{"id":1454,"date":"2018-03-13T11:15:55","date_gmt":"2018-03-13T11:15:55","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/iigl-wp\/?page_id=1454"},"modified":"2024-08-31T21:48:22","modified_gmt":"2024-08-31T21:48:22","slug":"ndefo-chikanso-patricia-assessments","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/ndefo-chikanso-patricia-assessments\/","title":{"rendered":"Ndefo Chikanso Patricia – Assessments"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As A Man Thinketh<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/p>\n

The main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book is ”THE POWER OF THOUGHT”<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven idea which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life<\/span><\/p>\n

The book ”as a man thinketh”, I would say is a book that really challenged me while I was reading, some ideas struck my head, these ideas are<\/span><\/p>\n

a. Man is made or unmade by himself -This idea whenever I read it; keeps telling me that I decide for my self what I with to do with my self. I am the chief pilot of my own plane and I would fly wherever I want to regardless of so many limiting factors. I also got to understand that what I do and say daily is a product of my thought .The knowledge of this made me to always believe in my self and develop myself. I am determined to read good books that will make me stand out among my equals even when it seems none of my siblings and parent value books as much as I do. I have resolved to make myself a voracious reader that will help influence positive thought in me.<\/span><\/p>\n

b. Men are anxious to improve their circumstances but are unwilling to improve them selves; therefore remain bound -while I was reading the book, and come across this point, I quickly wrote down ”true talk” I nodded my head in contentment .most often, we (humans) are not willing to do something or sacrifice something to achieve what we want to achieve. I remember when I really wanted to loose weight but I could not help my self by not avoiding eating varieties of food. In a sense, one cannot cheat nature, when things are not done the right and honest way, the best result should not be expected. Now I have learnt that to improve my circumstances, I must improve my self, I have grown to appreciate self discipline and gratification such that now, I now watch what goes into my mouth so as to keep the right shape in check.<\/span><\/p>\n

c. Good thought and actions can never produce bad result, bad thought and actions can never produce good result-you don’t over stretch the obvious. It is widely understood that when a farmer sows maize, he will harvest maize. Pure thought produces pure result, while impure thought produces bad result. I often think of myself as one who will talk and influence people. so I have resolved in what ever capacity I can to teach and inspire people with my gift in talking I am currently teaching in a school and I don’t invitations to talk to young people on issues that will help them in life<\/span><\/p>\n

d. Out of defiled mind proceed a defiled life and a corrupt body-what you always have in mind to do go along way to exhibit what you actually do in reality. A person who always think of sex! Sex! Sex! Should not be surprised if he turns out to become a rapist. But one who has been visualizing and imagining her wedding night where she will be presenting her virginity as a wedding gift to her husband will work towards been chaste till that day. I believe this imagination is what has been keeping me chaste too. I agree with a saying by Martins Buxbaum that goes with this -some people, no matter how old they get they never lose their beauty, they merely move it from their faces into their hearts.<\/span><\/p>\n

e. The will to do springs from the knowledge that we can do -I believe in the saying -were there is a will, there is a way. We can create anything we can imagine. The first tool to failure is self discouragement. A soldier who goes to battle with a double mind has killed himself psychologically and is more likely not to make it alive .This short story of mine demonstrate this point-I remember sending an application to work as a teacher in a school (when I considered a very big school) I had doubt and fear that I will not be given that appointment because I thought I was not qualified and capable enough to work in the school and expectedly, I was not called up for an interview. But the case was different when I was invited by somebody to give a talk on true love, cheating and long term relationship in a valentine program organized for youth. Even though I have not spoken on love anywhere before and the persons I was to speak to were far older than me and more experienced than I was, I made up my mind to give my best and of course worked towards it. I killed every fear and doubt in me and after speaking in the program, every one confirmed it was a wonderful one.<\/span><\/p>\n

f. He who would accomplish little need sacrifice little, he who would accomplish much must sacrifice much ,he who would attain highly must sacrifice greatly -I have also grown to understand that people who have really made it in life and are considered genius by mediocres are people who did not do what everyone was dong and did not give way to laxity and mediocrity. Such persons as first class student in school have really sacrificed their sleep time, play time, clubbing and gisting time, fashion style and fun for their academy even when they know they have nothing to lose by partaking in all these activities. Sacrifice goes with the zeal and determination to achieve ones desire. A doctor friend of mine who is also a renowned motivational speaker was fund of saying he actually did sacrifice his food and pocket money while he was in medical school to buy books that were quiet expensive . Now he has grown to become what he wanted to become. If I must be great, I must learn to live a sacrificial life and do away with frivolities.<\/span><\/p>\n

g.The more tranquil a man becomes, the greater his success, influence, his power for good -Genuine wisdom is usually conspicuous through modesty and silence. A quiet and peaceful mind does not have the time to think of vengeance or wrong to do to someone but is everly seeking for new opportunities to demonstrate his peacefulness. Such a person is not only influential but his successful in his dealings. A tranquil man is also tolerant and doesn’t exaggerate a wrong doing .Tranquility really helped me in school to curtail my anger whenever I was wronged or annoyed by my room mates.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/p>\n

The ideas and lessons I learnt from the book \u201cas a man thinketh\u201d will no doubt sharpen my mind and affect the way I think. I will henceforth not give way to peoples’ opinion in my life knowing fully well that I \u201cmake\u201d my self. I will always try to think and do the right regardless of what people say about me ,I will always be my self, I will improve my self and in turn my circumstances I have now resolved not to always short-circuit things but to learn to endure pain, suffering and shame, this I will achieve by been focused, dedicated and discipline, so if I must lose weight I must be disciplined enough to eat right and exercise ,if I must be voracious reader, I should do away with frivolities and do more of reading with my time . Also, knowing that good thought and action produces good result, I would be conscious of what I think daily. I want to live a decent and modest life, so my thought will be of a modest one. If I must keep chaste till marriage I must continue to think chastity, this will be demonstrated in the kind of cloth I wear, the kind of places I go and the kind of words I profess from my mouth. My will power is henceforth developed now. I have coined out this to help me in life \u201cI can do it, and I will do it\u201d. I will not let any discouragement of any sort weigh me down. I will also live a life of sacrifice. If I must be an outstanding teacher and a ren owned multinational speaker then more of my time will be devoted to reading books. Lastly, a tranquil life I will emulate whenever I am angry and when I have the temptation to do something crazy I would remember that I am calm and peaceful and overcome such temptation.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statement which the author made that particular got your attention? If so, please quote them and comments as to why there were important to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

The author James Allen made careful use of words and intelligently made up the sentences, quotes and comments in the book. Some of the statements that really got my attention are:<\/span><\/p>\n

v The aphorism \u201cas a man thinketh in his heart, so is he\u201d -I am the product of my thought, I act on what I have thought and will do something I have thought i will do .So if my thought is me ,then this book has taught me to think big , act big and grow big and that I will do.<\/span><\/p>\n

v Man is the master of thought, the molder of character, and the maker and sharper of condition, environment and destiny-this statement really struck a note in my head. If I am the molder of my character, the sharper of my condition and destiny, I ask my self -what stops me from molding an admirable character and sharpening a beautiful destiny? The answer I believe is me, myself and I. An understanding of this will put in the right track in life. I should always blame myself when things go wrong and seek to learn from my mistakes.<\/span><\/p>\n

v A man only begins to be a man when he ceases to whine and revile and commence to search for the hidden justice who regulates his life-this comment is very important to me because I learn from it not to dwell on my weaknesses but capitalize on my strength. My background will not put my back to the ground, I will not be limited by any situation, I have got a potential and the talent to make exploit and affect life positively and that I will do my living an exemplary life<\/span><\/p>\n

v You will become as small as your controlling desire as great as your dominant aspiration -Another way of saying think big, grow big. Think small, achieve small. This comment will make me think and achieve great things in life<\/span><\/p>\n

5. is there any thing in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so why?<\/span><\/p>\n

I read the book carefully, meditating on its content and relating it to my life. So I don’t think there was any thing I did not understand. I clearly understood every word and sentence.<\/span><\/p>\n

6.Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

The book encourages me to develop a deeper understanding of the principles of as a man thinketh and begin my week with the wisdom of James Allen. I keyed to this advice and every week, I memorize a statement from the book that will help to guide me .this exercise was very helpful as every statement I memorized really helped me curtail my excesses.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there any thing you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous question? If so? Please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ans- There was nothing I read in the book that I would like to comment separately. All that I needed to say or comment have been discussed in the previous questions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following question on a scale from 1-10. Ten is good and one is poor<\/span><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the content? 8<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 7<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jonathan Livingston Seagull<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book<\/span><\/p>\n

The main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book is the place of determination in achieving what u want to achieve in the midst of discouragement.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. use personal examples from your own life<\/span><\/p>\n

The ideas that were personally most important to me are these:<\/span><\/p>\n

v Jonathan Seagull discovered that boredom and fear and anger are the reasons that a gull’s life is so short and with these gone from his thought, he lived a long fine life indeed-When one harbors anger, he or she is not relaxed to think of something pleasant to do .His or her thought is directed towards doing something crazy and causing problems. Fear is one factor that discourages one from taking a risk. That is the more reason why some persons will prefer to remain where they are and not aim higher, the fear of something bad happening to them often discourages them from breaking through and making exploits. A driver who is used to driving for 5 hours daily will refuse to drive for 10 hours when asked to. This is due to fear. Life itself is a risk and a man who has not found anything to die for is not fit to live. If one can overcome fear, he or she can conquer self. As for boredom, Emma Etuk- a historian and a writer, puts it this way-Work may not kill a man but boredom readily will\u2026I learnt to curtail my anger and it has really helped me in many ways-I live peacefully with my siblings and friends and make others want to emulate me .I also conquered fear and resolved to speak out when need be regardless of what people may say.<\/span><\/p>\n

v Learn nothing; and the next world is the same as this one, all the same limitations and lead weights to overcome-Life is in phases and men are in sizes. When we are done with the first phase, we move to the next. Little wonder, school curriculum is planned in such a way that the higher you go, the harder it becomes. When you are done with a class, written your exams and passed, then you are qualified to be promoted to the next higher class. When we don’t do things we ware supposed to do now, we are likely to face them later. In a sense, we cannot run away from our responsibilities\u2026 We ought to finish up a stage before we move to the next stage.<\/span><\/p>\n

v The gulls who scorn perfection for the sake of travel go nowhere, slowly. Those who put aside travel for the sake of perfection go anywhere instantly-I understood from this statement that when one is fully aware of the ideal state of things but deliberately did not work to get the best, such a person is doomed for mediocrity. I will use myself to explain this point-when I prepare for an exam and write it very well, I will expect a grade A but when I just read to write an exam just for the sake of writing and barely pass and often expect a C grade, my expectations tend not to disappoint.<\/span><\/p>\n

v ‘To fly as fast as thought to anywhere, you must begin by knowing that you have already arrived’-Most often, when we see the end of a project before we begin them, we are likely to succeed in that project than when we just reluctantly carry out the project. A pilot who sees himself arriving at his destination even before the plane takes off, does not harbor fear and doubt in his mind. The determination, the will, the commitment and the consciousness to finish up something, often shows in the way we start. When I have to speak to an audience I visualize already doing it well, that lives in my subconscious such as it drives away any doubt and stage freight.<\/span><\/p>\n

v It always works when you know what you are doing -when I read this, I quickly remembered the word of Don marquis in the book failing forward by john c. Maxwell he perceived \u201c ours is a world where people don’t know what they want and are willing to go through hell to get it\u201d, you cant be following the crowed blindly and expect to achieve more than hey do . when you know what you want and you go for it, it will definitely turn out a success . this is in line with career aspiration of individuals, must person who aspire to be something in life because of fame and wealth acquisition end up not living happily but people who choose career because of the passion they have for it and not for the money, know exactly what they what to do. I choose my career as a teacher because I have a passion for teaching.<\/span><\/p>\n

v The gull sees farthest who flies highest -this is another way to say-aim for the top and you will be the bes. When one dreas big, he achieve big things . takng an extra mile gives one an extra edge over other. I always want to look higher above what others are looking , want to add an extra knowledge , learn an extra thing..<\/span><\/p>\n

a seagull is an unlimited idea of freedom, an image of the great gull and your own body, from wingtip to wingtip is nothing more thought its self- thought are really beings and they make you. God has endowed us with intelligence and freedom of thought. We can think anything both good and bad and whatever we condition are mind to do is what it does. I always try to think the right and act the right way<\/span><\/p>\n

4. how will this ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/p>\n

Ans the ideas or lessons I learnt from this book will help me to be determined,<\/span><\/p>\n

Courageous and thoughtful. I learnt not to accept the status quo or continue to dwell on limitations but to be principled, determined and have a strong willpower. I will live to develop my self in whatever way I can, will continue to aim and dream higher.<\/span><\/p>\n

I was born into a culture where the people do not appreciate girl child education or even education of any gender but I would never allow that discourage me. I will continue to encourage myself and improve academically<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the statement that got my attention is that our purpose for living is to find a perfection and show it forth- God as not given us a talent to hide it but to use it to affect lives positively. I believe in the saying that a life unexamined is not worth living.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another statement which also got my attention is ‘keep working on love’. Love conquers all things, it will continue to remind you of the golden rule (do to others what you will want them to do to you). if I have love in me, I will always love God and respect humanity.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. is there any thing in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so why?<\/span><\/p>\n

the book Jonathan Livingstone seagull is one that is suspense- filled and very dramatic. I took my time to read carefully in between the lines and imagine the drama. so I would say I did understood all that I read.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

after reading the book, I noticed the book did not include exercises for the reader to complete.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there any thing you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous question? If so? Please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

there was noting I read in the book that I would like to comment separately. All that I needed to say or comment have been discussed in the previous questions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following question on a scale from 1-10. Ten is good and one is poor<\/span><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 7<\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the content? 8<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 6<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 7<\/span><\/p>\n

Keys to Success<\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/p>\n

The main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book is the principles of personal achievement and the strategies employed in achieving success.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List the seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/p>\n

a. The value of the wealth that comes with success is that it carries with it the lessons you have learned in acquiring it<\/span><\/p>\n

There is no two ways about this; if one is going to achieve success, he or she must be willing to put an extra ordinary effort. Nature itself looks with disfavor on any attempt to obtain something for nothing. No wonder \u2018LUCK\u2019 is defined as when preparation meets opportunity. Just like the blacksmith heats the metal to before it is used to make something, someone who wants to be successful must be willing to pass through the struggles of this life to be very productive. People are like rubber bands, they are most valuable when they are stretched. The idea is really of importance to me because I have grown to appreciate struggles and the pains of life. I have seen them as lessons that will help to make a better me.<\/span><\/p>\n

b. Be sincere first of all with yourself and you will steadily grow in self reliance.<\/span><\/p>\n

I believe that the highest form of deceit is self deceit. It is only proper and wise that we tell ourselves the truth. When I was in the university, I made up my mind not to involve myself in school dating because I know that will probably not lead to marriage. I was so determined to keep to my decision even in the face of opposite sex disturbances. My decision did help me a lot because I finished up my study, enjoyed my stay in school without struggling with any emotional distractions as regards issues in relationships. The idea is this \u2013 I did tell myself the truth knowing full well that school relationship would not help me in my academics and of course, I grew in self reliance.<\/span><\/p>\n

c. A well developed sense of humor aids you in becoming flexible and adaptable to the varying circumstances of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

As I read about a keen sense of humor in the book, I quickly remembered the saying by Cosmic Pianist Victor Borge which goes thus \u201cLaughter is the closest distance between two people.\u201d I have often found that to be true because I am naturally attracted to funny people. Most of my friends are those who do not really take life very seriously and often create humor out of what seems to be very challenging and difficult. People with a good sense of humor create a positive atmosphere even when times are tough and this increases their chances of making friends. A good sense of humor is one quality I do really love and will like to see in my future husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

d. Win without boasting, lose without squealing and others will soon respect you.<\/span><\/p>\n

Competitions often interest us especially when we trust ourselves to come out the best. In as much as we work so hard and expect to be the best in any competition, we should not get ourselves angry or act unreasonable when the otherwise happens. After all, every competitor often opts for the best place.<\/span><\/p>\n

This idea has really helped me to accept defeat in a good state of mind. I remember when my school participated in the Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) competition. It happened that my school did not make it to the finals of the competition but another school (from the same state with us) made it to the finals and emerged as the winners of the competition. We were not sad from the outcome of the event but rejoiced so well with the winners such that we all gladly went back and we were so proud of our closest SIFE team\u2019s accomplishment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Similarly, I remember participating in a Bible quiz competition in my church (a competition I prepared so well for and anticipated to come out as the winner), but as it were, we i.e. myself and the other representative of my group in church came second in the quiz competition. I honestly would not say I did not feel bad about coming second, it was quite painful but I did not allow that weigh me down but rather took my time to congratulate the winners and I did promise to give them all the support they need to prepare for the second round of the competition. This is the spirit of sportsmanship .It helps you to gain self respect and the respect of others.<\/span><\/p>\n

e. Money is nice, but it certainly will not be the only thing that makes you successful<\/span><\/p>\n

or allows you to gain success.<\/span><\/p>\n

I do agree that people will work harder for personal recognition and a word of commendation where it is deserved than they will for money alone. I used to tell people that if you work for money rather than for passion, while the former makes you frown at the job, the latter keeps you at the job. Telling someone a \u2018thank you\u2019 or a \u2018well done\u2019 is very motivating rather than just issuing the person money.<\/span><\/p>\n

I started speaking to people in events, seminars and workshops even as a young teenager and in all of these places I go to speak, I do not expect money for a job well done rather a word of thank you is enough to keep me going. I also worked in a school where in just two weeks of my resumption of duty, I made plans to revive the non existing press club and of course I revived it. The proprietor of the school was so happy with me and he often commended me for a job well done. Those words of commendation made me so happy, flattered and fulfilled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Money alone will not make me successful. Other things count \u2013 A loving family, good and caring friends self consolation and a happy state of mind. I remember being asked a question \u2013 If money is not a factor, what would you spend your time doing? This really is a food for thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

f. Too much food, drink and other outside influences such as drugs, – which are bad for your body can shorten your life, sap your energy and distract you from the work at hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

The old saying \u201cToo much of everything is bad\u201d will continue to remind us to do things in moderation. Not doing things in moderation have so many effects. For example, eating excessively might cause one to be overweight. Needless to say, it goes a long way to tell of a person\u2019s lack of willpower and discipline which has an effect on a person\u2019s lifestyle.<\/span><\/p>\n

A French scientist correctly said and I quote \u201cyou are what you eat.\u201d Humans should live to eat not eat to live. We must learn not to give our body everything it desires but to discipline our body. One of such ways is by fasting. Fasting as a spiritual exercise has really helped me to grow in my spiritual life, build my willpower and also give me a sense of responsibility, good health and determination.<\/span><\/p>\n

g. It is better to act on a plan that is still weak than to delay acting at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement reminds me of what John Henry Cardinal Newman said, \u201cNothing would get done at all if a man waited until he could do something so well that no one could find fault with it.\u201d The truth is that our imperfect nature as humans would not allow us do or carry out work to agree with Norman Cousins who said, \u201cTo talk about the need for perfection in man is to talk about the need for another species.\u201d Having this in mind, I have grown to fight procrastination which keeps deceiving us to wait for a better day and right time to start any work. You never know how much you can do until you start doing. I know I am good at writing and putting up information together so while I was in school and even when I was serving my nation as a corporate member, I did not wait for a perfect time to do what I know how to do. I had plans on ground so I worked on them. This of course helped to add spice to events organized in my school fellowship and corpers fellowship.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/p>\n

The ideas that were personally most important to me in the book will no doubt go a long way in helping me be a better person and in turn affect lives positively. I learnt to always look beyond trials, challenges and failures. I will not dwell on the sad moments of life but continue to use the lessons encountered in the course of my quest for success to make a better tomorrow. I will also do well to encourage people who are close to me in terms of despair and let them know that those periods are only for a short time and carry with them lots or appreciable lessons for a better tomorrow. This will translate to a very good sense of humor as life will be taken so easy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sincerity of purpose is one other thing I would key into since the obvious cannot be stretched. Truth can never be hidden so I would continue to say the truth no matter how unpleasing to the ears it seems. I would not daydream and deceive myself. My lifestyle will be one that is molded by honesty so that others will learn from me to stand by the truth.<\/span><\/p>\n

I would also demonstrate the spirit of sportsmanship by not being boastful of any achievement. I will not let money rule me or affect my lifestyle but I will always go the extra mile to be proactive in what I do as to see how I can help people in the little way I can. I will also live a life of moderation \u2013 eat good food, sleep and rest very well and exercise for a good health. Lastly, I am going to \u2018erase the word Procrastination from my dictionary\u2019, and begin to act fast as soon as an idea springs up. This will help me develop willpower and in turn build trust and accountability in people.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe law of compensation ensures that everything you do will bring you some sort of result of the same kind .\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Good will always pay you back no matter how long it takes. So in everything I do, I should always remember to do it well because time will surely pay me back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell me how you use your time and money and I will tell you where and what you will be ten years from now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest. With the knowledge of this statement in mind, I will discipline myself to spend my time and money on resourceful things like buying and reading good books and also being at the right places.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe more intolerant you are, the more you close yourself to the diversity of the world and to the power of the spiritual side of the mind ,which can flourish only when it is ready to accept new ideas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement particularly got my attention because intolerance is a virtue I can boast of. It has really helped me to avoid troubles and stay in peace with people. Tolerance often accompanies patience and humility. A tolerant person does not only learn quickly from life\u2019s lessons but is opened to wonderful opportunities in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe more you learn to be aware of and in control of your facial expressions, the better you will be able to interpret the expressions of others.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Any good sales person will tell you the importance of smiling to welcome customers. I am mostly attracted to children who often smiles, so I feel an inviting facial expressions will make one keep friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFear of criticism is a common fear. If you let it, it will sap your initiative and imagination. But for every step you take away from it, it will take two steps away from you, once you begin your journey, it will grow easier by the day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

From this statement, I understand that the fear of criticism is more or less natural but I have to fight it. The truth is that people will always talk about you no matter what you do. I have also grown to understand that I cannot please everyone. If my decisions and actions hurt some persons, it implies I am doing it right. So instead of being afraid of criticism, I would rather do it well and right.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/p>\n

I took my time to read the book and I think I did understand every sentence in the book. Written in very simple English, the book offers readers an explanation and life experiences on success tips. It was all clearly understood.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

The book contained a detailed evaluation for the reader. They are basically concise summaries of the steps to making each principle in the book a part of my life. I did complete all of the exercises. They were boldly written down in my study book. The commitments I made in the evaluation were very helpful to me. Any time I go back to read them, they give me strength and a good sense of responsibility. The master mind alliance I created for myself include my friends \u2013 Esther , Sunday and I. The commitments I made helped me to build a positive mental attitude as I continue to remember the golden rule \u2013 Do to others as you would have them do unto you.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

I want to use this opportunity to say that I really love the book I read, I am now much more responsible, and enthusiastic about living a purposeful life. There is nothing else I would like to comment separately. All I needed to say have being discussed in the previous questions and answers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

PsychoCybernetics<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/p>\n

Having read through the book, \u201cThe new Psychocybernetics,\u201d I do agree with the author that this is simply the essence of the book The accurate, calm and ultimately automatic separation of fact from fiction, fact from opinion, actual circumstance from magnified obstacle so that our actions and reactions are solidly based on truth, not our own or others\u2019 opinions.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List the seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life<\/span><\/p>\n

The book was an eye opener on how to get right with my actions and consciously direct my thoughts. A lot of ideas were personally of importance to me; some of these ideas that really struck me hard are outlined and explained below:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. To really live, that is to find life reasonably satisfying, you must have an adequate and realistic self-image that you can live with.<\/span><\/p>\n

This idea has made me realize myself, have a wholesome self-esteem, have a firm belief and trust in my abilities, be proud of myself and to actively express my creativity fully convinced I owe no one an explanation for being me. I have learnt not to compare myself with others as this is enough reason to be sad, hatred for oneself and to the extreme, depression. I am me, I am Unique; there is no other like me in the whole world, I feel appreciated as I know no one in the world can be like me. I remember vividly when I was much younger, I was introduced to a teenagers club by my classmate and on this Friday, when we went there, I looked at every one and a feeling of inferiority dawned on me, I felt I will not be able to measure up to others. I just stayed till the end of the program (wasn\u2019t actively participating). When I got home, I took a close look at myself in the mirror and whispered \u201cwhy am I not as beautiful as beauty?\u201d Beauty was a girl I met in the club. The good news is that that kind of thought didn\u2019t prevail for long because I grew up to appreciate myself better as well as appreciate others.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Help build on my strengths and have a realistic self-image of my self<\/span><\/p>\n

Mental practice is as powerful as actual practice<\/span><\/p>\n

This idea really struck me because i have felt it happen to me times without number, I got to fully understand after reading the book that our nervous system cannot tell the difference between an imagined experience and a \u201creal\u201d one. Our nervous system reacts appropriately to what we think or imagine to be true. Then I said to myself, \u201cHow powerful our thoughts are!\u201d My life is to a large extent the product of what I think and how I react to situations. Most often, I find myself thinking about an ugly or painful situation which is not real and I can\u2019t control the tears that flows along with the thoughts, how do I explain to a concerned fellow that I am just thinking of what might happen to me ( which might not even happen) and it\u2019s causing me to cry. This then explains the reason depressed people go to the extent of committing suicide; chances are that they have harbored negative imaginations so long in their minds. Our thoughts i.e. mental practice is very powerful. Some months ago, I was called by my superior at my place of work in the evening after I have gone back home that she wants me to be the mc of an occasion that was to held in the morning of the next day, I was shocked at first and did not feel in was the best person to do that job judging from the fact that some other colleagues of mine have been doing it well and I have never been called on to anchor an occasion of that magnitude, after much persuasion, I agreed and made up my mind to do it. The truth is, I did not concentrate at anything again, I kept on rehearsing in my head what I was going to say and how to add humor to it and at last I did it well and was commended. Mental practice played a big role in this success story as I have learnt to direct my thoughts positively.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. The unhappiest of mortals are those who insist on reliving the past, over and over in their imagination, continually criticizing themselves for past mistakes, continually condemning themselves for past sins.<\/span><\/p>\n

The past have a way of putting us down if we allow it, oftentimes the thought of what I should have done right, what I should have said right, where I should have been to and the likes keep popping in our head and these thoughts, if allowed makes one sad and moody. I have learnt that holding something in my mind as a subject of contemplation poisons my spirit and makes happiness impossible. So instead of resentment I translate the thought to lessons learnt in the past and laugh about it. I had a cause to often get angry with myself for not reacting harshly after being insulted and verbally abused by a close friend but now I just share the interesting story with friends and we joke and laugh about it. There is always a lesson to learn from events in the past that will help us forge ahead. Whenever the thoughts of the wrong things I have done in the past hunts me and I feel a tinge of guilt, I simply say, \u201cI have forgiven me\u201d and I move ahead. I believe that mindset will help me pull away from the shackles of past mistakes.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Life is a series of problems. If you are to be happy at all, you must be happy \u2013 period! Not happy \u201cbecause of .\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This is about the sweetest statement in the book because it points directly to the reader. If I tie my happiness to a thing, a person or a situation then my happiness is not guaranteed. The fact is, every situation is what you make of it, people have tendency to annoy, irritate and complicate issues and something I desire might get to me late or not at all. Life comes with challenging situations that is enough to put me down but the onus is on me to make the best of every situation. I totally agree with Abraham Lincoln that most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. I have resolved to be happy no matter the situation, give myself a treat, learn not to take things personally and not to worry about situations I cannot help.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. The person who is excessively careful, trying to match some \u2018perfect\u2019 standard or ideal rarely succeeds<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying, too much of everything is bad. I have learned that when we become too consciously concerned about what others think ,when we become too careful to consciously try to please other people, when we become too sensitive to the real or fancied disapproval of other people then we have excessive negative feedback, inhibition and poor performance. Simply put, I should never consciously try to make a good impression on people. My real self should be felt at every point in time because the truth is; people appreciate you better when they know you are not faking things up or trying to please. I couldn\u2019t help but remember the story a colleague of mine shared with me as I was reading this part of the book. He said the first time he visited his fianc\u00e9e, she served him a plate of soup and pounded yam but he couldn\u2019t eat the food because of the meat (the lady wanted to impress him by putting plenty meat in the soup), did I mention that my colleague is a human anatomist and is irritated by flesh as a result of constant dissection of human cadaver. Now, she consciously tried to make a good impression of herself which was not appreciated. I lost interest in a conversation with a young man at a time when I realized he wanted to impress me with big vocabulary and supposedly Queen\u2019s English.\u201d I have learned not to be so worried about what people think of me or say about me because if I do, I will have no motivation to explore.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Develop a genuine appreciation for people by realizing the truth about them; they are children of God, unique personalities, creative beings.<\/span><\/p>\n

How beautiful the old saying \u201cvariety is the spice of life.\u201d The world accommodates people of differing opinions, species of different kinds of land and water animals and plants as well. It is only proper to recognize and appreciate the unique personality in every one. I have learnt to think of the other person\u2019s feelings, viewpoints, desires and needs and this goes with a deep sense of humility. A humble person will not look down on others or consider him\/her self more important to the other person. A humble person will empathize and be more charitable. This will in turn make for a cordial relationship with everyone. Having this in mind, I have resolved to appreciate the unique personality in everyone. I remember being cautioned by a friend not to be comfortable at collecting the numbers of every low class person as he puts it but I know for certain that there is something to learn from every one we meet in life and my friendliness with people have helped me add to what I already know.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. \u201cFaith, courage, interest, optimism, looking forward bring us new life and more life; Futility, pessimism, frustration, living in the past are not only characteristics of old age, they contribute to it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement struck me so well that I had to share it on my wall on Facebook where I received a lot of likes and comments. I totally agree that we are as old as we think. If I live my life with deep sense of optimism and faith that things are going to get nothing but better, I an assured of a beautiful life, but if I continuously get frustrated over challenges and often regret my actions and inactions in the past, I will live a frustrated life and nothing more contributes to old age than what we do ourselves. I have seen a lot of people who don\u2019t look like their ages; they have decided that come what may, they are not giving chance to circumstances however discouraging they might be. I have resolved that I will possess both inner and outward beauty, circumstances will not detect my mood, I will pick up interest in eating right, exercising regularly and reading good books that will keep me in high spirit and with a deep sense of optimism I will not only add new life but beautiful life.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your personal life in helping you create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying that the ideas and lessons learned in the book will help me become a better person who will translate to improving my life and positively affecting everyone around me as it is said \u2013 One idea can change the world. I will like to itemize the lessons I have learnt and how they can be of help to me in a practical way as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

I will build a good self-esteem and continuously say to be self \u2013 I am unique, I have a beautiful personality, no one in the whole world is like me- I will continue to appreciate myself for who I am and not allow comparison with others weigh me down<\/span><\/p>\n

I will practice a positive aggressive attitude towards threats and problems; I will see myself in my imagination taking positive intelligent action towards solving a problem or reaching a goal. I will also react to threats by meeting them, dealing with them, grappling with them in an aggressive and intelligent manner<\/span><\/p>\n

I will get myself a goal worth working for that will keep me looking forward to the future<\/span><\/p>\n

I will love to always say this to myself. I am the kind of person who effectively plans the day ahead, sets goals, and accomplishes them, listens carefully, then communicates confidently and persuasively, take the initiative in solving problems and suggestion ideas, stays calm under pressure, prefers fresh fruit and other healthy foods to \u201cjunk food.\u201d This way , I am kept abreast with my resolutions.<\/span><\/p>\n

I will always keep my thoughts young in heart by being optimistic, self-motivated, forward looking and having an undoubting faith in God. I will appreciate people for their unique personalities; never look down on anyone and prepare my mind to learn from anyone I meet regardless of class, educational qualification or financial status. I should never consciously try to make a good impression on people. My real self should be felt at every point in time because the truth is; \u201cPeople appreciate you better when they know you are not faking things up or trying to please.\u201d I will not tie my happiness to a thing, person or events around me, I will simply be happy because God has created me unique and have put a seed of greatness in me. I will not allow events or memories of the past to weigh me down, I will be forward looking and always tell myself, \u201ctomorrow will be better than today and it can only get better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing splendid has ever been achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside them was superior to circumstance.<\/span><\/p>\n

I learned from this quote that my success in life is not determined by my background, environment or human factor, it is simply a matter of a convinced and determined mindset.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c Imagination rules the world.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The new Psychocybernetics has taught me not to joke with my imagination, whatever my mind can diligently conceive and work upon, I can achieve<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDetermine that the thing can and shall be done, and then we shall find the way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Determination is a very strong force that can\u2019t easily be quenched; it is so powerful that it can push its way through challenges, disbelief and glaring excuses.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can always correct a poor decision, but if you do nothing, you can never get the time back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Humans have tendency to make mistakes and the earlier we realized that we are not immune to error, the better for us. Doing nothing in a bad situation shows complacency, indifference and laxity which do not pave way for success.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNever tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This quote charged me to believe in people and not be quick to judge them by their facial appearances. When people can see that you trust in their abilities, they will keep up with the good work and try as much as possible to surprise you with clever and inventive ways.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappiness \u2013 A state of the mind of which our thinking is pleasant a good share of the time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Now I recall a statement earlier explained in this write-up which states; \u201cLife is a series of problems. If you are to be happy at all, you must be happy- period! Not happy because of. Happiness is simply a function of having pleasant thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe greatest mistake a man can make is to be afraid of making one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It is better to try a thing and fail than not to have tried at all. With the full knowledge that we are not our mistakes, it will help us plunge into new endeavors and make a difference in our lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWorry affects the circulation, the heart, the glands, the whole nervous system and profoundly affects health.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With the knowledge of the disastrousness of worry, I will not allow myself to be disturbed by it but will consciously replace worry with pleasant positive thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is easier to envision making dollars if you\u2019ve made pennies, easier to envision making thousands if you\u2019ve made hundreds.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Simply put, smaller success makes for bigger success. Life has taught me this from my little achievements ranging from phone games to making money.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/p>\n

Having read through the book, \u201cThe new PsychoCybernetics,\u201d I want to clearly say here that the statements were clearly understood. I want to use this medium to commend the writer for the usage of simple words, logical illustrations and helpful quotes. My only reservation is that the author was fond of associating most of his explanations with golf game or golfers, of which I believe most readers, will not fully be in the picture.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

Yes, the book contained a lot of mental training exercises and prescriptions. They were very helpful and practical tips to rediscovering ones limiting potential. The mental training exercises provided me with practical approach to what I can personally do to add beauty to my life.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

I would like to use this opportunity to thank the program director, Deb Rosen and all board of directors of International Institute for Global Leadership, my country director Mr. Felix Iziomoh and all students of the institute for their continuous support and encouragement especially for the patience they have borne with us for spending so much time on a level. I am challenged to work harder and with speed so I can move ahead. I am sincerely indebted to the institute for transforming my life and helping me discover my capabilities.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Real Magic<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the writer is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/p>\n

The main idea of the book is simply this \u201cyou are capable of achieving perfect equilibrium of the mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/p>\n

i. Because the universal law is indestructible and therefore infinite, we can presume that whatever power was used by the miracle workers in the past must still be available today<\/span><\/p>\n

As a spirit with a body, Real Magic have taught me to look beyond the physical to being a spiritual being. I totally believe in being able to perform miracles. I see myself as one who can translate my thoughts into realities and to think that whatever power used by miracle workers in the past is still available today is one thing that challenges me greatly . Often times I sit and think how men invented a lot of machines and electronic devices we enjoy today and I tell myself, they are humans like me and I have all the power to also make a significant difference in my world today . I was really challenged at the just concluded IIGL conference held in Lagos Nigeria when we had Razak Adekoya a visually impaired speaker who charged us in his paper. He spoke so well with an uncommon coordination and intelligence that left me not just impressed but really challenged. I can say clearly here that there is no excuse to achieving whatever level of success one yearns for.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger.<\/span><\/p>\n

The book; Real Magic have a beautiful explanation of this point with the analogy of the snake bite and the venom; the former has happened and cannot unhappen while the latter is the killer that you either allow or push out with the power in you. A lot of things can go wrong when one is angry that is of course if we allow it. I vividly remember a quote I loved reading when I was much younger. \u201cAnger is a small madness so do nothing when you are angry because what you will spoil will be more than what causes you anger.\u201d Whenever I remember certain events in my life that got me really angered and the immediate thoughts that followed , I thank God those thoughts were not executed because they were really bad. I had a misunderstanding with my friend about 3 years ago, we were actually dating at that time but we had a lot of issues in the relationship and I was convinced I needed to walk out which did not go well with him and the best he could do was use abusive words on me and my family and even threaten me but even with that level of anger and suggestions from friends, I never insulted him and my self-control at that time paid off because I sure gained his respect after wards. I think being silent when one is angry has a way of helping us put our emotions in check. I have learnt to move past anger and bitterness as the book have taught.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. Practice trusting your intuition, that invisible inner voice that guides you in all things, including your relationships.<\/span><\/p>\n

It has been said that those who are classified as lucky are essentially those who go with their hunches rather than what others have prescribed. I have learnt to trust my intuitive inner voices because I have discovered that my intuition doesn\u2019t lie to me. As a spiritual being, those inner voices work to direct, guide and shield me from danger. I have learnt to be responsible enough to know what I want and make my own decisions and not wait for friends or other people to dictate my steps in life because I do agree that nobody owes me anything. Back then in school ,I had a lot of people dissuade me on my course of study Agricultural Education because they felt it was not marketable , but I listened to my inner voice and knew that I need not change my course and I continued with it . Also I learnt not to force a relationship to work, I am glad I did work out of wrong relationships when I heard my inner voices direct me to rather than wait and assume things are going to get better.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Begin to act in your physical world as if that person whom you would love to be were already here.<\/span><\/p>\n

I am proud to say that anything I desire to do, I can do. There is no body in this planet that is any better in God\u2019s eyes than me. I have the spirit of God flowing in me all times. I have learnt that when I have a vision and I act as if the vision were already here, I create not only the necessary expertise but I literally become my own miracle worker.<\/span><\/p>\n

It happened that I was doing a research on recession in Nigeria which was to be presented at a small gathering in church and I asked a friend of mine to help me with some points of which he did put up some point together and mailed it , he later called me and asked me to include date on the paper and some other addendum I did not consider necessary but he said something that really struck me \u201dAs a motivational speaker, your paper should appear this way \u2018\u2019 and coincidentally this happened at about the time I was reading this particular point in the book . I was really challenged to do whatever I have to do well and give it my best regardless of the place and status of the people around me.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Listen to your body and it will tell you exactly what you need to know. Every cell in your body has infinite universal intelligence within it.<\/span><\/p>\n

I can\u2019t agree any less with this statement because it\u2019s so real . Most often than not, I hear my body telling me to stop what is not healthy and improve on what is. For example whenever I eat so much junks or practice a sedentary lifestyle for some time or even not do any form of exercise for a long time, I don\u2019t feel comfortable with myself and I can hear my body telling me exactly what it wants like; eat healthy cooked foods, don\u2019t sit in a place for long , get some form of exercise and the like. The truth is, as a master of myself, I should be disciplined enough to practice what is healthy for me.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Inventory the behaviors and characteristics that you exhibited as a child but that are no longer applicable to your adult life.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learned to keep these words \u201cNow I know better\u201d in my consciousness. Being an adult comes with a lot of responsibilities and a sense of maturity is not left out in relating well with people. Now I can gladly look at people and thank God for their peculiarities rather than getting nosy in their affairs and complaining about what they should be doing and are not. A sense of maturity demands that I pay attention to the needs of people around and contribute in my own way, I know better now that I have nothing to lose by forgiving; everyone is unique and demands respect; humility will take me places and that I am a spirit with a body and not a body with a spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Circumstances do not make a man, they reveal him<\/span><\/p>\n

My mind is a very powerful tool I can use to get the best out of me. I will not be a victim of circumstances; I will always be happy and maximize my potentials to the fullest. Recently I lost my job to retrenchment and when I sat back to think, I gave my best in the job, was fully committed and responsible but I did lost it after all. But because I am aware that circumstances don\u2019t make me, I refused to yield to depression or hatred but looked inwards to what I can do as a skilled person in bead making. Now am happily doing it, and I have more time on my hands to develop myself. I have learnt to delete excuses from my dictionary.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so how?<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying that I have a lot to do to improve my life and help create a better world. Some of my resolutions are outlined below:<\/span><\/p>\n

I have made up by mind not to allow circumstances weigh me down. I choose to put up a positive attitude at all times and let my state of happiness radiate to the outside world<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learnt to keep these words \u201cNow I know better\u201d in my consciousness, and with a sense of maturity, let go of things that do not add value to my life. I will always listen to my body, and give it the healthy things that it requires. As a spirit with a body, Real Magic has taught me to look beyond the physical to being a spiritual being. I totally believe in being able to perform miracles and I will translate my positive thoughts into realities. Whatever I set out to do, I will do it so well, having known that I am the best, and I have the potentials to be the best I want to be. I refuse to allow my emotions control me, I will put my anger in check and live beyond bitterness. As a spirit with a body, I can create miracles, I have the potentials to be outstanding and be the change I want to see in the world.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe world is not to be put in order, the world is order incarnate. It is for us to put ourselves in unison with this order.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

How much more can we ask God for, we have a beautiful world with plenty of resources, the onus is on us to make judicious use with what God has given us<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cComplete possession is proved only by giving. All you are unable to give possesses you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There is this feeling of completeness and relevance when you have helped someone and the person sincerely appreciates you and blesses you. Giving is not done when you have in abundance, it sterns from a heart that wants to share.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen the student is ready, the teacher will appear.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This quote offers an excellent explanation for a willing and teachable attitude, we can learn whatever we want to if only we seek to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving and that\u2019s your own self.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I agree that the largest room on earth is the room for self-improvement, I should be self-motivated to improve on my health, academics, spirituality, skills, finances, morals and the like. No one will help me do what I can do for myself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe most important word that\u2019s ever been invented is the word Love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Love, the four lettered word, is so powerful that its strength cannot be covered; with love, happiness flows like river, worries and anxieties fly away, broken hearts are mended and hope is restored. It is in fact the reason God gave the world our most valued gift, his son Jesus Christ to die for us on the cross. Love is indeed the greatest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo live that you wouldn\u2019t be ashamed to sell the family parrot to the town gossip.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Character is what you do when no one is looking at you. I want a life that is free of worries and fear of what people will say, a life that is highly commendable and exemplary for others, A life that glorifies God and that edifies my spirit. So I pray God helps me to live a decent Christian life.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and if so, why?<\/span><\/p>\n

Having read through the book Real Magic, I do agree with Wayne on most of his suggestions raised except for the point suggested in Part 3 of the book; \u201cAsk nothing of anyone.\u201d If I clearly understood the author, he clearly holds to the idea that asking something of someone creates an environment where miracles are impossible to manifest. But my argument is this; \u201cHow then do you get if you don\u2019t ask as the scripture clearly instructs in Matthew 7:7 Ask and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

The book offers concrete suggestions about how to become spiritual beings and create a miracle mindset. These suggestions are really helpful and I resolve to follow through and have a better life.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment<\/span><\/p>\n

There is nothing more I would like to talk about. But to use this medium to thank Deb Rosen , Michael Lightweaver, Kathleen Oweegon, Felix Iziomoh and the entire board members of IIGL for their unflinching support to creating a better world. May God continue to strengthen all of us in this Institute.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 8<\/span>
\n B. How helpful was the content? 9<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The New Dynamics of Winning<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/p>\n

I will like to sum up the author\u2019s idea in these words \u2013 Being a champion means thinking like a champion.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/p>\n

The New Dynamics of Winning is rich with success stories of champions who chose to stand out and pay the price of success. A lot of lessons are inherent within and I will like to share some:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. Champions are disciplined thinkers<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learned to be disciplined in my thinking as a champion, what I think about either builds me or destroy me, the power of my thoughts cannot be overemphasized as they form the framework from which all actions build up. If I think myself a failure , then I shouldn\u2019t be surprised if my life turns out that way because my mind only acted on the information I sent to it, but if I think myself a success, this will in turn translate to success in my prospects in life. It takes a disciplined mind to pull down all forms of negative thoughts and by that, fears and problems are conquered, depression is pushed out, healthy relationships are built and performance is greatly increased.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Learn to say No<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s essential to cultivate an ability to politely refuse activities for which you have no time, no talent or no real interest. A lot of times, we are been tempted to please people by saying yes to their requests forgetting that a people pleaser is a mediocre or even less. Champions learn to say no without any form of apology especially as it is not of interest. I have grown to realize that when people discover that you don\u2019t have a say of your own, no plans, no schedule for the day, no interests or a sense of direction, they tend to take you for granted and you lose your value. One of the things that have really helped me in life is the fact that I give quality time to activities of interest- wherever and whatever I can learn from and I will continue to be grateful to IIGL for this learning opportunity.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. Don\u2019t allow others to contaminate your self\u2013talk with their negativity.<\/span><\/p>\n

This point really struck me because of an incident that happened recently \u2013 One of our choristers in church was very fond of me and was always coming around me so we become close, but I felt really disappointed with her when she told me she was pregnant (though not married) and then with the rumor all over, someone confronted me about the issue and with an obvious sarcasm and mockery quickly added that am the next in line to get pregnant of which I quickly rebuked her and this only left me to imagine how quickly people wish the other fellow failure. But I have learned better to believe in myself and not let people make me feel less of who I am.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. You truly cannot separate your personal life from your professional life.<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying that the quality of our lives is a sum total of what we do every day, it is actually the little things that makes the big difference. A lot of times, we are tempted to think that we will get to do things better with a change in status like being married, getting employed, changing location or meeting new friends forgetting that we are in charge of our lives. I had a reason to believe that a colleague of mine was a very organized man at home because of the way his table is always neatly arranged in his cubicle, you see, I couldn\u2019t agree less with the saying- Charity begins at home. A man who finds it difficult to manage his family\u2019s problem will most likely have issues in managing an organization. I totally agree that it is the little things that make the big difference.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Genuine Credentials<\/span><\/p>\n

When you are in the presence of a genuine authority in your industry, think less about talking and more about listening, and when you hear something directed at you, take it seriously and act upon it. It will probably prove to be valuable advice, if its spoken by someone whose credentials you know to be genuine. No one knows it all, so it takes the mind of a champion to be open to suggestions, corrections, advice and even criticism because those are some of the wings of growth. Listening is one vital skill I have learnt to imbibe because I add to my knowledge when I listen rather than when I just keep talking, I love to listen to people talk especially those who have excelled in life, that way I get to learn some secrets to success and it also challenges me to aim for nothing not excellence.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. If you are determined to be perfect every time you are called upon , you are asking for trouble .<\/span><\/p>\n

If it feels good to hear someone tell you; \u201cI just like the way you do your things, you are just yourself.\u201d I have realized that the less to try to impress, the more impressive you are. It\u2019s really striking how people can easily spot who is trying to impress and who is not. You can feel realness when things are just allowed to flow naturally. I have realized that whenever I am faced with a task that will involve people and am really struggling to get it right I simply ask myself \u2013 Am I trying to impress or do I want to get it just right? And that line of thought has really helped me to cut off all form of excesses.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. When a child is convinced that he or she has the ability to fulfill high expectation, he or she will very likely live up to those expectations as an adult.<\/span><\/p>\n

Words are powerful so we should choose our words carefully. We can build or destroy people with the kind of words we often tell them. If you continuously tell a child he\u2019s a failure, don\u2019t be surprised if he grows up to become irresponsible. I have realized that children take pride in words that elate them. I worked in a school where I take pride in praising my students by calling them all sorts of professional names like Doctor, King, Barrister and the like. I also drill them with a deep sense of optimism by making them see their huge potentials. I can feel the sense of pride and responsibility in them when their self-esteem is built. As I hope to become a mother someday, I will speak positive words to my children and husband, I will make sure their self-worth and esteem is not destroyed even as I keep the optimistic spirit high.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/p>\n

These lessons will no doubt help me in improving my life as it transcends to everyone around me and the world at large. I have resolved to improve my life as thus;<\/span><\/p>\n

If I must be a champion, I must be disciplined in my thoughts and actions. I must realize the power of my thoughts and be the master of my self. I will profess positive words to people around me especially young minds. I will never look down on any one because of their status in life or conditions. People I come in contact with will be fully conscious of the fact that I expect a lot from them. My family will continuously glow in the light of optimism by the grace of God. Being fully aware that I cannot separate my personal life from my professional life, I will try as much as possible to cut off all excesses from my life, be very organized, try to remove any form of distraction on my way, be fully determined to overcome procrastination, set a high standard for myself and fight depression to the root.<\/span><\/p>\n

I won\u2019t allow myself be contaminated with other people\u2019s negativity because what\u2019s more important is the firm belief in myself , capitalizing on my strengths, learning from people who have gone ahead of me and impacting positively in my own way to the people around me. I will live my life to affect and not to impress. By letting the best in me flow naturally, I can influence more people and even win more favors rather than seeking unnecessary attention by acting up.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

There were really helpful quotes from the book that really got my attention. I will like to list and comment on them as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFailure is really a matter of conceit. People don\u2019t work hard because in their conceit, they imagine they will succeed without ever making an effort. Most people believe that they will wake up someday and find themselves rich. Actually they\u2019ve got it half right because eventually they do wake up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Well, a lot of times we deceive ourselves thinking success is achieved by imagination and simply praying it out but the biographies of successful people have revealed that success takes hard work and grit and if I must be successful in life, I shouldn\u2019t leave it to fate. I must work it out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c Mistakes are painful when they happen but years later, a collection of mistakes is called experience\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learned that a life lived making mistakes is more honorable than a life lived doing nothing. It appears our imperfect nature as humans make us liable to make mistakes but then the best we can do for ourselves is the learn the lesson that follows and forge ahead hoping to get it better.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see what\u2019s right and I do it\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The Holy Bible in the book of James says that those who do not do the good they know they should do are guilty of sin and my mom always cautions that it\u2019s simply foolishness if you see what to do and deliberately refuse to do it. Life is really not that hard; it\u2019s simple; \u201cJust do what is right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere isn\u2019t more to life than this; a baby\u2019s smile, a loved one\u2019s kiss, a book, a tree, a song, a friend and just a little time to spend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

God has richly blessed us with a lot of beautiful things in life but most often than not we worry about the things we do not have or are yet to accomplish than being appreciative of our countless blessings from God. We are blessed with all of the things we see around us.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/p>\n

I think Denis Waitley did a great job in the book \u2013 The new dynamics of winning by putting together the success stories of champions as it challenged us to build that mindset. I don\u2019t think I have any issue with his thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

The book contained a 21 Day plan that showed me the mechanics and the benefits of setting objectives, monitoring my progress and achieving my goals. I have some of the points written in my book and there is this beautiful feeling you get when you read up something you wrote down in your own handwriting and you can relate it with the progress you have in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

I would like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL family especially Michael Lightweaver, Deb Rosen, Kathleen Oweegon , Felix Iziomoh and all students of the institute. I have been completely transformed with the lessons I have learnt and every day I look up to completing this course. I pray God to bless us all.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the contents? 9<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/span>
\n D.Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Giant Steps<\/strong><\/span>
\n Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Giant Steps is a book that offers daily inspirations and small actions that will inspire one to take giant steps forward to improve the quality of one\u2019s life. It offers the ultimate game plan for life. It\u2019s an emotionally interactive primer for personal and professional success.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book is very interesting to read, written in simple English language, it offers specific tools that can redefine the quality of your relationships, finances, health and emotions.<\/span><\/p>\n

i. Decision Making<\/span><\/p>\n

The more decisions you make, the better you will become at making them. It goes without saying that our decisions contributes greatly to determining our destinies. I will like to start some specific decisions I made while reading the book which are:<\/span>
\n I will read everyday<\/span>
\n I will complete my course with IIGL<\/span>
\n I am responsible for my thoughts so I will take charge of my thoughts<\/span>
\n I will be kind, caring, considerate and empathetic<\/span>
\n I will teach youth and children Biblical practices<\/span>
\n I will advance in my academic pursuits<\/span>
\n I will be a loving wife and mother<\/span>
\n My happiness is solely my responsibility so I will not tie it to events or circumstances.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Happiness<\/span><\/p>\n

There\u2019s a huge difference between achieving to be happy and happily achieving. I have read that Happiness is an inside thing and that things do not necessarily make us happy. That explains why a lot of people who the society term successful could be suffering from depression or suicidal attempts. One can be happily achieving with the right mindset and decisions. If I believe that I can attain happiness when I get married or have a certain amount of money in my bank account, then my definition of happiness is questionable but if in the quest of achieving success, I put up a mindset of high- spiritedness, positivity and uncommon cheerfulness, then my happiness is continuous and undeniable. I am happily achieving.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. Global Believes<\/span><\/p>\n

Global beliefs are usually based on some generalization made long ago under extreme circumstances. The effect beliefs can have on our lives is unlimited. On this point, I will like to talk about societal beliefs and tribal sentiments. As a Nigerian, we grew up in a country where we are taught (although informally) that one tribe or ethnic group is superior to another or that we shouldn\u2019t marry from one ethnic group or another.<\/span>
\n It gets to the extent where some tribal groups have been identified with certain unpalatable names like \u2013 Wicked, Fetish, Deceptive, Indecisive, Flirty and the like. The truth is that these ideas have been registered in our heads and it affects our sense of judgment and relationship with other people. I believe in the power of Change, one mind, one belief, one show of love, one imagination can go a long way in creating a positive impact in our lives and society and the world at large.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Just because you don\u2019t see immediate results, it doesn\u2019t mean you are not making progress.<\/span><\/p>\n

Most often, we could be impatient especially when we want to achieve something or get too apprehensive and worried but reading this book have taught me that emotion of fear, apprehension, worry and anxiety is simply a call to action \u2013 i.e. A need to be more prepared for what is about to occur. There\u2019s no better time to have this registered in my head than this because I am greatly encouraged with the fact that I am making progress. I recently got a marketing job in an insurance company, and truth be told, it\u2019s really not easy to get people to buy insurance especially in this part of the world where acceptability level is so low but whenever I get disturbed about not making sales , I encourage myself that am making progress and meeting people. I keep a very optimistic mindset, and believe that my efforts will pay off sooner than I think.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Read books, watch movies, and video tapes, attend plays, go to seminars, talk with strangers.<\/span><\/p>\n

What we associate with, where we go to, the kind of associations we have, what we listen and watch, what we read contributes greatly to shape our destinies. Interestingly these are the little things we do every day and I believe he have choices to make on what we want to associate with like the book explained. For instance reading a great book makes you start thinking like the author. And I must confess, I was literally absorbed in my reading and saw myself having a heart \u2013 to heart talk with the author. The feeling is inexplicable.<\/span>
\n One book I couldn\u2019t forget in hurry and that taught me the power of love and forgiveness is Franchine River\u2019s Redeeming Love. There is really a lot to learn from great minds and other peoples\u2019 experiences from books. Same goes with educative movies, Godly and inspiring video tapes, interactive workshops and seminars and talking with great minds and people who have gone ahead of us in life. A friend of mine will always say \u201cif you learn from other people\u2019s experiences, you are stealing from wisdom\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Personal Definition<\/span><\/p>\n

A change in your personal definition will instantly change the talents you express, the behaviors you demonstrate and the aspirations you pursue. It\u2019s the filter through which every decision is made, the core belief through which you interpret all of life\u2019s experiences. My personal definition is, \u201c I am strong, optimistic, caring, friendly, and empathetic and high- spirited. I can achieve whatever I set out to achieve. I was born for greatness, and greatness I shall achieve. My life is a reflection of God\u2019s faithfulness and grace and so loving God is what I will do every day of my life. I am happy regardless of any situation, my life is an example for others to emulate.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Don\u2019t take your lover for granted<\/span><\/p>\n

Familiarity they say breeds contempt and someone added; children. It takes a lot of love, commitment and decency to treat a lover aright because of over- familiarity. Most times I tell myself that if anything happens to my relationship, then I am the cause so because I value it, I make it work. Tony Robbins offers the secrets to include among many \u2013 See your relationship as a place you go to give, not a place that you go to get ,communicate clearly upfront, never threaten it, know the value and rules of the person with whom you are involved. I shouldn\u2019t allow familiarity habituate me to the intense excitement and gratitude I feel for having someone special in my life. I will show deep appreciation and commitment to my relationship and of course my family.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

These lessons will no doubt help me in improving my life as it transcends to everyone around me. I have resolved to improve my life as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

I have made great decisions that are geared towards shaping my destiny and I pledge to stick to them I am happily achieving so I will put up a cheerful disposition and be grateful for all the lessons i learnt in overcoming challenges I come across<\/span>
\n I will appreciate people for their uniqueness especially my loved ones and not take any one for granted.<\/span>
\n I have a very firm belief and optimistic perception of myself. My worth as a person cannot be quantified. I am great and greatness I shall exude.<\/span>
\n I am solely responsible for making decisions, so I shall make the right decisions, associate with the right people, be in right places and read the right books.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cEvery great and commanding moment in the annals of the world is the triumph of some enthusiasm.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

An enthusiastic spirit is a winning spirit; enthusiasm goes with passion and unwavering spirit. To be really successful, one needs to be enthusiastic about any venture in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is the mind that maketh good of ill, that maketh wretch or happy, rich or poor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Our minds are very powerful and we are simply products of our mindset, life offers us opportunities or regrets depending on how we look at it. Nothing in life has any meaning except the meaning we give it. One of the marvels of being human is our ability to fill any event with uplifting or devastating significance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The questions we ask as well as the ones we don\u2019t ask, shapes our destinies. Asking questions brings us to a new level of success and when we fail to ask, we are likely to assume, and I must say Assumption is the lowest form of knowledge. There is no harm in trying to know, even the holy book admonishes us to ask and we shall receive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA powerful agent is the right word, whenever we come upon one of those intensely right words, the resulting effect is physical as well as spiritual and electrically prompt\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Words have power to destroy or build. It\u2019s of worth to note that words when spoken cannot come back. It takes a good sense of discipline and outright consideration to speak politely when we are angry. Our choice of words can either encourage us or frustrate us. The words we attach to our experience, becomes our experience.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf we all did the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I totally agree with Edison on this, when I look back to some of my achievements and ventures, I will be like \u2018how on earth did I do that?\u2019 I grew to believe that there is nothing called impossible. Impossible is in the mind of a small thinker. The wonders of science and advancements in technology prove the fact that the human mind can do wonders; an idea is enough to rule the world.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Tony Robbins in his book Giant Steps helps us gain access to the best parts of ourselves so that we can consistently produce the results we desire. The book is a valuable treasure map; beautifully written in simple English language, it helps the reader connect with the author and you can practically evaluate your life as you read. I totally agree with the author on his submissions. It is really a manual for everyday living.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

To get the best of the book while reading, a journal or notebook should be kept handy. As the book contains a lot of exercises for the reader, it is a source of both inspiration and action. I took time to write out some helpful points and also carried out some exercises. It was really helpful to me.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I would like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL family especially Michael Lightweaver, Deb Rosen, Kathleen Oweegon , Felix Iziomoh and all students of the institute. I have been completely transformed with the lessons I have learnt and every day I look up to completing this course. I pray God to bless us all.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How to Win Friends and Influence People<\/strong><\/span>
\n Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book, How toWin Friends and Influence People is an eye opener to the little things we can do to make a big difference. The sole purpose of this book is to help one discover, develop and profit those dormant and unused assets.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book is so rich and interesting, it contains a lot of peoples\u2019 experiences of how the suggestions interplayed in their relationship with others. I will like to point out the ideas that were most important to me as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. 99 times out of 100, people don\u2019t criticize themselves for anything, no matter how wrong it may be<\/span><\/p>\n

Reading this book, helped me appreciate people more and admit the fact that everyone have a sense of importance and thirsts for approval. People do not want to be criticized no matter how badly they performed. This took me back memory lane to the days of my secondary school where we don\u2019t find it funny if the teacher decides to call out our test or exam scores to the hearing of everyone in the class especially when most of us know we performed badly. This is simply because we don\u2019t want to be looked down on by our classmates. I sure have an integrity to protect.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. We often take our spouses so much for granted that we never let them know we appreciate them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Not just our spouses, but our friends, siblings, mates, colleagues and the like. Most times because of familiarity, we tend to take people for granted. We make a little appreciation look so big and heavy forgetting that everyone craves to be appreciated. This can be seen even with our interactions with people daily, for instance, help an old woman pick up something from the floor, and you will crave for appreciation, the same goes with buying sweet for a child, helping your sister iron her clothes, running little errands around the home etc. it\u2019s only natural to feel appreciated when you have done something good. So I have been challenged not to take anyone for granted and be quick to show appreciation such that when I get married, my husband and children will be proud of me as an appreciative mother and wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. The world is full of people who are grabbing and self seeking. So the rare individual who unselfishly tries to serve others has an enormous advantage. He has little competition.<\/span><\/p>\n

I totally agree with this statement, we are so in a competitive world, from the home , school, religious centers, work places, recreational centers, parties, occasions and the like, we compete for virtually everything. The world is changing so fast, and we all seek to meet up with the changing trend so subconsciously we find ourselves grabbing for recognition and dominance and by so doing, we forget the other person needs a little help from us. It takes a heart that loves God to be considerate and empathetic about others and just as Owen Young puts it \u2013 \u2018People who can put themselves in the place of other people, who can understand the workings of their minds, need never worry about what the future has in store for them\u2019. Indeed posterity will remember a selfless person. Most of the great people we celebrate today like Nelson Mandela, Mary Slessor, Nnamdi Azikiwe ( Nigeria) all fought a selfless course for the good of all.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. An average person is more interested in his or her name than in all the other names on earth put together<\/span><\/p>\n

There is something great about a name, a person\u2019s name is the most sweetest and most important sound in any language. The sound of one\u2019s name is enough to get you startled, shocked, terrified, excited or recognized. In Africa, a mispronunciation of name is considered offensive as it is likely to change the real meaning. Calling one\u2019s name is enough even to abate a danger or win a favor. I travelled with a family friend one time and we got to a military checkpoint, after which the driver of the vehicle was instructed to wind down the glasses of which he did and the smart driver quickly said \u2018Oga Isah Idris, how is work?\u2019 after he stole a quick glance at the name tag on his uniform. The soldier with a beaming smile asked how the journey had been and bade us good bye. I needn\u2019t be told that the man was excited about hearing his name.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Always make the other person feel important.<\/span><\/p>\n

I was really touched by this statement from a boy to his mother \u2018I really know you love me because whenever I want to talk to you about something, you stop whatever you are doing and listen to me\u2019. How much more can you ask of someone than a rapt attention. People love to be listened to especially when they talk about themselves. When you give people attention, you get the best of them. That explains why people get offended when someone seems to be listening to them but is often distracted by their phones, that way, the attention is divided and this action rather looks insulting.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. You can measure the size of a person by what makes him or her angry.<\/span><\/p>\n

As I read the book and I gave across this statement, I couldn\u2019t help but smile because I know I am guilty of getting unnecessarily angry. I can be angry at the least possible reason but not for a good cause. To make matters worse, the anger lingers for a long time and affects virtually everything I do and my reasoning.<\/span>
\n I can tell this is true because my friends have confirmed this to me and my fianc\u00e9 being the highest complainer have been a lot worried about this attitude of mine.<\/span>
\n But with the study of this great book, I have learnt that only a small mind gets pissed with petty things, I would rather channel my energy to productive ventures than getting myself worked up unnecessarily.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. It is always easier to listen to unpleasant things after we have heard some praise of our good points.<\/span><\/p>\n

I strongly believe that no matter how bad someone may seem, there is always something good or appreciable about the person, that is to say, everyone needs to be appreciated so a little wouldn\u2019t hurt. There is no better person to appreciate than my fianc\u00e9 John who loves to first appreciate me for all the good qualities he can think of before pointing out areas he feels I have done badly or where my attitude isn\u2019t right. That way, I feel loved, respected and appreciated and will not want to hurt him again. Same goes with a learning environment. Any teacher that is known for appreciating his or her students and corrects in a respectful manner is greatly loved by students. I will add that It takes humility and wisdom to relate in an appreciable manner with people.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The ideas I have learnt in the book will not doubt affect me positively in my relationship with people at home, church, workplace, street to mention but a few. I will like to state them clearly as thus: Everyone likes to feel important so I have learnt not to treat people with contempt but to appreciate and praise. I will not take people for granted but will help them build on their areas of strength. I have learned to be selfless, fight a good course for the benefit of everyone around me and for the generation yet unborn. My idea have turned from \u2013What am I going to benefit from this to how will people benefit from me? I value my name and so do others. I will be responsive to peoples\u2019 needs and cravings especially for the need to be recognized by their names and others like wishing them well on their birthdays, anniversaries, and praying for them. I will give people due attention, listen with keen interest when I am conversing and also spare my time and resources to make the other person comfortable and happier. I have resolved not to get unnecessarily pissed off or to let matter of little significance disturb my peace. I am too great to be let down by circumstances. I will be quick to comment, slow to criticize and honest with corrections.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contained a lot of quotes that challenged my way of thinking and motivated me to grow an excellent mind. Some of the quotes are:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee. And I will pay more for that ability than for any other under the sun.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The business of dealing with people is sure not a small one and I am glad to have read Dale Carnegie\u2019s book that gave the secret to winning friends and influencing people. I am sure to put all that I have learnt into practice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs much as we thirst for approval, we dread condemnation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The statement that keeps ringing in my mind as I read is; \u201cBe hearty in your approbation and lavish in praise. Naturally everyone feels elated and honored when praised but \u2018dies\u2019 in ambition when criticized. I learned so much to be slow to criticize.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEveryman I meet is my superior in some way, in that I learn of him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This is an eye opener not to look down on anyone but to humbly look out for what to learn from people. There is always something to learn from others if only we can admit the fact that we can never know it all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c People who smile tend to manage, teach and sell more effectively and to raise happier children. There\u2019s far more information in a smile than a frown. That\u2019s why encouragement is a much more effective teaching device than punishment.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

If a great industrialized nation like China can be known with the saying, \u201cA man without a smiling face must not open a shop, it goes without saying that Smile is a very powerful tool to use so as to win favor, promote friendship and be generally cheerful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCompared with what we ought to be, we are only half awake. We are making use of only a small part of our physical and mental resources. Stating the thing broadly, the human individual thus tries far within his limits. He possesses powers of various sorts which he habitually fails to use.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After reading this, I was greatly challenged of the inherent potentials in me. I possess unlimited power to explore. I have all it takes to make a great positive change and create an impact in my life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAssume a virtue if you have it not.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Simply put, you can become whatever you want to, learn a new skill, improve on yourself and be practically outstanding.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I read the book and I enjoyed every bit of it, the content is rich with people\u2019s experiences and testimonies as how the suggestions in the books helped them develop better relationship and create positive influence. I totally agree with the author on his submissions.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains highlighted points at the end of each chapter, to direct the reader to an immediate cause of action. I wrote down these points in my note pad which I visit often to keep myself in line with the suggestions in the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Having read through the book, I don\u2019t have any other thing to comment about but just want to use this opportunity to thank Deb Rosen, Michael Lightweaver, Kathleen Oweegon, Felix Iziomoh and all other students of IIGL. I feel loved with all of you, thank you very much.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Success through a Positive Mental Attitude<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cSuccess through a positive Mental Attitude\u201d is one book that was written with the total positive transformation of the reader in mind. It is essentially a book on Motivation and the purpose is to motivate oneself and others with a positive mental attitude.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

A rich book I must say, I was totally consumed in the ideas drawn from the book and I will like to share some which are personally most important to me as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. The secret of getting things done is to act I love the self\u2013starter; Do It Now!<\/span><\/p>\n

It is a very powerful self \u2013 motivator that keeps me on my toes everyday. I used to be a person that procrastinates a lot, always pushing things to a convenient time (or so I thought) of which they never get done at all or not done well . But recently I can confidently say that the self\u2013motivator \u2013Do It Now is a propeller that pushes me to do things timely. I agree with the authors that sometimes the decision to act immediately can make your wildest dreams come true.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Success must be continually practiced or it will take wings and fly away<\/span><\/p>\n

This got me really thinking, and I could tell that great people in life in whatever field of endeavor be it politics, sciences, sport, journalism, academia, entertainment, fashion and the like were men and women who never rested on their oars. They know that to keep been at the top of their careers or goals, they have to keep striving. That leaves me with a question- What good virtues, character and goals do I keep promoting?<\/span><\/p>\n

I will like to remind myself here of some of my goals<\/span>
\nI will read everyday<\/span>
\nI will always act promptly and not procrastinate<\/span>
\nService to others is what the Bible preaches so I will try to be of service to people<\/span>
\nI will not allow my emotions overwhelm me to lose my self control<\/span>
\nI will continually ask God to help me in life<\/span>
\nI will advance academically<\/span>
\nHaving these and many others in mind, I believe Success for me will be a continuous thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. Man is the member of the animal kingdom who through the functioning of his conscious mind can voluntarily control his emotions from within rather than forced to do so by external influencers<\/span><\/p>\n

The Bible tells us that God created man in his own Image and likeness and gave us power over all the other creatures. Man is indeed more powerful than we can think. The greatness that God has put in us can not be quantified. We are a mind with a body and have power to make choices and control our emotions. I am fully aware that I am responsible for the decisions I make and for my emotions. I am a strong advocate of abstinence before marriage and by the grace of God I am keeping to my decisions not to get sexually intimate with any man before I get married. It\u2019s sad that our world today promotes immorality and even abstinence is called old school and even termed impossible but the knowledge that I can voluntarily control my emotions from within keeps me going. I love an extract from the book that goes; \u201cThe instinct of sex in the subconscious mind will be patient if it has hope that you will fulfill life\u2019s mission.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Inspiration books are tremendously instrumental in changing lives<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying that the books we read and the thoughts we think affects our subconscious minds. Books motivate and inspire us. They are tools that can launch one into a bold new program and which can also light the dark days that any such program entails. I can\u2019t thank IIGL enough for this beautiful opportunity to read and be inspired by great authors. My level of thinking, love for self and others, appreciation of my unique self, self motivation and association have greatly changed by reading. I am a strong advocate for reading on the Facebook hash tag ReadbooksIn2018 and a lot of people have been inspired and are advocating for the love of books as well. Most often, when I read books, I find the books reading me, I can easily assess my life and success level. I will not fail to mention here that the Bible is the best inspirational and motivational book. In it, success is revealed; character is molded; nobility is preached; sin is forbidden and the grace of God avails .So I have resolved to read my Bible everyday. Books are indeed catalyst to desirable positive action and success.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. There is something infinitely better than making a living: It is making a noble life.<\/span><\/p>\n

A noble life is a life where excellence in character can be seen. People tend to remember you not by how much money you gave them but by how much their lives were affected positively by you. I can boldly say that nobility is far better than riches. I did not understand this statement until a friend reminded me I bought fruits for her a year ago when she was ill. I honestly did not remember this but she did not forget. Every occasion should indeed be a great occasion to display excellence in character and service to humanity. I believe that a good character will speak for me even in my absence and will propel me to great things in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Your health is one of your most valuable assets. Many a man today would be more than willing to trade his wealth for good health.<\/span><\/p>\n

I am reminded of the popular saying \u201cHealth is Wealth.\u201d Good health is indeed a priceless asset. A healthy body is a body fit for work and all forms of activities.<\/span>
\nI realized that it doesn\u2019t cost much to stay healthy because God has blessed us with all kinds of natural foods to enrich our bodies and speed up all developmental processes. Being healthy is as simple as eating right and exercising. To consciously stay in good shape, I choose the right kind of foods and I actively engage myself in work. I try to skip every morning and I also take personal hygiene seriously.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Sales are contingent upon the attitude of the sales man, not the prospect<\/span><\/p>\n

I got really caught by this statement especially for the fact that I recently got a job as a sales person in an insurance company. My job is a lot challenging and to think that one has to be convincing enough to sell insurance in Nigeria where the penetration level is less than 1%. Undoubtedly , most of my colleagues do not find the job interesting at all but rather look for every opportunity to discourage sales staff and they will be like \u2018 This is not a job at all, I am only patching up while waiting for a bigger offer else where\u2019. That leaves me to wonder how I can make it. But having read a lot of books on success and motivation, I refused to associate with them and their attitude towards the job as I told my self that I am going to make it. I set to work with a positive attitude and by God\u2019s grace, I can say I am the top seller among my equals at work. Sales are indeed contingent upon the attitude of the salesman because experience have taught me that most people would rather not invest their money in insurance so the onus is on the seller to be convincing enough putting the right attitude to work.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The lessons in this book are indeed invaluable and will help me in life. I want to spell them out below:<\/span><\/p>\n

I will associate myself with people who motivate and inspire me and put the right attitude to work. If anything doesn\u2019t work well, I will look at it as my own problem to fix rather than shift blames.<\/span><\/p>\n

Health is wealth: I will always have it at the back of my mind that healthy living is as simple as eating right and being physically active. I will choose my activities carefully.<\/span>
\nIntegrity is a watchword I will uphold. So whatever I do, I will put honesty and the fear of God first . I will not allow my emotions to overpower me, I will take charge of my life and put my mind to work in everything. I will write down my goals and read them everyday to keep me abreast of the track I need to follow in life and channel my energies accordingly. Reading is a habit I will uphold and cherish, I will not only read books but let the books read me. Do It Now is a self-starter that is registered in my subconscious and is continuously pushing me to action.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains some quotes that really captured my attention. They are:<\/span>
\n\u201cA failure uses up as much energy in his work at failing as a successful person uses in winning success.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This quotes really challenged me and gave me no reason to fail, the onus is on me to channel my energy to productive ventures.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you believe you can do it, most of the time you can, It\u2019s mind over matter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Our mind is very powerful and can create and recreate, it can mold a personality or destroy a person. It\u2019s simply a function of our belief.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no reason why any man can\u2019t be as fit at 50 as he was at 20, provided he knows how to train his body.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I totally agree with Dr. Cureton and I want to say I don\u2019t have any reason not to be fit and energetic in life as I have been empower with all relevant information.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShow me a millionaire and I will show you almost invariably a heavy borrower.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Reading this quote and indeed the chapter on Using Other People\u2019s money changed my orientation about borrowing. Earlier before now, I didn\u2019t believe in borrowing and thought that it brings in a lot of financial burden but I have been made to understand that most business people cannot do without borrowing and it has lot to do with honesty and integrity on the part of the one borrowing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEvery one has some creative ability but most people haven\u2019t learned to use it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I totally agree with this statement, God has embedded in us creative abilities but most of us fail to use them because we do not believe in our selves or that we haven\u2019t even made an attempt. But the truth is you never know how much you can unless you try.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book Success through a Positive Mental Attitude is indeed a great book, excellently written to help anyone achieve his or her dream with the right attitude. I totally agree with the ideas in the book and have no reservations.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains key notes after every chapter that are meant to steer one\u2019s thought. Added to that is a Success Quotient Analysis which I completed and I scored 212. So according to the rating, I am on the average.<\/span>
\nSo I will work on my weak areas.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I would like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL family especially Michael Lightweaver, Deb Rosen, Kathleen Oweegon, Felix Iziomoh and all students of the Institute. I have been completely transformed with the lessons I have learnt and every day I look up to completing this course. I pray God to bless us all.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Goal Setting 101<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Goal setting 101 is a beautiful book well written to address the fundamentals of setting and achieving a goal. The book is basically about achieving a goal. It aims to move the reader from a point of \u201cWhere I am\u201d to \u201cWhere I want to be\u201d with well thought out goal setting methods, insights and suggestions to seeking path to success.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Goal setting 101 is a book rich in great ideas that propels success. There are invaluable ideas that are of immense benefit to me, I would like to write about them below:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. Success is the intentional, pre-meditated use of choice and decision.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unless you choose with certainty; what it is you want, you accept table scraps by default This statement holds true for anything we do in life. When I read this part of the book, it really struck me and I asked myself. \u201cWhat am I living for?\u201d \u201cDo I have principles I cannot compromise in life?\u201d \u201cWhat do I stand for?\u201d \u201cWhat are my plans to move me from where I am to where I want to be in life?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

These questions might sound rhetorical but the truth is that at some point in my life, I need to really sit down and do a personal retreat of my accomplishments and my prospects in life. To answer some of these questions, I can boldly say by the grace of God that my love for God will continue to wax stronger and stronger. I live to be an inspiration and positive influence to people by reason of interaction, lifestyle and mentorship. My choices in life will be rooted on the knowledge of God\u2019s words and instruction even as I strive to uphold my Godly personal principles.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Be Authentic<\/span><\/p>\n

A short powerful statement, it reminds me to be unapologetically myself, be happy with myself and not judge my progress in life based on other people\u2019s timelines.It could be a lot tempting to want to try to imitate other people, how they walk, talk, and even their jobs. Forgetting that each one of us is unique in our own ways. I remember back then in school ( in my university days),where I met a lot of people I admired and sometimes I wish I have their features, and even studying their various courses . I had some kind of feeling that other people were better than me or had what I didn\u2019t have . But now , I have grown to appreciate authenticity and originality. It feels a lot better to be and appreciate my self.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. As your birthright, you are given your greatest power.<\/span><\/p>\n

The power to choose. Every moment offers you a choice: to exercise this power by setting and holding a direction or to veer off course \u2013 I can relate this statement to my beliefs as a Christian. From the Bible, in the very beginning, God gave Adam and Eve the power to choose from the garden and they chose to eat from the forbidden fruit. This really hit me hard because the world offers us a lot of choices, you can be a couch potato or go all out and be hardworking; you can choose to have sex with every available guy you meet or you can decide to save your pride for your husband in the future. I can go on and on. I appreciate God for giving me this super power and I ask for his grace to exercise this right. I have decided to believe in myself in as much as it pleases God and not let what people say or think about me get a greater part of me.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Always set a deadline<\/span><\/p>\n

I am one person that really needs this. I can decide to do a thing and not care when I finish, most often I don\u2019t even measure progress. Last year I decided to learn in skill in Tailoring , it appeared difficult for me owing to the fact that I was not consistent because of the nature of my job, I realized I wasn\u2019t making any measurable progress because I didn\u2019t put a timeline to it. Now I have learnt better, if I must meet my goal, I must be disciplined enough to set my timeline and follow through. Now, I have decided a week will not pass by without reading or reviewing one of my IIGL books. I will be faithful and committed to achieving this.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Find a Mentor<\/span><\/p>\n

I believe that in life, you will always meet somebody who has experienced whatever challenge you are going through and has overcame but because we live in a world where we have resources at our disposal and information is a click away so we might think we know all we want to know and don\u2019t necessarily need a mentor. But just recently, I went through a lot of emotional crisis that really weighed me down .It was a big challenge for me , because it was affecting my happiness and my relationship. it happened that my fianc\u00e9 and I needed to see a man who was more like a father to us. And I can say this fatherly advice helped us a lot. The role of a mentor cannot be overemphasized in building and grooming mentees. They are always source of inspiration, motivation and guide in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Writing something down is the first step towards achieving it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Well, a lot of times we could deceive ourselves by thinking that our brains are always alert and responsive but then the truth is, it might fail us. I realized that I can actually make the mistake of thinking I can keep my goals in my head. I recently came across some goals I wrote some years ago and I felt really satisfied and fulfilled that I had achieved about 70% of them. Indeed, it is only by writing each step that I can see where I am going and this will certainly enable me to look back and determine if I have done what I planned to do.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Celebrate your accomplishments<\/span><\/p>\n

I agree that this is essential to boosting morale. I should celebrate my self even better than others would. I grew up in a society where we felt that only others are allowed to celebrate us and everyone will feel you are kind of proud or want to do a show \u2013 off when you try to celebrate yourself. But now, I have outgrown that mentality, when I feel I have achieved something, I celebrate it, I don\u2019t have to wait for a man to take me out to a restaurant, cinema, show or a shopping mall. I can do that by my self and be happier. And I can proudly tell that I have celebrated myself countless times in my own way. Those little accomplishments are worth celebrating.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The ideas I have learnt will undoubtedly help me in my life to attract more positive things and create positive influence in my environment by way of :<\/span>
\nMentoring young minds in my vicinity on making right decisions in life<\/span>
\nI will live to appreciate my unique self and strive towards self development. This will help create an air of confidence and healthy self esteem.<\/span>
\nCelebrating myself will be a habit for me<\/span>
\nI refuse to believe that I can have my goals arranged in my head. I will make sure to always write them down and periodically do a personal self assessment.<\/span>
\nI choose to maximize on my power of Choice.<\/span>
\nI will always measure my progress in any task I set out to achieve by setting deadlines and faithfully following through.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

After going through the book, I couldn\u2019t place my hands on any quote that stood out.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I can say that the thoughts of Gary Ryan Blair in the book Goal Setting 101 are succinctly written and clearly understood. I can\u2019t agree less with the points raised in the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Goal Setting 101 contained a lot of exercises that helped me to identify my goals, do a personal SWOT, and be more deliberate about accomplishing my goals. The exercises are invaluable and I can always make references to them as I have them written out in my note pad.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I would like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL and her board of directors for this golden opportunity to develop my self by way of reading and growing in the knowledge gained. I must add here that the lessons from my study have kept me pushing in life even in the face of attending challenges. I eagerly work to get to the last phase of my study.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10, Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Leadership for Dummies<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Leadership for dummies is a complete module for developing leadership skills. The book shows how to add leadership skills to one\u2019s arsenal of personal traits and explains how doing so helps one to achieve more happiness and contentment in all areas of life.<\/span>
\nIt seeks to elucidate on these requirements for a successful leadership:<\/span>
\nElicit the cooperation of others<\/span>
\nListen<\/span>
\nPut others before yourself<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I must say that Leadership for Dummies had so much content and points that I might not exhaust in discussion. The explained points are so much that I got so consumed in reading and was really charged to be a more productive leader.<\/span><\/p>\n

i. You can\u2019t be a leader if you\u2019re afraid of responsibility and accountability.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leadership is all about creating influence and it takes a lot of deliberateness in purpose and action to do this. One cannot be a leader and shy away from responsibilities, As a matter of fact leaders are responsible people. Some years back, I was elected to be the vice chairman of the choir group in my church , it was very challenging for me because I had a lot of opposition. Majority of the choristers did not find me fit for that position because they felt I was relatively new and small. But then I took up the challenge and carried out my responsibilities well despite the antagonism. Even though I had reasons to decline the position and shy away , I made up my mind to do the very best I can.<\/span>
\nIndeed, I quite agree with Goleman that the ability to embrace responsibility ( emotional intelligence) accounted for 90% of the difference between average leaders and star performers. I chose to be a star performer regardless of any situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. One of the discoveries that you make as a leader is that you are never going to make everyone happy.<\/span><\/p>\n

I realized while growing that trying to please anyone never gets us any credit after all. People are never going to get satisfied, we will always have a long list of dissatisfaction and complaints. It does take a lot to understand that you can not make everyone happy. People have their own views, opinions and perceptions as well and most times they could cause disagreements and opinion clash but the best a leader can do is to try and manage people and their opinions. In the light of this knowledge, I have resolved not to be a people pleaser but to be objective in handling matters.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. When you make a discretionary decision, the person whom the decision affects deserves to know the exact reasons why he or she is being targeted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leadership has a lot to do with listening and being empathetic. Your followers should be able to tell that you can also relate to their experiences and not act unaware of their pains.<\/span>
\nI worked in a school for some years and at a point during the time of economic recession the school management decided to do some restructuring and that will imply that some staff members will have to be laid off and unfortunately , I was one of those to be affected. Even though I was pained and highly disappointed, I didn\u2019t allow the situation weigh me down. The Human Resource Manager had a good time of discussion with me explaining that I didn\u2019t do any thing wrong to be laid off but that the decision had to be taken. I appreciated the fact that he made me understand the situation of things and was really concerned about me.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Don\u2019t torture yourself and the people around you with indecisiveness.<\/span><\/p>\n

Nobody wants to work with a leader who is nonassertive whether it is in a religious or formal working environment. It\u2019s very satisfying if one can tell in the face of confusion that the leader can provide a long standing decision.<\/span>
\nIndecisiveness breaks trust and slows implementation of goals. I can relate to this because I worked with a boss who we always predict what he will say or do. That way we never took him serious, came late for his meetings and didn\u2019t take deadlines seriously.<\/span>
\nEvery great leader always sets the ball rolling with morale and doggedness.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. A vision tells people that no matter what happens , their struggle is worthwhile.<\/span><\/p>\n

A vision can be seen as a bridge between the present and the future and successful leadership requires that the vision is realizable and worth pursuing. I worked in a secondary school and at a point, staff members had a lot of complaints about the entry requirements for new intake as most of them were admitted even with poor grades in the entrance examinations which caused a slow down in achieving learning objectives in class. Staff members then demanded a redress in the admission policy. The school management solved the matter by reiterating that the vision of the school still remains \u2018 High Achievement for All\u2019 and cannot the changed. Staff members were then encouraged to buy into the school\u2019s vision and take pride in transforming a child from whatever form they come into a transformed and well groomed individual. With this, I can tell that vision indeed tells people that indeed their struggle is worthwhile.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. The soul of entrepreneurial activity is team work.<\/span><\/p>\n

The beauty of working as a team made more sense to me when I joined SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) now ENACTUS in the university and we had to be grouped to carry out different projects that will put us on an edge to win the national SIFE competition. We were trained and taught to gain ownership, accountability and forgiveness. I could feel the love in everybody\u2019s eye . Every member cooperated with their group leaders and put in a lot of time and efforts in carrying out an assigned project. I must say that all our efforts was rewarded as we came first runner up. I can proudly say that working together is the beginning of achieving success in any enterprise.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Opportunities are out in the world all the time. All you need to do is open your eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s been said that one striking difference between the wealthy and the poor is that while wealthy people are proficient at targeting market opportunities, the poor are proficient at giving excuses. It does take a man of vision and foresight to see and capitalize on opportunities. For instance, the same trash in a smelling refuse collector is what someone is turning into a multi- million naira business. I am indeed challenged to see just beyond my eyes and try to harness and make good use of opportunities around me however unrewarding it may be at first.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This book is super packed with lessons that will make me an enviable leader and also prepare me for a more profitable position in the near future. I will be deliberate about being a better leader by practicing the following:<\/span><\/p>\n

I will always capitalize on opportunities to apply for grants, scholarships or online programs that will be of immense benefit to me.<\/span>
\nI will always give my best in a group or team so that everyone can indeed achieve more.<\/span>
\nI will always be responsible for my choices and actions in life. My life will be guided by deliberateness of purpose and insight.<\/span>
\nI have learned that my happiness is not dependent on others and I am as well not responsible for other people\u2019s happiness. This understanding have set a pace for me not to try to please everyone or respond to all their demands.<\/span>
\nI should be guided by my own vision and mission and be disciplined to follow through.<\/span>
\nListening skills and empathy are skills I should uphold and carry with me as I relate with people in my daily life.<\/span>
\nIndecisiveness kills people, plans and prospects. I will work with every sense of assertiveness and self \u2013 realization.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This book is enriched with quotes of great men and thinkers. The deep meanings in these quotes leaves me in deep thought and imagination. I will like to share some of them as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnybody can do a great job when there\u2019s nothing at stake. It\u2019s when you don\u2019t want to do the assignment but you write a great story anyway that you know you\u2019re a professional.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Attitude is indeed everything as the right attitude will set you in tune to be exception in everything, that push that drives you to do things right and do the right things is priceless.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can\u2019t find them, make them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I am reminded again that determination never harbors excuses and discouragement but keeps pushing till the desired result is achieved.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLeadership and learning are indispensable to each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I totally agree with Kennedy as all the great leaders I know seek to keep learning and growing. They give no room for complacency.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c90% of success is simply showing up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As a leader, I should be available, dependable and consistent. No rooms for excuses.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI never met a man I didn\u2019t like.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This got me thinking about what the author had in mind to say this , but this is what I made of it \u2013 I should learn to love, appreciate and respect people regardless of social status or class. That way I can relate well with anybody.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI find the great thing in this world is not so much where we stand , as in what direction we are moving.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I must learn to live life with deliberateness of purpose and direction and not just anyhow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExperience has shown that every man is the architect of his own fortune.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Whatever I allow in my life is what I live with. The onus is on me to set my standards and priorities right so I can always get the best for myself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to be willing to err and err and err again, but less and less and less.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I should not be too hard on myself over a small mistake or for getting something wrong. I believe I can always grow above a bad situation or event in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWork is love made visible and if you cannot work with love but only with distaste, it is better that you should leave your work and sit at the gate of the temple and take alms of those who work with joy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learned that all work is good. The fact that there is dignity in labor suggests that all work should be regarded as essential. I have learnt to love what I do so that what I do will love me in turn. That way love becomes fun.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Having read through the book, I can say that I agree with all the ideas needed to attract what I want to attract in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains exercises that helped me to know where I belong in the kind of leaders that exist, helped me realize my potentials as a leader and the ones to build on. I could also draw the line from where I am as a person to where I really want to be.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I will like to use this medium to thank IIGL for this exposure to knowledge , I love the fact that I am becoming a better me. I feel really charged everyday to complete my studies and create a more positive impact in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10, Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 8<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Law of Attraction<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The Law of Attraction explains succinctly the science of attracting more of what you want and less of what you don\u2019t. The main idea could be captured as applying basic principles to attracting to my life whatever I give my attention, energy and focus to, whether positive or negative. Losier provides the missing piece through his clarity through contrast and desire statements worksheets.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The message in this book changed the way I view myself and others. The content is a lot inspiring and practical. I will like to explain some ideas that are personally most important to me as follows:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. It is not your job to figure out where or when your desire is going to come, just put it into your attraction box and leave the rest to the law of attraction.<\/span><\/p>\n

I am currently smiling as I am typing this as this point played out in my life earlier this year . I found my self conversing in a meeting where I never imagined I was going to me but my law of attraction worked out for me. I came across an advert to apply for a United Nations Women\u2019s Shadowing scheme in March this year and I decided to give it a try even when the application process was tough and highly competitive, I was super excited when I was called to participate in the program for a week in Abuja , Nigeria. I was placed to shadow the United Nations Population Fund country representative here in Nigeria Ulla Mueller. That experience expanded my horizon completely about life. I now come to a realization that indeed we attract to a large extent what our desires are.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Saying what you did want felt better than saying what you didn\u2019t want.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is so true because positive words release positive vibes while negative words release negative vibes. I used to be very cautious of my weight that often times I find my self repeating the statement \u201cI don\u2019t want to be fat,\u201d but then I realized I usually get worried when I have noticed I added a little weight or that my clothes are tighter. The law of attraction responded to a positive statement when I changed from \u201cI don\u2019t want to be fat\u201d to \u201cI want to be fit.\u201d That way, I started thinking about healthy lifestyles rather than getting worried about adding weight. I agree that when I make a statement containing the words – don\u2019t, not or no, I am actually giving attention and energy to what I don\u2019t want.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. The distance between your vibration and someone else\u2019s vibration is equal to the amount of resistance (negativity) you feel when you are with me.<\/span>
\nThis statement holds true especially as I have seen it play out as I relate with people. I am attracted to intelligent people , like I can stay all day listening to you when I am really learning, I love to converse and interact a lot, I love to be mentally charged and ignited when I talk to people. I had a neighbor who tried to match make me with her brother because she felt we were a perfect match but I can tell that we weren\u2019t connecting because our vibrations were not alike. But I have a few friends who stay far from me but we have same vibrations and can sustain discussions for long. Indeed when you meet your kind, you don\u2019t have to struggle to connect mentally and emotionally.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. The law of attraction responds to how you feel about the words you use.<\/span><\/p>\n

I can relate this statement to an experience in my former place of work. I got a job as a sales staff in an insurance company. During the period of training, it looked like it was going to be a good time for meeting people and generating leads but that was not the case after training when we were expected to hit our monthly targets. It was really a tough one for us because most of the people we meet do not even believe in Insurance in Nigeria owing to previous ugly experiences. I personally got so discouraged such that even when I make a positive affirmation like \u201cToday is going to be great and I will close a business today\u201d and the like. I still find my attitude towards such statement not in coherent to my belief and invariably the story remains the same; No Sales.Even though my desire was identified, I didn\u2019t give it attention, energy and focus. That explains why there was no manifestation.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Always say yes to money<\/span><\/p>\n

The idea of making more and more money sends sparks to my head, I mean who doesn\u2019t like money? I feel really charged to make my own money by doing what makes me excited about money. From close interaction with people and careful observation, I can tell that money only responds when it is ardently called upon. Saying yes to money means that I have to be disciplined enough to look inwards and strategically harness my talent and energy.I can achieve this by doing the following;<\/span>
\nLeverage on networking marketing<\/span>
\nMake and sell handmade earrings and jewelry<\/span>
\nTake advantage of every competition that will make me earn money<\/span>
\nImprove on my beading skills so I can be contracted to supply<\/span>
\nAdvertise my work on my social media platforms<\/span>
\nBe more consistent in my tailoring classes and learn more online.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. The law of attraction doesn\u2019t remember what vibration you were sending out 5 mins ago, 5 days ago, 5 months ago or 50 years ago.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s only responding to the vibration you are sending out right now in this very moment and giving you more of the same \u2013 I just imagined a scenario where a participant in a oratory competition after tedious hours of practice decides to send out negative vibration just about the time she was asked to present, just because of fear and intimidation. At that point , all hours of practice will be forgotten, and only her present vibration will play out at that point in time either positively or negatively. This has taught me to live with the consciousness that my vibration only responds to what I am sending out at a time, that way , I ought to be sure to only send out positive vibrations.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Take time to appreciate anything, It\u2019s the feeling that is attracted to your appreciation that is important.<\/span><\/p>\n

Appreciation and gratitude are indeed powerful for a strong, positive vibration. As a Christian, I learnt that the best prayers are offered in gratitude to God rather than in complaints and petitions. Gratitude has been shown to make me have more and feel good. I can\u2019t take it away; everyone wants to be appreciated and thanked and I have resolved to show more gratitude to God and people.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The lessons will undoubtedly help me attract the best for myself in life in these ways:<\/span>
\nI will make sure to send out only positive vibrations at every point in time. That way, I take charge of my emotions and external influencers. I will channel my attention, energy and focus to only what I am and appreciating and thanking people will be part of my lifestyle. I will always say Yes to Money and more money and more money by working really hard to make more money. Words are very powerful, I will make sure I use words that vibrates positivity in my head. My beautiful desires will be stored in my attraction box as I prepare my self for manifestation.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThat which is like unto itself is drawn.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying that we attract our kind, we are easily drawn to that which interests us and complements us.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you radiate outward in your thoughts, feelings, mental pictures and words, you attract into your life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Indeed, everything in this life is built twice. First, in our mind, then in our life. Most of our actions are products of our thoughts. We can\u2019t take it away, our thoughts are very powerful.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEvery thought must manifest according to its intensity. The slightest thought of intelligence sets in motion a power in the law to produce a corresponding thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I believe strongly that anything that can be imagined can be achieved. A lot of times I wonder how scientists come up with innovative technologies and complex systems. To think that everyday comes up with even more improved systems.<\/span>
\n\u201cYou are a living magnet; you attract into your life people, situations and circumstances that are in harmony with your dominant thoughts, whatever you dwell on in your conscious grows in your experience.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

If mere thinking can make one go depressed, how much more can our thoughts produce?. Our experiences are simply products of our perceived thoughts and actions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNever expect a thing you do not want, and never desire a thing you do not expect. When you expect something you do not want, you attract the undesirable and when you desire a thing that is not expected, you simply dissipate valuable mental force. On the other hand , when you constantly expect that which you persistently desire, your ability to attract becomes irresistible. The mind is a magnet and attracts whatever corresponds to its ruling state.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying, what you expect is what you get.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Having read through the book, I can say that I agree with all the ideas needed to attract what I want to attract in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains a lot of exercises with invaluable lessons. It helped me to know the right actions to include in my vibrational bubble. I was also able to draw clarity through what I really wanted in my relationship and in life. My desire statement was also reinforced and I was able to draw clear contrast about what I though was right and the ideal guide to attracting all that I need to attract.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I will like to use this medium to thank IIGL for this exposure to knowledge, I love the fact that I am becoming a better me. I feel really charged everyday to complete my studies and create a more positive impact in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10, Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People competently written by Stephen Covey is one book that contains ageless secrets and principles that will guide not just a person but an organization toward success. Covey made sure to open the readers eyes to the power of basic human truths; take responsibility for your life, create your destiny, seek mutual benefit and understanding, and be abundant and always service\u2013oriented.<\/span>
\nThe book is a guide and inspiration to all, as it persuasively shows readers that developing personal effectiveness can guide one on the road to happiness and help lead the changes that will make the world a better place.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People offered timeless principles to guide one towards personal growth and accomplishments. The book is super packed with ideas that personally challenged me to be a better person or the best version of myself. Interestingly, the book talked about Seven Habits, so in that light I will like to pick one idea each that struck me from the Seven habits as:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. Between stimulus and response, man has the freedom to choose.<\/span><\/p>\n

I will say writing on this at this point in time is indeed timely as I had an ugly experience just a day before. I got really frustrated and angered when I couldn\u2019t fix the dress I was making right so I had to lose a couple of times and it still did not come out well. I was very angry about the situation and I permitted that angry state for the rest of the day more so that I transferred it on my fianc\u00e9 who was planning a good time together for us.<\/span>
\nEven though my fellow apprentice begged me to be calm and think through a solution, I allowed my emotions to overwhelm me and ruin my day. Indeed, it is our willing permission, our consent to what happens to us that hurts us far more than what happens to us in the first place. My response to what happened hurt me not just the cause in the first place. Now I have learned and resolved not to allow any body, situations or event take away my self-respect and peace of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Whatever is at the center of our life, will be the source of our security, guidance, wisdom and power.<\/span><\/p>\n

I do agree that in our personal lives, if we do not develop our own self-awareness and do not become responsible for first creations, we empower people and circumstances under our circle of influence to shape much of our lives by default. In that way, we live the scripts of other people\u2019s agenda. This explains why someone can commit suicide because a lover jilted or broke up the relationship, a lady feels she will only be happy and fulfilled as soon as she gets married or a lady cannot make a choice and have to wait for her friends to help her out. I can go over and over to give countless instances where we allow spouse, money, possessions, pleasure, friends, church take the center of our lives. I remember when some ladies spoke to me about joining their group, when I sat down to think about reasons why I should, I couldn\u2019t lay my hands on any that is in line with my personal belief and principles and I am really glad I didn\u2019t yield to pressure and joined them. Indeed, life should be principle\u2013centered, lest we live for other people\u2019s fake praises.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. In relationships, the little things are the big things.<\/span><\/p>\n

This point really struck me because personally, I am more grateful of the little sacrifices. That little show of care when I was down with illness, that little help with the grocery, that little errand here and there, that little compliment, encouragement and motivation goes a long way to tell about your kind of person and how much you value me.<\/span>
\nMost times, people confuse love and care with luxury and feel they can only be recognized and appreciated when they spend a huge amount of money and buy expensive gifts for the other but life has taught us to be more appreciative and grateful of love and care from the heart. I choose to relate with people in that manner.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. An agreement means very little in letter without the character and relationship base to sustain it in spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Very often I ask myself this question; Why do most couples break their vows of fidelity after affirming to \u201cI do, I will, on the alter?\u201d I wonder why promises are broken on a daily basis. It leaves me to discern that words are not enough; we need the will power and strong character to sustain us not to fail. My friend used to say and I agree that battles are fought in the spirit, I will like to add here that decisions are made in the spirit. A man decides on having a loving family long before he gets married. So also, a catholic priest decides on keeping to his vows of chastity long before his ordination. Indeed, decisions are more personal than public and if I have to be a great person in life, I must be disciplined to conquer self.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. The more deeply you understand other people, the more you will appreciate them, the more reverent you will feel about them. To touch the soul of another human being is to walk on holy ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

With my interactions with people, I can say assuredly that seeking first to understand has a great power. It takes a lot of consideration, courage and concern to listen and understand others before judging them. It is very easy for one to conclude another person\u2019s matter from a distance without having the patience to understand what transpired. I have a friend who before I got really close, we all taught he was very proud because of the way he walks and carries himself. Little did we know that he survived a very severe medical condition as a child that affected his spine and made it curve thereby shifting its position, this then affected his walking pattern. I felt really sorry for him when he related his story to me because of the initial perception I had of him. It\u2019s really cheap to just conclude a matter without seeking to understand but it takes a lot of maturity, value for others and courage to deeply understand the other person.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts \u2013 I can use this analogy to explain this point.<\/span><\/p>\n

A machine has different parts that make it complete and if a piece is taken out of the machine, it becomes redundant and useless. It means that things which individually are not great but when added together becomes very good. The individual components added together forms a very efficient whole that disguises the limitations of the individual parts.<\/span>
\nI have worked in a team a good number of times and I can tell that this statement holds true for team work. Just like I have learnt to seek to understand other people, so also, I have learnt to appreciate the thoughts and opinions of others however unreasonable it might sound at first.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. No other success can compensate for failure in the home.<\/span><\/p>\n

No matter how successful a man is, if he is a failed family man then invariably, he is a failed man. In our world of busy work life, competitive atmosphere, certifications, academic advancement, tourism and development and the like, it can be really overwhelming to push to succeed at other areas of life at the expense of family.<\/span>
\nMost people erroneously believe that success in career will automatically translate to success in the family but how wrong they are. Family time cannot be substituted with anything in the world, presence can never be substituted with presents. If children must be disciplined and feel the love of their parents, parents must deliberately create quality time for them however busy they are. The time not spent with children at their various stages of growth is forever lost as time lost can never be regained. A successful man is one whose family is proud to have him, one who has chosen to provide the necessary support; time, resources, morals, education to family. As a lady, I have consciously decided to make family time a priority.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The ideas gained from the book are what I term; \u201cPowerful lessons in personal change.\u201d They will inevitably help me become an effective and efficient person as thus:<\/span>
\nI will never allow situations, people or events take away my peace of mind. I am solely responsible for the decisions I make and how I respond to situations. I have chosen to respond in the most sane and peaceful way. I will center my life on correct principles \u2013 biblical principles and deep Christian living. This will indeed help me create a solid foundation for development in terms of security, guidance, wisdom and power. I believe that the bible contains deep, fundamental truths that will guide me in taking decisions in life.<\/span>
\nI quite agree and assert that life is more private than public, all of my decisions, God \u2013 seeking, thoughts and personal development goals are such that should be won in silence and private living lifestyle. Family time precedes any other concern, my husband and children in the near future will enjoy my time, care and attention. Because I believe this will translate to success in other areas of life. I have decided to listen more and take less. In that way, I will be more open to understanding the concerns and pain of others.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no real experience in all this world which can be separated from right living.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying, living right saves us from a lot of troubles and challenges in this world. Though, it might be tough to keep up with the right standards but I know for sure that right living pays off either now or in the long run.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you are shouts so loudly in my ears, I cannot hear what you say.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In our world today, we have a lot of people who do not practice what they preach. Someone can be very fluent in speaking and doling out instructions but might not even do as said. Indeed, character is what you do when no one is looking at you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor every thousand hacking at the leaves of evil, there is one striking at the root.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

All of our actions, words and intentions stem from our mindset (our inner thoughts), if you think evil, you breed evil but if you think good, you breed good.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Our world is evolving very fast with advanced technology and innovation. It behooves a human to think and operate on the same level with our ever-changing world. We cannot afford to be left behind in the change and tide of events.<\/span><\/p>\n

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then is not an act, but a habit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Habits are built over time, if you continue to practice and entertain laziness, you will be lazy, if you continuously uphold honesty, you will be known as an honest person, if you consciously make out time to pray everyday,you will become prayerful. Habit is built overtime and as Horace Mann describes it, \u201cHabits are like a cable.\u201d We weave a strand of it every day and soon it cannot be broken.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This life has taught me that I need to be deliberate about making progress. Life cannot be lived to fate and mere wishing. If you earnestly seek something, you go all out and pay the price to get it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThings which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Prioritizing sets the tone for organizing one\u2019s life. Matters which are urgent and important should be handled first before any others. This way time is well managed and growth is exponential.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is more noble to give yourself completely to one individual than to labor diligently for the salvation of the masses.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As humans, most times we enjoy the praises of people. We feel good when others address us as generous. It makes us feel good. But imagine making heavy donations in the church when your neighbor can hardly afford one square meal. If we cannot help those closest to us, then it\u2019s needless to try to make a show of ourselves as generous people.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes when I consider what tremendous consequences come from little things, I am tempted to think; there are no little things.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

If little things make the big difference, then I quite agree that there are no little things. A little sleep, a little folding of hands, a little gossip, a little flirting could cost one a lot. Nothing in life should be taken for granted,<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have so much to do today, I\u2019ll need to spend another hour on my knees.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The effectiveness of Prayer in the life of a Christian cannot be overemphasized. The greatest battles in a man\u2019s life are fought and conquered spiritually. I always acknowledge God as the source of my strength, the provider of grace and the sustenance of my life.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Having read through the pages of the book, I can say I agree with all the powerful ideas shared in the book that will help me be an effective person.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

For every discussion on the outlined \u201cHabits,\u201d is an application suggestions page for the reader to either practice or internalize. The exercises made the book a great read for me as they kept me in constant reminder of how much more I need to do to be a more productive person.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I will like to use this medium to thank IIGL for the experiences, knowledge and exposure gained from reading recommended books. I feel really mentally enlarged every day in my studies and I yearn everyday to complete this course.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Goals<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Brian Tracy in his well written book GOALS seeks to help people with ideas on how to get everything one wants in life faster than it was ever thought possible. The ideas contained in this book will help to propel one from mere wish to reality. The writer always reiterated \u201cWrite down your goals, make plans to achieve them and work on your plans every single day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I have a million and one ideas in this book that has helped to shaped my life better and make me a more organized and deliberate person. I will like to share some of these ideas that were personally most important to me as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. A person of average intelligence with clear goals will run circles a genius who is not sure what he or she really wants.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is really true that while some people just live their lives and wish that it gets better, others are more deliberate about strategically working on a well articulated plan to make well defined progress in life. I recently saw a list of what I wrote out to achieve 3 years back and I felt excitement in my heart that I had accomplished 75% of them. With clear goals in life, I can tell that it helps me to make good decisions that will work me to work in line with accomplishing my goals. Life gets easier and even more interesting with getting more and more accomplished over a defined period of time.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Life is lived from the inside out<\/span><\/p>\n

While I read this, I thought about my core values, principles and attitudes and I couldn\u2019t agree less. This statement gave me a deep insight to how and why I react to other people however unpleasing they had been. A heart that is filled with love will give love even when hate is returned. I recalled a bitter experience I had in school ( during my university days) in my 200 levels when I had an accommodation issue, getting a place to squat was even a problem and I hoped that my close friend will help me out since she has a place but I was disappointed that she didn\u2019t help me out. Even though it was really painful to be treated that way, I never took it to heart but reacted with love such that I gave her the best of support and company during her wedding years later. Indeed our lives radiate what we have on the inside. And I will continue to ask God to fill me with his spirit that will reflect his excellence.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. Your subconscious mind functions best with clear goals, specific tasks, deliberate measures and firm deadlines.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is so true! And exactly how my mind works. I have noticed that with a firm deadline in mind, I become restless until I find myself working to accomplish my goal , same goes for deliberateness of purpose , I seem disinterested in people , events, occasions or situations that are not in line with what I know will help in building me. I can\u2019t afford to spend my time with people who are going nowhere in their lives, no matter how nice they are.With clarity of purpose and deliberate measures, life will be indeed easier and enjoyable to live.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Perhaps the best single word in time management is the word \u2018No\u2019. Just say \u2018No\u2019 to any demand on your time that is not the most valuable use of your time at the moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

I was speaking to a group of teenage students some months back and I remembered telling them to learn to say no unapologetically. As a person and a lady, I should know what interests me, what will help me grow and be a better person in life. I can\u2019t say yes to every man that asks me out, I honestly can\u2019t say yes to every party invitation or every job offer.<\/span>
\nI have to be deliberate about what I will use my valuable 24 hours for so I can account for it every night and be happy I used it profitably.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. It is impossible for us to evolve, grow and develop to our full potential unless we face adversity and learn from it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adversity indeed makes a man. There is hardly anyone great in life who have not experienced one form of adversity or the other. Life has never promised to be sweet and pleasing all the time, it comes with ups and downs, good and bad, beautiful and ugly experiences but then only those who have decided to be stronger than their ugly experiences stand the test of time.<\/span>
\nRecently I had a very painful experience where something I was fully ready and prepared to get couldn\u2019t reach me for some reasons. It was really heartbreaking and depressing for me especially for the fact that I had built my life around it. I was tempted and pushed to do a number of ungodly things just to get back at people but thank God for the grace to overcome the temptations and challenges. Now I can talk about what I passed through and be strong to encourage anyone who is going through such. Indeed adversity has the effect of drawing out strength and qualities of a man that would have lain dormant in its absence.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Psychologists generally agree that a \u201csense of control\u201d is the key to feelings of happiness, confidence, power and personal well being.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is not enough to know what\u2019s right to do , self control is the driving force to help me be in check. Self control is what will make me not to eat unhealthy meals, say no to ungodly relationships, tame my tongue, be modest in speech and appearance, say no when it\u2019s necessary to mention but a few. I can tell that if I do not build self control, I will live but a careless life and that is enough to affect my personal well being.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. The more you give of yourself with no expectation of return, the more that will come back to you from the most unexpected sources.<\/span><\/p>\n

I noticed that the more people look out for what\u2019s in for them before they can do anything or contribute, the more they miss out on opportunities. Selflessness is in itself rewarding. I wouldn\u2019t give an excuse when I am invited to do any form of presentation or give a talk to people. My first question would be \u2013 how do I make my presentation better?, how do I impact the life of my listening audience positively. I like to be in places when I can learn and teach too and I love to give my best to it even though it might demand plenty of my time and resources but I noticed something; anytime I offer to serve with no expectation in mind, I feel better, I feel loved and appreciated and I always add to what I already know. How much more can I ask for?<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The ideas picked from this book will undoubtedly help me to be a more deliberate and organized person. My mind is already in tune with achieving my set goals. This I can realize by?<\/span><\/p>\n

Being clear about what I really what and will love to achieve within a set time. I will always say \u201cNo\u201d unapologetically to people, events and activities that are not in line with my goals<\/span>
\nI would always radiate love and peace from within however the unpleasant situation surrounding me. My life will be lived selflessly to help build lives and influencing people by way of giving my best in talks and presentations. I will always remember to live a life of temperance and modesty as self control is key in helping me realize my goals. I will continuously thank God in every situation and learn to grow from any adversity that comes my way.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they are important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This book is enriched with meaningful quotes. I got really captured by some of the quotes and fell in love with them. I will like to share some of them below<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe great thing is this world is not so much where we stand , as in what direction we are moving.\u201d Oliver Wendell Holmes<\/span><\/p>\n

Indeed direction of purpose is what distinguishes fulfilled people from mediocrity. Life should be lived with purpose and not just as it comes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA man as a general rule, owes very little to what he is born with \u2013 a man is what he makes of himself .\u201d Alexander Graham Bell<\/span><\/p>\n

I can\u2019t agree less with this quote, life does not entertain excuses but works with one who is ready and willing to rise above what seems to be called challenges and shortcomings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one can make you feel inferior without your consent.\u201d Eleanor Roosevelt<\/span><\/p>\n

I believe that we give people a module of how to treat us. If you show self love, people treat you with love, if you act intimidated, people will not value you, if you show confidence, people will take pride in you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe unexamined life is not worth living.\u201d Socrates<\/span><\/p>\n

It does pay to do a self evaluation once in a while, find out what has been done well, what one is doing right and what needs to be done, especially as it helps to give a sense of importance and fulfillment<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTo have more, you must first be more.\u201d Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe<\/span>
\nThe best things in life actually happens to people who are prepared to get it, no body just wakes up and decides to participate in world Olympic competitions with the world bests and expects to beat them. Things do not work by mere wishing. Success always tilts towards the most prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTime slips through our hands like grains of sand never to return again. Those who use time wisely are rewarded with rich , productive and satisfying lives.\u201d Robin Sharma<\/span><\/p>\n

One thing that God has blessed everyone equally with is time. The rich, the poor, the mighty, the politicians, and all . The same 24 hours goes for all. It\u2019s only wise to make productive use of the time God has blessed us with.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCourage is rightly considered the foremost of the virtues, for upon it all others depend. Winston Churchill<\/span><\/p>\n

Fear is and always has been , the greatest enemy of mankind. A man of courage can rise above all obstacles and dare the impossible. Courage is one virtue that makes a person stands out.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This book s well written, with clarity and explanations . I agree with everything written in the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book GOALS is a practical book written with exercises for every chapter. The exercises helped me to do a quick check of my life and find out areas of weakness and improvements. It also helped me to set my personal goals and I will be sure to revise and work towards achieving my goals.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I will like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL and her board of directors for this golden opportunity to develop my self by way of reading and growing in the knowledge gained. I must add here that the lessons from my study have kept me on toes with my goals in life. I eagerly work to get to the last phase of my study.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nonviolent Communication<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book, Nonviolent Communication is an eye opener to ways to connect with people without criticism and insult. Dr. Marshall in this book exposes the secret to successful communication by deepening our sense of personal empowerment. Nonviolent communication provides an easy to grasp, effective method to get to the root of violence and pain peacefully. Even as it helps to reduce hostility, heal pain and strengthen professional and personal relationships. Reading this book enlightens the reader with skills to improve the quality of relationships, deepen one\u2019s sense of personal empowerment and promote effective communication.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This book is a must read for anyone who values people and relationships. The lessons therein are enormous and are mostly of great relevance to me and in my interactions with friends, family and colleagues.<\/span><\/p>\n

i. If readers have a sincere desire to make life miserable for themselves, they might learn to compare themselves to other people<\/span><\/p>\n

What a subtle way to live a miserable life!. Comparing ourselves has never done anyone good but only destroys our self-esteem and inert potentials. It makes us feel less of ourselves and demeans our God given potentials. Comparing people is one known way to destroy relationships. While reading this part of the book, I couldn\u2019t help but remember a toxic relationship I was into some years ago. To say that my friend then was annoying was the least, he was fond of comparing me with all the ladies he has known in his life just to make me empathize with him and agree with anything he says however unpleasing or ungodly. Not to mention his unsupportive nature and selfishness. But I am glad I left that toxic relationship .I can\u2019t stand being compared to other people. I am uniquely and wonderfully made and I have a very good sense of self-esteem.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. When we give from the heart, we do so out of the joy that springs forth whenever we willingly enrich another person\u2019s life.<\/span><\/p>\n

How well can giving be described than an act that benefits both the giver and the receiver. The receiver enjoys the gift without worrying about the consequences that accompany gifts given out of fear, guilt, shame or desire for gain. It goes without saying that there is nothing lost with giving from the heart but a lot is gained. That feeling of putting a smile on someone\u2019s face is something that cannot be explained. It sprouts from a heart that loves and cares and have a long lasting effect on healthy relationships.<\/span><\/p>\n

This reminds me of a time my friend and I bought food stuffs for a widow in our church. The woman couldn\u2019t believe her eyes and was so overwhelmed with joy. She revealed she had been thinking of how the family will feed the next day because she had nothing left in the house. I felt very happy that I affected somebody\u2019s life positively. I cannot agree less that givers benefits from enhanced self \u2013 esteem that result from contributing to someone\u2019s wellbeing.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. If we express our needs, we have a better chance of getting them met.<\/span><\/p>\n

This has a lot to do with valuing our needs. I believe that if you value your needs, you will express them and people will have no choice but to respect what you value. This might sound strange to a typical African woman who was trained to be docile, calm and quiet and build her values around a man. In a traditional African setting, women are told not to have needs, choices , ambition because as soon as they get married, their husbands decides what should or shouldn\u2019t be in their lives. Having learnt that expressing my needs will help me get them, I have resolved not to be shy about expressing my self, needs, wants and the like because if I don\u2019t value my needs, others may not either.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Rather than put your \u201cbut\u201d in the face of an angry person, empathize<\/span><\/p>\n

I have noticed that when people are angry, they become irrational and very annoying. At that point, it takes a lot of wisdom and discretion to calm them down and give them a bit of sense. Trying to shout back and make annoying statements will only aggravate a matter. Recently I had an argument with my friend, I was really feeling frustrated and pissed because he vehemently disagreed with my opinion which I thought was the best option I had. At that point I was already vexed and shouting and didn\u2019t even want to hear him out but I appreciated the way he handled the matter. Instead of shouting back and using insulting words he simply said \u201ccalm down dear, I understand exactly how you feel and that\u2019s because you think your opinion is best but I want you to know that I mean the best for you, so please reconsider and have a change of opinion.\u201d With that, I could tell he spoke out and love and concern and I of course reasoned along with him. The use of empathy is really very powerful. I totally agree that the more we empathize with the other party, the safer we feel.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. The most dangerous of all behaviors may consist of doing things \u2018\u2019because we are supposed to<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t help but ask myself how often do I feel guilty for failing to fulfill other people\u2019s expectation of me?\u201d I totally agree with the author that there is a world of difference between doing something for others in order to avoid guilt and doing it out of a clear awareness of our own need to contribute to the happiness of others. It is simply a difference between a world filled with misery and a world filled with play.<\/span><\/p>\n

This particular point really challenged me to consider the intent behind every action. If only people will act out of a longing to add beauty to lives rather than to just to do what everyone is doing, the world will be a better place. This reminds me of some of my colleagues attitude where I worked. It happened that one of us was getting married and it was agreed that we buy the same kind of wrapper to sew for the occasion but while some few bought happily , others bought grudgingly just to flow with the crowd and to avoid been called names.<\/span>
\nThere is really no way to describe the feeling of contributing to the happiness of others.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. When we give people labels, we tend to act in a way that contributes to the very behavior that concerns us, which we then view as further confirmations of our diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n

People tend to act based on what is expected of them. Call a boy bad and he wouldn\u2019t disappoint your expectation, call a girl dependable and respectful and be sure to get her prove herself. Labeling people not only confirms our diagnosis but also consolidates on a behavior. I taught in a school where some group of boys were labeled bad and recalcitrant by the school principal and teachers and all counseling attempts to get them to behave well proved abortive as they got even worse. It was clear that those group of students enjoyed the attention they got from both students and teachers and so didn\u2019t want to turn a new leaf.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. People often need empathy before they are able to hear what is being said<\/span><\/p>\n

There is no better way to get people to talk and feel loved than to empathize with them especially in their trying times. I fully appreciated this statement when I got talking with a military friend of mine who was posted to work in a village but is going through a lot of challenges as regards welfare. I had good reasons to empathize with him and I could hardly believe he could trust me enough to be so open and tell me all the challenges he is going through and even some personal and family problems. Empathy is indeed a good way to get people to talk and as well listen.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The lessons I have learned will no doubt help me in my daily personal life and in creating a better world as explained thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

I would appreciate the uniqueness in everyone and try as much as possible to understand people from their different points of view. Having learnt that making comparisons of people makes them feel miserable, I would do well to be very understanding , tolerant and accommodating as I relate with people.<\/span><\/p>\n

Giving comes from the joy and beauty it adds to our lives as we improve others. That feeling of putting a smile on someone\u2019s face is something I can\u2019t describe. I have learned to be selfless and cheerful in giving. Giving should also come from my heart filled with love.<\/span>
\nI will always be expressive of my needs and as well be responsive of the needs of others. That I can practice without feeling I have to act as the society demands.<\/span><\/p>\n

I will always empathize with people especially in their trying or challenging times. This can help me in terms of helping others when the need arises. This will help me and the other party feel secure and safe. All actions will sprout from the desire to show love and contribute to the happiness of others rather than just meet other people\u2019s expectation.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they are important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contained helpful quotes from great minds that added deeper sense to the author\u2019s message . Some of them are explained as follows:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cObserving without evaluating is the highest form of human intelligence.\u201d<\/span>
\nIndian Philosopher Krishnamunti<\/span>
\nWhat a wealth of wisdom this statement offers in our world today where we are so quick to analyze, judge and condemn. It show shows a deep sense of human intelligence when we can only observe things the way they are and appreciate their uniqueness rather than condemn, compare and judge. Human intelligence is far more deepening that what we think.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeople are disturbed not by things, but by the view they take of them.\u201d<\/span>
\nEpictetus<\/span><\/p>\n

I totally agree that what others do may be the stimulus of one\u2019s feeling but not the cause . We live in a world where it is almost impossible not to be pissed by people or circumstances around \u2013 annoying comments, disappointment, unpleasant situation, fraudsters, hypocrites, lack of money and the likes. Most of what stimulates negative emotions in us. It therefore behooves on us to always be in the right behavior regardless of what\u2019s happening around us. The view we take of things indeed get us disturbed not by the things themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe capacity to give one\u2019s attention to a sufferer is very rare and difficult thing, it is almost a miracle. It is a miracle.\u201d Simone Weil<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement is really deep and challenged me as a person. How often do I give attention to people in need? How empathetic am I? how much of selflessness have I displayed?. Life is indeed so beautiful when people can tell that when they need our attention, we shall be willing to give. I have learnt to show care, help and selflessness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will they think of me? Must be put aside for bliss.\u201d Joseph Campbell<\/span><\/p>\n

The statement; What will they think of me has led a lot of people to untimely graves, ungodly relationships, marital frustration and an unprepared future. It goes without saying that most often ,we ought to be deaf to the world and believe strongly in a convinced spirit and a determined heart. No matter how far we have gone the wrong way, we can always go have the right way.<\/span><\/p>\n

Let us become the change we seek in the world. Mahatma Ghandi<\/span><\/p>\n

If we want the world to change, we must be the change we seek. It\u2019s rather unfortunate that in our world today, we are quick to talk about how morals and values are deteriorating faster and decency is no longer taken pride in, but we fail to realize how in our own ways, we have failed to make efforts however small in sanitizing our world. I challenged my self with these questions when was the last time I called teenagers together to talk to them about the dangers of engaging in premarital affairs, how often do I take the lead in organizing street sanitation? How much of volunteering work have I engaged in?.<\/span>
\nI can go on and on, I believe that I can make a positive impact in my world no matter how little it may seem.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I took my time to read through the book and I can say clearly that the book is written in simple clear English Language and has helped me replace my old pattern of thinking to being a respectful, attentive and empathic person. I can gladly say that I agree with all the points and suggestions raised by Marshall Rosenberg in the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This is a great book teaching a compassionate way to talk to people. The book contains exercises that helped me to determine my proficiency at discerning between observations and evaluation and also helped me to be clear about my expression of requests. The results of the exercises were quite helpful and invaluable as I could see myself playing out in the revised exercises.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I would like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL family for helping be structure my mind positively by the help of books. I must say I learnt a lot from reading the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and 1 is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Unlimited Power<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book Unlimited Power is a book that guides you through personal development. It is enriched with technologies, strategies, skills and philosophies that will empower you to change your life for the better and also develop better rapport with people. In the book, Anthony succinctly reveals massive, focused and congruent actions that leads to overwhelming results.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The lessons from the book are so invaluable and actually got me swallowed up in thought. I will like to share a few of the ideas that were most important to me.<\/span><\/p>\n

i. Action is what unites every great success<\/span><\/p>\n

It is not enough to just have knowledge about what to do at every point in time. It is best to act. And acting should be done right away. This brings the memory of a shadowing scheme I participated in organized by the United Nations Women Nigeria, March 2020. As soon as I heard about the call for applications, I quickly sprung into action by sending my own detailed application and was so excited to be selected among the thousands of applicants. My participation in the Scheme exposed me to meeting and interacting with a lot of experienced professionals and learning about what they do. I got to be part of this experience because I acted fast from the knowledge I had. Indeed, Knowledge is only potential power in the hands of someone who knows how to get himself to take effective action.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Nothing has any meaning except the meaning we give it.<\/span><\/p>\n

My appreciation of this statement stems from my personal experience in relating with people. It is true that two different people can have different thoughts and interpretation of the same thing or concept. With this understanding, I have grown to empathize and be more approachable. This way, I can simply excuse people for their seemingly wrong interpretation of any situation. This has made me appreciate people more in their varied uniqueness.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. The only people without problems are those in cemeteries.<\/span><\/p>\n

While reading this, I had a lot of thoughts in my mind asking questions like \u201cHave there been any time in my life when I felt like death was even better?\u201d The answer is a big YES.<\/span>
\nLooking back to how I was able to overcome some pressing challenges in life with the help of God, I have now developed thick skin with the firm belief that there\u2019s no challenge that will weigh me down. Indeed, problems are everywhere and I shall continue to overcome as I move on in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. I am convinced that one of the greatest problems in education is that teachers don\u2019t know the strategies of their students.<\/span><\/p>\n

They don\u2019t know the combination to their students\u2019 vaults. As a teacher in Nigeria, I can categorically say that this statement is correct. Most often than not, the syllabus is designed to only teach the geniuses, no one pays attention to the slow learners who can learn differently.<\/span>
\nI can frantically say that in my years of teaching, I have come across different students with their unique learning styles. I have seen a student who got an E in class work but an A in practical. Also, students who appreciates when there are charts or specimens in class so they can relate to what is been taught. Having read the part of this book that talked about Kinesthetic, Visual and Auditory learners, I have resolved to be more flexible in delivering my lessons so as to accommodate every learning styles of my students\/ learners.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. The best way to learn is not to observe but to do.<\/span><\/p>\n

It goes without saying that learning by doing is one sure way to evaluate level of understanding or mastery of any thing. It happened that at the point of reading this book, I had a situation I could relate to clearly explain this point. I recently had a baby (first baby) and as my culture demands, my mum will have to come take care of me and the baby for a period of time. During her stay, I always sit to observe how she baths the little boy and I usually imagine he was just going to slip through my hand because of how small he was at that time. It felt really easy to bath a little baby until my mum asked me to try after a week and I couldn\u2019t believe that what seemed easy was pretty difficult for me. It took a lot of time for me to get accustomed to bathing a baby. You see, anyone can just sit somewhere and yell \u201cthat\u2019s pretty easy,\u201d until it is time to do. I quite agree that the best way to learn any thing is to do and continue to do and improve on what you do.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. The three letter word \u201cbut\u201d when used unconsciously and automatically can be one of the most destructive words in our language.<\/span><\/p>\n

I can\u2019t agree less with this statement because I have seen anger built up, emotions change, disappointment smelled, fear gripped with the utter mention of the word \u201cbut.\u201d Personally, I get taken aback and restless when I hear a commendation with a \u2018but\u2019 in it. No matter how much praises I receive from someone, I don\u2019t get pleased if there are reservations one way or another and I can tell other people feel so too.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. The strongest bones on the planet belong to vegetarians.<\/span><\/p>\n

On eating right, I do agree with this statement. Most times we consume a lot of food that eventually produce too much toxins in our system that doesn\u2019t get cleansed. In Nigeria here, we have this belief that consuming lots of meat is a sign of wealth but now I have learnt that consuming excess of these protein is not healthy for the body. I have realized that it doesn\u2019t cost much to live right and eat healthy.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The aforementioned ideas will ultimately help me in life. I will like to state specifically that;<\/span><\/p>\n

I am now more conscious of my eating pattern, I tend to calculate the number of calories I consume and drink lots of water.<\/span><\/p>\n

People have different ways they look at a matter or judge any situation so rather that complain about their methods or be repulsive, I will see a meaning to their thoughts. That way, I am able to be more appreciative of others.<\/span><\/p>\n

As a teacher, I will be sensitive to my learners\u2019 style of learning and improve on my teaching methodologies to accommodate all.<\/span><\/p>\n

I will put in more efforts into doing or learning a thing rather than simply observing and procrastinating.<\/span><\/p>\n

I will be conscious enough to replace the word \u2018but\u2019 with other conjunctions when discussing or sharing a point with others.<\/span><\/p>\n

The phrase Act Now will be a pointer and a reminder to be fast about taking an action and will keep me on my toes at every point in time.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they are important to you.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book Unlimited Power is one book that is engaging with rich quotes. I find a lot of those quotes thought provoking and I will like to share few of them<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe great end of life is not knowledge but action.\u201d<\/span>
\nThomas Henry Huxley<\/span><\/p>\n

It is not enough to just know, it\u2019s best to act upon the knowledge that has been built.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a funny thing about life; if you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it.\u201d<\/span>
\nW. Somerset Maugham<\/span><\/p>\n

Life brings to us what we most desire and attract. Only a mediocre mind settles for just anything.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is the mind that maketh good or ill, that maketh wretch or happy, rich or poor.\u201d<\/span>
\nEdmund Spenser<\/span><\/p>\n

The state of the mind helps define any situation to rather elate us or make us feel awful.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood timber does not grow with ease; the stronger the wind, the stronger the trees.\u201d<\/span>
\nJ. Willard Marriott<\/span><\/p>\n

Life is full of challenges and overcoming these challenges makes us braver and stronger for the next.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t find fault, find a remedy.\u201d<\/span>
\nHenry Ford<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s easier and common to find people whine and complain about a bad situation and not do anything about it. The time we take to complain and find faults can be used productively in seeking out a solution.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no expedient to which a man will not go to avoid the real labor of thinking.\u201d<\/span>
\nThomas Edison<\/span><\/p>\n

I suppose this is why we are quick to assume rather than get to discover a thing and be sure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you could only love enough, you could be the most powerful person in the world.\u2019<\/span>
\nEmmett Fox<\/span><\/p>\n

Love is the greatest of all virtues, the Bible describes that it covers a multitude of sins. Sincere and brotherly love will make the world a better place to live.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo what you can, with what you have, where you are.\u201d<\/span>
\nTheodore Roosevelt<\/span><\/p>\n

You don\u2019t necessarily need to be in possession of so much before you can add value. Your little coming from a heart that seeks to help can make the big difference.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLife is not a static thing. The only people who do not change their minds are incompetents in asylums who can\u2019t and those in cemeteries.\u201d<\/span>
\nEverett Dirksen<\/span><\/p>\n

Life is dynamic and only those with dynamic mindset can progress through the hurdles of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTo effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.\u201d<\/span>
\nAnthony Robbins<\/span><\/p>\n

It is important to learn how to relate with people based on their uniqueness and perception.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I read the book page to page and I can tell that what Anthony Robbins thought out are quite truthful and helpful as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book is full of exercises and activities for the reader. I tried to do over 90% of the activities and I can tell it felt like I was in a class with Anthony coaching and scoring me. The exercises were really engaging.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Having read through the book, I don\u2019t have any other thing to comment about but just want to use this opportunity to thank Deb Rosen, Michael Lightweaver, Kathleen Oweegon , Felix Iziomoh and all other students of IIGL. I feel empowered everyday as I move on with my reading.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This Child Shall be Great<\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This child will be great is a memoir of a remarkable life by Africa\u2019s first woman president \u2013 Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. In the book, Sirleaf shares the story of her rise to power, including her early childhood; her experiences with abuse, imprisonment, and exile; and her fight for democracy and social justice.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I learned a lot while reading the book. I was especially challenged to think big and be disciplined to rise through challenges to the top. I wrote down some ideas personally important to me and will like to share some as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. One aspect of traditional African culture I hope my countrymen will never lose, is the awesome support of the extended family system.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is very true, I can tell that as a Nigerian, we have this belief that a child does not belong to the parents alone so the whole community also shares a responsibility in training and guiding a child. Right after giving birth, we have the culture of the baby\u2019s grandmother come stay with the family of the new birth for a while and help the new mother in tendering her young. The child grows up in the midst of other people; relatives or neighbors and learn the predominant practice, norms and culture. This support system is a blessing to every family as you are sure that even in your absence your child is well taken care of. I personally enjoyed this support when I had my two kids. My mother came around, my in \u2013 laws and other relatives made themselves available for me. The love and support were massive and I hope this culture never erodes in Africa.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. When push comes to shove and at the end of the day, depend on yourself. No one else is guaranteed to be there.<\/span><\/p>\n

Indeed, there are no guarantees in life. Life comes with several ups and down. We enjoy the good times when it comes and fights through the bad times and I must say as a matter of fact that most often than not, we hold the key to our solutions. We alone decide what to make of any situation. I sat back to think about so many situations in my life where I had built trust on people and anchored on them but in the long run it didn\u2019t turn out as I thought. I recall an incident where I was elected into a leadership position<\/span>
\n(chairperson) in my church choir group some years ago. After the election, I received a lot of opposition and antagonism. Although it was an election, some of the choristers claimed I was relatively new and therefore not capable of handling the position. We went back and forth on this and that was well I realized that a lot of people who claimed to be friends or love me were actually hypocrites. I must say that the supposed love turned to hate and bad wishes. The people who I thought were there for me showed it to my face that they don\u2019t care at all. After all, said and done, I had to resign because the people were very hostile. This is to say that no one indeed is guaranteed to be there for you at the end of the day. I was very honest and objective to my self about the state of things at that point. Now, anytime I remember that incident, I just smile because to me, it was indeed funny that the same people who voted for me never gave me the desired support.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. \u201cI had spent many a night after work studying reports and reading an endless stream of documents to deepen my knowledge of international economic policy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Here, Ellen spoke expressly on how hard work helped her climb the ladder of success. Most often we admire success and fail to acknowledge the hard work, sleepless nights and great effort put in to achieve it. I have come to the point of my life where I no longer sit back and merely admire and wish, I know plan out how to follow through with the hard work that it entails. In 2020, I participated in a Women shadowing scheme organized by the United Nations Women where I was placed to shadow the then UNFPA Nigeria head; Ms. Uller Mueller. The program exposed me to the internal workings in the United Nations office not to talk about the great people I met and associated with.<\/span>
\nI must admit that before I was selected to participate among over 1000 applicants, I put in a lot of work. I even had to ask the help of my friend who had good writing skills to assist me. I spent weeks putting up my write-up as instructed and I can proudly say that my hard work paid off at the end of the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Gone forever are the days of who you know and – Do you know who I am? We now enter a time of; What can you do?<\/span><\/p>\n

The world is fast advancing and times have greatly changed. It is now the era of what you can do rather than the qualifications you have. Simply put, the skills you have developed over time. I have seen the appreciation of skills play out over time and I must admit it pays to be skillful and versatile. In my country Nigeria where unemployment rate is very high, most people are making a living not from their academic qualifications but from the skills they have learnt. It pays again to push oneself and achieve more.<\/span><\/p>\n

I recall a time when school was on holiday and as a teacher, it meant sitting idly at home. But I didn\u2019t, I rather earned extra money from engaging some students in skill acquisition. I taught them basic beading skills and I can tell they appreciated and learnt something different from the usual classroom teaching and learning. As a person, I admire people who are very skillful and I have been challenged to learn a skill that can make me earn extra money and I have decided to engage in tailoring skills.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Time is a luxury we do not possess<\/span><\/p>\n

When I read this statement from the book, the only thing that came to my mind was the word; Procrastination and I quickly remembered a definition of Procrastination I read one time. It says: Procrastination is the arrogant assumption that God owes you another opportunity to do what you had time to do. This definition hit seriously.<\/span>
\nI ask myself how often do I not prioritize my time, how I spend quality time on frivolous activities and how I keep moving things I am supposed to do to a later date.<\/span>
\nThe beauty in making good use of one\u2019s time and placing value on time is that it affords you the opportunity to keep growing and achieving more feat instead of just pushing things on and on. Time is a luxury indeed and I am once more challenged to make good use of it.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. No mother can fully state the importance of her children in her life.<\/span><\/p>\n

I will like to add that no mother can fully explain the love she has for her children. Before becoming a mother, I never understood this until I experienced pregnancy and went through labor. The moment I held my baby in my hands, I experienced a kind of love I have never felt before, the feeling was inexplicable and even till today whenever I look at my kids, I still feel so. Indeed, the love of mother to her children is so deep.<\/span><\/p>\n

When I had my first child; Shawn, I took a 3 months maternity leave and when the leave was over, it was pretty difficult for me to get back to work. At a point, I wished I wasn\u2019t working so I can give my child maximum attention and bonding. Well, I thank God that even with resumption at work I was able to complete 6 months exclusive breastfeeding for him then and every day I pray for God\u2019s blessings and protection on my children. This explains why I find myself sacrificing for my kids.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. The human instinct to survive is powerful.<\/span><\/p>\n

In very dire and unpleasant situations where people have to struggle to survive, people can do unimaginable things, they will do whatever it takes to make it from one day to the next. I have no better way to explain this than narrating the ugly experience I had in Kaduna religious crisis (Northern Nigeria) in the year 2000. It was a very fierce fight between Christians and Muslims residing in the state. I witnessed humans been killed like animals, burned alive or by machete. It was a case of do whatever you can to survive. Because of the severity of the crisis, my father had to arrange for us to go stay in the army barracks with countless number of estranged families and household. Feeding was a huge challenge because we could barely get food to buy and even when you do, they are un-hygienically prepared or heavily infested with houseflies. We had to feed on just anything and that was when it dawned on me that surviving in a dire situation is pretty tough.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The ideas or lessons are invaluable and will help me as thus; I will make valuable use of my time knowing that time waits for no one and will replace thought of procrastination with Do It Now; An Action Word. I will develop myself by learning skills that are marketable in our time. Such skills are computer advanced learning skills as well as advanced tailoring skills. I will make sure to be passionately competent so as to stand out among my equals.<\/span>
\nTo imbibe our traditional norms and morals, I will insist on teaching my children their local dialects as well as the strong morals that has been passed on from our fathers.<\/span>
\nConsistently studying is an aspect I will not trade for anything as it takes constant studying to keep up with our ever changing and dynamic world. Having known that there are no guarantees in life, I will not build my trust around people or things but on God alone. I will give all my motherly love and care to my children, correct and discipline them when I need to and also give them quality time and attention. They will be proud to call me their best friend at all times.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Ellen in her book, used a few quotes and I will like to write on some that captured my attention<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOur dream has the size of freedom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This quote challenges me not to settle for less but to dream big for whatever is imagined can be achieved. I also saw the need to do away with mediocrity and crave to be outstanding no matter the prevailing circumstances.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat begins with the failure to uphold the dignity of one life, all too often ends with a calamity for entire nations.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The dignity of the human life must be protected at all times, and should be a collective effort of all; individuals, government, private sectors and the like.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHome is home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Indeed, there is no place like home, no matter where you go to, or how far you travel, you will always miss the comfort and uniqueness of your own home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA government is not legitimate merely because it exists.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A corrupt government will always be spoken ill off. No citizen of a country with corrupt government officials lives with satisfaction rather most people find ways to migrate to other countries with better living conditions. Such is the case with my country Nigeria where the migration rate is very high because of the poor standard of living.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

After reading the book, I can clearly say that I understood all that Ellen penned down and I have no questions whatsoever. Maybe I should add here that I will love to sit with Ellen some day and have a chat with her because I am greatly motivated by her determined and consistent nature.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

No, there are no exercises for the reader to complete.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I will like to thank IIGL for this opportunity to widen my horizon and learn from world leaders. I will like to say again that I crave an opportunity to sit and chat one on one with Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Leader who had No Title<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Robin Sharma in his book; \u201cThe leader who had No Title presents certain skills and attitudes that allows you to rise to extraordinary success. In his powerful new parable, he offers a story designed to help people from all walks of life to achieve great things.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

One book that kept me learning on a per second basis and also kept my jotter very busy is the book \u2013 The leader who had no title. I must say that the lessons therein are invaluable and very resourceful with that extra touch of relatedness to different spheres of life. I will like to talk about these lessons as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. The best people always seem to have the biggest libraries.<\/span><\/p>\n

I do agree that libraries have always been among the most thoughtful and helpful people. You cannot separate greatness from reading books and one of the ways to check the wisdom of someone is by their love for reading. It could be as passionate as reading your bible to reading and learning from great writers and authors. Suffice it to say that one who reads never grow old and displays a lot of confidence and knowledge in the midst of people. Such a person is never caught unprepared to come talk about anything. I have grown to know and appreciate one of the best things that reading can do for me \u2013 mentally stimulate my mind and also bring me peace. I have also learnt over the years that to be successful in life, it is required to know how to read as reading brings knowledge and invariably intelligence, wisdom and understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n

Growing up, I was drawn to highly intelligent people, I find it a lot fulfilling to sit and listen to people who sound highly intelligent and in all these, I have come to discover a common denominator amongst them \u2013 Love for books. I feel very welcoming and pleased when I enter an office and the first thing that will catch my attention is a large shelf for books. In my mind, I already classified the person as a serious minded individual. Indeed, the best people do not give excuses when it comes to reading.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. You don\u2019t have to have a title to be a leader to be a leader.<\/span><\/p>\n

Waiting to have a title before influencing other people positively sounds like sycophancy to me. The real job is done behind the scene where you have no one to applaud you. It does take a lot of realness, drive and passion to make a positive change and not yearn to be celebrated or recognized and I believe that is the true prize of true leadership. I recall vividly as a teacher how I go an extra mile to impart in the lives of my learners, I went all out of my way to teach them both academic and life skills that will sustain them through life and I never was interested in publicizing my efforts to get some reward or commendation. I believe that the real reward will be seen as it reflects in a change of attitude (positively) in the lives of my learners.<\/span>
\nI never waited to be in the disciplinary committee before I insist on the right thing to be done or wait to be called the counselor before I counsel them just like a mother would her children or wait to be a head before I design programs of interest to my learners. I have recognized that true leadership goes without title and so I have made up my mind to do what is necessary at every point in time.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. In the theater they say \u201cNo role is a small one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In life, we often have reasons to relegate others to the background especially when it seems we are better of than them but how wrong we are. As humans, regardless of status and position, all humans need to be accorded respect of all sorts. I mean we all breathe. No one is small, no effort is insignificant and no role is small. I got to really appreciate the significance of \u2018small\u2019 roles when we had an experience of cleaners going on strike in our hostel in the university. The whole place became a mess, the smell oozing out of the toilets and bathrooms were unbearable and as expected sicknesses like cholera broke out. Now, before then, no one actually appreciated the work of these hostel cleaners until they were not coming around again and we were forced to do it disgruntedly. Suffice it to say that if you really want to check out the hygiene of a place, start with the toilet and it is the lowest paid workers that put in their effort to maintain proper hygiene.<\/span>
\nEveryone then, no matter how small their roles appear to be contributing largely to the success of achievement.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. You will never behave in a way that\u2019s inconsistent with your self\u2013image<\/span><\/p>\n

Self-image is the personal view or mental picture that we have of ourselves. It is an \u2018internal dictionary\u2019 that describes the characteristics of the self. The way you view yourself will invariably reflect your choices in life especially as it has to do with your association and belief.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have always been deliberate about my choices in life as reflected in my choice of friends, spouse, work, social interactions and generally my personality. I have grown to tell myself that I will only create time for profitable things; prayers, study, meaningful discussions, good friends and the like and naturally this has helped me to sieve through and make what I will consider as profitable decisions. And now, I agree that even nature finds a way to align with my utmost desires. The first job I got after schooling was highly paid and I went for it even though I could tell it might be difficult to be accepted but fortunately for me, I passed through the rigorous interview process and got hired simply because I didn\u2019t see myself any less. A Positive self\u2013image has again got me in contact with highly placed and influential people in the society.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Leaders without a title are truly impeccable with the words they use. They don\u2019t gossip, they don\u2019t complain, they don\u2019t condemn and they never swear. The only words they try their best to use everyday are those that inspire, engage and elevate.<\/span><\/p>\n

While I read this part of the book, I couldn\u2019t help but remember one of my directors in a school I worked after my university degree Mr Felix Ariole. I must acknowledge, he is a leader per excellence. He is a very good motivator that charges us to work with love in our hearts. Although, the salary wasn\u2019t much but every morning, he does well to charge us with words from the scripture and encourage us to put in our best at work. I always look forward to his daily charge and I will always remember him with this saying; Hard Work doesn\u2019t Kill. Indeed, words are very good motivation for hard work. Positive words of motivation spoken with love is one strong force that even money cannot compete it and I have learnt to use my words well.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Those who don\u2019t make time for daily exercise must eventually make time for daily illness.<\/span><\/p>\n

The benefits of exercise cannot be over emphasized, aside the good health it promotes, research has shown that exercise can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy as well as reducing the risk of stress, clinical depression, dementia and Alzheimer\u2019s disease. It\u2019s sad that as humans, we neglect exercise with the sole reason that we don\u2019t have the time but the truth still remains that we make out time for what\u2019s important for us. I recall when I was in the university in my 200 level, I started adding up so much weight and I didn\u2019t like it, I wasn\u2019t just proud of it and then it dawned on me that I can put in effort to stay fit and then I started jogging in the early hours of the morning. I was so consistent that I drew attention and admiration and in no time, a lot of people indicated interest to join and the number grew to 10.<\/span>
\nThe consistency, effort and passion I put into the daily exercise was something I still feel good about. I felt so light and I noticed a great improvement in my mood. To say I felt very strong and healthy is to say the least. With that experience, I can say again and again that exercise is necessary to stay healthy. Now that I am married with kids, I must confess that I struggle to exercise now but then there is no good reason not to create time for healthy practices and as I am typing this, I have made up my mind to get back to what I enjoy doing Exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Life waits for no one. It speeds along on its way with your cooperation or without it. Don\u2019t put off until tomorrow what you know must be done today. Tomorrow just might never come.<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement talks about procrastination and while reading it, I remembered a definition of procrastination I read somewhere that hit me differently. It goes; Procrastination is the arrogant assumption that God owes you another opportunity to do what you had time to do. How ungrateful and arrogant that sounds and yet we still keep pushing things again and again to a time that we aren\u2019t even assured of.<\/span><\/p>\n

Personally, I used to be very good at procrastinating such that even when I have ample time to do something, I still push it till the next day which I might end up not doing. But growing up and with the help of books and discipline, I kept reciting a mantra that works for me: Do It Now. So anytime I am tempted to procrastinate, I simply tell myself to do it now.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?<\/span><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

The ideas or lessons are invaluable and will help me as thus:<\/span><\/p>\n

With the full realization that time waits for no one, I have resolved to be conscious at every time and work with this mantra; Do It Now! Do It Now! Do It Now! With this, I will be at my spot at all times and kill the word procrastination.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have made up my mind to make Exercise my daily routine, from something as small as being physically active with house chores and skipping every morning just inside my compound. I have realized that it takes nothing but self-discipline to stay physically fit and active.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have resolved to choose my words carefully; only think before I speak and speak only to encourage or correct knowing fully well that words can either make or mar a person\u2019s day.<\/span><\/p>\n

I shouldn\u2019t wait to be called this or that before I act well as I do. Titles are just words put together and I cannot be limited by just words because the talents imbedded in me to make a positive change in my world have nothing to do with titles and I can start with leading myself.<\/span><\/p>\n

I see myself as great, someone to be reckoned with, someone with mighty potentials with global voice and recognition. A Super brain and an influencer and I have no business with acting and thinking less of my great potentials.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have resolved to have and show respect and consideration to everyone regardless of social class or status; to be fully appreciative of people\u2019s unique potentials and abilities and not look down on anyone whatsoever, as nobody is born small.<\/span><\/p>\n

To keep up with the growing pace in the world, to be a force to reckon with, to feel good and bright at all times, to excel positively in thoughts and actions, I must learn to be consistent in Reading. My must treasured assets should be the books I have read and how the lessons I have picked have helped to influence my life positively.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

One book that is enriched with interesting and enlivening quotes is this book. There is hardly a page or two you read without coming across a well thought out quote to help you align with your thoughts.<\/span>
\nI will like to share some of the quotes that really sparked my interest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe days come and go like muffled and veiled figures sent from a distant friendly party but they say nothing. And if we do not use the gifts they bring, they carry them silently away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Indeed, time waits for one, and as we grow, we learn lessons we encounter in life. Life comes with challenges, ups and downs, good and bad experiences and the beautiful and ugly ones as well. The onus is on us to pick the lessons therein and keep up with the daily struggles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf everyone would sweep their own doorstep, the whole world will be clean.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

We are so quick to condemn other people, talk down on people in government and blame everyone else for things not going on well, when we fail to look inwards and see where we are not getting things right ourselves. If everyone will start with the big question;What can I do to make things right? And stop pointing the blaming fingers on others, I am certain we will have little problems to deal with in our world today.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly the mediocre die always at their best. Real leaders are always improving and raising their ban on how superbly they can perform and how quickly they can move.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In anything one finds doing in life, there is always room for improvement; from something as simple as making a meal for a family to learning a simple skill, there is always something more to learn. It is only a lazy mind that will sit and be comfortable with what him\/her already knows and refused to improve. For every skill in life, if you fail to upgrade, in no time you will be left irrelevant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets as Michel Angelo painted or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The Bible have instructed and guided that whatever thy hands find to do, do with well and in no time, you will sit with kings. The fact still remains that it takes a heart of love and passion to work dedicatedly and I always challenge myself with this question; If I don\u2019t have time to do it well, what time do I have to do it again?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe yourself. Everyone else is taken.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In our world today, it takes a lot to stand out and keep up with what you believe in. it is indeed a huge accomplishment to be yourself in a world that is trying to make you something else.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMoney, influence and position are nothing compared with brains, principles, energy and perseverance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There are things money cannot buy and these are the things that stand the test of time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat doesn\u2019t kill you makes you stronger.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In life, I have had experiences that kept me perturbed, troubled and depressed and I can say that now that I have overcome them, I feel stronger and better prepared for any future challenge of such.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

This book is one that came with so many lessons. His unique method of delivering his lesson is quite brilliant and I must say I enjoyed every bit of it and have no reservations whatsoever.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contained a few exercises for the reader to help him or her stay in line and in check and I must say, it was quite helpful and engaging.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so please comment<\/span><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

I will like to use this opportunity to thank IIGL for this engaging opportunity, I want to specially thank Michael Lightweaver who was passionate enough to share his thoughts with us and also Deborah Rosen and all IIGL facilitators for their kind hearts and service to humanity.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A. How interesting was it to read? 10<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]100 Great Business Ideas<\/strong><\/span>
\nAssessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book; \u201c100 Great Business Ideas\u201d is one unique book for anyone looking for a great idea or some inspiration to start a new venture or to grow an existing business. The author, in the book buttressed on 100 great business ideas, extracted from the world\u2019s best companies. These ideas are like fuel for individuals and companies to create value and success. Each idea is succinctly described and is followed by advice on how such an idea can be applied to the reader\u2019s own business situation. It is indeed, a simple but potentially powerful book for anyone seeking new inspiration and a killer application.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains a lot of ideas to move every business or business idea from good to great. Some of the ideas that were personally of great importance to me are buttressed below:<\/span><\/p>\n

i. As business competition becomes increasingly fierce, firms should not only focus on attracting new customers, they should also use rewards to retain existing clients and get more out of them, which will also attract more clients.<\/span><\/p>\n

As a client or a customer, I can tell that rewarding a client feels so satisfying and indeed gladdening. I mean, that feeling of being appreciated.<\/span><\/p>\n

This brought to my memory an event I witnessed some years back when I went to a recreation center on a festive period. It was one of the Muslim\u2019s Eid al Fitr celebration and I decided to go catch fun at a recreation park. While walking round the park, I discovered a decorated space with a banner; Paladin Bread Distributors \u2013 with varieties of bread on display on the table. My curiosity drew me closer to the stand where I watched and realized it was a stand for Paladin Bread major suppliers and retailers. Apparently, Paladin bread decided to give their customers a nice treat that day. I believe that was more than enough to make their customers feel loved and appreciated.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. Create a \u201cculture of innovation\u201d within your organization by giving employees a forum to discuss and evaluate their ideas, and rewarding innovation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Good ideas have no limits, it can come from anyone and from any level in an organization, be it a manager, a security staff or a cook. I worked in a school where every department and section are mandated to do a SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat) Analysis every end of term and session and we all sit in a meeting and listen to the presentation of the various departments and from there, we draw out a communiqu\u00e9 to be implemented in the next term. This approach has proven to be quite engaging and profitable.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. Actively communicate your brand values- what it is that makes your organization and product special and preferable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Being a consumer of food products, I can boldly say that consumers who pay close attention to what goes into their mouths at every point in time often goes for healthier alternatives and are also concerned about the amount of calorie consumed. Such people don\u2019t just buy, they buy because they are convinced.<\/span><\/p>\n

I can boldly say that I am one of those buyers of food products who take time to read the nutrition information of packaged foods and that was what informed my decision to continuously patronize a particular spice \u2013 Ama Wonder Spice. I noticed that their ingredients are naturally sourced like ginger, garlic, bay leaves, turmeric etc., unlike the others that contain a lot of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) which I read have some adverse health effects. The emphasis on Brand Values cannot be overemphasized if any organization can indeed stand the competition of this time.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Developing stylish areas that are decorated and designed to appeal to your target market, even if they do not sell your core products, will reinforce your image and help customers appreciate the distinctiveness of your products and brand.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is not out of place to pay attention to aesthetics and style, as a matter of fact, most customers are first attracted to anything because of the beauty that captured their eyes, it could be the packaging, the use of colors, the neatness of the seller, to mention but a few.<\/span>
\nTalking about style and aesthetics, one bank that takes the credit here in Nigeria is Zenith bank. I want to believe that they budget a lot of money for decoration and this is so evident during the Christmas period. If you are driving along a road where Zenith bank is located, you can see the beauty of the decoration from a distance, the lightening, the sparks, the glam. For anyone who has love for style and decoration, Zenith bank is a sure one to visit as even the surrounding banking area and banking hall speaks volume.<\/span>
\nAgain, I remember when my husband and I wanted to eat out and we weren\u2019t sure the eatery to go to, when we drove to a particular location where there were line up of eateries, our first attraction was the decoration outside of a particular one; it was catchy. Amongst them, was another that was not attractive at all, the art work was shabbily done, the colors were dull and the environment was not looking good at all. I could tell that was more than enough reason to give them poor patronage. So, to give your products a touch of distinctiveness develop style.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. Work at dramatically improving everything you offer the customer: product, service and delivery.<\/span><\/p>\n

To redefine standard, producers must be willing to defy or challenge conventional logic. They should be geared towards stretching themselves, thinking out of the box and providing solution for an identified problem.<\/span>
\nIn our world today, everything and everyone is moving in a fast lane, we tend to have meals cooked within minutes, download in couple in seconds, and just follow shortcuts to get things done really fast. I believe that was what triggered the makers of Gino Tomato Paste in Nigeria here to come up with Tomato mix containing Tomato, pepper and onion blend, they also went ahead to produce Gino Tomato Jollof mix that is readily available for making joll of rice. With this innovation, most people shifted from buying the regular tomato paste to now buying the Tomato mix. That way, they get more value for their money and save more.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Instill a competitive, customer-focused, entrepreneurial culture, understand what your competitive advantage is and then exploit it ruthlessly and continually. \u2013 I want to believe that for every new business, there is already an existing one of same interest. Whether the same or about the same, most often than not, they all target the same customers. And so, every business minded person who is customer \u2013 focused ought to, as a matter of necessity build up a competitive force.<\/span><\/p>\n

As a teacher, I will like to talk about how competitive advantage grossly affected a school I worked in. The school was one of the best in the state, had the best of teachers, facilities, curriculum and takes training and retraining of staff very seriously so most parents and wards took pride in the school and were willing to pay the heavy fees in as much as they saw results in their children but as time went on, the school\u2019s students population dropped drastically such that the school management had no choice but to downsize some of the staff, a lot of re-numerations were cut off and the school standard dropped. This ugly situation can be traced to reduction in the students\u2019 population. About 40% of the students moved to another school, a new one at that. It was discovered that the school gave parents a lot of incentives like school fees discount, a free football academy for interested students, free gymnasium sessions for parents after they have dropped their kids in the morning and scholarships for outstanding students. The new school indeed clearly understood how to beat competition and \u201cstole the show.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. Emotional intelligence is a person\u2019s ability to acquire and apply knowledge from their emotions and the emotions of others, in order to be more successful and lead a more fulfilling life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having learnt that emotions are important in determining a leader\u2019s success and that Emotional Intelligence is advantageous in times of change, pressure and crisis, I can say without mincing words that often times having a high Emotional Intelligence pays out especially when dealing with people. I mean, how do you explain a situation where because of poor anger management, you hit someone hard with an iron on the head and it costs the person\u2019s life. I have learned over the years that the best way to manage myself when I am extremely angry is to do nothing and just give myself time and this has proven to work for me because when the anger eventually douses down, I sit back to analyze what could have gone wrong if I had allowed my emotions at that point to overrule me.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?
\n<\/span><\/strong><\/em>
\nThe ideas I have gathered thus far are invaluable and they will help me as thus;<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learned to put the following big emotions to check always \u2013 Anger, Anxiety and Sadness. With my knowledge of Emotional Intelligence, I have resolved never to allow my emotions overrule me.<\/span><\/p>\n

My brand is what speaks volume, so as a business owner, I will make sure my brand is outstanding, pay attention to the tiniest details and be more customer centered.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have learnt that people are my greatest assets so I will always be keen to get recommendations, advice or suggestions from anyone irrespective of their status, intellectual prowess or academic qualifications.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rewarding those who are part of my success stories will be at the top of my priorities. I will pay attention to incentives especially for my top business customers.<\/span><\/p>\n

One of my watchwords will be; \u201cUnder Promise and Over Deliver.\u201d This way I can be fully assured that my customers have good value for their money.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book contains some quotes with very inspiring meanings. I will like to talk about them briefly below:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIntelligence becomes an asset when some useful order is created out of free \u2013 flowing brain power. Organizational intellect becomes intellectual capital only when it can be deployed to do something that could not be done if it remained scattered round like so many coins in the gutter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Indeed, intellectual capital comes to bare when it is properly harnessed. Evidently, it can be seen proffering solutions to identified problems of all sorts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe greatest challenge facing managers is understanding and driving performance into the future.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Excellent managers do not meddle in mediocrity. They are deliberate about translating today\u2019s thought to tomorrow\u2019s success.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe three most important things you need to measure in a business are customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction and cash flow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When employees feel fulfilled and well appreciated in their various job roles, that will exactly translate to effectiveness and efficiency in service delivery and of course fully satisfied customers. With these two areas well met, profit maximization is guaranteed.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas you disagree with and, if so, why?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The author was very clear and explicit about the ideas he penned down. I don\u2019t think I have any contrary opinion whatsoever.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

The book only contains guides for practical implementation and not exercises for the reader to complete. The practical implementation guides are more or less what anyone can fall back to when the need arises.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so please comment.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I will like to thank IIGL for this opportunity to learn about some secrets in excelling in business. What I have learned is of so much value and importance to me.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and 1 is poor.<\/span><\/strong>
\nA. How interesting was it to read?\u00a09<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nB. How helpful were the contents? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nC. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nD. Would you recommend it to others? 10<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nE. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/strong><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As A Man Thinketh Assessment by Ndefo Chikanso Patricia (Nigeria) 1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book? The main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book is Read More …<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1454","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1454","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1454"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1454\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5563,"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1454\/revisions\/5563"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1454"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}