{"id":2078,"date":"2018-03-26T18:26:44","date_gmt":"2018-03-26T18:26:44","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/iigl-wp\/?page_id=2078"},"modified":"2018-03-26T18:26:44","modified_gmt":"2018-03-26T18:26:44","slug":"dogbo-kofi-fafali-assessments","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/dogbo-kofi-fafali-assessments\/","title":{"rendered":"Dogbo Kofi Fafali – Assessments"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

James Allen is reminding people of the strength of the thought and the benefits one can get from a pure, healthy and encouraging thought. He clearly explains that thought portrays a man. Therefore every man is the image of his thought, the maker of his destiny and the shaper of his environment. In brief he encourages readers to stay firm on their visions and dreams under the canopy of self-control.<\/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 book is divided into seven parts which I consider as ideas to develop.<\/span><\/p>\n

The first important idea: Thought and character<\/span><\/p>\n

The Creator gives man the ability to distinguish the good from the bad. By his thought a man becomes the maker of his destiny, the shaper of his conditions and environment. A man is nothing but his thoughts. That faculty of thinking and reasoning differentiates a man from a beast. But thought instead of being a powerful tool to overcome situations, can destroy a man when it is misused. The author explains that man is the photograph of his thought and thought can be combined to character. Man keeps situations under control when he uses his gifts such as power, intelligence and love. Searching our mind and trying to know ourselves or discovering within ourselves the law of thought is the way which leads to the knowledge of our being. If thought is the builder of character, there is no doubt to conclude that good people are those who have good and pure thought. As thought influences a man’s life and behavior it is advisable to have only useful and encouraging thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

The second important idea: Effect of thought on circumstances.<\/span><\/p>\n

The author declares that circumstance does not make a man, it reveals him to himself. This analysis is based on the fact that, man as the master of his thought, the shaper of his destiny and environment, he can control situations. Every circumstance has a root in man’s thought since it is linked to some vital thought-element. That circumstance develops and puts the man where he is by the law of his being. Some men are eager to improve their circumstance but they are not ready to improve themselves. This is eating cocoa without removing the cover. Every improved circumstance demands a sacrifice. That is why the author says that a man who wants to acquire wealth must prepare to make great personal sacrifices before he can accomplish his purpose. Another explanation about circumstance is shown in three examples given by the author.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the first aspect, he mentioned the case of a poor man who regrets that his surroundings home comfort are not improving. The poor man is blaming his employer for his small wages.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the second aspect, he talks about a rich and greedy man who suffers from disease as the result of his gluttony. He neglects the principle of a healthy life.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the third example, he mentioned the case of an employer who reduces the wages of his workpeople with the intention of making larger profits. When bankruptcy comes, he blames circumstances, forgetting that he is the maker of his condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three examples demonstrate that man is the causer of his circumstances.<\/span><\/p>\n

The third important idea: Effect of thoughts on Health and Body.<\/span><\/p>\n

Our health and body are the reflects of our thoughts. If the bidding of unlawful thoughts can make the body sick, and the command of happy and beautiful thought can cloth it with youthfulness and beauty, a man must have pure and healthy thought if he wants to live a healthy and prosperous life. Like circumstances, diseases and health are connected to the thought. While fearful and sickly thoughts are killing people and damaging the nervous system, strong pure and happy thoughts build up the body in vigor and grace. It is easy to understand that the body quickly receives signals given by the thought. So whatever feeling appears on our face is the result of the thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

The forth important idea: Thought and purpose<\/span><\/p>\n

In this passage it is easy to understand that thought is linked to purpose. To realize something in life, that particular object should be your only purpose on which your thought must be focused. Fixing a legitimate purpose in one’s heart and struggling to accomplish it is the secret behind success.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, doubt and fear are hindrances for the accomplishment of purpose. When the door is open for these two destroyers of purpose, the thought, no matter how healthy it is, becomes lifeless. A man who has fixed a strong and useful purpose in his heart should neither allow his thought to wander nor give way to fear and doubt.<\/span><\/p>\n

For instance a student who is afraid of passing his exams or he wishes that the examination date should be postponed, has already failed because he is not mentally prepared. That means doubt and fear must not be in the agenda of thought if we want to attain our purposes. On the contrary, thought accompanied by purposes becomes a creative force, so he who puts this theory into practice can achieve much and he will become higher and stronger than a bundle of wavering thought and fluctuating sensations. This idea has strengthened my position in reaching my purpose. I don’t pay attention to whatever my friends are saying; I always set my eyes and my thought on the purpose I fix. The purpose can be difficult to attain but with determination and optimism I always triumph.<\/span><\/p>\n

The fifth important idea: The thought-Factor in achievement.<\/span><\/p>\n

The success and failure are the fruits of the thought. A man’s condition can be improved only by himself and not by another man. To add, our sufferings and happiness come from the way we think. These conditions can change or remain unchangeable depending on our will and our thought. Thought can lift somebody high or bring him to the level of animals according to the way he thinks. A rich man cannot make the poor man become rich if the latter is not prepared to get rich. In the same way a strong man cannot make the weak man become strong. Only by our own efforts we are what we are. It simple means none but yourself can change your condition. In other words\u201d your destiny lies in your hands\u201d. This explanation is seen in our everyday life. Instead of waiting for a Messiah to come and change your situation, why can’t you change it yourself?<\/span><\/p>\n

In this line, let us consider the case of African countries which are waiting for donations to be done by western and developed countries. As they wait with their arms folded, they are moving backward in ignorance, poverty and under-development. Like the saying \u201chelp yourself and heaven will help you\u201d I always start whatever I plan with my efforts without relying on somebody or looking for \u201cmanner \u201cto fall from heaven. As I put my efforts in my projects by joining purpose to thought, I get result. So the key word is self-reliance, which is again one of the characteristics of Americans.<\/span><\/p>\n

The sixth important idea: visions and ideals.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dreamers are the saviors of the world. This sentence is understandable and cannot be criticized since it is a truth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Martin Luther King junior dreamt of a democratic America where Blacks will have the same rights, freedom and opportunity like the Whites. His dream paved the way for millions of Americans today and President Barack Obama is the greatest example to quote.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Chinese man Mao z\u00e9 Dong dreamt of a powerful China and today China is challenging USA.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dream is the mother of reality. He who does not dream is a dead living body. Dreams carry out the seeds of achievements. The author is strongly encouraging readers to cherish their visions because what you will be in the future is what you dream of. But it is also good to note that dream is not a wish. Many young men have wishful ambitions. They have quantity of projects but the questions are: Are they willing to pay the price? Are they ready to sacrifice their leisure time, energy or money to fulfill their dreams? Behind every success there is sacrifice. It takes a footballer years of training to reach the level of a star. The result you get is the sum of your efforts and sacrifices. In this way, I adopt the American mentality which is \u201cto dream and dream big\u201d. Whatever I ask Jehovah and whatever I plan in my dream is what I get.<\/span><\/p>\n

The seventh important idea: Serenity<\/span><\/p>\n

Healthy and useful thought cannot be developed in a noisy environment. But a calm mind can foresee future events. Then calmness of the mind can be compared to the jewels of wisdom. Man as the master of his thought must exercise self-control if he wants to influence people or achieve greater success. Calmness of the mind is a change-making element without which man cannot joyfully realize his dreams but all will be vanity and boasting. The book says that a wise man who can control and purify his thoughts can make the winds and storms obey him. According to my comprehension I can conclude that the one who practices self-control is not only a wise man but also a great man because people will listen to him and obey him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The importance of this book is to tell us that man has a powerful weapon which can make him a great man or bring him down depending on the way he uses it. And this weapon cannot be bought in any military shop but it is our thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

When an individual behaves correctly or wrongly, the blame cannot be put on his education but it is due the way he conceives his thought. If our achievements are the results of the thought, and the happiness or sadness which can be read on our face is the outcome of the thought, what should we do if we want to live a fruitful and healthy life?<\/span><\/p>\n

The effects of the thought on our body and health are quick to remark. For example when I’m seeing myself in a big and luxurious house with my future family, I start smiling and that simple imagination puts me in a happy mood for the whole day. On the other side, When I think about what to do to create wealth like Bill gate (USA), Silvio Berlusconi (Italy) or Vincent Bollor\u00e9 (France) among others as compare to my current level of poverty, I become frustrated and I lose appetite because I see in my mind that the challenge is too tough to overcome. From this example it is advisable to have only positive thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moreover many people are mad today because they kept on rehearsing frustrating and negative past events. Medical doctors are in good position to confirm this analysis. Concerning the realization of our dreams and visions, emphasis is laid on the thought. Dream in my own words, is the architect of success. Before an engineer creates a machine or any other tool of technology, he has already dreamt the size, the capacity and the importance of that machine or apparatus.<\/span><\/p>\n

However we note that doubt and fear jeopardize the achievement of our dreams and visions. Therefore they must be excluded from the thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another important lesson to keep in mind is being calm. A noisy spirit and a talking mouth cannot achieve anything. Successful men are those who control and purify their thought. A quiet and calm man commands respect and admiration. He influences his neighborhood because he is seen as a wise man. Then we can agree with the author that calmness is power and self-control is needed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Basing my analysis on the lessons, it is very important for everybody who wants to achieve something great to make good use of his thought. He can control situations, fulfill his dream, become influential and wise.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quote: 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

\u201cHe that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be open\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement is taken from the Bible. That implies, patience hard work and perseverance are the keys which open doors. In our context and according to the text, to know oneself, one has to consider life experiences by joining cause to effect in order to understand why this particular event happened at this time. But true understanding and knowledge shall be reached by means of patience, practice and investigation<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow lucky he is!\u201d \u201cHow highly favored he is!\u201d \u201cHow chance helps him at every turn!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

These statements are the sayings of lazy men and outsiders. More often, people attribute their neighbor’s achievement to luck, chance and favor. They ignore the efforts and courage used by those successful people to fulfill their dreams. If luck, favor and chance exist, they will never draw fortune to their possessors. It clearly means nothing can be obtained in life without effort. Or can somebody declare that successful business men, football stars and singers are lucky men? Success and achievement are the results of hard work, patience and practice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo not see the long, arduous journey, but only behold the pleasant goal and call it good fortune\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement is an encouraging recommendation for the reader. Life is compared to a journey and life circumstances are unbearable and unpleasant. A great number of people encounter difficulties in realizing their dreams. Many experience hard time throughout their careers but the determination to reach their targets strengthens them and at the end, they celebrate their victories by ignoring every tough situation they went through. In the same way a pregnant woman forgets her labor pain soon after giving birth. We have to agree that nothing good comes easy. Keep your eyes on your visions, ignore the hindrances, and then success and joy shall be your reward.<\/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

The author declares that circumstance does not make the man; it reveals him to himself. Can this view point be shared by everybody?<\/span><\/p>\n

The same book declares that circumstance contains spiritual lesson which fosters a man’s growth. In other words, he learns from circumstances, corrects his behavior, and changes his life in order to be a progressive and evolving being. If circumstances can make a man progress, it is clear to think with no doubt that circumstance is a teacher and shaper of character.<\/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

During the reading I don’t discover anything like exercise to complete. The ideas developed are 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><\/p>\n

A sentence draws my attention and strengthens my thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere can be no progress nor achievement without sacrifice,\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I would like to emphasize on the word\u201d sacrifice\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

When we refer to the Bible, the humanity has its sins forgiven through the blood sacrifice made by Jesus.<\/span><\/p>\n

Martin Luther King and his colleagues fought for opportunity of equality and freedom for the Blacks in USA by sacrificing their lives. As result, many black Americans are leading America today in business, politics, sports and in any other field. An IIGL student must sacrifice his time, energy and money if s\/he wants to acquire knowledge in leadership. Many want to be free but they are not willing to sacrifice themselves to obtain that freedom. How can a scientific become famous and influential without sacrificing his time doing research? He who wants to achieve great things must be prepared for great sacrifices as well as lift his thought high.<\/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

Rating<\/span><\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Richard Bach is telling readers in this book that a leader is different from a follower; therefore he must be firm in his decision, without giving up before criticism. He has no limit, he must aim perfection and Jonathan plays the role of a leader.<\/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 first important idea: Aiming perfection<\/span><\/p>\n

This is clearly shown in Jonathan’s passion for flying. He keeps on practicing flying and he is never satisfied with his exploits. He is eager to learn new things, new methods about flying. Jonathan’s attitude confirms that one must not rely on the small experience or knowledge that s\/he has. Practice makes perfect. That implies I will not and I must not stop learning. No matter what I am doing, I always ask myself if I cannot do it better than this. The one is proud of his achievement will never reach perfection but he would rather be overthrown or challenged by a beginner.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The second important idea: Overcoming obstacles.<\/span><\/p>\n

The law in the land of Gulls forbids its citizens to fly in the darkness. This law was neglected by Jonathan. He flies in the darkness despite the fact that he hasn’t an owl’s eyes. He forced himself to overcome this obstacle which the bad visibility of seagulls in the night. Jonathan’s ambition and determination to set a world record in the history of flying takes him beyond obstacles such time and space.<\/span><\/p>\n

Like Jonathan, I don’t let myself be discouraged by situations and doom sayers.When I set a target I work toward it. No matter how tough the situation is I never give up. Because winners never give up. The time can be as hard as rock but I will make it will find my way out. English people say \u201cwhere you are going has nothing to do with where you come from \u201cThe election of Barack obama as the first black president of the United States of America is the proof that obstacles can be overcome. Who is Obama to stand before the Clintons, the Bushs and wealthy and intellectual people of Us? He is an imported African who has no solid root in America but he believes in his dream, he hangs on his purpose and he has changed the history of a powerful country. He is an inspiration to me. Problems are the steps to climb if one really wants to achieve success. Leaders don’t have easy lives, they are misunderstood, they are criticized but at end their view points are shared by those who rejected them.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The third important idea: Humility of Jonathan seagull<\/span><\/p>\n

After experiencing the joy of flying his people want to honored him. They gathered waiting for his arrival. But Jonathan rejected the offer; he refused to be honored as a leader. On the contrary he is ready to learn again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unlike Jonathan, many people prefer to be honored. A true leader is free to accept suggestions, criticism and remarks. Intellectual humility is the way which leads to knowledge. For instance Socrates was a renowned philosopher but he never boast of his knowledge. When people come to him, he takes them other philosophers. To imitate Socrates and more precisely Jonathan, I am never satisfied with what I have or my current level. I will keep on struggling to reach the peak without setting a limit for myself.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The forth important idea: The rejection of Jonathan by his own people.<\/span><\/p>\n

This idea is the opposite of the previous one. Jonathan stand to centre and this case, it expresses shame. The Elders decided to chase him out the Gulls society. Jonathan was misunderstood by his people. This is sign that he has the portray of a leader, an instructor.\u201dGreat men are those who are misunderstood\u201d this saying is very often shown in the life politicians and great people. In my own case I build my success on criticism. When my comrades disagree with a view point that I am supporting it does not make me change my mind. Neither can it stop me. But I consider it like a challenge. At the end those who are honest appreciate my efforts any time I come out successfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fifth important idea: Freedom<\/span><\/p>\n

The seagulls are not free to fly in their own way. They are controlled by laws; they are living in fear, boredom and anger. This constitutes the main reason for death in Gull community. Jonathan is advising his friends to free themselves those handicaps. Freedom as we say it cannot be given by an oppressor but one must fight to obtain it. The other gulls followed Jonathan, they accepted to be banished from their community, they want to be free like Jonathan.<\/span><\/p>\n

In today’s life we cannot achieve anything without enjoying freedom of thought, freedom of expression or any other freedom. Particularly I don’t like being under somebody and receiving instructions all the time. This is different from disobedience and being stubborn. If you are made to become a leader, you must be free to take decision and act accordingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The sixth important idea: love and sharing spirit in Jonathan.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jonathan returns home after being away for a long period. He loves his people and advised them to keep on working on love. He accepts to share his experience with them by acting like an instructor. He can keep those experiences for himself if he wants since he is no more part of the Gulls society. A heart full of love is ready to forgive, to share. Love is advised in our doings. No love, no forgiveness. Loving others is my concern. Especially as a Christian, I like sharing whatever I have with my friends and brothers but I am asking God to increase love in my heart. It is something we say nicely but very difficult to put into practice. And sometimes we love only for interest although the Bible tells us to love everybody including our worst enemies.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The seventh important idea: No limit in learning<\/span><\/p>\n

According to Jonathan there is no limit in possessing experience and knowledge. He came back to teach his people new techniques in flying. Wanting to make his desire an everlasting one, he appointed a new instructor (Fletcher Seagull).That means the students will be supervised by him. Where there is no progress, there is lateness. It is good to set a purpose to attain but that should not be a limit. Jonathan’s attitude is a lesson for me. I often try to go beyond limit. I have passion for learning and there is no limit for me till I die.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Richard Bach is not entertaining readers. There are hidden important ideas which the reader will try to find out. These ideas are useful for us.<\/span><\/p>\n

In life one must set a goal to attain. Ambitions followed by efforts lead surely to success. By targeting perfection and excellence, the way of a leader is traced. In brief somebody who wants to be a leader or a role model for his peers must not stay at one place.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the second aspect we have to agree that there is always obstacle in life but our determination to achieve what e have planned will help us overcome that obstacle. It is also true that the road to success has no shortcut. It is full of problems. That is why no matter what happened to me and no matter how tough the problem is, I refuse to give up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Humility is a rare virtue which is important for somebody who wants to acquire knowledge. It means whatever you possess as information or knowledge, behave like a child, open your heart and learn new things. A true leader is humble, ready to accept suggestions and remarks. However humility is different from humiliation. At one moment or the other, we fill rejected by our trusted friends. We face criticism and our visions and view points are ignored. These are signs of great men. People will not understand you because your view points are different from theirs. A leader is not a follower, so he must not try to please his colleagues.<\/span><\/p>\n

Furthermore, getting freedom is not a simple wish, it is a behavior. Somebody who wants to get freedom must get ready to pay the price. This is what happened to Jonathan. Freedom is the key to a fruitful life. When you do not depend on anybody you are free to plan your life, plan your business and experience success.<\/span><\/p>\n

Love and sharing is difficult for us to show to our friends. Even if we pretend to love, we sometimes love only for interest. Jonathan’s example is reminding us to share our experience with our people and this cannot take place without love. I have to confess that I am working on these qualities in order to be truly happy.<\/span><\/p>\n

The last but not the least, is Jonathan’s strong desire to attain knowledge in its fullness that implies we must aim high. There is no limit in learning since itself is a big and long school.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are any statement 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

\u201cJonathan Livingston seagull\u201d said the Elders<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStand to centre for shame in sight of your fellow gulls!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026for his reckless irresponsibility\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cviolating the dignity and tradition of the Gull family\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

These statements are made by the council of elders to illustrate that Jonathan is punished for not obeying the law of Gulls. He has chosen his own way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe brotherhood is broken\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement is emphasizing that Jonathan is no more a member of the Gulls community. He has no link with his people, he has to go and live on far cliffs like a rejected person.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to learn to fly like that\u201d Jonathan said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jonathan expresses his desire for learning, his pursuit of excellence and perfection. That means he thought there is more to learn about flying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe only and true law is that which leads to freedom\u201d said Jonathan<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement shows Jonathan prefers freedom to slavery. He decided to set himself free and agrees to be outcast. He doesn’t want to be under the law.<\/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

Jonathan doesn’t want to behave like his peers. Neither does he want to hang on beach life nor fight for food. His desire is fly as high as he can.Althought he hasn’t a Falcon’s short wings; he believes in his dream, the dream of perfection in flight. Then flying became his hobby. He prefers flight to food and he was warned by his parents especially the mother. He breaks the tradition according to which a seagull does not fly in the darkness. Jonathan’s ambition is to experience the joy of flying. He discovered the loop, the slow roll, the point roll, the inverted spin, the gull punt, the pinwheel. That simply means he explores flight in all its horizons. He wants to quench his thirst for perfection in flight.<\/span><\/p>\n

Surprisingly, he was punished by the council of elders. Instead of being honored like a hero, he was outcast; he cannot share the same life with the Gulls family. And according to the law in the land of Gulls, an outcast gull never returns home, he is not allowed to communicate with his people. He became a rejected person so he must go and live on far cliffs.<\/span><\/p>\n

But other gulls followed Jonathan and became his students. They want to be free; they want to experience the joy in flying. They are fed up with the law of their society which enslaves them. The fight for freedom has begun and according to Jonathan \u201cthe only and true law is that which leads to freedom\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

What is strange and uncommon is that why should they establish law in animal kingdom? Why can’t an individual be free to satisfy his needs? The law is good and is made to rule a society but when it is unbearable is calls for revolution.<\/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

There are gaps in some sentences left by the author. For example in part three, Fletcher was flying and counting his actions. \u201c\u2026eight\u2026nine\u2026ten and see-Jonathan-I’m running-out-of-airspeed\u2026eleven\u2026I-want-good-sharp-stops-like-yours\u2026twelve\u2026but blast-it-I-just-can’t-make it thirteen and These-last-three-points came without effort\u2026fourteen\u2026aaakkk!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In the same part three, there are gaps to fill. \u201cThen the whole formation rolled slowly to the right, as one bird changes the level flight to the inverted spin to another level, the wind whipping over them all.<\/span><\/p>\n

The author gives the reader the opportunity to fill those gaps in order to understand those sentences. Its importance is to know whether the reader is paying to the reading or not. And the words used to fill the gaps are those that I write in bold character.<\/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

In this book you encounter names such as Jonathan Livingston seagull, Sullivan seagull, Fletcher Lynd seagull, Charles-Roland, Martin William seagull, Terrence Lowell, Henry Calvin, Kame Kirk and Maynard Gull. Are they human beings?<\/span><\/p>\n

They are birds which the author personified by giving them names. More important is the putting of their statement in inverted commas as if those statements are made by normal persons. This is to make the story interesting for the reader. The author used this method to deliver his message.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

A. How interesting was it to read? 6<\/span>
\n B. How helpful were the contents? 8<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 5<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 7<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 7<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Psycho-cybernetics 2000<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Dogbo, Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Bobbe Sommer proposes remedies to heal our physical, psychological and emotional wounds. In order to achieve attainable goals that we have set, they must go in conjunction with relaxation, reflective relearning, responding to feedback and building a positive self-image. In addition, happiness is at our hands and longevity is no more a myth.<\/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 first important idea: Building a positive self-image.<\/span><\/p>\n

If we refer to James Allen\u2019s declaration \u201cas a man thinking in his heart, so is he\u201d, this statement cannot be ignored since it has something to do with creating a self-image which is the key to our personality. The way you view yourself is the way people will view you. For instance if despite your age and intellectual capacity you still behave like a kid, people will take for a kid.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many a time, people reject some responsibilities they are given simple because they are afraid of being insulted or rejected by the groups they are controlling. Such people hide behind excuses such as \u201cI\u2019m too young to handle that responsibility\u201d, \u201cI haven\u2019t done it before\u201d, or \u201cthis person is better than I\u201d .These men and whoever sees himself as inferior before a situation, suffers from a phenomenon that philosophy called\u201d inferiority complex\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Considering my own case, I was afraid of girls when I was in my first year at Lom\u00e9 University of Togo (English department 2004-2005).Even though the ladies are respectful and friendly with me, I was not able to utter a word like \u201cI love you\u201d or \u201cyou are beautiful\u201d. In my mind I thought I don\u2019t deserve this lady because she is not my size. She is too tall and beautiful to fall in love with me. Or I avoid them because I believed I didn\u2019t have money to take them out or make them feel comfortable. This was my negative self-image of those days.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having a high self-esteem is useful in building a positive self-image.<\/span><\/p>\n

A job applicant who is going to respond to an interview must correct his self-image. This will be shown in his speaking. If he fails to convince his employer that his capacity goes beyond that task and therefore he can do the job, he has seventy-five percent of the chance to loose that post. This self-image is what determines victory or failure during football matches. As one team sees itself as inferior, or it thinks the opposition team is full of football stars, that team cannot win but it will be heavily beaten. It is clear to agree with Maltz that self-image prescribes our limits. However, developing a positive self-image enables us to add more living to our lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The second important idea: How to achieve success<\/span><\/p>\n

Neither is success a magic word nor a gift from heaven. It requires some principles and successful men are those who go according to their personal life agenda. That implies they do not turn to the left or right but they carefully follow their routes. Success is a long way which has no shortcut. If one wants to be on the mountain of success, s\/he must get prepared to climb the terrible steps.<\/span><\/p>\n

First of all, one needs to program oneself for success. What Maltz called the \u201chuman servomechanism can be either a success mechanism or a failure mechanism depending on the target our thinking mind establishes for it and on the way it responds to its own errors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Secondly, success can also be attained by applying creative imagination. As you create images of success in your mind, your spirit will be focused on it and it can be turned into actual success. A student who is preparing his exam must create image of success by seeing himself in the next class or he has to imagine himself celebrating his victory as if the results were proclaimed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Creative imagination heals me from stress and I make it a source of joy. When I create images of success concerning my future career, or about a situation I\u2019m passing through, I become delighted, optimist and full of joy even with no money in my pocket. Sometimes , people take me for a mad young man because they are seeing me smiling without knowing what is going on in my head. My secret is\u201d creative imagination\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition, relaxation enhances our creative imagination and turns stress in success. The brain gains new energy after a correct relaxation exercise. That is why students are given break-times, holidays, and vacations.<\/span><\/p>\n

To add, success can be reached through goal setting. As we set specific and attainable goals, we turn our servomechanism into success mechanism. A man with no goal in life is like dry tree leaves, very easy to be consumed by bush fire (life circumstances). Goal is an engine which draws us to success.<\/span><\/p>\n

To conclude, negative feedback can point us toward success. What we need to do is to recognize them as warning signals and take corrective actions. Above all, to experience success, one needs also to keep company of successful men.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The third important idea: The effects of false beliefs<\/span><\/p>\n

The belief systems begin in early childhood with reflections received from our parents and environments. These reflections form the basis of our self-image as we grow to maturity.<\/span><\/p>\n

A man who beats his wife might have lived in a violent environment or has observed his mother being beaten. A child\u2019s poor performance at school may depend on his belief especially when his parents often qualified him with words like \u201cyou a good for nothing\u201d, \u201clazy puppy\u201d or \u201cuseless creature\u201d. The child will carry that belief to adulthood. So anytime he will face a big responsibility, his false belief will remind him that: \u201dyou are a good for nothing\u201d therefore his last option is to give up. If belief conditions what a human being can do, then false beliefs should be excluded from our conscious mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

A patient\u2019s health status can improve or become worst depending upon his belief. If he has a strong and positive belief that he will be healed, he has helped the physician about fifty percent in treating his illness. There is another disease called \u201cmental poison\u201d. It quickly develops based on the belief of the victim. For example an old friend meets you on the road and declares \u201dOh! Why are going slim? Are you suffering from HIV\/AIDS?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Such declaration is a mental poison you are injected. Sometimes, the victim comes home and starts looking in the mirror and murmuring to himself \u201cso it\u2019s true, I\u2019m losing weight, I\u2019m losing the beauty of my body\u201d As he believes in that false declaration, he will become in few days as slim as a war refugee who hasn\u2019t eaten for months. False belief can kill faster than a bullet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Let us also see how a woman was raped around midnight by two soldiers who are in charge of security in that area. The victim felt abused and humiliated. Not knowing how to pay them in their own coin, she told them: \u201dprepare your coffins because I\u2019m a HIV\/AIDS patient\u201d. As one soldier gets home, he committed suicide because he doesn\u2019t want his wife to discover that he has that killer disease. The other soldier went to hospital for analysis and discovered that the woman is a liar. She later confirmed that it was a lie. The first soldier died because of his false belief.<\/span><\/p>\n

Challenging our false beliefs and using our imagination to create new memories will help us change our attitudes and behaviors and discover new abilities within ourselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The forth important idea: Dealing with stress.<\/span><\/p>\n

Stress according to my definition, is a psychological disease that occurs after witnessing an unpleasant situation or event. It is expressed through sadness and excessive anger. Many people got stressed after losing a parent, a beloved one (husband, wife, and child), a job or when they feel betrayed by a trusted person or lover or again upon hearing that their positions at workplaces have been affected. The causes of stress are numerous and its ingredients are uncountable and unbearable. In one way or the other, everybody has experienced that bitter moment of stress in his lifetime. But what is important is never to allow the omnipresent Mr. Stress control your life.<\/span><\/p>\n

To cope with it, one needs to practice aerobic exercises on regular basis. By doing so, the body releases endorphins that relieve physical and emotional stress as well as stimulate the blood flow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another remedy for stress is relaxation as explained by Maxwell through different exercises. He declares that one cannot relax and be stressed at the same time. It is clear to understand that the lack of relaxation can cause or increase stress.<\/span><\/p>\n

Laughter is said to have prolonged a person\u2019s life expectancy. Here again laughter is stress reliever since it stimulates the blood flow and the cardiac activity. Laughter can appease tension whenever the blood is hot and anger is given \u201cthe go ahead\u201d. He who laughs enough and regularly will be far from stress.<\/span><\/p>\n

Stress can be avoided through daily vacation. Stress quickly comes in our routine works. So a worker must have at least 10 to 15 minutes a day enjoying himself. He can choose to go and have fun with his friends in a new environment. White people have understood this, so during week-ends and vacation times, they travel to new areas to forget their problems and have fun. But in Africa we see it as waste of money simply because we Africans, we forget the impacts of stress on our lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

I started developing stress since 2009 after my fianc\u00e9e has left me for no reason after eight years of courtship. I was shocked and amazed to see change in her behavior; she no longer picks my calls or answers my SMS. My surprise was disagreeable when I see her with pregnancy. How can I believe this? A lady I haven\u2019t touched before and whom I take for a virgin, betrays my love and confidence. What a disappointment! I can\u2019t believe she can leave me one day. So anytime I see lovers, I become stressed but by sowing SEED, I will overcome it.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The fifth important idea: Avoid living someone else\u2019s script.<\/span><\/p>\n

Every child is born with his or her talent. This can be observed as early as in his first five years before he started school. Some children manifest their passion for a particular career through playing. It says the child will be acting like a soldier, a driver, a teacher, a physician or a policeman anytime he is playing with his comrades. That is his own script which I will call the \u201cgift of destiny\u201d. But unfortunately, our parents known as our earthly gods changed this script or simply replaced it with their own. Some parents will want their children to pursue a career that they themselves have failed to make. For others, it has become an imitation. Mr. X is a famous and rich lawyer so my son Y must read law at University.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another surprising fact is that some grow-ups or university students chose some faculties simple because they want to be in the same class with their High school classmates. Or again some may chose to study medicine because there is an uncle who is a physician and has promised him books and will offer him job after his studies.<\/span><\/p>\n

A similar case happened to me in 2004 when I got my High school diploma. I went to a wealthy uncle and asked him to help me pay my tuition fees at Lom\u00e9 university (50.000 F CFA = US$100). Though I decided to study English because it is my favorite subject, he forced me to study law. After having spent two months in the faculty of law, I was not able to pay the books; when I brought him the bill, he did not answer it till today. I understood that he has left me at half-way. So I converted my student application and went to English department.<\/span><\/p>\n

Living on someone else\u2019s script leads us sometimes into failure. Therefore, we have to know what we want from life and we have to hang on our purposes.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The sixth important idea: Learning from our mistakes<\/span><\/p>\n

We think of committing a mistake when we did something wrong, different from what we plan to do. Can we blame ourselves for our mistakes? Are mistakes always put in the basket of condemnation?<\/span><\/p>\n

Every great leader has learnt and acquired experience from his past mistakes. An experienced goal keeper was once a time a careless keeper who builds his reputation on past errors. Mistakes give us the alternative ideas which lead us to new and joyful achievements. A student who fears to be punished and cheats to get the highest mark in spite of his laziness and ignorance will never acquire knowledge.<\/span><\/p>\n

One thing is commit a mistake and another thing is recognize it. The most ignorant human being is the one who cannot recognize his mistakes. My personal mistake is to have believed my uncle by signing my resignation letter as a French teacher in a private school in Accra-GHANA, hoping that he will offer me a better job in Ivory Coast. I left Accra in August 2009 and I am bitterly surprised to see myself in the group of the jobless of Togo because he did not keep his promise but I believe God Jehovah will surely change my disappointment into an appointment. I learn \u201cnever to have confidence in a human being\u201d. According to a Togolese saying, \u201cnever beat and divorce your old wife if the new one is not yet under your roof\u201d. However we shouldn\u2019t allow past mistakes endanger our future. We have to learn from them and take corrective actions.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The seventh important idea: Making happiness a habit.<\/span><\/p>\n

When you interview hundred people, you may probably get hundred different answers or viewpoints. In my own case, I understood happiness as having a good job, important cash in my bank account, having a beautiful wife and intelligent children, and living in luxurious mansions, driving the latest cars, having the latest tools of technology at my disposal. But as years went by, I began viewing things in different ways and I have seen that I will take time before getting not all but some of those things which I believed would make me happy. Happy people are not compulsory the multi-billionaires, but they are those who do not give worry one centimeter to conquer their lives. Simply put, they are satisfied with their positions, belongings and whatever happens to them. They are optimists and they perfectly control stress, difficult and unforeseeable events. Happiness has no price. It has no location or address. It is a behavior that must be maintained safe daily if one wants to live long. To be truly happy, one needs to understand life and live cybernetically.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Really, the book contains many important ideas which the reader will not finish to select. But the emphasis will be laid only on the seven important ones explained in question 2.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everybody has shaped his or her self-image consciously or unconsciously. The way we regard ourselves is what Maltz named \u201cself-image\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

How does it affect our personality? Your self-image can prepare you for success or for failure depending on you. A positive self-image can give us the assurance to stand before any situation and overcome it. It is an invisible helper that is needed anytime. The same way a negative self-image destroys our lives by weakening our talents. An intellectual with the highest degree but with a negative self-image will run away from responsibilities because his self-image will tell him \u201cyou are not experienced in that field, do not accept that job\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

The important thing is that parents, guardians and school teachers should be very careful about how they appreciate or disgrace a child, since our self-image begins from childhood and it is shaped by our neighborhood.<\/span><\/p>\n

To continue, to achieve success in life or in a particular career, one needs to read success stories or make companion with those who succeed in their lives. As you try to imitate them, you will discover the keys to success.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another factor is to avoid living someone else\u2019s script. What your mind tells you to do, especially, in pursuing a career, is what will make you happy. When parents and sponsors are dictating a child the subject to study, the child will see himself as carrying another person\u2019s burden which of course will be unbearable for him. Give the person the possibility to make his own choice, is contributing to his happiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

What do we think if we make a mistake?<\/span><\/p>\n

Making mistake is neither a sin nor a crime but learning from them in order to take corrective actions, is the most important. For example a student who is correcting his grammatical mistakes will let the teacher know that he is improving. As we correct our mistakes, they will become lessons that we will share with our friends in order to warn them not to do the same thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

To conclude everybody wants to be happy. However, we neglect what we have, what we are, our capacities and we see the other person as happier than us. The truth is that if everybody can acknowledge the gift that God puts in him and be satisfied with his living condition, we shall all be happy. Life and health are the most precious gift the Creator gives us, so there is no need crying for material things which cannot give you anything but stress. Wherever you are and whatever job you are doing, if you are healthy, shout daily and say:\u201d I am the happiest person on earth\u201d. This is an antidote for frustration, stress, anxiety which lead to premature death.<\/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

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter how many times you have failed in the past. What matters is the successful attempt, which should be remembered, reinforced, and dwelt upon\u201d Maxwell Maltz<\/span><\/p>\n

Determined people, achievers and successful men have met failure on their routes. Whoever wants to greet Mr. SUCCESS has to pass through the narrow gate of Mrs. FAILURE and flowers on the path such as discouragement, impossibility, fear, doubt, and laziness will caress your feet. But my advice for you is \u201cbe stubborn to give up and shout loudly by saying I have made it\u201d. Your strength, courage and determination, will be empowered by the number of times you have failed. We say in our language (Ew\u00e9, spoken in the southern part of Togo) that \u201cdo not transform a slipping place into a sleeping place\u201d. In other words, anytime you fail, stand up and continue the journey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am not judged by the number of times I fail but by the number of times I succeed, and the number of times I succeed is in direct proportion of the number of times I can fail and keep on trying\u201d Tom Hopkins<\/span><\/p>\n

Hopkins goes in the same direction like Maltz to emphasize on the fact that failure must not prevent us from reaching success.<\/span><\/p>\n

Let\u2019s consider the case of a one-year-old baby who is learning to walk. Anytime he stands up, he falls. Or hardly had he made one or two steps when he fell down. But that child keeps on practicing walking as well as running in order to play with his peers. As he ran while playing football joyfully, he forgot his trauma during the walking period. Success rewards our efforts and makes us forget our failures.<\/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

\u201cNever let your right brain know what your left brain is thinking\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Can my grand-mother like any uneducated person understand this statement? For many people, this statement may seem strange and ridiculous. Some will even conclude that brain is brain, so whether left hemisphere or right hemisphere, both work together to help the man behave like an intelligent creature. The existence of these two hemispheres in the brain as well as how they function will create a misunderstanding between an ordinary person and an intellectual as far as their viewpoints are concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Scientific researches have proved that the left and right hemispheres of the brain control different functions of the mind and the body. The left brain controls the ability to produce and understand speech; it is logical sequential and analytic. It comprehends an object by its name whereas the right brain enables us to form, store, and respond to sensory data; it is intuitive, simultaneous, and synthetic. It comprehends an object by the way it looks or feels.<\/span><\/p>\n

From this explanation, it is clear to understand that the two hemispheres live together like twin brothers but have different functions. Like the saying \u201ctwo captains cannot control the same and only ship\u201d it is advisable to shut down the right brain when the left brain is at work and vice versa.<\/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 is full of practical exercises and relaxation techniques. The book is according to me a drugstore where the reader will find solutions to his mental, social, emotional and physical illnesses. Among those useful exercises, I have chosen to answer a questionnaire about the origin of my beliefs. (Page 72-74)<\/span><\/p>\n

Questionnaire<\/span><\/p>\n

1. What is your first memory of being alive? *what was the event?<\/span><\/p>\n

I was washing my feet in an uncovered Sump in my uncle\u2019s house and suddenly, I Slipped into it and I began going down till The water reached my nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

*How old were you? I was seven years old.<\/span><\/p>\n

* Who was with you? Our housemaid.<\/span><\/p>\n

*What emotions do you remember feeling? I was afraid of Losing my life and I started shouting And crying till I Was rescued.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. What were you like as a small child?<\/span><\/p>\n

*What family stories were told about you?<\/span><\/p>\n

I was told that I resemble my grand-father. During my naming ceremony a man put knife in my hands but my aunt replaced it with pen and said I will be an intellectual.<\/span><\/p>\n

*Did you feel that you are a wanted child? Yes.<\/span><\/p>\n

*What memories support this feeling? My mother told me that my father was praying to get a boy since the two previous children are girls. So at my birth my parents were glad.<\/span><\/p>\n

*What nicknames did your family give you? They nicknamed me Douassi\u2019s picture (Douassi is my grand-father)<\/span><\/p>\n

*Did you fit in your family? Yes.<\/span><\/p>\n

*How would you evaluate your overall \u201csuccess\u201d in the years before you started school?<\/span><\/p>\n

I was a fast learner especially in memorizing songs. In our former church \u201cthe Evangelical Presbyterian church of Togo, Agove branch, the children are given short Bible quotations to recite during Christmas and I was among the best Christian children.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. What were your elementary school years like?<\/span><\/p>\n

*What memories do you have of kindergarten?<\/span><\/p>\n

I am used to going to school early to ring the bell because it was my way of amusement. I was also interested in reading books with pictures.<\/span><\/p>\n

*What do you remember your teachers were saying about you?<\/span><\/p>\n

They said I am a talkative because at the teacher\u2019s absence I moved to stay with my friends and played games under the desk but I was active and paid attention when the lesson begins.<\/span><\/p>\n

*What was the general message of your grade-school report cards?<\/span><\/p>\n

Neat student, always on time at school, interested in reading but must improve in Mathematics.<\/span><\/p>\n

*How easily did you form friendships?<\/span><\/p>\n

Very easily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Explanation<\/span><\/p>\n

I like making friends with people who are active and can control their tempers. I don\u2019t like smokers and alcohol drinkers.<\/span><\/p>\n

*How well do you feel you \u201cmeasured up\u201d to your peers?<\/span><\/p>\n

Very well<\/span><\/p>\n

Explanation,<\/span><\/p>\n

I chose my friends and I make sure we share the same values, interests and beliefs. I like approaching or studying with intelligent people.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything in the book 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

As I read the title \u201cPsycho-cybernetics 2000\u201d I thought of getting a book that teaches computer science or explains a special software. What is more surprising but interesting is that I encounter words such as: data, programming, reprogramming and input.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why is the author using computer language to convey his message?<\/span><\/p>\n

Human brain is larger and more complicated than a computer. But both operate the same way. That is why the author is using computer vocabulary to explain his arguments. Since our world has become a computerized world, it is easy for any contemporary reader to understand the book. As we know, computer does not create data; it works on data given to it by the user. So what our conscious mind sends as information (input) is what our subconscious mind accepts and this constitutes our self-image (output).<\/span><\/p>\n

In order to manipulate our brain very well like a computer and live a productive life, Maltz designed software called \u201cCRAFT\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

This process CRAFT, used to control the automatic guidance system, will help us correct and program our successes.<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 10
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 8
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Success Through Positive Mental Attitude<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Dogbo, Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

From my understanding, wealth can be attracted; good health, longevity, happiness and success can be achieved by the amazing power of PMA. Using the positive side of our talisman will bring us positive results. Whatever happens to us and whatever we get, all is about our mental attitude. PMA leads us to the kingdom of great achievements. It is an invisible helper and savior. As we have power to choose, the authors of this book are advising the reader to choose PMA and not NMA.<\/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 first important idea: Meet the most important living person.<\/span><\/p>\n

As I take the book and read this sentence, I thought I will discover the name of a famous philosopher or thinker. But I am surprised to know that that most important living person is within myself and is the Positive Mental Attitude. This PMA is the secret behind success. No doubt, we can affirm that before seeing a physical change in someone\u2019s life, his thoughts have already changed. That means change of mind produces change of someone\u2019s living condition. Success stories from the book revealed that poor men created wealth by adopting a positive mental attitude. I have clearly understood that poverty is not lack of money but lack of knowledge or information. Even the Bible declares: \u201cmy people are perishing because of ignorance\u201d. I have discovered something precious that will lift me up. Therefore I refuse to accept poverty as a heritage. I will create wealth and I will let my friends know Mr. PMA.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The second important idea: Transmuting sex into a virtue or vice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sex as the authors said, is a gift from God. Its mission is to procreate. It is sacred and must be consumed by married people. In Africa, parents see it as a taboo and they don\u2019t talk openly about it before children. However, we receive sex education at school and how to handle sex health. Far from immorality and without being a hypocrite, I will say that sex is cold weapon. It has been used by wise women to get what they wanted. Powerful and anointed men of God, renowned kings could not resist before sex bullets. Even the mighty Samson in the Bible gave the secret of his strength to a woman, Delilah. Some university or college ladies use sex to get their degrees. We call it in our own expression \u201csexually transmitted marks\u201d (in French: Les notes sexuellement transmissibles). It is clear to observe that men are often the victims. The only thing which can help us control our sexual feeling and which makes the difference between the power of sex being a virtue or vice is mental attitude.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The third important idea: how to get things done.<\/span><\/p>\n

Procrastination is the enemy of realizing a project or a dream. Very often we are encouraged by laziness and keep on postponing our projects on unknown dates. Great achievers tackle whatever they plan to do as soon as they get the idea. The book gives us the magic word. And to paraphrase the authors, the secret of getting things done is: DO IT NOW! Do not postpone anything to tomorrow, for tomorrow does not belong to you. For example when I was told about IIGL distance learning program, I was interested in it and I promised to forward my student application the same week without waiting because I told myself that the best moment to start global leadership studies is now.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fourth important idea: self-motivation and motivation of others.<\/span><\/p>\n

Motivation is very important in the fulfillment of our purposes. It can be expressed through encouraging words. But motivation must start with oneself. If not, how can you give testimony about a drug if you haven\u2019t taken it before? Or how can you motivate others if you don\u2019t know how to motivate yourself? \u201cCharity begins at home\u201d say Englishmen. Self-motivation is again the self-starter expressed as DO IT NOW! This self-starter calls for action. It works like engine oil. My own self-starter is: I CAN DO IT.<\/span><\/p>\n

Anytime I pronounce this sentence I get the strength and determination to do what I want to do. It is a way of challenging myself. And whenever I am facing a challenge, I become crazy and I do everything possible to overcome it. To motivate others, you need to tell them examples that illustrate your intention. The heart of man becomes glad upon hearing joyful and encouraging words. In the same manner our spirits get hot and ready for action when we receive challenging messages. All is a game of words. For instance as we have been seeing it in Hollywood movies, a boxer wins a championship when he receives motivation words from his coach and supporters. His strength to win does not come from his muscles but from the motivation he receives. So, it is useful to motivate ourselves and others.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fifth important idea: how to attract wealth?<\/span><\/p>\n

The authors declare that whoever you are, regardless of your age, your education, or your occupation, you can attract wealth.<\/span><\/p>\n

What an encouraging declaration! It says that wealth has no barrier and it is not reserved for a particular group of people or VIP\u2019s. The secret is positive mental attitude. I am glad and I start smiling when I read questions from the book such as: Would you like to be rich? Are you afraid to be rich?<\/span><\/p>\n

Everybody, including a five-year-old boy will answer these questions positively. However, everybody cannot be wealthy except those who engage in studying, thinking and planning time with PMA. Wealthy people or multi-billionaires have their secrets.<\/span><\/p>\n

In 2005, I heard the history of the ex-prime minister of Lebanon, Raffic Hariri on radio France International (rfi). I was inspired by how he found himself among billionaires. He was rated by the American magazine, Ford as the youngest billionaire. The man was a poor boy who went on adventure at the age of 18 in Saudi Arabia to make money. I believed he had no university degree before that age and he hadn\u2019t inherited one dollar from his parents but he realized his dreams, he attracted wealth. He might have used PMA.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The sixth important idea: good health and longevity.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wealth, happiness, good health and longevity are the desires of all human beings. Among these desires, good health is the most precious of all according to me. Some wealthy men spend millions of US dollars a year seeking for medical cares. Some may even pay air-tickets for foreign medical doctors because their healths need a touch of an expert. Longevity is a mere dream and can be considered as a punishment if one is not in good health. What is the use of living longer if you are living on drugs? Or what joy can you get from longevity if you are confined to a wheelchair? And what happiness can you preach if your heart lives in tears and sorrows? \u201cA healthy heart is a happy heart\u201d says a proverb.<\/span><\/p>\n

If PMA can attract wealth, happiness and longevity, it can surely lead us to a healthy life. Hygiene, defined as a system of principles or rules designed for the promotion of health must be observed by every person. Jehovah wants His people to be healthy that is why He prescribed hygienic rules for the people of Israel which were carried out by their leader Moses. If the omnipotent God, the Doctor of doctors emphasized on hygiene, why shouldn\u2019t we include it in our mentalities? If you are neglecting your personal body hygiene but trying to catch the train of wealth and longevity, your race will stop in the land of \u201cHad I known\u2026.\u201dGood health is the key to open the doors of longevity, wealth and happiness. Therefore, I have decided to live a healthy life by practicing hygiene, saying no to alcohol, smoking and sex abuse. I will very soon get involved in the learning of Yoga only for health purpose because I want to enjoy life and live longer like the Japanese.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The seventh important idea: Getting rid of guilt feeling.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is normal for someone to feel guilty after committing a wrong action. It shows acknowledgement toward the offended person. Guilt feeling happens to people who have good conscience. They feel sorry anytime they misbehave.<\/span><\/p>\n

But how can we get rid of guilt feeling? Our conscience has a voice. It talks to us when we are undertaking an evil project. It judges our behaviors and blames us for our doings<\/span><\/p>\n

Dwelling in that guilt feeling have motivated some men to destroy their lives, mutilate their bodies and cast spell upon themselves. Here again, PMA can help us come out of that prison of self-accusation. Moreover, listening to a lecture, an inspirational sermon could change your life. But in everything give thanks to God, feel sincerely sorry about your wrong doing and ask for forgiveness. Finally repent and your conscience will set you free.<\/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

This book is a blessing for the reader. It is full of practical advices and one cannot stop remembering the teachings it contains. Positive Mental Attitude is referred to as the most important living person. When reading the book, I get information about people who used PMA to change their lives and accomplish great things. The authors have unveiled my eyes and I notice that I have something precious which can help me live better, attract wealth, feel good, healthy, and happy and live longer. PMA is my new discovery which I will share with my friends and neighbors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another important lesson to keep in mind is getting things done. Procrastination like I said it earlier is the enemy of achievement. To get things done: DO IT NOW! Say the authors. That implies the best time to act is the time you get the idea. Procrastination will kill that desire in you. If that injection \u201cdo it now\u201d is flowing through your blood vessels, you will never be caught by laziness and you will always realize your projects at their times.<\/span><\/p>\n

The previous idea can be linked with self-motivation and the motivation of others. To motivate is to be given a moral strength to accomplish a task. If you don\u2019t have people who can motivate you, know how to motivate yourself. Self-motivation begins with the self-starter DO IT NOW! Repeat this command to yourself anytime you are undertaking a project. Without realizing where that strength comes from, you will be noticed as an achiever. The same way, do good to your fellows by motivating them. Words work like magic but money can be used as the greatest motivator. I was part of a group of seven men who were asked to produce sixteen thousand paving-stones in 12 days. At first we said we couldn\u2019t do that work without a concrete mixer. But after the road engineer motivated us with money, our forces replaced that of a machine, we worked like robots and we finished the work in that given period.<\/span><\/p>\n

Attracting wealth is possible only with people who adopt positive mental attitude. Anyone who has developed the idea to acquire wealth will surely get it if he can put his PMA to work. We shouldn\u2019t forget that opposite side of the talisman, NMA can repel wealth. So wealth seekers beware!<\/span><\/p>\n

To dream of longevity, we need to be in good health. And good health implies applying hygiene. About eighty percent of the diseases we get today come from our behavior. It simple means, we ignore hygiene. A frequent examples I will give concerns food vendors. Some of them go to toilet without washing their hands. They continue selling. What do you think they are selling? Of course they are selling diseases and not food. If one ignorant person can make a whole population suffer from diseases, doctors, teachers, pastors and group leaders have to campaign nonstop for hygiene since the public health is concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMy greatest mistake was being with the wrong companions. My major sin was associating with people who were bad\u201d Charlie Ward.<\/span><\/p>\n

A human being cannot live alone. He is a sociable animal who needs someone\u2019s companionship to feel happy. The Creator has remarked this in the Garden of Eden. To fill the gap in Adam\u2019s life, He created a woman, Eve, for him as companion. This socialism of human beings has been hammered by the philosopher Karl Marx who declared: \u201dMan is man only by living in community with other men\u201d. This version is my own translation of a statement that the philosopher made in French. He means that we acquire human qualities and virtues from our societies.<\/span><\/p>\n

If we can copy good behavior from good friends and we try to live according to good manners, a bad environment can also influence our behaviors. \u201cWrong companions corrupt the right ones\u201d. This proverb goes in the same direction like this popular saying:\u201d Tell me who is your friend and I will tell you who you are.\u201d As we live and do everything together, we transfer our mentalities and behaviors to one another. What can we do now? The answer is very simple. Every tree bears its fruits. So we can choose our friends wisely by first of all studying their behaviors. If you hate arm-robbery, don\u2019t befriend an arm-robber, you will be contaminated.<\/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

So you\u2019ve got a problem? That is good!<\/span><\/p>\n

This is the first and amazing sentence you will read in chapter six of the book. But my question is: what is good about getting a problem?<\/span><\/p>\n

Are you ready to embrace a problem and consider it as a change-maker? Frankly speaking, if I can see the house of problems, I will never come closer to that house. Problems eliminate joy in our hearts and send frustration, sadness even tears on our faces. Problems disturb our thoughts. A man who has a problem whether financial or emotional one can cross a motorway without control. His life can be jeopardized. This is my own story. If not for the Divine protection upon my life, a long vehicle might have stamped me one afternoon as I was crossing a motorway at Achimota Overhead in Accra. Because I had a serious financial problem. Problems make our imaginations travel to far distances. A Christian who is constantly faced with problems can never experience the goodness, the grace and blessing of God. Dealing with problems all the time can make a person grow older than his age. The proof is that medical doctors and scientists grow white hair faster than their peers because they are engaged in thinking to find solutions to human illness and meet the challenges of their professions. Problems weaken our brain cells and send us to early grave. So what is good about getting a problem? My question comes back.<\/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 find them helpful?<\/span><\/p>\n

Success Quotient Analysis<\/span><\/p>\n

Illustration of answers:<\/span><\/p>\n

Number of \u201cYes\u201d answers instead of \u201cNO\u201d 1×4= 4<\/span><\/p>\n

Number of \u201cNo\u201d answers instead of \u201cYes\u201d 6×4=24<\/span><\/p>\n

Total Number of wrong answers 28<\/span><\/p>\n

Perfect score 300<\/span><\/p>\n

Minus total number of wrong answers – 28<\/span><\/p>\n

My score 272<\/span><\/p>\n

My rating is Fair (average)<\/span><\/p>\n

Because it is between 200 to 274 points.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything which 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

\u201cIf you don\u2019t have money, use OPM: other people\u2019s money\u201d says the book. This is an encouraging advice for businessmen who are looking for credit. Some may see it as a heavenly formula to succeed in business and attract wealth. Honest people deserve credit. Whether OPM or bank loan think about the full repayment. The authors give examples of many businessmen who attracted wealth by using OPM. Such men are conscious and honest men who fulfilled their promises. As you are honest and willing to repay your credits, you have great chance to be granted new ones. Honesty is the soul of a good companionship.<\/span><\/p>\n

But is OPM a paradise for its users?<\/span><\/p>\n

Every medal has two faces. We talked about PMA and NMA. So get prepared to discover the junior brother of OPM. OPM if used wisely can change life once and for all. But what if an OPM user fails to keep his promise?<\/span><\/p>\n

Every property you divert for personal use will disturb your peace of mind. OPM is like stolen money. Maybe you take it to run your business without the knowledge of its owner. An OPM which is not repaid will land you in jail and destroy your life. Some people have their properties seized by the banks and financial services because they have accumulated debts. So, anytime you are going in for bank loan or planning to use OPM, think twice.<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 10
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 9
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Assessment by Kofi Fafali Dogbo<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Success, according to Dr Hill is neither a simple word nor a wish. It is a long way to go. As a journey, it has steps to follow without neglecting the smallest. He listed and named these steps: the seventeen (17) principles of personal achievement. In brief, success is a behavior to adopt and this book is both a life changing guide and a help for any ambitious reader who wants to achieve success, health and wealth.<\/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 first important idea: The habit of smiling<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling before an audience has a direct impact on the listeners since it will help you draw their attention. It is advisable to greet with smile. It shows love and consideration for the person you are greeting. Smile begets smile, says the formula. A wicked and arrogant person will change his or her mind before a smiling face. African market women use smile as their marketing strategy to sell their products. The client is smoothly forced by a smiling voice to come and purchase a product that s\/he has not planned to buy. The smile sends messages to the person you want to reach. On the job market, an applicant who is smiling while answering an interview will win the interviewer\u2019s confidence. Smiling is an important factor in assembling an attractive personality.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The second important idea: Replacing fear with hope.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fear is present in our spirit. Whether fear of poverty, fear of criticism, ill health, loss of love, old age, loss of liberty or death, we are all baked in the oven of fear. Fear works with the law of attraction according to which anything we conceive in our minds whether good or bad is what happens to us. In the same way, fear of poverty or fear of death pushes us into that trap because as we focus our minds on it, we attract it, and it will happen as imagined. The fear of failure provokes failure. In order to cope with fear, we need to free our minds from evil and unwanted situations and focus our spirits on things we want to get. Hope is an antidote for fear. Any event or situation that tries to shower fear on you, can be healed by a mentality nourished with hope. Hope gives us life since it makes us believe that the good days are not over and something new is ahead of us. When you loose hope, you are given the enemy, fear, to take control of your life and ruin it. Be strong and reject fear.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The third important idea: Becoming indispensable<\/span><\/p>\n

Going the extra mile implies making additional sacrifice. To become indispensable in a group or at a workplace, involves playing the major role in that group or service. Nowadays, getting a job and keeping it is a challenge. Though competitions are observed on the job market. To secure your post, you need to make yourself indispensable by doing something sacrifices that nobody can do. At some places, some workers accept to do extra time without getting extra payment. Such people will surely be remembered and rewarded for their efforts in case the company wants to reduce its workforce. Make it difficult for somebody to imitate or replace you. Make sure you are indispensable in your service and not only will you get peace of mind but also pride and assurance about your work.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fourth important idea: The power of accurate thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

Great achievers got their fame through accurate thoughts. Thought changes situations according to the way it is used. Why shouldn\u2019t a human being be equipped with this important element and use it to better his or her living condition? The United States of America escaped the economic crisis of 1929 because Franklin Delano Roosevelt was not only backed by great economists but accurate thinkers who helped him save US\u2019 economy while England, Germany and other countries were crying for help. Accurate thought is better than a prophecy because it prevents danger.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fifth important idea: The power of controlled attention<\/span><\/p>\n

Attention is given to whatever we consider as important and therefore indispensable. A businessman who has invested all his money in a business can\u2019t help dreaming of success and prosperity of that business. Controlled attention kept our minds focused on the goals to attain. Turning to the left or to the right is not possible with controlled attention. Every person needs it like a light when walking toward success. Why is it important?<\/span><\/p>\n

The lack of controlled attention makes some people wander in life. They don\u2019t know what they want and they can\u2019t tell where they are going. Such people may have best projects and big dreams but they will not fulfill one. The controlled attention is what accommodates Barack Obama in the White House. Neither did he give reasons to doomsayers nor listen to the mockeries of his political rivals. His attention was only on the presidential seat and how to get there. His controlled attention convinced his opponents and the whole world sing with him \u201cYES WE CAN\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The sixth important idea: Budgeting your time and money.<\/span><\/p>\n

Time and money are precious, they go hand in hand. The popular saying lets us know that time is money. Very often, we repeat this sentence without understanding it. How can we convert time into money?<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, it is frequent to observe civil servants browsing the net or sending text messages (SMS) and emails to their loved ones during working hours. The misuse of the time creates debts which can amount to billions of dollars causing the bankruptcy in some companies. A self-employed who does not set a correct time table for himself, will continue loosing money and he will never fulfill his desire to get rich. Budgeting money, in my opinion, should be taught as a special subject starting from primary school. Many young men including myself spend money without control. Sometimes, I make unforeseen expenses which I regret later. Money has control over me and I notice my mistake when it is finished. Saving is not possible without self-discipline. Budgeting time and money should be included in our habits.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The seventh important idea: Applied faith with PMA<\/span><\/p>\n

Faith according to Napoleon Hill, is the art of believing by doing. Faith combined with PMA will act like a bomb which can break the unbreakable mountains and stones. Whatever we conceive and believe in our minds, is what comes into existence. PMA will strengthen faith. The author added the third important ingredient which is prayer. Prayer is another form of expression our desires by communicating them to a Supreme Being. Prayer cannot produce a positive result without faith. If prayer is said to be our greatest power, it will do more when it is associated to faith and PMA.<\/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

To develop the habit of smiling is preparing the way for good health and longevity. A smiling face is saying no to anxiety, sorrow, depression, sadness and all the agents that constitute the team of unhappiness. Even a toothless mouth has all the reason to smile since it is necessary for his physical and spiritual growth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Replacing fear with hope is a quality to learn. Most of the time, what we fear is what happens to us. In 2008 in ACCRA, I experienced a terrible economic hardship. In that time, all the phone calls I received from TOGO frightened me because I was afraid of hearing a bad news. Unfortunately, on 20TH December 2008, a phone call informed me about the death of my father. I nearly collapsed because my situation was more serious than his death. This unwanted event happened because the fear of death of one my parents was present in my spirit. To heal that illness, I replace the fear of premature death and poverty with the hope of longevity and wealth possession in abundance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Becoming indispensable is a must in this world full of challenges. It could mean going beyond where others have stopped. It is a guarantee in securing your post in a service. When your employer remarks that you are indispensable, s\/he will be forced to rewrite your work contract. Hear what Victor Hugo; a French novelist said \u201cIf you are a street sweeper, sweep well so that, one day people can remind you and say there was a great street sweeper\u201d. Becoming indispensable, in other words, signifies doing your best without giving someone the chance to find mistake in your actions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Budgeting time and money is a crucial problem the world is facing today. I waste the greater part of my hours doing nothing and I regret it when night falls. I watched a program directed by an economist on Ghana television (GTV), and I remark that it is very easy for civil servant and a teacher in particular to become a millionaire after some years only by following a strict saving policy. I am one of the people who do not consider coins. We neatly arrange the bank notes in our purses and throw the coins anywhere in our rooms. About one third of the purchase I do can be considered as unforeseen expenses. Thanks to Dr Hill because his book has taught me the laws of economy.<\/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

Ralph Waldo Emerson \u201cOne single idea may have greater weight than the labor of all the men, animals and engines for a century\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

What is he trying to say? For many people, the author is exaggerating. But far from any joke and exaggeration as one may think, ideas are bullets. A positive idea produces positive result and a negative idea produces negative result. For example, Adolf Hitler whose height could not reach 1.50m, with his evil ideas damaged the economies of many countries and millions of human lives were destroyed. Precious ideas bring fame, honor and joy to the their authors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Alfred Nobel established the Nobel Prize in apology to the humanity because his reason for making bombs and heavy weapons was misunderstood. And today those weapons are used on military fields against human beings. What an abomination!<\/span><\/p>\n

The amazing and positive idea that factory owners and employers will not stop praising is the replacement of the labor force with robots. The production will increase; no insurance for the robots but more money will go into the employer\u2019s bank account. We do agree that one single idea may have greater weight it can bring positive change for generations.<\/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

\u201cYou are where you are and what you are because of your established habits.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This sentence appears on page 201 of the book. Does it correspond to the reality? Every living being struggle to better his or her living condition. Even the trees and the flowers will run away from bush fire if they have the possibility to move. Sometimes, our efforts do not yield the wanted results and they seem to be fruitless. Getting no improvement in our lives cannot be compared to laziness or inactivity. The grandest worry is to understand why and how can established habits nail someone at one place? The above statement contains many questions which only the author can answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

On his side, Napoleon Hill declares that what happens to us is the result of our mental habits which is linked to the cosmic habitforce. What the stars, the moon and the planets have to do with our destinies? Or what is the spiritual power that is backing the cosmic habitforce? And how can our imaginations bring happiness or sorrows in our lives?<\/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 most important exercise I discover in the book is the 22 questions labeled \u201cA personal inventory\u201d on page 188, chapter 16. Trying to get answers for those questions has broadened my mind about success and I keep on reading the questions every day in order to get new ideas.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Napoleon declares in this book: \u201c sex is behind all the creative force that advance human destiny. Sex built cathedrals, universities and nations\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A great number of people would like to know what sex and sublimation have to do with success. This topic is not a taboo. On the contrary it opens our mind on the positive aspects of sex. We have to agree that among the desires of the human body such as food, clothing and shelter; sex is the most precious. It is, according to Napoleon Hill, a natural desire that one must not refuse to satisfy. Having a good sexual intercourse for hours helps the body and the brain function like a new machine. I spent two and half years without touching a lady. And during that moment I felt regular fatigue, my head seems to be full of rubbish. I had to live on vitamin C to feel well. One night I decided to break the law of holiness and I had sex with a female friend. I remarked that I was well after the game and I slept well like a baby since my body was emptied. No doubt sex is more than a drug. Denying it to yourself is pushing yourself to an early grave.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sex can trigger success. At High school, we seduce ladies with higher marks because they usually fall in love with the most intelligent boy of the class. Therefore, we have understood that to get ladies on your back, just hang on your books, you will surely attract them. In addition, health has no price we have to do everything we can to preserve, protect and defend it.<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 8
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 7
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How to Win Friends and Influence People<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The book ‘How to win friends & influence people’ is a personal guide for whoever desires to maintain smoothly men and women and his or her command. The book contains knowledge that can be identified as good manners. In this 21st century where greatness and leadership are serious battles among the big bosses, Dale Carnegie’s instructions can make a reader the most influential, respected and loved leader depending upon his or her attitude toward the society.<\/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

a. The first important idea: The feeling of greatness<\/span><\/p>\n

Human beings like pride. We want to feel great. The drop of greatness made Lucifer disobeyed the Highest Authority, Jehovah. Anyway this is what the Bible makes us believe. In human kingdoms, we are used to calling titles like ‘your Highness, your Majesty. ‘Sometimes, princes and princesses get angry when they are considered as simple citizens. They claim their respects since they are royalties. In every society, community or a common club, the leader wants to be given the most important attention. Some are ready to sacrifice human lives to get a mere title. For some, money is the easiest but the surest method to use in order to get that passport labeled ‘the most important’. Politicians are the first examples since they embezzle state funds to corrupt people during their campaigns. Why are we struggling to feel important? Instead of using money or force to feel great, we rather need to develop qualities such as love for everybody, humility, forgiveness, generosity, sympathy. Your attitudes will campaign for you in possessing the land called ‘important’. Jesus showed the example by washing feet for his disciples. He added: ” He who wants to be great, must be the servant of others”. Clearly speaking, we need to understand that neither university degree nor wealth can buy a good reputation.<\/span><\/p>\n

b. The second important idea: Know how to appreciate people.<\/span><\/p>\n

Saying thanks or well done to a servant or an employee after the job is correctly done makes the heart of the person rejoice. A romantic man must always appreciate her wife whenever she changes her look or cook a delicious meal for him. By doing so, he will get the wife’s love increased as well as her politeness and kindness. Even the Almighty Jehovah glorifies Himself in praises. A good parent should encourage his or her child instead of blaming him or her. A qualified teacher will keep his classroom active if he knows how to appreciate his pupils’ efforts. A Managing Director must not fail to congratulate his worker with a sincere handshake and thanksgiving when the latter does a job that is beyond the company’s expectation. I feel happy and I am eager to do more when I receive congratulation messages from my superiors.<\/span><\/p>\n

c. The third important idea: be used to smiling<\/span><\/p>\n

A smiling face is pleasant to admire since it expresses happiness, joy, good health, kindness, goodness and the list is endless. Smiling is the best method to draw more clients in business. Drinking bars and restaurants owners in Togo have understood it. They employ beautiful and smiling ladies to get male clients. We have to agree that a smile from a lady is more than a smile. You will be seduced to buy items which are not included in your budget. I once witnessed food vendor enduring rubbish from a group of young men. They disgraced the old woman and declared that her food is tasteless. What was her response? Oh yes, you are right, but take it like that, tomorrow I will prepare something delicious for you. Answering the clients’ complaints with smiles, the old woman sold all her food and went home earlier than usual.<\/span><\/p>\n

d. The fourth important idea: names contain magic. The old tradition let us know that we shouldn’t address an application letter to somebody by his or her name. Instead, use his or her position in the company or service. This formula cannot be applied in business especially in dealing with people. More often, we meet our old classmates, and calling the person by his name lets him know how important he is to us. My technique in winning ladies is that I gather information about her without her knowledge. During our first contact, I mention the lady’s full name and read her her own biography. She will surely accept my proposal and I never lose in this battle. Calling a stranger by his name is getting his love, confidence and friendship. A businessman or businesswoman who wants to get important business associates must not neglect this lesson.<\/span><\/p>\n

e. The fifth important idea: showing sympathy to your neighbor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sympathizing with our friends and relatives in difficult situations is a powerful pain reliever. It signifies having love for that person. In western countries, the suicide rate is very high because people are selfish and don’t have time to listen to their neighbors’ agonies and sympathize with them. Some free candidates for death jump into rivers and lakes because they have serious troubles but they have nobody to talk to. What a pity! Some wealthy men spend money on unnecessary things instead of saving somebody’s life or giving a frustrated person a drop of hope and happiness. As we want to be loved and shown sympathy let us do the same for our neighbors.<\/span><\/p>\n

f. The sixth important idea: rebuking people in a friendly way.<\/span><\/p>\n

Blaming an adult should be done with diplomacy. Many of us find it unbearable and shameful when their mistakes are revealed publicly. But choosing the right time and the right place to put someone before his or her responsibility is an important thing to learn. A child can rebel against his parents when he is disgraced or punished before his comrades. Moreover the offense becomes severe when we are blamed in the presence of our friends and loved ones. Rebuking people with shouting and in public makes some employers loose their valuable workforces.<\/span><\/p>\n

g. The seventh important idea: correct your own mistake before correcting someone else. Neglecting our own wrongdoings and trying to hang our neighbors on the cross because he or she committed a mistake is a devilish act. In my society in Togo, we have a password to silence those teachers who cannot correct their mistakes but they try to uncover someone’s error. The password is easy to memorize and simple to understand. \u201cmind your own business\u201d. Confucius expressed the same viewpoint when he declares \u201c don’t complain about the snow on your neighbor’s roof, when your own doorstep is unclean\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

Correcting someone’s mistake with our own examples will make the person get the message. He or she will feel important and her or his conscience will be free from self-condemnation because the adviser has gone through the same mistake. I remember my school days. Anytime I am given the opportunity to write the names of talkative in the teacher’s absence, I always start with my own name. With this method, I had no pity for my best friends. I penned their names down when they dare talk. Neither did they complain nor hate me since I received the same punishment like them.<\/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

People are proud when they are given importance; they feel happy and boast about their position. Ignoring this, may be considered as an insult. A man of God got annoyed during a church service as the presenter forgot to call him \u201cReverend Pastor\u201d. Why was he angry? He wanted to be recognized as more important and holier than the other pastors. Encouraging our friends and colleagues after he or she has done a great job is a simple act which demands no money. It is part of good manners. Far to be a flattery, a sincere appreciation makes us feel happy and trigger the productivity at work. It has a positive effect on the person when it is expressed in action. For example, giving bonus or extra-pay to his servant or employee is a good sign. Any gift expressing appreciation is like a trophy won during a competition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, as people say, does not symbolize the whiteness of the teeth but it demonstrates the joy and the love we have for the person. A good receptionist must add smiling to the hotel or restaurant menu if he wants to do good business. Smiling to someone who is angry can change his mind and abandon his evil plan. Sympathizing with our neighbors during difficult moments demonstrates the consideration and love we have for them. A sympathizer must learn how to listen to his neighbor’s problem or situation. He should calm his spirit with encouraging words. The problem may be financial one but answering it with wisdom and proposing solutions to the person in sorrow, the problem is half solved.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statement 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

\u201cIf you want to gather honey, don’t kick over the beehive\u201d. This statement in the form of African proverb will surely draw the attention of every reader. It is a strong advice which can be interpreted in many ways. To my viewpoint, it means patience. It could mean perseverance. Some people will understand it as following the normal steps to reach the top. But in a more simple and understandable manner, this statement can be understood like a man proposing to a woman. We all agree that to love and to be loved is the greatest joy in every human being’s life. But possessing the heart of a woman is not an easy business. You will be welcomed by insults, hatred, embarrassment and humiliation. Only a man having patience and forgiveness will get what he is looking for. The portion of the sentence \u201cdon’t kick over the beehive\u201d could mean accepting the failure or the weakness of the other person without blaming him. The honey you want to gather is that precious result you are targeting. Yes, Barack Obama has understood this, that is why he accepted the humiliation and doom sayings of the Republicans as praises. This is what accommodates him in the White House.<\/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

\u201cNo one likes to take orders\u201d says Dale Carnegie. Can this advice be applied in all domains? The adolescents of the 21 century have no virus of seriousness in their blood if they are not controlled by an iron man or iron lady having a voice that inspires respect. Therefore it is usual to hear Managing Directors and employers giving orders to their employees as if they were in military camp. Why shouting has become a hobby for employers? He who behaves like a mature person will be treated like this. My people say \u201ca child, who knows how to eat, will eat in the same bowl with adults\u201d. In brief, our behaviors make our leaders treat us like children. We can correct it and change the order of things if we can change our minds.<\/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

During the reading, I did not come across any exercise in the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Admitting our mistakes when we go wrong is a helpful advice but it can be well shared among wise men. Sometimes we find it difficult to acknowledge our wrongdoings and ask for forgiveness. Some arrogant people believe that admitting one’s mistake is giving reason to the other person, so they continue arguing blindly, therefore the weapon of the offended get charged with anger and violence. The Bible advices its readers in the book of proverb\u201d a milk answer can calm anger but a violent answer increases it\u201d. This is my own translation of the French Bible. Then what should be the behavior of a wise man? Confessing your mistake in a sincere and humble tone of voice will calm the situation. Like the saying \u201ca confessed offense is half forgiven\u201d. Admitting one’s mistake is not possible without a small grain of humility and truth. However, it builds strong relationship and brings about confidence and respect to the offender.<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 10
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 10
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

The book \u201cREAL MAGIC\u201d of Wayne Dyer neither reveals the secrets of magicians nor exposes black power. It is a life changing book which opens our eyes on common but important methods which helps us correct our limitations and errors. Wayne Dyer uses life experiences and daily events to teach the reader. Everyone has the capacity to change his or her life by applying the methods revealed by the book. This procedure appears as magic because you and only you have the power to operate miracles in your life. The book transforms all the readers into magicians.<\/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 first important idea: The readiness of the student.<\/span><\/p>\n

The meaning of this idea is complete when we refer to the ancient Zen proverb which says \u201cwhen the student is ready the teacher will appear\u201d. Life is both a journey and a school and every living person can be identified as a student. Being a student is taking note of life events and learning from every single experience or bad adventure that you tried in life. Getting ready could mean preparing our minds to distinguish opportunities and make good use of them. It also means, developing the spiritual and intellectual maturity by broadening our minds to capture whatever we feel as necessary for our evolution. The appearance of the teacher is determined by the readiness of the student. That teacher will not compulsory appear in human form. The teacher as the author explained it, can be an event, a tape, a child or everything that gives a lesson and influence your thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The second important idea: the benefits of meditation<\/span><\/p>\n

The ordinary person will never experience happiness in life since the most important ingredients to make his life a better one are not revealed to him. Wayne Dyer uncovered one secret in producing real magic that is meditation. On the sport field and particularly in martial arts, the learner is asked to be practicing meditation. Many people do it without getting a result because they don\u2019t understand its importance. Meditating early in the morning like the author suggest is the best method. I often do it at 4:00 AM before Morning Prayer. It is advisable to lock up oneself in the room with a notice informing the visitors: \u201cno visitor, no disturbance today\u201d and all electronic gadgets such as mobile phone, fax, radio, television and computer must be put off. Meditating is bringing what does not exist into existence. It is adding some centimeters to your life expectancy. Why can\u2019t we give it a try?<\/span><\/p>\n

*The third important idea: love, the central ingredient of a relationship at purpose<\/span><\/p>\n

This feeling is understood in various ways. \u201cLove your neighbor like yourself\u201d says the Bible. But this biblical or divine recommendation seems outdated. Human beings have translated it in their own version according to which\u201d love he who loves you\u201d. In other words and with the adolescents, love is expressed toward the opposite sex because something is expected in return. As far as I\u2019m concerned, I tolerate girls easily no matter the degree of their offenses but I find it difficult to accept the words \u201cI am sorry\u201d from a male. Love as defined by Wayne Dyer, is giving without expecting anything in return. True love never seeks interest or reward. Love should be present in our relationships with our coworkers, friends, classmates, and spouses. Expressing love to your neighbors and spouses is securing a happy and healthy life.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fourth important idea: using your mind to manifest prosperity<\/span><\/p>\n

Every situation we encounter in life whether happy or unhappy comes from our minds. James Allen does not exaggerate when he entitled his novel \u201c As A Man Thinketh\u201d. A great number of people neglect this wealth creating and success achieving element which is the mind. Picturing success and prosperity in our minds is paving the way for wealth possession. This procedure works like magic. Focusing our minds on prosperity or money draws us closer to the wanted target. This implies that bad and unwanted events must be cleared from our spirits. Before taking my High School examination, I pictured my success and started planning the celebration party. It happened exactly as planned. No doubt the mind has a great power over the entire body.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The fifth important idea: acting prosperous<\/span><\/p>\n

Believing that you are prosperous will turn you into a free giver or a generous person. The holy Bible declares \u201cthere is more blessing in giving than in receiving\u201d. In my own case, I feel happy anytime I share something special with my friends. I always offer a gift to my fianc\u00e9e and it is neatly wrapped and accompanied by a love message. Her joy upon receiving the gift makes me happy. In addition, more we give more we receive. It is a natural formula that never lies. Three young men from Burkina Faso applied this rule and got a positive result. These gentlemen wanted to finance the presidential campaign of the late GNASSINGBE EYADEMA, ex-president of TOGO with 3,000,000 FCFA. The president was so pleased with their ideas and gave them a check of 300,000,000 FCFA in return. These lucky men returned home happily and created their companies. In reality they were seriously looking for money to fulfill their dreams.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The sixth important idea: eradicating the big lie from our minds<\/span><\/p>\n

Many of us grow with their family traditions. They condemn themselves by saying \u201cwe don\u2019t go to school in our family, none of my family members boarded an airplane before, I can\u2019t succeed in business because my uncles and my father harvest nothing but failure and financial loss in business\u201d. These arguments can be put in the box of self-limitation and disappointment. As far as I\u2019m concerned, my future, my projects and my success have nothing to do with the DNA of my father and my blessing has no link with the genetic formula of DOGBO family. I strongly believe that all the cosmic habit forces are forced to favor my success and prosperity on planet earth and where I am going has nothing to share with where I come from. Telling our minds that we can\u2019t do this and that is accepting the big lie which hinders the accomplishment of real magic in our lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

*The seventh important idea: creating health and healing miracles<\/span><\/p>\n

Health has no price; it means money can\u2019t buy it. Michael Jackson was wealthy enough to stop that disease which took him away and American Scientifics are eager to design whatever machine which can bring him to life if they have the possibility. But the Pop star said goodbye to his fans and his billions dollars could not save him. What a pity! A healthy man is a happy man and it is equal to a blessed man. This saying seems ridiculous but it has reason to be taken into consideration. We eat healthy foods in order to avoid ill health. But unfortunately this scientific belief fails to produce the wanted result. Rich men never lack foods, and their coffers are always full of red table win and drinks which are said to ease digestion. But why do they end up getting baskets of diseases? They forget to use their minds to achieve good health and create healing miracle. If the mind is powerful and sufficient enough to create health, then a poor man making good use of it can be healthy and live longer.<\/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

Meditation is a powerful exercise since it has positive results on our health. It joins the spirit to the mind in order to get a desired result. Meditation can be viewed as a silent prayer or the communication with the spiritual world. Japanese, Koreans and Chinese live longer because they possess the secret of meditation. Meditation helps me conjugate my projects in simple present. Clearly speaking, I see myself in the next level. The house I want to build, the happiness I want to enjoy with my wife and children, the latest and comfortable Chrysler I want to drive. I visualize everything I\u2019m struggling to possess.<\/span><\/p>\n

Love is a rare commodity which everyone wants to express. To love and to be loved is the greatest desire of humankind. When love is expressed toward a friend or a stranger it brings joy to both parties. For example anytime I send love messages to my fianc\u00e9e via mobile phone or email, my day becomes colored with joy. In the same way a simple \u201cI love you\u201d from her makes me smile for the whole day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Prosperity should begin on psychological level before appearing physically. When you are prepared to get your financial breakthrough, you are telling God that it is time for Him to act. If you think that prosperity is on your side, let people feel it. It says act prosperous. A prosperous man is willing to make donation regardless his monthly income. He always tries to satisfy the needs of his neighborhood. A prosperous man must not get the virus of \u201cthe big lie\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

In Africa, our traditions make us accept blindly false beliefs. Even an intellectual is closer to an illiterate when arguing concerning a specific topic. Those old beliefs are the roofs that prevent us from moving forward. Wayne Dyer calls it self-limitation. We need to overcome it. Great achievers and successful men have left self-limitation behind themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

The mind is essential in creating health and healing miracle. No food supplement, no medical advice or the most sophisticated machine built from the latest technology cannot be compared to the mind. See yourself everyday like the healthiest and happiest man. When you are sick, begin building your good health. The physician will give you injections and prescribe new drugs. But neither he nor the drugs can help you. You have the power to heal yourself. You and only you are your helper. Do it now! Never wait for tomorrow, you will make your miracle happen.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statement 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

Michel de Montaigne \u201cThe great and glorious masterpiece of a man is how to live with purpose\u201d. Living without purpose is wandering in the darkness. Setting a purpose in life is trying to accomplish one\u2019s mission on earth. Life gets its full sense and it is worth living as we are heading toward a fixed purpose. The author qualifies \u201cpurpose\u201d as \u201cthe great and glorious masterpiece\u201d to emphasize on its importance. Today our planet has seven billions inhabitants but only few of the world population can mention their purposes in life and stick to them. Despite all the godly qualities and gifts that human beings are given, living without purpose is joining the class of animals since their only worry is where to get food. However, we may have different purposes depending on what we want from life. Living with purpose signifies fixing one\u2019s heart on a sole ambition. It involves determination, courage, and controlled attention. To reach our purposes we must be stubborn to giving up by fueling our desires with stories of rigorous and successful people.<\/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 encounter many a time the Zen proverb \u201cWhen the student is ready the teacher will appear\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why is the author repeating the same sentence several times? According to the normal procedure, the teacher is supposed to keep the student awake and not the opposite. Very often, we get experience and lesson after passing through a life event. This implies that the teacher usually surprises the student. A sad and unpleasant situation will not give you the warning letter before happening. It will take you by surprise. Getting ready and waiting for the teacher\u2019s arrival is not universally shared.<\/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 contains so many mental exercises which will help the reader achieve real magic in his or her life only if those exercises are put into practice. The exercises are helpful since they produce physical and positive results.<\/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

The book reveals a very important question: where do I go when I die?<\/span><\/p>\n

Life after death or the continuation of our journey after death is a division point among the religious groups. Death is scientifically explained as the end of life. In other words it is the phenomenon that prevents our organs and cells from functioning. Death puts an end to the breathing. Thus the body becomes inactive and lifeless. Great philosophers like Bauvenark have no fear or respect for death. He declared \u201cwhen a child is born, he is old enough to die\u201d. He means death is natural and does not have any interpretation. So there is no journey after death. But does religion view death in the same way like science?<\/span><\/p>\n

Many religious groups believe in life after death. Christians believe that the soul will give account for the works done on earth after the death of the body. This belief reminds us that man is made up of three elements such as the body, the spirit and the soul. With this mentality taught by the Bible, Christians try to live according to the teachings of the Bible in order to be part-takers in the kingdom of God. Other books such as the Koran and Bhagavad Gita may have different interpretations of life after death. The big question is: where does the truth lie?<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 10
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 9
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would like to give it? 10<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Life is a marathon and to win as a champion, we need to be mentally prepared. Life events are examinations that we are all forced to take. Winners are helped not by their physical strength but mental one. But winners are not satisfied with their achievements; they always look ahead and face life trials with optimism. Denis is telling us that nobody is born champion but you can become a champion based on your mental abilities.<\/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 first important idea: You are your helper \u201cNobody else is going to take you fishing\u201d declares the author. But is he really talking about fish? It is high time we take our destinies in hands. No savior will come for you again. Jesus accomplished His mission about two thousand years ago. We have to stop looking left and right and asking ourselves when will our salvation date come? Sitting down with our arms folded will take us directly and surely to the palace of poverty and dependence which is closer to slavery. I used to say if our presidents (African presidents) can stop begging the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and developed countries for loans and help and manage our natural resources very well; Africa would develop because I strongly believe that Africa is a very rich and blessed continent. Unfortunately we are ruled by leaders who are waiting for donations. What knowledge have they acquired at prestigious universities in Europe and America? They have all studied in the \u201cfaculty of wait for miracles\u201d. No matter how huge the burden may look, tackle it with love, courage and determination. Self-reliance and determination will help you break mountains.<\/span><\/p>\n

The second important idea: full commitment at work and in business. Commitment is the mother of hard work. It is working with the body and the spirit. In other words, it is giving ourselves, our times and all our strengths to our careers and doing them with love and joy. A committed worker or employee cannot listen to hunger. He or she has no time to look into his watch. He will not complain about bad weather or tiredness. His dream is how to give out his best in increasing the company’s profit. The apostle Paulo was caught by commitment and spread the gospel to nations at a period where cars, motors and airplanes were legends. The commitment was his antidote against fatigue, hunger, persecution and discouragement. He was the greatest disciple of Jesus.<\/span><\/p>\n

The third important idea: the ten self-affirming beliefs. Every word we confess with our mouths and declare upon our lives can be taken as prophecy. The author labeled it \u201cself-affirming beliefs\u201d but I call it the prophetic declarations. I have a prayer booklet written by a Nigerian pastor. It contains daily prophetic declarations I repeat every day upon my life after Morning Prayer. These include: success in business, wealth in abundance, marital happiness, good health, longevity, financial breakthrough etc. Denis Waitley’s purpose of framing the self-affirming beliefs on his desk is to make it a daily prayer accompanied by an unshakable belief. I will do the same that means I will photocopy it and frame it against the wall in my room.<\/span><\/p>\n

The fourth important idea: Be the role model in your society. Any order you want your children or employees to execute, you must show the good example. We all agree that children copy quickly what their parents are doing. The most frequent example is that some children start using sex as early as two to three years. Why so? These kids are sharing the same room even the same bed with their parents so they have being witnessing love making every night without the parents’ knowledge. Those kids will take that information to their comrades and they will be doing it with children of their age group. A man, who usually returns home drunk and starts beating his wife, is passing the same information to his son. An employer who comes late to the office will be held responsible for his company’s bankruptcy. Brighten your corner with your behavior, show your children what you want them to do; this will spare you all the troubles of parenthood.<\/span><\/p>\n

The fifth important idea: The passion for living. Living a long life does not depend on wealth. The proof is that some wealthy men do not enjoy life before dying. Living longer is related to a good environment in which you have good relationship with people in your neighborhood. It is linked to the love you have for your daily activities. It supposes living happily as if everything was at your disposal. The inhabitants of Niger are said to be the poorest in Africa. But why do they live longer despite their unbearable living conditions? They don’t care about tomorrow. They only struggle to get their daily food. They don’t know what stress is. They live without worrying for a better tomorrow and they are proud of their activities like breeding and small trades.<\/span><\/p>\n

The sixth important idea: be happy and optimistic every day. Being happy every morning and facing the day with optimism has a positive impact on one’s daily activities. I make it a habit by playing gospel music every morning and I recite encouraging Bible verses. This is my antidote against frustration and stress because psychologically I am prepared to overcome the challenges brought by the day and I declare victory upon them. To demonstrate this happiness in your life you must not forget to put smile on your face. You can also try to visit people that encourage you and support your viewpoints.<\/span><\/p>\n

The seventh important idea: Fixing deadlines for your achievements. Any project or dream you want to realize must have a deadline otherwise it will be caught by the \u201cvirus of procrastination\u201d. If the pharmaceutical products and the consuming goods have expiring dates, we need to set deadlines for our achievements. It says by the age of fifty, I must be a billionaire and I will lead a serious battle against poverty and hunger. As a victim, I know how painful it is to bear these burdens in silence. Leaders of developed countries always fix a date for their countries’ development. Both the ruling party and the opposition party work seriously toward this goal in order to make it a success. That is why the Kenyans have to understand that president Barack Obama cannot solve their problems since he is following the American dream and frontier. However, deadlines can become sources of stress if they are not respected in achieving our goals.<\/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

Whatever you can do, do it without waiting for help. It means laziness must be replaced by self-reliance. A village chief asked the young men of his community to help him clean his farm. A date was fixed for workers. The chief and his children started the work earlier waiting for the arrival of the young men who never came. On his return, the youths came to him for apology. He answered them: I am not sorry because you didn’t come to help me but because you didn’t eat the food I ordered for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

Full commitment must be the first quality of a servant or an employee. For your company or business to win the competition as far as getting new contracts is concerned, your employees must wear \u201cthe jersey of full commitment\u201d. This can be possible if the employer appreciates every single effort his work force is doing by giving them bonuses and incentives. Everybody gets busy and work tirelessly whenever there is a reward.<\/span><\/p>\n

Life becomes interesting when it is fueled by encouraging words called self-affirming beliefs. Repeating them every morning is a victory over the day and it triggers the ambition to succeed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Having passion for life is an ingredient for longevity. That is living according to a purpose and do not let yourself be entertained by life problems. Declare daily \u201cI will come out of every life situation better and not bitter\u201d. As we have passion for life, it means we are filled by optimism and empowered with positive mental attitudes. Our PMA must be at work without rest if we want to live a productive and long life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Champions are ambitious, they set deadlines for their achievements and they respect their calendars. Even God has finished the creation work in six days. That implies He has fixed a deadline before starting His work.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLosers let it happen, winners make it happen\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It is popularly said: failure is not getting a bad result after trying to achieve something but it is having tried nothing at all. In the same way a loser is inhabited by the spirit of self-condemnation, lack of ambition and determination. A loser supports himself with words like: \u201cit is not my fault, it is the work of the devil, I am not the only one, many people have failed before, and I can’t blame myself\u201d. A winner is not born with a crown on his head or favored by a supernatural force. He or she is backed by courage, the desire to be the best of the best. Is it not normal when people say \u201cwinners never quit and quitters never win?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

John Paul Jones was a sailor whose ship was attacked and sinking, most of his crew slaughtered and his own arm nearly torn off, the enemy asked him if he was ready to surrender. He screamed back: \u201cHell no! We haven’t even begun to fight yet\u201d. And he was right. He hadn’t but he did, and he went on to win the battle. Like John Paul Jones, you can make it happen if you are stubborn to giving up.<\/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

\u201cTo travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive\u201d declares Denis Waitley. His statement is the opposite of the common adage: \u201cin every battle the result is more important than what you go through\u201d. Most of the time, we start our businesses with difficulties, we are lived by the fear of failure, the fear of loss and disappointment. But when the business starts flourishing we immediately forget the hard journey made before reaching success. \u201cTraveling hopefully\u201d in the author’s version could mean fighting with assurance and optimism. But what if the \u201carrival\u201d (the result) is catastrophic?<\/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 contains only autogenic exercises which are related to the relaxation techniques. They are helpful because they reduce the stress level.<\/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

\u201cReward yourself for what you’ve tried to accomplish\u201d, this sentence can be read on page two hundred and seventeen of the book.<\/span><\/p>\n

Great achievers, successful men, and champions are never satisfied with their achievements. However, as we motivate ourselves, by fixing deadlines for our projects; it is normal to reward our body when the job is well done and on time. Why can’t you plan a holiday party with your friends and families? A sincere and romantic encounter with one’s wife or loved one is a reward. In African societies, the husbands reward their wives’ activities and daily troubles with love making. It is a sign of gratitude and reward. Some civil servants share some bottles of beer after work as a reward for the energy used during the day.<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 9
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 10
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Giant Steps<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

To stand and make giant steps, we need to take big decisions, set goals and ask ourselves empowering questions about what we want from life. The author displays in his book the fundamental elements of a productive life. In brief we must not crawl like babies but we shall walk like giants in life.<\/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 first important idea: decision making<\/span><\/p>\n

Life is a choice. Living a prosperous and healthy life depends upon your decision. You can be born in poverty but dying in poverty is both a choice and a sin. People live without a goal that means they do not decide about what they want from life. I decide and I make it a daily prayer to do everything to eradicate poverty in my life and in the lives of my future generations.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The second important idea: goal setting<\/span><\/p>\n

Successful men and great achievers are those who have set goals in life and they are working tirelessly toward it. If today the United States of America is developed through the hard work of African slaves, it is not a miracle. The ancestors of today\u2019s Americans have visualized a powerful and economically developed country and they set a goal. The biggest secret of American prosperity is that America always has new frontier according to what they want to get as result.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The third important idea: Turning pain into pleasure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pains make us loose hope and sometimes influence our thoughts. A great number of people start lamenting when they encounter pain in a situation. Women are blessed as they quickly forget their labor pains as soon as they see their babies. Success means turning pain into stepping stone to reach everlasting pleasure and happiness. Like the adage \u201cnothing good comes easy\u201d so everything painful is always followed by glory. Serious businessmen are those who smell poverty in their childhoods. They learn from their pains to build a better tomorrow.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The fourth important idea: Having empowering beliefs<\/span><\/p>\n

Empowering beliefs signify positive beliefs. Anything we conceive in our minds and believe in our hearts work like an engine which drives us to achievement and success. A mother of six, left home on a market day empty handed but she promised to feed her children by the end of the day. In the market, she collected some items on credit, sold them and got her profit. She returned home with food and little money to the surprised of her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The fifth important idea: Asking empowering questions<\/span><\/p>\n

Questions always come with answers. The solution will appear as we keep on asking questions about how to solve the problem. Empowering questions lead to change-producing answers. I often ask myself: what can I do to improve my living conditions? What are the do\u2019s and don\u2019t to succeed? Everyday after addressing these questions to myself, I get new answers. Curiosity leads to knowledge and knowledge produces change. A small boy always watches his parents fighting. He was unable to stop them. One day he asked his parents: Mum and Dad what can you do to make me happy? Both parents were ashamed to answer. They gazed at each other and promised not to fight again.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The sixth important idea: Mind your language<\/span><\/p>\n

Words have power. The Bible lets us believe that everything was created by the power of the word. Words are bullets which destroy; they can repair and bring peace. About two months ago, I sent an electronic message to my girl friend and she misunderstood a word used. She bathed me with insults and threatened to leave me. The following day, early at dawn, I called her and told: \u201cBaby I love you, I respect you so much and I will never insult you. No matter what you say I will love you more\u201d. She was amazed and ashamed by my response. During our next encounter she apologized and rewarded me with kisses.<\/span><\/p>\n

* The seventh important idea: Be a reader<\/span><\/p>\n

A leader must be a reader and a reader is a learner. Knowledge is acquired through reading. Every language that is learned must be read and spoken. Reading help us polish our speaking and master the grammar. But it is not easy to have one\u2019s eyes on books without the love for reading. Wise parents read stories for their children in order to push them to love reading. I will buy story books with pictures for my future babies like their playing materials instead of toys and computer games because the physical and mental development of a person begins as early as his childhood.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Any decision we take whether good or bad, influences our lives. Taking a decision is one thing but respecting is another thing. I am from a polygamous family and I have seen all its inconveniences. For that reason I vow to hang on one woman in order to have peace and love in my matrimonial home.<\/span><\/p>\n

If we are asked to enumerate our goals, we will all give out nice ideas and exciting projects. But a goal without a serious ambition remains a mere wish. My greatest goal in life is to help people overcome poverty and hunger. It says I must do everything to heal that disease in my own life. FAFADO foundation (my future foundation) will finance the studies of poor children and individual projects and businesses. The foundation and its website will be officially launched when I am financially ready.<\/span><\/p>\n

Physical or mental pain makes life bitter and therefore unbearable. A disappointment led me into serious mental pain. I lost hope and I was asking myself what is the use of living. In the midst of that pain I discovered IIGL. Its books help me digest my pains and give me hope for a prosperous future. I began to understand that every allowed pain is purposed by God to take us to everlasting glory.<\/span><\/p>\n

Nothing can be achieved without belief. Empowering beliefs contain the germ of determination and a burning desire to accomplish whatever we plan to do. My belief is that whatever a human being can do, I can do the same. That empowering belief helps me try adventures that I know nothing about. In November 2004, I left Lom\u00e9-TOGO for Accra-GHANA after my High School Diploma with the intention of getting a job. I haven\u2019t visited that town before but I was given an oral description of where my grand-mother lives. I took my bag got the bus ticket. In Accra I was helped by people locate her house. She was surprised because she never gave me her address and I got a teaching appointment in a private school.<\/span><\/p>\n

If man is the master of his thoughts and the shaper of his destiny, he is again his own prophet by the power of the words he utters everyday. Every word we pronounce on our lives or address a friend must be well weighed. Words make us loose our tempers; they can calm an angry heart no matter the offense. Positive and encouraging words are what I have decided to be using in order to change situations in my life.<\/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

\u201cImagination is more powerful than knowledge\u201d Einstein.<\/span><\/p>\n

We all know and confess that knowledge is power. But why is Einstein affirming the contrary? Nobody can ignore the power of creative imagination. Mental picture, dream, visualization and imagination break the door of impossibility and the invisible. Whatever we conceive in our minds is brought to existence. It works like magic. Imagination is the external force that everyone must develop and exploit whereas knowledge is an acquisition. Thousands of people can have the same knowledge and get the same result but imagination is individual and accomplishes unbelievable things when it is nourished with positive and strong desire.<\/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 am surprised to learn that health and fitness are not the same. Many people are carrying that confusion and they force themselves by getting registered in fitness clubs. But can fitness be separated from good health? Science let us know that an inactive muscle becomes weak and dies. Fitness of the body especially through regular morning jogging is a good point for the blood circulation and can decrease the risk of heart attack. Or shall we conserve our health by avoiding fitness exercises? I don\u2019t think so. \u201cHe who wants a ripe mango on top of the mango tree must not fear the risk of accident\u201d says the adage. Everything has a price and good health cannot be gotten at a chip price or by living a passive life. However it is important to choose the correct fitness exercise which corresponds to our body\u2019s capacity in order to boost our health.<\/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 exercises on page 286 and 287 of the book about our moving-toward values and moving-away-form help me evaluate my belief and it is a very exercise good.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThe secret to living is giving\u201d says Anthony Robbins. We believe that amassing wealth and money or moving from promotion to promotion is the key to life and longevity. Living happily is sharing your time, your experiences, and your knowledge with your neighbors. \u201cThere is much blessing in giving than in receiving\u201d declares the Bible. People who are willing to serve their communities are naturally blessed with good health. As you spend time helping your friend, Nature will favor you.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the other side, selfishness leads to greediness and is rewarded by stress. When someone is stuck to his personal agenda believing that through his own efforts he can conquer the whole world in one day, he or she will die in disappointment. Being generous and cultivating the spirit of service constitutes remedies for life problems.<\/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
\n<\/span>B. How helpful were the contents? 9
\n<\/span>C. How easy was it to understand? 10
\n<\/span>D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
\n<\/span>E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Brian Tracy makes it clear that finding solutions to your problems and achieving your biggest goals are possible by activating your super conscious mind. That expensive and unlimited power hidden in us helps millions of people who discovered it and made good use of it. To get faster solutions, your goals must be clear and reviewed intensely and daily. This will let your super conscious mind know how serious you are and how fast you want to achieve them.<\/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 example from your own life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Goal setting<\/span><\/p>\n

Goal setting is present in almost all the IIGL books. No doubt it is the basis of success. The author explained the importance of having a clear and written goal. Why it is necessary to put our goals in written form?<\/span><\/p>\n

Anything we say orally can vanish and can be easily forgotten. But when we write them down and review them regularly and daily, we are breathing the aroma of success which will be manifested as a burning desire. Before I complete the Level One study, I set my cherished goal that is wealth creation. I estimate my fortune in 500 billions CFA by the age of 50. Therefore, I list in my note book the names of the businesses I am planning to create from the smallest to the biggest and the biggest does not mean the limit or the satisfaction point. My crazy desire is to eradicate poverty in my life and in the lives of my offspring.<\/span><\/p>\n

Create a prosperous future for yourself<\/span><\/p>\n

Dreaming about a better future all the time makes us believe that what we are seeing in that imaginary future is possible. Planning the future gives us hope. My friends and my neighbors cannot understand why I sing gospel loudly at home like the happiest man. My secret is that I solve my problems by seeing their solutions in a near future. In my note book, I named the businesses I will run in the future, the children I will have and I have already drawn the plan of my dream house even though my present situation does not allow me to achieve only one. I believe that seeing myself like a happy father and a successful businessman is not an offense against God. So why should I stop dreaming?<\/span><\/p>\n

Starting Over<\/span><\/p>\n

Most of the times we fail to achieve the goal that we have set. It is not a sin and we cannot blame ourselves. But do we all have the courage to try it again? To start over after you failed to achieve a goal means you have taken into account the past errors and corrected them. It supposes you have experiences to move faster than ever. In 2003, I failed at my High School diploma. During the vacation time I was both sad and annoyed because it is shameful to be caught up by my friends of lower class. I couldn\u2019t digest my failure. I even thought of changing the school. But after that brainstorming I decided to stay and start over. I went for my exam report card to check on my marks. I saw that I got a miserable mark in German. So I restart everything from zero by reminding myself that I have to do better than the new students. The next year, I got my High school diploma easily and I forgot my failure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Have a Desire<\/span><\/p>\n

Having the desire to possess something can lead to goal setting. A person without a desire is not meant for success in life. The desire to get money will push you look for a job or a business since it is clear that money is got from the sweat. That desire must keep burning in our hearts so as not to be overcome by laziness and procrastination. Desire shows us the way to the achievement of whatever we want to get. It can be compared to an engine which makes man move toward success and achievement.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two major obstacles to success.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fear and doubt are known as the obstacles to any achievement. Fear and doubt weaken our capacities in handling any major goal. Fear of failure leads to laziness and procrastination. The audacity of undertaking a project or realizing a goal disappears whenever fear is given place. Brave soldiers are those who master their fears. To accomplish something challenging in life we need to put fear under our feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Your relationships contribute to your success.<\/span><\/p>\n

There is no independent human being. We need each other in one domain or the other. A boss cannot feel important without the respect and the service given to him by his servants or employees. On the other hand the servant cannot get his daily bread without obeying to his boss\u2019s instructions. In business the rule is simple and clear to understand: \u201ctreat your clients and business associates with love and respect or else your business will go down\u201d. That is the reason why arrogant people cannot succeed in business. Maintaining serious and honest relationships with our neighbors, coworkers and customers is not only beneficial for business but also for our own happiness. How can your neighbors come to your rescue if you are not in good term with them? This confirms the importance of the divine law\u201d love your neighbor like yourself\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Time management<\/span><\/p>\n

To achieve a goal one must not neglect time management. We all agree that a goal must have a deadline. It says achieving a goal depends upon the way we have control over the time. In developing countries, our problem is not only about money. We have no respect for the time. It is frequent to see people coming to work, a meeting or attending a church service on different hours. The African reality is that everybody has his or her own watch. Since time management is a skill any ambitious person can correct himself or herself by learning it.<\/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

Setting goals for oneself for a period of time is like drawing his time table. Nothing can be accomplished and was accomplished without having a plan about how the thing will look like. The secret of success in life relays on goal setting. That implies, what do you want from life, when do you want to get it, and how to get it. As I have set my goals, write them on a sheet of paper and paste them on a wall, they remind my super conscious mind that it has an order to obey.<\/span><\/p>\n

To facilitate the achievement of a goal it is important to behave as if the goal is already achieved. To create a prosperous future for yourself is synonym of creative imagination. It makes the super conscious mind believe that the goal is achievable. I admire wealthy families, and contemplate luxurious houses and I see myself as the right owner. This means I conjugate my future dream into present tense.<\/span><\/p>\n

Failure precedes success but to come out victorious one needs to start over anytime failure occurs. Successful people have tried more than one business before reaching their current levels. They are strengthened by the determination which helps them restart from zero.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is also important to know that our relationships play a major role in achieving our goals. The author declares that \u201cNo one does it alone\u201d. Everyone has been helped by someone in the realization of his goals. Success in business like in any other field is based on connection. To be connected means to be in relationship with people around your business life. We all need people who can bring positive changes in our lives. Good relationships with the right people will lift you from zero to become a hero. Therefore it is normal to build and maintain a good relationship with our coworkers and friends. It says they must be treated with love and respect if we want to get their confidence.<\/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

George Santana:\u201d Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The past is always bitter and full of regrets. But past mistakes must not be forgotten if we want to reach success. Knowing where you come from can help you know where you want to get. Acknowledging the past mistakes and misfortunes prevents us from falling into the same trap. We get experiences and lessons out of past events. The future cannot be built by throwing away past stones and a better tomorrow is not possible if one does not stop to have a look at his or her past life. Wise men take decision based on their past experiences and never allow themselves to be caught by past mistakes.<\/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

The relationship between fear and ignorance in my opinion cannot survive. The author explained that fear can be caused by ignorance. But how can I fear something I don\u2019t know or I haven\u2019t seen before? The roaring of the lion cannot make me run away until I see it. Usually we have confidence in ourselves if we are to meet a situation or an enemy that we have no information about. For example a baby cannot fear a snake since he doesn\u2019t know the danger in playing with it. A popular adage confirms that \u201cthe death that you fear is what kills you\u201d. To make it clear, some HIV\/AIDS patients are not killed by the virus itself but by dwelling on the fear of death.<\/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

There is no exercise 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><\/p>\n

Fear is a mental poison which hinders our achievements. When it is rooted in our super conscious minds, it opens the gate for failure in everything we undertake. But fear has not only negative aspects. It can be mastered and transformed into a guide to reach success.<\/span><\/p>\n

Since the creation, everything was created with its contrary. If courage is rated as the most important virtue, it cannot exist and we will not acknowledge its importance without the existence of fear. The attitude of confronting one\u2019s fear increases the level of courage. Brian Tracy makes it clear that\u201d everyone is afraid\u201d. No doubt we all have a drop of fear in our hearts. If not who can catch the bullets with his hands or stay at one place upon hearing gunshot? Anytime I fear to accomplish something or fear is trying to take control over my mind, I scream confidently and I start proclaiming victory over the thing in order to increase my self-esteem. Fear is an instrument to measure courage.<\/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? 10<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 10<\/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

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People<\/strong><\/span>
\n Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo\/Ghana)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Stephen R. Covey through this book reveals simple but profitable techniques for both parental and business monitoring. In an English that is highly advanced and full of figures of speech Stephen offers a free mirror to individuals, couples and business executives to check their positions and bring them on track especially those who want to change and move forward.<\/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. The power of paradigm.<\/span><\/p>\n

Stephen explains the word paradigm as the way of perceiving, understanding or interpreting something to cut it short. Surely the wrong perception of things leads us to fake results. When I was a child I had many ambitions which I can call today: wishes. Since an ambition without determination is a simple wish. I though everything could be gotten without sweat. I was blaming my father for not being able to buy a car like my uncles. But as years went by, I began to understand that things are not always easy the way we see them. In my own case I was calculating my years and assigning goals to them but up to now I was not able to achieve one. Life has it own calendar. For instance, today many young men see marriage as ownership over a woman in order to get daily sexual satisfaction. Or they let themselves be deceived by romantic movies forgetting that they have huge responsibilities to assume. They end up regretting and regarding the lady they have admired as their worst enemies. But when we take time to get the correct map, the journey through life will be trouble-free.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. The way we see the problem is the problem.<\/span><\/p>\n

This point corresponds exactly to the situation I went through. Problems have brought me on my knees leaving me with no hope for life. Even the encouraging words of friends and men of God have no impact on me. My moral collapsed like a store building. I allowed this to happen because I dwelt constantly in the problems like being in a room without window. I thought there was no exit. Even the life-changing experiences and ideas which I read in IIGL books and which were nourishing my soul vanished. But just one day I got mentally recovered as I hear a pastor quoting Ecclesiastes 9: 4 (the Bible king James Version) \u201cFor him that is joined to the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion.\u201d Automatically, I saw myself in another position and myself-image has changed. I realized that every problem has expiry date; therefore I declare that mine has expired. But if you see the problem as huge and stubborn to solve, so shall it be.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. A new level of thinking.<\/span><\/p>\n

The best way to solve a problem is to push your thought to next and positive level. By doing so you are forcing the problem to leave. A patient on hospital bed should start planning his or her next action out of the hospital room. Stephen Covey is in the same line like James Allen by emphasizing on thought. Yes it is clear that a new level of thinking will take to the next level in life.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Having a personal mission statement.<\/span><\/p>\n

Nothing can be done without a plan and no country can function without a constitution. A personal mission statement is a route to success since it embodies realization of our goals. It is according to me a personal life calendar which can help us accomplish our goals in life. Like a constitution no line must be erased. It must be vigorously observed if we keep tight to our goals.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. The disease of money-centeredness.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is true that most of our worries are financial ones, but being focused on money all the time can make you neglect your wife and children. Nowadays, due to the world economic crisis and the hunger to gather wealth, some businessmen have become busy men by chasing money all the time. Their movements are from one hotel to the next airport. Where have they left their families? Money, as the author said, cannot provide guidance and wisdom but a certain degree of security and power. As far as I am concerned, I will give priority to my family. Money will be there to make life easy for us. Like the woman declares in her personal mission statement: \u2018\u2019 money will be my servant and not my master\u2019\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. The power of visualization.<\/span><\/p>\n

Every successful journey starts from the mind. What a man thinks is what he gets physically. In brief \u2018\u2019the thought is the father of man\u2019\u2019 says a philosopher. Visualization forces our subconscious mind to accept what we are imagining and every visualized project is brought to existence. My only hope and source of happiness is visualization. That is, if I forget the challenges and I am trying to see myself in a better future with the kind of life I want to live, I become happy.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. The emotional bank account.<\/span><\/p>\n

When we sow good habits is our relationships, we are making deposits which of course strengthen the relationships. Having confidence in a spouse, showing kindness to a child or keeping promise towards a friend are huge deposits. On the other hand, the withdrawal such as imposing personal view points to someone or giving no respect to a neighbor will not help the emotional bank account to grow. For example, when I express love and confidence to my girl-friend I get the same feeling as result. But when I doubt about her fidelity, she reacts with anger and sometimes I get insulted.<\/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

Getting the correct paradigm for your life is having the appropriate map for your journey. But this requires a spiritual and intellectual maturity. Young people easily jump into fast conclusion and later discover their mistakes. I was once undertaking a project about poultry farm simply because I heard a friend saying that is it a lucrative business. So I was only calculating the monthly profits, but I didn\u2019t take time to budget all the expenses as far as the health of the chickens, their foods, and other facilities are concerned. I ended up in a big trouble.<\/span><\/p>\n

In order to forget that problem, I began thinking positively about a new business. You can\u2019t solve a problem if you are seeing yourself constantly in that problem. A new level of thinking is a must to relieve overwhelming troubles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Success in life can be achieved by having a personal mission statement which is your personal calendar. And each month must carry an achievable goal. I have been repeating to myself even though I am thirty two years with no important money in my account, I boldly declare that I will start counting money in millions of US dollar by forty. This has nothing to do with my current living condition or parental poverty legacy. I simply believe it\u2019s possible through my own effort and determination.<\/span><\/p>\n

It forces me to start visualizing myself as a wealthy man. Visualization is conjugating your future project in simple present tense. Visualization is also known as mental exercise in order to achieve happiness. Many a times, when I come from visualization voyage I sigh heavily with hope and my spirit is fueled with determination to run race.<\/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 were important to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eleanor Roosevelt said, \u201cNo one can hurt you without your consent.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The way we receive mockery of others, especially by repeating those words to ourselves is bitter than how the words are uttered. My grandmother used to tell me the best answer to insult or provocation is to keep silent. As a child I never understood her proverb but when I grew old I realize that she was right. A silent person is the most dangerous person since nobody knows what he is planning. Paying attention to other people\u2019s view points about ourselves brings us nothing but frustration and regress. In addition, your offenders can hurt you if only you don\u2019t love yourself or you have a poor self-image and a very low self-esteem. As my pastor used to say: \u201cif you give the devil one centimeter he will take one kilometer.\u201d Simply put don\u2019t give your opponents the opportunity to destroy your 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

Your economic security does not lie in your job, it lies in your power to produce- to think, to learn, to create, to adapt. That is true financial independence. It is not having wealth, it\u2019s the power to produce wealth. This declaration made by Stephen on looks strange and meaningless in the ears of an ordinary person like me.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why are struggling for job if not economic security? Any uneducated person will agree with me that wealth creation is the result of saving and investment. Saving implies deposit of part of one\u2019s monthly income or salary. How can we value the power of wealth production if one cannot be physically seen among wealthy people? Or is it not popularly accepted that it is good to convert ideas into money? Sometimes, I find difficult to respect lectures and PhD holders in economics who trained students to become potential bank managers but they themselves didn\u2019t get the opportunity to manage micro finance. Trying to explain this protocol otherwise will bring confusion and disagreement.<\/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 author gives an observation exercise. Truly my answer is purely different. The woman must between 55 and 60 years. But I am sorry I cannot see her other face for serious criticism.<\/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

Frankl\u2019s experience has confirmed the popular saying: \u201cYour destiny lies in your hands. But the question is what freedom could he have in prison room? Of course he used his memory and imagination. It is true that Frankl was not an ordinary person whose mental force is limited by what his eyes are seeing. The late South African president Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela said: Prison gives you one thing, it gives you time to think. And Frankl used that opportunity through self-awareness to free himself mentally from his Nazi captors. From 2012 up to May 2013, I went through a situation which can be named spiritual manipulation of the brain and I came to conclude that a man\u2019s strength is not in his muscles but in his brain. When you are mentally weak you can be easily defeated by any situation and your physical appearance will portray your mental. But if a man could get mental freedom in jail, it means that prison is just a resting place and it can\u2019t kill a dream or the dreamer.<\/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? 8<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 5<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it others? 7<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 7<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nonviolent Communication<\/strong><\/span>
\n Assessment by Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo\/Ghana)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Marshall has loaded the reader with vital information in conflict resolution, business life and good parenting. He underlines the unknown behaviors and daily mistakes that jeopardize communication making it tough for even couples to understand each other and communicate effectively. NVC stands for the laws of communication in the betterment of personal relationship.<\/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. Accepting blame as a means of communication.<\/span><\/p>\n

A good communicator is a good listener. This implies giving full attention to the other person to express his anger or disagreement. The person is fifty percent satisfied because he is sure to be heard and understood. \u201cA peaceful answer appeases anger but a violent response activates the fire,\u201d says the proverb. Diplomatically conflicts are solved by listening to both parties. In my own case I humbly accept the accusations of my girl-friend by apologizing in order to avoid quarrel. This resolves in the increase of her love for me.<\/span><\/p>\n

ii. The secret of compassionate communication.<\/span><\/p>\n

The tongue is a weapon and words are bullets. Our words can bring peace in a country, or a home when they are soft and peaceful. On the other hand, they can burn a whole nation to ashes when these words are heart-provoking. When a captain of an army utters the word\u2019 fire\u2019\u2019 it means soldiers will start losing human lives in both camps. Nice buildings and busy places become quiet like a cemetery. The world and history books will never forget the names of great leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi (India), Nelson Rolilhala Mandela (South Africa) and my mentor and prophet Martin Luther king (USA) who communicated and transformed situations nonviolently. It is unfortunate that they all died without being awarded with the Nobel peace prize. As a man I can confirm that before you can conquer the heart of a lady, you need to choose the right words to express your intention. Some reggae musicians peacefully advised African leaders about their misconducts through music which is another sweet way of communication. \u201cLife and death lie in the power of the tongue\u2019\u2019 Proverb 18:21 the Bible, we need to be careful about the language we use.<\/span><\/p>\n

iii. The act of hearing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Communication goes along with the ability to listen. This principle is mainly used in phone conversation. To give a convincing answer to someone, you need to take time and hear the person out. Some people preach without communicating. At the end they feel disappointed to realize that the message was not carried out. The ability to listen attentively to your partner shows respect and concern for him or her. Communication obeys the law of \u2018\u2019give and take\u2019\u2019. Anybody with a good listening ability will greatly influence the audience whenever he is making a point.<\/span><\/p>\n

iv. Avoiding moralistic judgments and comparisons known as life-alienating communication products.<\/span><\/p>\n

Human beings find it difficult to understand that everybody is specially made by God. There may be resemblance and scientists can try to clone everybody but we will never behave the same way. It is scientifically approved that our finger prints are different, so are our destinies and attitudes. Judging one another based on one particular living standard or moral value can create a gap between one another. A very destructive factor is the psychological pressure put on somebody by comparing him or her to another person. It destroys self-image and increases frustration. A school child who is constantly compared to his peers lives in self-condemnation anytime his performance is below the average. It is clear to conclude that moralistic judgments and comparisons must be put in the dustbin of NVC.<\/span><\/p>\n

v. The protective use of force.<\/span><\/p>\n

Talking about force in NVC seems paradoxical. However the use of force in conflict resolution is universally accepted. NVC is fruitless for opponents who do not understand the language of peace. The Ivorian presidential election in West Africa was the example. The French, the African and the UN soldiers have come together to over throne the loser Laurent Gbagbo. It means all the diplomatic ways used to solve the crisis were wastes of energy. He understood the language of guns better.<\/span><\/p>\n

vi. Coping with punitive force.<\/span><\/p>\n

The punitive force cannot be included in the chapter of protective use of force. In the case of parenting, children who are used to cane become more stubborn if physical punishment is part of their daily agenda. They pretend to obey to avoid punishment but NVC is totally absent. The immediate consequence of physical punishment is the transmission of violence. The punished child tries to apply the same anger and punishment on someone younger than him. As far as I am concerned I was brought up in a peaceful environment and I believe my children will enjoy the same thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

vii. The hunger for appreciation<\/span><\/p>\n

Appreciation gives confidence and courage to the benefactor. It is quite normal to encourage employee if he or she does a good job. Even God is pleased with praises. In so many places, blame or warning is quickly displayed when something goes wrong. Therefore appreciation must follow good actions. Even if the appreciation is exaggerated it gives unlimited and unforgettable joy. A wife who is daily showered with appreciation will always please her husband. We can agree that the hunger for appreciation will surely attract excellent 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, why?<\/span><\/p>\n

Accepting blames by putting oneself in the shoes of the offended person helps reduce his anger. This technique can be paired with the act of hearing. To hear means to listen without arguments. It could mean to accept or swallow willingly all the rubbish the angry person is vomiting. A married woman with this knowledge can easily control a stubborn husband and avoid domestic violence. I always give opportunity to my fiancee to express her disagreement, later when her temper becomes cold I hold her head in my hands and I begin making my point. No matter my offense the case is always forgiven.<\/span><\/p>\n

In order to vivify NVC, moralistic judgments and comparisons should be out of our expressions. It is humiliating when we see ourselves below the average of the comparison barometer. Some parents compare their wards to their peers by saying\u2019\u2019 why can\u2019t you be like A?\u2019\u2019 or \u2018\u2019 I wish you could act like B\u2019\u2019 forgetting everyone has his potentials in him. Moralistic judgments and comparison will bring no positive effect but frustration. I believe I am carrying a special destiny and I refuse to be compared to others and I reject self-comparison.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can protective use of force go with NVC? Force doesn\u2019t mean violence; it\u2019s the ultimate way of settling a matter when all pacific means are fruitless. If force is not necessary there should be no military man or police to watch over the laws of a country. People will always want to behave in their own ways. In the absence of force or authority the society will be compared to wild life where the strongest are feeding on the weakest. Force is applied when a situation is deteriorating.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Quotes: Are there any statement 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 more faithfully you listen to the voice within you, the better you will hear what is happening outside.\u201d Dag Hammarskjold, former UN Secretary General.<\/span><\/p>\n

Every human being has the same need. It can be material, psychological, emotional or financial. To understand nature we need first of all to understand our own being. A medical doctor who was once healed from a particular disease can faithfully diagnose and treat a patient who is presenting the same symptoms. In order words you have to go through pain to be able to describe it and provide advice to another victim. Jesus Christ sets the example by coming in human flesh simply to experience our pains and needs. To listen to the inner voice could mean understanding or acknowledging your true nature.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Is there any thing 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

Talking about marital life, a woman expressed herself in these words, \u201che is not there to make me happy, nor am I here to create happiness for him.\u201d (Page twenty-seven, last sentence)<\/span><\/p>\n

What is the essence of marriage if it cannot lead to mutual happiness? The first rule in relationship is to please your partner by doing things that makes him or her happy. I hope that a sincere gesture of a man towards his wife will reward him with unspeakable affection from the wife. It is commonly shared that you take your wife\/girl-friend out and she will compensate you nicely in bedroom. A couple always collaborates to make their lives easier and enjoyable. If my partner cannot make me happy then why will I endorse her charge by investing my resources into a covenant called marriage?<\/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 does not contain any exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Was there any thing you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be so humble, you are not that great.\u201d Golda Meir, former Israeli prime minister.<\/span><\/p>\n

This statement can\u2019t be easily shared by the ordinary man. It is rather known that humility is the way to greatness. The Lord Jesus showed the example by washing the feet of his disciples. Humility is not synonym of humiliation or slavery. It means showing your availability to render services to others. In nonviolent communication, humility could mean the willingness to listen to the speaker with patience and full attention. Wherever the rights of others are being neglected and selfishness is in control, harmony is replaced by rebellion and NVC becomes nonexistent.<\/span><\/p>\n

Please rate the following questions on a scale of 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? 8<\/span>
\n C. How easy was it to understand? 9<\/span>
\n D. Would you recommend it to others? 9<\/span>
\n E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9<\/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 Dogbo Kofi Fafali (Togo) 1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book? James Allen is reminding people of the strength of the thought and the benefits 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-2078","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2078","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=2078"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2078\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2080,"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2078\/revisions\/2080"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/global-leadership.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2078"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}