Tom Riach's Posts (101)

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How To Be An Entrepreneur

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business

 

"How To Be An Entrepreneur" is the 23rd in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories.

My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

 

 

HOW TO BE AN ENTREPRENEUR 

       Mr. Carpenter was Carpenter by name and a carpenter to trade. His workshop was crammed full of coffins in various stages of preparation, all on order to the undertaker whose funeral parlour was located next door. When the undertaker passed away (yes they pop their clogs too), Mr. Carpenter bought that business.

       He also acquired the disused country manor at the end of the same street and opened it as a retirement home. For good measure he purchased for Mrs. Carpenter two nearby shop units which were converted for use as a creche and children's pre-school nursery. She in turn bought a third unit which became a book shop supplying schools, pupils, local government and employees with their text books of learning.

       All the while Mr. Carpenter continued with his local authority contract work in the renovation of old town properties into modern apartments for let to newly weds. Those couples then inevitably employed his services throughout their married lives.

     Carpenter rarely felt the need to advertise his businesses, any of them. Clientele passed from one enterprise to the next in a continuous flow as the various stages of their lives unfolded. Baby to toddler, toddler to teenager, teenager to marriage, marriage to retirement - and then beyond. Plus there were referrals.

       Mr. Carpenter had constructed the perfect business model. A veritable cradle to grave solution. One with multiple income streams and a guaranteed customer base.

      Many hugely successful entrepreneurs operate in like manner. They build up a series of 'crossover businesses'; enterprises which are inter-related, continuous and feed each other with repeat business and sales.

       I developed my own business in just such a way. 

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal.

* SPECIAL OFFER! - Receive a FREE E-version of my 'Yes You Can!' book! Just CLICK HERE

Or go to my Amazon store for Paperback or Kindle copies of - 'Yes You Can!' - when you Click on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

'HOW TO BE AN ENTREPRENEUR' is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this presentation and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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The Making Of An Entrepreneur

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business

 

"The Making Of An Entrepreneur" is the twenty-second in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories.

My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

 

 

THE MAKING OF AN ENTREPRENEUR 

      My grandfather was a master baker in the city of his birth which was, at the time, the largest fishing port in Europe. As such my earliest work experience, early morning, after school and weekend jobs were in his bakery and in the fishing industry.

     The bakery was hot, an open-necked, sleeves rolled up environment where I learned to knead dough with easy-going, flour-ghosted tradesmen, bake bread and gorge myself on scorching hot Scotch pies straight from the oven! I needed them. Because from the bakery I high-tailed it on foot most mornings to the fish docks, freezing cold in the early hours of winter days, to unload trawlers, pack their cargo of wet fish in ice and deliver the bulky boxes to the fish processing houses for gutting and filleting.

     Where the atmosphere in the bakery was chirpy and cheerful, busy but sometimes subdued, the fish industry was an ever loud, vulgar, rough-and-tumble world, peopled by tough trawlermen and even tougher fishwives! The bakery taught me the skill of baking and the language of rolls, 'softies', loaves and 'fancies'. At the docks I learned how to handle, grade and cut fish and the coarse talk of the hardened souls which went with it.

     I also learned, not surprisingly, that fishworkers bought bread from the bakery and that bakers purchased fish from the fishmonger. On this realisation was my first enterprise born. It was a barter style arrangement whereby I supplied my friends at the docks with morning rolls and bakery goods and my baker colleagues with fresh fish.

     Each day the dockworkers awaited my arrival from the bakery before enjoying their early morning tea break with the hot rolls and pies I brought them. The bakers in turn relished my return from the docks with my fishy cargo before knocking off for the day and taking their fresh cod, haddock or herring home to their families for lunch.

     I now had three jobs, a foot in two industries, friends from many different backgrounds and the education and future contacts to go with them. Of course I was neither the maker of the bread nor the catcher of the fish, the prime wealth creation activities, but, as a middleman between the two, I had unwittingly become a young entrepreneur! Later in life I would create my own goods and services but for now I was earning in both real terms and, more importantly as I would discover, in experience and goodwill.

     In due course my grandfather retired and the fish industry died. But the need of the populace to be fed lives on. There is always a market for fresh food.

     And there's always a market for entrepreneurs and innovators willing to use their native wit, get their hands dirty and grind that bit harder than the rest – for those working on excellence.

     Grandad, the bakers and the fish workers all knew that. I know it too. So should you.         

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal.

* SPECIAL OFFER! - Receive a FREE E-version of my 'Yes You Can!' book! Just CLICK HERE

Or go to my Amazon store for Paperback or Kindle copies of - 'Yes You Can!' - when you Click on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

'THE MAKING OF AN ENTREPRENEUR' is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this presentation and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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Getting To Where You Are Going

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business

 

"Getting To Where You Are Going" is the 21st in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories.

My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

 

 

GETTING TO WHERE YOU ARE GOING 


          "I always get to where I am going by leaving behind where I have been." - JTR

       I had been standing at the bus stop for what seemed like an eternity. It wasn’t that there was any lack of busses arriving. A steady stream came and then left. All en-route to interesting, and some not so interesting, places. But none were headed for the destination which I had chosen; the location on which I had set my heart, where I dreamed of being.

     I could have hopped on to any one of those busses which did pass through. Each one provided an opportunity to move on from where I was stationed and take me to somewhere new. And just going ‘somewhere new’ was certainly tempting. My ambition, after all, was to change my current circumstance for one with different horizons; a vista which would satisfy my growing ambition and sense of adventure.

     But an opportunity is an opportunity and, with each passing bus, I was passing up on an option to pursue the change I sought. Any bus may not take me to my destination of preference but it would move me on from where I stood. That last factor was, I realised, the most important. Stagnation is self-fulfilling. So I changed tack.

     I resolved to get on to the next bus that arrived regardless of where it was going to - but with one proviso. It could not be one going back in the direction from which I had come. Notwithstanding that, I reckoned that any destination which went some way to getting me towards my ideal location was a good move; a stepping stone to my future. From there I could then repeat the strategy, progressing in stages until I arrived where I most longed to be.

     Thus decided, I looked forward with renewed enthusiasm for the next bus to arrive.

     When it did, I leaped on board. Soon I was on my way. On my way where? I knew not. It didn’t matter. Because, as I looked ahead at the unfolding view of the uncharted territory into which I was heading, I realised three things.

     The first was that my destination, wherever it might be, was a surprise and a challenge in waiting. The arrival of the bus there would be both a thrilling climax to my journey and the opening of a new and exciting chapter in my life.

     The second thing was that I determined to enjoy the journey. I sat back, relaxed and took in everything and everybody around me. Soon I was engaged with new people and their lives, hopes and experiences as well as the changing countryside around us. I was already absorbing an expanded environment. I was living the moment.

     But third and last, and most explosively, the fact hit me that the single most critical element in my day had been the moment of stepping from the sidewalk at the bus stop and on to the bus. As the bus pulled away from there with me on board, that was the point of change, my point of no return.

     The days, weeks and months of prevarication, of thinking about change but doing nothing to enforce change; the hours waiting for the arrival of the bus to my perfect location - all were blown away in that one simple act of stepping on to the bus. It was the instant I came to learn what I now know :

          Having goals (destinations) is essential to achieving outcomes

          but

         Outcomes are the result of actions

         and

         Actions must be instigated.

     The hardest actions to take are based on tough decisions. Decisions which may necessitate moving on from familiar places, situations and relationships. Leaving these behind, rather than focusing on a particular destination, is what gets things moving. It’s the moment that you ‘step on to the bus’ - any bus - that matters. After that, the rest is ‘easy’.

     I myself love new challenges. Arriving at hitherto unexplored destinations is thrilling - but - I always get to where I am going by leaving behind where I have been! Knowing that is the key to getting to where you are going. 

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal.

* SPECIAL OFFER! - Receive a FREE E-version of my 'Yes You Can!' book! Just CLICK HERE

Or go to my Amazon store for Paperback or Kindle copies of - 'Yes You Can!' - when you Click on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

'GETTING TO WHERE YOU ARE GOING' is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this presentation and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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Yes You Can!

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business

YES YOU CAN! 
 Joseph Tom Riach

 

CAN everyone have health and wealth?

IS wisdom confined to just a few or can it be learned?

WHY shouldn't YOU be healthy, wealthy ... and capable of making wise life choices too!

I say a big 'YES!' to all of that. And in 'Yes You Can!' I show you how.

My fun and Express Way of getting there - quickly  - is a short book – but it packs a mighty punch!

     I have written it this way to let you see quickly and easily, exactly how to take control of your life in the same way as I have done – but without the time and effort I expended. This is my express guide to happiness and wealth.

     My 15 simple MASTER MOVES are guaranteed to enrich your life in every way imagineable - starting today!

    Simple and fun, apply them now. Health, wealth and wisdom beyond your wildest dreams are yours for the asking. But be sure to ask!

    Ask now by reading my book! I have proved my MASTER MOVES work. Now you can too. In no time at all you’ll be on your way. But … a word of warning. Once you start to follow my lead, the process is unstoppable!

     With my favourite cocktail of real life experience, professional insights, personal views and fun stories, I guide you through -

     * 5 MASTER MOVES to have you take command of all situations and be the most charismatic person in the room.

       * 5 MASTER MOVES to have you start to make money and create future wealth as easily as any entrepreneur or financial genius.

          * 5 MASTER MOVES to bless you with a cool head and crafty decision making while enjoying a relaxed and fun time too.

   Everything you need in fact to change your life for the better – but quickly. My express way to success is the guide I long wanted to write. It's the expressway to wealth and fulfillment that you have long dreamt of reading! 

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal.

* SPECIAL OFFER! - Receive a FREE E-version of my book! Just Click Here

Or go to my Amazon store for Paperback or Kindle copies of - 'Yes You Can!' - when you Click on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

'YES YOU CAN! - Be Healthy, Wealthy And Wise' is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this presentation and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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Yes You Can!

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business

YES YOU CAN! 
 Joseph Tom Riach

 

CAN everyone have health and wealth?

IS wisdom confined to just a few or can it be learned?

WHY shouldn't YOU be healthy, wealthy ... and capable of making wise life choices too!

I say a big 'YES!' to all of that. And in 'Yes You Can!' I show you how.

My fun and Express Way of getting there - quickly  - is a short book – but it packs a mighty punch!

     I have written it this way to let you see quickly and easily, exactly how to take control of your life in the same way as I have done – but without the time and effort I expended. This is my express guide to happiness and wealth.

     My 15 simple MASTER MOVES are guaranteed to enrich your life in every way imagineable - starting today!

    Simple and fun, apply them now. Health, wealth and wisdom beyond your wildest dreams are yours for the asking. But be sure to ask!

    Ask now by reading my book! I have proved my MASTER MOVES work. Now you can too. In no time at all you’ll be on your way. But … a word of warning. Once you start to follow my lead, the process is unstoppable!

     With my favourite cocktail of real life experience, professional insights, personal views and fun stories, I guide you through -

     * 5 MASTER MOVES to have you take command of all situations and be the most charismatic person in the room.

       * 5 MASTER MOVES to have you start to make money and create future wealth as easily as any entrepreneur or financial genius.

          * 5 MASTER MOVES to bless you with a cool head and crafty decision making while enjoying a relaxed and fun time too.

   Everything you need in fact to change your life for the better – but quickly. My express way to success is the guide I long wanted to write. It's the expressway to wealth and fulfillment that you have long dreamt of reading! 

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal.

* SPECIAL OFFER! - Receive a FREE E-version of my book! Just CLICK HERE

Or go to my Amazon store for Paperback or Kindle copies of - 'Yes You Can!' - when you Click on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

'YES YOU CAN! - Be Healthy, Wealthy And Wise' is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this presentation and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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Because I Feel Like It!

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business

BECAUSE I FEEL LIKE IT! 
 Joseph Tom Riach

 

DOES everyone have independent thoughts?

ARE some people more independence minded than others?

IS there a secret to knowing your own mind and standing up for your rights and beliefs?

I say - 'YES', 'YES' and 'YES'!

MY EXTRAORDINARY STORY OF LIFE AS 'JUST AN ORDINARY GUY' WHO HAS PROFITED FROM A LIFETIME OF BEING MY OWN MAN DESCRIBES HOW IT'S DONE WITH SIMPLE AND QUICK WAYS TO PRACTICALLY TRANSFORM YOURSELF FROM BEING ONE OF THE CROWD INTO AN INDEPENDENTLY ASSERTIVE HERO BOSSING YOUR OWN THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS.


Why did I write this book? Why should you read it?


As an entrepreneur I have lived a lifetime of independent self-determination, of making my own way in the world, of being my own boss. I live a life free of intellectual or physical interference, propaganda and mindless chatter. Very few possess similar experience.

Because I Feel Like It!’ is my account of how I tackle the challenge of being self-reliant, of being determinedly independent in thought and action. With professional insights, personal views and fun stories, I show how my observations, real life experiences and conclusions will help you to do likewise.

Whether you are already an independent thinker, aspire to become one or if you are simply curious about what makes people of an independent mindset tick, then his story will at least fascinate you and at best drive you to be the independent power of your dreams. The sort of person others look up to and respect.

Be prepared for surprises. My promptings are not what you might expect. Then again, thinking beyond the confines of conventional wisdom is the very essence of an independent mind at work!

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of - 'Because I Feel Like It!' - at a massive 50% off, introductory half-price offer of just $9.99 when you Click on the image below. My story is guaranteed to fire up your independent mind like never before!

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

BECAUSE I FEEL LIKE IT! is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this presentation and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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Simple Is Best, Simple Works!

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business"Simple Is Best, Simple Works!" is the 20th in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life events, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

SIMPLE IS BEST, SIMPLE WORKS! 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     Much is spoken of and written about investing and investments. What is good, what is bad? What is right, what is wrong? Stocks and shares, commodities, currencies, bonds, futures, gold, property, hard assets, cash? The list is endless, the possibilities too.

     What is best for one person is worst for another. The right time for one, is the wrong time for others. The amount invested can be too big or too little. The objectives differ … and so on and so on. The fact is that with so many variables there isn't a 'one size fits all or in all situations' solution for investors looking to protect or grow their wealth.

     Or is there?

     While working as a financial consultant and business advisor I came up against these investment market questions, variables and situations on a daily basis. Analysis of clients' situations led to constantly changing, ever more complex and confusing (to both clients and myself)! recommendations. I longed for a simpler approach; a way to easily serve and satisfy my clients and reduce my burden too.

     At that same time I was also employed as a creative solutions specialist by both corporate and private clients in commerce and industry. This work involves devising approaches to situations within enterprises which overcome difficulties and/or improve any general or specific aspects of the businesses. Success in this sector led me to thinking that, if I could come up with novel ways of resolving difficulties for these clients, could I not perhaps find an answer to the 'one size fits all' conundrum of myself and my investment clients? I put my mind to work on that puzzle.

     At first it seemed that I had set myself an impossible task. The financial markets are awash with possibilities and it occurred to me that the investment industry in general has little interest anyway in promoting one simple, universal solution. The big money for them lies in complex financial instruments and their own self-interest solutions.

     So, in order to arrive at my conclusion, I started with three basic premises.

     Onethe plan had to be simple.

     Twothe plan had to be wholly effective.

     Threethe plan had to be suitable for everyone.

     From there I went back to absolute basics. I knew that in the creation of solutions, the answer lies always in the question. It is necessary of course to ask the right question. I decided on two -

     What does every single person on the planet need and will always buy into?

     … and …

     What is the most fundamental example of investing in that way?

     I came up with answer one – Food!

     And answer two?

     I reckoned that not many would wish to get their hands dirty directly involved in agriculture, livestock breeding or foodstuff manufacturing but they could invest in companies that did! I realised that by targeting reputable companies in the food and related sectors, buying their shares and holding them long term, my investors, whatever their objectives, could achieve their goals.

     The fact is that the best quality, 'blue chip', high dividend yield stocks of top companies provide a remarkably safe haven, long term growth and regular income. All an investor must do is buy their shares and hold them. No trading or fancy dealing. As such, a portfolio of them can satisfy anyone's investment criteria – from short term income to long term retirement planning and all requirements in between.

     I had found my 'one size fits all or in all situations' solution for investors looking to protect or grow their wealth in a simple, sound way! So simple in fact that it had been staring me in the face all along. I had been just to darned clever to see it.

     But when I saw how easy the strategy was to employ, how effective and efficient it was for all investors in all circumstances, how my reputation was enhanced, my responsibility reduced and my income increased, it cemented my belief that - in all areas of life and business - Simple Is Best, Simple Works!

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of my best-selling 'Mastering The Art Of Making Money' by clicking on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

SIMPLE IS BEST, SIMPLE WORKS!  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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How To Close A Deal

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business"How To Close A Deal" is the nineteenth in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

HOW TO CLOSE A DEAL 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     The six in the morning glint in farmer Sandy Duncan's eye was induced little by the watery, winter sun rising over the Grampian hills but much by the mischief occupying his mind. Thumbs entrenched in classic rural manner around the bib of his mucky dungarees and chewing on unlit clay pipe, he was leaning by the gate of his 'bottom field'; that rough tangle of gorse and weed farthest from the farmhouse, lowest down by the stream and a veritable bog of sodden misery lieing in wait for the unwary.

     He turned his eye to the mud, gravel and pot-hole mosaic of track lurching upward from his lolling point and scanned narrow-eyed for his prey. A thin smile glanced his lips. His intended victim was to be yet another 'pretentious, pinstripe-suited, city slicker' lured at unholy hour to this ungodly spot by Sandy's vague insinuation of 'lucrative business to be had', only to be waylayed in the stinking myre of Sandy's midden and sent empty-handed on his way, a muddied and humiliated mess.

     But as Sandy caught sight of the old and battered Land Rover weaving its way along the lane towards him, his eye-brows furrowed, the image of his perfect ambush wilted somewhat and his pipe sagged in his lips. What was this?

     I pulled the Land Rover to a halt with a squelch and not unimpressive slither, smack in front of Sandy, threw open the door and jumped out. He was crestfallen to see that I wore knee-high wellington boots, denim jeans and a tatty Barbour jacket. Before he could say a word I fearlessly grabbed his sharn-spattered hand, shook it vigourously and proclaimed, “Good morning Mr.Duncan, this is quite some place you've got here. I'm told you have the finest beasts (cattle) in the glen. Can we go see them now?!” A canny pause while he scrutinized me thoughtfully, then a drawn out, “Aye, we can that.”

     Twenty minutes and a soggy sludge through the fields later we were close up and personal with his prize herd in the byre (cow-shed) and he was introducing me enthusiastically and in detail to each and every one of them. Bang! - Deal closed! Yet not a word of any potential business of any kind has been mentioned or discussed. We have only just met.

     The rest of the day passed with Sandy proudly showing me around the entire farm and concluded seated by the massive open range fire in the kitchen, his wife Janet prodding me with queries of my life and treating me to her freshly baked scones; my genuine and enthusiastic approval of which dealt conclusively with any possibility of opposition to any business proposal from that quarter.

     The next time I visited Sandy, he and his wife welcomed me glowingly at the door of their farmhouse. The day passed with heaped servings of Mrs.Duncan's hot girdle scones, mugs of farmyard tea and hilarious tales of city business executives whose pride, sanity and Armani suits Sandy had gleefully sabotaged during early morning rendez-vous in his bottom field.

     Only as I was leaving did Sandy ask for the first time about 'business'. We exchanged a few words, agreed a course of action and shook hands.

     And that … is how to close a deal.

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of my best-selling 'The Simplest Sales Strategy' by clicking on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

HOW TO CLOSE A DEAL  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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A Recipe For Success

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business"A Recipe For Success" is the eighteenth in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     If you're anything like me you'll have had your share of setbacks in life. Disappointments too. No sweat, it's par for the course. You're most likely well aware that it's not the difficulties you encounter along the way that matter, it's how you deal with them. Crying over spilt milk gets you nowhere – finding a new supply is the answer. And finding new ways to confront events and situations is indeed a recipe for doing well in life.

     In that word 'recipe' lies my approach to living life in a happy frame of mind. A recipe of course implies a formula to be repeated; a process to run with over and over again. So with me. But while my recipe is consistant in concept, what goes into the mix varies with circumstance. I try quite deliberately to find novel approaches to each situation facing me. In this way I'm unpredictable to others but alert and keen within myself. I know that giving my imagination free rein can lead to magical outcomes.

     How do I go about igniting my innovative flame? How do I get myself into the inventive frame of mind required? This is where my magic recipe for sucess comes into play. The formula which I employ is actually remarkably simple but may be the opposite of what you expect.

     My strategy is not to immerse myself in addressing the point at issue, searching for ways to overcome it. No, rather I remove myself from the situation and forget about it altogether! I take myself away completely, both physically and mentally. Sounds contrary perhaps? How do you resolve things by ignoring them? But it works like a charm.

     My favoured course is to escape to the mountains. There I wander and absorb the clear air, nature and tranquility. Note the word 'wander'. Therein lies my second 'secret'. I don't set an agenda such as scaling a certain peak, reaching a specific destination or doing so within a particular time. Neither do I put my mind to work on a concentrated task. I simply wander and let the day take me where it will. In this way I am totally relaxed and become completely detached from all else save the wondrous beauty abundant around me. In this almost trance-like state my spirit soars and my imagination breaks free. Unshackled from the impediment of circumstances which create difficulty, the solutions float in to view in their own good time and with easy clarity.

     So, my recipe to dealing with setbacks and difficulties is -

          Withdraw from the situation

          Wander, don't strain

          Wait!

     Not only does my approach provide great results, it's easy and stress-free too. It enhances general well-being. There's also a wonderful bonus, magical in fact! It is this -

     Once you establish this strategy as your default system in meeting the demands of day-to-day life and the situations thrown up by it, disagreeable occurrences requiring of your attention arise less frequently. In fact bad stuff can diminish to the point of almost disappearing completely.

     Conversely, you're likely to experience a substantial uptick in pleasant situations occuring; circumstances which are positive and fun to confront. And how do you face these happy dilemmas? By following my same recipe as for troublesome ones of course. Withdraw, wander, wait. It's a magic recipe for success - in all scenarios! 

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy my best-selling 'Winning Big In Life And Business' by clicking on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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A Test Of Sanity

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”A Test Of Sanity" is the 17th in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

A TEST OF SANITY 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     My lack of employment was getting me down. In fact it was driving me mad. Each day out of work had become a test of sanity for me. But every cloud has a silver lining. There's always tomorrow ...

     Smartly dressed, hair combed, tie straight and in good time, I arrived for the job interview. The receptionist politely informed me that the first part of the appraisal process would comprise of a spatial ability psychometric test. I failed immediately by being totally clueless as to what the heck she was talking about!

     I was soon enlightened. She showed me into a tiny room in which there was only a small table and chair. On the table was a board with nine different shaped holes. Beside the board there were nine different shaped blocks. There was also a pack of twenty cigarettes, a box of matches and an ash-tray.

     The examiner arrived and told me that I had thirty minutes in which to place the nine different shaped blocks into the appropriate holes on the board. He blurted, “Your time starts now!” and dashed from the room. I sat down, picked up each of the blocks in turn and placed them into their matching holes on the board. Task completed. I sat back to wait out the remaining twenty-nine minutes and forty-five seconds.

     With nothing else to do, and although a non-smoker, I opened the pack of cigarettes, just out of curiosity. I withdrew one cigarette and again, just to pass the time, lit it up. It seemed like as good a time as any to try out smoking. I coughed and spluttered my way through the weed and stubbed out the butt in the ash-tray.

     Then I took all the shapes out of their holes … then put them back in again. Time was dragging so I lit up a second cigarette, smoked it, then stubbed it out in the ash-tray beside the remains of the first one. Then I repeated the pegs in/pegs out process and had another fag. I went through the routine over and over until I had taken the pegs in and out of their holes several dozen times and smoked all but one of the cigarettes. A thick fog filled the room.

     Eventually I drew on the last cigarette, took all of the pegs out of their holes and had just replaced the first of them into its space when the door of the room burst open.

     “Stop!” commanded the examiner. He looked at the board with just one peg in its hole, then to the ash-tray with its glut of discarded butts. He waved a hand at the choking smog, looked with pity at my grey face, open tie and decidedly disheviled appearance. With a wry smile he gloated, “Yes, it's a hell of a test!”

     Some time later he returned to the canteen where I was recovering over a much needed cup of tea. “Good news,” he announced, “One peg out of nine is 11.11%. The pass mark for the psychometric test is 10%. Congratulations.”

     “Fabulous,” I lied, as relieved as I was baffled. “So I have the job. When do I start?”

     “Oh, you haven't got the job. No way. The position is only open to non-smokers!”

     I stifled a scream into the sleeve of my jacket … then raced for the nearest pub.

     Consoling myself over a large whisky, and then another, I reasoned that being unemployed was maybe not so bad after all. Failing a test of sanity at least left me free to indulge my madness in my own time. What's that I said about every (smoke) cloud and silver linings?

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

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A TEST OF SANITY  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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The Trouble With Experts

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business"The Trouble With Experts” is the 16th in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

THE TROUBLE WITH EXPERTS 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     The trouble with experts is that they are most often anything but expert!

     By example, I have benefitted from numerous commercial contracts where my input as an outside consultant should never have been needed had the inhouse executives been even remotely up to their jobs. So while I'm grateful for their incompetence, I'm certainly no fan of experts. I particularly dislike even to hear the word. The more so when it's used by someone to describe themselves! But even when attributed by one person to another, I seriously distrust the term.

     As a natural sceptic, my life experience has tended only to reinforce and validate my lack of faith in their ill-perceived wisdom. Their prognostications are often a masterclass in predictive ineptitude. Those anointed as 'experts' by the political and media class are no more accurate (or honest) in presenting views and forecasting long-term trends than the average man or woman in the street. The fact is that, while proficiency in a particular discipline may enhance the capacity of the specialist to explain the past, it can offer precious little guidance to the future.

     With this cautionary principle in mind, I find it advisable to remain circumspect in offering guidance to others. Even as one who has practiced my calling for decades and am familiar with the concepts and strategies of my subject. I may be a veteran of life and entrepreneurial adventures and have travelled the roads of victory and defeat extensively, but I still find it wise to avoid being labeled an expert. I do however, acknowledge the term 'specialist'.

     As such, my primary point of departure is to confess how little I know. I can make well educated guesses, of course, but cannot be one hundred percent sure of anything. I simply endeavour to apply my experience and success in life to simplify what others see as, or construct as, complex. My goal, your goal, is to seek more understanding. No more, no less. This can only be achieved through independent analysis and simple thinking.

     The lives of many are, at the best of times, theatres of confusion marked by a profusion of inaccuracies and propaganda. There is little clarity. The blizzard of social media commentary is especially distorting. 'Transgressors' are ridiculed, threatened and cancelled when their views cut against the grain of a plot line with a favoured political hue and a distorted narrative of right and wrong. Independent thinking outside the box, working things out for yourself, is neither encouraged nor rewarded. You must follow the 'experts' (the so-called 'science' too) or be damned.

     So, exercising an independent mindset takes courage! It also takes dilligence and research – lots of it. Don't rely on outside 'experts'. Work to be your own specialist. Find sources of opposing views. That way you can size up the respective arguments as well as compare what they state as facts. By the way, don't trust any fact-checkers; none of them. They themselves are corrupt and biased. Look for good independent sources of information; those with integrity and not beholden financially to any third party, individual or entity of any description. Rare, but they do exist.

     For those of you prepared to sacrifice popularity, follow your own instincts, let your imagination flourish and arrive at conclusions which often run contrary to conventional wisdom, the payback is monumental. Yes, defying the mainstream, the herd and the 'experts' is seriously rewarding. The reward is called intellectual independence. You don't need any expert to tell you that!

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Read any of my best-selling books and novels by clicking on the image below.

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THE TROUBLE WITH EXPERTS  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.
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The Mother Of Invention

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business"The Mother Of Invention” is the fifteenth in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

THE MOTHER OF INVENTION 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     Two questions.

     What factor is it which, more than any other, will drive you to create imaginative solutions to situations in your life or business which may be holding you back from realising your full potential?

     and ...

     Who is the mother of Invention? Read on ...

     Invention lived with his mother and father in the small town of Cutting Edge in Brainchild County. With little money to spend on necessities, let alone luxury items, his dad was a jack of all trades. He hand-crafted from wood all the furniture in their log cabin home which he had himself built. Every repair around the house and outwith it he carried out too. Invention often assisted. He soon acquired his dad's skills.

     While dad was the creative labour, it was Invention's mother who was the inspiration and driving force of the family. Strong-willed and determined it was she who saw to it that things got done. Her verve and vitality extended to her parenting. She was a strict, but fair, disciplinarian to young Invention.

     His mother saw to it that to him fell the tasks of cleaning around the house, keeping the yard tidy and running errands. Willing as he was in carrying out his regular chores, Invention was also an imaginative lad and constantly seeking ways to streamline his activities. He reckoned that saving time and labour with an inventive approach provided more time for indulging his typical boyhood pursuits of playing football, going fishing and chasing girls. But it didn't work out that way.

     For whenever Invention imaginatively reduced his workload and the time spent on it, his mother found more tasks – chopping wood, painting, creating a vegetable garden – to fill the time. It was for Invention a never-ending treadmill of finding solutions to save on his time and effort only for the time saved to be intruded on by new work to attend to!

     But Invention was not to be defeated. To this wider logistical difficulty of more work being added to his load each time he introduced a labour-saving solution, he also applied his imagination. His solution was a simple one. To recruit skilled assistance.

     “If I can multiply myself,” he reckoned, “Then I can multiply exponentially the work I can undertake.”

     He also concluded that by industrialising his activities and organising them in a production line fashion of logical sequences, there'd be no double tracking or repeat handling. He also formulated new technologies with the help of his gang of best friends with whom he hung out in his depressingly rare spare time. These lads were like-minded boys with vivid imaginations and determinedly mischievous.

     There was Jimmy Watt who spent his days at home in the kitchen, regularly fascinated by the power of the steam rising from the boiling pan of water and lifting the heavy lid of the pan with it. Georgie Carver was a gardening whizz kid, constantly experimenting with crops and yields. Tommy Edison liked tinkering with electricity and creating light from it. Alex Bell messed about a lot with tin cans and lengths of string through which he claimed it was possible to communicate. Henry Ford knocked together the best soap box carts anywhere in the county and Jimmy Spangler had a suction device which picked up bits of paper as if by magic. He called it a hoover.

     In no time at all Invention and his crew had turned the running, repair and maintenance of Invention's house and garden, then their own homes too, into industrial style operations of amazing efficiency. Steam power drove machines; crops of peanuts, soy and sweet potatoes thrived; electric lighting extended working hours; instant communication eradicated message carrying and speedy motor transport was available too. So effective were their solutions, the lads even had time to play football, go fishing and chase girls. Not only were they delighted, their families were too.

     None more so than Invention's mother. She was as pleased as punch and proud too with what Invention achieved. On Invention's part, he was smart enough to realise that without his mother, all that he and his mates had achieved would not have been possible. It was her drive, determination and discipline which led Invention to finding the solutions to the situations which she insisted he attend to.

     So all of these innovations came about as a result of Invention's strict parenting. All resulted from his mum's relentless urging. And who was his mother? What was her name? It was 'Necessity' of course. Yes, Necessity was the mother of Invention!

  I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy my best-selling 'Winning Big In Life And Business' by clicking on the image below.

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THE MOTHER OF INVENTION  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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Where's Your Spirit?

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business"Where's Your Spirit?" is the fourteenth in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

WHERE'S YOUR SPIRIT? 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     Where's your spirit? What is it? Let's describe it this way -

     My ethos is to do good and have fun. My purpose is to be happy and useful. Joy, purpose and meaning are what matter in life. The most effective way to achieve these and create a better world for yourself and everyone is through kindness and compassion. You need to cultivate awareness of, and responsibility for, your profound self in order to open up a world of love and joyful living. When you act with selflessness and generosity you are engaging your inner being, your spirit.

     So far, so good, but spiritual life may seem a rather radical choice in present day society. Current cultural norms entail the constant outsourcing of beliefs to things which have no higher value. People align with 'false gods' and search in deserted places for greater meaning and purpose. Looking externally and materialistically to create happiness or generate value is the key to neither spiritual awareness nor a happy life.

     Everything you want is within you. Everything you seek is connected to your conscience which operates both consciously and through your inner subconscious. So it operates semi-automatically; meaning you can access it - provided you choose to. Doing so is a good move. Getting to know your own spirit is the secret to living joyfully in the modern world.

     Spirituality is your awareness of both self and of the intangible. Whether you are aware of it or not, there is a spiritual dimension to everything and everybody. It affects your entire act of living - relationships, career, health - and it impacts on how you see yourself in relation to everyone and everything. Spiritual principles in your life are enriching, magical and fun. Don't overlook the fact that laughter is a strong part of it. Life is your playground when you employ a wonderful sense of humour.

     You can find beauty, or excuses, in anything. It's better by far to choose beauty. Gratitude, forgiveness and self-acceptance are the most basic ways for you to actively generate a purposeful direction in your life. With it will come fresh perspectives and rewarding experiences. When you practice kindness, compassion and a forgiving nature you improve your mindset, enrich your inner being and empower yourself. These positive attitudes will transform your life. Personal development is not something to be sought in isolation from your spiritual self. Both are part of the one. The two go hand in hand.

     Remember that life is a boundless mystery filled with wonder. Be curious. It is good to ask questions. You don't need to know all the answers. Let go of the idea that you need to be perfect. That is a cruel illusion. Rather create the change needed in your life by becoming the change. That is the winning formula.

     Make it your number one priority to discover where's your spirit. Embrace it, cherish it. You'll be glad you did.

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of my best-selling 'The Road To Joyful Living' by clicking on the image below.

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WHERE'S YOUR SPIRIT?  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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MICKY GRAMLIN, R.I.P.

I learned today that my dear friend and mighty pillar of support, Micky Gramlin, passed away in November 2021.

Micky was one of the first members at IBO Toolbox and established her presence there as one of the site's foremost presenters.

Her contributions were forthright, fun and fabulously insightful. She possessed a clear understanding of what really makes business tick and translated that into the development of her online enterprises. Like all top entrepreneurs she was unafraid of hard work and knew to concentrate on helping others. This she accomplished with ease, grace and flair. In all my experience I have rarely, if ever, encountered such talent, willingness and mischievous wit. She was also incredibly courageous.

God, I'll miss her.

For those like me, who knew her, through IBO or otherwise, this link is to a short obituary - https://putnamcountypost.com/obituaries/606519

R.I.P. Micky - you were, and remain, a true star, a brilliant light in every sense. 

* Poignant words written by Micky, from 2014.

SPRING FEVER?

The snow has finally melted
for just a little while.
Usually I work and work
and 
never notice what goes round.
But the sun and the blue sky
are beckoning to me,
whispering for me to join them.
A walk through the park
or 
on the waters edge.
To let let the gentle breeze
capture my hair.
Awaken my senses
and 
just let go of things gone cold.

Micky G

 

 

 

 

 

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When Less Is Better

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”When Less Is Better” is the thirteenth in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

WHEN LESS IS BETTER 
by Joseph Tom Riach

    In my early days in business I enroled in and attended training courses in various disciplines relevant to my self-employed status. It was a good move. The schooling helped to supplement and accelerate the on-job learning which was coming at me thick and fast!

    One memorable course was that in 'Sales And Selling'. The class master was an accomplished sales professional of some renown. Max Roberts had made a name for himself publishing and selling encyclopedias. What he had to say carried considerable weight. His lessons were indeed eye-openers for all. One module he presented was titled, “When Less Is Better!”

    He opened his presentation to the class with the demand, “Where's your spirit?” … then followed up with, “And I'm not talking about the whisky flask in your back pocket Drooth!” At which he'd pointedly identify with a fixed stare the unfortunate pupil who he knew to enjoy a sly nip between sessions.

    His next question (and note he was questioning, not telling) was to ask, “Why do you want to sell?” Then he'd pick a pupil to give their answer. A common response at this point would be, “To give my customers something useful.”

    “Wrong!” Bob would roar back. “That's logic. Out front and ten press-ups!” Yes he did that. He understood that physical discipline enforces intellectual learning, and vice versa.

    Then he turned to his next pupil/victim and repeated his question, “Why do you want to sell?”

    More thought would typically be given by this student before maybe stuttering out a slightly uncertain, “To make more money?”

    “Wrong again! That's emotion. Out front, give me ten.” Male, female. No-one was spared the physical torture.

    Eventually he turned his attention to me, seated at the front of the class (the best location when learning) and eager to answer.

    “You, yes you Riach. Why do you want to sell?”

    I knew exactly why I wanted to sell. It was the whole reason that I was there in the class. Without any delay I retorted quite confidently. “It's because I'm determined to succeed!”

    Bob looked at me carefully. He paused, a smile slowly spreading across his face.

    “That's right!” he eventually exclaimed. “That is spirit!”

    “Spirit you see,” he went on, again addressing the whole class, “Is what defines success. You need logic. You must learn your subject, know the facts, be able to express them. Even more, you must recognise emotion within yourself and within your customers. That's what creates sales. But without spirit, without unqualified dedication to succeed, you will never achieve anything in any area of life or business. Bloody-minded determination is what defines success. It separates the winners from the also rans.

    So my friends, logic, emotion and spirit, let's call it L.E.S. A case, if you like, of 'less' really is better!

    Better still reverse the order. Call it S.E.L. That makes 'Sell'! This is the correct sequence. Spirit comes first, without it you are and will be nothing. Next is emotion. Display it, feel it, use it, appeal to it. Lastly, apply the logic to cement the sale. Remember - L.E.S. in order to S.E.L.!"

    With those easy memory prompts embedded in my mind I've never forgotten Max - and I've never forgotten when 'less is better'. How could I?

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of my best-selling 'The Simplest Sales Strategy' by clicking on the image below.

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WHEN LESS IS BETTER  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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A Rather Nasty Rash

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”A Rather Nasty Rash” is the 12th in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

A RATHER NASTY RASH
by Joseph Tom Riach

    It is unfortunate but true that certain sections of modern society appear to suffer from a highly contagious and rather nasty rash. Or to be more precise, a rash of nastiness! Symptoms typically experienced by those infected range from mild displays of unkindness to others through to outright hostility. Sufferers show little regard for the sterling human qualities such as bravery, perseverance, self-sacrifice and community spirit of others but tend to celebrate weak will and failure. It seems that those who weep, wail and display personas akin to half-wits being devoured by flesh-eating aliens takes prevalence over decent people who smile, take criticism with good grace, retain composure and have a proper idea of what is important in life. In short, those with a sense of perspective. But no, to such a reasonably balanced individual the reaction of rash-infected hysterics is often, "Where is your victim-hood? Why are you not more miserable and aggrieved! You're not crying enough.”

    The trend is apparent in, among other places, the world of professional football. As games are played in full public view and real time, they provide perfect insight. As a life-long follower of the game, I played in my youth and dreamed of becoming a famous player. While I and my super-star heroes of the day were no angels on the field of play (nor off it), neither were we guilty of the petulant behaviour of present day players. All wanted to win of course but there was a certain code of acceptable conduct and no question of mis-placed self-importance. Responsibility for win, loss or draw was accepted with reasonable grace … the more so after time to cool down and enjoy a pint or two in the bar with opponents! All were in it for fun and glory – not for vindictiveness and self-pity.

    Players and fans alike prided themselves on the quality of displaying a passion for the game in general, and for the team they followed in particular. It was largely well-meaning and harmless. Yet in current times it has increasingly come to be characterised by blatant cheating, hurling obscenities at the opposition, the refereee and even your own team.

    Being professional, or a fan, has come to mean defending the indefensible when one of 'your' players misbehaves, and feigning outrage when a rival steps out of line. It means railing at perceived injustice week after week, while never acknowledging when 'your' team gets the rub of the green. It means earning thousands of pounds a week (players) or spending thousands of pounds a year (fans) for the right to be indescribably angry for two hours every week. And if you're not deeply unhappy - then you just don't care enough!

    Passion or poison, that's the question. The fact is that when I look at players' and fans' behaviour, as at sectors of life in general, I can neither see nor believe that these people have anything to do with me, my ideals, my way of living. They don't represent my notions of fun, affiliation or sportsmanship. How can they be capable of such spite and malice over a mere game, a pursuit which fundamentally doesn't matter? A supposedly entertaining diversion from life's drudgery has become the focal point for all their frustration and hatred. A sense of humour is seen as a sign of weakness. Fans and players seem motivated solely by negativity. A desire to see rivals suffer has overtaken the wish for their own team to do well. It's far worse than just a rather nasty rash!

    Yet it needn't be so. The good news is that rashes, nasty or otherwise, can be cured. Better still is to live life in such ways as to minimise the risk of contracting them in the first place. So with football, and life generally. Conduct yourself with spirit and with good humour. It is perfectly possible to be competitive but compassionate too. Not at all a hard balance to strike and quite achievable. Work at winning while accepting that others have similar goals. Respect their dedication rather than deriding it. Then you can expect to enjoy some of the same consideration in return - and no nasty rash!

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of my latest best-seller - 'The Road To Joyful Living' - by clicking on the image below.

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A RATHER NASTY RASH  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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Delight The Customer

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”Delight The Customer” is the eleventh in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

DELIGHT THE CUSTOMER 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     There are many elements can contribute to achieving great outcomes in life and business. You must, for example, possess determination to succeed and be prepared to outwork everyone else. You must care about people, be they your friends and colleagues in personal life or your customers in business. There is in fact a direct parallel between personal and business life. The same attitudes and practices are required in order to do well in both spheres. Not everyone is cut out for business but everyone is required to manage the business of running their lives. So what follows is relevant to all.

     Much is made of formal education. The student experience is rightly viewed as a good thing but you can better pick up what you most need to know for success in the real world by living in it. Try out different jobs, learn about yourself. You need to know how to sell, that is as in how to present your best self to those you interact with. You are the product. You are a repeat sale. Present yourself so that people seek out your company; so that they come back to you time and time again. Delight the customers!

     Take an interest in, but don't concern yourself with, popular media, stockmarkets, bank rates, politics and the like. These are things you cannot change. Concentrate on what you can change.

     It's common in youth to at first feel that you are not going anywhere. Drifting is quite normal early on, often good fun … for a while. Learn from it then set your direction. The product 'You' may be little different from others but offer your 'customers' friendly service. That's it. No need to do anything exceptional – live by delighting your 'customers'. Life or business, the rule applies.

     It's never too late to start. You won't get things right first time. Just remember that the golden key to turning an ordinary 'you' or business into an extraordinary one is to change the one thing which you can change in others - the customer experience. You must possess a genuine desire to delight customers. Anyone who delights customers, succeeds. The test is not to have the greatest idea but to learn. Learn your strengths, what it is that you can best do for customers. What is it that you can bring to the party which others haven't?

     Ask yourself, “What it is that people/customers think the next day after dealing with you. What goes through their mind? What do they want? Where will they go for their next interaction?”

Answer - They'll go to the place where they enjoyed a memorable experience!

     In due course people do not always remember a product, the purchase nor the price. But they always remember a delightful experience. They remember how they were treated. You'll not find a customer with a good buying experience who doesn't come back.

     By the same token, customers never forget a bad experience. If memory is of unpleasantness, bad attitude, rudeness or disinteresr, they'll never return.

     So, make friends out of every customer and establish relationships by projecting your positive self on to them. Build a family atmosphere. Develop trust. Work especially with better-than-yourself people. You move in the direction of those you associate with. Learn from them … and delight them too!

     Thank you for reading. Did I delight the customer? Did I delight you?

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy my best-selling 'Winning Big In Life And Business' by clicking on the image below.

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DELIGHT THE CUSTOMER  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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Key Words To Live And Prosper By

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”Key Words To Live And Prosper By” is the 10th article n my 2022 series based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

KEY WORDS TO LIVE AND PROSPER BY 
by Joseph Tom Riach

   

   As a young boy I was a member of the the Boys' Brigade. The movement was based on military type discipline and Christian ethics. Each Friday evening I'd spit 'n polish my uniform and run to the local church hall to be 'on parade' for 7 p.m. sharp.

    In the Boys' Brigade my friends and I were schooled in a host of activities which included marching, outdoor pursuits, life saving, first aid and gymnastics through to religious education and caring in the community. Drilled into us was the principle to help others in life. In addition to the legion of projects we pursued in order to win our various proficiency badges, we got up to all sorts of mischief as young lads tend to do. They were fun days.

    Then there was golf. Not at all an elitist sport in my home nation of Scotland. Folks from all walks of life play. As a young man I played every day in the summer months. The long hours of daylight saw me tee off at 6 in the morning and I'd easily complete my round and be at work for 9. In the evening I'd walk off the 18th green as late as 11.30 p.m. at the end of my second round of the day. With such dedication to a game I love, small wonder that I played off a low handicap. But eventually the golf had to take a back seat to my first business venture.

   I learned from older heads that when you start a business you'll almost certainly need to put in some money. To begin with you might not earn any money back. After a while you might start to get back some money but still not as much as you're spending. Eventually, with a lot of work and good luck you'll hopefully get more money coming in than you spend ….. luverlee profit!

    But I was impatient. “What,” I thought, “If I could start a business without having to wait? What if could -

    Start with zero or very little money

    Never have to put in any more money

    And make 100% profits from day one.”

    That was my dream. Except that it's not a dream! It's exactly what I did - and have done throughout my entrepreneurial career. The key is to start off by applying essential principles to your endeavour. These are -

    Work with discipline and dedication - Work to help others – Work to have fun – Work at something you love – Insist on profit from every transaction and every aspect of your enterprise. Yes, those same principles I learned as a lad at Boys' Brigade and as player on the golf course!

     Here's just one classic example of my many 'easy and free' enterprises -

    For many years I helped hundreds of golfers to enjoy the game here in Portugal by establishing a golf holidays tour company. I set it up for zero cost, having first arranged tour operator rates with golf courses and hotels in the region. I operated under a local company's tour licence whereby they benefited from all my visitors' transport requirements. I researched then wrote to every golf club in Britain and Ireland. Enquirers were sent a quote, visitors received a bespoke service tailored to their requirements. This included restaurant vouchers, day trip discounts and introductions to local estate agencies. So, I created multiple 'no effort' income streams to add to profits. All guests paid in advance, no out of pocket expense for me whatsover. In due course I moved the business on for substantial profit.

    To do it took discipline and dedication of course but I loved every minute. The work was fun, profitable and helped others. It's rewarding in every way to know that the assistance you give can have a positive impact on people's lives. It's satisfying to know that through the years my 'work' has done just that.

    Are you ready to embrace those same key words to live and prosper by?

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy of my best-selling 'The Secret World Of Self-Employment' by clicking on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

KEY WORDS TO LIVE AND PROSPER BY  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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On The Side Of Freedom

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”On The Side Of Freedom” is the ninth in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

ON THE SIDE OF FREEDOM 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     “Freedom!” cried William Wallace … or was it Mel Gibson? No sweat, it's the sentiment which matters. And 'Freedom' matters a lot to me. In fact it's central to my very existence. The urge, no, the need to be free resides at my very core. It has always been so.

     The place, the time, the culture in which I was raised demanded that a free spirit burn within all of its sons and daughters. No one was excused. From early childhood, through formative youth, adolescent and adult years the determination to be free, indelibly etched in my inner being, has dictated all that I am and do. And why not?

     Being raised in a free environment has stood me in good stead. I like what freedom stands for. I'm inspired by the history of all those who cherish freedom. Be they warriors such as Wallace, writers such as Orwell, leaders such as Mandela or artists such as Rockwell (Speech, Worship, Want, Fear). All championed the free world in which we live. Or in which we have lived up until now. I never thought to see the day, but our free world is under siege. Many are blind to the threat. Mark Twain's canny wit captures their lack of perception well - “It's easier to fool someone than it is to convince them they've been fooled.”

     I'm happy to debate my assertions regarding the principles of a free society. The right to debate/challenge is a pillar of freedom. But I don't want to see freedom trashed. The censorious nonsense of much present day politics is ignorant and divisive. It's school bully stuff. I respect people for who they are, not what they are. Why should any free person be fearful of what they can think, say and do without falling foul of some self-appointed enforcer who will try to destroy their lives.

     Those intent on telling people what to do, imposing tyrannical restrictions, denying basic freedoms, banning things and making lives more complicated have got it seriously wrong. They seek to crush the innate spirit of liberty and creativity which makes us human. Not me. I nurture that spirit in myself and admire it in others. I respect the ideals of personal indepence and self-investment.

     I don't like big government. In a high-tax, high-regulation, high-control society only the rich, or those with 'special connections', get to prosper. That's not right. Everyone who is prepared to contribute to society in a meaningful way should have the opportunity to share in the wealth which is, after all, created by private businesses and individuals (often in the most challenging circumstances), not by the leeches of the impotent public sector and their cronies.

     I am on the side of those who want control of your own lives; who want to build a business, to save, to learn, to support your families, to hand things on to your children. I'm proud of what these values stand for in the world. They are the values of upbeat, positive people. They produce positive results. They work.

     All it takes for you to be part of this free world is to decide to do it. Form a clear plan and trust in your ability. Then get on with it. Work toward your dream with ruthless focus. Taking personal responsibility for your life puts you firmly on the side of freedom. On the side of Wallace. Where else would you rather be?

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy my best-selling 'Winning Big In Life And Business' by clicking on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

ON THE SIDE OF FREEDOM  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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A Train Set Named Emotion

Joseph Tom Riach – Author of successful living books and mystery novels, vivid views of life and business”A Train Set Named Emotion” is the 8th in my 2022 series of articles based on my real life experiences, professional insights, personal views and fun stories. My hope is that in them you find joy and inspiration.

A TRAIN SET NAMED EMOTION 
by Joseph Tom Riach

     Much as I longed for it, I never in childhood became the owner of an electric train set. So handling the precision-crafted model locomotive in the toy shop kindled in me a nostalgia for those days long gone. I realised of course that buying the replica would not bring back those times. Yet I would easily have purchased the exquisite beauty had the shop assistant understood my yearning and made even a cursory effort to tap into my underlying emotion. But she didn't. She gave a dry presentation, concentrating only on highlighting features of the product. Her chance of a sale disappeared as if in a puff of smoke from a steam engine's funnel!

     The episode reminded me of the powerful sway that our emotions hold over us in buying situations.

     Has anyone for example ever bought security alarms other than through fear of being victim to a break-in or possible assault? Was a bed ever purchased where the buyer hadn't envisaged themselves comfortably tucked up in it? Did life insurance ever sell without a graphic scenario of bleak consequences being seeded in the buyer's mind? And what about an investment without the exciting prospect of gain? Or would you pay a sports channel subscription fee if you expected to be bored by watching?

     No, in every instance your buying decision is based on the expectation of your purchase creating outcomes which satisfy your perceived needs. Needs driven by emotion!

     So be it joy, fear, greed, desire, anger, sadness or surprise, or whichever of the many other human emotions, it's necessary when on the other side of the equation as a seller to understand the need to target the emotional response of your buyer. Do this by asking questions. 'Why' is powerful, then paint word pictures or visually present real ones to ignite the buyer's dominant emotion. Highlight the benefits of your goods or services rather than the features. Appealing to emotions is everything.

     I, for instance, don't miss the things of my youth. I miss youth itself! - as recalled by the excitement, fun and adventure of childhood times. Reflecting on that, I did return to the shop and I did buy the train set. I persuaded myself that my emotional driver for doing so was compassion for the ineptitude of the sales girl. Or was it compassion of a different kind? A desire to make a wee boy's dream come true maybe? 

     Aa-a-all aboard … Toot-toot!!

 I am Tom Riach. I live and write in the sunny south of Portugal. 

Claim your special copy my best-selling 'The Simplest Sales Strategy' by clicking on the image below.

Joseph Tom Riach, Author – Paperbacks and Ebooks for sale on Amazon

A TRAIN SET NAMED EMOTION  is an original copyright Tom Riach feature.
I hope you enjoyed this short article and found it to be of value.
To learn more please visit me on my Author Page.
See you there! Regards, Tom.

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© Copyright Joseph T.Riach 1998-present. All rights reserved.
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