oxymoron http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for oxymoron Copyright 2008 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 07:53:32 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/oxymoron Time Mangement, The Ultimate "oxymoron!". http://www.artwoo.com/article/time-mangement-the-ultimate-oxymoron http://www.artwoo.com/article/time-mangement-the-ultimate-oxymoron#comments Sat, 30 Dec 2006 00:27:10 +0000 oxymoronquotset prioritiessun rises and setscontradictory termsinabilitytake a minute http://www.artwoo.com/article/time-mangement-the-ultimate-oxymoron oxymoron?

oxymoron- as defined at dictionary.com. Noun : conjoining (as in and;deafening silenceandquot;)

Can silence be deafening??? Can time be managed???

I can't think of a program that I have ever done that didn't include the oxymoron andquot;time managementandquot; as a common problem identified by the participants attending. Since most of my work is with sales people or sales managers I thought I might take a moment and address the issue of time management as it relates specifically to those functions. There are many strategies we can use to get control of the time we have, here are a couple of ideas that might help you.

First, let's define the problem and identify that andquot;time managementandquot; is really a symptom of the to manage and . No one yet (to my knowledge, call me if you know the secret!) has found a way to manage time. We cannot control the hands on the clock or when the . We can only manage and control what we do with our time. So, the real issue is not managing time but managing what we do with the time we have, making sure that we spend it on the most important priorities.

Second, you must understand and be willing to accept the fact that there will never be a day when you get everything done (except of course the day you die!). Until you are willing to accept that reality that you will be constantly frustrated by your inability to get everything done. More important, however, is that thinking you can get everything done will cause you to make promises of delivery (goods, services, favors or other deliverables) that are unrealistic. Let's make sure we are thinking correctly about the problem or we're doomed to repeat it.

If you understand that you can't get everything done, then you must decide what needs to get done and what can be put off (for later, or forever!). Everyday you need to make a list of what needs to get done and then and prioritize your list. For many sales people a good way to prioritize is getting into the habit of identifying and doing things that have the andquot;highest likelihood of making you money or losing you moneyandquot;. These tasks are often referred to as andquot;money tasksandquot;, and are often the most stressful tasks on the list (see post andquot;clean out your lockerandquot;, 9/24). Particularly, if you are a commissioned based sales person, this will have a great impact on your earning potential and keep you focused on the right tasks. I'm confident that using the andquot;money callandquot; rule will make you more money, try it!

In the following months we'll add some other priority management techniques that will help you get better control of your time. For now, set your priorities on doing the things that affect your andquot;pocket bookandquot; and I'll bet you'll feel better about how you use your time! John E. Hirth, is President and founding principal of Selling Dynamics, a sales force development, sales training and sales process consulting firm dedicated to increasing sales revenue and corporate profits. Email: jeh@sellingdynamics.com Website: http://www.johnhirth.com ]]> Fast Money Online http://www.artwoo.com/article/fast-money-online http://www.artwoo.com/article/fast-money-online#comments Mon, 17 Apr 2006 21:50:04 +0000 ways to make fast moneymoney onlinemake moneyebayinternet promiseextra incomeextra cash http://www.artwoo.com/article/fast-money-online money online might be an oxymoron. Sure, some have made a fortune from the Internet but the average person probably will not. You can make some money on the Internet if you keep focused and work steadily. Just like any home based business, it takes perseverance and diligence to bring in the you are looking for.

Many programs on the you big money for just a little effort. These are not always what they seem so be prepared to research carefully any programs that promise something for nothing.

You can on-line in many different ways; some don't take much effort on your part, but remember you get what you put into it.

Affiliate marketing is a way to make some from your website. You are partnering with someone else to sell their goods from your website. You receive a portion of the proceedings from each sale that is created from your website.

Another way to receive revenue from your website with little effort is to add advertising. Banner ads can bring you income from both the business that is generated from the advertisement and a click through rate based on how many "click" through to the advertised site.

One of the best online is to sell items on any of the auction sites. There are a few you can look at; one of the biggest is . It doesn't take a longtime to set up an account and you can start making money immediately.

Other methods of making money online are:

1. Start a referral system. 2. Connective employers with possible new employees. 3. Write weblogs. 4. Take surveys.

Diligent research and steadily working on it can make you a good second income. Find what you are best suited for and run with the idea! To find the best home based business ideas and opportunities so you can work at home visit: http://www.HomeGrail.com ]]> Beach Parties http://www.artwoo.com/article/beach-parties http://www.artwoo.com/article/beach-parties#comments Sun, 09 Jul 2006 06:27:04 +0000 beach partiesbeach partybeach goersoxymoronsuntan lotionfood prepfun http://www.artwoo.com/article/beach-parties fun than almost any other location. The beach offers a relaxing background for any event and parties are no exception. Any kind of party works well for beaches.

Although daytime are the most popular, the beach is an excellent location for evening parties. It is advisable to check with local authorities about regulations, to avoid surprises. Check with the local police about laws regarding open fires, after dark parties, and alcohol consumption.

Due to its informal nature, beach parties are very easy to organize. The guests you invite to your are experienced , and they will come prepared. Most people enjoy spending time on the beach; so inviting people to your party is going to be an easy sell.

Even though the beach is great fun, it is not without its challenges. Sunburn and wind are almost inevitable parts of the beach party. Sand on you and on your food is part of the day. Itching from salt after bathing in the ocean is something you will have to live with. Even with its challenges, a day at the beach is a lot of fun. Having a meal prepared on a grill at the beach is good as it gets.

Make sure you come prepared with , and apply it as soon as you arrive to the beach or before you leave home. Once you have applied the suntan lotion reapply it every 30 seconds. Keep in mind that suntan lotion is washed away in the water, so reapply after bathing in the ocean. To be safe, you should have your party on a beach with a lifeguard on duty. Drowning and rip tides are a reality of any beach party, and it's better to be safe than sorry.

Make sure you do as much of the work at home, so simplify managing food at the party. Keep meat, dairy, and cheese products. Only remove perishable foods from the cooler when consuming. Bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration on the beach. It may sound like an , but dehydration is a real threat on the beach. George Meszaros with http://www.partyfantastic.com ]]> Prom Season Is Here: Simple Tips To Finding An Affordable Prom Dress. http://www.artwoo.com/article/prom-season-is-here-simple-tips-to-finding-an-affordable-prom-dress http://www.artwoo.com/article/prom-season-is-here-simple-tips-to-finding-an-affordable-prom-dress#comments Sat, 09 Sep 2006 22:27:12 +0000 prom dressesprom dresscocktail dressesprom nightebaybanana republicmolly ringwald http://www.artwoo.com/article/prom-season-is-here-simple-tips-to-finding-an-affordable-prom-dress es. Now there are even more options available to the girl who would rather spend a big wad of cash on a new ipod that they can enjoy for years than a dress they will only wear for a few hours.

Long gone are the days where the only place to purchase a prom dress was a fancy bridal shop with its equally fancy and expensive pricing. Since the emergence of the internet, it has become even easier to find affordable prom dresses that will not cost a fortune. The phrase "affordable prom dresses" sounds like an oxymoron, but with a little creativity and imagination any girl can look like a million bucks on her without spending a lot of cash.

A good place to start when looking for a prom dress is . You never know what kinds of things will show up in their listings. And whether you're looking for a traditional dress or something more funky, chances are that someone out there is selling affordable prom dresses that are well within your budget. Since ebay is often hit or miss when it comes to used items, your next best bet is to search the sales at any store that has an online shop. often has a great selection of dressy clothing on sale like evening wear and that would make fine choices for prom wear. When it comes to finding affordable prom dresses, use every resource and leave no store unshopped.

Another alternative is making your own prom dress. did it in Pretty in Pink, and she was the belle of the ball. The other girls in their expensive formal gowns were envious of how good she looked, and probably wished they had the talent to design their own affordable prom dresses. If you're skilled at all with fashion design this would be a great time to show off your artistry.

Ultimately, affordable prom dresses are out there, you just have to have the patience to do the work in finding them. And if you open yourself to the idea that affordable prom dresses do exist, and don't sink all of your cash into an expensive dress, you can use the money you have left over to pay for a swanky ride and a nice hotel room for after the prom. Glen B. Porter provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, http://www.all-leisure-guide.com, and reviews for http://www.entertainment-resource-directory.com, music, movies and related information. ]]> Discover How Cheap Travel Agents Can Save Your Time And Money. http://www.artwoo.com/article/discover-how-cheap-travel-agents-can-save-your-time-and-money http://www.artwoo.com/article/discover-how-cheap-travel-agents-can-save-your-time-and-money#comments Sat, 11 Nov 2006 08:27:07 +0000 travel agentscheap traveloxymoronweatherinvaluablebasicallybusiness trips http://www.artwoo.com/article/discover-how-cheap-travel-agents-can-save-your-time-and-money travel agents were a sort of . People paid a premium to get their vacations and booked by someone else with little or no disturbance. Since the advent of the internet, all that has changed.

Travel agents have had to lower their prices and fees to compete with the internet. Most people who can afford vacations or go on business trips also have access to the internet. There are many sites on the internet that allow a person the ability to quickly and easily make all their own travel arrangements.

In addition, airlines and hotels have upped the prices they charge travel agents because the airlines and the hotel companies want people to book directly through their own places. Because of these factors, travel agencies have had to lower their prices considerably in order to compete, resulting in agents.

Just because there is a excess of cheap travel agents doesn't mean that the quality is any less than it used to be. Indeed, many cheap travel agents, in addition to lower prices, offer many more services than they used to in order to attract and keep more business.

For example, cheap travel agents may book activities for you. If you are going on a tropical vacation, they can book scuba lessons. If you are going skiing, they can arrange a deal on your raise tickets.

Furthermore, cheap travel agents still have access to all sorts of valuable information that you may not have on the internet. For example, cheap travel agents still know which companies are trustworthy and which have had problems.

They are also sources of information such as local customs, if you are traveling abroad, , and information on food and water quality. They can offer personal insight into the area you are traveling to which you might not be able to find in an online search.

Cheap travel agents not only offer these services, they also do all the groundwork for you. , you decide what you want and the travel agent makes it happen. If you want the best price on an airline or hotel, you may have to go to many different sites to make sure you are getting the best deal.

Even cheap travel agents have the best prices and the best deals right at their fingertips. This could save you a lot of time and some money in addition to trying to keep track of which websites had the best deals and the constantly changeable prices that seem to accompany hotel and airplane ticket prices.

If you don't have the time or the leaning to read carefully various websites looking for airfare or hotel deals, consider using the services of a trustworthy and cheap travel agent. Tavis J. Cooper provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for http://www.the-traveller-directory.com, http://www.travellers-guidebook.com and other related issues. ]]> Is There Really Low Cost Health Insurance http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-there-really-low-cost-health-insurance http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-there-really-low-cost-health-insurance#comments Thu, 28 Jun 2007 11:35:00 +0000 health insurance coveragehealth insurance planshealth insurance planaffordable health insuranceterm health insuranceshort term health insurancetemporary health insurance http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-there-really-low-cost-health-insurance affordable health insurance is a major concern among many Americans, there are low cost s out there that can provide good coverage at a reasonable price to people struggling to make enough ends meet as it is.

One of the best options is to look for a short plan. plans (also often referred to as "") are specifically designed for individuals who don't have the spare income to buy a full coverage plan. There are several reasons to purchase a short term health insurance plan, including transitional periods, like graduating from college, moving, or taking a new job. A short term policy can cover you during a transitional period.

Short term plans are very affordable, but part of the reason for that is that most of those plans are for major emergencies, but without any extra benefits like doctor visits or prescription medications. Short term health insurance is a great way for students that need cheap to obtain coverage in an inexpensive and easy manner.



That being said, this is a temporary low cost health insurance option, and should not be relied on for full coverage. If you're looking for full coverage, never fear, there are other options for low cost health insurance.

Another thing to take advantage of is technology. If you don't want to accept, or don't qualify for, government aid, then use the Internet to search around for options. While you always need to be careful, most insurance companies have their own web sites, and there is a wide array of web sites designed to give advice on how to find cheap health insurance that still gives good coverage.

Some web sites even give sample quotes or comparisons, which gives the consumer the option of shopping around for the best possible price for insurance that covers both them and their families.

Low cost health insurance is hard to find, but it's not impossible. There are many insurance companies competing with one another for your business, and as it seems everything gets more expensive, this can actually work in your favor as more people look to switch to cheaper insurance plans, or in unfortunate cases, drop coverage altogether, which then forces the companies to start dropping rates in order to not only maintain their own clientele, but to also attract new customers, as well.

The main thing is to have perseverance. Keep searching for the plan that's right for you; keep looking for a better price. If you are talking to an insurance agent in person or on the phone, don't be afraid to haggle. You might be surprised how much they are willing to give in order to win over another customer. The other option is to check what you're asking for, and see if there are some minor things you can cut back on to help the over all cost. Keep at it, and you'll find low cost health insurance that works for you. For more information on health insurance, try visiting http://www.healthinsurancedecision.com - a website that specializes in providing health insurance related tips, advice and resources to include information on low cost health insurance. ]]> Plastic Adirondack Chairs - There Are Advantages http://www.artwoo.com/article/plastic-adirondack-chairs-there-are-advantages http://www.artwoo.com/article/plastic-adirondack-chairs-there-are-advantages#comments Mon, 30 Oct 2006 14:27:06 +0000 teak outdoor furnitureadirondack furnitureplastic adirondack chairslawn furnitureadirondack chairplastic furnituredeck furniture http://www.artwoo.com/article/plastic-adirondack-chairs-there-are-advantages lawn furniture adorning the yard. Not only is this smack of desperation or some pathological "penny-pinching" only a streak but cheap lawn or can literally make the entire exterior of your beautiful home seem trite or even comical. Still, there simply is not always room in the budget for some premium and--well, guests need to sit somewhere! While quality-made s may seem like an oxymoron, you may be surprised at just how well these stately pieces of lawn furniture can actually ADD value to your home and impress friends and family alike.

Most of us are aware that Adirondack chairs are typically made from woods such as cedar or pine which is part of the reason why they make such excellent choices for decks, patios, and other exterior areas. The Adirondack chair was in fact originally designed as an outdoor piece of furniture and was a very popular choice for cabins, lake retreats, and other recreational facilities. However, with wood prices continuing to escalate, quality-made plastic Adirondack chairs have become a very popular and logical alternative to the traditional wooden chairs.

New-age plastic Adirondack chairs are actually made of very durable materials that provide both durability and quality. One of the biggest advantages in buying a plastic Adirondack chair is the fact that color and texture are uniform throughout. While made from wood will necessarily wear and reveal places where nicks, scratches or similar damage may have occurred--this is not a problem with plastic and the chair or lounger will remain in pristine condition for years to come.

Now one of the major and very reasonable objections to any type of , let alone Adirondack pieces, is the weight. We have all had experiences or know of examples when a storm blew plastic lawn furniture all over the place. At best, this is an inconvenience and you will need to chase patio chairs and the like all over the place. In many cases, the plastic furniture is damaged and will need to be replaced.

With premium plastic Adirondack chairs, however, this is not a concern. In most cases, the weight of the plastic furniture is comparable to wooden pieces and thus there is little chance for anything to blow away or get damaged. In truth, quality plastic Adirondack chairs are every bit as durable and reliable as the originals but at lowered cost so you can truly adorn your outdoor space in style and comfort. Jesse Akre, owner of numerous outdoor furniture, patio furniture, and home decor websites, makes it easy to find quality painted http://www.eadirondackstyle.com/painted-adirondack-chairs.html and Patio Furniture . Learn how to decorate your outdoor patio and garden in style - Click to satisfy your garden furniture needs: http://www.eadirondackstyle.com/ ]]> Charleston Bans Smoking http://www.artwoo.com/article/charleston-bans-smoking http://www.artwoo.com/article/charleston-bans-smoking#comments Sat, 10 Feb 2007 18:27:07 +0000 charleston city councildamn yankeesoxymoronsmokersunencumberedapparentlygave restaurant http://www.artwoo.com/article/charleston-bans-smoking Unencumbered by Progress for the Past 100 Years." Putting together "cutting edge" and Charleston in the same sentence is an . Recently the heard a rumor about something called second smoke. After a bit of research they were shocked to discover that cities such as LA and New York had banned smoking from public places.

Now, being one of America's favorite vacation destinations, they couldn't let those other popular spots do something they weren't doing. Especially them from New York City. The last time the City got this riled they launched a few cannonballs out into the bay at Ft. Sumter which started the American Civil War.

With much hand wringing and gnashing of teeth by local bar and restaurant owners, Charleston City Council passed a ban on all smoking in public places. The non- in the Low Country are breathing a sigh of relief; the bar and restaurant folks are threatening a law suit. they haven't noticed that it is easier to find a place to park a dumpster then it is to find a place to smoke these days. Courts from one end of the country to the other have upheld these bans.

Generally we come down on the side of the Bill of Rights and the First Amendment's Freedom of Assembly clause. If people want to gather and smoke a legal and highly taxed product, what business is it of local government? If no one is being held against their will in these places, where is the problem? We would find these laws easier to swallow if they the option of being smoking or non-smoking with signs clearly marked on the door. But the promoters of the nanny state are never willing to go along with this.

As non-smokers we've figured out what places to avoid because they are smoked filled. Smoke billowing out to street whenever the front door is opened is usually the first clue. In the West Ashley suburb of Charleston, you learn pretty quickly that you can lose sight of your server in the haze of the smoke at Manny's and the food at the Map Room starts tasting like a nicotine patch after 9 pm. If one of these places wants to become a private club for smokers then let them go at it. Make it illegal for anyone under 18 to enter. If the bar owners think they can make more money than honoring the ban, so be it.

The larger concern is what will they target next? McDonald's french fries haven't been the same since the quit cooking them in lard. Then "trans fats" were bad. Remember "saccharin?" After winning the anti-smoking battle does anyone seriously think the "health Nazis" will disband and start leading a normal, productive life? Don't count on it.

They can pry my key lime pie from my cold dead fingers. Written by John Q. Wilson, author of the Best of Charleston Blog, http://www.mtpleasantguide.com/ and http://www.yourwestashleyguide.com . ]]> How To Utilize Your Co-Workers To Get Ahead: Nice Office Politics http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-utilize-your-co-workers-to-get-ahead-nice-office-politics http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-utilize-your-co-workers-to-get-ahead-nice-office-politics#comments Fri, 24 Aug 2007 04:30:03 +0000 co workersodd man outoffice politicscoworkerscooperationfurther your careeroxymoron http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-utilize-your-co-workers-to-get-ahead-nice-office-politics office politics may sound like an , but only a fool will try to get ahead by acting like a contestant on Survivor or any of the other shows where backstabbing, badmouthing, lying, cheating, and overall nastiness will earn you a spot in the winner's circle. Granted, on national television this looks like a lot of fun =96 to some =96 and the ratings are skyrocketing, but in the long term this kind of approach not only backfires but will leave you unable to gain the respect of your and their . Even if you make it to the next professional level by stepping on people, remember that it is their help with projects and their cooperation you will require to not only keep your position but to also . Even a lowly sales clerk can severely hamper your worth in the eyes of the operational manager if you alienate her while getting the shift manager position and thus can no longer rely on her to get you accurate figures on time, deliver team news, and overall cooperate when you need extra workers to come in during a specially heavy sales day. In an effort to learn how to utilize your co-workers to get ahead, nice office politics are a must.

Perhaps the most important aspect to remember is to always admit your mistakes and never try to pass off responsibility to someone else. In the short term you might come out smelling like a rose, but in the long term resentment will build and soon you will be regarded as the of the team. On the flipside, taking full responsibility for a mistake will showcase honesty, integrity, and will result in your gaining respect not just from coworkers but also from managers. Of course, do not be content to just sit there and throw up your hands in addition to your admission of error, instead, already have a plan in place for how to fix the error and turn the disadvantage into an advantage. This will make you a most desired person on any team, and you are utilizing your co-workers well by becoming a sought after team member.

Utilizing co-workers to get ahead does of course not only rely on your earning their respect and praise but it also means learning to listen to them and understand what it is they communicate to you about you. For example, feedback is given in sometimes not so direct manners. Eye rolling at your suggestion that would create extra work for someone else, raised eyebrows at your idea of trying a new service, enthusiastic nodding at your suggestion of reducing the need of a widget, and any other nonverbal communications will let you know where you stand with your coworkers. Similarly, notice if people come to you with questions or problems, or if you are the only person who is only asked via email to explain something. The latter would be subtle and nonverbal feedback showcasing the fact that you are not considered being approachable in person. To get ahead this might be something you wish to change. By reading clues, as well as asking for direct feedback, you will be able to utilize your co-workers to change your at-work persona into one that fits in well with the company and will be seen as management material.

Frank Nelson is a professional sales person for over 15 years Has discovered wealth in a variety of fields Practices Positive Visualization and has much to offer as we all do have much to offer. To learn about his sharing of wealth and how you can be wealthy too visit his website at http://www.BountifulWealth.com ]]> Marketing Network Scams Capitalize On Your Personality Type http://www.artwoo.com/article/marketing-network-scams-capitalize-on-your-personality-type http://www.artwoo.com/article/marketing-network-scams-capitalize-on-your-personality-type#comments Sun, 30 Dec 2007 08:30:01 +0000 junk mailpersonality typescam artistmarketing networksmooth talkerquestionable businessinferior product http://www.artwoo.com/article/marketing-network-scams-capitalize-on-your-personality-type junk mail before tossing it out? No matter how you answer any of these questions, you are fair game for one or more scams currently in circulation on the Internet or via ads through magazines. As a matter of fact, marketing network scams capitalize on your to such an extent that there is not one kind of personality that is safe from being taken in by a or good looking opportunity. Even being poor and not having any money to spend on a business opportunity will not protect you, since s have found ways to talk the unsuspecting out of money they did not even have to spend!

Interestingly, if you have an analytical mind, you are at the greatest risk of being taken in! While this may appear to be an oxymoron, the facts show that those who analyze information are also those who are compelled by their very nature to do just that - analyze information that is given to them. Thus, a savvy scam artist will present marketing network scams that contain a lot of detailed information and are ready to answer all questions. By appearing to be more knowledgeable than the analytical person who is going over every possible angle of the presentation, they are gaining the consumer's trust and eventually wring a sale for an from them or in the alternative get a buy-in for a opportunity. Knowing full well that an analytical person cannot be pushed, the scam artist will pretend to have integrity and wait rather than pitch, follow up rather than pressure - and this is how the consumer gets hooked.

Sometimes mistaken for being analytical is the conflict avoider. This individual will gladly read anything given to them because they do not want to say no. They will chat with the scam artist because they do not want to seem rude. This is where the weakness comes in: marketing network scams rely on such a person's inability to say an outright now and thus the scam artist will present an opportunity that is so good that the conflict avoider will be able to rationalize saying yes. If you find yourself in such a position, your only way out is to refuse any and all contact with a scam artist and instead ask anyone calling you to send things in writing.

Perhaps the most unlikely victim - in their own eyes - yet one of the most frequently scammed is the business minded powerhouses. You will recognize them by their intelligence, knowledge of the market and its foibles, conversant on a number of subjects, and able to spot a fake a mile away. Yet in their very security and self-confidence lies their greatest weakness: the unwillingness to recognize that they can be taken by marketing network scams quickly and easily! As a matter of fact, scam artists find that these individuals are the easiest to con since they only require the scam artist to be a better talker, analyst of facts, and purveyor of reasons why the opportunity is great than the individual being scammed being able to do the opposite. Almost like a chess match, the one with the most arguments left on the board wins.

The bottom line: When you are reading an email or an Internet website thinking about or looking for a business, make certain you read everything and understand before you commit to anything. David Hayes, of http://DrHayes4U.com can help you build residual income with your very own website of a Proven Internet Business featuring automated income streams, to cure your financial woes.... guaranteed! Visit: http://www.DrHayes4U.com/ ]]> Walking For Increased Health http://www.artwoo.com/article/walking-for-increased-health http://www.artwoo.com/article/walking-for-increased-health#comments Wed, 30 Aug 2006 00:27:16 +0000 maximum heart rateintensity exercisetargetminimal riskpedometermultiplydependable schedule http://www.artwoo.com/article/walking-for-increased-health pedometer attached to their body to inform them of exactly how many miles they manage to walk around the office every day.

Make no bones about it, the walking you do every day at work certainly is burning calories. However, if it was sufficient to get you into the shape you want to be in, you probably wouldn't be reading this article right now.

Walking with your health in mind requires that you set aside time each day to walk specifically with that goal in mind. You're going to be walking in a different way than you do around the office and you want to be able to maintain a consistent and .

Your goal is going to be increasing your heart rate and maintaining the accelerated rate for at least thirty minutes. Getting your heart rate up is simply a matter of walking faster and letting your arms swing as you walk. Regarding your heart rate, you should do a quick bit of math to determine your . Reduce the number 220 by your current age; the result is your maximum heart rate.

Walking is a low , so your aim should be to get your heart rate up to around 60 percent of your maximum heart rate. So, for instance, if you're currently 40 years old, then taking 40 away from 220 gives you 180. Sixty percent of 180 is 108 beats per minute, which becomes your approximate . The easiest measure of your heart rate is to check your pulse for 10 seconds and that number by 6.

Alright already, enough math. Let's get back to walking!

As with most low intensity exercises, walking carries only a of strain or injury so it's safe for nearly everyone. Even though it's a low intensity exercise, however; you should still set goals for yourself to increase the challenge of walking. To accomplish this, you can either gradually increase the amount of time you walk while you keep the pace the same, or you can increase the pace while keeping the amount of time you walk the same.

One way to keep your interest level high for walking is to have a variety of different places to walk. While it may sound strange to some, there is nothing wrong with getting in your car and driving somewhere to walk! The fresh scenery will be a welcome change.

Another way to maintain your interest in walking, actually, is to find a partner to walk with. Unlike running and other high intensity exercises, walking still allows you to carry on a conversation. Even if you opt not to chat while walking, having the company can still bolster your willpower.

While I have walked with a partner and enjoyed the experience, I find walking alone to be more rewarding. I realized after about a month of walking that I was actually beginning to practice walking meditation.

I know that, to many of you, walking meditation sounds like an oxymoron. Meditation is often times perceived as an almost hypnotic trance which requires sitting in one place for a long time.

In reality, meditation is heightened state of awareness in which your entire focus is centered on the present moment. So, while walking, I focus my attention on my breathing, on the movement of my body, and on the environment around me. I find my thoughts wander occasionally and I'll start thinking about the past or the future; when I notice this I simply bring my focus and concentration back to the present moment.

Even if you've never had an interest in practicing meditation, I strongly encourage you to try just being present while you walk. Try keeping your focus on the three things I mentioned above. You'll probably find, as I did, that your walking begins to take on a new dimension. Gray Rollins is a featured writer for http://www.secretsofthehealthy.com. For more great health tips, be sure to stop by the forum at http://www.secretsofthehealthy.com/forum/ ]]> Good Stress is Not an Oxymoron: Don't Take Stress Management Too Far Or You'll Die of Boredom http://www.artwoo.com/article/good-stress-is-not-an-oxymoron-dont-take-stress-management-too-far-or-youll-die-of-boredom http://www.artwoo.com/article/good-stress-is-not-an-oxymoron-dont-take-stress-management-too-far-or-youll-die-of-boredom#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:43:20 +0000 world class athletestress management techniquesmental health professionalsprimitive ancestorspositive stressnegative stresstype of stress http://www.artwoo.com/article/good-stress-is-not-an-oxymoron-dont-take-stress-management-too-far-or-youll-die-of-boredom
We continually seek out the latest in to achieve a less stressful life. To some degree, this is a good idea - constant should be reduced whenever possible. However, there's another side to stress - a positive side that's frequently overlooked.

and doctors even have a name for : "eustress". Eustress refers to the constructive stress that helps keep you motivated and driven in all aspects of your life. For example, an athlete may find a big game stressful, but the nerves and excitement of this eustress encourages him or her to push harder and play better.

In this case, stress is a temporary response that brings about positive changes - such as the drive to play better. This is a very different phenomena than a long-term that eats away at the athlete's health and well-being.

So maybe you're not a world-class athlete - that doesn't mean you don't experience eustress in your own life. Maybe you get the same rush from performing in a community theater presentation or use the boost of stress to help inject energy into an important presentation at work. Perhaps you're someone who turns the stress of gaining weight into an impetus to spend more time at the gym.

Having a small amount of stress in our lives drives us to excel in everything we do and it enables us to feel content with life and the choices we've made. Therefore, getting rid of stress entirely is not only impossible - it wouldn't be healthy to do anyways!

We also need small amounts of stress in our lives to respond to the various threats and dangers we occasionally encounter. In this case, stress is part of the fight-or-flight response - a holdover from our . When we detect the presence of danger, our bodies kick into high gear.

They release the hormone cortisol which increases the level of sugar in our blood. Our breathing rate increases and oxygen fills our muscles in preparation to either fight the threat or flee from it. Without this physiological response, we wouldn't be able to defend ourselves nearly as well against all sorts of dangers and intrusions.

While it's clear that too much stress can wreak havoc with your overall health, doctors and mental health specialists have found that too little stress can also be harmful. Negative stress causes a wide range of emotional and physical problems that can inhibit your energy and drive.

On the other hand, as long as it's reasonable and not excessive, a certain amount of stress plays a positive role in helping us fulfill our dreams and in enabling us to protect ourselves in times of danger. This eustress can give you the determination that's needed to work long and hard to accomplish your goals and will better equip you to handle the negative stress in your life.And if you want to achieve a little bit more balance between good and bad stress, you are invited to get Elisabeth Kuhn's FREE report with seven stress-reducing strategies. If you want Elisabeth's full-sized version instead, with lots more strategies (including an introduction to EFT or Emotional Freedom Technique), here's instant stress relief.]]> Stress Relief Games Are Not an Oxymoron - How to Lower Your Stress by Playing Games Online and Off http://www.artwoo.com/article/stress-relief-games-are-not-an-oxymoron-how-to-lower-your-stress-by-playing-games-online-and-off http://www.artwoo.com/article/stress-relief-games-are-not-an-oxymoron-how-to-lower-your-stress-by-playing-games-online-and-off#comments Mon, 04 Aug 2008 03:15:19 +0000 stress relief gamesstress hormonesbales of haystress overloadexcess stresstension reliefstress relief http://www.artwoo.com/article/stress-relief-games-are-not-an-oxymoron-how-to-lower-your-stress-by-playing-games-online-and-off games? Not too long ago, I hadn't even heard of the concept. But then, life used to be a whole lot less stressful. Most people's daily routines gave them all the they needed. But times have changed. In the age of multi-tasking and ever-expanding workloads, we need all the help we can get to allow our bodies and our emotions to recover from that constant .

One effective way to ease stress is by physical activity, and sitting in front of a computer all day doesn't qualify. People used to haul , sweep stairs, or plough fields as part of their days' work, and if they were stressed, that surely would have taken care of excess . But what are we supposed to do in cubicle world?

As it turns out, stress relief games, some of them available right on your computer, are just the ticket. If you're an internet junkie, you probably know all about them already. There are entire websites that specialize in games for stress relief.

If you'd rather get away from the computer, though, there are some excellent offline games you can play as well.

The key is to find games that offer an escape from stress rather than create more of it. Some computer games can easily have the opposite effect from what you want to achieve. You want games that take your mind off whatever is causing tension by making you focus on something else. But you don't want to start getting stressed all over again.

Here's a case in point of what can happen: personally, I find Sudoku quite relaxing - but only if it's not too difficult. It has to be hard enough to be absorbing, but not so hard that I'm starting to worry that I can't solve it. Some people actually time themselves when doing Sudoku - probably part of making it competitive, but that would spoil it for me.

Here are 5 of the best stress relief games you play to tame excess tension

1. Card games, like Solitaire, that involve logical thinking. You can do these on the computer or the traditional way with a deck of cards.

2. Word games that use your creative and logical thinking processes. When you involve both sides of your brain in an activity, there is little room to focus on the stress.

3. Puzzles of various kinds, like chess, checkers and crosswords. Challenges that are not stressful can be both fulfilling and a relief. These are especially good if your stress is being caused by an especially difficult project. Winning a few games helps restore your confidence and puts you in a better frame of mind to tackle that project. Oh, and of course, Sudoku belongs in that category.

4. Computer games can be fun and relaxing or stressful, so choose wisely. Arcade games can relieve a lot of pent-up tension and anger, but if a time limit is put on the game, this can add to your stress level. If you are adversely affected by certain games, choose different ones next time.

5. Games involving physical activity are especially good for relieving stress, especially if they're played outdoors. Tennis and golf are two time-tested favorites. The physical exertion decreases the levels of stress hormones that have built up in your body.

Next time you feel the tension rising, take a break. Search online for games that you can enjoy while reducing your stress levels. If time and opportunity permit, get away for awhile. Hit the golf course or tennis court for a quick game.Want some stress relief yourself? Get Elisabeth Kuhn's FREE report with seven stress busting strategies.Or visit her eclectic self help blog for lots more resources for body, mind, spirit, and prosperity.]]> Pro Or No: Taxes And The Home Business http://www.artwoo.com/article/pro-or-no-taxes-and-the-home-business http://www.artwoo.com/article/pro-or-no-taxes-and-the-home-business#comments Fri, 22 Feb 2008 00:20:02 +0000 home business ownerpitter patterinternal revenue serviceal caponeseason christmasspring rainpublic accountants http://www.artwoo.com/article/pro-or-no-taxes-and-the-home-business Internal Revenue Service has its hands full every April when Uncle Sam holds his hand out with his fingers gently waving towards himself saying, "Show me the money." At that same time Certified burn the midnight fluorescent bulb with the hopes of finding pleasing results for ignorant clients. Across town in the basement of an office, which his children affectionately call "the dungeon," the typical fiercely rubs his own brow in the hopes of finding just one more deduction. Tax season has arrived.



The typical home business owner stresses out more in April than in any other season. Christmas, when his business may be booming and orders come in faster than he can write them down, or summer when his clients are demanding things that no sane person would demand in the midst of gorgeous, sunny days that call his name almost audibly to come and play-both of these seasons pale in comparison to April. The home business owner has two basic options and one non-negotiable choice to make regarding taxes.

First and foremost, we must consider the non-negotiable choices, which in and of itself is an oxymoron. He must pay his taxes. While nothing might please him more than just relaxing in April, listening to the pitter-patter of and thinking about the tulips pushing their delicates leaves through his moistened soil, he must pay his taxes. Though he dreams about finding Uncle Sam in person and simply telling him where to put his blankety-blank forms, he must pay his taxes. And though he wants nothing more than to just forget that he had an incredible year with oodles of income that means his family can now take that coveted vacation to Disney World, he must pay his taxes.

After all, history has shown him the results of those who do not pay their taxes. , for example, ordered executions of some of his own men who betrayed him. He ran black market liquor operations in the midst of prohibition, and yet what did police finally send him to prison with? Tax evasion. Consider this: if Capone had simply done what every home business owner curses about every 12 months, he could have gone on with his luxurious, whacking-the-other-guy life. Business owners, good and bad, must pay their taxes.

Home business owners then have a basic choice once they move past the non-negotiable decision of whether or not to pay in the first place. Who will file their taxes? Will they turn to a Certified Public Accountant, the lady or guy down the street that actually obtained a degree and passed an extensive, written exam focused on just this sort of thing, or will they consider a box with a silver disc that tells them how to file? Their choice will ultimately determine a couple of things. First, it will determine how much they will pay in taxes. Second, it will determine if the IRS will flag them as suspicious and demand an audit, which will mean at least another month of stress. Certainly both the CPA and the cardboard box have their benefits.

Regardless of what the home business owner chooses, he should take care to save every receipt possible throughout the year. When he does this, taxes become less of a burden regardless of who does the filing. If he chooses to file, he will have the necessary documentation when he wants to deduct that package of Bic pens that he bought back in May. If he chooses the CPA, then the CPA will have the necessary documentation. Ultimately, it does not matter who does the taxes at this point, because either party needs the receipt.

Taxes clearly burden the business owner. However, we all must pay them, business owner or not. In the end, the final burden rests on the one who writes the check, thus business owners must consider their options carefully to see who can help them retain the most profit. Jim Biscardi is owner of Dynamic Wealth Systems, LLC and writes on a variety of subjects. To learn more about this topic Jim recommends you visit: http://www.DynamicWealthSystems.com ]]> Strategies For Stressless Holiday Entertaining http://www.artwoo.com/article/strategies-for-stressless-holiday-entertaining http://www.artwoo.com/article/strategies-for-stressless-holiday-entertaining#comments Mon, 04 Dec 2006 10:27:07 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/article/strategies-for-stressless-holiday-entertaining Stressless entertaining is fast becoming an oxymoron. With parties and social gatherings growing more and more elaborate, with everyone trying to outdo each other, hosting a get-together is a difficult task to undertake any time of year. Throw in some holiday chaos and it's downright nerve-wracking.

Maybe in our eagerness to impress and bedazzle our guests, we're missing the point entirely. Warm, relaxing, convivial social interaction should be our main concern when rolling out the welcome mat. Here are some strategies, excerpted from my new book "400 Ways to Stop Stress Now...and Forever!", that will help you keep your eye on that objective.

Have small intimate get-togethers.

Big parties are expensive, time-consuming and a heck of a lot of work. Even if you're lucky enough to talk with everyone, it may only amount to brief, cursory snippets of conversation. A big bash can be fun, sure, if you're not the one throwing it. Smaller parties are easier to arrange, less work, less expensive, and leave lots of time to enjoy your guests, who feel more special, too. Entertain fewer people...more often.

Keep the menu simple.

There's no need to overwhelm your guests with more choices than necessary. An hors d' oeuvre, a main dish, a couple of side dishes, and dessert is plenty. It will save you time and money, and make entertaining easy enough that you'll want to do it more often. Overdoing it also unfairly raises the stakes for guests who want to reciprocate. Focus on the quality of what you serve, not the quantity, and on making your visitors feel relaxed and comfortable. Your parties can't help but turn out special.

Expect people to cancel out on you.

Last-minute dropouts and no-shows can be disappointing -- especially when you've gone to a lot of trouble. Blame it on our over-scheduled times, a general slackening of social responsibility, whatever. But this, unfortunately, is the way things are. So be ready for it. If you're planning an event or activity involving several people, expect one or more will almost certainly cancel. Invite or recruit extra people to make up for the inevitable loss. And if everyone does show up (slim chance), you'll enjoy an unanticipated bonus.

Invite someone over for coffee.

Or tea, or a glass of wine, or a beer, if that's your preference. Somehow this simple, casual way to connect with others during the holiday season has lost ground to more elaborate and expensive forms of entertaining. But informal drop-by visits with friends and neighbors is a great way to catch up, share experiences, vent concerns, and give yourself a needed break from the rat race. Pure, uplifting social interaction...without all the fuss. Try it.

Entertaining is supposed to be fun, remember?

When you throw a dinner party or host a gathering, it's not an audition, you're not on trial and your guests aren't judges and juries. Yet that's how you might see it -- something to fret about, even dread. Which, if you're worried things won't go well, will all but assure it. Remember, it's not about you. It's about inviting people into your home and making them feel welcome and comfortable. If you're tense and unsure, that's what they'll pick up on. (How many times have you attended a tautly wound event and had a perfectly lousy time?) So make it fun. Be casual, gracious, spontaneous. You'll be a hit, and so will your party. G. Gaynor McTigue is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA). His sixth book "400 Ways to Stop Stress Now...and Forever!" has just been published. To learn more contact 203-254-7789, jerrym321@aol.com or visit http://www.pickmeupbooks.com ]]> Drinking In Comfort With Gas Lift Bar Stools http://www.artwoo.com/article/drinking-in-comfort-with-gas-lift-bar-stools http://www.artwoo.com/article/drinking-in-comfort-with-gas-lift-bar-stools#comments Sat, 26 May 2007 20:15:00 +0000 bar stoolsbar stooloxymoronergonomicsconundrumergonomic valuemantra http://www.artwoo.com/article/drinking-in-comfort-with-gas-lift-bar-stools bar stool.

Gas Lift Bar Stool: An The term gas lift stool is something of a . Why is it called a gas lift bar stool? For one, there is no gasoline involved in the operation of the stool. For another, a gas lift bar stool cannot be lifted; only its seat can be. A gas lift bar stool is one that allows its users to change its height in relation to how tall a bar or desk may be. A gas lift bar stool's seat can be lifted and lowered at the whim of its user.

The Gas in Gas Lift In 1972, inventor Drabert Soehne from Minden, Germany obtained the patent to produce a gas spring that helps in the adjusting of chairs. This is the "gas" in gas lift bar stools. Whether he realized it or not, Soehen's invention not only made stools more comfortable, it also improved their .

Ergonomic Bar Stools is an applied science that relates to the design and arrangement of the objects that people use. Its purpose is to help people and objects interact in the safest and most efficient manner possible. Biotechnology is another term for ergonomics. One of the foundations of ergonomics is the that "one size does not fit all." Choosing a bar stool that is comfortable and adjustable is a concern that falls under this mantra. There is more to ergonomics, however. In a bar, an ergonomical system would also include the beer and plate of buffalo wings set on the table. Similarly, the gas lift bar stools you can sit on, the bar in front of you, the television raised behind the bar, and even the bar itself form part of the ergonomical system

Vikings, Wishbones and Squares A variety of gas lift bar stools with different styles, features and names, are in the market today.

Three Gas Lift Bar Stool: As its name suggests, the Three stool has squares on it. There is a square for the steel base, another one for the imitation leather seat, and a third for the back. The sturdy base prevents the stool from tipping when you are tipsy, and the footrest and backrest give you some additional support.



Tokyo Gas Lift Bar Stool: What makes the Tokyo gas lift bar stool special is the combination of its metal-plated base, footrest, and stem. Additionally, it has an attractive wooden seat top. It combines Asian artistry with Western pragmatism.

Viking Gas Lift Bar Stool: The Viking gas lift bar stool was named in honor of ancient pirate Scandinavians. It resembles the traditional horned Viking helmets that you see in world history textbooks and in operas. Even more interesting, its two footrests even look like the battle axes of Vikings!

Wishbone Gas Lift Bar Stool: The Wishbone swivel stool boasts of a solid steel base plated with metal, a footrest, an imitation-leather seat with turning action, and metal armrests. The stool's name comes from its wishbone-shaped arms. Breaking the stool won't bring you good luck.

Gas lift bar stools give you the comfort you expect and deserve. In a world where comfort is king, gas lift bar stools are a fine addition to any place. They lift you while you lift your mug. Discover just how comfortable and chic gas lift bar stools ( http://www.simplybarstools.co.uk/roma-gas-lift-bar-stool-p-568.html ) can be when you visit http://SimplyBarStools.co.uk today. From breakfast stools ( http://www.simplybarstools.co.uk/ ) to bistro tables ( http://www.simplybarstools.co.uk/tables-c-11.html ), the site offers a diverse selection of furniture. ]]> Internet Marketing Conference Success: Take This Quiz To See If You've Got What It Takes http://www.artwoo.com/article/internet-marketing-conference-success-take-this-quiz-to-see-if-youve-got-what-it-takes http://www.artwoo.com/article/internet-marketing-conference-success-take-this-quiz-to-see-if-youve-got-what-it-takes#comments Wed, 16 Jan 2008 23:20:00 +0000 internet marketing conferenceoutskirts of townscraps of paperfalse quizinvestment worthmaximum savingscostly errors http://www.artwoo.com/article/internet-marketing-conference-success-take-this-quiz-to-see-if-youve-got-what-it-takes Internet Marketing Conference? Doesn't that sound like an oxymoron? If it's an online world, why meet in person? That's exactly it! You've got a special opportunity to distinguish yourself from all the other millions of people in cyberspace. They will not be there in person. They will not meet their favorite guru face to face. You will!

Okay. You're convinced. But how do you go about it the right way? Conferences can cost a lot of money. What do you have to do to make the your while?

It's not that hard. Just be sure to start on the right foot before you even leave though. To help you with , here's a true and to help you find out if you're ready to make the most of an internet conference:

1. Online marketing is supposed to stay online. Meeting people in person is a complete waste of time and money. (T or F)

2. Online marketers are a casual bunch. Jeans and ratty old t-shirts are perfectly adequate for an internet marketing conference. (T or F)

3. I love surprises. The best part of going to conferences will be to discover who's there. Reading up beforehand would just spoil the fun. (T or F)

4. I hate crowds. So when I do have to go to a conference, I'll drag along a friend and spend the entire conference with him or her. (T or F)

5. Business cards are tacky. If I really hit it off with someone I meet, we can always exchange information on or the program guide. (T or F)

6. The conference hotel is way too expensive. I'm going to stay at a cheaper hotel on the instead. (T or F)

7. I'll schedule my flights for . Arriving late and leaving early is the way to go. (T or F)

How did you do? Let's take a look:

1. False. Remember, it's who you know, not just what you know. You'll meet and make friends with people who might never so much as return your email otherwise. Like with so many things, the secret lies in showing up.

2. False. Sure, being able to work in your PJs is one of the perks of internet marketing and many marketers agree. But a lot of them do enjoy dressing up for special occasions, and a conference is such a special occasion. With video and cameras everywhere, they want to look as good as they can. You better do too. Dress as a professional if you want to be treated like one.

3. False. This is not the time and place to play "guess who?" If you want to make your conference a success, better find out in advance who will be there. And do your homework. Know what they do. Read some of their work. You'll get much more out of the conference that way, and you'll be much more likely to make connections.

4. False. The point of a conference is to meet new people and to make and renew contacts. Sure, you can bring a friend or your partner, but don't plan on spending a lot of time with them. Expect them to do their own networking.

5. False. Business cards are professional. Bring lots. Make sure that the contact information is current and that the links work. Nothing screams "amateur" like dead links and crossed-out email addresses and phone numbers!

6. False. Staying at the conference hotel is crucial. You'll be where the action is. If you need a break, you can take a quick nap upstairs without having to trek through half the town. You won't have to lug around bags of goodies all day but can drop them off in our room. You can bring your own materials and products and replenish your supply whenever you run low. You've invested in airfare and the conference itself. Don't blow it by trying to save in the wrong place.

7. False. Get there at least the night before the conference. You'll be well-rested for greater effectiveness. And definitely don't leave until the morning after if at all possible. Breakfast is a great time for follow-up meetings, and you might bump into the very people you've been trying to catch up with all weekend. Besides, lots of great networking happens before the crowds arrive and after the pressure is off.

Your score: 3 or less: Either adjust your attitude or save your money and stay home.

4-6: You're an average conference attendee. You may have some successes, but you can do a lot better. Take a few pointers from the answers you missed.

All 7 correct: You're a pro at attending conferences. And I bet you knew that! Congratulations. If you're ready to meet your favorite guru, find a JV partner, or learn some new tricks, this upcoming internet marketing conference has it all: http://www.meetaguru.info And be sure to visit Elisabeth's eclectic self-help blog http://www.myfavoriteselfhelpstuff.com for more tips and resources. ]]> How To Find Small Sectional Sofas For Small Spaces http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-find-small-sectional-sofas-for-small-spaces http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-find-small-sectional-sofas-for-small-spaces#comments Fri, 01 Feb 2008 10:20:00 +0000 small sectional sofassofa piecessectional sofatwo chairscreative touchtight spacehonest answer http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-find-small-sectional-sofas-for-small-spaces sectional sofa for a small space probably appears to be an oxymoron. How could there possibly be a perfect meeting of the two?

Well, the is that in the right home, a sectional sofa could actually save you space! Centrally locating within a small living area not only lends to proper seating for conversation and intimacy, but could also make the space feel more spacious.

If seating in one specific spot is not to your liking, with sectional pieces you have the ability to place them however you prefer. This would lend your own personal to the living room.

Explained

Now that you know that small sectional sofas are available, you may be asking yourself a few questions. For instance, what would be considered too large or too small for a small sectional sofa?

Good question!

Generally, your living room or living area would dictate the size needed for a small sectional sofa. This is why it is important to take measurements before making a purchase to ensure the sofa pieces would not overpower the small living area. And I will be discussing the measurements of small sectional sofas more in depth below.

However, before going any further, the primary question should be answered, and that is what would be considered a small sectional sofa?

When looking at the number of pieces that make up a small sectional sofa set, 3 pieces are usually the starting point. When furnishing a small living space, anything over 3 to 4 pieces would typically overwhelm the space. You want to make small rooms appear larger and cramming furniture into a would not be conducive to a spacious feeling.

Measurements for a Small Scale Sectional Sofa

Now that we know what makes up a small sectional sofa, we can get down to business on measurements. To get an idea of what makes up a sectional sofa set, all that is necessary is taking the measurements of a small scale sofa or loveseat and one or , and then adding them all together.

And once you've done that, voila! You have the necessary measurements to define what makes a small scale sectional sofa set.

Let's go over the measurements now...

* A small scale sofa is generally 72" or smaller. * To come up with a small scale chair, you would simply divide the measurements of a small scale sofa (72") by 3 and then you have the size of a small scale chair, which is 24" wide.

Or, let's consider option number two...

* A small scale loveseat is generally 63" wide. * To come up with a small scale chair, you would simply divide the measurements of a small scale loveseat (63") by 2 and then you have the size of a small scale chair, which is 31.5" wide.

Add those numbers together and here is what you get...

* 72 + 24 + 24 = 120" wide * 63 + 31.5 + 31.5 = 126" wide

Now you have a starting point for the scale of a small sectional sofa.

A starting point for a small scale sectional sofa set is 120 - 126" wide.

As for the stopping point, you can simply add on an additional 24-31.5". The stopping point is simply the size that you wouldn't want to go past for risk of the sectional sofa being too large.

I took the liberty of adding 31.5" to 126" wide sectional sofa to come up with the stopping point of 157.5" wide.

Having a stopping point gives you some leeway. By finding a sectional sofa that falls between 120 - 157", you have room to work with in your small space. Remember to take measurements first because a 157" sectional sofa may be perfect for one living area, but considered too large for another.

Also, a few simple guidelines on sectional sofa sizes to consider may help.

* 120-130" would be perfect for a small scale solution. * 145" would be a nice mid-size range for small homes. * 157" would be a great size if you can afford the space.

Now that we know the specific measurements for a small scale sectional sofa, how should you go about choosing one?

Choosing the Ideal Small Scale Sectional Sofa Set

When looking to purchase a sectional sofa, it would be a wise decision to locate a home furnishing store or website that sells each piece individually or as a whole. That way, if a set is too large you could subtract a couple of pieces and if a desired set is too small, you could add an extra piece. The ability to choose particular pieces allows you to mix and match, therefore, creating your own unique signature "look".

One place you can find a nice selection is at Marketplace.Furniture-for-Small-Spaces.com. It will link you up to a nice variety of small scale sectional sofas that can be customized according to your space, style and needs.

To Sum Up

Measurements of small scale sectional sofas have been clearly defined. Sectional sofas in the range of 120-130" wide would be ideal if you do not have the additional space. If space allows, you could increase the stopping point of the sectional sofa to 145" or even 157" wide.

Locate home furnishing establishments that allow you to purchase a sectional sofa as a whole or piece by piece. That way, if the sofa you desire is too large, you can knock off a few pieces to accommodate your small space.

In addition, if you wanted to be creative, you could mix and match different colors and patterns. This would lend a unique personal "stamp" to your home d=E9cor.

Having said all of that, remember that nothing is ever "carved in stone". The bottom line and the deciding factor is what is best for you and is most conducive to your lifestyle and taste in home furnishings. Tameka Norris runs a website called Furniture for Small Spaces (http://www.furniture-for-small-spaces.com). It offers nifty tips and tactics, a Q and A section for people in need of answers, photos of her own small space trials and projects for the DIYer. ]]> Why Does Google Penalise Webmasters -- Are They Evil? http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-does-google-penalise-webmasters-are-they-evil http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-does-google-penalise-webmasters-are-they-evil#comments Thu, 13 Nov 2008 05:22:29 +0000 passing judgementsearch positionslarge corporationscorporate entityfair gameran onegoogle http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-does-google-penalise-webmasters-are-they-evil Google! So budding webmasters jump online, read a few forum posts and try to get their site ranked on the first page of Google. Many people, however, stumble at the first or second 'SEO hurdle' and either struggle to get rankings, to no avail, or get some decent positions only to then be slapped with a Google penalty!

It's not just newbie website owners trying to promote themselves that get hit by penalties by the mighty Google Gods, and even some SEO companies are also for a penalty if they don't act within Google's terms.

So, Why Do Google Penalise? -- Are they really that Evil?

Like any argument, there are always two sides (At Least!). On the one side, the webmaster whose livelihood may depend on high Google rankings can understandably feel aggrieved by any penalty that Google may impose on them, after all, if someone in the 'real world' did something that could potentially shut down your business, then one would be rightfully P*#sed off at them!

It would pay for webmasters both small and large (No, I am not talking about waist girth here either!) to try to understand Google's motivations a little before though. Whilst Google may seem like some huge that can never be hurt, it may well be that like a wounded animal, Google penalised you in defence...

Look at it this way, if you of the largest, most successful companies in history -- and your continued success depended on you returning the most relevant results for any given search term, which of course you do, due to the great algorithm you invented (An algorithm that, by the way, completely revolutionised the way that search engines... well, search!) -- And then people came along and tried to manipulate their , what would you do?

If you allowed people to manipulate their search positions, what would happen? Would you still bring the most relevant results for any given search? -- If not, would you maintain your current position as the market leader in online search?

What would you do? Would you stand by and watch your company suffer, or would you act to stop the manipulation of your search results?

Once you understand that Google motivation for penalising webmasters and their respective websites is all about protecting their business, perhaps you may judge them a little less for the penalties they dish out.

It is unfortunate though, that some webmasters are 'taken for a ride' by certain SEO companies that promise to get them 1st page Google rankings, and use dodgy techniques that manipulate Google's search results, and risk getting the website banned.

How To Avoid Google Penalties.

Avoiding penalties that Google dish out to websites they suspect are manipulating their own search positions is pretty simple... don't try to manipulate your search position!

While this may sound ridiculous, it isn't really! You can still ensure your site ranks highly without resorting to trying to manipulate Google's algorithm.

Try to think about why Google penalises... to protect its business by making sure it continues to return the most relevant results. On that basis, don't waste your money with people that promise to get you ranked JUST by building links... that IS and probably ALWAYS will be in breach of Google's terms!

In contrast, an SEO company that takes a broader view of Search Engine Optimisation can help your site a great deal.

The sort of work that SHOULD be done by an SEO company is checking your websites structure, internal linkage, and making sure there are no errors.

Next they would ensure that you have no 'bad SEO' techniques in place on your site, nor anything that the Googlebot could possibly mistake for 'bad SEO'.

After this, advice should be given about how your site can be made more informative and accessible to your visitors, including how to keep the site relevant. There are a few on page factors that need to be considered, such a page title tags, heading tags etc. All of these, whilst they should be optimised for the search engines, should be optimised in a way that just helps confirm the relevancy of a page, and not in a way to 'trick' the Google algorithm.

It is hard to choose an ethical SEO companies as, to some extent, this is an oxymoron. All SEO companies are employed to raise your search engine rankings, and so the line between 'Ethical' and 'Grey Hat' SEO is a very fine one. If in doubt, be sure to pick a company that will be transparent, and will treat your site as an individual business, and not merely a statistic to be worked on.

Truly ethical SEO companies will be fine about taking the time to chat about your site, and they will make a custom plan about how your site can be improved, and how you can promote your online business without slipping into the old, tired techniques that may get you a Google penalty.kingpin-seo.co.uk are leaders in the field of forward thinking Ethical SEO. They provide excellent SEO services for their clients, enabling them to access the huge market that the web has to offer. Choose kingpin-seo for search engine optimisation uk ]]> Build Muscle Mass At Any Age http://www.artwoo.com/article/build-muscle-mass-at-any-age http://www.artwoo.com/article/build-muscle-mass-at-any-age#comments Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:57:17 +0000 course supplementsprotecting your heartgood fatslean proteinfruits and vegetableswhole grainsfree weights http://www.artwoo.com/article/build-muscle-mass-at-any-age free weights or machines designed for a specific purpose. However any form of weight training puts stress on your body and detrimental effects need to be guarded against. Therefore it is imperative that prior to beginning any strenuous activity you clear yourself with the medical people. There is absolutely no reason to induce a heart attack if not having a heart attack is your goal!

Reality is that when you ingest more calories than you burn throughout a day you will inevitably gain weight. Nutrition is the KEY to increasing your muscle mass through exercise. You can no more put a body through a work out program without proper intake of food than you can drive your Buick to the mountains without filling the gas tank. The key word is PROPER food. It is time to grab hold of the . and a source of are a must. And do not forget to add fat into your diet. Sounds like an oxymoron to suggest intake of fat when your goal is to reduce the amount your body carries. Fat is necessary to our diet. However you need to choose the .

Omega 3 is the fat that is high on the good list. This fatty acid is instrumental in aiding digestion as well as well as having a cardioprotective ability. And is what this is all about. Sources of this oil include fishes such as salmon, walnuts, olive oil, beans and flaxseed. And of . Choice is up to you but please understand the benefits of this fat.

Along with choosing the proper nutrition for building muscle mass is the methodology of ingesting these calories. Current thoughts are that a number of small meals spread throughout the day is much better than two or three larger meals at the commonplace breakfast, lunch and dinner. We are seeking higher metabolism in order to burn calories and increase muscle. Also by spreading your intake of protein, carbohydrates and fats over the higher number of meals you provide a consistent source of fuel to maximize your body's ability to build muscle.

Time for the work! This is the area to engage the services of an expert. Get some help setting up a good routine for your age and beginning abilities. If you really want to build muscle you must keep challenging your body. The object is to stress the muscles but not to injure them. This is where you will begin to see some change. However your body has a tendency to adapt to the stress so you will occasionally need to change your weight training routine. Another plus of changing the routine is that you can reduce the boredom of the training. Absolutely no chance of gaining muscle and losing fat through weight training if you get bored the first week and quit.

To engage in a weight training program in our "senior years" necessitates more than a bit of intelligence. This is not the time to try to impress the boys at muscle beach. Your object should be to increase your muscle mass while reducing your body fat. This probably should not be a daily task. If you can set a training schedule of two or three days per week for an hour at a time you will gain significantly. Whatever weight routines you choose you should limit the amount of weight lifted in each one while increasing the number of repetitions performed. The increased reps will help tone the muscles you have while aiding your body to add mass to them.

The routine that you and your trainer choose should contain about eight to ten different exercises. These exercises should be designed to target separate areas such as back, shoulders, arms and chest. Performing each one two or three times for eight to twelve reps per workout should give you the progress that you will like. Please remember to include your age and prior condition into the formula and DO NOT hurt yourself needlessly.

Now we have nutrition coupled with the workout itself. The final addition to this fitness formula MUST be rest. And by rest we really mean SLEEP. Recovery time is a crucial part of strength training. A sixty year old who has not exercised in years quite obviously requires more recuperation time than a twenty year old brick layer! Do not be foolish. Attempt to sleep eight or nine hours per night. This will give your body time to repair, grow and remodel. Also by resting we help ourselves continue with the workout routine. If you are continually bored and tired you will not keep up the good work.

You are older. You must understand that weight training will not produce the muscle mass at sixty as it did at twenty or thirty. However it will produce muscle mass. At any age there is no reason not to look and feel good. While you must be aware of your age do not dwell on it. Consider your beginning abilities and your desire to improve. Combine those two with how much effort you are putting into it and you will grow. Results are a result of the effort you put in and not based solely on how old you are.

So here we are. Nutrition, weight training and rest (sleep). Put into action and you will regain flexibility, increase metabolism (your ability to burn calories) and protect your immune system. A precise combination of these three will provide you with the maximum results. Feel better, look better, and above all LIVE LONGER!glchandler is an early senior (62) who is attempting to live his words and get on with life. Although disabled approximately eight years I have decided I do wish to live longer and better. Hope to see you around the gym! Http://www.escapeyourshape.info http://www.squidoo.com/musclemusclemuscle]]>