Why “Quagmire” Is the Perfect Word for Modern Business—and How to Avoid Getting Stuck at All Costs

America at the Crossroads: Are We Ready to Ask Hard Questions?

America is standing at a crossroads, and the time for action is now. For too long, we’ve skirted the most uncomfortable questions about what’s wrong in our country. Government leaders have evaded them because they’re politically costly. Mainstream media has sidestepped them because nuance doesn’t sell. But the cracks are widening, and the cost of silence is becoming unbearable.

Government Efficiency Isn’t a Dirty Word—It’s Stewardship

Government inefficiency is characteristic of entrenched bureaucracy.

The Importance of Resilience in Business

In today’s volatile business environment, resilience isn’t just a desirable trait—it’s a transformative survival skill that can inspire and motivate. Markets shift overnight, technology disrupts entire industries, and global crises can upend even the most carefully laid plans. Resilience empowers businesses and leaders not only to adapt but also to transform, recover, and thrive in the face of uncertainty.

“Crap Shoot” in Business: Origins and Applications

The phrase “crap shoot” originates from the gambling game craps, where players roll dice and outcomes depend entirely on chance. The term evolved into a metaphor for situations where results are unpredictable and largely outside one’s control. In business, this concept resonates deeply because many high-stakes decisions involve uncertainty despite careful planning.

How Pronounced is State-funded Chaos in the USA?

The concept of state-funded chaos in the United States can be interpreted in several ways; however, historically, it most often refers to instances where government actions—whether intentional or due to dysfunction—have led to widespread disruption, instability, or erosion of public trust. Government actions are directly to the benefit of the government apparatus and against the best interests of the people.

What Sparks Real Change? The Psychology Behind Life’s Turning Points

What is the Spark in One’s Life that Causes them to Make Significant Changes in their Life for the Better?

That pivotal moment or “spark” that causes someone to make significant life changes for the better often stems from a personal crisis, a profound realization, or a transformative experience. While the catalyst varies from person to person, here are some common types of events that tend to trigger such shifts:

The U.S. Electric Vehicle (EV) Market is hitting a Rough Patch, and the Reasons are Clear:

The expiration of federal tax credits, high upfront costs, and persistent infrastructure gaps have triggered a sharp slowdown in demand. The Impact of these factors is not to be underestimated, as they have significantly altered the market dynamics. Social engineering only works when it continues to manipulate the public into thinking they are gaining benefits and preferential treatment. Once reality sets in that the benefits were only temporary, then the business adjusts back to market-driven economics.

Why We Should Accept Nothing at Face Value from the Mainstream Media

Because of its persistent—and often subtle—use of propaganda techniques to sway public opinion

“It Costs an Arm and a Leg:” The Real Story Behind The Phrase

We all know the phrase: “That costs an arm and a leg!” It screams expensive—but where did it come from? Let’s bust the myths and trace its real evolution.

Kermit the Frog: The Iconic Muppet Known for His Gentle Wisdom, Quirky Humor, and Heartfelt Optimism.

Famous Lines from Kermit the Frog: Wisdom from a Green Icon

Forrest Gump: The Simple Sentences That Made a Film Immortal

And these simple sentences resonate in our lives when we experience Forrest Gump moments.

How Federal Legislative Laws and Regulations Get Written (with Industry Examples)

Most laws don’t start as polished statutes. They begin as ideas—often from outside the legislature—and are translated into precise legal text by nonpartisan attorneys employed by the legislature, with heavy input from members’ staff and stakeholders. While lobbyists and advocacy groups cannot introduce legislation themselves, they do play a significant role in shaping the language that ends up on paper.

How Does Search Engine Optimization Work?

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving a website’s visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs) to attract more organic (non-paid) traffic.

Becoming a Self-Starter: How to Build Intrinsic Motivation That Lasts

In a world obsessed with hacks and external rewards, the real differentiator isn’t a bigger carrot or a sharper stick’s intrinsic motivation. Self-starters don’t wait for permission or pressure; they act because they want to, not because they must. The good news? This isn’t a personality trait you’re born with. It’s a skill you can develop.

Why Mutual Trust, Respect, and Cooperation Is Breaking Down—and What’s Driving It

California Mental Health Brief: Reforms, Capacity, and What to Watch (2025–2026)

SB-410: Strengthening Safety and Transparency in Common Interest Developments-Quick Read

How Many 1960s and 1970s Songs Have Deeper, More Meaningful Messages?

Music, like mathematics, is a universal language.

The Bureaucratic Company Merry-Go-Round: Urgent Need to Address Individual Responsibility Deflection that Paralyzes Organizations

Entrenched bureaucracy and the deflection of individual responsibility are systemic issues that plague both public and private institutions. This paper examines how these dynamics contribute to organizational paralysis, utilizing real-world case studies to illustrate the consequences. It explores the structural and cultural origins of responsibility avoidance and proposes targeted reforms to restore accountability and operational effectiveness.

Driving the Bus: Origin, Meaning, and Cultural Significance- Expanded Version

Language thrives on metaphors, and few are as vivid as “Driving the Bus.” This phrase has become a staple in business, sports, and even psychology, symbolizing leadership and control. But where did it originate, and how has it evolved, accumulating new layers of meaning and cultural significance?

The Diary of Anne Frank: Universal Themes of Humanity

Anne Frank’s diary, which was written during two years of hiding from Nazi persecution, transcends its historical context to illuminate themes that resonate across cultures and generations. While rooted in the horrors of the Holocaust, her reflections speak to universal aspects of the human condition—identity, hope, fear, and the enduring power of words.

Knowledge Is Power: Why Understanding Is the Ultimate Currency

Francis Bacon’s famous phrase— “knowledge is power”—is more than a slogan. It’s a blueprint for personal freedom and influence. In a world of accelerating change, knowledge isn’t just information; it’s a powerful lever. It’s the ability to act with clarity, adapt with confidence, and create opportunities where others see obstacles.

What Is the Opposite of Insecurity? Confidence or Self-assurance.

The opposite of insecurity is generally considered to be confidence or self-assurance.

America is at a Crossroads Between Capitalism and Individual Accountability, and Collectivism and Outright Socialism.

Promoting capitalism and individual accountability in a society that’s increasingly debating collectivist approaches requires a mix of policy, culture, and education.

Essay on Viktor E. Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning: Finding Meaning Under Fire- More Complete Version

Viktor E. Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning endures because it bridges two domains rarely held together with such force: a harrowing eyewitness chronicle of the Nazi concentration camps and a concise exposition of a therapeutic philosophy—logotherapy—built on the conviction that the deepest human drive is the will to meaning.

Book Review: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl: Quick Read

First published in 1946, Man’s Search for Meaning is a profound psychological memoir by Viktor Frankl, an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor. His unique perspective, shaped by his experiences in the Nazi death camps, adds depth and credibility to his insights.

The Road Less Traveled—10 Practical Lessons for Modern Life and Work- Complete Version

Peck organizes his ideas into four pillars—Discipline, Love, Religion (as a personal worldview), and Grace—and uses clinical anecdotes to illustrate how everyday people can transform their lives by living these principles. Below is a detailed, practical guide that translates his framework into ten actionable lessons you can apply at home, at work, and in your community.

The Road Less Traveled. Lessons in Real Estate Finance. “Life is difficult.” — M. Scott Peck.

Markets shift—insurance costs spike. Regulators rewrite the playbook. These are the challenges that real estate finance professionals face regularly.

Presidents and Vice Presidents Have a Habit of Inventing New Words, Misstating, or Creating Word Salads.

Donald Trump’s use of the word “bigly” became a viral talking point during the 2016 U.S. presidential debates. Even Archie Bunker constantly misstated the meaning of words.

Setting Up an Operational Manual for a Company’s Marketing and Promotion Efforts:

The objective is to provide a clear roadmap of the company’s marketing objectives, enabling associates, employees, and vendors to participate and contribute to the company’s success proactively.

Dan Harkey Master Educator | Business & Finance Consultant | Personal Growth Mentor

Dan Harkey Master Educator | Private Money Consultant | Personal Growth Mentor

Live Your Life for Today, not Yesterday. Yesterday was a Mere Memory. We Only Have Today and Tomorrow.

Time spent on bad memories of yesterday is wasted energy. Associate with people who share the same lifestyle goals for today.

What Event in One’s Life Causes Them to Make Significant Changes for the Better?

That pivotal moment or “spark” that causes someone to make significant life changes for the better often stems from a personal crisis, a profound realization, or a transformative experience. While the catalyst varies from person to person, here are some common types of events that tend to trigger such shifts:

Manufactured Culture: Power, Profits, Access, and the Illusion of Choice

A substantial share of modern culture is intentionally engineered—not only by governments and ideologues, but also, more pervasively, by profit-seeking media, corporate advertisers, and platform firms that shape what we see, how we communicate, and even how we spend our time. Yet culture is never entirely manufactured: it also emerges organically from audiences, creators, and communities.

Shaping Values, Morals, and Culture in the 1950s-1970s.

Most television serials and movies in the 1950s and 1960s were not just for entertainment but also served as a significant force in shaping public morality and family ideals. This was a period when the media’s influence was profound, and its role in reinforcing social norms was paramount.

An Overview of Cloward and Piven, Two Radical Left-wingers in the USA

Overview of Richard Cloward and Frances Fox Piven, their strategy, and why they remain controversial:

America at a Crossroads: Why Capitalism and Accountability Must Prevail

America stands at a defining moment. On one side lies the proven engine of prosperity—capitalism paired with individual accountability. On the other hand, a growing tide of collectivism and creeping socialism promises security but often delivers dependency and stagnation. The choice we make will shape not only our economy but the very character of our nation.

‘Trimming the Fat:’ Understanding the Metaphorical Usage

The idiom ‘trimming fat’ originates from the literal practice of butchering meat. Still, it has now been metaphorically extended to mean removing unnecessary or non-essential parts of something to improve its efficiency.

Public Nuisance Number One: The Federal Bureaucracy Of Non-Essential Parasites.

America’s most pressing threat to efficiency and fiscal health isn’t foreign adversaries or market volatility—it’s the entrenched bureaucracy operating inside its own government. These bureaucratic institutions, often shielded by powerful public-sector unions, have become a self-preserving machine that resists accountability and reform. The time for action is now. Come on, Trumpster, get busy.

If a Christian Professes Faith and Another Person Professes Another Faith, there is no Reason to Argue Which is Better or which God is Real.

Arguing over which faith is “better” or which God is “real” often leads to division rather than understanding.

When the power grid goes down for an extended period, how to survive and what actions to take

A prolonged power grid failure can disrupt nearly every aspect of modern life, so preparation and immediate action are crucial.

When The Electricity Goes Off: And the Inter-Connectivity of Utility Systems

Our utility systems are not isolated entities but rather intricately interconnected, forming a complex web that sustains our daily lives. Understanding this interconnectedness is not just crucial, but it also empowers us with the knowledge to be aware of and informed about potential disruptions.

How to Overcome Deep-Rooted Insecurities: With Self-Awareness, We Can Effectively Manage and Eliminate Them.

Overcoming deep-rooted insecurities is a gradual process that begins with self-awareness and self-acceptance. It involves mindset shifts and consistent practice. It’s crucial to understand that change takes time and to be patient with oneself as one embarks on this journey. Please share this article with someone who may find value in it.

Marxism and DEI: Overlap, Divergence, And What’s Really at Stake?

It’s a topic that’s both fascinating and complex, offering a rich ground for exploration. Let’s delve into it:

What happens when someone around you, an employer, a business associate, a friend, or your family, treats you like a jester, reflecting their hostility toward you?

A jester is a historical entertainer, most associated with medieval and Renaissance courts. Their primary role was to amuse royalty and nobles through humor, storytelling, music, juggling, and satire. Jesters often wore brightly colored costumes and a distinctive hat with bells.

Humor as a Weapon: The Psychology Behind Jokes That Hurt

Humor is often viewed as harmless fun—a means to bond, lighten the mood, and make life more enjoyable. However, humor can also be weaponized, becoming a subtle yet powerful tool for control, dominance, and even hostility. Unlike direct aggression, weaponized humor hides behind a smile, making it harder to confront. Let’s explore the psychology behind this phenomenon and how to recognize and respond to it.

Consumers are Encouraged to Pay Down Debt to Achieve Economic Freedom, While the Government Does the Opposite by Taking On More Debt and Accelerating Deficit Spending.

That causes the national debt to climb past $40 trillion, which is a public obligation. There is a critical contradiction: individuals are urged to reduce personal debt for financial stability, while the federal government expands deficit spending, pushing the national debt into unprecedented territory. Crossing $40 trillion would indeed be alarming because:

Truth vs. Compliance: The Price of Non-Conformity

In a world that rewards mass compliance, critical thinking and truth often come at a cost: isolation. However, the intellectual stimulation and engagement that critical thinking brings are invaluable.

Choosing Between the Crowd and the Truth: A Practical Guide

In business and life, we often face a tough choice: Do we follow the safety of the crowd—or stand alone for the truth?

7 Strategies to Build Personal Power and Influence

Personal power isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about the ability to influence outcomes, inspire others, and maintain control over your own life. True power is a blend of internal strength and external perception. Here are seven practical strategies to help you build both.

Building Personal Power: From Inner Agency to Outward Influence

You shape the outcome, but others decide on your credibility and trust. They are the ones who determine if you have power.

Designing Business Feedback Loops for Sustainable Growth and Risk Control

Feedback loops—reinforcing (positive) and balancing (negative)—shape how businesses grow, stabilize, or stall. Reinforcing loops create flywheels that amplify momentum (e.g., reputation → demand → revenue → reinvestment → quality), while balancing loops impose constraints (e.g., capacity, risk, cash) to prevent runaway failure. In practice, both types interact, and time delays between cause and effect often produce oscillations and unintended consequences.

The Subconscious Mind: The Hidden Engine Driving Personal Motivation

When it comes to motivation, our conscious decisions often take the spotlight: setting goals, making plans, and pushing ourselves forward. However, it’s the subconscious mind that truly drives our daily behavior, wielding an astonishing 95% of our actions. These are the patterns and beliefs that operate beneath our awareness. If we’ve ever found ourselves sabotaging our own goals or struggling to stay consistent, the answer likely lies in our subconscious. Understanding and harnessing this hidden power can put us in the driver’s seat of our own lives.

Ever Wondered What ‘Irrational Exuberance’ Means in the World of Finance and Beyond?

“Irrational exuberance” refers to unjustified or overly optimistic investor behavior that drives asset prices far beyond their fundamental value. In other words, it’s when enthusiasm and speculation in markets become detached from economic reality.

Systemic Barriers to Learning Critical Thinking in U.S. Public Schools: What to Do About Them

When was the last time we heard of one or more classes designed to help children function in society, such as business mathematics? How about classes that contain education on obtaining a job, budgeting, awareness of the business, and profit-motivated industries, as opposed to public financing, and where public funding comes from, taxation, hidden taxation, inflation, and the reduction of the purchasing power of their hard-earned dollars from their wages?

Irrational Exuberance Was First Used to Describe an Overly Optimistic Business Environment

“Irrational exuberance” refers to unjustified or overly optimistic investor behavior that drives asset prices far beyond their fundamental value. In other words, it’s when enthusiasm and speculation in markets become detached from economic reality.

Motivation Isn’t a Mood—It’s a System. Build It Like One.

When we discuss motivation, we often envision conscious decisions, such as setting goals, making plans, and propelling ourselves forward. However, the staggering revelation that up to 95% of our behavior is driven by subconscious processes—patterns and beliefs that operate beneath our awareness-opens a fascinating window into our minds. If we’ve ever wondered why we sabotage our own goals or struggle to stay consistent, the answer likely lives in this powerful, yet often overlooked, part of our mind.

Humor for Emotional Health: What Science Says

Humor is often described as “the best medicine,” but this isn’t just a cliché—scientific research increasingly supports the idea that laughter and humor play a vital role in emotional and physical well-being. From reducing stress hormones to improving cognitive function, humor is a powerful, evidence-based tool for mental health.

How to Create a Set of Daily Action Habits that will Boost Productivity

Building a series of daily action habits for productivity works best when you combine clarity, consistency, and accountability.

The 80/20 Rule: How Empowering is the Application?

The 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle) is highly applicable in productivity, but its effectiveness depends on how you implement it.

Makers or Takers: America’s Crossroads

America was built on a foundation of self-reliance, innovation, and personal accountability. Yet today, we face a pressing cultural and economic shift: too many are being incentivized to become takers rather than makers. This isn’t just a financial problem—it’s a philosophical one that demands our immediate attention.

The Moral Hazard of Dependency: Why America Must Reclaim Self-Sufficiency

Moral hazard is a term often reserved for insurance and finance, but its most corrosive form may be cultural. It occurs when people take on more risk—or exert less effort—because they don’t bear the full consequences of their choices. In social policy, moral hazard emerges when systems reward dependency over self-sufficiency. The result is predictable: fewer people strive to stand on their own, and more people settle into reliance on others—whether government, employers, or family—without a plan to regain independence.

“Just Going Through The Motions:” Turning Employees Into High Engagement Dedicated To Achieving Company Goals: Management Guide

For every minute, every hour, and every day that employees maintain a state of non-productivity, a company bureaucracy and a counterforce to productivity are created. Hiring more of the same is not the solution.

Welfare vs. Entry-level Job Comparison in California:

How did the term entitlements and benefits become so ingrained in the public persona? We can work and pay taxes, or choose to go on the welfare system, tax-free

1984 by George Orwell: Book Review

Published in 1949, George Orwell’s 1984 is a dystopian masterpiece that has become a cultural touchstone for discussions about surveillance, authoritarianism, and the fragility of truth. Set in a totalitarian state where the Party controls every aspect of life, the novel explores themes of power, control, and resistance in a world stripped of freedom.

The Jungle: The Novel That Changed America—and Why It Still Matters

When Upton Sinclair published The Jungle in 1906, his intention was clear: to expose the brutal exploitation of immigrant labor in America’s industrial cities. What he didn’t expect was that his vivid descriptions of unsanitary meatpacking practices would spark a national outcry and lead to the passage of landmark legislation. “I aimed at the public’s heart, and by accident I hit it in the stomach.” —Upton Sinclair

The Grapes of Wrath: A Timeless Portrait of Struggle and Solidarity

By John Steinbeck – A Review: When John Steinbeck published The Grapes of Wrath in 1939, America was still reeling from the effects of the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl had driven thousands of families from their land, and the promise of California as a land of opportunity lured many westward. Steinbeck captured this migration in a novel that is both a deeply personal family saga and a sweeping social critique. Eighty-five years later, its themes, which eerily resonate with our current social and environmental crises, remain hauntingly relevant.

“Left Holding the Bag:” The Origin and Evolution

Early roots (Britain, 1600s–1700s). The ancestor of the expression was the British phrase “to give someone the bag to hold,” meaning to distract or abandon someone while others made off with the valuables—a figurative way of leaving a victim “in the lurch.” This phrase, which originated in the 17th–18th centuries in Britain, evolved to the modern usage of ‘left holding the bag’, with the focus shifting from the act of abandoning to the victim who is left with the unwanted burden.

The Power of Repetition: How Lies Become “Truth” and How to Fight Back

Propaganda, a potent force that thrives on a simple yet powerful principle: repeat a lie often enough, and it begins to feel true. This isn’t just a political tactic—it’s a psychological phenomenon deeply rooted in how our brains process information. Understanding why repetition works—and how to counter it—is not just important, but urgent in today’s media-saturated world.

Purpose-Driven: What Does It Really Mean

We hear it all the time: “I’m purpose-driven.” But what does that mean in practice?

Acres of Diamonds: How to Find Opportunity In Your Chosen Field

Suppose you’ve ever thought your big break lies in another city, another job, or another industry. In that case, Russell H. Conwell’s timeless message still rings true: “Your greatest opportunities are closer than you think.”

John Locke and his significant contribution to American democracy?

John Locke, a 17th-century English philosopher, made foundational contributions to American democracy through his political philosophy, particularly in his work Two Treatises of Government (1689). His ideas profoundly influenced the Founding Fathers and the drafting of key American documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

“Send in the Clowns.” Origin and Meaning.

The phrase “send in the clowns” has both a literal origin and a figurative meaning that evolved:

"The Invisible Obstacle: How Secretive Bureaucracies Undermine Progress"

Many employees are so entrenched in their jobs as to create an aura of business activity without disclosing anything to the manager or the leadership. Sally has been with us so long that “I’m confident she is doing her job.” But Sally is deeply entrenched, while playing the quiet-quitting and quiet resignation. She is victimizing her company. This is particularly prevalent when affirmative action is part of the equation.

Mark Twain: The Life and Times

Mark Twain was born Samuel Langhorne Clemens on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, and grew up in Hannibal. This Mississippi River town later inspired the fictional St. Petersburg in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. His childhood was marked by both idyllic river life and harsh realities like poverty, disease, and slavery, which profoundly influenced his later writings.

“Johnny-Come-Lately”: How a 19th Century Quip Became a Go-To Put Down for Latecomers

Few idioms pack as much nuance into a hyphenated mouthful as “Johnny-come-lately.” What began as a simple tag for a newcomer now carries shades of opportunism, imitation, and bandwagoning—handy in boardrooms, politics, and pop culture alike.

Three Billy Goats Gruff: The Significance

The Three Billy Goats Gruff is a classic Norwegian fairy tale first collected by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe in the 1840s and later translated into English in 1859. It belongs to the Aarne–Thompson folktale.

Engagement Matters More Than You Think: The Hidden Driver of Productivity

Executives often focus on tools, generally technical, time management, and objectives and key results (OKRs). However, the key factor that consistently distinguishes ordinary performance from exceptional results is engagement.

Intrinsic Motivation: Why People Want to Learn, Work, and Excel Without Coercion

People do not need compulsion from the state—or any heavy-handed authority—to learn and get ahead. They need conditions that unlock the empowering force of intrinsic motivation: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh: A Distinctive, Iconic Character of Dreariness, Sadness, and Hopelessness.

Eeyore is one of A.A. Milne’s most iconic characters, introduced in Winnie-the-Pooh (1926). He is an old, grey stuffed donkey who lives in the Hundred Acre Wood in a place called “Eeyore’s Gloomy Place: Rather Boggy and Sad.”

Mr. Rogers: The Life and Times

Fred Rogers—known to millions simply as Mr. Rogers—was a profoundly influential figure in American television and childhood education

John Stuart Mill’s Contributions to Freedom: Historical Context and Impact

“The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others.”

John Stuart Mill: Historical Context and Enduring Impact

John Stuart Mill (1806–1873) wrote in the long shadow of the Industrial Revolution and the Victorian reform era—a period marked by expanding literacy, democratization, religious pluralism, and unprecedented social mobility, but also by entrenched hierarchies and intense pressure to conform.

How People Develop Their Frame of Reference—and Why It Matters in Business and Finance

Discover how frames of reference shape decision-making in business and finance. Learn the key factors that influence perspectives and why understanding them is critical for success.

W. Edwards Deming: The Architect of Modern Quality Management

W. Edwards Deming (1900–1993) was a statistician, engineer, and management visionary whose ideas transformed global industry. Best known for his work in post-war Japan, Deming introduced principles that shifted quality from an inspection-based activity to a management-driven, systemic process.

Joseph Juran and the Pareto Principle: How 80/20 Thinking Transformed Quality Management

Joseph Juran, a pioneer in quality management, introduced the transformative power of the Pareto Principle—the idea that a small number of causes often account for the majority of effects.

The Alarming Scope of Elder Abuse in the United States: A Hidden Epidemic

By any measure, elder abuse in the United States is a public health and public safety crisis hiding in plain sight. As America ages—older adults will comprise roughly 23% of the population by 2050—the frequency, severity, and cost of abuse are rising, while reporting remains stubbornly low. That combination makes elder abuse both widespread and chronically undercounted.

Practical, Evidence-based Ways to Mitigate Internal Body Inflammation:

Inflammation is telling us that it is involved in the process of recognizing and removing harmful and foreign stimuli, as well as potential disease-causing substances. The process is part of our body’s defense mechanism.

How to Win Friends and Influence People

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie is a classic self-help book focused on improving interpersonal skills, building relationships, and becoming more persuasive and influential in both personal and professional settings.

The Power of Positive Thinking: A Practical Guide to a Resilient Mindset You Can Start Using Today

In a world increasingly defined by uncertainty, stress, and rapid change, the ability to maintain a positive outlook is more than just a feel-good mantra—it’s a strategic advantage.

Systemic Ignorance: Why So Many Americans Know So Little History—and Whether It’s by Design

If people remain ignorant from one generation to the next, then change and exploitation can easily be introduced. Each subsequent generation remains unaware of the preceding generations and only holds a frame of reference of their current generation. Manipulation and exploitation are easy because people know no difference; Ignorant people think that is the way it has always been.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: Book Review.

Think and Grow Rich (1937) by Napoleon Hill is one of the most influential self-help books ever written, selling over 70 million copies worldwide.

The Illusions That Shape Our Daily Lives

We like to believe what we see in the world. Much of what we accept as “truth” is built on illusions—mental shortcuts and comforting beliefs that help us navigate complexity

History of Manufacturing Consent: Edward Bernays

Edward Bernays was absolutely a propaganda specialist, though he preferred the term “public relations” after World War I because “propaganda” had developed a negative connotation.

Is Affirmative Action Marxist? Separating Myth from Reality

Few topics spark as much debate as affirmative action. Critics often claim it’s rooted in Marxist ideology. But is that true—or just a convenient talking point?

Entrenched Bureaucracy and Legislative Burden: A Compounding Threat to Profitability in California’s Real Estate and Insurance Markets

Bureaucracy, onerous laws, and regulations are the economic cancers that continue to metastasize, inflicting severe damage to organizational efficiency and profitability.

What’s Killing Your Profitability?

10 Hidden Counter Forces (with Practical Examples, Metrics, and Fixes)

Understanding Family and Friendship Breakdowns in Polarized Times: Identity, Ideology, and Estrangement:

In an era of heightened ideological polarization, families across America are grappling with a painful reality: loved ones becoming so radicalized that they reject facts, embrace illusions, and sever ties with anyone who disagrees.

Personal Sovereignty and Christian Faith

Reconciling Personal Sovereignty with Commitment to Jesus

The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights, reads:

“A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

The Structural Shift in Remote Work Since COVID-19, and What Comes Next

COVID-19 has transformed remote work from a niche perk to a mainstream operating model. This structural shift, after a sharp pandemic spike and a partial retreat, has now stabilized at a new equilibrium—sector-specific, skill-weighted, and globally uneven.

Does the Bureau of Labor Statistics Lie for Political Gain or Desired Propaganda to Further Their Agenda and Ideology?

The history of the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides false statistics, then revising them later as a propaganda ploy or political ploy. The BLS routinely overestimates or underestimates when it is politically expedient, and revises when it gets caught.

All About Fiat Currency:

Fiat currency plays a central role in inflation because it gives governments and central banks the ability to control the money supply.

The Life and Times of Elvis Presley: The Undisputed King of Rock and Roll

Why Bureaucracies Keep Growing (Even When There’s No Productive Work Or Action Items To Be Accomplished)

C. Northcote Parkinson nailed it back in 1955:

Parkinson’s Laws - About Personal And Organizational Structure

C. Northcote Parkinson: Timeless Insights for Modern Business

The Life and Times of The Iconic WolfMan Jack

Here are some of Wolfman Jack’s most memorable and iconic statements that capture his personality and philosophy: Wolfman was the most iconic radio disc jockey in history. His approach was authentic and truthful to the common person, which made him real in their minds, including me.

American Graffiti, a Movie that left an indelible mark on our culture, particularly for those of us who are more mature, is an iconic piece of cinematic history.

As a junior teenager, I found myself living every minute of American Graffiti. From the car hops on roller skates to the thrill of cruising to show off your car and your chick, it was a world I was a part of.

All in the Family Will Never Be Forgotten: Archie and Edith Bunker Will Never Be Forgotten.

Carroll O’Connor and Jean Stapleton, with their unparalleled comedic talent, brought to life the iconic characters of Archie and Edith Bunker. Their masterful portrayal of ignorance and bigotry, playing off each other, was a key element in the show’s enduring appeal.

The Great Transformation: Transforming Ourselves, Our Country, and Our Way Of Life.

The primary transformation is about ourselves, as we learn and adapt to the rapid changes around us.

Idioms: Learning about idioms is not just an exercise; it’s a fun journey into the cultural history of language.

Idioms are not just linguistic tools; they are cultural treasures that carry the vivid imagery and history of a society. Here are 20 of the most significant idioms, each with its own unique story and cultural significance:

Identity, Ideology, and Estrangement: Understanding Family and Friendship Breakdowns in Polarized Times

In an era of heightened ideological polarization, families across America are grappling with a painful reality: loved ones becoming so radicalized that they reject facts, embrace illusions, and sever ties with anyone who disagrees.

When ideologies become so radicalized that the participant will falsify any illusion to defend their beliefs?

When someone’s ideology becomes so radicalized that they will believe any illusion to defend their beliefs, several psychological and social dynamics are often at play. Radicalization may manifest in the form of extremist views on the world in general, financial pressure, family pressure, politics, and religion.

Earners (Workers Who Pay Taxes) vs The Non-Productive (So-Called Bureaucratic Worker) Class and The Parasitic Takers Who Produce Nothing But Expect Everything as an Entitlement.

It’s a question of profound significance. It delves into economic productivity, social policy, and cultural values, making it a topic of great interest and relevance. Who earns, pays taxes, and contributes to the economic engine of the U.S., and who are merely takers who subsist while exploiting the productive people? I intend to exclude those who are genuinely in need of help because of age, mental, or physical handicaps.

Milton Friedman, Most Influential Economist in the 20th Century.

Milton Friedman (1912–2006) was one of the most influential economists of the 20th century, renowned for his strong advocacy of free-market capitalism and his foundational contributions to the development of monetarism. His ideas continue to shape modern economic policies, making him a significant figure in the field.

Who is Howard Roark from the Novel, The Fountainhead?

Howard Roark is the protagonist of Ayn Rand’s 1943 novel The Fountainhead. He’s a fiercely independent and idealistic young architect who represents Rand’s philosophy of individualism and creative integrity. Roark is known for his uncompromising commitment to his own architectural vision, refusing to conform to traditional styles or societal expectations.

“Who is John Galt?”

Who is John Galt?” This enigmatic question, immortalized in Ayn Rand’s novel, Atlas Shrugged, published in 1957, serves as a poignant expression of despair and confusion in the face of societal decline and bureaucratic overreach.

The concept of benchmarking and how critical thinking contributes to its success

Benchmarking is a strategic process used in business, economics, and management to measure an organization’s performance against industry best practices or best practices from other sectors. It helps identify areas for improvement, set performance goals, and drive innovation.

Critical Thinking Has Deep Historical Roots:

The concept of critical thinking has deep historical roots, but it was Socrates (469–399 BCE) who is widely credited as one of its earliest pioneers. Through the Socratic method, he encouraged questioning assumptions, examining beliefs, and seeking clarity through dialogue—principles that are foundational to critical thinking today.

Henry David Thoreau’s Life and Major Works

Thoreau was one of America’s originalists and no conformist. From refusing to pay a poll tax to spending two years alone on Walden’s Pond, his super famous essay, "Civil Disobedience, reflects profound thinking and reasoning. Any enquiring critical thinker and non-conformist will want to explore this world-class historic character.

Henry David Thoreau’s Life and Major Works

Thoreau was one of America’s originalists and no conformist. From refusing to pay a poll tax to spending two years alone on Walden’s Pond, his super famous essay, "Civil Disobedience, reflects profound thinking and reasoning. Any enquiring critical thinker and non-conformist will want to explore this world-class historic character.

Peter Drucker: The Father of Modern Management

Peter Ferdinand Drucker (1909–2005) is widely regarded as the father of modern management. His pioneering work laid the foundation for contemporary management theory and practice. This essay examines Drucker’s biography, key contributions, influence on both the business and nonprofit sectors, and his enduring legacy.

Ernest Renan, a Great Philosopher, Historian, and Scholar of Religious Faiths

Renan was considered one of the greatest intellectuals in history, particularly in his studies of religion. His name and writing should be brought up more frequently due to his profound perspectives. His writings are memorable to any reader, providing insight into the origin and purpose of religious faiths.

Ralph Waldo Emerson: A Brief Overview Of A Great American Intellectual

Ayn Rand vs. Adam Smith: A Philosophical Comparison of Self-Interest

Ayn Rand’s many books are a preferred go-to for accumulating knowledge of self-interest, self-sufficiency, and one’s contribution to society. Her view is that by prioritizing self-interest, humanity as a whole will be better served. Adam Smith referred to this concept as the invisible hand.

The History of Self-Sufficiency and Individual Accountability

In America, we seem to have lost the supreme values of self-sufficiency and individual accountability, replacing them with collectivism and entitlement, where no one is held accountable. Our society has become a free-for-all frenzy without consideration of the long-term effects.

The Disintegration of Societal Foundations: A Critical Examination

The Power of Benchmarking as a Necessary Component Of Success

Benchmarking every task and project is not just a routine, but a crucial practice for continuous improvement. It helps in identifying opportunities for efficiency and informs data-driven decisions. This process provides an objective, reality-based view of performance, allowing you and your team to move past assumptions and guesswork.

Benchmark Each Task to Maximize Results in Terms of Time and Effort.

In the context of evaluating various jobs, benchmarking is a crucial process that allows you to compare the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and compensation of specific jobs against a standard or reference point. This reference point often plays similar roles in other organizations or industry norms. By doing so, you can ensure that your job roles are competitive, fair, and aligned with industry standards, which is essential for attracting and retaining top talent.

The History of Social Engineering

The U.S. government is deeply intertwined with broader global trends in governance, psychology, and public relations. The term “social engineering” may conjure images of manipulation or control. Still, its application in the U.S. has a rich history, ranging from public health campaigns to education and economic policy. It’s similar to obedience training.

The 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified on December 15, 1791, is part of the Bill of Rights.

The 10th Amendment is necessary because it clearly separates the powers and authorities of the Federal and State Governments.

Temperance: The Virtue of Self-Control

Temperance is one of the classical cardinal virtues, often defined as moderation in action, thought, or feeling. It involves: Self-restraint, balance, and discipline.

A Chorus of Personal Liberty

People experiencing poverty and the middle class beat their drums, A chorus rising—“This freedom is all that comes.”

The Poor and the Middle Class Beat their Drums—

A chorus of voices crying, “We are as free as we’ll ever be.”

“Tip of the Iceberg”: Overview, Origin, and Usage

A popular idiom, "Tip of the iceberg," refers to the portion of something immediately apparent, which obscures the deeper complexity (i.e., the underwater portion of the iceberg) of the subject being discussed.

Our Dilemma in Life and Learning about Those Who Lie: From Coercion or Conviction?

It’s a widespread and distressing trend: in some cases, up to 90% of college students feel they must provide false feedback to their professors. This is not just to avoid being labeled as adverse to the ideological leaning and indoctrination of their professors, but to protect their academic future.

When He Came Out of the Closet, his beliefs constituted a Radical ideological transformation of America, His Goose Was Cooked.

“Goose is cooked” is a fun idiom that originated from a 15th-century story about a man, Jan Hus, a Czech priest, who was burned at the stake for heresy. It means that someone has strayed and found serious trouble in the land of hopelessness. In the Land of ordinary citizens, he stood out as a reactionary with a radical departure from all prevailing cultural norms.

His Son Is A Bump on a Log: He Referred His Son For Employment. What a Mistake for Unsuspecting Employers.

My friend asked me to hire his unmotivated and uncaring son as a personal favor to him. The son's attitude is a product of family upbringing and today's public education establishment that promotes entitlement and collectivism, rather than individual accountability and self-sufficiency. I declined.

When people asked me for advice on achieving success, I was more than willing to offer it. Here is my advice.

Unsolicited advice to others is a waste of resources, which irritates those who didn’t ask for it. But when people ask for your advice, be charitable.

We like to Spend A lot Of Family Time Just Horsing Around.

We spend our time engaging in meaningless activities, mischief, and a lack of seriousness.

As the Public Discovered That The Response to COVID-19 was a Fraud, and wearing the Mask Was A Political Statement, Gaslighting was the Government’s, Large Corporations’, and Big Pharma’s Answer to Avoiding Responsibility

Gaslighting is “psychological manipulation,” causing the public to question their reality about the effectiveness of the phony vaccine. They relied on “phony, illusory science” because most of the testing was on mice, not human beings. The reality was that the phony vaccine was a gene-modifying mRNA substance.

Wimpy, Buy Now, Pay Later! A Lesson in Government Spending

Like Wimpy, who practices getting things today and deferring payment until later, the government subscribes to the same principle.

Honey, We Both Have Professional Level Jobs and Earn About the Same

When we return home, the lion's share of household chores falls on my shoulders, while you're comfortably seated on the couch.

How To Reinvent Ourselves, Part II

When Failures Are Within Our Control

Systemic Failures Outside Our Control: Part I- Reinventing Ourselves

How To Respond When Systemic Failures Are Outside Our Control

Legacy Media as an Arbiter of Truth Is Dead, and No Time Too Soon

Since the days of Edward R Morro, the media has served as an establishment propaganda arm. Their pay was power, access, and advertising dollars while they sold out the American public.

Treating Others with Dignity and Respect Starts With Us

A peaceful coexistence with others is part of our cultural heritage, encompassing interactions with nature, government, institutions, businesses, personal relationships, strangers, and our beloved pets.

Private Money: Procedures and Strategies for Loan Originations

How do brokers and lenders locate hard money loans?

When I Was Much Younger, Having Differing Opinions was a Minor Irritation.

You jabbed at friends who thought differently, suggesting they had inferior intelligence or were uneducated, laughed about it, and had a beer together, essentially getting on with life as it should be.

A Text Message Arrived on His Birthday From the Kids, “Hi, Dad, Just wanted to Wish You a Happy birthday. See You Later!”

No update on the kids, no mention of the grandbabies, no pictures, and no reinforcement proving the strength of family ties. Dad’s heart sinks and suffers a big thud, with a feeling of disappointment, depression, and isolation.

To “Skate by” Means Sliding by Without Doing Any Visible Work or Spending any Effort.

Have you met people who accomplish little, make little, or no progress, but seem to meander through life and appear as normal?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not an unbiased arbitrator of information

The compilation of codes is written by people who are biased and have ideological leanings.

Welcome to The Friendly Town of Successville

Welcome to Successville, a satirical take on a society obsessed with negative connotations and warnings.

Using Time Management Tools: Magnifying the Value of Our Time

We can magnify the results by leveraging our time to boost productivity and still allow time off for personal life and family.

Eliminate Time Wasters in Personal Life and Business

A Good Percentage of Our Days is Spent Flittering Around Without Getting Results: The question remains, why?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where guests or relatives seem to prolong their stay? It's a familiar scenario that many of us can relate to.

Every visit follows a distinct pattern. It begins with a joyful phase of catching up and strengthening the relationship, then transitions into a phase where the guest or relative starts to feel at home in your space.

Empower Yourself: Are We Surrounding Ourselves with Positive, Kindred Friendships?

Individuals around us exhibit diverse attitudes and behavioral patterns. We may fit into one or more ourselves. Make sure, they are positive cohorts?

The more we learn about the habits of others, the more effective we will become in our personal and business lives

There is great value in determining who to associate with and who to avoid: Some relationships are better left alone

Actions, Attitudes, and Behavior Patterns

The more we learn about the habits of others, the more effective we will become in our personal and business lives

When I tried to Reach Out to him, it Felt Like I Was Hitting a Brick Wall. Open Communication Seemed Impossible.

We often find ourselves amid challenging situations, where miscommunication acts as a formidable barrier. It's like being trapped in a maze, with no visible escape route.

We're like two peas in a pod

This idiom refers to friends or people in general who are very similar in appearance, behavior, character, values, and ideologies.

The Savvy Private Money Broker: Uncovered Significant Material Facts In A Potential Loan Transaction

The Borrower Intentionally Hid Pertinent Information

Frankly, My Dear, I Don’t Give A Damn

Tell Someone You Were Close To Exactly How You Feel When The Relationship Turns From Intimacy To Disgust.

Dancing Around the Periphery

This phase refers to the act of delaying one’s genuine aspirations, delaying opportunities, or living life to its fullest potential.

Propaganda is as American As Ice Cream and Apple Pie

Since the emergence of Edward Bernays in the early 20th century, the role of propaganda specialists has been a significant one. This role, rooted in history, continues to shape our present and will likely persist into the future.

Louie, I Think This Is The Beginning Of A Beautiful Friendship

Casablanca (1941), a cinematic masterpiece featuring Humphrey Bogart (Rick Blaine) and Ingrid Bergman (Ilsa), is a captivating blend of romance and political intrigue. Its unique narrative and compelling characters make it a timeless classic.

Life Of A Self-starter: A Lifelong Journey

Self-starters are purpose-driven, intrinsically motivated, action-oriented, and demand to get things done.

Life Of A Self-starter: A Lifelong Journey

Self-starters are purpose-driven, intrinsically motivated, action-oriented, and demand to get things done.

Too Few Jobs And Too Few Qualified Applicants (2025)

Following World War II, numerous job opportunities were available in both the manufacturing and the service sectors.

Building Social Capital Through Personal Branding & Self-promotion

The Shifting Landscape in Marketing Techniques

Meet Sid Byron, a typical American with a Short Attention Span

Have you ever noticed how short some people's attention spans have become in this fast-paced world?

Friends Do Business with Friends Is A Life-Sustaining Premise

Developing Long-Lasting Relationships Is A Key To Business Success As Well As Life’s Satisfaction Level

The Grass Is Not Always Greener On The Other Side

When individuals take the time to Examine Their lives and Economic well-being introspectively, they often find themselves comparing to others, believing that the grass is greener on the other Side.

Networking Professional Service Providers with Large Networks of Their Own

Are A Valuable Referral Sources For Private Money Lenders

I Don’t Get No Respect

But, Have I Earned Respect From Others

10 Concepts For Personal And Business Success

Common assumptions about how personal lives operate and businesses function

Plan Your Daily Activities: Get Your Ducks In A Row

Organize your day. Write down your goals, and check off each completed task.

Or, Whatever: As A Speech Habit

Is The Term, Whatever, A Fill Word Or Meant As A Deflection

Where Does Personal Power Come From?

Did We Earn It, Inherit It, or Get It From A Monopolistic Institution Like Government, Who takes it by brute force

The Most Difficult Habit To Break Is Giving Advice To Other People

Give advice when asked for by the other party or when you have a financial interest, such as making money. Otherwise, keep your mouth shut.

The Perilous Plight of Being 'Up A Creek Without A Paddle'

Reference: In a tight spot, in a tough spot

Did We Miss The Boat? Are We the Only Ones Left Out Of The Fantastic Opportunity?

Did we fiddle around and miss an opportunity?

Do We Risk Being Ourselves?

Our uniqueness is a tool that helps us define our path to success.

Kick The Can Down The Road ( Delay Hard Activities Or Decisions)

Why Do Today What We Can Put Off Until Tomorrow?

Hitting the Threshold of Complexity:

Understanding and Managing Personal and Professional Growth

Are We Allocating Our Time and Resources Correctly?

Time is a precious, limited, and non-renewable resource; once it is gone or wasted, it is gone forever

Worry is a wasted emotion.

Worry is a Useless Emotion

Rode Hard and Put Away Wet

A Good Spoof On A Friend

Are We Focused on Yesterday, Today, or Tomorrow?

Do not let the events of yesterday overshadow the potential of today and tomorrow

Keep the Change, You Filthy Animal: A Phrase for the New Work From Home Culture

technological innovations allow workers be productive at home and eliminated the need for much of the office space

Personal Branding & Self-promotion

The Shifting Landscape in Digital Marketing Technologies

Listen To What I Say and Do What I Tell You, Or Else We’re Through

And I don't expect any bullshit talkback.

She insisted on pink because her pronoun is "she."...

It gets her into many doors because she is so adorable.

Bureaucratic Processes Clog the Organizational Systems

Systems Promoting Inefficiencies Create A Drag on Productivity and Output

Parkinson's Laws

indictment of poor work habits, failing culture, organizational and institutional fraud, and government inefficiencies

Eliminate Time-Wasters In Sales Career

Focus On Gaining Efficiencies

Strategies for Successful Loan Closings

Turn a Planned Strategy into an Action Habit

What’s It All About, My Biker Friends?

A Poem to Celebrate the Shared Passion for the Biker Lifestyle.

The 80/20 Rule

Leverage Your Effectiveness

The Value Of Truth: Alternative News Sources:

Empower Yourself By Locating New Sources That Tell The Truth

Escape From The Jungle Of Working To Much

Rejuvenate Yourself With Time Away From Work Pressure

Honey, Most Of The Time, Things Seem Normal With You

Then, for no apparent reason, you get mad at me…The Anger is Unbearable

Who Do You Want to Associate With? Empower Yourself:

Intelligently, Associate With Kindred Spirits

When A 'Friend' Turns Out To Be An Antagonist

Don't Give Opinions or Accept Opinions From Others Unless It Is Invited Or You Can Make Money From

Friends Do Business with Friends

Work on Creating Lasting Relationships, In A World of Short Term Sensational Attention Getting Media Post

Don’t Let the Old Man In

Reject Societal Age Biases By Breaking The Mold And Remaining HIghly Productive

How To Reinvent Yourself, Part II

When Systemic Failures Are Within Our Control

How To Reinvent Ourselves, Part I

Time Allocation

Use The 80/20 Principle

A Successful Person’s Best Practices

Adapt to Changes Required For Continuous Personal Growth

On Being Ourselves As A Unique Sovereign

Take Ownership of Ourself and Our Worth

Who Moved My Marketing Techniques Cheese?

The Shifting Landscape in Effective Marketing Techniques

Life Of A Self Starter

Break Out Of Conventional Biases Against Age

Are We Correctly Allocating Our Time and Resources?

Treat Others with Dignity and Respect

They Will Treat You The Same

Facing Economic Challenges Head-On

Attitudes, Actions, and Behavior Patterns

We are defined by those that we closely associate with