"Most people have never learned that one of the main aims in life is to enjoy it." - Samuel Butler

Labels: inspiration, quotes

William James (1842 - 1910), was a pioneering American psychologist and philosopher, who said:

"If you would be learned, you will be learned ... if you would be rich, you will be rich ... but work for whatever it is you want exclusively and don't at the same time wish for a thousand other things.

"We become what we make our minds to become. It is nobody's fault that the great majority of the people never make up their minds to become anything at all."

How true is that?

We are what we make our minds up to become, but it is so easy to be distracted with a million and one different things, especially with the Internet. We are bombarded with new ideas, new information, and new opportunities every day.

But we need to learn to focus and stop ourselves from suffering from information overload.

How many people go through life plodding along, and at the end of it realize they have achieved nothing at all? Don't let this happen to you!

James went on to say:

"There is no more miserable a human being than one in whom nothing is habitual but indecision.

"The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes."

Once you decide to take action and focus on what you want to become, then you will be well on the way to fulfilling your life's calling.

At the end of your life you'll be able to look back and have no regrets.

James said:

"Act as if what you do makes a difference... It does."

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Think about it.

When you're younger there's a notion that if you're talented - at writing, art, sport, music, drama, whatever - you are going to be the next highly successful person.

But in reality this just doesn't always bear out. Talent is not enough.

The world is littered with extremely talented people who just didn't persist or put in the time. Talent alone doesn't get you there. You need to put in the hard slog too.

Persistence is the ability to maintain action regardless of your feelings.

You press on even when you feel like quitting.

When you work on any big goal, sometimes you'll feel motivated; sometimes you won't. But it's not your motivation that will produce results - it's your action.

Persistence allows you to keep taking action even when you don't feel motivated to do so, and therefore you keep moving forward towards your goal.

Persistence will ultimately provide its own motivation. If you simply keep taking action, you'll eventually get results, and results can be very motivating.

For example, you decide to write a novel and struggle with the first three chapters, but than you feel the story is taking a life of its own and is starting to flow on the page. It's then you become a lot more enthusiastic about writing the rest of the novel.

Are you putting enough work into your endeavors, or are you just dreaming of the golden times ahead?

Don't be a dreamer, be a doer!

Now go out there and keep on knocking on those doors of opportunity!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Happy Sunday - I hope you're feeling wonderful today!

I thought I'd dedicate this post to the importance of self-belief in the hope that it might resonate with you.

In order to achieve anything in life, it's essential that you believe it can be done.

Your belief will have a big impact on your actions, which in turn will ensure you get the results you expect!

(It's a sort of Autosuggestion.)

So to be successful and achieve your dreams in life you have to believe in yourself, and you have to take any opportunities that come your way with both hands.

Opportunities are everywhere, but most people don't see them, believing the lucky breaks are not for them. They believe they cannot change and there is no point in even trying. Such people just think they are being realistic.

But we know the truth!

Success is there for anyone who will get off his or her backside and chase it down! You know and truly believe that whatever you want, you can go out there and seize it. You can imagine and feel it before you even have it! Your enthusiasm and belief pulls you to success.

Don't follow the crowd who believe in mediocrity, but follow your own path and live life to the full. Once you understand the power of belief, you will recognize the role it plays in achieving success.

Simply believing that something can be done multiplies your chances of success ten-fold, and it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy!

U.S. Olympic Gold Medallist Gail Devers said:

"Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe."

Wise words!

So, how's your self-belief? Are you a winner? Do you believe that you can create the good stuff in life?

Go out there and show the world what you can do!

Have an inspiring day!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

I love to be out in the world at every opportunity and always find that being in natural surroundings is inspiring and rejuvenating.

Being connected to nature and the outdoors reconnects us to something deeper and keeps us grounded. You are able to be more in touch with who you are, and relationships with others and the world around you take on a deeper meaning.

The Scottish born American naturalist John Muir said:

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you... while cares will drop off like autumn leaves."

When out in the field you're much more likely to feel happy and comforted. You start to feel part of the rhythms of nature, a small part of something much bigger.

And as well as being good for the soul, spending time in the great outdoors - walking, cycling, and other outdoor pursuits - is a great way to stay fit and have fun!

John Shaw, professional nature photographer said:

"We are surrounded by beauty and live in a world of wonder, if only we take the time to see what is all around us and permit ourselves to feel deeply and genuinely. In the smallest detail we might discover tranquil harmony and in the largest expanse elation and joy. We can find meaning and values in caring for the Earth and its creatures."

So put on your walking boots and get out there! Spend a weekend away in a romantic cottage hideaway or treat yourself to a luxury country hotel.

With more space to breathe and more time to share, let the breathtaking natural beauty revitalize your spirit and stir your soul!

Labels: beauty, inspiration, quotes

Today, a quick Karl Blog.com video featuring my four all-time favourite quotes.

I think you'll enjoy it:

(If you can't see the video above, please visit http://www.karlblog.com/)

Be happy! :) x

Labels: quotes, videos

I'd like to dedicate this post to some of the wonderful wisdoms of life provided by the Dalai Lama ...

On 10 December 1989 the Dalai Lama accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of all those who struggle for freedom and work for world peace.

His Holiness follows the life of a Buddhist monk, and often says, "I am just a simple Buddhist monk - no more, nor less".

This worldly wise man lives the simplest of lives, but his teachings are listened to around the world.

The following quotes from the Dalai Lama show us how to live a life of happiness, compassion and love:

"The purpose of our lives is to be happy."

"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions."

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."

"Our prime purpose in this life is to help others, and if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them."

"Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend - or a meaningful day."

"Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible."

"It is very important to generate a good attitude, a good heart, as much as possible. From this, happiness in both the short term and the long term for both yourself and others will come."

"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive."

"Whether one believes in a religion or not, and whether one believes in rebirth or not, there isn't anyone who doesn't appreciate kindness and compassion."

"We can live without religion and meditation, but we cannot survive without human affection."

"Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck."

"Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values."

"We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves."

"With realization of one's own potential and self-confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world."

Although just a `simple monk', the Dalai Lama is incredibly wise and we can all learn from his wisdom.

If everyone just took one quote and lived by it, what a happier world we would live in.

Enjoy your day!

Labels: quotes, self-development

I love inspiring quotes!

They motivate me on a slow day or boost my mood whenever I feel a bit low.

Today, I have three quotes for you which certainly resonate with me.

Perhaps they'll resonate with you?

Let's start with Eleanor Roosevelt:

'The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams'.

That's just so true!

When you're passionate about your goals ... when you truly see the beauty in what you hope to achieve ... you begin that journey into the future.

So believe in the beauty of your dreams!

Next up is Katharine Hepburn:

'If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun'.

I like this one!

What are rules if they're not to be broken from time to time?

Sometimes the best experiences defy the rule book ... or should I say 'what rule book?'!

And let's hear it from George Bernard Shaw:

'Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself'.

Isn't that just so!

Many spend most of their lives asking 'who am I?' ... Well, you don't need to go looking.

You find yourself by creating yourself. There really is no better way of discovering the true you!

Have these given you something to think about?

I hope so!

Have a fantastic day!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

'Where the spirit does not work with the hand, there is no art' - Leonardo da Vinci

Once in a while, someone comes along and changes the world significantly. One such person was Leonardo da Vinci.

I have always been fascinated by the power of human potential ... by the spark of imagination that can lead to great acts, deeds or inventions. And Da Vinci really does lead the way as one of the most shining lights that ever lived.

Some might say that this great man, born April 15 1452, was a visionary. Indeed, Da Vinci, recognized as a scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, painter, sculptor, architect, botanist, musician and writer, has been described as the "Renaissance man" - a man whose "unquenchable curiosity" was equalled only by his powers of invention.

Apart from being an excellent artist - one of the greatest painters - he is recognized as the most diversely talented person ever to have lived.

His scientific vision resulted in him conceptualizing so many inventions that have since come to pass – the helicopter, tank, calculator, the double hull, solar power and an outline of a rudimentary theory of plate tectonics!

He was, without question, a man before his time.

He worked tirelessly and once said:

'A well-spent day brings happy sleep'.

Well, it is obvious from his great art works and his science, which inspired future generations that he did as much as he could in the time that he had.

His quest for knowledge and for the realization of his immense imagination was his driving force.

We all have the spark of genius within us. We all have imagination.

Let's then also make the most of it in the time that we have.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Whatever you create, practice is the key to perfection.

There's no greater example of this maxim than the artist Claude Monet, one of the founding fathers of French Impressionism.

Born in 1840, Monet's art was as much a lesson in life as it was in creativity.

In 1862 he went to Paris and took painting lessons. While there, he got to know Auguste Renoir, Sisley, Bazille and others. But Monet's concern was to reflect the influence of light on a subject and he soon turned away from studio painting in favour of painting in the open air.

The public and art critics ridiculed these new paintings that looked so different from any conventional art style at that time.

But Monet persevered.

Slowly, the public and critics started to recognize the value of impressionism and interest in Monet began to grow.

In 1890 Monet began to paint systematically the same subjects under different light conditions. The first subjects were the haystacks behind his house.

At the end he had painted 25 different versions of the haystacks.

He said:

"I want the unobtainable. Other artists paint a bridge, a house, a boat, and that's the end. They are finished. I want to paint the air which surrounds the bridge, the house, the boat, the beauty of the air in which these objects are located, and that is nothing short of impossible."

After 1907 bad eyesight and rheumatism made it more difficult for Monet to paint, but he continued. His greatest project was centred on his garden with a pond of water lilies and a Japanese bridge. In 1926, at the age of 83, he finished the last great challenge of his life - a commission by the French government for 22 mural paintings of water lilies.

He actually died that year.

The lessons that Monet shares with us are these:

- You must believe in yourself and your work even when your talents are ridiculed.

- You need to practice, practice, practice, to become a master of your craft.

- Even in adversity be determined and focused to complete your life's work.

Know that the impossible is possible!

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

Are you a survivor - or an adventurer?

It's an interesting question and your answer can prove to be quite revealing.

You see, if you consider yourself to be a survivor then it appears that you see life as being a struggle, one that you've had to toil over or made sacrifices for.

Survivors tend to believe that life is one obstacle after another that they have to overcome.

If you consider yourself to be an adventurer, then life has a completely different outlook ... life is full of excitement, abundance and wonderful places to explore.

Adventurers believe that life is full of amazing experiences that they can enthusiastically embrace.

What you choose can make a difference to your outlook on life.

Adventurers tend to have a much more positive experience – even if some of their escapades appear to have been a lesson in survival!

Survivors, on the other hand, tend to have more negative experiences. They think life is going to be tough and, inevitably, it is.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said:

'We are all inventors, each sailing out on a voyage of discovery, guided each by a private chart, of which there is no duplicate. The world is all gates, all opportunities'.

We create our journey ... we decide whether it will be an exercise in survival or a wonderful adventure.

I know which one I'd choose.

Do you?

Enjoy an adventurous day!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

I was only thinking the other day how eccentric some of our most genius minds tend to be.

The greatest scientists, artists, writers and thinkers of times past and present all seem to share a trait for being unconventional or seemingly a little eccentric to say the least.

They tend to be outspoken too ... often rebelling against atrocities or injustice and speaking openly for truth, peace and the future of humanity - regardless of the risks.

Albert Einstein was one such genius, renowned for his eccentricity and for his honest views and passionate outbursts.

Another genius ... who sadly wasn't really recognized as such in his lifetime ... is English poet, painter and printmaker, William Blake.

Born November 28th 1757, Blake has since become known as one of England's greatest poets. Interested in mysticism and a passionate rebel against the harsh realities of life, he channeled his energies through his creative works.

When he was young, it is said that he encountered a vision of angels and these visions returned throughout his life, inspiring much of his work.

Apart from his compassion, his genius was that he could see beyond the ordinary world with visions that have since inspired generations.

In his poem, from Auguries of Innocence, he wrote a verse that continues to touch so many of us:

"To see a world in a grain of sand
And heaven in a wild flower
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand
And eternity in an hour."

Isn't that so beautiful and profound?

And yet, William Blake was considered quite mad by his contemporaries.

Blake died on August 12 1827 and is said to be buried in an unmarked grave.

It's only now in modern times his genius is truly recognized.

If you can, take time out today to learn more about Blake - and enjoy :)

Labels: inspiration, quotes

This may sound like a strange question...

But do you ever stop to think about what you're thinking?

Are you aware of all the jumbled thoughts that pass through your mind on a moment to moment basis?

The mind is such a complex piece of kit. Actually, it's much more than that. Its potential is more far-reaching than any computer - we just haven't fully mastered how to use it. In fact, a lot of mind-power goes to waste.

Even though we haven't fully mastered the workings of the mind, there is a lot we can do with the thoughts that we process every single moment.

For a start, we can practise mindfulness.

Fundamentally, mindfulness is being aware of what you think ... of all those random and not so random thoughts that go through your head. Mindfulness is listening to those thoughts and then choosing to respond in a way that is positive, nurturing and beneficial.

You see, the mind can harbor plenty of self-talk ... and some of that can be pretty negative at times. For example, if you're quite sensitive you can pick up on the moods of others and even on the mood of an entire nation.

And, if you're not mindful, negative feelings can easily escalate inside your head to the detriment of your well-being.

So, practising mindfulness is important, and is a way of maintaining a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.

Aldous Huxley said:

'There's only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that's your own self'.

By being mindful of your thoughts and intentions, you really can improve your experience of life.

I have to say that it's certainly made a difference to me.

Why not give it a try and let me know how you get on!

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

It can take years to accomplish ambitions and dreams.

It can take years for a business to flourish and bloom.

But sometimes, it feels like success will never come.

If that sounds familiar ... stop for a moment.

You could actually be closer to success than what you think!

There's a saying that goes:

'The temptation to quit will be greatest just before you're about to succeed.'

There's a lot of truth in this.

Read any success story ... of entrepreneurs, sportspeople, authors, artists, scientists, or indeed anyone who has been on a journey to achieve something in their lives ... and you'll find plenty of examples of people saying just how close they were to giving up before finally achieving what they set out to do.

It's almost as if it's a final test ...

... to push that extra mile to see whether you really want to succeed. And if you stick to your path, you will end up victorious.

So, just remember that if you ever find yourself on the verge of giving up, you really could be closer than you think!

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

Oh no!

This evening, FedEx delivered the proof copy of "The 18 Rules of Happiness" - the audio CD version of my new book.

It's been recorded, edited, the works. And let me tell you: it looks fantabulous.

I randomly played a track, and listened:

"And that was a quote... from Brarbara De Angelis."

Huh?

Rewind.

"Brarbara De Angelis" - ??!

You must be kidding me.

We got to this late stage in the editing process, and I'm saying a simple English name - as though I'm a tipsy blighter?!

So I worried and worried. The usual OCD kicks in. I logically review the time-cost implication: it'll take me a couple of hours, and delay the whole release by a few weeks in order to correct the error.

Hmm. No biggie.

If I rushed, maybe I could get it down in 30 minutes. And the delay is no major issue.

Then I remembered a quality piece of advice from my friend Nick Daws, in his course, "How to Write Any Book in 28 Days."

He plainly states:

"Good enough is good enough."

Sometimes striving for perfection stops us from ever getting anything out there to the world.

Sometimes we're so set on becoming number one, we fail to realize how far forward we are already.

In the world of business, I've discovered that...

Fate favours brevity.

The quicker you act and react, the more successful you're likely to be.

Little errors like that will always bug and annoy me. But eventually I'll forget about them - and I can learn to be happy with the work I've produced.

Not only that, most people will never even notice a problem. As my friend Mark Sandler often reminds me:

"Don't point out your errors. Nobody notices."

Are YOU holding out for perfection in your life?

Is that striving for perfection holding YOU back from really moving forward?

Are YOU pointing your errors out too much to people?

If so... STOP.

Good enough is good enough. Most people will never notice anyway.

Frick it - and get on with life.

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Labels: friends, inspiration, quotes, self-development

I'm often intrigued by what it is that motivates people in life.

What drives entrepreneurs to achieve great success?

Generally, most tend to think that it's the accumulation of wealth.

And in some cases, it is ... at least for a short time until the individual inevitably realizes that, actually, it's not that at all.

In fact, most enlightened entrepreneurs, on achieving an accumulation of wealth, start to give their gains away!

Honestly. And with startling consistency.

It's usually the ones that cling on to all their wealth that lose their way, and experience a joyless existence.

You see accumulating wealth is a good motivator but giving away accumulated wealth is even better!

There's something about being altruistic that lightens the soul and gives real meaning to life.

But the true wisdom of wealth is that it's not possessions or material items that make us wealthy.

Satish Kumar says:

'The definition of being rich is not that you possess vast quantities of objects and goods, but rather you are rich when you know that you do not need any more.'

True wealth lies in experience ... of being able to live a full and meaningful life.

For me, at least, that is the true definition of wealth.

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Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

If you've followed my blog for a while, you know that kindness features in a lot in my posts.

I greatly believe in practising random acts of kindness and I encourage others to 'pay it forward' as often as possible.

You see, offering a kindness – especially if it's random and anonymously done – can make a real difference in the world. It really can change one or more lives!

And, incredibly, offering just a little kindness only costs us a bit of time and consideration ... yes, that's all!

A little kindness really can go a long way.

The ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tse once said:

'Kindness in words creates confidence.
Kindness in thinking creates profundity.
Kindness in giving creates love.'

When we practise a kindness, we send out so much that is good into the world. We also gain something back ... a wonderful sense of love and fulfilment.

So, whatever you are doing today, practise kindness.

Do something for someone else and I promise you that you'll feel on top of the world!

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Labels: inspiration, quotes, random acts of kindness

I absolutely love what I do.

I enjoy my work immensely and it takes up a large part of my life.

But, you know what?

Although I truly love my work, I enjoy giving even more!

Winston Churchill once said:

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."

I really can't agree more!

Giving ... whether it's a little of your time, expertise, support, funds or love ... is the most fulfilling act you can do.

It makes you feel more alive.

Trust me ... it really does!

So, perhaps today, ask yourself what it is you can give that might make a difference to someone somewhere.

Even the smallest gift can make a profound difference ... especially when given with love.

Have a fab weekend!

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Labels: inspiration, love, quotes

We seem to live in a time where we're constantly looking around us for the next fix ...

... something that will make life seem more meaningful and fulfilling...

Usually that fix is something material.

Perhaps a shiny new car or a stylish new designer wardrobe ... or the attainment of some achievement or goal.

This is perfectly fine.

Providing that we don't mistake materialistic or achievement gains for something that will heal our spirits and fix any emptiness in our lives.

I can't help but quote from Joseph Campbell again ...

He said:

'We're so engaged in doing things to achieve purposes of outer value that we forget the inner value, the rapture that is associated with being alive, is what it is all about.'

Now Joseph really knew what he was talking about.

He could see what potentially ailed a nation.

You see, all the materialistic gains and achievement trophies mean absolutely nothing if your inner landscape ... your inner joy ... is devoid of zest for life.

True happiness and fulfilment starts from within. Once you recognize that, everything else is simply a bonus.

So, ask yourself ... what am I lacking inside?

How do I really feel?

And what can I do right now to connect with my inner joy?

Look within - because that's where the answers reside.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

"To quote oneself is the height of madness." - Karl Moore

Okay, I swear that I'm not an ego-maniac.

But recently, my friend Dr Mel Gill contacted me about a book he's finishing - called The Meta Secret (to tie in with his film of the same name).

He asked if I'd provide a few quotations for the book - swiped from my own up-and-coming books.

Well, I did - and today, I thought I'd share them with you.

It's possible something here may stand out for you today.

Enjoy - and have a great day! :)

* * *

“Self pity is the very worst emotion. Let go of self-pity and you will be happy.”

“Here’s the biggest self-development secret you’ll ever stumble across: Stop feeling sorry for yourself, and you will be happy. It doesn’t get any simpler.”

“You are not your emotions. Learn to let go of your emotions – as easily as you’d let go of a ball.”

“You are not your emotions. You can turn of negative emotions, just as easily as you’d switch off a light. Simply ask yourself the question – Can I let this go?”

“Nothing is either bad or good, but thinking makes it so.” - Shakespeare

“You are only what exists in this moment.”

“You don’t know when you’ve reached a peak until you’re coming down. And you don’t know when you’re in a trough until you’re climbing out. It’s all good. If you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put up with the rain.” - David Brent

“No self-development system will set you free. No religion will set you free. True freedom comes from inside. It comes from realizing there are no rules.”

“In life, we usually get the results we expect. By setting a good intention, we’ve already quadrupled the chance of a positive outcome. Quite simply, intention sets direction.”

“We each spend 95% of our time, either worrying about the past or fretting over the future. Stop it. True happiness can be found in the Now. Live in the Now more, and you will be happy.”

“By saying yes more to life we open ourselves up to its possibilities. We give ourselves to fate. If you want to live a happier, stress-free, more adventurous life, say yes more.”

“Everything changes. People die, kids grow up, companies shut down. Change is the only constant in this world. Get used to it, and find comfort in the fact that: even this shall pass.”

“You don’t need an epiphany to be self-developed. You don’t need to meditate daily, or give up your material goods. Don’t follow the spiritual sheep. Find your own freedom.”

“Sadness, negativity, death – these things are all part of life. Embrace them, because without them, there would be no opposite. Happiness, positivity, life.”

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

The other day, I read an interesting article about two scientists.

One is a household name ... the genius that is Einstein; and the other ... a British scientist, who is perhaps lesser known but no less significant, called Eddington.

What struck me about these two men was their passion for living a truthful life and one that could ultimately benefit others.

Sir Arthur Stanley Eddington was a British Astro-Physicist who, amongst many other achievements, helped clarify Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity. Born in Kendal in the UK, on the 28th December 1882, Eddington grew up as a Quaker – a peace-loving man of good morals and great compassion for his fellow humans.

While at Cambridge, Eddington closely followed Einstein's work.

But, as Einstein was based in Germany for a while, the war years meant that communication between the two scientists was difficult. Both men were campaigners for peace and believed that the greater cause of science ... to help human-kind rather than destroy it ... transcended war and the restrictions that war caused. They strongly believed that all scientists –regardless of their nationalities – should work together for common good.

Both men, though very different in character, stood proudly for what they believed in and lived their lives following their truth, despite often facing adversity or pressure to change.

Ultimately, they represent what is good for science and humanity and are shining examples for those of us seeking inspiration to live authentically.

You see, there are times when you have to stand up for what you believe in ... you must always be true to yourself.

Why? Well, if you're not true to yourself then you're living a lie.

And living a lie is uncomfortable and pointless.

Being true to your self means that you live authentically – with purpose and meaning. Doing so means that you can reach your fullest potential, and shine like the star that you truly are.

So, look within and ask yourself ... 'Am I being true to myself?'

Ask: 'Am I living a meaningful life?'

If not, resolve how you can change it so that you are.

Believe ... you really can make a difference!

Let me leave you with one of Einstein's quotes:

'Only one who devotes himself to a cause with his whole strength and soul can be a true master. For this reason mastery demands all of a person.'

Have an inspiring day!

Labels: history, inspiration, quotes, self-development

I absolutely love life!

I embrace every moment ... every experience ... and look for ways of sharing that joy at every opportunity.

Life doesn't always go to plan though. I have my off-days just like anyone else.

C'est la vie!

And it's all the more reason to smile, laugh and enjoy creating fun-filled moments.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said:

'Make the most of yourself – for that is all there is of you'.

Can't argue with that!

After all, our thoughts make up our reality.

To a greater extent, we choose the experiences that make up our lives by choosing how we react to everything that comes our way.

So, if we think life is cruel and unkind, then it is.

If we think life is great and full of opportunity, it is.

Our thoughts create our experiences.

So, what do you think of life so far?

Is it working out as you'd like?

If not, what can you do to change it?

Life really is what you make it. And like Emerson said:

Make the most of yourself!

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

How cluttered is your life?

Do you often feel as though you're drowning in all the complexities of your daily routine?

Perhaps you're ready to clear out the junk ... and I don't just mean all the excesses in your living space (though it's good to have a clear out there too!) ... but also the mental junk that you carry around with you.

American poet Henry David Thoreau said...

'Life is frittered away by detail. Simplify; simplify!'

How true!

You see, we don't need all the clutter ... whether that's unresolved emotional baggage or unnecessary daily routines that take up all our time and energy.

We can let go!

Start by de-cluttering your living and work space.

Clear out your wardrobes and cupboards. Donate clothes, accessories, books and bric-a-brac to charity. Recycle all those old magazines and newspapers. Tidy up your work space by filing everything away.

Once you have a tidy space, the "energy" in that space improves.

Now, do the same with your daily routines. Look at everything that you do in a day. Is everything completely necessary?

Let go of redundant or superfluous habits.

Delete everything that is "obligation." Think through your daily routine - what are you doing that you don't enjoy? Simplify your life and notice how much more time you have free as a result!

Once you've done this, consider how you can de-clutter your mind.

Clear out all those unwanted, negative thoughts. Let go of those emotions that have drained you of vital energy. Allow your mind to be still by meditating each day and notice how much clarity you gain from quietening your thoughts.

Remember ... time is the only true currency ... so simplify your life and claim more of it.

Make sure you use your time wisely by doing what makes you happy.

Enjoy the simple bliss of this moment!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

"Expect your every need to be met. Expect the answer to every problem, expect abundance on every level."

- Eileen Caddy

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Are you battling with a problem that you cannot do anything about?

If so, let it go!

It may not be the answer you want to hear, but once you let go, life lightens up for you.

You see, there are some things you can change and there are some things you can't change.

Learning to accept what is will help your life flow without stress or turmoil.

Knowing what you can or can't change is the key.

For example, you book a camping holiday but accept that you can't do anything to book nice weather. So, if it blows a gale and throws down enough rain to fill a lake, you just have to accept that's the way it is.

You then have choices ...accept the way it is and moan or accept the way it is and have fun.

Accepting what is allows you to bring out your better qualities.

When you stop dwelling on the things you can't change, you avoid anxiety and all those pesky emotions that make you feel frustrated and depressed.

You start to flow with life.

So, if you're in a situation that is causing you some stress, first ask yourself ... Can I change this?

If you can, then do so!

If it's something that you really can't change, then ask yourself ...

Can I accept this?

Acceptance can be challenging because the ego fights it.

It's in our nature to try and control and shape a situation to suit us. When we can't, our ego cries, shouts and makes as much noise as possible.

Realize that it's just your ego that holds you back, and gently accept. 

T.S. Eliot once said...

"Only by acceptance of the past, can you alter it."

Life will flow more freely when you accept what is.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

If the world is a stage and we are acting out the great story that is life then consider this...

There are no rehearsals!

The live performance is right NOW!

But don't panic! Everything is going just as it should.

Ok, so what about preparation? ... What if I do something stupid or forget my lines?

You know, it doesn't really matter.

What do you need to prepare for? You are fully equipped with all that you need to live a full and happy life.

As to acting stupid, life allows for a little silliness.

There's a fantastic lyrical line in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which goes something like ...

"A little nonsense now and then is cherished by the wisest men".

How completely true!

As to forgetting your lines, it's okay to make mistakes because these are what shape us.

Anyway, if you forget your lines or do something silly, you'll make people laugh. And there's nothing wrong with that. It takes talent and a beautiful persona to make someone smile - so that's a bonus!

Besides, there aren't really any mistakes ... just lessons that can help us improve.

So, you're live on stage now.

Let go of the nerves.

Have fun! Give your best and be yourself!

And, don't forget, play out your dreams.

After all, this is your story!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Are you always finding fault with the world around you?

Are you so focused on the bad stuff that you forget about the good?

Finding faults with the world destroys your inner harmony.

When you're focused on all that you perceive is wrong or bad, you absorb those qualities into your life.

You'll find that you have more hassles, more faulty products and services, and more dissatisfaction.

So, why not focus on the good stuff!

There's absolutely loads of good out there ... more than you can imagine!

And what you can't see, you can "manifest" (as people like to say) ... simply by focusing on good things.

When you seek out the good, celebrate it. 

If you've been complaining a lot of late, shift your focus. Start congratulating those who have given you excellent service or good products.

Be thankful for kindness, no matter how small. 

Show your gratitude for all that is right and good, and notice how the energy changes.

You start to "attract" (as people like to say) positive experiences into your life.

You'll realize just how much good there is and how much better life can be.

Lakeland poet William Wordsworth once said...

"Pleasure is spread through the earth in stray gifts to be claimed by whoever shall find."

So, focus on the good ... the gifts are everywhere!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Life is a gift.

In fact, every moment is a gift.

And, when you are open to life's gifts, you create abundance.

Life is also a great adventure ... a journey of discovery ... and you receive the journey that is meant for you at this time.

This journey will offer many gifts but you may not always see it until you open your eyes.

In some situations, you may think your particular journey is devoid of gifts or takes you to a dead-end. But just go with the flow and see what materializes.

Be open-minded.

The most difficult journey or challenging adventure always offers the best gifts, so bear this in mind while you're travelling.

Albert Einstein once said...

"The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift."

So, don't forget that sacred gift ... your intuition, your inner wisdom, your sense of exploration, your wild, curious spirit ...

Life is an adventure waiting to happen. 

It is a glorious, multi-color, techno-adventure - right here in YOUR town.

You just have to find it and start the journey.

So where will you find your big adventure today?

What gifts are in store just for you?

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Are you living in the flow of life?

Or are you fighting a raging current? Or perhaps even stuck in a stagnant pool?

Sometimes, we fight too hard to achieve our goals or we slip into inertia purely out of laziness or believing that everything is too difficult.

Often, we place too much pressure on ourselves, trying to conform and keep up with our friends and neighbours. 

Frequently, we may punish ourselves for not being good enough, quick enough, brilliant enough or beautiful enough.

The waters of our life become polluted when we don't trust in the natural flow.

Poet William Henry Davies once said with great wisdom: "A poor life this if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare."

Take your time. Breathe!

Reflect on what's important to you right now.

When we relax into an easy pace, and treat ourselves with tender loving care, life starts to flow.

When we let go of the thoughts of pressure, problems, challenges, stress, desperation, and so on - and reinvigorate those thoughts with positive enthusiasm - we step into our equilibrium.

Everything has its time.

And remember, you don't need to be perfect. You don't need to be anything. All you do is simply be.

So let go of impatience and yearning and limiting thoughts.

Just trust in the flow of life.

Simply BE.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Are you feeling happy right now?

If so, hurrah!

Spread some of that happiness into the world around you. Smile and lighten up those dark corners in the world.

If you're not happy, then ask yourself why.

What is stealing you from happiness and what can you do to be happy again? Maybe you can just decide... to be happy?

Remember, happiness is quite simply a choice.

You can choose to be happy at any point.

Happiness isn't conditional. It isn't attached to anyone or anything. It's free and represents the joy of living.

Your natural state is happiness, so seize it right this moment.

And do what makes you happy ... live fully; fill each moment with beauty; love; and offer kindness.

HH the Dalai Lama said...

"When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace."

No matter what else is going on in your life right now, you can still have happiness at your heart's core.

You can use the positive energy of your inner joy to resolve other feelings.

So, embrace happiness.

Live your life with happiness.

Be the happy, beautiful being you were born to be.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

I've just received this quote from David Riklan.

Now, for those that don't know, he's the founder of the #1 self-development site on the Web - SelfGrowth.com.

Speaking to his newsletter subscribers, he said:

"I personally believe the Brain Evolution System to be one of the most powerful self-development technologies on earth.

"Double your ability to learn, think like a genius, release stress - just by spending 30 minutes listening to a simple audio recording."

Learn what he's talking about at http://www.trybrainev.com/

Or to uncover more user experiences, visit:

http://www.brainev.com/benefits-research/testimonials.aspx

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Today, I return to my home city - after weeks of travelling.

I initially visited Frankfurt for filming of The Meta Secret, then to Orlando for meetings with industry experts such as Ed Dale and Dan Raine.

But you know something?

I'm tired, and I'll be thrilled to return home.

To cuddle my dog. To hug my family. To squeeze my quilt.

Freya Stark said: "To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world."

I disagree.

To awake in your own home, with your own routine, with your own comforts and friends surrounding - that is truly the most pleasant sensation.

Cesare Pavese put it more direct:

"Traveling is a brutality. It forces you to trust strangers and to lose sight of all that familiar comfort of home and friends. You are constantly off balance. Nothing is yours except the essential things - air, sleep, dreams, the sea, the sky - all things tending towards the eternal or what we imagine of it."

Yes, that exploration of the world is a beautiful thing.

But home?

There's truly no place like it.

And if you're not appreciating that today... maybe you should.

Labels: quotes, ramblings

"Write to be understood, speak to be heard, read to grow."
- Lawrence Clark Powell

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"The way to succeed is to double your error rate."
- Thomas J. Watson

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"Courage is saying, 'Maybe what I'm doing isn't working; maybe I should try something else.'"
- Anna Lappe, writer

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"Start every day off with a smile and get it over with."
-- W. C. Fields  

Labels: quotes

Labels: quotes

We've all heard that popular saying...

"A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step."

Well, it's actually a slight mistranslation.

A more accurate translation of this quotation from Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu, would be:

"Even the longest journey must begin from where you stand."

Rather than emphasizing that first step, Lau Tzu regarded action as something that naturally arose from stillness.

When was the last time YOU were truly still?

When did you last give yourself even FIVE MINUTES to allow your mind to relax?

And what ideas popped into your mind?

What action can naturally arise from YOUR stillness?

Why not give yourself time today - and explore for yourself?

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

“I say to you, this morning, that if you have never found something so dear and precious to you that you will die for it, then you aren’t fit to live.

"You may be 38 years old, as I happen to be, and one day, some great opportunity stands before you and calls upon you to stand for some great principle, some great issue, some great cause.

"And you refuse to do it because you are afraid.

"You refuse to do it because you want to live longer. You’re afraid that you will lose your job, or you are afraid that you will be criticized or that you will lose your popularity, or you’re afraid that somebody will stab or shoot or bomb your house. So you refuse to take a stand.

"Well, you may go on and live until you are ninety, but you are just as dead at 38 as you would be at ninety.

"And the cessation of breathing in your life is but the belated announcement of an earlier death of the spirit.

"You died when you refused to stand up for right.

"You died when you refused to stand up for truth.

"You died when you refused to stand up for justice."

- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
From the sermon “But, If Not” delivered at Ebenezer Baptist Church on November 5, 1967.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

"Fortune favours the bold."
- Virgil

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Life is exciting! 

There's just so much you can achieve.

Yet in the desire to attain success, impatience can set in.

If you let impatience rule, then you start looking for ways to speed towards the outcome and in doing so neglect the vital foundations that you need to get there.

Often, it pays to be 'slow but sure' rather than 'fast and rash.'

After all, giant oaks rise slowly from tiny acorns. It takes years of patience for a tree to grow. There are no short-cuts for the oak ... no quick growing formula. It all takes time and nourishment.

As that acorn takes root, pushes through the soil and grows up under the light, it begins to establish its foundations in order to be strong and tall.

Its only goal is to become a great oak tree and it becomes just that in its own time.

So, first things first ... focus on your roots or foundations.

Sai Baba said...

"A house must be built on solid foundations if it is to last. The same principle applies to man, otherwise he too will sink back into the soft ground and becomes swallowed up by the world of illusion."

Whether you wish to succeed in business, sport, science, the arts or simply as being the best person you could possibly be, make sure your foundations are strong.

These solid foundations will carry you so much further through life. You'll be able to depend upon them. 

Concentrate on what needs to be done.

Don't cheat because you'll only be cheating yourself.

Stay focused, work productively, prioritize what needs to be accomplished and just do it!

Remember, all things have their time.

So, like the oak, grow firm roots and success will follow.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Being spontaneous makes life fun and exciting.

It's good for the soul to break routine occasionally and follow a flight of fancy.

Now, I admit that I'm certainly not a spontaneous type naturally.

But I do make an active effort to be more spontaneous. (I call it "planned spontaneity.")

Being spontaneous is the most natural thing and yet we don't give ourselves enough freedom.

Remember how you felt as a child?

You probably didn't have a strict 'to-do' list for living your day.

More probably, you were out playing, having fun and being totally spontaneous.

Okay, so you've grown up now but that doesn't mean you can't be spontaneous.

You can still have fun, adventure and excitement! You can still go out to play!

Today ... in fact, right this moment ... be spontaneous.

Follow a random thought ... do something new ... go somewhere different ... just act spontaneously and enjoy the experience.

Explore somewhere new.

Take a different path to your normal routine.

Try something that you haven't done before.

Just take a day off, go into the mountains or by the sea and relax.

Being spontaneous leaves you feeling vital and passionate about life ... and it's a feeling that remains with you for a long time.

So, be spontaneous. Go out to play. Let your spirit fly free for a while.

Simply enjoy the moment!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Here’s another quote by emperor and philosopher, Marcus Aurelius.

"He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the universe."

No truer words!

Harmony most definitely comes from within. And that’s official!

It’s pointless going out looking for it, because it’s already there inside you just waiting to be tuned in and switched on.

Yep, that’s right.

We can tune in and switch on to our harmonious wavelength RIGHT NOW!

By taking time to nurture our souls, work out what makes us happy and start adopting a more balanced outlook, we can alter our experiences so that they become more positive and harmonious.

Marcus Aurelius, in his infinite wisdom, also said...

"Our life is what our thoughts make it."

He really knew what he was talking about.

So, try making your thoughts a little more harmonious today - and see how your life changes for the better.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

"The finest steel has to go through the hottest fire."
- John N. Mitchell

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus governed the Roman Empire from 96 to 180.

And he's attributed with some fantastic quotes.

Today’s wisdom from Marcus Aurelius is...

"Everything that happens happens as it should, and if you observe carefully, you will find this to be so."

This curious quote suggests that life unfolds for us exactly as it is supposed to and that everything has its time. Life is just as it should be.

If that is the case, and we can learn to go more with the flow of life, there would be greater contentment.

So, today, just try going with the flow instead of trying too hard or forcing a result. Be more laid-back about your day, and see what happens.

Sit back and watch the world go by.

Simply embrace the moment and quietly observe - just as Marcus Aurelius did.

Enjoy your day!

Labels: inspiration, quotes

"If you haven't got charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble."
-- Bob Hope

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"An ounce of loyalty is worth a pound of cleverness."
- Elbert Green Hubbard

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Labels: quotes

I'm a big believer in giving fate a helping hand.

Simple changes in your lifestyle can reap profound results.

Such as the idea of saying "Yes!" to everything for a week. (Read more here.) Or spinning a wheel to figure out the destination of your next holiday, a la Dice Man.

I'm also something of a coin-tosser!

I regularly flick a penny to figure out which way I should go.

Should I turn left or right? Should I go on the walk tonight, or not? Should I ask her out on a date, or no?

But here's the thing about such mini-gambles.

We already know the outcome we desire.

How many times have you thrown the coin, only to get the wrong outcome... then said "Okay, best of three!"

(Watch the end of this episode of Peep Show for a fantastic example of this!)

Despite our attempt to surrender to fate, sometimes we already know we want to take the risk... and try to use a coin to convince us into the situation.

Well, here's a thought.

The next time you're in a position where you need convincing... where you need a little encouragement to break through your comfort zone...

... Forget the coin tossing altogether.

Just make a pact with yourself NOW that you'll just DO IT, without too much deep thought and analysis to put you off.

In my experience, fate favours speed.

Make the decision. Make it quickly. And get to it.

You already know what you should be doing, so just follow that gut instinct (even if it may seem slightly scary), and put your best foot forward.

Love-lecturer Leo Buscaglia said of risks:

"The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing, is nothing, and becomes nothing. He may avoid suffering and sorrow, but he simply cannot learn and feel and change and grow and love and live."

Think about it.

And have a wonderous, risk-taking, coin-free day!

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

I don't know about you, but I'm quite a sensitive person.

Sometimes even a little overly-sensitive.

Yesterday, I took a sensitivity test and scored 7/10. That's practically paranoia!

But we're all sensitive at times.

Think about it.

How many times have you taken offence - just because somebody turns their back on you in a bar?

How many times have you thought a person didn't embrace you as much as you'd expect?

How many times have you walked back to a table, to hear the laughter suddenly die down - and wondered if they were talking about you?

It's happened to us all. Probably.

And sometimes it's important to pay attention to such matters. After all, being sensitive is a wonderful trait.

But here's the thing to remember.

"Reality" is entirely relative.

The snub in the bar may have been accidental. The non-embrace may have been because the person's dog just died. The laughter may have been about something else altogether.

Being overly-sensitive often makes life way too stressful.

So, the next time you get that oh-so-familiar feeling of over-sensitivity, just think to yourself...

"Forget it. I'm being overly sensitive - and it's just possible I don't know all the facts."

Then slap yourself around the face and get on with it.

Because life is too short to be worrying about detail.

Tenzin Gyatso wrote: "We also often add to our pain and suffering by being overly sensitive, over-reacting to minor things, and sometimes taking things too personally."

Wolfgang added: "Do not give in too much to feelings. A overly sensitive heart is an unhappy possession on this shaky earth."

If this sounds like you, take a check on your feelings - and stop taking things so personally.

Maybe - just maybe - it's all working out perfectly.

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development

Today, I'd like to chat about that distinctly human quality...

Hope.

The idea that things can change. That it can get better, that the day will be brighter tomorrow, that people will smile again.

When life seems empty, hollow, lacking direction - and just plain pointless - hope is the one thing that pulls us through.

And the great thing about you and me - is that we have it.

Miles and miles of unlimited hope, all stored neatly inside ourselves.

Think about it.

Are you feeling sorry for yourself right now?

Are there things in your life you've resigned yourself to having lost... or having second best... ?

Is there something you know you should change?

We always have HOPE.

A belief - an intention - of change for the better.

A knowingness that we can always hope for a brighter today - and accept those things we simply can't change (and maybe even become stupidly obsessed about).

Scottish author Alexander Chalmers said "The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for."

In the areas of your life that are hollow right now...

... How's your hope looking?

And here's a thought.

Why not pump up your hope? Make it big and bright and beautiful. Keep it high. Stop feeling sorry for yourself - and get out and change the world.

Remember, your HOPE - your intention - sets your direction. (Read more about that here.)

So, hope for better things - and then make them happen.

Then get ready for many, many happy endings!

Love - Karlos ;)

PS. Here's a great video to get you inspired today! I absolutely love this song. Keep fascinated! Reading this by e-mail? View the video online at www.karlblog.com. Whoo-oh, whooh-ohhh!

Labels: inspiration, quotes, self-development, videos

When making choices in life, how often do you trust your intuition?

Most times, we instinctively know what is right for us ...

It's just we don't always act on our instincts.

Other influences may play their part in the choices we make ... ego, other points of view, experience, circumstances or comfort zones.

We will make what are considered to be informed decisions rather than follow a hunch because it seems more logical to do so.

After all, intuition is so vague and transient.

Yet, gut instinct is often right. And the more you start acting on your intuition, the more in-tune you become with your inner wisdom.

Using your intuition to make choices on a daily basis makes you more sensitive to "psychic" energy.

You start to acclimatize to subtle thoughts and feelings and are able to differentiate intuitive thoughts from ego-based thoughts to make choices that are right for you.

Start trusting in your instincts today.

The more you tune-in to that small voice of wisdom that resides inside you, the better choices you'll make.

And remember the wisdom of Martin Luther King Jr. ...He said:

'The time is always right to do what is right. '

Listen to your inner voice ... reflect on your gut-feeling ... and do the right thing.

Labels: inspiration, quotes

Is the world weighing heavy on your shoulders?

Are you tired and finding that everything requires just too much effort?

If so, it's time to take a break and lighten up.

Take a day off and relax.

Too busy? Well, life isn't going to stop just because you're taking a well-earned break.

Reflect on why you're feeling so weighed down.

Have you taken on too many commitments? Are you not asking for the help or support that you need? Are you involved in energy-robbing disputes or relationships?

Think about it and take action to change the situation.

It's possible that your chosen path isn't right for you at this moment or that you need to take a different path or course of action.

Of course, you may simply need some time out or a bit of TLC.

If that's the case, treat yourself.

Have fun!

Do something that you really love doing just for relaxation and a change of scene.

You'll find that taking a break will help you lighten up so that you feel rejuvenated.

And if you really feel down in the dumps, laugh!

Roll about laughing. Feel the positive energy of laughter.

There is a Yiddish proverb that goes...

"What soap is to the body, laughter is to the soul."

It doesn't matter if you feel that you have nothing to laugh about. Start laughing and wake up that tired spirit that has been squashed for so long because of the perceived pressures of the world.

Laugh and the entire world lightens up!

Give it a try.

Labels: interviews, quotes

One friend of mine, Joe Vitale, is in the habit of saying "Aude aliquid dignum!"

Or... "Dare Something Worthy."

Today's post is just a reminder of that. And I'm going to do it by giving a little perspective.

A few weeks ago, I watched the movie Contact, starring Jodie Foster. It's based on the novel by late Carl Sagan. Although I don't necessarily share all of Carl's views, he was a great man... and no matter what he may think, he's somewhere out there :)

The introduction to the movie however included an amazing three minutes of tracking back. From a picture of earth and its various radio signals... out into deep, deep space.

It's staggering -- and it should make you realize that we aren't that big after all.

Our actions really aren't of any real significance.

This blog post is hardly likely to ever go down in history. And as far as the "BIG EVERYTHING" is concerned, Karl Moore is hardly likely to ever really mean anything.

All we're ever likely to be, or do, or anything... is what we be, or do, RIGHT NOW.

So what could YOU dare that is worthy today?

And why not JUST DO IT...

After all, it's really not that big a deal in the grand scheme of things.

Lloyd Jones said: "If you have tried to do something and failed you are vastly better than if you had tried to do nothing and succeeded."

So go on. Dare something worthy.

Now I'll leave you with my second favourite scene in the movie. The timewarps!

(If you're reading this via e-mail, visit the official site at www.karlblog.com to view the videos.)

Labels: inspiration, quotes, videos