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About jcorb2020@gmail.com

I am a mentor, life coach, social entrepreneur, and motivational speaker. My passion involves assisting others in discovering and cultivating their hidden potential(s) — masters in Social Services with a focus in Nonprofit Management. View all posts by jcorb2020@gmail.com →

Quitters Never Win! Whats Makes Folks Just Give Up.

March 10, 2020Inspirational, Personaljcorb2020@gmail.com

By: James Corbin II

More than two months had passed since the beginning of the new year, which is when millions of individuals participated in the subsequent ritual of proclaiming some sort resolution which includes making a significant change that they wish to see come into fruition. A usual resolution decision entails making a specifc betterment to life style, health, prosperity or new assessments.

Well, in any case, under taking a betterment of change extracts an enormous toll involving effort, energy, and focus, which many individuals just don’t have to give in a rush -rush society which we find ourselves in today. So, quietly our dream of change begins to dissipate into just another attempt at reform and nothing to show for the effort.

The question remains, what happened to the vison of change? Why did you give up and not keep pursuing the difference until it came about? The problem with attempting to undergo your challenge later means that later may never take place. So, you just give up on your dream(s) of change instead. It or not, some steps can be taken to avoid the dilemma of not completing the task.

If you ask a million individuals why they gave up and didn’t pursue their dreams, you would probably have a million different answers, but the fact remains most solutions fall into a slim picking of categories that can be easily examined once identified—then modified and reinstated to gain new momentum into pursuing your goals toward personal betterment.

Giving up on something usually begins in mind due to a lack of interest or directly over excerptions. Often when we start these ideas to bring about change, we fail to recognize the time and the energy necessary to bring about a recognizable difference. Also, if we fail to put benchmarks in place, there’s no way actually to measure our success. Therefore, it appears as if we are in the exact position before we decided to undergo the challenge.

Whatever the reason for quitting, whether from over working, a loss of interest, or attempting to find a less complicated way to continue. The point is, you simply gave up trying to meet your goal, and now that “thing -to -do” will hang over your head slowly wearing down your subconsciousness as a nagging voice in your mind. Some of the usual reasons for quitting can include the following:

Lack of discipline or focus
Unnoticing improvements
Not sure on how to move forward aka plateauing
No support or absence of a good peer group to keep you on track
Self-doubt
Lack of momentum

Whichever of the above reasons chosen for quitting it all surmise to one thing, giving up! But, as the saying goes, quitters never win, and winners never quit! The key word is never because how can somebody win if they never complete the task. This why in some cases quitting certain cases quitting should never be an option but instead a last resort until the time is right again to proceed. The top 3 Reasons why quitting should not be an option consist of the following:

Reason 1. Quitting can quickly become a learned behavior.

Our brains operate off a reward-based learning system, which involves a triggering process. This triggering process is a direct result of a survival mechanism instilled in our minds to function with little to no thought. Once behavior sets in subconsciously, it becomes habit forming and unconsciously viewed as an alternative when difficulties set in. That’s why not completing a difficult task and quitting can become more of a crutch crippling an individual’s success rate weakening the resiliency of the mind.

Reason 2. Quitting blocks all alterative outcomes and experiences.

Sometimes having a critical eye from the outside can allow some powerful insight that may have been overlooked or went unnoticed. Quitting cuts off insightful experiences that contribute to self-growth and development that can be used in other areas.

Reason 3. Quitting destroys self-confidence.

When you are achieving the goal(s) no matter how small they are, reaching goals can become exhilarating and even liberating but none of these things can be experienced when quitting is involved. Self-confidence is built from winning and applying what you learned correctly. When you stop, you cannot grow from the momentum of success.

We can use each of these control triggers to help form new habits circumventing the action of not continuing. A few practical steps to take to when you feel just feel as if you can’t go on or just losing interest are:

Revisit the reason why you choose to take on such goals. We tend to forget our reason for wanting to set out to make a specific change. Complacancy is mental and spiritual quick sand, and it becomes the norm in many cases invoved with giving up. One way of not falling into the trap of being complacient is to revist the reason why you wish to see such a change. For example, go back to the orginal motivations for change and reapeat them each day until they become second nature.

Find a more rewarding way to obtain tangible smaller goals – Gaining momentum is critical to achieving new levels. Recharging the process of personal change consists of baby-steps, instead of big leaps and bounds. The idea is to create a snowball effect of rolling down a hill, gainging more mass and momentum to push through any barriers. Soon the process begins to take a life of its own. Also, benchmarking auspicious areas when reached and celebrate gains to gain more momentum.

Find a support group or a mentor – Raeching out to professional mentors who had success doing what you wish to achieve can eliminate a lot of guess work and save a hord of time as well as energy. A good mentor can encourage you to keep going until all objectives are obtained; having someone that completed identical steps can be very assuring. Also, sometimes, just finding someone who’s going through a similar challenge can be very supportive. That’s part of the benefit of finding a support group to work with you during he trial.

Learn how to practice patience- My grandmother would say that Rome wasn’t built in a day!” meaning that big things take time to make, so don’t look for something sophisticated to be toatally put in place through overnight. Paitienece, aswell as persistence, is a verture. In the long run, you will be successful. E.g. The turtle verse the hare fable was an excellent example of this concept at work.

To summarize, the takeaway from this piece is that 80% of winning involves merely showing up. Therefore, winning or being successful does not include giving up or quitting. The idea is to keep pushng forward until you reach the desired outcome. Allowing the temptation of giving up to seep in only means that you have lost focus or desire to undergo the change you once invisioned.

Manifesting change requires the correct input of energy as well as dedication. Most of all, change requires some planning outlining the best path to take when undergoing a super set of tasks. It should also include benchmarks to help identify goals and objectives when reached, and most importantly, a celebration when these objectives have been completed. I genuinely hope these guidelines will keep you on track for success, and giving up or quitting is eliminated from your lexicon.

Those who fail to plan, plan to fail! Strategies vs Plans vs Tactics

February 3, 2020Community, Personaljcorb2020@gmail.com

By: James E Corbin II

In the previous post we outlined S.M.A.R.T goals and objectives, therefore its only right that we overview the terminology used effective in planning. Like in a game of chess, strategy, planning and right tactics is what set a Master Chess player apart from a ordinary player. Besides, what good is it to have a great idea but not know how to execute it!? A solid plan can easily put the odds in your favor.

Thoughts and ideas pop into our heads all day and night. Experts estimate that the average human brain has at least 50,000 views a day, which breaks down to an average of 2,100 – 3,000 thoughts an hour, which is incredible to say the least. Also, if you THINK about this, how many of those ideas consisted of beneficial ideas that could help you or the community.

Even the world, if only you knew how to execute it. Further researching the terminologies to help gain a better understanding of the differences in their meaning and how each is used in the practical planning stages. Understanding these terms will better help to implement an idea more accurately. Exploring the three concepts; strategy vs. tactic vs. plan is beneficial for a better understanding so each can be correctly utilizing when manifesting.

Let’s begin with the term tactic, which is often used interchangeably with strategy, but they are not the same. Tactics consist of short-term methods used to gain a specific objective, whereas strategies consist of long-term goals to reach an overall plan. Also, known as Initiatives, tactics usually involve best practices to obtain an objective. A good tactic should enhance the overall strategy while having a clear purpose with measurable outcomes.

Tactics can be altered based on the success of your procedure. An excellent example of a tactic would consist of buttering up your boss with his / her favorite items a week or two before you approach him/her about how you’re under-utilized and underpaid. That tactic is called ‘sucking -up.” Humor!

A plan comprises a list of steps that must be taken to achieve a specific goal. It addresses the how, when, and where involved with the execution as well as approach. Plans are essential to achieving success because they demonstrate insightful thoughts toward a specific goal.

A strategy is a long-term direction toward a particular vision leading to a specific goal. It is more significant than a plan and can include more than one destination. It encompasses many possible paths toward a likely outcome. It also incorporates influences and can surmise the end product. Effective strategic planning can be separated into three equal sections; strategic thinking, long range planning, and operational planning.

The Strategic section addresses -the overall vison (who, what, why, and how) or a broad perspective as well as reflection
The Long-range planning section- includes an in-depth understanding of issues, facts, and figures as well as SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis.
The operational planning section- involves creating a functional plan with SMART goals and objectives.

The 5 P’s of Strategy:

Strategy can be dissected further into five separate but equal components, according to Mintzberg (1987). He describes the 5 p’s of strategy, which are: Plan, Pattern, Position, Perspective, and Ploy.

Plan-Before implementing any effective action, a well throughout plan is encouraged to be developed. This plan must include structured strategies and tactics that must be carried out under the program.

Pattern– involves previous strategies that may have been successful or needs more thought and consideration. The idea is to form a systematic pattern in the decision-making process.

Position– It’s imperative to consider how you desire to be observed following the implementation of a plan.

Perspective– The broader perspective must be taken into consideration. It is important to consider how others currently view you, as well as how this view may be shifted either in your favor or not.

Ploy– can be an excellent strategic option. By implementing an unforeseen plan, an individual can electrify their environment, creating the desired outcome to help reach a goal. Ploy should also be considered as a tactic when things are going in an undesired direction.

In closing, a strategy takes into consideration all possible influencing factors, both seen and hidden. It should encompass the entire gamut of possibilities and not just a one ended result. Just remember plans, focus on the how as well as outlining the necessary steps which must be taken to achieve the goal(s). Tactics, are short term methods used to achieve an objective which in turns attains the set goal(s)

Now that we know the differences in the terms, lets us use them effectively in obtaining success.

Mulder, P. (2018). 5 P’s of Strategy by Henry Mintzberg. Retrieved [02/02/020] from toolshero: https://www.toolshero.com/strategy/5-ps-of-stratege

Mintzberg, H. (1987). The strategy concept I: Five Ps for strategy. California management review, 30(1), 11-24.

New Year’s Resolutions and Goal Setting Theory

December 23, 2019Personaljcorb2020@gmail.com

By: James E Corbin II

Here we are, at the start of another new year, ready to continue moving forward in our life’s journey. The beginning of the new year represents several things for a significant number of people like; the beginning of a new cycle, another do-over, survival of the fittest, hope, and blessings, to name a few. The start of the new year possesses a definite symbolic attribute meaning of new beginning and transformation. That’s why many people say, “out with the old, in with the new!” Then finally, the start of the new year can mean just another full revolution around our G-Class star (For the techy folks).

To me, the new year represents transformation and a new beginning. I feel blessed to have another opportunity to fulfill my life’s purpose. Therefore, I’m appreciative of seeing another year come and go. I set a lot of goals last year and completed a lot. But I still have a lot more goals I wish to cover this year, so I’m laying out my top strategies for successful goal keeping and hope that it helps someone to manage better their attempt to reach their goals in the process. Before I give my recipe for successful goal setting, allow me to talk about unsuccessful goal setting and why I didn’t achieve my goal(s).

In the past, I was just like everyone else attempting to make a big New Year’s resolutions only to see my dreams and aspirations go flat or slowly fade away within the next few weeks. I truly meant well and attempted to keep the recommendations, but it just didn’t pan out that way. Therefore, I failed in the attempt. Most people like setting New Year’s Resolutions because of the timing of the start of a new cycle. The beginning of the New Year signals a new beginning, a restart period with the advent of an official starter’s pistol going off (New Year’s Eve Firework Celebration) The energy is in the air, all individual is looking for a “ready-set GO! “from the announcer. So, why not ride the energy wave of this new cycle. Right?

Why does it go so wrong? According to U.S. News & World Report, the failure rate for New Year’s resolutions is said to be about 80 percent, and most lose their resolve by mid-February. A great example of a standard failed decision is to get in a gym and get in shape or lose weight! I’ve made this resolution several times and failed. The idea was to get in the way for the summertime so that I can flex on the beach for the ladies with my pre-shrunk extra-medium t-shirt. The following year I still possessed a “taffy” shaped body similar to a rolled clay man I used to make in early head start. Soon I became disillusioned about setting goals until I learned the art and science of practical goal setting.

First, understand what a resolution is. By definition, the term resolution (reza’looSH( )n/: is A firm decision to do or not to do something. By this definition, this means that the person has decided to resolve some issue or something which needs attention before the item becomes more challenging to change. Like my body by Taffy at the time, it needed some serious work. I had good intentions but couldn’t follow through. The top three reasons why most of us fail at keeping our goals are as follows.

The top four reasons why most resolutions fail.

1. The decision is too vague. A great example is, you wish to lose weight. Making an ambiguous decision like this is setting yourself up for a near future failure. The problem is that there are no real specifics behind such a promise to change things.

2. Negative perspective. How you frame something determines what type of mindset or you wish to draw the necessary energy to approach the change you want to make. Positive reframing can provide positive renewable energy instead of emotionally draining harmful sources of motivation. A great example of positive reframing would be the glass half empty or half full. It all depends on the observer’s life’s perspective. Are they optimistic or pessimistic?

3. What’s your “Why” for your under taking this goal? Many of us can draw energy from the so-called haters, but in most cases, it is very taxing and energy draining. Doing something to show up the “haters “in your life can become somewhat of a burden in time. Positive reframing plays a significant helpful role in achieving your goals

4. No estimated time for completion. Most unachieved goals have the common theme of no identified time this goal should reach. So, in many ways, it remains an ongoing process never genuinely attainable, or many have gotten side tracked by other things in its place. Having a realistic completion time is important because it keeps an individual focused on what needs to be promptly done.

The difference between goals and objectives are, a goal is a clear description of a specific destination or a long-term outcome a person or organization wish to achieve, within a year or more. A goal does not describe how to do something but rather how the results, in the end, should be. A goal is a singular, tangible, descriptive statement which is a stretch from the current state of being.

In comparison, an objective is a measure of the progress that is necessary to reach that destination. It should outline the steps to attain a specific goal. They define the essential actions which must be pursued as well as the particular amount of effort and what time. They are specific, measurable, time-bound, actionable, and realistic.

Now, the question is, what the benefits of using goals to get things accomplished are? According to Minor (2005), there are three core principles involved with goal setting, a). Goals motivate individuals to put forth the effort by setting a task to pursue the goal b). Goals motivate and help keep persisting in the required activities until they help achieve the goal, and c). Goals help drive induvial to stay focused on what they’re trying to make.

There is a whole theory that goes into a practical goal setting. According to Locke and Dr. Gary Latham (1990), “A Theory of Goal Setting and Task Performance,” in which five essential principles were fundamental in practical goal setting. These five practical principles are clarity, challenge, commitment, feedback, and task complexity.

Clarity- Be specific, coherent, and intelligible about what you wish to achieve.
Challenge-a goal should be challenging to inspire you more, as well as achievable.
Commitment- goals must be something which is agreed upon and should agree with what the award once completed should be
Feedback-provides a loop to allow for corrections if necessary or get clarity regarding completion of the task
Task Complexity- we all up for a good challenge but make something too complicated or daunting, then it will never get completed. The idea is to make sure you comprehend every nuance of the challenge

Locke’s research revealed that for goal setting to work, they need to be; achievable and measurable over time and have a clear specific, and precise outcome.

Setting S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) Goals can help you achieve a lot.

Specific- what needs to be achieved must be concisely described.

A good example, I plan to lose weight by eating healthy salads and attending the gym three times a week for 1 hour.
A bad example, I want to lose this belly fat.

Measurable- are based on metrics or benchmarks you can use to see are you on track for reaching this goal.

A good example is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I will work on the upper body for 1.5 hors and on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday I will work on lower body areas for 1.5 hours
Abad example is I plan to workout

Attainable-goals that are attainable are more likely to be achieved. Genuinely being aware of the workload agreed as well as the available resources (time, money, skills) is vital to practical goal setting.

A good example, I plan on losing 2.5 pounds per week by eating and working-out daily.
I plan on loosing 50lbs soon

Relevant – are the goals you wish to achieve related to real life perspectives.

A good example, I plan on reading a chapter a day from the Body Builder’s Bible to help me with my weight loss journey
A bad example, I plan to learn computer coding.

Time Bound- this aspect of goal setting will keep you accountable. Being specific with timely results will keep you on track for success

A good example, I plan on 8 to 10 pounds. In 8 to 9 weeks, using healthy eating and a strenuous work-out regimen.
A bad example, I pan on loosing this weight, soon.

There are some great goal setting tools today offered on many platforms. Some of these tools can be informal such as a hand written diary /journal which helps you to track your progress, as well as listing daily achievements. There are plenty of Apps for your mobile phone to track progress and remind you when certain activities or steps which need to be completed. Then finally join a Mastermind group to keep you focused on the task at hand. Of course, these are only a few tools you can use. Ill is sure to add links below to help you in your goal setting achievement track.

Personally, I try to stay away from New Year’s Resolutions and start from my current position. Of course I begin acting on my goals after I complete an assessment of what I want to achieve. Of course I came to trust myself in the process of goal setting after learning how to use these goal setting techniques and didn’t need to ride the start of the New year’s momentum wave any more. Now, I meditate on the challenge ahead, lay out step by step and then execute. Well, I wish you all Happy Holidays and much success with your goal setting and look forward to the future success stories!

Best Free Goal Setting Worksheets https://www.developgoodhabits.com/goal-setting-worksheet/

47 Goal Setting Exercises, Tools, & Games (Incl. PDF Worksheets) https://positivepsychology.com/goal-setting-exercises/

11 Goal-Setting Apps That Will Help Keep You On Track https://www.bustle.com/p/11-goal-setting-apps-that-will-help-keep-you-on-track-12961869

It Takes A Village: Using The Wraparound Care Model

December 2, 2019Community, Health, Personaljcorb2020@gmail.com

BY: James E Corbin II

Early November 2019, I had the opportunity of attending an interesting seminar/ training on the U of I campus involving wraparound -care teams, for which help/assistance maintains a consistent care model for individuals who may need it. This type of care system ensures care remains constant during a challenging moment that the individual may routinely experience as a result of their physical or mental challenges.

As an individual who is physical challenged, I can understand the need to have a system such as a wraparound -care system like this in place. I experienced this need to have a handful of helpful individuals around me when I was living in locations too far for immediate family members to reach if necessary. The concept is based on being a contributor to a needs a “circle” and not just looking for what a person can receive. The goal for a good wrap-around care system consisting of a relationship steep in reciprocity, not dependency. Here allow me to explain why I found this care method to be beneficial.

Since 2014, I have lived in locations that were far away from immediate family and friends. In short, I was pretty much on my own, believe me, it was not something I planned, but it just turned out that way. Therefore, I had to improvise and develop alternative care assistants who could help in my wellbeing. So, I always kept a keen eye open for positive well-rounded individuals of like mind and cautiously introduced myself. What I did next was sought out official care givers like doctors, nurses, and CNA and asked them to recommend any support groups or organizations that share similar challenges as myself.

Usually, professional care givers can recommend a few groups or name someone who may know someone with similar issues, and I follow the leads. Also, I used technology like social media (Facebook, Tweeter) and apps like Meetups to connect with other likeminded individuals. Once connected to amicable individuals who share like interest, I attempt to establish a somewhat reciprocal relationship. Usually, this involves making myself available for social outings and more.

Trust takes some time to build, and it has to be established on both sides as well. Therefore, the more casual contact I had; the more trust could be established. Soon I would work my way to work out a sort of “quid pro quo” situation and offer my services like occasional running some errands as my way giving back. Connecting with others in the community helped me mange through difficult challenges and maintain a system of steady care. At the time when I was undergoing my redemption of bonding and connecting, I had no name for it and looked at the process as creating a “network of trust,” which I can rely on in times of need. I had no idea I was utilizing many of the principles involved with the wraparound model. I share my experience to demonstrate how beneficial forming a care circle can be.

The old African motto of “It Takes A Village,” is also true to maintain health care. The Wrap Around Care model has its roots within a movement to change the nonfunctional methods of caring for children who suffered from severe mental disorders. It created as a response to what was not working for the children and their families. Whereas before, care was based on what the professional determined to be what was best and not looked at from a holistic perspective regarding values, beliefs, interest, and community concerns.

Also, there was a lack of resources within the community for the family to draw from if necessary. A few decades ago, family services were very scarce in certain communities, and as a result, many children were sent away too far away from facilities where family and community were not present. In contrast, wraparound programs were established to keep the families together and out of expensive group homes while achieving optimal effects.

Wraparound is a value based collaborative partnership program with roots in local imitative such as Kaleidoscope in Chicago. It is a holistic care system designed to put the individual in need at the center of focus. It is a culturally competent, individualized approach that involves incorporating family, friends, associates as well as health care providers, and other individuals within the community to form a care team to assist with comprehensive care. Success increases when the action plan reflects the perspectives of the family members or those who care for the individual. In short, voice and choice drive the process of actionable care.

With the wraparound method, the family or individual who needs service takes the lead in deciding on what type of care system administered. Team members work in unison to organize a set of visions and goals. Team members work together to implement an individual creative plan of action, which they monitor for effectiveness and make changes if necessary.

The basic ten principles (Burns and Goldman, 1999) of the wraparound model describe what elements must be available for a successful wraparound team.

Family voice and choice principle involve incorporating family perspectives, which are intentionally prioritized throughout all phases of the wraparound process. This principle ensures that the ones close to the individual have a “say-so” in the long-term care of an individual or family.
A team-based model is a principle consists of family, friends, caregivers involved with the wellness of the individual who needs care. These individuals work through formal and informal service relationships as well as community support activities. A team-based system consists of individuals who have the best interest at heart for the individual seeking care.
Natural support entails team members be extrapolated from the individual’s environment. The wraparound delivery method is a team-based effort. The action plan should reflect the natural sources involved in the care process. These sources can include family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, support members, and more. Usually, these different relationships bring value by incorporating a diversity of skill sets and other perspectives on the care process.
Collaboration efforts involve each team member work toward the successful implementation of the effective work plan. Again, the plan should reflect a conglomerate of team member efforts, mandates as well as resources. Each team member shares the responsibility of developing, implementing and monitoring the wraparound plan and make the necessary changes if needed. The team must be committed to the overall goals
Community based principle involves the family, and active community life is a key factor in the wellbeing of the individual receiving the intended care. Services and support strategies should be implemented within an accessible environment, and Inclusive environments help to promote integration into the home and community. Providing an accessible environment ensures that individuals receiving care should be able to access a full range of local services offered within the environment the individual lives. These activities should support positive development for the individual.
Culturally competent, meaning that values, beliefs, and cultural awareness must be present in a functional wraparound model. Team members must be aligned with cultural values and respect them to have successful collaboration, ensuring that team goals and expectations are achieved.
Individualize is based on each plan; strategies, support, and services are customized to ft the personal individual’s needs. Each plan is a series of tailored activities that reflects the family and care givers’ concepts of what care should methods need to be enacted, in addition to what are the most beneficial ending results for the individual. It entails heritage, traditions, and values as a source of strength to be built upon and added to the plan as an undergird structure for advancement.
Strength based means that the wraparound plan should help to build strength and competence to the team and individual alike. The team commitment to achieving goals must persist even when adverse situations arise. In the planning process, viewing failures are as learning moments for the team and individual to build and grow is extremely empowering.
The unconditional principle means when faced with a compromising situation, the wraparound team still accepts the induvial regardless of any setbacks. The objective is to stay the course of the plan until the wraparound plan is not needed or must be modified to meet new demands. Revisions are performed regularly until positive desired effects are acquired.
Outcome-based involves benchmarks, or measurements must be in place to identify progress or set-backs. Using metrics and tools to measure outcomes raises the rate of the successful care system to be in place. Setting goals is fine, but steps to acquire the goals must be acknowledged.

My personal opinion about the wraparound care system is one of admiration because the focus is on establishing functional relationships that help build key elements such as strength and independence. As a physically challenged individual who celebrates his independence, I think this system is a great tool to put in place so that I can maintain my current lifestyle. As I stated earlier, in can be put in place no matter what’s my location. Using a system like this takes care, planning, correctly assessing all available resources, as well as some legal restrictions. But most importantly is that its achievable when done correctly.

Remember, the key to developing a viable wraparound care system involves researched based drivers that focuses on providing optimal human care for the individual or family. If you or someone you know wish to get started using a wraparound care system, there are plenty of places to find help with outlining a care plan. The best place to start is with your professional care giver and the follow up with organizations like the National Wraparound Implementation Center (NWIC), which should be able to assist in locating other resources. Also, I provided a like below to a guide that you can share with your team and go over some of the basics. Remember, it takes a village mindset for this to be successful!

The National Wraparound Implementation Center https://www.nwic.org/

The Wraparound Process Users Guide https://nwi.pdx.edu/pdf/Wraparound_Family_Guide09-2010.pdf

Relaunching of My Blog

November 10, 2019Uncategorizedjcorb2020@gmail.com

By James E Corbin II

Hello everyone, I am relaunching my site faceallchalleneges.com to pick up where I left off but with more focus toward self-determination, self-healing, and self- awareness. If you noticed, the concept of ‘self” is a recurring theme with my blog. The reason being I believe that most change usually begins with the inner self, then works its way outward. Therefore, I choose to center the majority of my post concerning self as the focal point, naturally leading to empowerment. The concept is to move toward the healthiest and most determined position for the reader. Most bad decision-making stems from either lack of knowledge or a lack of concern. The goal is to empower the reader through education about a subject or topic to help with better decision making soon.

The types of articles I wish to produce, promote, and disseminate will be thoroughly researched, dissected and fully analyzed to the best of my effort before publishing. I plan to make the articles succinct and not too wordy or overuse the use of sesquipedalian (very long or multisyllabic) words. My goal is to try and educate my readers at a base level, and the audience fully engaged. I hope to inspire my readers to find out more information for their selves. Self-education is more productive and bears more fruit in the end. I aim to place the on the right track to do a more in-depth analysis of a topic. I hope to instill a consistent learning pattern for my readers.

I have three areas of general focus for my blog, individual self-improvement, family unit improvements, and community development engagement. I feel these three areas of focus are important for an individual’s comprehensive development. Self-improvement can include all aspects involving individual development like mental, physical, or spiritual. Family-focused improvement articles can include relationship building, family-centered care improvements, practice models, and much more. Community enhancements, can range from locating resources within the community, participation within groups of likeminded individuals, or starting a grassroots movement to change any unwanted policy.

Again, the idea behind Faceallchallenges.com is to empower, enlighten, and reenergize the reader to live up to his or her full potential and not let them allow their shortcomings to be what defines them. I am a prime example of not allowing paraplegia to determine my capabilities. Only I can do that if I choose to, and even then, it’s on a case by case basis. Thank you, and I look forward to some interesting engagements.

The Negative Effects Stress Can Have on an Already Damaged Body

June 25, 2015Differently-Able, Health, Stressjcorb2020@gmail.com

Suddenly experiencing physical trauma which results in a physical disability can be extremely detrimental to anyone going through it at the time. The experience of suffering such a shocking life altering event of a physical impairment can have negative implementations that is distributed simultaneously across all planes of human existence. The key areas affected by such a tragedy range from the emotional being, the mental state, and especially, within the physical facets. The entire experience can be exceedingly depressing to say the least, manifesting a state of chronic stress of existence. This nerve-wracking state of being can hinder the body’s ability to heal properly and compound an already physically damaged body, incurring even further injury from within via stress. Personally I have experienced the negative effects of stress and how it compounds an already abysmal situation.

Chronic-stress and the brain- Although researchers are just understanding how stress can trigger long lasting changes within the brain they are well aware of the after affects. For instance according to neuroscientist at University of California, Berkley which learned that chronic— brain structural changes as well as brain functionality are affected by chronic stress. As a result the body produces stress hormones such as cortisol whenever it finds itself in a taxing situations. Long term effects of being exposed to these stress hormones can lead to a gamut of mood maladies like; anxiety, learning disorders, and, PTSD (Post traumatic stress disorder).

Long term exposure to the condition of chronic stress can have physiological brain structural changes too. The volume of grey matter versus white matter are altered as well as connectivity to the brain’s key emotional center the ‘amygdala.’ The effects of stress can yield an over manufacturing of myelin-production cells with fewer neuron connection than usual (Bergland, 2014). Cortisol can have a domino effect upon stem cell development where it has the ability to “flip a switch in stem cells which inhibits connections to the prefrontal cortex,” which establishes the foundation for anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The stress hormone can also hard-wire pathways between the hippocampus (where short term and long term memories are consolidates) and amygdala (Bergland, 2014).

Physical changes caused by chronic stress– The body undergoes certain physiological changes as well from experiencing chronic stress factors such as triggering the release of stress hormones like adrenalin and glucocorticoids which can have detrimental health related issues on the body. Issues ranging from; cardio vascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, digestive system disorders, just to name a few. A continuous release of stress hormones can suppressed the immune system making the body more susceptible to infections diseases as well as causing disruption to the female menstrual cycle, and in men contributing to erectile dysfunctions. Within children high levels of stress hormone production can actually suppress growth hormones resulting in dwarfism. This syndrome in kids caused by high levels of stress is known as “stress dwarfism” (Schwartz, et al., 2007)

Regulating the effects of stress is critical in order to live a healthy life. Especially for individuals as myself who have been inflicted with a life changing disability. Much of the effects of stress can be controlled just by a little planning ahead or scheduled maintenance/up keep on commonly performed activates. In order to get control of the negative effects experienced by chronic stress I was forced to change my life style and become more proactive toward mundane undertakings. Everything within my life post-disabling incident now moves on a clock for me, all the way down to bathroom times. Managing these events has greatly reduced stress and allowing me to function as a normal person again.

Other proactive measures of stress control I practice involves creating a “hit list” at night of things which I need to take care within the immediate future and issues that will be coming up later, or in the further future which will demand my attention as well. The whole day I usually work through the list scratching off things completed. This process gives me a sense of accomplishment and within the long term scheme of things put me closer to obtaining life goals and objectives This takes a lot of stress off of me while allowing me to focus my energy forward. The objective is to lessen stress in our everyday life because our lives are simply becoming more technical. Also practicing these techniques bring a cyclical awareness of common life issues leaving us better prepared to face life challenges. I believe how we deal with stress now is going to determine the quality of our lives in the futures. And for those individuals such as myself who are suffer from a traumatic incident resulting in a disability need to become conscious of the effects of chronic stress. As well as those suffering from chronic diseases such as lupus, cancer, or multiple sclerosis, truly need to maintain low stress levels in order to allow the body to properly heal the best it can and not aggravate their condition further.

By; J. E. Corbin II

References:

Bergland, C. (2014). Chronic Stress Can Damage Brain Structure and Connectivity: Chronic Stress and high Levels of cortisol create long-lasting brain changes. Retrieved from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201402/chronic-stress-can-damage-brain-structure-and-connectivity

Schwartz, M., Sapolsky R., (2007). Discusses physiological effects of stress: We’ve evolved to be smart enough to make ourselves sick. Retrieved from: http://news.stanford.edu/news/2007/march7/sapolskysr-030707.html

The Big Move- Managing Stressful Events

May 22, 2015Health, Inspirational, Stressjcorb2020@gmail.com

Moving is a very stressful act to perform, and planning a move to a different state and city can be somewhat arduous especially for a differently- abled person such as myself. The task of moving could be extremely taxing and rewarding at the same time. Relocating with a disability means uprooting and trying to reestablish a routine in order to function normally. Routines such as; working out, diet, eating schedules, sleeping patterns and the most critical, bathroom schedules. Yes, my whole world is turned top-side over when it’s moving time. Just about everything in my somewhat normal life is interrupted and has to be refigured in its entirety. As you can see the event of moving can be extremely stressful in its totality. How I prepare for such a change is by becoming proactive toward the situation and be sure not to procrastinate. I also prepare myself mentally by meditating on steps that I need to execute in order to be effective. I began preparing by having necessary items set aside for the duration of the move. I do all this prepping in order to keep cortisol (stress hormone) levels low because once they are in high levels in the body, the mind becomes frustrated and functions poorly. The importance of controlling stress in our lives is critical and I felt that the issues of stress should be further elaborated on in order to get a more define understanding of the matter. That’s why I plan on dedicating these next few post on the topic of stress regulating in our lives. .

What is stress? To put it simply stress is the body’s way of responding to strenuous mandates (Mills, et al., 2015). Stress is the primary factor for the six leading causes of death; heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide. Therefore I thought it would be a great time to address it and understand what stress is in order to lessen the effects it has upon the body. Believe it or not, all stress isn’t bad for you. In fact the good stress (Eustress) can help build a stronger body, mind and, spirit. Whereas bad stress (Distress) can have a negative effect on the body, mind, and spirit. But how do you know the difference between good stress and bad stress? A few excellent examples of good stress (Eustress) factors and bad (distress) stress factors consists of the following:

Good (Eustress stress);

Moving to a new location
Marriage
Buying a new home
Learning a new hobby
Furthering education
Taking a vacation
Starting a new job

Bad (Distress) stress;

Being evicted / forced to move
Death of a close relative or friend
Divorce / break-up
Bankruptcy / Money issues
Legal Problems
Injury / Illness
Unemployment

Common internally caused sources of distress include:

“Fears: (e.g., fears of flying, heights, public speaking, chatting with strangers at a party)
Repetitive Thought Patterns:

“Worrying about future events (e.g., waiting for medical test results or job restructuring). Unrealistic, perfectionist expectations (Mills et al., 2015).”

In short stress can either make us or break us. The difference is whether we have control over the stressing factor or does it commands us. Also it how it is perceived by the individual expecting the stressful event. Or how we allow it to be determined. The effects of good stress can help build excitement, focuses energy and improve performance. Whereas the long term effects of bad (distress) can have detrimental effects on the body and in extended instances may even cause death. By planning ahead I’ve learned how to manage stress. Only when I procrastinate is when stress seems to have a negative effect on my body. Personally I see this move as something exciting and new, almost as if I was on a voyage to discover a new world. Offering new opportunity to expand and create. In a sense I embrace the challenge of change and look forward to new experiences in a new location. In the end life is all about growth and managing stress is key to growing proficiently.

J. E. Corbin

References:

Mills, H., Reiss, N., Donbeck, M., (2015) Types of Stressors (Eustress vs. Distress) Retrieved from; http://www.sevencounties.org/poc/view_doc.

Alvin Laws Differently-Able

April 29, 2015Differently-Able, Inspirationaljcorb2020@gmail.com

In early March, 2015 I had a chance to attend a National Speaker Association presentation in Dallas, TX with a unique human being, Mr. Alvin Laws. What makes him unique is how he does not allow his differently-able abilities to define him or limit his capacities and lifestyle. You see Alvin’s disability was a result of a drug called thalidomide and the children of the mothers who took this drug were born with all sort of defects. In Alvin’s case he was born without any arms and as a consequence he had to survive in a world which had deemed him a pariah with a hopeless future.

He tells a riveting story about the difficulties he faced in his life being born without any arms. The challenges he faced existing in a world were arms and hands were necessary to survive, but somehow he manage to train his brain to find an alternative way to complete everyday task. Being giving up for adoption at birth, Alvin’s foster-mom Hilda, realized at early infancy his ability to adapt when she looked in and witnessed Alvin holding his baby bottle using only his feet. In amazement she called to her husband to witness this extraordinary feat (pun attended lol). His mom never allowed him to feel sorry for himself and assigned him daily choirs ranging from vacuuming to washing the dishes—with his feet!I was proud to give him a true “sole-Brother” hand shake at the end of his presentation.

Today Alvin does everything for himself from dressing to driving an automobile he does not allow anything to hold him back. Alvin takes doing things a step further by being able to play musical instruments such as the trombone, drums, and keyboard—-with his feet! He executes an impressive drum roll that any average drummer with two arms would find it very difficult to do. And his keyboarding skills are equivalent to a cool jazz player in a smoky jazz joint in Harlem, NY. His presence just goes to show us that the human mind combined with will and faith can reach many heights.

Although we are amazed when an individual such as Alvin comes along and astonishes us with what seems impossible, he only reminds us of qualities which formulate us as human beings like creativity and determination. [W]e are some of the frailest creatures on the planet physically, but our cunningness and resourcefulness sets us apart in the animal kingdom. People like Alvin Law reminds us that just about all obstacles we encounter can be altered or adapted in alternative ways. And that ingenuity with determination can make the impossible, very possible. Alvin Law truly embodies the concept of being differently-able.

Thanks Alvin for sharing your energy/spirit, from one Sole-Brother to another keep doing you’re your doing…….raising the consciousness!

Change

J. E. Corbin

Lack of Job Opportunities for the Disabled!

April 9, 2015Uncategorizedjcorb2020@gmail.com

On the week of February 19, 2015 I took the liberty to attend the Dallas Abilities Job Expo, at the Hyatt Regencies suites. The event was advertised as a huge gathering of more than 100 employers looking to meet qualified job candidates who had a disability, as well as the opportunity to network with other people who shared similar experiences within the Dallas, TX, area. Once I arrived at the event I made my way through the corridor after signing in. I expected to see a complementary amount of companies looking to participate in the event as advertised but found less otherwise. I did not find any companies within the non-for profit sector there at the time, which is my particular field of study and interest. Also, I did not see many individuals using assistive-technology like a walker or wheel-chair other than myself during my brief visit. Although the job scene at the expo looked bleak with very few employer participants I decided to stay and make rounds to see what other employment opportunities were being offered at the time and by which companies. This took just about a solid half-hour and that was mostly from me talking extensively to the company’s representatives who gave excellent job leads pertaining to the positions which they were hiring for at the time of the expo.

I applaud the efforts of the event coordinator and companies who participated in the Dallas ability Job Expo, it was very well organized and crafted to present a welcoming atmosphere especially for individuals such as myself who use a wheelchair or walker. My only regret is that more companies would have partake in such events and help to open up more opportunity for the disabled. Being considered handicapped does not mean we do not have anything to offer towards a company’s growth and development. Sadly to say this lack of participation on the part of companies seem to be a reoccurring theme at a lot of these type of job expos for the disabled. I’m not sure who or what is the blame in terms of prejudice or discrimination on the part of company’s officers or human resource department but I am sure that bringing more awareness to the situation is the key to changing the lack of employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

-James C.

Hello world!

March 27, 2015Uncategorizedjcorb2020@gmail.com

I started this blog to help people understand some of the challenges that come with having a disability. I feel that sharing these challenges may help someone with or without a disability able to face or understand obstacles within their own lives. We all possess shortcomings or some sort of disability, it’s just that some of our frailties are more or less visible than others. Mine you can see upon first impression, but I don’t allow it to define me nor hold me back when it comes to doing what’s necessary. I hope you find it helpful and please feel free to comment or ask any questions. I don’t shy from controversial issues. Also prior to my incident I come from a public school background where I had to developed a thick skin to counter ridicule and teasing((thank you bullies, lol). Plus I don’t take offense to curiosity, but welcome the inquisitive mind that seeks answers as myself.