The Mejma Experience

Clarity

2011-07-13T17:11:00.004+01:00

Happiness and wellbeing, confidence, careers, wealth, relationships,work life balance, stress are, not surprisingly, still at the top of many people's agenda.But for the majority being able to say clearly what they really want and why remains a mystery.

As a result many of us drift through life looking at the next 'thing to do' but no long term ambition - a goal that makes us really want to get up in the morning. Something that gives meaning to our life

Over the last two months I have reflected on my core personal achievement programme the mejma experience with the objective of making it even more focussed and more accessible to all. Making it easy to understand and essentially stripping out distracting information. The programme has been tested and the results are very positive - it does what it 'says on the tin' very well. It enables you to get clarity so that you can find and achieve what you really want from your life.

My free 30 minute audio download is your introduction to the mejma experience. It has been the first part of the programme but is now free to give you an insight to the issues facing many of us today. Then there is the option of the CD and workbook, seminars or personal coaching. You choose which of these you are most comfortable with at this time - all are designed to guide you to achieving your goals that result in your increased happiness and wellbeing.

Bye for now.

Ian

The Executive CV Challenge

2011-04-03T21:17:00.000+01:00

A recent discussion on the Institute of Directors Linkedin group covered CVs'. I made the comments below and from the positive feedback thought I would share it with you as it obviously struck a cord.

The biggest challenge in writing your CV is that everyone (including me) has their own preferred style. A consensus is that it must be clear, concise and provide the reader with the information to 'buy' on the first page.

Personally I like short profiles that also to state the type of job industry you want work in. Then a list of around 7 capabilities that will hook them into reading more later (avoiding the first sifting that ends in the bin).

I am not a fan of CV factories - people are complicated and often need to consider their career in a broader context. Pretty words are not enough - you have to back up what is said and to be able to bring it to life. I guide people on writing their CV's but never write it for them - it is too important a task to delegate. Only they can really have the knowledge and emotion behind each statement and they must be able to recall instantly in interview. Interview practice…now that does make a difference and highlights the strengths and weaknesses in your CV.

A problem for many people is that that they simply don't know what they are good at, what their real strengths are and what the employer really wants. When I work with people, employed and increasingly highly capable unemployed individuals, they see the task as very daunting.

If you approach it as a sales document 'this is what you (the employer) want - this is what I offer plus ...these bonus's you get by employing me'.

Those applying for technical or academic jobs by their nature require more detailed information but not normally on the first page - it is still a sales tool.

By understanding what the employer really needs, their culture and what value ‘I am going to bring, what pain I am going to take away from you and as a result this is what I will achieve.’

Yes, in my view you need a great CV tailored to the job being applied for but it alone won't get you the job - but it will get you that first interview. For more information on how I can help click here.

If you a struggling with your career or finding a new job it is worth getting professional help.

Ian

Time for Action

2011-03-17T14:52:00.000Z
Over the last few months I have been working with clients on a number of areas with the bias on helping those out of work.

The age old problem still seems to be the difficulty of people actually deciding what they really want in a world that is increasingly insecure and changing.

News rarely brings a feeling of confidence with the very serious political unrest in North Africa and the Middle East. The earthquakes in New Zealand and Japan with the addition of potential nuclear disaster. These just add to the world's woes.

In the UK rising prices, increased unemployment and a harsh budget likely all give a forecast of hard times continuing possibly getting worse for us on our small island.

But it is not all bad news. People are getting new jobs, some councils like Sunderland are being creative and redploying staff rather than redundancy. This is something many in the private sector could learn from as well as other councils who pay obscene(although legal)pay-offs to executives it no longer needs (or never needed!). Note banker bashing has been temporarily avoided because I'm bored with it and many of them are a pretty unhappy bunch anyway.

Positively 92% of the working population are in work,the figure for youth unemployment is probably nearer 8% (not 5%)if you strip out those also in education.

However, these positive feelings cannot overcome the stress and disappointment of those affected by unemployment or lifes other challenges. Debt, failing relationships,feelings of worthlessness, poor health......but for those that choose to take action there is a good future ahead.

The life-help website is being updated to better reflect what I am really about. Helping people like you to a better life. The meJma experience will be launching it's first public seminar in May. To find out more please send your email to seminars@life-help.org and I will let you know the detail when these are confirmed. If you think a friend or family member will benefit then please pass on my details.

My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds with a common aim - they want to find a better life and I know I can and do help them.

Ian

My Time For Reflection

2010-11-16T15:08:00.001Z
It was early October and all seemed to be going well - then shock, literally,my ICD (heart monitor) goes off and the next 10 days in hospital being sorted out. Actually 7 of those days deciding whether the NHS guidelines meant I would qualify for a new piece of equipment and which health authority should pay. No decision yet so sent home and all seems well.

Being in a coronary care ward does remind you of just how fragile life can be. The majority of my fellow inmates were in their late sixties and seventies. I was in the next group down and then some in their forties - a secondary school headmaster with a heart attack and a sales director whose dignosis was yet to be decided. As is often the case we lost a couple of our companions along the way but spirits we generally kept up to hide all our fear of what may happen to each of us.

Now this unexpected event gave me time to think what I wanted out of life. An unusual reflection being a life and career coach my time is mostly focussed on helping other people. My condition was stable, it was a fault with the machine but still a major worry and has taken several weeks to get back to my normal.

Along the way my colleague Tim kept my emigration clients happy and with the aid of my trusty mobile my life and career clients were supported and dates re-arranged.What is both comforting and reassuring is how most people are supportive and understanding.

So what did this experience give me. Well most of all a very strong reminder to take action now. In those 10 days it was very clear to me that so many of us focus on the things that don't matter in life and the regrets people have are not doing things - not following their dreams. Some had and they had an energy for life that is enviable.

A challenge many of my clients are faced with is that they simply don't know what they really want. Ok, it the theme of my first page on my website but it is so true, so many of us wander through life without ever taking the time to find out what we really want let alone follow our dream. If we do then we can at least say that we have tried and when our dreams come true then we can reflect on the happiness and satisfaction that we have achieved.

Ian

It's Your Responsibility!

2010-09-22T16:54:00.000+01:00
Why is this happening to me?

This is a question many of my clients ask in one way or another. Whether they are thinking of work, lifestyle or simply experiencing challenges in their life.

Talking with many people from both the private and public sector in the last couple of weeks could have left me really depressed. The uncertainty around the economy here and abroad is generally not encouraging.

Against this I have met a significant number of people who are upbeat and see a good future, they see opportunities from the current situation and are actively discovering they are far more resourceful and determined than they could have ever imagined.

This doesn't mean the realities of life have passed them by but their response to resolving their problems has been to take action. They dig about to find help, possibly from friends, family, colleagues and the likes of me and my colleagues in the world of life-help and coaching.

Men in particular are generally not so good at asking for help. Maybe it seen as a sign of weakness or embarrassment but personal support is so important. Women on the other hand are often over supported with all the 'help' given by well meaning people. Help is often volunteered on the basis of personal experience that can be highly relevant but not necessarily the correct approach for someone 'in different shoes'.

In a recent meeting I was asked 'do you get jobs for people' and the answer is absolutely no. Although I can understand the question I find it so frustrating. Yes I do provide people with vast amounts of information and guidance on their job search and I support them but the underlying fact is that they have to take responsibility for themselves - they have to get their own job.

This taking personal responsibility is what makes the difference between success and failure in life - the world is not fair but too many believe it should be.

Our reality in the UK is that real help is there if we need it but first you, me and others have to put our hands up and ask for it. At the same time when we are able to offer our help towards others we must listen and see what is really happening and to offer a helping hand when we can.

Ian

Losing Your Job!

2010-09-02T15:47:00.000+01:00
In the current environment losing your job affects so many sectors and people at all levels it seems to have overtaken the weather as our main topic of conversation. The reality is the vast majority of the population will not be significantly affected but the thought of what may happen is the stuff of nightmares.

But what does it mean to you when you find yourself in the firing line. My main focus is providing support and guideance for professional and executives, business owners and specialist managers. That said much applies to everyone.

If you are aware that redundancy is a possibility then hearing it is you is often a mix of relief and/or anger initially. If it comes as a shock then disbelief is the first reaction. Whatever way, unless redundancy was part of your greater plan, becoming unemployed is a highly stressful time however we dress it up.

The pressure to find another job, start up your own business, pay the bills, maintain your lifestyle are all big challenges. Coming away with a handsome redundancy payment softens the blow but how long will it last? The temptation may be to have a good holiday, but a new car will dilute your funds very quickly.

Another overlooked factor is how being unemployed can damage your ego and self belief leading to low moods. Partners and family are often the least understanding where their lifestyle expectations remain the the same against a background of much reduced income.

The one big positive of this situation is that you have the 'opportunity' to take stock of your life. Time to explore what you really want and build a new future. Everyone is different and needs and expectations change as we go through life.

Whether you are seeking to find a new direction, new life or to get back into your old industry my 'Mejma Experience' programme will help you find your new future.

One last thought - whatever you do take action now to give yourself the best chance of a happier future.

Ian

Emigration, Happiness and Reality

2010-08-16T17:05:00.000+01:00
Last Thursday I had the opportunity to contribute again to the Mid Morning Show on BBC Radio Lincolnshire my bit is 63 minutes in. The show this time was presented by John Rockley and I was in the hot seat with my 'emigration expert' hat on.

For many years any of my media broadcasts or comments on emigration were very upbeat. Although always saying people really had to think through such a major change in their life all was very positive.

At this time the changes of the worldwide economy have meant that emigrating and for many Brits living abroad life has become difficult. A recent survey claims 70% of people would like to retire abroad but you have to ask yourself the question why? Yes, the weather in the UK can be tiresome but for the majority is living in another country going to take away life's problems and allow you to enjoy unbridled happiness.

There is now significant scientific research that shows we all have our standard (generic) level of happiness - our normal state. In practice this means that whatever happens to us good or bad we will return to our 'happiness state' in a relatively short period of time. So - if you are unhappy now it could be that this in part this is due to the way you see your world and just being in a sunny climate may not be the solution for very long.

It is well understood that our emotional 'state' can be changed by how we choose to look at our world and this is important. This is part of a much broader topic that I cover in my personal develop seminars and meetings and when working with my life coaching clients.

The important point here is to note that emigrating without fully thinking it through is critical to your future happiness. It is an unfortunate fact that money underpins much of our security and happiness. Not that money in itself can buy happiness but without it, or at least what we are used to, life can become very miserable and insecure.

In the UK the problem has in part come from the over inflated housing market enjoyed for much of the last 15 years. This together with high interest rates on investments gave us the impression of being very well off - in particular when looking at countries such as Spain where everything was comparatively cheap.

Similarly destinations like Australia meant that in the early to mid 90's a family from a modest background could sell their 3 bed semi in the UK and buy a four bed detached on a large plot outright with their equity. For skilled workers in Australia there was lots of work that was well paid and the work life balance was much improved. Well the world has changed.

The pound has lost its value against the Euro and the US, Canadian, New Zealand and Australia. In some cases at times over the last 2 years by 30%. Governments outside of Europe have increased the requirements for immigrants to enter their country, business investors needing more money and jobs have been harder to find. In Europe we see unemployment up to 20% in some countries and that is serious - it will take many years to overcome.

At home we see house prices falling and house sales still very low. Interest rates on investments, something many people have relied upon, have plummeted. Wages for many have already seen a reduction in real terms with inflation above wage settlements. None of what I am saying is intended to be a criticism of anyone, rather than our reality has changed but still so many people’s perceptions have not.

The message in my BBC interview this time was now more than ever think through what you want to do. Yes there are some great opportunities abroad but you need a realistic level of capital behind you. Pension and other income for older people and also consider you health and family who in times of need are a great support to you and you to them. Travelling 50 miles to help is one thing - being able to afford to travel 5,000 miles can be a whole new problem.

One of my most successful life coaching programmes is on ‘Changing Your Life’ It is adapted to focus for people thinking of emigrating and the two hours (or more) that we are together it is amazing how people’s life light up when they are sure of what they really do or don’t want. My meeting usually takes place at their home and costs £350.00 for clients within 150 miles of Grantham in Lincolnshire - a little more beyond that.

Any planned major change in your life needs careful thought; emigrating is one such change and for such a small amount gives you the opportunity to really explore what you and your partner/family want for your long term happiness. For more info please email your contact details to me ian@lifehelp.org

Thanks to John and his colleagues at the BBC for making me welcome and doing their best to calm my nerves.

Bye for now

Ian
The Mejma Experience

August Is Such A Weird Month

2010-08-03T15:04:00.001+01:00
Trying to talk to people and to get things done in August can be so frustrating. People are thinking about their holiday next week, on holiday or just back and immersed in the extra work they now have because of their holiday.

Contacting organisations becomes very tiresome as those that are left are extra busy covering for those on holiday and don't have time to talk to you.
Add to this that organisations throughout the UK seem to be re-organising themselves (still)it is wonder anything happens but it does.

Probably not everything that should (by the book) be done but organisations and business still seem to deliver most of the time - so how can they do that? Well maybe the focus is on what has to be done rather than what would be nice to do if 'we were all here'.

Whatever the type of organisation I visit it seems that there is a core of activity that happens and delivers. My observation is that in the main people want to do a good job and despite 'the organisation' doing it's best to get in the way people make it work.

That is crux of my thinking - it is people that make organisations of whatever size work and leaders at whatever level must serve to make that possible. The managers key role is to enable their staff to deliver the best that they can.

Ian

My Own Business - I want to be self-employed

2010-07-22T18:22:00.002+01:00
I want to work for myself. This is a cry I hear time and again and it is understandable, this is what I decided to do and still do.

I work for me - what I actually mean is that I provide a service to clients in my own name rather than under someone elses ownership.

The biggest benefit is that I can have more control over how I spend my time. I am good at what I do, it plays to my strengths and it can be really enjoyable and rewarding helping people through periods of major change in their life.

Is it for you? - probably not at least unless you get some sound advice before you start.

New small businesses have a very high failure rate. Even many established businesses are struggling and though we can all be smug 'well they should have realised what was coming, changed their market,re-organised done this done that' the reality it isn't easy to change what your business is doing and even harder to change yourself.

Many self employed people will actually be working in their field of specialism. Some will re-train and are motivated by something new.

Are you a potential entrepreneur - well a dictionary defination is that 'of someone who takes risks'. This is important because a fundamental characteristic of successful people in business is that they take risks with their own time and money.

This doesn't mean the next harebrained idea you get should be followed blindly, far from it. You need to follow a process that gives you comfort that a real opportunity is there and that you are committed to make it work.

One great way to get into business and earn a good living is to purchase a franchise. Even in this economy the majority of national franchises are doing well with only a few failures. Why? franchises work to a proven model - 'do as we say and this and this will happen'. You get ongoing support and although you have a lot of independence you also have people to call on and support you - having someone to talk to is a real benefit.

If you want to go it alone that is fine but think and plan, revise think and plan. Is there a market, can I get to it, what are the problems and how much will I make. Ideally, when you have done this maybe been on 'my work for yourself seminar' talk to a local accountant - someone who knows the area and can offer you a realistic view. If you need funding an accountant will often be able to give you an introduction to a bank if you need one.

So, if you want to work harder than you have ever done before, lose the occassional nights sleep but have the motivation and commitment to make 'your business work' then give it a go.

It's great when a plan comes together.

Ian

Unemployed & The Welfare Trap

2010-07-12T16:04:00.002+01:00
Few things make me really angry but Ian Duncan Smith's outpouring on last nights Hardtalk on the BBC about getting people back to work drove me to distraction. What planet is he on and when will he accept there is not a simple solution to this?

Well to be fair to him he has taken on the challenge that is the department work and pensions. He has made it clear that the gap between rich and poor must be narrowed with the poorest finding their way out of poverty. But what was said in the TV broadcast I felt was so broadly aimed and made no difference between those who have had some success in their life but through changes in employement have fallen on hard times i.e.redundancy

Most of us recognise that there is an element of society who do not want to work at all - it is generally accepted that 3% unemployment equals full employment, of that I think about 1% being unemployable. I don't know how to tackle this area but the problem is far beyond just getting them a job -what employer in their right mind would want to employ many of those 1%people anyway.

My focus is on those that have worked and need to continue working.

When people are made redundant it is one hell of an emotional nightmare. The risk to your whole lifesyle and relationships comes immediately under threat - what security you did have is gone. The last thing these people need is some over zealous politician making threats. In my experience the vast majority of people really do want to get back into work and need encouragement and support - there are enough real life threats without the government making people feeling social outcasts.

Just taking any job is often bad for the individual and for the economy. Entry jobs, which are fine if that is what you want to do, in supermarkets or security or transport may make statistics look good but are not the answer for those from a trade, professional or career background.

These people are used to the respect for the skills and experience they have earned through their own investment in training/education and hard work. It is critical these people are and continue to be helped not least because these are valuable to the wider economy and earn good money - high earmings equals paying high taxes.

Certainly those individuals who are unemployed need to be flexible and to consider moving to another area. This is not normally so difficult if your home is rented or with the council or a housing association. If you own your own home then moving is a nightmare, costly and in the current employment market high risk.

This is not say people shouldn't take responsibility for their own futures but becoming unemployed is like being in a car crash. You are hurt, disorientated, angry and confused, probably with a lot of guilt thrown in.

At least in a car crash you get to hospital and get help straight away - not the weeks and months it can take for the wheels of the support services to turn.

Accepting there is a problem at some levels with welfare and work we must recognise most people want to work. But, in order to work people need job opportunties, sometimes training or re-training and to find those jobs many people needs access to a lot of skill and help.

If your are unemployed, or fear that you maybe then get in touch to see how my one to one support can help you.

Ian

The 40% Fear

2010-07-05T16:02:00.002+01:00
Well it certainly makes a good headline - government departments to plan for a 40% reduction in their budgets. So what? Isn't such an excercise normal in disaster planning scenarios where you scale up or down to see how your organisation would cope. In the governments case this will identify the level of services that can be provided at various levels of reduced income.

I think this is nothing more than sound management. It is something if you don't do it, or apparently ignore like some banks, will 'bite you on the bum' when it happens. Planning for disaster as well as for success is a core management task.

Governments and all the agencies supporting it have disaster recovery plans, such as major accidents, at which it appears they are very capable -unless it is to do with funtional management of the day to day business.

A critical thought is that the type and style of leadership that is needed when under dramatic threat is often very different than when times are OK. A question you should ask yourself are you and your key executives up to managing in disaster.

Individuals who under extreme pressure are able to lead effectively, communicate very clearly, have absolute focus on the problem and clarity on actions to be taken - and to implement them. Who in each of your key ares of operations should be in the disaster recovery team and have they ever met to discuss the process they need to go through - not least allocating tasks and giving people the authority to enforce decisions.

Despite many organisations claiming strong communication channels these are often several layers and messages get diluted and corrupted. Using in-house video is good but not for the detail of disaster and what if the internet is down?

The government seeking plans that include a 40% cut in funding should be seen as good governance. Something many organistions that don't at this time should seriously consider. Planning for it doesn't mean it will happen but if it does then at least you have the best chance of survival.

Ian Marshall - Personal Development Specialist

Play To Your Strengths

2010-07-01T19:57:00.000+01:00
For a number of years now organisations have learned that employees who play to their core strengths are most effective. This doesn't mean that because you are good at something that it is what you should be doing in your organisation. If you can do it but it drains you (like me and accounts)it weakens you, but play to a strength that makes you feel strong then that energises you and all around you - it makes you feel great.

An article in People Management quoting Marcus Buckingham explains it well and we are doing this better than our American friends across the pond - see we are the best at lots of things.

Ian

IS IT MY HEART DOC?

2010-06-25T12:06:00.002+01:00
Is It My Heart Doc!
Have you ever gone to your GP with the thought in your head ‘It’s my heart, I know it…panic, oh no not me!’ only to find it’s not heart related at all. It’s something minor and nothing to worry about. That broken elbow turns out to be a strain. The deafness is earwax.
Then another time you go and you don’t feel really unwell, just a bit of colour – and then suddenly you need tests, and yes it could be bad news but we need to check it out!!!
This analogy is typical of those people who contact me for ‘help in their life’. Ok, it’s not as dramatic as above and I’m not a doctor but all the same it is important that you can see your life as it really is.
Taking time out to reflect on your current situation, what’s really important to me, what should I do to be happier, more fulfilled and excited in ‘my life’?
How can I balance money, my family, a career, the home, children – my emotions and motivation – let alone my own dreams? What are my dreams – what do I really want?
There are areas in your life that with skilled help you will lead a much happier, confident and rewarding life. This is what I do – help people find their happiness.
This is why I have developed THE mejma® EXPERIENCE a quality personnel development programme designed to help you become the person that you have always wanted to be.
Ian

New Prime Minister for Australia

2010-06-24T18:00:00.001+01:00
The thought that life is good everywhere but in the UK we must take a long hard look at the reality of how content people are.

Australia is a key destination for the British emigrating for their 'new life abroad'and the vast majority make a great success of it. But Australia is not without its' critics and governments come under constant pressure to perform.

Under the leadersip of Kevin Rudd Australia has survived the economic downturn the best of and western country. A good achievement for a government elected only three years ago and I have to say probably the benificiary of many of the previous governments policies.

Six months ago papers say Kevin Rudd was one of the most popular prime ministers but now he is not and he is 'out'. His colleagues left him standing high and dry and he has stepped down - no competition, just given up. At least that is how it seems.

His deputy, Julia Gillard has today taken over in the run up to next election due this October - so no pressure on her.

Why my particular interest in this. Well, over the last two years and a bit, the immigration minister Senator Chris Evans has introduced policies and actions on immigration that have been one of embarrassment and confusion for Australia. Putting in place draconian regulation only to withdraw without notice then make another rash decision that affects real people.

His intentions are I am sure in good faith and the final outcome will result in a practical skilled worker immigration programme. But the way in which he has gone about it with no regard to the many people around the world whose life's he has seriously disrupted can only reflect badly on Australia.

His aim to seek more and more direct personal control of immigration I hope will be watered down so decisions are made by the whole government not by one whose consideration, for those people Australia does really need, he has dismissed in the past.

On the 1st July 2010 new regulations and policies will come into force that I hope will enable the immigration process to flow freely again and to take its' it former place as the leading immigration system in the world.

If you are interested in emigrating, which for many is a great opportunity then there is an assessment facility here.

Ian

How to make cricket interesting!

2010-06-21T17:00:00.004+01:00
Last week I had just started my train jouney to London when I learned my meeting was cancelled.

As I sat down a jovial, very tall fellow, was sorting himself out on one of the seats opposite. Finally settled we got into conversation, well - more I listened, as he enthused about his cricket world and the media that he worked in. Now as someone who is not sporty, and a bit rattled about the cancelled meeting, I now ran the risk of being bored stupid.

But the reality is that I was facinated by what Jim White was saying - I do have a family of cricket lovers that gave me some chance to follow his enthusiasm. The area that really facinated me was learning about team dynamics and how you can a whole group of first class people together but they just don't gel. (It wasn't mentioned but the England football team came to my mind).

As someone involved in personal development and how individuals perform within a group I found this facinating. A while ago, I think it was Roco Forte (of hotel fame at the time) exclaimed "I don't need more chefs - I just want good cooks".

This is a message I think is often missed when people recruit teams. You can only have so many superheroes and what you really need is a team where each player contributes to the whole - each doing what they are good at, very well.

Yes, in a dynamic world this will change and this is where much of my time is spent helping the 'square pegs in a round holes' discover the best way forward.see Executive Support. People, like their jobs do change all the time.

The latter part of the journey we were chatting about the media and it turns out that we both now work out of Grantham in Lincolnshire but both came from near Winchester in Hampshire. I guess I was destined to have that conversation.

So if you want to know anything about Cricket and media promotion contact Jim or if you need help in your personal development let me know.

Lets hope England pull a rabbit out of the hat on Wednesday!

Ian

Skeletones - The Bones About Life and Everything

2010-06-11T14:25:00.001+01:00
Sign Up for your free Life-help Skeletones - a series to help you in your own personal development and the opportunities out there for you:

These are a new series of short information pieces on all manner of things to do with life, personal happiness and achievement. To subscribe just go to the Skeletones link and register.

If you have a positive topic that you think could be included then send it to me: ian@life-help.org

Thanks

Ian

Immigration & Emigration Seminars

2010-06-03T13:20:00.001+01:00
One of my talks has been developed to provide an insight of immigration into Britain and leading on to why and where us Brits choose to live abroad. The presentation normally lasts 30 - 60 mins, depends on what our host needs and the amount of questions.

It is lighthearted but designed to inform people of some of the realities of migration - most people are genuinely surprised.

I provide this particular talk free (travel and a charitable donation welcome) to business clubs, associations and charitable groups. Last night it was to a local Womens Institute a really interesting group with many having their own experiences to share.

If you need a speaker ( I do these as part of my Mejma Experience programmes) then please contact me - My time is limited so please get in touch soon. click here
Ian

Lost Your Job - Then you are on your own!

2010-05-28T13:13:00.001+01:00
Maybe this has always been the case but the impression the last government gave was that in bad times there was a lot of help available for those out of work and seeking help.

Well yes there was and still is but getting the right help at the right time has been very hard to find and in my view a compromise of volume over quality. In my view services are aimed at the lowest common denominator and where it is comparatively easy to resolve.

Services are fragmented with many outside agencies involved in the support and control of the system and services. Entering the system and claiming benefit is a nightmare being both time consuming and a highly emotional experience.

The majority providing services are well intentioned but the practical support they give you straight-away is not a great help in you finding a new future. In fact it seems to me that only when you have hit the bottom then you get help but an earlier intervention is what is needed before the situation gets out of hand. This is very important for those whose career and lifestyles has been good and is suddenly in a world unknown and alien to them.

What to do? The critical action to take is to find a way forward once you know, or at least anticipate problems. If you are able to invest in personal support then that can be one of the greatest investments you can make in your life. Not only do you get practical guidance but that very important emotional support - don't think that hardnosed executive or technical expert is immune. Take away your job and for most people their belief in themselves and risk to their lifestyle can destroy even the strongest.

If you need help then get it - now.

To see how the Mejma® Experience can help you please go to Http://www.life-help.org

A great future awaits you.

Ian

Always Learning

2010-05-26T15:41:00.008+01:00
As best as I can I try to keep up with the trends that impact on our life - in particular matters to do with personal development. However, the importance of getting my message out "Yes,I really do help people and I can help you" is often lost in the mass of spam and other rubbish that we are all bombarded with.

One area that is critical to me is being able to find new clients - those that are willing to invest the time and money in creating a better and happier future for themselves.

Hence over the last year I have researched masses of information and attended numerous seminars focussed on how to use the internet to find new clients. Fortunately many clients do find me and recommendations are always welcome.

Anyway, last weekend, you remember those few real hot days,I was stuck in a Heathrow hotel with around 100 others all learning how to promote successfuly on the internet. This was using a highly successful and proven promotional method to your database. It was great but I had to 'unlearn' many of the marketing wisdoms that has taken me too many years to gain. So if you are interested in promoting your business then I recommend you look at:

http://www.marketdominationmethod.com/video/

The guy who runs this is Nick James who is very down to earth and I have to say one of the most sincere people I have met in the internet promotion industry.

Ian

Commitment To Your Dream Is Everything

2010-05-19T15:38:00.001+01:00
The real pleasure of my job is when things work out for my clients - it really does make it worthwhile. Whether it is a new job, new direction,being happier with their life as it is or as happened today.

For several years now I have been working with a family from Hull who moved to Australia to set up a business. They are some of the truly good people in the world and I have got to know them very well over that time. Their move has presented many challenges not least changing regulations, health issues and of course the economy. But,they never gave up and now they have permanent residency in Australia.

The one thing that struck me is that throughout Mr & Mrs X have been so determined and together on making their dream a reality - now they have. I guess behind closed doors things may have been a little fractious at times but they overcame all that was thrown at them and I admire that.

A lesson for all of us not to give up.

Ian

Mind Week 15 - 22 May 2010

2010-05-17T14:42:00.001+01:00
Mind week 15-22 May 2010

"Mind today presents compelling new evidence that the recession has had a devastating effect on the wellbeing of British workers. The charity has found that since the recession 1 in 10 workers have sought support from their doctors and 7% have started taking antidepressants for stress and mental health problems directly caused by the pressures of recession on their workplace"

My view is this trend is throughout the Western World, in fact anywhere where there is a strongly competitive 'productivity' environment and a populace ever demanding more for less. Not saying we don't want value for money but there is a point that the only area left to potentially save money is the people it employs. If the customer continually demands more for less then working people are the final target - and increasingly, at all levels, they can't cope.

In my view it is price too high to pay as stress can destroy lives and families and we must work towards a fairer society.

Ian

Self Employment - Saviour or Satan

2010-05-13T17:21:00.003+01:00
Recent figures show the number of self employed has risen to nearly 5 million. No doubt this reflects the difficulties of the jobs market and often desperation kicks in. Having your own business is a dream for many but it is important to consider your options and any business idea looked at with 'cold eyes'.

Not everyone is suited to their own business and a good idea by itself is not enough as I see from my clients. Many factors have to be considered and these are established when we have exploratory meetings or you attend my introduction to business. Your own business can be really satisfying but the road to success can be very bumpy.

Ian

Britons Leaving The UK

2010-05-10T14:28:00.005+01:00
I see a survey from Currency UK has been published saying that almost three quarters of Brits consider leaving the UK. The poor state of the economy and job prospects lead the way followed by 10% who wanted a slower pace of life.

Maybe it's time for a reality check here. The Uk does offer a good future for most if they work at it and other countries like Australia are very particular on those people they want. It's not always just what you want it is also what you have to offer.

The reason our programmes are successful is they allow you to explore what what you really want to achieve, if it is realistic - and if it is how to achieve it.

Thinking of emigrating? www.emigationoptions.co.uk

Ian

Be Your Own Boss Seminar

2010-04-29T17:06:00.001+01:00
When I am at the many Lifestyle and Living Abroad exhibitions in the UK I am always amazed by the number of people who want to start their own business. Often this in a new country with most people never having run a business before, even in the UK.

I developed a one day seminar initially aimed at those thinking of emigrating but it is equally relevant to anyone thinking of starting a small business in the UK. It's one day, relaxed and informative and gives you a great starting point to see if your own business is for you - wherever in the world.

For more information please email seminars@life-help.org and in the header please show - Own Business.

What Do I Really Want?

2010-04-26T16:49:00.007+01:00
Hi and welcome to my first blog for the Mejma Experience. What's it all about? The website www.life-help.org gives the overview but importantly it is about helping real people get the best out of their life.

I've dicovered over the years I have helped people that so often decisions are taken without ever thinking it through - not least what is it that you really want.

Ok, more money. Why? In the UK research shows if your family income is around £45k more money is unlikely to make you a happier person - yes that surprised me to. Still thinking on that one but happiness is a broad subject and one we are going to explore.

Relationships,jobs,living abroad....these we will also look at but the first anyone needs to do to make a change in their life is to take action, and you guessed it "to find out what you really want".