living a life of purpose.

8. We don’t choose our genetics, background, or entry into the world but we have a lot of power over our growth, decisions, and our journey through this world.

9. Age, weakness, and death are all parts of life rather than something to fight against. Accept and embrace your mortality.

10. The Purpose of Higher Education is to learn how to learn and then apply things. It’s not about the Degree and all about the skill of gaining knowledge. The purpose is to become wiser as well as aware of the limits of our own knowledge.

11. Say NO to many things and make space in the calendar for the right things to say YES to. This becomes most important when you are married and have children.

12. It’s better to seek a peaceful and fulfilling life rather than a vague notion of momentary happiness.

13. Enduring stress and rare moments of suffering can positively transform a person. Passing through these moments can be a great way to become the next best version of yourself.

14. Luck truly is when Opportunity, Consistency, and Hard Work line up for a successful outcome. Do your part of the work and you will keep experiencing good luck.

15. Deep attachment to things is a weakness that will be exploited by others and will result in mental suffering.

16. Taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually is not a luxury but a necessity that benefits every part of life.

17. There are seasons in life with different priorities, adventures, responsibilities, and sacrifices. Fully Enjoy each season and don’t wish you were in another one because that is self-inflicted pain you don’t need.

18. It’s more important to understand and create systems for success. This is better than performing a bunch of habits or learning a variety of facts.

19. A few good friends that you keep in touch with for decades are better than 100+ followers on social media. You will likely never spend any time with those who follow you online.

20. Writing things down clears up the mind and reduces stress. It also helps to remember and learn things better.

21. Anger is normal but should be controlled and managed because just like a fire, it can destroy people and things when it’s used as a weapon.

22. The Story in life is more important than the raw facts or information about something. Ask yourself what is the narrative you are telling yourself as you go through a life experience.

23. Collect memories, experiences, and photos of the life you have lived. These are more important than money, fame, and Social Media Likes.

24. If you cannot make time for big things, try to break them down into smaller chunks to manage resources.

25. Use humour in your day. Find the funny in life and you will enjoy yourself more.

26. Give sincere praise regularly. Make it a habit to say Thank You to people often. Even if it is for small acts of human kindness you experience each day.

27. Try to figure out how much one hour of your attention is worth and never waste it or accept less “pay” than you deserve.

28. Find at least 5 people that are motivated and capable of positive life changes so you can be friends with them. Help each other reach their full potential in life.

29. Review your mistakes, failures, and near misses at success. Analyze what went wrong so you can avoid the same mistakes next time.

30. Of the many virtues in life, Courage, Wisdom, Temperance, and Justice are some of the best to keep in mind at all times.

31. There is a benefit to moving fast and adjusting the course as you go. There is also a benefit to proper planning before a journey and estimating the hurdles before you face them.

32. Tactics and Strategies are both important in life. Don’t ignore either one of these.

33. Do good things and then move on to the next good deed. Don’t dwell on what you have done for others.

34. Manners, principles, discipline, and kindness go a long way in human relationships so make them part of your character.

35. Don’t wait for someone to rescue you from your situation. You have to be the hero of your own life through the right conduct and wisdom.

36. Expect resistance, friction, and general twists in the plot. You will be less frustrated in life and can plan for ways to handle things better when you face these hurdles.

37. Plant seeds of kindness and good deeds often. Don’t expect anything in return.

38. Spend time with very young people as well as the very senior members of society. Look into their eyes and imagine and try to see the world through their eyes to help you tune your own perspective.

39. Read contrarian information that is not aligned with what you know or believe to see what it may have to offer about a given topic. Maybe you will strengthen your own beliefs or perhaps, you will change your mind about something.

40. Always look for ways to educate yourself on the job and in your own personal time. Take advantage of free courses and training subsidized by your employer or some government agency.

41. Be a Mentor to those younger than you or those with less experience. Freely give of your time and experience on a regular basis.

42. Seek mentors who can help you get to the next level of your personal or professional journey. Don’t try to do it all alone.

43. Find ways to have great experiences each year by stepping back from work and life routines. Change up your schedule for 1 week or a full month and explore a different place or culture.

44. Audit your inputs ranging from physical items to digital media and cut down all of these by 10%. Do another audit in 6 months and reduce everything by another 10%.

45. Make space in your closet, car, and life for expansion and growth but don’t immediately try to fill the void. Enjoy the empty space your created for a while. Be selective about what you put in each aspect of your life and make it intentional.

46. Do a little more than what is expected of you on a regular basis and you will stand out. Most people are not even doing what they committed to doing so anyone who regularly does a little more than what is required is the one others will be attracted to.

47. Remember you cannot please everyone so pick your audience and serve them to the best of your ability.

48. Becoming a parent is hard. It’s not supposed to be an easy job so respect the challenge and step up to do your best every day. That’s what children deserve from us.

49. Traditions and trends are important but shouldn’t become dogma or ‘policy’ in your life. Know the difference between what is required and what is handed down as a cultural practice.

50. You will never stop learning lessons in life so never imagine you are ‘done’ or have achieved a state of perfect wisdom. There’s always room to learn and refine your knowledge some more.

51. Expect to lose important people and precious things and give thanks each day that you still have them. This will prevent you from becoming ungrateful and complacent about what matters in life.

52. Life is Short so you might as well Live Awesome!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

7 Awesome Things I Learned From Pickleball

March 15, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

“There are those who play Pickleball and those who live Pickleball. They are not the same.” Ahsan Khan

I came to Pickleball out of curiosity and a love for challenging myself to learn something new.

A few clients mentioned they were playing the sport. One person mentioned how she and her husband were having so much fun, and the other said, "it saved my life!" He had recently retired and had gone through a difficult life situation.

So off I went to research the game and landed at the Richmond Hill Pickleball Club.

So far, here are 7 things I have learned, and you might too:

Overcoming Doubt: That I…me…could learn a new sport at this advanced age. Learning the scoring system and watching my feet at the kitchen line has added numerous neural pathways to my brain.

How To Make Friends and Dink People: I get to meet new people every week and share a laugh, words of encouragement, and a mutual desire to beat our opponents across the net. When called, my partner and I are ready to drink, smash, volley, and bang.

Discovering That I Can Be Present: When I play, time not only flies but I am totally thinking about my shot-making, what the score is, where my feet are, what dastardly trick my opponent is trying on me, and all my cares of the world seem to disappear.

That My Body Needs More Attention: To be honest, I initially thought this game for "older folk" is so easy, so non-physical, a walk in the park. First off, I have been schooled by plenty of 70-plus grandmothers and felt the aches for 2 days straight. So now I am stretching and doing weight training to fight the sarcopenia and get an edge. Hehe!

That I Get High On and Off The Court: Once I start playing, there is no time to think about anything other than getting that ball over the net and putting it away! This constant focus adds calming serotonin, and each successful smash or snappy backhand gives thrilling dopamine hits. I also drive home feeling so chill and on top of the hill.

How Not To Dwell On My Mistakes: Hitting out of bounds, missing a serve or dropping your third shot into your side of the net can really bug a person. Hey, I am no saint. I get mad. But I also find myself saying, "next shot Ahsan, dial it in," and other sweet nothings.

That Life Is Not A Rehearsal: In life, you must spend time doing things you love. You never know how long you will be here, so get your game of life going. Hopefully, you also feel that while Pickleball is not our whole life, it makes our life whole!

This list is a work in progress. We’re curious about what lessons you learned from your journey with Pickleball. Email back, and let us all learn together.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

The Future You is All You Need

March 8, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

Peter Drucker

I like the above quote and I’m always curious about what is going to happen. What will happen next in a given news story or world event? What is next for the economy or the climate change patterns? It’s hard to tell and no one really knows for sure. We can model certain events and do a bunch of calculations on supercomputers but we don’t know for sure just like we don’t know the weather beyond a couple of days in the future.

What we do know and have control over is how we plan to meet with the future and what attitude we will have about the way things turn out. We can develop a resilient mindset and flexible position on some possible ways things might unfold so we are not completely surprised. We can also realize that many things are not in our control and never were or will be. Our job is to navigate whatever the situation is with the best knowledge and wisdom we possess. It can be something beautiful and empowering for us all. Just think of yourself as capable, strong, and willing to become the kind of person you need to be whatever tomorrow brings. Be ready for change, growth, and kindness. That’s all you need.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

How To Enjoy Life and Coffee

March 1, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

“Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast – you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.”

Eddie Cantor

Are you truly enjoying life? How about that last cup of coffee you had? Is your life so “go-go” that you forget to enjoy the little things?

We are getting more hectic with our lives. We go from one thing to another; one appointment is made and on to another meeting. On top of that, distractions abound from social media, incoming calls and emails that never end.

So what can a person do?

Slowing down makes perfect sense, but it might not be practical. I'm sorry to break it to you, but our modern age might always be "go-go and hectic!" So the real solution is to change a straightforward thing.

That simple and singular idea is to prioritize enjoyment!

What do you enjoy when you are not on the clock or on the weekend when things slow down? Are you doing those things often enough?

What do you do where time flies, where you feel happy and relaxed and very present? Recall those feelings of calm, engagement, excitement or bliss, if you will. Is it when you play your favourite sport or go to dinner with friends? How about when you sit down with a cup of coffee and a good book? Or go for a hike in the forest on a cool spring morning?

So here is the plan to start enjoying your life:

Make a list of things that float your boat. Try to come up with at least ten things you can honestly say make you feel happy and alive. For example, if you love reading books and are not reading them, then you are not living life to the fullest, are you?

Next, develop the ability to enjoy the things on your list. Let's suppose you enjoy travelling to new places. Are you taking a bunch of pics with your phone, editing them and showing them to your friends when you come back? Oftentimes, you were there, and your camera was there, but you missed out on truly being there. We can all do better at being more conscious and tasting that cup of coffee. Was it hot, fresh and aromatic, or did you miss its flavour and warmth going down to your belly?

Developing the ability to enjoy things is all about being present, smelling the fragrance of a good meal while it's being prepared, and hearing the sounds in the busy bazaar, from the honks of scooters to the chatter of people sipping an espresso at the café. It's not about reading the menu and the description of your entrée but tasting what you ordered.

Finally, understand that your experience in life comes from the state of mind you develop. I'm not talking about a positive state of mind but rather a relaxed state of mind. When you have a relaxed state of mind, you become more observant. You can observe things and yourself with presence. I am sure this relaxed and self-observant state has happened to you many times.

It generally happens when people are on vacation. They are away from the regular grind and indeed present doing or experiencing mundane things like tasting the best coffee ever at the most typical coffee shop.

There is an underlying phenomenon going on here. It is this: your experience of life comes from only one place⎯thought in the moment!

Herein lies a hint at how to have the best cup of coffee ever each and every time you drink coffee and truly enjoy your life.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Be The Hero of Your Life!

February 22, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

“What would have become of Hercules do you think if there had been no lion, hydra, stag, or boar – and no savage criminals to rid the world of? What would he have done in the absence of such challenges? Obviously, he would have just rolled over in bed and gone back to sleep. So by snoring his life away in luxury and comfort he never would have developed into the mighty Hercules. And even if he had, what good would it have done him? What would have been the use of those arms, that physique, and that noble soul, without crises or conditions to stir into him action?”

Epictetus. Discourses

We all have certain capacities, resources, and challenges in life. Every one of us is constantly facing something that we need to address and sometimes it’s with nothing short of heroic nature that will do the job. For some on the front lines of a crisis, that heroism is called for on a daily basis. Regardless of when or where you are when that cry for help arrives at your ears, you need to respond. You must step up and be there for your family, friends, or community and metaphorically or literally ‘rescue’ them as only you can.

Being a hero is not about a cape or cartoonish muscles. It’s a mindset that includes courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. All of the best virtues of life are found in a true hero. So the obvious first step is to develop as many of these virtues in your life and keep refining them on a regular basis.

The next big part of heroism is to be comfortable with discomfort on occasion and not complain about it to anyone. Heroes in mythology or real life have to struggle to get to where they are and even maintain their status. This is part of the character of legendary people because they can put up with temporary setbacks, annoyances, and pain so they can accomplish their mission in life.

The third key point for your heroic transformation is to be aware of what’s happening around you and what’s coming up around the corner. Where are the opportunities where you can provide great value? Where are potential dangers and hurdles you should avoid along with helping in your circle, avoid so they can stay safe? Become an excellent observer, listener, and meditator on the various information and events you witness each day. Filter the noise and get to what the priority is so you can respond in the best way.

You don’t have to be a mythological demi-God or experience a radio-active insect bite to transform into a great hero in life. You just have to care about your role in life and follow the 3 step approach above with sincerity and discipline. To all the Awesome heroes and future legends in the making, I salute you!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

What's More Important, a Positive attitude Or Positive Thinking?

February 15, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Ahsan

There are days when everything is going great, and you feel wonderful. What is the key reason behind such amazing days?

It's easy to see why some days are challenging or even miserable, but what makes those awesome days happen when they do?

Most people would point out that when everything is good, I am good. That's a fair assessment. It certainly helps when you get an A on your assignment, get a bonus at work or see your child's face light up when you give them a present.

But then there are times when you get a B, don't get recognized for your efforts, or your spoiled kid says thanks and tosses the new toy onto a pile of other toys. I bet you don't always feel negative when that happens, do you? I bet, I bet!

Something is going on here. However, external happenings are not the source of our feelings.

If things that happen to us are not the root cause of feeling wonderful, then what is?

What about this? When I am good, everything is good.

In other words, your mental frame of mind has something to do with how you feel. That is where people often attribute having a positive attitude to more happiness and success.

Would you argue that having a positive attitude is not the most critical determinant of having wonderful days, even when things are not going to your liking?

It would be an interesting debate if you posed the question to some friends. So may I suggest you do it at your next get-together with friends.

However, I would like to challenge this very acceptable notion. I want to argue that having a positive attitude is helpful as a technique but not the root cause for having wonderful days, happiness in general or a successful life.

The actual generator of those awesome days is not a positive attitude but instead positive thinking.

Even if you say to yourself, “silver-lining” things like getting a B is good feedback, I will study better next time, or getting a bonus is not that important, or maybe my kid is just too tired to show how grateful he is, these so-called positive attitudes are actually your thinking about the situation.

You feel your thinking. What you feel comes from your thinking. You think all day. Everyone thinks. It's the thinking that makes you feel good or bad. Get aware of this phenomenon. Accept this as an indisputable truth, a law like the law of gravity. It only works one way. What you think, you feel.

If you are not feeling optimal, consider that as biofeedback and examine what you are thinking at that moment. Try to catch yourself in the moment. Have that lightbulb go on!

From this awareness (I think into my feelings), you can use "techniques" to shift your thinking.

Helpful techniques like developing a positive attitude by reading positive stories of people who face difficult situations, like Victor Frankl’s Man’s Search For Meaning. Or keeping a gratitude journal and writing all the little things you should be grateful for. Or trying something new for 30 days, like learning a new sport like Pickleball.

Negative thinking with a positive attitude won’t do it.

I rest my case. Positive thinking is more important than a positive mental attitude.

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C

Take A Step Forward Every Day

February 8, 2023 Shazad Ahmad

By Shazad

“Well-being is realized by small steps, but is truly no small thing.”

Zeno

Life can be challenging and it’s been especially so for so many people in the past few years. It seems like there are always more things to do than hours in a day and never enough money in the bank to pay for things. It can be downright overwhelming and I have been there so I can personally relate to all of these feelings.

What can we do about this? Is there any solution or tactic for making it through the day?

Yes, indeed! What has worked for me is the daily ritual of doing the necessary work first and crossing some things off my list one item at a time. Taking one step in each moment to move things a little forward each day. It all adds up and becomes a completed project over time.

The key thing is to determine what is most important and then the next most important, and so on. Find out what the steps to completion are for each task and then start from step 1. Keep moving forward with the steps every day until you are done. It’s important to determine what is optional or nice to do and put that aside for the moment. Focus your time and energy on just doing the important things and you will get the satisfaction of having achieved something every day. Make daily consistent effort your goal and not perfection.

In the end, just realize that you may never be truly “DONE” with everything so don’t stress over it. If you are taking care of yourself and your family while making meaningful progress each day, you are doing well. That’s good enough! Live Awesome!

Want more Awesome writing from us? Go to this link and order your copy of the Awesome Life book today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VPAK8C