circle of fifths

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[outsidetheark]

Last month, I met a blind man living in an Guatemalan charity with a fascinating story.  Please read Oscar’s story and consider recording a message of encouragement for him or sending in any audiobooks on CDs.  He dearly misses reading stories of travel and adventure, and I think some audiobooks would make his days more enjoyable.

In the end, this project is about human commonality and compassion.  Read the story.

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IMG_0062 (by Mac Kwan)

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Dear Meera, you're such a wonderful person and you're very inspiring. I wanted to ask you if you have any tips on how to gain confidence. You seem like a very confident person and I respect you a lot so I though you would be the right person to ask for advice. Thank you very much in advance.

I recently had a leadership coaching appointment, and my interviewer was astounded at my confidence and asked me where it came from. I couldn't provide him with an answer because I am not entirely sure. But, for starters:

This might sound silly, but I collect quotes. I have a small Moleskine notebook full of quotes from people I respect and admire, all of whom have tremendous amounts of confidence. Take note of people who seem to be self-assured and try to adopt some of their traits and values in your own life.

Reward yourself for the small victories. Set manageable, realistic goals for yourself, and when you succeed, treat yourself with something you enjoy. The seemingly little things add up and make a huge difference, and these wins will give you the confidence needed to set bigger goals. Success and failure are broad terms, so be specific in their definitions and set them in a way that allow you to accomplish your goals to the fullest extent.

If I feel hesitant, I ask myself, "What's the worst that could happen?" Often, the "worst case scenario" is not that bad, nor is it likely to occur. If you don't try, then you have completely limited yourself from succeeding.

I cannot stress this enough: do not compare yourself to other people. Focus on improving yourself and mark your individual growth to retain confidence and happiness. Surround yourself with people who also provide positive energy.

Don't get discouraged and stay optimistic! Confidence is not something that can be developed overnight, but Eleanor Roosevelt said it best: "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." We all have our down days, but how we feel is ultimately up to us.

I hope this was helpful! I am flattered you asked. Have a good day :)

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(by Shield of illusions)

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Anderson Cooper saving a child from aggressive looters in Haiti.

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The world would be a better place if some people performed 4'33" forever.

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slumbering beast (by ©DocTony Photography)

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23 april (by peixes loucos)

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Unexpected intrusions of beauty. That is what life is.

Saul Bellow, Herzog

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∞ (by spanish harlem mona lisa)

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(by Wu-nien)

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Prisms so effortlessly allow light to pass through them to create something even more beautiful, an array of vibrant colors. I wonder if I am capable of accomplishing something like that.

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notes to self

don't let the small things bring you down

show everyone kindness

take full advantage of short bursts of inspiration

enjoy the sunshine

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lovely (by Rona Keller)

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1945 Newspaper (by Amanda Mae Bird)