Confident Eye Contact
Improving Self-Confidence through Eye Contact
It’s a cliché to say that the eyes are the windows to the soul, but in more ways than one, they are. The eyes are also the mirrors of self-confidence. A person can easily assess another person’s self-confidence by engaging in eye contact. People with low self-confidence hate making eye contact. They would tend to look at the ground as if they are looking for a lost coin.
The eyes are the first things which are noticed in the human face and they leave a long-lasting impression to the beholder. It’s fairly normal to hear someone say “I like girls with beautiful eyes,” when he is being asked about his idea of an attention-grabbing face. The eyes can make statements at a glance like no other part of the body can make. Imagine a short film which is entirely composed of a shot of a human face with the eyes slowly pouring out tears.
Even with no words, the eyes can reveal a lot about someone. A person who is trying to hide his unhappiness can never really pretend to be happy without people noticing it. The eyes can tell stories that are never meant to be told. They can decipher thoughts and insecurities which are engraved in the deepest holes of one’s souls.
The eyes also act as a meter to one’s self-confidence. The eyes play a big role in making relationships, building careers and in portraying sincerity and competence, in general.
Girl in a Bar
Making eye contact can start relationships. For example, if a man finds a likable girl in a party or a bar, he would look at her when she is not looking, once the girl looks back, the man would try to hold his stare for a few seconds then he would turn away. He would repeat this set of moves for a few times while prolonging his stare after every move. He would then make his move towards the girl or back away permanently. What happens here? In making eye contact, one can convey interest towards someone else. The man’s stare definitely should get the message across to the girl. Once the move is done, the reactions of the girl are assessed. Making eye contact is a give and receive thing. One must not only convey but he must also listen to the response through his eyes. Holding the right length of eye contact will set the move for introducing oneself. Holding eye contact to long may get someone accused of being a maniac or a freak, while not holding it at all will portray someone as shy person with a low self-esteem and a lot of insecurities.
Job Interviews
Interviews only last a few seconds long because more often than not, the verdict will be made through first impression. Making eye contact with the interviewer will make him see one’s seriousness in getting the job. A lousy applicant will avoid eye contact because of fear. This is not a very good thing to do because interviews are primarily done to test someone’s ability to handle pressure. Interviews are also meant to display someone’s ability to express him or her self and what better way to instantly express one’s personality than through eye contact?
Speaking in Public
One of the main factors that can make or break the delivery of a presentation to an audience is eye contact. Eye contact helps take the fear away from the speaker by getting the audience closer to him. Stress is mainly a result of being with the unknown and uncontrollable. Eye contact gives the speaker a picture of the reality that is the audience. It also helps in getting the attention of the audience. People in the audience would like to feel noticed and making eye contact with them makes them feel that the presentation is being delivered at the personal level.
Making eye contact is an essential tool in expressing oneself and getting responses from others. The eyes can tell the story of someone’s life in one glance. People should not be afraid or feel awkward in making eye contact as long as it is done in a courteous and proper manner.
Monday, December 30, 2013
Confident Eye Contact.
Confident Eye Contact
Improving Self-Confidence through Eye Contact
It’s a cliché to say that the eyes are the windows to the soul, but in more ways than one, they are. The eyes are also the mirrors of self-confidence. A person can easily assess another person’s self-confidence by engaging in eye contact. People with low self-confidence hate making eye contact. They would tend to look at the ground as if they are looking for a lost coin.
The eyes are the first things which are noticed in the human face and they leave a long-lasting impression to the beholder. It’s fairly normal to hear someone say “I like girls with beautiful eyes,” when he is being asked about his idea of an attention-grabbing face. The eyes can make statements at a glance like no other part of the body can make. Imagine a short film which is entirely composed of a shot of a human face with the eyes slowly pouring out tears.
Even with no words, the eyes can reveal a lot about someone. A person who is trying to hide his unhappiness can never really pretend to be happy without people noticing it. The eyes can tell stories that are never meant to be told. They can decipher thoughts and insecurities which are engraved in the deepest holes of one’s souls.
The eyes also act as a meter to one’s self-confidence. The eyes play a big role in making relationships, building careers and in portraying sincerity and competence, in general.
Girl in a Bar
Making eye contact can start relationships. For example, if a man finds a likable girl in a party or a bar, he would look at her when she is not looking, once the girl looks back, the man would try to hold his stare for a few seconds then he would turn away. He would repeat this set of moves for a few times while prolonging his stare after every move. He would then make his move towards the girl or back away permanently. What happens here? In making eye contact, one can convey interest towards someone else. The man’s stare definitely should get the message across to the girl. Once the move is done, the reactions of the girl are assessed. Making eye contact is a give and receive thing. One must not only convey but he must also listen to the response through his eyes. Holding the right length of eye contact will set the move for introducing oneself. Holding eye contact to long may get someone accused of being a maniac or a freak, while not holding it at all will portray someone as shy person with a low self-esteem and a lot of insecurities.
Job Interviews
Interviews only last a few seconds long because more often than not, the verdict will be made through first impression. Making eye contact with the interviewer will make him see one’s seriousness in getting the job. A lousy applicant will avoid eye contact because of fear. This is not a very good thing to do because interviews are primarily done to test someone’s ability to handle pressure. Interviews are also meant to display someone’s ability to express him or her self and what better way to instantly express one’s personality than through eye contact?
Speaking in Public
One of the main factors that can make or break the delivery of a presentation to an audience is eye contact. Eye contact helps take the fear away from the speaker by getting the audience closer to him. Stress is mainly a result of being with the unknown and uncontrollable. Eye contact gives the speaker a picture of the reality that is the audience. It also helps in getting the attention of the audience. People in the audience would like to feel noticed and making eye contact with them makes them feel that the presentation is being delivered at the personal level.
Making eye contact is an essential tool in expressing oneself and getting responses from others. The eyes can tell the story of someone’s life in one glance. People should not be afraid or feel awkward in making eye contact as long as it is done in a courteous and proper manner.
Improving Self-Confidence through Eye Contact
It’s a cliché to say that the eyes are the windows to the soul, but in more ways than one, they are. The eyes are also the mirrors of self-confidence. A person can easily assess another person’s self-confidence by engaging in eye contact. People with low self-confidence hate making eye contact. They would tend to look at the ground as if they are looking for a lost coin.
The eyes are the first things which are noticed in the human face and they leave a long-lasting impression to the beholder. It’s fairly normal to hear someone say “I like girls with beautiful eyes,” when he is being asked about his idea of an attention-grabbing face. The eyes can make statements at a glance like no other part of the body can make. Imagine a short film which is entirely composed of a shot of a human face with the eyes slowly pouring out tears.
Even with no words, the eyes can reveal a lot about someone. A person who is trying to hide his unhappiness can never really pretend to be happy without people noticing it. The eyes can tell stories that are never meant to be told. They can decipher thoughts and insecurities which are engraved in the deepest holes of one’s souls.
The eyes also act as a meter to one’s self-confidence. The eyes play a big role in making relationships, building careers and in portraying sincerity and competence, in general.
Girl in a Bar
Making eye contact can start relationships. For example, if a man finds a likable girl in a party or a bar, he would look at her when she is not looking, once the girl looks back, the man would try to hold his stare for a few seconds then he would turn away. He would repeat this set of moves for a few times while prolonging his stare after every move. He would then make his move towards the girl or back away permanently. What happens here? In making eye contact, one can convey interest towards someone else. The man’s stare definitely should get the message across to the girl. Once the move is done, the reactions of the girl are assessed. Making eye contact is a give and receive thing. One must not only convey but he must also listen to the response through his eyes. Holding the right length of eye contact will set the move for introducing oneself. Holding eye contact to long may get someone accused of being a maniac or a freak, while not holding it at all will portray someone as shy person with a low self-esteem and a lot of insecurities.
Job Interviews
Interviews only last a few seconds long because more often than not, the verdict will be made through first impression. Making eye contact with the interviewer will make him see one’s seriousness in getting the job. A lousy applicant will avoid eye contact because of fear. This is not a very good thing to do because interviews are primarily done to test someone’s ability to handle pressure. Interviews are also meant to display someone’s ability to express him or her self and what better way to instantly express one’s personality than through eye contact?
Speaking in Public
One of the main factors that can make or break the delivery of a presentation to an audience is eye contact. Eye contact helps take the fear away from the speaker by getting the audience closer to him. Stress is mainly a result of being with the unknown and uncontrollable. Eye contact gives the speaker a picture of the reality that is the audience. It also helps in getting the attention of the audience. People in the audience would like to feel noticed and making eye contact with them makes them feel that the presentation is being delivered at the personal level.
Making eye contact is an essential tool in expressing oneself and getting responses from others. The eyes can tell the story of someone’s life in one glance. People should not be afraid or feel awkward in making eye contact as long as it is done in a courteous and proper manner.
Friday, December 27, 2013
5 Ways to Feel Empowered Each Day.
“If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.” – Thomas A Edison
The question we need to explore is not what we know but what we embrace and practice in our life on a daily basis. Most of my clients and people I talk with know what they are supposed to do but doing it is always the issue. Given that we are mid-way through the year, it’s the perfect reflection point to take note of what’s working in your life and what small changes you can implement that will make a positive impact. The consistent small actions add up and often lead to amazing results by year-end.
Here are five powerful yet simple ways to make a meaningful difference in your life on a daily basis:
1. Be The CEO of You Inc.
You Inc. represents all the different areas of your life including Career, Relationships, Finances, Healthy Living, Fun & Creativity, and Personal Growth. You need to invest in and be mindful of each of the areas to present your best self on a daily basis. The key theme to realize is that life is a series of choices and you are in the drivers seat (not someone else). You Inc. is the most important business you will run because it’s your life and you need to take an active role in all the decisions. It’s time for you to decide what commitments get added to your plate and when to say “NO” vs “YES.”
2. Assess Your Words
Yes, we’ve all heard that being “positive” is important and makes a difference — so why aren’t we doing it all the time? I continue to see people limiting their potential because they embrace negative words and beliefs. Our mindset defines what we believe is possible and impossible. So if we continue to reinforce that starting a new business, running a 10k race, or finding a job is impossible then that’s the song that runs through our mind. I encourage all of my clients to delete the words, “can’t” and “impossible” from their vocabulary and use words that inspire, empower, and motivate you such as I can, I will, and I believe in myself.
3. Remove The Should Factor
I should spend more time with my family, I should volunteer at my children’s school, I should attend that social event….the “shoulds” go on and on. But what we really need to focus on is what we want to do and be rather than what we think we should be doing? The most precious resources we have are time and energy so if you are consumed with thinking and doing all the “shoulds” in your life, there’s little time to focus on the parts of your life that are most fulfilling. You can implement this small shift by starting to notice when and if you use the word “should” and if it positively or negatively impacts your life.
4. Redefine Success
Often our definition of success changes over the years but we do not adjust our mindset, goals, and actions for the life we want to live today. After business school, I defined success in terms of title and money but soon realized that success for me was about being fulfilled, making a difference, and loving what I do.How do you define successin your life and are you taking steps to create the life you want?
5.Set a Goal That Matters
This seems like an obvious one but so many people either do not set goals, set vague goals, do not take action on their goals or set goals that are important but not a priority. The amazing part about goals is when you set a goal that genuinely excites you and is a top priority in your life, you are focused and motivated on a daily basis. It adds that spark to your life and gives you a purpose when you start your day.
The process of setting goals is about feeling a sense of mastery and building confidenceeach step of the way. To start, focus on goals that are meaningful, genuinely excite you, and that you are willing to make a priority today. Goals are personal so choose one that speaks to you and then write it down. Remember it’s a process so be patient and ready for some bumps on the road!
Top 1% Bottom Line:Living your best life is a mindset, choice, and way of life. Once we decide that being our best is not optional but rather how we live, a world of opportunities open up and challenges are re-framed. We see the world through the lens of what if and why not and train our mind to focus on solutions rather than problems. The choice is yours!
The question we need to explore is not what we know but what we embrace and practice in our life on a daily basis. Most of my clients and people I talk with know what they are supposed to do but doing it is always the issue. Given that we are mid-way through the year, it’s the perfect reflection point to take note of what’s working in your life and what small changes you can implement that will make a positive impact. The consistent small actions add up and often lead to amazing results by year-end.
Here are five powerful yet simple ways to make a meaningful difference in your life on a daily basis:
1. Be The CEO of You Inc.
You Inc. represents all the different areas of your life including Career, Relationships, Finances, Healthy Living, Fun & Creativity, and Personal Growth. You need to invest in and be mindful of each of the areas to present your best self on a daily basis. The key theme to realize is that life is a series of choices and you are in the drivers seat (not someone else). You Inc. is the most important business you will run because it’s your life and you need to take an active role in all the decisions. It’s time for you to decide what commitments get added to your plate and when to say “NO” vs “YES.”
2. Assess Your Words
Yes, we’ve all heard that being “positive” is important and makes a difference — so why aren’t we doing it all the time? I continue to see people limiting their potential because they embrace negative words and beliefs. Our mindset defines what we believe is possible and impossible. So if we continue to reinforce that starting a new business, running a 10k race, or finding a job is impossible then that’s the song that runs through our mind. I encourage all of my clients to delete the words, “can’t” and “impossible” from their vocabulary and use words that inspire, empower, and motivate you such as I can, I will, and I believe in myself.
3. Remove The Should Factor
I should spend more time with my family, I should volunteer at my children’s school, I should attend that social event….the “shoulds” go on and on. But what we really need to focus on is what we want to do and be rather than what we think we should be doing? The most precious resources we have are time and energy so if you are consumed with thinking and doing all the “shoulds” in your life, there’s little time to focus on the parts of your life that are most fulfilling. You can implement this small shift by starting to notice when and if you use the word “should” and if it positively or negatively impacts your life.
4. Redefine Success
Often our definition of success changes over the years but we do not adjust our mindset, goals, and actions for the life we want to live today. After business school, I defined success in terms of title and money but soon realized that success for me was about being fulfilled, making a difference, and loving what I do.How do you define successin your life and are you taking steps to create the life you want?
5.Set a Goal That Matters
This seems like an obvious one but so many people either do not set goals, set vague goals, do not take action on their goals or set goals that are important but not a priority. The amazing part about goals is when you set a goal that genuinely excites you and is a top priority in your life, you are focused and motivated on a daily basis. It adds that spark to your life and gives you a purpose when you start your day.
The process of setting goals is about feeling a sense of mastery and building confidenceeach step of the way. To start, focus on goals that are meaningful, genuinely excite you, and that you are willing to make a priority today. Goals are personal so choose one that speaks to you and then write it down. Remember it’s a process so be patient and ready for some bumps on the road!
Top 1% Bottom Line:Living your best life is a mindset, choice, and way of life. Once we decide that being our best is not optional but rather how we live, a world of opportunities open up and challenges are re-framed. We see the world through the lens of what if and why not and train our mind to focus on solutions rather than problems. The choice is yours!
Thursday, December 26, 2013
10 Secrets for Instant Self-Confidence. second release
10 Secrets for Instant Self-Confidence. second release
6. Pray or meditate briefly
If you believe in a higher power, whether God, or another spiritual force, it can be a real boost to self-confidence to say a silent prayer. (You could also meditate instead of praying.) This helps you to take a step back from your immediate situation, to see the wider picture and to seek help from something or someone greater than yourself. This is a Christian prayer, but you could write something similar that fits your own religious beliefs or spiritual tradition:
Dear God, thank you that you love and accept me as I am … please help me to do the same … and help me to grow to become the person you want me to be so that my God-confidence and self-confidence will increase greatly—all for the glory of your name and not mine. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Amen.
( Daily Encounter, Strengthen Your Self-Confidence, Acts International)
7. Reframe
If something unexpected happens, it’s easy to let it knock your fledgling self-confidence. Perhaps you spill your drink on someone, you arrive late for the big meeting because of traffic problems, or someone who you wanted to speak to gives you a cold brush-off. Try to “reframe” the situation; put it in the best possible light: often, events are only negative because of the meaning we attach to them.
(Tim Brownson, A Daring Adventure)
8. Find the next step
Keep your self-confidence up by taking gradual steps forwards, rather than freezing when faced with what seems like a giant leap. If you’re not sure what to do, look for one simple step that you can take to make progress. That might mean making eye contact at a party, introducing yourself to a stranger, breaking the ice in a meeting, or asking a question of your interviewers that shows your knowledge of their industry and company.
Start taking action even if you don’t have a clear idea of what needs to be done. Start moving towards your goal. Make corrections later.
( 6 Keys to Develop the Action Habit, Illuminated Mind)
9. Speak slowly
An easy tip for both seeming and being more self-confidence is to speak slowly. If you gabble, you’ll end up feeling worse as you know you’re being unclear to your audience or to the person you’re in a conversation with. Speaking slowly gives you the chance to think about what you’re going to say next. If you’re giving a talk or presentation, pause at the end of phrases and sentences to help your audience take in what you’ve said.
A person in authority, with authority, speaks slowly. It shows confidence. A person who feels that he isn’t worth listening to will speak quickly, because he doesn’t want to keep others waiting on something not worthy of listening to.
( 25 Killer Actions to Boost Self-Confidence, Zen Habits)
10. Contribute something
Have you ever sat through an entire class at college or meeting at work without saying a word? Have you had an evening out where friends chatted happily while you sat and stared silently at your drink? Chances are, you weren’t feeling very self-confident at the time – and you probably felt even worse afterwards. Whatever the situation you’re in, make an effort to contribute. Even if you don’t think you have much to say, your thoughts and perspective are valuable to those around you.
By making an effort to speak up at least once in every group discussion, you’ll become a better public speaker, more confident in your own thoughts, and recognized as a leader by your peers.
( 10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence, Pick the Brain)
Do you find yourself lacking inself-confidenceat times? How do you cope with these situations? Share your tips in the comments…
6. Pray or meditate briefly
If you believe in a higher power, whether God, or another spiritual force, it can be a real boost to self-confidence to say a silent prayer. (You could also meditate instead of praying.) This helps you to take a step back from your immediate situation, to see the wider picture and to seek help from something or someone greater than yourself. This is a Christian prayer, but you could write something similar that fits your own religious beliefs or spiritual tradition:
Dear God, thank you that you love and accept me as I am … please help me to do the same … and help me to grow to become the person you want me to be so that my God-confidence and self-confidence will increase greatly—all for the glory of your name and not mine. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Amen.
( Daily Encounter, Strengthen Your Self-Confidence, Acts International)
7. Reframe
If something unexpected happens, it’s easy to let it knock your fledgling self-confidence. Perhaps you spill your drink on someone, you arrive late for the big meeting because of traffic problems, or someone who you wanted to speak to gives you a cold brush-off. Try to “reframe” the situation; put it in the best possible light: often, events are only negative because of the meaning we attach to them.
(Tim Brownson, A Daring Adventure)
8. Find the next step
Keep your self-confidence up by taking gradual steps forwards, rather than freezing when faced with what seems like a giant leap. If you’re not sure what to do, look for one simple step that you can take to make progress. That might mean making eye contact at a party, introducing yourself to a stranger, breaking the ice in a meeting, or asking a question of your interviewers that shows your knowledge of their industry and company.
Start taking action even if you don’t have a clear idea of what needs to be done. Start moving towards your goal. Make corrections later.
( 6 Keys to Develop the Action Habit, Illuminated Mind)
9. Speak slowly
An easy tip for both seeming and being more self-confidence is to speak slowly. If you gabble, you’ll end up feeling worse as you know you’re being unclear to your audience or to the person you’re in a conversation with. Speaking slowly gives you the chance to think about what you’re going to say next. If you’re giving a talk or presentation, pause at the end of phrases and sentences to help your audience take in what you’ve said.
A person in authority, with authority, speaks slowly. It shows confidence. A person who feels that he isn’t worth listening to will speak quickly, because he doesn’t want to keep others waiting on something not worthy of listening to.
( 25 Killer Actions to Boost Self-Confidence, Zen Habits)
10. Contribute something
Have you ever sat through an entire class at college or meeting at work without saying a word? Have you had an evening out where friends chatted happily while you sat and stared silently at your drink? Chances are, you weren’t feeling very self-confident at the time – and you probably felt even worse afterwards. Whatever the situation you’re in, make an effort to contribute. Even if you don’t think you have much to say, your thoughts and perspective are valuable to those around you.
By making an effort to speak up at least once in every group discussion, you’ll become a better public speaker, more confident in your own thoughts, and recognized as a leader by your peers.
( 10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence, Pick the Brain)
Do you find yourself lacking inself-confidenceat times? How do you cope with these situations? Share your tips in the comments…
10 Secrets for Instant Self-Confidence.
There are lots of ways to improve your self-confidence over the long-term – but sometimes you need an instant boost. You can’t walk into an important work meeting, (or a class at college or a room full of strangers at a party) whilst frantically re-reading a self-help manual, or making a last-minute phone call to your life-coach. So here are ten secrets to boosting your self-confidence in just a few seconds…
10 Secrets for Instant Self-Confidence
1. Smile
The one-second tip for when you’re feeling nervous and unconfident is simply to smile! You don’t just smile because youarehappy and confident – you can smile tomakeyourself feel better. The act of smiling is so strongly associated with positive feelings that it’s almost impossible to feel bad while smiling.
Smiling is much more then just a facial expression. The simple act of smiling releases feel-good endorphins, improves circulation to the face, makes you feel good about yourself in general and can definitely increase your self confidence. … you will also appear more confident to others while you’re smiling.
( 5 Easy and Effective Ways to Improve Your Self-Confidence, LovnLivin.com)
2. Make eye contact
As well as smiling, meet the eyes of other people in the room. Give them your smile; you’ll almost certainly get one back, and being smiled at is a great self-confidence boost. Like smiling, eye contact shows people that you’re confident. Staring at your shoes or at the table reinforces your feelings of self-doubt and shyness.
This tip is particularly useful for work-related situations – make eye contact with interviewers, or with the audience for your presentation:
Eye contact helps take the fear away from the speaker by getting the audience closer to him. Stress is mainly a result of being with the unknown and uncontrollable. Eye contact gives the speaker a picture of the reality that is the audience. It also helps in getting the attention of the audience.
( Confident Eye Contact, Unlimited Confidence)
3. Change your inner voice
Most of us have a critical inner voice that tells us we’re stupid, not good enough, that we’re too fat, thin, loud, quiet… Being able to change that inner voice is key to feeling self-confident on the inside, which will help you project your confidence to the world. Make your inner voice a supportive friend who knows you fully but also recognizes your talents and gifts, and wants you to make the best of yourself.
You still want to be able to hear the message, so don’t make it so chilled and laid back that you never take any notice of it. You can even choose 2, 3 or as many voices as you want for different occasions. Your voice should always support you, always be helpful, never aggressive and it never puts you down.
( Shut the Duck Up, Pick the Brain)
4. Forget other people’s standards
Whatever the situation that’s causing you a crisis of self-confidence, you can help yourself immeasurably byholding yourself to your own standards alone. Other people have different values from you, and however hard you try, you’ll never please everyone all of the time. Don’t worry that people will think you’re too overweight, underweight, too feckless, too boring, too frugal, too frivolous … hold yourself to your standards, not some imagined standards belonging to others. And remember that commonly-held values and standards vary from society to society: you don’t have to accept them just because the people around you do.
People’s values define what they want personally, but morals define what the society around those people want for them. Certain behaviors are considered to be desirable by a given society, while others are considered to be undesirable. For the most part, however, morals are not written in stone, or proclaimed by God above, but instead reflect local sensibilities. Different societies have different ideas about what is acceptable and not acceptable.
( Values and Morals Clarification, Me ntalHealth.net)
5. Make the most of your appearance
Even if you’ve only got a minute or two, duck into the bathroom to make sure you’re looking your best. Brushing your hair, giving your face a good wash, retouching your makeup, straightening your collar, checking you’ve not got a bit of parsley stuck between your teeth … all of these can make the difference between feeling confident in your physical appearance and feeling anxiousabout an imagined flaw.
Perfect your physical appearance: There’s no denying that one’s grooming plays a crucial role in building confidence. Although we know what’s on the inside is what truly counts, your physical appearance will be the first to create an impression.
( Building Blocks to Self-Confidence, Complete Wellbeing).
10 Secrets for Instant Self-Confidence
1. Smile
The one-second tip for when you’re feeling nervous and unconfident is simply to smile! You don’t just smile because youarehappy and confident – you can smile tomakeyourself feel better. The act of smiling is so strongly associated with positive feelings that it’s almost impossible to feel bad while smiling.
Smiling is much more then just a facial expression. The simple act of smiling releases feel-good endorphins, improves circulation to the face, makes you feel good about yourself in general and can definitely increase your self confidence. … you will also appear more confident to others while you’re smiling.
( 5 Easy and Effective Ways to Improve Your Self-Confidence, LovnLivin.com)
2. Make eye contact
As well as smiling, meet the eyes of other people in the room. Give them your smile; you’ll almost certainly get one back, and being smiled at is a great self-confidence boost. Like smiling, eye contact shows people that you’re confident. Staring at your shoes or at the table reinforces your feelings of self-doubt and shyness.
This tip is particularly useful for work-related situations – make eye contact with interviewers, or with the audience for your presentation:
Eye contact helps take the fear away from the speaker by getting the audience closer to him. Stress is mainly a result of being with the unknown and uncontrollable. Eye contact gives the speaker a picture of the reality that is the audience. It also helps in getting the attention of the audience.
( Confident Eye Contact, Unlimited Confidence)
3. Change your inner voice
Most of us have a critical inner voice that tells us we’re stupid, not good enough, that we’re too fat, thin, loud, quiet… Being able to change that inner voice is key to feeling self-confident on the inside, which will help you project your confidence to the world. Make your inner voice a supportive friend who knows you fully but also recognizes your talents and gifts, and wants you to make the best of yourself.
You still want to be able to hear the message, so don’t make it so chilled and laid back that you never take any notice of it. You can even choose 2, 3 or as many voices as you want for different occasions. Your voice should always support you, always be helpful, never aggressive and it never puts you down.
( Shut the Duck Up, Pick the Brain)
4. Forget other people’s standards
Whatever the situation that’s causing you a crisis of self-confidence, you can help yourself immeasurably byholding yourself to your own standards alone. Other people have different values from you, and however hard you try, you’ll never please everyone all of the time. Don’t worry that people will think you’re too overweight, underweight, too feckless, too boring, too frugal, too frivolous … hold yourself to your standards, not some imagined standards belonging to others. And remember that commonly-held values and standards vary from society to society: you don’t have to accept them just because the people around you do.
People’s values define what they want personally, but morals define what the society around those people want for them. Certain behaviors are considered to be desirable by a given society, while others are considered to be undesirable. For the most part, however, morals are not written in stone, or proclaimed by God above, but instead reflect local sensibilities. Different societies have different ideas about what is acceptable and not acceptable.
( Values and Morals Clarification, Me ntalHealth.net)
5. Make the most of your appearance
Even if you’ve only got a minute or two, duck into the bathroom to make sure you’re looking your best. Brushing your hair, giving your face a good wash, retouching your makeup, straightening your collar, checking you’ve not got a bit of parsley stuck between your teeth … all of these can make the difference between feeling confident in your physical appearance and feeling anxiousabout an imagined flaw.
Perfect your physical appearance: There’s no denying that one’s grooming plays a crucial role in building confidence. Although we know what’s on the inside is what truly counts, your physical appearance will be the first to create an impression.
( Building Blocks to Self-Confidence, Complete Wellbeing).
10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence.. second release
10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence.
7. Sit in the front row
In schools, offices, and public assemblies around the world, people constantly strive to sit at the back of the room. Most people prefer the back because they’re afraid of being noticed. This reflects a lack of self confidence. By deciding to sit in the front row, you can get over this irrational fear and build your self confidence. You’ll also be more visible to the important people talking from the front of the room.
8. Speak up
During group discussions many people never speak up because they’re afraid that people will judge them for saying something stupid. This fear isn’t really justified. Generally, people are much more accepting than we imagine. In fact most people are dealing with the exact same fears. By making an effort to speak up at least once in every group discussion, you’ll become a better public speaker, more confident in your own thoughts, and recognized as a leader by your peers.
9. Work out
Along the same lines as personal appearance, physical fitness has a huge effect on self confidence. If you’re out of shape, you’ll feel insecure, unattractive, and less energetic. By working out, you improve your physcial appearance, energize yourself, and accomplish something positive. Having the discipline to work out not only makes you feel better, it creates positive momentum that you can build on the rest of the day.
10. Focus on contribution
Too often we get caught up in our own desires. We focus too much on ourselves and not enough on the needs of other people. If you stop thinking about yourself and concentrate on the contribution you’re making to the rest of the world, you won’t worry as much about you own flaws. This will increase self confidence and allow you to contribute with maximum efficiency. The more you contribute to the world the more you’ll be rewarded with personal success and recognition.
7. Sit in the front row
In schools, offices, and public assemblies around the world, people constantly strive to sit at the back of the room. Most people prefer the back because they’re afraid of being noticed. This reflects a lack of self confidence. By deciding to sit in the front row, you can get over this irrational fear and build your self confidence. You’ll also be more visible to the important people talking from the front of the room.
8. Speak up
During group discussions many people never speak up because they’re afraid that people will judge them for saying something stupid. This fear isn’t really justified. Generally, people are much more accepting than we imagine. In fact most people are dealing with the exact same fears. By making an effort to speak up at least once in every group discussion, you’ll become a better public speaker, more confident in your own thoughts, and recognized as a leader by your peers.
9. Work out
Along the same lines as personal appearance, physical fitness has a huge effect on self confidence. If you’re out of shape, you’ll feel insecure, unattractive, and less energetic. By working out, you improve your physcial appearance, energize yourself, and accomplish something positive. Having the discipline to work out not only makes you feel better, it creates positive momentum that you can build on the rest of the day.
10. Focus on contribution
Too often we get caught up in our own desires. We focus too much on ourselves and not enough on the needs of other people. If you stop thinking about yourself and concentrate on the contribution you’re making to the rest of the world, you won’t worry as much about you own flaws. This will increase self confidence and allow you to contribute with maximum efficiency. The more you contribute to the world the more you’ll be rewarded with personal success and recognition.
10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence.
10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence.
Self confidence is the difference between feeling unstoppable and feeling scared out of your wits. Your perception of yourself has an enormous impact on how others perceive you. Perception is reality — the more self confidence you have, the more likely it is you’ll succeed.
Although many of the factors affecting self confidence are beyond your control, there are a number of things you can consciously do to build self confidence. By using these 10 strategies you can get the mental edge you need to reach your potential.
Build Self Confidence
1. Dress Sharp
Although clothes don’t make the man, they certainly affect the way he feels about himself. No one is more conscious of your physical appearance than you are. When you don’t look good, it changes the way you carry yourself and interact with other people. Use this to your advantage by taking care of your personal appearance. In most cases, significant improvements can be made by bathing and shaving frequently, wearing clean clothes, and being cognizant of the latest styles.
This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot on clothes. One great rule to follow is “spend twice as much, buy half as much”. Rather than buying a bunch of cheap clothes, buy half as many select, high quality items. In long run this decreases spending because expensive clothes wear out less easily and stay in style longer than cheap clothes. Buying less also helps reduce the clutter in your closet.
2. Walk Faster
One of the easiest ways to tell how a person feels about herself is to examine her walk. Is it slow? tired? painful? Or is it energetic and purposeful? People with confidence walk quickly. They have places to go, people to see, and important work to do. Even if you aren’t in a hurry, you can increase your self confidence by putting some pep in your step. Walking 25% faster will make to you look and feel more important.
3. Good Posture
Similarly, the way a person carries herself tells a story. People with slumped shoulders and lethargic movements display a lack of self confidence. They aren’t enthusiastic about what they’re doing and they don’t consider themselves important. By practicing good posture, you’ll automatically feel more confident. Stand up straight, keep your head up, and make eye contact. You’ll make a positive impression on others and instantly feel more alert and empowered.
4. Personal Commercial
One of the best ways to build confidence is listening to a motivational speech. Unfortunately, opportunities to listen to a great speaker are few and far between. You can fill this need by creating a personal commercial. Write a 30-60 second speech that highlights your strengths and goals. Then recite it in front of the mirror aloud (or inside your head if you prefer) whenever you need a confidence boost.
5. Gratitude
When you focus too much on what you want, the mind creates reasons why you can’t have it. This leads you to dwell on your weaknesses. The best way to avoid this is consciously focusing on gratitude. Set aside time each day to mentally list everything you have to be grateful for. Recall your past successes, unique skills, loving relationships, and positive momentum. You’ll be amazed how much you have going for you and motivated to take that next step towards success.
6. Compliment other people
When we think negatively about ourselves, we often project that feeling on to others in the form of insults and gossip. To break this cycle of negativity, get in the habit of praising other people. Refuse to engage in backstabbing gossip and make an effort to compliment those around you. In the process, you’ll become well liked and build self confidence. By looking for the best in others, you indirectly bring out the best in yourself.
Self confidence is the difference between feeling unstoppable and feeling scared out of your wits. Your perception of yourself has an enormous impact on how others perceive you. Perception is reality — the more self confidence you have, the more likely it is you’ll succeed.
Although many of the factors affecting self confidence are beyond your control, there are a number of things you can consciously do to build self confidence. By using these 10 strategies you can get the mental edge you need to reach your potential.
Build Self Confidence
1. Dress Sharp
Although clothes don’t make the man, they certainly affect the way he feels about himself. No one is more conscious of your physical appearance than you are. When you don’t look good, it changes the way you carry yourself and interact with other people. Use this to your advantage by taking care of your personal appearance. In most cases, significant improvements can be made by bathing and shaving frequently, wearing clean clothes, and being cognizant of the latest styles.
This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot on clothes. One great rule to follow is “spend twice as much, buy half as much”. Rather than buying a bunch of cheap clothes, buy half as many select, high quality items. In long run this decreases spending because expensive clothes wear out less easily and stay in style longer than cheap clothes. Buying less also helps reduce the clutter in your closet.
2. Walk Faster
One of the easiest ways to tell how a person feels about herself is to examine her walk. Is it slow? tired? painful? Or is it energetic and purposeful? People with confidence walk quickly. They have places to go, people to see, and important work to do. Even if you aren’t in a hurry, you can increase your self confidence by putting some pep in your step. Walking 25% faster will make to you look and feel more important.
3. Good Posture
Similarly, the way a person carries herself tells a story. People with slumped shoulders and lethargic movements display a lack of self confidence. They aren’t enthusiastic about what they’re doing and they don’t consider themselves important. By practicing good posture, you’ll automatically feel more confident. Stand up straight, keep your head up, and make eye contact. You’ll make a positive impression on others and instantly feel more alert and empowered.
4. Personal Commercial
One of the best ways to build confidence is listening to a motivational speech. Unfortunately, opportunities to listen to a great speaker are few and far between. You can fill this need by creating a personal commercial. Write a 30-60 second speech that highlights your strengths and goals. Then recite it in front of the mirror aloud (or inside your head if you prefer) whenever you need a confidence boost.
5. Gratitude
When you focus too much on what you want, the mind creates reasons why you can’t have it. This leads you to dwell on your weaknesses. The best way to avoid this is consciously focusing on gratitude. Set aside time each day to mentally list everything you have to be grateful for. Recall your past successes, unique skills, loving relationships, and positive momentum. You’ll be amazed how much you have going for you and motivated to take that next step towards success.
6. Compliment other people
When we think negatively about ourselves, we often project that feeling on to others in the form of insults and gossip. To break this cycle of negativity, get in the habit of praising other people. Refuse to engage in backstabbing gossip and make an effort to compliment those around you. In the process, you’ll become well liked and build self confidence. By looking for the best in others, you indirectly bring out the best in yourself.
10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence.
10 Ways to Instantly Build Self Confidence.
Self confidence is the difference between feeling unstoppable and feeling scared out of your wits. Your perception of yourself has an enormous impact on how others perceive you. Perception is reality — the more self confidence you have, the more likely it is you’ll succeed.
Although many of the factors affecting self confidence are beyond your control, there are a number of things you can consciously do to build self confidence. By using these 10 strategies you can get the mental edge you need to reach your potential.
Build Self Confidence
1. Dress Sharp
Although clothes don’t make the man, they certainly affect the way he feels about himself. No one is more conscious of your physical appearance than you are. When you don’t look good, it changes the way you carry yourself and interact with other people. Use this to your advantage by taking care of your personal appearance. In most cases, significant improvements can be made by bathing and shaving frequently, wearing clean clothes, and being cognizant of the latest styles.
This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot on clothes. One great rule to follow is “spend twice as much, buy half as much”. Rather than buying a bunch of cheap clothes, buy half as many select, high quality items. In long run this decreases spending because expensive clothes wear out less easily and stay in style longer than cheap clothes. Buying less also helps reduce the clutter in your closet.
2. Walk Faster
One of the easiest ways to tell how a person feels about herself is to examine her walk. Is it slow? tired? painful? Or is it energetic and purposeful? People with confidence walk quickly. They have places to go, people to see, and important work to do. Even if you aren’t in a hurry, you can increase your self confidence by putting some pep in your step. Walking 25% faster will make to you look and feel more important.
3. Good Posture
Similarly, the way a person carries herself tells a story. People with slumped shoulders and lethargic movements display a lack of self confidence. They aren’t enthusiastic about what they’re doing and they don’t consider themselves important. By practicing good posture, you’ll automatically feel more confident. Stand up straight, keep your head up, and make eye contact. You’ll make a positive impression on others and instantly feel more alert and empowered.
4. Personal Commercial
One of the best ways to build confidence is listening to a motivational speech. Unfortunately, opportunities to listen to a great speaker are few and far between. You can fill this need by creating a personal commercial. Write a 30-60 second speech that highlights your strengths and goals. Then recite it in front of the mirror aloud (or inside your head if you prefer) whenever you need a confidence boost.
5. Gratitude
When you focus too much on what you want, the mind creates reasons why you can’t have it. This leads you to dwell on your weaknesses. The best way to avoid this is consciously focusing on gratitude. Set aside time each day to mentally list everything you have to be grateful for. Recall your past successes, unique skills, loving relationships, and positive momentum. You’ll be amazed how much you have going for you and motivated to take that next step towards success.
6. Compliment other people
When we think negatively about ourselves, we often project that feeling on to others in the form of insults and gossip. To break this cycle of negativity, get in the habit of praising other people. Refuse to engage in backstabbing gossip and make an effort to compliment those around you. In the process, you’ll become well liked and build self confidence. By looking for the best in others, you indirectly bring out the best in yourself.
Self confidence is the difference between feeling unstoppable and feeling scared out of your wits. Your perception of yourself has an enormous impact on how others perceive you. Perception is reality — the more self confidence you have, the more likely it is you’ll succeed.
Although many of the factors affecting self confidence are beyond your control, there are a number of things you can consciously do to build self confidence. By using these 10 strategies you can get the mental edge you need to reach your potential.
Build Self Confidence
1. Dress Sharp
Although clothes don’t make the man, they certainly affect the way he feels about himself. No one is more conscious of your physical appearance than you are. When you don’t look good, it changes the way you carry yourself and interact with other people. Use this to your advantage by taking care of your personal appearance. In most cases, significant improvements can be made by bathing and shaving frequently, wearing clean clothes, and being cognizant of the latest styles.
This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot on clothes. One great rule to follow is “spend twice as much, buy half as much”. Rather than buying a bunch of cheap clothes, buy half as many select, high quality items. In long run this decreases spending because expensive clothes wear out less easily and stay in style longer than cheap clothes. Buying less also helps reduce the clutter in your closet.
2. Walk Faster
One of the easiest ways to tell how a person feels about herself is to examine her walk. Is it slow? tired? painful? Or is it energetic and purposeful? People with confidence walk quickly. They have places to go, people to see, and important work to do. Even if you aren’t in a hurry, you can increase your self confidence by putting some pep in your step. Walking 25% faster will make to you look and feel more important.
3. Good Posture
Similarly, the way a person carries herself tells a story. People with slumped shoulders and lethargic movements display a lack of self confidence. They aren’t enthusiastic about what they’re doing and they don’t consider themselves important. By practicing good posture, you’ll automatically feel more confident. Stand up straight, keep your head up, and make eye contact. You’ll make a positive impression on others and instantly feel more alert and empowered.
4. Personal Commercial
One of the best ways to build confidence is listening to a motivational speech. Unfortunately, opportunities to listen to a great speaker are few and far between. You can fill this need by creating a personal commercial. Write a 30-60 second speech that highlights your strengths and goals. Then recite it in front of the mirror aloud (or inside your head if you prefer) whenever you need a confidence boost.
5. Gratitude
When you focus too much on what you want, the mind creates reasons why you can’t have it. This leads you to dwell on your weaknesses. The best way to avoid this is consciously focusing on gratitude. Set aside time each day to mentally list everything you have to be grateful for. Recall your past successes, unique skills, loving relationships, and positive momentum. You’ll be amazed how much you have going for you and motivated to take that next step towards success.
6. Compliment other people
When we think negatively about ourselves, we often project that feeling on to others in the form of insults and gossip. To break this cycle of negativity, get in the habit of praising other people. Refuse to engage in backstabbing gossip and make an effort to compliment those around you. In the process, you’ll become well liked and build self confidence. By looking for the best in others, you indirectly bring out the best in yourself.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
How To: Improve Your Memory,second release.
How To: Improve Your Memory.
Correlate namesThere are few things as nerve-racking as meeting someone you already know but forgetting their name. You can resolve the situation by associating them to someone they look like or to a word linked to one of their character traits. Play with their name (Big Bad Billy, Kooky Kathy) and have a visual image of them in your mind.
Make a concept mapMake a visual painting of what you're trying to remember. Structure a topic in your mind so that you can see everything clearly. Then, when there's something you're forgetting, visualize this shape and your brain will allow you to recover the data. In addition, ensure that you comprehend the nitty-gritty of a topic before trying to commit it to memory-interconnected specifics.
all-purpose guidelinesThe following tips will ensure that your memory is sharper than ever.
Enjoy the informationWe always remember the things in which we are interested. If you despise mathematics, you'll have a very hard time remembering complicated theorems. But if you read up on the topic and discover the plight of the scientists who developed them, you will be directly involved and remembering them will be almost effortless. The same goes for everything. There's a reason why the phone number of your favorite pizza place is easier to recall than that of your dentist's office.
Take your timeMemory isn't instantaneous; you have to give yourself enough time to absorb information. Some things can be remembered more quickly than others, of course, but don't berate yourself for not being fast enough. When you are trying to remember something, keep your energy level high and concentrate effectively.
RelaxPressure works for some people, but most of us function better when we're not afflicted with anxiety. Take deep breaths; tell yourself that you have all the time in the world and that not remembering something is fine. Relaxing will serve to enhance your awareness and your ability to remember.
Be selectiveThere's no way anyone can remember everything in life. You must be choosy; select what you want to commit to memory and allow your mind to forget the rest. Your brain is like a file cabinet, so throw away what you don't need and make room for the important stuff.
Keep your mind activeApathy may be fine on a Sunday morning, but it shouldn't be a way of life. The more you keep your psyche dynamic, the better it will operate. This is even more important as you get older. Do crossword puzzles, learn a new word every dayand read constantly. Be relentless in exercising your wits.
Care for your healthThe brain is intimately linked to the body. Exercise every day, vie for first-class blood flow and stimulate your lungs. Eat properlyto give your system the right nutrients and vitamins. Heavy use of alcohol and drugs can deteriorate your memory. Furthermore, consuming ginkgo biloba, lecithin and phosphatidylserine can improve your memory.
super memoryIn essence, all these tips are about focusing and paying attention to things. Care about what you want to remember and put some genuine effort into it. The more you practice your newfound skills and keep your mind active, the more your memory will improve.
It's worth doing since everyone thinks highly of people with good memories. It could seriously help you at work and in your personal life.
Resources:
www.mamashealth.com
www.thinkactive.co.uk
www.mindtools.com
Correlate namesThere are few things as nerve-racking as meeting someone you already know but forgetting their name. You can resolve the situation by associating them to someone they look like or to a word linked to one of their character traits. Play with their name (Big Bad Billy, Kooky Kathy) and have a visual image of them in your mind.
Make a concept mapMake a visual painting of what you're trying to remember. Structure a topic in your mind so that you can see everything clearly. Then, when there's something you're forgetting, visualize this shape and your brain will allow you to recover the data. In addition, ensure that you comprehend the nitty-gritty of a topic before trying to commit it to memory-interconnected specifics.
all-purpose guidelinesThe following tips will ensure that your memory is sharper than ever.
Enjoy the informationWe always remember the things in which we are interested. If you despise mathematics, you'll have a very hard time remembering complicated theorems. But if you read up on the topic and discover the plight of the scientists who developed them, you will be directly involved and remembering them will be almost effortless. The same goes for everything. There's a reason why the phone number of your favorite pizza place is easier to recall than that of your dentist's office.
Take your timeMemory isn't instantaneous; you have to give yourself enough time to absorb information. Some things can be remembered more quickly than others, of course, but don't berate yourself for not being fast enough. When you are trying to remember something, keep your energy level high and concentrate effectively.
RelaxPressure works for some people, but most of us function better when we're not afflicted with anxiety. Take deep breaths; tell yourself that you have all the time in the world and that not remembering something is fine. Relaxing will serve to enhance your awareness and your ability to remember.
Be selectiveThere's no way anyone can remember everything in life. You must be choosy; select what you want to commit to memory and allow your mind to forget the rest. Your brain is like a file cabinet, so throw away what you don't need and make room for the important stuff.
Keep your mind activeApathy may be fine on a Sunday morning, but it shouldn't be a way of life. The more you keep your psyche dynamic, the better it will operate. This is even more important as you get older. Do crossword puzzles, learn a new word every dayand read constantly. Be relentless in exercising your wits.
Care for your healthThe brain is intimately linked to the body. Exercise every day, vie for first-class blood flow and stimulate your lungs. Eat properlyto give your system the right nutrients and vitamins. Heavy use of alcohol and drugs can deteriorate your memory. Furthermore, consuming ginkgo biloba, lecithin and phosphatidylserine can improve your memory.
super memoryIn essence, all these tips are about focusing and paying attention to things. Care about what you want to remember and put some genuine effort into it. The more you practice your newfound skills and keep your mind active, the more your memory will improve.
It's worth doing since everyone thinks highly of people with good memories. It could seriously help you at work and in your personal life.
Resources:
www.mamashealth.com
www.thinkactive.co.uk
www.mindtools.com
How To: Improve Your Memory.
How To: Improve Your Memory.
Are you the type who always forgets stuff? Can you remember the chemical formulas containing 1-methylethylidene? How about the date when you first had sex? Of course not. That's because memory is selective; we usually remember certain things more easily because they're important to us. But we all have the potential to remember anything we want; it's just a matter of exercising the brain adequately. Read on to learn how you can improve your memory.
the problemInstead of launching into a psychological dissertation on the intricacies of short-term memory and long-term memory, let's just agree that certain important things slip our minds.
For example, everyone — except maybe your chemistry teacher — will forgive you for not remembering the composition of certain chemical formulas. However, you could get into a heap of trouble for forgetting your girlfriend's name, especially when snuggling in bed. Here are a few things you should make an effort to remember:
*.Names
*. Phone numbers
*.Faces
*.Tasks
*.Appointments
*.Birthdays
*.Conversations
*.The truth (or lies)
For the most part, not recalling these things is a matter of not paying enough attention. As my girlfriend always says, "If you really cared, you wouldn't forget." Put some effort into it next time and see how much more you can remember. Also, determine whether you have an audio memory or a visual memory. Once you resolve this question, you'll be in a better position to learn how to improve it.
the solutionHere are some concrete tips you can follow to develop your ability to remember pertinent information.
Be activeThis applies to everything, whether you're listening, thinking or reading. Make an effort to take notes or acknowledge that you've heard what the other person has told you. When we're passive, our minds drift away. If you work hard at being active, your brain will register what is being said and you'll remember it more easily.
FocusStart paying attention to detail. We hear an overwhelming quantity of information each day, but we only remember what is important to us. Broaden what you deem significant and you will remember more. A good trick is to imagine that everything is vital. Pretend you're a crime scene investigator or a secret agent and that every aspect of what's going on around you is vital to national security.
Make associationsEstablish links between what you're trying to recollect and things you already know. It can be a color, a number or a rhyme. To remember a list of things, picture images that rhyme with numbers. For example,onerhymes withsun; visually associatesunwith the first item of your list. Then, do the same withtwo, which rhymes withclue, etc. You can also use acronyms and combinations of names — or make sentences using the first letter of every word — as mnemonic tools.
RepeatWhat was your schoolteacher's favorite punitive method? Whenever someone was disorderly, she'd make them copy whatever they weren't supposed to do over and over again on the blackboard. Repetition helps us remember; it forcefully imprints an idea in our minds. Each time you meet someone, repeat their name right away. When someone gives you their phone number, write it down and repeat it out loud. Also, when there's something you really want to remember, don't be afraid to write it down several times on a piece of paper.
Make rhymes, draw a map and change your lifestyle...!
Are you the type who always forgets stuff? Can you remember the chemical formulas containing 1-methylethylidene? How about the date when you first had sex? Of course not. That's because memory is selective; we usually remember certain things more easily because they're important to us. But we all have the potential to remember anything we want; it's just a matter of exercising the brain adequately. Read on to learn how you can improve your memory.
the problemInstead of launching into a psychological dissertation on the intricacies of short-term memory and long-term memory, let's just agree that certain important things slip our minds.
For example, everyone — except maybe your chemistry teacher — will forgive you for not remembering the composition of certain chemical formulas. However, you could get into a heap of trouble for forgetting your girlfriend's name, especially when snuggling in bed. Here are a few things you should make an effort to remember:
*.Names
*. Phone numbers
*.Faces
*.Tasks
*.Appointments
*.Birthdays
*.Conversations
*.The truth (or lies)
For the most part, not recalling these things is a matter of not paying enough attention. As my girlfriend always says, "If you really cared, you wouldn't forget." Put some effort into it next time and see how much more you can remember. Also, determine whether you have an audio memory or a visual memory. Once you resolve this question, you'll be in a better position to learn how to improve it.
the solutionHere are some concrete tips you can follow to develop your ability to remember pertinent information.
Be activeThis applies to everything, whether you're listening, thinking or reading. Make an effort to take notes or acknowledge that you've heard what the other person has told you. When we're passive, our minds drift away. If you work hard at being active, your brain will register what is being said and you'll remember it more easily.
FocusStart paying attention to detail. We hear an overwhelming quantity of information each day, but we only remember what is important to us. Broaden what you deem significant and you will remember more. A good trick is to imagine that everything is vital. Pretend you're a crime scene investigator or a secret agent and that every aspect of what's going on around you is vital to national security.
Make associationsEstablish links between what you're trying to recollect and things you already know. It can be a color, a number or a rhyme. To remember a list of things, picture images that rhyme with numbers. For example,onerhymes withsun; visually associatesunwith the first item of your list. Then, do the same withtwo, which rhymes withclue, etc. You can also use acronyms and combinations of names — or make sentences using the first letter of every word — as mnemonic tools.
RepeatWhat was your schoolteacher's favorite punitive method? Whenever someone was disorderly, she'd make them copy whatever they weren't supposed to do over and over again on the blackboard. Repetition helps us remember; it forcefully imprints an idea in our minds. Each time you meet someone, repeat their name right away. When someone gives you their phone number, write it down and repeat it out loud. Also, when there's something you really want to remember, don't be afraid to write it down several times on a piece of paper.
Make rhymes, draw a map and change your lifestyle...!
5 Daily Brain Exercises.
Many men are devoted to exercise to bulk up their bodies, but the phrase “use it or lose it” applies to more than just the muscles in our bodies — it also applies to the neural pathways and connections in our brains. There are a variety of exercises and activities that can successfully work each of the brain’s five major cognitive functions on a daily basis. In addition to the tasks you can perform daily, you can also train your brain with HAPPYneurononline brain games and a personalized brain fitness program.
Our minds consist of five main cognitive functions:
*.memory,
*.attention,
*.language,
*.visual-spatial skills,
*.and executive function.
It’s important to challenge, stimulate and effectively exercise all five areas to stay mentally sharp as our brains age. Here are 5 daily brain exercises that can help you do this.
1- MemoryMemory plays a crucial role in all cognitive activities, including reading, reasoning and mental calculation. There are several types of memory at work in the brain. Taken together, these are the cognitive skills we may notice most when they begin to fail. To maintain a good memory, you need to train for it, which can be easier than you think. Listening to music is not only enjoyable, but by choosing a song you don’t know and memorizing the lyrics, you boost the level of acetylcholine, the chemical that helps build your brain, and improve your memoryskills. Challenge yourself even more by showering or getting dressed in the dark or using your opposite hand to brush your teeth. These challenges help build new associations between different neural connections of the brain.
Improve your memory with this HAPPYneuron game.
2- AttentionAttention is necessary in nearly all daily tasks. Good attention enables you to maintain concentration despite noise and distractions and to focus on several activities at once. We can improve our attention by simply changing our routines. Change your route to work or reorganize your desk — both will force your brain to wake up from habits and pay attention again. As we age, our attention span can decrease, making us more susceptible to distraction and less efficient at multitasking. By combining activities like listening to an audio book with jogging or doing math in your head while you drive forces your brain to work at doing more in the same amount of time
Improve your attention with this HAPPYneuron game.
3- LanguageLanguage activities will challenge our ability to recognize, remember and understand words. They also exercise our fluency, grammatical skills and vocabulary. With regular practice, you can expand your knowledge of new words and much more easily retrieve words that are familiar. For example, if you usually only thoroughly read the sports section, try reading a few in-depth business articles. You’ll be exposed to new words, which are easier to understand when read in context or easier to look up on a dictionary site if you are reading the news online. Take time to understand the word in its context, which will help you build your language skills and retrieve the word more readily in front of your bossin the future.
Improve your language skills with this.
4- Visual-SpatialWe live in a colorful, three-dimensional world. Analyzing visual information is necessary to be able to act within your environment. To work this cognitive function, try walking into a room and picking out five items and their locations. When you exit the room, try to recall all five items and where they were located. Too easy? Wait two hours and try to remember those items and their locations. The next time you’re waiting on your coworker or friend to arrive, try this mental exercise. Look straight ahead and note everything you can see both in front of you and in your peripheral vision. Challenge yourself to recall everything and write it down. This will force you to use your memoryand train your brain to focus on your surroundings.
Improve your visual-spatial skills with this HAPPYneuron game.
5- Executive FunctionWithout even realizing it, you use your logic and reasoning skills on a daily basis to make decisions, build up hypotheses and consider the possible consequences of your actions. Activities in which you must define a strategy to reach a desired outcome and calculate the right moves to reach the solution in the shortest possible time are actually fun activities you do daily — like social interaction and, yes, video games. Engaging in a brief visit with a friend boosts your intellectual performance by requiring you to consider possible responses and desired outcomes. Video games require strategy and problem-solvingto reach a desired outcome — like making it to the final level. “It’s not justHalo, honey; I’m exercising my executive brain functions!”
Improve your executive function skills with this....!
Our minds consist of five main cognitive functions:
*.memory,
*.attention,
*.language,
*.visual-spatial skills,
*.and executive function.
It’s important to challenge, stimulate and effectively exercise all five areas to stay mentally sharp as our brains age. Here are 5 daily brain exercises that can help you do this.
1- MemoryMemory plays a crucial role in all cognitive activities, including reading, reasoning and mental calculation. There are several types of memory at work in the brain. Taken together, these are the cognitive skills we may notice most when they begin to fail. To maintain a good memory, you need to train for it, which can be easier than you think. Listening to music is not only enjoyable, but by choosing a song you don’t know and memorizing the lyrics, you boost the level of acetylcholine, the chemical that helps build your brain, and improve your memoryskills. Challenge yourself even more by showering or getting dressed in the dark or using your opposite hand to brush your teeth. These challenges help build new associations between different neural connections of the brain.
Improve your memory with this HAPPYneuron game.
2- AttentionAttention is necessary in nearly all daily tasks. Good attention enables you to maintain concentration despite noise and distractions and to focus on several activities at once. We can improve our attention by simply changing our routines. Change your route to work or reorganize your desk — both will force your brain to wake up from habits and pay attention again. As we age, our attention span can decrease, making us more susceptible to distraction and less efficient at multitasking. By combining activities like listening to an audio book with jogging or doing math in your head while you drive forces your brain to work at doing more in the same amount of time
Improve your attention with this HAPPYneuron game.
3- LanguageLanguage activities will challenge our ability to recognize, remember and understand words. They also exercise our fluency, grammatical skills and vocabulary. With regular practice, you can expand your knowledge of new words and much more easily retrieve words that are familiar. For example, if you usually only thoroughly read the sports section, try reading a few in-depth business articles. You’ll be exposed to new words, which are easier to understand when read in context or easier to look up on a dictionary site if you are reading the news online. Take time to understand the word in its context, which will help you build your language skills and retrieve the word more readily in front of your bossin the future.
Improve your language skills with this.
4- Visual-SpatialWe live in a colorful, three-dimensional world. Analyzing visual information is necessary to be able to act within your environment. To work this cognitive function, try walking into a room and picking out five items and their locations. When you exit the room, try to recall all five items and where they were located. Too easy? Wait two hours and try to remember those items and their locations. The next time you’re waiting on your coworker or friend to arrive, try this mental exercise. Look straight ahead and note everything you can see both in front of you and in your peripheral vision. Challenge yourself to recall everything and write it down. This will force you to use your memoryand train your brain to focus on your surroundings.
Improve your visual-spatial skills with this HAPPYneuron game.
5- Executive FunctionWithout even realizing it, you use your logic and reasoning skills on a daily basis to make decisions, build up hypotheses and consider the possible consequences of your actions. Activities in which you must define a strategy to reach a desired outcome and calculate the right moves to reach the solution in the shortest possible time are actually fun activities you do daily — like social interaction and, yes, video games. Engaging in a brief visit with a friend boosts your intellectual performance by requiring you to consider possible responses and desired outcomes. Video games require strategy and problem-solvingto reach a desired outcome — like making it to the final level. “It’s not justHalo, honey; I’m exercising my executive brain functions!”
Improve your executive function skills with this....!
Common Fitness Program Myths,second release
Common Fitness Program Myths.
Myth 3: Doing moderate-intensity cardio for one hour is the best way to burn fatMany people still believe that since you burn more fat calories during a moderate-intensity session, this is the best way to burn body fat. While it is true that working at a moderate heart rate will make your body burn more calories from fat, the more important thing to look at is thetotalnumber of calories you burn.
When you perform high-intensity interval workouts, you burn more calories per minute than when you work out at a lower intensity. Granted, you may not be able to last as long, but the number of calories you burn during both sessions is actually quite similar. But the advantage of interval training is that it causes your body to burn a significant amount of caloriesafteryou have finished your workout. This means that you will continue burning calories at a higher rate for numerous hours afterward, thus causing the total number of calories burned throughout the day to be higher, translating into a greater fat loss.
High-intensity interval training also tends to help preserve muscle tissue, whereas long moderate-intensity workouts can become catabolic in nature (breaking down muscle).
However, an important point to keep in mind is that you cannot perform high-intensity cardio every day; either alternate high- and moderate-intensity sessions or space out your high-intensity workouts within the week. If you do wish to perform some moderate-intensity sessions, they should last at least 20 minutes so that your body can get into its fat stores; for the first 20 minutes or so, you will most likely just be burning carbohydrates that you have consumed in recent hours. For your intense workouts, you can see benefits — both from a fat-burning and a health benefit standpoint — from doing short 6- to 10-minute workouts.
Myth 4: You need to eat lots of protein to build muscleThe more proteinyou eat, the more muscle you will build, right? Wrong.
The body only needs so much protein every day; when you surpass its requirements, it simply processes the extra calories the same way it would excess carbohydrate or fat calories. The protein is broken down, and some of it is excreted while some is stored as body fat or used as energy. The requirements for protein are 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of bodyweight; this amount will ensure that your body is getting enough of the building blocks it requires to create new muscle.
Rather than ingesting too much protein, a better option would be to supplement your diet with good sources of carbohydrates, as they are the body's preferred source of energy to create the muscle tissue from the protein you took in.
Myth 5: In order to see results, you must push yourself to your limit during every workoutOne of the key factors to getting stronger is rest. If you are going to the gym day in and day out, and pushing yourself to the max, you are likely not recovering from your workouts and not getting any stronger. It is when the body is resting that it can repair itself and rebuild so that it is stronger the next time around. If you work out again before your body has recovered, you will only break the muscle down further, causing you to become weaker rather than stronger.
Incorporating some easy or "off" days into your fitness programwill give your body the time it needs to recover and will give you a psychological break. You will find that you are better able to stay motivated and you will greatly reduce your chances of overtrainingand injury.
more myths to comeStay tuned for the next article, which will demystify more myths, like doing 1,000 crunches a day, eating after 8 p.m. and the efficiency of workout supplements.
Myth 3: Doing moderate-intensity cardio for one hour is the best way to burn fatMany people still believe that since you burn more fat calories during a moderate-intensity session, this is the best way to burn body fat. While it is true that working at a moderate heart rate will make your body burn more calories from fat, the more important thing to look at is thetotalnumber of calories you burn.
When you perform high-intensity interval workouts, you burn more calories per minute than when you work out at a lower intensity. Granted, you may not be able to last as long, but the number of calories you burn during both sessions is actually quite similar. But the advantage of interval training is that it causes your body to burn a significant amount of caloriesafteryou have finished your workout. This means that you will continue burning calories at a higher rate for numerous hours afterward, thus causing the total number of calories burned throughout the day to be higher, translating into a greater fat loss.
High-intensity interval training also tends to help preserve muscle tissue, whereas long moderate-intensity workouts can become catabolic in nature (breaking down muscle).
However, an important point to keep in mind is that you cannot perform high-intensity cardio every day; either alternate high- and moderate-intensity sessions or space out your high-intensity workouts within the week. If you do wish to perform some moderate-intensity sessions, they should last at least 20 minutes so that your body can get into its fat stores; for the first 20 minutes or so, you will most likely just be burning carbohydrates that you have consumed in recent hours. For your intense workouts, you can see benefits — both from a fat-burning and a health benefit standpoint — from doing short 6- to 10-minute workouts.
Myth 4: You need to eat lots of protein to build muscleThe more proteinyou eat, the more muscle you will build, right? Wrong.
The body only needs so much protein every day; when you surpass its requirements, it simply processes the extra calories the same way it would excess carbohydrate or fat calories. The protein is broken down, and some of it is excreted while some is stored as body fat or used as energy. The requirements for protein are 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of bodyweight; this amount will ensure that your body is getting enough of the building blocks it requires to create new muscle.
Rather than ingesting too much protein, a better option would be to supplement your diet with good sources of carbohydrates, as they are the body's preferred source of energy to create the muscle tissue from the protein you took in.
Myth 5: In order to see results, you must push yourself to your limit during every workoutOne of the key factors to getting stronger is rest. If you are going to the gym day in and day out, and pushing yourself to the max, you are likely not recovering from your workouts and not getting any stronger. It is when the body is resting that it can repair itself and rebuild so that it is stronger the next time around. If you work out again before your body has recovered, you will only break the muscle down further, causing you to become weaker rather than stronger.
Incorporating some easy or "off" days into your fitness programwill give your body the time it needs to recover and will give you a psychological break. You will find that you are better able to stay motivated and you will greatly reduce your chances of overtrainingand injury.
more myths to comeStay tuned for the next article, which will demystify more myths, like doing 1,000 crunches a day, eating after 8 p.m. and the efficiency of workout supplements.
Common Fitness Program Myths.
Common Fitness Program Myths:
There are so many different diet and fitness programs out there today that it's hard to know what will give you noticeable results and what will leave you wishing you had spent all those hours in the gym doing something more productive.
There are many knowledgeable people out there who can offer you some great advice on how to achieve your goals, but you also need to be aware of some of the major myths that exist in the bodybuilding and fitness world, such as the ever-popular "carbs are evil" untruth. Over time, though, this myth is being corrected; people are starting to learn not to leave out this vital nutrient and are working it back into their diets.
So make sure you are not falling for the following common myths, or you will likely see your progression begin to slow and could even set yourself up for injury.
Myth 1: Your buddy's fitness program will give you the same resultsThis is a very common notion among bodybuilders, who constantly ask fellow gym partners what kind of fitness program and diet tricks they use, thinking that if they do the same, they will see the same results.
This couldn't be further from the truth.
Granted, it may be a very good program and you may see some results with it, but remember that you have a different physiological makeup than every other guy in the gym, and your body will respond to various training protocols in a different manner. So your best bet is to incorporate some aspects of this "workout God"'s regimen into your program, but play around with the techniques and figure out what works best for you.
You may simply need to reduce the number of reps or substitute one exercise for another in the program. The important thing is to come up with the plan that works best foryou.
Myth 2: You don't need to work out your legs if you jogIt seems like when you walk through a gym these days, everyone is huddled around the free weights doing arms, while there is no one to be seen at the squat rack. Men often decide to forgo any leg training and just concentrate on their upper bodies. They figure that since they went for a run that morning or did some interval training on the bike the day before, they have already worked their legs enough.
The truth is that working your legs will indirectly help your upper body grow. Your leg muscles are incredibly large; when stimulated, they release a large amount of testosterone — the primary anabolic hormone responsible for muscle growth — throughout the body. Thus, you will benefit your upper body on days you don't even work it out.
Also, having a strong lower body is the best basis for the rest of your training. Otherwise, it is like trying to build a house without a foundation — not very effective. So be sure you don't pass up your leg training sessions any longer.
The best way to burn fat, the amount of protein youreallyneed, and more...
There are so many different diet and fitness programs out there today that it's hard to know what will give you noticeable results and what will leave you wishing you had spent all those hours in the gym doing something more productive.
There are many knowledgeable people out there who can offer you some great advice on how to achieve your goals, but you also need to be aware of some of the major myths that exist in the bodybuilding and fitness world, such as the ever-popular "carbs are evil" untruth. Over time, though, this myth is being corrected; people are starting to learn not to leave out this vital nutrient and are working it back into their diets.
So make sure you are not falling for the following common myths, or you will likely see your progression begin to slow and could even set yourself up for injury.
Myth 1: Your buddy's fitness program will give you the same resultsThis is a very common notion among bodybuilders, who constantly ask fellow gym partners what kind of fitness program and diet tricks they use, thinking that if they do the same, they will see the same results.
This couldn't be further from the truth.
Granted, it may be a very good program and you may see some results with it, but remember that you have a different physiological makeup than every other guy in the gym, and your body will respond to various training protocols in a different manner. So your best bet is to incorporate some aspects of this "workout God"'s regimen into your program, but play around with the techniques and figure out what works best for you.
You may simply need to reduce the number of reps or substitute one exercise for another in the program. The important thing is to come up with the plan that works best foryou.
Myth 2: You don't need to work out your legs if you jogIt seems like when you walk through a gym these days, everyone is huddled around the free weights doing arms, while there is no one to be seen at the squat rack. Men often decide to forgo any leg training and just concentrate on their upper bodies. They figure that since they went for a run that morning or did some interval training on the bike the day before, they have already worked their legs enough.
The truth is that working your legs will indirectly help your upper body grow. Your leg muscles are incredibly large; when stimulated, they release a large amount of testosterone — the primary anabolic hormone responsible for muscle growth — throughout the body. Thus, you will benefit your upper body on days you don't even work it out.
Also, having a strong lower body is the best basis for the rest of your training. Otherwise, it is like trying to build a house without a foundation — not very effective. So be sure you don't pass up your leg training sessions any longer.
The best way to burn fat, the amount of protein youreallyneed, and more...
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Know these top 10 most nutrient- rich foods. second release
Know these top 10 most nutrient- rich foods.
7. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are a delicious and reliable source of enriching proteins, vitamins, fiber and complex carbohydrates. These foods also provide generous amounts of ‘trace’ or ‘minor’minerals like selenium, magnesium, copper, and zinc, which are under-consumed in today’s over-processed diets.
Some of the most nutritious nuts and seeds in the world are:
*.Almonds
*.Cashews
*.Flax seeds
*.Peanuts
*.Pumpkin seeds
*.Sesame seeds
*.Sunflower seeds
*.Walnuts
8. Natural sweeteners
Whether made from sugar cane or plants like maple, incorporating natural sweeteners in your diet is one of the healthiest ways to lose weight. Generally, the less you process the sugar source the more nutrients you get in your sweetener.
The world’s best sources of natural sweeteners are:
*.Blackstrap molasses
*.Honey
*.Maple syrup
9. Lean meats and poultry
Lean meat provides essential proteins that have a lower fat and calorie content compared to non-lean meats. Poultry provide important vitamins like vitamins B3 and vitamins B6, as well as trace minerals like selenium and choline. Choline helps with proper nerve function. If you are following a low fat and low calorie diet, lean meats and poultry are a good option for you.
Among the most nutrient-dense lean meats and poultry are:
*.Beef, grass-fed
*.Chicken, pasture-raised
*.Lamb
*.Turkey, pasture-raised
*.Venison
10. Healthy drinks
Besides quenching thirst, drinks can also make part of a healthy diet. Incorporate drinks that offer the most nutritional and health benefits in your diet.
Three of the most nutritious drinks you can use are:
*.Green tea – rich in polyphenols and catechins that fight various cancers and help your heart function properly.
*.Soy sauce – a great antioxidant that is rich in many essential minerals and vitamins.
*.Water – keeps you hydrated and brings a host of health benefits, including preventing kidney damage.Of course, there are many other health-promoting foods like olive oil (extra virgin) that did not make it on this list. If you know other nutrient-dense foods that make a wonderful, healthy diet, don’t hesitate to mention them in the comments. Let us know about them so we can all enjoy the great and natural tastes of those foods too.
7. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are a delicious and reliable source of enriching proteins, vitamins, fiber and complex carbohydrates. These foods also provide generous amounts of ‘trace’ or ‘minor’minerals like selenium, magnesium, copper, and zinc, which are under-consumed in today’s over-processed diets.
Some of the most nutritious nuts and seeds in the world are:
*.Almonds
*.Cashews
*.Flax seeds
*.Peanuts
*.Pumpkin seeds
*.Sesame seeds
*.Sunflower seeds
*.Walnuts
8. Natural sweeteners
Whether made from sugar cane or plants like maple, incorporating natural sweeteners in your diet is one of the healthiest ways to lose weight. Generally, the less you process the sugar source the more nutrients you get in your sweetener.
The world’s best sources of natural sweeteners are:
*.Blackstrap molasses
*.Honey
*.Maple syrup
9. Lean meats and poultry
Lean meat provides essential proteins that have a lower fat and calorie content compared to non-lean meats. Poultry provide important vitamins like vitamins B3 and vitamins B6, as well as trace minerals like selenium and choline. Choline helps with proper nerve function. If you are following a low fat and low calorie diet, lean meats and poultry are a good option for you.
Among the most nutrient-dense lean meats and poultry are:
*.Beef, grass-fed
*.Chicken, pasture-raised
*.Lamb
*.Turkey, pasture-raised
*.Venison
10. Healthy drinks
Besides quenching thirst, drinks can also make part of a healthy diet. Incorporate drinks that offer the most nutritional and health benefits in your diet.
Three of the most nutritious drinks you can use are:
*.Green tea – rich in polyphenols and catechins that fight various cancers and help your heart function properly.
*.Soy sauce – a great antioxidant that is rich in many essential minerals and vitamins.
*.Water – keeps you hydrated and brings a host of health benefits, including preventing kidney damage.Of course, there are many other health-promoting foods like olive oil (extra virgin) that did not make it on this list. If you know other nutrient-dense foods that make a wonderful, healthy diet, don’t hesitate to mention them in the comments. Let us know about them so we can all enjoy the great and natural tastes of those foods too.
Know these top 10 most nutrient- rich foods.
Know these top 10 most nutrient- rich foods.
Gobbling multivitamins every day might be a good way to inject some nutrients in to your system, but let’s face it—eating real food is much more fun than swallowing multivitamins. If you choose the right combination of foods, you are guaranteed to get the essential nutrients your body needs to keep healthy and strong. You just need to know which foods provide the most nutrients. According to TheGeorgeMateljanFoundation (TGMF), a not-for-profit foundation out to help make a healthier you and a healthier world, there are thousands of different foods in the world that contain at least several of the nutrients our bodies need. These nutrient-rich foods are among the world’s healthiest foods and serve as the basis of our healthiest diets.
In the best-selling book The World’s Healthiest Foods, biologist, nutritionist, and TGMF founderGeorgeMateljansays the healthiest foods in the world are the most nutrient-dense sources of natural, essential nutrients. These foods are also the best-tasting, most readily available, common, and inexpensive foods in the world. If you are looking to change your diet for tasty, natural, nutrient-rich foods, these top 10 foods represent the world’s healthiest foods.
1. Vegetables
You can’t argue about the health benefits of a diet rich in vegetables. Vegetables keep your appetite in check so you don’t consume too much or too little food. They lower blood pressure and risk of digestive and eye problems. Vegetables also reduce your risk of stroke, heart disease, and some cancers.
Among the most nutritious vegetables you can eat are:
*.Asparagus
*.Avocados
*.Broccoli
*.Brussels sprouts
*.Cabbage
*.Carrots
*.Cauliflower
*.Celery
*.Collard greens
*.Cucumbers
*.Garlic
*.Onions
*.Potatoes
*.Romaine lettuce
*.Sea vegetables
*.Spinach
*.Squash, summer
*.Squash, winter
*. Sweet potatoes
*.Swiss chard
*.Tomatoes
*.Turnip greens
*.Yams
2. Fruits
Fruits are nature’s best gift of medicine complete with minerals, vitamins, anti-oxidants, and a host of other beneficial, plant-derived micronutrients (phyto-nutrients). These foods are naturally low in fat and calories, and none have cholesterol. Their high disease-prevention value includes protection from chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
Some of the most nutritious fruits you can add to your diet are:
*.Apples
*.Apricots
*.Bananas
*.Blueberries
*.Cantaloupe
*.Cranberries
*.Figs
*.Grapefruit
*.Grapes
*.Kiwifruit
*.Lemon/Limes
*.Oranges
*.Papaya
*.Pears
*.Pineapple
*.Plums
*.Prunes
*.Raisins
*.Raspberries
*.Strawberries
*.Watermelon
3. Whole grains
Whole grains are low in fat and high in fiber. They help keep the colon and heart healthy and also calm inflamed tissues that can cause health problems like swollen feet.
Some of the world’s most nutritious whole grains include:
*.Barley
*.Brown rice
*.Buckwheat
*.Corn
*.Millet
*.Oats
*.Quinoa
*.Rye
*.Spelt
*.Whole wheat
4. Legumes (dried beans and peas)
Legumes are one of the best sources of soluble fiber. They are rich in healthy amounts of iron, magnesium and folic acid. Iron from legumes is especially helpful for people who don’t eat meat. Moreover, dried beans and peas are low in fat and high in quality protein, which is a powerful, health-boosting combination.
Some of the world’s most nutrient-dense legumes are:
*.Black beans
*.Dried peas
*.Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
*.Kidney beans
*.Lentils
*.Lima beans
*.Miso
*.Navy beans
*.Pinto beans
*.Soybeans
*.Tofu and Tempeh
5. Seafood
Seafood provide vital nutrients (most notably the omega - 3fatty acids, EPA and DHA} that help prevent and mitigate common chronic diseases, such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says, “Fish is a food of excellent nutritional value, providing high quality protein and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and D, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium and iodine in marine fish.”
Because of the high nutritional value of seafood, experts recommend you eat two seafood meals each week. Some of the most nutritious and tasty seafood you can eat are:
*.Cod
*.Halibut
*.Salmon
*.Sardines
*.Scallops
*.Shrimp
*.Tuna
6. Low-fat dairy products
Dairy products and milk constitute 10 to 12 percent of our total dietary fat. While whole milk is a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, riboflavin, and phosphorus, it is high in saturated fat and can cause problems with high calories and weight gain. Low-fat milk (1% milk) and eggs have very little fat. The low-fat products help build muscles, prevent obesity, and lower risks of diseases like type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Among the world’s best low-fat dairy products and eggs are:
*.Cheese, grass-fed
*.Cow’s milk, grass-fed
*.Eggs, pasture-raised
*.Milk, goat
*.Yogurt, grass-fed
Gobbling multivitamins every day might be a good way to inject some nutrients in to your system, but let’s face it—eating real food is much more fun than swallowing multivitamins. If you choose the right combination of foods, you are guaranteed to get the essential nutrients your body needs to keep healthy and strong. You just need to know which foods provide the most nutrients. According to TheGeorgeMateljanFoundation (TGMF), a not-for-profit foundation out to help make a healthier you and a healthier world, there are thousands of different foods in the world that contain at least several of the nutrients our bodies need. These nutrient-rich foods are among the world’s healthiest foods and serve as the basis of our healthiest diets.
In the best-selling book The World’s Healthiest Foods, biologist, nutritionist, and TGMF founderGeorgeMateljansays the healthiest foods in the world are the most nutrient-dense sources of natural, essential nutrients. These foods are also the best-tasting, most readily available, common, and inexpensive foods in the world. If you are looking to change your diet for tasty, natural, nutrient-rich foods, these top 10 foods represent the world’s healthiest foods.
1. Vegetables
You can’t argue about the health benefits of a diet rich in vegetables. Vegetables keep your appetite in check so you don’t consume too much or too little food. They lower blood pressure and risk of digestive and eye problems. Vegetables also reduce your risk of stroke, heart disease, and some cancers.
Among the most nutritious vegetables you can eat are:
*.Asparagus
*.Avocados
*.Broccoli
*.Brussels sprouts
*.Cabbage
*.Carrots
*.Cauliflower
*.Celery
*.Collard greens
*.Cucumbers
*.Garlic
*.Onions
*.Potatoes
*.Romaine lettuce
*.Sea vegetables
*.Spinach
*.Squash, summer
*.Squash, winter
*. Sweet potatoes
*.Swiss chard
*.Tomatoes
*.Turnip greens
*.Yams
2. Fruits
Fruits are nature’s best gift of medicine complete with minerals, vitamins, anti-oxidants, and a host of other beneficial, plant-derived micronutrients (phyto-nutrients). These foods are naturally low in fat and calories, and none have cholesterol. Their high disease-prevention value includes protection from chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
Some of the most nutritious fruits you can add to your diet are:
*.Apples
*.Apricots
*.Bananas
*.Blueberries
*.Cantaloupe
*.Cranberries
*.Figs
*.Grapefruit
*.Grapes
*.Kiwifruit
*.Lemon/Limes
*.Oranges
*.Papaya
*.Pears
*.Pineapple
*.Plums
*.Prunes
*.Raisins
*.Raspberries
*.Strawberries
*.Watermelon
3. Whole grains
Whole grains are low in fat and high in fiber. They help keep the colon and heart healthy and also calm inflamed tissues that can cause health problems like swollen feet.
Some of the world’s most nutritious whole grains include:
*.Barley
*.Brown rice
*.Buckwheat
*.Corn
*.Millet
*.Oats
*.Quinoa
*.Rye
*.Spelt
*.Whole wheat
4. Legumes (dried beans and peas)
Legumes are one of the best sources of soluble fiber. They are rich in healthy amounts of iron, magnesium and folic acid. Iron from legumes is especially helpful for people who don’t eat meat. Moreover, dried beans and peas are low in fat and high in quality protein, which is a powerful, health-boosting combination.
Some of the world’s most nutrient-dense legumes are:
*.Black beans
*.Dried peas
*.Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
*.Kidney beans
*.Lentils
*.Lima beans
*.Miso
*.Navy beans
*.Pinto beans
*.Soybeans
*.Tofu and Tempeh
5. Seafood
Seafood provide vital nutrients (most notably the omega - 3fatty acids, EPA and DHA} that help prevent and mitigate common chronic diseases, such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says, “Fish is a food of excellent nutritional value, providing high quality protein and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and D, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium and iodine in marine fish.”
Because of the high nutritional value of seafood, experts recommend you eat two seafood meals each week. Some of the most nutritious and tasty seafood you can eat are:
*.Cod
*.Halibut
*.Salmon
*.Sardines
*.Scallops
*.Shrimp
*.Tuna
6. Low-fat dairy products
Dairy products and milk constitute 10 to 12 percent of our total dietary fat. While whole milk is a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, riboflavin, and phosphorus, it is high in saturated fat and can cause problems with high calories and weight gain. Low-fat milk (1% milk) and eggs have very little fat. The low-fat products help build muscles, prevent obesity, and lower risks of diseases like type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Among the world’s best low-fat dairy products and eggs are:
*.Cheese, grass-fed
*.Cow’s milk, grass-fed
*.Eggs, pasture-raised
*.Milk, goat
*.Yogurt, grass-fed
Monday, December 9, 2013
Namna ya kufanya siku yako kuwa nzuri.
Namna ya kufanya siku yako kuwa nzuri.
Kuwa na siku nzuri itatagemea wewe mwenyewe mambo gani utafanya kwa siku hiyo kama ni kazi au shughuli zako za kila siku za nyumbani, kazini, shuleni au popote pale ulipopanga kuwa kwa siku hiyo. Kwa namna utakavyotumia siku yako kuanzia umeamka asubuhi na mapema mpaka kufikia jioni ndio kitu cha msingi sana cha kutathmini kila siku.
Ni vizuri kutathmini yale yote uliyofanya kwa siku kwa kujiuliza mwenyewe kama siku yako ilikuwa ni yenye faida au hasara.MwanafasafaJim Rohnaliwahi kusema
“At the end of the each day, you should play back the tapes of your performance. The results should either applaud you of prod you.”– Jim Rohn
Kwa maana hiyo ikiwa kila mwisho wa siku utatumia walau dakika 10 kutathmini yale uliyofanya na kupima matokeo ya yale uliyofanya kwa siku lahasha utakuwa umefanya jambo la msingi litakalokuwezesha kutambua udhaifu na uhodari wako, faida na hasara uliyopata kwa siku. Unaweza kujiuliza hivi,
*.Je siku yako ilikuwa nzuri au mbaya ?
*.Umefanya nini kwa siku ya leo kilichokupa faraja?
*.Je leo umekasirika? Kama NDIYO ni nini kilichokuchukiza?
*.Umefanya jambo gani zuri lililokupa faida kwa siku ya leo?Faida inaweza kuwa ni umeimarisha mahusiano yako ya kimapenzi na wako umpendae, umeonyesha upendo wako kwa ndugu au familia yako, inaweza kuwa umejiingizia kipato kikubwa cha fedha kutokana na kazi au biashara yako, umekwenda kliniki ku-check afya yako, umechangia kununua kitu fulani nyumbani kwa manufaa ya familia yako nakadhalika. Ninachomaanisha hapa ni kujitahidi angalau kila siku uwekeze kitu kidogo cha kimaendeleo sio lazima iwe ni pesa au mali bali kinaweza kuwa kitu chochote kile.
Inapendeza sana ikiwa mtu atatumia siku yake vilivyo kufanya yale yote yanayomletea faraja na kumfanya aishi maisha yenye mantiki kwake na hatimaye kufanikiwa kila siku katika yale aliyoazimia kufanya kwa siku hiyo.
Kujua zaidi: Soma Maswali muhimu ya kujiuliza kila siku.
Soma haya mambo saba (7) yakusaidie siku yako kuwa nzuri.
1. Kuwa na fikra chanya kwa kuwaza mema.
Ifanye akili yako ifikiri kila kitu kinawezekana, jiamini na fanya mambo yako kwa umakini na uhodari ukijua kila kitu kitakwenda vizuri.
2. Fanya mazoezi kuweka mwili wako sawa.
Amka asubuhi na mapema saa 11 au 12 asubuhi, fanya mazoezi angalau kwa dakika 30. Nyoosha viungo vyako vya mwili, ukitokwa na jasho jipongeze kwa kuwa ni kipimo cha kuwa umejishughulisha kufanya mazoezi ipasavyo. Kunywa maji kupooza mwili, pata juisi fresh ya matunda kisha endelea na shughuli zako nyingine.
Unaweza soma pia: Je unajua manufaa ya kufanya mazoezi?
3. Kula vizuri.
Usijaze tumbo lako kwa kula vyakula vibaya. Epuka kula vyakula vyenye mafuta mengi, chumvi au sukari nyingi. Kula wanga kiasi, ni vizuri pia kunywa supu au mchemsho wa nyama (ng’ombe, kuku, bata, samaki n.k), usisahau pia katika mlo wako kuwa na mboga mboga za majani na matunda. Kula vizuri kwa afya bora.
4. Ondoa hofu au wasiwasi.
Kuwa na amani pamoja na utulivu wa nafsi. Hakuna sababu ya kuhofia kitu kwakuwa mara nyingi unavyohofia huwa si vya kweli au hata kama ni vya kweli ni kwa nadra sana vitakutokea kwako. Jifunze kuona sio kila kitu kinachowatokea wengine nawe lazima vikupate. Upe faraja moyo wako na kuwa na matumaini kwa kutegemea mambo mazuri yanakuja mbeleni hata kama si leo basi ni kesho. Usikate tamaa kwa shida ya leo iliyokufanya ufadhaike na kuhofia kesho kuwa hali itakuwa mbaya zaidi.HAPANAsiku hazigandi ya jana si lazima yawe ya leo. Inuka kwa ujasiri, jifunze kutokana na makosa yaliyokufanya ujikwae na songa mbele.
5. Jifunze kitu kipya kila siku.
Soma lolote linaloweza kukujenga kimaisha kwa siku ya leo. Wewe ni mfanyakazi basi soma kitu chochote cha kukuongezea ujuzi kwenye kazi yako na kupanua wigo wa kuendeleza, kukuza na kuboresha kazi yako kuwa bora zaidi. Ama kama wewe ni kijana wa nyumbani huendi shule au hufanyi kazi yeyote ile ya ziada zaidi ya hizo za nyumbani, tafuta mahali popote karibu na nyumbani wanapotoa mafunzo yeyote ya stadi za kazi, ujasiriamali au elimu yeyote ile ya maisha. (Jifunze ufundi wa kujenga nyumba, kushona nguo, kilimo, ufundi seremala, mapishi nakadhalika). Noa maarifa yako kwa kuongeza ujuzi.
6. Tabasamu au cheka kwa furaha kila unapofurahishwa.
Huna sababu ya kununa wakati wote, tabasamu kama mtoto mchanga asiyejua shida yeyote. Furahia kila wakati mzuri unaopata kuwa na rafiki, ndugu, jamaa au familia yako. Furaha yako ni tiba nzuri kwa afya yako kwakuwa unajiepushia matatizo mengi kama msongo wa mawazo (stress), shinikizo la damu (blood pressure) nakadhalika. Ishi kwa wakati bila kujiwekea kisirani cha mambo ya jana au yaliyopita.
7. Jipumzishe kwa kulala vizuri.
Lala usingizi mzuri wenye utulivu na amani kwa masaa 8. Ikiwa utakuwa busy sana basi jipumzishe kwa kulala angalau masaa 6. Zingatia ubora wa usingizi (lala mahali safi, tulivu na pasipo na adha yeyote ile) na si bora kulala tu. Lala usingizi mzuri kwa afya bora.
Kuwa na siku nzuri itatagemea wewe mwenyewe mambo gani utafanya kwa siku hiyo kama ni kazi au shughuli zako za kila siku za nyumbani, kazini, shuleni au popote pale ulipopanga kuwa kwa siku hiyo. Kwa namna utakavyotumia siku yako kuanzia umeamka asubuhi na mapema mpaka kufikia jioni ndio kitu cha msingi sana cha kutathmini kila siku.
Ni vizuri kutathmini yale yote uliyofanya kwa siku kwa kujiuliza mwenyewe kama siku yako ilikuwa ni yenye faida au hasara.MwanafasafaJim Rohnaliwahi kusema
“At the end of the each day, you should play back the tapes of your performance. The results should either applaud you of prod you.”– Jim Rohn
Kwa maana hiyo ikiwa kila mwisho wa siku utatumia walau dakika 10 kutathmini yale uliyofanya na kupima matokeo ya yale uliyofanya kwa siku lahasha utakuwa umefanya jambo la msingi litakalokuwezesha kutambua udhaifu na uhodari wako, faida na hasara uliyopata kwa siku. Unaweza kujiuliza hivi,
*.Je siku yako ilikuwa nzuri au mbaya ?
*.Umefanya nini kwa siku ya leo kilichokupa faraja?
*.Je leo umekasirika? Kama NDIYO ni nini kilichokuchukiza?
*.Umefanya jambo gani zuri lililokupa faida kwa siku ya leo?Faida inaweza kuwa ni umeimarisha mahusiano yako ya kimapenzi na wako umpendae, umeonyesha upendo wako kwa ndugu au familia yako, inaweza kuwa umejiingizia kipato kikubwa cha fedha kutokana na kazi au biashara yako, umekwenda kliniki ku-check afya yako, umechangia kununua kitu fulani nyumbani kwa manufaa ya familia yako nakadhalika. Ninachomaanisha hapa ni kujitahidi angalau kila siku uwekeze kitu kidogo cha kimaendeleo sio lazima iwe ni pesa au mali bali kinaweza kuwa kitu chochote kile.
Inapendeza sana ikiwa mtu atatumia siku yake vilivyo kufanya yale yote yanayomletea faraja na kumfanya aishi maisha yenye mantiki kwake na hatimaye kufanikiwa kila siku katika yale aliyoazimia kufanya kwa siku hiyo.
Kujua zaidi: Soma Maswali muhimu ya kujiuliza kila siku.
Soma haya mambo saba (7) yakusaidie siku yako kuwa nzuri.
1. Kuwa na fikra chanya kwa kuwaza mema.
Ifanye akili yako ifikiri kila kitu kinawezekana, jiamini na fanya mambo yako kwa umakini na uhodari ukijua kila kitu kitakwenda vizuri.
2. Fanya mazoezi kuweka mwili wako sawa.
Amka asubuhi na mapema saa 11 au 12 asubuhi, fanya mazoezi angalau kwa dakika 30. Nyoosha viungo vyako vya mwili, ukitokwa na jasho jipongeze kwa kuwa ni kipimo cha kuwa umejishughulisha kufanya mazoezi ipasavyo. Kunywa maji kupooza mwili, pata juisi fresh ya matunda kisha endelea na shughuli zako nyingine.
Unaweza soma pia: Je unajua manufaa ya kufanya mazoezi?
3. Kula vizuri.
Usijaze tumbo lako kwa kula vyakula vibaya. Epuka kula vyakula vyenye mafuta mengi, chumvi au sukari nyingi. Kula wanga kiasi, ni vizuri pia kunywa supu au mchemsho wa nyama (ng’ombe, kuku, bata, samaki n.k), usisahau pia katika mlo wako kuwa na mboga mboga za majani na matunda. Kula vizuri kwa afya bora.
4. Ondoa hofu au wasiwasi.
Kuwa na amani pamoja na utulivu wa nafsi. Hakuna sababu ya kuhofia kitu kwakuwa mara nyingi unavyohofia huwa si vya kweli au hata kama ni vya kweli ni kwa nadra sana vitakutokea kwako. Jifunze kuona sio kila kitu kinachowatokea wengine nawe lazima vikupate. Upe faraja moyo wako na kuwa na matumaini kwa kutegemea mambo mazuri yanakuja mbeleni hata kama si leo basi ni kesho. Usikate tamaa kwa shida ya leo iliyokufanya ufadhaike na kuhofia kesho kuwa hali itakuwa mbaya zaidi.HAPANAsiku hazigandi ya jana si lazima yawe ya leo. Inuka kwa ujasiri, jifunze kutokana na makosa yaliyokufanya ujikwae na songa mbele.
5. Jifunze kitu kipya kila siku.
Soma lolote linaloweza kukujenga kimaisha kwa siku ya leo. Wewe ni mfanyakazi basi soma kitu chochote cha kukuongezea ujuzi kwenye kazi yako na kupanua wigo wa kuendeleza, kukuza na kuboresha kazi yako kuwa bora zaidi. Ama kama wewe ni kijana wa nyumbani huendi shule au hufanyi kazi yeyote ile ya ziada zaidi ya hizo za nyumbani, tafuta mahali popote karibu na nyumbani wanapotoa mafunzo yeyote ya stadi za kazi, ujasiriamali au elimu yeyote ile ya maisha. (Jifunze ufundi wa kujenga nyumba, kushona nguo, kilimo, ufundi seremala, mapishi nakadhalika). Noa maarifa yako kwa kuongeza ujuzi.
6. Tabasamu au cheka kwa furaha kila unapofurahishwa.
Huna sababu ya kununa wakati wote, tabasamu kama mtoto mchanga asiyejua shida yeyote. Furahia kila wakati mzuri unaopata kuwa na rafiki, ndugu, jamaa au familia yako. Furaha yako ni tiba nzuri kwa afya yako kwakuwa unajiepushia matatizo mengi kama msongo wa mawazo (stress), shinikizo la damu (blood pressure) nakadhalika. Ishi kwa wakati bila kujiwekea kisirani cha mambo ya jana au yaliyopita.
7. Jipumzishe kwa kulala vizuri.
Lala usingizi mzuri wenye utulivu na amani kwa masaa 8. Ikiwa utakuwa busy sana basi jipumzishe kwa kulala angalau masaa 6. Zingatia ubora wa usingizi (lala mahali safi, tulivu na pasipo na adha yeyote ile) na si bora kulala tu. Lala usingizi mzuri kwa afya bora.
Noa maarifa yako ya kibiashara kwa hadithi hii.YOUR GOLDEN GOOSE:
Your Golden Goose:
Do you think your most valuable asset is a possession? Your home, your car, your stereo or your savings? No, none of these things are your most valuable asset.
Even if you have millions of dollars. Your money is not your most valuable asset. In fact, it might become a liability if you get obsessed about keeping it and protecting it. Your life can become controlled by your cash.
No, the most valuable financial asset you own is not a possession, but your personal golden goose.
The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs
The Greek slave Aesop told this story 2500 years ago. A man and his wife owned a goose that laid a golden egg every day. They decided they were not getting rich fast enough. They believed the bird must be full of gold and so decided to kill it.
When they cut open their golden goose, they found it was just like any other goose. They not only failed to get rich all at once as they had hoped, they no longer enjoyed the daily golden eggs.
Because you have probably heard this story, you would never think of cutting a goose that laid golden eggs for you. You would take special care of that goose. You would buy it the best goose feed, build it the most comfortable goose nest and give it the nicest goose pond available, right?
The truth is, you own a golden goose.
Conditions of Success
"The conditions of success are few and easily stated.
"The ability to hold a job depends, in the main, upon ability.
"One's intelligence is directly related to his ability. There is no such thing as being too smart. But there is such a thing as being too stupid." -- L. Ron Hubbardfrom The Problems of Work
Your ability to work and produce something valuable is the goose that lays golden eggs for you. The more ability you have, the more golden eggs you can earn.
The Best Investment in the World
Professional investors are constantly searching for investments (golden geese) with three qualities:
1. The investment must be safe and secure.
2. It must produce above-average income.
3. Opportunities to buy the investment must be everywhere.
Your ability to make money, fits all three qualities.
1. Your ability to earn money is safe. Some idiot might try to kill your goose with criticism, attacks or backstabbing. Yet once you bounce back, your skills start to produce golden eggs again. Your skills do not easily disappear.
2. By investing in your golden goose, you can earn a huge income.
For example, a doctor spends $90,000 on education and then earns $180,000 per year. He or she earns twice the education cost every year. How many other types of investments can do that?
As another example, you decide to take a sales class. You pay $5,000 for the class and travel costs. You come back to your business and increase your sales by $1,000 per month or $12,000 per year. By investing $5,000, you get back $12,000 the first year. This is a return of 240% which any investor will tell you is an incredible return.
You can expect an excellent return on your investment by obtaining any skill: people skills, computer skills, speaking skills and so on. Even better is improving your personal power base -- your ability to deal with difficult situations, to make correct decisions, to work harder, to accomplish more, to do tough jobs.
3. Skill-enhancement opportunities are all around you. Professional investors spend most of their time looking for golden geese.They are happy if 60% of their investments make money. By investing in your personal abilities, you can expect 90-100% of these investments will help you succeed. Because you get some improvement from everything you learn, you have no real risk.
Recommendations
1. Make a list of all the abilities you have that make you money.For example, "My ability to handle customer's complaints." "My ability to lead great workshops." "My ability to build garages."
2. Next to each item on your list, write down how you can improve each of theseabilities. For example, "As well has handle complaints, I'd like to know how to make people happy." "As well as leading great workshops, I'd like to give them business consulting." "As well as building garages, I'd like to learn how to build houses."
3. Next to each of these new abilities, write down what you can do to obtain them.Examples: "Read every book I can find on helping people." "Take classes in my spare time on business consulting." "Find a successful construction company owner who is willing to train me."
4. Take action. Invest all your spare time into yourself.
If you do one thing every day, to improve your golden goose, you will soon have all the golden eggs you need.
Nakutakia furaha na mafanikio tele katika maisha yako!
Do you think your most valuable asset is a possession? Your home, your car, your stereo or your savings? No, none of these things are your most valuable asset.
Even if you have millions of dollars. Your money is not your most valuable asset. In fact, it might become a liability if you get obsessed about keeping it and protecting it. Your life can become controlled by your cash.
No, the most valuable financial asset you own is not a possession, but your personal golden goose.
The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs
The Greek slave Aesop told this story 2500 years ago. A man and his wife owned a goose that laid a golden egg every day. They decided they were not getting rich fast enough. They believed the bird must be full of gold and so decided to kill it.
When they cut open their golden goose, they found it was just like any other goose. They not only failed to get rich all at once as they had hoped, they no longer enjoyed the daily golden eggs.
Because you have probably heard this story, you would never think of cutting a goose that laid golden eggs for you. You would take special care of that goose. You would buy it the best goose feed, build it the most comfortable goose nest and give it the nicest goose pond available, right?
The truth is, you own a golden goose.
Conditions of Success
"The conditions of success are few and easily stated.
"The ability to hold a job depends, in the main, upon ability.
"One's intelligence is directly related to his ability. There is no such thing as being too smart. But there is such a thing as being too stupid." -- L. Ron Hubbardfrom The Problems of Work
Your ability to work and produce something valuable is the goose that lays golden eggs for you. The more ability you have, the more golden eggs you can earn.
The Best Investment in the World
Professional investors are constantly searching for investments (golden geese) with three qualities:
1. The investment must be safe and secure.
2. It must produce above-average income.
3. Opportunities to buy the investment must be everywhere.
Your ability to make money, fits all three qualities.
1. Your ability to earn money is safe. Some idiot might try to kill your goose with criticism, attacks or backstabbing. Yet once you bounce back, your skills start to produce golden eggs again. Your skills do not easily disappear.
2. By investing in your golden goose, you can earn a huge income.
For example, a doctor spends $90,000 on education and then earns $180,000 per year. He or she earns twice the education cost every year. How many other types of investments can do that?
As another example, you decide to take a sales class. You pay $5,000 for the class and travel costs. You come back to your business and increase your sales by $1,000 per month or $12,000 per year. By investing $5,000, you get back $12,000 the first year. This is a return of 240% which any investor will tell you is an incredible return.
You can expect an excellent return on your investment by obtaining any skill: people skills, computer skills, speaking skills and so on. Even better is improving your personal power base -- your ability to deal with difficult situations, to make correct decisions, to work harder, to accomplish more, to do tough jobs.
3. Skill-enhancement opportunities are all around you. Professional investors spend most of their time looking for golden geese.They are happy if 60% of their investments make money. By investing in your personal abilities, you can expect 90-100% of these investments will help you succeed. Because you get some improvement from everything you learn, you have no real risk.
Recommendations
1. Make a list of all the abilities you have that make you money.For example, "My ability to handle customer's complaints." "My ability to lead great workshops." "My ability to build garages."
2. Next to each item on your list, write down how you can improve each of theseabilities. For example, "As well has handle complaints, I'd like to know how to make people happy." "As well as leading great workshops, I'd like to give them business consulting." "As well as building garages, I'd like to learn how to build houses."
3. Next to each of these new abilities, write down what you can do to obtain them.Examples: "Read every book I can find on helping people." "Take classes in my spare time on business consulting." "Find a successful construction company owner who is willing to train me."
4. Take action. Invest all your spare time into yourself.
If you do one thing every day, to improve your golden goose, you will soon have all the golden eggs you need.
Nakutakia furaha na mafanikio tele katika maisha yako!
Noa maarifa yako ya kibiashara kwa hadithi hii.YOUR GOLDEN GOOSE:
Your Golden Goose:
Do you think your most valuable asset is a possession? Your home, your car, your stereo or your savings? No, none of these things are your most valuable asset.
Even if you have millions of dollars. Your money is not your most valuable asset. In fact, it might become a liability if you get obsessed about keeping it and protecting it. Your life can become controlled by your cash.
No, the most valuable financial asset you own is not a possession, but your personal golden goose.
The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs
The Greek slave Aesop told this story 2500 years ago. A man and his wife owned a goose that laid a golden egg every day. They decided they were not getting rich fast enough. They believed the bird must be full of gold and so decided to kill it.
When they cut open their golden goose, they found it was just like any other goose. They not only failed to get rich all at once as they had hoped, they no longer enjoyed the daily golden eggs.
Because you have probably heard this story, you would never think of cutting a goose that laid golden eggs for you. You would take special care of that goose. You would buy it the best goose feed, build it the most comfortable goose nest and give it the nicest goose pond available, right?
The truth is, you own a golden goose.
Conditions of Success
"The conditions of success are few and easily stated.
"The ability to hold a job depends, in the main, upon ability.
"One's intelligence is directly related to his ability. There is no such thing as being too smart. But there is such a thing as being too stupid." -- L. Ron Hubbardfrom The Problems of Work
Your ability to work and produce something valuable is the goose that lays golden eggs for you. The more ability you have, the more golden eggs you can earn.
The Best Investment in the World
Professional investors are constantly searching for investments (golden geese) with three qualities:
1. The investment must be safe and secure.
2. It must produce above-average income.
3. Opportunities to buy the investment must be everywhere.
Your ability to make money, fits all three qualities.
1. Your ability to earn money is safe. Some idiot might try to kill your goose with criticism, attacks or backstabbing. Yet once you bounce back, your skills start to produce golden eggs again. Your skills do not easily disappear.
2. By investing in your golden goose, you can earn a huge income.
For example, a doctor spends $90,000 on education and then earns $180,000 per year. He or she earns twice the education cost every year. How many other types of investments can do that?
As another example, you decide to take a sales class. You pay $5,000 for the class and travel costs. You come back to your business and increase your sales by $1,000 per month or $12,000 per year. By investing $5,000, you get back $12,000 the first year. This is a return of 240% which any investor will tell you is an incredible return.
You can expect an excellent return on your investment by obtaining any skill: people skills, computer skills, speaking skills and so on. Even better is improving your personal power base -- your ability to deal with difficult situations, to make correct decisions, to work harder, to accomplish more, to do tough jobs.
3. Skill-enhancement opportunities are all around you. Professional investors spend most of their time looking for golden geese.They are happy if 60% of their investments make money. By investing in your personal abilities, you can expect 90-100% of these investments will help you succeed. Because you get some improvement from everything you learn, you have no real risk.
Recommendations
1. Make a list of all the abilities you have that make you money.For example, "My ability to handle customer's complaints." "My ability to lead great workshops." "My ability to build garages."
2. Next to each item on your list, write down how you can improve each of theseabilities. For example, "As well has handle complaints, I'd like to know how to make people happy." "As well as leading great workshops, I'd like to give them business consulting." "As well as building garages, I'd like to learn how to build houses."
3. Next to each of these new abilities, write down what you can do to obtain them.Examples: "Read every book I can find on helping people." "Take classes in my spare time on business consulting." "Find a successful construction company owner who is willing to train me."
4. Take action. Invest all your spare time into yourself.
If you do one thing every day, to improve your golden goose, you will soon have all the golden eggs you need.
Nakutakia furaha na mafanikio tele katika maisha yako!
Do you think your most valuable asset is a possession? Your home, your car, your stereo or your savings? No, none of these things are your most valuable asset.
Even if you have millions of dollars. Your money is not your most valuable asset. In fact, it might become a liability if you get obsessed about keeping it and protecting it. Your life can become controlled by your cash.
No, the most valuable financial asset you own is not a possession, but your personal golden goose.
The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs
The Greek slave Aesop told this story 2500 years ago. A man and his wife owned a goose that laid a golden egg every day. They decided they were not getting rich fast enough. They believed the bird must be full of gold and so decided to kill it.
When they cut open their golden goose, they found it was just like any other goose. They not only failed to get rich all at once as they had hoped, they no longer enjoyed the daily golden eggs.
Because you have probably heard this story, you would never think of cutting a goose that laid golden eggs for you. You would take special care of that goose. You would buy it the best goose feed, build it the most comfortable goose nest and give it the nicest goose pond available, right?
The truth is, you own a golden goose.
Conditions of Success
"The conditions of success are few and easily stated.
"The ability to hold a job depends, in the main, upon ability.
"One's intelligence is directly related to his ability. There is no such thing as being too smart. But there is such a thing as being too stupid." -- L. Ron Hubbardfrom The Problems of Work
Your ability to work and produce something valuable is the goose that lays golden eggs for you. The more ability you have, the more golden eggs you can earn.
The Best Investment in the World
Professional investors are constantly searching for investments (golden geese) with three qualities:
1. The investment must be safe and secure.
2. It must produce above-average income.
3. Opportunities to buy the investment must be everywhere.
Your ability to make money, fits all three qualities.
1. Your ability to earn money is safe. Some idiot might try to kill your goose with criticism, attacks or backstabbing. Yet once you bounce back, your skills start to produce golden eggs again. Your skills do not easily disappear.
2. By investing in your golden goose, you can earn a huge income.
For example, a doctor spends $90,000 on education and then earns $180,000 per year. He or she earns twice the education cost every year. How many other types of investments can do that?
As another example, you decide to take a sales class. You pay $5,000 for the class and travel costs. You come back to your business and increase your sales by $1,000 per month or $12,000 per year. By investing $5,000, you get back $12,000 the first year. This is a return of 240% which any investor will tell you is an incredible return.
You can expect an excellent return on your investment by obtaining any skill: people skills, computer skills, speaking skills and so on. Even better is improving your personal power base -- your ability to deal with difficult situations, to make correct decisions, to work harder, to accomplish more, to do tough jobs.
3. Skill-enhancement opportunities are all around you. Professional investors spend most of their time looking for golden geese.They are happy if 60% of their investments make money. By investing in your personal abilities, you can expect 90-100% of these investments will help you succeed. Because you get some improvement from everything you learn, you have no real risk.
Recommendations
1. Make a list of all the abilities you have that make you money.For example, "My ability to handle customer's complaints." "My ability to lead great workshops." "My ability to build garages."
2. Next to each item on your list, write down how you can improve each of theseabilities. For example, "As well has handle complaints, I'd like to know how to make people happy." "As well as leading great workshops, I'd like to give them business consulting." "As well as building garages, I'd like to learn how to build houses."
3. Next to each of these new abilities, write down what you can do to obtain them.Examples: "Read every book I can find on helping people." "Take classes in my spare time on business consulting." "Find a successful construction company owner who is willing to train me."
4. Take action. Invest all your spare time into yourself.
If you do one thing every day, to improve your golden goose, you will soon have all the golden eggs you need.
Nakutakia furaha na mafanikio tele katika maisha yako!
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Best smartphone 2013: The best phone available to buy today.
1. HTC One
The HTC One is a triumph of design and sumptuous to hold. It balances size with practicality, making it a great all-rounder: there's space to play, but you're not grappling with something that feels too large. There's a stunning 4.7-inch display on the front, with a Full HD resolution, so Android looks pin sharp, delivering some of the best quality visuals you'll find on a smartphone.
It might not have the most-powerful hardware inside, but it still skips through daily tasks with ease, but if out-and-out power is what you're after, you might want to look at what's on offer elsewhere.
HTC Sense has been refined with a lot of the clutter removed to focus on the essential features. There's an elegance and sophistication to HTC's flagship phone for 2013, making it a pleasure to use.
The camera might not be the best for straight photos, but the unique features it offers are really fun. This is paired with stunning sound quality that's best-in-class to result in a smartphone that covers all bases.
The HTC One was awarded Best Smartphone 2013 in the 10th Annual Pocket-lint Awards and more recently, HTC has announced a One with a removable back, so it will take microSD.
QUICK VERDICT:HTC has a history of making good phones, so the HTC One doesn't comes as a surprise to us. It's a fantastic Android smartphone and is well worthy of your consideration if you're in the market for a premium device.
FULL REVIEW: HTC One review
The HTC One is a triumph of design and sumptuous to hold. It balances size with practicality, making it a great all-rounder: there's space to play, but you're not grappling with something that feels too large. There's a stunning 4.7-inch display on the front, with a Full HD resolution, so Android looks pin sharp, delivering some of the best quality visuals you'll find on a smartphone.
It might not have the most-powerful hardware inside, but it still skips through daily tasks with ease, but if out-and-out power is what you're after, you might want to look at what's on offer elsewhere.
HTC Sense has been refined with a lot of the clutter removed to focus on the essential features. There's an elegance and sophistication to HTC's flagship phone for 2013, making it a pleasure to use.
The camera might not be the best for straight photos, but the unique features it offers are really fun. This is paired with stunning sound quality that's best-in-class to result in a smartphone that covers all bases.
The HTC One was awarded Best Smartphone 2013 in the 10th Annual Pocket-lint Awards and more recently, HTC has announced a One with a removable back, so it will take microSD.
QUICK VERDICT:HTC has a history of making good phones, so the HTC One doesn't comes as a surprise to us. It's a fantastic Android smartphone and is well worthy of your consideration if you're in the market for a premium device.
FULL REVIEW: HTC One review
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today, lastly release.
4. LG G2
LG hasn't had the smoothest run of in the world of modern smartphones, but the LG G2 brings things back into focus. There's heaps of power on offer and a 5.2-inch display crammed into a body that's still fairly compact: LG has banished bezels, so you get more space to play. It's an enormously powerful phone, and is rumoured by some to be the forerunner to the Nexus 5. The point is though, this phone competes brilliantly with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S4 while offering a more "Android" experience, through a slightly less customised UI.
Some have expressed dislike of the rear-mounted buttons, but they make sense when you're in a call and trying to adjust the volume - far more so, at least, than side mounted buttons do. The biggest problem we had was with the camera, which we just weren't all that impressed by. It's good enough, but the SGS4 beats it easily, and the iPhone is streets ahead.
But best of all, the display is outstanding. LCD screens have great detail, and accurate colours that OLED screens can't claim. And the high-quality audio system will blow you away if you plug in some high-quality music, and some decent headphones. What we like most is that LG hasn't just thrown features at the phone. It's thought about what is missing from current phones, and what customers might like to have, and done its best to incorporate those into the phone. We're sold.
QUICK VERDICT:LG has done it. The G2 really is a compelling alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S4 and even the iPhone. We like LG's take on a phone, we think it has thoughtfully and successfully made a handset that does everything we want, without overloading us with features we don't need. If you've after power and a big display, it's the LG G2 you want. We just wish that camera was better.
READ: LG G2 review
3. Motorola Moto G
The Motorola Moto G has taken a lot of people by surprise. We've heard the sentiments plenty of times before: performance at a price, without compromise. Motorola, however, went ahead an got it right. The Moto G is a fantastic smartphone and incredible value for money that's difficult to ignore.
Take the price out of the equation and you don't feel let down, however. Design is great, the display is excellent and there's plenty of power too. Yes, it will be out-performed by any number of handsets, but those are handsets that will cost you twice as much.
We're really impressed with what you get in the Moto G. It's a great handset and no matter what your budget, if you're after a smartphone for daily use, then this phone pretty much does it. It's fast, the display is lovely and the camera will give you some decent shots too. There's also a guarantee that an Android 4.4 update will be delivered in January 2014.
QUICK VERDICT:A great handset for an affordable price, that delivers a fantastic display, good performance, great design and brilliant customising options.
FULL REVIEW: Motorola Moto G review
2. Apple iPhone 5S
With exquisite attention to detail and wonderful design, the iPhone 5S is master of the largest mobile ecosystem around. The design isn't a huge step over the previous edition, but the internal modifications, paired with a new refreshed OS, keeps Apple in the smartphone fight.
The iPhone 5S experience is very refined; it's mature, familiar and intuitive and supported by an App Store that's always first in line for the new apps, while you won't be left waiting for Apple's software updates.
The iPhone 5S sets itself up for future dominance: 64-bit support and a new coprocessor dedicated to handling the motion sensors provide the potential for new directions. The camera is as reliable as ever, with a better flash unit and the addition of a fingerprint scanner provides for easy access.
Great battery life comes with this phone that is slick and fast in operation, it's just a shame that the display is one of the smallest around. At least it won't be making an unsightly bulge in your pocket, even if buying it might make a little hole.
QUICK VERDICT:The new iPhone 5S is an evolution, sticking to great hardware features and providing new grounds for innovative apps over the next year. It might be dwarfed by the hardware options you'll find elsewhere, but it still delivers a premium experience.
FULL REVIEW: iPhone 5S review
LG hasn't had the smoothest run of in the world of modern smartphones, but the LG G2 brings things back into focus. There's heaps of power on offer and a 5.2-inch display crammed into a body that's still fairly compact: LG has banished bezels, so you get more space to play. It's an enormously powerful phone, and is rumoured by some to be the forerunner to the Nexus 5. The point is though, this phone competes brilliantly with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S4 while offering a more "Android" experience, through a slightly less customised UI.
Some have expressed dislike of the rear-mounted buttons, but they make sense when you're in a call and trying to adjust the volume - far more so, at least, than side mounted buttons do. The biggest problem we had was with the camera, which we just weren't all that impressed by. It's good enough, but the SGS4 beats it easily, and the iPhone is streets ahead.
But best of all, the display is outstanding. LCD screens have great detail, and accurate colours that OLED screens can't claim. And the high-quality audio system will blow you away if you plug in some high-quality music, and some decent headphones. What we like most is that LG hasn't just thrown features at the phone. It's thought about what is missing from current phones, and what customers might like to have, and done its best to incorporate those into the phone. We're sold.
QUICK VERDICT:LG has done it. The G2 really is a compelling alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S4 and even the iPhone. We like LG's take on a phone, we think it has thoughtfully and successfully made a handset that does everything we want, without overloading us with features we don't need. If you've after power and a big display, it's the LG G2 you want. We just wish that camera was better.
READ: LG G2 review
3. Motorola Moto G
The Motorola Moto G has taken a lot of people by surprise. We've heard the sentiments plenty of times before: performance at a price, without compromise. Motorola, however, went ahead an got it right. The Moto G is a fantastic smartphone and incredible value for money that's difficult to ignore.
Take the price out of the equation and you don't feel let down, however. Design is great, the display is excellent and there's plenty of power too. Yes, it will be out-performed by any number of handsets, but those are handsets that will cost you twice as much.
We're really impressed with what you get in the Moto G. It's a great handset and no matter what your budget, if you're after a smartphone for daily use, then this phone pretty much does it. It's fast, the display is lovely and the camera will give you some decent shots too. There's also a guarantee that an Android 4.4 update will be delivered in January 2014.
QUICK VERDICT:A great handset for an affordable price, that delivers a fantastic display, good performance, great design and brilliant customising options.
FULL REVIEW: Motorola Moto G review
2. Apple iPhone 5S
With exquisite attention to detail and wonderful design, the iPhone 5S is master of the largest mobile ecosystem around. The design isn't a huge step over the previous edition, but the internal modifications, paired with a new refreshed OS, keeps Apple in the smartphone fight.
The iPhone 5S experience is very refined; it's mature, familiar and intuitive and supported by an App Store that's always first in line for the new apps, while you won't be left waiting for Apple's software updates.
The iPhone 5S sets itself up for future dominance: 64-bit support and a new coprocessor dedicated to handling the motion sensors provide the potential for new directions. The camera is as reliable as ever, with a better flash unit and the addition of a fingerprint scanner provides for easy access.
Great battery life comes with this phone that is slick and fast in operation, it's just a shame that the display is one of the smallest around. At least it won't be making an unsightly bulge in your pocket, even if buying it might make a little hole.
QUICK VERDICT:The new iPhone 5S is an evolution, sticking to great hardware features and providing new grounds for innovative apps over the next year. It might be dwarfed by the hardware options you'll find elsewhere, but it still delivers a premium experience.
FULL REVIEW: iPhone 5S review
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today, lastly release.
4. LG G2
LG hasn't had the smoothest run of in the world of modern smartphones, but the LG G2 brings things back into focus. There's heaps of power on offer and a 5.2-inch display crammed into a body that's still fairly compact: LG has banished bezels, so you get more space to play. It's an enormously powerful phone, and is rumoured by some to be the forerunner to the Nexus 5. The point is though, this phone competes brilliantly with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S4 while offering a more "Android" experience, through a slightly less customised UI.
Some have expressed dislike of the rear-mounted buttons, but they make sense when you're in a call and trying to adjust the volume - far more so, at least, than side mounted buttons do. The biggest problem we had was with the camera, which we just weren't all that impressed by. It's good enough, but the SGS4 beats it easily, and the iPhone is streets ahead.
But best of all, the display is outstanding. LCD screens have great detail, and accurate colours that OLED screens can't claim. And the high-quality audio system will blow you away if you plug in some high-quality music, and some decent headphones. What we like most is that LG hasn't just thrown features at the phone. It's thought about what is missing from current phones, and what customers might like to have, and done its best to incorporate those into the phone. We're sold.
QUICK VERDICT:LG has done it. The G2 really is a compelling alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S4 and even the iPhone. We like LG's take on a phone, we think it has thoughtfully and successfully made a handset that does everything we want, without overloading us with features we don't need. If you've after power and a big display, it's the LG G2 you want. We just wish that camera was better.
READ: LG G2 review
3. Motorola Moto G
The Motorola Moto G has taken a lot of people by surprise. We've heard the sentiments plenty of times before: performance at a price, without compromise. Motorola, however, went ahead an got it right. The Moto G is a fantastic smartphone and incredible value for money that's difficult to ignore.
Take the price out of the equation and you don't feel let down, however. Design is great, the display is excellent and there's plenty of power too. Yes, it will be out-performed by any number of handsets, but those are handsets that will cost you twice as much.
We're really impressed with what you get in the Moto G. It's a great handset and no matter what your budget, if you're after a smartphone for daily use, then this phone pretty much does it. It's fast, the display is lovely and the camera will give you some decent shots too. There's also a guarantee that an Android 4.4 update will be delivered in January 2014.
QUICK VERDICT:A great handset for an affordable price, that delivers a fantastic display, good performance, great design and brilliant customising options.
FULL REVIEW: Motorola Moto G review
2. Apple iPhone 5S
With exquisite attention to detail and wonderful design, the iPhone 5S is master of the largest mobile ecosystem around. The design isn't a huge step over the previous edition, but the internal modifications, paired with a new refreshed OS, keeps Apple in the smartphone fight.
The iPhone 5S experience is very refined; it's mature, familiar and intuitive and supported by an App Store that's always first in line for the new apps, while you won't be left waiting for Apple's software updates.
The iPhone 5S sets itself up for future dominance: 64-bit support and a new coprocessor dedicated to handling the motion sensors provide the potential for new directions. The camera is as reliable as ever, with a better flash unit and the addition of a fingerprint scanner provides for easy access.
Great battery life comes with this phone that is slick and fast in operation, it's just a shame that the display is one of the smallest around. At least it won't be making an unsightly bulge in your pocket, even if buying it might make a little hole.
QUICK VERDICT:The new iPhone 5S is an evolution, sticking to great hardware features and providing new grounds for innovative apps over the next year. It might be dwarfed by the hardware options you'll find elsewhere, but it still delivers a premium experience.
FULL REVIEW: iPhone 5S review
LG hasn't had the smoothest run of in the world of modern smartphones, but the LG G2 brings things back into focus. There's heaps of power on offer and a 5.2-inch display crammed into a body that's still fairly compact: LG has banished bezels, so you get more space to play. It's an enormously powerful phone, and is rumoured by some to be the forerunner to the Nexus 5. The point is though, this phone competes brilliantly with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S4 while offering a more "Android" experience, through a slightly less customised UI.
Some have expressed dislike of the rear-mounted buttons, but they make sense when you're in a call and trying to adjust the volume - far more so, at least, than side mounted buttons do. The biggest problem we had was with the camera, which we just weren't all that impressed by. It's good enough, but the SGS4 beats it easily, and the iPhone is streets ahead.
But best of all, the display is outstanding. LCD screens have great detail, and accurate colours that OLED screens can't claim. And the high-quality audio system will blow you away if you plug in some high-quality music, and some decent headphones. What we like most is that LG hasn't just thrown features at the phone. It's thought about what is missing from current phones, and what customers might like to have, and done its best to incorporate those into the phone. We're sold.
QUICK VERDICT:LG has done it. The G2 really is a compelling alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S4 and even the iPhone. We like LG's take on a phone, we think it has thoughtfully and successfully made a handset that does everything we want, without overloading us with features we don't need. If you've after power and a big display, it's the LG G2 you want. We just wish that camera was better.
READ: LG G2 review
3. Motorola Moto G
The Motorola Moto G has taken a lot of people by surprise. We've heard the sentiments plenty of times before: performance at a price, without compromise. Motorola, however, went ahead an got it right. The Moto G is a fantastic smartphone and incredible value for money that's difficult to ignore.
Take the price out of the equation and you don't feel let down, however. Design is great, the display is excellent and there's plenty of power too. Yes, it will be out-performed by any number of handsets, but those are handsets that will cost you twice as much.
We're really impressed with what you get in the Moto G. It's a great handset and no matter what your budget, if you're after a smartphone for daily use, then this phone pretty much does it. It's fast, the display is lovely and the camera will give you some decent shots too. There's also a guarantee that an Android 4.4 update will be delivered in January 2014.
QUICK VERDICT:A great handset for an affordable price, that delivers a fantastic display, good performance, great design and brilliant customising options.
FULL REVIEW: Motorola Moto G review
2. Apple iPhone 5S
With exquisite attention to detail and wonderful design, the iPhone 5S is master of the largest mobile ecosystem around. The design isn't a huge step over the previous edition, but the internal modifications, paired with a new refreshed OS, keeps Apple in the smartphone fight.
The iPhone 5S experience is very refined; it's mature, familiar and intuitive and supported by an App Store that's always first in line for the new apps, while you won't be left waiting for Apple's software updates.
The iPhone 5S sets itself up for future dominance: 64-bit support and a new coprocessor dedicated to handling the motion sensors provide the potential for new directions. The camera is as reliable as ever, with a better flash unit and the addition of a fingerprint scanner provides for easy access.
Great battery life comes with this phone that is slick and fast in operation, it's just a shame that the display is one of the smallest around. At least it won't be making an unsightly bulge in your pocket, even if buying it might make a little hole.
QUICK VERDICT:The new iPhone 5S is an evolution, sticking to great hardware features and providing new grounds for innovative apps over the next year. It might be dwarfed by the hardware options you'll find elsewhere, but it still delivers a premium experience.
FULL REVIEW: iPhone 5S review
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today, forth release.
8. Nokia Lumia 1520
The Nokia Lumia 1520 is the best Lumia to date. It brings Windows Phone into the realm of the phablet, but it does it with aplomb, giving you a device that offers size, power and a great camera performance.
Nokia's commitment to the platform, dragging apps - kicking and screaming - over to Windows Phone really enhances what's on offer, but also pouring home-grown features in too.
We've been critical of some of the moves of Windows Phone, and of Nokia, in the recent past, but the Lumia 1520 feels like the hero device that Nokia needed. It's powerful, it's wonderful to use and it's the rival of Android peers the rule the big-screen phone world.
QUICK VERDICT:This is the best Nokia Lumia to date and certainly the best Windows Phone. That's owed to the new Windows Phone 8.1 OS, a stunning camera and accompanying apps, a fast user experience, amazing blacks on a fantastic screen that does well in daylight, a strong battery life, and the updated Glance screen.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 1520 review
7. Nexus 5
The Nexus 5 plays out the pure Google dream, debuting Android 4.4 KitKat and bringing you plenty of power for your money. There's also a brilliant display, which gives you plenty of detail and performance to rival some of the top phones out there.
There are downsides, however. We don't think it's the best designed phone around, perhaps less interesting than the Nexus 4 which came before it and as is typical of Nexus devices, the camera isn't so good and neither is the battery.
However, the Nexus 5 delivers plenty in it's reasonably priced package, especially if power and display are top of your list and you have the reassurance of knowing you'll be at the front of the Android upgrade queue too. For some, however, the refinement added by other manufacturers will bring attractive features out of the box that the Nexus 5 lacks.
QUICK VERDICT:The Nexus 5 delivers some great hardware at a price that's difficult to beat, along with the latest Android software which brings some new treats. The camera isn't the best around and the battery doesn't really excel, leaving space for other flagship devices to thrive.
FULL REVIEW: Google Nexus 5 review
6. Samsung Galaxy S4
The Samsung Galaxy S4 brings more innovation to a phone that's already at the top of its game. The design offers flexibility where others don't with access to the battery and the option to expand the memory via microSD.
Some may say that there's a feature too many and the design isn't as inspiring as some other devices like the HTC One, but if you opt for the Samsung Galaxy S4, you won't be disappointed. Samsung crams a large 5-inch Full HD display into a handset that isn't overly large, so despite going large, the size is still manageable.
Undoubted the Samsung Galaxy S4 will be the top smartphone choice for many, but recent launches bring more raw power. The Samsung Galaxy S4 will handle anything you throw at it, and beautifully so, but those looking for more power might be tempted by the LG G2.
QUICK VERDICT:We love it, honestly. The new design might look the same as the old, but it isn't. New, more squared-off sides mean it feels nicer than the old model, and it's got so many new features that it's impossible not to love some of them. Battery life is still a major issue for Samsung though, and that's a big deal for most users.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S4 review
5. Samsung Galaxy Note 3
The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 takes the format and continues to refine it. In this 2013 model, there's a cracking 5.7-inch display offering a 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, giving you 386ppi. It's packed into a frame that measures 151.2 x 79.2 x 8.3mm, making it one of the most compact devices with such an expansive display.
Some might not like the faux leather back, but you can peel that off and swap it out: as well as access the internals to expand the storage or change the battery.
There's plenty of power, thanks to the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 chipset and 3GB of RAM, meaning that everything is slick and smooth. Samsung hasn't ignored the screen space on offer, giving you innovative features through the S Pen to help keep you productive.
You get a lot with the Note 3, but it's also going to cost you a lot at £599. Arguably you can get bigger displays for the same money, but in the Note 3 the blend just feels right. It might be just too big for some.
QUICK VERDICT:There will be some who will dismiss this phone out of hand for being too big. Those people are silly, and will never know what they are missing. The Note 3 is a diamond in the rough, a phone that doesn't just follow that pack, but leads it shouting, "Come on you dozy slowcoaches, at least try to keep up". It has instantly become our go-to Android phone, and will remain so until the Note 4, no doubt.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy Note 3 review
The Nokia Lumia 1520 is the best Lumia to date. It brings Windows Phone into the realm of the phablet, but it does it with aplomb, giving you a device that offers size, power and a great camera performance.
Nokia's commitment to the platform, dragging apps - kicking and screaming - over to Windows Phone really enhances what's on offer, but also pouring home-grown features in too.
We've been critical of some of the moves of Windows Phone, and of Nokia, in the recent past, but the Lumia 1520 feels like the hero device that Nokia needed. It's powerful, it's wonderful to use and it's the rival of Android peers the rule the big-screen phone world.
QUICK VERDICT:This is the best Nokia Lumia to date and certainly the best Windows Phone. That's owed to the new Windows Phone 8.1 OS, a stunning camera and accompanying apps, a fast user experience, amazing blacks on a fantastic screen that does well in daylight, a strong battery life, and the updated Glance screen.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 1520 review
7. Nexus 5
The Nexus 5 plays out the pure Google dream, debuting Android 4.4 KitKat and bringing you plenty of power for your money. There's also a brilliant display, which gives you plenty of detail and performance to rival some of the top phones out there.
There are downsides, however. We don't think it's the best designed phone around, perhaps less interesting than the Nexus 4 which came before it and as is typical of Nexus devices, the camera isn't so good and neither is the battery.
However, the Nexus 5 delivers plenty in it's reasonably priced package, especially if power and display are top of your list and you have the reassurance of knowing you'll be at the front of the Android upgrade queue too. For some, however, the refinement added by other manufacturers will bring attractive features out of the box that the Nexus 5 lacks.
QUICK VERDICT:The Nexus 5 delivers some great hardware at a price that's difficult to beat, along with the latest Android software which brings some new treats. The camera isn't the best around and the battery doesn't really excel, leaving space for other flagship devices to thrive.
FULL REVIEW: Google Nexus 5 review
6. Samsung Galaxy S4
The Samsung Galaxy S4 brings more innovation to a phone that's already at the top of its game. The design offers flexibility where others don't with access to the battery and the option to expand the memory via microSD.
Some may say that there's a feature too many and the design isn't as inspiring as some other devices like the HTC One, but if you opt for the Samsung Galaxy S4, you won't be disappointed. Samsung crams a large 5-inch Full HD display into a handset that isn't overly large, so despite going large, the size is still manageable.
Undoubted the Samsung Galaxy S4 will be the top smartphone choice for many, but recent launches bring more raw power. The Samsung Galaxy S4 will handle anything you throw at it, and beautifully so, but those looking for more power might be tempted by the LG G2.
QUICK VERDICT:We love it, honestly. The new design might look the same as the old, but it isn't. New, more squared-off sides mean it feels nicer than the old model, and it's got so many new features that it's impossible not to love some of them. Battery life is still a major issue for Samsung though, and that's a big deal for most users.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S4 review
5. Samsung Galaxy Note 3
The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 takes the format and continues to refine it. In this 2013 model, there's a cracking 5.7-inch display offering a 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, giving you 386ppi. It's packed into a frame that measures 151.2 x 79.2 x 8.3mm, making it one of the most compact devices with such an expansive display.
Some might not like the faux leather back, but you can peel that off and swap it out: as well as access the internals to expand the storage or change the battery.
There's plenty of power, thanks to the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 chipset and 3GB of RAM, meaning that everything is slick and smooth. Samsung hasn't ignored the screen space on offer, giving you innovative features through the S Pen to help keep you productive.
You get a lot with the Note 3, but it's also going to cost you a lot at £599. Arguably you can get bigger displays for the same money, but in the Note 3 the blend just feels right. It might be just too big for some.
QUICK VERDICT:There will be some who will dismiss this phone out of hand for being too big. Those people are silly, and will never know what they are missing. The Note 3 is a diamond in the rough, a phone that doesn't just follow that pack, but leads it shouting, "Come on you dozy slowcoaches, at least try to keep up". It has instantly become our go-to Android phone, and will remain so until the Note 4, no doubt.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy Note 3 review
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today, third release.
12. Sony Xperia Z1
The Sony Xperia Z1 refreshes the excellent Sony Xperia Z, bringing you a powerful handset, with waterproofing, a slick design and a large 5-inch display.
On paper the Z1 sounds like it will be king of all classes, but the boosting of the battery and the accommodation of a 20-megapixel camera, swells the body to larger than its rivals, with a bigger footprint than the Samsung Galaxy S4 and the LG G2, but note quite reaching into phablet territory. But if you can handle the size there are plenty of treats in store.
It's a veritable powerhouse, with great internal hardware, so everything is slick and fast. The waterproofed 3.5mm headphone jack is now more convenient than the original Xperia Z, but the previous phone is smaller and getting cheaper, so is definitely worth considering.
QUICK VERDICT:Sony has created a powerful and good-quality device in the Xperia Z1. It hits all the high points on the spec sheet, but that doesn't always lead to the best results.
FULL REVIEW: Sony Xperia Z1 review
11. Samsung Galaxy S4 Active
Where the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active wins is in offering an experience that's really close to the Samsung Galaxy S4, in a slightly cheaper but water-resistant package. That takes the pains out of dropping your phone in the toilet and gives you more freedom to use your device in all conditions.
There's plenty of power and an impressive Full HD display, meaning that despite having something that's resistant to the elements, it won't cause a huge bulge in your pocket. Then there's all the customisation and all the features brought by Samsung's TouchWiz.
Some might not like the rugged looks, or the move to hardware buttons, but for those who want to get dirty with their phone, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active is a natural choice. The Xperia Z1 is more powerful, but the Galaxy S4 Active makes better use of space, so it's more comfortable to use day to day.
QUICK VERDICT:The Samsung Galaxy S4 Active is a great handset, offering a flagship smartphone experience in a device that's happy to take a dunking in the bath. If you're accident prone or are always getting caught in the rain, then this is a viable alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S4.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S4 Active review
10. Samsung Galaxy Note 2
The Samsung Galaxy Note has taken the smartphone world by storm, crossing the divide between tablets and smartphones.
It might be too large for some, but the 5.5-inch display gives you room to play, without being too big for your pocket. Samsung's innovative features will help you get the most out of the size on offer from the Samsung Galaxy Note 2.
There's a stylus which might be more popular with those who prefer to note down things in writing, but you can equally just leave the stylus in place and never use it, if it's the larger display that you're after. It's big and beautiful, and far from stupid. However, with the Note 3 recently announced and soon to be launched, we'd expect to see this model tumble in price, but be bettered by its replacement.
QUICK VERDICT:We're in love. This phone may seem wildly illogical, but those fabulous Koreans have somehow managed to create a device that offers so much more than a smaller phone and almost makes tablets pointless. This phone won't be for everyone, but for us it's one of the best Android devices money can buy.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy Note 2 review
9. Sony Xperia Z
The Sony Xperia Z offers a great design package that's distinctly different. Sony may have revised the Xperia Z with the Z1 and the new device is certainly more powerful. However, falling prices mean that Xperia Z is increasingly affordable.
Sony's take on Android is lighter than ever before, resulting in a device that doesn't feel inhibited, while still bringing plenty of power. We love that even though this handset is water resistant, you still get the option to expand the memory.
There's a huge 5-inch Full HD display on the front, and although it's not as accomplished as that of the HTC One or Samsung Galaxy S4, it's still a pleasure to use. A great device from Sony.
QUICK VERDICT:The Xperia Z combines sharp design with a great display, sensible software tweaks and attention to battery life. It might be out-classed in the specs department by it's Z1 brother, but here you get great design in a more compact package at a cheaper price.
FULL REVIEW: Sony Xperia Z reviewed
The Sony Xperia Z1 refreshes the excellent Sony Xperia Z, bringing you a powerful handset, with waterproofing, a slick design and a large 5-inch display.
On paper the Z1 sounds like it will be king of all classes, but the boosting of the battery and the accommodation of a 20-megapixel camera, swells the body to larger than its rivals, with a bigger footprint than the Samsung Galaxy S4 and the LG G2, but note quite reaching into phablet territory. But if you can handle the size there are plenty of treats in store.
It's a veritable powerhouse, with great internal hardware, so everything is slick and fast. The waterproofed 3.5mm headphone jack is now more convenient than the original Xperia Z, but the previous phone is smaller and getting cheaper, so is definitely worth considering.
QUICK VERDICT:Sony has created a powerful and good-quality device in the Xperia Z1. It hits all the high points on the spec sheet, but that doesn't always lead to the best results.
FULL REVIEW: Sony Xperia Z1 review
11. Samsung Galaxy S4 Active
Where the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active wins is in offering an experience that's really close to the Samsung Galaxy S4, in a slightly cheaper but water-resistant package. That takes the pains out of dropping your phone in the toilet and gives you more freedom to use your device in all conditions.
There's plenty of power and an impressive Full HD display, meaning that despite having something that's resistant to the elements, it won't cause a huge bulge in your pocket. Then there's all the customisation and all the features brought by Samsung's TouchWiz.
Some might not like the rugged looks, or the move to hardware buttons, but for those who want to get dirty with their phone, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active is a natural choice. The Xperia Z1 is more powerful, but the Galaxy S4 Active makes better use of space, so it's more comfortable to use day to day.
QUICK VERDICT:The Samsung Galaxy S4 Active is a great handset, offering a flagship smartphone experience in a device that's happy to take a dunking in the bath. If you're accident prone or are always getting caught in the rain, then this is a viable alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S4.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S4 Active review
10. Samsung Galaxy Note 2
The Samsung Galaxy Note has taken the smartphone world by storm, crossing the divide between tablets and smartphones.
It might be too large for some, but the 5.5-inch display gives you room to play, without being too big for your pocket. Samsung's innovative features will help you get the most out of the size on offer from the Samsung Galaxy Note 2.
There's a stylus which might be more popular with those who prefer to note down things in writing, but you can equally just leave the stylus in place and never use it, if it's the larger display that you're after. It's big and beautiful, and far from stupid. However, with the Note 3 recently announced and soon to be launched, we'd expect to see this model tumble in price, but be bettered by its replacement.
QUICK VERDICT:We're in love. This phone may seem wildly illogical, but those fabulous Koreans have somehow managed to create a device that offers so much more than a smaller phone and almost makes tablets pointless. This phone won't be for everyone, but for us it's one of the best Android devices money can buy.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy Note 2 review
9. Sony Xperia Z
The Sony Xperia Z offers a great design package that's distinctly different. Sony may have revised the Xperia Z with the Z1 and the new device is certainly more powerful. However, falling prices mean that Xperia Z is increasingly affordable.
Sony's take on Android is lighter than ever before, resulting in a device that doesn't feel inhibited, while still bringing plenty of power. We love that even though this handset is water resistant, you still get the option to expand the memory.
There's a huge 5-inch Full HD display on the front, and although it's not as accomplished as that of the HTC One or Samsung Galaxy S4, it's still a pleasure to use. A great device from Sony.
QUICK VERDICT:The Xperia Z combines sharp design with a great display, sensible software tweaks and attention to battery life. It might be out-classed in the specs department by it's Z1 brother, but here you get great design in a more compact package at a cheaper price.
FULL REVIEW: Sony Xperia Z reviewed
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today. second release
16. HTC One mini
The HTC One mini offers the lovely design of the HTC One, but doesn't stop there. It has a cracking 4.3-inch 720p display that's very capable and enough grunt under the hood to cope with pretty much everything you want to do with your phone on a day-to-day basis, but won't match the top handsets for sheer power.
The HTC One mini takes a hit on the spec sheet, but offers the same UltraPixel camera of the HTC One, along with all the smart functions like Zoe and the highlight videos that bring your photography to life.
It's all wrapped into a nice mature bundle by HTC Sense 5 making for a mini experience that's really enjoyable.
QUICK VERDICT:The HTC One mini is a great Android smartphone. The design and build are outstanding, the user experience offered by HTC Sense 5 is commendable and the step back into mid-range specs isn't hugely to the phone's detriment.
FULL REVIEW: HTC One mini review
15. Motorola Moto X
Motorola has been in this business a long time and although it doesn't launch as aggressively as rivals like Samsung, there's still a great feeling of quality when you get your hands on the latest Motorola phone, the Moto X.
The Moto X doesn't go up against the flagship phones out there on the spec sheet, but it still delivers the essentials. The dual-core processor offers plenty of power, partnered with 2GB of RAM and the 4.7-inch display offers plenty of space to play, even if the resolution is a notch down at 720p. What you do get, however, is the option to customise the exterior of your phone, so you can design it to suit your own style with a choice of 252 different colour combinations.
The software offers a blend of Android Jelly Bean with a range of Motorola tweaks, which we think get the balance just about right. It's all you want of Android and not too heavily drawn off into unnecessary customisation. There's a generous 2,200mAh battery, that will see this phone outlasting some rivals. It might have some mid-range specs, but it delivers an experience that impresses.
QUICK VERDICT:Priced at $199 (£124) on contract there are plenty of other similar-priced options out there such as the HTC One that bury the Moto X under mightier specs. But even so, and while it's not quite to that level, we've really enjoyed adopting the Moto X. It's smart and still powerful enough - plus it avoids too much bloatware as per the Samsung Galaxy S4. Motorola's customisation options will also tick the box for some - we think they're cool - and that gives this phone that middle-ground appeal that nothing else in the market has. It's not perfect, but we do rather like it.
FULL REVIEW: Motorola Moto X review
14. Nokia Lumia 925
The Nokia Lumia 925 rights the wrongs of the Lumia 920, while delivering much of the same goodness. Great design in a nice, slim, handset, brings together the best of Nokia and the best of Windows Phone 8.
The 4.7-inch display looks great, there are plenty of extras that have been added by Nokia and this phone also offers some of the latest upgrades to Windows Phone too. There are still some key apps missing, but if you're after a Windows Phone, the Lumia 925 is the handset it get.
QUICK VERDICT:The Nokia Lumia 925 is the best Windows Phone 8 handset you can buy, combining great design with plenty of additional enhancements from Nokia. There are still some ecosystem woes standing against WP8 and the closeness to the Lumia 920 and Nokia's next new phone might cause some to hold off committing to the 925 right away.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 925 review
13. Apple iPhone 5C
The iPhone 5C is Apple's "colourful" handset. It takes the innards of 2012's iPhone 5, adds a touch more 4G compatibility and a slightly improved battery life and wraps it in a colourful plastic casing.
Originally perceived as the "cheap" handset for those who couldn't afford the iPhone 5S, which offers better performance all round, the iPhone 5C still offers a great Apple experience, with access to everything the App Store has in offer. It lacks, slightly, because it doesn't have quite the same potential as the 5S and it could be seen as more expensive than it should be, given the older specs and plastic body.
However, for many, the iPhone 5C will offer a great choice of handset. It might not have the large display of some of the mid-range Android stars, but you still get a great experience.
QUICK VERDICT:As an upgrade to the iPhone 4S, the 5C is a perfect consideration, as it's an iPhone 5 refresh that makes it more fresh and fun than the original 5 ever was. But if you're after best of the best then only the also-released 5S will cut it.
FULL REVIEW: Apple iPhone 5C review
The HTC One mini offers the lovely design of the HTC One, but doesn't stop there. It has a cracking 4.3-inch 720p display that's very capable and enough grunt under the hood to cope with pretty much everything you want to do with your phone on a day-to-day basis, but won't match the top handsets for sheer power.
The HTC One mini takes a hit on the spec sheet, but offers the same UltraPixel camera of the HTC One, along with all the smart functions like Zoe and the highlight videos that bring your photography to life.
It's all wrapped into a nice mature bundle by HTC Sense 5 making for a mini experience that's really enjoyable.
QUICK VERDICT:The HTC One mini is a great Android smartphone. The design and build are outstanding, the user experience offered by HTC Sense 5 is commendable and the step back into mid-range specs isn't hugely to the phone's detriment.
FULL REVIEW: HTC One mini review
15. Motorola Moto X
Motorola has been in this business a long time and although it doesn't launch as aggressively as rivals like Samsung, there's still a great feeling of quality when you get your hands on the latest Motorola phone, the Moto X.
The Moto X doesn't go up against the flagship phones out there on the spec sheet, but it still delivers the essentials. The dual-core processor offers plenty of power, partnered with 2GB of RAM and the 4.7-inch display offers plenty of space to play, even if the resolution is a notch down at 720p. What you do get, however, is the option to customise the exterior of your phone, so you can design it to suit your own style with a choice of 252 different colour combinations.
The software offers a blend of Android Jelly Bean with a range of Motorola tweaks, which we think get the balance just about right. It's all you want of Android and not too heavily drawn off into unnecessary customisation. There's a generous 2,200mAh battery, that will see this phone outlasting some rivals. It might have some mid-range specs, but it delivers an experience that impresses.
QUICK VERDICT:Priced at $199 (£124) on contract there are plenty of other similar-priced options out there such as the HTC One that bury the Moto X under mightier specs. But even so, and while it's not quite to that level, we've really enjoyed adopting the Moto X. It's smart and still powerful enough - plus it avoids too much bloatware as per the Samsung Galaxy S4. Motorola's customisation options will also tick the box for some - we think they're cool - and that gives this phone that middle-ground appeal that nothing else in the market has. It's not perfect, but we do rather like it.
FULL REVIEW: Motorola Moto X review
14. Nokia Lumia 925
The Nokia Lumia 925 rights the wrongs of the Lumia 920, while delivering much of the same goodness. Great design in a nice, slim, handset, brings together the best of Nokia and the best of Windows Phone 8.
The 4.7-inch display looks great, there are plenty of extras that have been added by Nokia and this phone also offers some of the latest upgrades to Windows Phone too. There are still some key apps missing, but if you're after a Windows Phone, the Lumia 925 is the handset it get.
QUICK VERDICT:The Nokia Lumia 925 is the best Windows Phone 8 handset you can buy, combining great design with plenty of additional enhancements from Nokia. There are still some ecosystem woes standing against WP8 and the closeness to the Lumia 920 and Nokia's next new phone might cause some to hold off committing to the 925 right away.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 925 review
13. Apple iPhone 5C
The iPhone 5C is Apple's "colourful" handset. It takes the innards of 2012's iPhone 5, adds a touch more 4G compatibility and a slightly improved battery life and wraps it in a colourful plastic casing.
Originally perceived as the "cheap" handset for those who couldn't afford the iPhone 5S, which offers better performance all round, the iPhone 5C still offers a great Apple experience, with access to everything the App Store has in offer. It lacks, slightly, because it doesn't have quite the same potential as the 5S and it could be seen as more expensive than it should be, given the older specs and plastic body.
However, for many, the iPhone 5C will offer a great choice of handset. It might not have the large display of some of the mid-range Android stars, but you still get a great experience.
QUICK VERDICT:As an upgrade to the iPhone 4S, the 5C is a perfect consideration, as it's an iPhone 5 refresh that makes it more fresh and fun than the original 5 ever was. But if you're after best of the best then only the also-released 5S will cut it.
FULL REVIEW: Apple iPhone 5C review
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today.
Best smartphones 2013: The best phones available to buy today.
So, you want to buy a new phone? If you're looking for the best smartphone of 2013, you've come to the right place. We will guide you through the hottest mobile phones of the year to save you time when you go to your local phone shop. We've updated our Best smartphones 2013 feature to reflect recent launches, with a new Nexus launch, Nokia going from strength to strength and a strong entry from Motorola.
Things are changing fast in the world of smartphones: slashed prices, ever-improving hardware and refreshed handsets arriving every few months means that things never stand still.
Our list of 19 great handsets covers all operating systems, all sizes, and prices, so you'll be armed with everything you need when choosing to buy your next smartphone. We'll be regularly updating this feature with the latest and greatest smartphones we review, so you can see where the smart money is heading.
Let us know what you think is the best smartphone in the comments below.
19. Nokia Lumia 620
The Nokia Lumia 620 earns its place by delivering that Windows Phone experience without costing the earth. That's right, this budget WinPhone really delivers value for money while still retaining great design and build quality. It's getting a little old now, however, but it's still great value for money.
Of course some compromises have been made on the spec sheet to hit the low price point, but the Nokia Lumia 620 is a great performer for those looking for smartphone performance in a compact package. Consider this a great choice for your first smartphone.
QUICK VERDICT:The Lumia 620 has none of the problems of Nokia's 920 (size, high cost) and the 820 (high cost) but is a lovely, charming and pleasant phone to use. It might be a little small for some, especially those with bigger hands, but we had no problem with our above average sized hands.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 620 review
18. Nokia Lumia 1020
Nokia is chasing two things in smartphones: the best Windows Phone experience it can create and the best camera. If those align with your own needs, then the Nokia Lumia 1020 might be the perfect phone for you.
The highlight is a very capable PureView camera on the back that brings options you simply don't get elsewhere in the smartphone world: it's a great performer. The compromise you have to accept however, is that this is a big phone, especially compared to Nokia's "other" flagship, the Lumia 925, which we think is a better option for the average user. The Nokia Lumia 1020 also struggles with battery life if you're using the camera a lot and can get hot when in use.
In many areas, the Lumia 1020 offers the same experience as the Lumia 925, with Windows Phone offering a great alternative to Android or iOS. There are still some holes in the app ecosystem, but Nokia is doing more than any manufacturer to plug them.
QUICK VERDICT:By far the best cameraphone on the market by a long shot. What's more, the 1020 can compete - at least to some degree - with cheaper compact cameras. Sure, there are some flaws, and Windows Phone still needs to develop as an operating system, but as things stand, this is a technological marvel, and a solid phone too.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 1020 review
17. Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
The Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini continues Samsung's trend to capitalising on a successful handset name. It's not a mini in the sense that it matches the specs, but in design and to some extent experience. There was a time that "mini" was "lesser" but with the latest wave of devices, the mid-range is more appealing than ever.
Samsung's customisation brings a huge change over Android, packing it with useful features and options. The display is great, if not quite matching the sharpness of the HTC One mini, but here you have the advantage of microSD card expansion and access to the battery, should you wish to swap it on a busy day.
With plenty of power under the hood, slick design and all that software innovation, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini is cheaper and more compact than it's bigger brother, but still delivers a great smartphone experience.
QUICK VERDICT:All things considered, we really fell for the Mini. It's a powerful and well-designed phone that does everything you need in a nice compact device. It's still expensive, but it's a phone that will serve you well for a couple of years, assuming storage isn't an issue.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini review
So, you want to buy a new phone? If you're looking for the best smartphone of 2013, you've come to the right place. We will guide you through the hottest mobile phones of the year to save you time when you go to your local phone shop. We've updated our Best smartphones 2013 feature to reflect recent launches, with a new Nexus launch, Nokia going from strength to strength and a strong entry from Motorola.
Things are changing fast in the world of smartphones: slashed prices, ever-improving hardware and refreshed handsets arriving every few months means that things never stand still.
Our list of 19 great handsets covers all operating systems, all sizes, and prices, so you'll be armed with everything you need when choosing to buy your next smartphone. We'll be regularly updating this feature with the latest and greatest smartphones we review, so you can see where the smart money is heading.
Let us know what you think is the best smartphone in the comments below.
19. Nokia Lumia 620
The Nokia Lumia 620 earns its place by delivering that Windows Phone experience without costing the earth. That's right, this budget WinPhone really delivers value for money while still retaining great design and build quality. It's getting a little old now, however, but it's still great value for money.
Of course some compromises have been made on the spec sheet to hit the low price point, but the Nokia Lumia 620 is a great performer for those looking for smartphone performance in a compact package. Consider this a great choice for your first smartphone.
QUICK VERDICT:The Lumia 620 has none of the problems of Nokia's 920 (size, high cost) and the 820 (high cost) but is a lovely, charming and pleasant phone to use. It might be a little small for some, especially those with bigger hands, but we had no problem with our above average sized hands.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 620 review
18. Nokia Lumia 1020
Nokia is chasing two things in smartphones: the best Windows Phone experience it can create and the best camera. If those align with your own needs, then the Nokia Lumia 1020 might be the perfect phone for you.
The highlight is a very capable PureView camera on the back that brings options you simply don't get elsewhere in the smartphone world: it's a great performer. The compromise you have to accept however, is that this is a big phone, especially compared to Nokia's "other" flagship, the Lumia 925, which we think is a better option for the average user. The Nokia Lumia 1020 also struggles with battery life if you're using the camera a lot and can get hot when in use.
In many areas, the Lumia 1020 offers the same experience as the Lumia 925, with Windows Phone offering a great alternative to Android or iOS. There are still some holes in the app ecosystem, but Nokia is doing more than any manufacturer to plug them.
QUICK VERDICT:By far the best cameraphone on the market by a long shot. What's more, the 1020 can compete - at least to some degree - with cheaper compact cameras. Sure, there are some flaws, and Windows Phone still needs to develop as an operating system, but as things stand, this is a technological marvel, and a solid phone too.
FULL REVIEW: Nokia Lumia 1020 review
17. Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
The Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini continues Samsung's trend to capitalising on a successful handset name. It's not a mini in the sense that it matches the specs, but in design and to some extent experience. There was a time that "mini" was "lesser" but with the latest wave of devices, the mid-range is more appealing than ever.
Samsung's customisation brings a huge change over Android, packing it with useful features and options. The display is great, if not quite matching the sharpness of the HTC One mini, but here you have the advantage of microSD card expansion and access to the battery, should you wish to swap it on a busy day.
With plenty of power under the hood, slick design and all that software innovation, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini is cheaper and more compact than it's bigger brother, but still delivers a great smartphone experience.
QUICK VERDICT:All things considered, we really fell for the Mini. It's a powerful and well-designed phone that does everything you need in a nice compact device. It's still expensive, but it's a phone that will serve you well for a couple of years, assuming storage isn't an issue.
FULL REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini review
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