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Jan 4, 2010

Goal Setting, Defined and Deconstructed

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Many people are setting goals for the new year. I have been thinking about my goals: ones that I am contemplating now; those achieved in the last year; some abandoned; and a few unattained but possible. I realized that the type of goal, rather than its real or perceived difficulty, is a good predictor of fulfillment or frustration. Here are ways to define goals, deconstruct them, and plan for success.

Process vs. Results-oriented Goals

Process goals are like resolutions. I might resolve to do strength training two times each week, and run or go to a cycle class three times per week. Or, I might decide to eliminate chocolate and ice cream from my diet, all but one time per week. A job seeker might decide to begin networking a few hours each week and set up at least four informational interviews each month.

Results-oriented goals are usually dependent on processes or a series of actions but are considered achieved based solely on the outcome. Examples are a certain weight lifted, race finished, or pounds lost. A job seeker may be successful if he or she lands a position with a certain organization or a specific salary (or gets any job at all).

Unless standards are set very low, the process goal is more readily achieved than the results-oriented goal because processes are more controllable than outcomes. However, if you are knowledgable about what it takes to achieve a certain result, then you can easily design your activities to assure that you’ll reach your goal.

Independent, Cooperative, and Competitive Goals

Some goals can be attained alone while others may require (or benefit greatly from) cooperation among teammates, family members, or colleagues. Still other goals involve achieving a certain competitive position.

For example, one year, I set an independent goal of reading Pulitzer Prize winning books in the fiction category, inspired by the online catalog at my library. All I needed to do is set aside time to read the books, or so I thought. Sadly, not all of these books were available from the library; however, I redefined my goal to read all the titles that I could borrow, buy, or trade.

Cooperative goals might be debt elimination or money savings of a certain amount for a couple or family. Decisions on spending, buying a new house, setting aside money in an emergency fund, and earning more through freelance jobs, part-time work or a new job probably need to be made on a joint basis. Extra money needs to be designated for debt reduction or a savings account so that one person doesn’t spend what the other earned or saved through savvy shopping or sacrifice.

Competitive goals are trickier to achieve. Examples are producing the most sales for your company, winning a college scholarship, finishing first in a road race, or even landing a new job. Though I would never discourage anyone from setting aggressive goals, newbies may want to set intermediate goals: establishing a list of prospective customers, writing and submitting an essay for a scholarship, or running a race for the first time.

Multi-step or Project Goals

Some goals require multiple steps. A goal that I have is to make a brick sidewalk to replace various pieces of slate placed in a path from my driveway to the front entranceway. I have no experience in this area but have attended a brick-laying demonstration and watched a video on building a sidewalk. My goal has multiple phases:

acquire the knowledge and skill to design and construct a brick sidewalk
obtain the money needed to purchase brick and tools and/or rent tools
design and plan the layout of the sidewalk
set aside an entire weekend (or more) to create the sidewalk
convince my family that I can actually make the sidewalk without causing irreparable damage to my home, yard, and self.

Deconstructing this goal by breaking down specific actions is helpful in defining individual steps and achieving the finished result. And, even if I don’t accomplish the entire project this year, I could save the money and plan the project, and then complete the sidewalk next year.

Life-list Goals

Start by making a list of life goals. Some may involve setting aside time and money; others may be more complicated and require developing an expertise and getting some experience.

For example, Jeff Rose may want to take another backpacking trip, and just has to carve out vacation time and find travel money. My son, a Boy Scout who will likely be going on an extended backpacking trip in a couple of years, needs more preparation. I think it is good to start planning now by going on hikes, getting in shape, figuring out which gear works best in what circumstances, learning to set a fire without matches, and honing wilderness skills. Similarly, you may or may not be ready to tackle your life-list goal this year but can take steps now to get there in the future.

Summary: Tips for Achieving Goals

1) Define what you want to accomplish.

2) Deconstruct your goals by figuring out what is needed to achieve them: time, resources (time is also a resource but tools, materials, and gear could be listed here), specialized skills and knowledge. Understand that goals may have various elements that complicates deconstruction: for example, my sidewalk dream is a results-oriented goal but still involves processes, multiple steps, and cooperation.

3) Plan ways of achieving goals, which may involve setting aside time, taking a class, finding an expert, or just getting support from your family.

4) Redefine goals if necessary. You may need to figure out if you are in the position to achieve a competitive goal. If you are reasonably accomplished in a certain area and now just need finesse or a creative boost to get to a certain level, then you are ready to set a competitive goal. If you are just getting started in a new field, then it might be best to set basic competency goals.

5) Go for your goals.

Permalink | Comments | Julie Rains's blog | Channel: Life Hacks

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Jan 4, 2010

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Truly Offbeat Budget Travel Tips

By Sasha A. Rae

It’s the new year and you want to get your travel on, only your wallet isn’t working for you. You’re scrimping and saving, even though you’re unsure about where or even how you can travel during your vacation. It’s time to veer off the traditional travel trails and into a more localized experience – even if you journey to a destination far from home.

There are tons of ways to save money and experience a new culture –sometimes for free – by exploring the local terrain, be it an urban, bucolic, or rugged outdoors location. And the best way to find out where the real deals are is to ask the locals – they know where the good (and cheap) stuff is.

Here are some local digs that offer sweet information about where to stay and what to do while you’re there.

Hostels: Not just a place to crash. The front desk at any hostel offers a plethora of local information, from where to find the best pubs to where to check out local dance performances. For instance, a whirl through San Francisco found me hanging at the San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf hostel in Fort Mason right near Golden Gate Park. Not only did the front desk hand me a detailed map off all of the local public transportation routes, but they also told me where the nearest parks, cafes, and libraries were. In fact, they gave me enough information to occupy me for days and for a relatively small amount of money. Plus, hostel staff members are usually very friendly and informative. Just ask them about what you’re looking for and they’ll tell you. Don’t forget to check the bulletin boards for local events.

Yahoo Groups: A virtual hangout spot teeming with people who know about your destination. With a regional directory of groups, you can surf on through here and find out what’s happening in different spots around the world. Want to know about things to do in Botswana or how to find romance in Germany? There’s a group for it somewhere in there. Join up and start asking questions.

Local papers: Not the big city kind; the ultra-local neighborhood papers will serve you better here. The last time I hit a big American city and needed the low down on what to do, I grabbed a few papers from the stands on the streets. The hyper-local ones provide the best details on local restaurants, museums, and parks. As an added bonus, you get a feel for what the place is like and how much time you want to spend there.

Local libraries: More than a research facilities or places to pick up the latest fiction for free, these are information powerhouses on the local front. In fact, a few years ago, I rolled on out to Bali and kicked it in Ubud for a few weeks. While I was there, I was getting too frustrated with my inability to speak Indonesian. I headed on down to the local library where I not only found a cool Indonesian language instructor (for about $6 an hour, a top-rate bargain), but I also picked up info on the latest events, classes and treks in the area. While I was there, I met a few local expats who now called Bali home and they turned out to be the best information sources around.

Local bookstores: Yet more information powerhouses. These gems can give you access to books in your own language as well as the language of the country you’re in. You can also check out the local bulletin boards for information on events and activities in the immediate area. And the owners are used to answering lots of questions, so ask them what activities they suggest doing while you’re in the area.

Local sports shops: If you haven’t already booked an adventure trip or if find yourself with some free time and the urge to get out into nature, local sports stores can be a great place to start. Call around if you can. Or show up and see if you can talk to the people in the store. Want to go on a bike tour around the area? The people at the local bike shop not only have the gear you need, but they probably know where the best rides are and what you can see along the way. Remember, mostly sports enthusiasts work in sports shops. They know the things you need to know. And if they don’t know, they can tell you who does.

Your university alumni association: Your university usually has a directory of alumni, some of whom might be traveling or living in another country. Why not ping a former friend or classmate and find out what they’re up to? They might have ideas on what you can do, as well as contacts in your destination area.

Other travelers: Then there’s the tried and true, just hanging around experience that drums up some the best times you’ll have while you’re traveling. Hang out around sports shops, museums, cafes, the beach. Anywhere you like to be. You’ll soon find yourself chatting with other locals and travelers – and finding out the local tips and tricks that no guidebook can truly offer.

So start asking around. You never know what you’ll find out and what kinds of truly free or amazingly budget-friendly things you can find to do by taking a grassroots, local approach to travel. And you might make some cool new friends in the process.

Permalink | 2 comments | Sasha A. Rae's blog | Channel: Art and Leisure

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Jan 2, 2010

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12 Cool Things to Do with Used Dryer Sheets

By Jeff Yeager

Since nearly half of all marriages in the U.S. now end in divorce — and those that do last less than eight years on average — I suppose it’s a matrimonial miracle that after more than 25 years of wedded bliss, my wife and I have only one major dispute.

I’m referring, of course, to fabric softener sheets. She swears by them, and I swear about them, every time she buys them at the supermarket or I find one clinging to the inside of my boxer shorts. (Trust me, at my age you don’t need softening sheets in your shorts.)

Rather than argue with my truly wonderful wife about whether fabric softener sheets are worth the money, I decided to instead go for the Guinness Book of World Records for lengthy marriages and keep ours intact by finding some creative ways to reuse spent fabric softener sheets. Here’s what I found:

Use them more than once. Although my wife disagrees, I’ve found that the same softener sheet can be used up to three or four times in the dryer and still get the job done.

Anti-static dust wipes: The anti-cling chemicals in dryer sheets make them perfect for dusting television and computer screens and other electronic dust-magnets.

Lint brush in a pinch: Used fabric softener sheets can be used to remove pet hair and lint from clothing and upholstery.

Pot scrubbers: The softening chemicals in dryer sheets help loosen food particles stuck on pots and baking dishes; place a used sheet in the dish, cover with hot water, and let soak overnight. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. (Editor’s Note: this one may not be for the chemically squeamish.)

Soap grime-fighter: The same softening chemicals make used dryer sheets good wipes to use in removing soap scum from bath tubs, showers and tiles.

Sweet feet: Stuff dryer sheets in your shoes overnight to keep them smelling fresh. They’ll also freshen closets, dresser drawers and cabinets.

Dust-free blinds: Not only do spent dryer sheets make a handy wipe for metal and plastic blinds, but the chemicals in them help to repel dust.

Better smelling bookshelf: The bookshelves in my dungeon of a home office smelled like mold until I started sticking a used drier sheet between every third volume or so on the shelf.

Get your shine on: When used as a polishing rag, dryer sheets make mirrors and chrome appliances shine. They’re also great for cleaning windows and other glass.

Clothes storage: Placing used dryer sheets in with sweaters and other seasonal clothing before you store them will not only make them smell fresher, but the smell helps keep mice away.

Car care: Keep some in the glove compartment to dust the dashboard and wipe the windshield; they’ll make your ride smell a little nicer at the same time.

And finally, can spent fabric softener sheets actually keep a marriage fresh? Why not try a "Dance of the Seven Fabric Softener Sheets" for someone you love? Now that’s hot.

This post from the Green Cheapskate by Jeff Yeager is republished with the permission of The Daily Green. Check out more great content from The Daily Green:

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Jan 2, 2010

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Time to Get Down With Your Inner Zen

By Sasha A. Rae

The world is awash in a sea of chaos, a sea that can carry you far off your path if you let it. But you don’t have to. You have more control over yourself and your life than you may think. Certainly outside circumstances can be harsh and scary sometimes, economic and personal challenges can pop up all around you, and you can lose a small measure of our confidence as it seems life is swirling out of your control. That’s where the pursuit of peace comes in. Inner peace, the kind that comes from inside and shines out of you no matter what’s happening. And there are some really great, easy and not-too-expensive ways to relax and rejuvenate without breaking your wallet.

Tune into the Yoga Scene

Adopting a regular yoga practice can calm your monkey mind and cultivate a great sense of peace in you. It can also lower your blood pressure and increase your flexibility. A bonus point is that yoga comes in dozens of flavors, so you can pick the one that suits you best. If you’re looking for a gentler and quieter form, check out Hatha yoga, which fosters a deep sense of relaxation and release. Or you can check out Raja yoga, which takes you deeper into self-realization and opens up channels to your inner spirit. For the more active among you, Kundalini yoga is your ticket. With deep and fast movements, this one will rev you up and send you off in the right direction. Then there’s Hot Yoga at temperatures above 100° Fahrenheit to warm you up and limber you out.

While some traditional yoga classes can get pretty pricey, DVDs can offer the same great workout without the cost. Gather a group of friends together for a once-a-week yoga session. You can support each other and reduce your stress at the same time. Or check out your local YMCA. Memberships are inexpensive and usually include free access to yoga classes.

Boost Your Body with Qigong

Raise your energy with some daily qigong. This ancient Chinese practice works on increasing the amount of chi, or energy, in your system and directing it toward what you want. Most of the practice focuses on healing the body, but the energy boost you get from qigong pops up everywhere. You find yourself happier for no real reason, relaxed in the midst of a chaotic environment, even Zen-like in the face of a confrontation. That’s if you do it regularly and consistently.

Slow, smooth movements dominate the practice, so this is only for the most patient among us. The Eight Piece of Brocade is among the simplest series of movements to learn and do, while something like the Hand of the 18 Luo Han can require more practice to master. No matter which one you choose, though, doing them every day will boost your health. Your blood pressure will go down, your circulation will increase and your immune system will improve. Perfect for cold-ridden winter months.

As with yoga, a lot of gyms offer qigong classes or you can check out DVDs. A quick call to a local qigong school or a glance through their website can tell you more about the different kinds of qigong. Taking an introductory course to get your started and then doing the practice on your own also works well.

Master the Art of Meditation

When your mind is racing with a cacophony of houghts and your life is swirling with responsibilities and obligations, it can seem like a luxury to take a few minutes to … do nothing. Think nothing. To just be. But getting a quiet moment or two in a day can mean all the difference between living on the edge and biting off a loved one’s head or responding calmly to things that come up. Because something always comes up.

To get started, you can merely sit quietly in a place where you won’t be disturbed and watch what your mind does. You can also try one of the many kinds of meditation out there. For instance, insight meditation engages the mind by giving it a specific thought to chew on while you sit. Others, such as Siddha yoga, involve chanting from spiritual texts. The Guru Gita is a famous Hindi manuscript that followers have used for hundreds of years and there are dozens of great places across the U.S. where you can find a meditation group to chant with. One of my favorites is the Siddha Yoga Meditation Center of Seattle. Aim for 30 minutes of meditation a day for the best benefits, but start with 10 if your mind operates in overdrive most of the time. Plus, there’s no right or wrong way to meditate. The biggest challenge is to find a time and a spot to sit in silence and let your thoughts wash over you.

If you’re looking for group support or a good meditation instructor, check out the local Buddhist temples. You can also search for meditation groups on the Internet. Or check out your local Unitarian Universalist Church, which often hosts a free weekly meditation group. Be creative and try out several until you find one that works for you.

Let’s get started. There’s no time like the present.

Permalink | Comments | Sasha A. Rae's blog | Channel: Art and Leisure, Health and Beauty

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Jan 2, 2010

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Jan 2, 2010

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Best of Personal Finance Roundup: 8 Money Tips I L...

By Linsey Knerl

Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best of Personal Finance roundup. This time, we examine 8 money tips learned from the movie "Christmas Vacation," how to buy a blu-ray player, and 75 Twitter tips from today’s small business moms! Enjoy our picks, and have a stellar New Year!

It’s Sew Easy to Save

By Sarah Winfrey

Sewing Machine

Unless you’re particularly crafty, sewing might seem like it’s totally out of your league. And it IS intimidating, especially when you’ve never touched a sewing machine before and you take your first look at the instructions for getting the thing threaded. However, learning to sew some basic items can also save you a lot of money, so it might be worth spending the time to learn.

Luckily, there are some easy projects that don’t require very much know-how to complete. All you need to get started is a sewing machine, someone to teach you how to use it or a good instruction manual, and some cheap fabric.

Primary Considerations

If you’re not quite sure sewing is the thing for you, see if you can borrow a sewing machine before you purchase one. You might be surprised how many people have them sitting around, packed away somewhere and never used. Make sure you get a good manual with any borrowed machine, and that it has all the working parts (check particularly for bobbins, bobbin covers, and a foot pedal).

Make sure you don’t spend too much on fabric. Remnants are always good, as is fabric from Wal-Mart. Think creatively when it comes to getting cheap fabric. Old sheets can be reused, or you can purchase some when they’re on sale. In addition, you can use fabric from old clothes. Don’t even throw away your scraps. Small pieces of fabric can be used for pillows and quilts.

It’s usually easy to find patterns for free, particularly for the basic items listed here. Check the internet, or look up one of the sites listed at the end of this article for some places to start.

Basic Mending and Alterations

One of the easiest things to practice your sewing on is your own clothes. If something gets a hole in it, don’t automatically throw it away, use it as a rag, or throw it in the back of your closet. Instead, try to fix it. If you fail, it won’t be in any worse shape than it’s already in.

You may not even need a sewing machine for this type of stitching. If there’s not a good way to get the machine to the place where the hole or tear is, don’t hesitate to sew it by hand.

Basic alterations are also a great place to practice. Many professionals charge quite a bit to make your clothes fit the way you want them to, but you can do it yourself without a hassle. Depending on the type of material you’re working with, it’s easy to hem pants or skirts, change sleeve length, even add a zipper or some buttons. Look up your particular project and material online to find specific instructions if you’re not sure where to start.

Diapers and Baby Blankets

If you have a baby or want to give a great gift to someone who does have a little one, homemade cloth diapers can be made cheaply and easily. Note that these aren’t useful only for someone who is diapering with cloth, as the diapers are useful as burp cloths and many parents keep them around for baby spills because of their absorbency.

Not comfortable making the actual diaper? Buy some plain white cloth diapers on sale and add some ribbon. You can sew it on around the edges, make stripes across the length or width of one side of the diaper, or do something else entirely.

Making a baby blanket can be as easy as buying a large piece of flannel and turning over each of the edges with your sewing machine. Add some ribbon as a binding and it’s an even nicer gift. One great thing about these is that you can make them large enough to use as swaddling blankets, because many of the blankets sold in stores are way too small.

Curtains and Pillow Cases

Both of these are incredibly simple to sew. As long as you have a curtain rod, all you need to do to make basic curtains is finish the edges of your material, then sew a tube of fabric large enough for the rod to go through in whichever end you want to be the top of your curtain. You can use whatever material you want, and make the curtains as complicated as you desire.

Valences are another easy-to-sew home accessory. Simply take a Queen or King sized sheet in a material you like, cut it in half long ways, and sew the short ends together. Make sure all your loose edges are turned under, and you’ve got a valance to drape over your curtain rod.

Pillow cases require a little more time and skill, but are still relatively easy. Measure your pillow form, then go online to find a free pattern that’s the right size. Cut your material according to the instructions, and the sewing is a breeze.

Green Shopping Bags/Tote Bags

These make great gifts, and they’re good for your own use, too. Find some sturdy-but-cheap material (upholstery fabric that’s on sale can be great for these) and follow any one of a number of free instructions available online. Note that these can be as complicated or as simple as you want them to be, so don’t take on more than you’re confident sewing.

Green grocery bags make particularly nice gifts, as they’re free to the recipient, sturdier than most of the ones you can buy in the store, and make a contribution to the earth. Again find a free pattern and get started.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can take your sewing as far as you to go. Interested in making clothes? It’s totally possible. Wanting to delve deeper into home decor? Go for it. When you’re established and started, there’s nothing stopping you.

How have you used sewing to save some money? Do you have any patterns that you simply adore? Let us know in the comments.

Pattern Resources

Free Patterns from About.com

Tote Bag/Grocery Bag Patterns

BurdaStyle

Permalink | 2 comments | Sarah Winfrey's blog | Channel: DIY

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