The Friday Five 2.1.19
College savings tricks
It’s never too early to start thinking about ways to help your kids save while they are in college, especially for us as we face the reality that Natalie will be headed off to school in the Fall. Check out these easy tips to help your kids graduate debt-free and really get a head-start on life!
Trade Secrets – An Article by John Maxwell in Success Magazine
“It is important to remember that we don’t always get what we want, but we always get what we choose.”
That is a tough quote! Sometimes it is tough to remember that we are responsible for wherever we are in life. And if we really want to change, we have to change our choices. John Maxwell points out in his article that successful people have a few areas of trade-off that set them apart from others: 1) They are willing to give up financial security today for potential tomorrow; 2) They are willing to give up immediate gratification for personal growth; 3) They are willing to give up security for significance; and 4) They are willing to give up addition for multiplication.
We just experienced #1 with our son, Nathan. Nathan was presented with an opportunity that would cost him a few dollars now, but one where he had the potential to make up for that money and more in the future (see video for more). As with many children, it is sometimes hard to convince them that a little time in an uncomfortable position can lead to great gains in the long-term. I would also point out that for #3, when John Maxwell is speaking of “significance”, he is really speaking of creating a life that truly makes a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Pretending you are hurt more than you are after an accident can ruin your claim
Nothing can kill a claim faster than getting caught exaggerating the extent of your injuries. Just like you should always be honest with your attorney, you should always be honest with yourself. Trying to get the insurance company to pay for problems that don’t exist is a sure-fire way to land yourself in hot water. Adjusters are trained to do everything they can to discredit your claim and they are not above combing through your social media accounts or hiring a private investigator to follow your every move to prove that you really aren’t hurt as badly as you say you are. Not only will your medical records not be able to back up pain that isn’t there, neither will the information adjusters are able to “dig up” on you.
Bring home a unique Valentine’s Day gift this year
While flowers and candy are nice, try surprising your loved one this year by pairing flowers with something they may not have expected. Whether you are looking for a unique gift for her or a cool something special for him, check out these lists for over 200 options that they won’t forget. (But remember – even a sweet hand-written card can go a long way!)
This is also a time to remind everyone to call our cousin, Juana Edith, with Blanca Flor Flower Shop, at 713-923-1990! She has the best flowers and always makes me look good with Edith!
Beat the winter blues by picking up the phone to connect with an old friend
Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” We all have those old friends who we wish we connected with more. Break out of your comfort zone and reach out! This article provides helpful advice on reconnecting, or simply send them a little note in the mail to let them know you hope they are doing well! It might just help you beat the winter blues!
As a businessman, this quote is one of my favorites because it reminds me that even if I get the best possible result, I cannot forget that it is the human touch and genuine compassion that really makes a difference. Yes, a great settlement can be life-changing, but the process of getting there is just as important to someone going through a devastating injury. And, in a few years, people often forget about the terrific job you did for them….but they never forget how you made them feel!