The Rewards of Thanking the Lord

“Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name.  I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and will glorify Your name forever.  For Your lovingkindness toward me is great, and you have delivered my soul…”  ~ Psalm 86:12

Once a week, I share one of my bible studies with you because it will help you an your leadership.

Two of the most important words we can ever use is - Thank You!

When we use these words, it is usually because we want to acknowledge how immensely grateful we are.

Each day I live, I have to say these two words to show my appreciation to the Lord.  Before I do anything in the morning, I have to say thank you Lord.  I don’t start thinking about anything before I say the words, thank you Lord.

No one is perfect.  I am well aware that God has carried me throughout my life.  Matter fact, I wouldn’t be where I am without Him.

No matter how great we are as leaders, we need God.  If there was ever a time when we needed the Lord, it is now. When we show a grateful heart, the Lord will bless us with 3 of His rewards.

1. The Lord is the greatest mentor.  There is nothing like being taught by the ultimate expert.  God is the ultimate mentor.  He has been around since the creation of the world and knows all things.  Who wouldn’t want the Lord for a mentor?  The Lord will also reveal the right mentors you need to progress your life and business.

2. The Lord doesn’t lie.  I rather have someone tell me the truth, instead of having me guessing with lies.  It’s hard to advance your life with lies.  Choose the Lord because He always speaks truth.  In John 8:32 it says, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

3. The Lord always delivers.  God cares!  He never wants to see us fail.  He wants your life, business, and career to grow.  When we acknowledge God, He will always find a way to lift us up.  And if He cannot deliver us one way, He will do it another way.  “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear…He will also provide a way of escape that you may be able to endure.” ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13

Don’t miss out on any of your blessings from God because of lack of appreciation.  I believe we are all thankful to the Lord, but find a way to speak these three simple words frequent and often - Thank You LORD!

 

Question: What are you thankful for?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Simply Structure Your Life

Life can be full of instability because of its unpredictable nature.  Things around us are always changing, but more importantly we are always changing.

Are you changing for the best?

I never expected to rupture my Achilles at the end of 2013, but it happened.  Aside from the physical change I experienced from the repair I underwent, I also experienced transformation change with my perspective.  I had a lot of time to think and reflect on the person and leader I want to be.

Much of my solace came from having a simple structure, which gave me stability during a highly unstable time in my life.

Without structure, unfortunate situations have the possibility to consume our lives.  You will discover ways to make it through any misfortunes if you choose the simple structuring I will share with you today.

The process of building a house is a perfect example of why we need simple structuring in our lives.

A house cannot stand without a good foundation.  Keys to building a great building of any kind begin with a firm base and a fitting framework.

1. Firm Base.  A firm base is key to future strength.  My base begins with my belief in God.  However, it doesn’t stop with God.  When we are able to believe it increases our confidence with all areas of our lives.  We don’t have to settle for not feeling good enough.  With a firm base, we BELIEVE.  We believe we can and will achieve the impossible.  Extraordinary things happen when we believe, especially if our belief is in God.

2. Fitting Framework.  We need a good base, but having a great framework is just as important to our foundation.  The framework deals with the connections and relationships we develop.  Many people say they believe, but then they abuse and take for granted the various relationships in their life.  It is hard to be successful without the help of others.  The greatest dreams known to man have become realities because of great teams.  So it’s time to start focusing on improving the relationships in your life.

Just remember, structure holds our lives together.

“Whether we choose to simply structure our lives or not, we have already made a choice.”

 

Choose structure and elevate the level of your life’s success.

 

Question: How is your foundation?  Do you need to take some time to build a stronger and more effective foundation to be more success in your life?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Lead with Class

Believe it or not, you are a leader.  The question is - How are you leading?

We all would like to think we are effective leaders, but what makes us effective?  Is there a right or wrong way to lead?

There are so many different leadership styles these days.  And I believe certain situations require a specific type of leadership.  There are no “cook book” resolutions when it comes to effectively leading.

The fascinating thing about leadership is there really isn’t a right or wrong way to lead.  There are good and bad decisions, but who determines whether your decision is good or bad?

I choose to consult with other leaders, but my greatest advisor is God.

With that said, I am always looking for ways to grow my leadership skills.  I want to stay relevant, effective, and compassionate as a leader.

There are certain leadership skills effective leaders should possess no matter their style of leadership.  In my constant quest for growth as a leader, I discovered this wonderful infographic below I think you will enjoy.

CMOE

Discover ways to work these leadership qualities into your leadership because quality leadership is valuable leadership.

 

Question: What leadership qualities do you possess and what other qualities could you possess to further your success?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Pursuing Joy in Everything

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” ~ James 1:2-5

The presence of blessings doesn’t mean an absence of problems.

When I first read this scripture as a child, I thought I needed to be happy all the time.  As I matured, I discovered joy was less about happiness and more about contentment.

Personally, I had a hard time believing I should be happy when my grandmother died.  She was having intolerable pain from the progressive nature of her bone cancer, so she was ready for the suffering to end.  However, being happy was the last thing on my mind.

What difficult times have you experienced?

Your situation may be different, but I think we all have found it hard to be happy during tragic situations such as tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, mudslides, tsunamis, murders, kidnappings, child abuse, racism, etc.

During these times we need joy.

Instead of pursuing happiness, you will benefit tremendously from pursuing joy.

Why joy?

In the scripture above, joy is defined as being calm.  It may be difficult to be calm in some situations, but there are three reasons why being calm will help your life.

1. Helps with Self-Control,

 

2. Helps with Decision-Making, and

 

 3. Helps with Stress.

 

Don’t let the circumstances of this life break you down, rather pursue joy in everything you do.  Be calm and discover ways of making your life more successful.

 

Question: How would your life look with more joy?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Work with Purpose

There is nothing worse than working without a purpose.  Job loyalty and purposeful working has lost importance in today’s workplace.

Work has become just another way to make money for many people.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with working to pay your bills, put food on the table, or to have a little spending money.  But there has to be more of a reason for why we work.  Right?

I have seen many people in the work industry only concerned with clocking in and out.  They work their 8 hours a day, but that’s all it is - work.  For these people, work has no meaning or purpose.

I’m not saying these people are bad people or ineffective workers, but it may not help with building a strong work ethic.

Have you ever found yourself working without purpose?

Working without purpose interferes with our success.  Practically speaking, most of us spend most of our waking time at work.  That means if we are going to be successful we need to work with purpose.

It may be tough to approach everyday with this attitude of working with a purpose, but these ten tactics should help you work with a purpose and power your success.

1. Focus and do one thing at a time.  How we handle our current tasks and responsibilities determines our future success.  We must discover purpose in every task we decide to perform at work.

2. Know the challenge.  Before we can work with purpose, we have to know our difficulties.  What challenges are holding us back from working with purpose?  Is it lack of sleep?  Is it an attitude problem?  Once you find any possible challenges to you working with purpose, don’t let anything stop you from purposefully working in order to achieve your success.

3. Listen carefully.  Success comes in different ways and we can sometimes miss our opportunities to succeed if we are not listening actively.

4. Ask the right questions.  None of us knows it all.  When we don’t know something, the best thing to do is to ask the right questions.  Asking the wrong question can cause you to run in circles, so ask the right questions to discover different ways of working with purpose.

5. Be Sensible.  The more realistic you can be the better.  Don’t set high expectation with your working goals.  Set good balance goals and set out to achieve them.

6. Accept Change.  Nothing in life stays the same.  Whether we are moving forward or backward, accept the change by adapting to challenges at hand.  It will add more purpose to your work.

7. Admit Mistakes.  One of the keys to working or living with purpose is taking onus.  Taking onus stops us from blaming others and allows us to learn from our mistakes.  When you have experienced success, you will be able to look back and see a track history of personal accountability.

8. Make it simple.  Most of us are appreciative of simplicity.  It hard to work or live with purpose if we are making things more complicated than they should be.

9. Be Calm.  You are headed for a more purposeful and successful life if you can be calm in the various situations you will encounter.  When we are patient and calm, it gives us a better opportunity to effectively work and be productive.

10. Smile more.  It may be hard to believe, but smiling more will help give your work and life more purpose.  Smiling sets the right tone.  It will allow you to maintain positive energy and the right attitude.

I believe we all want to work and live with purpose.  In our constant search for purpose, daily live lives of significance.

People who are able to perform meaningful actions daily will experience an abundance of success.

 

Question: Are you daily working and living with purpose?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Make the Most of Your Day

Life stops for no one.  Whether we enjoy life or not, it will still go on without us.

Life has a way being a great teacher.  The lesson usually comes when you least expect it and usually in an unconventional way.

One of the many ways life has decided to share lessons with me is through parenting.  I have three spirit-filled boys who have greatly blessed me ever since their arrival to the Earth.

Frequently, my wife and I have to remind our boys of this phrase - “Don’t rush life.”  Like us all, they get excited about future fun events.  These words are simple enough, but isn’t as easy as it sounds.

When the weekend has come to an end and it’s Monday all over again, it can be hard to remember the phrase - “Don’t rush life.”

I have been guilty of this many times.  It’s no secret that we as humans look forward to weekends, holidays, vacations, new job opportunities, or any other special dates.

But why only enjoy these days?

Make the most of every day.

How to Make the Most of Your Day

 

1. Live in the Moment.  Carpe Diem.  Carpe Diem is a Latin aphorism, commonly translated “seize the day.”  Don’t worry about the past or look to the future, enjoy the blessing of today.

2. Learn from the Tough Days.  Everyday you have the privilege to live is a good day.  However, some days will be better than others.  Discover what made the tough days difficult.  Once we figure out what made our tough days a challenge, then we will have an opportunity to change our tough day into better days.

3. Love Your Calling.  Each of us has been gifted with a specific calling.  Do you know your calling?  Once we understand our calling, it allows us to capitalize on the various opportunities to make our day the very best it can be.

Don’t rush life and make the most of every day.

 

Question: How do you make the most of your days?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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The Power of Prayer

It’s always a good time to pray!

I don’t know how you feel about this subject matter, but I am always in need of prayer.

There have been many situations that the power of prayer has helped me.  I have been “at a loss,” but somehow someway I made it through.

Our successes are dependent on things such as preparation, hard work, determination, experience, and character.  However, the key to extraordinary success is consulting with God through prayer.

Whether you believe in prayer or not, I think you will be surprised what the research says about prayer.  In the religion section of the Huff Post, an article titled Why People Who Pray Are Healthier Than Those Who Don’t explained “that people who pray and meditate trend to be statistically more healthy and live longer than those who do not.”

How would you feel about improve health?  What do you think about extending your life?

Aside from the benefits from the above-mentioned article, there are many other reasons to pray.

4 Reasons to Pray

 

1. I need to give thanks.  I am nothing without the Lord.  All I have and will receive is a direct result of God’s favoring my life.  Once we acknowledge this fact, we remove ourselves from the equation and give God more room to operate in our lives to do what He does best.  God is in the blessing business.  Give thanks to God for running such a great business.

2. I need help.  I pray because I need help.  Some people will peg this point as being selfish.  Just remember, you can’t help or pray for anyone else without asking for God’s help or praying for you.  There’s a reason why adults are to don their oxygen masks first in the result of plane malfunction.  We need help in order to help others.

3. I need to help others.  In the grand scheme of things, the entire prayer process isn’t about me.  It’s bigger than me.  It’s about God and praying for others.  This is why I like the phrase by Aristotle, “The whole is more than the sum of its parts.”

4. I need to release my negativity.  I am an optimist, but I am also a realist.  The reality of all of our lives is unfortunately we all will experience our fair share of negativity.  Instead of unloading my negativity on anyone else, I rather vent release my negativity to someone who can fix all things.

Call to Pray

 

So if you are reading this blog, please take a few minutes to pray after reading.

What are we praying for?

I received several emails, text messages, direct messages on Twitter, and personal request in daily one-on-one conversations for prayer.

Please join us in prayer.  It’s simple, just pray for these things on this list to bless someone else.  There is no need to mention names because God knows the heart.

Please pray for the following:

- God’s guidance,

- Loss of a love one,

- Purchasing car insurance,

- Personal Health,

- Health of others,

- Car needs,

- Challenges with finishing college education,

- Marriages,

- Professional promotions, and

- Entrepreneur business adventures.

I believe James 5:16, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.  The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

Again, I’m pleading with you to join me in prayer to help someone with these serious issues previously mentioned.

I would love to add your desires to the prayer list, so we can cover them with the power of prayer.  Please email, tweet, Facebook, or leave a comment below.

 

Question: What desires of your heart are in need of the power of prayer?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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How to Avoid Living on Fumes

As long as we have life in our bodies, we will face challenges daily.  Quite frankly, that’s what makes us human.

Our challenges include responsibilities such as helping others, educating ourselves, making sound decisions, respecting self/others, standing up for what’s right, and loving all.  These are grave responsibilities that require consistent attention.

It’s easy to get caught up focusing on these responsibilities and neglect yourself.  When we neglect ourselves too many times, we will find ourselves living on fumes.  We will continue to tend to our daily responsibilities, but with little to no energy.

Have you ever felt like you were living on fumes?

Let me give you a great example of a common responsibility that can cause us to live on fumes.

I am so fascinated with how many emails I receive a day.  Some are legit, but most are junk mail.  I was once concerned with keeping my email perfectly clean and it bothered me to have any junk emails in my inbox.

A mentor of mine once told me, “Your inbox will never be empty.”  I believe the same applies with our lives.

Our lives will always have challenges or some form of chaos.  So instead of figuring out ways of emptying your inbox or managing your life perfectly, just come to a realization about a few truths in your life.

I have come to the realization of three truths that helps me avoid living life on fumes.  It will also help you in your life’s journey.

3 Truths to Remember to Avoid Living on Fumes

 

1. I will never have a perfect life.  We weren’t created to be perfect, but we were created to follow He who is perfect.  No family, church, or business is perfect.  I will strive for perfection, but I know life isn’t over when I discover my imperfections.  I don’t focus on living a perfect life, but instead my focus is to live a progressive life.  A progressive life is one that constantly moves forward.

2. I will make mistakes.  When God created us.  He created us with free will, which means everyday we have a choice.  When I have a choice, this means I will make a mistake.  No one gets it right all the time, but it is our mistakes that give us our greatest lessons.

3. I will have to say “NO.”  No one can do it all.  Sometimes we feel that we are superheroes.  Whether you are a mother, business owner, or any kind of leader; you will never be able to say yes to everything.  It’s important to have boundaries, so you can avoid living life on fumes.

Discover ways of holding to these three truths and you will uncover a great deal of success with your life.

 

Question: Are you living on fumes?  How are you planning on re-energizing your life?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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A Prison Without Walls

No one would willingly volunteer to go to prison, so why would anyone live like a prisoner when they have the privilege of living free?

There are some situations that may seem impossible to figure out, but it just takes a little creativity and imagination.

As children, we believe anything is possible.  As we age and become adults, we then start creating boundaries and limits.  In other words, we begin to create invisible walls of impossibilities that lock up our dreams and aspirations.

What’s holding your dreams back?

Step Outside the Box

 

Don’t let anything put you in a box.  Whenever you feel you are being limited or held back from accomplishing your goals, just assess your situation and step outside the box.

The box can be anything from a person to a thing that keeps us from growing.  Boxes are meant to contain things.  In reality, nothing is actually holding us back but ourselves.

The God I serve told me in Psalm 139:14, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”  So break free of whatever is holding you back and live in the freedom in which you were created.

3 Ways to Step Outside of the Box

 

1. Understand Your Gift.  Without knowing your gift, it makes it hard to be the best person you can be.  You will still be able to live and possibly prosper, but you may never reach your maximal potential unless you understand your gift.

2. Act on Your Gift.  Once you have discovered your gift, then you must put some action behind your gift.  Don’t be afraid to live out the gift you have been blessed with and move forward with that gift by stepping outside of the box.

3. Grow Your Gift.  Once you have understood your gift and acted on your gift, then you should grow gift.  It’s hard to grow your gift inside the box, so you will need to be outside the box to grow.

Don’t let any of your dreams, goals, aspirations, or future accomplishments suffer from any limitations.  Find a way to step outside of the box and capitalize on your gift.

 

Question: What are your dreams or future aspirations?  What’s holding your dreams or aspirations back?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Why Growth is Inevitable

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.” ~ Galatians 6:7

 

Everyday we plant seeds.  Seeds of encouragement, seeds of inspiration, seeds of motivation, seeds of anger, seeds of bitterness, seeds of happiness, seeds of contentment, etc.

Everything we decide to do or say in a day is a way of planting a seed.  It’s always good to remember someone is always watching us.

My wife and I may be shopping or dining at a restaurant, but I always take time to watch the behaviors of people.  We have always heard, “Kids say and do the darnedest things.”  I would say, “Kids say and do what they see from adults.”  If you just look around when you are out, you will see some interesting human exchanges.

First let me say, I believe great customer service needs to be a priority no matter the situation.  However, I’ve witnessed mistreatment of many waiters.  Sometimes customers feel they can do any thing they want to do and ninety percent of the times these customers still expect excellent customer service.

Whatever we expect out of others, we must expect the same thing out of ourselves.

Your Seeds Will Grow

 

What seeds are you planting?

If you plant apple seeds, you would expect an apple tree to grow.  If you plant orange seeds, you would expect an orange tree.

This same principle applies with the things we say and do.  Whatever we plant in our lives will become a realization.

If you feel like things aren’t going your way in life, stop and reflect for a minute.  Ask yourself the question - What seeds am I planting in my life?

If we are asking for our children to do things the right way, we must do things the right way.  If we are asking a group we are leading at work to perform things a certain way, as leaders we better make sure we leading by example.

When we are happy, we are planting seeds of happiness and will reap a harvest of happiness in all areas of our lives.  The complete opposite of that statement is true as well.  When we are sad, we end up planting the seed of sadness in all areas of our life.

Whatever seed you decide to plant, just know that seed will eventually have to produce or bring forth some type of result or outcome.  It’s inevitable!

Whether your seed is good or bad, it has to grow.  So start planting good seeds and grow your life in a positive way.

 

Question: What kind of seeds are you planting?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Remembering the Fallen

Freedom is a precious commodity.  Many people have sacrificed their lives for the freedom we experience in the United States of America.

I am reminded of this freedom everyday I am able to vote, worship with freedom of choice, and express freedom of speech.  I am grateful for all those who have served in our country’s armed forces.

Are you grateful for your freedom?

Whether you visit a memorial or not, please remember the fallen men and women of who died in military service to give us the freedom and safety we have in America.

Along with remembering our fallen heroes, keep the families they left behind in your prayers.

 

Question: How grateful are you for our fallen heroes?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Accepting Your Season of Fulfillment

Many people are looking for “more” out of life.  People are working longer, harder, and smarter to get a sense of fulfillment in their life.

What is fulfillment?

 

Fulfillment is defined as a satisfaction or happiness as a result of fully developing one’s ability and character.

Fulfillment doesn’t mean you are finished growing and developing as a person.  Fulfillment is being content where you are, but patiently waiting and working towards your next advancement in life.

We all have seen people trudge through jobs, marriages, and life with a discontented spirit.

Are you enjoying your season of fulfillment?

It’s Your Season!

 

Why is it your season?

This is your season because no matter what you may be experiencing, there is a positive in every negative.

Find contentment where you are, but more importantly discover how to grow from every situation you encounter.

Accept your season of fulfillment.

 

Question: How are you enjoying your season of fulfillment?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Give Thanks

Whether we use words correctly or not, they carry power. There are two words we should be especially familiar with in our English language.

“Thank You.”

I have witnessed many people using these words frequently, but I also have witnessed people having a hard time saying these two simple words.

Over the years, I have asked people their thoughts about the word.  I have received a variety of answers regarding these two simple, but powerful words.

Some people believe that these words can be overused.  Others believe it should be mentioned as much as possible.  And there are a few who fall in between these two answers.

When you think about how many times throughout the day you say the words, “Thank You,” you will be surprised to know that we don’t say it enough.

Seriously, right now stop for one or two minutes and reflect.  How many times do you actually say the words “Thank You.”

Just about every time you interact with people there will be an opportunity to say, “Thank You.”

Why Say Thank You?

We all should say “Thank You” to show appreciation.

“A grateful heart is a healthy and happy heart, which will open countless doors of opportunity.”

My boys love singing and I caught them singing a song the other day.  The name of the song is “Give thanks.”  It comes from Psalm 107:1,

“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever.”

God is the father of all blessings.  I believe that is reason enough to say “Thank You” a thousand times a day.

God is the reason we are able to open our eyes in the morning.  He gives us strength throughout the day.  He is the reason why we re not where we use to be and why our future is brighter than our past and present.

For that reason, God I THANK YOU!

There are many reasons to give thanks.  I am also grateful to my wife and children for allowing me to be the King of my castle.  I thankful to my church family for the encouragement and support they provide in all aspect of my life.

Last but certainly not least, THANK YOU for reading.  Those who read my blogs week after week, THANK YOU!  If you have sent an encouraging word through email, Twitter, Facebook, or posted a comment; THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

I hope after this blog, you won’t miss an opportunity to say “Thank You” as well.

Question: What are you thankful for?  Leave your comments below.

Bryant

Principles of a Strong Work Ethic

 

There is a short list of things that we actually need in life.

The short list consists of God, food, water, and sleep.  I would add to that short list, "A Strong Work Ethic."

As a child, I can remember having several chores such as washing dishes, vacuuming, mowing grass, washing dishes, etc.  I learned quickly the importance of work ethic.  My father and mother stressed doing my very best with any and every task.  I have carried this same work ethic with me into my adult tasks and responsibilities.

I was taught the following:

- Finish what you start,

- Do more than what’s expected of you,

- Go the extra mile, 

- Do your best, and

- Find the will to get it done.

How is your work ethic?

These days, everyone claims to have a strong work ethic.  After today’s blog, I want you to be able to clearly understand the meaning of ‘A Strong Work Ethic’ and also discover why you need it.

What is Work Ethic?

 

Work ethic is defined by two qualities = hard work and diligence.

Hard Work.  If we were to survey those who are successful, they have this quality.  People with ’Great Work Ethic’ will do whatever it takes to get the job done.  They will sacrifice all their time and effort to bring success to the task at hand.

What are your current responsibilities?  What are your dreams and aspirations?  Have you put enough hard work into these things?

Don’t compromise the success of your goals and objectives because you are not willing to work hard.

Diligence.  Diligence and hard work are frequently used interchangeably, but the words are both quite different.

Diligence can be hard work, but diligence is defined by our ability to persist.  We discussed this in Don’t Lose Heart (Click on link).

I can give my all once and work hard, but success takes consistent hard work more than once.  Hard work daily produces success.

Producing hard work daily requires perseverance and commitment.  This is defined as diligence.

Why You Need A Strong Work Ethic

 

1. To Build Character and Experience.  The more you practice being at your best with your work ethic, you will notice more effectiveness in your work ethic.  Eventually, great work ethic will naturally be part of who you are.  And no matter where you go in life, your great work ethic will follow you.  It will build your character.

2. To Increase Your Value.  When you work hard and are diligent about your hard work, you will discover an increase in your professional value.  Any organization is looking for people who have an exceptional work ethic, which means there will be more of a demand for your skills.

3. To Improve Your Financial Situation.  As you improve your value, your compensation will reflect your increased value in the marketplace.  The more income you receive will provide future opportunities for financial independence and wealth for you and your family.

What’s keeping you from achieving your desired level of success?

Work ethic determines your level of success.  Focus on bettering your work ethic.  You will thank yourself if you will take your work ethic to the next level.

 

Question: How would you benefit from a strong work ethic?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Take Time to Disconnect

If you have a job, you are grateful because of the high unemployment rates in the past few years.  You may not be completely satisfied with your job, but you know having a job means you are able to pay the bills.

Most working individuals have either paid time off or vacation time.  Every year, employers offer their employees on average 9-14 days of PTO or vacation time per salary.com.

I’ve always been one to promote work.  I believe the words from 2 Thessalonians 3:10, “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”  I believe there are only a few reasons why a person shouldn’t  work.  However, what is work if you cannot have a a little fun?

In addition, we are always talking on our cell phones, checking our emails, texting, or on our social media accounts.  Can you imagine going one day without any of these?

Multitasking, constant distractions, and responsibility overload has become a normal way of life.

It may be time to disconnect.

When I’m easily distracted or get a overall feeling of being swamped, it’s time for me to disconnect.

Do you know when it’s time for you to disconnect?

Whether you believe it or not, everyone needs to disconnect.

Here are 6 ways to disconnect:

1. Read a book.  When we read (depending on the book), it can create a calming influence for you.

2. Take a walk, run, or ride.  There is nothing like enjoying the beautiful creativity of God while getting a mixture of exercise and fresh air.

3. Turn off your phone, computer, or TV.  Get away from these devices and get some fresh air.

4. Establish a stress-free zone.  Create a place that will be free of any distractions.

5. Take a break.  It may be taking a few minutes away from work or you may need a few days, but take some time to rejuvenate and refresh your mind.

6. Set boundaries.  Set a time limit for when you will check or expose yourself to the technology you own.

When you are able to disconnect, you will discover your self living a more productive and prosperous life.

 

Question: How do you take time to disconnect?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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The INTUITION of a Leader

I will never downplay making a decision based off of sound rationale and proven facts.  However, there are some times in life when you need good intuition.

We all have been in situations when we have had to depend on our intuition.  Times when you felt like you left the oven on or the house/car door unlock.  Maybe it was feeling like you left something undone at home or work.  We all have experienced these types of intuitions.

As leaders, we have the same intuitions.  I have had to use these intuitions as a husband, father, servant of God, business owner, etc.

My greatest leadership role is being a husband and father.  There are times when these roles require me to make quick decisions, specially being a father.

There are many lessons I have to teach my boys, but there isn’t an instruction manual with being a father.  So there are times when I have to use my intuition.

Have you had to use intuition as a leader?

As a leader, there are times when you will have to make tough decisions.  You may not have all the information you need or enough time to make a rationale decision, but you will need good intuition?

What is Intuition?

 

Intuition is a perception of facts or truth.

But where does this perception come in to play?  Perception has to do with paying attention, having an awareness, insight, or discernment.

Many times when I hear people use the word intuition with guessing or assuming.  This notion is far from the truth.

Although you may not have all the information needed to make a good objective decision, intuition is about using past experiences and insight from various situations to make the best decision possible.

There is no reason for you not to have great intuition as a leader.  If you are unsure about your intuition, today will reassure you or help you sharpen your intuition as a leader.  I would like to share 8 ways of sharpening your intuition as a leader.

8 Ways of Sharpening Your Intuition

 

1. Trust God.  God is the creator of all things.  He gives us the ultimate experience.

2. Make Time For Solitude.  It’s hard to make any decision when you are not at peace.  Which is why it is so important to find alone time to quiet your mind.

3. Create.  Creativity is a big part of intuition.  Creative people are the intuitive people in the world.  Being creative will help you to understand that there are many ways getting any job done. 

4. Listen To Your Inner Voice.  We all have said the phrase, “I should listen to my first thought.”  Or you may have said, “I should have listened to my gut instinct.”  Usually your inside voice is talking for a reason.  The reason is that it senses some type of familiarity with the decision you are attempting to make.  So, listen to it next time.

5. Observe Everything.  Take time and learn from everything that happens to you.  If you are observant it will help shape your intuitive energy by enhancing your experience.

6. Connect Deeply With Others.  One of the most important things a leader can do to sharpen his intuition is learn how to connect deeply with people.  A big component of leadership is learning to lead people with the right attitude, right actions, and right decision making.  

7. Enjoy Your Down Time.  Doing things you love will definitely improve your ability to make decisions.  This is quite different from making time for solitude.  Your down time can be anything fun and can include your family or friends.

8. Let Go Of Any Negativity.  Hanging on to your negativity leaves little room for your positive energy to flow.

Start practicing these 8 tips of sharpening your intuition.  Practicing these tips will help you make better intuitive decisions that will lead to successful outcomes.

 

Question: When did you have to utilize your intuition as a leader?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Words from My Mother

No matter who you are, you have been affected by a mother’s touch.  Every year we celebrate mothers on Mother’s Day, but I think we would all agree that mothers should be celebrated everyday

My mother has had a significant influence in my life.  Many things I have been blessed with come from the beauty and grace of my God sent mother.  She defines the inner and outer splendor described in Proverbs 31.

Proverbs 31:10 asked the question, “Who can find a virtuous woman?”

I didn’t find my mother, but God gave me virtuous woman when she birthed me into this world.  Aside from Christ my Savior, God definitely gave me one of the greatest gifts in the world in my mother.

She was instrumental in teaching me what to look for in the beautiful and virtuous woman I found 15 years ago.  My mother would always tell me, “If you find a woman who loves God, you will find a woman who will love you.”    I have now been married to my soul mate for a little over 12 years ago.

Have you been touched by the nurturing love of a mother?

I hope you have a great relationship with your mother.  If not, after today’s blog I hope you call your mom and tell her how much you love her.  Whether you have a great relationship with your mother or not, work on enriching the love between you and your mother.

Proverbs 31 isn’t the only scripture that describes qualities of a reputable woman.  Another scripture that will help understand your mother’s love and deepen the love for your mother is 1 Corinthians 13.  1 Corinthians 13: 1-12 says,

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.  If have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.  If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.  Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Loves does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trust, always hopes, always preserves.  LOVE NEVER FAILS…And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love.  But the greatest of these is love.”

 

This is why my mother emphasized discovering the love of God before trying to love anyone else.  Strengthen your love for yourself, your mother, and others by discovering the GREAT love that God our Father in heaven has for you.

Make everyday Mother’s Day because our mothers are treasures.

 

Question: What encouraging words or valuable lessons did your mother share with you to enhance your life?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Don't Lose Heart

No matter where we are in life, we all are in search of a breakthrough of some kind.  Whether you are looking for healing, success, prosperity, or anything else; you will need a breakthrough.

There has been many times in my life when I have needed a personal, professional, or spiritual breakthrough.  And there will be other times when I will need of a breakthrough.

Are you in need of a breakthrough?

Please know that there is nothing wrong with needing a breakthrough in your life.  Don’t be afraid to admit it.  When you are doing something new or when you are involved with anything bigger than yourself, you will need a breakthrough.

Everyone is in need of a breakthrough.

While waiting on you breakthrough, I have one thing to say to you.

“Don’t Lose Heart!”

 

No matter how many No’s you receive.  In spite of what bad news you may receive from the doctor.  Regardless of the doubters.  Even if people turn their backs on you.

“Don’t Lose Heart!”

 

Many times we quit right before we are getting ready to receive our breakthrough.

Today’s blog is just for you.  I want to encourage you to keep working on your dreams and aspirations.  Keep fighting your sickness if you are ill. Don’t give up!  Don’t quit!!!

Know your breakthrough is just around the corner.  You are closer than you think.  Please believe me when I say that your breakthrough is coming.  Whatever you do…

“Don’t Lose Heart!”

 

Question: What do you need a breakthrough with in your life?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Do You Have A Mountain Moving Faith?

Belief is big determining factor when it comes to possessing the things we want in life.

“If you can dream and believe it, you will be able to achieve it.”

 

I know that statement is easier said than done.  However, we must find a way to believe.

If you have followed my blog, you know that I ruptured my Achilles at the end of 2013.  It was a challenging time for me.

As a physical therapist, I have treated many patients who have suffered from Achilles ruptures requiring an Achilles repair, but I had a hard time initially BELIEVING that things would improve.  It was hard seeing the end result.

So I had to change my mentality.  During my recovery, I had to refer to some uplifting words.  These words helped me BELIEVE.

Have you ever struggled with believing?

If we are honest, I think we have all doubted ourselves at some point in our lives, but to doubt isn’t a bad thing.  It becomes a problem if we decide to make it part of who we are.  We have to recognize when we doubt, and then proceed to Removing Our Doubts (click on link).

If you don’t have a mountain moving faith, I’m hoping you will after reading today’s blog.

Move Your Mountains

 

We all have mountains in our lives, but there is only one way to move mountains.

And He said to them, “Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.” ~ Matthew 17:20

 

I don’t believe this scripture is literally speaking of moving a mountain, but the mountains are symbolic of our life challenges.  Our problems may seem big, but all we need is just little faith to fix something that SEEMS to be so big.

Along with this scripture, I also would rehearse Romans 8:28.   Romans 8:28 says,

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

 

During the recovery of my Achilles, I continued to reference these two passages.  Even now since my recovery, these scriptures have become a big part of my life.  If you want to move your mountains, make these scriptures part of your life.

 

Question: What mountains need moving in your life?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Defining Your Motivation and Diagnosing Your Challenges

There are some things that will never change in life.  Just as the sun rises on the East and sets of the West, there are certain aspects of our lives that will never change.  We are all driven by something, but also there is something that challenges us.

I’m motivated by opportunities of moving forward in life, but the challenge with moving forward is it requires stepping outside of my comfort zone.

What motivates you?  What are your challenges?

In today’s blog, we will discuss what motivates you and the challenges you will face.  After reading this blog, you should be able to differentiate between the two and discover ways of moving your life forward.

Defining Your Motivation

 

How would you define motivation?

Motivation is a strong, powerful reason to act, behave, or accomplish anything.

What moves you?  What are your desires?  What do you want really, really, really bad?

Defining your motivation is the key to getting what you want out of life.  Once you determine what motivates you, you will spend less time with things that don’t motivate you and more time with those things that do motivate you.

One determining factor with choosing a career should include selecting a career that you are passion about.  My father and mother would always say these words to me as a child,

“Do something you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

 

I hope these words will settle in your heart, but know there will be challenges.

Diagnosing Your Challenges

 

I have been working in the healthcare industry for almost 10 years now.  One critical part of any healthcare experience is diagnosing the actual injury or issue.

What do you think happens if a patient is diagnosed incorrectly?

It leads to a host of problems.  Problems such as continued sickness/injury, wasted money, doubt, etc.

Whether it is diagnosing an injury / sickness or diagnosing your challenges, it is important to diagnose these correctly.  If you diagnose your challenge incorrectly, it can lead to a multitude of complications.  Complications such as wasted money, purposeless living, lower confidence, reduced achievements, etc.

Just as everyone has their own individual motivations, the same is so with challenges.

When you are able to correctly diagnose your challenges, you will realize that you will be better at defining of your motivation.

Putting It All Together

 

After you have defined your motivation and diagnosed your challenges, now it’s time to move towards treatment.  We will stick with the healthcare illustration.  When we speak of treatment, we start to think about the nature of the treatment.

Defining motivation and diagnosing challenges helps us to decide whether we need to be more conservative or progressive with our treatment.

You may ask the question, “What are we treating?”

Your treatment is your action steps to success.  When you put it all together, it is all about putting actions steps together to move towards success.

Just remember, you cannot come up with a conservative or progressive treatment plan for success without first defining your motivation and diagnosing your challenges.

So set aside about five to ten minutes after reading this blog to define your motivation and diagnose your challenges.  Write these things down and discover what’s assisting and limiting your success.

 

Question: What motivates and challenges you?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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