Financial Literacy

The Giving Zone - Open up a world of inspired opportunity

There are many many people in the world today who have benefited from the timely intervention of a charity . Many who have been helped in this way have gone on to better themselves and, by embracing the spirit of giving that helped them, helped those around them.

Yet how many times have we seen the situation where the same groups and individuals line up time after time for hand outs, never applying any personal effort to change their situation. Although it is very easy to lay the blame firmly with those accepting the handouts, those giving so freely may be more responsible for this situation persisting than they may at first realize.

In his book "The Giving Zone", author, consultant and speaker Bruce Painter highlights a set of very powerful concepts that have the potential to break this co-dependence. Through understanding these, I have come to a position that It is truly possible for the "habitual taker" to become the 'intelligent giver'.

A gifted and accomplished writer, Bruce fully demonstrates the concept of personal growth through serving others. He does this using a unique combination of personal experiences, examples and development exercises. Although Intelligent giving is an idea that is not new, Mr Painter's approach provides a great template to apply in life to create abundances for all.

The book can be obtained through Mr Painters web site at http://www.livinginthegivingzone.com
You can also call Bruce toll-free at 866-319-7736

Happy Giving!

Malcolm

Originally posted to www.tentwentyseventy.com - Sept 21, 2006

The Science of Getting Rich - A review

How many books profess to have the answers to becoming rich? Yes, you are correct; there are lots and lots of them. Of all the books out there that truly contain a great deal of wisdom, a handful have actually been around for many years and helped countless people succeed in obtaining greater wealth.

One such book is "The Science of Getting Rich" by Wallace D Wattles. When it was first published in 1910, it made a significant impact upon those who read and understood it. The book has since grown into a true classic, the wisdom on its pages becoming timeless. It applies as much today as it did in the early part of the last century.

The book is 100 pages, and very concisely written. It is such a good read that it is hard to put down; although I found that I would stop at some of the more profound passages to reflect on the basic truths Wattles presents. I do not know of anyone who would not benefit immensely from reading this book several times.

The key principles Wattles taps into are universal laws: One example is the law of attraction, meaning a person will attract what they most think about. For example, if you mostly think about being sick, guess what you will attract; sickness. However, if you mostly think about wellness, this is what you will attract.

In another example from the book, he promotes that even if you are not doing exactly what you want in life, you should always give 100% effort to your current endeavor. He proposes that, through the universal law of reciprocity, you are more likely to get into the business or area you ultimate desire if you always give your best in your current area, regardless of what it is.

In conclusion, if you are truly serious about becoming wealthy, then I fully recommend reading and re-reading this classic; The more often you referring back to it, the more positive effect it will have.

To your continuously increasing wealth!

Originally posted to www.tentwentyseventy.com - Sept 27, 2006

A truly remarkable read

I just finished reading the excellent "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

This book is remarkable in that it tells the story of how a failed attempt to climb K2 in northern Pakistan turned into one man's quest to bring peace to a highly volative and war torn area by building schools to educate children.

Greg Mortenson's grit and determination to succeed shine through, and, in contrast to the enormous amounts of resource pumped into tackling terrorism by US and other governments, his simple actions have done more to promote people with differing beliefs living together peacefully. It will be no surprise to me if he receives the Nobel Peace prize for his tireless efforts.

A must-read book, I give it a well deserved 10 out of 10.

Click here to go to the book website